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UNIVERSITY OF
ILLINOIS LIBRARY
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COMBINED HISTORY
RANDOLPH, MONROE® PERRY
COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
DESCRIPTIVE OF THEIR SCENERY
^iojrapl^ital ^IvbIi^bb ofj soma t\ {\m |}romm$nl Men anit mon^grs.
PUBLISHED BY
J. L. Mcdonough & co.,
PHILAOEI.PHIA.
CORRESPONDING OFFICE, EDWARDSVILLE, ILL.
1883. m^-
C'753
PREFACE
"T^HE publishers desire to return their sincere thanks
to those who have aided in making this ivork
thorough and complete. For the incidents relative to
the early settlement of these counties, we are indebted
to a feiv early pioneers, who have seen a wild fron-
tier country develop into a 'wealthy and populous com-
munity. For other facts zoe are under obligations to
a class of intelligent men, 'who, amid the ordinary
pursuits of life, have taken pains to thoroughly in-
form themselves on the resources of their county.
Among those 'who have specially contributed to the
eoinplctencss of this history, are Samuel Jlfansker,
Hugh Mathews, John .Sivawwick, Antoine Blais, Ed-
inond Menard, the sei'cral jnenihers of the O'Hara
family, E H. Lciuen, W. S. D Smith, the Holmes
family, W. K. Murphy, John Chestniit'wood, J. H. Wilson,
Joseph ]\\ Drury, William and John F. Schuchcrt.
We also acknoivledge our obligations to the 'writings of
Governor Reynohh, Rev. John M. Peck, Captain Pit.
man, of the English army, also the American State
papers and the 'writings of the Jesuit Fathers. Many
old and valuable manuscripts, both in the French
and English languages, ha'ce been examined. These
rare papers ha've made plain and intelligible some
of the earliest incidents and anecdotes pertaining to
this region of the state.
The articles on the common schools have been pre-
pared by gentlemen thoroughly acquainted with their
subject, 'wliose names appear at the head of the sketches
in the body of the 'work. Among the chapters most
fruitful in interest to a great number of our readers,
'will be found those 'which treat of the early history
of the churches. Many persons arc now living 'whose
fathers and grandfathers, in the humble log cabin,
'which 'was then the only house of 'worship, assisted
in founding organizations 'which ha-ce been of the
greatest good to subsequent generations. To the clergy-
men of the different denominations, and to many of
the older members of these societies, 'we arc indebted
for much 'valuable information. The editors of the
several newspapers ha've also rendered assistance in
that prompt and eheeiful manner so characteristic of
the journalistic profession.
We have endea'oored, 'with all diligence and care-
fulness, to make the best of the material at our
command. The facts 'were gathered from a hundred
different sources, and depend largely, not on exact
written records, but on the uncertain and conflicting
recollections of different indi'oiduals ! We lia've tried
to preser'oe the incidents of pioneer history, to aecuratc-
Iv present the natural features and material resources
of this portion of the state, and to gather the facts
likely to be of most interest to our present readers,
and of greatest importance to coining generations.
If our readers iiill take into consideration the diffi-
culties of the task, 'we feel assured of a favorable
'verdict on our undertaking.
The Publishers.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
COUNTY HISTORY.
CHAPTER I.
A Brief Sketch of the North- Vv est
Territory.
Geographical Position, 9 ; Early Explora-
tions, 9 ; Discovery of the Ohio, 15 ;
English Explorations and Settle-
ments. 16 ; American Settlements, 22 ;
Division of the North- West Territory,
23 ; Present Cnndition of the North-
West, 24 9-25
CHAPTER II.
Brief Histokicil Sketch of Illisois.
French Possessions, 25 ; The first Settle-
ments in Illinois, 26; Founding of
Kaskaskia, 27 ; As a part of Louisi-
ana, 27 ; Fort Chartres, 28 ; Under
French rule, 29; Character of the Early
French Settlers, 30; A Po.ssession of
Great Britain, 30 ; Conquest by Clark,
32 ; The " Compact of 1787," 32 ; Land
Tenures, 34 ; Physical Features of the
State, 35 ; Progress and Development,
35; Material Resources of the State,
36 ; Annual Products, 36 ; The War
Record, 36 ; Civil Government, 39 ;
Territorial and State Officers, 40 ; Mis-
cellaneous Information 25—43
CHAPTER III.
GEOQRAPHy, .\griculti;r.4.l Resources and
Railroad Facilities.
Randolph Coustt,-46 ; Monroe Countv,
47 ; Perry Cousty, 48 ; Transpor-
tation facilities, 49; St Louis and
Cairo Short Line Railroad, 50 ; St.
Louis and Cairo. 51 ; Wabash, Chester
and Western, 51 ; St. Louis Coal
Road, 51 ; Illinois Central, 52; Rail-
road Lands.'53 10-53
CHAPTER IV.
Geology.
General Stialum. 53; Randolph County,
54 ; Coal Measures, 54 ; Chester Lime-
stone, 55 ; Economical Geology, 55 ;
Monroe County, 56; Perry County.
57 53-58
CHAPTER V.
Flora.
List of Native Woody Plants, Grasses,
etc., etc 58-59
CHAPTER VI.
Fauna.
Treating of the Various Families of Ani-
mals and Birds that have existed in
these counties 59-62
CHAPTER VII.
Pioneer Sbttleme.n'ts.
Randolph County, 62; The French Set-
tlers, 62; Character of the Early
French Settlers, 63 ; American Immi-
gration, 64; American Population in
1800, 67 ; Subsequent Settlements,
67; E.irly Mills, 75 ; Overflows of the
Mississippi, 75; Monroe County, 75;
Indian Hostilities, 78; Early Mills,
82; Destructive Hurricane, 82 ; Perry
County, 83; Manners and Customs
of the American Pioneers, 86. . . 62--89
CHAPTER VIII,
Civil History.
Randolph County from 1778 to 1818,
89 ; License for trade, 92 ; Letters to
the Court of Kaska.skia, 92 ; Kahokia
Fund (No. 1.) 93; Warrant for Exe-
cution. 94 ; Todd's Embargo, 95 ;
James Moore's Naturalization, 96;
Land Tenure, 97; Extract from assess-
page
ment of 1808, 98; Government of
County in Territorial Times, 100 ;
Scraps from Records of the Period
1795 to 1809, 101 ; 1809 to 1819, 102 ;
List of Township Officers 1809, 103 ;
Proceedings in Courts of Justice, Ter-
ritorial Laws. 104 ; Shadrach Bond
and Rice Jones' Duel, 105 ; Dunlap —
Jones Murder, 105 ; Another Murder
Case, 105; Probate Court 1809, 106;
Estates under Administration from
1809 to 1818, 106 ; Slavery in Ran-
dolph County, 107; Manumission in
1760, 108 ; A Negro Child set Free,
109; Public Buildings, 111; Early
Marriages. 112; Randolph represented
in Territorial Legislature, 1795 to
1818, 112; Territorial Officers, 113;
Randolph County, 1818 to 1883, 113;
Census 1825. ; Heads of Families,
115; County Finances, 1819 to 1844,
lis ; Change of County Seat to Ches-
ter, 119; Financial Condition of the
County, September Ist, 1882, 122 ;
List of county Officers, 121-127. . 89-127
Mo.N-ROE County (from 1816 to 1882), 127;
County Government, 129 ; List of
Tax-payers in 1816, 132 ; Emancipa-
tion Papers, 133 ; Tenure of Lands,
134; Lands Entered, 135; Early
Transfers of Real Estate, 136; First
Road Petitions and names of Monroe
county Pioneers, 137 ; Early Mar-
riages, 139 ; Towns and Villages prior
to 1820, 140 ; Contracts for first Public
Buildings, 141 ; Prairie Du Long, 144 ;
Circuit Courts, 1817 to 1848, 146;
Challenge to Fight a Duel, 148; Mur-
ders, 148 ; Naturalization, 148 ; In
General Assembly from 1818 to 1848 —
1883, 149 ; Precincts, March, 1875,
155 ; Statistics. 1881-'82. 1.56; Mur-
der and Execution. 1.56 , In General
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
Assembly 1848 to '84, State Offices
and Congress, Officers of county, 159.
Perry Cockty, 161 ; First License, 164 ;
First session of Circuit Court, 1 64 ;
First Road Districts and Road Offi-
cers, 1G5 ; Proceedings in Relation to
Establishing the County Seat, 165;
First Officers, 166 ; First Fiscal State-
ment, 167 ; First Probate Court, 167 ;
Petition for Redress, 168 ; First Gen-
eral Election, 168 ; First Bridge, 169;
First Court House, 169 ; Second Court
House-Remonstrance against build-
ing it, 170; Third Court House, 170;
Present Court House, 171 ; First and
Present Jail, 171 ; Almshouse, 173 ;
Circuit Court, 173; First Murder
Trial — Execution of Vaughn, 174 ;
Statistics, 175 ; Subscription to Rail-
roads, 177 ; Saline and Swamp Lands,
177 ; Officers, 17S 89-180
CHAPTER IX.
The Bench and B.vr.
B.^NTOLPH CoL-XTV, ISO; Former mem-
bers of the Bar, 182 ; Present Mem-
bers, 185; Monroe County, For-
mer Members of the Bar, 186 ;
Present Members, 187; Perky County,
18S ; Non-Resident Lawyers, 190 ;
Former and Present Members, 191.180-193
CHAPTER X.
The Press.
R.ixnoLrn County. — First Newspaper in
Illinois, 193. Subsequent Newspa-
pers—Monroe COUNTY, 198, Perry
County, 199 193-201
CHAPTER XL
Patriotism.
Early French, Conquest by Clark, 201 ;
War of 1812, 203 ; Soldiers in Black
Hawk and Mexican Wars, 204 ; Re-
bellion, 207 ; Muster Roll of all the
Soldiers who enlisted from Randolph,
Monroe and Perry counties . . . 201-231
CHAPTER XII.
Common Schools.
Randolph county, 231 ; Monroe county,
237 , Perry county, 238 231-242
CHAPTER XIII.
EeCLE.SIASTICAL.
Randolph County.— Reformed Presbyte-
rian, 243 ; Evangelical Lutheran, 249 ;
Catholic, 254 ; Presbyterian, 257 ;
Christian, 258; St. Mark's Parish,
259'; Freewill Baptist, 259 (Randolph
and Perry counties) ; German M. E.,
260. Monkoe County. — Concord
Presbyterian, 261 ; Methodist, 261 ;
German Evangelical, 262 ; Baptist,
263 ; Catholic, 263. Perry County.
—Christian, 265 ; Presbyterian, 266 ;
Baptist, 267 ; Methodist, 278 ; Ger-
man Evangelical, 279 ; Holy Catho-
lic, 280 ; United Presbyterian (Ran-
dolph and Perry), 281 243-281
BIOGRAPHIES.
Adair, Captain William 431
Anderson, J. B 392
Anderson, R. B 351
Angerer, Hon. John T 453
Ashwood and Marlow 372
Beem, John T 445
Bickelhaupt, Peter 327
Blais, Antoine 379
Blakeslee, A. J 442
Boldt, Dr. H. M 312
Boyd, Hon. John 346
Boyd, Thomas 350
Breese, William M 364
Brey, Paul C 321
Burch, J. G 311
Burbank, Hiram L 441
Campbell Bros 393
Campbell, William A 302
Canniff, James F 325
Crozier, Dr. William J 419
Curlee, Charles W. and Albert N 441
Curlee, Joseph B 366
Davis, Richard M 358
Derousae, Louis 297
Derouase, Louis J. Jr 309
Detrich, J. E 390
Dudenbostel, Louis 427
Devine, John 296
Dyer, Dr. L 443
Edwards, Captain M. C 357
Elliott, James C 430
Eld, William 327
Fairchild, W. S 402
Frank, John B 461
Gerlach, Daniel 391
P.\GE
Gerlach, John D. . • • 295
Gladson, William E 343
Gordon, Abram G 302
Goddard, Reuben J 394
Goodman, J. William 398
Gordon, Rev. George A 426
Gordon, Rev. H. S 426
Grant William H 419
Guker, Frederick, (deceased.) 405
Hamilton, P. P 433
Hammack, Lewis 352
Hartmann, Christian F 320
Hawthorne, J. C 394
Heape, Hon. Lysias 363
Hilyard, W. H 326
Holbrook, J. C 298
Hoener, Hon. Ambrose 329
Holmes, Joseph B 290
Holmes, William M 302
Holt, Nelson 364
Horner, H. C 302
Janson, Hon. John 320
Jahn, George E 329
Kane, Louis M, 349
Koenigsmark, Thomas 455
Laurence, M. B 441
Lee, A. H 3S0
Lemen Edwin H 340
Malone, James M 284
Mansker, Samuel 469
Matlack and Wassell 301
Mathews, Hugh 411
McBride, John T 300
McCandless, W. L 359
McFie, John R 373
McKenzie, William R 294
Menard, Edmond 310
Metzger, Charles 327
Michan, John 394
Murphy, William K 344
Murphy, William P 393
O'Hara, Henry 462
Pautler, Joseph 418
Payne, Thomas J 323
Penny, James J. . • 343
Penwarden, Thomas F 360
Pickett, James 428
Pollock, J. T 299
Pyatt, Hon. John W 356
Ragland, J. K. P 343
Richards, Charles P 439
Rickert, J. W 322
Riess, George L 404
Roe, Charles H 355
Rose, William, M. D 4.55
TABLE OF CONTENTS.
PAGE
Rothstein, Dr. Hugo 327
Bushing, Evan B 353
Sauer, Nicholas 419
SchlierhoU, Charles A. M 328
Schuchert, John F 293
Schuchert, William 292
Scott, Henry P ^-14
Swanwick, John *ll
Smith, W. S. D 348
Thiea, John H 428
Thompson, Captain R. Q 354
Thum, Jacob 458
Ward, John B 440
Watt, James 41U
Wheatley, B. W. S 445
Wheeler, Charles M 312
Wiesenborn, John 324
Williams, Frederick 3fi6
Williams, John S, M. D 305
Wilson, J. H 454
Wilson, Warren N 301
Winthrop, Hon. Charles E R 3H4
Wisely Brotliers 372
PRECINCT HISTORIES.
PAGE.
Baldwin 405
Beaucoup 472
Blair 463
Bluff 421
Breemen 465
Brcwerville 374
Central 420
Chester 284
Columbia 449
Coulterville 369
Cutler 446
Du Quoin 433
Evansville 415
Florence 312
Grand Cote 429
Harrisouville 412
Kaskaskia 303
Mitchie 395
Moredock 333
New Design 330
New Hanover 447
Paradise .... 3(i7
Pinckneyville 335
Prairie du Long 456
Prairie du Rocher 375
Red Bud 398
Renault 382
I'AliE
Rockwocii 467
Ruma 459
South Western 432
Sparta 384
Steele's Mills 423
Tamaroa 3()0
Tilden 407
Waterloo 314
Wine HiU 470
PORTRAITS.
Anderson, J. B 392
Anderson, Marj' 392
.'Anderson, R. B 3.")1
Blai.s, Antoine 379
Blakeslee, A. J 442
Brey, Paul C 321
Burch, J. G :!11
Canniff, James F 32:i
Derousse, Louis 297
Detrich, J. E 390
Devine, John 296
Dudenbostel, Louis 427
Gerlach, Daniel 391
Gerlach, John D 295
Hamilton, P. P 438
Hilyard, W. 11 326
Holbrook, J. C 298
Holmes, Joseph B 290
Lee, A. H 380
Lemen, Edwin H. and Wife 340
Mansker, Samuel 469
Mathews, Hugh 411
Mathews, Jane M 411
McBride, John T 300
McCandless, W. L 359
McFie, John B 373
McKenzie, William B 294
Menard, Edmund 310
Murphy, William K 344
O'Hara, Henry 402
Payne, Thomas J 323
Pautler, Joseph 118
Pollock, J. T 299
Bickert, J. W 322
Rieas, George L 404
Roe, Charles H 355
Rushing, Evan B 353
Schlierholz, Charles A. M 328
Schuchert, John F 293
Schuchert, William 292
Scott, Henry P 444
Smith, W. S. D 348
Sprigg, James D 403
Swanwick, John 291
Watt, James 410
Ward, John B 440
Wiesenborn, John 324
Wilson. J. II 454
ILLUSTRATIONS.
-Anchor Flouring Mills Facing 446
Been, E. M Facing 406
Boekholf, S Facing 400
Brickey and Aubuihon, . . Between 396--397
Brown, Charles Facing 406
Cape Hotel Facing 424
Catholic Church Facing .308
Creagau, Thomas Facing 460
Crisler, J. M Facing 308
Deroiisse, Mrs. M K Facing 296
Eberman, Isaac Facing 332
Evang. St. Pauls Church, Waterloo, Facing 320
Evansville Catholic Cliurch 460
Fults, Christopher Facing 393
Gardner Roller Mills Facing 448
Goodman, J. W Facing 41ii
Grann^-niann, Louis Facing 446
Gant, Thomas Facing 304
Knapp, P. C Facing 360
Lemen, E. H F-acing 342
Livingstone, Dr. G. P Facing 416
McKenzie, Dr. Williiuii R Facing :'j01
Maus, Philipp A Facing 384
Map Facing 9
Milligan, William H Facing 336
Meredith, Isaac store and residence, Facing 284
Oldendoriih Wagon Factory, . . . Facing 436
Old Log School-house and Puncheon
Bench Facing 232
Payne, Thomas J Facing 448
Penitentiary Facing 124
Public BuiIdings,(Randolph County,) Fac. 120
Public Buildings, (Monroe County,) Facing 152
Public Buildings, (Perry County,) . Facing 172
Pyatt, 1. J Facing 356
Roussel, F. L Facing 296
Schuchert, William Facing 284
Schuchert, John F Facing 288
Soukup, W Facing 350
" The Boots Place," Facing 360
Winklemann, Henry Facing 284
Wilson, J. H • • . . Facing 455
White, John Facing 432
Amendments to Constitution of U. S , . . 509
Constitution of Illinois 493
Constitution of United States ,506
Declaration of Independence 505
Partial List of Patrons 475
HISTORY
RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
CHAPTER I.
A BRIEF SKETCH OF THE SOr/TILWEST TEREITOUY.
GKOGRAPHIL'AL POSITION.
iN 1784 the North Western Territory was
ceded to the United States by Virginia.
It embraced only tlic territory lying be-
tween the Ohio and Mississippi rivers;
and north, to the northern limits of the
United States. It coincided with the area
now embraced in the states of" Wisconsin,
Illinois, Michigan, Indiana, O'aio, and
that portion of Minnesota lyir.g en the
east side of the Mississippi river. On the first day of March,
1784, Thomas Jefferson, Samuel Hardy, Arthur Lee, and
James Monroe, delegates in Congress on the part of Vir-
ginia, executed a deed of cession, by which they transferred
to the United States, on certain conditions, all right, title
and claim of Virginia to the country known as the Korth-
western Territory. But by the purchase of Louisiana in
180.3, the western boundary of the United States was ex-
tended to the Rocky Mountains and the Northern Pacific
Ocean. It includes an area of 1,887,850 square miles,
being greater than the united areas of the Middle and
Southern states, including Texas. Out of this magnificent
territory have been erected eleven sovereign states and eight
territories, with an aggregate population at the present time
of 13,000,000 inhabitants, or nearly one-third of the entire
population of the United States.
Its rivers are the largest on the continent, flowing thous-
ands of miles through its rich alluvial valleys and broad,
fertile prairies.
Its lakes are fresh-water seas, upon whose bosom floats
the commerce of many states. Its far-stretching prairies
have more acres that are arable and productive than any
other area of like extent on the globe.
For the last quarter of a century the increase of popula-
tion and wcakh in the north-west has been about as three to
one in any other portion of the United States.
EARLY EXI'LORATIOSS.
In the year 1512, on Easter Sunday, the Spanish name
for which is Pa.scua Florida,* Juan Ponce de Leon, an old
comrade of Columbus, discovered the coast of the American
continent, near St. Augustine, and in honor of the day and
of the blossoms which covered the trees along the shore,
named the new-found country Florida. Juan had been led
to undertake the discovery of strange lands partly by the
hope of finding endless stores of gold, and partly by the
wish to reach a fountain that was said to exist deep within
the forests of North America, which possessed the power of
renovating the life of those wlio drank of or bathed in its
waters. He was made governor of the region he had visited
but circumstances prevented his return tliither until 1-521 ;
and then he went only to meet death at the hands of the
Indians.
In the meantime, in 1.51G, a Spanish sea-captain, Diego
Miruelo, had visited the coast first reached by Ponce de
Leon, and in his barters with the natives had received con-
siderable quantities of gold, with which he returned home
and spread abroad new stories vf the wealth hidden in the
interior.
Ten years, however, passed before Pamph'do de Narvaez
undertook to prosecute the examination of the lands north
of the Gulf of ]\Iexico. Narvaez was excited to action by
the late astoni.'^hing success of the conqueror of Montezuma,
but he found the gold for which he sought constantly flying
before him; each tribe of Indians referred him to those
living farther in the interior. And from tribe to tribe he
and his companions wandered. They suffered untold priva-
tions in the swamps and forests ; and out of three hundred
followers only four or five at length reached Mexico. And
still these disappointed wanderers persisted in their original
fancy, that Florida was as wealthy as Mexico or Peru.
*Pascutn, the old English "Fash" or Passover; " Pascua Florida"
is the " Holvdav of Flowers."
10
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Among those ^vho had faith in that report was Ferdinand
de Soto, who had been with Pizarro in the conquests of Peru.
He asked and obtained leave of the King of Spain to con-
quer Florida at his own cost. It was given in the year 1538.
With a brilliant and noble baud of followers he left Europe
and in May, 1538, after a stay in Cuba, anchored his vessels
near the coast of the Peninsula of Florida, in the bay of
S])iritu Santa, or Tampa bay.
De Soto entered upon his march into the interior with a
determination to succeed. From June till November of
1539, the Spaniards toiled along until they reached the
neighborhood of Appalachee bay. During the next season,
1540, they followed the course suggested by the Florida
Indians, who wished them out of their country, and going
to the north-east, crossed the rivers and climbed the moun-
tains of Georgia. De Soto was a stern, severe man, and
none dared to murmur. De Soto passed the winter with his
little baud near the Yazoo. In April, 1541, the resolute
Spaniard set forward, and upon the first of May reached
the banks of the great river of the West, not far from the
35th parallel of latitude.*
A month was spent in preparing barges to convey the
horses, many of which still lived, across the rapid stream.
Having successfully passed it, the explorers pursued their
way northward, into the neighborhood of New Madrid ;
then turning westward again, marched more than two hun-
dred miles from the Mississippi to the highlands of White
river; and still no gold, no gems, no cities — only bare prai-
ries, and tangled forests, and deep morasses To the south
again they toiled on, and passed their third winter of wander-
ing upon the Washita. In the following spring (1542), De
Soto, weary with hope long deferred, descended the Washita
to its junction with the Mississippi. He heard, when he
reached the mighty stream of the west, that its lower portion
flowed through endless and uninhabitable swamps.
The news sank deep into the stout heart of the disap-
puinted warrior. His health yielded to the contests of his
mind and the influence of the climate. He appointed a
successor, and on the 21st of May died. His body was sunk
in the stream of the Mississippi. Deprived of their ener-
getic leader, the Spaniards determined to try to reach Mexico
by land. After some time spent in wandering through the
forests, despairing of success in the attempt to rescue them-
selves by land, they proceeded to prepare such vessels aa
they could to take them to sea. From January to July
1543, the weak, sickly band of gold-seekers labored at the
doleful task, and in July reached, in the vessels thus built,
the Gulf of Mexico, and by September entered tiie river
Pauuco. Oue-half of the six huudred f who had disem-
barked with De Soto, so gay in steel and silk, left their bones
among the mountains and in the morasses of the South, from
Georgia to Arkansas.
De Soto founded no settlements, produced no results, and
left no traces, unless it were that he awakened the hostility
of the red man against the white man, aud disheartened
• Dl' i^nto probably was at tbe lower Chickasaw bluffs. Tlie .Spaniards
calli'il tlie Mississippi Rio Grande, Great Rivei> wLicb is tlie literal
meaning of tlie aboriginal name.
1 t fe liiedna says there lauded 020 men.
such as might desire to follow up the career of discov( ry for
better purposes. The French nation were eager and reatly
to seize upon any news from this extensive domain, and
were the first to profit by De Soto's defeat. As it was, fir
more than a century after the expedition, the west reuiaiuLd
utterly unknown to the whites.
The French were the first Europeans to make .settlements
on the St. Lawrence river aud along the great lakes. Qutbec
was founded by Sir Samuel Champlain in 1608,* and in IGOD
when Sir Henry Hud.son was exploring the noble rivi r
which bears his name, Champlain ascended the Sorrelle
river, and discovered, embosomed between the Green moun-
tains, or " Verdmont," as the chivalrous aud poetic French-
man called them, and the Adirondacks, the beautiful sheet
of water to which his name is iudissolubly attached. In
1613 he founded Montreal.
During the period elapsing between the years 1607 and
1664, the English, Dutch, and Swedes alternately held pos-
session of portions of the Atlantic coast, jealously watching
one another, and often involved in bitter controversy, and
not seldom in open battle, until, in the latter year, the
English became the sole rulers, aud maintained their right3
until the era of the Revolution, when they in turn were
compelled to yield to the growing power of their colonies,
and retire from the field.
The French movements, from the first settlement at
Quebec, and thence westward, were led by the Catholic
missionaries. Le Caron, a Franciscan friar, who had been
the companion and friend of Champlain, was the first to
penetrate the western wilds, which he did in 1616* in a
birch canoe, exploring lake Huron and its tiibutaries.
This was four years before the Pilgrims
"Moored their bark on the wild New England shore."
Under the patronage of Louis XIII, the Jesuits took the
advance, and began vigorously the work of Christianizing
the savages in 1632.
In 1631, three Jesuit missionaries, Brebeuf, Daniel, and
Lallemand, planted a mission on the shores of the lake of
the Iroquois, (probably the modern Lake Simcoe), and also
established others along the eastern border of Lake Huron.
From a map published in 1600, it would appear that the
French had at that date, become quite familiar with the
region from Niagara to the head of Lake Superior, includ-
ing considerable portions of Lake Michigan.
In 1641, Fathers Jogues and Raymbault embarked on
the Penetanguishine Bay for the Sault St. Marie, where
they arrived after a passage of seventeen days. A crowil
of two thousand natives met them, and a great council was
held. At this meeting the French first heard of many
nations dwelling beyond the great lakes.
Father Raymbault ditd in the wilderness in 1642, while
enthusiastically pursuing his discoveries. The same year,
Jogues and Bressani were captured by the Indians aud
tortured, and in 1648 the mission which had been founded
at St. Joseph was taken and destroyed, and Father Daniel
slain. In 1641), the missions St Louis and St. Ignatius
* Western Auuals.
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MOXROE AXD PERRY COVXTIES, II.LIXOIS.
11
were also destroyed, and Fathers Brebeuf and Lallemand
barbarously tortured by the same terrible and unrelenting
enemy. Literally did those zealous missionaries of the
Eomish Church "take their lives in their hands," and lay
them a willing sacrifice on the altar of their faith.
It is stated by some -writer that, in 1G.54, two fur traders
accompanied a band of Otfatias on a journey of five hun-
dred leagues to the west. They were absent two years, and
on their return brought with thom fifty canoes and two
hundred and fifty Indians to the French trading posts.
They related wonderful tales of the countries they had
seen, and the various red nations they had visited, and
described the lofty mountains and mighty rivers in glowing
terms- A new impulse was given to the spirit of adventure,
and scouts and traders swarmed the frontiers and explored
the great lakes and adjacent country, and a party wintered
in IGJO-fiO on the south shore of Lake Superior.
In IGCO Father Mcsnard was sent out by the Bishop of
Quebec, and visited Lake Superior in October of that year.
While crossing the Keeweenaw Point he was lost in the wilder-
ness and never afterwards heard from, though his ca&sock
and breviary were found long afterwards among the S'toiu:.
A change w.as made in the government of Xcw France in
IGGj. The Company of the Hundred Associates, who had
ruled it since 1G32, resigned its charter. Tracy was made
Viceroy, Courcelles Governor, and Talon Intendent* This
was called the Government of the West Indies.
The Jesuit missions were taken under the care of the new
govcnmcnt, and thenceforward became the leaders in the
movement to Christianize the savages.
In the same year (1GG.5) Pierre Claude Alloiiez was sent
out bv way of the Ottawa river to the far west, via the Sault
St. Marie and the south shore of Lake Superior, where he
landed at the bay of Chegoimegon. Here he found the
chief village of the Chippewas, and established a mission.
lie also made an alliance with them and the >S(te<, Foxes and
IlUnoi.<,y against the formidable Iroqiioi<. Alloiiez, the nest
vcar (1GG6) visited the western end of the great lake, where
he met the Sioux, and from them first learned of the Missis-
.sippi river which they called "Messipi." From thence he
returned to Quebec.
In 1GG3 Claude Dablon and Jacques JIarquette estab-
lished the mission at the Sault called St. Marie, and during
the next five years Alloiiez, Dablon and Marquette explored
the region of Lake Superior on the south shore, and ex-
tending to Lake Michigan. They also established the mis-
sions of Chegoimegon, St. Marie, Mackinaw and Green Bay.
The plan of exploring the Mississippi probably originated
with Marquette. It was at once sanctioned by the Inten-
dent, Talon, who was ambitious to extend the dominion of
France over the whole West.
In 1G70 Nicholas Perot was sent to the West to propose a
congress of all the nations and tribes living in the vicinity
of the lakes ; and, in 1G71, a great council was held at Sault
St. Marie, at which the Cross was set up, and the nations of
» The duties of Intendent included a super\-ision of the policy, justice,
and finance of the province.
t The meaning of this word is said to be " Men."
the great Xorth-west wtre taken into an alliance, with much
pomp and ceremony.
On the 13th of May, 1673, Marquette, Joliet, and five
voiinrjeurs, embarked in two birch canoes at Mackinaw and
entered Lake Michigan. The first nation they visited was
the " FoUei-Avoincn," or nation of Wild Oats, since known
as the Menomonies, living around the " Bale des Puans," or
Green Bay. These people, with whom Marquette was some-
what acquainted, endeavored to persuade the adventurers
from visiting the Mississippi. They represented the Indians
on the great river as being blood-thirsty and savage in the
extreme, and the river itself as being inhabited by monsters
which would devour them and their canoes together.*
Marquette thanked them for their advice, but declined to
be guided by it. Passing through Green Bay, they ascended
the Fox River, dragging their canoes over the strong rapids
and visited the village, where they found living in harmony
together tribes o{ t\\Q Mlamis, Ma.iCOutcns'\ aud KiLabeaux
or Kickiipoos. Leaving this point on the 10th of June, they
made the portage to the " Ou!.iconsi:i," and descended that
stream to the Mississippi, which they entered on the 17th
with a joy, as Marquette says, which he could not express."];
Sailing down the Jlississippi, the party reached the Des
Moines River, and, according to some, visited an Indian
village some two leagues up the stream. Here the people
again tried to persuade them from prosecuting their voyage
down the river. After a great feast and a dance, and a
night passed with this hospitable people, they proceeded on
their way, escorted by sis hundred persons to their canoes.
These people called themselves lUtnois, or lUini. The name
of their tribe was Peruaca, and their language a dialect of
the Algonquin.
Leaving these savages, they proceeded down the river.
Passing the wonderful rocks, which still excite the admira-
tion of the traveller, they arrived at the mouth of another
great river, the Pthiiantni, or Missouri of the present day.
They noticed the condition of its waters, which they described
as " muddy, rushing and noisy."
Passing a great rock, § they came to the Ouaboushtgnn, or
Ohio. Marquette shows this river very small, even as com-
pared with the lUinois. From the Ohio they passed as far
down as the Akamsca, or Arkansas, where they came very
near being destroyed by the natives; but they finally paci-
fied them, and, on the 17th of July, they commenced their
return voyage.
The party reached Green Bay in September without loss
or injury, and reported their discoveries, which were among
the most important of that age. Marquette afterwards
returned to Illinois, and preached to the natives until li"i75.
On the 18th of Jlay of that year, while cruising up the
eastern coast of Lake Michigan with a partv of boatmen,
he landed at the mouth of a stream putting into the lake
from the east, since known as the river Marquette. He
performed mai=s, and went a little apart to pray, and being
•See Icj^end of the erent hird. the terrible " Piasn,^* tlialdcvonred men
and was only overcome by the sacrifice of a brave young chief. Th<'
rocks above Alton, Illinois, have some rude representations of this
monster.
t Prairie Indians. ; Marquette's journal. I The grand t >wer.
12
HISTORY OF h'AynOLPIf, MONROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
gone longer than his companions deemed iiecessar)', they
went in search of him, and found him dead where he had
knelt. They buried him in the sand.
While this distinguished adventurer was pursuing his
labors, two other men were preparing to follow in his foot-
step, and make still further explorations, and, if possible,
more important discoveries. These were the Chevalier
Robert de la Salle and Louis Hennepin.
La Salle was a native of Rouen, in Normandy. He was
educated at a seminary of the Jesuits, and designed for the
ministry, but, for reasons unknown, he left the seminary and
came to Canada, in 1G67, where he engaged in the fur trade.
Like nearly every intelligent man, he became intensely
interested in the new discoveries of the West, and conceived
the idea of exploring the passage to the great South Sea,
which by many was believed to exist. He made known his
ideas to the Governor-General, Count Frontenac, and de-
sired his co-operation. The Governor at once fell in with
his views, which were strengthened by the reports brought
back by Jlarquette and Joliet, and advised La Salle to
apply to the King of France in person, and gave him letters
of introduction to the great Colbert, then Minister of
Finance and Marine. Accordingly, in 1675, he returned
to France, where he was warmly received by the King and
nobility, and his ideas were at once listened to, and every
possible favor shown to him.
He was made a Chevalier, and invested with the seigniory
of Fort Catarocouy, or Frontenac (now known as Kingston)
upon condition that he would rebuild it, as he proposed, of
stone.
Returning to Canada, he wrought diligently upon the fort
until 1677, when he again visited France to report progress.
He was received, as before, with favor, and, at the instance
of Colbert and his son, the King granted him new letters
patent and new privileges. Oa the 14th of July, 1678, he
sailed from Rochelle, accompanied by thirty men, and with
Tonti, an Italian, for his lieutenant. They arrived at
Quebec on the 13th of September, and after a few days'
delay, proceeded to Frontenac. Father Lewis Hennepin, a
Franciscan friar, of the Recollet sect, was quietly working
in Canada on La Salle's arrival. He was a man of great
ambition, and much interested in the discoveries of the day.
He was appointed by his religious superiors to accompany
the expedition fitting out for La Salle.
Sending agents forward to prepare the Indians for his
coming, and to open trade with them, La Salle himself em-
barked, on the 18th of November, in a little brigantine of
ten tons, to cross Lake Ontario. This was the first ship of
European build that ever sailed upon this fresh-water sea.
Contrary winds made the voyage long and troublesome, and
a month was consumed in beating up the lake to the Niagara
River. Near the mouth of this river the Iroquois had a
village, and here La Salle constructed the first fortification,
which afterwards grew into the famous Fort Niagara. On
the 26th of January, 1679, the keel of the first vessel built
on Lake Erie was laid at the mouth of the Cayuga Creek,
on the American side, aiwut six miles above the falls.
In the meantime La Salle had returned to Fort Frontenac
to forward supplies for his firthcoming vessel. The little
barque on Lake Ontario was wrecked by carelessness, and a
large amount of the supplies slie carried was lost. On the
7th of August, the new vessel was launched, and made ready
to sail. She was about seven tons' burden.
La Salle christened his vessel the " Griffin," in honor of
the arms of Count Frontenac. Passing across Lake Erie,
and into the small lake, which they named St. Clair, they
entered the broad waters of Lake Huron. Here they en-
countered heavy storms, as dreadful as those upon the ocean
and after a most tempestuous passage they took refuge in
the roadstead of MicldlllmacJcinac (Mackinaw), on the 27th
of August La Salle remained at this point until the middle
of September, busy in founding a fort and constructing a
trading-house, when he went forward upon the deep waters
of Lake Michigan, and soon after cast anchor in Green Bay.
Finding here a large quantity of furs and peltries, he deter-
mined to load his vessel and send her back to Niagara. On
the 18th of September, she was sent under charge of a pilot
while La Salle himself, with fourteen men,* proceeded up
Lake Michigan, leisurely examining its shores and noting
everything of interest. Tonti, who had been sent to look
after stragglers, was to join him at the head of the lake.
From the 19lh of Septem'ber to the l?t of November, the
time was occupied in the voyage up this inland sea. On the
last-named day, La Salle arrived at the mouth of the river
3Iiami.s, now St. Joseph. Here he constructed a fort, and
remained nearly a month waiting for tidings of his vessel;
but, hearing nothing, he determined to push on before the
wintershould preventhira. On the 3d of December, leaving
ten men to garrison the fort, he started overland towards the
head-waters of the Illinois, accompanied by three monks
and twenty men. Ascending the St. Joseph River, he
crossed a short portage and reached the The-a-hi-ki , since
corrupted into Kanhahce. Embarking on this sluggish
stream, they came shortly to the Illinois, and soon after
found a village of the Illinois Indians, probably in the
vicinity of the rocky blufls, a few miles above the present
city of La Salle, Illinois. They found it deserted, but the
Indians had quite a quantity of maize .stored here, and La
Salle, being short of provisions, helped himself to what he
required. Passing down the stream, the party, on the 4th of
January, came to a lake, probably the Lake Peoria, as there
is no other upon this stream. Here they found a great
number of natives, who were gentle and kind, and La Salle
determined to construct a fort. It stood on a rise of ground
near the river, and was named Creve- Cceur f (broken-heart ),
most probably on account of the low spirits of the com-
mander, from anxiety for his vessel and the uncertainty of
the future. Possibly he had heard of the loss of the " Griffin,"
which occurred on her downward trip from Green Bay ;
most probably on Lake Huron. He remained at the Lake
Peoria through the winter, but no good tidings came, and
no supplies. His men were discontented, but the brave
adventurer never gave up hope. He resolved to send a
party on a voyage of exploration up the Mississippi, under
' Annals of the West.
t The site of the work is at present un'.;nowa.
HISIORY OF BAXDOLPH, MOXROE AXD I'KHUY COUXTIES, ILLIXOIS.
13
the lead of Father Hennepin, and he himself would proceed
on foot to Kiagara and Frontenac, to raise more means and
enlist new men; while Tonti, his lieutenant, should stay at
the fort, which they were to strengthen in the meantime, and
extend their intercourse with the Indians.
Hennepin started on his voyage on the last da}' of Febru-
ary, 16S0, and La Salle soon after, with a few attendants,
i-tarted on his perilous journey of twelve hundred miles by
the way of the Illinois Kiver, the Miami, and Lakes Erie
! nd Ontario, to Frontenac, which he finally reached in
safety. He found his worst fears realized. The "Griffin"
was lost, his agents had taken advantage of his absence, and
his creditors had seized his goods. But he knew no such
word as Jail, and by the middle of summer he was again on
his way with men and supplies for his band in Illinois. A
sad disappointment awaited him. He found his fort deserted
and no tidings of Tonti and his men. During La Salle's
absence the Indians had become jealous of the French, and
they had been attacked and harassed even by the Iroquois,
who came the long distance between the shores of Lake
Ontario and the Illinois River to make war upon the more
peaceable tribes dwelling on the prairies. L'ncertain of any
Bi^sistance from La Salle, and apprehensive of a general
war with the savages, Tonti, in September, 1G80, abandoned
his position and returned to the shores of the lakes. La
Salle reached the post on the Illinois in December, 1G80, or
January, 168L Again bitterly disappointed. La Salle did
not succumb, but resolved to return to Canada and start
anew. This he did, and in June met his lieutenant, Tonti,
at Mackinaw.
Hennepin in the meanwhile had met with .strange adven-
tures. After leaving Creve-Coeur, he reached the Missis-
sippi in seven days ; but his way was so obstructed by ice
that he was until the 11th of April reaching the AVisconsin
line. Here he was taken prisoner by some northern Indians,
who, however, treated him kindly and took him and his
companions to the falls of St. Anthony, which they reached
on the first of May. These falls Hennepin named in honor
of his patron saint. Hennepin and his companions remained
here for three months, treated very kindly by their captors.
At the end of this time they met with a band of French,
led by one Sieur de Lulh,* who, in pursuit of game and
trade, had penetrated to this country by way of Lake Su-
perior. With his band Hennepin and his companions re-
turned to the borders of civilized life in November, 1G80,
just after La Salle had gone back to the wilderness. Hen-
nepin returned to France, where, ia 1684, he published a
narrative of his wonderful adventures.
Robert De La Salle, whose name is more closely connected
with the explorations of the Mississippi than that of any
other, was the next to descend the river in the year 1G82.
Formal possession was taken of the great river and all the
countries bordering upon it or its tributaries in the name of
the King.
La Salle and his party now retraced their steps towards
the north. They met with no serious trouble until they
reached the Chickasaw Bluffs, where ihcy had erected a fort
" From this man uadoubtedlj- ccmc3 I'.ie name of Dulutli.
on their downward voyage, and named it Prudhomme.
Here La Salle was taken violently sick. Unable to proceed,
he sent forward Tonti to communicate with Count Fronte-
nac. La Salle himself reached the mouth of the St. Joseph
the latter part of September. From that point he sent
Father Zenobe with his dispatches to represent him at court,
while he turned his attention to the fur trade and to the
project of completing a fort, which he named St. Louis,
upon the Illinois River, The precise location of this work
is not known. It was said to be upon a rocky bluff two
hundred and fifty feet high, and only accesiible upon one
side. There are no bluffs of such a height on the Illinois
River answering the description. It may have been on
the rocky bluff above La Salle, where the rocks are perhaps
one hundred feet in height.
L^pon the completion of this work La Salle again sailed
for France, which he reached on the 13th of December,
1G83. A new man. La Barre, had now succeeded Fronte-
nac as Governor of Canada. This man was unfriendly
towards La Salle, and this, with other untoward circum-
stances, no doubt led hira to attempt the colonization of the
^Mississippi country by w ay of the mouth of the river. Kot-
withstanding many obstacles were in his path, he succeeded
in obtaining the grant of a fleet from the King, and on the
24th of July, 1G84, a fleet of twenty-four vessels sailed from
Rochelle to America, four of which were destined for Lou-
isiana, ar.d carried a body of two hundred and eighty
people, including the crews. There were soldiers, artificers,
and volunteers, and also " some young women." Discord
soon broke out between M. de Beanjeu and La Salle, and
grew from bad to worse. On the iOth of December they
reached the island of St. Domingo.
Joutel* was sent out with this party, which left on the
5lh of February, and traveled eastward three days, when
they came to a great stream which they could not cross.
Here they made signals by building great fires, and on the
loth two of the vessels came in sight. The stream was
sounded and the vessels were anchored under shelter. But
again misfortume overtook La Salle, and the vessel was
wrecked, and the bulk of supplies was lost. At this junc-
ture M. de Bcaujeu, his second in command, set sail and
returned to France. La Salle now constructed a rude
shelter from the timbers of his wrecked vessel, placed bis
peojile inside of it, and set out to explore the surrounding
country in hope of finding the Mississippi. He was, of
course, disappointed : but found on a stream, which is
named the Yaches, a good site for a fort. He at once re-
moved his camp, and, after incredible exertions, constructed
a fortification sufficient to protect them from the Indians.
This fort was situated on Matagorda Bay, within the present
liniiU of Texas, and was called by La Salle Fort St. Louis.
Leaving Joutel to complete the work with one hundred
men, La Salle took the remainder of the company and em-
barked on the river, with the intention of proceeding as far
up as he could. The savages soon became troublesome, and
•Joutel, historian of tlic voyage, accompanied La Salle, am! snlxic-
quently wrote his " Journal Historiquc," which was published in Paris,
1713.
14
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND FERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
on the 14th of July La Salle ordered Joutel to join him
with his whole I'.rce. They had already lost several of their
best men, and dangers threatened them on every side. It
would seem from ihe historian's account of the expedition
that La Salle began to erect another fort, and also that he
becartc morose and severe in his discipline, so much so as to
get the ill will of many of his people. He finally resolved
to advance into the country, but whether with the view of
returning to Canada by way of Illinois, or only for the pur-
pose of making further discoveries, Joutel leaves in doubt.
Giving his last instructions, he left the fort on the 12th day
of January, 1687, with a company of about a dozen men,
including his brother, two nephews. Father Anastasius, a
Franciscan friar, Joutel, and others, and moved north-east-
ward, as is supposed, until the 17th of March, when some
of his men, who had been cherishing revengeful feelings for
some time, waylaid the Chevalier and shot him dead.
They also slew one of his nephews and two of his servants.
Tins deed occurred on the 20th of March, ou a stream
called Ccnis.
In 1687, France was involved in a long and bloody war.
The League of Augsburg was formed by the Princes of tlic
Empire against Louis XIV., and England, Sf>aiu, Holland,
Denmark, Sweden, and Savoy took up arras, and Louis
found himself battling with nearly the whole of Europe, and
only Turkey for an ally. This war ended with the peace of
Kyswick in 1697.
No material change took place in America, but the colo-
nists were harassed and many of their people killed or car-
ried c-ptives to the Canadas. In 1688, the French posses-
sions ill North America included nearly the whole of the
continent north of the St. Lawrence, and the entire valley
of the Mississippi ; and they had begun to establish a line
of fortifications extending from Quebec to the mouth of the
Mississippi, between which points they had three great lines
of communication, to wit : by way of Mackinaw, Green
Bay, and the Wisconsin Eiver ; by way of Lake Michigan,
the Kankakee and Illinois Rivers ; and by way of Lake
Erie, the Maumee and Wabash Rivers, and were preparing
to explore the Ohio as a fourth route.
In 1699, D'Iberville, under the authority of the crown,
discovered, on the second f f March, by way of the sea, the
mouth of the " Hidden River." This majestic stream was
called by the natives " Malbouchia," and by the Spaniards,
' La Pulissade," from the great number of trees about its
mouth. After traversing the several outlets, and satisfying
himself as to its certainty, he erected a fort near its western
outlet, and returned to France. An avenue of trade was
now opened out, which was fully improved.
At this time a census of New France showed a total
population of eleven thou.sand two hundred and forty-nine
Europeans. War again broke out in 1701, and extended
over a period of twelve years, ending with the treaty of
L'trecht, in 1713. This also extended to the American Colo-
nies, and its close left everything as before, with the excep-
tion that Nova Scotia was captured in 1710.
In 1718, New Orleans was laid out and settled by some
European colonists. In 1762, the colony was made over to
Spain, to be regained by France, under the consulate of
Napoleon.
In 1803, it was purchased by the United States, for the
sum of fifteen million dollars, and the territory of Louisiana
and the commerce of the Mississippi river, came under the
charge of the United States. Although La Salle's labors
ended in defeat and death, he had not worked and suffered
in vain. He had thrown open to France and the world an
immense and most valuable country. Had established
several ports, and laid the foundation of more than one
.settlement there. " Peoria, Kaskaskia and Cahokia are to
this day monuments of La Salle's labors ; for, th ugh he
had founded neither of them (unless Peoria, which was built
nearly upon the site of Fort Crevecrour), it was by those he
led into the we.st that these places were peopled and civil-
ized. He was, if not the discoverer, the first settler of the
Mississippi Valley, and as such deserves to be known and
honored."*
The French early improved the opening made for them,
and before 1693, the Reverend Father Gravier began a
mission among the Illinois, and became the founder of Kas-
kaskia. For some time it was merely a missionary station,
and the inhabitants of the village consisted entirely of
natives ; it being one of three such villages, the other two
being Cahokia and Peoria. This we learn from a letter
written by Father Gabriel Marest, dated " Aux Cascaskias,
Autrement dit de I'lmmaculee concepcion de la Sainte
Vierge, le 9 Novembrc, 1712." In this letter, the writer
tells us that Gravier must be regarded as the founder of the
Illinois mi sions. Soon after the founding of Kaskaskia, the
missionary, Pinet, gathered a flock at Cahokia,t while
Peoria arose near the remains of Fort Crevecocur X
An unsuccessful attempt was also made to found a colony
on the Ohio. It failed in consequence of sickness.^
In the north, De La Motte Cadillac, in June, 1701, laid
the foundation of Fort Poutchartrain, on the strait, (le De.
troit'),|| while in the southwest efforts were making to realize
the dreams of La Salle. The leader in the last named en-
terprise was Lemoine D'Iberville, a Canadian officer, who
from 1694 to 1097 distinguished himself not a little by
battles and conquests among the icebergs of the " Baye
D'Udson or Hudson Bay."
The post at Vincennes, on theOubache river, (pronounced
Wa-ba, meaning summer cloud moving swiftly), was estab-
lished in 1702. It is quite probable that on La Salle's last
trip he established the stations at Kaskaskia and Cahokia.
Until the year 1750, but little is known of the settlements
in the northwest, as it was not until this time that the atten-
■■' The authorities in relation to La Salle are Hennepin : a narrative pub-
lished in the name of Tonti, in 1697, but disclaimed by liim (Cliarlevoix
III, 3tl5. Lettres Edifiantes.
t Bancroft, iii. tflti.
I There was an Old Peoria on the northwest shore of the lake of that
name, amile and a half above the outlet. From 1778 to 17% the iiiliaiii-
tants left this for New Peoria, (Fort Clark) at the outlet. Anuri.an
State Papers, xviii. 476.
^ Western An mils,
f Charlevoix, ii. 2S4. Le Detroit wa.s the whole strait from Erie to
Huron. The first grants of land at Detroit, t. e., Fort Pontchartrain,
were made in 1707.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
15
tion of the English was called to the occupation of this por-
tion of the new world, which they then supposed they
owned. Vivier, a missionary among the Illinois, writing
" Aux Illinois," six leagues from Fort Chartres, June 8th,
1750, says: " We have here whites, negroes, and Indians, to
say nothing of the cross-breeds. There are five French
villages, and three villages of the natives within a space of
twentv-one leagues, situated between the Mississippi and
another river, called the Karkadiad, (Kaskaskia ). In the
five French villages are, perhaps, eleven hundred whites,
three hundred blacks, and some sixty red slaves or savages.
The three Illinois towns do not contain more than eight
hundred souls all told.* Most of the French till the soil.
They raise wheat, cattle, pigs and horses, and live like
princes. Three times as much is produced as can be con-
sumed, and great quantities of grain and flour are sent to
Kew Orleans."
Again, in an epistle dated November 17th, 17."iO, Yivicr
says : " For fifteen leagues above the mouth of the Jlissis-
sippi, one sees no dwellings * * * * New Orleans contains
black, white and red, not more, I think, than twelve hun-
dred persons. To this point come all kinds of lumber,
bricks, salt-beef, tallow, tar, skins, and bear's grease; and
above all pork and flour from the Illinois. These things
create some commerce, as forty vessels and more have come
hither this year. Above New Orleans plantations are again
met with ; the most considerable is a colony of Germans,
some ten leagues up the river. At point Coupee, thirty-five
leagues above the German settlement, is a fort. Along here,
witliin five or six leagues, are not less than sixty habitations.
Fifty leagues farther up is the Natchez post, where we have
a garrison."
Father Marest, witing from the post at Vincennes, makes
the same observation. Vivier also says, " Some individuals
dig lead near the surface, and supply the Indians and Can-
ada. Two Spaniards, now here, who claim to be adepts,
say that our mines are like those of Mexico, and that if we
would dig deeper we would find silver under the lead ; at
any rate the lead is excellent. There are also in this coun-
try, beyond doubt, copper mines, as from time to time, large
pieces have been found in the streams." I'
At the close of the year 17.50, the French occupied in ad-
dition to the lower ilississippi posts and those iu Illinois,
one at Du Quesue, one at the ^laumec, in the country of the
^•lamis, and one at Sandusky, in what may be termed the
Ohio Valley. In the northern part of the north-west, they
had stations at St. Joseph's on the St. Joseph's of Lake
Michigau, at Fort Pontchartraiu (^Detroit), at Micliilli-
uiackinac or Massillimacinac, Fox Kiver of Green Bay, and
at Sault Ste. Marie. The fondest dreams of La Salle were
now fully realized. The French alone were possessors of
this vast realm, basing their claim on discovery and settle-
ment. Another nation, however, was now turning its
attention to this extensive country, and learning of its
wealth began to lay plans for occupying it and for securing
the great profits arising therefrom.
- Lottrc-j Eiliffant,-: i I'm.-, ITolj, vii. 97-IOi;.
t Western .Vnnali.
The French, however, had another claim to this country,
namely, the
DISCOVERY OF TOE OHIO.
The largest branch of the Mississippi river from the east,
known to the early French settlers as la belle riviere, called
" beautiful " river, was discovered by Robert Cavalier de
La .Salle, in 1669. While La Salle was at his trading-post
on the St. Lawrence, he found leisure to study nine Indian
dialects, the chief of which was the Iroquois. While con-
versing with some Senecas, he learned of a river called the
Ohio, which rose in their country and flowed to the sea.
In this statement the Mississii)pi and its tributaries were
considered as one stream. La Salle, believing as most of
the French at that period did, that the great rivers flowing
west emptied into the Sea of California, was anxious to em-
bark in the enterprise of discovering a route across the
continent. He repaired at once to Quebec to obtain the
approval of the Governor and the Intendent, Talon. They
issued letters patent, authorizing the enterprise, but made
no provisions to defray the expenses.
At this juncture the seminary St. Sulpicc decided to send
out missionaries in connection with the expedition, and La
Salle offering to sell his improvements at La Chive to raise
the money, the offer was accepted by the Superior, and two
thousand eight hundred dollars were raised, with which La
Salle purchased four canoes and, the necessary supplies for
the outfit.
On the 6th of July, 1669, the party, numbering twenty-
four persons, embarked iu seven canoes on the St. Lawrence.
Two additional canoes carried the Indian guides.
In three days they were gliding over the bosom of Lake
Ontario. Their guides conducted them directly to the
Seneca village on the bank of the Genesee, in the vicinity
of the present city of Rochester, New York. Here they
expected to procure guides to conduct them to the Ohio, but
ill this they were disappointed. After waiting a month in
the hope of gaining their object, they met an Indian from the
Iroquois colony, at the head of Lake Ontario, who assured
them they could find guides, and offered to conduct them
thence. On their way they passed the mouth of Niagara
river, when they heard for the first time the di.stant thunder
of the cataract. Arriving among the Iroquois they met
with a friendly reception, and learned from a Shawnee
prisoner that they could reach the Ohio in six weeks. De-
lighted with the unexpected good fortune, they made i-eady
to resume their journey, and as they were about to start they
heard of the arrival of two Frenchmen in a neighboring
village. One of them proved to be Louis Joliet, afterwards
famous as an explorer in the west. He had been sent by
the Canadian government to explore the copper mines on
Lake Superior, but had failed and was on his way back to
Quebec.
On arriving at Lake Superior, they found, as La Salle
had predicted, the Jesuit fathers, Marquette and Dablon,
occupying the field. After parting with the priests, La
Salle went to the chief Iroquois village at Onondago, where
he obtained guides and passing thence to a tributary of the
Ohio south of Lake Erie, he descended the latter as far as
16
nisTOHY OF L'ANDOLPII. MOXROE AND PERRY COUXTIES, ILLINOIS.
the falls of Louisville. Tlius was the Ohio discovered by
La Salle, the persevering and successful French explorer of
the west in 16(39.
When "Washington was sent out by the colony of Virginia
in 1753, to demand of Gordeur de St. Pierre why the French
had built a fort on the Monongahela, the haughty com-
mandant at Quebec replied : " We claim the country on the
Ohio by virtue of the discoveries of La Salle, and 'will not
give it up to the Engli.«h. Our orders are to make prisoners
of every Englishman found trading in the Ohio valley."
ENGLISH EXPLORATIONS AND SETTLEMENTS.
"We have sketched the progress of French discovery in
the valley of the Mississippi. The first travelers reached
tha* river in 1073, and when the year 17.50 broke in upon
the father of waters and the great north-we-st, all was still
except those little spots upon the prairies of Illinois and
among the marshes of Louisiana.
Volney, by conjecture, fixes the settlement of Yiucennes
about 1735.* Bishop Brute, of Indiana, speaks of a mis-
sionary station there in 1700, and adds: "The friendly
tribes and traders called to Canada for protection, and then
M. De Yincennes came with a detachment, I think, of
Carignan, and was killed in 1735. "f Bancroft says a mili-
tary e.stablishment was formed there in 1716, and in 1742 a
settlement of herdsmen took place. J In a petition of the
old inhabitants at Viucennes, dated in November, 1793, we
find the settlement spoken of as having been made before
1742.§ And such is the general voice of tradition. On the
other hand, Charlevoix, who records the death of "Vincennes,
which took place among the Chickasaws, in 1736, makes no
mention of any post on the Wabash, or any missionary
station there. Neither does he mark any upon his map,
although he gives even the British forts upon the Tennessee
and elsewhere. Such is the character of the proof relative
to the settlement of Vincennes.
Hennepin, in 166-3-4, had heard of the " Hohio." The
route from the lakes to the Mississippi, by the Wabash, was
explored 1676, 1| and in Hennepin's volume of 1698, is a
journal, said to be that sent by La Salle to Count Frontenac
in 1682 or '83, which mentions the route by the Maumeel"
and Wabash as the most direct to the great western river.
In 1749, when the English first began to think seriously
of sending men into the west, the greater portions of the
states of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Michigan, Wisconsin, and
Minnesota were yet under the dominion of the red men.
The English knew, however, of the nature of the vast
wealth of these wilds.
In the year 1710, Governor Spotswood, of Virginia, had
matured a plan and commenced movements, the object of
which was to secure the country beyond the Allegheni.s to
the English crown. In Pennsylvania, also. Governor Keith
and James Logan, Secretary of the Province from 1719 to
» Volney's View, p. 336.
t Butler's Kentucky.
t History U. S. iii. 346.
J American State Papers, .xvi. 32.
II Histoire General Des Voyages xiv., 758.
^Now called Miami.
1731, represented to the powers of England the necessity of
taking steps to secure the western lands Nothing, however,
was done by the mother country, except to take certain
diplomatic steps to secure the claim of Britain to this unex-
ploreil wilderncs?. England nad from the outset cl.aimed
from the Atlantic to the Pacific, on the ground that the dis-
covery and possession of the sea coast was a discovery and
possession of the country ; and as is well known, her grants
to Virginia, Connecticut, and other colonies, were through
from " sea to sea." This was not all her claims ; she had
purchased from the Indian tribes large tracts of land. This
was also a strong argument.
In the year 1684, Lord Howard, Governor of Virginia,
held a treaty with the five nations at Albany. These were
the great Northern Confederacy, and comprised at first the
Mohawks, Oneidas, Ououdagas, Cayugas, and Seuecas.
Afterward the Tuscaroras were taken into the confederacy,
and it became known as the six nations. They came under
the protection of the mother country, and again in 1701 they
repeated the agreement. Another formal deed was drawa
up and signed by the chiefs of the National Confederacy in
1726, by which their lands were conveyed in trust to Eng-
land, " to be protected and defended by his majesty, to and
for the use of the grantors and their heirs." The validity
of this claim has often been disputed, but never successfull}'.
In 1774, a purchase was made at Lancaster of certain lands
within the " colony of Virginia," for which the Indians
received £200 in gold and a like sum in goods, with a
promise that as settlements increased, more should be paid.
The commissioners from Virginia at the treaty were Col.
Thomas Lee and Col. William Beverly.
As settlements extended, and the Indians .^egan to com-
plain, the promise of further pay was called to mind, and
Mr. Conrad Weiser was sent across the Alleghenies to Logs-
town. In 1784, * Col. Lee and some Virginians accom-
panied him, with the intention of ascertaining the feelings
of the Indians with regard to further settlements in the west,
which Col. Lee and others were contemplating. The object
of these proposed settlements was not the cultivation of the
soil, but the monopoly of the Indian trade. Accordingly
after Weiser's conference with the Indians at Logstown,
which was favorable to their views, Thomas Lee, with
twelve other Virginians, among whom were Lawrence and
Augustine, brothers of George Washington, and also Mr.
Hanbury, of London, formed an association whi h they
called the "Ohio Company," and in 1748 petitioned the
king for a grant beyond the mountains. This petition was
approved by the English government, and the government
of Virginia was ordered to grant to the petitioners half a
million of acres within the bounds of that colony beyond
the Alleghenies, two hundred thousand of ^^hich were to be
located at once. This portion was to be held for ten years
free of quit-rent, provided the company would put there one
hundred families within seven years, and build a fort suffi-
cient to protect the settlement. The company accepted the
proposition, and sent to London for a cargo suited to the
Indian trade, which should arrive ij November, 1749.
»Pljia Facts, pp.40, 120.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Other companies wore also formed about this time in Vir-
ginia to cohinize tiie west. On the 12th of June, 1749, a
grant of 800,1100 acres from the line of Canada, on the
north and west, was made to the Loyal t'onipany, and on
the 29th of October, 1751, another of lOO.UOO acres to the
Grtenbriar Company. *
The French were not blind all this time. They saw that
if the British once obtained a stronghold upon the Ohio,
they might not only prevent their settlements upon it, but
in time would come to the lower posts, and so gain posses-
sion of the whole country. Upon the lOth of May, 1744,
Vaudreuil, the French governor, well knowing the conse-
quences that must arise from allowing the English to build
trading posts in the north-.vest, seized some of their frontier
posts, to further secure the claims of the French to the
west. Having these fears, and seeing the danger of the
late movements of the British, Gallisoniere, then Governor
of Canada, determined to place along the Ohio evidences of
the French claim to, and possession of, the country. For
that purpose he sent, in the summer of 1749, Louis Celeron,
with a party of soldiers, to place plates of lead, on which
were written out the claims of the French, in the mounds
and at the mouths of the rivers. These were heard of by
Willliam Trent, au Indian commissioner, sent out by Vir-
ginia in 17">2, to treat with and conciliate the Indians,
while upon the Ohio, and mentioned in his journal. One of
these plates was found with the inscription partly defaced.
It bears date August ICth, 1749, and a cojn of the inscrip-
tion, with particular account, was sent by De Witt Clinton
to the American Autiiiuariau Society, among whose journals
it may now be found. These measures did not, however,
deter the English fnmi going on with their explorations.
In Februarv, H-)!, Christoph-T Gist was scut by the
Ohio Company to examine its lands. He went to a village
of the Twigtwecs, on the Miami, about 1")0 miles above its
mouth. From there he went down the Ohio Paver nearly
to the falls, at the jiresent city of Louisville, and in Novem-
ber ha commenced a survey of the company's lands. In
1751, General Andrew l/cwis commenced some surveys in
the Greenbrier country, on behalf of the company already
mentioned. Meanwhile the French were busy iu preparing
their forts for defence, and in opening roads. In 1752
having heard of the trading houses on the Miami River,
thev, assisted by tlie Oltawas and Cliippewas, attacked it,
and, after a severe battle, in which fourteen of the natives
were killed and others wounded, captured the garrison.
The traders were carried away to Canada, and one account
says several were b\irned. This fort, or trading house was
called by the Engli.-h writers rickawillany. A memorial
of the king's ministers refers to it as " Pickawellanes, in the
centre of the territory between Ohio ami the Wabash."
This was the first blood shed between the French and
English, and occurred near the present city of Piqua, Ohio.
The English were determined ou their part to purchase a
title from the Indians of lands whi'-h they wished to occupy,
and in the spring of 1752, Messrs. Fry,t Lomax and Pat. on
^^Rcvlsiil Pinmipi of Vir.'iiii.i.
+ .\ftirnar.l-i C'lHiinnii l.i-in-cliicf t
meut of lUc I'rcnch Vi'-.'.r of 177j.
Wasliiiii'tou, at Cio commencc-
were sent from Virginia to hold a conference with the
natives at L igstown, to learn what they objected to in the
treaty at Lancaster, and to settle all difficulties. On the
9th of June the commissioners met the red men at Logs-
town. This was a village seventeen miles below Pittsburgh,
upon the north side of the Ohio. Hero had been a trading
post for many years, but it was abandoned by the Indians
in 1750. At first the Indians declined to recognize the
treaty of Lancaster, but the commissioners taking aside
Jlontour, the interpreter, who was a son of the famous
Catherine Montour, and a chief among the six nations,
being three-fourths of Indian blood, through his influence
an agreement was eflbcted, and upon the 13th of June they
all united in signing a deed, confiruiing the Lancaster treaty
in its fullest extent. Meanwhile the powers beyond the seas
were trving to out-manieuver each other, and were professing
to be at peace. The English generally outwitted the Indians,
and secured themselves, as they thought, by their polite
conduct. But the French, in this as in all cases, proved that
they knew best how to manage the natives. While these
measures were taken, another treaty with the wild men of
the debatable land was also iu contemplation. And iu Sep-
tember, 1753, William Fairfax met their deputies at Win-
chester, Virginia, where he concluded a treaty. In the
month following, however, a more satisfactc ry interview took
place at Carlisle, between the representatives of the Iroquois,
Delawares, Shawneos, Twigtwees, and Wyandots, and the
commissioners of Pennsylvania, Richard Peters, Isaac Xorris,
and Bonjamin Franklin. Soon after this, no satisfaction
being obtained from the Ohi,), either as to the force, position,
or purposes of the French, Robert Dinwiddie, then Governor
of Virginia, determined to send to them another messenger,
and learn if possible their intentions. For this purpose he
selected a young surveyor, who, at the age of nineteen had
attained the rank of major, and whose previous life had
inured him to hardships and woodland ways ; while his
courage, cool judgment, and firm will, all fitted him fir such
a mission. This personage was no other than the illustrious
George Washington, who then held considerable interest iu
western lands. He was twenty-one years old at the time of
the appointment.* Taking Gist as a guide, the two, accom-
panied by four servitors, set out on their perilous march.
They lefi Will's Creek, where Cumberland now is, on the
15lh of Xoveraber, and on the 22d reached the Monongahel;;,
about ten miles above the f 'rk. From there they went t .
L ogstown, where Washington had a long conference wil'.i
the chiefs of the six nations. Here he learned the position
of the French, and also that they had determined not to come
down the river until the following spring. The Indians were
non-committal, they deeming a neutral position the safest.
Washington, finding nothing could be done, went on to Ve-
nango, au old Indian town at the mouth of the Frencli
Creek. Here the French had a fort called Fort Machault.
Ou the 11th of D -c Muber he reached l!ie fort at the head of
French Creek. Here he delivered Governor Dinwiddle's
letter, received his answer, and upon the l<)th set out upun
his return journey with no one l>ut Gist, hii guidi-. and a few
-'SiKirks' Wa,liiu-:on, Vol. ii., ri>- iZi-n:.
18
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Indians, who still remained true to liim. They reached home
iu safety on the 6th of January, 1754. From the letter of
St. Pierre, Commander of the French fort, sent by Washing-
ton to Governor Dinwiddle, it was perfectly clear that the
French would not yield the West without a struggle. Active
preparations were at once made ia all the English colonies
for the coming conflict, while the French finished their fort
at Venango and strengthened their lines of fortifications to
be in readiness. The Old Dominion was alive. Virginia
was the center of great activities. Volunteers were called
for, and from neighboring colonies men rallied to the conflict,
and everywhere along the Potomac men were enlisting under
Governor's proclamation, — which promised two hundred
thousand acres on tlie Ohio. Along this river they were
gathering as far as Will's Creek, and far beyond this point,
whither Trent had come for assistance, for his little band of
fjrty-one men, who were working away in hunger and want,
to fortify that point at the fork of the Ohio, to which both
parties were looking with deep interest. The first birds of
spring filled the firest with their songs. The swift river
rolled by th^ Alh-glieny hillsides, swollen by the melting
snows of spring and April showers. The leaves were appear-
ing, a few Indian Scouts were seen, but no enemy seemed
near at hand, and all was so quiet that Frazier, an old In-
dian trader, who had been left by Trent in command of the
new fort, ventured to his home at the mouth of Turtle Creek,
ten miles up the M jnougahela. But though all was so quiet
iu that wilderness, keen eyes had seen the low entrenchment
that was rising at the fork, and swift feet had borne the news
of it up the valley,, and on the morning of the 17th of April,
Ensign Ward, who then had charge of it, saw upon the
Allegheny a sight that made his heart sink; — sixty batteaux
and three hundred canoes, filled with men, and laden deep
with cannon and stores. The fort was called on to surren-
der: by the advice of the Half-King, AVard tried to evade
the act, but it would not do. Contreca;ur, with a thousand
men about him, said 'Evacuate,' and the eusign dared not
refuse. That evening he supped with his captor, and the
next day was bowed off" by the Frenchman, and, with his
men and tools, marched up the Mouongahela." The French
and Indian war had begun. The treaty of Aix la Chapelle,
in 1748, had left the boundaries between the French and
English possessions unsettled, and the events already narra-
ted show that the French were determined to hold the coun-
try watered by the Mississippi and its tributaries: while the
English laid claim to the country by virtue of the discoveries
by the Cabots, and claimed all the country from New Found-
land to Florida, and from the Atlantic to the Pacific. The
first decisive blow had been struck, and the first attempt of
the English, through the Ohio Company, to occupy these
lands had resulted disastrously to them. The French and
Indians immediately completed the fortifications begun at
the fork, which they had so easily captured, and when com-
pleted gave to the fort the name of Du Quesne. Washing-
ton was at Will's Creek, when the news of the capture of the
fort arrived. He at once departed to recapture it. On his
way he entrenched himself at a place called the " Meadows,"
where he erected a fort called by him Fort Necessity. From
there he surprised and captured a force of French and Indi-
ana marching against him, but was soon after attacked by a
much superior force, and was obliged to yield on the morn-
ing of July 4th. He was allowed to return to Virginia.
The English Government immediately planned for cam-
paigns, one against Fort Du Quesne, one against Nova Sco-
tia, one against Fort Niagara, and one against Crown Point.
These occurred during 1755-6, and were not successful in
driving the French from their possessions.. The expedition
against Fort Du Quesne was led by the famous Braddock,
who, refusing to listen to the advice of Washington and those
acquainted with Indian warfare, suffered an inglorious de-
feat. This occurred on the morning of July 9th, and is gen-
erally known as the battle of Monougahela or " Braddock's
defeat." The war continued through various vicissitudes
through the years 1756-7, when, at the commencement of
1758, in accordance with the plans of William Pitt, then
secretary of state, afterwards Lord Chatham, active prepa-
rations were made to carry on the war. Three expeditions
were planned for this year : one under General Amherst,
against Louisburg; another under Abcrcrombie, against
Fort Ticonderoga ; and a third under General Forbes, against
Fort Du Quesne. On the 26th of July, Louisburg surren-
dered after a desperate resistance of more than forty days,
and the eastern partof the Canadian possessions fell into the
hands of the British. Abercrombie captu red Fort Fronte-
nac, and when the expedition against Fort Du Quesne, of
which Washington had the active command, arrived there,
it was found in flames anl deserted. The English at once
took possession, rebuilt the fort, and in honor of their illus-
trious statesman, changed the name to Fort Pitt.
The great object of the campaign of 1759, was the redac-
tion of Canada. General Wolfe was to lay siege to Quebec ;
Araherst was to reduce Ticonderoga and Crown Point; and
General Prideaux was to capture Niagara. This latter place
was taken in July, but the gallant Prideaux lost his life.
Amherst captured Ticonderoga and Crown Point, without a
blow ; and Wolfe, af.cr making the memorable ascent to the
plains o£ Abraham, on September 13th, dufeated Montcalm,
and on the l«lh the city capitulated. In this engagement,
Montcalm and Wolfe both lost their lives. De Levi, Jlont-
calm's successor, marched to Sillery, three miles above the
city, with th3 purpose of defeating the English, and there,
on the 28th of the following April, was fought one of the
bloodiest battles of the French and Indian war. It resulted
iu the defeat of the French, and the fall of the city of JMon-
treal. The Governor signed a capitulation by which the
whole of C.mada was surrendered to the English. This
practically concluded the war, but it was not until 1763
that the treaties of peace between France and England
were signed. This was done on the 10th of February of that
year, and under its provisions all the country east of the
Mississippi and north of the Ibervill river in Louisiana, were
ceded to England. At the same time, Spain ceded Florida
to Great Britain.
On the 13th September, 1760, Major Robert Rogers was
sent from Montreal to take charge of Detroit, the only re-
maining French post in the territory. He arrived tliere on
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
19
the 9th of November, and suramoaed the place to surrender.
At first the commander of the post, Beletre, refused, but on
the 29rh, hearing of the continued defeat of the French array,
surrendered. The North-west Territory was now entirely
under the English rule. In 17G2, France, by a secret treaty,
ceded Louisiana to Spain, to prevent it fulling into the hands
of the English, who were becoming masters of the entire
West. The next year the treaty of Paris, signed at Fou-
tainbleau, gave to the English the dominion in question.
Twent)' years after, by the treaty of peace between the United
States and England, that part of Canada lying south and
west of the great lakes, comprising a large territory, was
acknowledged to be a portion of the United States. In
1803 Louisiana was ceded by Spain back to France, and by
France sold to the United States. By the treaty of Paris,
the regions east of the Mississippi, including all these and
other towns of the north-west, were given over to England ;
but they do not appear to have been taken possession of until
17G5, when Captain Stirling, in the name of the Majesty in
England, establisheil himself at Fort Chai-tres, bearing with
him the proclamation of General Gage, dated December
30th, 1764, which promised religious freedom to all Catho-
lics who worshiped here and the right to leave the country
with their effects if they wished, or to remain with the priv-
ileges of Englishmen. During the years 1775 i.nd 177(5, by
the operations of land companies and the perseverance of
individuals, several settlements were firmly established be-
tween the AUeghenies aud the Ohio river, and western land
speculators were busy in Illinois and on the Wabash. At a
council held in Kaskaskia, on July .Sth, 1773, an association
of English traders, calling themselves the " Illinois Land
Company," obtained from the chiefs of the Kaskaskia, Ca-
hokia, aud Peoria tribes two large tracts of land lying on the
east side of the Mississippi river south of the Illinois. In
177o a merchant from the Illinois country, named Viviat,
came to Post Viucennes as the agent of the association called
the "Wabash Land Company." On the 8th of October he
obtained from eleven Piauke.-haw chiefs a deed for 37,497,
GOO acres of land. This dccil was signed bv the grantors,
attested by a number of the inhabitants of Yincennes, and
afterward recorded in the office of a Notary Public at Kas-
kaskia. This and other land companies had extensive
schemes for the colonization of the West ; but all were frus-
trated by the breaking out of the Revolutionary war. On
the 20th of April, 1780, the two comixinies named consoli-
dated under the name of the " United Illinois and Wabash
Land Company ; " they afterwards made strenuous efforts to
have these grants sanctioned by Congress, but all signally
failed. When the war of the Revolution commenced, Ken-
tucky was an unorganized country, though there were several
settlements within her borders.
In Ilutehins' Topography of Virginia, it is stated th.".t at
that time Kaskaskia contained 80 houses, and nearly 1,000
white and black inhabitants, the whites being a little the
more numerous. Cahokia contained fifty houses, 300 white
inhabitants, and 80 negroes. There were east of the !Missis-
sippi river, about the year 1771 — when these observations
were made — " 300 white men capable of bearing arms, and
238 negroes." From 1775 until the expedition of Clark,
nothing is recorded and nothing known of these settlements,
save what is contained in a report made by a committee to
Congress in June, 1778. From it the following extract is
made: " Near the mouth of the river Kaskaskia, there is a
village which appears to have contained nearly eighty fam-
ilies from the beginning of the late Revolution ; there are
twelve families at a small village at La Prairie Du Rochers,
and nearly fifty families at the Cahokia village. There are
also four or five families at Fort Chartres and St. Philip's,
which is five miles further up the river." St. Louis had been
settled in February, 1764, and at this time contained, inclu-
ding its neighboring towns, over six hundred white aud one
hundred and fifty negroes. It must be remembered that all
the country west of the Mississippi was under French rule,
and remained so until ceded back to Spain, its original owner,
who afterwards sold it and the country including New Or-
leans to the United States. At Detroit, there were, accord-
ing to Caj)tain Carver, who was in the north-west from 17G8
to 1776, more than one hundred houses, and the river was
settled for more than twenty miles, although poorly cultiva-
ted, the people being engaged in the Indian trade.
On the breaking out of the Revolution, the British held
every post of importance in the West. Kentucky was
formed as a component part of Virginia, and the sturdy
pioneers of the West, alive to their interests, and recog-
nizing the great benefits of obtaining the control of the
trade in this part of the New World, held steadily to their
purposes, and those w'ithin the commonivealth of Ken-
tucky proceeded to exercise their civil privileges of tlecting
John Todd aud Richard Gallaway burgesses, to represent
theni in the assembly of the present state. The chief spirit
in this far-out colony, who had represented her the year
previous east of the mountains, was now meditating a move
of unequalled boldness. He had been watching the move-
ments of the British throughout the north-west, aud under-
stood their whole plan. He saw it was through their
possession of the post at Detroit, Vincennes, Kaskaskia, and
other places, which would give them easy access to the vari-
ous Indian tribes in the north-west, that the British intended
to penetrate the country from the north aud south, and
annihilate the frontier fortresses. Tliis moving, energetic
mau was Colonel, afterwards General George Rodgers Clark.
He knew that the Indians were not unanimously in accord
with the English, and he was convinced that, could the
British be defeated and expelled from the north-west, the
natives might be easily awed iuto neutrality ; by spies sent for
the purpose, he satisfied himself that the enterprise against
the Illinois settlements might easily succeed. Patrick Henry
was Governor of Virginia, and at once entered heartily iuto
Clark's plans. The same plan had before been agitated in
the Colonial Assemblies ; but there was no one until Clark
came who was sufHciently acquainted with the condition of
affairs at the scene of action to be able to guide them.
Clark, havingsatisfied the Virginia leaders of the feasibility
of his plan, received on the second of January two sets of
instructions: one secret, the other open. The latter authoriz-
ed him to proceed to enlist seven companies to go to Ken-
20
HISTORY OF IIANDOLPH, MONBOE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
tucky, subject to his orders, and to serve three months from
their arrival in the west. The secret order authorized him
to arm tlie troops, to procure his powder and lead of General
Hand, at Pittsburg, and to proceed at once to subjugate the
country.
"With these instructions Clark repaired to Pittsburg, choos-
in"- rather to raise his men west of the mountains. Here he
raised three companies and several private volunteers.
Clark at length commenced his descent of the Ohio, which
he navigated as far as tlie falls, where he took possession of
and fortified Corn Island, between the present sites of Louis-
ville, Kentucky, and Ivew Albany, Indiana. Remains of
this fortification may yet be found. At this place he ap-
pointed Col. Bowman to meet him with such recruits as had
reached Kentucky by the southern route. Here he an-
nounced to the men their real destination. On the 24th of
June he embarked on the river, his destination being Fort
Massac or Massacre, and then marched direct to Kaskaskia.
The march was accomplished and the town reached on the
evening of July 4. He captured the fort near the village,
and soon after the village itself, by surprise, without the
loss of a single man or killing any of the enemy. Clark
told the natives that they were at perfect liberty to worship
as they pleased, and to take whichever side of the conflict
thev would, and he would protect them from any barbarity
from Biitish or Indian foes. This had the desired 'effect,
and the inhabitants at once swore allegiance to the Ameri-
can arms, and when Clark desired to go to Cahokia on the
Gth of July, they accompanied him, and through their in-
fluence the inhabitants of the place surrendered. Thus two
iiniwrtaut posts in Illinois passed from the hands of the Eng-
lish into the possession of Virginia. During the year
(1779) the famous " Land Laws " of Virginia were passed-
Tlie passage of these laws was of more consequence to the
pioneers of Kentucky and the north-west than the gaining
of a few Indian conflicts. These grants confirmed in the
main all grants made, and guaranteed to actual settlers their
rights and privileges.
After providing for the settlers, the laws provided for sell-
ing the balance of the public lands at forty cents per acre.
To carry the Land Laws into effect, the Legislature sent
four Virginians westward to attend to the various claims
over many of which great confusion prevailed concerning
their validity vote.* These gentlemen opened their court on
October, 13, 1779, at St. Asaphs, and continued until April
26, 1780, when they adjourned, having decided three thou-
sand claims. They were succeeded by the surveyor, — George
May, who assumed the duties on the 10th day of the month
whose name he bore. With the opening of the next year
(1781) the troubles concerning the navigation of the Missis-
sippi commenced. The Government of Spain exacted such
measures in relation to its trade as to cause the overtures
made to the United States to be rejected. The American
Government considered they had a right to navigate its
channel. To enforce their claims, a fort was erected below
the mouth of the Ohio on the Kentucky side of the river. f
» Butlur's Kentucky.
t American State Papera.
The settlements in Kentucky were being rapidly filled by
emigrants. It was during this year that the first seminary
of learning was established in the West in this young and
enterprising commonwealth.
The settlers did not look upon the building of the fort in
a friendly manner as it aroused the hostility of the Indians.
Spain hael been friendly to the colonies during their struggle
for independence, and though for a while this friendship ap-
peared in danger from the refusal of the free navigation of
the river, yet it was finally settled to the satisfaction of both
nations. The winter of 1779-80 was one of the most unusu-
. ally severe ones ever experienced in the West. The Indians
always refered to it as the " Great Cold." Numbers of wild
animals perished, and not a few pioneers lost their lives.
The following summer a parly of Canadians and Indians,
attacked St. Louis, and attempted to take possesion of it in
consecjuence of the friendly disposition of Spain to the revolt-
ing colonies. They met with such a determined resistance
on the part of the inhabitants, even the women taking part
in the battle, that they were compelled to abandon the con-
test. They also made an attack on the settlements in Ken-
tucky, but, becoming alarmed in some unaccountable man-
ner, they fled the country in great haste. About this time
arose the cjuestion in the Colonial Congress concerning the
western lauds claimed by Virginia, New York, Jlassachu-
setts and Connecticut. The agitation concerning this sub-
ject finally led New York, on the 19th of February, 17S0, to
pass a law giving to the delegates of that State in Congress
the power to cede her western lands for the benefit of the
United States. This law was laid before Congress during
the next month, but no steps were taken concerning it until
September Oth, when a resolution passed that boely calling
upon the states claiming western lands to release their claims
in favor of the whole body. This basis formed the Union,
and was the first after all of those legislative measures,
which resulted in the creation of the States of Ohio, Indiana,
Illinois,Michigan, Wisconsin and ^Minnesota. In Decemberof
the same year, the plan of coneiuering Detroit again arose. The
conquest might easiiy have been effected by Clark, had the
necessary aid been furnished him. Nothing decisive was
done, yet the heads of the Government knew that the safety
of the North- West from British invasion lay iji ihe capture
and retention of that important post, the only unconquered
one in the territory.
Before the close of the year, Kentucky was divided into
the counties of Lincoln, Fayette, and Jeilerson, and the act
establishirg the town of Louisville was passed. Virginia in
accordance with the resolution of Congress, on the 2d day
of January, 1781, agreed to yield her western lands to the
United States upon certain conditions, which Congress would
not accede to,* and the Act of Cession, on the part of the Old
Dominion, failed, nor was anything farther done until 1783.
During all that time the colonies were busily engaged in the
struggle with the mother country, and in consequence thereof
but little heed was given to the western settlements. Upon
the 16th of April, 1781, the first birth north of the Ohio
Eiver of American parentage occurred, being that of Mary
9 American State Papers.
HJSlOm OF EAyDOLPH, MOXIiOE AXD FERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
21
Hcckewelder, daughter of the widely known Moravian Mis-
sionary, whose band of Christian Indians suffered in after
years a horrible massacre by the hands of the frontier settlers,
who had been exasperated by the murder of several of their
neighbors, and in their rage committed, without regard to
humanity, a deed which forever afterwards cast a shade of
shame upon their lives. For this and kindred outrages on
the part of the whites, the Indians committed many deeds of
cruelty which darken the years of 1781 and 17S2 in the his-
tory of the Xorth-west. During the year 1782 a number of
battles among the Indians and frontiersmen occurred, and
between the ^loraviau Indians and the Wyandota. In these,
horrible acts of cruelty were practiced on the captives, many
of such dark deeds transpiring under the leadership of fron-
tier outlaws. These occurred diiefiy in the Ohio Valleys.
Contemporary with them were several engagements in Ken-
tucky, in which the famous Daniel Boone engaged, and who,
often by his skill and knowledge of Indian warfore, saved
the outposts from cruel destruction. By the close of the
vear victory had perched upon the American banner,
and on the 30th of November, provisional articles of
peace had been arranged between the Commissioners of
England and her unconquerable colonies ; C'ornwallis had
been defeated on the 19th of October preceding, and the lib-
erty of America was assured. On the 19.h of April follow-
ing, the anniversary of the battle of Lexington, peace was
proclaimed to the Army of the United States, and on the 3d
of the next September, the definite treaty which ended our
revolutionary struggle was concluded. By the terms of that
treaty, the boundaries of the "West were as follows : On the
north the line was to extend along the centre of the Great
Lakes ; from the western point of Lake Superior to Long
I.,ake, thence to the Lake of the Woods ; thence to the head of
the ^Mississippi Paver ; down its center to the 31st parallel of
latitude, then on that line east to the head of the Appalach-
icola Bivcr; down its center to its junction wiih the Flint ;
thence straight to the head of St. JIary's Kiwr, and theucj
down along its center to the Atlantic Ocean.
Following the cessationof hostilities with England, several
posts were still occupied by the British in the Xorth and
West. Among these was Detroit, still in the hands of the
enemy. Numerous engagements with the Indians through-
out Ohio and Indiana occurred, upon whose lands adventur-
ous whites would settle ere the title had been acquired by the
proper trcatv. To remedy this evil, Congress appointed
Commissioners to treat with the natives and purchase their
lands, and prohibited the settlement of the territory until
this could be done. Before the close of the year another
attempt was made to capture Detroit, which was, however,
not pushed, and Virginia, no longer feeling the interest in
the North-west she had formerly done, withdrew her troops,
having on the 20th of December preceding, authorized the
whole of her possessions to be deeded to the United States.
This was done on the 1st of March following, and the North-
west Territory passed from the control of the Old Dominion.
To General Clark and his soldiers, however, she gave a tract
of one hundred and fifty thousand acres of land, to be situ-
ated anywhere north of the Ohio wherever they cly^se to
locate them. They selected the region opposite the falls of
the Ohio, where is now the village of Clarksville, about mid-
way between the cities of New Albany and Jeffersonville,
Indiana.
While the frontier remained thus, and General Ilaldi-
mand at Detroit refused to evacuate, alleging that he had no
orders from his king to do so, settlers were rapidly gather-
ing about the inland forts. In the spring of 17S4, Pittsburg
was regularly laid out, and from the journal of Arthur Lee,
who passed through the town soon after on his way to the
Indian council at Fort Mcintosh, we suppose it was not very
prepossessing in appearance. He say.s, " Pittsburg is in-
habited almost entirely by Scots and Irish, who live in paltry
log houses, and are as dirty as if in the North of Ireland, or
even Scotland. There is a great deal of trade carried on,
the goods being brought at the vast expense of forty-five
shillings per hundred lbs. from Philadelphia and Baltimore.
They take in the shops flour, wheat, skins and money. There
are in the town, four attorneys, two doctors, and not a priest
of any persuasion, nor church nor chapel."
Kentucky at this time contained thirty thousand inhabi-
tants, and was beginning to discuss measures for a separation
from Virginia. A land office was opened at Louisville, and
measures were adopted to take defensive precaution against
the Indians, who were yet, in some instances, incited to deeds
of violence by the British. Before the close of this year,
1784, the military claimants of land began to occupy them,
although no entries were recorded until 1787. The Indian
title to the Northwest was not yet extinguished, they held
large tracts of lands, and in order to prevent bloodshed Con-
gress adopted means for treaties with the original owners
and provided for the surveys of the lands gained thereby, as
well as for those north of the Ohio, now in its possession.
On January 31, 1786, a treaty was made with the Wabash
Indians. The treaty of Fort Stanwix had been made in
1781, that at Fort Mcintosh in 178.5, and through theso
vast tracts of land were gained. The Wabash Indians, how-
ever, afterwards refused to compi)' with the provisions of
the treaty made with them, and in order to compel their
adherence to its provisions, force was used.
During the year 1786, the free navigation of the !Mis
sissippi came up in Congress, and caused various discussions,
which resulted in no defiait^p anion, only serving to excite
speculation in regard to the Western lands. Congress had
promised bounties of land to the soldiers of the Revolution,
but owing to the unsettled condition of affairs along the
Mississippi respecting its navigation, and the trade of the
Northwest, that body, had in 1783 declared its inability to
fulfill those promises until a treaty could be coucluded be-
tween the two governments. Before the close of the year,
17SG, however, it was able, through the treaties with the
Indians, to allow some grants and settlements thereon, and
on the 14th of September Connecticut ceded to the general
government the tract of land known as the '' Connecticut
Reserve," and before the close of the year a_ large tract of
land was sold to a company, who at once took measures to
settle it. Bv the provisions of this grant, the company were to
pay the United States one dollar per acre, subject to a de-
22
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
ductiiui of one-third fur bad lands and other contingencies,
they received 750,000 acres bounded on the south by the
Ohio, on the east by the Seventh range of townships, on the
west by the Sixteenth range, and on the north by a line so
drawn as to make the grant complete without the reservation.
lu addition to this Congress afterward granted 100,000 acres
to actual settlers, and 214,285 acres as army bounties under
the resolutions of 17.S9 and 1790. While Dr. Cutler, one of
the agents of the company, was pressing its claims before
Congress, that body \va3 bringing into form an ordinance
for the political and social organization of this Territory.
"When the cession was made by Virginia, 1784, a plan was
offered, but rejected. A motion had been made to strike from
the proposed plan the prohibition of slavery, which prevail-
ed. The plan was then discussed and altered, and finally
passed unanimously, with the exception of South Carolina.
By this proposition tlie Territory was to have been divided
into ten States by parallels and meridian lines. There were,
however, serious objections to this plan ; the root of the diffi-
culty was in 'the resolution of Congress passed in October,
17S0, which fixed the boundaries of the ceded lands to be.
from one hundred to one hundred and fifty miles square.
These resolutions being presented to the Legislatures of Vir-
ginia and Massachusetts they desired a change, and in July
1786, the subjeat was taken up in Congress and changed to
favor a division into not more than five S.'ates, and not less
than three; this was approved by the Legislature of Virginia.
The subject was again taken up by Congress in 17S6, and
discussed throughout that year, and until July 1787 when
the famous " compact of 1787 " was passed, and the founda-
tion of the government of the Northwest laid. This compact
is fully discussed and explained in the sketch on Illinois in
this book, and to it the reader is referred. The passage of this
act and the grant to the New England Company was soon
followed by an application to the Government by John Cleves
Symmes, of New Jersey, for a grant of land between the
Miamis. This gentleman had visited these lands soon after
the treaty of 1786, and being greatly pleased with them,
offered similar terms to those given to the New England
Company. The petition was referred to the Treasury Board
with power to act, and a contract was concluded the follow-
ing year. During the autumn the directors of the New
England Company were preparing to occupy their grant
the following spring, and upon the 23d of November made
arrangements for a party of forty-seven men, under the
superintendency of General Rufus Putnam, to set forward.
Six boat-builders were to leave at once, and on the first of
January the surveyors and their assistant?, twenty-six in
number, were to meet at Hartford and proceed on their
journey westward, the remainder to follow as soon as possi-
ble. Congress in the meantime, upon the 3d of October,
had ordered seven hundred troops for defense of the western
settlers, and to prevent unauthorized intrusions, and two
days later appointed Arthur St. Clair Governor of the Ter-
ritory of the Northwest.
AMERICAN SETTLEMENTS.
The civil organization of tlie Northwest Territory was
now complete, and notwithstanding the uncertainty of In-
dian affairs, settlers from the east began to come into the
country rapidly. The New England Company sent their
men during the winter of 1787-8, pressing on over the Alle-
ghenies by the old Indian path which had been opened into
Braddock's road, and which has since been made a national
turnpike from Cumberland, westward. Through the weary
winter days they toiled on, and by April were all gathered
on the Youghiogheny, where boats had been built, and a
once started for the Muskingum. Here they arrived on the
7th of that mouth, and unless the ^Moravian missionaries be
regarded as the pioneers of Ohio, this little band can justly
claim that honor.
General St. Clair, the appointed Governor of the North
west not having yet arrived, a set of laws were passed, writ-
ten out, and published by being nailed to a tree in the
embryo town, and Jonathan Meigs appointed to administer
them. Washington in writing of this, the first American
settlement in the Northwest said : " No colony in America
was ever settled under such favorable auspices as that which
has just commenced at Muskingum. I know many of its set-
tlers personally, and there were never men better calculated
to promote the welfare of such a community." On the 2d
of July a meeting of the directors and agents was held on
the banks of the Muskingum, " for the purpo e of naming
the new born city and its squares." As yet the settlement
was known as the " ]\Iuskingum," but was afterwards changed
to the name. Marietta, in honor of Mario Antoinette.
Two days after, an oration was delivered by James M. Var-
uum, who with S. II. Parsons and John Armstrong had been
appointed to the judicial bench of the territory on the IGth
of October 1787. On July 9, Governor St. Clair arrived,
and the colony began to assume form. The act of 1787 pro-
vided two distinct grades of government for the Northwest,
under the first of which the whole power was invested in the
hands of a governor and three district judges. This was
immediately formed on the governor's arrival, and the first,
laws of the colony passed on the 25th of July: these provid-
ed for the organization of the militia, and on the next day
appeared the Governor's proclamation, erecting all that
country that had been ceded by the Indians east of the
Scioto River into the county of Washington. From that
time forward, notwithstanding the doubts yet existing as to
the Indians, all Marietta prospered, and on the second of
September the first court was held with imposing ceremonies.
The emigration westward at this time was very great.
The commander at Fort Ilarmer, at the mouth of the Musk-
ingum reported four thousand five hundred persons as having
passed that post between February and June 17S8, many of
whom would have purchased of the " Associates," as the
New England Company was called, had they been ready to
receive them. On the 2Gth of November 1787 Symmes
issued a pamphlet stating the terms of his contract and the
plan of sale he intended to adopt. In January 1788, Mat-
thias Denman, of New Jersey, took an active interest in
Svmmes' purchase, and located among other tracts the sec-
tions upon which Cincinnati has been built. Retaining one-
third of this locality, he sold the other two-thirds to Robert
Patterson and John Filson, and the three about August
EiticLY OF BAynoLnr, MoynoE axd PEnnr counties, Illinois.
23
commenced to lay out a town on the spot, which was desig-
nated as being Licking River, to the mouth of whicli thcy
proposed to have a road cut from Lexington ; these settle-
ments prospered but suffered greatly from the flood of 1780.
On the 4th of March 1789, the Constitution of the United
States went into operation, and on April 30th, George
AVashington was inaugurated President, and during the next
summer an Indian war was commenced by the tribes north
of the Ohio. The President at first used pacific means but
these failing, he sent General Ilarmer against the hostile
tribes. He destroyed several villages, but was defeated in
two battles, near the present city of Fort Wayne, Indiana
From this time till the close of 1795, the principal events
were the wars with the various Indian tribes. In 179(5,
General St. Clair was appointed in command, and marched
against the Indians ; but while he was encamped on a stream,
the 8t Mary, a branch of the Maumee, he was attacked and
defeated with a loss of six hundred men. General "Wayne
was then sent against the savages. In August, 1794, he met
them near the rapids of the JIaumee, and gained a cumpkte
victorv. This success, followed by vigorous measures, com-
pelled the Indians to sue for peace, and on the 30th of July,
the following year, the treaty cf Greenville was signed by
the principal chiefs, by which a large tract of country was
ceded to the United States. Before proceeding in our nar-
rative, we will pause to notice Fort "Washington, erected in
the early part of this war on the site of Cincinnati. Nearly
all the great cities of the North-west, and indeed of the whole
countrv, have had their nuclei in those rude pioneer struc-
tures, k:iown as forts or stockades. Thus Forts Dearborn,
Washington, Ponchartrain, mark the original sites of the
now proud cities of Chicago, Cincinnati and Detroit. So of
most of the flourishing cities ea^t and wcstof the Mississippi.
Fort Washington, erected by Doughty in 1790, was a rude
but highly interesting structure. It was composed of a num-
ber of strong' y-built hewed log cabins. Those designed for
soldiers' barracks were a story and a half high, while those
composing the officers' quarters were more imposing and more
conveniently arranged and furnished. The whole was so
placed as to form a hollow .square, enclosing about an acre
of grirtin<l, with a block house at each of the four angles.
Fort Washington was for some time the headquarters of both
the Civil ancl Military governments of the North-western
Territory. Following the consummation of the treaty vari-
ous giLrantic land speculations were entered into by different
persons, who hoped to obtain from the Indians in ^Michigan
and northern Indiana, large tracts of lands. These were
•'cncrally discovered in time to prevent the schemes from
beincr carried out, and from involving the settlers in war.
On October '27, 179.5, the treaty between the United States
and Spain was signed, whereby the free navigation of the
^lississippi was secured. No sooner had the treaty of 179.5
been ratified than settlers began to pour rapidly into the
west. The great event of the year 1790, was the occupa'ion
of that part of the North-west including Jlichigan, which
was this v?:ir, under the provisions of the treaty, evacuated
bv the I3riti^h forces. The United States owing to certain
conditions, did not feel justified in addressing the authorities
in Canada in relation to Detroit and otlier tVontier posts.
When at last the British authorities were called upon to give
them up, they at once complied, and General Wayne who
had done so much to preserve the frontier settlements, and
who before the year's close, sickened and died near Erie,
transferred his headcjuarters to the neighborhood of the lakes,
where a county named after him was formed, which included
the north-west of Ohio, all of Jlichigan, and the north-cast
of Indiana. During this same year settlements were formed
at the present city of Chillicothe, along the Miami from
Middletown to Pi(iua, while in the more distant West, settlers
and speculators began to appear in great numbers. In Sep-
tember the city of Cleveland was laid out, and during the
summer and autumn, Samuel Jackson and Jonathan Sharj)-
less, erected the first nianufiictory of p;iper — the " Iledttone
Paper Mills" — in the West. St- Louis contained some
seventy houses, and Detroit over three hundred, and along
the river, contiguous to it, were more than three thousand
inhabitants, mostly French Canadians, Indians and half-
breeds, scarcely any Americans venturing yet into that part
of the North-west. The election of representatives for the
territory had taken place, and on the 4th of February, 1799,
they convened at Losantiville— now known as Cincinnati,
having been named so by Gov. St. Clair, and considered the
capital of the territory, — to nominate persons from whom the
members of the Legislature were to be chosen in accordance
with a previous ordinance. This nomination being made,
the Assembly adjourned until the IGh of the following Sep-
tember. From those named the President selected as mem-
bers of the council, Henry ■\'andenburg, of Vinceunes, Eobcrt
Oliver, of Marietta, James Findley, and Jacob Burnett, of
Cincinnati, and David Vance, of Vanceville. Ou the IGth
of September, the Territorial Legislature met, and on the
24th, the two houses were duly organized, Henry Vanden-
burg being elected President of the Council. The mes.-age
of Gov. St. Clair, was addressed to the Legislature Septem-
ber 20th, and on October 13th, that body elected as a dele-
gate to Congress, General Wm. Henry Harrison, who re-
ceived eleven of the votes cast, being a majority of one over
his opponent, Arthur St. Clair, son of General St. Clair.
The whole number of acts passed at this session and approved
by the Governor, were thirty-seven — eleven others were
passed but received his veto. The most important of those
p-issed related to the militia, to the administration, and to
taxation. On the 19th of December this protracted session
of the first Legislature in the West closed, and on the SOtli
of December the President nominated Charles Willing Byid,
to the office of secretary of the Territory, vice Wm. Henry
Harrison, elected to Congress. The Senate confirmed his
nomination the next day.
DIVISION" OF THE NOKTH-WEST TEr.KITOKV.
The increased emigration to the north-west, and extent of
the domain, made it very difficult to conduct the ordinary
operations of government, and rendered the efficient action
of courts almost impossible ; to i-emedy this it was deemed
advisable to divide the territory for civil purposes. Con-
24
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
gress, in 1800, appointed a committee to examine the ques-
tion and report some means for its solution.
This committee on the 3d of March reported : " In the
■western countries there had been but one court having cog-
nizance of crimes, in five years, and the immunity which
offenders experience attracts, as to an asylum, the most vile
and abandoned criminals, and at the same time deters useful
citizens from making settlements in such society. The
extreme necessity of judiciary attention and assistance is
experienced in civil as well as in criminal cases. * * * *
To remedy this evil it is expedient to the committee that a
division of said territory into two distinct and separate
governments should be made, and that such division be
made by beginning at the mouth of the Great Miami river,
running directly north until it intersects the boundary
between the United States and Canada."
The report was accepted by Congress, and, in accordance
■with its suggestions, that body passed an act extinguishing
the north-west territory, which act was approved May 7th.
Among its pro-visions were these :
"That from and after July 4 next all that part of the
territory of the United States north-west of the Ohio river,
■which lies to the westward of a line beginning at a point
opposite the mouth of the Kentucky river, and running
thence to Fort Kecovery, and thence North until it shall
intersect the territorial line Ijetween the United States and
Canada, shall for the purpose of temporary government,
constitute a separate territory and be called the Indian
Territory."
Gen. Harrison (afterwards President), was appointed
governor of the Indiana Territory, and during his residence
at Vincennes, he made several important treaties with the
Indians, thereby gaining large tracts of land. The next
year is memorable in the history of the west for the purchase
of Louisiana from France by the United States for 8 1 5,000,-
000. Thus by a peaceful manner the domain of the United
States was extended over a large tract of country west of
the Mississippi, and was for a time under the jurisdiction of
the north-western government. The next year Gen. Harri-
son obtained additional grants of land from the various
Indian nations in Indiana and the present limits of Illinois,
and on the 18th of August, 1804, completed a treaty at St.
Louis, whereby over 51,000,000 acres of land were obtained.
1 During this year, Congress granted a township of land
for the support of a college and began to offer inducements
for settlers in these wilds, and the country now comprising
the state of Jlichigan began to fill rapidly ■^vith settlers
along its southern borders. This same year a law was
passed organizing the south-west territory, dividing it into
two portions, — the territory of New Orleans, which city was
made the seat of government, and the district of Louisiana,
which was annexed to the domain by General Harrison.
On the 11th of January, 1805, the territory of Michigan
was formed, and Wm. Hull appointed governor, with head-
quarters at Detroit, the change to take effect June 30th.
On the lllh of that month, a fire occurred at Detroit, which
destroyed most every building in the place. When the
officers of the new territory reached the post, they found it
in ruins, and the inhabitants scattered throughout the coun-
try. Rebuilding, however, was commenced at once. While
this was being done, Indiana passed to the second grade of
government. In 1809, Indiana territory was divided, and
the territory of Illinois was formed, the seat of government
being fixed at Kaskaskia, and through her General Assem-
bly had obtained large tracts of laud from the Indian tribes.
To all this the celebrated Indian Tecumthe, or Tecumseh,
vigorously protested,* and it was the main cause of his
attempts to unite the various Indian tribes in a conflict with
the settlers. He visited the principal tribes, and succeeded
in forming an alliance with most of the tribes, and then
joined the cause of the British in the memorable war of 1812.
Tecumseh was killed at the battle of the Thames. Tecum-
seh was, in many respects, a noble character, — frank and
honest in his intercour.se with General Harrison and the
settlers ; in war, brave and chivalrous. His treatment of
prisoners was humane. In the summer of 1812, Perry's vic-
tory on Lake Erie occurred, and shortly after, active pre-
parations were made to capture Fort Jlalden. On the 27th
of September, the American army under command of
General Harrison, set sail for the shores of Canada, and, in
a few hours, stood around the ruins of Maiden, from which
the British army under Proctor had retreated to Sandwich,
intending to make its way to the heart of Canada by the
valley of the Thames. On the 29th, General Harrison was
at Sandwich, and General McArtliur took possession of
Detroit and the territory of Michigan. On the 2d of Octo-
ber following, the American army began their pursuit of
Proctor, whom they overtook on the 5th, and the battle of
the Thames followed. The victory was decisive, and practi-
cally closed the war in the north-west. In 1806, occurred
Burr's insurrection. He took possession of an island in the
Ohio, and was charged with treasonable intentions against
the Federal government. His capture was eifected by
General Wilkinson, acting under instruction of President
JeffL-rson. Burr was brought to trial on a charge of treason,
and, after a prolonged tri.al, during which he defended him-
self with great ability, he was acquittcd.of the charge of
treason. His subsequent career was obscure, and he died
in 1836. Had his scheme succeeded, it would be interesting
to know what effect it would have had on the north-we tern
territory. The battle of tlie Thames was fought October
6th, 1813. It effectually closed hostilities in the north-west,
although peace was not restored until July 22d, 1814, when
a treaty was made at Greenville, by General Harrison, be-
tween the United States and the Indian tribes. On the 24th
of December, the treaty of Ghent was signed by the repre-
sentatives of England and the United States. This treaty
was followed the next year by treaties with various Indian
tribes throughout the north-west, and quiet was again
restored.
PKE.SENT CONDITION OF THE NOKTII-WEST.
In former chapters we have traced briefly the discoveries,
settlements, wars, and most important events which have
occurred in the large area of country denominated the
* A;iurican State Papers
niSTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUSTIES, ILLINOIS.
25
north-west, and we now turn to the contemplation of its
growth and prosperity. Its people are among the most
intelligent and cnterpiising in the Union. Tlie population
is steadily increasing, the arts and sciences are gaining a
stronger foothold, the trade area of the region is becoming
daily more extended, and we have been largely exempt from
the financial calamities which have nearly wrecked com-
muniries on the seaboard, dependent wholly on foreign com-
merce or domestic manufacture. Agriculture is the leading
feature in our industries. This vast domain has a sort of
natural geographical border, save where it melts away to
the southward in the cattle- raising districts of the south-
west. The leading interests will be the growth of the food
of the world, in which branch it has already outstripped all
competitors, and our great rival will be the fertile fields of
Kansas, Kobra^ka, Colorado, Texas and Now Mexico.
To attempt to give statistics of grain productions for 1880
would require more .space than our work would permit of.
Manufacturing has now attained in the chief cities a foot-
hold that bids fair to render the north-west independent of
the outside world. Nearly our whole region has a distribu-
tion of coal measure which will in time support the manu-
factures necessary to our comfort and prosperity. As to
transportation, the chief factor in the production of all articles
except food, no section is so magnificently endowed, and
our fac'.litics are yearly increasing beyond those of any
other region.
The principal tradeand manufacturing centres of the great
north-west are Chicago, St. Louis, Cincinnati, Indianapolis,
Detroit, Clev-^land and Toledo, with any number of minor
cities and towns doing a large and growing business. The
intelligence and enterprise of its people ; the great wealth of
its soil and minerals; its vast inland seas and navigable
rivers ; its magnificent railroad .system ; its patriotism and
love of country will render it ever loyal in the future as in
the past. The people of the Mississippi Valley are the key-
stone of the national union and national prosperity.
CHAPTER [I
BRIEF msroniCAL sketch of ILLINOIS.
^ EGINNING the history of this great State
wo direct attention briefly to the discovery
nnd exploration of the MUilnnippi. Hernando
Ue Soto, cutting his way through the wilder-
ness from Florida, had discovered the Missis-
sippi in the year 1.542. Wasted with disease
and privation, he only reached the stream
to die upon its banks, and the remains of
the ambitious and iron-willed Spaniard found
a fitting resting-place beneath the waters of the great river.
The chief incitement to Spanish discoveries in America was
a thirst for gold and treasure. The discovery and settle-
ment of the Mississippi Valley on the part of the French
must, on the other hand, be ascribed to religious zeal.
Jesuit missionaries, from the French settlements on the St.
Lawrence, early penetrated to the region of Lake Huron.
It was from the tribes of Indians living iu the West, that
intelligence came of a noble river flowing south. Marquette,
who had visited the Chippewas in 16G8, and established
the mission of Sault Ste. Marie, now the oldest settlement
within the present commonwealth of Michigan, formed the
purpose of its exploration.
The following year he moved to La Poiute, in Lake
Superior, where he instructed a branch of the Hurons till
1G70, when he removed south and founded the mission at
St. Ignace, on the Straits of Mackinaw. In company with
Joliet, a fur-trader of Quebec, who had been designated by
M. Talon, Intendcnt of Canada, as chieftain of the explor-
ing party, and five French voyageurs, Marquette, on the
10th of June, 1073, set out on the expedition. Crossing
the water-shed dividing the Fox from the Wisconsin rivers,
their two canoes were soon launched on the waters of the
latter. Seven days after, ou the 17th of June, they joy-
fully entered the broad current of the Mississippi. Stopping
six days on the western bank, near the mouth of the Des
Moines River, to enjoy the hospitalities of the Illinois
Indians, the voyage was resumed, and after passing the
perpendicular rocks above Alton, on whose lofty limestone
front were painted frightful representations of monsters,
they suddenly come upon the mouth of the Missouri, known
by its Algonquin name of Pekitanoni, whose swift and
turbid current threatened to engulf their frail canoes. The
site of St. Louis was an unbroken forest, and further down
the fertile plain bordering the river reposed in peaceful
solitude, as, early in July, the adventurers glided past it.
They continued their voyage to a point some distance below
the mouth of the Arkansas, and then retraced their course
up the river, arriving at their Jesuit Mission at the head of
Green Bay, late in September.
Robert Cavalier de La Salle, whose illustrious name is
more intimately connected with the exploration of the
Mississippi than that of any other, was the next to descend
the river, in the early part of the year 1082. La Salle was a
man of remarkable genius, possessing the power of originating
the vastest schemes, and endowed with a will and a judgment
capable of carrying them to successful results. Had ample
facilities been placed by the king of France at his disposal,
the result of the colonization of this continent might have
been far different from what we now behold. He was born
in Rouen, France, in 1043, of wealthy parentage, but he
renounced his patrimony on entering a college of the Jesuits
from which he separated and came to Canada a poor man
in 1G6G. The priests of St. Sulpice, among whom he had a
brother, were then the proprietors of Montreal, the nucleuii
of which was a seminary or convent founded by tiiat order.
The Superior granted to La Salle a large tract of laud at
La Chine, where he established himself in the fur trade.
He was a man of daring genius, and outstripped all his
competitors in exploits of travel and commerce with the
Indians. In 1009 he visited the headquarters of the great
Iroquois Confederacy, at Onondaga, in the heart of New
26
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
York, anil obtaining guides, explored tlic Ohio River to the
falls at Louisville.
In order to understand the intrepid genius of La Salle,
it must be remembered that for many years prior to his
time the missionaries and traders were obliged to make their
■way to the North west by the Ottaway River (of Canada),
on account of tho fierce hostility of the Iroquois along the
lower lakes and Niagara River, which entirely closed this
latter route to the Upper Lakes. They carried on their
commerce chiefly by canvas, paddling them through the
Ottaway to Lake Nipissiug, carrying them across the port-
age to French River, and descending that to Luke Huron.
Tills being the route by which they reached the North-west,
accounts for the foct that all the earliest Jesuit missions
were established in the neighborhood of the Upper Lakes.
La Salle conceived the grand idea of opening the route by
Niagara River and the Lower Lakes to Canadian commerce
by sail vessels, connecting it with the navigation of the
Mississippi, and thus opening a magnificent water coramuni-
catiou from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the Gulf of Mexico.
This truly grand and comprehensive purpose seems to
have auiniated him iu all his wonderful achievements and
the matchless difficulties and hardships he surmounted.
As the fir^t step in the accomplishment of this object he
established himself on Lake Ontario, and built and gar-
risoned Fort Frontenac, the site of the present city of
Kingston, Canada. Here he obtained a grant of land from
tho French crown and a body of troops by which he beat
back the invading Iroquois and cleared the passage to
Niagara Falls. Having by this masterly stroke made it
safe to attempt a hitherto untried expedition, his next step
as we have seen, was to advance to the falls with all his
outfit for building a ship with which to sail the lakes. He
was successful iu this undertaking, though his ultimate pur-
prise was defeated by a strange combination of untoward
circumstances. The Jesuits evidently hated La Salle and
plotted against him, because he had abandoned them and
co-operatcJ with a rival order. The fur traders were also
jealous of his superior success iu opening new channels of
commerce. At La Chine ho had taken the trade of Lake
Ontario, which but for his presence there would have gone
to Quebec While they were plodding with their bark
canoes through tho Ottaway he was constructing vessels to
command the trade of the lakes and the Mississippi. These
great plans excited the jealousy and envy of the small
traders, introduced treason and revolt into the ranks of his
own companions, and finally led to the foul assassination by
which his great achievements were prematurely ended. In
1G82, La Sallo, having completed his vessel at Peoria,
descended the Mississippi to its confluence with the Gulf of
Mexico. At its mouth he erected a column, and decorating
it with the arms of France, placed upon it the following
inscription :
LOUIS LE GRAND, ROI DE FRANCE ET DE NAVARRE REGNE ;
LE NEUVIEME AVRIL, 1682.
Thus France, by right of discovery, lay claim to the
Mississippi Valley, the fairest portion of the globe, an
empire iu extent, stretching from the Gulf to the Lakes,
and from the farthest sources of the Ohio to where the head
waters of the Missouri are lost iu the wild solitudes of the
Rocky Mountains. La Salle bestowed upon the territory
the name of Louisiana, in honor of the King of France,
Louis XIV.
The assertion has been made that on La Salle's return up
the river, in tlie summer of 1682, a portion of the party
were left behind, who founded the village of Kaskaskia aud
Cahokia, but the statement rests ou no substantial foun-
dation.
THE FIRST SETTLEMENTS IN ILLINOIS.
The gentle and pious Marquette, devoted to his purpose
of carrying the gospel to the Indians, had established a
mission among the Illinois, in 1675, at their principal town
on the river which still bear stheir name. This was at the
present town of Utica, in La Salle County. In the presence
of the whole tribe, by whom, it is recorded, he was received
as a celestial visitor, he displayed the sacred pictures of the
Virgin Mary, raised an altar, and said mass. Oa Easter
Sunday, after celebrating the mystery of the Eucharist, he
took possession of the land in the name of the Saviour of
the world, and founded the "Mission of the Immaculate
Conception." The town was called Kaskaskia, a name
afterwards transferred to another locality. The founding
of this mission was the last act of Marquette's life. He
died in Michigan, on his way back to Green Bay, May 18,
lOT.'i.
La Salle, while making preparations to descend tho
Mississippi, built a fort, on the Illinois River, below the
Lake of Peoria, iu February, 1680, aud iu commemoration
of his misfortunes, bestowed upon it the name of Crevecocio;
" broken-hearted." Traces of its embankments are yet dis-
cernible. This was the first military occupation of Illinois.
There is no evidence, however, that settlement was begun
there at that early date.
On La Salle's return from this exploration of the ]Missis-
sippi, in 1682, he fortified " Starved Rock," whose military
advantages had previously attracted his- attention. From
its summit, which rises 125 feet above the waters of the
river, tho valley of the Illinois speeds out before the eye in
landscape of rarest beauty. From three sides it is inacces-
sible. This stronghold received the name of the Fort of
St. Louis. Twenty thousand allied Indians gathered round
it on the fertile plains. The fort seems to have been aban-
doned soon after the year 1700.
Marquette's mission (1675), Crevecoeur (_\68Q), and the
Fort of St. Louij (1682), embrace, so far, all the attempts
made towards eflecting anything like a permanent settle-
ment in the Illinois country. Of the second few traces
remain. A line of fortifications may be faintly traced, and
that is all. The seed of civilization planted by the Jesuit,
Marquette, among the Illinois Indians, was destined to pro-
duce more enduring fruit. It was the germ of Kaskaskia,
during the succeeding years of the French occupation— the
metropolis of the Mississippi Valley. The southern Kas-
kaskia is merely the northern one transplanted. The
Mbbion of the Immaculate Conception is the fame.
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPII, MOXROE AND FERRY COIWTIES, ILLIXOIS.
27
FOUSDIXG OF KASKASKI.V.
On the doatli of Marquette, he was succeeded by Alloiicz,
aud he by Father Gravicr, who respectively had charge of
the Jliition on the Illinois River Gravicr is said to have
been the first to reduce the principles of the Illinois lan-
guage to rules. It was also he who succeeded in trans-
ferring Marquette's Jlission from the banks of the Illinois
south to the spot where stands the modern town of Kas-
kaskia, and where it was destined to endure. The exact
date is not known, but the removal was accomplished some
time prior to the year 1G85, though probably not earlier
than li;S2.
Father Gravier was subsequently recalled to JIackinaw,
and his place was supplied by Binetcau aud Pinet. Pinet
proved an eloquent aud successful minister, and his chapel
was often insufficient to hold the crowds of savages who
L^^thcrod to hear his words. Binetcau met with a fate
similar to that which befell many another devoted priest iu
his heroic labors for the conversion of the savages. He
accompanied the Kaskaskias on one of their annual hunts
to the upper jMississi]ipi, that his pastoral relations might
not suifir intermission. His frame was poarly fitttd to
stand the exposure. Parched by day on the burning
prairie, chilled by heavy dews at night, now panting with
thirst and agiin aching with cold, he at length fell a
victim to a violent fever, and " left his bones on the wilder-
ness range of the buffaloes." Pinet .shortly after followed
his comrade.
Father Gabriel Jlorrcst had previously arrived at Kus-
kaskia. He was a Jesuit. He had carried the emblem of
bis faith to the frozen regions of Hudson's Bay, and had
been taken prisoner by the English, and upon his liberation
returned to America, and joined the Kaskaskia Mission.
After the deaths of Bincteau and Piaet, he had sole charge
until joined by Father Mermet shortly after the opening of
the eighteenth century.
The devotion an<l piety of Mermet fully equalled those of
his companion. lie had assisted in collecting a village of
Indians and Canadians, and had thus founded the first
French port on the Ohio, or, as the lower pare of the river
was then called, the Waba.sh. At the Kaskaskia Mission
his gentle virtues and fervid eloquence seem not to have been
without their influence. " At early dawn his pupils came
to church dressed neatly and modestly, each in a large deer-
skin, or in a robe stitched together from several skins.
After receiving lessons they chanted canticles; mass was
then said in presence of all the Christians in the place, the
French and the converts — the women on one side and the
men on the other. From prayer and instruction the mis-
sionaries proceeded to visit the sick aud administer medicine,
and their skill as physicians did more than all the rest to
win confidence. In the afternoon the catechism was taught
iu the presence of the young and the old, when every one,
without distinction of rank or age, answered the questions of
the missionary. At evening all would assemble at the
chapel for instruction, for prayer, and to chant the hymns
of the church. On Sundays and festivals, even after vespers
a homily was pronounced ; at the close of the day parties
would meet in houses to recite the chaplct in alternate
choirs, and sing psalms until late at night. These psalms
were often homilies with words set to familiar tunes. Satur-
day and Sunday were days appointed for confession and
communion, and evcrj' convert confessed once in a fortnight-
The success of the mission was such that marriages of
French immigrants were sometimes solemnized with the
daughters of the Illinois according to the rites of the
Catholic Church. The occupation of the country was a
cantonment of Europeans among the native proprietors of
the forests and the prairies.* A court of law was unknown
for nearly a century, aud up to the time of B jisbriant there
was no local government. The priests possessed the entire
confidence of the community, and their authority happily
settled, without the tardy delays and vexations of the courts,
the minor difficulties which threatened the peace of the
settlement. Of the families which formed part of the
French population iu the early history of Kaskaskia, there
is some uncertainty. There is, however, authority for
believing that the following were among the principal
settlers: Bazyl La Chapelle, ]\Iichael Derousc, (called St.
Pierre), Jeau Baptiste St. Gemme Beauvais, Bapti.stc Jlon-
treal, Boucher do Montbrun, Charles Danie, Francois
Charlesville, Antoinc Bienvenu, Louis Bruyat, Alexis Doza,
Joseph Paget, Prix Pagi, Michael Autoyen, Lauglois Do
Lisle, La Derrou.to aud XovaL
AS FAI'.T OF I.OriSIAXA.
The settlements of Illinois had been a separate depend-
ency of Canada. In 1711, together with the settlements on
the Lower Mississippi, which had been f.)unded by D' Iber-
ville and Bienville, they becanij united in a single province
under the name of Louisiana, with the capital at Mobile.
The exclusive control of the commerce of this region,
whose boundless resources, it was believed, were to enrich
France, was granted to Anthony Crozat, a merchant of
great wealth. "We permit him," says the king in his
letters patent, " to search, open, and dig all mines, veins,
minerals, precious stones and pearls, and to transport the
proceeds thereof into any i)art of France for fif^.'cn years."
La Motte Cadillac, who had now become royal Governor of
Louisiana, was his partner. Hopes of obtaining great
quantities of gold and silver animated the proprietors, as
well as agitated France. Two pieces of silver ore, left at
Kaskaskia by a traveler from Mexico, were exliibiied to
Cadillac as the pro.luce of a mine in Illinois. Elated by
this prospect of wealth, the Governor hurried up the river
to find his anticipations fade away iu disappointment. Iron
ore and the purest lead were discovered iu large quantiti.'s
in Missouri, but of gold, and silver, and precious stones not
a trace was found. After Crozat had expended 42-J,000
livrcs, and realized only 330,000, he, in 1717, petitioueil the
king for the revocation of his charter. Tiio white popula-
tion had slowly increased ; and at the time of his departure
it was estimated that the families comprising the lilin.ns
settlements, now including those on the Vv'abash, numbered
three hundred and twenty souls.
* Eancroft.
28
lllSTOUy OF HANDOLFH, MONROE A XL) FERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
The commerce of Louisiana was next transferred to the
Mississippi Company, iustitutod under the auspices of the
notorious John Law. The wild excitement and visionary
schemes which agitated France during Law's connection
with the Company of the West, and while at the head of
the Bank of France, form the most curious chapter in the
annals of commercial speculations. These delusive dreams
of wealth were based mainly upon the reports of the fabu-
lous riches of the Mississippi Valley. Attempts to colonize
the couatry were conducted with careless prodigality.
Three ships landed eight hundred emigrants in August,
1718, near Mobile, whence they were to make their way
overland to the Mississippi. Bienville, on the banks of that
river, had already selected the spot for the Capital of the
new Empire, which, after the Regent of France, was named
New Orleans. From among the emigrants, eighty convicts
from the prisons of France were sent to clear away the
coppices which thickly studded the site. Three years after
in 1721, the place was yet a wilderness, overgrown with
canebrakes, among which two hundred persons had en-
camped.
Phillip Renault was created Director-General of the
mines of the new country, and an expedition was organized
to work them. Renault left France, in 1719, with two
hundred mechanics and laborers. Touching at San Domingo
he bought five hundred negro slaves for working the mines.
On reaching the Mississippi, he sailed to Illinois, the region
in which gold and silver were supposed to abound. A few
miles from Kaskaskia, in \fhat is now the south-west corner
of Monroe County, was the seat of his colony. The village
which he founded received the name of St. Phillip's. From
this point various expeditions were sent out in search of the
precious metals. Drewry's Creek, in Jackson County, was
explored ; St. Mary's, in Randolph ; Silver Creek, in
Monroe; and various parts of St. Clair County, and other
districts of Illinois. On Silver Creek, tradition has it that
considerable quantities of silver were discovered and sent to
France, and from this the stream has its name. By the
retrocession of the territory to the crown, Renault was left
to prosecute the business of mining without means. His
operations proved a disastrous failure.
FORT CHARTRES.
Meanwhile war had sprung up between France and Spain
and to protect the Illinois settlements from incursions of
Spanish cavalry across the Great Desert, it was thought
advisable to establish a fort in the neighborhood of Kas-
kaskia. A Spanish expedition had, indeed, been fitted out
at Santa Fe, but their guides, leading it by mistake to the
Missouri Indians, instead of the O^ages, enemies instead of
friends, the whole party was massacred, with the exception
of a priest who escaped to relate the fate of his unfortunate
comrades. Previous to this La Salle, on the occasion of his
visit to Paris, had shown the necessity of building a chain
of forts from Canada to the Gulf, in order to secure the
territory to the crown of France. In 1718, Boisbriant was
despatched to Illinois. He began the building of Fort
Chartres, long the strongest fortress on the Western Conti-
nent, and of wide celebrity in the subsequent history of
Illinois.
Fort Chartres stood on the east bank of the Mississippi,
seventeen miles north-west of Kaskaskia, and between three
and four miles from the location of the present village of
Prairie du Rocher. The Company of the West finally built
their warehouses here. In 1721, on the division of Louisi-
ana into seven districts, it became the headquarters of Bois-
briant, the first local Governor of Illinois. Fort Chartres
was the seat of the Government of Illinois, not only while
the French retained possession of the country, but after it
passed under English control. When the fort was built, it
stood about one mile distant from the river. In the year 1724
an inundation of the Mississippi washed away a portion of
bank in front of the fort.
Captain Philip Pitman visited Illinois in 1766. He was
an engineer in the British army, and was sent to Illinois to
make a survey of the forts, and report the condition of the
country, which had recently passed under British control.
He published in London, in 1770, a work entitled, " The
present State of the European Settlements on the Missis-
sippi," in which he gives an accurate description of Fort
Chartres :
" Fort Chartres, when it belonged to France, was the seat
of the government of the Illinois. The headquarters of the
English commanding officer is now here, who, in fact, is the
arbitrary governor of the country. The fort is an irregular
quadrangle. The sides of the exterior polygon are four hun-
dred and ninety feet. It is built of stone, and plastered over,
and is only designed for defence against the Indians. The
walls are two feet two inches thick, and are pierced with
loopholes at regular distances, and with two port holes for
cannon in the facies, and two in the flanks of each bastion.
The ditch has never been finished. The entrance to the fort
is through a very handsome rustic gate. Within the walls
is a banquette raised three feet, for the men to stand on when
they fire through the loopholes. The buildings within the
fort are, a commandant's and a commissary's house, the
magazine of stores, corps de garde, and two barracks., ,These
occupy the square. Within the gorges of the bastion are a
powder-magazine, a bake-house, and a prison, in the floor of
which are four dungeons, and in the upper, two rooms and
an out-house belonging to the commandant. The command-
ant's house is thirty-two yards long and ten broad, and con-
tains a kitchen, a dining-room, a bed-chamber, one small
room, five closets for servants, and a cellar. The commis-
sary's house is built on the same line as this, and its propor-
tion and the distribution of its apartments are the same.
Opposite these are the store-house, and the guard- house, each
thirty yards long and eight broad. The former consists of
two large store rooms, (under which is a large vaulted cellar),
a large room, a bed-chamber, and a closet for the storekeeper.
The latter of a soldiers' and officers' guard-room, a chapel,
a bed-chamber, a closet for the chaplain, and an artillery
store-room. The lines of barracks have never been finished.
They at present consist of two rooms each for oflicers, and
three for soldiers. They are each twenty-five feet square,
and have betwixt a small passage."
HISTORY OF RAynOLPH, MONROE AXD PERRY COL'XriES, ILLJXOIS.
29
Such was Fort Chartres, believed at the lime to be tlie
most convenient and best built stronghold in North America !
Just before the French surrender, forty families lived in the
neighboring village, in which stood a parish church, under
the care of a Franciscan friar, and dedicated to St. Anne.
At the time of the surrender to the English, all, with the
exception of three or four families, abandoned their homes,
and removed to the west bank of the Mississippi, preferring
the government of La Belle France to the hated English
rule, ignorant that by secret treaty the territory west
of the Mississippi had been ceded to Spiin, even before
the transfer of the region eastward was made to the
English.
But the glnry of the old fortress soon departed! In 17.56
nearly lialf a mile intervened between Fort Chartres and the
bank of the Mississippi. A sand bar, however, was forming
opposite, to which the river was fordable. Ten years later
the current had cut the bank away to within eighty yards of
the fort. The sand-bar had become an island, covered with
a thick growth of cottonwoods. The channel between it
and the eastern bank was forty feet in depih. In the great
freshet .'■ix years af.er, in 1772, in which the American B(it-
tora was inundated, the west walls and two of the bastions
were swept away in the ilood. It was abandoned by the
British garrison, which took up its quarters in Fort Gage,
on the bluff opposite Kaskaskia, which then became the seat
of government. From this date its demolition proceeded
rapidly. In 1820 the south-east angle was still remaining.
Only vestiges of the old Fortress can now ba traced. Much
of the stone was carried away, and used for building pur-
po?es elsewhere. Trees of stately growth cover the founda-
tions. The river has retreated to its original channel, and
is now a mile distant from the ruins. A growth of timber
covers the intervening land, where less than a century ago
swept the mighty current of the Father of Waters.
UXDER FREXCn RULE.
During the few years immediately succeeding the comple-
tion of Fort Chartres, prosperity preyailed in the settlements
between the Kaskaskia and the Miss'ssippi rivers. Prairie
du Rocher, founded about the year 1722, received consider-
able accessions to its population. Among the earliest French
settlers to make their homes here were Etienne Langlois,
Jean Baptiste Blais, Jean Baptiste Barbeaux, Antoine
Louvier, acd the La Ccmipte and other families, whose de-
scendants are still found in that locality. New settlements
sprang up, and the ohler ones increased in population. At
Kaskaskia, the Jesuits established a monastery, and founded
a college. lu 1723 the village became an incorporated town,
and the king, Louis XV., granted the inhabitants a com-
mons. The Bottom land, extending upward along the !Mis-
sissippi, unsurpassed for the richness of its soil, was in the
process of being rapidly settled by the larger number of new
arrivals in the colony. Fort Chartres, the seat of govern-
ment and the headquarters of the commandment of L^pper
Louisiana, attracted a wealthy, and for Illinois, a fashionable
population.
After having been fourteen years under the government
of the Western Company, in April, 17^2, the king issued a
proclamation by which Louisiana was declared free to all his
subjects, and all restrictions on commerce were removed.
At this time many flourishing settlements had sprung up in
Illinois, centering about Kaskaskia,and the inhabitants were
said to be more exclusively devoted to agriculture than in
any other of the French settlements in the West.
M. D'Artaguette, in 17o2, became commandant of Fort
Chartres, and Governor of Upper Louisiana. Between New
Orleans and Kaskaskia the country was yet a wilderness.
Communication by way of the Mississippi was interrupted
by tlie Chickasaws, allies of the English and enemies of
France, whose cedar barks shooting boldly out into the cur-
rent of the Mississippi, cut off the connection between the
two colonies. It was in an attempt to subdue these that
JI. D'Artaguette, the commandant, lost h's life. An officer
arrived at Fort Chartres from M. Prcrricr, GovornorGencral
at New Orleans, in the year 1736, .summoning IM. D'Arta-
guette, '.vith his French soldiei's, and all the Indians whom
he could induce to join him, to xznite in an expedition against
the enemy. With an army of fifty Fronchmrn, and more
than one thojsand Indians accompanied by Father Senat
and the gallant Vincennes, commandant of the post on the
Wabash, where now stands the city bearing his name,
D'Artaguette stole cautiously in the Chickasaw country.
His Indian allies were impatient, and the commander con-
sented, against his better judgment, to an immediate attack.
One fort was carried — another — and then in making the as-
sault on the third, the young and intrepid D'Artaguette fell
at the head of his forces, pierced with wounds. The Indian
allies made this reverse the signal for their flight. The
Jesuit Senat might have fled, Vincennes might have saved
his life, but both preferred to share the fate of their leader.
The captives afterward met death at the stake under the shnv
torments of fire.
La Buissoniere succeeded as commau<iant at Fort Chartres.
In 1739 a second expedition was undertakcu against the
(" lickasaw country. L:i Buissoniere joined Bienville, then
Governor-General of Louijiana, with a force of two hun<lred
Frenchmen and three hundred Indians. The whole force
under Bienville was twelve hundred French and five hun-
dred Indians and negroes. His men suffered greatly from
malarial fevers and famine, and returned the following
spring without conquering the Chickasaws, with whom after-
ward, however, amicable relations were established.
The period from 1740 to 1750 was one of great prosperity
fir the colonies. Cotton was introduced and cuhivated.
Regular cargoes of pirk, fljur, bacon, tallow, hides and
leather, were fl )ated d )wu the Mississippi, and exported
thence to France. French emigrants p)urad rapidly into
the settlements. Canadians exchanged the cold rigors of
their climate for the sunny atmosphere and rich .soil of the
new country. Peace and plenty blessed the settlements.
La Buissoniere was followed, in 1750, by Chevalier Ma-
carty as Governor of Upper Louisiana, and Commandant of
Fort Chartres. Peace wis soon to be broken. The French
and English war, which terminated in 1759 with the defeat
of Montcalm on the plains of Abraham, and the capture of
30
BJSTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AYD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Quebec, began with a struggle for the territory on the Upper
Ohio. Fort Chartres was the clegot of supplies and the place
of rendezvous for the united forces of Louisiana, and several
expeditions were fitted out and dispatched to the scene of con-
flict on the b;irJer between the French and English settle-
ments. But France was vanquished in the struggle, and its
result deprived her of her princely possessions east of the
Mississippi.
CHARACTER OF THE E\RLY FRENCH SETTLERS.
Til'! early French inhabitants were well adapted by their
peculiar traits of character for intercourse with their savage
neighbors of the f )rest, with whom th:!y lived on terms of
peace and friendship. For this reason, the French colonists
almost entirely escaped the Indian hostilities by which the
English settlements were repressed and weakened. The
freest communication existed between the two races. They
stood on a footing of equality. The Indian was cordially
received in the French village, and the Frenchman found a
safe resting-place in the lodg 3 of the savaga. In see les of
social pleasure, in expeditions to remote rivers and distant
forests, in the ceremonies and exercises of the church, the
red men were treated as brothers, and the accident of race
and color was made as little a mark of distinction as possi-
ble. Frequent intermarriages of the French with the In-
dians strongly cemented this union. For nearly a hundred
years the French colonists enjoyed continual peace, while the
English settlements on the Atlantic coast were in a state of
almost constant danger from savage depredations.
It was doubtless greatly owing to the peculiar facility with
which the French temperament adapted itself to surround-
ings, and the natur.il address with which Frenchmen ingra-
tiated themselves in the favor of the savages, that this happy
condition of affairs exi.-ted. But something must be ascribed
to the differences of character between the French and Eng-
lish in regard to their aggressiveness. The English colonists
excited the jealousy and fear of the Indians by their rapid
occupation of the country. New settlements were constantly
being projected, and the white population pushed farther
and farther into the wilderness. When the Indians saw
their favorite haunts broken up, and their hunting grounds
invaded, a natural feeling of distrust and jealousy led them
to warfare against the English. With the French it was
diffijrent. There w.as but little disposition to found new
settlements, or occupy the wilderness. They were essentially
a social people, and the solitary life of a pioneer in the forest
was repugnant to their disposition. They lived in compact
villages. Their houses were in close proximity. With
abundant room for spacious streets, they yet made them so
narrow that the merry villagers could converse with ease
across the street, each from his own cottage. Hunting was
a favorite pursuit, and the chief means of support. With
this mode of life the French were content. Ambition failed
to incite them to conquer the wilderness, and push their set-
tlements to unknown regions, and avarice was wanting to
lead them to grasp after great possessions. The development
of the "territorial paradise," as La Salle had called the re-
gion through which he passed on his first voyage down the
Mississippi, was to be accomplished by another race.
A POSSESSION OF GREAT BRITAIN.
By the treaty of Fountainbleau, 1702, the vast possessions
of Franco, east of the ^Mississippi, with the exception of the
island of New Orleans, passed under British control. Fort
Chartres and the other Illinois posts were surrounded by an
impenetrable barrier of hostile savages, friends to the French
and enemies to the English, and the French officers were
authorized to retain command until it was found possible for
the Englisli to take possession. M. Neyon de Villiers was
commandant of Fort Chartres, and upon his retiring iu 17G4,
St. Ange d'Bsllerive took upon himself the duties of that
position. It was the time of Pontiac's conspiracy, when the
Indian tribes, inflamed by the savage spirit of that warrior,
were precipitating themselves on the English settlements
from Canada to Carolina. Tlie French commandant of Fort
Chartres was besieged for arras and ammunition to be used
against the English. The French flag was st'll flying over
the Fort, and the fact of the territory having been ceded to
Great Britain was not generally known except to those iu
authority. The commandant was visited by embassies from
the Illinois, the Delawares, Shawnees and Miarais, and
finally Poutiac himself, at tlie head of fmr hundred warriors,
entered the council hall. St. Ang3 d Bellcrive, unable to
furnish arm?, offered instead his good will. The reply was
received with dissatisfaction. The Indians pitched their
lodges about the Fort, and for a time an attack was seriously
apprehended. Finally Poutiao dispatched a chosen band of
warriors to New Orleans to obtain from the Governor there
the assistance St. Ange refused to grant.
Poutiac was killed a few years after. Disappointed by
the failure of his plans against the English, he retired to the
solitude of the forests. In the year 1763, he suddenly made
his appearance in the neigiiborhood of St. Louis. Arrayed
in the French uniform given him by the JIarquis Jlontcalm
a short time previous to the latter's death on the Plains of
Abraham, he visited St. Ange d'Bellerive, who at that time
had removed from Fort Chartres to St. Louis, where he had
become one of the principal inhabitants and commandant of
the Spanish garrison. While at St. Louis, he cro.=sed the
Mississippi to attend a social gathering of Indians at Cahokia.
Becoming intoxicated he started to the neighboring woods,
when an Indian of the Ivaskaskia tribe, bribed by an Eng-
lish trader with a barrel of whiskey, stole up behind hira and
buried a tomahawk in the brain of the renowned warrior.
St. Ange procured the body, and buried it with all the honors
of war near the fort under his command in St. Louis. The
tramp of a great city now sweeps over his grave.
Two attempts, on the part of the English, to take posses-
sion of Illinois and Fort Chartres, had been made by way of
the Jlississippi, but hostile Indians on the banks of the river
had driven back the expeditions. Meantime a hundred
Highlanders of the Forty-second Regiment, those veterans
" whose battle cry had echoed over the bloodiest fields of
America," had left Fort Pitt, now Pittsburg, and descending
the Ohio, appeared before Fort Chartres while the forests
were yet rich with the varied hues of autumn. St. Ange
yielded up the citadel. It was on the tenth day of October,
1765, that the ensign of France on the ramparts of the Fort
HISTORY OF RAXDOLFII, MONROE AXD PERRY COl'XTIES, ILLIXOIS.
31
gave place to the flag of Great Britain. Kaskaskia had now
been founded ra re than three-fourths of a century.
On the surrender of Fort Chartres, St. Ange with his gar-
rison of twenty-one soldiers retired from the country, and
became commandant at St. Louis, an infant settlement just
founded. A large number of the French residents of Kas-
kaskia and other settlements refused to live under English
rule. Many of the wealthiest families left the country ; some
removed across the Mississippi, to the small village of Ste.
Genevieve, under the impression ihatou the west bank of the
Jlississippi they would still find a home under the govern-
ment of France, while in truth that territory had been ceJed
to Spain by a secret treaty in 1762. Others joined in found-
ing the city of St. Louis. The French settlements in Illinois,
at a period immediately preceding this date, were at the
z-^nith of their prosperity. From that ilay the French in-
habitants have declined in numbers and influence. lu 1765,
the population of the Illinois settlements was computed as
follows: White men able to bear arms, seven hundred; white
women, five hundred ; white children, eight hundred and
fifty; negroes, nine hundred; total, two thousand nine hun-
dred and fifty. One-third of the whites, and a still larger
proportion of the blacks, removed on the British taking pos-
session. A population of less than two thousand remained.
Few English, or Americans, with the exception of the British
troops, were in the country.
Captain Stirling, who now had command of the Fort, issued
a proelamalicin guaranteeing the inhabitants the liberty of
the Catholic faith, permission to retire from the country, and
enjoyment of their full rights and privileges, only requiring
an oath of fidelity and obedience to His JIajesty, the English
King. Captain Stirling died some three months after his
arrival. In the period that elapsed before the coming of his
successor, St. Ange d'Bollerive returned from St. Louis, and
discharged the duties of commandant. JIajor Frazier, from
Fort Pitt, exercised fir a time an arbitrary power, and his
successor. Col. Reed, proved still worse. lie held the office
eighteen months, and during that time aroused the hatred of
the settlements by his oppressive measures. Lieutenant Colo-
nel Wilkins assumed command in 17G8.
Captain Pitman, to whose book on " The Present State of
the European Settlements on the Mississippi" reference has
already been made, gives the following description of Kas-
kaskia, as it appeared in 1766.
The vi'lage of Notre Dame dc Cascasquias is bv far the
most considerable settlement in the country of the I linois,
as well from its number of inhabitants as i"rom its advan-
tageous situation.
" Slons. Paget was the first who introduced wat/^r mills in
this country, and he constructed a very fine one on the river
Cascasquias, which was both for grinding corn and sawing
boards. It lies about one mile from the village. The mill
proved fatal to him, being killed as he was working
it, with two negroes, by a party of Chcrokccs, in the
year 1764.
" The principal buildings arj the church and the Jesuits'
house, which has a small chapel adjoining it; these, as well
as £omo of the other houses in the village, arc built of stone.
and, considering this part of the world, make a very g )od
appearance. The Jesuits' plantation consisted of 240 arpcnts
(an arpent is 83-100 of an acre) of cultivated land, a very
good stock of cattle, and a brewery which was sold by the
French commandant, after the country was ceded to the
Engli.-h, for the crown, in consequence of the supprcsiion of
the order.
" Muns. Beauvais wa- t'lr' purchaser, who is the richest of
the English subjects in this country; he keeps eighty slaves;
he furnishes 86,000 weight of flour to the King's magazine,
which was only part of the harvest he reaped in one year.
Sixty-five families reside in this village, besides merchants,
other casual people, and slaves. The fort which was burnt
down in October, 1766, stood on the summit of a high rock
opposite the village and on the opposite side of the river.
It was an oblong quadrangle, of which the extreme polygon
measured 290 by 2')\ feet. It was built of very thick square
timber, and dove-tailed at the angles. An officer and twenty
soldiers are quartered in the village. The ofliecr governs
the inhabitants under the direction of the commandant at
Fort Chartres. Here are also two companies of mililia."
Of Prairie du Ilocher, Pi:raan writes that " it is a small
village, consisting of twenty-two dwelling-houses, all of which
are inhabited by as many families. Hire is a little chapel,
formerly a chapel of ease to the church at Fort Chartres.
The inhabitants are very industrious, and raise a great deal
of corn and ever)' kind of stock. The village is two miles
from Fort Chartres. It takes its name from its situation,
being built under a rock that runs par.allel with the Miisi-s-
sijjpi river at a league distance, fjr forty miles up. Here \i
a company of militia, the captain of which regulates the
police of the village."
In describing the distance from Fort Cliaitres, the author,
doubtless, rcfjrs to Little Village, which was a mile, or mora
nearer than Prairie du Rocher. The writer goes on to do-
scribe "Saint Philippe" as a "small village about five miles
from Fort Chartres on the road to Kaoquias. There are
about si.^teen houses and a small church standing ; all of the
inhabitants, except the captain of the militia, deserted in
176.3, and went to the French side (Missouri ) The captain
of the militia has about twenty slaves, a good stock of cattle,
and a water mill for corn and planks. The village stands
on a very fine raeadow about one mile from the Mis-
sissippi.
From the same authority we leara that the soil of tha
country is in general rich and luxuriant. It was favorably
adapted to the production of all kin Is of European grains
which grew side by side wit'a hops, hemp, fl.ix, cotton and
tobacco. European fruits arrived to great perfection. Of
the wild grapes a wine was made, vcrj' inebriating, and in
color and taste much like the red wine of Provence. In the
late wars, Xew Orleans and the lower parts of Louisiana
were supplied with flour, bsef, wines, hams, and other pro-
visions, from this country. At present, its commerce is
mostly confined to the peltry and furs which are got in traf-
fic from the Indiana ; for which are received in turn such
European commodities as are necessary to carry on that com-
merce and the support of its inhabitants."
32
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
CONQUEST BY CLARKE.
On tlie breaking out of the AVar of the Revolution, it is
pfobiiblo tiiat the British garrison f removed iu 1'7'2 from
Fort Chartrcs to Fort Gage, opposite Kaskaskia,) liad been
withdrawn. Illinois was remote from the theatre of action,
and the colonists were little disturbed by the rumors of war
which came from the Atlantic coast. Tlie French inhabitants
were rather in sympathy with the Americans than the Eiig-
liirli, but probably understood little of the nature of the
struggle. Illinois belonged to the jurisdiction of Virginia.
George Rogers Clarke, who visited Kentucky in 1775, seems
to have been the first to comprehend the advantages which
would result from the occupation of Illinois by the Ameri-
cans. He visited Virginia, where he laid his plans before
Patrick Henry, the Governor of the State. Clarke received
his instructions, January, 177S, and the following mouth set
out for Pittsburg His instructions were to raise seven com-
panies of men, but he could only succeed in enlisting four
commanded by Captains Montgomery, Bowman, Helm, and
Harrod. On Corn Island, opposite Louisville, on the Ohio,
Clarke announced his destination to the men. At the mouth
of the Tennessee, a man named John Duff was encountered,
with a party of hunters, who had recently visited Kaskaskia,
and also brought the intelligence that one Rocheblave, a
French Canadian, was in command at that point, that he
kept the militia well drilled, and that sentinels were posted
to watch for the " Long Knives," as the Virginians wei'e
called, of whom the inhabitants were in terror. Securing his
boats near Fort Massacre (or Massac,) Clarke undertook the
journey across the country, one hundred and twenty miles,
to Kaskaskia. It was accomplished with difficulty. On the
afternoon of the fourth of July, 1778, the exhausted band of
invaders came to the vicinity of Kaskaskia, and concealed
themselves in the hills to the east of the town. After dark
Clarke proceeded to the old ferry-house, three-fourths of a
mile above the village, and at midnight addressed his troops
on the banks of the river. He divided his force into three
parties. Two were to cro.ss to the west side of the river, and
enter the town from different quarters. The third, under the
direction of Clarke himself, was to capture the fort on the
east side. Kaskaskia at that time was a village of about two
hundred and fifty houses. The British commander last in
charge had instilled in the raindi of the people the impres-
sion that the Virginians, otherwise the " Long Knives," were
a ferocious band of murderers, plundering houses, slaughter-
ing women and children, and committing acts of great atro-
city. Clarke determined to take advantage of this, and so
surprise the inhabitants by fear as to induce them to submit
without resistance. Clarke effected an entrance to the fort
without difficulty. The other parties at a given signal en-
tered Kaskaskia at tiie opposite extremities, and with terri-
ble outcries and hideous noises, aroused the terrified inhabi-
tants, who shrieked in their alarm, "The Long Knives!'
"The Long Knives are here!" Tlie panic stricken towns-
men delivered up their arms, and the victory was accom-
plished without the shedding of a drop of blood. M. Roche-
blave, the British commandant, was unconscious of the pres-
ence of the enemy, till an officer of the detachment entered
his bed-chamber, and claimed him as a prisoner In accord-
ance with his original plan of conquering the inhabitants by
terror, and then afterward winning their regard and grati-
tude by his clemency, Clarke, the next day, withdrew his
forces from the town, and sternly forbade all communication
between it and his soldiers. Some of the principal militia
officers, citizens of the town, were next put in irons- The
terror now reached its height. The priest, and a deputation
of five or six elderly men of the village, called on Clarke,
and humbly requested permission to assemble in t! e church,
to take leave of each other and commend their future lives
to the protection of a msrciful God, since they expected to
be separated, perhaps never to meet again. Clarke gruffly
granted the privilege. The whole population convened at
the church, and after remaining together a long time, the
priest and a few others again waited upon the commander of
the American forces, presenting thanks for the privilege they
had enjoyed, and desiring to know what fate awaited
them.
Clarke now determined to lift them from their despair, and
win their gratitude by a show of mercy. " What!" said he;
" do you take us for savages ? Do you think Americans will
strip women and children, and take bread from their mouths?
My countrymen disdain to make war on helpless innocents."
He further reminded them that the King of France, their
former ruler, was an ally of the Americans, and now fighting
their cause. He told them to embrace the side they deemed
best, and they should be respected in the enjoyment of their
liberty and the rights of property.
The revulsi m of feeling was complete. The good news
spread throughout the village. The church-bell rang a
merry peal, and the delighted inhabitants gathered at the
chapel, where thanks were offered to God for their happy
and unexpected deliverance. The loyalty of the inhabitants
was assured, and ever after they remained fiiithful to the
American cause. The French inhabitants of Kaskaskia
were readily reconciled to a change of government. In
October, 1778, the Virginia Assembly erected the conquered
territory into the County of Illinois. ■ This County embraced
all the region north-west of Ohio, and five large states have
since been formed from it. Colonel Clarke was appointed
military commander of all the western territory north and
south of the Ohio, and Colonel John Todd, one of Clarke's
soldiers, who next to Clarke had been tiie first man to enter
Fort Gage, was appointed lieutenant-commander of Illinois.
In the spring of 1779, Colonel Todd visited Kaskaskia, and
made arrangements for the orga^nization of a temporary
government. Many of the French inhabitants of Kaskaskia,
Prairie du Rocher, and the other settlements, readily took
the oath of allegiance to Virginia. Colonel Todd was killed
at the famous battle of Blue Licks, in Kentucky, August,
1782, and Timothy deMontbrun, a Frenchman, succeeded
him as commandant of Illinois County. Of his administra-
tion but little is known.
THE "compact of 1787."
In 1682 Illinois became a possession of the French crown,
a dependency of Canada, and a part of Louisiana. In 17G5
the English flag was run up on old Fort Chartres, and
HISTORY OF RAXDOLril MOXROE AND PERRY COUNTIES. ILLINOIS.
33
Illinois was counted among the treasures of Great Britain.
In 1779 it was taken from tlie English by Col. George
Rogers Clark : this man was resolute in nature, wise in coun-
cil, prudent in policy, bold in action, and heroic in danger.
Few men who have figured in the early history of America
are more deserving than he. Nothing short of first-class
ability could have rescued " Vincins"and all Illinois from
the English, and it is not possible to over-estimate the in-
fluence of this achievement upon the republic. In 1779,
Illinois became a part of Virginia. It was soon known as
Illinois county. In 1784 Virginia ceded all this territory
to the general government to be cut into states, to be republi-
can in form, with " the same right of sovereignty, freedom
and independence as the other states."
In 1787 it was tiie object of the wisest and ablest legisla-
tion found in any merely human records. No man can
study the secret history of The Compact of 1787 and not
fool that Providence was guiding with sleepless eyes tho.-e
unborn states. The ordinance that on July 13, 1787, finally
became the incorporating act, has a most marvelous histury.
Jefferson had vainly tried to secure a system of government
for the north-western territory. He was an emancipationist
of tliat day, and favored the exclusion of slavery from the
territory Virginia had ceded to the general governnuiit,
but the south voted him down as often as it came up. In
1787, as late as July 10, an orgauizing act without the
anti-slavery clause was pending. This concession to the south
was expected to carry it Congress was in session in New-
York city. 0 1 July '), Rev. Dr. Manassch Cutler, of
Massachusetts, came into New York to lobby on the north-
western territory. Everything seemed to fiiU into his hands.
Events were ripe : the state of the public credit, the growing of
southern prejudice, the basis of his mission, his personal
character, all combined to complete oncoftliosc sudden and
marvelous revolutions of public sentiment that once in five
or ten centuries are seen to sweep over a country like the
breath of the Almighty. Cutler was a remarkable man ; a
graduate of Ynh, he had studied and taken degrees in the
three learned professions, law, clivinity ;iiid medicine, ILir-
vnrd had given him his A. M., and Y<ilr li;iil honored herself
by adding his D. D. He harl thus America's best literary
indorsement. He had published a scientific examination of
the plants of New England. His name stood second only to
that of Franklin as a scientist in America. He was a courtly
gentleman of tlie old style, a man of coramauding presence,
and of inviting face. Thesouthern members were captivated
by his genial manners, rare and profound abilities. He
came representing a company that desired to purchase a
tract of land now included in Ohio, for the purpose of plant-
ing a colony. Government money was worth eighteen cents
on the dollar. This Massachusetts company had collected
enough to purchase 1,500,000 acres of land. Other specu-
lators in New York made Dr. Cutler their agent; on the
12th he represented a demand for 5,500,000 acres. This
would reduce the national debt. Jefferson and Virginia
were regarded as authority concerning the land Virginia
had just ceded. Jefferson's policy wanted to provide for the
public credit, and this was a good opportunity to do some-
thing. Massachusetts then owned the tfrritory of JIaine,
which she was crowding on the market. She was opposed
to opening the north-western region. This fired the zeal of
Virginia. The South caught the inspiration, and all exalted
Dr. Cutler. The English Mini.ster invited him to dine with
some of the Southern gentlemen. He was the centre of in-
terest; the entire South rallied around him. Ma.ssachusetts
could not vote against him, becau.se many of the constituents'
of her members were interested personally in the western
speculation ; thus Cutler, making friends with the south, and
(hmbtless using all the arts of the lobby, was enabled to
command the situation. True to deeper conviction, he
dictated one of the most compact and finished documents of
wise statesmanship that ever adorned any human law book ;
he borrowed from Jelf'erson the term " Articles of Compact,"
which preceding the federal constitution, rose into the most
saered character. He then followed very closely the constitu-
tion of Massachusetts, adopted three years before, — its most
marked points were :
l.~t. The exclusion of slavery from the territory forever.
lid. Provision for public schools, giving one townsliip for
a seminary, and every section numbered 16 in each town-
sliip ; that is, one thirty -sixth of all the land for public
schools.
3d. A provision prohibiting tlie adoption of any consti-
tution, or the enactment of any law that should nullify
jire-existing contracts.
]>e it fir( ver remembered that this compact declared
that " Itcligiou, morality, and knowledge being necessary
to good governmont and the happiness of mankind, schools
and means of education shall always be encouraged." Dr.
Cutler planted himself on this platfirm and would not yield.
Giving his unqualified declaration that it was that or nothing
— that unless they cimid make the land desirable they did
not want it — ho took his horse and gig and started for the
Constitutional Convention in Philadelphia. On July 13,
1787, the bill was put upon its pas.sage, and was unanimously
adopted, every Southern member voting fnr it, and only one
man, ^Ir. Yates of New York, voting against it, but as the
States voted as States, Yates lost his vote, and the conijiact
was put beyond repeal. Then the great States of Ohio, In-
diana, Illinois, Michigan, and 'Wisconsin — a vast empire,
the heart of the great valley — were consecrated to freedom,
intelligence, and honesty. In the light of these ninety-five
years, it is evident to all that this act was the salvation of
the republic and the destruction of slavery. Soon the south
saw their great blunder, and tried to repeal the compact.
In 1803 (Congress referred it to a committee, of which John
Randolph was chairnum. He reported that this ordinance
was a compact, and opposed repeal. Thus it stood a rock
in the way of the on-rushing sea of slavery. With all this
timely aid it was, after all, a most desperate and protracted
struggle to keep the soil of Illinois sacred to freedom. It
was the natural battle field for tlie irrepressible conflict. In
the southern cud of the State slavery preceded the compact.
It existed among the old French settlers, and was hard to
eradicate. The southern part of the State was settled from
the slave States; and this population brought their laws,
34
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND FERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
customs, and institutions with them. A stream of popula-
tion from the Nortli poured into the northern part of the
State , These sections misunderstood and hated each other
perfectly- The Southerners regarded the Yankees as a skin-
ning, tricky, penurious race of peddlers, filling the country
with tinware, brass clocks, and wooden nutmegs. The
Northerner thought of the Southerner as a lean, lank, lazy
creature, burrowing in a hut, and rioting in whisky, dirt
and ignorance. These causes aided in making the struggle
long and bitter. So strong was the sympathy with slavery
that in spite of the ordinance of 1787, and iu spite of the
deed of cession, it was determined to allow the old French
settlers to retain their sl.avos. Planters from the slave
States might bring their slaves, if they would give them a
chance to choose freedom, or years of service and bondage
for their children till they should become thirty years of age.
If they chose freedom they must leave the State iu sixty
days or be sold as fugitives. Servants were whipped for
offences for which white men are fined ; each lash jsaid forty
cents of the fine. A negro ten miles from home without a
pass was whipped. These famous laws were imjiorted from
the slave States, just as they imported laws for the inspec-
tion of flax and wool when there was neither in the State.
These black laws are now wiped out. A vigorous effort was
made to protect .slavery iu the State Constitution of 1818 ; it
barely failed. It was renewed in 1826, when a convention
was asked to make a new constitution. After a hard fight the
convention was defeated ; but slaves did not disappear from
the census of the State until 18.50. There were mobs and
murders in the interest of slavery. Lovcjoy was added to
the list of martyrs — a sort of first fruits of that long line of
immortal heroes who saw freedom aa tiie one supreme desire
of their souls, and were so enamored of her that they pre-
ferred to dis rather than survive her.
LAND TENURES.
The early French settlers held the possession of their land
in common. A tract of land was fixed upon for a Common
Field, in which all the inhabitants were interested.
Besides the Common Field, another tract of land was laid
off on the Commons. All the villagers had free access to
this as a place of pasturage for their stock. From this they
also drew their supply of fuel.
Individual grants were likewise made. Under the French
system, the lands were granted without any equivalent con-
sideration in the way of money, the individuals satisfying
the authorities that the lands were wanted for actual settle-
ment, or for a purpose likely to benefit the community. The
first grant of land, which is preserved, is that made to Charles
Danie, May lOlli, 1722. The French grants at Kaskaskia
extended from river to river, and at other places in the Bot-
tom they commonly extended from river to bluff. Grants of
land were made for almost all the American Bottom, from
the upper limits of the Common Field of St. Phillip's to
the lower line of the Kaskaskia Common Field, a distance
of nearly thirty miles.
The British commandants, who assumed the government
on the cession of the territory by France, exercised the pri-
vilege of making grants, subject to the approval of his Ma-
jesty, the King. Colonel Wilkins granted to some merchants
of Philadelphia a magnificent domain of thirty thousand
acres lying between the village of Kaskaskia and Prairie du
Rocher, much of it already covered by French grants pre-
viously made. For the better carrying out their plans, the
British officers, and perhaps their grantees, destroyed, to
some extent, the records of the ancient French grants at
Kaskaskia, by which the regular claim of titles and convey-
ances was partly broken. This British grant of thirty
thousand acres, which had been assigned to John Edgar,
was afterward patented by Governor St. Clair to Edgar and
John Murray St. Clair, the Governor's son, to whom Edgar
had previously conveyed a moiety by deed. Although much
fault was found with the transaction, a confirmation of the
grant was secured from the United States government.
When Virginia ceded Illinois, it was stipulated that the
French and Canadian inhabitants, and other settlers, who
had professed allegiance to Virginia, should have their
titles confirmed to them. Congress afterwards authorized
the Governor to confirm the possessions and titles of the
French to their lands. In accordance with this agreement.
Governor St. Clair, in 1790, issued a proclamation directing
the inhabitants to exhibit their titles and claims of the lands
which they held, in order to be confirmed in their possession.
Where the instruments were found to be authentic, orders of
survey were issued, the expense of which was borne by the
parties who claimed ownership. The French inhabitants
were in such poverty at this time that they were really una-
ble to pay the exjicnses of the surveys, and a memorial
signed by P. Gibault, the priest at Kaskaskia, and eighty-
seven others, was presented to Governor St. Clair, praying
him to petition Congress for relief in the matter. In 1791,
Congress directed that four hundred acres of land should be
granted to the head of every family which had made improve-
ments in Illinois prior to the year 1788. Congress had also
directed that a donation be given to each of the families then
living at either of the villages of Kaskaskia, Prairie du
Rocher, Cahukia, Fort Chartres, or St. Phillips. These were
known as the " bead-right " claims.
At an early date, speculation became active in the land
claims of different kinds; bead -rights, improvement rights,
militia right', and fraudulent claims were produced in greU
numbers. The French claims were partly unconfirmed,
owing to the poverty of that people, and these were forced
on the market with the others. Tfie official report of the
commissioners at Kaskaskia, made in 1810, shows that eight
hundred and ninety land claims were rejected as being ille-
gal or fraudulent. Three hundred and seventy were
reported as being supported by perjury, and a considerable
number were forged. There are fourteen names given of
persons, both English and French, who made it a regular
business to furnish sworu certificates, professing an intimate
knowledge, in every case, of the settlers who had made cer-
tain improvements upon which claims were predicated and
when and where they were located. A Frenchman, clerk
of the parish of Prairie du Rocher, " without property and
fond of liquor," after having given .some two hundred depo-
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROL AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
35
sitions ia favor of three land claimant speculators, " was
induced,' in the bnguage of the report, " either by compen-
sation, fear, or the impossibility of obtaining absolution on
any O'ther terms, to declare on oath that the said depositions
were false, and that in giving them he had a regard for
something beyond tlie truth."
The report of the commissioners raised many doubts in
regard to the validity and propriety of a number of confir-
mations by the Governors, and much dissatisfaction among
the claimants; and in consequence. Congress in 1812, passed
an act for the revision of these land claims ia the Kaskaskia
district. The commissioners under this law were Michael
Jones, John Caldwell, and Thomas Sloo. Facts damaging
to persons who occupied positions of high respectability in
the community, were disclosed. They reported that tlie
English claim of thirty thousand acres confirmed by Gover-
nor St. Clair to John Edgar and the Governor's son, John
Murray St. Clair, was founded in neither law or equity ; that
the patent was issued after the Governor's power ceased to
exist, and the claim ought not to be confirmed. Congress,
however, confirmed it.
For a period of .several years, emigration was considerably
retarded by the delay in adjusting land titles. The act of
Congress passed in 1813, granting the right of pre-emption
to settlers, was influential in bringing the public lands into
market. Emigrants poured into the country, and improve-
ments were rapid'y made.
rilYSICAI, FK.VTURES OF TIIF. .STATE.
Ia area the State has 55,410 square miles of territ iry. It
is about 150 miles wide and 400 miles long, stretching in
latitude from JIaine to North Carolina. It embraces wide
variety of climate. It is tempered on the north by the great
inland, saltless, tidelcss sea, which helps the thermometer
from either extreme. Being a table-land, from 690 to 1,G00
feet above the level of the sea, one is prepared to find on the
health maps, prepared by the general government, an almost
clean and perfect record. In freedom from fever and mala-
rial diseases and consumptions, the three deadly enemies of
the American Saxon, Illinois, as a State, stands without a
superior. She furnishes one of the essential con<litions of a
great people — sound bodies; we suspect that this fact lies
back of that old Delaware word, Illini, superior men. The
great battles of history havebeen determinative; dynasties and
destinies have been strategical battles, chielly the question of
position ; Thermopyho has been the war-cry of freemen f )r
twenty-four centuries. It only tells how much there may be
in position. All this advantage belong to Illinois. It is in
the heart of the greatest valley in the world, the vast region
between the mountains — a valley that could feed mankind
for a thousand years. It is well on toward the centre of the
continent. It is in the great temperate belt, in which have
beenf)und nearly all the aggressive civilizations of history.
It has sixty-five miles of frontage on the head of Lake Michi-
gan. With the Jlississippi forming the western and south-
ern boundary, with the Ohio running along the south-eastern
line, with the Illinois river and Canal dividing the State
diagonally from the lake to the Lower IMississippi, and with
the Rock and Wabash rivers furnishing altogether 2,000
miles of water-front, connecting with, and running through,
in all about 12,000 miles of navigable water. But this is
not all. These waters are made most available by the fact
that the lake and the State lie on the ridge running into the
great valley from the east. Within cannon-shot of the lake
the water runs away from the lake to the gulf The lake
now empties at both ends, one into the Atlantic and one into
the Gulf of ^lexieo. The lake thus seems to hang over the
land. This makes the dockage most .serviceable; there arc
no steep banks to damage it. Both lake and river are made
for use. The climate varies from Portland to Richmond.
It favors every product of the continent including the tropics,
with less than half a dozen exceptions. It produces every
great nutriment of the world except bananas and rice. It
is hardly too much to .say that it is the most productive spot
known to civilization. With the soil full of bread and the
earth full of minerals; with au upper surfiiceof food and an
under layer of fuel; with perfect natural drainage, and
abundant springs and streams and navigable rivers; half
way between the forests of the North and the fruits of the
South; withiu a day's ride of the great deposits of iron, coal,
copper, lead and zinc: containing and controlling the great
grain, cattle, pork, and lumber markets of the world, it is
not strange that Illinois has the advantage of position. This
advantage has been supplemented by the character of the
population. In the early days when Illinois was first admit-
ted to the union, her population were chiefly from Kentucky
and Virginia. But, in the conflict of ideas concerning sla-
very, a strong tide of immigration came in frori tlie East, ami
soon changed this composition. In 1880, her now native
poj)ulation were from colder soils. New York had furnislied
143,290: Ohio gave 172,023: Pennsylvania 108,352: the
entire South gave us only 210,734. In all her cities, and in
all her German and Scandinavian and other foreign colonics,
Illiiiiiis has only about one-filth of her people of fureigu
birth.
]'R()c:r.Ess OF r)i:vi:i.<iFMi:NT.
Que of the grcat:ist d::velopments in the early history
of Illinois, is the Illinois and Michigan c.uial, connecting tin;
Illinois a:id ;\Iississippi rivers with the lakes. It was of the
utmost importance to the State. It was recommended by
Governor Bund, the first governor, in his first message. Two
bright young engineers surveyed it, and estimated the cost
at 8000,000 or 8700,000. It finally cost 88,000,000. In
1825, a law was passed to incorporate the canal company,
hut no stock was s Id. In 1826, upon the soli^'itation of
Daniel P. Cook, congress gave 800,000 acres of land on the
line of the work. In 1828, another law-commissioner was
appointed, and work commenced with new survey and new
estimates. In 1831-35, George Farquar nuide an able
report on the whole matter. This was, doubtless, the
ablest rejiort ever made to a western legislature, and it be-
came the model for subsequent reports and action. From
this the work went on until it was finished in 1848. It co.-t
tlie State a large amount of money ; but it gave to the indus-
tries of tlio State an impetus that pushed it up into the fir-t
rank of greatness. It was not built as a sprruhuinu. But
it has paid into the Treasury of the State an average annual
36
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
nett sum of over 111,000. Pending the construction of the
canal, the land and town-lot fever broke out in the state, in
1834-35. It took on the malignant type in Chicago, lifting
the town up into a city. The disease spread over the entire
State and adjoining States. It was epidemic. It cut up
men's farms without regard to locality, and cut up the purses
of the purchasers without regard to consequences. There
was no lack of buyei-s ; speculators and money swarmed into
the country. This distemper seized upon the Legislature in
1836-37, and left not one to tell the tale. They enacted a
system of internal improvement without a parallel in the
gjandeur of its conception. Tliey ordered the construction
of 1,300 miles of railroad, crossing the State in all directions.
This was surpassed by the river and canal improvements.
There were a few counties not touched by either railroad or
river or canal, and those were to be comforted and compen-
sated by the free distribution of S'200,000 among them. To
inflate this balloon beyond credence it was ordered that work
should be commenced on both ends of each of these railroads
and rivers, and at each river-crossing, all at the same time.
The appropriations for the vast improvements were over
$12,000,000, and commissioners were appointed to borrow
money on the credit of the State. Remember that all this was
in the early days of railroading, when railroads were luxu-
ries ; that the State had whole counties with scarcely a
cabin, and that the population of the State was less than
400,000, and you can form some idea of the vigor with
which these brave men undertook the work of making a
great State. In the light of history it appears that this was
only a premature throb of the power that actually slumbered
in the soil of the State. It was Hercules in the cradle. At
this juncture the State bank loaned its funds largely to
Godfrey Oilman & Co., and other leading houses for the
purpose of drawing trade from St. Louis to Alton. Soon
they failed, and took down the bank with them. In 1840,
all hope seemed gone. A population of 480,000 were load-
ed with a debt of 814,000,000. It had only six small cities,
really only towns, namely: Chicago, Alton, Springfield,
Qiiincy, Galena and Nauvoo. This debt was to be cared
for when there was not a dollar in the treasury, and when
the State had borrowed itself out of all credit, and when
there was not good money enough in the hands of all the
people to pay the interest of the debt for a single year. Yet
in the presence of all these difficulties the young State
steadily refused to repudiate. Gov. Ford took hold of the
problem and solved it, bringing the State through in trium])h.
Having touched lightly upon some of the most distinctive
points in the history of Illinois, let us next briefly consider
the
MATERIAL RESOURCES OF THE STATE.
It is substantially a garden four hundred miles long and
one hundred and fifty wide. Its soil is chiefly a black sandy
loam, varying from six inches to six feet thick. On the
American Bottoms it has been cultivated for over one hun-
dred and fifty years without renewal. About the old French
towns it, has yielded corn for a century and a half without
rest or help. It produces nearly everything green in the tem-
perate and tropical zones ; she leads any of the other Statf s
in the number of acres actually under plow. Her products
from 2.5,000,000 acresare incalculable. Her mineral wealth
is scarcely second to her agricultural power. She has coal,
iron, lead, copper, zinc, many varieties of building stone,
fire clay, cuma clay, common brick and tile clay, sands of
all kinds, gravel, mineral paint, everything needed for a
high civilization. Left to herself, she has the elements of
all greatness. The single item of coal is too vast for an
appreciative handling in figures. We can handle itin gene-
ral terms, like algebraical signs but long before we get up
into the millions and billions, the human mind drops down
from comprehension to mere symbolic apprehension. Nearly
four-fifths of the entire State is underlaid with a deposit of
coal more than forty feet thick on the average, including all
strata (now estimated by recent surveys, at seventy feet
thick). You can get some idea of its amount, as you do of the
amount of the national debt. There it is, 41,000 square
miles, one vast mine into which you could bury scores of
European and ancient empires, and have room enough
all round to work without knowing that they had been
sepulchered there. Put this vast coal-bed down by the
ather great coal deposits of the world, and its importance
becomes manifest. Great Britain, has 12,000 square miles
of coal; Spain 3,000; France 1,71'J; Belgium .578; Illi-
nois about twice as many square miles as all combined.
Virginia has 20,000 square miles; Pennsylvania, 10,000;
Ohio, 12,000 ; Illinois has 31,000 square miles ; one-seventh
of all the known coal on this continent is in Illinois.
Could we sell the coal in this single State for one-seventh
of one cent a ton it would pay the national debt. Great
Britain uses enough mechanical power to-day to give each
man, woman and child in the kingdom the help and service
of nineteen untiring servants. Ko wonder she has leisure
and luxuries. No wonder the home of the common artisan
has in it more luxuries than could be found in the palace of
good old King Arthur. Think, if you can conceive of it, of
the vastarmy of servants that slumber in Illinois, impatient-
ly awaiting the call of genius to come forth to minister to
our comfort. At the present rate of consumption England's
coal supply will be exhausted in 2o0 years. At the same
rate of consumption (which far exceeds our own) tho deposit
of coal in Illinois will last 120,000 years. L?t us now turn
from this reserve power to tlio
ANNUAL PRODLTCTS
of the State. We shall not bo humiliated in this field. Here
we strike the secret of our national credit. Nature provides
a market in the ^Constant appetite of the race. For several
years past the annu.al production of wheat in Illinois has
exceeded 30,000,000. That is more wheat than was raised
by any other State in the Union ; with corn, she comes for-
ward with 140,000,000 bushels, twice as much as any other
State, and one-sixth of all the corn raised in the Uuited
States. She harvested 2,707,000 tons of hay, nearly one-
tenth of all the hay in the Republic. It is not generally
appreciated, but it is true, that the hay crop of the country
is worth more than the cotton crop ; the hay of Illinois equals
the cotton of Louisiana.
HISlOEi OF EASDOLPH, ilOXEOE A XI) PEEEY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
37
The valuation of her farm implements is 8230,000,000,
and the value of her livestock, is only second to the great
State of New York. She raises from 25,000,000 to 30,000,-
000 hogs annually, and according to the last census packed
about one half of all that were packed in the United States.
This Ls no insiiruifieant item. Pork is a growing demand of
the old world. Illinois marked St>4,000,000 worth of
slaughtered animals ; more than any other State, and one-
seventh of all the States.
Illinois is a grand and wonderful State, peerless in the fer-
tility of her soil, and inexhaustible resources. She is fast
marching on towards her predestined place asjirst among the
sisterhood.
We subjoin a list of the things in which Illinois excels all
other States.
Depth and richness of soil ; per cent, of good ground ;
acres of improved land ; large farms — number of farmers ;
amount of wheat, corn oats, and honey produced ; value of
animals for slaughter; number of hogs; amount of pork;
and number of horses.
Illinois excels all other States in miles of railroads and in
miles of postal service, and in money orders sold per annum,
and in the amount of lumber sold in her markets. She pays
a larger amount of internal revenue to the general govern-
ment than any other state.
Illinois is only second in manv important matters. Tliis
sample list comprises a few of the more important:
Permanent school fund (good for a young State) ; total
income for educational purposes; number of publishers of
books, maps, papers, etc. ; value of farm products and im-
plements, and of live stock ; in tons of coal mined.
The shipping of Illinois is only second to Xew York. Out
of one port during the business hours of the season of navi-
gation she sends forth a vessel every ten minutes. This does
not include canal boats, which go one every five minutes.
No wonder she is only second in number of bankers and
brokers or in physicians and surgeons.
She is third in colleges, teachers and schools ; cattle, lead,
hay, flax, sorghum, and beeswax.
She is fourth in population ; in children enrolled in public
schools, in law schools, in butter, potatoes, and carriages.
She is fifth iu value of real and personal propert)', in theo-
logical seminaries and colleges exclusively for women, in
milk sold, and in boots and shoes manufactured, and iu book-
binding.
She is only seventh in the production of wood, while she is
the twelfth in area. She now has much more wood and
growing timber than she had thirty years ago.
A few leading industries will justify emphasis. She man-
ufactures 8210,000,000 worth of goods, which place her
nearly equal to New York and Pennsylvania.
In the number of copies of commercial and financial news-
papers issued, she is only second to New York, and in her
miles of railroads she leads all other States. Jlore than two-
thirds of her land is within five miles of a railroad and less
than two per cent, is more than fifteen miles away.
The Eeligion and Morals of the State keep step ivith her
productions and growth. She was born of the missionary
spirit. It was a minister who secured her the ordinance of
1787, by which she has been saved from slavery, ignorance,
and dishonesty. Rev. Mr. Wiley, pastor of a Scotch congre-
gation in Eandojph County, petitioned the Constitutional
Convention of 1818 to recognize Jesus Christ as King, aud
the Scriptures as the only necessary guide and book of law.
The Convention did not act in the case, and the old cove-
nanters refused to accept citiztii.*hip. They never voted
until 1824, when the slavery question was submitted to the
people. But little mob violence has ever been felt in the
State. In 1817 the regulators disposed of a band of horse
thieves that infested the territory. The Mormon indignities
finally awoke the same spirit. Alton was also the scene of a
pro-slaver)' mob, in which Lovejoy was added to the list of
martyrs. The moral sense of the people makes the law
supreme, and gives the State unruffled peace. With about
823,000,000 in church property, and 4,321 church organiza-
tions, the State has that divine police, the sleepless patrol of
moral ideas, that alone is able to secure perfect safety. Con-
science takes the knife from the assassin's hand aud the blud-
geon from the grasp of the highwayman. We sleep in safety
not because we are behind bolts and bars — these only de-
fend the innocent ; not because a lone ofiicer sleeps on a
distant corner of the street; not because a sheriff may call
his posse from a remote part of the county ; but because con-
science guards the very portals of the air and stirs iu the
deepest recesses of the public mind. This spirit issues within
the State 9,-500,000 copies of religious papers annually, and
receives still more from without. Thus the crime of the
State is only one-fourth that of New York and one-half that
of Pennsylvania.
Illinois never had but one duel between her own citizens.
In Belleville, in 1820, Alphonso Stewart and William Ben-
nett arranged to vindicate injured honor. The seconds
agreed to make it a sham, and make them shoot blanks.
Stewart was in the secret. Bennett mistrusted something,
and, unob.servcd, slipped a bullet into his gun and killed
Stewart. He then fled the State. After two years he was
caught, tried, convicted, and, in spite of friends and political
aid, was hung. This fixed the code of honor on a Christian
basis, and terminated its use in Illinois. The early preachers
were generally ignorant men, who were accounted eloquent
according to the strength of their voices. Gov. Ford .saj's,
"Nevertheless these first preachers were of incalculable ben-
efit to the country. They inculcated justice and morality.
To them are we indebted for the first Christian character of
the Protestant portion of the people."
Jn£(fuca</on, Illinois surpasses her material resources. The
ordinance of 1787 consecrated one thirty-sixth of her soil to
common schools, and the law of 1318, the first law that went
upon her statutes, gave three per cent, of all the rest to Educa-
tion. The old compact secures this interest forever, and by its
yoking together morality and intelligence it precludes the
legal interference with the Bible in the public schools. With
such a start it is natural that we should have about 11,500
schools, aud that our ilitcracy should be less than New York
or Pennsylvania, and about one-half of Massachusetts. What
a grand showing for so young a State. These public schools
38
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
snon made culleges inevitable. The first college, still flour-
i^liing, was started in Lebanon in lS-8, hv he M. E. Church,
ai.d named after Bishop ilcKcudree. Illinois college at
Jacksonville followed in 1830, snjiported by the Presbyterians.
In 1832 the Baptists built Shurtleff college at Alton, and
Knox college at Galesburg fullowed in 1833, and Jubilee
college at Peoria in 1847, and the good Catholic missionaries
long prior to this had e tablished in various parts of the State,
colleges, seminaries and parochial schools. After these earl v
years colleges have rained down. A settler could hardly
encamp on the prairie but a college would spring up by liis
wagoa. The State now has one very well endowed and
eijuipped university, namely the North-western University,
at Evanston, with six colleges, ninety instructors, over one
thousand students, and Sl,.")00,000 endowment. Eev. J. M.
Peck was the first educated Protestant minister in the State.
lie settled at Rock Spring, St. Clair County, about 1820, and
has left his impress on the State. He was a large contribu-
tor to the literature of that day in this State ; about 1837 he
published a GartWeer of Illinois. Soon after John Russell,
of BlulTdale, published essays and tales showing genius.
Judge James Hall published the Illinois Monthhj Magazine
with great ability, and an annual called Tlie Western Sou-
venir, which gave him an enviable fame all over the United
States. From these beginnings, Illinois has gone on till she
has more volumes in public libraries even than Massachu-
setts, and of the 44.500,000 volumes in all the public libra-
ries of the United Siates, she has one-thirteenth.
In 18G0 she had eighteen colleges and seminaries ; in 1870
she had eighty.
That is a grand advance for the war decade. Her growth
in the last ten years has been equally marvellous.
This brings us to a record unsurpassed in any age.
THK WAR RECORD OF ILLINOIS.
We hardly know where to begin, or how to advance, or
what. to say, as we can at best give only a broken synopsis
of her gallant deeds. Her sons have always been foremost
on fields of danger. In the war of 1812 she aided in main-
taining national sovereignty. In 1831-32, at the call of
Grov. Reynolds, her sons drove Blackhawk over the Missis-
sippi.
When the Mexican war came, in May, 1846, 8,370 men
ofiered themselves when only 3,720 could be accepted. The
fields of Buena Vista, Chapultepec and Vera Cruz, and the
storming of Cerro Gordo, will perpetuate the bravery and
the glory of the Illinois soldier. But it was reserved till
our day for her sons to find a field and a cause and a foe-
man that could fitly illustrate their spirit and heroism.
Illinois put into her own regiments for the United States
government 256,000 men, and into the army through other
states enough to swell the number to 290,000. This far ex-
ceeds all the soldiers of the federal government in all the
■war of the revolution. Her total years of service were
600,000. She enrolled men from eighteen to forty-five
years of age when the law of Congress in 1864 — the test
time — only asked for those from twenty to fortv-five. Her
enrollment was otherwise excessive. Her people wanted to
go and did not take the pains to correct the enrollment.
Thus the basis of fixing the quota was too great, and then
the quota itself, at least in the trying time, was far above
any other State. Thus the demand on some counties, as
Monroe, for example, took every able-bodied man in the
county, and then did not have enough to fill the quota.
Moreover, Illinois sent 20,844 men for ninety or one hundred
days, for whom no credit was asked. When Mr. Lincoln's
attention was called to the inequality of the quota compared
with other states, he replied, " The country needs the sacri-
fice. We must put the whip on the free horse." In spite
of these disadvantages Illinois gave to the country 73,000
years of service above all calls. With one-thirteenlh of
the population of the loyal States, she sent regularly one-
tenth of all the soldiers, and in the peril of the closing
calls, when patriots were few and weary, she then sent one-
eighth of all that were called for by her loved and honored
son in the White House. Her mothers and daughters went
into the fields to raise the grain and keep the children to-
gether, while the fathers and older sons went to the harvest
fields of the world. What a glorious record there is treas-
ured up in the hi,story of this great country for the patriotic
Illinois soldier. Her military record during the Rebellion
stands peerless among the other States. Ask any soldier
with a good record of his own, who is thus able to judge,
and he will tell you that the Illinois men went in to win.
It is common history that the greater victories were won in
the West. When everything else was dark, Illinois was gain-
ing victories all down the river, and dividing tiie confederacy,
Sherman took with him on his great march forty-five regi,
ments of Illinois infantry, throe companies of arliller}', and
one company of calvary. He could not avoid goinej to the
sea. Lincoln answered all rumors of Sherman's defeat with
" It is impossible; there is a mighty sight of fight in 100,-
OOO Western men." Illinois soldiers brought home 300
battle-flags. The first United States fl.ig that floated over
Richmond was an Illinois flag. She sent messengers and
nurses to every field and hospital, to care for her sick and
wounded sons. When individuals had given all, then cities
and towns came forward with their credit to the extent of
many millions, to aid these men and their families. Illinois
gave the country the great general of the war — Ulysses S.
Grant — since honored with two terms of the Presidency of
the United States.
One other name from Illinois comes up in all minds,
embalmed in all hearts, that must have the supreme place
in this story of our glory and of our nation's honor : that
name is Abiaham Lincoln, of Illinois. The anal3'sis of Mr.
Lincoln's character is difficult on account of its symmetry.
In this age we look with admiration at his uncompromising
honesty, ."^.nd well we may, for this saved us thousands
throughout the length and breadth of our country who knew
him only as "Honest Old Abe," and voted for him on that
account ; and wisely did they choose, for no other man could
have carried us through the fearful night of the war.
When his plans were too vast for our comprehension and
his faith in the cause too sublime for our participation,
when it was all night about us, and all dread before us,
HISTORY OF RAXnOLPH, MONROE AXD PERRY CO UX TIES, ILLIXOIS.
39
and all sad and desolate behind us : when not one ray shone
upon our cause ; when traitors were haughty and exultant
at the south, and fierce and blasphemous at the North ;
when the loyal men here seemed almost in the minority ;
when the stoutest heart quailed, when generals were defeat-
ing each other for place, and contractors were leeching out
the very heart's blood of the prostrate republic : when
everything else had failed us, we looked at this calm, patient.
man standing like a rock in the storm and said, " Mr. Lin-
coln is honest, and we will trust him sail." Holding to this
single point with the energy of faith and despair we held
together, and, under God, he brought us through to victory.
His practical wisdom made him the wonder of all laada.
With such certainty did Mr. Lincoln follow causes to their
ultimate eflects, that his foresight of contingencies seemed
almost prophetic. He is radiant with all the great virtues,
and his memory shall shed a glory upon this age that shall
fill the eyes of nicu as they look into history. Other men
have excelled him in some points, but taken at all points, all
in all, he stands head and shoulders above every other man
of six thousand years. An administrator, ha served the
nation in the perils of unparalleled civil war. A statesman,
he ju^tified his measures by their success. A philanthropist,
he gave liberty to one race and salvation to another. A
moralist, he bowed from the summit of human power to the
foot of the Cross, and became a Christian. A mediator, he
exercised mercy under the most absolute obedieace to law.
A leader, he was no partizan. A commander, he was un-
tainted with blood. A ruler in desperate times, he wns
unsullied with crime. A man, he has left no word of pas-
sion, no thought of malice, no trick of craft, no act of
jealousy, no purpose of selfish ambition. Tiius perfected,
without a model and without a peer, he was dropped into
these troubled years to adorn and embellish a!l tluit is good
and all that is great in our humanity, and to present to all
coming time the divine idea of free government. It is not
too much to say that away down in the future, when the
Ilepublic has fallen from its niche in the wall of time; when
the great war itself shall have faded out in the distance like
a mist on the horizon ; and when the Anglo-Sax ju language
shall be spoken only by the tongue of the stranger, then the
generation locking this way shall see the great President as
the supreme figure in this vortox of hi.^t ry.
CIVIL OUGAXIZATIO:^.
The history of Illinois has been traced while a possession
of France, and when under the British government ; and
the formation of Illinois as a County of Virginia has boon
noted. The several States afterwards agreed on the adop-
tion of Articles of the Confederation, to cede their claims to
the western land to the General government. Virginia
executed her deed of cession JIarch 1st, 1784. For several
years after, there was an imperfect admistration of the law
in Illinois. The French customs partly held force, and
affairs were partly governed by the promulgations of the
British commandants issued from Fort Chartros, and bv the
regulations which had subsei|ueutly been i isued bv the Vir-
gicia authorities.
By the ordinance of 1787, all the territory north-west of
the Ohio was constituted into one district, the laws to be
administered by a governor and secretary ; a court was insti-
tuted of three judges. A general assembly was provided
for, the members to be chosen by the people. General
Arthur St. Clair was selected by Congress, as Governor of
the north-western territory. The seat of government was at
Marietta, Ohio.
In the year 1795, Governor St. Clair divided St. Clair
County. All south of a line running through the New
Design settlement (in the present County of Monroe) was
erected into the County of Randolph. In honor of Edmund
Randolph of Virginia, the new county received its name.
Shadrach Bond, afterwards the first Governor, was elected
from Illinois, a member of the Territorial Legislature which
convened at Ciucinnati, ia January, 1799. In 1800 the
Territory of Indiana was formed, of which Illinois consti-
tuted a part, with the seat of government at Vincennes.
About 1803, among otlier places in the West, Aaron Burr
visited Kaskaskia in an endeavor to enlist men for his
treasonable scheme ag.iinst the government. In 1.S0.5,
George Fisher was elected from Randolph County a mem-
ber of the Territorial Legislature, and Pierre Menard was
chosen member of the Legislative Council.
By act of Congress, 1809, the Territory of Illinois wu<
constituted. Xinian Edwards was appointed Governor of
the newly organized Tcrritorv, and the seat of government
established at Kaskaskia. N.ithaniel Pope, a relative of
Edwards, received the appointment of Secretary.
For nearly four years afcc-r the organization of the Terri-
torial Government no legislature existed in Illinois. An
election for representatives was held on th.e eighth, ninth,
and tenth of October, 1812. Shadrach B md, then a resi-
dent of St. Clair County, was elected the first Delegate to
Congress from Illinois. Pierre Slenard was chosen from
Randolph County member of the Legislative Council, and
George Fisher of the House of Representatives. The Legis-
lature convened at Kaskaskia ou the twenty-fifth of Xovem-
ber, 1812.
In April, 1818, a bill providing fur the ad.ni.;sion of Illi-
nois into the Union as a sovereign Siato was j)assei liy Con-
gress. A Convention to fiame a Constitution a-.somble 1 at
Kaskaskia in the following July. The first election under
the Constitution was held in September, 1818, and .'^iiadrach
Bond was elected Governor, and Pierre Menard, Lieutenant
Governor Illinois was now declared by Congress admitted
to the Union as on an equal footing in all respects with the
original States. The Legislature again met at Ka-kaskia in
January, 1S19. Tiiis was the last session ever held at Kas-
ka^kia. Vaudalia, the same year, was selected as the Capital
of the State. It was stipulated that Vandalia was to be the
Capital for twenty years. At the end of that period it was
changed to Springfield. Below we give list of g )vernora
and staff officers of Illinois.
Illinois was constituted a separate Territory by act of Con-
gress February 3d, 1S09. The boundaries w-jre described
as follows :
HISTORY OF BANDOLPK, MONROE AND rERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
ILLINOIS TERUirORY.
FROM 1809,
TO 1882.
* " That from ami after the first day of March next, all
that part of the IiKUana Territory which lies west of the
Wabash river and a direct liuedrawn from the said Wabash
river and Post Yincennes due north to the territorial line
between the United States and Canada, shall for the purpose
of temporary government, constitute a separate territory, and
be called ' Illinois.' "
The seat of government was fixed at Kaskaskia.
The territorial government was continued under the first
grade from 1809 until 1812, when by a vote of the people
the second grade was adopted.
Under the first grade, the Governor and Judges, who
received their appointment from the President, constituted
the Legislative Council, and enacted laws for the govern-
ment of the people. The Governor possessed almost un-
limited power in the appointment of officers ; the Secretary
of the Territory being the only officer, not appointed by the
Governor.
Lender the second grade, the people elected the Legisla-
ture, which was composed of a Legislative Council and a
House of Representatives. The Legislative Council was
composed of five members, and the House of Kepreseutatives
of seven members.
The Legislature enacted the laws for the government of
the people, but the Governor was possessed of the absolute
veto power, and was therefore in position to dictate the laws,
if he chose to exercise the power.
The people also elected the Delegate to Congress by popu-
lar vote.
Ttrrltoilnl Officers.
The following is a complete roster of territorial officers
from 1S09 until the organization of the State government
in 1818:
GOVERXOnS.
•Toli.i R.vl.^ :M;ir.'li7,lsnti, Poi-liiicl.
>iiium EUivanls \Iiril:;l, Isiio, to DecijmburC, ISIS.
Tlio term oftho Governor's h,:. im n i,r a.k two yc.->rs. Governor Ertwarrls
was rc-appoiutoil from timo ti. tiiii., :i^ Ins I, rm expired, and served through
the entire territorial government.
SEcr.ETAr.IES.
K.-ilhanicl Pope IVI.ireh 7, ISnn, to DeeemV.rr IT, ISH',.
J.istph Phillips December 17, 1S16, to Oelober c, 1S18.
AUDITORS OF rUBLIC ACCOUNTS.
IT. II. Maxwell 1S12 to I.SIG.
Daniel P. Cook January V.\, 181G, to April, l.sn.
B.-ihert Blaelcwell April .^i, 1S17, to August, 1317.
Elijah C. Berry August 28, 1317, toOctober 9, ISIS.
ATTOr.NrVS riFNERAL
Benjamin 11. Dovle i " ■ .'l, 1 ■ ", to December, 1809.
•lohn J. Crittenden I'- i"'" r ■'•", 1809, to April, lalo.
Th.jmas T. ('rittenden iiril 7. |s|ii, to Oetoher, Isln.
Benjamin M. Piatt I i,.t,,l,.r •-'9, isin, to June, 1S13.
William Mears Iune23, 1813, to February 17, ISIS.
• From Le.jislativc Directory, published 1881.
TREASURERS,
1S1-2 10 1818.
DELEGATES TO COKGRESS.
Sb.adraeh Bond Iir, rnibrr, 1S12, to 1S14.
lleniamin Slepheuson September -l-J, ISH, to 1817.
Naliianiel Pope 1»17 to Isls.
JUDGES.
March 7, 1809.
Jbu-eh 7, 1SH9. Resigned.
Obadiah Jones,
\Vi
1 M<-
Jeptlia Hardm. (Eastern elrcuil.)..
ADJUTASTS-GEXERAL.
Elias I),.ot,M- Mnv :; |s
l!o
Elias l:. . I..; .. .
l\enjanunS|„|,|
Wui. Akxande
, 1M4
First Territorial Legislature— 1813.
Convened at KaslcasUia on the 2.5th dav of November, A. D. 1812. Adjourned
the -'etli dav of December, 1S12. .Second session convened and adjourned
November s' A. D. 1S13.
LEGISL.VTIVE COUNCIL.
OFFICERS.
President Pierre Menard.
Si-crclnrii lohn Thomas.
Duorkeeper Thomas Van Swcaringen.
MEMBERS.
Pierre Menard Randolph. Ramnel Jud.v Madison.
lienjamui Talbott (iallatin. Tlionias Ferguson Julinsou.
William Biggs St. Clair.
HOUSE OF REPRE.?ENTATIYES.
n li FRs.
F:peal;er...
Clerk
Duurkecpt
.George Fisher,
-.William C, GrCi
Reorse Fisher
Alexand'T WiN..u
Phillip Trallirnel ,
MEMBERS.
..Randolpli. .Toshua Oclesbv St. Clair,
....(iallatni. Jaeob Short SI. I'l.iir,
... (inllatin. William Jones Madison
....John.son.
Second Territorial I.e*f;islatu
FIRST .SESSION.
LEtJlSLATIVE COUNCIL.
OFFICERS.
r-i-Meni Pierre Menard.
Srcrr.lnTv John Thomas.
Luurkceper Phomas Stuart.
MEMBERS.
Pierre Menard Randolph. S:imuel ,Iudy Madison.
William Biggs st. riair. Thomas Ferguson Johnson.
Benjamin Talbott (iallatin.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
OFFICERS.
Snrakcr Ri.sdon Moore.
Clerk William Mears.
Duurileper Tliomas Stuart
MEMBERS.
Fisdnn iT.inr.- St. Clair. Phillip Trammel Gallatin.
\V;lh,un l.oi Madison. Thomas C. Browne (iallatin.
Jam..- I'M, St, Clair. Owen Evans Johnson.
Jaiiu- < .i:i . 'II. Randolph.
Seeond Territorial I^eglslature— 1815.
SECOND SESSION
Convened pursuant to adjournment, the 4th day of December, A. D. ISl.i.
Adjourned January 11, A, D, 1810.
LEGISLATIVE COUNCIL.
OFFICERS.
President Pierre Menard.
,Verretarii .Jolin Ihomas.
Enrolnnn and Eagromng Clerk Wm. C. Greenup.
jjoorkecper Ezra Ctwen.
MEMBERS.
Pierre Menard R.andolph. William Biggs St. Clair.
Samuel Judy Madison. Thomas Ferguson Johnson.
Benjamin Talbott Gallatin.
» Expelled.
mSTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
41
. C.Greenup.
nOl'PE OF EKPRF.SF.NT.VTIVES.
oi'Fici:i;--
Speaker
Oerk
Doorkeeper
Enrolting and Engrossing Ciirk
MEMEEK.S.
Ri«don Moore St Clnir. .Ii'liti n. Lodon Mndh
Phillip Trammel Gallatin. William l!alil>.
Tlioma.« C. Browne liallatin. James Lemon
Jarvis Hazelton Kaadoliili.
Third TerHtorlal I/eglslatiire— 1816-IT.
FIRST SliS-SlCPX.
Convened at Ka=kaskia the 2d da.v of December. A. D. ISIG. Adjourned
January 14, \. D. ISIT.
^ ' LEGISL.-VTIVE COl'N'CIL.
OFFICERS,
President Pierre Menard.
Hrrrelar,, ;',"',?P,r '^"""'K'-
Enntllimi and Enqro.siuj Clerk H. K.MoLaughlm.
DoorkecJHr ! Ezra Owen.
membet;?.
"icrre Menard Randolph. .Mm Grammar Johnson.
,Iohn G. Lofton Madison. TliomM C. Browne Oall.ilin.
Abraham .\mos St. Clair.
HOUSE OF KEPRESEXTATIVES.
OFFICEIIS.
Speaker "T"'-?'; J'^^*"",'
0frk Daniel P. Cook.
Enroi}ni!i''and'Bn'qrt>5Sinn Ocrk R. K. McLaUKhlin.
Doorkeeper '. Ezra Owen.
MEMBERS.
Georce Fi.«her R.andolph. Joseph Palmer Johnson.
C. R. M.alhenv ^^t. Clair. S.'th Card Edwards.
\Vm. H. Brad'sby S^t. Clair. Samuel Omelveny Pope.
^'athan Davis Jackson.
Third Territorial ieglslatnre— 1S17-18.
SECOND SE5SlnN-.
Convened .\t Ka.skaskia the Ist day of Docember, A. D. 1817. Adjourned
Januarv li A. D. 1818.
LEGISL.VTIVE COUNCIL.
OFFICERS.
President Pierre Menard.
Seerctnr,! !,°''fP''.F'',""''-^L-,-
Enre^inganAEagroaing CUrk R. KJ»IcLaughIir
Doorkeeper
MEMBERS.
Pierre Menard Randolph.
Abraham .\mo9 Monroe.
John Grimmar Johnson.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
OFFICERS.
Speeika- g^ilS? F'sh".
(jlffrk Daniel P. Cook.
Enrouimaiui'iiii^nTsing'cierk. R- K. McLaughlii
Doorkeeper '.... - Ezra Owen.
..Ezra Owen.
George Fisher Randolph
Cha«. R. Matheny St. Clair.
Willis Hargiaves White.
Wm. H. Bradsby St. Clair
Joseph Palmy J,.hnson
M. S. Davenport Gallatin
First Constitutional Convention.
COXVEXTION I IF ISls.
As.'serabled at Kaska-skia, July — , 1818. Adjourned August 26,
1818. Thirtv-three delegate,^. One member from Wa-shington county
died during the .sitting of tlie convention ; name unknown. Constitu-
tion adopted in convention without being submitted to a vote of the
people. Approved by Congress, December 3, 1818.
OFFICERS.
President -Tes-se B.Thomas.
Secretary William C. Greenup.
I)ELEGATF,S.
St. Cfctr— Jesse B. Thomas, John Messinger, James Lemen, Jr.
Bandolph— George Fisher, Elias Kent Kane.
Jl/adtscm— Benjamin Stephenson, Joseph Borough, .Abraham Pric-
kett.
GaZZo/iTv— Michael Jones, Leonard White, Adolphus F. Hubbard.
Johnson — Hezekiah West, Wm. McFatridge.
Edward.i Seth Gard, Levi Compton.
irAt<<:— Willis Ilargrave, Wm McHenry.
.AToTiroe— Caldwell Cams, Enoch Moore,
Pope — Samuel Omelveny, Hamlet Ferguson.
Jncfoon— Conrad Will, .lames Hall, Jr.
Oau/orrf -Joseph Kitchell, Edward X. CiiUom.
Bai!<i— Thoma-sKirkpatrick, Samuel G. Morse.
ITnion—Vf iWi&m Echols, John Whiteaker.
Washington — .\ndrew Bankaon.
Franklin— Ishum Harrison, Thomas Roberts.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT.
Under the constitution of 1818 the elective ofBcers were the Gover-
nor and Lieutenant-Governor, who held office for four years. The
election returns were transmitted by the returning otficers, directed to
the Speaker of the House of Representatives, whose duty it was to
open and publish them in the presence of a majority of each house of
the General .\ssembly. In case of a tie, the choice was made by a
joint ballot of both houses. The first election for Governor and
Lieutenant-Governor was lield on the third Thursday of September,
A. D. 1S18. Thereader the elections were held every four years
on the first Monday of August.
The Secretary of State was appointed hy the Governor, with the
advice and consent of the Senate.
The .Vudilor of Public Accounts, Treasurer and Attorney-General
were elected by the General Assembly, and held office for two years
respectively.
By the constitution of 1S4S, all these officers were made elective by
the people, except the Attorney-General, which office was abolished.
The term of office for each was four years, except the Treasn n r,
which was two years.
The office of .Attorney-General was again created by law, in 1867,
and the term fixed at two years. The office was first filled by
appointment by the Governor, and at the expiration of the term by
election by the people.
The constitution of 1870 provides that the Executive Department
shall consist of-a Governor, Lieutenanl-Ciovernor, Secretary of State,
Auditor of Public Accounts, Treasurer, Superintendent of Public In-
struction, and Attorney-General, who shall eacli, with the exception
of the Treasurer, hold office for four years from the second Monday in
January next after election. The Treasurer holds office for two years,
and is ineligible for re-election until the expiration of two years next
after the end of his term. The first election under the constitution of
1870 was held Novembers, A. D. 1872.
By a law passed in 1849 the Secretary of State was made ez-officia
State Superintendent of Public Schools. In 18.54 the law establish-
ing a system of free schools created the office of State Superintendent,
and provided for the appointment by the Governor, upon the taking
effect of the law, of some person to hold office until the election in
1855, when a State Superintendent should be elected, and every two
years thereafter.
The offices of Adjutant-General, State Geologist, and Entomolo-
gist, are created by law, and filled by appointment of the Governor.
STATE OF ILLINOIS.
Shailraeh Bond 'Oct.
Ktiw..>rd Coles IDeC.
Nmian Kd wards Dec.
Jotm Reynolds Dec.
Wm. L. D. Ewing INov.
Joseph Duncan Dec.
Thomas Carlin ' Dec.
Thomas Ford Dec.
Augustus C. French Dec,
Augustus C. French |Jan.
6, 1818....
6, 1822...
6, 182C..
9, 1830...
17, 1834.
3, 1834
7, 1838....
8, 1842
!1, 1846
8, 1849...
.St. Clair
.'Madison...,
. Madison....
.'St. Clair
.Fayette
.:Morgan
.'Greene
Joel A. Mfttteson Jan.,
Wm. U. Bissell Jan.
John Wood Mar.
.Ian. 14,18f.l.
Jan. 16, 1865..,
Jan. 11, 1869.,
Jan. 13, 1873.,
John L. Beveridge Jan 23, 1873
Richard Yates
Richard J.OKlesby..
John M. Palmer
Richard J. Oglesby-.
1853....
12,18.57..,
21, I860..
Resigned Nov. 17, 1834.
Elected Ren. to Congress.
Vice Reynolds. *
Shelby M. Cullom Jan. 8,1877..
Shelby M. Cullom 'Jan. 10, 1881..
Monroe Died March 15. 1860.
Adams jSueceededto the office vic«
Bissell.
Morgan
Macon
Macoupin .
Macon
Resigned Jan. 23, 187S.
Elected U.S. Sen*or.
Succeeded to office, t1c«
Oglesby resigned.
4-2.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Ijieutenan£-Goi
Pierre Menard Oct. 6, 1818..
Adolphus F. Hubbard..' Dec. 5,1822.,
William Kinney., "' "
Stinson H. .^nrter:
John M'viri-
Joseph n. Wolls...
Wm. McM.irtry...
Gustavua KcErner,
John Wood
3 A. Marshall..
I \. Hoffman..
Dec. 7, 1838.,
Dec. 8. 1S42.,
Dec. 9, 1846.
Jan. 8, 1849.
1853.
12, 1857.
St. Claii
Jefferso
Fayette
Jeffer.son,
McLean,.
Rock Isia
Jan. 14, 1861.,
Jan. li;, 1805.,
„ Jan. 11, 1869.,
John L. Beveridge 'Jan. 13, 1873.,
John Early Jan. 23, 1873.,
Archibald A. Glenn Jan. 8, 1875.
Union
Coolt
Winnebago.
Brown
Resienc-d March 1. 18.33
Pre.sident of Senate and Act-
ing Lieut-Governor.
Resigned
Presidentof Senate and Act-
g Ijieut-Governor
Succeeded to office
vice Bissell dec'd ^
1860.
President of Senate a
ing Lieut-Gnvernc
Succeeded to office of Gov.
vice Oglesby elec'd U. S Sen
Presidentof Senate and Act-
ing Lieut-Governor.
President of Senate and Act-
ing Lieut-Gc
Secretaries of State.
Elias Kent Kane 1 1, t r. l-l-
Samucl n, L.,ckwood 1 in ■ I -, ■ -
David Bl-vkn-r-ll \]'ril J. '
Morri" P.pklu-.'k M,,t 1,1- I
Georrr l,',,-|r ,r ,1 ,:, I,, I '
Alex^ui i, , ]■ I I, !,i I' , ,1, I -
Stepli.-n \ h ,i|,-i,i. \,,> ,,.■, I- h
Lyman '1 i '-ill .. I-I' -T, IMI
Thompson r.inipbcll, , -Mar. 4, 1,<4:!„
Horaces. Cooley [Dec. 23, ls4r...|
Horaces. Cooley 'Jan. 8,1849..'
David L. Greggs \i.nn". !,■<."
Alexander -Starne ' m l ■, i ,,
Ozins M. Hatcli 1 n I ., 1 :
OziasM. Hatch ,l:.n, II, l
Sharon Tyndale ,,ian, P , I
Edward Rummel 'Jan. 11. i
George H. Harrow Jan. 1:1, 1
George H. Harrow Jan. ,'-. 1 ,,
Henry C. Dement Ijan. 10, l,.^l,.
lAppointed hy Gov. French.
Elected under Constitution
I of 1848. Died April 2, 1850.
Auditors of Public Accounts.
, 27, ls:n.
Fayette
James T. B. Stapp
Levi Davis
James Shields
Wm. D. L. EwinK_.
Thomas H. Campbel
Thomas H. Campbel
Jesse K. Dubois
Jesse K. Dubois
Orlin H. Miner Deo. li, 1864.. Sang;
rhailcs E. Lippincott..]Jan. 11, 18C9.. Cass
Charles E. Lippincott.. J.an. l.i, 187,3,, "
Thomas B. Needles .fan. 8, 1877.. Washington
Charles P. Swigert Wan. 10, 1881.. Kankakee...
? Ewing, deceased.
Superintendent of Public Instruction.
Ninian W. Edwards Mch. 24, 1854.
Wm. H. Powell Jan'y 12, 1857.
Newton Bateman |Jan'y 1,1859.
Newton B.iteniaii iJan'y 4, W61.
John P. Brooks Jan'y 12, 1863.
Newton Bateman Jan'y lu, 1805.
Newton Bateman IJan'y — , 1867.
Newton Bateman 'Jan'y-, 1871.
Sam'l K. Etter iJan'y 11, 1876.
Jattes P. Slade Ijan'y 13, 1879.
Sangamo
Peoria....
Morgan..
Appointed by the Governor
State Treasurers.
John Tho
R. K. Jlc I
Jamc
Willi;
Willi;
Resigned Dee, 3, 1,V10.
Ale
HBeveridg
George W. Smith...
Erastus N. Bates...
Erastus N. Bates...
Edward Ruiz
Thos. S. Ridgeway..
Edward Rutz
John C. Smith
Edward Rutz
,l;m. 12, 1,S63„
.Ian. 9, 1865.
Jan. 10, 1807.
Jan. 11, 1869.,
Nov. 8, 1870.
Jan. 13, 1873.
Jan. 11, 1875.
Jan. 8, 1877.
Jan. 13, 1879.
Jan. 10, 1881.
Dekalb..
Oook
Marion..
St. Clair
Gallatin
St. Clair
JoDaviess .
.Cook
,l|ipn,„t
Kleeted.
Resigned Sept. 3, 1859.
Appointed,
Carpenter.
,1859
Mille
Attomeys-CJeneral.
Daniel Pope Cook
WHliam Mcars
Sam'l D. Lockvvood..,.
James Turncy
James Turney
George Forquer
James Semple
Ninian W. Edw.ards..
Ninian W. Edwards...
.Jesse li. Thomas, Jr.
Walter B. Scates
Usher F. binder
I W. Olney
.'Mch. 6, 1819.. Randolph ... Resigned March 5, 1819.
.'Dec. 14, 1819.. St Clair I
Feb. 20, 1821,.!Madison Resigned Deo. 28, 1822.
. laii'yll, 1^2:1 Washington Resigned Jan'y 7, IS'25.
1, l.>,.4„
ly 111, 1811,
James A. Meli,
David H, CiiLi]
Kobeiti., Ill-- ■
iFeb." 12, 183.5. .'Madison. I,' I : -,
.Llan'ylS, 1830.,'JefTerson I,, .i , 1 ,■ - ,
IFeti, 4. isn C,-.|p.i.,. 1:, ;-ii, ,l ,l;ii,' II, I ,;■<.
.1,1, ix;- M-,,!,^,,,,, R, .,L',i.-,| Feti-y 1, 1,h:.19.
; Jl, h ,,!-,, ( ■ i,u,,|,| 1;, .|,_'iie,l Kov.19, 1S40.
I-!', J.; I-'- !■,'', ','■",, .\pi...inledby(..ov. I 'Klc.by.
I ,:, X I I. !■; , I ,- il,, -
. Janv. ,11 1S77„, " :
.^Jan'y.lO, I881..lWayne 1 - -
State Geolo^Bts.
When I From what
appointed, i county.
Joseph Norwood
H. A. rlffers
Amos H. Worthen....
L.-op.jld Riiditer
Henrv Engolraann..
William Billington..
!.luly 21, 1R,51 ,'s,3neamon.-.. Act of Feb. 17, 1S51.
■\], 1, ■' 1- 11 ■(, , 1: \ !',,• >or%vood.
1,,, 1,1 ,, " i -,M.
, .\|„,1 r., I-., I -' ' I,..:
,:Apnli:o, l.,„l„-.;n;4.m.,...-..
State Entomologists.
When |From what
appointed. ] county.
D.B.Walsh
Wm. LeBarron.
Cyrus Thomas..
.June- 11, lsn7..!Rock IslandlDicd.
.April 2, 1870..lK.ane iDied.
.lApril 13, 1876..iJackson I
Adjutants-General.
Wm. Alexander
Elijah C. Berry
James W. Berry....
Moses K. Anderso
Simon B. Buckner
Wm. C. Kcnney....
I'homas S. Mather
Allen C. Fuller
Isham N. Haynie..
Edward P. Nlles....
Hubert Dilger
Edwin L. Higgins
Edwin L. Higgins
Hiram Hilliard
Hiram Hilliard
When From what
appointed. county.
April !
June 1
Dec. 1
Dec. 1
April
Deo.
Oct. 2
Nov. 1
Jan'y 1
MohVii
Jan'y 2
July
July
July
, 1839.
1857.
, 1857.
, 1858.
, 1801.
, 1866.
,'1809.
, 1873.
, 1874.
, 1875.
, 1877.
Sangamon...
Cook
St. Clair
Sangamon..
Boone
Alexander..
Cook
Sangamon..
Resigned Nov. 11,
Resigned Nov. 7, 1857.
Died.
Vice Kinney, deceased.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
43
POPrLATIOX OF ILLINOIS.
i by Counties, ujordiag t> the United States census, from the year ISCk) to the year 1380, and dale
1800. i 1810. ; 1820. 1 ia.io.
I'^Ml. I ISfiO.
Adams
Alexander.
Hond
Boone
Brown
Bureau
Calhoun
Carroll
Champaign ...
Christian
Clark
Clay
Clinton
Coles
Cook
Crawford
Cumberland..
DeKalh
IifWiti
llH!lL'l;l*
l>iira.-.-
Iroqtv
.T.vks
•l.lSpc
..| 4,822
2,1811
i,:ao
2,031
3,0411
7.1,-:
2,.'i30
],878l 3, 20:!!
7, 4V1 9, ."■32
111,2111 1 43,3S.V
41,323
4, 707
0,815
11, 078
9,938
25, 420
.1, 141
11,733
ll,32r,
14, 029
10, 492
11,987
9, .^3^,
10.911
14, 203
144, 9."i4
11,.V,I
R.31I
10,086
10, .S2n
7,140
14,7"l!
lc.,9i->|
.■i.lSJl
7 8IC1
11,189
l,079l
0,303'
33, .l;).'?!
10,093!
10,379:
a.nwl
29, 001 i
3,7.59;
2,2041
1 1 1'
■-, 1-1;
3,921
I ■.■•
-•lllj
11,079
4,012
1_ ...,l
11. Till!
r., 9.37
-., 5SS
19, 22s
in, .-.73
..■;72|
r,ii.-,o.
l,-.73
7,914
7,807
3,710
13, rcii
20. ISO
2,8'Hi
ll.ixr.
♦,7lfi|
7. i21 1
12,0-,2
3,239:
r.,.v24i
7, 01.-.
9,no3i
11,492
2,7Io|
4,210
4, 090
308'
0,739|
8,170
l,n7.'>i
4,S10|
n,9.-.3
2,r..W|
S, 133i
0, S2."i
0,0911
7,9I9j
2. -.14
8 92.'.
s. 3111
1871
,301
20, 000!
..; 4,.^r.:
7, 3.54i
12, 0.51 :
1 0, liSM
18,001
27,3-25
i;| 3, c-.io,
4,114
9, 342;
.. 0, 5111
10, 703,
30. 0fi2i
1.5. 4121
■
7 73 ;
I3.074I
4; 7,010
1:1. 279i
2.<, 0031
,- 7,0,-,4!
11,220
18,2571
..' 9, 3 IS
17. SI.5I
48.3321
.•* 7,0921
0.I2I1
9,214'
2, 03-.:
r., 292:
17.0.511
.1 7.59 ■
1,5.52,
11,037:
22, 112'
0,385'
22, SSsi
30, 001 1
9,,5.52|
0, 127
27.2491
0,712
3,943
.5, .587
17.205
9,711
21,00.5
9, 331
32, 274
14, CS4
9, 0(i9l
14.0131
9,004:
•37,094
25,1121
21, 470,
ll.lSli
lo.rtiol
7, 3131
l8,.^3fi!
13.731]
12, 2131
12, 403
15, 71)71
29,3211
12,2a5
SO, 302
10, .564
13 152
12, 942
1-2,205
34,41
lr,'-u
18,719
15,875
10,285
When organized.
12, 0521
S-'S, 2911
11,1341
20, -277
14..93,s
1.3,Ot4|
35,9351
19.0.34
11,2.3s
17,8114,
1.5,0.54'
27, 820
ll,24.'i'
39,1191
24, .352]
1-2, .399
27, 171 :
31 , 471
2!, 0.531
20, 181 ;
10, .5nO
2.5.4711,
10, 751
f 1,01a,
30,00s
27. 903 I
10,.51R|
30..3SS;
8, .« 11
23. 174
17, .599
19,7.5.<l
m.-sio
£7. .503;
43,0131
17,. 3-29
29, .3011
IS, 95G'
59, 148 .Tanuary 13, 18-25..
14, 809>Ittrt-h 4, 1S19
14,873 J;inii:ir-.- 1. I«1T..
11,527 Mi: ■': I, 1- ,^ .-
13,014 !■■■ I 1 . I i- .'
33. ISO F- ',- ■ , V J. 1 ■ :T
N-.
KM
18,924 r,-lMiiiuyl5, lb:ii
23,213 Fohmarv 14, 1821
15 105 Februarv.l7, 1.S.59
111, l.-Llnnuiu-V-'. isl.'^...
: . J 1 ■ ■
•.-S, ISJl..
-.-11. 1825..
■:. IS39
i'V 211, 1S41...
r,n1 .l:ini
457 Feb
.50S .lam
5; 5 F.-b,
u-vl :. K2.5...
uary -20, 18.33
ary 10, isio...
n;n-vl5, 1S31
27; 491 1- ■','-.• ■--, i- :i
3s.,|5'i F,' 1 :; 11 V --7. 1^1:
2.5,041 Fel.|ll:u-\' 1 ., 1S:|9...,
30,071 .laiiiia'-y I'l, Isii
37,705.1aniiarvl7, 1820
.50.141 S-ptc-nibor 14, 1SI2..
1,,. 11^ 1'. :.i;; ,:;.-s, lvl:l. ...
iliflU .lannary 10,' ls3il
00,115 Dci-embfr 2.5, 1S30..
13. 02s Febrnarvl5, 1.S.39....
19, ,5111 .l:innnr%' 1:1. \---5
13,6.12 I::- ■ 1, I-'
2S, (iSii 1
31,51:. I
13,^111 |- 1 . '
.33,701 .biiiuiuv 111. l.^Jl..
13,2.5c:Al.iil I, Isio
9, .507 51;>rch.3, 1843
S.555 .Taniinrv 13. !S-25..
16, 2l'i la
1 -, 1125
745 February 10, 1839....
.3o;2S2 .lanuarv 23, 1S27
11,209 March 2,1839
Cl,SjO April 28. 1809
31,970 March 4,1837
29, 079 .January .31, 18-27
18, 1(«t .lannary 2. 1818 ,
41, 000 .lannai-v 18, 1320
9, 91.5 Dcnen)ber27, 1824..
22,940 .lannary 13, 1325
21,117 January 2, 1818
21, -297 Mareh20. 1819
23, II.S9 nceembcr 9, I815...
30, SM January 10, 1S:10 ,
53, 424 January 1-2, 1830 ,
19.320 Fcbruarv 23, 1839...
30, 518 January 16. 18.36
21, 630 February 27, 1841...
County Seats.
iQuincy
Cairo
Greenville
Hclvifiere
Ml. Sterling
I'l in. --("M...
ll-,r.lni
M.-ir.sliall .'.'.'.'.'.'..'..'.
ILouisville
Carlyle
Charleston
, Chicago
Robinson
.:Majority Point
'. lilliogliaMKiim..!.!
. Van.lali.a
Paxton
. Benton
. Lewistown
. Shawneetown
. Carrollton
. Morris
. Mel.eansboro
. Carthage
. Elizabethtown
. Oquawka
. C.mbridge
. Watseka
. Murphvsboro.
. Xewtoii
. Mt. Vernon
. Jerseyville
. Galena
. Vienna
. Kankakee City
.'Yorkville
. Galesbnrg
. Wn.lkfgan
I .V, :. ..-viiiel'Z!
' l.ine,!in..!3!"!".l
- Deratni-
. Carlinville
. F.hvardsville
. Slu-lhyvill.
. Touion
. nellcville.
. Freeport.
Marion..
B.>..klord...
Metamora..
. 851,4701 1,711.951 2,.5.39.89ll 3,1
:, 030
as organized April 27th, 1790, by Arthur Pt. Clair, then Gnve
' rc^organized after lUinoiei had been established as a Terril
or and Commnnde
y, April 23tli,18iiO.
ritory of the United Slate
44
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION.
Presidents.
No. NAME. QUALIFIED.
1 George Washington April 30, ITS'i
.•^ '' Mar. 4, nm
2 John Adams Mar. 4, IT.i?
S Thomas .Icrtersou Mar 4, isin
" " Mar. 4, 18llj
4 James Madison Mar. 4,1800
•« " Ma**, 4, 181-i
5 James Monroe Mar. 4, 1M7
C John Qiiiiicy .K'\Muf .... .M^r. 4, 1»25
7 .Andrew Jaclcso,, Mar. 4, ip
M.ir. 4, 1833
8 Martin Van Bnron Mar. 4, 1837
0 Wm. Honrv Harrison.... Mar. 4, 1841
10 John Tvler April n, 1841
11 James K. l'..lk Mar. 4, 184,5
in Zacharvr.vl.ir M.ir. f<, 1S4')
13 Millard FiHni"r^ Inly 1", LS^"
14 FranUliii I'l ivr Mir. 4, IsVt
Ir, James Bu.'i,.„,:,n M:ir 4, 1H.-.7
16 Abraham Li.icohi Mir. 4, 1.%1
" .Mar. 4, 180.5
17 Andrew Johnson April 15, 18b5
18 Ulvsses S. Grant Mar. 4, 1809
Mar. 4, 1873
10 Rutherford B. Hayes Mar. 6, 1877
ao James A. Garfield Mar. 4, 1881
21 Chester A. Arthur Sept. 20, 1881
Vice-Presidents.
Secretaries of State.
2 Thomai .leffi-
3 Aaron Burr
4 George Clinft
4, 1707
4, 1801
4, 1805
4, 1809
6 Eldlidu-e Gerrv
..Mar. 4, 1813
..Nov. 2.5, 1814
G Daniel D. Tompkins...
..Mar. 4, 1817
..Mar. 6, 18^1
7 John C.Calhoun
..Mar. 4, 18i5
8 Martin Van Hiin-n
..Mar. 4, 1833
9 Ricli:i! 1 M .1- :hi-.ii ..
..Mar. 4, 1837
...Mar. 4, 1841
•Saiir.. 1 - . . .;.l
.Anril 1-., 1841
..May 31, 1842
11 lifMru- M PaMi.
..Mar. 4, 1845
Vi Miliar.; I'llli. 1,11.1
..Mar. .5, 1840
•William li KiiiK
...July 11, 1850
13 William K. Kiiii;
..M.ar. 4, 1853
•Iiavrl R, Atrhison....
..April 18, 18.53
•Jesse D. Brieht
..Dee. 6, 1854
..Mar. 4, 18.57
1.5 Hannibal Hamlin
.Mar. 4, ISfil
16 Andrew Ji.hn-.
»I,.afaveite ^ 1
•Benjamin 1' v
17 Schuyler ('nil iv
18 Henry WiN,.n
♦Thomas W. Fe
il 15, 1
2, 18G7
I 4, 1800
r. 4, 1873
No. NAiaB. APPOISTEn.
17 John C.Calhoun Mar. 6, 1814
18 James Buchanan Mar. li, ls4o
19 John M. Clayton Mar. 8, 18i0
Daniel Webster July 22, 1850
20 Edward Everelt Nov. B, 18.52
21 William L. Marcy Mar. 7, 1853
"lewisCass Mar. 6, 1857
2:j Jeremiah 8. Black Dec. 17, I8C0
24 William H. Seward Mar. 6, 1861
Mar. 4, 1865
April 15, 1865
25 E. B. Washburne Mar. .5, 1809
26 Hamilton Fish Mar. 11, 1860
" Mar. 4, 1873
27 William M.Evarts Mar. 12, 1877
28 James G. Blaine Mar. 4, 18S1
29 Frelinghuysen, F. T Dec, 1881
Secretaries of tlie Treasury.
1 Alex. Hamilton Sept. II, 17S0
Mar. 4, 1703
2 Oliver Wolcott Feb. 2, 1705
Mar. 4, 1797
3 Samual Dexter Jan. 1, ISol
4 Albert Gallatin May 14, 1801
" " Mar. 4, 1800
Mar. 4, 1813
5 Geo. W. Campbell Feb. 9, 1814
6 Alexander J. Dallas Oct. 0, 1814
7 Wm. H. Crawford Oct. 22, 1816
Mar. 5, 1817
" " Mar. 5, 1821
8 Richard Rush Mar. 7, 1825
9 Samuel D. Ingham Mar. 6, 1820
10 Louis McLane Aug. 2, 1831
11 William J. Duano May 20, 1833
12 Roger B. Taney Sept. 23, 1833
13 Levi Woodbury June 27, 1834
Mar. 4, 1S37
14 Thomas Ewiug Mar. 5, 1841
" April 6, 1841
..Sept. 13, 1841
..Mar. 3, 1843
.June 1,5, 1844
...Mar. 0, 1845
8, 1849
Secretaries of AVar.
No.
i William L. Marcy Mar. 6, 1845
23 George vv. Crawford.. . Mar. 8,1849
24 Charles M. Conrad Aug. 15, 1850
25 Jerter.ion Davis Mar. ,5, 1853
20 John B. Floyd Mar. 6. 18.7
27 Joseph Holt Jan. 18, 1801
28 Simon Cameron Mar. 5,1861
29 Edwin M. Stanton Ian. 1.5, 1862
Mar. 4, 1865
" " April 16, 1805
U. S. Grant, ad in(erim...Aug. 12, 1867
L Thomas, " " ...Feb. 21,1808
30 John M. Schofield May 28, 1868
31 John A. Rawlin,! Mar. 11, 1809
32 Wm. W. Belknap Out. 25, 1869
Mar. 4, 1873
33 AlphonsoTaft Mar. 8, 1876
34 James D. Cameron May 22, 1.876
35 Geo. W. McCrary Mar. 12, 1877
36 Alexander Ramsey Dec. In, 1879
37 Robert T. Uncoln Mar. 4, 1881
Secretaries of tHe Navy.
1 Benjamin Stoddert May 21, 1708
Mar. 4, 1801
2. RobertSmilh July 15, 1801
3. J. Crowninshield M
4 Paul Hamilton M
5 WiiliamJou
15 Walter Forward..
16 John C. Spencer..
17 George M. Bibb .
18 Robert J. Walk
M. M
I Th.
iith.
21 James Onlhrie
■>i Howell Cohb
23 Philip F. Thomas .,
24 John A. Dix
25 S.almon P.Cha,se
20 Wm. Pilt Fesscnde
27 Hugh McCulloch...
.Sla
23, IS,
7, ls-,3
. 6, 18,57
, 12, 1861 1
11, 1SI,1
186.=
29 George S. Boutwell
29 Wm. A Richardson M
30 Benj. H. Bristow
^1 Lot M. Morrill...
32 John Sherman...
.April 15, IS
.M ■■ "
11, 1:
17, 1
4, 1874
luly 7, 1876
Mar. 8, 1877
..Mar. 4, IRSl
..Dec
1881
20 Chester A Arthur Mar. 4, 1881
21 David Davis Oct. 13, 1881
*Aeting Viee-Presidcnt £
pro tern of the Senate.
Secretaries of State.
Secretaries of \Vi
4 Samuel Den
5 Roger Grisv
G Henry Dea
8 John Quincy Adams Mar.
0 Henry Clfiy
1 1 Martin Van Bur
U Edward Divines
12 Louis McLane .
13 John Forsyth
14 Daniel Web=tei
..Sept. 26, 1789
..Mar. 4, 1793
...Ian. 2, 1794
..Dec. 10, 1795
.Mar. 4, 1707
.. May 13, 1800
...Mar. 5, 1801
...Mar. 4, 1805
..Mar. 6, 1809
.April 2, 1811 11 George Graham
' 12 John C. Cal'ioun
13 James Barbour..
14 Peter B. P,)rter.
15 John H. Eaton...
10 Lewis Cass
.Sept. 12, 17S0
..Mar. 4, 1793
.Jan. 2, 1705
..Jan, 27, 1796
..Mar. 4, 1797
..May 13, 1800
. K. b. n, 1801
...Mar. 6, 1801
..Mar. 4, 1805
...Mar. 7, 1809
...Jan. 13, 1813
4, 1813
27, 1814
1, 1815
,.ad interim
Mar.
6 B. W. Crowninshield Dec.
Mar.
7 Smith Thompson Nov.
8 Samuel L. Southard Sept
Mar,
9 John Branch...
10 Levi Woodbury,
11 Mahlon Dicke
14 Abel P. Upshur....
15 David Henshaw ...
10 Thomas W. Gi.mei
17 John Y. Mason
18 Geo'gelianeroft,...
John Y. Mason
19 William B. Piesto
ill William A. Graliar
21 John P. Kennedy.
22 James C. Dobbin .
23 l.saac Toucey
24 Gideon Welles
3, 1805
7, 1809
12, 1813
4, 1813
19, 1814
4,1817
9, 1S18
5, 1821
16, 1823
4, 182.1
9, ISill
May 23, 1831
Mar. 4, 1833
June 30, 1834
.Mar. 4, 1837
June 25, 1838
Mar. 5, 1841
0, 1841
13, 1841
July 24, 1843
15, 1844
14, 1844
111, 1845
9, 1846
5, 1849
July 22', 1852
Mar. 7, 1853
Mar. C, 1857
Mar. 5,1801
Mar. 4, 1865
April 15, 1865
5, 1869
April
..F.b.
.Sept.
. Mar.
Illy
Postmasters-Creneral
No.
26 Geo. M. Robeson June
Mar.
27 Rich. W.Thompson Mar.
28 Nathan Goff, Jr Jan.
29 W. H. Hunt Mar.
30 W. E. Chandler April,
25, 1869
4 1673
12, 1877
6,1881
4, 1881
Secretaries of tile Interior.
..Sept.
,.Ma
-,Mar. 7, 1825
.Mar. 6, 1S29
..May 24, 1831
...Mai'. .5, 1841
.. April 6, 1841
Hugh S. Leeare May 21, 184;)
Abel P. Upshur July 24, 1843
..Oct.
..Ma
April
19 John C. Spencer Oct.
20 James M. Po-ter Mar.
21 William ftilkina Feb.
,181-
5, 1821
7, 1825
20, 1823
9, 1829
1,1831
4, 1833
7, 1837
,5, 1841
6, 1841
12, 1841
iEwing Mar,
1 Thi
2 Alex, H. Stu;
3 Robert McClelland .Mar.
4 JacobTh'impson Mar.
5 Caleb B. Smith Mar.
0 John P. Usher Jan.
" Mar.
8, 1849
Sept. 12, 1850
7, 1853
4 Gideon Gi-auger Nov. 28, 1801
Mar. 4,180,5
" Mar. 4,1809
5 Reluru J. Meigs, Jr Wai-. 17, 1814
" Mar. 4. 1817
" Mar. 5,1821
6 John McLean June 20,1823
" Mar. 4,1825
7 William T. Barry Mar. 9, 1829
•■ Mar. 4,1833
8 Amos Kendall May 1,18:15
Mar. 4, 1837
9 John M. Niles May 25, 18Jl>
10 Francis Granger iMar 6. 1841
Apiil 6,1841
11 Chas. A. Wickliflo Sept. 13, 1S41
12 Cave Johnson .Mar. 6, 181,5
13 Jacob Collamer Mar. 8 1K49
14 Nathan K. Hall July 23, 18.50
15 Sam'l D. Hubbard Aug. 31, 18.52
16 James Campbell Mar 5, lR5:i
17 Aaron V. Brown Msr. 6, 18.57
18 Joseph Holt .Mar. 14,1659
19 Horalio King Feb. 12, 1861
20 Mnnteoniery Blair Mar. 5, iROl
21 William Dennison Sept. 24, 1864
Mar. 4, 186.5
" " Apiil 15, 1K65
22 Alex. W. Randall July 2.5, 1866
23 John A. J. Cresswell Mai'. 5, 1869
Mar. 4. 1S73
24 Marshall Jewell Aug. 24, 1874
25 James N. Tyner July 12, 1n70
2C David McK Key Mar. 12, 1877
27 Horace Maynard June 2, 18'!)
28 Thomas L James Mar. 4, issl
29 Timothy O.Howe Dec, 1881
Attorneys-General .
7 James Hailan
8 O. H. Browning
9 Jacob I'. Cox
10 Columbus Delano .
11 Zachariah Chandh
UCarl Schurz Mar.
13 Samuel J. Kirkwood Mar.
14 Henry M.Teller April,
6, 1867
5, 1801
8, 1863
4, I8O0
April 16, 1865
May 15, 1865
July 27, 1806
Mar. 5, 1809
Nov. 1, 1870
.Mar. 4, 1S73
19. 1875
12, 1877
4, 1881
1682
. Oct.
Postmasters-General.
3 Joseph Habersham F b.
26, 1789
12. 1791
4, 1793
25, 1795
I Edmund Randolph...
Sept.
.Mar
26, 1789
4, 1703
2 William Bradford
.Jan.
27, 1704
3 Charles Lee
.Dec.
10, 1795
.Mar.
4, 1797
4 Theophilus Parsons...
.Feb.
211, 1801
5 Levi Lincoln
..Mar.
6, 1801
6 Robert Smith
..Mar.
3, 180.5
7 John Breckiniidge....
Aug.
7, 1805
SCicsar A. Rodney
28, 1807
..Mar.
4, 1809
9 William Plnkney
..Dec.
11,1811
..Mar.
4, 1813
10 Richard Rush
..Feb.
10, 1814
" •'
..Mar.
4, 1817
11 William Wirt
..Nov.
1.3, 1817
..Mar.
5 1821
..Mar.
4, 1825
12 John M. Berrien
.. Mar
9, 1820
13 Roger B. Taney
..July
1.0, 1831
4, 1833
14 Benjamin F. Butler...
..Nov.
1.5. 1833
. Mar.
4, 1837
15 Felix Grundy
...July,
5, 1838
10 Henry D. Gilpin
11, 184(1
17 John J. Cnllenden....
6, 1841
..April
6, 1841
18 Hugh S. Legate
...f^ept.
...JuV
13, 1841
19 John Nelson
1, 1843
20 John Y. Mason
...Mar.
0, 1845
21 Nathan Clifford
..Oct.
17, 1840
22 Isaac Toucey
...June
21, 1848
23 Reverdy Jonnson ....
. .Mar.
8, 1849
John J Crittenden...
luly
22, 1850
24 Caleb Cn>hing
...Mar.
7, 1853
...Mar.
6, 1857
26 Edwin M. Slanton....
.. .Dec.
20, 1860
27 Kdward Bates
...Mar.
5, 1861
..June
28 James Speed
...Dee.
2, 1864
....Mar.
4, 1865
a .1
.. Apri
15. 1865
29 Henry Stanbery
...July
23. 1866
30 William M Evarts...
...July
16, 1868
31 E. Rockwo'^d Hoa-...
.. Mar.
6, 1809
32 Amos T. Akerman ..
lune
23, 1870
33 George H. Williams.
....Dec
14, 1871
" '
... Mar.
4. 1873
34 Edward Pi-rrepont.
...Apri
26, 1875
35 Alphonso Tnft
....May
22, 1870
36 Charles Devena
....Mar.
12, 1877
37 Wayne MacVeagh....
....Mar.
4 1881
38 Benj. Harris Brewster...Dec.
I88I
45
SPEAKERS OF THE HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Joseph B. Varnii
Henry Clay
John W. Taylor....
Philip P. Barbour
Henry Clay
John W. Taylor...
Andrew Stevenson.
Pennsylvania
Connectieut..
Pennsylvania
New Jersey...
MQBr^aclmaetts.-
Kentweky
New York, 2d Session..
Virginia
Kentucky
Robert M. T. Hunlcr
John White
John W. Jones
John W. Davis
Robert C. Winthrop.
Howell Cohb
Linn Boyd
Joyd
Tennessee, 2d Sesp
Virginia
Kenlucky
Virginia
Indiana
Massachusetts..
Georgia
Kentucky
Naths
niel P. Banks
.Unies L. Orr
Wm. Pennington
lialu.iha A. Orow ,
Schuyler Colfar
. Ma.«sachusel
jriouth Carol
.iNew Jer.oey.
tPennsylvani
.Indiana
i G. Blaine Maine..
CpMSr
Ter
IstC'ngress April I, IT.y', t.i Miir.li 4,
2d Congress 'ii.;tober lit. IT'l. t'. Mm I
3d Congress Decerntxr j, 17'.';. lu M:in
«h Congress iL-i-emli. r :, IT'i:., <■■ -Mm.
5th Congress. M iv r.. r; '7, i M .i 'i ■',
6th Congress. i '' .mt-i .17', 'iMit
1th Con.nrei.8 l •. . mi., r 7, l i , !'• M .i
.*tth Congress -i, < .i„ ,17 l : . Mu I
nth Congress ••■>'■> '-■' i.M.n
lOth Cot.gress >• '<' 1 1 7, . Mu
Uth Congress M .- ^- 11 . ■■ '
12th Congress ^ ■ ' ^11 1 '"• ''
lath Congress. "^I 'v 71, 11 ;. 1 1 u..i,u\
lUth Congl-ess hinumy Id, IMI, t.. .Man-
llthCongies.s Uerember 4, Isl.->, to Mar
15th Congress li,ecember 1, 1S17, to Mar
lilth Congress Iiecember G, l^l'.i, to Miij
llith Congress \,,i, mb. r 1,7. l-j", i.. M:l
17th Congress Ii. ..,nl..r 1, l-jl, 1. 11, ,t
l.slhCongress I <••''• 1 1 i-: '•■ M:u
I'Jth Congress I'"" 1 • 1-7,1.. Mm
20th Congress 1 1. . .'liil...! ., I-J7, i.i iM;ii
21st Congress I ">'- ' ~. '^'-•. <" Mm
2'.'d Congl-ess 1'. ..nil- r 7, IMI, to M«v
■2nd Congress ' mi.- r 7, 1^.1 1, In .1.11,1
■2;Jd Congress i.:... 7, 1- .1, t.. "M;,.. i. 1,
24th Congrtss i. . ... . ;,i- . \i
2.'tth (!ontireps >. . ■. 1 ■ 7i
26th Congress 1 :,
*27th Congress ^' .^ ii n 7i
z«th Congress Iiec.n.i- 11 • ■ 71
2ath Congress pecenil. ; ,1 '. 1
llnth Congress iDeceiril. 1 .1 ;: i .
:11st Congress .Dt-.-einl. 1 7, : |. ' ^l..
.32d Congress |i,..i,.i 1 1 - 1 -.7],,
H3d Congress I ' ' ■ iM .:
34th Congress 1 ;... 71 . . ,7L,i.
:J5th Congress I '■ . 1 ' 1 . 71 .
36th Congress I '■■■ -'-'• ' '''•
37th Cf ngress ' . 1. ' 7; 1
38th Congress I ■: t : 1.
39th Congress I" . i 'i-
1609
1805
1SII5
.;Pennsylvauia,2dSe
44lh Cngrt-ss lle.-emb.T 1, I.s7.:, 1.. Miir.b 4, 157:
.'4.ith Consress jOotober 15, 1K77, to March 4, 1879...
.i4illh Congress JMarch 18, 1S7.J, to
1821
1652
i'sivi
1845
1848
185U
POPULATION OF THE UNITED STATES AT EACH CENSUS, FROM 1790 TO 1880, FROM THE OFFICIAL CENSUS.
States aud Territories. 1790. I ISOO. I 1810. 1820. 1830. I 1840. I 18S0. ! 1860. 1870. 1880.
The United State
771023
209897
02,i97
25243.3 I 341)985
12282 651 02
24520 I 147178
711748
347.30
511.823
l')7445
313031
oppi
Missi
M .ss<
Nebraska
Nevada
New Hampshire-
New Jersey
>'ew York
North Carolina....
Ohio
Oregon ,
Penn.sylvania
Rhode Island
South Carolina
Tennessee
Texas
The States
Arizona
141885
184139
3411120
393751
4.34373
G882S
249073
35G91
151719
341548
422845
0112.305
09122
345591
105602
4<l(u'ill
705.50
2;870S
3811.5411
472040
4702
604135
152923
298269
407350
623159
8705
637917
215739
:!994."i5
447040
C1(14<1S
309976
78085
64477
09139 i
470183
68.1806
43112
370792
91532
87445
6011185
851470
988410
192214
779828
352111
.501793
47I10I9
737099
2U-2I.7
982405
517762
583169
.•.83034
994514
397054
6077
Cnn.V20
68'2M4
214460 '
215502 I
959049
6.55.50O
2.30760 1
siiKioi
76931
415115
261727
244022
2774211
1372! 11
o;)88 9
581295
"i'tiii™
aijoio
502741
42-2771
1348233 I
97199
681185
681904
1724033
108830
6'l4398
8-^9210
317970
489555
30973M
8C9039
1980329
13204
2311786
147545
668.507
1002717
212.592
314120
1421661
305391
904201
4354.50
379994
34277
400147
112216
140424
1057280
1711951
1360428
674913
107-206
115068
708002
6-28279
(187019
1231050
749113
172023
791305
1182012
28841
6857
326073
672035
3880735
992022
23J9511
6241.5
2900215
174020
7113708
1109S0I
1104215
315098
1590318
991.992
484471
660247
39804
637454
1-25015 1
18774S
H84109
25391-91
1080637
11940-20
304.399
l.-.50.'^+
14.57351
1184059
439700
827922
1721295
122993
42491
3I83CIO
90G090
4382759
loTllli.l
■^n. '■■■■'.
1268521) I
K1S579 I
330551 i
1220163
442014
1054070
1202794
802564
804680
194049
0-22083
140064
267351
1639048
307871.9
995900
1048708
940103
048945
934032
1783012
1030331
7S..R00
1331592
21I1.-604
452433
62265
341984
1130^
83M1I
1542463
1,592574
332286
1612806
618443
1315480
9600783 1-28»)86S nol!i641 ' 2.3067262 I 31183744 : .38115041 49369.i95
Dakota.,
Disti-ict of Columbia..
Idaho
Montana
New Mexico
Utah
Wnshington
Wyoming
The Territories
Total Population..
.5308483 72398SI 9033,^22 12.8. 00-20
43712
17069453
124614 I
2319l,«76
9658
I4I8I
1317.5"
14999
;tl59,i
9187-1
86780
231155
9118
44-2730
38558371
40441
135180
177638
32011
39157
118430
14391.0
75120
2(17S8
783271
20.60
65 05
64.34
368.28
15.85
17..30
42.39
29.97
21.22
17.70
.16.06
173.14
24.60
29.32
3.15
19.68
22.34
.38.19
77 67
30.67
25.99
207.83
40.63
9.01
24.>0
15.09
30.67
19,99
23.42
39.91
24.72
34.88
117.42
90.12
«S.90
NJSTOHY OF IIAKDOIA'II, MONROE AND I'KUHY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
CHAPTER III.
OKOaUArilY, AinUrri.TVllAL llKSOUncnS AXD nAlL-
ROAD FACILITIKS uF RAXlJOLlUI. .VOMiOB
AXD PEJIRY COUXTIE^.
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
i/^J^
HIS county is situaud on the
.'uiitlivctt borders of tlie
slate, and bisected at riglit
angles by the 38th degree oi'
north latitude, and the 90th
degree of longitude west from
Gr(en\\icli. It is an irregular
district of country, triangular
ill outline, and bounded on
the north by Monroe, St.
(.'lair and Wabliingtuii coun-
ties, on the ea.it by Perry and Jackson counties, and on the
south and wejt by the Mississippi river and Monroe county.-
It embraces an area of about si.Kteen congressional townships,
or upwards of five hundred square miles. The Kaskaskia
enters the county from the north in Baldwin precinct, flows
ill a soutiierly course, and discharges its waters into the
Mis.-issippi river about ten miles above the south line of the
eiiuutv. The ea.-^t is traversed in the same direction by
Mary's river, which enters the Mi-s^issippi about four miles
below the mouth of the Kaskaskia. lu addition to these.
Horse creek, and Nine Mile creek, tributaries of the Kas-
kaskia, flow through the northern portion of the county;
and the Little Mary, a tributary of Mary's river. The>e,
taken together, furnish an excellent waterway i'ov all sections
of the county. Besides the a'oove, there are streams of lesser
note, which form auxiliaries to complete almost a perfect
surface drainage.
Toporjrapluj. — The features of the county topographically
are somewhat varied. About one-third of its surface, com-
prising the northeastern portion, is comparatively of a level
or rolling surface, sufficient for good natural drainage. The
prairie tracts are very small and limited, and possess a loamy
Soil of lightish color, with a yellow clay sub-soil. These
prairie lands, although not possessing the deep bl.ick soil
peculiar to the central and northern part of the state, are
nevertheless, very productive yielding abundant crops of
corn, wheat, oats, and grasses, and this without very much
effort' on the part of the husbandman. The jirairie region
is restricted, maiuly, to that portion of the county underlaid
by the coal fields.
Soil and At/iiciilture. — Between this prairie region and
the bottom lands on the Kaskaskia and Mississippi rivers,
there is a bjlt of country underlaid by sandstone and lime-
stone, which is ipiite broken and hilly, rising at some points
to quite prominent bluffs. Originally this portion of the
country was covered with heavy timber, and a considerable
portion of its surface is still occupied by the natural forests.
The soil upon these broken lands is somewhat shallower than
that of the prairie.", yet its productive qualities seem to be
about equal to the adjacent lands, and where the surface is
sufficiently level for agricultural purposes, good crops are
usually realized. The yellow clay sub-soil of this region
appears to possess all the essential elements of a good soil,
and when brought to the surface and subjected to atmos-
pheric agencies, it becomes most productive. Hence, sub-
soiling will be found largely advantageous to those soils
that, from long and injudicious cultivation, have been par-
tially exhausted. These broken lands are especially adapted
to the growth of every kind of fruit peculiar to the temperate
zones, and the smaller fruits may be successfully cultivated
even where the lands are too undulating for the raising of
cereals. Some of the enterprising German farmers have
already commenced the culture of the grape, and the manu-
facture of native wine by them has proven quite a success.
It is a matter of experiment as yet, whether the Catawba
will succeed as well here as in a more northern climate. Yet
there are other varieties, if it should fail to be valuable, that
can be successfully cultivated. The Delaware and Concord
varieties have proven valuable and productive in all por-
tions of the temperate zone, rather than in a comparatively
mild one ; hen'-e its cultivation in Southern Illinois has gen-
erally proved a partial failure, while in localities further
north it has been comparatively successful. The Catawba
seems to be less liable to be affected by mildew or rut in a
climate as cold as it can stand without protection. It is no
longer a doubtful problem that the broken and liilly lauds
along the principal streams, e.^peciall)' the bluffs of the Mis-
si^sijipi, where tlie marly deposit known as ''loess " has been
<lep(i-iied, and is more or less intermingled with the soil, are
admirably ailapted to the growth of the vine. The labors of
the intelligent agric ilturist have already (Lnionstrated the
fact that Illinois is cajiable of jiroducing, not "uly all the
native wines re<iuiied for home consunipiinii, but a surplus
for the supply ot less favored regions.
The most important and productive pai-t of the county is
probably found in the American Bottom, It forms a belt of
rich alluvial soil about twenty miles in length, and an
avirage width of four miles. It is exceedingly productive,
and were it not for ihe periodical overflows to which it is
subjected from the high waters of the Mississippi, it would
be esteemed as the most valuable land in the county. The
soil is quite sandy, but is intermingled with vegetable mould
and clay from the sediment of the river, forming a rich,
warm soil, which is unsurpassed by any in the state for the
production of maize and the cereals generally. Tlie upianils
comprise a series of brown and yellow clays, intermingled
locally with gravel and small pebbles, and specially adapted
to the culture of wheat. There have really been three eras
in the county of what might be considered the staple pro-
ducts that have engaged the attention of the agriculturist.
In an early day, Indian corn was the principal product.
Later, the castor bean was largely cultivated, and was con-
sidered a most profitable crop. About twenty-five or thirty
years ago, wheat became largely planted, and to this time is
the grand staple of the county.
HISTORY OF RAXTiOLPH, MOXIIOE AXD PERRY roi'XTIES, ILLIXOIS.
47
The general elevation of the uplands above the Missiwippi
is from three to four hundred feet. Tlie principal varieties of
timber upon the land are black oak, white oak, shell-bark
and pig-nut hickory, sugar maple, linden, black gum, pir-
sinimou, red, slippery and white elm, black ash, rcd-l)ud,
dogwood and sassafras. On the bottom lands are found the
Cottonwood, svcamore, honey-locust, hackberry, box-elder,
sweet gum, white ash, swamp oak, burr oak, white and black
walnut, pecan and white maple. Plenty of good timber is
yet left for all the wants of the people ibr fuel and building
purposes.
Chester. — The capital of the county is situated in the
southwestern part, located on the bluff overlooking the
Mississippi, about seventy-five miles below St. Louis, and
contains a population of nearly three thousand inhabitants.
The southern penitentiary is located here, and there are
many fine business houses in the city, and it is at this writ-
ing in a prosperous and growing condition.
I'opu/iition. — The population is composed mainly of Eng-
lish, German, French and Irish nationalities, and, according
to the census of 1880, was as follows :
KusUnski
HHldnin
rhesUr
4,2GU
J, MO
Central and BInir
Bic
en
Hocl<wooil ....
Slcols .Mills ;in.nVi
ypavtn
Tilden iiiul Coullei-
MONROE COUNTY.
This county comprises an irregular-shaped triangular area
on the southwestern borders of the state, embracing about
three hundred and eighty square miles, and is bounded on
the north and east by St. Clair and Randolph counties and
the Kaska-skia river, and on the south and west by Ran-
dolph county and the Mississippi river.
Waterloo, the capital of the county, is situated on the
St. Louis and Cairo railway, in the northeastern part of the
county, and is one of the substantial inland towns of the
state, and contains a population of about two thousand in-
habitants. It is located on a high, rolling site of ground
that overlooks a large scope of beautifully cultivated larming
lands.
Popnhtiiiii. — The population of the county is mainly com-
posed of a thrifty German nationality, which constitutes
about three-fourths of the inhabitants of the county. The
other fourth is a mixture of various nationalities, principally
of English, Irish and French descent. The Irish settle-
ments are in the center and south. According to the census
of 1880 the population by precincts was as follows :
Walcvloo Pieoinrl lim-lndinK eit.v) :t,l(r)
(•olunil)i;>,inaNen Hanover l'.sIO
.Moredork 061
Mitchic. Blufl; and llairisonville 2,:i77
Konault 1,(188
New Design l,47ii
Prairie dn Long 1.480
The census of 1860 was Li 8.".?; of 1870, 12,982. The
population of the town of Waterloo in 1870 was 1,537; in
.880, 1,822.
Topor/iiij/lii/. — The surface is considerably diversified, the
region adjacent to the river bluHs being quite hilly and
broken, while the eastern portion of the county is compara-
tively level, and affords an area of excellent farming lands.
In that portion of the county underlaid by the St. Louis
limestone, in the central and southwestern uplands, there
are numerous " sink-holes," which render the land nearly
valueless for agricultural purposes. These depressions are
funnel-shaped, and lead down to crevices or caverns below,
through which the water that falls upon the surface finds an
outlet into the adjacent streams. Occasionalh' the crevice
at the bottom becomes filled up with the sediment that
washes into it, and small ponds of water arc found, some of
which, in the vicinity of Waterloo, cover an area of several
acres, and are bountifully supplied with fish.
ILjiIrof/riiphii. — The natural drainage of the county is
almost complete, the Mississippi extending ali;ng the entire
western boundary, and the Kaskaskia partially on the east.
The principal interior streams are Fountain creek, Horse
creek, and Prairie du Long creek. The former rises in the
highlands south of Waterloo, and extends in a north-
westerly course until it enters the American Bottom, and
from thence southwesterly, emptying into the Mississippi
near Harrisonville. Horse creek, which intersects the
southern portion of the county, and Prairie du Long creek,
which waters the eastern portion, both discharge their waters
into the Kaskaskia. In the western part of the county there
are several fine lakes, among which are Jloredock, Kidd,
and the Grand Coule lakes, with some others of lesser note.
Some of these are fed mainly by subterranean stream.?, which
find their way through the fissures and caverns of the lime-
stones underlying the adjacent highlauds. These lakes are
well supplied with fish, and are favorite resorts for the
sportsman, both for hunting and fishing.
Resources, Soil and Ayricidttirc. — As a budy, Monroe
county was originally heavily timbered, there being but
three or four small prairies in the eastern portion, the larger
of which arc Xew Design jjrairie, Prairie du Long, and
Prairie du Rond, none of which exceed an area of more than
three or four square miles in extent. The timber of the
uplands consists mainly of the usual varieties of oak and
hickory on the broken lands, while on the more level tracts
in the east, elm, black walnut, hackberry, wild cherry,
linden and honey-locust are found in abundance. The
bottom lands are for the most part heavily timbered with
Cottonwood, sycamore, black and white walnut, ash, elm,
pecan, soft maple, persimmon, and several other varieties.
The surface of the highlands is composed of a buft-colored
sandy loam, often filled with bleached fresh-water and land
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
shells, and is underlaid with a variable thickness of drift,
clays and " loess,' usually ranging from ten to sixty feet,
and at a few points near thejiver blufls it attains a maxi-
mum thickness of seventy-five to one hundred feet. The
western portion of the county, embracing nearly one-fourth
of its entire area, is included in the American Bottom. The
average width of this alluvial belt is about four miles, and
its extent north and south is over thirty miles. These
bottom lands are exceedingly fertile, and really possess- three
classes of soil. Probably the richest and most inexhaustible
is that portion known as the blue-black deposit, and can be
cultivated only when it is of a proper consistency between
wet and dry. The other soils are composed of either black
or light sandy loams. This land is peculiarly adapted to
the growing of coru, but wheat, grasses and oats are culti-
vated with success. On the uplands, wheat has been the
grand staple for twenty-five or thirty years, and the yield
and quality is unsurpassed by any lands in the state.
rcrciinial Spriiir/s abound iu various parts of the county
after rising the bluff. They are of pure cold water, and are
auxiliary to the comfort of both man and beast. Many of
these gush forth in sufficient quantities to form brooks of
ever-running water.
PERRY COUNTY
lies immediately north of Jackson county, which forms its
southern boundary, and is bounded on the north by Wash-
ington, on the west by Randolph, and on the east by Frank-
lin and Jefferson counties. It embraces a superficial area of
twelve congressional townships, or about 276,480 acres of
land, three-fourths of which was originally covered with
timber. It is divided into eight political divisions or pre-
cincts as follows : Grand Cote, Beaucoup, Taraaroa, Cutler,
Pinckneyville, South Western, Du Quoin and Paradise.
Pliickiift/rille, the seat of justice, is situated on the west
side of Big Beaucoup creek, and near the geographical
center of the count}- in section twenty-four, five south, three
west, at the head of Four-JIile prairie. At this writing it
contains a population of about 1.500 inhabitants. In 1837,
according to Peck, it contained four stores, one tavern,
one grocery, and fifteen or twenty families, and was sur-
rounded with a .settlement of industrious farmers.
Popiilation. — The first settlers were principally American
born, and emigrants from the south. The present popula.
tion is composed of various nationalities, English, German,
Irish, Negroes and Poles ; the former probably being in the
ascendancy. According to the official census of 1880, the
county contained 16,008 inhabitants.
Hydrography. — The county is well supplied with water-
courses suitable for natural drainage. The principal streams
within its limits are Little Muddy, Beaucoup, and Colombo
creeks, all of them being northwestern affluents of the Big
Muddy river. The former constitutes the principal portion
of the eastern boundary of the county, and, with its tribu-
taries, furnishes excellent drainage for that part of the
county. Beaucoup creek flows through the entire county
from north to south, and nearly equally divides the territory
in acreage on the east and west, while the Colombo practi-
cally drains the west and southwest.
Topography and Soil. — The surface of the country is gene-
rally rolling, and on some of the streams becomes consider-
ably broken by low ridges, but not sufficiently abrupt to
render the land unfit for cultivation ; while some portions
are quite level, including a few flat prairies and a portion of
the timbered land known as " Post-Oak F'ats." As stated
above, Beaucoup creek trends through the center of the
county, and the prairies occupy mainly the highlands be-
tween this stream and the Little Muddy on the east, and the
Colombo on the west, except the Grand Cote prairie, which
occupies an elevated ridge in the northwest. The prairies
here, as is usually the case in other parts of the state, form
the highest part of the ground, yet their relative elevation
is quite variable, even iu a single county. In Perry, they
are mostly surrounded by timbered flats, which gradually
pass into more broken timbered lauds as you approach the
streams. Their surface is usually flat, or gently undulating,
passing in places into the broken grassy upland known as
"barrens." This land consists of low hills and ridges,
covered with a dense growth of tall grasses, and quite desti-
tute of timber. The sub-soil of the " barrens " consists of a
white sandy loam, but the surface configuration afl!brds a
complete drainage, and therefore sustains a good growth of
vegetation, which in time has formed a rich soil, highly
charged with humus. These lands become dry early in the
spring, and from their excellent surface drainage, resist the
drouth better than the "flats" on account of the soil being
more porous, and readily absorb the atmospheric moisture.
The absence of timber is undoubtedly due to the annual
fires that sweep over them, fed by the tall grasses that cover
the surface. Thes.-) "barrens" merge into the oak hills,
which are similar ridges covered with a heavy growth of
timber, consisting of post-oak, black oak, hickory, black-
jack, etc.
The creek bottoms within the barren region have a soil
similar to that of the flats, but a little coarser, and contain-
ing a greater per cent, of vegetable mould, rendering them
as dark in color as the prairie soils. The timber is tall and
heavy, and consists principally of the varieties of oak, ash,
shell-bark hickory, walnut, hazel, and some other classes of
timber.
The " Post-Oak Flats" are comparatively level stretches
of theuplaud, sparsely timbered with patches of post-oak, and
interspersed with black-jack and a young growth of post-
oak. They thus form an open forest, and the light, bleached
appearing soil is but scantily covered with vegetation. The
sub-soil comprises a white sandy loam, and reaches to the
depth of several feet. The surface soil is quite shallow, and
seems to differ from the sub-soil only by a slight mixture of
vegetable mould. This soil, like that of the prairies, is so
finely comminuted as to render it almost impenetrable to
water, which remains in depression upon the surface until it
slowly disappears by evaporation. A potent remedy for
this would be by clovering frequently, or top dressing with
a copious supply of well-rotted compost. These flats extend
around the prairies, forming a narrow belt between them
HISTORY OF BAXDOLPH, MONROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
49
and the more broken timbered lands adjacent, and also from
the highes: portions of the broad flat ridges between the
streams where no pr.iiries occur. The prairie soil differs
from the flau only in being more fully charged with vege-
table humus, and a somewhat deeper productive surface. Of
all these varieties of soil, the " Aals " are the most unpro-
ductive, and require the greatest amount of skill and labor
to bring them up to a standard that is most valuable to the
husbandman. This can be effectually and cheaply done by
deep and frequent plowing, which loosens the soil and aids
the surface drainage and by topdrissing and plowing under
green crops to give the required amount of vegetable mould,
which treatment would undoubtedly insure a steady increase
in the productive capacities of the soil, until it will equal
the fertility of the adjacent prairies.
Agriculture and Horticulture. — This is emphatically a
wheat county, although large quantities of corn, oats, rye,
potatoes, etc , are raised. The wheat raised upon the
timbered land rates among the best in the state.
The growth and prosperity of a country depends upon its
agricultural resources; indeed the world could not move if
it were not for this industry. HoiV true the aphorism, " The
success of the huabandmau is the salvation of a country I "
He is the bone and strength of the land, the engine, as it
were, that drives the whole machinery of mankind — that
which fosters life, distributes wealth, and creates happiness
in every Breside in the land. When this industry fails
famine, misery and tears prevail. Ireland, and other coun-
tries of Europe, have in times past been striking examples
of the famine tiend ; but thanks to a kind Providence, in our
own country, and especially within the fertile fields of the
grand old prairie slate, never have the people been obliged to
realize the sufferings of those who were not blessed with the
necessaries of life.
The means and facilities for tilling the soil have kept
pace with other improvements of the age. The old wooden
muuld-board has given place to the elegant sulky plow, the
reaping-hook is tran.-forined into the wonderful niechani,-im
known as the self-binder, and the tramping of the cattle and
the thud of the flail have yielded to the steam engine
and the hum of the gigantic thresher. The farmers of this
county are up with the times, and to a large extent are using
all the modern farm machinery. Horticulture is given
considerable attention, but not that notice the soil and cli.
mate would warrant. Good orchards prevail in most parts
of the county, and the small fruits and berries are cultivated
quite largely, but with the natural resources of climate and
soil of Perry county, with proper attention given to the
culture of the vine and other fruits, a few acres of land
might be made to yield as much profit as some of the larger
farms. This may be a thought worthy the attention of those
who own but small farms on the lands composed of the
thinner class of soil.
Trmisportaiion Facilities. — The early markets and the
facilities for transportation were as inconvenient as the pro.
duce to be moved was meager ; all things were in keeping
and consistent with the times. These counties, especially
7
Randolph and Monroe, have enjoyed special early privileges
in the way of transportation. Long before steam power was
invented or thought of, the Mississippi and Kaska-^kia rivers
furnished an outlet for all the products to be moved by the
people. The early medium was by the means of the old-
time flat boat, propelled bj- poles or sweeps. Then came
the steam age, and a new area opened up to the people along
the Mississippi ; and a little later still, the iron horse became
an important auxiliary to carry the products to all points of
the country where the markets might be most conducive to
the interests of the husbandman. Only about a half century
ago, a boat propelled by steam on the Mississippi was a
sight to behold, nhile at this time, the long line of smoke
from their volcanic furnaces is scarcely lost sight of, and the
whistles from their hoarse throats are continually resounding
throughout the American Buttom. Steamboats have navi-
gated the Kaskaskia as far as Carlyle. The first boat that
made the trip was the " Bellevue," in the spring of 1S37,
Capt. Nelson commander and owner. In the same year, the
steamer " Wild Duck " made a passage up the river to the
same point, thus opening up a new era to the people along
the banks of the Kaskaskia. At this writing, boats do not
pass beyond Evansville on account of the St. Louis and
Cairo Railroad bridge spanning the river a little above the
aforesaid town. As already stated, the first navigation of
the Mississippi was by rafts or flat boats. It was for some
time a mooted question whether it could, with its swift cur-
rent, be navigated by steamboats. This doubt was dispelled
by the landing at St. Louis of the "General Pike," com-
manded by Capt. James Reed, August 2d, 1817. About
two years thereafter, a second boat ascended the river. This
was the " Harriet," from New Orleans, June 'Id, 1819, and
was commanded by Capt. Arniitage. The trip was made in
twenty-seven days. This was the beginning of river com-
munication proper between the marts of New Orleans and
St. Louis.
The first locomotive engine was invented by George
Stephenson, of England, and was first successfully operated
September 27th, 1825, on a short road from Stockton to
Darlington, England In 1830, there were but twenty-three
miles of railroad this side of the Atlantic. The first road
operated in the States extended from Baltimore to Ellicott's
Mills, Maryland, a distance of eleven and a-half miles ; this
was in July of the above year. The cars were drawn by
horses, the locomotive not then having been introduced on
this side of the water. The coaches were open vehicles,
somewhat resembling the carriages of that date. In the
Baltimore American of July, 1830, an advertisement ap-
peared of this road, stating that a sufficient number of cars
had been provided to accommodate the traveling public,
and that a brigade (train of cars) would leave the depot on
Pratt Street at G and 10 o'clock a. m., and at 3 and 4 o'clock
p. M. ; returning, would leave the depot at Ellicott's Mills at
6 and 8.30 o'clock a. m., and 12.30 and 6 v. m.
The first road constructed in the Mississippi Valley was
built from Illinoistown — now East St Louis — to the bluff, a
distance of about six miles across the American Bottom.
It was constructed in 1837, under the personal supervision
50
JIISTORV OF RAXUOLl'H, MONROE AND I'ERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
of Governor Reynolds, Vital Jarrot, aud a few others. It
was expressly built for tiie purpose of transporting coal from
where it cropped out at the bluff to the St. Louis market-
It had a wooden rail, and the cars were driven by horse-
power.
The first line of railroad built in the state in which the
locomotive was utilized was the North Cross Railway, ex-
tending from (J.uincy to Danville. This was chartered in
1837, and the first engine placed upon it was in the winter
of 1838-9, its run being from Meredosia to Jacksonville.
The track was the primitive ttraprail style. The engine, as
well as the road, soon became so inipaired that the former
was abandoned, and the horsepower substituted in its stead.
To-day, Illinois leads the van, has outstripped all other
states in this gigantic enterprise, and now modestly bears the
honors of a well-earned success in its magnitude of internal
improvements.
According to official reports of 1880, Illinois had 9,29i
miles of track, constructed and equipped at a cost of
8408,745,915, thus surpassing every other s-tate iu the
Union in miles of railroad. Many miles of track have been
laid since the above report was made, the Prairie State, as
usual, taking the lead of all other states. If within less than
half a century such strides have beeu made in the facilities
of transportation, what mind can conceive the progress that
will be reached in the fifty years to come ?
RAILROAD SYSTEM OF RANDOLPH, MONROE
AND PERRY COUNTIES.
ST. I.OUIS AND CAIRO SUORT LINE l;AII,EOAD.
St. Louis, Alton and Terre Haute Raihouy Co. — This is
one of the most important roads traversing Southern Illinois,
and through its proprietary and leased lines does a very
large business, having terminal facilities at East St. Louis
and Eldorado, and an operating contract with the Illinois
Central R R., by which through trains run to Cairo. The
most important stations on the line of the road are East St.
Louis, Belleville, Pinckneyville, Du Quoin, Benton, Gala-
tia and Eldorado. At East St. Louis and St. Louis it has
connections with all the roads centering in those important
commercial marts. At Pinckneyville, connections are made
with the Wabash, Chester and Western R. R ,and St. Louis
Coal R. R. ; at Du Quoin with the Illinois Central ; and at
Eldorado with the Cairo and Vincennes (now a part of the
Wabash system) and the Louisville and Nashville Rail,
road.
This company was incorporated June 24th, 1862, under
an act approved February 28th, 1861, by the purchase of
the franchises and property of the Terre Haute, Alton, and
St. Louis R. R. Co., and the Belleville and lUiuoistown
R. R. Co., Oct. 30th, 1856, under act of the Illinois Legisla-
ture approved February 28th, 1854.
The Belleville and Illinoistowu R. R. Co. w as incorporated
June 21st, 1862.
The Belleville and Southern Illinois R. R., from Belleville
to Du Quoin, 56 miles, was leased to this company Oct. 1st,
1806, for 999 years, and operated from January 1st, 1870.
By subsequent arrangement of lease, the Belleville and
Eldorado R. R , another leased line, and an extension of the
former, from Du Quoin to Eldorado, 50 miles, was leased to
this Co. July 1st, 1880, for 985 years. The officers of the
road are : — President, W. Byard Cutting, New York ; Vice-
President and General Manager, Geo. W. Parker, St. Louis;
Secretary, Edward F. Leonard, Springfield ; Treasurer, Geo.
W. Parker, St. Louis; Superintendent, J. L. Hinckley,
Belleville ; Auditor, H. T. Nash, St. Louis ; General Freight
and Passenger Agent, H. S. De Pew, St. Louis ; General
Offices, 104 North 4th St., St. Louis.
When the main line of the St. Louis, Alton, ami Terre
Haute R. R. was leased in 1867 to the Indianapolis and St.
Louis R. R. Co., the lessors retained under their own man-
agement the Belleville brauch, aud stipulated that a certain
portion of the equipment should be allotted to the branch
from the general equipment of the road ; also that the lessors
should erect a new depot at East St. Luuis, and withiu a
certain specified time turn over the old depot grounds to the
" Belleville Branch." The coal traffic along the line be-
tween East St. Louis aud Belleville had always been au im-
portant factor in the general butiuess of the road, while the
trade iu other traffic is also remunerative. The charter of
the St. Louis, Alton and Terre Haute R. R. Co. authorized
an extension of the road from Belleville to Paducah, and
the question of building the line via Alhtns and Marissa, to
some point on the Illinois Central Railroad in the direction
of Cairo had been seriously agitated by the management
during 1866-67. but it was finally deemed advisable to en-
trust the construction to some other corporation, and lease
the road upon its completion. The road, therefore, from
Belleville south to Du Q,uoin, a distance of fifty-six miles,
was built under the auspices of the Belleville and Southern
Illinois R. R. Co., and opened for through traffic in 1870,
under lease to the St. Louis, Alton and Terre Haute R. R.
Co. as aforesaid. As will be observed, this road forms a
connection with the Illinois Central R. R. The short line
between St. Louis and Cairo, also all poiiits south reached
via Cairo, has c intributed materially towards maintaining
intimate business relations between St. Louis and the Gulf
States. The management, -ever since the opening of the
Short Line for through traffic, has been a commercial aud
financial success ; and if the owners of the St. Louis, Alton
and Terre Haute R. R. were wise, under the then existing
circumstances, in leasing their main line on terms which
guaranteed in perpetuity the interest on nearly all their
bonded debt, they displayed more wisdom in obtaining a
southern outlet for the branch which enhances its material
value, and contributes largely to the amicable net revenue.
When the Belleville and Southern Illinois R. R. was com-
pleted and opened for business in 1870, and leased to the St.
Louis, Alton and Terre Haute R. R. Co. the latter com-
pany, and the Illinois Central R. R. Co., made an agree-
ment by the terms of which the road from East St. Louis to
Du Quoin, aud from Du Quoin to Cairo, should be united
under a business management, and practically operated as a
HISTORY OF RAXnOLPH, MOXROE AXI) PERRY ('OrXTIK<, ILLIXOIS.
single line. It was then christened, and has since been known
as the " St. Louis and Cairo Short Line," but popuhirly
known as the " Cairo Short Line."
The character and resources of the country between East
St. Louis, Du Quoin and Eldorado, traversed by the " Cairo
Short Line," are well known to residents of Southern Illinois
and St. Louis. The whole country, from East St. Louis to
Eldorado, is underlaid with coal of a superior quality, from
which large supplies are annually drawn for public works
and manufacturing industries It is, also, the finest wheat
producing section of Southern Illinois, and Belleville and
other points on the line of road have extensive flouring mills,
whose brands have acquired deserved reputations both in
domestic and foreign markets. A few miles southeast of
Belleville the road enters on the Grand Prairie, which ex-
tends for twenty-two miles, and is proverbial for its superior
grain crops. Here, also, a vein of very superior coal is
found, especially near Coulterville, thirty-two miles from
Belleville. The quality of the coal seems to improve with
the increased distance from St. Louis. The celebrated
" Bryden," or Williamson County coal, finds its way to St.
Louis over this line of road ; also the Big Muddy coal from
Jackson County. The present eastern terminus of the
"Cairo Short Line" is at Eldorado, in Saline County, one
hundred and twenty one miles from St. Louis. Number of
miles of road, 121 ; aggregate length of sidings, 19— total
track mileage, 140 miles; in addition to the branch from
Belleville to East Carondelet, 16 miles, which will .*oon be
opened and operated fur the delivery of coal to the manu-
facturing e.^tablishmentsin Carondelet.
TJii' St. Loiiix and Cairn R. A'., was chartered February
l(jth. 186.5, and the entire line completed and put in opera-
tion J[arch 1st, 187.5. It connects the cities of East St.
Louis and Cairo, and has an entire line of track of 151 I'V
miles. It was originally chartered under the name of the
Cairo and St. Louis Railroad Comj)any, but within the last
year it was reorganized and adopted the above corporate
name. At the time of the organization of the company it
was decided to build a narrow gauge— three feet — road, and
it was believed that the enterprise would prove a success on
account of the cheapness of construction and the economy
of obtainiug the rolling stock. In accordance with these
views contracts were let, and the management was encour-
aged by the promises of liberal local aid to push the enter-
prise to completion ; but the financial panic of 187.3, over-
took it before it was thoroughly completed. The promised
local aid failed to be forthcoming, and the company after
struggling against many difficulties, was compelled at last
to place the property under the orders of the court, and a
receiver appointed, under whose management it was operated
until February 1st, 188'i, when it was transfered to the pre-
sent company, and is now conducted by them under the
above name, with its General Office at 411, Olive street, St.
Louis, Missouri. The following is a list of the officers of
the road : President. W. F. Whitehouse ; Vice President,
L. M. Johnson ; General Solicitor, S Corning Judd ; Secre-
tary, C. Ritchie ; General Superintendent, Chas. Hamilton;
Auditor, Lewis Enos ; General Freight and Passenger Agt.,
Geo. H. Smith. It utilizes seven miles of the East St.
Louis and Carondelet RaiUvay, with a third rail from Ea.st
St. Louis to East (.'arondelet The road enters Monroe
county in the extreme northern part in Columbia precinct;
extends in a south and easterly direction through New Han-
over, Waterloo, and New Design precincts— clipping the
southwest corner of Prairie du Long — and crosses the
boundary line into Randolph county in the extreme north-
west, in Red Bud precinct ; and extends thence ea.st and
south through Randolph into Perry county, crossing the line
of the latter in town 6, range 5 ; and thus includes more
than one-third the length of the entire line of road.
Witl)a.'ih, Cheder ami Wc-^trrii Railroad Compan;/. — This
road was chartered March 4th, 1869, and entitled the " Ches-
ter and Tamaroa Coal and Railroad Company." It was
put in operation from Tamaroa, in Perry county, to Ches-
ter, Randol|)h county, in JIarcli 1872. The company
secured subscriptions to its capital stock from Perry and
Randolph counties for which stock interest bearing bonds
were issued. Those of the former county are yet outstand-
ing and will mature in 1892 ; the interest — seven per cent. —
is regularly and promptly paid July 24th, 1873, the com-
pany was consolidated with the Chester and Iron Mountain
Railway Company of Missouri, under the Iron Mountain,
Chester and Eastern Rail Road Company. The road passed
into the hands of a Receiver, and was for some years the sub-
ject of lively litigation. A sale of the road took place,
February 28th, 1878. under foreclosure in the United States
Court, and H. C Cole became the purchaser.
A company was organized Fel)ruary 20th, 1878, a- the
" Wabash, Chester and Western Rvilroad Company," and
began operating the road April 1st, 187S W. G. Barnard
of Bellaire, Ohio, was President, and Charles B. Cole of
Chester, Illinois, Treasurer and General Jlanager. This
management leased the road to the St. Louis Coal Railroad
Company, March 25th, 1882, for forty-five years. The
main line — from Tamaroa to Chester is 40 iV.j miles ; branch
— from Chester to the Penitentiary, 1 I'u'j miles ; sidings on
the main line, 2 iVu miles; aggregate length of all tracks,
45 J Jj miles.
St. Loui.'f Olid R R. Co. was organized October 15th,
1879, by what was styled the " St. Louis Central Railroad
Company." The road was completed August, 188ti, from
Carbondale to Harrison Junction, on the Cairo and St.
Lonis Railroad, and was constructed from Murphysboro,
Jackson county, to Pinckneyville, in the spring of 1882,
connecting with the " Wabash, ("hester and Western " and
the " St. Louis and Cairo Short Line." It was subsequently
leased to the St. Louis Coal Railroad Company, which was
oro-anized as stated above. It also operates under lea.se, the R.
R. of the Carbondale and Shawncetown R. R. Co.— between
Carbondale and Marion, a distance of 171 miles. Total
length of main and leased lines 29 miles. This road has an
extensive traffic in coal, and reaches the St- Louis market
over the line of the St. Louis and Cairo Short Line R. R.
Offiirrs. — Pre.sident and General Manager, Andrew C. Bry-
den, St. Louis ; Vice-President, Edwin Harrison, St. Louis ;
General Superintendent and Secretary, James C. Bryden,
H]sT(inY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Carbondale ; Auditor, Edftiu Brown, St. Louis; Assistant
Superintendent, James Prentice, Carbondale.
ILLINOIS CENTRAL RAILROAD.
The main line of this road enters Perry County from the
uoith near the center of Taiuaroa precinct in section 4, and
extends southward through the entire county, having about
18 miles of road in the county, besides the sidings. The most
iin|xirtaut stations are Du Quoin and Tamaroa.
In September, 1850, Congress passed an act, and it was ap-
proved by President Fillmore, granting an aggregate of
2,595,051? acres, to aid in building this road. The act
grantad the right of way, and gave alternate sections of land
for sis miles on either side of the road. The grant of land
was made directly to the State. On the 10th of February,
1851, the legislature of Illinois granted a charter to an east-
ern company, represented by llnniotd and others, to build it,
with a cajiital stock of $1,000,000. The road was completed
in 1854. The legislature, in granting the charter, and trans-
fci-iiiig to the corjioration the lands, stipulated that .sfccjijucr
(I ///. of the gross earnings of the road should be paid semi-
annually into the treasury of the State forever. This wise
l)rovision, in lieu of the liberal land-grant, yields a handsome
annual revenue to the State ; also that in the event of war
government transportation should be furnished at a certain
reduction from the prices regularly paid by the general
government for such services. The proceeds of land sales
have been regularly applied to the redemption of construc-
tion bunds, and it is significant that while the original issue
of mortgage bonds amounted to §22,000,000, that amount
has been so reduced that in 1890 the whole issue will be re-
tired, and the stockholders will own a road more than 700
miles in length, fully equipped, with no outstanding liability
other than the share of capital. It may be noted here, that
when the general government donated lands to the States of
Illinois, Mississippi and Alabama, it was intended that
through the aid derived from these lands a through artery
of travel should be established between the Lakes and the
Gulf ports. Had the war not supervened, the project would
then have been carried out in its entirely, and the North and
South movement of traffic would have beoi fully developed,
but the enforced delay in carrying out the original pro-
gramme was utilized in building up the State of Illinois, and
in perfecting the track of this road. The resources of the
com))any were taxed to their utmost capacity during the
war, in furnishing transportation for the general government;
but the interests of communities along the line were carefully
watched, and a local business was built up, which in volume
and value far exceeded the most sanguine expectation of the
proprietary. Strict attention to local business has always
been a marked characteristic of Illinois Central Railroad
management, hence their lands have been eagerly sought
after; and they have the satisfaction of knowing that the
value of the road is not dependent entirely upon its identifi-
cation with the through business of the country, but on the
contribution of local traffic, which shows a permanent and
certain increase. Two years after the close of the war, in
1867, the Illinoi.^ Central Railroad Company leased three
railways in Iowa, "The Dubuque and Sioux City," "Cedar
Falls and Minnesota," and "Iowa Falls and Sioux City'
Railroads. The last named road was not, however, com-
pleted to Sioux City until 1871. These leased lines have
been extensive feeders to the Central ; and also have added
immensely to the commerce of Chicago, and have been great
auxiliaries in the development of Iowa and southern Min-
nesota.
On the opening of the Vandalla line, the Illinois Central
made its first direct advance toward securing a representation
in the traffic between Chicago and St. Louis. Two through
trains were run daily, via Effiiu/liam. In 1870, on comple-
tion of the Belleville and Illinois Southern Railroad to Du
Quoin, the southern business of the Illinois Central Railroad,
originating in St Louis, was transferable from Odin and
Ashley, the former connections with the Cairo Short Line.
Though the Illinois Ceutral Railroad put in a car-hoist at
Cairo, to obviate the difficulties incidental to the diiferent
gauge of the southern roads, the tedious transfer between
Cairo and Columbus militated against a satisfactory develop-
ment of through business, and it was not until 1873, by com-
pletion of the ]Mississippi Central Extension, from Jackson
to a point opposite Cairo, that the Illinois Central was en-
abled to compete on equal terms with rival routes to the
South for the business of the Gulf States. This extension
could not have been built without the aid of the Illinois
Central Railroad Company, which was given by exchanging
one million of Illinois Central, five per cent, sterling bonds,
which were easily negotiable in foreign markets, for five
millions of the southeru bonds, bearing sere}/ per cent, an-
nual interest, with the understanding that the difi'erence be-
tween the interest of the sterling and the so\Uhern bonds
should constitute a sinking fund for the redemption of the
bonds at maturity. The financial panic of 1873, combined
with other local causes, prevented the line between New Or-
leans and Cairo from earning sufficient to meet the annual
interest charges, and the property was placed in the hands
of a receiver, where it remained until 1S77, when a reorgan-
ization of the companies resulted in placing the direct con-
trol in the hands of the Illinois Central Railroad Comi)any.
No expense has been spared to put the road-bed and equip-
ments in first-class condition. About the same time the Illi-
nois Central Managers acquired, on favoiable terms, pos-
session of the Oilman, Clinton and Springfield Railroad,
and thereby secured in perpetuity the traffic of a valuable
section of country formerly tributary to competing roads.
At Durant, 309 miles from Cairo, connection is made with
a branch, 21 miles in length, to Kosciusko, also at Jackson
(Mississippi); the Vicksburg and Meridian Railroad fur-
nishes a line to Vicksburg, and thence via the Vicksburg^
Shreveport and Texas Railroad for Monroe, La., Shreve-
port and all points on the Texas and Pacific Railway. The
Morgan's, Louisiana and Texas Railroad, in connection with
steamers from Brashcar, furnish an alternate route to Gal-
veston and other points in Texas
The following statistics in reference to the physical con-
dition and equipment of the Illinois Central Railroad, will
not be devoid of interest : —
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AXJ> PERRY COIXTIES, II.LIXOIS.
53
MII.I-S.
Msia line, Cairo lo I.a Salli-, opened for bnsine.'?, Jnn. Sth, ISM aw 09
Galena Branch, La Salle, to Dunkirk, opened Jure I21I1, ISM MC.-3
Chiiago Branch, Chicago to Centralia Junction, opened Sept 2i'.lh, 1856, °4!i.7S
Springfield Division, Oilman to Springfield, i>pentd in Sept., Is;i 111.47
Tot.'il length of Main Line and Branches, M'.OT
Aggregate length computed as single track, 831.CA
Length of Sidings, l.''.2.G8
Total length of track owned in Illinoi.", 9W>.30
Iowa Pivi.-ion, from I<ubiiquc to Sioux City, , 327.(iO
Southern tiiviaion, from Cairo to Sew Orleans, 548.00
Minnesota Branch, from Waterloo to Mono, 8<>.00
Slaking the total-number of miles,
i',]-ii.:
The line between Chicago and Cairo is operated as the
Chicago Division ; tliat between Centralia and Dubuque as
the Northern Divifion, and the Road between Oilman and
Springfield as the Springtield Division. The tracks of the
various lines are mostly steel-rails, the road beds, especially
iu this state, are ballasted with rock, the rolling stock is ex-
cellent, and the road throughout is, in all parts, first class.
The :Main Line passe.s through the richest portion of the
state — and is the greatest thoroughfare of travel and traffic
between the North and the South.
RAILROAD LINES.
Believing that there are many farmers in these ccunties
who desire a profitable investment, we would therefore call
the attention of all who are desirous of procuring more land,
or larger farms to the large quantity of good faiming land,
the Illinois Central Railroad company still tfl'er for sale,
along their line in Marion, Fayette. CIrnton, Washington,
Jeflersou, Jackson, Perry, Franklin. Union, AVilliamson,
Alexander, and Pulaski counties in this state.
TITLE.
The title to these lands ofTereti for sale is as perfect as
huniau agency can make it. It was originally donated bj'
act of Congress to the State of Illinois, and by an act of the
State Legislature transferred to this company and its trus-
tees. No incumbrance of any kind whatever. To all who
desire in good faith to examine any of these lauds, the rail-
road company issues half-rate tickets on any of their own
lines to and from the nearest points to the land, and if such
ticket-bolder buys even a forty-acre tract, they will allow
what he paid for such ticket as part payment on the pur-
chase. These lands are productive, the climate healthy, and
prices very low — usually from S-l to S':! per acre, on easy
terras, and a low rate of interest. These lands can be pur-
chased on the following terms :
One quarter cash, with five per cent, interest for one year
in advance on the residue ; the balance payable in one, two
and three years, with five per cent, interest in advance each
year on the part remaining unpaid. For example, for
forty acres of land at S5.00 per acre, the payments would be
as follows :
Cash payment S."i0.00 principal, and 57. .*0 interest.
In one year SO.liO " " 6.00
In t«o years 50.00 " " 2.50
In three years 50.00 "
(-200.00 (15.10
Or the same land may be bought for S180.00, all cash, as ten
per cent, is deducted when all cash is paid. Full informa-
tion on all points relating to any particular locality or tract,
will be furnished on application, either in person or by
letter, to
p. Daggy, Land Commissioner,
Room 36, No. 78 Michigan Ave., Chicago, Illinois.
*'V<~^
(^uarternary. Tertiary, Carboniferous,
Devonian and ."^ilurian systems. Be-
neath them may, and, if generally
accepted theoiies be true, must be
formations of other sj-stems anteda-
ting these. The Empire State of the
Valley has mainly escaped from up-
heaval by earthquakes and volcanic
eruptions, so that her prairies spread
out in beautiful repose uninterrupted
by unsightly masses of matter from
long past ages. In the counties of Riindolph, Monroe and
Perry, the various systems penetrated thus far by man iu
his inquiries after geological truth have rewarded his re-
search quite as well as any throughout the state. The
Jlississippi with her deep grooved channel upon the West ■'
her line of bluffs following up her general course; a break
traversing the counties all contribute t.» nuike clear the
strategraphical chart. The Quarternary, Tertiary and
Carboniferous .systems present outcroppings here and there
throughout their extent.
The Quarternary, or uppermost stratum, is possessed of
greater economical value than all other formations com-
bined. It comprises the drift and all deposits above it of
whatever may be the quality of the soil. In scientific terms,
it includes the alluvium, buttora prairie, blufli' and drift of
various thicknesses, which crop out here and there upon the
surface. All those deposits which have been formed since
the inauguration of the present order of thiugs, might be
appropriately classified under the head of Alluvium as it
embraces soils, pebbles, sand, elay.s, and vegetable mold, all
of which are here found.
Soils are a well-kuown mixture of various comminuted
and decomposed mineral substances, combined and mingled
with decayed vegetable and animal remains, and composing
those ingredients so well adapted to the nourishment of the
vegetable kingdom. They are formed by the action of
water in form of rain or dew ; by atmospheric changes of
heat and cold ; by decay of vegetable and animal matter.
The soils of these counties are very deep and exceedingly pro-
ductive. The vegetable kingdom has contributed largely to
their formation. The luxuriant growth of prairie grass,
54
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
high as a man's head riding horseback (as the old settlers
are wont to say), dying with the touch of frost each autumn
to form a thin layer of vegetable mold, or. being burned by
the raging fires of the hazy Indian summer-time to add
their mite of alkali, has contributed untold wealth to the
fertility of the soil. Here and there, are clay formations
cropping out upon the surface, kindly inviting the hand
of industry to transform their barrenness into tile and brick,
and thus contribute to the general good. Immediately un-
derneath are evidences of the aqueous agencies in pebble and
formative sand rock measures, only waiting to become useful
in various ways that man's inventive genius has devised.
Upon the surface here and there, are the monuments to the
existence of a glacial period, in form of great boulders, com-
posed of quartz, feldspar, mica, and hornblend. We look
upon these massive rocks, and note nothing in common with
the formations surrounding them. Bedded in the virgin
prairie soil, poised upon its surface, their composition
declares them of different origin from other rock, and the
abrasions upon their surface, sometimes in deep longitudinal
grooves, oftentimes well rounded in general outline, declare
in plain words a long journey thitherward. Scientists have
critically examined them. Evidently the storm of centuries
have beaten upon them where they stand, and the hand of
time has broken many a fragment and piled them at their
bases, as if to number the years of their being Speculations
have been indulged as to their mighty journeyings from the
far-off North land during an age when Manitoba waves
would have been hailed as the breath of spring-time; an age
when animal and vegetable existence were alike impossible.
Borne on before the resistless power of slowly-movin'g
glaciers or icebergs, they were dropped here and there on
far-stretching prairies, or carried on the very tops of
mountains, like those of Missouri, where their piled up con-
fusion leads to the idea of a battle-field with the gods.
Who can number the ages that have rolled away since it
paused in its course, or measure the time of its journey ? or
who assay to count the time it occupied its place in the
parent ledge before the glacier or iceberg wrenched it from
its place and bore it away ?
The prairies themselves, stretching out in their beauty, —
nay, in silent grandeur, — have invited man's genius to assign
to natural cause their origin, and declare the years of their
formation. Much scientific discussion has been indulged
respecting thera. Prof Leo Lesquereux, in report of the
State Geologist of Illinois, asserts that they, with their pecu-
liar surface soil, owe their origin to the same causes that are
at present operating to form prairies, though on a less exten-
sive scale- The black, rich soil is doubtless, he says, due to
the growth and decay of successive crops of vegetation,
which, in the geological ages of the past, under a far higher
temperature and more favorable atmospheric conditions than
now exist, grew to an extent unknown since the appearance
of man upon the earth. These prodigious crops of plants
and grasses were from year to year submerged, and becom-
ing decomposed, contributed their annual accumulations to
the surface of the country. By the continuation of this pro-
cess for untold centuries, and by the subsequent recession of
the waters that once covered the entire Mississippi Valley,
a black, mucky soil was formed, and the whole region
emerged as vast swamps or swales interspersed with hills and
valleys, mountains and table-lands. These, by gradual
growth, became outlined in prairies.
In each of the three counties here treated of, great deposits
of coal have been found. The age of these formations would
prove a study of interest. That of coal can be computed
more accurately than any other encountered beneath us. It
has been calculated that thirty feet of vegetable matter
would be required to form one foot of coal. What must
then have been the plant growth which gave us such vast
deposits.
RANDOLPH COUNTY.*
The surface deposits of this county comprise the three
usual sub-divisions of the Quarternary system, designated as
alluvium, marly deposit known as " loess" and drift. The
most important alluvial deposit in the county is that known
as the American Bottom, which follows the great river from
the northwest corner of the county southward to the mouth
of the Kaskaskia, having a width varying from four to fif-
teen miles. This belt is exceedingly productive, and but
for the overflows to which it is subjected, would be by far
the most valuable land of the county. The soil is quite
sandy, but is intermingled with humus or vegetable mold
or clay from the sediments of the river, forming a rich warm
soil of unsurpassed fertility.
The loess is a deposit of light brown or buff siliceous marl,
sometimes also quite calcareous It caps the blufis of the
Mississippi and other streams of the county, and is of a
thickness varying from ten to sixty feet, or even m^ire. It
generally contains great numbers of bleached shells. It
gives origin to the bald knobs, that are often a conspicuous
feature in the river bluffs. Ttie drift deposits of this county
comprise a series of brown and yellow clays, intermingled
locally with gravel and small pebbles, spread over the en-
tire surface of the uplands, and underlying the loess where
both are present. Boulders of igneous' character are occa-
sionally seen in the valleys. Specimens of galena, analogous
to the ores of Potosi in southeast Missouri, are frequently
found beneath the soil in this county. Whether native, or
transported by human agency, or yet b}' easterly currents,
carrying them from their resting places across the river, is a
subject for speculation. The stratified rocks exposed at the
surface include a portion of the lower coal measures, from
the micaceous sandstone above coal No. 6 in the general
section to the base of the measures, together with the Chester
group and the St. Louis group of the lower carboniferous
limestone series.
Coal Measures. — The beds exposed in the county that be-
long to the coal measures comprise a series of micaceous
sandstones, limestones, and shales, with two seams of bitu-
minous coal. The thickness of the whole, including the
conglomerate at the base, probably does not exceed two hun-
» We nre indebted to the State Geological Reports for much data bearing on
the Geology of these counties.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTJES, ILLINOIS.
55
dred and fifty feet. The followiug vertical section shows
the succession and comparative thickness of these beds :
Micaceous sandstone and shale ao to 40 feet.
Band of limestone 3 "
Shale 1-.! "
Limestone and bituminous shale 4 *■ 0 "
Coal (Bellevillel 0 •• 8 "
Fire-clay and nodular limestone 3 " G "
Shale or shaly sandstone .'iij " 40 "
Limestone 3 '* 4 "
Bituminousshale 3 " & '*
Coal No. j (7) 2 " 4 "
Fire clay 2 '■ 4 -
Shii'e and .sandst4jne ( ■unglotneralf) ,M> " lao ■'
The coal measures underlie about one-third of the county,
being that part known as the prairie district. The sand-
stone and shales that form the base of this group of strata
give origin to a more broken surface. Of the coal mea-
sures, two are developed in this county, the Belleville coal
(No. 6) and a lower seam, probably No. .5 The Belleville
coal seam is very regular, with an average thickness of about
six feet. It almost invariably has a good roof, composed
either of limestone or hard bituminous shale, either of which
makes a subtantial roofing, both safe and economical. In
a few places, packets of a conglomerate have been found in
this roofing, notably in a shaft sunk near Coulterville, the
giving way of which is attended with disastrous results.
The coal from this seara is compact, of a bright color, and
comparatively free from pyrites. Sometimes it rests upon a
bed of fire-clay, but more frequently on one of argillaceous
limestone. The over-cropping limestones are fossiliferous.
The out-cropping of the coal measures, which underlie the
northwestern part cf the county, is along Mary's river. At
Pope's bank the coal is deposited in five distinct layers,
measuring respectively sixteen, twelve, fifteen, sixteen, and
one and a half feet-
At Boyd's coal mines, one mile west of Spaita, the coal is
obtained by a shaft sunk to the depth of about fifty feet
through the following beds :
Cluy ,um1 grnvel 20 feet.
Limestone 2 "
Shale 15 "
Limestone 5 " '
<'oal 0 •'
The dip is slightly easterly, and does not exceed 5°. A
mile and a half northeast is Wood's coal mine, where the
coal is reached at a depth of forty feet. It is overlaid with
bituminous shale and limestone. In the vicinity of Steels-
ville, the coal is of an average thickness of six feet, and is
found from twenty-five to thirty feet below the surface.
Four miles to the south it out-crops in the bluffs along Cos's
creek.
Chester Group. — The following vertical section gives an
idea of comparative thickness and relative position of the
different members of this group:
Grey silioious limestone No. 1 2.5 to 30 feet.
Shalesaudshaly sandstones, with fossil plants . 80 " OO "
Shaly liinest ,ne No. 2 15 " 18 '•
Massive brown sandstone 40 **
Limestone No. 3, upper bed at Chester 40 " 45 "
tireen and blue argillaceous shales, with plates
of limestone 45 '* 70 "
Arenaceous and ar^illaccovis limestone No 4 . . 20 to 30 feet.
Massive and shaly saiid.-^tonc . 15 " 20 "
Compact and granular grey limestone No. .0 . . 150 "
Passive quartzose brown sandstone 120 ''
This group attains its greatest thickness in the southern
part of the county. At Chester the middle portion of this
group forms the greater portion of the river bluff, and the
beds afford the following section at this point :
Green and purple scales 8 feet.
Compact grey limestone 10 '*
Limestone, irregular, partly ujdular and partly argil-
laceous 32 "
Green and argillaceous shales, with thin plates of lime-
stone and ferruginous hands 70 "
Compost grey limestone, with intercalated beds of blue
aiKl green clay shales «2 "
Total 202 "
Adjacent to the city, and partly exposed on the hill-tops,
is a bed of i]uartzose sandstone This sandstone is overlaid
with another limestone which m.iy be found as you journey
farther from the river, so that like step-stones these forma-
tions rise one above another, exposed as the aqueous abra-
sions have by lapse of time laid them bare. Near the Peni-
tentiary buildings the top of the limestone is eighty feet
above low water level of the river, and is overlaid by a mas-
sive sandstone about fifteen feet in thickness. Below Ches-
ter, limestone almost wholly made up of crinoidea and fish
teeth abounds — a limestone susceptible of a high polish.
At Prairie du Rocher, the bluff is composed of the massive
grey limestone of the St. Louis group, but before reaching
tlie general level of the adjacent country we pass over the
lower sandstone of the Chester group, and the limestones
and shales of the higher beds are found expo.std on all
the small streams between the bUifis and Red Bud.
At Red Bud, the sinking of a shaft presented the following
record of strata :
Surface clay 18 feet.
Grey limestone, conUiiuing fossils found in the Chester
group 13 "
Clay shale 46 "
Economical Geology, — Elsewhere in this work soils are
treated of, and in presenting a brief view of what is appro-
priately termed economical geology, we shall only call atten-
tion to the minerals that furnish the basis of future wealth
and importance to this county.
Vodl — By far the most valuable and important mineral
deposit underlies fully one third of the county. It has been
calculated that the yield of a coal seam is one million tons to
the square mile for every foot of thickness of the seam, and
consequently the yield of the upper seam as here found
would aggregate six million tons. Then if three hundred
square miles of the county are thus underlaid the enormous
amount of eighteen hundred million tons of coal awaits the
application of human genius in its exhumation. Then, too,
yet beneath this partially developed seam is another with
probably one-third as much more coal. Mining coal, a
comparatively new industry, is being rapidly pro.seculed, and
with constantly increasing facilities for its transportation,
and not only this, but for transfer of rude ores from the
mountains of Missouri, to be changed as if by a magician's
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
wand into various forms of utility and beauty through its
agency. It is destined to grow and demand enlarged facili-
ties for exhumation and carriage. Manufacturing interests
are taking hold, and will be within the next decade more
than double in number and capacity.
Bnildinf/ Stone. — Enough stone, and that too, of superior
quality — abounds here to supply the state f jr centuries. Its
presence was one of the great inducements offered in behalf
of the location of the State Penitentiary at Chester. To
particularize, the St. Louis limestone, abundant in the north-
western part of the county, rising full two hundred feet in
height, could be made available for the heaviest masonry, as
well as for foundation-walls for dwellings, for flag-stones, etc.
The lower sandstone of the Chester group, an excellent free-
stone, which can be sawed or cut easily when freshly quar-
ried, hardening on exposure, will furnish, practically, inex-
haustib'e supplies for various purposes of art. Then the
lower limestone of the same group, for all manner of archi-
tectural display, is most excellent ; for caps, for cornices,
for columns, and for shafts it is well adapted. Much of it
is susceptible of a high polish, and will be availed of by way
of ornamentation.
Lime. — Stone employed in its manufacture abounds. The
best is found in the vicinity of Prairie da Rucher. It is
not surpassed by any calcareous deposit in the Mississippi
valley for the production of a superior quality of lime.
Clays. — The fire clay which underlies each of the coal
seams nny be useil advantageously. Clay for the mauufxc-
ture of brick of fair quality everywhere abounds, underly-
ing the surface soil.
MONROE COUNTY.
As iu Randolph we find along the great river, following
its course, a widespread bottom presenting its inexhaustible
alluvial deposits. Soil sandy, intermingled with humus or
vegetable mold and clay from the sediments of the river.
Hemming in the great water way, as if to check its overflow,
are great bluffs of varied character. The disturbances in
the regular stratification of rocks are very marked, there
being two decided axes. The nucleus of the more northern
one is the Keokuk limestone, which is well exposed near
Columbia on a small creek. Above the exposure is a brown-
ish-gray and cherty limestone, forming about forty feet of
its bulk, while the remaining ten feet consists of blue calcareo-
argillaceous shales with small geodes of quartz. Immediate-
ly west, the overlying St. Louis limeston ■ dips full 20 degs.
south, while on the eastern side of the axis the dip in the
opposite direction varies from 8 to 12 degs., thus forming a
trough or valley, and indicating, at some time away back
in the sleeping ages, mighty convulsions of nature which
have pushed upwards out of their natural beds great mas.ses
of rock, different from their fellows, upon either hand.
These convulsions speak of an age antedating the carboni-
ferous period, since coal measures in regular lines cross the
valley, intervening the exposures of the Keokuk limestone.
The other axis is to the south and shows the elevation of the
Saccharoidal sandstone. Its extent is limited, as it rapidly
sinks to the eastward beneath shales and limestones of the
Lower Carboni.'erous series.
The relative position and comparative thickness of the
stratified rocks in this county are shown iu the following
section :
No. 1. Cial lupa^nre.si 40 to .W foet.
Xo. 2. Chester Kionp Km to :i'.il feet.
N.i. ;;. rppc-r St Louis limestone 140 to l.'Jl feet.
No. 4. Lowel- St. Louis or W:U'.s:uv VJO to l:'.0 IVt't,
No..-.. Keolcok liojestone loll fcet.
No. 0. Iturlinu'ton limestone 7o to lull feet.
No. 7. Kiudiuhook (jroup so to IIKJ feet-
No. 8. Trenton limestone 12(1 feet.
The a^^regate thickness of these rocks may be estimated
at about oue thousand feet, and they represent a very large
portion of the whole Paleozoic series below the coal meas-
ures, as that series is developed in Southern Illinois. No
part of the State presents more interesting phases of geo-
logical research than here. Coal is found throughout the
basin formed by the break in the formations already referred
to, and is necessarily confined to a narrow strip. Breaks in
coal measures, being quite as uneven as the basis on which
they rest, make successful mining hazardous. At a number
of points within the isolated synical basin, coal was found,
and in some places successfully rained. Gall's coal mines,
on the northwest quarter of section 3, township 2 south,
range 4 west, have been quite extensively worked and
abandoned. The beds exposed give the following section :
fuloareons shales C (o s feet.
I oui part ar(;illiieeou-s limestone 3 to 4 feet.
P.ilmninons shale I to 3 feet.
Cal. liellevillescam :Uo 4 feet.
Ciiloareoils shnlesauil no lul.ir limestone .T to 4 feet.
Sliule tiiul shiily .siinilstone Ij feet
No. 2. Chester Group. — As developed in this county is
the upper group of the lower carboniferous system, consists
of a heavy bed of sandstone forming its lower division, aljove
which are two or three beds of limestone alternating with
sandy and argillaceous shales and sandstones. In thickness
they are less than in Randolph county, and as we travel
north grow more and more so. In places the rock of this
group is massive and concretionary in structure, then again,
fossiliferous, consisting of coarse, granular and partly crinoi-
dal limestone.
Nos. 3 and 4 St LouL? Limestone. Upper and Loiver.
Occurs in extensive outcrops in the county, and in two well-
marked divisions. The upper consists mainly of light-gray
compact, regularly bedded limestones, with some thin shaly
partings, and the lower of buff or brown marly and partly
maguesian beds, and with some very massive layers of a serai-
oolitic, nearly white limestone. Exposures of these groups
are met with to the east and north of the Chester group.
'Ihe sink holes met with are a sure guide to the extent of
these formations, they being only formed where the upper
division of this group forms the bed-rock.
No. 5. Keokuk Group. — Exposures of this group are rare
in this county, forming as it does the nucleus of the anticlinal
axis passing near Columbia. It has been found to be com-
posed of coarse-grained gray limestone, yellow calcareous
shale, blue shale, cherty gray limestone and bedded chert.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
No. 6. Burliiiyton LlmrstDin' — May include the bedded
chert attributed above to the Kenkuk group. It is couliiicd
to the viciuity of Salt Lick Point where it forms the upper
escarpment of tiie bluH'. It consists of alternations of light-
gray crinoidal limestone and chert. Tiie bluff where found
is the highest between St. Louis and Chester, presenting
from its summit a grand panorama of river and valley.
Nu. 7. K'lHih'fhQok Group. — Seemingly out of its place,
having by some agency been pushe<I entirely out of its rela-
tive position, usurping that of the Devonian and upper Silu-
rian groups, is found only in the vicinity of the foregoing
group, and consists of ashen gray shales, which pass upward
into chocolate-colored shales and limestones.
No. 8. Tretitoii Limestone. — The oldest formation found
in Southern Illinois. Its presence is attributable to like
causes with the three preceding groups. It forms a low ledge
of massive gray limestone at the base of a blufl' about two
miles below Eagle elitf. Wherever it outcrops it consists of
heavy bedded yellowish gray crystalline limestones, inter-
sected with vertical fissures or joints. These vertical fissures
are, in places most marked, separating great columns so that
thev stand apart like silent sentinels. Some of them are
from forty to fifty feet in height. They have locally received
the a|)peIlation of the " stoue chimneys "
Ei-oiiomien/ Geolofjy. — In his report the State Geologist
savs there is no county in Southern Illinois more abundantly
supplied with buikling stone of various qualities than this,
and it is so generally distributed over all portions of the
county as to be easily accessible to every neighborhood.
The stratified rocks arc here something more than a thousand
feet in thickness, and fully one-half may be considered of
economical value. The sandstone that forms the basis of
the Chester group will furnish an unlimited supply of excel-
lent building stone. It generally is compact, free from
foreign substances, but sometimes shows a concretionary
structure ; where this is the case it can be readily quarried
as it splits evenly in blocks of required sizes. It works
easilv under the chisel, and hardens on exposure. The lime-
stones of the same group furnish some good material suitable
for rough walls. The rock most generally used, however,
comes from the St. Louis group which furnishes the bed rock
of a much larger area of territory than iloes any other. It
is mostly a compact, fine grained, bluish-gray limestone,
weathering to a nearly white color, and generally lies in
regular beds of fair workable thickness from size suitable for
flagging, curb-stones, &c., to blocks of two feet thickness.
Most of the macadamizing material used in the county is
obtained from the hard, bluish-gray limestones of this group.
Dimension stone of any required thickness and form is
obtainable from the lower division of this group. It is one
of the best building stones in the county. In the next or
Burlington group the rock is too cherty for use.
Marbl''. — The Trenton limestone aflibrds some beds of light-
gray crystalline thick-bedded rock that receives a fine polish,
and the thickly imbedded organic forms give to the polished
surface a slightly mottled appearance, pleasing to the'eye. It
mav be obtained at Salt Lick Point in inexhaustible
quantities.
8
tb((/. —As already indicated the only c lal found in this
county is that obtained in the valley or basin formed by the
upheavals on either side. Tlie valley is narrow and coal
seams irregular throughout its e.xtent, being found in pack-
ets. The veins where found are of uneven thickne.<s, rang-
ing from thin leaves to four feet.
Iron Ore may be found thick enough to prove of some
economical value at the junction of the Chester and St.
Louis groups. Its presence is indicated, ami a band, appar-
ently of good quality, is here exposed.
Hi/draulic LimciifoKc—Tha manufacture of cement is of
sufficient importance to cause thorough examination to de-
termine the existence of Hydraulic limestone in workable
quantities. That it exists here is well known, whether in
quantity and of quality to re-pay investment in its mining
and reduction is problematic.
LimcKtonfi for Lime. — This county could afiord sufficient
lime, that too, of most excellent quality, to supply all the
demands that could possibly be made upon it for centuries.
Lime kilns are here and there operated successfully, and at a
hundred other points might be constructed to the advantage
of proprietors.
Brick Materliih. — Clay suitable for the manufacture of
brick everywhere abounds, and sand may be readily sup-
plied from the banks of adjacent streams.
PERRY COUNTY.
The geological formations of this county are restricted
to the coal measures and tha superficial deposits known as
drift. The coal measure strata that formed the original sur-
face in this region, consist mainly of arenaceous, argillaceous
and bituminou-i shales, fine-grained sand stones, and thin
bjds of silicious and argillaceous limestone. The drift de.
posits above the coal measures are comparatively thin.
Perhaps a medium would be represented by the following
section :
Soil and .«ub-soil
Keddish Clay . . .
.Sand ADd gravel .
Yellow tough cla.v
Beneath this clay last named, is encountered a blue mud,
which is rich in vegetable remains, or in places where the
stratified rocks belonging to the coal measures are reached,
the blue mud being absent. The coal measures embrace a
depth of about three hundred feet. At Tamaroathe follow-
ing section was obtained :
Soft micaceous sandstones 1^ f'
Sandy Shale 20
Massive hard ferruginous sandstone 10
lilue clay shale 2o
Impure Iron ore, with fossil shelU -
Bituminous Sliale 3
Coal So. 8 0 9
Fireclay . 3
Sandstone ^^
Sandy Shale 102
Hard calcareous sandstone 3
Black carbonaceous slate 1
Clay Shale . ■ 3
Hard, arenaceous, slaty rock 16
Clay Shale '
Light-grey, sub-crystalline limestone 8
58
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Bituminous Shale 2 ft.
Coal, i-oinetimes wanting No. 6 ? 2 "
Fire clay or clny nhale 3 "
Limestone, light-colored, nrcnaceous 7 "
Gray S ale 6 "
Jjimestone *"• "
Shales, with fossil rlants i5 "
Coal No. 5 ? .li to 7 ft.
Clay shale, witli nodules of limestone 15 "
At other points throughout the county workable veins of
coal were found at much lets depths. The Black Diamond
mine exhibits the following section :
Clay, (-urface material) 24 f^et.
Limestone 9 "
Clay Shale 1 '•
Bituminous Sliale 1 "
Coal 1 "
Fire-clay 4 "
Limestone f' "
Clay Shale ■'"' "
Limestone 7
Blue clay shale li "
Hard, dark-colored limestone 3 "
Bituminous Shale 2 "
Coal ...••• _5 "
93 "
At Pinckneyville the depth is only some forty to fifty /eet
to coal, which out-crops on a ravine southeast of the town
in section 30, T. 5 S. R. 2 W.
Eeonoviiml Geolof/y. — Perhaps no county in Southern
Illinois offers superior inducements to the mining of coal
than this. The accessibility and quality of the coal are
both in its favor. Mr. Pratten's analysis of the Du Quoin
coal gave the following result :
Specific gravity 1.24C
Loss in coking 48 5
Total weight of coke 51.1-ltio
Moisture 8.')
Volatile matters 40.4
Carbon in coke 48.1
Ashes (light gray) 3 (1-1(10
Carbon in coal .'JO.C
The analysis when compared with that of other bituminous
coal found throughout the state is favorable to the Du Quoin.
In reference to the accesi-ibility, not alone is the coal found
throughout this county at comparatively little depth, but the
roofing is superior, being in places a hard, blue limestone.
Where it is a bituminous shale it is not so good.
The amount of accessible coal in this county is enormous.
The State Geologist in his report estimates it at two billion,
four hundred million tons, which at Si. 50 per ton would
yield 13,600,000, and adds that this estimate is undoubtedly
below rather than above the actual amount of coal to be ob-
tained from the beds underlying the surface of this county
alone. Here then, would we look for the future manufactur-
ing establishments of Southern Illinois, for the erection of
smelters, furnaces, iron industries, foundries, &c. An era
of prosperity awaits the hand of industry, and the mining of
her black diamonds will expedite its advent.
Building Slone. — In this, Perry county is deficient.
Material suitable for foundation walls is found and .some
adapted to such masonry as enters into making of bridges
and culverts is accessible. Some of the limestone out-
cropping is adapted to the manufacture of quick-lime,
and has been thus used. The sand-stones, are too soft for
general uses, but are used for flagging, light walls, &c.
Sand and Clay for the manufiicture of brick may be
found almost in any place where it may be desirable to
manufacture them : and from the abundance of coal, and
the economy with which they" can be burned, brick will
always be one of the cheapest and most easily obtained
materials for building purposes in this county.
CHAPTER V.
N treating of the flora of these coun-
ties, it is not our purpose to treat
exhaustively on all the plants of
the respective counties, but rather
to give a list of the native trees
and grasses found within their
limits. The intelligent and prac-
tical husbandman first looks to
the native vegetation as a dial to
be governed by in determining the value of new lands. The
growth, size, and kinds of timber will, to a great extent,
decide and determine the qualities of the soil for agricultural
purposes.
The botanist, in making a survey of the State, classes it
under three heads : the heavily timbered regions of the
South, the flora of which is remarkable for its variety and
beauty ; the central portion, consisting mainly of prairie
region ; and the North, which is a combination of both
timber and prairie. These counties represent the charac-
teristics of the latter, having a fair proportion of each, also
including the American Bottom varieties. Many of the
early species of the vegetable kingdom have changed and
passed out of sight since the coming of the Anglo-Saxon.
The " buffalo grass," which formerly grew only upon the
prairies, and the high pampas gra.ss, have become extinct
and given place to blue grass and other varieties sown and
cultivated by the present tillers of the soil. The plants are
many and rare, peculiar to this climate and latitude. Among
the most important for medical purposes we find the bone-
set, ginseng, Colombo, pennyroyal, pink-root, Indian turnip,
sarsaparilla, and other varieties too numerous to mention.
The native plants of beauty are the lily, phlox, golden rod,
eye-bright gerardia, asclepias, and hundreds more which
adorn the meadows and flower-gardens of this section of the
Prairie State. Beside these, there are the climbing vines,
which fill the forest with beautiful festoons of artistic form,
such as the woodbine, grape, clematis, bitter-sweet, etc. The
trees and grasses, however, engage the special attention of
the traveler. The many varieties of oak, hickory, and elm,
are in abundance, — the giant cottonwoods, sycamore, walnut.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
59
and hundreds more that wave in the breeze, attest the
virtue of the soil and the excellence of climate to produce
what Dame Nature has so bountifully brought forth.
The following are the indigenous floral and vegetable
products of these counties : Foa pratensis—spenr-gmss ;
Poa compremin — blue-grass ; Armeimi triphijUnm—lndiaa
turnip; Thijplatifolia—csit-ta\l; Sagittarla i'«ri')4(/is— arrow-
head ; Cypripedium piiheseens — yellow lady's slipper;
Cypripedium candidum— white lady's slipper, common ;
Cannabis saticd — hemp; Humidici lupulus — hop, com-
mon ; Datura stramonium — Jamestown weed ; Axclepinx cor-
fiiiti — milk weed ; Fraxinus Americana — white ash ; Fraxinug
sambunfoUa—h]&ck ash ; Phijtolaef.a decandra — poke weed ;
Amyrantua hybridiis—])ig weed ; Riimex crispus— sour dock ;
Sassafras officinale — sassafras ; Batjitin odoriferus — fever
bush; Marntbiuin rnhjare — hoarhound ; So/anum nigrum^
night-shade ; Pliysalis iv'.sroxa — ground cherry ; Monanla di-
dym-i — horsemint; Nepeta cataria — catnip; Hedcuma pulc-
yioides — pennyroyal; Diospyrox mrginiana — persimmon ;
Plantago major — plantain ; Verbascum thap.-<ii.-< — mullein, com-
mon ; Cissium lancfolatam — common thistle ; Lappa major —
burdock ; Taraxacum dcas-leonis — dandelion, common, been
introduced during the last forty years ; Erecth ites hieracifolia —
fire-weed ; Ambrosia artemisvfulia — rag weed; Xaidhiuin
stramarium — cockle burr; Bidens bipinnata — Spanish needle ;
Bideiischrysanthemoides — beggar ticks ; Mantn cutula — May-
weed ; Leucaiitlwmum rulyare — ox-eye daisy. Another plant
which has become quite common in Randolph county, along
the bluff near Kaskaskia, is a species of the flag. It was
brought from France by one of the old French families, on
account of its floral beauty. The berries that it bears are a
special delight of the birds, and the result is that the whole
section of country is likely to be inoculated with its presence.
Eupatorium perfoliatum — thoroughwort, not common ;
Cornus Florida, dogwood ; Sambueus Canadensis — elder, very
common ; Ribes cynosbidi — wild gooseberry ; Tynw eoronaiia
— wild crab, abundant.
Crateyus, several species ; Rosa setiyera — climbing rose ;
Rubus liicida — dwarf wild rose ; Rnbus ivYAysKS— blackberry,
abundant.
Asimina triloba — papaw, quite abundant along the creek
bottoms; Nelunbium luteum — May apple, abundant in
shady places.
Saiiyuinaria Canadensis, or hloodroot ; Lepidium Viryini-
rum —wild pepper grass ; Poriulaca Oleracea, or purslane ;
Titia Americana, or linden; Xanthoxyhun Americanina —
prickly ash ; Rlius typhina — sumach; Rhus toxicodendron —
poison oak; Vitis oestiralis — summer grape, common ; Viti^
cordifotia—trost grape; Ampelopsis quinquefolia — Virginia
creeper ; ^Eaculus pavia — buckeye ; Acer saccharinum — sugar
maple ; Acer dasycarpum — white maple ; Neyundo aceroides
— box elder; Baptisia tincforia — indigo weed, not abundant;
Cereis Canadensis — red-bud ; Gymnoclad ns Canadensi<< —
Kentucky coffee- tree ; Gleditsehia tracanthos — honey locust;
Prunus Americana — red plum; Piunus ehieasa — Chickasaw
plum; Prunus errotina—wUd cherry; Fragarin Viryiniana
— wild strawberry ; Rubus occidentalis^h\a.c]!i cap raspberry ;
Rubiis Canadoisis — dewberry, common.
Popuhis nngu/atd — cotton-wood, abundant.
iSalix — willow, several varieties.
Alnus serrulafn — alder.
Betula — birch ; Carpinus Ainericann — horu-beau, not com-
mon.
Corylus Americana — hazel nut; Cutanea pumili — chin-
quapin.
Quereuj< rubra — red oak; Qnerrns tinctnria — black oak;
Quercu-s nigra — black jack; (^wreu'< inibriciria — laurel
oak ; Quercus prinua — chestnut white oak ; Q uerc us casta nea —
yellow oak, not common ; Quereus alba — white oak, common ;
Qnereus obstiloba — post oak, abundant.
Carya glabra —pig-nut hickory ; C^iirreas macrocarpa —
overcup oak ; Carya tomentosa — white heart hickory ; Carya
alba — shell bark hickory; Cirya ulieiej'ornus — pecan, com-
mon.
Jnylans nigra — black walnut, abundant ; Juglans cinerea,
— butter-nut, not common.
Platan us occldentalis — sycamore.
Ulmus fuh-i, — red elm ; Moras rubra — red mulberry ;
Urtica dloica — stinging nettle; Ulmus AniTicma — white
elm, abundant.
In the above list we have given the scientific as well as
the English names, believing such a course to pursue in the
study of plants more beneficial to the student or general
reader. There may b3 some plants omitted, yet we think the
list quite complete.
CHAPTER VI
HE study of Natural History is always
interesting to all ages and classes of so-
ciety, and more especially the animal
kingdom of our own inhabitation, both
the fauna of the past and present. It
is ditticult for those of the present day to
believe that the wild buffalo of the West-
ern plains once roamed over the prairies
east of the Mi3sissi|)pi ; or that the
Elk and Black Bear were on their native heath in this part
of the country only a little more than half a century ago.
Many other varieties of animals, which found their homes
ill the forests and on the prairies of this part of the state,
have fled before civilization, and are now seen by our chil-
dren only in the cages of the menagerie. In order to more
fully interest and inform the reader, pertaining to this
science, we here append in a classified form the most im-
portant animals indigenous to this region.
l'.VGUL.\TA, OR HOOFED.
Of the hoofed animals, one of the most prominent is the
American Bison {Biton, or Bos Americanas,) which disap-
peared from the prairies of Illinois before the arrival of the
white man, leaving, as the only evidence of its former pres-
60
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
ence, a few " buffalo wallows " in certain parts of the state.
The bison is a large animal, with thick, heavy body, short,
stout legs, short, black horns, and black, or brown shaggy
hair. Large herds of these animals at present roam over
the plains at the eastern base of the Eocky Mountains.
Like the mastodon and other ancient animals, the bison is
destined at no distant day to become extinct. The American
Elk {Cerms Americaniis,') next to the moo.se, is the largest
deer of America. It is remarkable for the size of its
antlers, which sometimes grow to the height of six feet, and
weigh from forty to eighty pounds. The animal itself is about
as tall as an ordinary horse, is very fleet, and has wonderful
lowers of endurance. It long ago left the prairies of Illinois,
and is now found in the northern parts of the United States
and in British America. The deer family (Ccrvidce) has
had, so far as is known, only one representative in this
region, viz. : the common American deer, (Ccrvus Yhyini-
aniis,) which disappeared from its prairie haunts several
years ago, and is found in the mountainous regions of Mis-
souii and the unsettled parts of other states. Its flesh is
very sweet and palatable, and it is highly prized in the
finest markets, where it commands a ready sale at the high-
est price.
C'.\RSIVORI, OR FLESH-EATERS.
The most ferocious animal of the carnivorous order, com-
mon to this country, is the wolf, which belongs to the dog
family {Canida). There were formerly two species of this
animal in these counties,viz.: the prairie wolf ( C'k/ii'js lalrnns),
and the common American, or gray wolf (0(;(/«f)CT'/rfe)i;o/('.>;).
The former is tmall, with long body, elongated, sharp muz-
zle, smooth tongue, and like all the dog family, has five-
toed fore-feet and four-toed hind ones. It formerly inhabited,
in large numbers, the wild prairie regions, but latterly has
disappearwl from this part of the state. The latter is large,
with long, sJim body, long, sharp muzzle, smooth tongue, and
straight, bushy tail. In years gone by the howling of these
wolves was the evening serenade of the pioneer settlers, and
foreboded havoc among the flocks of those times. A few of
this species are still found in dense woodlands and unfre-
quented thickets on the prairies. Two species of fox ( Vulpes)
are found here, the common or Gray Fox {Vulpes mdgaris),
and the Red Fox ( Vvlpcs fidrvs). The former are still
numerous in this region ; the latter, rare. Both species are
noted for their extreme cunning, and their predatory habits.
Foxes are readily distinguished by their slender, pointed
muzzle, long,bushy tail, aod the elliptical pupil of the eye.
Of the Cat family (Fr/ida), the only two indigenous repre-
sentatives are the American wild-cat {Lijiix rvfus), and the
Canadian lynx (Lynx eaiiiidfrisin). The former was very
common during the early history of this country. It was
about thirty inches long, of a pale rufous color, dappled
with gray, ears black ou the outside, tail short, with black
patch above the end. It was very destructive to lambs, kids,
poultry, etc. It has, within the last few years, almost dis-
appeared. The lynx was never common in Illinois, though
it was occasionally seen thirty years ago, and even later. It is
about forty inches long, of a grayish color, streaktd with black ;
ears tipped with a bunch of black hairs, and tail very short.
It is further distinguished by having one molar less than the
true cat, in each side of the upper jaw. The panther {Felia
]}(irdii!^) was also an early inhabitant of this region, although
not numerous. The common Raccoon (Procyon lofor) is
one of the most familiar wild animals in these parts. It in-
habits the timbered regions, generally near some stream or
body of water, to which it resorts for food, in the shape of
craw-fish, frogs, mussels, etc. It also feeds upon roots, ber-
ries, young corn, " roasting-ears," birds, and other small
animals. This animal, from the end of its nose to the tip
of its tail, i.s about two feet long, and has a pointed muzzle,
five toes on each foot, and a ringed tail. It is nocturnal in
its habits, and in cold climates passes the winter in a par-
tially torpid state. Its fur is valuable. The raccoon be-
longs to the family of Procyonid(v, of which it is probably
the only representative in this region.
The weasel family {3Iuslclida-), belong to the well-known
animals, minks, skunks, otters, common weasels, etc , most of
which have long, slender bodies, five-toed feet, and glands
which secrete a liquid of very disagreeable odor. Otters and
minks are hunted for their furs, which are very valuable.
The former are amphibious, and are at present rarely seen.
The costly fur called ermine is obtained from a weasel which
inhabits the northern parts of Europe and Asia.
Weasels are brown in summer and white iji winter, the tip
of the tail being black. The color of minks is dark-brown,
or black, throughout the year. The otter {Lutra canadeims)
is black, and is noted for its size and strength. Its toes are
webbed; head large and flat; ears short; tail slightly flat-
tened, and nails crooked. It is aquatic, and subsists on fish.
Minks and weasels prey on birds, poultry and small animals
of various kinds. The skunk {Mephitis Aniericauio has a
pointed nose, bushy tail, and is nocturnal. It feeds upon beetles
and other small animals. It is also fond of eggs. It was
very common a few years ago, but like most of the wild
animals, is gradually disappearing. Of the opos.sum family
{Didelphidida:), the only species here is the common opossum
{Didelphys Virginiana). Opossums are small animals, about
twenty inches long to the tail,whicli is from twelve to fifteen
inches in length, nearly bare, and prehensile. Its hair is
whitish with dark-brown tips. When captured and wounded,
it feigns itself dead. It is a marsupial, or pouched animal,
and carries its young, which at birth weigh only a few
grains, in a ventral pouch situated near its hind-legs. On
emerging from this pouch, which occurs four or five weeks
from birth, the young twine their tails around that of their
mother, and thus supported ride on her back. The opossum
lives on birds, eggs, insects and other small animals. This
animal, like the raccoon, is found in all parts of the United
States and throughout most of North America.
E0DENTI.4, OR GNAWER.'*.
The animals of this order are easily distinguished by their
teeth. In the front part of each jaw they have two chisel-
shaped incisors, between which and the molars is a consider-
able space without teeth, these animals having no canines.
The largest representative of the rodents ever known in this
country is the American beaver (C'osto?' canadensis). The
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MOXHOE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
61
rats and mice Qlurida) constitute the most numerous family
of the rodents. They number, in all, about three hundred
species in the world.
Their appearance and habits are too well known to require
description here. The black rat {Mus rrittu-^) was formerly
very common, but of late years it has been almost extirpated
by the brown, or Norway rat {Mus deeumaiuts), which is
much larger and stronger.
Of the mice we note, as found here, the common house-
mouse I Mii,i miL-'culm), the field-mouse, the meadow-mouse,
the jumping-mouse (Janihis liudsonius of the family Jacu-
lidce), — which has a body about three inches long and a tail
six inches, — and the tree-mouse. The musk-rat ( Ondatra
zibethitiis), allied to the beaver, has but one species. This
animal is about the size of a cat, and has a strong, musky
smell. It is amphibious, building its mud houses in ponds
and shallow lakes. It is a native of North America, and is
still quite common. Its fur, like that of the beaver, is valu-
able. The fur of the latter i.s used for making the finest
hats.
The squirrel family (Sciui-ida) is represented here by the
red (fox) squirrel (Schirus hitdm>iiti-<}, the gray squirrel
{Sciurua Cni-olliiciifi.''}, the flying-squirrel {Pt/romy.i vfilu-
cellri), the ground-stjuirrel {Tamla-f !'lri(diis), the gopher
(Spermnphihis), the prairie squirrel and the woodchuck or
ground-hog ( ArHoiin/n monax), all of which are so common
that they need not be described.
Of the hare family ( Lrporidtr i, the common gray rabbit
{Lep-^ns cuniculus) is the only representative now inhabiting
this region. It is very prolific, and is destined to propagate
its species long after some of the animals mentioned shall
have become extinct.
Bats and moles — the former belonging to the order of
animals (r/ii'/-()^//^-i/ 1, the latter tu {he order i,Iiiiiictirori) —
are still very numerous. Both are carnivorous (iiiisccticn-
roK.v), and during hibernation are semi-torpid.
CLASS OF AVES, OR CIHDS.
In the following list of birds indigenous to these countries
the old system of groups, or orders, is used rather than the
new classification of birds adopted provisionally by the
Smithsonian Institute at Washington. The former, as it
contains fewer and less difficult technical terms, will, it is
believed, be more readily understood by the general reader.
The chief characteristics of all the birds belonging to each
order are given first, and appended thereto are the names of
such birds of the order as are indigenous to this region.
R,\PTORES, OR BIRDS OF PREY.
These are generally of large size and stout form; bills
hooked and very strong; claws sharp and curved; wings
extensive and muscles powerful ; females larger than males ;
li%'e in pairs and choose their mates for life (?). Under this
order and belonging to the hawk family (Falconidce), are
the sparrow-hawk {Tinuuneulus alamlarius); swallow-tailed
hawk {Nnur/cru-t furcatiu); hen-harrier (Circus cyaiteui);
go8-hawk {Falro palamhariu^) ; sharp skinned hawk, red-
tailed hawk {Buieo borealis); red-shouldered hawk, pigeon-
hawk {Falco columbarum) ; white-headed ("bald") eagle
(_Haliehis leucocephalui) ; ring-tailed, or golden eagle (Aquila
chryceeios).
To the owl family (Strigidoc) belong the great horned-owl
(Bubo Virffininnus); snowy owl (Strtx nisa); barred owl
(Syniium nebidomm, or "hoot owl"); American barn or
screech-owl (Stn'x flumiiKe); spotted owl, marsh owl, Kenni-
cott's (?) owl.
Of the Vulture family (^Vtdturidw), the only representa-
tive is the turkey-buzzard (Cathartes aura).
BASORES, OR .SCRATCHING BIRDS.
Binls of this order are characterized by their stout bodies,
strong legs and feet, and their general adaptation to living
on the ground. It includes the wild-turkey (Mclengris
gallopavo), prairie hen ( Tetrao citpldo), ruffled grouse, or
" partridge" (Buiiasa umbd/u-i), quail (Ortyx Virylnianus),
turtle-dove (Turlur aurilus), wild or passenger pigeon (Edo-
pides mit/raloria).
ORAI.I.ATORS, OR \VAlJr.V(i BIRDS.
They have long necks, long billi, very long and slender
legs, and slender bodies. Their general form is well adai)ted
to wading. This order includes the plover { Cliaradrlu><'^,
common snipe {Sruhpax (/allina'ju), American woodcock
(Philohela minor), Wilson's snipe (Gallinaf/o Wihoiiii),
mud-hen (Fulira Atncrii'dna), kill-dee (Aer/laliirs voriferiis),
red-breasted snipe (Gambeita mdanoleuca), tell-tale snipe
(Gamhdta fliivipes), water-rail (Rallus aqiiaticus), aand-hill
crane t Grus Caitad/n.ti.f), blue crane ( Gru.i Aiueriraiiun),
yellow-legged and upland plover, white crane (Grus albug),
and heron (Ardea cinerca).
NATATORES, OR SWIMMINll BIRDS.
They are broad and flat; feathers compact and well oiled ;
legs wide apart, femur short, and feet webbed. Under this
order are found the common viWdgooie i Anser Ameriraini-<),
summer or wood duck (Aix sponsa), Canada goose (Bermi-
cala Canadeims), American swan (Cyynus Ainericanus),
brand goose, or "brant" (An.ser Bernida), butter-ball (Bn-
cephala albeoki), mallard (Anas Bosdia.^), blue-winged teal
(Boschas crerca), American widgeon (Mareca Amerirana),
red-head duck (Aylhaya Americ(tna), canvass-back duck it)
(Aythaya vallisneria), green-winged teal (Nellion Carolinen-
sii), pin-tail duck (Dafiln anifa), trumpeter swan ( Cyr/nim
buccinator).
lNSEssor.i-:s, or rERciiiNt; birds.
The perchers dift'er greatly among themselves; all have
three front-toes and a single hind one; feet well adapted to
perching. To this order belong the majoritv of birds, of
which we note, as belonging here, the wood-thruth ( Timlus
mudelinus), mocking-bird iMitims po/yghttu-s), blue-bird
(Slnlis Wilsonii), cat-bird (Mimiis Carolinem^i'i, robin
(Turdiis migralorlus), brown thrush, or "thrasher" (Turdu.-<
rufas), titmouse, or chickadee (Pnrui alrlrapit/u«) brown
creeper (Certhia familiaris. nuthatch iSiltn Caroliiicnii.'<),
winter wren (Troglodytes Ityemalis), cedar bird (Aiiipjdi^
cedrorum), rose-breasted gosbeak (Guiraca /udnviclwia),
chewink (Pipilo erytliroplifhalmw<), meadow-lark (Sturnd/a
magna), blue jay (cyanura rridata), wren (Troglodytes do-
62
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
me«<fca), warblers barn-swallow {HiruwJo hordeorum), bank-
swallow (Cotyle riparla), blue martin {Progne purpurea),
cardinal red bird {Cardinolls Virginianua) , field sparrow
{Spizella pusUla), indigo bird (Cyanospiza cyanea), great
northern shrike, or butcher bird, (Collurio borealis), yellow,
or thistle bird (Sylvitica ccstiva), swamp, or red-winged black-
bird {Sturntis predatorius), cow blackbird ("cow- bird")
common blackbird {Merula miisiea), king bird, or bee martin
{Tyrannw CarolinensU), rnven (Corviis corax^, common crow
{Corvua Americanus), summer red-bird {Pyravga cestiva),
scarlet tauager, Baltimore oriole {Icterus Baltimore), peewee,
or Ph(jebe bird iSatjorius fuscus), kingfisher {Ceryle alcyon),
ruby-throated humming-bird {TrocUlus colubris), yellow-
billed cuckoo {C'ucu/iis caiwrus), ruby-crowned kinglet,
golden crowned kinglet, whippoorwill, (Antrostomus vorif-
erus), g-ass sparrow, or black-throated bunting, lark, spar-
row, finch, snowbird (Juiwo hyemalls), chipping sparrow
(Spizella socialis), night hawk ( Chordeiles popetue).
SCANS0RE9, OR CLIMBING BIRDS.
Birds of this order have their toes in pairs, two in front
and two behind. Under this order and indigenous to this
county are the swift, or chimney-swallow {Cypseliis pe.las-
rjius), red-headed woodpecker (Melanerpes erythrocephalm),
golden-winged woodpecker ( Calaptes awatus), Carolina par-
oquet {Coiiunis Ciirolinensli), sap-sucker {Picus pubescens).
(class) reptilia, or reptiles.
Under this class we find represented here the order Tes-
tndinata, or turtles, and including such individuals as the
box-turtle (Cistudo virginea), suapping-turtle ( Chelyara
serpeidina), wood tortoise {Glyptemy.f iiisctdpta), and soft
shelled turtles, including niud-turtles. Of the order La-
certia (lizards), the common striped lizard {Ameira sexli-
neata) is the only representative we have found here. Un-
der the order (Ophidia), or serpents, we note the common
black-snake {Baseanion constrictor), water-snake {Serpens
aquaticus), rattle-snake {Crotalus horridus), moccasin {Toxi-
cajjhis atrapiscus), copperhead {Trigonocephalus eontoririx),
garter-snake {Eutania sirtalk), house-snake, joint-snake,
blue racer, and green snake. Of these the rattlesnake, cop-
per-head and moccasin are very poisonous, and therefore
most to be dreaded. The blowing, or hissing adder, a veno-
mous serpent, is rarely seen here.
The class Batrachia, or frogs, has as representatives, the
leopard frog (Rana halecina), bull-frog {Raim pipiens)^
wood-frog, tree-frog (" tree toad,") (Rana %/'<), marsh-frog
{Rana palmtris), common toad (Bufo vulgaris), tadpole,
salamander (Amblystoma punctatum), tritou, or water-newt
{Diemiciylus viridescens), and mud puppy {Menobranchus
lateralis).
The class o{ Pisces, or fishe-s, is represented, in the streams
of these counties, by the white, the black and the striped
bass, cat fish, pike, sturgeon, gar, goggle-eyed perch, sun-fish,
chub, white perch ("croppie"?), white and black suckers,
buffalo and a few others of minor importance.
CHAPTER Vri.
PIONEER SETTLEMENTS,
. RANDOLPH COUNTY.
I HE history of no part of the West ex-
' ceeds in interest that of the early settle-
ments in Randolph county. Civiliza-
tion in the Mississippi valley here first
found a permanent foothold. At a
time when the feeble settlements of
New England, fearful of the midnight
war-whoop of the savage, clung to the
valleys of the Connecticut and the Merriraac ; when a few
Dutch burghers at the mouth of the Hudson represented the
wealth and population of the state of New York, when
Penn's colony on the banks of the Delaware was but an ex-
periment ; at a time when no Virginian had yet threaded the
passes of the Blue Ridge, and all beyond was an undiscov-
ered country, unpenetrated by a single English pioneer, a
few Jesuit priests and French traders in fur, a thousand
miles within the interior of the continent, a trackless wilder-
"hess stretching north, south, east and wttt, founded the old
town of Kaskaskia. Other French settlements sprang up
between Detroit and New Orleans ; and France, to cement
her growing power in the New World, within twenty miles
of Kaskaskia and still on the soil of Randolph county, began
the construction of a fort which at ote time was considered
the strongest on the continent.
From this citadel Illinois was ruled. Soldiers marched
from it to fight the English in Pennsylvania and in Canada.
Its gates, which might have withstood long continued assaults,
were opened peacefully by the stroke of a pen in the Old
World, one day in the ytar 1763, and the French flag was
lowered before the standard of Great Britain. But a few
years passed before another invading army trod the soil of
the county. This time a band of Virginia riflemen suddenly
appeared at Kaskaskia, and wrested Fort Gage from the
Briti-sh commandant. On the capture of this post was
based the claim of the colonies to the Mississippi as their
western boundary. After the Revolution, a flood of immi-
grants poured in from the country east of the Alleghenies.
Kaskaskia became the capital of the territory, and then
of the state. The most distinguished men of the West here
began their public career. Her merchants controlled trade
far and near, and sold goods to the shop keepers of St. Louis.
The town, now in a state of ruin and decay, is the oldest
settlement in the Mississippi valley.
THE FRENCH SETTLEMENTS.
The date of the founding of Kaskaskia was probably the
year 1700. For a few years it was little more than a
mission station. The Indian trade gradually attracted set-
tlers from Canada and France, and the village began to
wear the appearance of business as well as of religion. A
grant of land for Commons was made on the fourteenth of
August, 1743, by M. Vandrieul, governor, and M. Salmon,
commissary ordonnateur of the province of Louisiana.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNIIES, ILLINOIS.
03
Grants in the Common Field were made to the inhabitants
in severalty. Among the French names which appear on
the records as belonging to the owners of land in the village
and Common Field of Kaskaskia in the last century, are
those of Archambeau, Aubuchon, Allary, Autire, Bienve-
nue, Blouin, Beauvais, Buchet, Bougie, Buquett, Buyatt,
Brazeau, Barrutelle, Beauvet, Chaniberlaud, Charleville,
Cottineau, Chinie, Curvois, Cerre, Danie, Doza, Delisle,
Derousse, Duprain, Dubord, Duplace, Devigne, Dugay,
Danis, Degagne, Faggot, Godebert, Gendron, Gomes, Gau-
delert, Janis, Joyouse, Lamall, Leplant, Laderoute, La-
source, Lafatigue, Lafout, Lavassieur, Lachapelle, Lachance,
Lasond, Louval, Lachange, Langlois, Menard, Morin, Moreau,
Mieure, Montrieul, Philip, Peltier, Page, Picard, Provost,
Prieur, Place, Rochblave, Ravel, Racine, Richard, Seguin,
St. Pierre, Tiirpiu, Turojurt, Torrengeau, and Valle.
Kaskaskia is said to have become an incorporated town
in 1725. By that time a considerable immigration had set
in from France. Fifteen or twenty years later considerable
attention was j)aid to agriculture and commerce, and cargoes
of pork, flour, bacon, tallow, hides, and leather were floated
down the Mississippi to New Orleans, and thence to France.
On the cession of Illinois to England many of the French
families removed to the west bank of the Mississippi, some
to St. Louis, and some to Ste. Genevieve, thinking that
they there could still find a home under the French govern-
ment. In 1766, the year after this exodus, Kaskaskia is
described as containing sixt3--five families, " besides mer-
chants, other casual people, and slaves." The richest in-
habitant at that time, Jean Baptiste St Gerome Beauvais,
kept eighty slaves, and furnished " to the king's magazine"
eighty-six thousand pounds of flour,, which was only part of
his harvest for one year.
The year 1722 is given as the date of the fuuiuling of
Prairie du Rocher. The grant of Commons was made on
the seventh of May, 1743, the same year as that of Kaskas-
kia. The village never grew to any great size, and no event
of importance seems to have marked its history. A mill
was built by the Jesuits. In 1766 it was a settlement of
twenty-two families, and the inhabitants were said to be
very industrious, laising a great deal of corn and every kind
of stock. Like Kaskaskia, it suffered by the removal of
some of the Fi-enL-h families to the west of the Mi.'jsissippi
on the British occupation of the country.
The village of Fort Chartres had an existence correspond-
ing with the occupation of the fort of that name by the
French garrison. It sprang up, outside the gates, on the
building of the fort, and when the garrison marched to St.
Louis, and the British took possession, the French families
abandoned their houses, and transported themselves to (as
they supposed) the French side of the river. The church
here was the mother of the churches at Prairie du Rocher
and St. Phillips, the latter on their establishment being mere-
ly chapels conne'bted with the church of St. Anne at Fort
Chartres.
The French settlers were gregarious in their habits, fond
of social intercourse and dwelling together, and averse to
pushing their improvements to any considerable distance
from the outskirts of their villages. The "improvement
rights," granted under the law of 1791, show the limits
within which tract-s of land were placed under cultivation
On the west side of the Kaskaskia river, six or eight miles
above the village of Ka^ikaskia, improvements were made
and crops raised, at an early day, by .Jean Baptiste Gendron
(claim 1007), Antoine Beauvais (claim 283), Louis Long-
valle (claim 2007), and Antoine Buyatt (claim 2'Jo).
