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HISTORY
OF
FULTON COUNTY
ILLINOIS
TOGETHER ^V1TII SKETCHES OF ITS CITIES, VILLAGES AND TOWNSHIPS, EDUCA-
TIONAL, RELIGIOUS, CIVIL, MILITARY, AND POLITICAL HISTORY: POR-
TRAITS OF PROMINENT PERSONS AND BIOGRAPHIES OF
REPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS,
KMRRACING ACCOUNTS OF TUK PKK-HISTORIC RACES, ABORIGINES, FRENCH.
ENGLISH AND AMERICAN CONQUESTS, AND A GENERAL REVIEW
OF ITS CIVIL, POLITICAL AND MILITARY HISTORY.
D1GE8T OF STATE LAWS.
ILLUSTRATED.
PEORIA:
CHAS. C. CHAPMAN & CO., '
1879a
ftGT-
^
.7. W. FRANKS A SONS,
PRINTERS, BINDERS AND PUBLISHERS,
PEORIA, ILL.
p
X^e.R.\AtsV-
PREFACE.
(U
O
/ For centuries prior to the coming of the pioneers the woodland and jirairie
; of Fulton county had been the home of the red man. He had full swav over
this, one of the finest sections of the globe. But nature's hand had been too
lavish in the distribution of natural advantages to let it remain longer in pos-
session of those who refused to develop, even in the slightest degree, any of
her great resources, accordingly she directed hitherward the Anglo Saxon.
The westward tread of the sturdy pioneer was heard and felt by the savage
race during the early part of the present century. On thej' came with a firm
resolute step, until this fair clime and country was reached, when they pitched
their tents and ere long a fruitful field was blooming where the large forest
trees and wild grass had waved in the breezes for hundreds of years, undis-
turbed. They transformed the wigwams into cities; dotted the knolls with
school-houses and churches; replaced the buffalo, deer, elk, ami wolf, which
had been driven further westward, with domestic animals ; erected factories,
built railroads, and reared a refined, enlightened and cultured people.
In this volume we have attempted to portray these changes; to picture
them that future generations, as well as the present, may know something of
what it cost to give them such a fair land. That they may have an idea of its
once primitive condition, and learn of the brave men and women who have
subdued the country; converted the wilderness into wbfft we now behold.
If we have placed facts upon record so that they are thus understood we will
have fulfilled our mission.
We have taken much care in recording the pioneer history, that coming
generations, those who will not have the early settler to relate to them the
history incident to the settlement and development of this county, may famil-
iarize themselves with it through this medium ; and that the reader may see
the county in its various stages of progression. We do not profess to have
fully delineated the trials, s .fferings, and hardships that were experienced in
converting even this fertile land from its virgin wildness into the luxuriant
and densely populated country it now is. I'Vo ! for human tongue or pen is far
from being adequate to that task.
350,54
/
PREFACE.
Different persons have given us honest and sincere, but nevertheless
conflicting accounts of the same events, and it has been both a difficult and
delicate task to harmonize them, and draw therefrom reasonable and
approximately correct conclusions. We had only one aim in view, one plan to
carry out, and that was, to record events impartialh' — to detail them as they
actualh' occurred.
That we have completed our work, fulfilled all our promises to the utter-
most, we feel conscientiously assured, and we submit the result of our labors
to the charitable consideration of this intelligent and liberal people. It must
not be expected that, in the multiplicity of names, dates, and events, no
errors will be detected. "We do not dare hope that in the numerous
and varied details this book is absolutly correct, nor is it expected that it is
beyond criticism, yet we believe it will be found to be measurably correct and
reliable. We have labored assiduously and Mith studious care to make it a
standard work of reference, as well as an authoritative record for future histo-
rians to build upon.
Believing a work of this nature would be comparatively incomplete with-
out speaking of the history of the State, of which Fulton county forms no
unimportant portion, we have carefully prepared a condensed, yet very com-
plete history of Illinois, which we incorporate in this volume. And as a
valuable aid in transacting every-day business, we append a carefully com-
piled digest of Illinois State Laws, which both the business man and farmer
will find of great value.
Before laying aside our pen, we de.sire to express our warmest thanks to
the editors of the various newspapei-s published throughout the county ; to
the county officials, and to the people in general for the assistance and liberal
patronage given us. ■»
CHAS. C. CHAPMAN & CO..
'— 1879. Publishers.
i
\
I
I
CONTE^^TS
HISTORY
MOUND-BUILDERS 17
INDIANS 21
Illinois Confederacy 23
Starved Rock 23
Sacs and Foxes 24
Manners and Customs 27
Single-handed Combat with Indians... 29
EARLY DISCOVERIKS 31
Nicholas Perrot 31
.Toliet and Marquette 31
l^aSalle's Explorations 33
Great Battle of the Illinois 34
Tonti Safe at Green Bay 41
I^aSalle's Assassination 43
FRENCH OCCUPATION 44
First Settlements 44
The Mississippi Company 45
ENGLISH RULE 47
Gen. Clark's Exploits 51
ILLINOLS 55
County of Illinois 55
NORTHWESTERN TERRITORY .55
Ordinance of 17S7 56
St. Clair Governor of N. W. Territory... 59
ILLINOIS TERRITORY 59
WAR OF ISrj— THE OUTBREAK .59
Massacre of Fort Dearborn (iO
Expeditions up the Mississippi..., 71
ILLINOIS AS A STATE 74
Organization 74
Derivation of the name "Illinois" 77
State Bank 7,S
LaFayette's Visit 79
Grammar and Cook (Jontrasted 82
HISTORY OF FULTON
CHAPTER III.
CHAPTER I.
EARLY SETTLEMENT 191
The Military Tract 191
Fulton County 191
Dr. Davison, the Hermit.. 194
John Eveland 195
Ossian M. Ross 196
Feuner Brothers 197 |
The Sergeants and Barnes 197
Sergeant's wedding 200 |
"When my Commission
Comes" 202
Other Settlers 203
The First Mail Carriers... i203
A Trading Expedition 204
Frightened by Indians... 204
The Battle of Malony's
Ferry 205
Trouble in Settling the
Military Tract 206
Robert Fulton 209
CHAPTER IL
EARLY SETTLEMENT— i
CONTINUED 2111
Early Preachers 211 i
Training day 212 1
A Few First Things 214
Organization of Fulton
County 218
Trade 219
Early Milling 221
Wild Hog.s 222
The Deep Snow 224
Sudden Change 227
High Water 227
The Severe Winter of
1842-3 228
Money 228
The Beautiful Prairies.. 230
Incidents of Pioneer
Life 232
What the Pioneers Have .
Done 235
OF ILLINOIS.
INDIAN TROUBLES
Winnebago War
BLACK HAWK WAR
Stillman's Run
Battle of Bad Axe
Black Hawk Captured
Biographical Sketch of Black Hawk
FROM 1834 TO 1842
Internal Improvements
Illinois and Michigan Canal
ilartvr for Liberty
PRAIRIE PIRATES.:
MORMON WAR
MEXICAN WAR
Battle of Bueiiii Vista
THE WAR FOR THE UNION
States Seceding
The Fall of Sumter
Call for Troops Promptly Answered
The War Ended— The Union Restored..
Schedule of Regiments
DUELS
DRESS AND MANNERS
PHY'SICAL FEATURES OF ILLINOIS
AGRICULTURE
GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS
Lieutenant Governors
State Officials
U. S. Senators
Representatives in Congress
CHICAGO
The Great Fire
Commerce of Chicago
STATES OF THE UNION
COUNTY.
County Court
'J'ownship Organization
County Expenditures...
CHAPTER VIII.
BLACK HAWK WAR
Troops Raised
IMPORTANT LABORS OF
COUNTY' COMMIS-
SIONERS' COURT 237
First Meeting 237
("ounty-Seat Located 239
Tavern Licenses 239
Ferry Licenses 240
More Justices of the
Peace 241
The First Court-House.. 241
First Treasurer 245
First Grand Jury 245
First Marriage 245
I'av for Assessment of
Taxes 246
First Petit Jury 247
Militia Precincts 247
First Marriage in Chi-
cago 248
Niew ("ommissioinerR
and a New Clerk 248
First Mart-iage License.. 249
Estray Pen 249
County Revenue 2.50
A New Court-House 250
Another Jail 251
The Present Court-
Hou.se 252
First Temperance Work 2.54
Paupers Sold 2.55
A New Jail 2.55
First Poor Farm 255
Last Meeting 256
CHAPTER IV.
GEOLOGY a57
CHAPTER V. /
ZOOLOGY' 265
CHAPTER VI.
BOTANY' 271
CHAPTER VII.
IMPORTANT LABORS
OF THj'. BOARD OF
SUPER .'ISORS 282
Stillman's Defeat
Horrible Massacre
The Westerfield Defeat.
CHAPTER IX.
CRIMINAL RECORD
CHAPTER X.
PIONEER LIFE
CHAPTER XI.
ARCHAEOLOGY
CHAPTER XII.
MEXICAN WAR
CHAPTER XIII
THE REBELLION
First Indications of the
War
First Call for Troops
Various Meetings Held
in the County
Death of Senator Doug-
las
A Picture of a Sad and
Desolate Home
Soldier's Aid Society...
Soldiers in Fulton Co...
The Close
Fulton County Volunteers
CHAPTER XIV.
THE BAR OF FULTON
COUNTY y
Pioneer Courts
Court Days
Circuit Judges
Pro.secuting Attorneys..
The Bar :..
Present Bar
83
83
84
87
90
91
92
95
95
102
104
118
119
125
126
127
128
137
ViS
141
149
1.54
1.55
157
160
161
162
165
170
172
173
177
282
283
288
289
290
292
294
294
307
318
335
340
S12
U-2
343
343
346
346
:M8
349
353
355
392
392
3i)4
394
39'
CONTENTS.
CHAPTER XV.
TOWNSHIP HISTOPJES:—
Astoria 409
Banner 469
Buckheart 477
Bernadotte 506
Canton 515
Cass 582
Deerfielfl 602
Ellisville 615
Fairview 623
Farmers' 648
Farmington 678
Harris 697
Isabel 712
Joshua 724
Kerton 748
Lee 760
Le\vistown 769
Liverpool 820
Orion 843
Pleasant 84-S
Starved Rock 25
An Iroquois Chief 37
Gen. Geo. R. Clark 49
Gen. Arthur St. Clair .58
Old Fort Dearborn 61
Old Kinzie House 65
Pontiae 69
Black Hawk 85
Abbott, Daniel 395
Addi.s, A. I) 468
Babcock, W. H 468
Barker, J. W 661
Beam, O. J 883
Bearce, Orson 369
Benson, Hon. Jesse 225
Bovington, E. L 733
Breed, C. G 571
Brown, Jacob 715
Brown, Mrs. Jacob 715
Bvbee, T. T 4S5
Chapman, S. S 449
Coleman, W. D 537
Colter, Hon. H. R 243
Cummings, Hon. S. P 431
Curtis Dr. L. W -537
Custer, P. Y 571
Foutch. John 721
Gallagher. P. W 873
Gardiner, J. H 727
Gardiner. Margaret 727
Haacke, Capt. David 297
Laws 1039
Jurisdiction of Courts 1039
County Court.*^ 1040
Com. of Highwavs 1040
Fences 1042
Drainage 1044
Trespa.ss of Stock 1014
Estravs 1015
Horses 1016
Marks and Brands 1017
Articles of Agreement 1017 ,
Notes 1018 I
.Judgment Note lOi'.i
fnterest 1049 |
'Is 10.51
nt 1055
1056
•es and Trust Deedsl057
>eds 1058
1058
e 1060
Putman 865
Union 880
Vermont 897
Waterford 936
Woodland 940
Young Hickory 969
CHAPTER XVI.
POLITICAL 975
Election Returns 976
CHAPTER XVII.
COUNTY OFFICIALS 984
CHAPTER XVin.
THE PRE.SS 990
Fulton County Ledger.. 991
Lewistown Democrat... 993
Canton Register 995
News-Chronicle 997
Vermont Chronicle 1000
Farmington News 1001
Weeklv Times 1002
Stream of Light 1004
Avon Sentinel 1005
II.HJSTRATIOX.S.
C, R.-I. & P. R. R. Depot... 99
Eye and Ear Infirmary Ill
Deaf and Dumb Institute... 115
Scene on Fox River 221
. Lincoln Monument. 137
Asylum for Feeble Minded 143
I Southern Normal Univer- i
sity 151 1
PORTRAITS.
Hartough, H. H 625
Herring. J. R 867
Herring, Mrs/M. A 867
Higgins, H .:.^^ 369
Holni.e.'?, C...j..-..r„.v 73:?
Hulit, N ■..„.,..;..'.™T 857
Hummel, I. M;.';........„ 801
Hummel, Mrs. I. M....^.:..... 80L
Hummel, Jessie L .SOI
John.son, B. C 733
Leslie, L. T 369
Maus, Jacob 825
McCall.J. H 207
McCune. J. L.. 8.51
McCune, Mrs. J. L 851
McDowell, W. M 261
Merrill, H. S 413
Miner, Wm 661
Moore, B. H -537
Mower\', Jacob 3:i3
Onion.'j. M 369
Orendorff. John .519
Orendorff, W. J .519
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
Days of Grace 1061 i
Limitation of Action 1061
Receipt.< 1062
Exemptions from Forced {
Sales 1062
Landlords and Tenants Uh;3
Criminal Law 1066
Taxes 10(W
Subscription 10<;9 '
Contract for Personal Ser-
vices 1070
Newsjjaper LiVjel 1071 |
Tender 1071 i
Drunkenness 1073
Marriage Contract 1074
School Months 1076
Infants 1076
Adoption of Children 1077
Church Organizations ...Wrt-i
Game .....1078 i
CHAPTER XIX.
RAILROADS lOOC
C, B. <fc Q.—
Rush%-ille Branch 1006
Quincv Branch 1009
St. L. Di\-ision 1009
T., P. & W. Rv 1010
Fulton Co. N.-G. Ry 1038
CHAPTER XX.
MLSCELLANEOUS 1014
C. & L. Plank Road 1014
Count\--.Seat Contest 1015
Matrimonial 1018
School Statistics 1020
Table of Distances 1022
Population 1023
Wealth of Fulton Co. -.1023
Fulton Countv Fair 1025
Avon Fair 1027
Reminiscences 1028
" Fulton County" 1032
Miscellaneous B i o g -
raphies 1035
Central Insane Hospital 160
Indufstrial University 160
The Crib 176
Court- House 190
Map of Fulton County 14-15
Present Jail 643
Old Court House 811
First Court- House. Frontispiece
Parlin, Wm 351
Peirsol, J. E 333
Peirsol, Dr. J. H 781
Phelps, Wm 791
Phelps, Mrs. Wm 791
Potts. L. W Si5
Powell, E. G 315
Quillin. E 857
Robb, Andrew 679
Ross, Mrs. Mary 771
Rothman, J. R 279
Sa-vill. J. M 315
Sheplev, T. J 571
Smith,'Wm. H 468
Standard, Thos 739
Standard, Rachel 739
Stockdale, Jas .537
TenEvck, Peter 625
Toler, Dr. B. C 413
Turner, James 468
Welch. Dr. J. K 873
Wedge, Dr. D. 0 825
Worrell, J. J 679
Millers 1080
Paupers 1080
Public and Private Convey-
ances 1082
Wages and Stakeholders 1083
Sunday , 10a5
Definition of Commercial
Terms 1085
Legal Weights and Meas-
ures 1085
Bees 1084
Dogs lf)81
Crueln- to Animals 108<i
Names. 108<>
U. S. Mails 108<;
Rates of Postage 1088
Rates of Postage on Third-
Cla.ss Matter 1069
Registered Matter 1090
Monev '^-''— io<tO
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HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
FORMER OCCUPANTS.
MOUND-BUILDERS.
The numerous and well-authenticated accounts of antiquities
found in various parts of our country, clearly demonstrate that a
people civilized, and even highly cultivated, occupied the broad
surface of our continent before its possession by the present In-
dians; but the date of their rule of the Western World is so re-
mote that all traces of their history, their progress and decav, lie
buried in deepest obscurity. Nature, at the time the first Euro-
peans came, had asserted her original dominion over the earth; the
forests were all in their full luxuriance, the growth of many cen-
turies; and naught existed to point out who and what they were
who formerly lived, and loved, and labored, and died, on the conti-
nent of America. This pre-historic race is known as the Mound-
Builders, from the numerous large mounds of earth-works left by
them. The remains of the works of this people form the most in-
teresting class of antiquities discovered in the United States. Their
character can be but partially gleaned from the internal evidences
and the peculiarities of the only remains left, — the mounds. They
consist of remains of what were apparently villages, altars, temples,
idols, cemeteries, monuments, camps, fortifications, pleasure
grounds, etc., etc. Their habitations must have been tents, struc-
tures of wood, or other perishable material; otherwise their remains
would be numerous. If the Mound-Builders were not the ancestors
of the Indians, who were they? The oblivion whicli has closed over
them is so complete that only conjecture can be given in answei to
the question. Those who do not believe in the common parentage
of mankind contend that they were an indigenous race of the West-
ern hemisphere; others, with more plausibility, think they came
from the East, and imagine they can see coincidences in the religion
of the Hindoos and Southern Tartars and the supposed theology of
18 mSTOKV ()1<" ILLINOIS.
the Mound- Builders, They were, no doubt, idolators, and it hh^
been conjectured tiiat the sun was tlie object of their adoration. Tl»e
mounds were generally built in a situation aifording a view of the
rising sun: when enclosed in walls their gateways were toward the
east; the caves in which their dead were occasionally buried alwaye
opened in the same direction; whenever a mound was partially en-
closed by a semi-circular pavement, it was on the east side; wheb
bodies were buried in graves, as was frequently the case, they were
laid in a direction east and west; and, tinully. medals have been
found representing the sun and his raj's of light.
At what period they came to this country, is likewise a matter oi
speculation. From the comparatively rude state of the arts among
them, it has been inferred that the time was verv remote. Their
axes were of stone. Their raiment, judging from fragments which
have been discovered, consisted of the bark of trees, interwoved
with feathers; and their military works were such as a people
would erect who had just passed to the pastoral state of society
from that dependent alone upon hunting and fishing.
The mounds and other ancient earth-works constructed by this
people are far more abundant than generally supposed, from the fact
that while some are quite large, the greater part of them are small
and inconspicuous. Along nearly all our water courses that are
large enough to be navigated with a canoe, the mounds are almost
invariably found, covering the base points and headlands of the
bluffs which border the narrower vallej's; so that when one finds him-
self in such positions as to command the grandest views for river
scenery, he may almost always discover that he is standing upon,
or in close proximity to, some one or more of these traces of the
labors of an ancient people.
GALEKA MOUNDS.
On the top of the high blufis that skirt the west bank of the Mis-
sissippi, about two and a half miles from (J-alena, are a number of
these silent monuments of a pre-historic age. The spot is one of
surpassing beauty. From that point may be obtained a view of a
portion of three States, — Illinois, Iowa and "Wisconsin. A hundred
feet below, at the foot of the perpendicular clifis, the trains of the
Illinois Central Railroad thunder around the curve, the portage is
in full view, and the " Father of Waters," with its numerous bayous
HISTOKV OK ILLINOIS. 19
and islands, sketches a grand pamorama for miles above and below.
Here, probably thousands of years ago, a race of men now extinct,
and unknown even in the traditions of the Indians who inhabited
that section for centuries before the discovery of America by Colum-
bus, built these strangely wonderful and enigmatical mounds. At
this point these mounds are circular and conical in form. The larg-
est one is at least forty feet in diameter at the base, and not less
than fifteen feet high, even yet, after it has been beaten by the
storms of many centuries. On its top stands the large stump of an
oak tree that was cut down about tifty years ago, and its annual
rings indicate a growth of at least 200 years.
One of the most singular earth-works in the State was found on
the top of a ridge near the east bank of the Sinsinawa creek in the
lead region. It resembled some huge animal, the head, ears, nose,
legs and tail, and general outline of which being as perfect as
if made bv men versed in modern art. The ridjje on which it was
situated, stands on the prairie, 300 yards wide, 100 feet in height,
and rounded on the top by a deep deposit of clay. Centrally,
along the line of its summit, and thrown up in the form of an
embankment three feet high, extended the outline of a quadruped
measuring 250 feet from the tip of the nose to the end of the
tail, and having a width of 18 feet at the center of the body. The
head was 35 feet in length, the ears 10 feet, legs 60 and tail 75. The
curvature in both the fore and hind leijs was natural to an animal
lying on its side. The general outline of the figure most nearly
resembled the extinct animal known to ojeoloo-ists as the Mcirathe-
rium. The question naturally arises. By whom and for what pur-
pose was this earth figure raised? Some have conjectured that
numbers of this now extinct animal lived and roamed over the prai-
ries of Illinois when the Mound-Builders first made their appearance
on the upper part of the Mississippi Valley, and that their wonder
and admiration, excited by the colossal dimensions of these huge
creatures, found some expression in the erection of this figure.
The bones of some similar gigantic animals were exhumed on this
stn'eam about three miles from the same place.
LARGE CITIES.
Mr. Breckenridge, who examined the antiquities of the Western
country ia 1817, speaking of the mounds in the American Bottom,
says: "The great number and extremely large size of some of
20 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
them may be regarded as furnishing, with other circumstances,
evidences of tlieir antiquity. 1 have sometimes been induced to
think that at the period wlien they were constructed there was a
population here as numerous as that which once animated the
borders of the Nile or Euphrates, or of Mexico. The most num-
erous, as well as considerable, of these remains are found in pre-
cisely those parts of the country where the traces of a numerous
population might be looked for, namely, from the mouth of the
Ohio on the east side of the Mississippi, to the Illinois river, and
on the west from the St. Francis to the Missouri. I am perfectly
satisfied that cities similar to those of ancient Mexico, of several
hundred thousand souls, have existed in this country."
It must be admitted that whatever the uses of these mounds —
whether as dwellings or burial places — these silent monuments
were built, and the race who built them vanished from the face
of the earth, ages before the Indians occupied the land, but their
date must probably forever baffle human skill and ingenuity.
It is sometimes difficult to distinguish the places of sepulture
raised by the Mound-Builders from the more modern graves of the
Indians. The tombs of the former were in general larger than
those of the latter, and were used as receptacles for a greater number
of bodies, and contained relics of art, evincina; a his-her deo'ree of civ-
ilization than that attained by the Indians. The ancient earth-
works of the Mound -Builders have occasionally been appropriated
as burial places by the Indians, but the skeletons of the latter may
be distinguished from the osteological remains of the former by
their greater stature.
What finally became of the Mound-Builders is another query
which has been extensively discussed. The fact that their works
extend into Mexico and Peru has induced the belief that it was
their posterity that dwelt in these countries when they were first
visited by the Spaniards. The Mexican and Peruvian works, with
the exception of their greater magnitude, are similar. Pelics com-
mon to all of them have been occasionally found, and it is believed
that the religious uses which tliey subserved were the same. If,
indeed, the Mexicans and Peruvians were the progeny of the
more ancient Mound-Builders, Spanish rapacity for gold was the
cause of their overthrow, and final extermination.
A thousand other queries naturally arise respecting these nations
lIlSrOKV OF ILLINOIS. 21
which now repose under the ground, but the most searching investi-
gation can give us only vagne speculations for answers. No histo-
rian has preserved the names of their mighty chieftains, or given an
account of their exploits, and even tradition is silent respecting
them.
INDIANS.
FoUowino; the Monnd-Builders as inhabitants of North America,
were, as it is supposed, the people who reared the magniticent
cities the ruins of which are found in Central America. This peo-
ple was far more civilized and advanced in the arts than were the
Mound-Builders. The cities built by them, judging from the ruins
of broken columns, fallen arches and crumbling walls of temples,
palaces and pyramids, which in some places for miles bestrew the
ground, must have been of great extent, magnificent and very pop-
ulous. When we consider the vast period of time necessary to erect
such colossal structures, and, again, the time required to reduce
them to their present ruined state, we can conceive something of
their antiquity. These cities must have been old when many of
the ancient cities of the Orient were being built.
The third race inhabiting North America, distinct from the
former two in every particular, is the present Indians. They
were, when visited by the early discoverers, without cultivation,
refinement or literature, and far behind the Mound-Builders in
the knowledge of the arts. The question of their origin has long
interested archasologists, and is the most difficult they have been
called upon to answer. Of their predecessors the Indian tribes
knew nothing; they even had no traditions respecting them. It is
quite certain that they were the successors of a race which had
entirely passed away ages before the discovery of the New World.
One hypothesis is that the American Indians are an original race
indigenous to the Western hemisphere. Those who entertain this
view think their peculiarities of physical structure preclude the
possibility of a common parentage with the rest of mankind.
Prominent among those distinctive traits is the hair, which in the
red man is round, in the white man oval, and in the black man flat.
A more common supposition, however, is that they are a derivative
race, and sprang from one or more of the ancient peoples of Asia.
In the absence of all authentic history, and when even tradition is
22 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
wanting, any attempt to point out the particular location of their
origin must prove unsatisfactory. Though the exact place of origin
may never be known, yet the striking coincidence of physical
organization between the Oriental type of mankind and the Indians
point unmistakably to some part of Asia as the place whence they
emigrated, which was originally peopled to a great extent by the
children of Shem. In this connection it has been claimed that the
meeting of the Europeans, Indians and Africans on the continent
of America, is the fulfillment of a prophecy as recorded in Gen-
esis ix. 27: "God shall enlarge Japheth, and he shall dwell in the
tents of Shem; and Canaan shall be his servant." Assuming the
theory to be true that the Indian tribes are of Shemitic origin,
they were met on this continent in the fifteenth century by the
Japhetic race, after the two stocks had passed around the globe by
directly difierent routes. A few years afterward the Hamitic
branch of the human family were brought from the coast of Africa.
During the occupancy of the continent by the three distinct races,
the children of Japheth have grown and prospered, while the called
and not voluntarv sons of Ham have endured a servitude in the
wider stretching: vallevs of the tents of Shem.
When Christopher Columbus had finally succeeded in demon-
strating the trutli of his theory that by sailing westward from Eu-
rope land would be discovered, landing on the Island of Bermuda
he supposed he had reached the East Indies. This was an error,
but it led to the adoption of the name of " Indians " for the inhab-
itants of the Island and the main land of America, by which name
the red men of America have ever since been known.
Of the several great branches of Xorth American Indians the
only ones entitled to consideration in Illinois history are the Algon-
quins and Iroquois. At the time of the discovery of America the
former occupied the Atlantic seaboard, while the home of the
Iroquois was as an island in this vast area of Algonquin popula-
tion. The latter great nation spread over a vast territory, and various
tribes of Algonquin lineage sprung up over the country, adopting,
in time, distinct tribal customs and laws. An almost continuous
warfare was carried on between tribes; but later, on the entrance of
the white man into their beloved homes, every foot of territory
was fiercely disputed by the confederacy of many neighboring tribes.
The Algonquins formed the most extensive alliance to resist the
encroachment of the whites, especially the English. Such was the
HISTORY OF ILLINIOS. 23
nature of Kin<^ Philip's war. This King, with his Algonquin
braves, spread terror and desolation throughout New England. With
the Algonquins as the controlling spirit, a confederacy of conti-
nental proportions was the result, embracing in its alliance the tribes
of every name and lineage from the Northern lakes to the gulf.
Pontiac, having breathed into them his implacable hate of the
English intruders, ordered the conflict to commence, and all the
British colonies trembled before the desolating fury of Indian
vengeance.
ILLINOIS CONFEDERACY.
The Illinois confederacy, the various tribes of which comprised
most of the Indians of Illinois at one time, was composed of five
tribes: the Tamaroas, Michigans, Kaskaskias, Cahokas, and Peorias.
The Illinois, Miamis and Delawares were of the same stock. As
early as 1670 the priest Father Marquette mentions frequent visits
made by individuals of this confederacy to the missionary station at
St. Esprit, near the western extremity of Lake Superior. At that
time they lived west of the Mississippi, in eight villages, whither
they had been driven from the shores of Lake Michigan by the
Iroquois. Shortly afterward they began to return to their old
hunting ground, and jnost of them finally settled in Illinois.
Joliet and Marquette, in 1673, met with a band of them on their
famous voyage of discovery down the Mississippi. They were
treated with the greatest hospitality by the principal chief. On their
return voyage up the Illinois river tliey stopped at the principal
town of the confederacy, situated on the banks of the river seven
miles below the present town of Ottawa. It was then called Kas-
kaskia. Marquette returned to the village in 1675 and established
the mission of the Immaculate Conception, the oldest in Illinois.
When, in 1679, LaSalle visited the town, it had greatly increased,
numbering 460 lodges, and at the annual assembly of the different
tribes, from 6,000 to 8,000 souls. In common with other western
tribes, they became involved in the conspiracy of Pontiac, although
displaying no very great warlike spirit. Pontiac lost his life by
the hands of one of the braves of the Illinois tribe, which so enraged
the nations that had followed him as their leader that they fell upon
the Illinois to avenge his death, and almost annihilated them.
STARVED ROCK.
Tradition states that a band of this tribe, in order to escape the
general slaughter, took refuge upon the high rock on the Illinois
24 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
river since known as Starved Rock. Nature has made this one of
the most formidable militarj' fortresses in the world. From the
waters which wash its base it rises to an altitude of 125 feet. Three
of its sides it is impossible to scale, while the one next to the land
may be climbed with difficulty. From its summit, almost as inac-
cessible as an eagle's nest, the valley of the Illinois is seen as
a landscape of exquisite beauty. The river near by struggles
between a number of wooded islands, while further below it quietly
meanders through vast meadows till it disappears like a thread of
liirht in the dim distance. On the summit of this rock the Illinois
were besieged by a superior force of the Pottawatomies whom the
great strength of their natural fortress enabled them to keep at bay.
Hunger and thirst, however, soon accomplished what the enemy
was unable to effect. Surrounded b}' a relentless foe, without food
or water, they took a last look at their beautiful hunting grounds,
and with true Indian fortitude lay down and died from starvation.
Years afterward their bones were seen whitening in that place.
At the beginning of the present century the remnants of this
once powerful confederacy were forced into a small compass around
Kaskaskia. A few years later they emigrated to the Southwest,
and in 1850 they were in Indian Territory, and numbered but 84
persons.
SACS AND FOXES.
The Sacs and Foxes, who figured most conspicuously in the later
history of Illinois, inhabited the northwestern portion of the State.
By long residence together and intermarriage they had substan-
tiall}' become one people. Drake, in his "Life of Black Hawk,"
speaks of these tribes as follows : " The Sacs and Foxes fought their
way from the waters of the St. Lawrence to Green Bay, and after
reaching that place, not only sustained themselves against hostile
tribes, but were the most active and courageous in the subjugation,
or rather the extermination, of the numerous and powerful Illinois
confederacy. They had many wars, offensive and defensive, with
the Sioux, the Pawnees, the Osages, and other tribes, some of which
are ranked among the most fierce and ferocious warriors of the
whole continent; and it does not appear that in these conflicts, run-
ning through a long period of years, they were found wanting in
this, the greatest of all savage virtues. In the late war with Great
Britain, a party of the Sacs and Foxes fought under the British
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 27
standard as a matter of choice; and in the recent contest between a
fragment of these tribes and the United States, although defeated
and literally cut to pieces by an overwhelming force, it is very
questionable whether their reputation as braves would suffer by a
comparison with that of their victors. It is believed that a careful
review of their history, from the period when they tirst established
themselves on the waters of the Mississippi down to the present
time, will lead the inquirer to the conclusion that the Sacs and
Foxes were truly a courageous people, shrewd, politic, and enter-
prising, with no more ferocity and treachery of character than is
common among the tribes by whom they were surrounded," These
tribes at the time of the Black Hawk War were divided into twenty
families, twelve of which were Sacs and eight Foxes. The follow-
ing were other prominent tribes occupying Illinois: the Kickapoos,
Shawnees, Mascoulius, Piaukishaws, Pottawatomies, Chippewas,
and Ottawas.
MANNERS AND CUSTOMS.
The art of hunting not only supplied the Indian with food, but,
like that of war, was a means of gratifying his love of distinction.
The male children, as soon as they acquired sufficient age and
strens:th, were furnished with a bow and arrow and tauo-ht to shoot
birds and other small game. Success in killing large quadrupeds
required years of careful study and practice, and the art was as
sedulously inculcated in the minds of the rising generation as are
the elements of reading, writing and arithmetic in the common
schools of civilized communities. The mazes of the forest and the
dense, tall grass of the prairies were the best fields for the exercise
of the hunter's skill. No feet could be impressed in the jnelding
soil but that the tracks were the objects of the most searching
scrutiny, and revealed at a glance the animal that made them, the
direction it was pursuing, and the time that had elapsed since it
had passed. In a forest country he selected the valleys, because
they were most frequently the resort of game. The most easily
taken, perhaps, of all the aiiimals of the chase was the deer. It is
endowed with a curiosity which prompts it to stop in its flight and
look back at the approaching hunter, who always avails himself of
this opportunity to let fly the fatal arrow.
Their general councils were composed of the chiefs and old men.
When in council, they usually sat in concentric circles around the
28 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
speaker, and each individual, notwithstanding the fiery passions
that rankled within, preserved an exterior as immovable as if cast
in bronze. Before commencing business a person appeared with
the sacred pipe, and another with fire to kindle it. After being
lighted, it was first presented to heaven, secondly to the earth,
thirdly to the presiding spirit, and lastly the several councilors,
each of whom took a whiff. Tnese formalities were observed with
as close exactness as state etiquette in civilized courts.
The dwellings of the Indians were of the simplest and rudest
character. On some pleasant spot by the bank of a river, or near
an ever-running spring, they raised their groups of wigwams, con-
structed of the bark of trees, and easily taken down and removed
to another spot. The dwelling-places of the chiefs were sometimes
more spacious, and constructed with greater care, but of the same
materials. Skins taken in the chase served them for repose.
Though principally dependent upon hunting and fishing, the
uncertain supply from those sources led them to cultivate small
patches of corn. Every family did everything necessary within
itself, commerce, or an interchangeof articles, being almost unknown
to them. In cases of dispute and dissension, each Indian relied
upon himself i')v retaliation. Blood for blood was the rule, and
the relatives of the slain man were bound to obtain bloody revenge
for his death. This principle gave rise, as a matter of course, to
innumerable and bitter feuds, and wars of extermination where such
were possible. War, indeed, rather than peace, was the InJian's
glory and delight, — war, not conducted as civilization, but war
where individual skill, endurance, gallantry and cruelty were prime
requisites. For such a purpose as revenge the Indian would make
great sacrifices, and display a patience and perseverance truly heroic;
but when the excitement was over, he sank back into a listless, un-
occupied, well-nigh useless savage. During the intervals of his
more exciting pursuits, the Indian employed his time in decorating
his .person with all tlie refinement of paint and feathers, and in the
manufacture of his arms and of canoes. These were constructed of
bark, and so light that they could easilj' be carried on the shoulder
from stream to stream. His amusements were the war-dance, ath-
letic games, the narration of his exploits, and listening to the ora-
tory of the chiefs; but during long periods of such existence he
remained in a state of torpor, gazing listlessly upon the trees of
the forests and the clouds that sailed above them; and this vacancy
HISTOEY OF ILLINOIS. 29
imprinted an habitual gravity, and even melancholy, upon his gen-
eral deportment.
The main labor and drudgery of Indian communities fell upon
the women. The planting, tending and gathering of the crops,
making mats and baskets, carrying burdens,— in fact, all things of
the kind were performed by them, thus making their condition but
little better than that of slaves. Marriage was merely a matter of
bargain and sale, the husband giving presents to the father of the
bride. In general they had but few children. They were sub-
jected to many and severe attacks of sickness, and at times famine
and pestilence swept away whole tribes.
SINGLE-HANDED COMBAT WITH INDIANS.
The most desperate single-handed combat with Indians ever
fought on the soil of Illinois was that of Tom Iliggins, August 21,
1814. Higgins was 25 years old, of a muscular and compact
build, not tall, but strong and active. In danger he possessed a
quick and discerning judgment, and was without fear. He was a
member of Journey's rangers, consisting of eleven men, stationed
at Hill's Fort, eight miles southwest of the present Greenville, Put-
nam county. Discovering Indian signs near the fort, the company,
early the following morning, started on the trail. They had not
gone far before they were in an ambuscade of a larger party. At
the first fire their commander. Journey, and three men fell, and
six reti'eated to the fort; but Higgins stopped to "have another
pull at the red-skins," and, taking deliberate aim at a straggling
savage, shot him do^vn. Higgins' horse had been wounded at the
first fire, as he supposed, mortally. Coming to, he was about to
effect his escape, when the familiar voice of Burgess hailed him
from the long grass, "Tom, don't leave me." Higgins told him to
come along, but Burgess replied that his leg was smashed. Hig-
gins attempted to raise him on his horse, but the animal took fright
and ran away. Higgins then directed Burgess to limp off" as well
as he could; and by crawling through the grass he reached the fort
while the former loaded his gun and remained behind io protect
him against the pursuing enemy. When Burgess was well out of
the way, Higgins took another route, which led by a small thicket,
to throw any wandering enemy off the trail. Here he was con-
fronted by three savages approaching. He ran to a little ravine
near for shelter, but in the efibrt discovered for the first time tha,t.
30 HISTOEY OF ILLINOIS.
he was badly wounded in the ]eg. He was closely pressed by the
largest, a powerful Indian, who lodged a ball in his thigh. He fell,
but instantly rose again, only, however, to draw the fire of the other
two, and again fell wounded. The Indians now advanced upon him
with their tomahawks and scalping knives; but as he presented his
gun first at one, then at another, from his place in the ravine, each
wavered in his purpose. Neither party had time to load, and the
large Indian, supposing finally that Iliggins' gun was empty, rushed
forward with uplifted tomahawk and a yell; but as he came near
enough, was shot down. At this the others raised the war-whoop,
and rushed upon the wounded Higgins, and now a hand-to-hand
conflict ensued. Thev darted at him with their knives time and
again, inflicting many ghastly flesh-wounds, which bled profusely.
One of the assailants threw his tomahawk at him with such pre-
cision as to sever his ear and lay bare his skull, knocking him down.
They now rushed in on him, but he kicked them ofi', and grasping
one of their spears thrust at him, was raised up by it. He quickly
seized his gun, and by a powerful blow crushed in the skull of one,
but broke his rifle. His remaining antagonist still kept up the con-
test, making thrusts with his knife at the bleeding and exhausted
Higgins, which he parried with his broken gun as well as he could.
Most of this desperate engagement was in plain view of the fort;
but the rangers, having been in one ambuscade, saw in this fight
only a ruse to draw out the balance of the garrison. But a Mrs.
Pursely, residing at the fort, no longer able to see so brave a man
contend for his life unaided, seized a gun, mounted a horse, and
started to his rescue. At this the men took courage and hastened
along. The Indian, seeing aid comii.g, fled. Higgins, being near-
ly hacked to pieces, fainted from loss of blood. He was carried to
the fort. There being no surgeon, his comrades cut two balls from
his flesh; others remained in. For days his life was despaired of;
but by tender nursing he ultimately regained his health, although
badly crippled. He resided in Fayette county for many years after,
and died in 1829.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 31
EARLY DISCOVERIES
NICHOLAS PERKOT.
The first white nuiii who ever set foot on the soil ernhraced within
the boundary of tlie present populous State of Illinois was Nicli-
olas Perrot, a Frenchman. He was sent to Chicago in the year 1671
by M. Talon, Intendant of Canada, for the purpose of inviting the
Western Indians to a great peace convention to be held at Green
Bay. This convention had for its chief object the promulgation of
a plan for the discovery of the Mississippi river. This great river
had been discovered by De Soto, the Spanish explorer, nearly one
hundred and fifty years previously, but his nation left the country
a wilderness, without further exploration or settlement within its
borders, in which condition it remained until the river was dis-
covered by Joliet and Marquette in 1673. It was deemed a wise
policy to secure, as far as possible, the friendship and co-operation
of the Indians, far and near, before venturing upon an enterprise
which their hostility might render disastrous. Thus the great con-
vention was called.
JOLIET AND MARQUETTE.
Although Perrot was the first European to visit Illinois, he was
not the first to make any important discoveries. Tliis was left for
Joliet and Marquette, which they accomplished two years thereafter.
The former, Louis Joliet, was"born at Quebec in 161:5. He was
educated for the clerical profession, but he abandoned it to
engage in the fur trade. His companion. Father Jacques Mai'-
quette, was a native of France, born in 1637. He was a Jesuit
priest by education, and a man of simple faith and great zeal and
devotion in extending the Roman Catholic religion among the In-
dians. He was sent to America in 1666 as a missionary. To con-
vert the Indians he penetrated the wilderness a thousand miles
in advance of civilization, and bv his kind attention in their afflic-
tions he won their affections and made them his lasting friends.
There were others, however, who visited Illinois even prior to the
famous exploration of Joliet and Marquette. In 1672 the Jesuit
32 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
missionaries, Fathers Claude Allouez and Claude Dablon, bore the
standard of the Cross from their mission at Green Bay through
western Wisconsin and northern Illinois.
According to the pre-arranged plan referred to above, at the Jes-
uit mission on the Strait of Mackinaw, Joliet joined Marquette,
and with five other Frenchmen and a simple outfit the daring ex-
plorers on the ITtli of Maj, 1673, set out on their perilous vojao-e
to discover the MississijDpi. Coasting along the northern shore of
Lake Michigan, they entered Green Bay, and passed thence up Fox
river and Lake Winnebago to a village of the Muscatines and
Miamis, where great interest was taken in the expedition by the
natives. With guides they proceeded down the river. Arriving
at the portage, they soon carried their light canoes and scanty bag-
gage to the Wisconsin, about three miles distant. Their guides
now refused to accompany them farther, and endeavored, by re-
citing the dangers incident to the voyage, to induce them to return.
They stated that huge demons dwelt in the great river, whose voices
could be heard a long distance, and who engulfed in the raging
waters all who came within their reach. They also represented that
if any of them should escape the dangers of the river, fierce tribes of
Indians dwelt upon its banks ready to complete the work of de-
struction. They proceeded on their journey, however, and on the
17th of June pushed their frail barks on the bosom of the stately
Mississippi, dawn which they smoothly glided for nearly a hundred
miles. Here Joliet and Marquette, leaving their canoes in charge
of their men, went on the western shore, where they discovered an
Indian village, and were kindly treated. They journeyed on down
the unknown river, passing the mouth of the Illinois, then run-
ning into the current of the muddy Missouri, and afterwaid the
waters of the Ohio joined with them on their journey southward.
Near the mouth of the Arkansas they discovered Indians who
showed signs of hostility; but when Marquette's mission of peace
was made known to them, they were kindly received. After pro-
ceeding up the Arkansas a short distance, at the advice of the
natives tlley turned their faces northward to retrace their steps. Af-
ter several weeks of hard toil they reached the Illinois, up which
stream they proceeded to Lake Michigan. Following the western
shore of the lake, they entered Green Bay the latter part of Sep-
tember, having traveled a distance of 2,500 miles.
HI8T0KY OF ILLINOIS. 33
On his way np the Illinois, Marquette visited the Kaskaskias,
near what is now Utica, in LaSalle county. The following vear
he returned and established anion^ them the mission of the Im-
maculate Virgin Mary. This was the last act of his life. He died
in Michigan, May 18, 1675.
lasalle's explorations.
The first French occupation of Illinois was effected by LaSalle,
in 1680. Having constructed a veesel, the " Griffin," above the
falls of Niagara, he sailed to Green Bay, and passed thence in
canoe to the mouth of the St. Joseph river, by which and the Kan-
kakee he reached the Illinois in January, 1680; and on the 3d he
entered the expansion of the river now called Peoria lake. Here,
at the lower end of the lake, on its eastern bank, now in Tazewell
' county, he erected Fort Crevecoeur. The place where this ancient
fort stood may still be seen just below the outlet of Peoria lake. It
had, however, but a temporary existence. From this point LaSalle
determined, at that time, to descend the Mississippi to its mouth.
This he did not do, however, until two years later. Returning to
Fort Frontenac for the purpose of getting material with which to
rig his vessel, he left the fort at Peoria in charge of his lieutenant,
Henri Tonti, an Italian, who had lost one of his hands by the
explosion of a grenade in the Sicilian wars. Tonti had with him
fifteen men, most of whom disliked LaSalle, and were ripe for a
revolt the first opportunity. Two men who had, previous to LaSalle's
departure, been sent to look for the " Giiffin " now returned and
reported that the vessel was lost and that Fort Frontenac was in
the hands of LaSalle's creditors. This disheartening intelligence
had the effect to enkindle a spirit of mutiny among the garrison.
Tonti had no sooner left the fort, with a few men, to fortify what
was afterward known as Starved Pock, than the garrison at the
fort refused longer to submit to authority. They destroyed the
fort, seized the ammunition, provisions, and other portables of value,
and fied. Only two of their number remained true. These hast-
ened to apprise Tonti of what had occurred. He thereupon sent
four of the men with him to inform LaSalle. Thus was Tonti in
the midst of treacherous savages, with only five men, two of whom
were the friars Pibourde and Membre. With these he immediately
returned to the fort, collected what tools had not been destroyed,
and conveyed theui to the great town of the Illinois Indians.
34 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
By this voluntary display of confidence he hoped to remove the
jealousy created in the minds of the Illinois by the enemies of La-
Salle. Here he awaited, unmolested, the return of LaSalle.
GREAT BATTLE OF THE ILLINOIS.
!N^either Tonti nor his wild associates suspected that hordes of Iro-
quois were gathering preparatory to rushing down upon their
country and reducing it to an uninhabited waste. Already these
hell-hounds of the wilderness had destroyed the Hurons, Eries, and
other natives on the lakes, and wei-e now directing their attention
to the Illinois for new victims. Five hundred Iroquois warriors
Bet out for the home of the Illinois. All was fancied security and
idle repose in the great town 'of this tribe, as the enemy stealthily
approached. Suddenly as a clap of thunder from a cloudless sky
the listless inhabitants were awakened from their lethar^v. A
Shawnee Indian, on his return home after a visit to the Illinois,
first discovered the invaders. To save his friends from the im-
pending danger, he hurriedly returned and apprised th^m of the
coming enemy. This intelligence spread with lightning rapidity
over the town, and each wigwam disofors^ed its boisterous and as-
tonnded inmates. Women snatched their children, and in a delirium
of f.ight wandered aimlessly about, rending the air with their
screams. The men, more self-possessed, seized their arms ready
for the coming fray. Tonti, long an object of suspicion, was soon
surrounded by an angry crowd of warriors, who accused him of be-
ing an emissary of the enemy. His inability to defend himself
properly, in consequence of not fully understanding their language
left them still inclined to believe him guilty, and they seized his
effects from the fort and threw them into the river. The women
and children were sent down the river for safety, and the wai riors,
not exceeding four hundred, as most of their young men were ofi"
huntino:, returned to the villaofe. Alon^ the shores of the river
they kindled huge bonfires, and spent the entire night in greasing
their bodies, painting their faces, and performing the war-dance,
to prepare for the approaching enemy. At early dawn the scouts
who had been sent out returned, closely followed by the Iroquois.
The scouts had seen a chief arrayed in French costume, and re-
ported their suspicions that LaSalle was in the camp of the enemy,
and Tonti again became an object of jealousy. A concourse of
wildly gesticulating savages immediately gathered about him, de-
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 35
manding his life, and nothing saved him from, their uplifted weap-
ons hut a promise that he and his men would go with them to meet
the enemy. With their suspicions partly lulled, they hurriedly
crossed the river and met the foe, when both commenced firing.