Claim 999, farther up the Kaskaskia, containing three
thousand eight hundred and eighty arpents, was granted
to Nicholas Cailotte Lachance, and his rival sons, Nicholas,
Baptiste, Antoine, Gabriel, Fran(;ois, Joseph, Miclwul,
Charles, and Benjamin, on account of improvements which
they had here made. This seems to have been the farthest
up the Kaskaskia river that the old French settlers ven-
tured. Where Diamond Cross now is, 'on the hills, about
three miles east of Kaskaskia river, on Gravel run," as it is
described, the four hundred acres contained in claim 241
were granted to Jean Baptiste Beauvais, covering land
which he there had in cultivation. Claim 292, a couple of
miles from Chester on the hill road to Kaskaskia, com-
prised the improvement right of Antoine Bienvenue. On
Mary's river, at the mouth of Gravd creek, where claim
291 has been surveyed, Joseph Colchout settled and made
some attempt toward bringing a farm under cultivation.
The statement has been made that Kaskaskia, in the year
1763, contained two or three thousand inhabitants. If this
b3 true, its subsequent decline must have been very rapid.
The French settlements in Illinois doubtless reached the
period of their greatest prosperity about 1763. The news
of the cession of the ountry to England drove the wealthy
and influential families across the Mississippi, and the
French colonies on the west of the river were thenceforth
larger and more prosper ^us than those in Illinois. In the
year 1800 there were seven hundred French within the
present boundaries of Randolph county. Of these the
village of Kaskaskia had five hundred and Prairie du
Rocher two hundred. In all the rest of Illinois there were
about six hundred French inhabitants, of whom the greater
number, four hundred, lived at Cahokia. There were besides
a number of French slaves in Prairie du Rocher, the de-
scendants of the five hundred brought from the island of San
D.jmingo by Philip Francois Renault in 1719.
CHARACTER OF THE EARLY FRENCH SETTLERS.
The early French settlers were ambitious for neither
wealth nor knowledge They were content to take the world
as it came, and endeavored to extract all the enjoyment
possible out of life, and to avoid its cares. All were devout
Catholics and punctual in the discharge of their religious
duties. They were eminently a social people. Instead of
settling on separate farms, like the American pioneers, they
clustered together in villages, so that they might have the
greatest opportunity for social intercourse. Their physical
wants were easily supi)lied, and the great part of their lives
they gave to pleasure. The young people delighted in the
dance, and this cheerful and innocent diversion was actually
carried on under the eye of the priest and the aged
64
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
patriarchs of the village, who freely sympathized with the
spirit of the gay assemblage. The excitement and anima-
tion of a French ball room were surprising. Old and
young, rich and poor, met together in good feeling and with
hearts overflowing with merriment. It was the usual cus-
tom to dance the old year out and the new year in. The
numerous festivals of the Catholic church strongly tended
to awaken and develop the social and friendly intercourse
of the people. On the morning of the Sabbath they were
always found at church, but the rest of the day was devoted
to social intercourse and diverting pastimes. Husbands and
wives were kind and affectionate, and the children obedient.
Hospitaliiy and generosity were common virtues.
Their costume was peculiar. Blue was their favorite
color, and handkerchiefs of that hue usually adorned the
heads of both men and women. No genuine Frenchman in
early times ever wore a hat, cap, or coat. The capot, made
of white blanket, was the universal dress for the laboring
class of people. In summer the men wore a coarse blue
stuff, and in the winter, cloth or buckskin. The women
wore deer-skin moccasins, and the men a coarser and
stronger article, made of thicker leather. With that natural
aptitude for dress, which seems to belong peculiarly to their
nation, the women caught up the fa.?hions of New Orleans
and Paris with great avidity, and adopted them, as far as
they were able. Notwithstanding their long separation by
an immense wilderness from civilized society, they still re-
tained all the suavity and politeness of their race. It is
said that the roughest hunter, or boatman, among them
could at any time appear in a ball-room, or other polite, or
gay assembly, with the courage and behaviour of a well-bred
gentleman. The women were remarkable for the spright-
liness of their conversation, and the ease and elegance of
their manners.
They seldom violated the penal law. Reynolds remarks
that very few, or none, of the Creoles were ever indicted for
the crimes the law books style malum in se, and that the
records of the courts in Illinois do not exhibit an indictment
against a Creole Frenchman for any crime higher than keep-
ing his grocery open on a prohibited day of the week. Edu-
cation, however, was neglected. The priests and old ladies
taught the children, but there was no regular system of
schools. While not superstitious, the ancient French in
Illinois believed that some of the negroes of the West India
islands possessed supernatural power to do any one harm,
and that they could also look into futurity. In Cahokia,
about the year 1790, this superstition got the upper hand of
reason, and several poor African slaves suffered for this
offence. One, called Moreau, was hung on a tree not far
from the village, and another, named Emanuel, was shot.
They were on friendly terms with the Indians. The ease
with which the French could adapt themselves to circum-
stances, made them at home by the camp fires of the savage.
When with the Indians they adopted their modes of life,
dressed like them, and frequently took as wives the dusky
squaws. In the wars between hostile tribes the French suf-
fered as did their Indian allies. In the parish register of
Kaskaskia are recorded solema services for the dead — " Slain
upon the Mississippi by the Chickasaws ; " "Killed by the
savages on the Wabash ; " and for others who fell victims
to Indian atrocities within a few miles of the village.
The horses and cattle of the French, for want of proper
care and food fur many generations, had degenerated in size,
but had acquired additional vigor and toughness, so that a
French pony was a proverb for endurance. These ponies
were sometimes attached to the cart or plow singly, and
sometimes two were hitched together, one before the other.
The carts were made entirely of wood, and held about double
the contents of a common large wheelbarrow. Oxen were
yoked by the horns instead of the neck, anil in this way were
made to draw the plow and cart. No reins were used in
driving. The driver's whip, which had a handle about two
feet long, and a lash two yards in length, controlled the horse
eflectually.
AMERICAN IMMIGR.\TION.
The favorable report of the Illinois country, carried back
by the soldiers of Col. Clark, occasioned the first American
immigration in 1780. Descending the Ohio, and stemming
the ctlrrent of the Mississippi, a colony of pioneer settlers
reached Kaskaskia, among the members of which were John
Montgomery, John Doyle, David Pagon, Joseph Anderson,
John Dodge, Minard Asturgus, James Curry, and Levi Teel.
The most of these had been soldiers under Black Shortly
after their arrival, they made settlements east of the Kas-
kaskia river.
John Blontgomery improved a tract of land four or five
miles northeast of Kaskaskia. The old Vincennes road
afterward ran past his place. Montgomery built a small
water-mill here, which was in use for some years. The
place in which he settled is included in claim 1993, contain-
ing four hundred acres, granted to him on account of his
improvement. This place was one of the best known in the
early history of the county, and after Montgomery, Stacy
McDonough resided here for lialf a century.
John Doyle was one of Clark's soldiers. He resided in
and near Kaskaskia. He was a man of some education,
and taught one of the earliest English. schools in the country.
He was acquainted with both the French and English lan-
guages, and was often employed as an interpreter. He was
unambitious, made no endeavor to obtain either wealth or
position, but was respected as an honest man.
David Pagon, had served in Clark's expedition to Illinois,
as had also James Curry and Levi Teel. Claim 2008, on
Nine Mile creek, two miles north of Ellis Grove and five
miles from Kaskaskia, includes the place on which Pagon
settled. Teel improved a farm east of the Kaskaskia river,
a little more than a mile above the mouth of Nine Mile
creek. Pagon built a house in a strong and substantial manner
so as to withstand an Indian attack. While the house was
yet unoccupied, Teel and Curry, having been hunting in the
neighborhood, took possession of it to spend the night there.
The door had three bars across it, and a hole cut in at the
bottom for the cat to go in and out. Toward evening the
house was besieged by sixteen Piankashaw Indians Curry
first discovered their presence, and told Teel to get ready
his gun for defence. Teel was inclined to open the door and
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
65
surrender, but Curry would not listen to this proposal. As
Teel stood bj' the door, with his foot near the cat hole, an
Indian from the outside thrust a spear through his fo >t, and
fastened him to the floor. He instinctively seized the spear
to pull it out, when the Indians pierced his hand with other
spears, thus nailing him to the floor, and reuderiiig him use-
less. Curry was a man of extraordinary bravery, and cool
and prepared in any emergency. Fearful that Teel would
open the door and let in the enem}-, he sprang up into the
loft, and through a small hole in the roof thrust out his gun
and fired at the Indians. Three shots, fired in rapid succes-
sion, killed as many warriors. Descending to the lower
floor he found Teel transfixed by his hands and feet in the
manner described. Going back again to the loft, he tum-
bled the whole roof, weight poles and all, down on the In-
dians, who had huddled clo^e to the side of the house to
avoid his shots. The roofs in those days were put en with-
out nails, but had weight poles to hold them fast. Sometimes
large round timbers were laid on the tups of the houses on
purpose to roll off' on assailants below. The roof falling,
killed the chief, and disabled some others of the Indians,
and as day was breaking, the rest of the band ran off, leav-
ing Curry the victor He took both guns, and walked along
by the side of Teel, who was almost exhausted by loss of
blood, toward Kaskaskia. Teel gave out before reaching
the village, when Curry hastened on for help, and at last
succeeded in getting him to the town where he recovered
from his wounds.
Curry was a large, strong and active man, fearless of
danger, at the same time bold and discreet, and while serv-
ing under Clark was cliosen among the first to accomplish
any especially desperate and hazardous service. While out
hunting with Joseph Anderson, it is supposed that he was
killed by the Indians. He left their camp one morning,
and did not return, nor was ever heard of afterward Jo-
seph Anderson settled on Nine Mile creek, and lived tbere
till his death. His improvement right of four hundred
acres, (claim 308) lies on both sides of the creek, just above
Little Nine Mile, and connects with that of Pag.in.
John Dodge and Jlinard Asturgus improved land on the
hills opposite Kaskaskia The donations of land which
they received, four hundred acres each, claims 996 and
1001, extend within a mile of the village, and within half a
mile of Fort Gage. Djdge had been one of Clark's soldiers.
Settlements were also made in the year 1780 by John
Hilterbrand, Henry and Elijah Smith, David Hix, and
Haydon Wells, on the east side of the Ka.skaskia river, above
the mouth of Nine Mile creek. Some of these had served
with Clark. Elijah Smith settled on the Kaskaskia, where
Cox's ferry now is Claim 1044, c ivering the customary
four hundred acres of land, was given to his heirs in right
of his having made this improvement This is the farthest
grant of land that was mr.ie up the Kaskaskia, and for a
long while Smith's little farm was the limit of the settlement.
Hix's improvement was on claim 1992, immediately south
of Smith. Thomas Hughs came from the western part of
Pennsylvania in the year 1783. During that year he built
a cabin, and placed some land under cultivation, on Nine
Mile creek. Claim 319, comprising four hundred acres of
land, granted to his heirs, covers this improvement. The
next year he went back to Pennsylvania for his family.
Coming down the Ohio river near Fort M issacre, the boat
was attacked by the Indians, and Hughs and an iufant child
in the arms of its mother were killed. The child was shot
through the head, and its brains were spattered over the
mother's breast. The mother was wounded severely in the
shoulder. Some friends were accompanying the family to
Illinois, and of these two were killed. The rest of the party
escaped and returned without attempting to continue their
journey.
Indian hostilities broke up the settlements east of Kaskas-
kia, and interfered with the immigration to Illinois. The
American pioneers found refuge in Kaskaskia. Israel
Dodge, Ichabod and George Camp, John C )ok, Jacob Judy,
William Musick, James Piggott, and Robert Seybold had
all become residents of the village before 1783. Israel Dodge
was the father of Henry Dodge, afterward United States
Senator from Wisconsin. In 1790 ho removed across the
river to Upper Louisiana. James Piggott settled at Pig-
gott's fort in the present county of Monroe. He had served
in the war under Clark, as had also Seybold. Jacob Judy
built Judy's mill in Monroe county.
The Indiau troubles lasted till about the year 179.5. Ic
1796 and 1797 several families re- established themselves
east of Kaskaskia river, and remained there permanently .
Ichabod and George Camp made improvements west of the
Kaskaskia river, and Camp creek bears their name. They
afterward removed to St. Louis, and lived at Camp Spring,
then west of the city, now include! within its limits. Mrs.
Hughs, whose husband, Thomas Hughs, was killed by the
Indians on the Ohio, as has been narrated, afterward
married James Pillars. In the year 1795 the family, con-
sisting of Mr. and Mrs. Pillars, two sons, John and Richard
Pillars, and James Hughs, the surviving son of Thomas
Hughs, came to Illinois. They settled on the farm east of
the Kaskaskia, long known as the "old Hughs place." Pil-
lars lived here several years, and was a quiet and industrious
citizen. James Hughs returned to Kentucky, there married ,
and came again to Illinois in the year 1800. He was a man
of great energy and sound judgment. He was in the United
States ranging service during the war of 1812-14. John
Reynolds, then a boy. afterward Governor of the State, re-
sided in the same neighborhood from 1800 to 1807. He
says: "Before any common school was established in the
neighborhood where my father resided, I mounted a horse
nearly every evening during a winter, and rode about a mile
and a half to the residence of James Hughs, to study under
his guidance the arithmetic. Mr. Hughs, although he was
raised in the backwoods, and was filled with fun and frolic,
was a man of strong mind and benevolent heart. He took
great pleasure in teaching me the arithmetic, and during
this winter I studied the most important principles contained
in the treatise."
Stace McDonough, in the year 1797, settled on the old
place which John Montgomery first improved, in claim
1993, a couple of miles northeast of Ellis's Grove. He had
66
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
experienced many adventures in his campaigns against the
Indians, and became a leader in the frontier community.
He was born, of Scotch ancestry, in New Jersey, in the year
1770. His parents dying when he was an infant, he was
bound out, but he and his master not getting along well
together, he ran away, and coming West, found his way to
Kentucky. He took part with the Kentucky troops in their
expeditions against the Indians north of the Ohio, and in
Col. Clark's campaign in the year 1786, though then only
sixteen years of age, distinguished himself by his brilliant
services He was strong, athletic, and courageous, and a
faithful and ardent soldier. He was an excellent marksman,
and frequently acted as a spy. He entered into the service
of the United States government in 1790, and in Gen. Har-
mer's campaign of that year was given the command of a
train of pack horses. The next year he served under Gen-
eral St. Clair, and was placed in charge of the convoys of
provisions for the army. He was in the disastrous defeat of
St. Clair on the fourth of November, 1791, escaping on foot
from the field of battle, and saving the life of an officer whom
he found wounded and exhausted on the ground, and whom
he assisted into camp. He commanded one of the govern-
ment boats on the Ohio in 1793. He was an excellent pilot,
and thoroughly understood the navigation of the river.
Near the mouth of the Kentucky river, an Indian standing
on the shore shot him in the shoulder. A white man with
the Indians, called out in English, "to throw that man over-
board, he will die in a short time." He never recovered
fully from the wound, but was well enough to take part in
Wayne's campaign against the Indians a year or two later.
He left the service at the close of the war in 179.5, and
married in Louisville, Kentucky. After coming to Illinois
he improved a fine farm. He was extremely fond of the
rifle, and spent a good deal of his time in hunting. In the
war of 1812-14 he was captain of a ranging company, and
did good service in protecting the frontiers from Indian
depredations. ' He was also, during this war, contractor for
carrying the mails from St. Louis to Shawneetown. This
mail route was then very important, on account of its being
the only one by which correspondence was kept up between
Illinois and Washington. The country between the Kaskas-
kia and the Ohio rivers was a wilderness, and the Indians
hostile, but he carried the mails with punctuality. Like
many of the early pioneers he had strong natural abilities,
but no education. He was honorable and upright in his re-
lations with his neighbors. He died on the farm on which
he settled on coming to the county, after having lived on it
nearly fifty years.
Toward the close of the Indian wars the fettleraents in
Illinois began to extend. The New Design settlement, in
the present county of Monroe, was at that period by far the
largest American colony in Illinois, and soon after 1795, it
began to extend southward into Randolph county. In the
year last mentioned the town of Washington was laid off on
the west bank of the Kaskaskia river, not far south of the
northern boundary of the county. Its site was the high
bluff of the river, overlooking to the west the Horse prairie.
Johnson J. Whiteside was one of its projectors. The
Whitesides had emigrated from Kentucky to the New
Design settlement in 1793. Washington came to be known
as Horse Prairie town. Its inhabitants cultivated large
fields of grain, and raised stock. Among the residents,
of this place were William Going and his son, who
bore the same name. They had come from Kentucky
in 1794, and erected a station a short distance south-
west of the present town of Waterloo. Both were
blacksmiths. The old gentleman was a quiet and orderly
citizen, except when excited with taffia. At courts and other
gatherings he had bells to sell, and often put a cord through
the staples of a dozen bells of all sizes and then tied them
around his waist. His head was adorned with a fox-skin
cap, the tail suspended behind, and his other dress was of the
same backwoods character. Thus equipped, he danced in the
crowd, making of course, a terrific noise. He was not a
large man, but strong and active. He compelled Judge
Simms, one of the United States judges for the North-
western territory, while he was holding court at Cahokia, to
undergo this bell-dance at which his honor grew very im-
patient. He was noted for performing other wild freaks.
He died at the Horse Prairie town, and was buried in the
old graveyard north of the town.
William Going, the son, was a man of different qualities-
He had received but a limited education and could hardly
read and write, but possessed strong natural abilities which,
had he made use of them, might have fitted him for almost
any position. He was brave and courageous, and impressed
his associates as a man of decision and firmness. His im-
pulses were naturally on the side of honesty and integrity,
but bad associations, and evil habits, gradually grew on him,
and often the public was forced to think strange of his con-
duct. At horse races, shooting matches, and at the card
table, bis was the governing spirit. Besides being a black-
smith, he was a good gunsmith. He had no taste for steady
and hard labor. He worked in his shop when it pleased
him, and with the object of only earning enough to support
himself and family. For wealth he cared nothing. He had
steady nerves and excellent eyesight, and none excelled him
in repairing, or shooting, a gun. Reynolds relates that he
at one time, at ninety yards, with a rest, put four rifie balls
into the same hole, near the centre of the target. The fifth
ball also touched the hole. From the Horse Prairie town
he moved to a place on the Kaskaskia river, in St. Clair
county, below the present town of Fayette, and from there
to Arkansas, where he died in 1830.
John Pulliam, from 1799 to 1802, was a resident of the
Horse Prairie town. He was born in Botetourt county,
Virginia ; after the Revolutionary war he removed to Ken-
tucky, and in 1796 came to the New Design settlement.
In 1797 he removed to the neighborhood of Florissant, west
of St. Louis, and returned to Illinois two years later to settle
in Horse Prairie town, near which he cultivated a farm. In
1802 he began improving a farm on Prairie du Long creek,
near the mouth of Richland creek, in what is now Monroe
county. He died on the Kaskaskia river, near the present
town of Fayette, in 1813. He was a man of sound mind,
and considerable energy and activity. From him sprang
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
67
oue of the most numerous piimeer faniiliea in Illinois.
Johu Grosvenor, a stuue masou and farmer, and a native of
Connecticut, lived iu the Hjr^e Prairie town for some
years after 1793. He had a large farm adjoining the town
which he cultivated with more industry than wa^ usually
displayed in those days, raising considerable amouuts of
produce As the country in the Horse Prairie improved, the
village declined, and soon became extinct.
Among the pioneer settlers on I£orse creek was Henry
Levens. He emigrated from the western part of Pennsyl-
vania. He was a large, stout mau, a stranger to fear, and
well calculated to brave the dangers and difficultiesof a new
settlement. He was without much education, but possessed
decisive and energetic qualities of mind which made him a
conspicuous personage among the early pioneers. He came
to Illinois iu 1797. Coming down the Ohio river, he landed
at Fort Massacre with two wagons and teams, one of which
was an ox team. In one of the wagons he placed a large
skiff to be used as a wagon body on land and a ferry boat
in crossing the large creeks encount-red on the journey.
The party was twenty five days in coming from the Ohio to
Kaskaskia. He settled on Horse creek, about two miles
above its mouth, and three miles north of the present town
of Evansville. He here obtained a donation of four hun-
dred acres of land (claim 2607) by reason of his improve-
ment. In the year 1800 he built a saw and grist mill
on Horse creek, near his residence, which he carried on with
much energy and industry, and with great advantage to the
other settlers. At the time this was built it was the only
saw mill in the country. The lumber for nearly all the flat
boats built in early times in Illinois, was .sawed at this mill.
Levens was a man of great hospitality, and his house was
the usual place at which dancing and convivial parties as-
sembled. He raised a large family, and both his sons and
daughters were inclined to gayety and sociability, and
indulged freely in the pleasures of the ball-room, and other
amusements of a similar character. The most of his sons^
and some of the daughters, played on the violin. The
family was the centre of attraction, and many happy days,
and particularly nights, of innocent amusement and recrea-
tion were enjoyed in pioneer times at Levens' hospitable
dwelling on Horse creek. The sons were active, resolute
men, excellent hunte^s and marksmen, and frequently
carried off the prizes at the shooting matches which formed
a common amusement for the neighborhood. They also
delighted in foot racing, wrestling, and jumping, and an
early chronicler remarks that they " were not bashful in a
fight, in which they indulged at times to the great discom-
fiture of their adversaries." The gun, race-horse, and violin
were articles of greatest admiration in the family. Although
fond of amusement, the Levens' family became more wealthy
than the most of their neighbors. Their stock was raised,
winter and summer, without much labor, and the mill and
farm yielded considerable income. The peltries, resulting
from the hunting expeditious of the sons, added something.
At one time the family consisted of four, or five grown
unmarried sons and two daughters. The progress of the
settlements at last crowded the old man too much, and in
1818 he sold out his possessions on Horse creek, and moved
to the frontiers of Missouri where he died at an advanced
age.
The Horse prairie, lying between the K;nkaskia river
and Horse creek, obtained its name, as did also the creek,
from the fact that herds of wild horses were f lund in the
prairie, aud along the creek, iu early times. These horses
had escaped from the French villages. In the upper end of
the prairie, at the close of the list century, a settlement,
composed of Samuel aud Winder Kinney, Chance Ratcliff,
Robert McMalian, Jarrot Brickey, the Gibbons, Teter, and
some other families, was formed in the upper end of the
prairie. In a few years the most of the families moved
away. McMahan was born in Virginia, removed to Ken-
tucky, and in 1793 came to the New Design settlement. In
1795, in the present Monroe county, three miles northeast
of New Design station, his wife and four children were
killed by the Indians. Oa coming to the Horse prairie, he
settled on Ralls' ridge where now runs the road from Red
Bud to the Kaskaskia. He was justice of the peace, and
oue of the judges of the old court of common pleas. He
removed to St. Clair county near Lsbanon, and then to the
neighborhood of Troy, in Madison county, where he died in
the year 1822. Jarrot Brickey was a native of Virginia^
and came to Illinois from Kentucky. He lived in the Horse
prairie for nearly half a century. He was iu the ranging
service during ths war of 1612-14, as was also his son,
Preston B. Brickey, whose farm was half a mile north of
the present town of Red Bud.
Kaskaskia by this time had become the residence of seve-
ral Americans. John E Igar, who came to the village iu
1784, had assumed a prominent position iu the community.
William Morrison reached the place in 1790, and began an
extensive mercantile business. The earliest practicing law-
yer in Illinois, John Rice Jones, had settled in the town the
last named year, and in 1798 Dr. George Fisher began the
practice of medicine.
THE AMERICAN POPULATION IN 1800.
According to the estimate of Reynolds, the American
population in Illinois in the year 1800 amounted to eight
hundred souls. The New Design and American Bottom
settlements, in the present county of Monroe, contained six
hundred inhabitants, and there were other scattering settle-
ments in that county. Only about one hundred Americans
lived in Randolph county. Of these, six or eight families
lived in Kaskaskia. The settlement east of the Kaskaskia
River contained seven families, and the Horse Prairie colony
was still less in number.
SUBSEQUENT SETTLEMENTS.
On the openingof the present century the arrivals became
more numerous, and the number of American inhabitants of
the county rapidly increased. The immigrants were mostly
from the western and southern states, and the Ohio river was
the main channel by which the pioneers reached the country.
Fort Massacre was a usual point for leaving the Ohio and
beginning the journey overland. In very early times the
I French had opened a road from Fort Massacre to Kaskai>-
6**
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
kia, marking the miles on the trees. The figures were cut
in with an iron instrument and painted red. This road
made a great curve to the north to avoid the swamps and
rough country on the sources -of Cache river, and to
take advantage of the prairie as much as possible. A road
also ran from Fort Massacre to Cape Girardeau, then in the
Spanish country. There were two celebrated crossing places
on the Ohio, Lusk's Ferry and Miles' Ferry. The former
was opposite the present town of Golconda, and the latter
six or seven miles farther up the river. From Lusk's and
Miles' ferries a road had been established to Kaskatkia.
This road was first opened by Nathaniel Hull, one of the
pioneers of Monroe county. Roads were afterwards cut
leading from Shawneetown to Vincennes and Kaskaskia.
The scanty American population of the county received a
notable addition in 1800 in the family of Robert Reynolds.
His son, John Reynolds, then a boy of twelve, afterward
became governor of the state. Robert Reynolds was born
in Ireland, and emigrated to the United States in 1785. In
Montgomery county, Pennsylvania, John Reynolds was
born in 1788. The family in the fall of that year removed
to East Tennessee. In February, 1800, with eight horses
and two wagons, the family left Tennes-ee for the Spanish
country west of the Mississippi. Upper Louisiana, now
Missouri, was then popularly known as the Spanish country.
The Spanish authorities encouraged by liberal land grants
the immigration of Americans. Several members of the
Murphy family had gone from the Reynolds neighborhood
in East Tennessee, and had settled on the St. Francois river,
southwest of St. Geuevievs, and Robert Reynolds had de-
cided to settle there. The Ohio was crossed at Lusk's ferry,
and they first set foot on Illinois soil where now stands the
town of Golconda, in Pope county. The west side of the
Ohio was then called the Inilian country. Governor Rey-
nolds relates that he asked Mr. Lusk how far it was to the
ne.\t town, and that the proprietor of the ferry laughed and
said, "One hundred and ten miles to Kaskaskia, the first
settlement on the route." Big Muddy river was found to
be full and swimming, and after wailing on the banks two
weeks for the stream to fall, a raft was constructed, with
two days' labor, and the family and their efi'ects were ferried
over. Four creeks were rafted between the Ohio and Kas-
kaskia, and the journey required four weeks. Governor
Reynolds has recorded his impressions as he reached the
bluff's east of Kaskaskia, and surveyed the prospect. It was
spring, and the landscape was clothed in beauty. The
prairie between the Kaskaskia and Mississippi rivers was
covered with grazing horses and cattle. The Mississippi
itself could be seen through the forest of cottonwood trees
skirting its shores, and the ancient village of Kaskaskia
presented its singular and antique construction to his sight
The ancient cathedral stood a venerable edifice in the heart
of the village, with its lofty steeple and large bell — the first
church bell he had ever seen. Around the village were
numerous camps and lodges of the Kaskaskia Indians,
who still retained much of their original savage inde-
pendence.
Many of the young warriors decorated themselves with
paints, and tied feathers in their hair, and sometimes at-
tached to their heads the horns of animals.
After securing some provisions, and provender for the
horses from General Edgar's mill, near which they had en-
camped, preparations were made to cross the Mississippi,
when R )bert Morrison, John Rice Jones, Pierre Menard
and John Edgar came up, and proposed that, instead of
going to the Spanish country, the Jleynolds family should
remain for a time at Kaskaskia, and look around for a per-
manent residence in the vicinity. After spending some time
in the exploration of the eastern side of the Mississippi,
Robert Reynolds re-affirmed his decision to settle west of the
river, and applied to the Spanish commandant at St. Gene-
vieve for a permit, but found that a pledge was required
that he should raise his children in the faith of the Roman
Catholic church. To this he refused to agree, and he re-
mained in Illinois. The family lived in Kaskaskia some
months, raised a crop of corn in the common field, and then
settled east of Kaskaskia. Governor Reynolds says: "Our
residence was within about two miles and a half of Kaskas-
kia, and we made mathematically the seventh family of the
colony. We made our habitation east of the Kaskaskia
river, in the forest amongst the high grass, and the wolves
and wild animals were howling and prowling about us all
night. About the year 1805, a small school was formed in
the settlement where my father resided I was a scholar at this
humble institution during part of the winters and the wet
days we could not work on the farm, for one or two years,
while we remained in the settlement. There were some books
scattered about the country, but they were not plenty. Al-
though my father was a reading man, and possessed a s-trong
mind, yet, as far as I recollect, he brought to the country
with him no books i xcept the Bible. John Fulton, who
.settled in the vicinity, brought with him Rollin's Ancient
History. My father borrowed it, and I read it day and
night at the times I spared from labor." In 1803, Robert
Reynolds, with Pierre Menard and Robert Morrison, repre-
sented Randolph county in the Legislature of the Indiana
territory. In 1807, he moved to the Goshen settlement, four
miles southwest of Edwardsville.
In 1801 John Braird and family settled four miles north-
east of Kaskaskia He was born in Virginia and raised in
the country adjoining the New river. He emigrated from
Virginia to Tennessee in the year 1787, and there married a
relative of Robert Reynolds. He is described as a brave,
energetic, decisive man, and while living in Knox county,
Tennessee, was always elected captain of the companies
raised to pursue the Indians when any depredation was com-
mitted, which was not unfrequent. In April, 1793, he led
one hundred and twenty five men from Knoxville to Nash-
ville, and killed a few Creek Indians. The next mouth, in
command of fifty men, he pursued a band of Indians who
had killed two citizens near Clinch river. In defiance of
the orders of the United States government he crossed the
Tennessee into the Cherokee country, and there killed several
of the savages The government ordered him to be tried by
court martial, but the people of Tennessee sustained him in
his course. On the formation of the state government of
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
69
Tennessee he was elected to the legislature from Knox
county. He died in Illinois in 1>*09. One of his sons,
Joseph A. Beaird, became a prominent citizen of Monroe
county, which he represented in the state senate for several
terms. Another, William A Beaird, was sheriff of St. Clair
county from 1818 to 1830.
Among the additions to the settlement cast of Kaska-skia
in 1801 WHS Jo^pph Heard, who first settled on Garrison
hill, and theu improved a farm on Gravel creek, two miles
and a half north of Chester, in later years the property '>f
Joseph B. Holmes. His son, Hugh Heard, settled two
miles north of his fatiier, in the neighborhood of Diamond
Cross, and the farm on which he lived was long known as
the " Old Heard farm." After living on this farm many
years Hugh Heard removed to Wisconsin. James Heard, a
brother to Hugh, located still farther north, and made a
farm on which he lived to old age. Joseph, William and
James, were sons of the latter. With Joseph Heard came
George Franklin who improved a farm in section twenty-
two, of township six, range seven, and afterward removed to
the neighborhood of the present town of Pinckneyville in
Perry county.
In the year 180i the arrivals became more frequent and
the settlements began to expand over wider territory. John
Fulton, the same who as Governor Reynolds relates, brought
with him to Illinois RoUin's Ancient History, came from
Tennessee, and settled east of Kaskaskia, in the vicinity of
Robert Reynolds. He made a valuable addition to the com-
munity, and was active and foremost in promoting the pub
lie welfare. His sons, Thomas, David and Cyrus, lived
afterward in the same neighborhood. The two former died
these, and the last removed to Marion county- William
Roberts came from Lexington, Kentucky, also in 18'i2, and
settled east of the Kaskaskia river, in the neighborhood of
Ellis Grove, where he improved a farm. He was a man of
enterprise and shrewdness, and traded down the river, be-
coming well known al'>ng the banks of the Mississippi between
Kaskaskia and New Orleans. He died in 1822. His son,
Thomas Roberts, was nearly of age at the time of the settle-
ment of the family in the county. He settled on a farm
near his father. For many years he acted as justice of the
peace. He was a member of the c<mnty commissioners'
court from 1828 to, 1834. His death occurred in 1858.
One of his nine sons, Daniel Preston Roberts, was the last
register of the land office at Kaskaskia, receiving his appoint
ment in ls53, and coutinuing in the office till its removal to
Springfield. John and Ephraim Bilderback came in 1802
Ephraim settled eaH of the Kaskaskia. He was a man of
great industry, aud paid close attention to his farm. His
sons were William, Stuart, James, Charles, Franklin, Henry,
Ephraim, Thomas and John. William removed to the ex-
treme southern part of the county, where he entered laud as
early as 1814. Charles also settled in that part of the
county. John Bilderback, the brother of Ephraim, was in
the ranging service during the war of 1812-14. He died
without children.
Robert Tindall, of the Chester district. South Carolina, in
1802 began improving a farm five miles northeast of Chester
in section ihirty-two, of township six, range six. This was
the first settlement in that vicinity. He undertook the erec-
tion of a water mill on a small stream flowing through his
farm, but before its completion it was washed away by the
floods. He then built a horse mill near his residence which
was in operation for some years and proved a great advan-
tage to the neighborhood. On M.iry's river, about fiur
miles above its mouth, Binjainin Crane, with a family of
seven sons, whose names were Benjamin, Squire, William,
.lames, Joel, Lswis, and John, settled probably in 1802,
though by some the date is placed earlier- The Cranes were
men of decided character, and were the leading citizens in
the country adjacent to the mouth of Mary's river. On the
west side of the Kaskaskia river, near the mouth of Camp
creek, Paul Harelston made a settlement in 1802. He was
a man of considerable influence and prominence in early
times.
The vigorous and influential Irish settlement, east of the
Kaskaskia, in the neighborhood of Plum creek, from which
have sprung many of the leading citizens of the county, was
founded in 18 J2. These colonists were of Irish blood,
Presbyterians in religious faith, and came to Illinois chiefly
from the Abbeville district in South Carolina. They were
known in Randolph county as " South Carolina Irish."
They had the same energetic traits which have marked the
Scotch-Irish stock in all parts of the United States, and left
a lasting impression on the county. James Patterson was
the pioneer of this settlement. He was born in South Caro-
lina. His father had come to America from Ireland, and
had taken part as a soldier in the war of the Revolution.
He arrived in the year 1802, and settled on the site of the
present town of Preston. He was a man of great energy and
activity, and always maintained a high standing iu the com-
munity. He filled the office of justice of the peace for several
years, and in 1819 was chosen a member of the county com-
rai.ssioner's court. He was a ranger in the war of 1812-14.
About the year 1819 he moved to the neighborhood cf
Sparta, and there died in 1829. His four sons, John, Samuel,
Reuben, and .James Harvey, became well-known citizens of
the county. Robert Huggins came from South Carolina iu
1803, and lived for some years in the Irish settlement, and
then removed to the Opossumdeu prairie. His sou, James
Huggins, settled in Flat prairie, about the year 1817, and
improved the first farm in that prairie. The descendants of
Huggins lived afterwanl in Perry county.
In June, 1803, Abijah Leavitt, came to Fort Gage as a
sergeant in Col. Pike's division of the regular army sent
to garrison the fort. He was from Bangor, Maine He
obtained a discharge from the array, and settled a mile back
from Garrison hill, on section twenty-nine, of township six,
range seven, where he improved a farm, on which he lived
for manv years. In early life he had been a sailor. He
was a quiet, industrious citizen, and was held in esteem by
his neighbors. Edward, John, George, and Abijah Leavitt
were his sons. Edward, the oldest, was born on the Ohio
river, on the way to Illinois. Two of the sons are yet living,
and Abijah lives on the old farm on which his father settled.
Numerous and valuable additions were made to the Irish
vo
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
settlement iu the year 1804. John McClinton, David
Anderson, James Anderson, and Adam Hill, with their
families, numbering in all thirty-one person-i, reached the
settlement on Christmas day of that year. This was the
largest single colony which up to that time had settled in
the county, and gave a great impetus to the growth of the
Irish settlement. A few weeks after their arrival McClin-
ton's wife died, and he himself died within a year afterward.
His three sons, John, William, and Samuel McClinton, were
placed under the guardianship of the Hills and Andersons,
Ddvid Anderson, or as he subsequently came to be called,
Colonel Anderson, was a man of much popularity. He was
strong and athletic, benevolent and kind in his disposition,
and a warm friend of religious institutions. He was elected
colonel of the militia. For several years, under the territo-
rial government, he was one of the judges of the court of
couraon pleas, and afterwards in 1819 and 1820 one of the
members of the county commissioner's court. His sons all
died in early life. His oldest daughter became the wife of
Robert G. Shannon. James Anderson died a few years after
coming ti Illinois. He left five sons James, John, William,
Th >mas and David. The Andersons settled in section five,
of township live south, range seven. They came from the
Abbeville district, South Carolina, where their ancestors had
settled previous to the war of the Revolution. Adam Hill
settled northeast of Evansville. John, William, Adam,
Robert and Samuel Hill were his sons.
At the close of the year 1804 another important colony
r ached the Irish settlement, among which were Absalom
Cox, Archibald Thompson, James Thompson, Robert Mc-
Donald, and William McBride. This colony also came from
the Abbeville district in Sjuth Carolina. Absalom Cox
settled on the Kaskaskia on the old claim granted to Elijah
Smith for his improvement there made. He established
Cox's ferry across the river at that point within a few years
after his arrival. When he located here it was the highest
settlement of the Kaskaskia He was elected captain of a
militia company, and was in the ranging service during the
war of 1812-14. He died on his farm in the year 1844.
John, William, Thomas, and Absalom "were his sons. Archi-
bald Thompson was a man of excellent character. In 1812
he moved to a farm two miles south of the present town of
Evansville where he died at an advanced age in 18.33 He
was one of the judges of the common pleas c >urt which ex-
isted in territorial days. Robert, William, Moses, Archi-
bald, John and James Thompson were his sons. He was
elected a member of the State legislature in 1834, and died
while filling that position. James Thompson settled on a
farm on coming to Illinois in 1804. He served as a ranger
during the Indian troubles. Robert and Archibald were his
sons. William McBride proved a valuable member of the
community. He was born in the north of Ireland, and was
advanced in years when he came from South Carolina to
Illinois. He died in 1818. He had three sons, Thomas,
John and William. William, the youngest, was captain of
a militia company in 1813, and county commissioner in 1844.
He was the father of John T. McBride. Robert McDonald
settled near the Kaskaskia, a short distance below Cox, and
there died. None of his descendants now remain in the
county
John Lacy, in the year 1804, reached the county from
South Carolina, and improved a farm about seven miles
northeast of Chester. He lived here some years, and died.
His widow married Major Adair, and the farm on which
Lacy settled became afterward known as the " Major Adair
place." Samuel Cochran, in 1804, settled'three miles north
of Chester, and improved what was afterward known as the
Haskin farm. His location was at some distance from the
other settlenienis, and, though sociable and fond of com-
panionship, he was here obliged to lead a secluded life. He
was influential and popular, and among the public positions
which he held was that of judge of the common pleas court.
He held this office previous to 1809, while Illinois was yet a
part of the Indian territory. He died in Jackson county,
in 1824. His sons were John, William. George, Alexander
and Elisha, and all were noted for their skill as hunters.
William lived and died on the farm one mile northwest of
Chester included in claim 292. George, Alexander and
Elisha became citizens of Jackson county. Near the present
town of Rockwood, a man by the name of Emsley Jones,
settled about the year 1804. In a quarrel with a man
named Reed, living in the same neighborhood in the Miss-
issippi bottom, he killed Reed. For this murder he was
hung iu the commons, south of Kaskaskia. His execution
was witnessed by a great concourse of people. This was the
.second hanging to take place iu the county In the year
1802, about fifteen miles east of Kaskaskia, near Mary's
river, a young man going back from Kaskaskia to the east,
was shot by an Indian. The murderer was a straggling
Delaware from west of the Mississippi. With the murdered
man's saddle and some other articles he escaped towards the
mouth of the Big Muddy river. The Kaskaskia Indians
were employed to search for the murderer whom they found
and brought to Kaskaskia. Certain articles belonging to the
murdered man, found in the possession of the Indian,
formed the evi lence on which he was convicted. He was hung
late in the fall of 1802, by Dr. George Fisher, then sheriff,
on a honey locust tree, on the bank of the Kaskaskia river,
a mile or so above the village of Kaskaskia. These two
executions were the only ones in Illinois till 1821, when one
took place at Belleville.
In the year 1805, Alexander Barber reached the county
from Ohio. He settled east of the Kaskas'ua river and
west of Ellis Grove, where he lived twenty years, and then
moved to a farm two miles north of Rockwood. He was a
man of strong natural mental abilities, clear judgment and
robust constitution. The«e qualifications gave him a lead-
ing place among pioneers, and his opinion and judgment
were much relied on. He had mechanical genius, and as
the settlement increased engaged in building mills, and thus
was of much use to the people of the county. The name of
Barber, to the early residents of the county, always sug-
gested a mill. He filled the office of justice of the peace
without interruption for more than forty years, and his
official acts in this position are unusually equitable and sat-
isfactory. Alexander Clark iu 1805 settled three miles
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY VOVNTIES, ILLINOIS.
71
south of the present town of Evansville. The Abbeville
district, South Carolina, made another contribution to the
settlement of the county this year in the Lively family.
Joseph Lively settled the Seymour farm iu section twenty-
eight, of township six, range seven, three miles northeast of
Kaskaskia. In 1823 he removed to the lower end of the
Opossumden prairie. He died in 1823, leaving six fons,
Amos, Shadrach, Enoch, Kichard, James and Reuben.
John Lively settled on the prairie northwest of the Irish
settlement, which thenceforth was known by the name of
Lively prairie. He died in the year 1.H26. Reuben, James,
Turner, William and Hugh were his sons. Another branch
of the Lively family settled in what is now Washington
county, where in 1813, the wife and all the children, but
two, of William Lively were killed by the Indians.
Among the arrivals in 1806 were George Wilson and
Samuel Crozier from the Abbeville district, South Carolina.
The former settled near the fork of Plum creek, and from
there removed to the mouth of Doza creek. When the war
of 1812-14 began, he, with his neighbors, built a fort which
stood about a mile from the < ast bank of the Kaskaskia, not
far from the line between townships 4 and 5. He took an
active part as a ranger in that war, and after its conclusion
settled in the old fort, improving a farm in the neighborhood.
In 1828 he moved to the Heacock prairie, where he died in
18.57. His sons were John, George, William, James and
Andrew. Samuel Crozier improved a farm on Nine Mile
creek, three miles so\ith of the present town of Evansville.
He was affable and benevolent, and possessed unusually
strong mental qualities. He was elected a member of the
.state senate in 1.^22, and served till 1824. John, James,
Andrew, Archibald, and Samuel, were his sons. John set-
tled on the site of Red Bud in 1824, and his son, Samuel
Crozier, was one of the founders of that town.
The year 1807 witnessed the arrival of John Campbell,
who settled near the mouth of Xine Mile Creek ; of the Tag-
garts who settled in the part of the county north of Chester
where their descendants still live; of John Steele, the pio-
neer of the Steeleville neighborhood, and of John Mausker,
who moved across the river from Missouri and located on
the island in the Mississippi opposite Rockwood. John
Campbell was from the Abbeville district. South Carolina.
From his first location near the mouth of Nine Mile creek,
he removed to a place four miles east of where Evansville
now is, where he ditd in 1827. He was unassuming, quiet
and respecttd. John, Samuel, Archibald and James Camp-
bell, his sons, settled near their father. John and Daniel
Taggart were also South Carolinians. The former for some
years remained in the neighborhood of Kaskaskia. He was
in the ranging service, and after the conclusion of the war
settled on the farm, nine miles north of Chester, on which
he afterward lived many years. Amos Taggart was his son.
Daniel Taggart also performed service as a ranger, and
settled on a farm near his brother. His sons were John,
William, Amos and Daniel. John Steele was a captain in
the Virginia force during the Revolutionary war. After
the colonies had gained their independence he became one
of the pioneer settlers of Tennessee, living for a time near
Knoxville, and then in the neighborhood of Nashville. He
had the qualities requisite for a pioneer hfe^self-reliance
and courage — and selecting a location beyond the limits of
the settlements, made the first improvement iu the neighbor-
hood of the present town of Steeleville. His sons were George,
Archibald, James, John and Thomas. George Steele was
the founder of Georgetown, or Steeleville, as the place came
to be called. He settled on the site of the town in 1810,
and iu 1812 a fort was erected here for protection against
the Indians. All the five brothers were in the ranging
service during the war. John Mausker was one of the pio-
neers of Kentucky and Tennessee. At St. Clair's defeat by
the Indians he received seven different wounds, but eflected
a miraculous escape from the field of carnage. In 1804 he
settled in Ste. Genevieve county, Mi.s.souri, three years later
located on the island opposite Rockwood, and in 1812 on
the river above Rockwood. His .son, Samuel Mausker, has
since lived in the .same vicinity, and is now one of the oldest
citizens of the county.
The number of new settlers in 1808 were quite numerous.
Jacob Bowerman, a man of great decision of character, set-
tled three miles south of Steeleville, and afterward west of
that town. He was remarkably ingenious, and could work
at almost any trade, even making good guns, without pre-
vious instruction. As a marksman with the rifle he had uo
superior. He had lour sons, Jonathan, Jesse, Michael and
Wdliam. Robert Foster and John Anderson this year
made the journey from the Abbeville district, South Caro-
lina, on horseback. Anderson was a brother of Colonel
David Anderson, near whom he ^ettled. For many years
he was a justice of the peace. Foster first settled near the
Kaskaskia, to the west of Ellis Grove, and then on Plum
creek, where he erected a horse mill and steam distillery.
These conveniences caused the influx of other settlers to the
neighborhood, ami Foster's mill became a place of frequent
resort. Musters and other public gatherings were held
here. He died in 1831. Samuel, John, James, William and
David were his sons. James was one of the founders of
Sparta. A man named Henderson also arrived from South
Carolina in 1808, and settled on the Kaskaskia river, oppo-
site Evansville. The immediate neighborhood of the present
city of Chester received its first settler this year in the per-
son of John Clendinen who came from (ireen county, Ken-
tucky. He improved the farm, afterward known as the
Porter place. He had been a soldier in the Revolutionary
war, and the story is told that once, while guarding some
prisoners, a lady came and besought permission to see her
brother, one of the captured men. His gallantry did not
permit hira to refuse, and confiding in her integrity, he
loaned her his uniform in order that she might eflt-ct her
object. The lady made the visit in safety, and was grateful
for his kiudness. He was an honorable, industrious citizen.
His descendants reside in the southern jiart of the county.
His sons were James, Henry, John and Harvey. James
Clendinen setthd about half a mile west of Diamond Cross
in 1808, from which place in 1837 he removed to the neigh-
borhood of Rockwood. Harvey Clendinen was county
commissioner from 1838 to 1844. Andrew Mct'ormack and
72
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
John Miller located in the Bilderback settlement, north of
Kaskaskia and east of the Kaskaskia river, in 1808. Richard
Robbison came to this part of the county the same year, and
afterward removed to the vicinity of the present town of
Steeleville. He had a large family of sons from whom
sprang a numerous posterity. Augustus Davis, who came
to Kaskaskia in 1808, became subsequently a member of the
Steele settlement. James White, a South Carolinian, settled
in 1808 on the hills west of Steeleville, half a mile north of
where the road leading from Steeleville to Chester crosses
Mary's river. This year William Barnet came from Ken-
tucky and joined the Irish settlement. He died in 1818.
John, his oldest son, lived for many years on the place his
father settled, William, the second son, while returning
home from a campaign against the Indians in 1813 was
drowned while crossing Plum creek, within a distance of two
miles from his father's house.
Kaskaskia in the first decade of the present century
received a large increase of American population. Michael
Jones came to the town in 1804 as register of the land office.
His address was plea.sing and plausible, hia education good,
and he was well qualified for business, though his tempera-
ment was said to be excitable and irritable With E.
Backus, receiver at the land office, he acted as commissioner
to adjust land claims in the Kaskaskia district. The Rector
family came to Kaskaskia in 1806, and were connected with
the surveys of the public lands. There were nine brothers
and four sisters, all born in Fauquier county, Virginia.
Reynolds speaks of them as singular and peculiar in their
traits of character; ardent, excitable and enthusiastic in
disposition ; possessing integrity and honesty of purpose in
the highest degree ; impulsive and ungovernable when their
passions were aroused; true and devoted friendi, but impul-
sive and energetic enemies; and the most fearless and un-
daunted people he ever knew, dangers, perils and death
appearing to them, when excited, as only amusements.
William Rector, the oldest brother, was colonel of a regiment
in the campaign against the Indians in 1812. In 1816 he
was appointed surveyor-general for Illinois, Missouri and
Arkansas. Stephen Rector was a lieutenant in the ranging
service in the war of 1812-14. Nelson Rector was captain
of an expedition up the Mississippi in 1814, and had an
engagement with the British and Indians at Rock Island.
Dressed richly in a splendid military uniform, with a large
red feather in his hat, he led his company from the boat,
disregarding the fire of the Indians, especially directed to
him, as though their rifles were but pop guns Thomas
Rector fought a duel with Joshua Barton, a prominent citi-
zen of Missouri, on Bloody Island, opposite St. Louis. The
establishment of the territorial goverument in 1809 brought
to Kaskaskia many distinguished residents, among whom
were Gov. Ninian Edwards, Nathaniel Pope, Benjamin
Stephenson, Judge Jesse B. Thomas, Judge Alexandet Stu-
art, John J. Crittenden, and his brother, Thomas P. Crit-
tenden, William C. Greenup and Matthew Duncan, who
established, in the fall of 1809, the first newspaper in Illinois.
The winter of 1809-10 witnessed more gayely, carousal and
amusement at Kaskaskia than the town has ever since
known. Governor Edwards and other territorial officers,
soon after their arrival, organized a colony of their own, and
located in the prairie in the bottom below Prairie du Rocher.
Edwards, Thomas, Stuart, Stephenson and some of the Rec-
tors resided here.
In 1809 John Beattie came to the Irish settlement. He
was a native of the Abbeville district. South Carolina. He
was quiet and retired in disposition, but with much force and
decision of character. John, Andrew and Charles Beattie
were his sons. The settlement in the Horse prairie began to
increase in 1809. That year witnessed the arrival of Chesley
Allen, Rawleigh Ralls and Edward Faherty. Allen was a
Virginian. His sons, James, John, Albert, William and
Miner Allen became respected citizens of that part of the
county. Rawleigh Ralls was born in Virginia, and served as
a soldier in the latter part of the Revolutionary war, though
at that time he was not yet grown to manhood. From Vir-
ginia he removed to Tennessee, and in 1809 came to Illinois.
He first settled near Prairie du Long creek, about three-
fourths of a mile north of the line between Randolph and
Monroe counties, and from there moved to the beautiful
ridge running parallel with the Kaskaskia, and still known
as Rail's ridge. Edward Ralls, his son, settled on the farm
on the ridge that had been originally improved by Robert
McMahan. He died in 1851. John Ralls, another son, was
one of the pioneer preachers of the county, and died in 1857.
Edward Faherty settled on the southern b irder of the Horse
prairie. His sons, Patrick and John Faherty, were after-
ward residents of that part of the county. Ezra Owen and
his son, Thomas J. V. Owen, located in the "Dr. Fisher
settlement," as it was called, also in the year 1809 Ezra
Owen was made major of the militia, and served creditably
in that position. The son was sherifl" of the county from
1823 to 1828, and in 1830 was elected a member of the state
legislature. Dr. George Fisher was born in Hardy county,
Virginia, and settled in Kaskaskia in the year 1789. In
1806 he removed from the village to a farm at the foot of
the bluff, six miles above Kaskaskia on the Prairie du
Rocher road. This vicinity was afterwards known as Dr.
Fisher's settlement. He was appointed sheriff of Randolph
county soon after the organization of Indiana territory, and
filled the office for several years. He was a member of the
first legislature of the territory of Illinois, which met at
Kaskaskia at the close of the year 1812, and was chosen
speaker of the house. He also served as speaker of the
house in the third territorial legislature which convened
during the winters of 1816-17 and 1817-18. He was a
delegate to the convention of 1818 which framed the first
constitution of the state of Illinois. A short time after his
removal to his farm above Kaskaskia the small-pox reached
the vicinity of Kaskaskia. Dr. Fisher erected a hospital on
his farm, and here the great part of the French population
of the surrounding bottom passed through the dangerous
malady under his skillful treatment. The citizens of Kas-
kaskia all that summer kept guard at the outskirts of their
village to prevent the contagion from reaching the town.
The American settlements were undisturbed by the disease.
Dr. Fisher was an able physician, though an early authority
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
states that his education was but ordinarj', and that he
depended more on his natural abilities than on books and
scientific knowledge. lie died in 18'20.
For a kv! years previous to 1809 considerable immigra-
tion had come to Illinois, and the counties bordering on
the Wabash, the Ohio, and the Mississippi, from Vincennes
around to Alton, had begun to improve. The Indian troubles
commenced in 1810, and thence till the conclusion of the
war of 1812-H few new families came to Illinois. The
settlements in Kan<lolph countj' happily escaped the Indian
depredations. The greater part of the able-bodied male
population of the country served as rangers during the war,
scouring the frontier, and taking part in expeditions against
the savages.
Several forts, or block houses, were erected during the
year 1812. One was in the Irish settlement, about a mile
east from the Kaskaskia ; another was in Dr. Fisher's settle-
ment ; another on the site of the present town of Steeleville ;
and a fourth at Jacob Bowermau's. The .settlement east of
the Kaskaskia river used Fort Gage as a place of refuge.
In mo.«t cases the people abandoned their own houses, and
lived together in these forts till the war was over. The
men kej)t up their farms, but always carried with them
Iheir rifles. Several attacks were made on men at work in
the field by the Indians, but no serious injury was done.
The only new settler who camu to the county in 1811
was Michael Harmon. lie came from Tennessee, and after
exploring the country around Kaskaskia, decided to locate
about seven miles north of the present town of Chester and
the same di.stance from Kaskaskia. This locality subse-
quently came to be known as the Harmon settlement.
Returning to Tennessee he brought b.ick his family, but
the next fall died. His seven sons settled in the vicinity.
With Harmon's family came John Young who settled near
Ellis Grove. William Nelson, a native of Ireland, and a
former resident of the Abbeville district, South Carolina,
made a settlement on Horse Creek, some three miles sonth
of the present town of Red Bud, in 1812. He built a dis-
tillery, became a leading man in that part of the county,
and served for a long term of years as justice of the peace.
He had five son.s, John G., Isaac, William, Robert, and
Wilson, some of whom filled public offices. Hugh Leslie
accompanied Nelson from South Carolina, and became a
citizen of the count)'.
In 1814 James and Samuel Thompson reached Kaskaskia
from the Abbeville district, South Carolina. James taught
school in Kaskaskia three years, and settled on a farm in
township five, range seven. He commanded a company of
militia iu the Black Hawk war. He was a skilful surveyor.
For twenty years he surveyed public lands for the United
States government, and was county surveyor for several
terms. In pursuit of his favorite occupation his foot prob-
ably left its impress on every section of land in Randol|)h
county. He was judge of the probate court from 1831 till
the office was abolished by the constitution of 1848. He
was county commissioner in 1820. Samuel Thompson was
also a surveyor, and was employed in surveying the public
land for several years. William and John Allen, originallv
10
residents of Georgia, whence they removed to Ohio, in 1841
came to Illinois, and settled in township five, range seven.
In 1815 Alexander Gaston settled in the ea-!teru part of the
count}', not far from the present town of Stcclcvillo.
Andrew Borders, a native of South Carolina, then a young
man of twenty-three, came to the county in 1810, and began
an unusually successful business career. He settled in the
neighborhood of Sparta, where he died in 1804. He
brought with him to the county four slaves, whom he
treated with great humanity and kindness. Samuel Craw-
ford reached the county from Tennessee in 181G. Three
years later he made a settlement in the lower end of the
Opossumden prairie. He was popular with the people and
held several public positions. He was a justice of the peace
for a time, and receiver of public money at the Kaskaskia
land office. He was elected a member of the state senate
in 18-8, and served till 18:j2. William Fowler, a soldier of
the war of the Revolution, came from South Carolina in
1816, and made his home in the Ilarraou settlement John
Layne, the same year, settled near the present town of Steele-
ville ; James Slater, in the vicinity of Ellis Grove; Cor-
nelius Adkins, in the lower end of Short's prairie; and
Emanuel Canaday, in the Steele neighborhood.
In the year 1817, among the settlers were several who
became conspicuous and infiuential in the early historj' of the
cjunty. Among these was Robert M. Mann. He was born
iu ths Abbevilh district of S)uth Cirolina aid left that
stit3 fjr Illiniis in ISOT. Oa re.ic'iing Kuitucky news of
Indian depredations deterred him from proceeding farther,
and he remained in Logan county, Kentucky, till 1817,
when he came to Randolph county, and entered land near
the present village of Preston, on which he lived until his
death iu 1855. John Mann, his oldest son, came to the
county some years after his father. He served as county
comrais ioner for several years subsequent to 1842. Another
son, Robert Mann, was an oflicer in the Black Hawk war;
in 1820 was elected a member of the state legislature, and
also served as school commissioner. The other two sons
were William and Samuel Alexander Mann. Col. Gibriel
Jones in 1817 settled near Steeleville. He was born in
Loudon county, Virginia. In 1810 he removed with his
father to Barren county, Kentucky. He enlisted in the
Kentucky troops during the war of 1812-14, and was at the
battle of the Thames in Canada. On coming to Steeleville
he taught school. He was active, energetic, and talented,
and was appointed colonel of the militia and served in that
position several years. From 1825 to 1828 he lived near
Kaskaskia, and subsequently was in the mercantile business
at Steeleville and Chester. He was the captain of a com-
pany raised in the county for service in the Black Hawk
war, and was made colonel of the regiment, distinguishing
himself as an able and gallant soldier. He represented
Randolph county in the state legislature from 1824 to 1826,
and from 1S38 to 1840. He was elected a member of the
county commissioner's court in 1822 and 1836. He was
also mayor of the city of Chester. He lost his wife in the
great storm which visited Chester iu November, 1864, his
house being swept away in the tornado.
74
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Ignatius Spregg, in 1817, came from Maryland and settled
iu the American Bottom. He was elected treasurer of the
county, from 1828 to 1838, served as sheriff and became a
citizen of Arkansas. In the latter part of the year 1817,
James and Henry O'Harra came to Illinois and shortly
afterward settled in the neighborhood of the present village of
Ruma. They were of Irish descent, and their ancestors had
settled at an early period in Frederick county, Maryland.
In the year 1811 the family removed from Maryland to Nelson
county, Kentucky, and thence came to Illinois. Curtis
Conn, a native of Boston, Massachusetts, came to the county
in 1S17. He had lived several years in the West India
islands, where he had been actively engaged in trade. After
residing for a year in Kaskaskia he settled on the firm, a
couple of miles northwest of Chester, which Samuel Cochran
had begun to improve in 1804. He was judge of the probate
court ten years. Daniel Alexander reached the county iu
1817 from Maine. He settled on a farm in the Hughs
settlement, and after living there many years went to Texas,
where he was murdered. James McFarlaud, a South
Carolinian, settled on the we^t fork of Mary's river, near
where that stream is cros.sed by the Kaskaskia road, iu 1817.
Samuel Nisbet, also a native of Sjutli Carolina, settled the
same year o:ie mile east of where the village of Eden was
nfterward built William Morris became a resident of the
Opossumden prairie, and William Givin and the Barrows
and Houseman families located in the vicinity of Shiloh.
At the point of the bluff, five miles above Kaskaskia, Henry
Will began the improvement of a farm in 18-7, and an im-
portant settlement sprang up in his vicinity.
In the year 1818 the neighborhood south of Ruma re-
ceived important additions in the families of Joseph and
Thomas Orr, Benedict Horrel, John Brewer and Norton,
Samuel, L?wis and Thomas Hull. Amos Paxton was also one
of the pioneers in this part of the county. The Orrs were
from Virginia. Joseph was a major in the militia. The
Brewers and the Hulls came from Kentucky. One of the
most useful and respected of the early residents of the county,
the Rev. Silas Crisler, arrived from Boone couuty, Kentucky,
in 1818, and began the improvement of a farm, on the old
Shawneetown road, near the Harmon settlement seven miles
north of Chester. Much of his time was devoted to the work
of the ministry, and he was the founder and pastor of the
Gravel creek church, one of the early Baptist churches in
Illinois. He died in 1851. Amasa Aldrich a native of
Massachusetts, became a citizen of Kaskaskia in 1818. A
few years afterward he settled on a farm north of Chester.
In 1819, a Tennessean, Alexander Campbell, came to the
Irish settlement. He afterward removed to the neighbor-
hood of Steeleville. One of his sons, Edward Campbell, was
elected county commissioner in 1844. Another, John Camp-
bell, was sheriff from 1838 to 1848 and from 1854 to 1856,
and county judge from 1849 to 185S and from 1856 to 1861.
Eli Short, a soldier in the Kentucky troops during the war
of 1812-14. who had received a wound at the battle of Tip-
pecanoe, which troubled him during the rest of his life in
1819 settled in the prairie in the eastern part of the county
which still bears his name. For many years he preached the
Gospel. One of his sons, Jefferson Short, was killed in the
Black Hawk war. David Hathorn in 1819 settled near the
site of EvansviUe, and afterward in the Opossumden prairie.
James Baird came from Ohio the same year, and began the
improvement of a farm three miles south of Sparta. Arthur
Parks settled in the eastern edge of the Lively prairie. He
was county commissioner from 1824 to 1826. Adonijah Ball
made a settlement on Rock Castle creek iu a region which
no one had previously penetrated. George W Stratton came
to the county in IS 19 He first settled in the American
Bottom, and shortly afterward purchased the laud on which
that part of Chester known as Buena Vista is now built, on
which he lived till his death in 1845. Isaac Rust, a native
of Maine, first cane to Kaskaskia in 1819. In early life he
had been a sailor, and after a few years tried the sea again
for a year, and then returned to become a permanent citizen
of the county. He was a wagon-maker, and introduced an
improved style of wagons among the Kaskaskia people.
He also repaired boats, and rigged sailing vessels with masts,
thus bringing his nautical knowledge into use. In 1836 he
removed to a farm two miles east of Chester. Sheltou Evans
and Lewis Simmons settled in the point below Kaskaskia
about the year 1819, and in 1825 removed to the Horse
prairie, where the penitentiary is now built, above Chester.
Benjamin A. Porter settled in 1819. He built a brick house
and a mill. The mill burned down, but the house stood for
many years afterward.
In 1820, numerous additions were made to the population
of the county. Robert Bratuey, who had been a soldier in
the war of the revolution, and an early settler in Tennessee
settled near the mouth of Little Plum creek. With him
came his son, Josepli Bratney, who had served under Jack-
son in the war of 1812-14. Martin Smith arrived from the
state of New York. John Thomison began the improve-
ment of a farm four miles west of Sparta. Alexander Alex-
ander came from the Chester district. South Carolina, and
settled one mile south of where the village of Eden now is.
Thomas, William and John McDill located in the neighbor-
hood of the present town of Sparta. John Adams, a native
of North Carolina, and one of the pioneer settlers of Ken-
tucky, came to the neighborhood of EvansviUe, and in 1822
settled in the Horse prairie. John and Samuel Cochran
settled in the vicinity of Chester, the former first living near
the mouth of Mary's river, and afterward on the farm sub-
sequently occupied by Isaac Rust, and the latter improving
the Douglas place, two miles and a half east of Chester.
The settlement in the lower end of Flat prairie was
strengthened by the arrival, in 1820, of David Cathcart,
John Dickey, and John McMillen, and the next year of
Ebenezer Alexander and James Anderson. Heacock prai-
rie was settled in 1822 by Samuel Douglass, James Bean,
Thomas McBride, James Redpath, and Elisha, George,
Charles and Fortiss Heacock. The same year, the Grand
Cote prairie, in the northeast part of the county, received as
its pioneer settlers, James Coulter, John McKelvey, and
Alexander McKelvey.
In the precinct histories will be found more minute men.
tion of the pioneer settlers of the county. Of all of them it
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
75
may be said that they were simple-hearted, brave, and
generous, and their memories should be cherished as those
who, on the soil of Randolph county, laid the first founda-
tions of the great commonwealth of Illinois.
EAKLY MILLS.
The first water-mill ever built in Illinois was near Kas-
kaskia, on the opposite side of the Kaskaskia river, where
now stands Reiley's mill. Prix Paget (the name is spelled
" Pagi " in the deeds of conveyance) was the earliest pro-
prietor of a mill at that place of whom there is any record.
He erecteil a stone mill, and engaged in the manufacture of
flour for the New Orleans and Mobile markets. He -met
his death at the hands of the Indians. The mill was
attackeii by a band of Kickapoos, and Paget, with some
negrots employed in the mill, was killed. One negro made
his escape, and gave the alarm to the people of Kas-
kaskia. Paget's body was found cut in pieces, the head
severed from the body, and thrown into the hopper. The
old mill was about one hundred and fifty yards below the
site cjf the present one. After Paget's death the mill was
abandoned for many years. The structure crumbled to
pieces, so that only the walls remained. About the year
1795 the mill tract came into the possession of General John
Edgar, who rebuilt the mill with enlarged capacity. From
the mill-pond, about three hundred yards distant, the water
was conveyed by an arched culvert. General E<lgar carried
on the mill for many years, and it was of great service, both
to the people of Kaskaskia and the pioneer American fami-
lies who settled in the various parts of the county. It was
resorted to from a distance of many miles. The mill ceaseit
to run while still owned by General Edgar. After his
death, it passed into the possession of a company composed
of Jacob Feaman, Anthony Lessieur, James 51. Wheeler,
and Samuel Jones, who put it in running order. Daniel
Reiley purchased it in 1842, and made important improve-
ments. In 18-5.5 he began the erection of a steam mill.
He was aclivelv engaged in running the mill till his death
in 1867, and made Reiley's mill the center of considerable
business activity.
A mill was built in early times at Prairie du Rocher.
Henry Levins' mill on Horse creek was a great convenience
to the residents of that part of the county.
OVERFLOWS OF THE MISSI3SIPPL
An inundation of the Mississippi bottom in Randolph and
Monroe counties occurred in the year 172.5. Another, which
made necessary the abandonment of Fort Ghartres, took
place in 1772. The flood of 1785 was the greatest of the
last century. The French villiges were reached by the
water. The inhabitants of Kaskaskia and Cahokia were
compelled to seek refuge on the bluffs. The next great
flood was that of 1844, still remembered and referred to, not
only by the residents of the .Vmerican Bottom, but by people
then living abng the whole course of the Mississippi and
Missouri rivers. Water many feet deep covered the bottom.
Large steamboats sailed from bluft'to bluti'. The village of
Kaskaskia was almost destroyed. The water stood five feet
deep in the old hotel building, while the high water of 1785
had just reached the fli),)r. Sub^equeut overflows have
occurred in later years, but none so great or destructive.
The annual rise usually washes away ([uantities of land at
different points in the bottom, and the river from lime to
time has shifted its channel. The Mississippi each year has
approached nearer and nearer to Kaskaskia. On the 20th
of April, 1881, the neck of land separating the Mississippi
and the Kaskaskia, above the village of Kaskaskia, was
washed away, and about one-fourth of the water of the
Mississippi now passes down the Kii<kaskia. Three or four
da)'s after this cut off was nia le. steamboats efl'ecled a pas-
sage by the new channel.
MONROE COUNTY.
While the ncighl)oring counties of Randolph and St. Chiir
contained the great bulk of the early French population of
Illinois, M )nroe was the chief seat of the pioneer American
settlements. The American inhabitants of Illinois at the
beginning of the century were about eight hundred in num-
ber. Of these not many mon- than a hundred resided in
what is now Randolph county, and less thin thirty in .St.
Clair. Monroe county contained the balance. The settle-
ments at New Design, at Bellefontaine, in the American
Bottom and arouml Whiteside's station and Pigu'ott's ancient
fort, w.'re thrifty an.! vigorous. Purtions of the Am-jrican
bottom wer^ as densely populated tlu'u as now. From this
it may well be judged that an important part of tiie early
historv of Illinois is inscribed in the annals of the pioneer
settlements of Monroe county. These settlements bore the
brunt of savage depreilations during the Indian war which
raged from 1786 t.) IT'.l'i. Many ol' the piuneers fell victims
to the tomahawk anil xalping knife of the savage, and
many families were massacred. The Jlorelocksand White-
sides became the most noted Indian fighters iu ll," West.
Afterward, when these daigers were over, populaiicjn had
increased, and a state government was organized, the county,
in the person of one of her early citizens, furnished Illinois
her first governor. The gubernatorial chair was twice sub-
sequently filled by men who began their distinguished
careers iu this part of the state, and the first nativcboru
citizen of Illinois to represent the state iu the United .States
senate first saw the light of day in an old house HJiich is still
standing on the soil of Monroe ci'unly.
The first American colony to settle within the territory
now comprised in the county, arrived in the year 1782, and
was compo.sed of James Moore, Shadrach Bond, Robert
Kidd, Larken Rutherford and James Garretson. Their
wives and children accompanied them, and they came to
make a permanent settlement. Crossing the Allegheny
mountains, they floated down the Ohio to its mouth, and
then propelled their craft against the strong current of the
Mississippi till they reached Kaskaskia some time in the
autumn of the year 1781. From this place the country was
explored in difl'erent directions, and all of tlu party fixed
on locations now in Monroe county, as the most eligible
place for settlement. The French inhabitants had clung
close to two or three villages, and had made little progress
toward clearing the wilderness, or extending their settlements
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
over any considerable territory. These Marylanders and
Virginians adopted a different policy. With the true Saxon
instinct of ownership of his own homestead and lordship
over his own acres, ejch immigrant selected a location where
he would be likely to experience little trouble from neigh-
bors and remain master of his own domain. The hill trac-^
between the French villages of Kaskaskia and Cahokia and
St. Louis passed near a beautiful spring, a high, healthy
ground, to which the French had applied the name of Belle-
fonlaine. Here Moore, Garretson and Rutherford deter-
mined to make their settlement. The rich soil of the Miss-
issippi bottom attracted the attention of other members of
the colony, and there Kidd and Bond made their homes.
Kidil clung closest to the French villages, and settled at a
distance of but a few miles from Prairie du Rocher. Bond
chose a location farther north. These settlements were made
in the spring of the year 1782.
James Moore, the leader of this colony, was a native of
Maryland. He was a man of vigorous traits of mind, ready
resources, and was accustomed to the exigencies of pioneer
life. Not long after his arrival he was employed by Gabriel
Cerre, a wealthy merchant of St. Louis, to take goods and
trade with the Indians in the western part of Tennessee.
He was thus engaged for a number of 3'ears, during which
time he made his headquarters at the French Licks, as the
place was then called, where now is built the capital of the
state of Tennessee. His place of settlement was a short
distance south of. the site of the town of Waterloo where
the spring, which attracted liim to this locality, may still be
observed.
James Garretson first made an improvement near the
Bellefoutaine. Claim 510, survey 720, a mile northeast of
Waterloo, was granted to him as an improvement right.
He afterward removed to the American Bottom, and for
many years his home was in the present iloredock precinct.
He was an honest, upright citizen, unambitious and unas-
suming, and always refused to hold public position. He
was a brave man and an excellent soldier, and did his part
toward protecting the settlements from the attacks of the
Indians. His brother, Samuel Garretson, was kilkd by the
Indians during the winter of 1788-89.
Robert Kidd had been one of the soldiers in George
Roger Clark's expedition to Illinois in 1778, and had taken
part in the capture of Fort Gage. He made a quiet and
unpretentious citizen of the great commonwealth of which
ho was one of the founders, and died at his home in the
American Bottom in the southern part of the county in 1849.
Kidd lake, near the head of which he settled, bears his name.
Larken Rutherford had also been a soldier under Colonel
Clark. He was a large and athletic man, and was bold and
fearless in his disposition. At the storming of Fort Sackville
in 1779 he exhibited much bravery. Soon after the year
1800 he removed to the present St. Clair county, and settled
north of Belleville. During the latter years of his life he
was a zealous member of the Baptist church. In the organ-
ization and government of the church he took an active part.
He was honest in his views, and while vigorously observing
his own duties, was rigid and exact in expecting the same
from others. A difference of opinion he would not tolerate.
He was a member of the Richland Baptist church in St.
Clair county, and in 1809 took offence .it some views ex-
pressed in a sermon by James Lemen on slavery, of which
Lemen was a strong opponent. Rutherford brought the
matter before the church authorities, and the result was a
division not only of the Richland church, but of the Baptist
association, which was continued for many years.
Shadrach Bond was born and raised near Baltimore,
Maryland. He lived on his farm in the American Bottom
for many years till his death at an advanced age. He was
the uncle of Shadrach Bond, the first governor of the State
of Illinois. He was several times elected to the legislature
of both the Indiana and northwestern territories. He was a
representative in the territorial legislature which convened
at Cincinnati in September, 1790. For several years he was
one of the judges of the St. Clair county common pleas court.
In these public positions he discharged his duties in a con-
scientious manner, and was held in high estimation by the
people. His education was limited, but he possessed a strong
mind and an excellent heart. He was not ambitious for
wealth. In his younger days, as was the case with most of
the early pioneers, he spent a considerable part of his time
in hunting, and was considered an excellent woodsman. He
was one of that cla.ss of men who improve with age, and the
longer he lived and the better he became known, the more
his character wfs esteemed.
All the members of this band of pioneers left descendants
who have since been identified with the State of Illinois, and
of whom some have reached positions of influence and dis-
tinction. The families of Bond, Garretson, Moore, and Kidd,
are all represented by some member living either in Monroe,
or an adjoining county, and the land on which Moore settled
at the Bellefoutaine has never left the family, and is now
owned by heirs of the original pioneer.
Soon after these hardy adventurers from Maryland and
Virginia had prepared the way, a New England man fol-
lowed. This was Captain Nathaniel Hull, born in Massa-
chusetts. He was one of the first; to make his way overland
from the Ohio river to Kaskaskia, and his track was the one
usually taken by subsequent bands of immigrants. He set-
tled under the bluff below ChalHn Bridge, and bscame a
prominent citizen of the new community. His store, and
the post-office there established, were in all probability, the
first in the county. He served as magistrate and county
judge. With all his good qualities he was a man of eccen-
tric notions, and asked to be buried in an upright position,
standing as in life, overlooking from his grove in the bluff
above his house, the fertile expanse of the American Bottom.
Another of the early pioneers, William Biggs, became the
first sheriff of St. Clair county, which then included Monroe,
and filled other important public positions. He was born in
Maryland, served under Colonel Clark in the war of the
Revolution, and coming to Illinois settled at the Bdlefon-
taine. He was taken prisoner by the Indians, who killed
his companion, Vallis, in 1788, and effected his escape by
paying a ransom. He was accompanied to Illinois by his
two brothers. George Biggs settled southwest of Waterloo
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
77
where he received a grant of land included in claim 777.
The Huff and Moredock family came in the year 1786, and
first settled near the Bellcfontaine, but afterward removed
to the American Bottom. The murder of Mrs. Ilufl'by the
Indians, on the route to Illinois, instilled such deadly hatred
of the savage race into the breast of her son, John Moredock,
that he never lost an opportunity of avenging his wrongs.
Piggott's fort, or the fort of the " grand ruisseau," as it was
called by the French in the American Bottom, not far from
the bhiH", west of Columbia, was established about the year
1783. James Piggott wa.s a native of Connecticut, and early
in the war of the Revolution engaged in the privateering
service. He removed to Pennsylvania, and commanded a
company of Pennsylvania troops at Brandywine, Saratoga,
and other battles. His health becoming impaired by severe
marches and hard service, he was obliged to resign his cap-
taincy, and with his family followed Colonel George Rogers
("lark to the west, and was placed in command of Fort Jeffer-
son which had been established five miles below the mouth
of the Ohio, and on which the Indians made a desperate
assault. In 1790 there were seventeen families, and forty-
six inhabitants, at Piggott's fort. They addressed a petition
to Governor St. Clair, praying for grants of land to the set-
tlers. It was likely on this petition that CoDgre.ss, in 1791,
passed the act granting to every settler on the public lands
in Illinois four luindred acres, and to each enrolled militia-
man one hundred acres. Governor St Clair, under whom
Piggott had served in the war of the Revolution, :ippointed
him the presiding judge of the St. Clair county court. In
1795 he established the first ferry acro.ss the Mississippi at
St. Louis. This has been continued ever since, and is now
known as Wiggins' ferry. The licen.sc was issued by Zenon
Trudean, lieutenant governor of the province of Upper
Louisiana. He died at this ferry, opposite St. Louis, in 1799.
The New Design settlement was founded about the year
178G. James Lemen, a native of Berkeley county, Virgi-
nia, settled here that year. He became the bead of a nu-
merous and iiitluential family which has been held in re-
spect in Illinois for now nearly a century. The dwelling
which he constructed is still standing. It was the first brick
house in the county, and is now one of the oldest in the state.
The New Design .settlement, toward the close of the last
century, was the most flourishing of all the American colo-
nies in Illinois. In 179.3 it received a large acc; ssion in the
Griffin, Gibbons, Enochs, Chance, Musick and Going fami-
lies. Four years later a still more numerous colony arrived.
It was composed of no less than one hundred and fifty-four
persons, and was made of immigrants from Hardy county,
Virginia on the south branch of the Potomac, and included
the Carr, Stookey, Eyeman, Shook, Mitchell, Kinkead,
Clark, Badgeley, Teter and Miller families. The first season
in Illinois was sad and disheartening. The summer was
wet, the journey from the Ohio to Kaskaskia was accom-
plished in mud and water, and though the settlers extended
an open-handed welcome and hospitality, disease desolated
nearly every household, and swept away one-half of the new
arrivals. In New Design the earliest church (Protestant)
organization in Illinois was formed.
The Whitcsides, the family of noted Indian fighters, came
to New Design in 1793, and shortly afterward settled at the
Belle fontaine and Whiteside's station. They were from the
frontiers of North Carolina, and from there had made their
way into Kentucky. The fort which William Whiteside
erected southeast of Columbia wa-s a noted military post in
the Indian wars. John Whiteside lived for many years at
Bellefontaine, and died there. Jo.«eph Kinney settled at
New Design in 1793, and shortly afterward built one of the
first mills in Illinois on Rock House creek. One of his sons,
William Kinney, became lieutenant-governor of the state,
and another, Andrew Kinney, where Monroe city now stands,
built a water-mill from which, early in the present century,
flour was shipped to the St. Louis, New Orleans, and even
more distant markets.
By the act of Congress of 1791, a grant of four hundred
acres of land was made to all who had cultivated or im-
proved land in Illinois, except in villages, prior to the year
1788. Under this act the public records show that forty-
five improvement grants "were made to Americans. The
heads of American families were seventy -five in number, and
all the Americans who were capable of bearing arms as
militia men on or before the year 1791 were only sixty-five.
Under the law which granted four hundred acres to each
head of a family in 1788, two hundred and forty-four dona-
tions were made. From this it is estimated, supposing each
family to have averaged five members, that the whole popu-
lation of Illinois in the year 1788 was twelve hundred and
twenty.
Where the road from the Bellefontaine to Cahokia de-
scended the bluff' settlements were made by the Ogles and
Biggs in the year 1790. The Ogle family brought a con-
siderable tract of land under cultivation in the bottom ad-
joining the bluff". The same year families of the name of
Short, Griffin, Gibbons, Roberts and Valentine settled be-
tween Bellefontaine anil the bluff' in the present Bluff' pre-
cinct. After a few years this settlement was abandoned en-
tirely. A large grave-yard showed that the inhabitants of
this neighborhood must have been at one time quite numer-
ous. The first settlement northeast of Whiteside's station,
in the present limits of St. Clair county, was made by
William Scott, a native of Botetourt county, Virginia, who
selected a location on Turkey Ilill, near Belleville, in De-
cember, 1797. The Jlurdick family settled in the American
Bottom in 1796, and John Murdick grew up to be the wag
of the day. George and William Blair came the
same year. George lived for a time on the Eberman
place, north of Waterloo, and on a ranch west of hi?
residence erected a distillery in early times. In iMt^
he removed to the site of the present city of Belleville, and
the public buildings were located on part of his farm at the
time the county seat was removed to that place from Caho-
kia. James McRoberts, in 1797, settled north of the present
Maysville. He lived here many years, and was honored
and respected. One of his sons became L nited States sena-
tor. Dr. Caldwell Cairnes, at the beginning of the century,
settled north of the present town of Harrisonville. For
years he practiced his profession in the American Bottom.
7S
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
He was a member of the convention which framed the ori-
ginal constitution of the state, and was one of the judges of
the St. Cliir county court.
Among the new settlers who reached the county in 1804
are the Ford and Forguer family. The eldest of the chil-
dren was George Forguer. His half-brother was Thomas
Ford, who became governor of the state. The father of
George Forguer served as an officer in the revolutionary
war, and toolc part in Arnold's disastrous campaign in
Canada He was subsequently appointed collector of reve-
nue of Bucks county, Penosylvania, and while in the
possession of a large amount of the public money, was
robbed by Tories. The restoration of this amount entailed
the loss of his private fortune, and he removed to the
western borders of Pennsylvania, there to begin life anew.
He settled near what was known as the Eed Stone Old Fort,
afterward called Brownsville, and was killed there by the
falling ia of a coal bank. Some two or three years afterward,
his widow married Robert Ford, who rn 1802 was killed, as
it was supposed, by robbers in the mountains. This left her
with a large family and scanty means of support. The
Spanish government west of the Mississippi was liberal in
its offers of land to actual settleis, and with the object of
taking advantage of this she embarked from Red Stone Old
Fort for St. Louis, in the Spanish country, in the year 1804.
She reached St. L )uis only to find that the country west of
the Mississippi had been ceded to the United States, and she
could obtain no laud except by purchase. She remained in
St. Louis some time, and then she and some of her children
were taken sick. After their recovery, in the fall of the
year 1804, the family came to the east side of the river,
finding a home about three miles south of the present town
of Waterloo. The next year, 1805, the family moved nearer
the bluff, not far from the residence of James McRoberts.
Here George Forguer and Thomas Ford attended the school
kept by Edward Humphrey in the neighborhood of Chalfin
Bridge. Samuel McRoberts also attended this school, so
that Mr. Humphrey, in his primitive school-house in the
bottom, had under his tuition at one time a future attorney-
general of the state, a United States senator, and a governor
of Illinois. Mrs. Forguer was a woman of much talent and
ability, and she bent all her energies toward the education
of her children. She observed system and economy in her
family, and used every endeavor to get along. She herself
taught school for a time near the McRoberts residence. She
afterward moved to a place under the bluff. Those yet liv-
ing who remember Thomas Ford at that period, when he
was about fourteen years old, speak of him as a boy of un-
usually polite manners and pleasing address. Mrs. Ford
bestowed much care on the rearing of her children, and en-
deavored to instill into them sound moral principles. For-
guer, being the oldest of the children, was obliged to work
out, and help gain a support for the family. He began this
when he was nine years old. Altogether he attended school
not much more than a year. He learned the trade of a car-
penter in St. Louis, and worked at it for several years in
that city. He came back to Monroe county, and purchased
the tract of laud on which Waterloo is built, and in company
with Daniel P. Cook laid out the town. He purchased a
stock of goods and opened a store at this point. He also
projected the town of Bridgewater on the Mississippi, a mile
above Harrisonville. His mercantile operations proved a
failure, and he began the study of law. His education was
defective, but he possessed a naturally strong and vigorous
intellect, which supplied many deficiencies in the way of
intellectual training. He had a good voice, and the debat-
ing societies of the county furnished him the training for an
accomplished and pleasing orator. He was elected a repre-
sentative from Monroe county in the State Legislature in
1826, and at the end of the session was appointed Secretary
of State. He was afterward elected Attorney-General. He
removed to Sangamon county, which he represented in the
State Senate. He was also register of the land office at
Springfield. He died of a pulmonary disease, at Cincin-
nati, in the year 1837, at the age of forty-three. Although
he began the world poor, and for some years was embarrassed
with the debts he incurred in his unsuccessful mercantile
operations in this county, he afterward accumulated con-
siderable wealth.
Thomas Ford had better opportunities for acquiring an
education. He was studious in his youth, aud at school
ardently atta bed to the science of mathematics. He
awakened the interest of Daniel P. Cook, who made ar-
rangements for him to study law, and sent him to Lexing-
ton, Kentucky, to improve his education. The misfortunes
of his brother Forguer obliged him to return home, and
while reading law he taught school, at intervals, at Water-
loo, to gain the means of a support. He began practice in
1823; in 1829 was appointed prosecuting attorney; in 1835
was elected circuit judge ; in 1840 an associate justice of the
supreme court; and in 1842 governor of the state. He died
at Peoria in 1849, which place he made his home after the
close of his term as governor.
INDI.^N HOSTILITIES.
In the Indian hostilities from 1786 to 1795 the inhabit-
ants of the present Monroe county suffered greatly. The
pioneer settlers realized their exposed condition, aud as soon
as they reached the county erected forts for their protection.
One of these block houses was at Bellefontaine. Another
was in the American Bottom near the residence of Shadrach
Bond. Another was built by Daniel and James Flannary
on the main road from Kaskaskia to Cahokia. This was
about three miles southeast of the present town of Columbia,
and was afterward widely known as Whiteside's station. A
fourth was erected by James Piggot at the foot of the bluff,
a mile and a half west of Columbia, where a small creek,
called by the French the Grand Ruisseau, emerges from the
bluff. This was also a celebrated place in early times, and
was known as Piggot's fort. A fifth block house was built
by Nathaniel Hull at his residence at the foot of the bluff
just below the present Chalfin bridge. Brashear's station
stood near the present town of Harrisonville, and Golden's
block house not far from where Monroe city is now built.
Sometimes these forts, or stations, consisted of a single block
house, the second story projecting over the first, with holes
HISIORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
79
in the floor through which to shoot at Indians attempting to
enter the lower story. The lower story was provided with
port holes, and with strong p'uncheou doors, three or four
inches thick, stoutly barred. Another and better style of
pioneer fortification was made by building a large, strong
block house on each of the four corners of a square lot of
ground. Large timbers, placed deep in the ground and
extending twelve or fifteen feet above the surface, filled in
the interval between the buildings. Within these stockades
caSins were built, and if a spring was not to be found a well
was dug. When danger was suspected horses were kept
inside during the night. There were usually two strong
gates. In the line of the stockade, near the top, port holes
were cut here and there, and platforms were constructed
inside on which to stand and shoot. The timber was care-
fully cleared away in the vicinity so that no place of ambush
might be aflorded the enemy. Sometimes sentinels were
k?pt on watch during the night. In the morning the
inmates emerged from the fort with great caution, for the
Indians at that hour often lurked in the neighborhood. In
these stations the inhabitants found refuge in times of
anticipated danger, and from them issued the expeditions
that set out from time to time to punish the Indians for .some
atrocity.
In the year 1780 while Mr Hulf, who had married the
widow Moredock, was coming to Illinois from Western
Pennsylvania with the Moredock family, the party was
attacked by the Indians on the Missi.ssippi near Grand
Tower, and Mrs. Huff, one of her sons, and some others were
killed. The re-t mauaged to cscap"? in the boat. The body
of Mrs. Huff was mangled in a shocking manner before the
eyes of her husband and family. One of her sons, John
Moredock, swore vengeance against the Indian race, and was
afterward one of the foremost leaders in inflicting punish-
ment on the savages A few years afterward Mr. Huff,
himself, was killed by the Indians on the road between
Prairie du Rocher and Kaskaskia. Many years afterward
his watch and some other articles were found on the spot
where he had been killed.
Before thi.s, in the year 1783, James Flaunary had been
killed, but the settlers were not much apprehensive
of danger till a general war commenced in 1786. That
year James Andrews, who lived two miles north of where
Waterloo now stands, was attacked by the Indians, he and
his wife massacred, and his child taken captive. Andrews
was an adventurous yung Virginian, who had come to
Illinois with the American immigration, and had settled at
Bellefontaine in 1782. Shortly afterward he married the
daughter of Captain Joseph Ogle, and settled at the head
of Andrews' run at a spot now included in claim 507,
survey 721. The window of his cabin was a S()uare hole
cut into the side of the building, which could be .securely
clcsed in times of danger. Andrews had neglected to close
this opening on retiring fjr the night, and just before dawn
while reposing peacefully by the side of his wife and child
there came the sharp, clear report of an Indian's rifle, anil
a bullet penetrated his body. He instantly leaped from the
bed, and sprang out through the opposite door, believing
that the savages would be satisfied with plundering the
house, and would not injure his wife and child. After ran-
sacking the house, and loading themselves with such articles
as they could carry, they prepared to depart, taking Mrs.
Andrews with them, when the little girl, at that time three
years old, who had before remained perfectly quiet and un-
ob-erved, called out, " Don't take my mamma." Upon
hearing the cry, they returned and seized the child, and
carried her with them After traveling about a quarter of
a mile Mrs. Andrews, who was in a delicate state of health,
expecting soon to become the mother of another child,
became uuable to proceed farther, when her inhuman cap-
tors took the unhappy woman behind a tree and murdered
her, leaving the body on the scene of the outrage. The
body of poor Andrews was discovered some days later, far
down the creek, where in weakness and delirium he had
sunk down and died. Captain Ogle, the father of Mrs.
Andrews, went to St. Louis, then a French trading port,
and offered a liberal reward for the recovery of the child
through the French traders and trappers. The little girl
had been carried by the Indians as far north as Prairie du
Chien, but after a short captivity she was brought back to
St. Louis by the French trappers. She was raised in the
family of James Lemen, at New Design. Her name was
Drusilla, and on arriving at womanhood she became the wife
of Henry Mace. Soon after her marriage she and her hus-
band settled on the Andrews' tract, but a short distance
from where the old house had stood. On one occasion, while
sitting with her infant in her arms, an aged Pottawatamie
Indian entered the house, and addressod her in broken Eng-
lish : " House no here long time ago," and then taking her
by the arm led her to where her father's house had stood,
and said, '' Long time ago you papoose, heep Indian came
and kill you mother." Mrs Mace was much agitated. The
Indian, without doubt, was one of the band that massacred
her father and mother. She became the mother of a large
family of children.
On the 10th of December, 1788, while Benjamin Ogle
and James Garretson were hauling hay from the bottom,
they were fired upon by two Indians. A ball lodged in
Ogle's shoulder and remained there. Garretson escaped in
the woods. While engaged in stacking this same hay Samuel
Garretson and a man named Keddick were killed and
scalpi'd. On account of his wound Mr Ogle was granted a
pension by the government. On the 28th of March, 1788,
William Biggs, who then resided at Bellefontaine, in com-
pany with John Vallis, set out for Cahokia, to sell some
beaver fur. When within six miles of Piggot's fort they
heard the report of two guns which they thought had been
fired by hunters. Soon afterward sixteen Indians made
their appearance and presented their guns in readiness to
fire. Biggs and Vallis whipped their horses and attempted
to escape. The bullets of the Indians killed Biggs' horse
and pierced his overcoat with four holes, though his per.son
escaped injury. With his furs and saddle he fell from his
horse, and after running sume distance, was made prisoner.
Vallis was shot in the thigh, but clung to his horse, which
carried him to the fort. He died six weeks afterward from
80
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
his wound. As soou as Vallis reached the fort a swivel gun
was fired to alarm the neighborhood. When the Indians
heard this gun they ran with Biggs for si.K miles. They
were without horses, but traveled forty miles the first day.
One of the Indians attempted to kill Biggs, but this his
comrades would not permit, and killed the Indian himself.
The Indians were Kickapoos, and traveled with Biggs to
their town on the Wabash. After some time he effected his
release by agreeing to pay a Spaniard, named Bazedone,
two hundred and sixty dollars ransom money, and thirty-
seven more for necessaries to enable him to make his journey
home. He reached Kaskaskia by way of the AVabash,
Ohio and Jlississippi rivers, and from there came to Belle-
fontaine. lie was a large and fine-looking man, and was
greatly admired by the Indian maidens, who were his warm
friends during his captivity. He wrote and published a
narrative of his adventures in 1820.
During the years 1789 and 1790 the Indians grew more
bold and troublesome, and numerous murders were com-
mitted. No family or individual was safe, night or day,
from their attacks. It is estimated that in these two years
one-tenth of the inhabitants of the county were massacred.
The Kickapoos were mostly the aggressors. They were
better armed and more vigorous than the other Indian
tribes, and prosecuted their war against the Americans with
great ferocity. The French settlers of Illinois almost en-
tirely escaped. The enmity of the savages was directed
altogether against the American population. In the xVmer-
ican Bottom, not far from where Fountain creek flows from
the bluff, three boys were attacked by six Indians in 1789.
One, David Waddle, was struck with a tomahawk in three
places and scalped, but still made his escape and recovered
from his wounds. His companions ran to the neighboring
fort and were uninjured. James Turner and John Ferrel
were killed the same year. James Dempsey was scalped
and left for dead, but recovered. In the winter of 1789-90,
a party of Osage Indians crossed the Mississippi and stole
some horses from the settlers in the American Bottom. A
party was hastily organized to pursue them toward the river
James Worley, being in advance of the others, was turned
upon, and killed and scalped by the Indians, before his
companions could come to his rescue. It is said that the
Indians cut off the head of Worley, and threw it toward the
whites as they advanced. It was seldom that the Osages,
who lived west of the Missiisippi, crossed the river to commit
depredations in Illinois.
A Baptist preacher from Kentucky, James Smith, while
journeying to the village of St. Phillips, in company with a
Frenchman and a Mrs. Huft" on the 19th of May, 1790, the
party was fired en by a band of Kickapoo Indians who were
concealed in a thicket near Bellefontaine. The horses of
the preacher and Frenchman were shot, and the woman was
wounded. Mrs. Huff was at once killed on falling into the
hands of the Indians; the Frenchman made his escape, and
Smith was taken prisoner. His saddle bags were found the
next day in a tlncket where he had thrown them at the time
of the attack. He was a large, heavy man, and the Indians
loaded him with a pack of plunder they had secured from
the settlements, and set out toward their town on the Wa-
bash. His march through the prairies, with a heavy load,
and under a hot sun, was excessively fatiguing Some of
the Indians propo.sed to kill him, and pointed their guns at
his breast. Having observed him praying and singing
hymns, they concluded that he was a good medicine man,
and held intercourse with the Great Spirit, and must not
therefore be killed. Through the agency of the French
traders at Yincennes, he was released, the people of the New
Design settlement paying one hundred and seventy dollars
for his ransom. He came back to Illinois, obtained his
saddle bags which contained valuable papers relating to the
titles of land belonging to his friends, and then returned to
Kentucky.
In May, 1791, John Demp.sey, who two years before had
been scalped by the Indians and left for dead, was again
attacked, and this time succeeded also in eftecting his escape.
A party of eight men hastened in pursuit of the Indians,
who were double the number of the whites. Captain Na-
thaniel Hull led the party, of whom the other members
were James Lemen, Joseph Ogle, Benjamin Ogle, Josiah
Kyan, William Bryson, John Porter and Daniel Raper.
The Indians were overtaken and a hot battle fought in the
timber at the Big Spring, about five miles north of the
present town of Waterloo, and a short distance east of the
St. Louis road. The fight was kept up from tree to tree, the
Indians endeavoring to escape and the whites pursuing.
Five of the Indians were killed, and not one of the whites
was injured.
In the year 179:.) a band of Kickapoo Indians stole some
horses from the Araericiin bottom near Eagle Clifi's, and an
expedition was organized to pursue the Indians. William
Whiteside was captain, and he was accompanied by Samuel
Judy, John Whiteside, Samuel Whiteside, William Harring-
ton, William L. Whiteside, John Porter, and John Dempsey.
They followed the Indian trail, passing near the site of the
present city of Belleville, towards the Indian camp on Shoal
creek. One of the party generally went before on the trail
to prevent the others from rushing int-i an ambuscade. It
was considered better that one should be killed than all the
party. They came up with the Indians on Shoal creek, and
found three of the horses grazing in the prairie. These
horses were secured, and then arrangements were made to
attack the Indian camp. Captain Whiteside divided his
force into two parties of four men each. These parties
attacked the camp from oj)posite sides at the same time, the
firing of the captain's gun being the sigual for the commence-
ment of the battle. One Indian, the son of the chief, was
killed, and several woundtd. The Indians ran off, leaving
their guns and everything else behind. The old chief, Pecon
by name, surrendered, and gave up his gun ti Whiteside.
He supposed from the bold attack that the whites were
numerous, but when he found their entire number consisted
of only eight men, he called in a loud voice for his men to
return, and at the same time attempted to wrench his gun
from Whiteside's hands. Whiteside was a large man of ex-
traordinary strength and easily retained the gun. While
the struggle was going on the whites were afraid to shoot at
HISTORY OF RAXDOLl'H, MONROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
81
the Indian lest they might kill their captain. Whiteside
would not permit his men to injure an unarmed foe, and the
chief was suffered to escape. Captain Whiteside was famous
for his prudence, as well as iiis courage, and witli the horses
they had caught, started back, and neither ate nor slept till
they reached Wliiteside's station. Hia wisdom was verified,
for the very niglit of his arrival at the station Pecon and
seventy warriors, in pursuit, camped near Cahokia. The
next year, 1794, Pecon and his band shot Thomas Whiteside
near the station, and tomahawked a son of ('aptaiu White-
side^who had wandered some distance from the fort to play.
Captain Whiteside, however, had his revenge ne.xt year.
A Frenchman of Cahokia informed him tliat a considerable
number of Indians had camped under the bluff in St. Clair
county, near where the road from Belleville to St. Louis now
pasies. Captain Whiteside gathered a company of fourteen,
among which were Samuel Whiteside, William L. White-
side, John.son J. White.-ide, Samuel Judy, and Isaac Euochs,
and attacked the cam[) ju-st before the break of day, killing
all the Indians except one who ran off, and was killed, it is
said, by the other Indians for his cowardice. For man)'
years afterward the boues of these Indians could be seen
whitening the ground. In this battle Captain Whiteside
was wounded, and he su|)posed mortally. He fell to the
ground, but still continued to exhort his men to stand their
ground and never permit an Indian to touch his body when
he was dead, as he supposed he would be in a short time.
His son, Uel, was also wounded in his arm so that he could
not use his gun. He examined his father's wound, and
found that the ball had not i)assed through the body, but
had struck a rib and glanced off toward the spiue. The bul-
let could be felt uuder the skin. Every pioneer in those
davs was a surgeon, and with his butcher-knife he cut it out,
remarking, ' Father, you arc not dead yet.' Tlie old man
jumped to his feet, and continued his fight with the Indians.
On their return to Wliiteside's station the party halted in
Cahokia, at the house of Mrs. Rains, to care for the wounded
This lady had two beautiful aud intelligent daughters, and
this accidental meeting finally led to their marriage to Uel
and William 15. Whiteside.
The most serious and dreadful tragedy that ever occurred
in the county, or, indeed, in the State, wa.3 the murder of
the wife and four children of Robert McMahan, in January,
1795, three miles southeast of the New Design station. Mc-
Mahan was a native of Virginia, from which he emigrated
to Kentucky where, at Crab Orchard, he married Margaret
Cline. In the year 1703 he came to Illinois, and settled at
New Design. In 1794 he lived in a house near the station
belonging to James Lsmeii ; he had selected a location
in the prairie, and desiring to improve a farm had moved on
the land which was part of the northeast quarter of section
nineteen, township three south, range nine west. No other
house was in sight. He made prepirations to defend him.self
and family from an attack by the Indians. He ha<l a rifle,
and only a week before the tragedy, had run two hundred
rifle balls. He also kept at the house a blunderbuss loaded
with six charges of powder aud nine balls. " When you
hear the report of mv blunderbuss," said he to his friends at
11
the station, "you may be certain that I am attacked." The
door of his house was so constructed that it might be strongly
barred, and port holes were made in the walls through which
he might shoot any oue who should attcm|)t to ascend to the
roof The murders took place ou the twenty-sixth of Jan-
uary, 179-3. On the morniug of that day McMahan went
out to hunt for his oxen, when he perceived that his horse,
which was confined in a pen, appeared to be frightened. He
cast his eye over the prairie in every direction, but saw no
enemy. A lone hickory tree, one hundred and fifty yards
from the house, had been blown down the previous fall while
in full leaf, and thus furnished a convenient hiding place for
an attacking party. Unfortunately he did not think that a
deadly enemy might be hid behind' this convenient covert.
lie entered his house but had not been indoors more than
two or three minutes, when four Indians, frightfully painted
black and red, entered the house, two by two, saying " Bon
jour I B )U jour !" (good day I g )od day I ) a salutation which
they had eviJently learned from thair intercourse with the
French. They stood motionless a few seconds, when one of
them attempted to take down McMalun's rifle from the
hooks, and McMahan took iloivii his blunderbuss; but his
wife took hold of it and begged him not to resist as she
hoped their lives might be sjiared if they submitted peace-
ably, but otherwise they would be killed. The Indians then
seized the blunderbuss, and wrenched it from liis hands.
Every oue then made for the door. Mrs. JIcMahau ran
half way around the house, when she wa-- shot in the left
breast aud scalped. McMahan was then pulled back into
the house, thrown on the floor, and his hands pinioned close
behind him, wiitli deer siue*s. .Sally McMillan, the oldest
daughter, then les-s than throeycars ol<l. remained in the house,
and saw one of the Indians knock her brother and two of her
sisters on the head with the |)ole of his tomahawk. It was
a light blow, only sufiicieut to stun them. This Indiin was
proceeding to open the cradle where lay a female infant,
only one month old, when Sally ran out of the house, and
once around it, when she was also seized b_v him. Three of
the children were scalped. The infant likewise was mur-
dered.
The Indians took from the house such articles as they
wanted, packed a part of them upon Jlcilahan, untying one
of his hands so that he might hold the load on his back.
Thev were in a great hurry to got off. Sally ilcMahan was
also taken along as a prisoner. They set out for the Indian
town iu the northeast part of Illinois. They crossed Prairie
du Long creek, not far from its mouth, and camped the
first night on Richland creek, about half a mile below the
present town of Belleville. ^IcMahan meditated an escape,
but did not make known his intention to his daughter. The
first night the Indians tied hira securely, and took away his
shoes aud hat and part of his clothes, so that he had no op-
portunity. They also tied ou him a belt, partly wrought with
porcupine (juills and small bells, so that if he stirre<l, the
bells would rattle and give the alarm. After the journey
was commenced the Indians were kind and friendly, fixing the
shoes of Sally McMahan, and making her as comfortable as
possible. The second night Mc.Nlalian quietly slipped the
82
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
cords from his limbs and body, and was about to rise, when
one of the Indians raised up his head, and looked around,
but laid down again without noticing him. When the
Indian had again gone to sleep, McMahan made his escape,
without his shoes, bat, and with but little of his clothing.
He covered some of his clothing over the belt of bells, so
that they made no noise. He slipped back to the camp, and
tried to get his shoes, or a pair of moccasins from the Indians,
but could get neither. He starced for the New Design, as
well as he could judge of the course. He was nearly fam-
ished. While with the Indians a small pittance of dried
meat had been his only food. The Indians, themselves, were
without provisions, and in an almost starving condition. He
lay out one night, making his bed of leaves under a large
fallen tree, which was held up from the ground by its
branches. His feet and elbows were partially frozen, but
with the daylight he resumed his journey He visited the
New Design settlement, but near Prairie du Rocher saw
Samuel Judy. When he reached New Design his condition
was deplorable. His clothing was torn and tattered, his
feet bruised and bleeding, and his limbs partially frozen.
His wife and children lay dead for several days before the
murder was discovered by the neighbors. A small dog,
which had been much admired and petted by McMahan's
family, came frequently to the house of James Lemen, whin-
ing, and running backyvard and forward in an unusual
manner. No one took any hint from the actions of the dog,
though the cause of its distress was plainly enough afterward
made manifest. Old Mr. Judy was the first to discover the
dead bodies, and shed tears when he told the sad story of the
murder. The neighbors went out and buried the dead all in
one grave, and on the night of the same day funeral services
were held at the house of James Lemen. At nine or ten
o'clock, just as the meeting closed MeMahan entered the
house from Prairie du Rocher. The little dog at first did
not know his master, so changed was he by his hardships and
sufferings, but the moment he looked into his face he leaped
into his lap with extravagant demonstrations of joy. The
whole assembly was profoundly aflected, and McMahan burst
into loud lamentations over the fate of his family.
After McMahan's escape the Indians traveled with their
remaining captive, Sally McMahan, to the home of tha
Putawahs, southwest of Lake Michigan. Here she was
transferred to an Ottawa Indian named Sukkonok, who had
become a chief in the Putawah tribe and whose wife was
the sister of the three who had been concerned in the
massacre. By the treaty of Greenville, following Wayne's
victory over the Indians in 1795, the Indians engaged to
bring to the white settlements all the captives in their pos-
session. In accordance with this agreement Sukkonok, in
April, 1796, brought Sally McMahan in a canoe,, down the
Illinois and Mississippi rivers to Cahokia where she was de-
livered to the white people. It was during the session of the
court, and a great many people were present. The Indian
chief made a speech in which he said that he had no hand in
the massacre and had paid a considerable sum for the captive,
and had brought her from a great distance to the white
settlements. He therefore appealed to the liberality qf the
white people to make him a just compensation. A subscrip-
tion paper was drawn up, and one hundred and sixty-four
dollars raised, which amount, in goods, was advanced to Suk-
konok by Mr. Arundel, a merchant of Cahokia. Robert
McMahan married a second wife, and raised a large family.
He lived for some years on Ralls' ridge, near Red Bud, in
Randolph county, and was justice of the peace and judge of
the Randolph county court. He afterward removed to the
vicinity of Troy, in Ridge prairie, in Madison county, where
he died in the year 1822 at the age of sixty-three. Sally,
his daughter, who was born in March, 1785, married David
Gaskill, in Ridge prairie, Madison county, where the greater
part of her life was spent. She died in the city of Alton, ou
the tweuty-lhird of January, 1850.*
EARLY MILLS.
The first water mill in the county seems to have been
Judy's mill, built a short distance east of Whiteside's
station by Jacob Judy in 1794. It was of great
service to the pioneer settlers. A few years afterward a
number of mills were built in the same neighborhood. Some
were propelled by water, and some were the old band mills.
George Valentine was the builder of a mill on a stream nearly
west of Judy's mill. On Fountain creek, west of Waterloo, an
Irishman, named Halfpenny, one of the early school teachers
in Illinois, built a water mill about the year 1795. On
Ryan's creek, between Monroe City and the bottom, a mill
was built by Josiah Ryan in the year 1798. All traces of
this mill, and that on Fountain creek, have long since dis-
appeared. Andrew Kinney was the first builder of a mill
on the site of Monroe City. It did a prosperous business in
early days, and made considerable quantities of flour for the
St. Louis and other markets. Soon after the opening of the
present century more mills were built. Two men named
Tate and Singleton built a good stone mill on Fountain
creek, a few miles southwest of Waterloo, in the year 1802.
DESTRUCTIVE HURRICANE.
The most terrific hurricane that ever swept over the county
occurred on the fifth of June, 1805 It moved from the
northwest to the southeast, and crossed the Mississippi about
a mile below the mouth of the Merrimac, passing through
the present Moredock precinct. Its track was about three-
quarters of a mile in width. It prostrated trees, and even
swept the water out of the river and the lakes in the Ameri-
can Bottom. W^illiam Blair, who had a boat moored in the
river, near the place where the storm crossed it, asserted that
for three-quarters of a mile the water was raised out of the
river by the violence of the tempest. Fish from the river
and lakes were scattered all over the prairie in its course.
It occurred about one o'clock in the afternoon. The sun
previously had been shining, and the atmosphere had been
clear. Col. James A. James, resided with his father nearly
in its course, and was an eye-witness to the terrible storm.
Reynolds' Pioneer History of the McMahan ma9s»cre
lorrect. He states that two daughters were taken
IS only one. The facts, as above narrated, .-igree with
the statements made by the daughter, Mrs. Gaskill, to George Churchill, a
careful and aocurate writer of Madison county, who prepared an account of
the affair in 18&5.
* The account given :
is, in some instances, i
prisoners, when there i
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
83
The family fled from its track. Dr. Cairnes and his family
were directly iu its course and saw it approaching, and suc-
ceeded in saving their lives A.s the Doctor and his family
were running for safety the storm overtook them. His wife
was behind, and she lay flat on the earth and held to a bush.
Kails, tree-tops and almost every movable thing were dashed
around her with great force, and she was wounded in the
head, but not fatally. The rest of the family escaped unhurt.
Dr. Cairnes' cattle came running home before the hurricane
reached the house and barn, bellowing and much terrified.
They all peri.^hed. A hors3 iu a lot near the house was
killed by a fence rail running through him. Every log in
the house and the last rock in the foundation of the chimney
were swept away. Everything movable was destroyed and
torn to pieces. A large bull was raised high in the air, and
after being carried a considerable distance, was dashed to the
ground with every bone in his carcass broken. By the time
the storm reached the Mississippi bluffs, its force was nearly
spent, and no injury was done on the hills. The clothes and
all the household furniture of Dr. Cairnes were destroyed,
and scattered far and near. One of his waistcoats was found
in the Little prairie, where his father resided, si.'i or eight
miles distant. Tops of pine trees from Missouri, which did
not grow nearer than fifty or sixty miles from the American
Bottom, could be seen. In the midst of the storm it was
very dark.
PERRY COUNTY.
The eaily settlers chose the timbered sections of the place
where they chanced to locate in preference to the open
l)rairie. ]\Iany ascribe as a reason for such choice, that
they believed the prairies were so poor that they would
not produce timber, and hepce were too barren to yield
crops for the sustenance of themselves and families. This,
however, is an error. The true reason for the selection of
homes iu the timber may be thus enumerated : First, the
pioneers put U|) their cabins where wood was plentiful for
building and fuel, and where the timber afforded shelter
from wintry blasts and the scorching sun of summer ;
secondly, in the early days the prairies were covered with a
dense growth of grass, and during the greater portion of the
year the surface was covered with water, thus preventing a
supply of that article in a wholesome state, which could be
readily obtained in the timber ; thirdly, the prairie sod was
so strong that they were unable to break it up for cultiva-
tion, owing to the primitive nature of their agricultural
implements.
The first white man to h)cate permanently iu Perry
county, of which we have any reliable data, was John Flack,
who settled in Four Mile prairie, with his family, in 1799.
He built his rude log cabin on the southwest quarter of .sec-
tion eleven, iu township six, south of range three, in what is
now a part of Pinckneyville precinct. When John Flack
came to his new home, he found but one white man in the
county. This man's name was Cox, and with his family, he
had taken up his temporary abode on claim No. 1,410, sur-
vey No. 459— the only survey or claim within the limits of
the county. The claim was located in sections seventeen
and eighteen, iu towushipsix, range two, on Bjaucoup creek ;
and also in Pinckneyville precinct. The abode of Cox,
prior to his advent to this county, or whence he removed, is
no longer known. The old pi'ineer, John Flack, left a son,
John Flack, whom the later settlers found living in the Four
Mile prairie.
B A Brown and family were among the early settlers
and neighbors of John Flack. They lived in the Six Mile
prairie; bat all traces of the family have long since been
lost. We find an entry of the west half of the northeast
quarter of section nineteen, in township six south, of range
three west, in the name of Benjamin Brown, as early as
Mf>rch 16, 1819. The next to locate permanently in the
county was the Hutchings family. In May, 181G, John afld
William Hutchings. brothers, with their families, camped
upon the banks of Beaucoup creek, in what is now Beau-
coup precinct. They were on their way from Tennessee to
Missouri, and had no intention of remaining psrmauently.
After a few days rest they pushed onward, and on reaching
Katcliff's or Sawyer's point, in Washington county, fifteen
miles distant, they abandoned their journey, and returned to
their old former camping place, where they had found game
and honey in abundance, and where the productive appear-
ance of the surrounding country had favorably impressed
them during their transient sojourn. John Hutchings'
family consisted of a wife, four children, and three slaves,
Landon Parks and Agis, his wife, and a colored woman
named Dinah. William Hutchings' family was composed of
a wife, six children, and a young woman named Dv.dilah
Jones, who afterward became the wife of John R. Hutch.
ings, his eldest son. This party of emigrants had made the
journey in old-fashioned wagons, drawn by horses, and com-
prisec" eighteen persons iu all. The Hutchings were natives
of North Carolina, where they married. John Hutchings
built his first cabin on the northwest quarter of section uiue-
teen, in township four south, of range two, which he entered
July 2-5, 1817. He sub.sequently built a two story frame
house near his cabin. This was known for many years as
the " Travelers' Inn." William Hutchings built his first
house in the south edge of the prairie, which took his name.
Here he resided until 1819, on what is now known as the
Watson place, and died in 1820. The Hutchings family
were prominent and useful citizens, and the eldest son of
William, John K. Hutchings, was one of the earliest
teachers and Baptist ministers. He was also one of the
commissioners chosen to se'ect the site of Piuckneyville, and
held many of the county offices, among the number that of
judge. Wesley W. Hutchings, born at the pioneer home, on
the 4th of October, 1822, is the only survivor of William
Hutchings' family, and now resides in the Three Mile prai-
rie, Washington county, this state. Mrs. Mary Ivice, widow
of Hiram Kicp, and daughter of John Hu'chings, is the only
survivor of the eighteen pioneers, and was but five years old
when brought to the territory by her father iu May, 1816.
The nearest trading points at the time of the settlement by
the Hutchings, were Kaskaskia and St. Louis, and the only
articles of trade were deerskins, honey and beeswax, which
84
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
were exchanged for such necessaries as were required. John
Huggius, who was au early settler of Cutler, came to Illinois
in 1802. He yet lives in section tweuty-one, and is a native
of South Carolina.
The first to seek a home within the limits of what is now
Du Quoin precinct, was Jarrold Jackson, who exacted a toll
from travelers for crossing a bridge over Little Muddy, in
1803, on the road leading from Shawneetown to Kaskaskia.
Thomas Taylor, a native of South Carolina, came into this
precinct =n 1812, from Jackson county, to which place he
had emigiated in 1803. Lewis Wells, also a native of South
Carolina, an old neighbor of Taylor, and one of the early
county commissioners, moved to Jackson county in 1804 ;
and fjom there came with Taylor, to what is now Perry
counly, in 1812. Mr. Wells resided in Du Quoin precinct
until 1846, the yeflr of his death. He had reached the ripe
age of ninety-six years. John Campbell, who, at his death,
left his children, John, Washington, Isaac, Alexander and
Charles living in the precinct, came from Tennessee in 18] 2,
and gettlrd in the neighborhood of Wells and Taylor. In
1815, Tamaroa precinct received its first permanent resident
in the person of the parents of Edward T. Rees. They
settled near a water course, now known as Rees' creek.
Edwaid T. Rees has been honored with the responsible
position of County Judge, by his fellow gitizens.
Du Quoin precin"t received within its borders as perma-
nent citizens, in 1816, Hiram Root and Ephraim Skinner
and their families. They were natives of New York. Mr.
Skinner lived but four years after their arrival.
Simon Wiiliard and family settled in the southwest in 1817.
He located on section two, township six south, range four;
and when the land came into market, he entered it January
19, 1819. There were 504.60 acres in the tract. His
neighbor, James Craine, improved and made his hoae
on the nrrthcast quarter of section thirteen, township
six ran we four. Mr. Craine entered this tract in the
land office in Kaskaskia, May 14, 1818. Benjamin Brown
was also a neighbor in 1817. His home was on the west
half of the southeast quarter of section eleven of the same
township. Richard Green, Robert Crow and Robert John-
son with their families, were living in the neighborhood.
William H. Threlkel, Jacob Short and John Stuart were
also residents of this section, and their names are intimately
interwoven in the earlier civil history of the county as
men of unqucsliontd honesty and ability. They were
natives of New York, Tennessee, and Kentucky. Stephen
Kelly was also a pioneer of this neighborhood. The Pyle
family, whose names appear prominently in the civil history
of the county, in pioneer days, and many of whose descend-
ants are now respected citizens of the county, came to what
is now Du Quoin precinct, from Tennessee, in 1819. There
were three brothers, John, William and Abner, all men with
families of well-grown children. Grand Cote received its
first settler in 1819. Thomas Swanwick, a native of
Chester, England, entered the northwest quarter, and the
east half of the southwest quarter of section eleven in town-
ship four south of r nge four, on the thirteenth day of
February, 1818. The land entered by this old pioneer is
now occupied by his son, Joel J. Swanwick, now past the
meridian of life. James McMurdo came with Mr. Swan-
wick, and now resides in Randolph county. The next ac-
cession to the settlement of Grand Cote, was Wil'iam P.
Elliott, who came from Georgia in 1820. He located on
the twentieth section, built his cabin, and in the spring of
1821, brought his family to his new home. He was an en-
terprising citizen, and was the first to operate a mill in this
section of the county. He built a tug or band mill as early
as 1822. The burrs were made from boulders picked up on
the prairie.
In 1822, Shadrach Lively made an improvement in the
southwest corner of Holt's Prairie. Between the years
1820 and 1830, Du Quoin precinct received a large number
of settlers, among whom were Robrrt McElvain, Rodney
Bolin and others. The widow of Rodney Bjlin died a few
years since, being past ninety years of age. In this decade,
Daniel Dry, the first county treasurer, after the organization
of the county, arrived iu Du Quoin precinct. It is said
that Mr. Dry, in company with his wife, made the entire
journey from Pennsylvania, on foot, bringing his entire
worldly wealth in an old barrel, mounted on two wheels.
This improvised cart he propelled before him as he trudged
on his wearisome way in search of a home in the western
wilds. He spent the remainder of his days in the county,
leaving behind him an unsullied reputation, and a large
number of descendants, who have kept the family name un-
tarnished. David H. Mead was also a pioneer of the same
neighborhood. His name appears prominently in the civil
history of ihe county. In the year 1824, Du Quoin re-
ceived other permanent and enterprising settlers in the per-
sons of Zachariah Clinton, Green Durriugton and Micajah
Phelps, all with familifs, who came direct from their
homes in Kentucky. Also, Dr. Joseph Brayshaw, an En-
glishman ; Avery Chapman and Joshua Davis, who settled
upon what is now the site of Old Du Quoin. Cutler pre-
cinct was colonized in 1825, by a band of sturdy pioneers,
who made permanent settlements. They were natives of
Smith county, Tennessee. Enoch Eaton, who still lives upon
his old homestead, the northeast quarter of section- twenty-
four, in township five south, range four, was the first of the
company to arrive with his wife and two children. Oneofhis
sons, R H. Eaton, is now a resident of Pinckneyville. He
made the journey with the old-fashioned wagon, drawn by
horses. He was soon followed by his father, who brought his
family in a cart drawn by a bull. With Eaton, Sr , came
John Murphy, father of Robert, James, Richard G., and
William C, all of whom came with their iiUher and were
prominent in the early histoty of the county. Hon. Wil-
liam K. Murphy, of Pinckneyville is a grandson of this
pioneer, Richard Green and family of New York ; Hugh
Brown from South Carolina; Matthew Vann of Tennessee;
Andrew Cooper of South Carolina were among Enoch
Eaton's first and early neighbors. James Brown, also a
native of South Carolina, settled near Galum as early as
1825. The next accession to Grand Cote was Jonathan
Petit, who came from the " Irish settlement " in Randolph
County, in the spring of 1825. He settled on section thirty
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
85
of township four south, of rauge four. In the same fall, he
disposed of his improvement to Absalom Wilson of Wash
ington County, Virginia. Sir. Wilson did not occup)' his
new house, however, until 1840. George Cherry from the
Chester District, South Carolina, also came into Grand
Cote the same year, and settled on section five, where he
continued to reside until his death, which occurred in
March, 1857.
The year 1826 brought so many permanent settlers into
the territory now comprising the county, that toward the close
of the year the necessary steps were taken to secure the organi-
zation of the county. Among the number who took up their
abode within its limits were : David Deal, a native of Ten-
nessee. He brought a wife and family of six children, two
sons and four daughters ; two of the latter are now residents
of Franklin county, this .state, the rest being dead. He
built his humble cabin on section twenty-eight. He subse-
quently purchased the improvement of David Rees, who had
made his appearance about the same time as Mr. Deal, and
had built his cabin on section twenty-one. After purchas-
ing Jlr. Rees' improvement, Mr. Deal entered the land.
Abraham Jlorgan and family made themselves houses in
what is now Taniaroa precinct, as early as 182G. They
lived upon, and were the first occupants of what is now
known as the Samuel Benson place; and there entered the
southwest quarter of the northeast quarter of section
eighteen of township four south, range one west.
Fiyckneyville precinct received numerous accessions in
1826. Among the number were Ephraim Bilderback and
Charles Garner, who came from Randolph county and
settled in the southwestern portion of the Four-mile prairie,
in the spring of that year. Matthew Jones settled on the
west side of Holt's Prairie in 1826. John Hazzard and
John Berry came with Jones and made themselves houses
in the same prairie. All were natives of Tennessee. Abner
Flack, a native of South Carolina, took up his abode in the
Four-mile prairie the same year; and George Franklin
made his house, one-half mile south of the present site of
Piuckneyville at the tame time. The year 1827, brought
with it some of the pioneers, whose names are interwoven
inseparably with the early political history of the county.
Chief among the number was Humphrey B. Jones. Mr.
Jones was a native of Kentucky and first came to Jackson
county, Illinois, ia 1821. There he continued to reside
until the twenty-first daj' of April, li-27, when he changed
his residence to the new county of Perry. His first house
was in Pinckueyville, near the site of the "old spring."
Among his surviving children is the wife of Charles H. Roe,
the efficient Circuit Clerk of the county. Mr. Jones held
many of the official positions in the county, as will be seen
by a reference to the civil chapter. He was a scholarly
gentleman, an able lawyer and successful physician. He
died at his home in Piuckneyville, his aged wife following
but a few years since. Fergus Milligan, another of the
more prominent early settlers, first came to the county in
1827. He was a native of Iredell county. North Carolina,
and arrived in the .spring, first settling the land now known
as the Harmony place, three miks northwest of Pinckney"
ville. When he came to the county, his family cons'sted of
a wife and nine children. Not being satisfied with the
selection first made, in the fall of the same year, he removed
to Four-mile prairie, and seltctid a house on the southwest
quarter of the southeast quarter of section eleven, township
six south, of range three, and there died some years since.
Afton Crawford settled in the south end of the Four-mile
prairie, in 1827, and improved what is now known as the
'' old Bill Murphy " place. Jonathan Petit, from Randolph
county, improved what is now the county poor farm, as
early as 1827.
The population of Tamaroa precinct was largely increased
in 1828. Nathan G. Curlee, one of the pioneer local
preachers, found a home on section seventeen of township
four, rauge one. The first neighbor of Mr. Curlee was
Benjamin Hammack, who brought his family, and selected
a portion of section seventeen, township four, range one, as
hid home. Mr. Hammack was a native of Virginia, but
came to Perry from Jackson county. His family consisted
of a wife and four children. Lewis Hammack, a prominent
lawyer of Pinckueyville, is a son. Immediately following
Mr. Hammack came Stephen Brown, who settled on the
same section.
Paradise precinct received as pioneers in 1828, Edward,
Minyard i\nd Robert Gilliam, brothers, with their families
from Bradford county, Tennessee. The prairie in which
they settled now bears their name. The two first named
died in the precinct and Robert in Te.xas. James Jones, a
brother of William Jones who first came into the township
in 1827, and bought the claim of a settler nan)ed Alexander
Clark, arrived from Tenne.ssee with a wife and family of
several children in 1828. With James Jones came an old
Tennessee neighbor, by the name of John M. Haggard, who
came along to see the country. Being well pleased he
immediately returned to his old home and brought out his
fomily — a wife and child. To the little settlement of Grand
Cote was added in 1828, James Kirkpatrick and family of
South Carolina, » ho made their home on section nine.
Among the number of pioneers of 1^28, settling in Pinck-
ueyville, \vere James Steele, who settled in the Four-mile
prairie; and William Craig who found a home in the
immediate vicinity. Joshua M Rice, a native of Tennessee
arrived in 1829. and settled in Hutchings' prairie, where he
raised one crop ; and changed his home to township four
the following year. Peyfam Brown was also a settler in the
immediate neighborhood the same year. Among the
numerous accessions to the county from the years 1829 to
1838 inclusive, were Reuben Kelly and Isaac McCollum, of
Paradise; the Blands of Taniaroa; John White, Robert H.
Allen, William M. .\dair, Hugh Cooper, Alexander Crsig,
William Jvainey, Benjamin Ragland, Solomon Maxwell,
John jNIcMillen, John Hughey, Newton FiankKn ib\
Joel Rushing, all in Grand Cote. The last named, Joel
Rushing, was a native of Anson County, North Carolina,
and while a mere boy was taken to Bedford County, Ten-
nessee. Here he grew to manhood, found a wife in the
person of Miss Susannah Hale, and came to Pcriy County
in December, 18.38; and bought one hundred and twenty
86
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
acres of land from James McMillan's father. Evan B.
Rushing, one of the leading lawyers of the Perry county
bar, is a son of this pioneer. Jeremiah Dennis, Jacob
Walker; Campbell Stuart, James Meadows and Edmund
Hodges sought homes in Beaucoup precinct during this
period. Among the earliest pioneers who attained deserved
political prominence was Hawkins S. O^burn, who ably
represented his people in the General Assembly of the
state, both in the House and Senate. He was a lover of
fine horses, accumulated a handsome property and died a
few years ago at a ripe old age. His sou, Thomas Osburn,
now lives upon the old homestead, and is said to be a
counterpart of his honored father.
We have thus briefly sketched the early pioneer history
of the county ; and the reader desirous of obtaining a more
extended history of those named in this chapter, or whose
names do not appear, will find what they seek in the
several precinct histories.
MANNERS AND CUSTOMS OF THE AMERICAN PIONEERS.
The early American settlers were principally from the
Southern States of Virginia, Kentucky and Tennessee.
Some came from Pennsylvania and Maryland. A New
England emigrant was rare. Their sense of independence
was one of the marked traits of their character. By the
necessities of their situation they were forced into singular
and different employments. They were compelled to act as
mechanics, to make their plows, harness and other farming
implements, to tan their leather, to hunt game, while at the
signal of danger they unhitched their horses from the plow,
and were ready to march to any part of the territory in
defence of their homes.
While the majority of settlers were without means, pov-
erty carried with it no crushing sense of degradation like
that felt by the very poor of our day. They lived, it is
true, in a cabin, but it was their own, and had been reared
by their own hands. Their house, too, while inconvenient
and far from water-proof, was built in the prevailing style
of architecture, and would compare favorably with the
homes of their neighbors. They were destitute of many of
the conveniences of life, and of some things that are now
considered necessaries ; but they patiently endured their lot
and hopefully looked forward to better. They had plenty
to wear as protection against the weather, and an abundance
of ivholesome food. They sat down to a rude table to eat
from tin or pewter dishes ; but the meat thereon spread —
the flesh of the deer or bear ; of the wild duck or turkey ;
of the quail or squirrel — was superior to that we eat, and
had been won by the skill of the head o*' the house or of
that of his vigorous sous. The bread they ate was made
from corn or wheat of their own raising. They walked the
green carpet of the grand prairie or forest that surrounded
them, not with the air of a beggar, but with the elastic step
of a self-respected freeman.
The settler brought with him the keen axe, which was
indispensable, and the equally necessary rifle ; the first his
weapon of offence against the forests that skiited the water-
courses, and near which he made his home ; the second that
of defence from the attacks of his foe, the cunning child of
the forest and prairie.
The manner of building was as follows : First, large logs
were laid in position as sills ; on these were placed strong
sleepers, and on the sleepers were laid the rough-hewed
puncheons, which were to serve as floors. The logs were
then built up till the proper height for the eaves was
reached ; then on the ends of the building were placed poles,
longer than the other end-logs, which projected some
eighteen or more inches over the sides, and were called
" butting-pole sleepers ;" on the projecting ends of these
was placed the " butting-pole," which served to give the
line to the first row of clap-boards. These were, as a
matter of course, split, and as the gables of the cabin were
built up, were so laid on as to lap a third of their length.
They were often kept in place by the weight of a heavy
pole, which was laid across the roof parallel to the ridge-
pole. The house was then chinked, and daubed with a
coarse mortar.
A huge fire-place was built at one end of the house, in
which fire was kindled for cooking purposes, for the settlers
were generally without stoves, with which to furnish the
needed warmth in winter. The ceiling above was some-
times covered with the pelts of the raccoon, opossum, and
of the wolf, to add to the warmth of the dwelling. Some-
times the soft inner bark of the bags wood was used for the
same purpose. The cabin was lighted by means of greased
paper-windows. A log would be left out along one side, and
sheets of strong paper, well greased with coon-grecse or
bear oil, would be carefully tacked in.
The above description only applies to the very earliest
times, before the rattle of the saw-mill was heard within our
borders.
The furniture comported admirably with the house itself,
and hence, if not elegant, was in most perfect taste. The
tables had four legs, and were rudely made from a puncheon.
Their seats were stools having three or four legs. The bed-
stead was in keeping with the rest, and was often so
contrived as to permit it to be drawn up and fastened to the
wall during the day, thus attbrding more room to the
family. The entire furniture was simple, and was framed
with no other tools than an axe and auger. Each was his
own carpenter; and some displayed considerable ingenuity
in the construction of implements of agriculture, and
utensils, and furniture for the kitchen and house. Knives
and forks they sometimes had, and sometimes had not The
common table knife was the pack knife or butcher-knife.
Horse collars were sometimes made of the plaited husk of
the maize sewed together. They were easy on the neck of
the horse, and if tug-traces were used, would last a long
while.
The common dress of the American pioneer was very
similar. Home-made wool hats were usually worn. The
covering of the feet were, in winter, mostly moccasins made
of deer skin and shoe-packs of tanned leather. In the
summer, the greater portion of the young people, male and
female, and many of the old, went bare-footed. The sub-
stantial and universal wear was the blue linsey hunting-
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY' COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
87
shirt. Gov. Reynolds says that this was a most excellent
garment, and that he never felt so healthy and happy after
layicig it off. Many pioneers wore the white blanket coat
(the French rupot) in the winter. These were made loose
with a cap or cape to turn over the head in extreme cold
weather. The vest was mostly made of striped linsey. The
coliirs were made with alum, copperas and madder, boiled
with the bark of trees in such manner and proportions as
the old ladies prescribed. The shirts worn by the Americans
were generally horn? made, of flax and cotton material.
Some voyagtrs and hunters among the Americans wore
calico and checked shirts, but these were not in common
use. The pantaloons of the masses were generally deer-
skins and linsey, and sometimes a coarse blue cloth was
used. In early times factory made goods did not exi.st.
These goods, from New England and Kentucky, reached
Illinois about the year 1818, and then looms and spinning
ceased. Every pioneer had a rifle and carried it almo.'it
wherever he went. On the Sabbath a stack of rifles might
be seen outside the house of worship while within the
congregation were attending service. Almost everybody
was a hunter, and a deer was as likely to be seen on Sunday
as on any other day of the week. Neat and fine linsey,
manufactured at home and colored and woven to suit the
fancy, composed the outside garments of the females. A
bonnet of calico or some gayly-checked goods, was worn on
the head, in the open air. Jewelry was unusual. A gold
ring was an ornament not often seen.
The style of dress began to change about the year 1820.
The blue linsey hunting-shirt with red or whit^ fringe gave
place to the cloth coat. Boots and shoes supplanted the
deer skin moccasin. By the year 1830 a man dressed in
the costume of the territory, raccoon-skin cap, hunting-
shirt, buckskin breeches and moccasins, with a belt around
the waist to which a knife and tomahawk were appended,
was rarely to be seen. The female sex made still more
rajjid progress in adopting modern costumes.
The pioneers were exceedingly friendly and sociable. A
new comer was heartily welcomed. When a log cabin was
to be raised, whether invited or not, they gathered together
and enjoyed a backwoods frolic in putting it up. At these
house-raisings much sport and amusement were indulged in.
The young men and boys tried their strength and skill at
jumping, wresiling, and running foot-races. Old and young
took part in the game of leap frog. Shooting at marks was
practiced among those most skilled in the use of the rifle.
Among a group of older men would figure a Kentuckian
relating his adventures on flat-boats, " the old Broad Horn,"
to New Orleans. At times, a bottle, called " Black Betty,"
filled with Monongahela whiskey, made its appearance, and
then was told the "hair-breadth escapes" and thrilling
adventures of the pioneers. A log-rolling, corn husking, or
bee ( f any kind, called the settlers together for miles around.
The whole neighborhood assembled and split rails, cleartd
land, plowed up whole fields, and the like. Pioneer amuse-
ment generally clo.sed the day. With the invitation to the men
commonly came one to the women, to come to a quilting.
The good woman of the house where the festivities were to
take place, would be busily engaged for a day or more in
preparation for the coming guests. Great quantities of
provisions were to be prepared, for dyspepsia was unknown
to the pioneer, and good appetites were the rule and not the
exception.
"The bread used at these frolics was baked generally on
Jonny or Jouniiij cake-boards, and is the best corn-bread
ever made. A board is made smooth, about two feet long,
and eight inches wide — the ends are generally rounded.
The dough is spread out on this board, and placed haning
before the fire. One side is baked, and then the dough is
changed on the board, so the other side is prcfeented, in its
turn, to the fire. This is Joiiiii/-cake, and is good, if the
proper materials are put in the dough, an<l it is properly
baked." — ReynnUlf' Pioneer Hidury.
At all logrollings and house raisings it was customary to
provide liquor. Excesses were not indulged in, however.
The fiddler was never forgotten. After the day's work had
been accomplished, out doors and in, by men and women,
the floor was cleared and the merry dance began. The
handsome, stalwart young men, whose fine forms were the
result of their manly out door life, clad in fringed buckskin
breeches and gaudily colored hunting-shirts, led forth the
bright-eyed, buxom damsels, attired in neatly-fitling- linsey-
woolsey garments, to the dance, their cheeks glowing with
health and eyes speaking of enjoyment, and perhaps a
tenderer emotion.
The following description of a "Shucking " of the oldea
time is taken from Reynolds' Pioneer History of Illinois:
" In pure pioneer times the crops of corn were never
husked on the stalk, as is done at this day; but were hauled
home in the hu.'-k and thrown in a heap, generally by the
side of the crib, so that the ears, when husked, could be
thrown direct into the crib. The whole neighborhood, male
and female, were invited to the slmelrimj, as it was called.
The girls, and many of the married ladies, generally
engaged in this amusing work.
'• In the first place two leading expert buskers were
chosen as captains, and the heap of corn divided as nearly
equal as possible. Rails were laid across the pile so as to
designate the division ; and then each captain chose, alter-
nately, his corps of buskers, male and female. The whole
number of working hands present were selected, on one side
or the other, and then each party commenced a contest to
beat the other, which was in many cases truly exciting.
One other rule was, that whenever a male husked a red ear
of corn, he was entitled to a ki.s from the girls This
frequently excited much fuss and scuffling, which was
intended by both parties to end in a kiss. It was a
universal practice that iaffia or Jlonongahela whiskey was
used at these husking frolics, which they drank out of a
bottle, each one, male and female, taking the bottle and
drinking out of it, and then handing it to his next neighbor,
without using any glass or cup whatever. This custom was
common, and not considered rude. Almost always these
corn-shucks ended in a dance. To prepare for this amuse-
nunt fiddles and fidillers were in great demand; and it
often required much fast riding to obtain them. One violin
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
and a performer were all that was conteraplated at these
innocent rural games.
" Towards dark, and the supper ladf over, then it was that
a bustle and confusion commenced. The confusion of tongues
at Babel would have been ashamed at the corn-huskings.
The young ones hurrying off the table, and the old ones
contending for time and order. It was the case, nine
times out of ten, that but one dwelling-house was on the
premises, and that was used for eating as well as dancing.
" But wlien the fiddler commenced tuning his instrument,
the music always gained the victory for the young side.
Then the dislies, victuals, table and all, disappeared in a
few minutes, and the room was cleared, the dogs driven out,
and the floor swept off ready for action. The floors of these
houses were sometimes the natural earth, beat solid, some-
times the earth, with puncheons in the middle over the po-
tato-hole, and at times the whole floor was made of pun-
cheons.
" The music at these country dances made the young folks
almost frantic, and sometimes much excitement was dis-
played to get on the floor first. Generally the fiddler on
these occasions assumed an important bearing, and ordered,
in true professional style, so and so to be done ; as that was
the way in North Carolina, where he was raised. The de-
cision ended the contest for the floor. In those days they
danced jigs and four-handed reels, as they were called.
Sometimes three-handed reels were also danced.
" In these dances there was no standing still ; all were
moving at a rapid pjce from the beginning to the end. In
the jigs the by-standers cut one another out, as it was called,
so that this dance would last fur hours. Sometimes the par-
ties in a jig tried to tire one another down in the dance, and
then it would also last a long time before one or the other
gave up.
"The cotillion or stand-dill dances were not then known.
"The bottle went around at these parties as it did at the
shuckings, and male and female took a dram out of it as it
passed round No sitting was indulged in, and the folks
either stood or danced all night, as generally daylight ended
the frolic. The dress of these hardy pioneers was generally
in plain homespun. The hunting-shirt was much worn at
that time, which is a convenient working or dancing dress.
Sometimes drassed deer-skin pantaloons were used on these
occasions, and mawkaAsins — rarely shoes — and at times
bare feet were indulged in.
"In the morning all go home on horseback or on foot.
No carriages, wagons or other vehicles were used on these
occasions, for the best of reasons — because they had none."
Reynolds states it as his sincere conviction that the early
pioneers of Illinois were more moral and free from crime
than the people of a later day. Thefts were of rare occur-
rence, and forgery, perjury, and similar crimes were seldom
perpetrated. A white man was hung for murder in Kas-
kaskia in the year 1802, and an Indian in lb04 ; no further
instance of capital puni-hment in Illinois occurs till 1821,
when Bennett was hung at Belleville for the murder of Stu-
art. In the early history of the county, the courts were in
session four times each year at Cahokia, but the grand ju-
ries frequently adjourned without finding a single indict-
ment. While the higher crimes were of rare occurrence,
the lesser violations of law were not unfrequent.
The use of into.xicating li(]Uors was indulged in then more
than now. Drinking was fashionable and polite, and liquor
was considered an elemeut in the conviviality of all circles.
The French seldom carried the use of liquor to excess, In-
temperance, on the part of the Americans, was greatest in
the village of Cahokia and there, as also at Kaskaskia,
many good citizens were injured by the excessive use of
ardent spirits.
The Sabbath, among the American pioneers, was often
employed in hunting, fishing, getting up stock, hunting bees,
breaking young horses, shooting at marks, and horse and
foot-racing It was, however, a custom to cease from ordinary
labor, except from necessity, on that day, and when a far-
mer cut his harvest on Sunday, public opinion condemned it
more severely than at present. There was no dancing, and
but little drinking. In many localities there were no reli-
gious meetings. The aged people generally remained at
home and read the Bible and other books. The French ob-
served Sunday in a different manner. After the conclusion
of their religious service?, the rest of the day was passed in
amusements, merriment and recreation. Dancing was com-
mon on the Sabbath, and frequently houses were raised and
the militia trained. Public sales of land and Other property
were held, in early times, by the French at the church door
on Sundays, after the close of the service. The French
rarely engaged in common broils and disturbances. They
detested a quarrelsome, fighting man. With the Ameri-
cans personal combats were frequent. A slight dispute led
to a fight ; but the combatants often good-humoredly made
it up before parting. These combats scarcely ever occurred
unLss the parties had been drinking. No rules were ob-
served. At times eyes and ears were much injured, and were
sometimes destroyed.
All species of gaming were commim. Card-playing was
sustained by the best classes. A person who could not,
or would not, play cards, was considered destitute of one of
the accomplishments of genteel society. The French delighted
much in this amusement, and thus assisted in giving card-
parties more standing and popularity among the Americans.
During the hot summer months, in early times, the French
played cards incessantly in the shade of the galleries of their
houses. They frequently played without betting, but at
times wagered heavily. The most common game of cards
was called "loo." The voyageurs indulged in this sport
more than any other class of citizens. The ladies often
amused themselves at the game.
Horse racing was one of the most popular amusements.
The quarter races were the most common, and at these the
most chicanery and juggling was practiced. The most
celebrated and famous horse-race in Illinois, in early times,
was run in the upper end of the Horse prairie, in Kandolph
county, in the spring of the year 1803. The two horses
which made the race were of the same size. They ran three
miles and repeat, for a wager of five hundred dollars. The
bye-bets and all must have amounted to a thousand dollars.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
89
or more, which in those days was considered a very large
sum. In 1806 Robert Pulliam, of Illinois, and a Mr. Mu-
sick, of Missouri, made a bet of two hundred dollars on a
race between two horses, of a quarter of a mile, to be run on
the ice in the Mississippi river, a short distance above St.
Louis. The race came off, and was ran without injury to
either the horses or riders. Foot-racing, jumj)iug and
wrestling were much practiced by the Americans. Bets of
some magnitude were made on foot-races as well as horse-
races. Governor Reynolds, in his youth, was one of the best
in a foot-race, and won many wagers in Randolph county,
then his residence.
With the Americans shooting-matches occurred frequently.
These were generally held on (Saturdays, and as often as
every week, in summer. A beef was usually the prize. A
keg of wiiiskey was generally carried to these shooting-
matches, on horseback, and sometimes a violin made its
appearance, and the crowd d.iuced for hours. Aged matrons
frequently attended, with a neat, clean keg of metheglin,
which they dirpensed to the thirsty. This drink was made
of honey and water, properly fermented, was pleasant to the
taste, and had no power to intoxicate. The old lady some-
times brought her knitting and sewing with her, and would
frequently relate tales of the tories '' back iu North Caro-
lina," during the Revolution.
Agriculturf was at first, of course, carried on only to a
limited extent. The inhabitants of the New Design settle-
ment were the first to begin, about the year 1800, the culti-
vation of fall wheat to an)' considerable extent. In cutting
the wheat, sickles, or reap-hooks, were the only implements
used. There were no cradles. Reaping with a sickle was a
severe labor. Wheat at that day sold for one dollar a bushel.
A short distance from the farms, on the prairies, or in places
in the timber, patches of grass were selected and mowed,
and this, as well as reaping wheat, was hot, hard work.
The Americans at that day, generally stacked their hay and
wheat out, but the French had barns which they Ured for
this purpose. The French barns were made of large cedar
posts, put in the ground some two feet, and set apart four
or five feet — the space between filled up with puncheons put
in grooves on the posts, and the whole covered with a
thatched rotf. Threshing and cleaning the wheat wsis in
olden times a great trouble. The process of winnowing with
a sheet was slow and hard work.
Considerable quantities of corn were shipped from Illinois
in flat-boats to New Orleans before the purchase of
Louisiana. It was an uncertain market, and the navigation
of the river was more uncertain still. Stock, cattle and hogs
were raised for the New Orleans market The commerce
on the river and the Indian trade consumed the small
surplus product of the farms. Irish potatoes were raised
in abundance, and the crops scarcely ever failed. Only
small quantities of cheese and butter were made, scarcely
enough for home consumption. The French scarcely ever
troubled themselves with milking cows, but turned the
calves out with the other cattle, and made little or no
butter. That portion of the population .scarcely ever used
a ohurn, a loom, or a wheel. The apple orchards in propor-
12
tion to the population were numerous. The French also
cultivated orchards of pears, but the peach-tree was entirely
neglected. The greater portion of the merchants made the
Indian trade their main object. The furs and peltries were
articles in great demand, and were generally shipped to
Mackinaw, i'hiladelphia, and New Orleans. The French
horses, known as " French ponies," were sold in great num-
bers to the Indians. Guns, powder, lead, and all Indian
goods, blankets, blue strouding and made-up calico shirts,
formed large items in the commerce of the day — as the
Indians were much more numerous than the whites.
CHAPTER VIII.
CIVIL IIISTOI}Y FROM 177S TO lsl«.
SJ^'
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
OON after the capture of the British mili-
tary posts north of the Ohio river by
George Rogers Clark in 1778, the au-
thorities of Virginia, in whose name
Clark had made his conquests, effected
arrangements for the organization [of
a civil government of the newly acquired
territory. The General Assembly of
Virginia, in October, 1778, passed "an
Act for establishing the County uf Illitwis and for the more
eflTectual protection and defense thereof." That County of
Illinois "embraced all that territory out of which in subse-
quent years were formed the States of Ohio Indiana, Illinois,
Michigan and Wisconsin. The State of Virginia, then in
its infancy, and with the twelve sister States engaged in the
terrible struggle for independence, hastened to provide a gov-
ernment for this immense territory, and selected the ancient
French village of Kaskaskia as the seat for such govern-
ment. The Act mentioned above authorized the governor
to appoint a County-Lieutenant or commandant, who could
appoint and commission deputy commandants, militia offi-
cers and commissaries. The religion and customs of the
inhabitants were to be respected and all civil officers were
to be chosen by the people of the respective districts. The
County Lieutenant had power to pardon all offenders, ex-
cept murderers and traitors. The governor was authorized
to levy 500 men to garrison and protect the county, and
keep up communication with Virginia and with the settle-
ments on the Spanish (West) side and to take measures to
supply goods to the inhabitants and friendly Indians.
Patrick Henry, the honortd patriot, was then governor of
Virginia: he selected his friend, John Todd, for the diffi-
cult and responsible position of County-Lieutenant on the
12th of December, 1778. The letter of appointment was
dated at Williamsburg, then the cai)itol of Old Virginia.
It is spread in full on the first five pages of Todd's Record
Book, signed by Patrick Henry himself This Record-
Book was found among a number of documents removed from
Kaskaskia to Chester in 1847, aud is now in possession of
90
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
the Historical Society of Chicago. Robert G. Detrick,
Esq., of Chester, tooii the precaution of making a complete
copy of the contents of said record-book, before placing it
in the custody of said Society, and to him the writer is
indebted for ihe following complete abstract, to wit:
" P.iTEicK Henry's Letter to John Todd, Esq.
Williamsburg, December 12, 1778.
To John Todd, Esq :
By virtue of the act of the General Assembly which
established the county of Illinois you are appointed County-
Lieutenant or commandant there, and for the general ten-
nour of your conduct I refer you to the law.
The grand objects which are disclosed to the view of your
countrymen will prove beneficial or otherwise according to
the value and abilities of those who are caljed to direct the
affairs of that remote country. The present crisis rendered
80 favorable by the good disposition of tlie French and
Indians may be improved to great purposes, but if unhap-
pily it should be lost, a return of the .same attachment to us
may never happen ; considering therefore that early preju-
dices are so hard to wear out you will take care to cultivate
the affections of the French and Indians.
Although great reliance is placed on your prudence in
managing the people you are to reside among, yet consider-
ing you as unacquainted in some degree with their genius,
usages and manners as well as the geography of the country,
I commend it to you to consult and advise with the most
intelligent and upright persons who may fall in your way.
You are to give particular attention to Colonel Clark
and his corps, to whom the State has great obligations. You
are to cooperate with him on any military undertaking when
necessary, and to give the military every aid which the cir-
cumstance of the people will admit of. The inhabitants of
the Illinois must not expect settled peace and safety while
their and our enemies have footing at Detroit and can inter-
cept or stop the trade of the Mississippi. If the English
have not the strength or courage to come to war against us
themselves, their practice has been and will be to hire the
savages to commit murders and depredations. Illinois must
expect to pay in these a large price for her freedom, unless
the English can be expelled from Detroit. The means of
effecting this will not perhaps be found in your or Colonel
Clark's power, but the French inhabiting the neighborhood
of that place, it is presumed, may be brought to see it done
with indifference or perhaps join in the enterprise with
pleasure. This is but conjecture. When you are on the
spot you and Col. Clark may discover its fallacy or reality, if
the former appears. Defense only is to be the object of the
latter or a good prospect of it. I hope the Frenchmen and
Indians at your disposal will show a zeal for the affairs
equal to the benefits to be derived from establishing liberty
and permanent peace.
One great good expected from holding the Illinois is to
overawe the Indians from warring on our settlers on this
side of the Ohio; a close attention to the disposition, char-
acter and movements of the hostile tribes is therefore neces-
sary for you. The forces and militia at Illinois, by being
placed on the back of them, may inflict timely chastisement
on these enemies, whose towns are an easy prey in absence
of their warriors.
You perceive by these hints that something in the military
line from you, so far as the occasion calls for assistance of
the people composing the militia, it will be necessary to
cooperate with the troops sent from here, and I know of no
better general direction to give than this, that you consider
yourself at the head of the civil department, and as such
having the command of the militia, who are not to be under
the command of the military until ordered out by the civil
authority and to act in conjunction with them.
You are on all occasions to inculcate on the people the
value of liberty, and the difference between the state of free
citizens of this commonwealth and that slavery to which the
Illinois was destined. A free and equal representation may
be expected by them in a little time, together with all the
improvements in jurisprudence and police which the other
parts of the State enjoy.
It is necessary for the happiness, increase and prosperity
of that country that the grievances that obstruct these
blessings be known in order to their removal ; let it, there-
fore, be your care to obtain information on that subject that
proper plans may be formed for the general utility. Let it
be your constant attention to see that the inhabiiants have
justice administered to them for any injury rec'd from the
troops ; the omission of this may be fatal. Col. Clark has
instructions on this head and will, I doubt not, exert himself
to curb all licentious practices of the soldiery, which, if un-
restrained, will produce the most baneful effects.
You will also discountenance and punish every attempt
to violate the property of the Indians, particularly in their
land. Our enemies have alarmed them much on that
score, but I hope from your prudence and justice that no
grounds of complaint will be administered on this subject.
You will embrace every opportunity to manifest the high
regard and friendly sentiments of this commonwealth
toward all the subjects of his Catholic Majesty for whose
safety, prosperity and advantage you will give every possi-
ble advantage. You will make a tender of the friendship
and services of your people to the Spanish commandant
near Kaskaskia and cultivate the strictest connection with
him and his people. I deliver you a letter which you will
hand to him in person. The details of your duty in the
civil department I need not give you, its best direction will
be found in your innate love of justice and zeal to be in-
tensely useful to your fellow-men. A general direction to
act according to the best of your judgment in cases where
these instructions are silent and the laws have not other-
wise directed is given to you from the necessity of the cases
for your great distance from government will not permit
you to wait for orders in many cases of great importance.
In your negotiations with the Indians confine the stipula'
as much as possible to the single object of obtaining from
them touch not the subject of land or boundaries till par-
ticular orders are received ; where necessity requires it
presents may be made, but be as frugal in that matter as
possible, and Jet them know that Goods at present is scarce
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
91
with us, but we expect soon to trade freely with all the
world and they shall not want when we can get them. The
matters given you in charge are singular in their nature
and weighty in their consequences to the people imme-
diately concerned, and the whole state they require the
fullest exertion of your ability and unwearied diligence.
From matters of general concern you must turn occasionally
to others of less consequence. Mr. Iluseblave's wife and
family mus; not suffer for want of that property of which
they were bereft by our troops, it is to be restored to them
if possible, if this cannot be done the public must supijort
them.
I think it proper for you to send me an express once in
three months with a general account of affairs with you and
any particulars you wish to communicate It is in con-
templation to appoint an agent to manage trade on public
accounts to supply Illinois and Indians with goods. If such
an appointment takes place you will give it every possible
aid. The people with you should not intermit their en-
deavors to procure su[)plies on the expectation of this, and
you may act accordingly.
P. Henry."
Hon. Edward G. Mason, in his " Illinois in the 18th
Century " comments on the contents of said letter as follows;
" This letter is notsu h a one as territorial governors would
be likely to receive in our days. It deals with higher things
than those which occupy the modern politician. The Lieu-
tenant's care must be to remove the grievances that obstruct
the happiness and prosperity of that country, and his con-
stant attention to see that the inhabitants have justice ad-
ministered. He is to discountenance and punish every
attempt to violate the property of ihe Indians To the
Spanish Commandant near Kaskaskia be is to tender friend-
ship and services, and he is warned that the matters given
in his charge are ' singular in their nature and weighty in
their consequences to the people immediately concerned, and
to the whole state.' Then with that high .sense of justice
and humanity which distinguished the man, Henry turns
from state affairs to right the wrongs of the helpless wife
and children of his country's enemy. The family of Mr.
Koseblave, the late British commandant at Kaskaskia, had
been left among the hostile people there, while the husband
and father was a prisoner in Virginia and their possessions
had been confiscated.
Conciliatiiin of the newly enfranchised inhabitants, selec-
tion of competent advisers, defense against foreign and
native enemies, subordination of the military to the civil
arm of the government, establishment of Republican insti-
tutions, administration of equal justice to all, an alliance
with friendly neighbors, encouragement of trade, and the
exertion of the commandant of unwearied diligence, zeal
and ability in behalf of his people ; such are the principal
heads of this able and, for its time, extraordinary State
paper. It shows ua that the man, who had taken the grave
responsibility of the secret instructions which led to the cap-
tureof the Illinois country, was competent to direct the next
step in its career. He could wisely govern what had been
bravely won. With all the cares of a new state engaged in
a war for its independence resting upon his shoulders, pro-
scribed as a traitor to the mother country, and writing
almost within sound of the guns of the British fleet upon
the James, he looked with calm vision into the future and
laid well the foundations of another commonwealth beyond
the Ohio."
John Todd arrived at Kaskaskia on the first day of May,
1779, as stated in the journal of Col. Clark who says : " The
civil department in the Illinois had heretofore robbed me of
too much of my time that ought to be spent in military
reflection. I was now likely to be relieved by Col. John
Todd, appointed by government for that purpose. I was
anxious for his arrival and happy in his appointment, as
the greatest intimacy and friendship subsisted between us ;
and on the day of May, 1779, had the pleasure of
seeing him safely landed at Kaskaskia to the joy of every
person. I now saw myself happily rid of a piece of trouble
that I had no delight in."
Col. Todd was not slow to assume his labors, as will be
seen from his record book, page 6, containing his first entry
in reference to appointing and commissioning deputy-com-
mandants and otticers of the militia, dated May 14, 1779, to
wit : (copied verbatim.)
Made out the military commissions for the district of
Kaskaskia, dated May 14th, 1779: Richard Winston,
Commandant, as Capt. ; Nicholas Janis, First company,
captain ; Baptiste Charleville, 1st Lieutenant ; Charles
Charleville, 2nd Lieutenant; ]\Iichael Godis, Ensign.
Second company : Joseph Du Plassy, ca|)tain ; Nicholas
Le Chance, 1st Lieutenant; Charles Danee, '2d Lieutenant;
Baptiste Janis, Ensign.
" 17th May, sent a commission of commandant of Prairie
du Rucher and captain of the militia to Jean B. Barbeau.
The District of Kohokia. — Francois Trotter (should be
Trotier), commandant ; Tourangeau, captain l?t com-
pany ; Girardin, lieutenant; C. Marthen, lieutenant;
Sausfaron, ensign. Commission dated 14th May, 1779,
"'Myear of th-. Conimonweixlth." (This latter clause is not
without significance. How firmly must the patriots of those
days have been convinced of their success, to commence their
reckoning of time from the date of the Declaration of Inde-
pendence, years before it was established !)
The attention of Todd was next directed towards estab-
lishing the courts. The statutory provision to have all civil
oflicers elected by a majority of the people, was carried out,
as appears from the entries made on pages 7 and 8, to which
the reader is referred. This election was held in the month
of May, 1779, and was the first election ever held in Illinois.
We have spent days in search of those election returns,
which would have furnished a list of names of the voting
population of the territory and been almost equivalent to a
census. The search was in vain. The documents had been
lost ordestroycd. An cft'ort to save them, made by Hon. W.
C. Flagg, while senator of Ma<lison county, in 18G9, proved
abortive, for the oflicer in custody of those documents per-
emptorily reined to let Mr. Flagg have them. The latter,
fully aware of the hi^torical value of many of those docu-
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
nients, pledged himself to return them, arranged in throno-
logical order, and substantially bound at his own expense,
as soon as he had copied the most interesting documents.
All was in vain. S. St. Vrain would listen to no proposals
of the kind, although the county authorities had made an
order to transmit those documeuts to Mr. Flagg. Was it
a sense of duty that prompted St. Vrain to disobey? Who
knows ? The result of his refusal is in any event very much
to be deplored.
The entry above referred to is as follows : " List of the
Court of Kaskaskia, as elected by the people: 1. Gabriel
Cerre ; 2. Joseph Du PlaFsy ; 3. Jaques Lesource ; 4. Ni-
cholas Janis ; 5. J. B Barbeau ; 6. Nicholas Le Chance ;
7. Charles Charleville ; 8. Antoin Duchafours de Louvirres,
and 9. Girradot (probably Girardin). Carbo-
neau, clerk ; Richard Winston, sheriff. Court of Kohokias :
1. Touranjeau (Godin) ; 2. Frangois Trottier ; 3. Charles
Gratiot ; 4. Gieradin ; 5. B. Saucier ; 6. M. Beau
lieu ; 7. C. Martheu. Fran9ois Saucier, clerk ; J. B. Le
Croix, sheriff. The Court of St. Vincennes : 1. P. Lfgras;
2. Francois Bosserau ; 3. Perrot ; 4. Cardinal
(refused to serve) ; 5. Guerry La Tulippe ; 6 P. Gamelin ;
7. Edeline; 8. Degeuest ; 9. Barron.
Legrand, clerk ; , sheriff.
Militia officers of St. Vincennes : P. Legras, lieut- col. ; F.
Bosserou, major ; La Tulippe, 1st captain ; Ede-
line, 2d ; M. Brouilet, 3d (rank not settled) [capt.] ; P.
Garmliu, 4th; 1. ; 2. Godin, lieut. ; o.
Godin, lieut. ; 4. . 1. ; 2.
Joseph Rougas ; 3. Richerville ; 4. Richerville.
The reader will observe that by far the greater number
of those ofhcials elected as well of militia officers appointed
are French. Anglo-American names are but few. The
fact that many of the nnlitia officers are also members of the
courts, leadj us to infer, that the material for "officers" was
not as plentiful as in our days, and strange to say, one of
the judges of Vincennes, Monsieur Cardinal, refused to
serve. The reason for his refusil is not stated, but what
" Cardinal" would be satisfied with the fourth place on the
bench ?
The attention of Todd is next given to the encouragement
of trade and business, for page eleven contains a copy of a
license of trade issued to Richard McCarty. (The reader
will find this name again in the subsequent chapter on
Monroe county).
The document introduced here is the first of its kind
issued in Illinois, from it the reader will learn, that to
become a trader, a man had to be a patriot first, and also to
prove his integrity, etc. We further learn, that the loyal
citizens of those days were '■ liege subjects." Here follows
the license :
LICENSE FOR TRADE.
To all to whom these presents shall come. Greeting:
Know ye, that whereas Richard McCarty, gentleman, hath
produced a recommendation from the Court of District of
Kohokia, certifying his patriotism, integrity and knowledge
in trade and merchandizing. These are, therefore, to
licBDEe and permit the said R. McCarty to traffic and
merchandize with all the liege subjects and friends of the
United States of America, of what nation soever they be,
and to erect factories and stores at any convenient place or
places he shall think proper within the commonwealth
aforesaid. Provided, that by virtue hereof, no pretence
shall be made to trespass upon the effects or property of
individuals.
Given under my hand and seal at Kaskaskia, the 5th of
June, 1779, in the third year of the commonwealth.
The financial question of the day now claimed the atten-
tion of the indefatigable lieutenant. The paper money of
the young commonwealth of Virginia, as well as that of the
United States, was " cried down " in the streets of the
villages. The rapid depreciation of this curreiicy was
severely felt in the county of Illinois, and attracted Todd's
attention. His letter to the court of Kaskaskia on the
subject is worth preserving, to wit:
LETTER TO THE COURT OF KASKASKIA.
"Gentlemen: The only methcd America has to support
the present just war is by her credit. That credit at present
is her bills emitted from the different treasuries, by which
she engages to pay the bearer at a certain time gold and
silver in exchange. There is no friend to American Inde-
pendence who has any judgment but soon expects to see it
equal to gold and silver. Some disaffect-d persons and
designing speculators, discredit it through enmity or
interest; the ignorant multitude have not sagacity enough
to examine into this matter, and merely from its uncommon
quantity and in proportion to it arises the complaint of its
want of credit. This has for some years been the case near
the seat of war, the disorder has spread at last as far as the
Illinois, and calls loudly for a remedy. In the interior
counties this remedy is a heavy tax now operating, from
which an indulgent government has exempted us. One
only remedy remains which is lodged within my power, that
is by receiving on behalf of government such sums as the
people shall be induced to lend upon a sure fund, and
thereby decreasing the (|uantity ; the mode of doing this is
alread}' ])lanned and shall be always openlo your inspection
and examinatiou with the proceedings, and I must request
your concurrence and assistance, I am gentlemen, your most
obedient servant. John Todd."
The record book next contains a plan or mode of relief,
as follows :
Plan for borrowing 33,333i dollars of Treasury Notes
both belonging to this State and the United States. Where-
as, owing to no other reason than the prodigious quantity
of Treasury Notes now in circulation the value of almost
every commodity has risen to most enormous prices ; the
preserving of the credit of the said bills by reducing the
quantity requires some immediate remedy it is therefore de-
clared :
1. That 21,000 acres of land belonging to this common-
wealth shall be laid off as soon as may be boundeel thus:
Beginning on the bank of the Missii-sippi in the district of
Kohokia at Richard McCarty 's corner, thence running up
the said river 3,500 poles, when reduced to a straight line
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
93
from the extrcmeties of wliich at right angles with the
former on the Virginia side, two lines of equal length shall
run so far, that with another line parallel with the course
of the river plat shall contain the quantity aforesaid.
2. That the said 21,000 (except one thousand to be here-
after laid off by the government for a town in the most
convenient part thereof within and out lot.s) shall be a fund
for the purpose aforesaid. Provided that every adventurer
be subject to all laws and regulations in cultivating and
settling, to which settlers in the county of Illinois shall
hereafter be subjected.
3. That the lender of money take a certificate from the
commissioner for the purpose appointed, for the sum but not
being less than 100 dollars, for which, he, his heirs, execu-
tors, administrators, or assigns shall be entitled to demand
within two years, a title to his proportion of the laud in the
said fund or the sum originally advanced in gold or silver
with 5 per cent, interest per annum at the option of the
State. Provided first that no assignment of such certificate
shall be made but in open court by deed to be recorded.
2 That a deduction shall be made for all money hereafter
discovered to be counterfeited.
4. That all persons may have reasonable inducements to
lend, the lender shall have assurance that no greater sum
shall be received than 33 333* dollars on said fund. That
government shall comply with the above enjoyment, and
this Plan be recorded in the Recorder's office of Kaskaskia.
Joiix Todd.
Todd's plan must have found favor with court, he ap-
pointed Henry Crutchcr commissioner and his record book
contains the following :
COPY OI' THE INSTRICTIOS ASD OX THE BOin'.OWING PrXD.
'■ Sir : You are hereby appointed a commissioner for borrow-
ing money upon the Kohokia Fund. Inclosed is a copy of
the Plan ; the design you'll observe is to abridge the quantity
in circulation. The money paid in you will preserve until
you shall be called upon for it. Let every man's money be
kept apart with his name and quantity endorsed thereon.
Keep a book to register the number, the person's name, the
quantity of money, the dates your receipt thus :
KOnOKIA FUND (XO. 1).
I do certify that I have received of the
sum of Dollars which entitles the said
to a proportionable quantity of land in the Kohokia Fund,
or gold and silver, according to the Plan recorded in the
Recorder's office of Kaskaskia. Witness my hand this —
day of ,1779.
Henry Critcher, Commissioner."
Mr. Crutchcr's bond, in words and figures as follows is
also recorded in said book, to wit:
" Know all men by these presence that we, Henry Crutcher,
George Slaughter and John Boberts, are held and firmly
bound unto Jno. Todd, Esq , Commander-in-Chief of the
County of Illinois in the sura of thirty-three thousand three
hundred and thirty-three dollars and one-third to be paid to
the said John Todd or his successors, to which payment
will truly be made, we do bind ourselves and each of our
heirs, executors firmly by these presence. Sealed and dated
this 14th day of June in the year 1779.
The condition of the above obligation is such if the above
named Henry Crutcher, Commissioner of Funds, for bor-
rowing certain sums of Continental and State currency
shall at all times when required pay and account for all
sums so received, and in all things comport himself agree-
able to such rules and regulations as shall be adopted for
prosecuting the same then the above obligations to be void
otherwise in full force.
Test
Rich'd Harrison.
Rhii'd Winston.
Henry Crvtchek.
Geo. Slaughter.
John Roberts.
From a proclamation issued by the county-lieutenant on
the same day, it would appear, that a number of adventurers
had made their appearance in his county for the purpose of
laying claims to its most desirable lands, which Col. Todd
would rather have reserved for actual settlers. The fertil-
ity of his brain, backed by an unceasing activity, is truly
admirable. The proclamation read as follows :
proclamation.
" lUinoh to wit :
Whereas, from the fertility and beautiful situation of the
lands bordering upon the Mississippi, Ohio, Illinois, and
Wabash rivers, the taking up the usual quantity heretofore
allowed for a settlement by the Governors of Virginia would
injure both the strength and commerce of this country in
future :
I do, therefore, issue this proclamation, strictly enjoining
all persons whatsover from making any new settlements
upon the flat lauds of the saiil rivers, or within one league
of said lands, in manner and form of settlement as heretofore
made by the French inhabitants, until further ordtrs given
herein.
And, in order that all the claims to lands williiii the said
country mav be fully known, and some method provided for
perpetuating by records the just claims — eveiy inhabitant
is required, as soon as conveniently may be, to lay before the
persons in each district ajipointul for that jiurpose a aemo-
randum of his or her land, with copies of all their vouchers
and where vouchers have never been given or are lost, such
deposition and certificate as will best tend to support their
claims. Such memorandum to mention the quantity of
land, to whom originally granted, or by whom stttkd, and
where; reducing the title through the various occupants to
the present proprietor. The number of adventurers who
will soon overrun this country renders the above method
necessary, as well as to ascertain the vacant land as to
guard against trespasses which will proliably be committed
on land not of record.
Given under my hand and seal at Kaskaskia, the I4th
day of June, 1779.
John Todd."
94
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Meanwhile, the newly-elected judges of the court at Kas-
kaskia and Cahokia had held sessions. The records of their
proceedings are not in existence, but our commandant's
record-book sheds some light on what the judges had done.
The first entry on page 18 contains the following :
WARRANT FOR EXECUTION.
Illinois to wit :
To Richard Winston, Esq., Sheriff in-Chief of the District
of Kaskaskia.
Negro Mannel, a slave in your custody, is condemned by
the court of Kaskaskia, afier having made honorable fine at
the door of the church, to be chained to a post at the water-
side, and there to be burnt alive and his ashes scattered, as
appears to me by record. This sentence you are hereby
required to put into execution on Tuesday next at 9 o'clock
in the morning, and this shall be your warrant. Given
under ray hand and seal at Kaskaskia, the 13th day of June,
in the 3d year of the Commonwealth.
There is no record of the crime which was to be atoned
for by the wretch Mannel, nor can it be told if this awful
sentence was put in execution. Some person having access
to the record-book, has drawn heavy lines across the lieu-
tenant's order, so as to efface it forever. There is no doubt,
however, that the court had fixed the inhuman penalty, for
the order to execute it is certainly in Todd's handwriting,
who, under the law of Virginia, mentioned above, was de-
prived of the power to pardon in such cases. It is therefore
very probable that ihe sentence was duly executed.
The following order bears witness that the court at Caho-
kia had also been at work :
" To Capt. Nicholas Janis :
You are hereby required to call upon a party of your
militia to guard '• Moreau," a slave condemned to execution
up to the town of Kokas — put them under an officer. They
shall be entitled to pay, rations and refreshments during
the time they shall be upon duty to be certified hereafter
by you.
I am, sir, yr Hble servant,
Jno. Todd "
15th June, 1779. I recommend 4 or 5 from your
compy, and as many from Capt. Placey's, and consult Mr.
Lacroix about the time necessary. J. T.
It is not unlikely that both of these negroes had been
tried on a charge of Voudouism, or Witchcraft, and found
or even pleaded guilty of an imagined crime. Reynolds,
in his Pioneer History says : " In Cahokia about the year
1790, this superstition got the upper hand of reason, and
several poor African slaves were immolated at the shrine of
ignorance for this imaginary offense. An African slave, called
Moreau, was hung for this crime on a tree not far south east
of Cahokia. It is stated that he had said he poisoned his
master, but his mistress was loo strong for his necromancy."
There cannot be any doubt that the " Moreau " of Todd
is -identical with Gov. Reynolds' man "Moreau." Rey-
nolds, who writes from tradition, is not correct in his dates.
It would seem that " Moreau " had been kept confined at
Kaskaskia, as there was not any prison at Cahokia (Kahos)
prior to 1791, and m Captain Janis was instructed to confer
with Mr. Le Croix (sheriff of the district of Cahokia as
stalel abjve) we miy infer, thit Croix hung said negro.
The county-lieutenant, after his labars of 4 or 5 weeks
at the settlements on the Mississippi, now prepared to enter
upon his duties in other parts of his "empire county." Be-
fore leaving, he addressed the following letter to his sheriff,
to wit :
" Sir: Djring my absence the command will devolve upon
you as commander of Kaskaskia — if Col. Clark should want
anything more for his expedition, consult the members of
the Court upon the best mode of proceeding. If the people
will not spare willingly, if in their power, you must press
it, valuing the property by two men upon oath — let the mil-
itary have no pretext for forcing property. When you order
it and the people will not find it, then it will be time for
them to interfere. By all means keep up a good under-
standing with Col. Clark and the officers. If this is not the
case you will be unhappy. I am, sir,
Yr. hble. servt,
John Todd."
To Rich'd Winston, Esqk.
June 13, 1779.
The expedition of Col. Clark referred to in this letter,
was the one planned against the English at Detroit, but was
never carried out. Todd was back at Kaskaskia on the
27th of July, 1779, on which day the following proclama-
tion in reference to the continental currency was inserted
into his record book.
" IlliuoLS to wit :
Whereas the emissions of continental money, dated the
20th May, 1777, and April 11th, 1778, were required to be
paid into some continental treasury by the first of June,
which was a day impossible to the people of Illinois :
I do therefore notify all persons who have money of the
said emission, that unless they shall as soon as possible com-
ply with the said resolution of Congress and produce vouch-
ers of such, their impossibility, the money must sink in their
hands. The vouchers must be certifyed 'by myself or some
deputy commandant of this county, and have reference to
the bundle of money numbered and sealed.
Signed by order of the commandant-in-chief at Kaskaskia
July 27th, 1779.
( Copy. ) John Todd."
Hy. Crutcher.
Soon after his return, the county-lieutenant issued a per-
emptory order to the judges of the Kaskaskia district to
hold court, any adjournment to the contrary notwithstand-
ing. The easy going of his French judges seems to have
irritated the restless and ever working spirit of Todd, who
" slightly interfered with the court's prerogative" by issuing
this order :
" To Gabriel Cerre ,i Co., Esqs., Judges of the Court for the
District of Kaskaskia.
You are hereby authorized and required to hold and con-
stitute a court on Saturday, the 21st of July, at the usual
HISTORY OF BAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
95
place of holding court within your district, any adjournment
to the contrary notwithstanding.
Provided that no suitor or party be compelled to answer
any process upon said day unless properly summoned by the
clerk and sheriff.
Given under my hand and feal at Kaskatkia, 1779.
Jdhs Todd."
It is to be presumed that Monsieur Gabriel and his "con-
freres" took the hint and held court on the '2]st of July
(Atigust is meant), no matter how much they disliked to sit
in court during the reign of the dog-star ; but it would be a
treat to be allowed to read the minutes of that court. Old
Gabriel and his clerk Carboneau have certainly given the
lieutenant a model cudgeling in grand French eloquence.
In the month of August, 1779, the commandant addressed
himself, in obedience to Patrick Henry's wise suggestions, to
Monsieur Cartabonne, commanding at St. Genevieve, and
also to Monsieur Leyba at St. Louis. These letters, originally
in French, were cojied by parlies not conversant with that
language, and are therefore not very intelligible. It will be
remembered that all the region west of the Mississippi then
belonged to Spain, at that time at war with England. In
these letters Todd proposes an arrangement concerning the
commerce of the Illinois country, for the mutual advantage
of their respective governments, — his Catholic majesty on
the one hand and the State of Virginia on the other, and for
the disadvantage of the British, their common enemy, promis-
ing at the same time to aid his neighbors by sending troops
at his (Todd's) disposition, if the Spaniards were attacked
and needed help.
Tcese troops were then on tluir march to Illinois. Todd
had to overcome many difficulties in procuring the necessary
supplies for those troops, even in this most fertile region of
the continent, but less on account of scarcity of the neces-
saries of life, than on account of the sluggishness of the
newly-made " freemen " of French descent, who still pre-
ferred the Royal Louis d'or to the Republican " promise to
pay."
The record-book is again reftrred to for explanation (see
page 2- ), to wit :
The inhabitants of Kaskaskia are for the last time invited
to contract with the persons appointed, for provisions espe-
cially "fou'tr," for the troops who will shortly be here. I
hope they'll use properly the indulgence of a mild govern-
ment. If I shall be obliged to give the military permission
to press it will be a disadvantage and what ought more to
influence free men, it will be a dishonor to the people.
Published by order of the Commander in Chief at Kas-
kaskia, 11th Aug. 1779.
In order to facilitate matters the contracting officers were
instructed to file vouchers with the county lieutenant and
obtain orders on th» governor of Virginia in payment of
supplies thus furnished. The record book contains only one
such order, to wit :
To his excellency the Governor of Virginia please to pay
to J. B. La Croix or order the sum of 78 dollars which is
due to him from the state of Virginia for sundries furnished
the militia and Indiansas appears by vouchers to me rendered.
Given under mv hand at Kaskaskia, the 11th of August,
1779.
Being convinced that this appeal met with but indiflVrent
responses, a harsher measure was tried.
todd's emh.vroo.
Illinois to wit : Whereas the demands of the State require
that a stock of Provisions be immediately laid for the use
of the troops of the C'ommonwealth and that an embargo
be laid upou such provisions for a limited time. I do there-
fore issue this Proclamation strictly enjoining all inhabitants
and others in the county of Illinois from exporting either by
land or water any provisions wh.itsoever for the space of
sixty davs unless I shall have assurance before that time
that a sufficient stock is laid up for the troops or sufficient
security is given to the contractors for its delivery whenever
required. The offender herein shall besubjected to imprison-
ment for one month and mcrever forfeit the value of such
exported provi.-ion.
Given under my hand ami seal at Kaskaskia .\ugust "iL'nd,
1779.
This order is also recorded in French, apparently becau.se
the French were so very reluctant in aiding the struggling
state, and becoming weary at the delay of the people as to
the voluntary surrender of continental money he gave the
following notice, in both languages.
Illinois to wit : The Public are notified that after to mor-
row no more certificates will be granted at Kaskaskia to per-
sons producing the called in emms<ions.
Published by order August 22nd 1779.
It is verv questionable, whether the French in the settle-
ments in Illinois had large amounts of continental money.
They were a careful race, and from the numerous sale bills
on file it would appear that they did not sell anything for
any other currency than coined money, except on compul-
sion. Now they were called on to deposit their money in
the public treasury, for no other purpose than to drive it out
of circulation. They could not understand the benefit to be
derived from such an arrangement, and consequently pre-
ferred to keep in their own cash box the little stock of con-
tinental scrip they had hoarded up.
How slow the residents were to furnish the authorities
with the so much needed supplies is made apparent from the
fact, that the following or record order on the governor
to wit :
"October 7. 1779. Order given Pat McCrosky on the
Governor for 140 dollars dated at Kaskaskia October 7.,
17i9, [No. 2. 140] by certificate from M. Helm," was i.ssucd
nearlv two months since Croix had drawn his order for
87800.
A short and simple method of forfeiting realty is illus-
trated in the proceedings set forth on pages 25 and 26 to wit :
"Advertised by notifying at the door of the church of
Kaskaskia the half a lot above the church, joining Picard
on the east, and Langlois on the west, that unless some per-
son should appear and support their claifu to the said lot
within three days it should be condemned to the use of the
96
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
commonwoalth. Said notification was dated Octuber 4tli,
1779."
This advertisement is succeeded ten days later b}' the
following, to wit :
" 7///»o/V, to ivil : Whereas, after publicly calling upon any
person or persons to show and make appear any claim
which they might have to a certain lot of laud containing
one half acre, be the same more or less, lying in the town of
Kaskaskia, near the church adjoining Mons' Pickard on
the east, and Mons' Langlois on the west, and after delaying
and waiting the appointed time, and no person yet appear-
ing to claim the same against the commonwealth of Vir-
ginia, I do declare and adjudge the said lot to the said
commonwealth, and that all persons whatever be thence-
forth debarred and precluded forever from any claim thereto.
Given under my hand at Kaskaskia, the 13th of October,
in the fourth year of this Commonwealth, a. d. 1779.
John Todd.
And thus the commonwealth of Virginia became the
owner of said tract.
The last entry in Todd's handwriting has reference to a
land grant to Col. Montgomery, but the pages are torn out
of the book and nothing is left but the words : " Copy of a
grant of land to Col. Montgomery."
Some other entries were made by others in Col. Todd's
record liook during his term of office 1778 to 1782. (Todd
fell in the celebrated battle with the Indians at the Blue
Licks, Kentucky, August 18, 1782;. On two pages, near the
end of the book, is kept his "peltry account," which is charged
with his drafts on the governor of Virginia, in favor of
Mons' Beauregarde, to the amount of $30,000, dated at St.
Louis, September 14, 1779, the value thereof having been
received, one-third in paper currency and two-thirds in
peltries. The account is credited with payments made
for supplies for the garrison at Kaskaskia, purchased by
Col. John Montgomery, and for the garrison at Cahokia,
purchased by Capt. McCarthy. Taffia * seems to have been
the most desired article of supplies bought, for it was laid in
by the hogshead.
On page 26 is an oath of allegiance taken by James
Moore at Kaskaskia, to the United States of America.
James Moore's Naturalization.
I do swear on the Holy Evangelists of Almighty God that
I renounce all fidelity to George the Third, King of Great
Britain, his heirs and successors, and that I will bear true
allegiance to the United States of America, as free and inde-
pendent, as declared by Congress, and that I will not do or
cause to be done any matter or thing that may be injurious
or prejudicial to the independence of said States, and that I
will make known to some one justice of the peace for the
United States all treasonous, all treacherous conspiracies
*Taffia is mentioned as late as 1800, when the court regulated the priees to
be charged by innkeepers for commodities furnished to guests— taifia or rum
25 cents per one lialf-pint. Webster allowed the word a space in his unabridged,
but casts out one f, and defines the word " A variety of rum, so called by the
Frencli."
which may come to my knowledge, to be formed against said
United States or any one of them. So help me God.
Sworn at Kaskaskia, July 10th, 1782.
James Moot:e *
During the frequent absences from his " county," Todd
seems to have been represented by Monsieur De Montbrun,
his deputy and acting commandant, who^ a little vain per-
haps, took pains to have posterity learn his temporary
dignity, for he wrote on the inside of the covers of this book
the following words : " Nota bene, Mons. Thiraothe De Mont
Brun Lt. Comd't par interim." This mixture of Latin and
French (Take notice. We, De Mont Brun, Lt. Corad't for the
time being) is written in a bold beautiful hand.
On the last page are two memoranda iu the same hand-
writing. They read :
February, 1782. Arrived, a small tribe of«the Wabash
Indians, imploring the paternal succor of their father, the
Bostouians having their patent from Major Linctot. In
consequence, I did, on behalf of the Commonwealth, give
them six bushels Indian corn, fifty pounds of bread, four
pounds of gunpowder, ten pounds of ball, and one gallon of
taffia from Carbonneaux.
The circumstance that these lodians called the whites
" Bostouians" would indicate that said small tribe was made
up of fragments of tribes of New England Indians. The
second Indian visit is reported on the next page, to wit :
March 22d. Came here deputies from the Delawares,
Shawnes and Cherokee nations of Indians, begging that the
Americans would grant them peace, as likewise the French
and Spanish ; and after hearing their talk, smoking the pipe
of peace and friendship with th°m, and from their conduct
while here, as well as many marks they gave us of their
sincerity, I could not avoid giving them, on behalf of the
Americans, the following articles, viz. : 10 bushels Indian
corn, lOO pounds flour and 100 pounds biscuit, 6 pounds
tobacco, 1 gallon taffia, 5 pounds wampoun, and canoe which
cost me S2U.
An entry on the fly-leaf of the record-book recalls to us
Todd's former deputy, Richard Winston, the sherift"; and the
contents of this entry explain why Timothy had taken Dick's
place. Winston must have forgotten the warning of Todd
to keep on terms with the military chief, and thus was found
in bondage. While imprisoned he must have found the
Record Book in his prison, and iu order to let future gener-
ations know why he was not longer dtputy and acting com-
mandant, he wrote out the following statement :
'Kaskaskies in the Illinois, the 29th April, 1782.
This day ten o'clock, A. M., I was taken out of my
house by Israel Dodge on an order given by Jno. Dodge,
in despite of the civil authority, disregardless the laws and
on the malicious accusation of Jas. Williams and Michael
* 1782. Among the immigrants to Illinois we note the names of Jamea Moore,
Shadrach Bond, James Garrison, Robert Kidd and Larlcen Rutherford, the
two latter having been with Claris; they were from Virginia and Maryland.
Jama Moore, the leader, and a portion of his party, located afterwards on the
hills near "Bellcfontaine," while Bond and the rest settled in the American
Bottom (from which circumstance the name is derived), near Carthage or Har-
risonville, subsequ-ntly known bs the "Block-House Fort."— (Davidson *
Stuvo's History of Illinois, chapter 18.)
nisronv of haxixili'II, Masum: .wn ri:i:i;y cnr.Mii-s, ii.i.ixois.
IV'raiile a.-; may u]>i)oai' by tlieir ilepcisitioiis. I was rniiliiuil
by Tyi-aiiiiick iijilitary force without making any ic^'ai
application to the civil magistrate. .'inth tlio alt^'iiuy
for the state, La Jiui<uiere, preieiited a petition to the cuirt
against Richard Winston, state prisoner in llnir cnslndy.
the contents of which he (the attorney foi- the staid ''iighl
to have conimunicateil to me or my attorney if any I had.
(The entry here ends abruptly).
The remaining pages of this book arc occupieil uiiji a
brief record (French) of the proceedings of the court. Ii ini
JuneSth, 17^7 to i''eliruai-y l"'tli, 17-''^. I)uiingtliis piii.Hl
the court seems to have Ineii pi-'iiy nnnh in the hands nt
one family, as thn'C of tin' li\e jiistiees are named l;i_iuiv;d~
The proceedings are void ot' interest.
The county "Illinois" remaineil a part ol' N'irjinia until
March 1st, 1784. when Virginia ■' deeded "' ih' \;i-i domain
to the United States. From 17'S4 to 17'S7. Illinois was
practically without a civil government. The celebrated
ordinance of 1787 (passed July loth), (jrganized the north-
west territory, and General Arthur .St Clair was, by (Con-
gress elected governor of the territory, October 5tli, 1787.
(iov. St. Clair arriveil at Kaskaskia, in February, 17U0,
and on tlie 14lh of April of that yrar, issued his proclama-
tion, organizing the county of St. Clair: "Beginning at the
mouth of tiie little Jlichilliakinack (now Mackinaw creek)
running thence southerly in a direct line to the mouth of the
little river above Fort Massac upon the Ohio, thence with
the .said river to its junction «ith the Mississippi, thence up
the Mississippi to tlie mouth of the Illinois river and up
Illinois river to the place of beginning, etc.
A court of Common I'leas was establisheil, and .Tnhn
Edgar of Kaskaskia, John Baptiste Barbeau of Prairie du
Ilocher, and John Dumoulin of Cahokia appointed judges,
each of whom held court in the district where he resided.
William St. Clair was appointed clerk and recorder of
deeds, and William Biggs, Sheriff. Thus the interregnum
of sixteen years gave way to a better order of things.
Immigration had however continued uninterruptedly, as
will be seen in our chapter on pioneers and early settlers.
In 1795 the governor saw fit to form a second county. It
was done by drawing a line from the Jlississijipi due east
through New Design settlement to the Wabash. All the
territory south of this line to the Ohio River was, in honor
of Edmund Randolph, the Virginian statesman and
philanthropist, named
li.VXIXILI'II COUNTY.*
At the time of its organization, the vast area of the
country cjutained, in its western part, the following distinct
settlements, to wit: The ancient French villages of Kas-
kaskia, Prairie du Rocher and St. Philij) with FortChartres
and the purely American settlement at New Design. The
" French " villages and adjacent districts were inhabited by
the descendants of the colonists arrived in the beginning of
the 18th century, and by a number of English and American
emigrants, who, in a spirit of adventure or speculation had
• E. J. Moiitii^'uu ill hi.s liistoiicnl sliutdiM of Kiimlolpli County, ;i.ssoils thiit
when Col. Claik tuoli possession of tlie emintry in 1778, tic immoit llic ilistrict
iwonml Kiiskaskia " Riiiul<ilpli County" in complinii-nt to F,.linniia R;in.|olpli,
ell-.
13
I'ounil their wav to those ilis'ant regiiins since 17G3. The
cession of the eiuntry to Kngland had induced many of
the wialtliier French eol''ii'-|s lo aliandoii their homesteads
on the ea-t sideot' tli.' .^l:~>i-sippi, seeking refuge in the ter-
ritory -.vest of the- river, then in possession of his Catholic
Maje-ty, the King of Spain. This exodus of the French
alarnud the lOnglisli Authorities to some extent, and induced
tlieiu to pronnse to the inhabitants the liberty of the
■ ( aili .lie Ueligi.in," etc, bv proclamation, at the same
time granting those wishing to emigrate, the right to .sell
their propertv, provided tlie purch;isers were loyal to the
!\ing of I'lngland. The e>:odus, however, continued; and it
i-- 'inesiioiiublc whetlur the arrival of r'nglishmeu and later
of .\MMrieans was sniiii'ien! to till the gaps. The popula-
li'in ■■:' tiie new eonn.ty in 17'.'i was in ;tll probability less
than in 17i!-;. The inh;sl)ilants of the county at that period
il7'.'o were for the njev-t pait farmers and hunters. The
nnndji.r of traders was limited, and the trades were repre-
sented by a few blacksmiths and here and there a tanner;
the fact was, that the American jiioneers were, almost with-
out exception, skilled mechanics and artisans.
TEN'UKf; OI' I..VXD.S.
The French colonists held the land granted to them pretty
much in the same style in which the rural population of
their mother land hold it to this day. Each villager had a
strip assigned to him, some more, some less, according, pro-
bably to the number of his family or to the favor in which
he stood with the dispensers of the grants These strips
were surrounded by a ftnee owned and constructed in com-
mon by all the villagers, each of whom had to render a
certain amount of labor for the commuiuty or forfeit tl.e
right to his strip. At Kask.askia these strips extended from
river to river, while at St. Philip and other colonies they
extended from the river to the hills. Besides the.se fields
held in common, the villagers possessed large tracts of lands
as commons, where to procure fuel, hunt, fish and pasture
their stock. A large part of these commons have in our
days been leased in smaller parcels to settlers, and for the
benefit of the vUlwjcrs, while some por.ions still remain
" commons " as of yore. Individual grants were also made
by French missionaries. The French ( ioverunient made
first mention of their pos.sessions in " Louisiana " in 1712,
on the 14th of September, when Antoine Croziit was granted
letters patent to the whole commerce of the country. In
1723, on the 14th of June, a grant of land was made to
Francois Philip Renault (Renaud) in fee simple in order to
enable him to support his establishment at the mines in
Upper Louisiana. This grant was made by Boisbriaiit, the
King's lieutenant, and governor of the province of Louisiana,
and by Des Ursins, principal secretary of the Royal India
Company. The grant was located near Fort Chartres,
bounded on the south by lands of the Illinois Indian.^, one
league in front of the Mississippi, and extending back into
the country two leagues.
Other individual grants exteudeil throughout the Ameri-
can bottom for a distance of many miles. The English,
wheu in possession of the territory, 17(53 to 1778, exercised
the privilege of making grants to a great extent, and in some
98
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
instances conveyed lands which had for years been the pro-
perty of individuals.* Virginia, when in possession of the
territory granted the so-called improvement rights, 400
acres each ; all these grants properly authenticated, were
recognized by the United States when succeeding Virginia
in the possession of the territory. In their turn the United
States granted the so called family head rights of 400 acres
each, to heads of families having held permanent residence
in the territory in 1783, and militia rights of 100 acres
each to all who had actually served in the militia in 1790
and prior years.
When the country was organized in 1795 these land grants
called for mauy hundred thousand acres of land, as will
be seen below, but the thousand and odd individuals to
whom these grants had been made, had divested themselves
of them prior to the first assessment of taxable property of
the county, probably in 1808, when these broad acres were
owned by less than three hundred individuals.
Among the numerous assessments of the property of Ran-
dolph county, filed away in the court-house at Chester, we
have selected one from which to quote, as it appears to be
the oldest on file. It has no date ; the lands assessed were
described by metes and bounds only ; not an acre seemed to
have been properly managed. This assessment was in all
probability made by David Robinson, Sr., who was ap-
pointed county assessor March 12th, 1808.
LANDS IN RANDOLPH COUNTY.
Extrnci from the Assessment of probably 1808 — This ap-
parently oldest assessment of Randolph county kept on file
is not dated, nor signed, yet it is very carefully made up,
and shows that 435,800 acres of land were in the possession of
individuals. None of the tracts owned had been surveyed,
and they are described in the following way as for instance :
Situated "on the Kaskaskia, seven or eight miles above the
village," or "on the Okaw, si.\ miles below Horse Prairie,"
or "adjoining the Jesuits' land," or " on the road to fort
Charters, opposite the village of Kaskia," or ''situation un-
known," or " ten leagues up the Ohio River," or " on the
Confiscation of Umds by the authorities of His Majesty, the King of Great
The Britisli authorities, in malving tlic land grants and donations, would
occasionallydispo-sess the original owners of their homesteads and donate the
same to loyal siittjects of His Majesty.
The first document of this kind was made out at Fort Chartres, November
]2th, 1767, by Gordon Forbts, Captain 34th Regimei.l, in manner and form as
follows:
By virtue of the power and authority in me invested, Ido herelty grant unto Mr-
James Ruinsey, late lieutenant of His Majesty's 34th Regiment, a certain tract
of land containing acree in front from the river Kaskaskia to tlie Missis-
sippi, once the j roperty of one La Bauhon, whereon formerly did stand a water
mill, the remains of which are now to be seen. The whole being agreeable to
His Majesty's Proclamation, confiscated to the King and is hereby given lo James
Rumsey in consideration of His Excellency. General Gage's Recommendation,
and for the good exampleo{ a speedy seltlement of His Majesty's colony, as like-
wise the frame of a house with a lot of land thereunto appeitaining opposite
the Jesuit college in the village of Kask.i.«kias.
In many instances the original owners were allowed to sell their property, as
will appear from the following:
Fort Chartres. ss. (no date.)
Permission is hereby granted to Alexis La Plante, inhabitant of Kaskaskias
in the Illinois country, to sell, or dispose of, the house, and granted him from
Colonel John Reed, latecommandant of the said country of the Illinois. ,\nd I
do hereby declare that whomsoever of His Majesty's iifjj Subjects may pur-
chase the same that he or they, etc. shall be and are hereby declared to be
legally possessed of the same without any hindrance, let, incumbrance or tax
whatsoever.
Mississippi some thirty miles above the mouth of the Ohio,"
or " right below Tower Rock," or "on Clark's trail to Vin-
cennes," etc., etc. This land was owned by less than 300
individuals, and in parcels ranging from two or three to over
100,000 acres. The largest land-holders were Gen. John
Edgar, who paid tax on 130,400 acres; Robert Morri-
son had 34,000, William Morrison 24,800, James O'Hara
15,200, John Rice Jones 1(3,400, Pierre Menard 12,000,
Richard Lord 11,200 acres, etc. Linds in cultivation were
assessed at 12.00, lands " improved " at 81 50, " wild " lands
located at $1.00, and wild lands not located at 75 cents per
acre. The assessed value of all those lands amounted to
§418,072, and the tax levied, at 75 cents per 100 dollars
value, to $3,135.54.
26,262 acres are mentioned as fields and are assessed at
$2.00 per.acre, and one three acre tract, owned by William
Murray, is assessed at $2 00 per acre.*
The present limits of the county did not contain much
more than one-fifth of those 435,800 acres, as will appear
from the following lengthy statement of lands of Randolph
county owned by individuals in 1820. The 26,262 acres in
fields were principally located in and around Katkas^kia
and Prairie du Rocher, with the exception of about one-fifth
located in the south part of Monroe.
List of lands entered and occupied by individuals in
Randolph county in 1820.
TOWN.SHIP 4 S. 3 W.
Mar, (i,l«1') \:ilV,:in T'lvi., K JS.W.S, m .Sept. Id, l«l«
A^g.,^,l-I^ I r,;,,. rl,\\v 17, 160 ; Aug. :■., 1 • 1 - -
NdV.lT. 1-1- I ,i: ■ - ' : ' 'i- 1 :NB.l8, 80 ; Oct.l. 1-1- r
Nov.l7,l-l-> -inl.l. 1. 1.1, N JS 13.1!), 8U i Oct. 1, 1-1- I
Sept. lO.ISls John M, liill, N,E. 21, ICO ! Oct. I, Islx F
Apr. .30, lsl« John McDill, S.E. 21,
Sept. V.I, 1818 John McPill, .N'.W. 22.
Sept. I'.i, ISIS Hugh McKchy, W. 2
-Kolvy, N,E, 27, KiO
lili, Ji- s w. :i", IM
iti>-, E,2 N E,3ll,S0
ii.ny. W. 2:.3, 320
patty, E. 2S,E, 33, 80
160 Apr. 30,1810 Joseph Cathcart, N.W.35, Ico
ICO j
:r., 320 I Total, 2oo4
TOWNSHIP 5 S. 5 W.
Acres. Acres.
Dec. .31, 1819 John Dickev. Jr. .S.W.3, Ico ' June 30, 1817 N. Pope A W.Harrison,
Dec. 3, 1818 James Munford, S E. 3, ir.) j N.E. 20, 160
Oct, 1. 1818 VVm. Marshall. W.2 N.W.4, 70 , June 30, 1817 N. Pope * W. Harri.«ori,
Oct. l,i,1818 J. McMillan, W.2S.W. 5, so S,K, 2(i. 1(X)
Dec. 17, 1818 J. McClurken, S.W. C,
Dec. 17, 1818 J, McCUlrken.S.W, 7,
Feb. 25, 1819 A I.- \- AIi-mi^.I ■> . \ K
Dee. 27, 1819 ■^■■'■' '- ' . . :, ■ - r.T, b," \u'- JI, l-l- An--
Apr. 7,1818 ]::■" V , ■,, u : \ r -, -II ,lnlK J", 1,-1- K Ih
Mar.3,1818 .Iiuiu - Ami, :-,,n, ~ W s, b,(i Mil-. ,-, IMS ,1. Mi
July29,1818 J.i J. lluggiii", \V.2S.ES,80 Aug, 8. Isls J. Mii
Nov.2«,181SSamuel Xeviit.S.W.lO, ICO , May 27, 1818 Mi.;i.
May 2C, 1819 Wm. Vann, W, 2 X.E. 17, 80 June2.'i,isi7 A. L:ui.k-iall, W, 2 N-\V.32, so
Aug. 20, 1818 Wm. Vann, W. 2 N.W. 17, ICO Feb, 24, 1819 J, Uo« .rman, W, 2 S, W, :l;t, 80
Mar. 3, 1818 James Anderson, N.E. 18, ICO I ■
Apr. 10, 1815 Wm. Morrison, 19, Oil ' Tot.al, 3835
TOWNSHIP 6 S. 5 AV.
151 June 311, 1817 N. Pope .t \V.
ept, 2?, 1«IS M. B..W.-ITI1II
, K, 21, 160
, 111, irn
Acre
Feb. 21, IM'i .1 I'.r.bi
Apr
1-1 ,,1,
n r II-.
r,S
.W.A.'
.E.7
Apr
2'.i
i-r> ,1.
11 IvIl'
ir.
W.2,
Jul\
31
ISlC J.
Bowerr
lU
, S.W
9,
Oct.
12
1818 E
i Short
.N
E, 11,
Feb
.-,
1818 S.
Baker
N.
2S,E,
11.
Oct.
12
1818 E
i Short
W
2 N.W. 12
Dec
31
181C J.
Bowerr
nal
,N. 2
1*,
n, N.E. j, 160 I Oct. 12, 1816 George Steel, N. E. ir., ici)
, E, 2 N.W. 5, 88 I July 31, 1816 J. Ilowerman, N.W. 16, icil
N.2N.W.C, 94 Oct, 12, 1816 George .Steele, S. 2, 16, 320
320 I Sept. 30, 1814 James White, AV. 2, 17, 320
320 j Apr. 11, 1818 John. Steele, E. 2 S.W. 21, 80
160 I Sept 30, 1814 John Steele, S.W. 28, 160
160 I Apr. 14, 1818 John Layne, W. 2 N.E. 29, 80
Total,..*...
.,3062
« Murray bought this three-acre tract as the agent of the firms of Moses and
Jacob Frank.s of London, and David and Moses Franks, of Philadelphia, on
the 8th of August, 1771, of Charles Cadron, dit. St. Pierre of St. Philip, village
in the Illinois country, yeoman and M:rrie Jeanne Merrier, his wife, for 300
poumls. On it was a water-mill and a large stone dwelling-house, on the road
from Fort Chartres to St. Philip.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
99
TOWNSHll" , !
Oct. 3, 1818 Adam Storm, E. 2, S.W. 3 SO
Nor. 18. 1817 .John CrPnslmw. N. 2, U. 3-2i) | j^,^
Jan. 1, islli .lolin .1. Honry, S.E. 14, 100 | '
Aug. 3M, Isls TI10.S. li..l.i-its, S.E. 31, IGO
TOWX.SH11- S S
Claims and Surveys — not tlatetl.
B. Thelwo, O. l.Vio, S. 732
Aug.
Jan.
Apr. .
Aug.
Aug.
Aug.
Acres.
, IKU \V rtuil.lprlmck,S.W.17, 121
isu W. A c. nuildoiliafk,
l.art N.K. 18, 106
l.si:, Win. M.-In(..sli, N. 2, N.
K. 20, 80
Total :«1
TOWNSHIP 4 S. 6 W.
Acres. 1 ;
,, ISIS .lolin Miiiifonl, S. W.IO, 145 ' Aug. 1.'., Lsls .In... M.-Millan. N. V. -.^
I. 1.S1S H. L.'Sli.-. K. 2. S.W. 20, sol Oct. 7,1818 Jumes c .ui'll, S.W. 31,
, 181S H. l.c^li... W. 2, S.E. 20, 80 , A. HudKe, A J. Murd.ic
,, ISIS W.f. Mallard, E.2,S.K. 2.1, So] E.2.S.|.:.:i
,, 1818 \V. C. Ballard, N. 2, 24, 320 Aug. 18, 1S18 A Hodge i A. B.ir.k i
., 1818 W. C. Ballard, N. W. 2>, 100 W. 2, S. W. :!
:7, 1818 W. E.l^ar, \V. 2. S.W. 25, 80 Aug. 18, 1818 .1 McMillan, S. E. 3.'.,
17, 1818 Samuel Little, N.W. 20, ICO
17, 1518 Patrick Hanus, W. 2, X. I Total
W.
80
July 12.
Feb. 10.
Aug, V,.
Oct. 1,
Aug. 20.
Aug. ir.,
Apr. 2.1.
July 2,
July 2,
July 2,
TOWNSHIP 5 S. C W.
Acres. [
Ihivi.l Mi-MillanS. E. 3, 100 | Oct. 13, ISI7 .li.lin Wiley. S. E. 1
Andrew H.irdera N.E. 4, 135 ; Sept.Al. 1.^17 J..lin Heaty, S. W.
lohn Lively S.W. 4, 100 Sept. 20, 1817 Jas. .Mcfhirken.S.]
vVm. Elli.itt, E. 2, S E 4, 80 \ Sept. 22, 1813 W. Morris, E. 2, N.V
lohn Lively, N. E. 0, 100 ! Apr. Z\ ISl.'i Wm. Melntosli, Ser
Francis Beatly, S. W. 9, 100 Oct. 2tl, 1817 WillianiMorris.S.V
John Lively, S. E. 0, 100 Dec. 12, 1S18 John Miller, N. W.
Joseph Weir, N. W. 10, 160 IJec. 12, 1818 Jolin Wiley, N. E. :>
Wm. Mcintosh, sec. 12, 040 | Dee. 12, 1818 John Miller, N. W.
Jas. Patterson, N. W.13, 100 Sept. 20, 1817 S.Crawford, E.'2,S.\
John Mc Dill, S. E. 13, 100
Jas. P.atter.son, N. 2, 14, 320 1 Total
TOWNSHIP 6 s. G w.
Jan. 10, 1818 D. Looney. E. 2, N. W. 3, 71 Apr. 10, isi.i Wm. Morrison, S. 2,
Apr. 10, 1810 Wm. Morrison, S. 2.3, 320 : Sept. 24, 1814 KeuI.en Lacev. X.W
Oct. 3, 1818 C. Glover, W. 2, S. W. 4, 80 ; Sept. 24, 1814 John La.-ey, X. W. 1
Apr. 21, 1815 .Tohn Pillars, S. E. 4, 100 j Xov. 8, 1817 Cath. Coddle. S.W. 1,
June2C, 1819 John Taggart.S.W. 7, 151 [ Apr. 10, 1815 Wni. Morrison, X. 2,
i John Pillars, N. E. !!, 100 „, -
■"- --■ ^- 2' W. 32" Pierre Menard'
Apr. 21, 1
Apr. 21,1
Apr. IS. 1
Apr. 18, 1
and Suirei/s.
I J.Mcnonough,X.E.ll,
iJ.McD. ngh,X.W.I2, 100! Total..
Claims and Snrveyt.
? Mcnanl
,ar.l, hrs
TOWNSHIP 7 S. 6 W.
I Acres.
Acres. Aug. 19,1818 A. Smith, E. 2, X. E. 20, no
Sepl.2l,lsH HenjaminCrain,S.W..22, lOo
Dee. 10, ISl'J Pierre Menaid, X.W. 27, loo
McRoberts 300
Total 2IUO
June 12, 1818 S.amuel Man.s:
Jan. '23, 1819 Henry Kcil, fra
TOWNSHIP S S. 6 W.
TOWNSHIP 4 S. 7 W.
Elija
.Smith, hrs. clain
Mar. 4, 181s Gc
JulyC, 1818
Jan. 12, 1819
July e, 1818
Ocl.lo, 1817
Sep. 9, 1810
July 6, 1818
Jan. 4, 1815
Jan. 21, 1818
Jan. 7. 1SI9
Nov. 3.1817
Apr. 20, 1818
William lliggs
Elisha C.Hickox,X2,of 2,
Same. W2, N.W.
A. W. Snider, X.E. 4,
Jas. Morrison, W. 2, of 4,
Wm. Morrison, S.E. 4,
Jas. Morrison, N. 2, 5,
David Kulton, N. 2, 0,
Robt, Morrison, E.2,X. E.7,
Jas. Morri.son, X.W. 9,
Thomas Fulton. S.E. 9,
Jns.|ill (Mlllni, N W.19,
TI...IU 1- r.illl. , - W. 19,
J..hM \.|.iin.. 1: :,\,W. 20.
W. .M. L. Le Ll.apelle,
N.W. 21,
Apr. 20,
July 18,
(Sep. 1,
! Apr. 25,
1819 .'
1818 1
1817 '
1819 .:
>rge Wilson.N.E. 23, lUO
Thompson, jr. E. 2,
S.W.23 80
.Sam. Douglass, W.2,S.E.23, so
Wm. McBride, S.W. 24. 1.50
Thomas McBride. N.E.2C, 100
John Anderson, E. 2,
N.W. 20 80
100 ' Mar.2.->,1815 Otha Levens, S.W. 29, 144
Paul Harlson, N.W. 30, 129
Otha Levens, S.E. 30, loo
Thomas Levens, N.W. 31, 12!l
David Anderson, jr. S.W.32, 44
A. St. Francisco, hrs. N.E.
N.W. .33 11
Andrew Beatty, S.E. 30, 100
Total. 5218
270 I Apr. 24, 1815
I Mar. 25, 181.:
Apr. 28, 1815
Apr.2i,18l5
Sep. 30, 1816
TOWNSHIP 5 S. 7 W.
'. 400 Sep.30,1816 A. St. Francisco, hoirs.
John Edgar, " " 300 | S-W. 17 160
John Pettit, " " 100 Sep. 28, 1816 Robt. Morrison. S.E. IS, 100
Dec. .30,1818 .loseph Pratton.S.E.of 3, 100 Aug.21. 1818 Henry Conner, N.E. 21, 100
Apr.22, 1815 DavidAnderson,W.2,of5, 320 I May 1, 1S15 Jas. Thompson, S.E. of 22, 160
Dcc..30,1819 Joseph Pratton.N.E.of 10, 1,56 Jan.2G, 1819 Thos. Sirahan, N.W.of 27, 100
I>ec..30,lsn Wash'g'nSt..rrets.S.W.10,107 I •' " John Irvin, S.W. 27. 160
•Sep. 23. 1814 Jas. Patterson. S.E. 10, li;o 1 Aug. 3. 1819 Wm. Th.jmpson.S.E. 28, 160
.Same, S.W. 11, liai ; Jan. 0, 1815 A. .McCormack, W. 2 33, 320
Jan. 6, IslS Robert McMann.N.E. 14. 100 Jan. 0. 1S15 Wm. Tumbrell, .S.E. 33, 99
Dec.l..i,lsl8 John Rankin, N.2,N.W.l.-., so |
Tolal 3,642
TOWNSHIP G s. 7 w.
Acres. 1 Arces.
Heirs of J. Anderson, I May 1, 1810 Thos. Slatter.fr.S.W. 18, 79
claim and survey 400 j Jun.10,1810 John Fult.in. sr., S.E.ia. 143
Urather and Similey, [ Ap. 20, 1816 John Edgar, fr. sec. 19, 168
400 Ap. 29, 1815 Staecy McDonough,
Stacy McDonough,
claim and survey
John Pettil, claim anil
survey 100 , Fl.
Heirs of Henry Si
N.E. 20 .
160
Legal representatives
of .1. Montgomery,
John Rii
and sui
Jon
John Edgar
Pierre Menard I,;
Heirs of C. 4 R. Dniry
Village tract of Kas-
P. 11. Roberts
Robert Reynolds
Diego Kodreique
May 15, 1817 Jacob Harnian, fr.,
S.W. 7
.Mr. 24, 1S19 Stacey McDonough,
X.E. 8
Jan. 14,1818 Amos Anderson. S.E. 12,
Oct. 10,1818 William Coddle, X.E. 1:1
Ag. 31.1S10 llb.a.liah ri.-l.ls, S.E. l:i,
400 : Ap. 10, 1817 John Edgar, bal. sec. W, 459
Ag. 31, 181S Henry Conner, X.E. 21, 160
1,1817 Stacey McDonough,
N.W. 21 100
400 Mr. 1.5, 1817 C.iIvinLawrence,S.W.2I, 160
Ag. 10, 1817 Edward Coles, fr. S.E.21, 93
A p. 4, 1818 Joseph Jay, E. 2, N.E. 23. 80
4110 Jan.20,lslS Silas Crisler, W. 2,
N.E. 24 80
200 No. 17, 1810 Aaran (Juick, X.W. 24, li»l
.I11I. 4, 1817 Joseph Harman,S.W.24, 100
1,415 Ai-. 30, 1817 Jonathan Petii', S.E. 24, 160
2.22..1 Oct. 17, 1818 John Hannard. E. 2,
S.E. 26 80
.250 Jul. 30, 1819 John Richardson, sr.,
W. 2, S.W. '27 80
232 Xo. 21,1817 William Morrison, fr.
BOO E. 2, 28 108
:i,50 Ag. 10, 1817 Edward Coles, fr.N.W.
KX).
28..
46
' Sep. .30.1810 P. Menard 4 A. Perry,
X.E. 29 147
Ap. 22. 1817 Abijali Levett. W. 2, 29, 203
Sep. :iii, 1810 Pierre Menard and A.
I'erry, fr. S.E. 29 30
Sep.3n.lsl.i John Edg.ar. fr. W. 2, 30. 59
Fb. 11), 1,^17 .lano Rippey, S.E. 30, 145
Jun
2. ISl-
James Hughes. W. 2. 17. 310
A p.
JUD
.>7. 1.<1.
10,1811
J..lni K.lgar. S.K. 17. Ifio
.lohn Kullon.sr.. X.E.IK, 120
TOWNSHIP
Acres.
John R. Jones, cl. ,t sur., 2098
John Rappico.cl.isur., 39
Wm. Morrison, cl. and
sur. in 7-7 A 7-.8 277
John Edgar.el. and sur.
in 7-7 .1- 7-8 12'JO
Joseph McPherson, cl.
andsur. in7-7.t7.a... 134
T..lal .
and sur. in 7-7 i 7-8
Widow Godin. .alias Go
angeau, cl. and sur. ;
. 13,35:
Bii
278
7 7 ,1 :
76
Michael Danie, cl. and Ale.iis Blaurais, cl. and
sur. in 7-7 * 7-8 31 sur. in 7-7 A 7-8 45
Antoinc Bienvenue, .1. James Morrison, cl. aud
and sur. in 7-7 ,1 7-8... HI sur. in 7-7 i 7-8 94
James llaggins, cl, aii.l J. li. Laderout. el. and
sur. in 7-7 and 7-s li«i sur. in 7-7 ,(: 7-9 36
JamesGilbrealh.el.au.l n.l II, 1S17 .I..hn Clendenin. N.W.2, 160
sur. in 7-7 and 7-8 lai Inc. 2. Isl7 Henry Pettit, X.E. 3, 100
Pierre Menard, cl. and July 7, 1818 Wm. Morrison, X.E. 4, 100
sur. in 7-7 and 7-8 941 X... 27, 1817 Rachel Green, W. 2,
L.iuis Ladcr..iil, cl. and S.E. 4, 80
sur. ill 7-7 and 7-8 127 M.ar. 0,1818 Elijah C. Berry, fr. s. 5, 272
Louis rhaml.erlanl, cl. Jan. 7, 1818 Jolin McFerron, W. 2,
and -iir. :u 7-7.1- ,V 7-8 13.5 S.W. 4 80
Joseph Archambeau. el. Apl. 0, 1818 W. T. Williams. S.W. 13, 100
and sur.in 7-7 .V 7-8.... 90 Jan. .5. 1817 Wm. Oliver. W. part. 14. 154
Joseph Devignc's heirs, Ap. 18, 1815 John .VcFerron, pt. S.W.
cl. A sur. in 7-7* 7-8... 67 U liU
L. G. Chamberlant, cl. Fb. 16,1818 William Oliver, S.E. 14, loo
and sur. in 7-7 A 7-8... 114 Sep.28,1814 Saml. Cochran, X.E. 15, 100
J..hnRice Jones, cl. and
sur. in 7-7 .t 7-8 105 T.ilal 8317
TOWNSHIP 4 s. .S W.
.\i'r.'8. Acres.
Henry Levens, cl. ami Ap, 11, 1815 W. Rector A E. Barcrofl.
siir.4A5S. 8 3i«) S E. 1 ICO
John Edg.ar, cl. and sur. Jul 24, 1819 Wm. Peach, W. 2, S.E. 2, 80
4-8 loO Jul. 24, 1819 Saml. Abbolt,E.2,X.W..5, 80
My.20,1817 BinlardA Nove, N.pt.l, 280 Oct. 30. 1818 G. Taylor, Jr.,S.E.-N.E.O, 38
100
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
TOWNSHIP 4 S. 8 W.
Acres.
Mnr.e, 181« Samuel Crozier, N.E. 8, 160
Jan. 2.1S18 Jb. B. Bull, E. 2, N. W.8, 80
Ap. 21, 1817 Naney Garner. W. 2,
S.W. 9 SO
Ap. 29, 1815 Cliecqueur and others,
S.E. 12 100
De. 24,1817 Isaac Husband, S.E. 24, 100
De. 12, 1817 Paul Haralson, \V.2, N.E,
of 25 8(1
Ap. 24. 1815 Paul Haralson, S.E. 25 160
Jnn.10,18'0 Robert Foster, S.W. 29, 100
Jan.11,1819 James Kinney,W.2,S.W.
:13...
80
TOWNSHIP
Acres
Robert Reynolds, cl. A
survey, 40(
Pierre Menard, cl
No.22,1817 Abner Koek.N.E. 3.'i IGO
Ap. 28, 1815 Thomas Levens, N.E.31, 100
De. 23, 1817 Isaac Husband, N.W. 30, 100
Ap. 28,1815 Thos. Levens, fr. S.W. 30, 02
Mr. 30, 1810 Caldwell Games, S.E. 36, 100
Total 3-240
8 w.
Apr. 28, 1815 Thos. Levens, S E 2..,
Dec. 22, 1818 Henry 0'Hara,fl ac.S(
rvey ..
400
John Bl.iird (probably
Dralrd),cl. and survey 400
Levin Cropper, cl. and
Jno. Rice Jones, cl. and
survey 400
Peler Menard, cl. & snr.,
in 5-8 4 6-8 340
P. D. Roberts, el. S sur.,
in 5-8 A C-8
PiatlieriSmily, cl.
. 3300
i .t I
400
llay.l"
du Rocher, cl. A sur.,
in 5-8 ,t 5-0 0102
L. & B. Laderoute, cl. &
sur., in 5-8 A 5-9 337
John Edgar, part in 5 A
C S.— S A 9 W 002
Wm. Morrison, part in
6 A OS.— 8 A 9 W 040
Apr. 28,1815 Caldwell Carne.=, frac.
W2of 1 1S7
Dec. 24, 1817 Isaac Husband, S E of
Apr. 28, 1815 Thos. Levens, N E 2....
Jan. 2, 1819 David Lanson, E 2S W 2
Sep. 18, 1819 Peter Smith, N E of 9...
Aug. 7, 1819 Jas. Whelan, E 2 N W 9
Sep. 30, 1814 Thos. Levens, N 2 12....
Aug. Ill, 1814 David Fulton, fr. S.2 of
13 195
Aug.29,1815 John Edgar, N. 2 of 14.. 320
Jan. 5, 1818 Jos. H. Orr, S.W 15 160
Oct. 19, 1818 Wm. Steel, pts. of sec-
tions IS and 19 302
Oct. 0, 1818 J. 4J. Dunlop,N.E,of 19 160
Dec.l2, 1818 Henry Kinnel, W. 2 N.
W. SO 80
Apr. 17, 1815 Amos Paxton, E 2 S.W.
TOWNSHIP 5 S. 9 w. — Continued.
Monsieur Denegro he
Widow Dennyer heirin
Widow Hebert heirs .
Anloine Riviere, clain
5-9 and 5-10 237
J. B. Boquette heir.s claim and sur.
part 5-0 and 5.10 03
Henry Carpenter heirs claim and
sur. part 5-8 and .5-10 35
Joseph Hortiz heirs claim and sur.
part 5-9 and 5-10..: 42
John Edgar heirs claim and sur.
part 5-9 and 5-10 85
Deb. 10, 1818. Samuel LeardS.W. of 1 160
20.
80
June 8, 1818 Edwd. Mudd, W. 2 S W.
of 20 80
June 1,1818 Norton Hull, E.2S.W.21 80
May 22, 1818 Thos. Orr, S.E. 21 160
May 1,1815 J. Dodge, S.W. 22 160
Aug.10,1818 James Wilson, N.2of24 294
Sep. 14,1819 John Hathorn,fr. N.-2 of
ISli
Jan. 9, 1815 Archibald Thompson, fr.
S.2 of 2.-,
Apr. 29, 1815 Wm.Reclor,parts of sec-
tions 34 and 35
Jan. 19, 1815 A. Thompson, parts of
sections 'Ad and 30
Joseph Belle
part in 5-!
Joseph Lamii
part i
Tola
heii
Total..
Pierre R. Gidin heirs claim and sur. 79
August Allard heirs claim and sur. 90
lias Jarret heirs claim and sur. 88
George Wiimer heirs claim and sur. 89
Joseph Bellcour heirs claim and sur. 93
Antoine Riviere Heirs claim and sur. Gli9
Jacques Routillet heirs claim and sur. 50
Pierre Le Compte heirs cl. and sur. 280
Andree Barbeau heirs claim and sur. 51
Louis Peareau heirs claim and sur. 60
John Edgar heirs claim and sur. 431
Ambrose A Vasseur hs. cl. and sur. 136
Du Boiher vill»ge sq. hs. cl. and sur 397
R. Robinson and R. Morrison
heirs claim and survey 147
Jean B. Boquette heirs claim and sur. 85
Ignace Laroche tieirs claim and sur. 213
TOWNSHIP 6 S. 9 W
Acres.
John Edgar and J. Murray cl. and
Jr. part in 6-9 and 0-9 1677
John Edgar heirs cl. and sur. part
in .6-9 and 0-9 : 1589
B. Barbeau heirs claim and sur.
part in 6-9 and 6-9 260
P. G. dit Peaureau heirs claim and
ar. part in 69 and 0-9 58
August Allard heirs claim and sur.
part in .5-9 and C-9 116
A. A L. Lapeur heirs claim and sur.
pact in .6-9 and 0-9 309
Louis Pettit heirs claim and sur.
part in 5-9 and 6-9 117
Clement Dniry heirs claim and sur.
part iu 5-0 and 6-9 241
Saurier Louvier heirs claim and sur.
part in 5-9 and 6-9W 481
TOWNSHIP 5 S. 10 W
Acres.
John Edgar claim and .sur. Island
opposite Fort Chartres 1047
Widow Hebert part in Monroe Co... 370
John Edgar part in Monroe Co 260
M. Philebot part iu Monroe Co 142
KECAPITULATION.
jands in Randolph county owneil by individuals prior to lli
ands
83
. and £
. part
5568
Acres.
151
d 6-9...
heirs cl. and sur.
6-9and6-9 192
claim and sur.
part in ,6-9 and 0-9 131
A. Roy neirs claim and sur. part
in 6.9 and 6-9 373
Jacques Boutillet heirs claim and
sur. part in 6-9 and 0-9 117
he
sur. part in 5-9 and (
.iutoine de Louvier h*
s claim and
258
part in 5-9 and 0-9..
Unappropriated heirs claim and
sur. part iu 5-9 and 6-9 105
. 1205
John Edgar, cl. A
Timotliy Demonbro
claim and survey
Not located els. & si
Pierre Menard, cl. A
Kaskaskia Indians, cl.
and survey 443
Jt)s. Person and others,
claim and survey . ... 160
Widow La Chapelle, cl.
TOWNSHIP 6 S. 8 W.
. 7l>84
J as. Mo
, cl. A !
Wm. Mcintosh, cl. A sur
Heirs Etienne Pevard,
clain
M.adan
nd survey..
Robt. Reynolds.cl. Asl
Jas, Kinltaid, cl, A si
AntoineBuyat, nl. A si
Heirs of B. Richard,
vey..
Sr.,
Antoine Bien
cl. and survey
Jacob Judy, cl. A sui
Jo-. Morrison, cl. Asm
Hens of Michael Dan
claim and survey
Wul■l^^ ToiTongeau, c
and survey
Wm. Morrison, cl.Asu
Antoine La Chapelle, cl.
an 1 survey 22
Genevieve Buyat, claim
and survey 49
1 Lafaruqtie, cl.
and survey, G-S A C-9... :
Jos. Tullieur A others,
cl. A survey, li-8 A G-9.,
Nov. 13, 1816 Geo, Fislier, fr, S,W of
Nov. 13,1810 Geo, Fisher, fr, N,W. of
Nov, 13,1816 Gei
June 10, 1816 Jas
ction 9
., Fisher, fr, S, pt, of
Sla
fr, 8,E, of
J, B. Boquette part in Mo
Ignaoe Le Grass part in I
Joseph Bellccour part iu
Total
Acre
2004 T"
«l,ip
■ W.
I 7 - 7 W
18119
W.
,. 13,347
.. 8317
.. 3240
.. 18,824
.. 13,008
TmiHsh-l
Township 1. S. 8 W,
Township 7 S. 8 W 240
Township 5 S. 9 W 5568
Township G S. 9 W 0448
Township 6 S. 10 W., pt. in Monroe 2911
Total..
. 102,8!
o, heir
Sept. 30, 1816 A.St. Francis
fraction S.E. of 14 101
Sept. 30, 1810 A.St. Franciac , heirs,
fraction N.E, of 23 40
Sept. 30, 1816 Jno,Edgar,parts of 23 A
171
Sept, 30,1810 Jas. Slatter, fr. N.E. of
24..
Sept. 30, 1816 Shadrach Bond, fr. pts.
of 25
Sept. 30, 1810 Shadrach Bond, fr. pts.
of 36
73
IchabetCamp, he
Antoine Bienvei]
Total 13,000
TOWNSHIP 7 S. 8 W.
Menard, claim and survey 240
Total ■■■ 2«
TOWNSHIP 5 S. 9 W.
Acres.
) and survey 800
1 and survey 715
Town«hip4 S. 5 W
Townships S. 5 W
Township G S. 6 W
Township 7 S. 5 W
Township 8 S, 5 W
Dship 4 S, 6 W
nship 5 S, 6 W 4076
Township G S, 6 W 3087
nship 7 S, GW 2100
nship 8 S, 0 W 304
Township 4 S, 7 W 3218
Township 5 S, 7 W 3042
GOVERNMENT OF THE COUNTY IN TERRITORIAL TIMES.
The administration of the county in its infancy, from 1795
to 1803, was entrusted to a court of common pleas, organized
in 1795, and composed of John Edgar, William Morrison,
Pierre Menard, Robert McMahan, George Fisher, John
Beaird, Robert Reynolds, Nathaniel Hull, Antoine Louvier,
John Grosvenor, James Finney and Samuel Cochran. These
gentlemen were territorial or United States justices of the
peace, and as such members of the court of common pleas.
The minutes of this court could not be found, and so it is
impossible to give an account of the earlier transactions,
1795 to 1803. From subsequent minutes it may be inferred,
however, that the first " court-house," probably built by
Todd in 1779, was not longer inhabitable; that it, together
with the lot on which it had been erected, had been sold to
William Morrison and Dr. George Fisher, who, in 1803,
were dunned by the county officials for balances due by them
to the county on account of said purchase. Morrison owed
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
101
a balance of $25 for the lot, aud the Doctor owed $60 for
the stone of the court-house.
James Dunu, sheritl" prior to 1803, built the first county
jail at Kasfeaskia, and received $j70 35 for it July 12,1803.
C'onrity Commmionrr.% 1803 to 1809. The first meeting
of these oflicers was held July 4, 1803, at the dwelling-house
of Robert Morrison, where he and his colleagues, Paul Ha-
ralson and James Gilbreath, took the oath of office before
John Edgar, Esq., ami then adjourned. Their next meeting
was held at the house of Mrs. Turcott. on the 12lh of July,
1803, when William Wilson, county surveyor since 1795,
was appointed secretary of the commissioners, in place of
Paul Haralson, who had declined to act any longer. (Paul
had acted as secretary at the 4th of July meeting, and writ-
ten twenty-one words as secretary ) From the minutes of
the I'Jth of July, it would appear that William Kelly was
the first coroner of the county, for he was then allowed a
claim of 8-9.89, for holding an inquest over the body of a
man found dead on the Massac road in 1796.
The court held their subsequent meetings in the house of
Louis Laderout, and paid him 811.50 rent October 18, 1803.
The county had been divided into five townships by the court
of common pleas, and the county commissioners retained
this subdivision. The townships were named Kaskaskia,
Prairie du Rocher, Williamsburg, Mitchie and Springfield.
An assessment of personal property was ordered on the
13lh of January, 1894, and the following forces put to work :
For Kaskaskia — John Grosvenor and Joseph Pago ; for
Mitchie — James McRoberts and William Cliafhu ; for
Springfield — William Kelly; for Prairie du Rocher — Nico-
las Mya (Meyer), John Evert, Sr., and Prince IJryan.
This seems to have been the last term of the county com-
missioners' court, as it adjourned " without a day," after
allowing wolf-scalp premiums — to John Griffin for 14, Otho
Levens and Jonathan Petit for 4 each, John Hornbeck for 2
and Parker Grosvenor, Robert McMahan and Robert Hug-
gins for 1 each.
The administrative functions of the county were next
performed by a court, styled orphans' court, compo.sed of
the following justices : Pierre Menard, John Bcaird, George
Fisher, Robert Reynolds, Robert McMahan and John Gros-
venor, from 1804 to 1808. From minutes kept by this court
it would appear that it devoted its atteution to probate busi-
ness almost exclusively. Once only, on March 7, 180b, some
political measures are mentioned. Same territory of the
county, heretofore a wilderness, had gradually been settled
and become the home of a few families possessed of " taxable "
property, whereu|)on the court deemed it proper to organize
tliese parts as townships. The five original townships were
retained and the following new ones added :
Rocking Cave. — To commence at range Hue 7 east of the
3d principal meridian, running north with said line until it
intersec s the county line between Randnlph and St. Clair.
Tliis description ij vague. The new township must have
comprised the present counties of White, Gallatin, and Har-
din, and eastern parts of Hamilton, Saline, and Pope.
Massac. — To commence at range line 2 east of the 3d
principal meridian; running due north till it strikes Big
Muddy river. This township comprised the present coun-
ties of Massac, Johnson, and Williamson, also west parts of
Hamilton, Saline, and Pope.
Mississippi. — To commence on the Mississippi, below Big
Muddy, and bounding on Massac township, running to the
mouth of the Ohio. This township contained the present
counties of Pulaski, Alexander and Union, and southeast
part of Jackson. The order for formation of these townships
is immediately followed by another, appointing assessors, to
wit : Samuel Omelveny for Rocking Cave, Hughes
for Mississippi, and f homas Ferguson for Massac.
Marie, or Marij. — Springfield township was divided by a
line beginning at Colonel Edgar's Ferry, on the Kaskaskia,
along the road leading to Harralson's ferry, on the same
river, until oppo. ite the house of Thomas Fulton ; thence
east to the Vincennes road with the same until it strikes the
boundary line of Knox county.
Scraps from the records of the period, 1795 to 1809. —
The first official mentioning of the name of Randolph county
is found in a record of deeds, when, November 7, 1795,
Lewis Germain and Mary his wife, of Kaskaskia, Randolph
coi.nty, in the Territory of the United States west of the
River Ohio, sold to William Mclutosh a one-sixth interest
in a tract of land at a place called the Big Spring, near the
road from Kaskaskia to Prairie du Rocher, about six miles
from Kaskaskia, containing in front 12 acres, and 90 acres
deep, between Pierre Lauglois and John Edgar, for twenty
dollars.
The prices at which lands sold in those times are very
irregular. 400-acre head rights were sold at from thirty to
two hundred dollars, and were frequently paid for in goods
at enormous prices. Militia rights, 100 acres, brought from
six to fourteen dollars; other donation rights sold at similar
rates, while the so-called improvement rights were seldom
sold for less than fifty cents per acre.
The largest land sale made in those days was that of
Pierre and Therese Menard to Charles Choquier and John
Holmes of Baltimore, wherein, for the sum of $9,000, nine
thousand two hundred aud thirty-three and one-third acres
were conveyed February 12, 1799. Menard's lands thus
sold consisted of twenty-one and one third head of family
rights, of 400 acres each ; and seven militia rights, of 100
acres each. His profits must have been considerable.
Lardner Clark sold his mill, distillery, dwelling-house,
and "gardens." situated east of the Kaskaskia river, to John
Edgar for S20 50, November 10, 1798. John Edgar had
apparently monopolized the purchasing of lands, the de-
serijition of which fills 172 consecutive pages iu the land
records of the county.
Marriages recorded during said period.
Nichola Jarrot and Marie C. Barbun, Sept. 22. 1795 —
solemnized bv Gabriel Richard. Curate of St. Joseph of
Prairie du Rocher. Joseph Danguiue and Marie Reine
Filet, Sept. 29 1795 — by the same. Antoine C. LaChance
and Jeanne Felicitee d'Amour Louviere, Nov. 9. 1795 — by
same. Antoine d'Amour Louviere and JIarie Louise Lang-
lois, Feb. 8. 1796— by same. Louis Allaire and Magdalene
102
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Degagnee, Feb. 5. 1796, by "Janin," Curate at Kaskaskia.
Alexis Paquin and "Archangel", April 21. 1796 by same.
Joseph Devigne and Julie Godin Tourangeau, Nov. 8. 1795,
by same. Joseph Langlois and Marie B. D. Toulons, Oct.
27. 1796. J. B. Perrin and Marguarete Grannon, Nov. 14,
1796, Joseph Sylvain and MarianeNuillier Devignie, Feb
28. 1797. Etienne L'Anglois and Cecile Candere, January
23. 1798. Francois L'Anglois and Marie Godin, Joseph Blai
and Marianne Lavone— same day by Gabriel Richard Curate.
The estate of Louis La Sand deceased was put under ad-
ministration on the 20th of November 1795, when his will,
dated Prairie du Eocher June 23. 1790, was proved. The
will is void of interest. The personal property consisted in
6 cows, valued from 15 to 20 dollars each, 1 yoke of steersi
60 dollars, 10 head of young cattle, valued from 7 to 12
dollars each, 3 horses, valued 40 dollars each.
The common law cases adjudicated during the period,
although quite numerous, are without any special interest,
and criminal cases there are none, except now and then an
assault and battery or liquor case, as for instance the Indict-
ment and fine of Ephraim Carpenter, innkeeper at Kaskas-
kia, who had sold liquor without license — in defiance of law
and to the evil example — for which misdemeanor he paid a
fine of five dollars and costs.
The election returns of that period h;.ve not been pre-
served. From documents preserved in the sister county St.
Clair, it appears that Shadrach Bond of Randolph defeated
Isaac Darneille of Cahokia [St. Clair] for "a representative
for to be sent to the General Assembly of the Territorry,"
at an election held in January 1799. Another election,
after the organization of the territory of Indiana, held on
the 7th of December 1802, to elect three representatives to
go to Vincennes and there to meet the convention to be held
there on the 20. of December for the purpose of sending our
grievances to Congress, resulted in the election of Shadrach
Bond sr., Jean Fran9ois Perry and John Murdock. May 21.
1805, Shadrach Bond, sr., was elected representative to the
territorial legislature of Indiana, and becoming a member
of the legislative council [senate] resigned in 1806, when
Shadrach Bond, jr., his nephew wa« elected to fill this va-
cancy. He was reelected in the following year, remaining
a representative of Randolph county until Illinois waa
formed into a separate territory.
The officers of the county during this period have been
mentioned above. The dates of their commissions could not
be ascertained. The sheriffs of that period were James
Dunn, 1795 to 1800, George Fisher from 1800 to 1803, James
Edgar 1803 to 1805 and James Gilbreath from 1805 to
1807. Robert Morrison was clerk of the court (.f quarter
sessions. William Wilson was county surveyor from 1795
to 1808, William Kelley coroner 1795 to 1808 and Lardner
Clark recorder of deeds. The organization of the territory
of Illinois, February 3. 1809 gave cause to a reorganization
of the two counties then existing, St. Clair and Randolph,
which was done by proclamation as follows :
Apbil 28, 1809.
Nathaniel Pope, Secretary of the Territory of Illinois,
and exercising the government thereof.
By virtue of the power vested in the Governor for the
prevention of crimes, injuries, and for the execution of
process, civil and criminal, within the territory, I have
thought proper, and by this proclamation, to divide the
Illinois territory into two counties to be called the county
St. Clair and the county of Randolph. The county of
Randolph shall include all that part of -the Illinois
Territory lying south of the line dividing the counties of
Randolph and St. Clair, as it existed under the govern,
ment of the Indiana Territory on the last day of February
in the year one thousand eight hundred and nine, — and the
county of St. Clair shall include all that part of the
Territory which lies north of said line.
Done at Kaskaskia, the 28th day of April, 1809,
and of the Independence of the United States,
the thirty-third. Nat. Pope.
The territory of the county remained the same as
heretofore. The population of the county, 1103 in 1800,
had now increased to about 7000. (The United States
Census of 1810 gave the county then a population of
7275.) The people were scattered over a vast area, but
fully one-half of the total population were located at Kas-
kaskia and its vicinity.
A reorganization of the county government took place
on the 3d of July, 1809, when William Arundel, Philip
Fouke and John Edgar, Esquires, Justices of the Peace,
with William C. Greenup as clerk, and Benjamin
Stephenson as sheriff, assembled at the house of Thomas
Cox and " held court."
1809 TO 1819.
In reading and examining the proceedings of the first
courts of various and diverse counties the writer observed
that the licensing of taverns is the first step usually taken.
The absolute want of public funds in all these new bodies
politic must have compelled the authorities to grantthose
licenses as the easiest and quickest mode of obtaining a
"revenue." And thus the records again show that Philip
Fouke was licensed as innkeeper at Kask^kia, taxed $12.00
per annum, and, being a man of " good character and
reliable withall," he was excused from giving the usual
bond; he was allowed to charge as follows: breakfast, 25
eta., dinner 37 i cts., supper 25 cts., lodging 12i cts., horse
to hay at night 25 cts., corn or oats 12* cts. per gallon,
French brandy, 50 cts. per half pint; whiskey, 12i cts. J
taffia or rum, 37* ; peach brandy or cherry bonnie, 25 cts.
William Morrison was licensed to keep a ferry from
opposite the "Little Rock" across the Mississippi, and
allowed to charge the following rates : four-horse team,
$3.00 ; two-horse team, $2 50 ; two-wheel carriages, with a
pair of horses or oxen, $2.00 ; with single horse or ox, $1.75 ;
man and horse, 62 J cts. ; single horse, 50 cts. ; single
person, 25 cts; "plunder," 12V cts. per 100 lbs.; neat
cattle per head, 50 cts ; hogs or sheep, 12* cts ; and planks,
25 cts. per 100 feet. The Kaskaskia ferry rates were lower,
to wit: Single person above 77 years of age, 6i cts.; man
and horse, 12* cts.; single horse, 6i cts. ; cart and oxen or
horses, 25 cts ; wagon and team, 50 cts. ; grown cattle, 61^
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY' COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
103
eta ; cattle under two years of age, sheep or hogs, 3i cts.
each.
The labors of the county court were performed by
justices of the peace, three of whom would form a quorum,
until January, 1810. A territorial law, pa.ssed December
22d, 1809, created county courts, to be composed of three
judges who were appointed by the governor. Before pro-
ceeding further we would here introduce a
LIST OF TOWNSHIP OFFICERS — IS09.
Justices of the Peace. — The early Justices of the Peace
held their offices by appointment, and it was not until 182"
that the people were deemed competent to elect their town-
ship judicial officers. The general view on the subject seems
to have been that the dignity of the " Squire " would be
or was in danger of being lowered by the vulgarity of elec-
tions.
The governor of the territory appointed the justices at
the suggestion of the county commissioners, or " at will,"
and the commissions issued to those dignitaries smack of
monarchical origin, his excellency the governor using the
plural number of the personal pronoun when referring to
his own persou.
The following gentlemen seem to have acted as justices in
1809:
Philip Fouke, William Arundel, Henry Levens, Pierre
Le Coute, P. Harralson, David Anderson, Jean B. Bar-
beau, Robert Gaston, Archibald Thompson, John Guithing,
John Edgar, James M. Roberts, John McFerron, John
Bradshaw, i^amuel Omelvany, George Robinson, George
Hacker, Jas. Lemon, Thomas Ferguson, Hamlet Ferguson,
John Phelps, and Marion Fuller.
Overseers of the Poor. — Ralph Drury, John Evert fur
Mitchie ; Clement Drury, Pierre Le Conte, fur Du Rocher;
John Gibson, A. Langlois, for Kaskaskia ; Joseph Clen-
denin, Henry Leven, for Williamsburg ; John Beaird, Paul
Heilston, for Springfield; George Hecker (Hacker), and
Squire Green for Mississippi ; Hamlet Ferguson and Fred-
erick Grater for Massac ; James Ford and Samuel Omel-
vany for Rocking Cave.
Overseers of the Highways. — Jesse Reynolds for Mitchie,
Pierre Auguste for Du Rocher, Jesse Griggs for Kaskaskia,
Thomas Levin for Williamsburg, James Hughes for Spring-
field. For the newly organized townships Rocking Cave,
Massac, and Mississippi, no appointments were made.
Constable''. — Jesse Griggs and Samuel Davis for Kaskas-
kia ; Michael Masterson for Mitchie; John Langston for
Mississippi ; Joseph M. Courtney for Marie ; Autoin Le
Chance for Du Rocher; James Laird, Springfield.
Licensed Taverns in 1809. — Pierre IjC Compte, at Prairie
du Rocher ; Philip Fuuke, at Kaskaskia ; Thomas C x, at
Kaskaskia; Jonathan Taylor, at the United States Saline ;
James Truesdale, on the road leading from U. S. Saline to
Shawneetown ; James Lane, do. do.
The first county court of Randolph county, composed of
the Worshipful Philip Fouke, William Arui-del and John
McFerron, met at the tavern of Thomas Cox on the 4th of
January, 1810, and proceeded immediately to levy a tax
for the county and also a territorial tax on lands located.
The county tax levy was as follows : Each single man, not
having one hundred dollars' worth of taxable property, was
assessed one dollar ; owners of slaves had to pay for each
slave one dollar per year ; horses were taxed fifty cents
and neat cattle ten cents each ; each mansion valued
at two hundred dollars or more, all mills and distilleries,
were assessed at the rate of thirty cents per one hundred
dollars valuation. The numerous ferrries were also a source
of revenue, and the year 1810 saw the following ferries
licensed, to wit : Ephraim Carpenter, William Cheek, John
Edgar, Pierre Menard, James Ford, each ten dollars ; Ham-
ilton Ferguson at seven dollars ; James Fulton and William
Mirrison eac'i at six dollars ; Charles Bradley, Louis Baor-
ke, Thomas Ferguson, John Robinson, RichanI and Waller,
each five dollars; Jonathan Hampton at four dollars;
John Morris, James McHorton and John May, each three
dollars.
The revenue of the county derived from these levies was
small, as the land taxes proper were collected for maintain-
ing the territorial government only. From a settlement
mentioned in the county records of August term 1809, it ap-
pears that the county revenue for the years 1807 and 1808,
the collection of which was entrusted to sheriff James Gil-
breath, amounted to §1,593.18, of which S944.97 had been
collected and accounted for, while §213.50 of the revenue
of 1807 and §435.71 of the revenue of 1808 were re-
turned delinquent. The sherifl^s of those days had a
hopeless task to perform in collecting a few hundred dollars
of taxpavers, whose homes were scattered through all the
territory between the Misaissisippi, the Wabash and the
Ohio, nor is it to be wondered at that nearly every one is
accused of being in default. The expenses of those infant
counties, though insignificant in the whole, invariably ex-
ceeded the revenue, and sufficed scarcely to defray court
expenses, rent of rooms and salaries of officers; improve-
ment of roads and buHding of bridges was out of the ques-
tion; but let it be said in honor of those pioneers, that they
contrived to find means to aid the poor and helpless. We
mention here that the authorities in 1809 paid Thomas Cox
8144 a year for keeping Thomas Branham, a blind man.
Thus it is shown that about ode-sixth of the whole revenue
was expended in support of one unfortunate fellow being!
In extreme cases the aid of the territorial government was
extended to the helpless, as for instance in the case of Julian
Bart, who had been drafted to serve a tour of duty as a
militiaman during the past summer, and while in service and
obeying the orders of his officer, was shockingly wounded,
having one arm shot off and the other broken in different
places, his body lacerated and his eyesight greatly injured,
and now lies in a most distressed situation in the town of St.
Louis, dependent on the bounty of a poor family ; and
whereas it would be cruel to permit him to linger out a
miserable existence, rendered so in the service of his coun-
try, without the support which it is able to aflford hira,
therefore it is ordered by the governor that the auditor
draw warrants for such sums of money as may from time to
104
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES. ILLINOIS.
time become necessary for the support of said Julian Bart,
and to provide for his removal from St. Louis to Kaskaskia,
his home, etc , etc." Bart was soon after put on the U. 8.
pension list.
PROCEEDINGS IN COURTS OF JUSTICE.
Before reciting some interesting criminal cases during
territorial times, it may be proper to introduce here a brief
sketch of
TERRITORIAL LAWS.
We will allude to some features of the territorial code,
which may give an idea to the reader of the progress and
amelioration attained in criminal jurisprudence and the
punishment for debt. Thus in the punishment of crimes,
both felonies and misdemeanors, the barbarous practices of
whipping on the bare back, confinement in stocks, standing
in the pillory, and branding with hot irons were the penal-
ties frequently prescribed ; besides fines, imprisonment and
loss of citizenship. These summary modes of chastisement
grew in part out of the condition of the country. It was but
sparsely settled, the people were poor, they had no general
prison or penitentiary, and the few jails were so insecure as
to present scarcely any barrier to the escape of prisoners.
Whipping upon the bare back, besides other punishments
at the option of the court, was prescribed in burglary or
robbery, 39 stripes; in perjury, larceny, the receiving of
stolen goods, and obtaining goods by fraudulent pretenses,
31 stripes ; horse stealing, first offence, from 50 to lOU lashes ;
hog stealing from 25 to 39 lashes ; altering and defacing
marks or brands on domestic animals at large, 40 lashes
" well laid on"; bigamy, punished with from 100 to 300
stripes ; for sodomy, from 100 to 500 lashes were prescribed ;
forcibly taking away a female to marry against her consent
was declared a felony and might be punished by whipping ;
children or servants for disobedience, might upon complaint
and conviction before a justice, be whipped not exceeding
10 stripes. Fines were collected from those unable to pay
by the sheriff hiring or selling them to any one who would
pay the fine and costs for such terms as the court might
deem reasonable, and if the delinquent should abscond, the
penalty was double the term of servitude and 39 stripes.
Standing in pillory was prescribed, in addition to other
penalties, in perjury, forgery, and the altering or defacing
of brands or marks on domestic animals. For this last
offense, on second conviction the culprit was to have the
letter T branded in the left hand with a red hot iron. To
prevent the common crime of killing stock running on the
range, every one, including the owners; was required to
exhibit the ears of hogs or hides of cattle, killed, to a magis-
trate or two freeholders within three days under a penalty
of 810.00. For aiding the escape of a convict, the punish-
ment was the same as that of the culprit, except in capital
cases, when stripes, standing in pillory or sitting on the gal-
lows with the rope adjusted about the neck, at the option of
the court was the penalty. Besides in treason and murder,
the penalty of death by hanging was pronounced against
arson and rape, and horse-stealing on second conviction.
For selling intoxicating liquors to Indians, slaves, apprentices
and minors, severe penalties were enacted. For disorderly
behavior at divine worship and hunting on the Sabbath,
penalties by fines were prescribed. In 1810 a law was
adopted to suppress dueling which made the fatal result of
a duel murder, including the aiders, abettors or counselors
as principals in the crime.
In regard to the collection of debts the principles of the
common law favored the creditor. All the property of the
debtor, both real and personal, without any humane features
as to exemption, might be levied upon and sold under exe-
cution. The sale was absolute, no time of redemption. If
the laud failed to sell for .want of bidders, it was the judg-
ment creditor's right, at his option, to take it absolutely at
the appraised value made by 12 jurors. But this was not
all. If the property was insuffiiient to pay the judgment,
the body of the debtor might be seized and cast into prison.
Here he would be allowed the prison bounds, extending 200
yards from the jail in any direction, on condition only of
giving bonds in double the sum of the debt, not to depart
ttierefrom.
The territorial revenue was raised by a tax upon lands.
Those situated in the river bottems of the Mississippi, Ohio
and Wabash, were called 1st class land and taxed at the
rate of SI. 00 on every 100 acres; uplands were called 2d
class lauds, and were taxed at the rate of 75 cents per 100
acres. Uulocated, but confirmed land claims were taxed at
the rate of 37 J cts. per 100 acres. The county revenue was
raised chiefly by a tax upon personal property, including
slaves or indentured servants, not to exceed SI each. The
only real property taxed for county purposes was lots and
houses in towns, mausion houses in the country worth 8200
and upwards, mills and distilleries. There was levied also a
capitation tax of $1.00 on every able-bodied single man of
21 years and over. Tavern keepers, merchants and owners
of ferries were licensed at from S3 to S15 per annum.
Horses and cattle were taxed by the head, not exceeding 50
and 10 cents respectively — not according to value, as at
present.
The entire territorial revenue, between the 1st of Novem-
ber, 1811, and the 8th of November, 1814, was reported by
the legislative committee on finance, in 1814, to be S4,875 45.
But of this amount only 82,516.89 had actually been paid
into the treasury ; the balance, nearly half, — 823,58,50 re-
mained in the hands of delinquent sheriffs. The delinquen-
cies of sherifls in their capacity as collectors of the revenues,
remained a curse to Illino's, not only during its territorial
existence, but for many years after it became a State.*
The courts established in 1779 by the county lieutenant
were superseded by Governor Arthur St. Clair in 1790, and
three judicial districts established to wit : Kaskaskia, Judge
John Edgar; Prairie du Kocher, Judge Jean Baptiste Bar-
beau, and Cahokia, Judge John De Moulin. After the or-
*These delinquencies of sheriffs as collectors of revenue are to be excused.
The compensation of the officers, 10 percent, of amounts collected, would for
the whole territory amount to $487.50 if all the revenue were collected. There
were then 2 sheriffs, and if they had taken the pains of calling on each tax-
payer in their respectivi districits, their travelling expenses would have ab
sorbed twice the amount of their prospective compensation.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
105
ganization of the territory of Illinois, the whole territory
formed one judicial circuit until 1818. The judges during
this period were Obadiah Jones, Alexander Stuart and Jesse
B, Thomas, appointed March 7, 1809. Stuart resigned in
March, 1810, and was succeeded by Stanley Griswold.
William Sprigg was appointed July 29, 1813, and Thomas
Fowles October 28, 1815, and reappointed January 16, 1816.
This General Court of the Illinois Territory held its first
term at Kaskaskia on 12th day of Sej)tember, 1809. Pre-
sent: The Honorable Judges Alexander Stuart, Obadiah
Jones, Jesse B. Thomas. The names of the grand jurors were :
Isaac White, foreman ; Samuel Cochran, William Simp-
son, William Daniels, John Manis, John Hibbins, William
Chaffin, John Worley, Ephraim Bilderback, Josiah Cox,
Jacob Bowerman, William Stiles, John Murphy, John
Phelps, Thomas Griflin, Samuel Omelvany, James Steele,
Gershora demons, Alexander Blair, William Alexander,
John Bradshaw and Owen Evans.
The grand jury thus assembled had a vast amount of labor
before them. The most interesting case was that of The
Uuited States versu* James Dunlap, a physician at Kaskas-
kia, and Michael Jones, "gentleman," also of Kaskaskia.
Before going into the details of the indictment and subse-
quent trial, a few words should be said in reference to inci
dents preceding the indictment.
Rice Jones, son of the well-known John Rice Jones first
lawyer of Illinois, had had difficulties of a political nature
with several gentlemen at Kaskaskia, and in consequence a
duel between him and Shadrach Bond had been arranged.
The parties met on an island between Kaskaskia and St.
Genevieve. When the principals had taken positions and
the word was about to be given, Jones' pistol went off by
accident. Dr. James Dunlap, Bond's second, claimed that
it was Jones' fire, and that Bond might now fire at Jones;
'but Bond, the chivalrous and high-hearted Marylauder, dis-
dained doing so; in fact, the duel ended right there and the
controversy was amicably settled on the spot. The incident
gave rise to a bitter quarrel between Rice Jones and Dr.
James Dunlap, who was urged on by Michael Jones and
others to persecute Jones in every way imaginable. The
threats against Rice Jones' life had become verv loud
towards the close of the year 1808, so that John Rice Jones
saw proper to address the following note to Elija Bachus :
K.\sKASKrA, Nov. 25, 1808.
Sir— I have just heard of your threats of yesterday, that
if my son did not go out of the country, he should in a few
days be put out of existence— "i< will he done, it ahnll be
done." I now inform you that he will remain hfre, and if
he should be murdered either by you or through your insti-
gation, I shall know where to apply. I must, however, con-
fess that the threats of poltroons can be considered in no
other light than as those of assassins.
Yours, John Rice Jones.
On the 7tli day of December, 1808, while Rice Jones was
standing in the streets of Kaskaskia, in conversation with a
lady, Dr^ Dunlap stole up behind him and shot him dead
with a pistol. This murder created great excitement in the
community, and Duulap had to flee the country.
The grand jury J after bringing in an indictment against
Dr James Dunlap for murder, also indicted Michael Jones,
" gentleman," because he did, on the 6th of December, 1808,
incite, move, abet, etc, feloniously and with malice afore-
thought, the said James Dunlap to commit the crime of
murder.
The prosecuting attorney, B. H. Doyle, obtained the con-
sent of court for a continuance of the trial on the affidavit
of Archibald IMcKnabb, an important witness, being sick
and unable to attend court. A continuance was granted,
and Michael Jones, who had insisted on a speedy trial, was
admitted to bail in the sum of S3,000. His securities were
John McFerron, Shadrach Bond, Jr., Thomas Leavens,
Henry Leavens, Henry Connor and Samuel Cochran — all
of the best people of the county, the f. f. of Randolph.
Michael Jones was tried on the 10th of April, 1810, before
a jury composed of William Rector, Paul Harralson, Thomas
Wideraan, William McBride, John Anderson, George
Franklin, David Anderson, John McFerron, Henry Connor,
George Creath, Jacob Funk and James Fulton. It will be
observed that two of his bondsmen, McFerron and Connor,
were members of the jury that tried Jones' case.
Michael Jones was acquitted, but the court exonerated
the ''prosecutor" (John Rice Jones?) from paying the costs,
as there were probable grounds for preferring the indict-
ment.
Another Murder (Use. — James McGlaughlin, indicted for
the murder of Thomas McGlaughlin, was tried on the 13th
iif September, 1809, before the following jury: John An-
dersoii, Robert Hill, Thomas Stubblefield, John McFerron,
Joseph McCourtney, John Howell, Robert Penny, Thomas
Leavens, William. Evert, Thomas Fulton, William Dees and
Robert Huggin, who brought in a verdict of guilty, where-
upon the court sentenced James McGlaughlin to be hung on
the 23d day of September, 1809, in or near Kaskaskia. The
writer could not ascertain if the execution took place or not.
Two others, Robert Hays, " yeoman," and Jesse Canada,
" laborer," indicted for the murder of Thomas Allen, were
tried and acquitted.
John Boren, " laborer," indicted by the same grand jury
for clubbing Samuel Billingsley to death Nov. 20, 1808, aa
also Hosea Boren, for aiding John, had their cases con-
tinued and were nolle jiros. April 10, 1810.
Sever.il grievous cases of assault and battery were tried
and ended in the conviction of the fighters, who had to pay
pretty heavy fines, from 12 to 60 dollars. Francis King,
indicted for breaking into and burglarizing the store of
James Wilson, was tried by a jury and found guilty
whereupon the sheriff was ordered to take King Francis to
some " convenient" spot and there give him " 39 lashes on
his bare back, well laid on."
Moses Canada and John Gibson, indicted for stealing
" one gelding of a black color" from sheriff Stephenson,
were acquitted.
Nelson Rector, the old surveyor, had had '■ difficultiea
with Benjamin H. Doyle (U S. Attorney), and had admin-
106
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
istered a terrible cudgeling to him on the first of June, 1809.
The grand jury could not ignore this outrage, and so we
read on the records of that term :
Nelson Rector, surveyor, being a person of a terrible,
cruel, fierce and inhumane disposition, and wickedly having
in his heart rank malice and ill will towards Benjamin
H. Doyle, on the 1st of June 1809, did beat the said Doyle
with a round stick or cudgel, cruelly and barbarously,
striking him diverse, terrible, grievous and dangerous blows
upon the head and hands, to the manifest danger of life, etc.
Kector had the case continued, and on the 10th of April,
1810, confessed the allegations charged against him in the
indictment, and put himself upon the mercy of the court,
who fined him $60.00 and costs. Doyle was not satisfied
with this sentence, and now brought suit against Rector for
• damages. In his declaration he stated that Rector felled
him to the floor with a blow of the cudgel, and then
continued beating him mercilessly until he left him for
dead, etc., etc. The case was subsequently dismissed,
Rector paying costs.
It is somewhat strange that neither the grand jury nor
the petit jury had any French among them, but it also
should be stated that no French names are to be found
among those indicted.
PROBATE COURT. 1809.
William C. Greenup, clerk of the county court, trans-
acted the probate business of the county on his own
responsibility. The entries made on the records are not in
chronological order. The first one, dated July 9th, 1810,
has reference to the estate of Jean B. Godfrey, deceased,
and grants letters of administration to Louis Buatt in the
following language :
William C. Greenup, clerk of the county court of Ran-
dolp to Louis Buatt, Greeting :
Whereas, Jean Baptiste Godfrey, late ef this county,
deceased, died intestate as it is said, /do therefore give and
grant unto you full power and authority to administer,
etc., etc.
The estate of said Godfrey, consisted in a sorrel horse
three years old, valued at $20.00, and one arpent of land in
front extending from the bluff to the Mississippi, lying in
the big prairie below Prairie du Recher, and was appraised
at $60 00 by Jean Baptiste Gendron and John Doyle.
Then comes an inventory of the estate of John Beaird,
dated March 13th, 1809. Beaird must have been farming
extensively ; the inventory mentions seventeen horses, worth
from $45 to $100 each, two yoke of oxen, wagons, plows,
six sets of harness, etc., a "mulatto negro" worth $350, and
a black boy worth $250.
Prices paid at the sale : Corn, ten cents per bushel, one
barrel of pork, $10.00, one half dozen of pewter plates, $2.50.
The negro boy " Berry " was sold to John Beaird, Jr., for
$450, the other brought only $225. Mrs. Elizabeth Worley
paid $120 for a bay mare ; twenty acres of wheat in the
field brought $65, and a pot trammel $4.25 ; cows sold for
nine, ten and twelve dollars, but a "muUey" brought $13. 15,
purchased by Monsieur Archambeau; one yoke of oxen
sold for $60.00 and the other for $17.50. The sale
amounted to $2,273.20.
On page twenty-five of said record is found the following
will, which was in all probability drawn up by some justice,
who had but recently written out a deed.
Illinois Territory, )
Randolph County, j Know all men by these presents,
that I, Isaac Allen of said county, being in a low state of
health but yet in my right mind, do render ray soul to God,
and my estate to my wife and children in the following
manner, and this is my last will and testament to stand
against all other previous to this. And I do hereby appoint
John Anderson and David Anderson of this county my
executors, and I do hereby bequeath unto my wife, Rutb,
one black mare about thirteen years old and two colts, one
a yearling and the other a spring colt, one bay horse about
six years old, and all the neat cattle except steers; about
thirty head of hogs, and all the household furniture, and all
the corn in the cribbs and the land, and all the rest of the
property to be sold on the 15th of October, at twelve
months credit, ray wife Ruth to have a child's part of the
vendue money, the other property which I have bequeathed
to her, is to be for the use of her and the children while she
remains a widow.
This I acknowledge to be my last will and tfstament, in
witness whereof, I have hereunto set my hand and seal this
19th day of May, 1810. Isaac-Allen.
The testator seemed to have been sure of his early demise,
inasmuch as he fixed the day of sale, nor was he mistaken,
for the records show, that the will was probated on the 23d
of June, 1810.
ESTATES PUT UNDER ADMINISTRATION FROM 1809 TO 1818.
Jean B. Godfroy, Ambrose Vasseur, Jean B. Barbeau,
James Davis, Isaac Allen, Charles Burk, Joseph Danie,
Nelson Montgomery, Henry Bowers, Margareta Cochon,
Nathan Dever, Moses Stephans, Israel Bailey, Samuel Liv-
ering, Abel Dewey, Isaac Baker, Robert Robinson, Elijah
Bachus, Pelage Danie, Moses Harrisoii, Jesse Reynor,
Henry Laughlio, Wra. McGlaughlin, James Anderson,
James McNabb, John Lively, John Robinson, Francis Gar-
ner, James Smith, Clement Drury, Elijah Benton, Joseph
Lavoy, John Hicks, John Wooten, Joseph Laflambuis,
Catharine Page Gasper Butcher, Samuel Wilson, John
Fisher, Gregory Codel, John Mansker, James Fulton, John
R. McGlaughlin, Michel D St. Pierre. William Arundel,
Robert Gas'on, Samuel Blakely, Nicholas G. R. Rhea,
James Edgar, Blissftt de Rouse, Samuel Vermillion, Eliza-
beth Septante, and John Hochersmith.
William C. Greenup attended to all the probate business
of the county until August 6, 1821, when Hon. Curtis Conn
appears as judge of probate of Randolph county. David J.
Baker, succeeded Curtis Conn on the 24th of August, 1827.
Dwight Hunt, probate judge, from March 7, 1831 to May
16, L31.
During his brief administration the Will of JohnEdgab
was probated. This will was drawu up in the handwriting
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUXTIES, ILLIXOIS.
107
of Elias Kent Kaue, the seoator, and was also witnessed by
him, James L. Lamb, and Patrick KSvenaugh. The will
is dated Septr. 4, 182:>. Ttie coutents of the will are as
follows:
In the name of God, Amen. I, John Edgar, of Kaskaskia,
in the state of Illinois, being sick in body, but of sound mind,
memory and discretion, knowing the uncertainty of life and
the certainty of death, have made this ray last will and tes-
tament, and do hereby declare and will as follows:
Item first: Whereas on the 25th day of November in the
year 1S23, I executed in contemplation of my late marriage
with my dear wife Eliza, to the said Eliza a bond in the
penal sum of 820,000, conditioned for securing to the said
Eliza over and above her dower, the sum of $10,50(1, now
therefore for the purpose of satisfying and fully complying
with the conditions of said bond, and in order to provide a
suitable maintenance and support for my said wife Eliza,
I do hereby devise and bequeath to my said wife in full
property and domain the house wherein I now reside, in the
village of Kaskaskia. together with the lots adjoining the
same and together with all my household furniture, I also
for the same purpose give and bequeath to my said wife my
mills, distillery and ferry on the East side of the Kaskaskia,
together with all the lands belonging to and adjoining the
same. Also my tract of land below the village of Kaskas-
kia in the Common field of said village; also ray tract of
land on the East side of the Kaskaskia river, called the gar-
rison hill tract, in fee simple and full domain ; I also give to
my said wife all my stock of cattle, hogs and other stock.
Ittm Stfcond. — I do further will, that my debts be paid
out of the remainder of my property.
Il'iii Ihinl. — After all my just debts *hall have been
paid, I do will and bequeath al the rest and residue of ray
estate, real, personal and mixed, whether in possession, in
action or in expectancy, to my said wife Eliza, to have and
to hold the same absolutely in her own right forever.
Item Fourth. — I do further hereby name and appoint my
said wife Eliza sole executrix of this mj- last will and testa-
ment, and that she be not required to give any security for
the administration of my estate in any shape whatever, etc
Jiimes Th'trnp^on, Probate Judge from May 16, 1831, to
April 27, 1837, from aud after which day the judge signed
his name as probate justice of the peace. He remained in
office until after the adoption of the Constitution of 1848,
when he was superceded by Hon. John Campbell, first
county judge of Randolph county.
.SLAVERY IS RASDOLPH COUNTY.
Readers may wonder at this caption. Slavery in Illinois I
AVhy, the very ordinance of Congress creating the territory
northwest of the river Ohio, decreed that neither slavery nor
invoAutary servitude shouhl exist in it. How, then, could
thtt institution be established? The fact is, that the ordi-
nance of July 13, 1787, found slavery in this us well as in
other parts of the vast territory.
The first slaves were brought to Illinois by Antoine Crozat
and his followers about the year 1713. King Louis XIV. of
France had, on the 14th of September, 1712, granted to said
Crozat letters patent to the vast regions extending from
Upjjer Canada to the (.iulf of Mexico. Crozat arrived in
1713, and commenced mining operations in the vain hope of
finding precious metals. Ilis followers were suflTering with
climatic diseases, and therefore a number of blacks were im-
ported from the French West India Islands. Crozat's ex-
ploits, however, failed entirely, and he returned to France
in 1717, surrendering bis patents to the crown.
Frantjois Renault (properly Renaud), manager of the
affairs of a company of adventurers, .sent out by the " Com-
pany of the Indies," to whom the royal domain refused by
Crozat had been granted in 1719, brought 500 negro slaves
to Illinois, landing them at the site of the "ancient village
of St. Phdip." His contract stipulated that he should
bring at least six thousand whites and three thousand blacks
to Illinois within tweuty-five years from the date of his
grant (1719).
By the condition of the peace of Paris, February 10, 1763>
the territory was ceded to England, and on taking possession
of it in 17G4, General Gage, commander in chief of the
English troops in America and governor, issued aproclama.
tion in the name of the crown of England, December 30,
1764, in which all the rights and privileges heretofore en-
joyed by the then inhabitants of the ceded territories were
guaranteed to them. Sieur Stirling, captain of the High-
land Regiment brought this proclamation to Kaskaskia in
person. Virginia in her turn [1779] readily guaranteed to
the inhabitants of the conquered territories all their prior
rights and titles of whatsoever description, and when the old
Commonwealth ceded and deeded the territory to the United
States, the rights and privileges etc. were guaranteed again
bv the latter. Hence it was afterwanls strenuously con-
tended that the famous ordinance of 1787, prohibiting
slaverv conflicted with the deed of cession and was therefore
not binding in efl'eet, as slavery had legally and legitimately
existed in the territory.
This view, however was not taken by the judicial authori-
ties of the territory at the earlier period as will appear more
fully from the following proceeding and order of court of
Sept. 1798.
It appears that a certain negro, formerly a slave, had
found his way into the territory aud that his case was taken
into court, in order to make a test case of it. Guy, the
negro in question ajjpeared before his honor. Judge John
ClevesSymmes at Kaskaskia on the ■22d of September, 1798,
when the following proceedings were had. Guy in making
his application for certificate of freedom subscribed the fol-
lowing affidavit, to wit :
Guv, a negro man aged about .SO years who being duly
sworn according to law deposeth and sayeth that he formerly
lived with and belonged to Adam Lawrence of North Caro-
lina who moved to and settled on Green River in 1793, and
that his master and "him" agreed, that he [Guy] and his
wife, also a slave of said Lawrence, should stay with him
until they had made 1000 bushels of corn for him, but that
after having raised and delivered 750 bu.-hels of corn on
lauds first cleared by them, his master sold him to one Robert
Mitchell of Massac who had come to his masters house with
108
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
a load of lead, and that his master got into a great frolic and
was drunk for sorae days, in which time said Blitchell had
bought hiin [Guy] and his wife. Said Mitchell had then
taken them to Fort Massac, promising never to sell them,
and to set them free if they would clear off a piece of land
[five acres] during the fall and winter and then plant it in
corn and tend it well during the summer. In consequence
of these promises, he had gone to work clearing the land,
when all at once Mitchell had sold him and wife to one
Nealy, bound to the Spanish dominion ; that they first re-
fused to go, but as he knew they were too strong for him, and
could bind him and take him by force, he consented to go,
though determined to leave the boat if he could. The boat
had landed 20 miles below Fort Massac during the night,
when he and his wife made their escape, and after great
difficulties and many sufferings and hardships he and his
wife had arrived at the town of Kaskaskia in the county of
Randolph. On the 22d. of Sept. 1798, the court there upon
entered the following order : Guy's Freedom Papers.
Territory of the United States } ^ .,
Northwtstof the Ohio River )
Be it remembered that on this 24th day of September,
1798, Guy, a negro man, and Abigail, his wife, being both
severally brought before the subscriber, one of the Judges of
the Territory, when they alleged, that by the Ordinance
creating the government of said territory, there can be no
such condition as slavery, therefore that the said Guy and
Abigail, his wife, of right are and ought to be free, and the
subscriber having maturely considered the premises does
adjudge the said negro man, Guy, as well as his wife,
Ahig&il, citizens of the United States, and that they ought of
right to enjoy all and every privilege and franchise with
relation to their personal liberty and protection of property,
unmolested, subject only to the laws of the land.
And all persons are hereby advised and forewarned not
to invade or annoy the entire freedom of the said Guy and
Abigail, which Inj this record is ahsu'ufe.
Given under the hand and seal of John Cleves
Symmes, at Kaskaskia, the day above written.
John Cleves Symmes.
All honor to the Judge! *
* MANVMISMON IN 1700.
Geoi-gG Morg.Tn, one of His Majesty's justices of the peace for the country of
the Illinois, took the acknowledgment of one "Antoine Renand" to the
followint; docnment .nft?r having fully explained the contents thereof to him,
in the Frtuch languiise, to wit :
To all people to whom these presents .«hall come, Antoine Eennud, of
Kasliaski.T vill:ii;f, in Iho country of the Illinois, yeoman, sends greeting.
Whereas the .«r>iil Antoine Rcnaud is now iu actual possession of a certain
negress slave named Ton Ton, and, whereas, for causes and considerations
hereinafter recited, he is very desirous that the said negress shall no
longer remain in bondage as a slave to him, or any other person or persona
whatsoever. Now, know ye tliat the said Antoine Renaid, in consideration of
the great and signal services she, the said Ton Ton, hath done and performed
for him, the said Antoine Eenaud, since she halhbcen his slave, as well as in
consideration of his mcrsion to anj/ of ths human tpccics contimmnce in perpetual
bmdagc and staicrj/, and also in consideration of £5 lawful money of Great
Britain, to him, the said Antoine Renand, hy Ihe .said Ton Ton in hand paid,
at and before the ensealing and delivering of these presents, the receipt
whereof is hereby acknowledged, he, the said Antoine Renand, hath for
himself, his executors and administrators, fully and amply released, liberated
and forever disfhargr d her, the said Ton Ton, from all slavery, bondage and
servitude whatsoever, either to h mself, the said Anioine Renaud, his
executors or administrators, or to any other periion or persons whatsoever
His decree, however, was no surpri.se to the people of the
territory, for the struggle to defy the stipulations of the
ordinance of 1787 was then scarcely perceptible. The
feeble efforts of several citizens of the colony to have
Congress re-consider the anti-slavery proviso were ineffectual,
and injured the very men who made them. The purchase
of Louisiana in 1803 added a vast empire of slave terri-
tory to the United States, the present state of Missouri
being a part thereof And it was not until the ftw and
scattering American settlers in Illinois saw well equipped
emigrants from the slave States pass through Illinois, bound
fur Missouri, where slavery was not prohibited, that the
actual agitation for introducing or legalizing it here was
inaugurated. It must have been provoking to see a
desirable population turn their backs to the beautiful lands
on the east bank of the Mississippi and cross over to
inferior land for their settlements. A raw-boned Tennes-
seean, passing with his family and " property" through the
streets of Kaskaskia on his way to Missouri, being asked
why he would not remain here rather than move further on,
op&iied his big mouth saying: "Ynur'sile' is rich and
fertile, and the country is fine ; but, God dern ye, a man is
not allowed to own niggers here."
But to return to the suljject ; it should be stated that the
ordinance of 1787 was prospective only, and did not affect
the condition of the French slaves or their descendants.
The Legislature of Indiana passed various acts in Sep-
tember, 1807, (Illinois then forming a part of Indiana terri-
tory) by which at least a temporary and modified form of
slavery was effected. Negroes were brought into the terri-
tory and there held as indentured servants. Another act
provided that the owner of a person " owning" labor (i. e. a
slave) may bring such person into the territory and "agree"
with him beforethe clerk of the Court of Common Pleas in
the county, upon a terra of service, after the expiration of
which the slave should be free. The ignorance of the poor
blacks was taken advantage of, for many of them would as
readily bind themselves for I'9 years as for 10 or 15 years.
If an indentured slave refused to work, the owner was
allowed to take him to another State or territory, i. e., to
sell him to some slave trader in the south or west. Slaves
under the age of 15 were held in servitude until the age of
35 or 32 according to sex. Owners had to give bond that
slaves who would become free after their 40th year of age,
should never become a county charge. The children of
lawfully claiming or to claim by, from or under him, them or either of them
from the day of the date hereof, for and during the natural life of her, the
taid Ton Ton, and by these presents doth for himself, his executors and
administrators fully and amply release, liberate and forever discharge her,
the said Ton Ton, from all ^lavery, bondage and servitude whatsoever, either
to him, the said Antoine Renaud, his executors or administrators, or to any
other person or persons whatsoever, lawfully claiming or to claim by, from or
under him, them or either of them from tho day and date hereof, for and
during the natural life of her, the said Ton Ton, giving and hereby
granling unto the said Ton Ton full liberty to go and come
whithersoever she shall think proper, without the least trouble, hindrance or
intervention.
In witness whereof, etc., tigned 22d of May, A. D. 1769.
Antoine X R
mark
d by \Vi
nd^o
r Brown
and Valent
ne Thomas Da/ton.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
1(9
" registered or indentured "slaves remained in servitude until
they were 28 and 30 years old, according to sex.
The records in reference to the owners of slaves or inden-
tured servants set forth that theie were 197 negroes and niu-
lattoes regi-tered as slaves or indentured as servants during
the territurial ])eriod of the county ; the slaves owned there
prior to 1807 were not mentioned. Among the slaveholders
of the county, the following well-known names are found:
Jesse B. Thomas, the judge ; Alexander Stuart, Benjamin
Stephenson, Frederick Bond, David J. Black, Kinian
Edwards,* Nathaniel Pope, William and Elias Rector,
James Gilbreath, William and Rdbert Morrison, 'Squire
Garton, Elias K. Kent, Robert Shields and others. The
terms of bondage and servitude vary from 8 and 10 years
to 99 years. Jean Pierce was bound to Wright Pierce for
99 years when he was 19 years of age, to wit, March 8, 1811,
and thus Jean will be a free negro in 1910. Millv, a negro
girl of twenty years of age was brought into the State from
Kentucky, in May, 1811, and bound herself to Samuel Hall,
her master, for eighty years; she will soon be free, to wit, in
18. '1. Henry Kimniel, one of those slaveholders of the ter-
ritorial period was a German, while there are quite anuipber
of Frenchmen among them Rachel, the proper!)' of Amos
C'hipps, reported to have been 15 yiars of age ou the 7th of
April, 1811, is still living in the county.
Colored people, who were not slaves nor bonded servants.
bad to procure certificates to that effect, in order to be un-
molested. We introduce here a few samples, to wit :
State of North Carolina, |
Guilford County. J This is to certify that Moses
Tabon, a man of color, is a free born. Let him pass
and repa.ss ; his height is five feet nine inches; in the 25th
year of his age. Let him pass through North Carolina and
Virginia, this 14th of June, 1805. His character is equal to
any of his color, since he has been ij) the county.
Jehu Beeson, J. P.
We hereby certify that the bearer, Mary Ann, an old
negro woman, was this day made free by us.
William Morrison,
EUPHR^VSIA MoRRI.SON.
Recorded Feb. 25, 1813, at Kaskaskia, in Book M, p. 90.
William ArundeLj Recorder R. C.
Persons of color, whose time of indentured bondage had
expired, were furnished certificates of freedom by the county
authorities, in form following, to wit :
May 19th, 1819.
Dice, a negro woman, about 45 years of age, five feet seven
inches high, of a stout make, a scar on her left cheek aLd
* The Governor seems to have been one cf the principal slaveh jlders and
.ilnve tr.iJers in tlic Territory.
The Illinois Herald, in whii-h his name as Governor con-tantly app^-nred
attached to various promulgations and otiicial documents, contained a'ao the
following:
Notice: I have for sale 22 Stavea; among them are several of both sexes be-
tween the ages 6{ 10 and 17 years. If not stld i*hortly I shall wish to hire them
in Miasourt Terrilury. I have also for sale a full blooded Stud Horse; a very large
Eng'i'k Bu'l, and several young ones.
OlTOBER 1, 1815. NlNIAN Edwabds.
The Governor, in later years, whs an anti-slavery agitator.
right breast, produced to W. C. Greenup, clerk of the circuit
court of Randolph county. State of Illinois, one indenture
of herself to John Edgar, dated the 7th of June, 1794, for
twelve years next ensuing; whereupon a certificate was
granted, under the seal of the court, to her of her freedom,
pursuant to the act passed at the last session respecting free
negroes, mulattoes, servants and slaves.
In other instances the freedom papers assumed the form
of a deed, and as a specimen illustrating this, the following
is here introduced :
Know all men by these presents that, whereas I, John
Edgar, of Randolph county. State of Illinois, in considera-
tion of the many valuable services rendered to me by my
mulatto woman slave, named Celeste, originally owned by
Louis Lasond and transferred by him to William Morrison^
and by Morrison to Joseph Gendr. n, and by him to me, I
have released and by these presents do release, manumit, set
free and at full liberty the said Celeste, from and after the
date hereof, forever free from my service and the service of
my heirs, executors and ailministratnrs forever, and from
the service of all other persons whomsoever, hereby exoner-
ating her from all bonds of service, freely to act for herself
as any other free person of color ; and I do moreover, in
consideration of said services rendered me by said Celtste,
release, manumit, set free and at full liberty the children of
the said Celeste, namely : Leonora, aged 14 years last Jan-
uary ; Nerville, aged 9 years on the 4th day of July last;
Virginia, aged 6 years ou the 26th day of April last ; Hil-
laire, aged 4 years last May ; Mary Louise, aged 2 years
last May ; Joseph, aged 1 year last August ; and I do hereby
exonerate the said children from my servicte and place them
respectively under the control of their said mother, the
males until they shall be 21 years old and the females until
they shall be 18 years of age, when they shall be free to act
for themselves as fully as any other free person of color,
according to law. In testimony of which, etc, etc.
Signed
JuuN Edgar. ( seai,^
A NEGRO CHILD SET FREE.
Know all men by these presents that I, Joseph Geudron,
of Randolph county. State of Illinois, for and in considera-
tion of the sum of eighty dollars to me, cash in hand, paid
at and before ensealing and delivering of these presents, the
receipt whereof is hereby acknowledged, do give, grant and
forever set free my servant, named William, aged about five
years, the sou of Therese, formerly the servant of me the
undersigned : I tlo therefore, for and in consideration of the
sum aforesaid, manumit and set free and at full liberty from
my service, from the date hereof, for ever. And I do further
warrant and forever defend the liberty of the said William
from myself, my heirs or assigns, or any person claiming
under or by virtue of me. In witness whereof I have htre-
unto set my hand and seal at Kaskaskia this 6th day of De-
cember, 1831.
This ' deed" is signed, witnessed, and formally acknow-
ledged before James Hughes, clerk, and by him recorded.
It is not slated who paid those eighty dollars, but it may be
suppoeed that the mothei paid for him.
110
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
isidney Breese manamitting a slave in 1834. — Know all
men by these presents, that I, Sidney Breese of Kaskaskia,
Illinois, for divers good causes and considerations me there-
unto moving, have and by these presents do forever manumit
and set free my indentured woman Rachel, now about 43
years of age, and residing at present at Cheater, Randolph
county, Illinois : ard I do hereby release her from all her
obligations and covenants to rae as contained in her inden-
ture assigned me by Redding B. Hering : It being under-
stood that I am in no wise responsible for any of her con-
tracts now or heretofore made, or hereafter to be made.
Witness ray hand and seal at Chester aforesaid, this 8th
day of November, 1834.
Sidney Breese.
The records contain the names of many persons of color,
who have their freedom papers as documentary evidence
of their being barn free, proparly entered, even to as
late a day as the 13th of April A. D. 1863. S. St. Vrain
and Edmund St. Vrain appeared before R. B. Servant, jus-
tice of the peace, and made oath that "Patrick" Mitchell^
a colored inhabitant of the county, of bright complexion,
etc., was born " free" at Kaskaskia about the year 1840,
and that his mother, at the time of his birth, had been a
free colored inhabitant of said county of Randolph, etc.,
etc.
The number of slaves, as given by the county census of
1820, was then 240. From that period their number
constantly decreased, and in 1840 there were only 133
enumerated. While the system of slavery existed, however,
it had all the appearances and features of this peculiar in-
stitution in the southern states.'
The newspapers of the period contained the well-known
advertisements of Fifty Dollars Reward, etc., etc.
The following, taken from a stray number of the Illinois
Intelligencer, may serve as a sample:
Fifty Dollars Reward. — Ran away from the subscriber.
on the night of the 18th ultimo, a negro man, named Charles,
about 25 or 26 years of age, of large stature. He has a
small piece of the left ear taken off. He stole from my
desk one hundred and eighty dollars — a hundred dollar bill
on the bank of Nashville, other bills not recollected. Also,
•a negro woman, named Peggy, the fellow's wife, ran away at
the same time, near the same age. She is a common-sized,
very black, and has lost the sight of one of her eyes. The
above reward will be given to any person who will appre-
hend the said negroes and deliver them to me at Kaskaskia.
James Adkins.
The irrepressible negro may now be dismissed, for it is
not the province of the chronicler of a county sketch to
follow the subject of the slavery question through its various
stages. The feud between the pro-slavery and anti-slavery
men in Illinois was more a national affair than a county
matter- Prominent men of Randolph county were found
on the -one side as well as on the other. The contest, fierce
and bitter, ended in favor of freedom, for the people of the
Btate defMted the scheme of the new constitutionists or
pro-slavery men by a vote of 6822 against 4950, August,
1824. Strange, however, it must appear that although the
anti-slavery men were largely in the majority, the pro-
slavery men elected a majority of the legislators, who elected
a violent pro-slavery man, Elias Kent Kane, of Randolph
county, senator of the U. S. to succeed John McClean.
Thomas Mather, a member of the General Assembly from
Randolph, was a decided anti-slavery agitator.
Public Roads. — As heretofore stated, the revenue of the
county in territorial times did not admit of appropriations
of public funds towards the making of roads and building
of bridges. The supervisors of highways mentioned hereto-
f'-re, and their assessors, had no means at their disposal
barring the labor due by able-bodied residents, and it
barely sufficed to keep the neighborhood roads in repair.
The numerous ferries facilitated the traffic across the
streams, as no substantial bridges were in existence. The
want of roads to distant settlements was keenly felt, and
the aid of the federal government had to be implored to
open such roads. The records of the county mention the
road from Kaskaskia to Prairie du Rocher, and to the place
of Degagnie, as also a road to Belleville. A correspondence
in reference to the opening of a road to Shawneetown was
placed in the hands of the writer, from which the following
facts are gleaned :
The Government of the United States appropriated, by
Act of Congress, passed April 27th, 1816, the sum of $'<,000
for surveying and making a road " in the Territory of Illi-
nois, of which amount SI, 258. 51 were expended in exploring"
the country from Shawneetown td Kaskaskia. The balance
of the money was considered inadequate to complete the
road, but deemed sufficient to clear it of timber and to bridge
the worst streams, etc. The President of the U. S. appointed
then Shadrach Bond, of Kaskaskia, and Leonard White, of
the Wabash Saline, agents, with authority to commence the
work at the two extreniities and to make such distribution
of the money as the nature of the road required.
Hon. W. H. Crawford, Secretary of the U- S. Treasury,
addressed a letter to Shadrack Bond, then Receiver of Pub-
lic Monies at Kaskaskia, on June 21, 1818, to advisehira of
his appointment, closing the letter in the following sentence :
You will consider yourself as authorized to advance out of
the public moneys in your hands the sum, which shall be
assigned for the completion of your part of the road. As the
opening of this road is of great importance to the citizens of
the Territory, it is expected that your charge for the super-
intendence will be as moderate as possible, not exceeding your
necessary expenses, and the most reasonable coiiipensation for
the loss of time, etc , etc.
A contract was then made with George Breath and David
Husband, August 15. 1818, to " clear" the road 33 feet in
width, to remove all the timber, etc., from Dernints in Frank-
lin county to Kaskaskia, a distance of 50 miles, the work to
be done by January Ist, 1819, for which they were then to
receive $2,000
The work was done and the money paid out. On the 20th
of September, 1819, David Husband contracted for the build-
ing of good and substantial bridges, across Tindall's creek,
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Ill
2 branches of Cox"s creek, 1 branch of Pipestone creek, 1
branch of Rattlesnake creek, 1 branch of Beaucoup creek, 2
brandies of Ell prairie and Prairie creek, and across little
Muddy river ; further he contracted for the digging down the
banks of all the other creeks across which the said road
passed from Kaskaskia ^0 miles east, and for removing all ob-
structions from fallen trees and the like, etc., for all of which
work Husband was to have ?1, 319.24, on the 1st of January,
1820.
Shadrach Bond rendered an account of his receipts and
disbursements on the 2(tth of March, 1820, from which it
appears that he had drawn ?3,395.74}, (the exact one-half
of the balance of the appropriation mentioned about, and
that he had paid out the following amounts, to wit :
Breath and Husband $i!,ikk> 00
David Husband I,:«9 2*^4
Blackwfll and Berry, for publishing notices 3 76
Superintending the work, etc 72 75
83,395 74V2
The U. S. Government was not satisfied with this account,
because, as Joseph Anderson, comptroller, in his letter of
Shadrach Bond, dated November 29, 1821, stated, the two
agents. Bond and White, should have rendered a joint ac-
count, etc. Leonard White seems to have failed to render
a proper account of the " moiety " placed in his hands, for
the Comptroller advised Senator John McLean, February 2,
1825, that Mr. White had not accounted for one-half of said
amount, and that the question had now arisen how far
Shadrach Bond was liable for the other half, etc; and that
in all probability suit would be brought against Bond as
well as against White, as both had drawn the amount jointly.
The writer has not been able to ascertain if such suitg
were brought or how the matter was adjusted. Shadrach
Bond however had opened a road, 33 feet wide and 5U miles
long, bridging all bad streams and cutting down the banks
of others for less than 63,400, or abo.ut §68 per mile, and it
would have been a grievous wrong to have held him respon-
sible for White's "moiety."
PUBLIC BUILDIXti.S.
The only public building erected during this period was a
jail built by Nathan Hill and Ezra Owens in 1815. It was
"received" on rejiort of George Fisher and Edgar Owens,
commissioners ajiiwinted on the 3d Jlonday of June 1815.
The courts of the county were held for years at the va-
rious taverns in Kaskaskia until November 1812, when the
authorities of the county occupied the house of James Gil-
breath at Kaskaskia. The court had apparently purchased
this house, for on the 3d of March 1818 the clerk is in-
structed to ask said Gilbreath for a deed, and on refusal, to
bring suit against him.
The records of the county commissioners court from Janu-
ary 10, 1810 to June 20, 1814 are missing. On this date
John McFerron and George Fisher held court to try James
Adkins indicted for cruelly beating his negro. The court
fined him 84 00. Adkins filed a bill in arrest of judgment
on the following reasons ; first becau.'e the law of the terri-
tory does not lie for assault and battery against the niastt r
for whipping his servants, as the law gave another remedy
for unmerciful punishment : second because the master may
correct his servant and not be guilty of assault and battery :
third because the indictment is inconsistent as it states that
the assault was committed by the defendent on his indentured
servant : fourth because if the servant is abused the court
are commanded to redress his cause in a summary way and
not by indictment. This bill was overruled and the fine
exacted.
From a report made to this court by sheriff that the
revenue of the county for the year 1814 amounted to S529 -
90, tax was paid on
108 negrws 108.00
491 horses 245-50
Studhorses 18..W
Mansions, mills and di-tillerids .11.90
For licenses M.OO
Single men M.OO
J529.90
It was further reported that Benjamin Stephenson, ex-
sheriff, was in default with the county on account of the
revenue of 1812 and 1813 to the amount of 841 .37i The
affairs of the county from 1815 to 1819 were conducted by
the territorial justices, John McFerron, William Morrison,
James Finney, David Anderson, Philip Fouke, George
Fisher, Archibald Thompson, Antoine L. C'henett, Miles
Hotchkiss and Pierce L. Compte.
A new township. Plum Creek, was formed March 1816,
and is described as follows: All that part north of Spring-
field township and east of the Kaskaskia liver. Meanwhile
the population of Rand( Iph county or southern Illinois had
increased to a considerable extent, in consequence of which
the legislature had deemed it proper to organize several new
countiesout of the territory of old Randolph county, to wit :
Gallatin and Johnson, Sept. 14, 1812, White, December
9, 1815, Jackson, January 10, 1816, and Monroe June 1,
1816, and by doing so had reduced the county to almost its
present boundary.
We find therefore, at the end of this territorial period the
following six townships officered as follows:
Kaskaskia. — All that part lying between Kaskaskia and
Mississippi rivers up to the point of the bluffs and up with
the bluffs to Morgan's run. Shadrach Bond and Michael
Smith supervisors of roads, George Fisher assessor, Dan. L.
Swearingen and Allies Hotchkiss ovtrseer of the poor.
Prairie dii Bocher. — All that part of the county between
the bluflis and the river, above Morgan's Run. Pierre Le-
compte and Patrick Earner, supervisors of roads ; Henry
Barbeau, as.«essor ; Thomas Sterritt and Archibald McNabb,
overseers of the poor.
WiHiaimburg. — All that part lying west of the Kaskaskia
as fiir as the point of the bluffs between the Kaskaskia and
the Mississippi, and up along the bluffs of the Mississippi to
the county line.
Ezra Owens and Otho Leavens, supervisors; David An"
derson, assessor ; Paul Harralson and James Fulton, over-
seers of the poor.
Sprl»;/fcl<l. — All that part of the county south of the road
from Kaskaskia to Shawr.eetown and north of Mary town-
ship and Nine-mile Creek. Jo.«eph Jay and James Hughes,
112
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
sui)ervisors ; William Bariiett, assessor; and Alexander
Barber and John Clendinin, Sen., overseers uf the jmor.
Mari/.—Begi uning at Cul. Edgar's ferry on the Kaskaskia,
aloug the road leading to Harralson's ferry, until opposite
to Thomas Fulton 's, thence east to the county line. William
Bilderhack and William Cochran, supervisors; Robert Tin-
dall, assessor ; and G. Franklin, and Itobert Tindall, over-
seers of the poor.
Plum L'lrek. — Boundary as above. Thomas Widaman^
supervisor of roads ; David Anderson, assessor ; and James
Paltcr.son and James I'attou, overseers of the poor.
The townships of Rocking Cave, Massac, and Mississippi
were now forming counties, and are not further mentioned
iu the records of Randolph county.
A short list of marriages solemnized in the county in the
bcgiuning of the latter half of the territorial period, will
demonstrate better tliau any other evidence, that tiie Ameri-
can population had become the predominant one as early as
ISU'J.
EAltl.Y MAl;HlA(;liS.
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James Fk-niiii); anil llai h. 1 ,~li. li.i , .M.i
James Wilson ami Jam- .\ii.lr.-ii, Mar. li
Marviu Fullor ami JIarsai i-t llaiui..ii, M
Polamlei- Kuykcm.lali- aii.l |i..lly Mm 1 ■. .
Josepl. llarmun ami l-'.li/ ll. Wan-, I .
John Hogan ami l-;ih-mloi- Kol,i-.-(son, .Mi
• John McKerron enteieii the \
II, Man
.•1., kslii, l.y llan.li-l i.-.rL-ll>..li,
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1.-.-, I'.i, islii, liy llaiiil.-t F,Tj;ns.-,n.
..11, Jan. 11, ISU', by Tliomas Fei-gusou.
•_*;), by John Phelps.
Nov. '21, 18111, by Giiliriel Greatliouse.
. ll -.:.., 1-11, l.y (ieorgc Haeker, J. P.
Ill 1.., 1 SI I, by (ieiirno ItacUci'.
11, isll, ly Marvin Fnllcr.
ill 11, IMl, by same.
id nn « hirh Clie.tter stands.
. 'JI, Is
Th
111 .N
■ll by tii-c
in 1S15,
111 lailiaiim- Willis, May 28, 1811, by lieorge Kobinson.
lii.l.- ,\1...-, n. t, :!1, by William Arnndel.
.ami i:ii/,ai.. lb Mathers, Dec. 19, 1811, by Jas Finney, Judge.
.111.- and Dolly Murray, Jannary IG, ISll, by G. Hacker, J. P.
I i'..lly Tindall, April II, 1811, by tame.
I ' .1 kus lin.ssell, May 23, 1811, by same.
!> Mi-l.imi.-hliii, June 0, 1811, by same.
iiiri-is, June 10, 1811, by same.
,111-iiiila Cattn-y, Dec. 28, 1811, by John Phelps, J. P.
i.rds ul the county from 1S12 to October, 1818, have been
Tlie number of licenses issued in 1812 was 17 ; in IS a, lli; in
i in 1816, 8; in 1817, 21; and in 1818, it was 25.
UANDOLPH COUNTY REPRESENTED IN THE TERRITORIAL
LEGISLATURES. — 1795 TO 1818.
Shadrach Boiul, Sr., member of the L.^gislature of the
U S. Tenitory northwest of the River Ohio, 1T99, and of
the House of Representatives of the Territory of Indiana
to the year 1806, and member of the" Council ' (Senate) to
1809.
Shndrach Bond, Jr., member of the House of Repre-
sentatives of the territory of Indiana from 1805 (took the
place of his uncle who had resigned) to 1808.
1809 TO 1S12. ILLI.VOIS TERRIXORY. NO LEGISLATURE.
1812 TO 1818.
Pierre Menard, (*) member of the Legislative Council and
its president from 18r2 to 1818.
George Fisher, (f ) member speaker of the House 1812 to
1814 and 1816 to 1818.
James Gilbreath, elected in 1814, wa.se.xpelled during the
first session — so stated in the Illinois Legi.-^lative Directory of
1881. This work mentions
Jarvis Haz Iton, as member of the House from Ran-
dolph County during the year 1815. Hazelton may have
died or resigned before the expiration of his term, because
William L Reynolds, {%) though not mentioned in the
said directory, was certainly a member of the Legislature
from Randolph County at that very period.
■ M.--
-.1,11
Ih hi
llli!
brother
He
ai rived
n Kaska^k
a aT)out the year 1790, in
Ivpolire
and Franc
is. Pierre was the most
-ajiod in
nieri;haiHl
zing and trading with the
E highest
vi-neratiun,
on account of his upright
pr.imiuent of the tin-
Indians, «ho lield Pi
honomy and purity of intention. Hiskmdne.ss to all the needy was prover-
bial. Tlie govi-rnnient of the United Stales had its .ittention called to this
exemplary man at an early day, and appointed him Indian Agent, which
position he filled for many years. In 17'J5 Pierre Mi^nard was appointed Judge
of tbeCor.rt i.f Comninu Pleas of Randolph County, and in 1SI8 was elected
I,u-iiti-iiiirii..>t-iii"i"f the State, and as such pro-ided over the Slate Senate
IViiiii Isls I., isjj Alt. -r the close of this term of oflfies he declined to accept
piililii stall. .11-, aii.l lb-voted himself to private aft'aii-s. He died in 18-14, and
was buriiil in the old giave yard of K.askaskia.
-i;e Fisher, .1 iiliysieian, was a Virginian, who arrived, according to E.
.ac-uc's Historii-al Skelehes, at Ka.«ka.skia, in 17!is : but the records of
to.
J. Mo
Fislif
tyhave him a m-
as an intlnential
was sherittof Hand Ipli
In 181S lie was elei-ted 11
framed the tirst t'lilistitu
ISOChad opem-il a f.irni 1
rtied-lsi". The region
JWilliamL. Reynolds V
time. Hepubl
Dr.
or of the Conn of Cominoo Pleas in 1793.
mberof the community, and a popular politician^
tnty when the Illinois Territory was organized.
?iiiber of the Constitutional Convention, w-hich
for the Stale of Illinois. Dr. Fisher, who, since
he Prairie du Roeher, remained tliere until lie
ever been known as Dr. Fisher's Settlement,
pi-obably the most diligent representative of his
I in the "Illinois Herald," Kaskaskia, February 1, 1810, a
list of the laws passed at the late session of the Legisia urc, 4u in number,
introducing his list by a lengthy address to the citizens of Randolph county,
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
113
TERRITORIAL OFFICES.
Nathaniel Pope, Secretary of the Territory from 1809 to
1816.
Robert Morrison, Adjutant General, July 18, 180^, to
May 28, 1810.
Elias Rector, his successor, held the office until (JctoUer,
25, 1818.
Shadrach Bond, Delegate to C)ngress, 1812 to 1814.
Nathaniel Pope, Dc^legate to Congress, from 1817 to 1818.
Daniel P. Cook, Auditor of Accounts, January 13, IHIG,
to April, 1817, and Judge of the Western Circuit in 1818.
RANDOLPH COUNTY — 1818 TO 1883.
The State Convention which framed the first Constitution
of the State of Illinois, assembled at Kaskaskia in July,
1818, and completed its work on the 28th of August of that
year. It was composed of thiriy-three members, one of
whom, a member from Washington county, whose name is
unknown, died during the term. These members repre-
sented the then fifteen counties of the territory, three of
which, to wit., St. Clair, Madison and Gallatin, had three
representatives each, while the remaining counties were
represented by two members each.
The session of the Legislature of which your confidence maile m^ a
con>titiient part has come to a close, and rendering up to you the important
trust confided to my care, I feel it my duty to inform yon what laws have been
passed ; you will be better able to judge for yourselves whether your public
servants have exercised that delegated p >wer %vith a view to the political
interest of our common country or not.
Having been elected after nearly half the session had elapsed, a number of
laws were parsed before I took my seat, and at this time I am unable to judge
of their political expediency.
The power of legi-Ulion in lliis territory under the ordinance and tlie
several acts of Cjngress is so confined and clogged, that it is almost put out i>f
the power of the representatives of the peopio to pa'^s those laws, rules and
regulations that the political situations and necessity of the country r-quirc
The memorial forwarded to Congress, praying an alteration in the ordinaiu-o,
if granted to the extent of our prayer, will remedy a host of evil?* under which
the territory now labors, and hereafter your public servants will b » more able
to legislate for the real interest of the country.
I am apprised that some may think tne ma'ting of four new counties is
not justified by the present populatio i. To that opinion permit m** to remark
thai experience and former examples have uniformly proven that in new
countries where counties have been left too long at large, much public
expense for public buildings has been incurred, and on subsequent divisions
wholly lost, therefore, the sooner the country is laid out into counties of
proper shape and size the better for the public interest.
On the eve of the session the President's Proclamation arrived, ordering all
pt-rsons oft the public lands, which produced the deepest emotion." in the
brea-tsof all. It seemed to come like a noxious planet, portending misery
and calamity. And what could have dictated so evil a measure I am unable
to ilivine. A great portion of the citizens of this territory are on Congress
Lands, and to drive them off would in fact almost ruin the present prosperous
condition of our country.
What answer may we not give the General GoTernment — can we not say we
have left the "States" because we were unable to purchase land, and unwilling
to be tenants of the great land holders at whose nod we must bow in the sacrifice
of every noble principle of independence. We fought for a century where we
could enjoy existence uncontrolled by overbearing land holders, where nature
affords abundant food for man, and where we could cultivate the soil of our
beloved country without fee or reward, that soil we have enhanced in value —
that soil we have defended against the arms of a savage enemy, the allies of
England, alone we stood, almost unaided by the general govfrnment, without
that compensation that the whole is bound to give the few for defending them.
When that pay comes many of us will be able to purchase the lands on which
we live from the government. No doubt some sordid miscreant hHS given
the delusive information upon which the proclaination is bottomed, and that,
too, to bring into his pocket a little gain, at the great injury of his fellow man,
etc , etc.
Hon. Reynolds exhibits a little deniagoguery in his concluding remarks.
(The "Herald" of February 1, 18li>, for want of paper of a proper size, was
published for the time being on half sheets of super royal, and the editor had
gone to Kentucky Co obtain a supply.)
15
The members from Randolph county were Elias Kent
Kane and Dr. George Fisher, whose names have heen re-
peatedly meiitioiied iu preceding pages. A glance at the
named of the other members shows that many of the former
citizens of Randolph were now representing other counties,
as, for instance, Jesse B. Thomas, the first territorial judge,
represented St. Clair ; Benjamin Stephenson, formerly
sheriff of Randolph, represented Madison ; Michael Jones,
implicated in the murder of Rice Jones (1808), represented
Gallatin; Caldwell Cairn.s, Monroe county ; Samuel Oniel-
veny, the old squire of Rocking Cave township, represented
Pope ; Isham Harrison and Thomas Roberts represented
Franklin county ; Jesse B. Thomas was president, and \Vm.
C. Greenup, the old court clerk of Randolph, secretary to
the convention.
The constitution was not submitted to a vote of the people
for their approval or rejection, nor did the people have
much to do with the choice of officers generally under it,
other than that of governors, the general as.«emblies, sheriffs,
coroners and county commissioners. The e!ecti\'e franchise
was, however, extended to all white male inhabitants above
the age of twenty one, having resided in the State six months
-next preceding any election. Judges, either supreme, cir-
cuit or probate, prosecuting attorneys, circuit clerks, re-
corders, and even justices of the peace, — all were to be
appointed. The prerogative of appointing, at first enjoyed
by the governor, was soon after vested by law in the legis-
lature.
The first election under the constitution, for governor,
lieutenant-governor, ard m<nd)rrs of the general assembly
was held on the third Thursday and the two succeeding days
in September, 1818.
Shadrach Bond, jr , at that time a resident of St. Clair
county, was elected governor, and Pierre Jlcnard, of Ran-
dolph, lieutenant-governor.
The first General Assembly, elected at the same time, con-
sisted of fourteen senator-, oi'" frou each couuty, with the
exception of Johnson and Franklin counties, they forming
one senatorial district. The house had twenty-nine members,
to wit : four from Gallatin, three from St. Clair, White and
Madison, each ; two from Edwards, Union, Pope, Randolph
and Crawford, each ; and one each from Monroe, Jackson,
Franklin, Bond, Washington and Johnson.
This General Assembly met in first session at Kaskaskia,
on the 5tli of October, 1^18, but adjourned on the 13th of
that mouth, because grave doubts had arisen as to the
legality of the proceedings, inasmuch as Illinois had not
then been regularly admitted as a State into the Union.
The Act of Congress passed December 3d, 1818, removed
this uncertainty, and the A.ssenibly couvened in Second Ses-
sion on the 4th of January, I81'J. Randolph county was
represented in the senate by Johu McFerrou, the old county
commissioner; and in the house by J'^dward Humphrey and
Samuel Walker. Pierre Menard, of Randoli^h, presided in
the senate as lieutenant-governor, and William C. Greenup
acted as secretary. Tnomas Reynolds, chosen clerk of the
house, was also a Randol[)h county mau. The Assembly
elevated other Randolphiaus to high positions, to wit : Elias
114
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Kent Kaiie, Secretary of State; Daniel P. Cook, Attorney-
General ; and Blackwell & Berry, State printers. John
Reynolds, then of Cahokia, but formerly of Randolph, was
chosen Associate Justice of the Supreme Court.*
The Assembly adjourned on the 31st of March, 1819. It
was the last State legislature that ever assembled in the
quaint old French village of Kaskaskia. Vandalia— nomen
et omen — had been selected as the future capital of the State,
after Kaskaskia was stripped of this honor.
But to return to the aifairs of the county, which, in the
interregnum from December, 1818, to May, 1819, had been
conducted by the territorial justices mentioned above. The
last session of these justices was held on the I9th day of
April, 1819. There were then present : Joseph Cro s, Miles
Hotchkiss, Raphael Widen, Alexander Barber, John W.
Gillis. William H. Hays, John Steele, Sr., Gabriel Jones,
John Anderson, Samuel Taylor, Samuel Crawford, Ezra
Owen, William Nelson and Curtis Conn.
In pursuance of a law passed by the General Assembly
at their second session, these justices proceeded to "lay off'"
the county in election precincts. In doing this, they retained
the names and boundary lines of the several townships as
established on February 27th, 18 16, and confined their labor
to selecting places and judges of election :
A'(s/,u«ita.— Court-house ; Philip Fouke, Hypolite Me-
nard and Michael Smith.
I'rairie du Rocher.— House of Archibald McNabb ; An-
drew Barbeau, William Drury and John Fisher.
TJ7//«(wi*6«r3/i.— House of William H. Hays; Paul Har-
ralson, Joseph Sprigg and Norton Hill.
J/u )■!/.— House of James Gaston ; Robert Tindall, James
Clendeuin and Archibald Steele.
SprinyfiekL—Uoniie of John Tygart ; Alexander Barber,
John Bilderback and Micajah House.
Plum Creek.— Home of Washington Sterrett ; William
McBride, Abner Cox and Samuel Crozier.
An election must have been held soon after, for under
date of May 17th, 1819, the following entry was made on
the county records :
Be it remembered, that in pursuance of an act of the peo-
ple of the State of Illinois, represented in the General As-
sembly, entitled An act establishing the courts of county
commissioners, it appearing from certificates from the judges
of election of Randolph county that David Anderson, James
« Reynolds, in his famous work, "My Own Times," tells us that he had been
urged on by his friends to join them in a visit to Kaskaskia during this term
of the Assembly. Upon arrival, they found much excitement at the State capi-
tal, incident to the selection of officers. In a few days he was urged to give his
assent to become a candidate for supreme judge. This request, he says, broke
upon him like a clap of thunder. His consent was yielded ; he was elected.
His experience in the law was four years' practice oi " commerce in land." So
far, the old governor's own words. The writer must say, however, that the
governor certainly had some pretensions of being a jurisprudent, lawyer and
advocate, for it was the writer's good fortuns to have found the following ad-
vertisement in the Illinois Herald, published at Kaskaskia, on the 5th of De-
cember, 1815:
To the Poor People of Illinois and Misiouri Terrilonet : To the above class of
mankind, whose pecuniary circumstances will not admit of feeing a lawyer, I
tender my professional services as a lawyer in all courts I practice in, without
fee or reward. •'"«" ^^•'^o^o^-
This advertisement admits of the following suppositions: John Reynolds
was a philanthropist and an extremely liberal lawyer, or a demagog.ie and ex-
tremely shrewd politician.
Patterson and Curtis Conn were duly elected as such county
commissioners, whereupon the said David Anderson, James
Patterson and Curtis Conn took their seats ; and thereupon
a court was held by the county commissioners of Randolph
county, on the 17th day of May, a. d. 1819.
It is odd that the two first built court houses in this State
have been converted into saloons, for the first court house at
St. Clair county, at Cahokia, still standing, has for an age
or longer, also been converted into a modern " Temple of
Ptrsonal Liberty."
The proceedings of the county board during 1823, 1824
and 18'25 contain nothing of interest. The great anti-slavery
agitation of those years is not mentioned in the county pro-
ceedings. A majority of the prominent men of the county
were pro-slavery men, as stated elsewhere in this chapter-
A county census taken during the year 1825, when the
county aria had been reduced to its present limits, may
find a place here, as also some extracts from the county census
of 1830 and the United States census of 1840.
The other proceedings of this board are of no importance.
Their successors, to wit: David Anderson, James Thompson
and ^[iles Hotchkiss, resolved to build a new court house,
which the county stood so much in need of Nathaniel
Pope, their illustrious fellow citizen, had donated a tract of
land to the county for that purpose as well as for the erection of
a jail and a " stray pound." On the 21st of Decemher, 1819,
the board contracted with J. W. Comley and J. W. Nelson
for the building of a court house, to be constructed of brick
and to be two stories high, for which the county was to pay
them S47d0. Nathaniel Pope contributed also 8300 iu cash
for that purpose, and the county treasurer was iujtructed to
solicit and receive aitl from other citizens. The contribu-
tions were slow in coming in, for on the 7th of June, 1820,
the treasurer was instructed to borrow money for the pur-
pose of paying off the contractors, wherever he could get it
at 6 per cent., and to bring suit against all persons who had
failed to pay donations formerly promised by them, A
special tax of 50 cents per SlOO valuation was ordered, and
as the total assessed value of all the taxable property in the
county was then only 81,585.02, this tax would scarcely net
8700. The county jail was also in a very bad condition,
for the militia had to be called out to guard the prisoners ;
80 men did service of this kind during the year, and received
each 81.25 for 24 hours service.
The new court house was " received " and occupied June
7, 1821, and the contractors were paid a 10 per cent, interest
bearing county order for 81,000 for balance due them March,
1822. It may be, however, that this amount was paid for
repairs of the court house, for the records of September 5,
1821, state, that the court contracted with J. VV. Comley
to put up anew the '■ northwardly" end of the court house,
lately blown down by a violent storm. Nothing further to
chronicle, except the organization of a new election precinct,
March 4, 1822, to be called Union, now Red Bud, with poll
at the house of James Patterson.
The old court house near the Catholic church (formerly
the property of ex-sheriff' Gilbreath) was let to Jesse W.
Cooper on March 5, 1823, to be used as an inn, here called
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
115
a ''grocery" for the time. Cociper puid S60 per annum for
the use of the house, and subsequently in 1825 bought court-
house and grounds for S250, State paper. Rents were still
very high in 182 3
Ci'.nxus of the County, by Th. J. V. Owen. Commission
dated November 25, 1825.
Heads of Families — Town of Kaskaakia. — Jliles Hotcli-
kiss, W. C. Greenup, Samuel Taylor Samuel Smith, Mary
Paine, Leonard Stephens, David J. Baker, Antoine Antya,
Sidney Breese, William Siraont.ui, II. H Maxwell, Elias
Kent Kane, Josiah T. Bills, William Orr, Thomas Rey-
nolds, Edward Riberts, Jesse Francis, Jeptha Siveet, R
M. Young, M D. Smith, Simon Rodergues, John At-
kins, John E Igar, William Steven^, Felix St Vraiii, James
L. Lamb, R. K. Fleming, Thomas Short, Robert JI 'rrison,
William Morrison, Josejih Morrison, Edward Humphreys,
Daniel M. Guthrie, Patrick Kavanaugh, Nathaniel Pope,
Jacob Feamnn, Nathan Cloyes, Jame.s D. Osborn, John
Frankford, Diego R jdergues, Samuel Lybarger, Rowiiia
R'ldergues, Elizabeth La Chapelle, Antoine Dufour. Silas
Leldud, Jesse W. Cooper, W. G. Hiser, Leon Pera, Joseph
Page, Marie L. Chamberlaine, John W. Comly, Ferdinand
Ouger, Elizabeth Barton,T. S. V. Owen, J. B. Seguin, Sr.,
J. B. Seguin. Jr., Celeste Barbeau, Therese Godiu, Raphael
Meudue, Pierre Derouse, ThtrcsThamour (D'Amour), Louis
Masoier, Riga Derouse, Joseph Derouse, Michael B. Dauie,
Michael Danie, (fiddler), C. C. Conway, Louis Lemieux, An-
toine Chamberlain, Placit Casson, Margaret Gaston, Pascal
Las*ouri, Fiancois Menard, Luke Gendron, Baptiste Crota,
Rosalie Creurier, Joseph Gendron, Louis Derouse, Benjamin
Beatt, Ursula Lefleur, Silas Barntelle, Alex's Doza, Alexis
Euos Pierre Derouse, Andre Charleville, Antoine Gendron,
Hugh Woods, Michael Butcher, Charles Derou.se, John Dow-
ling, Philip Fouke, Eltienne Derouse.William M Alexander,
Ursula Levire, Joseph Buyatt, Elizabeth Brewer, Michae
Derouse, Fran(;ois Goruor, Hannah Cowles, Joseph Derouse,
Jr., John Brady, John Grate, Lawson Lovet, Aquilla Can-
trell and N. E. Allen.
The families of these 99 "heads" were composed of 477
members, besides they owned 109 slaves and harbored 31
free persons of color. William Morrison owned 22 slaves,
Francois Menard 21, Sidney Breese 4 and Elias Kent
Kane 5.
Township of Kaskaski.a. — Antoine Buatte, Joseph Tulier^
Julian Jones, Pierre Colme, Louis Seguin, Espazell Seguin,
Gerorae D^-rouse, Magdalen Degazine, Jack Backus, (free
negro), Phebe, a black woman, John Carpenter, Michel Pet-
tier, Joseph Danie, Hip )lite Menard, Joseph Chamberlain,
Louis Buatte, Gabriel Jones, Spencer P. Adkins, Michel
Buatte, Henri Bienvenue, John Paterson, Shadrach Bond,
David Woolscy, Jacob Woolsey, John Wegan, Elijah Lovin,
Baptiste Danie, George Stratton, Alexis Beauvois, Antoine
Danie, Baptiste Reaurae, John Bowers, Joseph Louvalle,
Thorston Thomas, C. B. Danie, Louis M. Derouse, Peter
Wegan, William Langlie, Catherine Lloyd, Richard Wool-
Bey and Allen Richards.
Prairie ilu lioelier — Vi/luye — Henry Connar, John M.
Godeau, Frank Tonga, Therese Blay, John Louvier, Pelagie
Catineau, August Derouse, Michel Duclos, Sen., Joseph Go-
deau, Baptiste Oliver, Baptiste Godeau, Alexis Derouse, Jaa.
Deeper, Charles Blay, William Drury, Francis Champline,
Marie Olliver, Joseph Vasseur, Henri Phebeau, Ellen Degag-
nie. Madam Degagnie, Marianne Blay, Nicholas Durward,
JosephBlay, Baptiste, Roye, Clement Drury, Michel Duclos,
Jr., Antoine Louvier, Jr , Antoine Ix)uviere, Jr., Ichabod
Sergeant, Donation Olliver (priest), August Allard, Ettienne
Langloi.-e, Francis Thebau, Henry Barbeau, Eliza Chene and
Henry Kerr. There were 38 heads of families enumerated at
Du Rocher. The total number of inhabitants of the village
was 202, of whom 28 were slaves and 10 free persons of color.
Township of Da Rocher. — Isadore Godeau, Joseph Bonle-
telle, Archibald McNabb, Audree Roye, Harriet Godeau,
John Drury, Antoine Blay, Gerard Langlois, Antoine Cato,
Andre Barbeau, Antoine Barbeau, Baptiste Barbeau, Bur-
rell Philips, Josia M. Horsey, Michael Smith, Francis Lang-
lois, Abraham Horine, Sylvauus Harlow, James Taylor,
Francis Brown, Reuben Sackett, Ansel Dennis.
Township of WilUamsbunj. — Paul Harralson, Antoine La
Chapelle, William Steele, John C. Sigiion, James Mudd,
Edward Mudd, Joseph Mudd, Francis Mudd, Norton Hull,
Thomas Orr, Ezra Owen, Lewis Hull, Amos Lynn, Henry
Royer, John Linsey, James S. Robinson, Thomas Lindsey,
Elizabeth Lindsey, James Wheland 1st, James Wheland -d,
Henry O'Hara, Hannah Kennedy, E. T. Owen, Alexander
Wilson, Robert Wilson, William Nelson, John Stevenson,
William McBride, Lemuel Owen, Levi Owen, Michael Dil-
lon, Edmund Faherty, Levi Siinmonds, jr., Joseph H. Orr,
Samuel Hill, sr.. Prudence Wilson, .lames Wilson, David
Lawson, A. C. Adams, Joseph Griffin,, John Roles, Emanuel
Evans, Ettienne Pavard, Thomas Hull, Henry Will, James
Adkins, .Lacob Fisher, Thomas Levens, Ignatius Sprigg,
John Smith, Daniel Buel, George Glenn, William Hamil-
ton, John C. Crosier, William Been, Shelton Evans, Levi
Simmoiids, sr , James Connar, John Foran, Adam Youug-
man, Ellison Talbott, Edward Ralls, John Guthrie, Wash-
ington Evans, Thomas Horsell, John Brewer, Zadock Dar-
row, Absalom Tailor, John Adams, Otho Levens, and Eleanor
McNabb.
There were only 5 slaves in this township.
Town-ship Plam-Creek. — James McDonald, Robert M.
^lanu, John Beatty, Andrew Borders, Thomas Finley, Isabel
Euglish, William Findley, James McClurken, John Max-
well, James Munford, .John Thomason, William Pattison,
Burdite Green, Patrick Raines, William Edgar, Adam Ed-
gar, David Ferris, Jane Beatty, William M. Maun, .James
Pollock, Robert Pollock, William Hill, James Hathorn,
David Hathorn, John Beaird, Robert Hill, William Hand-
ly, Andrew McCormick, George McCormick, Alexander
McKelvey, Andrew McFerron, Robert Poster, David Ander-
son, .John Campbell, Robert Miller, John Cochran, James
Couch, John Allen, Samuel McClinton, William McCliuton,
John G. Nelson, John Barnet, Samuel Morris, Willianj
Allen, George Wilson, Samuel Nisbet, Archibald Thomp-
son, jr., Larkin Dial, Robert G. Shannon, Samuel Y. Henry,
James Gordon, Samuel Stubblefield, John Irvin, Samuel J.
Thompson, James Thompson, Moses Thompson. Samuel
116
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Crosin, Samuel Hathorn, John Thompson, James Croain,
Robert Win, Margaret St. Clair, William T. Chambers,
Thomas McDill, Thomas Swanwick, Samuel Hill, Thomas
McBride, John Anderson, sr, William Gordon, Martin
Wilson, William Temple, Robert Muggins, John McMillan,
jr., Arthur Parks, James McNulty, Hugh Leslie, Robert
McMillan, James Anderson, sr., John McKelvey, Charles
McKelvey, John McMillan, sr., William McDill, William
Thompson, James Wilson, jr , John Boyd, sr., Joseph Cath-
cart. Smith Dickey, James Clark, Thomas Armour, John
McDill, Samuel Leard,sr., Absalom Cox, Martin Gray,
Alexander R. Leslie, Isaac Scudder, Isaac Rainey, Samuel
Pitchford, John Hutchings, J. R. Hutchings, William Elliot,
William Hodge, John Murdoch, John Wiley, Samuel Stor
jjiant, Hugh McKelvey, Absalom Wilson, Alexander Mc-
Kelvey, jr., William Stormaut, David Cathcart, Alexander
Campbell, sr., John Dickey, William Marshal, James H.
Beatty, Alexander Dickey, Samuel Wiley, Alexander Alex-
ander, John Alexander, James Beaird, William Wiley, Wil-
liam Campbell, John Armour, James Patterson, John Dob-
bins, James Strahan, John Bilderback, John Miller, sr ,
Archibald Thompson, sr., William Lively, Turner Lively,
John Lively, James Stoker, James S. Guthrie, William Mc-
Bride 3d, J. Wilkinson, Asa Scott, James Lively, James
McMurdo, Josiah Little, Samuel Little, Robert Edgar,
Joseph Win, Samuel L. Weir, Kobert Caldwell, Archibald
McMillan, James Wilson, sr., William Morris, William
Miller, J. W. Henderson, J. W. Alcorn, Andrew Ross,
Elizabeth Richey, Robert Thompson, sr., Robert Thompson,
jr., John Anderson, jr., James Anderson, jr., Patsey Little,
John McBride, John Haire, William Boyd, Samuel Doug-
lass, Henry Nore, James Redpath, Frederick Holden, Samuel
Leard, jr., Allen Been, Ralph Scudders, John Briggs, Wil-
liam McBride, sr., and Joseph Bratuey.
Township of Sprinrifield. Pierre Menard, Enoch Lively^
William Robinson, Shadrach Robinson, John Taggart, John
Mahon, John Lacey, John Pillars, James Murphy, D. Olliver,
Alexander Campbell, Jr., Shadrach Lively, Sr., Thomas
Roberts, Charles C. Glover, Aquila Brown, Antoine La-
brier, George Franklin, Josias S. Briggs, Richard Robinson,
jr., Justus Rockwell, John Reynolds, James Fisher, Joseph
Jay, John F. Berry, Joseph Harman, Jonathan Bowerman,
Lemuel Barker, Ezekiel Barber, Sarah Lee, Rachel Hughes,
James McFarland, Jesse Bowerman, Jacob Bowerman, W.
H. Threlkel, Richard Green, Hugh Brown, John Murphy,
sen., Joshua Davis, James Herd, Jonathan Petit, Elizabeth
Fowler, James Huggins, William Irick, Charles Stratton,
Mary Bilderback, Samuel Crawford, Antoine Montroy,
John Murdock, James McMillan, Denard Short, Eli Short,
Matthew Vann, John Murphy, Jr , Abijah Leavitt, Abigail
Pitchford, Julia Ricor, Calvin Lawrence, Harrison Colbert,
Jane Jones, Isabel Hilton, Stace McDonough, Anderson
Candle, William Porter, Jane Bilderback, Susan Harman,
Isaac Slater, William Turner, George Harman, Daniel Tag-
gart, Richard Pillars, Archibald Snodgrass, John Young,
John Taylor, James Milligan, James McDonough, Isaac
Leard, Solomon Foresee, John Foresee, William Coddle,
Amos Anderson, David Looney, Richard Robinson, Joseph
Robertson, Silas Crisler, John Huggins, Joseph Lively,
Robert Gant and Samuel Hughes.
Township of Mary. Curtis Conn, William Jay, William
Bilderback, James Bilderback, Alexander Barber, John
Crane, Wiley Lane, Susannah Lane, Malakiah Holleman,
Stephen B. Tilden, James Clendenen, John Clendenen,
Henry Petit, Adonijah Ball, James Steele, George Steele.
William C. Marlin, William J. Lane, Alexis Buatt, William
Cochran, Baptiste Montreal, David Hoar, Thomas F. Steele,
Bryant Axom, Nathan Conant, J. D. Starnes, Samuel
Manseo, Francois Montroy, Jehu Ertes, George Master.=,
William Paine, Joel Crane, David Petit, Demanda Petit,
Shadrach Lively, jr., Genevieve Ravel, Nicholas Buatt,
Benjamin A. Porter, John Griffin, William Hodge, John
Cochran, sen., Asaph Smith, Wdliam Smith, Reuben Ertes,
Robert GrifMn, Sarah Johnson, William Manseo, Isaiah
Vineyard, Benjamin Grain, John Hindman, Andrew P.
Cochran, Daniel Sandbon, James Johnson, Martha Herd,
Antoine P. Bienvenue, Joseph Curry, Pierre Reaume, Jean
R. Geiidron, John Harman, John Vineyard, Robert Tindell,
Reuben Tiudell, Joseph Archambeau, John Starnes, sen.,
Harvey McNeely, Archibald Steele, John Steele, Sr., John
Steele, jr., Duran Houseman, Richard Giviu, Leonard Garter,
Charles Bilderback, Cornelius Adkins, William Fowler,
Mary Bapart, James Gillespie, Robert Davis and John Davis.
ThP pnpulalion of the
asiainJividuals,— to wil
as eiuuiiei-atea by Mr. Owen,
Wliites 3481
Negroes— slaves 240
Negroes — free 91
Bkia Whiles T2C
Slaves 137
Free negroes... 48
911
I Dn Rofher Whites 287
Slaves 62
Free negroes... 13
..Whites 421
Free negroes... 3
430
Plum Creel! Whites 971
Slaves 12
Free negroes.... ^
988
Springfiel.l Whites .181
Slaves 21
Free negroes... 21
..Whites 49*
Slaves 12
Free negroes.... 1
The report does not contain any further items of interest,
except an enumeration of what it calls " manufactories " of
Randolph county to wit: eight distilleries, nine horsemills,
three inclined wheel grist mills, one water grist mill, and
one " ditto " saw mill, three cotton gins, one carding machine,
two house carpenters carrying on business, three shoe manu-
factories, two hat, ditto, five blacksmith shops, one " bake "
ditto, two tailor ditto, one saddle manufactory and one spin-
ning wheel ditto. The location of those manufactories and
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
117
mills is not given, nor by whom they were operated. The
presumption is, that those eight distilleries were sufficiently
large enough to supply the 800 male adults of the county
with the so much needed production. Not a word is said
about the occupation of the people with the exception that
Michael Danie was a fidler at Kaskaskia, and Don Oliver
a priest at Do Rocher
Another county census taken in 1830 by John C. Crozier
is more elaborate. From it we learn, that the population
had increased to 4448 since 1825, 99 of whom were slaves,
and 102 free negroes. 661 persons over 18 and under 45
years of age were enrolled as militia men and 911 were
voters. William Morrison was running a copper steam
distillery and a water grist mill, while his neighbor Na-
thaniel Pope contented himself with one steam saw and grist
mill. James O'Hara operated a water grist mill and a cop-
per distillery. Enos Christy operated an inclined wheel
grist mill, two carding machines and an oil press ; William
Nelson a copper distillery and grist mill ; Samuel Crawford
had a spinning machine, Jiseph Bratney a water saw mill,
Robert Forster a band mill and a steam distillery. Horse-
mills were operated by Andrews Borders, William Paltison,
James Beaird and John Armour. George Steele operated
an inclined wheel grist mill, and David Steele a copper
distillery, as also Robeit Tindall and Andrew Crozier. Felix
St. Vrain operated a steam saw mill. The following me-
chanics were mentioned also :
BlacLmiflis: A. B. Brown, W. T. Evans. Silas Leland,
Samuel Lybarger, John Mann, Jarret Wilkeson, David
Woodside, Robert C. Jones, J. B. Burk and John Stejih-
enson.
]V(ir/onmiihcrK : Aquila Brown and Jacob Harman.
Coopers: Thomas Horrell, John Harman, George Har-
man, and Seth Allen.
r(U!?!fT8; Maurice D. Smith, Samuel Hull, Elisha Sty-
mour, Wm. McDill, Wm. Gordon, Andrew Allen.
Harness makers : George Lamb, Robert G Shannon.
Shoemakers: John Reynolds, Michael Peiiiiy, James
Strathan, Wm. Gordon, Solomon Foresee, Justus T. Rock-
well.
Hatter: Jacob Feaman.
Tailors: Ferdinand Unger, Robert G. Shannon.
Cabinet ma ktrs and turners: Harry Fulton, Henry Res-
inger, Stanley G. Peet, Wiley Lain, Wm. C. Marlain.
Tinner: Julian Chenoux.
Patt Kavanaugh operated at one and the same time a
saddler, cooper, shoemaker, and a tailor shop. Cotton gins,
and press were operated by Wm. Pattison, John Patterson
and Levi Simmons, and shingle shaving machines by Robert
Miller and by Charles Bilderback. The following data are
taken from the U. S. census reports of 1840.
The census of 1840 gave Randolph county a population
of 7,944 in the aggregate, 133 of whom were slaves and 188
free colored people ; 50 people were over 70 years of age, 2
of whom were over 90 years old. The occupations of the
people of Randolph were defined as follows: mining 7, ag-
riculture 1,895, commerce 116, manufactures and trades
360, navigation 1, learned professions and engineers 48,
Revolutionary soldiers 1. * The unfortunates were : 2 deaf
and dumb, 3 blind and 6 insane. Education could be had
in one college, attended by 50 students; one academy, with
25 scholars; 14 common schools, with 403 pupils ; 78 adults
were unable to read or write.
The census reports of 1840 state that 11 men were em-
ployed in digging coal, producing 6,011 bushels, and that
§525 were invested in that business; that there were in the
county 5,742 mules, 16,847 cattle, 7,688 sheep, 25,338 hogs,
and $8,402 worth of poultry ; that the farmers of the county
had harvested in 1839, 56,792 bushels of wheat, 803 of bar-
ley, 76,051 of oats, 1,042 of rye, 377 of buckwheat and
301,342 of corn; besides 9,091 pounds of wool, 256 of hops,
985 of wax, 18,177 bushels of potatoes, l.O.iOtons of hay, 83
tous of hemp, 11,174 pounds of tobacco. SOO potinds of rice (f),
5,776 of cotton and 719 of sugar. 7,085 cords of wood were
sold ; butter and cheese brought S4,603 to the diligent house-
keeper ; orchards produced |2,9o8 worth of fruit ; linsey
and woolsey made at home on the hand-loom, now an almost
unknown and forgotten apparatus, were otimated atS6,96I,
and gardening yielded S347. There were 10 commission
houses in the county, having a capital of $51,000 invested ;
32 retail houses, with 878,820 capital ; 4 lumber yards, with
S6,000, giving employment to 28 hands; 4 men were em-
ployed in " internal transportation " (^running stage-coaches) ;
4 others were engaged in butchering and packing, having a
capital of §12,500 invested in that business. The products
of the forest were 83,617 worth of lumber and 8773 worth
of skins and furs; 13 men produced bricks and lime to the
value of 81,523. One fulling mill and woolen manufactory,
with a capital of 81,500, gave employment to 4 persons and
produced 8400 worth of goods ; 4 persons were engaged in
manufacturing tobacco, had 81,000 invested in the business
and turned out 8350 worth of the wef d. There were then 6
tanneries in the county, which turned out 2 420 sides of sole
leather and 2 084 of upper leather, employed 13 hands and
had 87,850 invested in the business; there were 2 saddleries,
with 8600 capital and 2 hands, who manufactured 81,200
worth of articles ; 4 distilleries, giving employment to 13
men, turned out 5,:>00 gallons of whisky. Randolph county
had 2 printing offices and 1 bindery, emj)loying 5 men,
capital invested |1,800 ; 6 flouring, 8 grist and 11 sawmills,
with an investment of 871,000, gave employment to 39 men.
The value of products, including 11,000 barrels of flour
shipped, amounted to $81,050. Boats, valued at $1,500,
* From a list of Revolutionary soldiers drawing pensions as such, and having
been residents of the State of Illinois, we found that the following residents of
the county ot Randolph drew such pensions, to wit: John Edgar, captain U. S.
Navy, admitted by special act of May 26, 1830 ; commencemeni of pay March 3,
1826, W80 per annum ; the full amount drawn was 82,201.33. General Edgar died
December 19, 1830. The amount mentioned was drawn by his administrators
Charles McNabb, private Maryland Continentals, drew 800 per annum. George
Stamm, privaTe Maryland Continenlals. drew ggc per annum. William Fowler,
private South Carolina militia, drew 820 per annum. Paul Harratson, private
South Carolina militia, drew 862.50 per annum. We annex a list of Invalid Pen-
tioncTS of the War of 1812 and the Indian wars prior to 1816, residing in Ran-
dolph county: Julian Bart, a Virginian (mentioned heretofore as a fit subject
for charily), served in the Illinois militia, was pensioned Sept. 1, 1815, received
88 per month, and lived long enough to draw $1,104.80. David Hoar, from Mass-
achusetts, private 31st U. 8. Infantry. William Henly (Tennessee), Dyer's
regiment of militia. Armistead Jones, Illinois militia. William Lippincott
(New York), 2d U. S. Infantry. William Lane, Tennessee volunteers (U. S. ser-
vice). Eli Short, Kentucky volunteers (U. S. service).
118
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES. ILLINOIS.
were built duriug the year, aud 66 mechanics erected 4
brick and 20 wooden houses, at an expense of $15,760.
COUNTY FINANCES — 1819 TO 1844.
The financial condition of the county remained as it had
been in territorial times ; the expenditures, though most
sparingly made, exceeded the revenue. On the 17th of
December, 1825, an interesting report was filed by Thomas
J. V. Oiven, treasurer and sheriff, who had been authorized
by the county commissioners to examine all books and pa
pers bearing on the subject of county finances since 1819.
He reported that the county had expended the following
amounts of money, to wit :
In tlie year 18W Sl,108."l>4
" 1820 T^S.b-%
" " 1821 2,0u6.23
" " 1822 1,821.40
" 1823 920.175^
" " 1824 1,C1.1.24'4
" 1825 1,991.925^
And that the revenue of the county during all that time had
been considerably less than the allowances made ; that now,
on the 17th of December, 1825, there were county orders
out and unpaid, calling for the enormous amount of $3,811.-
671, and that the total revenue to be expected for the cur-
rent year amounted to only $1408.993, to wit : tax on land,
695.48i, and on other property, $813.01 i.
During the administration of the 7th board — Arthur
Parks, Josiah Betts and Franklin P. Owen — the first free
schools were organized, one in township 5 S., Range 7 \V.,
called Liberty School District, on petition of Archibald
Thompson and others ; the other at Unionville, on the peti-
tion of David Hathorn and others.
A few years later, during the administration of Thomas
Roberts, William G. Hizer and John Thompson, Samuel G-
Thompson (in 1833) was appointed commissioner of schools,
and authorized to sell the lands donated by the Federal
Government for the purpose of aiding public schools.
Thompson was very dutiful and accurate in filing reports,
which were all approved but »oi recorded.
The above mentioned board, in 1825, made an effort to
enliven business at the old village, and on the 29th of Octo-
ber appointed a board of inspectors for the harbor of Kas-
kaskia. This board consisted of Curtis Conn (the probate
judge), Gabriel Jones and William G. Hizer. They were
authorized to have warehouses erected, and instructed to
inspect beef, pork, flour, hemp, tobaQCO, and other articles
of exportation ! No report of their labors is found.
The next reference to the financial condition of the county
was made March 9, 1831, when the "enormous amount " of
unpaid county orders of December, 1825, had been reduced
to 891.61, with not a cent of money in the treasury.
This condition of affairs remained unchanged till 1836 and
subsequent years, when the county drew large amounts from
the State Improvement fund.
The legislature of the State had, in an evil hour, inaugu-
rated a system of public improvements, to be carried on by
State oflBcers under the supervision of the legislature.
The impetus to the system, at the expense, or, more
properly speaking, on the credit of the State, was given by
George Farquer, a senator of Sangamon county, in 1834.
(He had lived for years in Randolph and Monroe counties,
had laid out the present city of Waterloo, and been county
commissioner sortie years). His plans, however, failed. J.
M. Strode, senator of all the country including and north of
Peoria, had a bill passed in 1835 authorizing a loan of one-
half a million of dollars on the credit of the State. This
loan was negotiated by Governor Duncan in 1836, and with
this money a commencement was made on the Illinois Canal
in June, 1836.
The great town lot speculation had reached Illinois about
that time. The number of towns multiplied so rapidly, that
it seemed as though the state would be one vast city. All
bought lots and all dreamed themselves rich ; and in order
to bring people to those cities in embryo the system of in-
ternal improvements was to be carried out on a grand scheme.
The agitation became general and the indiflerence of the
busy farmer was taken for tacit consent. The legislature,
on the 27th of February, 1837, provided for the building of
about 1300 miles of railroads, appropriating eight millions
of dollars for that purpose, two hundred thousand of which
were to be paid to counties not reached by these proposed
railroads as an indemnity. Two millions of dollais were
voted for highways and river improvements, so as to remove
impediments to navigation, fifty thousand of which were to
be expended on the Ka^kaskia river, and a loan of four
millions was authorized to complete the canal from Chicago
to Peru. And as a crowning act of folly, it was provided
that the work should commence simultaneously on all the
proposed roads at each end and from the crossings of all the
rivers.
No previous survey or estimate had been made, either of
the routes, the costs of the work, or the amount of business to
be done by them The arguments in favor of the system
were of a character most difficult to refute, composed as they
were partly of fact, but mostly of prediction. In this way
it was proved, to general satisfaction by an ingenious orator
in the lobby, that the state could well afford to borrow a
hundred million of dollars, and expend it in. making internal
improvements. None of the proposed railroads were ever
completed ; detached parts of them were graded on every
road, the excavations and embankments of which have long
remained as a memorial of the blighting scathe done by this
legi-lature A special session of the next legislature, held
in 1839, repealed the system and provided for winding it up,
for it had become apparent that no more loans could be ob-
tained at par. Under this system a state debt of $14,237,-
348 had been created, to be paid by a population of less
than 500,000 souls.
Randolph county was represented in the legislature of
1834—1836 by Thomas Mather, senator, who resigned in
1835, to be succeeded by the late Richard B. Servant, aud
by Richard G. Murphy and John Thompson, members of
the house, and in 1836—1838, by said Servant, as senator
and James Shields and Samuel G. Thompson.
We were unable to ascertain, how these gentlemen voted,
but from the fact that Thomas Mather was soon after ap-
pointed a member of the board of fund commissioners —
HISTORY OF EAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
119
practical and experienced financiers to contract for loans, etc-
it raniKit be doubted that he voted aye.
lu the next legislature, ISoS to 1^40, by which the system
was repealed, the county was represented by senator Servant,
and Gabriel Jones and E. Menard, members of the house,
and there cannot be a question about the vote of those
gentlemen.
The population of Randolph county was then about 7000,
and its proportional part of the debt was fully 200,000 dol-
lars, and yet, the county fared far better than her sister
counties, as it was not reached by the proposed routes and
consequently shared in the 200,000 dollars indemnity fund
mentioned herein.
Xathan Conant, Ferdinand Maxwell, Thomas McDill,
John C. Crozier and James Clendenin were appointed com-
missioners to view roads and report where improvements
were most needed. This unexpected wealth, placed at the
disposition of the county authorities, who had struggled for
forty years to defray the county expenses out of a minimum
of revenue, caused the inauguration of public improvements
in the county, such as had never been witnessed before. 21
substantial bridges were built, and thousands of dollars ex-
pended on the improvement of public roads, and still large
amounts of money remained in the treasury. An order of
the county board, Wm. G. Hizer, Samuel Douglas and
Harvey Clendenin, made on the 7th of December 1838, pro-
vided that 12,000 dollars of the improvement fund should be
loaned out, at 10a annual interest, to citizens of the county,
in sums of from 50 to 100 dollars cash. 141 citizens of the
county availed themselves of this opportunity, and §10,-
636.00 were loaned out ere the close of the year.
This order was soon after succeeded by other orders, call-
ing in the money, as it was needed for other improvements.
The records of the county do not contain any information
as to the §50,000 appropriated for the improvement of the
Kaskaskia river, but it is to be presumed that a part of it
was exi>ended for said purpose.
The balance of this improvement fund, amounting to
$9,945, as per report of April 14th, 1840, was reduced to
$3,115.42 in 1844, when it was placed in the county
treasury and used as county revenue.
The financial reports of the county officials from 1825 ifo
1843 were not recorded, but the "Kaskaskia Eepublican "
of December 23d, 1843, brought a lengthy report called,
" An abstract of the fiscal concerns of Randolph county for
the current year, commencing on the 6lh day of December,
1842." We introduce here an extract of said abstract:
The income of the county was stated to have been as
follows:
Fines collected 8 6G.0O
Licenses collected I85.UU
Taxesof 1842 and hack taxes collected 2,828.11
Improvement fund notes and interest collected (j98.2.'i
83,777.36
EXPENDtrURES.
Co. offices, stationery and fuel, etc 8 75.r,7
Courts, jurors and bailiffs 2il8.f.o
Elections I28..'i()
Jail and inmates 27.!(I
Officers, compensation of -l.fHIi.'JJ
Paupers H77.4.')
Roads and bridges I,u35.44 $3,402.80
Balance in treasury $374.56
The report further stated, that the ytar commencing on
the 6th of December, had opened with a balance of SI, 496.-
47 of outstanding county warrants, and that this floating
debt of the county had thus been reduced to §1,148.91.
The pauper expenses were stated too high, inasmuch as
Stuart Bilderback had in 1842 built a poor-house for the
county at an expense of §125.00. This building was
erected on west half of the northeast fractional quarter of
section thirteen in township six south, range eight west
During the period of apparent prosperity numerous towns
had been laid out and improved in the county, and consid-
ering the very inconvenient location of the county seat, it
was but natural that other and more accessible towns should
make eflbrts to become the capital of the county. A short
sketch of th's strife will be of interest to the reader.
CHANGE OF COUNTY SEAT FROM KASKASKIA TO CHESTER.
The question of changing the county seat to a more
accessible and safer point, became general after the great
flood of 1844.* The Kaskaskians became greatly alarmed,
and Parson Percy of the '' Republican," published at
Kaskaskia, fought manfully for the old village. He waa
aided by msny able correspondents, whose communicationg
are signed by various noms-du-plume, "Aristides" and
"Sophocles," philosophical and eloquent effusions did no
more execution than "Zip's" flippancies, or "Taxpayer's"
homilies. "Ecce Homo's' pathetic expectorations are also
in vain, while "Sans Culotte " (Without Pants) does harm
by bis French impetuousness. "C\res" appeals tearfully
to the readers in behalf of Kaskaskia. A bill providing
for the selection of a permanent seat of justice, for the
county of Randolph, was introduced in the General Assem-
bly in January, 1847, and became an "Act" by approval
of the governor, January 30th, 1847.
This Act was artfully worded and clearly designed to
abandon Kaskaskia as the county seat. It provided, 1st,
that an election should be held on the first Monday of April
1847, as between all towns having aspirations to become or
remain the county capital ; 2d, that if one of the contending
towns should receive a majority of all the votes cast at taid
election, a second election should be held on the first Monday
of May, 1847, to decide between the three towns having
obtained the most numerous vote at the first election ; and
3d, that in case no absolute majority was obtained, a third
election should be held on the first Monday of June, 1847,
to decide between the two towns having received the greatest
number of votes at the second election.
'Ferdinand MartceU's Official Report in rsfcrrncc to the food of 1844.— This day,
June 28th, A. D. 1844, I have witnessed the whole of the town of Kaskaskia
inundated by the high water, some seven feet upon an average. The whole
population of the place removed over on the hills or high lands opposite, and
a great many took shelter at Col. Pierre MenardV house. On Wednesday, the
2Clh of June, the steamboat Indiana, Captain Ludwig, landed near Col. Men-
ard's house, which may be known by cin<lers from stone coal which was thrown
out at the place where she landed, which is southwest from the spring not
over fifty yards, and she remained a few hours and took away the sisters or
nuns, who were teaching a school in the village at the time of the flood, to
St. Louis. :^I.iny houses were carried off by the water; the water commenced
ri8ing4tbout the r2th of Juno an<i commenced falling about five o'clock, P. M.,
this 28th day of June. Given under my hand, F. Maxwell, Clerk.
120
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
The result of the first election was as follows :
For Kaskaskia 3" ™',f »•
For Chester "' „
For Sparta *J^
For Evansv.lle 2" .^
For Centre "J „
For Geographical Centre ^
Total vote 1'36.
It should be borne in mind that at the general election of
1846, when Lyman Trumbull contested the re election of
Robert Smith for member of congress, with the utmost rigor,
the county of Randolph had cast only 1206 votes in all.
Parsons Percy commented on this circumstance very se-
verely. The second election left Kaskaskia out of the race,
and the " Republican " now embraced the cause of Sparta,
not because it loved Sparta more, but because it hated
Chester more intensely. He is aided by a correspondent,
"Old Kaskaskia," who is loud in his denunciations of
Chester. "Some parties interested in the sale of lots," says
' O. K.,' " have filed a bond to donate S:3,.500 for the erec-
tion of public buildings at Che.ster." Three of them, Mather,
Lamb and Opdyke, are not even residents of Chester, but of
New Orleans and Springfield, and Mather was the president
of the " rotten " State Bank of Illinois.
Sparta was championed by Andrew B trders, R. G. Shan-
non, John A. Wilson, Joseph Faruan, William Roseborough,
8. W. McClurken, James A. Foster, E. S. Peck, L-
Murphy and J- C. Holbrook, who had made the solemn
promise, signed and sealed, that they at their own expense
would build a substantial courthouse 40x45 feet, and two
stories high, if Sparta were to be chosen.
The result of the third election is commented on by Percy
as follows :
"The county-seat election came off" on the 7th of June,
1847. Never perhaps in the annals of history was the elec-
tive sufi"rage more grossly violated. Votes from an adjoining
state were freely taken— boys and 'persons of doubtful
blood' were accepted. Chester performed her part with
much eclat, and Sparta was not much behind, if we are cor.
rectly informed. This game was played off by both of those
rival towns for the purpose of breaking down Kaskaskia,
which they have both been trying to do for years past. We
have no doubt that two-thirds of the voters of the county are
dissatisfied and would be, no matter which of those two
points were successful. So far as we can learn Chester has
received a majority of forty votes, but the people of Sparta
intend contesting the election.
Had the previous election been conducted with fairness,
Kaskaskia would still remain the county-seat, and we think
it hard to lose it by such dishonorable means as have been
resorted to. We give below the official returns of this hon-
orable (?) election, and leave it to the people to make
what comments th°y please upon this extraordinary increase
of the population of Randolph county.
For Sparta.
. . 83 votes
For Chester.
Kaskaskia 120 votes Kaskaskia. . . .
Prairie du Rocker 52 " Pi airie du Roche
Union ,^ " Union
Georgetown 113 ' (Georgetown . . .
Liberty ^^1 ;; L.herty .... .
Sparta '.■-■.■.'. '.'.'.'■'■'■'■ _>^ " Spa"a
1082 "
The next county election, August, 1847, brought out 1428
votes, from which it is to be iuferred that some 60:) or more
illegal votes were polled at said election of Juae 7, 1847.
The fact of accepting fraudulent votes is admitted by
various citizens who witnessed the affdir D. S. Lybaiger,
Esq., a native of Kaskaskia, informed us that the Spar-
tans had been as suspicious of the Chesterians, as these of
those. Committees to reconnoitre and to act as challengers
had been sent from Chester to Sparta, and vice versa. He,
(Lybarger), had arrived at Sparta on the night before the
election, and had noticed the arrival of numerous " visitors"
from adjacent counties. On the morning of the election the
Chester challengers were refused admittance to the poll,
whereupon he was sent back to Chester to report. He had
made the trip in less than one hour and thirty minutes. Soon
after his return, the S|)artau challengers at Chester had
made their exit, through door or window, " they had not
been ' particular,' at all, at all." During election neither
Leonidas nor any other Spartan was seen at Chester, but
Joseph Mattingley's horse-boat had made many trips bring-
ing in voters from the other side. Flat-boatmen also had
voted diligently and repeatedly, but it was not true, that
the good steamboat Red Cloud had landed a number of
passengers and her crew to vote, nor had the boat itself
" voted for Chester" as the Spartans had charged.
The Spartans made an earnest effort to contest the ehc-
tion. An investigation conducted by M. Morrison before
three magistrates, developed the fact, proved by witnesses
from Chester and Bois Brule Bottom, Mi.ssouri, that 135 ille-
gal votes had been polled at Chester, and that besides there
appeared on the pull book 70 names, not known to the "old-
est" inhabitants, also supposed to be fraudulent. " Kaskas-
kia Republican," July 31, 1847.
The county seat matter was finally disposed of by the
circuit court, November term 1847, and decided in favor of
Chester, whereupon the county board was convened by the
chairman in, as was subsequently charged, an illegal man-
ner, causing another outburst of indignation and lengthy
preambles and resolutions passed in citizens' meetings at
Kaskaskia and Preston.
The said session of the county board was held in the court-
house at Kaskaskia, on the 2:id of November, 1847.
Present: Edward Campbell, William McBride and James
Gillespie. The following order was then and there passed
by a unanimous vote, to wit:
Order in reference to remove the public records from Kas-
kaskia to Chester.
"Whereas the judge of the circuit court of Randolph
county has decided that the proceedings had by the president
and board of trusteeo of the town of Sparta, in said county,
in the matter of the county seat of said county are illegal
and void ; and whereas, the injunction sued out by said
president and board of trustees of Sparta against the county
commissioners of said county has been dissolved by his honor,
Judge Koerner, at the late term of our circuit court held on
the 15th inst. : Therefore ordered, that and in pursuance of a
law of the General Assembly of the State of Illinois, entitled
an act for the location of a permanent county seat for Ran-
120A
COUfiT HOUSE.
PUBLIC BUILDINGS RANDOLPH CO /LL.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
121
dolph county, approved January 30, 1847, the records of
Rindolph cjunty be forthwith conveyed to the town of
Vhexfer, the present county seat of said county, and that the
respective officers of Randolph county and the clerk of the
court remove thereto and transact all official business re-
quired by law to be done at the county seat at said taint of
Ch'jifci; in the county aforesaid."
The order is signed by each member individually. The
court then adjourned to the next day, when William McBride
had the following words entered on the record: I want it
understood that I was in favor of not entering the order for
removing the records to Chester until our December term of
our court.
William McBride.
This order, passed at a session of the board " irregularly
called," gave rise to outbursts of public clamor. Indignation
meetings were held at Kaskaskia on the 10th of December,
presided over by J. Feaman, with 8. St. Vrain as secretary ;
at Preston, on the 15th of December, William Rainey pre-
siding, and at various other places, in which meetings, reso.
lutions were passed condemning the frauds perpetrated
at Chester, and the "indecent" haste of the county commis-
sioners.
The county election, August 2d, 1847, had been a very
spirited one, but failed to bring out more than 1428 voters.
James Thompson was defeated by John Campbell, by a ma-
jority of 260 votes; John A. Wilson defeated Henry Bil-
derback and Anthony Steele by a plurality of 30 and 28 for
sheriff. J. W. Gillis, the champion of Kaskaskia, was re-
elected recorder over E. Walker and J. D. Spindle. S. St.
Vrain was defeated by F. Maxwell for county clerk. H. H.
Baker defeated J. H. Clendenin, W. S. Hughes, and J. H.
McCarty for treasurer. Samuel G. Thompson was elected
surveyor by an absolute majority over Ignatius Sprigg, and
E. Leavenworth and D S. Lybarger were chosen coroners.
Two county officers, J. W. Gillis, the recorder, and Charles
D. Kane, the circuit clerk, continued to hold forth at the
old court-house peremptorily refusing to obey the above order.
TilE COUNTY COURT AT CHESTER.
The regular December term, 1847, of the county board
was held in the school-house at Chester, which said house
was furnished as a temporary court-house by the citizens of
said town.
The county board remonstrated with the disobedient
county officials, and succeeded in getting the circuit clerk to
locate his office at Chester. The recorder, however, was
notified on the lltli of November, 1848, that if he failed to
remove his office to Chester by the 6th of March, 1849, the
office of recorder would be declared vacant. Gillis was
ousted by this order, but the people reinstated him by tri-
umphantly re-electing him to the office.
The election for delegates to the Constitutional Conven-
tion 1347-8 resulted in the election of Ezekiel W. Robbins
and Richard B. Servant for Randolph county The form
of county government was changed under the new constitu-
tion, which provided for county courts to be composed of a
judge and two associate justices for each county. These
16
officers were to be elected on Tuesday after the first Monday
of November, 1849, and to serve for a term of four years.
The old county board held their last meeting on the 4th
day of December, A. D. 1849.
The site of the present court-house at Chester was selected
by the county board on the lOih of January, 1849. The
lots on which it was erected had been donated to the county
by Seth Allen. The building was erected by William
P. Haskins, at the expense of private individuals.
William W. Taylor contracted with the county board for
the building of the old jail at Chester on the 16th January,
1819. The jail site was also donated by Seth Allen, but the
building was paid for (-5140) by the county.
The valuation of taxable property in 1849 amounted to
81,124,993. The tax levy was thirty-five cents per 100 —
aggregating §3,937.47, of which amount $244.40 were re-
turned " delinquent."
The population of the county in 1849, as stated in the
United States census of 1850, was 11,079, the sixteenth place
in point of population. The county tax per capita amounted
to only thirty-five and three-fifth cents, while, for the current
year the county tax amounts to 83 3G for every man, woman
and child in the county.
This population of 11,000 souls were largely Anglo-Ame-
ricans, for although the country of Illinois had been colonized
principally by French, the descendants of this old stock had by
that time gradually disappeared, and their number was actu-
ally less than French colonists of the county were estimated
to have been in 1703. The chapter on pioneers mentions a num-
ber of Europeans, principally natives of Ireland, who sought
and found homes in the county in the very first years of the
present century. Among these early arrivals we merely
mention James Patterson, and his four sons John, Samuel,
Reuben and Jaraes, Robert Huggins, John McClinton, David
and James Anderson, Adam Hill, Absalom Cox, James and
Archibald Thompson, William McBride, Robert McDonald,
Joseph and John Lively, George Wilson, Samuel Crozier,
R)b3rt Foster, John Anderson, A. M. Henderson, William
Nelson, and others. The reader has met many of these
names among the leading citizens and county officials. The
German nationality now forming a large part of the popu-
lation was scarcely represented in the territorial times of the
county. About the year 1817 we fiund two Germans as
re5i<lents of Kaskaskia, to wit : Ferdinand linger, a tailor,
and Heinrich Resinger, a cabinet maker. The actual German
immigration began about the year 1830, when Gustav Pape
arrived, soon followed by Caspar iVnton Pape, Franz
Schwarz, Anton Tilman, Adam Huth, the Wehrheims, Die-
derich Moehrs, Charles Schribner, Andreas and John
Schoeppel ; between the years 1840 and 18.50 arrived John
Selteger, -Jacob Zang, Charles Reinhart, the Rauchs, Wil-
liam Schuchert, J. G Middendorf, John Stoehr, J. H. Meyer^
Christopher Gatelman, Paul Pautler, Louis and Diederich
Liefer, J. H. iMckelman, Daniel Gerlach, (somewhat later)
J. F. Hornberger, August Begemann, Henry, William and
Fred. Ebers, J. F. Knop, D. Bickenberg, H. W^elge, William
Rurede, J. H. Thies, Fred. Draves, Julius Schrader, Henry
and Frederick Sternberg, Diederich Heitmann, Heinrich
122
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Knoche, Lnuis Meyer, Henry Schnoeker, Henry Bode,
Frederick Brinkman, Herman Decker, Henry Hartmann,
H. R. StoUe, Philip Schoen, Jacob Gillenburg, F. C. Peters
and others. The revolutionary times during the years 1848
and 1819 caused a large emigration in some of the German
States, and the arrivals became so numerous, that a recital
would fill many pages. The bulk of this German immigration
chose farming as their occupation, in which pursuit they
have met with astonishing success. Others, principally
mechanics, settled in the towns and villages, many engaged
in merchandizing, while not a few devoted themselves to
keeping of hotels and refreshment shops. A few of these
early German settlers and many of their descendants have
occupied responsible and important offices of the county.
The census of 1860 found fully one-fifth of the population of
the county of foreign birth.
We return to the recital of county affairs after the adop-
tion of the constitution of 1848.
The election of November, 1849, entrusted the affairs of
the county to the first county court, to wit :
John Campbell, county judge,
Benbow Bailey and John Braser, associate justices.
1849 TO 1853.
This court held iU first term on the 17th of December^
1849. John W. Gillis, county clerk, John A. Wilson,
sheriff. The new court-house was completed duriug their
administration. On June 20, 1850, appeared in open court
Thomas Mather, James L. Lamb, Stacy B. Opdyke, A
Andrews, Francis Swanwick, Seth Allen, Adolph Blacky
A. Perkins, Joseph B. Holmes, Joseph AVilliamson, Judson
Clement, John Swanwick, Marmaduke E. Ferris, Joseph B.
Mattingley, James R. Dunn, and Charles Song, who on the
4th of June, 1847, had entered into bond to build a suitable
court house at Chester, at the expense of the citizens of said
town, and presented to the county court said court house for
said county to use forever, as their own property in fee with-
out charge or rent, and free from all lien or incumbrance
whatsoever.
Whereupon the court accepted the tender of said court
house and considered that said bond had been fully dis-
charged, and tendered the thanks of the county to said
donors for the gift nf said court house.
The court house was furnished at the expense of the
county, and first occupied on the 2d of September, 1850.
The affairs of the county during the decade of 1850 to
1860 were conducted by this court and their successors in
an economical and satisfactory manner. The valuation of
the property increased perceptibly, and amounted in 1860
to $2,963,000. The taxes for county purposes in that year
amounted to $10,371.56, of which, however, $1052.27 re-
mained unpaid. Tax dodging had commenced, and con-
tinued until it grew to be a dangerous evil. The county
authorities resorted to a most pernicious practice, to wit,
drawing warrants on a depleted treasury, and, what was
worse, made those warrants 10 per cent, interest-bearing
paper. The example given by the Federal Government
during the war, in creating an immense debt at the very
shortest notice, proved contagious. The authorities of the
county found themselves coerced to have a special act passed
by the legislature, permitting them to issue bonds, in order
to procure the means of managing a heavy floating debt,
June 5, 1865. A bridge across Mary's river had been paid
for in such orders, amounting in the aggregate to nearly
$9,000, and yet the usual tax levy of ^5 cents per $HIO
was not increased. In J864 the court authorized H. C. Cole
to erect a fire-proof building, 22 feet by 48 feet, for clerks'
oflaces, promising him 10 per cent, on all moneys advanced
by him, and a suitable compensation for superintending the
work Bonds amounting to $17,000 were issued June, 1865,
and $10,000 more in March, 1866, to pay the purchase price
of the Gordon farm, bought fur the purpose of making it a
poor- farm, and in November, 1866, the citizens of the county
voted in favor of having $100,000 of 8 per cent, bonds
issued in aid of the construction of a railroad.
This railroad debt gave rise to much complaint, leading
to tedious and expensive litigations, which terminated in
favor of the bondholders.
Since 1874 the county has been governed by a board of
county commissioners, who have succeeded in bringing the
finances of the county into shajjc.
A statement of the financial condition of the county in
1882 is introduced here, followed by a detailed exhibit of
the taxable property of the county and its value, from which
the reader will perceive that the net debt of the county is
less than 4 per cent, of its assessed value. It is also well
understood that the real value of the taxable property of the
county is nearly four times as great as the assessed value,
and that the county indebtedness therefore does not amount
to more than 1 per cent.-of the property in the county. The
tax levy of 1882 is high, but the amount to be collected
will reduce the county debt to about $10O,U0O, the principal of
the railroad debt contracted in that evil hour of November,
1866.
The value of the public buildings, not reckoning the
court house, which is a donation, the substantial clerks'
offices, the expensive new jail, the poor farm and its im-
provements, is fully adequate to the amount of the debt,
less railroad bonds.
Preceding the assessment of 1882 we insert an extract of
the assessment of 1 62, in order to show how rapidly values
change, leaving it to the readers to draw their lines of com-
parison. Just think of it! 21 piano-fortes in 18o2, and 378
pianofortes and melodeons in 1882 ! !
FINANCIAL CONDITION OF THE COUNTY, SEPT. 1, 1882.
Bonds issued Sept. 8, 1870, due in 1885 813,000.00
Bonds issued May, 1878, due 1808 40,000.00
Judgment in Uni ed States court, including principal of Tamaroa
R. R. bond and coupons 108,000.00
Outstanding county orders 833.59
Jury warrants 07. 80
Total 8161,901.^9
ASSETS.
Balance in treasury 80,835.00
Taxes of 18S1, collected and in hands of collector 4,745.70
11,580.70
Debt, less assets 8150,320.139
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
12:5
The county authorities, at the November term, 1882, or-
dert d the following tax levies to be made, to wit :
For general onimty purposes, per SlOrt S -GO
For ro:uls, per 51lKi 15
For part pay of judgments, per $1U0 1-25
Total Si.0O
All county bonds, with the exception of $13,000, are re-
gistered with the auditor of the State, who levies a special tax
to meet the payment of interest.
ASSKSSHF.NT
7,449 horses, rained at $249,441
14,472 cattle 97,46«
bii mules 18,2«9
C,a»5 sheep C,2.",7
21,7(!9 hogs 20,79J
2 305 wagons and carriages.... 61,825
2,W2 clocks and watches 9,171
21 piano-fortes 2,:)<>4
Goods and nierchandi^ie 91,'i95
Capital stock 5,505 Total $2,866,3:17
The taxes for that year were for
state purposes 812,970.%
County purposes 10.088.06
Special school purposes 8.841.08
Total 511,899.50
The delinquent taxes of 1861 and prior years amounted
then to $3,857.57.
TAX VALUES OF RANDOLPH COUXTY 1882.
18C2.
M.inufactnred articles. 7,023
Moneys and credit" 119,8:12
.\ll otlier personal property... 122,707
Total 5812,5)17
Lands (83,000 acres in culti-
vation) 1,010 370
Lots 43-,H80
PERSOVU. PKOPEBTY
Valufd (it
i ,218 horses $25.32".^ each $137,474
8,.'>37 cattle
2,123 mules Xi-UX
7,810 sheep 1.021
I.5,:i32 ho;ss 91
67 steam-engines.. 217.G4
55 fire-proof safes™ 36.90
21 billiards 31.66?^
3,790 car. & wagons 12..55J4
4,235 watc. i clocks 2.27
2,319 seir. machines 5.90
145 pianofortes S0..*i3
231melodeons. 18.27
3 franchises 91.CCJJ
2 annui. * royalties .307.00
9 steamb. & vessels 22G.(H;%
Merchandise on hand
61,404
7(1,.%tO
8,017
13,935
14,382
2,029
005
47,588
9,024
14,007
7,327
4,257
275
734
Material & manufact articles
Manufacturers' tool8,etc
Agricultural tools
Gold aud silver plate
Diamonds and jewelry
Moneys of banks.
Credits of banks
Moneys of other than banks
Credits of other than banks
Bonds and stocks
Shares of capital stock, etc...
Property of saloons
Household furniture
Investments in real estate ...
All otner personal property..
831,307
7,214
6G,()9G
.51,038
250,.58o
15,402
60
3,193
94,030
3,630
31,496
Total personal property.. 81,119,105
LANDS ASD vm.
188,973 acres, improved, »t 89.83 4-5 $1,8.59,251
103,413 acres, unimproved, at $3.09 504,772
6,750 lots 646,547
BAILROAK PROPERTT.
Wabash, Chester and Western 862,703
Alton and Terre Haute 44,213
Cairo and St. Louis 74,057
Total 84,310,708
These tax valuations appear to represent not more than
one-fourth of the fair cash value, and it is safe to state that
the property enumerated above is worth fully sixteen mil-
lions of dollars.
The agricultural statistics of Randolph county set forth
that in 1881
I produced 130,054 bushels of <
803,008
2,148
172,900
" 293
" 2,282
" 37,837
1,852
of orchard produced 38,900
" ■• 193
•• " _ 40
wheat,
spring wheat.
rye.
barley.
Irish potatoes.
sweet potatoes.
apples.
peaches.
pears.
2«acr
es of vineyards prod'd
782 gallons of wine.
5.181 ■
of meadow "
4,649 tons of timothy hay
3,922 '
of clover "
. 3,318 tons of clover hay.
12,117 '
were pastured.
G.5,719 '
are woodland.
9,019 '
are uncultivated, and
9M ■
are laid out in city and town lots.
357 horse?, valued at 817,819, died during the vear, and
430 colts were foaled. Fat cattle, weighing 1,295,516 pounds,
were sold, and 214, representing a value of -53,594, died of
disease. 3,985 cows furnished the people of Randolph with
milk, etc. ; and the report further states that 80,079 pounds
of butter, 5,221 of cheese and 085 gallons of milk were sold
during the year. 470 sheep, worth *1,4G0, were killed by
dogs, and 554, worth 81,826, died of disease. (It is remark-
able that this class of sheep is so valuable. The average
value given in by the assessor is 81.02 3-5, while the sheep
killed by dogs are valued at three times the amount.) The
wool clipped it reported to have weighed 47,928 pounds and
valued at 8 10,54.3 — about 82,000 more than the sheep were
assessed at; besides there were 3,912 sheep, weighing
361,525 pounds, sold, bringing about 815.001) more. 2,949
fat hogs, weighing 535 990 pounds, were sold ; 2,149, weigh-
ing 157,463 pounds, died of hog cholera, and 501, weighing
34,271 pounds, died of other diseases. 547 hives of bees
produced 1,506 pounds of honey. 900 feet of drain tile was
laid in 1881.
EX>r.\ruTC0E5 or rivdoli'ii coistv in 1SS2.
Assessment, cost of $1,909.25
County jail and ^-risoners 2,441.05
Courts and bailitTs 3,073.*!
County officers 0,15K.30
Court house— fuel, ice. insurance 421.51
Court offices, printing and stationery 1,313.25
Elections 848.00
Paupers— in poor house 84,149.47
outside of 2,748.77
" in State institutions 541.03
" inquests 131jn
•' new building 4,',i.54,0O S12,.'i25.23
nd bridges 7,021 79
Roads
Sundries .
316.98
Total 830,709.36
Deducting the cost of the new building on the poorf:um, to wil, 81,95 1.0:"i from
*he above amount, it would appear that the regular county e.xpenditure8
amounted to $31,755.30
To which add interest on 8n,000 bonds I,3ii0.0<)
jntcrest on $40,000 bonds at 7 per cent 2,800.03
Interest on 100,000 R. R. bonds at 8 per cent 8,000.00
SH.&53.30
"We failed to obtain the United States Census Re-
ports of 1880 before concluding this chapter, in order
to add statistics of public interest and permanent value.
These reports are however, not ready, and may not be com-
pleted for some time From the lists filed by the enumerators
in the clerk's office, we glean the following in reference to
the population of the various precincts of the county :
1. Baldwin— TovB, 271; ouLside, 1280: total 15.57
2. Bremen.— Toul 'M
3-4. Blair and Central— Tota\ I0.5O
5. BrcwtrviUe.—Tot&\ 546
6. Chester —Town, 2525 ; rural, 1995 ; total 4520
7-8. CouUervilU and 7\Uen.— Total 2004
9. JEiiinfi>i«e.— Total "01
10. Florenee.—Tota\ 701
11. A'a.toM*ia.— Total population 1150
12. Prairie du Roeher— Total 111«
13. Red Bu</.— Total 2595
124
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
U. Jfociiocorf.— Town, 231 ; rural, 989 ; total 1211
15. Buma.— Total 8*3
16. tparta—rovn of 17f6 ; Eden, 201 ; rural, 1421 ; total 3408
17. StoteMi»».— Town of Steelesville, 440; rural, 1059 1499
18. W'iim iffc'i.— Total 881
Total of county 26,479
In a preadiug part of this chaiter we have iutro-
duced the names of citizens of Randolph county, who repre-
senttd it in the territorial legislatures. A similar statement
in reference to the representatives of the county in the con-
stitutional conveutiocs, the various general assemblies, State
offices and United States congresses is here appended.
Randolph county as represented in the conMutional con-
ventions of Illinois. 1818, George Fisher and Elias Kent
Kane ; 1847, Ezekiel W. Robbing and R. B. Servant ; 1862,
Daniel Reily ; 1870, J. H. Wilson and G. W. Wall.
Randolph county was represented in the General
Assembly of the State as follows :
1818 to 1820— John McFerron, Senator; Edward
Humphreys, Samuel Walker, Representatives.
1820 to 1822— Samuel Crozier, Senator; Thomas Mather,
Raphael Widen, Representatives.
1822 to 1824.— Samuel Crozier, Senator ; Thomas Mather,
Raphael Widen, John Mc/Ferron, Representatives.
1824 to 18i6— Raphael Widen, Senator ; Elias K. Kane,
resigned in 1825, Gabriel Jones, elected to fill vacancy
Thomas Mather, Speaker of the House, resigned 1825^
Samuel Smith, elected to fill vacancy, Representatives.
1826 to 1828— Raphael Widen, Senator; John Lacy.
Thomas Reynolds, Representatives.
1828 to 1830. Samuel Crawford, Senator for Randolph
and Perry; Thomas Mather, Hypolite Menard, Repre-
sentatives.
1830 to 1832— Samuel Ciawford, Senator for Randolph
and Perry; John Atkins, Thomas J. V. Owen, Repre-
sentatives for Randolph and Perry.
1832 to 1834— Thomas Mather, Senator for Randolph and
Perry ; David Baldridge. Richard G. Murphy, Representa-
tives for Randolph and Perry.
1834 to 1836— Thomas Mather, resigned in 1825 and was
succeeded by Richard B. Servant, Senator as above ; Rich-
ard G. Murphy, John Thompson, Representatives.
1836 to 1838- Richard B. Servant, Senator, Randolph
alone ; James Shields, Saml. G. Thompson, Representatives.
1838 to 1840— Richard B. Servant, Senator ; Gabriel
Jones, Edward Menard, Representatives.
1840 to 1842 — Jacob Feaman, Senator; James Mc-
Clurken, John P. McGiinis, Representatives.
1842 to 1844 — Jacob Feaman, Senator; Jacob J. Danner^
Andrew J. Dickinson, William McBride, Representatives
for Randolph and Monroe.
1844 to 1846 — Joseph Morrison, Senator ; E. Adaras, E.
W. Robbins, John D. Whiteside, Representatives for Ran-
dolph and Monroe.
1846 to 1848— Joseph Morrison, Senator; Robert Mann,
John Morrison, Edward Omelveny, Representatives.
1848 to 1850— Hawkins S. Osburn, of Perry, Senator
Fourth District ; Samuel H. Guthrie, Representative.
1850 to 1852— H. S. Osburn, Senator, John E. Deitrich,
Representative.
1852 to 1854— John E. Deitrich, Senator, Joseph
Williamson, Representative.
1854 to 1856— John E. Deitrich, Senator, Twenty-fourth
District — Randolph, Washington, Clinton, Perry and
Jackson counties ; James C. Holbrook, Representative, Sixth
District, composed of Randolph county.
185G to 1858— E. C. Coffey, of Washington, Senator
Twenty-fourth Distiict; James H. Watt, Representative
Sixth District.
18o8 to i860— E. C Coffey, Senator as above ; John E.
Deitrich, Representative as above.
1860 to 1862— James M. Rodgers, of Clinton, Senator as
above ; Edmund Faherty, Representative.
1862 to 1864 — Israel Blanchard, of Jackson, Senator of
Third District, composed of Randolph, Williamson,
Franklin, JacksoB, Jefferson and Monroe; Stephen W.
]Miles, of Monroe, Edward Menard, Representatives Eighth
District, composed of Randolph, Perry and Monroe.
1864 to 1866— Daniel Reily, of Kaskaskia, Senator Third
District ; W. K. Murphy, of Perry, Austin James, of
Monroe, Representatives Eighth District.
1866 to 1868— Daniel Reily, Senator as above ; W. K.
Murphy, John Campbell, Representatives as above.
1868 to 1870 — Samuel K. Casey, of Jefferson, Senator as
above; John M. McCutcheon, Thomas H. Burgess, Repre-
sentatives.
1870 to 1872— Samuel K Casey, died during term, and
was succeeded by W. B. Anderson, of Jtfferson, James M.
Washburn, Senators Third District; James M. Ralls,
Daniel R. McMasters, Representatives.
1872 to 1874— W. K. Murphy, Senator, Forty-eighth
District ; John W. Pratt, William Neville, Austin James,
Representatives Forty-eighth District.
1874 to 1876— W. K. Murphy, Senator; Joseph- W.
Rickert, Samuel McKee, Jonathan Chestnutwood, Repre-
sentatives.
1876 to 1878 — Ambrose Keener, Senatoir; TheophilusT.
Fountain, John Boyd, Septimus P. Mace, Representatives.
1878 to 1880— Ambrose Hoener, Senator ; John T. Mc-
Bride, John R. McFie, Philip C. C. Provart, Representa-
tives.
1880 to 1882 — Lewis Ihorn, Senator; Isaac M. Kelly,
W K. Murphy, Austin James, Representatives.
1882 to 1881 — Lewis Ihorn, Senator; John R. McFie,
James T. Cannitf, John Higgius, Representatives.
RANDOLPH COUNTY AS REPRESENTED IN STATE OFFICES.
Shadrach Bond, first Governor of the state of Illinois, in-
augurated Oct. 6, 1818.
* Shadrach Bond is claimed as a citizen by Randolph county, Monroe county
and St. Clair county, and,seems to have been .1 resident of the latter at the time
of his election. Shadrach Bond, a nephew of Shadrach Bond, sen,, who is men-
tioned more conspicuously in our chapter on Pioneers, was a native of Maryland
and arrived in Kaskaskia about the year 1794. Prior 10 his election as governor he
h.id represented his district in the territorial legislature and the territory as a
delegate to congress. He was at the e.xpirali'on of his term of ofBce appointed
Register of the Land office at Kaskaskia, and continued in that position
many years. He died in 1830, Ihe lamented and favorite statesman of Illinois
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
l-2o
Pierre Menard, Lieutenant Governor from 1818 to 1822.
Elias Kent Kane,* Secretary of State, from October 6th,
1818 to December 10th, 1822, when he resigued.
James Shields,t Auditor of Public accounts, March 4lh,
1841 to 1843.
Thomas H. Campbell was auditor of public accounts from
March 2Gth, 1>46, to Jatuary 12th, 1857.
Daniel P. Cook, the famous jurisprudent of Kandolph
county, Illinois, occupied the office of Altornfy General
ju&t long enough to write out his resignation. He qualified
on the 5. of March. 1819, and then resigned on the same day.
Wm. Ale.\auder was Adjutant General from April 24,
1819, to June 11, 1821.
RANDOLPH COUNTY IN THE CONSTITUTIONAL CONVENTIONS
OF ILLINOIS.
1818. George Fisher and Elias Kent Kane.
1848. Ezekiel W. Robbins and Richard B. Servant.
1862. Daniel Reily.
1870. J. H. Wilson and George W. Wall for the Eighth
dbtrict, composed of the counties of Monroe, Randolph and
Perry.
RANDOLPH COU.NTY IN THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED
STATES SENATE.
INinian Edwards, from 1818 to 1819, and from 1819 to
1824, ivhen he resigned.
§ Jesse B. Thomas, from 1818 to 182'J, two couseculive
terms.
His remains wore removed from the old liomej^tead to Everproen cemetery in
Chester t.y B. N. Bond only surviving son of ilic governor m November 1870.
The state of Illinois is now ereeting a monument over the tomb of her 6rst
governor.
B. N. Bond, .M. P., is now a resident of Staubery, Gentry county, Jlissouri.
* E. K. K.ine had commenced the practice of law in Kaskaskianbout the ye.ar
1814. A man of brilliant talents lie rose toa position among tlie memliers of the
bar. As member of the first .tate convention of Illinois he is nienti<ined "ith
commendation :isa leading spirit and as largely stamping the constitution with
its many exeellenei. s. He was a memtier of the t ouse of reprcentalives of the
4th general a.ssembly of ll.inois, 1SJ4 to IKC. He resigned this posit on, as this
very assembly elected him to the senate of the United .States, .lanuary 182.5.
He was Te-e.ectt d in 1631, but died before expiration of his second term, Dec.
12th, ISIo, yet in the prime of life.
t James Shields, an Irisliman by birth, commenced his career by teacliing
school at Kaskaskia, afterwards studying law. He represented Randolph
county in the legislature, was judge of the circuit court, and served with di.
stinction during the Mexican war as brigadier general of tlie Illinois volun,
teers. After his return from the field, his grateful fellow citiz ns elected him
to the United States senate from 1849tolSoJ, as successor of Sidney Breese. The
senator subsequently emigrated to Minnesota, and represented this new state
also in the U. S. senate, as also the state of Missouri for a fractional term. Gen,
Shields died a few years ago in retirement.
I Ninian Edwards was born in Montgom cry county, Maryland, in 1775, studied
lawat Carlisle, Pa,, but before finishing his studies he removed to Kentucky
where he spent a few years in various e.xcesses and extravagances. Sub!
Bequently he broke from his dissulute companions, and took up his studies with
renewed zeal and energy, and rose to a most distinguished position as juris-
prudent, and was occupying the office of chief justice tf the t'ourt of .\ppeals
of Kentucky, when April 24, 18(,9, President Madison appointed him Governor
of the newly organized territory of Illinois, as per act of Congress, approved
February .1, 18()9. Ninian Edwai ds remained Governor of Illinois until the State
organization took effect October l'., 1818. He was a resident of I\.-\skaskia at the
time of his election to the Senate, but soon after took up his residence at
Edwardsviile in Madison county, thus ceasing to be a citizen of liandolph.
gjesse B. Thomas, when Speaker of the House of Representatives of the
territory of Indiana, of which Illinois then formed a part, entered into an agree-
ment with the leading men of the Illinois part to use his inflitence in bringing
about a separate territorial organization of Illinois on the conditions that he
should first be elected delegate to Congress. The Illinois members, with a due
appreciatioti of the promises of politicians, even at that early day, required of
Thomas, before they would vote for him, to support his pledges by his bond,
conditioned that he would procure from Congress a division, whereupon he
Elias Kent Kane, from 1825 to 1835, December 12, the
date of his death.
David J. Baker, from November 12, 1830, to December
11, 1830, appointed by Governor Edsvards to succeed Judge
John McLean, deceased.
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES.
Daniel P. Cook of Kaskaskia was the first Representative
of Congress from the State, taking his seat at the second ses-
sion of *^ loth Congress. He contiuued to represent the
State during the 16th, 17th, IStli and 19th Congresses, a
period of nearly nine years, being from December 1818 until
March 1827. Xo other from Randolph county has graced
the hall of Representatives as a member since the day when
D. P. Cook retired from his seat.
Addenda. — County Officers of Randolph County,
1779 to 1883.
A(lministratii-e Officrrs. — Colonel John Todd, county lieu-
tenant, from 1779 to 1782. Timothy De Moutbrun, county
lieutenant, from 1782 to 1784. John Edgar and J. B.
Barbeau, judges, from 1790 to 1795.
John Edgar, William Morrison, Pierre Menard, Robert
McMahan, George Fisher, Jvhn Beaird, Robert Reynolds,
Nathaniel Hull, Antoine Louvier, John Grosvenor, James
Finney, and Samuel Cochran, United States justices and
members of Court of Common Pleas, from 179.') to 1803.
Paul Harralsoii, Robert Morrison, James Gilbreath, Pierre
Menard, Creorge Fisher, and James Finney, county commis-
sioners, from 1803 to 1809.
Philip Fouke, William Arui.del, Henry Levens, Pierre
Le Conipte, Paul Harralsoii, David Anderson, Jean B. Bar-
beau, Robert Gaston, Archibald Thom|isoii, John Guiihing,
John Edgar, James McRoberts, John McFtrroii, John
Bradshaw, Samuel Omelveiiy, George Robinson, (ieorge
Hacker, James Lemon, Thomas Ferguson, Haniltt Ferguson^
John Phelps, and Marvin Fuller, justices, members of
county court, from 1809 to 1819.
Curtis Conn, David Anderson, James Patterson, James
Thompson, Miles Hotchkiss, Gabriel Jones, Francois Menard,
John Miller, Arthur Parks, Josiah Betts, Franklin P.
Owen, John C. Crozier, R. H. Fleming, Pierre De Rousse,
James S. Guthrie, Thomas Roberts, Felix St. Yiain, William
G. Hizer, John Thompson, John G. Nelson, James Gillespie,
James S Guthrie yM term), Robert Clark, James O'Harra,
Gabriel Jones (2d term), W. G Hizer ( 2d term i, Samuel
Douglas, Harvey Clendenin, Lawson Murphy, lleiiry O'-
Harra, John Mann, Archibald Thompson, Edward Camp-
bell, William McBriiie, James Gillei-pie (2d term\ county
commissioners, from 1819 to 1849.
John Campbell, W. P. Haskins (died during his term>
R. B. Servant, John Campbell (2d term ), J. W. Ralls, Har-
vey Neville, Alexander Hood, judges of the county court,
and John Braser, Benbow Bailey, James Gillespie, Samuel
w.as "triumphantly" elected by a bare majority with the aid of his uwn vote !
He was hung in efBgy at Vincciines by the :inli.sepiinitioni-l-. but ho dis-
charged his pledges and his bond by procuring the ilivision from fungress,
and as it w.is doubtless desirable to elmngc his residence he eanie home w ith a
commission for a federal judgeship of the new territory in liis pocket, and re-
moved to Kaskaskia, Illinois. (History of Illinois by Davidson and Struve).
126
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE, AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
B. Adams, James Gillespie (2d term), William Mudd,
Armistead Jones, William Mudd (2d term), M. Ireland,
Philip Wehrheim, John Wilson, and Philip Wehrheira (2d
term), associate justices of the county, from 1849 to 1874.
Johu Morrison, John Wilson, Philip Wehrheim, P.
Faherty, J. R. Doucliis, M. Ireland, J. B. Frank, James J.
Borders, and John C. Johnson, board of county commis-
sioners, from 1874 to 1883.
County Clerks.— Carboneau, from 1779 to ? ?
Robert Morrison, from 1795 to 1803. Paul Harrolson and
William Wilson, from 1803 to 1809. W. C. Greenup, from
1809 to 1827. Miles Hotchkiss, from 1827 to 1832, resigned
in June. James Hughes, appointed in 1832, and elected in
1833. Andrew J. Dickinson, 1837, resigned in 1839. Robert
Mann, appointed clerk pro tern., served 3 months. Ferdinand
Maxwell, elected in 1839 and reelected in 1841. J. W.
Gillis, from 1845 to 1851. J. M. Cole, from 1851 to 1857.
J. H. Nelson, from 1857 to 1864. John A. Campbell, ap-
pointed pro tern., 1864. Joseph Scbuessler, elected 1864 to
1865. R. J. Harmer, from 1865 to 1809. J. R. Shannon,
from 1869 to 1873. John T. McBride, from 1873 to 1877.
R. J. Harmer, from 1877 to 1882. Louis Dudenbostel, 1882.
5/,,,,./^; —Richard Winston, from 1779 to 1782. Timothy
du Montbrun, from 1782 to 179i). William Biggs (St. Clair
county), from 1790 to 1795. James Dunn, from 1795 to
1800. George Fisher, from 1800 to 1803. James Edgar,
from 1803 to 1805. James Gilbreath, from 1805 to 1 809-
Beijarain Stephenson, from 1809 to 1814. Henry Connor,
Samuel C. Christy, T. J. V. Owens, Ignatius Sprigg, John
Campbell, John A. WiLson, elected in 1848. John P.
Thompson, 18.50. Sav. St. Vrain, 18-52. John Campbell,
1854. Sav. St. Vrain (2d term', 1856. Anthony Steele,
1858. M. S. McCormack, 1860. John Campbell, 1862.
John T. McBride, 18G4. J. R. Shannon, 1866. M. S.
McCormack, 1868. J. T. McBride, 1870. Beverly Wilt-
shire, 1872 and 1874. Daniel Gerlach, 1876 and 1878.
Gerlach, 1«80, and E. J. Murphy, 1882.
Treasurers and Assessors.— The county sheriffs were treas-
urers until 1809. The duties of assessors from 1795 to 1808
were performed by the township constables and special
appointees. David Anderson was the first county assessor,
1808 and 1809. Treasurers and ex-officio assessors: Wil-
liam Alexander, 1812 ; William Barnett, K. Barton, John
McFerron, Alexander Barber, Samuel G. Thompson, Har-
vey Clendenin, Francis S. Jones, Hypolite Menard, S St.
Vrain, H. H. Barker, Matthew Huth, H. B. Nisbett, J. T.
McBride, J. M. Thompson, George Wilson, Peter Wickline,
F. S. Peters, Edmund St. Vrain, William Swanwick, S. B.
Hood, appointed in 1881, and William A. Campbell since
1882.
(-'oro»er«.— William Kelly, 1795 to 1803; Miles Hotch-
kiss, Henry Derousse, R. K. Fleming, D. L. Lybarger, F.
C. Peters, F. D. Lewis, F. C. Peters, 2d terra ; H. B. De-
rousse, J. H. Altrogy, J. M. Smith, D. L. Lybarger (2d
term) ; G.V. Renter, T. J. Garrett, William Heining. (This
list is incomplete, as there were no records kept of ofRcers
elected prior to 1849.)
Surveyors.— ^\\\\Am Wilson, Thomas Patterson, Paul
Harralson, James Thompson, Samuel G. Thompson, Ferdi-
nand Humphreys, Ezekiel W. Bobbins, James B. Parks,
S. G. Thompson, Joseph Noel, R. B. Thompson, James M-
Thompson, M. S. McAttee, J. P. Thompson, J. T. Douglas
and H. W. Schmidt.
Judges of Co!(r<«.— Gabriel Cerre, Joseph Duplassey
Jacques Lesource, Nicolas Jarvis, J. B. Barbeau, Nicolas
Le Chance, Charles Charleville, and Antoine Duchafours de
Louvieres, 1779 to 1790. La Buisniere was State attorney
at this period. John Edgar and J. B. Barbeau, 1790 to
1795, by appointment of Governor Arthur St. Clair; Hon.
John Cleves Synimes, 1795 to 1809 ; Hons. Jesse B. Thomas,
Obadiah Jones, Alexander Stuart, Stanley (iriswold, Wil-
liam Sprigg, Thomas Towles, Daniel P. Cook, John War-
nock, members of the' General Court of the territory of
Illinois, 1809 to 1819; B. H. Doyle, prosecuting attorney;
Hong. Joseph Phillips, Richard M. Young, Thomas Reyn-
olds, John Reynolds, Theophilus W. Smith, Samuel M.
Roberts, Samuel D. Lockwood and Thomas C. Brown mem-
bers of the Supreme Court and presiding judges at circuit
courts throughout t' e State, 1819 to 18.35; William Mears,
Charles Mattheny and Sidney Breese prosecuting attorneys.
Hons. Thomas Ford, Sidney Breese, James Semple, James
Shields, Gustav Koerner, W. H. Underwood, Sidney Breese,
2d term, H. K. S. Omelveny, Silas L. Bryan, Amos Watts,
W. H. Snyder and G. W. Wall circuit judges, 1835 to 1883-
Prosecuting attorneys during said period, W. H. Under-
wood, W. H. Bissell, P B. Foulke, George Abbott, W. C.
Kinney, W. H. Snyder, Amos Watts, J. P. Johnston, John
IMichan, Reuben J. Goddard (first county attorney, 1872 to
1880) and D. E. Detrich, present county attorney.
Clerics of Circuit ((iiirt..< and exofficio Recorders. —
Carboneau, 1779 to 1795; Lardner Clark, 1795 to
1809; William Arundel, 1809 to 1815; William C.Greenup,
1815; James Hughe-s, 1831 ; William Guthrie, 1840; James
Quinn, 1845 ; John M. Langlois, 1845 ; Charles D. Kane,
184/; James M. Ralls, 18.50; Savinie,n St. Vrain, 1860;
G. H. Pate, 1876 to date.
Probate Judgc-^.-Carlh Conn, 1821 to 1827; David J.
Baker, 1827 to 1831 ; Dwight Hunt, from March 7 to May
16, 1831 ; James Thompson, 1831 to 1848; John Campbell,
from 1848 to 1853; W. P. Haskins, 18,53 to 1853; died
during his term of office, and was succeeded by R. B. Ser-
vant, 18.55 to 1857 ; John Campbell, 2d term, 1857 to 1861 ;
J. W. Ralls, 1861 to 1865; Harvey Neville, 1865 to 1869;
Alexander Hood, 1869 to 1873; John H. Lindsey, 1873 to
1877; W. P. Murphy, 1877 to 1882; and G. L. Riess,
present incumbent.
School CommUnoners or Superintendents.— Sa.mue\ G.
Thompson, 183o ; W. McBride, 1839; S. G. Thompson, re-
appointed, 1840; M. A. Gilbert, 1843; Thomas Roberts,
1844; Elisha Seymour, 1845 ; James W. Glenn, 1849; J. B.
Parks, 1851 ; Robert Mann, 1854 ; Eli Lofton, 1857 ; Mar-
quis S. Burns, 18G1 ; John A. Malone, 1865 ; R. P. Thomp-
son, 1869 ; Peter N. Holm, 1870 ; R. M. Spurgeon and B. B.
Hood, present incumbents.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOMROE AND PERRY COUXTIES, ILLINOIS.
127
In conclusion we introduce here a
ROSTER OF OFFICERS OF RANDOLPH COUNTY, DECEMBER, 1882.
George L. Riess, county judge, elected in 1882 ; Louis
Dudeubostel, county clerk, elected in 1882 ; Everett J.
Murphy, sheriff, elected in 1882 ; John C. Johnson, county
commissioner, elected in 1882; James J. Borders, county
commissioner, elected in 1881 ; J. B. Frank, county com-
missioner, elected in 1880 ; William A. Campbell, treasurer,
elected in 1882; William Heiuiug, coroner, elected in 1882;
Samuel B. Hood, superintendent of schools, elected in 1882 ;
Henry W. Schmidt, surveyor, elected in 1879 ; D. E.
Deitrich, slate's attorney, elected in 1880; G. H. Pate_
circuit clerk, elected in 1880.
PRECINCT OFFICERS.
Baldwin. — W. M. Wilson and James A. Bean, justices .
J. AV. Pickett and John P. Cox, constables.
Bremen. — John H. Wilson and Henry Heitman, justices
of the peace; Henry Detmore and Jacob Wiukelmaun,
constables.
Blair. — S. B. Boggs and James Harkley, justices of the
peace ; and F. M. Welshans and T. W.-Taggert, constables.
Breurrvillc. — F. A. Jlarliu and W. P. Boyle, justices ;
Albert Snook and Leo Bone, constables.
Chr.'<f(r.—C W. Dean, H. Perkins, W. L. Wilson and
Leonard Crisler, justices; John W. Ragdale, Bartley
Tovera, George R. Douglas and Louis Harmon, constables.
Central. — John M. Beattie, justice of the peace; Stephan
Wright and R. J. Holcomb, constables.
Cindtrrrille. — David Muniord and Anthony Steele, justi-
ces ; Jesse McBride and Ruius East, constables.
Evan.ivilte. — James S. Gray and John H. Thompson,
justices; John Hagerdown and Paulus Smith, constables.
Florence. — B. P. Harmon and H. D. Lilly, justices ; Ed.
Beare and Walter W. Nifang, constables.
A'(.<A((.<A(a. — Wm. R. Burch and C. W. Wheeler, justices;
W. H. Doza and E. A. Lucken, constables.
IVairie du Rocher. — J. R. Duclas and Edward Harmi-
nutz, justices; Mike Dapron and Francis M. Oliver,
constables.
Red Bud — F. D. Gucker and John H. Meyer, justices;
William Heining and Peter Ensenauer, constables.
Rockwood. — James F. Bildtrback and W. G. Harry,
justices; James G. Simpson and James G. Sympson,
constables.
Ruiiut — Henry F. Kucker and .John B. Frank, justices ;
George W. Baker and Fritz Hopka, constables.
Sparta — -W. G Kitchen, James L. Skelley, A. N. Sprague
and T. F. Alexander, justices ; Peter W. Pillars, Thomas
C. Blair, J. S. Carter and O. R. Bannister, constables.
Steele's Milk. — T. A. Lickip and D. H. Schaefl'er, justices;
A. Short, constable.
Ti/den_ — William Fulton and A. M. Chassels, justices;
William Stephenson and John HoUiday, constables.
Wine Hill. — Henry Ebbers and N. H. Eickelmann,
justices of the peace; and Conrad Walters and Hermann
Sasse, constables.
CONCLUSION.
Randolph county has prospered from the day the Ameri-
can patriot Patrick Henry first stretched out his arm from
the old dominion to aid the colonists in forming a people's
government in the far west. Fifteen millions of dollars
would not sutHce to purchase the properly owned by the five
thousand families now residing in the county. A hundred
years is but a brief period in the life of nations, and yet how
wonderful have been the changes wrought in that time. An
Indian trail here and there, short neighborhood roads from
Kaskaskia to Prairie du Rocher, and Fort Chartres and
thence to Cahokia, were the means of communication be-
tween the sparse and scattering settlements of a hundred
years ago. How great was the joy of those people when in
1810 the first stage-coach came rattling through the streets
of quaint old Kaskaskia ! The daj-s of the stage-coach have
passed by and the cheery sound of the coachman's bugle
does not longer awake and call forth the echoes on the
bluffs, the bugle and the bugler are forgotten.
The county is dotted with prosperous and growing towns
and villages, the rich fields yield immense quantities of
golden wheat and corn, stately school-houses adorn the villages
and numerous church spires seem to indicate that the thoughts
of these people are not altogether bent on things that perish.
Railroads traverse the county in various directions, facili-
tating travel and commerce. Telegraphic lines connect
cities and towns with all parts of the >yorld, and electric
lights turn darkness into day.
Such is Randolph county now. Predictions as to what
another century may make of her, are idle. There isalimit to
all things. The Titans were powerful, they were strong
enough to pile mountains on mountains, but they could never
reach the sacred heights where Jupiter is throutd.
MONROE COUNTY.
CIVIL HISTORY — 1816 TO 1882— OI!G ANIZATION OF THE
COUNTY.
The territory composing the present county of Monroe
had formed a part of the old county of Illinois from 1778 to
1790, when it became incorporated in the county of St.
Clair. The organization of Randolph county in 179.5 and
reorganization of the two counties mentioned above, April
28, 1>09, divided the present county by a line running due
east and west from the famous settlement "New Design."
The organization of the county was decreed by a formal
act of the Legislature of the Territory of Illinois, approved
the 6th day of January, ISIG, and to be in force I'rom and
after the 1st day of June, 1.S16.
This latter clause gave to Monroe the tenth place in the
chronological order of counties, to wit., St. Clair, Randolph,
Gallatin, Johnson, Madison, Edwards, White, Jackson, Pope
and Monroe.
The law creating this county reads as follows:
^l(i Aet for forming a new county by the Legislative
Council and House of Representatives of the Illinois Terri-
tory, and it is hereby enacted by the authority of the same:
That all that part of the county within the following bounds.
128
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
viz: Beginning on the Mississippi river where the base line,
which is about three-fourths of a mile below Judge Biggs'
present residence, strikes the said river, thence with the base
line until it strikes the first township line therefrom ; thence
to the southeast corner of township two south, range nine
west; thence south to the southeast corner of township four
south, range nine west ; thence southwestwardly to the Mis-
sissippi, so as to include Alexander McNabb's farm ; and
thence up the Mississippi to the beginning, shall constitute a
separate county, to be called Monroe.
Be it further enacted, That William Alexander, James
Lemon, sen., James B. Moore, John Prim and James Mc-
Roberts be, and they are hereby appointed commissioners to
fix upon the proper place for the seat of justice for said
county of Monroe, who shall meet for that purpose on the
third Monday of July next, at the town of Harrison, — and
they, or a majority of them, when so assembled together,
shall take an oath to fix the said seat of justice at such place
as they shall think best calculated to promote the conve-
nience and interest of said county, without favor or afiection
to any individual or individuals; provided, the owner or
owners of the land will give to the county for the purpose of
erecting public buildings, a parcel of land at the said place,
not less than twenty acres, and laid off into lots and sold for
the above purpose; but, should said owner or owners refuse
to make said donation aforesaid, then and in that case it
shall be the duty of the commissioners to fix upon some
other place for the seat of justice as convenient as may be to
the different settlements in said county, and, when fixed
upon by said commissioners, (hey shall certify under their
hands and seals, and return the same to the next county
court in the county, which said court shall cause an entry
thereof to be made on their records of said county. Pro-
vided, however, that if the said commissioners, or a majority
of them, shall not be able to meet on the said third Monday
in July next, they shall meet as soon thereafter as it may
be convenient, and either at the first or any subsequent
meeting they may continue from day to day, so long as they
may think it necessary to form a correct decision, and said
commissioners shall be entitled to two dollars each per day
that they are necessarily employed in fixing the county seat,
to be paid out of their county levy ; and provided, also, that
the town of Harrison shall be the seat of justice for said
county, until some other place shall be chosen as afore.«aid
and public buildings be erected thereon.
Be it further enacted, That the said county of Monroe
shall be, and hereby is allowed one representative in the
House of Representatives of this territory, who shall be
elected in the same manner that representatives are now
authorized by law to be elected in other counties, and he
shall be authorized to exercise all the powers, possess all the
privileges, and be entitled to all the emoluments that any
other Representative can exercise, possess or receive accord-
ing to law.
Be it further enacted. That whereas the said county of
Monroe was taken off of two districts for the election of
Members of Council, all qualified voters who shall reside
within those bounds which previous to the passage thereof
was a part of St. Clair county shall have a right to vote for
a member of the Legislative Council to represent them and
the qualified voters of St. Clair county as one district ; and
all those qualified voters who shall resMe within those
bounds, which previous to the passage hereof, was a part of
Randolph county, shall have a right to vote for a member
of the Legislative Council to represent them and the quali-
fied voters of Randolph county as one district, and it shall
be the duty of the sheriflfs of the counties of Monroe and
St. Clair within eight days after the election to attend at
Bellville and compare the polls and make out and deliver
to the person duly elected for that district their joint certifi-
cate thereof. And it shall be the duty of the said sheriffs of
Randolph and Monroe to attend at Kaskaskia, within ten
days after the election to compare the polls and make out
and deliver to the person duly elected for that district their
joint certificate thereof, provided however that any part of
the said duty may be performed by a legally authorized
deputy sheriff, the principal sheriff being responsible for the
faithful discharge thereof, and if the said sheriff or any of
them shall refuse or fail to perform the duties hereby re-
quired, such delinquent or delinquents, shall severally forfeit
and pay the sum of two hundred dollars to be recovered by
action of debt or indictment, one-half to the use of the terri-
tory and the other half to the person suing or prosecuting
for the same.
Be it further enacted, that the qualified voters of said
county of Monroe shall be entitled in all respects to the
same rights and privileges in the election of a delegate to
Congress, that are allowed by law to the qualified voters of
any other county ; and all elections hereby authorized shall
be held at the seat of justice for the said county of Monroe,
and shall in all respects be held and conducted as elections
are authorized and required to be held and conducted in
other counties. This law to commence and be in force from
and alter the first day of June next.
RiSDON Moore,
Speaker of the House of Representatives.
Pierre Menard, President of the Council.
Approved January 6, 1816. Ninian Edwards.
A plot of the county drawn by Michael Jones, Register,
and dated 1816, is on file in the county clerk's office at
Waterloo. According to this plot the original county of
Monroe contained the southwest half of township 1 South,
Range 10 west, the fractional townships 1 South, Range 11,
and li-ll, township 2 South, range 10, the southwest half of
township 2 South, range 9 west, townships 3-9 and 3-10,
and fractional township 3-11 with Harrisonville as " seat of
justice," then townships 4-9 and 4-10, and also fractional
township 4-11. This area contained in the aggregate 21G,-
640 acres, or about 338i square miles.
The organization of Monroe county is one of the acts of
the second territorial legislature, composed of Pierre Menard,
of Randolph, Samuel Judy,* of Madison, Benjamin Talbott,
» Samuel Judy was originally from Monroe county, where his father, Jacob
Judy, (Tohudy) a native of Switzerland, had, in 1794, erected a mill, the first
water-mill of any kind built by American settlers in that region ; this mill did
good service, and was for many years the only one between Kasky and Cahokia.
imSTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
129
of Gallatin, William Biggs, of St Clair, and Thomas Fer-
guson, of Johnson, forming ihe Legislative Council, and
Risdon Moore and James Lemen, jr., of St. Clair ; Philip
Trammel and Thomas C Browne, of Gallatin, John G. Lof-
ton and William Rabb, of Madison, and Jarvis Hazleton,
of Randolph, forming the House of Representatives.
The organizalicn of the county did not then give universal
satisfaction to the inhabitants of the counties, out of which
the new county was fjrined. James Lemen, jr., then a re-
presentative of St. Clair county, deemed it proper to explain
his vote on the question iu a lengthy address published in
the Kaskajkia Herald, the first newspajjcr published in the
state.
The address contains a vast amount of political wisdom
and morality, and is well worthy to be preserved Besides
there are numerous descendents of the Lemen family iu
Monroe county who may have a personal interest besides in
the document
To the freemen of St. Clair county.
Fellow citizens : Previous to my election as one of your repre-
sentatives, I wasnotignoraiit of the responsibility that would
devolve on me as a legislator if elected. On turning my.
attention to political matters or the subject of legislation ;
I have always viewed it as intricate and important, while I
have been led to believe that it could not be filled to the
satisfaction of all who have to be legislated for, many of
whom having real or imaginary local interests involved not
differing Irom each other. Therefore let the representative
pursue what course he may, if he should receive the sanction
and applause of some, he may expect to be censured and
calumuiated by others. A consciousness of this circum-
stance, induced me to feel much reluctance in engaging such
an office, but believing that man was not created to dwell in
a state of nature independent of or unconnected wiih each
other, but for the formation and benefit of society, by which
it is understood that each part should protect and be under
the control of the whole so that the community should
guard the rights and enforce the obedience of each individual-
Thus government, results of course from the formation of
society as necessary for its protection, and as each individual
owes an equal part to the protection of civil government,
therefore each is bound in similar obligations to participate
in government, when called by the community to aid in
promoting welfare. Although not entirely congenial to my
feelings, I freely obeyed the call of my fellow-citizens to a
seat in the legislature of this territory, in performing the
duties of which I have eudeavored to serve you to the best
of my capacity, and when your wishes have been communi-
cated to me my most active exertions have been used to pro-
mote your wishes. The only subject which I supported
without satisfactory information was the erecting of a new
county out of the cjuuties of St. Clair and Randolph, but
policy dictated to me the necessity of such a measure, for at
the first session which I served in the legislature, there was
a new county erected out of the northeast part of Gallatin,
to which a representative was allowed, and at the last session
there were three new counties erected out of the counties of
17
Johnson and Gallatin and Randolph, called White, Pope
and Jackson, all of which were suj)plied with members trom
Gallatin, one of its former members to supply a representa-
tive ^or White, thus the lower counties will at the next ses-
sion of the legislature send six members to the house of re-
presentatives, while Randolph, St. Clair and Madison (if no
division on our ])art had taken place) would have sent but
four, which would have given the lower members so decided
a majority as to have enabled them to have legislated for
the whole territory ; the necessity therefore of throwing an
additional weight in our scale of legislative power presented
itself to my view and I advocated the measure. I was also
sensible of the extreme hardship under which those citizens
included in the new county had to labor in attending the
seat of justice of the old, a grievance which was represented
to the legislature with a petition containing about 200 signers,
and believing that nothing short of such a division would
tranquillize our county, while we had it in our power to de-
signate the division line favorable to it, and fearing that such
might not hereafter be the case, I should not have acted ac-
cording to the dictates of what 1 conceived to be sound
policy, if I had not aided in the division, and I am
happy to assure my fellow-citizens that I am of the opinion
that it will result to their advantage, as the growing popu-
lation in the frontier parts of the counties of St. Clair and
Randolph will in a short time demand the erection of another
new county, which will perminantly settle the seat of justice
in our flourishing county.
James Le.mes, Jr.
The third territorial legislature of Illinois, elected in
August, 1816, two months after the organization of Monroe
county, was convened at Kaskaskia on the 2d of December,
1816. Monroe, however, was not represented during this
session, which lasted to January 14th, 1817. At the second
.session, convened on the 1st of December, 1817, was repre-
sented in the legislative council (senate), by Abraham
Amos, whose name is frequently mentioned iu the early
records of the county. He was a justice of the peace, and
apparently a follower of Christ, for as such he solemnized
the rites of matrimony between William F. Roberts and
Elizabeth Farquer, on the 14th of August, 1817, affixing
the letters " M. P." to his name. As Monroe county did not
then sport a " Member Parliament " the M. P. above seemed
to read Missionary Preacher.
The houje of representatives of the third territorial legis-
lature, December, 1816, to January, 1818, did not contain a
member from Monroe.
COUNTY GOVERNMENT.
The civil officers appointed by the governor, met at the
house of John McClure, at Harrisonvilie, on the 1st day
of June, 1816, and caused their clerk to inscribe the follow-
ing in the county records, to wit :
Organization of the county court. — Pursuant to an act of
the legislature of the Illinois territory, passed on the 6th
day of January, 1816, for forming a new county out of
Randolph and St. Clair counties, to be called Monroe,
Caldwell Cairns, James Lemen, Sr., and Abraham Amos,
130
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
gentlemen, met at the house of John McClure, in the town
of Harrisonville, and county of Monroe, on the first day of
June, 1816, and severally produced commissions from his
excellency, the governor, bearing date the lOlh day of
January, 1816, appointing them judges of the county court
of Monroe county.
Whereupon, William Alexander, Esq., by commission
from his excellency, the governor, having been appointed
clerk and recorder of the county of Monroe, aforesaid, and
having heretofore taken the oaths prescribed by law,
together with James B. Moore, Esq., his security as clerk,
and Caldwell Cairus, Esq., hia security as recorder, entered
into and acknowledged bonds in the penalties and with the
conditions required by law.
And thereupon, the said William Alexander, in pursuance
of the act of the legislature in such case made and provided,
administered the several oaths required by the constitution
of the United States and the laws of this territory, to be
taken by the judges of the county courts, to said Caldwell
Cairns, James Lemen, Sr., «p ' Abraham Amos.
James B. Moore, gentl o, produced a commission from
his excellency, the .ernor of this territory, bearing date
on the 10th day of January, 1816, appointing him sheriff of
the county of Monroe, and together with William Alexander
and James Lemen, Sr., his securities, entered into and
acknowledged bond in the penalty and with the condition
required by law, and took the oaths required by law.
James B. Edwards produced a commission from William
Alexander, Enquire, clerk of the county of Monroe, appoint-
ing him deputy clerk of said county, as also a commission
from said William Alexander, as recorder of the county
aforesaid, appointing him- deputy recorder of said county,
whereupon the said Edwards took the oaths required by law.
The little craft, called Monroe county, was now officered
to start out on its career as a body politic. The reader
will observe that the officers ranked as follows : The judges
and sheriff, as gentlemen; the clerk, as esquire, and the
deputy without rank The entry does not state to what
day or place the authorities had adjourned, but at any rate,
the record shows, that they had selected the next Saturday
for a meeting, and from the work done at this first " term,"
it is to be inferred that the county fathers had not been idle
during the week.
This, the first court, was held again at the house of John
McClure, on the 8th day of June, 1816, when the following
proceedings were had :
Present, Caldwell Cairns, James Lemen and Abraham
Amos, gentlemen judges of the county of Monroe. The
court proceeded to lay off and divide the county into town-
ships as follows, to wit : ordered that
Eayle Township, being No 1 in this county, be considered
as included in the following boundaries, viz. : Commencing
on the Mississippi river, where the base line strikes said
river, thence with its meanders until it intersects the tornado,
where it crosses said river, thence east until it strikes the
county bridge on Eagle creek, from thence following the
meanders of said creek to where it passes through the bluff,
from thence east of north so as to include Levi Pickett, and
from thence to the county line, continuing on to where it
commenced.
Harrison Township, being No. 2 in this county, be considered
as included in the following boundaries, commencing where
the tornado crosses the Mississippi river, thence with the
meanders of said river to the mouth of the Big Gut below the
town of Harrisonville, from thence an east course running
between Hugh Kalston and Isaiah Levens, so as to include
Kinney's mills and Avington Shirril's, from thence a north
course so as to include Valentine's old mills and Converse's,
from thence with the meanders of Eagle creek to where said
creek passes through the bhiff.
Mifchie Township, being No. 3 in this county, be considered
as included in the following boundaries, viz : Commencing
at the mouth of the Big Gut on the Mississippi river, thence
with its meanders to the county line, thence with the county
line to where it intersects Range line, between Ranges No.
9 and No. 10 west, from thence a northwest course, so as to
include McRul rts until it intersects the division line be-
tween Harrison and said township.
Belle Fountaine Township, being No. 4 in this county, be
considered as included in the following boundaries, viz. :
Commencing where Eagle township struck the county line,
thence southeast to the corner of said county, thence south
to the southeast corner of township No. 4 south, from thence
with the county liae until it intersects Mitchic township,
from thence with Mitchie until it strikes Harrison township,
and from thence until it intersects Eagle township. After
establishing these townships the court hastened to gladden
the hearts of many of their citizens by elevating them to
various offices. John Violeny was made constable of Harri-
son, and Michael Masterson of Mitchie, Stephen Terry and
Churchill Fulsher became overseers of the poor for Eagle,
James Garretson ..nd Solomon Shook for Harrison, James
Henderson and Alexander McNab for Mitchie, and Michael
Miller and James McDonald, Robert Hawk, William Hogan,
William Alexander, Raphael Drury, George McMurtrey
and James Bradshaw became supervisors of roads.
John Moore, "gentleman," produced his commission as
treasurer, and also one of coroner, and was sworn in the
office. It was agreed that hereafter the " court" should meet
at the house of Thomas O'Conner, and that Thomas O'Con-
ner should have a tavern license, for which he was to pay
$ J GO per annum. John Cooper was also granted such
license, whereupon the court regulated the prices to be
charged by said tavern keepers as follows :
For a warm breakfast, dinner or supper 25o.
For lodging (one in abed) 12J.^
For lodging (two or more in a bed), each 6!4
For whiskey by the half pint 12H
For peach or apple brandy, by half pint 12^
For cider per quart 12^
For porter or beer per bottle 37J^
For porter or beer per quart 25
For oats or corn per gallon 12J^
For hay, oats or fodder for a horse, per day 37^
For cherry bounce, per half pint 18>i
The court proceeded on the same day to order a tax levy,
as follows :
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
131
For each bond servant or slave Sl.OO
•• each horse over 3 years old ;V)
" eaeh stud-horse, the rate he stands at the season.
•' each town and out lot, wind and water-mill, mansion-house, for
every $UH) value, the sum of :lil
" every sijigle man over 21 years of age $I.<JO
Timothy Coats was licensed to keep a ferry from Carthage
(formerly Harrisoiiville) across the Mistitsijipi, with rattsas
foHows : Man, "Joe. ; horse, 50c.; homed cattle, Too. ; light
carriage, $1.50; road wagon, $1.75; freight, 8c. per 100 lbs ,
and a cart or a " gig." 81.00
The attention of the court was next directed to acquiring
a donation of land whereon to erect the public buildings of
the county, as O'Conncr'.s charge of $3 00 per term for the
use of his house as a court-room was too extravagant. In
this the court was successful, inasmuch as McKnight and
Brady were ready for a donation, and did subseijuenlly e.x-
cute the following instrument, to wit :
Till-: SK.VT Ol- JfSTKli.
I)ee>l of McKii'Kjht <{• Dnnhj to the Cixnilij.
This indenture, made this lUih day of June, a. d.
1816, between John McK night and Thomas Brady, trading
under the firm of JIcKnight A Brady, of the county of St.
Louis and territory of Missouri of the one part, and William
Alexander, James Lemen, sen., James B. Moore, and James
McKoberts, commissioners appointed by virtue of an act of
assemblv, in that case made and provided for an<l in behalf
of the county of Monroe, in the territory of Illinois, of the
other part, witnesseth that the said John McKnight and
Thomas Brady, trading under the firm of McKnight &
Bradj' as aforesaid, for and in consideration of the sum of
one dollar current money of the United States of America,
to them in hand paid, the receipt whereof they hereby ac-
knowle<Ige, aiul forever acquit and discharge the said Wil-
liam Alexander, James Lemen, sen., James B. Moore, and
James McKoberts, commissioners aforesaid, their heirs, ex-
ecutors and administrators, have granted, bargained, sold,
aliene<l, enfeciH'ed and confirmed, and by these presents do
grant, bargain, sell, alien, enfeoff and confirm unto the said
William Alexander, J.imes Lemen, Sen., James B. Moore
and James Melloberts, commissioners i'or and in behalf of
the county of Monroe aforesaid, and their heirs and assigns
forever, the following lots or parcels of laud situate in and
adjoining the town of Carthage, in the county of Monroe
aforesaid, to wit : Block No. 47 in the " plan " of the said
town, containing one acre and 32 poles, and lots No. 1, 2, 3,
4, on the east end of the town tract and adjacent to the said
town of Carthage, containing together eighteen acres and
one hundred'and twenty-eight poles, which said lots tcgether
with block No. 47 in the plan of said town of Carthage, eon-
tain in the whole twenty acres, more or less, by a late survey,
together with all inipn>veruent.'', profits and ajipurtenances
whatsoever to the said lots belonging or in anywise apper-
taining, and the reversions, remainders and profits thereof,
and all the estate, right, title, interest, property, claim and
demand of them the said John McKnight and James Brady,
of, in and to the same, to have an<l to hold the aforesaid lots
or parcels of land hereby conveyed, with all an<l singular the
premises and every part and parcel thereof, with every of
the appurtenances, unto the said William Alexander, James
Lemen, sen., James B. Moore and James McRoberts, com-
missioners as aforesaid, for the use and in behalf of the
county of Monroe aforesaid, their heirs and assigns forever.
And the said John McKnight and Thomas Brady, for them-
selves, their heirs, executors ami administrators, do cove-
nant, promise and agree to and with the said William Alex-
ander, James Lemen, sen., James B. Moore and James Mc-
Kobeits, commissioners as aforesaid, their heirs ami a.ssigns,
by these presents, that the i)remises before mentioned now
are and forever hereafter shall remain free of and from all
former and other gifts, grants, barg:iins. sales, dowers, rights
and titles of dower, judgments, executions, titles, troubles,
charges and incumbrances whatsoever, done or suffered to
be doue by them the said John McKnight and Thomas
Brady. And the said McKnight A- Brady aforesaid, and
their heirs, all and singular the premises hereby bargained
and sold with the appurtenances, unto the said William
Alexander, James Lemen, sen., J.iracs B. Moore and James
McRoberts, commissioners as aforesai<l, their heirs and as-
signs, against them the said .John JIcKnight and Thomas
Brady, trading under the firm of McKnight & Brady, and
their heirs and all and every other person or persons what-
soever, do and will warrant and forever defend by these
presents.
In witness whereof they the said .lolm McKnight and
Thomas Brady, trading under the firm of McKnight &
Brady, have hereunto set their hands and affixed their seals,
the day and year first before written.
Signed, sealed and delivered ]
in the presence of j
Tiio>r.vs J.vMKs. MiKMiaiT A Bi;.\I)Y.
J AMiis li. Er)\v.vi;ii.s-.
Illinois Territory, |
Monroe County, j
Be it remembered, that on the 2i'th day of July. l^Ki,
James B. Edwards, one of the subscribing witnesses to the
foregoing deed of conveyance, personally appeared before
me, a justice of the peace of Monroe county aforesaid, and
made oath that he saw Thomas Brady, one of the firm of
McKnight and Brady, the grantors in said deed mentioned,
sign and heard him acknowledge the same as anil for his
free and voluntary act, and alloweii the same to be recorded
iu the recorder's office of said county, given under my hand
and seal the day and year aforesaid.
I'jjiNCE Bry.^st, /^ _ ^^
Justice of the Peace. v^— -_>/
The title thus conveyed to the county by the firm of Mc-
Knight and Brady was, as lawyer Guy Gaylord contended,
not perfect, and the county authorities were unsuccessful to
find purchasers. In IM^^, April 28, a second deed to the
.same real estate was made, signed this time by John Mc-
Knight, Thomas Brady and Harriet, his wife, individually.
.Still the people were very slow in investing in this property,
.so that even (.Jen. .lohn Edgar, of Kaskaskia, felt it his duty
to come to the rescue, which Ir.' did in th.> following card
published in the Illinois Intelligencer of June 15, 181!), to
wit :
Nutice. — Wherea-s the public in general and particularly
132
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
the inhabitants of Monroe county, are concerned for the
honest growth and prosperity of the county seat of said
Monroe county at Harrisonville : Therefore, for the inform-
ation of the public, I decertify that I have sold all my claim
to the land whereon said C(>unty seat is situate to Messrs.
McKnight and Brady, and know of no other claim to said
land than that of the above named McKnight and Brady.
Kaskaskia, May 12, 1819.
III. Inteirnjencer, June 16, 1819. John Edgar.
Leaving this subject we return to the assessment of tax-
able property which was ordered by the board to be made
at ODce. The writer believes that the following are the iden-
tical-returns made, although they arc without date. They
are made out in the handwriting of John Moore and signed
by him, who, as seen elsewhere, was the first assessor of the
county. He served as such two consecutive years, and his
returns may also serve here for the purpose of a census,
which was taken in 1818, but not preserved. The names of
the tax payers are alphabetically arranged; and may call up
many recollections of times passed.
LIST OF TAXPAYERS OF MONROE COUNTY — 1816.
Alexander William, Anderson William, Arundel William,
Arnold James, Atchison John, Abraham Amos, Axley Eli-
sha, Atchison John, Atchison William, Alexander John,
Ayers William, Berver Nathan, Bryan Daniel, Bradshaw
Absalom, Brimberry John, Boggs Jesse, Baldwin Francis,
Bryant Prince, Badgley Ichabod, Bryan William, Boisen
Ebenezer, Blaukenship Noah, Borer Jacob, Beaird Joseph
A., Brown William, Bradley Kubin, Barrick William,
Brock George, Blankeuship Matthew, Brown William,
Brownfield Charles, Browufield Theron, Bradshaw James,
Barkner Abner, Bond Shadrach, Clark Felix, Clark Jacob,
Carey Joshua, Clark Edward, Chaffiu William, Chafhu Seth,
ChafEn Ellis, Chaffin Amos, Cooper Jesse W., Crouch Ed-
ward, Chance William, Clark Ben., Clark William, Cape W.
B., Cooper John, Chandler Amos, Converse Seth, Calhoon
Ann, Carr Leonard, Clover Jacob, Cairns Caldwell, Cook
E. R., Cartell Jacob, Drury Raphael, Dunn Samuel, Davis
Elijah, Dace Michael, DSce Herman, Deconey John, Deprew
Michael, Divers John, Dillard Ishmael, Eastwood Abraham,
Eastwood Jacob ( what has become of Eastwood Isaac? Eagan
John, Everett William, Eastes Jehu, Eberman Abraham,
Fields Henry, Fowler James, Fry Cath., Forquer George,
Ford Elizabeth, Garrish Edward, Forquer William, Go^mer
Peter, Goldsmith Charles, Green Barditt, Greenleaf Mayo,
Garretson James, Grate John, Hull Daniel, Hettick Andrew,
Henderson James, Howard William, Hogan William, Halde-
man Christopher, Hogan Joseph, Hammon Michael, Hoit ,
Hogan Prior, Hawk Robert, Hawk John, Hartman Fred-
erick v., Hendricks James, Hamilton Thomas M., James
John, James Thomas, Jameson John, Jameston Alexander,
Jonstou Nathaniel, Jonston John, Jonston William, Kinney
Joseph, Kidd Robert, Kinney Andey, Kirkpatrick Francis,
Kissel James, Lemen William, sr., Leraen James, Lemeu
William, jr., Lemen Moses, Lemen Josiah, Layway Baptist,
Lock Gerardis, Levins Isaiah, Leathers Charles, Lathy
Robert, Lusby Thomas, Laster George, Ladd Elijah, Moore
J. Milton, Miller Michael, Miller Jesse, Miller Robert, Mars
Thomas, Miller John, Marney Benjamin, Mitchell John,
Martin "Lawyer," Miller Henry, Moredock John, Moore
John, May Reuben, Modglin John sr., Modglin Henry,
Moore James B , Miller Joseph, Miller Ruben, Modglin
John, Moore Enoch, Modglin Henry, Mattingley Richard,
McMurty George, McDonald James, McKinzey Rolley,
McDavid John, McNabb Alexander, McKeen Joseph,
McDaniel L , McDaniel James, McClure John, McRoberts
James, McMeen Joseph, Nolin Samuel, Nelson Thomas,
Nelson James, Nelson Abraham, Newlin James, Osborn Fran-
cis, OCorner Thomas, Preston J^zekiel, Porter James, Page
Louis, Payne Adams, Porter Thomas, Parraux Pascal, Par-
raux Amable, PiggottLevi, Parmer Ambrose,Patterson Luke,
PattersonCharles,Primm John, Ray ner Samuel, Rapert Dan-
iel, Rogers William, Rader Philip, Rolsten Hugh, Roach John
Robins William, "Rite Mr.", Roberts Henry, Robins John,
Roberts Jesse, Robinson David, Ryley Mills, Ramey George,
Sterritt Thomas, Skeen Jacob, Shehen Sebastian, Starr Dan-
iel, Shehen John, jr.. Smith James, Scovel Henry, Pink Dan-
iel, Strout Peter, Scott George, Shephard John, Summers
John, Shook Solomon, Scott Jehu, Scott John, Strong Solo-
mon, Shook Daniel, Shephard James, Stevens Samuel, Ster-
ritt Avington, Smith Samuel, Sullivan James, Scott Francis,
Sterritt William, Taylor Levi. Trask Mervin, Tolin John, jr.,
Tolin Isaac, Trout Jacob, Todd Widon, Turner James,
Turner Samuel, Talbott Thomas, Talbott Elijah, Taylor
Thomas, sr., Taterfield Jesse, Talbott Joshua, Taylor James,
Taylor Thomas, jr , Varnum Moses, Vollentine George,
Volleutiue Ichabod, Varnum Jewett, Vaughn Th., Williams
Zophor, Westbrook Elisha, Worley Joseph, Wilson J. M.,
Worley William, Woodrum John,sr , Worley John, Wiswell
Jesse, Wright Josiah, Winters John, Wells Alexander,
Warner John, Whaley James, Whaley Baker, Woodrome
J. P., Woodrome David, Whiteside David, Woodrome Wil-
liam, Whiteside IMary, W^allis George, Welch Edward,
Woodrome Joel, Wilson Otho, Wilson Edward; Wiustanley
Thomas, Wightman John, Young David, and Yannie Law-
rence.
Remarks. — The number of people subject to paying taxes
was 269. Of these were 47 unmarried men, over the age of
21 years, who had to pay a tax of 81.00 per capita for the
enjoyments of bachelor life, and for being the " beaux" of
their time. The taxable property of that period of time con-
sisted in slaves and horses, also in mills, distilleries, mansions
and town lots. The assessment of 1816 shows that there
were 22 slaves in the county, owned by Jacob Trout, Philip
Rader, James McRoberts, fohn Jameson, Joseph Hogan,
James B. Moore, George Ramey, each owning one slave,
Mary Whiteside, Caldwell Cairns, R. Mattingley and Shad-
rach Bond, each owning two Solomon Shook owned three,
and Joseph A. Beaird, four slaves. There were 5^9 horses
in the county, the tax on which produced S299.50.
A large majority of the 222 families of the county lived
in cabins, which were'^iot reached by the tax gatherer. The
more opulent, who livtd in "mansions," were the following:
Francis Baldwin lived in a 400 dollar palace, Joseph A.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
133
Beaird had a " city" residence, located on two lots, and
valued at 8500. Jesse W. Cooper acd John Cooper also
owned town lots, valued respectively 8300 and S500. Seth
Converse resided in an expensive mansion, worth 8550 in
rural districts. Raphael Drury was most extravagant ; for
his, a planter's residence, was rated at 8700, and Arthur
Eberniairs at 8"2O0. Michael Dace had two lots worth 8100.
James Grate and James Garrttson had good farm houses,
worth 8300 and 8350. James Henderson's and John Hogan's
dwellings were worth 450 and 400 dollars. Thomas James'
Harrisonville residence was assessed at 8600; Alexander
Jameson's at S'200 ; James Lemen and Thomas Lusby had
town residences of.?4()0, and SlOO value ; John Moore rivaled
Raphael Urury in the elegance and ctstliness of residence,
for he rated his house also at STOO ; Michael Miller's at
J-250, and Jiinus B. Moore's at 8100 ; Daniel Sink sunk 8(iOO
to build him a mansion ; Solomon Shook, 8350; and John
Shehen, Jr., 8'^00 Thus we see 22 families comfortably
" housed," and it is to be supposed " that the owners of mills
also had convenient house room. They were Andey Kinney,
whose mill i^* rated at 81,000. Andey had erected a cotton
machine besides."
I.-hmael Dillard's mill was assessed at 8950, and Richard
]\laltingley's at SoOO.
There were 31 town lots owned and improved by indi-
viduals. The taxes to be collected tn this assessment give
the following figures:
Fpriy-.«evcn bachelors were e.ipectcd to pny for the fnn of being sneh, S47.00
The owners of the 22 sUves had to pay tl per eapitu, 22.110
The owners of the 390 hordes were taxed 50 cenis eneh, 2'.i'j JO
And Edward Crouch, who kept a staUion, was taxed 3.00
Owners of mill property paid ."io cents per hundred dollars ad vn'orem:
Valueof mill property, S2200.:.o, 11.25
Value of mansions, J83C1 ^1-'^
Total expected revenue of 1816, S424.50
The slave property was not valued very high in those
days, and, if the tax per capita should be a criterion, we
may infer that two horses were equivalent in value to a
slave. We add here a short sketch of what the records of
the county have to say on the subject :
A census of slaves residing in Monroe county was com-
pleted on the 30th of January, 1817. The number of slaves
reported was small— only 13 all told. Joseph A. Beaird
owned then a couple of blacks, Henry and Annaky, who
were "indented" for a short 80 j'ears ; both will be "free"
on the 30th of January, 1897. James McRoberts' man
George was to be free in 18.9. William Hogan's negro
servant must have been a man of letters, for he went under
♦Look Here ! !
For the encouragement of those that wish to raise cotton that may live con-
venient, I therefore give this early notice, that I have erected a cotton machine
at my mill on the waters of liyans creek, in St. Clair county, six miles from
Harrisonville, said machine goes by waler, and will "machine" one thoufand
weight of cotton per day, leaving less seeds or motes in it than any cotton that
has ever appeared in this territory. )Iy price for "machining" is the seventh
pound, but any " person living e.ist of the road leading from Prairie du Kochcr
to Cahokia fetching cotton, shall have it " machined" for ihe eighth pound,— or
any person living west of the Mississippi fetching cotton shall have it on the
same terms. Any person favoring me with their custom on any day of the week,
except the Sabbath, their business will be immediately attended to, and their
work done in the neatest order by the subscriber.
Andet Kinnet.
Illinois Uerald, December 4, 1814.
the name of " Doctor," and was to be free in 1857. He
came from Georgia. John Jameson owned a " wench " of
royal blood. She was named Dido, after the queen of Car-
thage in North Africa. Freedom dawned for her in 18G2,
when she would be 61 years of age. Her cradle had stood
in the bluegra.ss region of Kentucky. Richard Mattingley
had two slaves, Henry and Harry, aged 23 and 20 years
respectively; both were to be free when they reached their
54th year of age. R. B. Herring's man Harry was to be
free in 1847. James B. Moore owned a family of a mother,
two daughters and a son. The latter enjoyed the beautiful
and significant name of" Boar," was 13 years old, and was
to be a free boar in 1839. Frederick Mason brought a six-
year old boy, named Hank, from New York, who was to be
a free man when 21 years of age. The taking of servants
from Illinois to Mi.^souri could not be done without consent
of the servants, to be obtained before the county court, as
given here :
Illinois Territory, )
Monroe County, J *''"
This is to certify that Page, an indented negro woman,
the property of Henry Leveiis, personally appeared b fore
the undersigned, one of the judges of the county court for
the county aforesaid, and being examined separate and
apart from her said luaster, voluntarily declared that she
was willing to go into the Mi.s.soiiri Territory with her
present owner.
Given under my hand and seal, this 12lh day of July,
1817.
Caldwell Cairns. (^^j^J
emancipation PAPEHJ;.
The manumission of slaves had to be made a matter of
record. Among thfse records is found the following queer
entry, to wit :
Be it remembered that on this IStli day of March in the
year 1820, Andrew Mitchell, born on the first day of Oc-
tober, 1776, sUiui mid robust, iiriijh'nifj ahnut 240 pounds
and produced from under the signature and seal of the
clerk of the circuit court of St. Louis a certificate in the
following words, viz.:
Territory of Mkwuri, St. Louis.
Know all men by these presents that I, Andrew Mitchell,
of the same territory and county of St. Louis, do by these
presents, of my own free will and pleasure, emancipate and
from this date forever set free from me, my heirs, executors
and administrators my " negruw " woman named Nance or
Nancy and her four children, to wit, a girl named Lucy, a
boy named Charles, a boy named Solomon and a girl named
Cordelia, the said negroes to be henceforth forever dis-
charged of all demands of servitude in ihe same manner
they would have been if they had been born free.
In testimony whereof I have set my hanil and seal, in the
presence of witnesses, this 4th day of October, 1819.
Andrew Mitcuell. ( seai> i
134
HISIORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Territory of Missouri, \
county of St. Louis, j **■
Circuit court Dec. 1819.
Be it remembered that on the first day of December per-
sonally appeared in open court George I'itzer and Christopher
M. Price and being duly sworn upon their oath say that
they saw the faid Andrew Mitchell sign, seal and acknow-
ledge the same as his own act and deed for the purposes
therein mentioned.
/< — ^ Given under ray hand and seal of office at St.
(J^^j Louis, Dec. 8, 1819.
Archibald Gamble, Clerk.
The records do not explain, why the above was placed on
record of Monroe county. The last " free papers " found in
the court house were never made a matter of record. A
small slip of paper, 6x8 inches, sets forth the following :
Mr. AVm. Omelveny,
The bearer hereof, Susan Battiste, has
been raised by me and has served her time out and is now
of age and is entitled to her free papers.
April 22nd 1847. John Divers.
TESUKE OF land. — THE RENAULT GRANT.
This subject has been treated on preceding pages in this
chapter under the heading of Randolph county, to which
pages the reader is respectfully referred. The ancient French
colony of St. Philip, a few miles above Fort Chartres was
founded about the year 1725 by Philip Franr;uis Renault,
(usually called Renault) and his followers who came directly
fram France. The older colonies, Cahokia in the north and
Kaskaskia in the south of St. Philip were founded by Cana-
dians, French by birth and by descent. The lands occupied
by said Renault had beeu granted to hira by the authorities
of France. The American state papers, volume II. page 164
contain the following statement in reference to this claim ;
"On the 14th day of June 1723 a grant was made to
Philip Renault in fee simple in order to enable him to sup-
port his establishments at the mines of upper Louisiana, by
Boisbriant and des Ursins, the former styling himself the
king's lieutenant and governor of the province of Louisiana,
and the latter, principal secretary of the royal India com-
pany, of a tract of laud at a place called the Great Marsh
bounded on the south by lands of the Illinois Indians, estab-
lished near Fort Chartres, of one league in front on the Mis-
sissippi and extending back into the county two leagues."
All that part lying between the Mississippi and the hills
or blutfs has been conveyed by said Renault in small allot-
ments to sundry individuals. Out of this grant of Renault
has arisen the village of St Philip, the lots of which were
parts of the oblong tracts and were either occupied as build-
ing spots by those who owned the said tracts or purchased
by others from those who did own them. Nearly all these
subdivisions were in 1809 claimed and owned by Joseph
Morrison, Wm. Mcintosh, John Evert, Wra. Morrison and
Wm. Murray.
St. Philips : The common field lands of this French village
were surveyed by Wm. Proctor and return made to the office
of the surveyor of the United States June 2nd, 1809. There
were then 27 oblong tracts of various dimensions, running
north 2(3° 30, east, from the river to the bluffs.
The original owners, as far as it can be ascertained from
the United States papers vol. II. page 164 were as follows,
commencing at the southern line, which line has a length of
1305 poles.
Charles Vein conflrmed to John Everet 110 acres.
J. B. Mollet " Joseph Morrison 269?^ "
Louis Pothier " Joseph Morrison 284}^ "
Viaiilt Esperome " John Everet 28414 •'
Louis PoHlin " heirs of Jean Mereiers •. . . . 18'J'4 "
Jean Legr.inge '* Joseph Morrison 189 "
M. Gorgnon " Joseph Morrison 94 "
Nieliolas Prevost, dit Blandine Wiliiam MorrLson 189 "
Joseph Belcour " Joseph Morrison 284 *'
Louis Lenray " William Morrison 190 "
William Drury " William Morrison 190 "
Jean B. Gendron " Joseph Morrison 95 "
Etienue Leiand " Joseph Morrison 190 "
M. Gagnord " Joseph Morrison 285 "
J. B. GodiD, alias Champagne Joseph Morrison 284 "
Buchette * Bienvenue " Jo.seph Moriisou 800 "
Buohette >(; Bienvenue " William Murr.ay 033 "
Nichol.as Prevost " John Everet 284 "
Michael Laguiness " Joseph Morrison 174 "
Jean Legrange '• Joseph Morrison 2.73 "
Antom Larcello " William Mclutosh 108
Miehael Laguiness " Joseph Morrison . . 3:51 "
Etienne Guevremont " Joseph .Alorrison 102 '*
J. B; Gendron " Joseph Morrison 8K '*
Jean & Pierre Gerardin" Joseph Morrison 236
Joseph Pierre " J. F. Perry 5.50
Frangois Noisee " John Uice Jones 5.52 "
Aggregate number of acres 7,420
The north boundary line measures 1,072 poles.
The lands of the common fields of St. Philip's are now
owned by Jacob Fults' heirs, Oliver Nie's heirs, James Rut-
ledge, George Bradshaw's heirs, P. C. Koch, Andrew Koch,
Philip A. Maus, A. B. Cavanah, Jacob Rebenack, F. W.
Brickey, Brickey and Anhuchon, Jacob Meyer, John Mat-
tingiey, M. Claudet, Joseph Harsey, E. L. Morrison, David
Klamp, James Canifl, Michael Carr, Peter Zeiger, William
Crook, Demint & Hardy, Dennis Chartmnd, D. W. Bryant,
W. J. Burke, Edward Ahern's heirs, Charles Doerr's heire,
Aquilla McNabb, Theodor Hursey, Henry Jacobs, Edward
Coon, John Barnes, Peter Kelley, Edward Faherty, Mary
Slate, John Wall, William Winkelmann, Rob. Orr's heirs
and Mary A Shenly. Among the names of the present
owners are found only three of French appearance, to wit,
Aubuchon, Claudet and Chartrand. The American pioneer
families seem to be represented by the Bradshaws, the Mor-
risons, Bryants and McNabba. Many German names are
also met with in the above list, while the Kelleys and Fa-
hertys show that the Emerald Isle is not left without proper
representation.
Philip Fran5ois Renault, after having disposed of the
southern part of this grant, returned to his native country,
where he died, as is said, in 1755.* The north part of his
* Andri5 Narcisse de la Mothe, of Montreal, appeared in court at Waterloo^
on the ICth of August A. D. 1880, and produced a power of alt orney from the
heirs of said Renault, and, in substance, made the followin g statement :
The ofBcial records of the " Tribunal ciril de Peroune, France," exhibit.
That Philip Franijois Renault died in "France" on the24lhof April, 1775, being
the owner of large tracts of land in Amarica, grouted to him A. D. 1723 by the
French Government, among which the Renaud (Renault) Grant in Monroe
countv. His children surviving him were: Philip Francois Celestine,
Thomas Joseph, Marie Jeanne Augustine, Marie Anne Celestine Philliipine
married to M. Frangois, and Marie Caroline Gabrielle, married to Martin
HISTORY OF RAXDOLl'H, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES. ILLINOIS.
135
claim was never dispoed of by Reuault. It was "u|il!iii(i,"
somewhat broken and hilly, and consequently not desirable
at a period of time wlien bottom lands could be had for tiie
asking, as it were. The United States having declared the
original grant to Renault valid, the unoccupied parts of it
were never included in the United States surveys. In the
course of time, fcjuatters occupied portions of it and converted
the wilds into fields of plenty. These occupants were tax
free, inasmuch as the land was not and could not be thiir
property. In later times, about the years 1840 and l^i41.
the laud was listed for taxation and sold for taxes to John
Kyan and E. P. Rogers. This sale was annulled March 5,
184<i t
Matters remain d now in statu quo until very recently,
when the board of county commissioners cau.sed a survey to
be made of the individual claims, and subdivided the whole
int ) (ifty-six " lot^," now occupied and in possession of the
following residents, to wit: George Leip's heirs 12.11 acres-
John Friess 70.8!), Charles Lohkamp I l.">, John Gutman's
widow ;>.'! .SO, Fred. Roever oS ,S7, Henry Juelfs, two lots-
2ti0 07, Christine Brandt I'JO M, Nicholas Sutler 1.4."), Chris-
tian Stahl 151.80, Henry Vogel 131.71, Mary A. Vogel
58.17, Charles Doerr 12.14, Charles Meister 71.51, Frank'
Brown 14()..')0, Peter Vogel 57.14, William Vogel 20.53'
Christian Hoppe, two lots, 2.56, Adam Eigner 148.18, Her.
maun Landwehr 155.10, Ulrich Meyer 47-100, Church pro
perty 1 acre, Joseph Heller 9(i.33, George Harlow's heirs
118 ()!), Conrad Burkhardt 12 6, Lewis Wortmann 10.5.02,
Henry Wortmann's widow 4 03, William Wortmann's estate
1()8..)8, John Schult (i.34, Joseph Heller's estate Oo.liO, John
Niemann 160.24, Fred. Heller 188 35, Louis Eymann 148.80,
Latoiir. Thomas Joscpli nnd Marie Jonnne Augustine dieil without issue
(dalf of decease not mentioned) iifter having willed all their interest in the
►aid grant or grants to their older brother, Philip I'rancjois Celesline Henaul
(Renault). The lut enlied Febru.iry 3, ITiin, leaving ns only heir his daughter,
Amelie Josephine Keiiaut, married to Monsieur de Pancemont. Sh>- died
intestate January 18, 18;t^, leaving an only heir, to wit ; her daughter, .\ugu>tine
Anne Peeise Hyacinthe .idele, married to Cou..t do Tournou Simiiine. Her
three children, to %vit: Philip Auto n Fransois, An\elie Helene Frant'oise Rose,
and Marie Amelie Stephanie, widow of Count de Croi.x, were still living, repre-
senting three-fifths of the estate of the original Uenaut. Marie Anne Celestiiie
Philippine Francois, the fourth direct heir of Renault, died November 2M
178K, and her descendants, now eight in number, representalso one-fifth in i aid'
estate. Marie Caroline (iabric le I.atunr died January 2», 17115, and her
descendants now surviving, forty in number, own another one-tiflh of the
grant. The order of sale for the purpo,-e of partition, made by the above-
mentioned tribunal, was approve I by the Court of Appeals at Amien.! July 31,
1870. Mr. I.a Mothc, mentioned above, claims to be the owner of the northern
jart of the old Renault grant, by virtue of purchase. He brought suit in the
United Stales Court of Illinois, at Springfield, and obiainedjudguient. The
mitter is at prj<entstill in litigation, and a prop )sitio.i of I^a Mothe's to com-
promise the matter by paying him at tlie rate of %\iy.w per acie has been
declined by the present "squatters."
t BoAHD or couHTV coMMissiONP-Bs, Marcli .'>, 1840.
Now comes Emry P. Rogers, surviving partner of John Ryan, deceased, by
H. K.S. Umelveny, atid filea his motion, requiring this court to direct theij.
cleric to correct an error in the list of lands sold for taxes for the years 1840
and 1841 on the 5th day of September, 1842, in his office by making the sale of
the north half of Renault grant as having been erroneous, and to refund the
taxes paid for the years 1840. 1841, 1842, 1843 and ISJ.'.. And thereupon the said
petitioner produces in proof of the justice of this motion the nertitieate of Jacob
Feaman, register of the Land Office of the United States at Kaskasliia, Illinois,
stating that the above described land has never been confirmed to the heirs of
Renault, and that the title to the said land is still in the United States, and
alio a letter from James .Shields, Commissioner of the General Land OfHce of
the United States, setting forth the .same facts. And it appearing to the Court
that the said tract'pf Und, t« wit. the north Half of Kenaulfs grant was not
taxable atthe date of thesaidsale, it is ordered that the taxes thereon for said
years, amounting to 8170.65 be refunded to the said E. P. Rogers, and said sale
be annulled.
John Niemann 50.04, John Brown, Jr., 73.85, Philip Fauer-
bach 66.36, Jacob Fults 301.07, Michael J. PVisch 07 72,
Philip Kissel ()1.30, J. P. Brown, Sr., 88.10, Peter Roden-
berg, Sr., 102.(54, Ernst Prange 5.45, Dieterich Oft'erniann
198.83, Elenry Jacobs 151.0, Louis Wortmann 141.10, Henry
Rodenberg's estate 141 57, John Lorenz 141.12, Fred. Jan-
sen 56.70, Frederick Hendrix 402.24, Joseph Heller's estate
225 60, John Ihdler 80.;)4; lots 12, 18 and 25, containing
26 89 acres in the aggregate, are " unclaimed." These fifty-
six lots compri-e an area, according to county survey, of
5,202 acres, and are assessed at only $12,840. The actual
value, if a perfect title can be obtained, is much greater,
probably $35 per acre. Some of the " claims" would bring
S75 per acre, and the actual value of these 5,202 acres is
certainly not less than $180,000.
Other Land Oniiits. — Besides the Renault Grant, there
was a large number of "family head," "donation," " \'ir-
ginia improvement" and militia rights located in the county,
aggregating over 40,000 acres.
In order to present to the reader an accurate view of all
lands occupied or owned by individuals prior to the year
1820, the following table has been carefully arranged, ac-
cording to congressional townshijis:
LANDS ENTERED.
T. 3 8. — 8 W
1st Entry .\pr.l 24, 1815
Subsequent Entritt.
William Morrison, parts of j
\ Patrick Faherty, partsof sec. 29 . . 80
Aaron Youngman, parts of see. 32 . ICO
James .Smith, part of section 35 . . IGO
Preston Brickey, part ol sec. 30 . . lliO
C uitiis ami Sari-ei/s—iStiS.
'. John Edgar, survey 005, part in
Ualeigh Rawles, parts of sec-
tions 25 and 2l> 320
Stanley Dodge, parts of section 2;i . so
3-7
John Ri.
. 1143
. 1715
T. 2 SI 9 w.
ls( Entry— DtetmhtT 3, 1SI4.
James B. Moore, S. E. of sec. 7 . .
Subsifjut-nt EidrUt.
. MO
. OS
. 157
. 1110
. 80
.144
Claims aiul Sarveifs.
« illiam Higgs, survey 784, parts
Joseph McMun, parts of sec. 0 . .
I^. McDaniel, parts of sec. 0 . . .
Heirs of J. H. Moore, parts of
John Murdiick, survey, 041-171,
parts in 2-10
James Moore, survey 304 and 030
parts in 2-10
James (tarretsou, survey 4u7 ,fc
720 '.
.090
.480
William Farquer, parts of sec 33
Cook & Farquer, parts of sec. 30
and 31
James B. Moore, survey 778 . .
-9 w.
Moses Lemon, parts of sec. 19 .
Pierre Menard, parts of sec. 19
Cliinis and Suri-iys.
Peter Casterline, survey 722 . .
George Dement, survey 390 . . .
James Lemon, survey 395, part
. 400
Heirs of G. Dement parts sec. 31
T.
A
\st £n(n/,v4pn7 2n, ISLI.
Pierre Menard, N. W. of sec. 7 . .
Subsequent Eutrii-!.
Richard Dalton parts of sec. r. . .
Jesse Miller, parts of sec. 0 . . . .
John Tolin, parts of sec. 7. . . .
Isaac Tolin, parts of sec. 17 . . .
. nil
3 s.-
. 100
74
. 140
1.10
100
100
811
3034
Acj-es.
. 160
.168
.102
. 109
T. M. Hamilton, parts of sec. 17 .
Moses Varnum, parts of sec. 17 .
1003
T 4. s.^ — 9
Ut E>itrt/, September IG, 1814.
W. Hendrix. E. half of 9. E sec. 20 .
Spencer Atkins, p*rt of sec. 24 . .
Kzra Owen, part of sec. 2>
F. K. Owen, part of sec. 3G
Ctiin and Surveij.
Nicholas Jorrot, survey G13 ,
T. 5 s. — 9 w.
Acres.
CUiims and Surveys.
Nicholas Jarrot, Survey 743 400
William Atchison, survey 610 400
800
136
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
T. 1 N — 10 W.
s aid Surcei/s, M'y} 1, ISlj
Will. Mcintosh, survey 750 .
Nicholas /arret, fract. sec. 31 .
T. 1 S. — 10 W.
Claims and Swrveya.
Daniel McCann, survey 5o8 .... 400
John Etlgar, survey 773 4(iu
David Wliiteside, survey 418 . . . . 300
Willi.im Biggs, survey 417 400
Jacob Judy, survey 413 400
Benjaniiu Ogle, survey 044 .... 300
Joseph nu'l., vim.y .'..->(i 400
Franc-l- n-lli.r. -inv.-y 5.55 . . . . 400
Jamus I'mii'il. -iiiirys4104054 . . 801)
Jacol> (.]..ot, .-luvev 41.1 4CHI
Stephen Kerry, survey 0.*)4 . . . .
Nicholas Smith, survey 411 . . .
Henry O'llarra, survey 414, part
CaldM.-nCa
in 1-11 .
rvey 413, part
1
vey 74", part
1
T. 2
Leonard Harness, survey 434,
part in 1-11
ls( Eiitrji September 7, 1814.
.\bsaloin Bradshaw, N. W. quar-
ter of see. 24
Siihtcqiient Ell
Samuel Hill.
John J. ^.
Adelaid I'.ii
as N,-Knn, parts of sec- 20 . . .so
Hiadshaw, parts of see. 35 . lOO
I Whitley, parts of sec. 30 . . 117
-10 W.
Sur
J. Wo.Iey .
He
ey. Aers
507 11. (i
705 100
721 2mi
i'.l7, 042 500
04O 4' HI
670 400
400 4011
Shaihaeli Bond, Sr .
Sliailrach Bond, Jr . . .330,502,012 00
John Singleton 713 Kh
J. Hyan c:il si
Mlei.ael Miller 7.V, lo
George \alenline 30;; loi
Fubt Entry, Dec. 3, 1814.
Soth Comerse. . B. \V. of sec 8 11
Theion Bruiinfiel.l, part of see. i si
T. 3 s.— 10 w
J.ilm Berks .
J.iliii Kyaii ,
1. ,V T. Tax In
....i„g,. Far,|i
,1. ,i .1. liuiila
.1. y[ Mi.i.ie .
K|.l,raiii.s,o:
.Mieliaul.Mill.
12 120
25 201
13 112
James Henderson . . COO pi ili 4 m i"
Henry I.eyens . . . i.;;:i ii>
deorge Biggs. . . . ci:i :;"
Jaine.sM<dioberts,703,7n4ptiu4-10 2o
First Eiitn,, .Siji(. 17, 1814.
Miehnel Jliller . fr. N. K. of .•«ee. 1 15
James J-euien . part of see. 12, 13 31
M Rirkir . . . part of s
linii .Mrlntiish . part of s
.lalni's :\i,.i;.,i
W, F. .Mvll.il.i
F.lijah Talluit
T. 4 S. —
Snr;ey. Acrs
Jolm Rilgar 730, 702 Sou
John liiee Jones . . 707 494
John Uiec Jones . . 315ptin5-10 652
Williaul Mcintosh. 30Sptin5 10 121
J. Worley 4S7 2oo
llaplniel Druiy . . . 0^5 Im
JaniesSeott 707 250
Joseph Morrison. . 311,312,313 3.j.s
Joseph Morrison . . 2S0, 200, 203,
204, 296, 2111, 30<1, .illl, 302, 303,
304, 300, 307, 300, 310, part in
5-10 4,OS8
John Eyert . . 201, 305, pt in 5-10 442
T. 5 s.
Surveys. Acrs
John Edgar 353, 354, 355 404
William Mcintosh . 322 61
Joseph Morrison. . 318,320,321,
323, 324, 326, .'.20, 327 OSO
John Evert 288, 317, 034 292
Pierre Roquette . . 317, 3.50, C69 191
Joseph Tyon .... 348, 070, 072 785
Joseph Hennet . . 350, 004, 005, 700 981
Gabriel Dodier . . . 351, 352 155
Jean Petit 000 128
Bene Grude 008, 609 213
10 W.
William
207,
F. Pi
pan
His.
f.Nulli.
. 314, pt in 5 10 .550
. 7C0, pt in 4-11 400
Hall . . . . 4S8 400
and surveys 482, 03i;, part in4-U son
Jesse Kuyner. . . 708, pt in 4-11 400
First Fntnj, Si]tl. 4, 1815.
J, ,t W, Wiiiliv , . X E of Mr 19 l.-,2
lli^ .if N. lliill l.ail 111 MT ]'.. .ill 2S3
, lluUl
—10 w.
Monsieur Deneger .
671 128
Alexander McXabb .
633 113
Pierre Menard . . .
035 374
William Murr.ay . .
317
323 22
George Atchison . .
402
40.i 80O
Joseph Hagan ....
490
491 3|i0
Antoin Boisnienue .
734 714
IchabodCamp ....
009 400
Daniel Shultz ....
607 40U
Total
7,131
T. 1 S. 11 \V.
Henry O'Harra . 5S8, 598, 509, 097 1,000
Caldwell Cairns . . 409 100
William Trumbull, 42:!, pt in 1-10 800
Leonard Harness . 410 400
David Waddle ... 408 314
Adam Stroud . . . 715,pt in2-Il 303
Benjamin Kogers . 5lW.pt in 2-11 loo
First Fiitri,, .W<iT/l, 1S14.
Adelaide Perry, fr. part of sec. 11 510
K.lmii.
li.ni.l
Joliu Pi
Porter . parts of see. i:
Trumbull, part of seel
J .lai-riitt , part of sec. 2;
•.'■iinl, partof sec. 24, 2:
I ii\ IV. part of sec. 2i
UK li. part of sec. 3:
iiu - fr. part of sec. 33,3;
Total .
T. 2 s. — 11 w.
/■'irs( Flit y, Sept. 17, 1.S14.
John Dimpsey . . . frar-l. uf 2
John Sheehan . . . parts of 1
Jai'oli Glover . . parts of I & 29
W. .1, r.i.gers pans of 1
.1 1 I'rilii.jr . . . pans of 3
Ilu\ ill Ci.x parts c.f 3
Hrir-.il li. ,t .1, I:. 111].. |.;.n- .if 4
W. II II Illl-.... |..Mls ..| s ,^ 17
E. Il.-iiist. li ,v \ M.N.iir, |.l- .|
Willhim 51.1111-. .11 . I'liiis .if .1
. . parts of
. . parts of
on, parts of
, parts 15, 22, 23
. . section 16
ii-,pts 17,20,21
10. 21,
lan
s n
28
irts
..r
31
pai
ts
t 30
S Ul
34
A- 35
-11 w.
John K.Igar
J. W.irlev, «
T. 4 S. — 11 w.
flialli
Al.-x.i
Willi.
Philip li.iil.-i-
William L.iiK
Ueuben Mille
The grand ag;rregate of the number of acres of hiiid of
Monroe in pos.<essioii of individual owners as early a.< 1819,
when Illinois had become a state, was not less than 72,000
acres, nearly one-third of the present area of the county.
The uncertainty as to the locution of those numerous claims
had prevented settlers from purchasing the lands ou which
they had squatted, and the reader will observe that the pro-
cess of entering government lands commenced in all town-
ships pretty much at the same time. The land entries be-
tween the years 1818 and 183G were by no means numerous,
and the transactions in the real estate market but few.
EARLY TRANSFERS OF REAL ESTATE.
The oldest deed on record was made in 1708, but not
recorded until 1817. It is here introduced at length, to wit :
HfSTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
137
Benjamio Ogle to James Garrctsoii.
This indenture made this twenty fourth day of August
1798, between Benjamin Ogle in Cahokia township in the
Illinois territory, militia man and doing duty as such on the
first <lay of August 1790, of the one part, and James Garret-
son, of the other part, witnesseth that the said Benjamin Ogle
as a militia man being entitled to one iiuudred acres of land
by the sixth section of an act of congress, entitled an act for
granting land^ to the habitants and settlers at Vincennes
and the Illinois country in the territory northwest of the
Ohio and for confirming them in their possession, on hia
part for and in consideration of the sura of eighty dollars to
him in hand paid by the said James Garretson, the receipt
whereof he doeth hereby acknowledge, hath gis'en, grante<l,
bargained, sold, released, conveyed and confirmed and by
these presents doth give, grant, bargain, sell, release, convey
and confirm unto the said James Garretson his heirs and
assigns forever, all his right, title, claims, interest and de-
mand of, in and to the said one hundred acres of land which
before the ensealing and delivering of this indenture the said
Benjamin Ogle might rightfully claim by, through and
under the said act of congress as aforesaid unto the said
James Garretson his heirs and assigns, and the said Benja-
min Ogle for himself his heirs, executors and administrators
doth covenant and agree to and with the said James Garret-
son his heirs, executors, administrators and assigns the said
militia right of one hundred acres of land together with all
the appurtenances against the lawful claim or demand of any
person or persons whatsoever unto the said James Garretson
his heirs and assigns he the said Benjamin Ogle his heirs
and will forever warrant and defend by these presents. In
testimony of which the said Benjamin Ogle hath hereunto
subscribed his name and affixed his seal the day and year
first above written. *****
Bexjamix Ogle. Jseal.J
Witness. — James Lemen, J. P. *****
There were a few more conveyances prior to the county or-
ganization. The first sale of town lots took place in 1810
when one Jacob A. Boj'es, a resident of Harrisonville and
its founder, sold to William Middleton of Louisiana territory
lots number 1U7 and 108 in the town of Harrisonville for
one hundred and fifty dollars, August l<tth, 1810. These
lots lay between Alexander and McRobert's Streets, front-
ing on Walnut. Sales became more numerous after the or-
ganization of the county. David Cox sold eighty acres lying
in the northwest fractional quarter of section No. 3, town-
ship 2 south, range 11 west, at S-.OO per acre, June 4th, 1816.
Six thousand dollars would hardly pay for these 80 acres
to day.
Isabella Bond sold an unlocated but confirmed claim of
four hundred acres, a so called improvement right, to Abra-
ham Amos for S5 0.00, July 6th 1816. These improve-
ment rights were sold in the years from 1793 to 1798 for
from twenty to sixty dollars each.
A tract of land of one hundred acres, the northeast frac-
tional quarter of section 27 in town 3-11 was sold by Prince
Bryant to Andey Kinney, May 14th, 1816, for fifty dollars.
18
This tract is now owned by D. T. Tripp, and is considered
to be worth S7000. John Violeny, a constable of Eagle
township, sold lots oo, .j6 and 80 in Harrisonville, the pro-
perty of one Abijah Ward, who had ab.sconded to John Mc-
Chire for eighteen dollars, May l-nh, 1816.
John Mitchell conveyed a tract of land in the American
Bottom — no description — containing 100 acres to Alexander
Wells to secure the payment of a loan of two hundred dollars
Sept. 8, 181.^, the deed was placed on record Sept. 6th, 1810.
Nicholas Jarrot of the county of St. Clair sold 160 acres, a
part of improvement claim No. 2682 certified to Jean Baptist
Parant, to Andrew Kinney for 100 dollars, August 8ih, 1816.
Heirs of Henry O'Hara, by commissioners sold to John
Sullivan claim No. 766, survey .")88, containing 400 acres,
also claims 76.S and 764 containing 200 acres, all located iu
Round Prairie for 81.500, Sept 6th, 1816.
These tracts are now in the possession of J. C. Cairns,
judge E. P. Slate, August Tuntze, Michael Stumpf, Herman
Beckerle, John Breisen's widow, John Stephan and others,
and represent a cash value of at least S43,000. Henry
Hays, adm. of the estate of W. L. Smith deceased, sold to
Samuel J. Kinkead 250 acres, the improvement right of
James Scott, claim 820 for 8127, Sept. 7th, 1816.
The transactions mentioned above may .suffice to show
what price the real estate in the county commanded at the
time of its organization, to wit from 50 cts. to 2i dollars
per acre
The sale of real estate in the first decade of the county,
1816 to 1826, amounted in the aggregate to 8327.645, prices
ranging between 50 cts. and 810,00 per acre. The highest
price was paid in 1820 the lowest in 1816; prices advanced
rapidly from 1818 to 1820, when a decline is perceptible, to
wit. to 84.00 in 1822 — prices recovered somewhat in 1824
and reached 87.00 and 88.00 in 1825. The transactions in
the real estate market were as follows:
In 1816 they amounted to $14.0:t» In 1822 they amounted to 513.050
1817
1818
1819
1820
1821
33.785
' 1823
«.345
' 1824
93.8U
' 1825
37.249 1
18.721 ■
22.247
22.718
27.o:t7
first road petitions and names of monroe county
pioneers.
May 23, 1816.
The undersigned petitioners, citizens of Monroe countyi
humbly sheweth
Whereas, a new High Way or common road from Harri-
son to Andey Kinney's Mill is greatly needed, said road to
pass along on the most convenient ground from Harrison to
the lane dividing between Squire Jameson and Mr Thomp.
son's place, thence through said lane to the county road to
the residence of Hugh Ralston, from thence up Ryan's
creek on the best ground for which your petitioners therefore
pray that your honors will take such measures concerning
the premises as to you seemeth meet — and your petitioners
as in duty bound will ever pray.
William Marney, Hugh Ralston, Mo.ses Jameson, John
Conn, Elisha Exley, (Axley) Daniel Hull, Joseph Worley,
John Winters, Alice Chalffin, James Hull, Michael Doe,
138
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Amos Cha]ffin, Daniel Rapert, Samuel Turner, James Heu-
der^on, John James, Edward Crouch, Timothy Coats, John
McClure, John Tolen, Reuben Bradley, Isaiah Levens, Ed-
ward Cox, Andey Kinney, Francis Osborn, John Moore, Ed-
ward Claris, John Hagan, William Worley, William Chance,
Philip Rader, Daniel Star, Thomas James, William Hagan
and Thomas Lusby.*
The older residents of the county reniember well the ec"
centricities of William Lemen, who at one time contrived
to lodge the honorable judge, E. P. Rogers, merchant at
Peter's town, in a hogshead filled with eggs. Rogers, stand-
ing up to his waitt within his eggs, screamed out, you have
to pay for these eggs, you have to pay for them. " Cer-
tainly," said Lemen, ''count them out, sir; count them
out." During the Black Hawk war he served as a volun-
teer. The following practical joke on Bill Evert, also from
Monroe, is credited to Lemen. Evert was known to be as
great a coward as braggadocio. Lemen strolling away from
camp found a dead (or as they called them then a good
Indi. n. He wrapped a blanket around the corpse and
Btood it up against a tree. Returning to camp, he told
Evert that he had seen Invert's missing horse about a mile
off, on a little prairie. Evert of course, rushed out and
coming near tlie tree mentioned, saw the dead Lidian. He
discharged his rifle and ran back to camp, telling the men
that he had met a number of Lidians and was sure to have
burned a hole through the blanket of one of them, etc. He
was laughed out of camp for wasting his ammunition on an
Indian who had been dead for a week or longer.
Lemen's famous court-martial trial for playing horse and
scaring at a stump is known to ail.
In October, 18U), the following residents of the American
Bottom petitioned for a road from Daniel Vaughan's and
John Hewitts saw mill to the old "Stroud" place, to wit :
John Hewitt, Daniel Vaughan, James Fowler, Seth Con"
verse, Edward and David Cox, John Primm, Ira Hewitt'
James Whaley, William B. Whaley, William Whaley, S.
Bond (ihegcvunor (?) who then livedat or mar Moredcck
lake), John Cooper, Jesse W. Cooper, William Alexander
and Thomas O'Connor.
In February, l!S17, John Cooper, Timothy Coates, Avin-
ton Sherrill, Hugh Ralston, J. W Cooper, John McClure,
William Arundel, Daniel Hull, Zopher William, John
* Some of William blarney's descendants are still living in the r-niinty, lor
inst.-xnce, ttie iJilch f:\miiy. The Marueys were from ICentiicky. .Closes Janie.
son was the first justice of the peace in the county. Histomi stone «as in Uler
days utilir.-d by one— a certain well-known foreign horn citizen— as a part floor
of a baking oven. He was indicted for this otfense, but escaped punishment ;
subsequently this same individual, indicted for stealing liogs, and sentenced to
penitentiary for oue year. A.xley's descendants are still residents of the county-
John Winters' tombstone can still be seen in the cenielory of the " Grant M.'cl-
ng House "—so called because situated on tlie famous Renault Grant. The
ChatHns and among them the Horines are known residents of the county.
JohnJames subsequently hel.i many county oftices; liis descendants, and those
of his brother, James A. James, are prominent citizens of the c unly. The
Tolins* family was very prolihc. Reuben Bradley lived about three miles
north of Harrison, but the family in the county is not represented at present-
AndeyKinney hadawater powermlil atwliat is now called Monroe City. There
are no descendants now found in the county, they having moved north. The
Mooresare moree.xtensively mentioned in the chapter on pioneers. The Clarks
are still represented in the county ; they hail from Virginia. Daniel Starr, who
used to live on the Frick place, removed to Texas. William Lem-n belonged
to the oldest American settlers in Illinois. They are mentioned in the chapter
on pioneers.
Tolin, Josiah Lemen, Cartwood, Abram Bunker and
Joshua Craig, petitioned the court for a road, beginning at
the Hugh Ralston " plantation '' up Ryan's (now Monroe)
creek, thence up Sherrill's branch to the New Design road,
thence to the " Beaver ponds," there dividing, thence ' along
the right-hand fork to Judge Lemen's plantation, there
falling into the Horse-prairie road leading to the Wideman's
and ]Manville's ferry on the Kaskaskia, the other fork from
the Beaver ponds to the left, passing on by Michael Miller's
to the ■' fountain," there falling into the road that leads from
New Design to Belleville.
First road in Mitchie township. The petitioner.=, Alexan
der McNabb, Joseph Worley, Seth Chalffin, Joseph Wilson,
Raphael Drury, Thomas McRoberts, and others, state un-
der date of April 10, 1S17. that a permanent public road
through Mitchie township is greatly wanted. This road is
to start from Hugh Ralston's plautation — ^which, by the way,
seems to have been the centre of population at that time —
along the bluffs, through the plantations of Isaiah Levens
and James Henderson, to a road estal)lished by the county
court of R-aiidolph county, thence to the plantation of Jo-
seph Worley. thence to Mill creek, where a bridge is to be
erected, thence through the prairie so as to leave the plan-
tation of the widow Fisher on the right hand, thence along
the so called middle road to the county line. In December,
1818, a road was opened from J. 'SI- Wilson's ferry landing
on the Mississippi through Yankee prairie to Horse-prairie-
Another road from Harrison through the American Bottom
to Wilson's ferry was ordered to be opened August -, 1819.
Among the petitioners are to be found the following names
not heretofore mentioned : Andrew Hilton, James 8. Beau-
raond, Robert Latty, John Grate, Johu Warnock. William
Mcintosh, Charles Haldeman, R. Martin, John Ford, Prince
Bryant, George Wallis, Elijah Talbott. Edward Garrick
George Forquer, William Bryant. John ^l. Davis, John
Brimberg, (a German > Francis Baldwin and J. ^Mitchell.
The county was divided into the following road districts,
Junes, 1817.
No. 1. To commence on the Kaskaskia rnail at the southern
boundary of Harrison township, and run north to what is
called Robbin's place, or otherwise to a large pecan tree near
said farm, with Thomas James as supervisor.
No. 2. To contmence north at the Mitchie towasliip line
and run south to the southern boundary line of the rnuiity,
with William Worley as supervisor.
No. o. To commence south at Robbin's |)lace, or the Pecan
tree, and run north to the north end of the county bridge
across Eagle creek, with George Atchinson as supervisor.
No 4. To commence south at the north eml of the county
bridge across Eagle creek, a' d run from thence north to the
northern boundary line of the county, with Thomas Harrison
as supervisor.
No. 5'. To begin at the south line of the county and run
north to the lane between the fields of Michael Miller and
Felix Clark, with George M. Mourtry as supervisor.
No. 6. To commence south at said line and run north to
the boundary line of the county, with William Forquer as
supervisor.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
139
EARLY JUSTICES OF THE PEACE,
Moses Jameson, Alexander Jameson, Thomas Brownfield;
J. W. Cooper, J. M Moore, Henry C. Miziier. John Roach,
John Scott, Prince Bryant, John James, Seth Converse,
John Divers, John Prim, Daniel Hull, Joseph Worley,
Thomas M. Hamilton, and Alexander McNabb.
From a record of stock marks of 1816 to 1818 we are
enabled to give to the reader the names of all farmers of the
counv owning stock. These names have been arranged in
alphabetical, but not chronological order, to wit:
Elisha Axley, William Alexander, Abraham Amos,
Ichabod Badgley, Jacob Borer, John Burk, Seth Chalfin,
Edward Crouch, Abram Clark, William Chalfin, Caldwell
Cairns, Edward Clark, Jacob Clark, Adam Clover, John
Clover, John Cooper, Moses Clawson, Ebenezer Clawson,
Amos Chalfin, Joshua Carey, David Cox, Jonathan Church,
James Cleiideuin, Daniel Converse, Robert C.)lman, Wil-
liam Chance, Felix Clark, John Clark, John Coop, Erapson
B. Cantril, John Cirr, W. C. Bryant, Raphael Drury,
Michael Dace, David Ditch, G W. Ditch, William Ditch,
Geo. W. Davis, Elijah Davis, James Davis, (called the
pauper), Barnett Ertis, John Eagan, George Estes, Jacob
Eastwood, Joseph Evans, Abraham Eastwood, Churchill
Fulsher, William Farquer, Gram Fisher, Jacob Fultz, Jere-
miah Gilman, James Garrison, John Grate, Edward Gavish,
Euos L. Gaylord, William Goldsmith, Jake Garritson>
William G. Goforth Joseph Hogan, Daniel Hull, P. Hogan,
James Henderson, William Howard, Peter Holderaann,
John Hogan, Daniel Hilton, Robert Haskins, John Haskins,
Joseph Haskins, Redding B. Herring, Moses Haskins, Chris-
tian Holdemann,Ad. Hussy, Sylvauus Harlow, Daniel Heely,
John M. Hull, Mathias Harrison, Alexander Jameson,
Ishraal Willard, John James, Thomas James, Henry Iraan,
Christopher Iraan. Nathan Johnston, Samuel J. Kiukead,
Audey Kinney, G. W. Kingsley, William ( Hills ) Lemeu,
Gerardus Locke, Thomas Lusby, William Lemeu, Moses
Locke, Samuel Locke, .Arnold Livers, David Lenisee, John
McClure, John Moredock, Reuben Miller, John (Meyer)
Myars, Thomas Marrs, John Mitchell, Benjamin Marney,
John Miller, (bar keeper, 1817), Jacob McDavid, Alexander
McNabb, Milton J. Moore, Samuel Miller, Benjamin Mas-
terson, Enoch Moore, .fames B. Moore, C. H. Mizner, John
Modglin Stephen W. Miles, James Moore, John Moore,
Milton J. Moore 2nd, James B. Moore ?nd, Jacob Neft", John
Neff, Abrara NefT, James Nelson, Henry Neff, Edward New-
sham, Thomas O'Connor, Charles Owens, Adams Payne,
David Petit, Andrew Porter, Luke Patterson, Jacob Pal-
meier (German), William Robins, James Robins, Philip
Rader, John Roach, John Robins, John Ryan, Hugh Ral-
ston, Daniel Raper, .James Roberts, Daniel Rapert, James
M. Robinson, John Rogers, Daniel Ramer, Peter Rogers,
Solomon Shook, Daniel Shook, John Summers, Edward
Smith, Jehu Scott, Daniel Sink, Peter Stroud, Solomon
Stong, Adam Smith, Junies R. Shepherd, Nehemias Starr,
Isaac W. Starr, William Steel, James Stirrett, Jonathan
Shepherd, Elijah Talbert, Jacob Trout, James Taylor, Thom-
aa Thaylor, Jewett Varnum, Alexander Wells, Edward
Welch, George Wallis, John Werley, Joseph Werley, John
M. Wilson, J. Rodgers William, Elisha Westbrook, B.
Baker Whaley, Henry Wardman, Z )pher Williams, John D.
Whiteside, Otho Wilson, William Wilson, D.ivid Whiteside,
Je.sse Weswell, Hiram Whiteside, John Woodrome, John
Whiteside, J. P. Waddle, Moses Williams, William Walker,
David Yates, Joseph I. Young
We introduce next a list of
EAHl.Y MARRIAtiES.
The oldest certificate of marriage is dated September 28,
1810. The happy couple, to wit: William Calhoon and
Nancy Quigley, had obtained their proper license from the
clerk of Monroe county, Illinois, on the 20th of August pre-
ceding, and were joined in the holy bands of wedlock,
according to the rules of the Baptist Church, by James
Garretson. This was the only marriage in the county
in 1816. The next wedding took place almost a year
later, August 14, 1817, when Abraham Amos, M. P.
(missionary preacher), solemnized the rites of matrimony
between William F. Roberts and Elizabeth Fonjuer ; and
also Thomas Porter and Nina Wheeler. The marriage
ceremony between John Warnock and MLss .Jane McClure
was performed by Salmon Giddings, an ordained clergy-
man. William Griflen and Polly Hendricks were lawfully
married by Abram Amos, M. P., Sept. 4, 1817. Alexander
Jameson, a justice of the peace, performed the marriage
ceremony for Ira Scovel and Polly Chrisley on the 21st of
December, 1817. John Henson and Sarah Davis were
joined in the holy state of matrimony by J. Milton Moore,
justice of the peace, on the 30lh of October, 1817 ; and
Squire Alexander Jameson did a similar act of kindness to
Joseph Andrew and Katharine Wiley Oct. 28, 1817 ; also
for John McDavid and Betsey Fisher on the 1.5th of Sept'r
1817 ; and, two days later, for Reuben Bradley and Nancy
Stephens.
Jesse W. Cooper, justice of the p ace, on the tJth of Au-
gust, 1817, was addressed by William Alexander, C. C. 0.
M. C, as follows : Whereas there is a marriage shortly to be
solemnized between Elisha Fowler, of the county of Monroe
and territory of Illinois, and Mary Quigley, of the same
county and territory ; and the said Elisha Fowler having
legally proven the requisitions required of him according to
law, this is therefore to license and permit you to join to-
gether in the holy state of matrimony said parties, agreeable
to the rites and ceremonies of your church; and for so doing
this shall be your sufficient warrant. Given under my hand
at my office at Harrisonville, Monroe county, this tith day
of August, 1817, and of the Independence the forty-second.
The Squire tied the knot on Sunday, August 10, 1.S17, ac-
cording to law, as he says.
A proclamation and warrant similarly composed and
worded, with the addition of the solemn a.ssertion that the
lady had consented and entered into security as the law
directs, authorized the marriage of Daniel Vaughn and
Rody Huit ; and Squire Cooper comically reporis that the
"above named " were lawfully married according to law.
The year 1817 was prolific in its crop of marriages, there
140
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
having been eleven recorded in the county. The records of
1818 contain the following:
Ellis Chalfin and Rebecca Hull, Jan. 0, by Alexander Jameson, J. P.
William Riggs and Sarah Brownfleld, .4pril 7, by Thomas Browufield, J. P.
Thomas Vanmater and Delilah Cain, Feb. 15, by Abraham Amos, M. P.
William Rodgers and Sarah Probins, Aug. 18. by J. W. Cooper, J. P.
Joseph Hogan and Eliz.^beth Liycount, Aig. 7, by Jesse W. Cooper, J. P.
Thoma.s Johnston and Eache Cain, Nov. 29, by James Garretsoii, M. G.
The year 181S did not as well as 1817.
1819.
Dennis Dace and Massey Robins, Jan. 2, by James Garretson, M. G.
Jess Boggs and Polly Wilson, Jan. 21. by Jesse W. Cooper, J. P.
William Brown and Betsey Barney, Jan. 2.3. by John Scott, J. P.
William Anderson and Sally Valentine, alios SiUy Miller, January 23, by John
Scott, J. P.
Burdett Green and Rebecca Parker, Jan. 31, by James Garretson, M. G.
Samuel Lock and Charily Steph- ns, April 21, by John Scott, J. P.
Moses Divers and Phcebe Jones, July 15, by Henry C. Mizner.
Moses Lock and Sally Stirrel, June 12, by Henry C. Mizner, J. P.
James McDaniel and Elizabeth Modglin, Aug 6th, by J. Milton Moore, J. P.
Jesse Miller and Elizabeth Modglin, Aug. 29, by J. Milton Moore, J. P.
Elijah Axley .ind Elizabeth Everman, Aug. 26, by Th. Browntield, J. P.
William D. Brightman and Sophia Devoe, Aug. 20, by T. M. Hamilton, J. P.
John B. Wiser and Catharine Fry, late wife of Joseph Fry, legally divorced by
an order of the Circuit Court of Monroe county, obtained license to get
married ; but the certificate of marriage is not on file nor recorded.
Nimrod Triplet and Franky Hutson, Nov. 18, by John Divers, J. P.
Reuben Gon and Sarah Elliot, Dec. 20, by Henry C. Mizner, J. P.
Among the marriages solemnized in Monroe county at an
early day, that of Shadrach Bond should here be mentioned.
The license was issued on the 16lh of June, 18'23, and worded
as follows :
State of Illinois, Monroe county, ss
The people of the State of Illinois, to all to whom these
prefents fhall come greeting : Know ye that a license is
hereby granted to any licensed minister of the Gospel, any
justice of the peace, county commissioner, or any other per-
son legally authorized, to join together in the holy state of
matrimony Shadrach Bond and Ann Todd, both of the
county aforesaid, and for so doing this shall be a sufficient
warrant.
In witness whereof, I, Daniel Converse, deputy clerk for
Samuel McRoberts, clerk of the county commissioners' court
for Monroe county, have hereunto set my hand and seal
(there being no public seal provided), this 1 6th day of June,
in the year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and
twenty-three.
Daniel Converse, Dep'y Clerk.
The marriage was solemnized about ten days later, as will
appear from the following certiticate:
State of Illinois, Monroe (»unty, s«
This may certify that on the twenty-sixth day of June,
1823, by virtue of a license from the clerk of the cuunty
commissioners' court of Monroe county, I joined together in
the holy bonds of matrimony Shadrach Bond* and Ann
Todd. Witness my hand and seal, June 27, 1823.
Henry C. Mizner, J. P.
* This Shadrach Bond cannot have been the "Governor," who '
Nov. 27, 181(1, in Nashville, Tennessee, to Miss Achsah Bond (an own cousin),
who survived the Governoi- and died in Kaskai-kia, Feb. 29, 1844, as stated to
the writer by Dr. B. N. Bond, of Slanberry, Mo., only surviving son of the Gov-
ernor. The doctor al.so Informs us that Daniel D. Smith and Miss Todd were
married at the Governor's house, which fact was ascertained from a memoran-
dum in the family Bible, now in his possession.
TOWNS AND VILLAGES PRIOR TO 1820.
The ancient village of St. Philip has been mentioned in
the preceding sketch of the Renault Grant. Harrimmille,
or Carthage, is frequently mentioned in the oldest American
records of Kaskaskia, where it is sometimes called t'^e Ameri-
can " block house" or "fort.' A plat of the town of "Car-
thage " was filed for record on the 20th of July, 1816,
signed James B. Edwards, deputy recorder of Monroe
county. The town was located on the Mis-issippi river, in
section 18, town 3—11 It contained 56 blocks of 4 lots
each. The streets, 14 in number, crossed each other at
right angles. Water, Second, Third, Walnut, Sycamore,
Broad and Mulberry streets ran parallel with the river.
The cross streets, commencing in the south, were named
Main, Market, Moore, Lemen, Alexander, McRoberts and
McClure streets. The public square was located in the
southeastern part of the town, between Broad and Mul-
berry and Main and Market streets. A donation to the
county was made by the firm of McKnight & Brady, of St.
Louis, on the 19th of July, 1816 This donation com-
prised block 47 of the town of Carthage and four outlots,
adjoining the town in the east, containing about 20 acres
in the aggregate. The name of " Harrisonville" is easily
accounted for, as the town was laid out during the adminis-
tration of the first territorial governor of the Indiana terri-
tory, of which, until 1809, Illinois formed a part. But why
was the town named Carthage? Probably in honor of Mrs.
Dido, wife of William Atchison, who was in possession of a
tract of land containing 4U0 acres, known as Claim 1407,
Survey .561, located in the immediate vicinity of the town,
at the time of the organization of the county. William and
Dido sold this tract to William Morrison, November 4,
l.sl«, for §3000— the highest price paid for lands in those
days. It is to be hoped that our Dido led a more fortunate
life than her namesake, the queen of ancient Carthage. At
any rate we found no account of a faithless and heartless
uEneas, who, after playing shepherd with her in the adja-
cent caves, could have caused her to ascend a funeral pile,
and to pierce her loving heart with an old cavalry sabre.
Waterloo was named and laid out by George Forquer* and
Daniel P. Cook on section 25, town 2, south 10 in the be-
ginning of 1818. A survey of the site was made by Enoch
Moore, December 18, 1818.
Town lots had been sold by Forqutr and Conk as early as
April, 1818. Among the purchasers of these lots we found
the names of James Smith, James Rankin, William How-
ard, Dennis Dace, Michael Dace, John Garretson, Joseph
Beaird, William Beaird, John Reynolds, Enoch Moore,
Peter Prim, Guy Morrison, John Ryan, J. H. Lambert,
Jesse W. Cooper and James Moore.
Bridgewater, laid out by George Forquer, Daniel P. Cook
and John James, was located south of Eagle creek, at its
confluence with the Mississippi. It contained 19 blocks of
from 6 to 12 lots each. The public square was composed
*t;eorge Forquer was :i man of great inHuence. He occupied various respon-
sible poi-i ions in the county. In later years he removed to Sangamon county,
which he represented iu the State Senate in 1834 and 18.1.-.. He gave the im-
petus to the great internal improvement and railroad fever, which plunged
the State into a debt of a' out fourteen millions of dollars.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
141
of 8 lots, two each of blocks 2, 3, 8 and 9, being of oblong
form, '2(>0 by 344 feet, and containing an area of 89.440
i-quare feet. Samuel Mooney. John Ford, Freeman Kelly,
Hamilton .Smith, David Levisse, James R. Sheppard and
Henry C. Mizner were the first purchasers of lots.
We return now to the government of the county. The
second county board. 1^*17 to 1818, consisted of Caldwell
Cairn?. James Lemen and James McRoberts. The labors
of this board were confined to opening a few roads, granting
of licens-es and permitting Ichabod Valentine to erect mill"
dams on Eagle creek. The court had a settlement with
John Moore, asse.'sor and treasurer, and also with James K.
Moore, sheriff. It does not appear what the revenue had
amounted to, but there were small balances, to wit: 833.02*
and S20.)S.") against the officers. The cost of the assessment
was stated to have been §12.00 exactly.
The act of the legislature, January 12, 1818, established
the so-called justices' courts, which were intrusted with the
county government. This system continued in force until
June 7, l><l!t.
The first court of this kind was held en the 20th April,
1818, Justices Jesse W. Cooper. Prince Bryant, J. Milton
Moore, Alexander Jameson. John Scott, James Whaley and
William Chalfin attending. The court was held in the
house of Thomas Jame.s. A number of ^Nimrods appeared
to claim the lawful rewards for killing wolves, to wit, 82 00
for each scalp. These Nimrods were Ellis Chalfin, Warner
Dace, John Clover, Joseph Harniss, William Quigley,
Thomas Nelson and James McDonald. James Henderson,
Adam Smith and Daniel C. Link were licensed to keep
taverns, and John M. Wilson to run a ferry from his
"house" across the Mississippi, for which he had to pay
$3 00.
Thomas O'Conner contracted for making the county
assessment, for and in consideration of which he was to be
paid S21.0O.
The necessity of building a jail had now become apparent,
and a contract was entered into with Samuel J. Kinkead on
the 18th of April. 1.S18.
In order to give the present generation an idea of what a
dungeon of those days consisted, we introduce below the
contract at length.
John James was appointed to superintend the building of
the jail, which seems to have been completed June 9, 1819.
CONTKACT FOR FIRST PUBLIC BUILDING IN MONROE COUNTY.
A contract is hereby made with Samuel J. Kinkead to
build a jail on the public square in the town of Harrisonville,
donated to the county for the purpose of having public
buildings thereon erected by the present proprietors of said
town, the jail is to be of the following descriptions, viz. :
To be sixteen feet square in the clepr, the foundation to
be of stone laid in lime mortar, three feet thick and two feet
high, the jail to be built of " hughen " timber one foot scjuare
and two tier, each to be dovetailed so as to lock at each
corner ; timber of the same kind and size to be set in per-
pendicularly between the in- and outer tier, so as to touch ;
to be one story high and eight feet in the clear, all of the
timber to be oak, except the two inside tiers, the upper tier
of the lower floor and the lower tier of the upper one maybe
of cotton wood, which is used in building the said jail, the.
corners of said jail are to be boxed with good oak plank, the
lower floor to be " hughen" timber, one foot square jointed
and to be double, the upper tier of timber to " lay " across
the under. The floor overhead to be of light materials and
made in like manner with the lower one. A double door to
be made of two inck oak plank, two feet nine inches wide to
be riveted ; and the door is to be hung by. hooks firmly put
into the logs, and it is to be secured by a good substantial
lock : there are to be two windows, two feet by eight inches,
with six iron bars, one inch square across each window, to
be fastened into the logs 8 inches di-ep, at each end, and one
perpendicular iron bar one inch square on the outside in the
centre of each window, al*o to extend eight inches into the
logs at each end. four plates to be well pinned down with
two inch pins, gable ends to be made of inch oak plank, to
be covered with a good and sufficient roof of rafters, being
well spiked to the plates, to be well sheeted and covered with
oak or walnut shingles, laid six inches to the weather, the
shingles to be of i of an inch thick and well proportioned,
the "hole'' (nomen et omen) to be completed in a workman-
like manner by the first day of December, 1818, for the con-
sideration of one thousand and four dollars current money,
to be paid at the county treasury, by order of the justices
court and their successors in office, as follows : two hundred
dollars in advance and the balance when the building afore-
said shall be completed in manner aforesaid, to the satisfac-
tion of this court and their successors in office. And it is
further ordered that the said Samuel J. Kinkead give bond
and security in the sum of two thousand and eight dollars
to the sitting justices of this court and their successors in
office for the faithful performance of the foregoing contract
Meanwhile Illinois had made preparation to be admitted
as a sovereign state into the Union and a constitutional con-
vention had been elected, and its members assembled at
Kaskaskia in July, 1818, and having completed their labors
adjourned August 2ti, 1818.
Monroe county was repr.sented by Caldwell Cairns and
Enoch Moore, both pioneers of the county. Cairns was a
member of the county board during the first years of the
county's existence, and in later years judge of probate.
Moore also filled various official positions in the county, both
gentlemen were exemplary officers.
The first county commissioners' omrt since the admission
of Illinois as a State convened at Harrisonville, on the 7th
of June, 1819 The court was composed of the Honorables
Caldwell Cairns, Joseph A Beaird and James McRoberts.
"gentlemen," as Samuel McRoberts, the clerk, stated,
"elected and qualified."
The townships of territorial times were now converted into
election precincts without any change in the territory.
Eagle township commenced as heretofore in the southwest,
where the "tornado" had crossed the Mississippi, and its
elections were to be held at the house of Joseph Hogan.
Belie Fountaine, poll at the tavern of David Ditch, in
Waterloo.
142
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Harrison and Mitchic, poll at the court room iu the house
of Thomas James, at Harrisonville. Mitchie became an
election precinct on the 8th of June, 1824, with poll at the
house of Seth Chalfin.
The succeeding board was composed of the same persons,
as Caldwell Cairns, the out-going member, was re-elected.
In the third board, George Forquer and John Roach suc-
ceeded Beaird and McRoberts. John Garretson was elected
iu 1823, in place of Forquer, and Nathan Hamilton in 1824,
in place of Roach. John D. Whiteside succeeded Caldwell
Cairns in 182.5. The labors of these boards were confined
to routine business only, as the financial couditiou of the
county was most deplorable ; the county warrants were
worth not more than thirty-five cents per dollar. The board
had some difficulties with the clerk, but it is not known what
had caused them. Mr. McRoberts was ousted and Squire
Mizner appointed in his place. McRoberts brought suit in
the circuit court against the county commissioners, who, on
the 3d of June, 1822. were treated to a mandamus by his
Honor, Judge Thomas Reynolds, to reinstate McRoberts.
The mandamus was obeyed instanter ; whereupon McRob-
erts entered upon the duties of the office to the end of his
terra, September, 1824. Eighteen years later McRoberts
was United States Senator from Illinois.
In 1825 the county seat was permanently established at
Waterloo by a board of commibsiouers appointed by the
legislature of llliuois. The minutes of the county board
contain the following entry in reference to the matter, to wit :
April Term A. d. 182.5.— April 9, 1825.
Nathaniel Hamilton, )
John 1). Whiteside
John Garretson,
County Commissioners.
Report of commissioners appointed by the legislature to
fix the county seat, was laid before the board by Mr. John
D Whiteside, which report is as follows:
We, the commissioners under the act of the 15th of Jan-
uary, 1825, to fix the permanent seat of justice for the county
of Monroe, to wit, Henry Conner, Joseph Conway and
Samuel C. Christy, met at the house of David Ditch, in said
county, on the 1st of April, 1825, and according to law took
an oath btfore John Milton Moore, Esquire, a justice of the
peace in and for said county, to faithfully take into view the
convenience of the people, the situation of the settlements
with an eye to future population and the eligibility of the
place, which oath in writing is herewith returned and made
a part of said return. On the 7th of the same month another
of the commissioners, to wit, John Reynolds, took the same
oath as above taken by the other commissioners and filed as
aforesaid. The other commissioner, to wit, Thomas Rey-
nolds, does not attend. After mature deliberation and
reflection, and taking into view the convenience of the peo-
ple, the situations of the settlements with an eye to future
population and the eligibility of the different sites, we, the
commissioners, do designate and determine upon the public
square in the town of Waterloo, as laid out in the original
plat of said town, made by Enoch Moore, on the 18th De-
cember, 1818, and which plat is made a part of our return
to the county commissioners of said county, to be the seat of
justice for the said county of Monroe
We, the said commissioners, have taken a bond for twenty
acres of land, and another bond for the sum of five hundred
dollars, which two bonds are herewith filed and returned to
the said county commissioners. All lands which have been
given to the county in consideration of the location of the
seat of justice on said public square shall be considered and
taken as part of the town of Waterloo. All of which actings
and proceedings we, the commissioners as aforesaid, do certify
and return to the county commissioners of Monroe county,
9th April, 1825.
H. Conner,
John Reynolds,
Joseph Conway,
Samuel C. Christy,
Affidavits of Commissioners.
Be it remembered, that on the first day of April, in the
year of our Lord one thou.>-and eight hundred and twenty-
five, at the house of David Ditch, in the county of Monroe,
personally appeared before me, J. Milton Moore, a justice
of the peace for the aforesaid county of Monroe, Henry
Ccnner, Samuel C. Christy and Joseph Conway, three of the
commissioners who were appointed by the act of the General
Assembly of the State of Illinois, at the last session, approved
the 15th of January, 1.S25, to fix the permanent seat of jus-
tice for the aforesaid county of Monroe, who, being duly
sworn on the Holy Evangelist of Almighty God, faithfully
to take into view the convenience of the people, the situation
of the settlements with an eye to future population and the
eli"ibility of the place. Given under my hand and seal this
day and date above.
J. MiLTos Moore, J. P. JskalI
A similar affidavit was made on the 7th of April, 1825,
by John Reynolds, who, however, was not sworn on the
Holy Evangelist of Almighty God.
The commissioners were paid the sum of S80 for their
labors of locating the county seat.
The changing of the county seat from Harrisonville to
Waterloo was apparently perfected without trouble or diffi-
culty. The scanty archives of the county were transported
on an ox-cart from town to town. Some residents of Harri-
sonville, however, were very much displeased and the most
valuable property of the county, to wit, the doorlock, and
other irons of the public jail at Harrisonville, was taken
possession of by James A. James, a valiant Harrisonvillian,
who retained them for years, not surrendering until Septem-
ber, 1835, when the county agreed to make him a deed to
the jail grounds at the village. In March, 1831, the court
made an order to sell the old jail. The sheriff' who was to
execute this order, refused to carry it out, for fear that he
would be held " respunsiljle." whereupon the court made
another order, in which the county was held to indemnify
the sheriff, and the purchasers were assured to get possession.
However, there was no sale.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
143
The first term of the county commissioners at Waterloo
was held in David Ditch's tavern, on the (ithot'June, l><'2o;
present — Nathaniel Hamilton, John D. White and John
Garrelson, commissioners ; John James, sherift', and Daniel
Converse, clerk. The tax levy of that year (1824) amounted
to S735.t)"), and the sheriff was summoned to explain why he
had not settled his accounts. John M. Wilson was licensed
to run a ferry across the Jlississippi river to Selma's Cliffs.
He paid S1"J.0() per year for this j.rivilege and was allowed
to make the foUowiug charges: Foot passengers, 2.5 cts.; horse,
371; man and horse, 625 ; cattle, "i.") ; calf, sheep or goat,
12J cents; wagon and team, S2 00 ; dearborn, 81.2") ; cart
and horse, SI 00 ; cart and oxen, SI 2.") ; barrel of spirits or
wine, 2.") cents, and goods at 10 cents per 100 lbs.
David Ditch was licensed to keep tavern at Waterloo,
when upon the court adjourned for one hour, it is presumiil
for the purpose of holding a private conference ou the ques-
tion of prohibition. John Bamber became a member of the
board iu September, \&25, taking the place of John Garret-
son. An order was made iu D. cembtr, lf<2.'), that county
orders issued prior to December, 1)S24, should be received by
the tax gatherer at a discount of Otis per cent. ; those issued
after December, 1824, and prior to June 1st, 1825, at 50
per cent. ; and those subsequent to latter date and prior to
date of order at 25 per cent, discount. Josiah Lemen was
appointed commissioner to lake the census of the county.
J. ililton Moore was employed to draft a plan for a court
house, December 26, 1825; finished this job on the 0th of
Mar. h, l'<2(i, and received §3.00 for his work. It had
talven Mr. Moure months to draft the plan, but it took the
court years to make use of them. The troubles in consequence
of the change iu the county seat were being felt for years
inasmuch as constant impediments were thrown into the
paths of the commissioners. Board succeeded board without
even being able to procure a suitable site for the public
buildings. During this period of uncertainly the county
commissioners had succeeded however to get the county out
of financial ditficulties for coun y warrants were taken at
par, December, 1830. The authorities received donations
of land and lots iu 1<S30 for public buildings.
The following grounds were donated to the county, on
account of locating the seat of justice at Waterloo, to wit:
Five acres of land granted by Enoch .Moore, beginning at
the southwest corner of David Ditch's, aiid on the north-
west corner of Garduer Stone's lots, thence north ten poles
with said Ditch's lot, thence east eight poles, thence north
thirty poles, thence west twenty-two poles, thence south
forty poles, thence east fourteen poles to the place of begin-
ning, which shall be divided by a street running north, sixty
feet wide and iu the same direction.
The founders of Waterloo besides donated the following
town lots, to wit: Nos. 4, 10, 11, 14, 15, 17, 21, 22, 23,24,
26, 27, 31,33, 40, 52, 53, 57, 58, 59, 60, 61 and 64. These
lots were to be sold, and the amount realized was to be
applied towards paying for the erection of a court house.
It seems that these 23 lots were sold for 8224.041.
Finally ou the 26th day of March, 1831, bids were invited
for the contracts for buildiuga brick court house, 30 by 36
feet, and two stories high. W. W. Oraelveny ccntractid
for the brick work for §478.50. He completed his work by
the 7th of December, 1831, when he was paid S4 )8.50, the
county remaining in debt to him to the amount of 840 on
balance of contract, and 81 6. 'JO on account of extra work
done.
Robert Coleman received 8150 for wood work, but failed
to complete the work, which was now entrusted to J. H.
Harrington, who received in pay a certificate "to recover
value of work done from the above contractor."
The court hou.se, although in an unfinished condition, was
occupiid on the 4th of June, 1832.
This court house must have been a very frail building, for
in September, 1834, the court took " notice" that the walls of
the building were "shook " and injured by the boys throwing
balls against them, whereui)nu the clerk was instructed to
draw up a. proc/unidtiun forbidding the throwing of toy-balls
against those walls, and have said proclamation posted, one
at the court house and three more at the most public j)laces
in town. Emery P. Rogers, Solomon Patterson and
Thomas McRoberts are responsible for this " ukas." From
a report of John Rya- , treasurer of the county, it appears
that the revenue of the county for the year 1831 was
81131.02, and that all nf if had been collected and paid into
the treasury ; further that the collector of the revenue of
1830 was in arrears to the amount of 8140 72, that ])ur-
chasers of donation lots were still owing the county 8197.18i,
and that Nancey Ramey, C. F. Fletcher, E. P. Rogers,
David Ditch, John Divers, James A. James and J.ihu M
Wilson had not jiaid their licenses, amounting in the aggre-
gate to 834 00 We have stated repeatedly that the county
authorities had at every occasion exhibited great readiness
to license taverns and grog-shops, and now let it be saiil, iu
honor of the good people of Waterloo, that, as early as 1832,
they raised 826 for the purpose of sinking a well to procure
good drinking water. Who would have thought of such a
thing at Waterloo, and atso early a day ? The county board,
not to be outdone by the villagers of Waterloo, appro-
priated one dollar of the public funds towards purchasiiKj a
Bihh' for use of the county otticials.
We have baeu assiirod thit prLH-iou-i to this purchase
the county officers hiwi been using Chesterfield's Letters to
his .son for their edification, and, from present appearauces,
it may be inferred that this information is correct.
During the term of this board a number of revolutionary
veterans appeared in court for the purpose of identifying
themselves and iu order to get their certificates for pensiou.
From these proceedings and an official statement by the
State authorities, it appears Ebei czer Brown, aged 9)\, ha<l
served in the Virginia Continentals, that his annual pension
amounted to 848.33, and that he lived long enough to draw
8144.09 ; Andrew Hilton, aged 77, of the Maryland Conti-
nentals, drew 830.00 per annum for three years, so did
Michael Miller, of tlu \'irgini:i Cjiitiueutals. James
McRoberts, of the Pennsylvania Continentals, and Joseph
Wright, of the Virginia Continentals, drew each 820 per
annum. The total pensiou money paid to these five veterans
amounted to 8734.98. George Goble, a sergeant, and
141
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
William Howard, private, Third U. S. Infantry, and John
Jeirod, private of the Sixth U. S. Infantry, were invalid
pensioners, and received $96 per annum. They were not
revolutionary soldiers, however.
Solomon Patterson was appointed commissioner and agent
for the disposal of school lands in 1833
A new election precinct was organized in 1834, to be
called
PRAIRIE DU LONG.
It commenced at Thomas Talbott's mills on Prairie du
Long creek, thence direct to the big spring on Horsecreek,
thence southwest to the old ruad from New Design to
Kaskaskia, thence down said road to the Randolph line.
The pull was established at the house of John Morrison,
with Preston Brickey, John Bamber and Zopher Williams,
as judges of election.
In March, 1834, the county's cash box was replenished
by a remittance of $300 00, due to he county, of amounts
realized from sale of Gallatin county saline lauds. This
money was immediately made use of in completing the
court house. Leman French got $2-50 for furni.-hing the
upper rooms, and Daniel Converse was paid 875 for paint
ing the house.
The court house was now completed, about ten years after
Waterloo 4iad become the county seat. It speaks well for
the morals of the people of the county, that the want of a
jail was not felt until in 1835, when the court commenced
to moot the question of building a jail. Afttr four years
of diligent talking and planning, the question was brought
to a vote and decided in favor of building a jail.
In the meantime the county had come into possession of a
large amount of money, her proportional share of the so-
called iinproi'ement fund, mentioned in this chapter under
the heading of Randolph county. John Morrison had been
appointed to collect this fund, to wit $6,900, at Vaudalia,
and he brought it safely to Waterloo on the 5th of Novem-
ber, 1838. There was trouble now, how to save and
preserve so vast an amount of actual money. The county
board, composed of Sidney Todd, William Thrtlfull and
J. M. Wooten, ordered, that Edward Newsham, J. H.
Portle and James B. Needlei should become ihe custodians
of this fund, that each of them should receive $2 300 of the
money in order to loan it out in sums not exceeding $500,
at not less than twelve per cent, annual interest for the
benefit of the county This order, made at the December
term, 1838, was succeeded by another order, of March, 1839,
instructing the fund custodians to at once collect these
funds and to hold them in readiness for further orders.
The jail project had now ripened into shape, contractors,
who had heretofore given the county a wide berth, were now
ready and eager to go to work. The jail contract was let
on the 3rd of June, 1839.
This jail, the first in Waterloo, was erected in 1839.
John Taylor of Belleville, contracted for the building of
it on July 1st, 1839, for $2,400 (This jail stood east of the
present court house). It was to be erected of good sound
limestone, thirty-five feet long and twenty-five feet wide,
two stories high, eight feet each exclusive of the joists.
The walls of the lower story to be two feet thick, and the
second story above the joists twenty-two inches thick, both
stories to be divided by partition walls, eighteen inches
thick of same materials, leaving an entry of ten feet wide,
two outside doors and one door from the entry into each
room, eight windows of fifteen panels, ten by twelve glass,
four of which to be secured with iron grates. The founda-
tion to be of limestone, to be sunk two feet and a half below
the surface of the ground and raised to a level one foot
above the surface of the ground, two feet and a half thick
to extend under the partition, as well as side and end walls,
and all to be laid in good lime and sand mortar. The
dungeon to be lined with timber five inches thick with
suitable doors and grating. The contractors had to furnish
all ^he materials, which were to be of first-rate quality, etc.
The jail was finished on the 9th of September, 1840 Its
construction cost $100 more than contract price. The con-
tractors were paid $1,205 in cash, and $1 295 in twelve per
cent, interest bearing county orders.
The county authorities appropriated a round thousand
dollars of this fund, towards improving the road from
Waterloo to Harrisonvdle, and entrusted Jacob J. Danner
with the disbursement of this amount ; $250 of it were paid
to Henry Hill for grading the road on Tamaroi's hill. The
fund had been gradually reduced to $4,200.34. December
8th, 1840, the fund commissioners surrendered this balance,
all in promissory notes, to the county clerk for safe keeping.
They were paid $508 for their services. (John Morrison
received $45 for making the collection and bringing the
funds from Vandalia to Waterloo). Converse, the clerk,
remained custodian of this fund until December, 1843, when
he turned the papers over to the county treasurer, by whom
they by rights ought to have been kept and preserved from
the beginning. These moneys were subsequently trtated
and disbursed as other public funds belonging to the county.
New Design precinct was organized December 8th, 1840,
with poll at the house of Matthias Harrison. The popula-
tion of the county, u.ore than 1200 in 1816, amounted now
over 4000 souls
The United States census of 1840, furnishes the following
data : The population of Monroe was 4481 in the aggregate;
there were then eleven slaves in this number, two male and
nine female. Twenty-eight of the above number were ovtr
seventy years of age. The occupations of the inhabitanis
of the county, were defined as follows: Agriculture, 979;
commerce, 32; manufactures and trades, 115; navigation
of canals and rivers, 2 ; learned professions and engineers,
13 ; number of pensioners for revolutionary or military
services, . The unfortunates were : One deaf and
dumb, three blind, two insane, all at private charge. There
were five schools in the county attended by 168 pupils.
Three hundred and seven adults were unable to read or
write.
The census of 1840 recites that th? county of Monroe was
engaged in " mining " at that period. A closer examina-
tion into this astounding statement led to an easy explana-
tion. The " mine " was a stone-quarry, in which one man
was employed, who contrived to get out 300 dollars' worth
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
145
of rock (luring 1839. The agricultural wealth consisted in
2289 horses, 8:):52 neat cattle, 3338 sheep, 16,516 hogs and
3668 dollars' worth of property. The agricultural produces
of the year 1839 were reported as follows: 22,012 bushels
of wheat, loO of birley. 21,975 of oats, 350 of rye and
293,462 of corn ; 436 pounds of wax, 10,016 bushels of po-
tatoes, .397 tons of hay, 550 pounds of Hax, 300 pounds of
tobacco, 20 pounds of cotton, 36.59 cords (if wood, 11,844
dollars' worth of milk, butter and cheese, and 1910 dollars'
worth of fruit. Homespun goods, woven on the famous
old loom, represtnted a value of S16,630. Gardening
produced a value of $66 and a "nursery" 8145. Nine
merchants were doing business in the county with a capital
of §31,281. Under the head of "Fisheries" we find that
28 ffalloii-t of oil hm\ been produced in the county. Eight
men had manufactured 920 dollars' worth of bricks. Two
woolen manufactories, employing two persons turned out
goods valued at S550. Three tanneries, worked by 5 hands,
turned out 600 sides of sole leather and 1050 sides of upper
leather. Two saddlery shops did 1800 dollars' worth of
work. Two distilleries manufactured 7000 gallons of whis-
key. The products of 2 flouring, 3 grist aud 4 saw mills,
with a capital of §37,750, giving em|)loyment to 11 persons,
were valued at 820,300.
The proceedings of the county board during the succeed-
ing years are void of interest. As a curiosity, we may
mention here an order of the county board in reference to
the official conduct of James B. Needles, ex-sherifl' of the
county, to wit :
"Ordered that he have a certificate under the seal of the
court, that he has faithfully discharged the duties of the
office of sherifl' of Monroe county for 6 years previous to
September 1, 1840, and punctually settled and paid over all
moneys charged against him as collector of the revenue of
the county."
The settlements of the treasurers had for years exhibited
a balance of funds on hand, and yet there were considerable
amounts of count}' warrants outstanding aud remained un-
redeemed for vaiit of fuuil.<. This contradictory state of
aflTairs finds an explanation in the following report:
" The undersigned having been apjioiuted agent of the
county wi h instructions to convert the iineurrent funds in
the treasury of the county into lawful money, and to use it
in paying off the floating debt jf the county, begs leave to
report, that he realized 8315.37 cash from the sale of 8647
of State bank paper, sold at 44 cts. per dollar, and also of
$99 of the bank of Shawneetown, sold at 33 cts. ; that he
bought county warrants amounting to 860 for 836 cash, and
8372.50 more for 8279.37 (cash) ; that he charged 89 for
his trouble, and further that there were still 820.50 out in
county warrants which could be bought for 815.37* cents in
cash."
Soon after, in 1845, Mr. Morrison, as sherifl' of the county,
filed a report of his revenue collections, which will be intro-
duced here at length, because of its accuracy, and because
of its being the only one spread on the county record since
the organization of the county. The following is the docu-
ment:
19
John Morkison, collector, in acct with the county of Monroe.
To am't of CO. revenue as per receipt for 18H, $3,440.77
To ara't collected more Ihao charged, 69.90
Ce.
By treasurer's receipts filed, »2,ri38.37
By taxes remitted under act for relief of sutTerera by tlood, . 441 15
By errors— lands assessed twice 21.00
By errors— in calculations, 2C.72
By delinquent hits 26-67
By adv. lands inundated, 140.50
By forfeitures to the Stale 246.03
By commission 77.95
By balance p.l. to treasurer to-day, 182.IS
t3,.'>06.57 $3,506.67
Septb. 9, 1845.
John Morrison,
Sheriff" and collector.
The assessed values of the taxable property in the county
for 1845 was 8798,094, as rep')rted by John Ryan, the
assessor.
From the report of Mr. Ryan we glean the following
facts :
Monroe county had then 910 resident tax-payers, and
their personal property was valued at 8172,500. Eight of
these 910 had personal propjrty exceeding 1,000 dollars
in value, to wit :
S. W. Miles ?:i,"10 J. D. Whiteside 81.400
James A. James l,62o Samuel E. Owen 1,:132
Jacob Trout 1,531 Jewett heirs 1,209
Samuel Newland 1,500 Ferdinand Rose . 1,02.')
Slave property was assessed at $1,350. Henry Wademan,
A. W. Gardner, Cecelie Beaird, M T. Hornie, S. W. Miles,
and A. Eekert, were the slaveowners in 1843.
Tliere was quite a number of citizens who sported pleasure
carriages worth from 8100 to 8300 The present generation
may have some curiosity as to who it was that drove to town
in carriages forty years ago, and their curiosity shall be
gratified. The gentry of 1843 was made up by the follow-
ing :
B. F. Masterson — his carriage was the finest or newest,
for it was assessed the highest ; John Morrison, W. H.
Gale, A. W. Gardner, William Wilson, J. R. James, J. M
Moore, P. B. Brickey, Milton Moore, W. T. Eekert, Jesse
Wiswell, Abram Clark, Lewis S. Steigers, and John Ste-
vens.
The assessor's report further states that there were then
thirteen capitalists in the county, who, together, were draw-
ing interest on 88,930 loaned out. The report speaks also
of thirteen merchants doing business in the county, who
had stated their several stocks of goods to be worth 86,150
in the aggregate.
The town lots in the county were assessed at $21,955 ; the
values vary from 810 to 81,000 per lot. Of the latter class
there was but one, to wit : lot No. 90 in Waterloo, owned by
E. Moore.
The lands were assessed at from 83.00 to 85.00 per acre.
There were 48,060 acres described iu claims and surveys,
and 124,800 acres in sections.
The county levy for the year 1846 was 50 cents per $100,
146
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
which would yield a revenue of 8:^900.0(1, a tax of about 80
cents per capita.
Before closing our remarks in reference to the adminis-
tration of county affairs by the county commissioners' courts
(1819 to 1849), we should mention that the boundary line
question between St. Clair and Monroe, and between Monroe
and Randolph counties, had been adjusted during this
period. The reports of the county surveyors may, therefore,
find spai.'e here.
J. Milton Moore, surveyor of IMonroe county and J. Mes-
senger surveyor of St. Clair couniy made the following re-
port, which is ordered to be filed and recorded.
We the undersigned do hereby certify that on the 30th
of November 1829 we commenced at the former corner to
townships 2 and 3 south, between ranges 7 and 8 west of the
third principal meridian, where we seta new post in the re-
mains of a former "mound " from which a pine oak now 18
inches in diameter, a former witness tree btars south (i9° west
233 links distant, and with the compass set at a variation of
8° 45 east and ran thence north 89° 05 between townships
2 and 3 south range 8 west along the former line, renewing
the blazes when passing through timbered lands, and setting
posts when in the prairie at several points 5 miles and seventy,
five chains to a flag stone placed at the point of the former
corner to townships 2 and 3 south, ranges 8 and 9 west, from
which stone a post oak, SO inches in diameter bears south
21" west 135 links distant and a post oak now 15 inches in
diameter bears north 09° west, 101 links distant ; each of
them former witness trees to said corner, thence run north
along the former range line and renewing the blazes in the
same, 1 mile to the former corner of sections 30 and 31 T
2 south, R. 8 west, reblazed the old line where we set a new
post from which a Sycamore 30 inches in diameter bears
north 59° east 72 links distant, each of which were the
former witness trees to said corner, thence north 44° 06
west, 8 miles and 33 chains blazing the same to the former
corner of sections 30 and 31 T. 1 S. R. 9 west where we set
a new post by the remains of the former witness trees to said
corner, they having been recently felled, and take for new
witness trees a post oak 18 inches in diameter bearing 46J°
west 187 links and a post oak 15 inches in diameter bearing
north 16 J ° west 243 links distant, they being the former
witness trees to sections 25 and 30 T. 1. S. R. 10 west thence
north along the former line between ranges 9 and 10 west,
reblazing the same 1 mile to the corner of sections 19 and 30
T. 1 S. R. 9 west where we set a large flag stone in the
prairie, thence north 44° west intersecting the former section
corner diagonally to seclions 13, 14, 23 and 24 and sections
10, 11, 14 and 15 and sections 3, 4, 9 and 10, five miles and
52J chains to the northwest corner of section 4, T. 1 S. R. 10
west thence on the same course 2 miles and 66 chains to the
banks of the Mississippi river, where we set a post, from
which a black walnut, 18 inches in diameter, bears south 08}
east, 25 links distant and a sycamore, 26 inches in diameter
bears south 8 east, 50 links distant. The aforesaid line being
in conformity to an order of the county commissioners of St.
Clair and Monroe counties and in conformity to the act of
the legislature relative to the northern boundary of Monroe
county.
Report is dated December 3d 1829 and signed by J. Mil-
ton Moore and John Messenger, surveyors. Cost of survey
was 143 16.
Southern boundary line. Report of James Thompson and
J. M. Moore, county surveyors, made the following report,
March 1st 1830 and ordered to be recorded..
Report: We commenced to run the line between the coun-
ties of Randolph and Monroe at the southeast corner of
township 4 S. R. 9 west of the third principal meridian at a
variation of 7" 36 east, thence south 70 west on a random
line 62 chains to the house of James M. Canada (Kennedy)
about 6 chains north of the line 1 mile 30 chains a 15 K 5
links, thence north west 2 miles and 40 chains, second south
east 4 miles 16V chains, Kaskaskia road, 5 miles to the top
of the bluff", 7 miles and 01 chains to a road, 8 miles 236
chains, road to Kaskaskia, 8 miles and 55 chains to Alexander
McNabb's farm, fell 125 chains south of said farm, thence
cerrected the course and run from said farm south 71° 05
west on true line to the Mississippi river, which nine miles
and 78 chains to the river bank we set a post from which a
Cottonwood, 18 inches in diameter bears north 61 east 24J
links distant and another Cottonwood tree 1 6 inches in
diameter bears north, 25° west, 27 links distant, thence went
back to A. McNabb's farm and corrected the line and blazed
.it back to the beginning corner.
In conformity with a law of the legislature of the state of
Illinois providing for running a line between the counties of
Randolph and Monroe Dated February 18th, 1830. Cost
of survey §46.00.
REPORT OF SCHOOL COMMISSIONERS.
From the reports it appears that the school lands of town-
ship 3 — 8 were sold in 1830, averaging about 83 50 per acre.
Amount realized, $2216 00.
T 1—111 .
T3— 9 .
T 3—10 .
T 2— 0 .
T a-11 .
. I V2i\m T 4—10
. l'.i(i!l.i;(l T4— 9
IC^T-IT T4— 11
l:ii;6.sii
-,t.ln) Total Sohnol fund in 1848 . 811.309.
3,10.00
484.29
1726.60
The regime of the ciunty c3'Timi<3ioner's court ended in
1849. The constitutional convention of 1847 entrusted the
administration of county affairs to county courts, composed
of a county judge and two associate justices, who held their
respective offices for four years.
The last county board of ilouroe county was composed of
E. P. Rogers, Joseph Livers, and John Burk.
Before reciting the events of the period from the adoption
of the new constitution, March, 1848, to the present time,
we shall here introduce an extract of the circuit courts of
the county.
CIRCLIT COURTS 1817 TO 1848
The first circuit court, held July 21. 1817, at Harrison-
ville, was presided over by Hon. Jesse B Thomas, with
Charles Matheny as prosecuting attorney. The grand jury
at this term was composed of the following gentlemen free-
holders: William Chalfin, foreman, Alexander McNabb,
Daniel Hull, Jacob Trout, Ebenezer Bourne, John Worley,
HISTOEY OF JRAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUXTIES, ILLINOIS.
147
Jacob Clark, John Sliehan, Daniel Shook, Jacob Clover,
Leonard Kerr, George Ramey, Daniel Starr, John Roach,
Joseph A Beaird, Elijah Davis, Daniel Link, Michael
Dace, Solomon Shook, and Levi Piggott.
The indictments returned were as follows:
Andey Kinney, assault aud battery for severely beating
and wounding, at his mill in Harrisonville township, one
William Hogan, tried and acquitted.
John Lock, larceny. John had stolen a bridle from Jcihn
James, of the value of 80.00 ; pleaded guilty, and paid a
fine of ?1 2.00 and costs, and returned the bridle.
William Hogan, the very man on whose account Andey,
the miller, had been indicted, was brought up for larceny,
because he had, bv force, broken the lock of a chest, left in
his custody by Joshua Carey, and stolen its contents of the
value of 811. 5u
There were 7 more cases of assault and battery ; the fighters
were invariably finul from So to 812 00, but the fine was as
invariably remitted by a lenient aud benevolent judge.
A divorce case, Sarah Miller vs. Abraham Miller, was
tried and Sarah's prayer granted. She was also awarded
the custody of their only child, a boy named Isaac.
Another divorce case, Joseph Hogan versus Patsey (prob-
ably an abbreviation of Potiphar) Hogan was tried before
Judge Warnock at the August term, 1818. Joseph's griev-
ous wrongs are set forth in the following pathetic declaration :
To the honorable Circuit Court for the
county of Monroe, lUinoia Territory.
Your petitioner humbly sheweth that sometime in the
month of February in the year of our Lord one thousand
eight hundred and si.icteen, he was lawfully married to Pat-
sey Bailcv, now Patsey Hogan, that he continued to live in
peace and happiness with her for about three months, when
the said Patsey Hogan, contrary to the duties of a wife and
the matrimonial injunctions, eloped from his bed and board,
without his knowledge or consent, and now lives in open
adultery with other men.
Your petitioner humbly prays the honorable court for the
causes above stated, to decree a dissolution of the bonds of
matrimony entered into with the said Patsey llogan, and
your petitioner will ever be in duty bound to pray, etc.
For Joseph Hog.^n,
by E. Martin, his attorney.
Hogan had the following witnesses subpa-naed, to wit ;
Alexander Jameson, Edward Croush, and Adam Payne.
PaLsey made no defense, and the divorce was granted.
The first criminal court held in Monroe county after the
admission of Illinois !is a sovereign state, was presided over
by Joseph Phillips, chief justice of the supreme court, May
3d, 1819. Subsequent terms were held by John Reynolds
in lf<19, 18-20, and 18-21. Hon. Phillips is on the bench
again in 1822, succeeded in 1823 and 1824 by Thomas Rey-
nolds. In 182-5 and 18-2(5 Samuel McRoberts, the former
clerk, was found on the bench ; he had entered upon his
career to fame and honors, which elevated him to a seat in
the Senate of the United States. The next judge was T. W.
Smith. While at the bench at Waterloo, in March, 1828,
he heard the first murder case tried in the county. From
papsrs on file we glean the following facts in this,
The first murder case. A boy, or young man, Jacob Gil.
mon, had died on December 22, 1827, under suspicious cir-
cumstance.*, so that William Biggs, the coroner, deemed it
his duty to hold an inquest .V coroner's jury, with Joshua
Talbot as foreman, was called on the 'Mth of January, 18-28,
to hear the testimony of Cynthia Reynold, who swore that
between the 4fh und \Oth of Jubj lasl she was a' the house of
Jervett Varnum, and she understood that the said Varnum
was then whipping Jacob Gilmon at the cow pen. which was
a consderable distance from the house, and she, the said
Cynthia, distinctly heard blows, which she supposed to be
indicted on the body of said Gilmon with a stick, and that
Gilmon screamed from the tirfie she first heard the blows,
and that he continued screaming for a considerable time
after the blows ceased, and that he continued crying until
she went to bed ; and that he, the saiil Varnum came to the
house apparentlv in great passion, and said that he had given
the said Jacob the severest whipping that he had ever given
him. On the day following said Jacob said in the presence
of herself and Mrs. Varnum, that Jewett would never give
him but one more whipping, for he had almost killed him.
The wife of said Jewett told him to hush, that Jewett had
not given him too much ; and he (-lacob) said that Jewett
had given him too much, had thrown him against the fence
and almost killed him.
The phvsicians attending the post mortem have the follow-
ing testimony in writing :
" We, the undersigned practitioners in medicine, having
been called on by W. Biggs, the coroner of Monroe county,
to examine the body of Jacob Gilmon who was supposed to
have died from the effects of an external injury received, do
certify on oath, that our examination was particularly con-
fined to the head, and by careful examination of the hones
of the o-ifronfis and os temporis (!) and the upper part of the
OS temporis ^sic) having been fractured, we do agree that the
said deceased came to his death by violence committed iu
some way.
W. G. GOFARTH, J.VMIvS Newlin, T. St.vxtos.'
Thereupon the coroner's jury agreed to render the follow-
ing verdict :
We, the jurv, aft^r examining the body of Jacob Gilmon,
believe his death was caused by violence done by Jewett
Varnum, from the evidence produced.
Joshua Talbot, foreman.
Varnum was thereupon committed to jail, and for that
purpose, on January -M. taken to Belleville, as Monroe
county had no jail, only a lock and some irons, and they
were in possession of a citizen of Harrisonville. He imme-
diately petitioned Judge T. W. Smith for a writ of hnbeas
I corpus, under which he was brought to Edwardsville before
1 his Honor, Feb. 5, 18-28. The judge admitted him to ba il
148
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
in $500 with Thomas Hamilton as security. The case was
brought before the grand jury, «ho on the 8th of March,
1828, indicted Varnum for murder. The indictment set
forth that the beating given the boy ou Ju'y Titli, 1828, had
Caused his death on the 22d of December next, etc.
The case was tried on the 13ih of August, 1828, and
Varnum was acquitted.
A Challenge to fight a Duel. — At the next term of tbe
court, in August, 1828, Justus Varnum was indicted for
challenging Isaac Clark to fight a duel with rifles, to wit,
on the 13th of July last. Bad blood, caused by a lawsuit
about the right of some property, had prevailed for some
time between the parties. The duel was not fought, and the
case against Varnum the Just was nol. pros, iu August, 1829.
Another Murder. — Eliza Head was put on trial for her
life in May, 1831, before Judge T W. Smith. It appears
that Daniel Winn had made an aifidavit before 'Squire
Thomas McRoberts, on the 21st day of April, 1826, that he
had found the dead body of a female infant near his house ;
that he had reason to believe that said infant came to her
death by violence ; and further, that he believed that one
Eliza Head was the murderess of the child. A special
term of the court was thereupon called by Judge Smith, to
be held in May, 1831. The grand jury, through James
Ta:ylor, their foreman, presented an indictment against said
Eliza, charging that on April 19, 1826, immediately after
having given birth to a bastard child, she had destroyed its
life by filling the mouth and throat of the infant with dirt
and leaves, not having the fear of God before her eyes but
being moved and seduced by the instigation of the devil,
and against the peace and dignity of the state, etc.
The prosecution summoned the following witnesses : Daniel
and Mary Winn, James Wells, Fielder Burch, Samuel New-
lin, J. M. Wilson, Robert Miller, James Miller, Robert
Wilson, David Ditech and Abigail Converse. The trial
came oft' on the 31st of May, Attorney-General Alfred Cowles
prosecuting and A. W. Snider defending. The jury, com-
posed of William Wright, James Shephard, James Modglin,
John Wooters, Lynville M. Daniel, Elijah Axley, John
Matlock, Moses Lock, John Clark, Thomas McDaniel, Tho-
mas Sterrill, Jr., and Thomas Morgan, rendered a verdict
of "not guilty."
A second indictment, charging the said Eliza with con-
cealing the death of a child, was disposed of by a plea of
want of jurisdiction, the plea being sustained by the
court.
More Murders. — Henry Appel, indicted April, 1818, was
tried and found guilty at said term. He was defended by
Bissell and Engelmann, and obtained a new trial, when he
was found guilty of manslaughter, and sentenced to the peni-
tentiary for five years. Two cases of larceny against him
added fifteen years to the above sentence. Appel was a
St. Clair county man ; the name of his victim is not men-
tioned in the records.
Jacob C. Jones was tried for murder August, 1848, and
acquitted. Christopher aad Franz Reininger wsre tried for
murder April, 1849 ; they, too, were acquitted.
Leaving this subject of murder and bloodshed, we shall
turn now to another subject, to wit : the naturalization of
foreign- born residents of the county.
NATURALIZATION.
European immigrants commenced to arrive in the county
of Monroe about the year 1833. The first naturalization
papers were granted to John Raddleberger, August 26, 1840.
His Honor, Judge Sidney Breeze, administered the oath of
allegiance to the applicant, and made him a naturalized
citizen of the United States. Applications for citizenship
now became numerous, and as it may interest the present
genei'ation to read the declaration of such applicants, we
introduce here that of Ludwig Pilger, to wit :
I, Ludwig Pilger, an alien bornjree luhite person, do here-
by in conformity with the acts of congress relating to the
naturalization of foreigners, declare and make known that
my true and proper name is Ludwig Pilger, that I was born
in the Grand Dutchy of Hesse Darmstadt on the 27th day
August, 18(10, and that I am forty years of age, that I be-
longed to the German nation and owed allegiance to the
Grand Duke of Hesse, that I landed at the city of New
York, and in the United States of America, on the 20th
day of June, 1834, that I have ever since my first arrival
remained under the jurisdiction of the said United States,
and that it is bona fide my intention to renounce, forever,
all allegiance and fidelity to every foreign Prince, State or
Sovereignty whatever, and, more paiticularly such allegiance
and fidelity as I may in any wise owe to the said Grand
Duke of Hesse-Darmstadt, and to become a citizen of the
United States : that I do not now enjoy or possess, nor am I
in any wise entitled to any order of Distin-ction or title of
nobility, and that I am sincerely attached to the principles
contained in the Constitution of the United States, and desire
that this my declaration and report may be accepted, filed
and recorded preparatory to my intended conformity with
the several acts of congress heretofore passed on that subject.
Subscribed and sworn to before me ")
this 23d day of Eebruarv, A. D., V Ludwig Pilger.
1840. ■ 3
W. W. Omelveny, clerk.
List of foreign born citizens naturalized in the county,
from August 26, 1840, to April term, 1850. J. A. Franke,
George Frick, John Frick, Joseph Haller, W. Kraemer,
Philip Wehrheim, John VVehrheim and E. Waldmann,
August C. Haserick, Joseph Riehl. John P. Brann, Sebas-
tian Berger, James Burke, Joseph lieinpe, Jacob Horn,
John Koechel, George Koch, George Leip, B. Mosbacher,
Joseph Mohler, .Joseph Mohr, Louis Nadler, Joseph Reihl,
Jacob Ruch, Joseph Schroeder, Valentin Siegel, Vincent
Somm, Andrew Schirmer, Anton Schaefer, Joseph Sp^cht,
John Schaft'er, Anton Sparwasser, William Thackway,
David Walsh, John Welch, John Kirsch, Patrick McGrath,
Michael Kelley, Jacob A. Beck, Henry Lauer, Mathias
Huth, Lewis Pelzer, George de Pugh, Anton Dictz, Urban
Voelkli, James Newsham, George Maerz, Adam Bruegel,
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
149
Adam Hahnenberger, Christopher Klube, John Minker,
Heniy Oestrich, Henry Miller, Adam Beeker, Henry Manni,
Johann Dietz, Nicholas Reitz, Valentin Schafenberger,
John Hempe, John P. Hofman, Peter U'ierscheini, sr., and
Peter Wierscheim, jr., John McCrossin, Thomas Bums,
Jacob Ran, James Rogcow, Frederick Henekler. Thomas
Coop, .Tohn Adam Mummert, Michael O'Leary, Charles
Henekler, James Sinimott, Jacob Frick, Christopher Heyl,
J. Michael Kraetner, Gottlieb Much, Charles Frick, Paul
Schmitz, Jacob Ralin, Daniel Klein, Louis Grossmann,
Joseph Roscow, Philip Jarges, Peter Wickline, Perry Fox,
Martin Huth, Thomas Crowe, John P. Ensinger, jr., John
Dixon, George A. Kopp, John Lofink, Martin Dunn,
Thomas Lamb, William Gilraore, Valetin Bruegel, Thomas
Griffin, John Rye, John Delaney and Michael Berthall.
This list contains but a part of the names of the early
emigrants. Hundreds obtained their naturalization papers
'n other counties and in St. Louis, Mo. Many more, find-
ing no difference between citizenship and the right of suff-
rage, took no step to be naturalized, as the constitution of
the State gave the latter right to all who had been residents
of the county prior to its adoption — March, 18-18.
The number of immigrants poured into the county since
1^48, principally from Germany, have completely turned
the features of this county, which at its organization was
largely American. The German language now predomin-
ates in many parts of the county, and in the stores, the
shops, yea, even in the court house, " wird deutsch yespro-
chen." Many of the remainders of the old American stock
understand the German perfectly and speak it fluently.
The German schoolmaster, and above all, the German
priest or clergyman have by their ceaseless efforts succeeded
in perpetuating the language of the Yaterland on the banks
of the Missistipj)i.
MONROE COUNTY IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, FROM 1818
TO 1848.
Section 8, Article \1. of the Constitution of 1S18, stipu-
lated that Monroe should be entitled to one Senator and one
Representative, until a State census should be taken.
The Fimt General Axsemh/tj convened at Kaskaskia, Oct.
5, 1818, and adjourned on the 13th of that month, because
the Constitution had not yet been approved by Congress.
It met in second se.-sion, January 4, 1819, and adjourned
March :'l, 1819. Alexander Jameson represented the county
in the Senate, and William Alexander in the House, 1818
to 1820.
The Second (imeral Axsembhj convened at the new State
Capital, Vandalia, December 4, 1>^2(I, and adjourned Feb.
15, 1821. Alexander Jameson, senator, and Enoch Moore,
representative, 1820 to 1><22. Vandalia remained the State
capital for twenty years.
Third General Ai^embhj, 1822 to 1824. Joseph A. Beaird,
senator; William Alexander, representative.
Fourth General Assardily, 1824 to 182t). Joseph A.
Beaird, senator; George Forquer and Thomas James, repre-
sentatives.
Fifth General Assembly, 1826 to 1828. Joseph A. Beaird,*
senator ; Thomas James, representative.
Sixth General Assembly, 1828 to 18;50. Samuel McRoberts f
senator ; Moses Lemen, representative.
Seventh General Assembly, 1830 to 1832. Jonathan
Lynch, senator ; John D. Whiteside, representative.
Eighth General Assembly, 1832 to 1834. Jonathan
Lynch, senator ; John D. Whiteside, representative.
Ninth General Assembly, 1834 to 1830. Benjamin Bond,
senator ; John D. Whites'ide, representative.
Tenth General Assembly, 183(; to 1838 John D. White-
side, senator (resigned March 6, 1837); James B. Moore,
senator (successor of Whiteside); David Nowlin, represen-
tative (resigned); John A. Summerville, representative (suc-
cessor of Nowlin).
Eleventh General Assembly, 1838 to 1840. James B.
Moore, senator ; Edward T. Moore, representative.
Twelfth General Assembly. 1840 to 1842, convened at
Springfield (now the capital of the State), on the 23d of
November, 1840. James A. James, senator ; W. H. Bissell,
representative
Thirteenth General Assembly, 1842 to 1844 James A.
James, senator; Jacob J. Danner, Andrew J. Dickinson and
William McBride.]; representatives.
Fourteenth General Assembly, 1«44 to 1840. Joseph Mor-
rison, senator for Randolph and Monroe ; E. Adams, E. W.
Robbins and John D Whiteside,' representatives for Ran-
dolph and Monroe.
Fifteenth General Assembly, 184fi to 184.H Joseph Mor-
rison, senator ; Robert Mann, John Morrison and Edward
Omelveny, representatives.
MONROE COUNTY — 1849 TO 1883.
The State Convention of 1847 was convened at Spring-
field June 7th, 1847. and adjourned August 31st, 1847.
The constitution proposed was ratified at a special elec-
tion held on the 6th of March, 1848, and went into force
and effect April 1, 1848
This convention was composed of one hundred and sixty-
two delegates. Newton Cloud, of Morgan county, was
president, Henry VV. Moore secretary, and John A Wilson
sergeant-atarms.
James A. James and John D. Whiteside represented the
county of Monroe in the convention.
As stated on a preceding page, the county commissioners,
court was abolished by the new constitution, and the govern,
ment of the county entrusted to county courts.
First County Co«r(, 1849 to 18.o3 — John Morrison, County
* A re-npportionment was made January 12, 18'-fi, by whi<'h Monrop, Clinton,
and Washington counties formed a senatorial, and the county of Monroe a
representative district.
t Samuel McRoberts was elected to fill u vacancy caused by the death of Jo-
seph A- Beaird. McRoberts had been clerk of both lounty and circuit courts,
as well as recorder, during the infancy of the county. His records are to this
day models of accuracy and penmanship. He was elected to the United States
Senate in 1841, to succeed John M. Rob'nson, of Carmi. McRoberts died
March 22, 1813, and was succeeded by James Semple of Alton, senator, appointed
by Gov. Ford
t February 26, 1811, the ratio for a senator was fixed at 12,non, and for a repre.
snntaUve, at 4,<xio inhabitants. Monroe remained a part of the old St. Clair
senatorial district, and formed with Randolph county a representative district,
which was entitled to three members of the house.
150
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Judge ; Bradley Rust, James M. Robinson, Associate
Justices ; Daniel Converse, Clerk ; John H. Wilson,
Sheriff.
The first meeting of this court took place on the 3d of
December, 1849 The proceedings during the first two
years of this court are void of interest. The judge himself
devoted his attention to examining most minutely into all
county affairs. The constantly increasing public business, as
well as the growing claims on account of support of paupers
necessitated an increase in taxation. Besides, the o/(^ court
house, whose walls were '■ shook " by the balls of children
when it was new — 1834 — was wholly inadequate for even
the most modest demands. The question, when and how to
build, was mooted for fully two years, and when at last the
plan of building a new court house was matured, and a
contract made, the court wisely ordered a special tax for the
purpose of paying for the work as it progress; d,
The contract price was only 88,000, but how carefully was
the contract itself drawn up. There is, we venture to say,
uo contract on the files of any of the other counties of the
State so detailed and so carefully worded as the one in
question. Its perusal may not interest all the readers of
this sketch, and yet it is very good reading, and men in
future may learn a lesson from it.
The New Court Huu-e. — The building of the present
court house was an undertaking of some magnitude, consid-
ering tlie indifferent condition of the county finances, and
the limited revenues of the county.
The county authorities were well aware of the situation,
and the articles of agreement drawn up and entered into on
the 5th day of (September, a. d. 1851, bear witness to their
fonsiylit. We intiuduce this voluminous document at
full length, so that in future times the county authorities
may be guided in similar cases.
Tlie Agreem nt. — This article of agreement made this 5th
day of April, a. d. 1851 between Lloyd Prather, of the
first part, and John Morrison, judge of the county court,
Bradley Rust and James M. Robinson, associate justices of
the county court of Monroe county, Illinois, and their succes-
sors in ofKce for the second part, witnesseth :
That for and in consideration of the sum of S8,000, to be
paid by the said parties of the second part or their successors
in office, as hereinafter on their part particularly set forth,
the said Lloyd Prather does hereby agree and bind himself,
to build a Court House on the public square in the town of
Waterloo, Illinois, for said county, and on such place on
said square as shall be de.'^ignated by the said county court,
according to the following plan and specifications, to wit :
1st. Excavation of all that part of the earth that will be
under the two rear rooms, to be excavated six feet from the
lower edge of the joists, the same being about 17x25 feet
each, all that other part of the outer foundation which will
be under said building, as shown in the plot annexed hereto,
and drawn to i inch to the foot, making the said building
43x60 feet on the ground, is to be excavated to the depth of
2} feet and 2i feet wide, and all partition walls are also to
be excavated to said depth, eighteen inches wide, said cellars
and trenches for foundation to be dug to a level from the
proper point in such a manner that the brick walls will
stand plumb over the center of all the lower foundations.
2d. Foundaiion. — All that part of the foundation from
the bottom of the cellars to the top of the grade, and all
that other part of the foundation of said building to be good
common mason work of lime stone rock of good sine for such
a job, well laid in good lime and sand mortar, said walls to
be laid solid and firm clear through the whole thickness of
the wall, all of said mortar walls to be two and a half feet
thick, and all the inner or partition walls to be eighteen
inches thi ^k, brought up to a true level at the top of grade.
3d. Upper Found ttioii.—A.U that part of the upper
foundation under the outer walls of said building to be raised
on the outside from the top of the lower foundation or grade
to the height of two feet with good bush hammered cut
rock of lime stone, laid in two ranges if practicable, with as
small joints as possible of lime and sand mortar; the rock
for said foundation is to have an inch and a half margin cut
or tooled all around, top and bottom, and the center snugly
dressed with a fine bush hammer, the lower range of rock to
be a little wider than the upper one. And the thickness to
vary from 6 or S to 14 inches, and those thick and thin rock
placed alternately on the walls so as t) make a good joining
with the backing up behind the face work, which is to be
sufficient to make the walls two feet thick of common mason
work. On the top of this cut stone work there is to be a
water table, eight inches in depth and dressed in the same
manner on the face as the other cut-ston-', said water table
to be from ten to fourteen inches wide, and beveled from
the brick walls between the outside three-fifths of an inch so
as to throw off the water, and the same is to project over all
around one and a half inches and beveled snugly all around,
making good intersections. There is to be backing up
behind the water table level with the top, the same as the
backing up behind the other cut work. The partition walls
in the upper foundation to be raised to a level with the
outer foundation, the same thickness as the lower and the
same kind of work, all of which must be well and substan-
tially done, taking care to have the walls well tied together
from the face, or nearly so, tha: the two beds will come
snugly together and thereby prevent springing when the
weight comes on.
4lh. Sills, etc. — There are to be sills at the side entries
doors set in range with the water table, the same thickness
and worked in the same manner, and to be wide enough to
extend from the outer edge to the inside of the brick wall.
At the two ends there must be a stone platform, to be long
enough to embrace the entire finish of the door set in range
with the water table, the same thickness and dressed in
the same manner, and to be wide enough to extend from
the front raige of the water table fjur feet inside of
the brick wall, which will require each to be about 6x9
feet. There are to be hutments carried in connection with
the wall from the foundation up sufficiently high for the
platforms to rest upon at each end and to be a little elevated
on the inside to run out the water. The joist must be so
arranged as to bring the floor level with the top of those
sills and platforms, observing that the joists must go into the
HISTORY OF RAyDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRV COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
15]
stone wall.-; ; tiiere nw to bo tlirec stone steps at each duor
the rife being; eight inches auii trend lourteen inches,
(inisheii in tiie same style.
.5lh. SllU iiikI i'<ipi. — All windows to have .-tone ra)is and
sill.-, to be ilressed iu similar niatincr ; sills J inches thick,
and as wide as usual ; the caps to be 10^ inches wide and of
proper thick ne.-s. The outside doors must have wooden
frames clear through the wall, made ironi joists 2 by .S
inclies, spiked or pinned together and well put on, -ci a- to
prevent settling or cracks.
<>lh. Tlir lirick for sai<l building must be of the best
nierchantable (juality, moulded in twos and of city sizi-s,
using the best front brick for the outride.
7th. lii-icl; (toi-L- — All the brick work is to be done in
good sub.-tantial manner, and never running more than
scatilild high on one wall before bringing up the other walls
to the same height. All the outside walls to be run to the
height of 2()j feet from the top of the water-table to the
square of the building, nuiking the (irst story 101 feet high
niKJ the second st«>ry 1') feet high ; the outside walls to be '11
inches th'ck, including i iiteas. The antea to i)roject about
41 inches, leaving the walls about l"* inches thick, and,
after running to the t"p of the antea caps, the wall must
then be full thickness clear through, thert by making the
faces of the cornice of brick, as also the architrave of the
cornice, set out at square projections ; the antea cajis are
also to be of brick, set out at square projections. The inner
or partition walls to be run to the height of the first story,
and niue inches thick. All the brick must be laid in their
appropriate i)laces with true face to walls inside and out.
with straight angles and plumb. Sai<l brick must be laid
in go' d lime and sand mortar, and all the interstices to he
filled up wiih mortar, so as to make a good solid wall.
8th C'lrpentii's work — All the joists in the first and
second floors to be 2; by 10 inches, of white or post oak, or
otherwise white or yellow pine. There mu?t be at least one
range of cro.ss bridging, of suitable size, run through each
room and pas-age below between the joists, and also three
ranges in the u]>per floor, one over each belovv. well secured
All the above joists are to be placed on the walls 16 inches
from the centre. There must be a heavy girder, or rather
two, to reach across the passage, to lay the joists on. Said
girder should be 10 by 12 inches, and rest well on the wall.
Dth. ('t'i/iiirj ami riirif. — There njust be si.\ pair of princi-
pal rafers in said roof, one t • stand over each antea, but
where the flues and chimneys come they niu.-t be as near the
antea as practicable, on account of fire, minding to equalize
the weight as much as possible ; .said rafters to be as fol-
lows: Each main bearn 7 by 10 inches, and long enough to
extend over the wall on both sides. There are to be two
king posts, hammer beam, and spur braces. The queen
posts must be at least 7 by 12 inches, cut in such a shape
that the head of the principal rafter when cut square will
fit it when applied ; also cut at the foot, so as to receive the
spur brace. In the same way said posts must be well
framed into the main beams, and said beams are to be sup-
ported by means of an iron stirrup, h by 2 inches, going
around the beam and extending up the posta at least two
feet from the lower edge of the beam, drawn up by means
of two iron keys, made of sutticient length to drive through,
and then bolted through with a three-ipiarter iron bolt with
head and nut. The principal rafters must be let into the
main beam at th'' bottom or heel, and there secured by
means of a seven-eighth screw bolt with washers, put ing the
same through at riglit angles from the top of the rafters.
The queen posts muyt be framed into the girders a little
more than one-third of the space from the inside of each
wall. The hammer beams must be with a little head to the
shoulder, so as to b x into the queen posts one-half inch at
its lower edge. The size of the principal rafters and beams
are to be 7 by 8 inches, two ranges on each siile of the roof,
one to jog down on the beams immediately behind the queen
posts, the other at a proper distance below, as near the head
of the spur brace a.s praclii'able, or not quite hall-way to the
rai-iug plate, which must be 2 by 10 inches, and well se-
cured to the beams and lookouts. Jack rafters mu-t b.; 2
by G inches. The ceiling j dsts must he 2' by 0 inches,
boxed in between the main beams as to a strip well nailed
or spiked. Said joints must be put in (i inches from the
centre ; at lea.st evtry other j .int at each end of the building
must remain outside of the wall to fasten cornice to. Ob-
.serve to only have the end beams that rest on the wall half
the depth of the others, or .5 by 7 inches, and well .secured.
On the top o the joists there must b : look.iuts framed in on
the sides, of sufficient number and size to make a good sub-
stantial job. say at least l'> inches deep. All the above
joists and roof timbers must be of good white jiine, to u.se
scjuare-edged sheeting 1 inch thick, to use the best (|uality
of white pine shingles, laid from 4 to 5 imdios to the weather.
Root to be the same pitch as shown in the plan ; to be a con-
venient scuttle left through the ceiling in the lobby at the
head of the stairs, and also one through the roof at a con-
venient place for getting out ; the .same to be well secured
with copper, so as to entirely prevent leaking. There must
also be copper gutters behind each and all the chimneys,
being tour in all.
10th. Curnicc. rtr. Said buililing is to have a cornice in
the Grecian style ; it is to go all around said building Th
gutters iu this cornice must be lined with 12 lb. copper, the
same being made as large as lo inches; the copper must be
put together'with a double groove, made perfectly water-
tight and fastened <lown with staples made at right angles,
so that the co()per will draw under them when affected by
heat. It will be observed that said gutters must first be
lined with plank before the copper is put in ; there must be
also four down conductors, made from 10 lb. copper, and
made 3 inches in diameter, and carried down behind the
brick facia and antea caps, so as not at all to obstruct the
cornice on the outside, and conductors to be carried down
straight in the first angle of the ant^a from the corner on
each side to the top of the water table, and there a shoe
made to throw off the water.
lllh. Front iKjiiires There are to be four frontispieces
in Grecian style, one to each of the four entrances, to be
made of thick, heavy stutt"of the best quality of white pine,
also four side-light doors, made of the same material; the
152
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES. ILLINOIS.
two recess doors not to stand more than 3 J feet from the
iuside of the wall to the finish of the posts. There is to be
a heavy fancy architrave around the outside of said doors;
the shutters to said doors must be made of the best quality
of white pine, and made in four panels, well hinged with
good butts, each door furnished with a good, heavy American
look, with mineral knobs. There must be an iron railing
of a good pattern from antea to antea, on each side of the
door over the crown of the frontispiece on each side of the
building.
12th. Windows. There must be four windows in stone
foundation, two at each end of building, one under each of
the other windows. There are al.so to be twenty-eight win-
dows, twelve lights, each 12x18 inches, all of said windows
to be made with good puUies properly arranged, and the
lower sash hung with good cords and cast-iron weights.
1.3th. Flooring, etc. Floors to be laid in the first and
second stories with good seond-rate yellow pine plank, mill
worked and of the usual thickness, and from 4 to six inches
wide, well seasoned and well laid down by secret nailing.
14th. Doors. There must be the same number of doors
as marked on the plan. All the inside doors, except the
door to the court room must be at least 3x7 feet, and the
one to the court rojm must be 51x8'., made folding, and each
door to be hung with three hinges; to have j:ood spring
bolts with chain to the top bolt, also a good American lock,
with mineral knobs, as aLso all the other doors in said
house.
15th. Stairs, etc. The stairs in said building to be as laid
down in said plan, of yellow pine.
16th. IJitse. There must be a base in all the rooms and
passages in said building, made plain and 8 inches wide,
snugly cased.
17lh. I'drtitions. All the rojius in the secjnd story to be
divided with partitions ; there must be a snug step-ladder to
go up to the scuttle in the upper ceiling.
18th. Court Room. All the seats for spectators and jury
boxes must be raised from the floor, one above the other,
from four to six iuches, to have ends back and seats solid,
with backs capped in a snug manner; there must also be a
strip, four iuches wide, under the seats. The judge's seat to
be made with square columns, snugly capped, the front
being 25 feet from the floor of the stand to the top. The
clerk's desk to be made in good style, with doors, also the
desk for sheriff, officers, etc.
19th. PlitstfriiHj. All the rooms and passages in said
building to be plastered w th three good coats of lime and
sand mortar, the last coat to be made of Plaster of Paris and
marble.
20th. Pointing. All the brick-work on the outside to be
painted with three coats of white lead and oil, of light drab
coLir, and all the corners, anteas, caps, pediments, frontis-
pieces, frames, doors, etc., to be painted white.
All the window blinds to said building must be painted
with three coats, green of the best quality. All the work is
to be finisheil in manner as specified by the 1st day of March,
1853. The said county court and their successors in oflice
agree to and with the said Lloyd Prather that they will upon
compliance of the said Prather with this contract pay to him
the sum of $8000 in payments and in manner as follows, to
wit, the sum of $1500 on the first day of June 1852 and the
sum of $1500 payable yearly after the year 1852, and at the
completiijn of the building the said court further agrees to
and with the said Prather, that they will for the balance
then due to said Prather issue the bonds of said county bear-
ing interest at the rate of 10^ per annum until paid and pay
the interest thereon annually until paid.
Lloyd Prather's bond was countersigned by Ham. Shoe-
maker, W. C. Starkey, N. B. Wall, A. W. Gardner and
Wm. Wilson, jr , witnessed and certified to by J. M. John-
son, a justice of the peace.
The court house was completed on April 1st, 1853.
The tax values of 1852 were $905,000 and the special levy
for court house purposes was -41 cts.
The secc„'' county court was elected in 1853.
John Morrison was re-elected, and in fact remained in
office until death called him off" in 1872. The reader will find
the names of his associates in the roster of county officers on
a subsequent page. The County continued to grow in
wealth and population. The Financial affairs weie in good
shape, the taxes light and the tax-payers ready to pay
them.
A financial statement made during the third term of the
Hon. Judge may find room here.
Pnid since- June ter
i-)r r-iails ami bridge?
1 18J7 to the pieseiit te
county and probate .
associate justices . .
377.110
201 .k»
records, cupboards for county clerk's •
sherirt and deputies
sh ritf s percentage on revenue . .
elections, officers of and mileage
comnii-sioners on lost book (.' . . . .
constables on circuit court
„5.essors, depot, assessors
clerk of circuit com t salary and fees .
repair ..n court house and jail, fuel, ki-
e,.r,.urr li .Iding inquests
r;'"pcr-
l.i7.1o
2-.i.50
O.i.SO
01 0.37
138.95
13S.20
01.20
il2S.78
Total .
County orders is.sued since June l.<.i7 S7. 340.44
County orders of prior date out -l^.W
Total S7.J89.00
County orders paid since June 1857 5.552.39
County orders still unpaid 2.337.21
County revenue for. 1857 86.953.50
Licenses — peddlersand groceries 9OU.50
7.854.00
Paid in by ooUecter, part revenue of 1857 $1023.20
Leaves revenue uncollected " 830.80
Deducting from this the outstanding county orders as above 2.337.21
Leaves amount due to the county $4.4113.59
Whereas the jury certificates are not issued in this office,
and no report made of those issued, it is impossible to state
how many are out.
I, the undersigned, clerk hereby certify that the above is a
i5:a
COURT HOUSE.
FUBUC BW1M/N6S MONHOS county. ILLINOIS
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
153
true ami correct statement of the fiscal condition of Monroe
county iij) to June term a. d. 18>8.
C. II. KiCTTI.ER, CoUllll) Clerk*
The following statement will slmw the increasing wealth
of the county.
STATEMFNT OF ASSESSHENT 18ot).
Horso« 3.148 valued SIi"'<li>'<>
Mules isa '• lG.ii4.'>
Cattle • , 0230 " 6(i.fiiil
Slieep 1300 •' '. . ii.5i>.")
Hops ... . i079"> " ].'i.C(iS
Carrinpes an<l wngons .... 1703 " 3.'i.Ti>.s
CUiek.* and u'atelies 11-JO "
740
Go^uls and merehan<H>c 33.970
Mnnnfaeturi'd arliclfs 2.390
Mone.v and .rodiis I34.r.«C
Bouds and Stuek> l.HK)
\\\ utiier persunal property 70.«I0
Total ,
Land<i — numlier of
Lots in tcuiis
Equ.tlized valuuliiMi 51.919.74''.
Tnr/^r;/ /or l.<o9 fur state purposes I2.8(;2.3l
Fonouul.v •• 7li7)t.99
Special school taxes for said year are not mentioned in the
above statement.
An immense hanking business was to be started at that
period, with a capital of a million of dollars known as the
MffcantUc Bank, at Waterloo, Monroe county, Illinois.
We whose names are hereunto annexed, do hereby certify :
J-'int. That we have associated together for the purpose
of establishing an office of discount, deposit and circulation,
and do hereby agree to become incorporated upon the terms
and conditions, and subject to the liabilities prescribed in
the act of the general assembly of the state of Illinois,
entitled "an act to establish a general system of banking,"
and the name assumed to distinguish such associations
and to be used in its dealings, is the Mercaiitile Bank.
Sffoiiil. That its business is to be carried on in the town
of Waterloo, Monroe county, state of Illinois.
Third. That the amount of capital stock of the associa-
tion is one million of dollars, divided into ten thousand
shares of one hundred dollars each.
Fourth. That the name and residence of the respective
shareholders, and the number of shares held by each of them
respectively, are as follows : Caryl Young, Chicago, Illinois,
ten thousand shares.
Fijih. That the said association shall commence this
* The above statement js a verbatim copy of the original|as found on book E
pages 21G and 217. It i? not in good shape, yet accurate, and being the first
statement ever placed on record, it should find space o^i this chapter. The
county revenue to wit S6-854.0<i exceeds the expenditures about S2,'jO, which
amount may have sufficed to redeem the jui*y certificates mentioned above. —
What use the county clerk had for a cupboard is however not made plain. The
lost book C was a record of desed, spirited away and after several years found
in the court house well. The index to this book had been preserved, and a
partial record was subsequently made by recording the deeds 4c, remaining in
the hands of grantees.
20
20th day of September, 18G0, and terminate on the 20th of
September, 1885.
(liven under my hand, this 20th of September, 1860.
Caryl Yoi'xg, [l. s.].
Subscribed and sworn to ) r^ n tr ^r , i, ,,■
this 20th of Sept., 1860. \ ^" ^ " Harris, Xotary Pubhc.
The following report clearly indicate.^ that the people of
the county fully understood the favorable financial condi-
tion of their county :
EEl-OKT OP GR.VND JURY, NOVEMBER TERM, 1858.
The grand jurors at said term have examined the jail,
and have also conversed with the prisoners confined therein,
and we deem it proper to report, in relation to the prisoners,
that they appear to be well provided for under the circum-
stances, as could reasonably be expected, and that all speak
in the highest term of the kind treatment received from the
gentlemen in charge of that department.
We have a few remarks to make in relation to the present
condition of our county jail, and hope they will not pa.ss
unnoticed by the county authorities; we earnest!}' recom-
mend that speedy measures may be taken to erect a decent,
safe and suitable building, to hold our unfortunate people,
who have violated and al\vay.s will violate the laws of
our common country. We look upon the present jail as a
nuisance and unworthy of a resting place upon the public
ground of Monroe county, a county free of indebtedness,
and settled by an industrious and enterpri.-ing people, and
occupying the most enviable position of all the southern
counties of our growing state.
Jacob Gai.e, forenuai.
The county court did not pay any attention to this request
or report of the grand jury, for ihey thougiit it wi.ser and
more humane to first provide fi.r the poor and friend le.'^s,
than for our unfortunaif people ti-lio nill a/irays tio/atc the
lauM of our common roiintrij.
Acting on this principle, they purchased a small tract of
land from Charles Ilenckler and John S. Boshert, for S200,
and contracted with Charles Borntraeger to erect an
asylum thereon, in order to give shelter to the county poor.
This, now commonly called poor housf, cost the county
S2,2S8.15.
The civil war had now broken out, and the public funds
were constantly needed to support the needy families of the
men who had taken the field.
The flush times in the years immediately succeeding the
war, had their effect on the people of Monroe county as well
as on those of other counties. The expenditures of the
county increased to S25 000 a year, and frequently exceeded
the revenue. County orders, amounting to S5.<I0 and over,
were made ten per cent. inter>st bearing paper, a floating
debt was gradually creeping up and what was worse, a large
funded debt was settled upon the county, not by its officers,
however, but by the votes of the people. The old county
judge, however, did not live to see his county loaded with a
debt, exceeding 8100,000.
The records of the county pay tribute to this faithful
public servant, as follows:
]54
HISTORY OF liANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
PlX-EMRER SlTCIAL TkUM 1S7'2.
Mniiil,!!/ Ajlmiooii DccciiiIk r '1 i.
In mi:mi)1:iam. Hon. Jc/m J/dr./.M//*.— At a funiial meet-
ing of tlie I'ouiuy cuui-t liclil at the t^ourt House in Waterloo,
Detember :2;> ISTii, pi.niLiputed in by the several couuty
officer?, nie;iil)er» of the bar and citizeus of the county, for
the purpose of paying a last tribute of respect to the memory
of Hon. Job.n M n-rison <]ecease(l, late judge of the county
court of Monroe County, Illinois, alter appropriate prelimi-
nary remarks, the following preamble and resolutions were
unanimously adopted, viz:
AVhereas ii has pleased Divine Providence to remove by
death Ironi our miilst Hon. John Jlorrison, and as it is emi-
nently niu't, that we in his death ever honor one \Yhom we
had so loiig honored while living, therefore as a last teslimo.
iiial of our respect to his memory, be it
1st, Ji'ryulcrJ, that by the death of Judge Jlorrison, the
citizens of this county have lost one whom they long delight-
ed to honor as the firm, uncompromising friend and protect-
or of the poor, the friendless, the widow and the orphan, and
whose doors and jialms were always open to the wants of the
needv, and one whose hands were ever pure in the adminis-
tration of !iis official duties.
■_*)i(/, 7,''.-"/i'(/, that we tender our sympathies to his be-
rfavid widow and family.
"nl, Ji'ifo'i-cd, that these resolutions be placed upon the rec-
ords of the county court, that a copy of the same be fur-
nished (0 the family of the deceased, and also that a copy be
furnished to each of the newspapers of this county, the ad-
joining counties and St- Ijouis, with a request that the same
be published.
John IMoriison was succeeded by H. S. Talbott, who to-
gether with Adam Rei.-s and Harrison Druce conducted tha
affairs of the county until 187 !, and were relieved by a board
of county commissioners, who under the constitution of 1870
were henceforth entrusted with tlie county government.
The large funded debt nientioned above was created by a
vote of tlie people at a special election held on the 24th of
February, 1868, in which 1537 voters against 165, decreed
that the county should take 8100,000 stock in a projected
Bail Road from East St Louis to Cairo, and running through
the county.
The money with which to pay for the stock was to be
raised by issuing county bonds of said amount, to draw 8 per
cent, interest, and to become due 20 years after the date of
issue. The result of the election however was not made a
matter of record at that time, because as it seemed, the plan
of building the road had been abandoned. Later this was
done, the bonds were prepared, and finally placed into the
hands of the railroad people, as will appear from the follow-
ing document of one hundred words each, which will cost the
county twenty six hundred dollars in principal and interest.
No. 2S. — State oflldnois. — 1,000 Shares Cairo arid St. Louis
Railroad Company.
This is to certify, that Monroe county, in the State of
Illinois, is entitled to 1,000 shares, of SlOO each, of the
capital stock of the Cairo and St. Louis Railroad Company,
transferable only on the books of said company by the said
stockholder in person or by attorney, on the surrender of
this certificate.
In witness whereof, the said company has caused this cer-
^^"^^■^^ tificate to be signed by its president and secretary,
K^-^J this 5th day of March, 1873.
S. S. Taylor, President.
D. IIi'RD, Secretary.
CON'STITUTIONAI. CONVENTION OF 1870.
This convention was preceded by that of 1862, in which
Thomas \V. Morgan represented this county. The funda-
menlal law proposed by this convention was rejected by the
people at a special election, held June 17th, 1862. A ma-
jority of the delegates were not exactly " loyal" in the sense
of a majority of ihe people, who were at the time in the hot-
test excitement on account of the civil war. " Loyalty" in
tho.se days did not mean obedience to law, but allegiance to
ihe dominant party. The convention of 1870 was composed
of eighty five delegites, j>resided over by Charles Hitchcock,
of Cook county, with John I. Harmon as secretary and J.
L. Lothrop as doorkeeper. Monroe, together with Ran-
dolph and Perry counties, formed the eighth district, repre-
sented by J H. Wilson, of Monroe, and George W. Wall,
of Perry. The constitution proposed by this convention
was ralilied by the people on the 2d of July, 1870, and went
in force on the 8th of August following.
As stated above, the county government was now entrusted
to a board of county commissioners of three members; the
members of the first board to serve respectively one, two and
three years; their successors were to he elected for full terms,
to wit, three years. The first county board was composed of
Gtorge Fi-ick, who served two full tci-nis 187a to IS70.
Hiiiri.^ou Druce, wiih served a two yenr.s' term 187:t t'l 1875.
George I>i\ ers, who served a one year and a three j-ears-' term, 187J lo 1877.
The first board caused the present jail to be erected, a
substantial structure and a credit to the people of the county,
but not until the grand jury had again urged the matter.
They say in their report of September, 1874 : " The couuty
jail is very unsafe and insecure, and from its constructiou
and arrangement unfit for the purpose of a jail, impossible
to bo kept clean and ventilated ; its insecurity is so notorious
that the sheriff is compelled to place a night-guard around
the said building. Steps should be taken immediately to
erect a new jail" The question of borrowing the necessary
funds for building a jail was answered in the affirmative by
a popular vote, and a contract entered into with Jotham
Bigelow, of St. Louis, who agreed to erect the building
according to plans and specifications, for §8,985, and have it
finished by the 21st of September, 1875. The jail was finished
and received in December, 1875, and cost a trifle more than
contracted for, to wit :
Amount paid to contractor SS,901 no
" for lot «I0.('0
" for plans 125.00
" " to superintendent 245.25
" tor extras 829.75
Total 810,001.00
During the term of this board, some changes in the names
and boundaries of the existing precincts were made and new
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
loo
precincts formed Eagle township lost its time-honored
name, to be henceforth known as Columbia. We sulijoiii a
complete list, to wit :
I'RECINCTS — MAKCH SPECIAL TERM, 1875.
Columbia. — Each precinct to be named Ciluin'^ia, with
boundaries as follows : Oo the north and east by the county
lines of St. Clair and Monroe counties ; on the west by tbe
Mississippi river; in the south to include sections 2") and
2 and north part of survey 408, claim o4'>, all in township
15. R. 11 W., and sections 2o, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 3o and
',A) in township 1 8. R. 10 \V., and the part of section 31
township 1 S. R. 9 W., lying in Monroe county. The elec-
tions at this precinct to be held in the town of Columbia.
Neu' Hanover, a new precinct to be established, the boun-
daries to be as follows, to wit : Oa the west by the bluffs ;
on the north by the north lines of section 31, 32, 33 and 34
in township I S R. 10 W., including all of survey 413,
claim 341 ; on the east by the section lines between sections
34 and 3.") in township 1 S. R. 10 W., Dud by the section
lines between seelions 2 and 3, 10 and 11, lo and ID, 21 and
22 in township 2 S. R. 10 W; on the south by the section
lines between sections 21 and 28, 20 and 29, 19 and 30 in
township 2 S. R. 10 W., and by the section lines betwten
sections 24 and 2o in township 2 S. R. 11 \V; elections to be
held in the town of Hanover.
Waterloo, heretofore known as Fountain precinct, the
boundaries of which shall be as follows : On the east by the
boujidary line between the counties of Monroe and St. Clair
including all of township 2 S. R. 'J W. lying in Monroe
count)', except sections 25 and 30 : on the north by township
lines between township 1 S. R. 10 W. and township 2 S. R.
10 W., and the lines between township 1 S. R- 9 W. and
township 2 S. R. 9 W ; on the north by the lines between
sections 11 and 2, 10 and 3, 9 and 4, 8 and 5, 7 and 6 of
township 3 S. R. 9 W., also by the lines bstween sections 12
and 1,11 and 2, and 10 and 3 oftownship 3 S. R. 10 W ; on the
we^t by the lines between sections 2 and 3, 1 and 10, 15 and
16, 21 and 22, 27 and 28, 34 and 33 of township 2 S. R. 10
W, and the lines between sections 3 and 4 in township 3 S,
R. 10 \V. ; elections to be held in the town of Waterloo.
MoreJoek. — On the east by the bluffs; the west by the
Mississippi river, on the north by the north lines of survey
599, claim 764 and survey 588, claim 765, and survey 409
claim 643, and the north line of section 36, all in township
1 S. R. 11 W ; and the south ivest quarter of survey of 654,
claim 579, in township 1 S. R. 10 \V., on the south by the sec-
tion lines between :!() and 31 , 29 and 32, 28 and 33 and section
34, all in township 2 S. R. 11 W. Klections to be held at
the house of Isaac Eberraann, the old homestead of the late
Stephen W. Miles, sr.
Prairie dii Long. — On the east by the Kaskaskia river,
including all of township 3 S. R. 8 W. and all township 3
S. R. 7 W. lying in Monroe county, and sections 1, 12, 13^
24 and 25 in township 3 S. R. 9 \V., and section 36 and
fractional section 25 in township 2 S. R 9 W. Elections to
be held at school-house No. 2 in 3-8.
New De.nijn includes all of sections 7,8, 9, 10, 11, 14, 15,
16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, 31, 32, 33,
34 35, 36, township 3-9, and section 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 0, town-
ship 4-9, and secticms 10, II, 12, 1.3, 14, 15, 22, 23, 24, 25,
26 27, 34, 35 and 36 in township 3-10, and section^
1,2 and 3 in township 4-10. I'.leciions to be held in the
town of Burkvillo.
Bbiff includes all of sections 4, 5. 6, 7, 8, !>, 16 17, Icj. l!),
20, 21, 28, 29, 30, in T. 3 S. R. 10 W. section 28, 2H, 30, 31,
32, 33 in town 210, the bluffs forming the western bnundary
line, including the blulf parts of sections 25, 35 and 36 in
township 2-11, also the following sections in townsliij) 3-11,
lying on the bluffs, viz: sectionsi, 2,3, 10 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,
22, 23, 24, 25, 26 ; elections to be held at the hou.se of Peter
Mueller.
Harrisovril/e. — On the east by the blutfi ; on the west
by the Mississippi river, it includes sections 31, 32,33, town-
ship 2-11, and the claims and parts of claims lying within
said sections of town-'hip 2-1 1, and the islands and parts of
islands in said townshiji, it includes also sections 3. 4, 5,6, 7,
8, 9, 10,15, 16, 17, 1-, 19,2), 21,22,26, 2:, 2^ 2.1, 30, 31,
32,33, 34 and 35 in t)wnship 3 11, and all tho claims ami
surveys lying within said seciions in saiil townships in the
American Bottom excepting claim 495. survey 701 ; elec"
tions to be held in the town of Harrisonville.
Mitchie to compose all of sections 31, 32 and '■)■) in town-
ship 3-10, also sections 35 and 36, township 3 11, cltiiii V.i'),
survey 701, also sections 1 , 2, '■',, 4. 5, 8, '.), \'\ 1 i, 12, 13, 14
1.5, 16, 22, 23, 24, 25 an. I 26 in 4 11, also steti wis 4, 5. 6, 7^
8,9,16, 17, 18, 19, 20,21, 2:t, 30 in township 4 10, the
upper line of the common fi^dds of St. Rhilij), farming the
division line between Mitcliio and Renault ])re(;incts ; elec-
tions to be held in the school house near Clialnn bridge.
Renault comprises all of .sections 7, 6, 9. 1(1, 11, 12, 13, 14,
1.), 16, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 27, 2.-5. 29, 30,
31, 32, 33, 34, 35 and 36 in towiishiii 4-9, also tcctions and
parts of sections 10. 11. 12. 13. 14. 15, 24, 25, 35 and o6 in
township 4 10, also ail of th^j itiiiault Grant and the part
of the commons of St I'hilip lyinir in township 4 10, also
all oftownship 5 9 and township 5-10 lying in the county of
Monroe. Elections to be held in the town of Glasgow city.
I'AUl'KKS IN THE L-DINTV.
The expenditures of the county on account ol' this class
of its population have never been great. Monroe is an in-
different field for pauperism. The expenditures of the
county in 1882 amounted to •■?32,t)7S.83, for general purposes,
and to 88,000 more on account of the interest on the railroad
debt, making an aggregate of 640,078.33. The pauper bills
amounted to 82,873.91, or a triflrf more than 7 per cent, of
the total. There is no other county in the state of Illinois
to show up as well in this respect as little ^lonroe.
After exannning into the financial affairs of many
counties in the state, we are of theopini()n that the pa.iii''r
expens3S abs )rb abo;it 18 per e.Mit. of the tot:,l tount/
revenues.
The paupers are kept in an a.sylum at Waterloo. The
superintendent of this asylum is paid §300.00 per annum,
and twenty cents per day for each inmate, whom he has to
board, clothe, and provide with bediling, etc. The inmates,
27 in number, are well kept, and have no complaints to
156
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
make ; nine of this number are constant boarders, the others
are transients, admitted since June, 1882 The county
has 20 insane paupers in state institutions.
AGRICULTURAL STATISTICS — 1881 AND 1882.
Farm Oops.
Acres of, i
1,401
2,rji
3,308
O.irn lr,,758
Wheat <56 3G7
(Ints S,ll50
Apple Orchards
Vineyards . . •
Tiniotliy meadows . . .
rinver meadows
Hungarian and millet !)■'»
Rye !:»
Birley l"iT
Irish potatoes 1,244
Rorglio 41i;
Turnips, etc 2.'i
otiier crops
Prodtirls in 1681.
btithels.
132,316
71B,112
50,705
13.000
ons. 12,046
s. 3.25.1
5,590
20
iish. V87
J 72,790
716,112
52,080
.55,000
Pas'ure
Woodland
Ilnculti^aled lands
folts foaled number 108. valu
Fat cat le sold, gro.ss weight .
Pounds of butter s.rld . . . .
Pounds of cheese sold . . . .
Gallons of mik sold
Pounds of wool sold . . . .
Fat sheep sold
Fat hogs sold
Pounds of honey produced .
6,867
.57,240
Addendum.— liu horses, representing a value of S10,64(»,
died during the year 1881 ; .i.") head of cattle, valued at
$1,.')49, died of disease. There were 1780 cows kept;
61 sheep, representing a value of $183, were killed by dogs,
and 91, worth Sil70, died of disease. Cholera carried off 57.J
hogs, worth S2,235 ; and 442, valued at Sl,l)4<t 00, died of
other diseases.
STATEMENT OF ASSESSMENT.— 1882.
Horses, 2.004, valued atS31.55 each
Cattle, 3,76:), valued at Slo.05 each
Mule", 2.335, valued at SSO.iHl each
Sheep, 1..586, valued at 81.00 each
Hogs, 9,235, valued at S1.47 e.ach
Steam engine.",. 5.5, valued at S145.00 each
Safes, 17, valned at »21.00 each
Billiards, IG, valued at $10,011 each
Carriages and wagons, 2,382, valued at S10-G5 f aeh .
Watches and clocks, 2,130, valued at 81.58 each . . .
Sewing machines. 1,157. valued at $0.70 each . . . .
Pianos, 47. v.alued at $40.24 each
Melodeons,0, valued at $10.44 each
Merchandise
Material and manufactured articles
Manufacturers' tools and implements
Agricultural tools and machinery
Moneys and credits ■ ■ "
Properly of saloons
Household property
Grain of all kinds on hand
All other personal property
Total
126,717 acres of improved land .at $9.97
111,065 acres of unimproved land at $2.00
1,804 town lots
Total values ....
Railroad property, assessed at
Grand total
Addition by order of stale board of equalization
Total equalized value .
FINANCIAL STATEMENT.— SEPT. 1, 1882.
Receipts :
Balance in treasury, September!, 1881 .
Revenue of 1881
Licenses
Sundries
Excess of fees from eoimty oflicers . . .
Total
$7,279 22
22,508 77
1,<155 55
26 60
3,272 47
$34,142 61
Expenditures :
$91,020
37,849
91,141
1.586
13,0.50
7,055
3.50
307
25,367
3,388
7,701
2,173
148
48,985
5,907
1,473
40,407
154,775
1.432
42,006
0,832
5,727
$000,625
$1,264,190
289,660
e50,3i;0
$2,404,835
.55,777
$2,400,612
252,142
Salary of county officers . .
Paupers
Public buildings
Court-*
Elections
Jail, dieting prisoners. . . .
Roads and bridges
Attorney's fees and eommiss:
Surveying Renault grant . .
Surplus, available
$6,908 89
2,873 91
1,0.52 70
1,.577 15
321 £5
570 05
15,700 23
1,502 94
406 20
2,004 28
f'ouuty orders issued pri'
County Debt :
■ to September 1, 1881, unpaid .
Railroad bonds
Total indebtednc
.ailablc surplus as above -,
.\olnal county debt $98.
The tax s levied for the current year are as follows :
For state purposes
For interest on county debt .
For county purposes ....
For town purposes
For school purposes ....
For road purposes
$13,044 15
9,351 83
17,3114 00
1,598 72
23.010 21
2,310 46
Total $07,225 43
The population of the county, according to the U. S.
census of 1880, is at present 1 3,682 ; hence the tax per capita
is nearly 85.00.
CIRCUIT COURT. — 1848 TO 1882.
During the period the circuit courts of Monroe were pre-
sided over by the Hons. Gustav Koerner, W. H. Under-
wood, Sidney Breese, H. K. S. Omelveny, Silas L. Bryan,
Amos Watts, George W. Wall, and W. H. Snyder.
The number of murder cases during this period is alarm-
ingly large, over twenty ! Most of the accused escaped pun-
ishment, many cases were nol. pros., with leave to re-instate
and never re-instated ; others were acquitted and a few con-
victed of manslaughter, to be sent for a terra of years to the
penitentiary.
Two, howiver, had to suffer the extreme penalty of the
law.
MURDER AND EXECUTION.
Henry Alter, tried for the murder of William Henze, who
was found dead in a field of Henry Alter's, in Prairie du
Long, on the 5th of July, 1860. luformatiim of the murder
was made, by Henry Henze and Rodus Kunkel, to F. T.
Klinkhardt, J. P., who, in the absence of the coroner, called
a jury and held an inquest This jury was composed of H.
W. Waldraaiin, Henry Struebig, Kilian Rex roth, George
Bley, John R. Tomlinson, James Wiggelsworth, Jacob
Christ, Peter Waring, John Bradley, Thomas Carter, Mat-
thew Donohoe and Casper J. Brann. The evidence was_
that Alter and Henze had had an altercation about some
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MOXROK AXD PERRY ( OUXTIES, ILLIXOIS.
l.V
hogs, on said 5ih of July ; that they had not been on friendly
terms foi some time, and that Alter shot Henze while he
(Henze) was going away. The wounds inflicttd were in the
back of deceased. The verdict of the coroner's jury was as
follows:
" We, the jury, find that the deceased came to his death
bv violence, by shooting with buckshi>t, and that the said
body has upon it the following marks and wounds, intlicted
by Henry Alter, and which this jury find to have been the
cause of the deceased's death ; all buckshots came from
behind; five of them entered the back of the deceased, two
the left arm, fracturing the bone mar the shoulder; one his
right forearm, one his spine, and was cut out of the breast-
bone."
Upon this verdict the defendant was committed to jail,
and brought there by Thomas Ryane, constable.
The grand jury, at the subsequent October term, was
composed of Harrison Horine, foreman, John Wilsch, John
Koechel, John Whiteside, George L Ditch, John L. Kiddi
Jacob Motes, Frederick W. Brand, John liowman, James
Close, Jacob Beck, Thomas A])plegate, Harrison Druce,
Michael McDermot, Louis Grossmann, Jesse Wiswell, Wil.
liam Walsh, Sr , John Morgansen and George A. Kopp, and
found the following true bill, to wit :
The People i'*. Henry Alter. Indictment for murder. A
true bill. H. Hokixe, Foreman.
Witnesses: Kodus Kunkel, Henry Henze, Jacob Hush-
man, George Bley, Frederick >?chrader and Caspar J.
Brown.
State of Illinoi.s \
Monroe County, ) *'■
Of the October term of the Monroe County Circuit Court,
in the year of our Lord 18G0.
The grand jurors chosen, selected and sworn in and for
the county of Monroe, aforesaid, in the name and by the au-
thority of the p3ople of the state of Illinois, upon their oaths
present that Henry Alter of the county afoiesaid, on the fi th
day of July in the year of our Lord, one thousand eight
hundred and si.xty, at and in the county of Jklonroe aforesaid^
in and upon the bo<]y of William Henze in the peace of the
people of the state of Illinois then and there living, felonious-
ly, wilfully, and of his malice aforethought did make an as-
sault, and that the said Henry Alter, a certain gun then and
there charged with gunpowder and ten leaden shot, which
the said gun, he the said Henry Alter, in his hands then
and there held, then and there felouiously, wilfully and of
his said Henry Alter's malice aforethought did discharge
and shoot off to, against and upon said William Henze, and
that the saiil Henry Alter, with the ten leaden shot afore-
said, out of the gun aforesaid, then and there, by force of
the gunpowder aforesaid, by the said Henry Alter, dis-
charged and shot ofl'as aforesaid, then and there unlawfully,
feloniously, and of his malice aforethought, did strike, pen-
• etrate and wound him, the said William Henze, in and up-
on the back of him, the said William Henze, giving to him
the said William, then an<l there with the ten leaden shot,
aforesaid, by the said Henry Alter, in and upon the back
of him the said William Henze, one mortal wound of the
depth of six inches, and of the breadth of half an inch of
which said mortal wound he, the said William Henze, then
and there instantly died, and so the jurors aforesaid, upon
their oaths afort said, do say that the said lit r.iy Alter,
him the said William Henze, in manner and by the means
aforesaid, feloniously, wilfully, and of his malice afore-
thought, did then and there kill and murder, contrary to
the form of the statute, in such cases made and provided,
and against the peace and dignity of the people of the state
of Illinois.
Amos Watts states attorney. Henry Alter was defend-
ed by Abbott and Henchler. The witnesses subpa-nanl in
his behalf, were Martin Stahlheber, Thomas Burns, John
Barthel, Jacob Horchman, (son of crubbing John) Timothy
Dun, and his son Timothy Dun, and Charles Schuckert (a
tailor at Red Bud).
The trial commenced on Wednesday, November 21, ISfiO,
before the Hon. H. K S. Omelveny, and on the 22d the fol-
lowing verdict was returned, to wit:
November 22, Waterloo, Monroe county. State of Illinois.
We, the jury, '• finds " the defendant •' gilty ' in manner and
form as charged in the indictment in this cause.
Signed : Henry P. Comyns, N. S. Peters, Ben Carr,
Francis Malcbora, Thomas J. Erwin, John S. Garett, Fred.
Miller, Joseph Rincler, Jacob Snider, William M. Nether-
ton, Albert Busen and John G. Schaefer.
A motion for a new trial was overruled, as was also a
motion in arrest of judgment for insufficiency of the indict-
ment, acd the following sentence passed upon said defendant ;
'■ That he, the said defendant, Henry .\lter, having been
found guilty by the jury of the crime of murder, be sentenced
to be hanged by the neck until dead ; and it is further
ordered by the court, that he, the said Henry Alter, be exe-
cuted on the 2'<;h day of December, a. d. IMJO, between the
hours of ten o'clock a m. and four o'clock i>. m. of said day,
in the hall of the jail of Monroe county. 111., if the room of
said hall be sufficient; if not, then he be executed in the
jail yard of said county ; that he remain in eustodv until said
day of execution, and that the sheriff of this county execute
this sentence."
This laconic sentence was duly executed. The room in
the hall of the county jail was not "sufficient," and so the
execution took place in the jail yard, as will more fully
appear from the following certificate. It is written out on a
separate sheet of paper, and not endorsed on the death war-
rant, as usual in such cases ; in fact, there is no death-
warrant on file ;
Certijicate.
" I, H. F. Henckler, Sheriff of Monroe county, in the
State of Illinois, do hereby certify, that Henry Alter, who
was sentenced to be hung on the 28th of December, 18G0, by
the circuit court of said county, at the special November
term, 18ti0, of said court, for the killing of William Henze
in said county, was, on the 28th day of December, l^tJO, at
quarter past three o'clock P. .M of that day, duly executed,
according to the sentence of said court, by hanging said
Henry Alter by his neck until he, the said Henry Alter
was dead, and that I did comply with the act passed by the
158
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
legislature of the said state, on tlie 18lh of Februarj', A. d.
1859, by erecting an inclosure adjoining the county jail of
said county on the north side, and having such persons
present as the said act directs ; but that before Alter was
hung said inclosure was forcibly taken down by a mob, who
overpowered the officers attending said execution.
Witness my hand this 28th of December, 1K60.
H. F. Henckler,
Sheriff of Monroe county. 111."
We the undersigned, do certify that the above certificate
and the statement thertiu contained, is true and correct,
and that we were present at the said execution.
Witness our hands, this 28th of December, 1860.
John Morrison, county judge; Urban Degenhard, judge ;
George Tolin, judge. Doctors, K. S. Bollet and Thomas
J. Cornell. Witnesses, Paul Schmiz, John C. Morney,
Joseph W. Drury, C F. Gauen, Henry Pinkel, G. L.
Ditch, Heinrich Kimmel, Cortez Crocker, Nelson Moody,
Jewett Varuum and G. Ruch.
The sentence of H. Alter, has by many been considered
too severe, and to this day it id thought that a term in the
penitentiary would have been ample. Alters had been
worried and laLtalized by Henze, time and again, and in
this last altercation could not control his passion. Murders
had been of frequent occurrence in the county and the
people were clamorous for a punishment in keeping with the
heinousness of these oft repeated crimes.
The sheriff's certificate itself shows plainly how enraged
the masses were. The iuclosures, erected to hide the death-
scenes from the eyes of a blood-thirsty nfultitude, were torn
down by a mob, which had overpowered the authorities.
Executioner, doctors, judges and four fifths of the wit-
nesses have passed away to those realms, to which poor
Albert's soul took its forced flight on that cold December
eve.
TRIAL AND EXECUTION OF GABRIEL J. FORSEE.
Gabriel J. Forsee was not a resident of Monroe county.
He had been indicted by the grand jury of Randolph
county, Illinois, at the September term, 1865, for murdering
Elizabeth Darwio, whose throat he had cut with a knife
"for the value of one dollar," on July 13th, 1865. He
obtained a change of venue and was tried before judge Silas
S. Bryan, at the May term, 1866. He was defended by
Underwood and Hood. The jury who tried him, was com-
posed of the following citizens, to wit: William Nagel, W.
W. Wallace, Michael Finnerty, Joseph Proctor, Joseph W.
Hilton, Renke Renken, Arnold Herchenroeder, Frank
Varies, Henry Schmidt, Christian Henry, Jacob Heer and
George L. Ditch.
The verdict of this jury is very brief, and bears no date
or signatures. Its file mark is as follows : Filed May Tth,
1866. William Erd, clerk.
His honor, judge Bryan, closed his brief sentence of death
with the words, " May God have mercy on you."
Gabriel Forsee was a bad man, had served a term in
penitentiary for some other crime, ahd as he had been con-
victed, mainly on the evidence of Elizabeth Darwin, he
murdered her from motives of revenge.
The execution took place, as the sheriff's certificate states,
on the 2d of June, 1866, between the court house and jail
at Waterloo. It is signed by Lewis N. Wilson, sheriff, and
witnessed by Dr G. Hoffmann, Dr. H. Rothstein, Engelbert
Voerster, M. D., and a ''jury" composed of William Hen-
ley, Charles W. Meyer, Samuel Waddle, Christopher Fults,
John Hirz, Martin Dunn, Valentine Briegel, C. H Kettler,
J. H. Wilson, Theodore Repp, Daniel O'Leary and Charles
Frick.
It should be stated here, that judge Lynch held court,
time and again, during this period. His work was speedy
and terrible, and, it is feared not just in several cases.
This information was given to the writer from hearsay, and
as this chapter is" wholly made up from documentary
evidence, the details of cruel and monstrous mob law must
be excluded from these pages, The passions during and
immediately after the war ran high, life was considered
cheap, and the evil deeds of lawless persons exasperated the
people to such a degree, that the word " not " was stricken
from their sixth commandment.
Several efforts to bring judge " Lynch " into court proved
futile, and it seemed that the people generally were satisfied
with what judge Lynch had ordered and decreed.
A queer indictment.
Frederick Heidelberger was indicted May, 1864, for
bringing a negro slave into the county. The evidence was
that Heidelberger, although warned that he was violating
the law, had smuggled a negro slave, who had run away
from his master in Mississippi, and made his way to St.
Louis from that city to the county, etc. The jury found
Heidelberger guilty, and the court, judge Silas L. Bryan,
fined him SlOO and sentenced him to one hour imprisonment
in the county jail. Heidelberger took an appeal, but it does
not appear that the case ever came before the supreme
court. It was lost sight of entirely. The fine and costs
are still unpaid. Heidelberger died February 3d, 1873.
His estate was put under administration and all his just
debts were paid in full.
MONROE COUNTY IN THE GENERAL ASSEMBLY, 1848 TO 1884.
Sixteenth General Assembly, 1848 to 18.i0.* J. L. D.
Morris-'n, of St. Clair, senator ; Xerxes F. Trail, of Monroe,
representative.
Seventeenth General Assembly, 1850 to 1852. J. L. D.
Morrison, senator; Thomas Quick, representative.
Eigh:eenth General Assembly, 1852 to 1854. Edward
Oraelveny, senator; Thomas Winstanley, representative.
Nineteenth General Assembly, 1854 to 1856. The appor-
tionment of 1854 made no change in the district, except
as to number. St. Clair and Monroe counties formed the
22d senatorial, and Monroe alone the Uth representative
* Section 6 of Article III. of the Constitution of 1848 provided as follows : The
Senate shall consist of 25 members, and the House of Representatives shall
consist of 75 members, until the population of the State shall amount to one
million of souls. By section 40 of that same article the counties of St. Clair
and Monroe formed the 5tU Senatorial, and Monroe alone the 18th Represent,
ative district.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
159
district. J. L. D. MorrisoD, of St. Clair, senator ; William
R. Morrison, representative.
Twentieth General Assembly, l.s5(i to 1858. W. H.
Uuderwood, of St. Clair, senator ; W. R. Morrison, repre-
sentative.
Twenty-first General A.'sembly, 1858 to lS(iO. W. H.
Underwood, senator ; \V. R. Jlorrisou,* representative.
Twenty-second General Assembly. 18G0 to 1862. \X. 11.
Underwood, senator ; H. C. Talbott, representative.
Twenty-third General Assembly, 1862 to 1864. By the
apportionment of January 31, 1861, Monroe county, to-
gether with the counties of Williamson, Franklin, Jackson,
Jefferson and Randolph, formed the 3d senatorial, and
Monroe, Randolph and Perry the 8th representative dis-
trict, which latter was entitled to two members of the house.
Israel Blaneliard, of Jackson, senator; Stephen W. Miles,
of Monroe, and Edward Menard, of Randolph, representa-
tives.
Twenty-fourth General Assembly, 1864 to 1866 Daniel
Reily, of Randolph, senator; Austin James, of Monroe, and
W. K. Murphy, of Perry, representatives.
Twenty-fifth General Assembly, 1866 to 1868. Daniel
Reily, senator ; John Campbell and William K. Murphy,
representatives.
Twenty -sixth General Assembly, 1868 to 1870. Samuel
K. Casey, of Jefferson, senator ; John M. IMcCutcheon and
Thomas II. Burgess, both of Perry, representatives.
Twenty-seventh General Assembly, 1870 to 1872. Samuel
K. Casey, senator, died in office, succeeded by W. B. Ander-
son, senator; W. R. Morrison, representative.
Twenty-eighth General Assembly. 1872 to 1874. By the
apportionment of March 1, 1872, Monroe, Randolph and
Perry counties have formed and are now forming the 4Nth
senatorial district, entitled to one senator and three repre-
sentatives. W. K. Murphy, of Perry, senator; John W.
Piatt, William Neville and Austin James, representatives.
Twenty-ninth General Assembly, 1874 to 1876. W. K.
Murphy, senator ; Joseph W. Rukert, Samuel McKee and
Jonathan Chesnutwood, representatives.
Thirtieth General Assembly, 1876 to 1878. Ambrose
Hoener, senator ; Theophilus T. Fountain, John Boyd and
Septimus P. Mace, representatives.
Thirty-first General Assembly, 1878 to 1880. Ambrose
Hoener, senator ; John T. McBride, John R. McFie and
Philip C. C. Provart. representatives.
Thirty-second General Assembly, l.SSO to 1M.N2. Louis
Ihorn, senator ; Isaac M Kelly, William K. Murphy and
Austin James, representatives.
Thirty-third General Assembly, 18M2 to 1884. Louis
Ihorn, senator; John R. McFie, of Coulterville, James F.
Cauniff, of Waterloo, John Higgins, of Du Quoin, repre-
sentatives.
CITIZENS OF MONROE COUNTY IN STATE OFFICES.
George Forquer, the founder of Waterloo, was attorney-
general from January 23, 1829, to December 3, 1832, on
which day he resigned the office.
•W. R. Morrison, the honored member from Monroe, was Speaker of the
House, 1808 to 1800.
John D. Whiteside was state treasurer from March 4,
1837, to March 6, 1841. The Whitesides came to this
region about one hundred years ago. John J. Whiteside
founded the now defunct town of Washington, on the Kas-
kaskia, about the year 17it5.
William II Bissell was elected governor of Illinois in
1856, was inaugurated on the 12tli of January, 1857, and
died at Springfield, March 15, l.'^fiO. (Note from the "Amer-
ican Encyclopedia.") Gov. Bissell was born near Coopers-
town, N. Y., April 25, 1811. He took the degree of M. D.
at the Jefferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in 183);
practiced medicine two years at Painted Post, N. Y. ; re-
moved to Monroe county, Illinois, in 1837 ; was elected to
the state legislature in 1840, and there earned distinction as
a forcible and ready debater. He subsequently studied and
practiced law, and was elected prosecuting attorney of the
St. Clair district in 1844. He served in the Mexican war
in 1846 as colonel of the 2d Illinois volunteers, and distin-
guished himself at Buena Vista. On his return home in
1849 he was elected without opposition a representative in
Congress, in which capacity he served till 1855, resisting the
repeal of the Missouri compromise, though he had previ-
ously acted with the Democratic party, and gaining much
reputation in the North by his defiant bearing in a contro-
versy »ith Jefferson Davis respecting the ccmparative brave-
ry of Northern and Southern soldiers. Davis challenged
him, and he accepted the challenge, selecting muskets as
the weapons to be used, at so short a distance as to make the
duel probably fatal to both parties. Finally the quarrel
was compromised and the challenge withdrawn.
Henry C. Talbott was a member of the first state board
of equalization elected by the people. He served his con-
stituents in that capacity from 1868 to 1872.
MONKOE COUNTY IN THE CONGRESS OF THE UNITED ST.\Ti;.S.
Seriate.
Samuel McRoberts was elected to the Senate in 1841,
succeeding John M. Robinson. McRoberts died JIarch
22d, 1843, four years before the expiration of his term, and
was succeeded by James Semple, then of Madison county.
House of Representatives.
William H. Bissell, originally of IMouroe county, repre-
sented this, commonly called the Belleville district, from
nh) to 185.5.
William R. Morrison, the most distinguished citizen of
Blonroe and of Illinois, represented the district from 1863 to
1865, and again since 1873 — and has recently been elected
to serve a sixth consecutive term, to wit : from 1883 to
1885. Morrison, as member of the House, is honored and
respected by all his colleagues, without an exception. His
administrative talent is apparent to all who direct their
attention to public affairs. As chairman of the Committee
of Ways and Means, 1875 to 1877, he has made a national
record of talent and merit.
OFFICERS OF MONROE COt:NTY.
A'Iministratiee Braitcli.
County Commissioners from IS 16 to 1840.
181G to 1817— Caldwell Cairns, James Lcraen and
160
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Abraham Amos, " GeutleEian Judges" of the county of
Monroe.
1817 to 1818 — Caldi^e'. Cairns, James Lemen and James
McRoberts
1818 to 1819— Caic',>ell Cairns, James McRoberts and
Joseph A. Bfaird
1819 to 1821 — George Forquer, Caldwell Cairns and
James McRoberts.
1821 to 1823— George Forquer, Caldwell Cairns and
John Roach.
1823 to 1824 — John Roach, John Garretson and Cald-
well Caiins.
1824 to 182o — John Garretson, Nathaniel Hamilton and
John D. Whiteside.
182G to 1828— John D. Whiteside, John Bamber and
John James.
1823 to 1829— Enoch Moore, H. H. Talbott, John Bamber
and John JI..'Donald, elected to succeed Talbott (resigned.)
1829 to 1830 — Enoch Moore, John Bamber and John
McDonald.
1830 to 1832— Ed. T. Morgan, Ab. Barker and John
McDonald.
I8.j2 to 1833— Ed. T.Morgan, John McDonald and Felix
Clark.
1833 to 1834— Ed. T. Morgan, Felix Clark and Scipio
Beaird.
1834 to 1836 — Emery P. Rogers, Solomon Patterson and
Thomas McRoberts.
1836 to 1838— E. P. Rogers, Sidney Todd and Thomas
Singleton.
1838 to 1840-Sidney Todd, William Threlfull and J. M.
Wooten.
1840 to 1S41— J. M. Wooten, Sidney Todd and Thomas
Winstauley.
1841 to 1842— Sidney Todd, Thomas Winstanley and
Thomas Harrison.
1842 to 1843 — Thomas Winstanley, Thomas Harrison
and Clem. Bostwick.
1843 to 1814 — Thomas Harrison, Clem. Bostwick and
John Goeth.
1844 to 1845- Clem. Bostwick, John Ga?th and Pat.
Saxton.
1845 to 1846— John Goeth, Pat. Saxton and Lewis James.
1846 to 1847 — Pat. Saxton, Lewis James and E. P.
Rogers.
1847 to 1848 — Lewis James, E. P. Rogers and Joseph
Livers.
1848 to 1S49— E. P. Rogers, Joseph Livers and John
Burk.
COUNTY COURTS FROM 1849 to 1873.
1849 to 1853 — John Morrison, County Judge; Bradley
Eust, J. M. Robinson, Associate Justices.
1853 V) 1357 — John Morrison, County Judge; George
Tobin, Sidoc}' Todd, Associate Justices.
1857 to 1861— John Morrison, County Judge; George
Tobin, Uibau Degenhard, Associate Justices.
1861 t? I-8J5 — John Mjrrisoj, Cjunty Judge; Ernest
Grjsie, Stephen C. Potest, Associ.?.J.e Justices.
1865 to 1869— John Morrison, County Judge; Jacob
Beck, Abraham Porter, Associate Justices.
1869 to 1874 — John Morrison, county judge, died in
office December 1872 ; vacancy was filled by Henry C. Tal-
bott, county judge. Adam Raisi and Harrison Druce, asso-
ciate justices.
County Commissioiiers Board from 1874 to date : 1874 to
1875. — George Frick, Harrison Druce and George Divers.
1875 to 1876. — Harrison Druce, George Divers and Geo.
Frick.
1876 to 1877. — George Divers, George Frick and Jacob
Maeys.
1877 to 1879. — George Frick, Jacob Maeys and Ernest
Grosse.
1879 to 1880. — Jacob Maeys, Ernst Grosse and Chris-
tian Jobusch.
1880 to 1881. — Ernst Grosse, Christian Jobusch and John
Angerer.
1881 to 1882. — Christian Jobusch, John Angerer, and J.
F. Harms.
1882 to 1883.— John Angerer, J. F. Harms and John
Janson.
Clerhi of the County Court or Board.
1816 to 1819.— William Alexander.
1819 to 1825.— Samuel McRoberts.
H. C. Mizner, clerk at " interim," in place of McRoberts,
suspended by county board, but reinstated by a " manda-
mus " of the circuit court, 1822.
1825 to 1843. — Daniel Converse.
1843 to 1848.— W. W. Omelveny (resigned).
1848 to 1857. — Daniel Converse.
1857 to 1861.— C. H. Kettler.
ISGl to 1873. — Ambrose Hoener.
1873 to date. — Paul C Brey.
Assessors.
John Moore, Thomas O'Connor, Alexander Jameson,
Nathaniel Hamilton, John C. James, Madisoi. Miller, J. D.
Worley, Pendleton Hill, Thomas Winstanley, John Ryan
and Mathew Donohoe.
These officers were appointed by the county board at
times to act for the whole county, and, at other times, for
districts or townships.
The assessment of the taxable property has by law been
made the duty of the county treasurer. 1844.
Treasurers.
John Moore, 1816; Prince Bryant, 1819; John James,
1825; E. P. Rogers, 1827; Nathaniel Hamilton, 1823;
Hardin Newlin, 1830; John Ryan, 1831; Jesse Wiswell,
1841 ; Hammond Shoe^jaker, 1843, resigned in 1853, David
M. Livers appointed to fill vacancy in 1853 ; Christian H.
Kettler, elected in 1853 ; John L. Lemen, 1855 ; Ambrose
Hoener, 1857 ; Hammond Shoemaker, 18(il ; William Wil-
son, 1863 ; G. L. Riess, 1865 ; David M. Hardy, 1869, re-
signed in 1878 ; and Alonzo Philips since that date.
Recorders.
William Alexander, 1816; Sarauel McRoberts, 1819;
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
161
and Daniel Converse, 1825, who remained recorder until
the law made the circuit clerk recorder ex-officio, 18-18.
Surveyors.
Enoch Moore, 181B; J. Milton Moore, 1820; W. C.
Starkey, 1855; H. Ropiquet, 1859 ; David M Livers, 1861 ;
Leander James, 1863; August Weinel, 1865; August
Brandes, 1867; J. R. Doyle, 186!); and Rufus Gardner
s'nce 1875.
Jmlic'uil Officers, Probate Court — Judges.
Caldwell Cairns, from 1816 to 1825; James B. Moore,
1825 to 1832; Enoch B. Moore, from 1832 to 1837 ; Thomas
Winstanley, 1837, as probate justice of the peace; John
Morrison. 1849 to 1872. County Judge : H. C. Talbott,
18/3 to 1877 ; and William Erd since 1877.
Circuit Court —Juilyes.
Hon. Jesse B. Thomas in 1817 ; Hon Daniel P. C'ook and
Hon. John Warnock in 1818; Hon. Joseph Philips in 1819;
Hon. John Reynolds in 1819 and '20; Hon. Joseph Philips
in 1821 ; Hon. Thomas Reynolds in 1822; Hon. John Rey-
nolds in 1823 ; Hon. Thomas Reynolds in 1824 ; Hon. Sa-
muel McRoberts in 1825 and 1826; Hon. T. W. Smith
1827 to 1828; Hons. R.M.Young and \V. C. Brown in 1829 ;
Hon. T. W. Smith, 1830 to 1835 ; Hon. Thos. Ford in 1835 ;
Hon. Sidney Breese from 1836 to 1843 ; Hon. las. Semplein
i843 ; Hon. .James Shields from 1843 to 1845 ; Hon. Gustav
Koerner from 1845 to 1849; Hon. W. H. Underwood from
1849 to 1855 ; Hon. Sidney Breese from 1855 to 1 858 ; Hon.
H. K. S. Omelveny from 1858 to 1862; Hon. Silas L.
Bryan from 1862 to 1874; Hons. Amos Watts, George W.
Wall and W. H. Snyder since 1874.
Prosecuting Attorneys.
The records fail to give a succinct account of these officers
in the period from 1817 to 1840; Charles Matheny, Charles
B. Matheny and Sidney Breese are mentioned. W. H.
Underwood from 1840 to 18J4 ; W. H. Bissell from 1844 to
1848 ; P. B. Foulke from 1848 to 1852 ; George Abbott in
1852 (pro tern.) ; W. C. Kinney to 1856 ; W. H. Snyder
from 1856 to 1858 ; Amos Watts from 1858 to 1864; George
Vernor in 1864 (pro tern); J.P.Johnston from 1864 to
1868; .John Michan, 1868 to 1872; George R. Reiss, 1872
to 1876 ; J. W. Rickert Since 1876.
Clerks of the Circuit Court.
William Alexander, 1816; Enoch Moore, 1818; Samuel
McRoberts, 1819; John D Whiteside, 1825; David Newlin,
1828 ; Enoch Moore, 1836 ; W. W. Omelveny, 1840 ; W.
R. Morrison, 1853; William Erd, 1855; John Segler,
1876, died in office, 1879, was succeeded by John Wiesen-
born, the present incumbent.
Sheriffs.
James B. Moore, 1816 ; John James, 1820 ; Jonathan
Lynch, 1825 ; James Moore, 1830 ; James B. Needles,
18;5-4; Edward T. Morgan, 1840; John Morrison, 1842;
John H. Wil.^on, 1846 ; Charles Henckler, IS.jO ; J. M Wil-
son, 1852; Ciiarles Frick, 1854; H. F. Henckler, 1860;
Lewis N. Wilson, 1864; Joseph W. Drury, 1866 ; Charles
21
Frick, 1868; Joseph W. Drury, 1870; Charles Erick,
1874; and J. H. Wilson since 1878.
Coroners.
John Moore, 1816; Wd. Howard, 1818; Seih Converse,
1820 ; Andey Kinney, 1822; William Riggs, 1826; Thomas
Nelson, 1828; Fielder Burch, 1830; Seth Whitesice, 1S36;
Fisher Ditch, 1838; Jacob Troxel, 1844; L«aac Barker,
1846; H P. Rhodeu, 1872 ; Otto Kuehn, 1874; S. B Hil-
ton, 1876; Otto Kuehn, 1878; S. B. Hilton since 1880.
PERRY COUNTY.
The civil history of this county properly begins with the
passage, by the Fifth General Assembly of the state, held at
Vandalia, commencing on the fourth dav of December, 1826,
and closing on the nineteenth day of February, 1827, of the
"Act creating Perry county : —
Sec. 1. Be it enacted by the people of the state of Illinois,
represented in the General Assembly, that all that tract of
country within the following boundaries, to wit : Beginning
at the northeast corner of townshij) numbered four, south of
range numbered one west, thence due west, on the line be-
tween townsiiips three and four, twenty four miles to the
northwest, corner of township four south of range four west ;
thence due south, on the line between ranges four and five,
eighteen miles to the southwest, corner of township six south
of range four west, thence due east on the line between town,
ships six and seven twenty-four miles to the southeast corner
of township six south of range one west, thencedue north on
the third principal meridian line eighteen miles to the
place of beginning shall constitute a new county to be called
the county of Perry.
Sec. 2. That for the purpose of locating the permanent
seat of justice for said county, the following named persons
shall be, and they are hereby appointed commissioners, to
wit : Edward Humphreys and Samuel Crawford of Randolph
county, and Singleton Kimmel of Jackson county, whose
duty it shall be to meet at the house of Amos Anderson, in
said county, on or before the first Monday of April next,
and after being duly sworn before some judge or justice of
the peace of this state, faithfully and impartially to dis-
charge the duties imposed upon them by this act, shall pro-
ceed to determine upon a place upon which to locate the
permanent seat of justice, for said county : Provided, the
proprietor or proprietors of the land so selected, will give to
the county, for the purpose of enabling it to erect the neces-
sary public buildings, a quantity of land not less than twenty
acres; which said land shall be conveyed to the county com-
missioners of .said county and their successors in office, for
the use of the people of said county, by a good and sufficient
deed in fee simple, in the customary form, and with the usual
covenants of warranty ; and shall afterwards be laid out
into lota, and sold under the direction of the county com-
missioners of said county, at such times and upon such terms
as the said commissioners may ajipoint for the purpose of
enabling said county to erect the necessary public buildings
as aforesaid. Should the proprietor or proprietors, refuse to
162
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
make a donation as aforepaid, then, and in that case, it shall
be the duty of the commissioners to fix upon some other
place for the seat of justice, which place, when so fixed and
determined upon, shall be considered the permanent seat of
justice for said county ; and the county seat when so estab-
lished, shall be called Pinckneyville. And the said com-
missioners shall certify their proceedings, under their proper
hands and seals, to the first county commissioner's court, to
be held in and for said county ; which court shall cause an
entry thereof to be spread at large on their books of record.
Sec. 3. Until public buildings shall be erected, for the
purpose and designated by the county commissioner's court,
as such, the several courts of record, with the exception of
the probate couit, shall be held at the house of Amos An-
derson in said county.
Sec. 4. An election shall be held at the house of the
above named Amos Anderson, on the first Monday of May
next, for three county commissioners, one sheriff, and one
coroner, for said county, who shall hold their offices until
the next general election, and until their successors be quali-
fied : which said election, shall in all respects be conducted^
agreeably to the provisions of the act or acts now in force,
or which may hereafter be enacted regulating elections :
Provided, that the qualified voters of said county, when met
shall proceed to elect, from among their number which may
then be present, three qualified electors, to act as judges of
said election, who shall appoint two qualified voters to act as
clerks.
Sec. 5. It shall be the duty of the clerk of the circuit
court, who may be appointed for said county, to give public
notice of the time and place of holding said election, by caus-
ing advertisements to be set up at three of the most public
places in said county, at least fifteen days previous to the
day on which it is hereby directed to be held : and in case
there shall be no clerk appointed in time, it shall be the duty
of the recorder to give notice as aforesaid, of the time and
place of said election.
Sec. 6. The citizens of the said county of Perry shall be
and they are hereby declared to be entitled to the same rights
and privileges, as are or may be allowed in general to the
other counties in this state.
Sec. 7. That until the nest general apportoinment of the
representation of the several counties of this state, all that
part of the said county of Perry, which is hereby taken from
the county of Randolph, shall constitute a separate and
distinct precinct, which shall continue to vote with the county
of Randolph in all general and special elections for senators
and representatives to the general assembly of this state ;
and all that part which is taken from the county of Jackson,
shall for the like period, in like manner continue to vote
with the county of Jackson for representatives, and with the
counties of Franklin and Jackson for senators to the general
assembly, in all special and general elections, until other-
wise directed by law : Provided, that the said county of
Perry shall in all other elections, and for all other officers,
be entitled to vote as a free and independent county, without
any other or further restiiction, than is imposed upon other
counties in this state-. The said county of Perry shall be at-
tached to and form a part of the second judicial circuit.
Sec. 8. The said commissioners shall receive as a com pen"
sation for their services, the sum of one dollar and fifty
cents per day, for each day by them necessarily spent in
discharging the duti>s imposed upon them by this act, to be
allowed by the county commissioners' court, and paid out
of the county treasury.
This act to take effect from and after its passage.
NiNiAN Edwards,
Approved, January 2'"th, 1827. Governor.
This act, as it appears from the original manuscript in the
records now at Springfield, was signed by J. McLean,
Speaker of the House of Representatives, William Kinney,
Speaker of the Senate, and approved by the Council of Re-
vision on the 29th day of January, 1827, and signed by
Ninian Edwards, Governor of the State, at which time it
took effect and went into force.
1. Creating Perry County. — The county was named in
honor of Commodore Oliver H. Perry, who won great honors
for defeating the English squadron on Lake Erie, on the
tenth day of December, 1813. The severe naval battle, in
which he destroyed the British fleet was fought near Put-in-
Bay ; and his dispatch to General Harrison was, " We have
met the enemy and they are ours."
The house of Amos Anderson, at which the elections were
to be held, was situated on the west half of the southwest
quarter of section twenty- two, in township five, south range,
two west of the third principal meridian, and was a log cabin
common in those days.
First County offieers. — On the nineteenth day of the same
month and year, Theophilus W. Smith, associate justice ofthis
judicial district, being thesecondjudicial district in the State,
commissioned Humphrey B. Jones, circuit clerk of our
county, whose duty it was, under the 6th section of the act,
creating the county, to give at least fifteen days notice, by
causing advertisements to be set up at three of the most pub-
lic places in the county, of the election of three county com-
missioners, a sheriff and coroner as provided by the act, to
be held on the first Monday in May, 18'27. The records of
the county, however, contain no account of this election,
there being no records of any county election previous to
August 4th, 1828.
We are informed however, by Enoch Eaton, who was then
a legal voter, and now living, that an election was had in
the spring of 1827, pursuant to an order of H. B. Jones, cir-
cuit clerk, and that John R. Hutchings and William Adair
were two of the commissioners elected; the third one he does
not now remember; and that William C. Murphy and Joseph
W'ells were candidates for sherifl^ and that they each had an
equal number of votes, and upon casting lots, Joseph Wells
was the lucky aspirant for the office. Amos Anderson was
elec.ed coroner.
As usual in elections however with our people, and we
came by it honestly, there was considerable excitement and
feeling over the election, and Dr. Brayshaw, one of the dis-
satisfied ones, being no doubt on the losing side, raised a
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
1G3
point as to the legality of the election on the ground that
the circuit clerk instead of calling for the election to be held
at the house of Amos Anderson, as provided for in section
four of the act, had by his public advertisements, announced
the same at the house of George Franklin, who lived east of
south from the now present site of Pinckneyviile about a
mile, and at which last named place the election was held.
So persistent was Dr. Brayshaw in pronouncing the election
illegal, that in order to carry his point he went on horseback
to Vandalia, then the capital of the State, for the purpose
of procuring a copy of the act. What was the result of this
error of the clerk in thus calling the election contrary to the
provision of the act, we are unable to ascertain. That
^\ illiam Adair, whom we are informed by Mr. Enoch Eaton
was elected one of the commissioners under the first call for
an election, was not sworn in as the records show, leads us
to conclude that a second election was held the first year.
RECORD OF THE MEETING OF THE FIRST BOARD OF
COMMISSIONERS.
From the first record, it appears that John K. Hutching^'
David H. Mead and Elijah Wells met at the house of Amos
Anderson, who lived about two and one-half miles east of
the present site of Pinckneyville ; and on what is now the
Du Quoin and Pinckneyville road, and were there sworn into
office as county commissioners, on the fourth day of June,
1827, b)- Humphrey B. Jones, a justice of the peace, and
immediately held the first session of the county commissioners'
court. The first official act was the appointment of Hum-
phrey B. Jones as county clerk. He gave bond in the sum
of one thousand dollars, with Lewis Wells and Daniel Dry
as his sureties, took the oath of office and entered upon his
duties. For the office of treasurer there were two candidates,
Daniel Dry and Richard G. Hutchings. Daniel Dry re-
ceiving a majority of the votes of the commissioners, was
declared elected, and gave bond in the sum of one thousand
dollars, with Humphrey B. Jones and Lewis Wells as his
sureties, took the official oath, and was given the money box
of the county. At this same meeting, the commissioners
appointed James H. Franklin constable for the district west
of Beaucoup creek in said county, and Franklin gave bond
in the sum of five hundred dollars, with William C. Murjjhy
as his surety at the same time. The following orders were
made the same day :
E/fcrio)t diftrirU.—" Ordered, that in pursuance of the act
entitled " An act to provide for the election of justices of
the peace and constables; the county of Perry be divided
into districts as follows, to wit: All that tract of country
lying east of Beaucoup creek in said county shall constitute
and compose one district to be denominated the Eastern
District ; and all that country in said county west of said
Beaucoup creek shall form another district to be called the
Western District."
" Ordered, That Robert McElvain, Charles C. Glover and
Abner Pyle be, and they are hereby appointed judges of the
election for justices of the peace and constables in the Ea.>-t-
ern District of this county ; and that Thomas Swanwick,
sr., William H. Threlkel and James Crane be and they are
hereby appointed judges of the election of justices of the
peace and constables for the Western District of this
county "
AKse.fsment of Properly. — Ordered, That a ta.x of one third
per cent, be levied on all town lots, which are not taxed by
the trustees, which may be appointed to the town of Pinck-
neyville; on all slaves and indentured negroes or mulatto
servants; on pleasure carriages; on all distilleries ; on stock
in trade ; on all horses, mares, mules, asses and neat cattle
above three years of age ; and on watches with their appen-
dages ; and on bank stock."
" Ordered, That the court adjourn until to-morrow morn-
ing, nine o'clock." Tne cjm nissioners met in session the
follosving day and appointed the following named citizens
as the
First Grand Jurors. — " Ordered by the court that John
Campbell, Jr.. Avery Chapman, Lewis Wells, Jr., William
Troop, Sr., John Pyle, Sr. , Robert McElvain, John G.
Simpkins, William Pyle, Sr., John Berry, Amos Ander-
son, Robert Huggins, William Elliott, Jonathan Pettit,
John Hutchings, Robert B. Murphy, William H Threlkel,
Richard G. Murphy, James Brown, sr., Richard Green,
William Adair, Charles Garner, John Flack, Robt-rt Crowe,
James Crane, be and they are hereby appointed standing
Grand Jurors to serve at the next August term of the Perry
Circuit Court, and the clerk of this court issue a venire
therefor.
First Pdit Jurors. — Ordered by the cjurt, that Jonathan
Foster,iIames Simpkins, Joseph Taylor, James West, Joseph
Brayshaw, Joseph Wells, John Pyle, Jr., Lswis Wells, Sr ,
William Pyle, Jr., Abner Pyle, Enoch Eaton, James Hug-
gins, Thomas Swanwick, Jr., Epiiraim Bilderback, James
Murphy, William (xarner, Hugh Brown, Matthew Vaun,
Benjamin F. Brown, Jacob Short, R ibert F. Clark, John
Brown, Jr., Shadrach Lively and James Brown, Jr., be and
the same are hereby appointed standing Traverse jurors, to
serve at the next August term of the Perry circuit court,
and that the clerk of this court issue a venire therefi)r.
John Pyle, Jr., was appointed constable in the Eastern
District, and gave bond in the sum of five hundred do'lars,
with William Pyle^ Sr.. as surety.
First Order for Road. — Whereas, a petition signed by
William Pyle, Sr , H. B. Jones, Lewis Wells and others,
amounting to eighteen, has been presented to this court,
praying for a road to be viewed and marked, to commence
at the road leading from Shawneetown to St. Louis, at or
near where said road enters the east edge of what is called
Paradise prairie, thence running the nearest and best route
to Beaucoup creek, and to cross said creek at the nearest
good ford thereon to the centre of this county, thence the
nearest and best route to what is called " Willards road,"
where the same leaves the west edge of the six mile prairie.
Ordered, by the court, that the prayer of said petitioners
be granted, and that William Pyle, Sr., David H. Mead
and Amos Anderson, be and are hereby appointed to view
and mark said road from the St. Louis road to Beaucoup
creek, and that John Hutchings, George Franklin and
Robert B. Murphy, be and they are hereby appointed com-
104
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
niisbioucrs to view and mark said road from Beaucoiip creek
to " Willard's road," where it passes out of the west end of
the six mile prairie, according to the provisions of the fore-
going order.
Firt>t License to keep a Tavern. — Amos Anderson applied
for a license to keep a tavern or public house of entertain-
ment, at his house in the county for one year.
Ordered, that his request be granted on his giving bond
according to law and paying for the use of the county, one
dollar and fifty cents, the clerk's fees for the same.
Ordered, that the court adjourn one hour.
Court met pursuant to adjournment, and passed the fol-
lowing schedule of charges for Amos Anderson :
Ordered, that the following be the rates and prices to be
paid or demanded by tavern keepers, within this county,
for liquors, lodging, diet, stableage, provender, pasturage,
&c , to wit :
For whisky, twelve and a half cents per half pint; for
rum or brandy, wine, gin, peach or apple brandy, or cherry
bounce, eighteen and three quarter cents; for lodging, six
and one quarter cents per night ; for breakfast and supper,
eighteen and three-quarter cents ; for dinner, twenty-five
cents; for feeding horse, beast, twelve and one-half cents;
keeping .'ame per night, thirty-seven and one-half cents ; for
pasturage for horse, beast, si.x and one-quarter cents per
head for each day or night ; pasturage for neat cattle, hogs
or sheep, four ceuts per head for each day or night.
First Polls. — Ordered, that the election for justices of the
peace and constables for the Eastern District of thi^ county,
be held at the house of William Pyle, Sr., and that the
election for the same in the Western District, be held at the
house of Robert B. Murphy.
Ordered, that the court adjourn until court in course.
j. r. hutchinus,
David H. Mead,
Elijah Wei.ls.
First Session of the Perry Circuit Court.— 7he next sub-
ject to attract the attention of the reader in order of date,
is the first session of the circuit court for the new county.
The original records show that the session was but of one
day's duration, and the principal acts were as follows:
At a session of the circuit court, begun and held at the
house of Amos Anderson, in the county of Perry, state of
Illinois, on the twenty-eighth day of August, Anno Domini,
1827.
Present: The Hon. Theophilus W. Smith, a justice of the
supreme court of said state, and presiding judge of said
circuit court. Himphkey B. Jones, clerk.
AVilliam C. Mi'RPHY, sheriff.
Humphrey B. Jones, the clerk of this court, produced in
coprt his bond with Richard J. Hamilton, John A. Jones
and Conrad Will, his securities, in the penal sum of two
thousand dollars, payable to the governor of the state, for
the faithful discharge of the duties of his office, which bond
and security was approved by the court, and was ordered
to be certified accordingly.
William C. Murphy, as sheriif of the county, produced in
court his bond, which wa« approved and certified accordingly.
The bond was for tlie sum of ten thousaud dollars, with
William Adair, William H. Threlkel, Hugli Brown, George
Franklin and Robert B. Murphy, as sureties. The bond
sets forth that William C. Murphy was elected on the 7lh
of May, 1827. Murphy also took the " duel " oath, and
filed his commission, signed by Niniau Edwards, Gov-
ernor.
The sheriff returned into court the grand jurors (men-
tioned in a previous part of this chapter) with the exception
of four who were absent ; thereupon the court appointed
Richard Green, foreman. The said grand jury being sworn
to inquire for the body of the county of Perry, were charged
by his honor the judge, and retired to consider present-
ments. David J. Baker was appointed in the absence of the
circuit attorney, Henry Eddy, to prosecute as said attorney
pro tern. The following business was then transacted :
The People of the State of Illinois, Pllff. )
vs.
William Pyle, Sr., Deft. )
Upon a recognizance taken and returned by a justice ox
the peace to this court, the witnesses in said cause were
severally called, and having answered, were directed to go
before the trrand jury. The grand jury was empaneled, but
were discharged without presenting any indictments, and
there being no other business, the court adjourned upon the
first day thereof.
Siiailar orders wire nade in cases of the same character
agsi'jst John Pv'.e, Jr. David Pyle and Abner Pyle, Jr.
Robert McElifaiD, John G- Simpkins, John Flack and
William Elliott, who were severally summoned to attend
the term of this court as grand jurors, and having failed to
attend, it is Ordered that a summons issue against said de-
linquent grand jurors, returnable to the next term of this
court, requiring the said McElvain, Simpkins, Flack and
Elliott to show cause why they should not be fined for
" contempt of this court in making default in their atten-
dance as aforesaid."
In the cases of the People against William Pyle, Sr.,
David Pyle, Abner Pyle, Jr., and John Pyle, Jr., upon a
recognizance to keep the peace, the following order was
made :
In the above causes the defendants being called and ap-
pearing, and as it appeared to the court from the statement
of the party complaimint and upon whose application said
defendants were recognized, that the causes of complaint no
longer existed, it was thereupon, Ordered by the court that
the defendants be discharged from their said recognizances.
Ordered, That the court adjourn until court in course.
W. T. Smith, Justice Sup. Court.
Circuit Court, Auyust Term, 1828.— Nothing being done
at the first session of the circuit court, a second session was
convened at the same place, and with the same officfrs, in
August, 1828. The docket for that ttim consisted of ac-
tions for contempt against Robert McElvain, John G.
Simpkins, William Elliott and John Flack, delinquent
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
k;.-)
grand jurors of the previous term, and two cases ou appeal
in debt — one of Jeisse W. Cooper rs. Ambrose Ford, and the
other S. Wills, administrator of M. Dillinger, deceased, rs.
John Flack, both of \vhi(;h were coutiuucd. On the ITlh of
June judgment was rendered against Robert McElvain for
costs; and on the 20th of the same month the same order
was entered against Wdliam Elliott and John Flack, while
that against John G. Simpkins was continued. On the
same docket and at the same term, we find the names of
Reynolds, Wills, McRoberts, Breese, Baker, Hamilton and
Eddy entered as attorneys.
As an example of the inexpeusiveness of litigation in
those early days, we append a copy of an early cost bill iu
an appeal cause of Matthew Jones and Francis Miller rs.
Abner Pyle, Jr., which was affirnied by consent at the
May term of the circuit court, 18o7 :
COST BILL IN CIRCUIT COURT, 1837.
Matthew JoTics iiiid Franci.s Miller)
vs. ■ Appe;il.
Abner Pyle, Jr. J
Oust 6v DefaitUint, M(i>j Term, 18.37.
Clerks filing transcripts and papers from J. P. an.l taking l>.>nil, etc., 511
cts. : filing bon«l, 6^4 i-ts., b&\^
Filing injiinotiiin, C'i ets. ; .approving, \>y, ets ; Entering :itturney,
liHcts " 31'/4
Docketing, \i.\i cts.; bill of cos , 2,1 ctf.; certifying and sealing same,
50 cts s.V/i
Summnns, .W cts. ; fil.ng, 6% cts. ; filing bill of post,", 6^ cts., 63><
Docketing, 12)/2 cts. ; sherilTs return, 12^ ct.s 25
Tolal t-i cji -
SiATROP Illinois, )
Perry lounty. / '■
I hereby certify that the foregoing is a true bill ..f the ilel'en(1:\nfs posts in
this case, and that the same was adjudged a.iiainst said defendant by tlie cir-
cuit court at their May term, 1S.-57
Given under niy hand and private seal, no public seal being provided, at
Pinckneyville, this L'Olh day of June, 1S3T. II. B. Joxes, Clerk.
SECOND MEETINC OF COMMISSIONERS COURT.
The second se^sion of the county commissioners' court
lasted but one day, the third day of September, 1^27 ; Elijah
Wells, David II. Mead, and Jolin R. Hutchings being
present, and transacting the following business:
Daniel Dry was granted a license to keep a tavern ; and
also allowed the sum often dollars for assessing the taxable
property of the county, the time reiiuired being seven days.
THE FIRST RO.\I).
The commissioners appointed at the June term reported
that they believed the establishment of the road to be useful
and necessary, and that they had proceeded to locate the
same and have designated its course through prairies by fix-
ing stakes iu the ground, and through timbered land by
marking the trees at a convenient di.itance from each other
on said route.
FIRST ROAD DISTRICTS AND ROAD OFFICERS.
Ordered, Tiiat all that tract of country, beginning at the
southwest corner of section sixteen, town six, south range
two west, thence due east to the third principal meridian
line, thence north on said line to the northeast corner of
township five, south of range one west, thence due west on
the line between townships four and five to where the same
crosses Beaucoup creek, thence down said creek to the i)lace
of beginning, thall be, and constitute a road district, and be
known as the Upper Eastern District ; and Daniel Dry is
hereby appointed supervisor of the same.
The Lower Eastern District comprised all that p<irtic)n of
the county lying within the following boundaries : beginning
at the southwest corner of section sixteen, thence due east to
the principal meridian line, thence south with said line to
the southeast corner of township six, thence due west on the
line between townships six and seven to where the same
crosses Beaucoup creek, thence up said creek to the point of
starting, Abner Pyle, sr,, was ajipointed supervisor of this
district.
The third district was known as the Lower Western
District, and embraced all that territory bounded by a
line commencing at the southwest corner ofj section six,
township six, thence due east to Beaucoup creek, theuce
down said creek to the line between townships six and seven,
thence due west with said line to the southwest corner of
township six, and thence due north to the place of beginning.
Robert Gillihau was appointed supervisor.
The remainder of the county constituted the last district,
and was known as the Upper Western District, and William
H. Threlkel was the supervisor.
Charles C. Glover, John M. Campbell, jr., and James
West were appointed overseers of the poor for the Eastern
District of the county ; and Thomas Swanwick, Charles
Garner, and William Brown for the Western.
Humphrey B. Jones was allowed five dollars ami fifty
cents in specie or its equivalent for books and stationer'- ;
and Amos Anderson two dollars and fifty cents for house
rent to date.
FIRST PROCEEDINGS IN RELATION TO THE ESTACLISH.M ENT
OF COU.VTY SEAT,
At the request of a number of the citizens of the county
by petition, James Crain, Abner Pyle, sr., and Thomas
Swanwick met at the house of George Franklin ou the twen-
ty-second of October, 1X27; and after an examination of a
certain section of country designated by said petitioners,
reported to the county court ou the twenty-ninth of October,
\i>'H, that they believe the east half of the northeast quarter
of section twenty-four in town.ship five south, range thrie
west of the third princijml meriiiian, to be the " mo:t eligible
and best calculated for the permanent seat of justice of this
county."
In pursuance of which an order was made adoi)ting said
tract of land as the "site for the future seat of justice fur
the county;' and appointing Joel Manning, of Jackson
county, and William T. Swanwick and Humphrey B. Jonts
commissioners, to lay out twenty acres of said tract into lots
■'with a public square, streets and alleys so that the whole
sh'jU be conveniently and properly situated and arranged in
conformity with the most approved plan of towus or villages
similarly situated."
As yet the land had not l)een entered from the govern-
ment At the December term, 1827, an agreement was
made that the land should be entered in the name of the
county commissioners, H. B. Jones, or some other person to
furnish half the money, and to receive a deed to the south
half of the tract.
166
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
William C. Murphy was appointed agent to make the
entry, and on the third day of December, 1827, ao order
drawn in his favor for fifty dollars in specie or its equivalent
in state paper at the rate of seventy-five cents to the dollar,
and was afterwards paid the discount, five dollars aud twenty
cents, and the amount due from Humphrey B. Jones was
advanced out of funds placed in his hands by parties in
Kentucky for the purpose of speculating in lands. The
money was placed iu the hands of William C. Murphy, who
proceeded to Kaskaskia, and on the twenty-eighth day of
December, 1827, entered the tract in the name of the county
commissioners David H. Mead, John R Hutchings, and
Elijah Wells. The south half of said tract, excepting a
small part included in the original survey of Pinckueyville,
was afterwards conveyed to Humphrey B. Jones.
The commissioners, who were instructed at the time of
their appointment, to so lay oft" the twenty acres that there
miffht be two tiers of lots on each side of the public square,
made their report to the county commissioners on the fifth
dav of January, 1828 ; but it was not placed on record until
the twenty-first day of that month.
RETORT OF COMJirSSIOSERS TO PLAT THE TOWN.
In pursuance of the order of said court, and by virtue of
the power vested in va as commissioners aforesaid, we met
at the house of H. B. Jones, in said county, on the third
instant, and after a critical and thorough examination of
ihe ground to which we were limited in laying off' the said
town, proceeded aud made the following survey, to wit:
Beginning at the half mile corner between sections thirteen
and twenty-four of the town and range aforesaid, from
which a hickory, twelve inches in diameter, bears south
forty-seven degrees, east thirty links, thence south upon the
east line of the northwest quarter of section twenty-four,
town five south, range three west, seven chains and eighty
links to a post oa said line, thence west one chain and fifty
links to a post, from which last mentioned point we pro-
ceeded, and surveyed and laid off" a town, consisting of a
public square, town lots, streets, etc., which is particularly
exhibited, set forth and described on a plat, which we hereby
make a part of this, our report. The whole of said survey
was made with a variation of the needle of seven and a half
degrees west. The twenty acres mentioned in the said order
being laid off" sixty-four rods north and south, by fifty rods
east aud west, and disposed of so far as exhibited on the
plat. There stillremains a strip of ground of fifteen feet wide
'upon the west side and one of one hundred an<l twelve feet
wide upon the north side, subject to future dispo.sal.
All of which is respectfully submitted. Perry county,
January 5th, 1828.
Signed. Joel Manning.
H. B. Jones.
The county commissioners court at its session of January
21st, 1828, approved the report of the commissioners to plat
and survey the town site, and on the same day passed the
following order :
First Sale of Town Lots. — Ordered, That H. B. Jones,
John R. Hutchings and William C. Murphy be, and they
are hereby appointed commissioners to sell the lots in said
town, and that the same be exposed to sale to the highest
bidder on the fourth Monday of February next, an i that
the time, place, nature, etc., of said sale be published in the
I/Uiuiis Cjrrector for three weeks preceding said sale, and
that the clerk be and he is hereby required to issue hi-s order
on the treasurtr of this county for a sum of money sufficient
to pay for the said publication.
Ordered, That all the lots in said town be exposed to sale
on the said fourth Monday of February, 1828, except lots
numbered 32 and 29, aud that no lot or lots shall be sold
for a less sum than five dollars, which is hereby estab-
lished as the minimum price of said lots; and that David
H. Mead, or in case of his absence on the day of sale, Elijah
Wells, is hereby appointed and constituted agent for the
purpose of bidding off" said lots for the benefit of this county
in case any of them should not be purchased by another
person or other persons fur more than the said sum of five
dollars.
Ordered, That the lots iu said town be sold on a credit
as follows, to wit: One-half the purchase money to be paid
iu six months and the other half in nine months, the pur-
chaser being required to give bond and approved security.
The lots were sold at the appointed time, and §1223. 28i
realized from the sale of twenty-four lots.
The bill for advertising sale of lots was SI 0.50 " in specie or
its equivalent in State paper." K. K. Fleming was the
publisher.
First Collection of Ta.ves 1627 — The statement of William
C. Murphy, sheriff" aud collector, of amount of taxes collected
by him, shows the names of the taxpayers, fifty -one in
number and the amounts paid by each, ranging from S9.26l
down to 2J cents, the total amount being S74.ll, an aver-
age of SI. 45 i each.
Early Retrenchment— December, 1831. J. R. Hutchings
presented a bill of S25 for assessing the county and for
commission as treasurer, " but the court being of the opinion
that the charge, * * *, was extravagant, and ought not to be
allowed in full," the sum of 822.82 was allowed
Probably the smallest claim allowed against Perry
county was that of 6i c<-nts, for ink for general election,
furnished by John R. Hutchings, allowed December, 1834.
David Baldridge was appointed commisioner to dispose of
the school lands, in 1831.
First Justices of tlie Peace — Humphrey B. Jones, George
Franklin and Lewis Wells, Sr., were the first justices of
the peace in the county. They were commissioned on the
sixteenth day of February, 1827, sworn into office May 8th,
1827, and their term expired October 1, 1827. Atthesecoud
election John R. Hutchings, Humphrey B. Jones. Richard
G. Murphy, Daniel Dry andRobert McElvain were chosen
and commissioned September 6tii, 1827, for a term of two
years. David H. Mead was commissioned June 30, 1828.
First Assessment — The first assessment made of the county
cannot be better shown than by appending the receipt of
he clerk for the same. It is as follows : " Received of
Daniel Dry, treasurer of Perry county, a list of the resident
land of Perry county, Illinois, that is taxable for the year
HISTORY OF L'AXDOLJ'H, MOXROE AXD PKRRY COrXTIKS, ILLIXOIS.
107
1827, assessed by him, tlie tax on which amounts to sixty-
seven dollars and twelve cents, and likewise a list of the
personal property taxed by the county commifsioners' court
of said county, the tax on which at one-third per centum
amounts to tij^ht dollars and twenty-two and one-third
cents. July -3d, lJ^-7. II. B. Jon'ks,
C. C. C. P. C.
Fird FUcnl Stalemcid — The firi-t financial statement of
the county was made on the third day of December, 1S27,
by Daniel Dry, treasurer, in settling with William C.
^lurphy, sheriff, iiud was as follows :
liectived from William C. Murphy, j-herill':
I" Spc-ie
Ill Stiici- liuper and iiiiercst uii yat
III ceriitii-ates liiid county orders .
U. U. .l..,u-^, IM,
J. U. lluMiiiig.-. ;
Llijah Will-, M-iv
liiiMU II. M.iid, »e
Total paid Mill SII.i>:%
Leaving a balance of 803 371, which was especially
api)ropriateil and ordered paid over to William C. jMnrphy,
for the |)urpose of eniering the land for ihe county seat.
V.\K\.\ ,MA1!I!IA(.E LICENSES.
Dntt of Ufii'-. f.iriu •. l\u l,j iHrfurmuui '\r. ,«n'i!/. Dnle nf Mitirimje.
Nov. IT, Ij-'-'T. Alexaiid.i 11 :,ik !■■ Eliiirll WVII-. l'... Com. Nov. '», ISL'T.
IIillii r.'a.£il..,
Dec 24, ISiT. Iliniii. M... i.> .l.dm I!. Iliit.-liiii|-s J. P. Doc. 2."., 1827.
Man- .\im HilLliiilgs,
Julvli, ISiS. lila.'Un.ll i.i..i..h..i lo iMvid H. M.-ad.fo.Com. July 13, 1828.
.Malll.da .M.i..,«aii.
Feb. Hi, 182!i. Uiiiii..|.l Ml^'id 1., .lolin Wood I!.>mp, Feb. 28, 1829.
Lhzii 1). rriin:l..li. lip. B. ''. C.
M»rch 2, lS2'.l. U.Miv Amki-.n lo liloliard ij. Murphy,, I. P. .March 3, 1S20.
.Ma.l.'iv.
March T, 18.11, ,l..lui Hr..\ni lo Humph
Manila 11 luithani.
June 2.i, 182:i. .l..ci inuu i . Ilumpli
Auc. 31, 182'.). A.li laii Vai. WiiiU-lc
Ka-u-r llaiik«.
Nor. 18, 1820. I'cur 11. » lIUs lo
J»n. G, 18.W, Hcuja
(■a^.va1
Jan. 2,'i, 18,'W. John ;
■py H..lonc-..l.I'. March 12, ls.»i
rcy H. Jones, .1.1'. June 2.-., Is2'.i.
Iluniplircy H,J..ncs,J, P, July ::u, imi.
Iiavid H.Mcad.ro.C.m. Sept, it, 1s2'.i,
Ilmupliny ll.Joiics,J.I'. .Nov. 10, l.v.'O.
Iliiuipllicy H.J..11CS, I.I>. lie.'. 21, I.SJO.
Huiuphv.-y H.,l(MU-s,J.P. .hiu. T, l«:',n.
Hanicl lliy, J.P. Jall.2t;. IK.lii.
Hicharrt II. Murphy, J I',
Wm Johnson, Co. Com. Feb. 2.S 18.3U.
Fird Deal p/nccil on Record after tlir ('niiiifii >rM orrjaulzed.
The following is the first deed put on record in Perry
county ; it was made by William Pyle, Sr,, and wife to
Daniel Dry ; it contained thirty-five acres, the consideration
being two hundred dollars :
This Indenture, made this tiiirtcenth day of .\ugu.-t, in the
year of our Lord one thousand eight hundred and twenty-
seven, by and between William Pyle, Sr., and his wife
Elizaiietii, of Perry county and State of Illinois, of the one
part, and Daniel Dry, of the couniy and State aforesaid, of
the other part, Witmaadh: That the said William Pyle, Sr,,
and his wife Elizabeth, for and in consideration of the sum
of two hundred dollars, to them in hand jiaid by the said
Daniel Dry, the recei|)t whereof is hcreity acknowledged,
hath granted, sold, remised, released and lorever ipiit claim
and bv the.se presents doth grant, sell, remise, rehase and
forever quit ehiim, unto the said Daniel Dry, his heiis and
assigns, all their interest in and to a certain triict of land.
lying and being situated in the county of Perry and State
afore^aid,and bounded l)y the following medes and bounds, to
wit: Beginning at the .'ioutliwest corner of section twelve in
range two west town six south of the tliird principal meri-
dian, running thence north seventy rods, thence tast eighty
rods, thence si nth seventy rods, thence west to the beginning,
so as to contain thirty-five acres. To have and to hold the
aforesaid tract of land, together with all and singular the
rights and profil-i, tenements, hereditaments and appurte-
nances thereunto belonging or in any wise appertaining to
the only proper use and benefit to him. the said Daniel Dry,
his heirs and assigns forever And the said William Pyle,
Sr., and his wife Kli/.abeth, doth covenant to and with tl e
said Daniel Dry, that they will forever warrant and defiiid
the said tract of land from the claim of themselves, their
heirs and assigns and against the claim or claims of any
other person or per.sons whomsoever.
In testimony, we have hereunto set our hands and afhxed
our seals the day and year above first written,
Wi;,i,i.\.\t PvLE, Si:., [l.. s.]
Signed, sealed and Ki.i/.aki-.tii' x Pyi.e. [i.. s.]
delivered in jiresence of n.ark
H. B. .Tones',
John Pyle, Jk,
This deed was duly acknowledged August 20th, 1S27,
before II. B. Jones, J. P.
Flrd Will on Rrrnrd (,1829). The following is the last
will and testament of Thomas Swanwick :
I give to my dear wifi;'. Hannah Swanwick, all my pro-
perty of every kind, real and [lersonal, wherever situated, to
her and her heirs forever, being fully satisfied that in so
doing I best consult the intt rests and ha j .pine, s of my dear
children.
I appoint my said wife and (my eldest son, John, being in
England) my two sons Thomas and William guardians of
niv younger cliildreii, and executrix and executors of this
my "will. D.ite.l llii> filtli day of July, 1«29,
Thomas Swanwick. [i.. s.]
Signed in the prc.-enee of
Lewis Minipisox, [i,. s.]
.Iames McMvrdo. [i,. s.]
Thomas Swanwick died on the 26th day of July, 1829.
The will was filed in the iiroUate court, by Thomas and
William Swanwick, on the 12ih day of August, 1»29, and
proven the same day by .lames McMurdo, and by Lewis
Morrison on the 10th day of September, the same year. The
executrix and executors named in ihc will gave bond in tiie
sura of S4,OltO, and certificate of probate and letters testa-
mentary were granted on the 17tli of October, 1829.
EIKST I'KOIiATE COIUT.
The first olheial act of this court was the apprenticing of
a minor, and the order entered was as follows:
At a term of the Probate Court of Perry County Illinois,
begun and held at the house of Humphrey B. Jones, in and
for said County on Monday the 1 llh liay of February, 1828.
Present: Humphrey B Jones, Judge. It being represent-
ed to the court by Charles C. Glover, that Alexander Head,
infiint son of , has no parent or guardian in this State :
Whereupon the said Alexander Head came into court and
voluntarily and with the approbation and consent of this
court, bound himself to the said Charles C. Cilover, until the
said Alexander shall attain to the age of twenty-one years,
which will be on or ah nit the Uth day of March A. D. \>^'6l.
h! B. Jones, Judge.
168
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
The apprentice soon complained to the court on account
of not being furnished with suitable raiment, and asked to
be released. The court gave the complaint immediate and
careful attention, and found the charge to be well founded,
and compelled the master to furnish suitable clothing, but
refused to release the apprentice.
The first letters of guardianship were granted to David
H. Mead on the thirteenth of April, 1830, as guardian of
David, Mahala, and Elizabeth McGowan, and their sister
Malinda Gotcher.
On the first day of Februa'y 1831, the first letters of ad-
ministration were grant'^d to Martha Malone, widow, and
Staples Malone, on the estate of Lewis Malone deceased.
A bond fir two hundred dollars, dated January 21st, 1831,
with William Neal and John Beard as sureties, was filed.
On the second of the following March, Staples Malone filed
an inventory of the estate, and James Ford, John Hansford
and Solomon Thompson were appointed appraisers. The
second letters of administration were granted to John R.
Hutchings and the widow, Elizabeth Berry, on the estate of
John F. Berry, deceased. At a special term of the Probate
Court, on the twenty first of March, 1831. The admfhistra-
tors gave bond in the sum of nine hundred dollars, with
Amos Anderson, David Baldridge, and James Hoggins, se-
curities. Abner Keith, Matthew Jones, and Reuben Kelly
were appointed appraisers. At a special term of the court,
held at the house of the judge, September 24th, 1831, an in
ventory was filed showing the condition of the estate to be
as follows :
Amount of sale li-t on file S-W.M
Debts due the intestate ii33,.8
Total assets $807 27
Total amounts of claims allowed .269.ai!^
Leaving a bal.ance in favor of the estate of Jo37.8sJ^
Of this balance 1447,57 J was in notes which were filed
witw the judge.
At the second election of Justices and Constables, there
seems to have been some trouble at the polls of the Eastern
District, and the following
PETITION FOR REUKESS
was filed in the commissioners court on the second day of
June, 1828.
" To the Honorable County Commissioner's Court ] ^^,
of Perry county, Illinois. )
Whereas the county commissioner's court of Perry county
hath established the house of William Pyle, sr., the perma-
nent place of holding elections for justices of the peace and
constables in the eastern district of the county and state
aforesaid and the said William Pyle and his sons having
disturbed the public peace at several elections held at the
said house of William Pyle by threatening to fight and abuse
some of the qualified voters who appeared ; in order to enjoy
the Rights of liberty that is guaranteed to the free people of
the United States and in order to promote the welfare of
the people and protect the liberty of the voters at large
therefore we your humble petitioners pray your honorable
body to remove the present place of holding elections and
order the elections to be held at some other place in the
named district where people will not be imposed or molested
when actually exercising their liberty and promoting the
welfare of their country by making a free choice in electing
their officers for which removal we your humble petitioners
are ever bound to pray, etc. May 24th, 1828."
(Signed.) Daniel Dry.
Robert McElvain, Jiles Wells, William Dye, Lewis
Wells, sr., EliasFord.B. F. Bender, John Leemasters, Lewis
Wells, William Throop, sr., William Throop, jr., Caleb
Throop, James West, Andrew Perkins, Micajah Phelps,
Zachariah Clinton, John Campbell, Alexander Campbell,
Joseph Terry Williams, Abraham Cokenower, David Rees,
John Craneshaw and David Diel.
The court refused the petition first, because the allega-
tions set forth in the said petition are not sufficiently proven
and secondly because the said petition was not signed by a
majority of the qualified voters in the said eastern district.
The first charge of official crookedness was a suit ordered
to be brought against Dan. Dry, J. P., for failure to p^y over
a certain fine collected of Lewis Wells, sr.
William Pyle, sr., was appointed to prosecute said suit;
and nine dollars was recovered. Considering that the fore-
going patriotic petition was headed by Daniel Dry, and that
there had been a change in the commissioner's court, a new
Board being now in power, the idea of a feud is suggested
by this action.
revenue collected — 1829.
The first report upon record concerning collection of
county revenue is for the year 182!t. The amount collected
and paid over to the treasurer by William C. Murphy, high
sheriff in and for this county is as follows :
In county orders 8G5.1'2V, In specie 1.25
In re-1 -sited state paper . . 62. wi _
after deducting the legal per centum.
FIRST GENERAL ELECTION.
On the second day of June, 1828, the county commis-
sioners ordered that the voters of that portion of the county
which had been formed from Jackson county should vote at
the house of John Flack, and appointed William Brown,
Charles Green and Lewis Wells, jr., as judges of the general
election to be held on the fourth day of August, 1828 ; and
that those voters in the territory formerly belonging to Ran-
dolph county, should vote at the place selected and laid out
for the county seat, and appointed as judges, Robert B.
Murphy, George Franklin and Van S. Teague. For member
of Congress, Joseph Duncan received eighty-one, and Geo.
Forquer, twelve votes For State Senator, in the Randolph
district that portion which had been taken from Randolph
county in the organization of Perry county, Samuel Craw-
ford received thirty five votes, and Isaiah T. Belts six votes.
For Representative to the General Assembly, John Lacey
received thirty-one votes ; Hypolite Menard, thirty-six, and
Thomas Mather, sixteen. For the county offices, William
C Murphy received sixty-six ; and Giles Wells, twenty-one
votes for sheriff. For coroner, Amos Anderson received
fifty-three votes and Ambrose A. Ford, six votes. The
county commissioner's office seems to have been the favorite
official position in those days, as there were no less than
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
10!)
seven candidates, and but three to elect. For this office,
William H. Threlkel had seveuty four votes ; Wm. Johnson,
fixty-live ; John Pyle, jr., sixty; Charles C. Glover, nine;
Wm. T. Garner, twenty-eight ; Wm. Adair, five ; and Wm.
Pyle, two.
THE FIRST BRIDGE
Built by the county authorities seems to have been built
in 1830orl8.Sl across Big Beaucoup creek just east of Pinck-
neyville.
The bridge was to be sixteen feet wide, and some of the
timbers were 12x15 inches ; and the flooring of plank or
puncheons so laid on as to make it safe and convenient for
carriages and passengers to pass and repass with convenience
and safety. The bridge was to be built by contract, the
contractor to give bonds and insure the bridge for five
years. Joseph Wells built the bridge.
In 1S31 licenses to sell goods were granted bv the com-
missioners' court, for a fee of five dollars, to Daniel Dry,
David Baldiidge and Limrick & Demming.
lOPY OF ROAD PETITION.
The following was filed in the county clerk's office, De-
cember 4th, 1837 :
" To the. Honorable County Commis-iioners' Court of Perry
County, (ireeting :
Whereas there is a reputed public road through our ntigh-
borhood, the course of which is such that it crosses indivi-
dual lands for three or four miles on a stretch, and wanders
through the prairie nobody knows where, and finally dies
before it gets to little Muddy ; the public utility of this road
answers no other purpose but to mar the peace of the settle-
ment ; it affords no relief to travellers in its present course
and length. Therefore, we, the undersigned petitioners, sin-
cerely solicit your honorable body to disannul the former
review and grant us a new one, running with the old one
from Beaucoup to Mr. Lane's mill, thence through Elijah
Wells' land between the house and shop, thence, to a half
mile corner ea.'t, thtnce cast to Kobert McElvain's north-
east corner in the prairie, thence through the prairie on the
best ground to intersect the post road to Frankfort.
On a road by these points travellers can pass and repass
in peace and have intercourse with public roads to the east
and to the west.
The cause of our petition is great, the remedy so natural and
easy to be applied, and when it is completed the traveller will
be benefited and the neighborhood will be blest; therefore,
we, your humble petitioners, confidently trust that your hon-
orable body will apply the proper remedy, and for this vour
petitioners will ever i>ray.
Bennet Lane, E'ijah Wells, Robert McElvain, Thomas
Keeling, Abner Pyle, sr., Lihew Onstott, William Wooten,
Joseph Taylor, Elijah Lane, John King, Richard Williams,
Joseph H. McElvain, Avery Chapman, Samuel Md^Hvain,
John H. Creekpaum, D. H Mead, Abner Pyle, jr., Hiram
Root, George W. Gill, Paris A. Hickman, John D. Burklow,
Lewis Wells, J. G. Clark, Roann Bowlin, George Lishnian,
John Pyle, Andrew Rw, William O^burn, Van M. Teague,
Jeremiah Collins, Josiah Wells, Lewis Wells, jr., L. Berrv
22
Ford, Elias Ford, John House, S. M. Woodside, D. Bald-
ridge, Thomas Armstrong, M. Bald ridge."
At the same time that the order for the sale of the lots
was made, the following order was passed regarding the
building of a court house on the corner west of the Public
Square now occupied by the old saddlery shop.
THE FIRST COURT HOUSE.
" Ordered, That at the same time when and the place
where the lots in the said county seat are offered for sale,
there shall be by the aforesaid commissions let to the lowest
bidder the building of the court house on lot numbered 32 in
said town, which house is to be built of the following descrip-
tion and dimensions, to wit :
The said house to be built of hewn log', which are to face
from ten to twelve inches in the middle; and to be eighteen
by twenty-two feet in length. The lower floor in said court
house to be laid with good puncheons with good hewn joists,
but no floor above; to be covered with clapboards; with a
door furnished with a shutter and good knob or stock lock
in the east end, and a window of twelve lights, ten inches by
twelve, in the west end. Also a platform sufficiently elevated
for a seat for the judge, with steps leading thereto, and like-
wise a suitable but plain bar and table. The said judge's
seat and bar to be placed in the said west end of the said
court house. A good and sufficient bench or seat shall be
placed by the side of said bar extending the whole length
thereof, the whole to be executed, completed and finished ina
good and workmanlike manner, and to be finished and ready
for delivery to the county commis.-ioiiers of this county, or
their agent, specially appointed for that jjurpose, on or before
the first day of August next. The contractor will be required
to give bond with good and sufficient security, to be approved
by the said commissioners, in the penal sum of two hundred
dollars, conveutioned for the compliance with this order,
which bond shall be made payable to the county commis-
sioners of this county and their successors in office, for the
use of said county, and shall be left and deposited with the
clerk of this court and by him carelully filed with the papers
of said clerk's office."
The contract was awarded to Berry Anderson for the sura
of fifty-four dollars, and a bond, with Amos Anderson,
Joseph Wells and Humphrey B. Jones, as sureties, was
accepted and filed at the March terra of the county court.
At the September term, 1828, the building was received
and the contract price paid.
An order made at the June term, 182S, declaring Pinck-
neyville the seat of justice, and requiring all process issued
by the clerks of the cou:ity and circuit courts to be made
returnable thither, was at the September term rescinded.
The first term of the county commissioners' court, held ip
the new court house in Pinckneyville, began on the second
day of March. 182il, with William Johnson, John Pyle, Jr.,
and William H. Threlkel, commissioners ; and the first term
of the circuit court held at the same place, commenced on
the tenth day of April, 1829, Theophilus W. Smith, presid-
ing as judge. In 1829, the court house was weather-boarded
with four foot boards, neatly shaved, and a large stray pen
was also erected on the same lot with the court house The
17rt
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
pen WHS lliiity-six feet square and six feet high. The work
was done by Fergus M. Milligan, contractor, and the price
of both jobs, S22G21.
REMONSTRANCE AGAINST BUILDING SECOND COURT HOUSE.
Be it known to the people of Illinois and the county of
Perry, that the county commissioners' court of said county,
have agreed to build a brick court house, forty-three feet
square and tweuty-four feet high with a square or hiped
roof, and a brick floor with two doors and twenty-four
windows, and two chimneys with two fire-places each. We
the undersigned, knowing the annual income of our
county to be insufficient to perform such mighty work,
without essential and everlasting injury, do hereby protest
against said proceedings, and pray said court to recall said
order until we are better able or approved of by a majority
of said county, given under o..r hands, this third day of
February, 1 836.
Names of signers: Frederick Williams, Lewis Wells,
Paris A. Hickman, JNIichael J. Taylor, Jacob House,
Thomas Wells, Obadiah West, Jonas Lype, Reuben Kelly,
Jonathan McCollum, Hezekiah Balch, John King, John A.
C'rotlbrd, John Lype, CViruelius Godwin, Samuel McElvain,
John Pyle, Sr., Joseph Williams, John R. Teague, Leonard
Lype, Van M. Teague, Jeremiah Walker, Van S. Teague,
Jacob Lipe, William Throop, Siprian Davis, Guilford H.
Haggard, Solomon Woolsey, Robert M. Galloway, Lewis
AVells, Sr., Thomas Wells, J. H. McElvain, Elija Laine,
Beunet Lain, Elisha L. Lane, Abner Pyle, Sr., Simpson
Williams, W. Williams, Jordan Harris, Johnzy Orten,
John Harris, Thomas Morris, Edgar M. Thompson, Abra-
ham Morgan, Isaac Lee, Laban G. Jones, Abraham Lee,
Edmund Lafferty, Edniond Callaway, Hiram Lafferty,
Samuel T. Etherton, David Dial, Richard WilliaTiis, Wil-
liam Dyal.
SECOND COURT HOUSE.
The second building erected for a Court House was a
brick structure of two stories, situated about the centre of
the jjresent public square.
It was forty-three feet square, with a door in the North,
South and West sides of the lower story, two or three chim.
neys, and open fire places above and below. The lower
floor was of brick set on edge. Five windows of twenty-four
lights each were placed in each of three sides of the upper
room, and two in the other side corresponding to the num-
ber of doors and windows below.
The building was erected by Amos Anderson and com-
pleted in the fall of 1837, nearly two years after the enter-
prise was undertaken. One thousand seven hundred and
sixty five dollars was the cost, and (owing doubtless to the
stringency of money matters) the contractor was paid large-
ly in notfs taken by the County commissioners, for sale of
lots in Pinckneyville. The present Bank building of Mur-
phy, Wall & Co at Pinckneyville, was subsequently built
of the brick of this Court House.
In 1838 the court house was finished by Thomas L. Ross,
carpenter and Andrew Hays plasterer, at an additional cost
of eight hundred and forty dollars, and eighty seven and one
half cents.
OFFICl.\L BLUNDERING.
In September, 1810, an order was made by the county
court authorizing the sheritt'to employ some mechanic to re-
pair the doors and windows of the court house, so as to
cause them to shut and bolt, so that they cannot be opened
from williont.
On another occasion an order was made for the letting of
a bridge contract " to the highest bidder."
In 1S41 the appointment of assessor was given to the per-
son ofiering to do the work in the shortest time. John Gil-
liam took the ofiice, agreeing to do the work in twenty-six
days, that is for the amount of twenty six days' wages.
THE THIRD COURT-HOUSE.
At the March Terra, 1849, of the County Commissioners'
Court, Joel Rushing, Reuben Dye, and Isaac A Bradley,
being the commissioners, William Edwards presented a pe-
tition signed by five hundred and twenty voters, praying
that a suitable court house be bui t. In compliance with the
request of the petitioners, the court, on the seventh day of
March, 1849, appointed Humphrey B. Jones, Chester A.
Keyes and Charles L. Starbuck commissioners to procure
plans and report the same at a special term, to be held the
following April. At the same time the clerk of the commis-
sioners' court was instructed to give notice for letting the
contract for building the walls. The notice was to be pub-
lished in the Sparta Re'jidcr, Chester Reveille, and Bellerille
Advocate. The inside frame-work, roof windows and doors
were to constitute a separate contract, of which notice was to
be given at the same time. On the ninth of April the court
met in special session, received the report of the commit-
tee, and, after making certain «mendments thereto,
adopted the same. The new building was to be erected upon
the public square, west of the old courthouse. The dimen-
sions were to be forty-six by thirty six feet. The founda-
tion was to be of limestone two and one-half feet thick below
the surface, and twenty inches in thickness above. It was to
extend two feet and eight inches above the surface, and that
portion to be bush-hammered, range stone-work, with water-
tables. The remaining portion of the walls were to be brick,
sixteen inches thick for the first ttory, and thirteen inches
for the second, and twenty-five in height. The brick
masonry was to be of the Tuscan order, as was also the cor-
nice. The partitions in the first story were to be brick, and
ten feet high. The vvall was to have two coats of light-
colored drab paint. The plastering to consist of two coats
and white finish. The windows were to be supplied with
twelve light sash, the glass to be twelve by sixteen inches,
and also to have Venitian shutters.
The terms of the contract required the completion of the
building on or before the first day of September, 1851.
Bonds of one thousand dollars each, bear. ng six per cent, in-
terest, were to be issued to the contractor, reserving thirty
per cent UQtil the building was received. The contract was
let to Daniel W.Norris, of St. Clair county, for seven thou-
sand five hundred dollars, on the lOth day of April, 1849:
The contractor filed his bond for twelve thousand dollars,
with Christian Raysing, Isaac Griffin and John Reynolds as
sureties, on June 5th, 1849. Ihe next day the ground was
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AXD PERRY COUXTIES, ILLIXOIS.
171
staked off by the court, and the buildiug ordered to stand with
the canliiial points of (he compass. Work commenced at once,
and on the fifth day of Decembfr, 1849, the first bond for
one thou^a^d (iollars was issued to the contractor, and the
clerk was further ordered to issue five hundred dolhirs in
six per cent, interest-bearing county orders of such denomi-
nation as the builder should desire. A new countv court,
consisting of a county judge, Hosea H. Strait, and two asso-
ciates, Edward A Whipple and Robert H. Williams, hav-
ing been elected under the new constitution, held a meeting
on the 9th day of July, l'S.50. At this meeting Hosea H.
Strait was appointed to go to Mt. Vernon and select a com-
petent workman to inspect the building in course of con-
struction. Edward H. Whipple was sent to Chester, and
Robert H. Williams to Washington county on a similar
erraud. The workmen were procured, and, after an examina-
tion, made the following report to the court, July 1(5, 1850 :
Pinckneyville, July IGth, 18-50.
We, the committee appointed by the honorable county
court of Perry county to examine the rock and brick work
of the court house now being erected in the town of Pinck-
neyville, would beg leave to respectfully report, that they
have diligently examined the workmanship of the same, also
the materials, and believe the materials to be of a good and
suitable quality, and the workmanship neatly and well exe-
cuted, and in all respects complying with the contract be-
tween Daniel W. Norris and the couuty of Perry, with the
exception of one rock in the second course of cut stone to
the right hand of the south front door, which we would
recommend the contractor to remove and replace with a
harder one.
JiDsoN Clement.
H. D. HiNM.^s.
Matthew Forre.st.
These building experts were allowed for their services the
following amounts : Jud.son Clement, twvlve dollars; H. D.
Hinman, nine dollars; and Matthew Forrest live dollars.
On the strength of this report, Mr Norris was allowed one
bond of one thousand dollars, and two of five hundred dol-
lars each ; and an additional allowance of ten dollars for
extra work in cutting a scuttle-hole in the roof. The build-
ing was completed and received by the county court on the
third day of December, 1850, and the balance paid in four
bonds of one thousand dollars each.
THE PRESENT COURT HOVSK.
The rapid increase in the population of the county, and
the increase of litigation, made more commodious quarters
necessary. Much uneasiness was also felt for the security
of the many valuable records which were under no protec-
tion from fire, and but slight from the incursions of evily-
disposed persons. Many valuable court papers mysteriously
disappeared, and cases coming on for trial were continued
on account of missing papers. To afford the requisite ac-
commodations, supply a safer receptacle for the records and
to prevent the tampering with valuable records, the county
commissioners, John Baird, chairman, John Schneider and
John W. Pyatt, at their meeting, October 9th, 1877, passed
the following order : " Ordered, That there be submitted
to the legal voters of this county, to be voted on at the ensu-
ing November election, a proposition for the erection of an
addition to the county court house, and to levy a tax there-
fore in the j'ears 187 ■< and 1879, not exceeding five thousand
dollars in each of said years. Such addition is to be of
brick, two stories high, with fire-proof protection to the pub-
lic records. The necessary funds to meet the expen.5es of
such building to be borrowed in one or more loans, to be
redeemed when said taxes shall be collected : The vote upon
said proposition shall be " For taxation for addition to court
house;" and, "Against taxation for addition to court
house.'' And, if authorized, the board shall let a contract
without delay, and shall have said work completed during
next summer. The proposition met with defeat at the polls,
there being seven hundred and ninety-four votes for the pro-
position, and nine hundred and sixty-one against it. In
April, 1878, the people seeing the folly of their actions at
the polls, sent numerous petitions to the county board, ask-
ing for what they had just denied by their votes. By the
ninth day of April, 1878, no less than one thousand and
eighty-five names were presented to the commissioners asking
that the proposed improvement be made. On the same da}-,
the county commissioners ordered that John Chapman, of
Du Quoin, be employed to prepare a plan and the specifica.
tions for the improvement. The plans and specifications
were presented to the county commissioners on the seven-
teenth of the following May and adopted. The county clerk
was ordered .May 3, 1S7S, to give notice in the Du Quoin
Tribune and Pinckneyville Independent, that bids would be
received up to noon on June 3d, 1878, when the contract
would be let to the lowest bidder. On the 5th day of June,
187S, the contract was let to William G. Wilson, of Pinck-
neyville for the sum of nine thousand seven huiidred
and forty two dollars. He gave bond in the sum of nine-
teen thousand four hundred and eighty-four dollars, with
J. L. Murphy, Charles Gueraalley, Henry Dricineyer,
Charles A. Hoflman, Jacob M. Kunz, Fred Behreuds,
Joseph Bischof, Fred Mueller, William Klotz, A. K.
Kalbfleisch, William H. Smith, Evan B. Rushing, R. N.
Davis, Philip Gruner, G. R. Hincke and Joel M. Sul"
Jivan as security. The building was to be completed by
the twenty-fifth day of October, 1878. The bond was
approved July 9, and an order matle to advance the
contractor two thousand dollars. The house of Lewis Vung
was rented for the use of the county officials, while the work
of remodelling was in jirogress. On the twelfth of October
of the same year, two thousand dollars was paid on the con-
tract with a further order to pay two thousand more when
the roof was completed. Work was at once commenced, the
walls of the old building razed to the top of the windows of
the first story, and the whole interior removed. A wing
was added to the east side of the old building and carried up
two stories high. The wing is forty-five feet fronting south
by a depth of thirty-six feet, making the building present a
front of eighty-one feet. The building is a handsome brick
with stone facings window-sills and caps. It is well ven-
tilated and lighted by large windows, which are furnished
172
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
with blinds ujjon the inside. Two halls run through the
building from north to south. On the first story of the old
building are four handsome and commodious offices. On
the same floor in the wing are the offices of the county and
the circuit clerk, both supplied with large fire-proof vaults,
with burglar-proof combination locks upon the doors. The
vaults f re conveniently fitttd with racks for the records and
pigeon holes in which to file the numerous papers. The
second floor of the main building contains the court room,
with hand.<ome bar and comfortable seats for the audience.
To the right of the judge's desk, a handsome and life-like oil
painting, nearly life-size, of the late Judge Sidney Breese,
looks down upon the auditorium. The portrait was painted
by E. C H. Willoughby, and purchased by the bar, since
Judge Breese's demise. The second story of the wings
contains two large rooms for the use of the grand jury, and
the petit jury, with witness rooms adjoining each. The
grounds are yearly becoming more attractive, containing
many handsome shade trees. On the 22d day of January,
1879. John Chapman and William G. Wilson were appointed
agents to ])urchase furniture and the necessary supplies for
the new court house. They were to receive two dollars and
fifty cents per day for their services. John Chapman, on
the 10th of April, 1879, made his report and presented a bill
for two hundred and ninety dollars, the total cost of furni-
ture for the building. At the same meeting John Schneider
was instructed to purchase a chandelier for thirty dollars.
John Baird, John W. Pyatt and John Schneider, county
commissioners, received the building from the contractors
on the thirtieth day of April, 1879 ; and ordered the balance
of six hundred and forty-two dollars, due on the contract,
paid The custody nf the new buildiug was placed in the
hands of the clerks of the courts. A handsome iron fence
now surrounds the entire square, the cost of which was one
thousand five hundred and thirteen dollars and fifty cents.
E. T. Barnum, of Detroit, was the contractor for the work,
and John W. Pyatt, Thomas Stevenson and Lysias Heape
were the commissioners at the time.
FIRST JAIL.
The first jail was built in 1833 and 1834, and stood upon
the site of the present jail until torn down and removed to
make room for the present one. It was of brick, with three
inner walls of square timber, two of which were built up in
the usual manner— logs notched together— and the middle
wall of square timbers, set in perpendicularly This jail
consisted of two rooms one above the other. The dimen-
sions were 14 by 16 feet inside. Two small grated windows
in each room afforded a .scant supply of light and ventilation.
Amos Anderson was the contractor for this jail, the cost
of which was $750.
THE PRESENT JAIL.
By a special act of the General Assembly the present
county jail was built.
On the twentieth day of September, 186(5, the county
court, then composed of William Elstun, county judge, and
Ephraim T. Rees and James L. Primm, associates, the fol-
lowing order was passed :
" Ordered, that a tax, at the rate of two mills on the
dollar, be levied on all the taxable property in the county of
Perry, to be expended for the purpose of erecting a common
jail in the town of Pinckneyville, under and by virtue of an
act of the Legislature of the State of Illiuois, approved
February 15th, 186.'), and published in Vol. II., Private
Laws of Illinois, 186.5, page 542."
Nothing further was done until the tenth day of October,
1870, when the court, Charles E. R. Winthrop, James L.
Primm and James Ervin, ordered that a special tax of three
mills be levied upon the taxable property of the county, under
and by virtue of " An act to amend an act to authorize the
county court to issue bonds, approved February 16, 1865,
and in force February 28, 1867. Private Laws of Illinois,
1867, Vol. I., page 890."
Plans were at once solicited, and those submitted to the
court by Samuel Hannaford, of Cincinnati, Ohio, were
adopted by the county authorities, April 21, 1871.
On the 26th of the same month notices were issued
soliciting bids for the erection of the building, and all
bids were to be presented by the 10th of the following May.
The old jail was sold to Thomas Turner for S15. The con-
tract was let to E. Haugh, of Indianapolis Ind., on the 10th
of May, 1871. The contract price was 814,1.50, and the
payments were to be made on the first day of each month.
Ninety per cent, of the value of the materials and labor
were payable at that time.
The contractor gave bond in the sum of Slo.OOO, on the
]8th of May, with B. F. Haugh, J. R. Haugh and Thomas
H. Butler as sureties, and work was commenced. The brick
work was sub-contracted to Xorris & Hinckley. To pro-
vide the means to pay for the work, James Ervin was ap-
pointed financial agent for the county to borrow 811,000.
Bonds were to be issued, payable in one and two years, and
to bear interest at the rate of 10 per cent, per annum.
James L Primm was also appointed superintendent of the
building on the same day, July 6th, 1871, at which time the
contractor was also paid 81000. On the 18th of the same
month the financial agent reported that he had ett'ected a
loan from the Belleville Savings Bank, and a bond for 85000,
payable in one year, and one for 86000, payable in two
years, were issued to that institution. On the 16th of Au-
gust of this year a tax levy of 40 cents on the 8100 was
levied for jail purposes On the fourth day of December,
1871, a furnace was purchased from Blanchard & Garrison,
at a cost of 1200. On the 15th of the same month a final
settlement was made with the contractor and the building
received. The only extra cost above the contract price was
the additional allowance of 8200 for extra plumbing, and
8391.50 for extra masonry. In connection with the jail is a
handsome two-story brick residence for the sheriiT. The
jail is of brick, and best described by the Board of State
Commissioners of Public Charities, in their report for 1878.
It is as follows :
" The jail is in the rear of the sheriff's residence, two
blocks west -of the court house ; brick walls, not lined ;
boiler-iron floor ; ceiling of lath and plaster ; eight iron
cells, with grated fronts, dotible row, back to back. These
172A
COURT HOUSE.
PUgUC 3UILDIN6S, PEf^my COUNTY, ILL.
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPn, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
173
cells are surrounded on four sides by an inner corridor for
the use of the prisoners, and jailor's corridor surrounds this
agiiia on four sides, next the outer walls. The two are
separated by a cross-barred grating, which also extends over
the inner corridor making a perfect cage ; the eflect is very
light and airy. Bar locks, with levers in jailor's corridor.
Eight large windows ; good natural ventilation ; heated by
furnace; privy seat in corridor; force-pump; wooden tank
in attic ; bath tub and fixed basins. Large cell for female
prisoners in upper story of sheriff's house; in good repair
clean and roomy, and would be strong if a better (juality of
iron had been used in its construction."
TtlE COUNTY ALMSHOUSE.
In 1865, a tract containing ninety acres of land was pur-
chase<l at a c )st of seventeen hundred dollars, for a poor
farm. The farm lies one mile due south of the county seat.
No attempt was made to utilize it for many years, the farm
being rented to various persons in the meantime. The sup.
port of the paupers, scattered all over the county as they
were, became burdensome, and presented many opportuni-
ties for exorbitant charges from all sides. John Baird>
Charles Gaemalley, and Elihu Onstott, the board ofCounty
commissioners at the time, entered an order, on the twelfth
day of October 1874, for a vote to be taken at the ensuing
November election, on the proposition to build an almshouse
by levying a tax, in the years 1875 and 1870, not to exceed
twenty five hundred dollars each year. The vote was taken
and the propos-ition receiving six hundred and fifty-five
votes for, and there being but five hundred and sixty-two
vote^ against it, a plan was prepareil by John Chapman of
Du Quoin, and adopt' d on the seventeenth day i.f March,
1875. At the same time bids were ordered to be received
up to noon of April 8th. At the last named date, the pro-
posals ten in number were opened, and the contract for the
erection of the building given to D. P. Delano and John M
Bayless for the sum of four thousand three hundred and
thirty seven dollars and fifty-four cents. The payments for
the work were one thousand dollars on the fifteenth of
May, 1875 ; i ne thousand dollars when the brick work
was completed, and the balance when the building was com-
pleted, and received by the county commissioners. On the
13th of April, 1875 the contractors filed a bond for five thou-
sand dollars, dated April 9th, 1875, with II. R. Pomeroy, B.
F. Pope, Sr., and P. N. Pope as sureties The bond was ap-
proved the same day. To provide for the payments, it was
ordered that the following sums be borrowed from the fol-
lowing named persons, at the several ditferent times, and
that the county clerk, W. S. D. Smith, issue nine per cent,
interest bearing county orders, receive and pay out the mon-
ey. The loans effected were as follows :
Murphy, WaU 4 Co., .Maj- 1, )S75 $i(Xi.O0
- •• July IS, 1875 600,00
'• ■' Oct. 15, 1875 1,000,00
G. R. Hincke t Bro., July 15, 1875 500/10
" " " Oct. 15, 1875 1337.»t
Total amount borrowed $3837.54
Interest-bearing county orders, payable annually, were
issued in compliance with the order. John Bairdaud Chas.
Gaemalley were appointed superintendents of construction
by the commissioners. The work was rapidly pushed for-
ward, and the first payment was male May 1st, 1875, one
thousand dollars ; the second, one thousand dollars, July
15th, and the final payment of twenty-three hundred and
thirtys even dollars and fifty four cents, together with eighty-
seven dollars and fifty cents for extra work was made Oct.
15th of the same year. The building was received by the
commissioners on the ninth day of December, 1875. The
building is a handsome two-story brick, with cellar under
the kitchen. The main building ii thirty by fifty feet. On
the first floor there are six large rooms, with ten foot ceiling.
Also a large hall thirty-nine by ten feet. On the second
floor are two halls, thirty-nine by four feet, and sixteen by
ten, and eight large bedrooms, with a ceiling nine feet, six
inches. There is also a wing, twenty by thirty-six feet, with
dining-room, kitchen and store-room, on the first floor ; and
a porch six fiet wide along the wing. On the second floor
there is a hall extending the full length of the building and
six feet wide, and three chambers.
The rooms are well lighted and ventilated by large win-
dows. The building is a credit to the county, and a blessing
to those, who have to seek shelter beneath its roof It is
doubtful whether there is a county in the whole state, that
takes more care of its indigeut poor than Perry. The aver-
age number of inmates has been thirteen, annua'ly. The
county commissioners appoint a superintendent, annually,
and the following named gentlemen have held the position :
John M. Bavless, a|)pointed, January 1st, 1876 ; Alexander
A. Kimzey, January 1st, 1877 ; and William E. Gladson,
January 1st, 1878, and has held the position to the present
time. The phvsicians in charge since its commencement,
have been Dr William L. McCandless for the year 1877 ;
Dr. R. S. Peyton, for 1878; and Dr. William L. McCand-
less since that time. There were twenty inmates, according
to the state report of 1880, twelve of whom were children
We append the closing remarks of the state visiting agent
for 1878. "This is one of the best kept Almshouse? in
southern Illinois ; the county sujiplies everything required
and pays the keeper three hundred and fifty dollars a year."
THE CIKCUIT COURT.
The first fine assessed in this court was one of fifty cents
taxed against Joel Crain and Afton Crawford for an affray
for which they had been indicted. They were each fined at
the April term, 1829, and John Pyle, jr., was fined twelve
and one-half cents, on an indictment for an assault.
At the April term, 1>(30, Joseph Brayshaw was admitted
as a naturalized citizen, the first citizen admitted in Perry
county.
At the succeeding October term six persons of color,
Soudon Parkes, Agga, Jeremiah, James, John and Simeon
presented proofs of having served out their time, as slaves,
and were granted certificates of Freedom.
At the Sept 'mber term 1832 Leonard Lipe and Lewis
Wells, and at the May term 1833 Benjamin Johnson were
certified as having been soldiers of the Revolutionary war
and entitled to pension accordingly.
The first sentence of imprisonment pronounced was at the
October term 1834 imposed upon Augustine Davis who upon
174
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
a charge of Larc ny was ordered coufined in the county
jail for thirty davs. Not until four years after, at the July
special terra of 1838, was confinement in the State Peniten-
tiary adjudged necessary the county then having been in
existence eleven years. At that term J. Bennet for stealing a
horse was ordered to be sent to Alton, and to be confined at
hard labor fourtten and one-half months, and in solitary
confinement for two weeks.
The first Divorce obseived upon record was granted at
the May term of 1839 upon the petition of Eliza Lakin
against Adam Lakin.
THE FIRST MURDER TRIiL.
The first person tried in this county upon the charge of
murdf r, was one William Corberly. The cause was brought
on change of venue from St. Clair county, where the indict-
ment had been found. The first order regarding this cause,
appears on the record of April 30th, 184'2, when James
Shields, the prisoner's attorney, appeared before judge
Walter B. Scates, and made a moion that the cause be
s'ricken from the docket for want of j"risdiction. The
motion was sustained and an order in accordance therewith
entered. His at'orney appears in court again with a peti-
tion for a writ of habeas corpus, and upon a hearing on
May 3d of the same year, the prisoner was ordered to be
delivered to the sheriff of Sr. Clair county. The cause
came up for trial in this court, on the fifteenth day of
October, 1842. W-illis Allen was the attorney for the
people, and John Dougherty appeared in defence of the
jirisoner. A jury composed of James Huggins, John Hug-
gins, Euclid Logan, Peter W. Robinson, John Ayers, John
M Campbell, John King, Daniel Gunn, Samuel S. W^ilson,
William Linton, William Hutchings and Samuel Brown,
was secured. The same day the prisoner entered a plea i>f
"not guilty," the trial completed and the verdict of the
jury rendered, finding the prisoner guilty and fixing his
jiunishment at two months and three weeks in the peniten-
tiary, with two weeks in solitary confinement.
At the October term, 1856, a meeting of the members of
the bar was held, Ben. Bond of Clinton county, chairman,
and Wm. Stokes, secretary, at which Wm. H. Underwood,
B. M. Cox, P. E. Hosraer, R. S Bond and A. J. Dickinson
were appointed a committee to present resolutions commem-
orative of the death of H. B. Jones, a member of the bar,
who had died.
Of the murder trials, which have been had in this county,
the death penalty was never adjudged by the jury, until
November 8th, 1873. At the November term of the circuit
court, John Feefee and George Williams, negroes, were put
upon trial for the murder of a farmer named Mattison.
They had been stealing his hogs, and were being followed
by Mattison, when they riddled his body with btillets, and
left him lying dead in the field. The cause came up for
trial before judge Amos Watts, on the first day of November,
and issue joined and pha of " not guilty," entered.
D. W. Fountain appeared, alone, for the people, while
the prisoners were defended by Gen. Jones, E. H. Lemen,
Lewis Hammack and M. C. Edwards. The following jury
was obtained after several days' effort : Samuel J. Brown,
William G. Brown, Julius Schlegel, Jesse Green, James M.
Whtatley, James Smith. Absalom Adkins, Jonathan M.
Rice, Daniel Benson, James Horner, Isaac Lipe and
Ephraim Pyle. On the morning of the 8th of November,
the jury rendered a verdict of guilty, and fixed the punish-
ment at death by hanging. The criminals were sentenced
to be hanged on the 28 h of November, 1873. The scafl'old
was built and every preparation made by sheriff, Leonard
T. Ross, to carry into effect the sentence, when governor
Beveridge commuted the sentence to imprisonment for life.
TRIAL AND EXECUTION OF VAUGHN.
The history of this crime is best told in the language of
the Globe-Democrat, of June 17th, 18?2 : "James Vaughn
was a tall, good-looking fellow. He worked in the coal
mines the bfst part of his life, and so was not tanned and
browned like the general run of country laborers. He wore
quite a swell mustache, parted his hair neatly, and when
dressed for the grave in a suit of broadcloth he looked like
anything but a murderer. In June, 1881, there was a
meeting of Democrats held in the town of Tamaroa, III.,
nine miles northeast of Pinckneyville. It was here that
Vaughn lived at this time, together with his father and
mother and their children. Ben Vaughn was the favorite
brother of James, and Ben liked fun as well as any man.
Ben, although a Republican, went to the Democratic meet-
ing, and when one of the speakers was soaring to the top
cloud, Ben spoiled the effect by shouting ' Hurrah for Gar-
field. This breach of the peace riled William Watts, the
city marshal of Tamaroa. He pulled his revolver and
pointing it at Ben he frightened the latter so that he took
to his heels, with Watts after him, still holding the revolver
and flourishing it as though he intended killing the fugitive.
The latter ran clear to his father's home and entered the
house just as Watts was catching up with him. James
Vaughn heard of the escapade of his brother and of the
chase, and the more he thought of it the madder he got.
' If Watts ever tries to arrest or fool with me as he did with
Ben,' said Vaughn, ' I'll kill him just as sure as there's a
God in Heaven.' On August 4th, just two months after the
occurrence noted, James Vaughn, filled up with whiskey,
took a walk about the public streets of Tamaroa. He
talked loudly, said he did not care much for anybody, and
less for Watts, and as he talked the latter appeared and
told him he was disturbing the peace, and that he would
arrest him if he did not shut up Vaughn turned his nose
up at the marshal and told him he could not arrest him
unless he was armed with a warrant. This statement
appears to have irritated Watts, for he seized hold of his
man and said he would have to come along. Vaughn
jerked away from Watts, and this made the latter very angry.
He raised his cane, and struck Vaughn over the head with
it. Vaughn seized the cane and raised his right hand,
which contained a pocket-knife with the big blade open.
Vaughn aimed for a vital spot, and his aim was true, the
knife severing the subclavian artery. AVatts fell to the
ground, saying, ' I'm a dead man,' but before giving up
life, and while in the very throes of death, he drew his
revolver and aimed at Vaughn, who, noticing the marshal's
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
175
move, beat a hasty retreat. The dying man aimed at the
fugitive, but the cartridge failed to explode. A stcoud
time he fired. This time the weapon responded, and a
bullet pierced Vaughn's left log, inflicting a slight flesl,
wound. The next moment Watts toppled over and wag
dead. Vaughn was seized by bystanders, and before them
he said : ' Oh, I'm a man of my word. I told you I'd kil'
that man if he ever tried to arrest me, and I've kept my
word.' "
An indictnmit for murder soon followed his arrest, and
on the first day of May, 1882, James Vaughn was arraigned
before judge George W. Wall, on a charge of murder. He
entered a plea of '' not guilty." Mcirtiraer C. Edwards, the
county attorney, a.ssisted by R. W. S. Wheatley, Esq.^
conducted the prosecution, and Messrs. R. M. Davis and
E. H. Lemen, the defense. The first two days were spent
in obtaining a jury, which was as follows: John W. Rush-
ing, P. S. Wilks, George Kraft, Charles Seifert, William
Stewart, W. H. Sterling, Christian Schwartz, Jacob Thomas,
Chesterfield Harold, Hugh Devinney, James Knox and
R. p. Burbank. The cause wa.s given to the jury on the
evening of May 3d, and at fifteen minutes past twelve the
next morning, they rendered their verdict of guilty and
affixed the death penalty. The usual motitms were made
in the case, but all were overruled, and on the 13th day of
May, judge Wall passed the sentence of death, selecting the
Itith day of June, 18.S2, as the date for the execution, the
first and only one in the county. The case was then taken
to the Supreme Court, who affirmed the decision of the jury
in the lower court.
Sheritf, Thomas Penwarden, had named 12.15 r. m., as
the hour for the execution, and at that time twenly-fivo
persons were admitted to the body of the jail. This included
the sherift's guard, the spiritual adviser of the condemned
and the reporters. The scafi'old was in one corner of the
jail. To reach it the tops of the cells had to be scaled, and
reaching this point was made easy by a temporary wooden
stairway. The little crowd gathered on the top of the cells
and awaited the coming of the condemned. At 12.20
Vaughn was taken out of his cell and led to the scaffold by
the sheriff. The minister walked by his side and stood by
him upon the trap. After prayer the death warrant was
read, and then the sheriff asked Vaughn if he had anything
to say. He answered. " I have got nothing at all to say,"
whereupon the clergyman said that Vaughn had asked hira
to speak for him. He said that Vaughn was very sorry
that he had killed Watts, but confident and hopeful that
Christ would pardon him for all the sins committed in this
life. He repented for the crime, and had faith that God
had a pardon waiting for him in Heaven. After this last
statement the sheriff put on the black cap and adjusted the
rope. Then the minister and the sheriff stepped off' the
trap, shaking hands at the same time with Vaughn and
bidding him good-by. Deputy sheriff Lemen raised the axe
and severed the rope that held the trap up. The door fell
with a crash and N^aughn was sent flying into the unknown
world. There was a twitch of the ropes and then all was
over. The fall was nearly six feet and had broken his neck.
Thirty five minutes after the drop life was pronounced
extinct by the attending physicians. Vaughn was a Ten-
nesseean by birth, hailing from McNair county, that state.
He was thirty three years of age at the time of his death.
STATISTICS.
The Krowtli of tlie c.mnty in
giung ihe ab!.essi
appended, viz; tli
Assessment of Perry County In 1N60.
uIIm at (iirtVrent periodti
IWll) iviid \W>.
> way be so elearly
We select tvvu, «1
by
Number.
Hnrses 4,250
Neat Cattle \\,3V>
Mnle.s and Asses ^1
Sheep 0,271
Hogs 10,1>07
rmge
I'l.H-U
hi U,
id Wag
Value.
tn",K)(»
C.273
UI,M1
38,iK0
;i:i5
67,075
i;is>b
4'J,K2U
4,«!IU
78,fiU
Total value of taxable personal property $576,141
Lands $1,014,840
Town Lots lti!),917
Total value of lands and town lots $1,184,763
on Sirei.
Total value of real and personal property $1,760,914
T\XK
Slate Tax, 47 re-
state S.-hool T;i
State Tax on I'
State Tax and 1
County Tax, 4(1
' inty Ta
riner years..
$^,270 29
3,521 83
39 53
128 02
7,041 65
107 55
Speei..l County Tux 0,7.">5 32
Total Tax levied $25,932 19
Acres in cultivation— Wheat, 10,290; Corn, 17,157; Other field products, 2,4t9.
Assessment of Real Estate, Personal Propei*ty, and Principal Articles of Perry County, Illinois, for the year 1883.
Steam
Improved
Unimproved
Total Improved Unimprvd
Total Lots.
Horses.
Cattle.
Mule and
Asses.
Sheep.
Hogs.
Engines
incTdng
Acres
Value.
Acres
Value.
Acres Value. Lts.
Value.
Lts. Val.
Lts.
Value.
No.
Value
N.vl
Val,
No.
Val.
No.
Val.
No.
Val.
2
Val.
Town 4, range 1..
9933
81008.10
8230
$17367
I81C3 $118217 147
$27045
300 $1645
447
$11690
310
- ■■ \- I :
';: - 104
$;)280
68
$68 275
$380 10
$1030
t. f,^ „
1
17748
169(m 7737
161ffi
2,5485 18.52541 26
1295
45 124
71
1419
472
1
" 6, "
1..
13624
15B4041 M05
11034! 2002a| 107438, 602
122.^58
2:12 7078
834
229436
;149
I
4(145 244
355- 418
,. 4_ ..
■/.
41.36
;12265
12337
283112 1114731 60r,47
1.59
42
1245
" 5, "
2„
9573
86:170
1032i
2'16!H1 IMwri; Iii7ii,'.1
242
•- 87
2686
10:t
10:1
685
10.15; 1
100
2..
S..
3..
10582
2472
7974
100311
17321
69490
9037
1.5022
12178
180l,i; 1" I'l ll'"'IT
274;i7 1, I'l I'T ,. . ..'
2244-J Ji'l... :rli..ij 221
289
107
.329
•• 4, "
, , 1
47919
342
*!M
50:1
"■"52J!59
1 : 1 ( ( 87
2491
207
207
377
400 7
1155
" 0, '•
3
10.-34
965ia
11238
2lo.)ii 2n;.; U7i.,u 1
218
7_J.. Jl'
-l.,l, 89
31.55
260
200
" 4, "
4
1040(:
97564
12:t42
2.398i 228(12 12l"i4G
•?4|
2041
94
loot
12f
3051
252
mzv: :j8:i
:-88Ul 74
22.50
291)
294 289
4..
4..
12200! 113952
87871 7;i043
10660
14178
21205 i292U 1:15157
294.32 22965 102475
288
910''
8350
3U8
226
3019
2325
85
64
3 00
2285
i;u7
317
607' 316
345 3
" 0, "
24|
2835
87
431
111
3266
324
341
5088
450
Totals....
n7784!»11131.54ll32687
$257942 247471 $1371(196
1044'
$203197
1098 W>2
:142l $224120
3244
$101555
4490
$43269
1052
83.3960
2t26
$28'29
$6460
il
$71"&
176
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
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357
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11165
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3262
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122
610
696
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1200
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465 .
1 10
32800
12820
2555
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3715
1071
2292
2470
548
2402
2119
180
5200
100
800O
5825
400
1315
10001
250[
350 3050
"25
1238
2670 45
2833 50
6761
6828'
1
40 4V,
13205
31181
32844
8978
518.17
96
130
146
66
209
" 6,
" 4.
" 5,
" 6,
44
?H
■2
60 .
1727
Jliii>a
4
' 4
'
3
6(1 .
905
1568
800
1900'
11 Ti
1
11-'
m
5«
301
1
5 .
125
95
2678
161 J8
2116
...1
105
19IJH
99
255
75
3S7
1
37
6
155 .
3116
10
496
1962
940
18 8UU
o! 275
177
26213
72813394
997
7267
71
3590
«
1810
1 10
61021
3265
3707
26732
^
31213
5056 3050
395
49263 1850
790 3565 427-lM
1686
—
■
AueMment of Real Estate, Personal Property, Principal Artitles of Perry County, lUluois, for the y.
Personal Property.
Sheep...
Hogs.
Steam Engines and Boilers
F re or Biirrflar-Proof Safes
Billiard, Pigeon-h"l>', Bagatelle t
Carriages and Wagons
Watches and Clocks
Sewing and Knitting Machines..
Piano Portes
Melodeons and Organs
Franchises
age
Value.
$11 24
9 63
32 28
1 04
1 27
124 70
44 45
30 65
15 75
1 90
7 20
.50 42
19 00
Total Assessed Value of Eaumer.ated Property...
Amount of line 11
rated Property.
Merchandise
Material and Manufactured Ar
Man'f Tools, It
Agricultural 'In..!-, In,|.l..in. m- .^Uh
Moneys of Hat.i 1 . - ■ .n.i I'.i •
Monevs of nth t ' l. . 1 ' ' -i -. .t.
Credits of otli.i. ili "1 r.ml.'iN ■Ir
Bonds and Storks
Properly of Corporations not befon
Properly of Saloons and Ealing Ho
• Fur
ehold and Otfic
Investment!* in R. E. and Improvements thereon ..
Grain of all kinds
All other personal property
Total Assessed Value of Unenumerated Property $190,4
Total Assessed Value of Personal Property 429,0
8101,5.56
43,269
33,960
26,213
3,394
7,267
3,580
Real Estate— Lands
Improved Lands 117,769 i 89
Unimproved Lands -• 128,982 1 2
Total Assessed Value of Lands $1,371,406
ber of » p
Acres. .„„
Real Estate— Town and City Lots.
Improved Town and City Lots 1,041 $187 12 $203,497 ]
Unimproved Town and City Lots 1,090 16 00 17,443
Total Assessed Value of Town and City Lots $220,940
Aver- Assessed
Railroad Property. I aee I yalue.
Class C. Personal Property J $ 90
Class r>. Lands No. Acres 20 $20 00, 400
Class D. Lots No. of Lots G 31 66, 190
Total Val.je of Railroad Property Assessed in County $680
Total Value of all Taxable Property Assessed in County I $2,022,051
Agricultural Statistics of Perry County for tbe yeai- 1884.
u -I, ..«.«
4, '
2
2
6, '
-' ,
6* '
3
4
5 '
4
6, '
Totals..
12650
179.50
13085
6130
20470
20745
9440
30020
24180
11990
21216
13690
8371 201765 2610U
36180
39610
33511
842o:
31115|
32325
13874
33110
46965
64i00
69456
27330
428144 171 726] 6017
'.'.'.'.'.'.
"(j's
106
"275
460
7950
14486
5618
1860
120110
14405
3775
7690
18705
16625
17221
13030
133514 654 73425
970]
.3300'.
30001.
2190 .
7520..