Toiiti, seeino- that the Illinois were outnumbered and likely to
be defeated, determined, at the imminent risk of liis life, to stay
the fio-ht by an attempt at mediation. Presuming on the treaty of
peace then existing between the French and Iroquois, he exchanged
his gun for a belt of wampum and advanced to meet the savage
multitude, attended by three companions, who, being unnecessarily
exposed to danger, were dismissed, and he proceeded alone. A
short walk brought him in the midst of a pack of yelping devils,
writhing and distorted with fiendish rage, and impatient to shed
his blood. As the result of his swarthy Italian complexion and
half-savage costume, he was at first taken for an Indian, and before
the mistake was discovered a young warrior approached and stabbed
at his heart. Fortunately the blade was turned aside by coming
in contact with a rib, yet a large fiesh wound was inflicted, which
bled profusely. At this juncture a chief discovered his true char-
acter, and he was led to the rear and efibrts were made to staunch
his wound. When sufficiently recovered, he declared the Illinois
were under the protection of the French, and demanded, in consid-
eration of the treaty between the latter and the Iroquois, that they
should be suffered to remain without further molestation. Durino-
this conference a young warrior snatched Tonti's hat, and, fleeing
with it to the front, held it aloft on the end of his gun in view of
the Illinois. The latter, judging that Tonti had been killed,
renewed the figrht with great vio^or. Simultaneouslv, intellio^ence
was brought to the Iroquois that Frenchmen were assisting their
enemies in the fight, when the contest over Tonti was renewed
with redoubled fury. Some declared that he should be immediately
put to death, while others, friendly to LaSalle, with equal earnest-
ness demanded that he should be set at liberty. During their
clamorous debate, his hair was several times lifted by a Imge sav-
age who stood at his back with a scalping knife ready for execution.
Tonti at length turned the current of the angry controversy in hie
favor, by stating that the Illinois were 1,200 strong, and that there
were 60 Frenchmen at the village ready to assist them. This state-
ment obtained at least a partial credence, and his tornientors now
36 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
determined to use him as an instrument to delude the Illinois with a
pretended truce. The old warriors, therefore, advanced to the front
and ordered the firing to cease, while Tonti, dizzy from the loss of
blood, was furnished with an emblem of peace and sent staggering
across the plain to rejoin the Illinois. The two friars who had just
returned from a distant hut, whither they had repaired for prayer
and meditation, were the first to meet him and bless God for what
they regarded as a miraculous deliverance. With the assurance
brought by Tonti, the Illinois re-crossed the river to their lodges,
followed by the enemy as far as the opposite bank. Not long after,
large numbers of the latter, under the pretext of hunting, also crossed
the river and hung in threatening groups about the town. These
hostile indications, and the well-known disregard which the Iroquois
had always evinced for their pledges, soon convinced the Illinois
that their only safety was in flight. With this conviction they set
fire to their village, and while the vast volume of flames and smoke
diverted the attention of the enemy, they quietly dropped down the
river to join their women and children. As soon as the flames would
permit, the Iroquois entrenched themselves on the site of the vil-
lage. Tonti and his men were ordered by the suspicious savages
to leave their hut and take up their abode in the fort.
At first the Iroquois were much elated at the discomfiture of the
Illinois, but when two days afterward they discovered them recon-
noitering their intrenchments, their courage greatly subsided.
With fear they recalled the exaggerations of Tonti respecting their
numbers, and concluded to send him with a hostage to make over-
tures of peace. He and his hostage were received with delight by
the Illinois, who readily assented to the proposal which he brought,
and in turn sent back with him a hostage to the Iroquois. On his
return to the fort his life was again placed in jeopardy, and the
treaty was with great difficulty ratified. The young and inexpe-
rienced Illinois hostage betrayed to his crafty interviewers the nu-
merical weakness of his tribe, and the savages immediately rushed
upon Tonti, and charged him with having deprived them of the spoils
and honors of victory. It now required all the tact of which he was
master to escape. After much difficulty however, the treaty was con-
cluded, but the savages, to show their contempt for it, immediately
commenced constructing canoes in which to descend the river and
attack the Illinois.
AN IROQUOIS CHIEF.
LitiiiAifir
OF THE
UMVIRSITY OF ILLINOIS.
aiSTOKY OI* ILLINOIS. 39
FRENCHMEN DRIVEN AWAY.
Tonti managed to apprise the latter of their designs, and he and
Membre were soon after summoned to attend a council of the Iro-
quois, who still labored under a wholesome fear of Count Frontenac,
and disliking to attack the Illinois in the presence of the French,
thej thought to try to induce them to leave the country. At the
assembling of the council, six packages of beaver skins were intro-
duced, and the savage orator, presenting them separately to Tonti,
explained the nature of each. "The first two," said he, "were to de-
clare that the children of Count Frontenac, that is, the Illinois,
should not be es-ten; the next was a plaster to heal the wounds of
Tonti; the next was oil wherewith to anoint him and Membre,
that they might not be fatigued in traveling; the next proclaimed
that the sun was bright; and the sixth and last required them to
decamp and go home."
At the mention of going home, Tonti demanded of them when
they intended to set the example by leaving the Illinois in the
peaceable possession of their country, which they had so unjustly in-
vaded. The council grew boisterous and angry at the idea that
they should be demanded to do what they required of the French,
and some of its members, forgetting their previous pledge, declared
that they would "eat Illinois flesh before they departed." Tonti, in
imitation of the Indians' manner of expressing scorn, indignantly
kicked away the presents, of fur, saying, since they intended to de-
vour the children of Frontenac with cannibal ferocity, he would not
accept their gifts. This stern rebuke resulted in the expulsion of
Tonti and his companion froai the council, and the next day the
chiefs ordered them to leave the country.
Tonti had now, at the great peril of his life, tried every expedient
to prevent the slaughter of the Illinois. There was little to bo ac-
complished by longer remaining in the country, and as longer delay
might imperil the lives of his own men, he determined to depart, not
knowing where or when he would be able to rejoin LaSalle. With
this object in view, the party, consisting of six persons, embarked in
canoes, which soon proved leaky, and they were compelled to land
for the purpose of making repairs. While thus employed, Father Ri-
bourde, attracted by the beauty of the surrounding landscape, wan-
dered f >rth among the groves for meditation and prayer. Not return-
ing in due time, Tonti became alarmed, and started with a compan-
40 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
ion to ascertain the cause of the long delay. They soon discovered
tracks of Indians, by whom it was supposed he had been seized, and
guns were fired to direct his return, in case he was alive. Seeing
nothing of him during the day, at night they built fires along the
bank of the river and retired to the opposite side, to see who might
approach them. Near midnight a number of Indians were seen
flitting about the light, by whom, no doubt, had been made the tracks
seen tlie previous day. It was afterward learned that they were a
band of Kickapoos, who had for several daj'S been hovering about
the camp of the Iroquois in quest of scalps. They had fell in
with the inoffensive old friar and scalped him. Thus, in the 65th
year of his age, the only heir to a wealthy Burgundian house per-
ished under the war-club of the savages for whose salvation he had
renounced ease and affluence.
INHUMAN BUTCHEKY.
During this tragedy a far more rev^olting one was being enacted
in the great town of Illinois. The Iroquois were tearing open the
graves of the dead, and wreaking their vengeance upon the bodies
made hideous by putrefaction. At this desecration, it is said, they
even ate portions of the dead bodies, while subjecting them to every
indignity that brutal hate could inflict. Still unsated by their hell-
ish brutalities, and now unrestrained by the presence of the French,
they started in pursuit of the retreating Illinois. Day after day
they and the opposing forces moved in compact array down the
river, neither being able to gain any advantage over the other. At
length the Iroquois obtained by falsehood that which number and
prowess denied them. They gave out that their object was to pos-
sess the country, not by destroying, but by driving out its present
inhabitants. Deceived by this false statement, the Illinois separa-
ted, some descending the Mississippi and others crossing to the
western shore. Tlie Taraaroas, more credulous than the rest, re-
mained near the mouth of the Illinois, and were suddenlv attacked
by an overwhelming force of the enemy. The men fled in dismay,
and the women and children, to the number of 700, fell into the
hands of the ferocious enemy. Then followed the tortures, butch-
eries and burnings which only the infuriated and imbruted Iroquois
could perpetrate. LaSalle on his return discovered the half-charred
bodies of women and children still bound to the stakes where they
had suffered all the torments hellish hate could devise. In addition
HISTORY OF ILLIXOIS. 41
to those who had been burnt, the mangled bodies of women and
children thickly covered the ground, many of which bore marks of
brutality too horrid for record.
After the ravenous horde had sufficiently glutted their greed for
carnage, they retired from the country. The Illinois returned and
rebuilt their town.
TONTI SAFE AT GREEN BAT.
After the death of Ribourde, Tonti and his men again resumed
their journey. Soon again their craft became disabled, when they
abandoned it and started on foot for Lake Michigan, Their
supply of provisions soon became exhausted, and they were
compelled to subsist in a great measure on roots and herbs.
One of their companions wandered off in search of game, and lost
his way, and several days elapsed before he rejoined them. In his
absence he was without flints and bullets, yet contrived to shoot
some^turkeys by using slugs cut from a pewter porringer and afire-
brand to discharge his gun, Tonti fell sick of a fever and greatly
retarded the progress of the march. Nearing Green Bay, the cold
increased and the means of subsistence decreased and the party would
have perished had they not found a few ears of corn and some froz-
en squashes in the fields of a deserted village, Near the close of
j^ovember they had reached the Pottawatomies, who warmly greet-
ed them. Their chief was an ardent admirer of the French, and
was accustomed to say: " There were but three great captains in the
world, — himself, Tonti and LaSalle." For the above account of
Tonti's encounter with tlie Iroquois, we are indebted to Davidson
and Stuve's History of Illinois,
lasalle's return.
LaSalle returned to Peoria only to meet the hideous picture of
devastation, Tonti had escaped, but LaSalle knew not whither. Pass-
ing down the lake in search of him and his men, LaSalle discov-
ered that the fort had been destroyed; but the vessel which he had
partly constructed was still on the stocks, and but slightly injured.
After further fruitless search he fastened to a tree a painting repre-
senting himself and party sitting in a cxnoe and bearing a pipe of
peace, and to the painting attached a letter addressed to Tonti.
LaSalle was born in France in 1643, of wealthy parentage, and edu-
cated in a college of the Jesuits, from which he separated and came
to Canada," a poor man, in 1G66. He was a man of daring genius,
42 BttSTORT OF ILLINOIS.
and outstripped all his competitors in exploits of travel and com-
merce with the Indians. He was granted a large tract of land at
LaChine, where he established himself in the fur trade. In 1669
he visited the headquarters of the great Iroquois confederacy, at
Onondaga, New York, and, obtaining guides, explored the Ohio
river to the falls at Louisville. For many years previous, it must
be remembered, missionaries and traders were obliged to make their
way to the Northwest through Canada on account of the fierce
hostility of the Iroquois along the lower lakes and Niagara river,
which entirely closed this latter route to the upper lakes. Thej'
carried on their commerce chiefly by canoes, paddling them through
Ottawa river to Lake Ni pissing, carrying them across the portage
to French river, and descending that to Lake Huron. This being
the route by which they reached the Northwest, we have an explana-
tion of the fact that all the earliest Jesuit missions were established
in the neighborhood of tlie upper lakes. LaSalle conceived the
grand idea of opening the route by Niagara river and the Tower
lakes to Canada commerce by sail vessels, connecting it with the
navigation of the Mississippi, and thus opening a magnificent water
communication from the Gulf of St. Lawrence to the Gulf of Mex-
ico. This truly grand and comprehensive purpose seems to have
animated him in his wonderful achievements, and the matchless
difficulties and hardships he surmounted. As the first step in the
accomplishment of this object he established himself on Lake
Ontario, and built and garrisoned Fort Frontenac, the site of the
present city of Kingston, Canada. Here he obtained a grant of
land from the French crown, and a body of troops, bv which he
repulsed the Iroquois and opened passage to Niagara Falls. Hav-
ing by this masterly stroke made it safe to attempt a hitherto
untried expedition, his next step, as we have seen, was to build a
ship with which to sail the lakes. He was successful in this under-
taking, though his ultimate purpose was defeated by a strange com-
bination of untoward circumstances. The Jesuits evidently hated
LaSalle and plotted against him, because he had abandoned them
and united with a rival order. The fur traders were also jealous of
his success in opening new channels of commerce. While they were
plodding with their bark canoes through the Ottawa, he was con-
structino^ sailinof vessels to command the trade of the lakes and the
Mississippi. These great plans excited the jealousy and envy of
aiSTOEY OF ILLINOIS. 43
small traders, introduced treason and revolt into the ranks of his
men, and linally led to the foul assassination by whicli his great
achievements were permanently ended.
lasalle's assassination.
Again visiting the Illinois in the year 1682, LaSalle de-
scended the Mississippi to the Gulf of Mexico. He erected a
standard upon veliich he inscribed the arms of France, and took
formal possession of the whole valley of this mighty river in the
name of Louis XIV., then reigning, and in honor of whom he named
the country Louisiana. LaSalle then returned to France, was
appointed Governor, and returned with a fleet of immigrants for the
purpose of planting a colony in Illinois. They arrived in due time
in the Gulf of Mexico, but failing to find the mouth of the Missis-
sippi, up which they intended to sail, his supply ship, with the
immigrants, was driven ashore and wrecked on Matagorda Bay.
With the fragments of the vessel he constructed rude huts and
stockades on the shore for the protection of his followers, calling
the post Fort St. Louis. He then made a trip into New Mexico
in search of silver mines, but, meeting with disappointment,
returned to find his colony reduced to forty souls. He then resolved
to travel on foot to Illinois. With some twenty of his men they
filed out of their fort on the 12th of January, 1687, and after the part-
ing,— which was one of sighs, of tears, and of embraces, all seeming
intuitively to know that they should see each otlier no more, — they
started on their disastrous journey. Two of the party, Du Ilaut
and Leotot, wlien on a hunting expedition in company with a
nephew cf LaSalle, assassinated liim while asleep. The long
absence of his nephew caused LaSalle to go in search of him. On
approaching the murderers of his nephew, they fired upon him, kill-
ing him instantly. They then despoiled the body of its clothing,
and icft it to be devoured by the wild beasts of the forest. Thus,
at the age of 43, perished one whose exploits have so greatly
enriched the history of the New World. To estimate aright the
marvels of his patient fortitude, one must follow on his track
through the vast scene of his interminable journeyings, those thou-
sands of weary miles of forest, marsh and river, where, again and
again, in the bitterness of baffled striving, the untiring pilgrim
pushed onward toward the goal he never was to attain. America
owes him an enduring memory; for in this masculine figure, cast
44 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
in iron, she sees the heroic pioneer who guided her to the possession
of her richest lieritage.
Tonti, who had been stationed at the fort on the Illinois, learning
of LaSalle's unsuccessful voyage, immediately started down the
Mississippi to his relief. Reaching the Gulf, lie found no traces of
the colony. He then returned, leaving some of his men at the
mouth of the Arkansas. These were discovered by the remnant of
LaSalle's followers, who guided them to the fort on the Illinois,
where they reported that LaSalle was in Mexico. The little band
left at Fort St. Louis were finally destroyed by the Indians, and the
murderers of LaSalle were shot. Thus ends the sad chapter of
Kobert Cavalier de LaSalle's exploration.
FEEXCII OCCLTPATIOK
FIRST SETTLEMENTS.
The first mission in Illinois, as we have already seen, was com-
menced by Marquette in April, 1675. lie called the religious
society which he established the " Mission of the Immaculate Con-
ception," and the town Kaskaskia. The first military occupation of
the country was at Fort Crevecoeur, erected in 1680; but there is no
evidence that a settlement was commenced there, or at Peoria, on
the lake above, at that early date. The first settlement of which there
is any authentic account was commenced with the building of Fort
St, Louis on the Illinois river in 1682; but this was soon abandoned.
The oldest permanent settlement, not only in Illinois, but in the val-
ley of the Mississippi, is at Kaskaskia, situated six miles above the
mouth of the Kaskaskia river. This was settled in 1690 by the
removal of the mission from old Kaskaskia, or Ft. St. Louis, on the
Illinois river. Cahokia was settled about the same time. The
reason for the removal of the old Kaskaskia settlement and mission,
was probably because the dangerous and difticult route by Lake
Michigan and the Chicago portage had been almost abandoned, and
travelers and traders traveled down and up the Mississippi by the
Fox and Wisconsin rivers. It was removed to the vicinity of the
Mississippi in order to be in the line of travel from Canada to
Louirfiana, that is, the lower part of it, for it was all Louisiana then
south of the lakes. Illinois came into possession of the French in
1682, and was a dependency of Canada and a part of Louisiana.
During the period of French rule in Louisiana, the population
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 45
probably never exceeded ten thousand. To the year 1T30 the fol-
lowing five distinct settlements were made in the territory of
Illinois, numbering, in population, 140 French families, about 600
"converted " Indians, and many traders; Cahokia, near the mouth
of Cahokia creek and about five miles below the present city of
St. Louis; St. Philip, about forty-five miles below Cahokia; Fort
Chartres, twelve miles above Kaskaskia; Kaskaskia, situated on the
Kaskaskia river six miles above its confluence with the Mississippi,
and Prairie du Rocher, near Fort Chartres. Fort Chartres was
built under the direction of the Mississippi Company in 1718, and
was for a time the headquarters of the military commandants of
the district of Illinois, and the most impregnable fortress in JNorth
America. It was also the center of wealth and fashion in the West.
For about eighty years the French retained peaceable possession
of Illinois. Their amiable disposition and tact of ingratiating them-
selves with the Indians enabled them to escape almost entirely the
broils which weakened and destroyed other colonies. Whether
exploring remote rivers or traversing hunting grounds in pursuit
of game, in the social circle or as participants in the religious exer-
cises of the church, the red men became their associates and were
treated with the kindness and consideration of brothers. For more
than a hundred years peace between the white man and the red was
unbroken, and when at last this reign of harmony terminated it
was not caused by the conciliatory Frenchman, but by the blunt
and sturdy Anglo-Saxon. During this century, or until the coun-
try was occupied by the English, no regular court was ever held.
When, in 1765, the country passed into the hands of the English,
many of the French, rather than submit to a change in their insti-
tutions, preferred to leave their homes and seek a new abode.
There are, however, at the present time a few remnants of the old
French stock in the State, who still retain to a great extent the
ancient habits and customs of their fathers.
THE MISSISSIPPI COMPANY.
During the earliest period of French occupation of this country,
M. Tonti, LaSalle's attendant, was commander-in-chief of all the
territory embraced between Canada and the Gulf of Mexico, and
extending east and west of the Mississippi as far as his ambition or
imagination pleased to allow. He spent twenty-one years in estab-
lishing forts and organizing the first settlements of Illinois, Sep-
46 HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS.
tember 14, 1712, the French government granted a monopoly of all
the trade and commerce of the country to M. Crozat, a wealthy
merchant of Paris, who established a trading company in Illinois,
and it was by this means that the early settlements became perma-
nent and others established. Crozat surrendered his charter in
1717, and the Company of the West, better known as the Missis-
sippi Company, was organized, to aid and assist the banking system
of John Law, the most famous speculator of modern times, and
perhaps at one time the wealthiest private individual the world
has ever known ; but his treasure was transitory. Under the
Company of the West a branch was organized called the Company
of St. Philip's, for the purpose of working the rich silver mines sup-
posed to be in Illinois, and Philip Renault was appointed as its
agent. In 1719 he sailed from France with two hundred miners,
laborers and mechanics. During 1719 the Company of the West
was by royal order united with the Royal Company of the Indies,
and had the influence and support of the crown, who was deluded
by the belief that immense wealth would flow into the empty treas-
ury of France. This gigantic scheme, one of the most extensive
and wonderful bubbles ever blown up to astonish, deceive and ruin
thousands of people, was set in operation by the fertile brain of
John Law. Law was born in Scotland in 1671, and so rapid had
been his career that at the age of twenty-three he was a " bankrupt,
an adulterer, a murderer and an exiled outlaw." But he possessed
great financial ability, and by his agreeable and attractive manners,
and his enthusiastic advocacy of his schemes, he succeeded in
inflaming the imagination of the mercurial Frenchmen, whose greed
for gain led them to adopt any plans for obtaining wealth.
Law arrived in Paris with two and a half millions of francs,
which he had gained at the gambling table, just at the right time.
Louis XIY, had just died and left as a legacy empty coffers and an
immense public debt. Every thing and everybody was taxed to
the last penny to pay even the interest. All the sources of in-
dustry were dried up; the very wind which wafted the barks of
commerce, seemed to have died away under the pressure of the
time; trade stood still; the merchant, the trader, the artificer, once
flourishing in affluence, were transformed into clamorous beggars.
The life-blood that animated the kinordom was stagnated in all
its arteries, and the danger of an awful crisis became such that
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 47
the nation was on the verge of bankruptcy. At this critical junc-
ture John Law arrived and proposed liis grand scheme of the
Mississippi Company; 200,000 shares of stock at 500 livres each were
at first issued. This sold readily and great profits were realized.
More stock was issued, speculation became rife, the fever seized
everybody, and the wildest speculating frenzy pervaded the whole
nation. Illinois was thought to contain vast and rich mines of
minerals. Kaskaskia, then scarcely more than the settlement of a
few savages, was spoken of as an emporium of the most extensive
traffic, and as rivaling some of the cities of Europe in refinement,
fashion and religious culture. Law was in the zenith of his glory, and
the people in the zenith of their infatuation. The high and the low,
the rich and the poor, were at once filled with visions of untold
wealth, and every age, set, rank and condition were buying and selling
stocks. Law issued stock ao-ain and again, and readilv sold until
2,235,000,000 livres were in circulation, equaling about $450,000,000.
While confidence lasted an impetus was given to trade never before
known. An illusory policy everywhere prevailed, and so dazzled
the eve that none could see in the horizon the dark cloud announc-
ing the approaching storm. Law at the time was the most influ-
ential man in Europe. His house was beset from morning till
night with eager applicants for stock. Dukes, marquises and
counts, with their wives and daughters, waited for hours in the
street below his door. Finding his residence too small, he changed
it for the Place Yendome, whither the crowd followed him, and the
spacious square had the appearance of a public market. The boule-
vards and public gardens were forsaken, and the Place Vendome
became the most fashionable place in Paris; and he was unable to
wait upon even one-tenth part of his applicants. The bubble burst
after a few years, scattering ruin and distress in every direction.
Law, a short time previous the most popular man in Europe, fled
to Brussels, and in 1729 died in Venice, in obscurity and poverty.
ENGLISH RULE.
As early as 1750 there could be perceived the first throes of the
revolution, which gave a new master and new institutions to Illi-
nois. France claimed the whole valley of the Mississippi, and Eng-
land the right to extend her possessions westward as far as she
might desire. Through colonial controversies the two mother
48 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
countries were precipitated into a bloody war within tlie !N"ortli-
westeru Territory, George Wasliingtou firing the first gun of the
military struggle which resulted in the overthrow of the French
not only in Illinois but in North America. The French evinced a
determination to retain control of the territory bordering the Ohio
and Mississippi from Canada to the Gulf, and so long as the En-
glish colonies were confined to the sea-coast there was little reason
for controversy. As the English, however, became acquainted
with this beautiful and fertile portion of our country, they not only
learned the value of the vast territory, but also resolved to set up a
counter claim to the soil. The French established numerous mili-
tary and trading posts from the frontiers of Canada to New Or-
leans, and in order to establish also their claims to jurisdiction over
the country they carved the lilies of France on the forest trees, or
sunk plates of metal in the ground. These measures did not,
however, deter the English from going on with their explorations;
and though neither party resorted to arms, yet the conflict was
. gathering, and it was only a question of time when the storm
should burst upon the frontier settlement. The French based
their claims upon discoveries, the English on grants of territory
extending from ocean to ocean, but neither part}^ paid the least
attention to the prior claims of the Indians. From this posi-
tion of affairs, it was evident that actual collision between the
contending parties would not much longer be deferred. The En-
glish Government, in anticipation of a war, urged the Governor
of Virginia to lose no time in building two forts, which were
equipped by arms from England. The French anticipated the
English and gathered a considerable force to defend their possessions.
The Governor determined to send a raessenojer to the nearest
French post and demand an explanation. This resolution of the
Governor brought into the history of our country for the first time
the man of all others whom America most loves to honor, namely,
George "Washington. He was chosen, although not yet twenty-one
years of age, as the one to perform this delicate and difiicult mission.
"With five companions he set out on Nov. 10, 1753, and after a per-
ilous journey returned Jan. 6, ITo-i. Tiie struggle commenced and
continued long, and was bloody and fierce; but en the lOtli of Octo-
ber, 1765, the ensign of France was replaced on the ramparts of
Fort Chartres by the flag of Great Britain. This fort was the
GEN. GEORGE ROGERS CLARK.
(.JOITARV
OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS,
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 51
depot of supplies and the place of rendezvous for the united forces
of the French. At this time the colonies of the Atlantic seaboard
were assembled in preliminary congress at New York, dreaming of
liberty and independence for the continent; and Washington, who
led the expedition against the French for the English king, in less
than ten years was commanding the forces opposed to the English
tyrant. Illinois, besides being constructively a part of Florida for
over one hundred years, during which time no Spaniard set foot
upon her soil or rested his eyes upon her beautiful plains, for nearly
ninety years had been in the actual occupation of the French, their
puny settlements slumbering quietly in colonial dependence on the
distant waters of the Kaskaskia, Illinois and Wabash.
GEN. CLAKk's exploits.
The J^orthwest Territory was now entirely under English rule,
and on the breaking out of the Revolutionary war the British held
every post of importance in the West. While the colonists of the
East were maintaining a fierce struggle with the armies of England,
their western frontiers were ravaged by merciless butcheries of In-
dian warfare. The jealousy of the savage was aroused to action by
the rapid extension of American settlement westward and the im-
proper influence exerted by a number of military posts garrisoned by
British troops. To prevent indiscriminate slaughters arising froin
these causes, Illinois became the theater of some of the most daring
exploits connected with American history. The hero of the achieve-
ments by which this beautiful land was snatched as a gem from
the British Crown, was George Rogers Clark, of Yirginia. lie had
closely watched the movements of the British throughout the
Northwest, and understood their whole plan; he also knew the
Indians were not unanimously in accord with the English, and
therefore was convinced that if the British could be defeated and
expelled from the Northwest, the natives might be easily awed into
neutrality. Having convinced himself that the enterprise against
the Illinois settlement might easily succeed, he repaired to the cap-
ital of Virginia, arriving Nov. 5, 1777. While he was on his way,
fortunately, Burgoyne was defeated (Oct. 17), and the spirits of the
colonists were thereby greatly encouraged. Patrick Henry was
Governor of Yirginia, and at once entered heartily into Clark's
plans. After satisfying the Yirginia leaders of the feasibility of
his project, he received two sets of instructions, — one, secret, the
52 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
other open. The latter authorized him to enlist seven companies
to go to Kentucky, and serve three months after their arrival m
the West. The secret order authorized him to arm these troops,
to procure his powder and lead of General Hand at Pittsburg, and
to proceed at once to subjugate the country.
HE TAKES KASKASKIA.
With these instructions Col. Clark repaired to Pittsburg, choos-
ing rather to raise his men west of the mountains, as he well knew
all were needed in the colonies in the conflict there. He sent Col.
W. B. Smith to Holstein and Captains Helm and Bowman to
other localities to enlist men; but none of them succeeded in rais-
ing the required number. Tlie settlers in these parts were afraid
to leave their own firesides exposed to a vigilant foe, and but few
could be induced to join the expedition. With these companies
and several private volunteers Clark commenced his descent of the
Ohio, which he navigated as far as the falls, where he took posses-
sion of and fortified Corn Island, a small island between the present
cities of Louisville, Ky., and Xew Albany, Ind. Here, after having
completed his arrangements and announced to the men their real
destination, he left a small garrison; and on the 24rth of June, dur-
ing a total eclipse of the sun, which to them augured no good, they
floated down the river. His plan was to go by water as far as Fort
Massac, and thence march direct to Kaskaskia. Here lie intended to
surprise the garrison, and after its capture go to Cahokia, then to
Yincennes, and lastly to Detroit. Should he fail, he intended to
march directly to the Mississippi river and cross it into the Spanish
country. Before his start he received good items of information:
one that an alliance had been formed between France and the United
States, and the other that the Indians throughout the Illinois
country and the inhabitants at the various frontier posts had been led
by the British to believe that the " Long Knives," or Virginians,
were the most fierce, bloodthirsty and cruel savages that ever scalped
a foe. With this impression on their minds, Clark saw that
proper management would cause them to submit at once from fear,
if surprised, and then from gratitude would become friendly, if
treated with unexpected lenity. The march to Kaskaskia was
made through a hot July sun, they arriving on the evening of the
4th of July, 1778. They captured the fort near the village and
soon after the village itself, by surprise, and without the loss of
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 53
a single man and without killing any of the enemy. After suffi-
ciently working on the fears of the natives, Clark told them they
were at perfect liberty to worship as they pleased, and to take
whichever side of the great conflict they would; also he would pro-
tect them against any barbarity from British or Indian foe. This
had the desired effect; and the inhabitants, so unexpectedly and bo
gratefully surprised by the unlooked-for turn of affairs, at once
swore allegiance to the American arms; and when Clark desired
to go to Cahokia on the 6th of July, they accompanied him, and
through their influence the inhabitants of the place surrendered
and gladly placed themselves under his protection.
In the person of M. Gibault, priest of Kaskaskia, Clark found a
powerful ally and generous friend. Clark saw that, to retain pos-
session of the Korthwest and ti-eat successfully with the Indians, he
must establish a government for the colonies he had taken. St. Yin-
cent, the post next in importance to Detroit, remained yet to be
taken before the Mississippi valley was conquered. M. Gibault
told him that he would alone, by persuasion, lead Yincennes to
throw off its connection with England. Clark gladly accepted this
offer, and July 14th, in company with a fellow-townsman, Gibault
started on his mission of peace. On the 1st of August he returned
with the cheerful intelligence that everything was peaceably ad-
justed at Yincennes in favor of the Americans. During the inter-
val. Col. Clark established his courts, placed garrisons at Kaskaskia
and Cahokia, successfully re-enlisted his men, and sent word to
have a fort (which proved the germ of Louisville) erected at the
falls of the Ohio.
While the American commander was thus negotiating with the
Indians, Hamilton, the British Governor of Detroit, heard of Clark's
invasion, and was greatly incensed because the country which he
had in charge should be wrested from him by a few ragged militia.
He therefore hurriedly collected a force, marched by way of the
Wabash, and appeared before the fort at Yincennes. The inhabi-
tants made an effort to defend the town, and when Hamilton's
forces arrived, Captain Helm and a man named Henry were the
only Americans in the fort. These men had been sent by Clark.
The latter charged a cannon and placed it in the open gateway, and
the Captain stood by it with alighted match and cried out, as Ham-
ilton came in hailing distance, "Halt!" The British officer, not
54 HISTOEY OF ILLINOIS.
knowing the strength of the garrison, stopped, and demanded the
surrender of tlie fort. Hehn exclaimed, " Ko man shall enter here
till I know the terms." Hamilton responded, " You shall have the
honors of war." The entire garrison consisted of one officer and one
private.
VINCENNES CAPTURED,
On taking Kaskaskia, Clark made a prisoner of Rocheblave,
commander of the place, and got possession of all his written
instructions for the conduct of the war. From these papers he
received important information respecting the plans of Col. Ham-
ilton, Governor at Detroit, who was intending to make a vigorous
and concerted attack upon the frontier. After arriving at Yin-
cennes, however, he gave np his intended campaign for the winter,
and trusting to his distance from danger and to the difficulty of
approaching him, sent off his Indian warriors to prevent troops from
coming down the Ohio, and to annoj the Americans in all ways. Thus
he sat quietly down to pass the winter with only about eighty soldiers,
but secure, as he thought, from molestation. But he evidently did
not realize the character of the men with whom he was contending.
Clark, although he could muster only one hundred and tliirt}' men,
determined to take advantage of Hamilton's weakness and security,
and attack him as the only means of saving himself; for unless he
captured Hamilton, Hamilton would capture him. Accordingly,
about the beginning of February, 1779, he dispatched a small galley
which he had fitted out, mounted with two four-pounders and four
swivels and manned with a company of soldiers, and carrying stores
for his men, with orders to force her way up the Wabash, to take
her station a few miles below Vincennes, and to allow no person to
pass her. He himself marched with his little band, and spent six-
teen days in traversing the country from Kaskaskia to Yincennes,
passing with incredible fatigue through woods and marshes. He
was five days in crossing the bottom lands of the Wabash; and for
five miles was frequently up to the breast in water. After over-
coming difficulties which had been thought insurmountable, he
appeared before the place and completely surprised it. The inhab-
itants readily submitted, but Hamilton at first defended himself in
the fort. Next day, however, he surrendered himself and his gar-
rison prisoners-of-war. By his activity in encouraging the hostili-
ties of the Indians and by the revolting enormities perpetrated by
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 55
those savages, Hamilton had rendered himself so obnoxious that he
was thrown in prison and put in irons. During his command of
the British frontier posts he offered prizes to the Indians for all the
scalps of the Americans thej^ would bring him, and earned in con-
sequence thereof the title, "llair-Bujer General," by which he was
ever afterward known.
The services of Clark proved of essential advantage to his coun-
trymen. They disconcerted the plans of Hamilton, and not only saved
the western frontier from depredations by the savages, but also
greatly cooled the ardor of the Indians for carrying on a contest in
which they were not likely to be the gainers. Had it not been for
this small army, a union of all the tri'oes from Maine to Georgia
against the colonies might have been effected, and the whole current
of our history changed.
ILLINOIS.
COUNTY OF ILLINOIS.
In October, 1778, after the successful campaign of Col. Clark, the
assembly of Virginia erected the conquered country, embracing all
the territory northwest of the Ohio river, into the County of Illi-
nois, which was doubtless the largest county in the world, exceeding
in its dimensions the whole of Great Britian and Ireland. To speak
more definitely, it contained the territory now embraced in the great
States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan. On the
12th of December, 1778, John Todd was appointed Lieutenant-
Commandant of this county by Patrick Henry, then Governor of
'Virginia, and accordingly, also, the first of Illinois County.
NORTHWESTERN TERRITORY.
Illinois continued to form a part of Virginia until March 1, 1784,
when that State ceded all the territory north of the Ohio to the
United States. Immediately the general Government proceeded to
establish a form of government for the settlers in the territories
thus ceded. This form continued until the passage of the ordi-
nance of 1787, for the government of the ISTorthwestern Terri-
tory. No man can study the secret history of this ordinance and
not feel that Providence was guiding with sleepless eye the des-
56 mSTORT OF ILLINOIS.
tinies of these unborn States. American legislation has never
achieved anything more admirable, as an internal government,
than this comprehensive ordinance. Its provisions concerning the
distribution of property, the principles of civil and religious liberty
which it laid at the foundation of the communities since established,
and the efficient and simple organization by which it created the
first machinery of civil society, are worthy of all the praise that has
ever been given them.
t ■
OKDINAXCE OF 1787.
This ordinance has a marvelous and interesting history. Con-
siderable controversy has been indulged in as to who is entitled to
the credit for framing it. This belongs, undoubtedly, to ^Nathan
Dane; and to Rufus King and Timothy Pickering belong the
credit for suggesting the proviso contained in it ag.dnst slavery,
and also for aids to religion and knowledge, and for assuring for-
ever the common use, without charge, of the great national high-
ways of the Mississippi, the St. Lawrence and their tributaries to
all the citizens of the United States. To Thomas Jefferson is also
due much credit, as some features of this ordinance were embraced
in his ordinance of ITS-i. But the part taken by each in the long,
laborious and eventful struggle which had so glorious a consum-
mation in the ordinance, consecrating forever, by one imprescript-
ible and unchangeable monument, the v^ery heart of our country to
Freedom, Knowledge, and Union, will forever honor the names of
those illustrious statesmen.
Mr. Jefferson had vainly tried to secure a system of government
for the Northwestern Territory. He M'as an emancipationist and
favored the exclusion of slavery from the territory, but the South
voted him down every time he proposed a measure of this nature.
In 1787, as late as Jul}'- 10, an organizing act without the anti-
slaverj' clause was pending. This concession to the South was
expected to carry it. Congress was in session in New York. On
July 5, Rev. Manasseh Cutler, of Massachusetts, came into New
York to lobby on the Northwestern Territory, Everything
seemed to fall 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 one of
those sudden and marvelous revolutions of public sentiment that
HISTOEY OF ILLINOIS. 57
once in five or ten centuries are seen to sweep over a country like
the breath of the Almighty.
Cutler was a graduate of Yale. He had studied and taken de-
grees in the three learned professions, medicine, law, and divinity.
He had published a scientific examination of the plants of New
Eno-land. As a scientist in America his name stood second only to
that of Franklin He was a courtly gentleman of the old style,
a man of commanding presence and of inviting face. The Southern
members said they had never seen such a gentleman in the North.
He came representing a Massachusetts company that desired to
purchase a tract of land, now included in Ohio, for the purpose of
planting a colony. It was a speculation. Government money was
worth eighteen cents on the dollar. This company had collected
enough to purchase 1,500,000 acres of land. Other speculators in
New York made Dr. Cutler tlieir agent, which enabled him to
represent a demand for 5,500,000 acres. As this would reduce the
national debt, ai:d Jefferson's policy was to provide for the public
credit, it presented a good opportunity to do something.
Massachusetts then owned the territory of Maine, 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 entire South ral-
lied around him. Massachusetts could not vote against him, be-
cause many of the constituents of her members were interested
personally in the Western speculation. Thus Cutler, making
friends in the South, and doubtless using all the arts of the lobby,
was enabled to command the situation. True to deeper convic-
tions, he dictated one of the most compact and finished documents
of wise statesmanship that has ever adorned any human law book.
He borrowed from Jeiferson the term "Articles of Compact," which,
preceding the federal constitution, rose into the most sacred char-
acter. He then followed very closely the constitution of Massa-
chusetts, adopted three years before. Its most prominent points
were :
1. The exclusion of slavery from the territory forever.
2. Provision for public schools, giving one township for a semi-
nary and every section numbered 16 in each township; that is, one
thirty-sixth of all the land for public schools.
3. A provision prohibiting the adoption of any constitution or
58 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
the enactment of any law that ehould nullity pre-existing contracts.
Beit forever remembered that this compact declared that "re-
ligion, morality, and knowledge being necessary to good govern-
ment and the happiness of mankind, schools and the means of edu-
cation shall always be encouraged." Dr. Cutler planted himself
on this platform and would not yield. Giving his unqualified dec-
laration that it was that or nothing, — that unless they could make
the land desirable they did not want it, — he took his horse and buggy
and started for the constitutional convention at Philadelphia. On
July 13. 17S7, the bill was put upon its passage, and was unani-
mously adopted. Thus the great States of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois,
Michigan, and Wisconsin, a vast empire, were consecrated to free-
dom, intelligence, and morality. Thus the great heart of the nation
was prepared to save the union of States, for it was this act that was
the salvation of the republic and the destruction of slavery. Soon
the South saw their great blunder and tried to have the compact
repealed. In 1 803 Congress referred it to a committee, of which
John Kandolph was chairnuin. 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.
SYMrATHY WITH SLAVERY.
"With all this timely aid it was, however, a most desperate and
protracted struggle to keep the soil of Illinois sacred to freedom.
It was the natural battle-iield for the irrepressible conflict. In the
southern end of the State slavery preceded the compact. It ex-
isted amoiiir the old French settlers, and was hard to eradicate.
That portion was also settled from the slave States, and this popu-
lation brought their laws, customs, and institutions with them. A
stream of population from the North poured into the northern part
of the State. These sections misunderstood and hated each other
perfecth*. The Southerners regarded the Yankees as a skinning,
tricky, penurious race of peddlers, tilling 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
riotina: in whiskv, dirt, and iffuorance. 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 in spite of
the deed of cession, it was determined to allow the old French set-
tlers to retain their slaves. Planters from the slave States nuVht
GEN. ARTHUR ST. CLAIR.
OF THE
„v»vEf-SlTY Of
\a\NOis.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 59
bring tlieir slaves if they would give tliera an opportunity to choose
freedom or yeai*s of service and bondage for their cliildren till they
should become thii ty years x)f age. If they chose freedom they
must leave the State within sixty days, or be sold as fugitives.
Servants we^e whipped for oifenses for which white men were fined.
Each lash paid forty cents of the fine. A negro ten miles from
home without a pass was whipped. These famous laws were im-
ported from the slave States, just as the laws for the inspection of
flax and wool were imported when there was neither in the State.
ST. CLAIR, GOVERNOR OF NORTHWESTERN TERRITORY.
On October 5, 1T87, Maj. Gen. Arthur St. Clair was, by Congress,
elected Governor of this vast territory. St. Clair was born in Scot-
land and emigrated to America in 1755. He served in the French
and English war, and was major general in the Revolution. In
1786 he was elected to Congress and chosen President of that body.
ILLINOIS TEHKITORY.
After the division of the Northwestern Territory Illinois became
one of the counties of the Territory of Indiana, from which it was
separated by an act of Congress Feb. 3, 1809, forming the Territory
of Illinois, with a population estimated at 9,000, and then included
the present State of Wisconsin. It was divided, at the time, into
two counties, — St. Clair and Randolph. John Boyle, of Ken-
tucky, was appointed Governor, by the President, James Madison,
but declining, Ninian Edwards, of the same State, was then
appointed and served with distinction; and after the organization
of Illinois as a State he served in the same capacity, being its third
Governor.
WAR OF 1812. THE OUTBREAK.
For some years previous to the war between the United States
and England in 1812, considerable trouble was experienced with the
Indians. Marauding bands of savages would attack small settle-
ments and inhumanly butcher all the inhabitants, and mutilate
their dead bodies. To protect themselves, the settlers organized
companies of rangers, and erected block houses and stockades in
every settlemen-t. The largest, strongest and best one of these was
Fort Russell, near the present village of Edwardsville. This stockade
60 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
was made the main rendezvous for troops and military stores, and
Gov. Edwards, who during the perilous times of 1812, when Indian
hostilities threatened on every hand, assumed command of the Illi-
nois forces, established his headquarters at this place. The Indians
were incited to many of these depredations by English emissaries,
who for years continued their dastardly work of '' setting the red
men, like dogs, upon the whites."
In the summer of 1811 a peace convention was held with the
Pottawatomies at Peoria, when they promised that peace should
prevail; but their promises were soon broken. Tecumseh, the great
warrior, and fit successor of Pontiac, started in the spring of 1811,
to arouse the Southern Indians to war against the whites. The pur-
pose of this chieftain was well known to Gov. Harrison, of Indiana
Territory, who determined during Tecumseh's absence to strike and
disperse the hostile forces collected at Tippecanoe. This he success-
fully did on iS'ov. 7, winning the sobriquet of " Tippecanoe," by
which he was afterwards commonly known. Several peace councils
were held, at which the Indians promised good behavior, but only
to deceive the whites. Almost all the savages of the Northwest
were thoroughly stirred up and did not desire peace. The British
agents at various points, in anticipation of a war with the United
States, sought to enlist the favor of the savages by distributing to
them large supplies of arms, ammunition and other goods.
The English continued their insults to our flag upon the high
seas, and their government refusing to relinquish its offensive course,
all hopes of peace and safe commercial relations were abandoned,
and Congress, on the J9th of June, 1812, formally declared war
against Great Britain. In Illinois the threatened Indian troubles
had already caused a more thorough organization of the militia and
greater protection by the erection of forts. As intimated, the In-
dians took the war-path long before the declaration of hostilities
between the two civilized nations, committing great depredations,
the most atrocious of which was the .
MASSACRE AT FORT DEARBORN.
During the war of 1812 between the United States and England,
the greatest, as well as the most revolting, massacre of whites that
ever occurred in Illinois, was perpetrated by the Pottawatomie In-
dians, at Fort Dearborn. This fort was built by the Government,
in 180-1, on the south side of the Chicago river, and was garrisoned
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
61
by 54 men under command of Capt. Nathan Heald, assisted by
Lieutenant Helm and Ensign Ronan; Dr. Voorliees, surgeon. Tiie
residents at tlie post at that time were the wives of officers Heald
and Helm and a few of the soldiers, Mr. Kinzie and his family, and
a few Canadians. The soldiers and Mr. Kinzie were on the most
friendly terms with the Pottawatomies and Winnebagoes, the prin-
cipal tribes around them.
On the Tth of August, 1812, arrived the order from Gen. Hull, at
Detroit, to evacuate Fort Dearborn, aud distribute all United States
property to the Indians. Chicago was so deep in the wilderness
OLD FORT DEARBORN.
that this was the first intimation the garrison received of the dec-
laration of war made on the 19th of June. The Indian chief who
brouo^ht the dispatch advised Capt. Heald not to evacuate, and
that if he should decide to do so, it be done immediately, and by
forced marches elude the concentration of the savao'es before the
news could be circulated among them. To this most excellent ad-
vice the Captain gave no heed, but on the 12th held a council with
62 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
the Indians, apprising them of the orders received, and offering a
liberal reward for an escort of Pottawatomies to Fort Wayne. The
Indians, with many professions of friendship, assented to all he
proposed, and promised all he required. The remaining officers re-
fused to join in the council, for they had been informed that treach-
ery was designed, — that the Indians intended to murder those in
the council, and then destroy those in the fort. The port holes were
open, displaying cannons pointing directly upon the council. This
action, it is supposed, prevented a massacre at that time.
Mr. Kinzie, who knew the Indians well, begged Capt. Heald
not to confide in their promises, or distribute the arms and ammu-
nitions among them, for it would only put power in their hands to
destroy the whites. This argument, true and excellent in itself,
was now certainly inopportune, and would only incense the treach-
erous foe. But the Captain resolved to follow it, and accordingly on
the night of the 13th, after the distribution of the other property, the
arms were broken, and the barrels of whisky, of which there was a
large quantity, were rolled quietly through the sally-port, their
heads knocked in and their contents emptied into the river. On that
night the lurking red-skins crept near the fort and discovered the
destruction of the promised booty going on within. The next morn-
ing the powder was seen floating on the surface of the river, and
the Indians asserted that such an abundance of " fire-water" had
been emptied into the river as to make it taste " g^oggy.'^ Many
of them drank of it freely.
On the l-ith the desponding garrison was somewhat cheered by
the arrival of Capt. Wells, with 15 friendly Miamis. Capt. Wells
heard at Fort Wavne of the order to evacuate Fort Dearborn, and
knowing the hostile intentions of the Indians, made a rapid march
through the wilderness to protect, if possible, his niece, Mrs. Heald,
and the officers and the garrison from certain destruction. But
he came too late. Every means for its defense had been destroyed
the night before, and arrangements were made for leaving the fort
on the following morning.
The fatal morning of the 16th at length dawned brightly on the
world. The sun shone in unclouded splendor upon the glassy waters
of Lake Michigan. At 9 a. m., the party moved out of the south-
ern gate of the fort, in military array. The band, feeling the solem-
nity of the occasion, struck up the Dead March in Saul. Capt.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 63
Wells, with his face blackened after the manner of the Indians, led
the advance guard at the head of his friendly Miainis, the garrison
with loaded arms, the baggage wagons with the sick, and the women
and children following, while the Pottawatomie Indians, about 500
in number, who had jDledged their honor to escort the whites in
safety to Fort Wayne, brought up the rear. The party took the
road along the lake shore. On reaching the range of sand-hills
separating the beach from the prairie, about one mile and a half-
from the fort, the Indians defiled to the right into the prairie, bring
ing the sand-hills between them and the whites. This divergence
was scarcely effected when Capt. Wells, who had kept in advance
with his Indians, rode furiously back and exclaimed, "They are
about to attack us. Form instantly and charge upon them!"
These words were scarcely uttered before a volley of balls from
Indian muskets was poured in upon them. The troops were hastily
formed into line, and charged up the bank. One veteran of 70 fell
as they ascended. The Indians were driven back to the prairie, and
then the battle was waged by 54 soldiers, 12 civilians, and three or
four women — the cowardly Miamis having fled at the outset —
against 500 Indian warriors. The whites behaved gallantly, and
sold their lives dearly. They fought desperately until two-thirds
of their number were slain; the remaining 27 surrendered. And
now the most sickening and heart-rending butchery of this calam-
itous day was committed by a young savage, who assailed one of
the baggage wagons containing 12 children, every one of which fell
beneath his murderous tomahawk. When Capt. Wells, who with
the others had become prisoner, beheld this scene at a distance, he
exclaimed in a tone loud enough to be heard by the savages, " If
this be your game, I can kill too;" and turning his horse, started
for the place where the Indians had left their squaws and children.
The Indians hotly pursued, but he avoided their deadly bullets for
a time. Soon his horse was killed and he severely wounded. With
a yell the young braves rushed to make him their prisoner and re-
serve him for torture. But an enraged warrior stabbed him in the
back, and he fell dead. His heart was afterwards taken out, cut in
pieces and distributed among the tribes. Billy Caldwell, a half-
breed Wyandot, well-known in Chicago long afterward, buried his
rental ns the next day. Wells street in Chicago, perpetuates his
memory.