6250
7625
11900
6425
6 1530 16 130
so
44
431
5
4.55
In
68
28
330
69
604
39
3S3
3Z4
176
20
4875
220
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
177
Town 4, Range 1
2"
=., 6
I
:::;:: ::::::i
I 'i"2 -I
Sweet a„„K« S§>: Pas-
Potatoes S«r8ho. j^ij ,^^g^
li
|l
3SI
2414
l^'^O
2>»I
lai
lOull
2i»i
2U00
4U
1C1.1
4l>i>
13S4
17.-)
1*J0
3711
Tino
:m
uimi
ai4
4:117
418
1414
im
371)7
M3i
394C0
IIIOOO
llOfll
1£)15
IKKH) .
9193 .
ll-Jl(i .
lUilO .
G.iSO
8«HMI .
87n)|
113{K) .
7*10;.
ll'Jl8o'
nil
22iil
Caitle
Died
1881.
i a- 1-
17 17 949: SC8
,.| 13»l
9| 6, 475
15J 4' 225
isiixm I
52ti 2C5-i5ol 21 ZH
711, 17o0| I
59' 314JO! '
lull eG9iiu g! 136
8'i; 34lu> 2 1 40
50 22490! I
24| 10i4<l :
77 1 39U1IU 5; 125
1:17[ R43Sii! I
108 84:150 '
441 213SIII I
^1 I,
xTjii- 1 * J I Sheep ' Sheep ■= b
SoH §•= '<'"«5 : died Of §3
l^by dogs. Disease. ^5
Town 4. Range 1. ' 39 18u|.
•i-iH 13! 30, 8, llil
1401 171 M, 22 041
90 125 ! I ' 111^ 40' 40.
84il')
2.n->.-.
14^0.)
litsll
117lo
121 >0
l.i80
Pies ' f = S ; Bees and Bjl" ^f^^
Diednf £::!S2 Honey. Igc. «.•; ■'■?
Cholera, I S^ls 1-=° £= La'<'-
IdO 4J.>l. 4, b99 51 o20 5 60U
193 9ue 700 8 4368 60Ci 79 153 30, 80 20331 154 1590U| 30W; IbUOl 301931 192 7U>U 14 lluo 89 1175
;>| UUb,
County Subscription to Railroads. — Id pursuance of peti-
tions numerously signed, the county court on the 24th day
of Mav, 1869, ordered an election to be held at the several
voting places in the county on the 3i] day of July, 1869, on
the proposition to subscrilte stock to railroads, viz ; Belle-
ville & Southern Illinois, .§150,000; Chester & Tamaroa
Coal and Railroad Company, $100,000 ; Cairo & St. Louis
Railroad; 850 000.
The election was held and resulted in the casting of a
sufficient number of votes (twelve hundred and thirty being
required) to authorize the first proposition.
Upon the election of a new court and a renewal of peti-
tion, a vote was on the ISth of January, 1870, ordered to
be held on the 19lh of February, to ascertain if a maj<irity
of the voters (nine hundred and eighty-four being now
required as the minimum) would vote to authorize the sub-
scription of 8100,000 to the Chester & Tamaroa Coal and
Railroad Company.
The election was held and nine hundred and eighty-six
votes were cast in favor of the proposition.
By the terms of said votes the B. & S. I. road was to be
completed from Belleville to Du Quoin by January 1st,
1871. The terms were complied with (thefirst train pa.ssing
through December 4th, 1H70) and on the 5th day of Decem-
ber, 1870, the bonds of the county were issued to the
amount of 8100,000, and that amount of stock taken, it
haviug been ascertained that the statutory limit of county
subscription to railroads was 8_100,000.
These bonds bear date January 1st, 1871, with annual
interest at seven per cent., redeemable at any time after five
and within twenty years from their date.
23
The C- & T. R. R. was by the terms of the vote to be
entitled to S50 000 of bonds upon the completion of the
road from Tamaroa to Pinckneyville, and the remainder,
§50,000, upon the completion of the road to C'hester. This
being done the first instalment of 850,000 was issued Novem-
ber 10th, 1871, dated July 1st, 1871, with seven per cent,
interest, payable semi-annually and the remaining 850,000
were issued December 6th, 1S71, and dated January 1st,
1872, bearing same interest, and all payable after five and
within twenty years of their date.
Saline and Swamp Lands — By an act of the Legislature
of 1831, one hundred and fifty dollars wa-i appropriated
from the avails of th? saline land- for a roa 1 from E]uality
to Carmi ; and the county commissioner.-!, at their meeting of
September 3, 1833, appointed Samuel Pyatt agent to collect
and pay the same into the county treasury. The agent
performed his work, and on the si^cond day of the following
December he made his report and was paid six dollars for
his services.
The State Auditor reported on the 10th of June, 1854,
that the value of the swamp lands of the county was
8tl38.i9. The counti^ court appointed Charles E. R. Win-
ihrop Drainage Commissioner on September 6th, 1853. The
following day the county court appraised the lands. Perry
county also received 82,3'-:2 76 from the national govern-
ment as a portion of the sale of swamp lands. The lands
were sold December 4th, 1854, and on the seventh of the
following March the Drainage C.)mniis.>ioner reported that
he had in money and notes 84377.74 and the expenses were
8126.30, leaving a balance of 84 251.44, which was ordered
paid into the school fund and received by the School Com-
178
BIS TORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
niissioner. The lands were not all sold at that time, but
frequent sales have since been made.
An attempt was made to adopt a lownsbip organization
at the November election, 1878, but met with defeat. The
vote showed only three hundred and sixty-seven votes for,
and eighteen hundred and fnty-four votes against it
A list of the members of the General Assembly from
Perry county since its organizatior, or the district in which
the same is situated :
SENATORS.
Samuel Crawford, 1828-32; Conrad AVill, 1828-32;
Thomas Mather, )832-3C; John D. Wood, 183!i-42^
John Crain, 1842-46; Elias 8. Dennis, 1846-48 ; Hawkin
S. 0=burn, 1848-52; John E. Detrich, 1852-50; E. C.
Coffey, 1856-60; Jarafs M. Kodgers,* 1860-62; William A
J Sparks, 1862-64 ; David K. Green, 1864-68 ; John P
Van Dorston, 1808-72; Jediah F. Alexander, 1870-72;
William K. Murphy, 1872-76 ; Ambrose Hoencr, 1876-80'
Louis Ihoru, 1880-84.
P.EPRESENTATIVES.
1828- 30- Singleton H. Kitrmel, Thomas Mather, Hy
polite Menard.
1830-32— J<,hn Atkins, Thomas J. V. Owens.
1832-34— David Bnldridge, Richard G. Murphy.
1834-36— Richard G. ISIurphy, John Thompson.
1836-42— Richard G. Murphy.
1842-44— John D. Burklow.
1844-46 -John Steele.
1846-48— Hawkins S. 0=burn.
1848-50— Zenas H. Vernor.
1850-52- Richard G. Murphy.
1852-54— William M. Phillips.
18.=)4-56— P. E Hosmer.
18.56-58— Hawkins S. Osburn.
1858-60— John D. Wood.
1860-62— Orson Kellogg.
1862-64— Stephen W. Miles, Edward Menard.
1864-66— William K. Murphy, Austin James.
1866-68— William K. Murphy, John Campbell.
1868-70— John M. McCutcheon, Thomas H. Burgess.
1870-72— William R. Gass
1872-74 — John W. Pyatt, William Neville, Austin
James.
1874-76 — Joseph W. Rickert, Samuel McKee, Jonathan
Chesnutwood.
1876-78— Theophilns T. Fountain, John Boyd, Septimus
P. Mace.
1878-80— John T. McBride, John R. McFie, Philip C. C
Provart.
1880-82— Austin James, Isaac M. Kelly, William K..
Murphy.
MASTERS IN CHANCERY.
Andrew J. Dickinson received the first appointment to
this office in 1845 and served until 1847 ; Charles L. Star-
buck, 1847 to 1851; Lewis Hammack, 1851 to 1855; An-
• Jamea M. Rodgera died wl:
lected to fill the va.-ancy.
A. J. Spnrks
drew J. Dickinson, 1855 to 1857; AVilliam H. McKee,
1857 to 1860; William K. Murphy, 1860 to 1869; Evan
B. Rushing 1869 to 1873 ; Theophilus T. Fountain, 1873
to 1875, and Evan B. Rushing from 1875 to the present
time.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.
Flrd and Subsequent Boards of County Commissioners. —
John R. Hutchings, Elijah Wells, David H. Mead, 1827 ;
William H. Threlkel, William Johnson, John Pyle, Jr.,
1828-29; William Johnson, Joseph Wells, Abner Keith,
1830 ; Elijah Wells, Joseph Wells, Abner Keith, 1831 ;
Daniel Dry, Samuel Pyatt, Benjamin Hammack, 1832-3;
Daniel Dry, Samuel Pyatt, William Edwards, 1834-5 ;
William Edwards, Andrew Bourlaud, Samuel Pyatt, 1836;
John Reid, Nathan G Curlee, Jacob Sliort, 1837; George
W. Ho'chkiss, Enoch Eaton, Richard G. Davis, 1838;
Enoch Eaton, Jonathan G. Clark, Richard G. Davis, 1840;
Enoch Eaton, Jonathan G. Clark, Abner K. Pyle, 1^41 ;
Enoch Eaton, Abner K. Pyle, Isaac H. Bradley, 1842-3;
Henry F. Hampleraan, Enoch Eaton, Isaac Bradley, 1844-
5; Joel Rushing, Isaac A. Bradley, Henry F. Hampleman,
I.SIO ; Reuben Dye, Joel Rushing, Isaac H. Bradley, 1847-8.
In 1849, and after the adoption of the constitution, the
county judges performed the duties heretofore performed by
the county commissioners.
Probate Justices of the Peace. — Humphrey B. Jones, 1828
to 1847; Levi Green, 1847; Humphrey B. Jones, 1849.
County Judges. — Hosea H. Straight, Richard H. Wil-
liams, Edward A. Whipple, Associates, 1849. Edward A.
Whipple resigned, and Peter W. Wilks succeeded him in
1851. Laban G. Jones, Jonathan G. Clark, John Pyle,
Associates, 1853; John Baird, William Craig, Samuel Y.
McCluer, Associates, 1850; Henry S. Hampleman, William
Craig, Ephraira T. Rees, Associates, 1801 ; William Elston,
Ephraim T. Rees, James L. Primm, Associates, 1SG5 ;
Charlts E. R. Winthrop, James L. Primm, James Ervin,
1869; William Elstun, 1873 to January 31st, 1881, when
he resigned, and Sample G. Parks, the present incumbent,
was appointed by Governoc Cullom.
Under the constitution of 1870, a board of three county
commissioners were given control over county affairs, one
member being elected annually after the organization of the
first board, the term of office being three years. Under this
regime the following were elected
County Commissioners. — Elihu Oustott, Charles Guemal-
ley, John Baird,* 1873; John Baird,* Elihu Onstott,
Charles Guemalley, 1874; John W Pyatt, John Baird,*
Elihu Onstott, 1875 ; John Schneider, John W. Pyatt, John
Baird,* 1876 to 1879 ; Lysias Heape, John W. Pyatt,* John
Baird, 1879; Thomas Stevenson, Lysias Heapi * and John
W. Pyatt, 1880 to 1882.
Clerks of the County Court. — Humphrey B. Jones was the
first county clerk, being appointed by the county ( oramis-
sioners at their first meeting, June 4th, 1827. He served
until August 10th, 1839, when he was succeeded by John
D. Burklow, who resigned on the Slst of August, 1841.
Joshua M Rice was appointed by the county commissioners
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
179
to fill the vacancy, and served until the 6th of September,
1841. He was succeeded by Humphrey B. Jones, who had
been elected at the preceding August election. Mr. Jones
continued to fill the oftiL-e until Charles L. Starbuck was
elected on the "id of August, 1857. Nathan T. Kelly was
elected under the new coustituiiou, and took the office in
December, 1849. Since that time the office has been filled
by John W. I'yatt, 1853 to 18G1 ; David M. Hoge, ISGl ;
Leonard T. Kuss, 1S65; J Carroll Harris, 1869, and since
1873 by Walter S D. Smith, the present efficient and courte-
ous incumbent.
Clerh of Circuit Court. — Humphrey B. Jones, appointed
in 1827, and succeeded by Marmaduke S. Ferguson, he
having been by Justice Semple appointed clerk of said
court on the U'th day of Ajjril, 184:!.
Andrew J. Dickinson was appointed clerk by Justice
Shields. December 12, 1843; Charles L. Starbuck was ap-
pointed clerk by Judge Koermr, Sept. 28, 1847; Lewis
Haramack, elected Sept. 4, 1848 ; J.s. M. Mi)ntague, elected
1852 ; Evan li. Hushing, tlecti d 1856 ; Jas.M. Bmwn, elected
1864 ; Jas. M. Bruwn died August 10, 1867. an dCharles H.
Roe was by Judge Crawford appointed to fill the vacancy
until the ensuitig election, when in November, 1867, he wa.s
elected to the position of clerk, which position he still
occupies.
SUIiRIFFS OI-' THE COfXTY.
Wni. C. JIurphy, sherifTfrom 1827 up to 1837, iu which
year Matthew Jones succeeded him, and retained his posi-
tion until succeeded bj' John Steele who was elected August
3.1840; Abner K. Pyle, 1843; Laban G. Jones, 1844;
David M. Hoge, commissioned, August 28, 1846; Johu W.
Pyatt, elected in 1850; David M. Hoge, 1852; John D.
Reese, 1854; David M. Hoge, 1856; Jas. J. Hoge, 1858;
Albert A. Clymer, 1860; James F. Mason, 1862 ; Wm. G.
Leslie, 1864; J. Carroll Harriss, ISGii; Daniel W. Dry,
1868; Samuel A. Beard, 1870; Samuel A. Beard died May
4, 1872, and his term was partially completed by Geo. N.
TafTc-, coroner, who committed suicide before the term had
expired; Leonard T. Ross, 1872; Leonard T. Ross, 1874;
Kdward M. Harris, 1876 ; Ralph G. Williams, 1878 ; and
Thomas Penwarden, 1880.
COUNTY TREASURERS.
Daniel Dry was appointed by the county commissioners
at their first meeting, June 4, 1827, and continued in office
by them until 1829 The commissioners continued to elect
the treasurers until 1839; when they were elected by vote of
the people. The following named served by appointment:
Richard G. Murphy, 1829; John K. Hutchings, 1830 to
1832; Samuel Pyatt, 1832; David H. Mead, 1833 to 1836;
Joshua M. Rice,"l836 to 1839. In 1859 George O. Hotch-
kiss was elected; Lewis Staten, 1840; John D. Burklow,
1841 to 1843 ; Luther Beal, 1813 to 1845 ; David iM. Hoge,
1845; Benjamin Ilammack, 1846; James M. Montague,
1847 to 1850 ; Johu Moore, 1850 ; John McClure, 1852 to
1855 ; Samuel King, 1855 to 1861 ; Johnson C. Harris, 1861 ;
Leonard T. Ross, 1863; James C. Kimzey, 1865 to 1871 ;
John Patterson, 1873 to 1879 ; Josiah W. Haines, 1879 and
the preseiit incumbent.
COUNTY SURVEYORS.
Richard G. Davis was the first surveyor and received his
appointment from the county commissioners, at their Sep-
tember term, 1829, to hold his ofiice until the next meeting
of the General Assembly. He continued to hold this office
until 1835, when he was succeeded by Abner Pyle, Jr., who
had been elected by the people. Thomas H. Campbell was
elected in 1839; Abner Pyle, Jr., 1842; Nathaniel B. Dill-
horn, 1843; Nelson Holt. 1847; John II. Hutchings, 1848;
Samuel Katon, 1849; James M Montague, 1851 ; Isham E.
Willis, 1855; Robert Steele, 1857; David L Benson, 1861 ;
William H. Lovehdy, 1863, and held the office until May
2d 1870, when he resigned and was succeeded by William
Golightly, who served until 1871 ; John W. Tyler, 1871 ; J.
J Flack, 1875; William Collins, 1879, and died while in
office, and was suci ?eded, in 1881, by J. J. Flack, who now
holds the office.
Riaoi;i)i:i:.
The following have filled the (rffice of recorder, an office
now coupled with that of circuit clerk : Humphrey B. Jones
was elected in l'\35 ; John D. Burklow in 1839; .Sylvester
Adams in 1812; William J. Weir iu 1843, and Charles L.
Starbuck in 1847.
MINE ISSiPECTOR.
Prior to Sept. 20th, 1877, the county surveyors were ex-
officio inspector of mines, but the law changing and requiring
the board of county commissioners to appoint a practical
miner to that office, Tliouiiis Penwarden was appointed Sept.
20, 1877, and filled that office until Sept , issi), when he was
succeeded by Thomas Bailey, who now fills the office, and
looks after the safety of his fellow workmeu.
CORONFRS.
Amos Anderson was elected May 7, 1827, at the first
election held in the county, and was re-elected in 1828, serv-
ing until 1S31 ; David Baldridge, 1831 ; Matthew Jones,
1832; David Baldridge, 1834; Aaron Lipe, 1836; Thomas
Armstrong, 1838; John R. Hutchings, 1840, and continued
in office until 1848; John L. Baldridge, 1848; John R.
Hutchings, 1850 ; John Wheatley, 1852 ; Fleetwood B.
Garner, elected in 1854; John Wheatley, elected iu 1856,
and continued in office until lN(i2; Robert Craig. 1862 and
1864; Warren Wheatley, 1866 ; George U. Tafi't, 1868 aud
1870; William G, Anderson, 1872; William G. Gordon,
1874; Martin Smith, 1876; William G. Gordon, 1878,
died November 11, 1879, when Joseph Ogborn was ap-
pointed his successor, and re-elected to the oflSce in 1 880.
SCHOOL COMMISSIONERS.
The first to hold this office was David Baldridge, appointed
by the commissioners' court in 1831, and continued in office
until 1845, having been elected by the people in 1841 and
184 , ; he had been followed by Charles L. Starbuck in
1845; William H.Turner in 1846; Nelson Holt in 1847 ;
Marmaduke Ferguson in 1849 ; Samuel Eaton from 1850
to 18.54 ; Isham E. Willis, 18.54 to 1857 ; Zebedee P Curlee,
1857 to 1861 ; Charles E. R. Winthropin 1861, and Richard
M. Davis in 1863.
COUNTY SUPERINTENDENTS.
James W. Blair elected in 1865 for a term of four years;
180
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Benajah G. Roots in 1869 ; John B. Ward in 1873, who now
holds the fffice.
COUNTY DIRECTORS FOR CHESTER Si TAMAROA RAILROAD.
Under the provi>ions of an Act o"" the General Assembly,
in force A])ril 16 1869, T. M Sunjs and Jaiuis Ritchie were
comnaissioned as such i ffieers', June 7, 1871.
STATE AND COUNTY ATTORNEYS.
David J. Baker pro tem. for first terra of Court, August
28, 1827; James Sample, pro tem., August term, 1828;
Kichard J. Hamilton, pro tern., April terra. 1829; Henry
Eddy, October term, 1829; Richard J. Harailton, April
term, 1830 ; Alexander F. Grant, pro tem., October term,
1830; Walter B. Scales, pro ttm., April term, 1831 ; Alex-
ander F. Grant, pro tem., October term, 1831 ; Walter B.
Scates, pro tem., April term, 1832; Alexander F. Grant,
pro tem., October term, 1832 ; Walter B. Scates, pro tem ,
April term, 1833 ; Walter B. Scates, pro tem., October term
1833, April term, 1834, and October term, 1834; John
Dougherty made his first appearance May term, 1835 ;
David J. Baker, October term, 1837 ; Samuel Marshall,
July term, 183?; Wm. H. Stickney, May term, 1839;
Wm. H. Underwood, April term, 1843; Philip B. Fouke,
April term, 1847 ; P. P. Hamilton, October term, 1855;
George Abbott was appointed states attorney, pro tem., at
the May term, 1856 ; Monroe C Crawford first appeared at
the April temi, 1857 ; George W. Wall, April term, 1^65 ;
Robert R. Townes, April term, 1869 ; R M. Davis, appointed
by county court, July 16, lh72 ; D. W.Fountain, elected
November, 1872 ; Richard M. Davis, November, 1876 ; and
Mortimer C. Edwards, November, 1880.
CIRCUIT JUDGES.
Theophilus W. Smith, a justice of the supreme court, pre
sided over the August term, 1827, and the August term,
1828; and was followed by Thomas C. Browne, justice of
the supreme court who presided over the Perry county cir-
cuit court from April, 1829, to October, 1834 ; Alexander
F. Grant, judge, May terra, 1835 ; Jepthath Hardin, judge,
May term, 1836 ; Walter B. Scates, judge, up to including
October term, 1841 ; James Senipte,justice of supreme court,
April term, 1843; James Shields, justice of supreme court,
up to including September term, 1844; Gustavus P. Koerner,
up to including October term, 1848 ; Wm. H Underwood,
up to including May term, 1855 ; Sidney Breese, up to in-
cluding October term, 1866 ; Wm K. Parrish, up to includ-
ing April term, 1859 ; Alexander M. Jenkins, up to includ-
ing September term, 1863; John H. Mulkey, including
September term, 1865; Wm. H. Green, April terra 1867 ;
Monroe C. Crawford, November term, 1872; since which
date Araos Watts has been presiding over said court, alter-
nating with judges George W. Wall and William H. Snyder,
since June 16, 1873.
CHAPTER IX.
BENCH AXD BAR.
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
O follow in cocsecutive order
the history of the Bench
and Bar of Randolph, the
oldest settled part of Illinois,
is a pleasing and yet arduous
undertaking. Twenty-four
years had elapsed after ihe
first settlement of Kaskaskia,
before any form of civil
government was attempted.
Without such form, legal
enactments were unknown
outside of the church ; and even after its introduction, the
people were largely a law unto themselves, although dif-
ferences were adjusted by the Commis'^ary of Louisiana.
D'Artacjuette was the first appointment of the French gov-
ernment to this position, in the year 1708. In 1712 a
change was made, in that a wealthy merchant of Paria
named Crozat was appointed as D'Artaquelte's .successor,
and became supreme judge over the actions of the people of
the great valley. In 1717 he was succeeded by the ''Com-
pany of the West," whose aifairs were wildly administered
for two years by John Law, a Scotchman, whose ideas re-
specting banking and adjustment of titles, gained for him
an unsavory reputation. In 1719 the '' Royal Company of
the Indies," whatever such appellation might mean, obtained
the power and located M. Boisbriant and De Ursins at Fort
Chartres as their legal agents. Under this regime a series
of articles bearing the faintest semblance of legal enact-
ments were adopted in 1721. The first recognition of lex
scripta proved a rallying point for the early settlers, — a little
pebble of civilization dropped into the centre of the wild
ocean of savage life, the circling ripple enlarged and enlisted
the attention of all. In 1732 the charter of this company
was surrendered to the French government, and M. D'Arta-
quette was appointed governor of Illinois. La Buissoniere
was appointed his successor and held sway until 1751, when
he was succeeded by Chevalier McCarty. His successor, M.
Ange de Belle Rive, was the last of the French governors,
as in 1763 the country passed into the hands of the English.
On the arrival of Captain Stirling of the Royal Highland-
ers in 1765, Gov. Rive retired to St. Louis. Capt. Stirling
died soon after his arrival, and was buried at Fort Chan res.
He was succeeded by Major Frazier, and soon after by Col.
Reed, who became notorious for his military ojipressions,
based largely upon what he considered breaches of law. His
career was, however, short, as he was succeeded in 1768 by
Col. Wilkins, who, by the authority of General Gage, then
Commander of the British Army in America, established a
court of justice. He appointed seven judges, who held
court at Fort Chartres, commencing on the 6th of December,
1768. This was the first court of common law jurisdiction
ever held in the Mississippi valley. Prior, even under
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
181
the enactinents of 1721, the governor sat as judge, and held
uurestrictfd power iu passing sentence.
In 1787, Metsrs. Parsons, Barnuni and Syraraes were ap-
pointed United States Judges, having jurisdiction over the
Niirtliwest Territorv, with headquarters at Kaskaskia. Al-
though their appointment dated from 1787, they did not
arrive in Kaskaskia until 1790. Immediately after their
arrival a court of common pleas was instituted, and John
Edgar, of Kaskaskia, and Jean Bajjtiste Barbeau of Prairie
du Rod er, were appointed as Judges, each holding court in
the district of his residence. Many of the old records of
Randolph county attest their fairness in dealing with aflairs
brought to their attention.
John Edgar was a native of Ireland. As a subject of
Great Britain he served in her navy, which he left during
the time of the Ameiican revolution, and in 1784 took up
his residence in Kaskaskia. His sound judgment, liis quick-
ness of perception, and great decision of character, all con-
duced to make him a popular judge.
Jean B.^ptiste Barbeau was a Canadian by birth, and
of French parentage, and one of the founders of Prairie du
Rocher. He was a very influential man in his community,
and, prior to his appointment as judge, was often appealed
to by neighbors as an arbitrator of petty differences.
In 17fl5 a reorganization of the court of common pleas
took effect, and the following were appointed as judges:
John Edgar, William Morrison, Pierre Menard, Robert
McMahon, George Fisher, John Beard, Robert Reynolds,
Nathaniel Hull, Antoine Louvier, John Grovenier, James
Finney, and Samuel Cochran.
It appears, however, tliat most of the work devolving upon
these twelve men was done by John Edgar.
In 1809 this court was superseded by the county court^
composed of justices of the peace, three of whom were
necessary to constitute a quorum. Their names were :
Philip Fouke, Henry Levens, William Arundel, Samuel
Onielveny, John McFerren, Paul Harrelston, David Ander-
son, Archibald Thompson, John Phelps, Alexander Wilson
and Robert Gaston.
In 1814 this court wa-s again changed, and the court of
common pleas reinstated with members as follows :
John McFerren, William Morrison, James Finney, David
Andei^on, Philip Fouke, George Fisher, Archibald Thomp-
son, Antoine Chenttt, ^Miles Ilotchkiss, and Pierre La
Corapte.
Upon the organization of Illinois Territory in 1809, a
higher count, called the General Court, was established. As
judges of this court, there appears from the records, the
names Jesse B. Thomas, Obadiah James, Alexander Stuart,
Stanley Griswold, Wra. Sprigg, John Reynolds, Daniel P.
Cook and John Warnock.
In the year 1813 the territory was re-districted into three
judicial districts, as set forth iu the following act:
" Be it known, that under an Act of Congress, entitled
' An Act regulating and defining the duties of the United
States Judges for the Territory of Illinois,' it is allotted to
Jesse B. Thomas to preside in the first circuit ; to William
Sprigg to preside in the second, and to Thomas Fowler to
preside in the third circuit."
In 18.'55 the judiciary of Illinois was remodeled and re-
organized, at which time the circuit court was establibhed.
The following persons have acted in the capacity of Judges:
183\ Sidney Breese ; 1843, James Shields; 1845, Gus-
tavus Koerner ; 1849, W. H. Underwood ; 18o.5, Sidney
Breese; 1858, H. K. S. Omelveny; 1800, Silas L. Bryan;
1872, Amos Watts.
Upon the reorganization of the courts of Illinois taking
eifect July 1, 1879, the following became the Circuit Judges
of the circuit: Amos Watts, George W. Wail, AV^illiam H.
Snyder.
Of all the above judges only three were residents of Ran-
dolph and Monroe counties. Sidney Breese and James
Shields were both at one time residents of Kaskaskia, Raii-
doljih county, and H. K. S. Omelveny, of Waterloo, Mon-
roe county.
Sidney Breese, born in Oneida county, New York, in
1800, after graduation from Union College in 1818 came to
Illinois, and located first in Kaskaskia, where he studied
law with Elias Kent Kane He was soon after admitted to
practice. His first efibrts before a jury were so very un-
satisfactory to himself that he determined to quit the pro-
fession forever. Friends interceded, and encouraged him to
try again. In 1822 he was appointed attorney of the second
cieuit, which position he held for five years.*
James Shields, a native of Ireland, began the practice of
law in Kaskaskia in 18.32. Prior to engaging in this pro-
fession he taught school. It was during his experience in
the school-room that he prosecuted the study of law. As a
debater in a literary society, organized in Kaskaskia in 1833,
he was said to have excelled all his fellows. In 1830-7 he
represented Randolph county in the State Legislature.
During the progress of the Mexican War.he was appointed
Brigadier-General. At the battle of Cerro Gordo he was
severely wounded. Iu 1849 he was elected United States
Senator from Illinois. He subsequently represinted Minne-
sota and Missouri in the same body, thus representing three
different States in the Senate ; a distinction never befi)re
enjoyed by political aspirants. His challenge to Abraham
Lincoln to fight a duel has become historical. Lincoln,
having choice of weapons, selected broadswords, Shields
being a small, short armed man, wliile Lincoln was a tall,
sinewy, long-armed man, as stout as Hercules. Shields
evidently was "in for it." Friends interfered, and the duel
was averted.
Shields was a warmhearted, impulsive Irishman ; a brave
and gallant soldier; an excellent judge of law; an advocate
of marked ability. He died at Ottumwa, Iowa, in June,
1879.
H. K. S. Omelveny, a lawyer of marked ability, a judge
of fine attainments, was a native of Monroe county. He
was a self-made man, a close observer, a critical student, a
man of derided judicial turn of mind. He served in the
Mexican War, and in 18i,8 was elected Judge of the Circuit
* For a more full i<ketch of Judge Ureeee s6o ai'liclc od " Beach and Bar,
Perry county."
182
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Court. In this capacity he proved his worth ; his tlecisions
were clear, forcible, concise, and exhibited a thoroiigli and
sound knowledge of the law. In IStSG Judge Oiiielveny
moved to Los Angeles, California, whither his reputation as
an able jurist has followed hiiu.
FORMER MEMBERS OP THE BAR, RANDOLPH COUNTY.
The name of the first attorney to practice in the courts of
Kaskaskia, so far as any record now extant shows, is that of
La Buinieux, who presented a petition to the court against
Richard Winston, April 29, 1872. Of his character or
abilities nothing is known save that he was a man of keen,
shrewd ways, and exercised considerable power among his
fellows. His name subsequently occurs in many cases
brought before the court from June 5, 1787, to February
15, 1788, during which time the court seems to have been
pretty much in the hands of one family, as three of the five
justices are named Beauvais. Of these Antoine Beauvais
was the presiding justice. The first English-speaking at-
torney was John Rice Jones.
John Rice Jones, who was born in Wales in 17-)!l, re-
ceived a classical educalion, studied law in England, and
became a resilient of Kaskaskia in 1790. Being an accom-
plished scholar, a fluent speaker and skilled in the law, he
acquired a great reputation among early settlers as an advo-
cate. His practice extended from Louisvi'le and Vinccnnes
on the south and east to the limits of the white settlements on
the north and west. He had acquired some reputation as a
lawyer in Philadelphia, which city he left for the West in
1787, locating first at Vincennes, Ind. As a speaker his
capacity under excitement was extraordinary. His excel-
lent knowledge of the French language was of great advan-
tage in enabling him to tran.-iact business for tlie French
population. He never permitted himself to be idle, nor en-
gaged in light or trivolous amusements. He nniaintd in
Kaskaskia, in the enjoyment of an extensive practice, until
1802, when he returned to Vincennes. In the same year lie
was appointed a United States Judge of Indiana Territory.
He afterwards moved to St. Louis, and finally to Washing-
ton county, Missouri. He was a candidate in opposition to
Thomas H. Benton for the United States Senate before the
first General Assembly of Jlissouri, but was defeated. He
was elected by the same Legislature one of the Judges of the
Supreme Court of Missouri, which office he held until his
death in 1824.
Rice Jones, the oldest son of John Rice Jones, obtained
a legal education in Connecticut and located in Kaskaskia
in 180G. His talents however were of that order which
lead men to seek the excitement of political life in prefer-
ence to the comparative quiet of a straightforward profes-
sional career. This ambition led to his death. He had a
difficulty with Governor Bond growing out of political dif-
ferences. The preliminaries for a duel were arranged. The
parties met upon the appointed ground, and just before the
word was given to fire, Jones' pistol went off accidentally
and Bond refused to fire. The matter between himself and
Bond was amicably adjusted, but a controversy between
Dunlap, Bond's second, and Jones grew out of it which be-
came most bitter and unrelenting. One afternoon, as Jones
was standing on the side of a street engaged in conversation
with a lady, Dunlap approached and shot him dead. Thus
tragically was the early bar of Illinois deprived of one of
its most promising members, and politics of a bright parti-
cular star.
David Jewitt Baker, a native of Conaecticat, came to
Kaskaskia to ])ractice law in 1S18. He was a graduate of
Hamilton College, New York. As a lawyer he became dis-
tinguished and eminent. In 1829 he was appointed United
States Senator from Illinois by Governor EJwards. While
in Congress he successfully carried through the measure for
disposing of public lands in tracts of forty acre.s, a change
highly beneficial to settlers. In 183 j he was appointed
United States Attorney for Illinois by President Jackson
and was reappointed in 1837 by President Van Buren.^
Politicall}' he was a pronounced advocate for the prohibition
of human slavery. When it was attempted to introduce the
iniquitous traffic into this State, he turned his whole power
against it. For his bold utterances he was attacked in the
streets of Kaskaskia by Governor Reynolds, of Missouri.
The marks of the bludgeon used by Governor Reynolds on
Judge Baker's head was carried by him to his dying day. In
1844 he moved to Alton where he continued his professional
career until 1854, when he retired to enjoy a well earned
quiet during the evening of life. He died August 6, 1809.
Chief Justice Breese said of him in closing an address re-
counting his worth. "In a few words he was a ripe scholar,
a genial gentleman, a faithful friend, a true patriot and a
Christian, and well worthy of the honors this day due to his
memory."
Elias Kent Kani; commenced the practice of law in
Kaskaskia in 1814. lie was a man of brilliant talents, and
rose to a high position among the members of the bar. He
served in the Slate Legislature with distinguished ability ;
by that body he was elected to the United States Senate.
He was a member of the Fir.-^t Constitutional Convention of
Illinois which convened in Kaskaskia in July, 1818. He
died in 18:!o whilst a member of the United States Senate.
Natii.vniicl Pope first appeared in Kaskaskia in 1804,
but soon left, for St. Genevieve, Missouri, where he remained
until 1808, when he returned and took up his permanent
residence in Kaskaskia. Upon the organization of Illinois
as a territory in 18(i9, he was app liuted .Secretary — a posi-
tion he held until 181(5. In 1817 he was elected a territorial
delegate to Congress, and became a very iutluential member
of that body. It was by his ttlbrts that the northern boun-
dary of the State was changed from a line running due west
from the southern part of Lake Michigan, and fixed upon
latitude foity-two and a-half degrees north. Upon the ad-
mission of Illinois into the Federal Union, Pope was ap-
pointed judge of the United States District Court, which
office he held for more than thirty years. Nature fitted him
for the bench, and he occujiied the position with such ability
and dignity as elevated him to a high rank among the jurists
of the country. He was the father of General John Pope,
who figured in our late civil war, and is memorable for having
dated his military orders " From headquarters, jn the saddle."
HISTORY OF liANDOLPH, MOMROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
183
James Haggan came from Kentucky to Illinois, locating
in Kaskaskia for the practice of law in 1804. He was a
man of marked ability. He remained l)ut a short time, re-
turning to Kentucky, where he became a Judge of more
than ordinary reputation. Simultaneously with hira came
Benjamin H. Doyle and John Rector to engage in the same
profession.
John Rkctok's stay in Kaskaskia was but temporary.
He was o:.j of a family of nine brothers, some of whom
attained en/inence as surveyors of public lands.
jAJtiis '^uiN.v located in Kaskaskia in 1^.3(5. He was a
studious pains-taking lawyer, though not a man of broad
culture iior profound knowledge. At one time he was clerk
oftlie ircuit court of this county. Immediately after the
M;;xi"an war iu which he took part he located in the terri-
tory of New Jlexico, where he was subsequently appointed
Judge.
Hrcui Murray lived in Kaskaskia some time before the
breaking out of the ]Nfexiean war, and practiced law. He
entered the army i'. 1846 and subsequently went to Cali-
fornia wnere he became Judge of ihe Circuit Court.
Francis B. Anderson, for years a school teacher, during
which time he prosecuted the study of law and practiced a few
years iu the courts of Randolph county. He was very pre-
cise in his use of language — prided himself greatly on pro-
nunciation. He was a brilliant speaker, being a fine rhetori-
cian. Some years since he moved to Kansas where he is yet
engaged in practice. Gov. Bissell declared of him that lie
had passed the best examination of any one he had ever ex-
amined for admission to the bar.
Jami:s L. D. Morri.sox was born at Kaskaskia on the
twelth of April, 181(). When si.xteen years of age he was
appointed midshipman in the United States navy. While
confined in the naval hospital at I'eusacola, Florida, he
commenced reading law. In 183G hj returned to Kaskas-
kia where he was soon after admitted to the bar. He was a
Lieutenant-Colonel in the ^Mexican war, and f lUght with
General Taylor in all his battles, from Palo Alto to Buena
Vista. He is a man of elegant manners, and of a gallant
and chivalrous nature. He has altainid considerable dis-
tinction as a real-est?le lawyer.
Thomas Bond eldest son of Governor 15ond, practiced
law for several years iu Randolph county and when in the
vigor and strength of manhood's youth and promise died in
1^49.
James H. Watt was a native of Tennessee and came to
Rand( iph county with his parents when he was quite young.
He was brought up on a farm and had only the advantage
of a common school education. During the gold fever he
wont to California in 18.51 or 2 where he was very success-
ful. After four years there he returned to his home. About
the year 1'H.")G he began the study of law in the office of C.
N. Htarbird and was admitted to the bariu 18.')7. The year
following he was elected to the state Legislature where he
was regarded as one of the most a.^siduous workers. At the
close of his term of office he applied himself exclusively to
his law studies where he was known as a tireless worker and
an indefatigable student. Though not brilliant he was al-
ways regarded a good judge of law and of remarkable in-
tegrity he rose rapidly in his profession and stood at the
head until his death which occurred in a railroad disaster
at French Village, St. Clair county, in April 1870. At the
time of his death he was a candidate for the office of circuit
judge of the circuit in which he lived with every prospect
of success. Mr. Watt was not a good speaker and yet he was
an interesting talker, for he comprehended well every subject
he undertook to discuss and always spoke to the point. He
never faltered in that which he believed to be right, and never
went astray in hunting after policies or seeking for popularity
at the expense of justice.
Of all the attorneys of Rand'l'li county perhaps none was
more conspicuous than Thomas G. Allen, a native of
Philadelphia. He came to this county in 18-57 and devoted
himself a.ssiduoUfly to his profession. A man of extraordinary
industry he was in a few years possessed of rare attainments
in legal learning, but from excessjve study he was of a
morose disposition which increased his difficulties in his
march up the hi'l of fame. In the summer of 1801 he
entered the servic of the United States as Colonel of the
80th 111. Vol. :■ ailing health compelled his resignation the
following ye:ir. His fame as a lawyer began with his con-
necticu with the celebrated Dempsey murder case. From
that time he rose rapidly and stood high among lawyers of
his time. He was a man of an " infinity of words," hence
was ever ready with something apjjlicable to the work in
hand. He was an orator of excellent tact, and ever ready
for debate. His greatest strength lay iu his pains-taking
research, an<l his exact knowledge of every phaseofhisca.se.
Mr. Allen left Chester for St. Louis in IStiO, where he still
resides.
C. N. Starhird came to Randoli)h county about 1846.
He was a brilliant lawyer and had the advantages of a
classical education, being a graduate of one of the best
colleges of New England. His was a mo.st propitious begin-
ning and the future seemed to be promising; honor and fame
seemed in easy reach. He gained popularity in a. short time,
being a fine orator and an attractive speaker, but his bright
prospects were blighted from inordinate use of strong drink.
He died in 1857.
James M. Rai.i.s was a native of Randolph county, and
was often spoken of as being " the luckiest man that ever
lived.'' He had the advantage of a liberal education. While
he was quite young he was appointed clerk of the circuit
court to fill a vacancy. To this oiftice h$-was twice after-
wards elected. In 1861 he was elected jwdge of the county
court As a practitioner his success was remarkable. It
seemed to an observer that success, indeed, courted his
friendship, and that, too, but to betray. Possessed of a tena-
cious memory, in his manners aft'able, he was the friend of
all. Not a close student ; indeed it was said of him " that
he didn't read law, he simply .sat around with the boys and
inhaled it." In 1870 he was cloct^d a member of the legis-
lature. Here his convivial habits obtained the mastery
over him, bringing on a lingering illness, of which he died
in 1879.
P. P. Hamilton, the son of a Presbyterian clergyman,
184
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
came to Randolph county in 1849, to engage in the practice
of law. lu 1854 he moved to Alton, and soun after engaged
as a preacher of the M. E. faith.
Capt Johnson, who came from Nashville, 111 , in 1849,
■was a man of brilliance — a fascinating speaker. His legal
career here was short, as he died in 18.51.
John N. Hoi.loway, a native of Indiana, came to Ran-
dolph county in 1872. Th-^ family is of English origin. He
was a graduate of Asl)ury University, Indiana, from which
institution he graduated in 1862. For some years he taught
school. In 1868 he published a History of Kansas, of which
State he had been for two years a resident. In 1872 he came
to Chester, as principal of the public schools. In 1874 he
was admitted to the bar, and soon formed a copartnership
with J. Perry Johnsjn. He left the county under a cloud
caused by his shortcomings.
J.Perry Johnson was admitted to practice in ]8-j9;
located in Chester in 1861. In 1864 he was elected State's
attorney for the second judicial district. He soon took rank
among the able lawyers of southern Illinois. He now resides
in Perryville, Missouri, where he has a large practice. As
an attorney, he is clear, forcible and accurate ; and during
his residence in this county had au extensive practice, and-
by his genial and affable manners won hosts of friends.
In the good old times, when attorneys rode the circuit,
their practice e.\;tending from Shelbyville to Cairo, and from
Vincennes to the Mississippi river, many interesting expe-
riences were encountered. Kaskaskia, the centre of western
civilization, offered many of these episodes. To practice
here came such men as Judge Breese, Gen. Semple, Joseph
Gillespie, Usher F. Linder, Governor Reynolds, Lyman
Trumbull, Adam Snyder and a host of others.
As related by Gillespie, he and Linder put up, during the
term in 183(), with one Deevers at Kaskaskia. It was Lin-
der's first appearance at Kaskaskia. "He took a stroll
about town, and soon returned with his budget of news.
Amongst other items, he had discovered that our landlord
had sued a man named Campbell in assault and battery,
laying his damages at 81.00U, and expected a heavy ver-
dict on account of having lost a portion of his ear in the
skirmish. Campbell had offered Linder a small fee at a
venture, which the other declined, not knowing, as he said,
but that the landlord would employ him, and if he did, he
would make it pay both our board bills. I liked the scheme,
but told Linder that I thought Deevers had set his heart on
getting Trumbull to assist Baker, his resident lawyer. But
I agreed to try and get him in for Deevers. Soon after, the
landlord inquired who my companion was. I pretended to
be much surprised, and said, ' Is it possible you don't know
Gen. Linder, the attorney general, the greatest lawyer in the
State in a certain class of cases? In slander ca.ses or in
assault and battery, particularly the latter class, he has no
equal ; and if you have any friend who has an assault and
battery case, tell him by all means to hasten and employ
Linder.' Deever did not ' bite,' however, and I told the
general. 'Well,' said he, 'if he don't, I'll close with
Campbell, and give Boniface h — 1!' Sunday night Trum-
bull drove up, and the landlord sprang to the side of his
buggy and engaged him before he could get out. I reported
to Linder, and he posted off and made a bargain with
Campbell.
The case was set for Wednesday, and the general bestowed
his undivided attention upon his only case. He told me that
upon looking into the case, he found that if the plaintiff's
attorneys were not looking out sharp, he would get the
advantage of them in the pleadings, and then it was the
'finest case he ever 1 loked into.'
His opponents, having their hands full of business, fell
into the error he had anticipated, and when the pleadings
were made up, Linder said of the plaintiff, as Cromwell did
of the Scotch army, ' The Lord hath delivered thee into my
hands.' Linder said he was going to make one of the finest
efforts of his life, and I believed it, in so fiir that I told my
acquaintances, and among them Judge Pope, that there
would be music in court on Wednesday. I said to hira that
I thought Linder would outdo himself if he could have some
ladies in the audience. The judge said he would have the
court room filled with them.
The day arrived ; the evidence was heard, and the ladies
graced the room. Linder was in perfect trim, and when he
went to the jury, the scene baffled description. My stock of
language is totally inadequate to the task of giving any defi-
nite idea of the circumstances. I feel like Burns, when he
says :
•But hore my muse hor wines maun cower,
Sic fiiglits are far beyond tier power.'
Notwithstanding the fact that the merits of the case were
all with the plaintiff the jury, without leaving their box,
returned a verdict for the defendant. I was so dazed by the
adroitness, the eloquence and the masterly ability of Linder
that I was never able to remember much that he said. I
think he gained the case by ridicule, by the most brilliant
displays of rhetoric and by dramatic effect. It seemed to
me that he had acquired absolute dominion over the jury,
and that if he had called upon them to render a verdict of
guilty of murder against poor Deevers, they would havedoue
s >. The jury, the audience, everybody, was convulsed with
laughter, from the beginning to the end of Linder's argu-
ment, but poor Deevers, and he looked very much like a
man going to the gallows. Linder gave him the most terri-
ble castigation man ever received. Not by saying severe or
harsh things about him, but by ridiculing hira beyond mea-
sure. He literally laughed the case ont of court. The court
adjourned upon the rendition of the verdict, and while we
were going out, Deevers said to me :
'Oh God! why didn't I take your advice, and employ
that man ? I would not have lost my case if I had.'
' Deevers,' said I, ' when I take the pains to give you
good, disinterested advice hereafter, you will be apt to fol-
low it.'
' Yes, indead, I will,' said he.
The first thing Deevers would say to me when I met with
him after that, would be ' Well Gillespie, what a fool I was
that I didn't take your advice that time.' "
Another incident which occurred in Kaskaskia at an early
day is worthy of preservation. Benjamin Mills, a resident
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
185
of Greenville. Bond Co. travelled the circuit. He was a
man of great native wit and sarcasm, which he visited with
telling force U()on a fellow aUoriiey, (Jeneral Adams Adams
had for a client a man indicted for murder ; to secure his fee
he took a mortgage upon everything the fellow hud, even
down to his househohl and kitchen furniture. His client
was convicted and sentence 1 to be hung some thirty days
thereafter, and between the sentence and execution, Adams
foreclosed his mortgage and sold the property, not leaving
the wife and children ot the crimnal a bed to sleep on, or a
pot in which to C(K)k their dinner. His client was hung and
his body was handed over to the surgeons for scientific, ex-
periment. The doctors invited the lawyers to attend, and
among t the rest cirae General Adams anti Benjamin Mdls.
They had their galvanic battery, and placed one of the poles
to his spinal column while his body was still warm and let on
the electric fluid. Immediately the corjjs began a series of
distortions, most horrid to look upon when Adams laying
his hand on Mills' shoulder, said in a sorry, slow and
solemn voice :
'■ This is a very sorrowful sight."
'• Yes," said Ben, " it must be very sorrowerful to a law-
yer to see his client skinned the second time."
General Adams sneaked off and left the doctors to finish
their experiment.
Another non resident attorney prominent at the Kaskas-
kia bar was Alexander P. Field. As a criminal lawyer
he had not at the time a peer in the Stale He was a man
of fiue personal appearance — -about six feet four inches high,
and possessed of very graceful gestures ; his voice was magi-
cal; his power over juries was, as many old settlers attest,
almost unlimited. Not only was he a powerful man before
the courts, but as a political speaker he could madden or
convulse his audience with laughter at pleasure. He was a
brother-in-law of Nathaniel Pope, having married his sister.
He went from Illinois to New Orleans, where he placed him-
self at the very head of the Louisiana bar.
PRjaENT MEMBERS OF THE BAR.
The honor of being the oldest resident member of the bar
of Randolph County belongs to Major J. C. Hollbrook, a
portrait and sketch of whom may be found elsewhere in this
work. He studied law in Hamilton, Ohio, and in the year
184-5 came to Randolph county to engage in the practice of
his profession. He acquired a fine reputation as a lawyer
and gained a large and lucrative practice. A few years
since, owing to ill health, he abandoned active practice.
JoHK MlcHAU, is among the earlier practitioners at the
bar, of these now actively engaged. He is a self made man,
has attained a profound knowledge of the law, is a good
speaker, a cogent, close reasoner, and the able advocates of
Southern Illinois recognize in him a " foeman worthy of
their sttel." He came to this county in li^SS but did not
venture uj.on the practice of law until 18.')9. He is of an
ardent temperanii nt has a strong will and goes in to win.
Alexander Hood has been a member of the Randolph
county bar since 1862. He graduated from the law depart-
ment of the University of Michigan in 1861. In 1862 he
24
opened a law office in Sparta, bat soon after rem ived to
Chester, where he hn sinca resided. He has been several
times elected city attorney for Chester. He is now associated
with A. G G )rdon. The firm enjoys an excellent practice.
Abrm. G. Gordon is among the younger and rising mem-
bers o^'the Randolph bar, to which he was admitted in May
1871. He graduated from McKendree College in 1871.
He soon after opened a law ofiice in Steelville, but in 1874
removed to Chester where he has since resided. He was se-
lected the first Prosecuting Attormy of Randolph county,
afterward, the duties of which he ably discharged for several
months. His habits ofclo.se application, his extended gen-
eral knowledge have given him an intimate acquaintance
with the law, svhile his natural talents fit him for a high
professional rank.
John H. Lendsey, one of the most successful members of
the Randolph bar, in common with many others made the
school-room a stepping-stone to the legal profession. He
came to this county in 18-57, and prosecuted the work of
teaching with marked success until 1872, when he was
elected justice of the peace. He at once applied himself to
master the rudiments of law, and in 1873 was elected county
judge. The duties of this office he discharged with signal
ability, and soon entered upon a large and constantly in-
creasing pracace. In partnership with him is his son-in-
law,
Ralph E. Sprigg, a native of the county and son o^
James D. Sprigg, a former prominent citizen and office,
holder. Mr. Sprigg is attentive and determined. He is
making the best of his advantages, and success is assured.
Albert N. SPRAutJE, a native of New York, came to
Randolph county, locating in Spirta, in 1869. He had
studied law with Ju ige Haiumick, of Pinckneyville, and
been admitted to practice the year before. Mr. Sprague is
diligent, and has acquired considerable reputation as an ad-
vocate.
John R. McFie is one of the rising young lawyers of
southern Illinois. Was born where he yet resides. Studied
law with J. B Jones, and was admitted to the bar in 1870.
He has twice been elected a mendier of the House of Repre-
sentatives from his district, thus making law a stepping-
stone to political preferment. (See sketch elsewhere.)
Adam Ru.ssell, a young man of acknowledged ability,
is a native of the county and resides in Coukerville. When
asked with whom he had studied law, he promptly replied,
"With Adam Russell, fir." He was admitted in 1874, and
has acquired a fiue local practice in Coukerville, and sur.
rounding villages.
Jon.athan Cuestnutwood, located in Evansville, of
which place he is among the oldest rtsident-x, is a native of
Ohio. Was educated in Marietta College. Here he studied
law, although he did not enter upon its practice until a few
years ago. In 1874 he was elected a member of the State
Legislature.
Reuben J. Goddard is a native of this county. Gradu-
ated from the law department of Michigan University in
1864. His practice, commenced at Sparta immediately
thereafter, has become large and lucrative, made so by his
18G
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
uiifliigi;iiig zeal id behalf of the cause of clients aud his close
scrutiiij of the law. lu 1870 he was elected prosecuting
attorney of the Common Pleas court of Sparta. Elsewhere
in llii.s "ork is a biogra|>hical sketch.
Thomas T. ALEXANUt';R is a native of Randolph county-
Accjuired his education in the Indiana State University at
Blootnington. When a junior, left college to volunteer in
Co. F, 80lh Illinois Regiment. Read law with J. C. Law-
ber, now of St. Loi'.s, and was admitted to the bar at
Spriiiglield, 1878. Was .'iected city attorney in 1.S78.
J. C. Ha\vtho«nk, a native of Randolph county, is a
young and ambitious cuember of the bar. Taught school
for several years, aud while teaching was admitted to the
bar.
Do.v E. Dktrich was born in Sparta, this county. At-
tended the High School of his native town. Studied law
with John Michau, and for a year subsequently attended
St. Louis Law School. He was aiimitted to practice in
187'J, and in 1880 was elec ted proseci.ling uttoiney for Ran-
dolph county. He is a yo lug man oi ttuJiou' habits, perse-
verance and tict.
William Hartzell, a nat vo of OMj, was admitted to
the bar in l.S(14. Read law with J. P'jrry Johnson. His
commanding talents gained fi • him tlio nomination for and
election to Congress as member from his district in 1874, and
again in 1876. As a lawyer he is recognized as being pos-
sessed of ability, energy and unflagging zeal. He lately
formed a copartnership with J. B. Simpson.
J. B. SiMJ'sos, a native of Randolph county, is one of
nature's noblemen. He took up the study of law unaided
by teacher. Read Blackstoue's Commentaries whilst on his
father's larm As indicative of his judgment in selecting
text-bonks as a foundation for legal knowledge, we learn he
read Walk t's American Law, Greenleaf s Evidence, Par-
sons on Contracts, Chilly's Pleadings aud Wharton's Crim-
inal Law. Upon application he was admitted to the bar in
1871. His close application to whatever engages his atten-
tion, his acknowledged integrity of character and his urbane
manners bespeak him success. In the campaign of 1882 he
was the Republican candidate for cuunly judge, but was
defeated by sixteen votes.
H. C. Horner, of whom a sketch may be found elsewhere
in this work, was a native of Arkansas. He was admitted
to practice in 1877, and has rapidly taken high rank among
his fellows. Clear and forcible in argument, well versed in
the law, since he is a close student, he is steadily command-
ing a large and cons-tantly increasing practice.
James J. Morrison, of the noted family of thai name,
studied law with J. H. Wall and William Hartzell, and
was admitted in 1874.
Warren N. Wilson, a young man of promise, is a native
of this county. Studied law with Hartzell and Johnson.
Admitted 1>>77. Appointed Master in Chancery in 1880.
(See sketch.)
B. W. Sharp, practicing at Red Bud, came to the county
from Tamaroa, 111., in 1874. He is a graduate of the Law
Department of the University of 'Virginia, and was admitted
to the bar in 1838.
George L. Riess, the present efficient County Judge of
Randolph county, was admitted to the bar in Waterloo,
Monroe county, September, 1871. Came to Randolph
county in 1875. He studied with Charles Henckler, taking
a very thorough course. He is well read in the law. We
refer the reader to a biographical sketch of Judge Riess ou
another page of this work.
MONROE COUNTY.
former micmbers of the bar.
Charles Henckler was a native of Germany. Came
to America when about seventeen years of age. Followed
the vocation of cal)inet maker in Columbia for several
years, then merchandized and during this time was elected
Justice of the Peace. Whilst discharging the duties of this
office he acquired considerable knowledge of law, and in
1853 was admitted to the bar. He was a good lawyer and
special pleader. He was first a partner of Thomas Quick,
and subsequently of H. C. Talbott. He died in 1878.
Gi'.ORGE Abbott was an eastern man. He was admitted
to the bar in Waterloo in 1852. Remained here until the
breaking out of the late war when he enlisted as captain in
the Twenty-second Regiment, Illinois Infantry. Was
wounded at Belmont. Was subsequently appointed Pro-
vost Marshal for this district with headquarters at Alton.
After this he moved to Pinckueyville, Perry county, where
he died in 1878.
John C. Bonman practiced law in 1856-7. Afterwards
took Greeley's advice and went west to grow up with the
country.
Jame.s a. Kennedy, a graduate of the college of the
Christian Brothers, St. Louis, Mo., came to Waterloo in
1858. Admitted to the bar in 1862. Was elected School
Commissioner, the duties of which office he performed with
signal ability. He formed a copartnership with H. K. S.
Omelveny. Subsequently he moved to Springfield, Illinois,
where he was elected City Attorney. He was a mau of fine
legal attainments.
M.VTiiiAS Kramm, a citizen of Burksville, practiced a
short time, beginning in 1862. Moved to Belleville, thence
west.
Henry C Talbott, Sr., a native of Kentucky, came to
Monroe county in 1844. Was educated in McKendree
College. Taught school. Publi>hed the Waterloo Patriot.
Was admitted to practice in 1856. Served as justice of the
peace and county judge. Continued in his practice until
his death iu 1879 Was a partner of Cuailes Henckler. He
was a sound lawyer and good citizeiL
George Morrison, a native of 'iVatf rlno, read law in
the office of his brother, Hon W. R. Morrison. He was
educated in the college of ihe CliristiHU Brothers, i-t. Louis,
Mo. Admitted to practice in 1870. Held the office of
Master in Chancery several years. Died in 1881.
Thomas Quick, a native of Illinois, practiced law for a
number of yeaps in Waterloo, where he was for a time a
partner of Charles Henckler. He subsiqnently moved to
Belleville, thence to St. Louis.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
187
John Stanley, a young man of con.^iderable ability, a
native of the county, practiced a few years, begini ing about
1874. Went to Butler county, Missouri, where he died.
Charles W. Meykr, educated iu MiKeudree College,
practiced law iu Waterloo several years and runved to Leb-
anon, then to east St. L 'uis, where he dieil. He was an
able advocate, a mau of pre-eminent social qualities.
Edward Omelvesy washy nature a lawyer. Of Scotch-
Irish origin, he was at the same time an exponent of the
wit of the one and the hardihood of the other nationality.
During the years immediately preceding the Mexican War
he was regarded the leading legal light among lawyers of
the Waterloo bar, not that he was so profound in know-
ledge, but so quirk in repartee — so happy in his It'gal appli-
cations and possessed of tact that challenged admiration.
Upon one occasion he was fined by Judge Breese 8">'l for
contempt of court. Very promptly he arose from his scat,
called the attention of the sheriti", to whom he handed the
$50, saying: " Judge. I expected you wouM get ev<-n wiih
me, because thi-i is the moin-y I won from y<u last night,
playing pnker. " It is n 'edless to say that lh\< sally of wit
" brought down the house."
Of W. H. BissELi. at one time a ciiizen of Waterloo, af-
terwards governor of the state, and a frequent attendant on
the sessions of the court at Kaskaskia.the following interest-
ing sketch is given by Joseph (Jillespie, in an address deliv-
ered before the Chicago Historical Society ; Bissell was born
in New York in ISll, where he studied the medical profes-
sion, and removed to Monroe Co. Illinois. He had no fond-
ness for his profusion, though he had the reputation of be-
ing successful. He inclined to politics, where he displayed
marked abilities. He was elected as a Democrat from Mon-
roe County, to the legislature of I^ID, and was soon recog-
nized as one of the best speakers of the House of Represen-
tatives. He was characterized by the elegance of his style,
and diction, and a quaint sort of satire that was very cutting
and effective.
An ungovernable passion soon seized him to abandon his
profession, and betake himself to the law. He attended the
sessions of the courts as diligently as any of the lawyers, his
mind seemed to be engrossed with all that was going on
His friends, perceiving the bent of his inclination, advised
him to procure Blackstone's Commentaries, and go to work.
In an incredibly short space of time he was admitted to prac-
tice, and was soon appointed prosecuting attorney, and was
in his element. He stood at once in the front rank as a
prosecutor. He never failed to convict. It shortly came
to be considered a hopeless task to defend where he was
prosecuting. He was equal to any emergency.
Bissell prosecuted for murder a man named Raney, who
lived in Washington County, but was tried at Carlisle Clin-
ton County, and was defended by Judge Breese, in his own
county, where he had unbounded influence. Raney was a
respectable man, and u leider in the doTninant party ; there
wajB great room to doubt his guilt, and the court instructed
strongly in his favor. lie had an interesting wife and fam-
ily. Breese defended him with great zeal and ability. He
left no stone unturned, but after presenting the facts and
laws of the case with remarkable clearness and force, he ven-
tured upon an appeal to the sympathies in behalf of the wife
aud little children of his client. It was a most powerful ef-
fort, and the by -slanders all believed that he had saved his
man. But not .so ; by his eflorts to work upon the sympa-
thies of the jury, he had opened a door which let Bissell in
to play upon their fef lings. This was his forte. The scene
was at night ; the room was dimly lighted, and wore a sepul-
chral air ; and such word painting I shall never hear again-
as Bissell employed on that occasion. He turned the pic-
ture over, and portrayed the murdered man in his grave, his
winding sheet around him, his h«ir motted with clay, and
his shroud clotted with blood, streams of crimson gore trick-
ling still from his gaping wounds. He drew the mother and
little children to the edge of the grave where they could take
a la-t look at the cold and clammy remains of their beloved
hu.-band and father. He depicted their agony in such heart-
rending t<rms as to scarcely leave a dry eye in the house.
He turned the tide •<( sympathy, and it bee irae an irresisti-
ble torrent iu behalf of the bereaved widow and offspriug of
the dead. The iff- c*s of the splendid efforts of Breese were
all swept away. I realized then, to its fullest extent, the
power of language in the mouth of a master over the feel-
ings of mankind. The picture drawn by Bissell on that oc-
casion, has stamped itself imlelibly on ray mind. I see it i'.
the virions of the night. I hear his burning eloquence to
this day, ringing in ray ears. He triumphed, and poor Ra-
ney was loiiiil guilty. If that effirt In I b;en taken down,
and could be read by u — of itself — it would have raade the
name of William II. Bi;sell immortal. Judge Joseph Gil-
lespie, of Edwardsville, to \>'hose graphic pen we are indebt-
ed for the above sketch, is now one of the few survivors of
that band of active men who were f 'reniost in shaping the
political sentiment of the state forty years ago.
Hesry W. Billings, an eastern man, located in Water-
loo, in the practice of his profession in 1837, and left in
1845 for Alton, where he continued to resiile until the tirae
of his death. He was a very able aud excellent speaker,
conducted his cases with much a<'roitncss, and was not often
excelled in the preparation and management of business in
the higher courts. He was a man of engaging manners and
splendid presence, and was exceedingly popular with the
bar and the people.
PRESENT MEMBERS OF THE BAR.
Hon. William R. Morrison, a native of Monroe county,
was admitted to the bar in Springfield, Illinois, whilst a
member of the state Legislature in 1850, and opened an
ofHce in Waterloo afler his return. He rapidly took his
place as the leading attorney of the county, until he mea-
surably abandoned its practice to become a member of Con-
gress. Whilst a member of the Legislature, he was made
Speaker of the House. He was first elected to Congress in
1802, again in 1S72, since which time he has continuously
been kept in that body by the franchise of his fellow-
citizens. As chairman of the Ways and Mejms Committee he
developed great tact and further enileared himself to his
constituency. He is a man of broad, liberal culture, of
188
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
sound legal knowledge, of practical and well-(l< fined ideas
regarding the wants of the masses. As a lawyer he receives
recognition as heing pos-sesjed of ability and strict integ-
rity— two elements that give weight to his opinions.
8PENCER Tompkins, a native nl Galefburg. I'liiDis, edu-
cated in FCnox college of tliat city, came lo Waterloo in
1880. He read law with Col. Beardsley, of Rock Island,
and was admitted to the bar in Davenport, Iowa, in 1865.
He U acquiring a fair practice.
Joseph W. Rickekt, born in Vicksburg, Mississippi,
was 1 ducated and grai'uated from the St. Louis Uuiverjity,
St. Louis, Mo. He came to Waterloo as a teacher in her
public schools ; read law with H. K. S. Omelveny at Cen-
tral City, Marion county, Illinois, and subsequently iu the
office of James A. Kennedy, of Waterloo. He soon after
went south and resumed teaching; then returning to Illinois,
read law in office of Johnson & Hartzell, of Chester, and in
March, 1869 was admitted to the bar. In the fall of the
Bame year he was elected superintendent of the public
schools of Monroe county, a position he filled with credit
for four years In 1873 he buckled on the armor as an at-
torney, and soon placed himself by untiring energy and
perseverance in the front rank, a positinn he still retains.
In 1875 he was elected a member of the State Legislature.
He is clear and logical in his presentation of cases before
the court, being well read in the law ; is a man of ripe scho-
larship, a fine linguist and an excellent companion.
Emery P. Slate, a native of Massachusetts, now one of
the prominent members of the legal fraternity of Monroe
county, came to Illinois in 1836 In 1854 his parents
moved to Waterloo, Missouri, where he irregularly studied
law in the office of S. Kibbs, until the breaking out of the
war, practicing on some oc(asions before a justice of the
peace in the vicinity where he lived. In June, 1861, he
entered the army and assisted in raising the 1st Regiment
of North Missouri Infantry. He became quartermaster of
the regiment. In 1862 he returned to Illinois and took up
his residence in Waterloo, Monroe county. He has achieved
marked success in the practice of law, and the esteem in
which he is held as a citizen does not fall below his profes-
sional standing.
Henry Talbott, son of H. C. Talbott, a native of the
county, was educated iu the public schools and in Wyman's
Institute, city of St. Louis, Mo. ; read law in the office of his
father; in 1876 entered the law department of Harvard
University, Cambridge, Mass., but was soon after called to
Washington, D. C, as clerk to the Ways and Means com-
mittee, whose chairman was Hon. W. R. Morrison. He was
admitted to the bar in 1878, at Mt. Vernon. He is a rising
young lawyer, earnest and faithful in the discharge of all
the duties devolving upon him.
Charles Morrison was born in Waterloo, educated in
McKendree College, from which institution he graduated in
1875. Read law in the office of his brother, Hon W. R.
Morrison, and subsequently with H. C. Talbott. Was
admitted iu 1878. He is industrious, painstaking, and a
genial and pleasant gentleman.
William H. Horine, a native of Waterloo, graduated
from McKendree College in 1875. Read law with George
Morrison and subsequently with Michau and Riess. Was
admitted at the June term of the Supreme Court at Mt. Ver-
non, 1878.
James F. Cauniff hails from New York. Came to
Illinois with his parents in ISS.'i. He was educated iu the
college of the Christian Brothers, St. Louis, Mo Read law
and was admitted during the session (if the Appellate Court
at Springfield in June, 1880, and afterwards commenced the
practice in Waterloo. During the campaign of 1882 he
was elected a member of the Legislature from this district.
He i3 recognized as being a man of ability.
George L. Riess, a former practitioner here, is men-
tioned iu the article on the Bench and Bar of Randolph
county.
PERRY COUNTY.
The first term of the Circuit Court was held at the house
of Amos Anderson in Holt's Prairie, August 28, 1827.
Pre-sent: The Hon. Theophilus W. Smith, a Justice of the
Supreme Court of said State, and presiding judge of said
Circuit Court ; Humphrey B. Jones, clerk, and William C
Murphy, sheriflF.
David J. Baker was appointed in the ab.sence of the
circuit attorney to prosecute as said attorney.
Theophilus W. Smith, the first judge of Perry county,
was a native of Virginia, emigrated to Kentucky, there read
law, and soon after his admission, came to Illinois, and took
up his residence in Edwardsville. There he edited a pro-
b'avery newspaper during the exciting campaign of 1823-24,
when the question was settled as to vphether the constitution
of the State should be so amended as to admit slavery. Soon
after he was appointed one of the justices of the Supreme
Court. In 1835 he was impeached by the House of Repre-
sentatives for misdemeanors iu office, and was ably defended
by Sydney Breese as leading counsel, assisted by Thomas
Ford, Judge Richard M. Young and J. W. Whitney. He
was acquitted of the charge. Judge Smith was an able law-
yer but of somewhat pompous mien, and when upon the
bench the very incarnation of dignity. His decisions how-
ever, were regarded in the main as usually correct, and if he
erred it was usually on the side of mercy.
Judge Smith continued to preside in the circuit until the
April term, 1829, when Thomas C. Brown, another justice
of the Supreme Court, held the courts. Prisent: Hum-
phrey B. Jones and William C. Murphy. Judge Brown
presided until the May term, 1835, when Alexander F.
Grant presided iu the courts of Perry county. Judge Grant
held but one term of the court when he was superseded by
the Hon. Jephthah Hardin, who was appointed Judge of the
Third Judicial Circuit of the State. He presided at the May
term, 1836, and until the May term, 1837, when he was
succeeded by Walter B. Scales, who was elected to the posi-
tion of Judge of the Third Judicial Circuit. Of Judges
Grant and Hardin but little is known. Judge Scales pre-
sided until the April term, 1843, when the Hon. James
Semple presided.
Judge Scales was appointed to the Supreme Bench i
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
189
1840, and served with distinction in that body until 1857_
when he resigned. He was well read in the law and had
been prior to his election State's Attorney of the Third Judi-
cial District.
Judge Sf;Mri.n held but nno term of court in Perry
county. .He was succeeded by James Sliields, who presided
in this circuit until the April term, 184').
JlTDrtK J.\MK.-i SiiiKi.DS was of Irish birth. He read law
in the office of Elias Kent Kane at Kaskaskia. Upon the
reorganization of the Supreme Court of the State, he was
appointed one of the justices of the Supreme Court. Further
mention is made of Judge Shields in the article on Bench
and Bar of Randolph county.
At the April term, 1845, Hon. Gust.vvus Koernek, of
Belleville, St. Clair county, came to the bench and presided
over the courts of Perry county until the April term, 1849,
•when he was succeeded by Hon. William H. Underwood.
Judge Koerner is a native of Gernuuiy, and was educated at
Univer.>ity of Munich, and completed his studies at Heidle-
berg, receiving the dtgrse of LL.D. In the Republican
uprising of 18:52, he took an active part which rendered him
obnoxious to the reigning powers. In consequence thereof
he, »fter much tr-biilation and several arrests, escaped to
this county. He took up his residence in Belleville, Illinois^
and commenced the study of American law. He attended
the law school at Lexington, Kentucky, and in 18;i.") was
admitted to the bar In 184.5 he was appointed by the
Governor of the State to a position on the Supreme bench,
and in the following year was elected to the same position.
In 18")"2 he was elected Lieutenant Governor of Illinois,
being the first German nominated and elected to that position^
During the late war he was appointed by President Lincoln
colonel of Volunteers, and assigned tea position on the staff"
of General Fremont. In 18(52 he represented this country
at the Court of Madrid as Minister, and had much to do in
maintaining the strict neutrality of that foreign power dur-
ing tlie progress of the civil war. As a judge upon the bench
he had the reputation of being a clear logical reasoner, and
his decisions were m rked by great clearness and research.
Hos. WiLLiAJt H. Underwood pre.'<ided in this circuit
until the October term 1855. Judge Underwood was born
in Schoharie county. New York, February 1818. He re-
ceived his education in the Academy of his native county,
and Hudson River Seminary. In June 1^40 he came to
Belleville, Illinois, and commenced the practice. He was
elected a member of the State Senate in 1856. In 18(59 he
was chosen a member of the Constitutional convention that
framed the present constitution of the state. He was an able
lawyer, not only in one but in all branches of the profession.
At the October term of the circuit court, 1855, held in
the county of Perry, Sidney Bkee.se presided and con-
tinued until the April term 1857 when ho was appointed to
the supreme bench to fill the vacancy occasioned by the
resignation of Hon. Walter B. Scates.
Judge Breese'.s history is so well known to the people
of Illinois that it is unnecessary to speak of him at length.
He was born in Oneida county, New York, in 1>;()(). He
graduated at Union College which was presided over b}' the
celebrated Dr. Nott, in 1818. He came west to Kask:u«kia
the same year and read law at the office of Elias Kent Kane.
In 1822 he was appointed by Gov. Bond circuit attorney and
reappointed by l^dwin Coles In 1S27 he was appointed by
President Madison attorney for the state of Illinois. In 1831
he compiled and reported the decisions of the supreme
court. The result was "Breese's Reports" published at
Kaskaskia in IS.'il and the first book printed in Illinois. In
1835, on the establishment of circuit courts, he was elected
Judge of the second judical circuit, then comprising the
counties of Madison, St. Clair, Monroe, Randolph, Washing-
ton, Clinton, Bond, Fayttte, Montgomery and Shelby. In
1838 there came before his court the celebrated and at that
time exciting question of the power of the governor to re-
move the incumbent of the office of secretary of slate, and to
appoint anoiher. The question as-sumed a personal and a
partisan, as well as a legal aspect, though Judge Breise
treated it, in one of the most elaborate judicial ojunions ever
delivered in this state, purely as a legal matter. Ho decided
that the power existed but the suprenje court reversed the
judgment. Judge Breesc remained on the bench until in
December 1842 when he was elected United States Si nator.
In the fall of 1850 he was elected without opposition to the
Legislature and upon the organization of that bejdy was
elected Speaker. In 1857 when Judge Walter B. Scates re-
signed he was elected to fill the vacancy and again elected in
June 1861, re-elected and held a position on the supreme
bench until his death, which occurred June 27th, 1878. It
may be said of Judge Brec-^e that he united the scholar with
the statesman, the jiolished gentleman, warm-hearted, cordial
companion with the gravity and profundity of an able and
experienced jurist. One of the most significant tributes to
his character is that though exposed for sixty years ^\ilh
public service of the state as circuit and state attorney,
judge upon the circuit, senator, legislator, lawyer and judge
upon the supreme bench, in both judicial and political life
a conspicuous mark for personal and political hatred, j et
slander and calrauny have failed to leave a single blemifh
upon his great name and reputation.
'■.V combination and lorm in deed
Where every pod did seem to set Ilia seal
To give the wnrhl nssnrnnce of a man."
Judge Breese was succeeded by Wm. K. Parrish, who
was commissioned January 4th, 1854, but held no term in
Perry county until April 18.57. He resigned June 15th,
1859, and died April 22ud, 1861. He was a resident of
Franklin county, Illinois, removed to Du Quoin after his
election and resided there until his death. He was a man
of signal ability a very clear-headed lawyer and presidexl
with great dignity.
He was succeeded by Alexander M. Jenkin-s who first
presided at the .September term 1859. He was elected to
fill the vacancy occasioned by the resignation of Judge Par-
rish, anel re elected and commissioned July 1st, 18(51, and
presided until his death, which occurred Feb. 13th, 1864.
He was a resident of Murphcyboro, Jackson county, and
was closely connected with the Logan family, of which Gen.
John A. is a distinguished member. He was well advanced
in years when he came to the bench. He gave good satis-
faction as a Judge and was regarded as a good lawyer.
190
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
He was Fucceeded by Hon. John K. Mulkey of Cairo.
He came on the bench at the April term 1804, and presided
until the April terra 1866, when he resigned and was suc-
ceeded by Wm. H. Green, who was commissioned December
28th, 1865, and held until the April term 1867.
Hen. John H. Mulkey, after his retirement practiced law
in the third judicial circuit and attained eminence in his
profession. In 1879 he was elected to the Supreme bench
of the state.
Hon. William H. Green was and is yet a resident of
Cairo, Illinois, and is a prominent lawyer.
Hon. Monroe C. Crawford was elected judge of the third
judicial circuit, and commissioned June 27th, 1867, and held
this po ition until the new apportionment, when he was
changed to the first circuit, and was re-elected for a full term
of six years. His time expired at the May term 1873. He
is a native of Franklin county, Illinois. He received his
primary education in the common schools, and his literary
education at McKendree College. He read law in the office
of Hon. William K Parri.-h at Benton, and was admitted to
the bar in 1856. He served two terms as states' attorney.
He is a resident of Jonesboro, Illinois county, and still
engaged in practice.
In June 16th, 1873, Hon. Amns Watts, of Nashville, was
elected judge and presided until 1877, when the circuits were
consolidated and it was made the third circuit, and is at
present presided over by Judges Amos Watts, William H.
Snyder and George W. Wall.
Hon. Amos Watts is a native of Illinois, and was reared
in Nashville, Washington county. He read law with Hon.
P. H. Hosmer, and, soon after his admission, was elected
states' attorney. He h s been upon the circuit bench since
1873. He is a pains taking, able ard careful judge.
Hon. George W. Wall is a native of this, but a resident of
Perry, county since 1840. He was ( ducated at McKendree
College, Ltbanon, Illinois, and graduated from the literary
department of the University of Michigan at Ann Arbor in
1858, and from the Cincinnati Law School in 1859. He
read law in the office of Cyrus G. Simons of Cairo, Illinois,
and was admitted to the bar at the June term of the Su-
preme Court, held at Mt. Vernon, in 1859. He commenced
the practice in Perry county. In 1864 he was elected states'
attorney for the judicial district. When the districts were
consolidated he was elected one of the judges of this judicial
district. In 1879 he was appointed by the Supreme Court
one of the judges of the Appellate Court of the Fourth Dis-
trict of Illinois, and is now serving in that capacity. He
was a member of the Constitutional Convention of 1862 and
1870-71. Judge Wall possesses a bright legal mind. Few
judges upon the bench have superior perceptive powers. His
statement of a legal proposition is clear, logical and con-
vincing. He gets at the heart and real merits of the point
in question in the shortest and most direct manner, stripping
it of all verbiage and sophisms until it stands out clear and
perceptible to all concerned. His power of concentration
and presenting the real point or pith of a case is good.
Hon. William H.Snyder, of Belleville, Illinois, the third
judge in this circuit, was born iu Prairie du Point, St. Clair
county. Ills. His father, Adam W. Snyder, was in his day
one of the leading lawyers of Southern Illinois. William
H. Snyder completed his education at McKendree College,
in his native county. He prepared himself for the legal
profession in the office of Hon. Gustavus Koerner of Belle-
ville. He served his country in the Mexican war, and was
adjutant of the Fifth Illinois regiment. He was twice
elected to represent his district in the legislature, and in
1855 was appointed states' attorney by Governor Mattison.
He was elected judge of the circuit court in 1857, and was
on the bench until l''<62. In 1870-71 he was a member of
the Constitutional Convention that framed the present Con-
stitution of the State. He was elected Judge of the Circuit
Court in 1873 and reelected in 1879, and alternates with
Judges Watts and Wall in holding the courts of Perry
county. He is a gentleman of genial manners and warm^
generous impulses, of great literary attainments, and a
thorough jurist. He has made an efficient and popular
judge.
Non-resident Lawyers. — The early sessions of the Perry
county courts were usually attended by the lawyers compris-
ing the bar of Kaskaskia, Chester, Cairo, Belleville, Ed-
wardsville, Nashville and Shawneetown Among the ear-
liest lawyers to practice at this bar, and who were present at
the opening of the first court, was Diniel J. Baker. The
records show that he was appointed States' Attorney pro tern.
at the first court. He was a native of New York and a
resident of Kaskaskia. In 1829, Henry Eddy, of Shawnee-
town, commenced attendance upon the circuit courts of the
county ; also, Richard J. Hamilton. The next year
came Sidney Breese, Alexander F. Grant, Walter B. Scates,
John Dougherty of .Johnsboro. William H. Ramsey was
States' Attorney. The next year came Martin Doriyes, A.
P. Field, who was an eminent lawyer from Kaskaskia, after-
wards removed to Vandalia ; Adam W. Snyder of St. Clair
county, who was the Democratic candidate for Governor of
the State in 1842, and died during the campaign ; Stephen
R. Rowen, James Shields (afterwards judge), and United
States Senator John Reynolds (the " Ranger " Governor),
John A McClernand, then of Gallatin county, now of Spring-
field, Illinois. In 1834 came Samuel S. Marshall, from Mc-
Leansboro, a fine lawyer, and subsequently elected judge of
the Circuit Court, and also represented his district in Con-
gress several terms. Jepthah Hardin and Lyman Trumbull
commenced the practice in the courts of Perry in 1838,
and .1. L D. Morrison in the same year. Stephen G. Hicke,
M.C Kinney, W. H. Stickney, Willes Allen, L. B. Clement,
John Whitehead, William H. Underwood, Richard Nelson,
Joseph Gillespie, George Trumbull, Philip B. Fouke, L C.
Holbrook, P. E. Hosmer, Richard S. Bond, of Carlyle; W.
J. Galewood, of Shawneetown ; John A. Logan, Judge Duff,
Samuel Casey, Benj. Bond, W. A. J. Sparks, Joshua Allen,
F. Albright, I. N. Haynie, subsesquently Adjutant General
of the State; A. P.Corder, W.K. Parrish, William Hacker,
John Michen, R. S. Nelson, Nathan S. Weeks, Samuel
Eaton and Geo. Abbotts were among the prominent lawyers
who practiced in the courts of Perry county. Last but not
least was William H. Bissell. We subjoin a brief sketch
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
191
of hiiu : He was born iu New York iu l'^ 11, where he
stu lied ti>r tlie medical professiou, aud removed to Mouroe
couiUy llliuois. He abandoned medicine soon af'ler, aud
took up the profession of law, in which he became eminent.
In 1840 he was elected a member of the legislature, aud
served with distinguished honor in that body and was recog-
nized as one of the ablest debaters aud speakers on the floor
of the House. At the breaking out of the Mexican war he
was commissioned colonel of the Second llliuois regiment,
and won the plaudits jf the whole country for his gallant
actions on the field of Buena Vista. He was elected to
Congress, aud, in 18.56, became Governor of Illinois, and
died near the close of his gubernatorial terra. He was a
fine lawyer, but specially excelled as an advocate. He
was irresistible before a jury, and none excelled him in the
use of language and power to stir the deeper feelings of his
hearers.
FORMER AND PRESENT RESIDENT LAWYERS.
Among the first resident attorneys was Humphrey B.
Jones, who destrves more than a passing notice. He was a
native of Christian county, Kentucky. He there studied
medicine, aud in 1821 came to Illinois, and settled in
Brownsville, in Jackson county, and practiced his profession.
In April, 1^27, he came to Perry county, which had by an
act of the Legislature of 1826-7 been organized as a county.
He entered the laud on which the town of Pinckneyville
now stands. When the courts were organized he was
appointed clerk, and held that position for fourteen years.
He iu fact held all the county offices for a number of years,
aud was also the only physician aud postmaster of the town.
During his term as county officer he acquired considerable
knowledge of the law, and was frequently called upon for
advice as to the proper method of bringing suits; in short,
was the oracle who was consulted in all kinds of business.
He commenced the practice in the courts regularly, and
was soon employed on one side or the other of every case
that was tried in the courts of Perry county. His prac-
tice was large, but not so lucrative as it would be at the
present day. Then a ten dollar fee covered a large amount
of work, both in the preparation of the case and its progress
through the courts. He was regarded as an able lawyer,
and perhaps had no superior iu southern Illinois as a
chancery and real estate lawyer. His large practice con-
tinued until his death, which occurred November 18th,
18.55. He was the judge of the probate court for many
years.
C. L. Starbi'ck, a resident attorney of Perry county,
was a native of New York, and came to the county about
1841, and commenced practice He was a good lawyer.
He removed to the northern part of the State, and there
died about l85(i.
William Eowards came to Pinckneyville iu 1830. He
was born in Athens, Vermont, February 14th, 1805. The
family moved to Ohio in an early day, a. d from there to
Shawneetown, and Mr Kdwards came to this county on
the date above mentioned. He followed the mercaitile
business here until 1.S4.'5, when he commenced the practice of
law, which he continued until his death, April 10th, 1854,
The Court records disclose the fact that he, too, had a large
practice, and is remembered as a sound, thorough lawyer.
Pkksley p. Ha.milton was a brilliant young lawyer.
He was born in White county, Illinois, Marcii 25lh, 1824.
He read law in the office of Hon. S. S. Marshall, of
McLeausboro, llliuois. Before he finished his studies he
removed to Pinckneyville, and continued his studies under
William Edwards. He was admitted to the bar in 184G.
He practiced in the surrounding courts. In 1858 he entered
the Law Scliool at Louisville, and graduated from that
institution in February, 1859 He succeeded to a fine
lucrative practi('e and contiuued therein until 1863, when he
abandoned the law and entered the ministry of the M. E.
church, aud died iu the rainistry October 22d, 1869.
Lewis HaMMAck, attorney at law, has now the honor of
being the "oldest man on the job." He was born iu War-
ren county, Pa , June 25th, 1825, and was but two years
of age when the family came to llliuois. He was educated
in the subscription schools of Perry county. During the
Mexican War he was a member of Company K, of the
Second Regiment, llliuois Volunteers, commanded by
Colonel Bissell. After the war ho returned aud taught
school several terms. During that time he obtained a copy
of "Chitty on Contracts," which awakened in him a desire
to study for the profession. In the meantime he was elected
circuit clerk, and served until 1852, then the year following
obtained his license and commenced practice. His position
of circuit clerk gave him a knowledge of forms which was
a great help to him, and he soon had a large practice, partic-
ularly on the chancery side, and in real estate litigation.
Like many of the old lawyers, while he had a large practice,
yet in consequence of the fees being small he failed to reap
the just rewards that should always attend industry and
ability. He was master in chancery two terms, and was a
candidate for judge of the circuit in 1861, and again in 1864,
but each time was defeated by a small majority.
William McEwing, an attoruey of Waterloo, Monroe
county, came to Piuckueyville in 1855, and continued here
three ytars, then removed to St. Louis, and is now prac-
ticing in Missouri. He is more particularly remembered in
connection with the journalism of the county, and is credited
with being the first editor and publisher of a newspaper in
Pinckneyville.
William H. McKee was from the east. He came to
Piuckueyville in 18.56. He was a graduate of the Law
School at Louisville, Kentucky. He removad to Belleville
iu 1861 and diid the year following. He was a bright,
talented lawyer, and gave evidence of a brilliant career, but
the dread disease, consumption, carried him off before he
had reached th^ zenith of his professional career.
JuDOE Georoe W. Wall, of Du Quoin, is mentioned
in the bench of the county.
Hon. William K. Murphey is to the "manor born."
He i= a native of Perry county. He received his education
in the common schools, aud private instruction under the
tuition of B. G. Roots, a veteran educator of Perry couuty.
In 1859 he entered the law office of William H. McKee,
of Pinckneyville, and commenced the study of law. He
192
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
pursued his ftuiiies diligently, and in the sjiring of 1860
was admitted to the bir. la 1861 he was appointed master
in chancery, in which position he continued until 1865, after
which he confined himself closely to the practice. A^ a
trial lawyer he has no superior in the county, is well read
in the la*, and is an advocate of more than ordinary force.
He represented his district in the Twenty-fourth, Twenty-
fifth and Thirty-first General Assemblies of the State. In
1872 he was elected a member of the State Senate, and
served in that body for four years. He was also a candidate
for Congress in the Twentieth Congressional District in
1882.
Judge William Elstun, who until recently was a resi-
dent lawyer of Perry county, is a native of Franklin
county, Illinois. He came to Du Quoin a short time before
the late war. He was regarded as a good lawyer, particu-
larly in probate law. He was county judge for twelve
years. He is now a resident of Emporia, Kansas.
Mortimer C. Edwards is the sou of William Edwards,
who was one of the early resident lawyers of Perry county.
He was born in i'iuckneyville and received his early educa-
tion in the public schools, and in the Masonic College at
Lexington, Missouri. He read law in the office of Lewis
Hammack, and was admitted to the bar in 1860. During
the war he enlisted for three years, and was captain of
Company C, of the Eighty-first Regiment, Illinois Volun-
teer Infantry. In 1880 he was elected States Attorney, and
at present he is prosecuting attorney. He is a good lawyer
and able prosecutor.
Hon. John Boyd is a native of Randolph county, Illi-
nois. He received his education in the common schools,
and subsequently followed the profession of teaching. He
read law with Lewis Hammack, and was admitted to the
bar in 1862. He formed a partnership with his preceptor,
which continued one year From 1806 to 18.S2 he was
associated in the practice with William K. Murphey. Mr.
Boyd possesses a fine legal mind of a logical and analytical
order, and excels a-i a pleader. He represented his district
in the Legislature in the session of 1876-77.
Richard M. D.wis is a native of Jackson county. 111. ;
he was educated in the common schools, and read law in the
office of Louis Hammack, and was admitted to the bar in
May, 1864. During the late rebellion he was lieutenant in
Co. I of the 80ih Reg't 111 Vols. He served one term as
superintendent of schools of Perry county. In 1876 he was
elected State's attorney, and served one term. He was a
vigilant prosecutor, and earned the commendation of the
good citizens of Perry county.
Robert R. Townes, a resident lawyer of Du Quoin, was
a native of Franklin county, 111., and came to Perry county
iu 1865, and was State's attorney for the judicial cir-
cuit from 1868 to 187?. He removed to Jonesboro', in
Union county, and subsequently to Athens, Alabama, where
he at present resides.
Edward V. Pierce is a native of Liverpool, England,
and emigrated to America in 1848. He learned the printer's
trade, and for some time edited and published a newspaper
in Franklin county. He read law iu the office of Judge
William A. Denning, of Benton, Franklin county, and was
admitted to the bar in 1851. He was State's attorney of the
26th judicial circuit from 1858 to 1860, and master in
chancery for a number of years. He came to Du Quoin in
1864, and in 1874 removed to St. Louis and practised there.
He returned to Perry county in 1882, and has continued
the practice here to the present. Mr. Pierce is a good lawyer,
well posted in the elementary principles of the law, and has
been a successful practitioner.
G Parks, a resident attorney of Du Quoin, is a native of
Indiana. He commenced the study of law with Cyrus G
Simons, of Jonesboro', 111., and was admitted to the bar in
1856 ; commenced the practice in Johnson county. In 1862
he went into the service, and was mustered out as captain at
the close of the war. After the war he came to Du Quoin>
and continued the practice. In 1881 he was appointed
county judge by the county commissioners, and in 1882 was
elected to the same position.
Hon. T. T. Fountain is a native of Washington county,
111. He received his primary education in the common
schools and his literary training at McKendree College,
Lebanon, Illinois, and subsequently graduated from the law
department of the University of Michigan, at Ann Arbor, in
the class of 1868. He commenced the practice at Du Quoin,
in connection with Judge Munroe C. Crawford. During the
late war he enlisted for three years in Co. K of the 13th 111.
cavalry, and passed through the grades to the second lieu-
tenancy. He resigned in 1864. He was master in chancery
from 1873 to 1875. He represented his district iu the 38th
General Assembly. Mr. Fountain has a good practice and
possesses an excellent knowledge of his profession.
Dempsey Fountain, who was until recently a resident
attorney of Perry county, is a native of Williamson county,
111 He received his legal education at the University of
Michigan, and was admitted to the bar in 1869. He was
State's attorney from l.'<72 to 1876. He is now a resident
of Big Stone City, Dacotah Territory.
R. W. S. Wheatley was born iu St. Clair county in
1850. He received a fair English education in the schools
of Perry county. He read law iu the office of Colonel R. R.
Townes, of Du Quoin, and was admitted to the bar in 1871.
Commenced the practice in Du Quoin. He is a man of
taleut and eucrgy, and bids fair to attain eminence in his
profession.
A. R. PuGH was an attorney at the Perry county bar. He
was a native of Wales. Commenced the practice here in
1865. He moved to Jackson county, and died there in 1881.
1. K. P. Rayland, an attorney, and at present justice of
the peace at Pinckneyville, is a native of Perry county.
Read law in the office of F. M. Youngblood, of Benton, 111.,
and also attended the Law School at the same place, and of
which Judge A. D. Duff was principal. He was admitted
to the bar in 1869, and commenced the practice at Pinck-
neyville. He has served several terms as justice of the peace.
E. H. Lemen is a native of St. Clair county. 111. He
read law in the office of Hon. John B Hay, of Belleville,
111., and was admitted to the bar in 1868. He is also a gra-
duate of the law department of the University of Michigan.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
193
Came to Perrj couuty in 1869, and commenced the practice
here. He is an able lawyer and a pleasing and eloquent
speaker (tor further mention, see biographical sketch).
Evan B. Rushinu was boru in Bedford couuty, Tennes-
see, but was reared in Perry county. 111. In ISotJ he was
elected circuit clerk and re-elected in 1<H(J0, and served eight
years. He was admiited to the bdr in 1868, and has been
master in chancery ever since, except two years, from 1873
to 1875.
Georue Abbott, of Waterloo, 111., came to Pinckneyville
in 1872, and practised here uutil his death, in 1870.
William M. Breese was born in Clinton county, III., in
1839. He was educated in Rock River Seminary, at Mount
Morris, in Ogle couuty ; then spent one 3-ear at MeKendree_
and graduated at the St. L ruis University, in the class of
lH.57. Read law in the office of his father, the late Chief
Justice Sidney Breese, and was admitted to the bar in 1870.
Commenced the practice in Carlyle, III. Came to Pinckney-
ville in 1M7), and has continued the practice here. During
the late war he was first lieutenant, commanding Co. E of
the Itith regular infantry, 2d battalion, and served until in
the latter part of 1S()4.
W. W. Ed\vakd.s is a native of Perry couuty. 111. ; was
educated at McKendree College, graduating in the class of
1873, and read law in the office of his brother, M. C. Ed-
wards, and with Messrs. Rayland & Raylaud, of Lexington^
Mo., and was admitted to the- bar there. Commeuced toe
practice in Carletou, Thayer county, Nebraska, and came to
Pinckneyville in 18M, and has continued the practice here.
Thomas Bovd is a native of Randolph county. III. Re-
ceived his education in the common schools, and subsequently
followed the profession of teaching. In l'<70 he commenced
the study of law, in the office of Murphey & Boyd, and at
the spring term of the supreme court, held at Springfield,
187-1, passed a highly creditable examination and was ad-
mitted to the bar. He formed a law partnership with his
preceptors, and the firm of Murphey & Boyd Bros, continued
until the summer of 1882, when it was dissolved. Mr Boyd
removed, in the latter part of l.S'S2, lo Mound City, Pulaski
county, where at present he is continuing the practi e.
B. W. Pope, of Du Quoin, is a native of Franklin county,
Illinois. He was educated at the Industrial Univer.-ity at
Urbana, Illinois Read law in the office of Hon. George \V_
Wall, of Du (^uoin. He received his legal education in the
Law Department of the Washington Univeroitj' at St. Louis
and at the Union Law School at Chicago, and was admitted
to the bar at the June term of the Supreme Court held at
Mt. Vernon. He commenced the practice in Perry county,
where he still continues.
Henry Clay, a resident lawyer of Tamaroa, Perry county,
is a native of Pope count}', Illinois. Received his education
in the common schools and two years at the Wesleyan Uni-
versity at Bloomington, Illinois. Head law with Hatch and
Prince, of Bloomington, and was admitted to the bar in
McLean county in 1800, and soon thereafter commenced the
practice in Perry county.
M. G. Kelso is a native of Kentucky. Commenced
reading law in 1809 with T: T. Fountain, at Du Quoin, and
25
was admitted to the bar in 1870. In the same year he
graduated from the Law Department of the St. Louis Uni-
versity, ('ommenced the practice in Du Quoin.
Henry P. Scott, one of the bright young lawyers at the
bar of Perry county, is a native of Vermont. He received
his education in the public schools and academy of hig
native place. He came to Illinois in 1800, and to Du Quoin
in 1870. He read law in the office of Judge S. G. Parks,
and was admitted to the bar in August, 1881. He com-
menced the practice in Du Quoin, and so far has given
every evidence of success in his chosen profession.
There were a few other lawyers who were residents of
Perry county for a brief time, among whom was Colonel
Joseph A Nuses. He came to Du Quoin in 1872, re-
mained a short time, and then moved to Louisville, Ky.
Also James W. Blair, who was an attorney, and was su-
perintendent of schools one term. He died September 17,
1879.
D. B. Van Svckle, an attorney, practiced here, and was
also for a short time engaged in publishing a newspaper.
T.here were probably some others, but their stay here was
brief, and they were comparatively " briefless."
CHAPTER X.
EISTOE Y OF THE PRESS.
Illinou Herald, IlUnoit InlrHioencer, KoAntki'i Recorder. Kdxl.tstia RrTittblicmt, Colum-
bus Heralii, Sparta Herald, Sparta Democrat, R tlulolpU C lunti/ Record, Chesler Revcdle,
Saiithern Idiania Advocate, Chester Heral I, Prairie Dentoerai, Siiarta Freeman, Sparta
Jounial, Independent, Star of the West, Sparta Piainlealer, WeeHi) Randolph Omat)
Democrat, Egyptiim Picket Guard, Valleij Clarion, Valtelj Clarion Prtutitig Compawj,
Tlie Frie BlaeUcr, Chester Trilimie, Grenihuci Gazette. Bi<ihtcen-E ghtij. The Rjyptiats
Courier, Rett Bad Courier, Courier, Recitw, Chronicle, The Item, 0«r Woik, Indepm-
dent Democrat, War Eagle, Potritil, Adrertirrr, Waterloo Adcocate, Monroe Democrat,
Times, Freie Presse, Gazette. Voice of Monroe, iVi-ij (kmnln Times, Du <*ioin AKiiin;
Joarnal, SUirt nud Stripes, Da Quoia Recorder. Ttilimie and Recorder, Progress, T>U>um
Itrpnhliran. Bnunrr. Perrg Counlij Watchman, Enterprise, Star, Item, Neat, Independent
II r.,1, ;■ : . ;, I I ,.,;;, Sijnal, The I're^s, Da tjnuin Press.
H fr^^Jr7>f^ 1 1 1 ]•' newspaper history of Illinois is as in-
.•',;S=v'nl / dli. t^.resting and checkered as that of the
<SiAVv.5iJ^ 'Via race or nation. Much of it is involved
n X \^?^^'?7 'l ^ '" darkness, and comes down to us in a
traditionary form. Writers disagree as
to the date of the first appearance of a
newspaper in Illinois. Reynolds says
that it was as early as 1809, while others
equally reliable fix the dale in 1814.
All, however, agree that the I/linois Herald was the first
paper published in the Territory, and that Matthew Duncan
was the publisher and editor. These points being settled,
we are prepared to fix positively the date of its first appear-
ance. We are in possession of No. 32 of Vol. II. of the
lUiiioin Herald, published at Kaskaskia (Illinois Territory)^
Thursday morniug, April 18, 1810. Presuming that its
publication continued without iuterraptiou up to the date
194
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
above named, the first issue was made September 6, 1814.
The Herald was a four column folio with wide columns,
printed by Mathew Duncan, "printer to the Territory and
publisher of the laws of the United States." The number
before us is mainly taken up with the publication of the laws
of the Terriiory. Its columns show little if any local news,
and not much of a general character. This is accounted for
by the editor who laments the " barreness of this day's paper
on account of the non-arrival of the eastern mail." He also
proposes to "enlarge his paper and print it with small type,
and devote all of his time to its trianagement," and an-
nounces his determination to continue his residence in Kas-
kaskia We copy some of the " Notices" and advertise-
ments; of the latter there were few. Daniel P. Cook Audi-
tor of Public Accounts for Illinois Territory publicly gives
not ce, "That all nonresident claimants to land in Illinois
Territory are required to enter all such land for taxation
with the Auditor of Public Accounts on or before the 1st
day of August next." In the issue of the Htrald of the
same date Josiah McClanahan advertises his runaway negro
slave, Brookens Cole, offtring a reward of S'25 for his cap-
ture and return and gives a personal description of him.
In the issue of February 1st, 1815, the editor says: "The
want of paper of a pr.iper size compels the publication of
the //• raid of this, and probably for some succeeding weeks,
on a half-fheet of super royal paper. The editor has gone
to Kentucky to obtain a supply. We have had no eastern
mail for two weeks past further than Shawneetown, conse-
quently the readers of this paper have lost nothing by its
late failure."
Notici Daniel P. Cook informs the public that the Au-
ditor's office (having been assigned to him) will be kept at
the house of X. P(ipe, E.^^q., where all calls on him in the
line of his profession as (\innsellor and Attorney at Law
will also be promptly attended to.
Kaskaski.v, January 13, ISIO. 18tf
Notic( 1 have for sale 22 slaves. Among them are
several of buth sexes between the years of 10 and 17 years.
If not shortly sold I shall wish to hire them in Missouri
Territory. I have also for sale a full blooded stud horse, a
very large English Bull and several young ones.
October 1st, 181."). Ninian Edwards.
The above may read strangely to the present inhabitants
of Illinois.
The following is a card from the old " Ranger" Gover-
nor of Illinois. True to his instincts he never missed an op-
portunity to make himself popular with the dear people.
To the poor people of Illinois and Missouri Territory.
To the above class of mankind whose pecuniary circum-
stances will not admit of feeing a lawyer. I ten<ler ray pro-
fessional services as a lawyer in all courts I may practice
in without fee or reward.
Kaskaskia, Dec. 10th, 181.5. John Reynolds
Mathew Duncan, the founder of the Illinois Hirild, was a
native of Paris, Bourbon county, Kentucky, and a brother
of Joseph Duncan who succeeded Reynolds as Governor of
the State. He sold the paper to Daniel P. Cook and
Robert Blackwell. The date of transfer was August 25th,
1817. They changed the name to
The Illinois Intellir/encer. After the State was admitted
to the union, Mr. Cook was elected to congress. A short
time prior to this event he sold his interest to Elijah C.
Berry. The firm was then B'ackwell & Berry. Mr. Cook
was elected for several terms to congress, and served with
great distinction in that body. He held the chairmanship
of the ways and means committee, and no doubt his death
was hastened by his laborious duties as its chairman. He
died in 1827, universally lamented. It is generally con-
ceded that he was a-t able a man as ever represented Illinois
in the halls of congress.
The hitelligencer was in form, a four column folio, neatly
printed in small type. The " Adds" were set the first time,
in heavy black letter. From No. 39 of vol. 3, printed at
Kaskas'kia Wednesday, May 26, 1819, we notice the follow-
ing cards of lawyers, some of whom subsequently became
prominent in the history of the State. Nathaniel Pope, H.
Starr and D. Blackwell, Henry S. Dodge and Richard M.
Young attorneys at law. The latter had removed from
Kentucky to Jonesborough, Union county, Illinois, and
practiced in the courts of Illinois and Missouri Territories.
Notice. — Being authorized for that purpose it hereby re-
quests the attendance of the commissioners appointed by the
legislature for selecting a site whereon to fix the seat of gov-
ernment of this State, agreeable to the law of the United
States and of this State at the house of Revis, on the
Kaskaskia river, on the first Monday in the month of June
next.
May 19, 1819. Wii.mam Alexander,
One of the Commissioners.
The commissioners met agreeably to appointment and se
lected a site and named it Vandalia, to which point the
State Government was removed the next year.
In the same issue John Edgar gave notice "that he had
sold all his claims to the land whereon is situated Harrison-
ville, the county seat of Mimroe county, to Messrs. McKnight
& Brady and know of no other claims to said land," also
notice to the Brethren of Western Star Lodge No. 107,
A. F. & A. M. will celebrate St. John's day in the town of
Kaskaskia, June 24th, 1819. By order of John Betts, Sec.
The Intelligencer was published in Kaskaskia un'il
the following year (1820) when the state Capital was re-
moved to Vandalia. It being a part, so t > speak, of the state
government it was also removed to the latter place. Elijah
C. Berry became the sole publisher, and afterward was
elected Auditor of Public Accounts.
The Republican Adivente was established in Kaskaskia
in 1823, by Elias Kent Kane. He continued its imblieation
for a short time or until the date ot his election to the
United States Senate, th^n the office was leased to other
parties and suspended publication in 1825. Mr. Kane was
a native of New York and settled in Kaskaskia in 1814,
four years before the organization of the state government.
In 1818 he was appointed by Gov. Bond secretary of state,
and continued in that < ffire until 1824, when he was elected
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
195
to represent Illiuoij in the Senate of the United States. He
proved himself an industrious and able member of that body,
and served out his full time with so much satisfaction to his
constituents that he was re elected without serious opposition
in 1830. Before the expiration of his second term his
health, which had always been feeble, gave way and he died
in Washington, December lltli, IS;!."). Few men of his daj's
enjoyed a higher degree of popularity. He was esteemed
by all who knew him, and even the few enemies he had ad-
mitted the purity of h'n character aud the honesty ol his in-
tentions.
The Adoocate office passed into the bauds of Robert K.
Fleming, who revived the publication of the paper and
named it the Kuskofikia Recorder. It was established May
5th, 182.^, by Mr. P^leming, who soon removed the office to
Vandalia.and in l'S27 went to Edwardsville and established
the IUinoi.-< Corrector. Two years later he returned to Ka.s-
kaskia aud published the Recorder, and remained there until
the summer of 1 «.>:>, then went to Belleville and remained
there until his death. At the time of his death in 1<'S74 he
was the oldest living printer and publi-her in the state.
Col. Menard owned a printing office in IM.'iO. It was his
custom to leave it or allow any parties the use of it who
would publish a paper in the town of Kaskaskia. In 1840
the office was opened by James Fitzsimmons, a young man
who came to Ka.skaskia in the employ of a party of bridge
builders in the capacity of book and timekeeper. Having
some journalistic aspirations he got permission from Me-
nard to open the office, and issued therefrom the Kaakdnkia
Republican.
He was succeeded by Wm. E Jones, who continued pub-
lisher until after the high water of l'S44, when the office was
clo.sed for a short time. The publication was revived in
1841) by Parsons Percy and a Mr. Wallace. Mr. Percy
was a Scotchman by birth and an old printer, and well known
throughout southern Illinois. He was a character in his
way, and posessed of more than average ability but un-
fortunately was addicted to gross intemperance. It was his
custom as soon as the paper was printed to go to the grog
shop and get drunk aud continue in that state for several
days, only returning to the office in time to set up and get
out the next week's issue. It is related of him that on one
occassion the drunk continued until the day of publication.
Sobering up he realized that something had to be done. It
was too late to set up the paper. The last week's forms
were still on the press. In this dilemma he sat down and
wrote, "At the urgent request of a large number of our
subscribers we republish last week's edition." The paper
was worked off and distributed. It is not related whether
his subscribers discovered the trick or not, at least it gave
him extra time to indulge in his favorite recreation of getting
gloriously drunk. He afterwards published a paper in
Sparta, then in Staunton, Macoupin count}', after which he
went to Chester and there died.
During the time that Parsons Percy was publisher of the
paper, Peter W. Baker became associated with him and sub-
sequently became publisher, and continued the paper until
1849 when the office of the Republican was sold by the
Menards to B. J. F. Hanna, and by him removed to Chester,
which had then iiecome the county scat of Randolph county.
The first paper established outside of Kaskaskia in Ran-
dolph county was
The Columhu.': Herald. — It was established at Sparta,
and its founder was James Morrow, a practical printer
and native of Ohio. He came west to Illinois in the
early spring of 18:59. He brought a printing office with
him. The first issue of the Herald was made May Ist, 1839.
It took its name from the town Columbia which by an act
of the legislature of 1840—41 was changed to Sparta. It
was the first newspaper printed in the town, and it may be
said that with the exception of a few years, Sparta has not
been without a newspaper from that date to the present.
In form it was a .l col. folio, neatly printed and had a fair
advertising patronage. It was independent in politics. In
the Prospectus the Editor said "In the language of Thomas
Jefferson, we are all Rt publicans. So we would now say.
We are all whigs, we are all Democrats." On the 10th of
January, 1840, in consequence of the name of the town being
changed the paper was named
The Sparta Herald. — With the completion of the first
volume the paper passed into the possession of Mr. John E.
Deitrich, who converted it into a political paper and made
it the organ of the Democratic party in the county. On the
8th of May, 1840, he changed the name from the Sparta
Herald to
Tlie Sparta Democrat. — In the exciting campaign of 1840
i.lie Democrat advocated the claims of Martin Van Burea
for the presidency. Mr. Deitrich continued the publication
unti 184;), when it suspended. In 1.S44 the office waj
leased to 0. F. McMillan, who on the •JSili of May, 1844,
commenced the publication of the
Randolph Couiitij Record. — It was a four-column folio,
wide columns. It su))ported James K. Polk for the presi-
dency. It was continued by Mr. McMillan until June,
1846, when trouble arose in the Democratic camp. In the
convention a.ssembled for the purpose of nominating candi-
dates for Congress, Robert Smith, the member from the
district, was defeated by Lyman Trumbull. The friends of
Smith claimed that Trumbull had secured the nomination
by unfair means, and Smith therefore proposed to run inde-
pendent. All the papers in the district stood by the nominee
of the convention. Smith had no organ to represent him.
McMillan was a friend of Smith's. He proposed to have
the Record su))port Smith. This Mr. Dietrich, to whom the
office belonged, would not permit to be done. McMillan
wrote Smith the facts. He at once purchased press and
type, shipped it to Chester and placed McMillan in charge.
He set up the office and issued the Record. Six mouths
later he changed the name to
The Chester Reveille, the first number of which was printed
February 20, 1847. It was in form a four-column folio,
afterwards enlarged. Smith was elected by a large ma-
jority. He continued McMillan in the office until 1850,
when he sold it to Messrs. Hanna & Whitehurst, pub-
lishers of the Randolph County Herald. Their office had
been destroyed by fire a few months before.
196
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Mr. McMillan is a practical printer ; he learned his trade
io Ceutreville. In 1842 he came to Kaskaskia and worked
at the case in the office of the Republican; aflerwanU went
to Sparta, then to Chester, where he yet resides. He was a
strong advocate of the Homestead Exemption law=, and
contributed not a little to their passage His paper bore
the name of the Chcder Reixille and Homcdi'ad A-hw.ate.
As will be seen by the above, he is among the veteran and
pioneer printers and publishers of the state.
The first newspaper published in Chester county was
called
The Southern Illinois Advocate. — It was founded by John
Smith and M. H. Abbott. The first number was issued
May 14th, 1839. In form it was a five-column folio, and
claimed to be independent in politics. Its publication was
continued until 1840, when it suspended.
After the flood of 1844, the town of Kaskaskia retro-
graded. As before stated, a feeble effort was made to
keep up a newspaper after that date, but it was a failure.
In 1849 the Menards, the owners of the material of the
Republican office, sold it to Mr. B. J F. Hanua. He re-
moved it to Chester and there commenced the publication
of the
Chester Herald.— The first number was issued March 15,
1849. Soon after the publication was commenced Mr.
Whitehurst was taken into partnership, and the firm of
Hanna & Whitehurst continued until 185;>, when the
latter retired and was succeeded by William Philips. They
continued the Herald until 18.'i(), when Phillips withdrew
and went to Kansas, where he laid out the town of Salina,
and subsequently accumulated a fortune. He was a Scotch-
man by birth, and a man of more than ordinary force of
character. He possessed no education, but was gifted with
a strong natural mind. He arose to distinction and repre-
sented his district in congress. He was succeeded in the
Herald by E. J. Montague, and with him the paper ceased
publication. Mr. Montague, in 1860, went to Belleville, in
St. Clair county, and took charge of the Advocate. At pre-
sent he is a resident of Missouri.
After Mr. McMillan removed from Sparta to Chester in
1846, there was no paper published in the former place
until 1848; when John R. Shannon started a campaign
paper called
The Prairie Democrat. — It advocated the election of Lewis
Cass. About the same time a paper called the
Sparta Freeman was issued by James Coleman. It repre-
sented the views of the anti-slavery party, and supported
James G. Birney for the presidency. In 18.30 James S.
Coulter succeeded Coleman, who died, and continued the
paper for several years. He changed the name to
The Sparta Journal— He retired in 1852 and went to
Belleville, and there edited the Advocate. He was a Protest-
ant Irishman, and one of those irrepressible characters so
often found among the natives of the Emerald Isle. He
wielded a sharp vigorous pen, and was indiscriminate in the
use of it, and sometimes would puncture a friend as well
afl a foe.
After Mr. Coulter retired from the Journal Mrs. Gintileus
took charge, and a short time after the paper suspended.
John R. Shannon conducted the Democrat until 1851,
when the office was leased to C. P. Jjhnsoa, late Lieutenant-
Governor of Missouri. He named the paper The Inde-
pendent, and continued it until after the campaign in 1852,
when it suspended. It was revived by S. A. Armour who
published the pip^r f)r a sh >rt \\m\ then leased to Parsons
Percy wh) continue 1 it f)r twj years, after which J. W.
Fletcher succeeddd to the management and soon after the
office was removed to Chester. lu 1862 the Ilotrock
Brothers published a paper in Sparta called the •.
They continued the publication through the war, after which
they leased the office to W. J. Armour, who changed the
name to the Star of the West. It was sold to Gen. J. Black-
burn J.nes in November 1866. It had then but 130 sub-
scribers. Mr. Jones then purchased new type and changed
the name of the paper to the Randolph Plaindealer. It rap-
idly grew in circulation under the management of Gen
Jones. It was the first paper in Illinois that hoisted the
name of U. S Grant for president.
An incident is related about "Bill" Armour, as he
was familiarly called. Shortly after he went out of the
office, and Jones took possession, he came back and claimed
the rolling stone as his property. Upon investigation it was
found to be the tombstone of his departed uncle which had
been shipped to him to be set up at the head of the grave
in the cemetery ; being just the sort of a rolling stone he
wanted, he utilized it. We are not informed whether it did
or did not do duty as a tombstone after it had served his
purpose.
Gen. Jones continued the publication of the Plaindealer
until August 1868, when he sold to T. M. Nichol who con-
tinued the publication until the following April, then J. D.
Watson purchased an interest with Nichol. The firm of
Nichol & Watson continued until December 1870, when
the paper was sold to Messrs. Kimball & Taylor of Belle-
ville. They placed Edward Fagin in charge as editor and
manager. He was succeeded by Fred. L. AUes, April 27,
1872. In April 1873 an eflfort was made by some parties in
Sparta to purchase the Plaindealer, and while they had the
matter under consideration Mr. AUes purchased it of F. M.
Taylor of Belleville, and on the same date sold it to S. L.
Taylor of Sparta. The date olsale was May 19, 1873. On
the 21st of June following Albert Goddard became associ-
ated with Mr. Taylor in the management He retired Feb-
ruary 17, 1874, and was succeeded by W. B Taylor, brother
of S. L. Taylor. The Taylor Brothers continued to publish
the Plaindealer until May 10, 1881, when they sold it to
Messrs. George Campbell and Don. E. Deitrich. Charles
Campbell purchased Deitrich's interest September 1st, 1881,
since which time it has been conducted by the Campbell
Brothers. They are both young men of energy and ability,
and have succeeded in making the Plaindealer a necessity to
the people of Sparta and surrounding country.
The Weekly Randolph County Democrat was founded by
Judge J. M. Ralls. The first number was issued JIarch 10,
1857. The office was brought from Sparta and managed by
J. W. Fletcher, who was a practical printer. He subse-
quently founded the Sentinel at Centralia, which is still in
existence.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
197
The Democrat was a 6 column folio, and its name indi-
cated its politics. Judge Rails continued proprietor until
April 1, 1858, when he sold out to H. B. Nisbet and C. C
(Jleraeus. They continued the Dcmorral as ati independent
paper. At the close of the third volume, or on April 1st,
l><(iO, Mr. Nisbet purchased Clemens' interest and conducted
the paper until June 186-5. Wheu he got control he
made it a republican paper. It gave an unqualified and
hearty support to the union cause and all measures for the
suppression of the rebellion. John W. Dean and M. W.
Rotrock purchased the Democrat. The firm of Dean &
Rotrock continued editors and publishers until 1876,
when Rotrock sold his interest back to Jlr. Nisbet. The
firm name was then Dean & Co. Dean during this time
had charge of the management of the paper. He let it run
down, so that it became of little value. It was sold to the
Clarion Company.
The next candidate for journalistic favors in Chester was
the
E<i]iptian Picket Guard. — John R. Shannon and Robert
McHenry were the founders. The first number was issued.
May 22nd, 1862. Mr. P. W. Baker, a veteran printer and
publisher in southern Illinois, had much to do in organizing
the Company, and placing the Picket Guard upon its feet.
He was the compositor in the office and set up the paper,
and also had an interest in the business. In fact it was
owing to his energy and industry that the paper was started.
In the spring of 1SG3 Mr. McIIenry, whose health had failed,
withdrew from the paper and went to California. Mr.
Shannon then became sole Editor and publisher. ThcPickrt
Guard at once became extremely partisan in its tone and
gave offense to the union sentiment in the county. In the
summer of L'^G:! it suspended publication for two months.
In the meantime a Company composed of the leading Demo-
crats of the county was formed and the paper became the
property of the democratic party of Randolph county. S.
St. Vrain was appointed as its special agent, treasurer and
general manager. P. W. Baker took charge as publisher,
and managed the business department inside the office. John
R. Shannon was continued as Editor. He was extremely
partisan in his views, and criticised the measures adopted for
the suppression of the rebellion in such a caustic term that
he provoked the anger of a company of soldiers who in July
18ti4 broke into the office, took out the type and scattered it
along the streets. The office was refitteil with type and the
publication resumed. Soon after that event John McBride,
a prominent local politician, became i)roprietor of the Picket
Guard He retained Shannon as Editor. In 186.") JIcBride
retired from the management and was succeeded by William
H. Toy, who published the paper until the fall of 1867,
when McHenry, one of the original proprietors, returned
from California and assumed control He changed the
name to
The Valley Clarion, and continued Editor and publisher
until June 1868, when he died. Robert E Dcitrich con-
ducted the paper until the close of the year, when he was
succeeded by William J. Armour who held control until
Nov. 9th, 1869 ; then Charles L. Spencer purchased the
Clarion and continued editor and publisher until December
8ih, 1875. During Spencer's management the Clarion be-
came the leading and most potential; Democratic newspaper
in the District. He was not only an 'able editor but was in
addition a most exeellentnewppaper manager. Few country
newspapers in Illinois f'rtt^'ed so profitable as the Clarion
under Mr. Spencer's management. On the last date above
named Mr. Spencer sold the Clarion to John H. Lindsey &
Co. The Company was composed of Beverly Weltshire,
who was then sherifl^, and John S. McBride, County Clerk.
Mr. Lindsey was at that time County Judge. In the spring
of 1876 the publishing firm was changed to the
Valley Clarion Printinr/ Company. — On the 1st of May,
1876, John H. Lindsey .sold out to Charles L. Spencer and
John S. McIJride. They remained proprietors with Mr.
Spencer as Editor until February 11th, 1^78, when John
H. Lindsey purchased the interests of the Valley Clarion
Printing Cimpany and became again the publisher. He
associated with him Robert E. Deitrich in the editorial de-
partment. This arrangement continued until October 1st,
1880, when he sold out to Wm. M. Holmes, the present
Editor and publisher.
The V'dley Clarion is the organ of the Demociatic party
in Randolph county. It is tyi)ographically neat and well
edited, and its superior management reflects credit upon its
owner.
The Frei Blaetter was the name of a German paper published
in Chester. The first issue was made August 11th, 1880. It
was brought to Chester from St. Genevieve, Mo. Franz
Klein and Alonzo Humphreys were the Editors. It was
sold out February 18th, 1881, under a foreclosure and pur-
chased by William M. Holmes of the Clarion. It started
as an Independent paper but developed into a Republican
journal before its demise.
The Che.'iter Tribune was founded October 30th, 1872, by
William Knapp and C. B. Wassell. At that time there
was no Republican paper published in Chester, and it was
started with a view to supply the party with an organ. The
firm of Knapp & Wassell continued until February 21st,
1874, when it was dissolved, Wassell retiring, and Mr.
Knapp continued sole owner until March 1st, 1881, when
he sold to James B. Matlack and James F. Wassell, who
have continued the publication to the present.
It was originally a 6 col. folio. Mr. Knapp enlarged it
to a 5 col. quarto. The present proprietors changed it back
to a folio form, 7 col.
The Tribune has been an exponent of Republican prin-
ciples since its first establishment. The proprietors are both
practical printers and have had considerable experience in
the printing business both at the case and in the sanctum,
therefore the Tribune under their management has grown to
be one of the representative organs of the party in southern
Illiuois, and is in a healthy financial condition and a source
of revenue to its owners.
The Greenback Gazette was the name of a campaign paper
printed at the Tribune office. It was edited by R. P.
Thompson and A. G. Gordon. It made its appearance in
the presidential campaign of 1876, and advocated the claims
198
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
of Peter Cooper for the presidency. That there might be
no mistake as to its political color, it was printed on green
paper. It suspended at the close of the campaign
Eightecn-Eujhty was the name of a paper published by-
Mr. Knapp, in connection with the Tribune. It was issued
on Saturdays.
The first paper published in the enterprising town of Red
End was called
The Egyptian. — The press and material was purchased in
Belleville by John and William Brickey. The first issue
was made , 18(i8. Peter \V. Baker had charge of
it for the proprietors. At the same time a German paper
was published in Red Bud by the same parlies, over which
Anton Helmich presided as editor. Both papers supported
Seymour and Blair for the prefc.de icy. They soon sus-
pended.
In 1872 Albert L. Krepps started a paper in Red Bud,
called
The Courier. — It continued three months, then ceased
publication. No paper was published in the town after that
date until August 19, 187(i, when the
Red Bud Courier made its appearance. It was edited by
De Journette & Brewer. It was Democratic in tone. It
suspended after the sixteenth number.
The next venture was the
Courier, Everett H. Eliff editor and publisher. The
office was brought to Red Bud from Lebanon. The first
number was issued April 20 1877. It also was Democratic
in tone. Mr. Eliff continued the publication until Septem-
ber 19, 1879, when the office was leased to H C. Hinckley,
for the term of one year. In February, 1880, Mr. Eliff
purchased the lease from Mr. Hinckley and removed the
press and material to Columbia, in Monroe county. On the
date of the surrender of the lease Mr. Hinckley bought the
Review office and continued the publication of the Courier
until August, 1882, when he sold the paper and office to
Miss T. A. McDouough, her brother, T. J. McDonough,
taking editorial charge. The paper is the exponent of
Democratic principles, and in political campaigns the
Courier is a factor of more than ordinary importance.
The Review was established in Red Bud July 19, 1879,
by William H. Toy. He published the paper for a few
months, then closed up the office and soon after sold to Mr.
Hinckley as above stated.
Coulte-rviUe Chronicle was published in the village of
Coulterville. The first issue was made in the latter part of
August, 1879. John A. Wall was the proprietor. The
office was brought from Pinckneyville. Mr. Wall published
the Chronicle for one year, then it passed into the hands of
Messrs. McFie & Childs. They changed the name to
Coulterville Headlight. McFie's interest was purchased
by his partner, who continues to edit and publish the paper.
The Item was an amateur paper, published monthly and
printed in the office of the Sparta Plaindealer. It was edited
by E. C. Minner. The first number was issued August 15,
1878, and the last, August 12, 1879.
Our Work was the name of a religious journal, published
in Sparta. It was edited by Rev. Thomas E. Green. It was
published under the auspices of the First Presbyterian
Church of Sparta.
MONROE COUNTY.
The first newspaper published in Monroe county was
established in Waterloo, and founded by Elam Rust. It was
called
The Independent Democrat. The first number was printed
in the spring of 1843. In 18-15 the name was changed to
the
War Eagle. It was then Democratic, and supported the
administration of James K. Polk and the war measures in-
augurated for the conquest of Mexico. It suspended soon
afterward. Rust went to Belleville and edited a paper
there, after which he drifted north to Central Illinois. In
1856 he published the Democrat in Decatur, Illinois, and
died there in 1857.
The War Eagle vias succeeded by the
Patriot, which was established by Mr. Abbott February
19th, 1852. Its publication was continued until 1856,
when it was sold to H. C. Talbott, and consolidated with the
Monroe Advertiser, which had been established in Waterloo
by ]\Ir. Talbott March 1st, 1851. It continued until the
purchase of the Waterloo Patriot, then the Advertiser dropped
and the Patriot continued. Mr. Talbott continued the pub-
lication until 1857 when it suspended. The office was
opened in 1858, and J. C. Goethe published the paper for a
short time. It was subsequently bought by George Abbott
and sliipped to Alton.
After the Patriot went down the Democratic party of
Monroe county were without an organ. For the purpose of
supplying that want a joint stock company was formed,
composed of the leading representative men of the party.
The principals were Hon. W. H. Morrison, Hon. J. L. D.
Morrison, Charles Frick, Hon. William Erd, John Morri-
son and James Seunott. The latter was chosen editor. The
material and presses were bought, and on the first of August,
1858, the first number of
The Wattrloo Advocate was issued. It advocated the elec-
tion of Stephen A. Douglas for the Presidency. Mr. Sen-
nott was succeeded by James A. Kennedy in the editorship
and management, and he in turn by Mr. Weedin, a news-
paper publisher of Belleville, Illinois. In 1861 J. C.
Goethe had charge for a short time. On the first of April,
1862, Mr. J. F. Gotshall succeeded to the management. He
continued in charge as editor and manager for the company
until 1875, when he purchased the stock of the company,
and he became sole owner. Mr. Gotshall is a native of
Pennsylvania. At an early age he emigrated to Ohio and
learned the printer's trade in the office of the Stark County
Democrat at Canton. He came to St. Louis and worked at
the case in the Republican office, and from there came to
Waterloo.
The Monroe Democrat. — No. 1 of vol. 1 was issued July
10, 1868. It was a German paper edited and published by
Julius Von Reicbenstein. Seven numbers were issued
when it suspended.
The Waterloo Times was established in October, 1872, by
HISTORY OF IiA.\DOLPR, M OX ROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
199
R F. Brown At the close of volume one it was purchased
by A. G. Ferguson and C. F. Vangorder. lu July, 1874,
Ferguson sold his interest in the paper to R. T. Mclvill.
The firm of Melvill A Vangorder continued until June 26,
1885, when Melvill retired and Vangorder became sole pro-
prietor. He continued the publication until in December,
187ti, when he failed. The office passed into possession of
the Kellogg Newspaper Comj)any, of St. Louis. They
placed a man ia charge, and continued the publication for a
short time, then sold the paper to a joint stock company, of
which William Bodie is President, Henry Talbott Secretary,
and C. A. M. Schlierholz Treasurer. Mr. Vangorder was
appointed editor and manager. He was succeeded by Peter
W. Baker, who held control for three years, then Henry
Talbott took charge for a short time. On the 9th of Decem-
ber, 1880, George E. Jahn, the present editor and manager
assumed control of the paper. Mr. Jahn is a practical
printer and editor of more than ordinary ability. He has
brought the Times up to a paying basis as well as making it
an influential organ of the party in the Congressional Dis
trict.
On the •'3th of July, 1881, Mr Jahn commenced the issue
of a German paper called the
Monroe Freie I'resse. It is a "-column folio and printed
in the Time» office. It is the organ of the German Demo-
crats of Monroe county.
The Munroe Demokrat was the name of a German paper
published in Waterloo in 18)6. It was edited by William
Keelmann. It was the property of a stock company and
was managed by Henry C. Talbott.
The first paper [irinted in the town of Columbia was the
Columbia Giizau. It was started by Everett H. Eliff. The
issue was made in February, 1880. The office was brought
to the town from Red Bud. Five numbers were issued when
the paper suspended. The office remained closed until May
5th following, when it was purchased by Peter W. Baker,
and from it was issued the I'oice of Monroe. The Qazetle
wai published as a Democratic paper, but the latter advo-
cated Republican principles. Owing to the ill health of Mr.
Baker tt)e paper suspended publication from Nov. 4th, 188(J,
to May 6th, 1881, when the publication was resumed and con-
tinued until the close of 1882. ]Mr. Baker is a native of
Canada. He learned the printer's trade in Cleveland Ohio,
and came to Kaskaskia in 1840, and since that time has been
connected with the journalism of southern Illinois. His
long experience in the sanctum and at the case makes him
one of the best posted men in the state on the politics of the
past forty years. He is a ready writer, and his articles pos-
sess considerable literary merit.
PERRY COUNTY.
The first newspaper established in Perry County was
called the Perry County Times. It was published at Pinck-
neyville and the first issue made October 1st, 1856. Wil-
liam JIcEwing was the editor and publisher. In form it
was a 5 col. folio.
The second paper was established at Du Quoin, and was
named The Du Quoin Mining Journal. It was founded by
Paul Watkins, a practical printer who was well known to
the early journalists of the State. The first number was is-
sued Aug. 21st, 1858. In form it was a 4 col. folio, subse-
quently enlarged to a 7 col. same form. It was Republican
in politics, and devoted to the interests of Du (Juoin and vi-
cinity. Mr. Watkins continued editor and publisher until
his death, after which the office passed into the hands of
Alonzo Bennett He changed its politics and converted it
into an ultra Democratic paper. He was severe in his criti-
cisms of measures instituted for the suppression of the rebel-
lion. His extreme views led to a rupture between him and
a company of soldiers. They broke into the office and
pitched the type into the street. Mr. Bennett refurnished
the office, but soon after the paper suspended publication.
The SUii-snnd Stripes was established in Du Quoin, March
24th, 1864, J. D. Mondy editor and publisher. The press
and type were purchased by the citizens, who contributed
different sums. In the prospectus it was announced by the
editor that the " Stars and Stripes was to be an unconditional
Union paper — to be for the Union, — whole Union,— without
anj' ifs, or ands, or buts — believing as we do, that there can
be but two parlies in this conflict. A man must be either
for his country or against it. He must be either a patriot
or a traitor. A man can not serve two masters. He must
love his country and despise its enemies."
Mr. Mondy continued editor and publisher for a few
weeks only. On the 26th of April, 1861, Mr. Geo. O. Ash
and A. B. Bennett formed a partnership and took charge of
the Stars and Stripes. They held control until December
30 of the same year, when they were succeeded by W. A.
Ballard & Co — J. E. Boweu «as the " Co." This arrange,
ment continued eight months, when Mr. Bowen retired. The
name of the paper was changed by Mr. Ballard to the J>u
Quoin Recorder. The first issue of the paper under the new
name was March ;>d, 1865. Ballard conducted the paper
until 1867, when Charles H. Hays became associated with
him. This arrangement continued until November 7, 1867,
then Ballard .sold the Recorder to R. Berry, and the latter
formed a partnership with A. J. Alden, the editor and pro-
prietor of the Tribune, and the two papers were consolidated
under the name of the Tribune and Recorder.
When Mr. Bowen retired from the firm of W. A. Ballard
& Co., ])ublishers of the Stars and Stripes, he purchased an
office and commenced the publication of a Democratic paper
called the Du Quoin Progress. The first issue was made
October 14, 1865. It was a seven-column folio. He con-
tinued editor and proprietor until hia death in 1868 ; after
which it was published for a short time by his brother,
Frank Bowen. The office was afterwards sold and removed
to Pinckneyville.
The Du Quoin Tribune was established by A. J. Alden.
and the first number issued March 21st, 18()7. It was an
eight-column i'olio, Republican in politics. It was yet in its
first volume when it was consolidated with the Recorder.
The firm of Alden & Berry continued until November 9^
1870, when Alden's interest was purchased by J. T. Beem
200
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
and C. P. Richards, two practical printers and compositors
in the office. The firm of Berry, Beem & Richards con-
tinued until Feb. 10, 1874, at which time Mr. Berry retired,
from the firm, and the remaiuing partners have conduc ed ihe
paper to the pr esent.
'V\vi Tribune is the recognized organ of the Republican
party in the Twentieth Congressional District. It is neatly
printed and ably edited. The oflice is well supplied with all
tiie modern styles of type necessary to the successful opera-
tion of a country newspaper, and fitted up with power
presses, etc. Altogether, it is not excelled iu this respect by
any other oflice in Southern Illinois, outside of Cairo.
Mr. Beem is a native of Pittsburg, Penn. He came to
Alton, Ills., when young, and learned the printer's trade in
the oflice of the Alton Telegraph. In 1861 he was one of
the firm who re-established that paper. In 1862 he enlisted
in Co. " G," 97th regiment Ills. Vols., and served three year
in the army. At the close of the war he returned to Alton ^
and in 1868 came to Du Quoin, and, two years later, became
one of the proprietors and editors of the Tribune. C. P
Richards, the junior member of the firm, is a native of Wy-
oming county, New York, where he learned the trade of
printing. He came west in 1863, and worked in the print-
ing ofiices of Kalamazoo, Chicago, Champaign and Rock
Island. He came to Du Quoin in 1868, and iu 1870 became
a partner in the Tribune, and has continued as one of the
editors and publishers of the paper to the present.
The Du Quoin Republican. — The office of the above named
paper was bought in Pinckneyville, where it was known as
the Banner oflice, by Messrs. Kimball & Taylor of Belle-
ville, Illinois, and by them removed to Du Quoiu. The first
number was issued May 6, 1871. Fiank R. O'Neil was
placed in charge) as editor and manager. It was a nine
tolumn folio, re[)ublican in politics. The publication was
continued until the third volume, when the Union News-
paper Company of Belleville, of which Messrs. Kimball &
Taylor were the proprietors, failed, and with them failed the
difl'ereut newspapers under their management in southern
Illinois.
The Perry County Banner, No. 1, of volume 1 was flung
to the journalistic breeze May 27, 1869. John A. Wall and
D. B. Van Syckel were the tditors and proprietors. When
first issued, it was, in form a six column folio, subsequently
it was enlarged to an eight column same form. On the 1st
of May, 1870, Mr. Van Sickel's interest was purchased by E.
H. Lemeu, Esq. He took charge of the editorial columns,
and soon gave the Bioiner a political standing among its
contemporaries. It started as an independent paper, but
Mr. Lemen made it the exponent of republican principles.
The increasing business in his profession compelled
his retirement from the editorial chair, the date of
which was February 10, 1871. W. K. Murphy and John
Boyd succeeded him as political editors, and of course they
gave it a different political cast. The paper was soon after
sold to Messrs. Kimball & Taylor as stated above and re-
moved to Du Quoin.
In 1870 the citizens of Tamaroa concluded that a news-
paper was necessary in order to speak for the town, and in-
form the outside world the advantages it possessed over
many places in Illinois. The citizens with commendable
liberality subscribed a sum sufficient to purchase a press and
the necessary outfit of type. They selected L. E. Knapp-
and H. W. Adams to take charge of it as editors and pub-
lishers. The first number was printed December 20th, 1870,
and bore the name of the
Perry County Watchman. — The publication continued un-
der the same management until 1872, then D. C. Barber
who had obtained control of the stock, leased the office to
H. F. Montressor. He changed the name to
The Enterprise — His admiuistration was short and not
over brilliant. The material was then leased to E. W.
Koonce who changed the name to
The Star. — The Star shone with a lack-lustre brilliancy
for a short time, when its light went out and in its place
came
The Item, under the editorial control of F. A. Allison ;
after him came the Curlee Bro'. who run it for a short
time, then Mr. Barber sold it to parties in Murphreysboro,
Jackson county, Illinois, since which time there has been no
paper published in Tamaroa.
The News was the name of a paper published iu Du Quoin
by Thos. K. Wi loughby. It was independent in politics.
After the close of the first volume it was removed to Pinck-
nezville, and from the office was issued
The Independent, a democratic paper, the first Issue of
which was made January 16th, 1875. John A. Wall was
the editor and proprietor. He ran it successfully until
November 1878, when a mortgage held against the oflice
was foreclosed and it passed into the posession of E. C. H.
Willoughby. He changed the name to the
PinchieyviUe Democrat. — It passed from Mr. Willoughby
to J. J. Sargeant and T. K. Will ughby. It was originally
a seven column folio. The last named publisher changed it
to a five column quarto. Sargeant bought out Willoughby s
interest in 1880, ami published the Democrat until October
28, 1881, when publication was suspended. The office was
then purchased by W. A. Penny, and the next issue ra^ide
November 25, 1881. On the same date J. J. Penny, a
brother of W. A. Penny, became a partner, and took
charge of the editorial columns. The Democrat in the hands
of Mr. Penny has become healthy and prosperous, aud bids
fair under his management to live a long life of usefulness.
John A. Wall and L D. Murphy purchased a press and
material and on the 16th of November 1878 issued at Pinck-
neyville the first number of the Perry County Signal. It
was an independent Republican paper. In April 1879 Mr.
Wall withdrew from the Signal and took charge of the Belle
ville Advocate, afterward established the Chronicle at Coul-
terville then moved it to Benton, run it one year, then sold
out, and at present is engaged at farming near Mt. Vernon,
Illinois. Mr. Wall learned the printer's trade in Mt. Ver-
non, and has been connected with many papers in the difl^er-
ent counties of Jefferson, Marion, Perry, Randolph, St. Clair
Williamson and Franklin. His papers were always popu-
lar with the masses.
The Press was first issued at Tamaroa May 9th, 1879, by
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
201
theCurlce Bros, and there continued until Sept. 15th, 1881,
when it was moved to Du (^uoin, and from liie office ha?
since been iss-ued the Du (/iiaiii Prciig. Mr. M. B. Lawrence
became as-focialul with the busine.-^.s bfter its removal to tiie
latter phtce. In furm the paper i.-^ si.\ col. folio, indejiendent
iu politics.
This in brief is the history of the journalism of Randolph,
Monroe and Terry countiis. For facts and dates relating to
its history we are under many obligations to the members of
the press throughout the counties. They have aided us in
every way possible, and have kindly placed at our dispo.sal
files of their papers from which we have gleaned much valu-
able infornialion. We also desire to extend our thanks to
Kdmund Menard, H. G. Jone.s Robt. tt. Deitrick, Hon.
John II. himlsay, Judge Murphy and 8. L. Taylor, of Ran-
dolph county; Hon. William End ami J. \V. Drury of Mon-
roe county and G. M. Hinckley, W. H. Adams and Hon.
E. H. Lcmen of Perry county, and the county officials of
those counties for favors shown and information given which
has enabled us to trace the history of the press from its fir.-t
establishment iu Kaskaskia iu 1814 down to the present time.
CHAPTER Xr.
PATRIOTISM.
\ HE French settlements on the frontier, at
the conclusion of the treaty of I'uris,
February 10th, 176.3, owed their alle-
giance to the kingdom of France. The
missionaries of the Catholic faith had
zealously labored nearly a century to
convert the aborigines to the Christian
fliith, and, armed with the olive branch
of peace, they planted the French stan-
dard above their rudely constructed forls. Actuated by
this zeal, their first thought was to their God, and the second
to their native country. By the above mentioned treaty,
their allegiance was transferred to the British crown in
terms as follows :
" In order to establish peace on solid and durable founda-
tions, and to remove forever all subjects of dispute with
regard to the limits of the British and French territories on
the continent of America, it is agreed that for the future the
confines between the dominions of his Britannic !Majestv and
those of his most excellent Christian Majesty in that i)art of
the world, shall be fixed irrevocably by a line drawn along
the middle of the river Mi.-<si.ssippi, from its source to the
river Iberville, and from thence by a line along the middle
of this river and the lakes Maurepas and Pontchartrain to
the sea ; and for this purpo.«e, the most Christian king cedes,
in full right, and guarantees to his British Majesty the river
and port of the Mobile, and everything which he possesses
ou the left side of the river Mississijjpi, with the exception
of the town of New Orleans and of the island on which it is
situated, which shall remain to France; it being well under-
stood that the navigation of the river Mississippi shall be
cipially free, as well to the subjects of Grtat Britain as to
those of France, in its whole breadth and length, from ita
source to the sea ; and, expres.sly, that part which is between
the said island of New Orleans and the right bank of that
river, as well as the passage both in and out of its mouth.
It is further stipulated that the vessels belonging to the
subjects of either nation shall not be stopped, visited or
subjected to the payment of any duty whatsoever."
So far as those were concerned who had gathered around
the inis-^ionary outposts of the frontier, this tran.«fer of do-
minion was merely upon paper; these hardy few were a law
unto them-selves. They cared little whether England or
France was supreme ou this side of the Atlantic. France
lost no hold ou their affections, nor did England secure their
confidence. English subjects who visited the old French
towns of Kaskaskia and ( 'ahokia, only had the effect of more
deeply instilling into their minds the aversion and dread of
the " Long Knives,"' as the Virginians were generally de-
nominated by the French settlers and Indians. Of this fact
Col. Clark took advantage when sent to this frontier under
the advices of the Virginia administration. As this conquest
was practically terminated at these French towns, a brief
review will not prove uninteresting iu this connection. A
characteristic of Col. Clark was never to betray fear in the
presence of the Indians. It was not his policy to bribe
them to do his bidding by loading them with trinkets, and
he never made advances when seeking for relations of peace.
When the Indian warriors had cast aside with contempt the
bloody wampum sent them by the British government, he
stoically answered them that he would reply the next day
and cautioned them against shaking hands with the Long
Knives, as peace was not yet established, saying it was time
enough to extend hands when hearts went with them. The
following day the Indians gathered to hear his answer,
which he made in the following language:
" Men and warriors, pay attention to my words. You
informed me yesterday that the Great Spirit had brought us
together, and that you ho[)ed that as He was good, it would
be for good. I have also the same hope, and expect that
each party will strictly adhere to whatever may be agreed
upon, whether it shall be peace or war, and henceforth
prove ourselves worthy the attention of the Great Spirit. I
am a man and a warrior, not a counsellor. I carry war in
my right hand and in my left peace. I am sent by the
great council of the Big Knife and their friends to take pos-
session of all the towns possessed by the English in this
country, and to watch the motions of the red people — to
bloody the paths of those who attempt to stop the course of
the river ; but to clear the roads for us to those that desire
to be in peace, that the women and children may walk in
them without meeting anything to sir ke their feet against.
I am ordered to call upon the Great Fire for warriors en(mgh
to darken the land, and that the red people may hear no
sound but of birds who live on blood. I know there is a
mist before your eyes ; I will dispel the clouds that you may
•20-i
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
clearly see the causes of the war between the Big Knife anil
the English ; then you may jud,e for yourselves which party
is in the right; and if you are warriors, as you profess your-
selves to be, prove it by adhering faithfully to the paity
which you siiall believe to be entitled to your friendsliij),
and not show yourselves to be sr|ijaws."
He ilien proceeded by vivid imagery to describe the cause
of the war, and added : " The English were driven from one
place to another until they got weak, and then they hired
you red people to fight for them. The Great Spirit got
angry at this, and caused your old Father, the French king,
and other great nations, to join the Big Knife and fight with
them against all their enemies. So the English have become
like the deer in the woods; and you may see that it is the
Grent Sjiirit that has caused your waters to be troubled, be-
cause you have fought for the people He was angry with.
If your women and children should now cry, you must blame
yourselves for it, and not the Big Knife. You can now
judge who is in the right. I have already told you who I
am ; here is a bloody belt, and a white one ; take which you
please. Behave like men, and don't let your being sur-
rounded by the Big Knife, cause you to take up the one belt
with your hands, while your hearts take up the other. If
you take the bloody path, you shall leave the town in
safety, and may go and join your friends, the English ; we
will then try who can longest keep our clothes stained with
blood. If, on the other hand, you should take the path of
peace, and be received as brothers to the Big Knife, with
their friends the French, should you then listen to bad birds
that may be flying through the land, you will no longer
de.serve to be counted men, but as creatures with two tongues,
that ought to be destroyed, without listening to anything
you might say. As I am convinced you never heard the
truth before, I do not wish you to answer before you have
taken time to counsel. We will, therefore, part tliis even-
ing, and when the Great Spirit shall bring us together again,
let us speak and think like men with one heart and one
tongue."
The eflect of this address was magical upon the sous of the
forest, and had the desired result as was intended by Col.
Clark. The manner with which he coupled the French and
Big Knives had much weight with the Indians, who had
long held the missionaries iu great respect and reverence.
From this time forth, a spirit of patriotism was awakened
in behalf of the cause of American Independence, that in-
creased and glowed during the entire revolutionary struggle.
To the good judgment, bravery and foresight of Col Clark,
is the valley of the Mississippi largely indebted for itsEnglish-
speaking pioneers, many of whom were of his immediate
command, they remaining after the disbandment of the army.
To this conquest, too, are the United States indebted for the
extension of their frontier boundaries and vast western pos-
sessions.
As considerable frontier history pertaining to tffie war of
the Revolution was made in and about Kaskaskia, we here
give a brief outline of the same as gathered from Reynolds'
Pioneer Jottings. Col. Clark on arriving with his forces at
the "Old Cherokee Fort," or Fort Massacre, below the
mouth of the Tennessee river, fell in with a party of hunters
from Kaskaskia, under the command of John Duff.
From these parties Clark learned that Lieutenant Governor
Rochblave, a Canadian Frenchman, commanded Fort Gage
at Kaskaskia and the country, and that the militia were
organized and well disciplined ; that spies were stationed at
various points to give information if the Virginians came
into the country. Before leaving Corn Island, Col. Clark
had obtained two important facts of information of which
he made good use. Ojc was that France had joined the
Americans in the war against England, and the other was
that the French in Illinois had ber-n led to believe by the
English that the ''Long Knives" (Virginians) were canni-
bals and worse than demons.
The distance from Fort Massacre to Kaskaskia was one
hundred and twenty miles, and composed of swamps and
wilderness. Col Clark with his command arrived within a
short distance of the village of Kaskaskia, on the evening of
the 4th of July, 1878. After dark he proceeded to a house
on the river — the old ferry building — three fourths of a
mile above the village. After taking possession of the pre-
mises he made the following disposition of his troops. Two
parties were to cross the river, and the remainder of his
forces was to remain on the east side, so as to capture the
town and take Fort Gage at the same time. Captain Helm
commanded the troops to cross the river and take the village,
while Clark in person commanded the other wing to capture
the Fort. About midnight everything was in readiness for
the movement of both expeditions; and there in the dark
on the banks of the Kaskaskia, Col. Clark delivered the
following address to his troops : " Soldiers — We are near the
enemy for which we have been struggling for years. We
are not fighting alone for liberty and independence, but for
the defence of our own frontiers from the tomahawk and
scalping knife of the Indians. We are defending the lives
of our women and children, although a long distance from,
them. These British garrisons furnish the Indians with
powder and lead to desolate the frontier and pay gold for
human scalps We must take, and destroy the garrisons.
The fort before tis is one of them, and it must be taken. We
cannot retreat. We have uo provisions, and we must con-
quer. This is the 4th of July ; we must act to honor it, and
let it not be said iu after limes, that Virginians were de-
feated on that memorable day. The fort and town, I repeat,
must be taken at all hazards."
After these remarks, the troops silently separated in the
darkness, two squads to cross the river and the other to at-
tack the fort. Those crossing the river, entered the village at
the two extremes of t'.e town, and so quiet and t-ilent was their
approach, that not one in the sleeping village knew of their
presence until the signal was given, when the air was rent
with terrific yells and wh',ops by the soldiery, leading the
just awakened citizens to believe that the whole nation of
" Long Knivis" had bukm kise upon them \\ilh one fell
swoop. Those among the American troops who could speak
French, proclaimed to the terrified inhabitants, that if they
remained quiet within their houses they would not be harmed,
but if they came out, or made any risistance, they would be
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
203
exterminated. In two hours after the town was first entered,
the inhahitants had surrendered all their guns and naeaus of
defense to the Virginians; the ruse thus proving a perfect
success.
We will now return to the little force left on the other
side of the river, uuder the command of Col. Clark. The
attempt to take Fort Gage, one of the strongest British
fortifications on the frontier, was a most ])erilous enterprise,
and in conception was almost equal to Wayne's storming
Stony Point, or Ethan Allan's capturing Ticonderoga.
Clark had no arti lery or means of assaulting the Fort, and
therefore rcsorte<l to stratagem The sagacious scout, Simon
Kenton, commanded a detachmeut to enter the fort, and
luckily came upon an American, a native of Pennsylvania,
who was familiar with the fort. The guards of the garrison
were asleep, and the liberty-loving Pennsylvanian conducted
Kenton and his little .squad througii a small back gate, and
into the very bed chamber of the slee[)ing governor, Roch-
blave. The first notice Rochblave had that he was a
prisoner was Ivuntou tapping him on the siiouKlfr to awaken
him.
Thus the ftrrt and village were both captured without
shedding a drop of blood. It will, therefi>re, be seen that
the conquest and capture of Fort Gage and Kaskaskia, the
capital of Illinois, was one of the most peculiar and im-
portant events recorded in history.
More than a century has passed, and the ruins of Fort
Gage may yet be seen by the traveler, situated on the side
of the blurt" overlooking the now almost extinct village of
Kaskaskia. Both yet linger as departed glories of Revolu-
tionary fame and historv.
The people of Kaskaskia, after learning from Clark that
Franc* had joined hands with the colonists in battling
against England for liberty, readily acceded to his desires
and wishes, and several influential citizens of the town vol-
unteered their services to accompany Cupt. Bowman to Ca-
hokia to prejiare the minds of the people of that town of
the change of sentim, nt in the minds of the French. This
expedition was successful in its efforts, the Cahokians de-
claring for the American cause.
Col. Clark sub?e(iueutly learned that the British governor
at Vincennes had gone to Detroit, and that the fort — old
Sackville — was in the hands of the citizens. He therefore
arranged an embassy under the leadership of the good old
priest, Gibault, to go to Vincennes and persuade the people
to espouse the cause of the patriots. The enterprise was
successful, and the French of Vincennes, like the people
of Cahokia and Kaskaskia, declared for the Americans,
when Gibault, accompanied by several gentlemen from Vin-
cennes. returned to Kaskaskia with the joyful intelligence.
About this time the enlistment of the volunteers under
Clark was about to expire, and as his instructions were un-
defined, he acted at discretion Some of his men re-enlisted,
and several of the French from Kaskaskia and Cahokia
joined his command. Early in the following year, 1770,
two French companies were organized by Clark, one from
Kaskaskia and the other from Cahokia. The former was
commanded by Capt. Charleville and the latter by Capt.
JlcCartney. On the 7th of February, 177!t, this band of
heroes commenced its march from Kaskaskia on the "Old
Vincennes trace" to Fort Sackville. This " trace ' was
celebrated in Illinois, having been used as a route by the In-
dians nearly two centuries ago. It commenced at Detroit,
thence to Ouiaton, on the Wabash, passing through Vin-
cennes and terminating at Kaskaskia. In the language of
another writer, " It was the Appian Way of Illinois in an-
cient limes." In places it may yet be seen between the
historic towns of K:u-kaskia and Vincennes. This expedi-
tion of Col. Clark aud his little band was one of the most
dreary and fatiguing that was performed bj the patriots
during the Revohitio i.
WAIt OK 1S12.
In the year 179.") Captain William Whiteside gathered to
his staudard his few but trusty comrades, to the number of
fourteen, and attacked and killed a camp of Indians of con-
siderable number, who the French at Cahokia informed him
had assembled at the bluff, in pursuance of a medita'ed at-
tack upon him or his property. This decisive victory effec-
tually put an end to Indian hostilities in this vieinitv,
including the territory of Randolph, Monroe aud Perry
counties, and peace and security reigned for a period uf about
sixteen years, until ISIl, when hostilities again broke out.
Other localities, however, farther in the interior, were, prior
to this date iu constant fear of, and in actual sudcriug from,
Indian outrage.
The immediate cause of the manifest increase of hostile
feelings were the British agents and traders, who not only
furnished the Indians with arms aud ammunition, but also
encouraged a course of conduct the savages were readv to
pursue. Treaties made with solemn pledges were broken
with indifference. Promises and professions of friendship
were only better means of accomplishing the ends of treach-
ery. Murders were committed, and property was stolen and
carried away. This conditiou of things made it necessarv to
put the frontier in a condition of defen.se. The citizens
organized companies themselves, without the order of the
government, and the frontier was guarded along the Missis-
sippi, from the mouth of the Kaskaskia northward, and along
that stream, and also at other points. Forts and block-
houses or stations were also erected at various places, and
others already erected were brought into requisition. In
Randolph county were Fort Gage, of revolutionary fame,
occupying a position on the bluff looking across the Kas.
kaskia river upon the old town of that name; Xuthaniel
Hill's fort iu the northern part of the county, on Doza creek,
a little above its junction with the Kaskaskia; a stockade
fort in section •'J'J, town 4, range 7 ; the Georgetown fort,
within the corporate limits of Steelesville, on the Shawnee,
town road; and Huggins' fort, erected in l^T^ or '1.'! in sec-
tion 19, town •"), range 0 In Monroe were Whiteside's station,
a short distance southeast of Columbia ; Pitrgot's fort, about
a mile aud a half west of that village, at the foot of the Mis-
sissippi bluff, where flows the creek called by the French the
Grand Risseau ; and Going's fort, erected in an earlv dav, a
short distance southwest of Bellefontaine. Iu these strong-
204
BIS TOE y OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
holds the womeu and children were placed for fafety and
protection, while the men able to bear arms went in defense
of the settlement.
In 1811 Congress passed an act for the organisation often
companies of mounted rangers to protect the frontiers of the
West. Four of these companies were allotted lo the defense
of Illinois, whose respective captains were : Samuel and
William B. Whiteside, James B. Moore, and Jacob Short-
The VVhitetides and the Moores were among the early set-
tlers, not only of Monroe county but also in the Illinois ter-
ritory, and were ever to the fror.t at the call of patriotism
and valor. They were bred to the toils of pioneer life and
the i)erils of Indian warfare ; and, besides the sentiment of
patriotism, they had the additional stimulus of a determina-
tion to avenge the blood of their kindred.
Most active and zealous of all the patriots of Monroe
during the war of 1812 and the Indian troubles that pre-
ceded it, was John Moredock, who had declared an eternal
enmity against the Indian race, in peace and in war, on
account of the butchery of his mother, his father and his
two stepfathers. He was field officer in the campaign
under Governor Edwards in the fall of 1812 to the upper
end of Lake Peoria, and acted as major in that expedition.
He also acted in that capacity in the campaign of 1813
under General Howard. In December, 1814, while the
command of Captain James B. Moore, about fifty rangers,
were guarding a herd of cattle at a grove near Sugar
Creek, on a trail leading from Camp Russell to Peoria,
they discovered some Indians, and singling out one gave him
chase William Hewit, having the fleetest horse, came up
with the Indian, and promptly received the surrender of his
gun. Moredock, who had sworn he would kill every Indian
■who crossed his path, raised his gun to fire. The Indian
sprang forward and wrenched the gun he had surrendered
from Hewit's hands, and shot him just as the bullet from
Moredock's rifle went crashing through his breast For two
years prior to l.sU, though nothing like a regular warfare
existed, murders had been committed and property had been
stolen. Governor Edwards proceeded to inaugurate meas-
ures for a redress of these grievances. The surrender of the
murderers of innocent whites and of the stolen property
was to be demanded, and terms of an amicable settlement of
existing difliculties were to be oflered. Captain Levering,
of Kaskaskia, Randolph county, was chosen for the perilous
undertaking of bearing Governor Edwards' communication
to the Indians. To this end he organized a military com-
pany at Cahokia, and proceeded with it in a boat to Peoria,
then an almost inaccessible place in the midst of a wilder-
ness. Though the mission was not fruitful in accomplishing
the end in view, on account of the cunniug diplomacy of the
Indians, yet by his frequent informal communications with
them, Captain Levering learned much of their internal polity
and their feelings toward the Americans, whom they re-
garded as their enemies, despite professions of friendbhip.
Among those whose name should appear on the roll of honor
for Randolph county, stands Colonel Stephenson, a brave
officer, who was in General Howard's campaign in 1813.
To her credit should also be placed the names of Absalom
Cox, George Wilson and Eli Short, and many others. Otho
and Willit-.n Wi'son, Major Starkey, the Whitesides and
the Moores were a few of those who responded with manly
grace to their country's call, from Monroe.
Pay roll of a company of militia commanded by Captain
William Alexander of the county of Randolph, Illinois Ter-
ritory, Ninian Edwards, Governor of said Territory.
Willi
Captain.
im Alexander
Liaitcnnnt.
m MoBride
Coiiw
Seigcaiits.
Amos Chaffin
Uavid Everett
George Wilson
John AndersoH
Corp(yra\s.
A.lnm MoDonald
William Lees
(ieniKe Coehran
,I..sei.li Robinson
rraat.-s.
Rildfrbuk, Danie
Bailej-, Jsnwl
Buatte, Joseph
•iiv. Joseph
i:am..cl'v, Alexande
C'l-awfoVd, John
fi-eath, George
Dnre, Lonis
Eberman. Joseph
Etlen, James
Fisher. John
Gill, J,aines
Hill, John
llr.-L'ni-, l,'..li.Tt
Mav, J..hn
M.'Hride, John
.Me.Nal.h, James
.Mr-Ilonald, Robert
Null, H-my
Patton, Idmer
Petoiiie, Jn-eph
Johi
.b'l
.lolll
1,1
I.^.v, F.dward
I.a;iUford,Eli
Mai tin, George
.Mill trv, James
Miller, Joseph
Muster roll and inspection return of a detachment of the
1st Regiment of Illinois militia, under the command of
Capt. Absalom Cox, at Kaskaskia, the third of September,
1812.
Captain.
Absalom Cox
Corporals.
Shadrach Lively
Edward Clark
John Beatty
John Smvthe
James Clark
Thoma- Me Biid
Thomas Roberts
lyrwnvier.
Samuel 3Iansker
George Basics
John Willson
Adorn Wobrick
Sergeants.
Privates.
William Thompson
William Little
Robert Foster
William 3IcDonald
Richard Robinson
Samuel Keiner
James Patterson
James McFailand
Sh.ldrach Lively
John McClinton
All, hen- R..SS
Uobert Thompso
Of the above Samuel Mansker is yet living on the same
farm from whence he enlisted, near Rockwood a few miles
south of Chester.
We subjoin a list of the soldiers from these counties in
the Black Hawk and Mexican wars.
Captain Josiah S. Briggs' Company, Third Regiment,
Third Brigade, of Illinois Mounted Volunteers, called into
the service of the Vnitcd States, on the requisition of Gen-
eral Henry Atkinson, by the Governor's proclamation dated
May 1.3, 1832. Mustered out August 17, 1832 :
rupfnin.— Josiah S. Bliggs
Firtit Lievtcnant. — John INlorrison
Secovd Licvtenant.
SergfaiilK.
Robert Mann John Ale
Andrew McFarlan. Horse lost.
John MeFiirlan
Kiehaid Brodlev " " Pis-
charsed it Winiiebiiso, July 15.
Samuel Hathorn Horse lost,
Piicafes.
.\nderson, Pavid. Supposed to be
discharged at Caslieonong.
Anderson, Thomas
Barbour, James, Left to attend Saml.
Barboui-, sick at Ft. Winnebago,
Bateman, James
Burns, Samuel
Brown, Samuel
Campbell, Alexander. FiirnisliedJulv
l!ith, W. Harper as subetuuto.
Trans, to Capt. Lindsey
25th.
Campbell. Samuel.
Co., July
1 Caldwell, Rob
Left at Prairie du
I . fr with Col, Sharp at
;i .let. serv,
I Left at Prairie du
>. Horse lost,
a.
Promoted Sergt. Major
Saiiford
. John C.
,es, John M,
, Mose
ick. Is
Kilpat
ilton, sick,
Lee, James F,
Lee, John Ho
Lee, Thomas
Lively, Joseph
LivelV, James
Laird", John
1 Murpliv, Davk
McHeiirv,.lolii
ant B,
A. Left at Fort Ham-
Left tj attend sick at
ins-lORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AXD PKHRY COUXTIES, ILL I XO IS.
205
While, .I.>liii. Wounded in battle Aug.
Mnxwell, Samuel. I.efl to attend sick Smith, Franeis
at Prairie duChien. Hor-e loit. Snanwick, Francis. Left to attend the
Oliver, Duritt. Lett at Blue Mound'.sick sick of I'rairic du Chien.
Piitlei-sou, .larnes H. left at Prairie du S.adler, ISenjainin
Chieu, silk. Sheets, Firman. Horse lost.
PetlitI, Samuel Thomer-on, tieorge
Kobiuson Richard Horse lost.
Short, Thomas Killed July 21st.
This company eniolled and electe 1 its officers on May 24,
lcS32. May 27, 18:?'2, inarciied on for Beardstown, and was
raustcred into tlie service of llie United States June 21,
1832.
CAPTAIN WILLIAM IJORDON's COMPANY. ENROLLED JUNE
22, 1832.
A company of Mounted Volunteers of Illinois Militia,
organized as a company of spies, by order of Brigadier Gen-
eral Atkinson of the V .S. Army. The uon-coinniissioned offi-
cers and privates having been taken from the lines of other
companies i \ the service, and the officers having been ap-
pointed by General Atkinson, and continued in the .service
as a spy company, during the period stated mustered out at
Dixon's August 14, 1832.
Hill. L»wi=
.lones Sla'iphter
Jeriard Francis
Kinion, James
Kinimau-.a, Haplist
l.vn.li, Janus
ii-.M.lvinv, John
Sefond Licut''nnnl,
Co'jtorah.
William Morrison
Mcdard Mcnar.l
Louis Wihuot
iierff€fiiiVt.
l!ol»rt Murphy
William Murphv,ofPinck-
iieyvillc.
Pritfales.
William Swauu ick.of Kas-
kaskia.
Adams. Levi
Jtl'K'k. Marcus
William Mvers.of Kaskas-
Urausou, Lewis
kia
Brown, John
Robert Crawford, of Kas-
Chan,l.i.,e, Lewi
kuskia
I>..za, Joseph
cpp.
.Haplist
Pa.-<c]ial. Francis
SmiUi, Francis
La.hapcllc, Hcnr
CAPTAIN THOMAS HARRISON S COMPANY.
Of the Old Battalion commanded by Thomas James,
Major, composing part of the Brigade of Mounted Volun-
teers commanded by Brigadier General Samuel Whiteside.
Mustered out of service of the United States at the mouth
of Fox river on the Illinois river on May 28, 1832.
OiJ.Min.
Thos.Uarrison.app. Capf. Apr. 28, 1832
I-'irst LientcHnnt,
Edward T. Morgan.elec.lst Lieut.
April 28, 1832.
Sr.€Oiid LieuUnant,
Thomas McRoberts, dec. 2d Lieut.
April 28, 18»2.
Serqeants.
James Moore, app. Adjt April 28, 1832.
Thomas Tftj"lor,
Feli.x Clark.
John Strong,
CorpomU
William McMoore William McNabb
Pendleton Hill Henry Harttin
Farriers.
Johnston Nathan C, app. Sergt. Major
May 18.
Miller. William
Whitelockc, James
Cornelius, J M Mc, tr toanother Regt
Surg's Mate, Isl Regt.
Pricala
Bond. Shadr.ich B.
Baird Scinio, apt^rtrmstr. May 18, 1832
Birch, John
Birch, Fielder
Brooks, Stephen
Clark, tieorgo
CAPTAIS A. W.
Carr, Solomon
Fasten, Stephen
Fisher, Gramer
Haskins .Moses, app. Brig. Trumpeter
April 28. IS12.
Horinc Michael, app PaymstrApr 28, '32
James John, on furl, app. Sergt. Major
April 28, resig'd May 18. '
Kidd, John
Lacey, Caleb
Livers, Joseph
Morgan, William
M«M)re J Milton, app. Brig. Color Bearer
April 28,1832.
M.Klglin, John
McDaniel, John, app.lst Sergt. Apr 28, '32
.He
-NcH, H
Xeeilles, James I
I*rest<in, .lames
Bamsev William
Rogers, John
Rieht. John
Snvder Solomon
Smith, Calvin
ShfK.k, Michael
Starr, Ashbridgc
Todd, Edward
Trail, Xerxes F.
Triplet!, Nimrod
Wyatt, R. M.
SfTf/eantt,
Nathan Johnston
Corporals.
, gun lost, battle
SSYDER S COMPASy.
PriroUx.
Cornelius I M McTy, gun lost Jun
Hill Pendleton
Moore, John M.
McMoore, William
Needles James B.
!l6,'32 Right, John
1 I8:i-2, at Di.xon'3
Ferrv. Rock
[river, 111.
CAPTAIN WM. C. RALLS' COMPAiJY.
ScrgentiL
Pd'int'j
Brooks, Stephen
Trail, Xerxes F.
Illinois Mounted Volunteers, mustered out of the service
of the United .States by order of Brigadier General Atkin-
son, June loth, 1832.
CAPTAIS JAMES TDOMPSOS's COMPAXY.
Of the Third Regiment, Third Brigade, of Illinois
Mounted Volunteers, called into the service of the I'nited
States by the Governor's proclamation, dated
1S32. Mustered out August 17, 1832:
Captain.
James Thompson
•, Ishom F,
-r, John
, William, lost hi!
horse on forced
fir^ Li«iitt:nant. march
amucl Barbour, .absent sick; left at '}""'" "y- ,"■'
Fort Winnebago, July 15. Illalhwav, Mi
Seroiil Licuteuanl. Ilui:hc«. lolii
Vm. H. McUill. ab-ent : left at Prairie J"'.";"' \;)']";
iln fhein to take care of John Whi
wounded t>y Indians.
Millii
M..
iixl on sun
i.l.'. Al.-al..
, Millc
Sc'ncanli. M'B
Moses W. Tasgnrt "';''
Hiihard Lively, absent; left above "
■"Prairie du Chien to take care of Kob- ^j"^
crt Smith, sick. \lin.-i- liobert
K..l.ert c. Jones |Mc.\ecl, William
Harmon, Marim Overton, Bcnjami
Corporal: I'allir^oii, .lohn,
>r,-hibald Croiier I brother Jnmc
, absent with leave
1 F., horse killed
KolMTt Ha
lillo
TI,omp«
Park
r., absent : left to' sii-
li-cw McCorniick, R'
. W"i
, lost his horse, present
1, Ja
Airn(M.
John
Brown,
Brown, John C.
Been. Allen
Ball, X.'Ison. discharged .n
on surgical ecrliti' ate
Bowerman, William
Bildcrbnck, Friend
Crozier. Andrew
Davis, Robert
Iiiikcs, Martin
.Short. John, discharged at Bine Mound
on surgical certiticate
Steele, James, absent on furlough since
Jidy2.-.
Stc^'je, IJcorpc. lost his horse
Smith, Robert R .absent sick ; left near
. Join
! Mound Ta
T las. .I..hu W.
Timlcl.John
Ai.kcrs, Abel
\Vil.ox. James
Wise. Kno.h (;. horse dr
utiK
: lost
This company was raised and organized on June 4th,
under the command of Gabriel Jones, Captain ; James
Thompson, First Lieutenant; Samuel Barbour, Second
Lieutenant. Marched on June Mh, and was mustered into
the service at Fort Wilbourn June 21st, under Captain
Thompson, Gabriel Jones having been elected Colonel.
CAPTAIS JACOB FP.EEM.lS's,
AFTEP.H'ASDS CAPTAIS JA.\IE3 COSSER 3
COMPASY.
Of the third Regiment, Third Brigade, Illinois Mounted
Volunteers, called into the service of the United States on
the requisition of General Atkinson by the Governor's
proclamation, dated -
August 17, 1832.
Copiaini.
1^.;2. Mustered out
Wiley Paschall, horse lost or stolen
f Privates.
Jacob Feamans, resigned July 2.i, 18;12 Rnnj^ Edward
James Conner, promoted July 25 from ijrewer, Vincent
First Lieutenant Brigbtwell, John
_ , ,. ,„ , Brown Allan.sun.dis. June 21; disability
first Linilaaa^t. , . ^^,..^ ^, _ ^,jg j^|y ,,,. jjj^bility
Matthew Gray. pro. July 25, 1832, from (hniiall, Elias
Firet Sergeant Ctiaupine, Lewis
„ . -. , „, I>oris, Martin W., pro. pavmstr July 15
Sccoia UculenanL Duggcr, Find, left at Prairie du Chien
Darid Wright, pro. June 1" and left sick I to tend sick August?
at Prairie du Chien i De Rouse, Henry
I Davis, Michael
Sergeants. > Doza, Joseoh
Isaac Nelson, appointed July 25 f-"™'- Y;'.'.',','"'"
George Glenn, appointed June 22 i Fulton. W .llmm
Menard Maxwell, appointed June 20 Hampton, W ilson
Joseph Orr, appointed Quar. Serg. July Jones. Armstead, woundeil
26, 1832
Corporals.
Patrick Faherty , .liilv M
James Wlielan Lachapclle. He
John Levett, sup. dis. Aug. 4, 1832 ILevens, Henry
July 21
d absent with leave from July 25
Jarrcl, John
Langton, Francis, left sick at Mounds
206
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Mi-liiM.l. Mc.liM.l.ah. with leave- Aua. 7 Pa^ral, Fnui.i«i
Miei>, JiiniesP., det. to t»n<i on Jones 1:.l. it-, \i
JnlviS. i:.> ii"M-, I'll"
Mart, Riwelle s im .m , i , i ,. , sup. dis. Jul
'26, 183
Morrison, William, ab. with leave Aug.: .<! \ t nii, 1 '..ni.ims F., dis. J
une 16
Mn.ld, Hiirrison disninlitv
MCnar.l. Peter, lost horse and pack Will, Joseph
saddle on foreed march Winter, William
Onuer, Ferilinaud Woolsev, Washinston
O'Harra, John, .lis JulvI6:disnl)ilitv Wilson,' David E:, left at Pr
lirie di
Phillips, lierrel, dis. July 16; disability Chien sick
Pattersi>n, IShenler White, John
Penniana, Haptisf, horse lost on or near Willmuth, Louis
This company was organized at Kaskiskia May "25,
1832, aiul was mustered into the service of the United States
at Fort Wilbourn, June 21, 1S32.
CAPTAIN WILLIAM ADAIr's COMPANY
Of the Third R giment, 3d Brigade, Illinois Volunteers,
called into the s rvio of the United States on the requisi-
tion of General Henry Atkiisoa, by the G ivernor's procla-
mation, dated , 1S32. Mustered out August 17, 1832.
Oipfniiu.— Pnvid Baldridsie, resicned June 26, and nppointcil adintant.
William Adnii-, piomoted captain June 26 IVoin the lanks.
First L'n't'-rn„f. — Tail.!' .Sliort, jiromoted June I'.f fruni 2d lieuienant.
Snowl /<,../',,;..' -I-hn Hansf<ird, promoted Jum l:i fr-iii i-i ii.ite. Lost tent.
Serge::'!! - \\ in r Miirphi
- U in I
Corjio.!.;..— Mnalii
Ander.son, Al.
I.i at Win
Ander-on, B.-
l.oiirn : n
undcd in Irattle : 1. ii m I'ln lu fhien.
. U. Murphy. Lo-t t.iii. Frederi.-I; \Vi
c' Lo.st horse; I'urloushed August 8.
James M. Hogue, furloughed .\ngust 8.
frigates.
■ :[ Julv Hii'-'cins, James.
Hull. Z.-l.-.li e.
■. :,[ Wil- K.Mtli. K..-1I1
. ~ .M., left sickatPrai-
lironn, James C, furloUKhed Augusts ^1
Brown. Pavton. M -
Benson. l..'» is.
rliiik. .Inl.ii, liirl. AUS!. 8; lost horse. r.: I ■■ - nn-l : lost horse.
Clinr ,|.n I 1'. I \n:n ' In:-! llOVSC.
( a-^, ill! nn, fill I. .nulled August S. I'. I.I, ,1 :ii 11,
Cr.iii. l:-!ii .hsr .liuie 2:iat Wilbonrn ; I:. -, I i ' i.
surL-eon's eertif. l-'i \- '
Dickson. John. I '. - [bourn.
Earnest, Andrew. " i i Iv, dis. June 2:! at Wil-
Ford Jess,. \\.,,. I . Ill, .ti>chd, at Blue Mound;
France, Peter. «.Hn..l..i August in.
Garner, Fran. is. , Wells, Josiah.
Hawkins \u-l".rn. : Wejks, Peter W., furloughed August 2.
Hotehings, Eli J. Wo,.,lrum, Nieh.jlas.
Hutching, , d. Aug. Z, rec. Aug. 0, Washburn, John.
Hutching, William, dead; left siek at Wolf, Tliom.as, furloughed August 8.
SaltUiverJuneU.
SOLDIERS IN MEXICAN WAR.
The Si.clh Regiment. — Otherwise known as the Second
Regiment, enlisted, "during the war," was organized out of
the overtlow of companies which were raised for the Fifth
Regiment. So much honor had been achieved by the four
regiments sent out by the State the first year of the war,
that their praise was on every lip, and the young and am-
bitious were ready to make any sacrifice to be able to go and
fight the Mexicans. When the call was made for the Fifth
regiment it was difficult for the Governor to select, as the
men poured in by hundreds, and enough reported in ten days
to fill half a dozen regiments. Application was made to the
Secretary of War for permission to organize another regiment
which was granted, and the Sixth was organized at Alton,
Illinois, on the 3d day of August, 1847, by the election of J.
Collins as Colonel.
Shortly after the regiment was mustered into the United
States service it was forwarded by steamer to New Orleans,
and then divided into two battalions. Companies A, D, E,
F and H, under the command of Col Collins, being sent to
Vera Cruz, where they arrived August 3 1st, 18847. The
second battalion under Lieutenant Col. Hicks consisted of
companies B, C, G, I aud K, and was forwarded by vessel to
Tarapico, remaining there until Jan. 1st, 1848, then joined
regiment at Jalapa and marched to city of Mexico. From
there they were ordered to Pueblo where they remained un-
til they came home. Both battalions, as the muster rolls
show, lost heavily from sickness, incident to climate. This
regiment was mustered out on the 20th to the 25th days of
July, 1848, at Alton, Illimiis.
MUSTER ROLL C0MP.4XT G.
Discharged at Alton, July 21, 1818.
C'tplain. — James Moore. First Lieutenant. — Edward Olme'.veney.
Second t.euren.cnte.— William C.Slarkey Austin James
Serj/ertMte.— James Close. Solomon Varnum. Willii
a.r^.oru(s.— Benjamin Atwell. Peter Dowling. John Hillhurn.
Phomas James.
1 Hillburn.
Elijah Adams
.V«<
s. — .Vugustus Holley
Primtcs.
Ellis, William
Conrad Kii
McCullock, Wm. G.
Miirphv, Patrick
Mann, Joseph
I. Williiin
II, Win.
s. Ha
fans, Ev
> Left si.
.Adams, Edward. .
Blunt, Britain . . .
Bishop, George . .
Blaeksto.ie, George
Bishop. E
Br I
. Charle'
i-l, .Nirli.ila
Lively, George
MeCannah, John
t VeraC.-u2; supp:)S
18.
.Srrgennl.
. Died in Hospital r
Privnta.
. Died in Il.ispital s
. Die.l in Hospital :
. llle.l i.i l|..s|,ical :
, I ill II. -I'll .1
Swam;,.]. I
iSUMlh.Wii
Swear, I'll
Willinan.
Wil..o'c,,\
Walla.-e. (
;d tobe'.liicharg
; Tampii
. Tampie
Me.\ico, Nov. 4, 1847.
, Nov., 1847.
, Nov. 4, 1847.
. N.jv. II), 1847.
\'_'iil •_■•_•, 1848.
. Die,' i
1 lb
SI. II ll ,ll 1 111
. Die.l i
1 111
-].|tal lit 1,11.
. Died 1
1 II.
.|ill ll 111 I'll.
. Did
1 lb
spil.ll 111 1,11111
. Die.l 1
n II.
spiral at Jalap.
. Dui.l 1
1 Hi
spiral at Tamp
1 Hospital atTampico, Me.xico, Feb. II, 1848.
John H. Di.t
Beahers, Th
Mi-Kiiil.-v,IIngh F.
. . Discharged at Vera Cruz, Feb., 1848, disability.
Privates.
Pisi.|ial;.'...l :
I ... Sent. 2.S, 1S)7, ilisabllitv.
. ... Sept. 28,1847, dis.ahility.
1 uz, Feb. 7, 1848, disability.
.King.
. Transferred by order of Col. Gates.
Edward Tilley Transferred by order of Col. Gales.
Corporal.
Joseph Wilcox Discharged at Pueblo, Mexico, April 'j4, 1848.
Privates.
Heath, D.aniel S. Youngm.an, Jacob.
There are but six survivors of this company : Capt. James
M. Moore, now in California; Austin James, Monroe County ;
Thomas James, a merchant in Chester ; Henry Clover,
Missouri; John Dickson, Illinois; and Solomon Varnum of
Oregon.
Ml'STEK ROLL COMP.\SV I.
Organized at Waterloo, Monroe County, Illinois, in the
month of May, 1846. Mustered into the service of the
United States at Alton, Illinois, on the 24th day of June,
1846. Mustered out on the 18th day of June, 1847, at
Camargo, Mexico.
HISTORY OF ItAXDOLPH, MOSROE AND PERRY (OCXTIES, ILLIXOIS.
207
, Adj. of Regt., order Col.
Oi/jl Mil— Madison .Miller.
FiiU LiVnfamenl— .\iiKu-I G. Whitcsidf, detashed senic
l<id»!ll, from July 1st.
Sf<onit LUiitennHls—3o\\n L. Wilson, Jnmes H. Waddle.
Scrj/canf.— Jamos C. B. Rcid, .nhscnl fin furlough from May 3.1 till etp.iervic<
Tii'.m.TS W. Mnrmui, appointed from private March Nt, IS47.
William S. Agnew, appointed from corporal .March Ijth. 1847.
Jacoli Frieli.
CVKiH/rafc— Is.iae Tolin.
John Agnew. appoint^^d from private March 1. 1S47.
Jaikson M. LcKkerl. apix.inl.d from private March l.%im7.
Samuel MeMiirirv. a:))K>inIed lr<im private .March'-; wounded
battle of Feb. s.\, IslT.
3fH«tciaii« — .John Cook, appointed from private.
Henry Iman, apjiointed from private.
PriciiUs — Apnew. Francis.
Applepat.-, Aaron H., w mnded in lialtle, Feb. it.
Buru.», Fred.-ric. (.iirev, tieorge. F.verett, Elward.
Clark, Feli.x. lliveVs, Ananias. Fisher, William.
I'laik, Edward.
Finiier, Theodore, ho.«pital attendant at San .\ntonio from Oct. G.
Hiltnian. Lewis, wounded in battle of Feb. .:3.
Hewetl, Ja.ob.
Hiiikler, Chailes, wounded in battle of Feb. n.
HaiUin. James L. Hol.bs. William. John.ion, William.
Hill. Samuel G. Inian. Samuel. Klinkliard, Je.sepli.
H.irker. rhi.mas. Irinakei, Henrv. King, William.
K. II. S.'I'.iii.iu, wounded in bailie Feb. H.
I.a.. V, William. MeMi.rlrv, Joseph. Morrison, William,
l.illv'. Jaiii.s 11.
.Miiiiimeii. Miehael, wounded in b.tttlc Feb. -a.
.M..lir. J..lin Jacob. Moire, Lvwis W. .Moore, I. Milton.
M.>..r.-, Nels,.ii, reduced from sem.aTU .March 1.1: nans, to staff.
.Mnrrav, lart-r. Stionir, John L. Talb..tt, Elijah,
tlllricli, John. Smith, .\i.li..|as. Tope, GeolBC W.
I'illiard, Ja -..b. Thackeniy, tt illiam. Wilson, Edward.
Soiinoti, .lami-jf. Tliompsoii, James. Warnoek, Joseph.
Sexton, haniel.
Welirlieuo, Valentine, w..iiiide.l in little Feb. 2J.
Walllc.-. liei.llle. Wal.l, Philip.
}1. Im, William, reduee.l from ,...rp..ial March 1.
Long, John, reduced from Sergeaiu .March 1.
l,U^l...r.jol.
Dains, William, disehargc.l Bnena \ista Mav :l.i: wounded Feb. -il.
Kiinvnii, Courlland.ilisiharg.'d Bnena Vi.| T Mav 3U.
Wliite, John xM., discharged llnena Vista .May M.
Dirl.
Leerninp. tieorgo, died >ray 8 at Camp Hiicna Vi
Suiiiies, llirain. died of wounds received
Wilcox, James .M., died at Parros; time i
SECOND KEGIMENT ILLINOIS V01.S., -MEXICAN WAR.
MISTER KOI.I. COMl'ASV K.
a.j.(.aii«.— I.al an G. .Tones, resigned at Alt.oi, III.
Hawkins s. I isvburn. resigned at laiiiii Croekelt, Texas.
Thomas Armstrong, lesiirn.d at .Saltill... Mexico.
C. L. S'arl.n.k, must, rcl „iil June Is, IslT. at lamargo, Jl.xieo.
Fira lifiifeu.ui'.— Nalhal II liclh.,111. musld 0111 June l.s, IstT. at ( alimlg... Mex.
Srcoi.</ ;..™/,«..Nf.— Ni leiniis We-t. w.mn.led batll. ..f Huciia Vista. Feb. il,47.
T»ird iiciitaoiiirt. -James I Steel, kill, d in battle 01 liiiclia Vista. Feb. ii, 1S47.
John I>. 1:11-.'. noist.'i.'.l Jim.' Is. 1S17, al Lainargo, Mex.
SrrjMiiii.— Mustered out June Is. Ist7. al « ' .loar;.'.., M.xic.i.
liavidson C. Moor.-. l:iel,ar.| II. Williams, .ler..ii„ II. W.-si, Gilford II. lia'.-g.ard.
Onjoi-of..— Mnslc-reil out June Is, Isj:. a' ( aliiai!;... .M.-.xiei).
John A. Faiiin. J..hii V. F..rd. J..I111 |i. ll..«laii.l. Eliiui G. Chappell.
Priru/o.— .Mustereil out Juno IS. 1S47, at lalnar-o, Mi^xieo.
Armsir..iig. I!. .Ik it W., Auileison. William 1'.
Abcrnalhy, KolKut, killed at battle of liiiena Vista. Feb. Zl, 1847.
Mustered out June is. ls47, at Caniargo, Mexico.
Brown, Isaac M., Hmwn, William G., Bridges, William W.
BoMland, Hani|itoli, ilie.l at (amp Crockell, Texas.
Miislere.l out June IS, IS47, at Camargo, Mexico.
Campbell, G. W . laiiii.t.k. .Saurl. Crawfor.l, Marsh , Crawford, Hamp.
Capewll, J..s.-ph. .lis.haige.l (disabililv).
Llelingei, William H., .lied at Sallill ., Mexico.
Mustereil out June 18, 1817, at Caiiiar.go, Mexico.
Haily, Hiram, Dry, .lolin M., iMy, Edmninl.
Kitton, Siiinuel, discharged at Camp Crockett, Texa? (disability).
Clustered out Juue 18, 1847, at Camargo, Me.xico.
Fanin, William 1'., Foster, William A.
1 lischarged at Camp Crockett, Texas (disability).
Glover, Itii'hard, Hamp, llosi^a.
Hawkins, Marquis C, mustered out June 18, 1847, at Camargo, Mexico.
Wounded in battle of Buena Vista, Feb. 2:t. 1847.
Hoge, Marion Ii.. Hamilton, Ali'xaii.ler A.
Humphries F.rdid G., mustered out June Is, ls47, at Camarg... Me.x.
Hale, Jonathan K.. died at Camp Cnxkcit, Tex.as.
Higgarsou, John 1"., died at Uueiia Vista, .Mexico.
Mustered out June IS, 1817, at Camargo, Mexico.
Hammaek, I-ewis, Johnson, William L. (of Uaudolph county, Mo.)
Jones, Riley, died at Camji Crm-keil, Texas.
Killed in the Kittle of liucna Vista, Feb. 23, 1817.
Jones, Mansker, Jones, William.
Kellev, Uriah U.. wounded in the battle of li la Vista. Feb. ja, 1SI7.
Kimzey, Jonn, killed in the battle of Uueiia Vista, Feb. ii, 1847.
JIustered out June 18, 1847, at Camargo. Mexico.
Lynch, Adam W., I.vneh, David a.
Leigh, George E., woiin.le.l in the battle ol Biiciia Visl;^ Feb. 23, IS17.
Musterc.l out June IS. Isi7, at Camargo, Mexie.i.
.Maline, K.lwin, .Marl.iw, William.
Marlow, Ui.'liar.l, wounded in the battle ot Uiiena Vista, Feb. 21, 1847.
Killed in the battle of Buena Vistm Feb. zi, lsl7.
.Marlow, St Tliiig S., -Marlow, R .biuson.
Mustered out June l.s, 1S47, at Camargo, Mexieo-
Montagil.', Cave, Monlai-ii.'. G. T.. Neil, Win.. Hyatt. J. W.
I'yatt, James, died from aecid ntal gunshot W'.iiud, San Anlunio, Tex.
Mustered out, June IS, 1817, at Caniargo, Mexico.
I'rit. hel, Levi, Pe tit, John V., Pettit, G .urge D.
Must Id out June 18, 1847.
Kohinson, I.arkiu L.i.if W.ish. e.i.i. Itobiiisnn, John (of Wash, co.)
Kamse.v. Eli. inustere.l ..ut Jiin • Is, lsl7,.at CaluarKo, Me '
, .Na hi
llaglalid Mar.illis, kill .1
Ihe.dau.l, J..hn l'.,»..ii
SpouL-, liavi.l. .lie.l (.,(
I'l'.l i
Id i
III.- I.:
Ilh
sles) i
He .if Bile
ml.' of llll.'lk
Untie .,r Ilui
1 Vista Feb. i:. I«»7.
», Feb. it, 1.117.
sta, Feb.il, lsl7
Milt le.l out June 18, 1.'5I7, at Camario, Me
.'Siewart. .bun.s. .Stewart, 1!. W., Tavlor, W. U.,
Terrv. Alfred, died at Pans, M.-xieo.
Terry, Carter, died at Adtillo, .Mexico.
Slilst-red out June is. 1S17, at (amarg.i, M.xieo.
T.-ague, Joslina, West. Van 1! , Wilks. Ui. Iiar.l.
Wilks.Jnhn (..f Jaks..ii .„. ,kill.-.l in baille liu.iia Vista. Feb. i!, -47
Wi|s,,„, U.,lH-rt, drown.-.l in .Mi-sissip|.i J!., six miles l.e|. -
Wells.Gile.s, inusteiedoiit Jim.- Is, 1647, at Camargo, .Me
, Hansel.
■ Natchel.
THE WAR FOR THE UNION.
The history of tliis bljoily c iiillict antetlates l)y many
years actual recurrence to arras; and in the senate chamber
and in the hall of representatives were enacted scenes nf
moral warfare, no less noble in character or glorious in re-
sults than those that afterward occurred in the ensanguineil
field. Whether here or in the congress of the United iStates
the contest was the same — a war for principle, justice and
right. With subtile brains as the cliam]>iiiiis and opponents
of the doctri le of St lie rights, and witli the institution of
slavery in tL.. .tfoulh, hated by the North the cuutcst could
not remain a moral one. Ttie fire.s of interiul dissension which
had long been smouldering, burst into a flame. And history
nowhere exhibits a nobler moral spectacle than that of a
united North, with buried prejudices, moving as one man in
defence of that union wLtse fcuriialit us, laid by wisilom's
hand and sealed by jiatriots' blood, were destined eteiually
to remain. The ytar l.'Still witnesied the elevation of Abra-
ham Lincoln to the chief magistracy of the United States,
and, on the 20lh day of Dcci'mber, the secession of South
Carolina from the union, Mississippi, Florida, Alabama,
Georgia, Louisiana and Texas fullowcd in order the exam-
ple of their bister State.
The government of the Confederacy styled "The Confed-
erate States of America," was formed February 4, ISGl,
and Slonlgomery, Alabama, was chosen as the ])lace of ad-
ministration. The seat of government was subsequently re-
moved to Virginia, after the secession of that State.
Upon the accession of President Lincoln JIarch 4,1861,
he found the Union divided, and the country on the eve of
civil war. No more trying lircumstances ever existed, than
those that surrounded the new president; patriotism, cour-
age and juiignu-nt were never more eminently displayed.
With a dejik-t (1 treasury, empty ais,!iials and a sea tcred
uavy, the prospect for the union seemed dark indeed ; but,
the noble Lincoln, as by an insight more than human, boldly
issued a call for troops and began the work of suppressing
the rebellion
The war opened with the tiring on Fort Sumter, ou the
208
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
morniug of Apiil 12, 1861. This insult to the uni.u flag,
this daring act of open rebellion, sent a thrill of excitement
through the whole land ; patriotic blood ran coursing
through the veins, as it had never run before. Men of all
classes left their occupations, and in response to the call of
the president for troops for three months, seventy five thous-
and volunteers were seen marching to the sound of martial
music.
The first blood <if the war was spilled in Baltimore, dur-
ing an attack made by the mob upon a Massachusetts regi-
ment of volunteers, while passing through that city, on their
way to Washington, April 19, IXGl.
The first important battle was fought at Bull Run, Vir-
ginia, June 21, same year. For a complete account of this
greatest and most sanguinary of all wars, the reader is re-
ferred to the many excellent histories on that subject. The
war virtually closed with the surrender of Lee's army to the
Union commander, Gen. U. S. Grant, arrangements for
which were made by these generals, at Appomattox Court
House, April 9, 18(i."). The surrender of Gen Joseph E.
Johnston to Gen. Sherman, at Raleigh, North Carolina, 2tjth
inst, and the capture of Jefferson Davis, at Irwinsville,
South Carolina, IMay Kith, were the closing evtnts of the
war.
The sentiment of patriotism, so generally felt in all parts
of the land, was strong in the people of Randolph, Monroe
and Perry, and nobly did they respond to their country's
call, sending many of their brave sons in defence of the
Union.
Their names, as enrolled at the Adjutant General's office,
appear below under the heads of the commands to which
they respectively belonged.
SEVENTH INFAXTRY.
{Three Yeui-s' Sen-ice).
The Seventh Infantry Illinois Volunteers was mustered
into the United States service at Camp Yates, Illinois, April
2.5, ISGl, by Capt. John Pope, U. S. A. It was forwarded
to Alton, St. Louis, Cairo, and Mound City, where it re-
mained during the three months' service. It wa^ re-organized
and mustered for three years' service July 2-5, 1H61, by Capt.
T. G. Pitcher, U. S. A., and immediately joined the com-
mand of Brigadier General B. M. Prentiss in Missouri. It
went into winter quarters at Fort Holt, Kentucky. During
the battle of Belmont it was sent to Ellicott's Mills, just
above Co'umbus, in the rear of which it had been in the
reconnoitering expedition under General Grant. It was
engaged in the last charge on the left of the enemy's works
at Fort Donelson, February 15, 1802. April 6ih and 7th,
it was engaged continually in the battle of Shiloh. At the
battle of Corinth, October 3d and 4th, 1862, the regiment
was engaged both days. From this time up to December
22, 1863, it was in many important skirmishes and marches.
At this date the regiment re-enlisted as Veteran Volunteers,
and behaved with great gallantry at the battle of Altoona
Pass. On the 9ih of July, 1865, it was mustered out of
service.
r,;r„l,; — M.N.^
MI^TKi; RltlA, (OMPA
MI.'STEU r.OI.L inMI'ANV 1.
-N.irt.iii, Cliailfs S., niustcre.l olil .Inn.- -i, \mr-,.
M1;N FltOM MOSIiOE COUNTY.
Ml SI
i| 1.
I Ml'.
^V .V.
•s.-KrviMit. .Ic,M.|,li I-. .||. J :,l [-.III 11..11. Kv , Ilr... T, ISOI.
ran,,. .\ii|...j,..,n, .li.'.l m1 .Mnin„l I ic\. Ill . .\..>. JU, l!fi;l.
(ifriH-, Jli.lia.l, .h~. I.ariir.lac l'..il Holt, Ky., .Ian. 7, lni;2.
ML-nTKli ROLL f'OMl'.VXV F.
Mr.STER HOLL COMl'-VNY F.
,1 ami S„k.lil„tf y.vma.v— Fr..zziir.l. E.luHPl, mn-li-lvcl .,nt S..|.I.
NINTH INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Serrk,}.
This was one of the six regiments organized at Springfield
for three months' service. After the expiratiou of this term,
on the 2(ith day of July, l.stil, it was mustered into United
States' service for three years by Captain Pitcher. It was
engaged at Fort Donelson, occupying a position where the
most severe fighting took place. It lost '■>■'> men killed, 166
wounded, and 6 prisoners. At Shiloh, it played a gallant
part, sustaining a loss, April 6th, of 61 kill(d,2^7 wounded,
and two prisoners. It participated at the battle of Corinth,
October 3d and 4th, losing 19 killed, 82 wounded, and 52
prisoners. Dec. 13, 1862, commenced a reconnoisance to
Guntown, Tupelo, and Marietta, JMii-sissippi. It was
mustered out of service July LUh, LSi'i5, at Lanesville,
Kentucky.
JIEN FROJt TERRY COUNTY.
MusTLi'. r.oi.L c:ioir.\NY it.
P/ i.,ito.— ri.nnr..nl, .Lise].]., Vet. tr. to c... C as Consolhtati.l .M O. .Inn,. 2\. ISW
MFN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MISTER F.OLL COMP.\NV I'.
Se,;.,,.l lu-ulemt»t lifitr'nn H.ni v \-> t , M n, .1 nlv'i, ■.;,-.
Will. M.M-I,l,.|ilii k,liiii.rx..\Mfj.2n,'i'.l
A.l.ilulin- CriHliu-. I I Xuv. l:i, IsiU
M 11. Vii
u-t ■!», I.SM
:.. 11. n. All
iii.kir.lCi.r
n-l -li\ 1S.14
iilhiu.U.'r.i
Buavorsoil, Williiim W .liliii,: rh;,i I. -, .li- 1, IVIay 27, 1805,
Belise William, ilical Mavll, ISM. .ii-,l,., W.ii h.^i i- S.Tiroaiit
Borgamieu Baltliisar, died Mar. 4, ISili' Zunl.aiih II. iii v , \ .1 , M. 1 1. Si-pt. a, 'Go
TENTH INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Service}.
This regiment was organized and mustered into United
States service for three months, April 29, 1861, at Cairo, 111.
It was composed of seven companies of infantry and three
of artillery. It was mustered into service for three years,
July 29, 1861, by Capt. T. G Pitcher, and remained at Cairo
and Bird's Point during the winter, engaging, January ^^ii'l,
in Grant's movemeut to the rear of Columbus. jNIarch 1st,
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MOXROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
209
assisted iu scattering Jeff. Thompson's guerillas at S3-kes-
town, Mo. Ou the night of the 12th instant advanced with
General Pope's army on New Madrid. The night of April
7th, intercepted the forces retreating from Island No. 10,
causing the surrender, at Tiptouville, of Gen. Macall and
2,.j00 men. Was in the advance in all the movements re-
sulting in the capture of Curiu'h and the pursuit of the
enemy to Booneville. Reached Nashville September 12th,
having lost five men killed by guerillas. liemained here
during the blockade, and participated in the repulse of the
enemy. Nov. 24th, supported Gen. Sherman's attack on
the left of Mission Ridge, pursuing the retreating forces and
capturing 20 of tlieir rear guard. Jan. 1, 180-1, re-enlisted
as veterans under command of C(d. John Tillson. Jan oO,
180."), crossed the Salkahatchie at River's bridge. The
crossing was difficult, and obstinately contested. The Third
Brigade, to which the regiment was attached, being in the
advance, lost 12.5 men. Dec. 0th, crossed South Edisto, at
Binniker's bridge, and took the position of the enemy in
flank, driving them from their entreM<hmeut! and capturing
several prisoners. March 2lltli and 21st, participated in the
battle of Bentonville, with a loss of about tiO men. Mus-
tered out of service July 4, l^O-"), and on the 11th received
final payment and d scharge at Chicago.
HEX FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
i.it■u^^lull^C^.(<^lld.— Pavirl Gilk-spii', tnustcreil out July 4, 18C5.
1IUST£U EOLL CO.MPAXY I.
CJnj)<ai
i Fuller S.-tli, rlis. April 0, 1802, disability
Ephi
ustered out
First LUttUnattts. II .'ti
: II Roaersou, rcsignVI Nov 13, "Ki Hu'sh-n .J;i
Scr^jefmts.
William C Bradlcv, Vet.
AWku Wier, Vet., 'M. O. July 4, 1S(S5
lia
•I'll.
i Xclsnn, diedSeptrab'rl5, 18r,2
II:ir.lin r.,luinbus, accidentally killed
.liilv 'J, isiu
.lai^l.' I.'.ui^. died December 21, 1801
CarporaU. K. ni.T I -:..!.■, died riH.-eTill'er IS, isr.l
.Josepli S. Cain KiuK .Mil.-- It , .li-r- . ...,„! ..v,.„.,.,|
Isaacs Bern, di.«e. as private, term exp Kr.niey Cm . \ . : l-i- -...,. .Ii.l
TliomasC Haskins.pris. war.wa- K-ilM of wound-) i\,j , i i
whil.-altempIimrt.M'seape .M:,r.9, '14 Lively Isi.a. \ h , jj-.i
Nfls.iii UI.!arner,V.-I..M.ci..llv.4.'.o.Sir LvKari;.-!- s.,n,u I, \ . • , M .) .1,', I,.,:,
LukeM.SIireusbetn.N I M'l.lvl. ... b^'l' ':'>-■:• W., V.t-, si.-k at nuilta-
.\u.l. J. Seliainilli..rn \ . I Mi' 1% 1 i ". n - _ i, T.-iin
.lolni IiS.'lio.ilcri.li, n. 1 M ., II i,.j I,n ;■ I .:.r N , M. O. July 4 ISfij
Saiimel F. .\ndei>..ii, .li^r n. i, :. i-i.j. Li\ ■ l\' \\ iMiatn C. M, disc. December
■ :i:!. I.sill, disability
XnticMn. Maun J.jlin A., Vol., M. 0. July 4, ISO,',.
Henrv Gousemnnn \et M O Ilv 4 'rji Montgomery Alieek, disc ; term exp
llenrj oousemann,\ . t., .y. (J. Jlj 4, Oo M.mtr.n- J..hn, Vet., M. O. .lulv 4, 18';5
p,i,„^_ 1 M.-n:,r,[Arm..,nil|...V,.t,M n.-.Iy.lT,' "
Ml-
Arney Alex, Vet. CorpUickBeaufort,S.C .M.-c.-i k ii.i i-n n. I h-.- inn-i
Adni-v Alfred, dis. Jan. 3, l8C3,to enlist M.-Kn \ .b.hii .ii-,- i. rm . xi.ir. .1
in .-Slis-s. Marine Brigade N,cli,,l..s l,aa. , r;i,.>l.-r..l ,.,i. ,1, Iv 4, 65
Agermeyer Pliilip, Vel.,M. O. July 4, P..rt.-rJam
I89i (as KBgernieyer, Philip) Purt.s Ambi
An.lers.in Jae.ib.Vet., M.O.July 4, 18C,i, Put,., Pi-iie
as 1st Sergeant Pcnv, William C.
BuniKart Charles, disc ; term expired Perk'ius H..rati.i, Vet., M. O. Julv 4, '0.',
Brown James W., Vet., mustered out Pieket Heel, Vet ,mustereil .lut Jv4, 'liS
July 4, 18CW, as Corporal , Rickets Beiiiamin, disc, term expired
Brewer Tli..aias .1. Kiioy i>;>,rj.l;. di.-.l .biuiuirv I, 1h'-,2
Badekerl-i, , ■ ■ 1> ,V. l V. O. Jy. 4,'C5 .Steinirl ri,.,i,„,- I: . \ -t . i.uislnred out
Brookin.\ ■ r '-^ \ . i Jnlv 4. |m.,, ,- -. ■ j. ml
BradleyJ- 1'. I i >'. Jl, '02disblty Sniilf. 'I'li .in .- l \~i M . i .Ily. 4. '0.1
C.wbin J..I.I., I.. . .. ■Iin..|(;ity , Smid. Il.iu v . , \ . i , M. ■ . .liilv 4, 180J
CharlesJ..l.i.A,.ii~. .1 . i.. ls,-G-J, disblty Smith iMvi.i, .li>.-. : terni expii-'ed
Crawfonl Jaiiu-s H, .lis,-. .March 4, Wa San.lers .l.ihil K., Vet., killed at Rocky
Carmoody Michael, accid.MitAliy killed ' Fa.-e Mt (ia Mayo 18.'-,4
Sept. ;!il, I8il:i Shrewsbury M.i.se.s A., absent on de-
Crisler (Jeorge W., Vet., mustered out tached service at M. O. of liegt
July 4, 18l», as Sergeant i Shrewsbury Samuel, Vet., died at Jef-
Craig, J.iseph ; fersonville. Ind
Craig, William ' Tatfe Peter, Vet., killed at Bentonville,
Clitf..i.l luMiiinebam, .[,•:(•.■. term exp N. C, March 21, IsGi
Crili.ii .. -1 I I :. 1 ,\.i. Ii. .lofwounds , Uhlers George W., disc: term expired
"■ - 'I ' '■ ' Wntt J..hn <:., .lisi-.Fet)T,l»02:.lisal.ltv
Ii> 1-'. M .1. July4,'C5 , Witcraft Wm. H., Vet, M. O. Julv 4 '1,5
Ii.iul.ii I .III -- I.-. I .:. .., 1803 West George W., die.l at Moun.lCitv
Kmers.jii Kih rt ,s , \ ,■[ Williams Columbus, died Feb. 1, 1862
Emerson Ldward R., Vet., M. 0. Jy 4, '03 Wollseii William, disc; term expired
27
Biirk- William, disc October I, 1802 . McDonough .lames, M. o. Julv 4. 1805
B.-L'L-:iiii..iiSimon. mustered out Jy4,'0o Malney Franklin, M. t). .May ilo, laiii
August, .killed July 18 at | Pi.-ket J..liii»o , died April 17, 1804, at
R.I
-ill.-.
istered out 1 (Juilmiier Willii
Uiirige Henrv, mils
I July 4, '05 Spigl.-s Fritz, kilu
lime 21, '0.S ' .lune-2-l, 1804
Ke
Mt.
av20, isr.4;disablty
""-■■'- I i"i. .1 ..ill jiiiv 1, .... H . ir \v iih .,.,, \ . 1 , .11, 'd of wounds Kt
Hii.-i.i - M... ... i.,| ,..;! ,I„K I i,, K ... ..., M, ,h,,„..J7, 1804
biil.'li Ii .ii i .ii Ii .■] ii l; i--. i'l. ... , W .;.i I: i|i. ... i. .|-I..r,.,lout Julv4.'()i
■M..I1 i- .1 ..'.ii. I'i 1- ..1..1 -lii. .- \..i J .. i.l W .,;, ,, W illi.i,,, - , .M O. July 4, 180.5
M..rrisSi.i,m,-H-,, niust..ie,l..iil .ly.l.'i,:, W.t,.! .I,.s..pli, .lle.l .lauuiiry 12, 1805 at
.MillerClmrlcs W., mustered out Jy.4,'0j I ^avall^all, Ua
TWELFTH INFANTRY.
( Three Yeirs Scrvim. )
This regiment was mustered into service for three years,
August 1st, 18G1. It was organized at Cairo, where it re-
mained until Septemb.'r .ath, IjOl, when with Ninth Illinois
Infantry, it moved up to and occupied Paducah, where it
remained until February Sth, 1802. With the Ninth and
Forty-first it formed McArthur's Brigade that fought so
bravely on the 15th of February at Fort Donelson. It took
part iu the battle of Shiloh, and fought nearly the entire
two days. It also assisted in the siege of Corinth, which be-
.gau April S.'Stli, 1S02. In the battle of that place,
October .'!d and 4th, it playeil a gallant part, losing
in killed, wounded and missing, one huiulrej and
twelve men. From this time forward till January 10th,
1864, the regiment was occupied with miscellaneous duties.
At that date its members re-enlisted as veteran volunteers.
The fir.-t engagement the ngiment pirticipated in was
Lays's Ferry and Rome Ooss Roads, loth, 14th and 13th of
May. On the 27 ih of that month it assisted in rejiulsing a
heavy night attack on Dallas. In the battle of Bald Knob
and Decatur, July 22d, it lost thirty-five or forty men iu
killed and wounded. During the month of August it was
closely engaged in the siege of Atlanta, losing some forty
men. October 5th it engaged in the battle of Allatoona,
losing fifty-seven men in kille I an. I wo'jnded out of one
hundred and sixty-one that carried muskets into the fight.
Oa the 11th of November it started on the memorable
" march to the sea." From January 10th, 18G5, to March
24th it accomplished a distance of six hundred miles, leav-
ing Atlanta on the former, and arriving at Goldsboro, North
Carolina on the latter date. It was mustered out of service
at Louisville, Kentucky, July lOih, 1865.
TWELFTH INFANTRY REGIMENT.
( Thre-e Years' Service.)
MUSTEK KOLL C0.MPAN1' R.
P, ivaU.- Anderson, Thoma-s S.
MEN PROM PERRY COUNTY.
, Resigned June 10, 18C2, Re-entered ser-
MUSTEK KOLL, COMl-AXV F.
Mustered out, July 10, 1805.
flfcmite— Hecslcy, William Hony, Daniel Miller, Frederick
MUSTEK KOLL CO.Ml'ASV G.
Captains— Guv C, Ward, died Oct. 4, 180-2.
William Shannon, declines. Lost an arm. Canceled.
Robert G. Thompson, mustered out July 10, 18C.5.
/irsl Lieuftnaa s— John Hall, promoteil Capt. 4tll V. S. Heavy Art.
John Patterson, mustered out July 10, 1805.
Stcond Lieutenants— }ohn F. Watkins, resigneil Sept. 10, 1802.
Ja.son J. Sanburn, term expired Aug. 1, 1804.
.Serjca«(5— Norton W. Campbell.
Robert Q. Thompson, veteran, promoted Sorgt., then 1st Lieut.
Frank W' Campball, mustered out Aug. 1, 18C4.
CurporaU — John Thornwell, discharged Jan. 1!), t8o;j.
William H. Hicks, died Oct. 4, 1802. Wounds.
210
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
I>!\fav
nlti
IVl.f.rn mn
CillllS
11. \V"l 1
Willii
;. l.i" ii. M
out Auk- 1,1864.
■ \ (.ut Allh'. 1, 1*14.
, 1, imil
Tho
> Eii.li
.1,1 .UlK. 1, IW.l.
. Miintli (U-t. ;i, 1862.
.linif i;ri,l«l>2. Wounds.
.J M.Br.
Petfi- Ck-iii.v, kllk>l lU bliileli .April 6, 18112.
M«ida«— Augustus Price, died July U,lsfi2.
Miilctim Staubouse, Jr., vet., killed at Atlanta ,7uly 22, 18W.
Wnjouer— Abr.'xiiaiii Stiiuvbi idge, vet , mustered out July 10, ISOJ.
Pli«al£»- Andrea?, Alfred T.. pn.m..tedCom. Sergt. M.
Ambrose. Levi P.,killeil al Corinth Oel. 4, 186i
liroun .I•.lnle^^ t'.. dis.b;o L-eil .Ittll. lO.lSUa.
n li.r, N.in Feb. 15,1862.
Baelin.
BluU, II.
\V.
ily21,1800. Pris. War.
Ml .liily 10, 1SC5.
iiVisMi', Ullli.uii, kill.. I .It .MLiotaJuly :i2, 18C1.
Bovle lliiuli v t ,li-.li;ot;.,l .May 14,1804. Wonnds.
follin'r- Ml. l,".„l. kill. ih,t Slii!..li April r.,18C2.
Child.-.l 111 iM"plieil.',.ii..liioi.'ed July 10, 1862.
Campbell, Haiuian ' "
- y, Vincent H
l)u
, SiK
eneb, Uieli;
Holennil.. P.. I
Herb.ii. Will
d, V
t Aug. 1,1804.
isl.i.a ..lu .Inly 10,1805.
vat.. Ml . mustered out July 10,1805, as Sergt.
,m~t, v.-.l out .lulv 10, 180,% as Sergt.
1 IIII1-1..1-...I nut .lulv 10, lS0.'i,as tjorporal.
L,'!l. .1 ;.t .\tlillilii.lury22, 1804,
-I.., ...I ..111 July 10, l»o;i, as Corporal.
.,1 s..i,t
, ls02.
Hood, Samuel .1., mustered out July 10, 1865.
Healey, John S_ mustered out May 11, 1865.
s,Jobn, died April 24, 1804.
Kennedy, James, 'disehargert Feb. 15, 1803.
•d'y, Lawrence, diseliai
,rged Oct. 11,1862. Wounds,
eiiy', Patrick, d'ied April 28, 1802.
Ltinzee, tJharles F.
Letler, Thomas, discharged Sept. 14, 1802.
Martin, Cliavles, mnstered out Aug. 1, 1804.
Milem. Jessie, vet.
McCarlv, Dennia.
MeConnell, Brian, liisrharged Jan.. \1863. . , . , , ,^,
>IeDoii..iii:li 1.1 M. I .11.11, Alexander, mustered out Aug.l,l81i4.
McAIill.n .I'lii- - n ...I Dec. 8, 1801.
HIcMill. ii' K..I . . . -Iiiloh, April 6. 1803.
Meliuii. F.l" v: I I ' - I .\pril 28. 1802. Disability.
McLav .l'..hii kill. .1 ..1 ' . iiiiiliOct.3,1864.
Me Lay! Willi. on. .Ii- h.n f. I loly 5,1803. Disability.
Nailer.'ll.iiiv, 111I1-1..1...I ..Mt .Vug. 1,1864.
Neelei, .l..liri II , .li. .1 'olN 21. 1803.
Ols.
Par-.. 11- 1 ' 1
Putl.'i-. .. I '.
Park..!, I . M l:
Quillui.ui.r. 1. 1
lJuine,Jolui..ii
Kichmond, Mill
Koe, Robert! ,
Boe, rlo.rl..- II
Rnviii..,..!. I. .
Rid. 11. .. , ' : I
Sterling, .loliu K., miisl. i. ,1 .
Swaffonl, James, vet , kill. .1 :
8milb,J..s..i.li,M-t.. kilL.l :o
lo 1802. Wounds.
1 i.il\- 10, 1805.
. :,. s.rgt.
{i.„.'lo, 1804.
Wounds,
uged July 31,1802. Wc
.111 lulv 2,<.1.m;4.
, .lulv 2^.1S1j4.
.1 il li. 1.S02.
ii;. •.;:., 1804.
Thomas, Will
Thomas, Dav
Weaver, Henry F.
. Int'l. Todd. John.
;. I. .1 ..ut July in, 1805,as Sergt.
1 \it '. 21, 1802. Wounds,
nd out May 31,1805.
. Vug. 1,1805.
1 lis, 1804.
.1 uui May 31, 1865.
Weeks.'Hcni-y, vet., killed at Allntoonn.Oct. 5,1804.
Welgamood, George, mustered out Aug. 1, 1804.
While, Price B., musli-red ..ut luly 1", 1805.
Wright, .John, ilu-i. i. i '.
Willmans, ii.l. I 1 .1 i .
Wanzer, Jam. - i i . -
Ward.F.b.-u.... . '■■ ■!
. 214, 1»14,
I II. 1802.
Ill 0, 1802.
-ifi. u. s.f. r.
d out July 10, 1805.
iiided at Corinth, supposed dead.
1 S,.pt 28, 1804. Wounds.
1 1. ,1 ..III July 10,1805.
.' .1 ' tl\- 10, 1805,as Corpl.
, 1. I. :i 111 July 10, 1805.
ii.. 1 ...11 July 10,1805.
«iii 1. 1 i.,..ner, mustered out July 13, J8C5.
Treleaven, John, corporal, muslered out Sept. 14, 1805.
Vnaaignid Becmiis-Camphell John, mustered out July 18, 1805.
JEecmifo— Bighu
Chilli
Hill,
Hunt
Stanli
Sniilb, Wil
Dunn, William.
Davis, John.
FOURTEENTH INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Service.)
The regiment was first called into State service for thirty
days under the " Ten Eegiment Bill," and was mustered into
service May -ith, 1861. On the 2.5th of the same month it
was mustered into the United States service for 3 years by
Capt. Pitcher. After an honorable term of service it was
mustered out at Fort Leavenworth, Kansas, September 16,
1865, and received final payment at Springfield, September
22, 1865.
MUSTEU ROLL CO.MPANY G.
OTpomk — John Kelley, mustered out, Sept. 16, 1805.
JViuatfa— Baven, George G.. mustered out, Sept. 10, 1805, as Corpl.
Chapman, Wm.H. Johnson, Harmnn.
Kirtner, David H., discharged July nth, 186.5. Dis.-ibility.
Noel, Jackson. Oilman, George, mustertd out Sept. 10,1865.
Bauds, John H.
MUSTEK ROLL COMPANY U.
Pi-ii..i/c»~Sno\v, Corydon, P. M. O., March 8, 1805 for promotion as 1st Lieut.
mustered out Sept. 10, lso.».
EIGHTEENTH INFANTRY
{Three Years' Servire )
The Eighteenth Infantry Illinois Volunteers was orga-
nized under the Ten-Regiment act, at Anna, Illinois, and
mustered into State service for thirty days, by Captain U.
S. Grant, May 16th, 1861. It was mustered into the United
States service May 28th, 18 1. It participated in the three
days' battle at Fort Donelson, losing fifty men killed and one
hundred and fifty wounded. April 6th and 7th it was en-
gaged at Shiloh, and there acquitted itself with great brave-
ry. It was present at the siege of Corinth. After these bat-
tles Companies H and C were so reduced in numbers that
they were consolidated with the remainder of the regiment,
and in the fall of 1862 two new companies were raised at
Carbondale, by Captain A. Connor. December, 1863, the
regiment began service in the dejiartraeut of Arkansas, com-
manded by Major General F. Steele, being stationed prin-
cipally at Pine Blufi', Duvall's Bluff and Little Eock, and
was engaged in numerous campaigns and expeditions. It
was mustered out of service, December IGth, 1865, at Little
Rock, Arkansas.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
Ml'STER ROLL COMr,\SY .^.
Oi/itii'i.— Paul T I.n. » i.roi .\|. ires 1804.
Coruoruf.— Levi M i- Imrgcd May 8, 1802.
Wah.i I . nlid at Shiloh.
John I 1 1,-, barged June 18,1802. Wounds.
Privn^fs— Cochran. I .. .^.|
Kirkw I W ill'ini. .ii.-.niiii-.li in.isi,.'. Woiind.s.
Little S.i l..l,..-l..iL.. .1 N..V ;. IM.J. Wounds.
Tinkl.T, Ki.'.l. ink W il.l.i man. i liaili's.
Wineli..st..r, \ .1.. kill. ..I at \|. .in|. Ins .liui. 24, 180.3.
EIGHTEENTH INFANTRY REGIMENT— (REORGANIZED.)
{Three Years' Service.)
Snrgeom—EUe} F. Henderson, declined. Commission canceled.
MUSTER ROLL COJIPASY A.
Pri.af,»-Barrow, Flavins J., Transf. from Co. C., mustered out Jul.v 8th, 1865.
Killian William F., transf. from Co. C, mustered out July 8th, 1865.
Stone, fmby C, transf. from Co. C, mustered out Jul.y M'. }>"'•■•■
Stone, William H., transf. from Co. C, mustered out July 8th, l»6i..
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY B.
P.-i™(<..— Longhery, William G., mustered out Dec. 10, 1805.
iie<:ruib-—Hogskiss', George, mustered out Dec. 10, 18t5.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY F.
PriValc— Eichell, Henry.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY I.
Prirale— Hammer, Leander P., mustered out Dec. 16, 1805.
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
NON COM.MISSIONED STAFF.
Pfinniiiil Musician.— Vi'm. McPherson, mustered out Dec. 10th, 1865
MU.STER ROLL, COMF.\NY B.
First iimt'iKin;.— Alfred W. Wright, mustered out Dec. 16th, 1865
Corm^nh -George Morris, mustered out Dec. loth, 1805 as Pvt
i>rraT« -Golden, George, died at Little Bock, Oct. 13, 1«65
y, ivam. 'I^^^fj^-j.^^ t i, _ di,.,, „j ijttie Rock, Aug. 20, 1865
Thompson. William T., died at Little Rock, May 14, 1805
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY C.
PriDalCT.— McDonald, Angus, mustered out Dec. 16th, 1865
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY D.
Privote -Cheney, Nelson W., mustered out Dec^ 10th 1865
Currant, Georga, mustered out Dec 16th 1805
Howaid, William W., mustered out Dec. loth, 1805
Ley, William, absent sick ot M. O. of Regt
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY B.
Prita(e.— Beard, Anton P. G., mustered out March 15th, 1866.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
211
TH[RTIET1I INFANTRY. — MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
{Three Years' Service.)
MISTEK KOI.I., COMPANY E.
Bftruit.—StiMan, I),ivi.l H., dio.l ilt AlUnta, Ga,, Nov. 8th, 1804
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANV H.
V 'pliii
MUSTER ROLL, COMI'ASV A.
PS llftirH, resiKiied November ifTth, 18iil.
James S. (.-niii:, kill.-.l in hadle.
First i.riife.ja.i/.— Alex;., i.r M. Hr .iv.i, ilieil February Cth, 18a
Second Ltmln'inl — \Uu m '. K. I-.,, resigned Aug. ;jlst, ISiii
AVyeanta-.— Willi. irii II W. -'., \. : . t;ill
J . 1.1 s r I,,,,, 1 I li. June 22J, 18a2; disability
J.ihii Kirk" i ■ I. Ii" I M.ir, I th, 18m,- wouuds
Co porn/j.— liilb.rl H. KKiiu 1^ .lie.i Aug. *ilh, Isiil
.S iinu -I 1". Anii-ii- Ml'.', killed, Ft. 1) )nel9on, Feb I.Hh, 1852
Nat ■■Hu ,s. Weeka, l(ill.-.l. Ft. Uonelsou Feb. 15, ISlii
S I u 1 I B. I. -^Iie, .lied :? -pt. jtn, U'^
Miu'ehii. — Francis Yeariau
Prieatca. — Ayer, .\ndrew.
Bonus, Thomas, Vet, Tr. to Co. B as re-organiicd.
n.ilUri.i,-.-, .I.>se|)h
•d. Ft, Dunelson, F,-b. 15th, 18C2
ch. .Mav 8th, 180-2; disability
— Brnvn, Henry S.
\[r- ,■-.'■ H-.l: ll-al.ilitv
!'■■■ ■ - < I'-^.'.ility
Carson, .Sil..-, i - ii. I' . i :... I' ■ l . ili-..^ility
C«ri;.in, J.isp.T, V.-t. Tr toi-., H ;.. r.-.rn.mueil, M. 0. Dec. IGth as
1st Sergeant Cliappal, John I'ro. S.-rnt
Davis, William A., killed at Clifton, Tenn., .Ian. 2d, 18r,3
Kale, Jam 's Vet. tr. to Co. B as re-organized. Died at Pine Bluff,
Ark., Nov. I7th, 18M
Elliott, Hiram B., Vet., tr. t<i Co. 6 as re-organized died at Litle
KoL-k, Ark., S-pt. Ifitil, liHl
Gordon, K ibert H , killed at Clifton, Tenn .Jan. 2d, ISM
Gladson, J-iel W. GmIT, Fran -is, pp.m .ted Corporal
Green, Albert J., Vet tr. t.) C... B as re.orK*nizfJ .M. O. Dec. IGth,
18.i--. H •rbison,Sjmiiel, iliseh. M;iy ir.th, lsi;u disability
Hum-^ihiev, H.n-a B, killed at Fl. iJ.uels.u, F.-b 15th, ISGJ
J.'in. •!, Ill F.disch. .Mav 8th, 18iii
Jii i: ' i I li-i-li lie.-, isth, ISOl; disability
. Feb. 15th, 18G5
Ki . ,, !; m M. wounded at Ft. D)
K;u..,i .. U .l.^.i;i. B-, I'l-om ited Corpl., th<u Ser,jt
Kin/.arv, Jaiii-j< C, w )unded at Ft U.inelson King, George
King, thaddeus L., dis.-h. Uec 18th, laiil ; disability
Longhrey, William G , Vet. tr. to Co. B as re-organized, M.O.Dec.
I.ith, 18l>.i
McKuight, Samuel, killed at Ft. Dinelson. Feb. lith, 18G2
Kamsay, Nathan, diseh. .M.ay 15th, 18G2; disability
Rial, Ja
Steel,
Willi!
vrus J., died at Anna, III., Julv 121 h, 1801
's, Thoma-. E., killed at Ft. Donelsoii, Feb. 15th, 18G-2.
Wheatelv, Mir.leMi, Jr. Wright Nathaniel A.
Whitaker, Jamjs Vet tr. to Co. B as re-oi-ga lized M. O. Djc. 16, I8G5
Y ..ung, Absaluni M , died Feb. 18th, 18G2: wounds
iii««.— Bartlesiin, William, tr. to Co. B as re-nrgantzed M. O. July 7th, 1854
lin.wii, Henrv, iliseh. Julv lid, ISCl : disability
Dii-u, Amu-tiw, tr. to Co. B as re.i.rganized M. 0. Julv 7th, 18G1
Gladson, lo.biia L. Gordon, William G. Neal, John N.
Tayl.ir. William H. H.
Tnompson, William F., V.-t. tr. to Co. B as re-organized. Died at
Little K.>ck, Ark., May 14th, 18G4
MUSTER ROLL, COMPAXY D.
1, George, tr. to Co. B as re-organized M. 0. Dec. IGth, lar..';
Rensche, Frank A., tr. to Co. B
D.!pt. 18.i5
-Page, Jerome, tr. to Co. H as re-orgaaized M. O. July 7th, 18G4
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY E.
-B'.ak', William H., tr. t)C>. B a. re-.r^iniz.d M. O. July 4th, isr,4
Pr--- .*.,.id. Cullin, tr. to Co. B as r.>-i.ri:a'iize,i M. i). Julv 7th, 1304
Kii— II, Wm., tr. to Co. B as consolidal.-.i M. n. .lulv -th'. 1804
Wnt'l.t, Alfred W.,Vt. pro. Isl Lielll. ~..nsoli,lal.-.l M. O. Dec. ICth,
l.Mw Wright, William, disch. Mav 18th, IHM; wounds
re-organized pro. 2d Lieut M. 0.
MUSTER ROLL, COMPAXY F.
Barnil— Williams, Milton, tr. to Co. C as consolidated M. O. Dec. IGth, 1865
Vctrran. — Sharp, John, tr. to Co. C as co
O. Dec. 10th, 18J5
nsoliduted pro. Principal Musician M.
F.r«l LieulenM
S*rgftHl. — Fl:i
tbrprti-.il. —ii I
3f.«i<-i.l.u,-M
l>.-tcu4i«.— Gill
.1 ir
MUSTER ROLL. COMPAXY I.
iilan, resigned Julv Ist, 18G1
I 1 ison, disch Djc.iuth 1802; disability
IGth, 186J
MI- M ■' ,11 V John Brundage, died at Little Rock Dec. rid, 18G.1
. . .1 . \ ,1. woun.led at Ft. 1) inelson tr. to Co. C as consolida-
e.i .\l. I', 1 loth, 18I-.5 Uarbaugh, Cornelius, Vet. tr. to Co. C
as e..iisi.li.l,u.-.l Harill, Thomas
McCullogh. i;re.-n IS, V.-t.tr. to C'o. C as consolidated died at Lit-
tle Rock, Ark. Aiis. LItb, 1805 Olden, John
Pinnegar, H. J., Vet. Ir. to Co. C as consoli lated M. O. De
Sharp, Tlnmias, .lisoh April :toth, 18J3; disability
Sloan, J.N. Sheph-Tj, James F. Shepherd, William P.
fi.-£ruit.— Mago, Jesse, disch. Jan. -2!lth, 180;}
MUSTER ROLL, COMPAXY K.
iWo4i<!iaii.— Henry Starr, disch. Aug. ICth, 18G2; disability
Prirofe.— Thomas B Kelly
UmMigned J^cru^t.— Sutherland, John T.
TWENTY'-SECOND INFANTRY'.
{Three Years' Service.)
The regiment was organized at Belleville, May II, IHfil,
and mustered into United States service at Casej'vilic, Illi-
nois, by Captain T. G. Pitcher, June 2.5, 18G). November
7th, seven companies participated in the battle of Belmont,
Missouri, there doing duty in guarding trans(Kirts. In this
engagement one hundred and forty-seven were lost in killed,
wounded and missing. 11 conuuitered through Missouri
under Gen. Grant, .January 14, l.*i6i. Assisted at Tipton-
ville, to intercept the enemy retreating from Island Xo. 10,
capturing many prisoners and a large quantity of stores,
ammunition, arms, etc. Was engaged in the battle of
Farmington, May 9, 1862 and in tiie siege of Corinth. En-
gaged in the battle of .Stone river December 31, l.S(i2, and
the following two days losing one hundred and uinety-
nine men out of three hundred and forly-two engaged.
Early in June, 1.SG3, marched southward with the army of
the Cumberland. Participated in the bat le of the Chicka-
mauga, September lUth and 2i)tli, under (Jen. Sheridan,
sustaining a loss of one hundred and thirty-five officers and
men out of less than three hundred that went lo battle
November 2t)th, with the remainder of Gen. Sheridan's
division, was engaged in the storming of Mi.ssouri Kidge,
losing over thirty men out of the mere remnant of which
the regiment consisted. In the month of January, 1.H64,
the few remaining men fit for duty, marched to Dandridge
in pursuit of Gen. Longstreet's army, retreating to Straw-
berry Plains. Marched thence to Louden, Tennessee, and
there received the first full rations, for si.^c months past.
Was engaged for two days at Resaca, having about twenty
men killed and wounded. July 7, l.HGl, all except the re-
cruits and veteran-i, wjre nmstered out of service at
Springfield, lUinois. The balance were consolidated with,
the Forty-second regiment.
illy;
Julv 7, 1304
.). Julv 7, 1,S04
o. J lily 7, 1804
M,,.li(
12. '62
' Sloata.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
LintlrnaHl Coljnel. I S*fnml Asa'nlanl SiirgfOH.
unwick, term exp July 7,'C4 I Isaac W. Brown, term exp. J
NON-COMMISSIOXED STAFF.
Sertjeaut jlf.jvr.— Samuel Gait, n
HoiiitiU Str-uiiii-rf.— David T. Brown,
Piincipat JlfiMicia/i.— Jacob Matthew:
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY II.
vill. rcsig. Feb. 8, 18G4 I Amler-^'n It
erm exp. July7, 1864 ) An.b-i- ■• I i,
Li'iit.-il'iHt.
"V.'ma Ai^. :-.. Ij-a
Brown. . I I 1-.
Briugs De Wilt C, died at Mound City
Nov. 7, 1801
Bair.l, J.ilin L., M. O. Julv 7, 18G4
Harth.ilman August, di.sc. o.-t. 16,1862
Baird Robert G., M.O Jnly7, 181.4
Bagaman Augustus, trans, to 42d 111.
Inf. Corpl trans, to U. S. Vol. Engiirs
Aug. A, 'Gl
Cal.lwell Joseph W., M. O. Julv 7, 1864
Cochran Samuel B., killed at Mission
, Nov. 2.-., I8g;i
<l Samuel J., Vet. ti-.ins, to C.).
Dec. IG as Serg.-ant
xp. July 7, 1804 j
Martin Irelaud, term
Second Linttenatit.
Wesley R. Graves, resig. March 10, 1804
Serijeantt.
William C. McKee, M. O. July 7, 1804
James Dyer, killed at Farmington,
Miss., May 9, '62
CorporaU.
Myron Camp, disc. July 1!>, 1862
. killed at Fa
died at Bird's
. to 1st III. Cav
July 2.'., 18G1
Robert C. Mann, died Oct. 2, 18G3i
wounds
July 7, 1804, as
Ge'irge W. Saylor,
Wdliam J. Ammour, trans, to 1st 111
Cav. Julv -r., 1801 ,, , „ ,
James U. Couch, M.O. July 7, l»Gl,.is lou.-li H.>1
Serg
Zachariah Wright, tin
Ridgi
Crawfoi
B. 4-2, M.
Coiuinn, James
Cecil Pins 1!. J., .lied at Padu.ali, Kv.,
I.-., 1802
eii.l.-u Fl
.!/«•;
M 111
.. E, 51.
. M. O. Julv 7. 1S64
,-.-l. ll-Aiis. t.'. 1-2.1 111.
as l..ipl. Ibis. War
Will.iini
inil.-l. .lise
William, .:
212
HISTORY OF RANDOLFH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Dean John, d
Eder Joliu A.,
18U2
EUminston Robert, M. O. .Inly 7, l«r.4
liatea Charles, Vet. trans. iM III.,M. O.
Dec. li;, l«ii.i
Gadbois, Joseph
Haley Charles H .died in Andersonville
Sept. 30, 18W. No. of grave
Ha" '
Ha
.loll)
William.- William, died in Anderson-
ville Sept. Ill, Ihlit. No. of grave, 8,:ilU
Wright I.«nac N., disc. July 1:1, 181iJ
Wooley George, liisc. Dec. 14, I8lj2
Wiltshire Walter J., disc. Jan. 16, 186'2
Recruits.
Allen Nathaniel P., died March lo.isra ;
wounds
Bart"ls Peter, with Vet. dct. 22 111. 4
Havvkllrno.I, M. O. Jilly7,18G4 cli:
Heiidtrson Beechvr B., died at Farm
ington, Miss., July 20, IsiiJ.
Hleff; John " r h 11
Henson Hermann D. A., M. O. Jy 7, '04 .In,,., l.
Ireland John J., di.se. Jan. ic, 18G2 I ItmtL'lM-^
Jones John R. S., died ai Bird's Point
Feb. 14, 1«62
Jaclvober Rudolph, disc. March in, 1804
Kettel Chiules, M. (1, Jnlv 7. 1864
Livelv Hi. l.-i..! K , V.>t. ifans. to 42 111.
Langh.il . V.I.I' II .il utBird's Point, .li
. to 4Jd 111.. M. 0.
i.iral
42.1 111, M
I>|„lL■lH-^,-:,l^.|.•l B., t
(). .lour 17, I6i..i
Dailv James,
Daily Charle
111, 1SI-.5
Gli..t.r Louis H , trans, to 42 111., M. O.
Mo
111.
, M. O. Apr. 7,'fi.'i; pris wa
McK., Ill II 1 :|il , died at Big
Sprniu- .liri. J.i. l.M.j
Miison, .lohii E.
Ii.li.ii.l Will) mi Henry H., with Vet.
K III! , 1 1 ill killed at Chickamauga
Montrov John, trans, to V. Ti. fi.
McHonVv .Fames, M. 0. April 20, 1»C5,
1 1 ^ ^l . .lisc. June7, 1802
Pris. War
Mill 1- M . 1. 1, with Vet. det. 22 III.
McDonal.l Andrew J., disc. Jnlv 13, '6 ■
4 A, 1 ■.
Newman William, died January 10, 186.!
Mnrlen Richard B S.,died .at Farming-
wo,mds
t..n, Mass., Julv Hi, '02
Nairell Gu^tav, trans, to 1st III. Cav.
Presslv Robert, trans, to 42 111., missing
Nov. 1, I«i;i
ill -..'ri. •, l:;Iv 111. '04
Parlis Arthur B , .li-.\ June Is, lsf,:l
r, ■ . I; ' t M. trans, to 42 III.,
Pres.^ley lieuKc-n L.kill...! ai..i.l,ul.
1 - IS114 : wounds
allv at Ch.-xiiiiii'. r-' •'■ t. li. 1m,.i
1', 1 - , , 1. 1 W., tr.to42Ill.,M. 0.
Poornmo An^.'l K , .lit-.l ul wounj.s Uc:t.
1 , . 1 ,. 1 ..
23, l»i.:i
1 . , 1; i II 1 .hsc. April 23,1803
Reynol.l. s U nlt.-i , Use. Oct. 3, 1863
1: , 1 1 - T.. with Vet. delaeh-
SulliiHii .I..I11. 11 . M 0, July 7, lKli4
1 . ■,■ . li 1 .\. C.
Sieglil...i I'Miinniil M , trans, toV.R.C,
>i, \ 1 ■ . ■ -
Scott Ni.iiii.iii.l, M •< ,liiK 7, lMi4
,-h III \i il i , ri ,11s, to Co. I, 42d III.,M.
Swan .I..I111 1' ,.ii-. >. pt J, Iv. J
1 1 1),., ll. Is.,',
Shafer ,l.ili:i li , M " .luU 7, 1m4
Si-.i-.i:!, u'llliHiu H,.with Vet. det, 22
Sanders . 1,1,11. , u , .li^,. -,.,,, ',, isr.i
III .4 \ r
Schwartz Kiuil. .li..l at Chattanooga
Tinn.T Williniii B. died at Murtrees-
June 4. IMil
l.,.ri. .Ilaich 21, 1803
Thorn .I..I.1. B, :M i i. Julv 7, 18r,4
Turner Hi.iiard M., with Vet. det. 22d
White 1 ah 111 1',, 51. 1 1. Julv 7, 1864
111, 4 A. I-.
Walter Louis, disc. Dec. 1, 1802
Williams Andrew T., disc. Apr. 27, 1803
MUSTEK EOl
L COJirASY I.
CnpdMiis,— John A. Deitricli, resit-neiT J
larrh ll.lsi-i2.
Milton .\. Fi.-nrl,, ,lj, ,1 ,.| ,.
i;ii ;- ■;. 1 ■.•iiii..'i :7.isG3.
Sauiuel H. 11 i. Li ' . 1
' ,' "1-1
riV8(Iini((iiioi(i.— Hiit'h < M.I.I
-, isr.2.
Willuuii 1- \i ,1. ' 1-
1 ■ 7, 180,1,
Serowl Lieiile 1 -1: 1 . -HI
::. . i iiilier 14,1801.
firxl S<T5r.o.(.— 11. 1.; v -: 1 -
, 1 .. . . • . 1 -,,-j
Serytauh.—Vllil. x II i ,
.' 1, 1 SOT : wonnds.
I!. .I.V.I 1 I'll: • -1
1-1 as First Sergeant.
Corporali.—V. ill ' I
Ja 1 M. ' 1 . i . ■ , 1
,"' '■'•■' 1 '1.4. as Sergeant.
' .'. 1 ' •• 1 1. . -i.J ''.l:-al.llitv.
K'litii-i I'.i ■ , ■ . 1 ,' 1,
r ' \ 1 1 .'■', I.M.I ,
Jfusicmii.— Thuiii 1 Ml
• II - >. 11 |"i 111. I.Hr.3.
J^-iBuies.— All.-i. 1 I-. -. ■ .. .■■• 1 .
.■ . 1 ■ ls.i4; leiiampulated.
Ahm |.. 1 1 .. ■ ; •1,1.
M . h 20,1304; disability.
Boom,. 1 •. ■;
ilv 7,1804.
liovil, !■. . . ■ 1
1 Isrl,
Brn«.i n ,, .. r, .
II 1 ■ 1 M...I September 25, 1803.
Br..>M,' ,.1 ■'-.■. :. .
■ 1 T. ; .' 1
Bum- . . 1
■1 . IS. Cavalry.
Br.mi. 1. . 11. : 1 . 1,1 ;. .1 .,1
Ill 1. n , ,_. , - ;.t,..mber 19, 1805.
Baseoiii. HeliK, ii,u-I..i...i ..
I .liii\ 7, l,s.i4.
ColTal, John, disoliarged to e
ilist ill 4 U.S. Cavalry.
Cair, Patrick.
Carson, Gideon K , mnsfered
out Julv 7. 1804.
Cinilt."'. l!.-.li-rt ,■.:,, ,i.i..l..i-...l
.lit .Ii,lv7, 1804.
Coiili - 1: 11.11- 1
.Ill .lull 7,1804.
Dou^:.. 1 . • .11 y.i- .1
■ ■'1. 1 1. IS02.
Ml '1 11. 1803; wonnds.
Foil"'- \i. , 1
1 iimry 18, bSiiS: prisoner of war.
G.i.l.li.i'l, .l.iM.' ■ II . 1
11 1 -■■ 1, to accept pos. as eont. surgeon
Gil..s..,i. M..XH . ..1 :
s I ..n detached service.
Grav, Willroi , II-. I ,■ - .1 : 1. i-,
Gali"^l:l^. .I'lim m i-nn 1 .•■.: lnl. 7, ISG4.
Gibbons, Benjainiii F , killf.l ;il riiickam.anga September 10,1803.
Humphries, William, died at Buds Point.
Higgerson, James H. died at Bird's Point August 2."i, isr.l.
Jouinegau, Martin, dis. May II, 1862, for wounds received at Ft
ington, Miss-
Kaley, James, mustered out July 7, 1804,
Lynch, John. Lennox, John.
LafTerty, David S., mustered out .Fuly 7, 1S«4.
Lart-
Lu.'k..^
Lewi-.
M.-Huriii
McEl.lrv
Neil, Jan
W,iii>- \..ril ■••t, isiii, fi.r n..iin.ls r I at Stone Rii
.1. .1 I. Ill .III!-, 7, 1,S04,
'.I . r liilv 7.1864.
';i 1' I .niber 31, 1802.
I .1 !■. \ R C.
I 11. Ill I 1:. Twelfth Illinois Infantry.
llsrl,:u^■.■,l u.-oiher 18, 1804.
edout July 7, 1864.
Neil, James S., mustered out July 7, 1804.
P.Tris, .lames c, discharged August 29, 1863; disability.
Iliipp. 1 1, I liiules, mustered out July 7, 1804.
^-k. 1'. ». I'. 1.1.
>,i,l,i 1 i, \ii-tin,mnsteredout July 7, 1864.
^ ... . i.\ , !■. I I V 1' , diseliargeil Julv In. 1802; disability.
1. ! i\,: ,11 11. 1 .,1 r. 11 - I' I.I - 'i.tember lo, 1801.
Ill I .1,1 1 , M <-i. Deo. 10, 1805, as Corporal.
w .■ . I. 1 -. I ll 11 ■ . -.1 .1 . :, IK64.
\\. ■ \.i II- .., \i .• ii-i. .. I . • i . ". is.14.
\s I-.. .1,1 hi I 1 . \ . I I) I. 1 . r ^1 'I 1 - . Ih, 'fi.'.. .'I- I"'. ■! ill. ; wounded
M
. \\ 1
.M , 1 . iiiis, killed at Stone River December 31, 1862.
M 1 I I 1, died at Murfrecsboro.Tenn., March 14, 1863.
K .--, \Mlli..iii .1,, killed at Stone River December 31,1862,
Ti.n is, Bill D, T , trans, from Co. E, 12 III., mustered out July 7, 1864.
Welch, William, trans, to 42 III. Infantiv, mustered out Dec 16, 1865.
Uitasaimeil i?ariii(s,- Conrad, .Michael,
Mann, William B,, tr, to 4i III. Inf., M. O. December 16, 1805^
MEN FROM MONROE COUNTY.
J/.yur— George Abbott, honorably discharged on account of wounds. May 7,1803
NON-COMMISSIONED ST.\FF.
Principal Musician — Vincent Stienier.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY E.
JVi«<ile— Wills, Daniel, killed at Belmont, Mo,, Nov. 7, 1861.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY F.
Oipluins— Hermaiin, B,.riieinann, rc-signc.l Sept. 3, 1803.
r,>,.( L.r . .-'.• i' ■ I '-I '- ll '. . I . ' . . 'I'l "■.■ n'll .Inly T,1SG4,
First Se'-.j. . i -. . I'll' _. I 1. _ ,1' r 1 ;, 1S..J, liisability,
iiei'iycun
Gfoif.. 1;
Carh I.'. \
Corjjwals— Heiin I
Chai I -
Williiiii
John I.
Chrisii
J,lcoli II
Fre.l. I
Slasiciana — Brim.. -
Will ill 1 1
W'lgoiw} — Chail' - 1
. of Regt.
. N..V. 7. 1861,
. 1, lsi-2, wounds,
J. uounds.
7 , I si74, as 1st sergeant.
-Ill,
77, 1802.
Pn
-Ada
Bollet, 1|. .
Behieii.l-,
Bott. .I...iiii
Benkcr, Fi
k\ , at m. o. of regt.
It JUIV7. 1804.
vet., irans. to Co. F. 42 III inny.,n
li' 17. 1S02. disability.
■ I ly 7,1804.
I I at m. o. of regt.
1 Mistered out Dec. 16, 1865.
Bock,
Boe, 1
Bohiii
Henkl.r. 1.
Hetzh.'t.r, 1
Henslii.ii. n
Kellc
K 1-011
Liel.f
.1 M ' . N"i 7, l.siil.
.1 .1 -■ 111.. KiMT riec. 31,1862.
. I. I I- Ml-- Kidge Nov. 25,1803.
I 1 ' I 1-' J, .hs.ll'illt.V.
I 1,1 I ll. 7, 1804. as corporal.
. iiil.v 7, 1804.
■ I • .liiiv7, 1804, as sergeant.
..Ill .lllh 7, l.sOl.
h.im.'.l .M.ir. .J, ISOJ, wounds.
.1 liiK III. isiv:, .lisabilitv.
_' i >l,ir l.\ lsi.:i,
■ liilv 7. Isiil,
■ lillv 7. 1S1-.4.
. al.isent sick at m. o. of regt.
- .pt, 1!), I80:).
M... Xov. 7, 1801.
, , ii.t. 14, ISOl.
V 7. 1S1.4.
noiul, Va., at m. o. of regt.
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
213
Rei(;«-lm.>ior. Willmm. ilisi-lwrg.'d to pnlist in 4 V. 8. Cbv.
f-v>llr].-.l. I'.Mnii.l, iliril iVt. 7, lsi,:l, wounds.
S.lieil..l. (-Ill i>tiiui, inii^t.'iv.l ..iit .Iiilv 7, lsr.4.
.■^.Iinifc/.. .M;.iliui., niu-l,M.-.l out .liilv'7, im.i.
t;.!, nil. It. .lii> ,.!,. kill,-.l ill K.li.H.iii, Si,:. Nmv.7, isr.l.
S.-lin,i.|.. I',-1.M. .ini-t.T-.l oul .liilv 7, l.v .4.
M.. 11^ !■ .. . 1.. I in Mi--i--'ii.|.l riviT July 11, ISGl.
M,. :- - ,-!,•, ,1 ,.,ii .liiiv 7. ISG4.
J- ill I I I. il ,.iil.luly7. 1804.
M I ,11 111 I'l.iiiil, Mil., Nov. 7, 1801.
Ml I I : iiii-li 1. .1 ..in .lulv", ISiil.
Sl..ll..l....Iiii, inil-l,||.-.i ...11 .lulv 7, \>IA.'
SrliulU'ir.^. .\'liuii. i.ris.-uor ol uiir at Kiclunond, Va., at m. o. of regt.
Ts.liincii. J.ihu, ilis,.|iiirif.| ( l -t li., 1S(.1, disability.
\..llc. J..-i-|.li, ill, ..I 111 Si. (lair C.I., 111., Nov. 21, liol.
v.. Hi. Anil. 11, 111.1. l.-i.-.l ...11 .lulv 7, lSi;4.
\Vi-ii,...li. Il.iirv. ii,.i-i.i-.l ..ill .lulv 7. 1S.14.
Wal.lli,.!.. il.ii-n.ii.. ... i-lT.-.l out Julv7, IW'.t.
\\. --. :. I. 11.,^ i;.ii-i.-r.|.l ...It .lulv 7, l<.».
Zi. ". illiaiii, ih.-.l ..l\;..ii)i.U i.-.-.-iv.>.l at Stone Rivcv.
Z. -. Ii.uxe.l M.iivli •., isi.j, «.i mil-.
Kco-iii's-l: II 111 til., li.-lil li.-ar Ai l.u.i.lh. i,,i
> I I . . ihM-llaru'.-.l Al.nl .:!, iM.l. «-.ill..ls.
J Co. i: la III.',
o. Dec. 10, 1305.
Scliu..iii.iiiii, JUniy, I
MKN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
JR-.STEn ROLL COMP.\XY I.
PciraiM— Conner, (icorge W., died in Perry Co., 111., Sept. 4, Isci.
Ui>dv;e, Colin, mustered out July 7, 1804.
TWKSTY-FOURTII INFANTRY.
(Tlircc Yairs' &rvi<\:]
This regiment was organized at Chicago, and nnutered
into service July fS, l.'^Gl, by Capt. T. G. Pitcher, and was
known as the " Hecker Ilegiment."' It did effectual and
gallant service, and was mustered out July ol, 1805, at
Lexington, Ky.
MEN FROM MOUROE COUNTY.
MCSTER ROLL COMP.tSY O.
lUauits. — Kertel, Charles, trans, to hea.lqunrters 14 A. C. for nssignineut.
ML'STKK EOLL C0M1".\NY I.
/.'«ni.7«.— Bergniann, Clinrle-, trans, to hendqimrter^ 14 A. C. for assignment,
ilottiiiau. Christian, ninstered out .Mav :iii, 18I1.1, prisoner war.
KoelI.el, Frank, dis.harged May a7, 18iH : wounds.
Stephan, Joseph, trans, to head.iuarters 14 A. C. for assignment.
TWENTY-NINTH U. S. COLORED INFANTRY.
(Three Years' Service.)
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MISTER ROLL COMPANY A.
Bicriia.— Kowlett, Joseph W., mustered out Nov. 0., ISO.",, as corporal.
MlSTliR ROLL COMPANY B.
2/fcniit.— Laflore, Levi, al sent sick at M. O. of Regiment.
MCSTKR ROLL COMPANY C.
Bccruifc.— Coles, Henry, Morrison, Joseph, mustered out Nov. 0, 1805.
MUSTER BOLL COMPANY D.
BecriiiYj.— Beeson, Baptist, missing in aclinn nt Hntclier's Run, Va , Mar. 3u, 1805.
Joseph, l."rederiik. nm-lered out Nov. 0, 1805.
Louvriere. I'iero, discliarged .Iiine 2, 180.).
Senty, Isadorc, Terraee, John, mustered out Nov. 0, 1805.
MfSTIiR ROLL COMPANY I.
P,i,n(e«.— Block, Levi, Griffin, Joseph, mustered out Nov. 0, 1805.
MEN FROM MONROE COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY I.
Priiutfi.— Scroggins, P. M., vet., Webb, James, mustered out Nov. 0, 1805.
THIRTIETH INFANTRY.
{Three Years service.)
The Thirtieth Infantry was organized at Camp Butler^
Illinois, August 28th, 1861, Colonel P. B. Fouke, com-
manding. September 1st, moved to Cairo and was assigned
to MeClernand's Brigade. November 7th, was engaged in
the battle of Belmont. From January 10th to 22d, moved
on a reconnoisance into Kentucky. February 6th, was en-
gaged in the attack on Fort Henry. Took part in the
capture of Fort Donelson, i:}th, 14th and loth of February.
Participated in the siege of Corinth in Colonel Logan's Bri-
gade. September 1st fjur milea from Medau Station met
the enemy's cavalry 6000 strong and after four hours' hard
fighting drove the enemy from the field, achieving a brilliant
victory. From this time till May Tith, 1863, was engaged
in various campaigns ami marches in Tennessee, Louisiana
and Mississijipi. On that day participated in the battle of
Raymond May 16th engaged in the battle of Champion
Hills, losing heavily. Also participated in the siege of Vicks-
burg Was in the engagement at Bv)gachitta creek, in Oc-
tober. Jan. 1st, 1864, mustered in as a veteran organization.
Feb. 3d, entered on the Meridan Campaign, participating in
the several skirmishes with the enemy. April 28lh, began
the Tennessee River Expedition. From this time forward
till July 21st marched to various points in Tennessee, Ala-
bama and Georgia, skirmi.-hing with the enemy at Big
Shanty, June 10th. July 21st and 22d was in the battle
near Atlanta, losing heavily on the latter. Partici|)ated in
the entire work resulting in the capture of this place and
Jonesboro. November 1.5th movcil with General Sherman's
army on the " march to the sea," participating in the capture
of Savannah, December 21st, of Pocotaligo, on the l.'Jth on
Orangeburg, Columbia and Cheraw, South Carolina, and of
Fayetteville, North Carolina. Took part in the grand review,
May 24th, 186.'), at Washington, D. C. Clustered out of
service July 17th, 186.5, and received final payment and
discharge the 27th inst. at Camp Butler, Illinois.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY'.
NON-COMMIS.SI0NED STAFF.
-Granville B. McDonald, mustered out July 17, 1805.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY C.
C.i|.(.iii«.— James R. Wilson, killed in battle.
Alexander M. \ViI-..ii, pr..iii..l.-.l by Pri'sLbiit
AuKUst, 1801.
William M \.i .:.. n.'.^: ..-.I ...i luh i". 1-.;.-.
Firaf iieii/rlm.,!. — U..\ ..1 M M . 1 i. i :• i, i.i . ■ i 1 ,. hilv
17, ISGJ.
tiecotid LieutvniniU. — A hi- . li i - i — u' - i ' . in -'^ Is
li 1, ■ (i 1 ;, 1 11 iiiii-i... , .. ,- -. i ^;.-ii
I'l'j July 17,1805
Sa-gcu„ls.—F.\,\ H:,i ii. .... ii. .1 .,i l.,.i.., . U....1..I-.
.Siiiii.i.'l Mill.-i. .li .1 ul hi.liu. Aimu t 2'.l.
1 ;f. i.l !■ . ..ii.|.l.. II. .lied at home Dec. 31, 1803
(.'orp<.r.d«— l:..l..il M.|\i,l.ll:.iv.
stli- 1 1 1 1-1. 1, ii.ii-tered out .Inne r., 18ft-.. as
sergeant.
\\ 1 !. , !■ II 1 1 1 liter, trans. Sept. 15, 1803.
.lischarged July 24, 1812. as sergeant,
vet., mustered out July 17, 1805.
.1 at Belmont, Nov. 7, 1801.
. mustered out July 17, 1805, as corporal.
stered out July 17,'l8t«t, as corporal.
, vet., mustered out July 17, 1805, as sergeant.
.an.
Clli-b
li.-.lat Belmont. Nov. 7, ISOl.
.. 1 , killedatAtlanla,tJa., July 22, 1804.
k. vet., died at Millen, Ga., Dec. 4, 1804.
...1., u .lliam.
, iJavid, vet., mustered nut Jiilv 17, 18C.>.
, Harvey, vcl., died at Millen, Ga., Oct. 31, '64, pris
, .I..IIT1, discliarged : term (
, I'Mward, vet., mustere.l ...
■II,. lames B., dischare.-.l I.
iniiivk, A. A., vet..
e.l.
Julv
M. -M 11, .1.
Neil, han.l.
I'olloeU, Sam
. H., vet., kill. I.I i..-..r \ii .
.dat Kelm.iit. .\..v. 7. Isi.l.
. killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 1.'., 1802.
, mustered out -lulv 17, 1805, as corporal.
lualered out June 9,' 1805.
el, killed at Fort Donelson, Feb. 15, 1802.
St<-vens, Jo«eph, vet., discharged for disability.
Snodgrass, Isaac E , mustered out July, 17, Isofi, as sergeant.
TaggHrt, Silas, vet., mustered out July 17, 180.-i, as corporal.
TagL'art. Daniel, discharged June 13, 1802; disability.
'I'livlor, Spencer, trans, to V. R. C.
W ils..ii. -lames C, vet., mustered out July 17, 1805, a- sergeant.
Williiiiiis.in, Francis, vet-, mustered out July 17, 1805, as corporal.
Wilson. John.
Wells, Robert, discharged; term expired.
214
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
A-eo-»i(«.— Adier, Williiim, died at And
Hoyd, John B , v t.,
Coney. Andrew, vet.
fouvier, S.initiel H.
ndle, S. A., killed
le; grave 12,430.
ine Hi, I8C5.
tered out June 9, 18(»5.
jnesnw Mt., June 0, 18(14.
Dun-iMK. August, died lU Andersonville, Jan. 2", Mi:,; Rrave 12,
Elliott, W. I'., died at Miicou, Ga., Sept. 23, 1804, prisoner war.
Fisher, Scipio.
Fisher, Thomas mustered out June 4, 1SG5.
Fennian, George L.
Golden, Nat aoiel, mustered out July 17, 1805.
Greer, Uharh's S.. mustered out June 4, 181)5.
Grape, George, mustered oul July 17, 1805.
Gerlach, Charles,
llecker, William.
Hat.'hie, Henry, vet., died at Florence, S. C, Feb. 5, '05, prisone
Hill, Price B.
Hargus, David, niu.>!tered out June 4, 18G.i.
Harm Ml li:i 1. .Ii>' l.;iri;.d Deo. -M, 1802.
Ha\itli"iii W r . iMii-tir. .1 ..lit July 17, 18i».
Ha\illi..i I.. I'avil M , Hiii-t. r.-ii out June 9, 1805.
Jon.-!-. '■ .1.1 1. I \ . .1.-. Ii,.i;.'til , term e.Kpir..d.
Lin.U- , I .. '
Liveh', I. nil."-. .1;. I al Millen October 20, 1804; prisoner war.
Liv.'l} ,l..-..}.li .\ hanged prisoner; no discharge furnished.
Mort,.n', .I..I.1I, 'li-'tiarsed Novemher 13, 1802.
Mahaii, An ii. u 1 . .Ii-.liari;ed Dec. 17, 1802, ai Sergeant; disability.
M'lrelaud Jam... 11,. .Ji-. Inn ied : term expired.
Mvers Peter, iiiii-i. I. .1 ...il .liiiie4, 1S05.
Maxwell, Dun. ;.i ...
Mulligan, 'rii'-in.
McN'ultv, John. m. .Mm i i\ . i . n i.i
MciNultV, Hugh, mii-i i . .1 n i .n. 4, l.<05.
Mccormick, A. L., .hf.l .r Miliu I'. . .niber 3, 1804.
Mccormick, John B., .Ii. .1 ii >:o .nnah, Ga.. January 2-2, 1805.
McMunlv, John, trans, to V. K. v . April 27, 1S04.
Uats, William H. Owens, Anthony.
Mustered out June 2:!, 1805.
Parks, James n s..,.,l .v-, L.^.^ph. Steinberg, John.
Williamson. M
Wood, Sidii.x
Whitney, AI..1..
Wright, John,
WelTiaus, WllUi
April 22, 1802.
,.11-ed.
I Julvl7, 1805.
MUSTER KOLL COMPANY E.
Otplaine. — John C. Johnson, resieiu..! lannsrv is, isr,;l
AshleyPearce, hon..nii IV .h., 1..... .1 M ,, l'.,1805
Linzey.Steel, mustfi... ,-i ■ I ; . . h , July 17. 18Co.
first iieiiieiimito.— Benjamin H. K' n. , -. ill: . ny 1 181.2
Smith Crane, iini-i i. . i- >. i ^. uit^ Inly 17, 180o.
Secoa<!i«»/eiian(».— Henry Beck nsignocl F.-l.ruai,y 14 1803. ,,,„,..
Thomas Ireland, mustered out (as Sergeant) July 17, 1805.
SeroMMts.— Charles Fitzlierbert, transferred .May 1, 1802.
Hugh H. Baker, died in rebel prison September 1, 1802.
John McKenzie, killed at Fort Donelson February 15, 1802.
O»T)0raJ«.— James H. McMilten, died at Cairo November 21, 1801.
Isaac Marks, Vet,, mustered out July 17, 1805.
James r,a-t,,n, discliaiged June 17, 1802; wounds.
Uio
-charged April 30 1802.
harged June 17, 1802; disability.
-.harijcd April 3li, 1S02; di,«ahilitv.
I,,,.,,,i,.._„.,f |.-..i„.|i.,rv 1, lsr,2; di.sability.
. i 1. , . ..,1.1 -. IM.I, disabiliiv.
I ; i, . jleptember 1, 1802
Blal., : • :, , -1 red out July 17, 1805.
Bi..\\i I r . .1' Burgos.s Samuel B.
Can. 1.1 \.liii. ill-, harged November 25, 1802; disability.
C nder' S . I. im. in, discharged Octulier -28, 1S..2; disability.
Emery,' Alfred, died at Cincnnati March 3, 18.12.
Emerv, William, discllarged August 1, 1802, as Sergeant ; wounds
Fisk,'ballas. , , _ „„,
Gastin, Jam.-s G , V... . m... i. 1 -.it .Tuly 17, 1S05
Gessman, Heiir\, .Il , .. I i '. :J. r- ..• .Ii>abillty.
Holtz, John H II . m . i I' '" '
Hartz, Franci-s .li-'i.i - < - i- -
Ingols, Edgar W., \ eL, nu.--uic..l ..
Jordan, Horatio B. „ , „ ,„„„
Koop, George, killed at Fort Donelson February 16, 1802.
Malone, Daniel, Vet , mustered out July 17, 180.5.
Martin, Albert Michael. McClintock, Forward.
Kyan, Joseph, died at Ja-kson, Tenn., June 10, 1802.
Buhl, Charles, killed at Fort Donelson, February 15, 1802.
Steele, Martin. ^ . ,
Short Edward, discharged September 27, 1804 ; term expired.
uu^^,n^^i^\r .Irthn Hischnrppfl Sentember 27. 1804; term expired.
^ .4 ; term expired.
.7, 1805, as Sergeant,
Short, Jidward, aiscnargeu oeofcenioei £<, i^u^ , i«;i
Sheemonick, John, discharged September 27, 1804; .^.....-»r
Waltamete, William, discharged October 12, 1802; disability.
Wolf, Henry, discharged August 1.5, 1802; wounds.
Whittock, Andrew, killed at Fort Donelson February 15, 1802.
Btcrtiii. — Ande?™n', JameV K.. discharged November 12, 1804; term expired.
\rnolJ, John, died at Memphis February 13, 1803.
Adams, John P., mu.stered out July 17, 1805.
Bowerman, Jesse, Vet., mustered out July 17, 1805, as Corporal.
Barnes, William, discharged April 30, 1»02.
Better, Benedite, died at Atlanta, Ga., July 22, 1804; wmuds.
Brown, Bobert L.. discharged January 1, I8i:3; disability.
Beiter, Efo, mustered out June 4, 180.5, as Corporal.
Baker, Joseph, mustered out July 17, 180.i.
Carpenter Siillimon, died at Shiloh Hill February 28, 1802.
Caruthers,' David, discliarged July 2-2, 1302 ; wounds.
Coulter, Matthew W., mustered out July 17, 1805. , u n-
Carr, John T. Deppe, A. H. Fisk, Stephen. Finle.v, John F.
Grab. Charles, killed February 15, 1802.
Givenrod, Jacob, mustered out June 4, 1865.
Girdon, Alexander, died Julv 5, 1864; wounds.
Garner, Francis, trans, to V. R. C. April 27, 1804.
Garvin, Kubirt, mustered out July 17, 180.i.
Hilling, Henry, killed at Fort Donelson February 15, 1802.
Hood, William, tran.s. September 15, 180:).
Hatcher, Charic-, discharged April 3 ', 1802.
Hutt; Gjorge W., discharged November 12, 1804 ; term expired.
Hamilton, David J., mustered out .lulv 17, 1805.
Hardin, William E., died at Marietta, Ga , August 20, 1864.
Jernigan, John G., died at R..me. Ga., Juno 5, 1804.
James, Isaac M„ died at Nashville, Tenn., November 5, 1804.
Jeruigan, William B., mustered out July 17, 1805, as corporal.
Jackson, John J., mustend oul Julv 17, 1805.
Kilpatrick, Ribert B., .11- li .i _• 1 " r ,1,,-r 1, 1802; disability.
Koke, John Henry, di-i . . i \i I ::ii. 1802.
Krentzer. John, d'le.l III \ \ il- Ht 5, 1803.
Koeu, William, niustei.i . )... ;.i-(.5.
Kennedy, William J., nm.-lmd ..ui July 17,1803.
Louther, Johnson, discharged September 27, 1804 ; term expired.
Long, William, Vet , mustered out July 17, 1805, as Corporal.
Louther, Martin, trans. September 15, 1803.
Mustered out July 17, 1805.
Leiner, John, Vet., asCorpi., Lively, William, Lytic, James T.,
Laird Martin T.,
Lively, Amos A., died at New Albany, Ind., May 19, 1804.
LatTertv, Jesse, killed at Atlanta Ga., Julv 22, 1804.
Lively, Edward R., died at Home, Ga., July zo, 1804.
Mustered out July 17, 1805.
Lively,W. C. M., Long, Daniel B.. Lythe, Jas. K. P. Lewis, Thomas.
Miles, William, mustered out July 17, 1805.
Morris. in, James K. P., mustered out July 17. 1805.
Malone, William, died in Memphis January 2:), 1863.
McCann, Josiah, Vet., mustered out July 17, 1805.
Mustered out July 17, 1805.
McCann, Robert. McFie. John R, McBride, Matthew L.,
Mi-Brido, Charles, McCallum, I-aao N.
McKiiiio-v, I. L-.. !■ , .li.-.l ..f w.,un,ls ill rebel prison.
Newfll I I,, .111,1- II ,ii,. I ,1 l;,.iiM , I.,. , .lulv 17, 4s04.
Pick. .11, l:, ,,.,,.., .. ,1 ' . I I,-..,-.,
Pole
Perkiii- ,l..l.i. I
Roonev, Beniaiiiin
Rasboirough', U ilh
Siewart, John K , ii
Soper, .\sapli. .Ik. I
Ml I 11 . ..a , July 22,1861.
t:...i .\..\|.iiibcr 12, 18i>4; term expired.
.ii-tered out July 17, 1805.
.lit Julv 17, 1805.
-tta, Ga., August 8, 1864; wounds.
■red out July 17, 1865.
Welden, Smilh B., Wilson, Mark.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY H.
MUSTEK KOLL CO-MPASY I.
mustered out July 17, 1805.
U.NASSIGSED RECRUITS.
Bonner, Robert, died at Camp Butler March 31, 1804.
Kerr James.
Thompson, Joseph B. ; rejected.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY E.
Pcii-a/c8.— Clark, Jacob, Vet,, mustered out July 17, 1805, as Corporal.
Dixon, Thomas.
Pr.ictor Valentine. Vet., mustered out July 17, 1805.
Wetzell, William, Vet., mustered out July 17, ls05.
iZ^-cru*/«.— Pickett, Francis M., died in rebel prison .August 12, 1804.
THIRTY FIRST INFANTRY.
[ Three Yiars^ sennce ]
The thirty-first was organized at Cairo, Illiuois, September
8th, 1861, by Colonel John A. LogaD, aid mustered into
the United States service by Captain T. G Pitcher, United
States Army. It was engaged in the battle of Belmont,
Noveraber7th, 1801, and was in reconnoissance in Kentucky
in January 1862. February 2d it embarked for Fort
Henry. February 13th, 14th and 15th it participated in
the battle of Fort Donelson, where it remained till the
22d, when it was ordered to Pittsburg Landing. It was
engaged in the siege of Corinth, May, 1862 May 1st, 1863,
it moved to the assistance of General McClernaud, at
Thompson Hill. The regiment was without rations, and
had nothing to eat the night before ; but they made a march
of twelve miles in three hours, and came up to the enemy,
turning their right flank and thus saving the day. May
3d, they engaged with the enemy at Ingram's Heights, and
were victorious. On the 12th the " chivalry " made a stand
at Jackson, Mi.-sissippi, and a severe engagement followed,
resulting in a victory for the Union troops. May 16th they
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
215
defeated the enemy at Champion Hills. On the 19th the
regiment reached the defenses at Vicksburg and was en-
gaged during the entire siege. In the charge on Fort Hill
it lust two officers and eight men killed and forty wounded.
Its flag received one hundred and fifty-three shots and the
staff' was severed four times.
The regiment was veteranized January .")th, 1H04. On
the !lth of June, it joined General Sherman's grand army at
Ackworth. It was engaged in the battle of Bush Moun-
tain, June 27th, and participated in all the battles, skir-
mishes and marches made by the Third Division during the
siege of Atlanta, from July 19lh to August 31st. In Oc-
tober 1S()4 the regiment was with Sherman in the campaign
after Hood, and on November 15th it moved with that
officer in the " March to the Sea," arriving, at the defenses
of Savannah, December 10th, and on the 12th camping at
Dr. Owen's rice plantation. January .'lOth, it commenced
the Carolina campaign, marching via Salkahatchie to Golds-
boro, arriving there March 24th, liSG5, having been without
communication for filty-fuur days. The regiment partici-
pated in the grand review at Washington, May 24th, l.SB").
July l!(th it was mustered out of United States service by
Lieutenant Augustus P. Noyes, and received its final pay
and discharge July :!Ut.
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
3f(yor«.— Harrv .\lmon, rosipnetl Julv 27, ISiU.
Willtam B. Slioit, iniisttToifoiu July
10, 18(15.
Qunrlermtigter. — .Toshllu B. Oiivis, niustfied out
Inly li), 1805.
Clinptiiin. — Jftcob Coif, nltl^t'T»■ll .iill ImK I'l, 1
Cuptaiu.- Daniel (Juillnmi i-i. r. .1 .m Julv
1:1! iRi;5.
fir«(iuii/fii<iii(».-Jolin rHlniiJ.. II, li. .1 \\.,,l 1
, IHr.i.
David.s.iii r. .Mi .r.', v-icu-,
.Inly:), isiu.
Second Lievt€naut».—\iiUnm E. \\ illis, mu^tt-ierl
out -lannary 4, 18G5.
John M. Brown, niustcrcd
3Ut(iisSerg't) July 19,18115
Fir.(S.rjCTu(.— VVillinm H. Kinzev.
Sfrjfuiit..— Andrew f^implinll, .lie".! Mav 4, lsr,>.
Slr-|.nrn ,1 Tiyl.r. <li., hnL'-.l f T d
«;\hi]ity.
Co:jiora/s.— .1,111, • - ' i ,. 1 1 ,, .1 1 -". 1 , , i --•. i ,1 n 1 > : ;, l'
I.J, dis.ibility.
Tl.'i'li\:iVl';"''.'i'!'.'i','"i',"l ''i,,ii-i'.,',.;i ,,
1 Mi.v 1.1. 1-..-,',, „« corporal
Willi. rn J. W..lk.M, n . I'li ip 1 -1. <l,„l
u-i.-. .'T. >M1.
.1.. in yi. Hrnun, ^.■l i-|. t. <l
.Irmip. W, I..,i.Mii, ■,•! , .iiit-.,.|,-,l Ml,
lull 1'.. 1^...'., ,1^ -erginnl.
,li.U !■., I~..,-,.
Jchii 1' .Millii; .11. L1I1...1 ;,t K.iit |.,.i
.■I~..!., K.l.nmy 1,",, 1SC2.
11, discharge.! July i!, 18r..', wounds
Black, John, vcl.. died nl Anriersonville Julv 30, 1864, Grave 4315.
Brown, William JI., died November 10, laia, wounds.
Baker, I'n.leri.k, v. t , niuslere.l ..ul Julv 10, \w,5. as sergeant.
C.i.i,.
r.
!■ ■ 1 .. i ■ '
■ 1 1 1 ■< • .1;^ il.i
ity.
(■;t! I
■ , \^
. ■ 1
.., : 1 ill . 1 i, 1 -i. ., ;,s .
orporal
\':ii
1. I-...:, ai.s.ii..iiu.
Ev,.i,
!
1^. 181.1, wound's.
Es.i-
,'V. ■!
:.'\'.\:':\.
^1. 1802, wounds.
t'-ry.
i.MliS.
KoSt.T
Sanii
Vii.
l.hi.ls..ll,J;
tnes. Gray, Richard.
Gamh
e, Robert, vet
mustered out
July 10, 1805.
Ciamb
e, Johr
Greye
, .\u.lr
ew T,,
if.l N..vriiil.er
7, 1861, wounds.
Guun,
John
, \ .1 ,
, ;... 1 . il .-ill
Illy 19,1805.
Hney,
Jolio
Mi ' i , ] - ,
MiilDdS.
Heath
Oliv
> ill.
i i i, ■ ',, ! ; 1
.1.
Holco
nb, 111
v.i| K .
hi.i.ii i i'il iiiii
-I.t^mber 24, 1864.
Hamil
ton, \\
Iliam,
iis.-h.in:...! .Ua
■ M, 1802, disability.
Harmon, Jol
n.
Hall. Isaae iN.
Heape
■ihon
«8, died of wounds N
^vembor 7, 1801.
Henrv
Hami
ton.
Kine:
.^-imii..
, .il...lT
I ll..|iv ,r, T...1
1 . November 9, 1862.
- ^,.1. 1
,i -. _yi|..-_, ^
'..-*, disability.
.Ml.:.
. );■'
i i .11
', ',,',',,■„-' \ „ ■,;,
irg. May 31, 1803.
Mii:.
51. 1 '
I i 'ill 1
r M.,died Apr
il 4. 1804.
M.'i
'. .'■ill-
v., died May liH, 18112, wounds.
51. ...).'
\\ l\ i
!ll 1' , 1
l.-.iat.lak,oi
. 'l-CDn., July 0. 1802.
Mum
.• W . 1
i il M,.ri li _■-
■..■.2.
Megill.le, Wils.in, ki . , I:
Noith, William, mii-i. ,. , , ;t -
North, Jasper, died .Mar..ii 1, !.■.
I'vle. Wlllian
l'.'.t..M.Svlv..
I'..lt.T, N,.|...i
iHid-,
1.-, I I
pl.i,,, 1 . I.iu.ui 11, 1803.
(juillll.all..l.>l,li II.
Ulun.-, Iiiivi.l ,\ . killed at Fort Donclson, February 15, 1802.
KanliiM.I, lliiuUin-. died at liome Juno 3, 1802.
I!»io~.-v, I: 11 I., killed at K..rl Ii.eiel....n Kebruary I\1802.
'■ ' III.- July 2, 180,i.
>^1.. ;tr , n.i.r.i i", \. t , niii-t. 1 . i , >, I . I'..'., as corporal.
■I l''.l.ruary l.i, 1802.
on February 15, 1802.
n, vet., mustered out July 19, 1805.
us 51,, vet. .captured, reported diedat AndersonvillePrls.
<■ 1, li illed at Fort Uonelson February 15, 1802.
1. I at Fort Uonelson February 15, 1802.
II , disehavEod April 21, 1802, wounded.
, I il.«"!i-i...-.M| nl 21, 1802, disability.
Hliiik. Iiui.
Iti.iKlialu..
Craw ford, J
Connor, Jo
Craig, Job]
Collins, Jol
w'
I)ix..M, Anil. u. iiiiisi.r.-d out .lulv I'.l, ISiii.
Hix.n. I , ., >t.red out July 19, 1805.
Emu.-, lil... M .killed near Keuesaw Mt., June 27, 1804.
F..M.i|, « iIIliiii I'
(11. .\. I I I ii i \ , \ .-t . mustered out July 19, 18C.'».
li. I 1 > il.-. to V. R. <:
lil I i i I ..-. I. aigod Seplember8,lS02, disability.
ll...iu. , \. .1: . . . ii.uslered out Julv 19. 18lKi.
lb. 11. 1 1 1,, .1 III. \ ..lie.lal Rome, (ia., September 2, 1804.
M..mu...,...M, ......i.-l.
51ii.h. II, 1: I , r.. .1-1. Ted out Julv 19, ISO.-..
.Mi,s«.ii I .i i.i.T.T.i.i ...11 .i.iiv 19, mrs-,.
M.iKiii-ii ■, l.i' ■., ^i. i.-i i.iii Ink. I'MSO.-..
0.1 ■ , 11 • i I. ,11, iMiss.
Tl..ini|i -.11, l.i ■.. ;- -ill. '1 ,.i I' . liii ill, Ky., Jlar. 10, 1802.
MUSTER ROLL Wl.MPANY H.
0»7).vrii?.— John Oliver, killed at Fort Donelsoii February 15, 1802.
JirSTER ROLL COMPANY L
TVirafc.— Turman, Hodge B.
Ml'STER ROLL COMPANY K.
Ow(.iiii.- Thomas Hunter, died of w..uiids Jiiuu 27, 1804.
AVrjcnu/s.— William Fo.x, killed at Fort Uonels.ui February l.'i, 1802.
William B. Lau,gston, \et., absent sick at m. o. of Regiment.
Priralfi—Mo ris, Henry A. Bro.
/^-•eruito.— Crew, Joseph. Staddon, Hiram.
Langston, William, vet., .absent sick at 111. o. of Regiment.
rudM-'jiied lifcruit. — Wilson, .An irew,
THIRTY-SECOND INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Service.)
R.A.NDOLPH COUNTY.
5ir.STER ROLL COMPANY G.
Bicnii(fi.-James, Henry i'., mustered out July 11, 1.805.
THIRTY-FOURTH INFANTRY.
(Three Years' Service.)
The regiment was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois,
September 7, IHIU, by Colonel E. N. K'rk. December 22,
18()''>, it was mustered as a veteran organization. It waa
discharged from service July 12th, l.^(;."i, at Louisville,
Kentucky.
MEN FROJI RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPAXV 0.
. Cieseer. Never mustered,
mustered out July 12, 1805, as Sergt,
Mo
;e.l Aug. 24, 1S03. Hisahiiity.
pi. died Camp Nevins, Dee. 7, 1801.
aiisf. to V, R.C., .Mays, ISM. Picket, John.
Oats, 1,1 1.1 1 1. 1,
.MEN FROM R.\NDOI.PII COUNTY.
MCSTEB BOLL COMTAXY G.
Priiate— Weaver, William II., di«l at .V.-vshvillc, March 13th, 18(>5.
THIRTY-EIGHTH INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Service.)
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MU3TKII ROLL COMPANY E.
7(e<:;uil.-Addison, David .1., transf. from 811th 111 , mustered out Feb, 7, laofi.
Campbell, Louis ('., transf. from 80th 111,, mustered out Feb. 7, 1866.
Dickey, Milton W., transf. from 80th 111., mustered out Feb. 7, 1866.
Watson, William C, mustered out Feb. 7, 1806.
216
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNFIES, ILLINOIS.
FORTIETH INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Sai'iee.)
MEN FROM RANDRLPH COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY P.
Private— Farmer, James E., transf. to 1st West Tenn. Infantry, Jan. 26, 1804.
FORTY-THIRD INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Service.)
The Forty-third was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois,
in September, 1861, by Colonel Julius Raith. Itwasequip-
ped at Benton Barracks, Missouri, there beiug then but
eight companies in the regiment. Here it was soon after
joined by companies I and K. It participated in the two
days' bloody battle of .Shiloh, losing in killed and wounded,
two hundred men. Here Colonel Raiih was mortally
wounded. Was engaged during the siege of Corinth in
May, 1862. From this time till December, it was employed
in various duties, Assisted to repulse a vastly superior force
of the enemy near Lexington. In the spring of 18G3, two
hundred men of the regiment were mounted and did excel-
lent service, capturing guerrillas, etc The Forty-third was
the first infantry regiment to enter Little Rock, Arkansas,
September 11th, a'ter its evacuation by the enemy. At
Okolona, April 2d, had a slight skirmish wtth Shelby's
Brigade. On the 10th inst. occupied the front in the ad-
vance on Prairie d'Anne, charging a body of the enemy and
driving them from the field. When the enemy's line gave
way the Forty-third was the first in the enemy's works.
At Jenkins' Ferry, being a part of the rear guard, it sus-
tained the first onset of Kirby Smith's array. In this en-
gagement the Union troops were successful over a vastly
superior force of the enemy. The regiment was mustered
out of service at Little Rock, November 30, I860, and re-
ceived final payment and discharge December 14th, at
Camp Butler, Illinois.
MEN FROM MONROE COUNTY.
MrJTI !■ l;"I.L CU-Ml'.iSV F.
FinlSerjMu/— Freilerii'l<, S .lni !■ i
Sr/jcdit.— ValPiitine, P.l-^ iiii.i li.
Corpurah — Killl;ili, Wliii hi. 1 , 1, ill. li
^ consoli'd, must. outNo
, Fh]li|..
n V. K. I'., s ■pt. -ii;, \W.).
Sclinell, Frpil'. Williacn, vet., trausf. to Co. C, as consoli'd, 51.0. Nov. 30,
l«ti."i, as Corpl. .
Van Bornain, Henrv, disohavEcd Fell. 0,1802.
Vogello, John, di.sc'iiargod Jnl.v 2."., 1802.
Weissling, Andrew, mustered out Deo. 16, 1804.
MUSTER BOLL COMPANY H.
Piiuatcs—Armhrrrh*, v-h-fpti, vet., transf. to Co. E.,a3 consolidated, M. O. Nov.
Ffilr', I > .■ . '.Hired Oct. 28, 1802.
refarnn— Biciu-.. ih, 1 . i, 1 1 :iusf. to Co. E., as consolidated, M. O., Nov. 30, 1805.
MrsTKU r.f'i.L riiMPANY c. — (43<? OS Consolidated.)
First LUuteaant— Henry Bcutel, mustered out Nov. 30, 1805.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY E.
Piioafes— Hass, Paul.
Moses. Frederick, vet., transf. to Co. C, as consol'd, M.O. Nov. 30, 180.1,
Simors, Ad'olph, died Sept. 27, 1862.
Spoetter, JIarlin, mustered out Dec. 10, 1804.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY H.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY I.
Btcniit-Dscker, Jacob, killed at Shiloh, April, 1862.
FORTY-FOURTH INFANTRY.
This regiment was organized in August, 18<il, at Camp
Ellsworth, Chicago. It was mustered into service on the
13th day of September, l<St!l. Most of the members of the
regiment, after their term of service had expired, re-enlisted
It was mustered out Sept. 25, 1865.
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY I.
FORTY'-SEVENTH INFANTRY (CONSOLIDATED.)
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY E. .t
FORTY NINTH INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Service.)
The Forty-ninth was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois,
December 31, 1861, by Col, William R. Morrison. It con-
tained among its members representatives from the three
counties of Randolph, Monroe and Perry, company I repre-
sented all three; company A, Randolph and Monroe; com-
pany B, Monroe and Perry. February 23d, 1862, the regi-
ment was ordered to Cairo. It was assigned to the Third
Brigade, MoCliraand's Division, at Fort Henry. On the
11th it moved to Fort Donelson, and on the 13th engaged
the enemy ; losing fourteen men killed and thirty-seven
wounded. It was also engaged in the battle of Shiloh, los-
ing seventeen killed and ninety-nine wounded. Participated
in the siege of Corinth, and many of the more important
engagements of the Army of the Tennessee. August 21st,
joined Gen. F. Steele's expedition to Little Rock, Arkansas,
and on the 10th of November assisted in the capture of that
place.
January 15, 1861, three-fourths of the regiment re-enlisted
and were mustered into service as veteran volunteers, and
were assigned to the Third Brigade, Col. S. H. Wolf, Third
Divission, Brig. Gen. A J. Smith of the sixteenth Army
Corps. On the 27th inst., marched to Vicksburg, Missis-
sippi, and engaged under Sherman in the Meridian cam-
paign. Participated in the Red River expedition, and
March 14th, assisted in the capture of Fort De Russey,
Louisiana. Also engaged in the battle of Pleasant Hill,
April 9th. Engaged in the battle of Tupelo, July 14th and
15th, under command of Capt. John A.Logan. The regi-
ment was with the army in pursuit of Gen. Price through
Missouri. Moved to Nashville, and took part in the battle
of that place December 15, 1864. The non-veterans were
mustered out at Paducah, Kentucky, December 24lli, and
thereafter the regiment did garrison duty. It was mustered
out Sept. mber 9th, 1S65, and received final pay, and dis-
charged on the 15th inst. at Camp Butler, Illinois.
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
217
I Georto Y. McCIiire, died March 28,
n..hr.
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPASV B. I MUSTEK ROLL COMPANY I.
It^citiit. ] shroud l.'fvteHtint,
Ross, James, miij'tiTed otlt Sopt !), 18CS.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY F.
Aaron A. Uoglan.l, disch. Kov. 18, 1802;
disability.
S.Win«rT?l..rt, dicJ at S;^^^«i..\'ii^^^^'^'«'^-,,^^ .
l-.un., April 1., 0.. H.'n»oii, Mi.hiiel. wounds.
Itt'-rnit. Knapr>, Jt;rutiii\ killc-d at Shiloh, April
Liuun, Alfr,-d, iiiu.«t out Si-pt. « 1805 ' 7, l«Ci.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
F.itt AuM.iut Si'nitoa.—.KuilroK B. Hinlly, resigned April 22, 18^2.
Ml'STER ROLL CO.MPANY A.
P<-i<-nV — Carr Mii-Iiaul, .liRC}mri;ed Mareli 21, IPG't; wounds.
I'eWran.— Burns, Tjiirnas, sorgl. killsJ ut N.islivilk-, Tcnn., Dec. l:., ISM.
MUSTER ROLL COMPA.NY B.
-stored out
Sergm
Gv»orge T. Brewer, i
D, 1605, as private.
Oirpoml.
Hiiks
tcred out Jan
William H.inslirow, mustered out Mar.
7, IS jo, a-j private.
B irn», Thomas H., Vet., m istor.' 1 out
S.'pl. X '''*"*. a-* corpiral.
Brewer, 1} -oree L. dielMiyH, !<••;.
Brewer. Willia-n T., disca »v -J J.lly I,
ls;2: dis.aiiilitv.
Callin. Eli, killed at Shiloh. April n, 'i
Drowry William, discharged fir d
abilitv.
Drowry, Michael, dijd April 21, 18.1
.lohn. Vet., mustered out Sept.
I8ri6, as sergeant
Hicks, Andrew J., Vet., mustered out
S*--p. '"», IS '.."», as corporal.
Kulili, Ad.iui. tra:is. to 2d U. S C»v ,
Jan. — , ISitl.
Loos, Henrv, died Feb. 17, 1804.
.Misspluv. Acan., Vet., mustered out
Sep. 0, l80.->.
Munilih', John, Vet., killed at Pleasant
Hill, La. Apr. I '.I, l.s 1
PredoMi. Joseph, Vet., mustered out
S 'Ot. II, l.Hio.
2. Slioily, Totield, mustered out Jan. 9,
18;
stered out
Wilson, Robert, Vet„
.Mept. 9, IsiiJ.
MUSrES ROLL COMPANY I.
Hill, Edward, mustered out Jau. 9,
Arehihald, W. Thompson, resigned
March •-•s. I8H2.
Thomas, Alexander, killed August 13,
1802.
Steond Lit'HletttttitM.
Oearse W. Brewer, honorably dis-
char.:C!d .March 21, '05.
Absalom W. Johnson, mustered out ,
(as scrgt.) Sept. n, 1803.
Scrgtant
April 7, 1S02.
Corportd*.
Samiel B. Smith, died at Shiloh, April
14, 1.SS2.
John L. Gray, mustered out Jan. 9,
1805, AS sergt.
Prirnif*.
.Anderson, Jamca W., discharged June
5, IS62.
.Ager, Goorjre, mustered out .Ian. 0, 1SG5
Bovil, Jasper, died at Chester, Tenn.,
SJay I, ISi;2.
Bovd, .lames, mustered out Jan. 9, 1805.
Cox, .Vbsalom M., mustered out Jan. 9,
1S05.
Cochrane, James T., died at home Nov.
W, ls02. I
Drews Daniel, Vet., mustered out Wilson, James M., missing in action at
Hofiil, James, Vet., mustered out Sept.
9, 1805, as sergeant.
Irwin, John C, mustered out Jan. 9,
1 80V
Jaines, Francis, died .Vug. 15, 1802.
Lincoln, James H., died'atCamp But-
ler, 111., March a, 1802.
Lyie, Jame.s discharged .April 15, 1804;
wound.*.
William J., mustered out Jan. 9,
trans, to non-com.
stair, Jan. I, IS02.
Mi-Nahh, Lewis, died at Camp Butler,
111., Jan. S, 1802.
McUinnis, Tli.nnas.
Nesbit, Robert, Vet., eergt., died Dec.
21, ism ; wounds.
Nelson, John, discharged Dec. 31, 1803.
Stewart. Lewis K., killed at Fort Doncl-
son, Feb. 13, 1802.
Tavlor, Peter .\., discharged Dec. 30,
l'8<'i:l; disability.
Ulrich, Joseph, mustered out Jan. 9,
181.5.
Vansickle, George, Vet., mustered out
Wo
. 9. 1805.
Scpt^ 0, l.sr.5, as corporal,
Gibson, John, mustered out Sept. 9,
1805.
Banowin, Owen, drowned. Fort Donel-
son, Feb. 211, IS02.
Hachtnaa, Pi'tor, Vet., mustered out
Sept 9, 180.5, as corpl.
Hall, .lohn, discharged Sept 29, 1802;
wounds.
Shiloh, Auril 7, 1802.
Youn*. Andrew H., mustered out Jan.
9, 1805.
Young, James M., mustered out Jan. 9,
1805.
raojii^ited ItecruUs
Dagett, William R., mustered out Aug.
21 , 180.5.
Little, Samuel.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
Colontli. j iiViiii».iiil-&liiKl.
„ , , „ J. E. Ganen, M. O. (.Major) Sept. 9, 1865
William R. Morrison, Res. Dec. 13, 1802 1 v j ; f .
Wm. P Moore, M. O. (LieuU-Col.) Sep. I ^'J'"-
9, 1805 I Thos. W. Morgan, hon. dis. Jan. 5, 1804
SOS-COilMISSIOSED STAFF.
SerjMnl-.Vy'ir.— Abram Horine.M.O. out Sept. 4, 1804
Q. M. *r^iiJ.— Edward Niion, M. O. Sept. 4. 1804
Oimini/vury !<<,,jeaid.— Anton T. Hess, M. O. .Sept, 4, 1804
Principal Jfwiciaw.— tie'irge Lnnipkins, M. O. M.iy 22, I8(il
William Loliuk, prom. Ist Lt. 01st U. S. C. I. July 1, 1803
MUSIEE BOLL, COMPASY A.
' Second LteuUnajtlM.
Wm. H. Rogers, K. in the baU of Shiloh
Abram Chalfin, .M. O. Sept. 9, 1805
FirU SergeauL
Wm. Rainor, mustered out Sept. 9, 1805
Nich. C. Chester, died May 3, 1802, of : Scrgtanti.
wounds received at Ft. D (nelson, E. W. Charles, discharged Dee. In, 1802
Feb. li, 1S02 Joshua Patty, died at Savannah. T.
Andy K. Dament, on deta'-'hed service ! April :i, 1S02
at muster out of Regiment I Louis Schneider
•26
Oiplaix.
William Cogan, M. O. Sep. 9, 1805
First Licultnaatt.
CoiyoraU. I Kcnnyon, Abbey, Vet., M. 0. 8ep.9, 1805
John Ijtne I Lovtel, Napoleon, dis. fur wounds
Daniel Hughes, died at Columbus, III. 1 Moser, Henry
June 0. IS02 Meyer, Win., k. Shiloh, April t., 1302
Louis St. Tlininas, Vet., mustered out .Marien, Puiri. k
Sept. •.', l.sOi. as Sergt. Murphy, Jer., Vet., M. O. Sept. '.1, 1805
Thomas Biirnes, Vet. S'rgt., killed at SIull,>n,Clias , diseh. to rec.lve prom'n
Nashville, Tenn., Dec 1.5, lso4 ; .McAdam, Saiiil.,disch. Apr. 13, I8ia dis.
John SinitUsehneider, Vet., died at Melrus.ii, J. d. Savannah, T. Ap .3, 1802
Vicksliiiig, June 5, 1804 Nolan, .lohn. Vet, M O Sept. 9, lonS
Richard .MoSett ' 1 Neil, Osiar, Vit. .M. O. Sept. 9, 1805
p„.,„^ r.iwell. Will, diseh June 22. 1802
,,, ,. , ,.■ . „ . ' R.-ters, M Vet. Corpl. M. O Sept. », 1865
Allerdine, Lawrence, Vet. Sergt. Robinson, Thos. k Ft. Doiu.'i;on Feb.
Iio.;bs, \\ ,k. Ft Diiiels.iii, F-b. II, 1802, |, ig,\,
Hiiniiaii Patii -k, k. Shil.n Apr. 0, lsr,2 (i„i„i.'j. 'rfiad. .1. St. Louis, Mo. May 20,
H.ik.r, Daliiil, Vet ,.M O. S pt ^1, IJOj 1 isi •■ winiinls
Uihries, N.lsoii, Ver., M. o. ^iep.'i, isia I r .v„old'. Tli.'nivs J
BurroUKh, Samu.l, dlsch. June 13, 1802 | u,.^„, |/,„i,_ v,'t. M. O. Sept. 9, 1805
BaU.r, Hemy smith, l'inli|., .M. O. Sept. '.1. ISO.'.
C^Ig^li! MleCl, Vet., M. a 9ep.9, 1805 ^^lllS.ier 'w'.MeMn^r'"- "' '"^
Cann.Wm.M., d. at Ca.iip Butler III., ' smith, H. d-i'l,. .\|„-. ji, isci; disab'ty
IViiv. 7, 18 I .S.'hwiiitti .hi-tin Vet \l t) Si'p u 18i.5
Carr, Milt .11, died at Camp Butler, III., ' .Siiii.,^.,,i, 'wui .1 *at hiii'ui' Nov 'a*' 1801
^' " '■' Tri.siliaii', S. ui.l'is.-h. .Mav'.\ isisl ' ;
T.irner. J. <1. .Mound City .Mar. 10, 1802
wounds
Tureott. George, Vet.
Tikeviver, Lou
" " 1805
lsi;5
Butler, III.,
D.Muint, Will., diseh. Oct. 6, 1802
Demar. uhas., d Sell for wounds
Daniur, William, Vet.
Ella, .Morilz
mis, .Is k. Ft. Diielson Feb. II, 1,802 withrow, .\. J. Vet. M. O. Sep.
>etll.-, t., .1. I amp ButUr, 111., Nov. 24 Wilt, llani. I, M. O. Sept. 9, ISIk
''.' „ .. ^ „ . ■ ,„.. t„ WitM-.iw, J. J. il. at Camp Bu
ass. A, Vet, M. O.Sept. 9, 1805, Wagr I Nov. In l.sr,l
, Vet. M. 0. Sept. 9, ISC5
khn, Vi t.
,.|, H -ni-v " i liixraits.
Hill, lieWaJn', Vet. M. O. Sept. 9, 18.T5 Carr, Bartlett, d. Camp Butelr, III. Feb.
Hill, II., d. Louisville Ky., May 14, ISS2 8, Isii2
Heii.li r, Kr.d. Vet. I Kriblw, Peter, M. O. Nov. IS, >8C4
Hinton, William 1 Kidd, S. k. Shiloh April 0, 1802
Kellx, J. W., Vet M. O. Sep. 9, 1805 Scrgt I Stinsoii, .Martin, Vet. M. O. S--pt. 9, 1865
MCSTER r.OLL, COMl'ASy B.
Ca,iiaiii«. G.ildin, Ams., diseh. Mar. 20, 18i3.- disb
John L. Stanley, t;nm expired as 1st l|'""'"p [■"'•'"li. V-t. .M.o.H. pt. 9, ib05
Lieut. Jan. '1, l.siB Hale.unb, Is.iae. died Apr. 2s, Isoj
Andrew J. Metiregor, »L O as 2d Lieut. ' ■'V™'}- D-mlilis -li. .Mar. 2, l.si..i;ilisab
Vuc 11 lsO.-i Kiik, Jim. \it. M. o. s-pt. ;i, l.so, Corp
.lUfc. 11, 1 0.1 J 1^^^^ H.iirv, M.il. Jan.v, Is,.", "^
Ft fut Lieutenant, Livers, l.rati'k-r, ilied ,\pr. l;i. 1S02
James P. Bums, died April 1, 1802 Lewis, Biirtwiii.'lu-.l, date ilii'klii.wn
s«o„d LU..>. /. !-.'^''>- ^■'.'^■. ■.''-■)'• "-'■■ '■-. '••<
Ml
. 11. lll-l'll. Jll
thv W Blanchard, M. O.
Sept. 9, 1S05
Ru/ 55r7nn.ll.
Saml. T. Agnew, discli. Aug. 11, \i&2;
disability
Sergcftnts.
Saml. Smith, diseh. Aug. %\ 1802; di9.ah.
Frs. .M. Viiris M O. Jan. 9, 1805 1st Serg
Samuel Carlton
Corfutrntt,
J. P. Smith, pro. Scrgt. d. 5rar. 20, 1803
Edwin R. Rusk, died .Viiril:i, I8i;:|
William .M.artiu, M. O. Jan. 9, 1805 „. ,
Jim E. Fosl<r, diseh. Sep 0, lsi;2 disab. », •'.' ',
Uriah ONeil. sent to Lunatic Asylum,
D. C, Aug. 02
Ja. U. Bryan, diseh. Sep. 4, 1802 ; disab
, Ni
MusUinn.
r, kill'.'d at Uendersoni
I. 21, 1302
.^l. V. I. Win., tl. nil r. .S. (.HV. Jan.
.N.-tt. J.s.. V>|. diseh. IVb. 1:1 ISM disb
Puk.tl. .las. .M., Ist .S.ivt. dlsch. .Vug.
II, l.s.',3:.lisal>llilv
P.att rs.iii, Jas. Il.s<-rgt. diseh. Nov. S,
IsOi; disal.ililv
Pease, lia\ id. .M. b. June 29, KSr^
Kolili. William, died Sipt. 21. HA
.«ho.ik. « 111. .M. dis. June. I'l. l.s.,-.i ; disb
Si.in. IIv.. V.l. .M. I". .S, |.l. 11. IsiiO Oirp
.Sulivaii. Il-7.ekia!i, diseh. July 2:1, 180^
disaliililv
Sivilis, Hariisiin, dis. Dee.— lsi;2; disb.
Turk. Joseph I".. .M. 1). Jan. 9, 1»05
III-, .li.-.l .Ian. 1:1, IS02
.-...liid I'.li. 14, Is.;.!: wounds
uilliains, L..reiizo 1 1.. \\-t. drowned in
lied river, .\]iill 4, l.sol
Williams. Edwar.l Y.. .lii.j Fib. 19, I8G2
Welch, Frk. Vet., M. O. Sept. 9, 1805
iinds
Frifnt€S.
Baker. Robt. dis, Nov. 25, 1802:
Davis, Tliuin.is. .M. U. S.^t. 9, lsi.5
, Green, James iM.. died Aoiil 2.s. ISia
bers, Jefferson, died Jan. Isf, 1802 Giirr.tt, l"ie<lei i,k, .M. (i, .laii, 9. 1805
Harli.w, J..S.. died at home, Nov. 7, 1803
Lawrenie. .Mai 'in <;., .M. 1 >. S.pt. 9, IBi'iS
Miller, Freeman, died at Camp Butler,
Crow, .lohn W. M. Vet. M. 0. Sept. 9
l8i'.*» as Sergt
Crow, Patrick, »ii,seh. .\pr. — 1802: disab
Dee
. isol
Recruit.
, Hir., diseh. May 2 i, 18ia: disaby , Reviiolds, Joshua II., diseh. Oct 8, 18C2
Dains, J., Vet M. l>. Sept 9, 1805 Sergt I disaliilitv
Deal, Frederick, M. O, Sept. 9, 1805 | Smith, John', M. O. Jan. 9, 1805
Erviiis, James, died at home Shake, Christian
Eicholts, .M. diseh. Mar, 12, 1803; disab, , Walton, J. B,, d. Camp Butler, Dec. 7,
Greer, Lemuel | I8GI
MUSTER nOLL, COMPANY E.
FiriraU. 1
McTigue, Thos. Vet M. O. Sept 9, 1805 I Thompson, Joseph
Mb'STEB noi.L, COMP.VSY F.
Fa-sl Lieut nam— L. It H. Dohbleman, re.«. Dec. 11, ISCt
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY H,
CnplaiH. I Umician.
Jacob Fisher, m, o. Sept, 9, 1805.
First Liaticnaata.
Service, Sonday
Edward Latsch,
Sept 9, 1805.
Second Lieutenant.
Daniel Stein, m, o, as srgt. Sept. 9, 1805.
^ir«i Serijentit.
Bernard Lofiiik, trs. bv pro. to 2d W.
Tenn. iuft July 1,1803.
nliimer, pro. pr
nft July I, 1803.
/Viroi s.
aa 2d Lieutenant 1 *'''«• Looiiard, m. o Nov. 22, 1804.
Armstrong. Michael, vt
1 Arms, Liwis, m. o. U.r
Bail
o Sep, 9, '05.
•irl, as crpl.
Biiuin, George, m, o. Nov. 22, '04, as crpl.
Rose, Peter, m. o Nov, 22. •04, as erpl.
Bow, Joseph, died at Vksbg,, .Mr. 4, '04.
Ilrc-er, Nielmbis, .lied at Paducah Ap.
7, 1842; wounds.
Buchard, Flank, m. o. Nov. 22, 1804.
220
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH,- MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
MUSTER r.oil, riiMi'ANY A.
OiBtoim-. lames L. Mnnn, r.-siL-n. .1 M.iu li II. Isi :).
Samuel T. J<.n.>.-, IicmiumIU- .1 i^.i,;im. ,1 Mav l.'i, 1S6S.
Haivey Clfiid. iifii, Jii.l . i wn.HMi-. July 111, l«i;4.
Goodwin Scuamor.', niustered out i,!i» l8t Lleul.) Ju.ie 10, 1805.
First leuiciiaiii— James L. Bruwn, mustered out (as Serel.) Juno 10, 18CS.
B.con t Lieut iiani— John Criley, mustered out tts Sergt.) June 10, 18H6.
SergeunUi—Jfifi. D Man-kfr, reded to ranks, died at New Albany, Ind., May S,/fi3
Elis, Till
, IHIIS
Tiidu
need to ruulis; wounded at Redaca, Ga., M. O.
di-i'ha'fred Aue. n, isr,;!. Disaliilily.
i-irr,-,l out June u 1. IMi:i. Wouuded.
li.i ■■■ I •!■ .'Ill I'.ui. Di-ability.
n, discharged M ly 1:1, l«<i3. Di
Ulark, redai
>wn, died at Murtr
., April 6, 1SC3.
ability.
Hn
Jat
2,S, ISGJ,
Bi.rli, Jolili, di
Corpl. Dl^abllity.
BarlA, Phihp 11., M. O. June 10, 18 ;.-..
Beckett, Jidin F., diM;li. Nov. ISliJ.
lii^alulity.
rrilev, Cyiu.s M. O. June 10, 1SC5.
Clendenen, Moses W., Iransf.to N.C.S.,
St pt. lS(i:i.
Childers Sam'l W., died at Clialtanoo-
ga, M»
i(, M. O. Junj 10, 18C5.
esboro. Ton i., Feb. 2, 18(13.
Miller, Mathias, died Mumlordville,
Kv.Nov. .-i, 18r.2.
McKiuna, Hugh, killed at Lovejoy
! St ... G.I.. Sept. 2, 1804.
Mrli.uiul.l. .I:ir,,li, uicd at CavB City,
Kv , .\mi jj, iw;-).
Muiiii, .I.uiuilmii IS., M. O. June 10, '05,
M.Mill. II. ,I..lir. \V., absent, wounded,
III .M. II -1 IJix't.
M"iii.. Ml -lex.M.C).jHnelli,'6.i.
I'liu,-, V.iiirnt, M. O. June 10, '05.
usi. to V. R. C. Feb.
C mil
M.
II .
sent wounded at
at Murfreesl oro,
lied at Mumford-
i.,eDl sick at M.O.
Jerinu,.
of K.ninniil
John.-ton, JucI, M. n. June 10, 180,-..
Jcrnigau, Alleu, M. O. June 10, 1805,
Corporal.
/cnkiii-. Ill
Ke
M
W
< lo.isn.i
Sim.in.s, Edward, M. O. Juno in, '05, as
Coipl.
.Siuiiiii-r, Jn^epli, M. O June In, 180.1.
Mlu| -I u, .l;iti:es G., M. O. June 10, '05,
u. C.-li.!.
.^iliiiiti-, I liiiil..sA,died Reedyville,
■\. Ill, . M:,i, h in, 'ivi
rii.ii II. II. i i\ K .liiii at Murfrecs-
1 I I I ■ : : M .!. II li . 1803.
•Ill, 11 :.. 1 , , ■ ■ Mil June lo,'0.5.
Villi 111 III I I-i.ii^-. M O.June 10, 'US,
Wood, John M., M. O. June 10, '05, as
Corporal.
Wilson, Johnson, M. O. June 10, '05, as
W . 11- I, ,111. - H., died atMurfroeslioro,
li nil , Allll J, '0:1.
\\ liihlini-t , .l.iseph, died at Murfrees-
Mu
iilordville
Wllsoi
Childo
Harvey, M. O. June 10, 'C,i.
ii.cn/i7.
s, Jolin B., M. O. June 10, '05.
Beiiehcamp, Henri
Kv., M.av 7, Lson.
Eilernian, Geoii£e,
Ky., Nov. il, ISOJ
Grumer, Andrea.-,
Feb. lo, '04.
Ml'STEK ROLL COMI'ASY C
Prhai,t.
iied at I'aducali,
ed at Louisville,
anf. to V. R. C,
, M.O. June 10, 1805.
O. June in, 1.S05.
rd, disoh. Aug. 31, '
.icn, Cliri.~tia
MUSTtR ItOLL CO.Ml'AXV D.
Captains.
Carter, C. Wm., Resigned March 15. '03. i
James Neville, disci, . Sept. 2-1. 1804. |
Tlln-a W Scgar, hon. disch. (us 2d i
Lieut.) Mav V., isr.i.
Daniel McKinzie,M O. (as 1st Lieut.) |
June 10, 1805
First Lindemnit .
John F. Heitman, M. 0. (as Serg ) June
10, 1805
SecouA Lientennt.t. i
Alex. VnnKendle,kil'd,hat. Oct. R, 18(12
Nicholas B. Jones, M.O. serg. June lll,'G5
First Sfiv/eio.l.
George Heitman, M. O. June 10, 1805.
Payton C. Jones, disc. June 28, '03, as 1
sergeant
Ephraim Rockwell, disc Sep.9,'03idis.
Cur,rorali.
Nicholas B. Jones, M. O. Juno 10, ISriS.
as serg.
J A Dare, serg. died at Murfreesborn,
Feb. l-','03
D. H. Milliuin, serg. died Cliatlanonga,
Not. n, '03
John E Morris, M. O. June 10. 'oSsei «.
Christie Hughes, M O.June lii,'iv,,|iriv.
John Wassel, kil'd Perryville, lvy.,Oct.
S, '02
Adam Douglas, disc. June 20,'03: disab
Wngonfr.
Jfts. Rayum, died Louisville, Ky., Sept.
, M.
disnb.
rp all.
inil.inlville,
loiinded, M.
ili«c Jan. 1, 'o:l; disab.
I, M. II. .Iiinelo, '65
hiiiii, disc. Aug. :•>, '04;
s \V., d Louisville, Ky.,
J., d Mumfordville,
y L., (r. to V. R. C. Oct.
m, ciirp. d at Marietta,
iliiam A., M. O. Ju
ral
.Willis, d Cnstiiiioi
r pris. tr. to V. R. Ro
Ingram, Robert H., \
C. May 3, '04
Jondron, liotesc, disc. July C,'0:i; disab.
Johndr.in, Eli, d. at Nashville, Tenu.,
AubE 14 '03
Jondrnn.'jatne.s, M. O. May 31, 'M I Snuil,. 1 ,,«vli M.O. June 10, '0.1, crp.
■ick, tr. to V. K. C. Feb. S.iwer, Jacob, Jl. O. June 10, '05; wnded.
I k, Henrv A., died Mumford-
Kv , Ni.\! 20, '02
III i|. ink J., M. 0. June 10, '05;
,11. H.il.i ri,M. O June lo, '05
c, Fr,
Ludres, Frederick, d. Nashville, Tenn.,
April s, 'oa
Menaid, Joseph A ,d. at GaIlali,Tenn.,
M,Fii,l,len, Charle.s, M. O. June lo, '05
Marrlin, William C, d. Gallatin, Tenn.,
laus, Frederick, t.ans. to V. R. C.
,t. In, ■04
r. W iUiam N., M.O.Jnne 10,'6o,as
.s',"william R., M. O. June 10, '05
hart, Augustus, killed at Retaca,
, May 14, '04
iir-ton, killed at Kenetaw
'I, 111
. William, M. 0. June 10,
li'il
I, liottleib, Corp., died at
-.11, .luuelO, 0:i|
111. iliedat Perryville, Ky.,
. Hounds
ji\,.|v, ,Ii,in,s U,corp., died Spring-
ficl.i. III., April 0, '04
Jarlen, .liiliii M ,died at Chattanooga
June '25, '04; wounds
MUSTER BOLL com;>a:
Captains.
John Hood.hon. disc. Lieut. May 15,'i,5
Thomas F. Alexander, M. O. as scrgt.
June ■u,'05 I
First LieHleumil.
Goo W. Clark, M. O. sergt. June 10, '06
Second Lieutnwiil.
Albert Foster, resigned ;january 24, '03
John Willi(
C'or^jonds.
Thomas Brown, disc. March 7,'63; disab.
William O Arnette, disc. June 8, '03
Haverficlil, John L.,ab. sick, M. O. reg.
Hciiipliill. Matthew R.,M. O. Junelo,'06
i.ilin A.,M. O.June 10, '05
1.. l;..l, 1, M.O.June li','iAcorp
lui, Lorp'l., tr. to V. R.C. May
John, wounded ; drowned
lier HI, 1804
iVilliiiMi. disc. Jan. n,'63; di.sab.
Ill- I .Mil .UilielO, '05, serg.
II 11 \". l; C. Sept. 15, '04
Call"
Dal
Dunn
EwiiiL-, .lulu, > l: . lii-c. for disability
Edgai. li.hus W., M. O. June lo, '05 ;
orp.
Real
.loh
Firat Lienlemnits.
I W. McCormack, resig. Apr.
1-Mwin K. Fo-ler, rcsig. April II, 'i
iscpli T. fhajubcrs, M. O. serg. .
Ill, '05
Seioud Licvlenniils.
•illiiiui IT. Ml ll'll, linn.disc.May 1.5,'05 n
mill I.. F. Chambers, M.O. Juuel0,'G6 II
, Rob't, tr. 38 III. M. 0. Mar.20,'l6
Ml'STER ROLL COMPANY G.
! Crawford, James H., died at Nashville'
" n., March 10, l.si;3
r, James A., died at Murfrees-
I, Teuu., April 0, lso:l
• Dickcv, James A., M. O. June 10, 1805
'06 ' Dobbiiis, Andrew, crans. to 38 HI.
Diiv, John
ne F,.--ti r, Andrew G., M. O. June In, '05
Fosicr William, M. O. Jiinelo.'BS: wn.Id
Glisten, David, died Mumfordville,
III.,
Wlllii
First fr>i,;e«iit.
. Burns, M. O. June 10,'G5; wnd'd.
Ha
Sergeant.
Iliam H. Frazier, disi
Usability
Corjtorals.
May!), 1805: Kirkpi
sHa
lilti^n.di,
,.„1, M I,
Jail
Jam, IS .1. Ln.l.v. M. n .hi
J/n,MC..ni.
James E. Little, M. O. Ju
Piiralc.
Aihutr, F.zekiclC, di,
Bnvil.L,
John I;.. M
le 10, -05: scrgt
il.i.lii.-ii.-i: wild
\ . n. C. Peb-
iiit JuiielO.'CS
I. .lime in, TiS
■111 lie 111,1805
1 I Inc. 10,1805
Sin. 111.1803
','.-;ui.-lidcd
IT. ls,;:i.
,t.\ilslivillc,
Louisville,
Louisville,
!S,'l'.ldi,-bltv
ilX
Brooks, John, M. O. Ju
niSTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
221
»terO(loutM»vl(!,'C3 i While, Nnthnn A., diec. March 17, 1SG1.
M <> June 10, lKll.i I WilU-y, Alexander, died nt GiilUitin,
' 'lifd ftt Murfiees-l Teiin., iJecember 2:i, ISti/.
i,iy27, isia I
\i., died at Chatta-
liecri.Us.
Sto%,ii-.n Willi iiiii,..M O. June 1(1, '65 Adlison, David J.,tran. to 38 111. Inftrv,
Spin, IIP. K. hi;. 1,1 .1 . iljcd at Louisville, I M. O. Feb. 7, ls6i;.
Kv, I iri,.l,, 1 IT, Isi.-J. I Campbell, Louis F., trans, to 33 III.
Thi.Tii|,.^.,n. Kill..- 1 1 1 1. .M. CI. June 10, '6.5 1 Inltrv. M.o. Kel.niRry 7. WM.
Tnvlo ..l..-«|.|i.iniisi..|. ilcutlne. lo,'i,5 Dicilc.'v', Milton W., trans. to III. Inftrv.
Thoni)!- II. Si.inii.l i; . M M ,li,no \li,'r,5 M. O. N.iv. '^7, ISG.'i.
Tln.Tii,,-nii.s.unu. I II ,M " .limeH),'i» Wnlson, William C, trans, to III. In-
Valenlm^, .lam.s II,. ill-r, ,liiiio :!0, '63 lantry ; M, O. Feb 7, ISOO.
EIGHTY-FIRST INFANTRY.
{'Ihree YfOTg* ^'m'icc.)
This regiment was organized at Anna, Uni.m county,
Illinois, in August 1862, in pursuance of President Lincoln's
second call fur volunteers. James J. Dollins was chosen
colonel ; Frankliu t'aiiipboU, lieutenant colonel ; A. W. Ro-
gers, major ; W. S. Post, chaplain ; Zibedee Hammock, ad-
jutant ; Dr. Dver, surgeon, and Dr. Campbell, assistant
surgeon. The oaii of service for three ytars was adminis-
tered August 2Glli, and on the 6th day of September the
regiment was ordered to Cairo, 111. Embarked at this point
for Columbus, Ky., October the 8th. On the 9th arrived at
Humboldt, Tenn. November 12th went by train to La
Grange, Miss., and was assigned to the Third Brigade, Colo-
nel Stephenson, Third Division, Gen. John A. Logan, Seven-
teenth Army Corps, Gen. James B. McPherson, Army of
the Tennessee, Gen. U. S. Grant. November 28th began
the Mississippi expedition, during which, till February 19th,
the regiment was engaged in various duties, including many
long and weary marches, and much suffering on account of
exposure and short rations. February 20tii, 186.3, it broke
camp near Memphis, marched to the Missis.>-ippi, and boarded
the fleet for Vicksburg. On the 23d landed at Lake Provi-
deuce, La., seventy-five miles above that city. April 16th
embarked on boats down the river landing at Milliken's
Bend, still twenty-eight miles above its point of destination.
Left this place April 2.5ih and marched overland and on
the 28th camped about a mile from the Mississippi, and
below Vicksburg. April liOih crossed the river lauding at
Bruinsburg, ]\Iiss. May 1st, participated in the battle of
Thompson's Hill, near Port Gibson Miss. On the 12th did
gallant service in the battle of Raymond. The regiment
was going at double quick to assirt the Eighth when Gen.
Logan rode up and shouted " Turn back, go to the right and
flank them." They obeyed orders and a signal victory was
the result. As they were passing by after the battle, Logan
sat on his horse observing them. One of the boys saluted
him with " Flank 'em. General." Logan replied, "That's the
way to do it boys, flank 'em." May 14th the regiment
participated in the scenes that resulted in the occupancy of
Jackson by the llnion troops. On the 16th met the enemy
at Champion Hill and gallantly repulsed several attacks
upon the battery it was in possession of, and also did other
effictual service. On the 19th the siege of Vicksburg was
begun and the Eighty-First formed into line of battle On
the 22d it participated in the general charge on the (nemy's
works, losing nincty-.M.'c men -wounded. Adjutant Zebedee
Hammock and Capt. Ward of Co. D., mortally, and eleven
killed, including Col. Dollins and Lts. Warnock and Far-
mer. June 24th Lt. Col. Campbell was promoted to the
rank of Colonel. July 4th the regiment participated in the
cereroonits attending the surrender of Vicksburg. August
21st began the expedition to the Washita, which ended
September 2()ih. Early in October the regiment made an
expedition to Clinton and Canton, fighting most of the way.
November 13th Gen. Leggett became commander of the
Third Division, in place of Gen. L igan. The Greenville
expedition was begun Janiiary 10th, 1864. It was fruitful
of small results, as the (nemy had left the country before
the expedition arrived.
This month the small-pox broke out in the regiment and
several men died of it. The Eighty-First was not allowed
to accompany its biigade in the expedition toward the Big
Black River, early in February. Was engaged in the
numerous skirlni^hes and marches of the Red River expidi-
tion, from March 9th to May 24th, when it airived at
Vicksburg. Immediately began the Guntown expedition,
and in the battle of that j)lace, June 10th, called by the
enemy Bryse's Cross Roads, bthaved with signal bravery.
It repulsed charge after charge, driving the enemy from the
front. It was the last to leave the field, maintaining its
position till, with exhausted cartridge boxes, it was out-
flanked by the enemy. In the second charge a Rebel color
bearer was sh,>t and the colors captured. On the morning
of the 12lh the regiment arrived at Colliiisville, twenty-five
miles from Memphis, with a loss of one hundred and forty-
one killed, wounded and prisoners, out of three hundred
and seventy-one that went into the fight on the 10th. Of
the prisoners, the privates were sent to Andersonville, and
the officers, seven in number, to Macon, and placed in Camp
Oglethorpe, as the prison was called, where we will leave
them at present.
The regiment remained at Memjihis, after its arrival from
Guntown, until August 1st, when it left on transports, and
went up the White River to St. Charles, Ark. The last of
the month they moved up the river as far as Augusta. The
boats were fired upon, but none of the Eighty First was in-
jur d. Soon ri-turned to Duvall's Bluff, and took the cars
for Biownsville Station, Ark., where it remained for some
time. September 17th it engaged in Maj. Gen. Mower 'a
expidition, after Price and Marmaduke, through Arkansas
and Missouri. Marched to Cape Girardeau, Missouri, a
distance of three hundred and fifty miles in nineteen days.
Went by boat to Jefferson City, thence by cars to Otterville,
and marched to Warrensburg, where it remained for some
time. Oct'dier 31st took the train for Jefferson City, thence
for St. Louis, and remained at the Benton Barracks for rest.
November 23d embarked for Nashvil'e, Tenn., to assist
Thomas against Hood. On the night of December 8th, the
steamer " Thos. E. Tutt" reached Fort Donelson, and on
the morning of ihe 9ih proceeded up the river. It had not
gone far when the Rebels opened fire upon her, disabling
and capturing her. Among the prisoners were six belong-
ing to the Eighty-First. December lOih they were paroled
and allowed to go to Fort Donelson.
As a part of the " Detachment of the Army of the Ten-
nessee," the regiment was commanded by Gen. A. J. Smith.
December 15th engaged the enemy, and on the 16th com-
pleted the wcjrk of defeat, following in pursuit as far as
222
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Clifton, on the Tennessee river, where the regiment em-
barked for East Port, Miss. At this place it remained for
a considerable peri' d of time. February 1st, 1865, went
by boat to Cairo, 111., and thence to Vicksburg, Miss,, where
it remained a few days and then embarked for New Orleans,
La. Here the troops were re-organized, the Eighty-First
becoming a part of the Sixteenth Army Corps, assigned to
the Third Division, commanded by Gen. Carr. March 5th
left New Orleans and on the 17th disembarked at Dauphine
Island, and remained there a few days in camp. March
24th embarked and ran up Fish river, and then went into
camp. Marched toward Spanish Fort, and happened upon
the enemy in ambush, who fired upon the regiment, con-
sisting of only about three hundred men, but were quickly
repulsed. Left Fish river on the 26th, and marched toward
Mobile, skirmishing most of the way. On the morning of
the 27th the Eighty-First were deployed as skirmishers, and
marched in pursuit of the enemy, who had deserted their
camp. They fell back across a small river, emptying into
the bay, burning the pontoon after them, and poured a
desperate volley into the skirmishers as they halted at the
opposite bank, killing one man and wounding three others.
The fire was immediately returned, divesting the brush of
the skulking enemy. From 10 o'clock, on the morning of
the 26th of March, till nightfall of that day, the regiment
fired l.'>,0()0 rounds of ammunition. It continued skirmishing
till April :!d, when it was ordered to take its position in the
brigade on the right of Spanish Fort. In the bombardment
of the enemy's works, April 4th, it was ordered to the
skirmish line, where it lost one man killed and one wounded.
Participated in the charge, made April 8th, on the Rebels'
works, capturing seventy-three prisoners, besides many
small arms, and sustaining a loss of six men killed, and
fourteen wounded. After the capture of Mobile, marched
to Montgomery, where it lay until the latter part of July,
1865, when it went to Vicksburg, and was mustered out of
service. It went thence to Ciiicago and there received final
payment and discharge.
July 29th, 1864, the officers of the Eighty-First, pi isoners
at Camp Oglesby, Macon, together with others, were sent to
Savannah, where they remained till September loth, when
they were transferred to Charleston and placed in the jail
yard. September 25th Capt. Reese and Capt. Bartleson
managed to have themselves exchanged, under an order,
for the exchange of Sherman's officers. October 4th an
order was received to leave for Columbia, South Carolina.
October 7th, were all marched across the Saluda river, and
placed in custody at Camp Sorghum, as the prisoners called
it, becau.se that plant with corn bread constituted their rations
at that place. Most of the prisoners, including those of the
81st, had not tasted meat for two months. February 14th,
1865, they were sent from South Carolina, where they had
spent five months, arriving at Charlotte, North Carolina,
next day. On the 19th left Charlotte, arriving at Raleigh
on the 22d. Were paroled by the Rebels for an exchange,
which by reason of circumstances could not be immediately
effected. The exchange, or rather the parole and discharge,
took place near Goldsboro, North C-arolina, March 1st, 1865.
MES FROM PERRY (
Cohnel. I'','""
Franklin Campbell, resig'd.
- )[ , killedat Vicka-
» 20, 'G4
Maja,
James P. Cowan, M. O. August 5, 18G5
A'tjutant,
Zeliedee Hammock, died of wounds
May 29, 1803
LoKan H. Roots, promoted by the Pres-
ident .July 6, 181)4
Lewis Dyer, mustered out August 5, '65
Semnd AssisUtul Hiirgcon.
Abel Campbell, died May 27, 1864
Chaplain.
Willi
NOS-COMMISSIONED STAFF.
Q. M. Sergeant.
Charles C. Waples, returned to Co. A as
private December 12, 18IJ4.
Cyrus Crogan, M. O. August 6, 1805
Commissary Sergeant.
George W. Ward, M. O. August 5, 1865
Principal Musicians.
Joseph .\. Weeks, returned to Co. C, M.
O. August 5, 1S05
Robert liouston, mustered out Aug 5,'65
Capttiin.
William McNeil, mustered out .\ug5,'Co
First Lieutenants.
Samuel Pavne, resigned Jan. 22, 1863
John B. Kelley, mustered out Aug. i, '65
Second Lieutenant.
Hugh Warnock, killed in battle May
22, 1863
Kills 1', ;. , ,l|.r h,n 11, -1,3; .lisablty
Eat>n Uc'ime W,, M. t >. Aug 9, ■65;serg
Etherton, Alouzo, sergt., d'd May 3U,'63;
wounds
Fitzgerald, William, died at Humboldt,
Tehn.. April ID, 1802
Ferguson, George, sergt., mustered
out July 22, 1865; prii
Foster, Pete
Gleeson, N)i')t<in
Golden, .b Im ^li
Hunter, \i m
Vioksbir , M
Hempler, I'lHh;
Hutchinson, .loll
May 23, 1863
Harris, William,
Hansr.ird, 11.
H:. IN. -11. .-I .1
St 5, 1865
M cl August 5, 186.')
■ Jiilv J',,'!;:!; disablty
|| , .■orpl., killed
, .i:;i'.d June 11, '64
, killed at Vicksburg
11a
itered out Aug 5,'65
M. O. August5, '65
■]ili F., M.O.August .V65
I, died at Marietta, Ga.,
.1
.1 M., corpl., captured
Keith, John R.. killed at Champion
Hills May 17, 1863
Kelbon, EUsha(i., M. O. Aug. 5,'65; corpl
King, James U., M O. August .■), '65
Keslin, Larkin, d. Memphis Feb lo.'liS
Kellog, George W., died at Cairo, 111.,
Oct. 2.5, IS65
Lonslev, E.l« in, disc. June 8, 1865
Lii . , .N. 1 .1,, rpl,, killed Aug. in, -64
I. . \, . II, died al Memphis
, Apr. 13,'6:
sblty
Leonard Wella, M, 0, as
Sergeants.
George Kirkbride,
6, 1865, as private
Leonard T. Ross, disc. Aug. 4,'C3]
Corporals.
■gt. Aug5,'65
uatered out Aug-
,b.hii I!
I Bishop, fli.'f f"'
, kilMf
May 28, Is
Jordan, 0,
17, lnr..i as
7.I., M, O. July 22, 186,'),
Jlllv l.'-i, 186.i
Smith, John, M. O, Aug. 5, 186.5
Thomas, Gillie rt.disch. Jan. ll,'05,di.sab.
Tucker, Joseph A., M. O. Aug. 5, ISCo
Thompson, Edward R,, died at home
July 4, 1866
Tli.Mua-, \Vm., M. O, Aug. 5, 1865
Ti.n.i. W'li ,|j«ili ivlnr 31,'<',3, disab,
Ti ■, . •,. .,-1 i,t hi. me May 11, '65
I ; ; , I . i ;-. h l^'i.. .5, '63, disab.
, M,
Wells, John H,. M,0. Aug. n, '6.5, corp'l
.Veils H.-nrv C, M, 11, An::, .5, I860
\V,„.t.ii ,1 » .1 , .1 ^.1.. Nov. 10. 1862
\\ ,,.,1. 11' w 111 K , ■ ..p.. ml, killed at
-ri.'.i^li l'...i, \ 1, IS...'.
.-.: sergt
..■ksburg,
■ris, mustered out May
-geant : prisoner of war
reduced; caiJtured June
1, 1864 ; not fieard from t-ince.
3Insir.ian.
Hanson, A, Young, M. O. Aug 5, 186.5
Wagoner.
Jacob Painter, died at Benton Barracks
Mo,, July 19, 1863 ; wounds.
Pricales.
Booth, Robert, M, O, August .5, 1865
Bets, Nicholas, died at Vicksburg July
18, 1863.
Baxter, Nicholas, M. O. .\ug 5,'65; corpl
Bell, James, killed at Vicksburg May
2:1, 1863
Burgess, Charles B.. d. Mav 28,'63; wnds
Brown, Francis, trans, to V. R. C. Mar.
15. 1865
Burk, Lewis, died at Humboldt, Tenn.,
November 1-', 1862
Burr, Ruins H., d. at Memphis Jan 0,'65
Brown, William E., M, O, Aug, .5, 1865
Co,x, James G,, corpl,, captured June,'64
Crogan, Patrick, M, O, August .5, I8r.5
Cl.irey, William A,, died at Memphis
April 18, lSO,i
Cruger, James E,, absent; sick at M, 0,
of Rcgt,
Denny, Robert, M,0, Jne,17,'65: pris war
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY B.
Jiccrui(«.— Kelcher, Joseph S,, trans, to 58 111, Infantry,
Reynolds, Henry 3,, died in Memphis, Tenu., Fob, 14, 1865,
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY C,
Madison L, Baird, M,0, (as serg't) Aug.
M, O.
\\ I i.^lii, S. Mil II , M I' \iii: :., .-"..sfrg't
Will,. 1,. Ill- \ ,11,..!,- \ Hi 1 1. I . -'4, '62
Veanan, /.epiii.ias b,, li„o=., to V, B, R,
Ocl, 24, 1862
Recruits.
Church, Robert H,, trans. 10 ,58 III,; M,
O, April 1, 1806, prisoner war
Keller, John A , trans, to 58 III,
April 1,1866
Provert, Azariah, corporal, trans, to 58
III,; M, O, April 1, 1866
Thornton Orsen H,, killed at Guntown,
Miss., June 10,1864
Wilks, Richard M,, trans, 58 III, Inft'y;
d, ai Andersonville prison Feb, 1, '65;
grave 12
Captains.
John C, Armstrong, resig'd June 30, '64
Mort mer O, Edwards, M, O, Aug, 5, '66
First Lieutenants,
Jac, B, King, hon'bly disch. May 15,'65
Andrew Y, jirown, rt,0 (as serg't) Aug,
5, 1865
Second Lieutenants.
Thomas B, McClure, died Oct, 24, 1862
Abraham L, Lippincott, d, of wounds,
Nov, 3, 1863
5, 1865
First Sergeant.
Louis Trefftys, reduced to ranks, pro-
moted corporal, trans, to V,R.C, Feb.
24, 1864
Sergeants.
Umphry C. Kingsly, died at Vicksburg,
June 13, 1863
James B, Alexander, disch, July 6, 1865,
wounded
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND I'ERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
223
James C. MoMillan, M. O. M»y 29, 18C5,
John H '^Moure, died Humholdt,Tenn.,
Oct. M, 186:!
Cojyorals.
John F. Brown, d. May 2X,a, wounded
Newron \. Brown, d. Lagrange, TeUD.,
Not. Zi, isia
William H. Burk
.Andrew A. .\lesander, M. O. Aug. 5,
iHik"!, as private
Willinni .StronK, trans, to 7th Mo. Vols.
Jos. J. Kinc >f l>. Maya, 'iv'i.pris'r war
John K. Darrough, discli. Dec. 17, 1SG2
Wagoner.
Hugh R. Durrsugh, M. O. Aug. 5, ISlii
Prirofei.
Allen, Robert, M. O. Aug. .=^, isai
Allen, .las Y., .M. O. Aug. .i, ISiiS
Armstrong, James L., M. U. .\ug. 5, 'G5,
as forporal
Anderson, Kavid A., M O. Aug. 5, "Co,
us sergeant
.\sh, Nathan, .M. O. Aug. .% 'Ci, as corp'l
.\9h, Wm., M. O. Aug. .% 'ivV as corporal
.,T«. O. • " ■ ■
as 1st sergeant
Brown, .\ndreH
.*ug. 5, 'Co,
Memphis, June
II, 'W : wounds
Brown. John P., d. Memphis, Fet). 14, V,3
Brown, G \V., d. Memphis, Jan. 31, 'CI
Brown, Jas. L , d. Memphis, Feb. In, 'Ui
Berrv, .Miles, d. Humboldt, Tenn.,Nov.
Berrv, Elijah, d. Lagrange, Tenn., Not.
ai.'t;:'
Bigham, George \V., d. Memphis, Oct.
■J4, 'a
Bridgewaters, Andrew, M.O. Aug,.'>,*65
Braden, Jas., M. O. Aug. 6, 'Go, as corp'l
Borders,Simon P., d.at Memphis, Feb.
■Ji, 'itl
Baiiv, Robert, 51. O. Ang. 5, "05
BilLs", Boi«<e, disch. Feb. il, 'la
Bills, Hiram X., disch. Nov. ■>, '02
Baird. Madison L., M. 0. Aug. 5, '65, as
sergeant
Coleman, James C, M O. Aug. .1, '65
Cunntngtian), Roljert P., died at Vicks-
bnrg .lune 17, "03
Collins, William
Cunningham, J.'unes H., died at La-
grange, Tenn., Jan. 31, 'C3 '
I>obl.ins, Adam \V., M. O. Aug. 5, 'Ci, as
corporal
Dagcn, Konrnd, M. O. June 17, 'G5
Dev. .Moses \V., d. Memphis Feb. 20, '63
lleaii, Kliiali, d. Memiiliis, Mar. ai, 'Ul
liav, John L., disch. May 31, T,.-), disab.
Dorrc.ngh, Andrew, d. Slemphis, June
•2-j. 'ui. wounds
Ririie-t, Francis M., M. O. Aug. .■;, 'C5
Fair, Allied, captured June 1", lA
Foster, John B , M. O. Ang :., 'la
F.ister, Wm., died at Lagrange, Tenn.,
Jan. :ll. 'ii3
Ferguson, .Marmaduke, M. 0. May 29,
'IV',, was prisoner
Fallon, Wm. J., M. O. Aug. 5, 'C5
(inen, Jiimes P., M. O. Aug. 5, '65
(irittilh. Wm. Y. .Irowned Kcb. 4, '65
HiiMiilt.in, liavid L., M. O. Aug. 6, 'W
H:iiiiilloM, John F., d.at .Memphis Feb.
III, "t^J
Hniiler. Alex. d. Memphis. Jan 31, '63
Heiulerson, Samuel J., Jl. O. Aug. 5, '65,
as corporal
Johnson. .Vbram, absent sick at M. O.
of Regiment
Kruse, Washington, died at Lagrange,
Tenn.,Feb. 10, GJ
Kinzey, John A., M. O. Aug. 6, '65, as
sergeant
Luke. Robert, disch. May 26, '63
McMillan, Isaac W., disch. Bepl. 8, 'M
McQiiaide, Daniel, absent sick at M. O.
of Regiment
Mcijuaide, Henrv, died at Lafayette,
Tenn., Jan. IB, '03
Mcguaide, William died at Memphis,
Feb. 22, '63
MeClane, Thomas, trans, to V.R.C. Oct.
14. '6:t
Mark, Win , d. Vicksburg, Sept. 13, TJ
.Milburn. Thomas H, died at Keokuk
Mumford, James, died at Lagrange,
Tenn., Nov. 22, '62
Milligan, William C, M.O.Ang. 5, '65,;as
corp4iral
Oldham. Wm. J. disch. >ov. 2", '63
Pommerhim, Robert, M. O. June 24, '65,
was prisoner
Pun-ell, Harrison M., trans, to V. R. C.
Oct. 14, '13
Peek. Zacharias S.
Paskill. William, killed at Ravmond,
Miss, Mav 12, '03
Pa-kill, Uriahs, diseh. Nov. 20, 'M
Quails, Neval, di-sch. -Alar. 28, '63
Robinson, John
Sterdivnn, Join:
Selfridge, Jason S., M. O. Ma.v 29, '65
Stephenson, John A., died at Vicks-
burg July 22, '63
Stevens, .\ehilles, died at Jackson,
Tenn., Dec. 9, '1.2
Tyler, Samuel, M. O. Aug. 5, '65
Woodside, Abner Y., disch. Feb. 2,**, '63
Woodside, Henry, died at Memphis
June 26, '03, wounds
Williams. John, d.Memphis Sept. 24, '6S
Wellv. John. d. al .Memphis, Feb. 22, '03
Wilson. John A., disch. Dec. 17. '63
WiUoii. Geo. R., M. O. Aug. .1 "65
2U, '64
y, John, died at Vicksburg Mar.
Rfcruits.
Anderson. Joseph H. B., died at Mem-
phis Feb. 14. '64
Armstrong, Slanin L„ died at Mem-
phis June 3. '("4
Copcland, Richard, died at Memphis
Feb. 14, '64
Craig, Alexander, corporal, trans, to 58
111., M. O. April I, '60, as corixiral
Caruthers, John, trans, to 58 III.. M. O.
April I, '66
Carter, William, trans, to 58 III., absent
sick at M. O. of Regiment
Deiiinger, George, Jr., trans, to 58 III.,
absent sick at 51. U. of Regiment
Darrah, William H., trans, to 58 III.,
corporal, M. O. April 1, 'i*, as serg't
Eaton, Joel, trans, to 58 III., captured at
Guntown June 10, "64; discharged
Franklin, George £., trans, to 58 III.
Inf., M. O. April I, 'r*
Fninklin, Jiunes H., died at Vicksburg
Feb. 18, '64
Glaspel, Louis, trans, to 58 III. Inf., dis-
ihsrgcd .Mar. "2, '00
Hiird, August \'., trans, to V. R. C.
Mav 7, '64
HurJ, Alfred T, trans, to 58 III. Inf.,
absent sick at M. O. of Regiment
Hinlon, George W., died at Vicksburg,
April -ill, 'a
.Mann, George, trans, to 58 III., M.O.
April 1, "66
Poslen, Dent, trans, to 58 III., absent at
M. O. of Regiment
Presswood, Martin V., absent at M. O.
of Regiment
Robinson, .li.seph J., trans, to 58 III.,
died at Monlgomen", Ala., Dec. 7, 'ii5
Rosan. Smith, trans.' to 58 111., M. O.
April 1, *00. as ritris>ral
Selfridge, John T., di^ch. Mav 29. 'M
Tyler, Ja.ob, trans, to 58 IIL Inf; dis-
charged f..r di-mbility
Wilson, Jas. T., trans, to V. R. C. Jan.
•^». '65
Wilson. D. K., trans, to 58 III. Inf., M.
O. Feb. 11, "lie,
Williams. Austin, trans, to 58 IIL Inf.,
M. O. April 1.'66
Woodside.s, Thomas P., trans, to 58 III.
Inf., M. O. Mar. -23, 'oo
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY H.
OipOsiiu. CorporaU.
Albert F. Crane, resigned April 6, 18rj>. John Andrews.
Edwin P. Simmons, M.O. (as 1st Lieut ) John H. Lowells, captured June 10, '64
Aug. 5, 1865. Jason Winchester, m. o. Aug. 5, 1865,
s private.
Wn
Firtt Lieuttnant.
\. Stewart, resigned Dec. 5, 1S62.
Second Lieutenant.
Cregan, Cyrus, tr. to V.R.C. Sent. 22, '63.
Campbell, John A., died .Aug. 14, 1803,
wounds.
Leonard G. Porter, honorably disch. Daniels, George W, disch. May 17, 186.3,
May 15, I860. disability.
„ ; Dennte, Peter, kilted at Spanish Fort,
~'9'°"'- ' Ala , .March, l»6a.
Hugh Oliver, disch. Sept. S, 1864, dis- Daniels, Isaac, died at Lake Provid'nce
ability. , March 7, 18CJ.
McWaide, Criphicid, died at Memphis I Loucks, Henry W., traus to 58 III.
June 21, 186;). McCord, John M., trans, to 58 HI., m. o.
n^^n,iit I -April I, 1S66, as corpontl.
ncrniiu. Wade, Benj.Hmin F., died at Vicksburg
K ing, .Andrew, disch. Not. 25, '64, disab. | February 13. 1801.
MUSTER ROLL COSIPASY K.
I. I Holder, lohn. killed at Gi
rttown, .Miss.,
Dee.
CVlJltljilK.
Samuel Pyle, Resigned June 24, 1863.
Lycurgus Rces, mustd. out Aug. 5, '05. Jmks, Ji^lin, died at Lagrange, Tenn
Firtt LUuteHttttt.
Edwin .A. Green, hon. disch. May 15, '6.5.
Second Lieutennnt.
William Needhain,regign"d Feb. 14, '6."?.
Robert G. Rees, must, oat (as Sergt.)
Aug. 5, 1805.
First SergeanL
Thomas North, m. o. .Aug. 5, '65, as pvt.
Sergeant*.
Nathaniel P. Farr, disch. Feb. 24, 1863,
disability.
James Gill, trans, to V. R.C. July 1, '64.
C'orporat$.
William Miller, Sergt., died at Ander- Q'uilmaii,
sonville Prison, 1864. Sudy. A»a, 1
JohnR. Lipe, m. o. Aug. 5, '65, as Sergt. Still, John, trans, to V.R.C, May, 31, '64.
George W. Gearing, d'a at Holly Sp'ngs, Smith. James, disch. Feb. K', 'la, disab.
'. William B., died at Lagrange,
Tenn., Dec.8,'6'2.
Keller, Joseph W., died at Jackson,
Tenn., Dec. 16. 02.
Keiper. Patrick, disch. July 15, '6.1,
disability.
Lipe, (Jeorge W., m. o. Ang. 5, '65.
McCleland. A lexauder, m. o. .Aug. 5, '65,
as eorpoi-al.
McMill.in, Joseph, disch. Feb. 26, '63,
disability.
McMillan, William, disch. Jan. 15. '63.
McL'tjIliini, William, died at JelTersou-
ville. La., April 2, "o.",.
Manin, Jeptlia. m o. Aug. 5, •fA.
Pyle. Lpliniim. m. o. Aug. 5. 'IV^, as cor.
, disch. Feb. a4, 03, disa.
Mi:
. Dec. 2u.
Fer<linaud Will
Franc
. o. as sergt. .Aug.
Ermtxilga, died at Jackson,
Tenn., Nov. -211, '62.
George J. Church.
Josiah Woolen, m. o, June 17, '65, pris-
. 3(1, 'M. disab.
• 17. 65.
Dec. 19. '6-2,
J/n.
Thomas P>'att.
iel7,'G5,'
n'ttgoaer.
Henry M. Chambers, di'dJi
Prirutes.
Bidwell, Cj-rus, died at St. Louie, June 1 Croiran Tl
30. '63. - I •• '■ • -
5 pris.
1 14, 1803.
Stickell, Wm. disch.
Vaneil. I>atri.k. in. o. :
W.l-on, Archibald, •!»
disabil ty.
Wilson, George, died at Lagrange,
Tenn., Jan. 31, '63.
Wells, John H., m. o. Aug. 5,65.
Wiihlgam- ed, Josiah F., died at Grand
Gulf. Miss, Mav II, '63.
Whalen, Michaef, disch. May 26, '65,
disability.
RecTnUa.
Brandon, .Mart
Lake Provl
March I
trans, to 58 III.,
il 1, '66, as corporal.
died at Memphis
James G., died
dence. March 18, '03.
Bellamy. William, killed at Guntown, ■ fuWow Ale
Miss.j June 10, 04. I „. Aphl. 1
Bvars, John W ■- " »"~ ' '"'■ -. »«~ .. '. .
Carnim, .Maria..., , _..
Crowel, William B., m. o. June 17, '65,
was prisoner.
Crowel, Sylvester A., ra. o. Aug. 5, '65,
as corporal
Derringer, Jacob, disch. Jan. 10, '63,
disability.
Gill. Edwiji.d.at Jlemphis. Xot.25, '62.
Clark, Thomas, flied at Rome, Ga., July
1 o.Aug..S 65,asserg. Hage. John, trans. 10 58 III , dis. Oct. 3.
disch. Mav 2.', '6:t. : Jones, Berrv W., died at Rome, Go.,
" '•■- " " July 1, '64.'
Johnson, Lewis, trans, to 58 III., died
near Sloiitgomery, Ala.. Jan. 24, '0<-..
Keller, Andrew, died at Memphis. July
i, '114.
Young, George C. died at Alexandria,
La, .May 14, 'M
1 M., al^ent sick at 1
of regiment,
endcrson, Kdwin, died at Lagrange,
Burk, George W.
EIGHTY-SECOSD INFANTRY.
[Three Fears' Service.)
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
Sccoml -iMis/a/il.— Herman Deitzel, mustered out June 9, 1805.
EIGHTY-THIRD INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Service.)
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY E.
Bccruit>.— Holcomb, Ola W., discharged May 28. IS'"..'', disability.
Henrv, William, trans, to fil III., mustered out Sept. «. ISi'.5.
Vnatsignal Secruil.— Heath, .Morgan L., died at Camp Builer, III., Feb. 11, '64.
EIGHTY-NINTH INFANTRY.
{Three Years' Service.)
The Eighty-ninth, called the Railroad Regiment, was or-
ganized by the railroad companies of IHiiiois, at Chicago, in
August, 1802, and it was mustered into the United Slates ser-
vice, August 27th. It participated in the battle of Lawrenee-
burg, Perryville, Stone River, Liberty Gap, Ciiickamauga,
Lookout Mountain, Mission Ridge, Rockyface, Resaca,
Pickett's Hill, in the investment of Kene.'aw Mountain and
of Atlanta, in the battle of Jonesboro, Lovejoy's Station,
Spring Hill, Franklin and Nashville. It was mustered out
of service .Tune 10, IMi"), near Nashville, Tennessee. Was
discharged at Camp Douglas, .June 24, 1805.
224
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Privates.
Allen, D:ivid S, m. o. June W, '65.
AndiMsuii, Wiilmm G., disch. Mar. 10,
•tii, disKbili y.
Bayles,-, : -
Brainier.
.lisiibilil...
Carroll, Charles.
Catim, William B., trans, to V. R. C,
March 1.% '04.
Caton, Wilson F., m. o. June 10, '05, as
Dodge, .William.
Estoi., J. C, die. I March 22, 'G4.
GMrBC, Ji>so N., di-ch. Aug
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
Simson, D. W., trans, to Eng. Corps,
July 27, '64.
Suesbery, G. W., disoh. Jan. 29, 'G3,
disability.
Silkwood, H. M., died in Andersonville
Prison June 24, '04, No. of grave 2,430.
Shaw, John.
Tinsley, Henry, trans, to V. R. C. Nov.
20, ISKi.
Tvrell, J. E., died at Louisville, Ky.,
'Feb. 3, 'C4.
Teaney, E. A., disch. Feb. 16, '6.3,di»ab.
Witcher, G. B., disch. Jan. 17, '04, di.-ab.
Weaver, J. H., trans, to V. K. C, April
26, '03,
2i, '64.
Griiv./^, .l"'liii, .li-'
\prii K, 'ri:(, disab
Gull-^, .1 .1 , .li-. !
h.v . ..!. disab.
Hui.,|.liiv>. 1 1.-
^1 ..u,.n„-,-d.
MidJIit-". V \'< . 1"
,. .lull.- 10, '06.
Monk, ^T^''M■ge 10. ,
isch. Mar. o, 'C4
Monk, .Joseph C, m
0. June 10, '05.
Rice, W. S., m. 0. Ju
le 10, '65.
Snow, Zu.nion, trans
. to V. R. C. Sept
20, '03.
ReCi uils.
Caleb, m. o. July 22,
'05,
Barton.
prisoner of i
Baker, John.
Burton, Stephen, trans, to V. R. C,
Feb. 29, '04.
Giles, Hallaway, died at Nashville,
Tenn., May Hi, '05.
Henderson, Alonzo, disch. June, 1803,
wounds.
Rogers, James, disch. Feb. 24, '63, disab.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY C.
Corj)oi-ai.— William H. Daniels, mustered out June 8, 1865.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY B.
Becruils.— Rogers, William J., trans, to ,10 III.
Rains, Hugh G., killed at Chicliamauga, September 10, 1803.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY D.
iSlr
NINETY-EIGHTH INFANTRY.
( Three I'eai-s' Service. )
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
:cr«i(».— Uieediuir, Enoch, mustered out Juno 3, 1865.
Ouihousf, J. F.
Smiih, John F., died at Camp Butler.
ONE HUNDRED AND SECOND INFANIRY.
(Three Years' Service.)
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY A.
ufleet, Olis B., rau.-tered out June 6, 1805.
MUSTER BOLL COMPANY D.
nccr, Josiah, mustered out June 0, 1SC5.
MUSTEK ROLL COMPANY I.
rd t.j r,.iiks, trau«. to Co. A, disch. Nov.
Hiiuni y 2J, l.^i'.l, di.^ability.
CyrpornL— Ch
Pricatei.— H
Huiiiphi
. I'lilliI',
, En.av,
MEN FROM PERP.Y COUNTY.
NON-COMMISSIONED STAFF.
Seraeaiil-.ir.yor— Joseph L. Murphy, Pro. First Lieut. Co. H.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY B.
Serifeauli. , Wilkersnn, Hiram K
Josiah Willis, trans, to Co. A, as co:
olidated.
to Co. A
iidated. M. O. Juno 8, 1805,
as Corp'l.
Wheeler, Anthony C, trans, to Co. A as
consolidated. M. O. June 8, 1808.
Privates.
Strir-klin, WillKiin S.lnms, to Co. A I „
asr,,„„,li,l:il,.,| .M .1 .him^ 8,1865. Becrmf.
Wilkt-r-nii Will I- luiii- tn Co. A as Watts, John D.. trans, to Co. ^
i;oa.solid.ilrd. 31. u. JuUL- s, 1805. ' solidated. M. O. June 8, 1858,
.MUSTER ROLL, CO.MPANY F.
First iieli(eniiii(. I Serfleanl.
Carroll, Payne, resigned Feb. 12, 1803. Jonalhan J. Browning.
Second Lieutenant.
! G. r.ayne, killed, Deo. 31, 1802.
ale.
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY G.
i>,ioa((s.— Wilson, Samuel, trans, lo Co. D as consolidated.
Wilmore, Henry, trans, to Co. D ascon.solidated.
Williamson, Jas. C, trans, to Co. D as consolidated.
MUSTEll ROLL, COMPANY H.
P' ivates.
Kelley, Matthew.
Osburn, Benton.
Payton, Alexander.
Stroud, John D.
ONE HUNDRED AND TENTH (CONSOLIDATED) INFANTRY.
( Three Years' Hervice )
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY A.
iiecrua.— Wdkerson, Hiram K , m. o. Juno 8, ISO:-, as Corporal.
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY C.
iie.r<.tl.-Kcllcr, Robert G, mustered out Juno 8, 1805.
.MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY D.
John P. Watson, m.
First Lieui
Joseph L. Murphy, t
Second LU
David W.Gillespie,!
Thomas M. Jones, m
Mallhew Rule, Jr., u
as Private
Thos. Mines
10, 1804.
to V. R. C, March
n. o. Jun
! 8, 1805
IhitmiMi. I- iihiaun, m. o. Junes, 1865.
MillinnM, .Milton, trans, to V. K. C.,Jul.
2,s, 1804.
Milligan, .Jas. C, m. o. June 8, 1803.
MilllKiin, Wm. H , disc. May 28, 1S03.
' ■ 1805.
, K,
Willn
1.1. o. June 8, 1».
.1, m. o. June 8, I8C-..
i-[., died at .Nashvil
Jl, 1803.
my, ra. o. June 8, 1805.
died at Chattanooga, Jan.
Wm. N. Staten, m. o. June 8, ISO.'i.
Robt. J. Logan, Sorg't, died on David's
. harbor, Apl. 16, 1865.
ud, N.
Recruits.
Anderson, Wm. P., m. o. June 8, 1805.
Bird, John, m. o. June 8, t80.5.
Clorry, James, m. o. June 8, 1S0.1.
Jones, Pendleton W., m. o. June 8,
■ .;, 1,
Privates.
.\met. Thos., died at Chattanooga Dec.
3, 1803.
Amet, John, Disc. June 1, 186,3.
Bridges, Andrew J., m. o., June 8, 1865.
Brown, Isaac R., m. o. June 8, 1365, as
Corporal.
Brewer, J.asper M., m. o. June 8, 18C3.
Cunningham, Wm. T., m. o. Juno 8,
1805.
Campbell, John P.
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY H.
C«ptai,
Wn
. K. Murphy, resigned Feb. 20,1803 grown, Fra
s D. Hoge, m. o. May 8, 1803. 5''"?''. '
May i
Second Lieutenant.
James Richie, resigned Dec. 19, 1SG2.
Sergeants.
iS.SIawsi
The
i J. .\ble
1- died Dec. G, 1802.
Cor^oraU.
Thomas Ozburn. 1,1,1,1,1.
Pendleton W. Jones, Jr., trans, to Co. l '-'■ 1 , ' '1 1 !-<■.
D as consolidated 'I'l' - '^'J,
Richison Collins. I " ,","'| , .p 1,^
Prioates. 1 1 , " w ■,, - .
Adk ins, Martin. II, 1,1 1,1, ,,1 liarles.
Bridges Richard .\., died at Louisville, i Iiii;|i(, ,\ii.ln\v J.
Ky., Dec. ■29,1802. 1
ONE HUNDRED AND ELEVENTH INFANTRY.
(Three Years' Smvicc.)
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY A.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH.
ilemiil— Patterson, Thomas G., disch.arged Deeeiiibcr 13, 1804.
MUSTER ROLL CO.MPANY B.
Private— Ijeslcy, .Alexander, mustered out Juno 0, 18G5, as Corporal.
MEN FROM PERRY
P) ieale— Fitsimmons, Charles, mustered out Jlay 30, 1805.
ONE HUNDRED AND SEVENTEENTH INFANTRY.
(Three Years' Service.)
The regiment was organized at Camp Butler. Illinoi.s, iu
September, 1862, by Col. Resdon M. Moore, and was mus-
tered into service, September 19, by Captain Washington.
The regiment in its three years service, was engaged in six
battles and thirty-three skirmis-hes, niaichid 2,o07 mile.=,
traveled by water, 6,191, and by rail, 778 miles. It wa.s
mustered out of service, August o, 186.5, ;it Camp Bntler,
Illinois, by Captain James A. Hall, United States Army.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY H.
Prifa(cfi— Gerlaeh, August, mustered out .Vugust 5, 1805.
Hamilton, Tliomas.
Huber, Jacob, died at M-
i?ccjiii(— Myerseough, Jo-cpl
&ip.>mi— Nicholas, Roitz, m
Piivale
, H.
f,,n,pM-y;;v
., 1SG4.
mustered out Nov. 24, 1805
',„i't'.\',',gii;;i
ored out Augi
d out August I
1; 1805, as Sergeant.
1 G. 1803.
1S0.-1.
St (i, 1805.
, 1805.
ilecrujf— Crook, William, trans, to 33 111., muste
ut Nov. 24, 1805.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
225
ONE HUNDRED AND TWENTY-EIGHTH INFANTRY.
(T'lree Yeirx' Sercicc.)
NON-COMMISSIONED STAFF.
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
Hospital 8(«ifftrd— Miircus L. Ros.s.
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-THIRD INFANTRY.
( One Ilwtdnd Dnyx' Serrice.)
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY D.
Pr!»(>/»— .McElv.iinc, Aidlia C, mustered out Sept. 24, 1804.
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTIETH INF.4.NTRY.
(Three Years' Service.)
The regiment was organized at Ciimp Butler. Illinois, in
October, 1*^62, by Colonel Nathaniel Niles, and was mus-
tered into service on the 25th. Moved from this point,
November 10, 1862, arriving at Memphis, Tennessee, on the
18th, where it did provost duty. Moved from this point to
Liui-siana. Marched from Alexandria, up Red river, driv-
ing the enemv to .Sabine Cross Roads, where, April 8, 18(14,
they defeated the Union forces. The ne.xt day, fought at
Pleasant Hill, where the confederates sustained a complete
repulse. In October, was ordered to New Orleans for pro-
vost duty. While here, by order issued January 21, 186.')^
was consolidated with the Seventy-seventh Infantry. March
1st, the consolidated Seventy-seventh was transported for
duty and placed before Mobile, Alabama. Was "engaged
in the entire siege and capture of Spanish Fort, Biakely
and Mobile, remaining constantly under fire. July 7, 186.3,
per order, the One Hundred aud Tliirlieth was revived
and was mustered out of service at New Orleans August
15th, and on the 26th, at Camp Butler, Illinois, received final
payment and discharge.
MEN FROM MONROE COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY A.
, i«ra.
OtpllliM.
ed \"n
cd M«
John W. Gall, m. ... .it eon.«cilidalion.
Fimt Lifnteiinnt.
William H. Miller, dicj March !>, isn3.
Fintl SftnjeftHt.
Robert S. .\le.\rindcr.
SergetwU.
John R. Co.x, died at Carvollton, La.,
Sept. -1, InM.
Joseph V. Lao.v, trans, to 77 III. re-trans.
m. o. June 17, 'tio, prisoner of war.
Tho9. Reillv, died at Vieli-*l>urg, AuK.
•,;l, ISKi.
Ira Stanton.
Lewis lirokaw, trans, to Co. C. 77 III.,
re-tran-.m. o. June I7,'6.>,pris. of war.
Elijah Fields.
Cliailea Drver.
Alonzo M. Danner, trans, to V. R. C,
Oct. 1, IS'B.
William Shook.
ed at St. Louis
Priiiiilct.
Acnew, Monroe, traus. to Co. C, 77 III ,
re-trana. to VW. m. o. June 17, 'l>5.
Prisoner of war.
Bettis, Daniel, ii-ans. to Co. C, 77 111 ,
re-tians. to l:!ii. m. •<. Auk. 1'>. 1Si>.'>.
Behler, Frederick, trans, to Co. C. 77
Ills., re-lrans to l:lO. m. o Aug. 1.5, v,j.
Bales, William, tr.ins. to Co. C, 77 Ills.,
re-tran«. to Mil. m. o. June 17. 18ii5.
Pri-soner of war.
Butram, William A., trans, to Co. C, 77 Lakins William
Ills., re-trans, to 130. m. o. June 17, McLaurar, John, trans, to 77 Ills,
1865. Prisoner of war. Aug 15 18^5
29
Clark, James J
Sept. ■>», 1811.1.
Clark, Leaniler.
Casev, .Midi-ew.
Coon. Levi.
Cabiiek, Theodore, died at New Or-
leans, I,:,.
Dix.iii. William, trans, to Co. C, 77 Ills.,
r.'-ti;ins. ni. o. June 17, 'iij, prisoner
Dillon, Michael, trans, to Co. C, 77 Ills.,
rc-tiaiis. ni. o. Aug. 1.. 1805.
Hon liiii!. John, trans. u> Co. C, 77 Ills.,
re-trans.
Everett, Traverse.
Evman, Kdward J.
Fisher, John, trans, to 77 Ills., re-trans,
m. o. Juno 17,' iio, prisoner of war.
i Folks, Andrew J., trans, to 77 Ills., re-
trans, m. o. June 17, '65, prisoner of
Fields. Jothnm, trans, to 77 Ills., re-
Fields, Samuel W.
Fiosi, E.lward W.
Griffin, .Michael, trans, to 77 Ills.,
trans, in. o. June 17, 'li5, prisoner
■r. Ja
rlv. Preston.
I Harper.'Jolm H., tran.s. to 77 Ills., re-
I trans, m. o. May 2:;,"ii.=i.
i Hilton, James S., trans, to 77 Ills., re-
\ trans, m. o. June 17, *65, prisojer of
Inihoir, Christian, trans, to 77 Ills., re-
traiis. m. o. Anir. l-"», 'G.V
Kell.v. Timothy, trans, to 77 Ills., re-
ti-nns. m. o. June 17, 'ti% prisoner of
Leisure, David, trans, to V. R. C, Oct,
14, 18113.
Lacv, l..ftonidas W.
Leu-is. TMomas B.. trans, to 77 Ills..
re-lrans. m. o. June 17,' 65, prisoner
Miller, Austin, died at New Orleans,
Oct. -Ig, 18;;:).
Miller, Juines, trans, to V.R.C^^Jun? 28,
1.SI14.
Masters, Turner M., died at Camp But-
l-r. 111.
.Nihl. -, llnih, II ,iis.!o77 111., re-trans.
Wilkerson, William, trans, to 77 III .
re-trans, m. o. Auk. 1."). \Wn.
VValfn, Edward W., trans, to 77 111.,
reirins. m. o. Auk. 15, 1865.
Whitu-ide, Hiram, irans. to 77 111., di.«.
March I-i, 18A disabilitv.
W.alker, John L., trans, io 77 III., re-
1 17, ldiJ5, as pri.^oaer
\i i 11.. trans, to 77 111.,
of war.
1- 111 .1 \!i:;. 1,5, 1865.
Workman, Frederick, trans, to 77 111.,
.l..-|.li. tians. to 77 III., re-
reirans. m. o. Auk. 15, 18 -1.5.
in, o. .Mln. 15, 1855.
Wootcrs, John, trans, to 77 III., retrana.
allies, trans, to 77 III., re-lrans.
m. o. June 17.''i5. prisoner of war.
uni- 17. Uq:,, prisoner of war.
.liisepli U.
Itremitn.
Ii.liii W., tran.s. to 77 111., rc-
HogKs, Thomas.
t.i 130 Int. m. O.June 17, 18G.5,
.lohiison, Thomas.
-1- of war.
Lane, Hiram.
\iiilrew J, trans, to 77 HI., re-
Miller, Frederick, trans, to V. R. C.
in i:ili Inf. m. o. June 0, IS65
June 2>, 181)4.
dull, John.
Miller, Reuben.
I:iiiles E., trans, to V.R.C-Sept.
McCaiill.v, Michael, trans, to 77 III., re-
*.
trans, ni. 0. June 17. '65, prisoner.
ONE HUNDRED AND THIRTY-SIXTH INFANTRY.
( One Ilundre I Djyn' S^ni-e }
a— John W, Phillips, mustered out Oct. il, lSi;4.
i.dr.S.,
N0>"-C0MM1SS10NEU STAFF.
-Walter S. Elston, mustered out Oct. 2-2, 1804.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY A
CajiUiin.
,m Bowlby, m. o. Oct. 22, 1864.
Second Lieutenant.
mt N. Pope, m. o. Oct. 2-2, 1804.
Firtt Serjeant.
m Onslott. died at Columbus,
Ky., \af. 2, l.s(i4.
Serijeant.
Simon Sprague, m. o. Oct. 22, 1804.
CorpornlK.
■Tolin P. Stiai^-hl, m. o. Oct. 22, 1804.
L V 111 i- ILinson, m. o. Oct. -22,
Willi!
Willi,
Burgess, Joseph H., m. o. Del. 22, 1834.
Hu'ler, Itailev, m. o. Oct. 22, 18n4.
Co.i, liaiiriel W'., m. o. Oct. 22, 1804.
Duchroit, Jame.s, a'lsent -ick at m. o.
of reKt.
Dunn, cliiirles H., m. o. Oct. 22, 1864, as
Houston, ,lohn, m. o. Oct. 22, isr.4.
Hoovey, ll-zekiall. m. o. Oc. 22, 1301.
m, died at Columbus, Ky.,
,.11,
Lewis, Willia
Julv 31, l.si;
McCollin, N., m. o. 0
Miffin, .lolin J., m. o.
Moss. Allre'il s, m. o
l{"ineh;irt, Andrew, r
Richards, George W
1804.
, IdOI.
2.', 1S04.
22, ISlrJ.
.1 t. 2-2, 1804.
ivned Aug. 3,
Privates.
I, m. o. Oct. 22.
ii, isw, Sandford John A., ni. o. Oct. 22, 1864.
.Sanders, Henry, ni. o. Oct. 22, 1804.
Stuck house, I.-aac, m. o. Oct. 22, 1804,
;4 ' as corpornl.
2> vj .Spoils. William, m. o, Oct. '2-2. iar4.
•'2 '-64 Stewart, Wilunin, m. o. .Nov. 18, 1864.
o 'Oct Thoinp-on. I'Mf, m. o. Di-t. '22, 1864.
^ "• "^ ■ VouKlit. Albert, iii.y.. Ocl. 22, IS64.
is. E., m. 0. Oct. 2-2, 1304. Wel.lon. Matliew W., m. o. Ocl. 22, ■64.
1-^ Si\mn^nn in o Oct -'-' '04 as corporal.
norat "^ ""' Yearian,^Mari.,n, m. o. Oct. 22, 1864.
Till
C'iptmr.
mas F. (lay.
First I.'cale
•■III.
Joseph B. Curlee.
S cmiii LiailiiiinU.
Joseph L. Stedlan.
FuKt gel-rjraiit.
Ezra Woods.
Sergeants.
Isaac D. Kellev.
Henry W. Vales.
George Linsey.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY D.
Mustered Out October 22, 1S64.
Bowman, I'ri;
Burr, Williaii
Butler, David
Brown, Andri
, He
Corpara't.
John S. Winthrnpe.
(iideon B. Wilcller.
Jasper Keller.*
William H, .McDowell.
Cornelii
Pvie
W. R:
.Wirs.Vinri,
Gefirce W. .shoiifT.
Joseph Shelpnian.
Hlckson, .Natli!
Drew, Johns.
iJun.-an, Frano
.Ian
Edivi
nklin.
K.
~ I,., ll.lirv.
--,..,1 i, li.iVsillia.
S:iiidcis, Lafayette.
ToppiuK. James.
TeiiKue, .Marion.
Tebo, Amaziah.
Tample, William.)
Viin.iossdale. Isaac.
Vinevai-d. Albert B.
Whitley, .Samuel.
;;tr™,(.-Bell, Edwii
Hester, Monti
• A- Private. t A« Corporal.
} Absent Sick at rn. o. of regiment. J Died at Colilnibus, Ky., Aug. 14. 1304
I Died at Columbus, Ky., Sept. 15, 1SJ4
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY G.
P.imi-..
Church, Lrtfaye-te, m. n. July 14, 1.lrK5.
Clarke, Win. C, in. o. July, 14, 1S05, as
corporal.
Ezcll, Jfi.hn m.o.July 14,18;4,a«corpl
Nailor, H., died at Alton, III., May 2-1, 'OC
Randolph, J.aspcr, m. o. Julv 14, IS05.
■ ih, in. o. Julv U, 18(i-i.
s, E,,dicdatDaquoin, 111.
W'illii
Weligamojdd, G., m. o, July 14, 1S05.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY H.
CapfoJn.— Jason J, Sanburn, mustered out July 14, 1?65,
ftcc™i<— Stophi-n, John, muswred out July 14, 1805.
226
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND FERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-SIXTH INFANTRY.
{One Years Sei-vice.)
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY, E.
Viidff,— Taylor, Francis M., discharged May 10, '65; disability
ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTIETH INFANTRY.
{Oue Yearns Service.)
-Wils
\V(.i:
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY I.
n, Jolm.
e\; George, mustered out Jan. 1«, l8G(i.
ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY SECOND INF.4NTRY.
{One Hundred Day's Service.)
The One Huudred and Forty-second Infantry was organ-
ized at Freeport, Illinois, by Colonel Rolliu V. Ankney, as
a battalion of eight companies, and ordered to Camp Butler,
where two companies were added, and the regiment mustered
in June 18, 1864. June 21st, moved for Memphis via Cairo
and the Mississippi river, arriving on the '24tli. Moved to
White's Station, 2Gth inst., 11 miles from Memphis, where
it was assigned to duty at guarding the Memphis and Char-
leston railroad. Mustered out of service October 27, 1864,
at Chicago, Illinois.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
JWfijor.— Charles .1. Childs, mustered out Oct. 27, 1S04.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY G.
P)ii«i(f.— Uiown Cli.avles E , mustered out Oct. 2(i, ISOi .
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY H.
Andr
Willi;
Seroiid Lieiitfin.int.
• B. Hogard, m. o. Oct. 27, 1804.
Crawford Jain*
Ellison, Ale.xa
Grass, .John F.
1 Ncvill,
Scrgetut.
o. Oct. 26, lSf,4.
Corpora/8.
George Winfield, m. o. Oct. 26, 1804.
UlricTi W. Wilsoi], m. o. Oct. 26, 1804.
Tyler W, Seders, m. o. Oct. 26, 1S04.
Privates.
Allmon, 11. C, m. o. Oct. 26, 1804.
Bowman Wm J., m. o. Oct. 16, 1864.
Bridgnmn Jackson, m.o. Oct. Hi, 1804.
Clearv Jlichael T., m, o. Oct. 10, 1S04.
Cochran, Thos. H., m. o. Oct. 10, IBM.
MUSTER ROLL
Cnptain
John Stevenson, m. o. October 27, 1864.
First Lieulenarl.
Daniel P. Baker, m. o. Oct. 27, 1804.
ScroT.d LUutenant.
Charles C. Lawson, m. o. Oct.27, 1804.
First Sergtant.
Francis B. Anderson, m. o. Oct 26, 1804. '
Sergeants. i .
David L. Murphy, m. o. Oct. 26, 1804.
Stewart, Orr, m. o. Oct. 2ll, 1864, for re- ' :
enlistment. j .
Wm. W. McDonald, m. o. Oct. 26, 1864. I .
Wm. Clittenden, m. o. Oct. 20, 1804.
Uorpnrals
Andrew Given, m. o. Oct. 26, 18IU.
James Nelson, m. o. Oct. 1804.
Wm. J. Crawford, m. o. Oct. 26, 1864.
Wm. M. Baird, m. o. Or.t. 20, 1804.
Wm. M. Brown, m.o. Oct. 26, 1804.
John Gallowav, m. o. Oct. 26, 1864.
Nathan Hanuon, m. o. Oct. 20, 1804.
Joseph E. Davas, m. o. Oct. i6, 1804.
Privates.
Amett, Theophilus, absent sick at ni. o,
regiment.
Anderson, John H. m. o. Oct. 20, 1864.
Andrew, Robert, m. o. Oct. 26, 1854.
Benson, Lewis A., m. o- Oct. 26, 1864.
Burns, Wm. J., m. o. Oct. V6, 1864.
Bolinger, Lewis, m. o. Oct. 26, 1804.
Bailey James T., m. o. Oct. 20, 1804.
Cain, Chas., ditd at White Station, T.
Sept. 2, 1804.
Crawford Wm. G., m. o. Oct. 26, 1864.
Crittenden John J., m p. Oct. 20, 1804.
Crouch, John W. m. o. Oct. 26, 1864.
Cuthbertson, John, m. o. Oct. 20, 1864.
Couch, Milton, m. o. Oct. 26, 1864.
H., m.o. Oct. 10, 1864.
ler. m.o. Oct, 10, 1804.
■n. o. Oct. 10, 1864.
m. o. Oct. 10, 1804.
VV., died at White Station,
, 1804.
^\ . Til, n ("in 'If; 1,S64.
■Iiiili.n, B,. .Ii.d at .Memphis, .luIvS
Thomas, John W., m. o. Oct 20, I'sc
corpoi-al.
Woods, George, m. o. Oct. 26, 1804.
1 ■' . 1-114,
. 20. I8ii4,
■ ■■ ■■ -■■., 1864.
■' I -1., 1804.
11, llct.2», 1864.
, o. Oct. 26, '64.
I, '20, 1S04.
Ill I JO. IKIU,
Petitt, Jamt- s W, in, i
Rainev, Geo. VV. '
Rowland, Geo. W.
Stevenson, Robert J.
Simpson, James T.
Smith, Geo. W., m. o. Oct. 20, 1864, for
re-t-nlistment.
Sproule, Matthew, m. o. Oct. 20, 1804.
Stewari, John G , m. o. Oct. 2i;, l«o;.
Thompson, Jos. B., m. o. Oct. 20,1864.
Tavlor, Jolin G., m. o. Oct. 20, 18ii4.
Temple, James M.,
Telfer, Wjlli,ar
Toverca, Hartley.
Troester, Fred., i
. Oct. 21.
o. Oct.
.;iso(,
21., 1804.
Watson, Wm. C, m. o. Oct. 26, 1864.
White, Nathan A., m. o. Oct. 26, 1804.
Wvlle, Henry C, m. o. Oct. 26, 1,864.
Wlilflngion, Pleasant, m. o. Oct. '26, '65.
1. Oct. -20, 1865.
Oct. '26, 1865.
Itecrmt.
m. o. Oct. 26, 1865.
MEN FROM MONROE COUNTY.
MUSTER KOI.L COMPANy H.
Pr irate.-.
Oldendorph, George, m. o. Oct. 20, '64 | Woods, Jeremiah, m. o. October 26, '64
ONE HUNDRED AND FORTY-NINTH INFANTRY.
{One YeoT''s Service.)
This regiment was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois,
February 11, 1865, by Colonel William C. KuefTner. On
the 14th inst. moved to Nashville, Tenn,, and thence to
Chattanooga; was assigned to duty guarding railroads May
2d ; moved to Dalton, Ga., and July 6th, to Atlanta. On
the 20th was assigned to guard duty in the Fourth sub-dis-
trict iu the District of Allatoona. January 27. 1866, was
mustered out at Dalton, Ga., and received final payment
and discharge at Springfield, Illinois.
MEN FROM MONROE COUNTY.
Ml'STEK ROLL COMP.INY H.
Lingeman, Joseph, ni. o. Jan. 27, 1806
Politisch, Wiegand, m. o. Jan. 27, 1806
Siapp, John, mustered out Jan. 27, '06
W^eter, Jacob, mustered out Jan.*27, '06
, Peter, mustered (
. 27, '06
1, 27, '06
. 27, '66
MUSTEK ROLL CmiV.K'SY K.
Deitz, Anton, mustered out Jan. 27, '60>
(Joldman, Andreas, m. o. Jan. '27, '65
Gross, Jacob, mustered out Jan. 27, 'C6
Habermehl, Joseph, m. o. Jan. '27, '00
l.eiser, Louis, mustered out Jan. 27, '66
Mund, Fred, mustered out Jan. 27, '66
, Nicholas, m. o. Jan. 27,'G6
ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTIETH INFANTRY.
(O/fc Yt^ar's Service.)
The One Hundred and Fiftieth was organized at Camp
Butler, February 14, and mustered into service on the 15th,
and it left for the front on the 18lh, 1865. Did various
guard and garrison duty, till January 16, 1866, when it
was mustered out at Atlanta, Georgia, and moved to
Springfield, Illinois, where it received final payment and
discharge.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY'.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY F.
Second Lievtenants.
David 8. Dicken, trans, to 136 Regt. U
S. Col. Troops
George W.Clark, mo, as serg. Jan 16,'66 j Hicks" J
Pfion(«, ! Lansa'nce, Thaddeus,
Bequelt, Ambrose, m, o. .Taniiarv 16, '66
Henderson, Isaac
Hicks, Cornelius, died at Cleveland,
April 2U, 1865
in. o. Jai
Peter, died at ft
Jan 16, 1866
larvie, '66 Palmer, Joseph,!
np"Butler, Rom.an, Joseph,
III., March 7, '05 ' Strickland, W. H.
ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-FOURTH INFANTRY.
( One Years Service.)
This regiment was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois,
February 21, 1865, under the call of December 19, 1864.
On the 24th inst., left by rail for Louisville, Kentucky ; ar-
rived at Nashville, Tennessee, on the 27th, where it was de-
tained by floods till .March 2d, when it went by rail to Mur-
freesboro. Remained here, doing picket and guard duty
till May 13th, suffering severely from exposure to cold rains.
Marched for Tullahoma, May 15th, remaining there until
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
227
June 11th, when it returned by rail to Nashville, Tennessee
Here it was put on picket, guard and garrison duty, and
many of the officers on courts martial and military commis-
sions. September IS, 1864. was mustered out at this point,
and on the 29th inst. it received final payment and dis-
charged at Camp Butler, Illinois.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
G-Juii.J. Major.
PraDcis Swanwick. mustered out
Lieut. Col. September 18, 1805
Principal Mmii
NOXCOMMISSIOSED ST.\FF.
aeob Mathews, absent ; sick a
nuster out of Regt.
. o. Sept. 18, 18t»,
ML'STtK ROLL COMPANY C.
Stcotid Limlenanl. Derousse, Joseph S., r
•^•.beneier M. Been, resigned May 19, '65 ■ Derousse, Peter K., m
, I assergdnnt
brrgcant. Derousse. Thomas, m
' *nry G. Gray, mustered out Juy. 22,*65 ' as corporal
„ , I Derousse, Henry C, m. o. Sept. 18, 'C5
Corporal.. ' Derousse, Emanuel, m. o. Sept. IS, '65
Archib.ild J.Luther, m. o.Sept. 18. 181,5 Guthrie, William M.
I'heohelis Boncherie, m. o. Sept. 18, 'Co Jackson, William, m. o. Sept 18, '(53
„ . , LaFlaur, Joseph, m. o.Sept 18, ISC".
""■"'"■ ' Lawvalle, Emirtii, m. o. Sept. 18, 18C5
\Ur >gge, Henry, died at Tullahoma, Mont'?ry, Antoin", m. o. Sept. 18, 1805.
Teim., June 8, 18'i.i Stockstill. JohnS., M. O.June m, '65
Boncherie Gdward, m. o. Sept. 18, 'lio Smallv, .\niiis, M. O. June lu, 1805
Dirousse, Louis B., m. o. Sjpl 18, 1805 Truit, George, M. O. June 10,1805
MUSTER ROLL C0MPAS7 F.
Fred'ck Trieft?, M O. lieut. Sep. 18, 'C.
Finl LictlteH'int.
James M. Malone, M Client. Sep.l8,'C5
S-^ond Lieutenant.
Harmond Hanson, .M. <>. as sergeant
September 18, 'Ci
Ferdinand B. Rotrnok, .M. O. Sep. 18.'G5
Nelson R. Grain, MO Sep. 18, 'Ri
William Gibson, M. O. August 21, 65
Carporlttjt.
Edmund VI. Crittenden. M. O. May 23.
18i'rf>, as sergeant
William C. Brown, M. O. Sept. IS. ■&:,
Wm B Tntum. M O. Sep. 18, '01, priv.
James W. Pettit. M. O. September 18.'05
Henrv Sternburz. .M. O. Sept 18. '65
Owen T. Crisler. >t. O .Mav 2>, '65
John M.;Menoni», M. 0."Sept. 18, 'i;"
Philip Rhinehardt
Pricn!es.
Anderson, William L., M. O.Sep. 18, '05
Anderson, Archb'ld T.. M. O.Sep. 18.05
Barker. LaCnvette, M. O. June Iip.'OS
Bureue, William, .M. O. Sept 18, '65
Beckman, Henrv, died at Tullahoma,
Tenn.. June s, '65
Broughtou, Lafv'tte W.,M.O.May22,'65
Brown, William H., M O. S.-pt. IK, 'la
Bjwman, Williiim J., M. <). S -pt. 18, '65
Bridgeman. Jackson. M o, S -pt. Is.'ai
Bridgeman, William F..MC). Sep. 18,'65
Bruch, Adam, M. O. Sept. 18. '65
Binuett, Henrv, M.O.September l«,'65
CrumwidW, Dedrich, M. O. Sep. 18, '65
Caldwell, William F., M. (). Sept. 18, '65
Cemmas, Jacob, M. O. Mav 23, 1865
Cochran, William M., M. O. Sep. 18, '(a
Crawford, William, d. at Jetfersonville,
Ind., September 'i. 18'.3
Cleary, Michael F., M. O. Sept. 18. 'lA
Crisler, William F., M. O. Sept. 18, '65
Casey, Henrv W., M. O. Sept. 18. '65
Couch, Milton. M. O. September 18. '65
Durkee. Alfred W.. ». O.. Sept. 18. "la
Donnldson, Alfred J., d. .Murfreesboro.
Tenn., Sept. 18. 1805
Evans. Edward, M. O. Sept. 18. '65
Eggamair, Fred, M. O. July 4, '65
Frajier, Samuel, M. O. Sept. 18. '65
Fray, Moses J.. M. O. Sept. 18, '05
Gordon, Parker, M. O. Sept. 18. ca
Gale. William J.ab.: sick at M. O. reg
Grossman, Henry, M. O. Sept- 18, "65
Glenn, Eliivi G.. M. O. Sept. 18. '65
Hei t. Henrv, .M. O., Sept. 19, '06
Holloman, \Villinm M., (1. at Murfrees-
boro, T.. March :t, 'iki
Ireland, Peter, M. O. Sept. 18, '65
Ireland, John J., d. at Murfreesboro,
Tenn., April 1:1. 05
Kramer. Andrew. M. O. Sept. 21, '65
Keller, Henrv, M., O. .Sept. is, '65
Kanemann, Henrv, M. O. Sept. 18, '65
Ki-llv, Nicliol;is W., M.O.Sep.18,6 .eorp.
Lawrence, ls;.a' H M. O. S.pt. 18, '65
Luckhar|>t, C;irl. ^I i' ^ftit is. ■(..'>
Louleryoune. i: 1 '.M ti - ir is, "to
Louis, Miclin.'l. M " - ir 1-.' ■ :.
Latfertv, Jam -s ,i , >1 1 1 ^ p is, ■.,.-,
Mi.spla' -
Ind., Feb.
IV. died at Murfreesboro,
, April 11,
ck at M. O. reg.
t. 18, ■■
May il, '65
M ■ I.:.. I ,:i, . M i.l. Mav 2:1, '65
M I I ■••n, I/., ri- ■ I. M. O.Sept. 19, '05
N.'<ri:.-s, Hoiirv, M. n.Sept. l,". '05
Nichyl, Alexander, M. O. Sept 18. '65
Owens, John, M. O. September 18, '05
Piers.n, William, M. OSept. 18, '61
-khill, Willmm. <lied at Murfrees-
Te
Ma
k, M. O. Sept. 18, '65
Rouse, James, M. O., Sept. 18, '05
Kiechmann. Henrv. M. O. Sept. 18, '05
Runge, Frederick." M. O. Sept. 18, '65
Stelle, William, M. O. Sept. 18, '65
S;vlk, Jacob, .M. O, Sept. 18, 'I'.i
Sheairer, John F., died at Tullahoma,
Tenn., June 2.1, '65
Smith, Joseph, M. O..Sept. 19. '05
Stiimpe, George. M. O. Sept. Vt, '65
Stiimpe. Il.ivi.l. M (). Sept. 19, 'I'vi
SlumtM . II.ii!\ .1 111 ...-icp. I9,'ii5, Corp.
Sehut,-. Will: .fi,. M 1 1 s:.pt. 19, '05
S-hul/ II in v\ M. O. Sep. 19, '05
Stop.-s. Wilh.in .1 . MO. Sept. 19, '65
Tocksteini Adolph^M. O. Sept. 18, '6S
Temple. Jame-. M. O.Sept. 18, 65
Trentliam. Absalom, M. O. Sept. 18, '65
Vowel. Willev. M. O. Sept. 7, '65
Wilson, George W. M. O. Sept. 18, '65
Weber, Lnui-. .M. O. Sept. 18, 'i>5
i Waters John N., M. O. Sept. 10, '65
i Woolschock, Thomas, M. O. Sep. 18, '65
Welge, Frederick
Welge, Conrad
Were. August
Worlev, Andrew
ONE HUNDRED AND FIFTY-FIFTH INFANTRY.
{One Year's Service.)
This regiment was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois, by
Colonel Gustavus A. Smith, and mustered in February 28,
1865. March '2d, the regiment, !*04 strong, moved via
Louisville and Nashville, to Tullahoma, Tennessee, and was
assigned to the command of Brevet Brigadier General Dud-
ley. In June the regiment was divided into detachments,
numbering twenty or thirty men each, and assigned to guard
duty on the Nashville and Chattanooga railroad, occupying
the block houses from Nashville to Duck river, a distance
of fifty miles. Was mustered out of service September -Ith,
and moved to Camp Butler for final payment and discharge.
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
Ml'STER ROLL COMPANY A.
Noah Smith, M. O. Sep.4,'65, as private
Corporalt.
Harrison, Talbot, M. O. Sep. 4, '65
John H. Skidmore, M. O. Sept. 4, '05
Fiiilev, James, M. O. Sent. 4, '04
Hamrnell, Frederick, M. O Sept. 4, '66
Kennedv, John, M. O. Sept, 4, '64
McLashin, James, M. O. Sept. 4, '65
Muelbach, C.nrad, M. O. Sept. 4, '55
Skidmore, John B., M. O. Sept. 4, '65
Skidmore, James, M. O. Sept. 4, '65
Skidmore, Andrew J., Sept. 4, '65
Spurgeon, Lewis, M. O. Sept. 4, '65
Snyder, Cliristopher, pro. 2d LieuL
MKN FROM MONROE COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY A.
F<rat Lieutenant.
George Schuerman, M. O. Sept. 4, '65
Sergeants.
August Mund, M. O. Sept. 4, '05
John Kimmick , M. O. Sept, 4, '65
Curpomtf.
H Elgner. M. O. Sept. 4, '65 as private
Jacob Shellhardt, M. O. Sept. 4, '65, as
private
Prirn/CT.
Crum. Peter. M. O. Sept. 4, "05
Fisher, Charles, M. O. Sept. 4, '65
Glanzer, Chailes, .M. O. Sept. 4, '05
SEiOND CAVALRY REGIMENT — MEN FROM PEKRY COUNTY.
{Three Yean' Service.)
MUSTER ROLL COMPA.W E.
K.rnii(.—Gailiek, George W., trans, to 12 III. for promotion, Dec. 4, '62.
FIFTH CAVALRY REGIMENT.
( Three Years' Serciix. )
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY K.
n''ijoner.
Robert Dale, M. O. Oct. 31, 04
orge, M. 6. Sept. 4, '05
Kobb, John M (1. Sept. 4, '0.% as enrp'l
Keidell, Trongnit, M. O. Sept. 4, '65
Kreiscr, AuKUSt. M. O. Mav 2:!, '05
Kramlcch, J>ic..b, M. O Sept. 4, '05
; Quick, William, MO. Sept. 4, '65
i Reinhold, Loreni, M. O. Sept. 4, '05
R.issnmn, Andrew, M. O. Sept. 4. '65
I Setlick, Thomas, M. O. Sept. 4, '65, oa
I wagoner
Steinkamph, Fred'k, M. O Sept, 4, '65
I Schmidt I'eter, M 0. Sept. 4, '65
1 Weber, Peter, M. O. Sept. 4, '65
I Zusan, Henry, M. O. Sept. 4, '65
17, '63,
Wil.ly, Henr.v, M. O. Oct. 21, '05,
1st
Recruit.
n, Eugene,d. Dec. 4, '64
sergeant
Cunninghac
FIFTH CAVALRY.
{Three Years' Service.)
This regiment was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois, in
November, 1861, and Hall Wilson was appointed Colonel.
Randolph county was largely represented in the Fifth as
will appear from the subjoined roster. February 20, 1862,
went to Benton Barracks, St Louis, Mis.souri, and March
3d moved to Pilot Knob, and thence to Doniphan. April
1st skirmished with the enemy, capturing three camps, kill-
ing tliree and taking seven prisoners. Arrived at Jackson-
port, June 27th, and joined Curtis' armv and marched to
Helena. October 22d, Lieut. Elliott and seventy eight men
were ciptured after losing one man killed and six wounded.
In June, 186;}, made a reconnoisance to Mcchanicsburg,
drove the enemy ten miles, skirmishing heavily, capturing
forty-three prisoners, and losing one man killed and seven
wounded. August 21st, encountered Blytlie's rebel cavalry
at Coldsvater and defeated them, losing one man killed and
five wounded. In October, took part in thecalvalry charge
at Brownsville, routing General Adams. January 1 1864,
many of the regiments re enlisted as veterans. February
27th, Colonel John McConnell assumed command of the
regimeut. At this time eight companies were dismounted
228
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
for garrison duty. During the month of September the
battalion was at Jackson and Port Gibson, engaged in fre-
quent skirmishing. The Fifth Calvalry with the Third
United States Calvalry, charged the enemy near Woodville,
driving him in confusion and capturing three cannon. Re-
turned to Vicksburg, October 11th, and thereafter spent
several mouths skirmishing. In January went on an expe-
dition to southern Arkansas, and northern Louisiana, re-
turning February loth. July 1st, moved to Te.xas via Red
river, arriving at Hempstead, Texas, August 2Gth. Mus-
tered out at Springfield, October '27th, and received final
payment and discharge, October 30, 1865.
MKN FROM R.\NI)OI,ril COUXTV.
Jlf.ijur.— JamLS l':iniani, vesig'd Sopt. 30, 04
NON-COM M ISSIONED ST.4FF.
Sngeuril Majur. JLtsyilal Stewanls.
James W. Marklinm, M. O. Mch. 2, '(iS Thnmna S. M.inision, disch.Oct. 31, .(.i,
Q. M. Sercieimts. Mim'ifi'i;d''vV. Uolrook, M. 0. June Ij, r,5
J osepli Neville, disch. Out. 31,04; tf-rm
expired ytlcrinary Sttrgeonft.
llnstlev T..vfra,disch. Ort.2fi, 'i;2
Commt.<sar:i Sergeant. .|„|,„ G. Cnlvill, d. Hempstcild, Tex:is
George W. Bean, disch, Jan. — , 'G.I. Sept. li;,"iio
MUSTER ROLL CO.MPANY H.
Scrond Lkutenant. i Kns=, David, tians. to V. B. C, July 29.
Wm. H. Pinc-kerton, M. O. Got. iT, '05. r„sV, Thomas, vet.-
Scholhii-, Jan
Pel rales. Aug. 1, '04
Hare, Jno., vot. d. at Memphis, Julv
24 'C,-) Canith, Wm.
M.Lmwcll, Alexander, vet. M. O. Oit. Jl.Cluiken,
White, Uilli:
27, '
vet. M. O. Oi-
M1.',?TER ROLL CO.MP.IN'
Coptnin!,. Mn,„-. «
James Nesbit, died near Hempstead, v'^'".','',
Te.NU", Sept. .% Mii .\.il , 1."
William C. Addison, HL II. as IM Lieut ,''/'''''
Oct. 27, '65 j; '; , l'"^'-
Fir^t Liciil.uriiil. >\,\."".,
Charles J. Childs.resig, Jan, II, T,:! -< i-'
Siconrf l.hDl-vnnt. '-. _ , .
William Maxwell. 31, C), Oct. 27, 115 \ >
Ce.mpmmQ. M.Serge.ml. .ii>, • ■
Cliarles C. Anderson, M. O. Ont. 31, •|;4 Bovd, R.i
Ser.jeiwtt. p.l.;ri;i,iii
Jame.s W. MeQuiston, 31. O. Ort.:!l.'ii4 ( h,,,l,.|i,
c..rp.,r..h. '■;;;;i„,".
William Ft'."'"'!' rliseh. Jtine 4, '02, ri'iinil.T
•.<■, ool-p'l.d. at Vieksbu
Recriiits.
vet , 31. O. Oot. 2T, T,:.
amuel. M. O. Jlav 24, '
II, .M. O.June 1,5. -1,5
■ lied Sept, 21, '63
.li die. I June i;, '02
,iet , M. (I. Orl. 27,
as I I- i ■. ! ■
Peter I .
Saniu, , - \
Alex;, II. 1^1 .
Louis J. L'a
M,
' .. T. 31. '(',4, private i
; dAug. 13,'P2 1
31.0. net. ol, '04 i
I. Oct. 31. '04 I
Ijowtlier, Robert, mustered out Oct.'
, 51. O. Oot.
John T., die.l Oc
Buyler.
John F. Farnan, disch. Oct. 15, 'C2
disability
SoAdler.
Hciirv Hildy or WiW\
21, 05, as 1st Seig'l
FuveUes.
Boudonot, Tobias, died Jan. 24,
accidental wounds
Breiihaupt, Frederick C, trans
V. R, c. Aug. 1, '03 w K. .1.. ■/, . . .■: iM,.j
Burk, John \f ., vet., 51, O. Oct. 27, '05 Mii,,). , ..i-.,
asserg't .M. i .in.i. j, ,, , '.\ ,i .M,n .':;, 1805,
Beiatt, Vestal, disch. May 3, '62, di.sab. 31. ( ;.ii.u iji. , .\K .\.;ii.u i, i,i. u! 3Iav 25,
Chrismann.Peter, vet., M.O. Oot, 27,'6i 1S05.
Conant, Sullivan, died Sept. 30, '02 5IcLaughlin, 5tichael E., died Julv 8.
Douglas, Lancev, vet, died Sept. 3&, '62 1804.
Doniiil, Edward, vet : McEldry, Samuel, m, o, Oct. 27, 1865.
Fulton, Robert, vet., 51. O, Oct. 27, '65, Ogdeu. John, died while absent sick.
asserg'i I Petit. Natli.an C. m. o, Oct, 27, 1805.
Fraiislo. Fniz Perry, William, dischargedSept.3, 1803,
, 1S65.
. 1S65.
Gordon, Andr.w J., M. O. Oct. 31, '04
Gral.niii r...l't \. t , M. O. Oct.27, '04
Girlev, M , \. i , 31. O.Oct. 27, '04
HardniL'.r, Ai..li.u , vet, M. O. Oct. 27,
di>ahi
James. 1
Keys, Hi
Kr"mvi.
King, R.
Lawler,
■.I Sort 5, '01
'.iln.k II , .I... I .
innl>..ii 1 , .I1..I .l.ilv I'l, '.;;
ij.le, Fr. .1 1., .I,..l >..|it. -.LX -
il.erl.M u. Lict..)!. '04
.Nicholas, M. O. Oct. 31, '04
Wound
Toorea, Elias.
Tiiomas,. David V
iliiiiiu, Jr., dud .Nov. 7, ISO:).
W llliam. m. o, Oct. 27, 180.5,
Emanuel, died July 5, 1865,
SIXTH CAVALIiY Ei;i:IMENT.
( Three Years' Service )
This regiment was organized at Camp Butler, Illinois,
November 19, 1861, and soon after left for the field of ac-
tion. At Columbus, Kentucky, it «as divided into three
detachments, which during the spring and summer of 1862,
operated against the guerrillas. At Dyersburg, Tennessee,
and Olive Branch and Coldwater, Mississippi, it met with
signal success, with a loss of two men killed, six wounded
and one taken prisoner. Early in the fall of 1862, the de-
tachments were re-united at Memphis, and November 26th,
constituted the advance of General Sherman's army in its
movements south toward Grenada. January, 186.S, it went
into winter quarters at La Grange, Tennessee, and did good
service against the numerous bands of partisan rangers in
that region.
Thus engaged, on one occasion, it surprised and routed
Richardson's command, near Covington, Tennessee, captur-
ing their entire camp equipage. March 29th, a detachment
gallantly repulsed a superior force by which it was surprised
at midnight. Gen.W. S. Smith issued an order compliment-
ing the officers and men for their gallantry.
April, 1863, it was engaged in the expedition which, un-
der Col. B. H. Grierson, made the famous tour through
Jlississippi and Louisiana, traveling about eight hundred
miles. At Port Hudson, Louisiana, June 3d, it had a
heavy engagement with the enemy and lost two killed, four
wounded and three taken piisoners. Near Jlascow, Tennes-
see, December 4, 186.'), it took part in a heavy engagement
sustaining a loss of five killed, six wounded, twenty prisoners
and two missing. March 30, 1864, the regiment re-enlisted
as veterans. August 13th, it was engaged at Hurricane
creek, Mississippi, as a part of Gfneral Forrest's command.
After skirmishing for several days with Hood's army along
the Tennessee river, a brisk engagement of five hours fol-
lowed, at Lawrenceburg. It took an active part in the bat-
tle of Franklin ; arriving at Nashville, Tennessee, the last
of November, l.'^64. December loth and 14th, it partici-
pated in the cavalry charge, capturing nine pieces of artil-
lery and a ntimber of prisoners. It was mustered out of
service November o, 186.5, receiving final payment and dis-
charge at Springfield, Illinois, November 20, 18G5.
MEN FROM PERKY COUKTY.
Lieutenant Colonel. — Reuben Loomis, killed Nov. 2, 1863.
NON-C05I5IISSIONED STAFF.
SnAHer.— David 51. Fligor, m. o. Nov. 5, 1865.
5IUSTER ROLL C05IPANy C,
Corporal. Privutt
Robert L. Yancey, m. c
Sergeant,
1865 as
Ml:STER ROLL CO.MPANV I
Captains.
Thomas W. Lippincott, resigned July 0,
1863
Wesley F. Fallon, m. o. Nov. 5, 1805.
First Lieutenants.
James H. Gordon, resigned April 25,
1802.
Benjamin F. Guiteau, dismissed Dec. Geo. W. i
28, 1803. George I
. (as 2d Lieut.) ' Lawrenc
, Hiram P
Caleb H. Throp.
Isaac N. East.
John G. Fulton,
private.
Oct. 14, 1804,
HISTORY OF RAyDOLPIT, MOXROE AND PERRY COUXTIES, ILLIXOIS.
229
Calvin Branile
AHritis, Isaao n . m. o. Dec. 10, 18fi4.
Bmn.lon, Mnrlin V. Ti.
Willinm, m. o. Dor. in, 1<!G4.
. o. Dee. 10, ISOl.
Cnmpbell,
Clnrk, 0..n. 11 . m
Dye, Willinm M.
Emmerson. .T.ithn
Henekley,i;oo. E., m. o. Xov. 17, 18«
Hill. .Tohn r... m. o. Nov. 17,1801.
Hill Riehnrd
Horn, fhnrles
Hose, Davi.l .v.. m. o. Oct. 11, 18C4.
Kelloes. rii.irie.s
I,neev,.I..hn
MeKinney. .Tolin F. O.
Peck. .I.««.ph v.. m. n. Xov. IT, 18*^4
Porter. I.a'iren U.
Kentfrow. Knnel,
tllicksmilli.
.lolin n. JlcUcnry, m. o. Nov. ,i, IBM.
Ptivalts.
Hell, DiinicI, m. o. Nov. r., IRW.
lila.Kljiun, Joseph M., m. o. Nov. 6,
ISI..'..
BiKkles, .Samuel, m. o. Nov. .■>, lsc."i.
Cliirk. James 1\, ni. o. Nov .% 1,SC5, a.s
Serjeant.
Dve, Tlioma.s, rliseli. at Decatur, Ala.
Fligor, James K., m. o. Nov. ,% 18C.i, as
i Hickman, Thomas J., m. o. Nov..'),18io.
Moore, HuKh, m. o. Nov. 5, I80J
i Pyle, Tliomas, m. o. Nov. 3, 1805, as .Scr-
Veant.
Robinson, Georpe H. m. o. Nov. 5, ISCl.
Stenger, Louis, killed at Bulortl,Tenn.
Dee. 24, 18i;4.
i'ljre, Boone, m.o. No
■. 3. 180.5.
s18li.5.
. 5, lSii.S
, .5, 18r..i.
, Willi;
H.
.No
Strgcanls.
Jonathan G. Clark, m. o. Nov. .■;, 1SC.5.
^atllau C. Slcbbtii», 111. o. Nov. 3, 1803
lijt Sergeant.
.. 14(15.
'mphis
t'ofponilg.
I .■leni;iii, Elijah .M., m. o. Nov. :
Uavi.lson. Henry
Desonier, .loseph, died at M
May 8. 1K,4.
Giav! John L.
lienning, .Mbert O.. m. o. June IT, 1803.
Paea, Joseph, m. o. Nov. 5. 18G.3.
Harii-av, William D., died at Memphis
S.-pl.V., 1SI14.
I!i.-liie, Van
Nov. 5, 1805 1
Kola
neca
. No
Samuel Moore,
5,180.5. ■ Wilks, William
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY L.
John J. Clark, m. o. Nov. .-., lsr,3. i'nV<./f.-Pellam. Joh
ML'STER ROLL COMPANY .M.
Prk^ilKS. JtfCruilf.
Ballard, lohn | Herner, Lawrence
Haiiett. Tin
King, Geoiu
Itiici.ic. V»
Bur
n, Saiul. H.. k. Mempliis Aui:
Pace, W e.-lev S.
SliH-,(i..l,lman, veteran.
W liUe, Tiniuthv, ni. o. Nov. 5, 186.>.
cliibald
MEN FROM MONROE COUNTY.
Jir.STEl: ROLL COMPANY B.
i(<-cru(«.— Smith, .laeoh, died Aug. LI, ISM, wounds
TWELFTH CAVALRY REGIMENT.
Tlirrc )Vrtr.^' J^'cfrice.
Ml'.srER ROLL CO.MPANY B.
FurnVr.— Daniel Faus, .liscliarv'e.l for disahilities.
Ml'STKlt nOLL COXirAXV U.
flMTBiVi.— Dalton, James, mustered out Nov. .i, 1803.
Felltoii, John II , ni. o. Noveiiiljer 3, IbOj.
MfSTF.l! EOLL COMl'ANV I.
Btci-Ki/.— Robertson, James, dieil at Memphis, June 14, 18c;4.
IXASSIOXED liKCKVlTS.
Robinson, James, m. o. )L'>y -21, ISIm. | Ward, George, mustered out May 21, 1803,
SEVENTH CAVALRY.
{Three Yearg' Seriler.)
The Seventh Cavalry was organized in September. 1^01,
with William P. Kellogg as colonel. Randolph county
was represented in it, as the appended roster will show, by
a considerable number of men. The regiment participated
in many of the important engagements of the war, and bore
an honorable and important part in each.
MEN FROM UANDOLPH COUNTY.
MUSTEH KOI.I. CO.Ml'A.SY M.
OiplmM. 1 <3. -V- Srrgea,ii.
John P. LudwifT, resiRned May 2R, 1S02 ' John A. Ritz, disc. Oct. 1, '02; sereeant
BernhardC. Janssen,resgnd. Jne. 1,'iM , ...
Charles Stoll, mustered out Nov. 4, '03 Sergeanls.
y rst Li'utetinut.
John Nicholson, m. o. November 4, 'Oi
Sfcoud LientemtHlt.
John H. Jlever, resigned May 'JS, 1802
Henry Nieholsun. died October II', la
Charles Valier. declined commission
August Lesaire, mustered out Nov.4,'0;
First Sfrgeanl.
Thaddeus C. S. Barker, disc, .hi
M.
i He
y Neuber, m. o. October 13, 1SS4
Jacob Zimpleman. disc. ^ray20,'fi2; pvt
Charles Hatlicrt, in. o. October 13, 04
William H. Foley, vet., mustered out
1 November 4, '05 as sergeant
10,02 Philip Thon.discGet. 7, '02; disability
William licckmcier, disc. June 1.5, '02; Ratlicrl, Frederick, tran.=. to V. R. C.
disal.ilitv .luiie 21, 18114
Charles Wiking, m. o. Oct. 1.5. '04; serg Ratlierl, Henry, m. o. April 24, "65; pris.
Henry Idecker, Vet., mustered out war
N«»vember 4, '05, as sereeant. Ros.-meir. Frederick, trans, to V. R.C.
Jacob Koenigsteiu, disc. April in, '0.1 as April 2s. lsi,4
sergeant; disability Pcliiirliar.il, rhas. vet . m. o. Nov. 4, '05
Sippel. H.-Iiiv,.|. luAlldels.invillepriS
Hi'illn-s. St.iek, Cliarh-s, trans, to V. H. C. Aug.
Daniel Fiekies. mustered out Oct.l.5,'il4 2, 1«H
Henry iinukenbriiig, diedat St. Louis Scli.aefer, Stephen, vet., mustered out
December 2, 1802
ll.iiry l:
tier, d. in Ande
Dlnrk^mirh.
rsonville pris
Louis Va
n Cohen, yet., m
Si'iilUr.
.O.Nov. 4, '03
liber -i, 181.5, as eorponil
Schliehner, J..hu, v.-t., mns.ered out
Nr.vcmb.r 1. 18.1.5, as Serg.'aut
Sira.-Uli.-ili, Louis, ni. o. April 21,1805,
Starr, .loseph, vet., absent ; sick at m.
o. of Keist.
Siehcit. Henry C, d. in Andersonvillo
pri-.ii, .\.iv. 10, 18.14; No. grave 12,'ili5
Herman Mueller, m. o. October 15, '04 Scliimeii;al]. Fi ..Icrii.k, d. at Jackson,
I'.imla. ■l\-llll.. rt.-pl. 22. 181.2
Scliw^ulz. .l.i-.-pii. m. o. 1.5. 1801
S.-li\v:ii u, Aii.lr.w. .1. in Ander.sonville
pri^.iii .\tit:..s. Isti4; No. ofgrave 01U3
SheiKTl, A.Iain, in. o. ' let. 1.5, '01: corp
S.-liiiei.ler, Jacob, trans. toV.K. C. Aug.
2.I.S04
I.' I ..., 1 i.,i. \t;„ o„. (,,.c. Thmn. Got(leil).m. o. Oct.1.5, 18i;4
Ba.''.;!lla\Ti!'rmiiste;e;iomif.tll" Tillman, George, .li.-lat .St. Louis Aug.
^'7:ii:"!:i^''-Uu::!'^':^>''^o^f^l1^i V.niiercharles, pris. war. com. 2d
Mile pn.>. .Inn..... 1.4: .No. (rinie 1...8 i ,...., ,-,.„ ,„„',.;,',. ,.i..„„ „„n,i.,.,, i,,,.
.VHen. Miner E.. mustered out .\pril i:'.,
1.S03; pris. «ar
Andeiuaii. G.-..rge. vet., died at Mem-
phis November -2.5. 1804
Blaltiicr. S^iniuel, m. o. April I.?, l..iC3
4.1s
Blitz, John, niusteied out Oct. 1.5. 1804 ,
Blatter. Riui.lolpli, m. ... Jan. 10, 1805;
P1110I...1 pri,.,ner
Im. IcT, Casper, vet., m. o. Nov. 4, 1.SC.5,
I'ii k. i.'l'ijiir.id, d. in Andersonville
I ii-.iu SL-,,t. 17, lsi;4; No. ginieniiTii
I. Niiiiro,l,d. in Anderson vilk- oris.
I-.. , I i.-.leri.-k, in.o. oeiobcr 1.5, IsiU
I II! 1 li..la....l.. liiil.teredolllOct.l.5,'.14
I - : . !..l..hn. vet., m. o. N..v. 4,180.5
'. ; . ir. I liail.-s, m. o. Oei.iI.er 1.5. l.S.;3
.. in..n.l. lleiirv..lisc. Feb. l.i,'i«:dsl.lty
H :i~i. I. Ueriiiaii. tn. o. 0.-tol.,-r 1.5. '04
llii.:.i:.:iii. Ernst, vet., disc. Dec. 3, '04:
<I|~mIi||||
Ji.lin.1. li:i
,I..-pl,. .1.,
not mu-lered; m. o. .^lav 1:*. '05; serg
V.-iL'ht. Dr. Franz L.. dis.^. N..v T, 1801;
disability
W,-l.er.Ja.ob.disc..Iilnel.5, 'i^Jiilisblty
Wi.-hel. John, d. at St. Louis, .510., Aug.
4, I,<r.3
Wilson. Fred. disc. Oct. 31. 1802:rtshliy
Wiehl, Fri'.leri.U..l. at Amlersonville
prison Aug. 0. 18.14: No. ofgrave 3138
7?«ri'it«.
vi.l. disc. Oct. (1. •i'.2; di..'blty
liii. m. ... July 8. '05; .«eret
Fr..l.-ii.'k, .1. at St. Loiiis,
Mm., I-'.bi iiaiy 22. lsO,T Ballhafer. Ernst, m. o. Nor. 4, '0.5
Kill.-rii.aii. William, .lisc. Oct. 0,1802; Brewer. Charles .~.. m..i. N..v.4.'o3: corp
. Her
vet., t
Ba
|.ri..u
Henry, il. in .indersouville
Fie.le
Kr.ise. llcnrvC...lise.Sept 1.5,i,2;dsbh
K...-ni4rsl.Mii; .Mi.d.ael. .1. at La'-'ianue. Hi • . ^•. . :.
Tenii., M:.i.-h.s.lMi:i - r
K...'ll. William, ili-c. o.-r r.. 'i 2; .lisl.Iiv 11
Klapper. I l.rl-li:.ii. in. ... o.t. 15. l.s.ir K
.M.iiih..ltz. H.-urv. ni. .1. .\..v. l,-.;4; seru' K
M:.ii.l.-rliel,l, J.ihii, m. o. October I.5.'04 LiiiiiiP.hi. W
Mc'ilc.-. Henry, vet., m.o Nnv.4,'S5,as .lisabilitv
Loliiing. l-'rederiek, ilisc. April IS, 'OS;
. m. o. Nov. 4, "05
at m. o. of Regt.
. in. o. Nov. 4, 180.5
ick.m..>. Nov.4,'(>5
•. Nov. 4, 1803
N..V. 4. 180.5
ill. disc. Oel. C, '02;
JI.
I'.l -t. .M.-lehior. vef„m.o. Nov. 4, isi',3 , I. I'l
l',.i.-T. rasper, disc. Nov. — . 'la: dsbltv I; i i.l
l;..-.,i;....rge.di.sc. April ll..'i;3: dsbltv , ,n ,., ,. i ,. , ; j. ,.,,
liathert. Cut, vet., m.o. Nov. 4.'0-5:corpl Wiililii.iiui.. i:iii.-l., ii.. ».. Nov. 4, 1803
Ratheit, H. William, dise.0et.31, 1802, Witte, Frederick, m. o. November4,05
disability Weniz, George, m. o. November 4, l!Oi
TWELFTH CAVALRY' REGIMENT.
(Three Years' Service.)
The Twelfth was organized in February, ^^Cy2, at Chicago.
Arno Vo.ss being its first colonel. In pursuance of general
orders issued March 2d, it was consolidated into an eight
company organization.
MEN FROM PEURY COUNTY.
.MUSTER ROLL. COMPANY A.
/'.■.rn(r«.—Brenizer. Charles G., trans, to Co. C as consolid.ated. Disc. Aug. 23,
180.5, di.-abilitv veteran.
Passmore, Francis, transferred to Co C.
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY C.
Scr,jraut. Reason. John W , Vet., trans, to Co. C
„ ^1 , r. .. . -IS consoli.iated. M. O.
Breni/.iT, Charles G., Vet. Russell, B. 51
Pi-jVrt/^* i W'ils.m, Wm., Vet., died at Baton
/iirorrt. Rouge, Li., Oct. 23, 1804.
Blakemore, James. i Worth'ing Joshua
Costelton, John, Vet., refused to muster ;
Davis, Jas., Vet., trans, to C.>. C as con-
soli.iated. ' RecraOt.
L.anea.ster Nelston, died at Camp But | oieason, David.
ler, lll.,.Mar.h2ii.i.s.i2. i Wilson, Jackson, Jr.
Passmore, Wm.,(iie.l at. Vnnapolis.Md., ' *
Oct. 30, 1,803. Wounds. Vna,si,r,td BccTuit.
Reason, David, Vet., trans, to Co. C as *
consolidated. M. O. Cor. .May 29, 1803. Covington, John.
230
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
nsolidated. Died at Browns
TENTH CAVALRY REGIMENT.
(Three Years' Service.)
MUSTER ROLL. COMPANY D.
fiecnii*.— Taokett, .lames H , trana, to Cc
Ark., Feb. 10, 18i«.
THIRTEENTH C.4^VALRY.
(Three Years' Serviee.)
This cavalry regiment was organized at Camp Douglas,
Illinois, in December, 1861, by Col. J. W. Bell. It was
armed and equiped at Benton Barracks, Missouri, February,
1862. It was on duty in southeast Missouri, until June 1,
1862, when it joined General Curtis' command at Jackson-
port, Arkansas, and moved with it through that State, re-
turning to Missouri in the fall of 1862. It was with Gen-
eral Davidson in the campaign of southwest Missouri, driv-
ing Marmaduke and his command from the State In July,
186.3, it moved with that commander into Arkansas, and
had the honor of first entering Little Rock, after its cap-
ture, September 10, 1863. In the spring of 1864, it accom-
panied General Steele in the expedition to Camden. It was
engaged the balance of the year in scouting, raiding.and
picketing. After this it did guard duty until it was mus-
tered out August 31, 1865. It received final payment and
discharge at Springfield, Illinois, September 31, of that
year.
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY.
Lieulen.iiil-Cohiid.— Stephen Wetmure, disc. Deo. 31, 1884.
NON-COMMISSIONED STAFF.
Chief Biij/h-.— Hugh Smitli, disr
Sadrller Sergenut.—Btivid C. Stedl
ML'STER ROLL. COMPANY D,
Cu,,tai.: : U.ilXTt.s,,n, .Toll
Zebedee P. Curlee, m. o. Sept. 10, ISiH. „;V'".t •'■;,-'■ l?'"
ns. to Co. F. M.
i.i Lkulei
Sept. 10,
\ng. 31. 1805,
Austin, Wni. A., m o
BeneSiot" .loliii, m. o. Aug. 31 , ISfio ,
Bolton, Tlionias F., died at Benton B ks 1 l-i'
April a, ISM.
Earles, Robert, m. o. Aug. 31, isro.
Fa's Alex., trans, to Co. H. Died at
Camp Bntler, 111.. March lo, 1864.
Hester, Reuben, m.o. Aug. 31, 180o.
Hiekersnn, William, m. o. Aug, 31,180.5.
Kent, Wm. M., died at Pine Bluff, Ark.,
Sept. 20, 1864.
Mathews, Bevf
Robe, ts.in, Wm. H , m. o. Aug. 11. 180.n.
Srono', Andrew, die.l at Pine Bluff,
Ark, .Julv .30, 1864.
Stuart, David C, m. o. Aug 31, 186.5.
Williams, Christopher, disc. June 25,
18IU.
Recriiila.
11, Fred,, r
Craig, Wm. A. m
Fallon, Don C ,
Corporal.
Fallon, Georzel
(irifHn, Benianii
H.-t.-r. .l.iliH, in
uKhl..
Iraus. to Co. H.
ins. to Co. H.
i'ngh, fhom'as. died at Camp Butler,
III,, Feb. 13, 1864.
Pugh, Bales, killed near Pine Bluff,
Feb. n, 1860.
JIUSTER BOLL, COMPANY E.
P, iidlc— Peel, Daniel T.
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY P.
o. June 16, 186.5.
Aug. 31, 1865.
. o. Aug. 31, 1865,
Aug. 31, 186.5,
1. Aug. 31, 1865.
Ninian E. Orten, in. o. Aug. 31. 18ii5.
First Li'-ntentJtitB.
Benjamin H. Crain, died Aug. 10, 1864,
Wm. E. Sparron, m. o. Aug. 31, 18C,%
Secmi Lieiitemtnt.
Wm. S. Junkins, m. o, as Sergeant,
Aug. 31, 186.5.
FirtI .'ScgmiU.
Wm. E. Sparron, promoted 2d Lieut.
Co7n. Scrrjeatit.
William Yates, Jr, died at Pine Bluff,
Ark., Feb. 25, 1SG5.
Sergeants.
Thus. Hammock, priv., trans, to Co. C.
M. O. Aug, 31, 18C5.
Samuel Sfiaffcr, m. o Aug. 31,1865.
William Rue, m.o. Aug. 31, 1865.
Jonathan Chiles, died Pine Pluff, Ark.,
Dec. 16, 1864.
James N. Mahar, m. o. Aug. 31, 1865, as
private.
Citrporah.
Joseph H. Gr.aham, m. o. Aug. 31, 186.5,
as Sergeant.
Cvrns W. Lind.say, trans, to Co. D. M.
'O, Aug. 31, 1805, as Sergeant.
Samuel Evans, died at Tamaroa, 111.,
Nov. 20. 1864.
John McKee. m. o. Aug 31, 1.865.
John F. Hunt, died at Pine Bluff, Ark.,
Feb. 7, 1865
John W Dobbins, m. o. Aug 31, 1865.
J.mathan J. Howell, died Aug. 28, 1804,
Wounds.
James J. Elans, m.o. Aug. 31, 1865, as
■ Sergeant.
PriviiUn.
Anderson, William, disc. Oct 7, 1802.
Disability.
Brownlee, Win, R., m. o. Aug. 31, 1865.
Baughman, George M. m.o. Aug. 31,
1865.
Baker, Newton, G., m. o. Aug. 31, 1865.
Bardness, Abram,m. o. Aug. 31,1865.
Barclav. Wm. G,, m. o. Aug. 31, 1865, as
rd, John W., m. o. Aug. 31, 1865.
us, J.ames, m. o. Aug. 31, 18B5.
IS Joseph, m. o. Aug. 31. 1865.
stian, Archibald, died Pine Bluff,
Iv 7, 1804.
■. r, Samuel E., m. o. Aug. 31, 186,5.
man, John L., died at Alton, III.,
av 3, 1864.
;, William M., died at Camp But-
-.111.. Feb. 5, 1864.
■v, Henrv, C, m. o. Aug. 31, 1865.
es W., m. o. Aug. 31, 1865.
Pugh, A>i
, Aug
31, 1865.
Penear, James 1., m. o. Aug. 31, 1865.
Provins, Wm. S., Disc. net. 8, 1804.
Rice, William H., m. o. Aug. 31, 1866.
Ridgwav, Edw'd, d. atPine Bluff, Ark.,
Aug. 9, 1864
Ridgwav, Robert C, m. o. Aug. 31. 1865.
Raider.'William, m. o. March 8, 1865.
Renfro, Mark W., m. O.Aug. 31, 1865.
Sterling. J. R., ra. o. Aug. 31, 1865, as Cor.
Sams, Benj. F., trans, to Co. D. Disc.
March 4, 1865, as Sergeant.
Thos. W., m.o., Ang. 31,1865 Stilly, gilas, M. O. Aug. 31, 18Gi
Dixon, Wm., m. o. Aug. 31, 1865.
Deason, John B., m. o. Aug. 31, 1865.
Falls, James A., died at Pine Bluff,
Oct. 12, 1864.
George, James L., m. o. Aug, 31, 1865.
" ih H, Ml. II Aui; 31,1,865,
Hnlrlungs.I'ihii
Harris .Ii.lin ,\I ,
Hall. Wm, \ ,.iie
Julv 10, 1864.
Hardsock, James
Hester, Thomas,
Hugs, Peter.
Johnson, Mordec
Kennisou, Thorn
,11, IS
;l, isi,
. 1864.
Lawliead.Wm,, m. o. Ang. .31, 1865.
Marlow, Aiex., died at Pine Bluff, Aug.
31, 1864.
Murphy. John, m. o. Ang. 31, lsn.5. Morniw, \
Miller, James N., Pro. Asst. Surg. 07th Malkey, Isi
III. Inftv. :i isiu
McKee, James, m. o. June, 11, 186,5. .i:!.. :- r.
Marshall, Theophilus, died at Pine s: '>
Bluff, Aug. 6, 1865. II
Mahar, Joseph, m. o. Aug. 31, 1865. \\ li n -, I
Nailer, Christian, died at Camp Butler, W .liji, W n
III,, Feb, 6,1804. Yeaiian, Fi
Thomp'son, Jaa. d. Pine Bluff, Ju 18, '64
Tolbert, Sherrod W., died Camp Butler
Feb. 11, 1864
Tinsley. John M., M. O. Aug, 31, 1865
Tavlor, Henrv. M, O. Aug, 31, 1865
Tavliir. .n.lin M , M O, ,Iune 20. 1865
Tiii^K.v, Isaiah, M O Aug, 31, 1865
■ri,,..st..r, (ieorg.-, M II, Aug, 31.1865
■|'li..iij|.siiii, Henrv, .M, O, Ang. 31. 1865
Tucker, Henry .M. O. June 20, 1865
Walter, Clifton M. O. Aug. 31, 1865
Ward, Daniel, died Brownsville, Arfc.,
June 14, 1884
Rcr.jllits.
Crane, R.anson N., M. O. Aug. 31, 18«5
Cross, William E., M. O. Aug. 31, 1865
Crump, Chas. M. M. 0. Aug. ,31, 1865
Hotchkiss, Alex., M. O. June 211, 1865
Morrow. Wm. J., M. O. Aug. 31, U65
c N. died Pine Bluff, Aug.
r !l,l;'5
\'rj : 1 . 1 S65
\ii- i>, 1864
Aug, 31, 1865
MI'STER ROLL, COMPANY
Second Ucutc'-ttnt.
. M. Weaver, m. o. Sergt, Ang, 31
Boswell, James R., tr. Co. D m. o. Aug.
31, 186.5 as Corpl.
Bryant, Wm,, d. Camp Bntler, Feb. lo,
1864
Rapalyed, Daninl, m. o, June
as Com, Sergt.
ShetllewojIh.SamI,, m. o. Ang
Watson, G. W., trans, to Co.
June 20, 186.5
Wooduaril, Gilbert, tr. to Co.
31, 186,1
20, 1865
31, 186.5
MoCollon, J. D., m. o. Aug. 31,1805 Corp Walle.John. tr. to Co. F d. Benton Bks
Montague, Benj. F.,tr. to Co. D Aug. 31 Mar, 24,1.804
18.15 as Corp'l. Young, William J. B., tr to Co, V m. o.
Mitehett, Silas W., trans, to Co. D d. at Aug. 31, 1805 as Corpl.
Pine Bluff May 9, 1805
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY I
Fiml Serjfmit.-Henrv C. Hoffman, m. o. July 20, 1805
Recniu —Duncan Chas , d. Pine Bluff of accidental wounds, Nov. 1, 1661
Spann, Solom d, died Pine Bluff Oct. 27, 1864.
MfSTER ROLL, COMPANY K.
First Lituteii'
Rudolph A. Wheatley, n
Sergt Aug.
31, 186
Second Lieutenant.
T, FouDtuin. m. o. Sept. 4, 1864
Privale.i.
Aug 31, 1805
Parker, Ed C, r
Rentlrii. Willian
Short. Jo
leatlei
disability
.Oct, 11, 1865 to dat
o. Aug. 31, 1865 Sergt
B., m.o. Aug, 31,1865
L,, m. o. Aug, 31, 1865
F,, m. o, Aug, 31, 186,5
np Butler Feb, 13 1864
, diseh. Nov. 11, 1864
Aug. 31, 18
Chandler, J., d. Pine Bluff, July 9, 1864
Drew, Je-se, absent at m. o. of Regt. i
Dye, Elmore C, m, o. Aug. 31, 1865 1
Foster, Thos. m. o. Aug. 31, 1865
Kirk, (ieorge M.
Lawrence, Henrv S., m. o. Aug. 31, 1805
LawBon, J. B,, discli, July 3, 1865 Sergt. i
Recruits.
1, Wiu . absent sick at m. o. Reg.
., lis , I.I ii. Aug. 31, 1865 Corpl.
1 . ^ I l; , ilisch. May 9, 1805 to
.■ Vol: :11, 1S05
Ulaihorne R , m. o. June 30. 1805
in, Chas., m. o. Aug. 31, 1865
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY L.
Ca),t<,iii.
James Crain, m, o. Aug. 31, 1865
FiT!,t Lieutenant.
Wm. G. Anderson, m. o. Sergt. Aug. 31,
1866
Private.
Rerruits.
Ballard, William, diseh. Aug. 31, 1804
MUSTER ROLL, COMPANY F
Berry D, J , d. Little Rock Sept, 20, 1864
Fetter, Jao., d. Pine Bluff Apr. 13, 1865
Moore, Thomas, diseh. Feb. 15, 1865
Miller, Jno. d. Pine Bluff Sept. 14,;i88i
Thompson, Gideon
Bluff
lUiimssiijnedRi
Butler, Bailey, rej
Chalford, Chas. M.
2, 1864
Fallon, Robert, rejected
Roper, Wm., tr. to Co. D d. P
Sept. 25, 1864 wounds
Reed, Wm., tr. lo Co. F d. P
Sept, 22, 1864
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY L.
Coii(OTn«,— Geo. W. Sewsberry, resig'd June 7, '65.
d. Camp Butler Apr
Sergeantt. — 5o\\n Ris
John W. Malo
, M,
Bluff, Ark., Aug. 25, '65.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
231
Corporal*.
James Dunbar, M. O. Aug. 31, '65, a
private.
Francis Smith, died at Pine Bluff, Ark,
July 14. '64.
Edward M. Smith, M O. Aug. 31, '65.
Will' • — --■- --"^ -■"'
Fornp, John A.
Greenawiilt, Henry, died at Pine Bluff,
~ Ark., Sept. 1,1864.
Caller, Wm. H , M.O. Aug 31, 1865.
Holt. Wm. S., died at Piue Bluff, Ark.,
Oct. iS 1IW4.
':ni;;m je^,n^vHv;;erd5;d^. pine top?^i/vr;^wt;i^3f \8?f •
Bluff, Ark., Sep,. 26, 04. K'cy? *":; died af pfoe 'filuffroc.
Bw)ler.
John T. Smith, died at Alton, III., May
Pressley,
20, 1861.
Perkins. Peter. M. O: Aug. :il. ISGi.
. ,,.. »onnn, Poypus, Clias., M. O. Aug. 31. 1865.
I, U4. nounas. Throup, Francis M.,abslnt. sick at M.O.
Artificer. of regiment.
Samuel C. Stewart, detached at M. 0. of , Throup, Thomas, MO. June »>.. IS";
R.^irim^nr Vemcr, Jos., disch. Aug. 18, 186.1. disao.
Kcgimeni. I Williams. George, M. O.Aug. .11, IHiib.
','„•. Wren. Josiah F, died at Benton Bar-
Armour. James M.,M. O.Aug. 31,1865. racks. Mo. March 2, '64.
Arnev.Andrew.died at Pine Bluff, Ark., "•^'"'••' • •
Oct'. Jl. '64. ie«ru,(..
Bilev, Alfred, claimed by and Trans, to Beckett, John F., disch. Feb. 17, lsr,4.
lu'ith III. Inftv. ' Disability.
n.ii"..ii, John, M. O.Aug. 31,1865. Condor, Adam, M. O. Aug. 31, 18ii5.
(\uhll.., Francis M., M.O. Aug. .31, 1865. Corwin, Elijah, M. O. Aug. 31. 1865.
IMM-, Kiiizlv. M. O. Aug. 31, 1865, as Edwards, John, died atPine Bluff, Ark.,
r,iij.,irHl. " ' Julv 30, 1864.
Duvi.-, John W., trnnsf. (o Co. E. Jenkins. Sam'l C, M. O. Aug. 31, 18';5.
Fmlev, William, died at Pine Bluff, McLaughlin, Wm. H.. died at Pine
Ark., Oct. 28, -64. Bluff. Ark., June 13, 1S64.
FIFTEENTH CAVALRY REOIMENT. — (Three Years' Semce.)
MUSTEK BOLL COMPANY E.
fnro/«— Bean, Oliver \V., killed near Hickman, Ky, June 4, 1863.
Cunningham. Francis .M., tiansf to lutli Cav., as consolidaterl.
Lett, Sherrod.
FOURTEENIH CAVALRY. — MEN FROM PERRY COVNTY.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY C.
Primb^Crocket, John C.died at Peoria, III., April 7. 1863.
Mf.STER ROLL COMPANY E.
Priv(tl'f—\rney, Benjamin, mustered out June 12. I86j. Pris. War.
Daine.s James, mustered out July 31, 1865.
Ingram, Chas., mustered out July 31, 1865.
Mosley, James P.
MISTER ROLL COMPANY G.
PKpnte— Lefler, Thomas, missing in action since .\ug. 3, 1864.
FIFTEENTH CAVALY REGIMENT. — {Three Yems' Service.)
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY C.
nu.-tered out Aug. 31, 1805.
MUSTER
Sergeant — James M. Bla
Buafe-— George Taffec.
Prifa/« — Bacon, Benjar
Shank Oliver,
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY F.
/V»e«ii#— Coleman, Miles H., trausf. to Co. L., loth Cavalry, as consolidated.
SIXTEENTH CAVALRY REGIMENT. — {Three Ycws' Service.)
MUSTER ROLL CO.MPANV L.
/V/r<,(<!— Guard, John.
MUSTER ROLL COMPANY M.
/Vila/™— Winters, Louis A.., escaped prisoner, -M. O.Aug. 1!), 1S65 as Corpl.
ALTON BATTALION INFRY — 100 (lays — FROM RANDOLPH CO.
Captain Simon S. Slot key's Company.
Corporult. I Barns. Lewis, m. o. October 7. '64
Thomas Horner, m. o. October 7. '64 | .lackson, Alexander, m. o. October ".'64
Burke. Franklin M., m, o. o.t. 7. fA I McMellon. William T., m. o. Oct. 7, '64
Benson, Newton, iii. o. Oclobcr 7, '64 | Short, William, m. o. Oct. 7, '04
FIRST ARTILLERY — [Three Years' Service.)
MEN FROM RANDOLPH COUNTY. Battery D.
iVii-ata.— Herbert. Charles F.. tr. from 30 III.
Battery G.
Sergec
I Bradley, m
. Sept.
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY. Battery D.
l"<(ffan.— F-iton, William, mustered out July 28. 1863.
Battery G.
PncptfS.
Robinson, George, .lisc.Feb.l.5,'6.i.i
Barcla
V. John
, died Feb. 29, '64
1 Stevenson, George, disc. Feb. 5, '65
Breen
Denni
s. mustered out
Hill....
rh.im
IS
1 Uicmih.
Full.':
l: ' • r
H ,.lisc.Junel,'62;disnb.
1
M.. ;
Use. July l,'62;dis«b
Baxter, Joseph, disc. March 11, '65
.M:,-.
h ,.
11^.. Feb.5.'64
1 Garetv. Peter, M. 0. June 10, '65
M.'.i
,1. NIm.
- hsc. Sept. 30, '62
Stevenson, Jas., ra. o. June 19, '65, ct
Battery I.
iJecru*;.— Lany, Abram V.. discharged October 30, '62
SECOND ARTILLERY. — {Three Years' Service.)
MEN FROM PERRY COUNTY'. Battery D.
Bft-riiil.— Todd, John, discharged September 24, '64 ; term expired
Battery F.
Recruit
Davis, Samuel, dropped from the rolls August 1, '64
MEN FROM MONROE COUNTY. Battery E.
Privaiet. I Nagel. William, Vet. trans, to Bat. A.i
Eberlein, Charles, Vet. tr. to bat. A, „"• ''"'>' i?')'"',,
m. o. Julv'27, '6> jS'immer,
Langeb..hn, Jacob, killed at Liberty, I o. July
r, Joiin, Vet. trans, to Bat. A,
.o. September 17, 61
-Engsling, Stephen.
CHAPTER XII.
C 0 MM 0 X SCHOOL S.
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
BY 8. B. HOOD.
OIvSIDERlNG the early settle-
ment and organization of
this county and the fact of its
having contained the chief
city and greatest centre of
civilizatiun in the Missis-
sippi Valley, we should
expect that the history of its
schools would be attended
by more than ordinary in-
terest. And such, no doubt,
would be the case with a
complete history ; but the
very antiquity that would
add to its interest hangs the mists of centuries before our eyes.
Governor Reynolds, in his history of Illinois, speaks of the
school-houses being guarded during school hours, and of the
dangers to wiiich children were exposed in going to and
returning from school in the country districts in early times.
The only book education, therefore, that many of these
children received was from their parents in their cabin homes.
In the villages, however, schools were established and
sustained from a very early period, and it is fair to presume
that those of Kaskaskia and I'rairie du Rocher were taught
in French. They were of the parochial type, since the
leading men of these villages were Frenchmen — men of
culture, and of the Catholic religion. Unfortunately, no
records of these schools were kept, and tradition is almost
silent respecting them. In later years the churches sustain-
ing these schools have kept records of them, which will be
found in the chapters devoted to these churches.
The earliest schools were priucijially taught in the de-
serted log huts of the itinerant squatter or hunter. These
were much inferior to the first houses built expressly for
school purposes, a tvpical one of which I shall cndcKvor to
present to the reader's mind :
The walls were of unhewn logs, and the cracks were
daubed with mud mortar from the yard. This black mortar
was mixed with dead prairie grass to make it slick, and was
put on with the hand, so that corrugations were formed in
it by the finger prints of the dauber. The roof was of
clap-boards, held down by weight-poles kept in position by
jiieces of wood called kuees or cripples placed between them.
The door was on the south or ea^t, and turned on wooden
hinges and was fastened by wooden latch or pin. On the
232
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
opposite side a log was cut out to admit light to the writing-
desk, a long slab fastened to the wall just below this open-
The above cut represents the exterior of one of these cabin
school buildings. The seats consisted of puncheons, sup-
ported by four legs driven into the holes near the ends. The
legs, usually put in green, were too small for the holes when
seasoned, and would stick up through the bench Air enough
to prevent the " pu.shing off" process, to which the pupil on
the end of the bench was ever exposed. These benches,
without backs, were placed end to end round the walls of the
room, so that the pupils could rest their aching spines
against the projecting logs. The bench at the long window
was a high one, as none but the " big'' boys and girls wrote
in those days. As Judge Murphy, of Sparta, once said in
addressing a teachers' meeting : " The school benches in the
old times, were much like the seats in modern railroad cars,
springy and reversible, only that in the former the boy had
to do the springing and reversing " The heating apparatus
consisted of a wide chimney or fire-place, built of mud and
split sticks. The wood, dragged up in the tree by three or
four yoke cf oxen, was cut into suitable lengths by the
Echool-boys, detailed in regular order for the work.
The school-house ax was reputed the dullest in the neigh-
borhood, and yet no one ever stuck it into the ground. The
large girls swept the puncheon floor by turns with a wild-
grass home-made broom. Water carrying from the ever
adjacent spring or creek was a privilege usually awarded to
the meritorious.
School-books in these days were far different from those
used now. The elementary spelling book, with its alternate
pages of spelling and reading, was the only book for begin-
ners, and the Testament for advanced readers. In later
days, the Euglish Reader and the Introduction were used in
some of the most progressive schools. In Arithmetic there
was but one book for the older and the younger pupils, the
teacher giving such individual help as he thought needful.
The copy books were made at homo, of common unlined
paper, which the teacher ruled. He also set the copies and
made and repaired — "fixed' — the goose-quill pens- Pen-
making was quite an att in those days, and the sharp " pen-
knife " was one of the teacher's first necessities. Spelling,
reading, writing and arithmetic constituted the school cur-
riculum. Pluck, and muscle to back it, were considered im-
portant qualifications, and the teachers were usually males ;
yet we hear of some few females who taught in this county
at a very early da}-, and gave the young womeu of their
schools instruction in needle-work.
The schools were sustained by subscription to an agreement
to pay the teacher a certain price for a specified number of
scholars, for a stated time, the article specifying the branches
to be taught. The price per scholar ranged from 33 Jc to
SI '-5 a month, according to the studies taken. Besides the
regular term pupils there were " day scholars," who paid
five cents a day when at school. As the schools were neces-
sarily small, teaching was not very remunerative; but the
small salaries were supplemented by free board, or " board-
ing round," as it was called, among the patrons. Many of
the teachers were of limited education, but some were men
of thorough scholarship.
As many children had to travel to school through track-
less forests, the fathers usually, on the first day of school,
blazed a path to the school house, marking the trees on
both sides so as to guide the children in going either way.
Large trees were felled across the streams for bridges, and
pole hand-rails were placed on forked stakes driven into the
ground on either side of the log. Even as late as 1841,
most of the streams in this county were without bridges,
and, when swollen, a source of danger to the lives of both
teachers and pupils in crossing, — though few fatal accidents
from this cause are remembered.
The following touching account was given by Mrs Mary
G. Allison, of St. Louis, the mother of one, and the sister of
another of the unfortunate victims of pioneer life, whose
names this sketch shall p rpetuate : In 1841, Miss Ptachel
M. Graham, aged seventeen, and daughter of Hugh Graham,
who then lived near Chester, taught a school near Gordon's
mill. On the 2'2d November, Miss Graham started for her
school on horseback, taking her nephew, Chelsey Drew, a
lad ten years old with her to return the horse. Mary's river,
at that time swollen by the heavy rains of the previous Sun-
day, was crossed at a ford some distance below the bridge
on the old Chester and Georgetown road. It seemed from
the tracks of the horse that they entered the river with no
fear of danger ; but the rapid current swept the horse and
its precious burden down the stream. Miss Graham sank
and perished. The boy caught hold of the branches of a
tree that hung across the stream, and cried for help. A
German woman living near by, hearing his cries, ran to the
river, and saw the boy holding on to the limb, sometimes
above the water, and sometimes disappearing beneath it.
Seeing she could do nothing herself, she ran fur her hus-
band, who, mounting hLs horse, galloped to the ford, dashed
boldly in and tried to swim his horse to the rescue. But
again the stream prevails, — horse and gallant rider both go
down and swiftly pass the rising, sinking, hoping, now de-
spairing child. Being washed from the horse's back, Mr.
Daningbunk, the noble German, caught around the animal's
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPir, MOXROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
233
neck, urged by his wife, who had iiiiain reached the river, to
try to save his own life For a quarter of a mile the
struggling horse and man were swept down by the current,
till at length the horse getting footing, emerged from the
waler and clambered up the steep bank, but his heroic
rider, exhausted, fell back into the hungry stream and
sank. Deeds less daring, sacrilices less noble, have been
immortalized in song.
The woman, though deeply licart-smitten, by the dreadful
death-scene of her husband, still determined if possible to
save the boy. She ran and informed a Mr. Chapman of his
condition. He, mounting a horse, rode rapidly to the fords,
but when he readied it all was hii-^'hed and still save the dis-
mal gurgling of the angry stream whose cold resistless cur-
rent disdaining alike the purity and beauty of womanhood,
the strength and courage of manhood and the helpless inno-
cency of pleading childhood, had covered all three in the
gloomy depths of a watery grave.
But to return to our history : — Where the first school was
taught in this county is not certainly known, but it is a
matter of history that as early as 17'i() the Jesuits founded
a college at Kaskaskia, which flourished until 17o4, and
schools of a lower grade probably existed at a still earlier
date
John Doyle, one of General Clark's ohl Siddiers, returned
to Kaskaskia after the war and taught school, many years
between 1790 and 18011. About this time a heavy immigra-
tion set in from the States, and early in the present century,
we find settlements scattered all over the county. We
shall therefore take the.se settlements, as represented by the
townships, in which they are located and give as nearly as
possible the school history of each. Township 4, range 5,
including Coulterville : The first school-house in this town-
ship, was a log cabin erected probably in the fall of 18"28,
and located in the N. E. quarter of section 27. The first
school was taught the following winter by Mr. (i'orgc
Campbell, who still lives near Sparta. Henry L. McGuire
and Kenjamin Wham, afterward Dr Wham, were among
its other early teachers There was another school taught
at a very early day in the western part of this township,
in section 19, west of the old Stuart Burns' place, but its
date is not known.
Mr. Blair Strahan. now an old man residing in the north-
ern part of the township, attemled this school when twelve
vcars old. James B. Parks and William McKee taught in
this school. In later years, the school was moved further
north and a round log school-house erected on the land now
owned by Thomas Lindsey. Rev. James Morrow, now an
aged man living on Mud creek, taught a number of terms
in this house.
The first school under the free school law was taught by
David Coulter, now a minister, in Winchester, Kansas.
Miss Martha Bailey, (now Mrs. West, of Ii<lwardsville),
Mr. Frank Anderson, now of Wyandotte, Kansas, Miss
Lydia Morland, late Mrs. Rev. Elliott, of Swauwick, and
Mr. George McKay were among the early teachers of this
school. The township has now six schools, including the
graded school of Coulterville, -541 children of school age and
30
a township school fund of SI 931, 82. It has also a good
academy, the particulars of which will be found in the his-
tory of Coulterville.
Township 5-5, containing Eden. The first school in this
township was taught in 1821 by an Irishman by the name
of Robert Moor. The school-house was one of the typical
kind, and was located in section 7. The District, including
the present location of Sparta, was about six miles scjuare
In the summer of 1822, G. T. Ewing, afterwards a. covenan-
ter minister, taught a school in section 9, east of Eden, an
apple tree on the farm of Mr. Tavlor Nesbit, marking the
site of the old school-house. Robert Clark, one of the noted
teachers of his time, taught here in 18 j4 and 1835. Rev.
Samuel Wylie, late of Eden, frequently had private students.
The names of Don JSIorrison and brother and the Bonds
of Kaskaskia were among his pupils. The township now
has 7 schools, 387 children of school age and a township
school fund of S2550.70.
T(nvn«hip G-5, containing Steelesville and Percy, had a
school as early as 1812, or six years before Illinois became
a State. The school-house was an old log cabin which
stood where Steelesville now stands, then a dense forest.
John White was the teacher. The firs' regular school-house
was constructed of round logs, in 1820, and was located in
the X. E. quarter 'of section 17, and familiarly known as
the " Jones' School-house." Mr. White was succeeded by
the following teachers named in order : Col. Gabriel Jones,
Mr. Carnes, Mr. Bender, Martin Jernigan, .James Guthrie,
Benjamin Wham, Isaac B. Brown, Mr Ward, Mr. Ellis,
Archibald Smith, Jlr. Hill, Mr. Spears, Miss Ford, Nathan
Cole, now of St. Louis, and once mayor of that city. Miss
Herd, Mi.ss Herdman, Biddy Farnan, Dr. William A.
Gordon, now of ('hester, Mary G. Malone, W. W. Doggett,
Wm. B. Bergfield, Mr. McDaniel and James M. Malone,
present posSmaster of Steelesville, the latter taught before
the free school law was in operation and for many years
afterwards.
This township furnished School Commissioner, Mr. Eli
Lofton, and a county Superintendent, Mr. John A. Malone.
To the latter we are indebted for the organization of the
Randolph County Teachers' Institute. The township has
now seven sehor)ls, including the graded school of Steeles-
ville, 548 children of school age and a township school fund
of •?94:) U(i.
Towiisliip 7, Range 5, including Sliiloh Hill. The first
school-house was erected in this township about 1830, on
the S. E. corner of section 10, and Isaac B. Brown was the
first teacher. There was also a small log school-house
built within the present limits of the village of Shiioh Hill,
in 1836, and Josiah Cully taught in it in 1837. The
building was also used for preaching.
Bridget Farnan, sister of the late Dr. James Farnan, of
Sparta, taught a school in 1843, in a vacant house near the
site of the present Mill Creek brick school house. Among
the other early teachers, the following names occur : Hora-
tio Newberry, William JIcAdams, now of Chester, Richard
Davis, now a popular Baptist preacher, James II anna,
Daniel Lvnch and the venerable Paul Hallworth. Mr.
234
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
HaHwertli, ihcugh now veil advanced in life, is still active,
euergttic and progressive in eduational matters.
Smator John A. Lngan, the distinguished soldier and
statesman, attended Daniel Lynch's school in this township.
It has been fortunate in having, within it, a number of men
who were warm friends of education, and particularly of the
public schools. A mong those who deserve mention are : Paul
Hallworth, mentioned above, and his co laborers. Judge Jas-
Gillespie(fatherof Col. Gillespie), John B. Burke, John Bar-
row and Judge Martin Ireland. The latter has been intimately
connected with the school interests of the township for
nearly forty years. There are now four schools in this
township, 277 children of school age and a school fund
of S844 01. The origin and parliculars of the Shiloh Hill
College, will appear in the history of the village.
Township 'i. Range b, cnxiisanrng the town of Rockwood.
The first school was taught in the northwestern part of
the township in 1829, by Mr. Conant, an eastern gentleman;
of classical education, afterward a resident of the county,
who lived to an old age. Another early school was taugjit
by J. H. Cleudinen, in the present limits of the Ebenezer
District, piior to 1833. The first school-house was built by
Louis Garrelt in 1836. The school coniisted of 35 to 40
subscription scholars. About this time, a very eccentric
teacher, William Robinson, was known here. He taught
school north of Kaskaskia, as early as 1812 or 14, and some
of the earliest residents of the township were his pupils.
He was often with the Indians, and one occasion after his
absence of two or three years, his wife received a letter from
him, containing only the words "Sane; Yours William
Robinson." Israel Curtis in 1838 and '9, taught in the
present limits of Rockwood village. In 1838, Robert Jef-
frey kept a winter term of school in a cooper shop, in the
present limits of the Ebenezer District. Forty years after,
his g'and-daughter, Mattie Jefl^rey, is teaching about 100
yards from the same place. He was an excellent penman
and a very successful teacher. Dr. Lynch taught in the
township in 1840. While teaching at Shiloh, he predicted
the future notoriety of his pupil, John A. Logan. The
Ebenezer log school-house was built in 1842. Mr. Seymour
Straight, since a prominent Ohio dairyman and millionaire,
taught here in 1843 or '4.
The first public school-house was built in Rockwood iu
1848. Joseph Walker was the first teacher. The second
was built in 1852, in the Ebenezer District. The lumber
was sawed with the whip-saw, one man above and the other
below the log. The township has now two schools, one
hundred and sixty children of school age, and a school
fundofS847,75.
Toumship 8, R. 6, including the village of Houston. The
first school in this township of which we have reliable in-
formation, was taught in 1834, near the farm of John Mc-
Millan, about three fourths of a mile west of Houston. The
school-house was a deserted log cabin. The first teacher
Mas James Finley, of Hill Prairie, the next, Thomas An.
derson. Afterward the house was moved to a point near
Mattliew Lessley's farm, and Hugh McKelvey, son of Chas.
McKelvey, taught there in 1837. Ee was followed by Jas.
Parks and Mr. Glenn. In 1844, Robert Steen taught in a
small house built by some settlers, in the northern part of
Gordon's Grove, near the present United Presbyterian
church. In 1846, Mrs. Delilah Meek taught a school in
her own house, on the hill, where the residence of Mr.
Hugh Mathews now stands. On the eastern side of the
township, schools were taught at an early day by Adam
Marshall, uncle of Dr. S. W. Marshall, of Sparta. One of
these schools was kept on the hill, near old Dr. Marshall's,
and another on Plum creek, near Samuel McClinton's.
This township has now seven schools, 424 children of school
age, and a township school fund of S1119.90.
Township 5 — R. 6, containing part of Blair. The first
school in this township was probably taught in a small log
school-house, on the old Dial place, more recently the
Frazier place, in sec. 4. As best remembered, it was origi-
nated by Major Andrew Borders, father of judge James J.
Borders, now of Sparta, William Temple, father of jNlr.
John Temple, and Joseph Weir, fatherin-law of Mr. Wm.
Weir, both of Livcly's Prairie. The first teacher was James
Guthrie, who taught in 1826. A Mr. Armour, probably
John Armour of Sparta, taught in 1834. Staflxird C. Meek,
Coe W^. Caice, John C. Means and Thomas Slater, were
among the early teachers. There was also a school taught
at a very early day on the creek east of Major Borders'
farm, in sec. 3, but no facts can now be gathered of its date
or teachers. As late as 1848 there was but one regular
school-house in this township, and even it was used for
preaching as well as for school. Another school was kept
in the old Associate Reformed Church, in Opossumden
Prairie, near the site of the present United Presbyterian
Church, iu sec. 24. The township has now seven schools,
414 children of school age, and a township school fund of
$909.01.
Township 6, — 7?. G, containing Bremen and part of Blair.
The first school in this township was taught by Ezekiel
Rubbins, for a number of years, in the neighborhood of
Randolph, now Bremen. The first school-house was situated
in northwest qr. of sec. 27, and had been the log dwelling
of some early settler. The first house built for school pur-
poses, was of logs, and about 25 feet square, and was located
on the northeast qr. of sec. 26. The first school-house iu
the neighborhood of Blair, was a round-pole deserted dwell-
ing, but no one remembers the dates or early teachers.
James Hughes taught Ex. Gov. John Reynolds and others,
at his own house. This township furnished one school com-
missioner, Mr. Marcus L. Burns, who held the office credit-
ably from 1861 to 1865. It has now 6 schools, 422 children
of school age, and a township school fund of S1842 00.
Township 7 — B. 6. The first school of which we can
learn anything in this township, was taught by Nathan
Conant, in lb23. He taught also in 1824. These schools
were taught in the summer time, to enab'e children to attend,
living from a distance. The school-house was on the south
side of Mary's river, near its mouth, in what was then known
as the Brain and Hindman settlement. Nothing more can
be learned of the schools of this township till 1849, when
the names of Almira Smith, R. G. Davis, William Taylor,
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
235
James Pinkerton. Margaret Phillips, F. R. Douglass, P. X.
Russel, Wm. McClure, James P. Craig and Wra. McAilams,
appear as teachers. Among the leading men in educational
matters at au early day, were Isaac Rust, John Smith, Mr.
Aldricli, Mr. Phillips and Abel Crisler. This township has
now five schools, 322 children of school age, and a township
school fund of §1875.00
Towmliip 8, Range 6, is a fractional township on the Mis-
sissippi river between Chester and Rockwood. The first
school in this township was taught by a Mr. Garrett, in a
Louse in the southwest qr. of sec. 11, belonging to Samuel
Mansker, in 183G. lu 1842, William Clark kept a school
in a house belonging to John Moore, in the southwest qr.
of sec. 12, and, in 1843, a Mr. Thompson taughtin thesame
house. In 1844, Truman Strate kept a school in a house of
Samuel Mansker, in the southeast qr. of sec 2. The first
house built for school and church purposes, was erected on
Robert Moore's land, northwest qr. of sec. 2, and was named
the Pleasant Ridge school-house The first free school was
taught by Sohcrry Morgan, brother of Wm. H. Morgan, of
Shiloh Hill, in 18.57, in the Clift(m school house, in south-
east qr. of sec. 2. The leading educational men in early
times were Samuel Mansker, Alexander Hiudraan, Robert
Grissom, Joab Parks and Robert Moore, who were elected
school trustees in 1835. The school lands in this township
were sold in 1836, for 31 25 per acre The township has
now two schools, 71 children of school age, and a school
fundofS318 86.
Toicnship 4, Range 7, containing Baldwin. The fir.-t
school in this township was taught in the old Fort, in sec.
33, in 181G or 1817, by an old sailor, named Davis. Of
those who went to this school, the only survivor is Mrs.
Jennie L Nel.-on, of Baldwin. The second was taught by
one Summers, in 1818, in a cabin on sec. 28. Mr. Summers
was acquainted with military tactics, and drilled the boys
at noon, and other spare times. John A. Wilson, late of
Sparta, then a little boy, acted as drummer in this youthful
company. The third school was in sec. 21, just above Cos's
Ferry, on the Okaw river, and was taught by Mr. Davis,
above mentioned.
The first house built for school purposes was in see. 27,
on Plum creek. It was erected in 1822, and Robert llill
was the first who taught in it. About 1828, a split log house
■was raised in sec. 23, and the first teacher to teach in it, was
Isaac Hill. He was followed by Thomas Anderson, Mr.
Wilson, J. T. W. Rodgers, Mr. Pattison, Andrew Wilson,
J. H. Nelson and James Bane. The leading educational
families in this township were the Andersons, Thompsons,
Coxes, Wilsons, Mudds and Hills The township has now
six schools, 381 children of school age, and a township school
fund of S1019.47.
Township 5, Range 7, including Preston. The first school
remembered in this township, was taught by Archibald
Thompson, in 1820, in his own kitchen. The next was kept
bv Henry Noah, in 1826, in a log house, on the old John
Campbell place, a mile or so west of Preston. The third
was on the farm of Andrew McCormick, near the southern
side of the township, on a branch of the Nine Mile creek,
and was taught by George- Mc'Jormick, Andrew's son. Mr.
William Foster, now an old man, living west of Sparta,
attended Mr. Noah's school, ncarPre-ton, when a little b\v.
On one occasion Mr. Noah whipped William fjr misspelling
a word, and a splinter of the switch stuck in William's face.
The teacher wished to pull it out, but the boy would not
permit this evidence of mistreatment to be removed, till his
father should see it. As Mr. Noah rode home from school,
he took William on the horse, behind him, perhaps to con-
cilate him. On reaching Mr. Foster's, the chdds story and
splintered face made a temporary storm, and no doubt our
Noah would have gladly entered au ark to escape the danger
that threatened, had one been present. This township has
now eight schools, 333 children of school age, and a school
fund of S735.25.
Town-hip 6, Range 7, containing Kaskaskia and Ellis
Grove. — James Thompson, familiarly known as Judge
Thompson, father of J. D. and R M., of Central preL-inct
and Chester respectivel)-, taught school in Kaskaskia in this
township from 1814 to 1817. Mr. Thompson became a
prominent man in this countj', filling many positions of
public trust for long periods. In 1822 Rev. Samuel Wiley,
late pastor of the Reformed Presbyterian church of Edei',
assisted by G. T . Ewing, then a theological studenta nd after-
ward a mini-ter of the same denomination, opened an aca-
demy in Kaskaskia, and carried it on till about 1S29. The
early schools in the country settlements are not remembered.
The township has now six public and several private schools ;
524 children of school age and a township school fund of
81674.55.
Township 1, Range 7, including the city of Chester. — The
following are the names of most of the early teachers, toge-
ther with the dates of their labors : Mr. Oiborn, in a log
school-house, near Mrs. Ellen Cotes' present residence,
about the year 1830 or 1831 ; Miss Kansas L^jland, in same
house, about 1832; also James Robinson, in 1834; Mr.
Holliday, at Portland, where the Southern Illinois Peniten-
tiary now stands, about 1835 ; Mr. Ilolloway, a Scotch Vir-
ginian, in a log house near the present residence of Hon. W.
Hartzell, about 1836, and summer school, in 187); Mrs.
Drew, summer school, 1838; also winter school i[i town,
1838 and 1839; Mr. Hunipris, in a log school-hsuse near
Mr Hartzell's, in 1838 and 1839; James Askins, father of
W. P. Askins, of Sparta, in same house summer school, in
1840 or 1841 ; Rev. James Glenn, just at north line of town
ship, near Plea=aut Ridge church, winter school, 1S43;
George Lindsey, in the old Porter house, now in Senenberg's
addition, fall and winter, 1846.
The later teachers in Chester were as follows in the order
named from 1840 to 1854: Miss Drew, John C. Means, Mr.
Sax, Dr. Junk, Miss Huntingter, Miss Cummings, James
Glenn, Mr. Jenkins, Dr. Johnson, L. D. Skilling and wife.
Miss Frone, Hugh Corrington. The present school is a
graded one, including a high school department, and has one
of the finest school buildings in Southo-n Illinois. The
township now contains three schools, 1031 children of school
age and a school fund of S2006 32.
Township 4, Range 8, including the city of Red Bud. — The
23G
HLSTOBY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
first schoul remembered was taught by John C. Crozier, in
1826. The house used for the school was a little abandened
pole cabin, near the Monroe county line. Mr. Crozier wa^
the father of Samuel Crozier, one of the founders of Red Bud,
and of James Crozier, who still lives in that citj'.
When the first school was taught in Red Bud is not now
known. This towuship has now five schools, including the
graded school of Red Bud, 'J16 chil dren of school age, and
a school fund of 8110.00.
Toicwhip 5, Range 8, containing the towns of Ruraa and
Evansville. — The first school in this towuship was taught by
Mr. Henry O'Harra, in his own house. The exact date of
this school is not now known. The next school was in 1830,
and taught by Mr. Henry Noah, whose name occurs in con
nectiou with other early schools. He taught several years in
succession, receiving S.'i.'iS a quarter per scholar, and five
cents a day from day-scholars, of whom he had several. The
first school under the free-school law was taiight in 1856, by
V\ iiliara P. Boyle. This township has now four public and
several private church schools, 4U5 children of school age
and a school lund of 83517,82.
Townships 6-8 and 7-8 are both fractional townships,
lying principally between the Mississippi and Okaw rivers.
As tlieir schools were not organized till a comparatively re-
cent date, no history of early schools is given. The former
has now two schools and 121 children of school age, but no
township fund ; the latter has two schools, 109 children of
school age and a township fund of $1353
Tonmsliip a, Range 9.— Tlie first English school in this
township twas taught in Prairie du Rocher, by Henry
Slaggus, date not known. Charles McNabb taught an Eng-
lish school here as early as 1820. The first free school was
also in Prairie du Rocher, and the teacher was paid by the
county school commissioner. Afterward a board of trustees
was ehctid, who hired teachers and controlled the school.
In 1850 Mr. F. W. Brickey became a member of this board,
and hired William P. Boyle as teacher. In order to induce
him to encourage the people to patronize the school, IMr.
Brickey agreed that he should have as his salary 83.00 per
quarter for each scholar in attendance. But this plan was
unpopular with the people, anri they would not send their
children to the school. Mr. Brickey then hired Mr. Doyle
at a regular salary per month, and the patrons resumed
sending and a good school was the result. There are uow
eight schools in this township, five supported by taxation
and the public school funds, and tiiree by the income of the
Prairie du Rocher commons. The commons fund is sime-
thing over 814,000 00, the interest of which is more than
sufficient for the three schools. This large fund has been ac-
cumulated by leasing the commons. These lands are very
rich and valuable, and the income will more than keep pace
with the demands of the common schools. Mr. Brickey
is treasurer of the township and also of the commons funds
and is in every way a representative man in the edu-
cational interests of the township. This township has n<iw
eight schools, 485 children of school age, and a township
school fund of 8546.93.
Toumship 6— 9— is a fractional township in the extreme
western point of the county. It has but one school and 83
children of school age. It has no school fund.
The first school in Sparta, was taught by John Armour
Sen. in 1831. The school was kept in one end of Robert G.
Shamion's warehouse, which stood north of the present old
brick store. The following year the same school was taught
by John Armour, Jr., son of the preceding. John Armour
Senior was the grandfather of Mr. James Armour, now of
this city. The next teacher was Adam Wylie, brother of
Rev. Samuel Wylie, late of Eden. He taught in 1833 and
1835. Benjamin Wham, later Dr. Wham mentioned before
followed Mr. Wylie. The last two taught in an old log
house which stood where the residence of Mrs. Henry Gard-
ner now stands. The house was afterwards used by Col.
James Morrow for a printing tffice. James G. Paiks fol-
lowed Mr. Wham. In 1839, Hugh McKelvey, brother of
S. W. McKelvey near Sparta, taught, and was followed the
next year by his cousin, Hugh McKelvey, son of Alexander
McKelvey. Dr. Beggs followed Mr. McKelvey. Dr. Chas. B.
Pelton, and wife taught from about 1846 to 1849. In 1838
the first regular school-house was erected. It w;is of brick,
one storv high, and was seated somewhat like a church. Two
teachers were usually employed in this house, though it was
all in one room, the teachers hearing their respective classes
at the opposite ends.
The building was known as the Sparta Seminary and stood
near the site of the present school building. Many learned
men and excellent teachers were employed in that old sem-
inary. The Union Academy, founded in 1858, and presided
over for several years by Rev. M. M. Brown, was for a time
an excellent school and gave a good academic education to
many who are now filling places of public trust and honor
in this and other states. Sparta School district has 685
children of school age. The present school building has a
seating capacity of 600, whith is about the average enroll-
ment of the school. The school has eight grades exclusive
of the high school. The high school has a course of study
extending over a period of four years, and embracing Greek,
Latin, Book-keeping, Chemistry and the higher mathematics.
It has a large attendance of non-resident s-tudents. The
school as a whole employs thirteen teachers
The county has 91 ungraded and 6 graded schools, 16
private schools and 200 teachers, 70 males and 130 females.
Children of school age, 8722 A.u aggregate school fund of
825,135,43. In 1 882 it received f.-om the state funds 89,254,00
and levied a school tax of 829,395,65. It has 14 log school
houses, 63 frame, 25 brick and 3 stone, exclusive of private
school-houses. The school commissioners and superinten-
dents as far as the records give them are as follows :
Commissioners Dates Eli Lofton 1857
m. McBride 18:!(i Marcus L. Burns 1881
niiu'l (t 'i'lmnipson I.^t" Superintendents.
\ (.iii„M . 1>|: .l.-liii A M:,l"ii.' 1805
, l: . . -^ IMI l:.l I V li |--n 1809
The Randolph county teachers' Institute was organized
in 186G or 1867. This association meets yearly and spends
from one to four weeks in a review of the common
school branches conducted by the best teac hers that
HIS2 0HY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
237
can be obtained. Among these appear the names of Hon.
Newton Batemau, Presidents Edwards, Hewet and Avlln,
and Pro's. John W. Cook, Granville F. Foster, Joseph W.
Ewing, James II. Browulee, I. H. Brown, Major J. B.
Merwin and State superintendents Etter and Slade. Besides
giving instruction in the common studies, the conductors
have presented and discussed modern systems of education
and late and improved methods of teaching and disicpline.
MONROE COUNTY.
The general cliaracter of tlie English taught schools of
this county was a fair type of those conducted in the State
for more than a half century following. The old time
school-master, could not, in the general parlance of to-day,
be termed a professional teacher. He was selected amid the
pioneers, as the one best fitted to fill the position, — one who
had a fair smattering of the common branches, and at the
same lime knew well the corrective influence of the hazel
switch and ferule. We do not employ this language to cast
any reflections, or bring censure upon the zealous tcholastic
labors of the pioneer pedagogue ; but, as illustrative of the
ideas and modes of training that existed among the people
in those early times. The author of the " Hoosier School-
master," express the sentiment mu/tutii in parvo, when he
quotes the language of "Bud " Mean's father (then trustee
of his " deestrict"j " that where there was no licking, there
was no larning." Yet in afier years the grey hairs of the
pedagogue of long ago were thought of in kind remembrance
by those who had grown to mature years, and wiiom time and
experience had taught to appreciate the honest effort of
those whose lot it had been selected to become their tutors.
Monroe county bears the palm, and has the honor of hav-
ing the first English school taught within the boundaries of
the Prairie State. Ere the clicking of the type shall have
ceased, which shall record this as a part of the State's his-
tory, the centennial anniversary will have arrived of the
first English school taught in the western frontier. The
first American schoolmaster in Illinois, was John Seely, who
taught in the summer of ITT-'!, iu the " New Design " settle-
ment, now New Design precinct. The school-house was an
abandoned squatter's cabin. Round poles were placed in it
for seating purposes, and what little dtsk facilities were
furnished, were merely small logs flattened by a few strokes
of the ax and placed with the hewed side up. A log was
cut out of one side for lighting purposes, and with mother
earth for a floor, the reader will have a vague idea of how,
a century ago, the pioneer children obtained their meager
education.
The next teacher was Francis Clark, who taught a school
in the fall and winter of the same year. He proved to be
an intemperate man, and the school was not a success.
Following him was an Irishman by the name of Halfpenny,
who taught school within the State for many years after-
ward, and sub.sequently became noted, and might be appro-
priately termed the schoolmaster-general of the State, in
those early times. He was a man of active mind, and as
early as 1795, he erected a water mill on Fountain creek, a
little west of the present city of Waterloo. A little later
an educated man, John Clark, taught in the neighborhood.
He was a Scotchman by birth and a minister by profession.
He taught the higher branches in mathematics, philosophy,
etc., and became very popular among the people of this set-
tlenif nt. As late as the year 1800 there was only one school
in Monroe county — at New Design. Charles Walker taught
a school in a log cabin that stood within the corporate
limits of Columbia near the Waterloo road as early as 1815.
About 1817, Levi Piggott kept school in a log house
that stood in the timber, near a spring, still discharging its
waters into Biggs' creek, a little north of the town.
In the vicinity of Chalfin Bridge, in Mitchie Precinct,
Edward Humphrey taught a school in 1805, and continued
several years. He was a skillful teacher and a man held in
high esteem by the people, filling many important positions.
He was a member of the general assembly, and was register
of the land office at Kaskaskia.
Mrs. Ford, who became a resident of this county in 1804,
taught an early school in section .BO of T. 3, R. 10, which
some of the McRoberts' children attended.
It must be remembered that in these early times there
was no uniformity of text-books. The few pioneer boys and
girls were sent to school with such books as the family hap-
pened to have at hand. For reading-books they used the
New Testament, histories, biographies of prominent men, and
other literature, such as they could command. In arithme-
tic one had virtually completed his education when he had
arrived at the " Rule of three." Grammar was scarcely
within the curriculum of the pioneer school-boy. Times
have materially changed since then, and so have the customs
and sports of the school youth of that day. Much of the an-
tagonism formerly existing between teachers and pupils has
passed away. The more humane methodsof discipline have
softened and refined the manners of the youth and teachers,
and inspired respect in the former, and forbearance in the
latter. "Barring out" in primitive school life, was a spe-
cies of forcible entry and detainer of the school-house by the
larger boys, resorted to for the purpose of coni|)elliug the
teacher to yield the point for which they were petitioning,
frequently a jug of rum as a treat. If the boys succeeded
in holding the school-house against the efforts of the teacher
to enter it, he yielded gracefully to their demands, like the
"craven" of the wager of battle of old. On the other hand
if the teacher proved the stronger in the contest the boys
(juietly acquiesced. Those old customs, however, have
nearly passed away and gone with thethings that wttc. A new
era has opened up, and the youthof the country haveharned
that they must give their whole thought, time and energy
to prepare themselves to cope with the world in its present
advanced stage of general information and education.
From the foregoing it will be seen what obstacles and
disadvantages the children of the pioneers were obliged to
undergo, in order to obtain even a common school educa-
tion. To show the progress that has been made in the con-
duct of schools within the last thirty years, we append a
.synopsis of the reports made to the State Superintendent of
Public Instruction of 1851 and 1882.
238
HISTOBY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
For the year ending October 1st, 1851, we glean the fol-
lowing:
Whole numlter under 21 years of age 4,100
Kuinber ol' ilif-tricts -z-i
Kumher of schools taught "^4
Number of teachers 24
Number of scliool-hnases 18
Average montlily wa.^es paid male teachers S^o.Oj
Average monthly waives paid female teachers Sl'-."()
Whole amouut paid to teachers S'',4J0.00
Whole amount expended for public schools S*J,4-0.0U
The following h taken from the county school superiuten-
dent's report made for the school year eudiug June 30th,
1882 :
Whole number of males under 21 years of age 3,40(1
"Whole number of fomalcfi under ^1 years of age :!,:i73
Total 0,872
Number of districts in the county 47
Number of schools taught 5:i
C.racip.l «r-hn,,|.i 2
> .: : : I I'TS in public schools 03
lli-h'-r iiiiy wages paid tcaehers $o:.,t)ii
Lowest niinit^ily waives paid teacliers &'.'i,iii)
Animal amount" paid to t'acher-4 SJi.lsjm
Total school expeuscs for the year «;il,'.jiM4
Value of school property in the county Sii. ,uo
From the above shcviug, it may be readily be seen with
what strides the county has increased in popuhition, and has
progressed in its educational interests. In three decades it
has nearly trebled in its number of teachers and school-
houses. The manner of teaching has kept pace with the
age, and the school-houses are mostly of the modern style,
and in the main supplied with the latest and most approved
furniture and other school belongings. As an example of
the manner of the tiiinking and disfavor of the public school
system, in the minds of some no longer ago than 1858, we
take the privilege of inserting the sentiment, expressed un-
der the head of remarks, by a Township Treasurer, to the
then county superintendent of schools. " The people in this
section are very generally dissatisfied with the present school
law, and if it cannot be amended so as to operate better,
they think there had better be no law at all. On the sub-
ject last year, four of the districts had a tax to the amount
of over S900 of which the collector paid over to the treas-
urer 8700, and the balance of over S200 is no where', and
it caused so much trouble and botheration that I believe
they concluded not to try it again. Not a single district
has laid a tax this year. The County Clerk, I understand
does labor in assessing the school ta.< in the county, to the
amount of eighty or a hundred dollars, in May, all of which
he has to lose because the law has made no provision for
paying him anything. If I should suggest anything, it would
be to leave the whole business of laying and collecting taxes
with the trustees of schools, and uot trouble the county
officers with it any further than to lake the list of property
off the assessor's books. The whole business of the exami-
nation of teachers by the School Commissioner, and giving
certificates is a perfect humbug, and might be disposed of
without the least detriment to the community. I do not
wish to speak evil of dignitaries, but it rather strikes me
that the office of the State Superintendent with the salary
of $1,''')00 a year might also be placed in the same category.
I do not know what he has to do to earn his very handsome
stipend ; but, I suppose he is a lawyer, and as it is the law-
yers that have the making of most of our laws, I
suppose it is necessary to have a lawyer to expound and ex-
plain the law for the people, an 1 thus the office of State
Superintendent had to be created. I do not think he ha?
ever shown his face in this part of the State, and all that I
have ever heard or known of his doing for us was the send-
ing around of a few circulars, requesting the names of school
officers. All of which is respectfully submitted, etc."
In 1876, a Teachers' A?wciatioa v/xi established under the
auspices of Suparintendiut W. H. Hilyard, who is yet the
efficient officer at the head of the schools of the county.
The first attendance was composed of about forty teachers.
There was a healthy increase of members, and in 1880, the
attendance reached sixty teachers. This Institute was un-
der the efficient management of Prof. I. H. Brown of Ed-
wardsville, aided by Prof Mann of Ashley. Much good
was done in these sessions for the teaching profession, and
it may be hoped that they will be encouraged and fostered
for many years to come.
The following is a roster of the names of school commis-
sioners and county superintendents of Monroe county in
the order of their election ;
Solomon Patterson, appointed September 5, 1832, by
county board ; John Morrison, appointed September, 1834,
by county board. William Cowell, elected August, 1841 ;
Ananias Divers, elected August, 1843 ; C. H. Kettler, elected
August, 1845 ; W. L. Adelsberger, elected August, 1847 ;
W. L. Adelsberger, re-elected August, 1851. Mathias T.
Horine, elected at a special election February, 1853 ; James
A. Kennedey, elected in 18G1 ; Joseph W. Rickert, elected
in 1869 ; Joseph H. Hilgard, elected in 1873, present in-
cumbent.
We also append a list of the names of the present Town-
ship Treasurers :
Henry Homrighauson, township 3, range 8 ; Z. J. Voris,
township 2, range 9 ; Hugh Murphy, township 3, range 9 ;
Dr. J. Chewning, township 4, range 9 ; F. W. Brickey,
township 5, range 9 ; Christ. Brinduker, township 1, range
10; William B.jde, township 2, range 10; John P. Hoflman,
township 3, range 10; William Mayeys, township 4, range
10; Philip Mans, township 5, range 10; Frederick Zweig,
township 1, range 11 ; Jacob Meyer, township 2, range 11;
Louis Ihorn, township 3, range 11 ; William Feldme'ir, Jr.,
township 4, range 11.
We have thus briefly sketched the rise and progress of
the schools of Monroe county. Its advancement will bear
favorably with other counties in the State, and it is to be
hoped that it will take no backward step in the cause of
the free schools. They are the foundation, the grand bul-
warks which are to perpetuate the free institutions and gov-
ernment of the American people.
PERRY COUNTY.
BY B. G. ROOTS.
For much of the data obtained for the compilation of the
schools of Perry, lam under obligations to the present corps
of teachers of the county, and specially to the Rev. Peter
Hagler, Wm. M. Eaton, and R. H. Eaton, all of whom were
school-boys, together, in an early day, and have since been
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
239
well known as teachers and school officers in the county.
I also desire to mention the names of the following persons,
who have taken an interest in our common schools, for many
years : Hon. P. C. C. Provat, who taught a school on Holt's
Prairie, as early as 18S9 ; Nelson Holt, Henry Clay, David
A. Hoge, M. C Edwards, Henian E. Kelsey, Laura M.
Tuthill, H. West, W. S. D. Smith, C. H. Koe acd J. B.
Ward.
The early schools were taught under contracts, signed by
both teacher and patrons. 1 will here append copies of
two articles of agrtcmeut to tfach as written at that tiuie.
The first is between Allen Parlier, long an honored citizen
of this county, and parties in Was-liington county, and reads
as follows :
"Articles uj agreement drawn this "-'.olh of May, 1833, be-
tween Allen Parlier, of the county of Washington and state
of Illinois, of the one part, and we, the undersigned, of said
county and state, of the other i)art, witnesseth, that the said
Parlier binds himself to teach a school of spelling, reading,
writing, and the foregoing rules of arithmetic, for the tcrin
of three months, for ?2 per scholar, per quarter; said Par-
lier further binds himself, to keep good order in said school,
will teach five days in each week, all due school hours, and
will make up all lost time, except muster days, and will
set up with twenty scholars, the subscribers to furnish a
comfortable house, with all the conveniences appcrlainiug
thereunto, the school to commence as quick as the bouse
is fixed. N. B.— Wheat, pork, hogs, beeswax, tallow, deer
skins, wool and young cattle, all of which will be taken at
the market price, delivered at my house, at the expiratinu of
said school, day and date above written.
(Subscribers' names.) Ai.i.i;n P.^i^likr."
The second article is shorter and without date,
"Ferdinaud G. Humphreys, proposes to teach a common
English school, at the school house near John Baird's Esq.,
in Holt's Prairie, Perry county, state of lUiuois, in town
five, south of range two west, for the term of sixty days, at
the rate of two dollars per scholar. We undersigned sub-
scribers, agree to pay to F, G. Humphreys, the above named
teacher, each for himself, two dollars per scholar, for the
term of sixty days, and they agree also, that the said teaclur
may draw their proportionate share of the school fund."
This is signed by the teacher and ten subscribers, three
of whom sign for * scholar each. The whole number of
scholars that subscribed for it, is eighteen and one half. The
teacher boarded around among the employers, a week or so,
in each family, without charge. The articles under which
Hon. Philip C. C. Provat taught in diflerent parts of the
county, in 183i), and six following years, were much like
the above ; he agreeing to take young cattle, mink skins, etc.,
in payment, and not to charge willows anything in addition
to their share of school fund. Most of what was due him
from subscribers, to one school, was paid in fence rails, de-
livered on land which he had bought with what he had re-
ceived for teaching. That we may know what was meant
by a comfortable school-house, I give a description of one,
furnished by Messrs. Eaton, who know whereof they affirm,
as their early school days were passed in this house. " Our
school-house was 18x20 feet, built of round logs, about 1833.
The openings between the logs were closed with pieces of
wood, split to the right thickness, and daubed with mud ;
this was called chinking. At one end was a fire place, six
feet wide, for burning wood. The fire place was made of
split logs, which were partially defended from the fire by a
big slate stone, and clay. The chimney was built of slats
laid in mortar, made by mixing wet clay and straw. On
each corner of the chimney, at the top, was laid a large ball,
composed of this mortar. These balls answered both for
ornaments and holding the pieces of the chimney in place.
On the east side the upper half of the fourth log, from the
bottom, was cut out for 16 feet in length ; the lower half of
the log above this, was cut iu a similar manner ; through
this opening the light entered the building, except in cold
and stormy weather. Above this opening was a long plank
or board, suspended by leather hinges, which was lowered
down, to close the opening in bad weather. When this
opening was closed, some of the scholars saw their books by
light that came through crevices in the walls, and others
gathered about the fire place and studied by light coming
down the spacious chimney. Parallel with the lower edge
of the opening in the wall, was placed a split log, which ex-
tended the whole length of the house, and was inserted into
the space between the logs at each end. This half log was
our writing desk. In some school-houses a long plank, sup-
ported by long pins, driven into holes boied in the logs, took
the place of the split log for writing desk. The seats were
made of split logs, with holes bored into their lower side,
into which, pins called bench legs, 8 to 20 inches long, were
driven. The benches were placed near the walls, leaving
the central part of the floor vacant. On this vacant space
clas.ses stood to recite. There was no floor but the earth.
This soon became smooth, so that walking around made
little noise." One correspondent says: "To the first school
that I attended, I walked 4 miles, in company with two older
brothers, in 1833. Webster's spelling-book was the only
text book used l>y my brothers, and one was considered
sufficient for both of them. In later years, all that was taught
in any of the schools that I knew anything about, was
spelling, reading, writing, and arithmet'C. After finishing
the spelling book, we read as class books, the Testament, life
of Gen. Francis Marion, and Columbian orator. Most of
the studying was aloud, and one passing near the school
house could hear simultaneously, " Baker, brier. A. A. S.
Fellow of the American Academy, — •") times 1 are 5, 9 times
9 are 81. An old man found a rude boy," etc. The paper
on which pupils wrote, was not ruled when it was bought.
To enable pupils to have it properly ruled, the teacher had
a ruler, to which a lead pencil was attached by a string.
Each scholar ruled his own paper, and many a rap on the
head we got for ruling irregularly. Our pens were made of
goose quills, and one important part of the teacher's quali-
fications, was ability to make a good pen. We made our
own ink by boiling brier roots, and adding a little copperas.
The juice of poke berries was much used for ink, so was a solu-
tion of indigo. Not many of the scholars walked us far to
school as I did when I first began to attend, but all the children
240
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
of school age within a radius of 3 miles attended, making
the whole number of pupils 17.
After one or two terms an Eastern man taught, and he
talked about grammar, and urged the necessity of having it
taught in school, but the people seemed to think it was some
kind of language, not likely to be much used, and it was
kept out of the school for several years after this. Spelling,
reading, writing, arithmetic, and good manners and morals
were all that was taught in most of our schools. In some,
geography was taught by singing. All the states and their
capitals were wrought into a tune, which was sung.
Corporal punishment was common. The teacher carried
in his hand a long hazel switch, and when he saw ten or
fifteen boys who sat on one long beuch about to go to sleep^
or engaged in mischief, he tingled their bare feet and shius
with his switch. When a boy was guilty of a flagrant vio-
lation of rules, he was called into the middle of the floor,
and received over the shoulders a number of lashes propor-
tioned to his oflfence. The severest punishments were ad-
ministered with the "ruler," apiece of wood eighteen inches
long, one half or three-fourths of an inch thick, and one
and one-half inch wide. The teacher took hold of the right
hand of the boy with his left hand, straightened out the
fingers, held it firmly, and smote it with the ruler, fre.
quently until the hand was blistered. The schools were not
commonly crowded with too many scholars ; and if one
parent was too poor to pay, the early teachers treated him
with liberality, and said: "Send your children to school
without pay." It was also a common thing for an old pio-
neer who had no children to send to school, to pay some-
thing to the teacher in order to have the school kept up.
At the close of the term there was a spelling match between
our school and the one nearest to us. It was attended by
nearly all the men, women and children in both districts —
more than could get seats in the school-house. The match
was decided long before noon — five bushels of apples were
distributed among the children. The larger boys and the
men present put in most of the remainder of the day in
playing ball. Among the players were M. G. I\Iax-
well, who weighed 250 pounds, and several gray-headed
men.
All the spelling was oral, no scholar having a slate until
he was ready to "cypher." It commonl}' took several terms
to reach this point. At least once during eveiy term, a
visiting day was appointed by the teacher, and all came, —
fathers, mothers and the little ones. This somewhat long
description of our primary school, which is a fair specimen
of the schools of Perry county from 1830 to 1840, gives a
better idea of the schools than any general description that
I could give. I will give an instance or two, to illustrate
the interest which the early settlers felt in. education, al-
though many of them had had very little opportunity for
obtaining "book learning" in their youth. I knew one
case, in which the chimney, made of sticks and sod, fell
down near the close of the school, one day, and was burnt.
The teacher sent word by the children, to the men, to come
and rebuild it. The next day every man in the district was
there to help, and the chirane)' was completed, so that school
was stopped but one day. About 18-11, the school-house on
Eaton's prairie was accidentally burned. In three days,
another house was built on the same spot by the men in the
district, without the expenditure of one cent of money, and
the school was started again on the fourth day. The schools
of the county continued much like the one described until
the decade extending from 18-10 to 18.50. During this
period there was great improvement with schools, a large
part, but not all, of which was owing to improved school
law. They have continued to improve, and will now com-
pare favorably with the public schools in any part of the
United States. Within a few years past I have visited the
schools of every State from Missouri to Maine, and all the
schools of this couuty, and although there is still much room
for improvement in our schools, what I have said of them as
compared with others I know to be true. The private
schools — schools not coming under the name of common or
public schools — have done much to cause this improvement.
In 1839, B. G. Roots and wife opened a boarding-school
on the land where he now resides. In this school every
thing which is now required to obtain a first grade teacher's
certificate, and several other branches, were taught. He
has taught in the county some part of each of more than
thirty years, and from every year's school some have gone
out to teach. In 1842, Nelson Holt and his wife com-
menced teaching in the county, and taught much of the time
up to Mar., 1851. They did as good work as the gratluates
of normal schools now do. Miss A. F. Holt commenced
teaching in this county in I860, and is still teaching, and
adding to the pedagogue roll. Samuel Eaton, who received
his death wound on the field of Shiloh, discharging the du-
ties that devolved on him as Major of the 18th Illinois
Infantry, commenced teaching in the common school in
1842, and taught from time to time until 1851. Many of
his pupils have been counted among the best teachers in
the county.
Below I give a list of those who have acted as principals
of the graded schools in the county. Most of them have
done good work and aided in supplying the demand for
good teachers : J. B. Ward, in addition to his other work,
has for several years taught during a portion of the summer,
and in August conducted an institute for one month, the
special work of which is to drill teachers. This teachers'
drill in this county was first begun by B. G. Roots in 1870,
and has been conducted by the county superintendent every
year since then. I am sorry that 1 can not name all the
veteran teachers, but my memory is fallible, and all my ap-
peals have failed to induce them or their friends to give me
their names. I take pleasure in making honorable mention
of the following veterans, in addition to those named else-
where in this paper : James Preston, Thomas W. Blair,
Franklin Campbell, J. R.Cleveland, La Fayette Church,
Abel Campbell, David M. Hoge, A. J. Dickenson, John
Cooper, Lewis Garret, Sarah Heape (now Mrs. Abner Wil-
liams), Thos. Saunders, Obadiah West, Jacob Walker, John
S. Haggard, William Baldridge, James Holliday, F. G.
Humphreys, Rev. Lysias Heape, Isaac Hale — all of whom
have ceased to be teachers here, and most of whom have
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
passed from this life. To insert all the names of the honored
host who have done good work in our common schools within
the last thirty years would require more space than lam
allowed. I believe that John B. E iton, who has taught some
part of each of the last 37 years, and is still doing good
wurk, is the senior of the present force in ungraded schools.
The following list comprises the names of such as I recol-
lect of the sum j class who have taught long enough to he
couoted veterans, that are not named as principals of graded
schools, or otherwise : — Messrs. Samuel Y. Hawkins, John
S Williams, Jcihii D, Strait, Richard P. Todd, \Vm. M.
Eaton, Richard A. Hampleman, Benj. F. Hammack, James
W. Van Brunt, James \V. Blair, James R. Blair, Richard
S. Guy, Roh't Rushing, Samuel L. Sibbett, John F. Hanna,
J. Hosea Thurnton, Josiah Malone, Friend Smith, Sdomon
McPherson, John V. Tyler, Mrs. Eliza Miller Lipe, Julia
C. Eaton West, Sophia B. Ross Tuthill, Mattie K. East.
Sadie Harshaw White, Emma Hawkins Ward, Mary Cham-
berlin Burgess, Francis Thompson JIcMillen, Misses Laura
M. Tuthill, Mary F. L^igh, Emma Wheatley, Dora A. Lipe,
S.irah Heape, Mattie Heape, (daughters of Rev. Lysias
Heape), Mary E. K'ilsey, Marianne Milligan, Tillie Hissong,
A'lna M. Sibbett, Miry E. Cotter and Martha Mc Millin.
SCHOOL CO.M.MrsSroXERS AND CO. SUPTS.
The School Commissioner was the successor in office of
C)ra-nissioner of Scho)l Lmds, as the Co. Supt. is of School
Commissioner.
D.ivid Baldridge was first appointed by the County Court
asCoramissioner of School Lands in 1841. Chas. L.Starbuck
became S-'hool Commissioner in 184o. His resignation of
the office is dated : B.ittle Gniund N. Orleans July L'l!,
184r> ; he was followed by Wm. H. Turner in 184() ; Nelson
Holt in 1847; Marmaduke N. Furguson in 1849; Samuel
Eaton in ls.")0; Isham E. Willis "in 1854; Zabedee 1'.
Curlce in 18-37 ; Charles E. R. Winthrope in 1801 ; Richard
M. Dxvis ill 1863; James W. Blair in 1865; B. G. Roots
in 1869; John B. Ward in 1873; R. B. Anderson in 1882;
Since the schools became really public schools, free to all
children of school age all moneys used for payment of teachers
or any other purpose connected with schools, pass through
the hands of County Superintendentand Township Treasurer.
Not one defaulter is found in the list. The School laws show
that great changes in the duties devolving on County
Superintendents have been made since 1841. Then the
care of the finances comprised nearly all his dutv. Now
the law makes him indeed Superintendent of Schools. Mr.
Winthrope was the first Supt. so far as I know, or can learn,
who visited the schools officially. His immediate successor
continued this important part of the work to some extent.
Every school in the county was visited by the Supt. in 1X7(1,
in 1871 and in 1872, and the Supt. was paid five doUarsa day
for the time occupied in visiting the schools. The visitation
of schools by the County Supt. did more to elevate and
improve the schools than an equal sum expended in any
other way has ever done.
In 1873, the County Board put a stop to the Supt's.
visiting schools, by limiting the time for which he shall be
31
paid by the county for educational work, to so small a
number of days that it is impossible for him to perform all
other educational work which is peremptorily required of
him by law, within the number of days for which he is paid.
He was allowed pay for 37 days for educational work during
the last school year. The County Board has fixed the salary
of the County Supt. elected Nov. 7th, 1S.S2, at S18I) a year.
This does not include his commission as financial agent of
school fund. There are now sixty-nine school districts in
the county. Each of one hundred and nine teachers, taught
in the county, some part of the last school year. The
aggregate compensation of them was §18,623.91. The
average pay of male teachers during the year was 838 10
per month. Same of females, §30.68. Amount of Township
funds in the County, 815,8 4.63. Amount of County fund,
84353.07. Amount of tax levied by school districts, collec-
ted, and paid Township Treasurers and by them disbursed
for school ])urposes, 816,552.51.
(•'railed School.i — Although some districts had more then
one teacher previous to 1S67, there was no regular graded
school in one building previous to that date. The first
graded school in the county was opened in the brick school-
house in Du (^uoiu Jany. 2nd, l'"<67.
The Principals have been B. G. Roots, S. R. Wilson, E.
J. Palmer, J. B Ward, H. A. Cooledge, G. F.Foster, J. B.
Ward, (two years,) B. W. Pope, J. B. Ward, (three years,)
C O. Sawyer, (two years.) J. B. Ward, is now principal.
Pinckneyville Graded School began in 1S70.
Principal.^ and Assistantii. — 1870, Principal, Wm. McNeil ;
Salary per month, 860.00; Assts., E. H. Lemeu, 855.00;
D. A. Hogc, S50 00 ; 1871, Priu. S. Gee, Assts. D. A. Hoge
and Miss Jenner; 1872, Prin. D A. Hoge, Assts- Eliza
Harshaw and J. H. Thornton ; 1873, Prin. D. A. Hoge, Assts.
iMiss Lyon and Miss Mary Prinim ; l.s74, Prin. S. C. Bond,
Assts. E M. Hawkins and A. P. Owens ; 1875, Prin. B. G-
Roots, Salary per month, 8100 00. Assistants Emma
Wheatley, Miss L. Abbott, Alice Burgess, D. B. Vau.Syckle,
R. B. Anderson and Geo. H- Farmer, have each been prin-
cipal one year ; 1882, Samuel Y. Hawkins principal. la
every case in which the salary or names of assistants is
omitted in the above list I have been unable to learn what
they were.
Tamaroa. — I have searched carefully for facts respecting
the Tamaroa Graded School. I am not fully satisfied with
the fruits of my search, but I believe the following is a cor-
rect list of Princi))als. The date following the name denotes
the year in which the person named became principal. Some
of the principals named below taught bef)re the school be-
came a regular Graded School in one building :
Green, 185!) ; Wells, 1860 ; Miss A. F. Holt, 1862-63-64 ;
p. White, 18(i5; A. Etherton, 1866; Wyatt, 1867; J. B.
Ward, 1868 ; Miss A. F. Holt, 1869 ; W. E. Smith, 1870;
J. B. Ward, 1871; P. White, 1872; Wm. Edwards, 1873 i
B. W. Pope, 1874; W. G. Heape, 1875; J. H. Thornton,
1876; B. G. Roots, 1877; R. B. Anderson, 1878; E.J.
Ward, 1879; P. F. Adkins, 1880; Matt. Fergerson, 1881 ;
C. Laban Kruse, 1882.
In Du Qiipin School, every since it became a graded
242
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
school, all the branches named in a first grade certificate are
taught.
These branches have all been taught at sorae time in the
other two graded schools. Miss Holt taught some of the first
grade branches while she was Principal of Taniaroa. Dur-
ing her last term of service the School Board prohibited the
teaching of any but second grade branches, and the first grade
has been taught but little in this school since then. About
one fourth of the teachers in the ungraded schools are qual-
ified to teach first grade branches, and mostof these do teach
some of them.
On August 25 and 26, 1882, sixty-nine applicants for
teachers' certificates were examined. Fifteen of these re-
ceived First Grade certificates; thirty-five received Second
Grade, and nineteen failed of coming up to the lowest stand-
ing, on which the County Superintendent issues a certificate.
Du Quoin and Pinckneyville are the only points in the
county at which there are many colored children. At each
of these places a separate public school for them has been
kept for several years past.
The few of them who reside in other districts attend the-
common school with the whites.
Du Quoin Female Seminary- — \\a.a located about five
miles southeast of Du Quoin, in what was then known as
Du Quoin, and now known as Old Du Quoin. Next to the
County seat, it was the largest village in the County. This
institution should be named in this history as having been
an important factor in improving the public schools. It
came into existance through the influence of an eastern
teacher, (Miss Paine, of South Hadley, Mass.,) sent out by
an Educational Society in answer to an application for a
teacher for this locality.
Miss Paine commenced her teaching in the District School-
House June, 1852. More scholars came in than the house
would accommodate, so a room was fitted up in another build-
ing, and a second teacher (Miss Reynolds, from Connecticut,)
sent for, and employed to assist Miss Paine in her work.
In the fall of IS'^S, Miss Paine opened a private school^
which became the Seminary after a charter had been ob-
tained from the Legislature, and a Board of Trustees ap-
pointed. The corner-stone of an excellent Seminary building
was laid June 13, 1855, and a permanent superstructure
was erected in a reasonable time.
" To train teachers on the field " was laid down as theprom-
inent object of the school. Teachers' diplomas were given
to those that became proficient in the branches required by
the school law of this Siate; and those that went out from
this institution to teach, made marked improvements in the
Echools where they taught.
Rev. Josiah Wood devoted himself largely to the welfare
of the Seminary. The early teachers, as copied from a cata-
logue, were Miss E. Paine, Miss Jane Hunt, Miss M. M.
Moulton, Mrs. E. R. Saunders, Miss H. L. Plimpton, Miss
Lizzie A. Dole, Miss Hattie Paine.
The debt contracted in erecting the building, caused it to
pass into private hands in 1872. Since it became private
property a school for both sexes has been maintained with
creditable success.
Supplement.
Since writing the foregoing, I have gathered the following
additional statements respecting the schools in each of the
precincts, into which the county is now divided, from such
sources, that I believe them reliable:
Pinckneyville. — -The first school in this precinct, was taught
in a log school house 16x16 in 1831, near the West side of
Four Mile Prairie, at $2 50 per scholar for six months.
In 1832, Eliza Smith, from Kentucky, taught in a small
log-school-house near Thomas Armstrong's. Later S. W.
Woodside taught here.
June 3d, 1833, the Sheriff, by order of County Court,
leased the Court-house for school purposes at fifty cents a
month, to be paid by the teacher, or by the subscribers to
the School Article.
Paradise. — The first school in this precinct was taught in
1830, by John S. Haggard.
A man named Hagaman taught in another part of the
precinct at the same time. No building was erected for
school purposes previous to 1838. Up to this time schools
were taught in the house of the teacher, or in some
deserted cabin. The first teacher in the new school-honse^
was R. P. Paramore. Obadiah West was also an early
teacher in this precinct.
Du Quoin Precinct— The first school in this precinct was
taught by Abraham Brayshaw, about 1830, in the west
part of N ine Mile Prairie. The first school-house was erected
■ibout three and a half miles south of where Du Quoin now
is, and a Mr. Beneldo was the first who taught in it.
Tamaroa Precinct. — The Bland school-house, about five
miles northeast from Tamaroa, was erected in 1832 or '3,
and named after " Grandfather " Bland. First teacher was
Jacob Walker, and the second teacher was "Granddaddy"
Johnson, who taught in 1834.
Cutler Precinct. — The first school was taught in Lost
Prairie, by Miss E. Tilden. The first school-house was
erected on section 16, T 5,S. R. 4 W, in 1835, in the same
prairie. Johp Cooper taught in it during the summer of
1S35 About the same date a school was taught for a short
time in Conant's Prairie, but it could not be kept up.
Grand Cote Precinct. — The first school was taught in a
little cabin, on S. E. i of sec. 30, T. 4. S R. 4 W. The next
school was taught by John Fulton, in his kitchen on sec 4,
town 4, in 1835 or '6.
Beavcoup Precinct. — The children who resided west of
Hutihing's Prairie, at first attended at "Big Rock" school-
house, in Washington county. Those who lived east of this
prairie, attended school in Mud Prairie. The first school-
house was erected on Edward Hodge's place, the second on
the Truster place, in 1850.
Soidlnvestern.— Robert Clark taught the first school in
1825, in a little log school-house, erected the same year.
The architecture of the school-houses named, in connection
with the several precincts, was similar to the description,
given by Messrs. Eaton, and copied in the former part of
this sketch. Books were also much the same. In some
schools, the American Preceptor, Columbian Orator and
Pike's Arithmetic, were used also.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
243
CHAPTER XIII.
ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY.
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
REFORMED rUE-BYTElUAN CHURCH.
ISy REV. \V. J. .^MILKV
ral^jE^2^9nK history of the Reformed Presbyterian
./,.*3i^ni /^GiK) Church in Randolph county goes back
to the year 1S18. To the Rev. Samuel
Wylie belongs the credit of the planting
of the church. He was boru in County
Antrim, Ireland, February 19, 1790;
came to the United States in 1807 ; en-
tered the I'niversity of Pennsylvania,
where he graduated in the class of 1811 ;
prepared for the ministry in the Theological Seminary at
Philadelphia, under the care of his uncle. Dr. S. B. Wylie,
and was licensed to preach in May, lfSl.5, at Philadelphia,
by the Middle Presbytery.
In the summer of 1817 he visited various places in the
West, passing through Illinois and continuing his travels
as far as Boonville, Mo. On his return he again passed
through Illinois and spent the winter in supplying the va-
cancies in Tennessee and South Carolina.
At the meeting of the Synod in Pittsburg in the latter
part of Miy, 1818, he reported his travels and the pros-
pect for church extension in the West. Synod ordered
the Middle Presbytery to take him on trial for ordination,
and he was accordingly ordained in Pittsburg, Pa , on the
2d of June, 1818, and sent as a nii.-sionary to Southern
Illinois. Mr. Wylie reached Kaskaskia the last day of
July following and immediately entered upon his work.
The field of operation at fir^t was Randolph county,
though it afterward embraced parts of Perrv, Washington
and St Clair. A number of families belonging to the As-
sociate Reformed church in South Carolina had moved into
the county early in the present century, and made a settle-
ment near the present town of Preston. They had been
organized into a congregation by Rev. S. Brown, of Ken-
tucky, a number of years before Mr. Wylie's arrival, and
being without preaching from their own ministers, by request,
Mr. Wylie made his principal preaching place with them.
Members of the Reformed Presbyterian church began to
come in. James M. Gray was the first to arrive. He came
in October, and was followed immediately by his father-in-
law, James Wilson, and family. They came from near
Vincennes, Indiana, where they had lived a number of
years after leaving South Carolina. They first settled near
Kaskaskia, but finally located about three miles south of
Sparta.
John McDill, Sr., and Hugh McKelvey, from South
Carolina, came out in the summer of 1818, and bought land
in Township 4-5. On their way home they stopped in Ten-
nesseee with William Edgar, Samuel Nisbet and Samuel
Little, who had removed from South Carolina a number of
years before, and informed them of the mission begun in
Illinois. They immediitely set out for Kaskaskia and pur-
chased laud, and Messrs. Edgar and Little moved out in the
spring of 1819. Mr. Nisbet, however, was detained and did
uot arrive until September. Mr. Dill did not move out until
November, 1819, though his son, John, came in the spring
of that year, and began to improve his father's place. Mr.
McKelvey did not come until l'<20. Mrs. Elizabeth
Ritchie came in 1818; John McMillan and family, from
Princeton, Indiana, arrived about the close of 1818 or the
the beginning of 1819, and settled on Plum creek, near the
present town of Houston. David Cathcart and his son-in-
law, William Campbell, from South Carolina, came in the
spring of 1819, and settled in the lower end of Grand Cote
Prairie. Alexander Alexander arrived in the spring of
1819, and bought land near the old grave-yard, and after im-
proving his place, returned to South Carolina and brought
out his family in the latter part of 1819. His father-iulaw,
John McDill, Sr., James Munford and John Dickev, with
their families came at the same time. John McMillan, of the
Associate church, also came with them and settled between
E en and Sparta, and Munford and Dickey settled north-
east of E len. James Strahan, from western Pennsylvania,
came in the spring of 1819, and settled first down toward
Kaskaskia, but finally in the west end of Grand Cote.
Mr. Wylie continued to preach in Kaskaskia and in the
Irish settlement and among the Covenanters, until the arrival
of William Edgar and Samuel Little, when the first session
was constituted, May 24, 1819, at James McClurken's, about
six miles southwest of Sparta. William Edgar had been
ordained to the eldership in the Rocky creek congregation,
Sjuth Carolina, in 18i)l, and Saml. Little in Hephzibah con-
gregation, Tennessee, at its organization in the spring of 181.5.
This may be reckoned the formal organization of Bethel
Reformed Presbyterian Church. It is thought by some that
the first communion was held at that time.
A call was made soon after for Rev. J Wylie and for-
warded to Synod to meet in Conoeocheague in August, 1819.
The call itself bears no date, but the letter accompanying it
bears date June 7, 1819, and is signed on behalf of the
meeting by James Wilson and Samuel Little.
The following names, with their accompanying subscrip-
tions, are attached to the call, viz.: James Wil.son, S20 ;
Samuel Little, S15 ; James McClurkcn, SI •") ; William Edgar,
SIO; James Strahan, 812; James M. Gray, 810; David
Cathcart, 810; H. H. Christie, So ; John McMillan, S15 ;
Alexander Alexander, 810; John McDill, 810; Thos. G.
Armour, 810; Elizabeth Ritchie, 820. The names of fifteen
others follow, who had not the opportunity of signing in their
proper place, viz. ; Jennet C. Edgar, Nancy Wilson, Sarah
Wilson, Rachel Wilson, Jennet Strahan, John Wilson, Jr,
Martin Wilson, Jenny Wilson. Jenny Gray, Jenny Little,
.Susanna McClurken, Ann Strahan, Margaret McMillan,
Mary Edgar. Accompanying the call was a subscription
amounting to 8150 from the Associate Reformed congrega-
tion already referred to, for which they desired part of Mr.
Wylie's time. The matter is thus referred to m the letter :
'• We beg leave to add that there is in this county a verv
244
HISTOBY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
respectable congregation belonging to the Associate Ee-
formcd church. These people live amongst us, or more
properly, we live amongst them. They are (we believe) pre-
pared to supplicate for part of Mr. Wylie's time. The
places where he would preach to them would be tolerably
convenient to his own people. This circumstance would
appear accommodating to us at present. We have not,
however, craved their assistance; but we are more than
willing to further their edification and comfort."
Ihe letter urges the acceptance of the call strongly
and skillfully. Synod referred the call to the Western
Presbytery, and at a meeting of that court held in Hartford,
Indiana, October 11, 181!), it was presented and accepted,
and the Rev. John Kell appointed to install Mr. Wjlie as
pastor. For some reason the installation did not take place.
Presbytery met in Bethel congregation in the spring of
1820. The question of Mr. Wylie's settlement was again
brought up, but it was deemed best to wait another year.
At this time a communion was held at Samuel Little's,
and James Mumford and James McClurken were added tp
the session ; the former had been an elder in South Carolina ;
the latter was furmerly a member of the Associate Reformed
church, and having joined the Covenanters in 1819, was
chosen and ordained to the fellowship at this time.
A second call was made out for Mr. Wylie May 2'2,
1821. It was signed by thirty-five members, who subscribed
$208 for his support. The names on the call show the finan-
cial but not the numerical strength of the congregation. It
is probable that the number of the membership at this time
was about seventy. The call was presented to Presbytery
on the 24th of May, and at length accepted, Mr. Wylie
agreeing to give the congregation half his time, leaving the
other half to be employed in mission work. He was in-
stalled pastor on the 28th of May, 1821, over the congre-
gation which he had gathered in the field where he had
labored now nearly three years as a missionary.
All the names of those contributing for ministerial sup-
port on the former call are on this except those of James M.
Gray, who had died, Thos. G. Armour aud H. H. Christie.
The follovfing new names appear: Thomas Blair, who came
from Pittsburg, but remained only a short time aud then
returned; Joseph Weir, from South Carolina, who settled
iu Lively Prairie ; Alexander McKelvey, who settled near
his father, Hugh, in Grand Cote, in 1820 ; William Temple,
William Marshall and James Beattie, who came together
from the vicinity of Pittsburgh in 1821, and settled north-
east of Eden. Mr. Temple afterward located about three
miles west of Sparta. James Muuford aud John Dickey,
whose arrival has already been noticed ; John Alexander,
who settled near his brother ; Adam Edgar, son of William
Edgar, and came at the same time; Ann McMillan (mother
of John McMillan on Plum creek), and Mary Boyd, an
unmarried woman who lived with her ; Robert Bratney,
who came from Tennessee in 1280; his son, Joseph, who
came at the same time, was alto a member. They settled
west of Lively Prairie, near Preston. Robert Sinclair, who
came from South Carolina and settled in Grand Cote ;
Samuel Nisbet, who arrived with his family from Tennessee
September 11, 1819, and settled east of Eden ; Jeremiah
Murphy, also from Tennessee, who settled in the lower part
of the county, near Shiloh ; James Gordon, son-in-law of
James Wilson, who came from Indiana in the fall of 1819,
settled south of Sparta, where his sou, A. J. Gordon, now
lives; Hugh McKelvey and Samuel Allan, who came iu
1820 ; William Cambell, who came in the spring of 1819
with his father-in-law, David Cathcart, and James McWil-
lan, also from South Carolina, who settled on the places
where John McClinton now lives. The subscriptions ranged
from two to fifteen dollars.
Among other members who came at an early day may be
mentioned Robert Moore and wife. He remained but a
short time, but during his residence here he taught the first
school iu the neighborhood. This was probably in 1821,
and the school-house was on sec. 7, town 5-5, southeast of
Sparta. The next school was taught in the summer of
1822, by Gordon Ewing in a house southeast of Eden. Mr.
Ewing came out from Philadelphia in the spring of 1822,
along with Mrs. Wylie (mother of Rev. Wylie) and her
daughter, Mrs. Dobbins. The following year he was en-
gaged in teaching in an academy in Kaskaskia along with
Mr. Wylie. He was received as a student of theology by
the Western Presbytery June 2, 1823, and subsequently
became a minister iu the Reformed Presbyterian church.
While teaching in Kaskaskia he was a principal agent in
securing the organization of a Sabbath-school in the fall of
1823. It was attended in the morning by the white " child-
ren, English and French, to the number of fifty, and in the
afternoon by the blacks to the same number. Some of the
most respectable citizens are engaged as teachers."
The congregation still continued to increase. The early
records of session are missing, but a report prepared for
Presbytery, bearing date March 25. 1825, gives the number
of members received up to that time as follows: Received
on testimonial, 77 ; on personal examination, 44. Of these,
seven had removed to other congregations, and eight had
died, leaving the membership at that date 106, and the
number of families 51. The number of infant baptisms
was 42.
The first places of preaching were under the trees of the
forest, in cabins and in barus. The first house of worship
was a frame 28x40 feet, built in 1823. It soon became too
small to accommodate the growing congregation. It was
lecided first, July 14, 1827, to enlarge the house, and finally,
February 11, 1830, to sell and build a new brick church.
Two sites were named for the nevv church — the one the
old site lowland (about 200 yards south of the old grave-
yard) ; the other upland, about three-fourths of a mile
northeast of the old church, within the present limits of
Eden, — the location to be determined by the amount of the
subscriptions in favor of each. The new site was chosen. A
building committee was appointed, and the work let ipr
$800. Those in favor of the old site became dissatisfied,
and the matter was finally referred to Presbytery for settle-
ment.
Pending its settlement, a petition for a separate organiza-
tion was pre.sented, signed by 27 families, who favored the
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
245
old site aiid were opposed to the new chuuh. The rtquett
was granted and a second congregation formed on the oih of
November, 1831.
The first elders in Bethel congregation, were in the new
organization, and claiming this to be the original congrega-
tion, they prefixed the name Old to the original name
Bethel, and are so known to this day. The new church
was 45x(i0. It was inclosed in 1H3'2, so that the congrega-
tion used it during that summer and the summer following.
For many yeais, a diflerence of opinion existed among
ministers and members of the Keformed Presbyterian
Church, respecting the moral character of the United States
government, and consequently a diflerence of opinion, re-
specting the practical application of the principles of the
church on civil government.
This diflerence of opinion, was the occasion of a division
in the body, in I'^-'iS. The general Synod was divided into
two separate organizations, in August of that year.
The one retained the name General Synod, and the other
is known as the Synod of the Reformed Presbyterian Church.
The former allows her members to decide for themselves,
as to their participation in civil aflairs, prohibiting only sucli
conuection with the government as involves immorality.
The latter does not allow her members to vote, or hold
office, provided this implies support of the Constitution of
the United States, or to sit on juries. This division affected
nearly all the congregations in the body.
Bethel was divided. The pastor, and James Munford,
J. K. Taylor, James Blair and Thomas Blair, members of
session, with the majority of the congregation, adhered to
General Synod.
A. McMillan and Jas. Coulter, with the minority of the
congregation, took the side of the Synod. Old Bethel also
sided with the Synod. James McClurken, however adhered
to the General Synod, and returning to Bethel, he was again
chosen ruling elder, March, 1^34, an office which he filled
until his death, Jan. 17th, 18.51. A few other families re-
turned about the same time.
The new cliurch building was inclosed, but not yet finished.
The question of ownership arose. Samuel Nisbet and An-
drew Miller, the former with General Synod, the latter
with the Synod, proposed a settlement. Mr. Miller chose
the church, and each chose two arbitrators (they choosing
a fifth ) to whom the decision of the terms was left. They
decided, that those taking the church should g<-t all sub-
scriptions given by those, not members of the church, and
those with the General Synod should receive their own sub-
scriptions back again.
In the spring of 1834, the congregation resolved to build
a new brick church, oOxGO, close by the second building.
The old frame church was occupied by the congregation,
while the new one was being built.
It was begun in 1834, and inclosed the following year.
The whole cost was about §2700, which was mostly provided
for, by the sale of the pews.
In 1828, 69 families and 127 communicants are reported.
In 1836, 90 families and 20") communicants are reported.
The next year shows, 99 families and 233 communicants.
The congregation now began to colonize. As early as
February, 1834, a petition was presented from Mud Creek,
asking for supplies. Supplies were given from lime to time,
untd June l?th, 1838, when the Mud Creek society was or-
ganized, as Salera congregation, John Hemphill and James
Mclntire, being ordained elders. .James Wilson, an elder
in Bethel, also belonged to the new organization. The so-
ciety in Six mile, and that in Hill Prairie, received organiza-
tion in 1>'42. The former took the name Concord, and the
latter Hill Prairie. Dr. R. W. Marshall and Robert
Mathews, were the first elders in Hill Prairie. We do not
follow its history farther, save to say that in connection
with Concord, it formed the pastoral charge of Rev. M.
Harshaw, who was ordained to the ministry in the Bethel
church Eden, Nov. 9th, 1«42. The history of Concord will
he given among the churches of Perry county. Grand Cote,
on the northeast, look steps for an organization, in 1849,
and it was effected at the house of James Robb, on the 8th
of February, 1850 James Robb, and A. R, McKelvey,
were chosen to the eldership, and ordained in Eden on the
7th of March, following. The membership numbered sixty.
Bethel still continued to flourish, and in \>*'j'^ there were
over 280 communicants. At an earlier date there were over
■350 communicants.
In 1860, another congregation called Smyrna, was or-
ganized in Opossumden Prairie, on the southwest. James
C. Wilson and John H. Breckenridge, were ordained elders,
and the membership numbered 32. After receiving supplies
for a few years, it became disorganized, most of the members
returning to Bethel.
In 1867, the United Presbyterians organized a congrega-
tion, about bix miles north of Eden, and a numberof families
belonging to Bethel, residing in that vicinity, connected
with it.
During this year and the year following, the entire de-
nomination was stirred up, over the subjects of psalmody
and communion. Geo H. Stuart, of Philadelphia, a leading
elder in the church, and a member of the General Synod
at its meeting held in May, 1868, in Pittsburg, Pa., for in-
subordination to the .Synod, expressed with reference to her
rules, on the subjects before mentioned, was suspended. This
action led to the withdrawal of quite a number of ministers
and members from the fellowship of General Synod. Bethel
was affected by it. The Scotch element in the congregation
almost unanimously, withdrew and subseciueutly effected an
organization in Sparta, in connection with the Old School
Presbyterian Church. This church was organized on the
5th of June, 1869, with 60 members, most of whom were
formerly members of Bethel. As many as 70 in all with-
drew on this account.
In 1870 the question of union between the United and
Reformed Presbyterian churches, was again agitated. A
basis of Union, framed by a committee from the two bodies,
was laid before the General Synod, in May, 1870, but was
not adopted. It was adopted by the General Assembly of
the United Presbyterian Church.
The ministers of the Western Presbytery, with the excep-
tion of Rev. Dr. Wylie, in August, 1870, withdrew from
246
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
the Reformed Presbyterian Church. Concord, Hill Prairie,
and Grand Cote, were divided, about one-third of the mem-
bership of each going into the U. P. Church. lu Bethel,
no new organization was attempted, but quite a number of
families withdrew and connected with the United Presby-
terian church in Sparta.
Previous to this action however. Rev. Dr. Wylie had at
his own request, been released from the pastoral care of
Bethel congregation. His release took eflect on the 20th
of February, 1870, when he had entered upon the 81st year
of his age. That day being the Sabbath, he explained Psalm
90: 13 — 17, and preached in the forenoon from Rom. 8. 28,
and in the afternoon from 2 Cor. l-S : 11.
He still remained in the congregation, preaching as op-
portunity ofiered, in the different congr gations, now desti-
tute by the death or withdrawal of their pastors, — until
called to his reward, March 20tii, 1872.
He fell asleep peacefully, in the 83d year of his age, hav-
ing nearly completed the 54th year of his labors as a mis-
sionary in that field, and the 57th of his ministry.
His last public service was at the opening of the new church
in Grand Cote congregation, Jan. 14th, 1872. He explained
J'salm 84, and preached the sermon from Hebrews 12 : 28
On the 28th of December, 1871, he presided in the mo-
deration of a call for a pastor in Bethel. The call resulted
in the choice of the writer, who accepted the call and was
ordained and installed on the 5th of June, 1872, in the
church of Eden.
Though the congregation had been greatly reduced
through repeated divisions, it has since enjoyed a good de-
gree of prosperity. In the spring of 1876, it was decided to
remove from Eden, and locate in Sparta. Accordingly, the
Methodist church, which wa^ then offlred for sale, was
bought and completed, and the services of the congregation
have been held in Sparta, since the first of July, 1876.
The records, as far as preserved, show that over a thous-
and members were received into full communion, during
Mr. Wylie's ministry. The present membership is about
170 (Jan. 1883.) The financial aftairs of the congregation
are managed by a board of trustees, and a treasurer. The
present members of the board are : S. F. Hyndman, J. F
Blair, \Vm H. Wilson, J. C Wilson, J. M. Lackey, S.
Baird, and Wm. C. Fullerton. J. C. Boyle is treasurer of
the congregation.
The session consists of the pastor, W. J. Smiley, and the
following ruling elders : John McCaughan, S. T. Nisbet,
John Temple, J. G. Wylie, W. W. Hemphill, Wm. Mc-
Intyre, Hugh Nisbet, Neal Mclntyre, and D. R Stormont.
The following persons have entered the ministry, from this
congregation, viz : Gordon T. Ewing, Hugh A. McKelvey,
Wm. T. Wylie, Robert Brown, R. C. Wyatt, and John B.
Galloway.
Ijisl of Ruling Elders in Bethel Congregation, with time of entering
upon o£ice.
* James Wilso
n, April 29, 1817.
6 James Cr.awford, .ipril 19, 1855.
•.lolin Ciimpb
^11, Sept. 11, 1841.
a Samuel Neil, Oct. 31, 1861.
♦James Wllso
n, Jr., Sept. 11, H4l.
0 Samuel W. McKelvey, April 30, 1863.
«J..lin Ri.'lim
>n, Sept. 11, 1811.
James F. Blair, April 30, 1863.
n Davi.l IMiiiH.
r.l, tieul. 11, ls41.
6. James B. Anderson, April 30, 1863.
•Chail.- M'-K
.•!■,. 'V, F.'!. :.. l-l:l.
Samuel T. Ni'<bet, April 30, 1863.
John .M. (HI
ill', I'"- ; .' . 1 - 1 ;.
s, Milton McMillan, Sept. 21, 1871.
»Hearv \\ il-.
1 1 ■' ' . 1 . 1 ;
John Temple, Sept. 21,1871.
James G. Wvlif. S.'lil. 21, 1871.
« Rolv'lt W M
n- , Ml', It 1850.
« Willi.iiii M.'l
. nti, ..,-,, u, i»;,a,
Wm- W II rni.liill, n.t 10, 1876.
*Johii WiN.iii
■ i.-i 1 1, isr.j.
Will M.liiui- 1 1 ■■ 11. 1S76.
fc.I:um-s r,.uc
A|ii II I'l, lH.iS.
Himh Ni.'- 1 III 1 ' 1^-2.
.. J..s,.,,l, .M.H
■iii\. A|inl 19, 1865.
N..:il, M. hill (. . Ill 1 I'll. 1S82,
*.SiiMrl L, Uo>
a, .Vpiil ID, 1855.
Dand U. .-M ...uuual, ikt. 19, 18S2.
> William Edgar, May 24, 1819.
•Samuel Little, May 24, 1819.
► James Muntorri, April 28, 1,S20.
•James McClurken, April 28, 1820.
• Archibald McMillan, April l^, 1623.
• Thos. G. Armour, 1826 probably.
•James Coulter, May 5, 1831.
'John K Tavlor, Aug. 11, 1832.
' .1 nil.... llh.ir. Aug. 11, 1832.
' j III. 1, III- r.i 111, Aug. 11, 1S32.
■ w hliiiiii I'lin-nii, "April 11, 1834.
' Siiinii.il .\islii/l, April 11, 1834.
• William Jamison, April 11, 1834.
• John Fulton, May 30, 1835.
* deceased.
a now in the United Presbyterian Church.
b now in the Presbyterian Church.
Forty-two persons in all have been ruling Elders in
Bethel, of whom but seventeen are now living.
Messrs: Edgar J. Munford, A. McMillan, and J. Wilson
were elders in South Carolina ; Messrs. Little, Taylor, and
James and Thos. Blair in Tennessee ; Mr. Fulton in Ohio ;
Dr. Marshall in Hill Prairie ; and Mr. M. McMillan in
Concord , though the last two were members of Bethel
before Hill Prairie and Concord were organized:
BETHEL SYNOD.
This congregation is a part of the original Bethel, and its
separate history dates from the division of 1833.
At that time its members chose the new church building,
still unfinished, and agreed to pay those in connection with
General Synod the amount subscribed by them for building
the church. Rev. Daniel Steele of Ohio was the first minis-
ter who visited them. In the summer of 1834 he preached
here and in Old Bethel and Elkhorn. During his stay he
organized a congregation in Elkhorn, in connection with
Synod, which obtained Rev. S. McKinney as pastor in 1835.
This congregation does not claim connection with Bethel, al-
though Mr. Wylie had labored there and gathered in some
members before the division.
Beth 1 was dependent on supplies for several years. The
first effort to obtain a pastor resulted in the choice of Rev.
J. B Johnston on the 17th of September, 1839. The call
was declined. On the 27th of January, 1840, a call was
made in favor of Mr. Hugh Stevenson. Having accepted
the call, he was ordained by the Presbytery of the Lakes,
July 13, 1840, and soon after began his labors in Bethel,
and was installed pastor on the 15th Oct., 1840. He died,
greatly lamented, on the 15th of May, 1846, in the 38th year
of his age During his pastorate 76 persons were received
into full communion.
The ue.xt pastor was the Rev. James Milligan. He begau
his labors in M rch 1848. The congregation still increased
in numbers, and during his pastorate the Church Hill con-
gregation in Grand Cote Prairie was organized. He was
released from his charge, at his own request, on the 9th of
August, 1854.
On the 13th of August, 1855, Mr. D. J. Shaw was called
to become pastor, but declined the call.
Mr. D. S. Paris was called on the 26th of March, 1857.
He accepted the call and was ordained and installed Oct. 7,
1857. From that time until the present Mr. Paris has con-
tinued to discharge faithfully the duties of his office, and his
pastorate is now the longest in the whole community.
In 1874 the old church and lot were sold and a new brick
church 40x60 feet was built in Sparta, at a cost of over
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
247
85,000. It was first used for public worship on Sabbath,
Feb 21, 1875, the pastor preaching the opcniDg sermon from
John 4: 23. The number of members at present is 94.
Among those who have entered the ministry in the Reformed
Presbyterian Church from this congregation may be named :
A. C. Todd, and T. P. Stevenson, editor of the Christkin
Staifsman, publisiied iu Philadelphia in the interest of na-
tional reform.
The following is the list of officers in the congregation,
and the time of entering on office:
DEACONS.
James Pre.eton, Feb. 1841.
Wm. Miller, do.
Ale-tanderMcKelvpy, do.
Robert Sinclair, Feb. 6. 184S.
I.«aac H. Hayes, Sept. 4, 1856.
Charles Preston, do.
C. H. Slormoni, Ocloher 14, 1859.
R. H. Sinclair, .*pril 27, IStJii.
R.J. Miller, April la, 1877.
Juhu Siiiari, do. do.
Archibald McMillan.
James Coulter.
John Hunter.
Alexander Moore.
Robert Miller. Feb. 6, 1S45.
Wm. Bovd, do. do.
ph f atton, Oct. 31, 1830.
Mattli
Pre-
do.
Wm. A. Stevenson, Oct. 14, 1859.
James Finlev, April 27, l8t^.
R. H. .Sinclair, .May 7, 1868.
Daniel Dickev.
A. \V. Hunter; April 19, 1877.
John E. Wils
<lo. do.
Present Members of Session are:— Those now serving are:— Isaac H.
Rev. I). S. Paris, Pastor; J. Palton, C. Haves. Charles Pre.>.ton,C. H.Stnrmont
R. Miller, V. Dickey, A. W. Hunter and and R. J. .Miller.
J. E. Wilson.
OLD BETHEL CONGREGATION.
Old Bethel was organized by act of Presbytery, Nov. 5th,
1831. Twenty-seven families joined iu the request for a
separate organization, and at the first meeting of Bethel
session after this, three other families asked to be certified to
the new congregation.
As they opposed the building of the new church, and had
with them the first elders of Bethel, they claimed to be the
original congregation ; and, to make sure their claim, pre-
fi.\ed the term "Old" to the original name "Bethel," and
are so known. The records of the congregation for a period
of nine years are lost.
In the divi.-ion of 1833 the congregation, with the excep-
tion of a few families, went with the Synod. The congre-
gation received supplies until the settlement of their first
pastor, Rev. James Wallace, Nov. 1st, 1840. Before this
time, Alexander J. Edgar and James Finley had been added
to the session.
The first election for deacons was held January 11, 1841,
when John Finley, William Edgar and Robert Weir were
chosen and ordained on the 20th of the same month. Archi-
bald Rodgers was added to the session Sept. 26 1845.
On the 10th of December, 184(5, Archibald Hunter and
William Weir were ordained to the eldership, and David
Ewing was added to the board of deacons. James Mathews
and Robert Redpath were chosen deacons Sept. lltli, 1850
and ordained in October following. Thonuis Doneily was
chosen ruling elder at the same time. On the 3d of Feb ,
1853, J. A. Brown and Robert W. Lyons were invested with
the office of deacon, and at the same time James C. Lynn
was added to the session. James Mathews was added to the
session Feb 1, 1855, and John Weir, April 15th, 185X. At
the latter date, John Lynn and Joseph B. Mathews were
added to the board of deacons On the 5th of May, 1865,
Hugh Mathews, John Houston and Wm J. S Cathcart were
invested with the office of ruling elders.
On the 16tb of May, 1867, Mr. AVallace having received
an appointment to bring the subject of National Reform be-
fore the people of Illinois, asked to be released from bis con-
gregation His request was granted, and the pulpit was
declared vacant on the first Sabbath of July following. His
pastorate extended over a period of nearly twenty-seven
years. After filling his appointment in the interests of Na-
tional Reform, he continued to labor in the work of the
ministry as opportunity offered, until his death, May 1st,
1877.
The first house of worship was built a!)out the time that
Mr. Wallace became pastor. It was a frame buildiug, and
stood on the hill near Adam Wylie's residence. It was de-
stroyed by fire in 1852. A brick church was built the fol-
lowing year on Plum Creek, more than a mile S. W. of the
old site, and the congregation still continues to worship in it.
About the same lime a part of the congregation that had
been seeking a separate organization for some time, built a
frame church on John Lynn's farm, about two miles N. W.
of the site of the old church.
Failing to obtain a separate organization, some united
with other congregations under care of .Synod, and the rest
declined the authority of Synod and organized in connection
with the Reformed Presbytery.
In April, 18GS, a call was made out for Mr. James A.
Black, a licentiate of the Pittsburgh Presbytery. It was
declined. A year later, a call was made upon Mr. W. J.
Gillespie, a licentiate of the same Presbytery. This call
was accepted, and Mr. Gillespie was ordained on the 14th of
October. IX&K After laboring with much acceptance for a
year, he joined the United Presbyterian Church, and became
pastor of the congregation in Sparta. In November, 1^71,
a call was made upon Mr. S. J. Crowe, which was declined.
Another call, made October 7, 1872, in favor of Rev. N. M.
Johnston, was also declined. In the spring of 1874 a call
was made for Rev. P P. Boyd, of Cedarville, Ohio.
He accepted the call, and was installed pistor July 20,
1874, a relation which he still sustains.
During his pastorate the following members have been
added to session — Thos. Finley, Thos. Orr, Louis M. Patter-
son. Their ordination took place Dec. 4th , 1875. At the
same time J. T. Weir, J. H. Marshall and D J. Reid were
ordained deacons.
The congreg.ation is in a flourishing condition, and stronger
than at any firmer period of its history. The present mem-
bership is 168. J. McDonald and J. JI. Armour entered
the ministry from this congregation, and J. M. Finley,
licentiate was also brought up in it.
HILL PRAIRIE CONGREGATION.
(Reformed Presbytery). That part of Old Bethel congre-
gation referred to above as seekinga separate organization
was known as the Hill Prairie society of the Reformed
Prft'^byterian Church.
In August 1857, twenty members of that society petitioned
the Reformed Presbytery for an organization. The request
was granted and on the 4th of Nov. Rev. David Steele and
James Williams, (ruling Elder) committee of Presbytery,
248
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
organized a congregation consisting of twenty-three members.
Joseph Keys, Wm. R. Lynn and Johu Tweed were chosen
candidates for office of ruling Elder, and ordained on the
12th of the same month, and the first communion was held
on the Sabbath following.
In March 1858 a unanimous call was made upon Rev.
David Steele to become pastor, the congregation asking for
one halt of his time. The call was signed by twenty-three
members as follows: James Elder, Jenny C. Holmes, Mary
Fowlds, Ellen Cathcart, Joseph Lynn, William R. Lynn,
Nancy Lynn, Joseph Keys, Ellis Keys, John Cathcart, Mary
Cathcart, Hugh Tweed, Jennet Twetd, Jane 'Cuthbertson,
David Tweed, Amelia J. Tweed, James E. Wilson, Ann
Wilson, John J. Marshall, Elizaeth Marshall, John Tweed,
Nancy Tweed and Robert J. Ritchie.
Mr. Steele began his labors in June 1858, and continued
to do the work of a pastor among them about eight years,
though he was never formally installed pastor over the
congregation. At the end of that time he removed to Phila-
delphia having accepted a call from the congregation^ in
that city.
On the 17th of October 1861, M. H. Lynn M. D, was
added to the session In May 18(53, the congregation had
increased so that the communicants numbered forty-five.
Session having become disorganized by the death of all
its members, except John Tweed, on the '27th of May 1867,
J. H. Marshall and Hugh Tweed were chosen candidates
for the Eldership. On the 6th of June following, Mr.
Maishall was ordained, Mr. Tweed having declined to
serve. The membership at this time was 35— The congre-
gation aiterward decreased but there is still a remnant which
is supplied from lime to time by the Presbytery.
GRAND COTE E. P. CHURCH.
Grand Cote was the fourth congregation formed from
Bethel in connection with General Synod after the division
of 1833. At the fall meeting of the We.stern Presbytery in
1849, Bethel session was authorized to organize a congre-
gation in Grand Cote Prairie if the way should be open.
This decree was carried into effect on the 8th of Feb. 1850,
at the house of James Robb ; James Robb and A. R.
McKelvey were chosen ruling Elders and their ordination
took place on the first Thursday of March in the Bethel
church in Edtn The congregation consisted of sixty mem-
bers and took its name from the paririe in which it was
located The site chosen for the church was withiu the
limits of the present town of Coulterville. The first building
was a frame 40 x 50, erected in 1851 though not finished for
some years afterwards.
Starting under such favorable circumstances they soon
sought to obtain a pastor, and on the 15th of August 1850
in connection with Salem made a call upon Mr. James Pearson
This call was declined. Another call was mads soon after
in connection with Unity, in favor Mr. G. R. McMillan, but
was also declined.
Mr. Pearson having been released from his charges in
Washington congregation was again called by the Grand
Cote congregation in connection with Unity in the spring of
1853. Having accepted the call he was installed on the 18th
of August following and continued to labor with success
until laid aside by disease which terminated in his death on
the 28th of March, 1856.
In the spring of 1857 a call was made upon Mr. Matthew
McBride, but it was not accepted.
The next effort to secure a pastor resulted in the choice
of Mr. Wm. S. Bratton on the 24th of October 1859. He
accepted and was ordained and installed over the congrega-
tion on the 15lh of Dec. following. He labored diligently,
even beyond his strength, publicly and from house to houte,
for nearly eleven years. The congregation increased to such
an extent tl- at it became necessary to enlarge the house of
worship.
In August 1870, along with most of the ministers of the
Western Presbytery, Mr. Bra:ton withdrew from the
Reformed and joined the United Presbyterian Church. About
one third of the congregation went with him, and he. contin-
ued to preach to them until his death Jan. lUh, 1873. The
congregation was again dependent on supplies.
In the fall of 1871, the old church was taken down and a
new frame building 40 x 60 erected on the same site. On
the 16th of April 1872 a call was made upon Mr. W. J. Smiley
to become their pastor. This call was never presented in-
asmuch as the candidate has already accepted a call from
the Bethel.
On the 22nd of July 1873 a unaminous call was made
upon Mr. Robert Hunter, to become then pastor. This call
was accepted and the pastor elect, after completing his course
in the Seminary began his labors in March following and
was ordained and installed on the I5th of May 1874. He
labored succesfully here for a period of seven years when on
account of the failing health of his wife he was compelled to
seek a change of climate. He oflered his resignation of his
charge which was accepted, the release going into effect on
the 15th of May 1881.
The session at its first meeting consisted of three members,
viz : James Wilson, James Robb, and A. R. McKelvey.
The first named was an elder in Bethel, and belonged to
that part of the congregation set off to form the new organ-
ization. David Munford also an elder in Bethel was chosen
an elder in Grand Cote Jan. 20th, 1852. Robert Mathews
one of the original members of Hill Prairie session was
chosen to that office here on the30ih of Oct., 1852. Sam'l
Douglas, James R. McKelvey and Wm. Munford were
added to the session June 20th, 18.59.
James W. McMillan, Robert James, and Wm. J. Mathews
were likewise added April 30th, 1863. Wm. W. Jamison
declined serving.
Session having been reduced by the deith of some of its
members and the removal of others from the congregation,
was increased April 4lh, 1873 by the installation of James
Kemps and Jno. B lyle, who had been ordained to the elder-
ship in the Unity congregation at the time of itsorgauization
a few years before, and the ordination of James Walker.
James H. Carlisle, Charles R. McKelvey and Matthew S.
McMillan were cho.sen at the same time but declined.
The last addition to the session was made Oct. 26th, 1876
when Jno. C. McKelvey and M. S. McMillan were ordained
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
249
and iostalled Elders. James S. Kell, formerly an elder in
Princeton congregation, chosen at this time, declined serving.
The members now are James Robb, Robert Mathews, Wm.
J. Mathews, James Kemps, J no. Boyle, James Walker, Jno.
C. McKelvey and Matthew S. McMillan.
On the I3th of September 1882, a call was made upon Mr.
James B. McCool, a licentiate of the Philadelphia Presbytery
to become pastor; which has since been declined.
In March 1868 a congregation consisting of thirty-seven
members was organized in Elkhorn Prairie Washington Cj.
it took the name Unity and was recognized as a branch of
Grand Cote congregation and enjoyed a share of the p:istors
labors for a time. In 1870 most of the members went into
the United Presbyterian Church and theorganizatibn became
the basis of of the Oakdale U. P. Congregation.
Abont six hundred and fifty members in all have been
connected with the Grand Cote congregation. The present
membership is about two hundred.
CHURCH HILL CONGREGATION.
This congregation was organized on the 17th of July, 18.")4,
by a committee of the Illinois Presbvteiy. It was originally
a part of the Bethel congregation Eden. Fifty-nine mem-
bers were received from that congregation, and enrolled as
members of the new organization.
Alaxander Moore, Sr., J. G. Miller and John Robinson,
were elect2d Ruling Elders, and Samuel Elliott and Wm.
Woodside, Deacons.
A church building had been erected some time previous
to the organization on what was familiarly called " ihe
mound" in Grand Cote pairie, the present site of the village
of Coulterville, named in honor of its founder James Coul-
ter, the oldest resident of the prairie.
The congregation was able from the first to support the
regular ordinances. Accordingly the moderation of a call
was granted them and on the tith of November 18.54, Rev.
James Milligan (who had resigned the charge of Bethel
congregation) was chosen pastor. This call was never pre-
sented, but Mr. Milligan was continued stated supply for a
considerable time.
On October 2(), 18.")7, a call was made on Rev. H. P.
McClurken. This call was presented and declined.
Another call made October 28, Ls.X, on Rev. A. C Todd,
was also declined. On the 14th of November, 18.")9, a call
was made on Rev. W. F. George, which was accepted, and
his installation took place on the .5th of March, I8(i0.
June 21, 18.58, Samuel Woodside and M. K. Mawhinney
were ordained elders, and Thompson Moore and Andrew
Thompson, deacons.
October 18, 1860, D. H. Coulter and Alaxander Moore
were added to the session ; also, Wm. Woodside and W. B
Whittaker on the 16th of October, 1863.
April 1.5th, 1864, Willsou Moore and Alexander Camp-
bell were made deacons.
Another election January 9, 1867, resulted in the choice
of VVill.son Moore and David Mearns, as elders, and on the
28th of February following, they were ordained and in-
stalled.
.32
At the same time, W. McKelvey, J. 0- Mawhinney and
Robt. Cathcart were invested with the office of deacon.
Rev. W. F. George, after laboring faithfully in the con-
gregation eleven years, was. at his own request, released
from his charge on the 3d of May, 1871.
In December following, a call was moderated in favor of
Mr. S J. Crowe, but it was not accepted.
On February 11, 1873, a call was made out in favor of
Rev. J. M. Faris, which was acceptetl, and on June 19, 1872
he was installed pastor by a commission of presbytery.
February 4, 1875, J. D. Elder, R. S. Edgar, J. M. Wylie,
R. K. Wiseley were added to the se.-sion.
On the 1.5th of March of the same year, R. R. McKelvey,
R. B. Elliott, W. J. Crawford and J J. Torrens were added
to the board of deacons. M. H. McKelvey and J. W. Pres-
ton were also invested with the office of dtacoii on the 14th
of November, 1881.
The records show the names of 312 persons enrolled as
members since the organization of the congregation. The
number now in full communion is 134.
The present house of worship was built in 1873. It is of
brick, 40x65 ft and costs ?5,000, and was first occupied on
the 1st of March, 1874.
The present officers of the congregation are Rev J. M.
Faris, pastor ; J. G. Miller, Wm. Woodside, Samuel Wood-
side, J. D. Elder, R S. Elgar and R. K. Wiseley, ruling
elders; and Samuel Elliott, R. B. Elliott, W. J. Crawford,
M. H. McKelvey and James Preston, deacons.
D. H. Coulter formerly an elder is now in the ministry.
While the influence of the Reformed Presbyterian Church
in this community is not as extensive as formerly, being
now shared by other churches, yet we may truly say that
the reputation which the community enjoys for intelligence
and morality, is in large measure due to the Reformed Pres-
byterian Church.
Her influence for liberty has been felt, and while her tes-
timony against slavery, lifted up at the close of the last
century, (since the year 1800 no slaveholder was retained
in her communion) has been vindicated, she still pleads for
the recognition of the rights of Christ as " Head over all
things to the church.
EVANGELICAL LUTHERAN CHURCH.
BY REV. FR. ERUMANN.
The Evangelical Lutheran Church is the church named
after the great Reformer, Dr. Martin Luther. She receives
the canonical books of the Old and New Testaments as the
infallible revealed Word of God, and adheres to " Book of
Concord," from the year 1580, as her Confession. The
"Book of Concord" consists, 1. Of the three CEcumenical
Creeds; 2 The Augsburg Confession from 1530; 3. The
Apology of the Augsburg Confession ; 4. The Schraalcaldian
Articles; 5. Luther's Smaller and Larger Catechisms; 6.
The Formula of Concord.
The Lutheran Church was transplanted to this country
mainly by German and Scandinavian immigrants, and dates
back as far as when New York was yet a Dutch colony,
250
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
The present* state of the Evangelioal Lutheran Church in
the United States is about as follows: 57 Synods; 3,300
Ministers; 5 900 Congregations; 741,000 Communicants.
She has under her care : 20 Theological Seminaries ; 23
Academies ; 16 Colleges ; 14 Female Seminaries ; 20 Orphan
Houses; 5 Hospitals; 1 Institution for the Deaf and Dumb.
She issues 78 church papers — 26 in the English, 28 in the
German, 6 in the Swedish, 14 in the Norwegian and 4 in
the Danish language.
The Lutheran Church in Randolph county, Illinois, has
at present ten German congregations.
The oldest of these is the Evangelical Lutheran Trinily
congregation in Horse Prairie, in the northwestern part of
the ( ounty. It dates back as far as 18 12, and was organized
by German immigrants from the principality of Schaumburg
Lip[>e and from the former kingdom of Hanover. The first
Germans who came to Horse Prairie, in the year 1838, were
the two brothers Charles and Ernest Schrieber, Henry
Mohrs and Henry Beier. For the next two years other new
settlers came in, and though they were small in number, yet
they organized themselves, in the year 1842, as the Evan-
gelical Lutheran Trinity congregation. The first divine
services were held in private houses. In 1844, Henry
Moehrs donated to the congregation one acre of land, to be
used partly for the site of a church and partly for a grave-
yard. In the same year the first church was built, a very
primitive log house, 25x18 feet. The whole cost of this
church was hardly mors than S50; but nevertheless they
were rejoiced to have a church of their own. The first pastor
who preached occasionally to this congregation was Rev.
Jordan ; the next one Rev. Gotha. In the fall of 1845 the
Rev. Martin Stephan accepted a call from the congregation ;
he died on the 26th day of February, 1846. Stephan was
the first pastor who resided in the midst of the congregation
—the log church was at the same time his dwelling house.
After Stephan, the Rev. A. Baltzer, from Waterloo, III.,
preached, for about one year and a half, occasionally to the
congregation, and in like manner his successor, the Rev. W-
Bmner. The Revs. Bjltzer and Binner were not Lutheran
pastors ; they both belonged to the so-called United Evan,
gelical Church, and they both tried to draw over the congre-
gation to their denomination; but though they did not
succeed, yet they were the cause of a division in the congre-
gation. In 1848 nine members withdrew from the Lutheran
congregation and organized an Evangelical one. This
Evangelical congregation was in existence until 1859, when
their members reunited with the Lutheran church and
turned over their property to this congregation. In 1848
the Rev. C. Strasen took charge of the Lutheran congrega-
tion, and remained with them for about two years. In the
meantime the congregation had increased in number, and
the log church became too small, and they began, in 1849,
to build the second church, a frame building, 40x28 feet.
In 185t> the Rev Brey accepted a call from the congrega-
tion. He was a man of great learning, but more adapted
for a professor's chair than for the pulpit. He resigned after
•Where the words "present," "to the present," "at the present time," are
used in this article, it always means to October, 1882.
six months. His successor from March, 1851, to March
1853, was the Rev. A. Brandt. In 1851 the new church
was completed, and was dedicated on the 3d day of August
'n the same year. On this occasion the Rev Birkmann,
from Monroe county, preached in German, and the Rev. M.
Eirich, from Chester, in English. The cost of the new
church was about SI, 000. After the new church was occu-
pied, the old log church was used as a parsonage. In May,
1853 the present pastor, the Rev. F. Erdmann, received and
accepted a call from the congregation, and took charge
thereof on the 25th day of September, 1853. At that time
the congregation numbered about 16 voting members, which
number was, on the 26th of December of the same year,
increased to 32. The number of communicants at this time
were about 85, and the number of scholars in the school was
32. At the present time the congregation counts more than
100 voting members and about 350 communicants, and in
the school* are more than 100 scholars. In 1856 a new
parsonage was built, at a cost of about 8700, and the old one,
the former log church, was converted into a school house.
In 1859- when the Evangelical congregation had reunited
with the Lutheran, their church waj moved to the premises
of the Lutheran congregation, and used for a school house
until the year 1869. In 1860 the old log church was taken
down. In 1859 the first pipe organ was purchased by the
congregation — it was a small instrument with but three
stops — at a cost of S315. About two years later, this organ
was exchanged for a larger one, with eight stops. Up to the
year 1866, the pastor of the congregation had at the same
time to teach the school, but at that time the number of
scholars had become so large that it became necessary to
employ a teacher. The first teacher was B. Cunz ; he took
charge of the school in March, 1866, and was discharged in
September of the same year. The present teacher, C. Ste-
dingk, has had charge of the school since October, 1866. By
natural growth and by immigration, the congregation had
become so large that their second church proved to be too
small ; so it resolved to build a larger one. On the 13th day
of May, 1868, the corner-stone of the new church was laid.
Preaclung was had on different occasions by the Rev. J. C.
Noll, from near Ruma, and Rev Fr. Herold, from Ma'-
coutah, and on the 3d day of December, 1868, the new
church was dedicated. The preaching on this occasion was
by the Revs. Eisenbach, Tegtmeyer and Noll. The new
church is a brick building, 75x .3 feet, with a steeple of
about 120 feet high, and two good sized metal bells in the
belfry. The cost of the new church was about S14,200.
After the new church was occupied, the old one was used for
a school house, and received an addition of a room for cate-
chetical instruction. In 1875 a new frame parsonage was
built, at a cost of about S2,200. It is resolved to build, next
spring, a dwelling house for the teacher, which will cost at
least $1,500. The congregation owns at present seven acres
of land, with all the buildings thereon, whose value is at
least $18,000.
The Evangelical St. John's congregation in Red Bud.
In the year 1854, the Rev. Francis Erdmann commenced
• The word "school" in this article always means "Parochial school."
HISIORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
251
preaching every alternate Sunday in Red Bud. At that
time neither a school house nor other building suitable for
preaching was to be found in the limits of the town. The
first divine services were held in a log school house, about
one mile west of the town on the Waterloo road. Here, in
1855, the Evangelical Lutheran St. John's congregation was
organized with about ten members. Among them were
William Giiebert, William Hilgeraaier, William Kloepper,
Christian Busse, H. Kooh, E^q , all from the northern part
of Germany. About the same time the congregation was
organized, a new public school house was built in Red Bud
Divine services were held therein. In 18.56 Mr. Samuel
Crozier donated one acre of land to the congregation for the
site of a church, and the congregation bought two more
acres of him, partly to be used as a graveyard, and com-
meoced in the same year the building of a church, which
was completed and dedicated in the spring of 1857. On
the occasion the Revs. Boetiicher and Eppens preached
German aud the Rev. D. Swaney in English. The new
church was a brick building, and cost about 81 500 In
February, 1859, the Rev. Francis Erdmann resigned this
charge, and the congregation extended a call to the present
pastor, the Rev. Fr. Schaller, who was installed on the
fourth day of December, 1859. By that time the congre-
gation numbered 26 voting members. At present it counts
87 voting members, and about 340 comniunicanls. In 1864
a new parsonage was built for about Sl,800. The first
church had become too small, and the corner stone of a new
one was laid on the 23J day of June, 1867, the Revs. M.
Stephan and C. S. Kleppisch officiating. In the spring of
1868 it was completed, and was dedicated on the 19th day of
April of the same year. The Revs. Professors A. C'raemer
and G. Schaller, both from St Louis, Mo., preached dedication
sermons- It is a brick building, erected at a cost of about
812,000. The old church was converted into a school house.
The pastor of the congregation taught the church school until
the year 1864. when the first teacher, A. Burgdorf, was em-
ployed. The present teacher, William Holtmann, has had
charge of the school since fall, 1875. The school numbers 90
scholars. In 1876 a new dwelling-house for the teacher was
built for about 8900, and in 1880 the old church taken down,
and on its foundation a two-stcry biick school-house
erected for about 81500. The property of the congrega-
tion at the present time is of a value of about 816,000.
The Evangelicil Lutheran St. John's congregation
near Ruraa. At the time when the Rev. C. Strasen, was
pastor of the Trinity congregation in Horse Prairie, he
preached at the same time to the people, who had settled
between Horse Creek aud Camp Creek, and in the year
1848 the St. John's congregation was organized with eleven
members, all from the former kingdom of Hanover, Ger-
many. Among the first members were H. Wegner, C.
Liefer, H. Knoke, D. Kueker, etc. In the same year, one
acre of land was bought by the congregation, partly for the
site of church, and partly for graveyard, and a log church
was erected. In 1858 the congregation bought five acres of
land for 850 of Mr. Clark, situated more centrally, about
one mile and a half southwest of their first church. The
first building erected on this new premises was a log parson-
age in 1860. In 1866 the building of a new church was
commenced and finished, and dedicated in March, 1837.
The Revs. Knoll, Staiger and Erdmann preached on the
occasion. The new church is a brick building, and its costs
were about 83,500. In 1868 a log school house was built,
and in 1880 a new frame parsonage for about 81,100. The
congregation numbers at present 45 voting members, and
about 150 communicants. The school numbers 40 scholars
and is taught by the pastor. The first pastor of the con-
gregation was the Rev. C. Strasen, who resigned in 1849.
His successors, until the year 1858, were the Revs. G. Weit-
brecht and H. A. Eppens. From 1859 to the beginning of
1860 the Rev. Frounn had charge of the congregation, and
was the first pastor residing within the bounds of the con-
gregation. During the summer of 1860 the Rev. I. C. Knoll
took charge of the congregation and remained with them until
the second day of November, 1878, when he died. Then the
congregation exiended a call to the present pastor, Rev. E.
Schrader. who was installed in February, 1879. The con-
gregation possesses a property worth more than $5,000.
The Evangelical Lutheran congregation in Evaiisville
is of a more recent date ; it was organized by the Rev. J. C.
Xoll, owns a brick church 54x34 feet. Its property is worth
p.bout 83 000. In 1881 the Rev. J. G. Gruber took charge
of the congregation, and resigned in 1882. At present
the Rev. C. Schrader preaches for the congregation, and
Mr. Mohr, a theological student is assistant, and teaches
at the same time school. With iliis congregation a preach-
ing place in Preston is connected.
The Evangelical St John's congregation in Chester
was organized on the 22d day of April, 1849, by the Rev.
S. Butterniann, with 14 members, all from the northern part
of Germany. Among the first members were F. A. All-
meyer, F. W. Allmeyer, H. Bode, H. Goehr, F. Brinkmann,
etc. In the same year the first church, a frame building,
was erected for about 8800. In 1854 a brick parsonage was
built. In 1857 the church was enlarged by an addition of
twenty feet, and a basement for school. In 1865 a new
brick school hou->e was erected. By continual growth the
congregation became too large for its house of worship, and
the corner-stone of the new church edifice was laid on the
13th day of October, 1878. In the fall, 1880, the new
church was completed, aud was dedicated on the 14th day
of November in the same year. It is a brick structure, and
one of the finest church edifices in the southern part of Illin-
ois, and an ornament to the city of Chester. The congre-
gation numbers at present 90 voting members and about 360
communicants, and possesses property worth about 815,000.
The first pastor of the congregation was the Rev. S. Butter-
mann. His successor was the Rev. M. Eirich, who had
charge of the congregation from the year 1849 to the year
1866, when he resigned. Rev. Eirich's successor from 1866
to 1875 was Rev. M. Stephan. After Stephan had resigned
the congregation extended a call to the present pastor, the
Rev. J. A. F. W. Mueller, who was installed December 5,
1875. Prior to 1856, the pastor taught the church school,
but in that year a teacher was employed. Nine teachers
252
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
have bad charge of this school for a louger or shorter time
since its organization. The present teachers are H. Loh-
meyer, (since 1877) for the second class, and G. Allmeyer.
(since 187S) for the first. The number of scholars in both
classes are about 120.
The Evangelical Lutheran St. Peter's congregation,
north of Randolph (Bremen P. O.) is the oldest in the
southern i)art of the county. It was organized before 1845
by Germans, mainly from the former Kingdom of Hanover,
Germany. Among its first members were Messrs Knop,
Heitmann, Schierenbeck and Goehrs, etc. Some of them
lived in Chester, where there was no Lutheran church at
that time. Shortly after the organizatijn, the congregation
built their first church, a small log building. The property
then owned by the congregation was worth about §150. In
1857 a log house was erected to be used partly for a parson-
age and partly for a school room. In 1862 a log building
school was raised In 1875 the parsonage was renovated
and enlarged at a cost of about S300. In 1863 the present
brick church edifice was built for about |2,500. The pro-
perty owned by the congregation at the present time is worth
at least Sl.OOO. Though this congregation is one of the
oldest, yet it is at the present time one of the smallest in the
county, numbering 19 voting members and 68 communi-
cants. It was, after its organization, for a number of yiars
without a pastor, yet they assembled every Sunday for divine
service. Mr. Dunsing, a German school teacher, read a ser
mon, taught school for about four months, including the
winter season. In the years 1856 and 1857 the Rev. C
Tegtmeyer preached for the congregation. His successor to
the year 1862 was the Rev. J. Dunsing. From August,
1862, to November, 1873, the Rev I- H. Doermann had
charge thereof. From November, 1873, to October, 1878,
the Rev. F. W. Pennekamp, and since January, 1879, the
present pastor, the Rev. G. I. Mueller. From 1863 to 1875
H. Lohmeyer was teacher of the school, since that time the
p-istor is also the teacher.
The Evangelical Lutheran St. John's Congregation,
northeast of Randolph (Bremen P. O.). Some of the immi-
grants from the Northern part of Germany, who had settled
in this part of the county, bought as eaily as the year 1848,
ten acres of land, partly for the site of a church, partly for
a graveyard and other purposes, and erected in the same
year a small frame church thereon. The church property
at that time was worth about $600.
Though the Revs. Buttermann and Eirich from Chester had,
from time to li me, preached to this people, the congregation w.as
not properly organized before the year 1853, when Rev. Charles
Tegtmeyer, who is the present minister, became pastor.
About 16 members took part at the organization. At
present the congregation counts 70 voting members and
235 communicants, and the school, which is taught by the
pastor, numbers about 90 scholars. In 1857, a parsonage
was built, and, in 1878, a schoolhouse, and at the same time
one acre and a-half more land was bought. During the
summer, 1882, a new brick church edifice was erected. The
property owned, at the present time, by the congregation
has a value of about fifteen thousand dollars. With this
congregation a preaching place is connected, in the so-called
Sternberg settlement, which owns a little church worth about
1500, and numbers about 38 communicants.
The Evangelical Lutheran St. Paul Congregation at
Wine Hill. Though the Rev. C. Tegtmeyer had, since
1853, preached to the people in the yicinity of what is now
called Wine Hill, the proper organization of St. Paul's con-
gregation was not eflvcted until the 28th of November, in
the year 1860, by the Rev. M. Eirich, from Chester. 18
members participated in the organization, all from the for-
mer Kingdom of Hanover, Germany. The first Deacons,
elected on the day of organization, were Henry Ebers and
Henry Brueggemann. After ten acres of land were bought
by the congregation the first church was built thereon, in
the year 1860. It is a frame building, which cost about
$1,400. This church is yet in use. A new brick church
edifice to cost not less than 810,000 is in prospect for 1883.
In 1861 a small parsonage, and in 1864 a small schoolhouse,
were erected. In 1874, a new frame parsonage was built at
a cost of 31,600. In 1877 a new frame schoolhouse, cost
about $800. lu 1880 the old parsonage was rebuilt and
enlarged, and is now worth about $800. It is occupied by
the teacher of the congregation. The congregation numbers
60 voting members and 275 communicants, and owns about
$5,000 worth of property. • The first pastor who served this
congregation, after its organization, was the Rev. M. E;rich,
who preached only occasionally. His successor, from July
1861 to November 1863, was the Rev. H. Evers. From
December, 1863, to May, 1873, the Rev. J. H Doermann
was in charge, but did not reside within the congregation,
but at Randolph, where he was at the same time pastor of
the St. Peter's congregation. After the Rev. Doermann had
resigned, the present pastor, the Rev. C F. Liebe, accepted
the charge, in November, 1873. Six teachers have been
connected with the school since its organization. The pres-
ent teacher, Mr. Aug. Wilde has had charge of the school
since, February 18711. It numbers at present time about
70 scholars.
The Evangjlical Lutheran St. Peter's Congregation
at Wine Hill, was formerly connectedwith the St. John's
Congregation of Randolph, and the Rev. C. Tegtmeyer was.
from 1853 to 1861, pastor of both congregations. In 1861
the St. Peter's congregation separated from St. John's, and
extended a call to the Rev. J. F. Hornberger, which was
accepted, and he was pastor of the congregation until 1876,
when he resigned. The present pastor, the Rev. F. Weiss-
gerber, has had charge of the congregation since 1878. This
congregation numbers about 30 voting members and about
85 communicants ; it possesses a small frame church which
was built in I860, a parsonage and a schoolhouse, besides
several acres of real estate. Its property at present is worth
about Sl,500. The school connected with the congregation
is taught by the pastor.
The Evangelical Lutheran St. Marous' Congregation,
in Steelesville was organized on the 15th day of February,
1874, though the Rev. C. Tegtmeyer, from Randolph,
preached for them before they were properly organized.
Eight members, all from the northern part of Germany par-
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
253
ticipated in the organization, among whom wrre A. Bege-
mann and F. Maasberg. At the present time the congre-
gation numbers 18 voting members and fio rommunicants.
It owns a frame church, which was built in 1875, for about
$1,550, and was dedicated on the "iliih day of December, in
the same year; also a paisonage and a schoolhouse, the
whole property worlh at least two thousand dollars. After
the Rev. C. Tfgtmeyer had resigned, the Rtv.C. F. Liebe had
charge of the congrtgation from the ■24(h of May, 1874, to
1879. Aftf r the Rev. Litbe had rcs-igntd, the Rev. G. Erd-
mann filled llie vacancy for several months. The present
pastor, the Rev. E. G. Franck, was installed the 2l2nd day
of May, 1879. Pie is the first jastor residing with the
congregation. The school numbers about 20 scholars, and
is taught by the pastor.
So the Lutheran Church has, up to the ])resent time, in
Randolph county ten congregations, ten church buildings,
nine school houses, about two thousand communicants, and
marly seven hundred scholars between the ages of seven and
fourteen years under her training. Her church property has
a value of over eighty-five thousand dollars.
MOXKOE COINTY
is at the present time represented by three Evangelical La-
the run Congregations — all German.
The Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of the Holy
Cross, southeast of Waterloo and northwest of Burksville
(Wartburg P. O.), was organized in 1841 by the Rev. G. A.
iSchieferdecker, with nine members, among them Jacob
Horn, J. C. Just, Sam. Koch, from the southern part of
Germany ; and H. Johanning, from the northern part. Di-
vine service had, for the first year, to be held in private
houses. In 1M44, Mr. J. Horn donated to the congregation
four acres of laud, situated about two miles south of Water-
loo ; and in the same year a small frame church, at a cos,
of about S300, was erected thereon. This church was dedi-
cated on the 10th day of November, 1844. The Rev. Prof
D. Walther, from St. Louis, Mo , preached the dedication
sermon. On the 4th of Dec. 184(), the church was consumed
by fire. Too poor to rebuild, the congregation again held
its services in private houses. In the meantime it was
resolved to build in a more central and more convenient
locality. In 1848, Mr. J. C. Just granted the congregation,
for this purpose, one acre and a-half of land, about two miles
south of the former site, and in the same year they erected
their second church, which was dedicattd on the 27th day of
August, 1848. The Revs. C. Strasen and R. Lange preached
on the occasion. This second church became too small, and
in 18(53, a stone building, 48.\32 feet, was erected and dcdi.
cated. The Rev. E A. Brauer preached the dedication ser-
nion. This church erected, in 1874, a steeple 75 feet high.
Besides the church, the congregation owns a parsonage, a
school house, and a dwelling house for the teacher,— all brick
buildings. The whole property of the congregation, at the
present time, is worth at least 85,000. It numbers at present
43 voting members and 152 communicants. The pastors
who have served this congregation are : Rev. G. A. Schie.
ferdecker, from 1841 to 1849; Rev. C. H G. Schliepsick,
from 1849 to 1850 ; Rev. J. G. Birkmann from the 26th of
September, 1850, to his death, on the 28th December, 1865 ;
Rev. C S Kleppisch, from the 24th of November, 1867, to
August, 1871. The present pastor, Rev. J. Nachtigall, was
installed on September 17th, 1871. Up to the year 1858 the
pastors taught the school, but at that time a teacher was
employed. The first teacher was Mr. L. Deftuer. The other
teachers have been — Mr. F. R Bi.\, Mr. H. Johanning and
Mr. H. Keller. Since October 1881, Mr. H. Johanning has
again been teacher of the school. It counts 55 scholars.
The Evangelical Lutheran Congregation of the Holy
Cross, near Glasgow City (Renault P. O ) This congrega-
tion was formerly connected with that of the Holy Cross
(Wartburg P. O.). It was organized about the year 18.53
by the Rev. J. G. Birkmann, and known by the name :
"Evangelical Lutheran Immanuels Congregation," and its
first church stood about three miles south of Burksville.
Rev. Mr. Birkmann served the congregation until his death
in 1865. Then the Rev. C. S. Kleppisch took charge thereof,
and after him the Rev. J. Nachtigall.
The first church haviug become well worn, and most of
the members of the congregation living in the vicinity of
Glasgow City, about five acres of land were purchased near
that i)lace in 1809 as the site of a new church. In the same
year the congregation reorganized itself dropped its former,
and adoj)ted its pre.seutname: "Evangelical Lutheran Con-
gregation of the Holy Cro.ss." In 1880 a new church was
erected on the lately purchased premises a frame building
28x40 feet, with a small steeple, was dedicated in the same
year. The Rev. F. Erdmann preached in the German and
the Rev. G. J. Goehringer in the English language, on the
occasion. The following year a new frame par.sonage was
built. In 1880 the congregation extended a call to the
present pastor, the Rev. H Schaefer, who was installed on
the 7th day of November, 1880. The congregation numbers
at present 20 voting members, and 75 communicants. Its
church property is worthabout 12,501). The school numberts
20 scholars, and is taught by the pastor.
The Evangelical Lutheran St Paul's congregation in
Columbia. This congregation, which numbers at present
24 voting members and about SO communicants, was or-
ganized in the year 1849, by Rev. G A. Scliieferdecker.
Of the mend)ers who took part in the organization only two,
Jacob Beck and Henry Schmidt, Sen., are yet living. This
congregation owns a brick church, which was built in 1855
and enlarged in 1870; a school-house built in 1870, and a
two-acre graveyard. The whole property has a value of
about two thousand dollars. The first pastor of the con-
gregation was Rev. G. A. Schieferdecker ; his successor
Rev. Rennicke. From the year 1855 up to the present
time the Rev. F. W. Holls, from Millstadt, St. Clair County
Illinois, has served the congregation. As the pastor of the
congregation does not reside in their midst, it became neces.
sary to employ a teacher fur the school. This was done as
early as 1850. The first teacher was Mr. Held, who died soon !
his follower, Mr. Ben. Giinther, who took charge of the
school in 185C, died also. The other teachers who had charge
of the school successively were, O. Gerstenbach, F. Ber-
254
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
gesser, and S. Merz. The last naraed died in 1881, so
that at the present time the congregation is without a
teacher. The school numbers about seventy scholars.
THE CATHOLIC CHURCH.
The history of the Mother Church of Randolph county is
so closely interwoven with its secular history that an at-
tempt to separate the two seems, at once, a task, both im-
practicable as well as impossible, especially so, as far as the
early part of the history is concerned. The parish records
of Kaskaskia and Prairie du Rocher comprise volumes of
themselves and have, for years past, been the basis of re-
searches of the historian. Much credit is due to the Histori-
cal Society of Chicago, who, thought Mr. Edward G. Mason,
rearranged and rebound those old records, and whose re-
searches are embodied iu papers read before that society on
December 16th, 1879, and June 16th, 1880, which papers
have been freely consulted in these pages. While the early
records of the other parishes are greatly deficient, owing to
the absence of resident pastors during the first few years of
their organization, still, much valuable iniformation has
been obtained from early settlers, yet living. Taking all
these facts into consideration it is evident that we must con-
fine ourselves to a brief sketch of each parish, referring the
reader, who desires deeper researches, to special works on
this subject, a list of which is appended : Father Meret'"
Letters; Shea's History of Catholic Missions; Mason's
Kaskaskia and its Parish Records ; Mason's Fort Chartres;
Montague's History of Randolph county ; Reynolds' Pio-
neer History of Illinois, and to the original records them-
selves, most of which are among the archieves of the diocese
of Alton, while others, are still in the possession of the par-
ishes to which they belong.
Kaskaiikia. — The earliest parish record of this congre-
gation is the " Reyidrum pro anno 1696 " also a copy of the
original mission records, entitled : ' Extrait des Registries
de Bapteme de la Mission des Illinois sons le Hire de V Imma-
culee Conception de la S V.
" From Marest's letters we know that some Frenchmen
intermarried with the Indians of this village and dwelt there,
BO that the inhabitants of Kaskaskia were a mixed popula-
tion of whites and Indians, under the sway of the priests of
the Order of Jesus. Within the first twenty years from its
foundation, Kaskaskia was a mission, simply, then a trading
station, and soon a military post; features enough to justify
the worthy priests to establish a parish to succeed their be-
loved mission. It is curious to notice the difficulty the good
fathers seemed to have found in writing the names of Indian
women who appeared at these baptisms, as mothers and
godmothers of the infants, as shown by their use of Greek
characters for this purpose. We can imagine them stand-
ing at the front listening to the many syllabled titles of pa-
rents and sponsors, smoothly uttered in the Illinois tongue,
and vainly trying to reproduce them, until in despair they
have recourse to their classical learning for symbols or
something akin to the new sounds.
Gabriel Marest appears as parish priest about that time,
(1700.) Previous to him, 1696 to 1700, we meet with the
names of Fathers James Gravier and Julian Bineteau. la
lV07, first appears the name of Father P. J. Mermet, who
came to Kaskaskia, from the great village of the Peorias.
From the next baptismal records, commenced June 18th,
1719, it appears that the old mission chapel was still in use,
hut that a parish had been duly formed, and the first entry
is a baptism performed by Father Le Bonllenger, the chap-
lain of the French troops, giving evidence of the presence
of soldiers there at that period. This priest was a learned
man. He prepared a catechism in the Illinois tongue.
After him we find the pastorate in charge of military chap-
lains."
We now find Kaskaskia no longer in the pastoral care
of a missionary, or military chaplain, but having a regular
parish priest. Father Nicholas Ignatius de Beaubois, who
describes himself as "Cure de cttte Paroisse ", signalizes his
accession by opening a.iiev/"Registre des Baptenies faits dans
Veglise Parroissiale de la Conception de Ne Dame des Cascas-
k-ias," which he commenced July 9Lh, 1720. And this, per-
haps, indicates the time of the substitution of a parish church
for the earlier mission chapel. The burial register from
January 4th, 1721, to 1727, relates many sad scenes, which
the infant settlement had sometimes to witness, i. e. that
of the many Indian massacres, to which they were subjected.
This register of deaths was kept by Father Beaubois. From
this register we further learn that Fathers Marest and Mer-
met, died at Kaskaskia, and found their last resting places
under the church, to which their remains were transposed
from the old chapel, on Dec. 18th, 1727.
From this time to 1729, no records exist, save a marriage
register, from 1724 to 1729, the books being probably de-
stroyed. The next marriage record, a book of 220 pages,
contains the marriages at Kaskaskia, from 1741 to 1835. It
begins with R. Tartarin as Cure. In Sept. 1746, Father P.
J. Watrin becomes Cure. His successor was Father An-
bert, in 17.59. Father Menrin took charge of the parish, in
1764. He describes the parish as that of the Immaculate
Conception of the holy virgin, village of Kaskaskia, county
the Illinois, Province of Louisiana, Diocese of Quebec."
'•The sturdy priest, Pierre Gibault, assumes the functions
of Cure des Kaskaskia.s et Vicaire General des Illinois el la-
marois in ^768, and his bold signature, with its unique
flourish, greets us through these records for fifteen years or
more.
We should know that the man with such chirography,
would have been just the one to render the efficient assist-
ance given to George Rogers Clark, and must have belonged
to the church militant. Reluctantly we see the last of the
handwriting of this friend of the new republic, which is
followed in 1785, by that of De Saint Pierre as Cure, and
that of De la Valiniece, as Vicar-General ; and in their
time English names appear among the laymen, noted in the
records ; e. g. McNabb, Edgar, Morrison, etc. New French
names also appear, among them the Menards.
In 1793, Gabriel Richard takes up the record as parish
priest. Later he was stationed at Detroit, and took a lead-
ing part in the early history of Michigan, representing that
territory in Congress, and was the only catholic priest who
was ever a member of that body."
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS,
255
Next we meet (1806) the name of Father Donatien Olli-
vier, noted for his great piety, who was succeeded by Father
Francois Xavier Dahmen. Up to 1844, the time of the
great tlood, nothing of importance may be gleaned from the
records, save the enlargement of the old church, the evacu-
ation of the convent by the sisters, during the flood. Out
of the materials from the ruins of the convent, a priest's
house had been erected. In the steeple of the church hangs
the old bell, brought here from France, in 1742, which h.as,
with measured tones, tolled three generations to their graves.
Rev. Becker, D.D., is at present parish priest of the "Island
of Kaskaskia." The long feared junction of the Mississippi
and Kaskaskia rivers, has been made north of the town, and
the next tlood will spare nothing of the ancient village, save
its old parish records."
Prairie du Rocher. — The first church building at this
place was erected in 1734 It was constructed in the French
style of architecture, by driving cedar posts in the ground
and filling the space between with stone and mortar. This
building stood about 130 years. The early church history
of Prairie du Rocher affords but little of importance
Mason tells us that the old records of St. Anne of New
Chartres were transferred to this place, and in the burial
register we find an account of the removal of the bodies of
Fathers Gagnon and Collet, priests of .St. Anne of New
Chartres, from the ruined cemetery near that church on the
point of the river, and their burial in the chapel of St.
Joseph, at Prairie du Rocher.
In 1860 the erection of a commodious brick church was
commenced, which has since been again enlarged by the
addition of a sanctuary and a steeple. The congregation
numbers 2.50 families, mostly of French descent. Rev. C.
Krewet is at present parish priest.
St. Patrick's Church, near Runia, Randolph county
(O'Hara Settlement). This thrifty congregation dates its
origin back to the year 1820. It was the first English-
speaking Catholic congregation organized in the county, and
among the first of the slate. During the years 1820-1, Rev.
Demonlin, who resided at Kaskaskia, came to this vicinity
on horseback and said mass at the house of Henry O'Hara
about once a month. This priest, as well as his two succes-
sors, might well be termed ' itinerant priests," since they
attended several congregations and were continually travel-
ling from one settlement to another. Father Brassac
succeeded Father Demonlin, but little is known of him.
R^v. Dr. Coeline, an Italian, was his successor. He was
equally famous as a physician and priest. When Henry
O'Hara died- (June 2(Jth, 1826), he bequeathed 100 acres of
fine land, in the N. W. quarter of section .5, township 5-8,
for church purposes, and his oldest son, James, as his
executor, deeded the same tract to the church, after the
congregation had erected thereon a log church (1827). This
primitive house of worship was 30 feet long, 20 feet wide,
and 14 feet high. On the N. VV. en<l was a log cabin which
served as a -vestry. The site was 50 feet west of the present
church building. The parish records date from January
13th, 1831, at which time a French priest, Rev. Vital
Paillosson, was pastor. He was succeeded by Father Vital
Van Cloastere, who remained seven years (1832-39).
On May 4th, 1831, Bishop Rosati of St Louis, to whose
diocese Southern Illinois then belonged, visited this congre-
gation for the purpose of administering confirmation. The
second Episcopal visit by the same prelate took place May
15th, 18.'!4. The parish records also give an account of
Bishop Rosatis administering confirmation at the house of
Thomas James, near Harrisonville, Monroe county, on June
13th, 1836. Rev. John Kenny came to the pastorate Feb.
11th, 1839. He was succeeded by Rev. Patrick MeCabe,
Nov. 24th, 1842. Rev. James A. Kane and Rev. Conway
attended here from 1850 to 1854, when Rev John W.
Gifford was called to the pastorate. He was a native of
Scotland and a convert to the Catholic fdith. His memory
as a famous orator is still cherished among the older mem-
bers of the congregation. During his pastorate the new
church was completed and he said the first mass in it. The
corner-stone of the new church had been laid by Bishop
Vandville, of Chicago, in the spring of 1849. Father Gif-
ford remained here till 1859. He died shortly after ind his
remains are interred in the Tipton Catholic cemetery (Mon-
roe county). Rev. Francis Recouvreur was the next pastor
(1859-1867). He built a parsonage and commenced the
erection of a large building to be used as an academy for
young ladies. The plan was afterwards changed, and after
the completion of the building by Rev. A. Hinzelin, it was
opened as a school for boys. Rev. Hinzelin came here in
1867, and after two years of successful labor among his
parishioners, he died. His remains are interred near the
front door of the church. He was a man of superior talents.
His conversational poweis were great, and he especially
excelled in music. He was born at Dienze, France, May
16, 1842, and was ordained by Bishop Junker, of Alton, on
Aug. 1(), 1866. After being in America six months he had
so far mastered the English language that he could deliver a
short address in that vernacular. The date of his death was
Sept. 21, 1869. Of him may well be said : '' Consuvimatua
prttvi complevit tempora mulla." The history of the " Col-
lege" forming a distinct part of this congregation, the writer
thought it best to embody it in the history of the '' Convent,"
to which the reader is referrd. Father Hinzelin was suc-
ceeded by Rev. John F. Mohr ; he by Rev A. Vogt, both
of whom remained but a short time. Rev. Lawrence Hoey,
an excellent speaker as well as a fine scholar, was parish
priest from 1870 to 1874, when the present pastor, Rev.
Anthony Vogt, took charge. During his administration, a
fine bell, weighing 2,700 pounds, was purchased, and a
parish school erected, which numbers 50 pupils. The con-
gregation now numbers 9.3 families, consisting of about
500 souls.
Convent of the Si.'iters of the Precious Blond near St. Pat-
rick's church (O'Hara Settlement.) — During the year 1866,
at the agitation of Rt. Rev. Bishop H. D. Junker, first
bishop of Alton, St. Patrick's congregation commenced the
erection of a spacious two-story lirick building, to be used as
an academy for young ladies. The bricks were made on the
grounds, and the work carried on under the supervision of
256
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
the parish priest, Rev. F. Recovreur, and a committee con-
sisting of Edm. Faherty, Sr., J. D Simpson and John Ros-
cow. The building was completed in 18t'i7 by Rev. A.
Hiuzeliu, and the plan changed to an academy for boys.
The total cost was $17,000. The congregation set aside 25
acres of land for college purposes. The school was opened
with Rev. Hinzelin as its first president. He wUs succeeded
by Revs. Mohr, Vogt and Hoey, who were all anxious to
make the school a success, but for many reasons, the main
one of which was undoubtedly its location, the school proved
to be a financial failure. Upon the accession of Bishop
Baltes to the Episcopal see, this prelate bought the college
from the congregation for $5,000. He erected an addition
to it and converted into a classical and theological seminary-
While under these auspices the college was presided over by
Rev. Hennemann, O. S. B., Rev. William Cluse, Rev. J.
Meckel and Rev. Augustus Brumleve as presidents, and
independent of St. Patrick's congregation. Notwithstanding
the energy and zeal of the president and professors, the school
could not be made a success and was finally (^1875) abandoned.
Bishop Baltes then sold the building and grounds to the
Sisters of the Precious Blood for $12,000. These sisters had
come as exiles from Kurtweil, Baden, in 18G8, and located
at Belle Prairie, now Piopolis, Hamilton Co , 111. In 1870
their number had swelled to about 60, when half of them
went to St. Louis, and became attached to that diocese.
The remaining half, which remained in the diocese of Alton,
intended to locate at Edwardsville and there erect their
mother house. Plans for the same had already been pre-
pared when Bishop Baltes offered them the ''College near
Runia," which they bought and at once occupied. There
are now 42 members of the order at the convent. The object
of the order is to prepare and furnish teachers for the Cath-
olic parish schools, and it is here, at their mother house,
where their candidates are prepared for their responsible
duties. The order is under the supervision of the General
Superioress at Rome, Carolina Signoretti. The Superioress
of the Convent is Clementine Herr. The parish schools of
Edwardsville, Chester, Evansville, Ruma, St. Rose, Madon-
naville, Altamont, Shawueetown, Piopolis and Mt. Carmel
are supplied with teachers from this convent. Rev. John
Menhaus is chaplain of the convent. The chapel of the
institution is indeed very beautiful and tasty, and is a fit
place of worship for the devout sisters and their pupils.
Evansville, Randolph county, Illinok. On the 7th
day of April, I860, 38 familie.s, most of whom were poor,
organized a Catholic congregation, with Michael Berthold,
Nicholas Gross, Paul Pautler, Martin Oberle and John
Schulein as trustees. After the organization was perfected
the first mass was said in August, I860, at the house of
Michael Berthold and later divine service was held at the
residence of Herman Sliefvater. At that time clergymen
from Chester and Ruma attended to the spiritual needs of
this congregation. A frame church 30x40 feet was soon
after erected about 150 yaids east of the present church
site, which grounds are now used as a cemetery of the con-
gregation. On June 14, 1866, this church, which had been
dedicated to the honor of St. Joseph, was burned to the
ground, the work of an incendiary. It was, indeed, a heavy
loss to the yet struggling little flock of Catholics. They,
however, at once laid plans for the erection of a new brick
building, and in May, 1867, the Vicar General of the
diocese. Very Rev. P. T. Baltes, laid the ciruer-stone of
their new church edifice. Mr. John Wehrheim, a non-
Catholic, had donated two acres of land in the suburbs of
Evansville, and Mrs. Mary Fsaman also presented the con-
gregation with one acre adjoining the above tract. The work
of building the new church progressed rapidly. It is a
handsomestruc!ure, 45x70 feet, and of the Romanic style of
architecture. Christmas of 1867 found the congregation
assembled in its new church for the first time, each member
feeling proud of the good work accomplished. Rev. Louis
Pommer was the officiating priest at this first service in the
new church.
On the second day of December, 1869, the church was
formally dedicated to the honor of St. Bouiface hy Rev.
John F. Mohr, delegated by Bishop Baltes. A parish school-
house was also built in 1S()7, and a parish school is main-
tained there since. Rev. John Menhaus, while pastor at
Red Bud, attended this congregation in 1871. After Bishop
Baltes took charge of the " College at Ruma" some of the
clergymen who served there as professors acted as pari-sh
priests. When the " college" was sold to the Sisters of the
Precious Blood the congregation was again blesssd with a
resident priest, Rev. Albinus Breinlinger, who has been
pastor since August 30, 1878. During his pastorate the
congregation has built a fine parsonage and otherwise
improved the church property. The erection of a large
school building is at present contemplated. The, congrega-
tion now numbers 70 families, or about 400 souls, and the
total value of the church property is about $15,000. The
members are mostly Germans. The history of the congre-
gation is a worthy example of energy, liberality and devo-
tion to the church
Rnl Bud.— On the 2Gth day of November, 1858, a few
Catholic families residing in the vicinity of Red Bud, met
organized, and determined to build a church. Rt;. Rev.
Bishop Junker said mass for them at the house of Mr. Hoefele.
A handsome subscription having been raised, the congrega-
tion soon found itself the happy possessor of a handsome
church. The first service in the new church was held on
Palm Sunday, 18-59, by Rev. Barlels, then stationed at
Freeburg. Rev. Blasinger and Rev. Kraemer remained
here a short timeas pistors. On the 28th day of September,
1862, the church was dedicated to the honor of St. John the
Baptist by Bishop Junker. Rev. John F. Mohr was the
parish priest from 1862-68. A house was purchased in
1862 to be used as a parsonage and school-house. Two fine
bells were consecrated by Bishop Junker on December 1st,
1866, and the following year the erection of a new school-
house begun. Rev. A. Rustige came as pastor in 1868, and
after a stay of a few months was succeeded by his prede-
cessor, Rev. Mohr. Rev. Berlage, of Prairie du Long, then
visited the congregation on alternate Sundays. In Novem-
ber, 1870, Rev. John Menhaus was called to the pastorate,
and remained about one year. Like its sister congregation,
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
257
Evansville, Red Bud was then till 1875, attended by priests
from the college, the last one of which was Rev. Augustine
Brumleve, who was in 1875 made resident priest, having
attended the c )Dgregation fjr two j'ears previous, while pre-
fect, and later president of the college. The benefit of a
resident priest soon began to show itself The old parsonage
was sold and a handsome brick house erected south of
the church in 1877. In 1882 the church has been frescoed
and the congregatiou is now in a flourishing condition. To
the congregation is attached a branch of the Catholic Knights
of America, styled : " St. Augustine Branch, No. 266,"
organized November 14th, 1882, the object of which is a
co-operative life insurance.
Chester. — In the year 1840, Father Perren, then parish
priest of Kaskaskia, occasionally visited Chester and at-
tended to the spiritual wants of the little flock of Catholics
residing there. In 18-')2 a church building was erected, and
Father Repies took charge of the church. He was suc-
ceeded by Revs. Kraemer, Chmelizek, Pommer, Claus and
others. At present Rev. H Hegemann is the parish priest
and the future prospects of the congregation are encouraging
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
From the best data obtainable, the first Presbyterian
minister to visit the Illinois country, was John Evans Fin-
ley, from Chester county, Pennsylvania. He landed at
Kaskaskia, in 1797, after having been borne by keel boat,
from the headwaters of the Ohio, hither.
He remained but a short time — too short to attempt an
organization. In 1814, two missionaries, Samuel J. Mills
and Daniel Smith, visited Kaskaskia, and reported a de-
plorable lack of co|)ies of the Bible, in that vicinity.
On the 27lh of May, 1821, a society was organized, with
nine members, under the care of Rev. Salmon Giddings.
The first members were : Mr. and INIrs. David J. Baker,
Mr. and Mrs. Guthrie, Mrs. Perniilia Burr, Mrs. Dr. Sy-
mington, Mrs. Robert Morrison, Mrs. Martha Heard, and
Mrs. Eliza Conn. Mrs, Permelia Burr, was elected and re-
gularly ordained and installed as elder of the church. Soon
after, Mrs. Burr's family moved some twenty miles up the
Kaskaskia river, on a farm. From here she often walked
to church, so great was her zeal in the cause. In 1830,
John Mann and James (,'lendeiiin were appointed elders.
John Mann maintained his relationship with the church —
continuing after the removal to Chester, until the time of
his death, which occurred in 1881. After the organization
of the church, there is no record of any preaching, until
1825. It is known however, that Mr. Giddings and others,
made them occasional visits. In November, 1825, Rev.
John M. Ellis came on from Mas.«achusetts, and located in
their midst. He was well received, and listened to with
attention. He remained here until April, 1828. During
his incumbency the " Kaskaskia Social Literary Association "
was organized, with Col. Thomas Mather as Librarian.
The next preacher to have charge of this congregation,
was Rev. John Matthews, who came in 1828, and remained
until 1834.
33
Services were held whenever place could be obtained, —
in private rooms, warehouses, school-rooms, and a few times
in the county house. In 1837, Rev. Joshua T. Tucker,
preached in Chester. Kaskaskia was abandoned, and
Chester became the place of meeting. On Oct. 0th, 1840,
the name was changed by the Presbytery, from Kaskaskia
to " First Presbyterian church of Chester." The elders at
this time were, John Mann, James Clendenin, and James
McLaughlin. Rev. Cyrus C. Riggs, was in charge of the
church, until 1845. He was succeeded by Rev. B. F. Spil-
man, who remained until 1849. Rev. John Kennedy, was
their minister from June 14th, 1850, until the time of his
death, July 21st, 1851. Rev. P. D. Young was with them
from March 1st, 1852, to March 31st, 1857. Under his
ministry, the afl^airs of the church moved on with great
order and system. Rev. B. H. Charles was his successor,
and remained until 1866, a period of nearly nine years.
Rev. Abram J. Clark, commenced here about September,
1867, was installed pastor, and served the church until
March, 1875. Rev. D. L, Gear, commenced January, 1876,
and remained until September, 1881, when the present
pastor. Rev. O. G. Morton, was installed.
The first place of meeting in Chester, was Scth Allen's
office. The next was a school house near the present house
of worship — a house common to all denominations.
The present and only church edifice ever owned by the
congregation is of stone, occupies a very commanding posi-
tion, and was built between 1845 and l.'<47, and cost about
SI 500.
Elder Amzi Andrews, in liis will, left a valuable legacy to
this church, amounting in all to perhaps .?20,000. It is
now in litigation.
Rev. John Millot Ellis, was born in New Hampshire.
His ancestors were of Welch origin. He graduated from
Dartmouth College, in 1822, and subsequently from the
Theological Seminary at Andover. He was a great friend
of education, and everywhere he went, worked in aid of
educational institutions.
Rev. John Mathews, was born in Beaver county, Penn'a.
A graduate of Jefl^erson College. The missionary spirit
moved him to work in the west, which he did with marked
success. He lived to the good old age of 84 years, and is
buried near Georgetown, where he died, May 12th, 1861.
Rev. Joshua T. Tucker, a native of Massachusetts, was
fitted for college at Phillips Academy, .Vndover ; graduated
from Yale College, 183'>, and from Lane Seminary, 1837.
lie was one of the original founders of the Boston Rtview.
He is the author of several works, among them the " Life
of Christ," and journal of travel.
Rev. Cyrus C Riggs, a Pennsylvanian, graduated from
Allegheny Seminary. After leaving Chester, he became
President of Richmond College, Jefferson county, Ohio, and
subsequently took charge of a Female Seminary, at Beaver,
Penn'a.
Rev. A. J. Clark, was a native of Champaign county,
Ohio. Graduated from Delaware College, in 1859. He
accomplished much during his slay with the congregation at
Chester, in behalf of the Master's cause.
253
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Rev. D L. Gear, was a Congregational ist in faith. He
served the congregation faithfully, and in 1880, went to
Nokomis, where he died.
Rev. O. G. Morton, a native of Ttnnessee, is a young man
of decided ability. He was educated in Southern University,
Greensboro, Alabama, Vanderbilt University, Nashville,
Tennessee, and Lane Seminary, Cincinnati, Ohio, from
which institution he graduated. May, 1881. The following
September, he was called to the charge of the Chester
church, and in May, 1882, he was regularly ordained and
installed, as pastor. He is a fluent speaker, a genial geulle-
nian, and under his charge the cause is prospering. There
is at present a membership of fifty-eight persons. Sunday
School attendance about 100.
Liberty, now Rockwood Church, is on the Mississippi
river, in the southwest corner of Randolph county. It was
organized at the house of Dr. James C. Junk, by Rev.
Cyrus C Riggs, March 9th, 1843, with twenty-nine mem-
bers. The following ministers have served here: Cyrus C
Riggs, B. F. Spilmiin, Alex. Brown, A. A. Morrison, B. H.
Charles, A. R. Naylor, John C Wagaman, Alfred Wright.
James S. Davis.
In a revival, in 1862, twenty-nine persons were received ;
in another, in the winter of 1876, twenty-eight were added.
The name of the church was changed from Liberty, to
Rockwood, Feb. 16th, 1865, to correspond with the name
of the village, as changed by the Legislature. This con-
gregation met in private houses, or in the school-house,
until the dedication of the present house of worship, which
took. place late in the fall of 1864. This house is of brick,
and cost SI 950. The site is on two lots, which cost thirty
dollars.
Georgetown, now Steele's Mills church, was organized by
a committee of the Kaskaskia Presbytery, January 22d,
1859, with eleven members. James Brown sr., elder, John
Mathews, Wm. H. Templeton, A. J. Clark, J. W. Cecil,
and James S. Davis, have officiated as pastor.^.
The name of the church was changed from Georgetown,
to Steele's Mill's, in April, 1875. The organization took
place in the old Baptist house, which stood on the site of
their present edifice. Services were held mostly in the old
Baptist church, but sometimes in a store-house, on the Alma
side of the town, and occasionally at the railroad depot.
The site for the present, and only edifice owned by the con-
gregation, was given by Mr. and Mrs. \V. F. Stinder. The
building was erected in 1875, and cost 15000. The corner-
stone was laid, July 17th, 1875, and the edifice was com-
pleted in December, following. Since 1878, services have
not been regularly held.
SPARTA. Jordan's grove or Baldwin church,
Was organized at Sparta, July 24th, 184.3, by Rev. Cyrus
Riggs. First elders : H. M. Livingston, and Temperance
McCormick. Ministers ; Cyrus Riggs, to April, 1845 : B. F.
Spilman, from February, 1846, to September, 1851 : B Lefler,
one year : C. D. Martin, W. R. Sim, 18.58—60: Martin B.
Gregg, August, 1872, until his death, August 31st, 1873 :
James Scott Davis, January, 1874, to June, 1875: M M.
Cooper, September, 1876, to August, 1877. The name was
changed from Sparta to Jordan's Grove, April 12th, 1851.
It was again changed to Baldwin, after the church building
was moved to that village.
While worshiping in Sparta, this church had no edifice
of its own. Its meetings were not long held in that village,
but in the country, some five miles distant, northeast, where
a house of worship was erected, costing about a thousand
dollars. This house was removed to Baldwin, on the narrow
gauge railroad, in the fall of 1872, when it was repaired and
refurnished. Dedicated, June 1st, 1873. The congregation
is now in a languishing state.
The Church of Sparta, was organized June 5th, 1869, with
sixty-three members. Rev. John Hood, was their first
minister. He was dismissed, June 30th, 1878. He was a
native of this state, having been born in Washington county.
He was educated in Indiana State University, from which
institution he graduated, in 1862. Served as Lieutenant
and Captain, in the 80th Illinois Regiment. In October,
1865, he commenc;d the study of theology, in the Reformed
Presbyterian Seminary, at Allegheny City, Penn'a., and
was licensed, 1869. His eight years' pastnrate was marked
with great success. His successor was Rev. John \^'. Bailey,
now President of Blackburn University, Carlinville, Illinois.
The last pastor was Rev. Green, a young man of extraordi-
nary abilities, a master of oratory, a fine logician as well.
He has recently accepted a call from Chicago, which leaves
a vacancy in the pulpit of this church. This is, next to
Paris, Edgar Co., the largest organization in the state, hav-
ing a membership of over three hundred. The church edifice,
a handsome brick building, was erected in 1870, at a cost of
S9000.
THE CHRISTIAN CHURCH.
BY E, P. TRABUE.
The earliest recorded preaching in Randolph county, by
a minister of this denomination, dates back to 1844, when
Elder Harmon Husband, from Somerset county, Pennsyl-
vania, began his labors in the "Garden of the West,"
as Randolph county was then called. He labored in
diflferent localities in the county, and his labors were
crowned with a measure of success. In 1868 his followers at
Mill Creek organized themselves into a society, and met for
worship in the school-house. The Revs. Dr. Mulkey, Hus-
band, Combs, Thornberry, Bryan, J. T. Baker and John A.
Williams have preached for them. In the year 1872
a society was organized at Baldwin, and a plain substantial
frame house of worship was erected. The congregation,
which no longer meets for services, has sat under the
ministry of Revs. David Husband, Marion Combs, J.
L. Thornberry, James Bryan, J. T. Baker and John
A. Williams.
The Rockwood congregation was organized in the year
1867, by M. Linn and H. D. Bantan, and in 1874 a good
frame church building was erected, in which they at first
met regularly, but, like the congregation at Baldwin, they
have since abandoned their place of worship. They have
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
259
received the services of Rev. Dr. Mulkey and Rev. M.
Combs.
The membership of the Christian Church in the county
numbers about 200 persons, and the entire value of
its property does not exceed S2,000.
ST. MARK'S PARISH.
BY REV. THOMAS H. GORDON.
The only parish of the Protestant Episcopal church in Ran-
dolph county is St. Mark's. Chester, so that an account of its
origin and growth will be the history of the church in the
county. Its history has been marked by so few events in its
outward life suitable for a public record, that this sketch will
be simplv a brief narration of facts. Thi.s parish was founded
by the Rev. William Mitchtll.M.D ,asa missionary, who came
frotii the Atlantic states under the auspices of the Board of Do-
mestic Missions, and began his work here under the spiritual
jurisdiction of the Rt. Rev. Philander Chase, D. D. Mr. Mit-
chell entered upon his duties April 14, 1848, and on Sunday,
April IB, held church services in the court house at Kas-
kaskia. On the following Sunday a public school-house in
Chester was used for the same purpose, and at both these
places the sacrament of holy baptism was administered.
These were the first public services held in Randolph
county by a priest of the Protestant F]piscopal church.
Services were continued by Mr. Mitchell at Kaskaskia for
some time, and occasional services were held at other points^
but the only place in which they seemed to bear any visible
and permanent fruit was Chester. Upon his arrival in this
town Mr. Mitchell found but three male members of the
church, whose names we put on record. They were P.
Haskins, Richard B. Servant and William C Marlen. On
the Gth of May, 1S43, a meeting was held in Chester of
those interested in the church, and a parish was organized
by the election of wardens and vestrymen, the adoption of
the name, St. Mark's parish, and the election of a delegate to
the Diocesan Convention to be held in the following month
at Quincy, Adams county, Illinois. The officers of the or-
ganization were : Wm. P. Haskins, Senior Warden ; Richard
B. Servant, Junior Warden ; Wm. C. Marlen, Jas. H.Jones,
E. J. Whituey, J. M Bair, Vestrymen.
At the Diocesan Convention held at (Quincy June 5, 1843,
St. Mark's Parish, Cnester, was admitted into union with
the convention and became a part of the church in the dio-
cese and in the United States.
The first Episcopal visitation of the parish was made on
the Uth of the following month by the Rl. Rev. Philander
Chase, D. D., who administered the rite of confirmation to
eighteen persons These were the first fruits of the mis-
sionary's labors in Chester. From this time onward, amid
many difiiculties and discouragemenU. the parish continued
to increase; but the congregation having no church building,
were under the necessity of meeting for worship in the public
school-house. The lack of a house of worship was felt to be
a great hindrance to the progress of the parish, and at
length, on April 1, 1849, the corner-stone of the present
church was laid with appropriate ceremonies, by Bishop
Chase. Five years passed before the building was finished,
so great an undertaking was it for the small number of pa-
rishioners, even when assisted by kind friends in the Atlantic
states But the rector aud his flock triumphed over all
difficulties, and on May "28, 18.54, the church was dedicated.
The Rev. Mr. Mitchell was rector of the parish for a quarter
of a century, resigning his charge in 1868. During his min-
istry at Chester he baptized 216 persons, presented 90 can-
didates for confirmation, solen:nized 42 marriages and
committed 88 bodies to the grave. Such is the brief record
of twenty-five years of ministerial life.
The history of the church in Chester is chiefly a history
of Mr. Mitchell's labors in the Gospel, so that little can be
said of it without mention of his name.
Mr. Mitchell's successors in the charge of this parish have
been the Rev. R. Trewartha, from May 1, 1868, to May
1, 1870 : Rev. R. Ryall, from March 12, 1871, to December
14. 1875; Rev. J. T. Adderly, September 21, 1876, to
March 1, 1877 ; Rev. A. E. Wells, February 23, 1878, to
April 9, 1882, and Rev. Thos. II. Gordon, from May
7, 1882 St. Mark's church has thus been ministered to by
six clergymen during its forty years of existence. In that
period 396 persons have beeu baptized, 133 received the rite
of confirmation, 75 marriages have been solemnized and 161
bodies buried by the ministers of this church. This parish
has been under the spiritual jurisdiction of four bishops.
This sketch may well be concluded with statistics taken
from the report of St. Mark's parish to the fifth annual
Synod of the Diocese of Springfield, May, 1882 : Number of
families in parish as entered upon register, 30; souls, 177;
communicants, 52 ; Sunday-school scholars, 95.
FREEWILL BAPTIST CHURCH.
RANDOLPH AND PERRY COUNTIES.
EV REV. G. A. GORDON'.
The founder of this Christian denomination was the
Rev. Henry Smith Gordon, a native of Pennsylvania, who
emigrated with his father's family to Missouri, and settled
near St. Louis, when a mere boy. In the year 1836, at the
age of twentv, he removed to Randolph county, and united
with the Missionary Baptist Church, at Georgetown, now
Steelesville. Shortly afterward he entered the ministry and
acted with that church as missionary, organizer and pastor
until I'^ol, in the mean time attendiug Shurtlifl' College at
Alton. In the year 1850, while yet acting with the old
cluirch he organized a congregation, whose members en-
dorsed the doctrine of free and open communion, thus lay-
ing the corner-stone upon which the liberal Baptists of
southern Illinois, have continued to build. In 1851, he was
tried for heresy, by a court of ministers, and excluded from
the church. 'The greater part of the old congregation be-
came dissatisfied, and a meeting was held at the residence
of John P. Short, for the purpose of organizing a new
church. Rev. R- A. Bradley, of Jackson county, was chosen
moderator, and John McLaughlin, clerk. The meeting was
addressed by Rev. Gordon, Dr. Lawrence, Rev. John
Mathews and E. Lofton, Esq., and resulted in the organiza-
tion of a church with twenty members, all formerly belong-
260
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY' COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
ing to the old church. Thus was formed the first Freewill
Baptist church in Randolph county. Mr. Gordon was
elected pastor, and continued to serve the church in that
capacity for fifteen years. During the following summer
the church received an accession of twenty-five members.
The congregation proceeded to build a new church house
which was completed in three mouths. This society was
known as the Free Communion Baptist. Among its first
members were John T. Short, H. S. Gordon, Milton Mc-
Kinzie, W. VV. Higgerson, George Steele, John Guyman,
P. Higgerson, George Bowerman, Elizabeth Short, Nancy
Gordon, sr. and jr., Nancy Steele, Clarinda Garner and a
number of others. Shortly after. Rev. Gordon organized
Pleasant Ridge church, about two miles above Rockwood,
on the Mississippi river. Among its first members were
Robert Moore, Joseph Robertson, John Wood and others.
This church is still in active existence, under the pastoral
charge of Rev. W. R. Wilson, and numbers sixty members.
Next in order, was instituted a church at Denmark, in the
southwestern part of Perry county, known as Pipestone
church. Judge E. T. Reese, Ambrose Bradley and others were
among its first members. It also is at present in a flourish-
ing condition, numbering about forty-six members. Four
ministers, viz , H. S. Gordon, R. A. Bradley, Isaac Hale
and Wtlliam Bradley have served it in the capacity of pas-
tor. October 31, 18.!)1, a convention met at Steelesville,
then Georgetiwn, to organize these churches inloan associa-
tion. The delegates to this convention were H. S Gordon,
John S. Short, F. Garner, R. A. Bradley, David Under-
wood, William Bradley, Robert Moore, Joseph Robinson,
E. P. Reese and J. A. Bradley. The organization formed
was known as the Southern Illinois Association of Free
Communion Baptists. In the year 1854, it learned of the
existence of a body of Christians in Indiana, holding sub-
stantially the same views, known as (Jeneral Baptists, and
in 1856, the new organization adopted that name.
In 1866, G. A. Gordon, J. C.-Gilliland and A. Pearson
were added to the list of ministers. In the fall of 1872, the
Georgetown church was moved to Percy. Sometime in 1874,
the Rev. J. C. Gilliland organized Bethany church, two
miles nor heast of Tamaroa, in Perry county. In 1876 our
churches were called together in convention at Campbell
Hill, to consider the advisability of consolidating with the
Freewill Baptists. After much deliberation, that step was
taken and their name adopted. In 1879, Rev. V. B. Sutter
organized Antioch church, located about one mile west of
Tamaroa. And in 1880, Rev. H. S. Gordon and V. B. Sut-
ter constituted Salem church, situated about six miles north
of Pinckneyville, in Perry county. The six churches of
this deuomiuation, with one exception, all own good com-
fortable church liouses, and have an aggregate membership
of two hundred and thirty communicants. Thus have I
recorded unembellished, the principal facts of the origin and
history of the Freewill Baptist church of Randolph and
Perry counties.
GERMAN M. E. CHURCH.
BY REV. P. COLONIUS.
The first pastor was Henry Hartmann, who organized
the church at Red Bud, known as the " Monroe Mission."
In 1842 the first church was built about two and one-half
miles northwest of Red Bud, in Monroe county, and received
the name, Wesley Chapel. The first quarterly meeting was
held Nov 22, 1846. In 1864 the new brick building, 60x
48, was built in the town (now city) of Red Bud, at a cost
of about $4,500 ; also, a comfortable parsonage was bought
at a cost of 11200. Thid was accomplished under the pas-
toral labor of Philip Merkel.
The first school was organized in 1864. Its first minutes
report one superintendent, five teachers and fifceen scholars ;
and at present it numbers a superintendent, fifteen teachers
and one hundred scholars.
Peter Colon ius is the present pastor.
The following is a list of presiding elders and pastors who
have served the church : Henry Hardtraann, Charles
Koeneke Cammermeyer, Wm. Kaverraester, Theo. Kark,
mann, Geo. Boeshenz, Christian Hoech, Franz Horstmann,
Henry Schmidt, Jacob Mueller, Thomas Heyer, William
Meyer, Rudolph Havrighorst, Henry Schultze, Phillip
Merkel, John Feisel, Charles Rodenberg, Henry Balche,
Wm. Schuetz, G. E. Keller, Phillip Skaer and Peter Colonius,
the present pastor.
The church at Chester was organized in 1848 under the
pastoral labor of Geo. Boeshenz, and in 1850 the first church
house was built in connection with the English Methodist
Church. In 1873 the building now occupied by this con-
gregation was purchased for $3,000. They organized the
first Sunday School in 1851. They have a membership
of 105.
The Randolph and Steelesville congregations, belonging
to the Chester Circuit, were organized about the same time
as the circuit, and in 1882 a new church was built at Ran-
dolph, under the pastoral labor of P. W. Jacoby, the present
pastor, at a cost of 82,500.
The church at Ellis Grove was organized in 1846 by Len-
hard Hardnagel, a local preacher from Red Bud, and the
first meetings were held at the residence of John George
Schoepples. The first church house was built in 1848, under
the pastoral labor of George Boeshenz ; the present one was
built in 1868, under the pastoral labor of C Stueckemann,
at a cost of about $2,000. The congregation also have a
parsonage valued at $800. The present pastor is T. M. Buch-
holtz. The first Sunday School was organized in 1854, and
at present it numbers 10 teachers and 55 scholars.
It should be observed that the sketch of the German
Methodist Churches of Randolph county brings their history
down to a period in November, 1882 ; and founded as it is
upon data derived from the several records, it is hoped it
may be found to be a faithful account of its origin, develop-
ment and progress.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
261
MONROE COUNTY.
CONCORD PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
BY JOHN C. BLAIR.
The Reformed Presbyterian (Ihurch was constituted iu
America during the year 1774, by Rev. Messrs. John Cuih-
berson, Matthew Lin and Alexander Dobbin (with ruling
elders). She traces her history from the period between
1638-1649, and adiieres to the doctrines held by the Church
of Scotland, as protesters against Popery, Prelacy and
Erastianism supported by other Presbyterians of that age.
In 1806 they (the Reformed Presbyterians) adopted their
present Standards and Testimony. One of her laws excluded
slaveholders from her communion, and her ministers
preached in favor of the abolition of slavery in the United
States.
The Concord congregation of the Reformed Presbyterian
Church was organized Nov. 9, 1842, and the following
named persons (heads of families) made a call on Rev. M.
Harshaw, of Pennsylvania, to be their pastor: Tliomas
Blair and John Richmond, Tuling elders; Matthew Rich-
mond, John Cunningham, M. J. Cunningham, Robert Cun-
ningham, Andrew Cooper, George Campbell, Matthew
McClure, David McClure, William McClure, Samuel
McClure, John McClure, Thomas McClure, James McMil-
lan, Milton McMillan, Matthew McMillan, William Camp-
bell, Matthew Munford, Hugh Cooper and James Cunning-
ham. The call was accepted, and Rev. Harshaw was
installed as pastor, remaining in charge until 1870, during
which time he gathered together a large and influential
congregation. Rev. Harshaw was born in county Armagh,
Ireland, in 1807 ; crossed to America in 1826 ; attended the
Western University, at or near Pittsburgh ; graduated with
honor in 1838, pursued his theological course under Dr.
Black and was licensed to preach in 1840 by the Pittsburgh
Presbytery of the Reformed Presbyterian Church. Mr.
Harshaw wa-s a thorough Biblical scholar, and his mind was
well stored with useful knowledge. In 1870 he and part of
his congregation connected themselves with the United Pres-
byterian Church, and he remained in it until his death, Aug.
11, 1874.
During seven years the Concord congregation was without
a pastor, and at intervals had preaching from a number of
ministers — Revs. Samuel AVylie, D. D., LL.D., Eden, 111. ;
David Steele, D. D., Philadelphia; J. F. Morton, D. D.,
Ohio ; S. M. Ramsey, Chicago ; Matthew and William
Gailey, Philadelphia, and Mr. David Murdock, Ohio Mr.
Alexander Raulstone (licentiate) was sent to the congrega-
tion Tor the spring and summer of 1877. In May, 1878, he
was ordained and installed pastor. After nearly four years,
on account of ill health, he resigned his charge and removed
to St. John's, N.B.,a more congenial climate, taking charge
of a congregation there.
The membership of the Concord congregation now num-
bers 110, with 6 ruling elders. During Rev. Harshaw's
pastorate the membership numbered about 160. The fol-
lowing are the names of the ruling elders ordained since its
organization : D. S. McClure, Milton JIcMillan, James
McMillan, Hugh Cooper, Henry Irvine, David Stevenson,
W. R. Blair, John S. Faris, J. C. Blair, Riley McClure, A.
Y. Richmond and John B. Gordon, M. D.
METHODIST EPISCOPAL CHURCH.
We have been disappointed greatly in our efforts to gather
sufficient materials to enable us to give a full history of the
rise and progress, in this county of this organization.
For many years before Illinois was admitted into the sis-
terhood of States, Methodist ministers were here, holding
meetings in the pioneer cabins, forming societies, defending
the frontier, and actively engaged in giving moral and re-
ligious tone to society. The history of Methodism in Illinois
begins in Monroe and Randolph counties. Th efirst minister
of this faith, who came to Illinois was the Rev. Joseph Lil-
lard ; he established the first church in Illinois, at New De-
sign, in Monroe county, in 1793. He had been a circuit-
rider in Kentucky, iu 1790. In this society Rev. Lillard
appointed Captain Joseph Ogle, class leader. Rev. Lillard
was a pious, energetic man, whose labors sowed the first seeds
of Methodism in this State.
The next prominent preacher was Hosea Rigg, who ar-
rived in Illinois in 1796, and remained preaching in this
county until his death, in 1841, at his residence a few miles
east of Belleville, in St. Clair county. Rev. Benjamin
Y'^oung, who was sent here by the " Western Annual Confer-
ence," in the year 1804, was tha first circuit-rider in Illinois.
His father resided in Randolph county. Rev. Thomas
Harrison, came in 1804; Dr. Joseph Oglesby, in 1805;
Rev. Charles R. Matheny, in 1806. Rev. Jesse Walker and
Bishop McKendree were among the earliest preachers in Il-
linois, all of whom held services within the limits of Monroe
county.
The earliest meetings were held in the rude cabins of the
pioneers, and it was not uutil several years after the first
preachers arrived, that the societies were large enough to
build churches. The old block-houses or forts, were also
used for divine worship, and in them many of the earliest so-
cieties date their organization. The first services of this de-
nomination in Waterloo, were held in the old Court-house,
early in the present century. The society grew, and in
1828, a house of worship was erected. For several years the
church had a membership of over one hundred, and grew,
and was prosperous. Many of the American families have
moved from this section of the State, and their places have
been filled by foreigners, who are mostly members of other
denominations, and the Methodist church, at this writing, is
not very strong in Monroe county. At Waterloo they have
a church valued at two thousand dollar.'*, and a i)arsonage
worth eight hundred dollars, and church property at Colum-
bia valued at fifteen hundred dollars.
Several societies have been organizid at various times,
and flourished for a short period, but finally ceased to be
operative. The county is now included into a circuit, all
churches being supplied alternately by the pastor in charge.
It is known as the Waterloo circuit.
262
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
THE GERMAN EVANGELICAL CHURCH.
BY REV. F. HOLKE.
St. Paul's Church. — This church is at Waterloo, and dates
its origin back to the year A. d. 1846. Of the small
number of German families that had then settled in and
about Waterloo, Rev. W. Binner organized an evangelical
congregation, which assembled for services at the court
house. The first confirmation was celebrated in an English
church. The feeling of being homeless evoked in the con-
gregation the desire of having a house of worship of their
own, and the little flock accordingly built a small edifice.
This neat brick church was dedicated on the 28th of No-
vember, 1847. But twelve families were then actually
members. The Revs. Baltzer, Wall, Binner and Knauss,
who are now dead, oflSciated at the dedication. A year
after dedication Rev. Binner was compelled by sickness to
leave the congregation. He installed Dr. G. Steinert,
recently from Germany, as his successor. In 1850 a par-
sonage and school-house were built. The church attend-
ance increasing a more commodious church, 70x40 feet, with
galleries and a steeple with large bell was built in LS-j.J-oG.
It was dedicated on the 21st day of September, 18.36, Rev.
A. Baltzer, assisted by Revs. Binner, Wall, Knauss, Peters,
and pastor luci officiating. Dr. Steinert labored faithfully
and diligently in church and school, and succeeded in build-
ing up a large congregation. When the public school-house
was built, the parochial school was closed, and remained so
for several years. In 1874 the old steeple was removed, and
a more massive spire built up from the ground to the height
of 125 feet. Two new bells were placed in it at once, and a
third one was added in 1880. Soon after the accomplish-
ment of this improvement Dr. Steinert, after having labored
with great energy and perseverance for 26 years, tendered
his resignation, preached his farewell sermon on the 27th
day of September, 1875, and installed as his successor the
present pastor, Rev. Father Holke, then at Summerfield,
111. Father Steinert died on the 16th day of April, 1876.
The ministrations of the present pastor. Rev. F. Holke,
have been blessed with success. He established a good
parochial school, secured for its work the services of Mr. J.
F. Riemeier, who fills his position to universal satisfaction.
In 1877 a new pipe organ, valued at 11,000, was ac(iuired.
The interior of the church has been improved, a new par-
sonage, a two-story brick, built close by the church. The
congregation numbers now 120 active members (families).
Three of the founders, H. Pinkel, J. Koechel and J. Olden-
dorph, are yet very active members.
St. Paul's Church at Columbia. — Rev. Dr. Steinert,
during his ministration at Waterloo, preached occasionally
to a few German families at Columbia. In 1857 a congre-
gation was organized, and as they were not able to support
their own minister, Father Steinert served them seven
years. In 1861 Rev. M. Fotrich took charge of the church,
but left after two years and several months labor. Rev.
Klingsohr, an independent minister, was then elected
pastor. His labors were unsuccessful, and he left. The
people then applied to Father Steinert to procure them a
good minister. This he did in the person of Rev. E. Otto,
a pastor that served four- j'ears with good success, after
which he was elected professor of the theological seminary
at Marthasville, Mo. Rev. L. Reymann was his successor
two years, and then he was also elected professor. After
that Rev. Jul. Hoffmann served two years, and Rev. C.
Kantz was his successor for five years, until 1880, when
Rev. J. Hoffman, who is now pastor, was called the second
time. There are at present 44 families in membership.
The property consists of a church, parsonage and school
house.
Salem Church. — This church is in Bluff Precinct, and has
been in existence since 1844. It was organized by Rev. G.
Ries, but never had its oivn minister. Until 1875 it was a
second church to Waterloo ; since that time it is in connec-
tion with the St. John's church at Maeystown. It numbers
42 members (families). Five of the founders — Peter
Voelker, John Mueller, Jac. Schleramer, Philip Hofl'man
aud Christ. Schaefer — are yet actual members.
St John'.i Church. — The origin of this church dates back
to the year 1858. Rev. Bergmann gathered a few families
at tlie residence of Mr. W. Feldmeyer, near Maeystown. In
1859 the congregation, numbering but very few members,
erected a log church at Maeystown. Some difficulty among
the members caused Rev Bergmann to withdraw his service.
Rev. Louis Haeberle, stationed near Burksville, was called
to reorganize the congregation. This was done, and from
that time its growth was such that in 1865 a larger church
was required. This church, a stone building, was finished
and dedicated in '66. In the following year a parsonage at
the cost of 81700 was built. Rev. F Ra.sche was the first
stationed pastor at Maeystown. He served 4 years. Rev. F.
Streit was his successor from 1871 to 1875. Rev. J. Baehr
served two years. The present pastor, Rev. E J. Hosto,
was installed in spring of 1876. His ministrations are blessed
with great success, so that the congregation at Maeystown
to-day is among the best in the county. It has 57 members.
St. Mark's Church. — This church is in Prairie du Round,
and is the oldest German evangelical church in the county.
A congregation was organized in January, 1840, but it
prospered very slowly. The first church, a log building, was
erected in 18)5, and dedicated April 221, 1846. The
religious interest that was shown by the members was very
feeble, so the change of ministers was frequent. No less
than ten pastors served in this church in 36 years,
including long vacancies. Under such circumstances
prosperity was impossible. The present pastor, Rev. Aug.
Jannrieh, a faithful and diligentgeutleman, has been laboring
with good success since 1876 In 1877 a brick parsoLSge
was erected. The church attendance is better than ever
before. 32 members have joined the congregation.
The Immanuel's Church. — This is a second church to the
St Mark's at Prairie du Round. It was organized by Rev.
F. Erdmanu in 1857. From 1863 to 1876 it was vacant.
In August, 1876, Rev. Aug. Jennrich took up the work,
and since that time the congregation prospers, so that a
church will be built soon. The services are held in a
public school-house. There are 25 families in membership.
Zoar Church.— In the year 1844 German ministers were
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
263
rare in this country, and the German christians lived scat-
tered without churches. Rev. Conrad Riess, stationed at
Centreville, St. Clair county, 111., came over to Xew Hanover
to look after the religious interest of the Germans at that
place. He found a number of families that were happy to
see a minister in the new country. A congregation was
organized and soon a log church and parsonage were built.
Many ditficultiis, however, came in the way and the change
of ministers was frequent. The successors to Rev. Riess
were: Revs. Ch. Schrenk, R. Boeticher, N. Werth, F.
Delveau, J. Seyboldt, W. Wahl and George Maul. The
last named gentlemau has been in charge of the church since
spring, 187G. In 186.") a new etouo church, and in 1>S70 a
new brick parsonage were built. The membership numbers
50.
Zion's Chtircli. — The German evangelical Christians in
and about Burksville, fur a long time, traveled from « to 1 2
miles to attend church at Waterloo. In 1860 they thought
themselves strong enough to build their own church and
have their own minister. By mediation of Father Steinert
Rev. Louis Haeberle was sent to organize a congregation.
This was done in October, 1860. A church and parsonage
were soon built, and by the faithful labor of the pastor the
congregation prospered, but after three years Rev. Haeberle
was elected pastor of St. John's church at St. Louis. Rev.
F A. Umbeck was his successor for one year, then he was
drafted and served for several years as chaplain in the
Union army. The congregation had the misfortune of a
frequent change of ministers, and prospered but slow. The
present pastor, Rev. H. Schmidt, has had charge of the
church since August, 1880. The membership at present
numbers 40.
iS<. Paul's Church. — About 1879 the English Methodist
people at Harrisonville built a neat frame church, but as
they were so few they sold their church to the Germans,
and in the spring of 1882, a German evangelical congrega-
tion was organized by Rev. E. J. Hosto from Maeystowu.
About 40 members joined. Messrs. Peter Ptlaesterer, Ily.
Niebruege, Gottfr Haltenhotf and William Stechmesser
are the first elected trustees. A niini.'ter was stationed
there in the last da3's of Noveinl)er, 1>^X'2.
BAPTIST CHURCH.
BY REV. A. WISWELL.
Ever since the Church and State were first united, the
Baptists have suffered much persecution on account of their
loyalty to soul liberty. Bancroft, the historian, speaking of
the German Baptists, says: " With greater consistency than
Luther, they applied the doctrines of the Reformation to
the social positions of life, and threatened an end of priest-
craft and king-craft, spiritual domination, title and vassal-
age. They were trodden under foot with foul reproaches
and most arrogant .scorn, and their history is written in the
blood of thousands of the German peasantry ; but their
principles, secure in their immortality, escaped with Roger
Williams to Providence, — his colony is witness that, natu-
rally, the paths of the Baptists are paths of freedom, pleas-
antness and peace" Mr. Locke has truly said: "The
Baptists were, from the beginning, the friends of liberty —
just and true liberty — equal and impartial liberty." Yet,
until the (Quakers arose in 1060, the Baptists stood alone in
its defense. A writer for the New American Cyclopedia
says : " Among the Baptists, Christian freedom found its
earliest, its staunchest, its most consistent and its most dis-
interested champions. Nor less powerful has been the influ-
ence of the Baptists in the United States. Introduced into
Rhode Island with Roger Williams and John Cook in 1638,
their history for more than a century in most of the colonies
is that of proscribed and banished men. In its code of law
established by them in Rhode Island, Judge Story says: —
" We read, for the first time since Christianity ascended the
throne of the Cxsars, the declaration that conscience should
be free, and men should not be punished for worshipping
God in the way they were persuaded He requires." The
Amendment to the Americiin Constitution made in 1780, was
introduced into it by the united efforts of the Baptists. The
spirit of liberty infused by the Revolutionary war was fol-
lowed by the rapid spread and growth of Baptist principles.
In fact, their great prosperity dates from that era.
The First Protestant Church in Illinois, a Baptist Church.
— On the 29lh of February, 170.5, nearly a quarter of a
century prior to the admission of the State of Illinois into
the Union, Elder David Badgly organized a Baptist church
of twenty-eight members at New Design, thus being the first
Protestant organized church within the boundaries of the
State. The State now contains nearly one thousand churches,
about seven hundred ministers, and upwards of sixty-eight
thousand members
CATHOLIC CHURCH.
BY REV. J. ECKERLE.
Tiptown. — This part of the county commenced to be set-
tled in 184(i by Irish Catholics. Patrick Lynch, David
Donahoe and Tim Duggan were the first pioneers that
called many a friend from St. Louis and Ireland to their
new home, to help them to clear the forests and to cultivate
the fertile land. About 18.53 Tiptown was a prosperous
Irish settlement. Before 1<S50 Catholic priests attended
Tiptown, partly from St. Louis and partly from Prairie du
Long. Service was held at that time in a private house. In
18.50 Rev. McAbe bought forty acres of Congress land and
built a log church, which was used for service until 1)^64.
From 18.52 to 18.54 Rev. Pat. Gallagher and Rev. J. Keane
visited Tiptown occasionally from Runia. From lis.54 to
1«61 Rev. J. W. Gittbrd, residing at Ruma, had charge of
the congregation, and got all the articles necessary for divine
service. At his death he willed some money to build a par-
sonage at Tiptown. From ItOl to 11^63, Rev. F. C. Carroll
and Rev. Recouvreur attended Tiptown, from Ruma and
Prairie du Long. From 1863 to l'S60, Rev. John T. Mohr,
residing at Red Bud, made the congregation what it is to-
day. In l>i()4, on the 7th of April, he laid the corner-stone
of the present st<jtie church. In 1^60 he built at Tijjtown the
handsomest parsonage in Monroe county, a two story brick
264
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
building. From 18G9 to 1871, Rev. P. Dee was rector.
From 1871 to 1877, Rev. James Deneher officiated iu that
capacity. He improved the church and parsonage to a great
extent — built a belfry and procured a bell. From 1877 to
1878, Rev. Aug. Brunileve attended the congregation occa-
sionally from Red Bud. In 1878 Rev. F. Stick was
appointed rector, and procured many articles for the church
and the parsonage. In 1881 he was appointed rector of
Pana, III. Rev. J. Eckerle succeeded him and is the
present rector. He has made about S600 worth repairs and
improvements on the church propert}'.
Renault. — The congregation in this town was organized in
1880 by Rev. F. Stick, and the following year it succeeded
in building a handsome frame church, worth about 81,800.
The pews being rented in 1882, the church was found to be
too small. Rev. J. Neuhaus is the present rector This
congregation has made great progress since its organization.
]rn/ti"/oo. — This town has the largest Catholic congrega-
tion in the county. It numbers at present about two hun-
dred families. Before 1849 the Catholics were visited
occasionally by Rev. Cotting, S. J., Rev. McCabe and
others, from St. Louis and the neighborhood. In 1849 Rev.
M. Prendergast was appointed resident rector of Waterloo-
Rev Prendergast organized a congregation, and in the same
year laid the cornerstone of a brick chiirch 40x70. In
18.52 this church was dedicated by Rev, O'Regan, in honor
of St. Peter and St. Paul, Rev. Patrick Gallagher being the
rector at the time. In October of the same year a school
house was built and a Catholic school commenced. From
1854 to 18.56, Rev. P. J. Bakes, now bishop of the diocese,
had charge of the congregation. Rev. Baltes finished the
church and procured all the articles necessary for divine
service. He also bought a graveyard for the Catholics, and
established a Rosary society in the congregation. Rev. Fr.
Fischer succeeded Rev. P. J. Baltes from 18.56 to 1861. Rev.
Fischer succeeded in building a two story brick house for the
rector. In 18.58 he bought an organ at the cost of S800, and
in 18.59 enlarged the church. In 1860 he also built a steeple.
Since 1861 Uev. P Limacher has been rector. His labors
have made the congregation and church what they are. In
1861 he bought a second bell, and in 1863 built a spire. The
same year he established a library society, which has now
700 volumes, in 1865 he built a convent and academy, at
the cost of 815,000. The next year he enlarged the old
school house for S2 869. This was to be used for the boys
exclusively and the academy for the girls. In 1867 he pur-
chased the Rust property, adjoining the church lots, for the
sum of $1,535. In 1875 he erected a house of worship at a
cost of 810,000. In 1876 he procured a magnificent high
altar for it, worth 81,500. In 1868 he also established the
St. Vincent Benevolent Society, for the support of the poor
and destitute and for the aid of school children unable to
pay. At present it has 80 members. In 1876 he established
St. Peter and St. Paul's Mutual Aid Society for cases of
sickness and death. Its present membership is 50. St.
Aloysius' Young Men's Society, for promoting a virtuous
and Christian life amongst the Catholic young men, was
established in 1879. It has 60 members. The main build-
ing and tower, commenced in 1875, are 'now (1882) com-
pleted, at the cost of 817,500. This church is 131 feet long
and 61 feet wide ; the tower 150 feet high. The congrega-
tion is at present in a most flourishing condition and numbers
over 1,000 members. The parish school is attended by 200
children, under the direction of five highly qualified teachers,
of the Sisters of St. Joseph. From this we see what a faithful
rector can accomplish in the course of twenty years.
Prairie du Long — This is about the oldest congregation
in the county. In the last century Catholic Frenchmen
settled here and gave the place its name. In the beginning
of this century a large immigration of English Catholics
followed, and Prairie du Long had a good-sized Catholic
congregation. Priests, however, being very scarce at that
time, it was attended only occasionally by a missionary
priest. The first church records we find in 1828. In this
year the Catholics took up a subscription and built a church,
which was consecrated in 1838 by Rt. Rev. Joseph Rosati,
of St. Louis, Rev John Kenning being the first resident
rector of the place. Having a poor foundation, the church
soon became dilapidated. Rev. B. McCabe rebuilt it in
1845, and procured all the articles necessary for divine ser.
vice. From 1849 until 1861 Revs. J. Keane and J. W.
Gifford attended Prairie du Long, as other duties permitted.
From 1861 until 1867, Revs. F. C. Caroll, J. Mohr, J.
Turk, and Fr Mueller were the rectors successively. Rev.
Mr. Caroll built the first parsonage. In 1867 Rev. John
Berlage was appointed rector, and has charge of the congre-
gation at present. He paid oflT all the debts yet incumbent
on the church, and improved the organization The same
year he established a parish school, and commenced to build
a two-story brick parsonage. In 1872 he added a steeple to
the church and procured some bells for it. To his labors
the present well-improved condition of the church property
is due.
Madonnaville. — Divine service was celebrated for the first
time in the vicinity of this place iu the year 1790, by Rev.
Mr. Olivier, S. J., and next by Rt. Rev. Du Bourge, who
visited the Catholics along the Mississippi from New Or-
leans in 1819. From this year until 1839 no priests are
recorded to have visited Madonnaville. The number of
Catholics, however, increasing by large immigrations from
Germany, Mr. James succeeded in having priests from Ca-
hokia and St. Louis to visit them occasionally. In 1841 the
first church was built by a part of the Catholics. This
church, however, being too remote for a greater portion of
the congregation, a second building was started in 1844 on
the place where the present rock church stands, and was
finished in 1850 by Rev. Mr. McCabe of Prairie du Long.
Regular service was now held once a month by Revs. Pen-
tegrass, Gallagher and Masterson, from Waterloo. In 1855
Rev. P. J. Baltes (now bishop of the diocese), having charge
of the congregation, took up a subscription to build a stone
church and had all ready to start. Being removed, how-
ever, to Belleville, Rev. Mr. Fisher completed the church,
and attended Madonnaville until 1861 from Waterloo.
1861-1866, Rev. L. Hinssen was the resident rector of the
congregation. The first year he built a two-story parsonage
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
265
of rock, and in 1862 started a parish school in his own
house. In 1864 he built a steeple. Adam Dehra having do-
nated a bell. 1866-1868, Franciscan priests, Revs. Berlage
and Limacher, attended the congregation. Rev. Mr. Hinsseu
having been removed. 1868-1872, Rev. F. Stick took
charge of it, improved its organization, and procured many
articles for divine service. 1872-1875, Rev. H. Htsse was
appointed rector, but, having poor health, could not work
much. 1875-187H, Rev. B Ahue succeeded him His main
work was the buidiug of a two-story school house of stone ;
ill health, however, compelled hira to give up the charge
of the congregation. Rev. B. Claus was his successor from
1878 to 1882 He worked hard to reduce the debt incum
bent on the church property, and shortly before his removal
had the church decorated «ith fre.sco painting. In the be-
ginning of 1882, Rev. L. Quitter was appointed his succes-
sor, and hm charge of the congregation at present. He
works successfully in the congregation, and raised §600 00
the first year to make improvements and pay off the church
debt.
Co^umi/a. — Before 1847 service was held in a private
house by priests who visited the place from the neighbor-
hood. In 1846 Mr. McQuaid donated a lot for the building
of a church, and the following year a small church building
of rock was erected. From 1847 to 18.)J Revs. H Luer-
mann (of Centreville) and J. Gallagher held regular service
once a month, and procured the uectssary articles for it.
l.'^."):M8-w, Rev. P. J. Baltes attended Columbia from Wa-
terloo, and established a parish school. 18.55-18.36 Rev. H.
Luermann attended the parish again and bought a school
h)use for 8600. 1856-18o8 Revs. Messrs. Fibber and Th
Raphael had charge of this congregation. In this period
the church was improved and a cemetery procured. 1858-
1860, Rev. A. Pinkers was appointed resident rector of Co-
lumbia. He organized the congregation well and built a
two-story parsonage for §1600. 1^61-1864, Rev. \V. Koe-
nig succeeded Rev. A. Pinkers. This rector worked faith-
fully for the congregation. He bought a lot for a new
church, built a steeple, ami procured three large bells In
1864 he died at Columbia of consumption. In 1865, Rev.
Julius Maurer was appointed his successor, and has charge
of the congregation at present. He paid off all the old
debts of the congregation. In 18()7 he built a new, spacious
church for S2.'!00. In 1873 he enlarged the old church
for a school, and called the Ursuline Sisters from Louisville,
Ky., to take charge of the parish school. Rev. Mr. Maurer
has succeeded in bringing the congregation to a flourishing
condition in every respect, and can look with pride on his
work of the past seventeen years at Columbia.
PERRY COUNTY.
CHRISTIANS OR DISCIPLES.
BY J. E. PROPH.^TER.
This denomination of Christians has three church build-
ings in Perry county, 1< cated respectively at Du Quoin,
Friendship and Mulkey Grove. The men who have been
identified with its interests have added to its permanancv,
34
are the Popes and VVheatleys of Da Quoin, and Lysias
Heape of Taniaroa. The earliest preaching among the Dis-
ciples in the county was by William Pyle and Philip Mul-
key. Pyle lived in Tamaroa township in 1839, and preached
in the vicinity uf Du Quoin, and baptized several persons
before 1840. Mulkey preached in Old Du Quoin and in
Paradise Prairie about the same time. In 1840, the Heape
family, all Disciples, moved to Perry, from Richland county,
Ohio. In 1840, the following persons were or soon became
members of the church : Elizabeth Pyle, sr., Wm. Pyle,
Hannah Pyle, Abner Pyle, sr., Sarah Pyle, sr , Abner Pyle,
jr. (Coast Surveyor), Mary Pyle, Sarah Pyle, jr., Martha
Pyle, John Pyle, Louisa Pyle, Matilda Pyle, Martha Wil-
Hams, William Williams, Bi.xy Williams, Frederick Wil-
liams, Rachel McElvain, Elvira Lse, Jonzi Orton and wife,
Martha Heape, sr., Thos. Heape, Lysias Heape, John
Heape and the wives respectively of Thos. and Lvsias,
Elizabeth and Hannah Heape. also Martha and Ann Heape,
composing the family, all members in Ohio. In June, 1840,
a temporary organization was formed of the scattered flock.
A meeting was held one mile west of St. John, and 21 names
enrolled Wm. Pyle and Lysias Heape officiated as bishops.
Services were held in private houses until a school and
church house was built on the farm and present residence of
Mrs. Martha Williams, two miles west of Du Quoin. Wm.
Pyle preached fretjuently at various points in the settle-
ments during the first years of the work, but afterward
moved to Missouri. Lysias Heape was the main evangelist
for years in Perry county. He preached not onlv in Perry,
but extended his labors into adjoining counties. He is still
living, at the age of (iO. Wm. Bristow and John Hayes of
Horse Prairie, Franklin county, aided Elder Heape from
41 to 46, exchanging labors from time to time.
When in 1855, the 111. C. R. R. was built and Du Quoin
founded, the place of meeting was moved to Du Quoin. In
1857, Lysias Heape enclosed the present church building
north of the City Park, in Du Quoin. Mr. Keys, an old
citizen, donated the lot and SI 00 for the house. A
front and cupola have since been added. The Wheatleys
moved to Du (^uoin alwut this period — I-^aac Wheatley first
and then his brother Robert. Both have served the church
as teachers, elders and active workers for years. Isaac died
some years since, but Robert after half a century's labors is
still found at his post. He has been unexampled almost, for
his ability in his. work.
Isaac and Neivtou Mulkey labored for the church in Du
Quoin, during its infancy.
Elder Heape with casual visits from others served in the
weekly administrations.
In 1862, O. A. Burgess, since Prest. of X. W. Christian
University of Indianapolis, held the first and most success-
full meeting for the church.
A number were brought in under his ministry who have
been the prop and stay of the cause since. Among these
were P. N. Pope, B. F. Pope, jr , R. A. Wheatley, E. S.
Wheatley, Artenias Brown and Leander Brown. One of
these has since entered the ministry, Leander Brown, and is
now filling worthily bis important truH.
•266
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
J. Z. Taylor, now of Kansas City Misouri, held two suc-
cessful meetings. W. F. Black of Indianapolis, and Wm.
Patterson of Misouri, followed with numerous accessions.
Others have preached more or less for the church, viz. :
Clark Braden, R. B. Roberts, H. R. Trickett and Ira J.
Chase. Several religious discussions have been held in Du
Quoin, by leading ministers Clark Braden held public
discussions with Underwood, a skeptic, and with Dunn, a
spiritualist. In these discussions. Braden with much force
and ability defended the Bible as a Divine Revelation. J.
S. Sweeny discussed with G. W. Hughey, Methodist ques-
tions of difference on baptism, etc. Both of these men were
able controversialists.
W. L. Crira and Colcord, Seventh Day Adventi-t, ex-
amined the Scriptures publicly on the Sabbath, and First
Day observances. The following ministers have served as
pastors of the church since 1863: John Lindsey, Leander
Brown, Peter Vogel, Buford Allen, T. J. Shelton, J. S.
Rose, H. F. Tandy, J. E. Prophater. There have been
several hundred added to the church since its organization ;
changes, removals and death have left it with a present resi-
dent membership of 70.
The lady members have had societies and contributed te
the general and home work. The Sunday School has been
always maintained ; The board of officers of the congregation
are B. F. Pope and R. J. Wheatley, Elders. R. A. Wheat-
ley, P. V. Pope and J. M. Wheatley, Deacons. J. E
Prophalter pastor.
The Church at frienilship was formed by P. W. Jones a
Baptist minister. P. W. Jones and J. C. Wilson, in the
spring of 1867 organized the church at the Paririe Grove
School House. The following names appear on the record, as
charter members signing the covenant.
Jacob Nowart, Michael Goos, S. C.Moore, G. W. Staton
D. L. Benson, Wm. Baker, Julia Staton, Nancy Staton,
Margaret Staton, Easter Benson, Bexy Miller, Eliza
Miller and Eliza Staton.
lu 1869 G. W. Puckett, a Baptist minister from Tennessee
located with the church. Through his labors, the church
grew. On the first Saturday in March 1870, the Declar-
ation of Faith, Covenant and Rules of Decorum were re-
pealed and the Bible alone without any other written creed
was adopted as a rule of faith and practice. The moderator
at this meeting was G W. Puckett and clerk S. C. Moore.
In 1870, the present house of worship was built three
miles west of Tamaroa. D. L. Benson and John Miller
served as Elders, and Michael Goos with Abraham Heape
as Deacons.
The following ministers have labored for the church, G
W. Puckett, Lysias Heape, Newton Mulkey, Isaac Mulkey,
John A. Williams, Wra. .McDonold, Louis Goos and David
Husband. The church has given one to the ministry, Lewis,
Goos. Its present membership is forty six. Pastor in charge
David Husband.
The church at Mulkey Grove was begun by Wakefield
De Wilt, and enjoyed for years the labors of Elder Newton
M. Mulkey.
Elder Mulkey not only watered the flock, but donated the
land upon which the present church edifice stands. The
present house was built in the last few years and is yet un-
finished. The congregation has been broken up by remov-
als to the west. A few still reside in the neighborhood and
in Tamaroa. Dr. Lovelady, J. N. Stoker, Frederick
Williams and families with a few others remain of the ori-
ginal baud.
PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
BY REV. C. P. PHILLIPS.
The first Presbyterian church in Perry county was organized
at the house of Mrs. .Sarah Roop, in old Du Quoin, Nov. 15,
1840, by Rev. Beuj. B. Brown. Two years later, December
16, 184-2, Johnson Chandler and William Burbank were
elected elders and were ordained and installed by Rev.
William Chambsrlin. Besides the elderships, the firs
members were : Elmer W. Adams, Henry W. Smith,
Miss Mary Hinckley, Mary Burbank, Wm. P. Burbank,
Hiram Hinckley, Mrs. Sarah Hinckley, John Chandler
Mrs. Mary Chandler, Miss Ellen Tuthill, Miss Elizabeth
Tuthill, Mrs Maria Wall and Oliver K. Clouch. The
ministers have been : Revs, Josiah Woods, 1843-1851 ;
Wm. H. Bird, 1851-1854; Albert Smith, 1855; Josiah
Wood, 1856-7 ; Joseph A. Bent, 1857 ; Thomas Lippincott,
1858-63 ; Josiah Wood, 1863-65 ; Thomas Lippincott, 1865-
67 ; C. F. Hulsey, 1867-(!8 ; Jared M. Stone, D. D., 1871-76.
The name was changed to Old Du Quoin in 1865. This
church never owned a house of worship, but alternated be-
tween the school-house and seminary, until it was dis-
banded by order of the Presbytery of Cairo, by Rev. C. T.
Phillips in August, 1882. The building of the Illinois
Central R. R. drew away the population and with it the
membership of the church from Old to New Du Quoin.
Galum church was organized June 2 •, 1844, at-the house
of James C Kinzey, in Four Mile Prairie, with the following
members: William and Nancy Hamilton, Mary Simzoy,
Jane Brown, Ann Hamilton, Julia Ann Woodside, John
Hamilton, Polly M. Foster, Jai?e Kinzey, Nancy J. Hamil-
ton, Jaraes C Kinzey and William Hamilton.
The first elders were: John Hamilton and William Hamil-
ton. The ministers have been Revs. Cyrus Riggs, B. F.
Spilman, C D. Martin, John Matthews, Daniel Steele, Wil-
liam H. Templeton (who still lives near the church), George
K Perkins, Geo. B. McComb, at two different times, M. M.
Cooper, Jared M. Stone, D.D.. Samuel Ward, and ihe present
supply (1882), Rev. Wm. C. Smith. The congregation own a
comfortable frame church, situated in a dense wood, built
for S600. Its present value is very much less. The con-
gregation is scattered over a good farming country, and
possesses the elements of permanence. The present session
of the church are: A. T. Hughey, J. P. Rial, William B.
Kinzey and Samuel D. Rule. The membership April 1st,
1882, was about sixty-five.
The church at Pinckneyville had a very chequered ca-
reer. It belonged to the New School wing, as did also the
rest, and was first organized by Rev. Josiah Wood, in April,
1851. There were eight members and one elder, Nathaniel
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
267
Weeks. It soon became extiact, and was again organizeJ
in May, 1S6S, but again died. Augu^^t, 1873, Rev. Jared
M. Stone, D D., and Rev. John Huston, re-organized it, or
rather formed a new organization, eon.sistiag of Mrs. C.
BaMridge, Miss Frances Baldridge, Ale.\:auder A. Kimzey,
Mrs. Jane Kimzey, Mrs. M. J. Kelso, Mr. H. M. Brown,
Mrs. Nancy Brown, Mrs. E E. Brown, Mrs. Louisa Opp,
Mrs. Sarah Durringer, Samuel J- Henderson, Mrs. I'eliua
Buchanan, Mr. J. Rusk and Mrs. M. Harbison. The elders
have been, Hugh M Brown, Alex. A. Kimsey, Eph. Hill ;
ministers. Rev. Geo. E. Perkins, Geo. B. McComb, M. M.
C'joper and Geo. B. McComb. Again until 1879 this was
the last stated ministry.
A small house of worship, costing between -SI ><>0 and
81800, was built, but never wholly paid for. It burned in
1881, and since then no attempt has been made to keep the
church alive. There is no present probability of a re-
organization, al'.hough Rev. William C. Smith is on the
ground.
The First Presbyterian church of New Du Quoin was or-
ganized by Rev. Joseph Gordon (^recently deceased), Sept. H,
1856. Alvah I. Sprague, Mary Sprague, Harriet E. Keyes,
Edwin N. Smith, Sarah Smith, Lucius B. Skinner, Geo. S.
Smith, Juliana Smith, Jane Smith and James Hunt were the
first members. With one or two exceptions, they had belonged
to the Old Du Quion church. Geo. S. Smith, the senior mem
ber of the firm of G. S, Smith & Co., merchants and bankers,
was the first elder. Since that time the elders have been Lewis
Dyer (late surgeon U. S. Vols.), Moses H. Ross, Russel
Tuthill, George M. Hinckley, Reuben Berry and Wra. H-
Holmes. The present session are: Geo. S. Smith and Geo.
JI. Hinckley. Tne first pastor was Rev. S. Post, now
of Chicago. Since then the following have ministered at
the times indicated : Rev. Thomas Lippinott, Nov. 1, 18G1_
to May l,48ij2; Yates Hiokey, June 1, 1862, to August 1,
1862 ;' James Slatlord, August 1, 18 \2, to April 1, 1864 ; J-
Jerome Ward, April, 1864, to April, 186-5 ; Joseph D.
Barston, Nov. 26, 1865, to Nov. 26, 1867 ; Josiah Wood,
Nov. 1867, to Miy, 1868; Peter S. Van Nest, D. D., May
1, 1868, to July 23, 1871 ; Edward F. Fish, Nov. 30, 1871,
to Nov. 20, 1878; Charles T. Phillips, Dec. 1, 1878, to the
present (Nov. 1882). The property of church consists of a
frame church, valued at (with contents i 8200 1, and a par-
sonage, the gift of .Mrs. Sarah Root, valued at .52000. About
250 persons have at different times belonged to this church,
of whom 92 remain.
The Tamoroa church was organized May 24, 1857, by
Rev. Elisha Jenney. The first members were: William
Yates, Mrs. Elizabeth Ann Yates, Mrs. Lydia Hudson, J.
M. Simpson, Mrs. Ann E. Simpson; Mrs. Rosemond O.
Blanchard, Miss Mary Ann Vates, Miss Adelaide Simpson.
The elders have been : Oliver A. Holt, Jedediah Lathrop.
Dr. C. M. Hughey, Townsend Blanchard, Hillery S. Patrick,
Joseph W^. Haynes and Providence White. Ministers:
Thomas Lippincott, 18.58-62; Josiah Wood, 1863-67;
Charles F. F. llalsey, 1867-68; M. B. Van Arsdale. 1870-
71; John Huston, 1872, and Robert Rudd from 1.S74 to
the present (September, 1882j. The church is small, but
vigorous, atid deserves great praise for its successful struggle
against many adverse circvmrtances. The congregation
own a very neat frame house of worship, large enough tor
the place. It cost about S2600. The present membership
is about seventy-five.
The Prairie Grove church was situated about midway
between Tamaroa and Pinckneyville. Revs. Hillery Pa-
trick. John Huston, Samuel Ward, Geo. B. McComb and
Robert Rudd have preached there at different times. In
the early part of 1881, Rev. C. T. Philips and Ehler Towns-
end Blanchard visited the church, and finding but seven
members, they were, with the exception of the elder, Mr.
Wagstart", dismissed to the Tamaroa church, and the church
was declared dissolved.
The Denmark church was organized August 30, 1868,
with nine members and one elder, J. L. Collom. It has
never had more than a nominal existence. The last minis-
ter was the Rev. Wm. H. Templeton, of Galum. At last
reports there were eleven members.
THE BAPTISTS (PERRY COUNTY).
RY W. S. D. SMITH.
When Perry county was organized, doubtless, the number
of Baptists within its limits could have been told upon the
fingers of one hand. Indeed we have positive knowledge of
but two, — one of whom is still living at the same spot w here
he located in the year 1825, and from whom we learn these
facts : that he, Enoch Eaton anil his wife Polly, whose
maiden name was Hughs, settled upon the northeast quarter
of section 24, twp. 5 S. R. 4 W., in what was then a part of
Randolph county.
They were both Baptists, having been baptized in Ten-
nessee, their native state. One and a-half miles west of
Bro. Eaton's, at the "Butler Nace farm," lived the only
Baptist who is now known to have had an earlier settlement
in what is now Perry county ; this was a lady, then far ad-
vanced in years, and known as Grandmother Murphy. She
was the wife of John Murphy, and mother of William C
and Richard G. Murphy,— the latter being the father of
Hon. Wm. K. Murphy. She, with her husband, came from
Smith county, Tenn., in 1818. She dieil in the spring of
1827, having lived a very exemplary life.
No organization of the Baptists existed in Perry county,
until June 1829, two years later than the organization of the
county. It is not to be presumed, however, that there was
no manifestation of the religious life of this people. Baptists
preachers passing hrough the country were always met by
an eager congregation of neighbors, summoned together
under the hospitable roof of Bro. Eaton. Here the gospel
was preached by Elder Nathan Arnett, the Lemens of St.
Clair county, and others, prior to the organiz.ition of the
county, and long p'ior to the organization of the Galuin
church in that vicinity. Of other ministers who preached
in this county at an early day may be named Rev. John M.
Peck, W. F. Boyakin, .\tlas Moore, all now deceased, and
1). L. Phillips, afterwards president of the B. and S. il. R.
Company
268
HISTOHY of RANDOLPH, MONROE AND I'ERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
lu the eastern part of the county the first Baptists settled
near Du Quoin. EUler Peter Hagler with his wife, who u
now deceased, located in the Nine Mile Prairie in the spring
of 1829. Others came soon afterward, but none of them
have survived liira. Brethren Eaton and Hagler may,
therefore, be regarded as pioneers. What changes they
have lived to witness can never be fully described
The development of the Baptist family may be traced
by a sketch, more or less extended, of each of the several
church organizations which we find have existed within the
borders of the countv, making some allowance for the fact
that the county lines do not limit the territory of the
churches. This is followed by a sketch of the Nine Mile
Baptist Association, and of some individuals:
THE SINE MILE B.VPTIST CHURCH
This is the name of the first organization of Baptists in
Perry county. Two considerations entitle it to the honor-
able appellation, "The Mother of Churches."
First, its antiquity ; and, secondly, the fact that nearly all
the Baptist churches subsequently organized in Ferry county
•were partly composed of members taken from the Nine Mile,
or were organized of material gathered by the labors of min-
isters belonging to that body. Hence, the history of the
Nine Mile Church is of special interest.
On Saturday before the third Sunday of June, 1829, at a
little log house then standing on the west half, southeast
quarter section 1, twp 6, S. R. 2 W., where lived Peter
Hagler and wife there were gathered together four brethren
and four sisters in the Baptist faith. These were : Abner
Keith, and Sarah his wife ; Van S. Teague, and Rachel his
wife; Peter Hagler, and Frances his wife; Leonard Lipe,
and Francis Jones
Two Baptist ministers, Eli Short, who lived in Short's
prairie, Randolph county, Illinois; and Silas Chrislo, who
lived near Kaskaskia, Illinois, met with this little company
of pioneer Baptists, and the organization was efiected by the
adoption of these eight members, of a church covenant, arti-
cles of faith and rules of order. The name chosen and
adopted was " Nine Mile Prairie'' Church, that being the name
of the post-office, which is now Du Quoin. Peter Hagler was
chosen clerk of the church, and the same year a log house
about eighteen or twenty feet square was built a short dis-
tance frem Hagler's cabin, on what was then " Congress
land," afterward entered by Leonard Lipe, now owned by
Hon. T. T. Fountain.
Here they held meetings monthly, to which the people
would come from distances of five, ten, and fifteen miles.
Peter Hagler was licensed by the church, soon after its or-
ganization, and preached very acceptably to the church and
in the surrounding neighborhoods.
After a time, Elder Robert Moore became the pastor of
the church, and served until 1833, when a serious division
rent the church, which at this time contained about sixty
members, and a number of members who had been received
by letter from churches in Tennessee holding the " Predes-
tinarian " doctriue, withdrew under the leadership of John
S. Haggard, who was then clerk of the church. Prior to
the time of this " split," a process of separation had been
going on in the Baptist churches of Tennesseee and other
States. Those holding the extreme Calvinistic (or, rather,
hyper-Calvinistic) doctrine, which leads toward fatalism
and discourages the employment of human agencies or means
in the work of salvation, could not remain in harmony with
those, who, under the influence of the strong missionary
spirit infused into American Baptists by the conversion to
Baptist views of the missionaries, Judson and Rice, were
impelled to put forth renewed efforts for the spread of the
gospel in heathen lands. This leaven had now reached
southern Illinois, and in a few years the churches were either
divided or carried over to one side or the other, and have
since remained as separate denomination.
While it is true that this radical difference in doctrine
was the real cause of ihe division in the Nine Mile Church,
a minor question was made the pretext for withdrawal ; this
was an alleged irregularity in the reception or approval of
Amos Anderson as a candidate for baptism.
Eleven members of the church, among whom was John S.
Haggard, Matthew and Thomas Jones, voted against his
admission to the church after he had been baptized by the
pastor. Eld. Moore, — and, withdrawing, organized a new
body which still continues as the old Baptist Church of Par-
adise Prairie, and bears the name of "Nine Mile."
As to which of these bodies is better entitled to the original
name, or to be regarded as the main body of the original
Nine Mile Church, opinions may differ, and some impor-
tance might attach to it, were the standing of a Baptist
Church dependent upon " unbroken succession." Without
being a stickler for " ecclesiastical pedigree," we assume
that Ihe body which remained with Eld. Hagler, and which
was distinguished by the descriptive title, " Missionary Bap-
tists and Friends to Humanity," is the church we are en-
deavoring to sketch. (Some facts regarding the other body
may be found further on).
The Nine Mile Church, thus left to the enjoyment of the
same doctrines upon which it was founded, was obliged to
withdraw from the Salem Association, to which it had at-
tached itself, — and, after some years of isolated existence, it
became a member of the Saline Association. Their minis-
ter. Elder Moore, having adhered to the Salem Association
party, they were left without a pastor. A council was ac-
cordingly called to meet at Limestone Church, in Union
county, for the purpose of the ordination of Brother Peter
Hagler as a minister of the gospel. Eld. John Browning,
a member of the Nine Mile Church, residing in Franklin
county; Elder Isaac Herrin of Franklin county; and Elder
Jeremiah Brown of Union county, who in 1828 had bap-
tized Brother Hagler and wife, composed the council ; and
Eld. Hagler, being duly inducted into the ministerial office,
became pastor of the Nine Mile Church.
About 1833 or 1835, the church erected a new house of
logs. 18x24 feet, on the west half of the northeast quarter of
section 25, twp. 5 S. R. 2 W.,at the site of the present
building. This log house afterward had a frame addition,
and the beautiful grove adjacent to the house was annually
brought into requisition as a place for camp meetings, where
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
2G9
immense gatherings of people were accustomed to assemble
in the fall of the year — whole familifs, bringing their teams
and camping outfits, would remain fir days and weeks en-
gaged in the work of the gospel.
Elder Nathan Arnett, of St. Clair county ; Elder T. M.
Vance, of Beuton, 111., and others, here preached the gospel
" in demonstration of the spirit and power," and thirty to
forty conversions and baptisms usually resulted from these
annual camp-meetings. How diflerent the exercises in these
primitive meetings from what may be seen at this day in a
ia.shionable city church would be difhcult to describe.
Of those who were prominently identified with these ear-
lier years of the church's history, besides those already
named, may be mentioned : Eld. J. R. Hutchings, who was
baptized and ordained here, afterwards a member and pastor
of Concord church, and prominent in the civil organization
of the county ; Ehi. Richard G. Davis, afterward pastor of
the Pipe Stone church ; Elder P. W. Jones, now of Allen-
dale, Mo. ; Elder John S. Brown, who, later in life, became
a member of the " Latter Day Saiyts ;" William Thornton
(now deceased), and M. J. Wilks, of Joplin, both of whom
were afterwards ordained as ministers of the gospel ; John
Wilks (deceased), a licentiate of this church; also, William
Staton, Peter Wilks, Jordan Harriss, and his wife Luciuda
Harriss, who survives her husband and is, with perhaps a
single exception, the oldest living member, being about 76
years old, and the mother of a large number of Baptist
children and grand-children, including Elders Johnson C.
Harriss (deceased), J. Carroll Harriss, and Marion Teague
On Friday before the first Sunday in October 1845, min-
isters and messengers or delegates from six other churches
met with the Nine Mile church, and formed a new associa-
tion called the '' Nine Mile Baptist A.-sociation." This
church at that lime had one hundred and two members.
Robert Keller was its clerk. The earlier church records
having been destroyed by fire, statistical information cannot
be given for that period prior to 184-5.
The following is a list of the church clerks since 1845 : —
Nelson Holt, served four years ; John R. Teague (dec'd),
served twenty years ; Pleasant F. Staton (dec'd~), served
seven years ; James W. Lemmon was clerk in 1875, E. M.
Harriss in 1876; Johnson C Harriss, from 1877 to 1881 ;
since which time bis son, Josiah E. Harriss has been clerk.
In 1851, and again in 1863, the Nine Mile Association
held its meetings with this church.
In 1853 thirty two members were dismissed to form the
Paradise Baptist Church.
In 1865 or 1866 the present house of worship, a neat
frame building, about 40x60 feet, was erected at a cost of
81200.
When the necessity for a new building was realized, the
question of a change of location came up. A considerable
proportion of the membership resided in Holt's Prairie, and
an cflbrt was made to locate the new house upon the high
ground east of Panther Creek, on the Pinckneyville and Du
Quoin road ; but the strength of the old associations held
the place of worship at the original site by the old burial-
ground.
With commendable spirit the church soon began to divide
the appointments for preaching, and about half the meet-
ings were held at Holt's Prairie, and the church recognized
the reception of members at these meetings; and in July,
187li, thirty-nine members were dismissed to go into the
organization of the Holt's Prairie Baptist Church. In its
later years the church has enjoyed several revivals. In
1874, in a meeting of seventeen days. Elder J. M. Billings-
ley assisting, thirty were baptized. In October, 1876, nine
were baptized, as the result of a meeting held by Elders J.
Cole and J. Carroll Harriss.
Id Dec. 1877, Brethren Johnson C. Harriss, Marion
Teague, and Elders \Vm. R. McClure, Wm. H. Carner, and
J. Carroll Harriss engaged with the church in a special
eff)rt resulting in thirty-five baptisms.
In Nov. 1879, at a meeting in which Elder W. H. Carner
and Brother Marion Teague were engaged, nineteen were
baptized.
December 2'i, 1877, Eld. Peter Hagler, having served the
church as pastor about forty years, resigned. About two
years afterward, Bro. Marion Teague, who had been in 1877
licensed to preach, was chosen pastor, and on the 3d day of
January, 188U, he was ordained, — the council of ordination
being composed of A. A Kendrick, D. D., Pres't of Shurt-
leff College ; Elders J. Carroll Harriss, J. M. Billingsley,
Peter Hagler and other brethren not ministers.
At the suggestion of the new pastor, the church procured
a library costing §100. Dec. 1881, Eld. J. Carroll Harriss
was elected and is at this time the pastor of the church.
The number of persons who have had membership in this
" Mother of Churches " is very great. No e?timate can be
made of the great amount of good that ha< resulted and will
result from the earnest, selfdenying labors of those who
have served the Lord in and through this organization.
Purity of doctrine has always characterized the church, and
a spirit of benevolence has never been wanting.
THE G.^LU.M BAPTIST CHUKCU.
This body is now in its fortieth year, having been or-
ganized August, 5, 1843, as the " Delum Creek Church of
Christ friends to humanity." The organization took place
at the house of Enoch EatoU: Sr., near Calum creek, on the
Pinckneyville and Sparta road, where the meetings were
held until 1819, when the church building, since enlarged
by an addition made in 1856, was built on the N. W. quarter
of N. E. quarter of sec. 23, tp. 5-5, range 4 W.
The original members were: Samuel Eaton, Elizabeth
Eaton, Barnabas Woolcott, Sarah Woolcott, George Wilson,
Sarah Wilson, John Adair, Rebecca Adair, Lewis Benson,
Rebecca Benson, Alexander Clark, Rutha Clark, En^'h
Eaton, Polly Eaton, Isaac Eaton, Sarah Eaton, Elizabeth
Eaton, Jr. and Elizabeth Rice, of whom Enoch Eaton, Re-
becca Adair and Rebecca Benson are still living.
Elders Peter Hagler and John R. Hutchins were the
council of recognition, and Enoch Eaton was chosen deacon
and his wife deaconess.
The following is a list of pastors and clerks:
Pastors— Elder P. Hagler, from Aug. 1843 to Jan. 1846 ;
270
HISTOHY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Eld. D. Huggins, April 1846 to Sept. 1848 ; Eld. P. W.
Jones. Feb. 1849 to Jan. 18,i0; Eld J. S. Brown, Sept.
1850 to May 18-51 ; Eld. P. W. Jones, May 1851 to April
18-55; Eld. H. S. Dappe. May 185.5 to May 18-56; Eld.
P. W. Jones, Aug. 18 j6 to De\ 18B0; Eld. M. J. Wilks.
March 1800 to April 1861 ; Eld. J. B. Campbell, June
1861 to June 1865; Eld. W. H. Garner, Feb. 1866 to April
1869: Eld. J. C. Wilson, Oct. 1870 to Oct. 1874; Eld. D
Shipraan, Nov. 1874 to Aug. 1875; Eld. J. C. Harris, Jan.
1877 to the present time.
Clerks — Isaac Eaton, elected August o, 184S ; Samuel
Eaton, elected, February, 1848 ; William 'S\. Eaton_
elected October, 18-51 ; Butler Nace, elected April, 1858 .
William Eaton, elected April, 18.59 ; Abel Campbell, elected
June, 1800 ; H. L. Eaton, elected June, 1860 ; W. R.
Eaton, elected July, li^l-i; W. F. Treffizs, elected Septem-
ber, 1881.
This church entertained the annual meeting of the Saline
Association in 1844. The next year it weat into the or-
ganization of the Nine ^liie Association, which body met
with this church in 185;. Bro. J. B. Campbell, now of
Sparta, Illinois, was licensed to preach Oct. 2, 1852. Bro.
Addison Pressley was licensed July 9, 1881. Eld. Heze-
kiah West was in April, 1865, ordained here, by Elders P.
Hagler, P. W. Jones and R. C. Keele.
This church has experienced remarkable seasons of re-
vival and declension. The question of " Masonry " was a
disturbing cause in 1850. Of the numerous revivals pro-
bably none effected a more marked change in the church
than two protracted meetings in the winter of 1877-78,
resulting in seventeen baptisms at each, which with other
accessions during the year, raised the membership about
two hundred per cent.
In recent years the Sunday-school enterprise has received
due atteutioD. Brethren James Knox, W. F. Trefftzs, Ad-
dison Pressley, Daniel Benson, W. R Eaton and H. L.
Eaton serving as superintendents. The church has always
been prompt to meet its financial obligations.
THE SWANWICK BAPTIST CHURCH.
One of the earliest organizations in the county, but now
extinct, was the Swanwick church, which came into exist,
ence in the year 1843, not long after the Galum church.
Its location was in sec. 36, tp. 4 S., range 3 W., near the pre
sent residence of John Kellerman, and not far from the Oak
Grove church. The original members were : Bryant West,
David Huggins and wife, and sister Roach. Elders Wil-
liam Whitchurch and J. H. Mitchell, of St. Clair county,
were the ministry composing the Presbytery.
They were distinguished at first as " Emancipating," or
" Emancipated Baptists," believing in the frceness of the
gospel of salvation. Though averse to the payment of a
stated sum to ministers as salary, they were not " anti-
effort " or " anti-mission "Baptists. They built a meeting-
bouse, and it was duly dedicated. Elder Atlas Moore, of St
Clair county, preaching the sermon. This church was one
of the constituent members of the Nine Mile Association.
David Huggins was at that time its clerk, and J. H.
Mitchell, pastor. Next five years, 1840 to 18-59, David
Huggins was pastor, and William Hutchings clerk. The
membership had grown to about fifty. William Davis was
then elected clerk, and continued to serve as such during
the life of the church. In 1854 P. W. Jones was pastor ;
Elder Huggins succeeded him. In 1857 the church be-
came extinct.
THE FOUR MILE BAPTIST CHURCH.
This church was organized February 19, 1848, at the
house of Jeremiah Walker, in sec. 24, tp. 6, S. R. 3 W., un-
der the name of " The Baptist Church of Christ at Four
Mile Prairie." The constituent members were : Jeremiah
Walker, Martha Walker, Rachel Walker, Richard G.
Murphy, Mary Ann Murphy, James Thompson, Margaret
Thompson, John N. Thompson, Harriet Thompson, Martha
Brown, Alexander Brown, Louisa Brown, Lewis S. Thump-
son, Lucinda Thompson, Hester Denny, Mary Van Winkle,
Elizabeth Arnold, Cyrene Pyatt and Lucinda N. Bourland,
of whom Harriet Thompson, Cyrene Pyatt and Rachel
Walker ( now Kiuzey) are the only ones known to be living.
The presbytery or council was composed of Elders Peter
Hagler and David Huggins and Bro. P. W. Jones, a licen-
tiate. Elder Hagler was the first pastor. Richard G.
Murphy was the first clerk and Jeremiah Walker the first
deacon. Samuel Pyatt was the first member received. He
was chosen clerk and served until 1855. In October, 1848,
the church enjoyed a revival in which fourteen were bap-
tized. The amount collected and paid to the pastor as his
salary for 1848 was $6.75.
The church languished, after 18-50, for five years, when,
in 1855, under the labors of Elder H. S. Deppe, fifteen mem-
bers were added. The salary of the pastor in 1855 was
fixed at S-50, and James G. Brown was chosen clerk. In
January, 1867, Elder M. J. Wilks became pastor, and at a
protracted meetiug held in December 1858, seven members
were received. Then followed the pastorate of Elder Wil-
liam Thornton for nearly two years. From 1860 to 1868
meetings were suspended. From February to September,
1868, Elder P. Hagler again served the church ; 8 were
baptized, and with 2 others added to 10 old members re-en-
rolled, the record of this church of 20 members closes.
THE PIPE STONE BAPTIST CHURCH
Was organized in 1848 at the house of E. T. Rees, near Den-
mark. Besides E. T. Rees and Elvira R,, his wife, the original
members were Independence Jinkins, R. S. Hood and Polly
Ernest, and perhaps others, all deceased so far as we can learn.
It was through the instrumentality of Elder R. G. Davis
that this body was organized. They were a small band. He
was the first pastor, but, losing his health a year or so after-
ward, Elder H. S. Gordon became their pastor.
The church was admitted lo membership in the Nine-Mile
Association in 1849, with a membership of sixteen. Their
pastor. Elder Davis, preached the Associational discourse,
and the church was reported to be in a promising condition,
but upon the accession of Elder Gordon to the pastorate, the
church became "open communion" in faith and practice.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
271
and was accordingly dropped from the fellowship of the As-
sociation at its meeting in I80I.
THE PARADISE BAPTIST CHURCH.
This church was organized September 10, 18.j3, at a meet-
ing held in the barn belonging to Deacon Hosca H. Strait,
in Sec. 20, Tp. 5, S. 11. 1 W.
The original members, thirty-two, in nuniber, were dis-
missed from the Nine-Mile church in a body, for the pur-
pose of forming a church in the Paradise Prairie, which,
prior to that time, had been an out station or arm of said
church.
Miner J. Wilk,,* Eliza A. Wilks, H. II. Strait, Nancy
M. Strait,* R. C. T. Keller,* Eleanor Keller,* Henry F.
Hamplemau, Minerva Hampleman,* William Gee,* Malinda
Gee,* H. J. Sulser,* Margaret Sulser, James A. Jones,*
Sarah Jones, George Martin, William Thornton, J. T. R.
Thornton, L. C. Braraley," JIary J. Bramley,* Samuel T.
Etherton, Rebecca Etherton, Daniel Gunn, Nancy Gunn,*
Elizabeth Teel,* Charles E. R. Winlhrop,* Dcliah Win-
throp,* B. H. Keller,'- Mary J. Keller,* B. D. Kelley. Nancy
W. Kelley, Rose A Robinson,* Isabella Galloway. Of
these R. C. T. Keller, Eleanor Keller, Nancy Strait, ' now
Lowraan) Minerva Hampleman, and Elizabeth Teel, .-till
iiave their membership in the bddy.
In lf<5i a good frame building was erected at the S. W.
corner of the S. E. \ of S. W. J, Sec. 14, Tp. .'., S. R. 1 W ,
of 3d P. M. at a cost of 81,500.
Hosea H. Strait and Benjamin D. Kelley were the first
deacons. They were " «orthy of double honor," and have
gone to their reward. William Gee was the tirst clerk, and
was succeeded by R. C. T. Keller, R. A. Hampleman. A.
Zwahleu and James W. Lenmion, the present clerk. El
der P. H»gler was the first pastor, serving two years. Elder
P. W. Jones, served one ye:ir. The subsei|uent pastors
were Elders M J. Wilks, William Tlioruton, Wra. II.
Career, A. Rice, P. Hagler, J. Carroll Harriss, Marion
Teague and J. II. Thornton, [jresent incumbent. Fre-
quently two of these pastors served together as joint-pastors.
If Nine-Mile church can be called the mother of churches.
Paradise is entitled to be called the mother of Baptists, as
the number baptized here will average above one each mouth
during the entire period the church has been in existence.
Besides the brethren named above as pastors. Elders John
M. Billingsley, John A. Rodman and H. S. Deppe have ren-
dered valuable aid in protracted meetings.
This chiirch has also sent out a goodly number uf minis-
ters asthefjllowing list will show: Miner J. Wilks and Wil-
liam Thornton, licensed October, 18.")4. ordained November
13,1856; Wm. H. Carner, licensed June, 1861, ordained
December 4, 1864; W. Sanford Gee, licensed February,
1869, ordained May 14, 1871 ; J. Carroll Harriss, licensed
February, 1876, ordaiued July 8, 1M76 ; Joseph II. Tlidrii-
ton, ordained July 8, 1876
This church, early in 1854, extended its influence in the
establishment of an out post or station at Horse Prairie, in
Franklin county, which was supplied with preaching, and
recognized as an "arm" of thechurch until a separate church
• (Those marked • pre "till Hvinz.l
was organized therein 1856. Paradise church became a
member of the NineMile Association in 18.53, and that body
met with this church in the year 18.55, 1865, 1871 and 1878.
Of the early member.- of this church several have finished
their course. Deacon H. H. Strait, died March 15, l''<56,
aged 43. He left a brlL'lit example.
Deacon H. F. Hampleman, died October 8, 1876, aged 62
years. He filled the otlice of County Judge, of Perry county,
as did also H. H. Strait and C. E. R. AVinthrop
Elder William Thornton, after a brief but useful life in
the ministry, died April 21 ^ 1866, leaving his mantle to his
foil, the present pastor.
Tin: lit' 'iCOIS BAPTI.ST CHURCH.
On the oOth day of May, 1857, when the present city of
Du Quoin was a mere village, fourteen Baptists, seven
brethren and seven sisters, were gathered together, and
uniting in covenant relations with each other, were recog-
nized as the First Baptist Church of Du (,)uoin. The council
of reco::iiiti()n was composed of Rev. S. H. Bundy, then editor
of the JI!iiio!s ll'ijjtiH, publi.rhed at Benton, Elders P. Hag-
ler and P. W. Jones. Toe following are the names nf the
original members: Rev Hamilton Sampson, Desire .'^amp-
son. Deacon Jloses Winters, Ann S. Winters, John A. Wil-
liams, Mary Jane Williams, John D. Perry, ilary j\l. Perry,
Edmund Lipe, Moses C. Winters, Asenath A. Winters,
Drusilla A. Winters, Christiana C. Winters and Edwin
Sampson. By reason of removals and deaths, none of these
are now members of this church, it being the only Baptist
church in the ei>unty that has survived all its constituent
mend)ers. Rev. H. Sampson was installed as pastor of the
church. Moses Winters was recognized as Deacon, and
John A. Williams was chosen clerk.
The first person baptized was sister .Malinda Burke. In
April, 1.S5'*, Rev. E. Jaynes was chosen pastor, and the
church was enrolled as a member of the Nine Mile Associa-
tion. In March, l'S5!), a council was called, and Bro. W. C.
F. Hempstt^ad, a member of the church, was ordained to the
ministry. Elders II Jaynes, Peter Hagler, E. Hempstead
and Martin, with other brethren, composed the
council. Elder Hempstead then became the pastor of the
church, to serve one half the time, at a salary of 8200. The
church, however, was unable to sustain him, and were
besides without a house in which to worship, using the vil-
lage school house and other placts until November, 1861,
when they secured the use of the Presbyterian church for a
time, and engaged Rev. H. H. Hatl'as pastor for six months,
one-half the time, for 880. The services of Elder Hatt' con-
tinued and the church gained some strength, and many con-
sultations were had and eflbrts made to build a house. On
May 12, 1800, Bro. John A. W'lliams was licensed to
pnacli. In November, 18(53, Rev. R. S. Johnson became
pa>tnr.:uid the tide of general prosperity enabled thechurch
to undertake and successfully prosecute the enterprise of
erecting the present house of worship, which is a substantial
structure of brick, lOxC'ti feet, located near the southwest
corner of the i)ublic park, almost in the heart of the city.
Its cost was between 85,000 and 86,000. The building, when
272
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
completed, was one of the finest in southern Illinois, and
was dedicated March 26, 1865. Rev. J. G. Johnson, now
of Philadelphia, preached the dedicatory discourse. On the
1st of April fourteen members were received from the Eben-
ezer Baptist Church, among whom were Elder Josiah Lemen,
an ordained minister, and W. S. D. Smith, a licentiate.
Elder Johnson's pastorate closed in December, 1865, and he
was succeeded by Elder Jacob Cole, now of Champaign, 111.,
who served one year, when Elder D. P. French became
pastor, and served until October, 1866. In December of
that year the Rev. F. Hill was called to the care of the
church, and served one year. Elder D. P. French then
served the church again as pastor for about two years, during
which time the indebtedness for church building was
discharged.
In March, 1872, Rev. L. M. Whiting was chosen pastor-
salary $700. He served nearly two years, during which
time the church enjoyed some prosperity, but was also
entangled in some ditficulties. Feb. 5, 1874, Rev. Demas
L. Clouse, now in Iowa, became pastor and served a little
more than a year.
Sept 5, 1874, Elder E. C H. Willougliby, who had for-
merly been a Baptist minister, but had become connected
wiih the " Christian Chureh," was, by the action of this
church, restored to fellowship as a Baptist. He succeeded
Elder Clouse, as pastor of the church, and served about two
years. August 15, 1878, the venerable Rev. Erastus Ad-
kins, D D., now, as formerly, a resident of Ohio, was settled
as pastor, the church being aided in his support by the Home
Mission Society. From Juue to October, 1879, the pulpit
was supplied by Bro. Thomas S. Bovell, then a student at
Shurtleff College. From October, 1880, to October, 1881,
Rev. Marion Teague served as pastor, preaching only a part
of the time. In October, 1881, Rev. John Powell, of Belle-
ville, began his present pastorate, which so far has been
quite successful.
This church has always been weak financially— has had
many hindrances -is probably enjoying as much real pros-
perity now as at any time in the past. Situated in a town
of from 2,000 to 3,000 inhabitants, where every grade of
society is to be found, and in the midst of all the " isms" of
the present age, the little handful of faithful brethren have
held the ground and contended for " the faith." Liberal
contributions have from time to time been made by the
members of the Du Quoin church to the American Baptist
Home Mission Society, American Baptist Publication Society^
for Foreign Missions and the support of Baptist colleges.
The following are the names of the difl^erent clerks of said
church: John A. Williams (now an ordained minister),
James W. Winters, Samuel E. Evans, T. C. Watkins, H. S.
Lemen, J. B. Kelly, Friend Smith and Charles F. Linzee.
S. E. Evans is the present clerk.
Deacons D. Harley and George S. Smith, Sister Margaret
Winters and her son, James W. Winters, are also worthy of
mention as pillars of the church ; the two last named are
now the only members who have been with the church
throughout its entire history, and they have always been
among its chief supporters.
The Pinekneyville Baptist Church. — Appears to have
been the name of a shortlived organization which seems to
have formed a sort of connecting link between the old
"Swanwick" church and the present churches of "Oak
Grove" and " Pinekneyville." On the 31st day of Decem-
ber, 1857, Elders Peter Hagler and Hamilton Sampson
being present at aPresbytery or council of recognition, the
following named Baptists of Pinekneyville and vicinity, viz. :
William Davis and Sarah Davis his wife, George Baxter,
Charles Song, Thomas Thompson, James F. Mason, Lucy
Ann Gordon and Sarah Helvey were united together in
church relation.
Elder Sampson was chosen pastor and Brother William
Davis, clerk. The church was admitted to the Nine-Mile
Accociation in 1858.
One or two members were smbsequently received by letter.
Elder P. W. Jones appears to have been the pastor from
September, 1858 until August, 1859, when the record closed.
George Baxter died October, 1867. William Davis and
wife went into the organization of the Oak Grove church
while James F. Mason, Charles Song (now deceased) and
Lucy A. Gordon (now Malone) were constituent members
of what is now called the " First Baptist church of Pinekney-
ville."
Doubtless this feeble organization served its purpose
though no imposing array of statistics can be brought
forward to its credit. The record of one of its meetings is
in these words: "Saturday before the second Lord's day in
April, 1859, three members met and had prayer." It
would be interesting to know what petitions went up from
that little circle and in what manner the promise was fulfilled
to the "two or three" thus gathered together in the name
of the Lord.
The Ehmezer Bupiist Church— l^ie: Ebenezer Baptist
church was organized on the 16th day of- June, 1860. At
the school house, in district Number 5, Tp. 6, S. R. 1, W.,
about two miles east of Du Quoin, by the following named
bretheru and sisters entering into covenant relations, viz. :
Elders Josiah Lemen, Martha Lemen, David McCollum,
Mary McCollum, Mary Cole, Jesse McCollum and Melissa
McCollum, of whom the two last named are still living.
Elders Josiah Lemen and W. C. F. Hempstead were the
Presbytery and Elder Hempstead was cho?en pastor the first
year. Elder P. W. Jones then served one year followed by
Elder Josiah Lemen, about two years, when Elder P. Hagler
was chosen and served one year.
The whole number baptized into the fellowship of the
church was thirty. In 1860, it was received into the fellow-
ship of the Nine-Mile Association. October od, 1863, the
church granted to brother W. S.D. Smith a license to preach.
The church was considerably diminished by the withdrawal
on the 18th day of March, 1865, of a large number of its
members who desired to unite with the church in Du Quoin,
consequently, at the next meeting the church voted to
dissolve its organization. Some of the members going into
the Du Quoin church and others to Paradise church.
It would seem that the organization of this body at a point
so near a church already established iu the thriving village
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
273
of Du Quoin was a mistake, but doubtless it served a tem-
porary purpose for good. David McCoUum died while a
member of his church in 186:?.
The Tnmaron lidjitist Church. — Was constitued January
12, 18.59, by the following named brethren and sisters enter-
ing into covennnt relations with each other as a gospel
church. Elder P. Hagler, being the officiating minister,
viz.: Nelson Holt, Harriet A. Eaton, E. G. Bell, John B.
Kelly, John W. Staton, Alonzo Etherton, Lazarus Eaton,
Martha Tyrrel, Elizabeth Bell, Martha Roots, Rhoda A.
Barker, Martha A. Bell, Elizabeth Kelley, Eliza A. Staton,
Lovisa Etherton, Lydia Eaton, Barthana Bell, Elizabeth
Davis, Alfred Turman, Charles Kellogg and f^dmond Bar-
ker. Only the two first namsd are members at this time.
Soon after its organization the church received a consider-
able number of members by letter and was enrolled a
member of the Nine-Mile Asssociation in 1859. Elder P-
Hagler was the first pastor and served about two years.
Some service was rendered the cliurch from September 18(52
to January 18(14 by Elder Negus, after which the church
was destitute of a pastor until July 180(5 when brother A.
L. Wilkinson, a young man, a licentiate, from Ann Arbor,
Michigan, became their pastor. He served the church for
about a year, being ordained at a meeting of the Niue-Mile
Association at Du Quoin in October, 18(>(i. He is now
pastor of the First Baptist church of Springfield, Ohio.
For the first ten years of its existance the church seems to
have made but little progress. Being without a house of
worship the meetings were held in the ^[ethodist church
until November, 1^(10, when the school house was secured,
the church putting in the seats for the use of the house. In
April, L'^(i!> the church again began holding its meetings in
the Methodist church, and had the services of Rev. I. S.
Mahan for nearly two years and enjoyed some prosperity.
Eight were baptized in March, 1870.
At the close of that year a new and commodious house of
worship having been erected, Elder L C. Carr was chosen
pastor. The church was dedicated January 26, 1871. Rev.
S. F. Holt, of Decatur, preaching the sermon. The cost of
the building was about S:5,oOO, a frame building, size 32x48
feet, with gallery and a good bell. Rev. S. C. Carr was
pastor until is":!. Rev. Jonas Woodward served as pastor
from June, 1873 until November, 187.5, and his labors ap-
pear to have been very profitable to the church until
declining health brought them to a close.
In December, 1877, Rev. D. P. French began to serve the
church, and continued to do so until the summer of 1880;
but was not able li preach often, on account of his duties as
general missionary calling him elsewhere. His membership
is still with the church. Elder J. H.Thornton was assistant
pastor for three months in 1880. In April 1>*81, the present
pastor Elder Marion Teague entered upon his duties and the
work seems to be prospering in his hands.
The Grand Cote Bapli.-^t Chun-h. — At a meeting held for
that purpose in a grove of timber in the east end of the
Grand Cole Prairie, where the church building now stands,
the following named brethern and sisters of the Baptist
"persuasion" were on Saturday before the fourth Sabbath
35
in September, 1861, united together as a church, to wit :
Joel F. Deason and wife, E D. Rountree and wife, John
W. Rushing and wife, John C. Wilson and wife, Joel Rush-
ing, Nancy Rushing, Levina Haile, Sarab Wells, Martha
J. Ragland and Francis J. Huggins. Elders M. J. Wilks,
William Thornton, P. W. Jones, John A. Williams and W.
W. Hutchings composed the council. E. D. Rountree was
chosen clerk and J. F. Deason and J. W. Rushing deacons.
The next vear a house was built costing about $350.
The church has generally been supplied with preaching
once a month at a cost of about $40 per year.
Elders M. J Wilks, William Thornton, D. Huggins, W.
Sanford Gee, Alex. Rice, J. K. P. Ragland and D. H.
Thornton have successively served as pastors. Elders Hag-
ler, Billingsley, Wilson Harriss and W. Wright have at
various times rendered service in special m'eetings.
The church has always been small in number of members
and only for a short period has it maintained a Sunday
school. Some members have been lost by removal, and on
the 10th day of July, 1878, Bro. Joel Rushing was removed
by the hand of death ; his age was 78 years. Only three
male members remain. The church has been a member
of the Nine Mile Association since 1861. J. W. Rushing is
clerk and Elder J. H. Thornton pastor. Present member-
ship twenty-two.
Beaucoup Baplki Church.— On the fourth Saturday in
September, 1863, at a meeting held at the Round Prairie
school house, a church of twenty-five meml)ers was organized.
Elders David Huggins, A. Rice, W. W. Hutchings and
W. H. McElhanon were present and recognized the organi-
zation. Elder W. W. Hutchings was chosen pastor and
Thomas J Rice clerk. Afterward Elder A. Rice served as
pastor for one year, and in 18(>.) (or about that date) the
church dissolved.
It was admitted to the Nine Mile Association in 1863.
After disbamling the members attached themselves to Con-
cord Mud Prairie and other churches.
The Oak Grove Baptid Church. — Situated about two miles
north of Pinckneyville, this church was constituted princi-
pally of those who had survived the Swanwick church and
the earlier Pinckneyville church At a meeting held in the
school house in District No. •>, Tp. 5 S. R. 3 W. on the 5th
day of March, 18(>4, the following named persons affixed
their names to a church covenant in the usual form in the
presence of Elders W. W. Hutcl-.ings and P. W. Jones, and
agreeing to accept the Bible as their rule of faith and prac-
tice as a church, were recognized as an independent ecclesi-
astical body with the name of the " Oak Grove Baptist
Church," to wit: William Davis and Sarah Davis, his wife
Enoch Taylor and Nancy J. Taylor, bis wife, William H'
Smith and Margaret J. Smith, his wife, John li Richmond,
Judith K. Preswood, Amy M. Keen, Louisa McClurkin and
Phebe Hill. The church elected Bro. William H. Smith
clerk and Bro. John C Wilson (then a licentiate) pastor. The
next year he was ordained by a Presbytery consisting of
Elders D. Huggins and E. M. Brown, and in August, 1865,
he was succeeded in the pastorate by Elder William Thorn,
ton, who served until May, 1866, when Elder A. Rice be-
274
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
came pastor. Elder Jesse Farmer served as pastor during
18U7; Elder M. J. Wi Iks from January, 1868, to Septem-
ber, 1869 ; Elder A. Rice again served as pastor until De-
cember, 1870, when Elder J. C. Wilson again took charge
of the church, and served until October, 1872. Elder D.
Huggins then served the church until March, 1876, when he
was succeeded by Elder A. Rice, the present pastor. Like
many other country churches. Oak Grove has generally had
services only once per month, and only occasionally has
any effort been made to sustain a Sunday school. Numer-
ous protracted meetings however have been held and a con-
siderable number have professed religion and been baptized
under the special efforts of the pastors aided by other min-
isters. Besides those whose names are given above. Elder
S. A. Martin aided the church in special meetings. Usually
from ten to seventeen new members have been the result of
a protracted meeting in this church, but the church has
never been strong financially and the want of sufficient reli-
gious instruction seems to have been a great hindrance.
Exclusions and restorations have been remarkably numerous.
In June, 1878, Bro. James K. P. Eayland was licensed to
preach, and on the day of May, 1880, he was ordained by
a presbytery composed of Elders J. C Wilson, A. Rice, W.
A. Jarrel and S. A. Martin. The oldest member of this
church is the venerable Deacon William Davis, born in
Washington county, Virginia, in 1802. This is one of the
few Baptist churches in this county which observes the
"washing of feet" as a ceremonial in the church. Oak
Grove church was received into the Nine Mile Association
in 1864. Their present house of worship is a substantial
building of hewed logs. Bro. John S. Davis is the present
clerk. Elder W. A. Jarrel was a member of this church for
a short time after withdrawing from the church at Pinck-
neyville.
The PinckneyviUe Baptist Church — The " First Baptist
Church of PinckneyviUe," as it is now called, was organized
July 30, 1865, under the name of the "PinckneyviUe Bap-
tist Church," the former organization of that name having
become extinct. Elders P. W Jones, of this county, and
Joseph G. Rutter, of Perry county, Missouri, assisted in the
organization. The original members were A. B. Hogard,
an ordained minister, and Ellen J. Hogard, his wife, Richard
M Davis, and Catharine O. Davis, his wife. Deacon Charles
Song, James F. Mason, Lucy A. Malone, Louisa Denny
and Parthenia Church. Bro. R. M. Davis was the first
clerk and served until 1868. Elder P. W. Jones was chosen
pastor, and continued to visit the church " once a month "
for two years and three months, during which time sixty-six
persons were baptized and the membership otherwise in.
creased to ninety-three. In October, 1865, the church was
admitted to the Nine Mile Association. In February, 1866,
a Sunday School was organized, which continues to the pre-
sent time a means of incalculable good to the church. In
December, 1866, Bro. R. M. Davis was licensed to preach.
In December, 1867, having chosen Rev. JohnH. Mize, now
of Hastings, Nebraska, as pastor, and secured aid from the
Home Mission Society for his support, the building enterprise
was begun in earnest, and on the 27th day of August, 1868,
the present church building was dedicated. Rev. Dar-iel
Read, D. D., then President of Shurtleff College preached a
discourse on the occasion. The house is a substantial brick
structure 32x52 feet, with gothic windows — three on each
side, a gallery and vestibules — spire about 50 feet high, with
a good bell. Total cost about S3300. At the first meeting
in this house, Bro John W. Primm, now pastor of the Bap-
tist church at Lincoln, 111., was licensed to preach. In
October, 1869, the Nine Mile Association met with this
church. Elder Mize closed his pastorate in May, 1870,
having baptized thirty persons, and leaving the church with
a membership of one hundred and thirteen. Rev. L. C.
Carr, who recently died in Florida, was the next pastor:
served the church from January to August, 1871, leaving it
with 103 members. For the next seven months the church
had no pastor, but enjoyed the labors of Rev. J. M. Billings-
ley in a protracted meeting. Twenty-three persons were
baptized. Rev. William H. Garner, now of McLeansboro,
111., was the next pastor from March, 1872, to near the close
of 1873. This was a very stormy period in the history of
the church. Bro. J. L. Primm was clerk of the church
from October, 1868, to September, 1872, when Bro. W. S.
D. Smith, the present clerk, succeeded him. January 17,
1874, Bro. Joseph H. Thornton was licensed to preach. The
church about this time discharged the remainder of its
building debt. From March to October, 1S74, Rev. D.
Matlock, now deceased, was pastor. From April to Octcber
1875, Elder David Huggins visited the church once a month,
From January, 1876, to July, 1877, Elder E. C. H. Wil-
loughby was pastor. October, 1877, the Nine Jlile Asoocia-
tion again met with this church. The introductory sermon
was preached by Rev. J. Carroll Harriss, a former member
of this body. Bro. Harriss with Elder J. M. Bennett
assisted the church in a series of meetings following the Asso-
ciation and nine were baptized. Bro. Harriss then became
pastor, preaching once a month for about a year: In Janu
ary, 1879, Elder D. P. French held a series of meetings with
the church. The membership now numbered ninety-seven
and seemed to be united and prosperous. Elder W. A. Jar-
rel, now of Texas, became pastor March 1, 1879, and by the
close of his year'sservice the church was in great confusion.
The views and methods of the pastor were opposed by several
of the leading members, and a faction seeking to continue
him in the pastorate, or have the church " endorse " him, A
bitter contest was the result, and the " pastor party ' to the
number of twenty-eight withdrew, since which time the
church has had no pastor, but has enjoyed a good degree of
peace and prosperity. Total number who have been mem-
bers of this church 255; total baptisms 165.
THE FRIENDSHIP BAPTIST CHURCH
Was organized in 1867 through the labors of Elder P.
W. Jones, aided by Elder J. C. Wilson. The original mem-
bers were Michael Goos and wife, Jacob Nawart and wife
Solomon Thompson and wife. Smith C. Moore and wife,
David L. Benson and wife, Baker and wife, Mar-
garet Statou, Julia Staton, Eliza Miller.
This enterprise encountered a little opposition from some
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
275
of the neighboring Baptists, who thought a new organization
in the bounds of ciiurches already established would be de-
trimental.
The church was, however, recognized and admitted to the
Niue-MileAsfociation iu October, 1^07.
Elder P. W. Jones was pas or of the church from its or-
ganization until he removed from the State in 1869. Ekler
W. H. Garner was then chosen pastor, but did not serve as
such.
About the close of 1869, the church engaged a young min-
ister from Tennessee, whose name was Geo. W. Pricket. In
about six months they were led away from the ground oc-
cupied by Baptists, receiving into their fellowship some mem-
bers of the "Christian " order.
Accordingly, at the meeting of the Association, in 1870,
the church was dropped for heresy, and a resolution adopted
declaring non-fellow hip with George W. Pricitet, as a Bap-
tist raiiiistcr, and recognizing Brother S. C. Moore, as hav-
ing stood firm in the faith on which the Friendship church
was first organized Thus the cliurch passed out from the
ranks of the Baptist-brotherhood, and has since stood as a
Christian or "Carapbellile" body.
D. L. Benson was the first clerk, and S. C. Moore was
clerk at the time of the separation. He died June 24, 1876.
THE HOLTS PRAIRIE B.iPTIST CHURCH.
As early as 1835, Elder Peter Hagler, then pastor of the
Nine Mile Baptfst church, held occasional meetings in Holt's
Prairie, preaching at the house of Jordan Harriss, one of
the members of the Nine Mile church, and at the school-
house, in the lower end of the prairie. Subsequently Elders
P. W. Jones, William Thornton, and M. J. Wilks, preached
in this neighborhood, the latter having regular raonliily ap-
pointments for some lime. It was regarded as an out station
of the Nine Mile church, and in 1871, Fielder J. M. Billlngs-
ley held a series of meetings in E. M. Harriss' barn, result-
ing in many conversions, and by the consent of the Nine
Mile church, the applicants for membership here were ap-
proved by the brethren residing in Holt's Prairie, and bap-
tised and recognized as members of the Nine Mile church.
To supply this portion of the church with preaching, the
pastor visited them regularly, and the necessity for a house
of worship being apparent, a good frame building 3().x4() feet
was erected on the S. \V. qr. of the S. W. qr. of Sec. 21, Tp.
5, S R 2 W., and paid for largely through the instrumen-
tality of Brother Jefferson Thornberry, now deceased.
The council of recognization, consisting of Elder P. Hag-
ler and William Malone, of Nine Mile church ; J. L. Priram,
J. Carroll Harriss, and S. Ballard, of Pinckneyville church ;
Richard Wilks, of Paradise church, and Lindsey Benedict,
of Concord church. Elder P. Hagler was chcsen pastor, and
served until December, 1872, when Elder Wm. H. Carner
was elected and served six consecutive years. Elder J. Car-
roll Harriss, then served three years, when the present pas-
tor, Elder John A Rodman, was chosen.
John H. Harriss has been clerk of the church from the
beginning.
This church has been remarkably successful, has encoun-
tered few obstacles, and now rank^ as one of thestrrngjst
churches of the Nine Mile Association in which body it took
membership iu 1872.
THE NINE MILE BiPTIST ASSOCI.iTION.
Baptists recognize the local church as the only ecclesi-
astical organization divinely instituted. They hold it to be
absolutely independent, and clothed with plenary authority
for the administration of Scriptural discipline to its mem-
bers, and in no wav connecteJ with, or dependent upon, the
system of civil government adopted by the state.
The local bodies, however, for the promotion of their
mutual interests and to facilitate the complete observance of
that command, " Preach the gospel to every creature," have
have f(;und it expedieut to hold annual meetings for con-
sultation and concert of action.