64 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
la this fearful combat women bore a coiispicuous part. A wife
of one of the soldiers, who had frequently heard that the Indians
subjected their prisoners to tortures worse than death, resolved not
to be taken alive, and continued fighting until she was literally cut
to pieces. Mrs. Heald was an excellent equestrian, and an expert
in the use of the rifle. iShe fought bravely, receiving several wounds.
Though faint from loss of blood, she managed to keep in her saddle.
A savage raised his tomahawk to kill her, when she looked him full
in the face, and with a sweet smile and gentle voice said, in his
own language, " Surely you will not kill a squaw." The arm of
of the savage fell, and the life of this heroic woman was saved.
Mrs. Ilelm had an encounter with a stalwart Indian, who attempted
to tomahawk her. Springing to one side, she received the glancing
blow on her shoulder, and at the same time she seized the savage
round the neck and endeavored to get his sciilping-knife which
huno: in a sheath at his breast. While she was thus struggling, she
was dragged from his grasp by another and an older Indian. The
latter bore her, struggling and resisting, to the lake and plunged
her in. She soon perceived it was not his intention to drown her,
because he held her in such a position as to keep her head out of
the water. She recognized him to be a celebrated chief called
Black Partridge. When the tiring ceased she was conducted up
the sand-bank.
SLACGHTEE OF PRISONERS.
The prisoners were taken back to the Indian camp, when a new
scene of horror was enacted. The wounded not beins included in
the terms of the surrender, as it was interpreted by the Indians,
and the British general, Proctor, having offered a liberal bounty for
American scalps, nearly all the wounded were killed aiid scalped,
and the price of the trophies was afterwards paid by the British
general. In the stipulation of surrender, Capt. Ileald had not
particularly mentioned the wounded. These helpless sufferers, on
reaching the Indian camp, were therefore regarded by the brutal
savages as fit subjects upon which to display their cruelty and satisfv
their desire for bload. Referring to the terrible butchery of the
prisoners, in an account given by Mrs. Helm, she says: "An old
squaw, infuriated by the loss of friends or excited by the sanguin-
ary scenes around her, seemed possessed of demoniac fury. She
seized a stable-fork and assaulted one miserable victim, who lay
HISTOKV OK ILLINOIS.
fJo
groaning and writhing in the agonies of his wounds, aggravated by
the scorching beams of the sun. With a delicacy of feeling, scarcely
to have been expected under such circumstances. Wan-bee-nee-wan
stretched a mat across two poles, between me and this dreadful scene.
I was thus spared, in some degree, a view of its horrors, although I
could not entirely cloise my ears to the cries of the sufferer. The
following night live more of the wounded prisoners were toma-
hawked."
KINZIE FAMILY SAVED.
That evening, about sundown, a council of chiefs was held to
decide the fate of the prisoners, and it was agreed to deliver them
UUi KINZIE HOUSE.
to the British commander at Detroit. After dark, many warriors
from a distance came into camp, who were thirsting for blood, and
were determined to murder the prisoners regardless of the terms of
surrender. Black Partridge, with a few of his friends, surrounded
Kinzie's house to protect the inmates from the tomahawks of the
bloodthirsty savages. Soon a band of hostile warriors rushed by
them into the liouse, and stood with tomahawks and scalping-knives,
awaiting the signal from their chief to commence the work of death..
66 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
Black Partridge said to Mrs. Kinzie: "We are doing everything
in our power to save jou, but all is now lost; you and your friends,
together with all the prisoners of the camp, will now be siain." At
that moment a canoe was heard approaching the shore, when Black
Partridge ran down to the river, trying in the darkness to make out
the new comers, and at the same time shouted, "Who are you?"
In the bow of the approaching canoe stood a tall, manly personage,
with a rifle in his hand. He jumped ashore exclaiming, " I am
Sau-ga-nash." "Then make all speed to the house; our friends are
in danger, and you only can save them.'' It was Billy Caldwell,
the half-breed Wyandot. He hurried forward, entered the house
with a resolute step, deliberately removed his accouterments, placed
his rifle behind the door, and saluted the Indians: " How now, ray
friends! a good day to you. I was told there were enemies here,
but am glad to find only friends." Diverted by the coolness of his
manner, they were ashamed to avow their murderous purpose, and
simply asked for some cotton goods to wrap their dead, for burial.
And thus, by his presence of mind, Caldwell averted the murder of
the Kinzie family and the prisoners. The latter, with their wives
and children, were dispersed among the Pottawatomie tribes along
the Illinois, Rock and Wabash rivers, and some to Milwaukee.
The most of them were ransomed at Detroit the following spring.
A part of them, however, remained in captivity another year.
EXPEDITION AGAINST THE INDIANS.
By the middle of August, through the disgraceful surrender of
Gen. Hull, at Detroit, and the evacuation of Fort Dearborn and
massacre of its garrison, the British and Indians were in possession of
the whole Northwest. The savages, emboldened by their successes,
penetrated deeper into the settlements, committing great depre-
dations. The activity and success of the enemy aroused the people
to a realization of the erreat danger their homes and families were
in. Gov. Edwards collected a force of 350 men at Camp Russell,
and Capt. Russell came from Yincennes with about 50 more. Being
officered and equipped, they proceeded about the middle of October
on horseback, carrying with them 20 days' rations, to Peoria. Capt.
Craig was sent with two boats up the Illinois, with provisions
and tools to build a fort. The little army proceeded to Peoria
Lake, where was located a Pottawatomie village. They arrived late
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 67
at night, within a few miles of the village, without their presence
being known to the Indians. Four men were sent out that night
to reconnoiter the position of the village. The four brave men who
volunteered for this perilous service were Thomas Carlin (after-
ward Governor), and Ivobert, Stephen and Davis Whiteside. They
proceeded to the village, and explored it and the approaches to it
thoroughly, without starting an Indian or provoking the bark of a
dog. The low lands between the Indian village and the troops were
covered with a rank growth of tall grass, eo high and dense as to
readily conceal an Indian on horseback, until within a few feet of
him. The ground had become still more yielding by recent rains,
rendering it almost imy^assable by mounted men. To prevent de-
tection, the soldiers had camped without lighting the usual camp-
fires. The men lay down in their cold and cheerless camp, with
many misgivings. They well remembered how the skulking sav-
ages fell upon Harrison's men at Tippecanoe during the night. To
add to their fears, a gun in the hands of a soldier was carelessly
discharged, raising great consternation in the camp.
AN INDIAN KILLED.
Tlirough a dense fog which prevailed the following morning, the
army took up its- line of march for tlie Indian town, Capt. Judy
with his corps of spies in advance. In the tall grass they came up
with an Indian and his squaw, both mounted. The Indian wanted
to eurrender, but Judy observed that he "did not leave home to take
prisoners, ' and instantly shot one of them. With the blood
streaming from his mouth and nose, and in his agony "singing the
death song," the dying Indian raised his gun, shot and mortally
wounded a Mr. Wright, and in a few minutes expired. Many guns
were immediatelv discharged at the other Indian, not then known
to be a squaw, all of which missed her. Badly scared, and her hus-
band killed by her side, the agonizing wails of the squaw were
heart-rending. She was taken prisoner, and afterwards restored
to her nation.
TOWN BURNED.
On rearing the town a general charge was made, the Indians
fleeing to the interior wilderness. Some of their warriors made a
stand, when a sharp engagement occurred, but the Indians were
routed. In their flight they left behind all their winter's store of
68 HISTOET OF ILLINOIS.
provisions, which was taken, and their town burned. Some Indian
children were fouud who had been left in ihe hurried flight, also
some disabled adults, oue of whom was in a starving condition and
with a voracious appetite partook of the bread given liim. He is
said to have been killed by a cowardly trooper straggling behind,
after the main army had resumed its retrograde march, who wanted
to be able to boast that he had killed an Indian.
About the time Gov. Edwards started with his little band against
the Indians, Gen. Hopkins, with 2,000 Kentucky riflemen, left
Viucennes to cross the prairies of Illinois and destroy the Indian
villages along the Illinois river. Edwards, with his rangers, ex-
pected to act in concert with Gen. Hopkins' riflemen. After
inarching 80 or 90 miles into the enemy's country. Gen. Hopkins'
men became dissatisfied, and on Oct. 20 the entire army turned
and retreated homeward before ev^en a foe had been met. After the
victory of the Illinois rangers they heard nothing of Gen. Hopkins
and his 2,000 mounted Kentucky riflemen ; and apprehensive that a
large force of warriors would be speedily collected, it was deemed
prudent not to protract their stay, and accordingly the retrograde
march was commenced the very day of the attack.
PEOEIA BURNED.
The force of Capt. Craig, in charge of the provision boats, was
not idle during this time. They proceeded to Peoria, where they
were fired on by ten Indians during the night, who immediately
fled. Capt. Craig discovered, at daylight, their tracks leading up
into the French town. He inquired of the French their where-
abouts, who denied all knowledge of them, and said they " had
heard or seen nothing; " but he took the entire number prisoners,
burned and destroyed Peoria, and bore the ca|)tured inhabitants
away on his boats to a point below the present city of Alton, where
he landed and left them in the woods, — men, women, and cliildren, —
in the inclement month of November, without shelter, and without
food other than the slender stores they had themselves gathered up
before their departure. Tliey found their way to St. Louis in an
almost starving condition. The burning of Peoria and taking its
inhabitants prisoners, on the mere suspicion that they sympathized
with the Indians, was generally regarded as a needless, if not
wanton, act of military power.
PONTIAC. THE OTTAWA CHIEF.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 71
SECOND EXPEDITION AGAINST THE INDIANS.
In the early part of 1813, the country was put in as good defense
as the sparse popuhition admitted. In spite of the precaution taken,
numerous depredations and murders were committed bj the In-
dians, which again aroused the whites, and another expedition was
sent against the foe, who had collected in large numbers in and
around Peoria. This army was composed of about 900 men, collect-
ed from both Illinois and Missouri, and under command of Gen.
Howard. They marched across the broad prairies of Illinois to
Peoria, where there was a small stockade in charge of United States
troops. Two days previously the Indians made an attack on the
fort, but were repulsed. Being in the enemy's country, knowing
their stealthy habits, and the troops at no time observing a high de-
gree of discipline, many unnecessary night alarms occurred, yet the
enemy were far away. The army marched up the lake to Chili-
cothe, burning on its way two deserted villages. At the present
site of Peoria the troops remained in camp several weeks. While
there they built a fort, which they named in honor of Gen. George
Rogers Clark, who with his brave Virginians wrested Illinois from
the English during the Revolutionary struggle. This fort was de-
stroyed by fire in 1818. It gave a name to Peoria which it wore for
several years. After the building of Fort Crevecceur, in 1680, Peo-
ria lake was very familiar to Western travel and history; but there
is no authentic account of a permanent European settlement there
until 1778, when Laville de Meillet, named after its founder, was
started. Owing to the quality of the water and its greater salu-
brity, the location was changed to the present site of Peoria, and by
1796 the old had been entirely abandoned for the new village.
After its destruction in 1812 it was not settled again until 1819,
and then by American pioneers, though in 1813 Fort Clark was
built there.
EXPEDITION UP THE MISSISSIPPI.
The second campaign against the Indians at Peoria closed with-
out an engagement, or even a sight of the enemy, yet great was the
benefit derived from it. It showed to the Indians the power and
resources of his white foe. Still the calendar of the horrible deeds
of butchery of the following year is long and bloody. A joint ex-
pedition again moved against the Indians in 1814, under Gov.
72 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
Clark of Missouri. This time they went up the Mississippi in
barges, Prairie du Cliien being the point of destination. There tliey
found a small garrison of British troops, which, however, soon fled,
as did the inhabitants, leaving Clark in full possession. He im-
mediately set to work and erected Fort Shelby. The Governor
returned to St. Louis, leaving his men in peaceable possession of
the place, but a large force of British and Indians came down upon
them, and the entire garrison surrendered. In the mean time Gen.
Howard sent 108 men to strengthen the garrison. Of this number
66 were Illinois rangers, under Capts. Rector and Riggs, who oc-
cupied two boats. The remainder were with Lieut. Campbell.
A DESPERATE FIGHT.
At Rock Island Campbell was warned to turn back, as an attack
was contemplated. The other boats passed on up the river and
were some two miles ahead when Campbell's barge was struck by a
strong gale which forced it against a small island near the Illinois
shore. Thinking it best to lie to till the wind abated, sentinels
were stationed while the men went ashore to cook breakfast. At
this time a large number of Indians on the main shore under
Black Hawk commenced an attack. The savages in canoes passed
rapidly to the island, and with a war-whoop rushed upon the men,
who retreated and sought refuge in the barge. A battle of brisk
musketry now ensued between the few regulars aboard the stranded
barge and the hordes of Indians under cover of trees on the island,
with severe loss to the former. Meanwhile Capt. Rector and Riggs,
ahead with their barges, seeing the smoke of battle, attempted to
return; but in the strong gale Riggs' boat became unmanageable
and was stranded on the rapids. Rector, to avoid a similar disaster,
let go his anchor. The rangers, however, opened with good aim
and telling effect upon the savages. The unequal combat having
raged for some time and about closing, the commander's barge,
with many wounded and several dead on board, — among: the former
of whom, very badly, was Campbell himself, — was discovered to be
on fire. Now Rector and his bi'ave Illinois rangers, comprehending
the horrid situation, performed, without delay, as cool and heroic a
deed — and did it well — as ever imperiled the life of mortal man.
In the howling gale, in full view of hundreds of infuriated savages,
and within range of their rifles, they deliberately raised anchor,
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. T3
liglitened their barge by casting overboard quantities of provisions,
and guided it with the utmost labor down the switt current, to the
windward of the burning barge, and under the galling fire of the
enemy rescued all the survivors, and removed the wounded and
dying to their vessel. This was a deed of noble daring and as
heroic as any performed during the war in the West. Rector hur-
ried with his over-crowded vessel to St. Louis.
It was now feared that Riggs and his company were captured
and sacrificed by the savages. His vessel, which was strong and well
armed, was for a time surrounded by the Indians, but the whites
on the inside were well sheltered. The wind becoming allayed in
the evening, the boat, under cover of the night, glided safel}^ down
the river without the loss of a single man.
STILL ANOTHER EXPEDITION.
Notwithstanding the disastrous termination of the two expedi-
tions already sent out, during the year 1814, still another was pro-
jected. It was under Maj. Zachary Taylor, afterward President.
Rector and Whiteside, with the Illinoisan, were in command of
boats. The expedition passed Rock Island unmolested, when it
was learned the country was not only swarming with Indians, but
that the English were there in command with a detachment of regu-
lars and artillerv. The advanced boats in command of Rector, White-
side and Hempstead, turned about and began to descend the rapids,
fighting with great gallantry the hordes of the enemy, who were
pouring their fire into them from the shore at every step.
Near the mouth of Rock river Maj. Taylor anchored his fleet out
in the Mississippi. During the night the English planted a battery
of six pieces down at the water's edge, to sink or disable the boats,
and filled the islands with red-skins to butcher the whites, who
might, unarmed, seek refuge there. But in this scheme they were
frustrated. In the morning Taylor ordered all the force, except 20
boatmen on each vessel, to the upper island to dislodge the enemy.
The order was executed with great gallantry, the island scoured,
many of the savages killed, and the rest driven to the lower island.
In the meantime the British cannon told with eflfect upon the fleet.
The men rushed back and the boats were dropped down the stream
out of range of the cannon. Capt. Rector was now ordered with
his company to make a sortie on the lower island, which he did,
74 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
driving the Indians back among the willows ; but they being re-in-
forced, in turn hurled Rector back upon the sand-beach.
A council of officers called by Taylor had by this time decided
that their force was too small to contend with the enemy, who
outnumbered them tliree to one, and the boats were in full retreat
down the river. As Hector attempted to get under way his boat
grounded, and the savages, with demoniac yells, surrounded it,
when a most desperate hand-to-hand conflict ensued. The gallant
ranger, Samuel Whiteside, observing the imminent peril of his
brave Illinois comrade, went immediately to his rescue, who but for
his timely aid would undoubtedly have been overpowered, with all
his force, and murdered.
Thus ended the last, like the two previous expeditions up the
Mississippi during the war of 1S12, in defeat and disaster. The
enerny was in undisputed posession of all the country north of the
Illinois river, and the prospects respecting those territories boded
nothing but gloom. "With the approach of winter, however, Indian
depredations ceased to be committed, and the peace of Ghent, Dec.
24, 1814, closed the war.
ILLINOIS AS A STATE.
ORGANIZATION.
In January of 1818 the Territorial Legislature forwarded to
Nathaniel Pope, delegate in Congress from Illinois, a petition pray-
ing for admission into the national Union as a State. On April
18th of the same year Congress passed the enabling act, and Dec.
3, after the State government had been organized and Gov. Bond
had signed the Constitution, Congress by a resolution declared Illi-
nois to be "one of the United States of America, and admitted into
the Union on an equal footing with the original States in all
respects."
The ordinance of 1787 declared that there should be at least three
States carved out of the Northwestern Territory. The boundaries
of the three, Ohio, Indiana and Illinois, were fixed by this law.
Congress reserved the power, however, of forming two other States
out of the territory which lies north of an east and west line drawn
through the southern boundary of Lake Michigan. It was generally
conceded that this line would be the northern boundary of Illinois ;
HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS. 75
but as this would give tlie State no coast on Lake Michigan; and
rob her of the port of Chicago and the northern terminus of the
Illinois & Michigan canal which was then contemplated, Judge
Pope had the northern boundary moved fifty miles further north.
BOUNDARY CHANGED.
!N'ot only is Illinois indebted to Nathaniel Pope for the port where
now enter and depart more vessels during the year than in any
other port in the world, for the northern terminus of the Illinois
& Michigan ca::al, and for the lead mines at Galena, but the nation,
the undivided Union, is largely indebted to him for its perpetuity.
It was he, — his foresight, statesmanship and energy, — that bound
our confederated Union with bands of iron that can never be broken.
The geographical position of Illinois, with her hundreds of miles
of water-courses, is such as to make her the key to the grand arch
of Northern and Southern States. Extending from, the great chain
of lakes on the north, with snow and ice of the arctic region, to the
cotton-fields of Tennessee ; peopled, as it is, by almost all races,
classes and conditions of the human family ; guided by the various
and diversified political, agricultural, religious and educational
teachings common to both North and South, — Illinois can control,
and has controlled, the destinies of our united and beloved republic.
Pope seemingly foresaw that a struggle to dissolve the Union would
be made. With a prophetic eye he looked down the stream of time
for a half century and saw the great conflict between the South and
North, caused by a determination to dissolve the confederation of
States; and to preserve the Union, he gave to Illinois a lake coast.
Gov. Ford, in his History of Illinois, wi'itten in 1847, while
speaking of this change of boundary and its influence upon our
nation, says:
"What, then, was the duty of the national Government? Illinois
was certain to be a great State, with any boundaries which that
Government could give. Its great extent of territory, its unrivaled
fertility of soil and capacity for sustaining a dense population,
together with its commanding position, would in course of time
give the new State a very controlling inflfience with her sister
States situated upon the Western rivers, either in sustaining the
federal Union as it is, or in dissolving it and establishing new gov-
ernments. If left entirely upon the waters of these great rivers, it
76 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
was plain that, in case of threatened disruption, the interest of the
new IState would be to join a Southern and Western confederacy;
but if a large portion of it could be made dependent upon the com-
merce and navigation of the great northern lakes, connected as they
are with the Eastern States, a rival interest would be created to
check the wish for a Western and Southern confederacy.
" It therefore became tlie duty of the national Government not
only to make Illinois strong, but to raise an interest inclining and
binding her to the Eastern and JSTorthern portions of the Union.
This could be done only through an interest in the lakes. At that
time the commerce on the lakes was small, but its increase was con-
fidently expected, and, indeed, it has exceeded all anticipations,
and is yet only in its infancy. To accomplish this object efi'ectually,
it was not only necessary to give to Illinois the port of Chicago and
a route for the canal, but a considerable coast on Lake Michigan,
with a country back of it sufficiently extensive to contain a popu-
lation capable of exerting a decided influence upon the councils of
the State,
" There would, therefore, be a large commerce of the north, west-
ern and central portion of the State afloat on the lakes, for it was
then foreseen that the canal would be made; and this alone would
be like turning one of the many mouths of the Mississippi into
Lake Michigan at Chicago. A very large commerce of the center
and south would be found both upon the lakes and rivers. Asso-
ciations in business, in interest, and of friendship would be formed,
both with the Xorth and the South. A State thus situated, having
such a decided interest in the commerce, and in tlie preservation of
the whole confederacj', can never consent to disunion ; for the Union
cannot be dissolved without a division and disruption of the State
itself. These views, urged by Judge Pope, obtained the unquali-
fied assent of the statesmen of 1818.
" These facts and views are worthy to be recorded in history as
a standing and perpetual call upon Ulinoisans of every age to
remember the great trust which has been reposed in them, as the
peculiar champions and guardians of the Union by the great men
and patriot sages who adorned and governed this country in the
earlier and better days of the Republic."
During the dark and trying days of the Kebellion, well did she
remember this sacred trust, to protect which two hundred thousand
HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS. 77
of her sons went to the bloody field of battle, crowning their arms
with the laurels of war, and keeping inviolate the solemn obliga-
tions bequeathed to them by their fathers.
FIRST CONSTITUTION.
In July and August of 1818 a convention was held at Kaskaskia
for the purpose of drafting a constitution. This constitution was
not submitted to a vote of the people for their approval or i^ejection,
it being well known that they would approve it. It was about the
first organic law of any State in the Union to abolish imprisonment
for debt. The first election under the constitution was held on the
third Thursday and the two succeeding days in September, 1818.
Shadrach Bond was elected Governor, and Pierre Menard Lieuten-
ant Governor. Their term of office extended four years. At this
time che State was divided into fifteen counties, the population being
about 40,000. Of this number by far the larger portion were from
the Southern States. The salary of the Governor was $1,000, while
that of the Treasurer was $500. The Legislature re-enacted, ver-
batim, the Territorial Code, the penalties of which were unneces-
sarily severe. Whipping, stocks and pillory were used for minor
offenses, and for arson, rape, horse-stealing, etc., death bv hano-ino-
was the penalty. These laws, iiowever, were modified in 1821.
The Legislature first convened at Kaskaskia, the ancient seat of
empire for more than one hundred and fifty years, both for the
French and Americans. Provisions were made, however, for the
removal of the seat of government by this Legislature. A place in the
wilderness on the Kaskaskia river was selected and named Yandalia.
From Yandalia it was removed to Springfield in the year 1837.
DERIVATION OF THE NAME ILLINOIS.
The name of this beautiful "Prairie State" is derived from
Illini.'Axx Indian word signifying superior men. It has a French
termination, and is a symbol of the manner in which the two races,
the French and Indians, were intermixed during the early history
of the country. The appellation was no doubt well applied to the
primitive inhabitants of the soil, whose prowess in savage warfare
long withstood the combined attacks of the fierce Iroquois on the
one side, and the no less savage and relentless Sacs and Foxes on the
other. The Illinois were once a powerful confederacy, occupying
the most beautiful and fertile region in the great valley of the
78 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
Mississippi, which their enemies coveted and struggled long and
hard to wrest from them. Bj the fortunes of war thej were dimin-
ished in number and finally destroyed. " Starved Rock," on the
Illinois river, according to tradition, commemorates their last trag-
edy, where, it is said, the entire tribe starved rather than surrender.
The low cognomen of " Sucker," as applied to lUinoisans, is said
to have had its origin at the Galena lead mines. In an early day,
when these extensive mines were being worked, men would run up
the Mississippi river in steamboats in the spring, work the lead
mines, and in the fall return, thus establishing, as was supposed, asim-
ilitude between their migratory habits and tiiose of the fishy tribe
called "Suckers." For this reason the Illinoisans have ever since
been distinguished by the epithet " Suckers." Those who stayed
at the mines over winter were mostly from Wisconsin, and were
called " Badgers." One spring the Missourians poured into the
mines in such numbers that the State was said to have taken a puke,
and the offensive appellation of " Pukes " was afterward applied to
all Missourians.
The southern part of the State, known as " Egypt," received this
appellation because, being older, better settled and cultivated, grain
was had in greater abundance than in the central and northern por-
tion, and the immigrants of this region, after the manner of the
children of Israel, went "thitlier to buy and to bring from thence
that they might live and not die."
STATE BANK.
The Legislature, during the latter years of territorial existence,
granted charters to several banks. The result was that paper money
became very abundant, times flush, and credit unlimited; and every-
body invested to the utmost limit of his credit, with confident
expectation of realizing a handsome advance before the expiration
of his credit, from the throng of immigrants then pouring into the
country. By 1819 it became apparent that a day of reckoning
would approach before their dreams of fortune could be realized.
Banks everywhere began to waver, paper money became depreci-
ated, and gold and silver driven out of the country. The Legisla-
ture sought to bolster up the times by incorporating the '' Bank
of Illinois," which, with several branches, was created by the ses-
sion of 1821. This bank, being wholly supported by the credit of
the State, was to issue one, two, three, five, ten and twenty-dollar
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 79
notes. It was the duty of the bank to advance, upon personal prop-
erty, money to the amount of $100, and a larger amount upon real
estate. All taxes and public salaries could be paid in such bills;
and if a creditor refused to take them, he had to wait three years
longer before he could collect his debt. The people imagined that
simply because the government had issued the notes, they would
remain at par; and although this evidently could not be the case,
they were yet so infatuated with their project as actually to request
the United States government to receive them in payment for their
public lands! Although there were not wanting men who, like
John McLean, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, fore-
saw the dangers and evils likely to arise from the creation of such
a bank, by tar the greater part of the people were in favor of it.
The new bank was themfore started. The new issue of bills by the
bank of course only aggravated the evil, heretofore so grievously
felt, of the absence of s])ecie, so that the people were soon com-
pelled to cut their bills in halves and quarters, in order to make
small change in trade. Finally the paper currency so rapidly depre-
ciated that three dollars in these bills were considered worth only
.one in specie, and the State not only did not increase its revenue,
but lost full two-thirds of it, and expended three times the amount
required to pay the expenses of the State government.
Lafayette's visit.
In the spring of 1825 the brave and generous LaFayette visited
Illinois, accepting the earnest invitation of the General Assembly,
and an affectionately written letter of Gov. Cole's, who had formed
his personal acquaintance in France in 1817. The General in reply
said: " It has been my eager desire, and it is now my earnest inten-
tion, to visit the Western States, and particularly the State of Illi-
nois. The feelings which your distant welcome could not fail to
excite have increased that patriotic eagerness to admire on that
blessed spot the happy and rapid results of republican institutions,
public and domestic virtues. I shall, after the 22d of February
(anniversary daj'), leave here for a journey to the Southern States,
and from New Orleans to the Western States, so as to return to
Boston on the 14th of June, when the corner-stone of the Bunker
Hill monument is to be laid, — a ceremony sacred to the whole Union
and in which I have been engaged to act a peculiar and honorable
part."
80 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
General LaFayette and suite, attended by a large delegation of
prominent citizens of Missouri, made a visit by the steamer jS'atch-
ez to the ancient town of Kaskaskia. No military parade was
attempted, but a multitude of patriotic citizens made him welcome.
A reception was held, Gov. Cole delivering a glowing address of
welcome. During the progress of a grand ball held that night, a
very interestinor interview took place between the honored General
and an Indian squaw whose father had served under him in the
Revolutionary war. The squaw, learning that the great white chief
was to be at Kaskaskia on that night, had ridden all day, from early
dawn till sometime in the night, from her distant home, to see
tlie man whose name had been so often on her father's tongue, and
with which she was so familiar. In identification of her claim to
his distinguished acquaintance, she brought with her an old, worn
letter which the General had written to her father, and which the
Indian chief had preserved with great care, and finally bequeathed
on his death-bed to his daughter as the most precious legacy he had
to leave her.
By 12 o'clock at night Gen. La Fayette returned to his boat and
started South. The boat was chartered by the State.
EA.RLY GOVERNOR?^.
In the year 1822 the term of office of the first Governor, Shadrach
Bond, expired. Two parties sprung up at this time, — one favorable,
the other hostile, to tlie introduction of slavery, each proposing a
candidate of its own for Governor. Both parties worked hard to
secure the election of their respective candidates; but the people at
large decided, as they ever have been at heart, in favor of a free
State. Edward Coles, an anti-slavery man, was elected, although a
majority of the Legislature were opposed to him. The subject of
principal interest during his administration was to make Illinois a
slave State. The greatest effort was made in 1824, and the propo-
sition was defeated at the polls by a majority of 1,800. The aggre-
gate vote polled was 11,612, being about 6,000 larger than at the
previous State election. African slaves were first introduced into
Illinois in 1Y20 bv Renault, a Frenchman,
Senator Duncan, afterward Governor, presented to the Legisla-
ture of 1824-5 a bill for the support of schools by a public tax; and
William S. Hamilton presented another bill requiring a tax to be
HISTORY OK ILLINOIS. 81
used for the purpose of constructing and repairing the roads, — both
of which bills passed and became laws. But although these laws
conferred an incalculable benelit upon the public, the very name of
a tax was so odious to the people that, rather than pay a tax of the
smallest possible amount, they preferred working as they formerly
did, five days during the year on the roads, and would allow their
children to grow up without any instruction at all. Consequently
both laws were abolished in 1826.
In the year 1826 the office of Governor became again vacant.
Ninian Edwards, Adolphus F. Hubbard and Thomas C Sloe were
candidates. Edwards, though the successful candidate, had made
himself many enemies by urging strict inquiries to be made into
the corruption of the State bank, so that Jiad it not been for his
talents and noble personal appearance, he would most probably not
have been elected. Hubbard was a man of but little personal merit.
Of him tradition has preserved, among other curious sayings, a
speech on a bill granting a bounty on wolf-scalps. This speech,
delivered before the Legislature, is as follows: "Mr. Speaker, I rise
before the question is put on this bill, to say a word for my constit-
uents. Mr. Speaker, I have never seen a wolf. I cannot say that
I am very well acquainted with the nature and habits of wolves.
Mr. Speaker, I have said that I had never seen a vyolf; but now I
remember that once on a time, as Judge Brown and I were riding
across the Bonpas prairie, we looked over the prairie about three
miles, and Judge Brown said, ' Hubbard, look! there goes a wolf; '
and I looked, and I looked, and I looked, and I said, ' Judge, where?'
and he said, 'There!' And I looked again, and this time in the
edge of a hazel thicket, about three miles across the prairie, I think
I saw the wolf's tail. Mr. Speaker, if I did not see a wolf that
time, I think I never saw one; but I have heard much, and read
more, about this animal. I have studied his natural history.
"By the bye, history is divided into two parts. There is first
the history of the fabulous; and secondly, of the non-fabulous, or
unknown age. Mr. Speaker, from all these sources of information
I learn that the wolf is a very noxious animal ; that he goes prowl-
ing about, seeking something to devour; that he rises up in the
dead and secret hours of night, when all nature reposes in silent
oblivion, and then commits the most terrible devastation upon the
rising generation of hogs and sheep.
82 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
" Mr. Speaker, I have done; and I return mj thanks to the house
for tlieir kind attention to my remarks."
Gov. Edwards was a large and v/ell-made man, vpith a noble,
princely appearance. Of him Gov. Ford savs: "He never con-
descended to the common low art of electioneering. Whenever he
went out among the people he arrayed himself in the style of a
gentleman of the olden time, dressed in fine broadcloth, with short
breeches, long stockings, and high, fair-topped boots; was drawn in
a fine carriage driven by a negro; and for success he relied upon his
speeches, which were delivered in great pom]) and in style of difi'iise
and florid eloquence. Wlieu he was inaugurated in 1826, he
appeared before the General Assembly wearing a golden-laced cloak,
and with great pomp pronounced his first message to the houses
of the Legislature."
GRAMMAR AND COOK CONTRASTED.
Demagogism had an early development. One John Grammar,
who was elected to the Territorial Legislature in 1816, and held the
position for about twenty years, invented the policy of opposing
every new thing, saying, "If it succeeds, no one will ask who
voted against it: if it proves a failure, he could quote its record."
When first honored with a seat in the Assembly, it is said that
he lacked the apparel necessary- for a member of the Legislature,
and in order to procure them he and his sons gathered a large
quantity of hazel-nuts, which were taken to the Ohio Saline and
sold for cloth to make a coat and pantaloons. The cloth was the
blue strouding commonly used by the Lidians.
The neighboring women assembled to make up the garments; the
cloth was measured every way, — across, lengthwise, and from corner
to corner, — and still was found to be scant. It was at last con-
cluded to make a very short, bob-tailed coat and a long pair of leg-
gins, which being finished, Mr. Grammar started for the State
capital. In sharp contrast with Grammar was the character of D.
P. Cook, in honor of whom Cook county was named. Such was
his transparent integrity and remarkable ability that his will was
almost the law of the State. In Cono-ress. a voung man and from
a poor State, he was made Chairman of the Ways and Means Com-
mittee. He was pre-eminent for standing by his committee, regard-
less of consequences. It was his integrity that elected John Quincy
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 83
Adams to the Presidency. There were four candidates in 1824,
' Jackson, Clay, Crawford and Adams. Tn^re being no choice by
the people, the election was thrown into the House. It was so bal-
anced that it turned on his vote, and that he cast for Adams, elect-
iiioj him. Ho tlien came home to face the wrath of the Jackson
party in Illinois.
The first mail route in the State was established in 1805. This
was from Vincennes to Cahokia. In 1824 there was a direct mail
route from Vandalia to Springfield. The first route i'rom the central
part of the State to Chicago was established in 1832, from Shelby-
ville. The difficulties and dangers encountered by the early mail
carriers, in time of Indian troubles, were very serious. The bravery
and ingenious devices of Harry Milton are mentioned with special
commendation. When a boy, in 1812, he conveyed the mail on a
wild French pony from Shawneetown to St. Louis, over swollen
streams and through the enemy's country. So infrequent and
irregular were the communications by mail a great part of the time,
that to-day, even the remotest part of the United States is unable to
appreciate it by example.
The first newspaper published in Illinois was the Illinois Herald^
established at Kaskaskia by Mathew Duncan. There is some va-
riance as to the exact time of its establishment. Gov. Revnolds
claimed it was started in 1809. Wm. H. Brown, afterwards its
editor, gives the date as 1814.
In 1831 the criminal code was first adapted to penitentiary pun-
ishment, ever since which time the old system of whipping and
pillory for the punishment of criminals has l)een disused.
There was no legal rate of interest till 1830. Previously the rate
often reached as high as 150 per cent., but was usually 50 per cent.
Then it was reduced to 12, then to 10, and lastly to 8 per cent.
INDIAM TKOUBLES.
WINNEBAGO WAR.
The Indians, who for some years were on peaceful terms with
the whites, became troublesome in 1827. The Winnebagoes, Sacs
and Foxes and other tribes had been at war for more than a hun-
dred 3'ears. In the summer of 1827 a war party of the TVinnebafjoes
surprised a party of Chippewas and killed eight of them. Four
84 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
of the murderers were arrested and delivered to the Chippewas,
by whom they were immediately shot. This was the first irritation
of the Winnebagoes. Red Bird, a chief of this tribe, in order to
avenge the execution of the four warriors of his own people, attacked
the Chippewas, but was defeated; and being determined to satisfy
his thirst for revenge by some means, surprised and killed several
white men. Upon receiving intelligence of these murders, the
whites who were working the lead mines in the vicinity of Galena
formed a body of volnnteers,and, re-inforced by a company of United
States troops, marched into the country of the Winnebagoes. To
save their nation from the miseries of war, Red Bird and six other
men of his nation voluntarily surrendered themselves. Some of
the number were executed, some of them imprisoned and destined,
like Red Bird, ingloriously to pine away within the narrow confines
of a jail, when formerly the vast forests had proven too limited for
them.
JOHN REYNOLDS ELECTED GOVERNOR,
In August, 1830, another gubernatorial election was held. The
candidates were William Kinney, then Lieutenant Governor, and
John Reynolds, formerly an Associate Justice of the Supreme Court,
both Jackson Democrats. The opposition brought forward no can-
didate, as they were in a helpless minority. Reynolds was the
successful candidate, and under his administration was the famous
BLACK HAWK WAR.
In the year of 1804 a treaty was concluded between the United
States and the chiefs of the Sac and Fox nations. One old chief of
the Sacs, however, called Black Hawk, who had fought with great
bravery in the service of Great Britain during the war of 1812, had
always taken exceptions to this treaty, pronouncing it void. In 1831
he established himself, with a chosen band of warriors, upon the dis-
puted territory, ordering the whites to leave the country at once. The
settlers complaining, Gov. Reynolds dispatched Gen. Gaines, with a
company of regulars and 1,500 volunteers, to the scene of action.
Taking the Indians by surprise, the troops burnt their villages and
forced them to conclude a treaty, by which they ceded all lands east
of the Mississippi, and agreed to remain on the western side of the
river. Necessity forced the proud spirit of Black Hawk into
submission, which made him more than ever deterniined to be
BLACK HAWK, THE SAC CHIEF.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 87
aveno-ed npoi: his enemies. Having rallied around him the warlike
braves of tiie Sat-, and Fox. natio^ns, he crossed the Mississippi in tiie
spring of 1(>32. Upon hearing of the invasion, Gov. Reynolds
hastily collecte-' a body of 1,800 volunteers, placing them under the
command oi iiiig-Gen. Samuel Whiteside.
stillman's kun.
The army marched to the Mississippi, and havirig reduced to
ashes the Indian village known as '-Prophet's Town,'' proceeded
for several miles up the river to Dixon, to join the regular forces
under Gen. Atkinson. They found at Dixon two companies of
volunteers, who, sighing for glory, were dispatched to reconnoiter
the enemy. Tliey advanced under command of M:ij. Stillman, to a
creek afterwards called "Stillman's run;" and while encamping
there saw a party of mounted Indians at the distance of a mile.
Several of SilUman's party mounted their horses and charged the
Indians, killing three of them; but, attacked by the main body
under Black Hawk, they were routed, and by their precipitate
flight spread such a panic through the camp that the whole company
ran off to Dixon as fast as their logs could carry them. On their
arrival it was found that there had been eleven killed. The party
came straggling into camp all night long, four or five at a time,
each squad positive that all who were left behind were massacred.
It is said that a big, tall Kentuckian, with a loud voice, who
was a colonel of the militia but a private with Stillman, upon his
arrival in camr- gave to Gen. Whiteside and the wondering multi-
tude the follov/ino: g-lowing and bombastic account of the battle:
"Sirs," said lie, "our detachment was encamped among some scat-
tering timber on the north side of Old Man's creek, with the prairie
from the north gently sloping down to our encampment. It was
just after twilight, in the gloaming of the evening, when we dis-
covered Black Hawk's army coming down upon us in solid column;
they displayed in the form of a crescent upon the brow of the prai-
rie, and such accuracy and precision of military movements were
never witnessed Dy man; they were equal to the best troops of
Wellington in Spain. ^ have said that the Indians came down in
solid columns, and displayed in the form of a crescent; and what was
most wonderful, there were large squares of cavalry resting upon
the points of the curve, which squares were supported again by
88 HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS.
other columns fifteen deep, extending back through the woods and
over a swamp three-quarters of a mile, which again rested on the
main bodv of Black Hawk's army bivouacked upon the banks of the
Kishwakee. It was a terrible and a glorious sight to see the tawny
warriors as they rode along our flanks attempting to outflank us,
with the g.ittering moonbeams glistening from their polished blades
and burnished spears. It was a sight well calculated to strike con-
sternation in the stoutest and boldest heart; and accordingly our
men soon began to break in small squads, for tall timber. In a
very little time the rout became general, the Indians were soon
upon our flanks and threatened the destruction of our entire detach-
ment. About this time Maj. Stillman, Col, Stephenson, Maj.
Perkins, Capt. Adams, ]\Ir. Hackelton, and myself, with some
others, threw ourselves into the rear to rally the fugitives and pro-
tect the retreat. But in a short time all my companions fell
bravely fighting hand-to-hand with the savage enemy, and I alone
was left upon the field of battle. About this time I discovered not
far to the left a corps of horsemen which seemed to be in tolerable
order. I immediately deployed to the left, when, leaning down and
placing my body in a recumbent posture upon the mane of my
horse so as to bring the heads of the horsemen between my eye
and the horizon, I discovered by the light of the moon that they
were jrentlemen who did not wear hats, bv which token I knew thev
were no friends of mine. I therefore made a retrogade movement
and recovered my position, where I remained some time meditating
what further I could do in the service of ray country, when a ran-
dom ball came whistling by my ear and plainly whispered to me,
' Stranger, you have no further business here.' Upon hearing this I
followed the example of my companions in arms, and broke for
tall timber, and the way I ran was not a little."
For a long time afterward Maj. Stillnan and his men were sub-
jects of ridicule and merriment, which was as undeserving as their
expedition was disastrous. Stillman's defeat spread consternation
throughout the State and nation. The number of Indians was
greatly exaggerated, and the name of Black Hawk carried with it
associations of great military talent, savage cunning and cruelty.
ASSAULT ON APPLE RIVER FORT.
A regiment sent to spy out the country between Galena and Rock
Island was surprised by a party of seventy Indians, and was on the
HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS. 89
point of being thrown into disorder when Gen. Whiteside, then
serving as a private, shouted out that he would shoot the first man
who should turn his back to the enemy. Order being restored, the
battle began. At its very outset Gen. Whiteside shot the leader of
the Indians, who thereupon commenced a hasty retreat.
In June, 1832, Black Hawk, with a band of 150 warriors, attack-
ed the Apple Hiver Fort, near Galena, defended by 25 men. This
fort, a mere palisade of logs, was erected to afford protection to the
miners. For fifteen consecutive hours the garrison had to sustain
the assault of the savage enemy ; but knowing very well that no
quarter would be given them, they fought with such fury and des-
peration that the Indians, aft€r losing many of their best warriors,
were compelled to retreat.
Another party of eleven Indians murdered two men near Fort
Hamilton. They were afterwards overtaken by a company of
twenty men and every one of them was killed.
ROCK RIVER EXPEDITION.
A new regiment, under the command of Gen. Atkinson, assem-
bled on the banks of the Illinois in the latter part of June. Maj.
Dement, with a small party, was sent out to reconnoittr the move-
ments of a large body of Indians, whose endeavors to surround him
made it advisable fur him to retire. Upon hearing of this engage-
ment. Gen. Atkinson sent a detachment to intercept the Indians,
while he with the main body of his army, moved north to meet the
Indians under Black Hawk. They moved slowly and cautiously
through the country, passed through Turtle village, and marched
up along Bock river. On their arrival news was brought of the
discovery of the main trail of the Indians. Considerable search
was made, but they were unable to discover any vestige of Indians
save two who had shot two soldiers the day previous.
Hearing that Black Hawk was encamped on Rock river, at the
Manitou village, they resolved at once to advance upon the enemy;
but in the execution of their design they met with opposition from
their officers and men. The officers of Gen. Henry handed to him
a written protest; but he, a man equal to any emergency, ordered
the officers to be arrested and escorted to Gen. Atkinson. Within
a few minutes after the stern order was given, the officers all collected
around the General's quarters, many of them with tears in their
90 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
eyes, pledging themselves that if forgiven they would return to duty
and never do the like again. The General rescinded the order, and
they at once resumed duty.
THE BATTLE OF BAD-AXE.
Gen. Henry marched on the 15th of July in pursuit of the
Indians, reaching Ruck river after three days' journey, where he
learned Black Hnwk was encamped further up the river. On July
19th the troops were ordered to commence their march. After
havino; made tiftv miles, tliev were overtaken l>y a terrible thunder-
storm which lasted all night. Nothing cooled, however, in their
courage and zeal, they marched again lifty miles the next day,
encamping near the place where the Indiana had encamped the
night before. Hurrying along as fast as they could, the infantry
keeping up an equal pace with the mounted force, the troops on the
morning of the 21st crossed the river connecting two of the four
lakes, by which the Indians had been endeavoring to escape. They
found, on their way, the ground strewn with kettles and articles of
baggage, which the haste of their retreat had obliged the Indians
to throw away. The troops, inspired with new ardor, advanced so
rapidly that at noon they fell in with the rear guard of the Indians.
Those who closely pursued them were saluted with a sudden
lire of musketry by a body of Indians who had concealed them-
selves in the high grass of the prairie. A most desperate charge
was made upon the Indians, who, unable to resist, retreated
obliquely, in order to out-flank the volunteers on the right; but the
latter charged the Indians in their ambush, and expelled them
from their thickets at the point of the bayonet, and dispersed tliera.
Night set in and the battle ended, having cost the Indians ^% of
their bravest men, while the loss of the Illinoisans amounted to but
one killed and 8 wounded.
Soon after this battle Gens. Atkinson and Henry joined their
forces and pursued the Indians. Gen. Henry struck the main trail,
left his horses behind, formed an advance guard of eight men,
and marched forward upon their trail. When these eight men
came within sight of the river, they were suddenly tired upon and
five of them killed, the remaining three maintaining their ground
till Gen. Henry came up. Then the Indians, charged upon with
the bayonet, fell back upon their main force. The battle now
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 91
became general; the Indians fonglit with desperate valor, but were
furiously assailed by the volunteers with their bayonets, cutting
many of the Indians to pieces and driving the rest into the river.
Those who escaped from being drowned took refuge on an island. On
hearing the frequent discharge of musketry, indicating a general
engagement, Gen. Atkinson abandoned the pursuit of the twenty
Indians under Black Hawk himself, and hurried to the scene of
action, where he ariivcd too late to take part in the battle. He
immediately forded the river with his troops, the water reaching
up to their necks, and landed on the island where the Indians had
secreted themselves. The soldiers rushed upon the Indians, killed
several of them, took others prisoner, and chased the rest into
the river, where they were either drowned or shot before reaching
the opposite shore. Thus ended the battle, the Indians losing 300^
besides 50 prisoners; the whites but 17 killed and 12 wounded.
/
INCIDENTS OF THE BATTLE.
Many painful incidents occurred during this battle. A Sac
woman, the sister of a warrior of some notoriety, found herself in
the thickest of the fight, but at length succeeded in reaching the
river, when, keeping her infant child safe in its blankets by means
of her teeth, she plunged into the water, seized the tail of a horse
with her hands whose rider was swimming the stream, and was
drawn safely across. A young squaw during the battle was stand-
ing in the grass a short distance from the American line, holding
her child — a little girl of four years — in her arms. In this posi-
tion a ball struck the right arm of the child, shattering the bone,
and passed into the breast of the young mother, instantly killing
her. She fell upon the child and confined it to the ground till the
Indians were driven from that part of the field. Gen. Anderson,
of the United States army, hearing its cries, went to the spot, took
it from under the dead body and carried it to the surgeon to have
its wound dressed. The arm was amputated, and during the oper-
ation the half-starved child did not cry, but sat quietly eating a
hard piece of biscuit. It was sent to Prairie du Chien, where it
entirely recovered.
BLACK HAWK CAPTURED.
Black Hawk, with his twenty braves, retreated up the Wisconsin,
river. The Winnebagoes, desirous of securing the friendship of
92 HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS.
the whites, went in pursuit and captured and delivered them to
Gen. Street, the United States Indian agent. Among the prisoners
were the son of Black Hawk and the prophet of the tribe. These
with Black Hawk were taken to Washington, D. C, and soon con-
signed as prisoners at Fortress Monroe.
At the interview Black Hawk had with the President, he closed
his speech delivered on the occasion in the following words: " We
did not expect to conquer the whites. They have too many houses,
too many men. I took up the hatchet, for my part, to revenge
injuries which my people could no longer endure. Had I borne
them longer without striking, my people would have said, • Black
Hawk is a woman; he is too old to be a chief; he is no Sac' These
reflections caused me to raise the war-whoop. I say no more. It
is known to you. Keokuk once was here; you took him by the
hand, and when he wished to return to his home, you were willing.
Black Hawk expects, like Keokuk, he shall be permitted to return
too."
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH OF BLACK HAWK.
Black Hawk, or Ma-ka-tai-me-she-kia-kiah, was born in the prin-
cipal Sac village, near the junction of Rock river with tlie Missis-
sippi, in the year 1767. His father's name was Py-e-sa. Black
Hawk early distinguished himself as a warrior, and at the age of
fifteen was permitted to paint, and was ranked among the braves.
About the year 1783 he went on an expedition against the enemies
of his nation, the Osages, one of whom he killed and scalped; and
for this deed of Indian bravery he was permitted to join in the
scalp dance. Three or four years afterward he, at the head of two
hundred braves, went on another expedition against the Osages, to
avenge the murder of some women and children belonging to his
own tribe. Meeting an equal number of Osage warriors, a fierce
battle ensued in which the latter tribe lost one-half their number.
The Sacs lost only about nineteen warriors. He next attacked the
Cherokees for a similar cause. In a severe battle with them near
the present city of St. Louis his father was slain, and Black Hawk,
taking possession of the " Medicine Bag," at once announced him-
self chief of the Sac nation. He had now conquered the Cherokees,
and about the year 1800, at the head of five hundred Sacs and
Foxes and a hundred lowas, he waged war against the Osage
HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS. do
nation, and subdued it. For two years he battled successfully with
other Indian tribes, all of which he conquered.
The year following the treaty at St. Louis, in 1804, the United
States Government erected a fort near the head of Des Moines
Rapids, called Fort Edwards. This seemed to enrage Black Hawk,
who at once determined to capture Fort Madison, standing on the
west side of the Mississippi, above the mouth of the Des Moines.
The fort was garrisoned by about fifty men. Here he was defeated.
The difficulties with the British Government arose about this time,
and the war of 1812 followed. That government, extending aid to
the Western Indians, induced them to remain hostile to the Ameri-
cans. In August, 1812, Black Hawk, at the head of about five
hundred braves, started to join the British forces at Detroit, passing
on his way the site of Chicago, where the famous Fort Dearborn
massacre had a few days before been perpetrated. Of his con-
nection with the British but little is known.
In the early part of 1815, the Indians w^est of the Mississippi
were notified that peace had been declared between the United
States and England, and nearly all hostilities had ceased. Black
Hawk did not sign any treaty, however, until May of the following
year. From the time of signing this treaty, in 1816, until the
breaking out of the Black Hawk war, he and his band passed their
time in the common pursuits of Indian life.
Ten years before the commencement of this war, the Sac and
Fox Indians were urged to move to the west of the Mississippi.
All were agreed, save the band known as the British Band, of which
Black Hawk was leader. He strongly objected to the removal, and
was induced to comply only after being threatened by the Govern-
ment. This action, and various others on the part of the white
settlers, provoked Black Hawk and Iris band to attempt the capture
of his native village, now occupied by the whites. The war fol-
lowed. He and his actions were undoubtedly misunderstood, and
had his wishes been complied with at the beginning of the struggle,
much bloodshed would have been prevented.
BLACK HAWK SET AT LIBERTY.
By order of the President, Black Hawk and his companions,
who were in confinement at Fortress Monroe, were set free on the
4th day of June, 1833. Before leaving the fort Black Hawk
04 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
made the following farewell speech to the commander, which is not
onlj eloquent but shows that within his chest of steel there beat a
heart keenly alive to the emotions of gratitude:
" Brother, I have come on my own part, and in belialf of my
companions, to bid you farewell. Our great father has at length
been pleased to permit us to return to our hunting grounds. We
have buried the tomahawk, and the sound of the ritle hereafter will
only bring death to the deer and the buftalo. Brothers, you have
treated the red man very kindly. Tour squaws have made them
presents, and you have given them plenty to eat and drink. The
memory of your friendship will remain till the Great Spirit says it
is time for Black Hawk to sing his death song. Brother, your
houses are as numerous as the leaves on the trees, and 3'our young
warriors like the sands upon the shore of the big lake that rolls
before us. The red man has but few houses and few warriors, but
the red man has a heart which throbs as warmly as the heart of his
white brother. The Great Spirit has given us our hunting grounds,
and the skin of the deer which we kill there is his favorite, for its
color is white, and this is the emblem of peace. This hunting
dress and these feathers of the eagle are white. Accept them, my
brother. I have given one like this to the "White Otter. Accept it as
a memorial of Black Hawk. When he is far away this will serve
to remind you of him. May the Great Spirit bless you and your
children. Farewell."
After their release from prison they were conducted, in charge
of Major Gai-land, through some of the principal cities, that
tliev might witness the power of the United States and learn
their own inability to cope with them in war. Great multitudes
flocked to see them wherever thev were taken, and the attention
paid them rendered their progress through the country a triumphal
procession, iistead of the trausportation of prisoners by an oflicer.
At Rock Island the prisoners were given their liberty, amid 'great
and impressive ceremony. In 1S38 Black Hawk built him a
dwelling near Des Moines, Iowa, and furnished it alter the manner
of the whites, and engaged in agricultural pursuits and hunting and
fishino". Here, with his wife, to whom he was greatly at^ached, he
passed the few remaining days of his life. To his credit, it may be
said, that Black Hawk remained true to his wife, and served her
HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS. 95
with a devotion uncommon among Indians, living with her up-
ward of forty years.
BLACK hawk's DEATH AND B"D"RIAL.
At all times when Black Hawk visited the whites he was
received with marked attention. He was an honored guest at the
old settlers' re- union in Lee county, Illinois, at some of their
meetings and receiv^ed many tokens of esteem. In September,
1838, while on his way to Rock Island to receive his annuity from
the Government, he contracted a severe cold which resulted in a
fatal attack of bilious fever, and terminated his life October 3.
After his death, lie was dressed in the uniform presented to him by
the President while in Washington, He was buried in a grave six
feet in depth, situated upon a beautiful eminence. The body was
placed in the middle of the grave, in a sitting posture upon a seat
constructed for the purpose. On his left side ths cane given him
by Henry Clay was placed upright, with his right hand resting
upon it. Thus, after a long, adventurous and shifting life, Black
Hawk was gathered to his fathers.
FROM 18;U TO 1842.
INTEKXAL IMPROVEMENTS.
'No sooner was the Black Hawk war concluded than settlers
began rapidly to pour into the northern part of Illinois, now free
from Indian depredations. Chicago, from a trading post, had
grown into a commercial center, and was rapidly coming into
prominence. I
At the general election in 1831 Joseph Duncan was chosen
Governor, by a handsome majority. His principal opponent was
ex-Lieutenant Governor Kinney. A reckless and uncontrollable
desire for internal public improvements seized the minds of the
people. In his message to the Legislature, in 1835, Gov. Duncan
said: " When we look abroad and see the extensive lines of inter-
communication penetrating almost every section of our sister States;
when we see the canal boat and the locomotive bearinsr with seem-
ing triumph the rich productions of the interior to the rivers, lakes
and ocean, almost annihilating time, burthen and space, what
patriot bi)som does not beat higli with a laudable ambition to give
Illinois her full share of those advantages which are adorning her
9Q HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
sister States, and which a magnificent Providence seems to invite
by a wonderful adaptation of our whole country to such improve-
ments?"
STUPENDOUS SYSTEM OF IMPROVEMENTS INAUGURATED.
The Legislature responded to the ardent words of the Govepfior,
and enacted a system of internal improvements without a parallel
in the grandeur of its conception. They 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 railroad, or river or canal, and
they were to be comforted and compensated by the free distribution
of $200,000 among them. To inflate this balloon beyond credence, it
was ordered that work should commence on both ends of each of these
railroads and rivers, and at each river-crossing, all at the same time.
This provision, which has been called the crowning folly of the
entire system, was the result of those jealous combinations ema-
nating from the fear that advantages might accrue to one section
over another in the commencement and completion of the works.
We can appreciate better, perhaps, the magnitude of this grand
system by reviewing a few figures. The debt authorized for these
improvements in the first instance was $10,230,000. But this, as
it was soon found, was based upon estimates at least too low by
half. This, as we readily see, committed the State to a liability of
over $20,000,000, equivalent to $200,000,000, at the present time,
with over ten times the population and more than ten times the
wealth.
Siich stupendous undertakings by the State naturally engendered
the fever of speculation among individuals. That particular form
known as the town-lot fever assumed the malignant type at first in
Chicago, from whence it spead over the entire State and adjoining
States. It was an epidemic. It cut up men's farms without regard
to -locality, and cut up the purses of the purchasers without regard
to consequences. It was estimated that building lots enough were
sold in Indiana alone to accommodate every citizen then in the
United States.
Chicago, which in 1830 was a small trading-post, had within a
few years grown into a city. This was the starting point of the
wonderful and marvelous career of that city. Improvements,
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 97
unsurpassed by individual efforts in the annals of the world, were
then begun and have been maintained to this day. Tliough visited
by the terrible fire fiend and the accumulations of years swept
away in a night, yet she has arisen, and to-day is the best built city
in the world. Heports of the rapid advance of property in Chicago
spread to the East, and thousands poured into her borders, bringing
money, enterprise and industry. Every ship that left her port
carried with it maps of splendidly situated towns and additions,
and every vessel that returned was laden with immigrants. It was
said at the time that the staple articles of Illinois export were town
plots, and that there M'as danger of crowding the State with towns
to the exclusion of land fur agriculture.
ILLINOIS AND MICHIGAN CANAL.
The Illinois and Michigan canal again received attention. This
enterprise is one of the most important in the early development
of Illinois, on account of its magnitude and cost, and forming
as it does the connecting link between the great chain of lakes and
the Illinois and Mississippi rivers. Gov. Bond, the first Governor,
recommended in his first message the building of the canal. In
1821 the Legislature appropriated $10,000 for surveying the route.
This work was performed by two young men, who estimated the
cost at $000,000 or $700,000. It cost, however, when completed,
$8,000,000. In 1825 a law was passed to incorporate the Canal
Company, but no stock was sold. In 1826, upon the solicitation of
Daniel P. Cook, Congressman from this State, Congress gave
800,000 acres of land on the line of the work. In 1828 commis-
sioners were appointed, and work commenced witli a new survey
and new estimates. In 1834-5 the work was again pushed forward,
and continued nntil 1818, when it was completed.
PANIC — REPUDIATION ADVOCATED.
Bonds of the State were recklessly disposed of both in the East
and in Europe. Work was commenced on various lines of railroad,
but none were ever completed. On the Northern Cross Railroad,
from Meredosia east eight miles, the first locomotive that ever
turned a wlieel in the great valley of the Mississippi, was run.
The date of this remarkable event was Nov. 8, 1838. Large suras
of money were being expended with no assurance of a revenue,
98 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
and consequently, in 1S40, the Legislature repealed the improve-
Dient laws passed three years previously, nut, however, until the
State had accumulated a debt of nearly $15,00(',0U0. Tiius fe 1,
after a short but eventful life, by the hands of its creator, the most
stupendous, extravagant and almost ruinous folly of a grand sj'S-
tem of internal improvements that any civil community, perhaps,
ever engaged in. The State banks failed, specie was scarce, an
enormous debt was accumulated, the interest of which could not
be paid, people were disappointed in the accumulation of wealth,
and real estate was worthless. All this had a tendency to create a
desire to throw off the heavy burden of State debt by repudiation.
This was boldly advocated by some leading men. The fair fame
and name, however, of the State was not tarnished by repudiation.
Men, true, honest, and able, were placed at the head of affairs; and
thouorh the hours were dark and e-oomv, and the times most trv-
ing, yet our grand old State was brought through and prospered,
until to-day, after the expenditure of millions for public improve-
ments and for carrying on the late war, she has, at present, a debt
of only about S3uO,000.
MAETYR FOR LIB/IRTY.
The year 1S37 is memorable for the death of the first martyr for
liberty, and the abolishment of American slavery, in the State.
Elijah P. Lovejoy was shot by a mob in Alton, on the night of the
7th of November of that year, lie was at the time editor of the
Alton Obi<ervef\ and advocated anti-slavery principles in its
columns. For this practice three of his presses had been destroyed.
On the arrival of the fourth the trasredv occurred which cost him
his life. In anticipation of its arrival a series of meetings were
held ill which the friends of freedom and of slavery were represented.
The object was to effect a compromise, but it was one in which
liberty was to make concessions to oppression. In a speech made
at one of these meetings, Lovejoy said: ** !Mr. Chairman, what
have I to compromise? If freely to forgive those who have so greatly
injured me; if to pray for their temporal and eternal happiness; if
still to wish for the prosperity of your city and State, notwith-
standing the indignities I have suffered in them, — if this be the
compromise intended, then do I willingly make it. I do not admit
that it is the business of any body of men to say whether I shall
LlCi.iAlli f
'--- Z I"/..
NO, 5^
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 101
or shall not publish a paper in this city. That right was given to
ine hy my Creator, and is solemnly guaranteed by the Constitution
of the United States and of this State. But if by compromise is
meant that 1 shall cease from that which duty requires of me, I
cannot make it, and the reason is, that I fear God more than man.
It is also a very different question, whether 1 shall, voluntarily or
at the request of ray friends, yield up my position, or whether
I shall forsake it at the hands of a mob. The former I am readv at
all times to do when circumstances require it, as I will never put
my personal wishes or interests in competition with the cause of
that Master whose minister I am. But the latter, be assured I
never will do. You have, as lawyers say, made a false issue. There
are no two parties between whom there can be a compromise. I
plant myself down on my unquestionable rights, and the ques-
tion to be decided is, whether I shall be protected in those rights.
You may hang me, as the mob hung the individuals at Vicksburg;
3'ou may burn me at the stake, as they did old Mcintosh at St.
Louis; or, you may tar and feather me, or throw me into the Mis-
sissippi as you have threatened -to do; but you cannot disgrace me.
I, and I alone, can disgrace myself; and the deepest of all disgrace
would be at a time like this to deny my Maker by forsaking his
cause. He died for me, and I were most unworthy to bear his
name should I refuse, if need be, to die for him.''^ Not long
afterward Mr. Lovejoy was shot. His brother Owen, being j)res-
ent on the occasion, kneeled down on the spot beside the corpse,
and sent up to God, in the hearing of that very mob, one of the
most eloquent prayers ever listened to by mortal ear. He was bold
enough to pray to God to take signal vengeance on the infernal
institution of slavery, and lie then and there dedicated his life to
the work of overthrowing it, and hoped to see the day when slavery
existed no more in this nation. He died, March 24, 1864, nearly
three months after the Emancipation Proclamation of President
Lincoln took effect. Thus he lived to see his most earnest and
devout prayer answered. But few men in the nation rendered bet-
ter service in overthrowing the institution of slavery than Elijah
P. and Owen Lov^ejoy.
CARLIN ELECTED GOVERNOR.
Thomas Carlin, Democrat, was elected Governor in 1838, over
Cyrus Edwards, Whig. In 1842 Adam W. Snyder was nominated
102 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
for Governor on the Democratic ticket, bnt died before election.
Thomas Ford was placed in nomination, and was elected, ex-Gov-
ernor Duncan being his opponent.
PPtAIPJE PIRATES.
The northern part of the State also had its mob experiences, but
of an entirely different nature from the one just recounted. There
has always hovered around the frontier of civilization bold, desper-
ate men, who prey upon the unprotected settlers rather than gain
a livelihood by honest toil. Theft, robber\" and mui'der were car-
ried on by regularly organized bands in Ogle, Lee, Winnebago and
DeKalb counties. The leaders of these gangs of cut-throats were
among the first settbrs of that portion of the State, and conse-
quently had the choice of location. Among the most prominent of
the leaders were John Driscoll, William and David, his sons; John
Brodie and three of his sons; Samuel Aikens and three of his sons;
William K. BriJjre and Norton B. Bovce.
These were the representative characters, those who planned
and controlled the movements of the combination, concealed them
when danger threatened, nursed them when sick, rested them when
worn by fatigue and forced marches, furnished hiding places for
their stolen booty, shared in the spoils, and, under cover of darkness
and intricate and devious ways of travel, known onlj' to themselves
and subordinates, transferred stolen horses from station to station;
for it came to be known as a well-established fact that they had
stations, and accents, and watchmen scattered throughout the conn-
try at convenient distances, and signals and pass-words to assist
and orovern them in all their nefarious transactions.
Ogle county, particular!}-, seemed to be a favorite and chosen
field for the operations of these outlaws, who could not be convicted
for their crimes. By getting some of their number on the juries,
by producing hosts of witnesses to sustain their defense by per-
jured evidence, and by changing the venue from one county to
another, and by continuances from term to term, they nearly always
managed to be acquitted. At last these depredations became too
common for longer endurance; patience ceased to be a virtue, and
determined desperation seized the minds of honest men, and they
resolved that if there were no statute laws that could protect them
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 103
against the ravages of thieves, robbers and counterfeiters, they
vt^ould protect themselves. It was a desperate resolve, and desper-
ately and bloodily executed,
BURNINO OF OGLE COUNTY COURT-HOUSE.
At the Spring term of court, 1841, seven of the "Pirates of the
Prairie," as they were called, were confined in the Ogle county jail
to await trial. Preparatory to holding court, the judge and lawyers
assembled at Oregon in their new court-house, which had just
been completed. Near it stood the county jail in which were the
prisoners. The "Pirates" assembled Sunday night and set the
court-house on tire, in the hope that as the prisoners would have to
be removed from the jail, they might, in the hurry and confusion
of the people in attending to the fire, make their escape. The
whole population were awakened that dark and stormy night, to
see their new court editico enwrapped in flames. Although the
building was entirely consumed, none of the prisoners escaped.
Three of them were tried, convicted and sent to the penitentiary
for a year. They had, however, contrived to get one of their num-
ber on the jury, who would not agree to a verdict until threatened
to be lynclied. The others obtained a change of venue and were
not convicted, and finally they all broke jail and escaped.
Thus it was that the law was inadequate to the protection of the
people. The best citizens held a meeting and entered into a solemn
compact with each other to rid the country of the desperadoes that
infested it. They were regularly organized and known as " Regu-
lators." They resolved to notify all suspected parties to leave the
country within a given time; if they did not comply, they would
be severely dealt with. Their first victim was a man named Hurl,
who was suspected of having stolen his neighbor's horse. lie was
ordered to strip, his hands were tied, when thirty-six lashes of a
raw-hide were applied to his bare back. The next was a man
named Daggett, formerly a Baptist preacher. He was sentenced
to receive five hundred lashes on his bare back. He was stripped,
and all was ready, when his beautiful daughter rushed into the
midst of the men, begging for mercy for her father. Her appeals,
with Daggett's promise to leave the country immediately, secured
his release. That night, new crimes having been discovered, he
was taken out and whipped, after which he left the country, never
again to be heard from.
104 HISTORY OF ILLIKOIS.
The friends and comrades of the men who had heen whipped
were fearfully enraged, and swore eternal and bloody vengeance.
Eighty of them assembled one night soon alter, and laid plans to
visit White Kock and murder every man, woman and child in that
hamlet. They started on this bloody mission, but were ])revailed
upon by one of their number to disband. Their coming, however,
had been anticipated, and every man and boy in the town was
armed to protect himself and his family.
CAMPBELL KILLED THE MURDERERS SHOT.
John Campbell, Captain of the '• Hegulators," received a letter
from William Driscoll, filled with most direful threats, — not only
threatening Camjjbeirs life, but the life of any one who should
oppose their murderous, thieving operations. Soon after the re-
ceipt of this letter, two hundred of the " Regulators" marched to
DriscoU's and ordered him to leave the county within twenty days,
but he refused to comply with the order. One Sunday evening,
just after this, Campbell was shot down in his own door-yard by
David Driscoll. He fell in the arms of his wife, at which time
Taylor Driscoll raised his rifle and pointed it toward her, but low-
ered it without firing.
Xews of this terrible crime spread like wild-fire. The very air
was filled with threats and vengeance, and nothing but the lives of
the murderous gang would pay the penalty. Old John Driscoll
was arrested, was told to bid his family good-bye, and then with
his son went out to his death. The "Hegulators," numbering 111,
formed a large circle, and gave the Driscolls a fair hearing. They
were found guilty, and the " Regulators" divided into two ''death
divisions," — one, consisting of fifty-six, with rifles dispatched the
father, the other fifty-five riddled and shattered the body of the
son with balls from as many guns. The measures thus inaugu-
rated to free the country from the dominion of outlaws was a last
desperate resort, and proved effectual.
MORMOX WAR.
In April, 1840, the "Latter- Day Saints," or Mormons, came in
large numbers to Illinois and purchased a tract of land on the east
side of the Mississippi river, about ten miles above Keokuk. Here
they commenced building the city of Xauvoo. A more picturesque
or eligible site for a city could not have been selected.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 105
The origin, rapid development and prosperity of this religious
sect are the most remarkable and instructive historical events of
the present century. That an obscure individual, without money,
education, or respectability, should persuade hundreds of thousands
of people to believe him inspired of God, and cause a book, con-
temptible as a literary production, to be received as a continuation
of the sacred revelation, appears almost incredible; yet in less than
half a century, the disciples of this obscure individual have in-
creased to hundreds of thousands; have founded a State in the dis-
tant wilderness, and compelled the Government of the United
States to practically recognize them as an independent people,
THE FOUNDER OF MORMONISM.
The founder of Mormonism was Joseph Smith, a native of Ver-
mont, who emigrated while quite young with his father's family to
western New York. Here his youth was spent in idle, vagabond
life, roaming the woods, dreaming of buried treasures, and in en-
deavoring to learn the art of finding them by the twisting of a
forked stick in his hands, or by looking through enchanted stones.
Both he and his father became famous as " water wizards," always
ready to point out the spot where wells might be dug and water
found. Such was the character of the young profligate when he
made the acquaintance of Sidney Rigdon, a person of considerable
talent and information, who had conceived the design of founding
a new religion. A religious romance, written by Mr. Spaulding, a
Presbyterian preacher of Ohio, then dead, suggested the idea, and
finding in Smith the requisite duplicity and cunning to reduce it
to practice, it was agreed that he should act as prophet; and the
two devised a story that gold plates had been found buried in the
earth containing a record inscribed on them in unknown characters,
which, when deciphered by the power of inspiration, gave the his-
tory of the ten lost tribes of Israel.
ATTEMPT TO ARREST JOE SMITH.
After their settlement in and about Nauvoo, in Hancock county,
great depredations were committed by them on the "Gentiles."
The Mormons had been received from Missouri with great kind-
ness by the people of this State, and every possible aid granted
them. The depredations committed, however, soon made them
106 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
odions, when the question of getting rid of them was agitated. In
the fall of 18il, the Governor of Missouri made a demand on Gov.
Carlin for the arrest and delivery of Joe Smith as a fugitive from
justice. An executive warrant issued for that purpose was placed
iu the hands of an a^ent to be executed, but was returned without
being complied with. Soon afterward the Governor handed the
same writ to his agent, who this time succeeded in arresting Joe
Smith, lie was, however, discharged by Judge Douglas, upon the
grounds that the writ upon which he had been arrested had been
once returned before it was executed, and was functus officio. In
184:2 Gov. Carlin aijain issued his writ, Joe Smith was arrested
again, and again escaped. Thus it will be seen it was impossible
to reach and punish the leader of this people, who had been driven
from Missouri because of their stealing, murdering and unjust
dealing, and came to Illinois but to continue their depredations.
Emboldened by success, the Mormons became more arrogant and
overbearing. Many people began to believe that they were about
to set up a separate government for themselves in defiance of the
laws of the State. Owners of property stolen in other counties
made pursuit into Nauvoo, and were fined by the Mormon courts
for daring to seek their property in the holy city. But that wliich
made it more certain than anything else that the Mormons con-
templated a separate government, was that about this time they
petitioned Congress to establish a territorial government for them
in Nauvoo.
ORIGIN OF POLYGAMY.
To crown the whole folly of the Mormons, in the Spring of 1844
Joe Smith announced himself as a candidate for President of the
United States, and many of his followers were confident he would
be elected. He next caused himself to be anointed king and
priest, and to give character to his pretensions, ho declared his
lineage in an unbroken line from Joseph, the son of Jacob, and
that of his wife from some other important personage of the ancient
Hebrews. To strengthen his political power he also instituted a
body of police styled the "Danite band," who were sworn to pro-
tect his person and obey his orders as the commands of God. A
female order previously existing in the church, called "Spiritual
wives," was modified so as to suit the licentiousness of the prophet.
A doctrine was revealed that it was impossible for a woman to get
HISTOliY OF ILLINOIS. 107
to heaven except as the wife of a Mormon elder; that each elder
might raarrj as many women as he could maintain, and that any
femrile might be sealed to eternal life by becoming their concubine.
Tiiis licentiousness, the origin of polygamy in that churcii, they
endeavored to justify by an appeal to Abraham, Jacob and other
favorites of God in former ages of the world.
JOE SMITH AS A TYRANT.
Smith soon began to play the tyrant over his people. Among
the Hrst acts of this sort was an attempt to take the wife of Wil-
liam Law, one of his most talented disciples, and make her his
spiritual wife. He established, without authority, a recorder's
office, and an office to issue marriage licenses, lie proclaimed that
none could deal in real estate or sell liquor but himself. lie
ordered a printing office demolished, and in many ways controlled
the freedom and business of the Mormons. Not only did he stir up
some of the Mormons, but by his reckless disregard for the laws of
the land raised up opposition on every hand. It was believed that
he instructed the Danite band, which he had chosen as the ministers
of his vengeance, that no blood, except that of the church, was to
be regarded as sacred, if it contravened the accomplishment of his
object. It was asserted that he inculcated the legality of perjury
and other crimes, if committed to advance the cause of true believ-
ers; that God had given the world and all it contained to his saints,
and since they were kept out of their rightful inheritance by force,
it was no moral offense to get possession of it by stealing. It was
reported that an establishment existed in Nauvoo for the manufac-
ture of counterfeit mono}', and that a set of outlaws was maintained
for the purpose of putting it in circulation. Statements were cir-
culated to the effect that a reward was offered for the destruction of
the Warsaw Signal, an anti-Mormon paper, and that Mormons dis-
persed over the country threatened all persons who offered to assist
the constable in the execution of the law, with the destruction of
their property and the murder of their families. There were rumors
also afloat that an alliance had been formed with the Western
Indians, and in case of war they would be nsed in murdering their
enemies. In short, if only one-half of these reports were true the
Mormons must have been the most infamous people that ever ex-
isted.
108 HISTORY OB' ILLINOIS.
MILITARY FOKCES ASSEMBLING.
William Law, one of the proprietors of the printing-press
destroyed by Smitii, went to Carthage, the countj'-seat, and
obtained warrants for the airest of Smith and tlie members of the
City Council, and others connected with the destruction of the
press. Some of the parties having been arrested, but discharged
by the authorities in Nauvoo, a convention of citizens assembled at
Carthage and appointed a committee to wait upon the Governor for
the purpose of procuring military assistance to enforce the law.
The Governor visited Carthage in person. Previous to his arrival
the militia had been called out and armed forces commenced assem-
blinir in Carthao-e and Warsaw to enforce the service of civil process.
All of them, however, signified a willingness to co-operate M'itli the
Governor in preserving order. A constable and ten men were then
• sent to make the arrest. In the meantime, Smith declared martial
law; his followers residing in the country were summoned to his
assistance; the Legion was assembled and under arms, and the
entire city was one great military encampment.
THE SMITHS ARRESTED.
The prophet, his brother Iliram, the members of the City Coun-
cil and others, surrendered themselves at Carthage June 24, 1845,
on the charge of riot. All entered into recognizance before a Jus-
tice of the Peace to appear at court, and were discharged. A new
writ, however, was immediately issued and served on the two
Smiths, and both were arrested and thrown into prison. The
citizens had assembled from Hancock, Schuj-ler and McDonough
counties, armed and ready to avenge the outrages that had been
committed by the Mormons. Great excitement prevailed at Car-
thage. The force assembled at that place amounted to 1,200 njen,
and about 500 assembled at Warsaw. Nearly all were anxious to
march into Nauvoo. This measure was supposed to be necessary
to search for counterfeit money and the apparatus to make it, and
also to strike a salutary terror into the Mormon people by an exhi-
bition of the force of the State, and thereby prevent future out-
rages, murders, robberies, burnings, and the like. Tlie 27th of
June was appointed for the march; but Gov. Ford, who at the
time was in Carthage, apprehended trouble if the militia should
attempt to invade Nauvoo, disbanded the troops, retaining only a
guard to the jail. /
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 109
JOE SMITH AND HIS BROTHER KILLED.
Gov. Ford went to Nauvuo on the 27th. The same morning
about 200 men from Warsaw, manj? being disguised, hastened to
Cartilage. On learning that one of the companies left as a guard
had disbanded, and the other stationed 150 yards from the jail while
eight men were left to guard the prisoners, a communication was
soon established between the Warsaw troops and the guard; and it
was arranged that the guard should have their guns charged with
blank cartridges and lire at the assailants when they attempted to
enter the jail. The conspirators came up, jumped the fence around
the jail, were fired upon bj the guard, which, according to arrange-
ment, was overpowered, and the assailants entered the prison, to
the door of the room where the two prisoners were confined. An
attempt was made to break open the door; but Joe Smith, being
armed with a pistol, fired several times as the door was bursted
open, and three of the assailants were wounded. At the same time
several shots were fired into the room, by some of which John
Taylor, a friend of the Smiths, received four wounds, and Hiram
Smith was instantlj^ killed. Joe Smith, severely wounded, attempt-
ed to escape by jumping out of a second-story window, but was so
stunned by the fall that he was unable to rise. In this position he
was dispatched by balls shot through his body. Thus fell Joe
Smith, the most successful imposter of modern times. Totally ignor-
ant of almost every fact in science, as well as in law, he made up in
constructiveness and natural cunning whatever in him was want-
ing of instruction.
CONSTERNATION AT QUINCY.
Great consternation prevailed among the anti-Mormons at
Carthage, after the killing of the Smiths. They expected the Mor-
mons would be so enraged on hearing of the death of their leaders
that they would come down in a body, armed and equipped, to
seek revenge upon the populace at Carthage, Messengers were
dispatched to various places for help in case of an attack. The
women and children were moved across the river for safety, A
committee was sent to Quincy and early the following morning,
at the ringing of the bells, a large concourse of people assembled
to devise means of defense. At this meeting, it was reported that
the Mormons attempted to rescue the Smiths; that a party of Mis-
sourians and others had killed them to prevent their escape; that
110 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
the Governor and his party were at JNaiivoo at the time when intel-
liu^ence of the fact was brought there; that they had been attacked
by the Nauvoo Legion, and had retreated to a house where they
were closely besieged; that the Governor had sent out word that
he could maintain his position for two days, and would be certain
to be massacred if assistance did not arrive by that time. It is
unnecessary to say that this entire story was fabricated. It was
put in circiilatioi), as were many other stories, by the anti-Mormons,
to influence the public mind and create a hatred for tlie Mormons.
The effect of it, however, was that by 10 o'clock on the 2Sth,
between two and three hundred men from Quincy, under command
of Maj. Flood, went on board a steamboat for Nauvoo, to assist in
raising the siege, as they honestly believed.
VARIOUS DEPREDATIONS.
It was thought by many, and indeed the circitmstances seem to war-
rant the conclusion, that the assassins of Smith had arranged that the
murder should occur while the Governor was in Nauvoo; that the
Mormons would naturally suppose he planned it, and in the first out-
pouring of their indignation put him to death, as a means of retalia-
tion. They thought that if they could have the Governor of the State
assassinated by Mormons, the public excitement would be greatly
increased against that people, and would cause their extermination,
or at least their expulsion from the State. That it was a brutal and
premeditated murder cannot be and is not denied at this day; but
the desired effect of the murder was not attained, as the Mormons
did not evacuate Nauvoo for two years afterward. In the meantime,
the excitement and prejudice against this people were not allowed
to die out. Horse-stealing was quite common, and every case that
occurred was charged to the Mormons. That they were guilty of
Buch thefts cannot be denied, but a great deal of this work done at
that time was by organized bands of thieves, who knew they could
carry on their nefarious business with more safety, as long as sus-
picion could be placed upon the Mormons. In the summer and
fall of 1845 were several occurrences of a nature to increase the
irritation existing between the Mormons and their neighbors. A
suit was instituted in the United States Circuit Court against one
of the apostles, to recover a note, and a marshal sent to summons
Of THE •
\imvujy Cf ILLINOIS,
HIsroKV OF I ILLINOIS.. 113
the defendant, who refused to be served with the process. Indig-
nation meetings were held by the saints, and the marshal threat-
ened for attempting to serve the writ. About this time, General
Denning, sheriff, was assaulted by an anti-Mormon, whom he killed.
Denning was friendly to the Mormons, and a great outburst of
passion was occasioned among the friends of the dead man.
INCENDIARISM.
It was also discovered, in trying the rights of property at Lima,
Adams county, that tlie Mormons had an institution connected
with their church to secure their effects from execution. Incensed
at this and other actions, the anti-Mormons of Lima and Green
Plains, held a meeting to devise means for the expulsion of the
Mormons from that part of the country. It was arranged that a
number of their own party should fire on the building in which
they were assembled, in such a manner as not to injure anj'one,
and then report that the Mormons had commenced the work of
plunder and death. This plot was duly executed, and the startling
intelligence soon called together a Vn(3b,'whicli threatened the Mor-
mons with fire and sword if they dfdiiot^ immediately leave. The
Mormons refusing to depart, the mob at once executed their threats
by burning 125 houses and forcing the inmates to flee for their
lives. The sheriff of Hancock county, a prominent Mormon
armed several hundred Mormons and scoured the country, in search
of the incendiaries, but they had fled to neighboring counties, and
he was unable either to bring them to battle or make any arrests.
One man, however, was killed without provocation; another
attempting to escaj^e was shot and afterwards hacked and muti-
lated; and Franklin A. Worrell, who had charge of the jail when
the Smiths were killed, was shot by some unknown person con-
cealed in a thicket. The anti-Mormons committed one murder.
A party of them set fire to a pile of straw, near the barn of an old
Mormon, nearly ninety years of age, and when he appeared to ex-
tinguish the flames, he was sliot and killed.
The anti Mormons left their property exposed in their hurried
retreat, after having burned the houses of the Mormons. Those
who had been burned out sallied forth from JSTauvooand plundered
the whole country, taking whatever they could carry or drive
away. By order of the Governor, Gen. Hardin raised a force of
350 men, checked the Mormon ravages, and recalled the fugitive
anti-Mormons home.
114 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
MAKING PREPARATION TO LEAVE.
At this time a couveutioii, coiibi&tinu: of deleijates from ei^ht of
the adjoining counties, assembled to concert measures fur the expul-
sion of the Mormons from the State. The Mormons seriously c n-
templated emmigration w^estward, believing the times forboded
evil for them. Accordingly, during the winter of ISio-'-lO, the
most stupendous preparations were made by the Mormons for
removal. All the principal dwellings, and even th(3 temple, were
converted into work-shops, and before spring, 12,000 wagons were
in readiness; and by the middle of February the leaders, with 2,000
of their followers, had crossed the Mississippi on the ice.
Before the spring of 1846 the majority of the Mormons had left
Nauvoo, but still a large number remained.
THE BATTLE OF NACVOO. *
In September a writ was issued against several prominent Mor-
mons, and placed in the hands of John Carlin, of Carthage, for
execution. Carlin called out a posse to help make tlie arrest, which
brought together quite a large force in the neighborhood of Xauvoo.
Carlin, not being a military man, placed in command of the posse,
first, Gen. Singleton, and afterward Col. Brockman, who proceeded
to invest the city, erecting breastworks, and taking other means for
defensive as well as offensive operations. What was then termed a
battle next took place, resulting in the death of one Mormon and
the wounding of several others, and loss to the anti-Mormons of
three killed and four wounded. At last, through the intervention
of an anti-Mormon committee of one hundred, from Quincy, the
Mormons and their allies were induced to submit to such terms as
the posse chose to dictate, which were that the Mormons should
immediately give np their arms to the Quincy committee, and re-
move from the State. The trustees of the church and five of their
clerks were permitted to remain for the sale of Mormon property,
and the posse were to march in unmolested, and leave a sufficient
force to guarantee the performance of their stipulations. Accord -
ingh', the constable's posse marched in with Brockman at their
liead. It consisted of about 800 armed men and 600 or TOc
unarmed, who had assembled from all the country around, through
motives of curiosity, to see the once proud city of J^auvoo hum-
bled and delivered up to its enemies. They proceeded into the
OF THt
liMVE;^OiTY OF \-
;NOIS
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 117
city slowly and carefully, examining the way for fear of the explo-
sion of a mine, many of which had been made by the Mormons,
by burying kegs of powder in the ground, with a man stationed at
a distance to pull a string communicating with the trigger of a
percussion lock athxed to the keg. This kind of a contrivance was
called by the Mormons " hell's half-acre." When the posse
arrived in the city, the leaders of it erected themselves into a tri-
bunal to decide who should be forced away and who remain.
Parties were dispatched to hunt for fire-arms, and for Mormons, and
to bring them to judgment. When brought, they received their
doom from the mouth of Brockman, who sat a grim and unawed
tyrant for the time. As a general rule, the Mormons were ordered
to leave within an hour or two; and by rare grace some of them
were allowed until next day, and in a few cases longer time was
granted. ; ,k. .-,, .
MALTKEATlkfEiNT .OF-'^.NEW:' CITIZENS.
■■■ ' '■■■■■'■ r I ;t:-: ;• . . . ,,
Kothing was said in the treaty in regard to the new citizens, who
had with the Mormons defended the city; but the posse no sooner
had obtained possession than they commenced expelling them.
Some of them were ducked in the river, and were in one or two
instances actuallv baotized in the name of some of the leaders
of the mob; others were forcibly driven into the ferry-boats to be
taken over the river before the bayonets of armed ruffians. Many
of these new settlers were strangers in the country from various
parts of the United States, who were attracted there by the low
price of property; and they knew but little of previous difficulties
or the merits of the quarrel. They saw with their own eyes that
the Mormons were industriously preparing to go awaj^, and they
knew "of their own knowledge " that any effort to expel them by
force was gratuitous and unnecessary cruelty. They had been trained,
by the States whence they came, to abhor mobs and to obey the law,
and they volunteered their services under executive authority to
defend their town and their property against mob violence, and, as
they honestly believed, from destruction; but in this they were partly
mistaken; for although the mob leaders in the exercise of unbridled
power were guilty of many injuries to the persons of individuals,
although much personal* property was stolen, yet they abstained
from materially injuring houses and buildings.
118 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. *
THE MORMONS REACH SALT LAKE.
The fugitives proceeded west^vard, takino^ the road through Mis-
souri, but were forcibly ejected from that State and compelled to
move indirectly through Iowa. After innumerable hal•d^hips the
advance guard reached the Missouri river at Council Bluff?, when
a United States officer presented a requisition for 5U0 men to
serve in the war with Mexico. Compliance with this order so di-
minished their number of effective men, that the expedition was
again delayed and the remainder, consisting mostly of old men,
women and children, hastily prepared habitations for winter.
Their rudely constructed tents were hardly completed before winter
set in with great severity, the bleak prairies being incessantly swept
by piercing winds. While here cholera, fever and other diseases,
aggravated by the previous hardships, the want of comfortable
quarters and medical treatment, hurried many of them to prema-
ture graves, yet, under the influence of religious fervor and fanati-
cism, they looked death in the face with resignation and cheerful-
ness, and even exhibited a gayety which manifested itself in music
and dancing during the saddest hours of this sad winter.
At length welcome spring made its appeai'ance, and by April
they were again organized for the journey; a pioneer party, con-
sisting of Brigham Young and 140 others, was sent in advance to
locate a home for the colonists. On the 21 of July, 1847, a day
memorable in Mormon annals, the vanguard reached the valley of
the Great Salt Lake, having been directed thither, accjrding to
their accounts, by the hand of the Almighty. Here in a distant wil-
derness, midway between the settlements of the East and the Pacific,
and at that time a thousand miles from the utmost verge of civili-
zation, they commenced preparations for founding a colony, which
has since grown into a mighty empire.
MEXICAN WAR
During the month of May. 1846. the President called for four
regiments of volunteers from Illinois for the Mexican war. This
was no sooner known in the State than nine regiments, numbering
8,370 men. answered the call, thouo-h onlv four of them, amounting
to 3,720 men, could be taken. These regiments, as well as their
officers, were everywhere foremost in the American ranks, and dis-
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 119
tingiiislied themselves by their matchless valor in the bloodiest
battles of the war. Veterans never fought more nobly and effect-
ively than did the volunteers from Illinois. At "the bloody battle of
Buena Vista they crowned their lives — many their death — with the
laurels of war. Never did armies contend more bravelj', determinedly
and stubbornly than the American and Mexican forces at this famous
battle; and as Illinois troops were ever in the van and on the blood-
iest portions of the field, we believe a short sketch of the part they
took in the fierce contest is due them, and will be read with no lit-
tle interest.
BATTLE OF BUENA VISTA.
General Santa Anna, with his army of 20,000, poured into the
valley of Aqua Nueva early on the morning of the 22d of February,
hoping to surprise our army, consisting of about 5,000 men, under
Gen. Taylor and which had retreated to the ''Narrows." They
were hotly pursued by the Mexicans who, before attacking, sent
Gen. Taylor a flag of truce demanding a surrender, and assuring
him that if he refused he would be cut to pieces; but the demand
was promptly refused. At this the enemy opened fire, and the con-
flict began. In honor of the day the watchword with our soldiers
was, " The memory of Washington." An irregular fire was kept up
all day, and at night both armies bivouacked on the field, resting on
their arms. Santa Anna that night made a spirited address to his
men, and the stirring strains of his own band till late in the night
were distinctly heard by our troops; but at last silence fell over the
hosts that were to contend unto death in that narrow pass on the
morrow.
Early on the following morning the battle was resumed, and con-
tinued without intermission until nightfall. The solid columns of
the enemy were hurled against our forces all day long, but were
met and lield in check b}^ the unerring fire of our musketry and ar-
tillery. A portion of Gen. Lane's division was driven back by the
enemy under Gen. Lombardini, who, joined by Gen. Pacheco's divis-
ion, poured upon the main plateau in so formidable numbers as
to appear irresistible.
BRAVERY OF THE SECOND ILLINOIS.
At this time the 2d Illinois, under Col. Bissell, with a squadron
of cavalry and a few pieces of artillery came handsomely into action
120 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
and gallantly received the concentrated fire of the enemy, which
they returned with deliberate aim and terrible efi'ect; every dis-
charge of the artillery seemed to tear a bloody path through the
heavy columns of enemy. Saj^s a writer: "The rapid mus-
ketry of the gallant troops from Illinois poured a storm of lead
into their serried ranks, which literally strewed the ground with
the dead and dying." But, notwithstanding his losses, the enemy
steadily advanced until our gallant regiment received fire from
three sides. Still they maintained their position for a time with
unflinching firmness Mgainst that immense liost. At length, per-
ceiving the danger of being entirely surrounded, it was determined
to fall back to a ravine. Col. Bissel, with the coolness of ordinary
drill, ordered the signal "cease firing" to be made; he then with
the same deliberation gave the command, "Face to the rear, Bat-
talion, about face; forward march," which was executed with the
regularity of veterans to a point beyond the peril of being out-
flanked. Again, in obedience to command these brave men halted-
faced about, and under a murderous tempest of bullets from the foe,
resumed their well-directed fire. The conduct of no troops could
have been more admirable; and, too, until that day they had nevei*
been under fire, when, within less than half an hour eighty of their
comrades dropped by their sides. How different from the Arkansas
regiment, which were ordered to the plateau, but after delivering
their first volley gave way and dispersed.
SADDEST EVENT OF THE BATTLE.
But now we have to relate the saddest, and, for Illinois, the most
mournful, event of that battle- worn day. We take the account
from Col ton's History of the battle of Buena Yista. "As the enemy
on our left was moving in retreat along the head of the Plateau,
our artillery was advanced until within range, and opened a heavy
fire upon him, while Cols. Hardin, Bissell and Mclvee, with their
Illinois and Kentucky troops, dashed gallantly forward in hot pur-
suit. A powerful reserve of the Mexican army was then just
emerging from the ravine, where it had been organized, and
advanced on the plateau, opposite the head of the southernmost
gorge. Those who were giving way rallied quickly upon it; when
the whole force, thus increased to over 12,000 men, came forward
in a perfect blaze of fire. It was a single column, composed of the
best soldiers of the republic, having for its advanced battalions the
SCENE ON FOX RIVER.
OF THE
UNIVFSITY OF ILLINOIS.
HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS. 123
veteran regiments. The Kentucky and Illinois troops were soon
oblio-ed to irive ground before it and seek the shelter of the second
gorge. The enemy pressed on, arriving opposite the head of the
second gorge. One-half of the column suddenly enveloped it, while
the other half pressed on across the plateau, having for the moment
nothing to resist them but the three guns in their front. The por-
tion that was immediately opposed to the Kentucky and Illinois
troops, ran down along each side of the gorge, in which they had
sought shelter, and also circled around its head, leaving no possible
way of escape for them except by its mouth, which opened
upon the road. Its sides, which were steep, — at least an angle of
45 degrees, — were covered with loose pebbles and stones, and con-
verged to a point at the bottom. Down there were our poor fel-
lows, nearly three regiments of them (1st and 2d Illinois and 2d
Kentucky), with but little opportunity to load or fire a gun, being
hardly able to keep their feet. ' iVbove the whole edge of the
gorge, all the way around, was darkened by the serried masses of
the enemy, and was bristling with muskets directed on the crowd
beneath. It was no time to pause. Those who were not immedi-
ately shot down rushed on toward the road, their number growing
less and less as they went, Kentuckians and lUinoisans, officers and
men, all mixed up in confusion, and all pressing on over the loose
pebbles and rolling stones of those shelving, precipitous banks,
and having lines and lines of the enemy firing down from each
side and rear as they went. Just then the enemy's cavalry, which
had o-one to the left of the reserve, had come over the spur that
divides the mouth of the second gorge from that of the third, and
were now closing up the only door through which there was the
least shadow of a chance for their lives. Many of those ahead
endeavored to force their way out, but few succeeded. The lancers
were fully six to one, and their long weapons were already reeking
with blood. It was at this time that those who were still back in
that dreadful gorge heard, above the din of the musketry and the
shouts of the enemy around them, the roar of Washington's Bat-
tery. No music could have been more grateful to their ears. A
moment only, and the whole opening, where the lancers were busy,
rang with the repeated explosions of spherical-case shot. They
gave way. The gate, as it were, was clear, and out upon the road
a stream of our poor fellows issued. They ran panting down
124 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
toward the batteiy, and directlj under the flght of iron then pas-
sing over their heads, into tlie rctreatinsj cavahy. Ilardin, McKee,
Clay. Willis, Zabriskie, Houghton — but why go on? It would be
a sad task indeed to name over all who fell during this twenty
minutes' slaughter. The whole gorge, from the plateau to its
mouth, was strewed with our dead. All dead! No wounded there
— not a man; for the infantry had rushed down the sides and com-
pleted the work with the bayonet."
VICTORY FOR OUR ARMY.
The artillery on the plateau stubbornly maintained its position,
The remnants of the 1st and 2d Illinois regiments, after issuing
from the fated gorge, were formed and again brought into action,
the former, after the fall of the noble Ilardin, under Lieut. Cul.
Weatherford, the latter under Bissell. The enemy brought forth
reinforcements and a brisk artillery duel was kept up; but gradually,
as the shades of night began to cover the earth, the rattle of mus-
ketry slackened, and when thfe pall of night was thrown over that
bloody field it ceased altogether. Each army, after the fierce and
long struggle, occupied much the same position as it did in the
morning. However, early on the following morning, the glad
tidings were heralded amidst our army that the enemy had retreated,
thus again crowning the American banners with victory.
OTHER HONORED NAMES OF THIS WAR.
Other bright names from Illinois that shine as stars in this
war ai'te those of Shields, Baker, Harris and Cuflfee, which are
indissolubly connected with the glorious capture of Vera Cruz
and the not less famous storming of Cerro Gordo. In this latter
action, when, after the valiant Gen. Shields had been placed ho7's
do combat.) the command of his force, consisting of three regiments,
devoled upon Col. Baker. This ofiicer, with his men, stormed with
unheard-of prowess the last stronghold of the Mexicans, sweeping
everything before them. Such indeed were the intrepid valor and
darinof couraire exhibited bv Illinois volunteers durinof the Mexican
war that their deeds should live in the memory of their countrymen
until those latest times when the very name of America shall have
been forgotten.
125
THE WAR FOE THE UNION.