This annual meeting is called an " Association," and is
composed of ministi^rs and delegates appointed by the church-
es, but has no legislative or judicial authority. The " Nine
Mile Baptist Association," which includes all the churches of
Perry county, excepting those calling themselves the "Old
Baptists" and the churches of colored people, was organized
October 4, 184.1, at a meeting held at the Nine Mile Church,
from which it takes its name. Elder D. S Crain, modera-
tor of the Saline Association, presided at this meeting, in
which Elder Ignatius O' Daniel and D. Bijgs of Clear Creek
Association participated. Elder J. R. Hutchings was clerk
of the meeting. Seven churches, among which were Nine
Mile, Swanwick Creek, and Delum (Galum) of Perry coun-
ty, went into the organization, and Elder P. Hagler was
chosen moderator, J. R. Hutchings clerk, and Pendleton W-
Jones treasurer.
A constitution and rules of order were adopted, and the
following resolutions parsed:
Remlvfd, That we advise the churches to patronize and
sustain the Baptist Publication Society, by their purchases,
contributions, and prayers so far as they can.
Resolved, That we recommend the churches to use nil pes.
sible eflvirts to get up and sustain well managed Sabbath
schools in their immediate vicinities.
Resolced, That we recommend and advise both members
anil ministers of our churches to sustain the temperance
pledge, and that thoy exert their influence in the suppression
of the use of intoxicating drinks as a beverage.
Also resolutions recommending settled pastors supported,
so far as possible by the churches, and the holding by each
church of at least one protracted meeting each year. From
that time to the pres9nt the minutes of the annual meeting
of the Nine Mile Association "bristle" with advisory resolu-
tions concerning secret and family prayer, Sabbath schools,
temperance, support of the ministry, home and foreign mis-
sions, ministerial education, Baptist publications, denomina-
tional schools and colleges, and everything else which might
claim the attention of the churches, but never dictating to
the churches nor prescribing any tests of fellowship. Occa-
sional difficulties between churches or ministers have beeo
made the subjects of investigation and advice, and every
departure from the doctrines held by Baptists has been
276
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
jjidiuptly nitt by cH'oits to correct erroneous views, or by
dropping from membership any church embracing or toler-
ating heresy. Kume ministers and members of churches,
and in a few instances, whole churches have lapsed into
"Canipbellism," "open communion," and the like, but no
considerable dis-turbance seems to result. The churches of
this Association are (perhaps without exception) organized
upon the articles of belief known as the "New Hampshire
Confession of Faith."
Among the instances of departure from the faith may be
mentioned Elder H. S. Gordon, who, wiih Pipe Stone and
Looney's S])ring churches, in 18.50 wcLtover to the Free Will
Baptists ; Elder H. C. Hodges and a part of the Kingcade
church, who, in 1852, went into Canipbellism ; Elder G. W.
Pricket and the Friendship church (except Brother S. C-
Moore) in 1809 did likewise; Elder John S. Brown became
a "Latter Day Saint." Others, becoming engro.ssed with the
cares of secular pursuits, have become unfruitful, but a kind
Providence constantly fills the ranks.
Among the questions presented to the Association for dis-
cussion at its meeting in 1850 was that of secret societies.
The Association advised the churches " to occupy the ground
of non-interference." The churches were at that time recom-
mended to patronize Sabbath schools, "on the union plan."
Later the advice was for each church, when of sutBcient
ability, to maintain its own school, and in 1879 a resolution
recommending the churches to have nothing whatever to do
with the state and county (union) S. S. conventions, was
passed, but such was not the sentiment of the churches. In
1850 the Association sent delegates to a missionary meeting
at Bethel church in Madison county. 111., with instructions
to "oppose the project of the American Bible Union to
translate and circulate a new version of the Scriptures."
At its last meeting the members voted to endorse the
"prohibition" movement.
In its missionary work the Association has been in har_
raony with the great denominational enterprises of Ameri.
can Baptists, but in the cultivation of the home field it has
resorted to co-operation with local organizations; in 1851
with the Nine Mile Domestic Mission Society, the next year
with the Baptist Convention of Southern Illinois, but since
1857 with the Baptist General Association of Illinois, which
was organized in 1845, sometimes having its own executive
board of missions to direct and aid in the work. Elder J.
Carroll Harris is the Association's home missionary.
At various times in the past thirty years Ministers' and
Deacons' Conferences, and local Sunday School Conventions
have been established. An organization for Sunday school
work is now fully organized in connection with the Associa-
tion and with the Baptist State Sunday School Association
Bro. W. S. D Smith is at the head of this department, with
J. L Primra, jr., assistant for Perry county.
Evidently considerable progress has been made by the
Baptists of P^rry county. The time has passed by when
the entire burden of church work was left to be borne by
the ministry. Not only are these public servants belter sus-
tained in their work, but the various departments of Chris-
tian labor are now filled with active brethren and sisters,
whose influence is everywhere manifest. The utility of the
Association as an organization adapted to promote the gen-
eral prosperity and unity of the churches cannot be ques-
tioned. Sixteen of the thirty-eight annual meetings of the
Nine Mile Association have been held iu Perry county.
To this sketch of the churches and the Association should
be added some reference to the biography of individual
Baptists.
As in secular, so in religious matters, the destiny of an
organization is determined by the character and acts of its
individual members, as well as by the constitution or creed
upon which it is based. Foremost among the pioneer
Baptists of Perry county, stands
Elder Peter Hagler, the only surviving member of the
little band who first constituted the Nine Mile Baptist
church. His history has largely been written in the annals
of the churches, but a few additional facts will here be set
down. Born iu Montgomery county. North Carolina, Sep-
tember 1, 1806, he was brought up in the hard labor of a
farmer's boy, and limited to few opportunities of education.
At the age of thirteen settled in Jackson county, Illinois ;
married at the age of twenty, to Francis Keith, daughter of
Abner Keith. Eight years afterward he and his wife pro-
fessed faith in Christ, and were baptized by Eld. Jeremiah
Brown, and united with Ridge church, in Union county, 111.
In the spring of 1829 he settled in Perry county, where he
has since resided.
He was licensed by the Nine JNIile church to preach the
Gospel, and some years later ordained at Limestone church,
in Union county. Eld. Jeremiah Brown preached the or-
dination sermon.
With his Bible and hymn book, and a pocket concord-
ance, and a heart consecrated to the work of winning the
souls of his fellow-men from the ruinous ways of sin, this
earnest and devoted servant of God breasted the storms
and endured the heat for Christ's sake. In the first thirty
years of his ministry he did not miss on an average more
than one of his appointments each year, though the dis-
tances to some of them were thirty miles or more. It is
estimated that three thousand persons have been baptized
by him. Besides being instrumental in the conversion of
so many souls and their reception into the churches, he
has assisted in the organization of many churches, the
ordination of about twenty ministers, and served as mod-
erator of the Saline and Nine Mile Associations a great
many years. His wife, with whom he had lived for half
a century, died January 9, 1877. They never had any
children, but had raised seven orphans. He is now spend-
ing the evening of his life at Du Quohi, 111., with his second
companion, the late Mrs. Isabella Hawkins, whom he
married November 11, 1877. He was present at the thirty-
eighth annual meeting of the Nine Mile Association at
Tamaroa October 6, 18.S2.
Eld. Pendleton W. Jones, for many years a co-laborer
with Eliler Hagler, was born in Bedford county, Tennessee,
February 16, 1815; settled in Perry county in the fall of
1.S29; married Rachel Keith, December 11, 1839.
He and his wife werre baptized at the same time in the
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
277
fall of 1841. October, 1847, he was licensed to preach, ami
in October, 184S, he was ordained, by a presbytery com-
posed of Elds. T. J!. Vance aud Kathan Aruett. He was
a successful j)astor, serving as such at Galum, Paradise^
Piiickntjville, Fritud.-hip and other churches, and never
had a church ditliculty. He, with Eld. Hagler, endured
many hardships iu the early years of Perry county, swim-
ming swollen streams, and overcoming other obstacles in
their mission, among which was the making of support for
their families by farm labor. They were at that day per-
sonally acquainted with every man iu the C6unty. Bro.
Jones is now pastor of the Baptist church at Allendale,
Missouri.
Eld. Richard G. D.wis was born near Bowling Green,
Kentucky, about the beginning of the present century ;
learned the printer's trade. When a young man he came
to Perry county ; was baptized by Eld. P. Hagler, and re
ceived as a member of the Nine Jlile church, by which body
he was licensed to preach, and afterwards ordained a min-
ister of the Gospel. He was a zealous Baptist, and was
blessed in his ministerial work. He served as pastor of the
Pipe Stone and other churches. He died June 7, 1851,
leaving a widow, who still survives him, and several child-
ren, of whom K. M. Davis, of Pinckneyville, is one.
Eld. John K. Hutchings was prominently identified w ith
the early history of Perry county and of its Baptist churches.
He was baptized by P21d. P. Hagler, was ordained by the
Nine Mile church, and for several years was very useful
iu the Baptist ministry ; was clerk of the Nine Mile Asso-
ciation for the first seven years of its existence. He was
a man of good education, and taught school fur many years
in what is now Beaucoup precinct. He had the honor of
selecting the site for the court house at Pinckneyville. In
the later years of his life he lost his influence for good.
He died June 23, I86i).
Eld. Josiah Lemen was born near New Design, Monroe
count)-, Illinois, August 1-5, 1794. He was a son of Rev.
James and Catharine Lemen, and four of his brothers were
also Baptist ministers, all of whom have preached in Perry
county. His early education was obtained from a Baptist,
minister, named John Clark ; he was by " Father Clark "
baptized. May 2, IMl); soon after licensed to preach, and
ordained. He located near Du Quoin about 1858 ; was one
of the constituent members of the Ebenezer church, and for
a time its pastor. He was a warm-hearted man and an
ardent advocate of temperance. He died July 11, 1«G7, a
member of the Du Quoin church.
Eld. David IIuggins was born May 5, 1820, iu St. Clair
county, Illinois; professed religion, was baptized and united
with the Swanwick Baptist church in 1844, and was or-
dained in 184-5. He was one of the original members of
the Nine Mile Association. After thirty-two years of
faithful service, in which time he served many of the
cliiirehes of Perry county as pastor, he dieil at his home
iu Washington county, 111., April 2;!, 1;<77.
Eld. JonNso>f C. Harris.? was born in Tennessee in
April, 1826 ; was count)- treasurer of Perry county iu I8G3.
He was afterwards licensed to preach, and rendered faithful
-service to the cause of religion in the Nine Mile church,
of which he was clerk at the time of his death, March
5,1881.
Bro Isaac Eaton was a " pillar in the church " at
Galum ; died February 20, 1880, aged seventy-three years,
having seen a half-century of Cnristian service.
Samuel Eaton, Sr., was a useful member of Galum
church, being a licensed minister.
Deacons H. H. Strait and H. F. Harapleraan, of Para-
dise, Charles Song, of Pinckneyville, and many others
equally worthy might here be mentioned did space permit,
Bro. Enoch Eaton, Sr., the oldest Baptist in Perry
county, was born in Tennessee, September 29, 1803, where
he and his excellent wife were both baptized. They settled
in what is now calleil Eaton's prairie, in l."<25, kept open
house for Baptist meetings and Baptist preachers, and
otherwise contributed liberally for the support of the cause,
until the death of Sister Eaton, which took place August
4, 187()- "Judge Eaton," as he is called — having been a
judge of the county commissioners' court — has been a man
of sterling worth and influence- About four years ago he
had the misfortune to lose his hearing, and he has been
otherwise sorely afflicted, but his mental faculties are still
vigorous, and his heart warm in the cause.
Eld- David P. French. Probably no man has done
more in later years to promote the Baptist cause in Perry
county, than this faithful servant of God, whom the in-
firmities of life have laid aside from active duties. Eld-
French is a native of New Hampshire, and is now about
sixty six years of age- Failing health and the lo-ss of voice
resulted in the suspension of bis labors over three years
ago. As the General Missionary of the Baptist General
Association he began his work in this part of southern Illi-
nois in l'S67; was moderator of the Nine Mile Association
from 1868 to 1879 inclusive ; served the churches at Du
Quoin and Tamaroa as pastor a part of the time, and assisted
many other churches in protracted meetings. His great
attainments and deep piety, together with his long experi-
ence in church affairs, rendered him a counselor whose
words have been " like apples of gold in pictures of silver."
Eld. John Powell. Of those now actively engaged as
pastors in this county, we will make special mention of
Rev. John Powell, of Du Quoin, who.se venerable years
perhaps entitle him to this distinction. Eld. Powell was
born in Wales, in 1821 ; came to the United States when
eight years of a>»e ; was for some years connected with his
brother-in-law. Rev. W. C. Van Meter (who afterwards es-
tablished a Baptist mission at Rome, Italy), in the work of
Howard Mission in New York city. Eld. Powell has had
extensive experience as a teacher, and is active in the Sun-
day-school and Temperance work.
These are the men and these tlie means which f rod ha3
ordained and we would honor as the instrumentalities for
the perpetuation of those principles in religion and morals
which Baptists hold to be essential to the best interests of
men here and iu the great hereafter.
278
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
BAPTISTS AMONG THE COLORED PEOPLE.
The census of 1830 shows that four African slaves were
enrolled in Perry county. The condition of that people, as
to religious privileges as well as political rights and social
standing, has vastly changed since that day. Soon after the
war of the rebellion, a large number of colored people from
the south found homes in Perry county. In 1865 an effort
was made by the Pinckueyville Baptist Church to have a
Baptist church organized among them, but the enterprise
did not succeed. Various efforts were subsequently made,
but no organization or house of worship has yet been secured.
Rev. Mark Tolbert and others ha^e been faithful in their
efforts to uphold the cau?e. Two were baptized at Pinckuey-
ville, in the spring of 1882, by Rev. Major Anderson, and
their membership enrolled at Du Quoin. At Du Quoin the
cause has been more prosperous. Through the efforts of
Elders Jacob Cole (white) and John A. Williams (white)^
Rev. Thomas Reasoner and others, a church was organized
in Du Quoin about 1864 or 1865. In 1879 a neat frame
house was built at the Locust Grove, between Du Quoin and
St. John's, costing about $600. It has since been moved to
a lot near the Catholic church. This body, formerly called
the " Second Baptist Church of Du Quoin," but lately the
"Mount Zion Baptist Church," has many worthy members,
of whom several are preachers. Rev. Richard Dement has
been pastor of the church from the beginning, except eight
months, when Rev. J. H. Barton was pastor. Bro. Barton
is superintendent of the Sunday-school, which has five or six
teachers and a regular attendance of about thirty-five. The
church numbers about 125 members and is a part of the
Mount Olive Association, which has met with this church
two or three times— the last time on Sept. 5, 1882. TLis was
an interesting meeting and well attended.
Among those who have been prominent in this church
may be named Richard Dement, Mark Tolbert, Samuel
Barton, deceased, Daniel Jackson, deceased, George Roey,
deceased, George Ragland and others, who were the first
members; also, Alexander White, Nathan Banks, Nathan
Ricks, Major Anderson, Nelson David and others. Green
Weaver and Elijah Roey have been clerks of the church.
APPENDIX.
As a supplement to what has been written concerning the
Baptist denomination in Perry county, the following brief
statement comprises about all we have been able to gather as
to that people calling themselves the " Regular Baptists."
So averse do they seem to be to the publication of their own
hi-tory that it is impossible to do them the degree of honor
we would desire.
Among the earlier settlers of Perry county were a number
of immigrants from Tennessee, men of sterling integrity and
uprightness of character, holding views of the divine char,
acter and government which led them to decline fellowship
with those who belitvtd in the use of means iu the conver-
sion of the unregenerate
" We believe in the doctrine of election, and that God's
people were chosen in Christ from all eternity," is the sub-
stance of a tenet so strongly cherished by them that It was
incorporated in the letters of dismission they brought with
them from Tennesseee. Inadvertently or otherwise, a num.
ber of them became members of the Nine Mile church soon
after its organization. Failing to bring the church to their
views, they withdrew and organized a separate body, with
the name "Nine Mile" Baptist church. Friendly relations
seem to have existed between the two bodies, as they for a
time occupied the same house.
John S. Haggard, Matthew Jones and Thomas Jones were
among the original members, and this separate organization
took place about 1833, some account of which is given in the
foregoing sketch of the Nine Mile Baptist Church. John
Harriss, of Paradise Prairie, is their present clerk.
Two other organizations were in existence, but both have
long since become extinct. One of them, called " Holt's
Prairie" church, was situated at the forks of the Benton and
Du Quoin roads, about a mile east of Pinckneyville. The
grave of Samuel P. Groves marks the spot occupied by the
old log church. John Haggard, living near by, was one of
the first members. Elders Silas Chrislo and Eli Short were
present at the organization. The dates of its organization
and dissolution are not known.
METHODISM IN PERRY COUNTY.
BY MRS. LUCY M. HAMILTON.
The earliest account of Methodism to be found in Perry
county dates back to the year 1837. In that year a small
society was organized at Pinckneyville, by Rev. James H.
Dickens (now of Illinois Conference) and Rev. John Van-
cleve, presiding elder. This society was composed of Dr.
Humphrey B. Jones and Harriet Jones (father and mother
of the writer), Isaac Carmack and wife, Benjamin Ham-
mack, Sarah Hammack, Aaron Holman, Patsey Holman,
Calvin Edwards and Fannie Edwards. Their meetings were
held first at the house of Dr. H B. Jones; afterward, for a
time, in the court-house; from there the services were
removed to the school-house, and thence to the old Temper-
ance Hall, which they, as did other denominations, used as a
place of worship for a number of years. Their first church
was built in the year 1857, under the labors of Rev. G. W.
Cullom. It was a plain frame building, 30x40 feet, with a
seating capacity for about two hundred. This house served
them as a place of worship for about twenty-five years. By
this time the old church was too small to accommodate the
congregation, and not being centrally located, they deter-
mined to build another. In the year 1881, under the super-
vision of Rev. W. H. Tyner, the work commenced, and the
corner-stone of the new building was laid May 17, 1881 ; but
owing to the severe drought in that year the house was not
completed until May 21, 1882, when it was dedicated by
Rev. C. Nash, presiding elder, assisted by the pastor. Rev.
W. H. Tyner and Rev. James H. Dickens. This church is
a beautiful brick, 82x52 feet ; will seat from 300 to 400, and
cost $3,000.
Rev. James H. Dickens, the first Methodist circuit
preacher in Perry county, of whom we have any knowledge,
remained therein two years (1837-'38), laboring to build up
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
279
and establish Methodism. He traveled on horseback through
heat and cold, over a thinly-setlled country, organizing
small societies and f.)rming what was known for many years
as the Pinckneyville circuit, which we find in 1850 had
grown to be a charge of fourteen appointments of the fol-
lowing named places : Pinckneyville, Du Quoin, Tamaroa,
Six Mile, Greenwoods, Woolley's, Virgeunes (Jackson
county). Fallen's, Benson's scliool-house, Johnson's school-
house, Anderson's, Miuson's, Jenkins' and Campbell's.
Pre-eminent among these appointments were Pinckneyville,
Du Quoin and Tamaroa. We find from an old conference
journal that a small Methodist society was organized in old
Du Quoin in 1845 by Rev. Americus Don Carlos (now of
the Illinois Conference), which was a standing appointment
for several years. Rev. L. Hawkins was appointed by the
Southern Illinois Conference to the city of Du Quoin, then
a small village, where he formed a Methodist society.
We are iudebled to the Rev. T. N. Johnson for the fol-
lowing report of Methodism in Du (^uoin. He says that in
1863 the Rev. T. N. Johnson was appointed to the Du Quoin
circuit, that place being one of the appointments. Here he
found a few members, with no place of worship, and obtained
liberty to use the school house for that purpose. Soon pastor
and people saw the need of a church, and the work of build-
ing one began, many friends of the cause giving liberally.
Mrs. Nancy Woolley, widow of Rev. Benjamin Woolley,
donated the site, and the work progressed, notwithstanding
the hard times brought on by the war of the rebellion. It
is due many of our noble soldiers to say that they gave lib-
erally of their hard earned wages. This church was built of
brick, 60.x40 feet, seating 300 to 400, and costing between
$3,000 and S4,000. It was dedicated in September, 180.5,
and still serves as a place of worship for the Methodist peo-
ple of Du Quoiu. Du Quoin was made a station in the year
1865, with 72 members, and it has grown to be a station of
considerable importance, with a present membership of 105.
In 1865 a Methodist society was organized at Tamaroa by
Rev- G. W. CuUom, circuit preacher of Pinckneyville circuit.
Since that time this society has built a very good frame
church. This charge is known as Tamaroa circuit and em-
braces several appointments.
There are small Methodist societies throughout Perry
count}', besides those already mentioned, many of them being
quite active and prosperous ; and it is safe to say that
Methodism in Perry county is rapidly and surely becoming
a prominently established feature.
GERMAN EVANGELICAL CHURCH.
BY REV J. F. KLICK.
There are two congregations in Perry County that belong,
to the protestant church as it is represented, by the German
Evangelical Synod of North America. One of these is in
Pinckneyville, the other in Du Quoin. The one in Pinck-
neyville is called, " Evangelical St. Paul's congregation."
And this one we will describe first.
The Evangelical St Paul's Congregation in Pinckneyville
hae property valued at forty-five hundred dollars It
consists of two lots, a nice brick church building, a comforta-
ble brick parsonage, with school-room under the same roof,
and all necessary outbuildings. The church has a steeple,
containing two bells, and cost about four hundred dollars-
There is seating room for three hundred people.
Its history embraces this peculiarity that it was built
without one established congregation, or a settled pastor.
The Germans wante 1 a church, without being settled in their
minds, as to what denomination it should belong. Their
first aim, was, to have a German church. Accordingly
Evangelicals, Lutherans, Reformed and Methodists built
together, and not until the church was finished did the
question of ownership arise. The only way to solve this
question, was to organize, and accept a coustilution. On
this occasion the large majority of Germans were in favor of
an Evangelical, that is united Reformed and Lutheran
church, and accordingly in the year ]'^72, accepted an
Evangelical con.stitution-
The beginning of the congregation, dates back to 1855,
when the first members among the German emigrants settled
in the county. Now the Germans are all church members,
but under the first struggles to secure a comfortable home
for themselves, the church matter was some what neglected.
The German Methodists were the first that held services in
town and the surrounding country, that were attended
exclusively by Gertnans. Then occasionally, single stand-
ing ministers, that is, ministers that belong to no Synod,
came around and held services. But as the Methodists have
many strange arrangements in their service for the
Germans, and the single standing ministers proved to be
l>artly infidels, these meetings only served to make the
Germans feel the want of a church, as they have it in the
old country. Therefore in the year 1868, some Germans
began to circulate a subscription list to raise money for a
German church in Pinckneyville, the first German church
in town, and a considerable amount of money was sub' cribed.
With this the present Evangelical St- Paul's church
was built, in 1870. When finished it was open to all
German services. The first minister that held services was
Rev- George Goeringer. He was a member of the 'Mis-
souri Lutheran Synod," and therefore too exclusive to do any
good here. He was succeeded by the Kev. John Maul, who
came at intervals to hold meetings- But as he had a congre-
gation of his own, and could not come often, they called "Rev.
Albert Zeller," of the German Evangelical Synod of North
America He was successful in giving the people a solid
foundation, in the form of a constitution. This constitution
was adopted in 1872, and subscribed to by thirty-five fami-
lits. At this time there was no parsonage, and the minister
urged upon the congregation the necessity of building one-
They at first held back, knowing that there was still a debt
of one thousan<l dollars on the property. But at last they
concluded to build. The house was not to cost over fifteen
hundred dollars, and this sum was to be collected by the
minister ; but the house and appurtenances, aside from the
collected money, entailed upon the congregation a debt of
two thousand dollars. At this point, in 1874, Rev. A. Zel-
ler left the congregation. Under such circumstances the
280
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Rev. F. Laufman was called. He worked under these diffi-
culties for two years, and succeeded in holding up the
congregation, but neither increasing the number of members,
nor decreasing the debt. He left the congregation in 1876,
and it called Rev. John Klick from Nebraska, in the same
year. Under his management the congregation began to
prosper, the number of members increased and the debt was
paid. At this time, 1882, the congregation stands, nearly free
from debt, and numbers fifty families as its members. At
present there is hardly anything to impede the congregation
in its flourishing growth. At the peaceful gatherings of the
congregation at present, it is hard to be ieve, that there have
been so many difficulties to overcome.
The congregation has, as staled in the beginning a school
which at present is taught by the minister. The school is
held six months during the winter. Here the children o£ the
congregation receive their religious education, and are taught
in all the elementary branches in the German language,
though the school is open to all, who wish to learn German.
ST. JOHNS EVANGELICAL CONGREGATION.
The other Evangelical congregation as stated in the begin
ning is in Du Quoin. It has property to the value of two
thousand dollars, consisting of one lot, and a frame church
building, erected in 1876 with seating capacity for two
hundred and fifty people. Some of the members of this
congregation had lived here a long time before any German
servises was held. In fact as they lived among the Ameri-
cans, and have adopted the English language and manners,
they hardly knew that there were more than a few German
Protestant families. The German settlement seven miles
west of Du Quoin, had been visited by ministers occasionally,
but could not succeed in organizing a congregation. In 1874
Rev- F. Laufman of Pinckneyville, visited this settlement
and held service in a school-house for a period of time, and
then he was invited to preach in Du Quoin itself At the
first meetings the German Protestants found that there were
more of their own persuasion then they had any idea of So
Rev. Laufman was invited to preach there regularly. He
did so, and began to organize a congregation in 187.5. There
were nineteen families to enroll on the list. They con-
stituted themselves as the " German Evangelical St. John's
church of Du Quoiu." This being done they called Rev. J.
Kramer from St. Joseph, Missouri He commenced his work
in the spring of 1876. His first aim was to obtain a church
building. He circulated a subscription list for this purpose,
with much success, and a church was built the same year.
By this time the congregation had increased to 26 families.
By the time the church was completed, there was a debt of
nine hundred dollars. Rev. Kramer left the congregation
late in the year 1877, and was followed by the Rev. R. A.
John, who remained with them one year, and was followed
by Rev. J. L. Seybold, who likewise stayed one year, and the
concregat on was without a minister for si.x months. In
December, 1880, Rev. N. Mohr took charge of the congre-
gation, and worked faithfully, and at present the congrega-
tion is beginning to prosper. The number of members is
thirty four, the debt slightly diminished and strong efforts
are being made to pay the whole.
HOLY CATHOLIC CHURCH.
BY REV. C. KLOCKE.
Nothing could be ascertained of this church in Perry
county prior to 18.57, except the fact that Louis Du Quoin,
an Indian chief, after whom the city was named, was a Cath-
olic ; and he was probably the first one that set his foot on
the soil of the county. His remains lie buried at the his-
toric town of Kaskaskia.
In the month of Mxy, 1857, the few Catholic families liv-
ing within this county, assembled for the first time, for the
purpose of worship. The majority of them had not seen a
priest, and had not worshiped according to the rite of the
church to which they belonged for a number of years. At
the time above mentioned, Rev. Father Cusack, of Vandalia^
said mass at the residence of Michael Bradley, then living
some miles north of the present site of the city of Du Quoin,
at a place named Black Diamond.
Upon that occasion. Baptism, according to Catholic rites,
was administered for the first time within the county, to a
child, (John Bradley); John Bradley and Miss Donovan,
now Mrs. Carroll, acting as sponsors. Father Cusack sub-
sequently visited the county at intervals, and said mass at
different times at the houses of M. Bradley, John Bradley,
Mr. Day, Dr. O'Rielly, Mr. iMotler, and the late Timothy
Kelly. Father Cusack, after having attended to the spiri-
tual wants of the Catholics of the county for a few years, was
relieved by Rev. Father Lambert. Father Lambert quite
frequently celebrated mass at Mr. Henry Hoen's house, then
standing on the same lot, that afterward became the property
of the congregation Father Lambert continued his visits
up to 1861. Rev. Father Mark next visited the county
three or four times, and was succeeded, in 1863, by Rev.
Father J. W. Vahey, of Vandalia, who attended this mis-
sion till 186.5 These visits were neither frequent nor regu-
lar, and probably did not exceed one every quarter, from
1857 to 1865. These occasions gathered together the Cath-
olic settlers, residing many miles apart from each other in the
surrounding country.
In 1865 Rev. Father Walshe, of Vandalia, began to visit
Du Quoin every two months. At that time there were
about twenty Catholic families residing there, while the
whole number living within the county did not exceed
thirty.
After a time Father Walshe decided to build a church,
and a meeting to consider the practicability of such a step
was held at the house of Mr. Nicholas Kigert, in August^
1866. At this meeting, Henry Horn, J. J. Higgins, Owen
Reddington, James Hartigan, and Nicholas Kigert were ap-
pointed as directors and building committee, and succeeded
in collecting a sum of about three hundred and fifty dollars
in this county.
Henry Horn received the contract for building a brick
structure forty feet by fifty, at the price of two thousand
and two hundred dollars. The building was commenced in
September, 1866. Misfortune overtook the work in Decem-
ber, 1866. A severe storm swept across this section, and
caused one of the newly-erected walls to cave in, necessitat-
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
281
ing repairs costing seven hundred dollars, and delaying com-
pletion of the building till the following year.
The first mass was said in the new church to a congrega-
tion of twenty Citholic families ab.)Ut Christmas 1SG7. Af-
ter mass baptism was administered to one adult and seven
children.
Father Walshe's successor, in 18G8, was Rev. Father
Mackeuhaupt, of Centralia, who attended the newly founded
mission once a montli fir about nine mouths, when he died.
In May, iMis, this, as well as all the surrounding missions,
were visited, by the Rt. Rev. Bi5hop Yuucker, of Alton.
On September 2><, 1 •"<()>>, the congregation of Da Quoin and
the other missions were placed under the care of Rev. Chas.
Klocke, who ever since that time has remained continu-
ously at this post.
At that time Father Klocke was the only resident priest
on the Illinois Central railroad, between Cairo and Effing-
ham, and his labors extended over a territory, in which
there now are eight congregations, each of which has a resi-
dent priest. After becoming somewhat acquainted with those
amongst whom he was in future to labor, he directed hi^ at-
tention towards the spiritual and material condition of his
congregation. Before a year had passed, the church had
received a plastering, had been provided with seats, and
many other necessary fixtures.
The present parochial residence was bought in l^^GQ of
Mr. Henry Horn, for the sum of six thousand and five hun-
dred dollars. It it a neat and substantial building, and will
serve its purpose for many years to come. In one of the
rooms of the residence a school attended at first by eight
children, was commenced by Father Klocke, but as the num-
ber of pupils iucreased. the school was removed to a small
house that was standing on the same lot as the residence,
and had been included iu the six thousand and five hundred
dollar purchase. After the removal, the school was placed
under the care of Mr. John Masquelet, who remained its
teacher for five years.
In I'^Tl, the congregation was divided, and two ne>T con-
gregations founded, one (St. Bruno's) at Pinckneyville, and
the other, (St. Mary Magdalen's,) at Todd's mill, Beaucoup
precinct.
At Todd's mill a chapel was built, where services are held
once a month, by the priest of Pinckneyville. During the
same year a brick church (o5x(i>») was begun at Pinckney-
ville, which was completed in 1874. It was built under the
direction of Rev. Father Klocke at a cost of about eight
thousand dollars, and is the handsomest church edifice in
Perry county. Pinckneyville remained in charge of Rev.
Father Klocke until IS"."', when Rev. Father L. Riesen be-
came its rector. Father Riesen remained one year, and was
succeeded by Rev. Father II. Ader, who is still there. About
sixty families belong to this congregation, which is in a flour-
ishing condition. In 1^72 a two-storied school-house was
erected in Du (iuoin. Its iliniensions are 40x24. It is an
airy spacious building, well constructed, with proper regard
for ventilation, etc., and is at |>reseut visited by seventy-four
pupils. In 1.S74 forty acres of land was purchased, of which
ten were reserved for burying purposes. After these large
36
purchases had been made, there followed a series of complete
failures of the crop.s, rendering the members of the congre-
gation unable to pay their contributions. In consequence
of this the financial condition of the congregation had be-
come very distressing. When the distress was the greatest
there came a deliverer. Mr. Henry Horn, whose name has
already several times appeared on these pages, came for-
ward, and generously donated the congregation the hand-
some sura of nine thousand dollars. For this generous act
the Catholics of the Du Quoin congregation owe Mr. Horn
a debt of gratitude that they will never be able to cancel.
There are at present (I'S.SJ) over three hundred Catholic
families in this county. In 1857 there were thirty. By
comparing these two figures any one that will, may see that
Catholicism is steadily making slow, but sure progress within
the territory of which we are writing.
THE UNITED PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH.
{Randolph and Perry Counties).
BY REV. J. C. ELLIOTT.
This religious organization was formed May the 26th,
1S.58, by the union of the Associate and the Associate
Reformed Presbyterian Churches. The former had its
origin iu Scotland in the year 17o-'> ; the latter was largely
a product of the American Revolution for Independence.
The Associate and the Reformed Presbyterian Churches,
having originated in Scotland, their members haled the
tyranny of England, and many of them were iu the Ameri-
can army fighting side by side for independence. This et
a/i'i led to a union of these bodies in 1782.
In Randolph and Perry counties there are at present nine
representatives of thij church, the oldest of wh ch is at
SPRIXGFIELD.
It is likewise the oldest congregation of the Presbyterian
faith in the State of Illinois, having been organized in the
year 1810 by Rev. Samuel Brown of the Associate Reformed
Presbytery of Kentucky. The first elders were Archibald
Thompson, John Anderson and John Bcatty. The first
house of worship was built in the year 1812 by the joint
labor of those " who wished a church " It was a double log
cabin, lGx32 feet, and stood near what is now known as the
Kelley graveyard, about two miles east of Evansville. In
this same year the first administration of the ordinance of
baptism was administered to forty-four children, among
whom was the writer's mother. A second house of worship,
a frame building about 30x40 feet, was built in 1823 or '24,
and stood on the east side of the present cemetery near
Preston, formerly Springfield. Their present commodious
brick church was erected in 1841-42 at a cost of about one
thousand dollars, and stands on a beautiful ridge in the
eastern part of this little village. Besides Rev. Brown,
Revs. Samuel Carothers and Alexander Porter preached for
the congregation, as occasion permitted, prior to 1826. In
this year was installed their first pastor. Rev. John Rey-
nolds, who remained with them till 1829. Rev. Samuel C.
Baldridge succeeded hira in 1831, and resigned his charge
282
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
in 1836. Rev. Jas. McAuley began his labors here in 1839,
and continued them till the spring of 1847, when he re-
signed. His successor from 1849 to 1854 was Rev. M. M.
BrowD, who was followed from 185.5 to 1866 by Rev J. W.
Glenn. Rev. John Todd was installed May 14, 1870, and
released April 10, 1872. Their present pastor, Rev. 8. M.
Moore, has served the congregation since 1873. It is a
noteworthy fact that not a single pastor of this congrega-
tion, during its seventy years of existence, has been removed
by death.
Jordan's grove.
This congregation was organized in connexion with the
Associate Presbyterian Church of North America in the
year 1828. It was known by the name of Unity until 1871,
when it was changed to Jordan's Grove. Its first Elders
were, Messrs. John McMillan, Moses Thompson and William
Rutherford. Rev. James P. Miller, who made a tour of
exploration westward through Indiana, Illinois, and into
Missouri in the years 1824 and '25, was probably its first
minister.
The late Rev. James Rodgers, D. D., preached here in.
1830. The first house of worship was a small log cabin;
afterwards it was enlarged by a small frame addition to one
end. In 1847-'8, a frame church that would seat about one
hundred persons was erected. In 1860 they built their
present large brick church, 60x45 feet, with a seating capa-
city for nearly 500 perjons. It is located about six miles
southwest of Maris^^a, in Randolph county. Rev. Thomas
S. Kendall labored here about the years 1843 and '4 Rev
Byron Porter was pastor from 1851 until 1856 Rev. J. P.
Wright accepted a call in the spring of 1861, but returned
it in October of the same year. He was succeeded in Oct.,
1862, by the Rev. R. N. Fee, who remained until April,
1871, when he resigned. Sept. 1875, to August 1876, Rev.
T. B. McKee was pastor. Rev. R. C Hamilton was or-
dained and installed in December, 1877, and remained till
April, 1879. Their present pastor, Rev. W. J. Gillespie,
took charge in December, 1879. The congregation is pros-
pering under his eflScient management. It was much weaK-
ened in 1870 by the organization of a church at Marissa,
which received accessions from its members residing in the
vicinity of that place. The present membership of Jordan's
Grove is eighty-one.
UNION.
This congregation was organized May 31, 1830. Rev.
John Reynolds preached there first in 1826. Its first elders
were, Messrs. Arthur Parks, William McKee, Maxey Mc-
Cormick, and James Morrow ; its first trustees, Messrs. Ar-
thur Parks, James Morrow and James Baird Their first
church edifice-a brick building 60x40 feet— was erected in
1832 for about $1,500 00, and would seat some .300 persons.
This house becoming unfit for use, another, 70x40 feet, was
erected in 1870-71, about three miles southwest of Sparta,
of the same material, costing §3,200. The first church
stood in the northern side of Union cemetery. Its first
pastor was Rev. Samuel C. Baldridge ; the second. Rev.
James McAuley, from 1839 to 1843 ; the third, Rev. Wm.
M. Graham, from the summer of 1844 until September, 1847 ;
the fcurth. Rev. Samuel McDill, D D., from April, 1849,
to the fall of 18.56; the fifth. Rev J. F. Stewart, from April
2, 1857, until 1859, when Sparta became a separate congre-
gation, after which he devoted his whole time there. The
sixth pastor of Union was Rev. Henry Allen, from Dec,
1860, until May, 1865. Rev. M M. Marling was their
seventh pastor, from Feb., 1866, until April, 1870. Their
present pastor. Rev. T. P. Proudfit, was installed April 24,
1872. Its present membership is 109.
HOPEWELT,.
This congregation was organized in 1832 with about
thirty five members. The first minister who preached there
was Rev. Samuel C. Baldridge. He was their first pastor,
from the date of their organization until he left southern
Illinois in 1837. In 1840. Rev. Joseph Thompson became
their pastor. On account of some diflSculties in the congre-
gation, he resigned in the year 1846. In 1847 or '8, Rev.
James Morrow began to labor there as a stated supply, and
continued until about 18.j2. He was succeeded by Rev.
William Wright in 1859, until Nov., 1863. Rev. T. D.
Davis began work in Nov., 1864, but was not installed until
early in 1865. He remained until the fall of 1867, and was
succeeded by the Rev. John E. Richey, July 14, 1868, who
continued pastor until his death, Dec 30, 1874. The next
pastor was Rev. Wm. L. Garges, from Sept. 6, 1880, until
Dec, 1881, when he resigned, leaving the pastorate vacant.
The first elders were :— Messrs. David Baldridge, Robert
Woodside, James Steele and Hugh Brown. Their first
house of worship was built in 1832 on the northeast quarter
of the southeast quarter of section 19, town 5 south, range 3
west. It is a frame building (still used), and will seat two
hundred persons.
During the pastorate of Rev. William Wright, in 1860,
they erected a second house of worship in Pinckneyville for
the accommodation of members living in that village and
vicinity. It was also a frame building and cost about S1300.
Since its erection services have been held in each house on
alternate days. In 1874 it had one hundred and fifty mem-
bers; and now (in 1882) it has only one hundred and six-
teen, and these widely scattered. They have recently sold
their house in Pinckneyville, and contemplate building one
more centrally located.
This congregation was originally a part of Hopewell. In
1840 there were six or eight families residing in this vicinity
who held their membership in that congregation. During
the pastorate of Rev. Joseph Thompson he frequently
preached for them in some of the farm houses in this neigh-
borhood, and was the first preacher here. A plain frame
church edifice was completed in the year 1850, at a cost of
about S500, about a half a mile southeast of Swanwick.
In 1873 and '74 it was repaired at a cost of $5.50. This
congregation was organized October 12, 1850, by Rev. David
McDill, D. D., with twenty members. Messrs. Joseph Craig
and John C Huey were its first elders. Messrs. John Clark
and Daniel Fullerton were elected soon after its organization.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
283
Itj first Trustees were Messrs. John McMillan, Samuel Huey
and John M. Woodside. Rev. James Morrow preached as a
supply, for two or three years, as aUo various other minis-
ters for short periods. lu May, 18.")!), Rev. Daniel Steele
was settled as their first pastor. lie rennined until the be-
ginning of the year l.SOt!, when he was released. After two
years vacancy, Rev. J. C. Elliott, as theirsecond pastor, be-
gan his labor July 1, 1868, but was not installed until the
15th of the following October. He is still, 1882, their pas-
tor. There were seventy-five members when he took charge,
and now there are one hundred and thirty-eight. It is now
the senior pastorate in the U. P. Presbytery of Southern
Illinois.
As early as 1830, this was a preaching station
in connection with Union congregation. A large brick
church was completed here in l>4-5 or 'G, costingabout §4200.
It had a basement story. Its four basement rooms were in-
tended for high school purposes, and one of them was so
used for several years until Union Academy was built. A
A defective foundation rendered this church unsafe for use,
and it was therefore replaced by the jiresent handsome one
erected in 1800 at a cost of StiOOO, October 5, IS-VJ, the
Presbytery approved of a separate organization in accor.
dance with the report of a committee appointed in that be-
half. Since then Union and Sparta have existed as distinct
congregations. The elders of Sparta at that date, >.. e. 1859,
as far as we know, were as follows : Messrs. Aaron M. Allen,
John McDill, John Taylor, George Brown, Matthew Gilles-
pie, Henry Clendennin, and James A. Foster. Its mem.
bership in 1860 was one hundred and seventy. Rev J. F.
Stewart resigned his charge of Union in the full of 18-59 and
gave all his time to Sparta until October •"), 1S70, when he
resigned. The congregation immediately called Rev. W. J.
Gillespie, who was installed November 11th following. He
resigned the charge May 10, 1871, on account of ill health.
He accepted a call the second time August 7, 1872, contin-
uing pastor until August 14, 1877. Rev. .1. W. McNary
the present pastor, was installed May 14, 1878. The present
membership of this church is 373.
riiOSl'ERITY,
This congregation was organized in May, 1867, by Rev.
J. F. Stewart, by direction of Presbytery. The fifty persons
entering into this organization were members of the U. P.
churches of Sparta and Mud Creek, and the R. P. Church
of Coulterville. The first elders were Messrs. Samuel L.
Boyd, James Kennedy, Samuel Gibson, John Pinckerton
and Gavin Bicket. A commoJious brick church OOxoO feet
wa.s erected in 1867, near Tilden, in Randolj)h county, at a
cost of a little over $8000, with accomodations for four hun-
dred and seventy persons May 1, 180S, Rev. James R.
Finney was installed the first pastor. During his pastorate
the congregation increased from seventy-four to one hundred
aud fifty-five members. He was released iu April, 1873, on
account of failing health. November 20, 1873. Rev. J. M.
McKitrick became their second pastor, remaining with them
until September 6, 1830, when he resigned on account of
delicate health. The coagregation was saddened greatly
during his pastorate by the death of two of its active
elders, viz : Messrs. Stevenson and Aitken. Since
Rev. McKitrick's resignation they have been vacant. Its
membership as reported to the last (Miy, 1882; General
Assembly, was one hundred and sixty-eight
COVLTERVILLE.
This congregation came into the United Presbyterian
Church from the Reformed Presbyterian Ch irch in the year
1S70. The pasior. Rev. W. S. Bralton, four elders, viz. :
Messrs. William Munford, D.ivid Munford, James R.
McKelvey and James \V. McMillan, and ninety members,
came as an organized body, by virtue of the action of the
Western Presbytery of the Reformed Presbyterian Church,
which accepted a basis for union that had been prepared
some years before. A part of the congregation remained in
their former connection, and held the church property. This
entailed the burdun of erecting a new church edifice on those
who had seen fit to change their ecclesiastical connection.
iSoon they had a new and beautiful frame church 60x37
feet, built at a cost all told of S4641. It was dedicated July
7, 1871. Rev John McMaster, D. D., of Princeton, In-
diana, preached the dedication sermon. Success in erecting
this house of worship so speeddy was due to the energy and
faithfulness of the first three trustees, viz. : Messrs. John II.
McKelvey, Thomas McDill aud James Mark. The congre-
gation continued to prosper, until its venerable pastor's
death, January 11,1873. He had served them since De-
cember, 18.59 and was sincerely lamented. They next called
Rev. J. H. Peacock, who was installed pastor Oct 'ber 31,
1873, and continued to act iu that capacity until February
1, 1875, when he was removed by death. A vacancy fol-
lowed until Rev. J. II. Gibson was ordained and installed
March 13, 1877 Their last report shows a membership of
two hundred and eight. This compared with their first
report in 1S71, shows a gain of one hundred aud fifteen mem-
bers in eleven years.
CUTLER.
The original name of this congregatign was Concord. It
also came from the Reformed Presbyterian Church in 1870,
with its pastor. Rev. M. Harshaw, and four elders, viz. :
Messrs. Hugh Cooper, David Stevenson, Robert VV. Cun-
ningham, D.ivid S. McClure and forty-eight members As
at Coulterville so here the old church held the church pro-
perty. Rev. Harshaw aud his people however soon secured
a piece of ground, and in the summer of 1871 erected near
Culler a neat frame church 46x33 feet, at a cost of S1900,
with seating room for two hundred persons. August 11th,
1874, their venerable pastor died at the age of sixty-seven,
closing a pastorate among them of nearly thirty-two years.
This was a very discouraging event in the history of this
church. Having made several unsuccessful attempts to
secure a pastor, Mr. Tneodore C. McKelvey, a licentiate of
our own Presbytery, was ordained and installed September
7, 1880. Finding their house of worship to be inconveni-
ently located, they bad it removed in December, 18 81. to
the village of Cutler, at an expense of S47o. Their member-
ship now numbers seventy-si:v.
CHESTER.
RANDOLPH CO.
^^HESTER, the county seat of Randolph county,
^^ began its growth as a town in 1829. As Alton
^^^5/^ bounds the American Bottom on the north, so
*A|^ ■*; Chester on the south is built where the bluf}'
'^'f^*^^ fii'st touches the eastern bank of the Missi-sippi
in a distance of one hundred and ten miles.
Its location was considered most advantageous
in the early days of river navigation, and its founders
prophesied that a great and populous city would be built
upon its site. It became the seat of county government in
1848. It is now the largest town on the river between St.
Louis and Cairo.
The vicinity of Chester early attracted the attention of
men as a suitable place for building a town. In the early part
of the year 1819 a company was organized at Cincinnati, Ohio
for the purpose of founding a town on the Mississippi near
the mouth of the Kaskaskia. The projected town, it was
thought, might become the future metropolis of Illinois.
The company was composed of jMajor William Oliver, W.
Bart, David Brown, Daniel D. Smith ard some others.
Daniel D. Smith, as agent of ti)e company, came to Illinois,
and purchased a large tr.Jct of land near the mouth of the
Kaska.«kia, above the present city limits, on which to build
the future town. It is the same spot where the Southern
Illinois Penitentiary has since been built. The next year
Benjamin A. Porter, under contract with the proprietors,
erected a number of dwellings, and built a steam mill. The
town was named Portland. It was likely thought that the
new town would draw away the trade of Kaskaskia. The
enterprise, however, languished, the town refused to grow,
and in a few years a heap of ruins marked the spot which, it
was hoped, might have resounded with the stir of commerce
and the busy hum of labor. Of the persons connected with
this scheme Benjamin A. Porter became the founder of
the town of Helena, Arkansas. Daniel D. Smith removed
to a more northern part of the State, and became
the Recorder of Pike county. While at Edwardsville on a
Saturday evening in November, 1824, he was killed by
Palmon H. Winchester, then practicing law at Edwardsville.
Winchester was acquitted and for many years afterward
practiced his profession at Carlinville, Macoupin county.
The earliest entry of land on the site of Chester was made
by John McFerron who on the thirtieth of September, 1816;
purchased from the Government fractional section twenty-
five containing upward of forty-seven acres. This is a tri.
angular tract, embracing the present depot and ferry land-
ing, and extending up the river as far as Hancock street.
October the eighth, 1824, McFerron conveyed this land to
284
John Griffith for two hundred dollars, and June twenty-
ninth, 1829, for a consideration of twelve dollars, Griffith
made conveyance to Thomas Mather and James L. Lamb-
The southwest fractional quarter of section twenty-four,
running along the river front above Hancock street for more
than half a mile, and taking in the site of the court house,
was also entered by John JIcFerron. This tract, on the
seventh of July, 1829, was deeded to Jacob Mayer of Kas-
kaskia. It contained nearly eighty-nine acres, and the price
paid for it was two dollars an acre. On the tenth of March,
1830, Mayer, for a consideration of one hundred dollars,
conveyed the land to Samuel Smith.
From an earl)' date there had been temporary residents on
the site of the town. John McFerron, the original patentee of
the land, occupied a cabin by the branch near the present
railway station, previous to the year 1820. He represented
Randolph county as State Senator in the first Legislature
that convened after the admission of the State into the
Union.
To Samuel Smith, however, more than to any one else,
belongs the honor of being the founder of Chester. He was
born near Carlisle, Pennsylvania. He erected a dwelling,
established a ferry, and began the construction of a mill.
It is said that he erected his house in the summer of 1829,
though the records show that he did not become the owner
of the land till the spring of 1830. This house stood on
lot three of the original town, on Water street, about mid-
way between Wall and Ferry. His wife was a native of
Chester, England, having come to Illinois with the Swan-
wick family and from this circumstance the name of Chester
was bestowed on the new town. He kept a hotel, and
ferried passengers across the river in a fiat-boat He was a
man of considerable edusation and intelligence and a good
surveyor. In a few years he removed to Jack.son county,
where he took quite an active part in politics, and was elect-
ed county surveyor and to other public positions. He
there incurred the enmity of a man named Martin Harrison
who, accompanied by his brother iu-law, ]Slanton Brown,
the latter's wife and her sister, met him on the road one day
within half a mile of his house, and dragging him from the
wagon on which he was riding, beat him in a terrible man-
ner. A bound boy with Smith at the time ran to tell his
wife of the occurrence and she reached the spot to find her
husband dead. Brown and the women were confined in the
jail at Brownsville, then the county seat of Jackson county, a
couple of years, but were finally acquitted of the charge of
murder on which they were tried.
The firm of Mather, Lamb & Co. were then carrying on a
NEW STORE
PROPCHry or isaac MERED/rH, Chester , /ll.
:s4r
RESIDENCE OF W 'T' SCHU C H E RT ^ CH E S T E R ^ I L LI N 01 S .
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
285
large mercantile business at Kaskaskia- One feature of
their operations was the packing of beef and pork, which
they sold at Xew Orleaus and other points on the river.
Finding some difficulty in reaching the steamboat landing
from Kaskaskia, they delermiued to erect a slaughter house
and packing establishment where Samuel Smith had already
projected the town of Chester. His plan was carried out in
November, 18:50. Directly afterward Stacy B. Opdycke,
representing the firm of Mather, Lamb & Co., of which he
was a member, opened a store in a building on the corner of
Water and Wall streets. This was the first store in Chester.
In the spring of 1831 Samuel Smith laid off that part of
his land below Wall street iuto town lots, and Mather, Lamb
& Co. surveyed a few lots above Wall street. In 1630 Rich-
ard B. Servant began the manufacture of castor oil. In the
year 1831 Setli Allen began business as a cooper. The same
year a blacksmith shop was established by Silas Leland.
The next s-tore was opened in October, 1833, by Holmes,
Swanwick & Co. in a building which the firm erected on lot
five of the original town, at the corner of Water and Ferry
streets. The building is the one now occupied as a store by
Korris C. Crissy. The firm was composed of Joseph B.
Holmes, Francis Swanwick, and Gabriel Jones.
Among the early residents of Chester were men of no
small energy, enterprise, and business ability. The differ,
eut members of the firm of Mather, Lamb & Co. were at
times residents of the town. Thomas Mather was a native
of New England, and a descendant of Cotton Mather. He
came to Kaskaskia shortly after 1820. After the firm closed
out their stores at Kaskaskia and Chester, which svas about
the year 1833, he became a resident of Springfield. He was
president of the State Bank of Illinois. He was elected
from Kandolph county to the state legislature in 1828,
1832. and ls:;4, serving the first term as representative and
tiie last two terms as senator. He died at Springfield.
James L. Lamb attended to the pork-packing department of
the firm's business. He was a man of bold and speculative
mind, and made and lost large amounts of money, but died
wealthy. His widow is still a resident of Springfield. Stacy
B. Opdycke also died at Springfield. He was a native of
New Jersey.
The firm of Holmes, .Swanwick & Co. began bu.-iuess in
1833 with a capital of less than two thou.sand dollars, and
from the start transacted a business of fifty thousand.dollars
a year, to which subsequently a material increase was made.
After two or three years Dr. Lewis Morrison became a
member of the firm. Their principal store was at Chester,
and branches were established at Steclesville, then called
Georgetown, Pinckneyville in Perry county, Frankfort in
Franklin county, and Brownsville in Jackson county. Cas-
tor oil mills were carried on at Chester, Pinckneyville, and
Frankfort, and the product shipped by river from Chester.
Very little cash was received for goods ; ready money was
then scarce. Beeswa.x, deerskins, castor beans, hides, and
all kinds of produce were taken in payment for merchandise
and were disposed of in all parts of the country, but chiefly
New Orleans, St. Louis, or Philadelphia. Sometimes ship-
ments were even made to England. At one time a thousand
coon skins, costing twenty-five cents each, were shipped to
Liverpool, and a dollar a skin realized. Joseph B. Holmes
was born in Cumberland county, Pa. On a visit of Thomas
Mather to Philadelphia to purchase goods from Barcroft &
Co., which then to a great extent supplied the merchants in
this part of the country, he inquired of Mr. Barcroft if he
knew a capable young man to go with him to Kaskaskia.
Holmes was recommended, and reached Kaskaskia about
the year 1^28. After coming to Chester in 1833 he carried
on the mercantile business nearly till the time of his death
in November, 1879. Francis Swanwick was born at Ches-
ter, England. He came to Chester as clerk in the store of
Mather, Lamb & Co. when it was firsi established. He was
in business at Chester till about 1861. He was lieutenant-
colonel of the Twenty-second Illinois regiment during the
war of the rebellion, and now resides near Oswego, Kansas.
Swanwick and Holmes married sisters, the daughters of
Gov. Shadrach Bond.
Col. Gabriel Jones, who was a member of the firm of
Holmes, .Swanwick & Co., was born in Loudon county, Va.,
in 1790, and in 1810 went to Kentucky, and there married
a Miss Ashby, who belonged to the \'irginia family of that
name. He was in the Kentucky troops who took part in
the war of 1812-14, and was present at the battle of the
Thames, in Canada. November, 1817, he came to Randolph
county, settling at Steele-sville, where he taught school one
winter. From 1825 to 1828 he was farming at Kaskaskia
on laud which he rented of Judge Nathaniel Pope. In
1828 he took charge for Mather, Lamb & Co. of a store at
Steclesville, one of the first stores established in the county
outside of the Americau Bottom. He sold goods about three
years at Steclesville, and then was employed in Mather,
Lamb i& Co.'s store at Chester. He went to the Black
Hawk war in l.s32 as captain of one of the three companies
raised in Randolph county, and later in the campaign was
elected colonel of the regiment to which his cami)any was
attached From October, ls3:{, till the close of the year
1839, he was a member of the firm of Hulmes, Swanwick &
Co. He was elected county commissioner iu 1822 and in
183(), and a member of the legislature in 1824 and in 1838.
He also served as justice of the peace and deputy United
States marshal. He was killed in November, 18G4, in the
severe storm which passed over Chester at that time. His
house, which was on the spot now occupied by the residence
of Capt. C. (". Williams, was completely demolished.
Dr. Lewis Morrison was born at Kaskaskia, and was the
son of William Jlorrison. He was educated as a physician.
His wife was a sister of Francis Swanwick. He wius farm-
ing iu Washington county, i)revious to his becoming a mem-
ber of the firm of Holmes, Swanwick & Co., and after 1840
was again a resident of Washington county for a number of
years, and then returned to Chester and opened a store,
which he carried on for some time.
On the last day of December, 1840, the firm of Holmes,
Swanwick &, Co. dissolve<I, and the new firm of Holmes &
Swanwick began operations. In 184() their mercantile bus-
ne-ss was disposed of to John Sftanwick, a brother to Fran-
cis, and the firm engaged in milling. They began the erec-
286
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
tion of the stone flouring mill, now being changed into an
elevator, in 1842, and completed it in 184G. Among other
merchants who did business iu Chester, within the the
ten years subsequent to 1834, was Thomas H. Campbell,
who had charge of a stock of goods owned by Robert
Shannon.
Col. Richard B. Servant came to Chester to engage in the
manufacture of Castor oil He furnished farmers in the
eurrounding country with the seed and induced them V>
plant a crop, and then erected a mill for the manufacture of
oil, and for several years carried on a large and flourishing
business. At a period previous to 1840, he had more ready
money at hb command than any other citizen of the place.
He was a whig in politics, and was appointed receiver of
public monies at the land office at Kaskaskia. He after-
ward established a conveyancer's office at Chester. He
served as a member of the State Senate from 183(5 to 1840.
Seth Allen carried on the cooper business for a number of
years. For a long time he was Justice of the Ptace. He
owned the land on which the court house is built, and
deeded it to the county on condition that it should revert to
the town of Chester, when no longer used as u ^ite for the
public buildings.
The names of the Cole's have for many years been hon-
orably and conspicuously identified with the history of
Chester. Nathan Cole was born in Dntcliers county, New
York, in the year 1783. He came to St. Louis in 1621
and engaged in business in that city and iu East St. Louis
then known as Illinoistown. He is said to have been the
first person to undertake regularly the packing of pork in
the Mississippi valley. He came to Cliester in IS;!?, and
built the first flouring mill in the place. Adilitional im-
provements were made two years afterward, and Mr. Cole
began the shipping of flour to the southern markets. He
died in 1840 After the death of Nathan Cole, his .ions,
Abner and Hernion C. Cole, continued to carry on the mill,
and the latter subsequently became the sole pniprietnr.
On coming to Chester in 1837, Hermon C. Cule begiui liic
mercantile business which he carried on until l'<(>7, when he
sold his stock of goods to AVilliam Schuehtrt. He died at
Upper Alton, in October, 1874. Previous to his dtatli liis
sons had been taken into partnership, and tlioy have since
continued the milling and banking business.
The earliest physician in Chester, was Dr. Barbee.
He came in 1833, a short time after his arrival fell a vi<'tiin
to the cholera. The cholera prevailed during the year 1832
and 1833, and again in 1849. The deaths were large in
proportion to the population. Dr. Jefferson, a native of
Virginia, came in 1834, and for a short time practiced his
profession. Dr. M. E. Ferris became a resident of the
place in 1835. He died of cholera iu 1849. Dr. Charles
Baker began the practice of medicine in 1844, but left soon
after. Dr. M W. Millard came from Ohio the same year.
He died in 1849. Dr. C T. Jones, a native of Kentucky,
from about the year 1843 to 1846, practiced his profession
in partnership with Dr. Ferris. He then moved to a
firm in the neighborhood of Steelesville, but subsequently
returned to Carter and resumad his medical practice.
He now lives in St. Ijouis.
From 18-50 to 186-5, a number of physicians located at
Chester, the must of them remaining but a short time.
Among them were Drs. Waggoner, Birton, William Vance,
C. J. Childs, G. N. Poston, Oaks, Richard Hopkins and a
number of German physicians. The oldest practitioner of
medicine now in Chester is Dr. William A. Gordon. He
was bom iu Chillicothe, Ohio, and came to the county in
1843, and after practicing his profession at Steelesville, came
Vj Chester in the spring of 1848. Dr. John T. Pollock, who
w:is born iu the county near Sparta, has practiced medi-
cine in Chester since 1857. The other physicians now in
the place became residents at more recent periods.
The lawyers who made Chester their home in former days
are spoken of in the chapter on the bench and bar.
ITKMS COSCEESISG TUE EARLY HISTORY OF THE TOWN.
The first brick house in Chester was built by Amzi
Andrews in the year 1835. It stood near the river. During
the flood of 1844, a steamboat, th ■ Bellair, ran against it and
demolished it. The same bjat knocked a corner out of
Holine-i and Swauwick's mill, then iu process of construc-
tion. For the injury to their two buildings Holmes and
Swanwic'i recovered S5000 damages. Amzi Andrews came
to Ivaska.-ikia and made a number of trips from that place to
New Oileans with produce. In 1831 he became a resident
of Che.-ter. Oa the 4lh of February, 1834, he was married
to Contejit Walker, daughter of Eleazer Walker, and this
marriage w:is the first that ever took place in Chester. The
ccritmony was performed by Seth Allen, a justice of the
peace. Mr. Andrews died in 187G, and his widow is now one
of the oldest residouls iu Chester. Horace Francis and
Amzi Andrews together built the first stone house in Chester
in 1833 It stands on the corner of Water and Pine streets.
Amos Emerson began the ooper business about 1833.
About the yeir 1837 brilliant expectations were entertained
c.meeniiiig the fulurcoF Cliester, and real estate rose to high
values. It v.a- thought by many persons that it would
bieiiue a jiK.u commercial town, and even that it might
rival St. Lmis in importance. Investments were made in
t )w u iirojieity by citizens of other places. Lvman Trumball
liiae!ui=cJ a "lot on Water street, between Angle and Han-
cock, for twelve hundred dollars, which after keeping nearly
lorlv years, he sold for two hundred dollars.
Along iu the years 1837 and 18JS tlie condition of the
river bauk and the need of a good steamboat landing ex-
cited the attention of the people. An onliuiuce was passed
on the 14tli of April, 1833, which pledged the faith of the
corporation to reimburse each citizen who should secure the
river bank in front of his own lot. If the revenue for the
current year should ba iusuffijieiit, each lot owner should
receive a pro rata amount and scrip for the balance, bearing
six per cent, interest. Uuder this ordina-jce Eleazer Walker
was allow'ed one hundred dollars, Richard B. Servant sixty-
three, Horace Fraucij forty-three, Richmond Darwin forty-
five, Seth Allen fifty, and Francis Swanwick one hundred
and seven.
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
287
In 1839 the Board of Trustees arranged to erect a build-
ing twenty-eight feet front by forty deep, to be used as a
school house, union meeting house and town house. Mather,
Lamb A Co. gave lot five of block nine of their addition to
the town as a site for the structure. Its cost exceeded three
thou.'and dollars, The building was finished in the summer
of 1839, and in September of that year a committee was
directed to have the interior plastered provided the cost did
not embarass the treasury too much. Peter McCuUoch did
theplastering for one hundred and thirty-three dollars. The
cost of the building was met by levying a special tax of one-
half of one per cent.
In 1839 a coramit'eeof the board of trustees reported that
a school of thirty pupils could be formed, and a contract was
made with O. P. Eaton to teach the school fur two dollars
and fifty cents per quarter for each pupil.
The Removal of the f'ountij Sent from Ka.ska.skia to Chester
was accomplished only after mucb agitation. The great flood
of 1844 demonstrated to a great many citizens of the county
the unfitness of Kaskaskia as the seat of justice, but it was
only after arduous exertions that a majority of the people
could be got to vote ;o remove the public buildings to Ches-
ter, which was accomplished in 1848.
PUBSECJUKST GROWTH.
In early days all of Chester was comprised in the space at
the foot of the bluffalong the river front. It was some years
before it began to expand on the hill. Arazi Andrews, .Seth
Allen and Elcaser Walker were among the first to choose
the hill as a place of residence. Andrews occupied a log
house on the street on w-hich the jail is located. Allen's
house was a one-story frame structure on Market street in
what is known as Young's addition. It is still standing.
Walker's house may still be seen on Spartf street Captain
Frank Swanwick occupied it in early years. Walker origi-
nally built this house under the hill, but btcoming alarmed
by the sliding of the ground on which it was built, by whicii
it became twisted on its foundations, he moved it to its
present position. Colonel Richard B. Servant in 1838 built
the brick residence on Sparta street, above where Dr. Gordon
lives. It was consiilered in its day a fine specimen of archi-
tecture, and was formerly surrounded by a beautiful garden,
plented with flowers, and kept with good taste. Truman E.
Andrews in early days lived in a small log house in the rear
of the Virginia hotel. These comprised nearly all the
houses that had been erected on the hill previous to the year
1847. At that date the site of the court house was a field,
and where that flourishing part of the city, known as Beuna
Vista, has since been built, was the farm of George W.
Stratton. The building of the court house on the hill caused
that portion of the town to grow in favor. In 1880 the post
ofiice was re.muved to upper Chester.
CHESTER IN 18.59.
A directory of Chester published in 18.'39 gives the names
of one hundred and sixty -one residents of the town. This
would give a population at that time of about nine hundred.
The first name on the list is that of Amzi Andrews, druggist
in partnership with John L. Edwards. Those engaged in
the mercantile business at that time were John II. Allmyer,
Chirles C. Anderson, Jo.seph Bcare, Frederick Buckman,
Hermon C. Cole, Abner B. Cole, Alexander Dunn, James
H.Jones, Gabriel S. Jones, Hugh Loughran, John G. Mid"
dendorf, and John F. .Schuchert. Grocery stores were kept
by Charles Black, David Black.William Brunt,William Bun-
gle, William Clieman, E. and A. Phillip, Valentine Bitter,
and H. Iv. Stolle. Robert Adams, Enier.-on Gray, Uriah
McCullura, Adam Ochs, Henry Rader, John W. Reno
and Charles Schrader followed the cooper business. A.
A. Anderson was in charge of the Chester hotel, on Water
street, one square above the wharf boat. The Buckeye house
was kept by John C. McQuiston, the Planter's house, at
the corner of Front and Angle streets, by ^\ illiam McBrine,
and the Illinois house, opposite th-; wharf boat, by Casper
Horn. The lawyers were Thomas G. Allen, James C.
Halbrook, Thomas L. ^Morrison, Harvey Nevill and James
H. Watt. William Assman, C. J. Childs, William A. Gor-
don and A. H. Lieper represented the medical profession.
Hugh B. Nisbert was the publisher of the D>mocrut. Joseph
r>. Holmes is placed in the pages of the directory as a dealer
in real estate. Henry Tackeuberry and Charles Wassell
were carrying on the tailor business, and Captian C. C.
Wdliams, then as now, was managing the ferry.
The bank of Chester had for its cashier, C. Miltenberger.
Gahrs and Whitaker, and A. S. Palmer were dealers in
furniture Raymond Wheerly had a shop on the hill, near
the court house, where be repaired watchfs and clocks and
sold jewelry. The marble shop of ^lartin Dillon was down
by the river adjoining the dry goods store of J. H. and G.
S. Jones. C- I. Haskin was iu the livery business, also down
under the hill. Gabriel Jones was the mayor and a justice
of the peace. Richard B. Servant also filled the office of
magistrate. Horace Francis was street commissioner. The
" William Garvin,'' Alexander Ziegler, master, ran as a
regular tri-weekly packet between Chester and St. Loni-,
leaving Chester every Wednesday, Friday and Sunday
morning at seven o'clock. A stage line was then running
between Chester and .St. Louis, by way of Sparta, Athens
and Belleville, under the management of John M.
McCutcheon, of Sparta, who had the contract for carrying
the mail. The stage left Chester every week day at two
o'clock, reaching Sparta in the evening. Leaving Sparta
the next moringat six o,clock, passengers reached St. Louis
the evening of the same day. Churches*
SCHOOLS.
When the old public school-house was erected in 18.58. It
was spoken of as " an ornament to the place and a lasting
monument to the intelligent spirit of the citizens of Chester."
That building was of insignificant pretensions in comparison
with the one completed in 1882. The latter is a capacious
and handsome structure of brick. Beside the city of Chester
the school district includes portions of township seven, range
six, and township seven, range seven. In addition to the
•.\s the history of the churches are shown in the ecclesiastical chapter it is
therefore unnecessary to mention them hero
288
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
central school building there is a school-house in the first
ward used by colored children, and one in the third ward
used for a piimary school. Eight teachers are employed to
■whom during the year 1882-83 salaries were paid amount-
ing to thirty-seven hundred dollars. A Catholic and a
Lutheran school are also maintained which are largely
attended by the children of those denominations.
SECRET AND BENEVOLENT ORGANIZATIONS.
The oldest secret society in Chester is, Chester lodge. No.
57, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, which came into
existence in July, 1850. Randolph Encampment, No. 55,
originally established at Sparta in October, 1864, now meets
at (.'hestcr.
The ^Masonic order, shortly after the Odd Fellows, succeed-
ed in securing a foothold. Chester lodge, No. 72, dates from
1851. Servant was the first master, andStaleyand Joues
acted respectively as senior and junior wardens.
Herman G. Reynolds chapter, No. 84, Royal Arch
Masons, was instituted in October, 1865. It first met at
Kaskaskia, and was subsequently removed to Chester.
Randolph council, No. 44, Royal and Select Masters, was
charted in October, 1869, with nine original members.
Chester lodge, No. 1708, Knights of Honor, was instituted
in September, 1879 with twenty-two charfer members.
Jeflerson council. No 648, American Legion of Honor,
was organized in 1881, with twenty-six charter members.
The Vity Cemetery: — In August, 1843, the city, through
Amzi Anders >n and Seth Allen, trustees, purchased one acre
and three quarters of laud, on the west side of the Chester
and Evan;vil!e road, for a burial ground. The trustees were
directed to enclose the ground with a substantial fence, and
to lay off lots which were to be sold for five dollars each. This
with sub-sequent additions of laud, is the Chester cemeterj'.
The first body which here found a resting place, was that of
John Bowman, who died on the eleventh of October, 1843.
Among the conspicuous features of the cemetery, is a hand-
some monument to the memory of Governor Shadrach Bond,
erected by the State of Illinois. Governor Bond's remains
were removed from Kaskaskia to this place in 1880.
The first graveyard in Chester was on the summit of the
bluff, above Mugge's mill. Several of the early residents of
Chester were buried there. The placs was difficult of access,
and con.sequently a new location was selected.
The Tornado that swept over Chester on the morning of
the ninth of November, 1864, was the most destructive storm
with which the town was ever visited. The storm struck
the town between one and two o'clock in the morning. Its
violence was first felt in the neighborhood of the ferry land-
ing, whence it pursued its destructive course over the bluff.
The upper works of the ferry boat, the " Henry," were blown
completely away, and portions were afterwards found at
Coulterville, a distance of twenty eight miles. The smoke-
stack was blown up over the hill about a mile. Twenty-two
houses were blown down and damaged. Three persons were
killed. Col. Gabriel Joues, Chancery I. Haskin and an or-
phan girl living with Capt. Anson Morey. A number of the
citizens were injured.
Sotdhern lUinoU Penitenilary. — The act establishing the
Southern Illinois Penitentiary was approved on the twenty-
fourth of May, 1877. On the tenth of September, of that
year, it was decided to build the penitentiary (a view of
which is shown on another page) on a site about a mile above
Chester, on the Mississippi river, at the mouth of the Kas-
kaskia. In October, 1877, the erection of the first building
was commenced. This was a frame dwelling, below the
penitentiary, now used as the deputy warden's residence.
The same mouth (October) the contract for building a cell-
house and warden's-house was awarded to Baltes & Nelson,
of Fort Wayne, Indiana. The contract price of these build-
ings was ninety-five thousand and four hundred dollars.
The construction of a two-story brick building for the con-
finement of prisoners was commenced in November, 1877.
On the twenty-first of March, 1878, two hundred convicts
were received from Joliet, who were set to work on the con-
struction of the buildings. Beside the buildings already
mentioned, a large chapel, engine-house, tobacco-house, con-
vict kitchen, female prison, and laundry, barn and solitary,
have been erected, the work baing mostly done by prison
labor. The cell-house has room for eight hundred prisoners.
Most of the convict labor is let to contractors at a certain
amount per day.
The Sonihfrn IllinoU Stork anil Affrirultural Association
was organized in 1874. The original incorporators were
William Hartzell, William McAdam, John T. McBride,
William Swanwick, Guilford Warren, C. C. Williams, Wil.
Ham A. Gordon, John H. Lindsey, and George H. Tate.
The annual fairs have been the most successful in the south-
ern part of the State. The association now owns fifty-two
acres of land, of which one-half is enclosed. The oflieers in
1882 were: President, William A. Gordon; Vice-Presi-
dent, John G. Middendorf; Secretary, William Schuchert;
Assistant Secretary, Frederick Bueckman ; Treasurer, Isaac
Lahnherr.
Maniijiiclures. — One of the earliest manufacturing estab-
lishment in Chester, Cole's mill, is still in existence, and
forms an important element in the business life of the place.
It was establislied by Nathim Cole in 1837. Two years later
the mill was enlarged and improved. The mill is now well
supplied with new machinery, and his eight run of buhrs
and five sets of rolls. Twenty hands are employed. The
capacity is four hundred barrels per day. Two principal
brands of flour arc made, "F F F — G"' and "Cole's Mill."
From the time the mill was first put in operation, the flour
has been extensively sold in the South, and the sale of the
product is now divided between southern and eastern mar-
kets. A large stone warehouse and elevator, near the mill,
was built in 1872. The firm is known as H. C. Cole & Co.,
and is composed of Henry C. Cole, Zachary T. Cole, and
Charles B. Cole. A cooper shop, employing thirty hands,
and turning out seventy thousand flour barrels each year,
beside barrels for other purposes, is also connected with the
mill.
The Excelsior Mill of August Mugge was started in 1872
in a building near the river in lower Chester formerly occu-
pied as a brewery. It has two run of buhrs, and is mostly
288A
OPERA HOUSE.
Business PKOPZRTY Of JOHN F SCHUCHEftT, CHESTER, lU..
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
289
employed on custom grinding, though some flour is made for
shipment. Three hands are employed beside the proprietor,
and the mill makes from twenty-five to thirty barrels of flour
per day.
The Chester Foundry and Machine Shop was placed in
operation in 1868 by a stock company of which H. C. Cole>
Joseph B. Holmes aod Gabriel S. Jones were the leading
members. March, 1869, it was rented to Joseph Baron-
owsky, who in 1873 became the possessor of the property.
Mr. Baronowsky has since carried on the business. Iron
castings of all descriptions are made, and special attention
given to the manufaci .re of railings, hot-air furnaces and
other kinds of house work. Repairs to all kinds of machin-
ery are made.
The firm of Grace Brothers carry on the manufacture of
carriages, phsetons, buggies and spring w^agons. Richard B.
Grace began business in Chester in ISSO in partnership wiih
Edmund M. Montroy. The present firm, composed of
Richard B. Grace, Michael Grace and John J. Grace, was
established in 18'<2
Farm wagons and agricultural implements are made by
H. Herslibach -.V Bro., whose shop is lorated in Buena Vista.
Henry Hershbach began business in 1872, and the present
firm has been in existence since 1876. A specialty is made
of the manufacture of the Chester wagon. A Braecher has
also a shop for the manufacture of heavy wagons in
ISuena Vista. Joseph Poroorski is engaged in the
manufacture of farm and spring wagons in lower Ches-
ter. He began business in 18 9. Frank Gousman hss
carried on a wagon factory in the same part of the town.
The wood-work part of the business is now in charge of Fred-
erick Moller.
The manufacture of iron beam plows has been carried on
by Henry Lortz.
James Douglas is the proprietor of the Washington Mar-
ble Works. He has been engaged in this business longer
than any other man in Southern Illinois, having started in
St. Louis in 18.5.5, and since 1865 having been established at
Chester. He manufactures all kinds of granite and marble
work.
The Chester Monumental Marble Works are carried on
by Edward Howorth and Robert D. Burns. The present
37
firm has been in existence since 1875. From six to eight
hands are employed.
TOWN ORGANIZATION.
The citizens of Chester, on the 10th of February, 1835,
met at the house of Thomas Short to decide whether or not
to take advantage of an act of the Legislature authorizing
the incorporation of the town. Richard B. Servant was
elected President, and Joseph B. Holmes, secretary, but
there being no person present to administer the oath of office
to these gentlemen the meeting was adjourned. On the
succeeding twenty-fifth of April a meeting was held at the
house of Horace Francis, at which it was decided to incor-
porate the town. There were no votes in the negative.
From the adoption of town organization the government
was in the hands of trustees. The first board of trustees in
1835 were Richard B. Servant, President ; John Paschall,
Leonard Stevens, Horace Francis, Stacy B. Opdycke ;
Amos Emerson was subsequently elected in place of Op-
dycke, and Silas Leland in place of Paschall
INCORPORATION AS A CITY.
Iq 1855 the Legislature passed an act incorporating
Chester as a city. In October, 1855, the board of trustees
divided the new city into three wards. The first ward em-
braced that part of the city between the Mississippi river
and the north side of Buena Vista street ; the second that
part between the north side of Buena Vista street and the
south side of Church alley ; and the third ward comprised all
of the city lying north of the south side of Church alley. The
first election under the city charter took place on the 5th of
April, 1S56. The Mayor and Aldermen elected at that
time were as follows: ISoG — Mayor, Joseph Williamson;
-Mdermen — First ward, Richard H. Crittenden, Gabriel S.
Jones ; Second ward. Henry Stump, Isaac H. Nelson; Third
ward, Alfred Whitaker, Frederick Buckman.
As the names of the officers are all a matter of record, we
only give the names of the first trustees and the first and last
officers under the city government.
1882 — Mayor, William Schuehert, Aldermen — First
ward, Xelson R. Crain, E. C. Segar; Second ward, George
W. Staley, John Kennedy ; Third ward. Christian Wegner,
Isaac Lehuherr.
BIOGRAPHIES.
JOSEPH B. HOLMES.
Perhaps few uames are more familiar to the people of
Randolph and adjoining counties than that of Joseph B.
Holmes, and certain it is that none are treasured with fonder
recollections. He was born in Newville, Pennsylvania, on
the 1st day of April, 1809, and came to Kaskaskia, Illinois,
in the spring of 1829, to clerk for Mather, Lamb & Co.,
then doing business at that place. He removed with the
firm to Springfield the following year, and remained in their
employ until Oct 1st, 1833, having charge of their branch
store in Chester during a portion of the time. At the last-
named date he associated with Francis Swanwick and Ga-
briel Jones, Sr., also clerks in the employ of Mather, Lamb
& Co., and formed the co-partnership of Holmes, Swanwick
& Co., which for many years was the leading mercantile
firm of Southern Illinois. After 1839, Holmes and Swan-
wick pursued the business alone, with head-quarters at
Chester. They had branch stores at Steele's Mills, in Ran-
dolph county ; Brownsville, in Jackson county ; Pinckney-
290
ville, Frankfort, and Old Du Quoin. In addition to all
this, they operated several castor-oil mills, and handled the
produce of the greater portion of the territory from the
Wabash to the Mississippi. The firm was never dissolved,
but ceased to do business prior to the rebellion. Mr. Holmes
engaged in active business until his death on November 7,
1879, and at one time was one of the most extensive land-
holders in Randolph county.
He was married at Kaskaskia on the first day of ^larch,
1838, to Miss Mary Bond, second daughter of Gov. Shadrach
Bond, with whom he lived happily until her death, a year
before his own, July 19th, 1878. He left surviving five
sons and two daughters. He never held any public office
save that of Mayor of the City of Chester, which he filled
from 1865 to 1873. He established a reputation during life
among his fellow-men for unquestioned integrity of character
and high moral worth.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
291
Ju'lU^_^ LM<yhMrvCy4:J
The memory of none of the old citizens of Chester is
treasured more highly than that of John Swanwick, who
died September 15th, 1880, after having lived his fourscore
years. He was born in Chester, England, August 31st,
1799, and was the son of Thomas and Hannah Swanwick.
Thomas Swanwick, a tobacconist by trade, came to America
in 1818. The following year came his family of ten chil-
dren, fis-e sons and five daughters. They located in what is
now Perry county. Here they prosecuted the work of
farming. John had had four years' experience as a clerk
for Bolten, in the city of Liverpool. In 1826 he returned
to England, to take charge of an uncle's estate, and there
remained until 184-'>, when he came to Chester. He followed
merchandizing, and amassed considerable property. He is
a very earnest and active member of the Episcopal Church,
and gave largely of his time and means, to enhance its wel-
fare. His unquestioned integrity of character, his goodness
of heart, and life, endeared him to all.
292
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
(3-A^^ cy/i f^^'^
William Schuchert, of Chester, is one of the enterpris-
ing business men of Randolph county. He first took up his
residence in Chester in 1848, and has been in business for
himself since 1867. His native place is Ottendorf, Hanover,
Germany, — here he was born Sept. 28th, 1832. His educa-
tion was obtained in the public schools of his native town.
When si.xteen years of age he was brought by his father to
America, and for a time was left at New Orleans, whilst his
father made his way to Chester, where he afterwards joined
him. In 1849 he returned to Germany for his brother John
F., having saved sufficient out of his wages of |10 per month
to nialse the trip. He returned, arriving in Chester in Nov.
1849. In 18.52, he went to California, returning in 1858.
For a time after his return he clerked, then became propri-
etor of a store, in which bu.siness he has since remained.
He was married to Louami F. Castellow in April, 1860.
The Castellows were originally South Carolinians, and came
hither via Tennessee. Mr. Schuchert was elected Mayor of
Chester in April, 1881, the duties of which office he is dis-
charging with great credit to himself and adopted city.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
293
eiP^
Few men work more earnestly fur the general prosperity
of towns of their adoption than J. F. Schuchert. Born in
Germany, Feb. 3d, 18:>7, — the year 184.H finds him a resident
of this country, whither he was brought by an elder brother.
He obtained a good common-school education, and for several
years clerked in stores of various kinds for different peo|)le.
His first experience for himself, independent of the counsel
of others, was as a retail grocer, then in general merchan-
dizing. For two years he followed wholesaling in groceries
at St. Genevieve ; then, in 1S77, returned to Chester. He is
the proprietor, as he was the projector, of the elegant 0])era
House elsewhere shown in this work, and is the owner of
several buildings used for various purposes. He was first
married to Elizabeth Hoppe, February 15, 185G. She died
May G, 18G'2, and on the 18th of March, 18G3, he was mar-
ried to his present wife, Saletha Ford. Mr. Schuchert is a
man of enterprise, push, and ambition. Any mooted im-
provement in his city finds in him a friend and abettor.
Ready as ho is with voice and purse to aid any good under-
taking, he is popular with his fellow-citizens.
294
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
/^^/dJt^ydy^
Was born in Churchville, Pictou county, Nova Scotia,
February 15, 1844. He is justly proud of his ancestry.
His grandfather, Alexander, a highly educated man, came
from Scotland to Nova Scotia, where even to this day a
common quotation with the people is "As Deacon Macken-
zie said." He could not, in his American home, give his
sons like advantages he possessed in the old country
although the best possible part was done by them. Alex
ander, jr., the father of the subject of this sketch, now
eighty-four years of age, still lives in the old homestead
Around him, the farthest not more than seven miles distant,
are his four married daughters, Margaret, Nellie, Elizabeth
and Isabelle Ann. Of the five sons, Alexander is a drug
gist in Chester. John, a valiant soldier, was killed in the
battle of Fort Donelson. Daniel, who was first a Lieuten-
ant, then Captain of Co. D, 80th Regt., 111. Vol., died in
Fredericksburg from disease contracted in the army. Thomas
died in New Brunswick. Kenneth died in Nevada and
the doctor is practicing in Chester. The maiden name of
Alexander's wife was Elizabeth Macmillan, a daughter of
William Macmillan who was pressed into the British service
during the war of 1812.
Dr. Wm. R. Mackenzie came to the United States,
landing in Boston in 1865. He had prior to this taught in
the home school. From Boston he went out on a fishing
expedition, full of adventure and incident, returned to
Boston and thence to Sparta, Illinois, in 1867. Here he
studied medicine and recited iu Greek and Latin with Rev.
Stuart. He graduated from the Medical Department
Michigan University in March, 1870. He at once com-
menced the practice of his profession in Ann A.rbor, Mich.,
with his preceptor, Chajjin, where he remained but a short
time, returning to Sparta, then to Kaskaskia and in 1875 to
Chester, where he has since resided.
On the 17th of May, 1875, he was married to Miss
Nellie M. Gordon, daughter of Dr. Wm. A. Gordon, one of
the oldest and most popular physicians of Randolph county.
Two children bless this union. William A., born Novem-
ber 22d, 1877, and Robert, June 3d, 1882.
The doctor is a member of the Masonic and Odd Fellows
organizations, of the Knights Templar, CyreneCommandery
No 23, Centralia. He is an earnest, active, Republican.
As a physician he takes high rank in his profession: as a
citizen he is eminently social.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
295
-y-^^-HyO^^^
Was born ia Central Precinct, four miles west of Sparta,
Randolph county, April 24tli, 185S. After attending the
district school several years, he entered the Sparta High
School in 1873, from which institution he graduated in lx~'),
in a class of eight — the first class graduated from that
school. He was chosen the first President of the Alumni.
In 187G he entered Bryant it Stratton's Commercial College
of St. Louis, where he remained but a short time, being
called home to enter his father's office, that of Sherifl', a.s
clerk. The day he reached his majority his father surprised
him with the appointment of Deputy Sheriff. He was ma--
ried to Miss Catharine Dauer, daughter of John and Mar-
garet Dauer, April 29th, 1880. She died August 28, 1881,
leaving a child to survive her, little Rosa.
In 1880, although but twenty-two years of age, Mr. Ger-
lach was elected Sheriff of Randolph county, on the Repub-
licn ticket. He was at the time the youngest man elected
in Illinois to so responsible a position, and is believed to
have been the youngest Sheriff in the United States. The
duties of the office he discharged with signal ability. The
nomination was made in convention by acclamation The
democrats nominated one of the best and most popular citi-
zens of the county, John L. Taggart The contest was most
e.xciting, and resulted in his election by 71 majority.
At present, Mr. Gerlach is a committee clerk in attend-
ance upon the Legislation of the State. He is well (lualificd
to fill any position of public trust, possessing as he does en-
ergy, pluck and earnestness. Courteous and generous he
has hosts of friends.
296
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
K^^^^^/yfT^^^^^^
Welcomed to America's shores are representatives of
every nationality. The Emerald Isle has furnished many
thousands who have contributed no little to her prosperity.
Almost every community numbers sons of Erin among its
population. No better representative can be found in Ches-
ter than he whose name \ifA% this article, and whose
portrait graces this page. He was born in county Galway,
November 15, 1837. He was the son of Philip and Mar-
garet Devine; his mother's maiden name was Redington.
Mr. Devine came to America, landing in New York city
February 20, 1854 ; remained a few months in the city with
friends, then went to Richland county, Wisconsin. In the
spring of 1857 he went to St. Louis, and for about a year
followed the river between that city and New Orleans. In
1858 clerked for Hugh Dolau, in the liquor industry ; after
a few months, returned again to the river, and remained in
this employ until after the battle of Pittsburg Landing ;
thence to Cairo, where he obtained a position as clerk in a
boat store. Here he was married to Julia Woodward, of
Clinton, Kentucky. In 1869 he moved to Grand Tower,
where he went into the ice trade, which industry he has since
successfully followed. His wife died Sept. 4, 1874, and on
Feb. 23, 1876, he was married to his present wife, Ida Jones.
In 1876 he was elected coronor of Jackson county ; in 1879
moved to Chester, where he has since resided.
:o6A
,; / |-^Tjt::4l:-i f- r-'
RESIDEMCEOF Mif M. C. D£. »OUSS£, CMESTCK ILLINOIS, KESIDENci Of M" F i'h^ ^-il ^'^csTeh
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
297
Almost -two eenturies ago (lfiS6) the first family of the
name Derousse came from France to settle in Kaskaskia.
Their descendants have accomplished much in behalf of the
old lown,each generation of their numher furnishing some
representative men. The subject of this sketch whose por-
trait heads this article, was the son of Pierre K. Derousse,
Louis was born in Kaskaskia, August 28th, 1816. At six-
teen he was bound ivs an apprentice to the cabinet making
business, and worked at that business till he was twenty-one.
In November, 1842 he was married to Elizabeth Ungerwho
died in February, 18<iO, leaving four children. In April,
38
18.36 he was married to Mary Mauger, of New Jersey yet of
French blood. By this marriage there were born four
chihlren. Elizabeth, now in attendance at school, in Bell-
ville, Leon, who was two years in St. Joseph College, in
Teutopolis, Napoleon and John F.
Mr. Derousse filled various offices of profit and trust
with credit to himself and friends. He was widely known and
highly respected. He died May 2d, 1878. His widow, a
woman of more than ordinary intelligence is doing an excel-
lent part by her children and the estate left her through
the decease of her husband.
298 HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
^- ^, ^^.rt^i^rz^^'^ ,
Mr. Holbrook comes of good old Puiitanic stock, his
ancestors having come to New England in 1040. More than
a hundred farms are now to be found on the original home-
stead of the Holbrook's, near Sherborne, Massachusetts.
His parents were Clark and Betsey (nee Bullene) Holbrook.
Clark was a druggist, with which occupation he combined
farming. J. C. Holbrook was educated at Brattleboro, Ver-
mont. He left his native State in 1836, St. Louis, Missouri,
being his objective point, thence to Ohio, where he studied
law in the office of George Bell, in Hamilton, Butler county.
Here he was married to Eliza McDill, daughter of Kev.
David McDill, May 15, 1845. By this marriage there are
now four children living, Mrs. Clara H. Smith, an authoress
of commanding ability, living in Chicago ; Edward E., a
druggist in Chester, Elizabeth, and Lydia. Mr. Holbrook
entered the army in 1 802, and was made pay-master, with
rank of Major. From exposure, during the war, he became
physicially disabled, thus greatly lessening his powers and
abilities as an attorney, and finally compelling abandonment
of the profession he honored.
Maj. Holbrook is a genial gentleman ; a fine conversation-
list; a ready debator, and fiue lawyer.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
299
^ J" ^-fYo^/C^
Dr. Pollock, oceofiheold established and popular phy-
sicians of Randolph county, began practice in 1855. He is a
native of the county, having been born at Sparta, iu Sep-
tember, 1829. The doctor received his early education in
Sparta, in 1848, began the study of medicine with Dr. Joseph
Farnan, who had located in Sparta in 1830, and was a lead-
ing physician forraany years. In 1851 he entered St. Louis
Medical College, from which institution he graduated. In
1853, by the misfortune of losinghis eyesight, he was compel-
led to undergo treatment, contiuuingtilll855,and which pre-
vented him from entering on his anticipated professional ca-
reer, until that time. His vision restored, he began practice
in Sparta, in connection with his old preceptor. Dr. Farnan.
Of Dr. Pollock's career, as a physician, it is only neces-
sary to say, that it has been one of uniform success. He
largely combines the qualities requisite for the skillful and
popular practitioner of medicine. In 1857, he took up his
residence in Chester, where he has since been most active in
his profession.
300
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
^^c ^
QriTE a colony of enterprising citizens came to Raudolph
County early in the present century, 1804 from Sovith Caro-
lina whose ancesters were from the northern part of Ireland,
and yet earlier from the mountain portions of Scotland,
among them was the grand father and father of the subject
of this sketch.
William McBride, the father, was a substancial farmer,
who had, by his industry acquired a good competency, and
was always considered as one of the leading men in his sec-
tion, in everything pertaining to schools and the general
interest of society, leaving to his children the valuable
injunction— " Be useful and you will be happy" He filled
various offices of trust and honor, among others, that of
Capt. ofa Company of Rangers in 1812; County School
Superintendent; Member of County Board; and represented
his district in the State Legislature. He died in 1856 in
the seventy-second year of his age, and was laid by the side
of his wife Eliza, daughter of William Nelson, who was
also an early pioneer settler, in the Nelson Cemetery, four
miles south of Red Bud
John T. McBride, was born March 15 1838, on his father s
homestead in the western part of Randolph County. He
was the ninth in order of birth ofa family of ten children.
His earlier years were passed upon the farm attending
school during the winter months. In 1858 he taught school ;
about this time an accident befell him which caused him to
use crutches much of the time for three years. A horse
running with him fell backwards upon him crippling him in
the ankle. Rheumatism set in with the above result. During
this time he taught school and in 1860, was elected Assessor
and Treasurer of the county and re-elected without any
opposition in 186-2. In 1864 he was elected Sheriff, and
again in 1868. In 1873, his brief rest from public service
was broiien by his being elected County Clerk, during which
time, at the urgent request of many friends he served a term
as Mayor of the City of Chester, but could not be induced
to agree to re-election. At the end of his term as Clerk,
he refused being a candidate for re-election, prefering re-
tiring in order to devote himself to his private business. But
in 1878 at the strong solicitation of many friends, and against
his own wishes at the time, he consented to accept the nomi-
nation of his party for Representative, and was elected a
member of the State Legislature from this district. In 1880
he received (he nomination of his party, for State Senator,
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, M OX ROE AXf) PERRY COUXTIES. ILIJXOIS.
301
and was only defeated by a small majority, caused by too
great a confidence of himself and friends at the election, and
the general political Tidal Wave, of that year, which in
many places swept away large majorities; in each of these
various positions, he acquited himself with market ability,
being uuiver:ally regarded as an efficient and faithful public
officer.
He was married to Miss Mary A. Wilson, a daughter
of one of the early settlers, April 21st, L'^oll ; she died De-
cember ^•'^th, 1861. By her he had a daughter; Eliza G.
who is now a highly respected teacher in the Red Bud
schools.
His second marriage took place March 4ih I'^To. Mary C.
Smith was the former name of his second wife; she was born
and raised iu Chester and was the daughter of Davis Smith ;
a son hy this union .•survives, William K. S. McBride. She
died Jan. 2ilth, 1^70.
Mr. McBride was the third time married to Mrs. Mary E.
Givin, March 1st, l>>si. She was a Brown, and like
himself this is her third marriage. Her first husband
having been A. V. Burk and her second James Givin, bjlh
highly esteemed and early settlers of Randolph County.
Mr. McBride has been a steadfast Democrat in p')litics,
and has always taken an active interest in pal)lic affairs. His
honesty and integrity of character together with a general
disposition to make himself useful, by being a live active
worker in every thing to advance the interest, and promote
the prosperity of his county and section, and his frank,
jovial manner, with his friends form the basis of his popu-
larity. He is a man who never bstrayeJ a trust ; he has
been faithful to the interests of the county, to his party and
evcrv confidence reposed iu him.
Anil although generous to a fault, he has by his industry
and perseverance, acquired a good competency, and is to day
one of the substantial citizen of the ojiity, occupying a
worth V place, among those iu the front rank who are enjoy-
ing the highest marks of populiar esteem.
MATLACK AND WASSELL
Are the publishers and editors of that recognized leader
among Republican journals of southern Illinois, the Chester
Trilninc. They are both young, energetic, determined men.
J. B. Matlack was born in the city of St. Louis, Mo., June
7, l."<47. His parents were William L. and Harriet A.
Matlack, the one a native of New Jersey, the other of Ma-
ryland. When sixteen years of age Mr. Matlack entered
the office of the the " Star of the West," at Sparta, to
learn the printer's art ; thence to Chester, where he engaged
on the " Picket Guard " as a typo ; then to the " Clarion "
office, where he worked off the first copy of that paper.
Next to Belleville as assistant foreman in the " Advocate"
office, when patent outsides were issued therefrom. The
business management of the Nashville Journal was intrust-
ed to him in l'^7(). This paper he bought in 1872; sold
out to Wassell Brothers, and went into the State Auditor's
office, Springfield, 111., iu 1«76. In 1««1 he bought the
"Tribune," in connection with Wassell. He was married to
Emily Wassell of Chester, October IS, 1.S69; by her he has
two children living, one dead.
James F. Wassell is a native of Chester, where he was
born May 10. 18.")t!. Charles Wassell, his father, is a mer-
chant tailor of tiiis city. James learned the printer's trade
in the home offices. In various capacities he has been con"
nected with the Nashville Journal, (of which he became
part proprietor in 187(>),and a paper in Petersburg, Menard
countv. where he was foreman In 1880 he returned to his
home, and in l'S81 became associated with Mr Matlack in
the management of the Tribune.
They are making a fine succe-«s of their paper, possessed
as they are of thorough practical knowledge acquired by
long experience in the work, and of a familiarity with the
expectations of the reading public in a paper's make-up
It is fast becoming a recognized power iu behalf of Repub-
licanism throu'jhout southern Illinois.
WARKI.N N. WILSON.
The ranks of the legal profession are largely recruited
from among farmers' ambitious sons. Such an one was
Warren N. Wilson. He was born February ><ih, l."S"21, on
the present site of the village of Baldwin. His parents
were James and Jennie WiLson, {iwe McBride.) They were
natives of this county. George Wilson his grandfather was
one of the pioneers, coming here as he did in 180G. The
Wilsons were study, energetic men, possessed of that vim
and push so nece.-sary in reaping success from frontier
life.
Warren N. Wilson obtained in the home schools a fair
education, and having detern)ined to leave the path his
father before him had trodden, i. e. farm life, fur profes-
sional labor, entered Shurtlifi' College, Upper Alton, Illinois,
where he attended three years He next commenced
the study of law with Harizel and Johnson, and in
1S77, after passing a highly creiiitable examination, was ad-
mitted to practice at the bar. Recognizing his emnient
fitness for (lischargug the duties of the office, Judge Watts
appointed him Master in Chancery in 1880, a position he
yet holds and the duties of which he discharges with fidelity
and care. Early in life Mr. Wilson espoused the cause of
Democracy and vigorously defended its principles. His
first Presidential vote was cast for Horace Greeley. He
entertains the faith of his fathers, being, as were they, a
member of the Presbyterian Church. His wife's maiden
name was Helen Crittenden, a daugliter of Richard Critten-
den of old Kentucky. She adorns her station in life with
the true grace of a daughter of Kentucky. By her Mr.
Wilson has two bright children, John Tliurman and Edmond
Crittenden by name.
In the practice of his profession Mr. Wilson is earnest,
pains-taking and is winning a fair share of practice; as a
citizen lie is a social, high-mindeil, and true to his friends.
302
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
H. C. HORNER.
Few young men throughout the State of Illinois have
made more rapid advancement in their profession than the
subject of this sketch. Dependent alone upon his individ-
ual exertions, unaided by fortuitous circumstances, he has
acquired a position at the bar that commands respect. To
the local bar he is known as the "Arkansaw traveler," having
been born in Lawrence county in that Slate, October 23,
1834. His father, Benjamin Horner, was a native of Penn-
sylvania, a merchant by occupation. His mother, whose
maiden name was Mary Merriweather, was an Alabamian.
In 1860 the family came to Chester, where Benjamin died
in March, 1861. Mrs. Mary Horner is still living. H. C.
Hcrner was educated in the Public Schools of Chester. At
the age of sixteen he entered the school-room as a teacher.
In this work he continued until the time of his admission at
the bar. During the time he bent his energies to a mastery of
the elements of legal knowledge studying with Hartzell and
Holloway and with Alexander Hood. In June, 1877 he
passed such an examination as entitled him to enter the Ksts
as a practitioner of law. Accepting the saying of Webster
that there was "plenty of room in the upper story " he has
worked faithfully to accomplish his ends. As a lawyer he
is clear, incisive and forcible. Feeling, as have many
fellow-members of his profession, the necessity for a treatise
on he set to work and gave the profession a valu-
able and exhaustive work. Ever studious he avails himself
of every means to enhance his knowledge. For a time afier
his admission he was associated with J. Perry Johuson, but
since 1880 he has been alone.
He was united in marriage with Miss Mary Fleming,
November 28th, 1877. Politically, Mr. Horner is in full
accord with the principles of the Republican party, and has
been an active participant in its successes.
WILLIAM A. CAMPBELL.
TflEpresent efficient and popular Treasunr of Randolph
county, was born near the village of Blair, Randolph
county, January 12, 1848. His ancestors on his father's side
were among the pioneers of the county, having come from
Abbeville, South Carolina, in 1807. His father, Andrew J.
Campbell, was a practical unassuming farmer. His mother,
whose maiden name was Mary Caudle, was born in this
county. Her people were originally from South Carolina.
William A. Campbell obtained a fair, district school educa-
tion near the place of his birth, which was supplemented by
a commercial course in Jones' Commercial College, St. Louis,
Missouri, from which institution he graduated in 1878. For
several years he tad been a teacher in common schools, be-
ginning in St. Clair county. For three terms he taught the
home school. In 1871 he entered upon mercantile life in
Blair, which he prosecuted quite successfully until 1877,
when he again entered the school room as a teacher. Dur-
ing much of his life he has been more or less engaged in
farming. He was married to Miss Mary J. McKee, daugh-
ter of S. C. McKee,of Blair, October 8, 1874. By this union
there has been born one child, whof e name is Samuel Andrew
Jackson Campbell, perpetuates memories of hisgrandfatbers
Politically, Mr. Campbell has ever been an active, consistent
Democrat His first vote was cast for Greeley, in 1872. His
eflTorts in behalf of Democratic success received recognization
upon the part of party friends and associates, who nominated
him as candidate for County Treasurer, in 1882. In the
November election he was chosen by a majority of three
hundred and thirty-four votes. He is a member of the Ma-
sonic order ; courteous to all ; pains-taking as an official, he
is fast proving himself to be the " right man in the right
place"
ABRAM G. GORDON.
The legal profession attracts to its ranks a fair share of
the youth of our land. In Randolph county many have
tried its experiences — some doomed to failure, others to
meet success. Of this latter class is Abram G.Gordon, who
was born in the vicinity of Percy, Nov. 6, 1849. His family
is of Scotch and German descent. A brief course of in-
struction gained in the public schools of his district was
supplemented by a thorough scientific course taken in Mc-
Keudree college, Lebanon, Illinois, from which institution he
graduated in 1871, receiving his degrees in both the scientific
aud law departments. He at once returned to Randolph
county and commenced the practice of his chosen profession
in the village of Steelesville. In 1874 he moved to Chester,
where in March, 1875, he associated himself with Alexander
Hood. The firm received a fair share of the business of the
county. For a time these parties practiced separately, until
recently, when they again united their destinies under the
firm style of Gordon & Hood. Mr. Gordon was the first
prosecuting attorney of Randolph county after the creation
of that office, the duties of which he discharged for a period
of several months with credit. He has gained a promising
place at the bar by virtue of close application to business,
unremitting eflfort and studious habits. His private char-
acter is above reproach, and his relations cordial with his
friends and acquaintances He was married to Miss Clara
J. Short, a native of Randolph county, in November, 1872.
Mr. Gordon is a Democrat in his political principles, and
has voted generally for the candidates of that party ever
since attaining his majority. His industry is fast gaining
for him a large and lucrative practice, whilst his eminent
fecial qualities make for him hosts of friends.
WILLIAM M. HOLMES,
Editor and proprietor of the Valley Clariun, Chester, Illinois,
is a native of Randolph county, having been born here
November 5th, 1856. His father, of whom portrait and
sketch can be found elsewhere in this work, was Joseph B.
Holmes, a native of Pennsylvania and early settled here, hav-
ing come to Kaskaskia in 1829,wherehe prosecuted milling
and merchandising. His mother was a daughter of Gov.
Shadrack Bond. The remains of both were laid away in
Evergreen cemetery, Chester.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
303
William M. Holmes chose the profe?sion of law and pur-
sued its study with Messrs. Hartzell and Morrison and was
admitted to practice iu 1878. Soon after he made au ex-
tensive western trip, occupying a year and a halfs time.
Returning he bought *he Valley Clarion and entered upon a
journalist career. He is making the Chirioii the leadinsj
democratic journal of southern Illinois. As a writerof political
articles, Mr. Holmes wields a graceful pen, and is forcible
and vigorous. In compilation of news he gives particular
attention to local correspondence, a feature that makes his
paper a welcome visitor to many homes.
KASKASKIA
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
I HE exact date of the founding of Kas-
kaskia cannot be stated with certainty.
It has been supposed that members of
La Salle's party stopped here on their
way back from their voyage of discovery
to the mouth of the Mis.sissippi in 1682,
and gave rise to the present town- The
conjecture has also been made that
Tonti here established a trading-post in 1686. The evidence,
however, seems conclusive that the birth of the town arose
from the transfer of the Jesuit mission from the banks of
the Illinois river to this spot about the year 170O.
This mission was established by Marquette in the year
167.3. Its site was the Indian village of Kaskaskia, near
the present town of Utica, in La Salle county, Illinois. The
Kaskaskia Indians then inhabited that region. After the
death of Marquette, Father Claude Allouez had charge of
the mission at different periods from 1677 to 161)0. From
16(11 to 169.'> Sebastian Rasle was the priest, and he was
succeeded by James Gravier. The latter was ardent and
enthusiastic in his work. He reduced the language of the
Illinois Indians to grammatical rules, and made many con-
verts among the savages to the Christian faith. The journal
of Gravier, written in the years 1693 and 1694, shows that
the mission, at that period, was still located on the l)anks of
the Illinois. Fathers Bineteau, Piuet and Gabriel Marcst
labored there as missionaries in 1699. Letters and journals
written in 1699 and 17l»il indicate that u|) to the latter year
the mission retained its original site. Its removal to where
the town of Kaskaskia now stands, likely, took place in the
autumn of the year 1700, when the Kaskaskia Indians, to
escape the ravages of their powerful and warlike enemies,
the Iroquois, journeyed to the South and founded their vil-
lage near the mouth of the river to which they gave their
name.
For the first years of its existence Kaskaskia obtains
little note except as a mission station. Its history is chiefly
drawn from the parish records, now in the keeping of the
bishop of the dioce-se, and the letters and journals of the
early priests Its population was increased by the arrival
of hardy French voyageurs from Canada and adventurous
immigrants direct from France. Marriages between the
French and Indians were frequent. Marest was joined in
1707 by Father Merniet, who had previously labored as a
missionary at the great village of the Peorias. Mermet,
whose health was feeble, remained at the village for the in-
struction of the Indians ; while Marest, who describes him-
self as "so constituted that I can run on the snow with the
rapidity with which a paddle is worked in a canoe, and who
have, thanks to God, the strength necessary to endure all
these toils, " roamed through the forest with the rest of the
Indians, who spent a great part of their time in the chase-
" Our life," he writes, " is spent in roaming through thick
woods, in clambering over hills, in paddling the canoe across
lakes and rivers, to catch a poor savage who flies from us,
and whom we can tame neither by teachings or caresses."
The labors of these missionaries are not without their
fruits. In 1820 the Illinois Indians are spoken of as nearly
all Christians. They cultivated the ground iu their own
way, and under the influence of religion had become indus-
trious, raising poultry and live stock to sell to the French.
The women were adroit, weaving of buffalo-hair a fineglos-ty
stuff, which they dyed of various colors and worked into
dresses for themselves, manufacturing a fine thread with
great ingenuity. A parish was regularly formed in 1719, of
which in 1720 Father Nicholas Ignatius de Beaubois had
charge. Separate missions were established. One " about
half a league above Old Fort Chartres, within gun-shot of
the river," was under the direction of Father Joseph Ig-
natius le Boulanger, who is spoken of as a man of great
missionary tact and wonderful skill in languages. His Illi-
nois catechism and instructions in the same dialect for hear-
ing mass and approaching the sacraments, were considered
by other missionaries as master-pieces, and, for their benefit,
were literally translated into the French language. Boul-
anger, in 1721, was assisted by Father de Kreben. Another
Kaskaskia village was six miles inland from the Mississippi,
and of this Father John Charles Guj'monneau, who, it ap-
pears, was the leading authority of the church in Illinois,
had charge. On the organization of Louisiana as a colony,
Illinois became subject to its government, and the superior
of the Jesuits at New Orleans had the superintendence of
the Illinois mission.
The first military occupation of the village was late in the
year 1718, when Pierre Du/jue Boisbriant, commandant at
the Illinois, arrived witli a detachment of troops. He did
304
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
uot, however, long make the place his residence. iSelecting
a site for a military pest on the bank of the Mississippi, six-
teen miles above Kaskaskia, he set his men industriously to
work, and by the spring of 1720 had completed Fort Char-
tres, which thenceforth was the residence of the commandant
and the centre of military authority. About 1718 the vil-
lage sprang into new life, and the arrivals from France and
Canada were numerous.
In 1721 a monastery and college were established by the
Jtsuits In 1725 Kaskafkia became an incorporated town,
and Louis XV, the French king, made a grant of commons
to the inhabitants.
THE PARISH RECORDS.
During this period the records speak of baptisms, wedt
dings and deaths, and thus some idea is obtained of the social
life of the place and the names of its principal citizens. In
theearly baptisms it is noticeable that the names of the women
are mostly Indian, though oecasioDally both parents are
French. On the register in 1720, apptar the signature of
Le Sieur Pierre D'Artaguiette and Le Sieur Sirardot
the former captain, and the latter, ensign of a company
of troops, both godfathers at baptisms. D'Artaguiette
was the gallant young French officer who subsequently
became ccnimandant at the Illinois, and in 1736, led an
expedition against the Chickasaws, which resulted in his
capture by the enemy and his death at the stake.
In 1721, the register is signed by Le Sieur Nicholas
Michel Chassin, ccmmissary of the Company of the West,
in the country of the Illinois, and Le Sieur Phillippe de la
Renaudiere, director of mines for the same company, both
leadirg men in the colony. The rites of the church fre-
quently sokmnize marriages between Frenchmen and Indian
women. The wedding of a native of Brittany with Anne,
a female sa\age of the Nachitoches tribe, in 1724, is wit
nessed by Giiardot and other citizens, and in 1726, the mar-
riage of Jacques Hyacinthe, of the Pawnee nation, and
Therese, a freed savage woman of the Padoucah tribe, is
celebrated. In 172.5 two Indian chiefs, one the head of the
Tamaroa tribe, make their marks as witnesses of the mar-
riage of a Frenchman with a German woman. The names
ot the witnesses to the mariiage of Joseph Lorrinand Marie
Phiilipe, on the twentieth of October, 1727, shows that it
was one of the notable social events of the day.
The Chevalier Vinsenne, commandant of the port on the
Wabash, where the city of Vincennes now stands, and one
of his officers, St. Angefils, made their toilsonje journey by
river and through forrest, to sign their names ou the regis-
ter and to dance at the wedding. A long entry ou the
seventh of January, 1748, tells of the wedding of Monsieur
Joseph Buchet, " Principal Secretary of the Marine, Sub-
delegate of Monsieur the Commissary Ordonnateur and
Judge at the Illinois," once a widower, and Marie Louis
Michel, twice a widow. The ceremony is performed by
the Reverend Father Guyenne, Superior of the Missions of
the company of Jesus, in Illinois. The Chevalier deBertel,
major comraandiog for the King at Fort Chartres, and
Benoi^t de St. Clair, captain commanding at Kaskaskia, are
among those who sign their names as witnesses. Afterward
follows the wedding of the daughter of Sieur Leo-
nard Billeri)nt, royal notary at the Illinois, with the son
of Charles Vallee. The last name will be recognized as that
of a family conspicuous in the early history of Kaskaskia,
representations of which may still be found throughout the
Mississippi valley. In April, 1873, occurs the marriage of
Phiilipe Francois de Rastel, Chevalier de Rocheblave, to
Michel Marie Dufresne. daughter of Jacques Michel Du-
fresne, officer of Militia. This Rocheblave became
became commandant of the Illinois, after the cession of the
country to Great Britain, and was the last British Governor.
In July, 1778, he was taken prisoner at Fort [Gage, by
George Rogers Clark, who took possession of the Port in
the name of the Thirteen American Colonies, then engaged
in their struggle for independence from the British crown.
Although the Kaskaskia Indians and others were friendly,
there is evidence that depridatious were frequently commit-
ted by members of hostile tribes. An entry on the parish
register in 1722, reads as follows: The news has come here
this day of the death of Alexis Blaye and Laurent Bran-
sart, who were slain upon the Mississippi by the Chicka-
saws." Immediately afterward comes a statement that ou
the twenty-second ot June of the same year was celebrated
in the pari.^h church at Kaskaskia, a solemn service for the
repose of the soul of the lady Michelle Chauviu, wife of
Jacques Nepven, mt rchant of Montreal, aged about forty-five
years, and of Jean Michelle Nepven, aged twenty years, and
of Elizabeth Nepven, aged thirteen years, and Susanne Nep-
ven, eight years, her children. They were slain by the
savages from five to seven leagues from the Wabash.
THE EARLY FRENCH SETTLKRS
in Kaskaskia, included Bazyl Lachapelle, Michael De Rousse,
Baptiste' Montreal Boucher De Mon brun, Charles Danie,
Francis Charlesville, Autoine Bienvenu, Louis Buyal, Alexis
Doza, Joseph Paget, Prix Pagi, Michael Antoyen, Laiiglois
De Lisle, and families by the name of La Deroutteand Noval.
Bazyl Lachapelle came from Canada in company with
eleven brothers, but he alone remained permanently in Kas-
kaskia. Antoine, Louis and Baptiste were his sons. Mich-
ael De Rousse was the ancestor of the most numerous French
family in Illinois. In France the home of the family was
the village of St. Pierre, and frohi this circumstance its
early members in Illinois were called St. Pierre De Rousse.
Michael DeRousse was the father of Michael, Joseph, Phillip,
Jerome and De Bordeau, each of whom left descendants.
Jean Baptiste St. Gemme, called Beauvais, from the fact
that the family came from Beauvais in France, became a
resident of the village about 1750. Capt. Pitman, in 1766,
speaks of him as the wealthiest citizen. He purchased the
property of the Jesuits on its sale under the decree for the
suppression of the order. He kept eighty slaves, and fur-
nished eighty -six thousand pounds of flour "to the King's
magazine," which was only part of his harvest for one year.
He left six sons, Raphael, Antoiue, Charles, Joseph, Vitol
and Baptiste. Raphael and Charles became citizens of
Louisiana, and Antoine of Arkansas. Vitol and Baptists
304A
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUXTIES, ILLINOIS.
;iO-)
were among the early French settlers of St. Genevieve, and
left numerous desfendents in that part of Missouri. Raph-
ael St. Gemme took part in the defense of Fort Duquesne,
and was among the French force which defeated Gen. Brad
dock in 17.55. Baptists Montreal came from Canada, and
was a man of industrious and quiet disposition. Boucher
de Montbrun became one of the prominent citizens of Kas-
kaskia. His wife, who belonged to the Lauglois family,
was a woman of much beauty and respectability. Charles
Danie was a quiet farmer. The earliest grant of land of
which there is any record was made to him on the tenth of
May, 1722. Francois Charlesville was among the early ar-
riva s in the village from Canada. He engaged iu the river
trade to New Orleans, and by his industry, shrewdness and
energy amassed a considerable fortune. His four sons were
Francois, Baptists, Charles and Louis. Autoine Bienvenu
reached the village from France by way of New Orleans,
and brought with him abundant means,
Kaskaskia in 176(5 is spoken of by Capt. Pitman of the
British array, " as by far the most considerable settlement
in the country of Illinois, as well from the number of inhabi-
tants as from its advantageous situation." The water-mill
bult by Monsieur Paget, on the site of the present Reiley's
mill was in use at that time both for grinding corn and
sawing boards. The principal buildings in town were the
church and Jesuits house to which a small chapel was at
tached. These were built of stone, as were some of the other
houses in the village," and in the opinion of the writer made
a good appearance, " considering this part of the world."
The Jesuits plantation contained two hundred and forty
arpents of land, well stocked with cattle, and with abrewery .
Tbis property was sold for the crown by the French com-
mandant, after the country had been ceded to the English
under the decree for the suppression of the order of the
Jesuits. The population of the village, in 17()li,is placed at
sixty-five families, " besides merchants, other casual people
and slaves."
The cession of Illinois to Great Britain deprived Kaskas-
kia of many of its wealthy citizens. Some removed to St.
Genevieve, and others joined in founding St. Louis. It is
supposed that one-third of the inhabitants left the village.
These removals took i)lace about 1765, at which time the
British troops took possession of Fort Chartres. The terri-
tory had been ceded three years previous, but the fact for
some time was not generally known. By taking up their
residence west of the Mississippi, these people sup|)osed they
could remain under the French Government though, in fact,
by a secret treaty made in 1762, the country west of the
river had been cede<l to Spain. On Clark's conquest the
citizens of the village readily transferred their allegiance
from Great Britain to the sea-board colonics. Indeed, some
enthusiasm for the American cause seems to have been shown
by the leading inhabitants. A militia company volunteered
to assist Clark in the capture of Cahokia, and Father Gib-
ault visited Vincennes and induced the inhabitants there
to sever their relations with the British government and to
take the oath of allegiance to the commonwealth of Virgin-
ia. Kaskaskia in 1778, is said to have been a village of
39
two hundred and fifty houses. If this statement is true
it shows a considerable growth from 1766 when Capt. Pit-
man reported that sixty-five families resided here, " besides
merchants, other casual people and slaves." Capt. Pitman's
enumeration, however, was taken at a time when the popu-
lation was doubtless at its lowest ebb, on account of the re-
cent hegira of wealthy families, with large numbers of slaves,
to the west side of the Mississippi to escape the English rule.
Up to this time the population of Kaskaskia was wholly
French. The great part of the families had come from Canada,
and some up the Mississippi direct from France. After the
conquestby Clark there began an immigraticm from the coun-
try east of the Alleghenies. Enterprising merchants seized
upon the advantages of the place as a trading point ; English
blood becaraeinfused into the village; and theslow and sleepy
life of an exclusive French settlement gave way to the vigor
of Anglo-Saxon methods. It was during this period, the
half century succeeding the American Revolution, that
Kaskaskia made its greatest progress and reached the zenith
of its prosperity.
FORMER PROMINENT CITIZENS.
Among the men who assisted in inaugurating the new era
was John Edgar. By birth he was an Irishman. He had
been an officer in the British Navy, and at the beginning
of the revolutionary war resided at Detroit, his wife was an
American by birth, and her sympathies were warm for the
colonial cause.
The British commander at Detroit seized Edgar, on ac-
count of his openly expressed sympathy for the American
cause, and he was sent as a prisoner to Quebec. On his way
there he escaped near Montreal, and found his way within
the American lines. Remaining for a time with the army
of the colonists, he then sought greater safety in the wilds
of the west, and in 1784, settled at Kaskaskia. His wife
joined him two years later with twelve thousand dollars
which she had saved from the confiscation of his propert}'.
This was the necleus of a large fortune. For many years he
was the wealthiest citizen of Illinois, and paid more taxes
then any other person in the territory. He adopted a mer-
cantile career, and his store contained a large stock of goods.
He rebuilt Paget's flouring mill, which had fallen into a
ruined condition, and before the year 1800, made large
quantities of flour which he shipped to the New Orleans
market. He was large and portly in person and genial
and benevolent in di-position He was elected a member of
the legislature of the North Western territorj' which con-
vended at Chillicothe, Ohio, during the administration of
Gov St. Clair. He was appointed by the Uniteil .Statas,
Major General of the Illinois militia, and at the annual
general musters deported himself with great dignity. On
the organization of St. Clair county in 1790, he was made
one of the judges of the common pleas court, and thence-
forward his name frequently appears on the court records
for more than a quarter of a century. Tiie Edgar mansion
on Elm street, the ruins of which could still be seen a few
vears ago, was one of the finest residences in Kaskaskia, and
was the resort of distinguished visitors. On Lafayette's visit to
306
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
the place in 1825, a reception was given in its parlors in his
honor. Mrs. Edgar, a woman of grace and accomplishments,
was the acknowledged leader of the fashionable society,
which made Kaskaskia gay in the old days of its prosperity.
Gen. Edgar died without children in 1832.
John Doyle, who had been a soldier under Clark, returned
to Illinois with some of his comrades, and settled in Kaskas-
kia in 1781. He made some aspirations to learning, and
understood ihe French and Indian languages, as well as the
English He taught school and his name deserves to be
perpetuated as perhaps that of the first American who en-
gaged in the occupation of a teacher in Illinois. Soon
afterward, John and Israel Dodge became residents of Kas-
kaskia. The latter was the father of Henry Dodge, who
served in the United States senate from Wisconsin, and the
grandfather of A. C. Dodge, Senator from Iowa. The
Dodge family in 1794 removed to St. Genevieve, and manu
factured salt on the Mississippi, a few miles below St. Gene
vieve, at the mouth of Saline creek
William Morrison for years the leading spirit in commer-
cial circles in Illinois, made his home in Kaskaskia in 1790.
He established the firm of Bryant and Morrison long known
as one of great wealth and high standing. His partner was
his uncle, Guy Bryant, a resident of Philadelphia. The
main store, both wholesale and retail, was at Kaskaskia.
From it the merchants of St. Louis, St. Genevieve, Cape
Girardeau and New Madrid, supplied themselves with goods.
His trade extended from Kaskaskia around to Pittsburg, to
Niw Orleans, Prair'e du Chien, and the Rocky Mountains.
He was a person of vast energy and superior business facul-
ties. For many years he carried on a heavy commerce on
the Mississippi between Kaskaokia and New Orleans. His
boats were the largest and the best that up to that time had
ever stemmed the waters of the Mitsissippi. He accumulated
a large fortune. In 1801 he built a fine stone house on Elm
Street and furnished it in a costly and elegant manner ; it
was considered the best in the Illinois country. He died in
April 1837, and was buried in the old grave-yard.
Robert and James Morrison, brothers of William, came to
Kaskaskia in 1798. They both became prominent and distin-
guished citizens. The wife of Robert Morrison {nee Miss
Donaldson) was a lady of much refinement and culture. She
frequently wrote for the papers on political and other sub-
jects.
One of the most distinguished and worthy citizens of
Kaskaskia was Pierre Menard. He was born at Quebec, in
Canada, in the year 1767. His father was an officer in the
French service. He reached Vincennes in 1786, and was
employed by Col. Vigo as agent in the Indian trade. In
1789 he accompanied Vigo across the mountains to Carlisle,
Pennsylvania, where they had an interview with President
Washington, relative to the defence of the western frontier.
In 1790 he came to Kaskaskia, where he established a store.
For many years he acted as Indian Agent for the United
States Government, and also in several instances was
appointed commissioner to negotiate Indian treaties. The
Indians bad great respect and affection for him. He carried
OH an extensive trade with several tribes, and it was said
that, at any time, an Indian would prefer giving Menard
his peltry for nothing than to receive double value for it
from a long knife American. In the early history of Illi-
nois Menard was foremost in almost every enterprise. He
was elected one of the representatives from Randolph
county to the Legislature of the Indiana territory in 1803,
and attended the legislative sessions at Vincennes. He was
a member of each territorial Legislature of Illinois from
1812 to the organization of the State government in 1818,
and during this time served without interruption as presi-
dent of the legislative council. He is said to have presided
over this body without parade or show, but with great
common sense, and to have fostered wise and equitable
laws for the growing commonwealth. He was elected the
first lieutenant-governor of the State. Menard county, on
its organization in 1839, was given its name in his honor.
By his mercantile business and investments in land, he ac-
quired a large fortune, which, to some extent, was dimin-
ished by his liberal disposition and desire to accommodate his
friends, many of whose debts he was obliged to pay. His
first partner, on coming to Kaskaskia, was a gentleman of
Vincennes named Du Bois. In 1808 he became a partner
in the great trading company of Emanuel Liza, for which
he transacted business among the Indians in the Rocky
mountains. The firm of Menard & Valle was established
about 1824, and carried on a mercantile business, chiefly
with the Indians, for several years. He died in 1844. The
house in which he lived is still standing on the east side of
the Kaskaskia river, just below the town. Of his children,
Edraond Menard alone survives.
In the year 1795 Francois and Hypolite Menard followed
their older brother, Pierre, to Kaskaskia. The former be-
came a noted navigator of the Mississippi, and secured a
reputation for judgment, courage and skill as a boatman, not
surpassed by that of any other habitue of the river. Hypo-
lite Menard was a farmer in the point below Kaskaskia,
and an estimable and popular man. He was elected in
1828 a representative from Randolph county in the Sixth
General Assembly.
John Rice Jones, the first lawyer' that ever practiced
before the Illinois courts, became a citizen of Kaskaskia in
1790. He was a Welshman by birth, and from Philadel-
phia, where he had enjoyed the acquaintance of Benjamin
Franklin, Dr. James Rush and other distinguished men^
removed to Vincennes in 1787. Further mention of Jones
is made in the article on Bench and Bar.
Dr. George Fisher, one of the early physicians, became a
citizen of Kaskaskia in 1798. He was a Virginian by birth.
He was the first sheriff of Randolph county, a member of
the first and third territorial legislatures, in which he served
as speaker of the house of representatives, and delegate in
1818 to the convention which framed the first constitution
of the State. Among the other physicians was Dr. William
L. Reynolds, who came from Bracken county, Kentucky^
and settled at Kaskaskia in 1809. He was a man of good
professional education and ability, and for a long time stood at
the head of his profession. Dr. Truman Tuttle came in 1802
as surgeon in the United States Army. After the removal of
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
307
the troops he remained at Kaskaskia and practiced hia
profession, linth he and Dr. Reynolds removed to Cahokia.
Dr. James Rose reached Kaskaskia from Kentucky in the
year 1805.
To the town belongs the distinction of being the home of
the first Governor of the State of Illinois, Shadrach Bond.
He was born in Frederick county, Maryland, in the year
1773, and in 1794 came to Illinois with his uncle, Shadrach
Bond, settling in the American Bottom in what is now
Monroe county. He was elected a member of the legisla-
ture of Indiana territory, in 1812 the first delegate to Con-
gress from the territory of Illinois, and afterward was
appointed receiver of public monies at the Kaskaskia land
office. He removed to Kaskaskia in 1814, and made a
large farm west of the village. The house in whi^h he
lived may still be seen. At the expiration of his term of
office he became register of the land office. He died in
April, 1830. He was buried at his farm. His grave being
threatened by the encroachments of the Mississippi, his
remains, within a year or two, have been removed to the
cemetery at Chester, where the State has erected a fitting
monument to his memory.
Of the early lawyers. James Haggin came to Kaskaskia
in 1.H04, Benjamin F. Doyle in 1805 and John Rector in
1801). Haggin returned to Kentucky, and there became a
distinguished lawyer. Doyle served as attorney general for
the territory in 1809. Nathaniel Pope, the first secretary
of the territory of Illinois, come to Kaskaskia in 1804. He
resided at St. Genevieve till 180H, and then returned to
Kaskaskia. He was territorial secretary from 1809 to
1816, and in 1817 and 1818 was the delegate to Congress.
On the admission of the State into the Union he was made
judge of the United States district court, and held that
office for more than thirty years. He removed to Alton in
l'<44, and died in 1850. His son, General John Pope, now
of the United States Army, was born in the Bottom near
Kaskaskia. Elias Kent Kane began his brilliant career as
a young lawyer at Kaskaskia in 1814. He was a native of
New York, and a graduate of Yale college. He was
appointed by Governor Bond secretary of State on the organ-
ization of the State government in 1818. (See Bench and
Bar for further sketch).
Sidney Breese came to Kaskaskia in 1818, and Gen.
James Shields located here in 1«32 as a school teacher.
Thev both became prominent in politics and eminent jurists.
(A more extended sketch of these gentlemen may be found
in the chapter on Bench and Bar.)
KASK.A.SKIA SINCE 1800.
In the last century Kaskaskia was essentially a French
village. The French style of architecture prevailed, and
rows of low one-story houses lined the streets. The only
brick house in the place was built about 1750 with bricks
brought in boats from Pittsburg. Gradually the old French
exclusiveness broke away, and a few years before 1800 the
leading places in business and society began to be taken by
men of English blood. Early in the present century a large
floating population poured into the town. Immigration to
Illinois had set in rapidly, and every new settler directed
his course to Kaskaskia, from which point he explored the
country and selected his location. From 1810 to 1820 the
town probably contained more people than at any other
period of its history. A census taken at that time showed
a popu'ation of seven thousand. Its merchants carried on a
heavy trade, and an air of bustle and activity pervaded the
streets. About 1820 other towns began to spring up; it
was no longer the center of immigration, and gradually and
quietly it lost its importance, and gave way to rival settle-
ments. The flood of 1844 gave the finishing blow to ita
prosperity. Many of the inhabitants left after that disaster.
It was the seat of government of the Territory of Illinois
from 1>>09 to 1818. It was the county seat of Randolph
county from 1795 to 1848. The first newspaper was estab-
lished here in 1809, by Matthew Duncan.
After the time of Morri.son, one of the leading mercantile
firms was that of Menard &. Valle, composed of Pierre
Menard and Jean Baptiste Valle. They began business
about 1824 They also carried on a store at St. Genevieve,
where Valle lived. Their trade was chiefly with the Dela.
ware, Shawnee, and Peoria tribes of Indians in Missouri and
Arkansas. They owned part of the stock of the American
Fur Company. They sold guns, ammunition, strouds, and
other articles of Indian use, and received in exchange fura
and peltries. Their trade was remunerative, and out of it
they were said to have made half a million of dollars.
Mather, Lamb & Co. carried on business at the same time
with Menard & Valle. This firm had for its members
Thomas Mather, Stacy B. Opdycke, James L. Lamb, and
Edmund Roberts. A branch of their business was estab-
lished at Chester on the commencement of the growth of
that place, and the members of the firm subsequently be-
came residents of Springfield. Hugh H. Maxwell also had
a store during the same period. He was a native of Ire-
land, and a man of some education. He married Mary O-
Menard, a daughter of Pierre Menard, in the year 1><11.
He did ui 1832. His widow survived him thirty years. In
more recent years George W. Staley was one of the mer-
chants of the place. His store was burned down. William
and J. P. Lakeuan were engaged in the mercantile business
before 1><44, and removed to Chester. Thomas Short was
another merchant. Gustavus Pape, who now has the only
store in the place, has been in business for many years.
Among the physicians in former days was Dr Josiah P.
Betts. He was successful in his practice. Soon after Chi-
cago began its growth he went there, but returned t^) Kas-
kaskia about the year 1S44, and a few years subsequently
died. Dr. Thomas M. Hope became a resident of the place
about 1836. He married a daughter of Judge Nathaniel
Pope, and removed to Alton Dr. James Burch, previous
to his death in 187'<. had practiced his profession at Kas-
kaskia for many years.
In 1844, before the flood of that year, the town was more
than twice as large as now. The population, by the census
of 1880, was three hundred and fifty. It is now not more
than two thirds of that. The washing away of the neck of
land separating the Mississippi and Kaskaskia rivers, in
308
HISTORY OF BANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
April, 1881, placed the town on an island, and took away a
considerable portion of its trade. The bank of the Mis-
sissippi was once three miles distant. The river has
gradually crept to within a mile of the village, and further
encroachments are feared. Some of the pld buildings still
remain. On Chartres street is the old hotel, a large build-
ing with porch fronting the street, and a spacious room in-
side in which balls and parties used to make gay the social
life of the village. In the dining room La'ayette sat down
to a bounteous collation in 182.5. Farther up Chartres
street, on the corner of Poplar, is the brick building in
which the Bank of Kaskaskia, chartered by the legislature
in 1817, transacted business. Its walls are now leaning and
threatened with destruction. It was originally built for a
dwelling, and it was once the residence of Elias Kent Kane
It was used for a time, also, as the United States land office,
which afterward transferred its location to a frame building
across the street.
The old state hou.se, in which the territorial and state
legislatures held their sessions, stood on the north side of
Elm street, the second block above the residence of William
Morrison. It was a store building. The legislature is also
said to have met in the second story of the building now
occupied by Pape's store. This is one of the oldest build,
ings that have survived from ancient times. The old county
court house has been rebuilt, and presents a modern appear-
ance It is used as the public school building. A brick
house on Elm street, above the site of the state house, is one
of the oldest buildings still in existence. It was once the
residence of Mr. Ayrondale, magistrate and register of the
land office. • In a stone house eas-t of the old convent site an
Indian chief, Louis Duquoin, lived many years. On his
death he was buried in the Catholic grave yard. Raphae'
Widen, a clerk for Menard k Valle, and a justice of the
peace, also lived and died in this house.
In place of the log mission chapel built on the establi.-h-
ment of the mission, a stone church was erected as early as
1720 at the expense of the French government. This was
replaced in 1774 by another structure, which was taken
down in 1801 on account of a fissure in its walls. The next
church building stood till 1838, when it was likewise demol-
ished. The present church was built in 1843. In it hangs
the old bell, cast at Rochelle in France in the year 1741,
and sent to Louis Buyat, by him to be given to the infant
church in America. It was the first church bell that ever
rang west of the Allegheny mountains.
The Convent of the Ladies of Visitation was established
at Kaskaskia in May, 1^83, by a colony from the parent
house at Georgetown, District of Columbia. . With it was
connected Menard Academy, patronized with much zeal and
benevolence by Pierre Menard. A large building was
erected for the accommodation of its inmates. It was
opened for pupils in 1836. During the kvi years of its ex-
istence it enjoyed a high reputation. The flood of 1844
compelled an abandonment of the institution.
Two attempts have been made to bridge the Kaskaskia.
The first bridge was built about the year 1824 by William
Morrison It was constructed of trestle work, and after beii g
used a year or tw o, fell to the water. The second bridge was
erected by the Kaskaskia Bridge Company, whose capital
stock was twenty thousand dollars, of which the county sub-
scribed one fourth. Work was commenced on the structure
in 184U. It consisted of three spans, and on the west side
was to be a drawbridge The plan on which it was built
was deficient, and in May, 1843, before it was opened for
general u.se, it fell by its own weight. A ferry has been
maintained across the Kaskaskia from an early date in the
history of the town. The franchise was formerly owned by
Pierre Menard, and it is now in the possession of his son
Edmond Menard.
The old records of the town have been destroyed. For
about thirty-five years no officers were elected under the
charter. In 1871 it was resolved to revive the town govern-
ment, and Julien Chenu, the only surviving member of the
old board of trustees, made appointments to fill vacancies in
the board. On the 24th of May, 1873, the citizens voted to
incorporate as a village under the general law.
To the town of Kaskaskia belongs the Commons, com-
prising nine thousand acres of rich land in the point between
the Kaskaskia and Mississippi rivt rs. About seven thousand
acres is capable of cultivation. Three thousand acres are
now under lease, and furnish a liberal income to the village
for school and church purposes. Under the old management
all the inhabitants had equal access to the Commons for
pasturage and fuel. By an act of the legislature passed in
1854, the citizens were authorized to elect five trustees every
two years, who should exercise charge of the Comtuous, lease
portions thereof, and apply the proceeds to church and
school purposes only. The first trustees to serve under this
act were Savinien St. Vrain, Edmond Menard, Dennis Kav-
•anaugh, Joseph Baronowski, and Adam Feaman. The
Common Field was also originally owned jointly by the vil-
lagers, though each resident was assigned an individual por-
tion. The United States commissioners, in 1809, determined
the rights of each citizen, and the lots have since been held
in fee simple.
The business interests are now represented by Gustavus
Pape as general merchant and postmaster. Donatus Beiter
deals in drugs, and Charles M. Wheeler in drugs and gro-
ceries. Dr. H. M. Boldt is the only physician. Beside the
public school, there is a school conducted under the care of
the Catholic church.
KASKASKIA POINT
Embraced a rich body of land below the village of Kas-
kaskia, between the Mii-sissippi and Kaskaskia rivers, occu-
pied by the Common Field and Commons of Kaskaskia.
Two ferries over the Kaskaskia river furnish easy access to
Chester. The town of Dozaville, on the Mississippi, was
projected by William Doza in 1872. There is a general
store, of which the proprietor is Leon E. Delassus, also the
owner of a saw mill. A drug and grocery store is kept by
E. Ellison. It is without a postoffice, mail matter being
received at Kaskaskia.
308A
FARM RiSlDENCE OF J M CRIoLLR^StLJb T 6^ R 7, (CHESTER PRECINCT) RANDOLPH CO. ILL.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
309
LAND OFFICE AT KASKASKIA.
We append the following letter received November 2"),
1882, from the Commissioner of the Genaral Land OtHee.
Washington, D. C, in regard to the land office at Kaskaskia :
" Gentlemen : — In reply to your letter of the 16th inst.,
requesting information concerning the land office at Kas-
kaskia, Illinois, I have to inform you that the land district
was created by Act of Congress approved March 26, 1804,
and it was discontinued by order of the President dated
November 12, \6'y5. The transfer of the records to the
office at Springfield was effected on February 25, 18.')6.
I a'U unable t) furnish you with a complete list of the
names of the officers prior to 1821 for the reason that this
office was formerly a branch of the Treasury Department,
and the records then in that Department were destroyed by
fire in 1832. A partial list, however, was obtained from
other sources, and the following embraces all the data I am
able to give you.
Nichohi!* .lonos, commissioned March", U'.'I.
Shadrach Bond " January 28, 1823
Miles Hotchkiss " April 30,1832
Jacob Fearman " June 20, 1844
Ferdinand Maxwell " September 24, 1849
Daniel P Robert,'! " March 2S, 18,1.1.
Each of these officers retained his position until the ap-
poii tnient of his successor.
Edward Humphries, e.inilnissioneil March 5, 1821.
Samuel Crawford, " .4ugusl r,, I«4u
Richald B. Servant, " March 17, 184.1.
J.*n A. Lannlois, " August 2, 184.1.
E7.ra C. ( otTey, " June 8, 18.-.0.
William Adair, " hm.- 3, 1S54.
From original papers on the files of this office datingfrom
1804 to 1809, the names of Michael Jones and E. Backus
appear as Register and Receiver, and in 181.) Michael Jones
and Shadrach Bond appear as holding the office of Register
and Receiver respectively. I regret that I am unable to
furnish you more specific information.
Very RespectluUy,
N. C. McFarland, Comraitsioner.
FORT GAGE
During the progress of the war with the Chickasaws and
other hostile Indian tribes, a fort was built on the high hill
opposite Kaska-skia for the defense of the town. The date of
its construction was the year 17.'56. Of its size and strength
tradition gives no information. In 1756, during the old
French and English war, it was repaired and strengthened,
and occupied by a French garrison. From that time to the
present the bluff on which it stood has borne the name of
Garrison hill. In 1766 the old fort was destroyed by fire,
and soon after another was built on the .same spot by the
English. Its shape is described by Capt. Philip Pitman
as that of an oblong quadrange, of which the exterior poly-
gon measured 21t() by 251 feet. It was constructed of very
thick squared timber, dovetailed at the angles. Within the
walls were a stone magazine, the conimaiulant's house, and
other smaller buildings. On the abandonment of Fort
Chartres in 1772 the British garri.son occupied the fort to
which the name of Gage had been api)lied in honor of the
commander-in-chief of the British forces in America. On
the night of the 4lh of July, 1778, it was captured by Col.
Clark. The garrison then consisted of twenty soldiers un-
der command of M. Rocheblave, the British commandant in
Illinois. Its approaches were guarded by four cannon. The
records of the English possession of the country are said to
have been destroyed on the night of the surrender by the
wife of M. Rocheblave, so that many val liable documents
belonging to that period were lost. While ('olouel Clark
remained in Illinois he occupied the fort as his headquarters.
At the close of the war of the Revolution the fort remained
unoccupied until liSOl, when it was garrisoned by a detach-
ment of United States soldiers. Colonel Pike's regiment
was stationed here for a short period. It was soon abamloned.
The walls crumbled and fell to the ground and the building
decayed. The lines of the fort are now marked by embank-
ments of earth. The parade ground north of the fort is
grown up with timber. The site commands a beautiful view
of the Kaska.-'kia and Mississippi rivers, and the adjacent
bottom.
^ '^^^^¥^t^'
BIOGRAPHIES.
LOUIS J. DEROUSSE, Jr.
One of the younger representatives of the family of that
name, so conspicuous during the past in the history of Ran-
dolph county, was born in Kaskaskia, September 22, 1854,
being the son of the late Louis Derou.sse, w ho was for many
years a well known citizen of this town. His father died in
1878. A portrait and sketch may be found of him on
another page of this work. He has followed farming and
mercantile persuits all his life. On the eighth of November,
1881, he was married to Miss Odial M. Chann, daughter of
Joseph M. and Sophia A. Chann. Captain Chann was for-
merly the proi)rietor of the landing on the Mississippi river
a few miles from Kaskaskia, and known as Kaskaskia land-
ing.
Louis J. Derous.se is following the footsteps of his de-
ceased father, in that he is an office holder. He was elected
constable in 1881, a position his father had held many years
before. He is an ardent working Democrat, a member, to-
gether with his wife, of the Catholic church.
310
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
S^^yn-U^ ^^or>e(_:^
There are names cherished with pritle by every lover of
the early history of his commonwealth. Among such iu
Illinois is that of Menard. Pierre Menard, a Frenchman,
came to Kaskaskia in 1790. Remarried Angelique Souci,
in 1792. He traded with the Indians, taking their furs,
pelts, etc , in exchange for goods, also engaged in farming.
He was a prominent citizen, and took an active part in every
public enterprise. Upon the organization of the State, he
was elected Lieutenant-Governor. His father, John Menard,
fought at Quebec under Montgomery. Edmond, a son of
Pierre, was born in Kaskaskia, February 7, 1813. He in-
herited much of his father's disposition. In 1837 he was
elected a member of the Legislature, which then convened
at Vandalia, and was continued during the first session after
the removal of the capitol to Springfield. He has followed
merchandising and farming. His neighbors held him in
high esteem, be ause of noble qualities, and generous, im-
pulses, prompting him to deeds of charity. The poor of the
old town of Kaskaskia, recognize in him a benefactor and
friend. His little acts of kindness, such as supplying a dis-
tressed family with meat or provisions, furnishing them with
horses to enable them to drive the plow, etc., are many, and
treasured in memory of all who know him. Among his fellow-
citizens and to each one of them he is "Uncle Edmand."
So much is said of his father and family in the pioneer and
other chapters of this work, owing to their great prominence
that a lengthy sketch is deemed unnecessary in this connec-
tion.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
311
J. -f dJu^-^^
One of the prominent farmers and large landholders of
Kaskaskia bottoms, is Joshua G. Burch. He was born in
Nelson county, Kentucky, November 15, 1815, and has been
a resident of Randolph county since 1840. His ancestors
were Virginians. In 1770 they located in Kentucky, where
they were compelled to live in a fort for protection against
the Indians, at that time John H. Burch, the father of the
subject of this sketch, was a mere lad.
Joshua G. Burch was married to Bridget Tewel, April
11th, 1837. She was a native of Ireland, but had been prin-
cipally raised in Kentucky. By her he had eight children,
four of whom are living. She died October 12, 1875, and
on the thirtieth of September, 1876, Mr. Burch was married
to Catherine Allen.
To him belongs the credit of having brought the first
wheat drill to the county, also the first thresher. The bring-
ing of the thresher caused as much excitement then as would
a circus now. The third 3'ear after the sowing of the first
wheat introduced into the vicinity of Kaska£kia, he threshed
out twenty-nine thousand bushels with his new thresher. He
devotes much of his attention to the raising of stock, and
now in the evening of life rents out large areas of his farm-
ing lands to tenants. He is a Democrat of the old Jackson
stamp.
312
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
DR. H. M. BOLDT.
Germany, the land of scientists and philosophers, has fur-
nished this country thousands of men of culture and erudi-
tion. Of college professors, lawyers, and physicians, not a
few have taken high rank in the country of their adoption.
Lovers of the patriotism that comes of American institutions
of the liberty thereby extended, they annually come in great
numbers. Dr. H. M. Boldt, a young man, belongs to this
class; he was born in Dantsic, Germany, July 1.5th, 1851-
Obtained a liberal education, not alone in his native State,
but in Berlin, where he completed his college course. In
1872 he learned to love American institutions from know-
ledge gathered respecting them, and announced to his father
his determination of crossing the sea. His father thought
he was joking, and up to the very hour of his departure
would not have it otherwise. Arriving here, he set about
mastering the English tongue, then selected medicine as his
chosen profession. Most assiduously did he persecute his
studies; he entered the office of Dr. Tuholski, in St. Louis,
where he remained several years. In 1879 he graduated as
Doctor of Medicine from McDowell College, St. Louis.
The same year found him in old Kaskaskia ready to prac-
tice. The field had been recently vacated and he was
anxious to try his powers. Right rapidly has he grown in
the estimation of the people among whom he has cast his
lot. A student from force of habit, he leaves no investiga-
tion, once undertaken, until a proper understanding has
crowned his efforts. As a physician he is gaining a good
practice, in which he is giving eminent satisfaction. Based
upon his knowledge of American institutions, he is an ardent
Republican, and cannot understand why any of his fellows,
prompted by motives similar to his own, coming from
Germay, can be anything else. His characteristics briefly
summed up are earnestness, enthusiasm, laborious research
and the exercise of sound judgment.
CHARLES M. WHEELER.
Among citizens of Kaskaskia who have contributed no
little to the rejuvenation of that time-honored spot, none has
worked more faithfully than Charles M. Wheeler. He was
born in St. Genevieve, Missouri, January 4th, 1844. His
parents were James M. and Mary Wheeler. His father
was a Londoner, and came to America when he was but
fourteen years of age ; he died in Kaskaskia April 4th, 1860
after a residence of about thirty years. His mother, whose
maiden name was Mary Boarman, died Sept 1.5th, 1846, and
is, together with her husband, buried in Kaskaskia Cem-
etery.
Charles M. attended first the public schools of Kaskaskia
and subsequently the seminary at Connewago, Penna.,
which he entered at the age of fourteen. Here he studied
the classics and after three years returned home to enter the
employ of Riley as clerk. After a short time he went to
Kansas City in the same manner of business. Under force of
circumstances he joined the rebel army under General Price.
Prior to his doing this he had written a letter to a sister in which
he used the expression, " I hope the North will send down
enough men to bring South Carolina back; she had no
business to secede." Despite his Union sentiments, freely
expressed, he found himself compelled to enter the
Southern army. His command surrendered to General
Cauby at Shreveport, Louisiana, in 1865. He remained a
year in Louisiana in attendance at school at Mt. Lebanon
for a year thereafter, returning to Kaskaskia in 1867, since
which time his life has been spent in clerking and merchan-
dising in Kansas Cty, Memphis and Kaskaskia. He was
married to Miss Mary Reily, Sept. 1st, 1869. By this
union there have been born five children. In 1881 he pur-
chased the drug store he now manages. In 1873 he was
elected a Justice of the Peace, an office he still holds. He
is an ardent, active Democrat, politically, and is quite prom-
inent in conventions of that party, being generally a dele-
gate. During the last campaign he was made chairman of
the Democratic Central Committee for the county.
FLORENCE
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
N Township 6, R. 7 West, lies Florence
precinct. It has many natural advan-
tages, in the respect to good soil, and a
plentiful supply of timber, admirably
adapting it to the growth of all the grains
grasses and fruits. It is drained by Nine
Mile creek and its tributaries. Little
Nine Mile, and Robison creeks. The
Kaskaskia river, bounds its western
side, and affords a means for transporta-
tion of its products. Evansville bounds
it on the north, Blair and Chester on the
east, and Chester and Kaskaskia on the
south. It is from the number and charac-
ter of the pioneers though, that much of the interest
attached to this precinct derives its origin. Ellis Grove on
section 17, in the middle of the western part has long been
renowned. Here improvoments were made as early as 1780
by settlers who had formerly been soldiers under the famous
Colonel Clark. The names of these old settlers were John
Montgomery, Joseph Anderson, John Dodge, John Doyle,
David Pagon, M. Augustus, James Curry and Levi Teel.
This settlement on which, at first, a few small farms with
their humble cabins served to sustain and shelter the pioneers
was almost broken up before the year 1790.
The year 1797 marked the advent of one of the most no-
ted and promiuent pioneers, a man who was the hero of
numberless exploits with the Indians, who had been one of
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
813
C)lonel Clark's old soldiers, when he made his march to the
Wabash iu 1778, and who took part with General St Clair
in his disastrous defeat in 1791. This was Stacy McDonough.
He was born in the state of New Jersey, and was of Scotch
descent. A natural backwoodsman, fond of the rifle, he
seemed to court danger. In 1793 while passing down the
Ohio river on a boat which he commanded, he received a
wound from a shot in the shoulder by the lurking savages,
which afflicted him through life, still he was undaunted and
always engaged in some perilous exploit. He served with
General Anthony Wayne, whose disposition suited him.
During the war of IM "J, heiarried the mail from St. Louis to
bhawneetown, though a route thickly beset with dangers
from the hostile Indians, but the danger did not deter him,
and he made his trips regularly. He was a Captain in the
ranging service, and proved a man of marked ability, and
one of the moit popular men in the new settlement. He
lived on a farm where he first located nearly half a century
and died deeply mourned. He left two sons, James and
David ; the former settled on the lower end of Gposrum<len
Prairie, about the year 1820. David lived on the farm made
by his father.
Ill 179S Jonathon I'ettit another noble specimen of the
pioneer, came to the settlement, and was a valuable acquisi-
tion. He erected a mill on Nine Mile creek, at a point where
the Chester and Evansville road crosses it. He was an
active and leading man, and was prominent in all important
movements. He joined the Rangers, in 1812 and discharged
his arduous duties in a highly creditable manner. His sons
were David, Henry, Jonathan and Joseph. Among the
first emigrants to the county after 1800, was Rooert Rey-
nolds from Tennessee, and originally from Ireland. He
located first in Kaskaskia and alter a short time came to the
sctllenieiit of Hughs and Pillar.^. He became a leading man
and filled several important officers. After a residence of
twenty years he went to Madison county where he died. He
was the father of John Reynolds, who afterwards became
Governor of the state, and Thomas Reynolds who became
an eminent lawyer and Judge. George Franklin who came
to Illinois in 1801. settled on a farm in section 22, T. 0, R. 7
W. John and Ephraira Bilderback came to Illinois in
1802. Ephraim made a farm in the region of the settle-
ment on the east side of the Kaskaskia river, about one mile
north of Riley's mill. They soon became representative men
and were noted for their ability and industry. Their descen-
dants are numerous, and are now scattered in every direction.
In 1811, there came to the .settlement a man named John
Young, who located on a farm near Ellis Grove. Stephen
Yuung who lived in the same neighborhood was his son.
John Young arrived in company with Harmon's family
James Milligan living on section 21. T. 6, R. 7 W., is the
son of David Milligan who emigrated from North Carolina
to Tennessee, and thence to Illinois in 1812 He first settled
f lur miles south of Pinckneyville, on Four Mile Prairie,
and after a years residence there, removed to where Si)arta
now stands. He rais d a family of nine children, five .sons
and fiiur daughters, Fergus, James, David, Hezekiah and
William were the names of the sous, and Elvira, Sarah,
40
Mary and Martha were the names of the daughters. James
Milligan is the second son, and was born in North Carolina,
March 4th, 1801. He came with his father to Illinois
in 1><12." In 1821 he married Nancy McDjnough, a
daughter of Stacy McDjnough before mentioned. Mrs.
Milligan was born March 17th, 1808, on the old McDonough
place within a mile of where she now lives. He served in
the Black-Hawk war. One of the early settlers in the
vicinity of Ellis Grove, was William Fisher, a son of Archi-
bald Fisher, who came from Scotland to America some time
before the Revolutionary war, and settled first in South
Carolina and afterward in Tennessee, where his son William
married Ann White. He was the father of the Archibald
Fisher, who received his grandfather's name, and was born
in Tennessee. In 1804 William Fisher moved to Randolph
county, Illinois, and settled a few miles northeast of Ellis
Grove. Archibald was at this time a boy of three years.
The Bollinger Family were among the early settlers of Ran-
dolph county. They were natives of Tennessee, where they
were a numerous and well known family. Daniel Bollinger
came with his father to Ellis Grove about 1828. In 1873
he opened a store in Ellis Grove. In 1874 he was appoint-
ed post-master.
Elisha and Edward Seymour came to Randolph county
in 1822 Edward lived in Randolph county until 1849
when he joined the adventurous band who were attracted to
the Pacific Slope He accompanied his brother Elisha, and
engaged in mining, with varied success, until the death of
his brother, who was drowned in Jlay, 18.51, while trying to
ferry a man over Salmon river when it was swollen and in a
dangerous stage. In the winter of 18.51-' .')2, Mr. Seymour
made the journey homeward by way of Panama, and returned
to his old home in Randolph county, where he settled up his
brother's estate, aud continued to reside in the county until
his death in 187G. He left two sons, George D. and Henry
E , both of whom live in the county. Elisha, his brother,
married Sarah McDonough, a daughter of Stacy Mc-
D.)nough, and sister of James Milligan's wife.
Christian Beare is an old settler, who came from Switzer-
land in 18:52. He first located upon a place two miles north
of Ellis Grove, and engaged in farming until 1842, when he
settled upon his pr&sent place, section 18, a quarter of a
mile southwest of the village.
Hiram Rnberts came to Randolph county in the year
18:59, when fifteen years of age, since which time he has
resided in it, except a period of three years spent on the
Pacific coast. His father's name was James Robert-;, a na-
tive of New Jersey, who was married to Margaret Murphy,
iti the city of New York. He first moved to Ohio, and set-
tled at Columbus, where Hiram, his son, was born. The
fami y moved next to Michigan, and subsequently to Taze-
well county, Illinois In 18:59 they moved to Randolph
county and settled in the neighborhood of Ellis Grove.
Daniel Preston Roberts, the grandson of William Roberts,
who came to Illinois from Kentucky about the beginning of
the present century, was born Nov. :)Oth, 1816, near Kas-
kaskia. He studied law, was admitted to the bar, and was
appointed register in the land ofiice at Kaskaskia until its
314
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
close. In 1S66 he bought a farm half a mile west of Ellis
Grove, where he still re.^ides.
Oue of the earliest Germans to locate in this precinct was
John George Schoeppel, a native of Bavaria, Germany. He
emigrated to America in the fall of the year 1839, landing
at New Orleans. On coming up the river the boat was
frozen in the ice opposite Kaskaskia. This incident
caused him to stop at that place, though it was his intention
to settle in Missouri. He was a tailor, and, after working a
few weeks at his trade, he settled about one mile north of
Ellis Grove, and engaged in farming. He died in 1858.
Some of his children are still residing in the vicinity.
There are few of the old settlers now in Florence precicct.
They have fought their battles with bfe and passed away.
The old landmarks have gone with them. The primitive
log church has been supplanted by those of brck or frame,
and the old squatty school-house of round poles, without
window or floor, has been succeeded hy elegant frame struc-
tures. On every hand the ok! traces of pioneer life are gone.
Riding along the road from Evansville to Ellis Gr.ive, if
the traveller were to pause when he comes to Nine Mile
Creek, he would look in vain for any remains of the old
mill erected by Jonathan Fettit in 1798, but he can let his
memory revert to the scenes at that time. The little band
of pioneers or their boys, engaged in games of ball or feats
of wrestling and throwing the thoulder-slone, while awaiting
their turn for their grist, enjoying themselves in their leisure
time in the rude manner of the pioneer life, would to day,
if sketched by the artist, make an interesting picture.
ELLIS GROVE.
The village of Ellis Grove is beautifully located in an
elevated region about two miles east of the Kaskaskia river^
on the wej-t half of section 17. The region around the vil-
lage has some natural advantages in the way of timber, soil
and water. It was at an early period a place of note. lu
1852 George Ellis purchased a part of the old Hunt farm,
put up a house and opened a store A post-office was also
established and Mr. Ellis appointed post-master. A Union
meeting-house was erected the same year, which still stands,
though now used as a dwelling. A school-house was put up
also. These buildings gave to the little place somewhat the
appearance of a village. Mr. Ellis had hi-i land surveyed
into town lots, and called the place Ellis Grove. The plat
was recorded Oct. 9, 1855. In 1855 a church building was
erected by the Baptists, which was burned in the spring of
1882. The society was in a flourishing state. Mr. Ellis
had his store destroyed by fire in 1857, and removed to Ur-
bana; and William Crawford moved in, opened a store, and
took charge of the post-office.
Pi-es('uf Business. — The town has now a population of
about two hundred, some of whom are of German ancestry ;
one dry goods store, owned by J Beard & Brother ; two
hotels, one by Mrs. John Schoeppel, and oue by Mrs. Fred.
Peters ; two blacksmith shops, one by William Kuntz, and
one by Frederick Dudenbostel ; one wagon shop ; one drug
store, by Henry Lilly, who is also the post-master, a justice
of the peace, and a notary public; two physicians — Dr. J.
B. Kay, and Dr. J. Howard ; also, one German jMethodist
church.
There are two school-houses, one quarter of a mile each
from the centre of the village ; and a saw-mill, owned by
Heob, Lutz & Neuling.
WATERLOO
MONROE COUNTY.
\:
LLLEFONTAINE was the ear-
liest settlement in the county.
The first American colony
came from Maryland and Vir-
ginia to Illinois in 1781, and
of its members three. James
Jloore, Darken Rutherford,
and James Garretson, settled
at or near the Bellefuntaine in
1782. This name had been
applied by the French to a
spring of water a mile south of the site of Waterloo, at
which they had doubtless often camped on their journeys
between Kaskaskia, Cahokia and St. Louis. By the side of
this spring Moore determined to build his future home,
Rutherford settled in the vicinity. Early in the present
century he removed to the neighborhood of the present town
bJiA
of Belleville, in St. Clair county, where he died. He had
been a soldier under Colonel Clark in his expedition to Ill-
inois in 1778. Garretson selected a location a mile northeast
of where the town of Waterloo now stands, on claim 516,
survey 720, a grant of land which he rectived from the gov-
ernment. He afterward removed to the American Bottom,
near Moredock Dake, where he ended his days. Moore and
his family clung to the original settlement at the Bellefon-
taine. The grant of four hundred acres of laud which he
obtained from the Government (claim 220, survey :]94) cov-
ering the spring, has remained in the possession of the Moore
family from the last century to the present time.
Captain James Moore was born in Maryland in the year
1750. He subsequently settled in Virginin, his old. st son,
John Moore, being the only one of his childrrn bora in
Maryland. He settled in Virginia on the banks of the
Kanawha river, lie took part in the e.xi.editiou to Illinuis
niSTOHV OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES ILLINOIS.
315
in 177S, uiiiler the comtnaiid of Caloiiel George Rogers
Clark, in wiiich il is generally supposed he served in the
commissary department, lie was adventurous aiicl daring
in disposition. He, with his companions, reached Kaskaskia
in the fall of 17S1, and there remained ilnriii;; the winter.
The next spring iiesettled at Beliefontaine. It was supposed
when these immigrants left the country cast of the AUeghe-
uies that little danger need be feared from the Indians. It
was not long, however, before the savages began to make
trouble, and James Moore was elected captain of the com-
pany which came to be raised for the protection of the colony.
IlliiM)is at that lime was a county of Virginia, and the com-
mission which Captain Moore received was from the Gover-
nor of Virginia, Patrick Henry. He was directed to estab-
lish a military post and ci)minand the Illinois militia. A
fort, or blockhouse, was accordingly built at Bellefontaine,
and afterwani, during the Indian war this was one of the
most frenuent and noted places of resort. Captain Moore's
ctf'jrls were of great value in establishing amicable relations
with the Indians, so that it wa.s not until IT'^G that serious
trouble began with the hostile tribes. With Gabriel Cerre,
a wealthy merchant of St. Louis, he entered into trade with
the Indians, and for some time maintiined his headquarters
on the site of Nashville, Teun. He died in or about the
year 1788, his family obtaining scanty results from his ven-
ture in the Indian trade. His wife, whom he had married
in JIaryland in 177"2, was Catharine Biggs. At her hus-
band's death she was left with a family of six children, the
oldest of whom was but fourteen years of age, and the
youngest an infant. She kept the family together, though
her situation was one of trial and embarrassment. By this
time the Indians had resumed their encroachments, though
their object seemed to be to steal rather than to kill, some
of them boasting that they spared the .settlers so that they
might raise horses and provisions for them. Her neighbors
planted for her a crop the first season after her husband's
death, some standing guard against the Indians while others
tilled the field. At one time the danger became so immi-
nent that the family was driven to the block house in the
American Bottom for protection.
The oldest son, John Moore, on attaining his majority in
1794, married Elizabeth Whiteside, the oldest daughter of
William White.-ide, who had reached Illinois in ll'Xi. He
settled north of Waterloo, on claim 122:5, survey 3i)7. He
died in the year l)S:!:i. He was a lieutenant in the Illinois
militia, in the ranging service during the war of 1812-14,
and the first treasurer of Monroe county. William and
Benjamin, the two next sous of James Moore died in early
life. The fourth son, James Biggs Moore, known asGeneral
Jloore, was born in Virginia in N'^U. He embarked in
various business enterprises, and for some years trade<l on
the Ohio and Mississippi rivers between New Orleans and
Pittsburg, making his voyages in a keel boat. He aban-
doned the boat business to settle three miles northeast of the
present town of Waterloo, on what was known as the " tan
yard farm." He here invested in a large tanning enterprise,
at that time, jierhaps, the largest west of the Alleghenies.
He organized a company of rangers in the war of 1812-14,
and was commissioned its captain. He was appointed sheriff
of Monroe county by Governor Ninian Edwards, and was
the first to (ill that office after the organization of the county,
lie was sheriti' several years, and afterward for two terms
represented the county iu the State Legislature. He was a
man of active business enterprise, and establisluHl a mill on
Prairie du Long creek, and a carding factory near his own
homestead. He died (ui the tan yard farm in 1.S40 Enoch
Moore, the next son of the pioneer, was born in the old
block house at the Bellefontaine in the year 178:!, and was
probably the first white child born within the limits of the
present county of Monroe. He secured a good education
and became an excellent surveyor Much of the gov-
ernment surveying in this part of Illinois was done uuder
his direction and supervision. He married Mary Whiteside.
During the war of 181-2-'14 he served as a private in the
company of rangers commanded by his brother. Captain
James B. Moore. He was a delegate to the conventi(jn that
framed the first constitution of the State of Illinois, and was
elected a representative in the State Legislature. He was
also at diff'erent times circuit clerk and judge of the probate
court. He was a local minister in the Methodist Episcopal
Church In company with one of his sons, McKendree
Moore, he engaged in the mercantile business at Waterloo.
He died in the year 1818. His home was the farm now
o vned by Josepti W. Drury north of Waterloo. Mary
Moore born at Bellefontaiue in 178 i, became the wife ot
Colonel David Robinson. J. Milton Moore, the youngest
son of the pioneer, Captain James Moore, was born in Belle-
fontaine in 178t). Several years of his boyhood were spent
with his uncle Zaccheus Biggs, in Virginia, where he re-
ceived a good common school education. He had a strong
liking for mathematics and qua'ified himself as a surveyor.
Soon after he was s'xteen years of age he was made surveyor
of .St. Clair county, and filled that position forseveral years.
He surveyed a considerable part of the public land in Mon-
roe county, running the lines of the sections and townships.
He was in the ranging service during the war of 1812-'14.
and served as a justice of the peace for many years. He died
in 1844.
The old claim 2006, survey 978, a mile or more southeast
of Waterloo, was granted by the government on account of
an improvement made by Auguste Big^er-taff in the year
1786. The testimony before the board of commissioners to
adjust land claims in the Kaska.<'kia district showed that
Biggerstaff cultivated corn and rai.scd a crop that year.
Peter Casterline testified that he assisted Biggerstafl' to lay
the foundation of his cabin, to deaden some timber and put
in a crop. Andrews' run, a tributary to Fountain creek,
which rises north of Waterloo, was so called from the An-
drews family, which settled at its head in early times, and
who were mas.sacred by the Indians. James Andrews was a
young Virginian who came to Illinois, and shortly afterward
married Capt. Joseph Ogle's daughter, and settled on An-
drews' run. Here he was attacked by the Indians, himself
and wife killed, and his child, a girl three years of age,
taken prisoner. Her name was Drusilla. She was recovered
through the agency of some French traders of St. Louis,
r.iG
niSTOEY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND RERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
niul was raised in tlie family i>f James Lemaii, at New
Design ; she miirried Henry Mace. Governor St. Clair con-
firmed a grant ol' four hnndred acres of land, covering the
original improvement made by Andrews, to his daughter
Drusilla, on which she and her husband afterward spent
their days. The HuH'and Moredock family, on coming to
Illinois first settled in the vicinity of Bellefontaiue, and in
1809 the claim was affirmed by the commissioners to John
Moredock. The massacre of Mrs. Hufl' and part of the
family bj' the Indians, in their journey up the Missis-
sippi, is elsewhere related. Huff himself was killed by the
Indians, on the road between Kaskaskia and Prairie du
Rocher. The family removed to the American Bottom, on
]\[oredock lake, and John Moredock became a noted citizen
of the county- On claim 229, survey 784, about three miles
north of Waterloo, the first improvement was made by
Samuel Hanley. This grant was confirmed by Governor
St. Clair to William Biggs, in whose possession it also was
at the time of the leport, made in 181-3, of the commis-
sioners to adjust land claims in the Kaskaskia district.
Biggs lived a long and eventful life in Illinois. He was
born in Maryland in the year 17.5.5, and at the age of
twenty-three enlisted in the expedition for the concjuest of
Illinois, commanded by Colonel George Rogers Clark. He
held a commission as lieutenant, and served during the
years 1778 and 1779. He returned to Virginia, was married,
and shortly afterward, in company with his two brothers,
came to Illinois and settled at Bellefontaiue. In the spring
of 1788, while on his way to Cahokia, in company with
John Vallis, he was attacked by the Indians and taken
prisoner. He was released on the payment of S260 ransom
money. He afterward wrote a narrative of his captivity.
He was appointed by Governor St. Clair sheriff of St. Clair
county in 1790, and filled the office for a number of years ;
he was also a justice of the peace, and judge of the court of
common pleas He was elected to serve in the legislature of
the Northwestern territory two terms. In 1808 he was
chosen to represent St. Clair county in the legislature of
Indiana territory, and by his efforts contributed to the divi-
sion of the territory and the establishment of the Illinois
territory the following year. From 1812 to 1816 he repre-
sented St. Clair county in the legislative council of General
Assembly of the territory of Illinois.
South of the Moore tract, below Waterloo, Michael Miller
settled at an early day. He was from Pennsylvania, and
came to Illinois about the year 1800 The fivrm north of
Waterloo, which was for many years the residence of Geo.
L. Ditch, was first improved by Benjamin Marney. While
returning up the river from New Orleans, where he had
taken a flat-boat loaded with produce, he was seized with
yellow fever, died and was buried on the bank of the Mis-
sissippi. This was in the early part of the year 1822.
William Agnew was an old resident of the precinct, and
occupied a farm in section 2 of township 2 range 10, now
owned by Conrad Kohlmar. James Taylor lived on the
Loehr place, three miles north of Waterloo, on the St. Louis
road. In the same neighborhood was the old Eberraan
place, where the Rev. William Eberman lived for many
years. At this place, early in the present century, Thomas
Marrs, afterward a residentof the American Bottom, settled.
David Robinson, who has been mentioned as having mar-
ried the only daughter Capt. James Moore, was^ lieutenant
in the company of his brother-iu-law, Capt. James B. Moore,
in the war of 1812-14, and was afterward appointed by
Governor Ninian Edwards a colonel of militia. In later
life he became a member of the Methodist Episcopal church.
He died in the year 1833.
CITY OF WATERLOO.
The tract of land on which the original town of Waterloo
was laid out was purchased by George Forquer, in 1818.
The projectors of the town were Forcjuer and Daniel P-
Cook. The latter was a prominent lawyer, a resident of
Kaskaskia and afterward a member of Congress. Forquer
was born in Pennsylvania in 1794, and came to Illinois with
his mother, Mrs. Ford, and his half brother, Thomas Ford,
(afterwards Gov. Ford), in 1804. He also was the original
j>roprietor of the town of Bridgewater, on the Mississippi,
above Harrisonville. He opened a store at Waterloo, but
his mercantile venture proved a failure. He then under-
took the study of law and engaged in politics, in both of
which pursuits he was successful. The Ford family lived in
Waterloo for many years, inhabiting a little log house which
stood at the west side of the present Main street, just south
of the old Morrison place. Mrs. Ford died here, and was
buried in the cemetery east of town. At Waterloo Thomas
Ford grew up to manhood and began his distinguished legal
and political career.
Much of the land on which the town is now built was,
previous to the laying out of the town, owned by David H.
Ditch who acquired it by entry from the government. He
was born in Pennsylvania, in the year 1781, and married
Hannah Forquer, sister of George Forquer. They came to
Illinois in 1804, Mrs. Ditch fording the Kaskaskia river on
horseback with one of her children tied behind her. After
living some time in the vicinity of Kaskaskia, and in the
American Bottom neai Harrisonville, JNIr. Ditch moveel to
the site of Waterloo. He built the log house, afterward
known as the Morrison house, which stood until the spring
of 1881, when it was torn down. This in early days was
used as a hotel, and when Waterloo first became the county
seat, the courts were held in this building.
For many years the growth of Waterloo was slow, and it
remained a place of small size and importance. The first per-
manentstore was established by Emery Peter Rogers, for many
years a leading citizens of Waterloo. A young man named
Ruddisill also sold goods for a time in the early history of
the place. Rogers was born in Massachusetts, and came
to Illinois about the year 1816. He first taught school and
then opened a small store, his stock of goods consisting of a
barrel of whiskey, some tobacco, powder and lead, and a few
other articles indispensable to the pioneers. This store was
kept in a log building on Main street, on lot eight of
Rogers' subdivision, opposite the house to which he after-
ward removed, which is still standing. For some time this
was the only store in the county. A store had been estab-
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
317
lished at Harrisonville in early times, but for some years
was discontinued. About the year 1826, Mr. Rogers en-
larged his store, and put in a more general and complete
stock of goods He put up a large rock building which
stood where the Rogers homestead now is. Part of the
building was used as a hotel. It burned down in 1843, and
in its place the present brick building was erected. He
kept the hotel until 1817, and continued the store until his
death in the year 1S50. He was a raan of large frame,
weighed about two hundred and forty pounds, was intelli-
gent and well educated, and enterprising as a business man.
In addition to his store, he had a carding mill and saw mill
in his part of the town, and erected a number of buildings.
He was comuionlv known as Peter Rogers, and his part of
the town received the soubri(juet of IVterstown, by which it
is still known. He embarked in several outside enterprises,
and had he not met with several serious disasters, such as
the fire which burned his store, the loss of a barge load of
tobacco in the ice, and of an investment of thirty thousand
dollars in a steamboat, he would have accumulated great
wealth. As it was he died in good circumstances aud left
a comfortable estate behind him. His first wife was Mary
Miller, daughter of Michael Miller, who came from Penn-
sylvania, and settled south of Waterloo about the year
1800. His second wife was Eunice Rogers, the widow of
his brother, Lemuel Rogers. His third wife, Caroline Rob-
inson, daughter of David Robinson, is still living,
Another store was started about the year 1838, by Mc-
Kendree Moore, in partnership with his father, Enoch
Moore, and was carried on until the death of the son in
1840. It was kept in a brick building, about fifteen by
twenty-two feet in dimensions, which stood on the site of
Peter Bickelhaupts hotel, on Main street, opposite the court
house. Shortly after the Moors engaged in the mercantile
business, another store was started by James B. Meedles
(father of Thomas B. Needles, formerly State Auditor) and
John Gall. The date of its establishment was about the
year 1830, and it was carried on for nearly ten years. Soon
after 1840, the town began to increase iu population, and in
1841 and lH4l', two or three additional stores were started.
Isaac Clark and Zaccheus B. Moore, opened a store on the
corner of Main and Third streets, where the marble shop
now is. Ferdinand Rose had a store on Main street, just
south of Peterstown. Rose was afterward interested in busi-
ness with John B. Frank. In 184"), there were four stores;
that of Rogers ; one carried on by George Leip on the west
side of Main street, corner of Mill street ; one belonging to
Conrad Stroh on the west side of Main street, father north,
and one opened that year by John Frank and Major X. F_
Trail. Lafayette Warnoch carried on the the mercantile
business from lcS48 to l'<">4. Among other merchants who
carried on business in Waterloo previous to 1800, were John
A. Reed, Napoleon Bond, George Lutz, John G. Shaeffcr,
Charles Ileer, Henry Boedeker, M. T. and Harrison Horine,
George Leip, William Moore, William Devine, Berger,
David Walsh, John Borchert and Frederick Timraerniann.
In 183(5 the town contained not more than twenty build-
ings. Beginning at the north end of the town, the brick
building still standing, the one farthest north on Main
street, was occupied that j'car by David Nolan. He was
clerk of the circuit court, a member of the bar, and died at
Vandalia in 183X, while at the capital as member of the
legislature. The next was a small frame house with two
rooms, occupied by Catherine and Delilah Hilton, seam-
stresses. The next was the residence and store of Emery
Peter Rogers, and on the opposite side of the street lived
Benjamin Dean. Next below on the east ride of the street
was a log building, owned by Peter Rogers, father of Emery
P. Rogers, into which Jesse Slate, the father of E. P. Slate,
moved on his arrival in the town from Massachusetts in
June, 183(5. Opposite was the log building in which Emery
P Rogers kept his first store, aud which in 1«3() was used
as a workshop. Luke Patterson had erected this building
and sold it to Rogers. On the east side of the street,
further down, a man named Owens lived. The next bouse
was the building known as the old Morrison place, a large
log structure two stories in height, built by David H. Ditch,
iu which in early days he kept a hotel. Next on the west
side of the street was the residence of Dr. John Rogers. He
was a brother of Emery P. Rogers. He had acquired a
good medical education and had practiced his profession in
Massachusetts some years before coming to Illinois. He
came to Waterloo in 182(5, and followed his profession till
his death iu 18.58. He was the leading physician of the
county during that period, and his ])ractice, which extended
over this county with St. Clair and Randolph, kept him
busy day and night. On the east side of the street, oppo-
site Dr. Rogers, was a story and a half log house, with two
rooms below, used as a school-house. James Rogers,
brother of Emery P., and Dr. John Rogers taught school in
this building for several years. The building on Main
street, the second block north of the court house, now occu-
pied by Borntraeger's store, was used as a dwelling iu
1836 by Daniel Converse, who for many years filkd the
office of county clerk. The next house was on the north-
east corner of M lin and Mill streets, where Stroh's saloon
now is, and in it lived John Coleman, He was the propri-
etor of a mill which stood just east of his residence on Mill
street and north of the court house. This was first built as
a wind mill in 1830, or shortly afterward. Its operation as
a wind mill was not very successful, the mill only running
when the wind blew with a certain force. About 1837 it
was changed to an ox mill. The court house in 1836 was a
small two-story brick building, with the court room below
and the county offices above, and stood a short distance
southwest of the present structure. The Methodist church,
the only one in town, stood near the site of the i)resent
church building. The southwest corner of Main and Third
streets was taken up by a log building iu which was kept a
grocery. On the west side of Maiu street, below Fourth
street, there was a log house in which Isaac Clark lived in
].S3(5, but which shortly afterward was purchased by John
Gall. On the west side of Main street, north of Third
street, was a frame house, into which William H. Bennett
moved in 1836, and on the northwest corner of Maiu and
Third streets was a blacksmith shop.
318
HISTORY OF RANDOLrn, MOXROE AND PERRY COUXTIES, ILLINOIS.
The merchants of Waterli)o in the year 185.') were Emery
P. Rogers, John S. Borchert, M. T. Horine, Charles H.
Heer, John G. SchaeflFer, Conrad Stroh, Hoener & Moore,
David Walsh, Martin Dunn and Vincent Sum. The latter
two had small stores. The flouring mill on the site of
the present Edwards and Chouteau mill was carried on in
1855 by Francis A. Gauen and Fridolin Meyer. John
Coleman's mill, on Mill strtet opposite the court house,
was then running. It was at that time operated by steam,
though wind and then ox power had previously been,
tried. This mill was destroyed by fire in 1857. In " Peter.s-
town" Emery P. Rogers had a saw mill, and a brewery
was carried on by John Koechel.
In 1858 Jacob Miller and Valentine Briegel built a large
brick mill east of the town. Its site is now included in the
corporation limits. It was bought by Chouteau, Edwards
& Co., and torn down in 1874. The first brewery in
Waterloo was built in 1847 by John Koechel, who began
operations in a small frame building. The original
building was torn down about the year 1852, and the
present brick building erected in its place. Koechel ran it
till 18G5, and then leased it to other parties. It was sold
in January, 1882, to Michael Schorr and Henry Wilmes-
meier, and is n iw run by Schorr. About 1858 John Her-
rold started a brewery in a building, partly brick and
))artly frame, which stood in the southeast part of the town.
It bufned down in 1869. The firm of Wellier & Burch
ran it for a time. A small distillery was operated by
Edward Kemuff for five or si.x; years. It stood iu the south
part of town.
Among the phj-sieians who practiced in Waterloo in
former years were Drs. Sonierville, Harper, De Puyt
Doelicht, Smith, Bull, Copp, Bollert, Whiteside, Koernel
and Deming.
The German population of Waterloo began to increase
rapidly after 1840. The town has a beautiful situation on
elevated ground, from which an excellent view of the sur-
rounding country is obtained. The line of the bluffs is dis-
tinctly visible, and beyond the Missouri hills. It is twenty-
three miles from St. Louis by the St. Louis and Cairo rail-
road. The population is estimated at twenty-five hundred.
There are three newspapers, two English and one German.
The Methodists, Baptists, Lutherans, and Catholics have
churches. In addition to public school, both the Lutherans
and Catholics maintain large parochial schools, and there is
a convent under the care of the Catholic sisters. A large
and handsome brick public school building was erected in
1871.
TOWN GOVERNMENT.
The town of Waterloo was incorporated by act of Legis-
lature, approved in February, 1849. The charter was
amended in 1855, and again in 1859. Since the latter date
no amendment has been made. The town government is in
the Vands of a board of trustees, five in number, elected in
December of each year.
The board in each case being elected iu December of the
year previous to that given :
First board, 1859 — M. T. Horine, (president), George
DePuyt, Charles Borntraeger, Adam Kunipf, and Ambrose
Hoener.
1860 — Harrison Horine, (president), Francis A. Gauen,
Charles Borntraeger, Ambrose Hoener, and Fred Miiller.
1861 — Harrison Horine, (president), Francis A. Gauen,
John Koechel, Charles Borutraeger, and Ambrjse Hoener.
1862— Christian H. Kettler, (president), John Koechel,
Charles Bornkraeger, Hubert Kiinster, and Henry C. Tal-
bott.
186-3 — John Koechel, (president), Charles Borntraeger,
George Gauen, Christian Jobusch, and Henry C. Talbott.
1864 — Hubert Kiinster, (president), John Koechel, Henry
C. Talbott, and Christian Jobusch.
1865 — Henry C. Talbott, (president), Adam Kumpf, Louis
Eilbracht, H. F. Borutraeger, aud James A. Kennedy.
1861) — Charles Frick, I president), Hubert Kiinster, Dr.
A. Wetmore, John Moeller, and Adam Reis.
1867 — Charles Frick, (president), Hubert Kiinster, Dr.
A. Wetmore, Adam Reis, and Valentine Sturtzura.
1868 — Charles Frick, (president). Dr. A. Wetmore, Ser-
vais Sondag, Jacob Muller, aud Valentine Sturtzum.
186y — Conrad Herchenroeder, (president), Frederick De
Puyt, George L. Riess, Adam Reis, and Henry Colmar.
1870 — Harrison Horine, (president), George De Puyt,
Frederick De Puyt, John S. Borchert, and Stephen Heim.
1871 — Christian Jobusch, (president), Stephen Keim,
Anton Gatzert, George De Puyt, and Henry C. Talbott.
1872 — Christian Jobusch, (president,) Stephen Keim,
Anton Gatzert, George De Puyt, aud H'-nry C. Talbott.
187;)— Christian Jobusch, (president), Stephen Keim,
Anton Gatzert, George De Puyt, and Henry C. Talbott.
1874 — Hubert Kiinster, (president), George De Puyt,
Anton Gatzert, George Schmitt, and Henry C. Talbott.
1875— Hubert Kiiuster ( president i, Henry C. Talbott,
Anton Gatzert, Adam Reis, aud Henry Colmar.
1876 — Hubert Kiinster, (president), Henry C. Talbott,
Anton Gatzert. George Schmitt, and Edward Borntraeger.
1877 — George Schmitt, (president), Edward Borntraeger,
Anton Gatzert, George C. Gauen, and Henry C. Talbott.
1878 —Edward Borntraeger, (president), Anton Gatzert,
George C. Gauen, Joseph W. Rickert, and Ferdinand Cavi.
1879 — George C. Gauen, (president) Anton Gatzert, Jo-
seph W. Rickert, Ferdinand Cavi, and Peter Bickelhaupt.
1880 — Ferdinand Cavi, (president), John Moeller, Joseph
W. Rickert, Peter Bickelhaupt, aud George Morrison.
1881 — Frederick H. Borutraeger, (president), Ferdinand
Cavi, Joseph Gauen, and Peter Bickelhaupt.
1882. — Ferdinind Cavi, (president), Peter Bickelhaupt,
Charles Metzger, Philip Arras, and Henry Oldendorph.
188.')— Ferdinand Cavi, (president), Peter Bickelhauph,
Charles Metzger, Philip Arras, and Philip Wagner.
SECRET A.-iD BENEVOLENT SOCIETIES.
Waterloo Lodge, No. 27, I. 0. 0. f.— The original char-
ter of this lodge was granted July 14, 1847, with five charter
members. After a few years the lodge ceased to work, aud
tbe charter was surrendered. It was restored May loth,
HISTORY OF HAXDOLPII, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
319
1880, and tlie lodge was re instituted June 1st of the same
year. At tliis writii)<r it is in sucoesrful operation.
Watfr/oo Enrii>iipmt)it, No. lOti, was instituted March 1st,
1881, with eleven charter members. During the year
(1881), a handsome brick building was erected on Mill
street, the upper part of which is owned by the Odd Fellows
and is used by them for lodge purposes.
T'rbdii Lii'l(/t; Xii. liKiO, Kiiii/hts of Honor, was instituted
on the twenty-iiith of August, 1^8(1, with seventeen ciiarter
members.
Monroe Lodge, No. o6o. Order oj Horuijuri, was instituted
Jau. 28th, 187."), with sixteen charter members.
M.VNUFACTURES.
The flouring mill of the Chouteau A' Edwards Co is the
main manufacturing establishment of Waterloo. A steam,
mill was tirst built on the site of the present building in the
year 1N48, by Major Xerxes F. Trail. He ran it a couple
of years, and it then passed into possession of Francis A.
Gauen aud Fridolin Meyer. Gauen afterward operated it
aloiie,aud in 18()5 it was purchased by the firm of Chouteau
& Edwards. A company, with a capital slock of S.')tl,00(),
•was incorporated in July, 1877, under the name of the
Chouteau & Edwards Co., the present owners. Improve-
ments were made, and the present building erected in 1877.
The manufacture of flour was carried on by the old methods
till 1881, when the Stevens' rolls were introduced, and the
machinery of the mill entirely reconstructed. The mill has
a capacity of one thousand barrels per day, which, in l.ss;',,
it is proposed to increase by two hundred barrels. There
are fifteen sets of double rolls, three of single roils, and
twelve run of buhrs. The product in 1882 was about one
hundred and twenty thousand barrels. The main building
is six stories in height, and in area sixty by eighty-four feet.
The elevator buildings have a storage capacity of eighty-
five tliousand bushels, and there are also extensive cooper
shops in connection with the mill. The motive power is fur-
nished by a Harriss-Corliss engine of twelve hundred horse-
power. Forty-three men are employed in the mill, and
thirty-eight in the cooper shop. Part of the product is
shipped direct to the East, and the balance disposed of in
St. Louis, through the commission house of Chouteau &
Edwards. The officers of the company are: — President,
James C. Edward.s ; Vice-President, J. Gilman Chouteau ;
Secretary and Treasurer, S F. Chenot.
The manufacture of plows and wagons is carried on by
the firm of Oldendorph Bros , composed of George and Ja-
cob Oldendorph. The business was established in 1872
The manufacture of iron-beam plows is made a specialty.
Beside this firm, the manufacture of wagons is carried on to
some extent by Philip Arres, Adam Kumpf and Philip
Wagner ; and of carriages and buggies by Louis Teichgraber
and Philip Mitchell. Henry Kemper and Mr. Mittendorf
carry on the wheelwright business. Louis "Wahl has a ma-
chine shop for the repair and manufacture of agricultural
and other machinery.
The Waterloo Marble Works were established in 1875 by
the firm of M. C. Rodeuberger & Co., of which M. C. Ro-
denberger and William Kestner are members. Marble and
granite monuments, headstones and tablets are made and
sold. The trade of the firm extends to St. Louis and to
adjoining counties in Illinois. Ten hands are employed in
the shop. The firm also operate a quarry, seven miles west
from Waterloo, in Blutt' precinct, from which limestone —
said to be the finest in the Stale — is quarried. In the sum-
mer eight men are here employed. The Monroe County
Marble Works, on Mill street, were established by Henry
Fisiher in 187!), and have turned out a large amount of
monumental work.
J F. Gotshall Knitting Machine Manufactory, started iu
1879, runs three machines; manufactures between three and
four hundred dozen pairs of socks and stockings during the
season ; supplies local demand only.
BUSINESS HOUSES.
The Commercial Bank, the only one in the county, was
established January 1st, 1883, and is conducted under
the firm name of H. Kunster & Co., operated under articles
of co-partnership, Wm. H. Horine, jr. as Cashier, with a
capital slock of S1-"),000.00, with the followiug stockholders:
Hubert Kunster, Christian Jobusch, Jos. W. Rickert,
William Bode, and William Erd. They have a good fire
aud burglar proof safe with time lock.
General Stores. — Bode and Jobusch, Edward Bomtraeger,
Louis Eilbracht, George C. Gauen, Frank Heer, Fred
Joedecke, Henry Jung, Herman Koechel, George Pinkel,
Jacob Pluth, Fred Sauerhage.
Physicians. — J. P. Denning, Hugo Rothstein, A. Wet-
more, F. Bock, Nicholas Soteriades, A. Wichmann.
Post Office.— U, Kunster, P. M.
Hotels. — City Hotel, Peter Bickelhaupt ; Southern, Peter
Feller.
Livery Stables. — Drury and Hilton, Daniel Stein.
DriKjf/i.'its — H. Kunster, L. and W. E Eichelbracht.
Jewelers. — August Forkel, Charles F. Gauen.
Tailors and (jent.<i' Furnkhing Goods. — Becker and
Ruppert, Louis Pieper.
Soda Factory. — Henry Boeke.
Lumber Yard. — George C. Gauen, R. aud C. Grosse.
Hardware. — R. and C. Grosse, Henry Walhaus.
Brick Yards. — Ben. Hoffman, Jacob Burkhardt.
Stores and Tinware. — Frederick Klemm, John Gaerteer,
jr-
Aijricultural Implements — Philip Zimmer, Louis Wall.
Dentist — C. M. Fike.
Veterinary Surgeon. — Frederick Wagner.
Photographer. — H. Rundle.
Furniture and Undertakers. — August Siegel, Quernheim
and Sons.
S((ddleri. — Henry Jobusch, Mat. Schmitz, Conrad Hcrch-
enroeder.
Cigar Manufacturer. — Fred Linne.
Shoe Stores, also Makers. — John Braun, John Moller.
Shoeviakers — Theodore Sontag, J. W. Meyer, Jacob
Rodenhauser, George Schmitt.
.Ba^me*.— Philip Herbert, Rudolph Molteuschart.
320
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Brewery. — Michael Schorr.
Blaeksniiths. — Adam Kumpf, Louis Mueller, Oldendorph
and Bros., Henry Oldendorph, Louis Teichgraeber, Pliilip
Wagoner, Philip Arras.
Wagon Makers. — Philip Mitchell, Herman Mittendorf,
Henry Kemper.
Millinery. — Miss Elizabeth Shuell, Mrs. Mary Welch.
Caipenters and Builders — -Chas. Sieber, Ferdinand Cavi,
Henry VVinterraan.
Butcherg. — Theodore Ruch, George Euch, Anthony Ruch,
Henry Fischer.
J'ainters. — H. W. Miiller, Louis Grimmel, Louis Strubig.
Plaster. -Wm. Vanhalter
Barbers. — Frank Leidenheimer, Philip Bremser.
Stores and Saloons. — George Eschenfelder, Martin Dunn.
Saloons. — Peter Bickelhaupt, Henry Bickelhaupt, Fred
Borntraeger, Peter Feller, Louis Arns, Louis Bersche, Ben.
Goethe, Joseph F. Gauen, Conrad Herman, Jolin Lutz,
Vincent Rapp, Peter Ray, U. H. Stroh, John Stolgenberg,
Adam Weddel, Charles Wil.son, Daniel Stf-iu.
The attorneys and newspapers will be found in the chap-
ters on the Bench and Bar aud the Press.
BIOGRAPHIES
HON. JOHN JANSON.
One of the substantial and prominent faimers of Monroe
county is the subject of this sketch. His father Valentine
Janson. is a native of Hesse Darmstadt. He came to
America in 18d8, and settled near Columbia, in Monroe
county, where he engaged in farming, which vocation he
followed until a few years ago when he retired, and at pres-
ent he is a resident of the village of Columbia. While yet
a resident of his native country he married Elizabeth Sei-
bert. By that union there were seven children, six of whom
are yet living. John, the subject of this sketch is the eldest.
He was born near Columbia, in Monroe county, Illinois,
March 17th, 1839. He grew up on his father's farm and
received a limited education in the subscription schools of
bis neighborhood. The schools of his youth were few, and
much inferior to the present ones. He being the eldest son
and of a naturally industrious disposition, his time was much
occupied in assisting his father to make a home and acquire
a competency. His education is therefore more the result
of habits of close observation, united with a naturally strong
mind than of instruction in schools, or book knowledge.
He remained at home the chief assistant of his father until
he reached his twenty-third year, when he commenced farm-
ing for himself on land rented and belonging to his father.
This arrangement continued for five years, when he pur-
chased the farm, which then contained one hundred acres,
and to which he has added sixty more, and there he has
made his home to the present. On the 7th of October^
1862, he was united in marriage to Miss Eliza, daughter of
John and Hannah Weilbecher. Mrs. Janson was born in
St. Clair county, Illinois. There have been five sons and
four daughters born to Mr and Mrs. Janson. The names
in the order of their birth are John, Mary, Peter, Elizabeth,
Catherine, Philip, Christian, Emma and Herman Janson.
Politically Mr. Janson is a staunch Democrat, but is iu no
■wise a strict party man. He votes the ticket of his party
in all national and State election, but in matters pertaing to
the county or local officers he votes for the best men and
measures regardless of party affiliations. He is a friend of
education and takes an active interest in the public schools
of his neighborhood, and was school director for fourteen
years. In 1882, at the earnest solicitation of his friends he
consented to allow his name to go before the citizens of the
county, as a candidate for the office of County Commissioner,
and at the ensuing election in November following was
elected by a handsome majority, and at present is serving
the people in that honorable capacity.
CHRISTIAN FREDERICK HARTMANN.
The subject of the following sketch was born in the Pro-
vince of Hanover, September 3, 183.5. He is the son of
Louis and Louisa (Rhinehart) Hartmann. His parents
came to America in 18.53 and settled in St. Clair county,
Illinois, and there died in 1854. His mother also died in
the same county. He was a farmer in Illinois, but in Ger-
many was a marble cutter. Christian F. at the age of
fourteen years was apprenticed to the shoemaking trade.
He worked at it for a short time after coming to this
country. In 1858 he began for himself on his portion of the
farm, and remained there until in 1865, when be ^came to
Monroe county and bought 175 acres in chain 26666, in T
2, R 9, and there he has made his home to the present. He
also owns a farm in the Bottom. On the 15th of June,
1858, he married Miss Catherine, daughter of Matthew and
Catherine Ritzel. Her parents were natives of Germany,
and came to America when Mrs. Hartmann was two years
of age. Eight children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.
Hartmann. Two died in infancy. The names of those
living are Christina C, Kate, George, Caroline, Christian
and Emil Hartmann. Mr. and Mrs. H. are members of
the Evangelical Lutheran church. Politically he is a
Republican. He is a strong advocate of good schools, and
very much in favor of education.
320A
eMMGSUCAL ST. PAUl's CHU/iCH, WATEKLOO, ILUNOIS.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
321
The subject of the following sketch is of German nativity.
He was born in the vicinity of Ulm, September 10, 18:U.
His father, Ernst Brey, was a native of the same place.
He came of a family possessed of ample means, and being of
scholastic turn of mind was educated in the University of
Tuebingen, became a teacher, studied theology, and subse-
quently adopted the profession of teacher of languages,
which he followed until his advanced age compelled his
retirement. In 1849 he emigrated to America and settled
in New York. One year later he came west, to St. Louis,
and there made his home, and there he continues to reside.
He married Maria Regina Kru-ner, a native of Germany.
She died in St. Louis in the year 1858. Of that union
there were seven children who arrived at the age of matu-
rity, four of whom are yet living. Paul C. Brey is the sec
ond child and eldest son. He received a good education in
the schools of his native country. He came with his father
to America in 1849, and soon after attended one session of
the public schools at Williamsburg, N. Y. At the expira-
tion of the school term some friends procured for him a
situation in a general retail dry goods store. He remained
there in a clerical position until 18.52, when, at the urgent
request of his father, who had come west to St. Louis two
years before, he joined him, and soon after his arrival secured
a situation in a wholesale book and stationery house in St.
Louis. He learned the business, and continued in it until
1857, when he came to Monroe county and settled in Burks-
ville, and there opened a general store. He continued mer-
chandising until 1873, when he removed to Waterloo, where
41
he has continued to reside up to the present. Soon after
Mr. Brey came to Burksville he was appointed postmaster, a
position he held for seventeen years. He soon became prom-
inent in the precinct where he settled, and was called on to
fill various positions of trust. In 1863 he was elected jus-
tice of the peace, and held the scales of justice for six years.
He also held other minor offices, such as township treasurer,
school director, etc. In 1873 his standing and character as
a citizen of Monroe county received honorable recognition
at the hands of the voters of the county, by being elected
county clerk. In 1877 he was reelected, and, under the act
of the legislature regulating the time of holding elections,
held over until 1882, when he was elected for the third time,
without opposition. The freciuent elections without the aid
or connivance of party machinery, but by the free, untram-
nieled votes of the people, show the standing and popularity
of Mr. Brey. As a clerk he brings to the office a thorough
business training, industrious habits, aud a very. affable and
accommodating disposition, all of which combined makes
him very popular as a public officer. On the 13th of Au-
gust, 1860, he was united in marriage with Miss Sophia A.,
daughter of Alex. H. and Mary Frances (Carlisle) Durfee,
old settlers of Monroe county. By that union there are nine
children. Mr. Brey has always been a consistent Democrat
of the Douglas school. In 1861 he was solicited by some of
his young friends to raise a company for the Forty-ninth
regiment Illinois volunteer infantry, (Col. Morrison's regi-
ment), but being a newly married man he declined, but
served the United States afterward by proxy.
322
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
U/l^
The subject of the following sketch was born at Vicks-
burg, Miss., July 9, 1841. He is the second in a family of
six children. His parents were French and German. His
father, Andrew Kickert, was a native of Alsace, France.
He came to America in 1832, landing in New York; from
there came west, then went south, and married in Vicks-
burg, and there remained until 1845, when he came north to
Illinois, and settle'! in Monroe county, and here died a few
years ago. Joseph W. received his primary education in
the schools of his neighborhood. At the age of sixteen he
entered the St. Louis University, and remained there until
1861, a period of nearly five years. His further atteudance
at college was prevented by the death of his mother. He
remained at home until in October, 1861, when he came to
Waterloo as a teacher in the public schools. He taught
nine months, and by the exercise of great prudence and
economy he saved the greater part of his salary, which, by a
little assistance from his father, enabled him to return to
college, where he graduated, received his diploma and the
degrees of A. B. and A. M. After his graduation he re-
turned home, then went to Central City, in Marion county,
and there taught school, and at the same time read law
under the direction of Judge H. K. S. O'Melveney. In May,
1865, Mr. Eickert returned to Monroe county, and contin-
ued his studies in the office of James A. Kennedy, of Water-
loo. In the fall of the same year he went south on a tour
combining business with pleasure, and visiting different cities
on the Mississippi river. In the following May, 1866, he
returned home and reengaged in teaching in different places
until 1868, when he weut to Chester, Randolph coun-
ty, and resumed the study of law in the office of Johnson
Hartzell. In March, 1869, he was admitted to the bar.
He came direct to Waterloo and opened a law office, and
formed a law partnership with I. P. Johnson, who was then
state's attorney for the district. In the same fall he was
elected superintendent of public schools of Monroe county.
At the conclusion of his term iu 1873 he resolved to devote
his energies and entire time to the practice of the law, which
had then already become reasonably lucrative and which
has since grown into a large practice.
Politically, Mr. Eickert has uniformly voted the Demo-
cratic ticket. He represented the counties of Monroe, Ean-
dolph, and Perry in the session of the legislature in 1875,
and while a member of that body succeeded in placing upon
the statute books important laws in relation to road matters
in counties not under township organization. In 1876 he
was elected state's attorney for the county, and reelected in
1880, and at present is serving the people in the capacity of
public prosecutor. On the 22d of May, 1873, Mr. Eickert
was united in married to Miss Minnie Ziebold, a native of
Chillicothe, Ohio, but a resident of Monroe City at the time
of her marriage. By that union there are two children
living, whose names are Josie L. and Minnie E. Eickert.
George F., the only son, died in infancy.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
323
The Payne famil)' is of English ancestry. Tiioiuas J.,
the grandfather of the subject of this sketch, was a native
of England, and came to America in 1773, and settled in
Lexington, Ky., which was then a small frontier village.
There his son, whose name was also Thomas J., was born,
the date of which was June 10, 1800. The latter grew to
manhood and remained in Kentucky until 1834, when he
moved to St. Louis and engaged in land speculations, and
continued there until 1847 ; then removed to St. Charles
county, in same state, and lived there until 1858, when he
returned to St. Louis, and purchased the residence on the
noithwest corner qf Fifteenth and Chestnut streets, and
there lived until his death, which occurcd September 21,
1866. Mr. Payne in his life was a shrewd business man,
and at an early date foresaw the great rise and future values
of real estate in St. Louis and the west. He was very suc-
cessful in his ventures, and amas-sed a handsome fortune be-
fore his death. He was thrice married ; his first wife w;us a
Craig; she died leaving two children, both of whom are
since dead ; his second wife, and mother of Thomas J. Payne,
was Mrs. Mary Jones, n6e Hill ; she wa.s of French descent;
she died in St. Charles county in 1853. ]}y that union there
were three sons, viz., the subject of this sketch, Bryant M.,
who died in his twelfth year, and Edward Howard Payne,
who at present is a resident of Fulton, Calloway county.
Mo. The father, subsequent to the death of his second wife,
married again, but there was no issue by that marriage.
Thomas J. Payne, the subject of this sketch, was boru in
St. Louis county, at a place now the northea.st corner of
Shaw's Garden, St. Louis, October 20, 1841. He was a
CX.'^^^*'''-^
mere lad when the family moved to St. Charles county,
and there Thomas received private instruction and was pre-
pared for admission to the College of Christian Brothers in
St. Louis ; he remained in that educational institution two
terms, then entered the St. Louis University, and remained
there about the same length of time, and then went to Wil-
liam Jewell's College in Clay county, Mo., and remained
there six mouths, after which he returned home and worked
on his father's farm in St. Louis county, near Webster Sta-
tion, and remained there until the war of the Rebellion
broke out. Being a southerner by birth and education, he
espoused the cause of the south and promptly entered the
service of the Southern Confederacy ; he became a member
of the Third Arkansas cavalry, and remained in the service
from July, 18()1, until the war. He was twice slightly
wounded, and once taken prisoner, l)Ut remained a captive
but a short time when he escaped. After the war closed he
returned to the farm in St. Charle.s county, then to St. Louis,
and in February, 1866, came to Monroe county, III., and
took charge of a farm in the American Bottom, one mile
east of Harrisonville ; he remained there until 1880, when
he came to Waterloo, and since then has made this place his
residence.
On the 21st of November, 1870, he was married to Mrs.
Margaret James, nee Raynor. Mrs. Payne was born in
Monroe county. They have had six children, three of whom
are living; two died in infancy and one in early childhood.
Their names in the order of the birth of those living are,
Fannie H, Mary Alice, and Thomas Jefferson Payne. Po-
litically, Mr. Payne is a staunch and reliable Democrat.
324
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
TT^^^i
'?f/
The present circuit clerk of Monroe county is to the manor
born. The place of his birth is at a point six miles south-
west of Waterloo, and the date July 25th, 1847. His father
Frederick Wiesenborn, was a native of Germany. He emi-
grated to America when quite young and settled in Monroe
county, and here followed the occupation of a farmer until
his death. He married Miss Caroline Erd, who was also of
German birth. By that union there were five children, two
of whom are yet living, viz : Caroline who is the wife of
Peter Miller, a resident of this county, and John the subject
of this sketch The latter received his primary education
in the public schools of the county, and his literary educa-
tion in the St. Louis University, where he spent two years.
And subsequently took a cotirse in Jones' Commercial Col-
lege, St. Louis. He then returned to Monroe county, and
went to work in a flouring mill, in which he continued two
years, then went back to the farm where he remained until
1875, when he received the appointment of Deputy Circuit
Clerk under John Seyler. Mr. Seyler died in Sept. 1879,
and in the following November, Mr. Wiesenborn was elected
to fill out the unexpired term. In 1880, he announced him-
self as a candidate for the full term, andin the ensuing elec-
tion was elected by a handsome. majority, and at present he
is serving the people in that official capacity. Mr. Wiesen-
born as clerk gives satisfaction. He is a careful and com-
petent officer, kind and accommodating to all who come in
contact with him as an officer of the county. The records of
the office are kept up and are neat and clean. System and
order prevail in all departments over which he exercises con-
trol. By his close attention to his office and earnest dispo-
sition to faithfully discharge the duties thereof, he has
earned the esteem and good will not only of those who
honored him with their suffrages, but all others. On the
26th of January, 1880, he was united in marriage to Miss
Mary E. daughter of Valentine Schuetz. Her parents were
natives of Germany, they came to America at an early date
and settled in Monroe county. There have been two chil-
dren born to Mr. and Mrs. Wiesenborn, whose names are
Annie and Frederick Wiesenborn.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
325
Is a native of Orange county, born June loth, 1850. His
parents James and Mary (Bowanj Canniff were natives of
Cork, Ireland. They emigrated to America in 1848 and
settled in New York, where they remained until 185.5 then
came west to St. Louis and the following year removed to
Monroe county, Illinois, and settled on a farm in the Ameri-
can Bottom and there Mr. Canniff remained until his death
which occured in 1867. He was a farmer and stock dealer
by occupation. His wife and mother of the subject of this
sketch survived him and died in 1879. There were seven
children born to Mr. and Mrs. Canniff two of whom are yet
living — George W. and James J. The latter received his
primary education in the public schools of Monroe county.
At the age of fourteen years he entered the college of the
Christian Brothers, in St. Louis and there remained for a
period of five years. His health failing he was compelled to
abandon college, before graduating. He returned to this
county and engaged in teaching, in which profession he con-
tinued for seven years. He then determined to adopt the
profession of law as the future business of his life. With
this idea in view he commenced the study, read the standard
text booksand diligently continued his studies for two years,
when at the June term, 1880 of the Appellate court, held
at Springfield, Illinois, he was upon examination admitted
to the bar. He commenced the practice in Waterloo, in
connection with William Winkelman a prominent lawyer
of Belleville Illinois Mr. Canniff is yet upon the thres-
hold of his professional experience. He brings to the pro-
fession a mind well trained by years of study in schools and
in teaching, studious habits, industry and a determination to
succeed and to the possessor of these traits of character,
success in the future is almost, if not positively assured. Po-
litically, Mr. Cannitl'is a Democrat, thoroughly imbued with
Democratic ideas and principles and an active supporter of
that political organization. In IS^^iJ his zeal and labors in
behalf of his party, received honorable recognition by being
nominated and elected to represent the counties of Monroe
Randolph and Perry in the Twenty-third General Assembly
of the state. While a member of that body he served on
several important committees, and took an active interest in
the legislation and laws enacted at that session.
326
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
C^'^t/^^:^^^/r<^^^rZ^-^<^V^i^^^^
The present superintendeut of schools of Monroe county
is a native of Cumberland count}', New Jersey. He is the
son (>f Henry and Dorcas Hilyard. Mr. Hilyard was
reared upon the farm, and like farmer's sons spent the
winter months in the public schools of his neighborhood
wherein he received bis primary education. His academical
education was received in the academy at Bridgeton, Cum-
berland county, N. J. lu 1865 he entered the business
college at Poughkepsie, New York, and remained there
until completing a full course. In 1866 he came west to St-
Louis, and soon after came to Monroe county, Illinois, and
here began teaching school, in which profession he con-
tinued for ten years. In 1873 his zeal and industry in the
cause of education received honorable and suitable recogni-
tion by being elected superiutendent of the schools of Monroe
county. In 1877 he was re-elected, and under the change
in the law with regard to the time of holding elections, held
over until 1882, when he was electedf for the third time,
and at present is discharging the duties of his office. These
frequent elections may be regarded as testimonials of Mr.
Hilyanl's energy aod efficiency iu building up the school
system of the county to the high standard that it now occu-
pies. On the 1st of January, 1879, he was united in
marriage to Miss Mary Jane Fults, who was born in
Mitchie precinct. By that uoion there are two children,
whose names are Horace M. and Perry C. Hilyard. Mr.
Hilyard is a member of the ancient and honorable order of
A F. A. M. and holds membership with Columbia Lodge,
No. 474, and also is a member of Belleville Chapter, No.
106, and Tancred Commandery, No. 50, Belleville, 111. He
belongs to Waterloo lodge. No. 27, I. O. O. F , and
Encampment No. 106, and also belongs to the beneficiary
order, A. O. U. W. of MonroeLodge, No. 165. During
the past four years Mr. Hilyard has been clerk in the
office of the sheriff of the county, and cdlects all the taxes
and disburses the same.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
327
WILLIAM ERD.
Judge William Erd is a native of Hesse Darmstadt,
Germany, born February 22, 1828. He was educated in tlie
excellent schools of his native country. In 1842 he came to
America and settled in Monroe county, Illinois, and here
worked upon a farm until 1845 when he received the ap-
pointment of deputy circuit clerk, under W. R. Morrison.
The same fall Mr. Morrison resigned the office of clerk to
take a seat in the Legislature, and Mr. Erd was appointed
to fill out the unexpired term. In 1856 Mr. Erd was elected
circuit clerk and was reelected every succeeding four years,
and served until the latter part of 1870. In 1877 he was
elected county Judge and under the amended law, regulating
the time for holding elections, held over until 1882 when he
was reelected to the same position. Hisi present term will
expire in 1886. Politically, Judge Erd has been a life long
Democrat.
CHARLES METZGER.
The subject c.f the following sketch was born in Kirch-
heim under Teck, Wurtemberg, Germany, December 27th,
1840. He is the third son of John and Caroline (Kicherer)
Metzger. Charles received his early education in the latin
schools and gymnasiums of his native city. His father was
a man in good financial circumstances, and was an iron
manufacturer. In the spring of 1860 young Metzger left
Germany and came to America and came direct to the west.
He settled in St. Louis, and soon after engaged as salesman
in a grocery and provision store in which capacity he
remained two years. He then engaged in the business for
himself. He carried on the mercantile business for two
years and then sold out and engaged as clerk in a wholesale
house.
Three years later he engaged in the commission business
in which he continued for some time. In the year 1873, Mr.
Metzger became, a re.sident of Waterloo. Here he clerked
for his brother in law, George L. Riess, the present county
Judge of Randolph county, Illinois. In 1875 Mr. Metzgar
secured the appointment of deputy couDty clerk, under Paul
C. Brey, and has continued to be deputy clerk to the present.
The same year 1875 he was elected a justice of the peace to
to fill out an unexpired term, aud in 1^77 was elected for
the full term and reelected in 1881.
It may, also be mentioned that Mr. Metzger has been a
member of the board of Trustees of Waterloo for the past
three years, and has been clerk for that body during that
time.
On the 11th of February, 1865 he was united in marriage
to Miss Anna Victoria, daughter of Rev. John J. and Vic-
toria (Petit) Riess. Mrs Metzger was born in Ceutervilie,
(now MillstadtJ St. Clair county, Illinois, by that union they
have had born to them three children, whose names in the
order of their birth are, Ida, Alfred and Arthur Metzger.
In politics Mr. Metzger was originally a Republican and
remained, a member of that political organization until 1872,
when he, like thousands of other men of an independent turn
of mind, " liberalized " as it was called and voted for Horace
Greeley for president. He soon after joined the Democratic
party and has remained a true and steadfast supporter of its
principles to the present. He is a member of the ancient
order of A F. & A. M., and also belongs to the Chapter and
Commandery. He is also a member of the I O. O- F., and
Haunagari Lodge (beneficiary) No 376, and a member of
Knights of Honor Lodge. Mr. Metzger is held in high
esteem by those who know him best. He posseses fine social
qualities and has hosts of friends. In the capacity of deputy
county clerk he ha.s always been found efficient, courteous
and accommodating, aud makes it pleasant for all who come
in contact with him.
DR. HUGO ROTUSTEIN.
Dr. Rothstein, a prominent physician of Waterloo, was
born in Linnep Rhine, Prussia, December 31, 1838. His
family occupied a good standing in society, and he received
■A thiiruugh education and was a student in the priucii)ai
German Universities. He came to America in 1857, and
went directly to the west, and spent seven months in the
then unexplored region of the Rocky mountains afterward
embraced in the territory of Montana and Idaho. In 1858
Dr. Rothstein located in St. Louis, Mo., and in 1859 re-
visited his home in Germany, but returned the same year
to St. Louis, where in 1861 he opened an office as physician,
having for two years pursued the study of medicine in Pope
medical college. He had previously studied medicine in
Germany. He is a graduate of the Missouri Medical Col-
lege. He continued the practice in St. Louis, afteward at
Pilot Knob, Mo., was medical inspector in the United States
Army, and in May, 1865, came to Waterloo, aud here he
has by industry and careful attention to his duties built up
a large and lucrative practice. On the 28th of March, l.Hti3,
he was united in marriage to Miss Louise, daughter of
Morris Wuerpel, of St Louis, Mo.
PETER BICKELHAUPT
Was born in Germany in March, 1831 ; he is the son of
Philip and Eva (Arras) Bickelhaupt. His father was a
weaver by trade; he came to America in 1S49, landing at
New Orleans and from there came north to St. Louis, and
frona there went to Centeryille, in St. Clair county, and in
the latter place Peter learned the blacksmith trade. He re-
mained in Centreville three and a half years, then went to
Burlington, Iowa, and remained there until 185<>, when he
settled in Mayesville in Monroe county aud then followed
his trade. He afterward went to Monroe City and opened a
saloon and also engaged in the milling business In 1871
he came to Waterloo and took charge of the City Hotel as
proprietor, and has conducted it to the present. Under
his management the City Hotel has acquired a reputation
for good cheer. Politically Mr. Bickelhaupt is a Democrat.
He has occupied several offices of local trust, and at present
is a member of the Board of Trustees of Waterloo.
328
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
/C'C^^I^^^^tt^^^ /^^^
The subject of the following sketch is a native of Wur-
temberg, Germany. He was born November 11, 1850. He
is the .sou of Joseph and Matilda ( Walz) Von Schlierholz,
and the third in a family of six children. His father is and
has been for a number of years chief engineer and counsellor
of the Royal Wurtemberg Railway, and is a resident of
Stuttgart. Charles was educated at the university of Tue-
bingen and Stuttgart and in the Polytecnic Institute at
Lautrach, Germany, where he studied engineering and
surveying. Subsequently he was employed in the engineer-
ing department of the Royal Wurtemberg Railway, under
the direction of his father, and there received a practical
knowledge of civil engineering and surveying. In 1868 he
passed his military examination. He remained in the ser-
vice of the above-named company until June, 1870. The
following fall he emigrated to America, and came direct to
St. Louis, where he spent a few months, then went to Chi-
cago, and there followed surveying and engineering until
after the great fire of 1871, after which he went to Bloom-
ington and taught school. Soon after he was employed by
Messrs. Warner & Beers, map publishers, as topographer
and draughtsman, and remained with that firm until 1874.
In October, 1874, he came to Waterloo, Monroe county, and
here he has remained to the present- Since he has been a
resident of this county he has followed his profession, and
at the present time holds the position of drainage and levee
engineer of the districts in the county. In 1881 he held a
similar position in Randolph county.
On the 2.5th of June, 1875, Mr. Schlierholz was united in
marriage to Miss Christina Sopp, a native of Waterloo.
By that union there were two daughters, named Matilda and
Flora Schlierholz. He is a member of the Order of K. of H,
No. 1939, and is district deputy of the Order. He is also a
member of the beneficiary order of A. O. U. W. Lodge No.
165, and Treubund, No. 5, and Harrugari, No. 365. Politi-
cally, Mr. Schlierholz was originally a Republican, but in
1880 he joined the Democratic ranks, and has since re-
mained a staunch advocate of the principles of the latter
political organization.
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPU, MONROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
329
GEORGE E. JAHN,
The present able editor of the " Times," Witerloi, U a
native of St. L^iiis, M)., bora Saptembsr 2 4, ISil. H; is the
son of John T. H and Catherine Elizabeth Jahn, who were
natives of Nassau, near Weisbaden, Gjrmany. Mr. Jahn,
the elder, was a believer and advocate of the republican
theories, the agitation of which led to the rev.)lution of
184H, and in which Mr. Jahn was oncjrnel. His pirtici-
pation in that short struggle placed hitn under the ban of
the government, and he came to America, landing here
in 1849. He settled in St Liuis and reraaineJ there until
1856, when he came to Monroe county and here died, in
1862. He was a jeweler by trade ; his wife died in 1874.
George E. is the youngest of the family. Hi recjivel a
good education in the public schools of the county, then
followed teaching for some time ; subsequent!)- entered the
office of the " Advocite," and learned the printer's trade.
In 1876 he edited the " Ava Register," in Jackson county,
Illinois. The paper was subsequently changed to the " Ava
News." The paper did effective service in thj campaign of
1S76, and advocated the claims of Samuel J. Tilden for the
presidency. lu December, 18S0, Mr. Jalin raturuel t)
Waterloo and took editorial charge of the 'Times," which
arrangement still continue.s. Oa the 5th of February, 1881,
he established the Monroe'' Freie Pfesse," a Garmin pap?r,
and has also conducted it to the present. Both papers are
strongly Democratic in tone, and under Mr. Jahu's manage.
ment have risen to be very popular, and are recognized
among the prominent and potential organs of the pirty in
southern Illinois Mr. Jahn is an unswerving Democrat.
He is a member of the I. 0. O. P., and at present is at the
head of the order (N. G.), in Waterloo Lodge No. 27. He
is also a member of K. of H. Urbana Lodge, No. 1839, and
member and speaker of Turner Society, Waterloo, Illinois.
On the 10th of October, 1878, he was united in marriage to
Miss Mary J., daughter of James and Harriet (Hatfield)
Rainey. She was born in Jackson county Illinois.
Hoy. AMBROSE HOENER
Was born at Cologne on the Rhine, Germany, in 1825. He
comes from a sturdy, long-lived German family; his father
was a wealthy merchant of the ab3ve-named place, and died
at the ripe old age of eighty-four years. His mother sur-
vived and died in her eighty-eighth year. Mr. Hoener
received a good education in the Latin schools and a thor-
ough education in the commercial college in Cologne, and
served an appreciative ap[)renticeship in the mercantile
business under the direction of his father. Subsequently he
traveled for a number of years for a large business house,
through Holland, Switzerland and the German states.
Being strongly impressed with republican iilcas and theo-
ries, his sympathies were enlisted on the part of the revolu-
tionists, although he was compelled tu serve in the Prussian
army opposing them in the uprising at Baden. In 1849 he
left Germany and emigrated to the United States. He settled
in St. Louis, but soon after went to St. Clair county, in Illi-
nois, and in 1851 came to Waterloo, where he has since
resided. He engaged in mercantile pursuits, which he
followed for two years, after which he was prevailed upon
to accept an official position. His peculiar ability and fitness
for public life was soon recognized, and he became the
recipient of the people's favor, and was repeatedly elected
to positions of honor and trust. He was assessor and
treasurer of Jlouroe county for four years, and county clerk
for twelve consecutive years, and police magistrate for eight
years. These frequent elections testify to his popularity,
and are testimonials to his worth as a man and citizen, and
his ability and fidelity as an officer of the county. Politi
cally he has always been an uncompromising Democrat,
giving an unqualified support to the principles and nominees
of that political organization. In 1876 he was selected to
be the senatorial standard-bearer for the 48th District. It
was believed that he was the most popular man for that
position, and was the one to harmonize all the antagonistic
and conflicting elements of the party, and bring out its full
strength. The prediction was verified in his election by the
large popular vote of 5,574 against 4 679 for his opponent,
an influential and popular Republican. While a member
of the state Senate Mr. Hoener was chairman of the com-
mittee on finance, and was also assigned to several other
important committees. While a member he earned the
reputation of being an able, industrious legislator and a
highly competent and creditable representative for his con-
stituents. His entire course in that body was marked by a
desire to legislate in the interest of the whole people rather
than in favor of the i'tw. During the protracted senatorial
struggle which resulted in the election of David Davis to
the United States Senate, Mr. Hoener being dissatisfied with
the tactics of the majority and desiring to hasten the busi-
ness of the Legislature, thereby saving the people much
money, arranged a meeting of the German members of both
houses, and proposed to them that in the event that Davis
was not elected on the first ballot after the reassembling of
the different bodies, that he would propose the name of E.y-
Governor Koerner. This arrangement was concurred in by
all the members present, but it coming to the knowledge of
the majority, they at once upon the next ballot elected
Judge Davis. We have no doubt his election was the re-
sult of the action of Mr. Hoener and his Gorman friends.
NEW DESIGN.
MONROE COUNTY.
■ss^Ntlie year 1786 the first settlements at
New Design seem to have been made.
The name is said to have arisen from the
circumstance that James Lemen, the
founder of the colony, observed that he
had a "new design" to make a settle-
ment south of Bellefontaine. The New
Design settlement, previous to 1800, con-
tained the largest American colony in
Illinois. It was the common rendezous
of the immigration from Kentucky and
Virginia, and with Bellefontaine, the
head qnartersof the whole American population in thelastcen-
turv. Its founders wereattracted by the elevated and beautiful
country, then prairie, afterward overgrown with timber, from
which the courses of both the Kaskaskia and the Mississippi
could be traced. The settlement rapidly increased in size,
and by the year 1790 a considerable number of families had
here made their homes. In 1800 the population is estimated
to have been two hundred and fifty. The location of James
Lemen's house, on survey 395, claims 502, about four miles
south of Waterloo, nearly marked the centre of the colony.
James Lenieu was born in Berkeley county, Virginia, in
the autumn of 1760. His grandfather had emigrated to
America imm the north of Ireland. Hisfiither died when
James was a year old. His mother married again and he
was raised in the Pje.sbyterian faith. In 1777, during the
war of the Revolution, he enlisted in the Virginia forces.
He took part in the battle of White Plains. He served in
the army two years, and then returned to Virginia. He
lived for a time in the vicinity of Wheeling, and their mar-
ried Catherine Ogle, daughter of Captain Joseph Ogle. He
came to Illinois in 1786, arriving in July, of that year, with
his family by a flat boat from Pittsburg, on the Ohio and
Mississippi rivers to Kaskaskia. After James Smith, a
Baptist preacher, arrived and preached in the New Design
settlement, Mr. Lemen professed religion, and thenceforth
he was an active member of the church. He was an earnest
opponent of slavery, and mere expressions of his in a sermon
preached in the Richland church in 1809, caused the division
that sprang up between the Baptist churches of southern
Illinois. He was Justice of the Peace for many years under
the Territorial government, and also acted as Judge of the
County Court. Hisfirstdwelling wasalog cabin, and he after-
wards built a brick house, which is still standing, and which
was the first brick house erected within the limits of the
present county of Monroe. His house stands on the north-
west part of claim 602, survey 395.
330
This tract was conceded
to James Lemen in right of his militia service. The building
is thirty by twenty feet, and contains four rooms, two above
and two below. Near by is the grave yard where rests the
remains of several members of the Lemen family and other
pioneers of that settlement. Elder James Lemen died on
the 9th of January, 1823. His wife died July 14, 1840,
aged seventy-five years. James Lemen raised a large family
of children ; six of his sons were preachers of the eospel ;
one, Robert, taught school a number of years, and was of
great benefit to the settlement. James, who was born at the
New Design, in 1787, was elected to several important public
positions. He served several times in both branches of the
State Legislature, and was a delegate from St. Clair county
to the convention which framed the first constitutioii of the
State. Early in the present century Robert, Joseph, and
James Lemen, Jr., removed to the Ridge prairie, in St Clair
county, and there made prominent settlements.
Captain Joseph Ogle was one of the pioneers of New De'
sign. H* was born in Virginia in 1744. He commanded
a company of Virginia troops during the Revolutionary war,
holding a commission as captain from Patrick Henry, then
Governor or Virginia. He came to Illinois from the neigh-
borhood of Wheeling, Virginia, in 1785. With him came
Joseph Worley, and James Andrews. He was a man of
untiring energy, and strong will power, in his honor one of
the counties of the State received its name. He professed
religion under the preaching of the Rev. James Smith, at
New Design in 1787, and was appointed leader, by the Rev.
Joseph Lillard, in 1793, of the first Methodist class ever
formed in Illinois. Members of the Ogle family removed
from New Design, and in 1796 made a settlement in the
American Bottom, near where the road from Bellefontaine to
Cahokia descended the bluff.
In 1802 Captain Ogle made one of the pioneer locations
in the Ridge prairie, near the present town of O'Fallon, in
St. Clair county, where he resided till his death, in 1821.
His descendants reside in St. Clair county.
In the year 1793 the most numerous colony Illinois, so far,
had received settled in and around, the New Design This
colony embraced families by the name of Whiteside, Griffin,
Gibbons, Enochs, Chance, Musick, and Going. In it were
many daring, enterprising, and influential men, whose ar-
rival was hailed with great satisfaction by the other settlers,
who were anxious to strengthen the colony against attacks
of the Indians. The Whitesides were born and raised in
North Carolina. They subsequently settled at Whitesides'
station, southeast of Columbia.
Joseph Kinney also reached the New Design settlement in
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
331
1793. He rai*:ed a crop during tlie siinimer of that year
and then returned to Kentueky for liis family, which he liad
left on Bear Grass creek, seven miles Ironi Louisville. From
the site of Louisville he descended the Ohio to Fort Massa-
cre, from which place he crossed the country to Kaskaskia,
and from there came to New Design settlement. He lived
on the Rock Horse creek until his death, in 1803. He ha('
seven sons and four daughters, wiio grew to years of
maturity. One of his daughters married Mr. Demint, in
Kentucky, in 1792. Demint came to Illinois, and made a
farm southeast of New Design. (In section eighteen, town-
ship three, range nine.) He was a pious man, and a good
citizen. One Sunday morning, while bridling his horse, to
go to meeting, the horse kicked him so .severely that he died.
This occurreil in the year 1811.
Andrew Kinney, son of Joseph Kinney, built a water
mill on the site of Mcmroe city. The youngest daughter
married Joseph Lenun, 1809. She had no education, what-
e.-er, at the time of htr marriage, but went to sciiool after-
ward, learned to read and write, and became the mother of
a large and respectable family of children. William Kinney
was born in Kentucky, in 1781, and was nearly thirteen
when he came to Illinois with his father. At nineteen he
married. In 180:! he removed to a place a few miles north,
cast of the present city of Belleville. In 1809 he opened a
store on his farm, and at that time could barely write. He
became interested in religion, was baptized in 1809, and af-
terward became a member of the Baptist ministry. He was
.several times elected, from .St. Clair county, to the State
Legislature, and in I'^^'iii became Lieutenant-Governor of the
State. He died in LSI:!.
Robert McMahan, a native of Virginia, came to Illinois,
from Kentucky, in 1793, and settled at New Design. The
next year he selected a location for a farm southeast of New
Design, in what is now known as the Yankee Prairie. Here
several members of his family were murdered by Indians on
the twenty-sixth of January, 1795. The circumstances of
this affair are elsewhere related. This massacre took placi-
(jn the northeast quarter of section nineteen, township three,
range nine, about a mile west of Burksvillc station. Me.
Mahan removed to Ralls' riilge, in Randolph county, and
thence to the vicinity of Troy, in Madison county, where he
died in 1822.
In the years 1790 ami I7'.I7 important additions were
made to the New Design settlement. Solomon Shook and
Mr. Borer arrived from Virginia in 179(), and the next year
witnessed the coming of a large colony from the country
adjacent to the south branch of the Potomac in Hardy
countv, Virginia. A year or so jjrevious David Badgeley,
Leonard Carr, Daniel Stookey, Abraham Eyeman, Mr.
Whetstone and Abraham Stookey, made the journey to Ill-
inois from Virginia on horseback and thoroughly explored
the country with the view of selecting a good location for
their neighbors in Virginia David Badgeley, who was a
Baptist preacher, held religious meetings in the American
settlements.
The summer of 1797 was uncommonly wet and rainy,
and the streams between Fort Massacre and Kaskaskia were
all swollen beyond their banks. After arranging their
wagons and horses and making all things ready for the jour-
ney, they set out from Fort Massacre for New Design. The
ravages of disease carried off almost one-half of this Vir-
ginia colony during the first sunuuer and fall of their arrival.
The prevailing sickness was a malignant fever supposed to
be contagious. Scarcely a household but mourned the loss
of one or more of its members.
After 1797 the country was healthy, and that part of the
colony which remained did well, and furnished many valua-
ble citizens. The Carr, Stookey, Eyeman, Shook, Mitchell,
Clark, Badgeley, Teter, Miller and other families left numer-
ous and resi)cctable descendants. About 1800 many, among
whom were Edward and Thomas To<ld, moved from New
Design to the American Bottom. The neighborhood of the
present city of Belleville in St. Clair county received a
number of early settlers from this colony.
David Bedgeley was one of the earliest Baptist ministers
in Illinois. During his first visit in 1797 he preached in the
settlement from the 4th to the 3()th of May, and ba|)tized
fifteen persons. Among the fcttlers was Joseph Chance who
had been set apart as a lay elder in Kentucky. He and
Elder Badgeley organized, with twenty-eight members, the
first Baptist Church in Illinois. If was ca led the N(!w De-
sign Church. Jaines Smith, a Bajitist preacher from Ken-
tucky, preached here in 1787, and Joseph Lillard, a Metho-
dist, in 171'3. John Clark, a Scotchman by birth, who had
followed the seas in early life, and in 1781 had been pressed
into service on board a British man-of-war, which lay off
( 'harleston harbor, and had swam ashore at the risk of hia
life, rather than fight the Americans, came to Illinois in
1797, and both preached and taught school at New Design.
He is said to have been the first preacher of the gospel to
cross the Mississipfii and preach to the Americans west of
the river, a proceeding contrary to the regulations of the
Roman Catholic Spanish government of Upper Lnuisiana.
Elder Joseph (.'hance, who with David Badgeley, organized
the pioneer Baptist church in Illinois, was born in Delaware
in 170-3. He removed to North Carolina, thence to Kentucky,
and in 171*4 came to Illinois. One of the earliest movements
in Illinoii toward forming a Bible Society was made at Nesv
Design.
The first American school teacher in Illinois was a resi-
dent of the New Design settlement, and there taught his
first school This was John Seeley. He first came to Illi-
noss in 178.'!. An early physician named Wallace attended
to the sick at New Design in 1797.
The Tolin family is one of the oldest in the precinct, com-
ing from N'irginia, and settling near where Burksvillc now
stands in the last century. Isaac Tolin, who was a small
boy when became to Illinois, married Susan Dendnt. The
oldest sou by this marriage was Judge George Tolin, for
three terms one of the judges of the Monroe county court
who died in l'S74.
The farm on section seven of township three, rangti nine,
now owned by Valentine Schneider, was, in early years, the
house of Joshua McMurtrey. He was from Virgiiua. In
1818 a number of families came from Ohio, chiefly from
332
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
the vicinity of Marietta. Some of them settled in the Prai-
rie, and from that circumstance it was called Yankee Prairie.
One of these immigrants was Rev. Daniel Hilton, a minister
of he Baptist church. For many years he was pastor of the
Fountain Creek Baptist Church. Several of his descendants
reside in the county. Daniel M. Barker, a native of Ver-
mont, settled in the New Design prairie in 1818. In 1854
he removed to Red Bud where he died. He had nine chil-
dren, Hiram, Lewis, Albert, Miron, Eveline, Melceua,
Susan, Eliza and Daniel Perry, of whom Lewis alone now
resides in this county- Several became residents of Ran-
dolph county. Zebediah Barker, the father of Daniel M.
Barker, settled a mile and a half west of the present town
of Burksville, on land novv owned by H. Johanning.
With the Ohio immigration came the Norton and Oilman
families which settled on Dry run, south of Burksville.
Moses Varnum, born at Belfast, Maine, came from Ohio
with his family in 1818. Jewett and Justus Varnum were
his two sons and he had two daughters, one of whom mar-
ried Daniel M. Barker. Jewett Varnum made an improve-
ment in the northwest quarter of section seventeen, township
three, range nine, and Justus on the southeast quarter of
sictiou eighteen.
Among later settlers in the precinct were Eben Alexan-
der and John Durfee, who came about the year 1837, and
entered land on Horse Creek. They built a saw mill on
Horse creek. Richmond Durfee, a newphrw of Alexander
Durfee, started a store half a mile northwest of the present.
Burksville station, the first store in this part of the county.
After a year or two it was removed to the Horse prairie,
near the county line. He afterward started a store in Red
Bud. The Durfees were natives of Fall River, Massachu-
setts, and came to Illinois from Ohio. Harrison Druce, a
native of the Stale of New York, settled where he now lives,
in section sixteen, township three, range nine, in 1842.
John Murphy and his son James settled near Cambria sta-
tion in 1840. Soon after 183.5 a number of families of Irish
descent settled in the precinct, among which were the Sennot,
McLaughlin, Burns, Dugan, Lynch, Donahue, Cooney,
Dwyer and Butler families. St. Patrick's Catholic church
was established in their neighborhood.
There are two stations of the St. Louis and Cairo railroad,
Cambria and Burksville stations, within the limits of the
precinct. There are three post-ofSces, Burksville and New
Design, at Burksville station ; and Tipton at Cambria.
BURKSVILLE.
The commencement of the growth of the town of Burksville
was the starting of a store in 1851 by John G. Burk-
hardt and John Metzler Burkhardt was a resident of
St Louis. Napoleon Fitzpatrick was taken in as a partner
in 1854, but in about a year afterward disposed of his
interest to the other raembtrs of the firm. The store was
purchased in 1857 by Paul C. Brey, and the same year
Jacob Miller, subsequently a resident of Red Bud, was
made a partner. Afterward Mr. Brey became again the sole
owner, and continued the store until 1864, when Francis
Schifferdecker obtained an interest, which in 1866 he sold
to Alexander Durfee, who died in 1868. The store was
burned in 1872, and Mr. Brey then formed a partnership
with Anton Langjdorf, which continued till 1874, since
which time the business has been carried on by Mr. Langs-
dor f.
The second store was established in 1856 by Miron
Barker and Rudoljjh Kuederle. Frederick Zimmerraaun
and George Baum also carried on the mercantile business
for a time. The original town site was owned by John P.
Brown, who sold the lots in parcels. The name of Burks-
ville was given the place in 1857 in honor of John G. Burk-
hanlt.
An addition known as " Hendricks' addition" was then
made in 1858 by Gerhardt J. Hendricks, and one in 1868
by Fred Burkhardt. A post office was established in 1857
and Paul C. Brey appointed the first postmaster. He re-
tained the office till his removal from the place in 1874,
since which time the position has been filled by Anton
Langsdurf The town contains about twenty dwelling
houses, and has a population of about one hundred and
twenty.
There is an Evangelical Lutheran church, and one of
the same denomination two miles and a half south. The
business interests of the place are now represented as follows:
merchants, Anton Langsdorf and Charles Boehne&Son;
shoemaker, Frederick Zimmermann ; saw mill and black-,
smith shop, Frederick Meyer ; blacksmith, William Enrich ;
wagon maker, William Klein ; harness maker, Jacob
Blette; hotels, Fred Burkhardt and Anton Conrad. Burks-
ville is nearer than any other town to the geographical
centre of the county. At Burksville station on the railroad
two miles distant, a store is carried on by Jacob B.
Berger.
332A
MOREDOCK.
'U'' ^ t^J^ OREDOCK precinct lies wholly in the
^». American Bottom. Within its limits
f-L^f: jfn^fi-r^y A were made some of the earliest settle-
's ^- /!^f>-,vV'' / roents in Illinois, and it has been the
home of many dirtinguished and cele-
brat d men. One of the first improve-
ments was made bj'Shadrach Bond who
settled in the bottom near the mouth of
Dug hollow in the year 1782. He was a native of Maryland,
and was raised near the city of Baltimore. He held a con-
spicuous position among the early settlers of the county.
Although quiet, unassumingand unambitious, he was several
times elected a representative in the legislatures of both the
Indian and Northwestern territory, and for many years was
justice of St. Clair county court of common pleas, before
Monroe Co. was organized. He was familiarly known as
Judge Bond. He had a strong mind and a liberal and
generous disposition. He was not ambitious for wealth but
was the owner of a large body of laud. Claim 322, survey
399, was granted to him (the confirmation being made by
Gov. St. (.;lair) in right of an old French concession. This
comprised four hundred acres, and extended from the foot
of the bluff to the bottom. Claim .'521, survey 4(10, contain
ing four hundred acres, is the grant of land which he obtain-
ed by virtue of his improvement. His house was at the mouth
of Dug hollow, in the bottom a short distance from the
bluff, and some scattered stones still remain to mark its site.
On his death he was buried in the old graveyard on the bluff
just above his residence.
At the same time with Bond, James Garretson came to
Illinois. He settled first near Bellefontaine, a mile north-
east of the present town of AVaterloo, where four hundred
acres of land was given him on account of the improvement
he there made. He subsequently made his home in the
bottom. He was the owner of claim 2609, survey 107, con-
firmed to him in right of the militia claims of himself , James
Bryan, and Benjamin Ogle. On the tenth of December, 1788,
while hauling hay in company with Benjamin Ogle, he was
attacked by two Indians. Ogle was struck in the shoulder
by a ball, Garretson escaped. In stacking the same hay
Samuel Garretson, a brother to James Garretson, and a man
named Reddick, were killed and scalped by the Indians.
James Garretson on the eighteenth of March, 1800, married
Mary Carr, daughter of Joseph Carr, who came to the new
design settlement in 1794. It was right after his marriage
that he settKd in the bottom of what is now Moredock pre-
ciuct. He was an honest and upright citizen, and an or
dained preacher in the Baptist church.
MONROE COUNTY.
One of the most remarkable persons who ever lived in
this part of the country, was John Moredock. In his honor
the precinct received its name. His house was on the south
side of Moredock lake on the farm now owned by William
Wincklemann. His father, Barney Moredock, having died,
his mother married as her second husband Michael Huff,
and in the year 1786, the family set out from the Monun-
gahela country, in western Penusylvania, for Illinois. They
embarked in a boat on the Ohio at Red Stone, where the
town of Brownsville was afterward built. While ascending
the Mississijipi, they encamped for the night near the Cirand
Tower. Here the party was attacked by the Indians. Mrs.
Hufl', and one of her sons were killed. The body of the
woman was frightfully mangled before the eyes of her son,
John Moredock. The rest of the famil y came to whatis now
Monroe county. The list of land grants made on account of
the improvements shows that Huff, at an early date, began
the cultivation of a farm about a mile north of the site of
Waterloo. The family subsequently settled in the American
Bottom. Mr. Huffwas killed by the Indians between Prairie
du Rocher and Kaskaskia. The calamities which the Indi-
ans had visited on his family excited deep feelings of hatred
and vengeance in the bieast of young Moredock, and he
swore eternal enmity against the .'•avage race. He was a
boy svhen ho came to Illinois, and his mind and character
were formed under the peculiar circumstances ihat belong to
a wild and new country. He had little opportunities for
education. He ci uld merely read and write, and pi .s.scssed
a scant acquaintance with the rules of arithmetic. In 1803,
he was elected a member of the territorial legislature, which
convened at Vincenues the same year, he was a man of
much strong common sense and though young made a good
legislator. He had some talent and ta^te for military life.
He was first Captain of a company, and afterward became
Major of a battalion. In 1814 he was elected to the legis-
lative assembly held at Kaskaskia, under the territorial gov-
ernment. He had two daughters, but neither of whom left
children ; they were excellent rifle shots, and it is said of
them, that they could take off" the head ofasquirrel from the
top of the tallest tree Major Moredock was in the service
during the war of 1812 — 14 as Major. He died in 1830.
At the mouth of Trout hollow in early times lived a Ger-
man by the name of Jacob Trout, after whom the hollow
received the name which it still bears. He was a tanner
and traces of his old tan vats can still be discovered in the
hollow a short distance from the bottom. He had a wide
reputation for making an excellent quality of leather, and
grew rich. An old lady, still living, Mrs PheLe Miller
333
334
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
relates that one of the wonders of her childhood, was a visit
to Trout's house and the sight of a chest full of silver dollars.
Alter liviug at this place many years he moved to a farm on
the river where he died.
Benjamin Byram lived for many years north of Moredock,
where he was the owner of claim 825, survey 582, compris
ing four hundred acres of land. This claim was given him
in virtue of an improvement right, he having settled here
previous to the year 1788. On claim 1417, survey 771, lying
between Moredock lake and the bluffand immediately below
the mouth of Trout hollow, Elisha Nelson made the first
improvement. He lived there a few years, the grant of land
obtained as account of his improvement passing into the
possession of Shadrach Bond, and afterward into that of
John Moredock. Clainns597, survey 5G2, on the river a mile
below Smith's landing, is a grant of four hundred acres made
on account of an 'jiuproveinent here made in early times
by James Curry. How long he lived there is not known.
He was one of Clark's soldiers, and a man of great bravery
and hardihood. He came to the neighborhood of Kaskaskia
shortly after the year 1780, and in the spring of 1788 had
a desperate fight with the Indians. A ferry was carried on
from the Missouri side of the river at this point in early
times, for the claim is described as situated " on the bank of
the Mississippi river, opposite Smorlesses' Ferry." The Rev.
David Badgeley who had previously preached at the New
Design, preached in the American Bottom during the winter
of 1797 — 98, and with Elder Joseph Chance, formed a
Baptist church in this pricinct in April 1798, Aaron Badge-
ley lived on Moredock Lake, nearer Harrisonville.
On claim 576, survey 402, at the bend of Fountain creek,
east of Smith's Landing the first improvement was made by
Robert Watts. George Atcheson succeeded to his right to the
grant, and lived here for many years. In early times a
brick house was built near the creek, on that part of the
claim now owned by Philip Jehling and which was known
as the George Atcheson house. Andrew Porter, in former
years, occupied the farm in the bend of the creek, included
in claim 576, which is now owned by James Dacre. He mar-
ried a daughter of James Garretson as has been before re-
marked. Daniel Shook, an early resident of the precinct, who
came to Illinois from Pennsylvania, settled on claim 851,
survey 406. He carried on a blacksmith shop and farm.
Joseph, Benjamin and Jacob Shook were his sons. Farther up
Fountain creek lived a man named Brewer. Solomon Shook,
a brother of Daniel Shook, lived on claim 620, survey 564, on
the north side of Moredoch lake, on land owned by John
Sennot, on claim 917, survey 563. Ichabod Valentine lived in
early times. The brick house on claim 309, survey 423, was
built by Dan. Sink. It is one of the oldest houses now standing
on Eagle prairie. It and the Atcheson house were the only
two brick houses in this part of the county. In the assessment
of 1817, Sink's house was assessed at six hundred dollars,
within one hundred dollars of the highest valuation placed
on any dwelling-house in the county, two others being
assessed at seven hundred. On claim 957, survey 422,
Henry Starr lived at an early period.
Jehu Scott for many years lived on a farm included
in claim 578, survey 420. He was a native of Maryland,
and was mostly raised in Washington county, Pennsylvania-
He learned the blacksmith trade in Pennsylvania, and
moved to Kentucky. lu 1797 he came to Illinois and
settled in the bottom, in Moredock precinct. His second
wife was Polly Kinkead, daughter of James Kinkead, who
came to Illinois in 1786. He carried on a blacksmith shop.
He was in the ranging service during the war of 1812-14.
He died near Freeburg in St Clair county, in January, 1840
The house in which he lived, in the east part of claim 578,
is still standing, though additions and alterations to it have
have since been made. Below Scott a man named Jameson
made an early improvement. William Walker, a native of
Wheeling, W. Va , settled near the old Donner place,
between that farm and the brick church, in 1825, His
daughter became the wife of Austin James.
One of the earliest permanent settlers near the river was
John Robbins, who lived about a mile south of east from
Smith's Landing, on land owned by Joseph Meyer. About
the year 1><20 he had a farm of forty acres under cultivation,
and worked industriously at his trade of a shoemaker.
The Murdick family came from Kentucky, and settled in
the bottom near Judge Bond in 1796. Her husband dying
the next year, Mrs. Murdick married George Blair, after-
ward the first proprietor of Belleville. John Murdick, her
son, was born in Kentucky in 1790, and was a soldit-r in the
second war with Great Britian. After the close of the war
of 1812-14 he enlisted in the regular army, and he died in
the United States service.
One of the oldest residents of the precinct is now Rugus
Merrimau. His father, William Merriman, was a colored
man whom Governor Shadrach Bond brought from Mary-
land. His mother, Abagail Warner, was a bound girl be-
longing to Judge Shadrach Bond. Merriman was born in
the bottom, where his whole life has been passed.
Stephen W. Miles, then a young man of twenty-four, em-
igrated to Illinois and settled at Eagle Cliffs in 1819; he
was born at Cazenova, Madison county, New York. He
married Lucretia Shook. He became the owner of large
tracts of land and a prominent citizen of the county. Eagle
Cliffs was the name given to a post-office, first established
under the blufl", at the mouth of Dug hollow, whence the
name. Its location was afcerward changed, and abandoned
on the establishment of the Merrimac Point post-ofiice.
On the summit of the bluff, immediately below Dug
hollow, is an old burying ground in which repose the re-
mains of many of the pioneers in this part of the county.
The situation is beautiful, and commands a far-reaching view
of the fertile bottom lands, of the Mississippi river, and of
the opposite shores of Missouri. Judge Bond was buried
here, and John Moredock, and the tombstones disclose the
names of members of the Livers, Shook, James, Miles, Todd,
Voris, Alexander, and other families. The large and costly
vault used by the Miles family can be seen from a consider-
able distance. It is handsomely constructed of stone, with
marble doors, and the inscription shows that it was erected
in 1858 by Stephen W. Miles, to be used as a burial place
fur himself, his family and descendants, under the care and
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
335
direction, in succession, of the oldest male heir of the
family.
Fountain creek, which traverses this j)art of the bottom
for many miles, was called by the French I'Aigle creek.
Eagle prairie has retained its French name of I'Aigle
prairie.
PIIsrCKNEYVILLE.
PERRY COUNTY.
UNCKNEYVILLE Precinct is the
largest in the county. It comprises
all of town four, range three, lying
south of sections seventeen and
eighteen, as well as all south of
Swanwiek creek ; all of township
two, range two, lying west of sec-
tions two, eleven and eighteen, and
west of Little Beaucoup creek, — all of town five, range
three, — and all that part of township six, range three, lying
west of Beaucoup creek and northeast of Galum creek. The
surface is undulating, with here and there a small prairie.
The greater portion, however, was formerly covered with a
heavy growth of timber, most of which has long since been
removed to give place to productive farms. The soil is
fertile and well adapted to agriculture. The precinct is
well watered and drained by Beaucoup, Little Beaucoup,
and Galum creeks, with their numerous small tributaries.
Lake Breese is a handsome sheet of water near Pinckney-
ville. Beaucoup and Grand Cote bound it on the north ;
Tamaroa and Du (^uoin on the east ; Jackson county and
South Western on the south ; Cutler and Grand Cote on the
west. Population (1880) 3,589
Pinckneyville Precinct takes its name from the county
seat. The county seat received its name from the act incor-
porating the county, which provided in its second section :
"that the seat of justice, when established in the county,
should be known as Pinckneyville."
If we are to receive the tradition from father to son, this
precinct is the first settled portion of the county. In
1799, John Flack came with his family and settled in Four
Mile Prairie, on or near the place where Benton Ozburn
now lives, the southwest quarter of section 11, town 6, range
3. When he settled there, he found only one other white
family living in the county, and their name was Cox. They
lived on Claim No. 1410, .Survey No. 459, where sections 17
and 18 are located, in town six, range two — the only claim
and survey in Perry county. Whence and when Cox came
to our county, or what became of him after having clothed
himself with the honor of being the first settler of ourcounty,
we know not. We only know, from tradition, that Flack
found Cox here in 1799, and that Mr. Cox di.-^ajipears, so
far as the history of our county is concerned.
The original John Flack left a son, John Flack, who was
born in 1803, and whom our first settlers found living in
Four Mile, when they first came to this precinct
Fergus Milligan came from Iredell county. North Caro-
lina, in the spring of 1827, first settling three miles north-
west of Pinckneyville, on what is yet called Milligan Hill.
He improved the farm belonging to the Harmonies. In the
fall of 1827 he removed to the Four Mile Prairie, and made
himself a home on the southwest quarter of the southeast
quarter of section 11, town 6, south range 3. This pioneer
had a family of nine children when he came to the county,
whose names were : Abner M., John, Milton, Thomas B.,
William R., Joseph B., sons; and three daughter. He died
some years ago, after seeing the wonderful change in the
development of the county.
About the year 1818 or 1819, it is said, a man named
Bates, or Bets, made some little improvements on the banks
of Beaucoup. about three miles south of the present site of
Pinckneyville ; and tradition has it that Bates came home
from Kaskaskia one night terribly wounded and cut to
pieces, from the effects of which wounding he died ; and that
he was buried about ten rods west of the old coal bank.
How and from whom he received the wounds is not known.
Indeed, the family had abandoned the county when our set-
tlers, in 1820, came into the county- Traces, however, re-
mained to show improvements of a rude kind made near the
place described, which is strong evidence that somebody
had been there. Whether it was Bates or not we have no
positive information.
B. A. Brown and family settled in Six Mile Prairie about
1815. We have no further trace of this family. In 1822,
Shadrach Lively settled in this precinct in southwest corner
of Holt's Prairie.
Matthew Jones settled on the wesl side of Holt's Prairie
about 1826. John Hazzard came with Jones, or about the
same time. They were from Tennessee. Also, John Berry,
from Tennessee, settled in Holt's Prairie in 1826.
Abner Flack, from S.uth Carolina, settled in Four Mile
Prairie in 1826. George Franklin settled one-half mile
south of Pinckneyville in 1826.
H. B. Jones came to Pinckneyville, and settled near the
site of the Old Spring, April 21, 1827.
Humphrey B. Jones, a Kentuckian, came to Browns-
ville, Jaikson county, tWn State, first in April, 1821, pre-
vious to coming to this county.
336
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES. ILLINOIS.
Ephraim Bildeiback and Charles Garner came to Four
Mile Prairie and settled in the southwest part of it in 1826.
The)' came from Randolph county.
Jonathan Petit came from Randolph, and settled on what
is now our County Poor Farm in 1827.
Robert Woodside, James Kinzey and William Armstrong
came to the Four Mile and settled in 1829. They were
Kentuckians.
In 1828, James Steele (father of John St-ele), and Wil-
liam Craig settled in Four Mile Prairie.
Berry Crain, from New York, and McDowell, from
North Carolina, settled in the south end of Four Mile Prairie
in 1828.
In 1 830, James Woodside (father of S. M. Woodside), set-
tled on the west half of northeast quarter of section 7, town
6, range 2 west. They were from Kentucky.
A. Crawford was one of the old settlers of the south end
of Four Mile Prairie, — the date of his settlement not being
known, though it was previous to 1827, as he was then liv-
ing on what is now known as the Old Bill Murphy place.
Abner Flack surveyed the State Road from Shawneetown
to Kaskaskia, and gave Four and Six Mile Prairies their
present names.
The second store kept in Pinckneyville was by David
Baldridge in l-<30. His log-cabin store-house, which he
afterward built, occupied the lands where the buildings of
Charles Hoffman now stand, on the east side of the squares.
By reference to the county records we find that a license
was granted to David Baldridge by the county commis-
sioners' court to keep store in the county in 1831. He first
kept store in the court-house.
About 1827 and 1828, H. B. Jones kept the post-office at
his residence near the Spring. About the first paper that
■we have any account of coming to the county through the
post-ofRce was called the Kentucky Reporter.
Joseph Wells kept the first licensed tavern at Pinckue}'-
ville in the year 1829. His little log-cabin stood on the
corner where G. R. liinck it Bro.'s store building now is,
and was the first house ever put up in Pinckneyville. Wells
entertained travellers when the case demanded it.
From the old county records we find that the county com-
missioners' court rented the court house to David Baldridge
to keep store in, from April, 1830, to October, 1830. Except
during terms of court Baldridge was to pay seventy-five
cents a month rent for the use of it. The county records
also show that a merchant's license was granted to Josiah
B. Denning in the year 1830, and that a license was also
granted to Limmick & Denning in 1831. Denning started
his store in the same year with Baldridge, commencing
shortly after him. Previous to the establishment of dry
goods stores in Pinckneyville the settlers obtained their stock
at St. Louis, going on a kind of pilgrimage once or twice a
year for this purpose.
John Milligan, of Four Mile, states that he was oue of the
party who met at Pinckneyville in 1828 for the purpose of
cutting out the first roads from the place. They divided
into parties, opening the road north toward Nashville, an-
other toward Six Mile, west, and still another to the east
boundary of the county.
Among the first blacksmiths in Pinckneyville was Bergen
Happy. The first blacksmith that pretended to keep a stock
of iron on hand was William Neil. We were informed by
J. S. Wilson that he has in his possession a pair of old
dog-irons, as they are called, which he purchased at Michael
Baldridge's sale, and which are the workmanship of this pio-
neer blacksmith, Neil, and, what is more, he says, they are
pretty good yet. Joseph Craig, who resides in Grand Cote,
had a blacksmith shop west of Pinckneyville, near where
W. G. Wilson now lives, at an early day. He ironed the
first jail built in the county, in 1833-34. In 1825-26 the
farmers made most of their own plows. They were famil-
iarly known as the bull-tongue pattern of plow, and in many
instances were constructed out of a forked stick, one fork
answering to the beam, the other acting as plow and doing
the scratching, while rude handles were pinned to the main
branch. Our informant states that when the first settlers
Saw an iron plow at work in 1830 they declared it would
ruin the land, because it turned the ground up so sleek. The
first iron plows, if we are correctly informed, came from
Kaskaskia. Bergen Happy made the first plowshares at
Pinckneyville about 1830. They were known as the Carie
plow. Alexander did the stocking part The mouldboard
was generally a slab split from a twisted post oak in order
to give it the proper curve,
Alexander Nelson, who came to this county from Ireland
in 1832, was a wagonmaker, and perhaps the first in the
precinct. He lived two miles southwest of Pinckneyville.
He generally went round in the neighborhood and begged
seasoned white oak rails, out of which to make the running
gear of the wagons. Bergen Happy did the iron work.
Matthew Thompson was the first wagonmaker to put up a
shop in Pinckneyville ; this was about the year 1833.
Previous to 1830 a great many truck wagons were made ;
the wheels being made of sections sawed from sycamore or
black gum logs. Of that class of wagons every man was his
own manufacturer. With a heavy load, on a dry day, it
was no uncommon thing for the spindles to take fire. The
old settlers represent their screaking as loud enough to be
heard a mile on a still morning.
George Franklin was among our pioneer shoemakers. In
1829, Mr. Wilson states, he made Franklin one hundred
rails, while Franklin made him a pair of shoes. David
Baldridge sold the first pair of shoes at his store in Pinck_
neyville. Wash Glover was perhaps the first man tha^,
made shoes at Pinckneyville, in 1829. One of our old pio.
neers took him a piece of leather to have himself a pair of
shoes made ; the first pair he burned on the last and ruined,
and after he had taken still another piece of leather and cut
out another pair, he ran away.
In the matter of grist-mills, Pinckneyville had her share
in the early days. Previous to 1830 the settlers, or many of
them in this precinct, had their milling done at Elijah Well's
mill on the west side of Nine Mile. In 1829 they got some
grinding done at Shade Lively's mill in Holt's Prairie.
EISIORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
337
la 1839, Levi Green built a thread mill, six or eight miles
west of Pinckoeyville on the Chester road. It was operated
by six or eight oxen, and was considered about one of the
best mills iu the county. It was operated for several years.
The records of the county court contain an order of per-
mission to Amos Anderson (after an inquest by a jury of
ad quad damnum) to build a mill dam across Big Beaucoup
near the present crossing of the W. C. and W. R. R. Track.
We believe neither dam or mill was ever built. This occurred
in 1831, and in 1832 similar proceedings were had for the
erection of a dam across Beaucoup at the Woodside Ford.
Shade Lively had an old hand or tug mill in Holt's prairie.
It was put up in 1829, and run about four years. James
Woodside built a horse-mill on Beaucoup shoals in 1833
and '34. He died, however, before its completion, and his
son Samuel Woodside put it in operation and run it several
years, when he sold it to Robert Yearing, who removed it to
Nine Mile Prairie and ran it some vears. In 1840, John
Steele and John Elder put up a carding mill, and run it
several years on the place where John Hepp now lives.
In 1839, David Thomas built a steam saw mill, (the first
thing of the kind that we knew of in the county) on the lake
which bears his name, south of the present site of Pinckney-
ville, about a mile and a half distance. This mill was run
about four years. In 18.52, what is now known as Schulz's
old mill, was purchased by Wood & Kirkwood, of same
parties, on Mary's river, moved here and put up. At that
day it was an important thing. It too, however, has had
its day and generation. Blanton & Stilley put up a water
mill on Beaucoup, a short distance above Lake Breese,
about the year 1836, but it proved a failure after a few
years' trial. The floods destroyed it, and financially its
owners also. As before stated, Joseph Wells kept the first
saloon in Pinokneyville in 1827, and Humphrey B. Jones
the first postofiice in 1827 and '28. A minister named
Micajah Phelpj probably did the first preaching in Piiik-
neyville, at the little house that stood on Hincke's corner,
about 1828 or '29. Phelps was a Jlethodist. The first
camp meeting in the county is said to have been held at
Mud Prairie about 1838 or 1839. The Rev. James Gore,
Nathan G. Curlee, and Father Chase preached to a large
attendance. In Feb., 1830, Rev. S. C. Baldridge, an Associate
Reformed Presbyterian Minister, preached at the house of
James Brown, Sr. It was about this time the Hopewell Con-
gregation was founded. In 1831, the Rev. Peter Hagler, a
Baptist, preached at the house of James Thompson,
in Four Mile Prairie. The Hopewell was the first
church built in the county. Commenced in 1831 and com-
pleted in 1833. The members all united and worked to-
gether to build it under William Adair, chief carpenter. The
occasion of the interruption and delay in building
was Adair's absence in the Black Hawk War.
The first school taught in this precinct was in 1831, near
Robert Woodside's, in the western part of Four ilile
Prairie, in a little log house, 16x16 feet. The term lasted
six months, at 82. .50 a scholar. Webster's old spelling book
and Pike's arithmetic were the principal text books. In
1832, Eliza Smith, from Ky., kept school in a small log
43
cabin near Thomas Armstrong's. This schookhouse was
kept up about four years. S. M. Woodside also taught
school there. The New Testament, Webster's Spelling
Book, the first edition of Pike's Arithmetic, and the Colum-
bian Orator, were the standard text books. June 3, 1833,
the SheriflT, as the records of the County Commissioners
Court show, was authorized to let the court-house for a
school-room, for fifty cents rent per month, to be paid either
by the teacher or subscribers. In 1833, Bryant Bender
taught a neighborhood or family school in an old outhouse,
near where Cy. Willis lived. Books were so scarce that
they sometimes divided a Testament into two or three pieces,
so each might have a portion.
The first physician who practiced in Pinckney ville precinct,
was Dr. Brayshaw of Old Du Quoin, and Dr. Conrad Will of
Brownsville, Jackson county. Dr. Will, it is said, was very
fond of hunting, and, for that purpose, kept a pack of
hounds, which he would often take along, when he went to
see a patient and stay and hunt until the patient either got
better or died. He was elected to the legislature, sitting at
Vandalia, and to while away leisure hours he took his
hounds along with him to coon-hunt. Dr. H. B. Jones was
the first resident physician at Pinckneyville, settling there
in 1827.
The first resident lawyers were H. B. Jones, and W. B.
Edwards. Next came Sylvester Adams, B. G. Roots, and
Charles L. Starbuck. H. B. Jones held most of the principal
oflJices of the county at an early day. Few men in that early
day commanded the influence of H. B. Jones, and few men
have sustained such unbroken confidence in all the varied ca-
pacities iu which he served the people, whether as physician,
attorney, or ofiicer. H. B. Jones, the first lawyer, first cir-
cuit clerk, first recorder, first justice of the peace, first notary
public, first postmaster, first judge of probate, and the first
master in chancery in the county, was born in Shelby
county, Kentucky, January 13, 1799, and died at his home
in Pinckneyville, Nov. 18, 18.').'), without a stain upon his
name or character, private or public, honored, esteemed,
and respected by all who knew him.
The first lands entered in what is now Pinckneyville
township were as follows: March 2, 1813, James Flack, W.
* of S. W. J, section 14, 80 acres ; October 1, 1814, John
Flack, N. E. i of section 22, 160 acres; April 25, 181.'),
William Mcintosh, all of section 27, 640 acres; April 2.5,
181-5, S. Lavapein, S. i of section 10, 320 acres ; April 25,
1815, Alexander Douglass, N. J of section 10, 320 acres;
March 16, 1819, Roger Claxton, S. W. } of section 34, 160
acres ; and Benjamin Brown, W. i of the N. E. } of
section 19, 80 acres, all in town six south, range three west.
In town five south range three, Joshua Davis entered the E.
i of S. E. i of section 34, containing 80 acres, November 30,
1818.
CITY OF PINCKNEYVILLE.
The history of the survey and plat of Pinckneyville may
be found in the chapter of Civil History of the county. At
the first sale of lots, on the fourth Monday of February we
find the following sales :
338
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Charles C. Glover, No. 21, ... . J22.0O Eli Short, No. 42 J13.U0
Amos Anderson, No. 20 8.00 David H. Meail, No. 10 10.00
Amos Anderson, No. 22 10.00 James Murphy, No. 18 10.25
Amos Anderson, No. 23 0.00 William H. Tlirelkol,No. 30 . . . 15.50
Joseph Wells, No. 38 32.,50 John Hnggins, No. 4.0 13.00
Wm. Brown 4 Jas. Crain,No. 43 . 20.60 DavidPyle, Nol7 8.OC14
No. 44 . . IC.OO Elijah Wells, No. 31 20 00
fiabriel Jones, No. in 12.50^ Robert Caldwell, No. 30 20.00
William Garner, No. 28 22.1214 Berry Anderson, No. 15 D.OO
William C. Murphy, No. 37 . . . 26.00 William Johnson, No. 14 5.00
Matthew Vann, No 39 17..W Mavid Baldridge, Nos. 26, 27, 33 . 37.47
There were twenty-four lots sold, and one thousand two
hundred and twenty-three dollars and twenty-eight and one-
half cents realized from the sale.
The first dry goods store in this city was kept by Charles
Glover in 1827. His storeroom was a small log building
which occupied the lot where Jacob Kunz's blacksmith shop
now stands on the north side of the public square.
As most of the historical facts connected with the city are
given in the foregoing pages of the precinct history we will
not repeat them here.
No organization was ever had until March 17, 1857, when
an election was held at the court house for the purpose of
voting upon the question of incorporation. Lewis Hammack
was chosen president of the election and William McEwing
clerk. The vote was almost unanimous in favor of incor-
poration, there being thirty-nine votes in favor and only
two opposed. On the twenty-sixth of the same month an
election was held, and John Baird, J. L. Mann, S. M. Carter,
Philip Gruner and A. D. Gosney were elected trustees. On
the 30th of September, 1872, an election was held as to the
adoption of the general law, and was carried by a vote of
thirty-four in favor to sixteen opposed.
The first steam mill in the town as well as the county,
was built during the years 1854 to 1856. It was erected by
a corporation known as the Pinckneyville Mill Company, at
a cost of $20,000. The company was organized on the 22d
day of September, 1854, and John Baird as President,
Humphrey B. Jones as Secretary, Hawkins S. Osburn, Joel
Rushing and Fergus M. Milligan were the first trustees. A
three story brick building, sixty by forty feet, with a stone
basement, was erected nearly north of the present public
school building. The capital stock was $15,000 divided into
three hundred shares. A good steam engine furnished the
motive power, while a saw and three run of burrs, with a
capacity of fifty barrels a day, comprised the machinery.
The mill never paid its owners, and was totally destroyed
by fire in 18G0.
Besides the handsome and substantial county building,
there are numerous large and commodious brick business
houses, almost surrounding the public square ; and many
handsome and costly private residences in the town. The
education of the children is well cared for in a handsome
two-story six-room brick building. Five churches care for
the moral and spiritual welfare of the community. The
Methodist Episcopal, Baptist, Lutheran and Roman Catholic
congregations have handsome brick church edifices, while
that of the German Methodists is a neat frame. The streets
of the village are wide, and the sidewalks are kept in good
repair. The street surrounding the public square has just
been well macadamized at a heavy expense ; and many feet
of tile sewering is now being laid. The railroad facilities
of the town are of the most beneficial character, as the Cairo
Short Line Railroad enters the precinct at the northwest
corner, passing across it, and through the village in a dia-
gonal direction, and passes out at the southeast corner. The
Chester and Tamaroa railroad passes through Pinckneyville
and across the entire precinct from southwest to northeast;
while the St. Louis Coal Railroad has its northern terminus
at Pinckneyville, connecting it with Murphysboro. Few
towns are more favorably situated for manufacturing, as a
supply of water, coal and timber are found in abundance.
PRESENT BUSINESS.
Pinckneyville Coal Mining Company. — The certificate of
incorporation of this company is dated October 7th, 1874,
and names S. J. Gillis, Alansou Edwards, and M. C.
Edwards, as commissioners, to open subscription books.
The company was to exist for ninety-nine years, and have
its office at Pinckneyville. The capital stock was $15,000,
divided into one hundred and fifty shares. The share-
holders were John R Jones, who held twenty-seven shares ;
Alanson Edwards, six shares; S. J. Gillis, twenty five
shares ; B. W. Jones, five shares, and George W. Gillis
eighty-seven shares. At an election for Directors, held
October 1st, 1874, John R. Jones was elected for one year,
Alanson Edwards, two years, and S. J. Gillis for three
years. The following spring a shaft was sunk, and a five
and one-half foot vein of good coal reached, at a depth of
thirty feet. The works are operated by steam, and employ
twenty men, who dig from four to five car-loads daily. The
mines now belong to Hon. William K. Murphy, and are
operated by Barwell & Carter.
Ploio Factory. — This industry was established in 1868, by
Enoch C. Eaton. The building is a onestory frame, one
hundred and thirty by forty feet. Four forges are in con-
stant use. The motive power is furnished by a twenty-four
horse power engine. The establishment employs ten hands
in the manufacturing of Eaton's sulky and walking plows,
which have an extensive sale. Other agricultural imple-
ments are also manufactured. About ten thousand dollars
are invested in the business.
City Flouring Milk.— These mills were built in 1871, by
John H. Schulze & Sou, at a cost of twenty-six thousand
dollars. The building is a three-story brick, seventy -five by
forty-five feet, with a brick engine room; in which there is
a sixty horse-power engine. The mill is furnished with
four run of burrs, and many of the late improvements.
Thecapacityof the mill is one hundred and twenty-five barrels^
much of which find a ready market in New Orleans and
St. Louis. Ten men find employment in the mill, and
seven in the cooper shop. The present owners and opera-
tors are Nolle, Standing & Co. This firm ships about one
hundred thousand bushels of wheat annually.
" 0. K." M/Z.— Henry Bohn built this mill in 1874, at
a cost of eight thousand dollars. It is now owned by
Sawyer & McCracken, of Nashville, and operated by A.
Duckworth, manager. The building is a frame, forty by
thirty feet, three stories high, with a warehouse, twelve feet
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
339
wide, the entire length of the building. The machinery is
moved by an engine of sixty-horse power. There are three
setts of burrs in the mill, whose capacity is seventy-five
barrels a day. The business is principally custom. Four
hands are employed in the mill. There is a cooper shop
attached, in whioh three hands are employed. About
eighty thousand bushels of wheat are shipped annually.
Fallon Mills.— The owner and present proprietor, Robert
V. Fallou, erected this mill in 1874, at a cost of §5,000.
The building is a two-story frame, forty by twenty-four feet,
with a wing twenty four feet square. It is supplied with a
thirty-horse power engine, a wheat, a corn, and a middling
burr. Its ca])acity is thirty-five barrels. This is a strictly
custom mill. A saw-mill is also attached. Four men find
employment in this establishment.
Banking Home of Murphy, Wall & Co. — Friend Smith
and Robert Rushing, cashiers.
General Store-f. — G. R. Hincke & Bro., Lewis Weingarlh,
C. H. Gieser &Co., J. P. Cowens, Henry Driemeyer, J. W.
Bischof & Bros., O. S. Butler.
DniggiisU. — Campbell & McNeil, Prudence E. Smith.
Grocers. — W. R. Schember, R. H. Eaton.
Confectionery and Restaurant. — J G. Hepp, R. H. Eaton,
Alexander McCants, Edward Smidt.
Jeweler. — Charles Geumalley.
Millinery and Fancy Goods. — Wilson & Christian.
Phy-icians. — William L. McCandless, George S. Smith,
R. S. Peyton, Guy Morrison, Thomas Holman.
Insurance. — Mortimer C. Edwards & Bro, Ralph G. Wil-
liams. Hardware. — Jacob M. Kunz.
House Furnishing and linner. — Philip Gruner.
Boots and Shoes. — Fred. Beck.
Saddler and Harness Maker. — Charles A. Hoffman.
BlacLvniths and Wagon Makers. — Slimpert & JIcDonald,
Driemeyer & Schoch, J. M. Kunz.
Real Estate. — Kane & Bischof
Clothing and Notions. — A. Haas, Joel M. Sullivan.
Merchant Tailors. — Lutz k Brey.
Sewing Machines. — Fred. Beck.
Furniture and Undertakers.^-Kohert (i. Thompson, .Vdam
YuDg.
Books. — Robert Q. Thompson.
Grain Dealers. — J. L. Murphy, Lewis Yung.
Lmmbcr and Bnildrrs' Material. — Wangelin & Co.
Carpenters and Contraclor.i. — W iWia.m G. Wilson, Adam
Gieser & Son, Joseph Schilling, Martin Schneider.
Butchers. — Henry Kaiser, Henry Mcehlhauscn.
Shoemnkcr. — William Dunn.
Brick Mason. — John Gruver.
Stonemasons. — Herman Mueske.
Milliners and Dressmakers. — Miss Sophia Schrader, Miss
Lena Hoffman.
I>re.%smaker . — Mrs. Wallace.
Barbers. — Charles Geumalley, E<lward C. Hayes.
Cigar Manufactory and Tohacconi.it. — William Klotz.
Agricultural Implement.^. — Kane, Son & Bischof, John J
Bischof. Livery Stable. — Peter Lee.
Hotels. — Sullivan House, Joel M. Sullivan ; City Hotel,
Joseph Bischof; Broadway House, Alexander Grosney ;
Rule House, Mrs. Belle Osborn.
Po.itmastcr. — Robert Q. Thompson.
Saloons. — Frederick Miieller, Joseph Bischof, John J.
Bischof, Isodore Bout, N. E. Orton, Charles Eisfelder.
Lime, Cement and Builders' Material.— Jjewis Yung.
Beaucoup Lodge, No. 159, /. 0. 0. F.— This Lodge wa-s
instituted by B. J. F. Hanna, special deputy, assisted by
Brothers Gorsuch, of Sparta, and C. Was^el and W. C. Jones
of Chester September 20th, 1854. James G. N.Anderson,
David W. Sanders, Wilson McQuaid, Samuel Eaton and J.
M. Montague were the charter members. J. G. X. Ander-
son, N. G., E. J. Dickerson, V. G. and Samuel Eaton
secretary, were the first officers. During the war the lodge
ceased to exist, but was re chartered December 15, 18t).).
The present officers are William E. Gladson, N. G. ; George
Clark, V. G. ; James W. Trover, recording .-secretary ; Henry
Schroeder, permanent secretary, and John Burke, treasurer,
are the present officers. The present membership numbers
thirty-five. The financial condition is good. The lodge
meets every Wednesday night in their hall in J. L. Mur-
phy's building.
Mitchell Lodge No 85, A. F. and A. J/.— The lodge was
chartered October 8, A. L. 5850, with W. C. Hofi", E. R.
Roe, J. T. Linsey and James Keyes as charter members.
The present membership numbers forty-seven.
Beaucoup J/iHtv. — This town is situated one mile north-
west of Pinckneyville, on the Cairo Short Line railroad. It
was laid out by the Beaucoup coal company, George W.
Wall president and William K. Murphy secretary, and was
surveyed and platted by D. L. Benson, deputy county sur-
veyor, March 17, 1873. It is located on the northwest
quarter of the southwest quarter of section fourteen ; and I he
northeast quarter of the southeast quarter of section fifteen,
and in town five, south range three. The only business
enterprise at this place is the
Beaucoup Coal Mining Company.— Tlw company was
organized August 12 1870, for a period of thirty years. Its
operations were to be confined to mining and selling coal
and making and selling coke. The capital stock was
S20,(lOO, divided into two hundred .<hares. The original
directors and stockholders were Edward F. Leonard, Wil-
liam G. Broughton, George W. Wall, William K lyiurphy.
and George W. Parker. In 1872 a shaft was sunk to a
depth of one hundred and eighty feet, when a vein of coal six
feet thick was reached. Forty men are now employed at these
works, which are operated by steam, and have a capacity
varying from five to eight ears daily. As many as forty
cars have been taken in one day. The present owners and
operators are Donk Bros & Co.
Holt's Prairie P 0. — This post oflicc is four and one-half
miles east of Pinckneyville in Pinckneyville township.
Postmaster and General Store — J. H. Harris.
Four Mile P 0. (formerly Penny ville) — This post office
is situated in Four Mile prairie, and is five miles south of
Pinckneyville.
Poslmasttr.W . J. M. Elliott.
Physician. — H. P. Huntsinger.
BIOGRAPHIES
uQ^duA^ r^ o(sL4A\SUA^ /W, /^ o^
:z--)--^-<2<z^.
Edwin Hogan Lemen, eldest child and son of Isaac and
Caroline nee Hogan, Lemen, was born near Collinsville, Mad-
ison count)'. 111., Nov. 9, 1644. The earliest history extant
of Mr. Lemen's paternal ancestry gives the family of Swiss
origin. In the fourteenth century, when the tyranny of the
Austrian conquerors had desolated Switzerland, the family
migrated to Russia, and at a later period some of them be-
came soldiers in the European armies in the wars of the
Continental powers with England, and after their campaigns
through England and Scotland finally settled in the latter
country.
In the seventeenth century, during Cromwell's reign, the
family emigrated from Scotland to the north of Ireland, and
in the early part of the eighteenth century three of their
family, brothers, came to America and settled in Virginia,
where they married and reared families. Nicholas Lemen,
a son of one of these, was the father of James Lemen, the
founder of the family in Illinois. James Lemen was born
in Berkeley county, Va., November 20, 1760, and was a sol-
dier in the war of Independence, being present at the sur-
340
render of the allies at Yorktown. He married Catharine
Ogle in 1782, and settled in Monroe county. 111., in 1786,
where they reared a large family. Their first child and
son, Robert, was born in Berkeley county, Va., September
25, 1783, before they removed to Illinois.
Robert Lemen married Hester Tolin in Monroe county in
1805, and they settled in Ridge Prairie, St. Clair county,
111 , where they reared a large family and accumulated a
good competence in a home and fine farm. He was a leader
in the early times of Illinois, being United States marshal
for the State under John Quincy Adams. In religion Rob-
ert Lemen and his wife were of the Baptist faith, as were
also his father and mother. They lived to a good old age,
but have long since passed to that rest which awaits the
faithful Christian, and now sleep side by side in the ceme-
tery of Bethel Church in St. Clair county, which church
they aided to organize nearly three quarters of a century
ago.
Among the large family reared by Robert and Hester
Lemen was Isaac Lemen, the father of the subject of this
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
341
sketch. Isaac Lemen was boru at the old homestead in St.
Clair county, February 2, 1815. He grew to manhood
under the parental roof and care, and married Caroline E.
Hogan, January 19, 184o. His wife was born November
2, 1821, at the homestead of her parents, Patrick and Nancy
Ann Hogan, in Ridge Prairie, St. Clair county, III. Her
maternal grandparents were the Rev. John Simpson and
Nancy Ann, noe Ryder, both of English birth, the family
of the latter belonging to the nobility of England Rev.
John Simpson was born near London, England, was a Bap-
tist of learning, eminent piety and usefulness, and with his
wife emigrated to America in 1780 and settled in Kentucky.
At a somewhat later period they moved to Monroe county,
III., and were among the early pioneer settlers of that State.
Among their children were Gideon and Nancy. Gideon
Simpson became a Baptist minister, and Nancy, after her
first marriage to John Best, who died after an issue of two
children, married Patrick Hogan ; there were issue of the
last marriage, but only one of the family is now living —
Caroline E Lemen. As issue of the marriage of the latter
to Isaac Lemen the subject of this sketch, Edwin H. and
Frederick, Clara, Oscar, and Lillie are yet living, two chil-
dren having died in infancy. The father, Isaac Lemen, was
a man of good practical information, and highly esteemed
for his excellent qualities as a neighbor and citizen. He
was a successful farmer, and purchased and paid for the
large fine farm, the old homestead of his parents, in Ridge
Prairie, St. Clair county, and placed substantial improve-
ments upon it. He died at his home January .'>1, 1874,
aged ■'JO years. His widow and two children are yet resid-
ing at the homestead.
Edwin H. Lemen was reared to the occupation of farm-
ing. He had received a liberal common school education
while quite young, and having received a certificate, he
taught school very acceptably at eighteen years of age. He
afterwards attended school at Shurtleft' College, and subse-
quently attended the course at the law department of Mich-
igan University, at Ann Arbor, and received his diploma.
Having thus thoroughly prepared himself for the practice
of the law, he received his liceii.se and was admitted to the
Illinois bar in 1868. He located in Pinckueyville, and for
some two years in connection with his first practice of the
law his time was partially occupied in school teaching and
journalism. On September 24, 1871, at Bethel Baptist
Church, the Rev. Dr. Post officiating, Mr Lemen was
united in marriage with the companion of his early child-
hood, and youthful schoolmate, Miss Cynthia Cornelia Be-
gole, youngest daughter and child of Joshua and Marv
Begole, of Ridge Prairie, St. Clair county. As a result of
this union there were two children ; the first, Maud Parepa,
was born March 2, 187.5, and is now an intelligent and
charming little girl ; the second child, a son, born December
15, 1876, and died in infancy. Mr. Lemen and his wife
purchased themselves a good home and farm adjoining
Pinckueyville, a part of which is included in its corporate
limits.
While Mr. Lemen's religion and politics were matters of
deliberate reason and careful choice after the mature judg-
ment of manhood, it so happened in these important matters
there is no conflict between them and those of his ancestors
for a century back. While his ancestors were in religion
Baptists, and in politics Whigs, of the anti-slavery and Re-
publican faith, so also is the subject of this sketch. He
united with the Bethel Baptist Church in St. Clair county,
in the winter of 1871, and uniformly contributes his influ-
ence for the support of his church, though not narrowly
sectarian in his respect for, and confidence in, the other
Christian churches. Mr. Lemen transferred his member-
ship by letter from Bethel Church to the First Baptist
Church at Pinckueyville, in which church he has ever since
been a prominent member and supporter, contributing to
the church as well as to the other religious and eleemosyn-
ary purposes such aid as his means will justify.
In the rational gradation of duty next perhaps to a man's
religion is his humanitarian impulses toward his race. For
the aristocracy of men of shoddy wealth Mr. Lemen has no
veneration ; but the toilers of the country, whether in the
department of mental activity or of manual labor, he holds
in perpetual esteem and honor : and with the latter his sym-
pathy is not theoretical, but experimental, as his labors in
every department of farming duty qualified him to respett
toil. The toilers of the age are the men who are bearing
the banners of our civilization upward and onward, and he
respects them. In the application by the government of
the great questions of political economy he favors such ad-
justments as will reduce the burdens of taxation on the
laboring masses, while at the same time protecting them
from the too overpowering competition of the products of
foreign labor-
In politics a Repblican by virtue of inheritance, reason
and right, Mr. Lemen is less a partisan than a patriot. He
would carry forward the principles of his party by making
them conserve the highest public interests ; but the prostitu-
tion of the party to mere individual ends seldom if ever of
any advantage to the public, and often corrupt atid dishon-
orable, he opposes. He favors the complete elimination of
the so-called spoils system from the domain of partisan poli-
tics, and the consequent suppression of that intense and
arrogant pha.se of bossism which permits the perpetuation
of individual power, often weak and frequently venal, at the
expense of the public interest and good. In the acceptance
of ofiice he holds that an intelligent conception of the peo-
ple's rights and interests should be the cardinal idea, and
that cliques and personal ends are not to be conserved thcrc-
b)'. Of the people and for the people, Mr. Lemeu is by no
means oblivious to a consciousness of the compliments im-
jilied when the peojile tender a position ; but for the means
freciuently employed by the craft and intrigue of politicians
to secure preferment and place, he has no sympathy or re-
spect. Being a man of strong convictions and uncompro-
mising views of duty and honesty, as well in politics as in
the business relations of life, he holds that the sanctity of
integrity and honesty should obtain and control in that
sphere as well as in every other calling.
The mere facts and data in biographical history are
readily compiled, and in this case the author trusts that the
]42
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
subject of this sketch with the readers generally will here
fiud tlieai accurately given ; but in delineating those factors
of character, temperament, and mental attributes which so
largely enter in to make men and mankind what they are,
the task is for more delicate and difficult. An unbending
conscience, a resolute will, and a discerning judgment form
a combination which is the augury of success. Possessed of
this triple alliance of subjective forces in a large measure,
the subject of this sketch is pressing to the front ranks of
the legal profession. The possession of those intellectual
forces which make it possible for him to deliver a speech
before a jury or an audience wiih such marked eflect and
impassioned feeling as generally characterize his efforts, has
justly won for him the popular good will and esteem which
such qualities merit. As a writer of merit and force he is
recoo-nized by the journalists throughout the State, and
through this avenue the line to success and distinction is
open to him if he should elect to accept it. Naturally rapid
and forcible in the delivery of thought, Mr. Lenien is of an
impetuous and positive temperament, and though quick to
resent an indignity, he always holds himself open- and
amenable to the convictions of right. Such characteristics
of course will create a few opponents, but hosts of friends ;
and such is Mr. Lemeu's social status. In the practice of
the law he is scrupulously observant of that professional
comity and courtesy due his legal associates, the court, and
■witnesses, and to all whom it is his duty to defend or oppose.
From the proceeds of his practice, with those received from
their form, Mr. Lemen and his family derive a fair compe-
tence and support at their home in the suburbs of Pinck-
neyville, where they now reside.
In addition to our sketch here of Mr. Lemen the author
■will add a brief sketch of his wife. A community is what
its men and women make it, and the aims and ends of his-
tory are not fully conserved unless it reflect in some degree
the antecedents of both. Cynthia Cornelia Begole, twelfth
and youngest child of Joshua and Mary Begole, was born
at the old homestead, in Ridge Prairie, St. Clair county,
Illinois, December 12th, l.s5() The family are of French
origin, emigrating from France toward the close of the
seventeenth century, having, by reason of belonging to the
Huguenots, been expelled from the realm as a result of the
revocation of the celebrated edict of Nantes, about the year
1685, whence they settled in America. About the year
1805, her paternal grandfather removed with his family
from the state of Maryland, and settled in Livingston
county. New York.
Joshua Begole, her father, was born in Washington
county, Maryland, March 25th, 1792. In the spring of
1819, prompted no doubt by that spirit of adventure so
characteristic of the young man of perseverance and enter-
prise, Mr. Begole, after many trials and adventures, cal-
culated to overcome a less determined spirit, came to St.
Clair county. Ills., via Detroit, Cincinnati and St. Louis,
rich in nothing, save a vigorous manhood, industrious dis
position and a will to win his own way in life. On March
2nd, 1824, he was united in marriage, by the Rev. John M.
Peck, to Mary Terry, the daughter of George Terry and
Sallie, nee Linton, natives of Virginia who had removed and
settled in the American Bottom. The mother of the subject
of this sketch, was born May 15th, 1808, and at the age of
three years, her father having died and her mother remar-
ried, the family removed to Ridge Prairie, where Miss Terry
resided at the time of their marriage
In 1820 they began the battle of life in earnest, by the
purchase of a home of 80 acres of land, in Ridge Prairie,
near the present site of O'Fallon, St. Clair county. Ills., to
which, by industry and economy, they added several hun-
dred acres of the best and most valuable lands in that farm-
ing district, as the result of their united labor and effort.
Mr. Begole was a leading citizen ; for many years a justice of
the peace, his good judgment, practical common sense and
unswerving predisposition to the right inspiring his fellow
citizens with the utmost confidence in him as an officer and
man. In 18.j7 he purchased the large farm, two miles south-
east of Collinsville, to which he removed and where he re-
sided until his death, which transpired March 2nd, 1874—
fifty years to a day from date of his marriage, at the ripe
old age of 82 years, beloved and respected by all who knew
him, his last resting place being the cemetery adjoining the
Bethel church, where his membenship had been placed near
a half century before. His life having been that of the con-
sistent devoted Christian, his rest is that of the saint. He
united with the Bethel Baptist Church, August the 4th,
1827, his wife united with the Church, Oct. 6th, 1827, and
with a liberal hand and sincere purpose, trusting in the
blessed promises of Heaven for their reward, for well nigh
fifty years, they sought to keep the way of life together!
His amiable companion who still survives him, resides with
her son at the old homestead. The issue of the marriage
was twelve children, four of whom are dead, the others ex-
cept Mrs. Lemen, reside in St. Clair county in this state,
most estimable and well-to-do citizens.
Mrs. Lemen's childhood was at the old home, being about
seven years old when the family removed to their place
near Collinsville. Here she passed her girlhood days and
entered the years of womanhood. Her opportunities and
advantages for intellectual culture, training and refinement
were neither wanting nor neglected. With a naturally vig-
orous mind, having made the best use of these advantages
at the schools at home, she visited New York and there
underwent a thorough training in the schools of music ;
bringing back to her home the honors of her classes, which
merit, and not favoritism had conferred.
At the early age of thirteen years, she embraced religion,
was baptized by the Rev. D. P. French, and united with the
Bethel Baptist church in St. Clair county. Here she re-
mained a member until her membership with that of her
husband was transferred to the Fist Baptist church at Pinck-
neyville, where her efforts and influence are devoted to the
interests of the church, being an active laborer in the Sab-
bath-school and in other church work. At home Mrs.
Lemen is truly the good wife the comfort and happiness of
husband and child, being her joy and ambition, and the
pride of her every day life. In society she counts her
friends by scores. The standard by which she selects her
342A
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS. -.'M
daily associates, friends and companions being merit, rather
than the caste, which position or fortune may create, with-
out regard to those nobler attributes, which beautify the
heart and soul.
JAMES J. PENNY.
The present editor and publisher of the Democrat is a
native of Benton Franklin county, Illinois, and was born No-
vember 2, IS'iG. He is the youngest son of J. A. and Mar-
tha A. (Patton I Penny. His parents were natives of Middle
Tennessee and immigrated to Illinois about 1845 and settled
in Franklin county, where the father died in 1S.")6. His
wife and mother of James J. still survives him, and is a resi-
dent of Benton. The subject of this sketch received a good
English eJucatirn in the public schools of his native county.
While yet young he entered as an apprentice in the office of
the Johnson County Journal at Vienna and learned the
printer's trade, and subsequently became the publisher and
continued its publication for eighteen months, after which he
worked in the Union office in Anna, Illinois. In 1S77 he
went to Cairo and was foreman in the lUdletin and Anjns
offices at difterent times and continued there until Novem-
ber, ISSl, when he came to Pinckneyville and purchased
the office of the Perry County Democrat, and has edited and
conducted its publication to the present. Mr. Penny is a
practical printer of industrious habits and plenty of energy,
and it will be no fault of his if he fails to give the people of
Perry county a good live newspaper. He was reared a
Democrat and votes that ticket. On the 4th of July, 1882,
he was united in marriage to Miss Bertha A., daughter of
Joseph M. and Mary (Ba.xter) Sullivan, of Pinckneyville.
Mrs. Penny is a member of the M. E. Church.
J. K. P. RAGLAN I).
Til 1-; subject of this sketch is on the maternal side descended
from one of the pioneer families of Illinois. The Raglands
on the paternal side are of Scotch ancestry. Members of
the family originally settled in South Carolina, and during
the Revolution fought on the side of the patriots. Benjamin
Ivagland, the grandfather, came to Kentucky soon after the
State was admitted to the Union. John B. Ragland, his
son, and fethcr of J. K. P was born in Allen county, Ky.,
August 27, l.H2y. He came to Illinois in 1S32, and lived
the first six months of his residence here in a Sugar Camp
on Rushing branch in Grand Cote prairie, and then settled
on a place now owned by Robert C. Rushing, and there fol-
lowed farming until the Mexican war, when he enlisted
in Co. K of the 2d Regt. Ills. Vols. He took part with his
command in the desperate battle of Bucna Vista, and was
wounded in the engagement, which wound finally caused his
death July 5th, iHii'.i. He married Miss Martha J. Huggins
October 23, 1844. She was a daughter of John Huggins,
Sr., a resident yet of Lost Prairie and a native of South
Carolina. He came to what is now Perry county in 1802,
and is the oldest settler in the county, and if we mistake not
the oldestsettlerlivingiu Illinois. The Huggins werefrom the
Abbeyville District in South Carolina. Robert Huggins
the grandfather of Mrs. Ragland came to Illinois in 1802
and stopped at Menard Springs opposite Kaskaskia in Ran-
dolph county. He married Catharine Lively, sister of John
Lively, who together with his family were murdered by the
Indians at a settlement on Crooked creek north of Nashville
in Washington county, Illinois.
The union of John B. and Martha Ragland was blessed
with but one child — the subject of this sketch. He was born
on Lost Prairie, Perry county, Illinois, December 27, 1^(4.5.
He was educated in the public schools of Perry county.
At the age of twenty-one he commenced the study of law in
the office of Messrs. Youngblood & Barr, attorneys of Ben-
ton, Franklin county, Illinois, and also attended the law
school in same place, under the management of Judge A. D.
Duff, and was admitted to the bar in 18(j!(. In l'<71 he
moved to Pinckneyville and commenced to practice. In
June 1X73 he was appointed one of the Justices of the
Peace of the County Court. In November of the same year
he was elected to the same position, and in 18'S1 was re-elect-
ed and is now holding that position Politically he has
uuiformly voted the Democratic ticket. He is a member of
the Baptist church, and regularly ordained as a minister in
that Christian organization.
WILLIAM E. GLADSON
W.\s born in Sullivan county, Tennessee, January 25, 1849.
His father was a native of North Carolina, and moved to
Tennessee, where he remained until l''<54, when he came to
Illinois, and settled in Perry county, where he at pre_-ent re-
sides. He learned the carpenter trade, and followed that and
farming. He married Mary J. Doggette, whose mother was
of English birth, and of the name of Brimmer. She was bora
in Fredericksburg, Virginia. By the marriage of W. L. and
Mary J. Gladsou, there were seven children, four sons and
three daughters, and three sons and one daughter are yet
living. The subject of this sketch is the eldest of the chil-
dren. He was but five years of age when his parents came
to the State. Here in Perry county he was reared, and re-
ceived a good English education in the public schools of
Pinckneyville and surrounding country. He learned the
trade of cari)eiiter, and worked at that, and later engaged in
farming, which has been his priiKii)al avocation for a num-
ber of years. On the 1st of January, 1878, he was appointed,
by the Board of County Commissioners, Superintendent of
the Poor Farm, and reappointed each year afterward, and
is now serving his fifth year in that capacity. He is a care-
ful and competent man for that position, and has been com-
plementeil by F. H. Wiues,Sec'y of the State Board of Pub-
lic Charities, for the excellent manner in which he conducts
his business and on his reports. On the iUh of October, 1871,
he was united in marriage to Miss Mary, daughter of Wil-
liam and Margaret Owens. She was born in Kilmarnock,
on the Frith of Forth, Scotland. By that union there are
four children living, whose names are Robert Lindsey, Geo.
Andrew, Arthur William, and Sarah Ethel Gladson. Politi-
cally, Jlr. Gladson is a Democrat. He is a member of the
I. O. O. F., and at the present time is N. G. of Beaucoup
Lodge No. 159.
344
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
'^'kr '^/'^^^^y<f<k^
The Murphy family of Perry County are of Irish extrac-
tion, the ancestors of whom emigrated to America, prior to
the Kevolutionary war. John Murphy the grandfather was
a native of the North of Ireland and was a soldier of the
revolution and fought on the side of the patriots at Kings
Mountain and in other battles in the South. Soon after the
war he removed to Tennessee and in 1818 came to Illinois
and settled on the edge of Lost Prairie, in Perry county.
There he remained until his death. He was a stone mason
by trade but also engaged in tilling the soil. He married
in North Carolina and was the father of five s )n3 and five
daughters. Of those sous, was Richard G., father of William
K. Murphy. William C. another son was a prominent man
in the early history of Illinois. He was for many years
door-keeper in the State Senate and House while the capital
was at Vandalia, and after it was removed to Springfield,
upon the organization of Perry county in 1827, he was
appointed Sheriff and held that and other county offices for
a number of years. His name was honored and kept in
memory by the naming of Murphysboro, the couuty seat of
Jackson county.
Richard G. Murphy was born in Smith couuty, Tennessee,
January 4th, 1801, and was the youngest of the family, and
but a youth of seventeen years when the family came to
Illinois. Here in Perry county he grew to manhood and
became a conspicuous and prominent man in southern Illi-
nois. In 1831-32, during the Black Hawk war, both he
and his brother, William C, volunteered and were present
at the battle of " Bad Axe" where the latter was severly
wounded.
In 1832 Richard J. was a candidate for the Legislature,
aud was opposed by the late Judge Breese. He was elected
and served ten consecutive yiars in that body. In 1847
during Polk's administration, Mr. Murphy was appointed
agent for the Sioux Indians, who were upon their reserva.
tion in Minnesota. He repaired there in 1847 and entered
upon his duties. In 18.50 he was again elected to the Illi-
nois legislature and at that st-ssion was made chairman of
the committee on railroads which incorporated the Illinois
Central railroad. He moved his family to Minnesota in
1854 and there made his home until his death, which
occurred in 1874. He was president of the first senate of
Minnesota, the same year the state was admitted to the
Union. Mr. Murphy, being an earnest friend and supporter of
Stephen A. Douglas, thereby incurred the displeasure of the
administration of James Buchanan and was removed from
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
345
his agency on account of political differences. During the
remainder of his life he devoted himself to farming, stock-
raising and developing the country.
In 1834 he married Miss Sarah, daughter of Joseph and
Mary (Kinney) Lemen. She was a niece of Governor Kin-
ney of Belleville, Illinois. She died October 28th, 1846.
He subsequently married Mrs. Nancy Wier nee Glore, who
was a native of Kentucky, but at the time of her marriage a
resident of Randolph county, Illinoi.«. By the first marriage
there were five children whose names are, Mary, wife of
Richard A. Huntsman, Joseph L., Benton P., George W-
and the subject of this sketch.
William Kinney Murphy was born in Perry county, Illi-
nois, July 20th, 18.'i5. He was reared upon the farm, and
like farmers' boys of forty years ago, enjoyed but few oppor-
tunities of receiving an education. He attended the sub.
scription schools of his neighborhood, received private
instruction and was for a short time under the tutelage of
B. G. Roots, a veteran educator of Perry county. That was
the sum total of his educational training. But from these
facts it must not be inferred that he is without education,
but instead of receiving it in schools, it has been mainly
attained by self-culture. Being gifted with a strong
natural mind and possessed of a good retentive memory and
perceptive faculties of a high order, he has been able to sup-
ply the lack of educational training. He remained on the
farm until ISoSI, when he concluded wisely, to adopt the
profession of law as the business of his life. With that idea
in view he entered the law office of William H. McKee, a
brilliant young attorney of Pinckney ville, now deceased, and
commenced the study. He made rapid progress in his
studies and at the fall term of the circuit court held in
Pinckneyville in 1859, applied for and received admission
to the bar. He commenced the practice in connection with
his preceptor. The dissolution of the partnership took place
soon after. In 186G he formed a law partnership with Hon.
John Boyd, which continued until 187t), when Thomas Boyd
was admitted to the firm. The firm of Murphy & Boyd
Bros, continued until 1882 when it was dissolved by mutual
consent. Mr. Murphy was appointed Master in Chancery,
and held that office until 1868, when increasing business
compelled his resignation. Soon after the breaking out of
the late war Mr. Murphy assisted in raising a company of
men for the service. When the company was organized he
was elected captain. It was known as company H of the
110th Regiment of Illinois, Volunteer Infantry. The date
of muster in, was August 15th, 1862. Captain Murphy
remained in the service until April, 186-'\ when continued
ill health compelled his resignation. He returned home and
resumed his practice. It would perhaps be proper to say
that Mr. Murphy has been the most successful resident
lawyer of Perry county. In the years gone by the firm of
which he was the head enjoyed a wide reputation as sound
and able lawyers, and built up a practice which in extent
and volume was second to none in southern Illinois. The
records of the court show, that for many years they were
retained as counsel on one side or the other of every impor-
tant case tried in the courts of this and surrounding counties.
44
We say this in no boastful spirit but merely to show what
may be accomplished by a boy or man, who has the right
kind ofstuffinhim,and courage and energy to acquire a name
and reputation for himself no matter what his surroundings
may be.
Politically Mr. Murphy comes from an old Democratic
family, and from them we have no doubt imbibed more or
less of his political ideas. Education has much to do in
forming our opinions and to some extent gives the bent and
shape to them in after years. His first presidential vote was
cast in 1856. In 1860 he voted for Douglas, and in all sub-
sequent general elections voted the Democratic ticket. He
has been frequently honored by his fellow citizens with
positions of honor and trust. In 1864 he was elected a
member of the 24th, and in 1866 of the 25th General Assem-
by of the state for the district comprising the counties of
Perry, Randolph and Monroe. In 1«72 he represented the
same district in the State senate, and in the session of 1880-
81 in the lower House. During his term in these bodies he
was a member of the Judiciary, revenues and railroad com-
mittees. He also originated and was the author of several
important bills, which subsequently were enacted and became
laws of the State. His course throughout was marked by
an earnest desire to enact such legislation as would be in the
interests, not only of his constituents but the entire State.
In the exciting campaign of 1882 he became the Democratic
standard bearer in the Twentieth Congressional District,
but was defeated by the present incumbent, by a majority of
only 280 votes in the District, which gave in 1880, two years
prior, a republican majority of 1840 votes. In Perry county
where Mr. Murphy was born and raised, and where people
know him best, he received a majority of 452 votes. The
county in 1880 gave a republican majority of 179. Mr. Mur.
phy's majority indicates a change of 625 votes, or nearly one-
fourth of the entire vote cast in the county. His frequent
elections to the legeslative bodies of the State and the mag-
nificent and highly complimentary vote in this Congressional
District, show the kind and manner of man he is, and attest
in the strongest manner possible, his standing, ability and
worth as a man and citizen.
In November, 1874, he in connection with other capitalists
of Perry county, originated and started the banking house of
Murphy, Wail & Co., in Pinckneyville.
On the 18th of April, 1860, he was united in marriage to
Miss Penina Ozburn, daughter of Hawkins S. and Mahala
(Reese) Ozburn. She was born in Perry county. Her
parents were natives of Tennessee, but came to Illinois at an
early day and settled in Jackson county. Hawkins S. Ozburn
was a captain of a company in the second Illinois Regiment,
in the Mexican war. He was also at one time a member of
the State senate.
Four children have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Murphy,
two of whom are living, whose names are Hawkins O. and
Sarah V. Murphy He is an honored member of the A. F. k
A. M. order, and holds membership with Mitchell Lodge No.
85 of Pinckneyville.
This in brief is an outline sketch of one of Perry county's
native born citizens. That he is one of her successful men
UG
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
will not be doubted. Starting in life poor, with a limited
education, no influential friends to aid him, but alone
backed by indomitable energy, business tact and a determi-
nation to succeed, he has won his way step by step to his
present honorable position. To accomplish what he has,
requires uncea.«ing labor, mental force, rigid economy, and
superior business tact and judgment, all of which are
characteristics of Mr. Murphy. Matters pertaining to
enterprises that liave for their object the material increase
or prosperity of the town or county, find in him a liberal
friend aud one who always gives substantial aid.
HON. JOHN BOYD.
The subject of the following sketch is of Scotch and Eng-
lish ancestry. William Boyd, the great-grand-father of the
present family, was a native of Ireland, and emigrated to
America during the Revolutionary war. He espoused the
cause of the patriots, joined the army under Washington,
and fought for the indepeudence of his adopted country.
After the war closed he married and settled in Georgia,
where his son John, the grand-father of the subject of this
sketch, was born, John Boyd remained in Georgia until
1818, then moved to North Carolinia, from there to Ten-
nessee, and in 1823, came to Illinois, aud stopped in Wash-
ington county for a short time, went to Randolph county,
and settled in Heacock's Prairie, now known as Dutch Hill
Prairie, which is located in the northern part of the county,
and there remained until his death, which occurred about
1837. During the war of 1S12 with Great Britain, he en-
listed aud was in the Southern army, commanded by Gen.
Jackson. His .son William was born in Georgia, in 1806,
and was in his seventeenth year when the family came to
Illinois. He married Isabel Douglass, who was born in
Scotland,but was a resident of Randolph county, Illinois, at
the time of her marriage. Her father, Launcy Lat. Doug-
lass, was a native of Jedboro, Scotland, and emigrated to
America in the year 1830. William Boyd died in 1854.
His wife survived him and died in 1880. By that union
there were eight children, five of whom are yet living.
John Boyd is the eldest of the family. He was born in
Randolph county near the village of Preston, June 30th,
1833. He was raised upon the farm, working during the
summer months and attending the District school in the win-
ter. He learned the carpenter's trade and worked at the
business for four or five years, by which time he became
convinced that there were other avenues open to wealth, or
at least a competency, that promised equally well and more
inviting than the trade of carpenter. In 1860, he came to
Pinckneyville, and commenced the study of law in the oflice
of Lewis Hammack. After two years study he applied for
admission to the bar, which was granted after a thorough
examination as to his qualifications. He commenced the
practice in connection with his preceptor, which partnership
continued for one year, after which he practiced alone until
1866, when the law firm of Murphy & Boyd were formed,
and it continued until the summer of 1882, when it was
dissolved by mutual agreement. The law firm of Murphy
& Boyd was well known, not only in Perry county, but in
Southern Illinois. It took front rank at the bar of Perry
county. The records of the court disclose the fact
that they were retained on one side or the other of nearly,
if not all the important cases tried in the courts of the
county. Mr. Boyd is a careful, pains-taking and studious
lawyer, a good pleader, logical reasoner and considerable of
an advocate. He has confined himself to the legitimate
practice of law.
Politically he has been a life-long Democrat. In 1876,
he was nominated and elected by his party to represent the
District in the Legislature. While a member of that body in
the session of 1877, he was a member of the judiciary and
other important committees, aud earned the reputation of a
careful, able and prudent representative. On the 26th of
January, 1866, he married Mrs. Emeline Osborne, nee
Phelps. She died October 26, of the same year. On the
26th of March, 1868, he was united in marriage to Miss
Mary E. daughter of William G. Brown of Perry county,
Illinois. By the latter marriage there are five children^
whose names in the order of their birth are : Elizabeth I.,
Mary E., William W., Florence and Marrilla Boyd. Mr.
Bovd is a member of the ancient and honorable order of A.
F aud A. M , and a member of Mitchell Lodge, No. 8o,
Pinckneyville, Illinois.
WILLIAM M. BREESE,
The family is of Welsh descent on the paternal side and
English on the maternal. Sidney Breese was a Welsh gen-
tleman who, after some years of service in the royal army,
came to America and settled in New York, in 1756, and
died, leaving one son. This son, Samuel, lived in New
Jersey, and his son, Arthur Breese, was born in that State.
He graduated at Princeton, adopted the law as a profession,
and in 1793 moved into the wilderness of Western New
York, and settled at Whitestown, now in Oneida county.
Here he married Catherine, daughter of Henry Livingston,
of Poughkeepsie, who had served as a major in the Revolu-
tionary army. Sidney Breese, the father of William M.,
was the second sou of this marriage. We copy from his
biographer: '• In 1808 the family having removed to Utica,
Mrs. Breese died, leaving nine children. At twelve years
young Breese was placed in the care of Rev. Jesse Townsend,
a Presbyterian minister near ' Madison Four Corners,' where
he was fitted for college. At fourteen years of age he en-
tered Hamilton College, as freshman. In 1816 he was trans-
ferred to Union College, at whose head was the celebrated
Dr. Nott, entering in the junior year. He graduated in
1818, the youngest of his class, and took the third honor,
George W. Doane, afterwards bishop of New Jersey, the
second, and Alonzo Potter, bishop of Pennsylvania, the first
He had, while yet a boy, a strong personal friend in Elias
Kent Kane, who graduated at Yale College in 1814. The
latter settled in Kaskaskia, in the same year, there opened
a law office, and soon rose to distinction, was Secretary of
the State under Shadrach Bond, and United States' Senator
for nearly twelve years. He wrote to young Breese to come
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
1^47
west. He complied with his request, and oa the 24th of
December, 1818, he reached Kaskaskia. He commenced
reading law in the office of Mr. Kane, and at the same time
assisting him in the business of the office of Secretary of
State. He was a close student and had an able preceptor,
and soon was admitted to practice. He chose Brownsville,
in Jackson county, Illinois, as the place to begin. He
opened an office, and the first terra brought thirty suits. His
first appearance in court and before a jury was such a de-
cided failure that in his chagrin he resolved to abandon the
profession, and was only prevented by the earnest appeals
of Conrad Will, then the most prominent man in the county.
In 1820 he fullowed the State Capital from Kaskaskia to
Vandalia, and there opened an office. In 1821 he returned
to Kaskaskia, and resumed his profession. Soon after he
was appointed postmaster of the town. In 1822 he was ap-
pointed Circuit Attorney, by Governor Bond, and was reap-
pointed by Governor Cole, and held the office for four years,
when he was removed by Governor Edwards. The same
year of his removal President Adams appointed him United
States Attorney for the State of Illinois.
In 1831 he proposed to the Judges of the Supreme Cou.rt
to report all their <lecisions. The result was ' Breese's Ke-
ports,' printed at Kaskaskia, in 18;!1, and which was the
first book printed in Illinois. The printer was Robert
Fleming. In 1832 he volunteered as a private in the Black
Hawk war, and when the battalion met at Beardstown was
elected Major. Theophilus W. Smith, a Justice of the
Supreme Court, was elected Lieutenant Colonel. The latter
resigned, and Major Breese succeeded to the colonelcy of the
battalion. The following year he was leading counsel for
Judge Smith, of the Supreme bench, who had been ini
peached by the House of Representatives for misdemeanors
in office. In 183.5, on the establishment of the Circuit Courts,
Mr. Breese was elected Judge of the Second Circuit. In
1839 the Supreme Court was reorganized, and Jlr. Breese
was appointed to a position on the Supreme bench. In 1842
he resigned to accept the position of United States Senator,
from Illinois, and remained a distinguished member of that
body foi six years. Among the special bills that he intro-
duced and urged their adoption was the report of a grunt of
land to the State, for the construction of a railroad from the
termination of the Illinois and Michigan canal to the
mouth of the Ohio river. This was the original plan of the
Illinois Central. He also made a long and exhaustive re-
port in favor of a grant of land for a railroad from Lake
Michigan to the Pacific Ocean. This was the first public
recognition of the importance of that work. He was, while
in the Senate, chairman of the comniiitee on Public Land.
He favored the annexation of Texas, and was one of the few
Senators who maintained the American title up to the Rus-
sian line 54°, 40', thereby excluding England from any part
of the Pacific coast. Upon his return from the Senate he
retired to his ferm, in Clinton county, and there made his
home until his death. In the fall of 18.50 he was elected
without opposition, to the Legislature, and was made speaker
of 'that body. At this session the Act incorporating the
Illinois Central Railroad Company was passed. In 1855 he
accepted a seat on the Circuit bench, and in 1857, when
Judge Scates resigned, he was elected to the Supreme Court
to fill the vacancy. In regular course he became Chief Jus-
tice. He was re-elected in 1861, and again elected in 1870.
In June, 1878, on his way home to Carlyle, from the Su-
preme Court, at Mt. Vernon, he stopped over at Pinckney-
ville to see his son, William 31., and while here was taken
suddenly ill, and died a few hours later, the date of which
was June 27, 1878. From the resolutions passed by the
Chicago bar, we subjoin the following excerpts : 'For sixty
years he occupied a conspicuous position as a lawyer, states-
man, and jurist, and by his eminent services in professional
and public life, and the sterling integrity which marked his
character inspired universal confidence and respect. In
every position he attained, he was fullj- equal to its respon-
sibilities' * * * * 'In the last twent\- years of his life
he was one of the most learned and accomplished members
of the Supreme bench.'
Much more might be written of Judge Breese's eminent
ability as a jurist and statesman, but we deem the foregoing
sufficient to give our readers an insight to his character,
talents and profound learning.
Judge Breese married Miss Eliza, the second daughter of
William Morrison, of Kaskaskia. She yet survives her
honored husband, and is a resident of Carlyle, Clinton county,
Illinois. Of that union is William M. Breese. He is the
ninth in a family of fourteen children, six of whom are liv-
ing. Samuel Livingston Breese is a captain in the United
States Navy, Henry L. enlisted in the ill-fated expedition to
Nicaragua, under Walker, and died from cholera before the
siege of Grenada. Mary, wife of George C. Hanson, died and
left one child. The others, deceased, died in infancy
and early childhood. William M. was born in Carlyle,
Clinton county, Illinois, April 29, 1839. He received his
primarj- education in the common schools, and at fourteen
years of age went to Rock River Seminary, in Ogle county,
and remained there one term, then entered McKendree Col-
lege at Lebanon, Illinois. One year later he went to the St.
Louis L'niversity, in St Louis, and from that institution
graduated in 18.57. He then spent one year under private
instructions in York, Maine, then returned home and com-
menced the study of law in the office of his father. When
the war broke out he was appointed second lieutenant in the
IGth U. S. Infantry, and subsequently was promoted to the
rank of first lieutenant, commanding a company. He re-
mained in the service until 1864, then resigned. He was in
the battle at Shiloh, Stone River, Chickamauga, siege of At-
lanta, and with Sherman in his "March through Georgia."
After the war he returned home and engaged in farming, in
which he continued until 1870, when he was admitted to the
bar, and commenced practice in Carlyle. In 1872 he went
to Grand Tower, in Jackson county, then to Thebes, in
Alexandria county, and in 1875 came to Pinckneyville and
opened a law office, and here he has remained to the present.
He married Miss Julia, daughter of Hon. Levi L. Leghtner,
of Alexandria Co., Illinois. Had one child by that union
named Rosa Irvin Breese. Politically he has always voted
the Democratic ticket.
348
HISTORY OF RANDOLPB, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
y^^^i<^^><^<>^^t^
Walter Scott Dinsmore Smith, the present county
clerk, who has just entered upon his third term, is a native of
Ohio, born at Beallsville, Monroe county, January 12, 1845.
Samuel Smith, the great-grandfather of Walter, was a
native of Scotland, a Presbyterian clergyman, educated at
the University of Edinburgh. He came to America, settled
in New Jersey, and was for a short time a teacher in the
Theological Seminary at Princeton ; taught a select school
at Rahway, at which place he died leaving a wife in
destitute circumstances, with two small children, one a
daughter, named Mary, who never married, and the other
a son, Samuel B., then a lad of ten years, who was ap-
prenticed to a shoemaker, from whose cruel treatment he
soon ran away and began to buffet the realities of life for
himself. At about twenty years of age, in Bucks county,
Fenn, after a short service in the war of 1812, he married
Martha Siegfried, daughter of George Siegfried, who was
by profession an editor, a descendant of the old and notable
Siegfried family of Germany, and whose sons and grandsons
were nearly all editors and Baptist ministers.
Samuel B. and Martha were the parents of ten children,
all but one of whom are still living though widely scattered.
After the birth of their third child, born March 23, 1817,
and named George Siegfried Smith, they removed to Ohio,
settling in Jefferson and Belmont counties, afterward in
Monroe, where the family grew up in the occupations of
farmine and manufacturing woollen cloths.
George S. adopted the profession of medicine, and was mar-
ried March 3, 1840, to Miss Rachel Garvin, of Scotch-Irish
parentage, born in Ohio county, West Virginia. She was
about a year his junior. Her parents, James Garvin and
Jane, whose maiden name was Scott, a descendant of the
Scottsand Dinsmores, were both born in the north of Ireland,
and had five children. Rachel being the youngest was left
an orphan at an early age. She died in Jackson county,
111., in 186iJ, leaving four children grown to maturity. The
subject of this sketch is the third in the family : the other
members being A. J. Smith, of Du Quoin ; Friend Smith, of
Murphysboro ; and Jennie, wife of L. T. Ross. George S.
Smith, the father, now lives in Finckneyville, having moved
to near Jefferson City, Mo., in 1858, thence to Du Quoin,
111 , in 1862, and to Finckneyville in 1877.
Walter obtained his primary education in the district
school near Newport, Ohio, where he spent the formative
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
349
period of his youth, fortunately surrounded by good in-
fluences. He was quite proficient iu all his studies, and
while the family resided in Missouri, he taught two terms of
school — this was before he was seventeen years old. After
the family came to Illinois, he was engaged in farming,
taught school one winter and attended Shurtleft" college, at
Upper Alton, a little over two years.
In December, 186), having abandoned his college course
on account of ill-health, he was appointed deputy clerk by
L. T. Ross, and continued to serve as such under him and
his successor, Mr. Harriss, until 1873, when as an In-
dependent candidate, he was elected county clerk by a
majority of nearly 850. In 1877, he was re-elected without
opposition, held over under the new law until 1882, when,
for the third time he was elected, his majority being 1803
in a vote of 2989. These frequent elections by increased
majorities show, in the strongest manner possible, the stand-
ing and popularity of Mr. Smith iu Perry county, and are
tributes to his worth as a man, and his ability and faith-
fulness as a county official. Politically, Mr. Smith is a
Republican, but in no wise a partisan.
On the 11th day of Sept-, 1868, he married Jliss Laura
A. Gordon, a native of Pinckneyville, born February 8,
18.")1. She was the youngest daugiiter of James E. Gordon
(deceased), who came here from Kentucky in 1840, and
died in 18.55. Her mother, Lucy A. (now Malone), is the
daughter of William Jones, deceased, and sister of Humph-
rey B. Jones, deceased.
To Mr. and Mrs. Smith have been born six children —
Emma, Elmer G., Arthur C, Harry S., Xi-llie May, and
Percy B. The two before the last named sleep side by side
in the village cemetery.
Both Mr. and Mrs. Smitli are members of the Baptist
church. The former has been a member since the eleventh
year of his age, having been baptized in the Ohio river by
Rev. J. C. Riley. Two "of the children have followed his
example by uniting with the church at an early age.
Of W. S. D. Smith, it may truly be said that, next to his
family he loves his church. Though tolerant of tlie opinions
of others, he is firm in the doctrines of his people and
earnest in the support of the cause. He has for many years
served as Sunday-school superintendent and clerk of the
church, and was years ago granted a license to preach, but
secular engagements have kept him from engaging in the
work of the ministry, except as an occasional supply.
LOUIS M. KANE.
The Kane family are of Scotch-Irish ancestry and the de-
scendants of the old covenanter stock. John Kane, the
grandfather of Louis M., emigrated to America from
Ireland about the time of the Revolutionary war. He was
while a resident of Ireland engaged in shipping. Was a
sailor by profession and captain of a vessel. He settled in
New York city, and there continued the merchant marine
business, and was the owner of several ships that plied be-
tween New York and foreign ports. He was then a man of
large means, but a short time before his death his fortune by
some unlucky ventures was swept away from him. His wife
whom he married in Ireland, died in New York, where both
she and her husband lie buried. There were six children.
The eldest son Searline died while at college. John K.,
rose to prominence as a lawyer and was a judge of the courts
of Philadelphia for many years. He was the father of
Gen. Kane, who distinguished himself during the late war,
and also of Dr. Kane, the famous Artie explorer. There
were three daughters, only one of whom married. Ellas
Kent Kane, the father of Louis M., was the youngest of the
family. He was born in New York in 1781, and educated
at Yale College. After his graduation he studied law, and
practiced for some time in his native state. In 1814 he
came west to the territory of Illinois and settled at Kaskas-
kia, which was then the metropolis of the west. He there
opened a law office and had for his pupils the late Judge
Sidney Breese, Gen. Shields and other men who in after
years became prominent in the state. In 1818 he was ap-
pointed Secretary of State by Governor Bond, and continued
in office until 1824, when he was elected to the senate of the
United States. He proved himself an industrious and able
member of that body and served out his full term with so
much satisfaction to his constituents that he was re-elected
in 1830, without any serious opposition. Before the expira-
tion of his second term his health, which had always been
feeble, gave way, and he died December 11th, 1835. As a
public man Mr. Kane stood among the first of the state.
He left the impress of his genius and talent upon the fun-
damental law of Illinois. It was he who drafted and wrote
the constitution which was adopted, and which notwith-
standing the changes that time has demanded, and its
amendments which have marred its beauty, still challenges
the admiration of statesmen for its matchless purity of dic-
tion, broad statesmanlike principles, liberal construction,
concise though comprehensive provisions and definition of
its powers. It is, indeed, a model of its kind, and without a
peer in the Union. Mr. Kane was held in high estimation
by his party throughout the Union. He was distinguished
for his zeal and firmness as a party man, and exerted a po-
tent influence through hi.'' talents and moral worth, as well
as by the rectitude of his political principles, for the cause of
his party in the west. Yet such was his sense of decorum
and his power of enforcing its obligations on others that he
was scarcely ever reached by the bitterness of party invec-
tive. His political friends loved him — his political enemies
respected him. In 1814 he married Felicita Peltia, a native
of Kaskaskia, born in 1796, and a descendant of an old
French family. She died in the home of her birth in 1852.
There w'ere ten children by that union. Two of them died
in infimcy and four grew to maturity. Maria, the eldest
daughter, married W. ('. Kinney, son of ex-(tovernor Kin-
ney. Elias K., was educated and graduated from West
Point in l'H41. He pa.ssed through the Mexican war under
the command of Gen. Taylor, with distinguished honor to
himself, and rose to the rank of captain at its close. He
was captured with Captain Thornton at the opening of the
war when the first blood was shed, and remained a prisoner
a few weeks when he was exchanged. He was at the siege
of Monterey, and was stationed there during the battle of
350
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Buena Vista. He came up with re-enforcements early on
the moruiug after the battle, having been engaged during
the battle in guarding the pass of Riaconada, to protect
Gen. Taylor's rear. After the war he went in the expedition
from Camargo to Santa Fc. He was then ordered to Cali-
fornia, where he acted as Quartermaster from 1847 to 185-.
He disbursed immense sums of money to the perfect satis-
faction of his superiors at Washington city. It is said of
him, that although he was one of the youngest officers in
the regular array, yet he stood among the highest in every
quality of the man of honor, the soldier and the gentleman.
No man ever possessed more of the confidence of those who
were on terms of intimacy with him. " None knew him but to
love him." Elizabeth, the second daughter of Elias K.
Kane, married William H. Bissell, who was then a practising
attorney of law, in which profession he became eminent.
At the breaking out of the Mexican war he raised a regi-
ment and was commissioned colonel. It was known as the
2d Regiment, and took a conspicuous part in the battle of
Buena Vista, and to it and the Mississippi Rifles belongs the
honor of saving the day and preventing the defeat of Gen.
Taylor's forces. After the war he returned and represented
his District in Congress, and while there was noted for his
aggres-siveness and hostility to the slave power. His phil-
ippics against the institution of slavery were unequaled and
terrible, and called down upon him the wrath and vengeance
of the leaders from the South. But he had faced the cold
polished lance in the hands of the Mexican, and stood un-
daunted on the gory field of Buena Vista, while his com-
rades were falling thick and fast aroiind him, and was made
of too heroic material to quail before the braggadocio of
southern chivalry and their threatened resort to the duello,
to compel his acquiescence to their views and schemes. In
1856 he was nominated by his party and elected Governor
of Illinois, and died much regretted in 1859.
Louis M. Kane, the subject of this sketch, is the youngest of
the children of Elias Kent Kane. He was born in Kaskaskia
May 17th, 1831, and spent his boyhood in the schools of
Kaskaskia and remained there until 1841, when he removed
to Belleville, and from there he went to California in 1851,
and engaged in mining and different vocations until 1S56,
when he returned home to Belleville. In 1857, he was ap-
pointed private secretary to Governor Bissell, and remained
in that capacity for two years. In 1869 he went to
Nashville in Washington county, then back to Belleville,
and in 1879 came to Pinckneyville, and engaged in the
agricultural implement trade in connection with his sons, and
soon after they added livery, feed and sale stables, and here
he has continued to the present. On the 6th of August,
1856, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary, daughter of
Captain William Watson of Belleville. By that union
there have been ten children, eight of whom are living.
Their names in the order of their birth, are Louis McLain,
who is a lawyer and resident of Chicago, Illinois ; Carrie W.,
Charles Delisle, law student in the office of E. H. Lemen ;
William W., Elias Kent, John K., May and Elizabeth Kane.
Louis M., married Miss Ella Kaniff of St. Louis, Mo.
Politically Mr. Kane has always been a staunch and reli-
able Democrat. He is an honored member of A. F. and A.
M., and belongs to Mitchell Lodge No. 85, Pinckneyville,
Illinois.
THOMAS BOYD.
The Boyd family on the paternal side is of Scotch ances-
try, and on the maternal, English. William Boyd, the
great-grandfather of Thomas, was a native of Ireland, and
emigrated to America during the Revolutionary war, es-
poused the cause of the patriots, joined the army under
Washington and fought for the independence of his adopted
country. After the close of the war he married and settled
in Georgia, where his son, John, the grandfather of the
present family, was born in 1818. John Boyd moved to
North Carolina, and from thence to Tennessee, and in 1823
came to Illinois and settled in Washington county, but soon
after removed to Randolph county to a point then known
as Heacock's Prairie, now known as Dutch Hill Prairie, and
there remained until his death, which occurred about 1837.
During the war of 1812 he enlisted and was a soldier under
Jackson in the southern army. His son, John B., father of
Thomas, was born in Georgia in 1800, and came with his father
to Illinois, and here married L«abel Douglass, daughter of
Lance L. Douglass. She was born in Scotland though partially
reared in Illinois. She survived her husband, who died in
1854, and she in 1880. By this union there were eight chil-
dren, five of whom are living. Thomas, the subject of this
sketch, was born in Randolph county, Sept. 6th, 1847; he was
reared upon his father's farm and recieved his education in the
district schools of his neighborhood. At the age of nineteen
he left home and worked at his trade of carpenter; subsequent-
ly taught school, which he continued until 1870, when he en-
tered the law office of Murphey &. Boyd at Pinckneyville
and commenced the study of law; he however continued to
follow teaching in the winter months, returning to his
studies during vacation. At the January term of the Su-
preme Court, held at Springfield in 1875, he passed a suc-
cessful examination and was admitted to the bar; he then
formed a law partnership with his preceptors, and became a
member of the well-known law firm of Murphey & Boyd
Bros., which continued until July, 1882; when John Boyd
withdrew, and Thomas Boyd remained a law partner with
Mr. Murphy until the latter part of November, 1882, when
the dissolution of the firm took place by mutual consent.
As a practitioner Mr. Boyd has reason to be gratified with
his success ; he brought to the profession studious habits,
industry, and an earnest desire to excel ; while comparative-
ly on the threshold of his professional life, he has given un-
doubted evidence of his fitness and ability to cope with the
subtle intricacies of the law, and in good time we opine
he will become eminent and learned in his chosen profession.
Politically Mr. Boyd has always been a reliable Demo-
crat, true to his principles, and without doubt or shadow of
turning. He is an honored member of the A. F. & A. M. and
also of the higher order of R. A. M. On the 13th of March,
1878, he was joined in holy wedlock to Mrs. Sarah J. Hight,7iee
Hughes, daughter of William A. Hughes, of Pulaski county,
Illinois. By that union there have been two children,
named Maud S., who died in her second year, and Loren
H. Boyd.
350A
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, M OX ROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
351
(3^ d^ C^^S^^^^^^
The Anderson family of Pern* county are descended from
the pioneer stock of Illinois. They are of Scotch ancestry.
Members of the family came to America prior to the Kevo-
lutionary war and settled iu Virginia. Amos Anderson, the
grandfather of Richard B., was born in that State and came
west to Kaskaskia in 17'JO. He remained there until 1824,
then moved to Perry county and settled in the eastern part
of Holt's Prairie, and there died about 1844. In his house
wa.s held the first term of court after Perry county was or-
ganized in 1827. During the war of 1812 he volunteered
and was a soldier under General Jackson in the Southern
army. He married in Virginia, by which union there were
seven children, one of whom is living, named John, a resi-
dent of Emporia, Kansas. Of that union was Berry Ander-
son, the father of Richard B. He was born in Kaskaskia
December 27, 1805, and died December 5, 18G7. He fol-
lowed the occupation of a farmer, and was a resident of this
county until his death He was a soldier of the Black
Hawk war, and was an open-hearted generous man, and
gave much to charity. He married Elizabeth Marlow in
1830 She was a native of Perry county, and the daughter
of Richard and Tabiiha Marlow. .'^he died .Tune 11, 1853.
He subsequently married Aletha JIcKlnney. Her maiden
name was Hall, daughter of Alcanac Hall. By the latter
marriage there was one child named John Newton Ander-
son. B)' the first marriage there were nine children, si.^ of
whom are still living. Two of the sons, Andrew J. and
Bartley C. were soldiers in the late war. The first was a
member of Company I, 1st Mo. Regt., and the latter in the
80th Regt. Ills. Vol. The subject of this sketch is the
youngest in the family. He was born in Holt's Prairie,
Ferry county, Illinois, June 9, 185o. He was reared upon
the farm, and received his primary education in the public
schools of the county. After the death of his father he was
placed with his brother in Bond county and remained in his
home one year, after which he hired out to do general farm
work. During the winter months he attended school. When
he reached the age of nineteen he attended the Agricultural
School in Irvington, in Washington county, and in the follow.
ing winter taught school. In the summer he returned to
farm work, and so continued teaching iu the winter and
working in the summer months until 1875, when in the spring
352
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
of that year he entered the National Normal University at
Lebanon, Ohio, with the design of more fully equipping him.
self for teaching, a profession he determined to adopt and
make his life work. He remained in the University two
years, then returned and taught the public schools in Nash-
ville, Washington county, Illinois, then took charge of the
schools at New Mindom in same county, and subsequently
was Principal of the public schools of Tamaroa and Pinckney-
ville in Perry county, and Kinmendy, in Marion county,
Illinois. In 1882 ill health compelled him to abandon
teaching for awhile. In 1882 his ability as a teacher and
zeal in the cause of education was suitably rewarded by
being elected to the position of Superintendent of the schools
of Perry county, and at the present time he is exercising the
duties of the office in a manner creditable alike to himself
and those who honored him with their suffrages. On the
14th of August, 1879, he was united in marriage to Miss
Retta, daughter of A. J. and Sarah Bowman, of Tamaroa,
111. By that union there is one daughter named Elma Vera
Anderson. His wife is a member of the Presbyterian church.
Mr. Anderson holds membership with the Baptist church.
His father and mother were among the first members of that
church in Perry county, and assisted in its organization.
Mr. Anderson isamember ofthe A. F.and A. M.,and belongs
to Tamaroa Lodge No. 207. Politically he uniformly votes
the Republican ticket. School teaching has been his pro-
iession during the greater part of his active life, and it may
be incidentally mentioned that his brother, Harrison M.
Anderson, is also a teacher, and stands in the front rank of
the profession in the State.
LEWIS HAMMACK.
The Hammack family is of English and Scotch ancestry.
The paternal grandfather was named Lewis, and was born
in Virginia, and removed to Tennessee in 1814, and settled
in Warren county, where he died. He was by occupation a
farmer, and a local preacher in the M. E. Church. He
married a lady by the name of Fagins, by which union there
were nine children, who grew to maturity. Of these was
Benjamin, the father of the subject of this sketch. He was
born in Virginia in 1800, and went with the family to Ten-
nessee, where he remained until 1827, when he came north
to Illinois, and settled in Jackson county. Two years later
he removed to Perry county, and settled northwest of Tama-
roa, and there died in 1875. He followed farming. He
married Sarah Hull, of Kentucky. She was the daughter
of Richard and Nancy (Stockdale) Hull. She died in 1877.
By that union there were nine children, all of whom reached
maturity, and five of them yet survive. Lewis is the second
in the family. He was born in Warren county, Tennessee,
June 25, 1825, and was two years old when the family came
north to Illinois. He grew up on the farm, and like most
farmers' boys of an early day in Illinois, received a limited
education in the subscription schools of his neighborhood.
He remained at home until June, 1846, at which time he
volunteered for one year's service in the Mexican war. He
joined Company K of the Second Regiment Illinois Vol-
unteers, under the command of Col. Bissell, subsequently
governor of Illinois. He participated with his command in
the hard- fought battle of Buena Vista, where the American
forces under Gen. Taylor met and defeated five times their
number of the Mexicans under their favorite leader and
general, Santa Anna. After his enlistment expired he re-
turned home and went to school fifteen days, — then taught
school two terms at Pinckneyville. In 1848 he was soli-
cited to run for circuit clerk. He consented, made the race,
and was elected, and served oue full term. In 1852 he was
a candidate for the same position on the prohibition plat-
form, but was defeated by a small majority. When he was
teaching school he got hold of " Chitty on Contracts," which
awakened in him a desire for the profession of law. Dr.
Jones, a warm personal friend of his, encouraged him to
study for the bar, and, without his knowledge, procured his
license to practice, the date of which is Feb. 7th, 1853. He
then went to work in earnest, and studied hard to acquire a
knowledge of the law. The first court held after his admis-
sion he had a few cases, and at every subsequent term they
kept increasing, and he was soon in the possession of a large
docket ; and, in fact, for a number of years, no cases of any
importance were tried in the courts of Perry county in which
he was not retained as counsel on one side or the other. His
specialties are in the line of the Chancery side and real
estate law, and in that class of practice he has few superiors
at the bar.
In 18G1 he was a candidate fur the position of Judge
of this Circuit, and also in 1863, but both times was de-
feated, the last time by only twenty-seven votes. His com-
petitor on that occasion was Judge Mulky, now one of the
Supreme Justices of the State. He has held the ofijce of
Master in Chancery twice, — the first time, while he was cir-
cuit clerk, and the other after he was in the practice. His
practice accumulated to such a degree that he was unable
to give it the attention it required, and therefore resigned.
Mr. Hammack has been married three times. The first time
to Miss Cordelia M. Edwards, April 7th, 1851. She died
May 14th, 1872, leaving three children, named Elizabeth
Jane, who is the wife of Benjamin Wood, now a resident of
Choctaw Nation, in the Indian Territory ; William, and
Charles Lewis, who are residents of Pinckneyville. On the
9th of October, 1876, Mr. Hammack married Miss Emma
J. Bull. She died Nov. 25, 1877, leaving no living issue.
He married his present wife December 7th, 1879. She was
Mrs. Maria Jane Guthrie, nee Rigg, a native of Chester
county, Pennsylvania, and daughter of Alexander and Han-
nah (Maitland) Rigg. His wife is a member ofthe Presby-
terian Church. Politically, Mr. Hammack was originally a
democrat, but was opposed to slavery. In 1866, during the
Kansas-Nebraska troubles, he leaned to the anti-slavery
party, and voted for W. H. Bissell for governor ; and the
whig ticket for Bell and Everett in 1860 ; and for Abraham
Lincoln in 1864 ; and voted for all subsequent Presidents
up to 1880, when he became a convert to the principles and
theories of the Greenback party and voted their ticket. He
is an outspoken and avowed prohibitionist, and believes that
the licensing of saloons is an offense against good morals,
religion, and against the best interests of society.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
353
/^'
't/ .
The Rushing family are the descendants of ICnglish and
Welsh ancestry. The paternal grandfather, Joseph Rush-
ing, was born in Ason county, North Carolina. In 1811 he
moved to Bedford county, Tennessee, and there died. He
married Martha Deason. Both lie buried at the Enos
Meeting House burying ground in Bedford county, Tenn.
There were four sons and eight daughters by that union.
Five of the children are yet living. Of the sons was Joel,
father of Evan B., born in Ason county, N. C, Dec. 20,
1799. He grew to manhood in Tennessee, and married in
1820, and in 1833 came to and stopped for a short time in
Washington county. The same year he purchased the S.
W. quarter of the S. E. quarter of section thirteen and the
N. W. quarter of the N. E. quarter of section twenty-four
in T. 4, R. 4, W. of 3d P. M. in Perry county, improved it,
and there made his home until his death, which occurred
45
July 10, 1878. He was (juite active and prominent in life,
and was one of the county commissioners under whose direc-
tion was built the old part of the present court-house. He
became a member of the Baptist church in 1860. He was
an exemplary and good citizen. In 1820, while a resident
of Tennessee, he married Susanna Ilaile of the same state.
She died Aug. 7, 1843. He afterwards married Sabra Tack-
ett. She died, leaving no children living. He subsequently
married Martha Y. Wells, who yet survives him. By the
latter marriage there is one son, named Robert C Rushing,
clerk in the banking house of Murphey, Wall cS: Co
By the union of Joel and Susanah (Haile) Rushing, there
were eight children, whose name.s are Joseph A., who died
in his fourteenth year, John W., Evan B., Enoch D.,
Amanda, wife of Rev. John C. Wilson, Joel P., Thomas S.
and Martha Ann. The latter died in infancy. Evan B.,
354
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
the subject of this sketch, was born in Bedford county,
Tenn., June 17, 1827. He was raised on the farm, and re-
ceived his education in the common schools of Perry county,
which was farther improved by teaching and self culture.
In 18.5(j he was elected circuit clerk of Perry county, re-
elected in 1860, and served two terms. The position of clerk
made him acquainted with many of the forms of law and a
knowledge of the practice, and by reading the standard
text-books during his leisure time while he was circuit clerk,
he fitted himself to enter the profession of law. He passed
a creditable and successful examination, and was admitted
to the bar in July, 18B8. He commenced ihe practice in
Pinckneyville. He chose the chancery and real estate busi-
ness, and has given that practice the most of his attention
since his admission. In 1868 he was appointed master in
chancery by Hon. M. C Crawford, Judge of this judicial
circuit, and was re-appointed at different times by Judges
Watts, Snyder and Wall, and has held the office with but
slight interregnum ever since. Politically, Mr. Rushing
has been a life-long democrat and a staunch believer in
Democratic principles. In the local government of Pinck-
neyville, he has served the people as President of the Board
of Trustees for three terms, and has been a member of the
board before and since. He was one of the original founders
and promoters of the Perry County Agricultural Society in
18.56, and has been prominently identified and connected
with it since that date. It can truthfully be said of Mr.
Rushing, that he is eminently a business man, and conducts
his business, whether it be of a public or private nature,
upon plain business principles, «hicb, in the end, always
assures and brings success.
On the 20th of March, 1849, he was united in marriage
to Miss Letitia, daughter of Reuben and Elizabeth (Jones)
Kelley, natives of Bedford county, Tenn. She was born in
Perry county. Ills., Feb. 6, 1833, and died Sept. 28, 1864.
By that union there were four children, three of whom are
living. Their names in the order of their birth are Susanna
E., wife of Thomas S. Campbell, Mary A , wife of Frank
M. Roe, Edna L., who died Sept. 15, 1861, and Richard J.
Rushing, who married Miss Lizzie Rohe of Pinckneyville.
On the 3d of Sept., 1878, Mr. Rushing married Mrs. Mar-
garet M., widow of James J Hoye, and daughter of W. C.
Murphey. an old and distinguished settler of Perry county-
Mrs. Rushing was born in Perry county. She has one child
by her former marriage, named Kate Hoye. Mr. Rushing
is a member of the A. F. and A. M order, and belongs to
Mitchell Lodge, No. 85, and Du Quoin Chapter, No. 44.
Capt. R. Q. THOMPSON.
The subject of the following sketch was born in Lawrence
county, Pennsylvania, Aug. 31st, 1836. His father James
G. Thompson was a native of the same State. He came
west in 18.59 and settled in Du Quoin, Perry county, Illinois,
and remained in the county until his death, which occurred
Nov 16, 1879. He was a carpenter and cabinetmaker, and
followed the trade for the greater portion of his life. He
married Miss Polly Hunter, who was born and raised in
Lawrence county. Pa., and there died in 1857. By that
union there were four sons and the same number of daughters.
Robert Q. is the eldest of the family. He received a fair
English education in the common schools of his native
county. When old enough he worked at the trade of car-
pentering and cabinet-making , and subsequently followed
the business of oj)erating and running stationary engines
He came to the west in 1857, and remained a citizen of
Perry county until the breaking out of the late war, when,
with characteristic patriotism and devotion to his country,
in the hour of its peril, enlisted for the term of three years,
the date of which was August 1st, 1861. He became a
member of Co. G of the 12th Regt. Ills. Vols. Ezekiel
and William were also members of the same company. The
former veteranized and remained in the service until the close
of the war. The 12th Regt. was enlisted for the three
months' service, but soon after re-enlisted for three years.
On the 31st of Dec, 1863, while the regiment was stationed
at Pulaski in Tennessee, Mr. Thompson veteranized with his
company, and remained in the service until the close of the
war, and was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., July 4, 1865,
and finally discharged at Springfield, Ills., July 11, 1865,
having been in the service a few days lacking four years.
The r2th Ills, was when first in the service a part of Gen.
Prentiss' division. When the army was organized into corps
it became part of the 16th army corps, under the command
of Gen. Dodge. In the Atlanta Campaign it was part of the
15th army corps, under command of Gen. John A. Logan,
and remained with that corps all through the succeeding
campaigns, including Sherman s memorable march to the sea-
Capt. Thompson passed from a private to sergeancy in his
company, and then to a second lieutenancy. When the regi-
ment veteranized he was elected captain of the company, and
from that time had command of the company until mustered
out of the service. His commission as first lieutenant, dates
April 11, 1865, and his commission as captain, June 12, 186.5.
He was wounded on the 22d of July, 1864, at the siege of
Atlanta, the ball passing through his left shoulder. He
came home and remained there until convalescent, when he
rejoined his command which was then at Rome, Georgia, and
continued with it until mustered out in date above-named.
After the close of the war he came to Pinckneyville and en-
gaged in the cabinet making and furniture business, and still
remains in the same trade. On the 1st January, 1873, he was
appuinted postmaster of Pinckneyville, and has been
continued in that position to the present. On the 7th Sept.,
1865, he was united in marriage to Miss Mary Jane, daughter
of Josiah and Isabel Foster Swafford, of Franklin county.
Ills By that union there were four children, one of whom
is living, a son named James J. Both Mr. and Mrs. Thomp-
son are members of the M. E. Church. He is a member of
I. 0. O. F. Politically he comes from an old whig family,
who, after the disbandment of that party joined the Republi-
can organization. Capt. Thompson cast his first presidential
vote for A. Lincoln, and from that time to the present has
not swerved in his allegiance to the party of his first choice.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
355
o};^
ey^o
The Roe family are of Welsh descent. Daniel Roe, the
grandfather of the present family was born at Oyster Bay,
Long Island, New York, in 1780. His parents were na-
tives of Wales, and emigrated to America some time prior
to the Revolutionary war. Daniel Koe adopted the ministry
as his calling, and was a <lisciple and believer iu the religious
tenets as expounded by Swedenborg, preaching that doc-
trine for many years at Cincinnati, but finally abandoned
it and became a convert to orthodoxy. While yet in his
boyhood his parents removed to Mason county, Kentucky,
and he there remained until I'SO'i, when he went to Ohio
and settled at Lebanon. He afterwards removed to Cincin-
nati, where he engaged in the practice of law, and thence to
Dayton, of which city he laid out a portion while it was in
its infancy. He died there in 1M4'2, at the age of sixty-
three years.
His son, Thomas S., the father of the subject of this
sketch, was born in Cincinnati on the day of ,
1818. The family soon after removed to Dayton, and there
Thomas S, grew to manhood, adopted medicine a,s his pro-
fession, and graduated at the Louisville Medical college, in
1841. He commenced practice in Ohio, and there con-
tinued until 1«48, when he removed to Illinois, and stopped
at Shawneetown. The next year he moved to Mt. Vernon,
and one year later to Nashville, in Washington county, and
there remained until the fall of 1849, when he removed to
Chester, in Randolph county, and finally on February 14th,
18.57, came to Pinckneyville, where he died on October I'ith,
1873. He married Miss Anna Maria Boyer (daughter of
Jacob and Catherine Boyer, who were a family of Pennsyl-
vania Germans from Lancaster county. Pa.), on March 30,
1841. She died March 10, 1871. By that union there
were three sons who reached years of maturity : Robert C,
who was a member of Co. G, 12th 111. Inft., and was killed
at the battle of Fort Donelson on Feb. 14, 18ri2 ; Frank M.
the youngest, now deputy circuit clerk, aud Charles H., the
eldest, the subject of this sketch, who was born at Dayton,
Ohio, Feb. 24, 1842. He was educated in the common
schools of Chester and Pinckneyville. Before he attained
his majority the war of 1861 broke out, and on the 24th day
of July, 1801, he enlisted for three years' service in Co. G,
12th 111. Inft,, and remained with the company until June,
186i, when he was detailed for special duty in the regi-
mental adjutant's office, and there remained until he was
356 HISTOHY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
detailed as clerk at post head-quarters, at Coriuth, Miss.