On the fourth day of March, 1861, after the most exciting and
momentous political campaign known in the history of this country,
Abraham Lincoln — Anxerica's martyred President — was inaugu-
rated Chief Magistrate of the United States. This fierce contest
was principally sectional, and as the announcement was flashed ov^er
the telegraph wires that the Republican Presidential candidate had
been elected, it was hailed by the South as a justifiable pretext for
dissolving the Union. Said Jefferson Davis in a speech at Jackson,
Miss., prior to the election, "If an abolitionist be chosen Presi-
dent of the United States you will have presented to you the
question whether you will permit the government to pass into
the handa^ of your avowed and implacable enemies. Without
pausing for an answer, I will state ray own position to be that
such a result would be a species of revolution by which the
purpose of the Government would be destroyed, and the obser-
vances of its mere forms entitled to no respect. In that event,
in such manner as should be most expedient, I should deem it
your duty to provide for your safety outside of the Union." Said
another Southern politician, when speaking on the same sub-
ject, " We shall fire the Southern heart, instruct the Southern
mind, give courage to each, and at the proper moment, by one
organized, concerted action, we can precipitate the Cotton States
into a revolution." To disrupt the Union and form a government
which recognized the absolute supremacy of the white population
and the perpetual bondage of the black was what they deemed
freedom from the galling yoke of a Republican administration.
ABRAHAM LINCOLN DTD NOT SEEK THE PRESIDENCY.
Hon. R. W. Miles, of Knox county, sat on the floor by the side
of Abraham Lincoln in the Library room of the Capitol, in Spring-
field, at the secret caucus meeting, held in January, 1859, when
Mr. Lincoln's name was first spoken of in caucus as candidate for
President. When a gentleman, in making a short speech, said,
" We are going to bring Abraham Lincoln out as a candidate for
President," Mr. Lincoln at once arose to his feet, and exclaimed,
"For God's sake, let me alone! I have suffered enough!" This
was soon after he had been defeated in the Legislature for United
States Senate by Stephen A. Douglas, and only those who are
12fi HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
intimate wiLn tiial iniportunt iiud unparalleled contest can appre-
ciate the full Ibice and meaning of these expressive words of the
martyred President. They were spontaneous, and prove beyond a
shadow of doubt that Abraham Lincoln did not seek the high posi-
tion of President. Nor did he use any trickery or chic-anery to
obtain it. But his expressed wish w^as not to be complied with;
our beloved country needed a savior and a martyr, and Fate had
decreed that he should be the victim. After Mr. Lincoln was
elected President, Mr, Miles sent him an eagle's quill, with wdnch
the chief magistrate wrote his Urst inaugural address. The letter
written by Mr. Miles to the President, and sent with the quill,
which was t\^o feet in length, is such a jewel of eloquence and
prophecy that it should l)e given a place in history:
Persifeu, December 21, 18(50.
Hon. a. Lincoln :
Dear Sir : — PIe:ise accept the eajile quill I premised you, by the hand of our
Representative, A. A. Smith. The bird from whose wiug the quill was taken, was
shot by John F Dillon, in Persifer township, Knox Co., Ills., in Feb., 1857 Hay-
ing heard that James Buchanan was furnished with an eagle quili to write his
Inaugural with, and believing that in IWiO, a Republican would be elected to take
his place, I determined to savethis ((uili and present it to tlie fortunate man, who-
ever he might be. Reports tell us that the bird which furnishetl Buchanan's quill
was a captured bird, — fii eml)lem of the man that used it ; i)ut the bird from
which this quill was taken, yielded the quill only with his life, — rit emblem of tiie
man who is expected to use it, for true Republicans believe that you would not
think lile worth the keeping after the surrender of principle. Great difficulties
surround you ; traitors to their country have threatened your life ; and should
3'ou be called upon to surrender it at the post of duty, your memory will live for-
ever in the heart of every freeman ; and that is a grander monument than can be
built of brick or marble.
"For if hearts may not our memories keep,
Obliviou haste each ve8ti<:;e sweep,
And let our memoricN end.'''
Vours Truly,
R. W. Miles.
STATES SEC EDI NO.
At the time of President Lincoln's accession to power, several
members of tlie L'nion claimed they had withdrawn from it, and
styling themselves the "Confederate States of America," organ-
ized a separate government. The house was indeed divided
against itself, but it should not fall, nor should it long continue
divided, was the hearty, determined response of every loyal heart
in the nation. The accursed institution of human slavery was
the primary cause for this dissolution of the American Union.
Doubtless other agencies served to intensify the hostile feel-
ings which existed between the Northern and Southern portions
UISTOKY OK Il.LI^'OIS. 127
of our country, but their remote origin could be traced to this great
national evil. Had Lincoln's predecessor put forth a timely, ener-
getic effort, he might have prevented tlie bloody war our nation
was called to pass through. On the other hand every aid was given
the rebels; every advantage and all the power of the Government
was placed at their disposal, and when Illinois' honest son took the
reins of the Republic he found Buclianan had been a traitor to his
trust, and given over to the South all available means of war.
THE FALL OF SUMTEE.
On the 12th day of April, 1861, the rebels, who for weeks had
been erecting their batteries upon the shore, after demanding of
Major Anderson a surrender, opened Hre upon Fort Sumter. For
thirty-four hours an incessant cannonading was continued; the fort
was being seriously injured; provisions were almost gone, and Major
Anderson was compelled to haul down the stars and stripes. That
dear old flag which had seldom been lowered to a foreign foe by
rebel hands was now trailed in the dust. The first blow of the
terrible conflict which summoned vast armies into tlie field, and
moistened the soil of a nation in fraternal blood and tears, had
been struck. Tlie gauntlet thus thrown down by the attack on
Sumter by the traitors of the South was accepted — not, however,
in the spirit with which insolence meets insolence — but with a firm,
determined spirit of patriotism and love of country. The duty of
the President was plain under the constitution and the laws, and
above and beyond all, the people from whom all political power is
derived, demanded the suppression of the Rebellion, and stood ready
to sustain the authority of their representative and executive
officers. Promptly did the new President issue a proclamation
calling for his countrymen to join with him to defend their homes
and their countrj^, and vindicate her honor. This call was made
April 14, two days after Sumter was ^rst fired upon, and was for
75,000 men. On the 15th, the same day he was notified. Gov.
Yates issued his Droclamation conveninar the Leo^islature. He also
ordered the organization of six regiments. Troops were in abund-
ance, and the call was no sooner made than filled. Patriotism
thrilled and vibrated and pulsated through every heart. The farm,
the workshop, the office, the pulpit, the bar, the bench, the college,
the school-house, — every calling offered its best men, their lives and
their fortunes, in defense of the Government's honor and unity.
128 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
Bitter words spoken in moments of political heat were forgotten
and forgiven, and joining hands in a common cause, thej repeated
the oath of America's soldier-statesman : " By the Great Eternal^
the Union must and shall he preserved^ The honor, the very
life and glory of the nation was committed to the stern arbitrament
of the sword, and soon the tramp of armed men, the clash of
musketry and the heavy boom of artillery reverberated throughout
the continent; rivers of blood saddened by tears of mothers, wives,
sisters, daughters and sweethearts flowed from the lakes to the
gulf, but a nation was saved. The sacrifice was great, but the
Onion was preserved.
CALL FOR TROOPS PROMFPLY ANSWERED.
Simultaneously with the call for troops by the President, enlist-
ments commenced in this State, and within ten days 10,000
volunteers offered service, and the sum of $1,000,000 was tendered
by patriotic citizens. Of the volunteers who offered their services,
only six regiments could be accepted under the quota of the State.
But the time soon came vrhen there was a place and a musket for
every man. The six regiments raised were designated by numbers
commencing with seven, as a mark of respect for the six regiments
which had served in the Mexican war. Another call was antici-
pated, and the Legislature authorized ten additional regiments to
be organized. Over two hundred companies were immediately
raised from which were selected the required number. Xo sooner
was this done than the President made another call for troops, six
regiments were again our proportion, although by earnest solicita-
tion the remaining four were accepted. There were a large number
of men with a patriotic desire to enter the service who were denied
this privilege. Many of them wept, M'hile others joined regiments
from other States. In May, June and July seventeen regiments
of infantry and five of cavall-y were raised, and in the latter month,
when the President issued his first call for 500,000 volunteers,
Illinois tendered thirteen regiments of infantry and three of cavalry,
and so anxious were her sons to have the Pebellion crushed that
the number could have been increased by thousands. At the
close of 1S61 Illinois had sent to the field nearly 50,000 men, and
had 17,000 in camp awaiting marching orders, thus exceeding her
full quota by 15,000.
HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS. 129
A VAST ARMY RAISED IN ELEVEN DAYS.
In July and August of 1802 the Presi'dent called for 600,000
men — our quota of which was 52,296 — and gave until August 18 as
the limits in which the number might be raised by volunteering,
after which a draft would be ordered. The State had already fur-
nished 17,000 in excess of her quota, and it was first thought this
number would be deducted from the present requisition, but that
could not be done. But thirteen days were granted to enlist this
vast army, which had to come from tlie farmers and mechanics.
The former were in the midst of harvest, but, inspired by love of
country, over 50,000 of them left their harvests ungatliered, their
tools and their benches, the plows in their furrows, turning their
backs on their homes, and belbre eleven days had expired the
demands of the Government were met and both quotas filled.
The war went on, and call followed call, until it began to look as
if there would not be men enough in all the Free States to crush
out and subdue the monstrous war traitors had inaugurated. But
to every call for either men or money there was a willing and ready
response. And it is a boast of the people that, had the supply of
men fallen short, there were women brave enough, daring enough,
patriotic enough, to have offered themselves as sacrifices on their
country's altar. On the 21st of December, 1864, the last call for
troops was made. It was for 300,000. In consequence of an im-
perfect enrollment of the men subject to military dut}^, it became
evident, ere this call was made, that Illinois was furnishing thous-
ands of men more than what her quota would have been, had it
been correct. So glaring had this disproportion become, that
under this call the quota of some districts exceeded the number of
able-bodied men in them.
A GENERAL SUMMARY.
Following this sketch we give a schedule of all the volunteer
troops organized from this State, from the commencement to the
close of the war. It is taken from the Adjutant General's report.
The number of the regiment, name of original Colonel, call under
which recruited, date of organization and muster into the United
States' service, place of muster, and aggregate strength of each
organization, from which we find that Illinois put into her one hun-
dred and eighty regiments 256,000 men, and into the United States
130 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
army, through other States, enough to swell the number to 290,000.
This far exceeds all the- soldiers of the Federal Government in all
the war of the Revolution. Her total years of service were over
600,000. She enrolled men from eighteen to forty-five years of age,
when the law of Congress in 1S6J: — the test time — only asked for
those from twenty to forty-five. Her enrollments were 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 the quota itself, at least in the trying time, was far above
any other State. 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 one hundred days, for whom no credit was asked. She
gave to the country 73.000 years of service above all calls. With
one-thirteenth of the population of the loyal States, she sent regu-
larly one-tenth of all the soldiers, and in the perils of the closing
calls, when patriots were few and weary, she sent one-eighth of all
that were called for by her lov^d and honored son in the White
House. Of the brave boys Illinois sent to the front, there were
killed in action, 5,888; died of wounds, 3,032; of disease,* 19,496;
in prison, 967; lost at sea, 205; aggregate, 29,588. As upon every
field and upon every page of the history of this war, Illinois bore
her part of the suffering in the prison-pens of the South. More
than 800 names make up the awful column of Illinois' brave sons
who died in the rebel prison of Andersonville, (la. Who can
measure or imagine the atrocities which would be laid before the
world were the panorama of sufferings and terrible trials of these
gallant men but half unfolded to view? But this can never be
done until new words of horror are invented, and new arts dis-
covered by which demoniacal fiendishness can be portrayed, and
the intensest anguish of the human soul in ten thousand forms be
painted.
No troops ever fought more heroically, stubbornly, and with bet-
ter effect, than did the boys from the "Prairie State." At Pea
Ridge, Donelson, Pittsburg Landing, luka, Corinth, Stone River,
Holly Springs, Jackson, Vicksburg, Chicamauga, Lookout Moun-
tain, Murfreesboro, Atlanta, Franklin, Nashville, Chattanooga, and
on every other field where the clash of arms was heard, her sons
were foremost.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 131
CAPTURE OF THE ST. LOUIS ARSENAL.
Illinois was almost destitute of firearms at the beginning of the
conflict, and none could be procured in the East. The traitorous
Floyd had turned over to the South 300,000 arms, leaving most
arsenals in the North empty. Gov. Yates, however, received an
order on the St. Louis arsenal for 10,000 muskets, which he put in
the hands of Captain Stokes, of Chicago. Several unsuccessful
attempts were made by the Captain to pass through the large crowd
of rebels which had gathered around the arsenal, suspecting an
attempt to move the arms would be made. He at last succeeded
in gaining admission to the arsenal, but was informed by the com-
mander that the slightest attempt to move the arms would be dis-
covered and bring an infuriated mob upon the garrison. This fear
was well founded, for the following day Gov. Jackson ordered 2,000
armed men from Jefferson City down to capture the arsenal. Capt.
Stokes telegraphed to Alton for a steamer to descend the river, and
about midnight land opposite the arsenal, and proceeding to the
same place with 700 men of the 7th Illinois, commenced loading
the vessel. To divert attention from his real purpose, he had 500
guns placed upon a different boat. As designed, this movement
was discovered by the rabble, and the shouts and excitement upon
their seizure drew most of the crowd from the arsenal. Capt.
Stokes not only took all the guns his requisition called for, but
emptied the arsenal. When all was ready, and the signal given to
start, it was found that the immense weight had bound the bow of
the boat to a rock, but after a few moments' delay the boat fell away
from the shore and floated into deep water.
"Which way?" said Capt. Mitchell, of the steamer. ''Straight
in t\e regular channel to Alton," replied Capt. Siokes. "What if
we are attacked?" said Capt. Mitchell. ".Then we will fight," was
the reply of Capt. Stokes. "What if we are overpowered?" said
Mitcliell. " Run the boat to the deepest part of the river and sink
her," replied Stokes. "I'll do it," was the heroic answer of
Mitchell, and away they went past the secession battery, past the
St. Louis levee, and in the regular channel on to Alton. When
they touched the landing, Capt. Stokes, fearing pursuit, ran to the
market house and rang the fire bell. The citizens came flocking
pell-mell to the river, and soon men, women and children were
tuggina: away at that vessel load of arras, which they soon had
deposited in freight cars and ofi" to Springfield.
132 HlStORY OF ILLINOIS.
LIBERALITY AS WELL AS PATRIOTISM.
The people were liberal as well as patriotic; and while the men
were busy enlisting, organizing and equipping companies, tlie ladies
were no less active, and the noble, generous work performed bj
their tender, loving hands deserves mention along with the bravery,
devotion and patriotism of their brothers upon the Southern fields
of carnao;e.
The continued need of money to obtain the comforts and neces-
saries for the sick and wounded of our army suggested to the loyal
women of the North many and various devices for the raising of
funds. Every city, town and village had its fair, festival, picnic,
excursion, concert, which netted more or less to the cause of
hospital relief, according to the population of the place and the
amount of energy and patriotism displayed on such occasions.
Especially was this characteristic of our own fair State, and scarcely
a hamlet within its borders which did not send something from its
stores to hospital or battlefield, and in the larger towns and cities
were well-organized soldiers' aid societies, working systematically
and continuously from the beginning of the war till its close. The
great State Fair held in Chicago in May, 186.5, netted $250,000.
Houfles for travelino; soldiers were established all over the State, in
which were furnished lodging for 600.000 men, and meals valued
at $2,500,000. Food, clothing, medicine, hospital delicacies,
reading matter, and thousands of other articles, were sent to the
boys at the front.
MESSAGES OF LOVE AND ENCOURAGEMENT.
Letters, messages of love and encouragement, were sent by
noble women from many countres of the State to encourage the
brave sons and brothers in the South. Below we give a copy of a
printed letter sent from Knox county to the "boys in blue," as
showinor the feeling's of the women of tlie North. It was headed,
" From the Women of Knox County to Their Brothers in the
Field." It was a noble, soul -inspiring message, and kindled anew
the intensest love for home, country, and a determination to crown
the stars and stripes with victory:
"You have gone out from our homes, but not from our hearts.
Never for one moment are you forgotten. Through weary march
and deadly conflict our prayers have ever followed you; your
sufferings are our sufferings, your victories our great joy.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 133
" If there be one of you who knows not the dear home ties, for
whom no mother prays, no sister watches, to him especially we
speak. Let him feel that thou^^h he may not have one mother he
has many; he is the adopted child and brother of all our hearts.
N'ot one of you is beyond the reach of our sympathies; no picket-
station so lonely that it is not enveloped in the halo of our
prayers.
" During all the long, dark months since our country called you
from us, your courage, your patient endurance, your fidelity, have
awakened our keenest interest, and we have longed to give you an
expression of that interest.
"By the alacrity with which you sprang to arms, by the valor
with which those arms have been wielded, you have placed our
State in the front ranks; yon have made her worthy to be the home
of our noble President. For thus sustaining the honor of our
State, dear to us as life, we thank you.
'' Of your courage we need not speak. Fort Donelson, Pea
Ridge, SJiiloh, Stone River, Vicksburg, speak with blood-bathed
lips of your heroism. The Army of the Southwest fights beneath
no defeat-shadowed banner; to it, under God, the nation looks for
deliverance.
"But we, as women, have other cause for thanks. "We will not
speak of the debt we owe the defenders of our Government; that
blood-sealed bond no words can cancel. But vvc are your debtors
in a way not often recognized. You have aroused us from the
aimlessness into which too many of our lives had drifted, and have
infused into those lives a noble pathos. "We could not dream our
time away while our brothers were dying for us. Even your suffer-
ings have worked together for our good, by inciting us to labor for
their alleviation, thus giving us a work worthy of our womanhood.
Everything that we have been permitted to do for your comfort
has filled our lives so much the fuller of all that makes life valua-
ble. You have thus been the means of developing in us a nobler
type of womanhood than without the example of your heroism we
could ever have attained. For this our wliole lives, made purer
and nobler by the discipline, will thank you.
"This war will leave none of us as it found us. "We cannot
bufiet the raging wave and escape all trace of the salt sea's foam.
Toward better or toward worse we are hurried with fearful
134 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
haste. If we at home feel this, what must it be to you! Our
hearts throb with agony when we think of you wounded, suffering,
dying; but the thought of no physical pain touches us half so
deeply as the thought of the temptations which surround you.
We could better give you up to die on the battle-field, true to your
God and to your country, than to have you return to us with
blasted, blackened souls. When temptations assail fiercel}', you
must let the thought that your mothers are praying for strength
enable you to overcome them. But fighting for a worthy cause
worthily ennobles one; herein is our confidence that you will
return better men than you went away.
"By all that is noble in your manhood; by all that is true in
our womanhood; by all that is grand in patriotism; by all that is
sacred in religion, we adjure you to be faithful to yourselves, to us,
to your country, and to your God. JSTever were men permitted to
fight in a cause more worthy of their blood. Were you fighting
for mere conquest, or glory, we could not give you up; but to sus-
tain a principle, the greatest to which human lips have ever given
utterance, even your dear lives are not too costly a sacrifice. Let
that principle, the corner-stone of our independence, be crushed,
and we are all slaves. Like the Suliote mothers, we might well
clasp our children in our arms and leap down to death.
"To the stern arbitrament of the sword is now committed the
honor, the very life of this nation. You fight not for yourselves
alone; the eyes of the whole world are on you; and if you fail our
jSTation's death-wail will echo throuofh all cominc^ ae^es, moanino- a
requiem over the lost hopes of oppressed humanity. But you will
not fail, so sure as there is a God in Heaven. He never meant
this richest argosy of the nations, freighted with the fears of all
the world's tyrants, with the hopes of all its oppressed ones, to
flounder in darkness and death. Disasters may come, as they have
come, but they will only be, as they have been, ministers of good.
Each one has led the nation upward to a higher plane, from whence
it has seen with a clearer eye. Success could not attend us at the
West so long as we scorned the help of the black hand, which
alone had power to open the gate of redemption; the God of
battles would not vouchsafe a victory at the East till the very foot-
prints of a McClellan were washed out in blood.
"But now all things seem ready; we have accepted the aid of
HISTORV oF ILLINOIS. 135
that hand; those footsteps are obliterated. In his own good time
we feel that God will give us the victory. Till that hour comes we
bid you fight on. Though we have not attained that heroism, or
decision, which enables us to give you up without a struggle, which
can prevent our giving tears for your hlood, though many of us
must own our hearts desolate till you return, still we bid you stay
and fight for our country, till from this fierce baptism of blood she
shall be raised complete; the dust shaken from her garments puri-
fied, a new Memnon singing in the great Godlight."
Sherman's march to the sea.
On the 15th of November, 1864, after the destruction of Atlanta,
and the railroads behind him, Sherman, with his army, began his
march to the sea-coast. The almost breathless anxiety with which
his progress was watched by the loyal hearts of the nation, and the
trembling apprehension with which it was regarded by all who
hoped for rebel success, indicated this as one of the most remark-
able events of the war; and so it proved. Of Sherman's army, 45
regiments of infantry, three companies of artillery, and one of
cavalry were from this State. Lincoln answered all rumors of
Sherman's defeat with, " It is impossible; there is a mighty sight
of fight in 100,000 Western men." Illinois soldiers brought home
300 battle flags. The first United States flag 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.
Illinois gave the country the great general of the war, U. S.
Grant.
character of ABRAHAM LINCOLN.
One other name from Illinois comes up in all minds, embalmed
in all hearts, that must have the supreme place in this sketch of
our iJ^lorv and of our nation's 'honor: that name is Abraham
Lincoln. The analysis of Mr. Lincoln's character is difiicult on
account of its symmetry. In this age we look with admiration at
his uncompromising honesty; and well we may, for this saved us.
Thousands throughout the length and breadth of our country, who
knew him only as "Honest Old Abe," voted for him on that
account; and wisely did they choose, for no other man could have
carried us through the fearful night of war. "When his plans were
too vast for our comprehension, and his faith in the cause too sub-
136 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
lime for onr participation; wlien it was all night about us, and all
dread before us, and all sad and desolate behind us; when not one
ray shone upon our cause; when traitors were haughty and exult-
ant at the South, and fierce and blasphemous at the Xortli; when
the loyal men seemed almost in the minority; when the stoutest
heart quailed, the bravest cheek paled; when generals were defeat-
ing each other for place, and contractois were leeching out the very
heart's blood of the republic; when everything else had failed us,
we looked at this calm, patient man standing like a rock in the
storm, and said, " Mr. Lincoln is honest, and we can trust him still."
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 lands. With
such certainty did Mr. Lincoln follow causes to their ultimate
effects, that his foresight of contingencies seemed almost prophetic.
He is radiant with all the great virtues, and his memory will shed
a glory upon this age that will fill the eyes of men as they look
into histor}'. Other men have excelled him in some points; but,
taken at all points, he stands head and shoulders above every other
man of 6,000 years. An administrator, he saved the nation in the
perils of unparalleled civil war; a statesman, he justified his
measures by their success; a philanthropist, he gave liberty to one
race and salvation to another; a moralist, he bowed from the sum-
mit of human power to the foot of the cross; a mediator, he exer-
cised mercy under the most absolute obedience to law; a leader,
he was no partisan; a commander, he was untainted with blood; a
ruler in desperate times, he was unsullied with crime; a man, he
has left no word of passion, no thought of malice, no trick of craft,
no act of jealousy, no purpose of selfish amljition. Thus perfected,
without a model and without a peer, he was dropped into these
troubled years to adorn and embellish all that is good and all that
is great in our humanity, and to present to all coming time the
representative of the divine idea of free government. It is not
too much to say that away down in the future, when the republic
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; when the Anglo-Saxon shall be spoken only by the tongue
of the stranger, then the generations looking this way shall see
the great President as the supreme figure in this vortex of history.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
K3T
THE WAR ENDED — THE UNION RESTORED.
The rebellion was ended with the surrender of Lee and his army,
and Johnson and his command in April, 1SG5. Our armies at the
time were up to their maximum strength, never so formidable,
never so invincible; and, until recruiting ceased by order of Sec-
retary Stanton, were daily strengthening. The necessity, however,
LINCOLN MONUMENT AT SPRINGFIELD.
for SO vast and formidable numbers ceased with the disbanding of
the rebel forces, which had for more than four years disputed the
supremacy of the Government over its domain. And now the
joyful and welcome news was to be borne to tlie victorious legions
tliat their work was ended in triumph, and they were to be per-
mitted "to see homes and friends once more."
138
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
ScHEDUT-E — Showing statement of volunteer troops organized within the State, and sent to the
field, commencing April, 1801. and ending December 31, 1865. with number of regimerft, name
of original commanding officer, date of organization and muster into United States' service,
piace of muster, and the aggregate strength of each organization.
INFANTRY.
Commanding officer at organiza
tion.
7 Col. John Cook.
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
•17!
18;
19;
201
21 !
22
23
24 1
25l
261
27
2S,
29
30
31
32
33
34
35
36i
37;
38;
39'
40
41
42
43
44
45
46
47
46
49
50
51
52
53
54
65
56
5-
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
6?
69
70
71
Richard J. Oglesby.
Kleazer A. Paine. . .
Jas. D. Morgan
W. H. L. Wallace...
John McArthur
John B. Wyman
John M. Pa'mer
Thos. J. Turner
Robert F. Smith....
Leonard F. Ross
Michael K. Lawler..,
John B. Turchin —
Chas. C. Marsh
Uiypses S.Grant
Henry Dougherty —
Jas. A. Mulligan
Frederick Hecker. . .
Wm. N. Coler
John M. Loomis
Kap. B. Btiford
A. K. Johnson
Jas. S. Rearden
Philip B. Fouke
John A. Logan. . . .
John Logan
Cha.''. E. Hovev
" Edward N. Kirk
" Gus. A. Smith
" Nich. Giciisel
" Julius White
" Wm. P. Carlin
" Austin Li -ht
" Stcph. G. Hicks
" Isaac C. Piigh
" Wm.A. Webb
" Julius Raith
" Chas. Noblesdorff .. .
" John E. Smith
" John A. Davis
" John Brvuer
" Isham N. Haynie
" Wm. R.Morrison...
" Moses M. Bane
'• G. W. Ciiinming. . . .
" Isaac G. Wilson
•' W. H. W. Ciisbman.
" Thos. W. Harris... .
" David Stnart
" Robert Kirkham
" Silas D. Baldwin....
" Wm. P Lvnch
•' P. Sidney Post
" Silas C. Toler
" Jacob Fry
" James M. True
" Franc's Mora
Lt. Col. D. D. Williams..
Col. Daniel Cameron ... .
" Patrick E. Burke
" Rose 1 M. Hough
•' Elias Stuart
'• Jos. H. Tucker
" O.T.Reeves
" Othniel Gilbert
Date of organization and Place where mustered!
muster into the United! into the United States
States service. service.
July 25. 1861 .
May 2i, 1861.
May 25, 1801.
May 24, 1861.
May 28, 1861..
June V\ 1861.
June 15, 18'il.
June 25, 1861.
Juno 18, 1801.
July 8, 1801.
[Oct. 31, 1801.
Aug. 3, 1861 .
July 27, 1861.
Sept. 30, 1861.
Sept. 8, 1861..
Dec. 31, 1861
Aug. 15, 1861.
Sept. 7, 18ol.
Sept. 2^, 1801
Sept. 18, 13C1
Aug. l.MS'Ji. ..
December. 1861..
Aug 10, ISO I
Aug, 9, 1801
Sept. 17, 1801
Dec. 16,1801
Sept. 13, 1861....
Dec. 20. 1 61 . ...
Dec. 2S. 1861
Oct. 1 1861
Nov. 18,1801
Dec. 31. 1361
Sept. 12. 1801 ..
Doc. '61, Fpb. '62.
Nov. 19. 1801
March. 1802
Feb. 18.1862
Oct. 31,1811
Feb. 27. l-<62
Dec. 26, 1801
Dec. 24. 1861
Augnsi. ISOl
Feb. IT. lS'i2
March 7, IS'ia....
April 10, 1862
iDec. 31, 1862.
i Mavis, 1862.
I April. 1P62...
iJuno 13, 1862.
June 20, 1802.
June 14, \9-<S%
Julv4. 1802 .
Jul V 26. 1802.
Cairo, Illinois.
Dixon
Jacksonville.
Freeport
Quincy
Peoria
Anna
Joliet . . .
Mattoon...
Belleville.
Chicago...
Chicago.. .
Camp But'er.
Camp
Camp
Camp
Camp
Camp
Camp
Camp
Butler.
Butler.
Butler.
Butler.
Butler.
But'er.
Butler.
.\urora
Chicago
Camp Butler.. .
Chicago
>a?em
Decatur
Chicago
Camp Butler. . .
Chicago
Ga'ena
Camp Bntler. ..
Peoria
Camp Butler. . .
Camp Butler. .
Quincy
Camp "Douglas.
Geneva.. . .
Ottawa
Anna
Camp Doufflae
Shawncctown ..
Camp Douglas.
Camp Douglas
«t Louis, Mo..
Anna .
Carrollton
Anna
Anna
Camp Butler. . .
Camn Douglas.
St. Lou'«. Mo. .
Camp DoTglas.
Camp Butler.. .
Camp Donclas.
Camp Butler.. .
Camp Douglas.
<§§
gS
T'cr
1747
1853
1265
1759
1384
1675
1112
2015
20-28
1833
1259
2043
11195
1817
1260
1164
1982
989
1082
1602
1193
19.39
1547
1^78
1973
1711
1660
1558
1012
1593
1157
1388
1807
1277
1211
1824
1902
1512
1710
2015
2051
1874
1482
1761
1550
1519
14 4
1720
l':87
1180
2202
17C2
1647
1385
1730
1.'28
1624
1684
1694
979
889
912
1006
940
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
139
ScnEDULE — Showing statement of volunteer troops organized within the State, and sent to the
field, conimouciu!:; April, 1861, and ending December 31, 18()5, wth iminher of regiment, name
of original commanding citHcer, date of organization and muster into United States' service,
place of muster, and the aggregate strength of each organization,
INFANTRY.
7.^
7
75
76
77
78
79
80
81
82
83
84
85
86
87
90
91
93
93
94
95
96
97
98
99
loo
101
102
103
IO4
IO5
106
lOr
108
IO9
llO
111
II2
113
114
II5
116
117
118
119
120
121
12-2
12H
124
125
126
127
12s
129
130
131
132
133
134
135
Commanding officer at organiza-Date of organization and Place where mustered
tion. muster into the United into the United State-
States Bervice.
Col. Fredericli A. Starring
" Jas. F. Jaquess.
" Jason Marsh
" George Ryan
" Alouzo W. Mack
■' David P. Grier
"■ W. H. Bennison
'■ Lyman Guinuip
" Thos.G. Olen
" Jas. J. Do.lins
'• Frederick Hecker
'^ AhuerC. Harding
" Louis H. Waters
" Roberts. Moore
" David D. Irons
" John E. Whiting
" F. T. Sherman.
■' John Christopher
" Timothy O'Mera
'■ Henry M. Day
•' Smith D. Atkins
'■ Holden Putnam
'• Wm. vV. Orme ...
' ■ Lavvr'n S. Church
" Thos. E. Champion
" P.S.Rutherford
'• J.J. Funkhouser
" G. W. K. Biiiley
'• Fred. A. Bartlesou
" Chas. H. Fox
" Wm. McMurtry -. .
" Amos C. Babcock A
" Absalom R. Moore ..,
" Daniel Diistin
'' Robert B. Latham
" Thomas Snell
" John Warner
" Alex. J. Nimmo
'• Thos. S. Casey
•' James S. Martin
'" T. J. Henderson
'• Geo. B. Hoge
•' James W. Judy
" Jesse H. Moore
" Nathan H. Tupper
•' Risden M. Moore
•' John G. Fonda..
" Thos. J. Kenney
'■ George W. McKeaig
Never organized
Col. John I. Riuaker
James Moore
Thomas J. Sloan
Oscar F. Harmon
Jonathan Richmond
John VanArmau
Robert M. Hudley
George P. Smith
Nathaniel Niles
George W. Neeley
Thomas C. Pickett
Thad. Phillips
W. W MeChesney
John S.Wolfe
Aug. 31, 1862.,
Sept. 4. 1862...
;5ept. 2. 1862..
'Ug 22,1862.
*Sept. 3. l-i6i.
Sept. 1. 18ti2..
Aug. 28, 862. .
Aug. 25, 1862...
Aug. 2b, 1862..
Aug. 21, 1862..
Sept. 1, 1862. .
Aug. 27, 1862
Sept. 22, 1862. .
Aug. 27, 1862...
*Aug 25, 18(i ;.
Nov. 22, 1862..
Sept. 8, 1862...
Sept. 4,1862...
Oct. 13,1862....
Aug. 20,1862...
Sept. 4, I8ii2...
Sept. 6, 1862...
Sept. 8, 18!J2..
Sept. 3, 1H62 ..
Aug. 26, 1862. .
Aug. 30, 1862.
Sept. 2, 1862...
Oct, 2, 1862. . .
Aug. 27, 1862.
Sept. 2, 1862.
Sept. 17, 1862.
Sept. 4,1862..
Aug. 28, 1862.
Sept. 11, 1861.
Sept. IS, 1862.
Sept. 12. 1862. .
Oct. 1. 1862. . . .
Sept. 18, 1862..
Sept. 13, 1S62..
Sept. 30 1862..
Sept. 19, 1862..
Nov 29. 1S62.
Oct. 7, 18G2...
Oct. 29, 1862...
Sept. 4,1862..
Sept. 6 1S62 .
Sept. 10. 1862.
Sept. 4, 1863..
*Sept. 5, 1862.
Dec 18, 1862..
Sept. 8, 1862..
Oct. 25.1865..
Nov. 13,1862..
Junel, 1864..
May 31,1864..
June 6, 1864.
eervice.
Camp Douglas
Camp tiutler
Rockford
Dixon
Kankakee
Peoria..,
(iuincy
Danville
ijentralia
.inna
Camp Butler
Monmouth
Quiucy
Peoria
Peoria
Shawneetown
(.^amp Douglas
Camp Douglas
Camp Douglas
Camp Butler
Rockford ... .
Princeton and Chicago.
Bloomingtou,
Rockford
Rockford
Camp Butler
Centralia ,
Florence, Pike Co.,
Joliet
Jacksonville
Kuoxville
peoria...
Ottawa
Chicago
Lincoln
Camp Butler
Peoria
Anna
Anna
Sa em. .-
Peoria
Camp Douglas
Camp Butler
Camp Butler
Decatur
Camp Butler
Camp Butler
Quincv
CampButler
Carlinville
Mattoon..
Camp Butler...
Danville
Chicasjo
Camp^Douglas .
Camp Butler...
Poutiac
Camp Butter...
Camp Massac.
Camp Fry
Camp Butler.
Camp Fry
Mattoon
>■
N cnftQ
EC -JMQ
rt- ^ T
c n>
D 1)
• o :?
P ^
VP*
li7l
968
989
961'
1110
1061
1U28
974
928
llfi7
961
1286
956
959
993
994
907
1.85
958
1041
1265
1036
1091
1427
1306
1082
1078
936
921
911
998
917
977
1001
1097
944
927
967
873
994
1095
1258
990
960
952
995
1101
952
844
'934
1050
1130
933
998
9.57
866
1011
932
880
853
851
878
852
140
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
ScHEDCLE— Showing statement of volunteer troop? organized within the State, and sent to the
field, commencini: April, 1861, and ending December 31, 1865. with numher of regiment, name
of original commaiidin-^ officer, date of organization and mnster into United States' service,
place of muster, and the aggregate strengih'of each orgauizaiiou.
INFANTRY.
Commanding officer at organiza- iDate of organization and Place where mustered
tion.
13
13
136
139
140
I4li
142|
143
144!
145'
146'
1471
148
149
I'O
15t
152
153
154
155
156
Col. Fred. A. Johns.. ..
'• Jehu Wood
" J. W. Goodwin
" Priier Davidson
•• L. H. v\ hituey
"• Stephen Brouson..
*• RoUiu V. Aiiliuey.
'• Dudley C. Smith...
'• Oyrus'llall..
" Georiie W. Lackey
" Henry H. Dean
•• lliram F. bick'es. .
" Horace II. Wilsie. .
" Wm. (". KuefTner. .
" George ^v. Keener.
" French B. ^Voodall
" F. D. Stephenson. .
" Stephen Brouson. .
" McLean F. Wood. .
" Gnstavus A. Smith
" Alfred F. Smith...
" J. W. Vipon
" John A. Bross
iCapt. . I ohn Curtis
I '• Simon J. Stookey.
" James Stecic
muster into the Uniiedi
States service.
into the United States
service
>
;une 1. 1864...
June 5. 1864..
June 21. 1864.
June 1. 1864..
June 18, l!r64.
June 36, 1864.
June 18, 1864.
Jquc ll,lfc64.
Oct. 21,1864..
Iunc9. 1864..
Sept. 20, ]?64.
Feb. 18, 1865..
Feb. 11, 1863. .
Feb. 14, 1863
Feb. 25, 1865..
Feb. 18, 1865..
Feb. 27, 18o5. .
Feb. 22. 1865.
Fob. 28. 1865 .
March 9. 1865.
Dec. 1, 1861 .
June '21, 1864..
June 15, 1S64.
Centralia
Quincy
Qaiucy
Peoria
Camp Butler..
Elgin
Caiup Butler..
MattooD
A ton. Ills
Camp Butler..
Camp Butler..
Chicago
Quincy
CampButlcr. .
Camp Butler..
Quincy
CimpButler. .
Chicago
Camp^Butler. .
Camp Butler..
Chicago.
Chicago
Quir.cy
( .nmpBntler. .
Camp Butler..
Chicasro
842
849
835
878
871
842
fe51
665
1159
8S0
1056
1047
917
983
93^^
970
94.3
1076
994
929
973
985
903
91
90
86
CAAALRY.
3
4
5
6
I
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
Cot. Thomas A. Marshall. . . .
'• Silas Nob'e
" Eugene A . Carr
" T.Lyle Dickey
" John J. Updegraff
" Thomas U. Cavanaugh.
" Wm. Pitt Ke'logg . ....
" John F. Farnsworth.. ..
" Albert G. Brackett
" James A. Barrett
" Roberto. IngersoU. . ..
'• Arno Vo*s
" Joseph W.Bell
*' Horace Capron
" ^ arreu Stewart
•' Christian Thielman
" John L. Beveridge
62
June. 1861....
Aug. 24. " . .
Sept. 21, •' ..
Sept. 30. " ...
December " .
Nov., '61, Jan
August, "61.. ■
-ept. 18. '61
Oct. 26, '61
Nov. 25. 61
Dec. ax "61
Dec, -61. Feb.. "62,
Jan. 7, '63
Organized Dec. 25, '63.
Jan. and April, "fri. . . .
Jan. 28, '64
'Bloomiugton...
'Camp Butler ..
(Camp Butler...
I Ottawa
jCamp BiU'er. ..
Camp Butler...
Camp Butler. . .
St. t harles. . ..
Camp Douglas.
C.imp Butler...
Peoria
Cfimp Butler. .
Camp Douglas.
Peoria
Camp Bnt'er. . .
Camp Butler...
St. Charles
1206
1861
2l?3
1656
1669
2348
228'
2412
2619
l-!'34
2362
•2174
1759
1565
1473
1468
1247
FIRST REGIMENT— ILLINOIS LIGHT AETILLERY.
Co Field and Staff
A.Capt.
B
C
D
£
F
G
H
I
K
L
M
C. M.Willard
Ezra Taylor
C. Haughtalins
Edward Mc.Mlister.
A. C. Waterhouse..
John T. Cheney .. .
Arthur O'Leary
Axel Si'versparr
Edward Bouton. . .
A. Franklin
John Ronrke
John B.Miller
Recruits
Oct. 31,1P61
•Tan. 14. "62
Dec. 19, 'Ki
Feb. 2.3, ■6>
Feb. 28 "62 ^Cairn .
Feh. 20. '62 'Chicago
Feb. 15, ■6-> iChicago
Ian. 9, ■(i2 '^ji^^^nectown
Chicago
Chicago . ...
Ottawa
Plaiufield ....
Chicago . ...
Camp Butler.
Feb. 22, "62.
Aug. 12, '62
Chicaeo .
(- hicago .
168
204
175
141
148
159
113
147
169
?6
153
154
883
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
141
ScjHEDULE— Showing statement of volunteer troops organized witWn the State, and sent to the
field commencinL: April, 18G1, and ending Decembcr"3l, 1865, witli number of regiment, name
of original commnndinij officer, date of organization and muster into United States service,
place of muster, and the aggregate strength of each organization.
LIGHT ARTILLERY.
9
Commanding officer at organiza-
tion.
Date of organization and
muster into the United
States service.
Place where mustered
into the United States
service.
>
'if
To-
SECOND REGIMENT— ILLINOIS LIGHT ARTILLERY.
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
I
K
L
M
Capt.
Peter Davidson
Riley Madison
Caleb Hopkins
Jasper Al. Dresser
Adolph Schwartz
John W. Powell ..
Chiirles J. Stolbrand..
Andrew Steinbeck —
Charles W. Keith. ...
Benjamin F. Rogers..
William H Bolton....
John C. Phillips June 6, '63.
Field and Staff
Recruits
Aug. U, 1661 Peoria.
June 20, '61 ; Spri ngfield
Aug. 5, '61 Cairo
Dec. 17, '61 ICairo
Feb. 1, "62 'Cairo.
Dec. 11, '61.
Dec. 31, '61.
Feb. 28, '62.
Cape Girardeau, Mo...
Camp Butler
Camp Butler
Camp Butler
Camp Butler
Chicago
Chicago
116
127
154
117
136
190
108
115
107
108
145
100
10
1171
INDEPENDENT BATTERIES.
Board of Trade
Springfield
Mercantile —
Elgin
Coggswell'e...
Henshaw's —
Bridges'
Colvin's
Busteed's
Capt. James S. Stokes
Thomas F. Vaughn..
" Charles G. Cooley.. .
" George W. Reuwick.
" WiMam Coggswell..
" Ed. (\ Heushftw
" Lvman Bridges
" JohnH. Colvin
July 31, 1862 IChicago
Aug. 'VI, "62 iCamp Butler. .
Aug. 29. '63 iChicago
Nov. 1.", '62 Elgin
Sept 23, '61 ..Camp Douglas.
Oct. 15. '62 Ottawa
•Ian. 1. 62 Chicago
Oct. 10, '63 Chicago
IChicago
258
199
270
242
221
196
252
»l
127
RE C APITUL ATI ON .
I^f^ntry 185,941
Cavalry 3i 083
Artillery 7.277
DUELS.
The code of chivalry so common among Southern gentlemen
and so frequently brought into nse in settling personal differences
has also been called to settle the " affiiirs of honor " in our own
State, however, but few times, and those in the earlier days.
Several attempts at duels have occurred; before the disputants met
in mortal combat the differences were amicably and satisfactorily
settled; honor was maintained without the sacrifice of life. In
1810 a law was adopted to suppress the practice of dueling. This
law held the fatal result of dueling to be murder, and, as it was
intended, had the effect of making it odious and' dishonorable.
Prior to the constitution of 1848, parties w-ould evade the law by
142 HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS.
going beyond the jurisdiction of the State to engage in their con-
tests of honor. At that time they incorporated in the Constitution
an oath of (jffice, which was so broad as to cover the whole world.
Any person who had ever fought a duel, ever sent or accepted a
challenge or acted the part of second was disfranchised from holding
office, even of minor importance. After this went into eifect, no
other duel or attempt at a duel has been engaged in within the
State of Illinois, save those fought by parties living outside of
the State, who came here to settle their personal differences.
THE FIRST DUEL.
The first duel fought within the boundaries of this great State
was between two young military officers, one of the French and
the other of the English army, in the year 1765. It was at the
time the British troops came to take possession of Fort Chartres,
and a woman was the cause of it. The affair occurred early
Sunday morning, near the old fort. They fought with swords, and
in the combat one sacrificed his life.
BOND AND JONES.
In 1809 the next duel occurred and was bloodless of itself, but out
of it grew a quarrel which resulted in the assassination of one of
the contestants. The principals wei-e Shadrach Bond, the first
Governor, and Rice Jones, a bright young lawyer, who became quite
a politician and the leader of his party. A personal difference arose
between the two, which to settle, the parties met for mortal combat
on an island in the Mississippi. The weapons selected were hair-
trigger pistols. After taking their position Jones' weapon was
prematurely discharged. Bond's second, Dunlap, now claimed that
according to tlie code Bond had the right to the next fire. But
Bond would not take so great advantage of his opponent, and said
it was an accident and would not fire. Such noble conduct
touched the generous nature of Jones, and the difficulty was at
once amicably settled. Dunlap, however, bore a deadly hatred for
Jones, and one day while he was standing in the street in Kaskaskia,
conversing with a lady, lie crept up behind him and shot him dead
in his tracks. Dunlap successfully escaj^ed to Texas.
EECTOR AND BAKTON.
in 1812 the bloody code again brought two young men to the
field of honor. They were Thomas Eector, a son of Capt. Stephen
IIHliii.'lPlii. rjlilfSl
f fiMilnliiif'iN
'■ill'; I
'lip
o
I— (
? <
Q
n
Q
5?;
o
pi
M
Of 'I HE
MlVrft'ollV Cf ILLINOIS
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 145
Rector who bore such a noble part in the war of 1812, and Joshua
Barton. Thej liad espoused the quarrel of older brothers. The
affair occurred on Bloody Island, in the Mississippi, but in the
limits of Illinois. This place was frequented so often by Missou-
rians to settle personal difficulties, that it received the name of
Bloody Island. Barton fell in this conflict.
STEWART AND BENNETT.
In 1819 occurred the first duel fought after the admission of the
State into the Union. This took place in St. Clair county between
Alphonso Stewart and William Bennett. It was intended to be a
sham duel, to turn ridicule against Bennett, the challenging party-
Stewart was in the secret but Bennett was left to believe it a
reality. Their guns were loaded with blank cartridges. Bennett,
suspecting a trick, put a ball into his gun without the knowledge
of his seconds. The word "fire" \yas^ .given, and Stewart fell
mortally wounded. Bennett made, his escfape, but was subsequently
captured, convicted of murder and suffei'Cd' the penalty of the law
by hanging.
PEARSON AND BAKER.
In 1840 a personal difference arose between two State Senators,
Judge Pearson and E. D. Baker. The latter, smarting under the
epithet of " falsehood," threatened to chastise Pearson in the public
streets, by a " fist fight." Pearson declined making a "blackguard''
of himself but intimated a readiness to fight as gentlemen, accord-
ing to the code of honor. The affair, however, was carried no
further.
HARDIN AND DODGE.
The exciting debates in the Legislature in 1840-'41 were often
bitter in personal "slings," and threats of combats were not
infrequent. During these debates, in one of the speeches by the
Hon. J. J. Hardin, Hon. A. E. Dodge thought he discovered a
personal insult, took exceptions, and an " affair " seemed imminent.
The controversy was referred to friends, however, and amicably
settled.
m'clernand and smith.
Hon. John A. McClernand, a member of the House, in a speech
delivered during the same session made charges against the Whig
Judges of the Supreme Court. This brought a note from Judge
146 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
T. "W. Smith, bv the hands of his " friend '' Dr. Merriman, to
MeClernand. This was construed as a challenge, and promptly
accepted, naming the place of meeting to be Missouri; time, early;
the weapons, rifles; and distance, 40 paces. At this critical junc-
ture, the Attorney General had a warrant issued against the Judge,
whereupon he was arrested and placed under bonds to keep the
peace. Thus ended this attempt to vindicate injured honor.
LIXCOLX AND SHIELDS.
During the hard times subsequent to the failure of the State and
Other banks, in 1S4'2, specie became scarce while State money was
plentiful, but worthless. The State officers thereupon demanded
specie payment for taxes. This was bitterly op]xised, and so fiercely
contested that the collection of tiixes was suspended.