He was successively detailed clerk to Brigade adjutant's
office, Brigade quarterinaster's office and finally to Division
quartermaster's office of the 4th Division 15th Army Corps,
where he remained until the expiration of his service, and
then accepted an appointment as chief clerk in that office
until the close of the war, and practically remained in the
army until July, 18ti5, when he returned to Pinckneyville,
and in November, 1865, entered the circuit clerk's office as
deputy, and so remained until August 10, 1867, when the
death of J. 'SI. Brown, the clerk, occurred. On the 12th of
August Mr Roe was appointed clerk by Judge M. C. Craw-
ford, and in November was elected to till out the unexpired
term. In 1868, by reason of his ability and attention to
duties, he was renominated by the Republican party, and at
the general election following was re-elected ; he has since
been successively re-elected in the years 1872, 1876 and
1880, and at the expiration of the present term will have
been clerk of said court for seventeen successive years.
Such a record of continued confidence in his integrity and
ability any one may be proud of. As an official he is
quick, prompt and industrious, looking carefully after the
details of the office, and keeping the records in a clear,
business-like style. In his intercourse with the public he
is attentive and accommodating, and at all times read}' to
furnish information, and in such a cheerful manner as to
win him many friends and make him; almost a necessity in
the office, to which much of his poipularity is due. In
1867 he began abstracting the titles of the lands of Perry
countv, completing the same in I8i81,and which he has
always kept open to public inspection free of charge. In
politics he is a staunch Republican, his first vote being cast
for Lincoln for President, since which time he has been a
consistent member of that political organization. On the
16th day of September, 1S66, he was united in marriage to
Harriet V. Jones, youngest daughter of Humphrey B.
and Harriet (^Dobbyns) Jones. Her parents were natives of
Virginia and Kentucky, and moved to Illinois in the year
1821, where he engaged in the practice of medicine: he
moved to Pinckneyville in 1827. Mr. Jones during his life
filled many offices of honor and trust in Perry county. He
held the offices of circuit and county clerk and probate
judge when the county was first organized, and for a number
of years afterwards. In fact, for a long time he
held all the offices of the county except that of sheriff, —
including that of postmaster at Pinckneyville. In 1840
he commenced* the practice of law, and from that time
until his death was the leading lawyer of the county ; he
was a member of the constitutional convention of Illinois in
the vear 18-15. He was a man of strict probity of charac-
ter, honorable to a fault, aud possessed of the kindliest
feelings toward all. Few men of his day had finer business
qualifications, and for years he was regarded as the encyclo-
piedia of knowledge pertaining to the records and business
of said county. He died November 25, 18-55.
The connections of Mr. Roe seem to have been singu-
larly fortunate in being selected to official positions. Himself
and father-in-law circuit clerk of said county, and his
younger brother, his deputy, married the youngest dauo-hter
of Evan B. Rushing, who was for eight years circuit clerk
of said county. The terms of the three represent forty-one
years of the said office. In addition, the uncle of Mr. Roe, Col.
E. R. Roe, was for four years circuit clerk of McLean county,
and afterwards U S. Marshal for the southern district of
Illinois. Two uncles of Mr. Roe also occupied official posi-
tions in Ohio, one as county auditor at Dayton, Ohio, and
one as county inspector of the same place. Mr. Roe and
Mr. Rushing have been for three elections pitted against
each other as representing the strength of the opposing
parties, and at each election exerted the strength and ac-
tivity of their friends to the utmost
There have been born to Charles H. and Harriet V. Roe
eight children, seven of whom are now living, to wit :
Fannie Gertrude, Jennie Jones, Harriet Maria, Robert
Boyer, Charles Henry, Thomas Hamilton and John DeWitt.
Mr. and Mrs, Roe are both members of the Methodist
Episcopal church
The parentage of Humphrey B. Jones was as follows:
William Jones, born April 24, 1772, of Welsh parentage,
and Humphrey B. Jones was born January 13, 1799.
HON. JOHN W. PYATT.
The Pyatt family, of which the subject of this sketch is
a member, are the descendants of a Quaker family who
came to America with William Penn, founded Philadelphia
and settled Pennsylvania. There the family lived for sev-
eral generations. Ebenezer Pyatt, the grandfather of John
W., was born in Philadelphia, in 1755. During the Revo-
lutionary war he espoused the cause of the patriots and en-
Ibted in the army under Washington, and remained in
the service four years. A grateful country in after years
acknowledged his services and he became a revolutionary
pensioner. After the war he married Rebecca Jlilburn, of
Loudon county, Virginia, and soon after moved to Southern
Ohio, at which place a few settlements had been made.
From there he went to Tennessee, then to Kentucky and in
1814, came to the Territory of Illinois and settled in what
is now known as Jackson county, and there lived until
his death, which took place January 20, 1835. There were
seven children by his marriage with Rebecca Milburn,
one of whom was Samuel Pyatt, father of the present
family. He was born in Southern Ohio, April 16, 1793.
He came to Illinois in 1814, and settled in Jackson county,
and remained a resident of that county until April, 1829,
when he removed to Perry county at a point southwest
from where the town of Du Quoin now stands. There he
rented land, farmed it, aud during the winter months taught
school. About two years later he moved to sec. 8, twp. 6,
R. 2, to land that he had entered, and there remained until
his death, which occurred September 21, 1875. In 1817,
he married Miss Mary, daughter of John Phelps, a native
of Kentucky, but a resident of Williamson county at the
time of her marriage. She died January 4, 1846. He sub-
sequently married Mrs. Cyrena Marlin. who still survives
356A
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
357
her liusbaDtl and at jireseut lives iu Jasper county, Mis-
souri. By the union of Sarauel and Mary (Piielps) Pyatt
there were nine children, one of whom died in infancy, and
another, a daughter, died at the age of fourteen. Seven of
the children grew to maturity, and six are yet living. James
M. one of the sons, enlisted at the breaking out of the Mexican
war, in Co. K, 2nd Regt., and while en route to the seat of war
was accidentally shot while the command to which he was
attached was passing through Texas, and near the renowned
Alamo, made famous and historical in the annals of Texas
when that State threw off the yoke of Mexico. He died
three months after at San Antouia, from the effects of his
wound. John W. Pyatt, the subject of this sketch, was
born in Jackson county, Illinois, June 22, 1820. He was
raised upon the farm, and received a limited education in
the subscription schools of Jackson and Perry counties.
His education has been that of self-culture, and was derived
more from general reading and habits of close observation
than from schools
He remained at home until the Mexican war, when he en-
listed for one year's service in Co. K of the 2ud Illinois Regt.
commanded by Col. Bissell, afterward Governor of the
State. After his brother received his accidental wound he
was detailed to take care of him, and during the next three
months nursed him until death relieved him of his charge.
In the meantime the army had passed on to the seat of war
and had fought the battle of Buena Vista. So arduous was
Mr. Pyatt's duties in taking care of his brother, and being
unaccustomed to the climate and water, his own health gave
wa)', and from that time to the present, he has been an invalid.
At the expiration of his term of service he returned home,
and in 1849 was solicited to run for Sheriff. He consented
and was elected. In 1853 he was elected County Clerk, and
re-elected in 1857, and held that position until 1861. On
July 2, 1859, he married Mrs. Lj'dia E Burnell nee
Andrews. She was a native of New York. In 1864, he
moved on to a farm and farmed until the death of his wife,
which sad event occurred May 6, 1878. Since that time he
has practically made his home with his brother. Politically
Mr. Pyatt was originally a Henry Clay Whig, and iu 1844,
cast his first vote for " Gallant Harry of the West." After
the disbandment of the Whig party he joined the Repub-
lican ranks, and voted for Abraham Lincoln. From that
time to the present has been devoted to the principles of
that political organization.
In 1872, his worth and standing as a citizen, was honor-
ably recognized by being elected to represent the 48th Dis-
trict iu the General A.ssembly of the State. While a mem-
ber of that body he earned the reputation of being a careful
and prudent member, and one who carefully guarded the
rights of his immediate constituents and voted for measures
that were in the interest of the whole State. In 1875, he
was elected one of the County Commissioners, re-elected in
1878, and again elected in 1881, and is now serving his
third term in that body. We simply mention these facts in
the history of Mr. Pyatt, as it seems to show in what esti-
mation he is held by the people in whose midst he has lived
for over fifty years. He succeeded to the confidence of the
citizens of Perry county over thirty years ago, and from that
time to the present has not forfeited it, but rather has grown
in their esteem and giod will. This a record of which any
man may be proud. In his manner Judge Pyatt is a plain,
unassuming man, making no pretensions to be other than
what he is — a quiet and unobtrusive gentleman.
CAPTAIN M. C. EDWARDS.
The Edwards family are descendants of English ancestors,
but for many generations have been residents of this country.
Cilviu Edwards, the grandfather, was a native of Vermont,
born in 1786. He removed to Ohio in LS14, and in 1818
came to Illinois and settled at Shawneetown, and there
remained until 1835, when he came to Perry county, and
died here December 2, 1861. He was a farmer by occupa-
tion. He married Fanny Cook, who was born in 1780 in
Connecticut. She survived her husband, and died in the
spring of 1S76 at the advanced age of ninety-six years. Of
that union was William Edwards, the father of Mortimer
C He was born in Athens, Vermont, February 14,1805.
He was a mere lad when the family moved to Ohio, and in
his bo)hood, when they came to Illinois. He grew up to
manhood in Shawneetown, and remained there until 1830,
when became to Pinckneyville, and here he and his brother
engaged in mercantile business, in which he continued until
Saptembsr, 1843, when he eomraeuced the practice of
law, which he continued until his deatii, which occurred
April 10, 18.54.
On the 24th of May, 1832, he was united in marriage to
Miss Juliet M., daughter of Samuel and Elizabeth (Jenkins)
Brown. Mrs. Edwards was born in Abington, Washington
county, Virginia, in 1813. She was a resident of Shawnee-
town, Illinois, at the time of her marriage. She still sur-
vives her husband, and is a resident of Pinckneyville. By
the union of Mr and Mrs. Edwards there were eight chil-
dren, six of whom reached maturity, and three of
whom are now living. Their names in the order of
their birth are Cordelia, who was the wife of Lewis
Hammack. She died, leaving three children. Gilbert H.
was the second son. He enlisted during the late war in
Company A, of the Eighteenth Regiment, Illinois Volunteer
Infantry, and died at Cairo, Illinois, ill August, l''<61, from
disease contracted while in the line of his duty. Eliza was
the wife of C C. Irwin. She died, leaving two children. Row-
ena was the wife of J. D. Hamilton. They are both residents of
Geneva, Nebraska. W. W. is the youngest living. He is
a practicing attorney of Pinckneyville. Mortimer C, the
subject of this sketch, was born in Pinckneyville, March
14, 1838. He wa-s educated in the common schools of his
native town, which was supplemented by two years tuition
in Masonic College, located at Lexington, Missouri. He
then entered the office of Lewis Hammack and commenced
the study of law, and after reading the standard text books
and making suitable progress was upon examination in open
court admitted to the bar. The date of his admission was
in the fall of 1860. The war of the rebellion breaking out
soon afterward he assisted in raising a company for the
service. Upon its organization Mr. Edwards was elected
358
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
First Lieutenant, and duly commissioned. The company
became a part of tlie 18th Regiment, Illinois Volunteer
Infantry, and was known as Company C The date of the
muster in was August 10, 1862. The regiment was organized
and rendezvoused at Anna, Illinois, and from there pro-
ceeded to Cairo, where it became a part of the Third Bri
gade of the Third Division of the Seventeenth Army Corps
The regiment received its first baptism of fire at Fort
Gibson, May 1st, 1863. Afterward it took part in the siege,
reduction and capture of Vicksburg. In the charge upon the
works of the latter place May 22, 1863, company C went into
the fight with thirty-two men, and so desperate and deadly was
the fire of the enemy that they left twenty-four dead and
wounded on the field of battle. After the capture of Vicks-
burg the regiment was detached and joined the command
under General Thomas, and were placed in the corps com-
manded by General A. J. Smith, and under him made the
memorable campaign through Missouri in their eflTort to
capture the rebel General Price. Before, however, going
upon that raid they assisted in the battle of Guntown, or
Tupelo. After the campaign in Missouri they went to St.
Louis and embarked for Nashville, where they joined
Thomas' forces and assisted in the battle of Nashville, which
resulted in the annihilation of Hood's forces. Soon after
they joined the forces at Mobile, and participated in the cap-
ture of Fort Blakely and Spanish Fort. The regiment then
returned to Montgomery, Alabama, where they were mus-
tered, and proceeded to Chicago,where they were discharged.
Lieutenant Edwards was promoted to the captaincy of the
company and commissioned in June, 1864, soon after the
battle of Tupelo. Captain Edwards returned home and
here engaged in various businesses until 1869, when he
engaged regularly in the practice of law in which he has con-
tinued until the present. In 1880 he was nominated for
the ofiice of State's Attorney by the Republican party, in
convention assembled, and at the ensuing election in Novem-
ber was elected by a handsome majority. Mr. Edwards is
recognized as an able and vigilant prosecutor, well read in
law and a good advocate. His official career so far has
justified the wisdom of those who honored him with their
suffrages. Politically, he is a thorough-paced Republican,
and a prohibitionist in sentiment. He is an honorable
member of the A. F.and A. M. order. On the 23d of August,
1860, he married Miss H. M. Edwards, a native of Pinck-
neyville, by which union there are two children, whose
names are Emma A., wife of J. A. Biby, of Cairo, Illinois,
and William O. Edwards. Both he and his wife are mem-
bers of the M. E. church.
RICHARD M. DAVIS.
The Davis family are of Welsh ancestry on the paternal
side and Irish on the maternal. Four generations ago, the
paternal great-grandfather emigrated from Wales and settled
in Virginia. There his son, Isham Davis, was born and
there grew to manhood. About 1808, the family moved to
Kentucky, and settled in Warren county, and there Isham
Davis died. He married a Miss Gillam, and of that union
was born Richard" Gillam Davis, father of the subject of
this sketch. He was born in Virginia in 1806. He was in
his infancy when the family went to Kentucky. In 1828
he came to Illinois and settled in Randolph county, near
what is now known as Steelesville. In 1849, he took up his
permanent residence in Perry county, and died near the
village of Denmark, in June, 18.51. He was a regularly
ordained minister in the Baptist church, and followed his
ministerial calling until his death. He married Eliza
Bradley, a native of Tennessee, daughter of Joshua and
Nancy (Gardner) Bradley. She was a resident of Jackson
county, Illinois, at the time of her marriage. She still sur-
vives her husband, and at present is a resident of Pinckney-
ville. By her marriage with Mr. Davis there were eight
children, five of whom are living. Richard !M. is the eldest.
He was born in Jackson county, Illinois, September 15,
1834, and was in his fourth year when the family removed
to Perry county. The family subsequently removed to
Randolph county, and again returned and located per-
manently here in 1849, as above stated. Richard M. was
educated in the public schools of Randolph and Perry
counties. He farmed, taught school during the winter
seasons, and remained so engaged until July, 1862, when he
assisted in raising a company of soldiers for the war. Upon
its organization it was known as Co. " I " of the 80th Regt.
111. Vol. Infantry. Mr. Davis was elected 2nd Lieutenant,
and duly commissioned. He remained in the service and
with the company until June, 1863, when continued ill-
health compelled his resignation. He returned home and
commenced the study of law in the office of Lewis Ham-
mack and John Boyd, and in May, 1864, was admitted to
the bar. He commenced the practice in connection with
his preceptor, Mr. Hamraack, which arrangement continued
until 1866, then practiced alone until 1876, when he again
formed a law partnership with Mr. Hammack, which con-
tinued until November, 1882, when it was dissolved by
mutual consent. In 1863, he was elected superintendent of
schools of Perry county and held the office one term.
Politically Mr. Davis was originally an old line whig, and
voted for Fillmore in 1856, and in 1860 he voted for Lincoln
and remained a Republican until 1872, when he joined the
Liberal party, voted for Horace Greeley, and subsequently
acted and voted with the Democrats. In 1876, he was
nominated for the office of state's attorney by the Demo-
cratic party in Convention assembled, and notwithstanding
the county was Republican, Mr. Davis was elected by
seventy-five majority. As a public prosecutor he was
vigilant and ac'ive, and justified the wisdom of those who
had honored him with their suffrages. As a lawyer, Mr.
Davis is well read, has a clear conception of the law govern-
ing his cases, and in the cause of his clients is very indus-
trious and painstaking. On the 6th of March, 1865, he was
joined in holy wedlock with Mrs. Catherine O. Vineyard
nee Willis, daughter of James Willis. She had two child-
ren by her former husband. Their names are Albert and
Mary J. The latter married W. J. Gordon, now deceased.
By her latter marriage with Mr. Davis there were five
children, three of whom died in infancy and early childhood.
The names of those living are Maggie F. and Annie B. Davis.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
359
Jr^. #/^:
^ Cf^t '^^^^^^-^^
The subject of the followiug sketch is a native of Phila-
delphia, born December 6th, 1848. The family is of
Scotch ancestry. His father, James F. McCandless, was
born in New York, removed to Philadelphia, and there
married Mary J. Lemon, who was a native of the latter
city. In 1857 he came west to Illinois, and settled in
Sparta, in Randolph county, where his wife and mother of
Dr. McCandless died in 1859. During the late war he
enlisted in Co. A. of the 22d Regiment Illinois Infantry,
and was injured in the service before his time expired,
which compelled his discharge.
He is now a resident of Terre Haute, Indiana, where he is
enaged in the agricultural implement trade. Dr. William
L. is the eldest of a family of four children, three of whom
are living. He was in his ninth year when the family came
west. His schooling was obtained in Sparta, and a short
time in the High School in Du Quoin. His mother dying
while he was yet a youth, and his father entering the army
in 1861, had the effect of breaking up the family. When
in his thirteenth year he came to Perry county and made
his home with Matthew Kule, a prominent farmer of this
county, and remained with him at work on the farm until
he reached his twenty-first year. He then concluded to
adopt the profession of medicine as the business of life, and
with that idea in view, came to Pinckneyville and entered
the office of Dr. James Ritchie, and studied under his
directions. In order to sustain himself and defray expenses
through the Medical College, he clerked in a drug store,
and thereby provided means. He studied diligently up to
the fall of 1870, when he entered Rush Medical College at
Chicago, and continued there through two terms, and
graduated from that institution in the spring of 1872 with
the degree of M.D. He commenced the practice in Pinck-
neyville in connection with his preceptor. The partnership
continued two years, after which Dr. McCandless practiced
alone, and has so continued to the present. The Doctor
belongs to the progressive school of medicine, and keeps
well posted and fully abreast with all the discoveries that
are constantly being made in the science of medicine. He
is a member of the Tri-State and Southern Illinois Medical
Societies, which have for their object the mutual advance-
ment of its members in the healing art. Dr. McCandless
S60
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
has been emineutly successful iu his profession, ilud has
succeeded by his zeal, studious habits and superior
knowledge iu bnilding up a large and lucrative practice.
On the 14th of May, 187!), he was united in marriage to
Miss Lizzie, daughter of Dr. Janies and Mary J. Murphey
Ritchie. Her mother was the daughter of Hon. W C.
Murphey, one of the pioneers and prominent men in an
early day of Perry county. He was the first sheriff of the
county in 1827, and held many other offices of equal im-
portance. Mrs. McCandless was born in Perry county.
One child has been born to them, named Marion
McCandless. Dr. McCandless is a strong and ardent be-
liever in the principles of the Democratic party, and votes
that ticket on all national and state occasions.
THOMAS F. PENWARDEN.
The subject of the following sketch is of English parentage.
His father emigrated from England to Canada in 1842, and
there died in 18.51. He was a seafaring man, and married
Sarah Bromell, a native of Devonshire, England. At present
she is a resident of Wisconsin. By that marriage there were
four children ; three sons and one daughter. Thos. F. was
born in Elgin county, Canada, January 28ih, 1843. In 18.33,
he was taken by his maternal uncle to Wisconsin. At the
age of twelve years he shipped as a cabin boy on board a
vessel plying between Chicago and Buffalo. He stayed on
the lake, and also sailed on the ocean until 1861, when he
returned and in company with others started for Pike's Peak,
but hearing bad reports from that place turned back to
Fort Leavenworth, and there he and his comrades enlisted
for three years in the 3rd Reg. Kansas Vols. Cavalry, after-
wards known as the 5th Kansas. Date of enlistment was
July 11th, 1861. In 1864 he veteranized with his command
and remained in the service until the close of the war. On
the 25th of April, 18H4, he was wounded at the battle of
Mark's Mills, and left for dead on the field. He was taken
prisoner, paroled and sent to Fort Leavenworth, and as soon
as he recovered rejoined his command. He was also woun
dcd at Pine bluff, and in South Carolina, when under Sher-
man in his famous march to the Sea, taken prisoner, sent to
Libby, and was in the last lot of prisoners freed from that
famous prison. He was mustered out and honorably dis-
charged at Louisville Ky., in July 1865, having been in the
service exactly four years. He was attracted to Du (Juoin
where his mother who had married again was living, and here
engaged in mining, in which he continued until elected
Sheriff of Perry county.
On the 2nd of December, 1866, he was united in marriage
to Jane, daughter of Robert and Agnes Houston. She was
born in Scotland and came with her parents to America in
1853. By that union there are three children living, whose
names are Robert, Thomas and John Penwarden. He is an
honored member of the A. F. & A. M. order and also a
member of the Royal Arch Chapter. Both he and his wife
are members of the M E. Church. Politically he has
always voted the Republican ticket. In 1880 he was regu-
larly nominated for Sheriff of Perry county by the Repub-
lican party in convention as embled,andin November follow-
ing was elected by a handsome majority. During his term
of office it became his duty to execute the extreme sentence
of the law passed upon James Vaughn. He obeyed the
mandaie of the courts and hung the prisoner on the day
and hour fixed for the execution. That was the first judi-
cial hanging ever held in Perry county. Mr. Penwarden
nnide a nioa excellent Sheriff. No man ever held the office
who executed the laws more faithfully, or guarded the inter-
ests and rights of the people more jealously. He is a man
of the most generous impulses, warm-hearted and kind to a
fault ; one who would share his last crust or coat if possible
with a friend. This trait is characteristic of Thos. Penwar-
den.
T A M A R ( J A .
PERRY COUNTY.
jIj^^^l^'JHIS portion of the county occupies the extreme
SXljJ^ northeast, and is bounded on the nortii by
^^. Washington county, on the east by Jefferson
and Franklin, on the south by Paradise and
Du Quoin Precincts, and on the west by Pinck-
neyville and Beaucoup. The surface, though
mainly level, and apparently flat, is quite ele-
'*' vated, and the drainage is good. The soil is
principally of the prairie kind, and is well adapted to wheat-
growing. Corn, though cultivated to some extent, is re-
garded as an uncertain crop, and less profitable than wheat.
which is the staple. Other cereals are also grown. Though
the precinct is composed of land mainly under cultivation,
yet there is timber, — chiefly hard wood,— sufficient for the
ordinary purposes of life. The principal water-courses are
Little Muddy river, Little Beaucoup, and Rees' creek.
The precinct has excellent railroad facilities, tMe Illinois
Central extending through it from north to south, and the
Tamaroa and Chester, connecting with the Cairo Short Line
at Pinckneyville, terminating at the village of Tamaroa, in
the central part. The principal industry of the inhabitants
is agriculture, although coal-mining is carried on to some
3 60 A
STORE or PC KNAPP, DEALER IN GENERAL MERCHANDISE, CHESTER IL L
"THE ROOTS PLACE'; S.E.^4 T.5 S.R.I W.3 '.° P M. AND ADJOINING LANDS PURCHASED BY B.G. ROOTS IN 1838 & 1833,
WHEN RAW PRAIRIE AND BROUGHT TO ITS PRESENT CONDITION BY HIM & MEMBERS OE HIS EAMIL Y viz. MARTHA S. HIS El HS T
WIFE, EL I7ABETH R. HIS PRESENT iVIEL, R K & L.H ROOTS, HIS SONS, MARTHA E. HIS DAUGHTER, J. C. KIMSEY HER HUSBAND .
SITUATED ON I.C.R.R. 2 MILES SOUTH DP TAMAROA .
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AXD PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
:?fil
extent. Cattle-breeding receives some attention. The Jer-
seys were introduced by \l J Cox in lS(i(J. The Diiriu.ni
br>.'ed largely prevails.
K.iRLY HISTORY.
The dates of the earliest settlements in Tamaroa pncinct
are necessarily obscure, and are arrived at with difficulty
and some uncertainty. But from information «hich we
have good reason to credit, the first settlement was made
about the year IMl-J by the parents of the late Judge 11 T.
Rees of Cutler precinct, who settled near what is now known
as Rees' creek, which took its name from that family.
Following this settlement was that of a Aimily named
Foster, about the year 182.J. Benjamin Haramack, a native
of Virginia, came into the precinct, in 182-S, from Jackson
countv, and located on section seventeen, township four
south, range one west. He had a wife and four chddrcn.
When he arrived, he found located on the same section N.
G Curlee, who had preceded him only a few months. He
and his family stopped with Abe Morgan, who lived on the
Samuel Benson place, and who had located several years
previous to 1.S28. Stephen Brown and family came soon
after Hammack, and located in the same section. About
1829 came the Bland family, consisting of the elder John
Bland and wife, John and David Bland, his .sons, and their
families, who came from Tennessee. Between the years
1828 and 1833 came James Johnson, Daniel Council, Jacob
Walker Blackstock and Isaac B Walker, Peter Scronce,
Richard Hull, James, Robert and Solomon Carpenter,
from North Carolina ; a f\imily of Calloways, who settled
on section o ; the Robinsons and Martin C. Lindsley. Ben-
jamin Hammack located on section 20, twp. 4, range 1, in
1829. Abuer Keith was one of the first settlers in the trm
of the Kine Mile Prairie; William Dial located in Para-
dise Prairie; William Williams, George Sturtevant, old
Joe Little, Henry and John Bridges, and Thomas Metcalf,
Tennesseeans, came to the precinct about 18;>(3. Richard
Hull and Henry Bridges were notorious throughout that
part of the county as gr. at hunters. Isaac Lee, Abraham
Lee, Simuel Eiherton, Anthony Liffjrty, Thomas Morris,
William Dye, Sanniel Di.von and Henry Oohan were among
the earlv settlers of this precinct. Dr. J. S. Williams, a
native of Kentucky, came to the county in 1840. He is
now a practicing physician in Tamaioa.
Illustrative of the force of pioneer custom of those early
days, we cite the incident related of Martin C. Lindsley, who
lo.st the respect and esteem of all of his pioneer neighbors
by the simi)le act of inviting them to a house-raising after
breakfast, which they regarded as a gross violation of pio-
neer etiquette, too palpable to be forgotten, and ever after
stamped him in their estimation as too selfish and stingy for
their fellowship.
The first dry goods store in the precinct dates back to
1834, and was kept by Nathan G. Curlee, in a little shed-
room ten feet square, on his farm, some three miles north of
the present site of Tamaroa. Mr. Curlee was a prominent
man in that precinct among the early settlers, acting as he
did in the varied capacity of farmer, merchant, minister and
40
postmaster,at what, if we are properly informed, was known
as Appleton i)ost-office, about the year 1840. The fir.st
blacksmith who had his shop and did work in this precinct
was Henry Biidgcs. Previous to his day ( 1.S30), the settlers
h,d their sujithwork done at Old Man White's in Mud
prairie, in the ed^e of Washington county. In 1829 and
1830, Benjamin Hammack, a wheelwright, made truck
wagons, stoc'ied plows, and did such other work as the far
mors stood in need of in the way of repairs. The early set-
tlers (182^-'30) got their milling at what was known as
Stilley's mill, north from Tamaroa, in the edge of Washing-
ton county. It was one of the old pioneer style of horse-
mills, with cog-wheel attachment and buhrs about two feet
and ahalf in diameter, and, when run steadily all day,
would grind about fifteen bushels of corn. When they
ground wheat on it, the ilour was bolted by h::nd. The
crank, which was turned by b;)ys, required regularity in the
turning, in order that the flour might bolt evenly. Oar
informant, who hail experience at the old bolt-crank,
said : " When we got to turning irregularly, the old miller,
Stilley, would yell out at us, ' turn that crank regular ; I
don't want your f.ither fu,ssing about the way that flour is
bolted.'" "The old Stilley mill was the principal institution
of that kind for a number of years, and was patronized al-
most entirely by the neighbors for eight or ten miles around.
It was finally purchased by one Lazarus Stuart, who re-
moved it to the neighborhood of Coloma.
Subsequent to 183(), William Christian owned a little
mill two and a-half miles northeast of Tamaroa, which did a
considerable amount of grinding for the early -settlers.
Among the first preachers in the precinct, were, James
Walker and Rev. Barr, of the ^Methodist denomination, the
latter the circuit rider. This was al out 1831. previous to
the organization of a church, when the meetings were held
at the house of Benjamin Hammack. N. G. Curlee was for
many years a ministtr of the Gjspel, of the ISIethodist de-
nomination, and preached in that precinct. One incident of
Rev. Curlee's preaching, which occurred in 1840, has come
to us in gathering up our scraps of the jiioneer days. His
subject on the occasion allu led to w;-.s '-Abraham ottering up
Isaac." In the course of his sermon, becoming somewhat
animated and wound up, he described the ram which the
Lord provided as " Tied by a rope in the bushes, wai ing
for the sacrifice." The first local preachers were. Rev.
Curlee, and " Father " Depositor, as he was familiarly known
in those days. He organized the first M. E. Church in the
precinct, at the Bland school-house, about \>>'-)\ or '32, and
about the year 1833 or 1834, the school-house having been
removed, the meetings were held at the house of Benjamin
Hammack, where they were c ntinued up to 1837.
Isaac B. Walker, was tbc first class leader, and James
Walker was a licensed Exhorter, who occasionally preached.
In 1837, Win Hammack sold out ami moved to Holt's
Prairie, where the church was still kept up at his re.-idence,
until ho moved to the arm of Nine Mile, about '48 or '49,
when the church went down, and was neglected. About
the year 1831, and several years afterward, Shadrach
Cheek, a hard shell Baptist preacher, called in those days.
362
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
the "01(1 Regulars,' held meeting from time to time in ths
Stilley Settlement. The first Sabba'hschool held in the
precinct, was organized at the Bland school house, by Rev.
James Walker, Itinerant preacher, and Elder S. J. Borger,
presiding Elder, abjut 1831. Nathan G. Curlee and Thos.
O. Ellis, were Superintendents, and Benjamin Hammack
and wife, Joseph Tilley and Elizabeth Slurdevant, were the
teachers. The Sunday-school enterprise met with very
strong oppositi n at that early day, from many, even the
most pious professors, they regarding it as a questioi able
innovation upon the church, and as calculated rather to
iiijure its influence than to add support to its cause.
The first tchool-house was the Bland school house, built
about 1832 or '33, and was named after old Grandfather
Bland. It was about four or five miles north of Tamaroa.
The first ti acher wa-i Jacob Walker. His qualifications as
a teacher in Mathematics were expressed, in the homely
phrase, of " Cipl tr thicugh Long Division." Some of his
more advanced i-cholars, however, even doubled his capacity
in that rule. The first school consisted of about twenty-five
scholars — tuition, $2 00 a scholar, per quarter. In 1834,
a second school was taught at the same place, by old Grand-
daddy Johnson, as he was familiaily called. He was deaf
and indiscreet, and faikd to control the school, and it broke
off before his term was regularly ended. Dr. Joseph Bray,
thaw, who lived near old Du Quoin, was the chief reliance
of the pioneer settlers of this precinct, for medical aid, for a
number of years. Dr. Wm. Weir was the first resident
physician. Dr. Wall, of Du Quoin, practiced in the pre-
cinct, in 1840, and for several years thereafter
The following were the first land entries in the precinct :
October Uth, 1832, George Lipe entered N. E J of S.
W. J of section 18, thirty-four and forty-four hundredths
acres. January 3, 1833, Wra. Hatcher entered E i of N.
W. i of section 5, seventy-five and seventy one hundredth
acres. January 23d, 1833, Abraham Morgan entered S.
W. i of N. E. i of section 18, forty acres.
VILLAGE OF TAMAEOA.
After the Illinois Central railroad was located. Col. R. B.
Mason, chief engineer, proposed to Mrs. Nelson Holt and
Mrs. B. G. Roots, that they name the station which the
company had decided to locate on the present site of the
village of Tamaroa. At first thty chose the name of
" Kiawkashaw," after a tribe of Indians. They afterwards
adopted the more polite and euphobious "Tamaroa," which
was the French name of that tribe. The village was laid
out on the N. E J of section thirty two, T. 4, R. 1, by the
Central Railroad Company, J. N. A. Griswold, President,
and surviyed and platted May 14, 1855, by Nathan Holt,
deputy county surveyor. After the village was first platted,
it received three additions, one by the railroad company,
one of thirty acr^s, by W. E. Smith, north of the original
plat, and one of forty acres, by Joseph Cox, on the so"th.
The present area of the village is one square mile. The
first election fur trustees was held April 4, 1859. and
resulted in the choice of Thomas Sanders, R H. Davis, S.
A. Beard, F. B. Garner and M. S. Spencer. The village is
pleasantly located, and has excellent railroad facilities.
Among the railroad improvemei ts is a large union freight
depot and a passenger house, belonging to the Illinois
Central Railmad Co. The company have a park extending
along the railroad four hundred feet long and eighty feet
wide. It is shaded by forest trees. The school-house is a
two-story frame, and contains four rooms. The first public
school building was erected in 1861. It was destroyed by
fire in 1873, and the present one was immediately built.
Prior to 1861, school was taught in unoccupied dwellings.
The first village teacher was Miss Bonner. The school was
graded in 1859- GO. The three church edifices are frame
buildings, and belong respectively to the Methodist, the
Presbyterian, and the Baptist denomination. The first in
the order mentioned was built in 1858, the second in 1869,
and the remaining one in 1874. The first house in the vil-
lage was put up by the railroad company in August and
September of 1854. It was a two story frame building,
erected for a boarding house. The first settlers of the town
were Mrs N. Holt, Samuel Ewing, William Garner,
Samuel Eaton, r . P. and E. H. Simmons, Allen Pailier, D.
C. Barber, and D. Saucks. N. Holt assisted in surveying
and laying out the town, and was the first postmaster and
station agent, the latter of which positions he still holds.
We have no hesitation in saying Mr. Holt is the oldest
station agent in this county, having performed its duties
satisfactorily to the company for twenty-eight years in succes-
sion. Barber and Simmons put up the first store ; Beard
and Hague starting a store about the same time. The first
resident physician was William E. Smith.
PRESENT BUSINESS.
Cox's Coal Mine is owned by Joseph C ix, and is leased
and worked by P. White. The shaft is two hundred feet
(feep, through which are raised daily from seventy-five to
eighty tons of coal. The machin-^ry is operated by a thir-
teen horse-power engine. The vein is six feet, and fifteen
men are employed in mining the coal.
Barber's Coal Mine is owned and operated by D. C.
Barber The mine is worked by a shaft two hundred feet
in depth The coal is raised by a thirteen horse-power
engine from a vein six feet in thickness. Fifteen men are
employed, and about seventy five tons of coal are raised
daily. The tunnel to connect these mines and to afford
ventilation and safety for them is rapidly approaching com-
pletion.
Tamaroa Mill— The original mill, built by B. P Curlee
and A. Anderson, was burned in 1861. These gentlemen
immediately rebuilt the present mill, whose value, including
equipments, is about SI 0,000 ' It has three run of burrs,
two for wheat and one for corn, and its capacity is fifty
barrels a day. The size of the main buildiug is forty-six by
forty feet. There is a slied altachiiieiil, forty by ten feet,
and an engine room, forty by twenty fett The motive is
supplied by a forty horse power engine. The present owner
and proprietor is Mr. H W. Adams.
Tamaroa Custom Mill is owned and operated by J. H.
Eaton. It is a combined saw and grist mill. The saw mill
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
363
department was built in 1877, ami a corn burr with a
capacity of one hundred bushels a day was soon added.
The sawing department does custom work in hard wood ex-
clusivelv, and is equipppd willi a " doul)le saw ri:,' " A wheat
burr was added in 18S1, with a capacity of sixiy bushels a
day. The grist mill is thirty-five by thirty feet in length and
brea'th, and the value of the entire esta'^lishment is about
83 000
R C Lisenbcy'g Grist and Siw MilU were built by Henry
Willis in 1876. and are operated by the present owner. The
building is fifty feet in length, and twenty four f.et in
breadth. The engine-room is eighteen by twenty-four feet,
and the engine has a capacity of sixteen horse-power. The
present value of the mills is about S'5,000.
rhy.ilci(m.i.—T. M. Sams, J. S Williams, F M. Ward. S.
J Layman.
Lawyer and litdl E^tiie Agent. — Henry Clay.
Police Magistrate — John W. Corgan.
Justices of the Peace — W H. H. Large, S L. Willoughliy.
General Stores. — IJlanchard .\: Co., D. C. Barber & Sous,
D. A. Spencer, A; Blanchard.
Family Groceries. — P. White.
Hardware, Stores, Tinware and Agricultural Implements. —
M. F. Stone Milo Keck.
Drug Stores. — Williams i Willoughby, B. F. Lipe.
Hotel —A. P. Adams.
Butcher. — John Miller.
Barbers. — James Fleuer, A Barker.
Harnessmakers — Pierce & Herrin.
Shoemakers. — F. Ruppe, W. H. H. Large.
Lumherman. — R. C Nicholson.
Livery Stable. — B. 0=born.
Black-Smiths. — Samuel Robinson, T. R. Harrison, James
Taylor, L. Bartneck.
Postmaster and Stationer. — J. B. Swan.
Station Agent. — Nathan Holt.
Carpenters. — W. J. Dingle, Samuel Bear, B. Johnson, J.
W. Curlee.
Furniture. — David Johnston.
Grain Dealers. — W. A. Haines, R. H Nicholson, H. W.
Adams, J. B. Swan. D. C. Barber.
Agricultural Implementi. — John Miller, H. S Patrick, A.
W. Adams.
In.mrance Agents. — A. Blanchard, M. F. Stone, H. S.
Patrick.
Restaurant, Bakery and Cnnje'tionery — Charles and A.
Froelich.
Milliner and Dressmaker. — Mrs. .\. Kerstine.
SOCIETIES.
Tamaroa Lodge, A. F. & A. M., No. 207, was chartered
in 1S.')6. It has a membership of forty brothers, and meets
in Masonic Hall. Its financial condition is good. It owns,
just outside of tiie village limits, a cemetery with an area of
ten acres. It was laid out in 1802, and is ornamenttd with
handsome and costly monuments.
Perry Lodge. Nn. 97. /. 0. 0. F., was cliartereil in 18.')0.
It is in ea.«y circumstances financially, and has a member-
ship of thirty-four. It meets in Odd Fellows' Hall every
Saturday evening.
Royal Templars of Temperance. — The objects of this or-
ganization are mutual aid and the advancement of temper-
ance. It was organized in March, 1877, and it !ias a present
membership of tw.enty persons. It meets regularly on Mon-
day evening of each week in Royal Templars' Hall.
Appleton was laid out by W. E. Smith, and platted and
surveved by Elijah T. Webb, deputy county surveyor, Sep-
tember 23, 18.53, and since added to the village of Tamaroa.
Berlin, an obsolete town, was laid out by N. G. Curlee,
in Section 17, T. 4, S. R. 1, and platted and surveyed by
Thomas H. Campbell, county surveyor, June 11, 1840.
BIOGRAPHIES,
Hon. LYSIAS HEAPE.
Amoxg the old settlers of Perry county is the subject of
the following sketch. He was born in York county, Penn-
sylvania, June C, 1813. Robert Ileape, his great-grand-
father, was by birth an Englishman. He came to America
while yet a boy and settled in Maryland. His son Robert
■was born in Hartford county, same State, as was also John
Shock Heape, the father of Lysias. John C married Mar-
tha Allen, who was born in York county. Pa. In 1816, the
family came west to Ohio and settled in Fairfield county.
There Mr. Heape the father remained until about 18.50,
■when he moved to Indiana, and there died in 1864 at the
advanced age of eighty-four years. Of that union there
were six children — three sons and three daughters ; four of
whom are yet living. Lysias, the subject of this sketMi, is
the second son and third in the family. He was yet in his
infancy when the family left Pennsylvania and settled in
Ohio. He there grew to manhood, and his first schooling
was in a sugar camp, and his teacher a man by the name of
McBride. He subsequently attended the subscription
schools that were held in the rude log school-houses of half a
century ago. When he was eighteen years of age his father
gave him permission to go out into the world and do for
himself. He cut timber— did any and all kinds of work that
came in his way. In 1838, he married and came west to
Illinois. He was attracted to Perry county by ac(iuaint-
ances who had come here from his section of the country,
and also his brother who then lived in Jackson county. He
364
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND FERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
came in a wagon that contained liis household goods aud all
his worldly wealth. He landed here on the lOlh of January,
1840. He prospected around, and in June of the i-ame year
entered a quarter section of land in section 7, T. 5 U. 1, and
there through the kindmss of Mr Holt, now of Taniaroa,
he was permitted to live in a cabin, which was upon the
]atter"s land, until he could improve and prepare a habita-
tion of his own. The first year he built a small clap board
house with puncheon floors — the windows he whittled out
with his penknife in his leisure monienis, and there he and
his wife commenctd housekeeping, and there on that same
piece of land has continued to the present. He was niarritd
on the '/2d cf February. 1828, to Miss Hannah Reeder,
daughter of Joseph and Hannah Reeder. Her mother was
the widow of John L'gan. Her maiden name was Ham p-
Bon. There have been six children born to Mr. and INIrs.
Heape, four of whom are living. Their names in the order
of their birth are— Eunice, who died in her twentieth year;
AVilliam G. who is a farmer and a resident of the county ;
Sarah Ann and Martha, who are teachers in the public
schools of the county. His wife is a member of the Christian
church. From the year 1847 to 1855, Mr. Heape was em-
ployed by the association of the Christian church in Southern
Illinois to preach and travel over the district. In that
ministry he travelled and preached until his voice gave
way, and he was compelled to resign the call. He was wf 11
known far and near, and was prominent as a preacher of the
gospel for many years in Southern Ills. Politically Mr
Heape cast his first vote for Martin Van Buren, but he soon
discovered that his party was pruslavery. He then avowed
his abolition sentiments and cast his vote for James G.
Birney, and afterwards voted for John P. Hale for president.
In 1856, he was one of the few who voted for John C. Fre-
mont. Mr Heape has the honor of being one of the original
and, perhaps, the only avowed abolitionist who lived here as
early as 1840. In 1879, he was elected one of the commis-
sioners of the county by the Republican party. This, in
brief, is a history of Mr. Heape, who may be termed a pioneer
of two States, viz., Ohio and Illinois.
NELSON HOLT.
Among the old settlers and pioneers of Perry county,
Illinois, is the subject of the following brief biographical
sketch. He was born in Monroe county. New York, Janu-
ary 6th, 1816. The family is of English descent, the ances-
tors of whom settled in Connecticut, where his parents, Con-
stant and Sybil (Dart) Holt, were born, reared and mar.
ried. They removed to Monroe county. New York, then a
wilderness in 1812, and there died. Mr. Holt was raised
up on the farm, and received a good English education in
his native State. He commenced teaching before he was
eighteen years of age, and taught for five winters in his na-
tive town. In the autumn of 1839, he came We=t to Shaw-
neetown, Illinois, and taught school there six months. Dur-
ing that winter he purchased one quarter section land in
section six in T. 5 S. R. 1. W- in Perry county. In the
summer of 1840, he rsturned East, and married Eliza G.
Holt of Willington, Connecticut, on the 13th September of
that year, and the same Fall moved to their farm in Illi-
nois, and there resided until the spring of 1842, when he
engaged in teaching school at Pinckneyville foroneyear. In
the spring of 1843, himself and wife went to Jonesboro, in
Union county, where they were both employed in teaching
school for two years He then returned to his farm, and
there, in addition to his farming, opened a private boarding
school, and continued teaching most of the time until March,
1851. On ihe 1st day of August of the same year, he ac-
cepted the position of Civil Engineer on the Illinois Central
railroad, which was thtu in process of location and construc-
tion, and continued in that capacity until April, 1855, when
this part of the road was finished and opened for business.
He was then appointed Station Agent at Tamaroa and has
held that position ever since. At the present time he is the old-
est Agent and employee of the company, having entered its
service in the summer of 1851 — nearly thirty-two years ago
— the ordinary life-time of an individual. What a record
it shows of ability, zeal and faithfulness to the company's
interest. It speaks volumes for Mr. Holt's honesty and in-
tegrity. He is also agent for the St. Louis Coal R. R. Co.,
originally the Chester and Tamaroa road. He has also been
the agent of the American Express Co. for twenty-six years ;
also, agent of the Adams Express Co. for several years
past.
From the spring of 1846, until the fall of 1851, Mr. Holt
was Postmaster of Mt. Hawkins P. O. then located at his
house. During this time he also served the county one term
as County Surveyor and School Commissioner. In May,
1846, there was one daughter born. She died at the age of
six months. October, 1847, another daughter was born
named Emma Eliza, who is the wife of Hamilton Cox, as-
sistant agent and telegraph operator at Taniaroa. They
have two children, named Eliza and N. Holt Cox, twelve
and eight years respectively. Mr. Holt's first wife died
December 7th, 1870, and on the 16th of October, 1871, Mr.
Holt married Mrs. Sophia A. Dunham, a native of Mans-
field, Connecticut. Both Mi: and Mrs Holt are members
of the Baptist church, and he has been a member for over
fifty years. In politics he is a Republican — is in good
health, and bids fair to live and labor for many years to
come.
HON. CHARLES E. R. WINTHROP.
The subject of the following sketch is of English ancestry,
and a descendant of the Pilgrims who landed at Plymouth
Rock, in 1620. Members of the family a few generations
after settled in New York, and there John S. Winthrop,
the father, was born and remained a citizen of that State until
his death. The latter event occurred while he was on a
visit to his son, the subject of this sketch. In life he was en-
gaged in the wholesale dry goods business, in which he
amassed a fortune and then retired. He married Harriet
Rogers, a native of New York city. She died in 1835.
By that union there were ten children, five sons and the
same number of daughters. Three of the sons and two of
the daughtersare yet living. Charles E. R. is the fouth son.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
B65
He was born in New York city, October 8, 1816. In his
youth he enjoyed fair advantages and received a good edu-
cation. At the age of seventeen he was placed in ciiarge
of a wholesale drugstore. During that time the family had
moved back to Stamford, Connecticut, but soon after returned
to New York. Youug Winthrop di.<liking the drug busi-
ness abandoned it, and secured a position as a leveler in the
Engineer corps, on the New York and Erie railroad, which
was then being built. He served ten months in that capa-
city. About that time the Slate of Michigan was carrying
on the general improvement system and were trying to im-
prove the St. Joseph river for slack winter navigation. To
that point Mr. Winthrop made his way and obtained a simi-
lar position. Three mouths later he was sent to Saginaw,
and remained there three years, and then the crash of 18.S7,
so well known in the fiuancid history of the country took
place, and all work was suspended. He returned to New
York, where he made the acquaintance of a young man who
had been to Illinois, and who gave a glowing account of this
county. Young Winthrop came here on a tour of observa-
tion, and finding the country all that his youthful imagina-
tion had painted it, remained here. His arrival dates
November 25, 1839. He purchased eighty acres of land in
sec. 2, of 5-1, on which was a rude cabin. About fifteen
acresof the land were improved and under cultivation. He
commenced farming, for which he always had a strong in-
clination, and followed it and remained where he settled to
the present time. After his first purchase he entered differ-
ent tracts, and now owns a fine body of land. On the
21st of February, 1842, he was united in marriage to Miss
Delilah Lipo, a native of Jackson county, Illinois. She is
the daugh er of Jonas and E-thcr Lipe. By that union there
have been nine children, of whom two sons and three daugh-
ters are yet living. Charles E R. died July 2, 1877. He
in life married Nancy J. Kirkpatrick, and left one child,
named Claude Winthrop. Delilah, wife of Richard Ham-
pieman, died February 14, 1881, leaving two children,
named Winthrop and Auguste. Harriet R. died in her fifth
year, and Emily C. in her third year. The names of those
living are John S. who is a farmer. He married Mi*s Mary
Patrick and has six children, whose names are Charles,
John, Effie, Elsie, Katie and Walter Scott. Henry R. mar-
ried Martha Hutson and has three children, named Carrie,
Dempsy and Handlon. Ellen is the wife of Zebedee Ham-
pieman. Esther is the wife of W. D. Eaton, and has two
children, named Ethel and Roger Eaton. Susan is the
youngest of the children and is yet beneath the paternal
roof. Both Mr. and Mrs. Winthrop are members of the
Missionary Baptist church. He is a member of the A. F.
and A. M. and I. O. O. F. orders. Politically he was
originally an old line Whig, but joined the Republican
party on its organization, and has remained steadfast to its
principles ever since. He served one term as Superinten-
dent of Public Schools. In 1870, he was elected County
Judge. In both positions he gave ample satisfaction, and
evidence of his ability to conduct the offices and discharge
the duties thereof in the interests of the whole of his con-
stituency.
JOHN S WILLIAMS, M. D.
Was born in Allen county, Kentucky, March 2, 1839-
The family is of \Velsh descent. Langslon Williams, the
grandfather of the present family, was born in North Caro-
lina, and while yet a young man went to Kentucky and set.
tied in Allen countj-, and there married Ruth McElroy, who
was of Scotch ancestry. Of that union was Richard H. the
father of John S., who was born in Allen county, Ky., De-
cember 28, 1814. He remained a resident of the latter State
until the spring of 1840, when he came to Illinois and
settled in Perry county in the Grand Cote Prairie. In 1857
he moved to Four Mile Prairie and iu 1865 to Six Mile,
and there still resides. He has devoted his whole life to
farming and stock raising. When the Mexican «ar broke
out, he enlisted in Company K of the 2d Ills. Vols. com.
manded by Col. \' . H. Bissell, and was orderly i-ergeant of
his company He took part in the battle of Buena Vista
and escaped without a wound. He marri' d Mi-s Nancy
Thompson in 1838, who was born in Allen county, Ky.
She died in 1840. He afterward married Eliza Gillespie,
of Perry county. 111. She was a native of Tennessee By
that marriage there were eight children. By the first mar.
riage there was one son, the subject of this sketch. He was
in his infancy wlien the family came to Illinois, and here in
Perry county he grew to manhood and received his educa-
tion in the public schools. He remained at home at work
on the farm until 1859, when he went to Ttxas, and there
entered Mantua Seminary and remained eighteen months.
When the war of the rebellion broke out he enlisted in Co. K
of the IGth Texas Civalry under Col. George Fitzhugh, and
remained iu the service two years when he was captured by
the Union forces when General Banks was on his disastrous
Red River expedition. He had become dissatisfied with the
cause of the South, and therefore very promptly took the
oath of allegiance and came north to his home, and here
taught sch )ol until 1870, when he concluded to adopt medi-
cine as the bus ness of his life, and with that idea in view
entered the office of Dr. C. C. Swanwick, of Jackson county,
Illinois, and remained until the death of the doctor ; then
studied with Dr. Jones, of Pinckneyville. In the winter of
1874-75 he entered the Missouri Medical College at St
Louis and took two full courses, and graduated from that
institution iu the spring of 187t) with the degree of M. D.
He commenced the practice in Tamaroa, and by his close
attention to business and uniform success in the treatment of
his patients, soon built up a lucrative practice. It is hardly
necessary to say that Dr. Williams belongs to the regular
school of medicine and is also progressive, as is indicated by
his membership in the Medical Societies of Southern Illinois,
which have for their object the mutual advancement of its
members. On the 14th of March, 1875, he was united in
marriage to Mrs. Sarah Spiller nci' Patrick, daughter of Rev.
Hillary Patrick. She is a native of Tennessee. She had
two children by her former marriage, whose names are
George C. and Maud Spiller. By the latter union there is
one son named Homer Williams. Dr. Williams is a mem-
ber of the ancient and honorable order of Masonry, and
holds his membership with Tamaroa Lodge. Both he and
366
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
his wife are metubers of the Preib3-terian church. In 1879
he formed a partnership with C. L Willuughby in the drug-
busiuess, which firm still continues.
FREDERICK WILLIAMS
The Williams family on the paternal side is of Welsh
descent. Frederick Williams, the grandfather, was born in
South Carolina, and was a soldier in the Revolutionary war.
He died in that State March 18th, 1808; his sou, William
Willianis, was born in South Carolina in 1773, and there
married .Martha Wells and in 1807 removed to Christian
county, Kentucky, and there died in 18-59 His wife sur-
vived him and died in 1876, aged ninety-one years. There
were eleven children by that union, five of whom are still
living ; Frederick, the subject of this sketch, is third iu the
family; he was born in Christian county, Ky. Mar. 18, 1808.
At the age of nineteen, which was in 1827, he came to Perry
county, Illinois to look after and improve lands that his father
had entered here .some years before; liking the count);, he
remained here, built a log cabin, fenced the farm and im-
proved it. For the first five years he kept " Bachelor's
Hall," then in 1833 married. In 1841 he removed to
Pinckneyville and engaged in general merchandising, but
money being scarce, business was unprofitable and he aban-
doned it and went back to farming and stock-raising. In
1844 he removed to the place where he now lives. Iu 1855 he
built his present large and commodious dwellingl o ise, and
there he has lived in ease and comfort since that time On the
17th of January 1833, he married Miss Bexey Orton, who
was born in Orange county, Indiana, January 15th, 1815.
Her parents, Johnzie and Rachael (Campbell) Orton, were
natives of North Carolina and came to Perry county in 1832.
There have been born to Mr. and Mrs. Williams eight chil-
dren, six of whom are living Their names in the order of
their birlh are: Cordelia M., Christopher C, Desdemona
M , Clariuda I. C, Frankliu L. and Frederick A. Williams.
Cordelia M , wife of Dr. T. A Lovelady ; they have sevi n
children named : Isabel H., Desdemona Aneadna, Otis E.,
Oscar M , Thomas F., Luella C and Ethel Bexey. Chris-
topher C. married Miss M. E. Ferguson ; they have five
children whose names are: Lillie M., Minna B., Frederick
L. D., Lsnora and Bauton. Desdemona M. is the wife of
John E. Campbell, now a resident of Elk county, Kansas;
they have seven children whose names are: Frederick A.,
Benjamin F. E., Mabel E., Charles W., Edith L., Daisy
M B and Edward E. Clarinda I. C. married Dr. T. C.
McKinney. who is a resident of Carbondale, Illinois ; they
have two children named: Auguste B. and Daisy. Frank-
lin L married Miss Alice L. Bayliss; they have three chil-
dren whose names are: Roger Roscoe, Emil and Lois.
Frederick A. married Miss Amelia A. White; they have one
child whose name is Auguste Minnie Williams. Both Mr.
and Mrs. Williams are members of the Christian Church.
Mr. Williams is a Republican in politics; he was originally
an Old Line Whig, and is a devoted f lUower of Henry Clay.
He and his family were opposed to slavery, and as soon as
the Republican party was organized, and gave evidence of
its hostility to slavery, he joined its ranks and has remained
a member to the present. In the Black Hawk war of 1832,
Mr. Williams volunteered with defence against Black Hawk
and his Indian allies; he was in command under General
Henry, of Illinois. In the late war his son Christopher C.
was a soldier, and enlisted for three years in Co. F of the
13th Illinois Cavalry; he served nearly one year, when he
was honorably discharged on account of physical disability.
This in brief is a hi-tory of Mr. Williams. His family have
been the pioneers of two Siates, Kentucky and Illinois. He
has lived here for over half a century and has lived to see
his county and State grow from insignificance to the third
State in the great union of States, and his county to that im-
portance and wealth that places it in the lead of many of
its contemporaries. Mr. Williams is well advanced in
years, but yet he gives indications of many years of usefulness.
JOSEPH B. CURLEE.
The subject of this sketch is a representative of one of
the oldest fimiiies in this section of the country. His grand-
father, Ervin Curlte, was a native of North Carolina. He
moved from Tennessee, and from there to Illinois, and set-
tled in Fayette county in 1829. He was a soldier of the
war of 1812. He married a Gilbert. She died in Tennessee
iu 1812. He subsequently married Nancv Ferrill, who died
in 1846. Of that union was Nathan Gilbert Curlee, who
was born in North Carolina Feb. 2, 1805, and was the oldest
son. He came to Illinois in 1828. The family stopped in
Washington county, near Nashville, and made one crop, and
then came to Perry county, settling on section 17, in town
4, range 1, on land that he had tntered and improved, and
there remained until his death, which occurred January 15,
1858. He was a farmer by occupation, and also kept a
country store which in the early history of the State was one
of the landmarks in that section of the country. Mr.
Curlee was raised a Baptist, but later in life professed reli-
gion and joined the M. E. Church, and was regularly or-
dained a minister in that Christian organization. He was
possessed of good business tact and qualifications, and accu-
mulated property rapidly ; but he was very charitable and
benevolent in his disposition, and gave much of his wealth
away. He was the friend of the poor, and no one ever came
to his door soliciting charity or help who went away empty-
handed.
He married Mary King, who was born in Virginia, No-
vember 28th, ISO 3. The marriage occurred in 1824. She
died December 16th, 1867. By that union there were seven
children, two of whom died in their tenth year, and five
grew to maturity, and two are yet living, viz : Zebedee P.
and Joseph B. The latter was born June 25th, 18^8, on the
section where his father settled when he first came to Perry
county. There he grew to manhood, and there he has made
his home to the present. He received a fair English edu-
cation in the public schools of his neighborhood, which was
further improved by one year at the Wesleyan University
at Bloomingtou, Illinois. In 1862 he engaged in the mer-
cantile business in Tamaroa for one year, and then returned
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
367
to his farm, cultivated it, and engaged in stnck-liuying and
trading. In April, 1864, during the ribellion, he entered
in Cii " D' of tiie 136th Regt Illinois Vol. Infantry, under
what was known as the '• Emergency Call," and remained
in tlie service until October of the same year. He was First
Lieutenant of the company. On the 14th of March, 1861, he
was united in marriage to ^liss Marjiaret B. Spencer, who
was born in Wa.-hington county, Illinois, July 'list, 1842.
She is the daughter of Daniel R. and Lavinia Spei.ctr. Her
mother was a native of Tennessee and her father of Vermont.
By the marriage of Mr. and Mrs Curlee there are two chil-
dren livins: ; one died in infancy. The names of those living
are, Clyde and John Linder Curlee. Himself and wife are
members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Curlee is an active
member, but is particularly known in the county and in fact
in the State for his labors and efforts in behalf of Sunday-
schools and their work. He is president of the Sunday
school organization of the county, and by his uncea^irg-
labors it has been brought up to as high a .standard as any
in the Slate. Politically, he ca.'t his first vote for Stephen
A. Douglas in 1860, but in all subsequent elections has vo'.ed
the republican ticket. He is a pronounctd prohibitionist,
and believes that the licensing of saloons is an offense against
good morals and the best interests of society. Mr. Cuilee
has iidierited many of the characteristics of his fther.
Among others may be mentioned his liberality. His brother
Zibedee, and brothtr-inlaw. Rev D. W. Phillips, budt the
church that stands near Mr. Curlee's resdei.ce. Zelxdee is
an older brother, and was born Nov. 27, 18o() ; married, Jan.
8ih, 1»52. His wife was Miss Mary A. Anderson. They
have five children living. His sister Mary Susau was born
June 4. 1844, and died Jan. 2, 1S68. She was the wife of
Rev. D W. Phillips, presiilent of McKendree College. One
child was born lo them named Mary Phillips.
c<:^SgS^^^lK^
PARADISE.
PERRY COUNTY.
j,.|, ,1 YING in the eastern part of the county, this pre-
'====^^^' cinct is bounded on the north by Tamaroa, on
the east by Franklin county and the Little
Muddy river, and on the so'ith and west by Du
Quoin precinct and Recs' creek It was estab
lished, April 21, 1870. Most of the territory
had been a part of Du Quoin, a small portion
having belonged to Tamaroa. The first voting place was at
the house of C. C. Provast. The precinct received its name
from P.ira'lise Prairie, a large part of which it includes.
The prairie is so called fror.i an expression dicited by its
extreme beauty, from the lips of one Wells. Looking one
day, with some companions, from an eminence over it, in its
flowing gayety, he e.xclaimed, " This is as near Paradise as
I ever expect lo get !' The surface, especially in the centre
part, is level. On the east side, along the Little Muddy, it
is undulating and somewhat rough, though the toil of this
part is richer than on the west, along Rees' creek, where the
surface is less brokui. The principal farming di^trict is the
central, prairie portion. The timber, which is quite abund-
ant, and which consists mainly of the different varieties of
oak and hickory, is confined principally to belta, extending
along the Little Muddy and Rees' creek. Some young forests
had grown up, within the recollection of the oldest settlers.
The soil is quite productive and easily worked. Wheat is
principally cultivated, though the other cereals and fruits
and berries receive a share of attention. Lime-stone rock,
suitable for building purposes, abounds along Rees' creek,
although little attention has yet been paid to (juarrying.
Tne earliest permanent settlement in what is now Paradise
Precinct was made in the year 1827. The earliest sittler
was probably David Dial, who came from Tennessee with his
wife and six children, two boys and four girls. He squatted
and built a cal'in on sec. 2H, in the edge of the timber, and
afterward entered laud in section 21, purchasing the improve-
ments of David Rees, who had there erected a ronnd-log
cabin. The two sons and two of the daughters are dead.
The others live in Franklin county, Illinois.
William Jones, with his wife and several children, came
from Tenne.'.see and first settled in what is now Pinckneyville
precinct About the year 1827 he moved into Paradise and
first occupied a small cabin that had been built by Alexander
Clark, who had come from Lost Prairie, whither he re-
turned after a short stay. Jones' permanent settlement was
in section 19 or 20, township o, range 1, west- Some of his
children, two or three of whom were born here, are now
living. One of them, Elizabeth, is the wife of Josiah Ilarriss.
James Jones, a brother of William, with a wife and several
children, came from Tennessee in 1^-27 or 1828. John M.
Hagganl, also from Tennessee came along with William Jones
for the purpose of prospecting. After a short stay he re"
turued for his wife and child whom he had left behind him.
He built a pole cabin in section 34, but remained in the
precinct only a short time and then went to Holt's Prairie,
where he still lives. Kext in order, about the year 1828,
came from Bedford county, Tennessee, three brothers, Ed-
ward, Minyard, and Robert Gilliam. They all brought
families with them, consisting of their wives and the children
SG8
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
of Edward and Miiiyard. Edward settled the N. W. 1 of
the 8. W. I of section 21,Minyard the N. E. one-fourth of the
N. \V. i of section -8, and Robert in section 3t. Each
erected a cabin on his settlement. Afterward ihey all entered
land in Gilliam Prairie, in the northern part of the precinct.
Robert, who never had any children, went to Texas where
he died. Edward and Minyard died in the precincts. The
widow of the latter is still living. Thomas Jones arrived in
the settlement, from Tennessee, in the -spring of 18:^11, and
squatted in section o3. He and his family and West Eaton
and family came to the territory together in an ox-wagon-
The lattir setthd first in Eaton's Prairie, whence he moved
to Nine Mile, and came thence to the precincts about 183:2,
and settled in section 28, where he now lives
Johnson Harriss was a native of Virginia. He went to
North Carolina and thence to South Carolina, where he
married Anna Garrett. He then moved to Bedford county,
Tennessee, where he lived as a farmer about twelve years
He then, in 1829 brought his family, consisting of his wile
and children, three sons and three daughters, to Illinois, and
settled on section 28. Here he built a clapboard-covered
log cabin which is still standing on the old place, doing duty
as a stable. He had two sons and four daughters married
before he came to the precinct. Jordan, one of the married
sous and his family, came with his father in the ox-cart,
which was the mode of conveyance. He stopped in the pre-
cinct only a little while, and then went to Holt's Prairie,
where he lived till a short time before his death which oc-
curred in Du Quoin. Polly, while yet in Tennessee, mar-
ried John Gilliam, brother of Robert, Edward and Minyard.
John immigrated in 1829, and settled in section 28, where
he built a cabin and lived two or three years. He then
moved to Gilliam's Prairie, where he remained for a period
of time, and then weut to Fnnklin County and there died.
Nancy, wife of Minyard Giliiam, and Sally, that of Labau
G. Jones, had preceded their father to the prtcinct, where
Nancy still lives. Laban G. Jones, whose wife is now dead,
settled on section 33, and after a residence in the territory
of the precinct for about thirty-five years, moved to North
West Missouri. Of the children of Johnson Harriss, there
are still living in the precinct, besides Nancy, John, Kezia
and Hosea. Kezia is the wife of West Eaton. Hosea lives
on the old homestead place. John, who lives on section 28,
came to the precinct as a part of his father's family, at the
age of eighteen. In 1831 he married Cinlhia Wells, daugh-
ter of Elijah Wells who lived in Du Quoin precinct. By htr
he had eleven children, five boys and six girls, of whom
seven are yet living, four in Paradise, two in Du Quoin and
one in Franklin county. His first wife died in 1877. In
1878 he married Mrs. Rebecca Willmore, daughter of Will-
iam Otterson, by whom he had three children, one of whom
is now living. John S. Haggard, from Bedford county,
Tennessee, arrived in the precinct in the winter of 1829 or
30. He brought with him a family, consisting of his wife
and several children, and built a cabin on section 34, where
he finally improved a good farm, and in 1848 died, leaving
a widow who still resides there. Robert Moore, a minister,
came about this time from Hamilton County, and purchased
the improvement of John M- Haggard, in section 34. He
lived here two or three years, and then sold his improvement
to Reuben Kelly who came from Bedford county, Tennessee^
to Perry, in 1829, and to the precinct in 183:!, there purcha-
sing the Haggard improvement, on which he died in 1864.
Isaac McCollum.a Tennesseean, who is now dead, came with
his family to what is now Paradise precinct, in the year
1830. One son, Jonathan, who came with his father from
Tennefsee, at the age of eighteen years, is now living on a
farm adjoining the homestead place. Among the other early
settlers may be mentioned/ the names of John Woodram,
Thomas Goacher, George Young, Aquila Combs and the
brothers, Roben and Wilson Montgomery.
The first binh in the precinct was probably that of Malita
Gilliam. The first graveyard was in section twenty-one.
Here in 1829 were to be seen the graves of several infants.
Who they were tradition does not relate. Ttie first minister
who preached within the limits of the precinct, was John
Woodram, The next was Robert Moore, already mention-
ed. He was of the United Baptist persuasion, as were also
Isaiah Youngblood, Charles Lee, John Browning, and John
Maddox, who may be classed amoung the early preachers.
Pleaching was at first confined to the groves and the houses
of the settlers. It was not until 1842, that the first house of
worship was erected. It is a ''.•ame building belonging to
the regular Baptists, and stands on section twenty-eight.
Prior to 1829 or '30 the children of Paradise attend school
in Du Quoin precinct, when Obediah West was the teacher.
The first school within the precinct was taught about this
time, in section thirty-three, by John S. Haggard. One
Hagaman also taught a school in the precinct in 1830. His
qualifications in orthography and orthoepy seem to have
been quite limited, even for those primitive times, judging
from recollections that yet remain of his laughable mistakes
in those branches of learning. The " g " of " legislator " he
always insisted on pronouncing with the hard sound. Teach-
ing was at first done at the homes of the teachers or in
deserted cabins. No building for school purposes was put
up before 1838. Ihe first teacher in the new school -house was
R. P Paramore. The justices of the prtcinct as a political
organization, were Addison Teel and John Harris, who is
an incumbent. The early physicians were Joseph Brayshaw
who practised in this section of country for a number of
years; Leo T. Hamilton, of Pinckneyville ; Mil on Mulkey,
a botanical doctor, from Franklin county, and Dr. Berklow,
who practiced principally in Nine Mile prairie. The first
post ottice was at a little town, long since extinct, laid out
by Aquila Combs in the southeast part of the precinct, and
called Iowa. Here Combs kept a few articles of merchan-
dise which constituted the first store. About the same time,
Laban G- Jones and Reuben Kelly, kept a small stock of
store goods in a frame building, in section thirty-three. The
first blacksmith-shop in the settlement stood in section
twenty, and was keept by one Rees. N. T. Kelly and J. B.
Haggard were early blacksmiths and wagon wrights. Isaac
McCollum in an early day built a tread-mill for wheat and
corn, on Little Muddy river. This was probably the first
mill within the present limits of Paradise precinct. Other
early mills were the horse-mills of George Young and Leo-
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
360
nard Keeling, and the steam saw and grist mill of Reed and
Wilson. In the days of which we have just been writing —
early yet remembered days — wild game was abundant. TJie
flesh of the deer and of the wild turkey and the product of
the bee-tree, constituted a considerable part of the settler's
living. Among other things that engaged early attention
was the entry of land at the Land oflice, in order that a
greater security of title might be enjoyed, than that possessed
by the mere squatter. August Iflth, 1.S30. Abraham Cok-
enaur entered the W. ^ of the S. W. ] of section 32, eighty
acres. August 13th, 1832, John S. Haggard entered forty
acres, the S. E. } of the S. W. 1 of section 34. January
28th 1833, eighty acres were entered by Reuben Kelly, the
W. ] of the S. Vv. i of section 34. William Eaton, July
14th, 1833, entered the eighty of the E. J of theS. E. J of
section 33. The West eighty acres of the N. W. i was
entered, August llith, 18.34, by Thomas Jones. Van S.
Teague, June 21st, 1832, entered the southwest forty acres
of the N. W. } of section 32.
■^^5^^3^i^^^^-
COULTERVILLE,
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
N the extreme northeastern part of this
' ciiunty is situated the precinct of Coulter-
ville. It occupies the west arm of Grand
Cote prairie, widely known for its beauty
and fertility of soil. The timbered por-
tions are small and lie in the northeast
corner and in the extreme southern part
of the precinct. The streams that flow
through the lands are small, the source of
i^ Mary's river and minor tributaries in
the south. Plumb creek in the west and
Big Muddy iu the north. The greater part of the precinct
lies in T. 4 S. R. 5 W., and five sections are taken from the
northea.st corner of T. 5 S. R. 5 W., which are included in
Coulterville. Wheat and corn are the staple productions.
The shipping facilities are excellent. The Cairo Short Line
Railroad passes through the northern part of the county in
a southeasterly direction through the village of Coulterville,
which is an important shipping point on the line.
E.\RLY SETTI.E.MENTS.
The earliest settler to locate in what is now knnwn as
Coulterville precinct was David Cathcart. He made a trip
to the county in 1818, and selected and entered a tract of
land consisting of 100 acres — the N. W. 1 of section 35, T.
4, R. 5 W., December 3, 1818 — which was entered in the
name of his son, Joseph. Mr. Cathcart was a native of
Ireland, and came here from South Carolina early in the
spring of 1819. He built his rude log cabin in the edge of
the timber, near the present residence of Mrs. John Edgar,
his grand-daughter He brought his family with him. His
children were : Mary, who married James Munford ;
Rosanna, who became the wifeof William Campbell in South
Carolina; Elizabeth married William Stormont, and one
son, Joseph. They are all deceased. Joseph reared a
family, of whom Robert, Francis, Margaret, the wife of
William Woodside, and Agnes, the wife of John Edgar, are
47
living in the vicinity. Mr. Cathcart was a weaver by trade,
and followed that occupation in the Carolinas. He im-
proved a good farm, where he died about 1845, over 90
3'ears of age. William Campbell, his son in law, who came
with the family to Illinois in 1819, located about a mile
south of Mr. Cathcart, in section 2, of T. 5, R. 5, where he
made a farm and resided until his death. James Munford,
also a son-in-law of Mr. Cathcart, arrived and made a settle-
ment in the same neighborhood, in December, 1819. He
died in January, 1840, at the age of seventy-six years.
Hugh McKelvey, the second pioneer of Coulterville, like
Mr. Cathcart, had visited the county in 1818 and purchased
land. He came in the same spring and about the time of
Mr. Cathcart's arrival, and located on section 2(i, their
cabins being about one mile distant from each other. He
died many years ago at the residence of his daughter in
Washington county.
John Dickey came with James Munford to this county
in December, 1819, and located in the S. W. ', of section 3,,
which tract he entered. He erected a small log cabin, the
only buildings constructed by the pioneers and began cultivat-
ing a form, and spent the remainder of his days on the place.
William Dickey, a justice of the peace in Washington
county, is a son of his, and is the only one of the family now
living. In 1823 Smith and Alexander Dickey, l)rothers of
the above named, came to the county together, and located
in section 28, and both continued to reside on the farms they
firot settled. Smith Dickey reared a large fomily of chil-
dren. John M., Alexander S., James L. and William .).
reside in this precinct. Alexander Dickey was born in
South Carolina in 1795. He married Margaret Hair, who,
together with her brothers, accompanied the Dickeys to the
county. William J., who lives in Kan.sas, and James H.
Dickey, a resident of Sparta, are sons of his. In 1836
Alexander Dickey built a grist mill, propelled by horse
power, and in 1H45 a saw mill was attached and the business
increased. Mr. Dickey also erected in the same year a
370
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
large brick house, which largely added to the already pop-
ular locality. He died in Sparta about 1873.
The following are a few of the earliest land entries made
in this precinct It will be observed that they all became
actual settlers on the land they purchased :
Hugh McKelvey entered September 19th, 1818, the N.
W. i of section twenty-six, 160 acres ; same day John
McDiil entered N. W. i of section, twenty-two, 160 acres;
April 30th, 1819, Joseph Carthcart entered N. W. } section
thirty-five, 160 acres; December 3d, 1818, James Muuford
entered the S. E. i of section (3) T. 5 S. R. 5 W. of 3 P.
M., 160 acres ; December 31st, 1819, John Dickey Jr.,
entered the S. W. i of same section, township and range,
160 acres ; January 24th, 1820, William Campbell entered
the W. i of the N. E. J section two, 75tV5 acres, T. 5, R. 5
W. of 3rd P. M.
James Dickey, brother of those already mentioned, ar-
rived here in the spring of 1824, and made the first settle-
ment in the northern part of the precinct. He located on
section eleven, where he made a fine farm, reared a family
of respectable children, and ended his days, September lst7
1881. The wife of James East, and Harriett and Caroline,
and the wife of Christopher Kean are daughters of James
Dickey, living.
It was about the same date that James Coulter, the
founder of Coulterville, arrived and made a settlement on
the hill, on the present site of the village. Coulter was a
very industrious man, and became one of the most popular
and enterprising citizens of this part of the county. He
remained here actively engaged in building up the town,
until a few years ago, when, having met with reverses, he
turned his eye westward to the fields of gold, whither he
went in search of a fortune. He died soon afterward in
Colorado. Rev. David Coulter, a minister residing in
Kansas, Sarah and Catharine B., single, in Colorado, the
wife of Charles Preston, in Cutler, and the wife of R. B.
Elliott, residing in Coulterville, are those of his family now
living. William Jamison, came in 1821), and settled in
section 33 of T. 4, R. 5, where he followed the occupation
of farming until his death. William W., and Alexander
at Coulterville, and Joseph residing on the old place are
sons of his. John G. Miller, an old and respected citizen
of the village, is a son of Andrew Miller, a Scotchman who
settled at Eden in 1827.
The Woodsides are also early arrivals. They were South
Carolinians. Samuel Woodside, came with his family in
1829, and took up his residence south of Coulterville, and
died there. Robert H., John J., Samuel, William and
James are sons of his living in the vicinity. James Wood-
side, brother of the above named, did not arrive until 1831,
and remained but a short time in the neighborhood. He
died in Perry county in 1833. James Wylie, one of the
oldest citizens of the precinct, resides on section 15. He is
of the Wylie family who settled and originated the town of
Eden, and were among the first pioneers in this part of the
county. The pioneers of this precinct were of an intelli-
gent and hard working class, and nearly all who located
here at an early day became permanent settlers, and many
of the descendants of these old families are among the best
citizens of to day. They early evinced an interest in the
cause of education and religion, and schools and churches
were early established. A school was taught in a small
log cabin, situated on the N. E. } of section 27 as early as
the winter of 1828-'29, by George Campbell. Henry L.
McGuire and Benjamin Wham were among the first
teachers.
We have named a few of the very earliest settlers in this
precinct. It would be impossible to mention them all, at
this late date.
About 1830, there began a steady increase in the popu-
lation ; immigrants came pouring in from every direction ;
and the territory soon contained a large number of inhabi-
tants. A few years later and the log cabin was replaced
with fine frame and brick structures, and the scene was
soon changed from a wilderness to a beautiful and highly
cultivated region. In the census of 1880, Coulterville and
Tilden precincts were taken together and gave a population
of 1,998 souls.
VILLAGE OF COULTERVILLE.
This village was laid out on the S. E i of the S. W. i of
section 13 in the spring of 1851, by James Coulter, and
named by him Grand Cote, from the prairie on which it is
situated. It was surveyed and platted by special deputy E.
Leavenworth, and recorded in the office of the circuit clerk
March 21, 1851. The name Grand Cote, was subsequently
changed to Coulterville, in honor of the original proprietor,
James Coulter. The beautiful location, fertility of soil and
the advantages for agriculture soon attracted attention.
The year following Henry Taylor erected a building and be-
gan the mercantile business. His store consisted of a small
stock of general goods, which were the first sold in the place.
The residence of James Coulter was situated on the original
site of the village. His first home was a log cabin. He
afterward erected a stone house, on the hill, which still
stands, one of the old landmarks of the place. A church
was also built by the Reformed 0. S. Presbyterian denomi-
nation, prior to or about the time of the- laying out of the
town. It was a small frame structure and was the first
chiirch in the village. A log school-house was also erected
about the same time. James Thompson opened the next
store, and John Miller was the first blacksmith. In 1854,
John J. Sloan built a blacksmith shop on section 10, and a
short time afterward moved with his family into the village
and opened a shop. Thomas McNeal erected and conducted
the first hotel. The building is still standing on Chestnut,
between 4th and 5th streets. He also erected a shop and
carried on blacksmithing on the corner just east of his
residence. We quote the following from an article written
by Hon. John R. McFie, and published in- the Headlight.
" To show the disposition of the boys of that early day, it is
but necessary to refer to one hallow-eve night. The boys
took a dead hog, mounted the shop with it and threw it
down the chimney. When fire was started the next morn-
ing, the chimney refused to draw, which led to the dis-
covery of the hog. In attempting to remove it, it was found
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
371
that it had stiffened during the night, and would neither go
up or down, and the chimney had to be torn open to remove
the animal."
The post office was established here about 1854, and
Henry Taylor was appointed the first post master. Dr.
Hiram H. Rice was the earliest resident physician locating
here in 1855. In 185G, he and a young man studying medi-
cine with him opened a drug store. Esquire James H.
Pinkerton was the earliest justice of the peace, and the first
case was the noted (Christina Dixon case, so familiar to the
older citizens. In 1858, A. M. Thompson erected a saw
mill on the lot where A. R. Smith's mill now stands, on the
south side of Chestnut street. It was in operation about
three years. It was in the same year that Esq. James H. Pink-
erton and Charley Coder began making brick where Adam
Miller's machine shop now stands. In 1859, the village
contained two churches, two stores, one wagon shop, three
blacksmith shops, one merchant mill, one saw mill, one shoe
shop, one drug store, three carpenter shops, one tin shop,
one saddlery, two hotels, one brick yard, one brick school-
house and two physicians. At that time there was consid-
erable building being done ; several stores and residences
were in course of erection.
Id the spring of 1860 there occurred a severe storm in
this locality, and in its passage over the village it unroofed
the brick mill, unroofed and blew in the west gable of the
brick school-house and also demolished the stone building of
Dickey and Jamison, besides doing .considerable damage to
other buildings, residences and all kinds of property. Tiie
fences in the vicinity were scattered in every direction.
Early schools were held in the basement of the R. P. Church
after its erection until 1857, when R. B. Elliott and John
Robinson built the old brick school. It stood on the same
spot where the present one was erected. Among the early
teachers were Margaret Guitillius, George McKay, Profes-
sor Sweazy, Frank Anderson and H. Coulter. The present
school-house is a beautiful brick building, two stories high,
and contains four rooms. The school is graded, employing
four teachers. There are at present four churches in the
village — United Presbyterian, O. S. Reformed Presbyterian,
N. S. Reformed Presbyterian, and Methodist Episcopal.
Coiilterrillc Academy. — This institution was established in
1871. The building is a neat frame, containing two rooms.
There are two courses, classical and normal. It is now under
the professorship of R G Ramsay. It is controlled by a
board of managers, elected by the stockholders.. The acade-
my is well patronized by the citizens.
Incorporation. — There have existed at least two incorpor-
ating organizations, the first being from some cause illegal.
At an election held July 15, 1874, the question whether the
place should be reorganized and incorporated under the gen-
eral law as a village was carried. It is controlled by a
board of trustees elected each year as provided by law. The
present board are J. Q. A. Nisbet, president ; William Hood>
James M. Jones, W. T. Craig, J- S. Milligan and John Os-
born. S, M. East, clerk ; William Orr, treasurer ; John
Dixon, street commissioner; William McDill, constable;
Nathaniel Childs, Police Magistrate.
Coullerville Cemetery is situated one mile north of the vil.
lage, and contains two acres nicely laid off and set with or-
namental trees. It is managed by a board of trustees.
Elliott's Mill was erected in 1877, and began operation in
November of the same year. It is frame, constructed in
elevator style, occupying 'llOx.30 feet on the ground. It
contains three run of buhrs and two sets of rolls, and has a
capacity of 100 barrels in twenty-four hours. Elliott's Best
and Champion are the brands manufactured. There is an
elevator in connection with the mill operated by steam
power. A cooper shop is also a part of the establishment,
and manufacture the barrels for shipment. R. B. Elliott is
owner and proprietor.
Coulterville Mill was erected by Elliott and Jamison in
180.3. It is a frame, three stories high, 40x40 feet, steam
power, now owned and operated by A. K. Smith, who pur.
chased it in April, 1881. It has three run of buhrs with a
capacity of 100 barrels in twenty-four hours. Process Strait
and White Rose Patent are the brands manufactured. It
has a cooper shop in connection. These are both custom mills.
Coulterville Coal Company. — This shaft was sunk in 1872,
by Kennedy and Jones. It is three hundred feet to the sur-
face of the coal. The vein will average seven feet, and is
an excellent quality of coal. The mine is dry, and the coal
is easily worked. It is operated by steam power, and when
working its full capacity, can raise and load twenty cars per
day. Work from sixty to eighty men. James M. Jones
and J. Q. A. Ni-bet, are the proprietors and operators.
Coulterville Foumlry and Machine Shops were established
in LS77 by Miller & Demier, and are now owned and oper-
ated by Adam Miller. All kinds of repairing in iron and
castings is executed with neatness and despatch.
The Hotel Elliott. — This is one of the ornaments of the
village. It is situated just opposite the depot, and the
grounds comprise nine acres, two of which are taken up with
"East Lake." Tiie grounds are laid out in park-like style,
with numerous walks. A large number of shade trees and
ornamental trees, flower beds, mounds, vases, fountains,
statuary, rustic seats, summer-houses, etc, are appropriately
and tastefully arranged. There is also a quarter-mile race
course, with a band stand in the center. The lake is sup-
plied with fish, and a number of small boats fir the pleasure
of the guests. There is a mineral spring near the house, the
water of which is an excellent cure for rheumatic, dyspep-
tic, kidney and liver diseases. In connection with the spring
is a well-arranged bath house, where the guests are accom-
modated with either hot or cold sulphur baths. The location
is beautiful and healthful. In the warmest days of sum-
mer there is always a good breeze passing over the Grand
Cote prairie. The place is fast becoming a favored summer
resort. Mr. Michael Adami is the proprietor.
PKIiSENT BUSINESS — TRADE OF 1882
Physicians — C'. J. Childs, R. S. Edgar, A. R. Leeper,
Andrew Marlow.
General Merchandise. — W. J. Crawford, W. W. Jamison,
Woodside & Wiseley.
Dry Goods and Notions — John Osborn.
372
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Drugs, Books and Stationery. — Edgar & East, J. S. Mil-
ligan.
Hardware, Stoves and Tinware. — Thomas Crawford, J. M.
Elliott.
Groceries. — Nathaniel Childs, J. B. Morrow.
Clothing, — Stewart & Armstrong.
Books, Stationery, Jewelry and Postmaster.— \Y . A. Milligan.
Harness Store. — William Orr & Co.
Shoe Stores —Christ. Emig, James Millikin.
Jewelry.— WiWium Warnock, Thomas Orr.
lAvery Stables. James W. Gillespie, Wiseley Bros
Furniture. — Burns & Stewart.
Lumber Yard and Carpenter S/iop.— Wiseley & Lyle.
Newspapers.—" Coulterville Headlight," Ashwood & Mar-
low, editors ; " Coulterville Clipper," William Beattie, editor.
Dentist— S. H. Wirtz.
Brick Fard.— Robert McAfee.
Painter. — John Saffer.
Carpenter Shops. — J. P. Williamson, J. P. Patterson, James
Wylie.
Insurance Agents.— S. M. East, J. A. Nisbet, Anthony
Steele.
Ifo/efe.— Hotel Elliott, M. Adarai, proprietor ; Coulterville
House, John Dixon, proprietor; City Hotel, Mrs. Harben,
proprietress; Stranger's Home, I. N. McCollum, proprietor.
Wagon 3Iakers. — M. G. Treffls, A. W. Rideway.
Blacksmith /SAojo.s.— William Craig, Adam Miller.
Butchers.— J. C. McKelvey, S. B. Brown.
Restaurants and Bakery.— Ma.tthevi Wilson, John Rich-
mond, Mariah Anderson.
Cigars and Confectionery.— Sa.mue\ Williamson.
Millinery.-ADna, McKelvey, Harmau McLaughlin.
Dressmakers. — Mrs. Mason, Mrs Elder, Sarah A. Pettigrew.
Barbers — John Cjstley, Samuel Tabor.
Justices. — David Munfbrd, Anthony Steele.
Constables. — Rufus East, Jesse McBride.
BIOGRAPHIES
MESSRS. ASHWOOD & MARLOW.
These young men are the proprietors and editors of the
Coulterville Headlight, a paper that displays energy and
good practical management on their part. J. W. Ashwood
is a native of Allegheny county, Pennsylvania, where he
was born in March, 1861. He received his education in the
schools of Pennsylvania and Kansas. Id Kansas he gradu-
ated from Winchester Academy. In 1880 he came to Ran-
dolph county and commenced teaching in Jordan's Grove
school, a position he has since retained, a compliment to his
teaching ability. In connection with Mr. Marlow he bought
the Headlight March 1st, 1882.
Alexander H. Marlow is a native of Tennessee, from which
State he removed with his father's family and settled in Me-
tropolis, Massac county, Illinois, in 1870. In 1871 he entered
the office of the Metropolis Weekly Times to learn the prin-
ter's trade. Here he remained three years. In 1875 he be-
came foreman of the Gibson Courier, and in 1879 he took
charge of the Clay County Gazette, published at Flora,
Illinois, at which place he was honored with the presidency
of the National Christian Temperance Union, with a mem-
bership of eight hundred. In December, 1880, he became
foreman in the office of the Headlight, and remained in that
position until the time of the purchase of the paper. He was
united in marriage to Miss Anna M. Woodside, a native of
Pittsburg, Pa., a few months since.
Of both members of this firm it may be said they are men
of excellent habits, good citizens, and are highly respected
by all who know them.
WISELY BROTHERS.
The energetic liverymen of Coulterville are of Irish ex-
traction, their father, Peter Wisely, having been born in
county Armagh, Ireland, May 6, 1806, and their mother,
whose maiden name was Sarah Lindsay, in county Derry,
August 22, 1808, same country. Peter Wisely came to
America, landing in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, in Septem-
ber, 1828, and in 1831, came to Washington county, Illinois,
thence to Randolph in 1852, where he died April 25, 1861.
Of the brothers, J. L. was born August 15, 1831, in Frank,
lin county, Pennsylvania, and Alex, in Washington county,
Illinois, February 17, 1847. Brought up as farmers' sons
inured to toil, they obtained fair knowledge of books by
attendance at school during the winter months. Both have
forsaken farming for other pursuits. They jointly own the
livery stable, which, under their management, is proving
profitable. They are held in high repute as citizens, being
active in prosecuting whatever is calculated to promote the
public welfare.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
373
tz^i ,^ ^,
The present able representative from Randolph county
in the State Legislature, boasts of being of Scotch descent,
his parents having both been born in the land of the high-
lands. His father, John, and his mother, whose maiden
name was Elizabeth Borland, were married in the country (f
their nativity, and had seven children before embarking for
this country, where they arrived in 1845. They came by
way of the lakes, and touched first at Chicago, and then
made their way to southern Illinoi.s, and settled in Wash-
ington county. After a residence there of some five years
came to this county and located near Coulterville. Mr.
McFie received in Scotland a finished education, and fol-
lowed teaching several years before coming to this country,
and also a number of 3'ears after becoming a citizen of
Illinois. He died at his residence in Coulterville, Augnst
7th, 1862, after a lingering illness of four years. He was a
devout member of the Reformed Presbyterian Church. He
possessed fine natural abilities, and bore an untarnished
reputation. Two children were added to the family circle
after coming to this country, John R. and Elizabeth.
William, the only other surviving member, lives at present
in Colorado. Both these sons served in the Union Army
during the late rebellion. William volunteered in 1861,
and was in the army three years. John enlisted in 1864,
and served until the close of the war. He volunteered in
Co. E., .30th III. Infantry, and was made regimental P. M.
He was with Sherman in his march to the sea.
Mr. McFie's early inclinations led him to adopt the law
as a profession, and he commenced a course of legal reading
at the age of twenty-two, under J. B. Jones, now of Chicago.
He was admitted to the bar in April, 1870. He at once
established a practice in Coulterville, where he has since
resided. He was elected to the State Legislature by a very
flattering majority in 1876 and again in 1880. As a legis-
lator he serves his people faithfully and earnestly, and has
established a reputation for activity and legislative ability
second to none in that body.
He was married to Miss Mary B. Steele, a lady of fine
accomplishments, October 9, 1S76, at the residence of her
parents in Coulterville. They made a bridal tour to the
great centennial exposition at Philadelphia. Mrs. McFie's
father was Matthew .Steele, a citizen for many years of St.
Louis, and latterly of Coulterville.
BBEWERVILLE
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
c\)"f REWERVILLE lies in the western part of the
county, and the precinct received its name
from the little town of Brewerville, situated
in township five, range nine. Its formation
and established boundaries are of recent date,
and it constitutes a part of four congressional
townships as follows: townships five and six
ranges eight and nine.
It is bounded on the north by Ruma and
Evansville precincts, on the east by Kaskaskia and Kaskas-
kia river, south by the Mississippi and Kaskaskia rivers
and west by Prairie du Rocher. The surface is much
broken, after leaving the American Bottom, and the blufl^s
rise to an altitude of several hundred feet. About one half
of the precinct is included in the bottom, which constitute
some of the richest farming land in the West. Large groves
of pecan trees still exist, and are made useful for their
bountiful supply of nuts. This soil is better adapted to the
culture of corn than the uplands, though much excellent
wheat is raised. After reaching the bluff, wheat becomes
the principal crop. In an early day the upland was covered
with a heavy growth of timber. Large forests of timber yet
remain, but it is mainly of a later growth. An early settler
pointed out to the writer, trees that were a foot and a half
in diameter that had grown since his boyhood, and stated
that prior to their growth the wild grass was growing there
six feet in height. But a small portion is sectionized, hav-
ing been early settled by the French, and they obtained
grants of various sizes and shapes, some of which were but
one arpent wide, and extended from the river to the bluff.
Big creek extends through the central eastern portion of
the precinct, and discharges its waters into the Kaskaskia.
The population is a mixture of English, German and French
nationalities. The district is sparsely settled, containing
only about one hundred and fifty votes.
EARLY SETTLEMENTS.
As above stated the first tillers of the soil were the French.
They owned their arpents of land in the bottom, but lived in
Kaskaskia or Prairie du Rocher for many years after
selecting and cultivating their lands. This was as early as
1750, or before.
The first English settlement was made in 1806, by Dr.
George Fisher. He came from Virginia in 1798, and first
located in Kaskaskia, where he resided for eight years. He
then moved with his fiimily and settled at the foot of the
bluflfin survey 360 about four miles south east of Brewer-
ville on the land now owned by the heirs of Daniel Willis.
374
He became an influential man in his community. When
the Indiana Territory was organized, he was appointed
Sheriff of Randolph county. Upon the organization of Illi-
nois Territory, he was elected a member of the first General
Assembly, and from his popularity was chosen speaker of
the Lower House. On the admission of the state into the
Union, he was chosen a member of the Constitutional Con-
vention which framed the first Constitution of the State. He
died on the old farm at the foot of the bluff" in 1820. This
part of the precinct is yet known as the " Dr. Fisher settle-
ment." He had but one son, John who cultivated a farm
on the west side of the Kaskaskia, near the shoal. He
subsequently emigrated to Arkansas.
Ezra Owens and Thomas J. V., his son, located in the Dr.
Fisher neighborhood as early as 1809. Mr. Owens became
quite a prominent man in the community. He was chosen
major of the militia, and filled the office with credit to.him-
self and satisfaction to his comrades. His son Thomas was
elected to the office of sheriff", and had the honor of repre-
senting his constituency in the State Legislature.
Ignatius Sprigg was an emigrant from Maryland, and
located in the Menard Survey, on what is known as the
Rerior farm. This was in 1817. He had a wife and four
children, William, Joseph, James D., and Margery A. He
was twice married, and two children were born from the
second marriage.
Mr. Sprigg was a high-minded man, and became one of
the leading spirits of the pioneer times. He filled the re-
sponsible office of Treasurer, and afterwards held the office
of Sheriflf for a period of ten years. He moved with his
family to the state of Arkansas in about 1865, where he
died. One of his daughters, Margery A., wife of Thomas
Blais, resides in Prairie du Rocher.
Another early seitler was James Mudd, a native of Mary-
land. His father and family moved to Kentucky in an
early day, where James grew to manhood and married Amelia
O'Harra. In the winter of 1818 he moved to Illinois and locat-
ed at Kaskaskia. The family then consisted of two children,
William and Margaret. A few years later he moved to this
precinct and settled in section 29. Here he commenced the
cultivating of a small farm, and on account of the milling
privileges being so meager, he erected a little horse mill on
his premises. This was the first and only mill within the
boundaries of Brewerville precinct. Mr. M. resided here
until his death, which occurred in 1835.
Benedict Horrell came from Kentucky in 1818, and lo-
cated near the line dividing Brewerville and Ruma. The
family have all passed away. John Brewer was also an
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
375
early settler, locating here not long after the above. He
came from Kentucky and made his settlement in the western
part of the precinct. He had a family of four sons and
three daughters, — -Thomas, John, Felix, Vincent, Susan,
Polly and Sophia. Two children were born after their com-
ing, George and Pius. The family are now all gone from
the county e.Kcept one daughter, who resides on the edge of
Prairie du Rocher Commons. Mr. Brewer died at the old
place about fifteen years ago. Several of the descendants
are residents of the county, and from this family the precinci
received its name.
William Hamilton, Adkins and Signer were among the
pioneers. Hamilton and Adkins were from the South, and
at their coming they located in the Menard Survey. They
resided here until their death.
The custom in the early times of burying the dead was for
each family to have a private place of interment on the
clearing near the settler's cabin. Hence it was not until
about fifty years ago that a public cemetery was established.
This is situated in section 29 near the precinct line between
Brewerville and Ruma. School privileges were very mea-
ger in those times, and the pioneer children had but limited
chances for even a common school education. It was little
more than half a century ago that the first school was taught
in the precinct. The school-house was a small log building
situated in section 28, and among the first teachers was
Henry Noah. The house and teacher passed away years ago.
One of the first to practice medicine in this part of the
county was Dr. Seargeant, who resided in Prairie du Rocher.
He subsequently moved to St. Genevieve, Missouri, where he
died.
TOWN OF BREWERVILLE
Is situated just at the blufi" in the western part of the pre-
cinct, in township 5, range 9, and receives its name in honor
of Thomas Brewer. It is a new town, only having been laid
out but a few years. It was here that the first post-office
and the first goods were sold within the precinct. It con-
tains at this writing one general store, Wallace Snooks pro-
prietor. Mr. S. is also postmaster. Henry Hine conducts
the business of general blacksmithing. This constitutes the
business of the town except one saloon. The facilities for
trade are so meagre, that the most sanguine could scarcely
expect to see it rise to a place of any considerable impor-
tance.
PRAIRIE DU ROCHER.
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
FORT CHARTRES.
(HE settlement of Prairie du Rocher pre-
cinct dates from the building of Fort
Chartres, for many years the seat of mil-
itary and civil authority in Illinois. In
1718 Pierre Duque Boisbriaut, who had
been commissioned commandant at the
Illinois, reached Kaskaskia. Selecting
a site for a military post sixteen miles
above that village, he began the erection
of a fort, which was completed in 1720, and called Fort
Chartres, in compliment, in all probability, to the Due de
Chartres, the son of the regent of France. The French
commandants at the fort, after Boisbriant, were M. De
Siette, Pierre D'Artuguiette, La Buissoniere, Benoist St.
Clair, the Chevalier de Bertel, Chevalier Makarty, Neyon
de Villiers, and St. Auge de Belle Rive.
While in the possession of France, the fort was the basis
of important military operations. D'Artuguiette, in 17.36,
with a force composed of the garrison of the fort, a company
of volunteers from the French villages, and a throng of In-
dian warriors, some of whom had come even from Detroit,
get out to subdue the Chickasaws. He was defeated, and
with the Chevalier Viusenne, whose name is perpetuated in
that of the city by the Wabash, the Jesuit priest Seuat, and
others of his companions, he was burned at the stake. Dur-
ing the French and English war, 1754-59, the fort was the
depot of supplies and place of rendezvous for the united forces
of Illinois and the other provinces of Louisiana. The fort
was originally built of wood, and was soon out of repair. It
was rebuilt of stone by Chevalier de Makarty, who reached
the fort, and assumed command, in the autumn of 1750.
The new fort was completed in 1756. Blocks of stone were
quarried from the bluff, and transported to the fort over the
intervening lake. The place from which they were taken
may yet be seen. The finer stone, with which the gateways
and buildings were faced, were brought from west of the
Mississippi. The French government felt the importance of
the post, and spared no expense to build an impregnable fort-
ress. The minute of its surrender to the British, in 1765,
has been preserved by the French, and in it is a careful de-
scription. The gateway was arched, and fifteen feet in
height. Above the gate was a cut-stone platform, a stone,
stairway of nineteen steps, with a stone balustrade, leading
to it. The walls were stone, and eighteen feet in height.
The four bastions, each with fortj'-eight loop-holes, eight
embrasures, and a sentry box, were constructed of stone.
Within the walls was the great store house, ninety feet long
by thirty wide, two stories high, and gable-roofed ; the guard
house, with a room above for a chapel ; the commandant's
house, with iron gates and stone porch, a coach house and a
376
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
pigeon house adjoining, and a large stone well inside ; the
intendant's house of stone and iron, with a portico, and two
rows of barracks. The magazine was thirty-eight feet long,
thirty-five feet wide, and thirteen feet high above the ground,
with a doorway of cut stone, and two doors, one of wood and
one of iron. The prison had four cells of cut stone, and iron
doors. There was a bake-house with two ovens, and a stone
well in front.
By the treaty of 1763 Fort Chartres passed into the posses-
sion of England. French troops composed the garrison for
more than two years afterward. It was during this period that
Pontiac organized the Indian tsibes from the great lakes to the
mouth of the Mississippi for war against the English. The great
chief himself, at the head of four hundred warriors, appeared
at the fort, and demanded of St. Auge, who had succeeded
De Villiers in command, arms and ammunition with which
to prosecute the war. Major Loftus, with four hundred
British troops, while ascending the Mississippi, in February,
1764, to take possession of the fort, was fired on by the In-
dians, a short distance above New Orleans, and compelled to
return. In the fall of 1765 Captain Sterling, in comm'and
of a hundred men of the forty-second regiment, descended
the Ohio, and reaching Fort Chartres, formally received its
surrender from St. Auge, who, with his garrison of twenty-
one men, retired to St. Louis. Some three months afler his
arrival Captain Sterling died, leaving the office of command,
ant vacant, and the affairs of the Illinois settlements in some
confusion. St. Auge, therefore, returned from St. Louis,
and acted as commandant till another British oflicer could
reach the fort. The garrison was strengthened in December,
1765, by the arrival from Mobile of a detachment of the
thirty-fourth British foot. Colonel E. Cole, a native of Rhode
Island, and an officer in the old French war, who commanded
a regiment under General Wolfe at the siege of Quebec, was
stationed at the fort from 1766 to 1768. Colonel Reed be-
came the commandant, and by his tyrannical and oppressive
measures, gained the hatred of the feeble French settlements.
He was relieved in September, 1768, by Lieutenant-Colonel
Wilkins, the firmer commander of Fort Niagara. He
reached the fort from Philadelphia, by way of Pittsburg, in
command of seven companies of the Eighteenth, or Royal
Irish, regiment. Under his administration, on the sixth of
December, 1768, was convened, at Fort Chartres, the first
court of common law jurisdiction ever held in Illinois.
The fort was abandoned in 1772, and the British garrison
transferred to Fort Gage, at Kaskaskia. When fir^t built
the fort was about one mile distant from the river. In 1724
a great flood swept over the bottom, and washed away a
portion of the bank in front. In 1756 the river bank was
half a mile distant. A few years afterward a sand bar formed
in the river, turning the current against the bank nearest
the fort, which began to wear away rapidly. By 1770 the
river had approached so near as to alarm the officers of the
garrison. In 1772 the river bottom was again inundated,
the flood sweeping away a bastion and part of the western
wall. It was never subsequently occupied by a garrison-
Judge Brackenridge, of the United States Court of the
District of Louisiana, writes in 1817, " Fort de Chartres is a
noble ruin, and is visited by strangers as a great curiosity.
I was one of a party of ladies and gentlemen who ascended
in a barge from St. Genevieve, nine miles below. The out-
ward wall, barracks, and magazine are still standing. There
are a number of cannon lying half buried in the earth with
their trunnions broken ofl^ In visiting the various parts,
we started a flock of wild turkeys, which had concealed
themselves in this hiding place. I remarked a kind of
enclosure near, which, according to tradition, was fitted up
by the officers as a kind of arbor where they could sit and
converse in the heat of the day."
Congress, in 1788, reserved from settlement a tract of
land surrounding the fort, between the old French grants
and the river. In 1849 this was opened to purchaser.?. The
laud was taken up by settlers, a cabin built within the walls,
and the trees cleared away. The visitor of to-day can see
the ridges of earth and stone which mark the location of the
ancient walls. Farm buildings are within the enclosure.
Pierre Laclede, the founder of St. Louis, spent the winter
of 1763-64 at Fort Chartres. His company had been granted
the exclusive privilege of trading with the Indians of the
Missouri, and those west of the Mississippi, above the Missouri.
Leaving New Orleans in August, 1763, we reached St.
Genevieve on the third of November, and from there came
to Fort Chartres. Learning of the cession of Illinois to
England, he decided to establish a fort on the west of the
Mi.ssissipppi. His goods were stored, and his company
quartered, at the fort, until February, 1764, when he began
the settlement of St. Louis.
FORT CHARTRES VILLAGE.
On the building of Fort Chartres a village began to grow
up outside its walls in which the Jesuits built the church of
St. Anne de Fort Chartres. Under the jurisdiction of the
priest of this church, chapels were subsequently erected at
St. Phillips and Prairie du Rocher. After the rebuilding of
the fort in 1756, the village was called New Chartres.
Part of the records of the parish of St. Anne have been pre-
served. The marriage register notes at great length the
weddings of the officers of the fort and of the Royal India
Company, among which are those of Jean la Freile de
Vidrinne, officer of a company, to the daughter of Jean
Francois Liverson de Moncharveaux, a captain in the
French garrison, and of Monsieur Andre Chevalier, royal
solicitor and treasurer for the King at the country of the
Illinois, to Madeline Loisel. In 1764, the village is said to
have contained forty families. The following year witnessed
the surrender of the fort to the English forces. With the
the departure of the French soldiers the village died out.
The inhabitants moved away, many to St. Louis, which had
been founded the year before.
PRAIRIE DU ROCHER.
The date of the founding of the village of Prairie du
Rocher is commonly fixed at 1722, a short time after the
building of Fort Chartres. Its site is in a tract of land granted
by the Royal India Company to Pierre Duque Boisbriant,
the French commandant at the Illinois, and the builder of
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
377
Fort Chartres, and by him transferred to his nephew, Jean
St. Therese Langlois, some time before tlie year 1834 Lan-
giv,U was an officer of the French troops. He divided out
the tract in allotments to actual settlers, reserving certain
seigneurial rights according to the custom of Paris. A tract
of land for Commons was granted to the inhabitants by
Delaloire Flancourt, the civil judge at Fort Chartres, on the
seventh of May, 1743. Among residents of the village in
the latter part of the last century were Etienne Langlois,
Jean Baptiste Blais, Jean Baptiste Barbeau, Antoine Lou-
vier and the La Corapte and other families.
The grant to Boisbriant extended from, the bluffs to the
river. Surveys made in 1737, show that Antonie Bienvenu,
M. Rosally, M. Mails, M. Buchet, Antonie Pie dit Laplume,
Pierre Pille dit Lasond, Francois Bastien, Mathurin Char-
reau, Sanshayrin, Ignaee Legras, Antoine Revierre, Charles
Heneau, Urbain Garvais, Ueni Grude, Charles Gosseaux,
Franfois Corset, Auguste Langlois, Legras dit Groce Jean
and Ambrose Moreau were then among the proprietors.
The lines of this same tract were again run in 1810, the
United States surveyor, William Rector, certifying that the
survey was made by the consent and under the superintend-
ence of many of the citizens of Prairie du Rocher, and that
he found " many antient boundaries" which governed the
surveys.
The ancestor of the Blais family in Prairie du Rocher
was Jean Baptiste Blais, who came from Canada, and was
a leading man in the village. He died, at an extreme old
ace, in the year 1783. He had four sons, Antoine, Joseph,
Charles, and Louis. The two oldest died in 1823, Charles
in 1831, and Louis in early life. Antoine married Terese
De Coche, daughter of Gabriel De Coche, a native of
France, and an old resident of Prairie du Rocher. The
next to the oldest of the children by this marriage, born in
the year 1809, was Antoine Blais, who for a long number of
years has been engaged in the mercantile business in the
village.
The first of the Barbeau family, whose name appears in
connection with the history of Prairie du Rocher, was Jean
Baptiste Barbeau, like the others an emigrant from Canada.
His four sons were Andrew, Antoine, Baptiste, and Henry.
Andrew lived to be a very old man, and died suddenly, while
walking on the bluffs, in the year 1858. Antoine died in
1845. Barbeau creek, below Prairie du Rocher, received
its name from the Barbeau family.
Antoine Louvier was the first of the Louvier family to
settle in the village, the date of his arrival being about the
year 1780. His son, Antoine, became a prominent citizen,
and died in 1836. John N. Louvier, the son of the Antoine
last mentioned, is now the oldest representative of the French
settlers in the vicinity of Prairie du Rocher. He was born
in March, 1802. His mother was Louise Langlois. When
the Fort Chartres reserve was opened for settlement, he
made the first entry of land in the reserve, and on this land
he is now living. His patents bear date of the year 1850.
About one half of the ruins of old Fort Chartres is included
in his farm. The house in which he lives is the oldest on
the reserve, and was built by Ralph McNabb.
48
Major Pierre La Compte was one of the leading men in
the village- He carried on a store for a number of years,
and subsequently moved to St. Genevieve, Mo.
In the last century, Prairie du Rocher was wholly French.
About the year 1800. American settlers began to make their
appearance. Among them was Archibald McNabb, who
came to Illinois from Kentucky. He established a tan yard,
which he carried on till his death in 1821. He had two
brothers, Charles and Alexander. Charles was an un-
married man. He taught school for several years in Prairie
du Rocher, and probably was the teacher of the first Eng-
lish school in the village.
Clement Drury, a native of Maryland, settled in Prairie
du Rocher as early, perhaps, as the year 1795. He built a
horse mill. He died in 1812. His four sons were John,
William, Clement, and Raphael. Henry Conner, who at
one time was a resident of Prairie du Rocher, and the pro-
prietor of a .store, was born in Maryland in 1785 ; in 1795,
went to Kentucky; and in 1807, came to Illinois. He first
settled in Kaskaskia, then moved to a farm in Monroe
county, and in 1812 returned to Randolph county. He was
sheriff of the county from 1814 to 1821, and United States
marshal for some years between 1825 and 1830. Barnet
William, and Edward Conner were his sons.
Henry Ker, who settled in the village in 1816, and prac-
ticed medicine and kept a store, was one of the most remark-
able men who ever resided in the place. He was born in
Boston, Massachusetts, while his parents who were English
people, were temporary residents of that city. The family
moved back to London, where he received his education. In
1808, he began his travels, which lasted for eight years, and
are described in a book which he published at Elizabethtown,
New Jersey, in 1816. From Charleston, South Carolina, he
journeyed through the interior of the country to New Orleans.
In 1809 he visited the West India islands, and experienced
a shipwreck. Soon after coming to Prairie du Rocher, he
married Felicite Fascair. He died at St. Genevieve in 1828.
Of Prairie du Rocher in 1766, Captain Philip Pitman
writes : " It is a small village, consisting of twenty-two dwell-
ing-houses, all of which are inhabited by as many families.
There is a little chapel, formerly a chapel of ease to the
church at Fort Chartres. The inhabitants are very indus-
trious."
Up to 1840 there was only one store in the place. In
Major La Corapte's time this store was kept in a log build-
ing. On the death of La Compte, Henry Conner carried on
a store in a stone house, which stood just below the present
church Antoine Blais opened a store in 1839, and a year
or two after Eli C. Hausborough embarked in the mercan-
tile business. There was a post office from an early date,
but it had been kept continuously. About the year 1825,
Dr. Ichabod Sargent was postmaster. He also acted as jus-
tice of the peace. In early times a horse mill was operated
here by La Compte. It stood on the opposite side of the
street from the church, and subsequently passed into the
possession of Clement Drury. Andrew Barbeau built a
mill two miles below the village in 1824, on Prairie du Ro-
cher creek.
378
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
William Henry began building a water mill on Prairie du
Rocher creek about the year 1833, but the project was never
finished. In 1840 he built a steam mill at the spot where
now stands Brickey's mill. It was first a flour mill, and was
afterward turned iuto a saw mill. It was operated only at in-
tervals, and in 18.^8 gave place to the present Brickey's
mill, erected by Frank W. Brickey and Abraham H. Lee.
The church of St. Joseph was built in 1734. The corner-
stone of the present church was laid July 19th, 1858. The
front was rebuilt and steeple constructed in 1881. The old
tabernacle brought from France, and in use in the church of
St. Anne at Fort Chartres village, is still preserved, as also
are the old chalices. Among the other property of the par-
ish is a silver castor marked 1680. Of the congregation
two-thirds is made up of French families. The rest are
Americans and Germans. Services are held in the French,
German and English languages. The Rev Charles Krewet
is the priest in charge of the parish.
The population of Prairie du Rocher by the census of 1880
was about three hundred. More than one-half of the fami-
lies are French, the descendants of the early settlers of the
vicinity. Some few of the old ladies can speak nothing but
the French language, though of late years the English has
come into general use. The village wears a thrifty and
prosperous look, and numerous improvements have lately
been made.
The town was incorporated in 18'2.^, but the organization
was soon abandoned. The town government was renewed in
183.5, but was again allowed to die out. In 1871 the town
organization was again revived, and trustees elected. In
March, 1873, the inhabitants voted to organize as a village
under the general law. The board of trustees for 1882 is
composed of Franklin W. Brickey, President, Philip W.
Unger, Dr. James Sloey, Frank Gladd, Louis Chaudet, and
William D. Ames.
There are three general stores, carried on by Franklin
W. Brickey, Philip W. Unger & Co. (Philip W. Unger,
Antoine Blais and William H. Conner) and Stephen
Chaudet & Co (Stephen and Louis Chaudet). William D.
Araet has a grocery store. Martin Becker and Ernest
Girard have blacksmith shops, and John Schott and Joseph
Seecleger follow shoe making. Dr. James Sloey, Albert L.
Brands and Dennis F. Cecil practice medicine. William A.
Gibbs is police magistrate, and Jacob R. Duclos postmaster.
The post office is supplied by a tri-weekly mail by the
route from Brewerville by Prairie du Rocher and Renault
to Burksville stations. The most important factor in the
prosperity of the village is the mill of Franklin W. Brickey,
built by Mr. Brickey and Abraham H. Lee in 18-58. The
present proprietor has been absolute owner since 1868. The
mill has a capacity of two hundred barrels per day. The
product is shipped to the New Orleans market. A cooper
shop is now in connection with the mill. The least amount
of wheat ground at this mill since its establishment was
.30,661 bushels in 1860, and the highest 118,062 bushels in
1879 The lowest price paid per bushel for wheat was
seventy-six cents in 1878, and the highest two dollars and
thirty-five cents in 1867. Mr. Brickey is a native of Wash-
ington county, Missouri, and has been a resident of the
county since 1844, in which year he began business at Fort
Chartres landings
PRAIRIE DU ROCHER COMMON.S.
A grant of upland more than three miles square, was
made to the inhabitants of Prairie du Rocher for commons
on the 7th of May, i743. The grant is signed by Delaloire
Plancourt, civil ^udge at the Illinois, residing at Fort
Chartres. The land was used in common by the residents of
the village for more than a hundred years without restric-
tion. A special act in force February 8th, 1851, was passed
by the State Legislature, which constituted Andrew Bar-
beau, Leon Vion, Antoine Albert, Joseph Blais and
Ambrose Ker, and their successors, a body corporate and
politic, by the name and style of '' The President and
Trustees of the Commons of Prairie da Rocher." It was
provided that an election for trustees should be held in
^pril, 1853, and every two years subsequently. The
trustees were given power to sell or lease the land, the pro-
ceeds to be applied to the education of the children of the
inhabitants of Prairie du Rocher, and "of such residents as
by immemorial custom had been commoners on said
common, and the children of the lessees of said land or lots.
No lease of land should be made to extend beyond ninety-
nine years. To carry out the provisions of the act the
trustees were authorized to establish not more than two
elementary schools in the village of Prairie du Rocher.
Under the provisions of this act one half of [the commons
was sold at public sale in the year 1852. The land brought
from one dollar and fifty cents to four dollars an acre. The
balance has since been sold at private sale. The money
has been used for the support of the public schools, so that
no money for school purposes is raised by taxation in the
Prairie du Rocher district. On the 21st of May, 1859, the
commons fund amounted to $11,856.40, and on 10th of
April, 1882, to 815,286.64. The fund is in the hands of
Franklin W. Brickey as treasurer The present trustees
are Philip W. Unger, president ; Joseph Bessen, Henry
Barbeau, Vincent Mudd and Thomas L. Mudd.
No early settlements were made in the commons, it being
possible to acquire no fee simple title to the land till after
the sales in 1852. John Mudd, now a resident of the Com-
mons, is one of the oldest citizens of the county. He was
born in Washington county, Kentucky, in February, 1802,
and came with his father, Thomas Mudd, to Randolph
county in 1816, the family settling in section twenty, of
township five south, range eight west His wife, with whom
he has lived since 1830 (they having been married longer
than any other couple in Prairie du Rocher precinct) was
Mary Brewer, daughter of John Brewer, who settled in
section twenty-four, township five south, range nine west,
adjoining the Commons, in the spring of 1822.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
379
BIOGRAPHIES.
^/^/Wv-uC ^tf^t
COO^
Prairie DU RociiER, a charming village, located early in
the past century, fur the last twenty-five years has recognized
Antoine Blais as its leading merchant. Here he was born
August 27, 1809. His ancestors for three generations before
him, lived in the same village. Antoine received his early
education in the subscription schools in his native town. At
the age of seventeen he went to St. Genevieve, Mo., where
he learned the trade of a blacksmith. Two years thereafter
found him in St Louis driving his trade. In 1832 he re-
turned to Prairie du Rocher, where he prosecuted the same
business.
In July, of the same year, he married Lucy Conner,
who died in 184l>. In 1.S49, he, in company with others,
went to California, returning in 1857, witii considerable
means, acquired during his stay. At that time he entered
upon his mercantile career. A few months after his return
he was married to Mary M. Phegley, the daughter of Abra-
ham Phegley, a native of Kentucky. Mr. Blais is favorably
known throughout the county as a business man of reliabil-
ity and enterprise. He commenced his career without a
dollar, and !iis accumulations have been the result of his in-
dividual efforts.
380
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
aJ
ABKAHAM H. LEE (deceased).
A STRANGER entering the pretty little village of Prairie
du Rocher, from the east, perceives while yet descending
the steep hill leading to the great American Bottom, the
quaint old mill of Franklin W. Brickey, formerly built and
owned by Abraham H. Lee, in connection with its present
proprietor. Close by the mill the eye catches the sight of the
beautiful Lee mansion, now occupied by Mr. F. W. Brickey.
The history of Mr. A. H. Lee, whose portrait heads this
sketch, is indeed a very interesting one, and well deserves to
be perpetuated in the annals of Randolph county. He was a
native of Centreville, Ohio, born on the 26th day of Sep-
tember, 1819. Coming to St. Louis when yet a young man,
he was there engaged as commission merchant and steam-
boat clerk ; he afterward founded the firm of David Tatum
& Co., in St. Louis, on Second street, between Washington
and Christy avenues, which house did a lucrative commis-
sion business. In 1857 he came to Prairie du Rocher, 111.,
where he, in conipa^ny with Mr. Brickey', entered the milling
business, at which he continued until the year 1867. On
the 2"2d day of January, 1846, Mr. Lee was married to Miss
Marie Josephine Henry, at Prairie du Rocher. Mrs. Lee
was born at Ross Town, New York, December 13, 1826.
Her parents were William and Mary Henry, Their child-
ren, in the order of their birth, are : Roger S- Lee, born
Nov. 26, 1846. He married Miss Martha Johnson, in 1870,
They have four children, and reside near St. Joseph, Bu-
chanan county.. Mo., where Mr. Lee is engaged in farming.
Mary Lee, born Nov. 24, 1848; died August 18, 1850.
William H. Lee, born Dec. 10, 1852; was married to Miss
Matilda McCartney, Feb. 5, 1875. They had three child-
dren, two living and one dead. Wm. H. Lee is engaged in
the wholesale liquor trade at 212 Walnut street, St. Louis,
Mo. Louis H. Lee, born March 24, 1854 ; Charles H. Lee,
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
381
born April 9, 1856 ; Angelica G. Lee, born June 7, 1858,
died March 10, 1863. Elmira Lee, born March 16, 1860.
Miss Elinira was married to Mr. H, Benoist, on Feb. 10,
1878. They have three children. Mr. Benoist carries on a
wholesale saddlery store at 425 North Main street, St. Louis,
Mo. J. Perry Lee, born Aug. 5, 1862 ; Grace Lee, born
July 4, 1864, died April 1.5, 1866.
Mr. A. H. Lee was postmaster of Prairie du Rocher for
three years. An amusing feature of his official career in
that capacity is his collection of the different styles of spell-
ing the name of " Prairie du Rocher " which came under his
observation. There are only twenty-four various ways. The
list was originally published in the " Missouri Republican ":
Perry Deruth, peredrush, Prairie du Roncher, Perider-
oosh, Piere Deroncher, Praridruch, Pirairie de rocher,
Praria Der Rocher, Prairn du Rusher, Praire du Rocher,
Prairie du Roocher, Pery doroch, Prairie DeRushar, Prarie
Du Rush, Praery du Rucher, Praree Roodichard, prair
deuerse, Prerie darcher, Prarie duche, Prairie du Rocheis
Perraerie Daroushe, Prei Durusya, Pary Jeruse Praiue du
Roche.
The list goes to show that the efficiency of our postal ser-
vice, as far as reading of names is concerned, approaches
perfection rather closely.
Mr. Lee also served for a number of years as a notary
public. The most notable event of his life occurred on the
21st of January, 1867, on which day he was the fortunate
winner of the " Crosby Opera House," at Chicago. This
magnificent structure had been erected by Mr. U. H. Crosby,
at a cost of $600,000. Owing to the great excess of this
expense over the original estimates, resulting from many
unforeseen causes originated by the war and its accom-
panying disasters, Mr. Crosby became financially embar-
rassed, which made the sale of the property a necessity. It
was determined to arrange a grand drawing, the opera
house being offered as first premium. The price of tickets
was fixed at five dollars each. Mr. Lee bought only one
ticket, No. 58,600.
The subsequent history of the matter will be shown to
better advantage by newspaper clippings preserved in Mr.
Lee's scrap-book, which are given below :
"The following letter written by Mr. Lee to a friend in
Chicago on the day after he first was notified of his good luck.
It explains more than aught else what kind of a man Mr.
Lee was, and shows that fortune in awarding the magnifi-
cent prizeexercised a commendable discretion in the selection
of her favorite :
Pr.\irie du Rocher, January 22, 1867.
Dear Daniel: — I was very much astonished last evening
at about seven o'clock, by the sudden appearance of two
men in our bed room, where I sat reading by the side of my
wife's bed, with the sudden announcement that I had drawn
the opera house at Chicago. I don't think that I was at all
excited by the report. I had a slight acriuaintance with
Mr. Burroughs, one of the men ; the other, from Waterloo,
was an entire stranger. The only document they brought
was a copy of the Republican of the 22d inst., which had so
many accounts of the matter that I hardly dared believe
any of them. However, I bore the congratulations of my
new friends with commendable fortitude, and dismissed
them with suitable acknowledgement.''.
After the lapse of half an hour I was the recipient of
sundry calls from neighbors and friends in the village, all
highly excited. The report had spread like lightning, and
the whole neighborhood was in an uproar. I bore a hand
at receiving the company, answered their questions with as
much dignity as I could assume, and, in a state of semi-con-
sciousness of what it all meant, started off to commune with
Frank (F. W. Brickey) on the curious appearance of things.
I had been there but a few minutes when a halloo was made
at the door for Mr. Lee. " Is Mr. Lee here ?" Well, I went
to the door and acknowledged that I was that person and
went at him with the question of " What do you want ? "
" Why, said the poor frozen fellow, " I have a dispatch for
you from Belleville. You have drawn the opera house "
I received the document and after asking Sallie (Mrs. F.
W. Brickey) the privilege of reading it by the light of her
lamp, I read as follows:
A. H. Lee, Prairie du Rocher, Illinois. Crosby's Opera-
house yours. Hold your ticket.
J. B. Chamberl.mn.
I mentally returned thanks to my new friend, Chamber-
Iain, and returned home considerably perplexed and not yet
fully conscious of the reason of my being in the hands of so
many new friends, who all seemed to show so strong a desire
to favor me. But a happy thought struck me. " I will
look at my ticket and see if there is anything in it." VVell,
Daniel, when I found it, there stood the figures as plain as
day, 58,600, and no mistake. In the meantime, Joe and
Ma had got hold of the matter, and to my unbounded aston.
ishment, they received it at once as a fiict. I had undressed
myself, for it was getting late, and was sitting in my long-
tailed night-shirt, discussing the events of the evening, when
a thundering knock at the door announced that all was not
over yet. Ma went to the door, and quickly returned with
the intelligence that "a man" wished to see me, and that
he said I had drawn " Crosby's Opera-house." " The devil,"
said I, '■ I wish they had to swallow the opera-house ; " and,
after dressing myself, went down to receive the new messen-
ger. He bowed to me, I thought, as though I was a man of
property, and in suitable style delivered his credentials. I
looked carefully over a well-written letter of six lines, and
derived such information as induced me to believe that the
lucky holder of .>'^,600 was actually to become a man of
property, sure enough ; for this letter came from Messrs.
Pettes & Leathe, " sent," as they say, by instructions of Mr.
Crosby himself. I found this last raeseenger pretty well
informed about the matter, and, after seeing him eat a
hearty supper and arrive at that condition when people
generally become confidential and good-natured, took him
aside and asked him, " if it were a fact, and no mistake."
He gave me most solemn assurance that there was no mis-
take about it, and that " John Meyer, of somewhere, Ran-
dolph street, Chicago, was a humbug."
382
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
" Very well, Daniel, as I am really the possessor of ticket
58,600, I suppose that the opera-house really belongs to me,
and I just say to you, that it is for sale. I suppose some-
body wants to buy it, and I have to ask you to sell it for
me. It is impossible for me to leave my wife in her present
condition, or I would go up to you at once. I must wait
until she gets better, whether I get the opera-house or not.
She is very ill, indeed ; but I think her symptoms are favor-
able for improvement. At all events, write to me on receipt
of this. Your friend and brother,
"A. H. Lee."
The followiug communication of Mr. Lee to the Chicago
Timet' embodies the reasons for the sale of the opera-house to
Mr. Crosby, and explains satisfactorily the dilatoriness of
Mr. Lee in reaching the city of Chicago, and the reluctance
he entertained relative to being made an object of curiosity
and remark :
" To the Editor of The Times : "
De.\i; Sir : — I desire to.pub-
licly acknowledge the obligations I am under to Jlr. N. H.
Crosby for the promptitude and courtesy with which he has
dealt with me as the drawer of the opera house. As soon
as the books were unsealed by the committee and my
name discovered, a telegraphic message was sent by him to
Pettes & Leathe, the agents of the association at St. Louis,
to " put a faithful man on horseback and at once notify me
of the fact," and this was done without expense to me.
The illness of my wife prevented me from coming sooner
to Chicago. It was my wish and request that I might come
here and transact my business with Mr. Crosby without
being the object of unpleasant notoriety, and without having
my name heralded in the newspapers, and I feel deeply in-
debted to him for the considerate manner in which the re-
quest has been observed, especially since it has caused him
some embarrassment as well as occasioned invidious comment.
Feeling that the opera house should properly be owned
by Mr. Crosby, I made him the offer to sell it to him for
S'200,000, and the offer was accepted in a spirit which is very
gratifying, and the money promptly paid to me.
My connection with the opera house having thus happily
terminated, I am, sir,
Very respectfully and sincerely, j'ours,
A. H. Lee.
The above two letters of !Mr. Lee plainly delineate his
fine character. His many friends fouud him entirely un-
changed after the acquirement of his fortune, and he always
continued to be the same, whole-souled, liberal and high-
miuded A H. Lee of old. — Mrs. Lee, to whom her husband
was closely attached was not permitted to enjoy their good
fortune long. She died only a few months after, on Sep-
tember 20th, 18(57, at the age of 40 years, 9 months and 7
days. Her remains are interred in Calvary cemetery, St.
Louis.
3Ir. Lee, while traveling, died suddenly at the Burnett
House at Cincinnati, on July 23d, 1869, at the age of 51
years, 9 months and 7 days. His remains are interred by
the side of his beloved wife at St. Louis.
RENAULT.
MONROE COUNTY.
EXAULT precinct bears the name of one of
the most conspicuous men connected with
the early French settlements of Illinois. The
Company of the West was organized in
France in 1717 with the object of develop-
ing the mineral resources and great wealth
of the Mississippi valley. This company was invested with
exclusive and valuable privileges. A branch called the
Company of St. Phillip's was formed, to improve the mines
of Illinois and Upper Louisiana. Philip Francois Renault,
a native of Picardy, France, and a man of sound mind and
much energy, was selected as the principal agent to carry
out the plans of the company. He sailed from France in
the year 1719 with two hundred mechanics, miners and
laborers, and stopping at the island of San Domingo secured
five hundred negro slaves to aid in working the mines.
These negroes were the first slaves in Illinois. He arrived
at Fort Chartres with this colony, the largest which up to
that time had reached the Mississippi valley.
To aid him in his undertakings he received several con-
cessions of land. On the fourteenth of June, 1723, he re-
ceived a grant " in freehold, in order to make his establish-
ment upon the mines " of a tract of land a league and a half
in width by six in depth on the " Little Marameig " in
Upper Louisiana (Missouri) ; another tract of two leagues
" at the mine called the mine of Lamothe ; " another of one
league in front of Pimeteau on the river Illinois ; and " one
league fronting on the Mississippi, at the place called the
Great Marsh, adjoining on one side to the Illinois Indians,
settled near Fort de Chartres, with a depth of two leagues,
this place being the situation which has been granted to him
for the raising of provisions, and to enable him to furnish
them to all the settlements he shall make upon the mines."
This conveyance is signed by Boisbriant, the commandant
at Fort Chartres, and Des Ursins, the principal of the Royal
India Company. The Company of the West in 1719 had
been merged into the Compauy of the Indies, under the title
of the Royal India Company. The grant at Pimeteau on
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
38.3
the Illinois river was in the vicinity of Peoria, and was sup-
posed to cover a copper mine. That of one league front on
the Mississippi at the Great Marsh was what has since been
known as the Renault grant in the south corner of Monroe
county. Numerous explorations were made throughout
Illinois in fruitless search of metal. Renault was more suc-
cessful in Upper Louisiana, now Missouri, and melted con-
siderable lead which was conveyed by pack horses to the
river, and thence transported to New Orleans. It will be
noted that the fertile tract of bottom land in the Renault grant
was intended to furnish supplies for the mines. Farmers
and mechanics were induced to settle on this tract, and the
village of St. Phillips, five miles from Fort Chartres, was
founded. Renault himself had his headquarters at the fort.
Persons claiming to be his legal representatives, have lately
attempted to recover, through the courts, possession of this
land from those who have been living on it for many years,
and who have been engaged in its cultivation.
THE Vni.I.AGE OF ST. PHILLIl'.S.
Renault received his grant of land in June, 1723, and
shortly afterward the village of St. Phillips began its growth.
A chapel was here established under the care of the church
of St. Anne at Fort Chartres village. Surveys made on the
24th of March, 173(3, show that the St. Phillips common
field lands, beginning at the south boundary, were then
divided among the settlers.
The village of St. Phillips never grew to any great size.
It was built on claim 1308, survey 303 and adjoining .survey
3, on the east what is known as the " Stringtownroad," and
little remains to show its site. Captain Philip Pitman, of
the British army, thus describes it in 1700 : " Saint Phillipe,
a small village about five miles from Fort Chartres, on the
road to Kaoquias. There are about sixteen houses and a
small church standing. All of the inhabitants, except the
captain of the militia, deserted it in 176.5, and went to the
French side (Missouri.) The captain of the militia has about
twenty slaves, a good stock of cattle, and a water mill for
corn and planks. The village stands on a very fine meadow,
about one mile from the Mississippi." After 1761! the
village rapidly declined, and before the close of the last
century contained not a single French family. John Everett
was the only inhabitant in 1803, on claim l'>t't8, survey 317,
a lot containing about twenty acres, was a water mill, owned
at one time, according to the records, by Charles Cndron.
who acquired title in 173(J.
AMERICAS SETTLEMENTS.
In this part of the country was made one of the first
American settlements in Illinois by Robert Kidd. He had
been a soldier under Colonel George Rogers Clark, and had
taken part in the capture of Kaskaskia. He returned to
Illinois in 1781, in company with four others, with the inten-
tion of permanently settling in the country. His com-
panions chose locations near the present town of Waterloo,
and in the bottom in what is now Moredock precinct, while
Kidd settled in the bottom above Fort Chartres. His home
was under the blufi", at the head of Kidd lake. He died in
1849 at an age upwards of eighty years. The old house in
which he is said to have lived, is still standing on survey
939, His farm is a part of the estate of Jacob Fults. He
was a good citizen, quiet and domestic in his ways, and rais-
ed a family of children among whom were two sons, John
and Samuel Kidd. Some of his descendants still reside in
the country.
On survey G33, claim 99.5, in the bottom, not far from the
Randolph county line, lived Alexander McNabb. He
acquired this tract under the act of Congress granting a
donation of one hundred acres to each militiaman enrolled
and doing duty in Illinois, on the first day of August, 17!)0,
He had a genius for mechanical pursuits, and was master of
several trades. At one time he carried on the manuftieture
of powder in the cave in the bluff a mile above Prairie du
Rocher.
The McDavid prairie received its name from .John
McDavid, who came to Illinois from Virginia, and lived for
many years in this part of the county. With him came his
brother Jonnathan McDavid, who died not long after his
arrival. John McDavid rented land belonging to Mrs.
Fisher, a daughter of Henry Levins, and the widow of John
Fisher, son of Dr. George Fisher of the vicinity of Kaskas-
kia, McDavid finally married Jlrs, Fisher, Samuel Nolan
settled in early times near the vicinity of Ivy Landing,
Below the landing also at an early day settled Daniel Winn,
The farm on which he lived has disappeared in the river, A
si.iter to Samuel Nolan married Lewis Greene, and after the
death of her first husband she became the wife of Daniel
Winn. Elizabeth Greene, a daughter of Lewis Greene,
married Jacob Fults, one of the former residents of Renault
precinct. She was born September, 1803, near Cahokia,
and was married to .lacob Fults, in 1818, near Rush Tower,
Missouri. Jacob Fults was born in Pennsylvania in the year
1793, his parents having emigrated to that state from
Germany. He served five years in the regular army, taking
part in the war of 1812-14. He left the United States
service in 1817, He first settled on Moredock lake,and
afterward came to Rjniult precinct where he died
July, 1841, He lived for a time half a mile up Braun's
hollow, and then on survey 309, claim 1309, where his son
Jacob afterward lived for many years. He came to this
location in the year 1829,
Glasgow City was laid off by .James Glasgow in the year
I860, A frame store-house was built by Stamen Keagy,
who began the mercantile business. He kept the store two
or three years, and was then succeeded by John Glenn.
This store stood on Main street in the north part of the town.
After (ilenn relinquished it Frank Brickcy was the proprie-
tor. Among other merchants who have tran.sacted business
in the jilace have been Jacob Meyer, John Burkhardt,
Frank Burk it Brothers and Andrew Sale. A steam
flouring mill was built in the year 1868 by James G. Ellifl'.
He only ran the mill a short time, and then Simon Sale
became the proprietor. The town now contains twenty-eight
dwelling houses and a ])opulatiou of about one hundred and
384
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
fifty- Abraham B. Sale and Dr. Jesse Chewning carry on
general stores. The latter also sells drugs. Peter Studt,
Geortre W. Dashner and William Hess are engaged in the
blacksniithing business. Anton Stagel and John Agelstien
are wagon makers. Harmon K. Tilkemeyer has a shoe-
making e.'^tablishment. Hotels are kept by Harmon Church,
George W. Dashner and James Wright. The mill owned
by Simon Sale has three run of buhrs. There are two
churches, one Catholic and the other Lutheran. The post
office is called Renault. The town is built on the old St.
Louis and Kaskaskia road, which ran from Prairie du
Rocher along the bluH'till south of Glasgow City, and then
ascended the bluff, passing through Burksville and Water-
loo to St. Louis.
■^^^g^^^^SS9^^-
SPARTA
RANDOLPH CO.
RETROSPECTIVE of sixty years carries
the reader of history back to the first settle-
ment of this precinct. It was originally
about three-fourths timber land, the remain-
der being prairie of a rich sandy loam. This
was known as Flat Prairie, situated in the
northeast. The timber was mainly of post oak and black
iack varieties, interspersed with hickory and walnut. The
soil was of a clayey loam, sprinkled with sand, and pecu-
liarly adapted to the culture of wheat. In the early days
corn' and cotton were the chief products. A few years later
the castor bean was introduced and became the leading in-
dustry of the husbandman. To-day the staple is winter
wheat. The surface is undulating and the natural drainage
is almost complete. In the northwest is Plum creek and
its tributaries, which forms an important auxiliary for the
drainage of that portion of the precinct. Tributaries to the
Little Mary's river in the south and east constitute an ex-
cellent water-way for that section. The following are the
present boundaries of the precinct : On the north by Tilden
and Coulterville ; on the east by Coulterville and Perry
county ; south by Steele's Mills and Blair precincts ; and on
the west by Blair and Central precincts.
The transportation facilities are very good, the Cairo and
St. Louis railway entering the precinct from the west, in
the northwest corner of section 2, town 5, range 6, and
passing through the precinct in a southeasterly direction,
crossing the line in section 27, town 5, range .5.
EARLY SETTLEMENTS.
The first to make a home in Sparta precinct was the pio-
neer, Robert Hoggins ; he came from South Carolina in
1798, and located near Kaskaskia; subsequently in
1812 he moved with his family and squatted in section 19,
town 5, range 5, on the land now owned by Samuel Wilson.
He erected a small pole cabin and commenced the life of a
pioneer, living mostly by trapping and hunting. He cleared
a piece of ground and raised a patch of corn sufficient to
supply the wants of the family, but occupied the greater
part of his time in hunting ; indeed, he was purely a back-
woodsman of the Daniel Boone type, and it is said of him,
that there was but one man who was his equal as a hunts-
man in all the country around, and that was a Frenchman at
Kaskaskia. He moved to Perry county in 1823 and resided
there until his death. One son, John, lives in Perry county,
being upwards of eighty years of age. Near the cabin of
Huggius was built a fort or block-house ; it was constructed
of logs, and was two stories high ; it was built in 1812 or '13,
and was the place of refuge during those troublesome times
when the States were at war with Great Britain. This was
then the frontier, and the settlers took every caution to pro-
tect their families from the Indians ; if an alarm was given,
the whole neighborhood would fly to the forts for protection
and safety. In the second story port-holes were gashed in
the logs, and so arranged that the rifle could bear upon any
point within range of the fort. This building might have
been seen standing as late as 1820. It was subsequently
torn down and the logs utilized for stables by the early
settlers.
David Hoggins, a brother of Robert, settled in section 18,
town o, range 5, about the same time as the above ; he re-
mained but a few years, moving to Washington county in
1815. James Hnggins, a son of Robert, was the first settler
in Flat Prairie; this was in 1817 ; they have long since mi-
grated to other portions of the States.
Another pioneer was James Patterson ; in 1817 he moved
to Randolph county and settled in section 13, town 5, range
6, where he resided until his death, which occurred in the
fall of 1828.
Among the most prominent early settlers was Maj. Andrew
Borders. He was born in South Carolina, and when a young
man went to the State of Georgia, where he married
Martha Clark in 1813. Three years later he emigrated to
Illinois, and settled in section 3, township 5, range 6, on the
farm now owned by Silas M. Little. His family then con-
sisted of his wife and one daughter, Mary A. He arrived
the first of January, 1816. Having no house to go into, the
family lived for a short time in a tent prepared for the pur-
pose. In the meantime a rude cabin was constructed.
Subsequently he entered a quarter section of land, and
3 84 A
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
commenced the improvement of the same. Several cliihlren
were born to the family as follows : James J., Michael W ,
Elias K., Sarah K., Rachel, Cynthia, Martha, and Minerva
11. Mr. Borders was a good financier, frugal in hi.s habits,
and thus became one of the wealthiest men in the county.
At his death, which occurred in January, l.S(i4, he was in
possession of seven or eiglit thousand acres of land. James
J. is a baker in Sparta, Michael W. lives in St. Clair county,
Sarah, widow of Andrew Mcllwain, lives in town 4, ranged,
anil Minerva H., wife of Silas M. Lott, resides at the old
homestead in town 5, range C. No other members of the
family are now living.
James McClurken was also born in South Carolina, but
while in Kentucky he married Susan Leapcr. Soon after-
ward they moved to the State of Indiana, and in 18 Ui, emi-
grated to this county, and located in what is now Central
precinct. Two years later (1818) he moved to Sparta, and
located in section (>, and entered the land that the city now
occupies. The family, at thi.s time, were his wife and three
children, Jane, Susan, and Samuel. Six other children were
born to the family, Sarah, James L., Matthew, i\Iary, Florence
A., and Thomas. Mr. McClurken entered ijuite a tract of
land, and became one of the leading business men of that
day. He constructed the first cotton gin in this part of the
country, and thus became an important factor in the indus-
try of the culture, and propagation of the cotton plant.
Subsequently he built a castor oil prcs», and was largely en-
gaged in the traffic of the castor bean product, and the
commerce of the same. In 18:?9 he erected a saw mill in
Sparta, and the following year (1840) built the first steam
flouring mill in this part of the county. His eflbrts as a
shrewd business man were appreciated, and in the same
j'ear he was elected to represent his constituency in the State
Legislature. During his whole business life he was one
among the leading men of the day. His death occurred in
Sparta, January, 18.')1. All the children have passed away
except Matthew and Florence. The former is a resident of
Sparta, atid is one of the foremo.5t business men of the city.
He owns the woolen mills, and is largely engaged in the
mercantile afl'airs of the town. In honor of his birth, which
was among the first in the village, he has erected his dwel-
ling over the very spot where he was born. Florence,
■widow of Henry Gardner, is also a resident of the citv.
Samuel Nisbet wa.s a native of Ireland, born in 1782. He
came with his parents to America in IT^*!), and landed in
Charleston, South Carolina. In 18().5 he married Nancy
Morris, and in the fall of the same year they moved to Ten-
nessee, where they remained until the fall of 181i). The year
before he had come to Illinois and entered land on section 9.
He returned, and the next tall removed his family to the
new-made state. The family then consisted of three sons and
three daughters : James, Robert, Samuel T., Jane C, Agnes
and Mary. Their first shelter was a tent, where they lived
for three weeks, or until a cabin could be erected. This
house was a rude affair, 16x18 feet, and constructed of logs
or poles, such as four men could conveniently handle.
Neighbors were so scarce, that Mr. N. was obliged to go six
miles to obtain help in the raising of his cabin. Windows
49
were luxuries in those days that the pioneers were unable to
purcha.se. For lighting purposes, a crack between the logs
at the jamb was left open. The door was maile of rived
clap-board-, and the roof was of the same material, held
down with " weight-poles." The floor was mother earth,
and the chimney was constructed from slicks and mud. He
became a jjrosperous farmer ; he was aho a carpenter. lie
died in 1872.
Quite an addition was made to the little colony in l^Ui
and 1820; among whom were: Arthur Parks, William
and Samuel Gordon, John and James Baird, Thomas Mc-
Dill, James Wilson, William Chambers, Alexander, John
and Ebenezer Alexander, Thomas and William Finley, and
John McMillan.
The Alexanders were also early settlers, so was William
Chambers and family. Jarucs Wilson was another early
settler; he came in 1><20, and raisetl a large family, all of
whimi are decea.sed. He and his wife died several years
ago. Arthur Parks settled in this precinct in the spring
of 1819 He was for a time county commissioner, and
served many vears as justice of the peace; he died in l''^44.
The McDills were from South Carolina, and settled here in
1820. John and James Baird became residents of what is
now this precinct in 1819. Thomas and William Finley
(brothers) were natives of Ireland ; they settled on sec. 7 in
1820, and both had families. William and Samuel Gordon
also located here in 1820. William was a tanner by trade.
His brother Samuel married here and reared a family.
He was a blacksmith and established the first shop in this
precinct on section 19. He subsequently became interested
in the culture of castor beans. He constructed the first oil
l)ress and was the leading factor of that industry. James
Anderson came from Pittsburg, Pennsylvania, in 1821, and
settled in section 8, a little south of Eden. He and his wife
are both deceased ; he died in July, 1827. .Samuel Wylie, an
Irishman by birth, became a resident of the county in 1817.
He first located in Kaska.skia anil in lS2ii came to this pre-
cinct. John Armour located here in 1826. He was a school
teacher, and was a man of considerable reputation and en-
terprise One of the most prominent citizens here of his
time was Robert G. Shannon. He was of Irish descent, and
came to Illinois in 1818. In 1827, he established himself in
the mercantile business on section G, a mile south of Sparta.
In 1828, he moved to the present site of that town, and es-
tablished the first store. The first post-office in the town
was called Shannon's store, and Mr. Shannon was the post-
master. He was one of the leading business men until his
death, which occurred in 1849. Nine children were born
to the family, only one of whom is living, John R. who
now resides somewhere west of the ^Mississippi. Joseph
Brown emigrated from South Carolina to the precinct of
Sparta in the fall of 1827. His family then consisted of
his wife Elizabeth, and three children, Isaac, James M. and
Eliza J. lie first located in section 13, T. o, R. (i. The
following spring he moved to section 12, a little south of
Sparta. Several children were born to the fanjily after
their coming. All are living except James M. Isaac, Eliza
J. and William are in Kansas. David is in Perry county,
380
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Margaret lives in Sparta, Joseph resides near Coulterville,
and Mary lives at the old homestead. Mr. Brown is yet
living, and in his eighty-sixth year of age. He yet resides
in section 12, where he located in 1828.
Lawson JMurphy was a Tennesseean, and moved with his
family to this precinct in the spring of 182!), and first located
in what is now Tilden precinct. He remained here but a
few months, when he removed to Sparta, where he lived un-
till his death. At his coming he had a wife and an infant
son, William P. Seven other children were born to the
family, all of whom are now dead. William P. is the only
survivor of this numerous family. Mr. Murphy was a brick
mason by trade, and was auxiliary in making the brick,
and constructed the first brick houses in Sparta. He died
in 1851. William P. has for many years been a prominent
citizen of the county. He has filled the office of county
treasurer, been the assessor of internal revenue for Randolph
county, held the office of Judge of the Common Pleas Court
of the city of Sparta, and was the last county Judge up to
December, 1882.
. William Rosborough settled in Sparta in the spring of
ISo.;. He was for many years an active business man.
Among other early residents were, James Bottom, John
Michau. The latter has for many years been a leading
lawyer in the county. The Bsatties, James S. Brown, Wra.
J. Morrison and A. Stewart, may also be mentioned.
Believing that the early land entries will be of interest
we append a few of the same :
April 10th, l.'d"), William Morrison entered all of section
19, being (ill acres. June oOth, 1817, N. Pope and W.
Harrison entered the E \ of section 20. March :;d, 1818,
James Anderson entered the S. W. 1 of 8. July 'iOth of
the same y&xt, James and John Huggins entered the W. I
of the S. E. -i of section H. August 26th, 1818, Jacob Rann
entered the N. W. 1 of section 17. November 28th, 1818,
Samuel Nisbet entered the E. I of the N. E. i of section 9.
August 8th, 1818, John Murphy entered the E. I of the S.
E. f of section 30. August 24th, 1818, Augustine Davis
entered the E. \ of the N. E. } of the same section. Sep-
tember 22(1, 1818, Nicholas Bowerman entered the N. E. \
of section 25. October 1st, 1818, William I\[arshall entered
the W. J of the N. W- \ of .section 4. October 15th, 1818,
John McMillan entered the W. \ of the S. W. \ of section
5. December 17th, 1818, James McClurken entered the S.
W. I of section 5. The above entries are all in town.ship 5,
range 5. Francis Beatty entered 400 acres in section 33,
town 4, range 5. August 3d, 1818, Samuel Hill, jr. entered
the S. W. 4 of section 30, same town and range.
The first marriage ceremony was performed at the house
of James Patter.son in 1820 The contracting parties were
William Sterret and a daughter of Mr. Patterson. In the
same year was recorded the first death, the person being a
little daughter of William Chambers. She was buried in
section eight, on the land then occupied by Ebenezer Alex-
ander. He subsequently laid off the grcund for a cemetery,
and it is now known as the Bethel burial ground. The
first school was taught by a man of the name of Moore in
the summer of 1820. The school-house was situated in
section sixth, about a mile south of Sparta. It was originally
built for a dwebing by one of the early settlers, but had
been abandoned. It was a little log cabin, with puncheon
floor, and the lighting was obtained through the cracks
between the logs. It then required about six miles square
to constitute a sufficient number of children to form a
school. Among the early justices of the peace were Arthur
Parks and Robert Clark. The first practicing physician
was Dr. Jernigan, who then resided near Georgetown.
Joseph Fernan was the first physician to locate here. This
was in 1829. He remained here until his death
which occurred in 18(il. A post office was established in
1822, and was situated in section six, about a mile south
of Sparta. William Gordon was the post master. The
major part of the subsequent history will be found- in the
CITY OF SrAKTA.
The first upon the ground of this beautiful city was James
McClurken, a sketch of whom has already been given in
this chapter. In 1826, he sold twenty acres to John
Armour who erected a small log house, situated on what is
now the southwest corner of St. Louis and Main streets.
It is yet standing with a frame addition attached. It is
now weatherboarded and is occupied for a dwelling by A. J.
D(/naldson. A year or two later Mr. Armour erected a
mill near his premises, and about the same time, Robert G.
Shannon moved his store of goods from the south part of
section six, to this point. This formed the nucleus of
the embryo village. In 1829, Mr. Armour conceived the
idea of establishing a town. He therefore laid off his land
into town lots and offered them for sale. The streets were
named Main, Second and Cross streets, and the number of
lot! was seventy-two. The first lot sold was purchased by
Samuel Hill for the sum of four dollars. Mr. Shannon had
the honor of naming the town, and he gave it the name of
Columbus. This it bore until late in 1839. The history
of its change is briefly as follows: The post office was
called Shannon's store, and the town being of one name
and the post office another, made it very inconvenient to
the citizens. A meeting of the people was therefore called
to take into consideration the renaming of the town. They
met at the McDill hotel, and at the suggestion of James
Morrow the name of Sparta was adopted, which was subse-
quently sanctioned by legislative enactment. The name of
the post oflice was changed a few months later. The mill
constructed by Armour was the first in the precinct. It was
worked with a sweep, and required four horses or oxen to
propel it. It was in successful operation for several years.
Shannon's store was a small log house situated on Main
street, just west of the brick building now standing with the
sign of J. R. Shannon. William H. McDill constructed
and kept the first hotel. This was in 1833. The house
was a two story frame, situated on Main street, lot one,
Armour's survey. It is yet standing. Just east of it was
laid out a public square. Let the reader imagine if he can
a public square, thirty by sixty feet in dimensions, for that
was its size. Until within the last year or so it has been
open to the commons. Robert Pollock was one of the first
business men of Sparta. In about 1830, he established a
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
387
tannery in the town, and conducted a butcher shop. His
son, J. T., in later days became a prominent phj'sician in
the town. The tirst brick house was erected in liS.'iO
by Rubt. G. Shannon for a store house. It is situated on
the north side of Main street, and a little east of .'^t. Louis
street. It is now occupied as a dwelling by H. J. Wilson.
In the same year, Thornhill Ballard established a black-
smith shop on Main street, on the premises now occupied by
the Reverend McXary. Ballard afterwards moved to
Washington county, where he died. Alexander Campbell
established the first carpenter shop in the same year.
Several dwelling-houses were erected about this time, and
the little town received quite an impetus in the way of
improvement. In 18.'S3, James McClurken built a cotton
gin, and a few years later he erected a steam grist and saw
mill, which was the first in this part of the country. These
gave an additional importance to the commercial interests
of the place, and other substantial improvements soon fol-
lowed. About this time — LSS!) — the ('i/liiiiihu,i Ileru/d was
established by James Morrow. This was an important
auxiliary toward improving the town. In 1840, an
academy of learning was instituted with considerable show
of success. The building is yet standing at the west end of
Broadway, and is now utillized for a dwelling. In the
same year, James McClurken erected an oil mill for the
manufacture of castor oil. This industry formed an impor-
tant item in the commerce of Sparta for many years.
At this writing the city is in a prosperous condition, and
contains nearly '>,W{) inliabitauts. This article would
be incomplete without mentioning the reputation that Sparta
and the town of Eden gained in the time of the agitation of the
slavery question. Indeed, these two towns formed the grand
depot of the system known as the " Underground railway."
After crossing the Mississippi the objective point of the escap-
ing slave was one of these towns. They were then secreted and
as soon as practicable conveyed from point to point in the
night time to the dominions of Canada. The route was to
Chicago, via Alton. After the Illinois Ceiitral Railroad
was constructed they were conveyed to Centralia, thence
north. Hundreds were thus removed beyond the recovery
of their owners. This sy.-.tem prevailed until after the com-
mencement of the Civil War.
Li'-i/rpi/rntion. — The town was incorporated in 18.17, with
the following first officers: Dr. Joseph Farnan, Lawson
Mur|)hy, John A. Wilson, James A. Foster and John W.
Slade constituted the Board of Trustees. In lf<o9 the town
obtained a city charter, and the following named persons
were elected the first city officers; Mayor, John A. WiKson ;
Alderman — Fir=t ward: Robert Gainnull and John Wat.son ;
Second ward : Matthew McClurken and Hugh Kirkpatrick;
Third ward, J. F. McCandless and John W. McCormack ;
Fourth ward, Robert J. Ilarmer and Samuel Niel ; Street
Commissioner, James Laughlin ; Treasurer, Joseph
McHenry ; Assessor, H. C. McCormack. The present offi-
cers are Mayor, S. Lovejoy Taylor; .Vlderinen, William
Blakemere, f. A. R. Orr, T. II Finley, John Watson, W. I). U.
Eiker and Charles Stamm ; Clerk, Benjamin J. Klene ; City
Attorney, R. J. Goddard ; Police Magistrate, A. X. Sprague ;
Marshall, John Meyer ; Street Commissioner, T. A. R.
Orr; Treasurer, William M. Brown.
TRESKNT BLSINliSS, ETC.
Union avd Spnrta Sli'itm Floiiriny Mills — These are
among the leading industries of the city, and have really a
national reputation. The firm is styled Gordon, Barker &
Co. The Union Mill is located on the north side of East
Broadway, and was established in 18.37 by what was known
as the Union Mill Co. It has been under the present man-
agement since 18G6. The building is a brick structure, four
stories high and attic. The main building is .30x70 feet.
There is also a bran room and office — two stories — and 18s
50 feet. The engine £.nd boiler room, one story, 24x.50 feet.
There is also a ware room attachment, frame, ;!0x.')0 feet
and two stories high. A side track extending to the rail-
road is one of the conveniences of the mill. The estimated
value of capital invested is SoO 000. It has the ca[)acity of
manufacturing three hundred barrels of flour in twenty-four
hours, containing six runs of stone and four sets of rolls. It
was the first mill in the country to adopt the patent process
of manufacturing flour. Its present favorite brand is the
"Gazelle." The annual value of manufactured product is
about 8300,000. Shipments are made both South and East,
Tliirtysix men are given employment by this firm.
The Sparta Mill is situated on Jackson street, in the south
part of the city. It is a brick building, four stories high.
The main building is forty feet square, with engine and
boiler room 24x41) feet, and warehouse of the same dimen-
sions. A side track or switch leads to the mill. The mill
was constructed in 18.32 by the Sparta Mill Co., and has
been under the present management since its establishment.
The capital invested is Si'-'nOOO. It contains five run of
burrs, two sets of rolls, and has the capacity of grinding 1.50
barrels of flour daily. Value of ronnufactured product
8200,000 annually. Its fine brand of flour is entitled Ten-
broke. The machinery is driven by an 80-horse power
engine.
Eiigli' Fliinriiirf Mill-t, owned and operated by J. ('. Boyle.
They were established by Mr. Boyle in 1870, and are locat-
ed on the corner of Washington and Church streets. The
capital invested is about 830,000. The building is a fine
brick structure, four stories and basement. The entire
building covers 4132 square feet of ground. It has six run
of burrs and three sets of rolls, and has the capacity of
manufacturing 1.30 barrels of flour per day. The annual
value of manufactured product is estimated at 821)0,000,
which is shipped mainly to New York and New Orleans.
The business furnishes its own barrels for shipment, and in
all employs twenty-five men. Its favorite brand of flour
is the •' Early Riser." At the Millers' Exhibition, in Cin-
cinnati, a few years ago, this brand of flour took the medal
of the world.
Sparta Woolen. Factovi;. — This industry was established
by James McClurken in 18.31-2, and was located on the
corner of Market and Jackson streets, in the south part of
the town. In 18.">:!, Thomas, a sou of the above, bought
out the business and conducted it until Ixill . when it passed
388
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
into the hands of the present proprietor, Matthew McClur-
ken. The business was conducteil in the old building until
1879, when Mr. McClurken purchased the factor)' of Kirk-
wood & Co., on South St. Louis street, and moved his ma-
chinery, etc , over there, where he is now operating. The
building is a two story brick, 54x74 feet, besides an engine-
room and dye house 30xG4 feet. The capital invested is
estimated at S15,000. The factory is what is known as a
"two-set" mill, with ten looms. The value of manufac-
tured product is from $50,000 to $76,000 annually. Twenty
persons are given employment by tiiis iudustry.
Sparta Plow Works were established in 1857, by F. R.
Crothers, and situated on Broadway between McMillan and
Vine streets. It is a brick building, the front being two
stories high, and 32 by 60 feet on the ground. Two one-
story buildings extend back, with an alley between, and
are 26 by 80 fiet. The capital invested is $25,000, and
1,200 plows and 200 harrows are manufactured in one year.
They are mainly sold in Southern Illinois. Eight men are
employed in the works.
Plow Manvjiidory, A. A. Burlingarae, proprietor. Mr.
Burlingame established in Eden in 1844, in the manufac-
ture of wagons, and merged into the plow business in 1859.
He moved his works to Sparta in 1866, and located on
Jackson street, between McMillan and Vine streets. The
building is a two-story frame structure, and with the entire
belongings covers 4420 square feet of ground. It is exclu-
sively engaged in the manufacture of plows and harrows, and
gives employment to nine men. The annual value of
manufactured product is about $12,000,
Stirrup Factory. — This industry was established by Hynd
man Brothers in the spring of 1882, and is situated on the
north side of East Broadway, near the Union Flouring
Mills. The building is a frame 24 by 48 feet in dimen-
sions, besides an engine-room 16 feet square. It has a capa-
city of manufacturing 200 dozen pairs of stirrups per week.
From seven to ten men are given employment. The ship-
ments are mostly made to the State of Texas. Its estima-
ted annual value of product is $5,000.
Brick Yard, Samuel Burns, proprietor. This is located
in East Broadway, opposite the Union Mills. It was
established in the spring of 1882, with one kiln and a capa-
city of turning out 200,000 bricks per year.
Coal Fields. — One of the most important industries of
Sparta and vicinity is the raining of coal. There are three
principal shafts: Boyd's, Dobbins', and Roseborough's. At
present the coal is raised by horse power, though the inten-
tion is to soon operate them by steam power. These shafts
are respectively 90, 160, and 25 feet in depth. The coal-
bed roof is black slate or " cannel," with occasionally sand-
stone or lime-stone. The floor is fire clay, while the depth
of vein is about 6 feet, and the quality of coal is the best in
the state. The most extensively worked mine is that of R.
H. Roseborough, situated in section 22, a few miles south-
east of the town. Thirty men are employed, and from 80 to
100 tons of coal is raised daily. The first coal was obtained
by drifting into the hillside, the coal cropping out at some
points in the hills south of town.
Bank. — Borders & Boyle, proprietors. This was estab-
lished in 1877, and located on the south side of Broadway.
It has a cash capital of $20,000, and is well prepared in
every way to do a safe banking business. It has a fire proof
vault, and McNeal & Urran's fire and burglar proof safe.
The School Building is situated in the north part of town,
bounded on the south and west by Main and St. Louis
streets. It is a fine brick building three stories in height>
and 63 by 83 feet on the ground. The play grounds are
commodious and well adorned wiih shade trees. The school
is divided into eight grades ; four primary, three intermedi-
ate and a grammar and high school department. Fourteen
teachers are employed, and there is a maximum of attend-
ance of about 650 pupils.
Broadway Hotel. — The city contains but one hotel at this
writing, and it is one of the best buildings in the town. It
was erected by a stock compaily in 1867, at a cost of $15,000.
It is located on the southwest corner of Broadway and St.
Louis streets. It is three stories, brick, and a store base-
ment, and has the capacity of accommodating seventy-five
guests G. W. Royce is the present efficient landlord.
The Illinois National Guards were organized in Dec.
1879, as company F, of the 11th regiment, but was sub-
sequently changed to company C , 9th regiment. The first
officers were, Captain G. B. McDonald ; 1st lieut., H. C.
McDill ; 2Dd lieut., W. E. McConachie ; l.st sergt,, C. C.
Hyndman ; 2nd sergt,, C. W. Miller ; 3rd sergt., R. L, Gaines ;
4th sergt, Thurston Taggart; 5th sergt., James Hartley;
1st corpl., J. F. Miller ; 2ud corpl , S. M. Frazier ; 3rd corpl. ,
T. W, Hill ; 4th corpl , James A. Ennis. The company,
when organized, had 47 members, and at this writing has
59. They are fully uniformed, and among the best drilled
in the state,
MERCANTILE HOVSES AND TRADE.
Drij Goods, Clothing, Hats, Caps, etc. — James Bottom,
Sproul Brothers, J. & R Hood, James H. Taylor.
Dry Goods. — Watson & Son, Daniel Burnett, Joseph
McHenry.
Clothing Stores. — William C. Barnett, Mrs. John Temple.
Groceries and Hardware. — William Brown, J. C, Perkins,
James H. Sherrard, W. J. Lyle, Chas. Stamm, Thomas N.
McCormack, Wm. H. Frazier, Jno. R. Allen, Stevenson &
Beattie, Borneman & Klene, G, W. Williams.
Hardware and Stoves. — Hamilton & Co.
Baker and Confectioner. — John A. Holdoway.
Furniture Dealers. — Taylor Bros,, William McLaughlin,
Eiker Brothers.
Watches, Clocks, and Jewelry. — A. B, Clifton, Joseph
Victor.
Agricultural Implements — Hamilton & Co., Burnett &
Sproul, M. E. Foster, Dickey & Bro., Daniel Morrison,
Chas. Oliver.
Drugs and Medicines. — N. R. Gordon, Eugene Grinslet,
J. and S. Alexander.
Books and Stationery. — James D. AVatson, Chas. Gardner,
William Chambers.
Shoe Stores. — William Anderson, George Graham, James
F. Hanson.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
389
Merchant Tailor. — Cbas. Stamm.
Tailor. — Henry Smith.
J/i7/fiierx.— Misses A. & E. Gibson, Misses McFarland &
McHenry, Miss Clara Brown, Mrs. H. Wolfington, Miss
Jennie McDill.
Dres.'i 3/«A-er«.— Misses McClurken, Miss Nancy Tenant,
Miss L. Anderson, Misses Lattimore, Mrs. J. Patterson, ami
the Misses Calvin.
Boot and Shoemak-er.—WM&m Telfert.
Blacksmiths S/iops.— McCormack & Son, Elias Perkins,
■William Liitle, Miller & Bro., C. & J. Levinston.
Harness and Saddlery.— James B. Jor.lon, .John T. Clen-
deniu, Samuel Neil.
Phij.'iiciuns.—li. R. Guthrie, D. S. Booth, C. M. Babcock,
S. R. Roynton, N. R. Gordon, J. W. Weir, L. Burgess, I. J.
Sanders.
Dentist — J. C. Simpson.
Photographers. — Louis Huebschman, John W. Minuer.
Livery and Feed StablfS.—J. A Miller & Co , J. S. Foster.
Stock Dealers and Shippers.— Fred Leiner, William Ros-
borough.
Mimcal In.itrninents.—J. C. Bratney, J. W. Minner.
Meat Miirkets.-Leiuer Bros., Robert Sinclair, J. Snyder.
Barbers.— Samuel W. Hunter, Geo. P. Taylor, Carter
Jackson.
Lumber Dealers. — Dickey & Brother.
Carpenters and Builders. — L Pyles, Robt. H. Rogers,
Robt. C. Wylie, Hugh Clark, Albert H. Hawthorn, Peter
Ireland, Jacob Lehnheir.
Painters and Glaziers. — Campbell it Son, \X. C. Orr.
Stone Masons. — James Wat.son, Thomas Lonigan.
i>'/-icA-/((i/«'rs.— William Skelly, S. W. Skelly. Joseph
Lattimore.
Postma.'<t'r. — James I). Watson.
There are also seven churches in the city : Reformed
Presbyterian, United Pre.sbyterian, Presbyterian proper,
New Light Covenanters, two M. E. churches— white and
colored— and the Baptist. All have comfortable houses ot
worship.
The city lies on a rolling piece of ground, and is well
supplied with good side walks, and excellent kept streets.
In the south part of the town is what is called "Brick
Town." This was laid otl' by William Rosborough several
years ago, and he will not sell a lot to anyone unless he will
obligate himself to build a good brick house. The result U
that this part of the town is one of the finest parts of th
city.
i^OCIETIES.
Hope Lodge, No. 1(32, A. F. and A. M , was chartered
Oct. 3, 18.55, with seven charter members. The present
membership is 53. The lodge is in good condition finan-
cially, owing one half of the present lodge-room. It meets in
Masonic hall every Friday night, on or before the full of
the moon in each month.
Staley Chapter, No. 103, R A. M , was chartered Oct. 5_
186t), having fourteen members. Present membership is 48.
It is in excellent condition financially, its assets being valued
at 81 200.
Sparta Lodge, No. 52, I. O. O. F., recewed its charter,
July 20, 1849, having five members. The present member-
ship is 35. Meets at Dickey's hall every Tuesday evening.
The lodge has 81. 100 iu the treasury, besides regalia .and
furniture estimated at 8300.
There are two colored lodges, the Heiinan iodjre. No.
21, A. F. and A. M., was organized June 21, 1875, with 31
members. The pre.sent membership is 19.
Sttphcn Lodge, Xo. 1 B. and F., was established June 12,
with 19 charter members. The present membership is 12.
EDEN
is a departed glory. It is situated on a high eminence of
ground in section five, a mile southeast of Sparta Samuel
Wylie located here in 1822. He soou afterwards established
a church of the Reformed Presbyterian denomination. The
little comnmuity grew and prospered, and in 1837, he and
his brother Adam laid out the town into village lots and
called it " Eden," on account of its beautiful situation. It
sub.sequently became the chief manufacturing town in this
part of Randolph county. At this writing it contains a
population of only about 150 inhabitants, about one half
colored. The only business is one store, Richard Watt,
proprietor, two blacksmith shops, owned and operated by
Milton Dickey and James Gaston.
RANDOLPH COUNTY AGRICUI.TUKAL BOARD.
This was established in 1852 by the enterprising farmers
of Flat Prairie. Early in the above year Messrs. Addison,
Crawford, Craig, Robertson, Brown, Beattie, and a few
others conceived the idea of establishing a fair association at
Sparta. They met, and Robert Brown was chosen presi-
dent, Jacob B. Beattie, treasurer, and William Addison,
secretary The first fair was held the third Wedneslay iu
October, 1852, on the farm of James Craig, two or three
miles northeast of town. The second fair was held at the
same place, and the third on the farm of William Robert-
son, near the place of the above. In 1855, the citizens of
Sparta joined hands with those of Flat Prairie, and Mr.
Matthew McClurken kindly gave, free, the use of his grove
a little south of the business part of the town, for the bene-
fit of the association for five years. Three successive fairs
were held on the ground, when the E.xecutive Board pur-
chased ten acres of land iu section 12, about one half mile
south of the city. About 1870, the association added five
acres to the original purchase, and has enlarged the track to
nearly one half mile. The grounds are enclosed with a good
fence, and contain all the buildings conveniens for conduct-
ing a successful display of all the products presented to the
average county fair. Fine shade trees adorn the ground,
and the water privileges are all that could be desired.
There are 137 excellent stalls, and other conveniences in
keeping with the grounds. The present ofiicers are : Presi-
dent, E. B. McGuire ; Secretary, John G. Taylor ; Treasurer,
C. C Hyndman ; Gen. Supt., R. R. Burns ; Chief Marshal,
A. K. Glenn ; Executive Com., W. C. Gordon William
Hood, R. R. Burns, John Anderson, and John Roscow,
B I O C4 H A P H I E S
/i^^^^Xl
Was born June 7th, 1820, in Jlifflinsburg, Union county,
Pennsj'lvania. His ancestors, paternal and maternal, were
Germans, and some of them emigrated from the Father-
land and settled in the eastern part of Pennsylvania in an
early day- His mother's maiden name was Gutelius. He
was left an orphan when quite young. An uncle, John P.
Gutelius, became his guardian and in his home he became
an inmate. After acquiring an academical education he
entered a printing office as an apprentice. After gaining
some proficiency as a typo he went to Columbus, Ohio, where
he engaged his services to Samuel Medary, the editor of the
Ohio Statesman. In 18.':!9, he met James Morrow and his
son Samuel (who is now a clergyman in Albany, N. Y.l
who were on their way to Columbus, now the city of Sparta,
Illinois, with a press and materials of a printing office, to
commence the publication of a newspaper at that place.
He accompanied them to their destination, where he has
ever since resided. In May, 1840, he purchased the office
and engaged in journalism. Finding it unprofitable he dis-
continued it in 1841. In May, 1842, he married Elizabeth
Jane Shannon, daughter of Robert G. Shannon, one of the
leading merchants of Sparta. She <lied in 1840. He spent
the winter following in Alabama and Mississippi. In No-
vember, 1850, he was elected a member of the State Legis-
lature from Randolph county, and in 18.52, he was elected
State Senator without opijosition, being engaged in mer-
cantile pursuits in which he had embarked the same year and
390
in which he had continued until 1869, during which time
much attention was given public aflairs. In 1858, he was
again elected to represent Randolph county in the Legisla-
ture. Until 1861, he acted with the Democratic party, but
was not in full sympathy with all of its measures. As a
legislator he was active and vigilant. A great friend of
education he aided the cause and was chairman of the com-
mittee on education when the first free school law of Illinois
was enacted. In May, 1861, he volunteered in the cause of
the Union, in the 22d Regiment, Illinois Volunteers, and
was elected captain of a company .raised in and around
Sparta. Other positions were tendered him, but failing
health compelled his resignation. In May, 1863, he was ap-
pointed Commissioner of the Board of Enrollment for the
12th Congression il District of Illinois, a position he re-
signed in December, 1«04. In March, 1869, he was appointed
Internal Revenue Collector for his district. The duties of
this position he filled with marked ability, collecting a larger
per cent, of the revenues during the time of his incumbency
than had ever been collected in the same time before. In
1873 he resigned. He was appointed a member of the
Board of Trustee of the Illinois Southern Hospital of the
Insane in 1877, a position he held until 1882, when he re-
signed. In every position he has ever held be has been
earnest, faithful and honest. He stands deservedly high in
the estimation of his party. His portrait, herewith pre-
sented, is from a likeness which was taken when he was a
member of the State Senate.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
3!)1
^J^cc^^c^e^ ^^^^^
Among those who left the " Faderlaml," severing all the
dear associations of family and home iu order to live uudir
a Republican form of Government, stands the name of Mr.
Gerlach. He was born September 9, 1835, in Bavaria, Ger-
many. In the spring of 1853, he left behind him father,
mother, brothers and sisters, and native land. He set sail
for the United States, thus gratifying a long cherished wish,
nursed from early boyhood. He came by way of New
Orleans, and up the Mississippi river, and after stopping a
short time with relatives at Carondelet, Mo., he came on to
Waterloo, Monroe county, and there commenced to work at
his trade, that of blacksmithing. He remained there three
yoars, ami then settled where he now resides. He immedi-
ately went to work" at his trade, improving with that
jieculiar zeal common to his people, and like them he has
prospered. In the foil of 1856, October 28, he was joined
in marriage to Miss Annie C. Baum, of Monroe county.
Daniel Gerlach was elected sheriff in 1876 and re-elected in
1878. He made a universally popular officer. He is a
•member of the Masonic order, in whose workings he takes
deep interest.
392
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
13 J^
JAMES B. ANDERSON
Was born April 2, 1825, and is the youngest son of James
and Mary Anderson, and resides upon the place of his birth.
Deprived of his father when but two years old, he owes all
to a mother's care. In temper and other characteristics he
was his father over again. His mother's exclusiveness and
disposition to make her home her kingdom, became his, by
choice, as well as inheritance. He was born in Illinois, but
at nine years of age, his widowed mother, to better her con-
dition, moved to Allegheny City, Pennsylvania. Five years
of cotton -factory life comprised a period, when his education
was only that given by a mother at night. The mixed
character of those that are collected as hands in factories,
was obnoxious to his mother, and was a spur to him to
win the confidence of all, and ally himself to none. This was
soon noticed by his employers, and rewarded by the position of
confidential messenger to the firm. The campaign of 1840
was so spirited, that old and young had their flags and cam-
paign songs. The factory firm were Whigs, and James B.
Anderson's mother's minister was a Whig, as well as Pres-
byterian. He became a Presbyterian and Whig. In 1842
he was brought back to the Illinois home, and very much
against his mind, farming was to be his pursuit in life. The
others, having families of their own, he and his mother occu-
^y^ ^y?^^U//^0^
pied the old home. His marriage with Matilda Nimock
November 4, 1857, was instrumental in bringing him into
active relation with the reforms of the day. He was active
alike in attairs of churches and schools, giving time and money.
The happy home his wife had made him was to be dismember-
ed and shadowed from time to time. The delicate wife mourn-
ing the loss of an infant child, in 1861, became more delicate,
and symptoms of paralysis were met, and check- d from time
to time. 1869 came in with forebodings. The young mother
longed to be spared to fulfill, to an only sou, her sacramen-
tal vow, "to train him for the Lord," but the physicians,
at her bed-side, answered, (softening of the brain) "At least
we can only ease your sufferings, the end is death." Seven-
teen weeks she lingered, and in the morning. May 5, she
died, answering, by signals, her husband's voice to the last.
The aged mother, now the housekeeper, took the mother's
place to the grandchild, but her prolonged stay, too, must
end. On September 16, 1876, James B. Anderson, with
none to care for, other than James C. Anderson, his wife'-s
legacy, became absorbed in his education — delicate like his
mother ; endeared to his father by much sufl'eriug, as well
as noble qualities, after attaining his majority, casting but one
vote as a citizen. His last visit to Sparta, was on Decoration
day, at evening ; he came home to die, and during his illness,
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
39:^)
when in fever, was anxious to join the procession, as the
music was in his ears. Attended day and night, by old and
young, he died August 25, 18.S1. His remains lie buried in
the Caledonia burying grounds. Shorn of all his family,
James B. Anderson lives comforted by the assurance that his
loss is their gain.
MARY ANDP:RS0N.
Mary (Beattie) Anderson, the subject of this sketch, was
born near Xewburgh, NY., on the 10th day of August, 1790.
Being the eldest daughter, she was early given such privi-
leges and opportunities as wealth and .social position war-
ranted. A Presbyterian ecclesiastically, home-training and
visiting friends of the faith made an impression on her mind
that was never reraovid. The Bible, the catechism, and the
Westminster Standards had a sure place in her father's
library. As taught by her parents, so she taught when
having a family of her own. AVhen our subject was about
seventeen vears old, her father anil family determined to
remove to Allegheny county. Pa. This was accomplished in
the old style, in covered wagons, camping out by the way.
The mountains retanled their journey, and made it seem
never-ending. Passing through Pittsburg across the Monon-
gahela, they stopped there one season, and nest year returned
and settled on the north bank of the Allegheny river, about
eight miles above the city. After a few more years of home-
training, she Wiis sent to the city of Pittsburg to learn needle-
work. In hat-binding and tailoring she gained the use of the
"needle" that was ever after a source ot income in years of
widowhood. Jan. 19, 181G, she was mariied to James An-
derson of Pittsburg, where they resided until about 1821,
when they and others seeking new homes came to Randolph
county, Illinois. They had at this time three children, Fran-
cis B., John H , and Mary J. James Anderson came West
to die an early victim of consumption. In their new home
three more children were born to them : Malinda M., James
B., and Sarah A. Mrs. Anderson's widowhood dates from
July 3d, 1827. Iler's was a two fold grief, as her youngest
child had died the previous month. Sore tried but com-
forted by many friends, her young family had to be provided
for. Her needle made an income, together with the rent of
the farm, that made her situation endurable. This was
continued until prompted by friends in the East to return
among them. Assenting to their request, she leased the farm,
made sale of personal estate, and in 18:i4 moved back, mak-
ing her home in Allegheny city. This period just preceded
the " bard times." She, as ever %elf reliant, with three of her
children in the cotton factory, met the crisis like many
another mother, with tired fingers and aching heart. Eight
years of town life, and her family about all grgwn up, her
resolution was to return West to the farm. The move was
made in 1842.
She had the benefit of a strong constitution ; this, and
a well-cultivated mind, gave her an equipoise of temper,
added to a daily trust in the Divine supervision, and was
the secret of her success during 49 years of widowhood Her
two eldest sons having removed to Kan.sas, her home was
with her youngest (James B. Anderson), who with the only
50
living daughter TMrs. R. Jack), waited on and carried the
remains to " Bethel burying-ground," near .Sparta. 3Irs. A.
died ."September I'iih, 1^70, nged 80 years, o7 days, mourned
and remembered by many friends.
The following are her surviving children : Francis B.
Anderson, Wyandotte city, Kansas ; John H. Anderson,
Tabor city. Clay county, Kansas ; Mary J. Jack, Colfax,
McLean couutv, Illinois ; James B. Anderson, Sparta,
Illinois.
WILLIAM P. MURPHY
Is a native of Tennessee, having been born in Lincoln
county, that state, November 11th, 1828. When he was
scarcely a year old, his parents came to Illinois, locating in
Sparta. When a young man the Judge took up with mer-
chandizing, first as clerk. In 1855, he commenced the study
of law. In this Hosmer of Nashville and Fouke of Belle-
ville were his preceptors. He was admitted to the bar in
1856, and was the same year elected Treasurer of Randolph
county. In 181)9. he was elected Judge of the cjmmon pleas
court of Sparta and in 1877, Jud.e of the county court. In
each of these offices he acquitted himself with credit. He
was married to Mary J. Frush, in October 1849. To them
have been born Clarinda J. Emer L. (who died May 4th,
1880), Everette J. (present sheriff of the county), William
H., mail agent, U S. service, Ptolemy H. and Philip F.
Pearl and Alice, (dead). Judge Murphy is a tried and true
Republican, having upheld the principles of that party ever
since its inception. He is a faithful member of the Metho-
dist Episcopal church. An honest man ; a true citizen, he
holds the respect of all.
CAMPBELL BROS.,
THEenterpri^ing editors and publishers of the "Sparta Plain-
dealer," are both young men of energy and business push.
Charles M., the elder of the two, was born in St. Louis,
Missouri, January 27th, 1853. Early in life he learned his
father's occupation, that of a carriage and car painter. He
obtained a fair education, being a graduate of the Sparta
High School, and having attended a short time the Southern
Illinois Normal L'niversity, at Carbondale. George H. wa.s
born in St. Louis, August 9, 1855. When about fifteen
years of age he entered the home printing office in Sparta,
and learned the art of printing. Having gained some pro-
ficiency as a type-setter, he went to Monmouth. Illinois, where
he became a compositor on the "Atlas"; from thence to
Moline, on the '' Reverie," and from there in turn to St.
Louis, where he entered the office of the " Times," returning
to Sparta in 1880. He was married February 25 1880, to
Miss Marian Cr.iwford, daughter of Bricj Crawford, one of
the old settlers of Randolph county.
The parents of the members of this firm were Louis H.
and Mary Campbell (nee Scott). Louis II. Campbell was a
native of Vermont ; he left his home in Middlebury in 1850,
going first to St. Louis, and from thence to Sparta, in 1856,
where he has since resided. Campell Bros, purchased the
Plaindealer" in 1880, and are publishing one of the neatest
394
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
and best papers in this part of the state. They particularly
pride theraselvea upon the typographical appearance and
outspoken, honest sentiments of the " Plaindealer." Under
their management the paper is prosperous. The cause of
Kepublicanisra has been abetted no little through its agency.
JOHN MICHAN
Was born in Philadelphia, Penn., Nov. 1st, 1822. His
pareuts were both natives of Ireland, though they traced
their ancestry to Scotland. They came to this country in
1820. In 18.']7 they moved to Washington county, Illinois,
where John, though but fifteen years of age obtained a posi-
tion as teacher. He next entered a store as clerk, in which
position he remained two years, dropping it to take up car-
riage and wagon making. In 1852, he went by overland
route to Oregon; first to Portland, where he found no work,
then to Oregon City, with the same result. Being met here
by a stranger, who evidently took an interest in him, heat-
tended him to his home and the next day was rejoiced to
find in the stranger a friend indeed as he secured fur him a
school, upon the duties of which he at once entered as teach-
er. In 1854 he returned and put into execution a resolution
formed in Oregon, to study law. He secured a few books_
and alternated his study with labor. Three years thereafter,
he was admitted to practice at the bar. He soon rose to
prominence in his profession, and has built up a large prac-
tice. In 1862, he was appointed Master in Chancery for his
county, a posilion he held for two years. In 1868, he was
elected States' Attorney for his district, on the the Republi-
can ticket. In this election a high compliment was paid
his legal abilities, in that he overcame a majority of 1400
votes.
Mr. Michan is a self-made man, has attained to a profound
knowledge of the law ; is a good speaker, cogent, close rea-
soner, and receives recognition as an able lawyer.
He was married to Miss Margaret Alexander, a native of
Randolph county January 21st, 1845.
J. C. HAWTHORNE,
A NATIVE of Randolph county, was born near the village
of Blair. A common school education was supplemented
by attendance in the Illinois State Industrial University at
Champaign 1873 74 ; McKendree College in 1875, and
when Dr. Allyn, its President, was called to a similar posi-
tion in the Southern Illinois Normal University, at Carbon-
dale, Illinois, Mr. Hawthorne was one of the pupils to follow
his preceptor. From this institution he graduated in June,
1876. Having chosen the profession of law he attended
Union Law College, a branch of Chicago University, from
which he graduated May 27 ih, 1880. Immediately after he
engaged in practice in connection with Messrs. Steele and
Jones in the city of Chicago, and after six months came to
Sparta and located in the practice. His father, James Haw-
thorue, was born iu Preble county, Ohio, April 16th, 1816.
Was brought by his family to Illinois, 1819, who located on
a farm where Evansville now stands. When a boy, some
Indians came to the house, when his parents were at church,
and stole all the bread to be found except three pieces.
The children ran up stairs to secrete themselves where they
were followed by an Indian who counted their number on his
fingers and had a piece of bread left for each. He died
April 18th, 1866.
J. C. Hawthorne is a young man of steady habits and
much force of character, and has the qualifications necessary
make a successful lawyer.
REUBEN J. GODDARD.
Among the members of the Randolph bar, none deserve
more honorable mention than Reuben J. Goddard. He is a
native of the county, and has always recognized it as his
home. At the age of sixteen he commenced a course of
study at the Union Academy, at Sparta, a religious institu-
tion under the management of the United Presbyterian
church, afterward dissolved in favor of Monmouth college,
in the northern part of the State.
At the age of seventeen he entered Michigan University
at Ann Arbor, where after remaining until the age of nine-
teen, he began the study of law in which he graduated in
1864. He immediately began the practice of h'u profession
in Sparta, and by close application to his books and busi-
ness, he has established a large and lucrative practice. In
1870 he was appointed Prosecuting Attorney of the Common
Pleas court at Sparta, an office abolished by the new Consti-
tution. In November, 1872, he was elected to the office of
State's Attorney for Randolph county. Iu 1876 he was re-
elected to the same oflice. The duties of this position he
discharged with signal ability.
In his political views he is conservative, yet in the heat of
a campaign active and outspoken. He identified himself
with the Democratic party upon attaining his majority, and
has ever since aided and abetted her cause, by voice and
vote. Ambitious to excel in professional life he devotes his
energies to its prosecution.
Mr. Goddard was united in marriage to Miss Emma Ker,
November 30th, 1875, by whom he has one child, a boy,
Willie D. Goddard. His wife is an accomplished musician,
possessed of a rare voice.
Mr. Goddard's father, William B. arrived in this county
when an infant, as early as 1819. He died in 1875 in the
little town of Evans, Colorado, where he had gone fiir the
benefit of his declining health. He was married in this
county, near Kaskaskia, to Miss Eliza Hawthorne, daughter
of James Hawthorne, one of the old pioneers of Randolph,
and a very prominent and leading citizen, and who filled at
various times a number of public offices. He was intimate-
ly connected with all the enterprises looking toward the
improvement and development of the county and its resour-
ces. Afier his marriage, Mr. Goddard moved to the
vicinity of Sparta, which was tis home at the time of his
death. During his life he followed at diflerent times the
occupations of farmer, merchant, builder and architect, and
was an active Justice of the Peace about twenty years.
For many years he was a prominent member of the Presby-
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
395
terian church, in which he was noted for his uevotion and
exemplary piety. He was not very successful in the
accumulation of property, but was nevertheless a fair liver.
He took great pride iu his family, and nothing gave him
more pleasure than the prosecution of plans promoting the r
advancement in intellectual, social and moral culture He
gave his children that which is of infinitely more value than
property, a good education and proper ideas of the true ends
and duties of life.
Of the brotheis and sisters of Reuben J , James H. is a
practising Attorney at Sedgwick, Kauas, Albert is a printer,
Sarah E , now the wife of I'orter Morrison lives near
Monmouth, Illinois, and Eveline L. wife of Mayron Camp,
resides near WichitP, Kansas.
His grandfather.William Goddard, was an early settler of
Kentucky, and was a soldier in the United States service,
during the war of 1812, and was afterwards employed as a
ranger in defense of the white settlers of Illinois against the
Indians, and was finally killed in a skirmish with the
savages, near the old Indian town of Cahokia, St. Clair
county He was a fearless and brave man, and did much
in holding in check the incursions of the red-men in their
depredations on the whites. His progenitor in town was an
old Continental soldier, who faithfully served his country
through its struggle for independence.
The Hawthorne family are of Scotch origin, and derived
the name from a shrub of thick undergrowth in the moun-
tains of Scotland, where the old Scots were in the habit of
retreating, when vancjuistied on the plains during their wars ^
with the Danes. Its bestowal upon the famil}- was because
of the leading part they took during the wars. They were
afterwards among the persecuted for conscience sake. Some
of their number found their way to this country in time to
participate in the revolution of 1776.
c^:^'^^^^'^^:^
MITCHIE
MONROE COUNTY.
lECEIVED its name from the
Mitchegamie Indians, who a'
one time inhabited the bottom
in the extreme south part of
Monroe county. Three ancient
grants of land were made by
the French within the lim-
its of the precinct. One of
these, claim 1753, survey 706,
wascoiiceded to Franyois Ilen-
nett dit Sauschagrin, and is
described as ten arpents in front,
extending from the hills to the Mississippi, situatc<l at the
Prairie Apocquois. Chalfin bridge is on the upper end of
thisgrant. ('laim 12«3, survey 707, was granted to Fran^'ois
Noyze dit Labc, and also extended from the Mississippi to
the hills, and is described as situated in the Prairie Apocquois.
Claim 17.J3 was owned, in 1809, by Joseph Hennett, and
claim 1283, at that date, had passed into the possession of
John Rice Jones, a prominent lawyer, of Kaskaskia. Claim
263, survey 769, was an old French grant to Deville, (or
Villiers), and in 1809 was owned by Peter Menard. That
part of the bottom, between Chalfin bridge'and the river,
was called by the French the Prairie Apocquois, from the
Indians who lived there in early times.
The old French grants were not necessarily founded on
the improvement, or cultivation, of the soil. It is evident
that a Frenchman, named Louis Pillet La.sond, made a set-
tlement at an early day on the river in the neighborhood of
the present Ivy landing. Claim 2046, survey 736, was
granted to him on account of an improvement he had there
made. Claim 633, survey 484, at the blufl', near Chalfin
bridge, was granted to Louis Villard, in right of his im-
provement. Other grants show the early American settle-
ments. The first improvement on claim 828, survey 467,
was made by James Scott; on claim 5.57, survey 055, by
Raphael Drury; on claim 760, survey 486, by William
Howe; on claim 770, survey 483, by Elizabeth Labushe ;
on claim 768, survey 448, by Charles Gill ; on claim 2623,
survey 097, by Henry O'Harra; on claim 615, survey 485,
by Isaac Chalfin; on claim 1618, survey 698, by William
Chalfin, and on claim 495, survey 701, by Josiah Ryan.
Claim 316, survey 70J, on part of which Maeysville is now
built, is an improvement right granted to James McRoberts.
One of the most noted of the pioneer settlers, of
Mitchie precinct, was Nathaniel Hull. He was born and
raised in Massachusetts, and acquired a good education.
About the year 17'^0. in company with several other young
men, he came to Illinois. He descended the Ohio, and
landed at a place afterward called Hull's landing, from
which he opened a road across the country to Kaskaskia,
which afterward became the main traveled way. He
bought the improvement right of Elizabeth Labushe, claim
770, survey 483, at the foot of the bluff, just below the pres-
ent Chalfin bridge, and there settled. A iiiv! years after his
arrival he married into the O'Harra family. The place of
his settlement was where Christopher Fults now lives. He
bought a farm of considerable size under cultivation, and
built a block house. He was commonly the leader of the
companies raised in the neighborhood to protect the settle-
396
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
ment from Indian depredations, and soon acquired the title
of Captain Hull. A post-office and small store were estab
lished at the block-house. This post-office was probably the
first within the limits of Monroe county. He btcame a Jus
tice of the Peace, and Judge of the Randolph County Court
In 1794 he revisited Massachusetts. On his return his
brother, Daniel Hull, came with him, and settled in the
bottom He died in the year 1806.
The Worleys came to Illinois with the first American im-
migration Joseph Worley made an improvement north of
Bellefontaine, and received a grant of four hundred acres of
land, included in claim .562, survey 640. This is the farm
on which Joseph W. Drury now lives, and was in the own-
ership of the heirs of Worley till September, 1809, when his
son?, John, Joseph, and William, sold it to Enoch Moore.
James Worley was killed by the Indians in the American
Bottom in Mitchie precinct in 1789. From Bellefontaine
the Worleys moved to the bottom, and made early settle-
ments at the foot of the blufi". John and William Worley
lived at the mouth of the hollow at Chalfin bridge, and there
raised families. Their farms were in claim 63;5, survey 484.
The stream which flows out of the hollow, now known as
Maeysville creek, was then called Worley's creek. Joseph
Worley, Jr., settled a couple of miles below Chalfin bridge,
near the bluff, on what was afterward known as the Master-
son place. The old house, now standing on this place, was
built by Benjamin Masterson, who moved here from Harri-
sonville. He gave his name to Masterson lake, now mostly
drained and under cultivation. At this place, also, lived Dr.
Carribine, an Irish gentleman, who lived here many years
and practiced medicine. At this point, Masterson, at one
time, kept a small store.
The Chaifins (the name is commonly spelled by early
members of the family " Chaffin ") settled in the bottom,
where Chalfin bridge now is, in the year 1796. They came
from England, Isaac Chalfin and his son William, and first
settled in Pennsylvania, near Harrisburg, and from there
came to Illinois. Isaac was an old man at the lime he left
England. He was blind for several years, but regained his
eyesight previous to his death. James Chalfin, a brother
of William Chalfin, removed from Pennsylvania to Illinois
about the same time with the other members of the family.
Coming up the Mississippi they got out of provision, and
landed, sending a man to Hull's fort for assistance and pro-
visions. On his return to the boat the whole crew was
found massacred. The Indians had mangled the bodies
cruelly, and of some the tongues had been cut out. This is
said to be the same massacre in which Mrs. Neff, the mother
of John Moredock, was killed. James Chalfin and his
whole family were among the victims. Selh Chalfin son of
William Chalfin, was born on the old Chalfin place, lived
there during his life, and died in 18.38. He built the
Klein house near Chalfin bridge. Nathaniel Chalfin went
to California in 1849. Five generations of the Chai-
fins are now buried in the old graveyard, under the bluff,
near Chalfin Bridge. The first settlement made on the up-
land in this precinct was by James McRoberts, claim 316,
survery 704, but he settkd permanently, at an early day,
on claim 315, survey 703, which was given him as a militia
donation. He was born near Glasgow, in Scotland, in May,
1760. He emigrated to America at the age of twelve, and
settled in Philadelphia. When eighteen years old he be-
came a soldier on the side of the colonies in the war of the
Revolution and served until the close of the war. He was
married iu the year 1787, and the next year settled in Ken-
tucky on the Ohio river. In 1786 he came to Kaskaskia,
where he remained till 1797. During his first visit to Illi-
nois he settled temporarily on claim 316, and made some at-
tempt to place land under cultivation, which entitled him
to the grant of land he subsequently obtained. He came
back to Illinois and settled on claim olo, a mile north of
where Maeysville now stands, which was afterward his home
for nearly half a century. The same year of his settlement
here {1798j he built a dwelling-house, which is still stand-
ing and is probably the oldest house now in the county. In
this house his children were born, among them Josiah Mc-
Roberts, who became a prominent member of the bar, and
Samuel McRoberts, the first native-born citizen of the state
elected to the United States Senate from Illinois. Judge
McRoberts devoted himself with much industry to his farm.
He served as a justice of the peace for many years, and was
also elected county judge. His death occurred in 1844, and
his widow survived him several years " His son, Samuel
McRoberts, was born in 1799. He attended a school kept
by Edward Humphrey in the bottom near Chalfin Bridge.
At the age of twenty he became clerk of the Monroe County
Circuit Court, and in 18"24 was elected Circuit Judge bv the
State Legislature. He filled several other public positions,
and in 1840 was elected United States ^enator. He died
at Cincinnati in 1843, while on his way home from Wash-
ington. Two children of James McRoberts are still living.
Josiah McRoberts is a resident of Joliet, and the youngest
daughter, Mary, the widow of Major Xerxes F. Trail, lives
in the county.
David Waddle owned claim 768, survey 448, at the
beginning of the present century. On part of this claim,
Isaiah Levins, who married a daughter of William Chalfin,
lived for some years in early times. About a mile below
Nathaniel Hull's place, under the bluff lived Colonel Wil-
liam Alexander. He acquired his military title in his ser-
vice against the Indians. He was a justice of the peace,
and a man of some wealth and standing in the community.
At Hull's old place, Oilman Jewett once lived. He mar-
ried a daughter of Colonel Alexander.
One of the oldest places along the river is the farm now
owned by Louis Ihorn, a mile above Ivy Landing. It is
included in the old French grant, made to Deviile or Vil-
liers, and from him passed into the possession of Colonel
Pierre Menard, of Ka-ska-kia. In 1803. Thomas Marrs lo-
cated here. He came to Illinois from Kentucky in the year
1797, accompanjing Judge James McRoberts in a boat
down the Ohio. He first lived near Cahokia, and then be-
tween Waterloo and Whiteside's station. During the Indian
troubles in 1811, the family found refuge in Whiteside'.s
Fort He subsequently returned to Kentucky. He only
had one son who died at the age of twenty, and twelve
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
397
daughtTS. Abigail married Abner Carr. Lucinda, now Mrs.
Eli Wiley, is living in Jeflerson county, Missouri Phabe
niarrit-d Robert Miller iu the year 18-J2, and is still living,
and is one of the oldest residents of the county. She ivas
born below Cahokia, in the American Bottom, on the twenty-
fifth of December, 1800. Her husband, Robert Miller,
whom she married in 1822, came from Kentucky, and the
family settled iu the northwest part of Mitchie preoinct, on
the river near where Austin Janus now lives. Reuben Mil-
ler made the first improvement here, and it was the earliest
settled place on the river between liarrisouville and Ivy
landing. Mrs. Miller remembers the first steamboat that
ascended the Mississippi. It was the " General Pike," and
reached St. Louis on the second of August, 1817. She was
married to Robert Miller in 18'22.
Along the blutt'in this precinct is a spacious cave known
as Saltpetre cave. Saltpetre was collec ed here for the man-
ufacture of powder, and hoppers were arranged to catcli the
drippings from the rocks This was one of the last places of
resort for the Indians in this part of the State. When they
moved away from Kaskaskia several frequented the cave,
and used it for a shelter and sleeping place.
One of the early school teachers in Illinois had a school
in the neighborhood of Chalfin Bridge. This was Edward
Humphrey; he taught school here as early as 180.').
MAEYSVILLE.
Maeysville may be .said to have begun its growth as a
town from the year 18-52, when Jacob Maeys here built a
saw mill. The site of the town was known as the McRob-
erts meadow tract, and was purchased by Mr. Maeys in 1848.
For a year after its construction the mill remained idle on
account of there not being sulEcient water to drive it.
Steam engines were then put in place, and the mill success-
fully operated. The first store was opened iu 18.58 by Jacob
Maeys in partnership with Judge Abraham Pos'on By
this time some half a dozen houses had been erected in the
place. A town had been surveyed and laid off in 18.56 by
Mr. Maejs, and called Maeysville. A post-office was estab-
lished in 18G:J by the name of Maeystown. Jacob Maeys
was appointed postmaster and has retained the office ever
since. Mr. Maeys purchased Judge Poston's interest in the
store and became sole proprietor in 1867. A steam flouring
mill was built by Jacob Pilgeran<l Mr. Coleman. It passed
into the possession of Anton Zeitiiiger who owned it at the
time it was burned down in 1868. The building was then
purchased by Jacob Maeys, William Maeys, Jacob Hoff-
man, Jacob S. Jobb, George Hoffman, William Iloeft and
Dr. Charles Wilhelniy. The mill was rebuilt in 188(» and
made ready for machinery, but has never been put in opera-
tiim. St. John's Evangelical Church was completed in 1866.
The Rev. Edwaril Jacob Hosto is the pastor. There is no
public school nearer to the town than a mile, and most of
the children attend a school carried on under the care of the
pastor of the church. Dr. Charles Wilhelmy has been en-
gaged ill the practice of medicine in the village s nee ]8.)8.
His son. Dr. Charles Wilhelmy, Jr , is now also establi.-hed
here as a ph/sician. The town contains about twenty five
dwelling-houses. There is one store ( f which Jacob ISIaeys
is proprietor. The other business interests are represented
by Charles Siebermann, wagonmaker ; Henry Wippemanu,
merchant tailor ; Jacob G. Jobb, saddler and harness maker ;
Lewis Krone, shoemaker; and George Hoffman, black-
smith.
CH.^LFIN BIUDCK.
In the neighborhood of Chalfin Bridge is the old Chalfin
farm, and the small bridge that crosses what is now called
Maeysville creek, but what was known t ) the pioneer settlers
as Worley's creek, gave the post-office established at this
point its present appellation. There is a store of which
Nicholas Kohnz and William Keckritz are proprietors.
Nicholas Kohnz owns a blacksmith shop, and William Bade
carries on business as a wagon maker. The post-office is
supplied with ihe mail three times a week, and Mr. Kohnz is
postmaster.
IVY I,ANI>I.\i;.
Ivy Landing, formerly known as Goodman's Landing, is
on the Mississijjpi in the. extreme south part of Mitchie pre-
cinct, and is an important shipping point. A post-office by
the name of Ivy was established in 187-4. George W.
Cavanaugh was the fir.-t postmaster ; Smith H. Brickey now
has charge of the office. Mr. Brickey and Zeno Aubuchon
have carried on the mercantile business since 1874. There
is a blacksmith shoj), and the place in all contains about
half a dozen buildings.
BIOGRAPHY.
J. WM. GOODMAN.
Was born in Waj'ne county, lllinoi?, on the 30th of May,
1840; he was the son of J. Martin Goodman and Lucinda
Goodman {nee Conn). Lucinda Conn was of German de-
scent, and the daughter of James Conn, who settled in the
eastern part of this State before its admission into the
Union. J. Martin Goodman was elected Captain of a Com-
pany during the Mexican War, under command of Col C.
Tarhara, but peace being declared, his Company returned
home without active engagement with the enemy. He had
a family of four children, !'i2; Martha J., J. William, (the
subject of this sketch), John and Henry— the last named
lives in Louisville, Kentucky. Martha is the wife of J. WjiUs,
a resident of Arkansas, and John is deceased.
William Goodman, father of J. Martin (niodman, and
grandfather of our subject, was of German extraction, and
settled in Wayne county, this State, as early as the year
1S'>3. He was married in Knoxville, Tennessee, to MirS
Martha Gunu, a sister of the celebrated Dr. Gunn, author
of Gunn's Medical Works. Wm. Go'dman was a resident
of Illinois for about twenty years, and subsequently removed
to Missouri. J. Wm. Goodman came to Monroe county at
the age of fourteen, where he has since continued to reside.
On October 25th, 1860, he was united in marriaee to Miss
Delitha Cheek, daughter of John Cheek, an old settler of
this county ; this lady died in 1865. Mr. Goodman again
married in 1879 a Miss Elizabeth Crittenden, by whom he
has one child. He has followed the business of farming all
his life, and has been successful ; by persevering industry
and economy he has acquired a well-improved and cultiva-
ted farm; a view of his residence and surroundings can be
seen in another portion of this work. In politics JMr. Good-
man is a Republican.
►^^S^f^^-
RED BUD
RANDOLPH CO.
'his precinct lies in the northwestern
part of the county, and is bounded on
the north and west by Monroe county,
on the east by the Kaskaskia river, and
on the south by Ruma precinct and
Horse creek. Its territDry embraces the
greater portion of town 4 south, range
8 west, and that part west of the Kas-
kaskia river, in town 4, range 7, north
of the southern line of sections, and contains about thirty-
four sections of land. It receives its name from t^e city of
Red Bud, the only town in the precinct. Originally, it was
about two thirds rich, rolling prairie, with good timber
bordering on the Kaskaskia and the breaks of Horse creek.
The prairie received its name — "Horse prairie"— in the
early days of the settlement of Kaskaskia and Prairie
du Rocher. The horses of the French settlers would escape
and seek the prairies for grazing, and as this was one of the
most productive in the region, it was a favorite resort for the
wandering animals.
The surface is undulating, sufficient for good natural
drainage. The Kaskaskia on the east, with the tributaries
398
emptying into it, affordj excellent drainage in that part of
the precinct, while Horse creek and its branches in the south
and west, form a complete waterway for that section of its
territory. The Cairj and St. Liuis railway enters the pre-
cinct from the west, in section 6, extends in a southeasterly
course, and crosses the Kaskaskia in section 16; thus fur-
nishing transportation facilities to the citizens of Red Bud
and vicinity.
EARLY SETTLEMENTS.
From indications yet not extinc*, and from all history that
can be gleaned at the present time, the first settlements made
in this precinct were in sections five and six, town 4, range 7,
near the prominent bluffs on the Kaskaskia. In the year,
1795, John J. Whiteside, and a few others located on the
bluff in section five, where a small town was laid oflT and
called Washington. A beautiful panorama of field and
prairie can be viewed from this site, overlooking Horse
Prairie, at the west. The inhabitants of Washington enclos-
ed fields and engaged in stock raising and agriculture. The
houses were mere log cabins, but the town was laid out with
regular streets, and took on the general appearance cf a
frontier village. Conspicuous among the inhabitants were the
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
"G.iing" families. Th-y wtre emigrants from Kentucky,
and on fir^t coming to Illinois stopped for a short time
a little distance south we t of Bellefoataine, where they
erected a fort. A little later ihey came to the town of
Washington. They consisted of the father and son, both
having families and were blacksmiths by trade, and
proved useful citizens to the little colonv- Another re-ident
of the town, was .John Grosvenor. He was a native of Con-
necticut, and located here in 1799. He wasast )ne-ma.«on by
trade, la the same year, John Pulliam located in the vil-
lage. He tmignted from Kentucky in 179G, and first
stopped at New Design, iu Monroe county. A year later,
he moved to a point west of St. Louis, and in 179'.l, came to
the town of Washington While here he cultivated a farm,
near the town. He had a large family, and several of his
descendants are citizens of the state. In 1SL)2, he removed
to Monroe county, and finally made a plantation on the
Kaskaskia. in S . Clair County, where he died in 181,3.
Late in the ftll of 1797, the families of William Scott
and his son-in-law, Jarvis, located in the town. They were
from Kentucky. They remained here but a few months,
then moved to Monroe county. The " old man " Scott died
at Turkey Hill in St- Clair county, in 182S, at the age of
eighty-two years. The town of Washington by common
consent changed its name to that of '' Horse Prairie Town,"
under which name it lingered and ditd about 18U).
Twenty-five years later, another little town sprang up, and
was called Lafayette. This was situated on or near the old
site of Washington. At one tfrae it contained one store
kept by John Ralls; a saw mill owned and operated by
J. & K. Ralls, and a population of eight or ten families.
It, too, has passed away, with scarcelj- a relic to tell where
it once stood, .\mong others who settled on Horse Prairie
as early as l."<0(), were Robert McMahan, Jarrot Brickey,
Samuel and Winder Kinney, Chance Ratcliti", Gibbons,
Teter, Everraan and Henrj' Levins. McMahan was an
emigrant from Kentucky, and first lorateil in New Dij.sign,
Monroe county, in 1794 A year later he moved his family
to "Yankee Prairie," a few miles southeast in thesame county.
He is mentioned more at lengih inother portionsof the work.
Jarrot Brickey was a native of Virginia, and while a
youth went to Kentucky, and from thence to Illinois in a
very early day, and located in the '■ New Design Settle-
ment." About 1800, he mived to Horse Prairie, aud set-
tled a little northeast of the present site of Red Bud. For
a time this little settlement was so harassed by Indians
that nearly all the pioneers left it and moved to other re-
gions, only two or three families remaining. Among these
was Mr. Brickey. This was about 1810. In the war of
1812, the Indians became more bold and troublesome than
before, but these hardy few stood their groum), and braved
the dangers of those times which tried the souls of the pio-
neers Mr. Brickey joineil the Rangers, aud did faithful
service in protecting the frontier. He lived an industrious,
respected citizen of Horse Prairie for nearly half a
century, and died lamented by many friends His eldest
son, Preston B , was also in the service of 1812. He located
a little north of Red Bud. Two of his sons, John and
William, purchased the Red Bud flouring mills, and for
many years were among the leaiiing business men of the
city. They moved to other parts about two years ago.
Another pioneer was Rawleigh Ralls, a Sc tchman by birth.
He emigrated with his family from Virginia to Randolph
County in 1804, and located in section 6, township 4, range
7, not far from the Kaskas^kia. This is a high, rolling
ridge of ground, and from this pioneer that part of the pre-
cinct retains the name of Ralls' Ridge The pioneer chil-
dren were two sons and five daughters Mr. R. lived but a
few years. His wife survived him about ten years The
sins, Edward and John, marrie<l here and reared families.
The latter became i)Mite a prominent local Baptist preacher
in early days. He died in 18.57. Edward became a promi-
nent farmer, and died early in 1875.
Samuel Crozier came from South Carolina in 1808, and
located three miles south of Evausville, where he died The
eldest son, John C, cane to Red Bud in 1820, and settled
in section 8, town 4, range 8. He was then a young mar-
ried man without children. Only two of his children are
now living, John L. and Caroline, wife of R. D. Durfee.
The former is now -59 years of age, and resides on the farm
where he «as born, now within the city limits of Red Bud.
He says that he can recollect, when a small boy, that in
this region of the country there were a dozen Indians to one
white man, and that deers, wolves anil wild turkeys were
numerous.
Chesley Allen settled here in 1809. He came from
Virginia, and several of his descendants are now citizens of
the county. After the close of the war of 1812, the Indians
became less hostile, and there was quite an influx of immi-
gration. Among these was Edward Faherty, a native of
Ireland. He landed at Baltimore in 1800, being then but
seventeen years of age He afterwards married Mary
Tewell, and moved to Kentucky. Early in 1818, he
migrated to Randolph county and located in section twenty-
one, town four, range eight. He erected a log cabin at the
edge of the prairie. His family then consisted of his wife
an I six children, Patrick, Bridget, Birtholomew, John,
Mary and Micha 1, all of whom are now dead. Two other
children were born to the family, .James and Edraond. Mr.
Faherty remained here until his death, which occurred in
1840. James resides on the place his father first located.
Edmond lives in Red Bud. Both are congenial men, and
fair types of the hospitable pioneer. John Adams was
from Kentucky, and settled in section twenty, town four,
range seven, in 1819. Shelton Evans and Levi Simmons
settled at a point below Kaskaskia in 1819. In 182.J, they
moved to Horse Prairie. Another early settler, is Henry
O'Harra of Red Bud, who is now engaged iu the lumber
trade. For the history of the O'llarras, see Runia chapter.
Among other prominent citizens of the precinct at this
writing, and who would rank as being with those of a more
recent date are, David Ohlwine, and the descendants of
Bartholomew Hoy, and Timothy Liddy.
Believing that the first land entries will prove of interest
to the reader, we here append a few. The first entry made
in town four, range eight, was by W. Rector and E. Ban-
400
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
croft, April 14th, 1815, being the S E. oiie-fcjurth of sec-
tion No. 1. The following are in the same township:
Checquer and others, eutered the S. E. one-fourth of section
twelve, the 29th of April, 1815. Paul Haralson entered
the S. E. one- fourth of section twenty-five, April 24th of the
same year. The first school taught in the precinct was by
John C. Crozier about 1826. The school-house was a little
pule cabin that had been abandoned by a squatter. It was
situated north of Red Bud, near th<j county line. About this
time there was a small frame church house erected in the
Brickey and Ralls' settlement. The denomination was the
Baptist. John Ralls, the pioneer, was the first pastor.
Near where this old church building was situated may be
found an ancient cemetery. It was here that the first inter-
ments were made. The first facilities or conveniences for
milling purposes in the immediate neighborhood of this
precinct, was erected by Edmond Falierty at his premises
in section t«emy-one. This was in 1825. It was what
was then known as a "horse band mill," and served an
excellent purpose. The first to give attention to the rai,<ing
and propagating fine stock was Edward Ralls. At this
writing the leading stuck mm are. Judge William iMudd,
and John and Daniel Liddy. According to the late census,
the population of Red Bud precinct numbered 2,554 inhabi-
tants, composed mainly of a thrifty German population.
CITY OF RED BUD.
In order to give the history of this town properly, it is
necessary to go back a few years — 1838 — a d give an ac-
count of the little town of PrairieviUe, which would, un-
doubtedly, have been the town to-day if good judgment had
been exerci.-'ed by its proprietors. This nucleus for a town
was situated in section 16, a mile or two south of Red Bud,
and was laid out by J. \V. Baker and Miles A. Gilb rt. As
subsequent history must relate, it was merely a prospective
town and only placed on paper. It is true that a po^t-
oifice was located here, and a few goods sold, by William
S. Hughes ; but a little later more active parties located in
■what is now Red Bud, and from the hamlet then begun now
booms a live little cily. It is situated upon a ri^ing eminence
in Horse Prairie, a little south of the Monroe county line, in
sections 4 and 9, town 4, range 8. It receives its name trum a
speciesof flora that was then growing largely in this part of the
prairie. Indeed, where the city now stands was a jungle, com-
posed of black haws, grape-vines and red bud. On what is
now the northeast corner of Market and Main streets there
was a large patch of the "red bud " flora, and Mr. R. D. Dur-
fee, being one of the settlers of the town, saw fit to name the
hamlet and post-oflice Red Bud. The first indication of
civilization within what is now the city limits was made
by Preston Brickey, in 1820. He constructed a little log
cabin, a few yards north of the depot, and here cultivated
a farm ; but no thought could have entered his mind that
only two decades later there would be a city of life and
activity within a stone's throw of his cibin. In 1839 James
Pollock placed a small stock of goods in the log cabin
built by Henry Simmons, where he did business for about
a year. This was situated about a quarter of a mile east
of the Catholic church building, on the property now
owned and occupied by William Gubert. The next year
he moved his stock of goods into a log building erected
by John C. Crozier, which was situated on the ground
now occupied by Henry O'Harra s lumber yard. He contin-
ued the business here about three years, when he moved to
Preston. In 1840 R D. Durfee became the first permanent
merchant in Red Bud. Two years later he built a frame
store house on the southeast corner of Market and Main
streets, where theCommercial Hotel now stands. In the
same year he erected his dwelling just in the rear of the
bank building. These were the first frame houses. The town
was laid ott' and platted by William Simmons, January 19,
184 ^. The village grew and jjrospered, so that other addi-
tions were soon made by R. D. Durfee and Samuel Crozier.
The first brick building erected was the school-house; it
was built in 1854, in the east part of the town. It is still
sianding. The first brick store was built by Durfee &
Crozier, in 1855, and is situated on the northeast corner
of Main and Market streets, and is now occupied by
L Marx & Co. The first hotel was built by Lawrence
Smith in 185t). and was located on the northwest corner of
Market and Main streets. It was a two-story frame build-
ing. Gabriel S. Jones was the first blacksmith. He com-
menced business .in 1847, and his shop was situated on the
north side of East Market street, where Peter Wey's jewelry
store now is. The first church house was erected by the
Lutheran denomination. It is yet standing by the side of
the present magnificent structure, in the southeast part of
the city, and is now used by the church for a parochial
school.
According to a directory made in 1859, the following was
the business of the town : five dry goods stores ; six groceries ;
two flouring mills ; two lumber yards ; six merchant tailors ;
one drug store; one brewery ; one livery stable; five boot
and shoe shops ; three blacksmiths ; three wagon shops ;
one saddler ; four hotels; two brick yards ; four carpenter
shops ; three cabinet shops ; three tinners ; one jewlery store ;
and one ambrotype gallery.
Inc'irporation — It was organized as a village, April 19,
1866, the officers belugas follows : John Brickey, president of
the board, Gerhard Boekhott', William Schuck, Gerhard
Ortgeisen, and John Brunner. B. C. F. Janssen was
appointed clerk, John Washbaugh, town constable, and
G. Boekhott', treasurer.
The village charter was not received until February 28,
1667. In January, 1875, a vote was taken for the purpose
of incorporating as a city under the general law; the result
being 94 votes fur incorporation, and 76 against it. The
citizens, therefore, being in favor of incorporating as a city,
on the 3rd day of April following, an election was held for
city officers with the following result : Mayor, Jacob Miller ;
Aldermen, Alexa'nder N. Green, Henry Fohrell, John
Gerner, Peter Kardell, Benedict Rau, and Frederick
Roepke. City Treasurer, George Carl ; City Attorney^
Joseph B. Simpson ; Police Magistrate, John Stoehr; Clerk,
Fred D. Guker ; City Marshal, J. Matt Smith; Collector,
John Hahn ; Street Supt., Christian Sippel. The officers at
400A
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
401
this writing are Mayor, Benedict Rau ; Aldermen of the
first ward, Fred Merz, Henry Wahlmann ; second ward,
Alexius Mudd. John Schirmer ; third ward, William Bar-
rett, William J. ISchrooder ; Street Supt., Philip Lindner ;
Cemetery Supt , Fred Ahnefeld ; Way Master, Valentine
Heck ; City Marshal, Henry Weidling ; Treasurer, John
Hahn ; City Clerk, Fred D. Guker ; Police Magistrate,
John Stoehr.
The city at this writing contains a population of about
1,700, mostly composed of a wide-awake German class, and
with the most substantial improvements. There are ex-
cellent brick and stone side-walks, and the business houses
and dwellings are constructed mainly of brick : indeed it
niigiit l)e termed a brick town.
PRESENT BUSINESS, ETC.
Red Bud Flatiring Milk and Ekvahir. — This leading in-
dustry was established ia 18-57. by a stock company, and
was subsequently purchased by Brickey Brothers, and in the
summer of 18X0, it passed into the hands of the present
proprietor, G. Ziebold. It is a brick building, three stories
high, beside basement and attic, and the main buihling is
42x56 feet on tlic ground. It is located in the northeast
part of the city, situated between Mill and Pine streets.
The mill contains six run of burrs, and has the capacity of
manufacturing 22.5 barrels of flour in 24 hours. The
intention of the proprietor is, in a few months, to put in the
mill a complete '• roller system." It ha.s the conveniences of a
side track, extending from the railroad to the mill. Twenty-
three men are given employment by this industry, and the
estimated value of annual manufactured product is 8200, 0<iO.
The firm does its own coopering, haying extensive shops
situated a little east of the mills. The elevator was built in
1><81, and is constructed in the regular elevator style. It u
36x5fi feet on the ground, and to the top of the ventilation,
is 62 feet. It has a capacity of elevating 500 bushels of
grain per hour, and can store 50,000 bushels
The New Sleam Flouring Mills, were erected in 1870, by
Samuel Sale, and are situated in the northwest part of the
town, on Pine street. Mr Sale did not finish the mill on ac-
count of a lack of means Leonhard and Fisher bought out
the concern, and placed in the machinery. They conducted
it for a time, when it came into the hands of Wm. A. Fish-
er. In 18Sl, Mr. Fisher erected an elevator, and made
other improvements to the mill, and the fi)llowing year he
sold out to the present firm, H. B. Fggers &. Co. The main
building is a substantial brick edifice, -50 x .50 feet, and four
stories high. The elevator is attached to the mill, and is
also of brick, three stories high. The mill contains five
runs of .stone and seven sets of rolls, Avith a capacity of manu-
facturing 250 barrels of flour daily. Twenty-five employes
are given labor by this industry, as the firm manufacture
their own barrels for shipping flour. The shops are located
a little north of the mill, and cover o()oO square feet of ground.
The " Ambrosia" is their favcjrite brand of flour. The ele-
vator has the capacity of storing 18,i)(IO bu^hels of wheat.
B. V. Frank is the head miller, and the manager of the
mills.
51
Carriage Manufactory, J. Roscow & Brother Proprietors.
This factory was established in the spring of 1876, by James
Roscow; and January, 18>>0. the firm became W. & J. Ros.
cow, but was subsequently changed to the present firm name.
The building is a two story frame, 50 x 76 feet, and contains
a blacksmith shop, wood work and trimming rooms, besides
two floors for a repository. Fourteen men are given employ-
ment. The firm make a specialty of the "Tinkcn and
Brewster platform spring " Surrey carriages of every descrip-
tion are manufactured.
So'la WatiT Factory. — This business was commenced in the
.-pring of 1878, by Henry Buettner, and is situated in the
middle of the block, east of the post-office, on the north side
of East Market street. It has two fountains and a generater,
with a ca]iacity for manufacturing fifteen hundred boxes of
soda wat°r every month. The building is a two story brick,
and was originally built for a brewery. The firm do a good
liuisness.
Cigor Monvjiictroy of Christian KatH, is located three
doors east of Main street, on the north side of East Market
>treet. The bu.^iness was commenced in 18ii7, by the present
proprietor. The amount of annual manufactured goods is
120,000 c'gars. and it employs three men. The market is
mainly found in Red Bud, and surroundiug towns.
Brick Yards — There are two within the city. That of
Anton Huegle is situated in the southeast part of the town,
a block or two south of the school buildings. The business
was commenced in 1862. It contains one kiln, and turns
out about .300,000 bricks annually. Besides the brick-yard,
Mr. Huegle has a lime kiln within the city limits, and fur-
nishes that product to the people of the town and surround-
ing country. Jacob Melly also owns and ojierates a brick-
yard in the west part of the city. He has one kiln and
Inirns about the same number of brick as the above. The
business was established in 187i) by the father of the above
Mr. Melley also owns a lime-kiln and one of the stone quar-
ries. There are two good limestone quarries in or near the
city limits which are quite extensively worked. The principal
streets are already pavtd with the rock.
Bank. — This institution was organized in June, 1875, bv
a stock company. It is located in a good brick building,
five doors west of JIain street, on the north side of West
Market street. It has ample capital to do a safe banking
l)usiness. The bank is supplied with a fire and burglar-
))roof safe, the "Yale" time lock, and all the fixtures of a
first-clas< bank. President, David Ohlwine ; Cashier, A. L
Wilson.
Besides the business houses, there are tour good churches,
Lutheran, Catholic, Methodist and J5aptist. The public
.school buildings are worthy of mention, and the schools aie
now under the eflicient management of T. C. McDonougli,
principal. The city can also boast of two public halls, a
cornet band, public library association, and a local board of
insurance underwriters. The latter was organized in lx''.i,
with four members. President, John Stoeher ; Treas , A. L.
Wilson ; Secretary, J. Matt. Smith. The present Secretary
is Fred. D. Guker.
General 3Iercliant^. — Peningroth, Scriever & Co. ; J. J.
402
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Helber it Sons ; Johannah Huth ; Sophia Boekhoff, prop'r,
R. J. and H. P. Boekhoff, managers; Marx & VVeiler ; Sale
& Neu.
Books, Stutlonery, dc. — George Carl.
Dru(///kt-i (did Pharmacists. — Lewis Lesaulnier, H. A
Dinges.
Liiniber Mcrch(tiit. -Thomas B. O'Harra.
Physicians. — W. J. Seeley, A. B. Beattie, J. P Bahren-
burg, Franz Veight.
Harness and Saddlery. — G. & T. Saxenmeyer, August H.
Koch, Henry Sturtzum.
Hotels. — Philip Offerding, Margaret Haverraann, John
Curten, Peter Jost.
Merchant Tailor. — Fred. A. Rathert.
Tailor — John Kline.
Furniture (ioods and Undertakers. — Valentine Heck,
Louis Hensins, A. Streicher.
Hardware and Timrare. — Benedict Rau, J H. Just
Wa(/on Makers. —Henry Ruehnkorf, C. Petersen, Henry
Wahlniann, William Floreth.
Gimsinith. — Sylvester S. Durfee.
Watch Makers and Jewelers — Peter Wey, August Kal-
bitz
Ci'jar Store — Edward Heberer.
Blacksmiths. — Fred. Merz, Ernst Budde, John Lang,
Peter Petersen, Louis Schuette, William Whitchurch.
Milliners and Dress Makers. — Mrs. Elizabeth Maier, Miss
Sophia Noll, Mrs. Sarah Walsh
Lirery ami Feed Stables. — B, C. Dunn & Bro., Miller &
Fairchilds.
Photographer. — Monroe Parrott.
Butchers. — William Thielan. Charles Burgdort'.
Stock Dealers — George Ratz, Henry Ratz, James W. Rea
Shoe Makers. — Philip Hahn, Christoph Jakle, Henry
Klueuder, Charles Gielow, Henry Bayer.
Carpenters and Builders. — William I. Schroeder, Louis
Hensins, H. H. Droge, Gotlieb Koester, Fred. Yannert.
Brick and Stone Ma.sons. — Frank Heege, John Helbig,
Conrad Berg, Wm. Rathert, Wm. Henschen, Herman
Loesche, Anton Huegle.
Dealer in Tobacco, Pipes, etc. — Henry Hoth.
Dentist. — C. W. Jocelyn.
Painters and Glaziers. — Adam Kaffaix, Jno. J. Fox, Paul
Dumas.
Bakers. — Leonard Kaffenberger, John Er.senlohr.
Barbers — Philip Snyder, Theodore Jakle.
Justices of the Peace. — John Stoehr Jno. H. Meyer, Fred.
D. Guker.
Family Groceries. — John Hahn.
Postmaster. — George Carl.
The Red Bad Courier, is likewise one of the enterprises
of the city, further mention of which is made in the article
on the Press. The town also contains sixteen places where
beer and other stimulants are sold by the small, besides three
places where spirituous liquors are dealt out by wholesale.
Red Bud Lodge, No. 427, A. F. and A. M. was organized
under dispensation August 18, 1864, and received its charter,
dated October 4, A. D , 18(35. The present membership is
94 members. The Lodge meets regularly in its hall every
Saturday evening, on or after the full of the moon in each
month.
Kiii(/hls of Honor, U. D., No. •JG'iS, was established the
18th of January, 188"2, with thirteen members. The present
membership is now thirty-six, being the maximum number
enrolled The first Dictator, was Geo. L. Riess; first
Reporter, Fred. D. Guker. The Lodge meets the second
and fourth Fridays in each month. It is in good condition
financially, and prospering equally with the other lodges in
the State.
■«^^6^^^*8S3^^-
BIOGRAPHIES
W. S. FAIRCHILD.
Red Bud possesses few better business men than W. S.
Fairchild, the proprietor of the livery stable. He was born
in Monroe county December 20, 1845. His father, a native
of New York, came from Ohio, where he had lived a few
years, to Monroe county, settling near Yankeetown in 1838.
His name was Daniel, whilst his wife's was Elvira. He
followed the vocation of farming. Died October 20, 1873.
W. S. Fairchild went to Bates county, Missouri, in 1867,
where he remained until 1878. In Missouri he followed
farming, which he continued after his return to Illinois in
Randolph county. In 1881 he purchased the liveiy stable
in Red Bud, which he has since most successfully carried on.
He was married to Miss Grace Swift, daughter of Arnold
and Harriet Swift, October 23, 1871. By this marriage
there are three children, Harriet Elvira, Fay Edward and
Helen May. Mrs. Fairchild, a native of New York, came
here as a teacher in 1865. She followed this calling several
years in Monroe and Randolph counties.
Early in life Mr. Fairchild learned to love the principles
of the Republican party. His first presidential ballot was
cast for U. S. Grant, the soldier President. In his dealings
with patrons and friends Mr. Fairchild is accommodating
and obliging. As a citizen he enjoys the confidence and
respect of all.
HISTORY OF RAynOLFH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS. 403
/^-//^^v ^^ ciy^^M^
404
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND I'ERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
■Ljy:f^[^'
The Randolph county bar has among its members no
more congenial spirit or popular advocate than George L
Riess, the present county Judge. He is a native of St.
Clair county, Illinois, having been born in Centreville, uow
known as Millstadt, September 'lOth, 1838. His father was
a clergyman, the Rev. J. J. Riess, at that time the only
minister of the German Evangelical church in the West.
The maiden name of his mother was Charlotte Henckler,
and she was born in Weisbaden, in Nassau, whilst his
father was a native of Puttlingeu.Wurtemberg. The family
lived in Centreville until George was seven years of age, and
then moved to St. Louis where the next six years of his life
were spent. The Rev. William Riess was an efficient and
active clergyman and the German Evangelical church in the
West owes much of its present strength to his labors. While
in St. Louis he founded three churches of his denomination,
two of which bear his name. In the public schools of St.
Louis George S. received his early education.
In 1851 the family removed to Quincy, Illinois, returning
after one year to St. Louis, where the Rev. Mr. Riess died
July 8th, 1855.
In August following the subject of this sketch was chosen
as one of the teachers iu the public schools of Waterloo, at
that time under the supervision of Rev. G- Steiuer. For
five years he followed the calling of a teacher and in 1860
having given up his long cherished hope of becoming a
college graduate, he became Deputy Sheriff of Monroe
county. Prior to this he had diligently devoted his spare
hours to the study of law. In 1.S65 he .was chosen Assessor
and Treasurer of Monroe county, and was re-elected in 1867.
Then was made Police Magistrate and subsequently Justice
of the Peace.
He was admitted to the bar September 14th, 1871, and
immediately entered upon a lucrative practice. As an
evidence of his popularity and of the confidence of the
community in his abilities it may be mentioned that he had
thirty-five cases at the first term of court after his admission
to practice. In 1875 he moved to Red Bud, and in 1882
was elected Judge of the county court of Randolph county.
He was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A. Turk October
3d, 1861. Mr. Riess early cast his fortunes with the
Democratic party, of whose principles he has ever been a
steadfast supporter. During the progress of the war for^he
LTnion he was an ardent friend of the Union's cause, and
toward the end of the struggle raised a company of one-
hundred and ten men, the " Monroe Tigers," and proceeding
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
405
to Springfield, offered their services to the government- The
war, however, about that time came to an end, and they were
never in the field.
Gifted with more than ordinary endowments and energies,
a genial nature and a generous flow of good humor have
contributed to establish his hold on the aff-Ctions of the
people. As Judge of the county court he is winning golden
opinions from the people and the bar by his sound judgment
and fair decisions.
FREDERICK GUKER, (DEC.)
The name of " Kaskaskia Fred," proprietor of the Eagle
Tavern, is still in pleasant recollection by the old pioneers
of Randolph county ; a native of Alsace, near Strassburg.
he emigrattd to America in 1827, having served his time as
miller and afterward as baker at Strassburg. He landed
at New York, and after working at the baker's trade for five
years in New York State, he left there for New Orleans, where
he landed on the 4ih of July, 183'2. On February 6th. 183t),
he came to Kaska.skia, where he worked one year for McGin-
nis; he bought McGinnis out, and in the Spring of 1840 he
built the spacious " Eagle Tavern," the only brick hotel in
the town, which for a number of years was the principal
resort of lawyers and officers visiting Kaskaskia. In the
summer of I8:i4 he married Miss Margaretha Medart ; they
had twelve children: Carolina, (dec.l Louisa, wife of Geo.
Hatters, of iVlgiers, Louisiana, Frederick I). J. P., Notary
Public, Insurance and Real Estate Agent, and City Clerk
of Red Bud, Margaret, wife of John Rail, farmer, near Red
Bud, Sophia, (dec), John, (dec), Sophia, wife of James
Ashton, Algiers, Loui-iaua, Mary, wife of Wm. H. Toy,
printer, at St. Louis, Missouri, Daniel R , baker and confec.
tioner at Red Bud, Jul a, (dec) and Ferdinand, (dec).
Mr. Guker lived at Kaskaskia from 18:56 to 18.58; during
this time he grew to be one of the wealthiest men of Ran-
dolph county. He lived for two years on a farm two
miles above Evansville ; from thence he removed to Algiers,
Louisiana, and after the Rebellion returned north, living at
Thebes, Kaskaskia and Red Bud. He carried on a bakery
and confectionery at Red Bud till his death, which oc-
curred April 22nd, 187.5, leaving his widow and children.
His remains are interred in the old city cemetery at Red
Bud.
BALDWIX
RANDOLPH CO.
ALDWIN precinct lies in the
northern part of Randolph, ad-
joining St. Clair county, and
embraces about forty-five sec-
tions of land. It is princii)al-
Iv prairie, although the south-
ern part and the western, along
the Kaskaskia river, were
originally wooded. Hill
prairie lies in the northeastern
part, and stretches eastward
into Tilden. It is separated
from Heac ><k, now commonly called Plum Creek prairie,
by a belt of somewhat broken surface extended north and
south, of which the locality of Jordan's Grove is a part.
Heacock prairie, so named from Gecjrge Heacock, who was
an early settler in it, is a level area. The surface in the
south, along Plum creek, is considerably broken. The tim-
ber originally consisted of large, thinly set post oaks, among
which was a heavy growth of tall grass. The principal
streams which supply water and drainage are the Kaskaskia
river and Plum and Little Plum creeks. Doza creek is so
named from a Fr»nch hunter who frequented its banks in
quest of game. The soil is productive and the improve-
ments are good. Wheat is the staple, and the other cereals
receive but little attention. Fruit is not raised for the
market. Sheep farming receives some attention and is found
to be profitable ; a small flock of sheep on the farm is (juite
common. Thomas Black introduced the Cotswalds and
Southdowns about twenty years ago. The Berkshire hogs,
introduced by D. R. McM;'.ster, are the approved and pre-
vailing breed. Attention has been pa d to the breeding of
suitable farm horses. The English draft Clidesdale breeds
were brought in several years ago by Thomas McHatton.
The facilities for travel are among the best. The Kaskaskia
and St. Louis State road is a wide thoroughfare, extending
north and south, passing through Baldwin village. The
Cairo and St Louis railroad with its connections affords ex-
cellent shipping advantages. The precinct was first settled
in the southern and we.-tern part by immigrants, principally
from Sou h Carolina and Kentucky. Several settlementa
were made here prior to 1812. The Scotch some years later
settled the northeastern part in Hill prairie. The Germans
in 1844 or 1H4.5, began to push th^ir settlements southward
from Dutch Hill, so called, in St. Clair county, into Heacock
prairie. This region, however, had been to some extent,
previously occupied. The Germans, first to make settle-
ments here, were Conrad Spitz, Michael Bilger and Fran-
cis Keener. Teutonic blood is now largely in occupancy of
this part of the precinct, and the Germans are among the
best farmers in the community. There are eight schools in
the precinct, provided with suitable buildings. In 1812,
406
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
about three and a half miles above the mouth of Plum
creek, and a half mile east of the west bank nf the Kaskas-
kia, near a spring of lasting water there stood a small log
building in which James St. Clair taught the children in
the settlement. This was the first school-house. In these
early days it was the custom enforced by necessity for the
settlers to detail and employ one of their own members to
act as teacher;". From this rude beginning almost as by
magic, has developed the present advanced condition of the
common schools Husbandry in early days was confined to
the timber districts, partly from other circumstances and
necessarily on account of the immense numbers of green-
headed flies that infested the prairies, and rendered the
horses in daylight utterly unmanageable. The primitive
prairie farmer was obliged to do his team work at night.
Not the least among the burdens that fell to the lot of the pio-
neer, were those in respect of milling and clothing. The
responsibility and care of the latter fell principally upon the
women, who plied the spindle and the shuttle with diligence.
About 1816, on a settler's claim in section 28 or 29, on the
banks of the river, Robert McDauiels built the first mill,
and supplied a much felt need.
The earl est important American settlements in what is
now Baldwin precinct were made by Absalom Cox, of Cox's
ferry notorietv, David Ander.-on and William McBride,
who came with other families from South Carolina in 1801.
There were three of the Anderson brothers who played an
important part in the development of the country around
Plum creek. They were besides David just mentioned,
James and John The two former came together in company
with Cox, McBride and Robert McDonald. Cox located on
a four hundred acre settler's claim in the N. W. } of section
28. This claim. No 1044, and the oi;e adjoining it on the
south. No 1992, were located respectively in favor of two
bachelors named Hix and Smith. Each had a cabin on his
claim, but they lived principally together and took their
meals at the upper cabin. One day one of them went to the
river to get water. His long absence excited some alarm,
and his companion, who was deaf, went in search and found
his comrade lying in the canoe dead and scalped. This so
alarmed him that he never returned from the burial of the
body for which he started, in the canoe, to Kaskaskia. The
lower claim was afterwards confirmed to General Edgar, by
whose permission Cox located on the one lying above. He
brought with him to the county his wife, whose maiden name
was Jane McBride, sister of Thomas, William and John, and
three children. Five other children were born in the
county, Mr. Cox was a man of courage and enterprise.
The former made him a leader in the ranger .service. The
latter shortly after his arrival showed itself iu the establish-
ment of a ferry. This was at first operated by means of a
canoe. About 1816 or '17 increased immigration demanded
better facilities for crossing the river, and Mr. Cox built a
ferry boat suflacient to carry two wagons at a trip. But
exposure to the sun during low water soon ruined it. After
its abandonment, about 1822, the ferry was operated again
in the old way. As early as 1815 or '16, Thomas Wide-
man, who married Cox's sister in Tennessee, operated a ferry
about a mile up the river, and had, in a rude form, the first
ferry boat. It consisted of a deck formed of puncheons,
resting on two canoes placed side by side. This ferry was
largely patronized by the settlers prior to the building of
Cox's boat. Wideman brought his wife and daughter to
the country with him and settled on section 21. He excited
the suspicions of the company of regulators, a sort of censor-
ial vigilance and police committee, whose business it was to
deal summary justice to ofl'enders and suspicious characters;
and to escape punishment he left the country about 1819.
One of the most active in the prosecution of Wideman was
his brother-in-law, Cox, evincing a disapproval of lawless-
ness and disorder, even though fijund near his own door.
David Anderson brought with him one child, Jane, who
died unmarried. His wife was Nanc}', daughter of Adam
Hill, who settled south of Plum creek His children, be-
sides Jane, were Mary, Elizabeth, and Julia. He located
on section 5, T. 5, R. 7, where he lived and died. The
IMcBride family was a large one, and a valuable accession
to the new settlement It consisted of William and his wife,
who.se maiden name was Jane Law, and their children,
Thomas, John, William, Jr., Nancy, Margaret, Jane, and
Elizabeth, all married before their arrival in the ccunty.
Thomas had a wife and three children, Elizabeth, John, and
William. He settled about three miles south of Baldwin,
on the E. '■ of the N. E ] of section 26. Here he made im-
provements, reared a large family acd lived all his life. He
began blacksmithing soon after he located, and was the first
to ply that trade. He was the only man in the entire
settlement who could make cow-bells, an article then in
great demand. He understood the art of brazing, by which
he rendered the bells sound. John married Sarah Little, in
Kentucky, where the McBrides had stopped a number of
years before coming to Illinois. Jane McBride, whom John
Anderson brought with him, in 1806, as his adopted
daughter, was the result of this union. About 1815, Mr.
McBride settled on the E. \ of the N. W. i of section 23.
William, Jr., who was also married in Kentucky, settled in
section 24, southeast of Baldwin, where he remained a few
years and then moved to what is now Ruma precinct, and
there died. He was an intelligent man, a teacher, and
county superintendent of schools about forty years ago. He
also represented his district in the State Legislature.
In 1806, George Wilson, John Anderson, and John
Douglas located here. Mr. Wilson was iu the ranger ser-
vice for three years; other early settlers were John G-
Nelson and Samuel Douglas. Mr Nelson was a justice of the
peace for many years, and was the first in what is now this
precinct.
Jane McBride became the wife of John, son of Archibald
Thompson, and theirs was probably the earliest marriage in
the precinct. Thompson subsequently settled in Evansville
precinct. He became a member of the legislature, and died
at his boarding place during one of the sessions The
Thompson family came to the county in 1804. Robert
McDaniel built the first mill. He settled here in 1812.
Thomas and David Fulton, South Carolinians, came in 1814.
Giorge Heacock was an eastern man, and settled north of
406A
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
407
Bdldwin, in sjction 2, in 1818, in the prairie, which bears
his name. He and Stephens, who came ab mt the same
time, lived in separate cabins in the same yard. They had
a dairy and were also cattle dealers The Sendder family
also settled in this prairie. Tliey came Ir >m IVMiie.ssee here
in 1810. The family followed hiiutiii;; aii.l fi-liiM>^ and made
no permanent settlement. James R'dpitli, a native of
Scjtlanii, came to lieacock prairie in 1H21, his wile dying
on the voyage at .sea. In 182.5 the neiglih irhood of .Ionian's
Grove wa>Sfttled; at that date William U'ltherford. Iv )l>ert
Redpath, Hugh Leslie, and John McMillan began itnpruve-
inents in ihat vicinity.
In the edge of Jordan's grove the first p >st oHico was
established as early as 18.50. The office was ke()t by
^Villiam Jleek ; he also had a stock of goods there. The
next nearest store was at Sparta. The post office is now
kept at the store of Thomas Boyles. The territory em-
braced by what is now B >ldwin prfcincl was repr^-sented in
the Black Hawk war by James A. Bean, Ah-aloni McBiide
and David And>rsi>a "The fort, " so called, was built in
181 -J, by the Andersons, Wilsons, McBrides, Thompsons,
Co.x and otliprs, because of the murder of the Lively
family in Washington county. The wives and children
were placed within its walls for protection while the fathers
and husbands went into the ranging services. The enclo-
sure, consisted of heavy pickets. It was located on section
thirty-three.
VII.I-.VGE OF B.^LDWIN.
The charter of incorporation was granted in 187G. The
first trustees were S. B. Adams S. H. Johnston, J. E.
Davis, W. T. Thompson, J. R. Holden, William M. Wilson
S. B. Adams, President ; S. D. Lindsey, Clerk. The first
business building was a grain and machinery house, put up
by S. C. Jordan in the fall of 187o. The railroad was built
the previous spring. The village is situated on Ileacock
prairie, and has a population numbering about two hundred
and fiftv. There are three neat frame church buildings.
The Presbyterian was built in 1872, at a cost )f 8800; the
Methodist in J871, at a cost of about Sl',200; and the
Campbellite, in 1875, costing about §600. The school-house
is a frame two-room, 24x50 building, erected in 1874-5 at
a cost of about 82,000. The Baldwin flouring mill was
built by James Scott & Son iu 187G. The property after
changing hands several times, came into the possessi m of
the present proprietor, S. II. Johnston, in 1880. It has
two run of burrs and a capacity of twenty-four barrels a
day. The saw mill was moved from St. Clair county in
1874 or '75. It is owued by Holden & Johnston. The
grain house of W. B Pres'on was built by its present owner,
in 1877, at a co^t of §2,200. The grain is elevated by steam
at the rate of four hundred bushels an hour. From seventy-
five thousand to a hundred thousand bushels of wheat are
handled annually. The grain is discharged from the bins
directly into the cars of the Cairo & St Liuis railroad.
BUSIXF,S.S DIRECTORY.
Pkyiidaw — C. F. Marshall, 0 H. Rhodes, J. M Camp-
bell, J. McMenomy.
General Stores. -^Ui. S. H. Spaeth, W. B Preston.
Groeeries,' Provisions and Post OJice. — William T.
Thompson.
Drug Stores.— 0. H Rhodes, McMenomy and Fellows.
Grain I)e.aler.<.—\\\\\[&m B. Preston, S. H. Johnston.
B/anksmitJis- —C. li. Wiltshire, H. C. Fink, Joseph
Holden.
Shoemalcer^ — William Weierbach.
Harness Maker. — J. W Porch
Wagon Maker. — William I'ink.
HoteLs — G. W. Nelson, Mrs. Jane Douglass.
Milliners and Dre.ismakers.—Mr=. James Holden, Mrs.
W. L. Wiley.
Carpenter.— J. C. Wells.
Barbers.— R. L. Nelson, H. A. Rhodes.
Livery Stables. — J A. and R. L NeUon.
Police Magistrate — W. G. Young.
Village Attorney- — John A. Ddugla.«s.
Saloons. — George Heifer, Henry Baumann, Mrs. John
Scheak.
TILDEN
RANDOLPH CO.
She precinct of Tilden is situated in the
extreme northern part of the county.
It is bounded north by St. Clair and
Washington counties, east by C<mlter-
ville, south by Sparta and Central and
west by Baldwin. The surface is rolling
prairie, with but little timber. The
precinct is made up from parts of
township 4, range 5, and township 4, range 6, the greater
portion being in the latter township. It occupies portions
of Grand Cote and Flat prairies, the foil of which is very
rich and productive. Plum creek and its several tributa-
ries, drain the lands and furnish water for stock purposes.
The Cairo Short Line Railroad traverses the northeast
corner, on the line of which is located the village of Tilden,
which gives facilities for the shipment of stock and produce.
Wheat is the principal crop, although corn, oats, hay, fruits
and vegetables are cultivated and yields abundantly.
About 1840 the chief industry was the cultivation of castor
beans, an<l it is related that most of the money with which
408
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES. ILLINOIS.
the lands were entered in tliis ])recinct, was dKlained from
the production of tliis article. Tliere were several oil mills
then operated in the county. Since 1860 but little of this
product has been grown. There i.o,at this writing, consider-
able attention being paid to fruit growing, esppciiilly among
the Scotch citizens, who form a great poition of the popula-
tion. The raising of s ock also receives a fair share of at-
tention. About the first blooded stock was the Durham
breed introduced by B. C'rawforJ, some time during the de-
cade of 1850-60 Daniel Mcintosh introduced the Alder-
ny stock about 1872. In the business of s-heep rai.'ing,
there has existed quite a rivalry between theSco ch settlers.
Among the breeds popular with them are Merinos, the
Southdowns and the Cottswolds. Matthew Kirkwood, John
Andrews and W. J. Crawford are among the leading mm
engaged in this industry.
Samuel Henry, James Clark and Nathan Davis, all set-
tled here about the same time and improved the first farms
in the pncinct. These parties entered their land, upon
which they settled prior to or about 1820. We will here
give a few of the earliest land entries which will show the
names of others who probably settled here.
Nov. 17th, 1818, Samuel Stublefield entered W. 1,S. E.
J, Sect. 19, 80 acres, Same date Samuel F. Henry entered
W. i, N. E. }, Sect 19, 80 acres. Nov. 17th, 1818, James
Clark entered E. *, N. E. i, Sect. 18, 80 acres March 9th,
1819, Nathan Davis entered the E. i, S W. J, Sect. 8, 80
acres The above entries are in township No. 4 south,
range 5 west. The following entries are in township No. 4
south, range 6 west. March 9th, 1818, Hugh Leslie entered
the E. i, S. W. i, and the W. 5, S. E. i of Sect. No. 20,
160 acres. Aug. .5th, 1818, W. C Ballard entered the E. i,
N. E. 5, Sect. 23, 80 acres.
It does not always follow where these early entries
were made that the parties became actual settlers, for in
many cases the lands were entered by those who were never
residents of the county.
James Strahan, a Pennsylvanian, came as early as 1822,
and located on the E i of S. W. i of section 8, T. 4, E. 5,
which tract he purchased of Nathan Davis. Strahan,
brought with him a wife and family— John, Blair, Jane,
Margaret, Mary Ann and Nancy, were the names of his
children. John married Mary Boyd, and entered land in
section 9, and resided there until his death, about 1860
Blair married Jane Campbell, and is still living on section
8. Jane married Thomas Lindsay, who entered land and
settled in S. E. k of section 13, about 1828 Mary Ann
died single. Margaret became the wife of John Hair, and
Nancy the wife of Alexander McGuire, who first .settled on
•vacated land in section 18, remained in the county a few
years, and finally located in Washington county.
John and William K. McDill, brothers, and natives of
South Carolina, came to the county with their father, in
1819 or '20. He settled in the vicinity of Sparta, and John
and William K. became early residents of this precinct,
locating in section 21. John reared a large and much
respected family of children, several of whom are living in
this part of the county. William K. McDill, was born in
1797, and after coming to this county married .lanett Mun-
ford, in 1823. His father's name was John. He also came
with the family to the county, but died in 1824. His
mother died in South Carolina William McDill's children
were John, James, Robert, Thomas, Jane, Margaret and a
daughter who died young. S(jme of them are living in this
county.
.'■amuel Boyd, Sr. , was a native of Ireland, born in 1777.
He was married in South Carolina, to Nancy Varner, and
came to Tilden, about 182.5. He settled on section 17,
where he improved a good farm. His children, brought
from S.)uth Carolina, were Samuel L , Margaret, Eliza,
Agnes, Jane, Mary, Sarah, Abigail and Rebecci. Samuel
L married Jane Gibson, located on section 17, improved a
farm, and rema ned there until his death, leaving a large
family. He was twice married, and all the daughters <xcept
Sarah, married and had families.
Anderson Jones, from Lincoln couuty, Tennessee, came
about 1829, and located on sf-ction 19, where he remained a
few years, and then moved to Jackson county, this State.
He brought with him a large family, but none of ihem are
now living in this county.
Stewart Burns, from South Carolina, came with a wife
and lamily, and selected a home on the N E. i of section
19, in 1830. He improved a fine farm, upon which he
res-ided until his death, about 1865. His wife was Sarah
Gillespie, daughter of James Gillespie, an old resident of
Washington county. She is still living on the old home-
stead. Burnsserved as a soldier in the warof 1812 and was
a much respected citizen in the community. He reared a
family of intelligent children, many of whom reside in
various parts of the county, and are much respected in their
community. Hugh C. Gault, also from Lincoln (ounty,
Tennessee, was another early arrival. He came in 1831,
and brought with him a family of five or six children. In
the latter years of his life he resided in Sparta, where in
1878, he died, at the age of 86 years.
William Edmiston, a native Virginian, was one of the
prominent arrivals of 1832. He came here from Tennessee,
from where he had enlisted. in the war of 1812, and where
in 1816, he married Sarah Askins. He emigrated to Illinois
in 1832, making his home on the N. W. i of section 5, T. 4,
R. 6, in the spring of that year. He entered three or four
hundred acres of land, and became one of the prosperous
citizens of the county. His children were Albert, Harmon,
William, Rufus, James, John, Polly, Sarah and Taylor.
John Edmiston, a younger brother of William Edmiston,
came with his family, to this county, and in 1832 located on
the N. E. i of section 19, where he improved a good farm,
and reared a large family, none of whom are now residing
in the precinct. His children brought with him to this
county, were John, Abner, Thirsa, Betsy, Susan and Rhoda.
John McMillan, Mark Wilson and Mrs. Sarah Clark and
their families were among the early settlers here.
William Chambers, a native of South Carolina, and
another old veteran of the war of 1812, emigrated with his
family to this county in 1822, and settled here. He reared
a large family, improved a good farm, and died in 1840.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
409
The first settlers in this precinct located along the various
streams where water and timber were plenty, and it was not
until about 1833 that the prairies began to be settled.
The first mill was constructed by Samuel Boyd on his
place about 1831. It was what is known as a horse-mill.
Rude as it was, it served a good purpose in its day. Near
this mill, in section 17, was the first grave-yard in the pre-
cinct. Sarah Boyd was the first person buried there.
Schools were early taught and have been liberally main-
tained. The first church erected was in 18G4 by the Pres-
byterian denomination. It was constructed of brick, and
stands on the southwest quarter of the southwest quarter of
section 7. Rev. Gibson was the earliest preacher. Dr.
Marshall was the earliest physician, locating here as early
as 1840.
VILLAGE OF TILDEN.
This thriving little village was laid out by William Ed-
miston, Robert Matthews and William G. Cra^wford, and
surveyed and platted by James D. Thompson, county sur-
veyor. The plat was recorded in the office of the circuit
52
clerk May 8, 1871. The first building was a hotel, built by
Daniel Mclntire in the spring of 1871. A post-office was
established the same year, with James Watt as post-master.
The first blacksmith shop was opened by P. T. Jones in
April, 1871. The first goods sold in a building used for that
purpose was by William Poyle, prior to the laying out of
the town in I860. The village is situated on the line of the
Cairo Short Line Railroad, and is quite a shipping point,
and a^reat convenience to the inhabitants of the precinct.
PRESENT BUSINESS.
General Store mid Post-office. — James Watt, R. K. Tor-
rens.
Blacksmith. — James W. Armour.
Wagon Maker. — John Neil.
Shoe Maker. — Alexander Ricket.
Grain Dealers, Farm Machinery, Coal and Lumber. — Ed-
miston & Fonibelle.
Dru(j Store and Physician. — Dr. T. J. Garrett.
Carpenter. — S. R. Thompson.
Custom Mill — R. K. Torrens, proprietor.
BIOGRAPHIES.
^^^^ '/^^^^^
Scotland, the land of the sturdy Highlanders, of the once
hounded covenanters and of a people withal patriotic in
impulses, has given the country many noble sons. A goodly
number of Scots have in the past located within the limits of
Eandolph county; among them James Watt is a fitting
representative. He was born in the parish of Fenwick, Ayr-
shire, Scotland, July 3d, 1828. At the age of fifteen he was
apprenticed to a shop-keeper. After a brief time he traveled
in England, then kept store in Glasgow. Soon tiring of this
he engaged as a detective on the police force, which business
he pursued three years. After a brief sojourn in Ireland he
410
made his way to Canada, landing on Christmas day, 1855, at
the port of New York on his way hither. In Canada he
remained three years when he went to Wisconsin. In 1859
he came to Kandolph county, where he has since resided.
In 1864 he entered the service of the United States, in Com-
pany A , 32d Keg., 111. Volunteer Infantry. Was wounded
in Nashville, from the effects of which he was discharged
June 3d, 1865. Since the war he has pursued mercantile
pursuits. In 1870 he secured the location of a post-office, to
which he gave the name Sadowa. In 1871 the name was
changed to Tildeu. That oflice he yet holds.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND FERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
411
C^^^tX, '^'- .^^^z.^i^^</>
Among representatives of the Scotch-Irish popuhitiun,
none is more deserving of recognition for true worth thsui
Hugh Mathews. He was born in county Antrim, Ireland,
June 26th, 18'2(> His parents, Ijoth natives of Scotland,
came to Ireland because of religious persecution in tlicir
native land. Thomas Mathews, his father, was a manufac-
turer of linen. A son Robert came to this country in 1S38,
and was so favorably impressed with its fitness for a home,
as to induce his father and family to follow suit, which they
did in 1840. The family located near where Hugh now lives.
Hugh Mathews was united in marriage to Miss Jane Maguire,
Dec. 2ord, IS')!. By this union there are three children ;
Eliza C. Nancy Emma and Thomas Henry. Mr. Mathews
and wify are members of the Reformed Presbyterian church,
and in its work are devoted, earnest and zealous. The par-
ents of Hugh both died in this county; the father Thomas
in 1874, at the age of ninety-three, and the mother, who.se
maiden name was Nancv Ro.ss, in 1804.
HARRISONVILLE.
MONROE COUNTY.
^ ARRISONVILLE precinct lies wholly in
tlie American Bottom, and comprises a
large area of rich and productive farm-
ing land. This part of the bottom in
early years contained a numerous popu-
lation, and some of the most noted men
of the earlier times of Illinois here had
their homes. Tlie old town of Harri-
sonville on the river was selected as the seat of justice of
the new county of Monroe on its formation, and for some
years was the most important point in the county. The
improvement rights granted in this precinct show that a
number of settlements were made between the years 1780
and 1790. These settlements were along the bluff and in
the bottom of the vicinity of Harrison ville. Claim 511,
survey 497, now owned by William Bamber, immediately
south of Harrisonville, was confirmed to the heirs of John
Ellison. The testimony before the Board of Commissioners
to examine land claims within the Kaskaskia district showed
that Ellison had come to this place in 1783, and had grubbed
a few acres of land adjoining L'Aigle (Eagle) and had died
in the country in the same year.
The siie of the main portion where the town of Harrison-
ville was first improved by John Jones, and was affirmed
by the board of commissioners in 1809 to John Payne. The
claim next north, 580, was granted in right of an improve-
ment made by George Wear. It was affirmed by Governor
St. Clair to James Gillham in 1813 to the same person.
Claim 554, survey 421, near Moredock lake, on the north-
ern boundary of the precinct, was first improved by Peter
Zipp, and was in the ownership of his heirs for many years.
Claim 510 was confirmed to Tobias Brashears. The fort
erected in this vicinity during the Indian War from 1786 to
1795 was called Brashear's Fort.
In the year 1794 the population in the American Bottom
received an important addition in the person of Shadrach
Bond, a nephew of Judge Shadrach Bond. He was born in
Frederick county, Maryland, in 1773, the son of Nicholas
Bond, and was twenty -one years of age when he came to
Illinois. He had received a plain English education, and
his early life had been spent on a form. Reynolds says that
" he learned much useful knowledge of all the various moving
principles of the human heart, and was nature's nobleman, edu-
cated in the wide world of the human family, with his con-
science and sound judgment as his unerring preceptors."
For some years he resided with his uncle, and indulged
much in the gayety and amusements of the country at that
day. He afterward purchased a farm on the bank of
412
Moredock Lake, where he resided till his removal to Kas-
kaskia in 1814. He was elected a member of the general
assembly of Indiana territory, which met at Vincennes, and
in 1812 was sent to Congress as the first delegate from the
territory of Illinois. Chiefly through his exertions. Con-
gress in 1813 passed the first act granting the right of pre-
emption of the public lands, a measure which was of the
greatest importance in securing the development of Illinois.
He was next appointed receiver of public moneys at the Kas-
kaskia land office, and in 1814 removed to a farm in the
vicinity of Kaskaskia. On the admission of Illinois into the
Union as a State, he was chosen without opposition the first
Governor, aud after the expiration of his term of office was
made register of the land office in Kaskaskia, in which office
ho remained for many years. He died in 1830.
Two brothers of Governor Bond, Nicodemus and Joshua
Bond, also made their homes in the American Bottom. The
latter resided here but a few years, and then removed to St.
Louis, and afterward to Vincennes. Several of the sons of
Joshua Bond acquired reputation at the bar.
The point of the bluff near the northern boundary of Har-
risonville precinct, known as Salt Lake point, marks the
place where the manufocture of salt was carried on in early
time. This saline trade was one of the earliest established in
the West. General John Edgar, of Kaskaskia, was its first
proprietor, and placed it in operation about the year 1802.
Among its subsequent owners was a man named Boise, one
of the early residents of the town of Harrisonville. He em-
ployed Thomas Marrs to work the saline, and he had charge
of it three years. At this time there were twelve wells sunk.
Considerable salt was manufactured for a time which brought
a good price.
Just north of the present town of Harrisonville, lived Dr.
Caldwell Cairnes, who was well-known all over the country
in early times, as an excellent physician. He came to Illi-
nois from Pennsylvania, soon after the year 1800. He
bought a fine farm under cultivation, which he called Wal-
nut Grove. He was fond of agriculture, and farmed, for
those days, on a large scale. He attended, likewise, to his
profession, and had a large practice among the residents of
the bottom. He was elected a Justice of the Peace, and also
one of the Judges of the St. Clair County Court. (Before
Monroe county was organized.) He was sent as one of the
delegates, from Monroe county, to the convention which
formed the first constitution of the State of Illinois. He was
one of the active working members of that body. He was
a man of sound mind, and was honest in his transactions
with the public, and upright in his deportment. He died on
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
his farm, leaving behind him a good reputation, and a large
estate. One of his daughters married Gen. James Semple,
who was at one time one of the Supreme Judges of Illiuois,
United States Senator, and Minister to Bogota. He died a
few years since, as did also his wife, at their home near
Elsah, Jersey county, Illiuois. Thoma.s and Edward Todd
were also early settlers in the bottom, Thomas not far from
Harrisonville, and Edward in Moredock precinct.
Claim 1726, on which Harrisonville is built, was formerly
owned by John and Alexander Jameson. They were brothers.
John died previous to 1826. The Levisee family lived at
Harrisonville some years, and removed from there to More-
dock precinct. A man named Gallatin owned, at one time,
a large tract of land below Harrisonville, including the place
now owned by Thomas Holland. Close to the mouth of the
Monroe City hollow, Abraham Bivens lived about 1830. On
the "sand hill," as it is called, near the Willow ford bridge,
Hugh Ralston lived in 182.5. Below the Monroe City hol-
low, under the bluff, lived Turner Todd, and farther down
the Lewis family. Just north of Dr. Cairnes, on Fountain
creek, was the residence of Bradley Rust. He was from one
of the New England States. For a number of years he
served as a Justice of ihe Peace, till he was succeeded in that
office by Noah B. Harlow. He moved to Waterloo, and
died there.
The James family, of Welsh origin, were among the early
settlers in the American Bottom. Joseph Austin James em-
igrated to Illinois in 1803, accompanied by his son, Thomas
James, who was born in Maryland, in the year 1782, and
James A. He moved to Missouri in 1807, where he died.
Thomas James made his first trip to the Rocky mountains
in 1809, and returned in 1810. He was in the store at
Harrisonville for several years following the autumn of 1815,
and in 1821 embarked on a hazardous expedition to New
Mexico. He was made a general of the Illinois militia in
1825, and the same year was elected a member of the Leg-
islature, where he served two yea-s. He was appointed
postmaster at Monroe City, then called James' Mills, in 1827;
in 1832 served as major in the Black Hawk war, and died at
Monroe City, in December, 1847.
Col. James A. James, son of Joseph A. James, was born
in Kentucky, in 1798, andreceived a good education, attend-
ing the college at Beardstown, Kentucky. He married Miss
Susan O'Hara, a native of JNIonroe county. Col. James
was a man of considerable prominence in the county. His
residence was first in Renault precinct, and subsequently at
Harrisonville. He was a farmer, by occupation ; represented
Monroe and St- Clair counties in the State Legislature four
years. In 1827, he was colonel of State militia. Austin
James, son of Col. James, was born in the county in 1823.
Was a farmer; served in the Sixth Illinois Regiment dur-
ing the Mexican war ; Justice of the Peace several years ;
served in the State Legislature in 18G4 and in 1872, and
has been postmaster at Mitchie.
BRIDGEWATER.
The old town of Bridgewater, on the Mississippi, nearly a
mile above Harrisonville, was laid out by George Forquer
shortly after the year 1818. Forquer was the proprietor of
a store in partnership with his brother-in-law, William F.
Roberts, who was a millwright by trade. A man named
Meisner, a son-in-law of Dr. Caldwell Cairnes, kept store
there for a time. The high water of the spring of 1826
covered the most of the town site and drove the few inhabi-
tants to higher and more favored locations. Sylvester Har-
low, father of Noah B. Harlow, came here in 1826 ; he was
a native of Maine, came to Illinois in 1818, and previous to
settling at Bridgewater, had lived in the American Bottom
near Kaskaskia ; at this time the town of Bridgewater con-
tained ten or twelve houses, mostly built of hewed logs, but
the Harlow family were the only inhabitants. There was
some trouble about the titles to the lots which had been
sold, and finally about 1828 or 1829 Sylvanus Harlow pur-
chased the whole town site from Guy Morrison, who claimed
ownership. He was the owner till some time before his
death, when he conveyed the laud to his daughter, Lucinda,
who had married William Kinney. Harlow at one time
opened a small store; in 1830 he put up a distillery, a flour,
iug mill, and a saw mill, all run by the same engine ; these
were in operation five or six years, till the encroachments
of the river made advisable the removal of the buildings.
Soon after 1828 it became a shipping point, and Mr. Harlow
dealt largely in wood, which he sold to the steamers naviga-
ting the river. The wood business a , the river landings was
large and profitable in those days. Sylvanus Harlow died
at Bridgewater. Major X. F. Trail opened a store in 183.5,
and after carrying it on two or three years, removed to
Columbia. The water had been cutting away the river
bank for years, and by 1844 the greater part of the town
site had disappeared. It is now all in the river.
HARRISONVILLE.
The first seat of justice of Monroe county was at the old
town of Harrisonville, some distance west of the present
town of that name. The waters of the Mississippi now sweep
over its site. The first town projected here was called Car-
thage. The Legislature of the territory of Illinois at its ses-
sion in Kaskaskia during the winter of 1816-17, authorized
the name of it tt) be changed to Harrisonville ; the act bears
the date of the twenty -first of December, 1816. The new
name was given it in honor of Gen. William Henry Har-
rison, who ha<l occupied the position of Governor of the
northwestern territory, and who was afterward elected Pres-
ident of the United States. He invested in several tracts of
land in the bottom above Harrisonville, mostly in the pres-
ent Moredock precinct, the ownership of which he retained
till his death.
The site of the town came into the possession of John
Edgar, of Kaskaskia, who sold it to the firm of McKnight
& Brady ; * a man named Boise was proprietor of a store at
•Note.— In the " Illinois Intelligencer," published at Kask&skia, there ap-
pears the following advertisement, in the year 1819:
NOTICE.
"Whereas the public in general, and particularly tho.inhabitanU'of ^lonroo
county, are concerned for the honest grawth and prosperity of the county seat
of said Monroe county at Harrisonville ; Therefore, for the information of the
public, I do certify that I have sold all my claim to the hind, nheroii the .'aid
414
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Harrisoiiville at an early day. Thomas James began his
mercantile career at Harrisonville in the fall of 1815 as the
manager of McKuight& Brady's store. In this firm Frede-
rick Dent, the father-in-law of Gen. Grant, owned a consi-
derable interest, and he used to visit the place frequently.
MoKnight accompanied Thomas James to New Mexico in
18'21, and was killed by the Comanche Indians. John
S. Beaumont carried on a store in 1818, or 1819. He went
to Shawneetown. An advertisement in a Kaskaskia paper
shows that Alexander Jameson, Thomas James, and Jesse
W. Cooper, leading residents of Harrisonville and vicinity,
were appointed to receive subscriptions to the capital stock
of the State Bank of Illinois at Kaskaskia. McKnight &
Brady erected a brick store-house and a frame dwelling-
house. Aside from these, a few scattering buildings com-
pose the town. There were two ferries, between 182G and
18:^.0, both operated by horse power. One was carried on
by Adam Smith, who moved down from Bridgewater in
182r., and the other by William Ellis. The latter was a
resident of Herculaneum, ou the opposite side of the river.
Herculaneum in those days was a thriving town. It had
four stores, and was the depot of supplies and the place of
shipment of the Missouri lead mines. Much business was
also transacted at Bates Landing, just below Herculaneum,
where there was a large store and shot tower. The JMonroe
county farmers often went to Herculaneum to buy goods
and sell produce, and thus there was sufficient patronage for
both ferries. Herculaneum was the county seat of Jefferson
county, Missouri, at the same time that Harrisonville was
the seat of justice of Monroe county. About the year 1829
C. B. Fletcher, father of Thomas Fletcher, afterward
Governor of Missouri, who lived at Herculaneum, and car-
ried on a heavy business as a merchant, put up a log build-
ing a quarter of a mile east of the site of the old town, and
opened a store, of which Madison Miller had charge. Not
far from the same line Matthias T. Horine started a store in
the McKnight & Brady store-house. For some years pre-
vious to this there had been no store. The town site at this
time was in the possession of Col. James A. James. The
Fletcher store was afterward moved east to the Jameson
tract, on which the new town of Harrisonville is built.
Madison Miller, who had married Fletcher's daughter, was
still in charge. The Horine store was carried on in the old
town till 1840, and then also moved east, and established in
a frame building constructed on the south side of the street,
a little east of the present James store. The Horines were
the last who did business in the old town, and after 1840 it
was abandoned. In 1838 Col. James A. James, the proprie-
tor of the town, and a man named Vanardsdale, were the
p.mntyseat is situate, to Messrs. MoKniglit & Brady, aiiJ Icnow of no oDicr
claim to said land than tlmt of tlie above named McKnight &■ Brady."
Kaakaskia, May Vi, 1819.
only residents. James was the owner of the ferry. The
river each year washed away more and more of the land
on which the town was built, and by 1860 the last of the
buildings had disappeared in the waters of the Mississippi.
The early courts were held in Harrisonville during the
time it was the county seat. A jail was erected for the con-
finement of prisoners.
NEW HARRISONVILLE.
The Fletcher and Horine stores, which we have stated
had been established on the site of the present town of Har-
risonville, were carried on together for some years. The
latter store was owned by Matthias T. and Harrison Horine.
Fletcher's store was discontinued, and after the high water
of 1844 the Horines moved their store to Waterloo. Matthi-
as T. Horine remained till 1816, and kept some goods on
hand, though he did not pretend to do much business as a
merchant. At the flood of 1844 the water stood about
twelve feet deep in the streets of Harrisonville.
About the year 1846 the Horine farm, part of claim 511,
survey 497, was purchased by Noah B. Harlow, who in
1852 opened a store on the south side of the street.
About the same time he laid out the town of New Har-
risonville. Three years afterward he built the brick store-
house now owned by the James' store. Thomas James
started a second store on the old Horine place, where Wil-
liam Bamber now lives, and Bamber and James went into
partnership in the mercantile business. James subsequently
removed part of the goods to the Andrew Kinney farm, be-
low Monroe city, and Bamber disposed of his interest to
Harlow, who again had the only store in the place. He
sold his store to Jacob and Fred. Meyer, and they to
Thomas James, Bennett James and William Kinney. This
was the only store till Lewis Ihorn started another in 1875.
William Bamber, a native of IMaryland, whose father came
to Prairie du Long in 1820, has been a resident of Harrison-
ville since 1852.
The business interests of Harrisonville are now repre-
sented as follows: Merchants, James & Hurst (Charles
James and Lewis Hurst), and Lewis Ihorn ct Co. (Lewis
Ihorn, John Graziano and AVilliam Ihorn) ; Blacksmiths,
John Merkle, Joseph Vanon and Henry Neiman ; Saddler
and Harness Maker, Herman Diemert ; Shoemakers, Henry
Josephs and Frederick Heuwendieck ; Physicians, Drs.
Samuel Skeel and W. S. Johnson, Dr. G. P. Livingston and
Dr. William James. There are two churches, the Catholic
church of St. Francis, built 1868, and St. Paul's Lutheran
church, built 1880. The Rev. B. Quitter is pastor of the
Catholic congregation. William Ihorn is the postmaster
About 1870 only half a-dozen fiimilies composed the popula-
tion of the town, and the place has been mostly built
up since 1875. There are now about twenty-five dwelling-
houses. It is an important shipping point.
EVANSVILLE.
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
VAXSVILLE precinct, is a fine body of
laud ; bounded on the north by Baldwin,
on the east by Central, on the south by
Florence, and on the west by the Kaskas-
kia river. It is drained in the northern
portion, by Plum creek. In the south-
eastern by Butter creek, which empties
into Nine Slile creek, running along
its southern boundary. The land in the
eastern portion is quite level, that along the western bound-
ary somewhat broken. The wooded districts comprise a
portion, about one-third in size, as compared to the cleared
land. The farms are in a fine state of cultivation, and the
primitive cabin of the first settlers has given place to the
modern structure, and two story frame and brick dwellings,
are numerous. The farmers are thrift)-. The German element
predominates in the western and middle portions, while in
the vicinity of Preston, there still remain some of the des-
cendants of the original Scotch-Irish who were the first to
encounter the perils of early emigration.
About the year 1780, a settlement was made about the
mouth of Nine Mile creek, by some of Col. Clarks old soldiers,
and some friends, whom they had persuaded to come along
with them to the country. Of these, Daniel Hicks, Henry
and Elijah Smith, Hilderbrand, Hayden, Lunceford and
others were prominent. They nearly all lived and died in
the settlement. Lunceford went to St. Clair county, 111.,
where he left quite a large number of descendants. These
were undoubtedly the first settlements made in this precinct,
and but little can be learned of them at this date. A local-
ity famous in early days, was called the Irish settlement,
which was located near the mouth of Plum Creek, and
derives its name from the fact that the Irish settlers were
called South Carolina Irish. The place was probably first
settled by a man, eminent, even at that early day, for great
energy and activity, James Patterson, from the Abbeville
district, South Carolina. He afterwards settled upon the
site of Preston village, in 1804. This old pioneer held the
offices of Justice of the Peace and County Commissioner, and
also made himself conspicuous as a ranger in the war of 1812.
He had four sons, John, Samuel, Keuben and James Harvey.
John, after living for several years in the same settlement,
with his father, moved to Hill Prairie, where in 18;>7, he
died. Samuel settled in Horse Prairie ; Reuben, in Heacock
Prairie ; James H. lived on the farm, first settled by his
father. John Fulton, another addition to this settlement,
came in 1812. He proved to be of considerable aid, in pro-
moting the best interests of the little community. His sons,
Thomas, David and Cyrus, all located in the neighborhood.
On the 2-5th of December, If^H, a great addition was made
to this settlement by the arrival of the families of luliii Mc-
Clinton, David and James Anderson and Adam Hill, all of
whom numbering thirty-one sons came from the Abbeville
District, South Carolina. David Anderson was called on
frequently to fill places of trust and honor, and was a very
popular colonel of the militia. He left no sons, all dying
while young. His oldest daughter married Robert G. Shan-
non. His brother James only lived a few years after com-
ing to' Illinois. Adam Hill, one of the four sons, settled near
Lvansville, living there until his death. His sons were John,
William, Adam, Robert, and Samuel. There was a further
increase of the Irish settlement in the latter part of the voar
1804, b}- the arrival of Absalom Cox, James and Archibald
Thompson, William McBride and Robert ilcDonald, and
others. Archibald Thompson was noted for his efficiency
and excellence of character. After living a few years in the
settlement he moved in 1812 to a place two miles south of
Evansville, where he died in 1833. His sons were Robert,
William, Morris, Archibald, John and James.
William McBride, though advanced in years when he
came to the Irish settlement, still endeared himself to every
one by the mode of his life, and the manner in which he
endured the hardships of the country. He died in 1818. His
sons Thomas, John and William, settled in the neighbor-
hood. Thomas left two sons, William and John. William
McBride was captain of a militia company in I'^IS, and was
also once a county commissioner. Alexander Clark, who
came to the settlement in 180.5, located three miles south of
where Evansville now stands. Samuel Crozier and George
Wilson came to the settlement in 1806. Samuel Crozier
settled two miles south of Evansville. Being a man of talents
and fine character he soon attained a leading position and
received high recognition. Some of his descendents are still
living in the county.
In the year 1807 John Campbell settled near the mouth
of Nine Mile creek, and subsequently died in 1827, four
miles east of Evansville. Robert Forster was another old
settler who built a mill, run by horse power, and a steam
distillery near the mouth of Plum creek. These improve-
ments were the attractions that caused the settlement to grow-
rapidly. John Ander.son came in 1808 and first settled near
his brother, Colonel Anderson, where he lived until his death.
In 1808 William Barnett came from Kentucky. He died
in 1818.
A block-house was erected in the Irish settlement in 181 2,
rendered necessary bv Indian hostilities. Andrew Borders
415
416
HISTOIiY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
came to the settlement. He worked when a young man in
the distillery of Eobert Foster. Alexander Campbell came
to the Irish settlement in the year 1819.
In 1820 Robert Bratney came from Tennessee. He settled
on Plum creek. His sons were : John B., Robert N. and
James C. Robert Bratney was a soldier of the revolutionary
war and did his country good service.
There came to Randolph county in 1821 a rather remark-
able man, who, if not a pioneer, deserves mention as an
early immigrant, James Pollock. This gentleman, to whom
the county is greatly indebted for an example of energy
and thrift, came from Beaver county, Pennsylvania, to St.
Louis in 1818. Here he followed the trade of tanner for a
short time, when, seized with the immigration fever, he came
to Randolph county, and settled where Preston now stands.
In 1822 he married Ann Eliza Conway, whose father was
once scalped and left for dead by the Indians in one of those
bloody skirmishes so frequent in these days. James Pollock
purchased a form of John Rankin, who had previously pur-
chased of Washington Sterritt, and erected on it a tan-yard.
This was a new enterprise, and Mr. Pollock being a man of
energy and sagacity, did not wait for tr.ide to come to' him.
^^^len hides were scarce, he bought cattle and slaughtered
them, and, loading the carcases on boat, pushed off' down
the river, visiting the towns as far as New Orleans; and,
disposing of his beef, returned to load up a new supply. In
this wav he maintained his business and increased his pro
pertv, until he owned all the land upoij, which Preston
stands, and much in the vicinity. He died in 1867. He was
the father of twelve children.
John H. McCarty originally came from Kentucky in 1828,
and was a prominent man, holding at times the offices of
sheriff, assessor and treasurer.
Mary M. Bratney, wife of John B. Bratney, who resides
at Preston, is a daughter of James Pollock, above mentioned.
Her husband is the son of James Bratney, who came from
Ireland to Tennessee, and thence to Randolph county with
his father, Robert Bratney, who was a gallant soldier in the
war of the Revolution. Joseph Bratney, his son, served in
the war of 1812, under General Jackson. On their arrival
in Randolph county, the family entered a half section of
land on Little Plum creek, just above its mouth.
The Hon. Jonathan Chesnutwood is one of the oldest re-
sidents in Evansville. He is the son of Samuel Chesnut-
wood and Hannah Hughs, who were united in marriage in
1796 in Lancaster county. Pa. Jonathan was born in Stark
county, Ohio, in the year 182.5, and was the youngest in a
family of nine. He entered upon a classical course of study
at Marietta in 1847. After three years he engaged in mer-
cantile pursuits, and in 1852 came to Evansville, where he
has since resided.
Paul Pautler, of Evansville, is one of the oldest German
residents. He was born in Alsace, France, in 1834. His
father, Joseph Pautler, emigrated to this country, landing
at New York in 1847. He went from there, first to Erie
county, in western New York. In 1852 Paul came to Ran-
dolph county, Illinois.
Dr. Rudolph Homaa is a native of Hanover, Germany.
He emigrated to this country January, 1838, and first set-
tled in St. Louis, attending school until 1845, when he went
as midshipman on the man of-war " Susquehanna," served
until 1847, when, having temporarily lost the use of his
eyes by an explosion, he returned to St. Louis and studied
medicine with Prof. Pope, and graduated from the Univer-
sity. He first began to practice in Centreville and George-
town, St. Clair county. Ills., and in 1856 came to Randolph
county, where he has since practiced in Evansville.
Charles Ohms, Wilhelm Ricknagel, John Shuline, Daniel
Berthole and Frank Vacht, are residents of the precinct
living along the road between Preston and Evansville, who
came from St. Clair county, 111., in 1856. They were
originally from Germany. Valentine Wehrheim is the son
of John Wehrheim who came to this country from Germany
in 1834, and landed first in New Orleans, and came thence
to St. Louis, and thence to Randolph county. The year
1854, marks his advent to Evansville, where he entered
upon an extensive and prosperous career, leaving the im-
press of his energy on Evansville and the surrounding
country, where he is still remembered.
He built the flouring mill in conjunction with Cadwell
Evans, which was destroyed in 1864 by fire. He rebuilt
the mill, and it still stands a monument to his foresight and
thrift. N. and W. Sauer are the sons of Philip Sauer, who
emigrated from Hesse Cassel, Germany, in or about 1833.
He settled first in Monroe county, engaged in farming, and
afterwards came to Randolph county.
A true specimen of the old pioneer is, Wiley Roberts,
living about two miles from the town of Evansville in a
southwestly direction, on a farm situated between survey's
442 and 444. His father, Thomas Roberts, came from
Kentucky in the year 1787. His mother's name was Jane
Preston, a daughter of Daniel Preston, a native of Penna.
Thomas Roberts first settled in Randolph county near
Kaskaskia, on Gen. Edgar's land. He remained there
until his death in 1860. He raised nine sons. One
daughter died while young. His sons names were William,
John, Preston, Jacob, Wiley, Thomas, Darius, Voluey
and Perry, all of whom except William settled in the
county. Thomas, the father of the above children, was a
scout and ranger along with captain McDonough, major
Hughes and others. He was a county commissioner and
judge under the old law, at the same time that judge
Thompson, Hyzer and Gillispie held their positions. Wiley
Roberts was born in Randolph county, April 30th, 1822,
near the place where he now lies. He served in the Mexi-
can war under Captain Rozier and Col. John C. Fremont,
and was mustered out at the close of the war at Fort
Leavenworth.
TOWN OF EVANSVILLE.
Evansville is beautifully situated on the eastern side of
the Kaskaskia river about 10 miles from Kaskaskia. The
land upon which it is built is hilly, affording good drainage
and fine plats for private residents. The town was laid out
in 1834 by Cadwell Evans. Prior to that time in 1811
Andrew White formed the town site, and after some years
416A
fARM RESIDENCE OF J. W
^^EdmTn'^MITCHIE PRECINCT, MONROE CO ILL
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
417
sold out to Adam Henderson, who in turn sold it to Levi
North. A ferry was run across the river by North, called
after him, "North's Ferry," a name by which it was for a
long time known. Eli Chappell purchased the property
from North, and in turn sold it to Cadwell Evans, from
whom it took the name Evansville. The first buildings
erected were a dwelling-house, and wag m and plough shop.
In l?*.'i7, Mr. Evans built a horse mill, and Paul Craddock
a cooper shop. The next year a tan yard was opened by
Edmund Eccles and Joseph Bratney. Mr. Evans at the
same time started a hotel. In the year following William
McNeal commenced the saddlery business, and in 1840,
William McKee O'Melveny opened a store for general mer-
chandizing. At this time it seemed probable the town
would grow up to a flourishing place, and great expectations
were entertained in regard to its importance. But a crash
came, and it remained without any increase in the way of
improvements, until the year 1847, when that industrious
and capable man before mentioned, John Wehrheim, opened
a store. Another accession of importance to the place was
made in lSo'2, by the arrival of Jonathan Chesiiutwuod and
his large stock ot goods. Al)iiut this time John Wehrheim
built a mill which contributed largely to the growth of the
place. The river afibrded facilities for the transportat'on of
flour, and the mill was the " Mecca," to which the farmers
far and near directed their footsteps for flour for family use.
In 18.J7 a brewery was built, and many yet living can at-
test to the good quality of the product. Thus, the little
town gained new accessions, and feeling its importance, bid
for the county seat against Chester. The country around
partook of its enterprise, and the farmers of, the neighbor-
hood organized an agricultural society, that gave several
very creditable exhibitions, and ultimately united its force
with the Randolph County Agricultural Society, dropp ng
its cognomen of Western Randolph Agricultural Society,
which doubtless was a wise and proper movement.
In the last few years Evansville has been slowly but
steadily improving ; the Kaskaskia river is now success-
fully navigated, and secures beyond all hazard the transpor-
tation for its mills and other products; an advantage that
must enhance its future pro.'perity. Steamboats ply between
P^vansville and Chester. The town now has a population
of 500, and contains several substantial brick and frame
residences and business houses. It has a good mill ; it is
owned by N. and W- Sauer. The capacity of the mill is
two hundred barrels per day. It has two churches — one
Catholic, and one German Lutheran ; both fine brick edifices.
Two school-houses — one Catholic, and a free school.
The ferry by which conveyance is had across the river is
owned by the Messrs. Williamson and Cragin. Evansville
has in addition to the above the following places of business:
One dry gomls Morr kept by the Wagner Brothers ; one dry
ijtiods -store kept by Valentine Wehrheim ; one dru;/ st(jrr by
the Postmaster WiUinia H. Grant; one puff-offire ; tour ph i/-
!iirtriiv<, Rudolph Homan, M. I)., Jerome Thompson, M. D.,
Dr. W. J. Crozier and J. M. Wilson, M. D. ; one blaekmnith
and marlilne shop, hy Peter Baumbauer; one ahoenviking
yhop, F. Wulf ; one Police Ma;/i4rate, Henry G. Meyerott ;
one Jwitice of the Pence, James S. Gray; one saddle undh'ir-
nexs shop, Henry Rabe. There is also a lime done quarry
and a cooper xhop. The latter is run in connection with the
mill. There are three holeU One is kept by Paul Pautlir,
one by Henry Pautler and one by Joseph Meyer.
There are several miIooiis and feed st'(ble-<. The citizens
are mostly of German descent, and exhibit the social traits
peculiar to the race, enjoying the pic-nic and the dance.
They are also highly moral and cultivated. Attending to their
own business, conservative in politics and religion they con-
stitute a pleasant coniniuuitv.
I'I'.ESTON VlLI.AciE
This is a very quiet place, with a fuw good family re.--i-
dences. Preston owes much of the interest attaching to it
from the church location here, which is considered the mother
of Associate Reformed churches in Illinois.
James Patterson settled upou the town site in I8il4, and
sold out in 181(1 to Washington Sterrit, who in turn sold to
John Rankin in 1820. James Pollock bought ot the latter
and e--tablished a tan yard in 182.1. Samuel B. Strankey
opened a store in 18:!3 ; Pollock and Bratney also opened a
store in 18.J.5, and the town lots were surveyed and laid off
May VI, 18;?(;, by Samuel G. Thompsun, deputy county sur-
veyor. The village is located on section 10 in the N. E.
corner of the precinct, and has a population of about one
himdred. It contains one dry ijoods More kept by W. J.
Hill ; a post-office, Postmadcr J. B. Bratney ; Deputy Pod-
master \\ . J. Hill ; two blacksmith ^hopa, one uagon mahtr's
shop, one saw mill, one phy.iicinn, J. W. Seniple, M. D., and
one schaol-hoaae. The village owes much of its renown to its
being the locality where was formed a church that dates
back to 1810, called the original " Associate Reformed Pres-
byterian."
BIOGBAPHIES
JOSEPH PAUTLER, Sr. (Deceased.)
The Pautler family is one of the most respected in the
vicinity of Evansville, and its members are closely con-
nected with the early progress and development of that
section of the country.
Joseph Pautler, Sr., was born at Bremmelbach, Canton
Sulz, Alsace, on the 2'2d day of December, 1801. There he
received a limited education in the German language, and
later learned the trade of stonemason, which profession he
followed for nine years. He afterward went to farming
and trading. In the year 1823 he was married to Margar-
etha Weckerle, a native of the same village. They had
six children, three boys and three girls, the names of which
are, in the order of their birth : Margaretha, Jo, Christina,
Franzi-ska, Bernhard and Wendelin, all natives of Bremmel-
bach.
In the spring of the year 184(5 he sent his eldest son,
Joseph, to America on a prospecting tour, who was followed
by his daughter, Christina, in autumn of the same year. In
418
the fall of the year 1847 he, with the remainder of the
family, emigrated to America. The voyage was accomplished
in 32 days, on the sailing vessel "Seville de Grace." His
first settlement was in Erie County, N. Y., near Buffalo,
where he purchased a farm and erected a saw mill, in con-
nection with a partner by the name of H. Weiberle.
On the 2,jth day of March, 18.50, his, wife died. In the
fall of the .same year he married Miss Henrietta Dieze, a
native of Prussia. They had five children, four boys and
one girl : Henry, Salome, wife of Joseph Schwarz, John,
deceased, John W. and Peter Paul. In autumn 18.56 he
came to Randolph county, Illinois, where he bought a farm
of 144 acres, two miles south of Evansville.
Mr. Pautler died on the 16th day of January, 1873. He
had always been a devout member of the Catholic Church,
and a staunch Democrat. His remains are interred in the
Catholic cemetery at Evansville.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
419
Dr. WILLIAM J. CROZIER.
Among the rising young physicians of Randolph county,
none by virtue of close application to business, and determina-
tion to become masters in their profession, deserve more
honorable mention than he whose name heads this article.
His ancestors came from South Carolina to this county as
early as 180(1. The Crozier family has always sustained a
very respectable position in the community. The parents of
the subject of this sketch were Samuel P. and Caroline
Crozier. The mother's maiden name was Hill. His father
is a man of eminent social qualities. William J. was edu-
cated in the Sparta Public Schools, where he enjoyed the
skill of Supt. S. B. Hood as an instructor. After completing
the course of study, prescribed in the public schools, he de-
voted his time to the study of medicine under direction of
Jerome Thompson in 1>'79. In the fall of thesame year he
entered the Missouri Medical College, at St- Louis, as a
student, and graduated therefrom March 2d, lf<''^l In
August of the same year he opened an office in the town of
Evansville, and since has devoted his time and attention
most industriously to the practice. Thoroughly in love with
his calling, and alive to the importance of vigorous, unre-
mitting effort, he is making rapid headway. Habits of in-
dustry, such as he cultivates, bring their due reward. He
makes ophthalmology rather a specialty, taking great delight
in its investigation and practice. Politically the doctor is a
Democrat. Socially he is highniiuded, generous and com-
pa.ssionate.
WILLIAM H. GRANT.
Amonc the pushing, energetic young men of Evansville
none possess more merit or are more deserving of mention
than William H. Grant. H-; was born in Rich view, Wash-
ington county, Illinois, April 8th, 18-54. His father, Robert
H. Grant, a millwright by trade, was a native of Scotland
where he was born January '2"2d, 182.3. He prosecuted his
business in Randolph county for some years, during which
timeiie erected the Sparta and Union mills at Sparta and
the mill at Steelesville. He was considered an adept in his
line of work. He died October 23d, 1870. The mother
of William H. who.se maiden name was Sarah J. Allen,
was born October 22d, 18;!o, and died February 21st,
1861. The subject of this sketch obtained most of
his education at Sparta, under the present Supi.rinten-
dent of schools of the county, S. B. Hood. His first
experience in business was as a clerk. In 187'J he set
up for himself in ])nisecuting the drug busine.ss in Evansville
In this he has been quite successful, a careful prescriptionist,
a skilled pharmacist, he secures such encouragement as such
care and skill command. In 188'3 he was appointed post-
master for Evansville. Prior to this, in fact ever since 1879
when he opened his store he had been discharging the duties
of such official, being a deputy to his predecessor. He was
united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Wehrheim, daughter
of John and Elizabeth Wehrheim, November 29th, 1881.
The Wehrheims are among the best citizens of the county.
John was a man of great activity and business tact.
Politically Mr. Grant is a strong and active Republican,
outspoken and earnest in maintaining his position. Socially
he is a clever gentleman.
NICHOLAS SAUER
NifHOi,.\s Saueh is not only one of the leading business
men of Evansville, but of the Kaskaskia Valley. His
name betrays his Teutonic origin. His father, Philip Sauer,
was a native of Germany, from which country he ""-^p first
to Pennsylvania, in 183'). He was one of
patriotic, energetic characters, so common among Germa^i
immigrants. He married Elizabeth Seorel, a woman worthy
of such a husband.
Nicholas Sauer was born in Monroe county, Illinois,
March 21, 1841. He obtained a fair education, such as fall
to the lot of farmers' sons in rural districts. In 18(36, he
commenced merchandising in Mascoutah, St. Clair county,
Illinois. This he followed but a short time, leaving that
point for his present home, where he has ever since been en-
gaged in milling. By the exercise of sound judgment in
its management, the introduction of new and approved
machinery in its make-up, he has made the reputation of
his mill second to none.
He was united in marriage with Miss Elizabeth Gerlach,
daughter of John Gerlach, a citizen of Monroe county.
July 21, l86ij. Five children have been born to them,
naraelv: John William, Philip Edward, Magdalena Eliza-
beth, Philip Emil and George Philip.
Mr. Sauer is one of the representative Republicans in his
section of the county. He is proud of the fact that his first
presidential ballot was cast for the martyr President, Abra-
ham Lincoln.
As a citizen no one is more patriotic, or contributes more
to enhance the prosperity of his adopted village, than Mr.
Sauer. A thorough-going business man, a genial gentleman,
success smiles upon him.
CENTRAL
RANDOLPH CO.
J]NTRAL precinct, from its location in the
county, doubtless takes its name ; it is loca-
ted mostly in L. 5, R. 6 W. It contains
thirty-six sections of land. About one-fourth
of the area is prairie, and the remainder is
slightly broken and hilly and covered in
places with timber ; this is the character
more especially of the northern and western
portions. The head waters of the Little Plum creek have
their origin in the north. A branch of Pillars creek waters
the southeast. Baldwin and Tilden bound Central on the
north, Sparta on the east, Blair bounds it on the south, and
Evansville on the west side.
John Lively, whose name will be immortalized by the
prairie called after him, was undoubtedly the pioneer of this
])recinct, and first settler on it in 1805 ; section -i was the
localitv of the old home, and it has ever since been the
home of some of the name. John Lively die i in 182(5 ; he
was a brother of Joseph Lively who came from Abbeville,
South Carolina, and settled three miles north of Kaskaskia.
John, as was also his brother, was a rather notable man ; he
exhibited some noble traits of character, and his memory is
yet held in veneration by his descendants. He was
originally from South Carolina. He took part in the
war of 1812, and when he came to Illinois engaged in the
ranging service ; he also served in the Black Hawk war
He was also in the war of the Revolution. He was a soldier
by nature, and engaged in service of some kind from his
youth. A splendid marksman, he used to supply his table
with the wild game of the forest ; his latch string always
hung out, and many a traveler could testify to his bountiful
hospitality, and many a sufferer on a sick-bed received adeli-
cate morsel from his unerring rifle. His residence was ex-
tensively known.
Samuel A. Mann, now living on section 14, T. 5, R. 7,
came to Randolph county with his father, Robert M. Mann,
in 1817. His ancestors were from the Abbeville district
in South Carolina. His father, Robert M., was born there
in 1771, and was there married in 1795 to Mary Houston.
About 1807 Robert M. Mann left South Carolina with his
family, intending to settle in Illinois ; when he got as far as
Kentucky, the tidings received of the Indian depredations
deterred him from proceeding further, and he settled in
Logan county, Kentucky, and remained there until 1817,
when he came to Randolph county. He had at that time
eight children ; Samuel Alexander Mann was the youngest
son, and was about three years old when his father arrived
in Randolph county. Robert M. Mann died on the land
420
where he first located in the year 1855, at the great age of
eighty four Samuel Alexander Maun was born in Logan
county, Kentucky, on February 28th, 1815.
John M. Beaty, living on section 12, is the son of John
Beaty, whose father, John, came from South Carolina in
1808. The father of John M was a participant in the war
of 1812. His grandfather was a retired and quiet man, yet
esteemed a valuable citizeu, and a man of considerable force
of character ; he left three sons, some of whom are living.
John Beaty, the father of Johu M , was born in South
Carolina, and came to Illinois with his father; he married
Elizabeth Maun, by whom he had eight children — four sons
and four daughters ; John M., on section 12, and Charles,
living on section 17, are two of the sons; Robert T. Beaty
was the name of another son ; the name is often spelled
Beattie. He built the first house on section 17, and opened
the first farm.
Robert N. Bratney is the son of Joseph Bratney, who
came to Randolph county in 1820, along with his father,
Robert Bratney. Joseph Bratney was a soldier under Gen-
eral Jackson in the war of 1812. Robert N. was the second
son and third child of Joseph Bratney and his wife Eleanor
(Beaty), and was born in 1829. Charles Beattie, an uncle,
raised him on the place where he now lives, which formerly
was called the ' old Beaty farm."
William Weir is the sou of Robert Weir, who came to this
country from Ireland and first settled in South Carolina, from
whence he removed to Randolph county, Illinois, in the year
1821, and settled on section 17. He raised six sons and two
daughters, all of whom settled in the same locality. His
sons were James N., Samuel T., William, Samuel, James B.
and John.
John B. Wilson came from Scotland in 1854, and first
located in Maryland, where he resided until 1857, when he
came to Sparta, Randolph county, Illinois. He opened a
coal mine the same year on section 17, and after a short
time took charge of the Rozier mine, formerly known as
the Ritchey mine, located in section 16. At this place he
has since resided, superintending the mine.
The Rozier mine is of the same vein as the Belleville, in
St. Clair county. It runs about six feet in thickness, and is
covered by a limestone roof of four feet in thickness. It is
well adapted for fuel or coke. The capacity of the mine is
25,000 bushels yearly, all of which finds a home market.
The coal is brought to the surface through a shaft by horse-
power. It was opened in the year 1840.
Among others worthy of mention as old settlers is Daniel
Gerlach, ex-sheriff of Randolph county. He was born in
fflSTOHY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY CQUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
421
Bavaria, Germany, September 9, 1885, he came to Illinois
in the spring of 1853.
James D. Thompson, living on section 14, is the son of
Jamfs Thompson, who came from Abbeville district, South
Carolina, about I'^H, and settled first at Kaskaskia and
afterwards in Evansville precinct, where he died in the
eighty-fourth year of his age. He was a surveyor, and was
the first county surveyor of Randolph county after its or-
ganization; he was also probate judge and captain in the
Black Hawk war, under Col. Gabriel Jones. He had five
sons: John P., Archibald C, James D., .Samuel H. and
Robert P., all of whom but John P. are living in Randolph
county. James D. has been county surveyor for three
terms.
Major Andrew Borders, from South Carolina, came to
Randolph county in 1816, and settled on a farm in section
•'?, township 5, range 6. He had several children born
here; he died in 18(i4. For a more extended sketch of this
prominent man see Sparta precinct. Major Borders and
Joseph Weir, the father of William Weir's wife, made up
the firpt school ever taught in this portion of the j)recinct.
The building was log, very small, and James Borders, now-
living in Sparta, a son of the Major, well recollects going to
the .school in or about the year l^-U. It was taught by a
man named Armour.
The following land entries were maile, viz. : January 10,
181M, Andrew Borders entered the N. E. qr. sec. 4, 134tSs
acres. March 7, 1817, Larkin Doyle entered the W. half
N. W. qr. sec. 4, GSiVci acres. July 12, 181tj, John Lively
entered the S. W. qr. sec 4, 160 acres.
The population of the precinct are generally descendants
of the Scotch and Irish pioneers from South Carolina ; and
belong to some branch of the Presbyterian Church. There
are a few German families settled along the western boun-
dary of the precinct, who are industrious and thrifty.
The old settlers have nearly all passed away, and much
that might have been of interest to their descendants has
been lost to the memory of some now living.
The first burial-place was on the farm of John Lively.
The only church in the precinct h located on section 5. It
belongs to the Baptists, and is called " Fairview." There
are now four school-houses in the precinct.
The first grist-mill was built by Major Borders on section
4, on land now owned by Silas M. Lott. Thomas Weir also
built a mill shortly afterward on section 21. These mills
were run by horse-power. Tne farmers bringing grain fur-
nished the h«rses and awaited their turn, the rule being,
" first come, first served." Those who came from a distance
and were compelled, sometimes brought with them blankets
and provisions. Time passed pleasantly, and the oppor-
tunity for social greeting and an interchange of neighbor-
hood news was not to be forgotten.
The Cairo and St. Louis R.R. passes diagonally across the
northeast corner of the township.
HOUSTON .STATION.
This is a small hamlet containing a dozen families and a
population of perhaps 50 individuals, situated on the Cairo
and St. Louis Narrow Gauge Railroad, before mentioned.
It is located on the east half of the northeast quarter of
section 2!(, township 4, range 6 west, according to survey. It
can boa<t of a grain elevator, with a capacity for storing ten
thousand bushels of grain.
Store— By W. C. McKee.
Post office.— Post-master, W. C. McKee.
Elera(ur.—\y. C. McKee.
Blucksmith Shop. — R. C- Temple.
Physieian.— Dr. Hugh C. Gait.
Millinery. — Mrs. Ellen McCandless.
The commissioners for Central precinct are : James J.
Borders, Martin Ireland and John B. Frank.
'^'Cl^
^S^-
BLUFF.
MONROE COUNTY.
N the limits of the present Blufl" precinct the
earliest settlement was made in the year
1796 bj' several families by the name of
Short) Griffins, Gibbons, Roberts, and
Valentine. This colony remained only a
few years, and its members then scattered
to other localities. It must have been quite
numerous at one time, for years afterward
.'« could be seen a large graveyard in which
the early pioneers were buried, on the creek, between Mon-
roe city and the bottom, which by the early settlers was
called Ryan's creek, from the fact that Josiah Ryan had
settled on it in the bottom under the bluff. Daniel Shultz,
also made an early settlement here. Where Monroe
City now stands Andrew Kinney built a water mill,
and this vicinity, at an early time, became one of the im-
portant business points of the county. From this mill flour
was shipped to St. Louis and to New Orleans before the war
of 1812. Kinney was one of the sons of Joseph Kinney,
who settled east of New Design, aud there built one of the
earliest water mills in the county. In building the mill,
Kinney was seriously injured by a piece of timber falling
on his breast. He was confined to his house for many years.
In 1818 he became a candidate for delegate to the conven-
422
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
tion which framed the original constitution of the State of
Illinois. He subsequently died in Missouri. Ilis brother,
Wm. Kinney, settled near Belleville, and became Lieuten-
ant-Governor of the State. On Ryan's creek, below Mon-
roe city, Josiah Ryan built a mill in 1798. The Kinney
farm, where Andrew Kinney lived, was on Ryan's creek,
below Monroe city. On the site of Kinney's mill, in the
year 1827, another mill was subsequently built by Gen.
Thomas James. A post-office was established there called
James' Mills. The mill afterward passed into the hands of
Lewis James. It was run as a water mill until 1851 ; it was
then changed to a steam mill. The scarcity of water occa-
sioned the suspension of the mill in dry seasons, and its in-
creasing trade made the introduction of steam a necessity.
The mill was afterward owned by James L. Garretson,
Uriah Harlow, and James Harlow. Wm. H. Bis.sell, after-
wards Governor of Illinois, began his distinguished career
at James' Mills, where he settled and for a time followed his
profession as a physician. He subsequently became a law-
yer. (See article on Bench and Bar for sketch of Geo.
Bissell).
About a mile south of Madonnaville was formerly an old
ox mill built by Thomas Harrison, of Belleville. Isaac J.
Bailey, and a Mr. Jarrot, operated this mill for a time for
Harrison. Settlers came from a distance to this mill. The
mill was located on what was known as the old tan yard
farm, on section 17, township 2, range 10. George Biggs,
one of the pioneer citizens of the county, resided on claim
777, survey 643, in township 3, range 10. At an early day
a family named Great lived in the hollow a mile below
Monroe city. They came from Maryland. John Great, one
of the sons, was a stonemason, and did the stone work of the
mill at Monroe city. He died at Prairie Du Pont. Arnold
Livers, of Frederick county, Maryland, came with the Great
family. He was about sixteen years of age when he arrived
in Illinois. He subsequently married and settled on the
northwest quarter of section 7, township 3, range 10. Joseph
Livers came out from Maryland some years afterward, and
located on the American Bottom, four miles north of Har-
risonville on the Nagel place in section 18. The Bryant
family settled at an early date. Prince Bryant lived on
this place in 1824 ; an old graveyard a short distance north
of Madonnaville was used as a burial place by the Bryants.
Elias Bryant lived on section IS. Wm Bryant's farm
was on section 11, and is now owned by William Pryor.
Orlando Mattingly lived on gection 32, T. 2, R. 10. The
farm was entered by his father. His widow married a man
named Foster, and the pond on the land was given the name
of Foster pond, which it has since retained.
Among the later population of the precinct were a large
number of German families, who settled here after the year
1840. In the vicinity of Madonnaville lived the Berger
family on the Kraft place in section 18. Matthias, John,
Sebastian, and Joseph Berger were the sons, only the last of
whom is now residing in the county. John P. Hoffman has
been living a mile east of Madonnaville since 1844. Other
early settlers were Francis Adelsberger, Michael Mentel,
Louis Gerster. Adam Andreas settled prior to 1845, on
section 18. Nicholas and Sebastian Andreas were his sons,
the former of whom is still living. Other early German
residents were Jacob Coerver, Francis Coerver, Henry
Mueller. The latter settled on section 5 in 1844. Peter,
George, John, and Henry Mueller were his sons. John
Harbaugh, a Pennsylvanian, came in 1845. Soon after came
Philip Knisler. John Christian Wilsenborn, has lived in the
neighborhood of Monroe city since 1846. He served in Co.
H. 2d Regiment, commanded by Col. Bissell, in the Mexican
war.
MONROE CITY.
A store was opened at this place (formerly called James'
Mill) in the year 1851. In the building now occupied as a
store by David Schein,a large mercantile business was here
carried on at one time, four clerks being occupied in the sale
of goods. About the time the store was started the place
came to be called Monroe city. In 1864 the stock of goods
was destroyed by fire. It then belonged to the Garret-
son heirs. The town now contains twenty dwelling-houses.
The mill, which has two run of burrs, is owned by Gottlieb
Ziebold, and is leased by Valentine Lupfer. David Schein
is proprietor of the store and postmaster. Adam Keiser,
blacksmith and wagon maker. Michael Eschman and Adam
Seipel are carpenters. There is a public school and tri-
weekly mail.
M.VDONNAVILLE
was laid out by Joseph W. Ruebsam. He erected the first
building ; it is now used as a store. Ruebsam started a store
shortly after the town was laid out. A man named Helmich
was also the proprietor of a store for some time. John
Eichenseer built the second dwelling. It is the stone house
now occupied by John Harbaugh. Ruebsam's stock of
goods was purchased in 1868 by George W. Harbaugh, who
kept the store until the spring of 1882. St. Mary's Catholic
Church was built in 1857. With the church is connected a
■parochial school. The village is now composed of nine
dwelling-houses, a church, a school-house, and a store. There
is a tri-weekly mail. The business men are John Wtiler,
merchant and postmaster ; Nicholas Schroeder, carpenter ;
and Michael Eichenseer, shoemaker.
WARTBURG
is the name of a new village that has Tately sprung up four
or five miles southwest of Waterloo, on the road from that
place to Monroe city. July 1st, 1881, a post-office was es-
tablished, with Louis P. Buettner, postmaster. He still
retains the position. He is also the proprietor of a store.
The village contains half a dozen dwellings, a carpenter
shop, and the Evangelical Lutheran Church of the Holy
Cross, with which a school is connected. The church is a
large stone building. The school has sixty or sixty-five
pupils. An extensive pond near the town is known by the
name of Beaver Pond. It was at first the intention to call
the post-office by that name, but on account of its prevalence
as a title for post-office, the name of Wartburg was substi-
tuted in commemoration of the castle in Germany, where
Luther for some time resided, and translated the Bible.
Nearly all the members of the village are Lutherans.
STEELE'S MILLS.
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
HIS precinct is iu the eastern
part of the county, and ex-
cepting sections 31, '.i'2, 33,
34 and portions of 35 and
36, comprises the whole of
Township six south, range
five west, and also the south-
ern tier of sections of town-
ship five south, range five
west. The surface is divided
between prairie and timber
land. Theprecinct is supplied
with excellent roads, the principal being the Shawneetown
and Kaskaskia, which was an old Indian trail, and the
Sparta and Chester. The Cairo and St. Louis and the
Wabash, Chester and Western pass through it intersecting
at Percy. It derived its name from Steele's mills of which
George Steele was the proprietor at Georgetown, now
'Steelesville, at an early day. In 1880 it had a population
of 1,059. The number and character of its school buildings
testify in favor of a due ap])lieation of educational advan-
tages. Coal in great abundance underlies the surface and
is mined quite extensively. The first vein lies from thirty to
eighty feet below the surface, and has a thickness of about
seven feet, the second about twenty feet below the first, with
a thickness varying from four and a half to five feet, and
the third fifteen feet lower varies from two and a half
to three feet in thickness. The first two are covered with
limestone, the third with sandstone. The Barnard Coal
Mining and Transportation Company's mine is located half
a mile east of Percy, on land of R. J. Short. The company
was organized in IJSTI or '72. The shaft, which is one hun-
dred and twenty five feet deep, passes through two workable
veins. The coal is blasted out of the solid, and 7,0O0
to 8,000 bushels are daily raised. The mine is almost free
from water, and has a fine natural roof of bituminous shale
and limestone forty feet thick. David Brown sunk two
shafts on his land respectively on the N. W. J and the S. W.
i of section 11. The mines were in operation aboui eight
years, and together had a capacity varying from five hun-
dred to a thousand bushels a day. Gen. Madi.son Miller's
mine, on the S. W. i of sec. 14, is operated by Isaac Rury.
About two hundred bushels of coal are rai.sed daily by horse
power. Henry Bierraan's mine is on the S. I of section 25.
It is now under lease to B. F. Soper. The coal is dug and
raised by gin. Henry Weberling's mine on the N. E. } of
section 3G, is leased and worked by Theodore Hart ; the
coal is mined by horse power. These coal interests together
with a variety of soil consisting of prairie and upland,
make this one of the most iiuportant precincts iu the county.
The pioneer settler was John Steele. He was a native of
Summer county, Tennessee, and came to this county in 1798.
He was a man of self-reliance and courage and pushed his
way beyond the settlements already made, and in that year
located on the S. W. i of section 28. He came with wagons
and horses, and brought with him to the county his family,
consisting of his wife and seven children, viz., Archibald,
George, James, John, Thomas, Elizabeth and Catharine.
He made some improvements on section 28, where he
remained till 1807, when he moved to the W. A of section
16, where he improved a good farm and lived until his death,
which occurred September 11th, 1^20. Archibald was born
July 24th, 1798. In 1812 he married Elizabeth Flack and
settled on his father's place in section 16. His childrenjwere
Anthony, Jefl'erson, Ryland, Merritt, Jasjier, Mahala,
Delila, Lucinda, Harriett, Minerva and Lindsay. He died
April 9th, 1859. George, the original proprietor of Stteles-
ville, settled near the center of section 16, where this village
now stands, in 1810. He married Nancy Steele by whom he
had five children, James, Thomas, Melinda, Mariah and Re-
nia. James, brother of George, married Matilda White some
time prior to 181 2. By her he had seven children, viz. Sidney,
Lafayette, Araminta, Martha, Margaret, Sarah and Mary.
Mr. Steele settled on the N. W. i of section 28, where he
remained till the year 1848, when he went to Wisconsin,
where he died about 18G4. John, brother of James, about
1818, married Elizabeth Davis, by whom he had eight
children, Alfred, Matthew, Martin, M. E., now living in
Steelsville, Elvira, Huldah, Cynthia, and Margaret E. Two
other children died in infancy. About 1818 Mr. Steele
entered the S. E i of section 28 where he lived till his death,
which occurred in 1872. Thomas, brother of the above,
married Nancy Holloman, by whom he had six children,
Wilson, Carl, Romina, Ro.salvey, Fidelia, and Emily. He
settled on the S. W. i of section 28, where his home was for
life. Elizabeth, sister of Thomas, came with her father as
the widow of .lohn McCallaster. She afterward married
George Crcth, and Catherine her sister married a Steele in
Tennessee, and with her husband and two children came in
company with her father. Her husband settled on section
22 at an early day.
The next settler in the year 1808, was Jacob Bowerman.
423
4'>4
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
He was a man of marked decision and force of character,
and he was possessed of a fertile mechanical genius. He was
the pioneer blacksmith of the settlement, and possessed great
skill in the manipulation of metals. He was an expert gun-
smith. He was born in 1773 and died in 1847. James
White, from South Carolina, made a settlement about 1808
in the W. i of section 17 about half a mile north of the
point where the road leading from Steelesville to Chester
crosses Mary's river. About this date, Augustus Davis, who
settled first at Kaskaskia, came to the vicinity of Steeles-
ville. The Robbison family were from South Carolina
Thev settled first at Kaskaskia about the year 1808. Not
long after this they came to township six, range five The
original ancestor was Richard. He had eight sons, John,
Joseph, Richard Jr., Jame.s, Shadrach, William, Thomas
and Jefferson. John came to the county a single man. At
Kaskaskia he married Barbara Synot. His two sons, John
S. and Richard, were born there. He settled on section 34,
and Richard occupied theold homestead from about 1832 till
his death. His wife was Betsy, daughter of John Thomason.
John S. now lives on section 34, where he settled in 1864.
His wife was Pariza Axum, by whonj he had eight children.
William settled near his brother John. Their descendants
are quite numerous in the county.
John Layue, a Tennesseean, settled near Steelesville in
1816, where he died. Emanuel Canaday settled in the
precinct in 1816. He afterward went to the Bradley settle-
ment near Shiloh Hill. Colonel Gabriel Jones with a
family from Adair county, Kentucky, arrived in 1817.
He settled about a mile west of Steelesville, on what become
known as the "old Colonel Jones place." He was a man
of talent, energy and activity, and took a lively interest in
the affairs of the community in which he lived. He repre-
sented the county in the General Assembly, and held other
positions of trust. He was made a colonel in the Black
Hawk war, and was a gallant soldier. About 1859, he was
mayor of the city of Chester, to which place he had pre-
viously removed, where his son Gabriel now resides.
His brother, Dr. Ashby Jones, practiced medicine in the
precinct at an early day. John Thomason was from
Georgia. He came by pack horses about 1816 or 18}7,
with his family, consisting of his wife, a son, George, a step-
son, David Simmons, and three daughters, Nancy, Letitia
and Elizabeth. He settled on section twenty-three.
Eli Short, came to the county from Kentucky in 1819,
and settled on section eleven in the prairie that still bears
his name. His means of conveyance to the county were
wagon and horses, by which he brought his wife, Betsy
Sanders, and his children, viz. Polly with her husband,
William Thraelkeld, and Dennard with his wife, Mary Ann
Ireland, and Juliet, Ann, John T., Thomas Jefferson and
Betsy. John T. donated the land on which the village of
Percy now stands. Thomas J., while a young man, was
killed in the Black Hawk war, in Wisconsin, July 21, 1832.
Mr. Short was, in many respects, a remarkable man. His
influence in the community in which he lived was wide-
spread, and in favor of industry and morality. He was
the pioneer settler in the beautiful prairie which he adopted
as the place of his activities and labors, and the first resident
minister in the precinct, and among the first in the county.
As a minister he belonged to the denomination of regular
Baptists, and in the early part of his career, held to the
doctrine of election with unswerving tenacity. He was a
man of strong common sense and of good powers of argu-
ment, and these added to a gift of language made him an
effective preacher and a wily adversary in defense of the
doctrines of his faith, an attack upon which his love of
argument sometimes induced him to invite. From the
narrow tenet of election, he turned to the broad doctrine of
universalism. An educated clergy he did not believe in,
holding that the true ministry were called not educated to
their office. He preached to the early settlers in his own
house, which he dedicated as a church, by arranging a little
platform or rest in the stair-case. He had a cider press on
his farm, and on meeting occasions dispensed cider as well
as gospel. In the course of one of his sermons, a question
arose in some way concerning the prophet Daniel. Daniel
Malone was in the audience, and according to a custom
quite common in those days of informally referring questions,
occasionally, to those preseht, it was addressed to him.
"What do you think about it, Daniel ?" thundered Mr.
Short. " Well, I think I would like to have some cider,"
was the reply amid much audible smiling. Mr. Short's
associate in ministerial labor was Rev. Silas Chrisler. At
this early day there was also a traveling missionary of the
Dunkard faith, who preached occasionally. Mr. Short was
severely wounded in the knee in the battle of the Thames.
He carried the buck shot there received all his life. He
and his commander, Col. Johnson, were riding together, and
both were wounded in the same volley. Short fell from his
horse and Johnson's rushed wildly into the presence of
Tecumseh, whom his rider shot dead. Thomas J. Short
now wears the watch his grandfather carried in that battle.
A comparatively early settler was Cornelius Adkins. He
brought with him his wife and children, Robert, Nancy,
Sarah, Vina, Harriett, Gabriel, Jacob, Martin and Burd.
He settled on section twenty-two.
Daniel Malone was a native of Tennessee. He settled
first in Four Mile Prairie, Perry county, in 1829. In 1835,
he settled on section 11, Randolph county, now the David
Brown property. He married Mary G , daughter of Samuel
Brown, now Mrs. Holloman of Wine Hill precinct. J. M.
Malone of Steelesville, was born in Perry county, and came
to Randolph in 1833. David Brown, an enterprising
fanner, mine owner and grain dealer of Percy, is the son
of Mr. Brown, an early pioneer living in'Sparta precinct,
and was born in the county in 1828. Among the earlier
arrivals in the county now living in the precinct, are G. W.
Suesberry, a merchant of Steelesville, who was born in
Kentucky, and came to the county in 1838 ; Robert Mor-
rison, a farmer of section two, a native of Ireland, who
came in 1840 ; Sarah Jay, a native of Ohio, who is en-
gaged in farming on section eighteen, and who came to the
county in 1838, and Rev. H. S. Gordon, of section ten, a
native of Pennsylvania, who came here from Missouri in
1838. The first school-house in the precinct was built of
424A
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«ia..<:;,aJ*»^'5JS-J5i=»*ij^l»_-'SSJ»"iK»5r=;5<3;E.
SOUTHERN ILLINOIS P£NIT£NTIARY,CHESTER,ILLlHOIS;SITUAJED NEAR MOUIH Of KASKASiilA RIVLH OH BAHKOf MiSSlSSIPP\.
HOTEL, STORE AND RESIOlNCE OF ^^S. GRIFF IN, DEALER IN GEN ERAL MERCHANDIS E &C.
LIVERY IN CONNECTION iVITH HOTCLjSITUATEO AT THE JUNCTION OF THE Sn&CJND W.C.t^W.R.R^ PERCY ILL.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
425
round logs as early as 1820, and called Jones. It stood on
the N. E. i of the N. W. } of section seventeen. The seats
were made of round poles and the desks of puncheons.
Here began, as early as 1831, the Union Sabbath-school,
still in existence. What was known as the Georgetown
school-house, was a hewed log building put up at a later
day. It was used as a free for-all meeting-house, and was
the parent of the first churches in the precinct. An early
schoolmaster was Benjamin Wham, an eastern man and an
excellent teacher. Steele's cemetery is the oldest burial
place in the precinct. The Bowerman, Short and Jones
graveyards were of an early date. The marriage of William
Robbison and a daughter of Jacob Bowerman, was a very
early marriage, and probably the first in the precinct.
Squire Durett Oliver was an early justice of the peace. Eli
Short had a five acre apple orchard set out as early as ]8'2"i-
A distillery for making apple brandy, was established in
1834 or '35. The blockhouse in which the neighborhood
took refuge from the Kickapoos during the Indian troubles,
was built in 1812 and stood within the present corporate
limits of Steelesville, on the Shawneetown road, about a
quarter of a mile east of the west boundary line of section
sixteen. An old well now marks its site. During an entire
season the people lived in this blockhouse, never leaving to
go far away without their guns. We subjoin a few of the
early land entries :
September 30th, 1841, John Steele entered S. i section 28,
320 acres ; same date, James White entered the W. i sec-
tion 17, 320 acres; January 20th, 1817, Jacob Bowerman,
entered N. E. } section 5, 175i"3 acres ; November 3d, 1817,
Richard Robinson entered W. } of N. W. i section 6
931% acres April 29th, 1815.
VILLAGE OF STEELESVILLE.
In 1810 George Steele located where the village now
stands, and made a small farm. In 1825 he laid the foun"
dation of the town, by erecting a mill. It was the first
mill in the precinct, and was a very rude affair. The
power was supplied by the weight of oxen on an in-
clined wheel. The roof was formed by hooking clap-boards
through which wooden pins had been driven over the lathes.
It had one set of burrs, and wheat was ground one day in
the week, and corn the balance. It was widely known and
largely patronized till 1842, when it was abandoned, and
superseded by another built near its site. In 1827 Col.
Gabriel Jones opened a store, and sold the first goods. The
post-office, called Steele's Mills, was established, with Mr.
Jones as postmaster, in the same year. The village was origi-
nally called Georgetown, which name the older portion of
the town yet popularly bears. The newer portion is famil-
iarly called Alma. The name was changed to Steelesville
by act of the Legislature. The village was laid out by Mr.
Steele, and surveyed and platted February 16, 1830, by
James Thompson, county surveyor, and the plat recorded in
the office of the Circuit Clerk August 5, of the same year.
Town lots were offered for sale, and Capt. Rogers, Col. Jones,
Dr. Ashby Jones, Robert Jones, and Tanner Briggs, were
among the purchasers. In 1838-9 Mr. Steele built a brick
54
dwelling, the first of the kind in the precinct. The first
church in the precinct was organized here in 1834, by Rev.
Eli Short. After some years the organization was abandoned.
The first permanent church organization was established by
Rev. J. B. Aicott, a Baptist minister. In 1848 the congre-
gation built a frame church-house, the first one erected in
the precinct. In 1859 the town had a flouring mill, a saw
mill, four dry goods' stores, one wagon shop, one cooper shop,
one blacksmith shop, one tailor shop, one hotel, and two
physicians. The growth of the town has not been rapid, but
has been of a substantial character. The population census
of 1880, was four hundred and forty. There are five
churches. The German Methodist, a frame structure, was
built in 1863 or '64. The Methodist, a brick building, was
completed in 1871, at a cost of about S'2,000. The Presby-
terians built a brick church in 1875, at a cost of 85,500. St.
Mark's Evangelical Lutheran, was erected in 1879, at a cost
of $1,500 The Baptists completed their frame church in
1882. The school-house, erected in 1874, crowns an abrupt
elevation, and is a commodious and ornamental brick, two.
story, four-room, basement building. It cost, including fur-
niture and heating apparatus, the sum of $7,000.
PRESENT BUSINESS.
Alma Flouring Mill was built in 1859 or '60, by S. Parker
and company, at a cost of $1,100. In 1867 it was sold to
Pickles and Guiguon, who, in 1869, parted with it to Robert
Elickiss. In 1870 it was purchased by J. M. Allen, who
owned it till 1876, when it was bought by E. F. Stinde and
company, who are now operating it. Its dimensions are,
main building, 36x44; engine-room, 14x36; office-room,
12x16. Its capacity ranges from one hundred and thirty to
one hundred and sixty barrels a day. It has three run of
burrs, and eight bolting reels, and employs twelve hands.
The cooper shop, attached, finds work for six or eight men.
Alma Woolen Mills, a three-story brick building, was
put up in 1866. at a cost, including machinery, of §18,000,
by Shalberg, Theis & Co., and is owned and operated by J.
II. Thies, who manufactures flannels, blankets, jeans, etc.
Physicians. — C. Davis, Jacob Keller, Martin Laird, H.
G. Armbrewster.
General Merchanti. — G. W. Shrewsberry, Stahlenburg k
Eagle, L. Dudenbostel & Bro.
Grocery Merchants. — Mrs. Elizabeth Elickiss, William
Sake.
Fancy Dry Goods Merchanti. —James and Lewis Edwards
Drugs, Groceries, and General Merchandise. — J. M.
Malone.
Hotel Keepers — Lewis Smith, Dr. C. Davis.
Livery Stable Keeper. — H. Fiene.
Boarding House Keepers. — J. M. Malone, H. Bullinger,
C. Vesper, Mrs A. Harris.
Butchers — August and Henry Beisner.
Blacksmilhs. — Theodore Dorl, James M. Gray, S. W.
Weibusch.
Wheelwright. — G. J. Knapp, H. Triefte.
Furniture Store. — William Nolte.
Stoves and Tinware- — Edward Gornelson.
42«5
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNIIES, ILLINOIS.
3Iil/itiers and Drrssmaket'i. — Miriam Malone, Emma
Eagle, Mrs. Lucy Davis.
Saddle and Harness Shop. — F. Maaberg, Herman Jostmau.
Barhcr. — \Villiam Lake.
Tailor. — Charles Palmer.
Justices of the Peace. — Daniel Shaeffer, Charles Palmer.
Tllhffe Attorney. — W. W. Edwards.
Grain Dealer. — Charles Dennis.
Lumber Yard. — James Pikett.
Lumber Agent. — L. M. Smith.
Shoemaher & Shocstore. — Henry Luchsinger.
Shoemaker. — Philip Kann.
Painter. — Lewis RufBng.
Carpenters. — William Henry, John Brusch.
Plasterer and Erich Ma.-ion. — William O'Brien.
Cooper. — Henry Schwab.
Saloon Keepers. — Charles Vesper, Henry Bollinger.
Saw J/i//.— William M. Blair.
Brick Yard. — A. Frey.
SOCIETIES.
SteelesviUe Lodge No. 528, /. 0. 0. F., was organized Octo-
ber 14, 1873. It has a present membership of about twenty-
five, and meets in J. M. Malone's hall. It has about $320
in the treasury.
Alma Lodge No. 497, A. F. and A. M., was chartered
October, 18G6. It has a membership of fifty-two, and meets
in Masonic Hall. Its finances are in goed shape.
Banner Council R. T. T No. 54, was organized May 16,
1880. Its membersliip numbers thirteen.
The Randolph county Historical and Library Association,
was chartered by the State Legislature, in 1866. It has a
membership of about twenty-five, and owns about two hun-
dred volumes .
The town of Percy was laid out by the Cairo and St-
Louis Railroad, on the S. E. } of section 11, and platted
and surveyed by R. W. Clark, Railroad Surveyor. The
plat was recorded in the office of the Circuit Clerk, July 3,
1863. The land was donated to the company by John T.
Short, reserving alternate lots. The place is characterized
by life and activity, and is in the midst of a fine agricultural
country. The trains on the Cairo and St Louis, and
Wabash, Chester and Western Railroad, stop for meals at
the popular hotel of Mr. Griffin, who also runs a general
store. The physician of the place, is R. W. Steele. Drugs
and groceries are sold by William Moulic, who is also the
postmaster. David Brown deals in grain. James Higgins
runs a hotel, and Francis Harris the saw mill.
BIOGRAPHIES
Rev. H. S. GORDON.
There are few citizens in Randolph county more deserv-
ing of honorable mention in a work of this character than
Rev. Henry S. Gordon. He was born in Franklin county
Pa., June 19th, 1816. When four years of age, his parents
(George and Nancy Gordon) came west and located in St.
Louis county, Missouri, where the family resided until 1838,
then moving to Randolph county, Illinois, settled on a farm
near Georgetown.
Mr. Gordon attended the common schools near his home
in Missouri, and in 1841 entered Shurtleff College at Upper
Alton, and, upon completing his course of study, was or-
dained a minister of the Baptist Church. Ten years later a
difficulty arose between Rev. Gordon and his congregation
regarding communion, he, believing in free communion,
was excommunicated. Immediately afterward he organized
a Freewill Baptist Church, in accordance with his own
views, and has been the pastor of the society ever since.
In 1834 he was united in marriage to Miss Rebecca
Young, by whom four children were born. She died in
1848, and the following year he married Mrs. Nancy Hill,
and five children have been born. Rev. Gordon has always
been engaged in the pursuit of farming, reared a large and
intelligent family, and is one of the useful and influential
men of the county, evincing an interest in all enterprises that
tend to improve both the property and morals of the com-
munity.
Rev. GEORGE A. GORDON
Is the son of Rev. Henry S. and Rebecca Gordon. He was
born in the city of Alton, Illinois, April 14, 1842, and when
at the age of six months, his parents moved to Randolph
county and settled on a farm in section 11, near the present
village of Percy. His early years were spent on the farm
with his parents, and attending the schools of the neighbor-
hood, subsequently attending the mathematical and classical
Institution at , where he completed his education,
and for some time afterward employed his time in teaching
school and farming. In 1860 he married Miss Harriet Glore,
daughter of Jeptha and Margaret Glore ; she is a native
of Randolph county, III., born near Shiloh Hill, in 1846.
In 1872 he embarked in the drug business in Percy,
where he continued for three years, then removing to
Campbell Hill in Jackson county, Illinois ; here he con-
tinued engaged in a very successful mercantile business.
In August, 1868, he was ordained minister of the Free-will
Baptist church. In 1865 he made a six months' tour of
Europe, visiting many places of interest, and acquiring a
store of useful information.
While Rev. and Mrs. Gordon have not been blessed with
ofl^spring, their house has ever been an asylum to poor and
unfortunate orphans, who there receive kind and true
Christian benevolence. Few have done more for sufl^ering
humanity than they, and none are more honored and re-
spected in the community.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
42'
No more industrious, earnest people ; no more loyal, pa-
triotic citizens come to our American shores from foreign
lauds, than those who recognize Germany as their father-
land. Thousands of their number have here found welcome
— a welcome heartily reciprocated upon their part, and
which they most keenly appreciate.
Kandolph couuty has within her boundaries a goodlv
number of German people, many of whom are recognized
leaders in different lines of business or in public capacity-
None are deserving of more honorable mention than the
present affable and capable county clerk, Louis Dudenbostel.
He was born in Germany March 29, l.s:3(i. In his native
land he acquired a fair education. In 1800 he came to this
country, locating first in the city of Chester, Randolph
county, Illinois, where he attended the common schools, and
acquired the English language sufficiently for the transac-
tion of business. He opened a general store, which he kept
successfully for a period of three years, aud then sold his
property, and located in Evansville in the same county.
He remained at this place, in the same business, for a like
period of time, when he parted with his stock of merchan-
dise, and engaged in the sale of farming implements for a
short time. January 1, 1870, he received the appointment
of deputy county clerk under Hon. John K. Shannon, and
remained in that position during the unexpired term of that
official. He received a similar appointment at the hands of
John T. McBride after his election to the office of county
clerk, and continued to perform its duties until the summer
of 1875, when he moved to Steelesville, and again engaged
in the general mercantile business, which he has successfully
carried on to the present time. In 1877 he was the nominee
of the Democratic party for county clerk, but was defeated
at the election by a small vote. In the fall of 1882 he again
became a candidate for this office, and was this time success-
ful, being elected by a handsome majority.
April 2."), 1870, Mr. Dudenbostel was married to Miss
Mary C. Knapp, daughter of John J. and Elizabeth Kuapp.
Mrs. Dudenbostel was born in Chester in 184II. Five chil-
dren have been born to them, viz. Elizabeth, Edmond, Na-
omi, .\lma, who died in infancy, and Louis. Jlr. Duden-
bostel is a democrat of the Jeffersouian type. He has always
been held in high esteem by the community in which he has
lived, as a moral and useful citizen, aud has many warm
aud confidential friends, all of whom he is proud to honor.
In his management of the affairs of the count)' clerk's office
he is making hosts of friends, and is proving his genuine
worth in the position. Affable and courteous in his demea-
nor, correct aud accurate in his clerical work, he is being
recognized, even by those whose political affiliations lead
them to cast their ballots for his opponent, as being the
" right man in the right place."
428
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
JAMES PICKETT.
Mr. Pickett was born in Kenton county, Ky., July 22,1833.
When he was about eight years old he moved with his pa-
rents to Illinois, and settled in Randolph county, where his
father, William Pickett, in March, 1840, purchased land
and began farming, continuing there until his death. James
remained at home and labored for his father until August,
1852, when he engaged with H. C Cole, of Chester, as clerk
and book-keeper in his flouring mill. This position he re-
tained until 1857, when he opened a general store at Shiloh
Hill, and continued there for a period of twelve years, and
then engaged in the lumber business at Steelesville, where
he has since remained. February 17, 1863, he married Miss
Martha Ann, daughter of William and Rachel Jay, who
immigrated from South Carolina to the territory of Illinois
at a very early day. Mrs. Pickett was born in Randolph
county in 1831, and received her education at the common
schools. At the age of nineteen Mr. Pickett entered col-
lege at Lebanon, Illinois, where he remained during the
Freshman and Sophomore years. He has been esteemed as
one of the live and useful citizens of the county in which he
has lived, and has done his full share to improve and build
up Steelesville, where he is blessed with many warm friends.
JAMES M. MALONE,
A NATIVE of Perry county, Illinois, was born April 3, 1833.
Soon after this date his parents moved to Randolph county
and settled in section eleven, where the village of Percy now
stands. When he was eight years old his father died, and
his mother subsequently married E. Holloman. James re-
mained on the farm with his mother and attended the com-
mon schools till the age of twenty-one, when he embarked in
business for himself For several years he clerked in stores,
taughtschool, became a partner in the flouring mill at Steeles-
ville, now owned by E. F. Stinde & Co., and for fourteen
years engaged ih merchandising. In the late conflict be-
tween the States he volunteered and was elected orderly ser-
geant of Co. F one hundred and fifty-fourth Illinois Infantry,
and was mustered out at the close of his term of service as
First Lieutenant. In 1870 he was appointed Postmaster of
Steelesville, which position he still holds.
On the 19th of April, 1S55, he was married to Miss
Mary S. Johnson. By this union there are seven living, in-
telligent children, viz. : Frank, Willis, James, Clarence,
Cora, Belle and Grace. In religion Mr. and Mrs. Malone
are both firm believers in the Presbyterian church. Mr.
Malone is elder of his church and superintendent of the
Sunday School. In politics he has been a Republican since
1860. Perhaps there are few if any citizens in the community
that have done more to improve the morals and support
good society than Mr. and Mrs. Malone ; they are both
blessed with many warm friends, and are held in high
esteem by all good citizens of their acquaintance.
JOHN H. THIES
Was born in Germany, January 10th, 1824, where he
received his early education, and worked at farming until
he was about nineteen years old, when he joined the eleventh
regiment of cavalry, in the regular army of Prussia, and
served for three years, being honorably discharged in March,
1849. Soon afterward he emigrated to the United States,
landing at New Orleans, where he remained but a few days,
taking passage to St. Louis, Mo., where he immediately
engaged as a sutler, in which he continued till 1856. He
married Miss H. F. Stalberg in 1856, and immediately
afterward moved to Randolph county, Illinois, and pur-
chased land, where he was successfully engaged in farming
pursuits until 1866. Desirous of changing his avocation in
life, he bought land in Steelesville, and with his two brothers-
in-law, Charles and William Stalberg, built a large and
convenient building, and commenced the manufacturing of
woolen goods in first-class grades and styles, in which capa-
city they cooperated until 1879, when Mr. Thies bought the
interest of his partner, and has successfully carried on the
business ever since.
Mr. and Mrs. Thies are now the parents of six intelligent
children, two sons and four daughters. They are both firm
believers in the Christian religion, and consistent members
of the M. E. church. Mr. Thies has frequently been called
upon by his fellow-citizens to accept many important offices
of his precinct, in which he has in all instances rendered
full satisfaction to his constituents and credit to himself
He has always been held in high estimation for his true
merits and good citizenship. He is always willing to aid
and support all moral and useful enterprises that have a
tendency to develop and improve the country.
GRAND COTE
PERRY COUNTY.
ITUATED in the extreme northwestern
portion of the county, lies Grand Cote
Frecinct. It is bounded on the north by
Washington county, on the east by
Beaueoup, on the south by Cutler, and
on the west by Randolph county. Much
1^ (H of the surface, which is level, was for-
y^^i> merly covered with timber. The only
^v'' prairie is that beariog the same name
as the precinct. Much of the timber remains undisturbed.
The Cairo Short Line Railroad enters at section -iB, pa.ssing
through the precinct in a northwesterly direction, and
passes out at section 7. This precinct has no water-courses.
It comprises all of congressional town four south, range four,
and two tiers of sections in the northern part of town five,
range four. The soil is fertile and productive. Agriculture
is the principal occupation of its inhabitants. The population,
according to the census of 1880, was nine hundred and forty-
one.
Grand Cote — from the French — meaning Beautiful
Prairie, was first settled by Thomas Swanwick, who came
from Chester, England, and located on the northwest quarter,
and the east half of the southwest quarter of Sec. 11, T. 4,
R. 4, which he had entered February 13, 1818. The lands first
settled by Thomas Swanwick are now occupied by J. J. Swan-
wick, his son, who is past the meridian of life, a most estim-
able and respected citizen. With Thomas Swanwick came
James McMurdo to the western county. The second settler
in Grand Cote was Wm. P. Elliott, from the State of
Georgia. He located on section 20, T. 4, R. 4, about the
year 1820. He brought his family in the spring of 1821.
Next came Jonathan Petit in the spring of 1825, from Ran-
dolph county, from what was then known as the "Irish
Settlement," and located on section 30, T. 4, R. 4. In the
ensuing fall Petit sold out his claim to one Absalom Wilson,
a native of Washington county, Virginia, who did not move
upon the lands until 1840. George Cherry, of the Chester
District, South Carolina, arrived the same year, 1825. and
located on section 5. He resided there until his death in
March, 1867. In the year 1828, James Kirkpatrick, a native
of South Carolina, settled on section 9, on lands now occupied
by B. Semple. So far as we are able to learn, these men
who came to Grand Cote were its original pioneers. From
some cause, between the years 1829-1833, no additions
were made to this little band of bold and venturesome
pioneers, who formed the nucleus, in their wild and almost
unbroken lands, of what is now one of the most prosperous
and refined farming communities in the little county. John
White is a native of South Carolina. He came to the
county in 1832, and now resides in section 6. Robert H.
Allen, who lives in section 25, was born in Perry county in
1834. W. M Adair, a merchant of Swanwick, was boru in
Illinois, and came to the county in 1837. Hugh Cooper of
Section 9, T. 5, R. 4, was born in South Carolina, and
located in Perry county in 1831. About the year 1835, a
new and full tide of immigration began to pour into this
settlement. Among the first was Alexander Craig, a native
of Ireland, who, on his way to his western home, had stopped
in South Carolina and Kentucky. He located, in 1835, on
section 25, the present Craig's station on Cairo Short Line
Railroad, being on the lands originally settled by him. In
1834, William Rainey came out from St. Clair county and
settled on section 24. In 1836, he sold his farm to Solomon
Maxwell, from Bedford county, Tennessee, the latter re-
maining upon it until his death. Bmjamin Ragland was
the eighth of the settlers in 1835. He came from Kentucky
and settled on section 24. In 1836, he sold his farm to John
McMillen, and again settled on section 14 of the same town-
ship. Mr. McMillen in turn sold his farm in December,
1838, to Joel Rushing, for one hundred and twenty dollars.
In the year 1836, Henry H. Elliott, son of W. P. Elliott,
and father of the Rev. J. C. Elliott, settled on section 13,
on the farm now occupied by H. H Rice. About the same
year John Hughey settled on section 20, and Newton Frank-
lin on section 14.
From this time the settlers flowed into the precinct very
rapidly, among whom we might mention the Craigs, Justices
and others, and the country was filled up almost as by
magic.
Between the years 1822 and 1840 the dry goods and gro-
ceries were most generally purchased from R. G. Shuman,
of the then little town of Columbus, Randolph county,
better known now as Sparta, Mr. Shuman carrying on to
considerable extent the grain trade, purchasing corn at
Chester and shipping to New Orleans. In the year 1845
the first dry goods store was opened in this precinct by J.
C. Steele, near where Swanwick station is now located. He
also kept the first post-office in the precinct. In 1846 upon
the breaking out of the Mexican war, he turned the store
and post-oflice over to one, Samuel Hughey, and went into
the army. John M. Woodside afterward kept the store and
post-ofiice at the same place. In 1840 Grand Cote had a
shoemaker named Isaac Fowler.
In the vears 1822-'23 William P. Elliott built the first
429
430
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
band or tug grist mill on the farm now owned by T. S.
Elliott, Esq. In 1834 he replaced it by a draft mill with cog-
wheel attachment. The burrs were made from granite bould-
ers, stray waifs as it were, which were occasionally found
scattered over our prairies in those early days. Both of
these mills were the work of Mr. Elliott, and were very gen-
erally patronized by the neighbors for a distance of ten or
fifteen miles around. The only record furnished us of the
earliest preaching in that precinct, was by the Rev. Robert
Moore, of the old Regular Baptist tenets, at the house of
Solomon Maxwell, about the year 1841. The first school
taught in Grand Cote precinct was in 1832, by James Holli-
day, in a little log cabin located on the S. E. i of section 30,
the price of tuition being $2 per scholar. The next school
was kept by John Fulton in his kitchen on S. E. i of section
31, about the years 1836 or 1837. His schedule was the
first to draw public moneys on that side of the county.
David Baldridge was the county school commissioner at the
time. Alexander Skelly was next in the order of school teachers
in that precinct. He taught in a little log cabin built for a
residence on section 13, about the year 1841 ; tuition $2 per
quarter.
With this concludes our early history of Grand Cote
prairie. To the Rev. J. C. Elliott are we indebted for most
of the information concerning this precinct. The first land
entries in this precinct, in the order of their dates, were as
"fbllows : January 18, 1819, Thomas Swanwick entered the E.
i of the N. E. i ; and the S. E. } of section ten in town
four, range four ; May 27, 1819, James Parker, the N. W.
i of section 29, and the S. W. i of section 20; June 7, 1821,
Alexander Campbell, the W. * of the S. \V. } of section 32 ;
the N. E. i of the S. E. i and the S. E. i of the S. K i of
section 31, all in town four south, range four.
SWANWICK.
! This little village was laid out by William Moore and
surveyed and platted by D. C. Benson, deputy county sur-
veyor. May 27, 1871. Its location is the S. E. of the N. E.
of section 21, township 4, range 4. It is a station on the
; Cairo Short Line Railroad. The present business of the
village is as follows : Physician, W. H. Ferguson ; general
merchants, Harmon & Adair, William Gray; postmaster,
William Gray; blacksmith, James Luna; carpenter, A.
Shockency ; grain dealers, W. Sokup ; carriage maker, D. J.
Woodside.
CRAU'.
This hamlet is a station on the Cairo Short Line Railroad,
and issituatedon theeasthalf ofSec. 2.5, township 4, range 4,
and on the boundary between Grand Cote and Pinckney-
ville. It was laid out by William Craig and surveyed and
platted by William Golightly, county surveyor, October 23,
1871. The postmaster is J. Allen. A general store is kept
by W. L. Pennoyer.
■^"^^es^^^s^^-
BIOGRAPHIES.
REV. JAMES C. ELLIOTT.