Daring the period of the greatest indignation toward the State
officials, under the nom de plume of "Rebecca,"' Abraham Lincoln
had an article published in the San^anw Journal, entitled " Lost
Township.'* In this article, written in the form of a dialogue, the
officers of the State were roughly handled, and especially Auditor
Shields. The name of the author was demaded from the editor by
Mr. Shields, who was very indignant over the manner in which he
was treated. The name of Abraham Lincoln was given as the
author. It is claimed by some of his biographers, however, that
the article was prepared by a lady, and that when the name of the
author was demanded, in a spirit of gallantry, Mr. Lincoln gave
his name. In company with Gen. Whiteside, Gen. Shields pur-
sued Lincoln to Tremont, Tazewell county, where he was in attend-
ance upon the court, and immediately sent him a note "requiring
a full, positive and absolute retraction of all offensive allusions''
made to him in relation to his "private character and standing as
a man, or an apology for the insult conveyed." Lincoln bad been
forewarned, however, for William Butler and Dr. Merriman. of
Springfield, had become acquainted with Shields' intentions and by
riding all night arrived at Tremont ahead of Shields and informed
Lincoln what he might expect Lincoln answered Shields' note,
refusing to offer any explanation, on the grounds that Shields' note
assumed the fact of his (Lincoln's) authorship of the article, and
not pointing out what the offensive part was. and accompanying the
same with threats as to consequences. Mr. Shields answered this,
disavowing all intention to menace: inquired if he was the author.
IlISTOKy OF ILLINOIS. 147
HHlccd a retraction of that portion relating to his private cliaracter.
Mr. Liacohi, still technical, returned this note with the verbal
statement " that tliere could be no further negotiations until the
first note was withdrawn." At this Shields named Gen. White-
side as his " friend," when Lincoln reported Dr. Merriman as his
"friend." These gentlemen secretly pledged themselves to ao'ree
upon some amicable terras, and compel their principals to accept
them. The four went to Springfield, when Lincoln left for Jack-
sonville, leaving the following instructions to guide his friend, Dr.
Merriman:
" In case Whiteside shall signify a wish to adjust this affair with-
out further difficulty, let him know that if the present papers be
withdrawn and a note from Mr. Shields, asking to know if I am the
author of the articles of which he complains, and asking that I shall
make him gentlemanly satisfaction, if I am the author, and this
without menace or dictation as to what that satisfaction shall be, a
pledge is made that the following answer shall be given:
I did write the "Lost Township " letter which appeared in the Journal of the
2d Inst., l)ut had no participation, in any form, in any other article alluding to
you. I wrote that wholly for political effect. I had no intention of injuring
your personal or private character or standing, as a man or gentleman ; and I did
not then think, and do not now thiuk, that that article could produce or has pro-
duced that effect against you; and, had I anticipated such an effect, would hive
foreborne to write it. And I will add thit your conduct toward me, so far a3 I
know, had always been gentlemanly, and that I had no personal pique against
you, and no cause for any. _
" If this should be done, I leave it to you to manage what shall
and what shall not be published. If nothing like this is done, the
preliminaries of the fight are to be:
" 1st. Weapons. — Cavalry broad swords of the largest size, pre-
cisely equal in all respects, and such as are now used by the cavalry
company at Jacksonville.
" 2d. Position. — A plank ten feet long and from nine to twelve
inches broad, to be firmly fixed on edge, on the ground, as a line
between us which neither is to pass his foot over on forfeit of his
life. Next a line drawn on the ground on either side of said plank,
and parallel with it, each at the distance of the whole length of the
sword, and three feet additional from the plank; and the passing of
his own such line by either party during the fight, shall be deemed
a surrender of the contest.
148 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
"3d. Time. — On Thursday evening at 5 o'clock, if you can p;et
it so; but in no case to be at a greater distance of time than Friday
evening at 5 o'clock.
"4tli. Place. — Within three miles of Alton, on the opposite
side of the river, the particular spot to be agreed on by you.
" Any preliminary details coming within the above rules, you are
at liberty to make at your discretion, but you are in no case to
swerve from these rules, or pass beyond their limits."
The position of the contestants, as prescribed by Lincoln, seems
to have been such as both would have been free from comino^ in
contact with the sword of the other, and the first impression is that
it is nothing more than one of Lincoln's jokes, tie possessed very
long arms, however, and could reach his adversary at the stipulated
distance.
Not being amicably arranged, all parties repaired to the field of
combat in Missouri. Gen. Hardin and Dr. English, as mutual
friends of both Lincoln and Shields, arrived in the meantime, and
after much correspondence at their earnest solicitation the affair
was satisfactorily arranged, Lincoln making a statement similar to
the one above referred to.
SHIELDS AXD BUTLER.
William Butler, one of Lincoln's seconds, was dissatisfied with
the bloodless termination of the Lincoln-Shields afiair, and wrote an
account of it for the Sangamo Journal. This article reflected dis-
creditably upon both the principals engaged in that controversy.
Shields replied by the hands of his friend Gen. Whiteside, in a
curt, menacing note, which was promptly accepted as a challenge
by Butler, and the inevitable Dr. Merriman named as his friend,
who submitted the following as preliminaries of the fight:
Time. — Sunrise on the following morning.
Place. — Col. Allen's farm (about one mile north of State House.)
Weapons. — Bifles.
Distance'. — One hundred yards.
The parties to stand with their right sides toward each other —
the rifles to be held in both hands horizontally and cocked, arras
extended downwards. Neither pai'ty to move his person or his
rifle after being placed, before the word fire. The signal to be:
"Are you ready? Fire! one — two— three!" about a second of
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 149
time intervening between each word. Neither party to fire before
the word " fire," nor after the word " three."
Gen. Whiteside, in language curt and abrupt, addressed a note to
Dr. Merriman declining to accept the terms. Gen. Sliields, how-
ever, addressed anotlier note to Butler, explaining the feelings of
his second, and ofi*ering to go out to a lonely place on the prairie to
figlit, where there would be no danger of being interrupted; or, if
that did not suit, he would meet him on his own conditions, when
and where he pleased. Butler claimed the affair was closed and
declined the proposition.
WHITESIDE AND MEKRIMAN.
Now Gen. Whiteside and Dr. Merriman, who several times had
acted in the capacity of friends or seconds, were to handle the
deadly weapons as principals. While second in the Shields-Butler
Jlasco, Wluteiide declined the terms proposed by Butler, in curt
and abrupt language, stating that tlie place of combat could not be
dictated to him, for it was as much his right as Merriman's, who,
if he was a gentleman, would recognize and concede it. To this
Merriman replied by the hands of Capt. Lincoln. It will be
remembered that Merriman had acted in the same capacity for Lin-
coln. Whiteside then wrote to Merriman, asking to meet him at
St. Louis, when he would hear from him further. To this Merri-
man replied, denying his right to name place, but offered to meet
in Louisiana, Mo. This Whiteside would not agree to, but later
signified his desire to meet him there, but the affair being closed,
the doctor declined to re-open it.
PRATT AND CAMPBELL.
These two gentlemen were members of the Constitutional Con-
vention of 1847, and both from Jo Davies county. A dispute arose
which ended in a challenge to meet on the field of honor. They
both repaired to St. Louis, but the authorities gaining knowledge
of their bloody intentions, had both parties arrested, w^iich ended
this " affair."
DKESS AND MANNERS.
The dress, habits, etc., of a people throw so much light upon their
conditions and limitations that in order better to show the circum-
stances surrounding the people of the State, we will give a short
150 HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS.
exposition of the manner of life of our Illinois people at different
epochs. The Indians themselves are credited by Charlevoix with
bein^ " very laborious," — raising poultry, spinning the wool of the
buffalo and manufacturing garments therefrom. These must have
been, however, more than usually favorable representatives of their
race.
" The working and voyaging dress of the French masses," says
Reynolds, "was simple and primitive. The French were like the
lilies of the valley (the Old Ranger was not always exact in his
quotations), — they neither spun nor wove any of their clothing, but
purchased it from the merchants. The white blanket coat, known
as the capot, was the universal and eternal coat for the winter with
the masses. A cape was made of it that could be raised over the
head in cold weather.
" In the house, and in good weather, it hung behind, a cape to
the blanket coat. The reason that I know these coats so well is,
that I have worn many in my youth, and a working man never wore
a better garment. Dressed deer-skins and blue cloth were worn
commonly in the winter for pantaloons. The blue handkerchief
and the deer-skin moccasins covered the head' and feet generally of
the French Creoles. In 1800, scarcely a man thought himself clothed
unless he iiad a belt tied around his blanket coat, and on one side
was hung the dressed skin of a pole-cat, tilled with tobacco, pipe,
flint and steel. On the other side was fastened, under the belt, the
the butcher-knife. A Creole in this dress felt like Tarn O'Shanter
tilled with usquebaugh; he could face the devil. Checked calico
shirts were then common, bul in winter flannel was frequently
worn. In the summer the laboring men and the voyagers often
took their shirts off in hard work and hot weather, and turned out
the naked back to the air and sun."
" Among the Americans," he adds, " home-made wool hats were
the common wear. Fur hats were not feommon, and scarcely a boot
was seen. The covering of the feet in winter was chiefly moccasins
made of deer-skins, and shoe packs of tanned leather. Some wore
shoes, but not common in very early times. In the summer the
greater portion of the young people, male and female, and many of
the old, went barefoot. The substantial and universal outside wear
was the blue linsey hunting-shirt. This is an excellent garment,
and I have never felt so happy and healthy since I laid it off. It is
! »■ I '
LIBRARV
OF THE
ilY OF ILliNOIS.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 153
made of wide sleeves, open before, with ample size so as to envelop
the body almost twice around. Sometimes it had a large cape,
which answers well to save the shoulders from the rain. A belt is
mostly used to keep the garment close around the person, and,
nevertheless, there is nothing tight about it to hamper the body.
It is often fringed, and at times the fringe is composed of red, and
other gay colors. The belt, frequently, is sewed to the hunting-shirt.
The vest was mostly made of striped linsey. The colors were made
often with alum, copperas and madder, boiled with the bark of trees,
in such a manner and proportions as the old ladies prescribed. The
pantaloons of the masses were generally made of deer-skin and
linsey. Course blue cloth was sometimes made into pantaloons.
" Linsey, neat and fine, manufactured at home, composed generally
the outside garments of the females as well as the males. The
ladies had linsey colored and woven to suit their faiicy. A bonnet,
composed of calico, or some gay goods, was worn on the head when
they were in the open air. Jewek-y- on the pioneer ladies was
uncommon; a gold ring wa^.g^n oniameVit not often seen."
In 1820 a change of dress began "to take place, and before 1830,
according to Ford, most of the pioneer costume had disappeared.
"The blue linsey hunting-shirt, with red or white fringe, had given
place to the cloth coat. [Jeans would be more like the fact.] The
raccoon cap, with the tail of the animal dangling down behind, had
been thrown aside for hats of wool or fur. Boots and shoes had
supplied the deer-skin moccasins; and the leather breeches, strapped
tight around the ankle, had disappeared before unmentionables of a
more modern material. The female sex had made still greater pro.
gress in dress. The old sort of cotton or woolen frocks, spun, woven
and made with their own fair hands, and striped and cross-barred
with blue dye and turkey red, had given place to gowns of silk and
calico. The feet, before in a state of nudity, now charmed in shoes
of calf-skin or slippers of kid; and the head, formerly unbonneted,
but covered with a cotto.i handkerchief, now displayed the charms
of the female face under many forms of bonnets of straw, silk and
leghorn. The young ladies, instead of walking a mile or. two to
church on Sunday, carrying their shoes and stockings in their hands
until within a hundred yards of the place of worship, as formerly,
now came forth arrayed complete in all the pride of dress, mounted
on fine horses and attended by their male admirers."
154 HISTORY or ILLINOIS.
The last half century has doubtless witnessed changes quite as
great as those set forth by our Illinois historian. The chronicler
of to day, looking back to the golden days of 1830 to 1840, and
comparing them with the present, must be struck with the tendency
of an almost monotonous uniformity in dress and manners that
comes from the easy inter communication afforded by steamer, rail-
way, telegraph and newspaper. Home manufacturers have been
driven from the household by the lower-priced fabrics of distant
mills. The Kentucky jeans, and the copperas-colored clothing of
home manufacture, so familiar a few years ago, have given place to
the cassi meres and cloths of noted factories. The ready-made-
clothing stores, like a touch of nature, made the whole world kin-
and may drape the charcoal man in a dress-coat and a stove-pipe
hat. The prints and silks of England and France give a variety of
choice, and an assortment of colors and shades such as the pioneer
women could hardly have dreamed of. Godey, and Demorest, and
Harper's Bazar are found in our modern farm-houses, and the latest
fashions of Paris are not uncommon.
PHYSICAL FEATURES OF ILLIXOIS.
In area the State has 55,410 square miles of territory. It is
about 150 miles wide and 400 miles long, stretching in latitude
from Maine to Xorth Carolina. 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 food of the world except bananas and rice. It is hardly
too much to say that it is the most productive spot known to civil-
ization. "With the soil full of bread and the earth full of minerals;
with an upper surface of food and an under layer of fuel; with per-
fect natural drainage, and abundant springs, and streams, and navi-
gable rivers; half way between the forests of the Korth and the
fruits of the South; within a day's ride of the great deposits of
iron, coal, copper, lead and zinc; and 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.
There are no mountains in Illinois; in the southern as well as in
the northern part of the State there are a few hills; near the banks
of the Illinois, Mississippi, and several other rivers, the ground is
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 155
elevated, forming the so-called bluffs, on which at the present day
may be found, unetfaced by the hand of Time, the marks and traces
left by the water which was formerly much higher; whence it may
be safe to conclude that, where now the fertile prairies of Illinois
extend, and the rich soil of the country yields its golden harvests,
must have been a vast sheet of water, the mud deposited l)y which
formed the soil, thus accounting for the present great fertility of the
country.
Illinois is a garden 400 miles long and 150 miles wide. Its soil
is chiefly a black, sandy loam, from 6 inches to 60 feet thick. About
the old French towns it has yielded corn for a century and a half
without rest or help. She leads all other States in the number
of acres actually under plow. Her mineral wealth is scarcely
second to her agricultural power. She has coal, iron, lead, zinc,
copper, many varieties of building stone, marble, fire clay, cuma
clay, common brick clay, sand of all kinds, gravel, mineral paint, —
in fact, everything needed for a high civilization.
AGRICULTURE.
If any State of the Union is adapted for agriculture, and the other
branches of rural economy relating thereto, such as the raising of
cattle and the culture of fruit trees, it is pre-eminently Illinois,
Her extremely fertile prairies recompense the farmer at less
trouble and expense than he would be obliged to incur elsewhere, in
order to obtain the same results. Her rich soil, adapted by nature
for immediate culture, only awaits the plow and the seed in order
to mature, within a few months, a most bountiful harvest, A
review of statistics will be quite interesting to the reader, as well as
valuable, as showing the enormous quantities of the various cereals
produced in our prairie State:
In 18 T6 there was raised in the State 130,000,000 of bushels of
corn, — twice as much as any other State, and one-sixth of all the corn
raised in the United States. It would take 375,000 cars to transport
this vast amount of corn 1o market, which would make 15,000 trains
of 25 cars each. She liarvested 2,747,000 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-
156 HISTORY OF ILLINv>IS.
Go to Charleston, S. C, and see them peddling handfuls of hay or
grass, almost as a curiosity, as we regard Chinese gods or the cryo-
lite of Greenland; drink your coffee and condensed milk; and walk
back from the coast for many a league through the sand and burs
till you get up into the better atmosphere of the mountains, with-
out seeing a waving meadow or a grazing herd; then you will begin
to appreciate tlie meadows of tlie Prairie State.
The value of her farm implements was, in 1876, $211,000,000,
and the value of live stock was only second to New York. The
same year she had 25,000,000 hogs, and packed 2,113,845, about
one-half of all that were packed in the United States. She marketed
$57,000,000 worth of slaughtered animals, — more than any other
State, and a seventh of all tlie States.
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.
Illinois was only second in many important matters, taking the
reports of 1876. Tliis sample list comprises a few of the more
important: Peripanent school fund; total income for educational
purposes; number of publishers of books, maps, papers, etc.; value
of farm products and implements, and of live stock; in tons of coal
mined.
The shipping of Illinois was only second to New York. Out of
one port daring the business hours of the season of navigation she
sent forth a vessel every nine minutes. This did not include canal-
boats, which went one every five minutes.
No wonder she was only second in number of bankers or in phy-
sicians and suro^eons.
She was third in colleges, teachers and schools; also in cattle,
lead, hay, flax, sorghum and beeswax.
She was fourth in population, in children enrolled in public
schools, in law schools, in butter, potatoes and carriages.
She was fifth in value of real and personal property, in theologi-
cal seminaries, and colleges exclusively for women, in milk sold,
and in boots and shoes manufactured, and in book-binding.
She was only seventh in the production of wood, while she was
the twelfth in area. Surely that was well done for the Prairie State.
She then had, in 1876, much more wood and growing timber than
she had thirty years before.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. ;157
A few leading industries will justify emphasis. She manufactured
$205,000,000 worth of goods, which placed her well up toward
New York and Pennsylvania. The number of her manufacturing
establishments increased from 1860 to 1870, 300 per cent. ; capital
employed increased 350 per cent.; and the amount of product in-
creased 400 per cent. She issued 5,500,000 copies of commercial
and financial newspapers, being only second to New York. She had
6,759 miles of railroad, then leading all other States, worth $636,-
458,000, using 3,245 engines, and 67,712 cars, making a train long
enouirh to cover one-tenth of the entire roads of the State. Her
stations were only five miles apart. She carried, in 1876, 15,795,-
000 passengers an average of 36|- miles, or equal to taking her
entire population twice across the State. More tlian two-thirds of
her land was within five miles of a railroad, and less than two per
cent, was more than fifteen miles away
The State has a large financial interest in the Illinois Central
railroad. The road was incorporated m 1850, and the State gave
each alternate section for six miles on each side, and doubled the
price of the remaining land, so keeping herself good. The road
received 2,595,000 acres of land, and paid to the State one-seventh
of the gross receipts. The State received in 1877, $350,000, and
had received up to that year in all about $7,000,000. It was prac-
tically the people's road, and it had a most able and gentlemanly
management. Add to the above amount the annual receipts from
the canal, $111,000, and a large per cent, of the State tax was pro-
vided foro
GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.
Shadrach Bond — Was the first Governor of Illinois. He was a
native of Maryland and born in 1773; was raised on a farm; re-
ceived a common English education, and came to Illinois in 1794
He served as a delegate in Congress from 1811 to 1815, where he
procured the right of pre-emption of public land. He was elected
Governor in 1818; was beaten for Congress in 1824 by Daniel P.
Cook He died at Kaskaskia, April 11, 1830.
Edward Coles — Was born Dec. 15, 1786, in Virginia. His father
was a slave-holder; gave his son a collegiate education, and left to
him a large number of slaves. These he liberated, giving each
head of a family 160 acres of land and a considerable sum of money.
158 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
He was President Madison's private secretary. He came to Illinois
in 1819, was elected Governor in 1S22, on the anti-slaver j ticket;
moved to Philadelphia in 1833, and died in 1868.
Ninian Edwards. — In 1809, on the formation of the Territory of
Illinois, Mr. Edwards was appointed Governor, which position he
retained until the organization of the State, when he was sent to
the United States Senate. Ho was elected Governor in 1826. He
was a native of Maryland and bora in 1775; received a collegiate
education; was Chief Justice of Kentucky, and a Republican in
politics.
John Reynolds — AVas born in Pennsylvania in 1788, and came
with his j)arents to Illinois in 1800, and in 1830 was elected Gov-
ernor on the Democratic ticket, and afterwards served three terras
in Congress. He received a classical education, yet was not polished.
He was an ultra Democrat; attended the Charleston Conv^ention in
1860, and urged the seizure of United States arsenals by the
South. He died in 1865 at Belleville, childless.
Josep/i Duncan. — In 183i Joseph Duncan was elected Governor
by the Whigs, although formerly a Democrat. He had previously
served four terms in Congress. He was born in Kentucky in 1794;
had but a limited education; served with distinction in the war of
1812; conducted the campaign of 1832 against Black Hawk. He
came to Illinois when quite young.
Thomas Carlin — "Was elected as a Democrat in 1838. He had
but a meager education; held many minor offices, and was active
both in the war of 1812 and the Black Hawk war. He was born in
Kentucky in 1789; came to Illinois in 1812, and died at Carrollton,
Feb. 14, 1852.
Thomas Ford — Was born in Pennsvlvania in the year 1800; was
brought by his widowed mother to Missouri in 1804, and shortly
afterwards to Illinois. He received a good education, studied law;
was elected four times Judge, twice as Circuit Judge, Judge of
Chicago and Judge of Supreme Court. He was elected Governor
by the Democratic party in 1842; wrote his history of Illinois in
1847 and died in 1850.
Augustus C. French — Was born in New Hampshire in 1808;
was admitted to the bar in 1831, and shortly afterwards moved to
Illinois when in 1846 he was elected Governor. On tlie adoption
of the Constitution of 1848 he was again chosen, serving until 1853.
He was a Democrat m politics.
HISTOKY OF ILLINOIS.
159
Joel A. Matteson — Was born in Jefferson county, IT. Y., in 1808.
His father was a fanner, and gave his son only a common school
education. He first entered upon active life as a small tradesman,
but subsequently became a large contractor and manufacturer. He
was ^ heavy contractor in building the Canal. He was elected Gov-
ernor in 1853 upon the Democratic ticket.
William H. Bissell — Was elected by the Republican party in
1856, He had previously served two terms in Congress; was
colonel in the Mexican war and has held minor official positions. He
was born in J^ew York State in 1811; received a common educa-
tion; came to Illinois early in life and engaged in the medical j)ro-
fession. This he changed for the law and became a noted orator,
and the standard bearer of the Republican party in Illinois. He
died in 1860 while Governor.
Richard ITates — "The war Governor of Illinois," was born in
Warsaw, Ky., in 1818; came to Illinois in 1831: served two terms
in Congress; in 1860 was elected Governor, and in 1865 United
States Senator. He was a college graduate, and read law under J. J.
Hardin. He rapidly rose in his chosen profession and charmed the
people with oratory. He filled the gubernatorial chair during the
trying days of the Rebellion, and by his energy and devotion won
the title of " War Governor." He became addicted to strong drink,
and died a drunkard.
Richard J. Ogleshy — Was born in 1824, in Kentucky; an orphan
at the age of eight, came to Illinois when only 12 years old. He
was apprenticed to learn the carpenter's trade; worked some at
farming and read law occasionally. He enlisted in the Mexican
War and was chosen First Lieutenant. After his return he again
took up the law, bufe during the gold fever of 1819 went to Califor-
nia; soon returned, and, in 1852, entered upon his illustrious
political career. He raised the second regiment in the State, to
suppress the Rebellion, and for gallantry was promoted to Major
General. In 1864 he was elected Governor, and re-elected in 1872,
and resigned for a seat in the United States Senate. He is a staunch
Republican and resides at Decatur.
Shelby M. Cullom — Was born in Kentucky in 1828; studied
law, was admitted to the bar, and commenced the practice of his
profession in 1848; was elected to the State Legislature in 1856,
and again in 1860. Served on the war commission at Cairo, 1862,
10 ' HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
and was a member of the 39th, 40th and 41st Congress, in all of which
he served with credit to his State. He was again elected to the
State Legislature in 1872, asd re-elected in 1874, and was elected
Governor of Illinois in 1876, which office he still holds, and has
administered with marked ability. ,
LIEUTENANT GOVEKNOES.
Pierre Menard — Was the first Lieut. Gov. of Illinois. He was
born in Quebec, Canada, in 1767. He came to Illinois in 1790
where he engaged in the Indian trade and became wealthy. He
died in 1844. Menard county was named in his honor.
Adolphus F . Hiibbard — Was elected Lieut. Gov. in 1822. Four
years later he ran for Governor against Edwards, but was beaten.
William Kinney — Was elected in 1826. He was a Baptist
clergyman; was born in Kentucky in 1781 and came to Illinois in
1793.
Zadock Casey — Although on the opposition ticket to Governor
Reynolds, the successful Gubernatorial candidate, yet Casey was
elected Lieut. Gov. in 1830. He subsequently served several terms
in Congress.
Alexander M. Jenkins — Was elected on ticket with Gov. Duncan
in 1834 by a handsome majority.
S. H. Anderson — Lieut. Gov. under Gov. Cariin, was chosen in
1838. He was a native of Tennessee.
John Moore — Was born in England in 1793; came to Illinois in
1830; was elected Lieut. Gov. in 1842. He won the name of
" Honest John Moore."
Joseph B. Wells — Was chosen with Gov. French at his first
election m 1846.
William McMurtry. — In 1848 when Gov. French was again
chosen Governor, William McMurtry of Knox county, was elected
Lieut. Governor.
Gustavus P. Koerner — Was elected in 1852. He was born in
Germany in 1809. At the age of 22 came to Illinois. In 1872 he
was a candidate for Governor on Liberal ticket, but was defeated.
John Wood — Was elected in 1856, and on the death of Gov,
Bissell became Governor.
Francis A. Hoffman — Was chosen with Gov. Yates in 1860.
He was born in Prussia in 1822, and came to Illinois in 1840.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
161
William Bross — "Was born in New Jersey, came to Illinois in
1848, was elected to office in 1864.
John Dougherty — Was elected in 1868.
John L. Beveredge — Was chosen Lieut. Gov. in 1872. In 1873
Oglesbj was elected to the U. S. Senate when Beveridge became
Governor.
Andrew Shuman — Was elected Nov. 7, 1876, and is the present
incumbent.
SUPERINTENDENT OF PUBLIC INSTRUCTION.
Ninian W. Edwards 1854-56
W. H. Powell 1857-58
Newton Batemaa 1859-75
Samuel M. Etter 1876
ATTORNEY GENERALS.
Daniel P. Cook 1819
William Hears 1820
Samuel D. Lockwood 1821-22
James Turney 1823-28
George Forquer 1829-32
James Semple , 1833-34
Ninian E. Edwards 1834-35
Jesse B. Thomas, Jr 1835
Walter B. Scales 1836
Asher F. Linder 1837
Geo. W. Olney 1838
Wickliffe Kitchell 1839
Josiali Lamborn 1841-42
James A. McDougall 1843-46
David B. Campbell 1846
[Office abolished and re-created in 1867]
Robert G. Ingersoll 1867-68
Washington Bushnell 1869-72
James K. Edsall 1873-79
TREASURERS.
John Thomas '. . . .1818-19
R. K. McLaughlin 1819-22
Ebner Field 1823-26
James Hall 18'27-30
John Dement 1831-36
Charles Gregory 1836
John D. Whiteside 1837-40
M. Carpenter 1841-48
John Moore 1848-56
James Miller 1857-60
William Butler 1861-62
Alexander Starne 1863-64
James H. Beveridge 1865-66
George W. Smith 1867-68
Erastus N. Bates 1869-72
Edward Rutz 1873-75
Thomas S. Ridgeway 1876-77
Edward Rutz 1878-79
SECRETARIES OP STATE.
Elias K. Kane 1818-22
Samuel D. Lockwood 1822-23
David Blackwell 1823-24
Morris Birkbeck 1824
George Forquer 1825-28
Alexander P. Field 1829-40
Stephen A. Douglas 1840
Lyman Trumbull 1841-42
Thompson Campbell 1843-46
Horace S. Cooley 1846-49
David L. Gregg 1850-52
Alexander Starne 1853-56
Ozias M. Hatch 1857-60
Sharon Tyndale 1865-68
Edward Rummel 1869-72
George H. Harlow 1873-79
162 HISTOKV OF ILLINOIS.
AUDITORS.
Elijah C. Berry 1818-31 Thompson Campbell 1846
I. T. B. Stapp 1831-35 Jesse K. Dubois 1857-64
Levi Davis 1835-40 Orlin H. Miner 1865-68
James Shields 1841-43 ' Charles E. Lippencott 1869-76
\V. L. D. Evving 1843-45 Thompson B. Needles 1877-79
UNITED STATES SENATORS.
Ninian Edwards. — On the organization of the State in 181S,
Edwards, the popular Territorial Governor, was chosen Senator for
the short term, and in 1819 re-elected for full terra,
Jesse B. Thomas — One of the federal judges during the entire
Territorial existence was chosen Senator on organization of the
. State, and re-elected in 1S23, and served till 1829.
John McLean — In 1824 Edwards resigned, and McLean was
elected to fill his unexpired term. He was born in North Carolina
in 1791, and came to Illinois in 1815; served one term in Congress,
and in 1829 was elected to the IT. S. Senate, but the following year
died. He is said to have been the most gifted man of his period in
Illinois.
Elias Kent Kane — Was elected Nov. 30, 1824, for the term be-
ginning March 4, 1825. In 1830 he was re-elected, but died before
the expiration of his term. He was a native of New York, and in
1814 came to Illinois. He was first Secretarv of State, and after-
wards State Senator.
David Jewett Baker — Was appointed to fill the unexpired term
of John McLean, in 1830, Nov. 12, but the Legislature refused to
endorse the choice. Baker was a native of Connecticut, born in
1792, and died in Alton in 1869.
John M. Robinson. — Instead of Baker, the Governor's appointee,
the Legislature chose Robinson, and in 1^34 lie was re-elected. In
1843 was elected Supreme Judge of the State, but within two
months died. He was a native of Kentucky, and came to Illinois
while quite young.
William L. D. Ewing — Was elected in 1835, to fill the vacancy
occasioned by the death of Kane. He was a Kentuckian.
Richard M. Yovng — Was elected in 1836, and held his seat
from March 4, 1837, to March 4, 1843, a full term. He was a
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 163
native of Kentucky; was Circuit Judge before his election to the
Senate, and Supreme Judge in 1842. He died in an insane asyhim
at Washington.
Samuel Mc Roberts — The first native Illinoisian ever elevated to
the high office of U. S. Senator from this State, was born in 1799,
and died in 1843 on his return home from Wasliington. Pie was
elected Circuit Judge in 1824, and March 4, 1841, took his seat in
the IT. S. Senate.
Sidney Breese — Was elected to the U. S. Senate, Dec. 17, 1842,
and served a full term. He was born in Oneida county, N. Y.
He was Major in the Black Hawk war; Circuit Judge, and in 1841
was elected Supreme Judge. He served a full term in the TJ. S.
Senate, beginning March 4, 1843, after which he was elected to the
Legislature, again Circuit Judge, and, in 1857, to the Supreme
Court, which position he held until his death in 1878.
James Semjjle — Was the successor of Samuel McRoberts, and"
was appointed by Gov. Ford in 1843. He was afterwards elected
Judge of the Supreme Court.
Stephen A. Douglas — Was elected Dec. 14, 1846. He had pre-
viously served three terms as Congressman. He became his own
successor in 1853 and ao^ain in 1859. From his first entrance in the
Senate he was acknowledged the peer of Clay, Webster and Cal-
houn, with whom he served liis first term. His famous contest
with Abraham Lincoln for the Senate in 1858 is the most memor-
able in the annals of our country. It was called the battle of the
giants, and resulted in Douglas' election to the Senate, and Lincoln
to the Presidency. He was born in Brandon, Vermont, April 23,
1813, and came to Illinois in 1833, and died in 1861. He was
appointed Secretary of State by Gov. Carlin in 1840, and shortly
afterward to the Supreme Bench.
James Shields — Was elected and assumed his seat in the U. S.
Senate' in 1849, March 4. He was born in Ireland in 1810, came
to the United States in 1827. He served in the Mexican army, was
elected Senator from Wisconsin, and in 1879 from Missouri for a
short term.
Ijyuian Trumhull — Took his seat in the (J. S. Senate March 4,
1855, and became his own successor in 1861. He had previously
served one term in the Lower House of Congress, and served on
the Supreme Bench. He was born in Connecticut; studied law
164 HISTORY OF ILLraOTS.
and came to Illinois early in life, where for years he was actively
engaged in politics. He resides in Chicago.
Orvill H. Browning — Was appointed U. S. Senator in 1861, to
fill the seat made vacant by the death of Stephen A, Douglas, until
a Senator could be regularly elected. Mr. Browning was born in
Harrison county, Kentucky; was admitted to the bar in 1831, and
settled in Quincy, Illinois, where he engaged in the practice of law,
and was instrumental, with his friend, Abraham Lincoln, in form-
ing the Republican party of Illinois at the Bloomington Conven-
tion. He entered Johnson's cabinet as Secretary of the Interior,
and in March, 1868, was designated by the President to perform the
duties of Attorney General, in addition to his own, as Secretary of
the Interior Department.
William A. Richardson — Was elected to the U. S. Senate in
1863, to fill the unexpired term of his friend, Stephen A Douglas.
He was born in Fayette county, Ky., about 1810, studied law,
and settled in Illinois; served as captain in the Mexican War, and,
on the battle-field of Buena Vista, was promoted for bravery, by a
unanimous vote of his regiment. He served in the Lower House
of Congress from 1847 to 1856, continually.
Richard Yates — Was elected to the U. S. Senate in 1865, serv-
ing a full term of six years. He died in St. Louis, Mo., Nov. 27,
1873.
John A. Logan — Was elected to the U. S. Senate in 1871. He
was born in Jackson county, 111., Feb. 9, 1826, received a common \
school education, and enlisted as a private in the Mexican War,
where he rose to the rank of Regimental Quartermaster. On
returning home he studied law, and came to the bar in 1852; was
elected in 1858 a Representative to the 36th Congress and re-elected
to the 37th Congress, resigning in 1861 to take part in the sup-
pression of the Rebellion; served as Colonel and subsequently as a
Major General, and commanded, with distinction, the armies of
the Tennessee. He was again elected to the U. S. Senate in 1879
for six years.
David Davis — Was elected to the U. S. Senate in 1877 for a term
of six years. He was born in Cecil county, Md., March 9, 1815,
graduated at Kenyon College, Ohio, studied law, and removed to
Illinois in 1835; was admitted to the bar and settled in Bloominj?-
ton, where he has since resided and amassed a large fortune. He
\
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 165
was for many years the intimate friend and associate of Abraham
Lincoln, rode the circuit with him each year, and after Lincohi's
election to the Presidency, was appointed by him to fill the position
of Judge of the Supreme Court of the United States.
REPRESENTATIVES IN CONGRESS.
FIFTEENTH CONGRESS. NINETEENTH CONGRESS.
John McLean 1818 Daniel P. Cook 1825-26
SIXTEENTH CONGRESS. TWENTIETH CONGRESS.
Daniel P. Cook 1819-20 Joseph Duncan 1827-28
SEVENTEENTH CONGRESS. TWENTY-FIRST CONGRESS.
Daniel P. Conk 1821-22 Joseph Duncan 1829-30
EIGHTEENTH CONGRESS. TWENTY-SECOND CONGRESS.
Daniel P. Cook 1823-24 Joseph Duncan 1831-32
TWENTY-THIRD CONGRESS.
Joseph Duncan 1833-34 Zadock Casey 1833-34
TWENTY-FOURTH CONGRESS.
Zadock Casey 1835-36 William L. May 1835-36
John Reynolds 1835-36
TWENTY-FIFTH CONGRESS.
Zadock Casey 1837-38 William L. May 1837-38
John Reynolds 1837-38
, TWENTY-SIXTH CONGRESS.
Zadock Casey.. . , 1839-40 John T. Stuart 1839-40
John Reynolds 1839-40
TWENTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS.
Zadock Casey 1841-42 John T. Stuart 1841-42
John Reynolds 1841^2
TWENTY-EIGHTH CONGRESS.
Robert Smith 1843-44 Joseph P. Hoge 1843-44
Orlando B. Finklin 1843-44 John J. Hardin 1843-44
Stephen A. Douglas 1843-44 John Wentworth 1843-44
John A. McClernand 1843-44
TWENTY-NINTH CONGRESS.
Robert Smith 1845-46 Joseph P. Hoge 1845-46
Stephen A. Douglas 1845-4G John A. McClernand 1845-46
Orlando B. Finklin 1845-46 John Wentworth 1845-46
John J. Hardin 1845
THIRTIETH CONGRESS.
John Wentworth 1847-48 Orlando B. Finklin 1847-48
Thomas J. Turner 1847 Robert Smith 1847-48
Abraham Lincoln. 1847-48 William A. Richardson 1847-48
John A. McClernand 1847-48
]6A llISTORr Oti" iLLlKOI&»
THrRTT-FIRST CONGRESS.
John A. McCiernand 1849-50 Edward D. Baker 1849-50
John Wentworth 1849-50 William H. Bissell 1849-50
Timothy R. Young 1849-50 Thomas L. Harris 1849
William A. Richardson 1849-50
THIRTY-SECOND CONGRESS.
William A. Richardson 1851-52 Richard Yates 1851-52
Thompson Campbell 1851-52 Richard S. Maloney 1851-52
Orlando B. Finkliu 1851-52 Willis 1851-52
John Wentworth 1851-52 William H. Bissell 1851-52
THIRT'^'-THIRD CONGRESS.
William H. Bissell 1853-54 Thompson Campbell 1853-54
John C. Allen 1853-54 ^^-James Knox 1853-54
Willis 1853-54 ' Jesse O. Norton 1853-54
Elihu B. Washburne. 1853-54 William A. Richardson 1863-54
Richard Yates 1853-54
THIRTY-FOXniTH CONGRESS
Elihu B. Washburne 1855-56 Samuel S. Marshall 1855-56
Lyman Trumbull 1855-56 J. L. D. Morrison.. 1855-56
James H. Wood worth 1855-56 John C. Allen 1855—56
James Knox • . 1855-56 Jesse O. Xorton 1855-56
Thompson Campbell 1855-56 William A. Richardson 1855-56
THIRTY-FIFTH CONGRESS.
Elihu B. Washburne 1857-58 Samuel S. Marshall 1857-58
Charles D. Hodges 1857-58 Isaac N. Morris 1857-58
William Kellogg 1857-58 Aaron Shaw 1857-58
Thompson Campbell 1857-58 Robert Smith 1857-58
John F. Farnsworth 1857-58 Thomas L. Harris 1857-58
Owen Lovejoy 1857-58
THIRTY-SIXTH CONGRESS.
Elihu B. Washburne 1859-60 John F. Farnsworth 1859-60
John A.Logan 1859-60 Philip B. Fouke 1859-60
Owen Lovejoy 1859-60 Thomas L. Harris 1859-60
John A. McCiernand ia59-60 William Kellogg 1859-60
Isaac N Morris 1859-60 James C. Robinson 1859-60
THIRTY-SEVENTH CONGRESS.
Elihu B. Washburne 1861-62 Isaac X. Arnold 1861-62
James C. Robinson 1861-62 Philip B. Fouke 1861-62
John A. Logan 1861-62 William Kellogg 1861-62
Owen Lovejoy 1861-62 Anthony L. Knapp 1861-62
John A. McCiernand 1861-62 Williaui A. Richardson 1861-62
THIRTY-EIGHTH CONGRESS.
Elihu B. Washburne 1863-64 William J. Allen 1863-64
Jesse O. Norton 1863-64 Isaac N. Arnold 1863-64
.James C. Robinson 1863-64 John R. Eden 1863-64
CENTRAL HOSPITAL FOR THE INSANE, JACKSONVILLE.
>
ILLIXOIS.INDUSTRIAL rNIVERSITY, CHAMPAIGN-FOUNDED BY^TIIE STATE
ENDOWED BY CONGRESS.
UBRARY
OF THE
■'^fVE^biTY OF ILliNOIS
History of Illinois.
169
Lewis W. Ross 1863-64
John T. Stuart 1863-64
Owen Lovejoy 1863-64
William R. Morrison 1863-64
John C. Allen 1863-64
John F. Farnsworth 1863-64
Charles W. Morris 1863-64
Eben C. Ingersoll 1863-64
Anthony L. Klnapp 1863-64
THIRTY-NINTH CONGRESS.
Elihu B. Washburne 1865-66
Anthony B. Thornton 1865-66
John Wentworth 1865-66
Abner C. Hardin 1865-66
Eben C. Ingersoll 1865-66
Barton C. Cook 1865-66
Shelby M. Cullom 1865-66
John F. Farnsworth 1865-66
Jehu Baker 1865-66
Henry P. H. Bromwell 1865-66
Andrew Z. Kuykandall 1865-66
Samuel S. Marshall 1865-66
Samuel W. Moulton 1865-66
Lewis W. Ross 1865-66
FORTIETH CONGRESS.
Elihu B. Washburne 1867-68
Abner C. Hardin .1867-68
Eben C. Ingersoll 1867-68
Norman B. Judd 1867-68
Albert G. Burr 1867-68
Burton C. Cook 1867-68
John F. Farnsworth 1867-68
Jehu Baker 1867-68
Henry P. H. Bromwell 1867-68
John A Logan 1867-68
Samuel S. Marshall 1867-68
Green B. Raum 1867-63
Shelby M. Oullom 1867-68 , Le^is W. Ross 1867-68
FORTY-FIRST ; CONGRESS.
Norman B. Judd 1869-70
John F. Farnsworth 1869-70
H. C. Burchard 1869-70
John B. Hawley 1869-70
Eben C. Ingersoll 1869-70
Burton C. Cook 1869-70
Jesse H. Moore 1869-70
Shelby- M. Cullom 1869-70
Thomas W. McNeely 1869-70
Albert G. Burr 1869-70
Samuel S. Marshall 1869-70
John B. Hay 1869-70
John M. Crebs 1869-70
John A. Logan .1869-70
FORTY-SECOND CONGRESS.
Charles B. Farwell ' 1871-72
John F. Farnsworth :i871-73
Horatio C. Burchard 1871-72
John B. Hawley 1871-72
Bradford N. Stevens 1871-72
Henry Snapp 1871-72
Jesse H. Moore 1871-72
James C Robinson 1871-72
Thomas W. McNeely 1871-72
Edward Y. Rice 1871-72
Samuel S. Marshall 1871-72
John B. Hay 1871-72
John M. Crebs .• 1871-72
John S. Beveredge 1 871-73
FORTY-TUIRD CONGRESS.
John B. Rice 1873-74
Jasper D. Ward 1873-74
Charles B. Farwell 1873-74
Stephen A. Hurlbut 1873-74
Horatio C. Burchard 1873-74
John B. Hawlej^ 1873-74
Robert M. Knapp 1873-74
James C. Robinson 1873-74
John B. McNulta 1873-74
.Joseph G. Cannon 1873-74
John R. Eden .1873-74
James S. Martin 1873-74
Franklin Corwin 1873-74 William R. Morrison 1873-74
1^0
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
Greenbury L. Fort .1873-74
Granville Barrere l8'<'3-74
William H. Ray 1873-74
Isaac Clements 1873-74
Samuel S. Marshall 1873-74
FORTY-FOCRTH CONGRESS.
Bernard G. Caulfield 1875-76
Carter H. Harrison 1875-76
Charles B. Farwell 1875-76
Stephen A. Hurlbut 1875-76
Horatio C. Burchard 1875-76
Thomas J. Henderson 1875-76
Alexander Campbell 1875-76
Greenbury L. Fort 1875-76
Richard H. Whiting 1875-76
John C. Bagby . . . . .^ 1875-76
FORTY-FIFTH
William Aldrich 1877-78
Carter H. Harrison 1877-78
Lorenzo Brentano 1877-78
William Lathrop 1877-78
Horatio C. Burchard 1877-78
Thomas J. Henderson 1877-78
Philip C Hayes 1877-78
Greenbury L. Fort 1877-78
Thomas A. Boyd 1877-78
Benjamin F. Marsh 1877-78
FORTY-SIXTH CONGRESS.
Scott Wike ,....1875
William M. Springer 1875
Adlai E. Stevenson 1875
Joseph G. Cannon 1875
John R. Eden 1875
W. A. J. Sparks 1875
William R. Morrison 1875
William Hartzell 1875
William B. Anderson 1875
CONGRESS.
Robert M. Knapp 1877-
William M. Springer 1877-
Thomas F. Tipton 1877-
Joseph G. Cannon 1877-
John R. Eden 1877-
W. A. J. Sparks 1877-
William R. Morrison 1877-
William Hartzell 1877-
Richard W. Townshend 1877
-76
76
76
-76
-76
76
76
76
76
-78
-78
-78
-78
■78
-78
-78
-78
-78
William Aldrich 1879-80
George R. Davis 1879-80
Hiram Barber 1879-80
John C. Sherwin 1879-80
R. M. A. Hawk 1879-80
Thomas J. Henderson 1879-80
Philip C. Hayes 1879-80
Greenbury L. Fort 1879-80
Thomas A. Boyd 1879-80
Benjamin F. Marsh 1879-80
James W. Singleton 1879-80
William M. Springer 1879-80
A. E. Stevenson 1879-80
Joseph G. Cannon 1879-80
Albert P. Forsythe 1879-80
W. A. J. Sparks 1879-80
William R. IMorrison 1879-80
John R. Thomas 1879-80
R. W. Townshend 1879-80
CHICAGO.
While we cannot, in tlie brief space we have, give more than a
ineaircr sketch of such a city as Chicago, yet we feel the historj of
tlic State would be incomplete without speaking of it> metropolis,
the most wonderful city on the globe.
In comparing Chicago as it was a few years since with Chicago
of to-dav, we behold a change whose veritable existence we should
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 171
be inclined to doubt were it not a stern, indisputable fact. Kapid
as is the customary development of places and things in the United
States, the growth of Chicago and her trade stands without a parallel.
The city is situated on the west shore of Lake Michigan at the
mouth of the Chicago river. It lies 14 feet above the lake, having
been raised to that grade entirely by the energy of its citizens, its
site having originally been on a dead level with the water of the
lake.
The citj'- extends north and south along the lake about ten miles,
and westward on the praii-ie from the lake five or six miles, embrac-
ing an area of over 40 square miles. It is divided by the river
into three distinct parts, known as the North, West and South
Divisions, or "Sides," by vvliich they are popularly and commonly
known.. These are connected by 33 bridges and two tunnels.
The first settlement of Chicago was made in 1804, during which
year Fort Dearborn was lni.ilt. At the close of 1830 Chicago con-
tained 12 houses, with a population of about 100. The town was
organized in 1833, and incorporated as a- city in 1837. The first
frame building was erected in 18o2, and the first brick house in
1833. The first vessel entered the harbor June 11, 1834; and at
the first official census, taken July 1, 1837, the entire population
was found to be 4,170. In 1850 the population had increased to
29,963; in 1860, to 112,172; in 1870, 298,977; and, according to
the customary mode of reckoning from the number of names in
the City Directory, the population of 1879 is over 500,000.
Nicholas Perrot, a Frenchman, was the first white man to visit
the site of Chicago. This he did in 1671, at the instigation of M.
Toulon, Governor of Canada. He was sent to invite the Western
Indians to a convention at Green Bay. It has been often remarked
that the first white man who became a resident of Chicago was a
negro. His name was Jean Baptiste Pointe an Sable, a mulatto from
the West Indies. He settled there in 1796 and built a rude cabin on
the north bank of the main river, and laid claim to a tract of land
surrounding it. He disappeared from the scene, and his claim was
"jumped" by a Frenchman named Le Mai, who commenced trad-
ing with the Indians. A few years later he sold out to John Kin-
zie, who was then an Indian trader in the country about St.
Joseph, Mich., and agent for tlic American Fur Company, which
had traded at Chicago with the Indians for some time; and this
172 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
fact had, probably more than any other, to do with the determina-
tion of the Government to establish a fort there. The Indians
were growing numerous in that region, being attracted by the
facilities for selling their wares, as well as being pressed northward
b}' the tide of emigration setting in from the south. It was judged
necessary to have some force near that point to keep them in
check, as well as to protect the trading interests. Mr. Kinzie
moved his family there the same year Fort Dearborn was built
and converted the Jean Baptiste cabin into a tasteful dwelling.
For about eight years things moved along smoothly. The garri-
son was quiet, and the traders prosperous. Then the United States
became involved in trouble with Great Britain. The Indians took
the war-path long before the declaration of hostilities between the
civilized nations, committing great depredations, the most atro-
cious of which was the massacre of Fort Dearborn, an account of
which may be found in this volume \inder the heading of "The
War of 1812."
THE GREAT FIRE.
From the year 1840 the onward march of the city of Chicago
to the date of the great fire is well known. To recount its marvel-
ous growth in population, wealth, internal resources and improve-
ments and everything else that goes to make up a mighty city,
would consume more space than we could devote, however interest-
ing it might be. Its progress astonished the world, and its citizens
stood almost appalled at the work of their own hands. She was
happy, prosperous and great when time brought that terrible Octo-
ber night (Oct. 9, 1871) and with it the great fire, memorable as
the greatest fire ever occurring on earth. The sensation conveyed
to the spectator of this unparalleled event, either through the eye,
the ear, or other senses or sympathies, cannot be adequately
described, and any attempt to do it but shows the poverty of lan-
guage. As a spectacle it was beyond doubt the grandest as \yell as
the most appalling ever oftered to mortal eyes. From any
elevated standpoint the appearance was that of a vast ocean of
flame, sweeping in mile-long billows and breakers over the doomed
city.