The history of Perry and Randolph counties would be
incomplete without a sketch of the Elliott family. They are
the descendants of English and Scotch- Irish ancestry. Mem-
bers of the family came to America prior to the Revolution-
ary War. William Preston Elliott, th£ grandfather of
James C. was a native of Virginia, and one of seven
brothers. He married in Virginia, and a few years later
moved to Georgia. In 1814 he came to Illinois and settled
in the American Bottom, in the Goshen settlement. Ague
and fever prevailed to a considerable extent then, and be-
lieving that the country was unhealthy, returned to Georgia.
But the rich, fertile and productive lands of Illinois had
left their impression, and the old pioneer longed for the
" Flesh Pots " of Illinois. He accordingly returned in 1818,
and settled in Randolph county west of Sparta, on what is
known as " Temple Hill," and there built a house which
was the first erected there. He remained there until the
spring of 1821, when he removed to the south side of Grand
Cote prairie about two and a half miles south of Coulterville,
where he opened a farm, and there continued the peaceful
avocation of a farmer until his death, which occurred in 1840.
He married Margaret Murdock of Virginia. She survived
her husband a few years and died in 1843. By that union
I there were eleven children, who grew to maturity. Oue of
her sons, the father of the subject of this sketch, was named
Henry Hodge Elliott. He was born in Virginia, February
18, 1801, and was but thirteen years of age when the family
first settled in the American Bottom. He returned to Georgia
with his father, and came back with the family to Illinois
the second time, and here grew to manhood, followed farm-
ing and remained in the precinct until his death, which
took place March 4th, 1872. He married Miss Margaret,
daughter of James and Elizabeth (McBride) Couch. Her
mother was of Scotch-Irish ancestry, born in the north of
Ireland, and was but eight years of age when her parents
landed in Charleston, South Carolina. Margaret (Couch)
EUiott was born August 9th, 1810, and departed this life
August 7th, 1847. By the union of Henry H. and Mar-
garet Elliott there were seven children, two sons and five
daughters. William P., one of the sons, was born July
31st, 1836, and died in Andersonville prison in September
1864, in his twenty-ninth year. He enlisted in Co. "C" of
the 30th Regiment Illinois Volunteer Infantry. He was
taken prisoner before Atlanta July 22d, 1864, sent to
Andersonville prison, and there died as did thousands of
I others from exposure, neglect and lack of sufiicient to eat.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
431
Catharine was the eldest daughter. She was born July 24th,
1847, and died in her sixteenth year. Jane was the wife of
William Gallegly. She died April 24th, 1873, in her
fortieth year. She left five children. Frances Elizabeth
was the wife of Joseph Lively. She died without issue April
10th, 1870, in her thirty-first year. Mary W., wife of John
W. Lively, died March 14th, 1870, iu her thirty-fifth year,
leaving four children. Rachael C died February 12th,
1870, in her twenty-fifth year. James Couch Elliott, the
subject of this sketch, is the eldest of the family and the
only survivor. He was born in Randolph county, Illinois,
near Sparta, January 6th, 1830. He was reared on the
farm, and acquired his primary education in the subscrip-
tion schools of his neighborhood. From fifteen to twenty-
one he hired out, and his wages went to the support of the
family only retaining enough to clothe himself. He attended
one terra at the Academy in Sparta, and then [aught school
for several terras. At the age of twentv he entered the
State University at Bloomington, Indiana, and graduated
from that institution. He had resolved to enter the min-
istry of the United Presbyterian Church, and with that
idea in view he spent three terms of seven months
each in the Theological Seminary at Jlonmouth, Illinois.
He was licensed to preach May 7th, 1862, and regularly
ordained a minister of the church Oct. 7th, 1863. In the
latter year he went to Wyoming in Iowa county, Wisconsin,
apd was the "Supply " for six months, after which he be-
came the pastor of the Wyoming and Blue Mound United
Presbyterian Congregations, and remained in charge until
in February, 1868. In July of the same year he was called
to the pastorate of the Bethel Congregation in Grand Cote,
Perry county, and has remained iu charge up to the jiresent,
a period of nearly fifteen years. On the 14th of April, ]8t)4,
he was united in marriage to Miss Lydia A. Moraland of
Randolph county, Illinois. She was the daughter of James
and Margaret Moreland. She died December 7th, 1873,
leaving one son, named William Zwingli Elliott, now in
attendance at the Academy in Coulterville, Illinois.
On the 10th of October 1876, he married Miss Maggie,
daughter of Rev. James M. and Nancy (McClanahan) Hen-
derson, of Oakdale, Washington county, Illinois. Mrs.
Elliott was born near Madison City, Indiana. Politically,
Mr. Elliott votes the Republican ticket, but takes no farther
interest than exercising the right and duty of every Ameri-
can citizen by casting his ballot, lie is very much in favor
of prohibition, and regards the licensing of saloons, an offense
against religion, good morals and the best interest of society.
CAPTAIN WILIAM M. ADAIR
Was born in Randolph county, January 0, 1837. The
family is of Scotch-Irish ancestry. His grandfather came
to America from the north of Ireland, and settled in South
Carolina, and there his son William was born in 1781. The
latter grew to manhood, and wasasoldier in the war of 1812,
under Gen. Jackson. Soon after that war he came north to
Illinois, and settled in Perry county, on " Six Mile Prairie ;"
subsequently removed to Randolph county to a place eight
miles east of Kaskaskia, on the Shawneetown road. He
died in Perry county while back here looking after the im-
provement of land that he had entered, the date of which
was in 1856. He was also a soldier in the war of 1831-32,
with Black Hawk, and was major of the regiment. He was
appcjinted Receiver of the Land office, a few years before his
death, and was in that position when he died. Soon after
he first came to Perry county, he married the daughter of
James Brown. She died, leaving two children, one of whom
is yet living. He afterwards married Mrs. Rebecca Lacey,
widow of John Lacey. Her maiden name was Taggart.
She was of Irish parentage, and born in South Carolina.
She died in 1877, aged eighty-two years. By this raarriage
there were two children, twins, sou and daughter. The
daughter is the wife of Frank Moore, a resident of Randolph
county. William Miles Adair, the son, was reared upon
the farm ; received a fiiir English education, and remained
at home until the breaking out of the late war, when he en-
listed for three years in company "C," of the 30th regiment
Illinois Volunteer Infantry. On the organization of the
company he was elected Orderly Sergeant. The regiment
was brigaded at Cairo, and formed a part of the 3d Brigade,
3d Division of the 17th Array Corps, Gen. McPherson com-
manding. The regiment received its first baptism of fire at
the battle of Belmont, and subse([uently participated in the
capture of Forts Donaldson and Henry, siege of Corinth ;
marched to Jackson ; was in the battle of Brittain's Lane, in
Tennessee, then toMemphisand to Vicksburg; took part in the
siege and capture, and in the meantime was in the battle of
Champion Hills. While at Vicksburg the 30th regiment
veteranized, then came home on a furlough ; returned and
was in the Atlanta campaign, and in the fight before Atlanta,
on the 22d of July, 1864, Mr. Adair was taken prisoner, and
was held uutil the 1st of September, of the same year, when
under an arrangement between the Generals of the I'nion
and Rebel armies, he and others that were captured were
exchanged. He joined Sherman's forces, and then went
with him in his memorable march to the sea, up through the
Caroliuas and to Washington, where he participated in the
Grand Review. The company was mustered out at Somer-
ville, and finally discharged at Springfield, July 17, 1865,
having been in the service a few days lacking four years.
He enlisted August 20, 1861. He entered as a private ; was
elected Orderly Sergeant, commissioned 2d Lieutenant, Janu-
ary 28, 1862; 1st Lieutenant, May 16, 186.), and commis-
sioned Captain of the Company, August 20, 1S(;4. Captain
Adair was in every battle and skirmish in which his company
and regiment participated, except those occurring when he
was a prisoner, which was only a few weeks. After the
war he returned to Randolph county, and engaged in farm-
ing. In 1872 he came to Perry county, and he continued
in same avocation up to 1880, when he came to the village
of Swanwick, and engaged in mercantile business, in which
he still continues. He married Miss Parthena, daughter of
John and Florinda (Uhles) Harmon She was born in
Randolph county, September 11, 1844, and died March 10,
1882, leaving no children. Capt. Adair is a member of the
United Presbyterian church. Politically he has always
432
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
since casting his first vote, been a Democrat. This in brief
is an outline history of Capt. William M. Adair. He was
a gallant and brave soldier, and old settler, and an
and upright citizen.
SOUTH WESTERN
PERRY COUNTY.
• HIS precinct is situated in the southwes-
tern corner of the county. It is bounded
ou the north by Cutler, on the east by
Pinckueyville, on the south by Jackson
county, and on the west by Randolph
county. Pipestone creek furnishes
ample drainage and water supply. The
surface is undulating and the soil fertile.
The St. Louis and Cairo Railroad crosses
the southwest corner of this precinrst.
By the last census, in 1880, the precinct had a population
of one thousand and eighty-nine.
Among the first settlers, as early as 1817, were Simon
Williard, who located on section two, town six south, range
four, where he entered, January 19th, 1819, 504.60 acres of
land. James Craine settled on the northeast quarter of
section thirteen, of the same town and range; and became
the owner of the tract of one hundred and sixty acres by en-
tering the same at the land office in Kaskaskia, May 14th,
1818. Benjamin Brown was also one of the settlers of this
precinct in 1817. We find him making his home on the
west half of the southeast quarter of section eleven, town
six south, range four west, which he entered, January 14th,
1819. Richard Green, Robert Johnson, Robert Crow, with
their families, were also living in this locality at the same
time, and together with William H. Threlkel, Robert Gilli-
han, Jacob Short and John Stuart were leading characters
in the early history of the county. They were natives of
New York, Kentucky and Tennessee. Stephen Kelly was
also an early pioneer. Alexander A. Watkins, a farmer and
stock raiser, who resides in section 19, township 6, range 3,
is a native of Tennessee, and came to the county in 1839.
The first dry goods, groceries etc., shoes, plows, and
wagons were bought of Lyborger and Reed, at Kaskaskia,
previous to 1827. Much of the trading was done with Col.
Jones, of Georgetown, Randolph county, between 1827 and
1840. The first dry goods and grocery store in this precinct
was kept in 1827 by a man named Jacob Short. The first
blacksmith shop was kept by John McClure, in 1839.
There was a wagon shop in 18.50, kept by Gadbuy. John
McClure had the first plow shop in the precinct. The first
band grist mill was built here by a man named Willard, in
1819. It did pretty good work for a mill of its kind, for a
period of nine or ten years. In 1834 a good many of the
settlers had their milling done at Riley's Mill, in Kaskaskia.
They also had milling done at Glide's mill in Georgetown
about 1834. Dickey P. Smith was the first preacher in
the county. In 1830 the Methodist Episcopal Church was
organized in this precinct, consisting of ten members. The
name of the minister who organized tbe church was French.
They held their meetings in a small school-house, where
Denmark now stands. In 1835 the Methodist Episcopal
denomination built their first church near Denmark. The
first Sabbath-school was held in this precinct in 1859, with
twenty-eight scholars ; it was the work of the Associate
Reformed Presbyterians. Robert Crow and Green Derring-
ton were teachers. The first school taught in this precinct
was in 1825, by a man named Robert Clark, near the present
residence of Francis Smith. The first school-house was
built in 1825, out of round logs. Weight poles were used
to hold the roof on. The books used were the American
Preceptor, English Reader, and Columbian Orator. The
school lasted from three to six months. Tuition rated from
S2.00 to S2.50 per quarter. The writing paper was coarse,
unruled, and goose-quill pens and maple bark ink were used.
Land entries of South Western precinct : April 25th,
1815, William Mcintosh entered three hundred and twenty
acres in the N. i of section 3. February 5th, 1818, Jona-
than Bowerman entered the E. * of the N. E. i of section 6,
seventy-nine and twenty-hundredths acres. August 12th,
1818, the same entered the E. } of N. W. i of section 6,
eighty-seven and sixty-four hundredths acres.
DENMARK.
The little hamlet of Denmark, is situated in the western
part of South Western precinct, the nearest railroad station
being Cutler, some five miles distant. The town was laid
out by John D. Rees, ou the northwest quarter of the north-
west quarter of section twenty-four, in town six south, range
four west, and was surveyed and platted by Robert Steele,
county surveyor, on tbe first day of April, 1S60. It formerly
bore the euphonious name of " Jack Town."
The first house was built by John D. Rees, whose family,
and those of several Canadian-French, were the first to settle
in that section. The house was a small frame. John D.
Rees opened the first store, and the post-office was kept by
Brown. There are two handsome church buildings in the
town, belonging respectively, to the Presbyterian and Bap-
tist denominations. Also a neat school-house.
PRESENT BUSINESS.
Postmistress. — Mary Rees. General Store. — William Boau.
TFof/o/iniaA-er.— James Eeaton. Blacksmith. — J. L. Tessier.
Dressmaker — Mary Rees.
43 2A
DU QUOIN
PERRY COUNTY.
r (^I'OIN precinct lies in the southeast-
ern part of Perry county, bounded on the
north by Tamaroa, east by Paradise pre-
cinct and Franiilin county, south by
Jackson county and west by Pinckney-
ville. The surface is mostly rolling prai-
rie, excepting the southern and western
portions, where it is somewhat broken.
Along Beaucoup and Little Beaucoup creeks, there is quite
a heavy belt of timber, comprising the various species that
are usually found in this latitude. The s-oil is rich and pro-
ductive, wheat being the principal crop, although a consi-
derable quantity of corn is annually raised. The lands are
well drained by Little Muddy river, Rees's and Bcauc£)up
creeks and their numerous tributaries. Underlying the
whole surftice of this precinct, there is an almost ine.xhausti-
ble body of coal, which, in the vicinity of the railroads, is
extensively mined, and gives employment to a great num-
ber of men, and brings a large sum of money among the
people. This interest was not developed until after the
advent of railroads, in 1854, when the Illinois Central was
completed through this county. Prior to the building of the
railroads the county was thinly populated, and farming was
the only occupation of the inhabitants except a few of
the mechanical trades and merchandising at the old town
of Du Quoin, about four miles southeast of the present city
of that name. The building of this road, at that early day,
was the beginning of a new era in Illinois. All along its
line sprang into existenc, thriving towns and villages, and
Du Quoin, now the metropolis of Perry county, was one of
their number. This road enters the precinct on the north,
at the line between sections 19 and 20 of township 5 S.,
range 1 W., and passes in a southern direction, leaving the
precinct on section 32. " The Cairo Short Line " traverses
the county in a southeasterly course across the precinct,
through the city of Du Quoin. These roads with their con-
nections with the various main lines and larger cities of the
west, gives excellent facilities for the shipment of the pro-
ducts and manufactures.
The following are a few of the earliest land entries, which
will show the names of a number of the early settlers. In
township 6 S., range 1 W., Dec. 5, 1814, Jerrold Jackson
entered the S. \V. quarter of section 35, IGO acres ; Feb. 13,
1817, L. Bebee and J. II. Root, S. W. quarter section 34,
160 acres; April 25, 1815, William Mcintosh, N. W. quar-
ter, section 30, IGO acres; May 7, 1819, John Pyle, W. half
N. W. quarter, section 19, 81 acres; Feb. 2G, 1819, Edward
II. Rees, W. half, N. E. quarter, section 9, 80 acres; Nov.
26, 1828, Jacob Lipe, W. half, N. W. quarter, section 6,
55
77, acres. In 1829 Blackwell Gochar, David H. Mead,
and Thomas Gochar also made entries here in 1829. In
township 6 S. range 2 W , the first entries were made April
25, 1815, by Sebastian C. Lavoche, part of S. \V. quarter,
section 17, 84 acres, and William Mcintosh the whole of
section 18, containing 628 acres. April 23, 1818, Thonia-s
Taylor entered the S. E. quarter of Sec. 25, 160 acres ; Oct.
2, 1818, Elijah Wells, W. half, N. W. quarter, section 23,
80 acres ; Nov. U, 1818, Robert McElvain, E. half of N. E.
quarter of section 23,80 acres. June 25, 1819, Louis Wells
entered the E. half of S E. quarier of section 24, 80 acres.
Du Quoin precinct is by far the most wealthy and popu-
lous in the county. It received it-s name from the town of
Old Du Quoin, it having been named after an Indian chief,
who spelled his name Du Coign, and who, if tradition be
true, boasted that, as the exception of his race, he had never
spilled the blood of a white man. He became converted,
and joined the Catholic Church. He lived a pure life, and
at his death wsis buried by the Catholic Mission of Kas-
kaskia.
If we are correctly informed, Jarrold Jackson, who kept
a toll-bridge on Little Muddy in 181 1, on the road between
Shawneetown and Kaskaskia, was the lir.st white man to
settle in Du (^uoin precinct. Thomas Taylor, a South Caro-
linian, settled in Jackson county in 180:;, and from there
came to Perry county in 1812. Lewis Wells, also from the
State of South Carolina, emigrated to Illinois, stopping in
Jackson county, in 1804. In the same year that Mr. Taylor
came (1812), Wells also moved and settled in the same
vicinity, where he remained until his death in L846, being
then 96 years of age. John Campbell (father of Ji)hn,
Washington, Isaac, Alexander and Charles Campbell), came
from Tennessee in 1812, and settled in the same neighbor-
hood. The above-named are all decea-sed.
Hiram Root and Ephraim Skinner, natives of New York,
arrived and located here in 1810. Mr. Skinner died four
years afterward. Mrs. Root was here when, as she saiil, she
had seen the wolves prowling about the house, and had
chased a bear from her pig-pen with fire. John Pyle came
to the precinct in 1819, and William and Abner Pyle at an
early day, perhaps at the same time. Zachariah Clinton,
Green Durrington, and Micajah Phelps, in 1824, from the
State of Kentucky. Dr. Joseph Brayshav?, from England,
Avery Chapman , and Joshua Davis, who built on the site
of Old Du Quoin, arrived and settled in the precinct about
the same time (1824). Robert McElvain, Rodney Bolin,
(father of John Bolin), located here between 1820 and 1830.
Bolin settled near Old Du (^uoin in 1829, and Mrs Lucy
Bolin, his widow, died here, two or three years ago, at the
433
434
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
advanced age of over ninety years. The Flacks and Bur-
banks were also early settlers. These persons named, who
came to this precinct previous to 1830, may be regarded as
its original pioneer settlers.
Previous to the formation of Perry county in 1827, Kas
kaskia was the nearest trading point, and the nearest store
of any kind was in that city. In those early days the pio-
neers experif need many hardships and inconveniences. They
lived in small cabins, generally about 8x10 feet, constructed
of rough, unhewn logs, with the spaces between them some
limes clinked or daubed with mud. The roof was usually
made of clap-boards, held to their places with knee and
weight-poles ; the chimneys of sticks and clay, while the
end of a log sawed out served as a window, and the floor
was frequently nothing more than mother earth. These
humble abodes of those hardy men and women were oft-
times situated many miles in advance of civilization, in a
wilderness, amid wild beasts and the fiercer red man. The
first settlers paid but little attention to the tilling of the
soil ; a small patch of corn, some vegetables and a few herbs
for medicinal purposes served them. Wild game and honey
were plentiful, aLd they ate principally of this delicious and
wholesome food. They located near the small streams, where
water and fuel could be easily obtained, and many years
elapsed before the prairies were found suitable for culti-
vation.
There was no merchandise of any kind carried on in this
precinct until some time between 1827 and 1830, when Daniel
Dry, opened a small store of general goods in Old Du Quoin.
The county court records show that license was granted him
for that purpose in 1831. David Mead, kept the next store,
and Chester A. Keyes, also had a store up to 1840. John
Williams was the first licensed saloon-keeper in the precinct.
John Campbell, who came in 1829, was a blacksmith, and
erected a shop and began smithing that year at Old Du
Quoin, and was the first of his tradesmen in the precinct.
Mr. Campbell, in connection with Elijah Wells, also began
the manufacture of plows, a very useful and much needed
article. John Fulton, another early mechanic, made the
pioneer wagons. It is said they used the truck wagons
principally, in those days.
Thomas Farrow located in Old Du Quoin in 1831, and was
the first shoemaker.
OLD DU QUOIN,
to which we have frequently referred above, was, at one
time, quite a flourishing village, and for many years the only
one in the precinct. It is situated on the S. I of the N. W.
J of section 26, T. 6. S , R. 1 W. There is no record of the
plat on file at the county seat. It was originally laid out by
Avery Chapman, about 1844, and surveyed and platted by
Amos Webster.
There were churches, school houses, a seminary, and sev-
eral stores and dwellings erected in the village, and it be-
came quite prosperous. After the Illinois Central railroad
had been built, and the present city of Du Quoin laid out,
most of the business men moved up to the new town. Many
of the stores, houses, and residences, were also moved to the
new town, being carried the whole distance upon trucks,
drawn by ox teams. There is now but little remaining. A
store kept by Isaac B. Adams, a post-office, and few resi-
dences, are all that now mark the once thrifty village of Old
Du Quoin.
Mills — Prior to the existence of mills, in this precinct, the
early settlers principally patronized Dillinger's old water
mill, in Jackson county. About 1829 Elijah Wells built a
mill on the west side of Nine Mile prairie, on the old Kas-
kaskia road. It was a very rude affair, its capacity being
fifteen bushels a day, when it was crowded to its utmost. In
1830 Elijah Lane built a horse mill in the same vicinity,
which continued to run for a number of years About the
same time John Reed constructed a mill of the same kind
iu Paradise prairie. Robert Yeann built a tread mill about
a half mile south of Elijah Wells', in 1841, and it continued
in operation for several years.
The first preaching was about 1829, by a man named
Joseph Taylor in a private house. He was of the Univer-
salist faith. There was preaching previous to 1840, by
John Monkey, of the Christian denomination. Dennis
Wells and William Wooley, Methodists, held meetings in
1840, and iu 1841 Josiah Wood, a Presbyterian, commenced
preaching in the precinct. Philip Mulkey, held his early
meetings at Avery Chapman's.
The earliest school taught in this precinct was by a man
named Abraham Brayshaw, about 1830. Soon afterward
a school-house was erected three and a half miles south of
Du Quoin, and a teacher named Binedlo (?) was first to
teach in it. The house was built of round logs, with clap-
board door. A log was cut out of one side to serve as a
window. The chimney extended across the entire end of
the house, and a hole, left in the roof, served for the exit of
smoke. This is said to have been the first house built for
school purposes in the precinct.
Dr. Joseph Brayshaw, above mentioned, was the earliest
physician in the precinct, and we may add the only one in
the entire county for several years. The earliest magistrate
and lawyer, was Sylvester Adams, Oliver Root acting as his
constable. Thus have we briefly sketched the early settle-
ment of the precinct. From 1830, the settlement gradually
increased by a number of new arrivals each succeeding year,
until the building of the Illinois Central railroad, when it
received a large influx of population, and it was not until
after this event that there were any business interests of
importance developed. The precinct, including the city of
Du Quoin and villages, in the census of 1880, contained a
population of 5,550, which has probably increased somewhat
in the past three years.
THE CITY OF DU QUOIN,
as stated elsewhere in this chapter, had its origin with the
construction of the Illinois Central railroad through that
part of the county. It was laid out by the B. R. company,
through I. S. Metcalf their agent, and Chester A. Keyes,
and surveyed and platted September 20, 1853, by William
Richart, county surveyor of Jackson county. The original
site was on the S. W. quarter of section 8, T. 6 S., R 1
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
4:?5
W., of which the S W. quarter of the S. W. quarter
belonged to the I. C. R. R company and the balance to
Keyes. The work of grading the road was commenced in
1852, but it was not completed fjr the passage of trains
through here until the spring of 1854.
The first huildiugs were erected by the railroad company,
being a freight and pivssenger depot, and a boarding-house
for the entertainment of the laborers in the em[)loy of the
company. The boardiug-house was first kept by Edward
N. Smith, for about six months, while his residence was
being erected. Mr. Smith, who is one of Du (Quoin's
prominent and enterprising citizens, is the oldest resident
and merchant in the city. In the same spring, 1854, two
frame storehouses were moved here from old Du Quoin, a
distance of five miles, and one from Jack Pyle's hill, in
which John Johnson kept a small stock of goods. The first
to embark in the mercantile business, was G. S. Smith &
Co., who moved one of the houses above mentioned from
old Du (^uoin, and this firm have been in bu^ines? contin-
ually ever since. At the time of the laying out of the place
there were two log cabins, situated within its limits, one
occupied by Albert Adkins, and the other by B. F. Giiitcau,
a carpenter, who moved into it in the sjiring of 1854.
McCoy Brothers opened a blacksmith shop, and other
mechanics and merchants came during the same year.
Among some of the early business men and residents were,
(•'. A. Keyes, L. C. Blakeslee, Robert Bartley, William
Frizzell, George Y. McClure, Lype & Dry, Dr. G. T. Wall,
J. A. Williams, Benjamin & A. J. Prague, William Combs
and others.
The population had increased so, that on the •28th of July,
1S57, an election was called for the ])urpose of voting on
incorporation. It was carried unanimously, without a dis-
senting vote. The first trustees were 15. Sprague, G. Y.
McClure, G. S Smith, Daymon Thing and (J. C. Ward,
five in nnrnber. Benjamin Sprague was elected police
magistrate.
It has since been incorporated under the general law as a
city, under which government it is now controlled.
Schools were established soon after the laying out of the
place and for the first year or two were taught in rented
buildings, when a frame school building on the site of the
present one was erected. The lots were d. nated by the
original proprietors for that purpose. That building was
used until the present imposing brick structure was erected,
at a cost of tweuty-fnir thousand dollars. It contains eight
class rooms, and employs the same nund)er of instructors.
There is also a colored public school, whi(^h has a neat frame
building, and a catholic parochial school in the city.
The city has been prosperous from the very beginning,
and each year has added to it increased wealth and popula-
tion. It progressed slowly, but steadily, and on a solid
financial foundation. It has had for its citizens, men of
industry and enterprise, who have united their tfn)rts in
building up a city, that to-day ranks among the first in
southern Illinois. The streets, the principal of wliich are
Main and Washington, are one hundred feet in width, and
are adorned with many fine brick business blorks and hand-
some residences. The side walks aud streets ara kept in
good style and are generally well shadai with fine maple
trees. Near the center of the place, there is a park compris-
ing one whole block, which was donated by the original
proprietors, at the time of the laying out of the city. It
contains shade and ornamental trees, aud is laid out wi ih
intersecting walks along which are a number of rustic seats,
for the comfort of th ise who seek its cool shades. There
are eight churclies in the city, the Presbyterian, (Jhristian,
Methodist, First Baptist, Catholic, St. John's Evangelical
and two colored churches.
The jiopulation ;us taken from the census of 1880 numbers
2809, which has undoubtedly b3en increased since that time.
LEADISC MANlFACTUUIvS AND IXI)USTUIK.S.
The mining of coal, is the leading industry of the place.
There is a vast field of this mineral, underlying the whole
area of the county. There are several veins at various
depths, but the one now being worked, is of an excellent
quality, varying from six to ten feet in thickness, aud is
considered the most profitable to mine. The mines are
mostly situated along the Illinois Central railroad track, in
the suburbs of the city. The most extensive of them, is at
St. Johns, about one mile norih of the depot, an account of
which may be had below.
Du Quoin Star Coal Miiiiii;/ ('(napmvj. — At this shaft,
the coal is reached at a depth of sixty feet, and the vein
averages from six to seven feet. The company work from
fifty to ninety men, and ship from twelve to eighteen cars
per day. The coal is raised by steam power.
Enterprise Coal and Coke Company. Thisshaft was sunk in
1881, and the vein was reached at tiie depth of seventy feet
from the surface The vein will average fullv six feet, and
there are at present about fifty men employed in the mine.
It raises from eight to ten car loads per day. This is a new
mine, and as yet, is not under full headway.
The Sun Cial and Coke Comp'tin/'s mine, is the farthest
one north of the city, situated about one mile above St. Johns.
It is worked by shaft, and employs from fifty to ninety men,
and ships from twelve to eighteen car loads daily.
East of the city, about one mile from the railroad, there
are three mines being worked, known as the Ilodgers coal
mine, the Moon mine, and the Dudley and Hruckshaw mine.
The Rodgers and Moon mines, are operated by steam
power.
The Blakeslee Mannfadurinij Company, was established in
1862, by II. F. and A. J. Blakeslee. It was incorporated
in 1880, with A. J. Blakeslee, President, and E. T. Blakes-
lee, Secretary and Treasurer. They occupy large frame
buildings, and their works are fitted up with the latest im-
proved machinery, forges, etc., that are required to execute
first class workmanship. The Blakeslee Direct A('tin<'-
Steam pump, Blakeslee Steam Jet pumps, Veneering ma-
chinery, portable and stationary engines, saw-mills, mill and
coal mining machinery, etc. are the principal articles manu-
factured All kinds of job work are also done, with neat-
ness and dispatch. The works employ constantly about
thiilv-live men.
■4 oil
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
Handle Factory. This institution has been in operation
for several years under the management of the late W. H.
Holmes. Handles of all kinds, neck-yokes and singletrees
are a specialty. It employs a number of men.
Oldeudorpk ManvJachmtKj Company have recently com-
pleted a large brick building, south of the depot, and are
just beginning the manufacture of road and farm wagons.
New and improved machinery and forges have been placed
in the factory, and it promises to be one of the successful in-
dustries of the city.
The Skir Mill Ccwpony was organized April 7th, 1855,
and the articles of association were filed January 1st, 1856.
The capital stock was 84,500, divided into 450 shares. The
term of existence was fifty years, and the purposes were
those oi building and optratirg mills and other business in
Du Quoin and vicinity. The mill, a three story frame
building, is situated in the west end of the city. It has a
run of four burrs, with a capacity of eighty barrels a day.
It is a merchant mill. The leading brands of flour are
" Top Notch, "ai:d " Beauty," which are shipped principally
to southern markets. There is also a cooper shop in con-
nection with the mill, which makes the barrels The instil
tution employs in all twelve men. George McKinney and
S. J- Ross are the present owners and proprietors.
Tlie Du Quoin Mill Company was organized with a capi-
tal of Sl-'.OOO. The property is a fine four story brick
mill, situated just south of the depot. It contains four run
of burrs and two pairs of rolls, with a capacity of manu-
facturing 130 barrels per day. The mill makes a choice
grade of flour which is sold principally in southern and
southwestern cities. It is under the management of Edward
Kiramell, president, John Cunliffe, treasurer and secretary.
Davis' M/^.— Situated opposite the depot has two run of
stones and manufactures corn meal and Graham flour. It
is owned and operated by Davis & Pope. It has also, in
connection with it, an elevator constructed for handling all
kinds of grain, with a capacity of storing 20,000 bushels,
and it can handle from 5,000 to 7,000 bushels a day. The
elevator is owned by P. N. Pope.
Farmers' Mill, is a small frame structure with two burrs,
one wheat and one corn. It is a custom mill, owned and
operated by Bryant Brothers.
The Exchange Bank — was established in 1860, by G. S
Smith & Co., and was the first institution of the kind in
Perry county. It is located on Main and Division streets,
and occupies a fine brick building.
The Du Quoin Bank was established December 8th,
1877, by Henry Horn and P. N. Pope, under the style of
Horn & Pope, with H. A, Forman cashier. It continues
under the same firm and management. The building, a sub-
stantial brick structure, built for the purpose, is situated
just west of the depot.
District Fair Associaiio7i of Du Quoin. — The articles of
association are dated July 16, 1870, and were filed July 21,
1870. The district comprised the counties of Franklin,
Williamson, Jackson, Randolph and Perry. The capital
stock was stated at not less than 810,000, and not more than
8100,000, with shares at 85 00 each. The first ofticers were
President, I. M. Neely ; Vice President, William Jackson ;
Secretary, J R. Elstun ; Treasurer, Edwin Smith ; and five
trustees. There were but three fairs held by this association,
in 1870, '71 and '72. In 1871 the state fair was held here.
The enterprise proved to be a failure, and the buildings were
moved to Pinckceyville and the grounds abandoned.
Du Quoin Cemetery, situated in the northeast part of the
city, belongs to and is controlled by Hope Lodge, I. O. O F.
LEADING BUSINESS HOUSES — TRADE OF 1882.
General Stores. — William E. Brokings, John M. Brown-
ing, Henry Horn, Morris B. Lawrence, Adam Miller, Pope
& Co., George S. Smith & Co., Mifflin & White.
Groceries — William Dudley, W. A. Housel, William
Hickman, J. F Humphries & Co., John Thorwell, Kingsbury
& Johnson.
Clothing. — Joseph Solomon, Boston Clothing House.
Hardware. — George F. Blakeslee & Co., Don Onstott.
Dry Goods. — Thomas J. Eddleman.
Furniture. — W. R. Neighbors, Mrs. J. A. Palmer.
Boots and Shoes. — W. A. Smith & Co, Leonard Kentzger,
Charles F. Siekman, Louis Striker.
Phy.ncians. — W. J. Burgess, Dyer &: Carr, Amos Tetrick,
Edward Meyer, J. W. Renfro.
Druggists. — A. C. Brookings, A. T. Leraing & Co., Whited
& Lehn.
Farm Implements. — W. B. Hall, John Schneider.
Jewelers. — J. J. Higgins, W. E. Lintner.
Western Brewing Co. — Agent, Thomas Thompson.
Sewing Machines.- C. D. Elstun, J. W. Whitelock.
News Papers — Du Quoin Tribune, Du Quoin Press.
Marble Works. — John Saurbier, R. F. Drake.
Flour and Feed. — George McKinney.
Cigars and Tobacco. — Henry F. Henke, Poe & Schiele.
Meat Markets. — Beck Bros., T. Briggs & Son, Freeman
& Goel, Alfred Mills, John Kreher.
Stoves and Tinware. — Adam Muench.
Bakeries and Restaurants. — Samuel Eicenberger, E. Mc-
Elvaine, A. Tetrick, Joseph Bookstaver.
Photographers. — John C. Dopp, E. S. Wheatley.
Confectioner. — John Lewis.
Soda Water Factory. — Mrs. M Hayes.
Bill Posters- — Hurt & Barrett.
Shoemakers. — W. E. Dunn, A. Seliger.
Blacksmith and Wagon Shops. — Adam Kern, J. Henry
Willis, John Wheatley, Andy Tate, Yehling & Kraft.
Tailor. — John G. Melroy.
Harness Makers. — Jacob Messmore, Wiley Bates.
Pianos & Organs. — H. P. Stott.
Hotels. — Du Quoin can boast of having one of the best
hotels in southern Illinois, the St. Nicholas, which is a fine
brick structure, located opposite the depot. It is nicely fur-
nished and well kept by W. D. Story. There are also two
other hotels, the Shaffer House and the GifTord House.
Barber Shops — John Smith, Anton Ruess, Martin Smith.
Licery.—\\. D. Ward & Bro.
Dentists. — John J. Jennelle, Louis Betts.
436A
JOHN OLDENOORPH, PfiESI OENT^
OLDENDORPH MA N U FA C TU R I NG COMPA NY , DU Q UO I N ^ PEFRY CO. ILLINOIS .
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
437
Heal Et^tate and Insvrance. — C. F Liczee, B AV. Pope,
W. Mueller, H. P. Scott.
Pwi Master. — I. M. Neely.
SKCKET ORDERS.
Du (^uiiin lldjie Liidge, No. 232, 1. 0. O. F. meet at their
hall in Wall's Brick, every Thurtday evening at 7^ o'clock.
C C. Breed, N. G., A. L. Bryant, Sec'y.
Du (^voiu Encampment, No. 18, /. 0. 0. J', meet at Odd
Fellows' Hall, first and third Tue.'^day in each month. M
Davison, C. P., T. H. Howell, Scribe.
Du Quoin Lodije, No. '2M, A. F. A. M. Regular Commu-
nication on second Thursday evening in each month. Hall
in Post-office building. H. A. Fornian, W. M., H. P. Scott,
Sec'y.
Du (/uoin Chapter, No. a, li. A.M. Stated Convoca-
tions at Masonic Hall, on the second and fourth Mondays
of each monih. Wm. A. Housel, H. P., T. H. Howell,
Sec y.
Perry Lodge, No. 1578, A', of H. meets on the 1st and
3d Mondays of each month. Hall, 3d floor Schrader's
block, Du Quoin. John B. Ward, Dictator, W. H. East,
Reporter.
Du Quoin Easttrn Star Lodge, No. 27, A. F. .4. M. Regu-
lar Communication on la.st Tuesday evening in each month.
Hall in Pope & Co's building. C. A. Ricks, W. M., Stephen
Oates, Sec'y.
Doric Pride Lodge, No. 1940, Crand United Order of
Olid Fe/lotvs — meet at their hall in Burgess' Block, Du
Quoin, on the firrt and third Mondays in each month.
Albert Watson, N. G., Richard Dement, Sec'y.
Du (Juoin Horse and Mide Protecting Society — meets regu-
larly at stated meetings, in Du Quoin. Hiram Burbank,
President.
ST. JOHNS
is situated about one mile north of the Du Quoin depot, on
the line of the Illinois Central railroad. It was laid out as
a village by Ashley & Bro., and was surveyed and platted
by I. ¥j. Willis, county surveyor, September 13, 185(3. It is
located on sec. 5 of tp. ij S., range 1 W. In 1857 it voted
on incorporation and carried it unanimously. The first
trustees, elected June ti, 1857, were: John Wheatley, A.
W. Nason, Robert Knox, C. B. Meserole and Charles Leav-
enworth ; police magistrate, Elisha Nason.
It is not at this writing incorporated. It is a small vil-
lage con)prisiug only a few dwellings. It is here that the
fait works are located and that coal is mined more exten-
sively than at any other point in Perry county.
The Illinois Central Iron and Coal Mining Company was
organized March 3, 1857, and their articles of association
filed March 27 of the same year. The capital stock was
•536,000 divided into 560 shares, incorporated for thirty
years. The first directors and officers were : Austin S.
Tuttlc, President; Alonzo W. Nason, secretary and trea-
surer, and Orrin J. Rose. This comjjany began raining coal
in 1857. The vein at this point dips, and it is worked by
digging a slope instead of sinking a shaft, the usual way of
mining in this state. In 1867 \V. P. Holliday, of Cairo,
purchased all the stock of the company and assumed the
control and management of the mine. In the spring of
1873 a new slope was sunk, a mile and a quarter east, and is
the one now being used for mining the coal. The vein varies
from seven to ten feet in thickness, and the coal is of a superior
quality.
In 1870, while boring to examine the lower coal fields,
a salt well was struck at the depth of 940 feet. Mr. Hol-
liday at once saw the importance of this discovery, and
immediately began the erection of suitable buildings for the
manufacture of salt, which were completed, with machinery
ready for use, in November, 1873. Since then there have
been six wells sunk, from each of which are thrown from
fifteen to twenty gallons of salt water per minute. The
buildings and capacity have been greatly enlarged, and the
manufacture of five grades of salt is now being extensively
carried on. The works will average about 150 barrels of
salt per day, which are shipped mostly to soul hern states.
There is also a general store, and an elevator, constructed
for handling all kinds of grain, belonging to the works.
Besides these extensive manufacturing and mining institu-
tions, there is a farm consisting of 2,300 acres, 700 acres of
which are under cultivation, belonging to the works, all of
which are owned and controlled by Mr. Holliday. There
are employed here about 350 men, including all the branches
of business.
DIAMOND TOWN
was named from the Black Diamond Coal Mining Company's
mine, which was located at this point. The company was
organized in 1865. The mines are not being worked at this
writing, and there is nothing there but a few old buildings.
The town was laid out by James Dick, and surveyed and
platted by William H. Lovelady, county surveyor, Sep-
tember 15, 1864. It is located on the N. W' . quarter of sec
29, tp. 5 S., range 1 W.
BIOGRAPHIES.
Was a native of White county, Illinois, and was born
March 25th, 1824 ; his parents, Woods M. and Jane
(McCluskey) Hamilton, were natives of Tennessee, and emi-
grated to Illinois and settled in White county soon after
the State was admitted to the Union. Woods M. Hamilton
was a Cumberland Presbyterian minister ; he was the father
of ten children — nine sons and one daughter ; but two of
them are now living, viz : Dr. Hamilton, of Murphysboro,
Illinois, and Jane, who was the wife of Judge J. M. Ralls,
now deceased, of Randolph county, Illinois, now the wife of
Mr. Fulton, of the same county. Presley P. was raised in
the home of his father, in White county ; while yet a young
man he entered the law office of Hon. S. S. Marshall, of
McLeansboro, and read law ; before he finished his studies,
he removed to Pinckneyvilleand there completed his studies
in the office and under the tuition of Col. William Edwar's,
an eminent and successful lawyer of that place. He was ad-
mitted to the bar when he was in his twenty-second year.
Judge Scates, one of the Supreme Justices of tlie State, pre
sided over the circuit courts of Perry county at that time. In
the fall of 1858 Mr. Hamilton entered the Law School at
Louisville, Kentucky, and graduated from that institution
438
in February, 1859 ; he continued the prr.clice in Perry and
surrounding counties until 186 ], and had built up a large and
lucrative business, and was reganled as one of the leading
lawyers in the circuit; in 1863 he experienced religion and
became a convert and member of the M. E. Church ; he
conceived it to be his duty to enter the ministry of the
church, which he did, notwithstanding that by so doing he
sacrificed his large and profitable business, and took up
a calling that promised no eraolumeiits beyond a mere
living ; but he was as earnest and sincere in his last pro-
fession as he was active and energetic in the first. He was
admitted to the ministry at the Southern Illinois Con-
ference held at Olney, and his first labors were on the Kin-
niundy circuit; two years later he was transferred to Litcih-
field Station, and there remained three years; then went to
Alton, where he remained one year. His health then began
to fail, and he was compelled to seek repose from his labors,
but, alas ! it was too late. He departed this life October
22nd, 1869, having been actively engaged in the ministry
nearly six years. In 1865 he was ordained deacon, and in
1867, an elder in the church. He was by nature admirably
adapted to the ministry ; he was devout and earnest; his great
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
439
earnestness carried conviction tothosewhocamein contact with
his niinistraiions, and as an exhorter he was powerful; ail
acknowledged his power and ability to sway his auditnce,
and lead iheiu in the path of righteousness. That he was
useful, and had not mistaken his culling, it is proved by
the fact that in the six years of his ministry he converted
five hundred, and led them into the fold of the church. Ills
great regret was that he had heeded the call to the ministry
at the eleventh hour, and therefore .said he must do a whole
day's work in one hour. In his home he was a kind and
devoted husband, and to his children an affectionate and
indulgent father.
On the 2()th of July, 184(), he mirried Mi-ii Lucy M.
daughter of Humphrey B. and Harriet I Dobbins) Jones.
Mrs. Jones was born in Virginia, but reareci and married in
Christian county, Kentucky, where Mr. Jones was born and
raised. Mr. Jones came to Illinois in April, 1821, and set-
tled in JJrownsville, -Jackson county, and there followed the
practice of medicine, and continued there until April 21st,
1827, when he removed to Perry county, which had just
been organized ; he entered the land on which Pinckneyville
now stands, and assisted in locating and laying out the town
when the county sen was located. He was the first county and
circuit clerk, and held nearly all the offices of the county
for sixteen years. In addition, he was the leading physician
und post-master of Pinckneyville. lie Wds admitted to the
bar about 1841), and from that time to his death was the
leading lawyer, and was engaged ou one side or the other of
ne.rly »11, if not all, the ca.'es tried in the courts of Perry
county. He was indeed a prominent and in many re.«pects
a remarkable man. His death occurred Nov. 18th, 18.")."),
nged fifiytix years. Mrs. Hamilton was born in Pinckney-
ville, December 2;)rd. 1S27, and is credited with being the
first child born in that town. There was born to Mr. and
Mrs. Hatiiilton six children — five sons and one daughter.
Three of the sons died in infancy. Harriet A., the only
daughter, married Joseph R Blackwell ; she died December
9th, 1878, leaving three children, named Lucy, Bessie, and
Guy Blackwell. The names of the surviving sons are:
Edward J., who married Miss Lena Baldwin, of Ironton,
Missouri, and John ,]. Hamilton, who is a book-keej)er in
St. Louis.
CHARLES P. RICHARDS,
One of the proprietors and editors of the Tribune, is a native
of Wyoming county, New York, born September 18th,
1841. He is the son of Newell G.. and Roxyelte (Kingsley)
Richards, who are the descendants of old settlers in New-
York. Josiah W. Kingsley, the maternal grandfather, is
still living. He is closely related to the Fulton family, of
which Robert Fulton, the inventor of the steamboat, was a
raem})er. Newell G. Richards remained in New York fol-
lowing the occupation of a farmer uniil the winter of 180."),
when he removed west and settled in Flint, Michigan, where
he at present resides. By his marriage with Miss Roxyette
Kingsley there were seven children, only two of whom are
at present living, viz., James B , who for the greater portion
of his life has been engaged in mercantile pursuits, and the
subject of this sketch. Charles P. received a fair Iviglish
education in the schools of his native county. At the age
of fifteen he entered a printing office in the town of Perry,
and served an apprenticeship of three years, after which he
worked at the case iu the printing office at Gcneseo, and
from there went to Warsaw and took the foremanship of an
office. In the fiiU of 1864 he came west to Michigan,
and stopped at Kalamazoo, where he worked at the case.
One year later he went to Chicago, where he remained six
months, then came down to Champaign, Ills., and clerked at
a hotel for six months, after which he returned to the trade,
and worked in the printing offices of Toledo, Ohio, Wabash,
Ind., and Bloomington, Ills, returning to Champaign where
he was married. He then went to Rock Island and worked
on a daily paj)er for nearly one year. His health failing
him, he returned to Champaign, in the offices of which place,
after his health had recruited, he worked, and in August
1808 he came to Du Quoin, and returning to Champaign, ten
months later, took charge of the Gazette office as foreman.
In Nov., 1870, he returned to Du Quoin and purchased a
third interest iu the Tribune office. The firm of R. Berry
& Co. continued until 1874, when Berry's interest was pur-
chased by the remaining partners, who, under the firm name
of Beem & Richards, have continued the publicatiou of the
Tribune to the present. The Tribune, under the manage-
ment of the latter firm, has ri.sen to be the most potential
organ in the Twentieth Congressional District, and one
of the prominent and leading newspapers in Southern Illi-
nois. The office is superior to many country offices in its
outfit of power presses, type and all kinds of material neces-
sary to do any and all kinds of first-class work. Both these
gentlemen are practical printers, and have had many years
of practical experience in both country and metropolitan
offices, and therefore bring to the office a thorough knowledge
of the wants of the people and the interests of the community,
whiih, as ne ispaper publishers, they represent On the 2d
of August, 18(!6, Mr. Richards was united in marriage to
Miss Emma L., daughter of Lyman D and Freelove C.
(Brown) Chaddon, of Champaign, Illinois. Mrs. Richards'
parents are natives of New York. At present they are
residents of Wellington, Kansas. There have been three
children born to Mr. and Mrs. Richards, whose names, in
the order of their birth are, Herman E., Helen Corabelle
and Charles Albert Richards. Mr. Richards, politically,
comes from a Democratic family, but after casting his first
vote with that party, joined the Republican ranks. He cast
his first presidential vote for Abraham Lincoln iu 1864, and
for each succeeding Republican president since.
440
HISTORY 01 RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
^^^-wXj^^/^^
The rliUject of the following sketch has been for many
years one of the prominent educators of Perry county. He
was born in Cayuga county, New York, July 18th, 1836.
The Ward family on the paternal side is of English descent
and on the maternal French. A. Ward, his father, was a
native of New York. Removed toClaremont county, Ohio,
in 1841, and there remained until 1857, when he came to
Illinois and settled in Perry county, where he died in 18/3.
He followed the peaceful occupation of a farmer during his
active life. He married Priscilla H. Brand, who was born
in western New York. She died in this county in 1875.
John B. Ward, the subject of this sketch, is the fifth in a
family of nine children, four of whom have survived the
parents and are yet living. The oldest son, G. C. Ward
during ihe late war enlisted for three years, and became a
member of Company G, 12lh Ills. Vol. Inlty. He was
killed at the second battle of Corinth, where he participated
with his commander in a desperate charge upon the enemy
to recapture a battery. John B. was reared upon the farm
and attended the District schools of Claremont county
during the winter months, and therein received his primary
education, which was of such a character as fitted him for
entrance to the high schools and academies of the county.
In those institutions he laid the foundations of his learn-
ing, which Has afterward improved by self-culture, exten-
sive reading and many years of teaching. In the spring of
1855 he came We.«t to Illinois and stopped at Galesburg, in
Knox county. In May of the same year came to Du
Quoin and here served an apprenticeship at tbe pla-terer's
trade and worked at the business for three years. During
those years he taught school in the winter months, returning
to his trad -. with the opening of spring. He is credited with
teaching the first school established in the city of Du Quoin.
He then concluded to adopt the profession of teaching and
m<ke it his life work, and with this view he studied the
various methods and systems of teaching and commenced
fitting and equipping himself forthe work. He entered upon
it and has followed it steadily to the present time During the
last twelve years he has been principal of the public schools
of Du Quoin. In 1873 his reputation and skill as an
educator received suitable and honorable recognition from
the citizens of Perry county, who elected him county
superintendent of schools, overall competitors, by a hand-
some majority. In 1877 he was re-elected, filling the position
for eight years with great credit to himself, aud also in that
time bringing the public schools of the county up to a
standard second no other county in the State. In 1882
he was an Independent candidate for the same position, but
owing to the many factious and different parties, and
much oonfusion in political circles, he was defeated by the
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
441
small majority of thirty-six votes. Combinations by politi-
cal leaders often thwart the will of the people. Politically
Mr. Ward cast his first vote for Abraham Lincoln and the
Kepublican ticket, and on State and national occasions
from that time to the present, has given that party his
support. However he possesses sufBcient independence to
ignore party ties and affiliations and give his support to
men and measures that in his judgment will redound to the
best interests of his county and country. On the 18th of
September, 1857, he was united in marriage to Miss
Margery, daughter of Silas and Elizabeth (Emery) Hutch-
inson. She was born in Claremont county, Ohio, April
14th, 1837. By the union of Mr. and Mrs. Ward there are
four children living. There names in the order of their
birth are, Eva, who is the wife of Eli T. Blakeslee, Hattie
Gertrude, wifeof Valle Nettleton, Harry B. and Charles E.
Ward. Both Mr. Ward and his estimable wife are members
of the Presbyterian church. In his habits he is strictly
temperate, and in his manners is a pleasant and affable gentle-
man, unassuming and quiet. In the community where -he
has lived for many years, and where people know him best,
he is highly respected for his worth as a man and citizen.
HIRAM L. BURBANK.
Among the prominent and substantial farmers and old
settlers of Perry county is the subject of this sketch. Henry
Burbank, the grandfather of Hiram L., was born and lived
until the day of his death in New Hampshire. He married
a Miss Johnson, and of that union was Johnson Burbank.
He was born in the same State in 1790. He came to Illi-
nois in 1837 and entered land in Perry county, returned, and
the nest year came west with his family and settled on it.
It was the same tract on which the subject of this sketch
now lives. There he remained until his death, except a few
years that he was in Kentucky. His death occurred in 18.)()
He married Mary Paren, born in 1788, and died in 1880,
There were six children, all living. Their names are Edwin,
William P., George W., Emily S., widow of John Stratton,
deceased, Hiram L. and Laura, wife of Henry K. Wells,
now of Whiteside county, Illinois. Hiram L. was born in
Haverhill, New Hampshire, April 3, 1826. He received a
fair English education in his youth, came west with his
father, and in 1849, went to Kentucky and operated a saw
mill there for about six years, then returned to the old home-
stead, engaged in farming and has continued there until the
present. On the 14th of August, 18.")0, he was united in
marriage to Miss Melvina Tucker, daughter of James R.
Tucker, of Union county, Ky. She died July 18, 18.54,
leaving one child living named Henry M. Burbank, who
was born and raised on the old homestead and married
Hattie, daughter of Wily and Mary Lipe, old settlers of
Perry county. They have four children named Gussie
Guy, Alice M. and Annie Burbank. Mr. Hiram L. Bur-
bank, on the 12th of February, ISGl, married his second
56
wife, whose name was Alice M. Seeley. She died September
6, 1863, without issue. Mr. Burbank is a Republican in
politics. He has been justice of the peace since 1873. He
was raised a member of the Presbyterian church. He is one
of the pioneers of Perry county, and much respected for his
nobility of character.
M. B. LAURENCE,
The editor of the Du Quoin Pras, is a native of New Jer-
sey, where he was born February 25, 1837. He is the son
of Isaac and Keturah (Springer) Laurence. He received
his education in the common schools of his native State,
which was supplemented by a short term in the academy.
He remained at home until in his twentieth year, when he
came west, to Illinois, and stopped in Christian county; from
the e removed to Sangamon county, and engaged in -scliool-
teaching and stock business. In 1863 he came toDu Quoin
to superintend the coal mines of Frank Priest, then a wealthy
capitalist of Decatur, Illinois. Two years later he engaged
in the hardware business, which he subsequently abandoned
to engage in steamboating on the Ohio and Cumberland
rivers. In 1878 he returned to Du Quoin and re-engaged
in merchandising, in which he continued until 1881, when
he became a partner in, and editor of the Du Quoin Piess,
a weekly paper removed from Tamaroa, and established
here in the same year. The Press, under his able editorial
management, has become well known to the citizens of Perry
county. Politically he is independent in politics, and sup-
ports men and measures regardless of party ties or affiliation.
Upon questions of a religious character, he is liberal. He sub-
scribes to none of the formulated creeds or dogmas of
churches, but believes in the golden rule of doing to others
as he would have others do unto him, and believes that in the
strict observance of that rule is contained the true spirit of
religion. Mr. Laurence has been twice married. The date
of the first was January 25, 1865, to Miss Eunice Miller.
She died December 31, of the same year, leaving a child,
named Emma Laurence. In April, 1871, he married his
present wife, Susan Evans, of Aurora, Illinois.
CHARLES W. AND ALBERT N. CURLEE,
Are sons of Jesse W. and Mary (Stout) Curlee, and both
are natives of Perry county, Illinois. They received a good
English education in the schools of Tamaroa, and both
learned the printer's trade, and are practical printers. They
started in the printing business, in Tamaroa, in 1879, where
they continued until Sej)tember, 1881, when they moved the
press and material to Du Quoin, and in connection with M.
B. Laurence, as editor, established the Du Quoin Pia/.
They are active and energetic young men, and if fortune is
not too severe, we predict for them wealth, prosperity and
fame in the journalistic world.
442
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
(^. fp (^3J^^^^^^^
The subject of the following sketch is one of the active
and energetic business men, and the leading manufacturer
of Du Quoin. The Blakeslee family belong to a race of
machinists. They take naturally to mechanism. Albert
Judd Blakeslee was born in Perryville, Madison county,
New York, March 1, 1824. He is the son of Eli and Emily
(Judd) Blakeslee, who were of English descent. The family
originally settled in Litchfield, Conn., and from there moved
to New York. Eli Blakeslee, while a resident of the latter
State, was engaged in the manufacturing of carriages and
wagons. In 1845 he brought his family to Illinois and set-
tled in Metamora, in Woodford county, and there opened a
foundry and machine shop, and carried on the business un-
til 18.57, when he was induced to remove to Ullin, in Pulaski
county, and engage in the milling business, which, after a
trial of three years, proved disastrous financially. In 1860
he came to Du Quoin, and in connection with his sons
established a machine shop on a small scale, and there he
remained until his death. He married Miss Emily Judd. of
New York. Albert Judd Blakeslee is one of the offspring
of that union. He received only an ordinary common school
education in his youth, which was afterward improved by
a short time in the academy, and by teaching for a term.
He went into his father's shop, served an apprenticeship, and
at eighteen years of age took charge of the forging depart-
ment of a foundry and machine shop at Fredonia, New
York. He came west with his father, and was connected
with him in business until the former's death. He con-
tinued the business in Du Quoin with his brothers, and
much of the business growth and success of the manufactory
is due to the energy, inventive genius, and business tact of
A. J. Blakeslee. He is the inventor and manufacturer of
the well-known directing and acting pump for heavy service
in mine work or boiler feeding. He is also the inventor of
the Veneer machine, which is extensively used in all parts
of the United States, and is especially adapted for cutting
fruit-box material. The first successful Steam Jet Pump
was patented by him in 1809, which the Company still con-
tinue to manufacture. The Blakeslee Manufacturing Com-
pany, of which he is president, also manufacture portable
engines, and do a general jobbing business.
On the 27th of March, 1851, he married Miss Sarah Jane,
daughter of Thomas Wafer. She was born in La Salle
county, Illinois, in 1829. Her father was a native of South
Carolina, and a soldier in the Black Hawk war. Five
children have been born to him and Mrs. Blakeslee, four of
whom are living. Their names in the order of their birth
are : Eli T., who is secretary and treasurer of the Blakeslee
Manufacturing Company. He married Eva, daughter of
John B. Ward, of Du Quoin. Ella M., wife of H. P. Scott,
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
443
attorney at law, Du Quoin. Eda E., who was the wife of
J. C. Sturgeon. She died in February, 18S2, leaving two
children. Clarence Eugene, who is at present a student in
the Industrial University at Urbaiia, Illinois, and Albert H.
Blakeslee. Both Mr. and Mrs. Blakeslee are members of the
Episcopal Church.
Dr. L. dyer.
The Dyer family is of English ancestry and the descendants
of an old family. Members of the family emigrated to
America at an early day in the history of this county,
some of whom were soldiers in the revolutionary war. Dr.
Dyer was born in Shaftesbury, Bennington county, Vermont.
He is the son of Henry and Sarah Coy Dyer, natives of
Connecticut. He grew to manhood in Vermont, and re-
ceived his primary education in the common schools, and
his literary education in the academy. His professional
studies were obtained in the Berkshire Medical Institute, at
Pittsfield, a dei)artmcnt of Williams College, from which
institution he graduated in 1828 He entered upon the
practice in his native county, but a few years later was in-
duced to go west, in which direction emigration was then
tending. He followed the stream to Ohio, and settled in
(Jrecnbrier county, where he was appointed physician to
Kenyon College and Theological Institute. From these he
removed to Mount Vernon and shared the office with I Ion.
Columbus Delano, late secretary of the interior. In ihv
latter place he edited a whig newspaper, in addition to
practi.*ing his profession. In 18.5"), he removed to Iowa, but
the climate of that State proving too severe after a two
years' residence, removed to Du Quoin, Illinois, where he
has since resided. While a resident of Iowa, he was offered,
but declined, a profes.sorship in the Medical College at
Keokuk. During the late war he took a prominent and
decided stand in favor of the union, and sustaining the
armies in the field, and promoting the growth of union
sentiment in Southern Illinois. In 1.^(12, while at Sjiring-
field. Gov. Yates importuned him to enter the service as a
surgeon of one of the regiments that were then being or-
ganized. He consented, appeared before the Medical
E.vamining Board, ])assed a highly creditable examination,
and was commissioned surgeon and a.ssigned to duty with
the Mst Regiment Illinois Vol. Infty., the date of which
was August 20, 1862. In October following he was placed
on the operating staff, in which position he served two years,
and then was made surgeon-in-chief, appointing his own
staff. While in the service an incident occurred which
demands notice here. Two or three officers of the line
having become, without cause, hostile to him, succeeded by
perjury in having charges preferred against him, which
were forwarded to the secretary of war. The information
of the conspiracy came to Dr. Dyer one month after its con-
coction, and after the false evidence was sent to Washington.
He upon first knowledge made enquiries at division head-
quarters, and was there informed that no paper of such
purport had passed through the hands of the general. But
his colonel still persisted that a paper containing charges
against the doctor had been forwarded, and believed that it
would result with his (the doctor's) dishonorable discharge
and advised him to resign. This the doctor refused to do,
declaring that such action on his part would be an admission
of guilt, and would in his judgment be cowardly. He went
at once to General (irant's head-quarters, and then learned
positively that charges had been made and where then in
the hands of the secretary of war, at Washington. He
enquired of General Grant what an innocent and honorable
man should do under the circumstances. General Grant at
once issued an order to General McPherson to order a court
of inquiry and investigate the whole matters. The court was
convened, charges investigated, and Dr. Dyer declared inno-
cent. The proceedings with a letter were forwarded to the
war department, but in the meantime an order dismissing
him from the service and loss of pay, was received and read
on dress parade. Surgeon Dyer was present and remarked
that " this is not the end of it." He took of!" his shoulder
straps, repaired to General McPher.son's head-iiuarters and
.*aid, " General, I have come to tender my services to carry
a musket in the ranks. The medical director, who was pre-
sent said, " If Dr. Dyer wishes to volunteer I shall l)e very
glad to assign him to duty, as I need his services very much."
The Dr. accepted, and was assigned to duty, and Vemained ,<i.\
weeks, when an order for his reinstalment was received,
which was as widely published as the order of dismissal.
We mention this incident as one of the many growing out of
the turbulent times of the war. Had it not been for the
doctor's determination and pluck, not to suffer the ignomiiiv
of a dishonorable discharge, when he was guilty of no
crime, misdemeanor, or semblance of it, perhaps the onler
would have remained in force and he for ever disgraced, but
he staid upon the ground until his vindication came and was
given as much publicity as his discharge. One of the highest
compliments i)aid to the intelligence and integrity of Dr.
Dyer was the fact, that he was called upon to write the his-
tory of the command to which he was attached, for the use
and information of the state of Illinois. At the close of the
war, congress p;issed a bill granting him full pay and allow-
ance for the si.\ weeks he was nominally out of the service.
He returned to Du Quoin after the close of the war, and re-
sumed his practice, in which he yet continues. On the 2d
of Sept., 187o, he was appointed examining surgeon for
pensions in the district. Dr. Dyer married Miss Laura A.
I'urdy, of Vermont, by which union there were two sons and
four daughters. In religious faith he is a Presbyterian. His
eldest brother was a clergyman in the M. E. church, while
his younger brother. Rev. H. Dyer, of New York, is one of
the most distinguished Episcopalian ministers in that
church, having been in 184") elected president of the uni-
versity of western Pennsylvania, and in May, \H&.\ elected bi-
shop of Kansas. Politically Dr. Dyer is a Republican. He is
a member of the Southern Illinois ]\Iedical A.ssociation, and
others, that have for their object the mutual improvement
and advancement of its members, and at different times has
been president of that body.
444 HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
The subject of the following sketch is one of the rising
young lawyers of Perry county. The family is of English
descent. His ancestors settled in New Hampshire, and from
there removed to Vermont, in the year 1840. Charles W.
Scott, the father of Henry P., came to Illinois, for his health,
in 1866, settled in Bureau county, and there died in 1871.
He married Lucy Kellum. She died in 18.54. By that
union there were eight children. Henry Percy Scott is the
youngest living. He was born, in Johnson, La Moille county,
Vermont, Aug. 2nd, 1852. His primary education was re-
ceived in the excellent schools of his native state, and sub-
sequently much improved by a two years' term in the acad-
emy in Johnson. He came west with his father, in 1866, to
Bureau county, and worked on a farm, until 1868. In 1869,
he came south to Centralia, and three months later went to
Murphysboro, in Jackson county, and on the 10th of March,
1870, came to Du Quoin, and there engaged in the sewiug
machine business, as general agent for the Florence sewing
machine company. In 1873 he added music, in which lat-
ter trade he, to some extent, still continues. In 1877, he
opened an office, with real estate, loan and insurance busi-
ness, in which he is still largely interested. In 1878, he
commenced the study of law, under S. -G. Parks, and in
August of 1881 was upon examination admitted to the bar.
He commenced the practice in Du Quoin, and has met with
very flattering success. He is a young man of industry,
energy, and to the possessor of these qualities, continued
success is assured. He held the position of City Clerk of
Du Quoin for two years, and in that position, gave complete
satisfaction to the people of that city. Politically, he is a
sound Republican, and has been frequently called upon to
represent his constituency in the various county. Senatorial
and Congressional conventions, held in his district. He is a
member of the Ancient and honorable order of A. F. & A.
M., and also a member of the I. 0. O. F., and Knights of
Pythias. On the 12th of March, 1875, he was united in
marriage to Miss Ella M., daughter of A. J. & Sarah Blakes-
lee, ofDu Quoin. That union has been blessed with four
children. Mrs. Scott was born in Metamora, Woodford
county, Illinois. Both Mr. and Mrs. Scott are members of
the Episcopal Church.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
445
R. W. S. WHEATLEY,
OsE of the rising young attorneys of Perry county, is the
subject of the following sketch. He was born in St. Clair
county, Illinois, August 19th, 1850. The family were
formerly natives of Virginia. Mordecai Wheatley, the
grandfather, came from that state to Ohio, and from there
to Perry county, Illinois, in March, 1842, and remained here
until his death, which occurred in 1880. He married Mary
Wheately who was also a native of Virginia. She de-
parted this life in Du Quoin, in the spring of 1882. By
that marriage is Warren Wheatley, father of the subject of
this sketch. He was born in Tuscaroras county, Ohio, in
1828, and came with his father to Perrj' county on the date
above mentioned. In 1850, he moved to St. Clair county,
and lived there a few years then returned to Perry and
settled in the vicinity of Du Quoin, and subsequently moved
into town and resides there at p resent. He was by occupation
a farmer, also a wagon maker by trade. On the 14th of
August. 1849, he was united in marriage to Miss Kachel.
daughter of Robert and Martha, (Beard) Stewart. She was
born in Jeffersonville, Indiana. By that union there are
three children living, Robert W. S , is the first born ;
Martha, the only sister, and James W. Wheatley are the
namei of the sons and daughter. Robert's education was
received in the public schools of Du Quoin and viciuity
He followed different callings until he was eighteen years of
age, at which time he entered the office of Col. R. R.
Townes, an attorney of Du Quoin, and commenced the study
of law. He read the standard text books and prosecuted
his studies diligently until the spring term of the supreme
court, 1871, held at Mt. Vernon, Illinois, when upon ex-
amination he was admitted to the bar. He commenced the
practice in Du Quoin, and has continued there until the
present. In the practice of his profession he has been more
than ordinarily successful, and at present has the largo.-^t
practice, and is the most successful criminal lawyer at the
bar of the county. He brings to it energy, studious and in-
dustrious habits which in due time bring their own reward,
which is seen in his constantly increasing practice. J[r.
Wheatley early learned that the law is a jealous mistress
that required all the time of her devotees if they would
succeed and become eminent and learned in the profession.
What he is in the law, and what he may become, depends
upon himself He entered the profession under no advan-
tageous circumstances nor had he an)' powerful or iufluential
friends to back him or lend him a helping hand ; but his
succcs-s, so far, is due to his indomitable energy and de-
termination to win a place in the front rank at the bar. He
is eini)hatically the architect of his own fortune. He has
filled acceptably the position of City Attorney of Du Quoin
for several years. In 1882, he was the Independent can-
didate for the office of County Judge, but was defeated by
so small a majority that his candidacy reflects credit upon
himself. Politically he is a Republican. lie is a member
of the I. O. 0. F. order. In his habits he is temperate, and
never indulges or befogs his brain with any intoxicating
liquors of any kind.
JOHN T. BEEM,
OxE of the editors and publishers of the Du Quoin Trib-
une, was born in Pittsburg, Ponn., Aug. 23rd, 1838. He
is the son of Andrew and Margaret (Hoppe) Beem. His
parents removed to Illinois in 1844, and settled in Alton,
and there John T. was educated, and grew to manhood. At
the age of fourteen years, he entered the office of the Alton
Telegraph, and served an apprenticeship of four years at the
printer's trade. The Teh graph, was then one of the most
|)rominent journals in Illinois, or in the west. He continued
in the office until 1860, when he became one of the owners
and editors of the paper. The war of the rebellion breaking
out soon after, he sacrificed his interest in the office to enter
the service, his father, and two brothers entering before him.
He enlisted in Co. " G.," of the OTth Regt., Ills. Vol. Infty.
Six months after the enlistment, he was placed on detached
service, serving one year with the Cliicago Mercantile
Battery, and one year and six months as clerk at the head-
quarters of Gen. T. E. G. Ransom, Gen. M. Lawler and
Gen. E. R. S. Canby, at New Orleans. After the war, he
returned to his home, in Alton, and worked at the printing
business for two years, then came to Du Quoin, arriving in
the latter place in June of i86S. He worked as a "jour."
until Nov. 7th, 1870, when in connection witli C. P. Richards,
he purchased two thirds interest in the Trilntw. The (irm of
Berry it Co. published the paper until 1874. when Barry's
interest was purchased by Messrs. Beem it Richards, and
they bei ame the sole proprietors and publishers of the Tiib-
line, and have coutiuiieil its publication to the jjreseut.
The Tribune, under their management, has risen to an honor-
able and promiuent position in the journalism of the State,
and is recognized as the leading organ of its party, in the 20th
Cong. District. Mr. Beem is a practical and thorough print-
er and skilled workman, and has few superiors auywhere.
Specimens of his handicraft show artistic beauty and original-
ity of design. On the 17tli of May, 18('it), he married Miss
Elvina McGowen, of Butler county, Pa., daughter of James
McGowen. She died June 10th, 187-3, leaving two children
named Delia and Loren Beem. On the 3rd of .Sept , 1879,
he was united in marriage to Jliss Cara D., daughtir of Rev.
E. F. & Anna II. Fisk. Siie is a native of Ohio. By that
union there is one child, named Cara. JTrs. Beem is a
member of the Presbyterian Chinch. Politically, Mr. Beem
east his first vote for Abraham Lincoln, and in all subsequent
general elections voted and worked for the Republican ticket.
CUTLER
PERRY CO.
in tlie extreme western portion of the
comity. It is better known as Lost
Prairie, which name was changed a few
vears ago. Its northern boundary line
commencing at the west, is the south
of section thirty-one of Grand Cote,
then foHowing along the west bank of
Galum Creek to the southeast corner
of section eight of town five south, range
four west, thence due east to the western
boundary line of town five, range three
west. Ou the east it is bounded by
Piucknevville, on the south by South Western, on the west
by Randolph county, aud ou the north by Grand Cote. It
comprises the two northern tiers of sections in town six,
range four, and all of congressional town five south, range
three, save those sections lying east of Galum Creek and
north of the southern boundary line of those sections north
of the boundary line of the tier beginning with section
thirteen of that town. It is admirably watered and drained
by both branches of Galum Creek, which enter from the
north at sections three aud sis, aud unite in section thirty-
four, flowing southeast and passing out at the southeast
corner of the precinct.
The Tamaroa, Chester & Western railroad passes through
this precinct from the northeast to the southwest. A large
portion of this precinct was formerly timber land, though the
Sis Mile Prairie extended from north to south, through the
entire precinct. Much of the timber land has been con-
verted into valuable farms. Couant's and Eaton's prairie
are also within the limits of this precinct; and the lower
edge of the Lost Prairie has its terminus in the northern
part. It received the name of Lost Prairie at a very early
day in the history of the county. The occasion of giving it
that name, grew out of the circumstance of a party of several
men getting lost there on their way from Vincennes to
Kaskaskia. The date of its receiving that name is not
known, or the circumstances that gave rise to it, other than
above stated.
Among the first settlers was Enoch Eaton, who is still
living. He settled on the N. E. one-quarter of section 24,
T. 5, R. 4, where be now resides, in 1825, the territory
belonging then to Randolph county, previous to the organi-
zation of Perry. There were at that time only six or seven
families residing in the precinct. Their names were John
Murphy, the father of Robert, James, Richard G. and
William C. Murphy, names familiarly interwoven with the
history of this county, and natives of Smith county, Ten-
nessee ; the family of Richard Green, a native of N. Y. ;
446
Hugh Brown, the father of John Brown of Conant's prairie,
from South Carolina; Matthew Vaun, from Tennessee;
Andrew Cooper and Shadrach Lively, The nearest post-
office in those early days was Kaskaskia, and this was also
the place of the nearest store, kept by a merchant, Lamm.
The nearest grist mill was that of George Steele, ou the
present site of Steelesville. It was a tread mill operated by
five or six yoke of oxen. The early settlers had most of
their blacksmith work done at that place also.
In ISoO, Isaac Eaton opened a cabinet shop in the
precinct. He stocked plows, put up some wagons, and did
general repairing. He constructed a turning lathe, and
furnished the neighbors with bedsteads, chairs, tables, &c.,
and especially spinning-wheels. His pay was often work
for work. The party who came for work would go out and
make rails for him, wliile he worked in the shop. He
relates the circumstance which is not liable now to occur to
our minds, that there were no matches in those early days.
If a family happened to let the fire go out, the first thing
to do would be, to go out and see from what one of the neigh-
bors' chimney smoke could be discovered, so that no mis-
take might be made when in quest of fire. It used to be
quite a common remark, years after matches came into use,
when a neighbor went to another's house in a hurry, for him
to ask "if he was after fire," as one was always regarded as
being in a hurry when after that element, especially to get
breakfast. A flint and steel were sometimes used to start a
fire, and were, in those early days, the standby, when all
other expedients failed.
In 18.32 a Baptist church was organized by Peter Hagler
in Eaton's prairie, at the house of Samuel Eaton.
A church building was put up about that time by the
members of this denomination, on a ridge north of the Sparta
road, between Lost prairie and Eaton's prairie, and was the
only church building for many years in that precinct.
About 1832, Clark built a horse or ox mill. This mill
proved a failure, and did not run long. It was located on
the east side of Lost prairie, about a fourth of a mile north
of the Sparta road. The settlers then got their milling done
at Pope's Steam Mill, on Mary's river, in Randolph county.
The first school taught in Lost prairie was in 1827 or '28.
It was taught in a barn belonging to Green, by Miss Elvira
Tilden. It was a neighborhood school, and consisted of
about ten scholars. The tuition paid was two dollars per
scholar. In 1835 the first school-house was built iu the
precinct, on section 16, T. 5, R. 3, by the neighborhood. It
was a rude log cabin, covered with clap-boards, secured by
ridge pales. A log cut out of one side served for a window
without any glass. The desks, as well as seats, were of split
446A
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
447
logs. The first school teacher was John Cooper, a South
Carolinian. The house was built in the spring, and he
taught school in it during the summer season. The school-
books consisted of the old-fa.sliioned Webster's spelling book,
biographical sketches, and the Testament for reading;
Pike's arithmetic, and Walker's dictionary. These consti-
tuted our first boys' school, and outfit in those early days
and a boy was considered lucky if he had all of those.
In 1837, a school was kept in theedgeofConant's prairie,
near Robert Cunningham's. It was soon after removed near
where Squire Henry Brown lived.
Dr. Brayshaw, in Nine Mile, near old Du Quoin, admin-
istered to the medical wants of the earliest settlers in this
precinct, as in many others, for several years, when the county
was in its infancy. Their next physician was Dr. Jeunegin,
located at Steele's Mills.
The lawyers, known to the earlv settlers of that precinct,
were David J. Baker, Sidney Brcese, Col. J. L. D. Morris-
son, of Ka.skaskia; John Daugherty, of Union county; Jefl!"
Gatewood, and S. 8 Marshall, of Shawneetown, and old
Governor Reynolds. These were the legal fraternity that
most generally followed the courts around from circuit to
circuit, and from county to county. People did not need
many lawyers, in those days, and we sometimes hear a sigh
for a return of those good old days.
The following are the first land entries in that portion of
T. 5 S., R. 4 W., which is included ki Cutler: April 2o,
1815, William Mcintosh entered the N. E. } of section 34.
March 27, 1818, Matthew Vaun entered the S. E. i of sec-
tion 21. January 13, 1819, Shadrach Lively entered the
E. * of the S. E. \ of section 31. March 10, 1819, Charles
Owen entered the E. * of the N. E. J of section 33. January
6, 1820, Alexander Wier entered the N. E. i of section 8.
CUTLER.
This village was laid out by D. C. Barber, president, and
W. B. Stephenson, secretary of the Chester and Tamaroa
Coal and Railroad Company, on the east half of the south-
west quarter of section five, township six south, range four;
and by R. C. Allen, on a part of the northwest quarter of
the southeast quarter of the same section. It was platted and
surveyed by J. V. Tyler, County Surveyor, February 25,
1873. It is situated in the southwest corner of the precinct
of the .same name, and is a station on the Chester and Tam-
aroa railroad. The village school-house is a frame building
in which is taught an ungraded school. The United Pres-
byterians, since the fall of 1881, have met for worship in a
neat frame church. Haifa mile north of the hamlet, the Re-
formed Presbyterians have a handsome brick church, which
was built in 1858. Near the village is 'Maynard's coal
mine, from which are daily raised, by horse power, about
one hundred and fifty bushels of coal.
I-RESENT BUSINE.«a.
Pht/sieians. — A. Bruce, F. P. Gil lis.
Druij'jiiU- — Bruce & White, F. Faraen.
General Stores — Gardner and Bros., C. Preston.
Books and Stationery. — John McClure.
Lumber.— \y. T. White & Co.
Grain Elevntur. — H. C. Cole & Co.
General Merchandise, Grain and Livery. — John Brown.
Mill. — Joseph Brown.
Station Agent.— \V. T. White.
<Sait' Mill. — Battey Bros.
Carpenter. — Henry Darrough.
Blacksmith. — James Kelso, George Krontz.
Shoemaker. — Peter Keller.
General Store and Post-office. — P. J. C. Hamm.
Saiv Mill— J. Shutt.
Black-imilh. — E. Koontz.
NEW HANOVER
MONROE COUNTY.
f HIS precinct was created in the year 1875 out of
Eagle, Fountain and Bluff. It lies in the
northern part of the county, and embraces
in geographical area portions of township 1
south, range 10 west, and township 2 south,
ranges 10 and 11 west. The population, census
of 1880, was 5G8. The surface, generally^
is elevated and broken. Drainage is afforded
by Fountain creek and Andrews' run, a tributary flowing
west. There is an abundance of lime rock along both these
streams, and of sandstone along the latter.
Attica, a station on the St. Louis and Cairo R. R., which
extends north and south through the eastern part of the pre-
cinct, is a convenient shipping point. The inhabitants at
present are principally German and of German descent.
They speak the English language as well as that of their
native tongue. It is a subject worthy of remark, that while
the German builds his residence of brick, the pioneer or his
descendant occupies the primitive log dwelling. He adheres
to it apparently with an attachment not unlike that evinced
by the Indian for the game-haunted hillside and ravine.
There are two public schools in the precinct, one in the
448
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
town of New Hanover, and one a mile and a-half north-
east of it. ,
The oldest permanent settlement in what is now New
Hanover precinct, was made in the northern part by Jacob ',
Judy, in the year 1794. Jacob Judy was a very ancient
and respectable pioneer in Illinois. He came and settled in 1
Kaskaskia in the year 1788. He was born in Switzerland,
and immigrated to the United States with his parents when
he was three years old. He married in Frederick county,
Maryland. In the year 1786 he and his family descended
the Ohio river to Kentucky. On the river, at the mouth of
the Scioto, he heard the Indians making noises to decoy him
to land, but he kept straight on. He had but one man with
him besides his family. His daughter, Nancy Judy, then
eighteen years old, steered the boat, while her father, her
brother, Samuel Judy, and the hired man, rowed the craft
with all possible speed by this dangerous section of the
river. He remained two years in Kentucky, near Louis-
ville, and descended the Ohio in a flat boat. He was forced
up Cash river, in the present county of Alexander, for pro-
tection from the Indians, and remained there for seven weeks,
until a boat could come from Kaskaskia to his relief. He
resided in Kaskaskia four years, and then moved in 1792,
to New Design. In 1794 he settled at his mill and died
there in 1807. Judy worked at his trade in Illinois, and
accumulated considerable property. He possessed a strong
mind, with much enterprise and energy. Samuel Judy, his
only son, came with his father to Illinois in the year 1788,
and became a very conspicuous and enterprising citizen.
He married into the Whiteside family and settled in Goshen
in 1801*. Judy's mill stood on Gilmore, formerly called
Judy's creek, where the St. Louis and Cairo Railroad
crosses that stream south of Columbia village, in section 34,
township 1 south, range 9 west. It was an overshot water-
mill, and the first in Monroe county. In the early part of
the present century it was patronized by the upper colonies,
including the Goshen settlement. George Valentine also
had a water mill on the stream west of Judy's at an early
day.
With a few exceptions the territory of New Hanover was
not early settled. Seth Converse settled on the S. W. i of
section 8, a mile and a half south of New Hanover as early
as 1814 or '15. He established a tannery, which was in oper-
ation as early as 1820. William Bradshaw settled in section
8 on a property adjoining that of Converse. John Hender-
son settled in section 8 on Fountain creek. A portion of
his place was afterward occupied by McKendrick Moore,
who had a saw mill on Fountain creek. Jordan Johnson,
about the year 1818, married Susanna Lock and settled on
the N. E. i of section 8, Township 2 South, Range 10 West.
Mrs. Johnson is still living in the precinct at the age of
eighty-four years. Abraham Neff, about the year 1820, set-
tled on Fountain creek. Henry Imon was an early settler
on Bond creek in section 18, Township 2 south, range 11,
west. One Osborn was among the early settlers on Andrews'
run. He was in search of silver, and in pursuance of his
object blasted some ten or twelve feet into the solid rock.
• From Reynolds' Pioneer History.
John Vanarsdal was also an early settler. Hiram Whiteside
was born in Columbia precinct. About 1825 he married
Delila Kidd and settled on the S. W. * of the N. E. i of
section 8, Township 2 south, range 10 west. This was his
home for life. Mrs. Whiteside is still living at the age of
seventy-two, with her son Wi'liam, on the old place. As
early as 1825 Mr. Whiteside followed the trade of shoemak-
ing. The neighbors obtained leather at the tannery of Seth
Converse, and had it made into shoes. This was also, at a
little later date the trade of Elias Clover, who was born near
Harrisonville in 1810. In 1829 he was married to Anna
Kidd and settled on the W. i of section 8, Township 2
south, Range 10 west. His widow survives him at seventy-
one years of age.
John Cloves, a brother of Elias, at a little earlier date,
married a Miss Brownfield, and settled on the N. half of
section 8 John Dulan was a resident on Fountain creek,
near a natural pool of water named Dulan's spring, which
perpetuates his memory. About the year 1830 Robert
Coleman, whose wife was a McRoberts, moved from Colum-
bia precinct, and built a mill at the point where the road
leading from New Haven to Dug Hollow, in the bottom,
crosses Fountain creek in the S. E. quarter of section 7,
township 2-10. John Fischer, of German descent, but an
immigrant from Virginia, a mill- Wright and cabinet maker,
constructed the Coleman mill. He settled on the S. E.
quarter of section 8-, southwest of New Hanover. The
following are the first land entries : Seth Converse, Decem-
ber 3, 1814, entered the S. W. quarter of section 8, 115
acres. September 24, 1816, James B. Moore entered the
W. half of the S. E. quarter of section 9, 80 acres. The
N. E. quarter of section 10, 160 acres, was entered, April 3,
1816, by John Slaughter.
The Germans began immigrating in 1835. In this year
John Martin, with his wife, came from Hanover, Germany,
and settled about two miles east of New Hauover, and there
improved a farm. Ernst Schrader settled one-half mile
south of the village. He came from Hanover and brought
his wife and his son Henry. The latter married and set-
tled on the old homestead. He now lives a little north of
New Hanover. Henry B. Stehr arrived from Hauover,
Germany, in 1839. He settled on the site of the village of
New Hanover, whose founder he became-
VILLAGE OF NEW HANOVER.
This well built hamlet derived its name from Hanover,
Germany, of which Henry B. Stehr, its founder, was a native.
It is situated in the northern part of the precinct on the S.
W. i of the S, E. ^ of section 5, township 2 south, range 10
west. It was platted and surveyed by Hugo Ropiquet,
county surveyor, January 17, 1860. The first house, a
frame dwelling, was built by John Karius about 1815. Mr.
Karius was a tailor, and kept some goods for his own trade.
To these he made additions for the purpose of trade, and
thus founded the first store in the town which was also the
first in the precinct. Not far from the same date Mr. Stehr
built a blacksmith shop which was operated by his son,
Henry Stehr.jr. Charles Mindermann began shoemaking
448A
GARDNER ROLLER MILLS, PROPERTY OF T HOENIGSMARK , COLUMBIA , MONROE CO. ILL
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
449
in 1859. The first saloon was kept by Ernst Koch in 1860.
Charles Mund built a wagon shop in 1861. In 1866,
Michael Hesse built a blacksmith shop, Adolph Springer a
wagon shop and Frederick Rudelof began the manufacture
of brick. The post-office was established March 5, 1875.
The town is well built and manifests considerable life and
enterprise. Jacob Fischer now keeps a general store and a
hotel, and is also the postmaster. Henry Stumph and Wil-
liam Jehlingare blacksmiths. Charles Mund and William
Sibert wagon makers. The shoemaker is Frederick
Schwarze, John Stein is tailor, Louis Lot stone mason and
Henry Beckman carpenter, builder and brick maker.
^l^e^t«S«-
COLUMBIA
MONROE COUNTY.
J^,OLUMBL\ precinct, formerly called Eagle, had
in 1880 a population of 2,242. It occupies the
extreme northern part of the county. The blufl's
that separate the bottom from the upland divide
its territory into two nearly equal areas. The
greater portion of the precinct is in tp. 1 S.,
ranges 10 and 11 W. The northern triangular
part is in tp. 1 X., ranges 10 and II W. Carrel Island, so
named from Samuel Carrel, who was once its owner, contain-
ing about one hundred and fifty acres of land, lies in the Mis-
sissippi, and is a part of Columbia precinct. Drainage and
water supply areaffi)rded by streams and lakes; the latter in
the bottom. The largest of these. Fi-sh and Long lakes, lie in
a line with each other, nearly parallel with the river. The
former, so called from the large quantities of fish that in-
habited its waters, receives through Trumbull and Carr creeks
the greater part of the drainage of the high land. It is a
resort of some importance for lovers of piscatorial sport. In
1857 an outlet from it to the river was formed to prevent
overflow. Hill lake, partly in St. Clair Qounty, is a small
body of water lying in the bottom. The entire territory of
the precinct was originally wooded. The timber in the
bottom was heavy and of different varieties both of hard
and soft wood. The staple production is wheat, although
corn is quite extensively cultivated west of the bluff^. Coal
has been mined to some e.xtent in the vicinity of the town
of Columbia, but is believed not to exist in regular measures.
Limestone rock of an excellent quality for building pur-
poses is quarried near the village, and shipped to St. Louis
and other points. The St. Louis & Cairo R. R. extends
northwestand southeast through its territory, and aff)rds con-
venient shipping advantages. The inhabitants are princi-
pally of German nativity and descent, and the language of
the Fatherland is principally that of the fireside and social
life.
The oldest permanently settled place in what is now
Columbia precinct was Whiteside station, which was estab-
lished by the Flannaries. James Flannary, in 1783, was
killed by the Indians. This was three years prior to the
first decisive Indian war waged against the Americans, in
Illinois. This war began in 1786, and continued till 1795.
The dangers, suflTerings and hardships of the settlers were
57
almost without a parallel. Not least conspicuous am ing
those who shared and endured them, were the Wbitesides.
The original pioneers of that name were Davis, Samuel,
AVilliam and John L., brothers of John D , a cousin of the
latter. William and Mary his wife, in the year 179:5, settled
in section 26, Township 1, south. Range 10, west on the St.
Louis and Waterloo road, a little southeast of Columbia
village. He came to Illinois, as captain of a company
of mounted rangers and immediately began the protection
and defense of the settlers. His eldest daughter, Elizabeth,
the next year after the arrival of the family at the station,
became the wife of John Moore. Their first child Sebas-
tian, was born there in 1795. In this same year. General
John D. Whiteside, youngest issue of William and Mary,
was born. The births of these children are presumably the
first (white children) in the precinct. General Whiteside
was reared at the station, and his early educational advan-
tages were necessarily limited.' Nevertheless he was a man
not only of strength of intellect but of refined tastes. During
his life, he held several official positions of State and Nation-
al importance, and was once tendered the nomination for
governor by the Democratic party, but declined the honor.
President Polk appointed him Commissioner to confer with
the Government of Great Britain relative to complications
that existed, concerning the Illinois State bonds. He held
the rank of Adjutant General, and at the outbreak of the
Mexican war, entered the service and did duty in the work
of organizing and training the volunteer troops. Bolin
Whitesdale was born in North Carolina, in 1717, and came
to Illinois with his father, in 179.3. He grew to manhood at
the station homestead. He was a natural .soldier and .served
asa captain of mounted rangers throughout the war of 1812,
and Black Hawk war. About the year lf<00, he married a
Miss Randall, of St. Clair county. Sarah Whiteside was
born in North Carolina, in 1790, and came with the family
to the station. She married •^ohn F. McColluin. Elvira
Marshall, who resides near Sacramento cit^', California, is
the sole survivor of the family.
The Whitesid.'S and their early connections were born
and raised on the frontiers of North Carolina, and immi-
grated to Kentucky. They had been inured to Indian hos-
tilities and other hardships incident to frontier life from
450
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE, AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
their early years to manhood. The patriarch and leader,
William Whiteside, had been a brave soldier iu the revolu-
tionary war, and was in the celebrated battle of " King's
Mountain." To be a soldier in the battle of King's Moun-
tain is an honor of itself. The Whiteside family were of
Irish descent and inherited much of the Iri h character.
They were warm-hearted, impulsive and patriotic. Their
friends were always right, and their foes always wrong in
their estimation. William erected a fort on the road from
Cahokia to Kaskaskia, which became celebrated as " White-
side's Station." At this station Whiteside raised a large
family of children.*
In 1795, Captain Whiteside gathered to his standard his
small but trusty company : Samuel and William L. White-
side, Samuel Judy, Isaac Enochs, Johnson J. Whiteside and
others, to the number of fourteen, and attacked and killed
a camp of Indians of considerable number, who, the French
at Cahokia had informed him, had assembled at the bluft'in
pursuance ot a meditated attack upon him or his property.
In this battle he was wounded as he supposed mortally. He
fell to the ground, but still exhorted his men to fight bravely.
His son Uel, whose arm was disabled so that he could not
use his gun, examined the wound of his father, and found
that the bullet had not passed through the body, but having
been deflected, was lying near the skin. He took his butcher-
knife and cut it out. The old warrior sprang to his feet and
said: "Boys, I can still fight the Indians The "evil
wind " of this bloody encounter blew fruits of gladness and
good cheer. The captain's sous afterward married the two
accomplished daughters of the Widow Rains, an American
lady iu Cahokia, at whose house they dressed their wounds
From this time forward till 1811, the settlers enjoyed the
blessing of peace and security. But at this date the Indians
again commenced depredations, and Captain Whiteside, was
elected Colonel of St. Clair county militia, and held that
office for many years. After peace with the Indians, he
turned his attention to his farm, at the station, and improved
it. He cultivated a fine apple orchard, which iu days gone
by was quite celebrated, as there were very few orchards in
the country. In 1812, he organized the militia of St. Clair
county, and prepared them for active service. He attended
personally at Camp Russel, near Edwardsville, in carrying
out the military operations in defense of the frontiers. He
died at his residence in the year 1815- He and his wife
were both buried at the station.
A number of improvement claims lie scattered over the
preciuct, indicating permanent settlements, prior to the year
1788. Claim 228, was improved by Jacob Stillman, and
comprises the southeastern portion of the territory of Co-
lumbia, while Claim 2058, improved by Thomas Winn, em-
braces the northwestern part. Claim 501, was improved
by Joseph Lacoutour; claim 408, Robert Watt; claim 505,
Francis Bellew ; claim 487, James Piggott. These claims
lie in the northern part of the precinct, adjoining one
another on the north and south, and embrace the Mississippi
Pluffs throughout their point of extent. Southeast of these
• We briefly note the characteristics of the Whiteside family here, as they
are mentioned at length in the Pioneer Chapter.
and less than a half mile south of Fountain creek, lies claim
G07, improved by Jacob Groats. South of this lie adjoin-
ing claims 521, improved by Nicholas Smith ; 573, Charles
Wood. Claim 571, improved by Leonard Harness, lies in
the western part, and claim 543, improved by t'harles Gill,
some distance south of it. Claim 520, is in the eastern part,
southeast of Columbia, and is the seat of the celebrated
Whiteside Station.
The Wilsons were originally from Maryland. They
moved to Kentucky, and about the year 1800, came from
that State to Illinois. There were three brothers, Otho,
Edward and William. Otho married Elizabeth Biggs, and
settled on section 7, a mile and a-half northwest of Colum-
bia. Here he improved a farm, and lived and died. His
children were Zeborah, Nancy, Edward, William and Sarah.
He served as a soldier in the war of 1812, and also in the
Black Hawk war. Edward married ^"atherine Ryan, and
settled in St Clair county. William married Matilda Wallace,
aiid settled on section 9, three-fourths of a mile northwest of
Columbia. Here he improved a large farm, and made it
his Ijome for life. He served in the war of 1812, and in the
Black Hawk war. His children J. H Elizabeth, Sarah,
Mary, Deborah, Louis M. and George W., are all living
but Mary. J. H., has served the county at difierent limes,
for the period of ten years, as Sherifi', and is the present in-
cumbent of the post-office. William Biggs owned a farm a
little north of Columbia. His advent probably antedated
that of the Wilsons. He kept a place of public entertain-
ment, on the old Kaskaskia road, one half mile north of
Columbia, near a spring of lasting water. This was one of
the first stopping places between Kaskaskia and St. Louis,
and existed as early as 1800.
George Ramsay came from Virginia about the year 1803.
He married Nancy Chance, in 1805, and settled on Fish
Lake iu the bottom. In 1816, he bought land one and a
half miles north of Columbia, of Joseph Ogle. Benjamin
Ogle owned land adjoining, where he resided permanently
and died. The Ogles were from Virginia, with families of
several children and were very old settlers. James Brad-
shaw and his wife, from Kentucky, settled on the S. E. i of
section 35, in 1814. Here he resided for life and died about
1845. His children were, Mabel, Mary, John and Sylvester.
Jacob Neff, was of German descent. In 1814, he settled
on the W. i of the S. W. i of section 25, Township 1, south
Range 11, west. He was a plain, industrious farmer and
had a family of four daughters and two sons, who moved to
Missouri. Mr. Nefi" died on his farm at an advanced age.
Thomas Porter, was a sporting man and lover of horse-
racing. He lived on Fish Lake, in the bottom in 1814. He
died on his farm. Joseph Beaird was a prominent and in-
fluential business man as well as farmer. He settled iu
section 24, Township 1 south. Range 10 west, in 1817, and
became a large laud owner and kept ten or twelve slaves.
Thomas Nelson, in the same year, settled on the N. W. i of
section 26, and built a cabin, still standing, in which he
lived till about 1830. He reared a family of six sons, all
above six feet in stature, and one or two daughters. He
died near Nashville, Washington county. Richard Aklas
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
451
lived on Fish Lake, iu the bottom, some time prior to 1817.
He had a family of several children. Oae, McKanii, a
surveyor, was a large land owner, married Mrs. Sarah Seotti
mother of Levi and George. He lived on Fish Lake, in
the bottom, as early as 1817. Samuel Hill, came from
Virginia and brought a family, and settled (m land he en-
tered, being the W. J of the N. W. i of section 4. He was
an influential man. and became a large land owner, and also
kept a number of slaves. In 1818, he entered land in
section 4, and resided there until his death. Leonard Carr,
a German, lived on the creek that now bears his name,
formerly called by the French, Grand Ris.seau, in section
20 Here he entered land in 1818. He reared a large
family John Divers, came from Baltimore, Maryland,
about 1822, and settled one mile west of Columbia. Mr.
Divers was the owner of slaves He became a successful
and wealthy farmer, and was also interested in milling His
death occurred in Columbia, in 1849. George Divers, his
son, is at present mayor of that town.
William Morgan with a wife and several children, arrived
from Kentucky about the same time. He lived all his life
in the vicinity of Columbia, and died there. James Shep-
herd, about 182G, came to the precinct, with his wife and
two children, and settled in section 2o. Here he improved
a small place and lived a number of years. John Ryan
was a single man, and married Susan Gall. About 182(), he
settled on section 25, township 1 south, range 10 west. He
reared two daughters. His death occurred in Waterloo.
Dr. Shoemaker came to the precinct from New Orleans in
183.3, and settled on the E. 1 of the N W. \ of section 20.
He was educated as a physician, iu Philadelphia. Rev.
Nolan, father of Dr. James Nolan, during his life a promi-
nent and influential citizen of Columbia village, was among
the very first preachers in the precinct. A school was
taught by Levi Piggott in a log house that stood in the tim-
ber near a spring as early as 1817. This spriug still dis-
chargr-s \U waters into Biggs' creek, a little north of Colum-
bia. The Palmier graveyard is the oldest burial place in
the precinct. It was was laid out on the Ogles' estate not
far short of a century ago. The remains of surveyor gen-
eral William Rector lie buried here. The Germans b gan
immigration about ISS-l In this year arrived Robert and
Peter Frierdich, brothers ; Joseph Platz ; John Beckele and
Valentine Jansen, brothers-in-law ; John Pfeifer, John Bohl-
man, Eimer Horner, Daniel Kline and Godleib Huch ar-
rived in 1836. The following are the first land entries :
The estate of N. Jarrott entered May 1, 1815. the fractional
section 31, township 1 north, range 10 west The following
are in township 1 south, range 10 west: A Bradshaw
entered September 7, 1814, the S. W. i of section 24;
Thomas Nelson, February 10, 1817, the E. h of the N. W. i
of section 20; Adalada Perry May 1, 181.5, in the N. W. i
of section 7, one hundred and forty-five and sixty-five hun-
dredths acres; January 24, 1817, Samuel Hill, the W. * of
the N. W. \ of section 4, eighty-one and seventy-four hun-
dredths acres ; January 16, 1818, Edward Wilson, one hun-
dred and four and forty hundredths acres in the S. W. i of
section 9.
TOWN OF C0LI"MB1.\.
It is situated in the northeastern part of the precinct, near
the centre of township 1 south, range 10 west. In size and
importance it ranks second in the county only to Waterloo,
and has a population numbering 1,308. The southeastern
part is the oldest, and was laid out on land of Louis Nolan
in the year 1820. Several ad.litions have been made to
the town, among which was one made by Wilson and Gor
don, near the centre, about 1849. It was surveyed and
platted by John B. Whiteside, but never recorded. The
first building within the corporate limits of the town was a
log cabin that stood southeast of the village proper, on the
west side of, and not far from, the Waterloo road. Charles
Walker taught a school here as early as 1815. And the
building was probably used for this purpose at an earlier
date. A double log house was put up by David Robinson
and used as a dwelling and hotel, probably as early a.s 1825.
About 1828 Robert Coleman built an ox-mill. It is still
standing, repaired and improved, and is doing duty as a
hotel. J. B. Smith and one Steward sold the first goods in
a log building that stood near the mill. Joshua Parker
had the first blacksmith shop. The post-office was estab-
lished as early as 1830, and probably a little earlier About
1840 Philip Smith made beer in a frame brewery building,
still seen in a condition of half dilapidation The Methodist
Episcopal church was built in 1843 at a cost of S600.
About 1865 it was remodeled at a cost of 81,200 It was
originall. designed and used for school as well as church
purposes. It is a frame building 30 by 40 feet The Old
Lutheran church is a brick edifice, and is in size 36 by 44
feet. It was built in 1849, at a cost of S2300. The Evan-
gelical (Lutheran) church was built of brick, in 1850, at a
cost of S2500. The school house appurtenant to the church
is a brick building, and was raised about 1862. School
was maintained in it till five years since. The Methodi-st
church, south, is a brick building, and was erected in 1866,
for a school-house and Masonic hall. Shortly after it was
purchased by the c mgregation, and the second story, which
had been the hall, was converted into an audience room, while
the lower part continued to be used for a public school-
room, and served for that purpose until the present public
school-house was erected.
The (Catholic) Church of the Immaculate Conception is
a handsome brick edifice with sandstone trimmings, and was
built iu 1867, at a cost of 824,000. A.ssociated with it is a
school, taught in the former church, which was built in
1848 or 1849. There is an average daily attendance of
about one hundred pupils, who are under the charge of
three of the Sisters. The priest's house, a two story brick,
was built in 1858 or 1859, and cost about 83,500.
The Giirdnrr Roller Mill was originally built of brick by
John Divers, William H. Gaile, and Stephen Gardner,
about 1835. It was burned in 1844, and was immediately
rebuilt by Mr. Gardner alone In 1856 it again fell a vic-
tim to the flames, and was a second time rebuilt. The pro-
])erty changed hands in 1864, and came into the possession
of Afflick and Phelps. The latter died about a year after
the purchase, and Afflick became the owner. He afterwaril
452
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
sold the properly to Switzer, who owiitd it till 1874, when
it was purchased by Thomas Koeiiigsinark, its present pro-
prietor and operator. It is at the present writing a five
story brick structure, whose foundation is -10 by 70 feet in
area. The floor of the engine and boiler-room is 20 by 65
feet. Above them, on the same foundation, is tbe packing-
room. The mill contains a con}plete roller system, consist-
ing of thirteen sets of rolls, two pairs of middling burrs, six
scalping reels, and sixteen flouring reels, four middling
purifiers, also a bran duster, three flour packer.*, and one
bran packer. The wheat cleaning machine consists of three
wheat brushes, two shakers and two screen reels. The
capacity of the mill is 260 barrels in twenty-four hours.
Shipment is eflected by means of two private switches
connecting with the St. Louis and Cairo Railroad, upon
which the company run their cars. The cooper shop at-
tached turns out from six hundred and fifty to seven hundred
flour barrels weekly.
The Columbia Star Mill was built in 1865, by James and
William Nimerick,at a cost of about S'25,000. It had four run
of burrs, and produced about 150 barrels of flour a day. It
was built of brick, four stories high, on a foundation 40x50.
feet. An addition 20x50 feet was built in 1880, and an-
other, 20x60 feet, in 1882. Its present capacity is three
hundred barrels a day. It has seven run of burrs, three sets
of rolls and twenty reels. The warehouse is of brick, three
stories, and forty-five feet square. Its storage capacity is
fifty thousand bushels of wheat. The cooper shop con-
nected with the mill employs fifteen men, and turns out
three hundred barrels daily. Mr Henry Huch is the pre-
sent proprietor and operator.
The Monroe Brewery is a brick building, erected in 1856,
by John Gundlach at a cost of about $30,000. It is now
occupied by the Klausmann Brewery company, of South St.
Louis. Its annual capacity is six thousand barrels of beer.
Underneath the building there are beer caves, capable of
receiving in storage about 3500 barrels of beer. There is
also a malt house and mineral water establishment con-
nected with the business.
The Public School building was erected in 1876. It is a
handsome brick structure with limestone trimmings, and is
an ornament to the village. It cost about §13,000 ; it con-
tains six school-rooms in which as many schools are taught,
by male teachers. An effort is now being made looking to a
higher and more efficient scholarship. The first new.spaper
in the village, the Gazette, was establishfd February, 1880.
by E. H. Ellis. It had an existence of only five weeks,
The Voice of Monroe was founded by its present proprietor,
Peter W. Baker, May 5, 1880. Ground was broken Oct.
12, 1882, for the new Masonic Hall, now in process of erec-
tion. The building, a brick with limestone trimmings, three
stories and 33x70 feet floor, will cost when completed the
sum of $7000. The third ffoor will be used as a Masonic
and the second as a public hall. The first will be devoted
to business. Within the territorial limits of the village
there is a mineral spring, containing sulphur and magnesia.
Its owner, August T. Weinel, purposes to erect a bath house
in connection with it the following season. The growth
of the village, though not rapid, has been of a substantial
character. The buildings are well constructed, of brick and
limestone rock, and the streets well paved and drained.
The charter of incorporation, approved February 19, 1859,
was granted to the following trustees: Stewart McKee, La-
fayette Warnock, John Gundlach, John Ferkel and John
Jost Officers: President, Stewart McKee; Clerk, H. A.
Boreman ; Treasurer, Johu Ferkel.
PRESENT BUSINESS.
Physicians.— M. G. Nixon, William Rose, William Grip-
penburg, John Pflueger.
Justice. — Lafayette Warnock.
Notary. — Henry Riebeliug.
General Stores. — Henry H. Siemens, Edward Heiligstedt,
Reid &Schuler, John Pfeflfer&Son, Henry Schaiper, Henry
Voges, Frederick Meyer.
Dniff Store.— Wm. Rose, L. E. Seyffardt.
Hamvare, Farminr; Implements and Machinery. — C. Brei-
decker.
lail'irs — John Petera, Henry Beck, Ferdinand Haber-
loch, John Ehret.
Shoe Makers — John Deitrich, Fred'k Herold, Edward
Fiege, J. Fruka.
Harness Makers.— Frank Fahney, Wm. Kremmel, John
Kolb.
Blacksmilhs.— Jacob Lotz, P. W. Miller, William Schaef-
fer, Joseph Ranch, Daniel Kraus, Joseph Wuest, Frank
Riebeling.
TFai/ort J/n^-fr6\— George Schmidt, John Schmidt, Henry
Schmidt, Henry Riebeling, Jacob Schaffenberger.
Carpenters. — Frederick Koch, Joseph Brandt, August
Walhausen.
Milliner — Mrs. Ellen Smith.
Dressmakers — Mrs. Sophie Schneider, Miss Minnie Tim-
mermann.
Livery Stable and Lumber Yard — August F. Weinel.
Hotels. — John T. Angerer, Jacob Weinel.
Boarding Homes. — Jacob Ferkel, John Eichmueller,
Charles Juengling.
Saloons.— F. C. Schneider, Henry Siemens, E. Heilig-
stedt, Henry Reichenbach, Henry Schuerman, John B.
Schmidt, Jacob A. Schmidt, Joseph Vahle, P. C. Schneider.
Cabinet Makers. — Charles Schneider, Frederick Litzen-
berger.
Tinware. — Philip Wilde, Louis Kuehner.
Barbers. — Charles Reis, Louis Ritter, Paul Wilde.
Machinery Agents. — James Warnock, John A. Gray.
Butchers.— J&mes Stephan, Augustus Rohm & Bro., Fred-
erick lUgner.
Cigar Makers — H. Kunz, G. Pentzler.
Post-office.— C- Breidecker.
Jeweler.— 5. Bersche, Max Seybeck.
Brick Yards. — Henry HeuUinghorst, William Danken-
bring.
Bakery. — Philip Kupfl^erschmidt.
Foreman Star Mills Cooper-shop. — James Habermehl.
Foreman Gardner Milk Cooper-shop —Joseph Tolar.
HISTORY OF KANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
453
SOCIETIES.
Columbia Turnverein was chartered May 24, 1866. Its
membership at present numbers 26. Turner's hall, owned
by the society, is its ])lace of meeting.
Columbia Lodge, No. 477, -4 F. li: A. M. was chartered
Oct. 3, 1866. Jan. 6th following was the date of the first
meeting. The names of 61 active members iippear at
present upon its rolls, and it is in a sound linanciiil con-
dition.
The Columbia Siut/iiig Society was organized about 1848.
It became a body corporate by grant of charter August 19,
1671. It has 44 members and meets in Library hall. It
has control of the books (about two hundred volumes)
belonging to the Library Association, which was chartered
about 1870.
(olumbid Lixlyr, No. :i7i>, I). O. 11, was chartere<l in
1875. It has about 75 members, and §900 in the treasury.
The hall in which its meetings take place is held by the
society under a five years' lease.
Mtinroe Lodge, No. 165, A O. U. \f' , was chartered Mar.
■M, 1880. It lias 54 incnibers and S250 in tiie treasury.
■^^^6^^^S^9^^-
BIOGRAPHIES
HON. JOHN T. ANGERER.
JoiinT. Angeker wasborn in Bavaria, Germany, Febru-
ary IGth, 1832. His father Jasper Andrew Angerer was a
farmer. John T. received bis primary education in the
schools of his native country, and after his arrival in this
country attended the schools here for a short time. In the
fall of 1848, be came to America, landing in l^t. Louis,
November 10th, 1848. He there learned the trade of baker
and remained in St. Louis until September 7th, 1856, when
he rimovcd to Columbia, in Monroe county, Illinois. Dur-
ing a part of the time he was in St. Louis, he was engaged
in stearaboating on the upper Mississippi. After he came to
Columbia, prior to engaging in the hotel business, he worked
in the Gardner flouring mills. He continued there for four
years ; then opened a hotel in Mr. Grasse's property and in
1867 bought the property and removed to where he now is,
where he has continued the business of hotel keeping until
the present. Mr. Angerer's house is well known to the
traveling public as a place that is first class in all of its
appointments, and in consequence enjoys a large patronage.
On the 24th of May, 1854, Mr. Angerer was united in
marriage to Miss. Emma Margarita Baumann, a native of
Germany, but a resident of this county since the fourth year
of her age. She was raised in Syracuse, New York. The
family subsequently removed West to St. Louis, where her
marriage to Mr. Angerer took place. By that union there
have been four children, two of whom are living The
names of the latter are Caroline, who is the wife of James
Hart, of Belleville, Illinois. They have two children whose
names are Emma and James. Eva Margarita, married
Julius Breidicktr of Columbia. They have two children
named Amanda and Caroline. ]Mr. Angerer is a member
of the order of A. F. and A. M.,aud was made a mason in
Waterloo Lodge. He is now a member of Columbia Lodge
No. 474. He takes an active interei-t in everything jiertaiu-
ing to the order, and it was through his aid and eflbrts, as a
chairman of the building committee, that the new Masonic
building was projected and brought to a successful comple-
tion. Politically he was a Democrat, until the breaking
out of the war, whm being a strong union man and heartily
in favor of the. early sujipressiou of the rebellion, he joined
the Republican ranks and remained with that political
organization until 1872, when believing that the results had
been attained for which the Republican party had been
called into power, he left it, liberalized and since has voted
the Democratic ticket. In 1880 he was elected by the people
of Monroe as one of the commissioners, and at present is a
member of the Board. Mr. Angerer is a pleasant and
genial gentleman and ])ossesses that rare fiiculty of making
all at home who come beneath his roof.
454
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
/■ ^.(m^^^^-
The Wilsou family is of Scotch-Irish descent. Their ances-
tors on coming to this county settled near Fredericktown,
Maryland Joshua Wilson, the grandfather of John H.,
moved from there to Kentucky, and there died in 1802. He
married Deborah Dorsey, who belonged to an old and well-
known family in Maryland. She died in Kentucky in the
year 1800. They left three children named Otho, Edward,
and William. The latter was the father of John H. He
was born in Washington county, Kentucky, in 1798. In
1804 he accompanied his brothers to Illinois territory. At
the age of twenty -one he married Matilda Wallace, who was
born in Georgia, but the family had settled at an early
period near Harrisonville in this county. By that union
there were eleven children, nine of whom grew to maturity.
John H., the subject of this sketch, was born about one mile
northwest of Columbia, INIonroe county, Illinois, August 8,
1819 His education was obtained in the subscription
schools of his neighborhood, and by a short time in the
schools of Waterloo. During the time that he was attend-
ing the school in Waterloo, he received the appointment of
Deputy Sheriff, under John Morrison, the father of Hon.
W. R. Morrison. He held the office of deputy for fifteen
months, then returned to the farm. Soon after Mr. Wilson
married, and then he rented a farm near Columbia, and re-
mained on it three years, then moved to a farm south of the
before-mentioned place, and there he continued to reside
until the present, except a short time when he was sheriff,
when he resided in Waterloo. In 18.56; he engaged in
merchandising in Columbia, in which he continued for
four or five years, and a short time before the war was also
in the milling business.
In May, 1844, Mr. Wilson was united in marriage to
Miss Sarah Morgan, by which union there were seven
children. All died young with the exception of Joshua,
who is now a young man, grown Politically, Mr. Wilson
is a Democrat, and has always been active in the support of
its principles. His zeal in the cause of his party, and his
worth and character as a man and citizen, has received
public recognition at various times. In 1846 he was first
elected sheriff of the county, and re-elected in 1848, without
opposition. He was under the law ineligible in 1850, but in
1852 he was elected for the third time. In 1870 he was
elected a member of the Constitutioual Convention that
framed the present organic laws of the State, and in con-
nection with his colleague, Hon. Geo. Wall, represented the
counties of Monroe, Randolph, and Perry. In 1878 he was
again elected sheriff, and re elected in 1880, and again
elected for four years in 1882, and at present is discharging
the duties of his position in a manner that gives complete
satisfaction to his many friends. Mr. Wilson's private and
454B
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
455
public life has been without a reproach, and his honesty and
integrity has never been called in question. The family be-
long to that heroic band, the pioneers of the west. Here,
Mr. Wilson was born and reared, and here he hopes to live
until the " dread summons comes to join that innumerable
caravau that is moving to the pale realms " that lie be3'ond
this world.
THOMAS KCENIGSMARK
Is one of the enterprising and substantial business men of
Columbia. He was born in Bohemia, October '2d, 1835.
He is the son of .folin and Catherine (Fait) Kffiuigsmark.
The parents came to America and settled in Columbia,
where the fatlierdied in 1864. The wife and mother of Thomas
still survives, and at j)reseut is a resident of Columbia.
Thomas received his education in his native country. At
the age of fourteen, in company with others, he emigrated
to America, and came direct to St. Louis, landing there
in the spring of 1849. In 1850, Mr. K. went to New
Orleans, and there followed clerking and the tailoring
business. He remained in New Orleans until 1855, when
he came up the river to Illinois and settled in Columbia,
and there clerked in a general store. In 1863, he engaged
in merchandizing, in which he continued actively engaged
until 1870, when he was compelled to retire from active
pursuits on account of ill health. He remained out of
business until 1874, when ho purchased the old Gardner
Mills and became a manufacturer. He has continued in
the milling business until the present. Under his possession
and management, the mill has undergone many changei',
and various injprovement-? all tending to make it first-class
in every respect. In 1882, it was practically rebuilt and
the " roller " system introduced.
In April, 1858, Mr. Ka-nigsmark was united in marriage
to Miss Theresa Geiger. She is a native of Germany, but
came to America with her parents while yet in her infancy.
By that union there have been ten children, four of whom
are still living, whose names are Jacob, Louisa, John and
Mary. Jacob married Miss Dora Roever, and have one
child named Thomas KaMiigsmark. Louisa is the wife of
Edward Kuehner. Both Mr. and Mrs. Ka^nigsruark are
members of the Catholic church. Politically Mr. K. was
originally a Democrat, and cast his first vote for Stephen A.
Douglas. During the war he was a strong Union man, and
in favor of the speedy suppression of the rebellion and the
restoration of the government and union. This feeling
naturally led him into the Republican party, and he has
remained with it to the present He, however, is not a
partisan that sees no good in any men or measure?, unless
belonging to or originated by his own party. He possesses
sufficient independence to vote for men and measures, which
will redound to the advantage of the whole country. Prac-
tically Mr K. has been the architect of his cwn fortune.
He started in life unaided, but by the exerci.se of good
management, industry and economy, has succeeded in mak-
ing a comfortable competency, and at the same time has made
for himself a character for honesty, integrity and honorable
dealing with his fellow-men.
WILLIAM ROSE, M. D.
The subject of this sketch is the leading and representa-
tive physician and surgeon of Columbia and vicinity ; he
is of German birth, born in Clausthal, Hanover, Germany,
Feb. 12, 1848 ; he is the third child in a family of six chil-
dren ; his parents, Frederick and Dorothea Ro.se, were natives
of the same place in Germany, where the father carried on the
manufacture of furniture. William received a good education
in the schools of his native country, and at the age of thirteen
years came to America in company with his sister; they
settled in St. Louis with their uncle. Dr. Edward Rose, a
prominent physician of that place; there Mr. Rose spent
several years in the College of the Christian brothers; he
then entered a drug store, and learned the drug trade, and
spent three years in obtaining a thorough knowledge of
pharmacy. He determined to adopt the ])rofes!-iou of medi-
cine as the business of his life, and, with this idea in view,
entered the office of his uncle. Dr. Edward Rose, and com-
menced the study. He was industrious in his habits, and
made rapid progress, and soon entered the Missouri Medical
College and took one full course. He then came to Illinois
and settled in Columbia in Monroe county, and commenced
the practice ; the date of his arrival in the county was in the
spring of 1869. Here, by close attention to business, and the
thorough knowledge of his ))rofcssi()n, he soon built up a
large and lucrative practice. In 1878, under the operation of
a statute providing for the regulation of the practice of
medicine in the State of Illinois, and which required of all
pbysicians to have a diploma from scmie standard Medical Col-
lege, or have jiracticed ten years preceding the passage of the
Act in the State, was constrained to enter the Medical College
at Keokuk, Iowa, from which insti ution he graduated in
the following spring. He returned to Columbia, and con-
tinued the practice, which has gradually increased from his
first arrival here until the present. When he first came to
Columbia he engaged in the drug business in connection
with his practice, in which he still continues. Dr. Rose be-
longs to the regular school of medicine, and is of the pro-
gressive kind that keeps pace with all the discoveries that
are daily being made in the science of medicine. On the
12th of March, 1869, he was happily united in marriage to
Miss Lena, daughter of Stephen and Magdalena (Wiess)
Frockman. Mrs. Rose was born in St. Louis, Missouri.
By that union there are six children — three sons and three
daughters; their names in the or er of their birth are:
Frederick, Amelia, William, Ida, Herman and Louise Rose.
Dr. Rose is an honored member of the A. O. U. W., and be-
longs to Lodge No. 165, and also of the Harrngari Order, No.
37G, Columbia, Illinois. Politically he is an active Republi-
can, and votes that ticket in all general elections. He takes
an active part in the cause of education, and has been a mem-
ber of the School Hoard for the past four years. In conclu-
sion, it may be said of Dr. Rose that he has been very suc-
cessful in his chosen profession. He came to Columbia
almost unknown, if not quite so, and in the face of much
opposition built up an extensive practice. His success is
attributable to several causes, chief of which are his close
attention to business and his skill as a physician.
PRAIRIE DU LONG.
MONROE CO.
RAIRIE DU LOXG precinct, so
named from the prairie that con-
stitutes an important part of its ter-
ritory, lies in the extreme eastern
part of the county, and by the cen-
sus of 1880 had a population of
1480. Its area embraces the whole
of Township 3, Range 8, together
with a strip of territory lying be-
tween the Kaskaskia and the west boundary line of town-
ship 3, Range 7, and also sections 1,12, 13, 24 and 25 of
Township 3, Range 9 and section 36 and oue-half of section
25 of Township 2, Range 9. Most of its territory was- orig-
inally wooded, and the timber was quite heavy along the
streams. Prairie du Long and Prairie du Round (hybrid
terms of French and English) so called on account of their
shape, were open areas. The former has a length of about
nine miles, half of which lies in St. Clair county. Its
width is about three and a half miles Prairie du Round is
about three miles in circumference, and lies a little south-
west of the central part of Township 3, Range 8. A small
portion of Twelve-mile Pra-rie lies in the northeastern part.
Horse prairie extends a short distance into the precinct from
the south. The surface, aside from the prairies, is mainly
broken, although even in the timbered parts, there is much
bad land. The timber, of which there is still a considerable
amount, consists of the difterent varieties of oak and hickory,
maple, ash, pecan and black walnut. Wheat is the staple,
though corn and oats are largely grown. The principal
streams are the Kaskaskia river, Richland and Prairie du
Long creeks. Attention is paid to the subject of good roads,
and Richland and Prairie du Long creeks are spanned by
iron bridges, the former on the state road extending from
Nashville, Washington county, to Harrisonville on the
Mississippi, passing through Freedom, and the latter on the
Kaskaskia and St. Louis road
The earliest permanent settlement was made in the year
1802 by John Pulliam, from Horse prairie, a place described
in the chapter on Red Bud precinct. Pulliam improved a
farm on Prairie du Long, a little north of Richland creek.
Among the settlers of about this date were three brothers,
John, James and Richard Hix. They settled in section 31,
Township 3, Range 8. They were owners of farms, but were
especially hunters and Indian fighters. One of the brothers
was in pursuit of game, when he and an Indian simulta-
neously discovered each other dodging behind a tree for pro-
tection. Hix outwitted the red skin by a little device. He
placed his hat on the ramrod of his rifle, and with mock cau-
tion exposed it to the Indian's view. He, supposing that Hix's
456
head was in the hat, pierced it with a bullet, and then started
forward for his scalp, when the latter stepping from his
retreat, shot him dead. Two brothers, John and Modglin
Wright, lived on adjoining farms in section 28. They were
farmers and professional hunters.
A family named Faraday, were among the very earliest
settlers in the precinct They were several sons, and their
mother, and lived on the E. i of section 29. Tljey neither
worked nor hunted, yet fared more sumptuously than their
pioneer neighbors. Samuel Winn, may also be referred to
as among the early settlers. Matthew and John Donahoo,
lived on section 10. James Lacy, an early settler, owned a
considerable quantity of land in section 16.
About 1810, James and Robert Smith, from Tennessee,
arrived. They brought families with them, and settled on
section 36. James had two sons, Booker and Ransom.
Robert had one son, Henry. James was a lover of good
horses, and had a valuable mare, which he prized very
highly, not only on account of her personal good qualities,
but also because she gave promise of profit. One night he
heard the noise of wolves, perceptibly in great numbers,
and felt assured that his mare was a victim, but though a
brave man he dared not venture to her assistance. In the
morning her carcass and that of her filly lay near each
other. One evening, one of the Smiths shot a wolf ; imme-
diately he heard a wolf 'call,"and then in succession he heard
others, and soon found that he was surrounded by them.
He climbed a small tree that stood near and was obliged to
remain in captivity all night. The wolves used their teeth
with diligence and energy, but did not succeed, in felling
the tree, as Smith feared they would. Major Starkey, an
early settler in Prarie Du Long, was a soldier in the war of
1812. He was a man of gentlemanly bearing, of fine phys-
ique, and of standing in the community. Henry Hill, one
Slater and one Scott, were among the early settlers on
Twelve Mile prairie. Hill settled in the N. E. i of section
2, and Slater and Scott in the immediate vicinity. Their
descendents, as those also of most of the other early settlers
in the precinct, have been displaced by a population mainly
German. John Morrison, was of the Morrison family that
played so important a part in mercantile affairs at Kaskas-
kia, at an early day. At this city he was born. He mar-
ried a Ralls, and settled on Richmond creek, two or three
miles above its mouth. Here some time prior to 1821, he
had a water mill. He moved to Kaskaskia and subsequently
returned and settled on the Philip Sauer place, in section 20.
He held the office of Sheriff and Judge of the county court,
for a number of years. " Morrison's bridge," that spans
Prairie Du Long creek, bears his name. He was the father
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND FURRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
457
of Col. Wm. R. Morrison, at the present writing a member
of Congress. His death occiirreil at Waterloo. Ahrahaiu
McMurtice came from South Carolina, in I'^H or '1.5, anil
settled in the forks of Richland and Prairie Du Long creek.
Here he improved some land, but did not remain long. Henry
Null, a German, and his wife, came as early as 1815, and
settled southeast of Freedom, on the N. E. 1 of section 14.
At this place he made his home for life.
The most important early settlement was formed by the
English Catholics, in the northwestern part of Township '■),
Range 8. The central spirit of this settlement was Thonuis
Winstanley. He lived just acros s the line of Monroe, in
St Clair county, and is mentioned here becau.se the settle-
ment bears his name and because of his influence in its
affairs. He was a raau of means and a devoted Catholic,
and a center of attraction for those of his niitionality and
of his faith. This English settlement at that early day
possessed most of what there was of culture and refinement
in the territory of Prairie Du Long precinct. St. Augus-
tine Church and the school that at an eirly day was taught
near it, -symbolized their devotion to piety and to learning.
William Threlfall was a native of Lancashire, England.
On his arrival in Illinois, he landed at Kaskaskia. He re-
mained here but a short time, and then with his wife and
children came to the Winstanley settlement in 181!*, and
located on the N. E. i of section 6, where he improved a
good farm. Mr. Threlfall was a patriotic citizen and served
his country in the Black Hawk war. He had nine children,
John, Edward, Peter, James, William, Jane, Nancy, Mary
and Elizabeth. John was a man grown when he came.
He married Margaret Thompson, and settled on unimproved
land in section 0. He died of cholera in 1S4!I. In the
year 1819, Edward Newsham, also an Englishman and his
wife arrived in the settlement. He located south of St.
Augustine Church on section 6. He never had any children
to advance the settlement, but was a pronunent, influential
and useful man in the community of which he formed a
part. John Bamber, arrived in 1821. He was a native of
Yorkshire, England, and in 1817, came to Maryland, where
he remained two years. He then set out for Illinois with
his wife and eight children, James, Thomas, William, John,
Ann, Mary, Betsy and Ellen. He was also accompanied by
five brothers, Edward, John, Thomas, William and Richard
Coop, who came from England to Maryland in 1819. De-
scending the Ohio in a flat boat they landed at Shawnee-
town, where they remained for a period of two years, Wil-
liam Coop having in the meantime died. In 1821, the
Bamber family and Thomas Coop left Shawneetown, and
came overland to what is now Prairie Du Long precinct.
On their way to the Winstanley settlement they stopped at
the house of John Morrison on Richland creek. Mr. Bam-
ber settled on the N. i of section (!, land now owned by Dr.
Kemp, a mile and a half west of Freedom. Here he im-
proved a good farm and ended his days.
James Bamber married shortly after his arrival and set-
tled in St. Clair county. Thomas also settled in that county
about 1830. William is living in Harrisonville. John,
Ellen, Ann and Mary are dead. Betsy resides in Cali-
58
fornia. Thomas Coop married Ann Dickinson, and settled
in section 1, township '■'>, range 9, where he still lives at the
age of 77. Mr. Coop is a wcll-knowir citizen, and has been
a useful man in his community. John Gregson immigrated
from England in 1819. His family consisted of his wife
and three children, William, George and James. William
and George died very young. Their names were afterward
given to two after-born brothers. There was also a daugh-
ter, Eliza. Mr. Gregson settled on section 19, where he be-
came quite a successful farmer. James Ibisou and his wife,
about the year 1820, arrived from J^ancashire, England,
and located in the Winstanley settlement, in section !>.
Here he improvtd a good farm. His children were named
James, Thomas and Ann. He died in Fort Smith, Arkan-
sas. Zopher Williams and his brother Arthur were settlers
of the year 1^20. The former located on the N. i of section
5. The Winstanley settlement is, at present, a mere name
for a thing that is past. The English .settlers have become
scattered, and those of another nationality have taken their
place. Several of the families went to California. About
the year 1820, Henry Noah, a Kentuckian, who married
Eliza Robbi.5on, settled in Horse Prairie, sooth of Richland
creek. He was a teacher, and probably the first in the pre-
cinct. To the same date and locality may be referred, the
Guthrie?, a family from one of the Eastern States. The
children were John, ('harles, James, Samuel, Joseph, Catha-
rine and Nancy. James was a teacher. He married Nancy
Hurlstone.
The Germans began to arrive about theyearlSoO. Piiilip
Hen.singer was among the first. On his arrival from Ger-
many he had a wife and two or three children. He settled
in section 1"). Henry and Catharine Frick, and their chil-
dren, Conrad, John, George, William, Charles, Ernst, Jacob
and Catharine, came from Hesse Ca.ssel to St. Clair county
in 183;>, and thence to Monroe in 1835. The family located
about two miles south of the town of Freedom. The father
and mother are dead. Four of the brothers arc living here.
John Ruht arrived in Twelve Mile Prairie in 1833. He
came from Hesse Darmstadt with his wife and four children,
and settled on the N. E i of section 1(!. In the same year.
Christian Steigers from Beyern, Germany, with his wife and
five children, four sons and a daughter, .settled on the E. 1
of section 13 in Twelve Mile. In the same prairie, on the
N. E. i of section 14, Conrad Moore settled in 1835. He
and his family, his wife and two children, were from Hesse
Darmstadt. John Weaver, also a German, settled about
the centre of section 13 in 1836. Timothy Dunn and his
wife Ann Flood were natives of Ireland, married in New
York city, and came licie in 183)8. The first land entered
in this precinct was by Henry Neill, the N. W. i of section
14, 160 acres entered August Uth, 1814.
TOWN OF FREEDOM.
The town was laid out on land of Theodore Hilgard. It
was platted and surveyed by Thomas Singleton, county
surveyor, December 18, 1840. It stands on the N. W.
(luarter of section 4, T. 2 S., R. 10 W. In 1849, Jacob
Frick built the first house. The same year he opened a
458
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRT COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
stock of goods. The Star flouring mill was built in 1863,
by Keho and Thieltges. In 1864, it was purchased by
George Frick, the present owner and operator. The build-
ing is of frame, and contains four run of burrs with a
capacity of eighty barrels a day. The school-house is a
brick building, erected in 1865, at a cost of $1,300. The
Freedom Library Association was organized as early as
1867. It was chartered, December 9, 1872. It has five
hundred and seventy volumes of books, worth about |2,500.
PRESENT BUSINE.SS.
General Stores. — Henry Gambach, Adam Roth, Joseph
Klinkhardt.
Hotels. — Jacob Thum, K. Y. Roxroth.
Saloon. — Jacob Heuvies.
Blacksmiths. — Lenhardt Weis, John Grib, Joseph Meyer-
cough.
Wagon Makers. — Sepbastian Jakel, Jacob Wagner.
Shoemaker. — Henry Diefenbach.
Harness Maker. — Henry Reiameyer.
Justice and Notary Public. — H. J. Frick.
Postmaster. — Henry Gambach.
BIOGRAPHY.
JACOB THUM
Was born in St. Gallen, Switzerland, March 11th, 182i).
His parents were Jacob Thum and Francisco Thum. They
came to America in 1842, landing in New Orleans. Their
objective point was Highland, by way of the city of St.
Louis, but on the way thither by boat they were " frozen in,''
below Cairo, where they remained two months. From here
part of the company, including the subject of this sketch,
walked to Belleville, St. Clair county. Here Jacob Thum,
Jr., hired out to a farmer living near Shiloh at $36 per
annum. He remained with his employer three years, when
he again engaged his services to Dr. Reis, first at $5, then
at $7 per month. In the meantime his father, whose business
in the old country was that of a potter, secured a farm and
he returned to live and labor with him.
Jacob Thum, Jr., was married to Josephine Zeller. a
native of Switzerland, in Belleville, Nov. 1, 1852. The
following year she died of cholera, and Jacob commenced
trading. Prior to his wife's death he had spent a few months
in Central city engaged in the grocery trade, but thinking
to do better, exchanged his business for a place in Belleville.
He was married to his present wife, Kuni Gundi Schoen-
bein, Nov. 5th, 1855. By her he has three children. In
1859 he located in Red Bud, where his father died, Jan.
31st, 1861. In 1864 he moved to Freedom, where he has
since resided. Mr. Thum is a business man of energy ; he
manages a fine farm and at the same time keeps a hotel fur
the accommodation of the traveling public. In politics he
takes great interest, and can generally be found a delegate in
local political conventions. His children are Anna Francis,
born May 4, 1858, and now the wife of Joseph Klunkhardt ;
Jacob, born July 1st, 1859, died Jan. 31st, 1861 ; Elizabeth,
born Jan. 1.3, 1865, and Emma Eva, born June 15, 1867.
RUM A
RANDOLPH CO.
^N the northwest part of Randolph county, south
of Red Bud, lies the precinct of Ruma. The
\S^ Kaskaskia river flows along its eastern boundary.
T^'^s Brcwerville adjoins it on the south, Prairie du
Rocher and a portion of Monroe county on the
west. The land is elevated, divided into ridges
and bluffs in the western portion, and rolling and level in
the central part. It is well watered by Horse creek flowing
from the northwest in a southeasterly direction, where it
empties into the Kaskaskia. Camp's creek waters the south-
ern portion, and is also a tributary of tiie Kaskaskia. Horse's
creek derives its name from Horse prairie, and Camp's creek
from a family of the name of Camp. The bottom lands of
these creeks are rich with alluvial deposits, and admirably
adapted to grass. They are well timbered. The streams
are tortuous, with blufl'y banks, and limestone beds at fre-
quent intervals. The soil of the ridge lands are adapted to
wheat. There were settlements made in this precinct as
early as 1782, on the authority of one of the oldest settlers.
Two brothers named Ichabod and (Jeorge Camp made im-
provements on the creek called Camp's creek. These men
seemed to be rovers, and moved shortly after they came to
the precinct to Missouri, where a place is called Camp
Spring after them. Their name has been given to one creek
and two springs.
Paul Harelston settled near the moulh of Camp's Creek in
1802. Not much can be gathered from any reliable source
respecting him, except that he was quite a prominent man
and for some time held the office of sheritt' of the county.
In 1808, Mr. Henderson, from South Carolina, settled op-
posite Evansville on the west side of the Kaskaskia. Wil-
liam Nelson came to Randolph county in 1812 or '14. He
settled on Horse creek near where the village of Ruma now
stands, and erected a horse mill and a small distillery It
was conducted on a limited scale, there being only one small
copper still. He became a prominent man, held the office
of county commissioner, and was justice of the peace for a
long time. He was married in South Carolina to Ellen
Gray, by whom he had five sons, John G., Isaac, William,
Robert and James, and two daughters, Eliza and Mary.
Eliza married William McBride and Mary married John
Stevenson, an old settler from Ohio. The oldest settler now
living in Randolph county is James O'Hara. the sou of
Henry O'Hara, who came with his father originally from
Frederick county, Maryland, where he was born November
8, 1799. His father's name was Henry, and he was married
in Maryland to Margaret Brown, by whom he had ten
children, Mary, Amelia, Catharine, James, Thomas, Samuel,
Henry, Sarah, John and Charles, all of whom were born in
Maryland except Charles, who was born in Kentucky. Of
these, four sons are still living. James and Henry live in
Randolph county, John in Wisconsin, and Charles in Cali-
fornia. The father of these sons first moved from Maryland
to Nelson county, Ky. in 1811, from thence to Belleville, St.
Clair county. 111., in 1817, and the succeeding year, 1818,
to Randolph county, when he located in section 5, one mile
.southwest of Ruma village. When they first settled in that
locality, their nearest neighbor was two miles north, their
next three miles south, and the next six miles, on the Amer-
ican Bottom. William Nelson, spoken of, was the nearest
neighbor. Joseph Orr, and his brother Thomas, were three
miles off.
Henry O'Hara and his wife died on the old place. She,
on July 25th, 1825, and he, June 18th, 1826. James
O'Hara, is the oldest son of Henry O'Hara spoken of. He
was about 17 years old when, with his father he came to
Randolph county, Illinois. He had to depend for his edu-
cation on what he picked up here and there. The county
was a wilderness, there were plenty of wolves and game, but
no school-houses. He followed his father's occupation,
farming. In 1828, on the 26th of August, he was married
to Miss Elizabeth Threlfall, a daughter of William Threl-
fall, who came from England, about 1820, and settled in
Jlonroe county, where Mr. O Hara first met and was married
to her. As a result of this marriage there were born twelve
children. The wife of this venerable patriarch, diedNovem.
ber 5th, 1876, at the age of 66, having been born in 1810.
The father of James O'Hara was quite an extensive land
owner. In 1818, Joseph and Thomas Orr came from Vir-
ginia and located in the O'Hara settlement. Joseph died in
Sparta, and Thomas went to Pike county, Illinois. Some
of the children live at Sparta. John Brewer who came
at the same time from Kentucky, brought along six sons,
Thomas, Felix, Vincent, George, Pius and John, all of whom
filled important places in the estimation of their neighbors.
John was once county commissioner, and a justice of the
peace. The father had in all ten children, all of whom are
now dead. He lived four miles .southwest of Mr. O'Hara.
James Whalen, emigrated from Maryland to Kentucky, and
thence to the O'Hara settlement in 1818. He was the
father of Mrs. Julia Whalen, who married Bartholomew
Hay, who located on Horse Prairie. Francis E. Harrell,
living on section 21, is the grandson of Benedick Harrell,
who came from Maryland to Kentucky, in 1795. In the
year 1818, he came thence to Randolph county, and located
in the O'Hara settlement where he died about 1830. His
wife's name was Alice Payne, and they were married in
Maryland. Eight children were the result, Cornelius, Ber-
459
400
HISTORY OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
naril, Benedict, Thomas, Henry, Robert, Mary and Jane,
all of whom are dead. Benedict and Henry came out to
the country with their father. Cornelius, the oldest son, was
born in ]\Iaryland iu 1793, and was about two years old
■when the family came to Kentucky. In 1815, while in
Washington county, Kentucky, he married Elizabeth
Gough, daughter of John B. Gough, an old Revolutionary
soldier, born in Maryland, who came to Randolph county,
Illinois, in 1832, and remained one year, whence he went to
Missouri.
Francis E. Harrell was twelve years old, when his father
came to Randolph Co., and is living on the same place
■where his father located.
Thomas Mudd was born in Maryland. His ancestors
were of the Lord Baltimore party. Some of them took part
in the Revolutionary war. He married in Maryland a lady
named Johanna Carrick, or Cariev, whose ancestors were
also participants in the Colonial struggle for independence.
A short time after his marriage, Thomas Mudd moved to Ky.
and located in Spencer county, where he was a pioneer and
settled down to farm life. He had a family of nine children
by his marriage, seven sons and two daughters, whose names
were James, Edward, Francis, Joseph, Felix, John and
Thomas H. Teresa and Lucreta. James, the oldest son, came
out from Kentucky one year before his father left. He was
born in Maryland. He was married in Ky., to Amelia
O'Hara, a sister of James O'Hara before mentioned. He
raised a family of six sons and three daughters, all of whom
grew to maturity except one son. Their names were William,
Henry, Felix, Charles, Leo T. and Pius; Margaret A-
Harriet and Eliza L. all are still alive but Pius, and they
all live in Randolph county 111., but Felix, who went to
Texas, and still lives there. James Mudd, the father of
these children came, as was stated, to 111., one year before
his father Thomas came out. It was the year 1818. He first
settled on the blufi", N. East of Prairie du Rocher. William
Mudd was the eldest. He was born April 30th, 1816, and
was the only son born in Kentucky, all the rest being born
in Illinois. William remained on the farm at home, until he
was 21 years of age. Mr. Mudd has always been an active
promoter of public interests. In 1857 he was chosen as a
candidate for the office of As.sooiate Judge of Randolph Co.
Alter serving four years, he was again elected in 1861, and
served another term. He is at present enjoying home life
in his large farm seven miles from Red Bud, on section 30,
Kuma precinct.
The Simpson family were also among the early settlers in
this township. They are descendants of an old English family
who emigrated to America with Lord Baltimore on account
of religious persecution. William Pregley, was born in
Spencer county, Kentucky, April 25th, 1818. His grand-
father, Simon Pregley, emigrated from the State of Pennsyl-
vania at an early period to Ky., where Abraham Pregley,
the father of William, was born about 1796. He was mar-
ried in Ky. to Susan Smith, and in 1833 moved to Randolph
county, and located in Township 5, Range 8, about 4 miles
west of Evansville.
John Vinson came from Kentucky to Illinois in 1831,
and settled in Christian county. He took part in the Black
Hawk war. He moved to Randolph county in 1845, and
settled on section 22. He was married to Mary Ann
Simpson (sister of James D.), in Sangamon county, in the
year 1833.
John M. Baker was an old settler, who came from New
York to Randolph county about the year 1834; he was a
brother of David J. Baker, of Kaskaskia. He died at Ruma
iu 1855.
Michael Donohoo was married in Kentucky about 1819
to Julia Welch. Iu 1826 he came to Randolph county, and
settled where the village of Ruma now stands on section 33.
James M. Kennedy was born March 17, 1795, in the State
of Vermont. He came to Randolph county, Illinois, and
was married there in 1828 to Sarah D<idge. He helped to
build a house for John M. Baker, which was the first build-
ing erected in Ruraa. They hauled the logs from Horse
Creek Bottom, as there was no timber near large enough.
He had by his marriage nine children.
James O'Hara, first mentioned, is a grand old patriarch,
whose hair and beard are white as snow. His memory at
the age of 83 is somewhat remarkable: he can give the
dates of all the early events connected with his family his-
tory, and the names of all the old settlers. He remembers
the location of St. Patrick's Church, half a mile from his
residence ; it was originally constructed of logs and was built
in 1828 Its history is as follows: His father, before his
death, made a will devising one hundred acres of his land
for the use of the Catholic Church, and on this land the first
building was erected as stated. About 1853 the present
brick edifice was built. Father John Gifford was the pastor.
There have since been added a fine brick convent, a priest's
house and buildings for school purposes. Rev. Father
Vocht is the present pastor, and the church is in a flourish-
ing condition.
Mr. O'Hara also remembers Nelson's hor.se mill and dis-
tillery, and relates how the neighbors used to get their jugs
filled ; and, putting them in one end of the bag, placed their
grist from the mill into the other end, — and, setting astride,
ride home, happy in the prospect of a good time.
RUMA VILLAGE.
Ruma village is located about four miles south of the
town of Red Bud, on sections 4, 5, 32 and 33. It is bisected
by the township line running east and west. It was laid
out in the year 1854. Three acres were sold by William S.
Hughs, a brother of Felix. This laud was sold to the heirs
of John M. Baker, an old settler before mentioned. Town
lots were laid ofl^ by the Baker heirs and the brothers Dono-
hoo, Mathew and Thomas ; and the village grew apace. In
the year 1872 a large four story brick flouring mill was
erected. Albert W. Baker, John Heck and Thos. Donohoo
were the leaders in the enterprise. The mill, after a period
of varied success, ultimately passed into the hands of its
present enterprising owners, Fred. Engelke and Valentine
Weismantel, under whose management it is in a flourishing
condition. Its capacity is 200 bbls. daily. It uses both the
buhr and roller process, and makes a fine brand called the
460A
ST. BONIFACE ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH ANDPfflTSTS RESIDENCE, EVANSVILLE, ILL
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
401
" Queen of the West." lu connexion with the coojfcrs' shop
attached, it employs twelve men.
The vilhige ha.« one brick hotel, by Henry Keukuer ; one
frame hotel, by Medard Heck ; two brick store.s, one by Ja-s.
O'Hara, the other by Keukner, Uegener & Co. ; two black-
smiths' shops — one by Henry Sievers, the other by C. E. De
Witt; one tailor shop, by Fritz Wilkning; one shoemaker
shop, by J. B. Frank ; one wagon shop, by August Miller ;
one post-office — James O'Hara, postmaster ; one physician,
T. P. Lark, M. D.; two justices of the peace, J. B. Frank
and Henry Keukner. J. B. Frank is notary public and
county commissioner. There are two school-houses, one
half a mile north, and one five miles southeast. There are
two churches, but not in the village, — one Evangelical
Lutheran and one Catholic. Stacy Hughs was the first
postmaster.
There are several good brick and frame residences in the
village, which has a population of about two hundred.
BIOGRAPHIES.
JOHN B. FllANK.
Onk of the prominent citizens of the thriving village of
Ruma is County Commissioner John B. Frank ; he was born
on the 21st day of December, 18.U, at Ob-rdof, Bavaria,
and is the youngest of nine children of Conrad and Caroline
(Kreiter) Frank. After completing an elementary education,
he learned the shoemaker's trade in his native village. In
the year 1853, at the age of nineteen years, he emigrated to
America, landing at New York ; he came west to St. Louis,
Missouri, and, after working at his trad* a few months in
that city, settled at Louisiana, I'lke county, Missouri, where
he established himself in his profession. On the l>>th day
of March, 18.i8, he married Miss Mary Williams, daughter
of (Iraham and Nancy Williams; Mrs. Frank was born
May 14th, 1843. Their children are: George, born Decem-
ber 28th, 1858, who grew to be a bright boy of sixteen years,
when he died, March 5th, 1875 ; Cora, born September 14th,
1861, married to Edward Horrel, on October 14th, 1879;
Edgar C, born September 24th, 1874; and Isabel, born De-
cember 14th, IS.sl.
At the breaking out of the Civil War Mr. Frank entered
military service as a private in the 5th Regiment of Mis-
souri State troops; he then re-enlisted in the 33rd Regiment,
Missouri Volunteers, when he served as Corporal of Co. D.
At the battle of Nashville, on December 15th, 18(i4, he was
dangerously wounded, receiving a fracture of the skull ; al
though little hopes were entertained as to his recovery, he,
under skilful treatment, was restored to life, and was honor-
ably discharged at the Marine Hospital at St. Louis on
June 5th, 1865. On the 21st day of March: 1866, Mr.
Frank, with his family, came to Ruma, where he at once
opened a shop, and where he is still doing a thriving busi-
ness. In 1868 he was commissioned as post-master of Ruma,
which office he held for eleven years and nine months; find,
iog the office too troublesome, he resigned the same, and in
1875 was elected a Justice of the Peace; as a prominent
member of the Republican party of Randolph county, Mr.
Frank soon became widely known, and in the year 1880 his
party honored him with the nomination for County Com-
missioner, to which office he was elected by a handsome
majority. At present Mr. Frank is President of the Board
of County Commissioners, and his official record in that ca-
pacity is without blemish. He cast his first vote for Lin-
coln and Johnson, and has ever since affiliated with the Re-
publican party. He is a member of the Catholic Church.
Mr. Frank has a comfortable home at Ruma, and he and his
family are highly esteemed by their neighbors and friends.
462
HISTORY OF BANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS
/S^^//(^^,
a^iu
The firm of O'Hara Bros, general merchants, at Ruma,
was organized in 1872, by Henry and James R. O'Hara
Henry, the oldest sou of James O'Hara and Elizabeth
(Threllfall) O'Hara, was born on December 10th, 1829, at
the O'Hara homestead, near Ruma. He left home in the
year 1850, and for a short time went to farming on his own
account. In 1851, he entered the store of H. C. Cole, at
Chester, as a salesman and remained there for three years.
Joining a party headed by William Threllfall in 1854 he
went to California, by the overland route and arrived there
safely after a six months' journey. During the twelve years
stay in California he was engaged in raining, but with
unsatisfactory results, returning by the isthmus route to
New York and from there to his home. He and his brother
James went to farming, one mile south of Harrisonville,
Monroe county, Illinois. While there he was married to
Miss Mary Misplay, daughter of Louis and Jane (Tyner)
Misplay. The marriage occurred on the 1st day of Febru-
ary, 1870. Mrs. Mary O'Hara was born on the 9th day of
November, 1849. They had five children, Addie, born
November 18th, 1871; Carrie Agnes, born January 13th,
1872 ; Maggie Jane, born June 29th, 1875 ; James Oscar,
born February 19th, 1877 and died December 18th, 1877 ;
and Jessie Rachel, born November 30th, 1878. While on a
trip to St. Louis, Mr. O'Hara contracted pneumonia and
died, after an illness of but five days, on February 10th,
1879, mourned by his widow and children and his many
relatives and friends. During his lifetime he gained the
highest esteem of all who knew him, by his honesty, industry
and superior social qualities. His remains are interred in
the Catholic cemetery near Ruma. He left his widow and
children in comfortable circumstances, and his wife still
holds his share in the store at Ruma.
BLAIR.
RANDOLPH CO.
lIR is a small precinct containing twenty
sections of laud. It lies south of the Central
and Sparta precincts, and is bounded on the
east by Steele's mills, and Sparta ou the south
by Bremen, and on the west by Florence and
Central. The land is rolling, some timber
and some prairie, and is generally well im-
proved. The soil is loam on the prairie,
but clay in the timbered portion. The south-
east part of the precinct is watered by a branch of Mary's
river. Pillars' creek also flows through it. The praiiie
is called "Opossumden."
The first settler in Blair was Major John Pillars, a half
brother of James Hughs, son of Thomas Hughs, who tvas
killed by the Indians while crossing the Ohio river on his
way back to a settlement ; he had previously lived near
Kaskaskia. His wife escaped, and, returning to Kentucky,
afterwards married James Pillars, the father of Major John
Pillars, who, with his two sons, John and Richard, and Mrs.
Hughs' son, bv her former husband, came out and made a
settlement on what is known as the "Old Hughs Place," on
the east side of the Kaskaskia river. John Pillars did not
long remain here, but opened a farm near his father, and
soon afterward moved to Opossumden prairie. He was a
man of note, and for a long time was major of the militia.
He died on his farm January, 18.52. He received his first
education from James Hughs, his half-brother, who was
older, and quite a mathematician. John Pillars built the
first house in Blair precinct, on section four. It was made
of round logs. He also improved the first farm. His daugh-
ter, Anne Pillars, now Mrs. Harmon, was the first child born
in the precinct.
The first burial ground was ou the farm above mentioned.
In it were buried John Pillars, his wife, and a few friends.
Samuel Crawford built the second house in this precinct.
He originally came from Tennessee, in the year 1816. He
settled on Opossumden prairie in 1819. He was said to
have been the first school teacher. A prominent and pop-
ular man, he served in various capacities. At one time he
was Justice of the Peace, then a receiver of public moneys in
the Land office, at Kaskaskia, also a member of the Legis-
lature.
William Morris settled on Opossumden prairie in 1817.
Edward Campbell, who at present resides in Blair village,
is the sou of Alexander Campbell, who came from Smith
county, Tennessee, in 1819, bringing with him a family of
eight children, making the journey by wagon, and accom-
panied several other families. Their journey was tedious,
and without incident.
The Indians were numerous, and Mr. Campbell says he
frequently saw as many as three hundred. Bear, deer, and
other game abounded. Wolf killing was quite a pastime.
Alex. Campbell, after living a (juiet and industrious life,
died, esteemed a good citizen, in the year 1827. His sons
were, Edward, John, Andrew, William, and Alexander.
Edward still lives near the old place, which was on section
eight.
He has been County Commissioner and Justice of the
Peace. John was elected sheriB'in 1838, and held the office
for ten years. Was afterwards elected Judge of the County
Court; theu sheriff again, and finally judge, which position
he held until his death.
James McFarland, William Morris, and James McDon-
ough, were old settlers in Blair. A company was made uji
on the Opossumden prairie for the Black llawk war, with
Josiah S. Biggs for captain, and during an enthusiasm cre-
ated by a Col. Henry, from the northeast part of the State,
a second waa raised, which had for captain, James Thomp-
son, who resided near Preston, on the Irish settlement.
Marcus L Barnes was in the Mexican war. His father
was a captain in both the Black Hawk and Mexican wars.
Felix Hughs, an old settler, lives in section 9 His
father, James, whose mother married James Pillars, came
from Kentucky, and settled with his step-father near Ka."
kaskia in the year 187.5. The place is known as the " Old
Hughs place" James Hughs was a noted man, remarka-
ble for energy and sound judgment. He was also considered
a fine scholar for those days; he excelled in mathematics.
So noted was he that John Reynolds, afterward Judge of
the Supreme Court and Governor of the State, applied to
him and received all the education he obtained until he
reached his seventeenth year. The future governor walked
from the farm on which the family lived, and which is now
owned by John Beare, on section 21, in Florence precinct,
and received his instruction during the winter nights ; coKl
weather, rain, or snow did not deter him.
James Hughs, being a man of energy and business capa-
city, engaged in making salt, at the mouth of Saline creek,
in Missouri, opposite Kaskaskia, a place where the early
settlers were in the habit of boiling salt. This salt he con-
veyed to the falls of the Ohio in what were then called K-
r05r«e.v,small flat-bottomed boats, which were polled and hauled
along the river. Trading the salt he brought back such
articles as were needed for use and to barter. On one of
these trips he met his future wife, a lady named Rachel
Hall, and engaged to marry her at the conclusion of his
next trip. His step-father, James Pillars, having by some
means gotten information of the mutter, unknown to Mr.
403
464
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Hughs, made his arrangements to surprise him, so when
James started down the river with his cargo of salt, Mr.
Pillars, taking two horses, besides the one he rode, cut
across the country and met young Hughs at the falls, who,
being thus surprised, inquired the reason of his unlooked-for
presence, and was told by Mr. Pillars that, expecting a mar-
riage, he had brought the horses so that he might ride with
his wife to her new home. The party rode back together,
camping out at night, their only bed being the blankets car-
ried on horseback, and their food such as could be prepared
by the way with the camp kettle.
James Hughs lived on his step-father's farm, which he
obtained, until his death. He was in the United States
ranging service in 1812. He left five sons, namely, James,
John, Stace, Feli.K and Henry.
Returning to the history of Felix Hughs, we find he
was born in Randolph Co., near the site of Ellis Grove in
1816.
Amos Taggart, living on section 5, is the son of Daniel C.
and Margaret Taggart- Daniel C was born in South Caro-
lina and came to Randolph Co., the first time, about the
year 1812. After a short sojourn he returned to South
Carolina, and remaining a few years, emigrated with his
family about the year 182.5. He settled in this precinct.
John Taggart a brother of Daniel C, who came to the
county about the same time, took part in the Black Hawk
war. Daniel C Taggart had nine children, six sons and
three daughters. John, David, William, Amos, Jane, Ellen,
Margaret, Francis and Robert. All are dead but David,
William, and Amos.
William Taggart, a brother of Amos, served in the Mexi-
can war, in company C, of the 2d 111. Vol. Inf, under Cap-
tain Crow. He was a participant in the battle of Buena
Vista. Amos Taggart is a member of the old debating socir
ty, mentioned in the latter part of this chapter.
Alexander M. Wilson, living on sections 6 and 7, came
from Duchess county, New York, in 1837. He first settled
on Lively Prairie. He had to encounter but few of the
vicissitudes connected with the first settlement of the county.
He followed the business of farming until the breaking out
of the late war, when he entered the service and attained
the rank of captain in the oOth Ills. Vol. Inf Toward the
close of the war he was commissioned major, and appointed
to duty in the Commissary Department. He continued in
this department until after the surrender of General Joseph
Johnson, in North Carolina, when he returned to the more
peaceful pursuits of farm life In 1842 Mr Wilson married
Susan Young, a daughter of John Young, who came from
Pennsylvania to Illinois among the early settlers. He
served in the Black Hawk war. The father of Mr. Wilson
was named Alexander Murray W^ilson.
The following are some of the first land entries in Blair
precinct. They are in township 6 N., range 6 W.
April 10th, 1815, Wm. Morrison entered south half, sec-
tion 3, 320 acres. April 21st, 1815, John Pillars entered
the S. E. quarter of section 4, 160 acres. Jan. 16th, 1818,
David Lovney entered the E. half, N. W. quarter, section 3,
71 acres. Oct. 3d, 1818. Charles Glover entered the W-
half, S. W. quarter, section 4, 80 acres.
BI.AIR TILLAGE.
This little village lies almost due south from Sparta, and
is located on sections 2, 3, 34, 35. It derived its name from
Thomas C. Blair. On making an application for a post
office at the place, there being no name designated, it was
suggested that Mr. Blair's own name be given. And it
was accordingly called Blair. He was appointed the first
postmaster, and was also the first justice of the peace. He
built the first house. It was a frame, and put up in the
year 1859. Mr. Blair also opened and kept the first store.
He came from county Antrim, Ireland, in the year 1842.
The village is on the Chester and Sparta road, and the
buildings extend along the cross formed by the intersection
of that by the townshi|) road running east and west. It
has some neat frame dwellings. One very fine farm-house
stands on the Chester road on the .southern limit, that would
o-raceany town. The population is about two hundred.
There are in this neat quiet village, two church edifices,
0. S. Presbyterian and Southern Methodist. The former
was erected a cost of $3,200. The latter, 82,400. Rev.
A W. Wright was the first pastor of the Presbyterian, and
Uev. L Duckworth of the Methodist church.
The first physician was Dr. Milton Hubbard, he was
succeeded by Dr. J. F. White, and he by Dr. J. L.
Mathews. The village has the following business, viz. :
Store for Genend Merchandise. — Owned by the Blair
Brothers, nephews of Thomas C. Blair.
Pod 0/^ce.— Postmaster, Robert J. Blair.
Justice of the Peace.— S. Boggs.
Blacksmith.— Fred. Hartley.
Wagon Maker. — James Hartley, also justice of peace.
Flour Mill. — Having a capacity for one hundred barrels
daily, is owned by W E. Brown. It gives employment to
three hands.
Saw Mill- — Owned by the same, runs in connection with
the grist mill.
There are two school houses near the village on sections
two and thirty-five. There is a coal mine one and a quarter
miles northeast of the village, owned by George Stanway.
It gives employment to three men, and yields a fine quality
of bitimmous coal, used mainly by the farmers in the neigh-
borhood.
BREEMEN
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
S situated in the scutlicast of the centra'
part of the county, and comprises por-
. tions of T. 6 and 7 S. R. 6 W., the -
greater part being in Town G. It con-
tains twenty six sections or about ltj,640
acres, and had in 1880 a population of
703. The general surface is rolling, which
becomes quite rugged in many places on
iijjproaching the various water courses,
which are u.-iually lined with a narrow
belt of timber. The principal streams
are Mary's river, which flows across the
southeastern portion of the precinct,
forming its southern boundary, and Little Mary's river and
Pillars' creek, which water and drain the western and
northern portions of the precinct. The Wabash and Chester
Railroad traverses diagonally througli the southeastern pari,
crossing Mary's river twice within her borders.
Breemen is one of the best improved bodies of land in the
county The farmers are a thrifty, hard-working, industrious
class, many of them Germans. Much attention is given to
manuring the lands, which have been so long neglected, and
they are being well paid for their labor. As a rule thefe
are no better farm buildings to be found in Randolph
county, than in the little precinct of Breemen. The country
abounds in finely made farms, beautiful groves and orchard.-^,
and well made roads. The soil is productive, and yields
abundant crops of all kinds of grain, fruit and vegetables.
The first permanent settler to locate within the limits of
Breemen was undoubtedly Robert Tindall, in the year 180J.
He was from Chester county, South Carolina, and located
on Sec. '■)'!, T. G S., R. 6 W., on the old Fleming place. It
was here, on the banks of the small tributary of Little Mary
creek, that he commenced the erection of a small water mill
which, before its completion, was swept away by the floods.
He soon after erected a horse mill, near his cabin, which
served a good purpose, and was a great convenience to the
early settlers. There is no doubt but that this small rude
aflair was in those days a great inducement for the pioneers
to locate near it. Mr. Tindell was a valuable man in this
thinlv peopled country, and one who was greatly esteemed
by his brother pioneers. He spent a life of usefulness. His
sons Reuben and Robert are well remembered by many of
the citizens. Tindell, was soon followed by others, many of
whom remained only a short period in the settlement. John
Lacy, a. South Carolinian, located here in 1804. He was
probably the next permanent settler. The Harmon settle-
ment, just west of the western bouudarv line of this pre-
59
cinct, was the next settlement, and it filled up rapidly
Michael Harmon, a native of Tennes.see, was the founder,
and resided there until his death. This settlement does not
properly belong to this chapter, and is mentioned fully in
another part of this work. At this late date it is impossible
to give the names or the history of the settlers as they came
in, but we can only write a short account from the meager
data collected from the memories of the few old pioneers.
Prior to the war of 1812, and the Indian hostilities resulting
therefrom, the settlers were few, and in many instances they
were separated many miles from each other. During those
troubles there were many Indian depredations committed
within the limits of Randolph county, but so far as we can
learn, this little band of hardy pioneers fortunately escaped
harm from the hands of the savages, although like all they
were in constant alarm. When an attack was expected, these
settlers sought refuge either in Fort Gage or at Georgetown
(Steelesville.) The war over, and treaties of peace made with
the Indians, the country began rapidly filling up with emi
grants from the southern and eastern states.
James McFarland came from South Carolina, and settled
here iu 1817. His son, Andrew McFarland, lived in the
neighborhood until his death, a few years ago. John Foresee
was another very early arrival, and came from Virginia,
bringing a wife and fannly, consisting of girls, viz. : Susie,
who married Josei)h Robinson ; Sally, who became the wife
of Jeflerson Robinson ; Betsey, the wife of Bryant Axom ;
Polly, the wife of Assac Laird, and Lovina, who married
Joseph Lively. All are now dead. Mr. Foersee purchased
100 acres of land of Col. John Edgar, upon which he settled,
and which was known for many years as the old Foresee
place, in the N. E. quarter of section 14. He improved a
good farm and remained on it until his death. Isaac Oliver,
a man of family, located at a very early day, improved a
farm and remained a resident of the precinct for many
years.
Breemen can boast of having within her limits one among
the oldest settlers now living in the county, — Joseph Lively.
He is a son of Shadrach Lively aud a grandson of Joseph
Lively, the original one of the name to come to this country.
He, the grandfather of Joseph Lively, came from Abbeville,
South Carolina, in 180.5, and first settled three miles north
of Kaskaskia, in Florence precinct. He remained there
until 182.3, when he moved and settled iu the lower end of
Opossumden prairie, and one year later settled the Camp-
bell place, in sec. 18, tp. G S., range 5 W. He was an
industrious aud benevolent man ; he died here in 1833.
His sons were Amos, Shadrach, Enoch, Richard, James and
465
466
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Reuben, none of whom are now living. They were all
farmers, and among the best citizens of the county, from
whom a numerous progeny have sprung. John Lively, a
brother of old Joseph Lively, came with his brother, and
afterward permanently located in a beautiful prairie on sec.
4 of tp. 5 S., range 6 W., which has ever since borne the
name of Lively prairie. Joseph Lively, son of Shadrach,
who now lives on sec. 25 of tp. 6, range 6, was born in 1804,
consequently one year old when he came to the county with
his lather's family. He is a native of Abbeville county,
South Carolina. The party came in four-horse wagons, with
but little household furniture and with little means; they
lived in rough, unhewed Ing cabins. After arriving at ma-
turity he married Lovina Foresee, daughter of John Foresee,
above mentioned. About 1829 he purchased of Alexander
Donaldson 280 acres of land, being in the E. half of section
25. This was unimproved land. He erected a hewed log
house upon the tract and began improvements. He is still
living on the old place, now over seventy- eight years of age.
In his younger days Mr. Lively was a great hunter, and
spent much of his time in pursuit of game. Then the deer
and wild turkey and all kinds of game were abundant. He
sold much of his game in St. Louis every season ; his load
consisted of from twenty to thirty deer, besides a number of
wild turkeys. He relates that he has killed hundreds of
wolves, and that he killed the last one that was caught in
this part of the country about twenty years ago. He raised
a family of seven children.
Early land entries. — December 23, 1819, John Rowland
entered the W. i of the S. W. i of section 14, 80 acres;
October 17, 1818, John Mahan entered W. J of N. E. i of
section 17, 80 acres; August 20, 1818, John Vineyard en-
tered the W. i of S. E. } of section 32, 80 acres. The
above are all in township 6 south, range 6 west.
The first orchard was set out by Joseph Lively on his
place in section 25. He purchased the trees from a nursery
up the Mississippi river a few miles. Isaac ^liver had a
cider press in early days. Sandy Campbell was the first
justice of the peace in this neighborhood. Dr. Ashby Jones
was the first to practice medicine here. The earliest school
was taught by Ezekiel Robbins, in a log house in the N. W.
} of section 27. He continued teaching in the neighbor-
hood for a number of years. The first school-house was
built on the N. E. i of section 26, and was about 25x25
feet in size, constructed of logs. It was in this building
that the first preaching was done, by the Revs. John Crane
and Bowers, both Methodists. Ephraim Joy also preached
here at a very early day. The Evangelical Lutheran de-
nomination erected the first church in the precinct in 1840.
It is now superseded by a handsome brick with sandstone
trimmings, which was erected at a cost of $9,000. The old
graveyard on the N. E. i of section 26 is the first public
burying ground in the precinct. The ground was deeded
for that purpose by Job Laird as early as 1830, and his
wife was the first buried there.
VILLAGE OF RANDOLPH.
This place was laid out on the old Sparta and Chester
road by Hiram Chapman, and surveyed and platted by
Samuel Thompson, deputy county surveyor, September 12,
1839, and the plat recorded in the office of the circuit clerk,
October 16, 1839. This road, in early days, was quite a
thoroughfare. About 1850, it was partially planked, and
a great deal of grain and flour was hauled over it to the Mis-
sissippi river, before the building of the railroad. It
has again became a dirt road. About 1850, John
Wood kept a small grocery and liquor establish-
ment there. In a few years the Germans began flocking
into the vicinity, and through their industry and prudence
the country around became more prosperous. In 1856, Isaac
Lehnherr, erected a good store-house, and laid in a well
selected stock of goods and began doing a brisk trade. The
post-office which had been established, a short time pre-
viously, just south of the village.was moved into the place in
the winter of 1856. It was called Breemen, which name it still
retains. Mr. Buckman soon afterward opened a store, and
several workshops were soon being operated in the vicinity.
A school-house was erected at St. John's church in 1856. A
school-house was erected in 1879. The place is now quite a
brisk little inland village, and considerable business is being
done there. Among the business men and tradesmen of
1882, we will mention the following :
General Merchandise — William Buckman, also P. M.
and Henry Schroeder.
Drugs and Physicians.- — Henry Adderly.
Wagon Maker. — E. F. Sick. Tailor — John Struss.
Dress Maker. — Miss Eliza Dillman.
Shoe Maker. — John Dannenbrink.
KOCKWOOD
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
fills precinct is situated in the extreme
southeastern part of the county, and
lies on tiie Mississippi. It comprises
geographically portions of townships
seven and eight soutli, and ranges five
and six west. The surface generally is
hilly and rough, and on approaching
the Mississippi terminates in a high
range of abrupt bluffs, extending along
the river. Almost the entire territory was originally
heavily wooded, and much of it is still in that condition.
The soil of these uplands is quite productive. There is an
area of bottom belonging to the precinct, which including
Mary's River, Liberty and Sheep islands, perhaps does not
exceed two thousand acres. Mary's River island, formerly
called Crane's, from John Crane, who was the original settler
of it and who died there in 1850, lies in the Mississippi and
constitutes a part of township seven and eight south, range
six west. It has an area of about one thousand acres, less
than one-fourth of which lies in Chester precinct. Much of
it is under cultivation. Liberty island, now with doubtful
propriety so called, is a level area of about seven hundred
acres of land, lying in the Mississippi, and in 1880, had a
population of 988. The streams that supply water and
drainage, are Mary's River, Little Nile, Degognia, Hiskison,
and Jones creeks. The three former, together with the
Mississippi, constitute, of the mainland, a peninsula. The
timber is of an excellent character, and abundant. The soil
is rich, and but little attention is paid to fertilizing.
Wheat is the staple, though corn is raised, and yields
abundantly in the bottoms. Fruit grows well and is exten-
sively cultivated.
The first settlement in Kockwood precinct was made in
1802 by Benjamin Crane, on section 22, township", range G.
He had seven sons, Benjamin, Squire, William, James, Joel,
Lewis and John. They settled about the mouth of Mary's
river and on the island opposite, which once bore the family
name. The next settlement was made by Elmsley Jones^
within the present limits of Kockwood village, as early as
1804. The small creek that flows through the village still
bears his name. He was the first man capitally punished in
the county. The execution occurred at Kaskaskia, in 180.5,
James Gilbreath being then sheriff. Jones murdered a man
named Reed, of Jackson county with whom he had quar-
reled. John Hickman built a cabin on the river at Kock-
wood village, in 180.5. The site has long since been swept
away by the current. John Manskcr was originally from
the neighborhood of Louisville, Kentucky. In 1801 he
brought his family to Missouri and settled opposite section
11, where he remained about six years. He then came to
Randolph county, and in 1807, located on Liberty formerly
called Mansker island, where he remained till 1813, when he
settled on section 10. The site of this settlement has been
swept away. Samuel Mansker, son of the above, was born
near Louisville, Kentucky, in 1795. He went to Missouri,
with his father at the age of six years, and came along to
Liberty Island, at the age of twelve. About 1816 or '17 he
married Nancy Crawford and settled on the N. E. i of sec-
tion 11, where he improved a good farm, much of which has
been swallowed up by the river. He still lives on the old
farm at the age of eighty-six, the oldest pioneer in the
precinct and probably in the county. He was four times
married and is now living with his fourth wife. He had a
large family of children, seven of whom are now living.
John Hindman was a native of Ireland, and about the year
1800. came to Kentucky where he married Ann Gaston. He
remained here about five or six years, when he came with
his family to Randolph county. He and his wife walked all
the way, he leading a filly that bore upon his back, in a sort
of basket, his two sons and only children, Robert, then about
four, and Alexander two years of age. In 1806 he settled
on the S. E. i of the S. W. } of section 22, where he put up
a cabin and remained about two years, and then moved to
the N. E. i of the N. W. i of section 2-3, where he died in
1826 or '26. His wife survived him for a period of time.
Robert died unmarried at the age of twenty-two years.
Alexander married Sarah, daughter of Alexander Barber,
at the age of twenty-two, and in 1826 settled on the old
homestead, in section 23, where he lived about five years.
He then moved to the S. E. \ of the N. W. i of section 12,
where he entered eighty acres of land and built a stone house
still standing, in which he lived about twenty years and
then moved to the S. W. i of the N. E. 1 of section 12,
where he built a frame house in which he still resides, at the
age of seventy-six. He has seven children living, John,
Samuel, Alexander Jr., James H., Ann, Emeliue, and
Sarah. Alexander, on the S. W. i of the S. E. t of section
1, township 8 south, range 6 west. Ann. Emeline and Sarah
live in the precinct.
The Bilderback family settled first in the neighborhood
of Kaskaskia in 1802. In 1818, William and Charles came
to Rockwood precinct and entered land in section 7. They
became permanent residents. Charles died in 1849. .\lcx-
ander Barber, was a native of Connecticut. He came to the
county from Ohio in 1804, and first settled on the east side
of Kaskaskia river in the Bilderback settlement not far
467
468
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
from Riley's mill. He came to the preciuct in 1825, and
located about two miles north of Rockwood. In 1834, he
settled on section 18, and purchased land. His first wife
was Nancy Dennis, whom he married at Marietta, Ohio.
He was a skilful millwright in his day and erected a mill on
his farm. He held the office of justice of the peace for a
period exceeding forty years, and was the first justice in the
precinct. He died in 18G1, leaving a widow who had been
his second wife. Henry Clendinen was of Scotch descent,
and came to the county from Kentucky, and in 1818, en-
tered eighty acres of land in section -4. He brought along
with him his wife and sis grown children. He died in 1851.
Descendants of the family are still living in the precinct-
prominent among whom is Dr. M. W. Clendinen of Rock,
wood village. George Sebastian came to the precinct in
1830, from Kentucky. In that state he married Nancy,
daughter of Leonard Carter, who settled on the N. W. i of
section 23, as early as 1820. He remained here but a short
time and then went to Rockwood village, and finally to
Jackson county, where he became a prosperous farmer.
B. F. Sebastian was born in the county in 1838 The first
settler on Sheep Island was George W. Steele. He built a
cabin and began improvement here in 1837. He was soon
after drowned and was succeeded in ownership by William
Burns, who was the last occupant.
Near the S. W. corner of section 16, was an old French
fortification of earthwork. Traces of it which have disap-
peared in the course of husbandry, were visible about
twenty years ago. Not far from this point on the bank of
Degognia creek, now lost to view, was visible only a few
years since the grave of Degognia, an old Indian, or, as the
name would seem to indicate, a Frenchman, whose history lies
beyond the shadowy land even of tradition. Near the center
of section 17, on a slight elevation now the site of George
Cooper's residence, stood an old log cabin. This elevation on
digging for the foundation of Mr. Cooper's house proved to
be an Indian burial place from which were exhumed skele-
tons in a sitting posture. But few of them were removed.
Among the bones taken out was a massive jaw bone, which
must have been the property of a giant. Pottery of dif-
ferent designs was found. A vase, which was in a good state
of preservation, contained a species of red powder. The
oldest burial place in the precinct is just north of the Eben-
ezer school-house on the S. } of section 5. An early inter-
ment here was that of Henry Clendinen. Samuel Mansker
improved the first farm.
VILLAGE OF ROCKWOOD.
The first to occupy the site of the village which was for-
merly called Liberty, was probably Elmsley Jones, already
referred to. Samuel Mansker built the second, if not the
first house, within her limits. The first store was estab-
lished by James McCormick. In 1832 John Stearns, who
immigrated from Kentucky, laid off the town into lots.
January 20, 1836, Samuel Mansker and Joab Parks had it
surveyed and platted by James Thompson, county surveyor.
The plat was recorded in the office of the circuit clerk, July
25, 1836. It was soon after sought by a number of enter-
prising men. Among them was Captain W. B. Charles, who
had followed the Mississippi for a number of years. His
boat was laid up here, and during his suspense he concluded
to become a resident, which he continued to be for a number
of years, and then removed to Litchfield. Illinois, and there
died. About this time James Dean, Harvey Clendinen,
Samuel Barber, Dr. Manning, Thomas Frazier, E. G. Hall
and many others came to the place and gave to it quite an
impetus. Mansker, Clendinen and Barber established a
store, and did an extensive business in the purchase and
shipment of grain. The town was incorporated in the year
1837, with William B. Charles, Nathaniel Manning, Jacob
Parks, John Stearns and John D. Stearns as trustees. John
Stearns was chosen president, and Harvey Clendinen, clerk.
About this time the citizens built a wharf, which was used for
a number of years. Two years prior to this, in 1835, the
first school-house, a hewed log structure, was built. At this
school-house was preached, by the Reverend Mr. Reasonerj
the first sermon delivered at a public place in the village.
The first resident physician was Dr. Higgins. John Gray
established a blacksmith shop as early as 1837. The Presby-
terian church was organized in 1844 by Rev. C. C. Riggs.
Its meetings were held iu the school-house. The church
building, a brick structure, was built in 1860. The school-
house is a frame building. About 1855, the name of the
viUage was changed from Liberty, and that of the post-office
from Jones' Creek to Rockwood, an appellation in keeping
with the natural surroundings of the place. In this year some
of the citizens of the town and vicinity organized a joint
stock company and began the building of a mill, which was
completed and set in operation the next year. When built
it was one of the largest class of merchant mills. It was
burned in 1863, and rebuilt by J. B. Holmes, of Chester, at
a cost of 821,000. It is now owned by Samuel H. Canaday,
of New Orleans, and leased and operated by H. B. Brown
and Son. It is a stone, three-story basement and attic,
sixty by forty mill, and has a capacity of about one himdred
and forty barrels a day. It is equipped with a system of
elevators, and has three run of four feet burrs. The engine
room, like the mill proper, is built of dressed sand-stone.
There is a cooper shop attached which employs ten hands.
About twenty years ago Rockwood was one of the largest
wood markets on the Mississippi. Prior to the construction
of the railroads that extend through the county, it was a cen-
ter of shipment for much of the interior, and was as such, at
a period of its history, superior to Chester. Shipments of
goods were received here for the merchants of Red Bud.
The trade sustained a terrible blow by the change in the
course of the river, which placed the village commercially
nearly a mile inland. In 1860 it contained five dry goods
stores, two grocery stores, one wagon shop, two blacksmitli
shops, one chair factory, one boot and shoe shop, one cooper
shop, one hotel and three physicians. Population in 1880
numbers 231.
PRESENT BUSINESS.
Physicians. — William Vance, J. C. Barber, M. W. Clen-
dinen, J. N. Taylor.
General Merchandise. — G. W. Walters.
General Merchandise and Dru</s. — Benjamin Richards
P. J. Wagner, W. G. Harry & Son.
Postmaster. — W. G. Harry.
Laimjer- — John P. Mann.
Justice of the Peace. — W. G. Harry.
Blacksmiths. — Robert Emery and Son.
Wagon Maker. — John Ried.
Carpenter. — G. W. Hooker.
Tailor. — Zivny.
Machinery Agent. — Benjamin Richards.
Dressmakers. — Mrs. J. A. Ried, Miss Francis Jeffrey.
Restaurant. — John Frazier.
BIOGRAPHIES
SAiMUEL
A LIFE of four-score years cannot fail to be full of eventful
incidents, and especially is this true of the career of Samuel
Mansker, born in Kentucky, in 1795 ; his family were
pioneers of Missouri locating there in 1804, and a few years
later settlers of Randolph county, Illinois
In 1807, the Manskers made their first improvements in
Illinois, near Rockwood. The site has been washed away by
the waters of the great river, many years. Upon the break-
ing out of the war of 1812, the throbs of patriotism beating
MANSKER.
in his breast, led Samuel, then a lad of seventeen, to offer
his services to his country, as a drummer boy. They were
accepted. For over seventy years he has resided where his
father located before him, a few miles below Chester. Here
he has followed his business of farming, flat-boating and
trading with great success. He is one of the largest laud
owners in the county. A man of great energy, perseverance
and courage. One of the few who served in the war of
1812 now living.
469
WINE HILL
RANDOLPH COUNTY.
I HIS precinct is in the southeast side of
Randolph, adjoining Jackson county.
It is quite irregular in shape, and com-
prises in geographical area, portions of
townships six and seven south, range
five west and a portion of township
seven south, range six west, and con-
tains in all about twenty-five sections of
land. The principal streams, supplying water and drainage,
are Little Mill and Mobb Creeks and Mary's River. The
surface is composed principall)' of hilly up-land. Gillespie's
Prairie in the northeast contains about four hundred acres
of level surface. There is also some good bottom land at
the junction of Little Mill Creek and Mary's River. Most
of the land, especially the hill-sides, was originally heavily
wooded. Much of the surface, however, consisted of open
hill-tops covered with a growth of tall gr.ass. These open
ridges proved to be fertile and well adapted to the produc-
tion of wheat and clover, yielding more certain results than
the prairie. The timber consists principally of oak and
hickory, and is still abundant. Wheat, both in the prairie
and the high lands, is the staple production. Clover is
largely grown and turned under with the plow as a fer-
tilizer. The precinct is well supplied with schools. There
are five within its limits. The principal one is at Shiloh
Hill, which at one time made considerable pretensions. An
attempt was made to elevate it to the dignity of a college,
and to this end a charter was granted to ten trustees by the
State Legislature. The precinct is well organized and free
from debt. It had, census of 1880, a population of 88L
The woods, considering the ruggedness of much of the sur-
face, are well kept. But little attention is paid to stock
breeding. Henry Eichelman introduced the Durham breed
of cattle, about 1872. The cholera of a few years ago, gave
a set-back to hog-breeding, from which recovery has not yet
been effected. The Essex, the Berkshire, and the Poland
China breeds have received attention. The Berkshire is
the favorite.
The earliest permanent settlement was made in the region
of Shiloh Hill. Benjamin Brown located here in 1816.
But little is known of his history. In 1817, the Bradley
family made a permanent settlement in this neighborhood,
which bears their name. They were hardy, influential and
public spirited men, and well-fitted for pioneer life. They
were James, Franklin, William and Richard. In this same
year came William Guin, from Sumner county, Tennessee.
He was of Irish descent, the family having emigrated to this
country and settled in South Carolina, about 1775. He
470
brought with him to the county, his wife, Francis Canaday,
whom he had married in Sumner county. He entered one
hundred and sixty acres of land in the N. W. quarter of
section eleven, where he improved a good farm, and on
which he lived until 18-48, the date of his death. He was
the pioneer settler in Gillespie's Prairie, and the cabin he
there erected, and the improvements he began, were among
the very first evidences of civilization in the precinct. He
had a family of eleven children, whose descendants are quite
numerous in the county.
About the same time the settlement of Shiloh Hill was
increased by the accession of Barrows and Houseman ; Jas.
M. Houseman was for a number of years a respectable far-
mer of that region, where descendants of the family still re-
side. In 1819 Adonijah Ball made a settlement on Rock
Castle creek ; this settlement was then in advance of the
frontier line ; he came to Illinois from Connecticut, and
finally moved to Missouri, when he accidentally killed him-
self while carrying water. John Stearns came in from Ten-
nessee about 1821, and settled on the S. E k of section 3;
he lived here a number of years, and then moved to the
town of Rockwood, where he engaged in merchandising; he
was an active and enterprising man, and in 18-12 laid out
the town into lots. He died here, and was buried in Gilles-
pie's grave-yard in section 2. James Gillespie came to what
is now known as Wine Hill precinct in 1826, and entered
the S. W. } of section 2, and built [a hewed log house ; he
was born in 1794. He went from Summer county, North
Carolina, to Tennessee when twelve years of age, and lived
there till he came to Illinois, and permanently located on
section 2. He brought with him, in an ox-cart, his wife,
whom he married in 1819, and three children, John, Eliza,
beth, and Nellie. He was an active, public-spirited man,
and manifested much interest in public instruction. The
people of the county testified their appreciation of his worth
by electing him to the position of Associate Justice of the
county court. The beautiful prairie in which he lived bears
his name. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and was in
several important engagements under Colonel Coffee. He
died in 1865. His son, John, married Miss Ann Askins,
and settled down on section .3 ; here he died in 1849. Eliz-
abeth married John K. Burk. Nellie became the wife of
Willis Osborn, who first settled in Jackson county ; he after-
ward went to Missouri, and thence to Oregon, on the way to
which State Nellie died and was buried at the foot of the
Rocky Mountains. Mr. Gillespie had seven children born
here — three sons and four daughters, all of whom are living.
Colonel David Gillespie lives on the old homestead, and in
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
471
the old ancestral house ; in his door-yard stands a pear tree,
more than eight feet in circumference, planted by his father
over fifty years ago ; it is said to be the largest of its species
in Illinois. John B. Burk entered eighty acres of land, and
built a cabin thereon, in 1827 ; he was born in Iredell
county, North Carolina, in 1789; he there married Jane
Cowan in 18Itj, and about three years later with her and
their child, Thomas C, removed to Tennessee, where be re-
mained till his departure for Illinois, which occurred at first
without the company of his family, for whom he returned, after
completing his cabin ; he brought them, consisting of his wife
and three sons, Thomas C. John K., and James, in an old
North Carolina wooden-wheeled wagon ; on his return to Ten-
nessee, he fastened up in his newly-built house two dogs, for
whom he had prepared a supply of Indian meal and water;
on his arrival they seemed none the worse of their long im-
prisonment, and testified iheir joy at his return. He died
in 1869. Thomas C. married Jemima Barrow, of Jackson
county, by whom he had several children. He entered land
in section 1-5. His death occurred at Shiloh Hill. John
K. married Elizabeth Gillespie, and settled on forty acres of
unimproved land in section 23; from this small beginning
he became a large land owner. In 1877 he moved to Texas
By Elizabeth Gillespie he had thirteen children.
James McLaughlin came about 1828, from North Caro-
lina. His family consisted of his wife, one son, James, Jr.,
and four daughters, Rebecca, Susan, Polly and Elizabeth.
The two latter are still living, the others are dead. Mr.
McLaughlin entered land in section 21, and built a hewed
log house still standing, where he lived till old age. He
died in the neighborhood. Abel Broughton and his wife,
came from Tennessee, about 1838, and squatted on a piece of
land in section 1, and there built a small cabin. On his
arrival he had an old gray mare, which constituted the sum
and substance of his property, and whose value did not
exceed ten dollars. He used to make the old-time shuck
collars and splint baskets By industry and frugality he ac-
cumulated property and became a successful fiirmer and stock
raiser. He finally squandered his jimperty by dissipation.
Among the names of earlier settlers, may be mentioned those
of Duran Houseman and Martin Ireland. The former was
from Tennessee. He entered forty acres of land in the S.
W. i of section 14, where he died and was buried. Judge
Martin Ireland was born in Scott county, Kentucky, October
18, 1811. In 1835 he married Mary Short, grand-daughter
of Rev. Ellis Short, the pioneer preacher. Two years later
he came to Randolph county, bringing his wife and son, John
J. He entered forty acres in the N. E. i of section 20.
Other entries and purchases have largely increased his pos-
sessions. He now lives on the N. W. i of the N. W. i of
section 21.
In the vicinity of Wine Hill village the population is
principally Gi^rman. The first of that nationality to settle
there, was Fritz Knop. He came in 1851, with his wife,
from Hanover, and entered one hundred and twenty acres
of land in the N. i of section eight, where he died. Henry
Helms came from Hanover, a single man in 1851. He
entered forty acres in the S- W- i of section eight, where he
still lives. From the same place, in 1852, came Conrad
Walters. He brought with him a wife and three children,
and settled on the N. E. i of section eight. Conrad, Jr.,
lives on the S. E. } of section five. Another early German
settler from Hanover, is D. Rickenberg, who came in 1852,
and entered land in the N. W. i of section eight.
The pioneer miller, was Alexander Barber, who [built a
combined saw and grist water-power mill, on Mill creek, a
portion of whose foundation is yet to be seen. It had one
run of burrs and an upright saw, and was probably built
about 1825. George Steele built a saw mill on Rock Castle
creek, in section 32, as early as 1830.
The first school-house was built about 1830, and stood in
theS. E. corner of section 10- The first to give instruction
in it was Isaac Brown. Rev. Eli Short preached the first
sermon at the house of James Gillespie, about 1830. An
early preacher was Richard Davis. James Gillespie and
John Burke were the early blacksmiths of the precinct, and
at their shops on their farms did, for a number of years, the
work in their line for the community. The Burk, Guin,
and Gillespie families, planted orchards soon after their ar-
rival, and a few of the original trees in the Gillespie orchard
are still standing. Dr. Curtis Swanwick, who lived near
Shiloh, was the first resident physician. His practice be-
gan not far from 1850. Dr. Ashby Jones, of Steelesville,
had been the principal medical dependence prior to that
date.
The first physician consulted by the settlers was Dr. Betts,
of Kaskaskia. Jeremiah Chapman established the first
wagon shop about 1856. A post-oflnce was established in
1860 at Shiloh Hill, and kept by Mr. Picket ; Emanuel
Canaday was the first justice of the peace under the present
precinct organization. W^illiam A. Durkee sold the first
goods, a half mile north of the town of Shiloh Hill, about
the year 1852. The Germans in the neighborhood of Wine
Hill hamlet introduced grape culture and wine-making quite
extensively, and this circumstance gave rise to the name of
Wine Hill. An early, and probably the first marriage, was
that of James Barber and Sophia Crider, about 1832, at the
house of James Gillespie, 'Squire John Stearns officiating.
The Gillespie burial ground, section 2, is the oldest. The
burial of a little son of John McNeill in this graveyard was
probably the first burial. The first land entries were as fol-
lows: Richard Jones, August 3, 1818, entered one hundred
and sixty acres, being the S. W. i of section 2; November
18, 1817, John Crenshaw entere<l the one hundred and sixty
acres of the N. E. i of section 11. Adam Storm entered
the eighty acres in the E. } of the S. W. i of section 3,
October 3, 1818. January 1, 1819, the eighty acres in the
E. i of the N. E. } of section 14, were entered by John I
Henry.
VILLAGE OF SHILOH HILL.
This village, formerly called Steuben, is situated in the
northwest quarter of the northeast quarter of section 14.
The fir^t building was the old Shiloh school-house, erected
some time prior to 1838. A notable fact connected with its
hist.rv is, that Gen. John A. Logan was one of its inmates,
and received a part of his early education under its clapboard
472
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
roof. It was used as a Union church house as well as for
school purposes. It was in this house that Rev. Cyrus
Chrisler, an old " Ironsides " Baptist minister, is said to have
burned brimstone, to purge it from the devil, whom he
claimed had been introduced through the agency of a fiddle
used by Jabez Newton, an early singing master, in the
instruction of his classes. The school of Shiloh Hill has
ever been of a high grade, and its history is the pride of the
villagers and neighbors. An eighty acre tract of land was
ceded and a charter granted by the State Legislature to ten
trustees about 1840, for the purpose of establishing a college
to be called •' Shiloh College." The scheme was never fruit-
ful, beyond fostering and stimulating au interest in higher
education. The old school house did duty till 1857, when a
frame one was built on the same site. This was superseded
in 1882 by the present, a handsome two-story brick building,
which was erected at a cost of S3,500. In 1856 the sale of
town lots, which had been previously laid out, commenced.
The town is able to report progress, and is enjoying a share
of prosperity, as will appear from the following showing of
the
PRESENT BUSINESS :
Fhijiidan —P. H. McMillan.
Dry Goods Merchant and Postmaster. — Dennis Sheldon.
General Merchandise and Drugs. — George Tegtmeyer.
Blacksmith. — William Newman.
Shoemaker. — Henry Brammer.
Tailor.— Fred. Helms.
Cooper. — David Criley.
General Agent. — George Tegtmeyer.
Carpenter. — C. J. Steele.
Wagon Maker. — Thomas Neeley.
The hamlet of Wine Hill occupies an eminence overlook-
ing a fine landscape, embracing many valuable farms. The
farm-buildings of this vicinity are largely new and well-
painted. The thrift and economy of the Germans are mak-
ing this one of the best farming districts in southern Illinois.
In the hamlet is St. Paul's Evangelical Lutheran church.
It is a frame house, erected in 1862, and is. in point of time,
the first church in the precinct. Its supercession in the near
future by a brick building is contemplated. The minister
first in charge was Rev. Christian Avers. The membership
of the church numbers 75. Connected with it is a flourish-
ing school, numbering from 75 to 80 scholars, established in
1862. Powel Grose was the first teacher. The school-house
is a commodious frame building. The post-ofiice here was
established about 1866 or 1867, and was originally called
Lakeville. The business consists of a general store kept by
William Werre, who is also post-master ; a blacksmith and
wagon shop, operated by Henry Stiens; and a tailor's
shop, of which Henry Lege is proprietor.
-^=0^
9=^^-
BEAUCOUP.
PERRY COUNTY.
".AUCOUP is situated in the
northern part of the county,
and is bounded on the north
by Washington county, on the
east by Tamaroa, on the south
and southwest by Pinckney.
ville, and on the west by
Grand Cote precinct. It con-
tained, census of 1880, a p .pulation of 1047. The surface,
is level and divided between prairie and timber land,
the latter largely predominating. Round Prairie, a circular
area, is about one mile in diameter. It was originally
larger, but has been encroached upon by the growth
of the timber. The precinct, though originally in
part covered in forests, as appears from a well-marked Indian
trail, at present visible, was much less densely so than now.
Much of the timber has grown up within the last thirty or
forty years. The Indian trail, alluded to, extends in a north-
easterly and southwesterly direction, and leads to Beaucoup
creek, whose banks the Indians are supposed to have ap-
proached, through the trail, for the purpose of hunting and
fishing- The St. Louis aad Shawneetown road extends
through the precinct, crossing the Beaucoup. This is one
of the old highways into the interior of Illinois. The timber
consists, principally, of the various kinds of hard wood, and
is of an excellent quality. The water- supply and drainage
are derived from Beaucoup, Little Beaucoup and Swanwick
creeks. The soil, like that of Tamaroa, is best adapted to
the growing of wheat. The precinct has not a town or
village within its limits. Camden was laid out, July 31,
1859, by Isaac Redfern, and platted and surveyed by
Robert Steele, county surveyor. It was located on the S.
W. i of the S. W. \ of section 5, town four south, range
2 west. It never prospered and was vacated years ago.
The first settler in township four, range two west, which
includes Beaucoup precinct, and the northwest corner of
Pinckneyville precinct was made in 1816 by John Hutchins
and William Hutchins his brother, two years previous to
the organization of the state. The Hutchins were natives of
North Carolina, whence, with their wives, they went to
Tennessee, stopped a while, and not being satisfied with the
country, pushed foward to the Illinois Territory. Their
original aim was Missouri, whither they were on their way,
when in May, 1816, they camped upon the banks of Beau-
HIHTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
473
coup, where they made their permanent settlement. John
Hutchings, besides himself and wife and four children, had
a colored raan named Laudon Parks, and Agis, his wife, and
another colored woman, named Dinah, in company with hira.
William Hutchings' family consisted of his wife and six
children, and a Miss Delilah Jones, who afterwards be-
came the wife of John R. Hutchings, his eldest son. When
this btdy of fmigrants, eighteen in all, with their several
wagons and teams, halted upon Beaucoup for a few days'
rest, they had no other expectation than to continue their
journey when their teams had rested and recruited. They,
however, found grouse so abundant and wild-honey so plen-
tiful, and the whole country wearing such a rich and pro-
ductive appearance, that they were delighted with what they
saw, and the thought impressed them of abandoning their
trip to Missouri. In the fourse of a few days, however, they
continued their journey as far as RatclifTs or Sawj'er's
Point, in Washington county, when they concluded to re-
turn to the camp they had last occupied on Beaucoup.
They accordingly began their return, and when they ar*
rived at their destination, there was encamped within sight
of them a large body of Kaskaskia Indians upon what was
then their favorite camping grounds, and what is now
familiarly known as Hutchings' prairie. The Hutchings
say that when they came, there were great quantities of
elks', antelopes' and deers' bones scattered upon the prairie ;
that in Four Mile prairie, below Pinckneyville, there were
many human bones to be found. The presence of these
bones they supposed at that time to have been occasioned
by a desperate fight between the Kaskaskia and Kickapoo
Indians i>revious to their settlement here, in which a great
many of the braves were killed on both sides, and in their
running fight were left unburied. John Hutchings built
his first cabin on the N. W. qr. of sec 19, tp 4, range 2,
which he entered July 2-5, l.><17. He built a two-story
house ntar the original cabin, which was known as the
" Traveler's Inn " for a number of years; this building stood
for upward of fifty years. William Hutchings first built in
the south side of the Hutchings' prairie; in 1810 he re-
moved to what is now known as the Watson place, where he
resided till his death, about ten years after he came here.
John R. Hutchings, oldest son of William Hutchings, is
pretty familiarly known throughout the county, having been
one of the early schoolmasters and Baptist ministers. He
aided in the organization of our county in 1827, and was
one of the commissioners to locate Pinckneyville as the
county seat, and subsequently served as county judge.
Wesley W. Hutchings, who has kindly furnished the facts
and dates of this precinct, through Mr. Todd, for this chap
ter, is the onlv surviving member of the family of William
Hutchings, the first pioneer. He lives in Three Mile Prairie,
Washington county, highly esteemed by all who know him_
He was born at the new pioneer home, Oct. 4, 1822, on the
east side of the creek.
Mrs. Marv Rice (wife of Hiram Rice, deceased), daughter
of John Hutchings. is the only surviving member of that
emigrant train of eighteen persons who made their homes
in the territory of the precinct in May, 1816. She was five
60
years old when her father came to Illinois. The nearest
settlement to the Hutchings' when they settUd on Beaucoup
was RatlifT's or Sawyer's Point, as it was called, about fifteen
miles distant, in Washington county. Mr. Hutchings says
it was no uncommon thing for the whole family to start afoot
early on Sabbath morning to attend preaching at Ratliff's
Point and get back home before night.
House raisings were very common in those early days, and
the custom was to invite the neighbors in for ten and twelve
miles around, those that lived farthest generally coming
the evening before and going back on the morning after the
raising. The nearest town to this settlement, when first
found, was Kaska.<kia. Here these early settlers did most,
or all of their trading and milling. Deer skins, honey and
bees wax were the chief articles of trade. These they ex-
changed for clothing and such other goods as they were
compelled to have. Bee trees in those days were very rich.
One tree cut in the precinct is represented as having combs
varying from ten to twelve feet long ; and as many as twenty
gallons of honey are known to have been taken from one
tree.
The settlers learned from the Indians the art of tan-
ning deer skins. They made their hunting shirts, leather
breeches and moccasins. Joshua M. Rice, emigrated from
Tennessee to Illinois in 1829, and stopped at Hutchings'
prairie, where he raised one crop. He then removed to
township 4, in 1830. Abner S. Rice, son of Joshua M.Rice,
was born in Tennessee in 1810, and Mrs. Lucy Rice was
born in the same State in 1812, and belonged to another
pioneer family named Hulls, that settled in Round prairie.
Jlr. and Mrs. Rice still live on the old place aged and es-
teemed citizens. In 18.30, Jeremiah Dinuis settled in sec-
tion 1, township 4, range 2, on land that was sold to Edward
Hodges in 1834. Mr. Hodges says: " They raised cotton and
flax for clothing; that the cotton, when planted thin, grew
to a height of ten or twelve feet, and not maturing until
late in the fall, was often killed by the frost ; but, that when
they learned to sow it thick, it grew the ordinary height and
yielded well. Jacob Walker settled what is now known as
the Page place, in 1831, his house being built directly on
the line between Washington and Perry counties. Camp-
bell Stuart settled on the Lindsley place 1831. Smith or
Owens, on the Gilbert Rice place in section 10, Round
prairie, in 1831. Christopher Stone, on the Wm. Chap-
man place in section 29, in 1841. Lewis Stilley, on the
Peyton Brown place in 1836. Elisha Dunn settled the
Matthew Marlow place in 1836. James Gordan slopped in
the Brown settlement before removing to Washington
county. John Peyton settled the Evan Brown place, sec-
tion 27, in 1.S41. Brown was in Pinckneyville in 1829.
James Meadows settled the Shade place, in section 6, in
1833. The Campbell place was settled in 1830. Joseph
Todd and wife, born in Lounenberg, made a permanent
home, where he now resides, 1839. Mr. Todd came to
America on a trial trip, to see the country, and visited all
the principal citiei on the seaboard, and then returned with
his family. All these places were permanently settled in
Beaucoup precinct, previous to, and in the year 1841, it
474
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
having at that time had a population of about eighty per-
sons. Beacoup contained only about three sections of prairie
lands, hence, we may the more easily account for its being
so slow in settling up.
The children of the settlers living west from Hutchings'
prairie first attended the school at the Big Rock school-
house, in Washington county, and those on the east side
went to a school in Mud prairie. The first school-house was
built in 1837 on the Edmund Hodges' place, in section 1,
and the second at the Truster place, in section 21, in 18-50,
both being small log buildings. After the introduction of
the free school system four school districts were formed, and
houses erected in each of them, at a cost of Sl,'275.00.
Probably the first mill put up in the county was that
built by John Hutchings, about 1820. It was of the band
or tug sweep style, and ground corn only. Hutchings built
it for tie accommodation of his settlement, quite as much
as for profit. It was operated by two horses or a yoke of
oxen, and would grind as much as twenty-five bushels of
corn in a day. In 18-15, William Hutchings, Jr., built a
tread grist and saw mill combined, upon the old home-
stead place, on the bank of Beaucoup. He ground corn
and wheat and sawed lumber with it a number of years.
Joseph Todd & Sons put up a steam circular saw-mill on the
former's farm in 1854, at a cost of $2000. Hodges' horse-
power mill was built in 1857, and was afterwards turned into
a steam saw and grist mill. Crass' circular saw mill was
built in 1867 or 1868. In the earliest days of our settlement
the milling was done at Kaskaskia, Sparta or Murphy's
steam mill, on Beaucoup, in Washington county.
St Mary Magdalen's Church was built in 1869— a frame
structure, 24 by 40 feet. The congregation was organized
by Rev. Thomas Cuissic, in 1859.
The following are the first land entries in the precinct :
May 16, 1833, William Hutchings entered the E. half of
the N. E. quarter of section 24, 80 acres. March 1, 1837,
John Hutchings entered the N.E quarter of the S.E. quarter
of section 24, 40 acres. April 15, 1837, Joshua McRice
entered the N. half of the S. W. quarter of section 1, 80
acres. Same date, C. Mason entered the E. half of S. E.
quarter, section 2, 80 acres. Jan. 17, 1837, John McKason
entered the N. W. of the N. E. quarter of section 22, 33
acres.
Though the precinct possesses a productive soil and an
abundance of valuable timber, the future depends upon the
rich mines of coal, yet undeveloped, that underly its sur-
face.
475
PARTIAL LIST OF PATRONS
RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
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Randolph Co., Ill
Randolph Co., Ill
ShenandoahCoVa
Perry Co , Mo. .
Randolph Co., Ill
Germany ....
Gerniany ....
Randolph Co., Ill
Randolph Co., Ill
Germany ....
Germany ....
Posing, Ger . . .
Germany ....
Smytlie Co!, 'Tenii
Randolph Co., Ill
Germany ....
Randolph 'Co.,'lil
Germany ....
Randolph 'ca.'lil
Germany ....
Bondolph Co., Ill
St. Clair Co., Ill .
Randolph Co., HI
North Wales. . .
Randolph Co., Ill
Randolph Co., Ill
Suelzc Han'r.Oei
Randolph Co., II,
Gerniany ....
Chester Co., S. i
Randolph Co., Ill
Germany ....
Randolph 'co.,'lii
Hanover, Ger . .
Germany ....
Randolph Co., lii
Alabama
Crawford Co., 0 .
Late wife of Joseph Lively ....
Farmer and Carpenter
Wile of Charles H. F. Lindharsi .
Farmer
vy lie of Valentine Meyer
Wii,. of James McNnbnay . . . .
Wil, of Henry Schnoeker . . . .
1', 11, ral Merchandise
\\ il,. of Henry Schroeder. . . . .
\s il.. of Friedrick Sternberg . . .
\\ 11,- of Louis Sternberg
I'li.'i wife of Charles Tegtmeyer .
I'l, s,,iit wife of Charles 'legtnieyer
Fl 1 SI wileof Francis i'hiea . ! ! !
Present wife of Francis Thies . .
Wife of Amos Tag'gart .'.'.'.'.'.
c c
a>
1
3 t.
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1
3 ]
sS
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b i
.SI
II
Fanner
Wileof John Beare, Jr ....
Firttwifeof Joseph Hahn . .
Present wile of Joseph Hahn .
(Farmer and PrpT BfiiH' Ferry
Wileof B. B. ifarmon ....
Wileof Miciiael Kavanaligii .'
Farmer
1 Father of Hen'ry 4 Chiir's'Tilma
Motherof Henry* Char's Tilmn
Fanner. ....
Wile of Thurston Thomas . .
Farmer
Farmer
Wile of C. D. Wassell
iFurming
Farmer
Wileof John H.G. Clasen .
Relircd Farmer
Fanner and Justice of the Pe
Wile of Leonard t'risler . '.
Fanner and Stone Mason . .
Farmer
Wileof William H.Ebers .
Farmer and stock Raiser . .
Wile of Diedrich Heitmann
Karmor
Wile of Friedrick Hogralo .
Farmer
First wile of George Harmon
Present wife of George Harm
See. 13 . . .
Sec. 13 . . .
Survey 601 .
1807
Survey .'ail .
Sec. U . . .
Sec. 13 . . .
Survey 278 .
Survey 478 ,
Survey 478 .
1879
Survey 478 .
Survey 480 .
Survey 480 .
Survey 2u8 .
Survey '298 .
Survey 441 .
Survey 441 .
.cc
Sec. 32
Sec. 34
Sec. 34
See. 0 .
1881 . .
Sec. 35
Sec. 35
Blair .
1840. .
Sec. 18
occ. 18
Sec. 34
1803 . .
Sec. 20
Sec. 20
Sec. 22
Sec. 22
Sec. 22
Sec. 22
See. 19
1872 . .
Sec. 19
Sec. 0 .
1874. .
Sec. 0 .
Sec. 0 .
Sec. '20
Sec. -20
Sec. 25
1876 . .
Sec. 18
See. 18
Sec. 38
Sec. 30
Sec. 8 .
Sec. 8 .
See. 27
Sec. 27
Randolp
Randolp
Sec. 15
See. 15
Sec. 17
Sec. 17
Sec. 20
1803. .
Sec. 20
Sec. •M
1873. .
Sec. 20
Sec. 4 .
Sec. 4 .
Ellis Grove .
Modoc . . .
Died Aug. 6,
Modoc . . .
Ellis Grove .
Kaskaskia '.
Modoo . . '.
Died Mar. '2-2,
e Modoc . . .
Ellis Grive '.
Chester . . .
Bremen . . .
Bremen . . .
Blair ....
Died Dec. 17,
Brem,-ii . . .
Bremen . . .
Blair ....
Died Sept'br,
Diam'd Cross
Bremen . . .
Died June,
Bremen . . .
Diam'd Cross
Died Sept. 10
Diam'd Cross
Blair ....
Died Sept. 23,
Blair ....
Blair ....
Chester . . .
Chester . . .
Bremen . . .
Died Oct. 4
Diam'd Cross
Diam'd Cross
Welga. . . .
Welga. . . .
Diain'd Cross
Diam'd Cross
Bremen. . .
BlairJ ..'.'!
Bremen . . .
Died Feb. 14
Bremen. . .
Bremen . . .
Died Oct. 17
Bremen . . .
Blair ....
i'* il :::::::::::::::::: :
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TOWNSHIP 8 SOUTH, RANGE 5 WEST.
Uhii'Liz iliziM-'-iM
iiliili:
^- :'- -"-"^ ~.---^~ '-^^ ."Si: •§ •• • ■""=
Randolph Co., Ill
Wood Co., Vn . .
Randolph Co., Ill
Strasbiirg, Pa . .
Randolph Co., Ill
Ky . . . . " . ".
Randolph Co., Ill
Jackson Co., Ill .
Ireland
Ireland
England ....
Randolph Co., Ill
Randolph Co., Ill
Ky . . '^. . . '. .
Randolph Co., Ill
Paris, F"'rance . .
Mead Co,. Ky . .
Farmer
Wife OfDanielT. Malone
Father of J. P. Mathes
.Mother of J. P. Mathes
First wile of John Morrison.. . .
Present wife of John Morrison . .
Farmer
Wife of A. J. Opp
Wife of James Pickett
Fariii.M-
Wil,- ,.| William F. Reickenberg .
(Wife .1 Williiim Ruhrede
Pro|.ri..|. r .1 Miller Coal Mine . .
Wile..| u ,1 Rury
First U ,1. .1 (1. VI. Suesberry. . .
'Present .iiio of G. W. Suesberry. .
Farmer
VVifo of William H. Stephens . . .
w"il'e of R.H. Short'. '. .' .' .' '. '. '.
Proprietor of Alma Mills
Father of E. F.. Stinde
Mother of E. P. Stinde
Father of John F. Thomas
j.Mother of John F. Thomas . . .
Pro. & Owner of Alma Woolen Mills
Wife of John H. Thies
[Wife of Gottlieb Weber
[Farmer
First wife of Henry Woberling . .
.Second wife of Henry Weherling .
Present wife of Henry Weherling
Farmer and Stock Rearer
Iwife of Aaron Wilson. ... . . .
IGeueral Blacksmith
Farmer and Stock Raiser
Wife of Frank W. Crain
Father of Frank W. Crain ....
Motherof Frank W. Crain ....
Physician and Surgeon
Late wife of M. W.CIendinen . . .
Farmer
Father of j.' H. 4 B.' H. 'cieiidiiieii
Mother of J. H. A B. H. Clendinen
Blacksmith 4 Dl'r in Agri'l implts
v\ife of John L. Crane
Retired
Late wife of Thomas Kelly ....
Wife of Benjamin Richards . . .
First wife of B. F. .Sebastian . . .
[Present wife of B. F. Sebastian . .
Farmer
iFirst wife of John Tudor
ILate wife of John Tudor
1
1861
18159 . . .
Steeiesville .
Sec. 34. . . .
Sec. 34. . . .
.Sec. 1 . . . .
Sec. 1 . . . .
Steeiesville .
.Sec. 27.. . !
Sec. '22. . . .
Sec. 22. . . .
1870
Sec. 15 . . . .
Steeiesville .
Sec. a. . . '.
Sec. 8 . . . .
Sec. 30 . . . .
Sec. 'l9. '. '. '.
Sec. 19. . . .
Steeiesville .
Sec. 8 . . . .
Sec. 8 . . . .
Sec. 33 . . .
Sec. 33 . . .
Rockwood
1881
Sec. 0 . . . .
ISec. 0 . . . .
'1881
1 1880
Rockwood
Sec. 8 . . . !
1872
1808
Sec. 4 . . . .
1880
Sec. 9 . .
Sec. 9 . .
Sec. 13. .
Sec. 13..
Sec. 13. .
See. 22. .
Sec. 22 . .
Sec. 10. .
1804 . . .
Sec. 10. .
Percy . .
Steelesvi'll
See. 6 . .
Sec. 5 . . ,,
See. 9 . .
See. 9 . .
See. 14. .
Sec. 14 . .
SteelesvUl« .
Percy ....
Steeiesville '.
Died Jan. 7,
Steeiesville .
Percy ....
SteelesTille °.
Percy ....
Died Sept. 24,
Died Mar. 1
Steeiesville .
Percy ....
Steeiesville ■
Died Feb. 2
Steeiesville .
Died . . . . ;
Died
Steeiesville .
Rockwood .
Died Jan. 18
Rockwood .
Died July 6
Died Feb. 28
Rockwood .
Died July 6
Rockwooil .
Died March,'
Rockwood .
Died Febru'y
Died Febru'y
Crain, Frank W
Coiiti'ut E. ClendineD. .
Criiin. .Iiiines
Criiiii.l'li.be (nee Morris)
CI liii.-ii, M. W . . . .
Lyilii A- Wagner ....
Cl,-i,.lii„i,, J.H
Cli-ii.liii,ii, B. H ....
Cl.ii„liii,ii,JohnH. . . .
Cl.-ii,lii,,ii, Mary E. (nee
Craii... .lohn L . (Vickera
Margaret Ann Burns . .
Kelly, Thomas
Elizabeth Kelly (nee An-
Richards, Benj . (derson
Marget A. Clendinen . .
Sebastian, B. F
Alevie Underhill ....
Sophia Lawder
Tudor. John
Eliza Richards
Mary A. Barnfield . . .
Malone, Daniel T . . .
Loui.<a Lickiss
Mathes, J. P
Mathes, Leonard . . .
Mathes, L. S
Myer, Henry
Mary Summer
Morrison, John ....
Mahala Steele. . (Simon
Lurana E. Brown (ne
Ellen Cross
Pickett, James
Martha Ann Jay. . . .
Reickenberg, William F
Emma C. S. Voges. . .
Ruhrede, William . . .
Louisa Rosenthal . . .
Rury, W.J
Suson P. Worley. . . .
Ellen A. Brown ....
Anna E. Brown ....
Rachel E. Tindnll . . .
Stephens, William H .
Indiana Minter ....
Short, H.H
Su.«an C. Bigelow . . .
Stinde, E. F
Stinde, H. F. . . (Sliver
.Stinde, Mary E. (ne
Steele, James C
Trinka, Ignalz
Ada E. llarnian ....
Thomas, lohn F. . . .
Thomas, Pliimer (Dobb
Thomas, Mary A. (ne
Thies, John H
Ann F. W. H. Stahlberg
i Matilda Sheck
Woberling, Henry . . .
Doras Missel horn . . .
Wi.helmine.Nuderbrach
(nee Kirchhof) . . .
Dora Hyer (nee Clouser
Wilson, Aaron
Lena Runife
3
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Monroe Co., Ill .
Germany ....
Germany ....
Gerninny ....
Germany ....
Germany ....
Germwny ....
Germany ....
I
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First wile of Emil Bereer. . .
Present wife of Emil Berger .
Grain Dealer
First wife of W. D. Druce . .
Present wife of W. D. Druce .
Pastor St. Patrick's Church . .
Farmer
Late wife of Louie Grossmann
Farmer and Stock Raiser . .
Wife of Henry Schneider . . .
Farmer and Stock Raiser . . .
Wife of Christian Von Ende .
1 :||illlillll
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wife of HenryNiebi^uegge
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of William 'f: Bamber
her
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of William' C'. Cairns'
wife of Green Crowde
id wife of Grcn Crow
J wife of Green Crowde
nt wife of Green Crow
ng Machine Agent , .
of Charles F. W. Doerr
wife of'c'hirles Flarka
of Saloon & Boarding
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hantand Farmer . .
of Thomas C. James
cian and Surgeon . ..
of William A. James
ician and Surgeon . .
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rietor Monroe i:ity Mill
of Valentine Lupfer
ietor Hotel and Saloon
of Matthis Laubenthal
ietor of Saloon . . .
of John Ladner . . .
ral Blaoksmithing . .
of John Markle . . .
A Agt for an kinds of Agric
of Charles Mokop .
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CONSTITUTION OF ILLINOIS.
Adopted in Convention at Springfield, May 13, a. d. 1870; Ratified by the People July 2, 1870; in
FoKCE, August 8/ 1870 ; and Amendments thereto, with the Dates of Ratification.
PREAMBLE.
We, the people of the t^tate of Illinois — pratefiil to Almighty
God fortlie civil, political and religious liberty which He hath so
long permitted us to enjoy, and looking to Him for a blessing
upon our endeavors to secure and transmit the same unimpaired
to succeeding generations — in order to form a more perfect gov-
ernment, establish justice, insure domestic trancjuillity, provide
for the common defense, jiromiite tlie general welfare, and secure
the blessings of liberty to ourselves and our posterity ; do ordain
and establish this constitution for Uie State of Illinois.
ARTICLE L
BOUNDARIES.
The boundaries and jurisdiction of the State shall be as fol-
lows, to wit : Beginning at the mouth of tbe Wabash river ;
thence up the same, and with the line of Indiana, to the nortli-
west corner of said State; thence east, with the line of the same
State, to the middle of Lake Michigan; thence north, along the
middle of said lake, to north latitude 42 degrees and 30 minutes ;
thence west to the middle of the Mississippi river, and thence
down along the middle of that river to its confluence with the
Ohio river, and thence up the latter river, along its northwestern
shore, to the place of beginning : Provided, that this State .shall
c.Kercise such jurisdiction upon the Ohio river as she is now
entitled to, or such as may hereafter be agreed upon by this
State and tbe State of Kentucky.
ARTICLE II.
BILL OF RIGHTS.
1. Inherent and In..ilienable Rights.
■Z. Due Process of Law.
;i. LilxjrtyofConsoicneeGuamnteed.
4. Freedom of the Pro.«s-LibeI.
,■). Riglit of Trial by Jury.
C. Unreasonable Searches and Seiz-
7. Bail allowed — Writ of Habeas Cor-
D«9.
— Grand Jury
Accused of
8. Indictment requir
Abolished.
9. Rights of Persoi
tion— Forfeili
a 12. Imprisonment for Debt.
I 13. Compensation for Property take
g 14. Ex post facto laws— Irrevocab
J LI. Milit.irv'lv.u.r SnlKi.linutu.
3 10. Quart. 'liiiL- -I >.iMi, ,s.
Sl7. Right . if \--. ii.l.lv ;..,,! l'etili..n
ns. Elccti .ii~ f" I.. K..- :iu.l Equal.
] 19. What l-.iuw ..iislit I" I.e.
^20. Fundamental Principles.
? 1. All men are by nattare free and independent, and have
certain inliereiU and inalienable rights — among these are life,
liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. To .secure these rights
and the protection of property, governme-it« are instituted among
men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the gov-
erned.
I 2. No person shall be deprived of life, liberty or property,
without (\\H'. process of law.
I 3. The free exercise and enjoyment of religious profession
and worshij), without discrimination, shall forever be guaranteed ;
and no person shall be denied any civil or political right, privi-
lege or capacity, on account of his religious opinions; but the
liberty of conscience hereby secured shall not be construed to
dispense with oaths or affirmations, e.\cuse acts of licentiousness,
or justify practices inconsistent with the peace or safety of the
State. No person shall be required to attend or support any min-
istry or place of worship against his consent, nor shaU any pref-
erence be given by law to any religious denomination or mode of
worship.
? 4. Every person may freely speak, write and publish on all
subjects, being responsible for the abu.se of that liberty; and in
all trials for libel, both civil and criminal, the truth, when pub-
lished with good motives and for justifiable ends, shall be a suffi-
cient defense.
I 5. The right of trial by jury as heretofore enjoyed shall re-
main inviolate; but the trial of civil cases before justices of the
peace by a jury of less than twelve men, may be authorized by law.
i 6. The right of the peojile to be secure in their persons,
h»uses, papers and clfccts, against unreasonable searches and
seizures, shall iint lie viulatcd ; and no warrant shall issue with-
out probable cause, supiiorted by affidavit, particularly describ-
ing the place to be searched, and the person or things to be
seized.
I 7. All persons shall be bailable by sufficient sureties, except
for capital offenses, where the proof is evident or the presump-
tion great; and the privilege of the writ of habeas corpus sliall
not be suspended, unless when in cases of rebellion or invasicm
the public safety may reijuire it.
i 8. No person shall be _ held to answer for a criminal offense,
unless on indictment of a grand jury, except in cases in which
the punishment is by fine, or imprisonment otherwise than in the
jienitentiary, in cases of imiwaehmcnt, and^in cases arising in tin-
army and navy, or in the militia when in actual service in time
of war or public danger : Provided, that the grand jury may be
abolished by law in all cases.
I 9. In all criminal prosecutions, the accused shall have the
right to appear and defend in person and by counsel ; to demand
the nature and cause of the accusation, and to have a copy there-
of; to meet tht^ witnesses face to face, and to have process to
compel the attendance of witnesses in his behalf, and a speedy
public trial by an impartial jury of the county or district in which
the oti'ense is alleged to have been committed.
^ 10. No person shall be compelled in any criminal case to give
evidence against himself, or be twice put in jeopardy for the same
offense.
? 11. All penalties .shall be iiroportioned to the nature of the
offense ; and no conviction shall work corruption of blood of for-
feiture of e.state ; nor shall any [>ersim be transported out or the
State for any offense cumniittcd within the same.
i 12. No person shall be imprisoned for debt, unless upon re-
fusal to deliver up his estate for the benefit of his creditors, in
such manner as shall be prescribed by law; or in cases where
there is strong presum])tion of fraud.
I 13. Private property .shall not be taken or damaged for public
use without just compensation. Such compensation, when not
made by the State, shall be ascertained by a jury, as shall be pre-
scribed by law. The fee of land taken for railroad tr.aeks, with-
out consent of the owners thereof, shall remain in such owners,
subject to the use for which it is taken.
i 14. No ex post faeto law, or law impairing the obligation of
contracts, or making any irrevocable grant of special privileges or
immunities, shall be p.assed.
§ 1.5. The military shall be in strict subordination to the civil
power.
i 16. No soldier shall, in time of peace, be quartered in any
house without the consent of the owner ; nor in time of war ex-
cept in the manner prescribed by law.
i 17. The people have the right to assemble in a peaceable
manner to consult for the common good, to make known their
opinions to their representatives, and to apply for redress of griev-
ances.
§ 18. All elections shall be free and eipial.
^ 19. f>cry person ought to find a certain remedy in the laws
for all injuries and wrongs which he may receive in his person,
property or reputation ; he ought to obtain, by law, right and
justice freely, and without being obliged to purchase it, completely
and without denial, promptly and without delay.
1
494
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
I 20. A frequent occurrence to the fundamental principles of
civil government is absolutely necessary to preserve the blessings
of liberty.
ARTICLE III.
DISTKIIJUTION OF POWERS.
The powers of the Government of this State are divided into
three distinct departments — the Legislative, Executive and Ju-
dicial ; and no person, or collection of persons, being one of these
departments, shall exercise any power properly belonging to
either of the others, except as hereinafter expressly directed or
permitted.
ARTICLE IV.
LEGISLATIVE DEPAKTMENT.
2 1. ,;..:.. ,1 \ nMyc-lcftiv.-. ig IS. IH-^liii ii> Ixi-n.- ^.-Ui.lDefi-
Extended.
]ioa.lnr.;-l'n.umg-Title-
PriviU^ecs of members.
lii?;ibilitieB of members.
Hills TiiaUing Appropriatii
Payment of money— SI
of Expenses.
g m. Cuueeruiug Kuads — public and pri-
vate.
? :il. Draining and Ditching.
^ .^2. Homestead and Exemption Laws.
i 'Si. Completiou of the State House.
I 1. The legislative power shall be vested in a General As-
sembly, which shall consist of a Senate and House of Repre-
sentatives, both to be elected by the people.
I 2. An election for members of the Gemrnl .\ssombly shall
be held on the Tuesday next after the tii^t MniHlny in November,
in the year of our Lord one tlKUisand eiij,lit liiiniln d and seventy,
and every two years thereafter, in each county, nt such places
therein as may be provided by law. When vacancies occur in
either house, "the governor, or pensou exercising the powers of
governor, shall issue writs of election to fill such vacancies.
ELIGIIilLITY AND OATH.
I 3. No person shall be a senator who shall not have attained
the age of twenty-five years, or a representative who shall not
have attained the age of twenty-one years. No person shall be
a senator or a representative who shall not be a citizen of the
United States, and who shall not have been for five years a resi-
dent of this State, and for two years next preceding his election
a resident within the territory forming the district from which he
is elected. No judge or clerk of any court, secretary of state,
attorney general, state's attorney, recorder, sheriff, or collector of
public revenue, member of eitiier house of congress, or person
holding any lucrative office under the United States or this State,
or any foreign government, shall have a seat in the general as-
sembly : Provided, that appointments in the militia, and the offi-
ces of notary public and justice of the peiiee, shall not be con-
sidered lucrative. Nor shall any person, holding any otfiee of
honor or profit under anv fi.rei_'n CT.vernment, or under the gov-
ernment of the United Stat.s, i, \i r|.t postmasters whose annual
compensation does not cxr.r.l tli. sum of $300,) hold any office
of honor or profit under the autliunty of this State.
§ 4. No person who has been, or hereafter shall be, convicted
of bribery, perjury or other infamous crime, nor any person wdio
has been or may be a collector or holder of public moneys, who
shall not have accounted for and paid over, according to law, all
such moneys due from him, shall be eligible to the general as-
sembly, orto any office of profit or trust in this State.
I 6. Members of the general assembly, before they enter upon
their official duties, shall take and subscribe the following oath
or affirmation :
"I do solemnly swear (or affirm) that I will support the constitution of the
United States, and the constitution of the State of Illinois, and will faithfully
v.ooharge the duties of senator (or representative) according to (he best of my
ability; and that I have not, knowingly or intentionall.v, paid or contributed
anything, or made any promise in the nature of a bribe, to directly or mdi-
rectly influence any vote at the election at which I was chosen to till the said
office, and have not accepted, nor will I accept or receive, directly or mdireot-
ly, any money or other valuable thing, from any corporation, company or per-
son, for any vote or influence I may give or withhold on any bill, resolution or
appropriation, or for any other official act."
This oath shall be administered by a judge of the supreme or
circuit court, in the hall of the house to which the member is
elected, and the secretary of state shall record and file the oath
subscribed by each member. Any member who shall refuse to
to take the oath herein prescribed, shall forfeit his office, and
every member who shall be convicted of having sworn falsely to,
or of violating, his said oath, shall forfeit his office, and be dis-
qualified thereafter from holding any office of profit or trust in
this State.
APPORTIONMENT — SENATORIAL.
? 6. The general assembly shall apportion the State every ten
years, beginning with tlic year 1.S71, by dividing the population
of the State, as ascertaiiieirby the federal census, by the number
51, and the quotient shall be the ratio of representation in the
senate. The State shall be divided into 51 senatorial districts,
each of wliich shall elect one senator, whose term of office shall
be four years. The senators elected in the year of our Lord 1872,
in districts bearing odd numbers, shall vacate their offices at the
end of two years, and those elected in districts bearing even num-
bers, at the end of four years; and vacancies occurring by the
expiration of term, shallbe filled by the election of senatoi's for
the full term. Senatorial districts shall be formed of contiguous
and compact territory, bounded by county lines, and contain as
nearly as practicable an equal number of inhabitants; but no
district shall contain less than four-fit'ths of the senatorial ratio.
Counties containing not less than the ratio and three-fourths,
may be divided into separate districts, and shall be entitled to
two senators, and to one additional senator for each number of
inhabitants equal to the ratio, contained by such counties in ex-
cess of twice the number of said ratio.
Note— Bv the adoption of minority representati.
cease to be a part of the constitution. Un<U
of adoption, the following section relating to minority representation
tuted lOT said sections :
UnderTl2'of'Vfie'schedule, and tl'ie vote
bsti-
MINORITY REPRESENTATION.
ll~ and S. Tlie house of representatives shall consist of three
times the number of the members of the senate, and the term of
ofliee sliall be two years. Three representatives shall be elected
in each senatorial district at the general election in the year of
our Lord, 1872, and every two years thereafter. In all elections
of representatives aforesaid, each qualified voter may cast as
many votes for one candidate as there are representatives to be
elected, or may distribute the same, or equal jjarts thereof, among
the candidates, as he shall .see fit; and the candidates highest in
votes shall be declared elected.
TIME OF MEETING AND GENERAL RULES.
I 9. The sessions of the general assembly shall commence at
12 o'clock, noon, on the Wednesday next after the first Monday
in January, in the ye.ar next ensuiifg the election of members
thereof, and at no other time, unless as provided by this consti-
tution. A majority of the members elected to each house shall
constitute a quorum. Each house shall determine the rules of
its proceedings, and be the judge of the election returns and
qualifications of its members; shall choose its own officers; and
the senate shall choose a temporary president to preside when
the lieutenant-governor shall not attend as president or shall act
as governor. The secretary of state shall call the house of repre-
sentatives to order at the opening of each new assembly, and
preside over it until a temporary presiding officer thereof shall
have been chosen and shall have taken his seat. No member
shall be expelled by either house, except by a vote of two-thirds
of all the members elected to that house, and no member shall
be twice expelled for the same offence. Each house may punish
by imprisonment any person, not a member, who shall be guilty
of disrespect to the "house by disorderly or contemptuous beha-
viour in its presence. But nosuch imprisonment shall extend be-
yond two hours at one time, unless the person shall persist in
such disorderly or contemptuous behaviour.
? 10. The doors of each house and of committees of the whole,
shall be kept open, except in such cases as, in the opinion of the
house, require secrecy. Neither house shall, without the consent
of the other, adjourn for more than two days, or to any otlier
place than that in which the two houses shall be sitting. Each
house shall keep a journal of its proceedings, which shall be pub-
lished. In the senate at the request of two members, and i» the
house at the request of five members, the yeas and nays shall be
taken on any question, and entered upon the journal. Any two
MISTORY OF RANDOLPB, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
495
members of either house shall have liberty to dissent from and
protest, in respectful lansruage, against any act or resolution which
they think injurious to tlie public or to any individual, and have
the reasons of their dissent entered upon the journals.
STYLE OF LAWS AXD PASSAGE OF BILLS.
? 11. The style of the laws of this State shall be : Be it en-
acled by the People of the State of Jllinois, represented in the Gen-
eral Assemhlij.
? 12. Bills may orifrinate in either house, but may be altered,
amended or rejected by the other ; and on the final p;L<sage of all
bills, the vote sliall be by yeas and nays, upon each bill sepa-
rately, and sh.ill be entered upon the journal ; and no bill shall
become a law without the concurrence of a majority of the mem-
bers elected to each hou>e.
i, l:!. Every bill shall be read at large on three different days,
in each house ; and the bill an<l all amendments thereto shall be
printed before the vote is taken on its final passage ; and every
bill, having passed both houses, shall be signed by the speakers
thereof. No act here;iftcr passed shall embrace more than one
subject, and th.it sli.ill be expressed in the title. Cut if any sub-
ject sh.ill be embraced in an act which shall not be expressed in
the title, such act shall be void only as to so much thereof as
shall not be .so expres.sed ; and no laws"haU be revived or amended
by reference to its title only, but the law revived, or the section
amended, shall be inserted .it length in the new act. And no act
of the general assembly shall take effect until the first day of
July next after its pass.age, unless, in case of emergency, (whidi
emergency shall be expressed in the preambleor body of the act),
the gencr.il assembly shall, by a vote of two-thirds of all the
members elected to each house, otherwise direct.
PKIVILKOES .VXD PISAI!ILITIF.S.
? 14. Sen.itors and representatives shall, in all casc«, except
trcas:in, felony or breach of the peace, be privileged from arrest
during the session of tlie general assembly, and in going to and
returning from the same; and for any speech or debate in either
house, they shall not be questioned in any other place.
? 15. No person elected to the general assembly shall receive
any civil appointment within this State from the governor, the
governor and senate, or from the general assembly, during the
term for which he shall have been elected ; and all such appoint-
ments, and all votes given for any such members for any such
offices or appointment, shall be void ; nor shall any member of
the general .issembly be interested, either directly or indirectly,
in anv contract with the state, or any county thereof, authorized
by any l.iw passed during the term lor which he shall have been
elected, or within one year after the expiration thereof.
PUBLIC MONEYS AXD APPROPRIATIONS.
I IG. The general assembly shall make no appropriation of
money out of the treasury in any private law. Bills making aji-
propriations for the pay of members and officers orthe general
assembly, and for the salaries of the officers of the government,
shall contain no provisions on any other subject.
•\? 17. No money shall be drawn from the treasury except in
pursuance of an appropriation made by law, and on the presenta-
tion of a w.arrant issued by the auditor thereon ; and no money
shall be diverted from any appropriation made for any purpose,
or taken from any fund whatever, either by joint or separate
resolution. The auditor shall, within 60 days after the adjourn-
ment of each session of the general assembly, prepare and pub-
lish a full statement of all money expended at such session, spe-
cifying the amount of each item, and to whom and for what
paid.
1 18. Each general .issembly shall provide for all appropriations
necessary for the ordinary and contingent expenses of the govern-
ment until the expiration of the first fiscal quarter after the adjourn-
ment of the next regular session, the aggregate amount of which
shall not be increa.-ied without a vote of two-thirds of the mem-
bers elected to each house, nor exceed the amount of revenue au-
thorized by law to be raised in such time ; and all appropriations,
general or special, refjuiring money to bo paid out of the State
Treasury, from funds belonging to the State, shall end with such
fiscal quarter : Provi'lerl, the State may, to meet casual deficits or
failures in revenue, contract debts, never to exceed in the aggre-
gate $250,000; and moneys thus borrowed shall be apjilied to
the purpose for which they were obtained, or to pay the debt thus
created, and to no other purpose ; and no other debt, except for
the purpose of repelling invasion, suppressing insurrection, or
defending the State in war, (for payment or which the faith of
the State shall be pledged), shall be contracted, unless the law
authorizing the same shall, at a general election, h.ive been sub-
mitted to the people, and have received a majority of the votes
c;ist for members of the general assembly .it such election. The
general assembly shall provide for the publication of said law for
three months, at least, before the vote of the people shall be
taken upon the same; and provision shall be inade, at the time,
for the pavment of the interest annually, as it shall accrue, by a
tax levieA for the purpose, or from other sources of revenue;
wliicli law, providing for the payment of such interest by such
tax, .shall be irrepealable until such debt be paid: And proridcd
further, that the law levying the tax shall be submitted to the
"people with the law authorizing the debt to be contracted.
i 19. The general assembly shall never grant or authorize extra
compensation, fee or allowance to any public off.t er, agent, ser-
vant or contractor, after service has been rendered or a contract
made, nor authorize the payment of any claim, or part thereof,
hereafter created .against the State under any agreement or con-
tract made without express authority of law: and all such un-
authorized agreements or eontr.icts shall be null and void: Pro-
vided, the general assembly may make appropriations fiir expendi-
tures incurred in supjires-iiig insurrection or repelling invasion.
J 20. The State shall never pay, assume or become responsible
for the debts or liabilities of, or in any manner give, loan or ex-
tend its credit to, or in aid of any public or other corporation,
association or individual.
PAY OF MEMBERS.
? 21. The members of the general a.ssembly shall receive for
their services the sum of $8 per day, during the first session held
under this constitution, and 10 cents for each mile necessarily
traveled in going to and returning from the seat of government,
to be computed by the auditor of jmblic acccmnts ; and thereafter
such compensation as shall be prescribed by law, and no other
allowance or emolument, directly or indirectly, for any puroose
whatever; except i'JO per session to each member, which shall
be in full for postage, stationery, newspapers, and all other inci-
dental expenses and i)er<iuisites ; but no change shall be made
in the compensation of members of the general assembly during
the term for which they may have been elected. The pay and
mileage allowed to each member of the general assembly shall
be certified by the speaker uf their respective houses, and entered
on the journals and published at the close of each session.
SPECIAL LEOISLATIOX PROHIBITED.
2 22. The general assembly shall not pass local or special laws
in any of the following enumerated cases, that is to say: for —
Granting divorces;
Changing the names of persons or places ;
Laying out, opening, altering, and worl.ing roads or highways ;
V.acating roads, town plats, streets, alleys and public grounds ;
Locating or changing county seats ;
Regulating county and township affairs ;
Regulating the practice in courts of justice ;
Re^'ulating the jurisdiction and duties of justices of the peace,
Dolice magistrates, and constables ;
Providing for change of venue in civil and criminal cairs.
Incorporating cities, towns, or villages, or changing or amend-
ing the charter of any town, city or vill.ige ;
Providing for the election of members of the board of super-
visors in township's incorporated towns or cities;
Summoning and empaneling grand or petit juries;
Providing tor the management of common schools;
Regulating the rate of interest on money ;
The opening and conducting of any election, or designating
the place of voting ;
The sale or mortgage of real estate belonging to minors or
others under disability ;
The protection of game or fish;
Chartering or licensing ferries or toll bridges ;
Remitting fines, penalties or forfeitures ;
Creating, increasing, or decreasing fees, percentage or allow-
ances of public officers, during the term for which said officers,
are elected or appointed ;
Changing the law of descent;
(Iranting to anv corporation, a.«sociation or individual the right
to lay down railroad tracks, or amending existing charters for
such purpose;
3
496
msTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Granliiiir to iiny corporation, association or individual any spe-
cial or exclusive privilege, immunity or franchise whatever ;
In all other cases where a general law can be made applicable,
no special law shall be enacted ;
J 23. The general assembly shall have no power to release or
extinguish, in whole or in part, the indebtedness, liability, or ob-
ligation of any corporation or individual to this State or to any
municipal corporation therein.
IMrEAClIMF.XT.
{ 24. The house of representatives sh.ill have the sole power of
impeachment ; but a majority of all the membei-s elected must
concur theri'in. All im|)eaehments shall be tried by the senate ;
and when sitting lor that jmrpose, the senators shall be upon
oath, or alhrmation. to do ju.-ticc according to law and evidence.
When the governor of the State is tried, the chief justice shall
preside. No person shall be convicted without the concurrence of
two-thirds of the senators elected. But judgment, in such cases,
shall not extend further than removal from otfice, and disqualili-
cation to hold any oftiee of honor prolit or trust under the gov-
ernment of this State. Tlic party, whether convicted or acquit-
ted, sh.ill nevertheless, be liable to prosecution, trial, judgment
and punishment according to law.
MISCELLANEOUS.
i 2.'>. The general assembly shall provide, by law, thnt the fuel,
stationery and printing-paper furnished for the use of the State ;
the copying, printing, binding and distributing the laws and
journals, and all other printing ordered by the general assembly,
shall be let by contract to the lowest responsible bidder; but the
general assemblv shall fix a maximum price ; and no member
thereof or other' officer of the State, shall be interested, directly
or indirectlv, in such contract. But all such contracts shall be
subject to the approval of the governor, and if he disapproves
the same there shall be a re-letting of the contract, in such man-
ner as shall be prescribed by law. c,
i 26. The State of Illinois shall never be made defendant in
any court or law of equity.
I 27. The general assembly shall have no power to authorize
lotteries or gift enterprises, for any purpose, and shall pass laws
to prohibit the sale of lottery or gift enterprise tickets in this
State.
g 28. No law shall be p.assed which shall operate to extend the
term of anv public officer after his election or appointment.
§ 29. It shall be the duty of the general assembly to pass such
laws as may be necessary for the protection of operative miners,
by providing for ventilation, when the same may be required, and
the construction of escapement-shafts, or such other appliances
as may secure safety in all coal mines, and to provide for the en-
forcement of said laws by such penalties and punishments as
may be deemed proper.
? 30. The general assembly may provide for establishing and
opening roads and cart-ways, connected with a public road, for
private and public use.
g 31. The general assembly may pass laws permitting the own-
ers and occtipants of lands to construct drains and ditches, for
agricultural and sanitary purposes, across the lands of others.
I 32. The general assembly shall pass liberal and homestead
and exemption laws.
i 33. The general assembly shall not appropriate out of the
State treasury, or expend on account of the new rai>itol grounds,
and construction, completion and furnishing of the State-house, a
sum exceeding in the aggregate, $3,50l),tKl(l, inclusive of all ap-
propriations heretofore made, without first submitting the propo-
sition for an additional expenditure to the legal voters of the
State, at a general election ; nor unless a majority of all the votes
at such election shall be for the proposed additional expenditure.
ARTICLE V.
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT.
Pf^pnrtmont. ? 14. Governor as Commander-in-Chief.
^ l.^i. Impeachment for Misdemeanor.
i ir,. Veto of the Governor.
~f 17. Lieutenant-Governor as Governor.
3 18. As President of the .Senate.
f 10. Vacancy in Governor's C)fliee.
^ 20. Vacancy in other State Offices.
? 21. Reports of State Officers.
) 22. Great Seal of State.
^ 23. Fees and Salaries.
i 24. Definition of " Office."
i 25. Oath of Civil Officers.
. Convenin
. Prorogiii
. Nominati
. Vacancie
. Removal;
., RoprieTC!
ons bv the Governor.
9 mav be filled.
! bv the Governor.
I, Commutations, Pardons
EXECUTIVE DEPARTMENT.
? 1. The executive department shall consist of a Governor,
Lieutenant-Governor, Secretary of State, Auditor of Public Ac-
counts, Treasurer, Su|ierintendent of Public Instruction, and At-
torney-General, who shall each with the exception of the Treas-
urer, hold his otfice fur the term of four years from the second
Monday of January next after his election, and until his succes-
sor is elected and qualified. They shall, except the Lieutenant
Governor, reside at the seat of Government during their term of
office, and keep the public records, books and papers there, and
shall perform such duties as may be prescribed by law.
§ 2. The Treasurer shall hold his office for the term of two
years, and until his successor is elected and qualified ; and shall
"be ineligible to said office for two years next after the end of the
term for which he was elected. He may be required by the Gov-
ernor to give reasonable additional security, and in delault of so
doing his office shall be deemed vacant.
ELECTION.
§ 3. An election fcfr Governor, Lieutenant-Governor, Secretary
of State, Auditor of Public Accounts and Attorney-General, shall
be held on the Tuesday next after the first Monday in November,
in the vear of our Lord 1872, and every four years thereafter ;
for Superintendent of Public Instruction, on the Tuesday next
after the first Monday of November, in the year 1870, and every
four vears thereafter; and for Treasurer on the day last above
mentioned, and every two years thereafter, at such places and in
such manner as may be prescribed by law.
? 4. The returns of every election for the above named officers
shall be scaled up and transmitted, by the returning officers, to
the Secretary of State, directed to " The Speaker of the House
of Representatives," who shall, immediately after the organiza-
tion of the house, and before proceeding to other business, open
and publish the same in the presence of a majority of each house
of the general assembly, who shall, for that purpose, assemble in
the hall of the house of representatives. The person having the
highest number of votes for either of the said offices shall be de-
clared duly elected ; but if two or more have an equal and the
highest number of votes, the general assembly shall, by joint
ballot, choose one of such persons for said office. Contested
elections for all of said offices shall be determined by both houses
of the general assembly, by joint ballot, in such manner as may
be prescribed by law.
ELIGIBILITY.
? 5. No ^5erson shall be eligible to the office of governor, or
lieutenant-governor, who shall not have attained the age of 30
years, and been, for five vears next preceding his election, a citi-
zen of the United States and of this State. Neither the gover-
nor, lieutenant-governor, auditor of public accounts, secretary of
State, superintendent of public instruction nor attorney general
shall be eligible to any other office during the period for which
he shall have been elected.
GOVERNOR.
I G. The supreme executive power shall be vested in the gov-
ernor, who shall take care that the laws be faithfully executed.
i 7. The governor shall, at the commencement of each se.ssion,
and at the close of his term of office, give to the general assembly
information, by message, of the condition of the State, and shall
recommend such measures as he shall deem expedient. He shall
account to the general assembly, and accompany his message
with a statement of all moneys received and paid out by him
from any funds subject to his order, with vouchers, and at the
commencement of each regular session, present estimates of the
amount of money required to be raised by taxation for all pur-
poses.
J 8. The governor m.iy, on extraordinary occasions, convene
the general assembly, by proclamation, stating therein the pur-
pose for which they are convened; and the general assembly
shall enter upon no business except that for which they were
called together.
S 9. In case of a disagreement between the two houses with
respect to the time of adjournment, the governor may, on the
same being certified to him, by the house first moving the ad-
journment, adjourn the general assembly to such time as bethinks
proper, not bevond the first day of thenext regular session.
I 10. The governor shall nominate, and by and with the advice
and consent of the senate, (a majority of all the senators elected
concurring, by yeas and nays,) appoint all officers whose offices
4
niSTORY OF RAXDOLPII, MOXROE ASD PERRY COUSTIES, ILLINOIS.
497
are established by this constitution, or which may be created by
hivv, and whose appointment or election is not otherwise provided
for ; and no such officer shall be appointed or elected by the gen-
eral assembly.
I 11. In case of a vacancy, during the recess of the senate, in
any office which is not elective, the governor shall make a tem-
porary appointment until the next meeting of the senate, when
lie shall nominate some person to fill such office ; and any person
so nominated, who is confirmed by the senate (a majority of all
the senators elected concurring by yesis and nays I, shall hold his
office during the remainder of the time, and until his successor
shall be appointed and (pialified. No i)erson, after being rejected
by the senate, shall be again nominated for the same office at the
same session, unless at the request of the senate, or be appointed
to the same office during the recess of the general assembly.
I VI. The governor shall have power to remove any officer
whom he may appoint, in case of incompetency, neglect of duty,
or malfeasance in oflice ; and he may declare his office vacant,
and fill the same as is herein provided in other cases of vacancy.
J 1.3. The governor shall have power to grant repriovi's, com-
mutations and pardons, after conviction, for all otl'ences, subject
to such regulations as may be provided by law relative to the
manner of a[)plying therefor.
J 14. The governor shall be commander-in-chief of the mili-
tary and naval forces of the State (except when they shall be
called into the service of the I'nited States) ; and may. c;;ll i.c.t
the same to execute the laws, suppress insurrection, and rcjit 1
invasion.
I !■'). The governor, and all civil officers of this State, shall be
liable to impeachment for any misdemeanor in office.
5 IG. Every bill passed by tlie general a.ssembly idiall, before it
becomes a law, be presented to the governor. If he approve, he
shall sign it, and thereupon it shall become a law ; but if he do
not approve, he .shall return it, with his objections, to the house
in which it shall have originated, which house shall enter the
objections at large upon its journal, and proceed to reconsider the
bill. If, then, two-thirds of the mendx'rs elected agree to pass
the same, it shall be sent, together with the objections, to the
other house, by which it sludl likewise be reconsidered ; and if
approved by two-thirds of the members elected to that house, it
shall become a law, notwithstanding the objections of the gover-
nor. But in all such cases, the vote of each house shall be de-
tcrmin.'d by ycivs ami nays, to be entered on the journal. Any
bill which shall not be returned by the governor within ten days
(Sundays excepted) after it shall have been presented to him,
shall become a law in like manner as if he had signed it, unless
the general assend)ly shall, by their adjournment, prevent its re-
turn; ill which ca-se it shall" be filed, with his objections, in tlie
office of the secretary of State, within ten days after such adjourn-
ment, or become a law.
I.IEUTF-JJAXT-GOVF.RKOR.
J 17. In case of death, conviction or impeachment, failure to
qualitV, resignation, absence from the State, or other disability
of the governor, the powers, duties, the emoluments of the office
for the residue of the term, or until the di.sability shall be re-
moved, shall devolve upon the lieutenant-governor.
? IS. The lieutenant-governor shall be president of the senate,
and shall vote only when the senate is equally divided. The
srnatc shall choose a president, pro tempore, to preside in case of
the absence or impeachment of the lieutenant-governor, or when
he shall hold the office of governor.
J lit. If there be no lieutenant-governor, or if the lieutenant-
governor shall, for any of the causes specified in i 17 of this
article, become incapable of ]ierlbrming the duties of the oflice,
the president of the senate shall act as governor until the vacancy
is filled or the disability removed; and if the president of the
senate for any of the above named causes, shall become incapa-
ble of performing the duties of governor, the same shall devolve
upon the speaker of the house of representatives.
OTHER STATE OFFICERS.
3 20. If the office of auditor of ])ublic accounts, treasurer, scc-
ret'arv of State, attorney general, or suiierintendent of public in-
struction shall be vaca"ted by death, resignation or otherwise, it
shall be the duty of the governor to fill the same by appointment,
and the appointee shall hold his oflice until Id's successor shall
be elected ard qualified in euch manner as may be provided by
law. An account shall be kept by the officers of the executive
department, and of all the])ublic institutions of the State, of all
moneys received or disbursed by them, severally, (i-om all sources,
and for every service performed, and a^emi-annual report thereof
be made to the governor, under oath ; and any officer who makes
a false rcportshall be guilty of perjury, and i)unislicd accordingly.
i 21. The officers of the executive department, and of all the
iniblic institutions of the State, shall, at least ten days f receding
each regular session of the general assembly, sevi rally report to
the governor, who shall transmit such reports to the general as-
sembly, together with the re|)orls of the judges of the su|)reme
court of the defects in the constitution and laws ; and the gover-
nor may at any time require information, in writing, under oath,
from the officers of the executive deiiartment, and all ofliccrsand
managers of state institutions, upon any subject relating to the
condition, management and expenses of their respective offices.
THE SEAL OF STATE.
? 22. There shall be a seal of the State, which shall be called
the " Great seal of the State of Illinois," which shall be kept by
the secretary of State, and used hv him, officially as directed by
l.iw.
FEES AND SALARIES.
I 2'^. The officers named in this article shall receive for their
services a salary, to be established by law. which shall not be in-
creased or diminished during their oflicial terms, and they shall
not after the expiration of the terms of those in office at the
adoption of this constitution, receive to their own use any fees,
costs, perquisites of olfice, or other compensation. And all fees
that may hereafter be payable by law for any sirvice jierformed
by any officer provided for in th's article of the constitution,
shall be paid in advance into the State treasury.
DEFIXITIOX AXU OATH OF OFFICE.
? 24. An oflice is a public position created by the constitution
or law, continuing during the pleasure of the appointing power,
or for a fixed time, with a successor elected or appointed. An
cniploymcMit is an agency, for a temporary purpose, which ceases
when "that jiurpose is acccmiplished.
§ 2'). All civil officers, excei)t members of the general assembly
and such inferior officers as may be by law exempted, shall, be-
fore they enter on the duties of their respective offices, take and
subscribe the following oath or affirmation :
I do solcmnlv sweni- (or nffirm, :>!> tlio ca^e mny he) that I will support the
constitution of tlio United Stales, iind tlie Conslitulion of the St.aie of Illinois,
and that I will f:iilhfully disehaigo the duties of the office of aeeording
t,j the liesit of my ability.
.Vnd no other oath, declaration or test shall be required as a
iiualilication.
ARTICLE VI.
JUDICIAL DEPARTMENT.
? 1. .Tndioial Powers of Courts. '3 18. County Judse.*— County Clerks.
f •!. Seven Supreme Judges— Four] ^ It", .\ppeals from County Courts.
Decide. ' j liu t'robate Courts Authorized.
i n Qiialilieations of a Supreme Judge ^ 21. Jtt.stices of the Peace and Con.>;ta-
i 4. Terms of the Supreme Court. j hies.
i .-, Three limnd Divmious— Seven '? 22. Slate's Attorney — — •- '^ ■••
*i -1 f ^'tprrmo Judges.
■ ■■:«:;;^TEri^"="
-,:.!t;i :,: I Ueporler.
. - 1 1 ;!.■, Mi|jreme Court.
■Ihitc Courts Authorized,
idiction of Circuit Courts.
Mtion of ludicial Circuit".
> of holding Circuit Courts,
tits containing Four Judges,
icsof the! ircuit Judges,
itications of Judges or Com-
j 3 -ja. Ctii :i. t ' • M >'■ k County.
jf27. (l.:i ' ; ' ""ty Court.
I l'2n. Unif'Tmilv in tlic Courts.
i i :i(i. Kemoval of any Judcc.
|:n. Judces I) niake Written Reports
i a2. Terms of OtKce— Filling \acan
? 1. The judicial powers, except as in this article is otherwise
jirovided, shall be vested in one supreme court, circuit courts,
county courts, justices of the [)eace, police magistrates, and in
such courts as may be created by law in and for cities and incor-
porated towns.
SUI'HE.ME COURT.
J 2. The supreme court shall consist of seven judges, and shall
have original jurisdiction in cases relating to the revenue, in
mandamu.i, and habeas eorpim, and appellate jurisdiction in all
other ea.ses. One of said judges shall be chief justice ; four shall
constitute a quorum, and the concurrence of four shall be neces-
sary to every decision.
■ 5
498
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND RERRT COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
I 3. No person shall be eligible to the ofBce of judge of the
supremo cnurt unless he shall be at least thirty years of aje, and a
citizen of the United States, nor unless he shall have resided in
the State five years next preceding liij election, and be a resi-
dent of the district in which he shall be electod.
^ 4. Terms of the supreme court shall continue to be held i:i
the present grand divisions at the several places now provided
for holding the same ; and until olhcrwise provided by law, one
or more terms of said court shall be held, for the northern
division, in the city of Chicago, each year, at such times as said
court raav a^ipoint, whenever said city or the county of Cook
shall provide appropriate room therefor, and the use of a suitable
library, without expense to the State. The judicial divisions
may be altered, increased or diminished in number, and the times
and places of holding said court may be changed by law.
5 5. The present grand divisions shall be preserved, and be
denominated Southern, Central and Northern, until otherwise
provided by law. The State shall be divided into seven districts
for the election of judges, and until otherwise provided by law,
thoy shall be as f )llows :
First District. — The counties of St. Clair, Clinton, Washing-
ton, Jcfr:!rson, Wayne, Edwards, W.abash, White, Hamilton,
Franklin, Perry, Randolph, Monroe, Jackson, Williamson, Saline,
Gallatin, Hardin, Pope, Union, Johnson, Alexander, Pulaski and
Massac. ,
Second Disirirf. — The counties of Madison, Bond, Marion, Clay,
Bichland, Lawrence, Crawford, Jasper, Efhngliam, Fayette, Mont-
gomerv, Macou-un, Shelby, Cumberlaiul, Clark, Greene, Jersey,
Calhoun and Christian.
Thtril lUxfrirf — The counties of Sangamon, Macon, Logan, Dc
Witt, Piatt, Douglas, Champaign, Vermilion, McLean, Living-
ston, Ford, Iroquois, Coles, Edgar, Moultrie and Tazewell.
Fourth District. — The counties of Fulton, McDonough, Han-
c )ck, S.huyler, Brown, Adams, Pike, Mason, Menard, Morgan,
Cass and Scott.
I'ifth District. — The counties of Knox, Warren, Henderson,
Jlercer, Henry, Stark, Peoria, Marshall, Putnam, Bureau, Lasalle,
Grundv and Woodford.
Si.rlU Dlifrirt. — The counties of Whiteside, Carroll, Jo Daviess,
St;'plunson, Winnebago, Boone, McHenry, Iv'me, Kendall, Dc
Kalh, L,v, Ojle and Pvock Island.
S,rr„l/i Dixirirt.— The counties of Lake, Cook, Will, Kankakee
and Du l"agc.
Ths boundaries of the districts may be changed at the session
of t'le general assembly next preceding the election for judges
herein, and at no other time ; but whenever such alterations
shall be made, the same shall be upon the rule of equality of
popuhxtion, as nearly as county boundaries will allow, and the
districts will be composed of contiguous counties, in as nearly
comnact form as circumstances will ])crniit. The alteration of
the districts shall not affect the tenure of an oflice of any Judge.
? 6. At the time of voting on the adoption of this constitution,
one judge of the supreme court shall be elected by the electors
thereif, in each of said districts numbered two, three, six and
seven, win shall hold his office for the term of nine years from
the first Monday of June, in the year of our Lord 1870. The
term of office of judges of the supreme court, elected after the
adoption of this constitution, shall be nine years ; and on the
first Monday of June of the year in which the term of any of
flie judges in office at the .adoption of this constitution, or of the
judge then elected, shall expire, and every nine years thereafter,
there shall be an election for the successor or successors of such
judges, in the respective districts wherein the term of such judges
shall expire. The chief justice shall continue to act as such
until th^ expiration of the term for which he was elected, after
which thi judges shall choose one of their number as chief jus-
tice.
? 7. From and after the adoption of this constitution, the
judge i of the supreme court sh.all each receive a salary of $4,000
per annum, p.ivable quarterly, until otherwise provided by law.
And after said salaries shall be fixed by law, the s.alarics of
the judges in office sh;\ll not be increased or diminished during
the terms for which said judges have been elected.
? 8. Appeals and writs of error may be taken to the supreme
court, held in the grand division in which the case is decided, or,
by consent of the parties, to any other grand division.
3 9. The supreme court shall appoint one reporter of its deci-
sions, wdio shall hold his oflSce for six years, subject to removal by
the court.
§ 10. At the time of the election for representative in the gen-
eral assembly, happening next preceding the expiration of the
terms of office of the present clerks of said court, one clerk of
said court for each division shall be elected, whose term of office
shall be six years from said election, but wiio shall not enter upon
the duties of his office until the expiration of the term ct' his
predecessor, and every six years thereafter, one clerk of said
court for each division shall be elected.
APPELLATE C'OL'ETS.
S 11. After the year of our Lord 1874, inferior appellate courts
of uniibr:a organization and jurisdiction, may be created in dis-
tricts forracd for that purpose, to which such appeals and writs
of error as the general assembly may provide, may be prosecuted
from circuit and other courts, and from which appeals and writs
of error shall lie to the supreme court, iu all criminal cases, and
cases in which a franchise, or freehold, or the validity of a stat-
ute is involved, and in such other cases as may be provided by
law. Such appellate courts shall be held by such number of
judges of the circuit courts, and at such times and places, and in
such manner, as may be provided by law; but no judge shall sit
in review upon cases decided by him ; nor shall said judges re-
ceive any additional compensation for such services.
CIPXriT COURTS.
^ 12. The circuit courts shall have origin.al jurisdiction of all
causes in law and ccjuity, and such appellate jurisdiction as is or
may be provided by law, and shall hold two or more terms each
year in every county. The terms of office of judges of circuit
courts shall be six years.
ri3. The State, exclusive of the county of Cook and other
counties having a population of 1C'0,C00, shall be divided into
judicial circuits, prior to the expiration of terms of office of the
present judges of the circuit courts. Such circuitsshall be formed
of contiguous counties, in as nearly compact form and as nearly
equal as circumstances wdll permit, having due regard to busi-
ne s, territory and population, and shall not exceed in number
one circuit for every 100,000 of population in the State. One
judge shall be elected for each of said circuits by the electors
thereof. New circuits may be formed and the boundaries of cir-
cuits changed by the general assembly, at its session next pre-
ceding the election for circuit judges, but at no other time: Pro-
ridal, that the circuits may be equalized or changed at the first
session of the general assembly, after the ado])tion of this con-
stitution. The creation, alteration or change of any circuit shall
not aflect the tenure of office of any judge. Whenever the busi-
ness of the circuit court of any one, or of two or more contigu-
ous counties, containing a popidiition exceeding 50,000, shall oc-
cupy nine months of tbe year, the general assembly may make
of such county, or counties, a separate circuit. Whenever addi-
tional circuits are created, the foregoing limitations shall be ob-
s.'rvcd.
S 14. The general assembly shall provide for the times of hold-
ing courts in each county ; wdiich shall not be changed, except
by the general assembly next preceding the general election for
judges of said courts; but additional terms may be provided for
in any county. The election for judges of the circuit courts .shall
be held on the first ^Monday of June,Jn the year of our Lord
1873, and every six years tlicrcafter.
115. The general assembly may divide the State into judicial
circuits of greater population and territory, in lieu of the circuits
provided for in section 13 of this article, and provide for the elec-
tion therein, severally, by the electors thereof, by general ticket,
of not exceeding four judges, who shall hold the circuit courts for
which they shall be elected, in such manner as may be provided
by law.
i 10. From and after the adoption of this constitution, judges
of the circuit courts shall receive a salary of $3,000 per annum,
payable quarterly, until otherwise provided by law. And after
their salaries shall be fixed by law, they shall not be increased or
diminished during the terms for which said judges shall be, re-
spectively, elected ; and from and after the adoption of this con-
stitution, no judge of the supreme or circuit court shall receive
any other compensation, jierquisite or benefit, -in any form whatso-
ever, nor perform any other than judicial duties to which may
belong any emoluments.
I 17. No person shall be eligible to the office of judge of the
circuit or any inferior court, or to membership in the "board of
county coinmissioncrs," unless he shall be at least 25 years of age,
and a citizen of the United States, nor unless he shall have re-
sided in this State five years next preceding his election, and be
a resident of the circuit, county, city, cities, or incorporated town
in which he shall be elected.
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUXTIES, ILLIXOIS.
499
COUNTY COURTS.
I 18. There shall be elected in and foreaeh county, one judge
an.l one clerk of the county court, whose terms of office shall be
four vears. But tlie general lusscnibly uuiy create districts of two
or more contiguous counties, in each of which shall be elected
one judge, wlio shall take tlie place of, and exercise the powers
and jurisdiction of county judges in such districts. _ County
courts shall be courts of record, and shall have original jurisdic-
tion in all matters of probate ; settlement of est:ites of deceased
persons ; appointment of guardians and conservators, and .settle-
ments of their ikccounts; in all matters relating to ajjprentices ;
and in proceedings for the collection of taxes and assessments,
and such other jurisdiction as may be pr(Jvided for by general
law.
i. 19. Appeals and writs of error shall be allowed from final
determination of county courts, as may be provided by law.
I'ROBATE COUr.TS.
I 2(1. The general assembly may l^rovidc fur the establishment
of a probate court in eacli county having a population of over
511,000, and for the election of a judge thereof, whose term of
office shall be the same iis that of the county judge, and who
shall be elected at the same time and in the same manner. Saiil
courts, when established, shall have original jurisdiction ot all
])robate matters, the settlcnieut of estates of dece;used persons,
the appointment of guardians and conservators, and settlement
of their accounts ; in all matters relating to apprentices, and in
cases of the sales of real estate of deceased persons for the pay-
ment of debts.
JUSTICES OF THE PEACE AND CONSTABLES.
? 21. Justices of the peace, police magistrates, and constables
shall be elected in an<l for such districts as are, or may be, pro-
vided by law, and the jurisdiction of such justices of the peace
and police magistrates .shall be uniform.
state's attokxeys.
? 22. At the election for mcmi)ers of the general assembly in
die year of our Lord 1672, and every four years thereafter, there
shall he elected a State's attorney in and for each county, in liiu
of the State's attorney now provided by law, w hose term of otUce
shall be fjur years.
COURTS OF COOK COUNTY.
I 21. The conntv of Cook shall he one judicial circuit. The
circuit court of C.'ook county shall consist of live judges, until
the'.r number shall be increa-'ed, as her.'in provided. The present
judge of the recorder's court of the city of Chicago, and the pres-
entr'jud"e of the circuit court of Cook county, shall be two of
said judges, and shall remain in office for the terms for which
thev'werjrospectivelv elected, and until their succcs-sors shall
be elected and qualilied. The superior court of Chicago shall be
continued, and called the sup<'rior court of Cook county. Thj
eeueral assembW may increase the number of said judges by ad-
ding one to either of said courts for every additional .")0,000 in-
habitants in said county, over and above a population of 4(IO,000.
The t<Tnis of office of the judges of said courts hereafter elected,
shall be six years. , ,, ,
jI'1\. The judge having the shortest unexpired term shall be
chief justice "of the court of which he is judge. Incase there
are two or more whose terms expire at the same time, it may be
determined by lot which shall be chief justice. Any judge of
either of said courts shall have all the powers of a circuit judge,
and may hold the court of which he is a member. Each of them
may hold a diflfcrent branch thereof at the same time.
8 2'). The judges of the superior and circuit courts, and the
State's attorney, in said county, .shall receive the same salaries,
payable out of the State treasury, as is or may be paid from said
treasury to the circuit jud<_'es and State's attorneys of the ."^tate,
and such further compensation, 10 be paid by the county of Cook,
as is or may he provided by law ; such compensation shall not
be changed "during their continuance in ofiice.
I 21). The recorder's court of the city of Chicago shall be con-
tinued, and shall be called the "criminal court of Cook county."
It shaU have the jurisdiction of a circuit court, in all ca.ses of
criminal and ^lui.si' criminal nature, arising in the county of Cook,
or that m.ay be broncrbt before said court pursuant to law ; and
all recogniz.ancesand appeals taken insaid county,in criminal and
?uasi criminal cases shall be returnable and taken to said court,
t .shall have no jurisdiction in civil ca.ses, except in those on
behalf of the people, and incident to such criminal or quasi crim-
inal matters, and to dispose of unfinished' business. The terms
7
of said criminal court of Cook county shall he hehl by one or
more of the judges of the circuit or superior court of Cook
county, as nearly as may be in alternation, as may be determined
by said judges, "or provided by law. Said judges shall be ex-
o//mV) judges of said court.
S 27. The present clerk of the recorder's court of the city of
Chicago, shall be the clerk of the criminal court of Cook county,
during the term for which be was elected. The present clerks of
the suiierior court of Chicago, and the present clerk of the circuit
court of Cook couiitv, shall <'ontinue in office during the terms
(or which they were respectivelv elected ; and thereafter there
shall be but oiie clerk of the superior court, to be elected by the
(lualilied electors of said county, who shall hold his office for the
term of four years, and until his successor is elected and iiualificd.
I 2H. .VII justices of the peace in the city of Chicago shall be
api'iointed by the governor, by and with the advice and consent
of the senate, (but only upon" the recoinincndation of a majoHty
of the judges of the circuit, superior and county courts,) and for
such di'stricts as are now or shall hereafter be |)rovided by law.
They shall hol.l their offices for four years, and until their suc-
cess^ors have been eoinmissioned and .lUalilied, but they may be
renioveil by summary proceedings in the circuit or superior court,
for ext. ution or . >l her" malfeasance. K.xisting justices of the peace
and police magistrates may hold their offices until the expiration
of their respective terms.
GENERAL PROVISIONS.
? 2i). All jnilicial officers shall be commissioned by the gover-
nor. All laws relating toi-ourts shall be general, and of uniform
operation ; and tlie organization, jurisdiction, power, proceedings
and practice of all courts, of the same class or grade, so far as
regulated by law, and the force and etlect of the process, judg-
ments and decrees of such courts, severally shall be uniform.
'i. 30. The general assembly may, for cause entered on the
journals, upon ilnc notice aiid opportunity of defense, remove
from oHice any judse, upon concurrence of three-fourths ot all
the members "erected, of each house. All other oHicers in tills
article mentioned, shall be removed from ollice on prosecution
and final conviction, for misdemeanor in office.
8 .-il. All jiKliTCS of courts of record, inferior to the supreme
court, shall.'on or before the first day of June, of each year, re-
port in writing to the judges of the suiireme court, such delects
and omissions in the laws as their exi.erience may suggest; and
the judges of the supreme court shall, on or betorc the hrst day
of .ianuary of each year, report in writing to the governor such
defects aii"d omissions in the constitution and laws as they may
find to exist, tocetlier with ajipropriate forms of bills to cure such
defects and omissions in ihe laws. And the judges of the several
circuit courts shall report to the next general assembly the num-
ber of days thcv have held court in the several counties compos-
in"- their respective circuits, the preceding two years.
i :!2 All officers provided for in this article shall hold their
offices until their successors shall be quiilifu'd, and thev shall, re-
spectively reside in the ilivision, circuit, county or district for
which tb'e'y may be elected or api.oiiitcd. The terms of office of
all such officer.s", where not otherwise prescribed 111 this article
shall be four years. All officers, where not otlierwise provided
for in this article, shall perform such dutusaml receive such
compensation as is or may be provided by law. Vacancies in
such elective offices shall be filled by election ; but where the
unexpired term does not exceed one year, the vacancy shall be
hlled by appointment, as follows : Of judges, by the governor;
of clerks of courts, by the court to which the office appertains, or
by the jud<'e or judges thereof; and <if all such other officers, by
the board of supervisors or board of county comnu.ssioners in
the county where the vacancy occurs. , , ,,
? 33 .Vll process shall run : In Ihr nnmr of Ihr Penple of the
S/,',fc ofjlllnoh: and all prosecutirms shall be carried on : //i
the Home ,i,hI h„ ihe m,ll,..nt,, of the IVoplr of th: Slot,- ,f Hh,w,s;
and conclude •"'J./"'"--' the pm.-r and dhjmliinf the .■.,nnc. ' 1 op-
ulation " wherever used in this article, shall be .letermined by the
next preceding census of this State or of the United Slates.
ARTICLE VII.
i 1. Wlin »r<? pntillod ffi Vole.
i ■' \\\ Votinc to II** liv Ballot.
'( X r'nvil.'ues of RIpclnrii.
; 4 .MtseiK'O on Public Business,
SUFFRAGE.
1 ? .-.. .=
Her not deemed a Residcn
,lifirfttlon« for Office,
Persons Convicted of Crime.
1. Every person having resided in this State one year, in the
500
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
coun'.y 01 days, ami in the election distriet 00 days next prcced-
injiany fleetiou tluri'iii, who was an elector in tliisStatc on the
liivt ilay of April, in llie year of our Lord 1S4S, or obtained a
certificate of naturalization liefore any court of record in this
8::ito |)rinrto the fii-st day of January, in the year of our Lord
1S70, or who shall be a male citizen of the United States, above
the a^'e of 21 years, shall be entitled to vote at such election.
i'2. All vot'es shall he by ballot.
'i 3. Electors sliall, in all cases except treason, felony, or breach
of tlic peace, be iirivilcged from arrest during their .attendance
at eVx-tions, and in going to and returning from the same. And
no elector shall be obliged to do military duty on the days of
election, except in time of war or public danger.
? 4. No elector shall be deemed to have lost his residence in
this State by reason of his absence on business of the United
States, or of this State, or in the military or naval services of the
United States.
'4. 'k No soldier, seaman or marine in the army or n.ivy of the
United States shall be deemed a resident of this St.ate in conse-
quence of being st.itioned therein.
J G. No person shall be elected or appointed to any oiiiee in
this State, civil or military, who is not a citizen of the United
States, and who shall not have resided in this State one year
next preceding the election or .appointment.
? 7. The general assembly shall pass laws excluding from the
right of 6uffra~e persons convicted of infamous crimes.
ARTICLE YIIL
EDUC.VTIOX.
. Sdioors Est.il.IislioJ.
i or Grants in aid of Sctiools.
lie Schools uot to be tiectariau
^ 1. The general assembly shall provide a thorough and effi-
cient system of free schools, whereby all the children of this
State may receive a good common school education.
I 2. All lands, moneys or other properties, donated, granted or
received for school, college, semin.ary or university purposes, and
tlie ]iroCecds thereof, shall be faithfully applied to the objects for
wliicli such g:fts or grants were made.
^ 3. Neither the general assembly nor any county, city, town,
tow.iship, school district, or other public corporation, shall ever
make any appropriation or pay from any public fund whatever,
anything in aid of any church of sectarian purpose, or to help
support or sustain any school, academy, seminary, college, uni-
versity, or other literary or scientific institution, controlled by
any church or sectarian demomination whatever ; nor shall any
grant or donation of land, money, or other personal property ever
be made by the St.ate or any such public corporation, to any
church, or for any sei-t;irian purpose.
§ 4. No ti/aclicr. Stale, county, township, or district school offi-
cer shall be iuteiistcd in the sale, proceeds or profits of any book,
apparatus or furniture, used or to be used, in any school in this
State, with which such officer or teacher may be connected,
under such penalties as may be provided by the general assembly.
§ 5. There may be a. county superintendent of schools in each
county, wdiose qualifications, powers, duties, compensation and
time and manner of election, and term of office, shall be pre-
scribed by law.
ARTICLE IX.
' 1. Principles of Taxitioi
! 2. Otlier and further Ta>
i 3. Propf rty E.xcmpt froit
m on Coiinlv Ta.xes.
nicipal Improvements
of municipal Corpora-
I 1. The general assembly shall provide such revenue as may be
;ieedful by levying a tax, by valuation, so that every person "and
carporation shall pay a ta.x in proportion to the value of his, her
or its property — such value to be ascertained by some person or
persons, to be elected or appointed in such manner as the general
assembly shall direct, and not otherwise; but the general assem-
bly shall have power to tax peddlers, auctioneers, brokers, hawk-
ers, merchants, commission merchants, showmen, jugglers, inn-
keepers grocery keepers liqi' or dealers, toll bridges, ferries, insur-
ance, telegraph and express iij.ercsts or business, venders of pat-
ents, and persons or corporations owning or using franchises and
privileges, in such manner as it shall from timeto time direct by
general law, uniform as to the class upon which it operates.
? 2. The specifications of the objects and subjects of taxation
shall not deprive the general assembly of the power to require
other subjects or objects to be taxed in such a manner as may be
consistent with the principles of taxation fixed in this constitu-
tion.
i 3. The properties of this State, counties and other municipal
corporations, both real and personal, and such other property r.s
may be used exclusively for agricultural and horticultural socie-
ties, for school, religious, cemetery and ebaritable purposes, may
be exempted from taxation ; but such exemption shall be only
by general law. In the assessment of real estate encumbered by
public easement, any depreciation occasioned by such easement
may be ileducted in the valujition of such property.
? 4. The general a-^ellll■ly shall provide, in all cases where it
may be nccessuy I-) sell real <-tate forthe non-payment of taxes
orspeehal as<e>sioeiit-i \'<>r State, county, municipal or other pur-
poses, that a return of such unpaid taxes or a.ssessments shall be
to some general officer of the county having authority to receive
State and county taxes; and there shall be no .sale of said jjrop-
erty for any of said taxes or assessments but by said officer, upon
the order or judgment of some court of record.
§ 5. The right of redemi)tion from all sales of real estate for
the non-payment of ta.xes or special assessments of any character
whatever, shall exist in favor of owners and per.sons interested
in such real estate, for a period of not less than two years from
such sales thereof And the general assembly shall provide by
law for reasonable notice to be given to the owners or parties in-
terested, by publication or otherwise, of the fact of the sale of
the property for such taxes or assessments, and when the time of
redemption shall expire : Provided, that occupants shall in all
cases be served with jiersonal notice before Ihe time of redemption
expires.
I 6. The general assembly shall have no power to release or
discharge any county, city, township, town or district whatever,
or the iidiabitants thereof or the property therein, from their or
its proportionate share of ta.xes to be levied for State purposes,
nor shall commutation for such taxes be authorized in any form
whatever.
I 7. All taxes levied lor State purposes shall be paid into the
State treasury.
? 8. County aiitliniilie^ shall iiiV( r a-se-^- taxes the aggregate
of which shall exceed 7'> ( enu ]>rr sKiu valuatidU. except forthe
p.iymentof indebteihu--; e\i>iinL'at the adoptinn of this constitu-
tion, unless authorized by a vote of the jicopie of the couuty.
§ 9. The general assembly may vest the corporate authorities
of cities, towns, villages, with power to make local improvements
by special assessment or by sjjecial ta.xation of contiguous prop-
erty or otherwise. For all other corporate purposes, all munici-
pal corporations may be vested with authority to assess and col-
lect taxes; but such taxes shall be uniform in respect to persons
and property, with the jurisdiction of the body imposing the
same.
? 10. The general assembly .shall not impose taxes upon muni-
cip.al eorjiorations, or the inhabitants or property thereof, for cor-
])orate purj)03es, but shall require that all the taxable |)roperty
within the limits of municipal ci>r]iorations shall be taxed lor
the payment of debts contracted under authority of law, such
taxes to be uniform in respect lo persons and property, within the
jurisdiction of the body imposing the same. Private property
shall not be liable to betaken or sold for the payment of the cor-
porate debts of amunicip.al corporation.
I 11. No person who is in default, as a collector or custodian
of money or property belonging to a municipal corporation, shall
be eligible to any oflice in or under .such corjioration. The fees,
salary or compcnsatioTi of no municipal officer who is elected or
appointed fVir a definite term of office, shall be increased or di-
minisheil during sueh term.
i 12. No county, city, town.ship, school district, or other muni-
ci[ial corporation, shall be allowed to become indebted in any
manner or for any purpose, to <an amount, including existing in-
debtedness, in the aggregate exceeding five per centum on the
value of the taxable property therein, to be ascertained by the
last assessment for State and county taxes, previous to the incur-
ring of such indebtedness. Any county, city, school district, or
other municipal corporation, incurring any indebtedness, as afore-
said, shall before, or at the time of doing so, provide for the col-
lection of a direct annual tax sufficient to pay the interest on
such debt as it falls due, and also to pay and discharge the prin-
cipal thereof within twenty years from the time of contracting the
same. This section sjiall not he construed to prevent any county,
city, township, school district, or other municipal corporation
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
501
from issuing their bonds in compliance with any vote of the
people which may have been had prior to the adoption of this
constitution in pursuance of any law providing therefor.
ARTICLE X.
COUNTIES.
1 J 8. County OfBcer?— Terms of Office.
i '.I. Siiliirieaand Fues ia Cook Counly.
t 10. tJ.iiariea lixoil by County Ho.ird.
I \ 11. Township Officers— Special Laws.
\ 12. All Future Fees Uniform.
\ l:;. Sworn Reports of all Fees.
il. Form.ition of New Connlies.
2. Division of any County.
3. Territory stricken from a County.
4. Itemmal I'f a County Seat.
6. MettioJ of County Government.
C. Board of County Commissioners.
7. County alfairs in" Cook County. I
? 1. No new countv shall be formed or established by the pen-
cr.d iisscmblv, wbicli" will reduce the county or counties, or cither
of tliem, from which it shall be taken, to less contents than 400
square miles; nor sliall any county bo formed of less contents;
nor shall .any line thereof pass witliin less than ten miles of any
county scat "of the county, or counties proposed to be divided.
I 2.' No county s'.iall be divided, or have any part s-trickcn
therefrom, without submitting the (jue.stion to a vote of the peo-
ple of the county, nor unless a majority of all the legal voters
of the countv, voting on the question, shall vote for the same.
, S 3. There" shall be no tciritory stricken from any county,
uniec-s a majoritv of the voters living in such territory shall peti-
tion for such division ; and no territory shall be added to any
county witliout the consent of the majcjrity of the voters of the
county to which it is proposed to be adilcd. But the portion so
strick'cn off an<l atlded to another county, or forme<l in whole or
in part into a new countv, shall be holden for, and obliged to
pay its proportion of indebtedness of the county from which it
liiis been taken.
COUSTY SEATS.
J 4. Xo countv seat shall be removed until the point to which
it is proposed t)"be removed shall be fixed in pursuance of law,
and thrcc-fifths of the voters of the county, to be ascertained in
such manner a J s'.iall be jirovided bv general law, shall have
voted in favor of its removal to suih point ; and no person shall
vote on BU-h qiie^liori who has not resided in the county six
months, and in the election precinct ninety days next preceding
such election. The (inestion of removal of a county seat shall
not be oftencr submitted than once in ten years, to a vote of the
people. But when an attempt is made to remove the county scat
to a point nearer to the centre of a county, then a majority vote
only shall be necessary.
COUNTY GOVEUNJIENT.
? 5. The general a-ssembly shall provide, by general law, <br
township organization, under which any county may organize
whenever a inajority of the legal voters of such county, voting at
any general election, shall so determine, and whenever any county
shall adopt t )wn.ship organization, so much of this constitutitm
as provides for tlie management of the fiscal concerns of the said
county bv the board of county commi.ssioners, may be dispensed
with, and the all'airs of said "county maybe transacted in such
manmr ::a the general as.sembly may provide. And in any county
that shall have adopted a towii-ship organization, the question of
continuing the sinie may be submitted to a vote of the electors
of Buch county, at a general election, in the manner that now is
or m.iy be provided by law; and if a majority of all the votes
cast upon that que-tion" shall be against township organization,
then such organization shall cease in said county ; and all laws
in force in relation to counties not having township organizations,
shall immedi.itoly take effect and be in force in such county. No
two townships shall have the same nanic.and the day of holding
the annual township meeting shall be uniform throughout the
State.
i 6. At the first election of county judges under this constitu-
tion, three shall be elected in each of the counties in this State,
not under township organization, three officers, who .shall be
styled " The Board of County Commis.sioner.<," who shall hold
sessions for the transaction of county business as .shall be provided
by Law. One of said commissioners shall hold his office for one
vear, one for two years, and one for three years, to be determined
bv lot ; and every year thereafter one such officer shall be elected
in each of said counties for the term of three years.
I 7 The county affairs of Cook county shall be managed by a
board of commissioners of fifteen persons, ten of whom shall be
elected from the city of Chicago, and five from towns outside cf
said city, in such manner as may be provided by law.
COUNTY OFFICEES AND THEIB COMPENSATIONS.
I 8. In each countv there shall be elected the following county
officers : County judge, sheriff, county clerk, clerk of the cir-
cuit court, (who may be ex-officio recorder of deeds, except in
counties having C0,000 and more inhabitants, in which counties
a recorder of deeds shall be elected atlhe general election in the
year of our Lord 1872,) treasurer, surveyor, and coroner, each of
"whom shall enter upon the duties of his office, respectively, on
the first .Monday of December after their election ; and they
shall h.ilJ their "respective offices for the term of four years, ex-
cept the troti-surer, sheriff and coroner, who shall hold their office
for tw ) years, and until their successors shall be elected and qual-
ifi(-il-
I 9. The clerks of all the courts of record, the treasurer, shcrifT,
coroner and recorder of deeds of Cook county, shall receive as
tlu'ir only compensation for their services, salaries to be fixed by
law, which shall in nocasebeas much as tlie lawful compenstttion
of a judge of the circuit court of said county, and shall be paid
respectively, only out of the fees of the office actually coUecled.
All fees, p"cr(iuis"ites and emolument , (above the amount of said
s ilarics) shall be paiil into the county treasury. The number of
the deputies and assistants of such officers shall be determined
by rule of the circuit court, to be entered of record and their
compensation shall be determined by the county board.
I 10. The county board, except as provided in ? 9 of this arti-
cle, shall fix the "compensation of all county ofUccrs, with the
amount of their necessary clerk hire, stationery, fuel and other
expenses, and in all cases where fees are i)rovided for, said com-
pensation shall be paid only out of, and shall in no instance ex-
ceed, the fees actually collected ; they sliall not allow either of
them more per annum than $1,500, in counties not exceeding
23,000 inh.ibitants ; 82,000 in counties containing 20,000 and not
exceeding 3'>,000 inhabitants ; $2,500 in counties containing 30,-
000 and not exceeding 50,001 inhabitants; $3,000 in counties
containing 5'),000 and not exceeding 70,000 inh.abitants; $3,500
in counties containing 70,000 and not exceeding 100,000 inhabi-
tants; and $4,000 in lounlies containing over 100,000 and not
exceeding 250,000 inhabitants; and not more than $1,000 addi-
tional compensation fir each additional 100,000 inhabitants :
Provided, that the compensation of no officer shall be increased
or diminished during his term of office. All fees or allowances
by them received, in excess of their said compensation, shall be
paid into the coun'v treasury.
? 11- The fi'cs of "township officers, and of each class of county
officers, .shall be uniform in the class of counties to which they
resiiectivcly belong. The compensation lierein provided forsh.-ill
apply only "to officers hereafter elected, but all fees est.-iblished by
spc-ial laws shall cetise at the adoption of tliis constitution, and
siuh officers shall receive only such fees as are provided by gen-
eral law.
S 12. All laws fixing the fees of State, county and township
officers, shall terminate with the terms, respectively, of tho.se
who may bo in office at the meeting of the first general assembly
after the adoption of this constitution ; and the general assembly
shall by general law, uniform in its operation, provide for and
regulate the fees of said officers and their successors, so as to re-
difce the same to a reasonable comnen.'^ation for services actually
rendered. But the general assembly m.iy, by general law, classify
the counties by poi>ulation into not more than three classes, and
regulate tlie fees according to class. Tlrs article sliall not be
construed as depriving the^general assembly of the power to re-
duce the fees of existing officers.
? 13. Every person who is elected or appointed to .any office in
this State, who .shall be paid in whole or m part by fees, shall be
required by law to make a semi-annual report, under oath to
some officer to be designated by law, of all his fees and emolu-
ments.
ARTICLE XI.
CORPORATIONS.
5 1 Est.iblished only by Oencral Laws.
i 2. ExistingChartcrs-IIovv Forfeited.
i. .1. Election of Directors or ^^anar!ers.
i 4. Construction of Street Railroads.
\ 6. St.ite Banks Forbidden— General
Law.
t r.. Liability of Bank Stockholder. ,
? 7. Suspension of Specie Payment.
I 8. Of a Gcncial Baulking Law. 1
] n. Railro.adOffice.Books and Records
f 10. Personal Property nf Railroads.
J 11. Consolidations Forbidden.
S 12. Railroads deemed Uighways —
Rates Fixed.
J 1.1. Stocks, Bonds and Dividends.
i 14. Power over existing Companies.
S 15. FrciphtaDdPasscngcrTarifFre;;u-
lated.
? 1. No corporation shall be created by special laws, or it.s ( bar-
ter extended chan~cd cr ameaded, except those for charitable,
9
502
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH. MONROE AN'D PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
educational, pen;;! or reformatory purposes, which arc to be and
remain under the patronage and control of the State, but the
general assembly shall provide, by general law, for the organiza-
tions of all cor])orations hereafter created.
'i 2. All existing charters or grants of special or exclusive
privileges, under which organization shall not have taken place,
or wdiich shall not have been in operation within ten days from
the time this constitution takes effect, shall thereafter have no
validity or effect whatever.
I 3. The general assembly shall provide, by law, that in all
elections for directors or managers of corporated companies,
every stockholder shall have the right to vote, in person orby proxy,
f.)r the number of shares of stock ow'ned by him, for as many
persons as there are directors or managers to be elected, or to
cumulate said shares, and give one candidate as many votes as
the number of directors multiplied by the number of his shares
of stock, shall equal, or to distribute them on the same principle
among as many candidates as he shall think fit ; and no such
directors or managers shall be elected in any other manner.
§ 4. No laws shall be passed by the general assembly, granting
the right to construct and operate a street railroad within any
city, town, or incorporated village, without requiring the consent
of the local authorities having the control of the street or high-
way proposed to be occupied by such street railroad.
5 5. No State bank shall hereafter be created, nor sball the
State own or be liable for any stock in any corporation or joint
stock company or association for banking purposes, now created,
or t3 bo hereafter created, No act of the general assembly au-
thorizing or creating corporations or associations, with banking
powers, ■whether of issue, deposit or discount, nor amendments
thereto, shall go into effect or in any manner be in force unless
the same shall be submitted to a vote of the people at the general
election next succeeding the passage of the same, and be ap-
proved by a majority of all the votes cast at such election for or
against such law.
I 6. Every stockholder in a banking corporation or institution
shall be individually responsible and liable to its creditors over
and above the amount of stock by him or her held, to an amount
equal to his or her respective shares so held, for all its liabilities
accruing while he or she remains such a stockholder.
1 7. The suspension of specie payments by bankin ; institu-
tions, or their circulation, created by the laws of this State, shall
never be permitted or sanctioned. Every banking association
now, or which may hereafter be, organized under the laws of
this State, shall make and publish a full and accurate quar-
terly statement of its affairs, (which shall be certified to, under
oath, by one or more of its officers,) as may be provided by law.
§ 8. if a general banking law shall be enacted, it shall provide
for the registry and countersigning, by an officer of state, of all
bills or paper credit, designed to circulate as money, and require
security, to the full amount thereof, to be deposited with the State
treasurer, in United States or Illinois State stocks, to be rated at
ten per cent, below their par value ; and in case of a deprecia-
tion of said stocks to the amount of ten per cent, below par, the
bank or banks owning said stocks shall be required to make up
Slid deficiency, by depositing additional stocks. And said law
shall also provide for the recording of the names of all .stock-
holders in such corporations, the amount of stock held by each,
the time of any transfer thereof, and to whom such transfer is
made.
RAILRO.\DS.
2 9. Every railroad corporation organized or doing business in
this State, under the laws or authority thereof, shall have and main-
tain a public office or place in tliis State, for the transaction of
its business where transfers of stock shall be made, and in which
shall be kept for public inspection, books, in which shall be re-
corded the amount of capital stock subscribed, and by whom ; the
names of the owners of stock and amount by them respectively,
the amount of stack paid in and by whom, the transfers of said
stock; the amount of its assets and liabilities, aud the names
and place of residence of its officers. The directors of every
railroad corporation shall, annually, make a report, under oath,
to the auditor 'of public accounts, or some officer to be designated
by law, of all their acts and doings, which report shall include
such matters relating to railroads as may be prescribed by law.
Aud the general assembly shall pass laws enforcing by suitable
penalties the provisions of this section.
i 10. The rolling stock, and all other movable property belong-
ing to any railroad company or corporation in this State, shall be
considered personal property, and shall be liable to execution
and sale in the same manner as the personal property of individ-
uals, and the general assembly shall pass no law exempting any
such property from execution and sale.
? 11. No railroad corporation shall consolidate its stock, pro-
perty or franchises with any other railroad corporation owning a
parallel or competing line; and in no case shall any consolida-
tion take place except upon public notice given, of at least sixty
days, to all stockholders, in such manner as may be provided by
law. A majority of the directors of any railroad corporation,
now incorporated or hereafter to be incorporated by the laws of the
State, shall be citizens and residents of this State.
? 12. Railways heretofore constructed, or that may hereafter
be constructed in this State, are hereby declared public high-
ways, and shall be free to all persons for the transportation of
their persons and property thereon, under such regulations as
may be prescribed by law. And the general assembly shall, from
time to time, pass laws establishing reasonable maximum rates
of charges for the transportation of passengers and freight on the
different railroads in this State.
I 13. No railroad corporation shall issue any stock or bonds,
except for money, labor or property actually received, and ap-
plied to the purposes for which such corporation was created ;
and all stock dividends, and other fictitious increase of the capi-
tal stock or indebtedness of any such corporation, shall be void.
The capital stock of no railroad corporation shall be increased
for any purpose, except upon giving sixty days' public notice, ia
such manner as may be provided by law.
§ 14. The exercise of the power, and the right of eminent do-
main shall never be so construed or abridged as to prevent the tak-
ing, by the general assembly, of the property and franchises of
incorporated companies already organized, and subjecting them
to the public necessity the same as of individuals. The right of
trial by jury shall be held inviolate in all trials of claims for
compensation, when, in the exercise of said right of eminent do-
main, any incorporated company shall be interested either for or
against the exercise of said right.
§ 15. The general assembly shall pass laws to correct abuses
and prevent unjust discrimination and extortion in the rates of
freight and passenger tariffs on different railroads in this State,
and enforce such laws, by adequate penalties, to the extent, if
necessary for that purpose, of forfeiture of their property and
franchises.
ARTICLE XII.
? 1. Persons composing the Military. 1 § 4. Privilege from Arrest.
^ :i. Organization — Equipment — Dis- § 5. Records, Banners .-ind Relics,
cipline. g 6. Exemption from militia duty,
g 3. Commissions of Officers. (
? 1. The militia of the State of Illinois shall consist of all able-
bodied male persons, resident in the State, between the ages of
eighteen and forty-five, except such persons as now are, or here-
after may be, exempted by the laws of the United States, or of
this State.
§ 2. The general assembly, in providing for the organization,
equipment and discipline of the militia, shall conform as nearly
as practicable to the regulations for the government of the
armies of the United States.
J 3. All militia officers shall be commissioned by the gover-
nor, and may hold their commissions for such time as the general
assembly may provide.
§ 4. The militia shall, in all cases, except treason, felony or
breach of th^ peace, be privileged from arrest during their at-
tendance at musters and elections, and in going to and returning
from the same.
§ 5. The military records, banners and relics of the State, shall
be preserved as an enduring memorial of the patriotism and
valor of Illinois, and it shall be the duty of the general assembly
to provide by law for the safe keeping of the same:
J 6. No person having conscientious scruples against bearing
arms, shall be compelled to do militia duty in time of peace :
Provided, such person shall pay an equivilent for such exemp-
tion.
ARTICLE XIIL
WAREHOUSES.
I 1. What deemed Public Warehouse;
i ± Sworn weeklyatatements require
^ :i. Examination of property stored.
i 4. Carriers to deliver full Weight.
10
I 3 5. Delivery of Grain hy Railroadi^.
U r.. powornnd Duty of tht* Legislature.
^ 7. Grain InspectioQ— ProtectioQ of
1 Dealers^
HISTORY OF RANDOLFB, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
503
J 1. All elevators or storehouses where grain or other property
is stored for a compensation, whether the property stored bo kept
separate or not, are declared to be public warehouses.
I 2. The owner, lessee or manajrcr of each and every public
warehouse situated in any town or city of not les3 than 100,000
inhabitants, shall make weekly statements under . oatli, before
som.i officer to be designated by law, and keep the same posted
in some conspicuous place in the office of such warehouse, and
shall also file a copy for public examination in such place as
shall be designated by law, which statement shall correctly set
forth the amount and grade of each and every kind of grain in
such warehouse, together with such other property as may be
stored therein, and what warehouse receipts have been issued,
and are, at the time of making such statement, outstanding there-
for; and shall, on the copy posted in the warehouse, note daily
such changes as may be made in the ([uantity and grade of grain
in such warehouse ;" and the dilTercnt grades of grain shipped in
separate lots, shall not be mixed with inferior or superior grades,
without the consent of the owner or consignee thereof.
J 3. The owners of property stored in any warehouse, or holder
of a receipt for the same, shall always be at liberty to ex.imine
such property stored, and all tlie boolis and records of the ware-
house in regard to such property.
I 4. All railroad companies and othercommon carriers on rail-
roads shall weigh or measure grain at point? where it is shipped,
and receipt for the full amount, and shall bo responsible for the
delivery of such amount to the owner or consignee thereof, at
th« place of destination.
\ 5. All railroad companies receiving and transporting grain
in bulk or otherwise, shall deliver the .«ame to any consignee
thereof, or any elevator or public warehouse to which it may he
consigned, provided such consignee, or the elevator or public
warehouse can be reached by any track owned, leased or used,
or which can be used, by such railroad companies; and all rail-
paad companies shall permit connections to be made with their
track, so that any such consignee, and any public warehouse,
coal bank or coal yard, may be reached by the cars on said rail-
road.
J 6. It shall be the duty of the general assembly to pass all
necessary laws to prevent the issue of false and fr.iudulent
warehouse receipts, and to give full elfect to this article of the
constitution, which shall be liberally construed so as to protect
producers and shippers. And the enumeration of the remedies
herein named shall not be constnicd to deny to the general as-
sembly the power to prescribe by law such other ard further
remedies as may be found expedient, or to deprive any person
of existing common law remedies.
I 7. The general assembly shall ])ass laws for the inspection
of grain, for the protection of producers, shippers and receivers
of grain and produce.
ARTICLE Xn'.
AMENDMENTS TO THE COSSTITtJTIOX.
i 1. By a Constitutional Convention. | J 2. Proposed by the Legislature.
? 1. 'Whenever two-thirds of the members of each house of
the general assembly shall, by a vote entered upon the journals
thereof, concur that a convention is necessary to revise, alter or
amend the constitution, the question shall be submitted to the
electors at the next general election. If a majority voting at
the election vote tor a convention, the general assembly shall, at
the next session, provide for a convention, to consist of double
the number of the members of the .senate, to be elected in the
same manner, at the same places, and in the same districts. The
genera! assembly shall, in the act calling the convention, desig-
nate the day, hour and place of its meeting, fix the pay of its
members and officers, and provide for the payment of the same,
together with expenses necessarily incurred by the conventitn
in the performance of its duties. Before proceeding, the members
shall take an oath to support the constitution of the United
States, and of the State of Illinois, and to faithfully discharge
their duties as members of the convention. The qualification of
members shall be the same as that of members of the senate,
and vacancies occurring shall be filled in the manner provided
for filling vacancies in the general assembly. Said convention
shall meet within three months after such election, and prepare
such revisions, alterations or amendments of the constitution as
shall be deemed necrssarv', which shall be submitted to the elec-
tors for their ratification or rejection, at an election appointed by
the convention for thiit purpose, not less than or more than six
months after the adjournment thereof; and unless so submitted
and approved by a majority of the electors voting at the election,
no such revisions, alterations or amendments shall take cticct.
I 2. Amendmentit) this constitution may be proposed in either
house of the general assembly, and if the same shall be voted
for by two-thirds of all the members elected to each of the two
houses, such proposed amendments, together with the yeas and
nays of each house thereon, shall be entered in full on their re-
spective journals, and .said amendments shall be submitted to the
electors of this State for adoption or rejection, at the next elec-
tion of members of the general assembly, in such manner as may
be prescribed by law. The proposed amendments shall be pub-
lished in full at least three months precciliug the election, and
if a majoritv of electors voting at said election shall vote for the
proposed amendments, they shall become part of this constitu-
tion. But the general a-sseinbly shall have no power to propose
amendmen's to more than one article of this constitution at the
same session, nor to the same article ofteuer than once in four
years.
SEPARATE SECTION'S.
Illinois ronl'al n.ailron.1. I unir-ipal Subscription to Corpor*-
lllinois and Michigan Canal. | tioiis.
No contract, obligation or liability whatever, of the Illinois
Central Railroad Company, to pay any money into the State
treasury, nor any lien of the State upon, or right to tax property
of said companv, in accordance with the provisionsof thecharter
of said company, approved Feb. 10,in the year of our Lord 1851,
shall ever be released, suspended, modified, altered, remitted, or
in anv manner diminished or impaired by legislative or other
authority ; and all moneys derived from said company, after the
p.ayment of the State debt, shall be appropriated and set apart
for the payment of the ordinary expenses of the State govern-
ment, and for no other purposes whatever.
.MrSICIPAL SUBSCEIPTIOXS TO UAILIiOADS OR PEIT ATE CORPORA-
TIONS.
Ko countv, city, town, township or other municip.alify shall ever
become subscriber to the capital stock of any railroad or private
corporation, or make donation to, or loan it.s credit in aid of such
corporation : Provided however, that the adoption of this article
shal not be construed a; afTecting the right of any such munici-
palitv to make sucli subscriptions where the same have been au-
thorized, under existing laws, by a vote of the people of such
municipalities prior to such adoption.
CAN.VL.
The Illinois and Michigan Canal shall never be sold or leased
until the specific proposition for the sale of lea.se thereof shall
have first been submitted to a vote of the people of the State, at
a general election, and have been approved by a majority of all
t'le votes polled at such election. The general assembly shall
never loan the creilit of the State, or make approi)riations from
the treasury thereof, in aid of railroads or canals : Provided, that
any surplus earnings of any canal may be appropriated for its
eniargemeut or extension.
SCHEDULE.
9, I. Laws in force remain valid. ] ? 4. Prese
i 2. Fines, Penalties, and Forfeitures, i .i. .\ll ex
j 3. Recogniianees, Bonds.ObligationsI g 0. Perso
That no inconvenience may arise from the nller.i
In the constitution of this State and to carry the sii
hereby ordained and declared :
? 1. That all Laws in force at the adoption of this constitution,
not inconsistent therewith, and all rights, actions, prosecutions,
claims, and contracts of this State, individuals or bodies corpor-
ate, shall continue to be as valid as if this constitution had not
been ad<ipted.
? 2. Th.at all fines, taxes, penalties and forfeitures, due and
owing to the State of Illinois under the present constitution and
laws, shall inure to the use of the people of the State of Illinois
under this constitution.
? .3. Recognizances, bonds, obligations, and all other instruments
entered into or executed before the adoption of this constitution,
to the people of the State of Illinois, to any State or county officer
or public bodv, shall remain binding and valid ; and rights end
liabilities upon the same shall continue, and all crimes and mis-
demeanors shall be tried and punished as though no change had
been made in the constitution of this State.
5 4. County courts for the transaction of county business in
counties not having adapted township organization, shall continue
in existence and exercise their present jurisdiction until the
11
nt cnnnty Courts continued'
:)stinK Courts continued.
Qs now in Office continued.
:)i)4
msTOh'Y OF RAiSDOhPir, MOXROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
lio;inl .^|■ county I'omniis^ioiu'r!! lu-ovidi'd i:i Ihis constitutioTi is
ori:.ini/iiI in iHir-^u:i!ut' rt" a;i ;u't i>t' llio ^I'lu-riil usscnihly ; and
till- louniy ci'Uits 1:1 nil o:\w\- rmintii-^ shall liavo the saiiic' power
and juri>di<.-tiiMi tlu'y Jiow ims.-css unlil ntlnTwisc imividcd by
ixi'iioral law.
I ■"!. All I'xisUnLT I'OurN wliirh are not in this constitution
s;H>cially tvuinierati'il. shall I'iniliiuu' in cxistcnco and exorcise
tlu'ir present juri^dieliou until otherwise provided bylaw.
'i 1!. All persons now tillinj; any oiiiec or appointment shall
eoutinue in the exercise of the duties thereof according to their
respective commissions or appointments, unless by this constitu-
tion it is otherwise directed.
I 1"^. All laws of the State of Illinois, and all official writings,
ami the e-xeeutive, le.L;islative and judicial }iroccedings, shall be
conducted, preserved and published in no other than the English
langnaire.
I I'.l. The general assembly shall pass all laws necessary to
carry into ctTect the provisions of this constitution.
I id. The circuit clerks of the different counties having a pop-
ulation over si.xty thousand, shall continue to be recorders (ex-
offioio) for their respective counties, under this constitution, until
the expiration of their respective terms.
I 21. The .judges of all courts of record.5 in Coolc County shall,
in lieu of any salary provided for in this constitution, receive the
compensation now provided by law until the adjournment of the
first session of general assembly after the adoption of this con-
Blitution.
I 22. The present judge of the circuit court of Cook county
shall continue to hold the circuit court of Ijake county until
otherwise provided by law.
I 23. When this constitution shall be adopted, and take efTect
as the supreme law of the State of Illinois, the two-mill tax pro-
vided to be annually assessed and collected upon each dollar's
worth of taxable property, in addition to all other taxes, as set
forth in article fifteen of the now existing constitution, shall cease
to be assessed after the year of our Lord one thousand eight
hundred and seventy.
5 21. Nothing contained in this constitmtion shall be so con-
strued as to deprive the general assembly of the power to author-
ize the city of Quincy to create any indebtedness- for railroad or
municipal purposes, for which the people of said city shallhave
voted, and to which they shall have given, by such vote, their
assent, prior to the thirteenth day of December, in the year of
our Lord one thousand eight hundred and sixty-nine: Provided,
that no such indebtedness, so created, shall in any part thereof
be paid by the State, or from any State revenue, tax or fund, but
the same shall be paid, if at all, by the said city of Quincy alone,
and by taxes to be levied upon the taxable property thereof:
And provided, further, that the general assembly shall have no
pjwer in the premises that it could not exercise under the pre-
sent constitution of this State.
I 2o. In case this constitution and the articles and sections
submittexl separately be adopted, the existing constitution shall
cease in all its provision? ; and in case this constitution be adopted,
any one or more of its articles or sections submitted separately
be defeated, the provisions of the existing constitution (if any)
on the same subject shall remain in force.
i 26. The provisions of this constitution required to be exe-
cuted prior to the adoption or rejection thereof shall take effect
and be in force immediately.
Done in convention at the capital, in the city of Springfield,
on the thirteenth day of May, in the year of our Lord one thou-
sand eight hundred and seventy, and of the independence of the
United States of America the ninety-fourth.
In witness whereof, we have hereunto subscribed our names
CHARLES HITCHCOCK, President.
William J. Allen,
John Abbott,
James C. Allen,
Elliott Anthony,
Wm. R. Archer,
Henry I. Atkins,
Robert A. King,
Jas. McCoy,
Charles E. McDowell,
William C. Goodue,
Joseph Medill,
Clifton H. Moore,
James G. Bayne,
R. M. Benjamin,
II. P. II. Brownwell,
0 U. Browning,
Wm. O. Botvman,
Silas L. Bryon,
II. P. Buxton,
Daniel Cameron,
AVilliam Cary,
Lawrence S. Church,
Hiram H. Cody,
W. F. Coolbaugh,
Alfred JI. Craig,
Robert J. Cross,
Samuel P Cummings,
John Dement,
G. S, Eldridge,
James W. English.
David Ellis,
Ferris Foreman,
Jesse C. Fox,
Miles A. Fuller,
John P. Gamble,
Addison Goodcll,
John C. Haines,
Elijah M. Haines,
John W. Hankins,
E. P. Hanna,
Joseph Hart,
Abel Harwood,
Milton Hay,
Samuel Snowden Hayes,
Jesse S. Hildrup,
Jonathan Merriam,
Joseph Parker,
Samuel C. Parks,
Peleg S. Perley,
J. S. Poage,
Edward Y. Rice,
James P. Robinson,
Lewis W. Ross,
William P. Pierce,
N. J. Pillsbury,
Jno. Scholfield,
James M. Sharp,
Ilenrv Sherrell,
W. li. Snyder,
O. C. Skinner,
Westel W. Sedgwick,
Charles F. Springer,
John L. Tincher,
C. Truesdale,
Henry Tubbs,
Thomas J. Turner,
Wm. H. Underwooil,
Wm. L. Vandeventer,
Henry W. Wells,
George E. Wait,
George W. Wall,
R. B. Sutherland,
D. C. Wagner,
Cieorge R. Wendling,
Chas. Wheaton
L. D. Whiting,
John H. Wilson,
Orlando H. Wright.
-John Q. Harmon, Secretartj.
Daniel Shepard, First Assistant [Secretary.
A. H. Swain, Second Assistant Secretary.
Office oj Secretary.
IOeohgeH. Haklow, Secretary of the State of Illinni<:, do hereby eertify
that the foregoing is a true copy of the constitution of the State of Illinois
adopted in convention the 13th dav of May, 18711, ratified by a vote of tlie peo-
ple tlie 2nd day of July, 1870, and in force on tlie 8th day of August, 1870, and
now on file in tnis office. In testimony whereof I hereto set my hana and affix
the Great Seal of State, at the city of 'Springfield, the 31st day of March, A. D.
1873.
GEO. H. UABLOW, Secrctanj of Stale.
AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION.
Amending section 31, artic!e 4.
ratified bv a vote of tlie people No
Governor November 29, 1878.
Section 31, Article 4.
iOfU
tricts, and vest the corpon
The General Assembly may pas« la^vs permitting tho r
struct drains ditche*, and leveew fr>rn£ricultiirai, sanitary and mininji purposes
of others, and piovide fur the organization of drainage dis-
rvuthorities thereof witli power to construct and
ins 'and ditcher, and to keep in repair all drains, ditches
and levees heretofore constructed under the laws of this State, by special as-
sessments upon the property benelited thereby.
Amending section 8, article 10. Proposed by the General Assembly, 1879,
ratified by a vote of the people IS'ovemuer 2, 1&8(), proclaimed adopted by the
Governor November 22, 1880 ;
Section 8, Ae
!lO.
In each county (here shnll be elected the
general election to be hi-M mu tht- Tursday at
■ing county officer^, at the
tirst Monday in November,
A D.1882: A county jii'l^"-. <Miiniv <-l. rk, sh.iitt, rm-l tr« asurcr ; and at the
election to be held ^n the Tiu-sduv al'u-r the first Mundny in November, A. D.
1884, a coroner and clerk of the circuit court, (who may be e.c-offino recorder of
deeds, except in counties having 6i),000 and more inhabitants, in which coun-
ties a recorder of deeds shall be elected at the general election in 1884). Each
of said oflReers shall enter upon the duties of his office, respectively, on the
first Monday of December after his election, and they shall hold their respec-
tive offices for the term of four years, and until their successors are elected
and qualified : Provided, that no person having once been elected to the office
of sheriff, or treasurer, shall be eligible to re-election to said office for four
years after the expiration of the term for which he shall have been elected.
12
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH ilOMlOE AND PEIiliV COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
505
DECLARATION OF INDEPENDENCE.
'Wlicn, in the course of hiiinan events, it becomes necessary
for one people to dissolve the political hands which have con-
nected them with another, and to iissume amon^ the powers of
the earth, the separate and e(iual station to which the laws of
nature and of nature's Cunl entitle them, a decent respect to
opinions of mankind reiinires that they should declare the causes
which impel them to the separation.
We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are cre-
atcil equal ; that tliey are endowed by their Creator with certain
Uiialienahle rights; that annnig these are life, liberty and the
pursuit of hapjiiness. That to secure these rights, governments
are instituted among men, deriving their just powers from the
consent of the governed ; that, whenever any I'orm of govern-
ment becomes destructive of these ends, it is the right of the
people to alter or to abolish it, and to institute a new govern-
ment, laying its foundation on such ]iriiu-i|'les. and organizing
its powers in such form xs to them shall suein must likely to ef-
fect their safety and happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate
that governments long established should not be changed for
light and transient causes ; and, accordingly, all experience hath
shown that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are
sufferable. than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to
which tlu y are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses
and nsuri)ations, pursuing invariably the same object, evinces a
design to reduce them under absolute despotism, it is their right,
it is their duty to throw off such government, and to provide
new guards for their future security. Such li is been the patient
sutfcrauce of these colonies, and such is now the necessity which
constrains them to alter their former systems of government.
The history of the present King of (Jreat Britain is a history of
repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct oliject the
establishment of an alisolute tyranny over these States. To
prove this let facts be submitted to a candid world :
He has refused bis assent to laws the most wholesome and
necessary fur the public good.
lie has furbiddcn his Governors to passl.aws of immediate and
pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his
assent should be obtaineil ; and when so suspended, he has utterly
neglected to attend to them.
He has refused to passother laws for the accommodation of iarge
districts of people, unless those people would reliii'iiiish the right
of representation in the legislature; a right incstimalile to them,
and tormi<lable to tyrants only.
lie h:is ciillid together legli.slative bodies at places unusual,
uncomlortablc. and distant from the depository of their public
records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance
with his measures.
He has dissolved representative houses repeatedly for oppos-
ing, with manly firmness, his invasions on the rightsof the peo-
ple.
He has refused, for a long time after such dissolution, to cause
others to be elected ; whcrcl)y the legislative powers, incapable
of annihilation, have returned to the people at large for their
exercise; the State remaining, in the meantime, exposed to all
the danger of invasion from without, and convulsions within.
He has endeavored to prevent the pojjulation of these States ;
for that purpose, obstructing the laws for naturalization of for-
eigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migration
hither, and raising the conditionsof new appropriations of lands.
He has obstructed the administration of justice, by refusing
his assent to laws for establishing judiciary powers.
He has made judges dependent on his will alone, for the ten-
ure of their offices, and the amount and paymentof their salaries,
He hiLs erected a multitude of new offices, and sent hither
swarms of officers to harass our people, and eat out their sub-
stance.
He has kept among us, in times of peace, standing armies,
■without the consent of our legislature.
He has afl'ected to render the military independent of, and
superior to, the civil power.
He has combined, with others, to subject us to a jurisdiction
foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giv-
ing his assent to their acts of pretended legislation.
For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us.
For protecting them, by a mock trial, from puiiishnient, for
any murders they should commit on the inhabitants of these
States.
For cutting off our trade with all parts of the world:
For imposing taxes on us without our consent :
For depriving us, in many cases, of the benefits of trial by
jury :
For transporting us beyond seas to be tried for pretended of-
fences :
For abolishing the free system of Engli.sh law in a neighbor-
ing province, establishing therein an arbitrary government, and
enlarging its boundaries, so as to render it at once an example
and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into
these colonies :
For taking away our charters, abolishing our most valuable
laws, and altering fundamentally, the powers of our govern-
ments :
For suspending our own legislatures, and declaring themselves
invested witli power to legishite for us in all cases whatsoever.
He has alidieated government here, by declaring us out of his
protection, and waging war against us.
He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our
towns, and destroyed the lives of our jieople.
He is, at this time, transporting large armies of foreign mer-
cenaries to complete the work of death, desolation and tyranny,
already begun, witli circumstances of cruelty and perfidy scarcely
paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the
head of a civilized nation.
He has constrained our felUnv-citizens, taken captive on the
high seas, to bear arms against their country, to become the exe-
cutioners of their friends and brethren, or to fall themselves by
their hands.
He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has en-
deavored to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merci-
less Indian savages, whose known rule of warfare is an undis-
tinguished destruction of all ages, sexes, and conditions.
In every stage of these oiijjressions, we have petitioned for re-
dress, in "the most humble terms; our repeated |>ctitioiis have
been answered only by repeated injury. A prince, whose charac-
ter is thus marked by every act which may define a tyrant, is
unfit to be the ruler of a free people.
Ncjr have we been wanting in our attention to our British
brethren. We have warned them from time to time, ot attempts
made by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction
over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our
emigration and settlement here. We have ajipealcd to their
native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them, by
the ties of our common kindred, to disavow these usurpati(ms,
which would inevitably interrujitour connections and correspon-
dence. They, too, have been deaf to the voice of justice and
consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity,
which denounces our separation, and hold them, as we hold the
rest of mankind, enemies in war, in peace, friends.
We, tlicrefore the reprcs,-nt;itives of the UNITED STATES
OF AMERICA, in GENERAL CONGRESS assembled, appeal-
ing to the Supreme Judge of the \V(.rld tor the rectitude of our
intentions, do, in the name, and by the authority of the good
people of Ihr-e eolonicsi .solemnlv publish and declare, That these
United Colonies are, and of right ought to be, FREE AND
INDEl'lC.NDKNT STATES; that they are ab-olved from all
allegiance to the British crown, and that all jiolitieal connection
between them and the State of Great Britain, is. jiid ought to be,
totallv dissolved ; and that .as FREE AND l.NDEl'KNDENT
ST.\tKS, tbev have lull power to levy war, conclude peace, con-
tract allianecs, establish commerce, and to do all other acts and
things which INDEPENDENT STATES may of right do.
And, for the support of this declaration, and a firm reliance on
the protection of DIVINE PROVIDENCE, we mutually pledge
tj each other, our lives, our fortunes, and our sacred honor.
JOHN HANCOCK.
13
5C()
HISTORY OF RAJ^DOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES.
We, the people of tlic United States, in order to form a more
jiert'ect Union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquillity,
provide lin- the coinuKin defence, promote the general welfare
and secure i\\c hlc-i-injri of liberty to ourselves and our pos-
terity, dii Drd.iiii and e^tablisli this CONSTITUTION for the
United States of America.
ARTICLE I.
Section 1. All loni4;itiv.' imwers herein granted shall be
vested in a Congress nf the United States, which shall consist of
a Senate and House of Representatives.
Section' 2. The ILiu-c uf Iteprcsentative^ shall be composed
of iiuiub. IS chosen evcrv second vear by the people of the sev-
er.il S ;ii,-s ;ni 1 the clc.tors in eaih State shall have the qualiii-
cnt> ii irqui itc tor electors of the most numerous branch of the
St. I ■ I. ■-i-latiire.
Xo |., 1.-. ui shall be a Representative who shall not have at-
tained to the age of twenty-five years, and been seven years a
citizen of the United States, and who shall not, when elected, be
an inhabitant of that State in which he shall be chosen.
r.'lirc-ciitative^ and direct taxes shall be a|ipiirtioned .among
th ■ .eveiMl St.it.s whieh iiia\ be included wilbin lies Union, ac-
coi-diii^' lo tlieiv re.,;.eetiv.' iuimliers, which shall be iletei'mincd
by acblinj;' lo the whole number of tree persons including those
bound to service for a term of ye.ars, and excluding Indians not
tixed, three-fifths of all other persons. The actual enumeration
shall be made within three years after the first meeting of the
Congress of the United States, and within every subsequent term
of ten years, in such manner as they shall by law direct. The
number of Repre-cnt itives shall not cxiTcd one for evcrv thirty
thousand, but eaeh St iti' >li:ill liave ;it least one Kepre-i-iitativc ;
and until such e'liiui i- ;ti .ii .hall be made, the State of New
Hampshire shall be entitled loeh<.o>,- three, Massachusetts eight,
Rhode Island ami Providence I'lantations one, Connecticut five,
New York six, New .Ii'r ey fair, rcnn-ylvania eight, Delaware
one, Maryland six, Virginia ten, North Carolina five, and
Ge^rgia three.
When vacancies happen in the representation from any State,
the Executive authority thereof shall issue writs of election to
fill such vacancies.
The House of Representatives shall choose their Speaker and
other officers, and shall have the sole power of impeachment.
Section 3. The Senate of the United States shall be com-
posed of two Senators from eaeh State, chosen by the Legisla-
ture thereof, for six years ; and eaeh Senator shall have one vote.
Immediately after they shall be assembled in consequence of
the first election, they shall be divided as equally as may be into
three classes. The seats of the Senators of the first class shall
be vacated .at the expiration of the second year, of the sieoiid
class at the expiration of the fourth year, and of the third cbc-s
at the expiration of the sixth year, so that one-third may be
chosen every second year ; and if vacancies happen by resigna--
tion, or otherwise, during the recess of the Legislature of any
State, the Executive thereof may make temporary appointments
until the next meeting of the Legislature, jvhich shall then fill
such vacancies.
No )ierson shall be a Senator ivho shall not have attained to
the ae-e of thirty years, and been nine years a citizen of the
United Sidles, and who shall not, when elected, be an inhabitant
of that State for which he shall be chosen.
The Vice President of the United States sh.all be the President
of the Senate, but shall have no vote unless they be equally di-
vided.
The Senate shall choose their other officers, and also a Presi-
dent pro tempore, in the absence of the Vice President, or when
he shall exercise the office of President of the United States.
The Senate shall have the sole power to try all impeachments.
When sitting for that purpose they shall be on oath or affirma-
tion. When the President of the United States is tried, the
Chief .Tustice shall preside. And no person shall be convicted
without the eoncurrenee of two- thirds of the members present.
Judgment in cases of impeachment shall not extend further
than to removal from office, and disqualification to hold and en-
joy any office of honor, trust or profit under the United States;
but the party convicted shall nevertheless be liable and subject
to indictaicnt, trial, judgment and punishment according to law.
Section 4. Tlu' limes, j)laecs and manner of holding elections
fir Senators and l;c|>resciilatives, shall be prescribed in eaeh
State by the Legislature thereof; but the Congress may at any
time by law, make or alter such regulations, except as to the
places of choosing Senators.
The Congress shall assemble at least once in every year, and
such meeting shall be on the first Jlonday in December, unless
they shall by law appoint a diflerent day.
Section 5. Each house shall be the judge of the election,
returns and qualifications of its own members, and a majority of
eaeh shall constitute a quorum to do business; but a smaller
number nuay adjourn from day to day, and may be authorized to
coriipel the attendance of absent members in such manner, and
under such ]ienalties as each house may provide.
Each hous ■ may determine the rules of its proceedings, pun-
ish its metnlier- lor disorderly behaviour, and, with the concur-
rence of two-tliirds, expel a member.
Eaeh house shall keep a journal of its proceedings, and from
time to time publish the same cxcejiling such parts as may in
their judgment require .secrecy ; and the yeas and nays of the
members of either lioiise on any question shall, at the desire of
one-fifth of tlio-e |.ie-eiit, be entered on the journal.
Neither house, during the .session of Congress, shall, without
the consent of the other, adjourn for more than three days, nor
to any other place than that in which the two houses shall be
sitting.
Section 6. The Senators and Representatives shall receive a
compensation for their services, to be ascertained by law, and
paid out of the Treasury of the United States. They shall in
all eases, except treason, felony and breach of the peace, be
privileged from arrest during their attendance at the session of
their respective houses, and in going to and returning froni the
same ; and for any speech or debate in cither house they shall
not be questioned in any other place.
No Senator or Representative sh.all, during the time for which
he was elected, be appointed to any civil office under the author-
ity of the Uiii led States, \N Inch shall have been created, or the
emoluments whereof shall have been increased during such
time ; and no pei-son holding any office under the United States,
shall be a member of either house during Lis continuance in
office.
Section 7. All bills for raising revenue shall originate in the
House of Representatives : but the Senate may propose or con-
cur with amendments as on other bills.
Every bill which shall have pas.scd the House of Representa-
tives and the Senate, shall, before it becomes a law, be presented
to the President of the United States; if he approve he shall
sign it, but if not he shall return it with his objections to that
house in which it shall have originated, who shall enter the ob-
jections at large on their journal, and proceed to reconsider it.
If after such reconsideration two-thinls of that House shall
agree to pass the bill, it shall be sent, together with the objec-
tions, to the other house, by which it shall likewise be recon-
sidered, if approved by two-thirds of that House, it shall become
a law. But in all such cases the votes of both houses shall be
determined by yeas and nays, and the names of the persons vot-
ing for and against the bill shall be entered on the journal of
each house respectively. If any bill shall not be returned by
the President within ten days (Sundays excepted), after it shall
have been presented to him, the same shall be a law, in like man-
ner as if he had signed it, unless the Congress by their adjourn-
ment prevent its return, in which case it shall not be a law.
Every order, resolution or vote to which the concurrence of
Senate and House of Representatives may be necessary (except
on a question of adjournment], shall be presented to the Presi-
dent of the United States ; and before the .same shall take etfect,
shall be approved by him, or being disa]iproved by him, shall be
repassed by two-thirds of the Senate and House of Representa-
tives, according to the rules and limitations prescribed in the
case of a bill.
14
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MOXROL AXD PERRY COUXTIES, ILLINOIS.
Se Tiox 8. The Congress shall have power —
To lay and collect taxes, duties, imposts and excises, to pay
th2 debts and provide for the coininon defense and general wel-
fare of the United Slates; but all duties, imposts and excises
shill be uniform throughout the United States;
To borrow money on the credit of the United States;
To regulate commerce with foreign nations, and among the
ssveral States, and with tlie Indian tribes;
To establish a uniform rule of naturalization, and uniform
laws on the subject of bankruptcies throughout the United
States ;
To coin money, regulate the value thereof, and of foreign
coin, and fix the standard of weights and measures ;
To ])rovide for the punishment of couuterfeiting the securities
an 1 current coin of the United .States;
To establish [lost-oflices ^md post-roails ;
To promote tlie progres-! of science and useful arts, by secur-
ing for limited times to authors an i inventors the exclusive right
to their respective writings and discoveries;
To constitute tribunals iiiferior to the Sujireme Court ;
To define and pu lish piracies and felonies committed on the
high seas, and olfences against the law of nations ;
To declare war, grant letters of maniueand reprisal, and make
rule? concerning captures on land and water;
To raise and support armies, but no appropriation of money
to that use shall be for a longer term than two years;
To provide and maintain a navy ;
To make rules for the government and regulation of the land
and naval forces ;
To provide for calling forth the militia to execute the laws of
the Union, suppress insurrections and repel invasions;
To provide for organizing, arming and disciplining the militia,
and for governing such pact of them as may be employed in the
service of the United States, reserving to the States, respectively
the appointment of the officers, and the authority of training
the militia according to the discipline prescribed by Congress.
To exercise leiiislation in all cases whatsoever, over such dis-
tricts (not exceeding ten miles square), as may by the cession of
particular States and the acceptance of Congress become the
seat of the g jvernment of the United States, and to exercise like
authority over all places purchased by the consent of the Legisla-
ture of the State in whicii tlie same shall be, for the erection of
forts, magazines, arsenals, dock-yards and other needful build-
ings;— and
To make all laws which shall be necessary and proper for car-
rying into execution the foregoing powers, and all other powers
vested by this Constitution in tlie government of the United
States, or to anv department or officer tlierenf
Section 9. The migration or importation of such persons as
any of the States ujw existing shall think proper to admit, shall
not be prohibited by the Congress prior to the year one thousand
eight hundred and eight, but a tax or duty may be imposed on
such importation, not exceeding ten dollars for each person.
The privileges of the writ of h.ibeas corpus shall not be sus-
pended, unless when in cases of rebellion or invasion the public
safety may require it.
No billof attainder or ex-post facto law shall be passed.
No capitation or other direct tax shall be laid unless in pro-
portion to the census, or enumeration hereinbefore directed to
be taken.
No tax or duty shall be laid on articles exported from any
Sute.
No preference shall be given by any regulation of commerce
or revenue to the ports of one State over those of another ; nor
shall vessels bound to, or from one State, be obliged to enter,
clear, or pay duties in another.
No money shall be drawn from the Treasury, but in con-
sequence of appropriations made by law ; and a regular statement
and account of the receipts and expenditures of all public money
shall be published from time to time.
No title of nobility shall be granted by the United States ;
and no person holding any office of profit or trust under them,
shall without the consent of Congress, accept of any present,
emolument, office, or title, of any kind whatever, from any king,
prince, or foreign State.
Section 10. No State shall enter into any treaty, alliance, or
confederation; grant letters of marque or reprisal ; coin money ;
emit bills of credit; make anything but gold and silver coin a
tender in payment of debts; pass any bill of attainder, ex post
facto law, or law impairing the obligation of contracts, or grant
any title of nobility.
No State shall, without the consent of the Congress, lay any
imposts or duties on imports or exjiorts, except what may be ab-
solutely necessary for executing its inspection laws, and the net
produce of all duties and imposts laid by any State on imports
or exports, shall be for the use of the Treasury of the United
States ; and all such laws shall be subject to the revision and
control of the Congress.
No State shall, withcmt the consent of the Congress, lay any
duty on tonnage, keep troops or ships of war in time of peace,
enter into any agreement or compact with another State, or with
a foreign power, or engage in war, unless actually invaded or in
such imminent danger as will not admit of delay.
ARTICLE IL
Section 1. The Executive power shall be vested in a Presi-
dent of the United States of America. He shall hold his office
during the term of four years, an<l, together with the Vice Presi-
dent chosen for the same term, be elected as f<dlows :
Each .State shall appoint, in such a manner as the Legislature
thereof may direct, a number of electors equal to the whole num-
ber of Senators and llepresentatives to which the State may be
entitled in the Congress ; but no Senator or Keprcsentative, or
person holding an office of trust or profit under the United
States, shall be appointed an elector.
[*The electors shall meet in their respective States and vote
by ballot for two persons, of whom one at least shall not be an
inhabitant of the same State with themselves. And they shall
make a list of all persons voted for, and of the number of votes
for each ; which list they shall sign and certify, and transmit,
sealed to the seat of the government of the United States,
directed to the President of the Senate. The President of the
Senate shall, in the presence of the Senate and House of Repre-
sentatives, open all the certificates, and the votes shall then be
counted. Tlie person having the greatest number of votes shall
be the President, if .such number be a majority of the whole
number of electors ap])ointed ; and if there be more than one
who have such majority, and have an e(iual number of votes,
then the House of Representatives shall immediately choose by
ballot one of them for President ; and if no person have a major-
ity, then from the five highest on the list the said House shall in
like manner choose the President. But in choosing the Presi-
dent, the vote shall be taken by States, the representation from
each State having one vote; li quorum for this purpose, shall
consist of a member or members from two-thirds of the States,
and a majority of all the Stales shall be necessary to a choice.
In everv case, after the choice of the President, the person
having the greatest immber of votes of the electors shall be the
Vice President. But if there should remain two or more who
have equal votes, the Senate shall choose from them by ballot the
Vice President.]
The Congress may dctermime the time of choosing the elect-
ors, and the day on "which they shall give their votes; which day
shall be the same throughout the United States.
No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the
Ignited States at the time of the adoption of this Constitution,
sliall be elisrible to the office of IVesident; neither shall any per-
s m be eligible to that office who shall not have attained the age
of thirty-five years, and been fourteen years a resident within
the United States.
In case of the removal of the President from office, or of his
death, resignation, or inability to discharge the powers and
duties of the saicl office, the same shall devolve on the Vice
President and the Congress may by law provide for the case of
removal, death, resignation, or inability, both of the President
and Vice President, declaring what officer shall then act as
President, and such officer shall act accordingly, until the disa-
bilitv be removed, or a President shall be elected.
The President shall, at stated times, receive for his services a
compensation which shall neither be increased nor diminished dur-
ing the period for which he shall have been elected, and he shall
not receive within that period any other emolument from the
United States, or any of them.
Before he enter on the execution of his office he shall take the
following oath or atlirmation :
" I do solemnlv swear (or affirm) that I will faithfully execute
the office of President of the United St.ites, and will, to the best
of my ability, preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of
the United States."
• This clause within brackets has been superseded and annulled by the
XII Amendment.
15
508
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
Section 2. The President shall be cominandcr-in-chief of the
army and navy of the United States, and of the militia of the
several States, when called into the actual service of the United
States; he may require the opinion, in writing, of the principal
officer in each of the Executive departments, upon any subject
relating to the duties of their respective offices, and he shall have
power to grant reprieves and pardons tor otfences against the
United States, except in cases of impeachment. He shall
have power, by and with the advice and consent of the Senate,
to make treaties, provided two-thirds of the Senators present
concur ; and he shall nominate, and by and with the advice of
the Senate, shall appoint aniliassadors, other public ministers,
consuls, judges of the Supreme Court, and all other officers of
the United States whose appointments are not herein otherwise
provided for, and which shall be established by law ; but the
Congress may by law vest the appointment of such inferior
officers as they think proper in the President alone, in the courts
of law, or in the heads of departments.
Tiie President shall have power to fill up all vacancies thai
may happen during the recess of the Senate, by granting com-
missions which shall expire at the end of their next sessions.
Section 3. He shall from time to time give to the Congress
information of the state of the Union, and recommend to their
consideration such measures as he shall judge necessary and ex-
pedient ; he may, on extraordinary occasions, convene both
Houses, or either of them, and in case of disagreement between
them, with respect to the time of adjournment, he may adjourn
them to such time as he shall think proper ; he shall receive
ambassadors and other public ministers ; he shall take care that
the laws be faithfully executed, and shall commission all the
officers of the United States.
Section 4. The President, Vice President and all civil officers
of the United States, shall be removed from office on impeach-
mentfor, and conviction of, treason, bribery, or other high crimes
and misdemeanors.
ARTICLE III.
Section 1. The judicial power of the United States shall be
vested in one Supreme Court and such inferior courts as the
Congress may from time to time ordain and establish. The
judges, both of the Supreme and inferior courts, shall hold their
offices during good behaviour, and shall, at stated times, receive
for their services a compensation, which shall not be diminished
during their continuance in office.
Section 2. The judicial power shall extend to all cases, in
law and equity, arising under tliis Constitution, the laws of the
United States, and treaties made, or which shall be made, under
tlieir authority ; — to all cases affecting ambassadors, other public
ministers and consuls ; — ti) all cases of admiralty and maritime
jurisdiction ; — to controversies to which the United States shall
be a party ; — to controversies between two or more States ; —
between a State and citizens of another state; — between citizens
of different States; — between citizens of the same State claiming
lands under grants of different States, and between a State, or
the citizens thereof, and foreign States, citizens or subjects.
In all cases affecting ambassadors, other public ministers and
consuls, and those in which a State shall be a party, the Supreme
Court shall have original jurisdiction.
In all the other cases before mentioned the Supreme Court shall
have appellate jurisdiction both as to law and fact, with such ex-
ceptions, and under such regulations as the Congress shall make.
The trial of all crimes, except in cases of impeachment, shall
be by jury ; and such trial shall be held in the State where the
said crimes shall have been committed ; but when not committed
within any State the trial shall be at such place or places, as the
Congress may by law have directed.
Section 3. Treason against the United States shall consist
only of levying war against them, or in adhering to their enemies,
giving them aid and comfort. No person shall be convicted of
treason unless on the testimony of two witnesses to the same
overt act, or on confession in open court.
The Congress shall have power to declare the punishment of
treason, but no attainder of treason shall work corruption of
blood or forfeiture, except during the life of the person attainted.
ARTICLE IV.
Section 1. Full faith and credit shall be given in each State
to the public acts, records, and judicial proceedings of every other
State And the Congress may by general law prescribe the man-
ner in which such acts, records and proceedings shall be proved
and the effect thereof.
Section 2. The citizens of each State shall be entitled to the
all privileges and immunities of citizens in the several States.
A person charged in any State with treason, felony or other
crime, who shall flee from justice and be found in another State,
shall, on demand of the Executive authority of the State from
which he fled, be delivered up, to be removed to the State having
jurisdiction of the crime.
No person held to service or labor in one State, under the
laws thereof, escaping into another, shall, in consequence of any
law or regulation therein, be discharged from such service or
labor, but shall be delivered up on the claim of the party to
whom such service or labor may be due.
Sei/tion 3. New States may be admitted by the Congress into
this Union ; but no new State shall be formed or erected within
the jurisdiction of any other State ; nor any State be formed by
the junction of two or more States, or parts of States, without the
consent of the Legislatures of the States concerned, as well as of
the Congress.
The Congress shall have power to dispose of and make all
needful rules and regulations respecting the territory or other
property belonging to the United States ; and nothing in this
Constitution shall be so construed as to prejudice any claims of
the I'nittd Slates, or of any particular State.
Section 4. The United States shall guarantee to every State
in this Union a Republican form of government and shall pro-
tect each of them against invasion, and on application of the
Legislature, or of the Executive (wheu the Legislature cannot be
convened) against domestic violence.
ARTICLE V.
The Congress, whenever two-thirds of both Houses shall deem
it necessary, shall propose amendments to this Co nstitution, or
on the application of the Legislatures of two-thirds of the several
States, shall call a convention for proposing amendments, which
in either case, shall be valid to all intents and purposes, as a
part of this Constitution, when ratified by the Legislatures of
three-fourths of the several States, or by conventitms in three-
fourths thereof, as the one or the other mode of ratification may
be proposed by the Congress. Provided that no amendment which
may be made prior to the year one thousand eight hundred and
eight shall in any manner affect the first and fourth clauses in
the ninth section of the first article ; and th.at no State, without
its consent, shall be deprived of its equal suffrage in the Senate.
ARTICLE VI.
All debts contracted and engagements entered into, before the
adoption of this Constitution, shall be as valid against the
United States under this Constitution as under the Confedera-
tion.
This Constitution, and the laws of the United States which
shall be made in pursuance thereof, and all treaties made, or
which shall be made, under the authority of the United States,
.shall be the supreme law of the land; and the judges in every
State shall be bound thereby, anything in the Constitution or
laws of any State notwithstanding.
The Senators and Representatives before mentioned, and the
members of the several State Legislatures, and all Executive and
judicial officers, both of the United States and of the several
States, shall be bound by oath or affirmation, to support this
Constitution : but no religious test shall ever be Jtquired as a
qualification to any office of public trust under the United States.
ARTICLE VII.
The r-atifieation of the Convention of nine States shall be suffi-
cient for the establishment of this Constitution between the
States so ratifying the same.
Done in Convention by the unanimous consent of the States
present, the seventeenth day of September, -in the year of our
L'jrd one thousand seven hundred and eighty-seven, and of the
I'ldependence of the United States of America, the twelfth. In
Witness Whereof, We have hereunto subscribed our names. .
GEO. -W-VSIIINGTON,
President and Deputy from Virginia.
16
HJSlOEi OF RAXDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
r.09
ycte Hxmpshirr.
JVcw Jersey.
nelnwnre.
Nnrlh Ciroli.ui.
JohsLaxgdon,
■\VlL. I.IVIN'GSTON,
Geo. Read,
Wm. Blount,
Nicholas Oilman-.
W.M. Patterson,
JouN Dickinson,
Hu. Williamson,
David Rrearly,
Jacob Hroom,
Ricu'd Dobbs Spaight.
Massachusetts.
JONA. Dayto.s,
(ilNNlSG liEDFOBD.jR.
KiCUARl) lUSSET.
South Curolino.
Nathaniel Goruam,
RuFcs King.
Peniisylmnia.
Virginia.
J. Rutledge,
Charle,s I'inckney,
B. Franklin,
John Blair,
ChasCotesworth Pinckney
Connecticut.
lloiiT. .Morris,
Ja-mes Madiso.v, Jr.
Pierce Bftler.
A\'M. Paml. Johnso>?,
TlIO. FlTZ-SIMONS,
James Wilson,
Thom.\s Mikflin,
}ffiry1and.
EOGER SUEEMAN.
JAMF.S M'HenrY,
Georgia.
(lEO. Cly.mer,
Panl. Carrol,
William Few,
yew York.
.Tared Ingebsoll,
Dan. of St. Thos. Jenifer.
.\br. Baldwin.
.\LE.XAXDER Ha.MILTON.
Cioiv. Morris.
Attest:
WILLIAM JACKSOX, Secretary.
-*€se^3^*G3^9^^-
AMENDMENTS TO THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES.
Promised by Conjrcss, and ratified by the Leyislalures nf the several Stales, purstiant to the fifth article of the original Constitution.
ARTICLE I.
Congress shall make no l;iw respecting an establishment of
religion, or prohibiting the free e.xercise thereof; or abridging
the frecJom of speech, or of the press ; or the right of the people
peacefully to assemble, and to petition the government for a re-
dress of grievances.
ARTICLE II.
A well regulated militia being necessary tT the security of a
free St.ite, tbe right of the people to keep and bear arms shall not
be infringed.
ARTICLE in.
Xo soldier shall in time of peace be quartered in any house
without the consent of the owner, nor in time of war, but in a
manner to be prescribed by law.
ARTICLE IV.
The right the of people to be secure in their persons, houses,
papers, and eTects, against ui)roasnnable searches and seizures,
shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue but upon prob-
able cause, supported by oath or afhrmation, and jjarticularly
describing t'.ie place to be searched, and the person or things to
bo seized.
ARTICLE V.
No person shall be held to answer for a capital or otherwise
infamous crime, unless on a presentment or indictment by a
Grand Jury, e.Kcept in cases arising in the land or naval forces,
or in the militia when in actual service in time of war or public
danger ; nor shall any person be subject for the same offence to
be twice put in jeopartly of lifnor limb; nor sh.all be compelled
in anv criminal case to be a witness against himself, nor be de-
prived of life, liberty or property, without due process of Law ;
nor s'.iall private property be taken for public use, without just
compensation.
ARTICLE VI.
In all criminal prosecutions, th" accused shall enjoy the right
ti a speedy and public trial, by an impartial jury of the Sl.iteand
district wlierein the crime shall have been committed, which dis-
trict shall have been previously ascertained by law, and to be
informed of the nature and cause of the accusation; to be con-
fronted with the witnesses against him ; to have compulsory
process for obtaining witnesses in his favor, and to have the
assistance of counsel for his defense.
In suits :
ARTICLE VII.
; common law where the value in controversy shall
exceed twenty dollars, the right of trial by jury shall be pre-
served, and no fact tried by a jury shall be otherwise re-examined
in any court of tbe United States, than according to the rules of
the common haw.
ARTICLE VIII.
Excessive bails shall not be required, nor excessive fines im-
posed, nor cruel and unusual punishment inflicted.
ARTICLE IX.
The enumeration in this Constitution, of certain rights, shall
not lie construed to deny or disparage others retained by the
people.
ARTICLE X.
The powers not delegated to the United States by the Constitu-
tion, nor i)rohibited by it to the States, are reserved to the States
respectively, or to the people.
ARTICLE XL
The judicial power of the United States shall not be construed
to extend to any suit in law or equity commenced or prosecuted
against one of the United States by citizens of another Slate, or
by citizens or subjects of any foreign State.
ARTICLE XII.
The electors shall meet in their respective States, and vote by
ballot for President and Vice President, one of whom at least
shall not be an inhabitant of the same State with themselves ;
thev shall name in their ballot the person to be voted for as
President, and in distinct ballots the jierson voted for as Vice
President, and they shall make distinct lists of all persons voted
for as President, aiid all i)ers')ns voted for as Vice President, and
of the number of votes for each, which list they shall sign and
certify, and transmit sealed to the scat of government of the
United St.atcs, directed to the President of the Senate. The
President of the Senate -shall, in presence of the Senate and
House of Representatives, open all the certificates, and the votes
shall then b.^ counted. The person having the greatest number
of votes for President, shall be the President, if such number be
a m.TJoritv of the whole number of elector^ appointed ; and if no
person have such m.ijoritv. then from the persons having the
hizhest number not exceeding three on the list of those voted
for as President, the House of Representatives shall choose im-
mediatclv, by ballot, the President. But in choosing the Presi-
dent, the" vote shall be taken by States, the representation from
each Statp having one vote; a'quorum for this purpose shall con-
17
510
HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND PERRY COUNTIES, ILLINOIS.
sist of a member or members from two-thirds of the States, and a
majority of all the States shall be necessary to a choice. And if
the Hoiise of Representatives shall not choose a President when-
ever the right of choice shall devolve upon them, before the
fourth day of March next following, then the Vice President
shall act as President, as in the case of the death or other Consti-
tutional disability of the President. The person having the
greatest number of votes as Vice President, shall be the Vice
President, if such number be a majority of the whole number of
electors appointed, and if no pt'rson have a majority, then from
the two highest numbers on the list, the Senate shall choose the
Vice President; a quorum for the purpose shall consist of two-
thirds of the whole number of Senators, and a majority of the
whole number shall be necessary to a choice. But no person
constitutionally ineligible to the office of President shall be eli-
gible to that of Vice President of the United States.
ARTICLE XIII.
Section 1. Xcithor slavery nor involuntary servitude, except
as a punishment lor crime, whereof the party shall have been duly
convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place
subject to their jurisdictiim.
Section 2. Congress shall have power to enforce this article
by appropriate legislation.
ARTICLE XIV.
Section 1. All persons born or naturalized in the I'nited
States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the
United States, and of the State wherein they reside. No State
shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges
or immunities of citizens of the United States ; nor shall any
State deprive any person of life, liberty or property without due
process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the
equal protection of the laws.
Section 2. Representatives shall be appointed among the
several States according to their respective numbers, counting the
whole number of persons in each State, excluding Indians not
taxed ; but when the right to vote at any election for the choice
of electors for President and Vice President of the United States,
Representatives in Congress, the executive and judicial officers of
a State or the members of the Legislature thereof, is denied to
any of the male inhabitants of such State, being twenty-one years
of age and citizens of the United States, or in any way abridged,
except for participation in rebellion or other crimes, the basis of
representation therein shall be reduced in the pTonortion which
the number of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number
of male'citizens twenty-one years of agfe in such State.
Section 3. No person shall be a Senator or Representative in
Congress or elector of President and Vice President, or hold any
office civil or military, under the United States or under any
Staie who, having previously taken oath as Member of Congress,
or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State
Legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to
support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged
in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or com-
fort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may, by a vote of
two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.
Section 4. The validity of the public debt of the United
States authorized by law, including debts incurred for payment
of pensions and bounties for suppressing insurrection or rebellion,
shall not be questioned. But neither the United States
nor any State shall assume or pay any debt of obligation in-
curred in the aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United
States, orany loss for emancipation of any slave, but such debts,
obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void.
Section 5. The Congress shall have the power to enforce, by
appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.
ARTICLE XV.
Section!. The rights of citizens of the L'nited States to vote
shall not be denied or abridged by the United States on account of
race, color, or previous condition of servitude.
Section 2. Congress shall have power to enforce this article by
appropriate legislation.
18
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COMBINED HISTORY OF RANDOLPH, MONROE AND
3 0112 025399780