Added to the spectacular elements of the conflagration — the
intense and lurid light, the sea of red. and black, and the spires and
pyramids of flame shooting into the heavens — was its constant and
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 173
terrible roar, drowning even the voices of the shrieking multitude;
and ever and anon — for a while as often as every half-minute —
resounded far and wide the rapid detonations of explosions, or fall-
ing walls. In short, all sights and sounds which terrify the weak
and unnerve the stron-; abounded. But they were only the accom-
paniment which tlic orchestra of nature were furnishing to the
terrible tragedy there being enacted.
The total area bur.;ed over, including streets, was three and a
third square miles. The number of buildings destroyed was
17,450; persons rendered homeless, 98,500; persons killed, about
200. Not including depreciation of real estate, or loss of business,
it is estimated that the total loss occasioned by the fire was
$190,000,000, of which but $44,000,000 was recovered on insur-
ance. The business of the city was interrupted but a short time;
and in a year after the fire a large part of the burned district was
rebuilt, and at present there is scarcely a trace of the terrible dis-
aster, save in the improved character of the new buildings over
those destroyed, and the general better appearance of the city —
now the finest, in an architectural sense, in the world.
One of the features of this great city worthy of mention is the
Exposition, held annually. The smouldering ruins were yet smok-
ing when the Exposition Building was erected, only ninety days
being consumed in its construction. The accompanying engrav-
ing of the building, the main part of which is 1,000 feet long,
will give an idea of its magnitude.
COMMERCE OF CHICAGO.
The trade of Chicago is co-extensive with the world. Every-
where, in every country and in every port, the trade- marks of her
merchants are seen. Everywhere, Chicago stands prominently
identified with the commerce of the continent. A few years ago,
grain was carted to the place in wagons; now more than 10,000
miles of railroad, with thousands of trains heavily ladened with the
products of the land center there. The cash value of the produce
handled during the year 187S was $220,000,000, and its aggregate
weight was 7,000,000 tons, or would make 700,000 car loads.
Divided into trains, it would make 28,000 long, heavily ladened
freight trains, wending their way from all parts of the United States
toward our great metropolis. These trains, arranged in one con-
174 HISTOKV OK ILLINOIS.
tinuous line, would stretch from London across the broad Atlantic
to New York and on across our continent to San Francisco.
In regard to the grain, lumber and stock trade, Chicago has sur-
passed all rivals, and, indeed, not only is without a peer but excels
any three or four cities in the world in. these branches. Of grain,
the vast quantity of 134,851,193 bushels was received during the
year 18TS. This was about two-fifths more than ever received
before in one year. It took 13,000 long freight trains to carry it
from the fields of the Northwest to Chicago. This would make a
continuous train that would reach across the continent from New .
York to San Francisco. Speaking more in detail, we have of the
various cereals received during the year, 62,783,577 busli«ls of corn,
29,901,220 bushels of wheat, 18,251,529 bushels of oats, 133,981,104
pounds of seed. The last item alone would fill about 7,000 freight
cars.
The lumber received during the year 1878 was, 1,171,364,000 feet,
exceeded only in 1872, the year after the great fire. This vast
amount of lumber would require 195,000 freight cars to transport
it. It would build a fence, four boards high, four and one-half
times around the globe.
In the stock trade for the year 1878, the figures assume propor-
tions almost incredible. They are, however, from reliable and
trustworthy sources, and must be accepted as authentic. There
were received during the year, 6,339,656 hogs, being 2,000,000 more
than ever received before in one year. It required 129,916 stock
cars to transport this vast number of hogs from the farms of the
West and Northwest to the stock yards of Chicago. These hogs
arranged in single file, would form a connecting link between
Chicago and Pekin, China.
Of the large number of hogs received, five millions of them were
slaughtered in Chicago. The aggregate amount of product manu-
factured from these hogs was 918,000,000 pounds. The capacity of
the houses engaged in slaughtering operations in Chicago is 60,000
hogs daily. The number of hands employed in these houses is
from 6,000 to 8,000. The number of packages required in which
to market the year's product is enormously large, aggregating 500,-
000 barrels, 800,000 tierces and 650,000 boxes.
There has been within the stock yards of the city, during the
year 1878, 1,036,066 cattle. These were gathered from the plains
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 175
of Oregon, "Wyoming and Utah, and the grazing regions of Texas,
as well as from all the Southern, Western and Northwestern States
and Territories and from the East as far as Ohio. If these cattle
were driven from Chicago southward, iu single file, through the
United States, Mexico, and the Central American States into South
America, the foremost could graze on the plains of Brazil, ere the
last one had passed the limits of the great city.
Not only does Chicago attract to its great market the products of
a continent, but from it is distributed throughout the world manu-
factured goods. Every vessel and every train headed toward that
city are heavily ladened with the crude products of the farm, of the
forests, or of the bowels of the earth, and every ship that leaves her
docks and every train that flies from her limits are filled with
manufactured articles. These goods not only find their way all
over our own country but into Europe, Asia, Australia, Afi-ica,
South America, Mexico, and the Islands of the sea; indeed, every
nook and corner of the globe, where there is a demand for her
goods, her merchants are ready to supply.
The wholesale trade for the year 1878 reached enormous figures,
aggregating $280,000,000. Divided among the leading lines, we
find there were sold of dry goods, $95,000,000 worth. The trade in
groceries amounted to $66,000,000; hardware, $20,000,000; boots
and shoes, $24,000,000; clothing, $17,000,000; carpets, $8,000,000;
millinery, $7,000,000; hats and caps, $6,000,000; leather, $8,000,-
000; drugs, $6,000,000; jewelry, $4,500,000; musical instruments,
$2,300,000. Chicago sold over $5,000,000 worth of fruit during
the year, and for the same time her fish trade amounted to $1,400,-
000, and her oyster trade $4,500,000. The candy and other con-
fectionery trade amounted to $1,534,900. This would fill all the
Christmas stockings in the United States.
In 1852, the commerce of the city reached the hopeful sura of
$20,000,000; since then, the annual sales of one firm amount to
that much. In 1870, it reached $400,000,000, and in 1878 it had
grown so vapidly that the trade of the city amounted during that
year to $650,000,000. Her manufacturing interests have likewise
grown. In 1878, her manufactories employed in the neighborhood
of 75,000 operators. The products manufactured during the year
were valued at $230,000,000. In reviewing the shipping interests of
Chicago, we find it equally enormous. So considerable, indeed, is the
176 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
commercial navy of Chicago, that in the seasons of navigation, one
vessel sails every nine minutes during the business hours; add to
this the canal-boats that leave, one every five minutes during the
same time, and you will see something of the magnitude of her
shipping. More vessels arrive and depart from this port during the
season than enter or leave any other port in the world.
In 1831, the mail system was condensed into a half-breed, who
went on foot to ISTiles, Mich., once in two weeks, and brought back
what papers and news he could find. As late cs 1846, there was
often but one mail a week. A post-office was established in
Chicago in 1833, and the postmaster nailed up old boot legs upon
one side of his shop to serve as boxes. It has since grown to be
the larofest receiving office in the United States.
In 1841:, the quagmires in the streets were first pontooned by
plank roads. The wooden-block pavement appeared in 1857. In
1840, water was delivered by peddlers, in carts or by hand. Then
a twenty-five horse powepengine pushed it through hollow or bored
logs along the streets till 1854, when it was introduced into the
houses by new works. The first fire-engine was used in 1835, and
the first steam fire-engine in 1859. Gas was utilized for lis'htinir
the city in 1S50. The Young Men's Christian Association was
organized in 1858. Street cars commenced running in 1854. The
Museum was opened in 1863. The alarm telegraph adopted in
1864. The opera-house built in 1865. The telephone introduced
in 1878.
One of the most thoroughly interesting engineering exploits of
the city is the tunnels and water-works system, the grandest and
most unique of any in the world; and the closest analysis fails to
detect any impurities in the water furnished. The first tunnel is
five feet two inches in diameter and two miles long, and can deliver
50,000,000 gallons per day. The second tunnel is seven feet in
diameter and six miles long, running four miles under the city, and
can deliver 100,000,000 gallons per day. This water is distributed
throuo-h 410 miles of water mains.
Chicago river is tunneled for the passage of pedestrians and vehi-
cles from the South to the AVest and ]Sorth divisions.
There is no grand scenery about Chicago except the two seas, one
of water, the other of prairie. ^Nevertheless, there is a spirit about
it, a push, a breadth, a power, that soon makes it a place never to
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UNIVERSITY Of ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 177
be forsaken. Chicago is in the field almost alone, to handle the
wealth of one-fourth of the territory of this great republic. Tlie
Atlantic sea-coast divides its margins between Portland, Boston,
New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and Savannah, but Chicago has
a dozen empires casting their treasures into her lap. On a bed of
coal that can run all the machinery of the world for 500 centuries;
in a garden that can feed the race by the thousand years; at the
head of the lakes that give her a temperature as a summer resort
equaled by no great city in the land; with a climate that insures
the health of her citizens; surrounded by all the great deposits of
natural wealth in mines and forests and herds, Chicago is the
wonder of to-day, and will be the city of the future.
STATES OF THE UNION.
THEIR SETTLEMENT, ORIGIN OF NAME". AND MEANING, COGNOMEN, MOT-
TOES, ADMISSION INTO THE. UNION, POPULATION, AREA, NUMBER OF
SOLDIERS FDRNISHED DURING THE REBELLION, NUMBER OF REPRE-
SENTATIVES IN CONGRESS, PRESENT GOVERNORS, ETC., ETC., ETC.
Alabama. — This State was first explored by LaSalle in 16S4, and
settled by the French at Mobile in 1711, and admitted as a State in
1817. Its name is Indian, and means " Here we rest." Has no
motto. Population in 1860,964,201; in 1870,996,992. Furnished
2,576 soldiers for the Union army. Area 50,722 square miles.
Montgomery is the capital. Has 8 Representatives and 10 Presi-
dential electors. Rufus W. Cobb is Governor; salary, $3,000;
politics. Democratic. Length of term, 2 years.
Arkansas — Became a State in 1836. Population in 1860, 435,-
450; in 1870,484,471. Area 59,198 square miles. Little Rock,
capital. Its motto is Regnant Populi — " The people rule." It has
the Indian name of its principal river. Is called the " Bear State."
Furnished 8,289 soldiers. She is entitled to 4 members in Congress^
and 6 electoral votes. Governor, W. R. Miller, Democrat; salary,
$3,500; term, 2 years.
California — Has a Greek motto. Eureka., which means " I have
found it." It derived its name from the bay forming the peninsula
of Lower California, and was first applied by Cortez. It was first
visited by the Spaniards in 1542, and by the celebrated English
178 . HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
navigator, Sir Francio Drake, in 1578. In 1846 Fremont took
possession of it, defeating the Mexicans, in the name of the United
States, and it was admitted as a State in 1850. Its gold mines
from 1868 to 1878 produced over $800,000,000. Area 188,982 square
miles. Population in 1860, 379,994. In 1870, 560,247. She gave
to defend the Union 15.225 soldiers. Sacramento is the capital.
Has 4 Representatives in Congress. Is entitled to 6 Presidential
electors. Present Governor is William Irwin, a Democrat; term,
4 years ; salary, $6,000.
Colorado — Contains 106,475 square miles, and had a population
in 1860 of 34,277, and in 1870, 39,864. She furnished 4,903
soldiers. Was admitted as a State in 1876. It has a Latin motto,
Nil sine Numine, which means, "Nothing can be done without
divine aid." It was named from its river. Denver is the capital.
Has 1 member in Congress, and 3 electors. T. AV. Pitkin is Gov-
ernor; salary, $3,000; term, 2 years; politics, Pepublicau.
Connecticut — Qui transtulit sustinet, " He who brouglit ns over
sustains us," is her motto. It was named from the Indian Quon-
ch-ta-Cut, signifying "Long River." It is called the "Nutmeg
State." Area 4,674 square miles. Population 1860, 460,147; in
1870, 537,454. Gave to the Union army 55,755 soldiers. Hart-
ford is the capital. Has 4 Representatives in Congress, and is
entitled to 6 Presidential electors. Salary of Governor $2,000;
term, 2 years.
Delaware. — " Liberty and Independence," is the motto of this
State. It was named after Lord De La Ware, an English states-
man, and is called, " The Blue Hen," and the " Diamond State." It
was first settled by the Swedes in 1638. It was one of the original
thirteen States. Has an area of 2,120 square miles. Population in
1860, 112,216; in 1870, 125,015. She sent to the front to defend
the Union, 12,265 soldiers. Dover is the capital. Has but 1 mem-
ber in Congress; entitled to 3 Presidential electors. John W.
Hall, Democrat, is Governor; salary, $2,000; term, 2 years.
Florida — Was discovered by Ponce de Leon in 1512, on Easter
Sunday, called by the Spaniards, Pascua Florida, which, with the
variety and beauty of the flowers at this early season caused him to
name it Florida — which means in Spanish, flowery. Its motto is,
" In God we trust." It was admitted into the Union in 1845. It has
an area of 59,268 square miles. Population in 1860, 140,424; in
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 179
1870, 187,756. Its capital is Tallahassee. Has 2 members in Con-
gress. Has 4 Presidential electors. George F. Drew, Democrat,
Governor; term, 4 years; salary, $3,600.
Oeoi^gia — Owes its name to George II., of England, who first
established a colony there in 1732. Its motto is, " Wisdom, justice
and moderation." It was one of the original States. Population
in 1860, 1,057,286; 1870, 1,184,109. Capital, Atlanta. Area 58,-
000 square miles. Has 9 Representatives in Congress, and 11
Presidential electors. Her Governor is A. H. Colquitt, Democrat;
term, 4 years; salarj^ $4,000.
Illinois — Motto, " State Sovereignty, National Union." ISTame
derived from the Indian word, Illini, meaning, superior men. It
is called the '"Prairie State," and its inhabitants, "Suckers."
"Was Urst explored by the French in 1673, and admitted into the
Union in 1818. Area 55,410 square miles. Population, in 1860
1,711,951; in 1870, 2,539,871. She sent to the front to defend the
Union, 258,162 soldiers. Capital, Springfield Has 19 members in
Congress, and 21 Presidential electors. Shelby M. Cullom, Eepub.
lican, is Governor; elected for 4 years; salary, $6,000.
Indiana — Is called " Hoosier State." Was explored in 1682,
and admitted as a State in 1816. Its name was suggested by its
numerous Indian population. Area 33,809 square miles. Popu-
lation in 1860, 1,350,428; in 1870, 1,680,637. She put into the
Federal army, 194,363 men. Capital, Indianapolis. Has 13 mem-
bers in Congress, and 15 Presidential electors. J. D. Williams,
Governor, Democrat; salary, $3,000; term, 4 year.
Iowa — Is an Indian name and means "This is the land." Its
motto is, " Our liberties we prize, our rights we will maintain."
It is called the " Hawk Eye State." It was first visited by
Marquette and Joliet in 1673; settled by New Englanders in
1833, and admitted into the Union in 1846. Des Moines is the
capital. It has an area of 55,045, and a population in 1860 of 674,913,
and in 1870 of 1,191,802. She sent to defend the Government,
75,793 soldiers. Has 9 members in Congress; 11 Presidential
electors. John H. Gear, Republican, is Governor; salary, $2,500;
term, 2years.
Kansas — Was admitted into the Union in 1861, making the
thirty-fourth State. Its motto is Ad astra per aspera, " To the
stars through difficulties." Its name means, " Smoky water," and
180 HISTORY or ILLINOIS.
is derived from one of her rivers. Area 78,841 square miles.
Population in 1860, 107,209; in 1870 was 362,812. She furnished
20,095 soldiers. Capital is Topeka. Has 3 Representatives in Con-
gress, and 5 Presidential electors. John P. St. John, Governor;
politics, Republican; salary, $3,000; term, 2 years.
Kentucky — Is the Indian name for " At tlie head of the rivers."
Its motto is, '• United we stand, divided we fall." The sobriquet
of "dark and bloody ground " is applied to this State. It was first
settled in 1769, and admitted in 1792 as the fifteenth State. Area
37,680. Population in 1860, 1,155,684; in 1870, 1,321,000. She
put into the Federal army 75,285 soldiers. Capital, Frankfort.
Has 10 members in Congress ; 12 Electors. J. B. McCreary,
Democrat, is Governor; salary, $5,000; term, 4 years.
Louisiana — Was called after Louis XIY., who at one time
owned that section of the country. Its motto is " Union and Con-
fidence." It is called '"The Creole State." It was visited by La
Salle in 1684, and admitted into the L'nion in 1812, making the
eighteenth State. Population in 1860,708.002; in 1870, 732,731.
Area 46,431 square miles. She put into the Federal army 5,224
soldiers. Capital, Xew Orleans. Has 6 Representatives and 8
Electors. F. T. Nichols, Governor, Democrat; salary, $8,000;
term, 4 years.
Maine. — This State was called after the province of Maine in
France, in compliment of Queen Henrietta of England, who owned
that province. Its motto is Dirigo, meaning " I direct." It is
called "The Pine Tree State." It was settled by the English in
1625. It was admitted as a State in 1820. Area 31,766 square
miles. Population in 1860, 628,279; in 1870, 626,463; 69,738 sol-
diers v/ent from this State. Has 5 members in Congress, and 7
Electors. Selden Connei', Republican, Governor; term, 1 year;
salary, $2,500.
Maryland — "Was named after Henrietta Maria, Queen of
Charles I. of England. It has a Latin motto, Crecite et inultiplica-
mini^ meaning "Increase and Multiply." It was settled in 1634,
and was one of the original thirteen States. It has an area of 11,-
124 square miles. Population in 1860 was 687,049; in 1870, 780,-
806. This State furnished 46,053 soldiers. Capital. Annapolis.
Has 6 Representatives, and 8 Presidential electors. J. H. Carroll,
Democrat, Governor; salary, $4,500; term, 4 years.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 181
Massachusetts — Is the Indian for " The country around the great
hills." It is called the "Bay State," from its numerous bays. Its
motto is Ense petit placidam sub lihertate quietem, " By the sword
she seeks placid rest in liberty." It was settled in 1620 at Plymouth
by English Puritans. It was one of the original thirteen States,
and was the first to take up arms against the English durini; the
Revolution. Area 7,800 square miles. Population in 1860, 1,2,31,-
066; in 1870, 1,457,351. She gave to the Union army 146,467 sol-
diers. Boston is the capital. Has 11 Representatives in Con-
gress, and 13 Presidential electors. ' Thomas Talbot, Republican, is
Governor; salary, $5,000; term, 1 year.
Michigan — Latin motto, Luehor, and Si quceris 'peninsulam
amcenam circumspice, '''■ 1 will defend" — "If you seek a pleasant
peninsula, look around you." Tlie name is a contraction of two
Indian words meaning "Great Lake." It was early explored by
Jesuit missionaries, and in 1837 was admitted into the Union. It
is known as the " Wolverine State." It contains 56,243 square
miles. In 1800 it had a population of 749,173; in 1870, 1,181,059.
She furnished 88,111 soldiers. Capital, Lansing. Has 9 Repre-
sentatives and 11 Presidential electors. C. M. Croswell is Gov-
ernor; politics, Republican; salary, $1,000; term, 2 years.
Minnesota — Is an Indian name, meaning " Cloudy Water." It
has a French motto, V Etoile du Nord — " The Star of the North."
It was visited in 1680 by La Salle, settled in 1846, and admitted
into the Union in 1858. It contains 83,531 square miles. In 1860
had a population of 172,023; in 1870, 439,511. She gave to the
Union army 24;002 soldiers. St. Paul is the capital. Has 3 mem-
bers in Congress, 5 Presidential electors. Governor, J. S. Pills-
bury, Republican; salary, $3,000; term, 2 years.
Mississippi — Is an Indian name, meaning "Long River," and the
State is named from the " Father of Waters." The State was first
explored by De Sota in 1511; settled by the French at Natchez in
1716, and was admitted into the Union in 1817. It has an area of
47,156 square miles. Population in 1860, 791,305; in 1870,827,-
922. She gave to suppress the Rebellion 545 soldiers. Jackson is
the capital. Has 6 representatives in Congress, and 8 Presidential
electors. J. M. Stone is Governor, Democrat; salary, $4,000;
term, 4 years.
Missouri — Is derived from the Indian word " muddy," which
182 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS.
more properly applies to the river that flows through it. Its motto
is Salus populi sapreina lex esto^ " Let the welfare of the people
be the supreme law." The State was first settled by the French
near Jefferson City in 1719, and in 1821 was admitted into the
Union. It has an area of 67,380 square miles, equal to 43,123,200
acres. It had a population in 1860 of 1,182,012; in 1870, 1,721,-
000. She gave to defend the Union 108,162 soldiers. Capital,
Jefferson City. Its inhabitants are known by the offensive cogno-
man of '' Pukes." Has 13 representatives in Congress, and 15
Presidential electors. J. S. Phelps is Governor; politics, Demo-
cratic; salary, S5,000; term, 4 years.
Nebraska — Has f ^r its motto, " Equality before the law." Its
name is derived from one of its rivers, meaning " broad and shal-
low, or low." It was admitted into the Union in 1S67. Its capital
is Lincoln. It had a population in 1860 of 28,841, and in 1870,
123,993, and in 1875, 246,280. It has an area of 75,995 square
miles. She furnished to defend the Union 3,157 soldiers. Has but
1 Representative and 3 Presidential electors. A. Kance, Repub-
lican, is Governor; salary, $2,500; term, 2 years.
Nevada — '' The Snowy Land " derived its name from the Span-
ish. Its motto is Latin, Volens et jpotens^ and means " willing
and able." It was settled in 1S50, and admitted into the Union in
1S64. Capital, Carson City. Its population in 1860 was 6,857;
in 1870 it was 42,491. It has an area of 112,090 square miles.
She furnished 1.080 soldiers to suppress the Rebellion. Has 1 Rep-
resentative and 3 Electors. Governor, J. H. Kinkhead, Republican ;
salary, $0,000; term, 4 years.
New Hampshire — "Was first settled at Dover by the English in
1623. "Was one of the original States. Has no motto. It is
named from Hampshire county in England. It also bears the
name of " The Old Granite State." It has an area of 9,280 miles,
which equals 9,239,200 acres. It had a population in I860 of 326,-
073, and in 1870 of 318,300. She increased the Union army with
33.913 soldiers. Concord is the capital. Has 3 Representatives
and 5 Presidential electors. N. Head, Republican, Governor;
salary, $1,000; term, 1 year.
New Jersey — "Was named in honor of the Island of Jersey in the
British channel. Its motto is " Liberty and Independence." It was
first settled at Bergen by the Swedes in 1624. It is one of the orig-
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 183
inal thirteen States. It has an area of 8,320 square miles, or 5,324,-
800 acres. Population in 1860 was 672,035 ; in 1870 it was 906,096.
She put into the Federal army 75,315 soldiers. Capital, Trenton.
Has 7 Representatives and 9 Presidential electors. Governor,
George B. McClelland, Democrat; salary, $5,000; term, 3 years.
Ntw York. — The "Empire State" was named by the Duke of
York, afterward King James II. of England. It has a Latin motto,
Excelsior, which means "Still Higher." It was first settled by the
Dutch in 1614: at Manhattan. It has an area of 47,000 square
miles, or 30,080,000 acres. The population in 1860 was 3,880,735;
in 1870 it was 4,332,759. It is one of the original thirteen States.
Capital is Albany. It gave to defend our Government 445,959
men. Has 33 members in, Congress, and 35 Presidential electors.
Governor, L. Robinson, Democrat; salary, $10,000; term, 3 years.
North Carolina — Was named after Charles IX., King of France.
It is called " The Old N"orth," or " The Turpentine State." It was
first visited in 1524 by a Florentine navigator, sent out by Francis
I., King of France. It was settled at Albemarle in 1663. It was
one of the original thirteen States. It has an area of 50,704 square
miles, equal to 32,450,560 acres. It had in ISGO a population of
992,622, and in 1S70, 1,071,361. Raleigh is the capital. She
furnished 3,156 soldiers to put down the Rebellion. Has 8 mem-
bers in Conixi-ess, and is entitled to 10 Presidential electors. Z, B.
Vance, Democrat, is Governor; salary, $5,000; term, 4 years.
QJiio — Took its name from the river on its Southern boundary,
and means "Beautiful." Its motto is Imperium in Iniperio —
'•An Empire in an Empire." It was first permanently settled in
1783 at Marietta by New Englanders. It was admitted as a State
in 1803. Its capital is Columbus. It contains 39,964 square
miles, or 25,576,960 acres. Population in 1860, 2,339,511; in 1870
it had 2.665,260. She sent to the front during the Rebellion 310,-
654 soldiers. Has 20 Representatives, and 22 Presidential electors.
Governor, R. M. Bishop, Democrat; salary, $4,000; term, 2 years.
Oregon — Owes its Indian name to its principal river. Its motto
is Alls volat propriis — "She flies with her own wings." It was
first visited by the Spaniards in the sixteenth century. It was set-
tled by the English in 1813, and admitted into the Union in 1859.
Its capital is Salem. It has an area of 95,274 square miles, equal
to 60,975,360 acres. It had in 1860 a population of 52,465; in
184 HISTORY OF ILLINOIS,
1870,90,922. She furnished 1,810 soldiers. She is entitled to 1
member in Congress, and 3 Presidential electors. W. W. Thayer,
Republican, is Grovernor; salary, $1,500 ; term, 4 years.
Pennsylvania. — This is the "Keystone State," and means "Penn's
Woods," and was so called after William Penn, its original owner.
Its motto is, "Virtue, liberty and independence." A colony was
established by Penn in 1682. The State was one of the original
thirteen. It has an area of 46,000 square miles, equaling 29,440,-
000 acres. It had in 1860 a population of 2,906,215; and in 1870,
3,515,993. She gave to suppress the Rebellion, 338,155. Harris-
burg is the capital. Has 27 Representatives and 29 electors. H.
M.IIoyt, is Governor; salary, $10,000; politics. Republican; term
of office, 3 years.
Rhode Island. — This, the smallest of the States, owes its name to
the Island of Rhodes in the Mediterranean, which domain it is said
to greatly resemble. Its motto is " Hope," and it is familiarly
called, "Little Rhody." It was settled by Roger Williams in 1636.
It was one of the original thirteen States, It has an area of 1,306
square miles, or 835,840 acres. Its population in 18G0 numbered
174,620; in 1870, 217,356. She gave to defend the Union, 23,248.
Its capitals are Providence and Newport. Has 2 Representatives,
and 4 Presidential electors. C. Yanzandt is Governor; politics,
Republican; salary, $1,000; term, 1 year.
South Carolina. — The Palmetto State wears the Latin name of
Charles IX., of France (Carolus). Its motto is Latin, Animis
opib usque 2y<^'rati, "Ready in will and deed." The first permanent
settlement was made at Port Royal in 1670, where the French
Huguenots had failed three-quarters of a century before to found a
settlement. It is one of tJie original thirteen States. Its capital is
Columbia. It has an area of 29,385 square miles, or 18,^^06,400
acres, with a population in 1860 of 703,708; in 1870, 728,000.
Has 5 Representatives in Congress, and is entitled to 7 Presidential
electors. Salary of Governor, $3,500; term, 2 3^ears.
Tennessee — Is the Indian name for the " River of the Bend," i, e^
the Mississippi, which forms its western boundary. She is called
"The Big Bend State." Her motto is, " Agriculture, Commerce."
It was settled in 1757, and admitted into the Union in 1796, mak-
ini? the sixteenth State, or the third admitted after the Revolution-
ary War — Vermont being the first, and Kentucky the second. It
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 185
has an area of 45,600 square miles, or 29,184,000 acres. In 1860
its population numbered 1,109,801, and in 1870, 1,257,983 She
furnished 31,092 soldiers to suppress the Rebellion. Nashville is
the capital. Has 10 Representatives, and 12 Presidential electors.
Governor, A. S. Marks, Democrat; salary, $4,000; term, 2 years.
Texas — Is the American word for the Mexican name by which
all tliat section of the country was known before it was ceded to the
United States. It is known as " The Lone Star State." The first set-
tlement was made by LaSalle in 1685. After the independence of
Mexico in 1822, it remained a Mexican Province until 1836, when
it gained its independence, and in 1845 was admitted into the
Union. It has an area of 237,504 square miles, equal to 152,002,-
560 acres. Its population in 1860 was 604,215; in 1870, 818,579.
She gave to put down the Rebelion 1,965 soldiers. Capital, Austin.
Has 6 Representatives, and 8 Presidential electors. Governor, O.
M. Roberts, Democrat; salary, $5,000; term, 2 years.
Yermont — Bears the French name of her mountains Verde Mont^
"Green Mountains." Its motto is "Freedom and Unity." It
was settled in 1731, and admitted into the Union in 1791. Area
10,212 square miles. Population in 1860, 315,098 ; in 1870, 330,55 1 •
She gave to defend the Government, 33,272 soldiers. Capital, Mont-
pelier. Has 3 Representatives, and 5 electors. Governor, H. Fair-
banks, Republican; term, 2 years; salary, $1,000.
Virginia. — The Old Dominion, as this State is called, is the
oldest of the States. It was named in honor of Queen Elizabeth,
the " Virgin Queen," in whose reign Sir Walter Raleigh made his
first attempt to colonize that region. Its motto is Sic seraper
tyrannis, " So always with tyrants." It was first settled at James-
town, in 1607, by the English, being the first settlement in the
United States. It is one of original thirteen States, and had before
its division in 1862, 61,352 square miles, but at present contains
but 38,352 square miles, equal to 24,545,280 acres. The population
in 1860 amounted to 1,596,318, and in 1870 it w\as 1,224,830. Rich-
mond is the capital. Has 9 Representatives, and 11 electors. Gov-
ernor, F. W. M. Halliday, Democrat; salary, $5,500; term, 4 years.
West Virginia. — Motto, Montani semper liber i., " Mountaineers
are always free." This is the only State ever formed, under the
Constitution, by the division of an organized State. This was done
in 1862, and in 1863 was admitted into the Union. It has an area of
186
HISTORY UF ILLIXOIS.
23,000 square miles, or 14,720,000 acres. The population in I860
was 376,000; in 1870 it numbered 4i5.616. She furnished 32,003.
Capital, Wheeling. Has 3 Representatives in Congress, and is
entitled to 5 Presidential electors. The Governor is H. M. Mathews,
Democrat; term, 4 years; salary, $2,700,
Wisconsin — Is an Indian name, and means *' Wild-rushinor
channel," Its motto, Clvitatas successit barbaruni, " The civilized
man succeeds the barbarous." It is called " The Badger State."
The State was visited by the French explorers in 1665, and a settle-
ment was made in 1669 at Green Bay, It was admitted into the
Union in 1848. It has an area of 52,924 square miles, equal to
34,511,360 acres. In 1860 its population numbered 775,881; in
1870, 1,055,167. Madison is the capital. She furnished for the
Union army 91,021 soldiers. Has 8 members in Congress, and is
entitled to 10 Presidential electors. The Governor is W. E. Smith;
politics. Republican; salarj^ $5,000; term, 2 years.
HISTORY OF ILLINOIS. 187
ILLINOIS INSTITUTE FOR DEAF AND DUMB.
The first class of unfortunates to attract the notice of the legis-
lature were the deaf mutes. The act establishino^ the institution for
the education of these unfortunates was approved by Gov, Carlin,
Feb. 23, 1839, the asylum to be located at Jacksonville. The
original building, afterward called the south wing, was begun in
1842, and completed in 1849, at a cost of about $25,000. A small
portion of the building was ready for occupancy in 1846, and on
the 26th day of January, of that year, the Institution was formally
opened, with Mr. Thomas Officer as principal. The first term
opened with but four pupils, which has increased from year to year,
until the average attendance at the present time is about 250.
ILLINOIS INSTITUTE FOR THE INSANE.
In response to an appeal from the eminent philanthropist,
Miss D. L. Dix, an act establishing the Illinois Hospital
for the Insane, was approved by Gov. French, March 1, 1847".
Nine trustees were appointed, with power to select a site,
purchase land, and erect buildings to accommodate 250 patients.
On the 1st of May the board agreed upon a site, 1^ miles
from the court-house in Jacksonville. In 1851 two wards in
the east wing were ready for occupancy, and the first patient
was admitted Nov. 3, 1851. In 1869 the General Assembly passed
two acts creating the northern asylum for the insane, and the
southern asylum for the insane, which was approved by Gov.
Palmer, April 16, 1869. Elgin was selected as a location for the
former, and Anna for the latter. The estimated capacity of the
three asylums is 1,200 patients. In addition to the State institu-
tions for the insane, there are three other asylums for their benelit.
one in Cook county, which will accommodate about 400 patients,
and two private institutions, one at Batavia, and one at Jack-
sonville.
ASYLUM FOR FEEBLE-MINDED.
The experimental school for feeble-minded children, the first
institution of its kind in the North-west, was created by an act
approv:ed, Feb. 15, 1865. It was an outgrowth of the institution
for deaf and dumb, to which idiots are frequently sent, under a
mistaken impression on the part of parents, that their silence
results from inability to hear. The selectiou of a site for tlie
;; 3 iiiSTOKV of Illinois.
building was intrusted to seven commissioners, who, in July, 18T5,
agreed upon the town of Lincoln. The building was begun in
1875, and completed three years later, at a cost of $154,209. The
averajje attendance in 1878 was 22-1.
THE CHICAGO CHARITABLE EYE AND EAR INFIKMAEY.
The association for founding this institution was organized in
May, 1858, and Pearson street, Chicago, selected for the erection
of the building. In 1865 the legislature granted the institution
a special charter, and two years later made an appropriatioa of
$5,000 a year for its maintenance, and in 1871 received it into the
circle of State institutions; thereupon the name was changed by
the substitution of the word Illinois for Chicago. The buildinff
was swept away by the great fire of 1871, and three years later the
present building was completed, at a cost of $12,813.
THE SOUTHERN ILLINOIS NORMAL UNIVERSITY
Is located at Carbondale. This University was opened in 1874,
and occupies one of the finest school edifices in the United Spates.
It includes, besides a normal department proper, a prejiaratory
department and a model school. The model school is of an
elementary grade; the preparatory department is of the grade of a
high school, with a course of three years. The normal course of four
years embraces two courses, a classical and a scientific course; both
make the study of the English language and literature quite
prominent.
THE ILLINOIS INDUSTRIAL UNIVERSITY,
Located at Urbana, was chartered in 1867. It has a corps of twen-
ty-five instructors, including professors, lecturers and assistants,
and has an attendance of over 400 pupils. It comprises four
colleges (1) Agriculture, (2) Engineering, (3) Natural Science,
(4) Literature and Science. These colleges embrace twelve subor-
dinate schools and courses of instruction, in which are taught
domestic science and art, commerce, military science, wood engrav-
ing, printing, telegraphy, photographing and designing. This insti-
tution is endowed with the national land grant, and the amount of
its productive fund is about $320,000. The value of its grounds,
buildings, etc., is about $640,000. It is well supplied with appara-
tus, and has a library of over 10,000 volumes.
,-((fr«**'***'^''."^
LiciMii r
Of THE
UMVFRSITY OF ILLSNOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
CHAPTER I.
EARLY SETTLEMENT.
Tlie MUitary Tract. — At tlie close of the war betAvocn the United
States and England in 1812 onr Government laid off a tract of lan<l
in Illinois for the soldiers who ])artiei])ate(l in that war. The land
thns a])propriated was enil,)raced in the region between the Missis-
sippi and the Illinois rivers, and extended as far northward as the
north line of Bnreaii and Henry connties. To it the name " Mili-
tarv Tract" was given, and by that name this section is still
known. Within this boundary is embraced one of the most fertile
regions of the globe. Scarcely had Congress made the proper pro-
visions to enable the soldiers to secure their land ere a few of the
most daring and resolute started to j)ossess it. There were only a
few, however, who at first regarded their '^'quarter-section" of suffi-
cient value to induce them to endure the hardships of the pioneer
in its settlement and improvement. Many of them sold their patent
to a fine ''prairie quarter" in this county for one hundred dollars,
others for less, while some traded theirs for a horse, a cow, or a
watch, regarding themselves as just so much ahead. This was a
source of no little trouble to the actual settlers, as shown further on
in this volume, for they could not always tell which quarter of land
belonged to a soldier, or which was "Congress land" and could be
pre-empted. Even when a settler found a suitable location knoMU
to be " patent land," with a desire to ])urchase, he experienced great
difficulty in finding the owner, and often did not find him until he
had put hundreds of dollars' wcn-th of improvements on it, when the
patentee was sure to turn up.
Fulton County. — The largest <if the counties contained in the Mil-
itarv Tract is Fulton county, the history of which we now begin to
write, and which we shall seek to make as detailed and accurate as
accessible data will permit. That some errors will occur in names
and dates, and some statements, cannot be denied, but studious (vare
13
192 HISTOKY OF FULTON COUNTY.
will be taken to avoid as many sii(3h inaccuracies as possible. The
face of the conntiy of this county, save that portion bordering on
Illinois river, is mostly rich, rolling prairie, watered by Spoon river,
Coj)peras, Otter, Cedar, Buckheart, Big, Putjnan and Coal creeks,
with their numerous and small tributaries, along which are exten-
sive bodies of timber. The farmers have planted artificial groves
extensively over the ])rairie, which has had the effect of ameliorating
the climate, by kee])ing the winds of an open country from the sur-
face of the earth. By the energy and enterprise of the citizens of
this county it has been transformed from the native wilderness
into one of the most attractive portions of the State, if not of the
West. It is claimed that there is no spot on the face of the earth
capal)lc of sustaining a denser population than the Military Tract;
and those familiar with this beautiful portion of our State know
that Fulton county is not excelled by any other within its boundary.
That this county contains as intelligent, enterjn'ising and thrifty
agriculturists as probably can be found elsewhere in the same breadth
of territory in the Ignited States, few will deny. Fine barns, with all
the modern improvements, comfortable dwellings, lawns, gardens,
out-houses, etc., are to be found on every hand ; towns and cities
have sprung up as if by magic, and every knoll is graced by a church
edifice or school building.
The natural resources of Fulton county, as above alluded to, for
agricultural and manufacturing purposes, and marketing, give to
the farmers and manufacturers of the county su])erior advantages.
The agricultural interests of the county are well advanced. Indeed,
it mav be said that Fulton is the great a<i:ricultural countv of Illinois.
There is a larger nund)er of people living upon the farms of this
county than reside in the rural districts of any other county of this
great State. While there are a number of counties having a larger
pojndation than Me have in Fulton county, yet all of those have
within their boundaries large cities. Outside of the cities there is a
greater population in Fulton than in any other county in the Prairie
State. The soil is mostly rich ])rairie loam, and has great pro-
ductive <pialities. It is mostly divided into farms of medium size,
from 80 to o'H) acres ; but few large farms are to be found. The ben-
efit of this is apparent by the increased population and a l)etter cul-
tivation. The staple crops of cereals are corn, wheat and oats, which
generally yield abundantly. This is the condition of Fulton ecninty
at present. How ditt'erent when John Eveland with his family lo-
cated within its borders ! Then these prairies were a vast wilderness
covered with a i-ank growth of prairie grass, and much of the land
now under a high state of cultivation was covered with heavy for-
ests. At that time the native red men roamed unmolested over the
flowery ])rairies and through dark forests.
Before proceeding further in detailing the immediate history of
the county we desire to mention a few important facts relative to the
ante-pion(>er history of this section of the State. In 1673 the great
HISTORY OF FUT.TOX f'OT'XTY. 19o
French explorers, Marquette and Joliet, passed up the Illinois in
canoes on their return from their famous voyage down the Missis-
sippi. In 1680, January 3, LaSalle, with his little band of French-
men, came down the Illinois river and landed upon the' opj)osite
shore and erected a fort, — Fort Crevecteur. This fort was sotni
evacuated and destroyed, yet the enterprising Frenchmen continued
among the Indians as traders. In 1778 the French made another
settlement, at the upper end of Peoria lake. The country in the
vicinity of this lake was called by the Indians Piin-i-fc-iri, that is,
a ])lace where there are many fat beasts. Here the town of Laville
de Meillet, named after its founder, was started. Within the next
twenty years, however, the town was moved down to the lower end
of the lake to the j)resent site of Peoria. In 1812 the town was
destroyed and the inhabitants carried away by Cai)tain Craig. In
1813 Fort Clark was erected tliere by Illinois trooj)s engaged in the
war of 1812. Five years later it was destroyed by fire.
Year after year rolled by until almost a century and a half had
passed since LaSalle stepped ashore from his skifl', before the aV)()rigi-
nes who occupied the territory eml)raccd ^vithin the present l)oun(larv
of Fulton county were molested by the encroachments of the whit(>
man. Generation after generation of natives a})peared upon the
wild scenes of savage life, roamed the forest and prairie, an<l
glided over the beautiful, placid Illinois and Spoon rivers in tiieii'
log and bark canoes, and passed away. Still the advance of civil-
ization, the steady westward tread of the Anglo-Saxon, disturbed
them not. The buffalo, deer, bear, and wolf roamed the ])rairie and
woodland, tlie Indian tlicir only enemy. But nature had destined
better things for this fertile region. She had been too lavisii in the
distribution of natural advantages to leave it longer in the |)eaeeable
possession of those who had for centuries refused to devehip, even
in the slightest degree, any of her great resources. She accordingly
directed hitherward the footsteps of the industrious, enter})rising
pioneer; and so fertile was the soil, and so beautiful the flowers, so
sparkling were the streams and shady the groves that, in advance of
all the surrounding country, the pioneers sought and settled the
timber land and prairie of Fulton county.
The thrilling scenes through which the [)ioneer settlers passed in
the settlement of this portion of Illinois must ever awaken emotions
of warmest regard for them. To pave the way for those who fol-
lowed after them, to make their settlement in the West a pleasure,
they bore the Hood-tide wave of civilization ; they endured all, suf-
fered all. But few of these spirits now survive ; they have passed
away full of years and honors, leaving their children, and children's
children and strangers to succeed them and enjoy the fruits of the
toil, privations and savings of their long and eventful lives.
Life with them is o'er, their hibors all are done,
And others reap the harvest that they won.
194 HISTORY OF FUT.TOX f'OUNTY.
Too great honor cannot be accorded them, and we regret that we
have not the data to speak more fully and definitely of them, their
])ersf)nal experiences, their lives and their characters.
Dr. Davison, the Hermit. — Undoubtedly the first white man to
make his home within the present boundaries of Fulton county was
Dr. W. T. Davison. The time of his settlement here is not known,
but was at a very early date. We do not know positively that his
name was W. T., but from all we can learn, those must have been
his , initials. There was a "W. T." Davison who served on the first
ffrand inrv ever chosen in the countv, and as we can find no record
of another Davison living in the county at that time (1823), we
must conclude that this grand juror was the eccentric Dr. Davison.
He was leading the life of a hermit on the south bank of Spoon river
near the present town of Waterford when first visited by John Eve-
land, whom we may justly call the first legitimate settler of Fulton
county. He thus continued to live for a few years here, absolutely
refusino: to have anvthin*): to do with his neiohbors. A sketch of
this most singular individual from the lips of the late Mrs. O. M.
Ross has been jilaced on record, which we give below, knowing
that from no other source could a more correct or complete account
of him be obtained.
Mrs. Ross has said, at the time of the birth of Abner E.
Barnes, Mrs. Barnes being very sick, they sent fi)r Dr. Davison, he
being the only physician within hundreds of miles. He sent back
word that he would not go for the whole "Military Tract." Then
Mrs. Ross and ^Irs. Eveland were sent for him, and l)v hard })er-
suadino; thev induced him to make the visit, which thev thought
saved the life of Mrs. Barnes. Mrs. Ross says he lived in a very
small cabin, but all within was neat ; and from the appearance of
things, such as fine bed-clothing, his own clothing having been the
best and fashionably made and himself an educated man, he had
once seen the bright side of life; but from what they could gather
from the few remarks he had dropped, he had been disappointed by
the lady he had expected to make his partner for life, which so de-
pressed him and made him lose all confidence in the human family
that he resolved to push westward so far that he would have no
more associations with civilized man. Mrs. Ross also says that,
from the clearing of his garden, the advancement of his bushes and
shrubbery he had set out, his fiowers, etc., all convinced her that he
had been living there for years, which undoubtedly makes Dr. Da-
vison the first settler of Fulton county. In 1823, when Ossian M.
Ross ran against William P]ads for Sheriif, the excitement was high,
as it was a selection either from Le wisto wn or Peoria ; and as there were
less than thirty voters, every vote told perceptibly in the result. In
this excitement Dr. Davison was persuaded to go to Lewistown and
deposit his first and only vote. He at that day took dinner with
Mr. Ross, and remarked at the table how strange it was to eat a
meal of victuals with his fellow men, which was something he had
HISTOEY OP FULTON COUNTY, 195
not done for many years. He pnrchasetl the walnut boards which
were sawed in the short-lived saw-mill on Otter Creek in 1818, for
his own coffin. He was very much annoyed by the encroachment
of civilization, and about the year 1824 he (juietly gathered his few
effects, with the material for his coffin, and })addled his canoe up the
Illinois river, since which time his old neighbors have not heard
from him.
The late Dr. Reuben R. McDowell thought Dr. Davison to be an
uncle of his wife's (of which there is no doul)t), and made extended
inquiries into the history of his life ; but as the doctor has left no
record of his research we can only obtain such information on this
point as a few of the old settlers obtained from him. He came from
Pennsylvania to this far western country, hoping, like the red men
around him, never to be disturbed by the encroachment of the whites,
or civilization. It is told by some that through the disappointment
he met with by the young lady- whom he loved he lost confidence in
the human family, and desired to have no more intercourse with any
one. Another tradition is left to us as a reason for his adopting the
life of a hermit, which is this : He joined the I'egular army and was
sent into the Southern States. Being insulted while an officer of
rank he challenged the officer who offended him to fight a duel.
The affair of honor was fought, and the doctor killed his opponent.
Through remorse, as mnch as the fear of the law, he sought the wild-
erness of the banks of S}X)on river. We are also told that instead
of having purchased lumber for his coffin he made one by digging it
out of a log. Hon. L. W. Ross, of Lewistown, and Henry An-
drews, of Canton, remember seeing Davison, and say he was a fine-
looking man. He left in 1824 and went to Starved Rock, on the
Illinois river near Peru, Avhere he died. He kept a journal, which
was sent back to two sisters he had in Pennsylvania. This is all,
after a careful research, that we are able to learn of Dr. W. T.
Davison.
John Ei'dand, the first actual settler, came with his family to what
is now Fulton county in the spring of 1820. He landed half a
mile north of the present town of Waterford, on the southeast
quarter of section 10, Waterford township. He was from Kentucky,
and came into Calhoun county. 111., where he had a brother living,
a few years prior to his coming here. He was of the same type of
Kentuckian as the famous explorer, Daniel Boone. He brought
with him a large family, ])erhaps ten or twelve children. Among
his children were John, Henry, Mace, William and Amos, the latter
of whom but recently died in the old neighborhood. He lived on
Spoon river but a few years when he moved to Buckheart township,
where he soon died, and where his widow also died. There is now
no building where he first settled. Mr. Eveland was a finely formed,
square-built man, of l)ut little education, quiet and hospitable. He
became a prominent man in the early history of Fulton county. He
was appointed its first Treasurer, but declined the office. When he
196 HISTOKY OF FUI/rOX COUNTY.
arrived in the county lie found besides Mr. Davison a man by the
name of Statler. This individual was livino: in a rude boat floating
on the bosom of Spoon river about where Waterford is now situated.
He shortly afterwards left the country, and nothing more is known
of him. At this time, it must be remembered, this county was a
part of Pike eonnty, but it did not long so remain.
A saw-mill was erected by a St. Lonis tirm, Craig ct Savage, on
Otter creek, in Kcrton township, in 181<S. This tirm had sawed a
a part of their first log when a sudden rise in the stream carried
their mill away, and the site was abandoned. This ])erha})S was the
iirst enterprise undertaken in the Military Tract.
Oissi((n M. Jio.ss. Tohn Eveland had scarcely got snugly settled
in his new home on the banks of Spoon river ere Ossian M. Ross
and-family came in to be his neighbors, and t<» wield a greater influ-
ence in molding and forming the history of the county perhaps than
anv other family that ever resided in it. Ossian M. Ross was b<n'n
in \ew York State Aug. 10, 1790, and was united in marriage with
Miss Mary Winans in Waterloo, X. Y., Jnly 7, 1811. Mrs. Ross
was horn A))ril 1, 179o, in Morris county, X. J. Mr. Ross was a
soldier in the war of 1812, and came to this section to secure the
land triven him bv Government for services rendered as a soldier.
In 1820 Mr. Ross with his family came to Alton, 111., and in the
spring of the following year (1821), with his family and a few men
employed by him to make improvements, sailed up the Illinois river
to Otter creek in a keel-boat. It was his intention to locate upon
the southeast (piarter of section 29, Isabel townshij). He with three
companions came up from Alton the year previous (1820), ex-
plored this country, and selected this place because there was
a good mill-seat there. It was his intention to erect a water-mill
on this stream at that point; Init after traveling up Otter creek for
some distance in their cumbersome keel-boat thev came to a large
tree fallen across the stream, which made a barrier that could
not be passed over or around. These sturdy pioneers, hoM'ever,
were not easily turned from their course. They made preparations
to saw the log into pieces and remove it. This scheme was frustrat-
ed, however, and the whole course of Mr. Ross' plans changed. A
heavy rain fell during the night, and in the morning the log they
intended sawing was six to eight inches under water and therefore
out of reach of workmen. He ran his boat stern foremost back
down Otter creek to the Illinois, ^uid up that stream to Spoon river.
He entered this stream and started up its swift swollen waters for
Mr. Eveland's, intending to go on to where he owned three quarter-
sections of land. They experienced the greatest ditiiculty in ascend-
ing this turbulent stream, made so by recent heavy rains. It
consumed several days of constant hard labor to reach Eveland's.
At ])laces men were put upon the bank and with ropes dragged the
boat along. This Mas slow motive power and known as cordelling.
Then they wf)uld get liold of the overhanging limbs of trees and
HISTORY OF FFI.TOX COUNTY. 197
pull the boat along in that way. They finally reached Eveland's,
in whose cabin the party was welcomed. There they remained un-
til his teams and stock arrived. These were brought across the
country. Mr. Ross with his teams then started for his own land,
where Lewistown now is. j\Ien were sent ahead to cut down trees
and clear a road. On arriving at the end of the journey Mr. Ross
iubilantlv exclaimed to his familv, "We are now on our own land."
His daughter, Mrs. Steel, of Canton, who was then a little girl,
quickly spoke up, "Why, pa, have we come all this distance just for
this?" Xothing but a vast wilderness was s])read out before them
and the little girl expected to find something wonderfully fine, else
they would not have endured all the hardships that had befallen them
on their long journey. There have been many hearts made sad by
the disappointment received on their arrival into this county (hiring
its first settlement when, after traveling for weeks through an al-
most unbroken country, the husband and father would stop his jaded
team under the boughs of a large tree many miles from the nearest
white inhabitant and say, " Our journey's end is readied. This is
our home. Alight." Surely, as it did to little JNIiss Ross, it must
have seemed to the wife and little ones that they had come a long
way to make their home in the wilderness among the wild beasts.
In twenty-four hours after arrival Mr. Ross had a shelter made
for his family. It consisted of poles set in the ground tent fashion
and other poles laid across these and covered with bark. Harvey
L. Ross, his son, says he distinctly remembers helj)ing carry bark to
cover this shantv. Mr. Ross immediatelv set about buildinj): a log
cabin, which was located where Major Newton Walker's residence
now stands. He was so well pleased with the location of his land
that he determined to lay off a town, which he did, and secured for it
the county-seat for the county of Fulton when it was organized.
Among those who came with Mr. Ross AvereMr. Nimon and wife.
He was a blacksmith and lived here a long time. Mr. Ross also
brought with him a shoemaker bv the name of Swetliup;. He and
Nimon died many years ago, and were buried in the eastern part of
Lewistown near where the old Presbyterian church stood, which
was the first burying ground in the county.
Fenuer Brothers. — Hon. L. W. Ross tells us that when they came
to the county there were two brothers, Roswell and Reuben, by the
name of Fenner, living at Eveland's. We find frequent mention
made of these pioneers in the earliest records of tiie county. They
were both unmarried men when they came to the county, but did
not long remain so. A few years afterwards one of them was ar-
rested for whipping his wife. Judge Stephen Phel})s, of Lewis-
town, defended him, and declared that according to law and the
scriptures a man had a right to chastise his wife.
The Serc/eants and Barnes. — Theodore Sergeant, his brother,
Charles Sergeant, David W. Barnes and William Blanchard, vet-
erans of the war of 1812, at their discharge determined to come
IDS HISTORY OF Fri>TON C'OrNTY.
west. From Detroit, Mich., they went to Fort Wayne, whence
they journeyed in a canoe to Vincennes, thence to St. Louis. From
there they came up the Illinois in a keel-boat, manned by a fishing-
crew, and commanded by a man named AVarner. They landed at
Ft. Clark, now Peoria, in the spring of 1819. Crossing the river
to what is known as the bottom lands they found a cleared spot, and
with such tools as they could arrange from Avood put in a patch of
corn and potatoes. This land is now em1)odied in Fond du Lac
township, Tazewell eounty. Looking farther down they found an
old French field of about ten acres, upon which they erected a rude
habitation. This was the firet settlement between Ft. Clark and
vicinity and Chicago, and theirs was the first dwelling erected.
These daring ex])lorers were looking up the "l)0unty land" Con-
gress had given them, which was in the ^Military Tract. Learning
the location of his land Sergeant soon made a trip to Fulton county
to look at it. He found it to be located in the breaks on Big creek,
several miles south of Canton. This was not a desirable location.
He reported to his com})anions, however, that there were fine lands,
good timber and plenty of water a few miles north of his land, and
advised them to come and settle there. Accordingly, in 1821,
Charles and Theodore and D. AV. Barnes came to Fulton county
and made a temporary settlement near the mouth of Spoon river.
Li 1830 Blanchard moved to Woodford county, where he yet
resides.
Theodore and Charles Sergeant, John Pixley and Henry Andrews
lived with D. W. Barnes at Ft. Clark (now Peoria). The latter,
a brother-in-law of Barnes, had lost both his parents while living at
Ft. Clark. Pixley had served in the war of 1812, and was a brav^,
daring man. One day a stalwart Indian in boasting of his bravery,
of having killed men, women and children, said he had once taken
a little child by the heels and beat its brains out on the corner of a
cabin. He boasted thus to Pixley and others and told how the little
creature raised its hands, quivering. This the brutal savage thought
showed bravery. There were two hundred Indians around and but
eight white men ; l)ut this did not deter the plucky Pixley from
giving the Indian a good whipping. He had bought a rawhide,
at St. Louis, and when the Indian finished his story he took the
rawhide down from between the clapboards of the roof of their cabin,
and lit u])on the Indian and threshed him till the blood spurted from
his mouth. He flogged him most severely, and so fearless and reso-
lute was he that not an Indian raised an objection.
While Mr. Barnes and his companions lived at Ft. Clark the In-
dians threatened to kill the whites during a certain moon. The In-
dians then reckoned time by moons. If they owed a debt it was
due at a certain moon. The Indians being offended determined
to kill the whites. There were but eight or ten men, mostly young
soldiers of the war of 1812, to i)i-otect the women and children. The
moon arrived and a slaughter was expected. The women and
HISTORY OF FUT.TOX (OrXTY. 191»
chiklren were put in Barnes' cabin and tlie latch string pulled in,
while the men with their trusty rifles stood outside. They sent
word for the Indians to come on, but their courage subsided before
the superior courage of the whites,
Barnes with his family came on to Lewistown and became the
neighbor of O. M. R^)ss. While living at this place Mr. Barnes
hauled a load of salt from the mouth of Spoon river, where the
river craft had frozen up, to Ft. Clark. This was a perfectly wild
country and of course no roads. He made this trij), which con-
sumed several davs, and in remuneration received one bushel of salt.
This was a most precious article at that time, and indeed for many
years afterwards.
AVhile residing at Lewistown the Indians would steal his pota-
toes and everything else they could get their hands upon. One
niffht while an Indian was stealiui)- his iiotatoes he was attacked l)v
their watch dog, which tore from his blanket a small piece. This
was a clue for Mr. Barnes to use in finding the thief. He took the
piece and went among the Indians, and finally found a red man with
a blanket that had in it a hole the size and shape of the piece he had.
This brave he concluded was the thief, which he proved to be.
Mr. Barnes soon left Lewistown and located two and a half miles
north of the present city of Canton. He traded 80 acres of land he
owned in the upper part of Lewistown for the 1(50 acres he located
upon in Canton township. He made this trade because he was get-
ting; crowded at Lewistown and all was a vast wilderness at Canton.
Mr. Henry Andrews remembers very distinctly this move. He was
a small l)oy and ran along in the Indian trail behind the wagon, and
ifot so far behind at one time that he became verv much frightened
lest he be left. He also remembers very distinctly the time two In-
dians came to their cabin shortly after they had settled in their
new home, to stay all night. They were traveling toward Chicago,
and it being in the fall of the year the weather was cool and they
did not like to sleej) out in the cold if they could get a cabin to rest
in. Barnes' cabin contained only one room, yet they permitted the
two red men to stay with them. They alighted from their ])onies,
gave Mrs. Barnes, the chomokoman's wife as they called her, a quar-
ter of a deer and passed into the house. They set their guns up in
the corner, hung up their bullet ])ouch, tomahawk, and scalping
knives, and lay down before the large fire-place. They cut oft' a
large piece of venison, j)ut it on a stick and fixed it before the fire.
During the night they would occasionally turn it, thus cooking it
thoroughly. This they intended should last them several days. We
fear there are few of the present day who would permit two tram])s
to sleep in the same room they do even without all the implements
of death at hand, as these Indians had. They might have arisen
and murdered the entire househfdd, and many days, perhaps months
hav^e elapsed before any other white man would have known of it.
200 HISTORY OF FULTOX COU^'TY.
Those pioneers were fearless and had much more confidence in their
red neighbors than we are wont to believe.
Mr. Barnes lived on the very frontier. His was the last cabin
travelers passed on the road to Ft. Clark and the first they met go-
ing,' south. It was therefore a stopping- place for travelers going
both ways. Judge Stephen Phelps, who was living at Lewistown,
was traveling toward Chicago. With him were his wife and daughter.
They stopped for the night at Barnes' caVjin. The cabin was small
and the night warm, and Miss Emily Phelps, the daughter, took her
blanket out doors and spread it under the boughs of a tree and
passed the night alone in the forest. There are but few of the
young ladies of to-day who woidd not shrink from making their bed
in such a spot.
When Mr. Barnes left Lewistown lie also left the only blacksmith
• shop in this whole region of country. Mr. Henry Andrews tells us
he remembers Mr. Barnes shouldering up the plowshare of his
large prairie breaking ])low and going M'ith it, on foot, to Lewistown
to the blacksmith shop.
It may seem strange, but the very earliest settlers suffered from
want of meat. The Indians had driven game almost entirely awav
and the wild liog had not yet apjieared. Mr. Andrews tells us that
a lady at Lewistown (they were known as neighbors then, although
fifte(»n miles away ) sent to one of their neighbors at Canton one-
half of a brant. Meat was then a great luxury, and this piece of
fowl Mr. Andrews savs seemed to be worth an ox. It, though
so small, was divided among the settlers at Canton. He also tells
us he went to a neighbor's on a visit at one time and the only food
set before him, or the family, was boiled potatoes and salt, and this
latter article was very scarce. He also says that during the first
settlement of this county men wore moccasins and buckskin pants
and shirts and coonskin caps almost altogether, li' they had a cot-
ton or woolen shirt it was worn only on important occasions.
When Eliza Andrews, a sister of Henry Andrews, died, they had
no lumber out of which to make a c(»ffin, but dug a receptacle for
the body out of a log.
During the great txalena-lead-jnines excitement in 1827 Mr.
Barnes went to Galena. He did not reniain long but returned to his
home near Canton.
tSerf/cani's Wcddin;/. — Barnes was the only married man in tlic
party (from Fort Clark) and Sergeant lived ^vith Barnes un-
til his marriage, Nov. o, 1824, when he was united with Miss
Mary Brown. This was one of the earliest weddings of the
county, and the following interesting description of it was fur-
nishetl Mr. Swan by Henry Andrews, a member of the wedding
party:
" This wedding was a great event in the Barnes neigh-
borhood. It occurred at the cabin of Daniel Brown, the father of
the bride. All the neighbors were invited, and probably all were
HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY. 2()1
assembled in the cabin ; still, though small, it was not nearly full.
The bride was gorgeously appareled in a checked linsey homespun
dress, a three-cornered handkerchief about her neck, and ^ her feet
encased in moccasins. The groom also wore moccasins, and a full
suit of new linsey, colored with butternut bark. The guests were
dressed much the same and were seated upon [)uncheon benches
around the sides of the cabin. Captain Barnes, at that time County
Commissioner, performed the marriage ceremony with due and be-
coming dignity. At the conclusion of the ceremony all the gentle-
men present saluted the bride. When this ceremony was com-
pleted, old Mr. Brown produced a ' noggin ' of whisky and a
bran-new tin cup — then considered a very aristocratic drinking-ves-
sel — and passed the customary beverage to all present. All drank
from the cup, filling it from the 'noggin ' when em])ty, and passing
it from hand to hand until again empty. The liquor soon began to
make the guests merry, and jokes and songs were considered to be
in order, (xeorue Matthews, a gav old bachelor, was considered a
fine ballad-singer, and sang a song that would scarcely be considered
appropriate on a festive occasion at this day. Mr. Andrews gives
from memorv two verses of the ballad:
"There's the silly old man
Of a hundredand twenty,
Who pines on his riches.
Though stores he has plenty.
"He'll exchange all his riches.
His lands and his rents,
For a worm-eaten coffin,
A hundred years hence.
" This song was vigorously a]>])lauded, and was followed by sev-
eral others of the same sort. The partv dispersed about eleven
o'clock."
Sergeant would have been united in marriage sooner than he was,
and then would have been the first man married in the county "had
the old lady been willin'." He made a proposal for the hand of the
lady for whom it is claimed the honor of being the first woman
married in the county. AVe take his story of his proposal from
Swan's Canton History :
^' I had made up my mind that I ought to have a housekeeper,
and accordingly had mv eve out for one. Somehow I heard that
there was an old lady living d<twn toward the mouth of S])oon riv-
er bv the name of AVent\V(»rth, who had some gals that wanted to
marry ; so I concluded I would go down and see about it. I did so,
and on arriving there at once made mv business known to old Mrs.
AVeutworth. The old lady looked me over, with the air of a judge
of the article she wanted', and began her catechism by asking me
what I followed, my age, and where I was from. I told her that I
was twenty-nine years old, had been five years a soldier, and thought
I could manage a wife ; that I was from Barnes' settlement, was
202 HISTORY OF FUI.TOX COUNTY.
opening a farm, and wanted a gal to help me pull through the start.
The old lady f^hook her head and informed me that I would not suit
her gals, as she had made up her mind that they should all jnarry
store-keepers. I told her, if that was the ease I reekoned her gals
would not suit me, as I wanted one that would })ull with me on the
start. Sero-eant returned to Canton from this unsuceessful wooino-
and reported the result to the few young men in that part of the
county. They at once determined to get even with the family whose
notions were so aristocratic. There was an occasional peddler,
named Clark, who came through the county on horseback, carrying
needles, thread and other small wares in a sack, dividing his stock
into ecpial ])roportions and balancing it over his saddle. This Clark
was the first ])eddler who visited the county. Clark was not a man
of much force of character, and it was determined to send him after
the Wentworth girls. He readily acceded to the proposition, and
soon visited Mrs. AV. In reply to her interrogations, Clark in-
formed the old lady that he resided in Peoria, and sold goods for a
livelihood. This tilled the old lady's bill, and she at once gave her
daughter to Clark in marriage ; and Sergeant thinks theirs was the
first wedding celebrated in the county. Tt took place a few weeks
])rior to Sergeant's wedding.
''George S. McConnell, however, relates an incident connected
with the first court held in the county, and the spring or early sum-
mer of the same year, which establishes the fact that Clark's could
not have been the first wedding, as at that court a couple were di-
vorced, the woman l)eing a sister of the Tottens, and the same nigiit
the divorced woman was married to one of the jurors, by the name
of Williams, who had tried the cause."
"When my commission comes.'' — The following certificate whether
true or not is certainly rich. It was ])ublished in a history of Illi-
nois as early as 1837, and the author of that claims to have copied it
from a historv of Peoria countv. It therefore is nothinp; new, and
might be accredited owing to its age if for nothing else. The Jus-
tice of the Peace, O. M. R., we suppose was none other than Ossian
M. Ross, the well-known founder of Lewistown. We give it with
the writer's comments as copied in the old liistory of 1837, from the
History of Peoria county :
"Examining a land title the other day which involved a question
of legitimacy, I stumbled upon the following marriage certificate,
which is decidedly too good to be lost, and is literally bona fide. Th.e
marriage, of which this is the only legal evidence, took place in Cop-
peras precinct (now in Fulton county ), in the infancy of the county,
or rather in ])rimitive times, and the magistrate ought to l)e immor-
talized, whether he gets his commission or not:"
State ok Illinois, )
Peoria County J "
To all the World Greeting : — Know ye, that John Smith and Poly Myers is
hereby entitled to go together and do as old folks does anywhere inside of
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 203
Copperas precinct, and when my commision comes I am to marry 'em good,
and date 'em back to kiver accidents.
[ L. s. ] 0. M. R- — , Justice Peace.
f)fhfr s'^efflers. — In 1822 James and Charles Gardner, with a com-
panion, loft Sano^amon eonnty for Fnlton. The party crossed the
Illinois river at Peoria, where they found three settlers, John L.
Bogardns, Capt. Eads and Aqnila Moifatt. They journeyed on
and met no other white person until they arrived at Lewistown.
Thev explored the county and found a suitable location on section
34, Isabel township, where they sowed some garden and apple seed.
They then returned to Sangamon after their families. They were
ferried over the Illinois at Havana by John Eveland. In the spring
of 1823 Messrs. Gardner, assisted by a Mr. Higgins, built a flat-boat
on the Sanwimon river in which thev moved to their new homes.
Duriug the summer of 1823 the flat-boat was taken for a ferryboat
at Havana, and old Mr, Scoville was the first ferryman.
Charles Gardner returned to Sangamon county about twenty years
ago and there died. James died here a few years ago. Their |>ar-
ents, who came with them when they first moved to this county,
passed the remainder of their lives here.
Besides these pioneers there were others who cauie in shortly after-
wards. Among these were licJ^ert Reeves, who settled on Keeves'
Prairie, Deerfield townshi]), in 1823. William Totteu located on
T(jtten's Prairie, Cass township, the same year, and about the same
time came Roswell Tyrrell and John Totten, who settled upon the
same section. Thomas Cameron came the following vear ( 1 S24 ).
Joshua Moore settled in Joshua townshij), from whom it received its
name, in 1824. He was closely followed in that townshi]^ by I^evi
D. Ellis, who in 1823 moved to Ellisville township and was its
first settler. Reading Putman settled on section 2, Putman town-
ship, in 1828, and Stephen Chase settled in the southern part of the
township the same year.
The FIr.sf Mall Carrien^. — Harvey L. Ross, a sou of Ossian M.
Ross, and now a resident of Macomb, 111., at the age of 15 years
was employed to carry the mail from Springfield to Monmouth, a
distance of one hundred and thirty-five miles, making a tri]) each
week. He would often have to swim streams three or four times
each day with the mail-bag stra])ped across his shoulders. At that
time (1832) there Mas no direct road from Knoxville to Monmouth,
a distance of twenty miles, and not a single house between the two
])oints. His only guide along the route was ])oints of tindier. He
tells us that he still has a vivid recollection of the imminent danger
he found himself in one stormy night in January, when in the vi-
cinity of the present city of Galesburg he heard a pack of hungry
wolves set up a tremendous howling a few rods behind him. It
may be imagined that the young hero, in that vast wilderness on a
mid-winter night with wild and savage beasts howling on every
iiand, lost no time in reaching the end of his journey. The only
204 HISTORY OF FTLTOX COT'XTY.
postoffices along the route were Springfield, Sangamon Town, New
Salem, Havana, Lewistown, Canton, Farmington, Knoxville and
Monmouth. Abraham Lincoln, our martyr President, was then
])ostmaster of Xew Salem, receiving his aj)pointment on the recom-
mendation of (^ssian M. Ross, who Mas one of the oklest postmas-
ter-; in the country, and the only postmaster at that time within the
boundaries of the present ]\Iason county. After Harvey L. Koss
had carried the mail over that long, dangerous and desolate route
for a considerable time, his father let out a part of the route to Ma-
lon AVinans, an uncle of Mr. Ross'. Mr. Winans, who lived at
Lewistown, was given that part of the line from Lewistown to Mon-
mouth. AVinans had a son that he intended to put upon the route,
but concluded to go over it himself first tliat he might make all
necessary arrangements fi)r stopping-places. Rut his first trip was
his last, for in attempting to swim Spoon river with the mail-bag
strap])ed to his back he was drowned. This was in 1834 and was
the first death to occur in Truro township, Knox countv. His
body was afterwards fimnd in a drift of wood one-half mile beh)W
the crossing. A coffin was made by the settlers l)y splitting a log
lengthAvise and hollowing it out, using one part as the body of the
coffin and the other jiart the lid. Ry these kind but strange hands
a grave was dug ujion the bank of the river beneath the boughs of a
young iiickory tree and the l)ody of Mr. ^^'inans placed therein.
L^])on the trunk of the tree the letters "P. W." were cut and are vis-
ible to this day. They made a mistake in the initial of his given
name, in making it "P" instead of 'OL"
.4 Trddiin/ Erpcrllfion. — Harvey Tj. Ross in his youthful davs was
fond of hunting and trading with the Indians. When l)ut
seven years of age he had killed wild turkeys, geese and small game
of almost everv kind, and at twelve thoui^ht nothini>- of killing; a
deer. He says he also remembei-s catching twelve wolves in less
than a month in steel-tra])S ])laced near a dead horse. He relates
some incidents of the first trading expedition in which he was en-
gaged, which occurred in 1828. He started from I^ewistown in
company with Eldward Plude, a Frenchman and Indian interpreter,
and "Rill" Elveland, son of John Eveland spoken of elsewhere in
this volume. P^veland was a large, powerful man, well ac([uainted
with the country and familiar with the Indian character. They
loaded a two-horse wagon, at Lewistown, with goods and traveled
through what is now known as Knox and Peoria counties, where
they found a large number of Indians and traded their goods to ad-
vantage. They returned home with their wagon loaded with furs
and deerskins. They were gone three weeks and had traveled about
one hundred and fiftv miles, meeting: onlv with two white settlers
after leaving the neighborhood of Canton.
Frightened by Indians. — In speaking of Indians Mr. Ross tells us
he cannot remember of ever being frightened by the Indians but
once. In 1825, when but eight years of age, his father sent him to
HISTORY OF FUI.TON rOUXTY. 205
an old shoemaker by the name of Stephen Meeker, livino- about four
miles east of Lewistown, to have some work done. In coming home
with a sack of shoes across his horse, and when he had traveled
about half the distance along- the little path through heavy timber and
thick underbrush, he came suddeidy upon live or six redskins, who
were sitting upon the ground. One of the Indians jum])ed up and
made a grab at his bridle reins, l)ut young Ross turned his horse
(piickly around; and giving him a cut with his whip, hurried back
to Meeker's and related his story. Meeker at once took down his
rifle, loaded it, and cutting a hickory club, went back with him.
When the Indians saw^ Meeker with his rifle and club they com-
menced to apologize, stating that they were not going to hurt the
bov. They had been to Lewnstown to trade and had been drinking,
and ])robaV>ly only desired to see what was in the sack and scare the
voung traveler.
The earlv recollections of Mr. Koss are many indeed, and his ex-
perience in pioneer life in Fulton county was proliably greater than
that of any man now living. He remembers partaking of a piece
of fat bear, in 1(S29, killecl by Andrew Laswell near the present
town of Cuba.
Thv Battle of ^la/oni/'.^ Fcrri/. — The advance guard of civilization,
those fearless persons who boldly strike into the Avildness of a
new conntrv aixl open the road for the sturdy settlers, encounter
hardship'^ and dangers which can but faintly be pictured in word-
painting. Those who first came into this county met the red man
in his wigwam or on the chase. Indeed, Indians were numerous for
many years after the county was settled, and, although friendly,
were often quite troub]esom(\
In 1828, about the middle of May, John Walters, Norman Scho-
field, Edward Stocking, Simon Kelsey, and an old man by the name
of Ensign, came up the Illinois on their little river craft to Malony's
ferrv at the mouth of Spoon river. They brought with them from
St. Louis a barrel of whisky for Mr. Malony, the accommodat-
ing gentleman who carried the pilgrims over the Illinois at that
point, ^\lliskv, it must be remembered, was considered an indis-
j)ensable article for the household and the most desirable and ])rofit-
able commodity for tavern-kee])ers. Then, as now, however, it was
a source of no little trouble and many bruised heads. The men
landed at the ferry but found no one there. Mr. Malony and his
sons were back in the timber cutting wood. They rolled the barrel
of li(pi(tr upon the ferryboat, left it and started overland for Lewis-
town. After proceeding abont a mile and a half from the ferry
William Nichols came running after them for help. No sooner had
the barreLof whisky been landed and the little band departed, than
twenty-six or 'seven Indians w^ere attracted to it, by its fumes
we suppose; any way, just as Malony appeared u])on the scene from
the timber he found his barrel of whisky standing on end with two
or three stalwart braves making a desperate effort to break in the
20() HISTORY OF FUT/rON COTXTV.
head. A score of anxious redskins stood around jubilant over the rich
bootv they had found. Malony could do nothing more than give
them all to drink. A band of drunken Indians are the most des-
])crate and uncontrollable of all beings. The worst wa< feared and
therefore Nichols had been sent to obtain hel]). The squaws antici-
pated trouble and hurriedly secreted all of their guns. The men, five
in number, — although Mr. Ensign, who wore spectacles owing to his
short-sightedness, was feeble and could do but little, — all started
back for the ferry with their canes in their hands ready for an emer-
gencv. Schofield could speak the Indian language, and on their ar-
rival at the ferry told the Indians to leave. This enraged them, and
thev swore bitterly at the whites and told them to leave. At this
Schofield, fearless of consequences, knocked the leading speaker down.
This was the signal for the fray to begin, and every man went to
knocking right and left with his cane. The Indians were " pretty
full," but the eifects of the liquor had not fully reached the brain.
The whites fi)ught their multiplied foe with great desperation. Some
vears previous Kelsey had l)een shot in the knee, and when he Avould
exercise it hard it would give down. He was in great danger and
started to run to save himself, but fell, overtaken by two drunken
redskins. Walters, who was oft* some distance, Avas attracted by the
cries of Kelsey, He saw one of the braves with knife in hand reach-
to thrust his victim through. He was fieet of foot and daslied to-
ward the trio, and just as the drunken savage raised his knife fi)r its
deadly work he struck him over the head with iiis cane, knocking
him down and thus savinir the life of Kelsev. In doiiiii' this, how-
ever, he placed himself in danger, for in striking the Indian his
cane flew from his hands. Seeing this the other Indian took after
him. Walters proved the fleetest runner and widened the distance
between them. While running up a hill he gathered up a stone
which he hurled at his ])ursuer with such force and accuracy as to
" fetch his head and knees togetiier." This gave him an opportunity
ttt run back after his cane, which he took advantage of and secured
his trusty weapon. The battle was short but fierce, and the whites
proved the victors. Mr. Walters tells us that his brother William,
an old and respected settler of this county, who died only recently,
wore that very cane for fi)rty years. For years it bore the marks r(>-
ceived when it struck doAvn the brutal savage who was about to
end Kelsey's life. This was the kind of a reception these gentlemen
received ujion their introduction into Fulton county.
Trouble in Scftliii;/ f/ic MUitury Tract. — The "^lilitary Tract" com-
prises all the land between the Illinois and the Mississippi rivers
south of the north line of Bureau and Henry counties. It is so
called because much of it was "jiatented" by Government, in quar-
ter sections, to soldiers of the war of 1812. There was scarcely a
soldier in that early day who counted his land of much value, and
ever thought to occupy it himself; but inunigrants came in, entered
Government lands and squatted on "patent" or military land, im-
Sp^^i^v.
J, /(./^<Y^ll
DECEASED
CANTON
■■ILil/MI t
OF THE
'^^■inniTY OF ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 209
proved it, and thus rendered it valual)le. Tt Avas seldom that a
'•patentee" could be found at tlie time of settlement, and many of
the early settlers presumed that the owner never would be known ;
but in manv instances, after a patent quarter-section Avas made val-
uable by improvement, the orio:inal patent would be brought on by
some one, Avho would oust the occupant and take possession, some-
times paying him something for his improvements and sometimes
not. Manv holders of patents had no pity. This condition of af-
fairs presented a temptation to merciless ''land-sharks," who would
come into this section and work uj) cases, ostensibly for the original
patentees, but really for their own pockets. The most notorious of
these was one Toliver Craig, who actually made it a business to
forge patents and deeds. This he carried on extensively from 1847
to 1854, especially in Knox and Fulton counties. He had 40 bogus
deeds put on record in one day at Knoxville. He was arrested in
New York State in 1854, by O. M. Boggess of Monmouth, and
taken to the jail at Cincinnati, Ohio, where he attempted suicide by-
arsenic ; but at the end of a year he was released on bail.
When the Military Tract was laid off into counties, most of them
were named in honor of the military heroes of the nation, mostly
of the war of 181*2 ; but Fulton county, the largest one in the
Military Tract, was not christened in honor of a soldier-hero. Its
name is not a symbol of blood- and battle. It is true that our na-
tion was born in blood and saved by blood, and the memoiy of
those brave heroes should be commemorated; l)ut there are other
illustrious heroes, who knew not \var, e(|ually deserving. Among
these stand in the front the great inventive genius, Robert Fulton,
in honor of whom Fulton county was named. We deem it fitting
to give a brief personal sketch of this gentleman, whose name this
county wears.
Robert Fulton was born near Lancaster, in Pennsylvania, in 1765.
His father, an Irish tailor, came to this country in early life, and
soon retired to a farm in Lancaster county. The father of Benjamin
West, the celebrated artist, and the father of Robert Fulton were
neighbors and warm friends. At the age of twenty-one Rob-
ert left home and sailed for England to seek instruction from Benja-
min AVest. He remained with liim for several years ; but, although
an excellent draughtsman, a good colorist, and a diligent workman,
he had not the artist's imagination or temperament. His mind was
mechanical ; he loved to contrive, to invent, to construct ; and we
find him, accordingly, withdrawing from art and busying himself
more and more with mechanics, until at length he adopted the
profession of civil engineering. Robert Fulton was not the in-
ventor of the steam-boat. It is, nevertheless, to his knowledge of
mechanics, and to his resolution and perseverance, that the world is
indebted for the final triumph of that invention. His attention was
called to the subject by the operations of John Fitch, the inventor
of the steam-boat, in 1785. Next, fifteen years later, Fulton visit-
14
210
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY,
ted a steam-boat in Scotland. He then fell in Avith Chancellor Liv-
ingston, American minister to France, and constructed a boat and
propelled it by steam upon the Seine in France. This was not a
success. He then returned to Xew York and built the famous
Clermont. On Monday, Sept. 10, 1807, he left New York for Al-
bany on his famous trial trip. He was laughed at and jeered, but
at one o'clock the Clermont moved from the dock, vomiting smoke
and sparks from her pine-wood fires. She reached Albanv Wednes-
day at five o'clock. Returning immediately to New York, she made
the trip in thirty hours, — exactly five miles an hour. Fulton devot-
ed the rest of his life to the improvement of the steam-boat, and
lived to see his labors universally recognized, and acquired a consid-
erable fortune. He died Feb. 24, 1815, aged fifty years, and his
remains were consigned to Trinitv Church vard in the eitv of New
York.
CHAPTER II.
EARLY SETTLEMENT.— CONTINUED.
Early Preachers. — Je.sse Williams and Peter Cartwright were
among the earliest preachers of the county. John M. Ellis was,
however, not much if at all behind them in paying attention to this
field. There were in the vicinity of Canton a good many Regular
Baptists, who organized a church in the Eveland neighborhood at
quite an early day, probably before, certainly not later than, 1825.
We take the following from Canton History :
"James Tatum, one of their pioneer preachers, used to edify his
congregation by relating his call to preach, in the words and figures
that follow, to wit :
"'My dearly beloved brethering-ah and sisters-ah, my blessed
master-ah has called me to dispense his everlasting gospel-ah.
For one night-ah, in a vision, in a vision of the night-ah, I
dreamed-ah that I had swallowed a stiflF-tongued four-horse wagon
-ah, and me thought-ah that the tongue of the wagon-ah was
a stickin' out of my mouth-ah, and the chains were hanging down
beside my chin-ah, and the chains were a rattlin'-ah, and the
tongue was a waggin'-ah ; and my beloved brethering-ah and sis-
ters-ah, I knowed that God had called me to preach his everlasting
gospel-ah ; and I'm a-goin' to preach it-ah until the day that
I die-ah.
" The same preacher exemplified the doctrine of ' once in grace,
always in grace', in this wise:
"'My dear brethering and sisters-ah, when a -soul is once con-
verted-ah, it allers stays converted-ah. Its just like me the other
day-ah. I was going to Canton-ah, and as I rid past old Mr.
Eggers-ah, old sister Eggers ran out-ah, and she hollered, ' Broth-
er Tatum-ah, won't you take a coon-skin to town-ah, and sell it
and buy me a plug of smokin' terbacker-ah ? ' And I said, ' Sartiu,
sister Eggers-ah ; ' and I took the coon-skin-ah, and when I
got to town I tried to sell it to Joel Wright-ah, but he said coon-
skins wern't of much account now-ah, and he wouldn't buy it-ah ;
so I took it to Mr. Stillman-ah, and he wouldn't buy it ueither-ah ;
then I tried to give it to Mr. Stillman-ah, and he wouldn't have it
-ah, and then I took it back to Joel Wright-ah, and tried to give
it to hini-ah, but he wouldn't have it neither-ah. So I bought
212 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
sister Eggers a plug of terbacker-ah, and tied the coon-skin to my
saddle-ah, a thinkin' for to lose it-ah, and I started for to go back
-ah, and when I got most back to sister Eggers-ah, I heard some-
body behind me a hoUerin', "Mr. Tatum-ah, Mr. Tatum-ah ;" and
mv brethering and sisters-ah, when I looked back-ah, I seed a
man a comin'-ah with that very coon-skin in his haud-ah, a
hollerin' " Mr, Tatum-ah^ you've lost your coon-skin-ah." And so
mv brethering and sisters-ah, it is with religion ; you can't sell it-
ah, vou can't give it away -ah, and you can't lose it.'"
fraininy Day. — The following graphic account of the first train-
ing Harrison P. Fellows witnessed in Illinois is but a picture of
others, and will illustrate the scenes of training day much better
than we could describe them. AVe take the stor^', as furnished by
Mr. Fellows, from the Canton History.
" It Avas in the summer of 1830, we had just moved to the coun-
trv, and my father, Hiram Fe}lows, had rented part of Captain
Haacke's house. I soon found out in some way that Haacke was
a captain of a militia company ; and as I had some knowledge of
militia captains in Xew York, where we came from, I was tilled
with an intense awe of the Captain. One day I mustered up cour-
age to ask him if I might see them muster some time, and received
akiud and cordial invitation to accompany him to the next training.
I was in ecstasies, and looked forward with great anxiety to the ex-
pected day. It came at last, and the Captain notified me to be ready
by the time he was. I ran into our part of the house, and, I tell
vou, it was but a short job for me to wash, change my shirt, comb
my hair, and make my appearance in the front yard to await the
coming of the Captain and his regimentals. I did not venture to
go into Haacke's part of the house, but timidly peeped through a
crack in the door, to get a sight at the gorgeous trappings with
which, I had no doubt, he would be arraying himself. It is said
that great men never appear well at their toilet, and I must have
verified the observation, as I remember going back to mother tell-
ing her I guess Captain Haacke was not much of a captain after
all ; any how he did not dress up like one.
" In due time the Captain presented himself in readines-; for the
parade-ground. Let me try to describe his dress. On his head he
wore a hat of home-braided wheat straw, the braid was notched and
the crown round. There was a band around it of red calico, with
loose ends several inches in length floating in the breeze. His coat
was made of homespun blue jeans, cut long in the skirts, — so long,
indeed, I fancied that he was in danger of throwing himself, by
stepping on his own coat-tail. This coat was closely buttoned be-
fore with old-fashioned brass buttons, placed at intervals of perhaps
two inches apart. The collar was short, stiff and standing, the up-
per end resting under his broad hearty jaws, thus keeping his head
proudly erect. His pantaloons were of the same homespum mate-
rial, cut very wide in the legs^ and corresijondingly short. He wore
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 213
no socks, and I noticed that his pantaloons and ^stogas' did not
break joints by abont six inches. The 'stogas' aforesaid were his
crowning glory. They were built of cowhide, very wide in the
heels. Very broad in the toes, and of considerable length. They
were tied with buckskin whangs, while the huge counters were
sewed to the quarters with other whangs, perhaps from the same de-
funct deer. It had rained the day previous, and the shoes had be-
come covered to a considerable depth with clay ; they had then
been dried in the sun, until their deep wrinkles were hard as bone.
Mrs. Haacke had that morning undertaken the task of cleaning and
greasinp; them. I cannot sav that her efforts had been entirelv sue-
cessful, as particles of yellow clay were interspersed with unmelted
hog's lard, over their broad surface.
" The Captain held in his hand a formidable-looking sword, en-
cased in a leathern scabbard. I noticed hair on the hilt, and, as at
that time I was not so familiar with natural history as I have since
become, I could not tell whether it was human hair or hog bristles.
The discovery filled me with a due appreciation of the Captain's
ferocity; so much so, indeed, that I followed him with some misgiv-
ings, and at a respectful distance ; when he would look back over
his shoulder to see if 1 was keeping up, I would stop and tremble,
until his face was turned in a forward direction again.
" On our arrival at Holcomb's, we found the company waiting
for the Captain. He strode into the house with all the pomp and
circumstance of glorious warfare, and I could see that by his bear-
ing he was making an impression upon his subordinates that must
be conducive to good discipline. I ventured to peep into the cabin,
to get a glimpse of CJaptain Haacke's staff, and noticed that he was
the best dressed, and by no means the worst-looking of the ]iarty.
"The Captain now ordered Orderly-Sergeant Seth Hilton to mus-
ter the company and call the roll. This order was obeyed with due
formality, and so reported, when the Captain made his appearance
before his men. I noticed at the time that he had buckled on his
sword. His sword belt was a strip of raw calf-skin, perhaps two
inches in width, with the hair on, hair-side out. The buckle was of
iron, of the width of the strap, and had, I had no doul)t, been taken
off some cow-bell strap; to this belt the sword was attached by a
buckskin whang. The scabbard hung loose, and, to prevent its get-
ting tangled among his legs, he had grasped its lower third in his
left hand, while the right held the hilt. The Captain stood for one
moment in front of the company in dignified silence; looking up
and down the living line, he raised his voice to a tone of command
and shouted, ' Company, halt ! ' This order was obeyed. The next or-
der was given in a lower tone to the Orderly, and was : ' Seth, I
reckon the boys are a gittin' dry ; you come in with me an we'll see
what can be done.' The Captain now disappeared into the house,
followed by Hilton. They soon re-appeared, Hilton bearing in his
hands an old-fashioned wooden-handled ' piggin,' which held per-
214 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
haps a gallon and a half of Holcomb's whisky. Hilton was ordered
to commence at the head of the line and pass the ' piggin/ which
contained, in addition to the 'fluid courage/ three small gourds as
drinking cups. ' Officers, don't you drink out of the ' piggin, ' '
shouted Haacke. ' You come this way. I'll 'tend to you.' The
officers seemed to manifest no disposition toward insubordination,
but followed their commander to the rear of the corn-cril), when he
proceeded to unbutton his coat and draw from an inside pocket a
gourd that would hold perhaps a quart. This gourd was bottle-
shaped, with the end of the neck cut off smooth, and a corn-cob stop-
per. ' Here, boys, don't you see I've got a little something nice
for us officers? " Oh, my stomach ! ' said the Captain, as he handed
it around to the evident satisfaction of the heroic band who sur-
rounded him.
" After this performance had concluded, the serious work of drill
commenced, and I soon saw that Captain Haacke was quite pro-
ficient in tactics. At one time during the day the Captain's shoes
began to hurt his feet, and he ordered the company to ' Hold on, boys,
till I sret off these cussed shoes.'
''During the day Captain Saunders brought his company on the
ground from his house, several miles further down the Lewistown
road. He said they had run out of whisky at his house, and hear-
ing Holcomb had a barrel, had concluded it would be best 'just to
march the boys up, you see. Oh, my stomach ! ' "
A FEW FIEST THINGS.
First Election. — The first election held in Fulton county, which
embraced all of the northern part of the State at that time (1823),
was a very exciting one. It was a contest between North and South
Fulton. "OssianM. Ross and William Eads were candidates for
for the office of Sheriff. The latter lived at Ft. Clark ( now Peoria),
and represented Xorth Fulton. The only settlements within the
boundary of the county at that time were one near the present town
of Rushville, at Lewistown, Canton, Ft. Clark and Chicago. Lew-
istown was the county-seat and the largest town in the county, and
the only place where elections were held. The voters at that time
came from Ft. Clark down the Illinois river, a distance of fifty miles,
in canoes ; then up Spoon river ten miles ; then on foot through the
woods six miles to Lewistown, to deposit their ballots, bringing their
whisky with them, without which it was thought impossible to trav-
el or properly exercise the rights of American citizens. Many of
those from the south part of the county came a distance of thirty
miles.
At this election there were thirty-five votes cast. There were on-
ly thirty-three legitimate voters who visited the polls ; but Eads, as
he came down the Illinois with his sixteen voters from Xorth Ful-
ton, met two bachelors at "Town Site" (now Pekin, Tazewell
county, then in Sangamon county) and " colonized " them, thus giv-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 215
ing him a majority over Ross. Every available man was mustered
by Ross, even the hermit, Dr. Davison, yet he lacked two votes in
order to beat Eads. The following year, however, Ross found no dif-
ficulty in being elected to this position over Mr. Eads.
First Officials. — The first County Commissioners were David W.
Barnes, Joseph Moffatt and Thomas R. Covell.
The first Sheriff was William Eads.
The first County and Circuit Clerk was Hugh R. Colter.
The first County Treasurer was Thomas L. Ross. John Eveland
was appointed first, but declined the office when Mr. Ross was ap-
pointed.
The first Surveyor was John N. Ross,
The first Coroner was William Clark.
The first Postmaster in the county was Ossian M. Ross.
The first Assessor was Thomas L. Ross.
First Foiirth-of-JuIy Celebration. — The first celebration of our
national independence in Fulton county was held in 18*23. The
celebration was held in Lewistown on the knoll north of the Metho-
dist Church edifice ; Ossian M. Ross was the orator of the occasion,
Captain David W. Barnes was marshal of the day ; John, Jacob and
Enos Jewell furnished the music. The two former played the
drums and the latter the fife. They did not have the stars and
stripes to display, but they nevertheless had a liberty pole. F(n-
this they secured a tall hickory tree, trimmed it and peeled the ba k,
and left it standing in its original place. For a flag to display
from its top a hat of Mr. Ross' was substituted. This was a showy
hat, being surmounted by two large plumes, and a cockade upon it.
Mr. Ross wore this hat when a Major under General Scott in the
war of 1812. It was placed upon the top of the pole by W^illiam
Ennis, and all joined in cheering the glorious Fourth and drinking
egg-nog. Logs were felled for seats and there were about thirty
men, women and children in attendance, many of whom were bare-
foot. The whites had their celebration during the day, and seem-
ingly ignored the Indians, who were not to be denied a glorious
time. In the evening the Pottawatomies to the number of a hun-
dred or more assembled at the same place and had a grand war
dance. Thus closed the first Fourth-of-July celebration of Ful-
ton county.
First Grain JRaised. — The first wheat raised in Fulton county was
in 1823, by O. M. Ross. It had to be cut with a sickle or reaping-
hook, and threshed with a flail, winnowed with a sheet, ground in a
horse-mill, and bolted with a hand bolt. Mr. Ross also raised the
first ten acres of corn. The truck wagon was the principal one used
in the first settlement of the countv. Thev have been known to do
good service on a farm for several years, and there was not a pound
of iron or a nail used in their construction.
First School. — Hugh R. Colter taught the first school ever taught
in Fulton countv. The school-house, which stood about where the
216 HISTOEY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Circuit and County Clerks' offices now stand, was built of round
logs, provided with a mud chimney, and puncheons for floor, seats
and. writing-desks, and oil-paper for Avindow glass. Those who are
livino; that attended this school are Mrs. Steel, of Canton, for-
O 7 7
merly Miss Ross, ]\Irs. Howard (Putman) Martin, Hon. Lewis "SV.
Ross, Harvey L. Ross and Henry Andrews.
First Steam-hont. — The first steam-boat to run up the Illinois
river was the "Liberty." Harvey L. Ross was a passenger on
board. It was commanded by Captain Samuel Bailey, one of the
proprietors of Pekin, and a co-commander with Gen. Stillman of
this county during the Black Hawk war. This boat was advertised
to run " from St. Louis to Peoria, touching all intermediate ports."
It landed at Havana, then nothing but a ferry crossing, and at Pe-
kin, which at that time was known, from its fine location, as " Town
Site." A steam-boat was a novelty, and even a mystery, to many
of the early settlers. Coming up the river the boat passed Kings-
ton in the night. Hugh Barr, who lived near that point, heard it
coming, and being on rather unfriendly terms with the Indians, then
quite numerous in the vicinity, concluded that it was some infernal
contrivance of theirs to frighten or harm him. Seizing his gun and
setting his equally bewildered dog at it, he pursued the offi-nding
mystery. The pilot, not being familiar with the channel, ran into
Clifton's lake, and finding no outlet, he had to back the boat out.
Barr, witnessing this, drew oif his dog, and, though still hugely
puzzled to know what manner of craft it was, gave up pursuit.
William Haines, who lived at Pekin, hearing the puif of the escap-
ing steam, hastily left his bed, and, half dressed, crossed the street to
Thomas Snell's, now the Bemis House, called neighbor Snell out of
bed, and inquired as to what manner of creature was coming up the
river. Snell replied : '' I don't know. Bill ; but if I was on the
Ohio river I would think it was a steam-coat." Old Jacob Tharp,
hearing the noise of the paddles and the steam whistle, thought it
was Gabriel blowing his horn ; that sure enough the end of the
world had come in the night ; and calling up his family, engaged in
prayer as a fitting preparation for the advent of a higher and better
life.
The First Turning-Lathe. — The first turning-lathe in Canton and
perhaps in the county was owned and operated by Deacon Xathan
Jones. It was a S])ring-pole lathe, with the cord wound around the
stick to be turned, in such a manner t»hat the stick ran half the time
one way and half the time the other. Upon this lathe the deacon
turned his chair-stuif. This lathe was a part of the outfit of the
first chair-maker's shop in Canton. It is related of the deacon,
while engaged in this shop, that on one occasion he had carried a lot
of chair-stufi' into the kitchen to season by the kitchen fire. The
deacon had neglected to provide Aunt Matilda — his wife — with
wood, and this neglect had so excited the old lady's ire that she
siezed and burnt an armfiil of chair-runsrs. The deacon stood and
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 217
contemplated the destruction of his chair-rungs in solemn silence
for some moments. As the flames began to curl around them, the
deacon's lips })arted, and his hand Avas raised, not in anger, but in
sadness. He tipped his hat to one side with the uplifted hand, and
exclaimed, " Matilda, I wish you were in heaven !" And this, it is
recorded, was the most nearly an oath the good old man had ever
allowed to escape his lips.
First Mills. — Ossian M. Ross built the first horse-mill, Jacob
Ellis built the first water-mill. Who erected the first steam-mill
we are -not able to say. There was one erected at Canton at a verv
earlv dav, and one at Vermont. John H. Gardner, of Joshua town-
ship, also put up one among the first of the county.
First Distiller u. — As eariv as 1833 Rafe Dixon, Ensley Touts
and George Smith owned and operated a small distillery on Duck
creek. This was a small, old-fashioned cop]>er still, and made pure
if not palatable whisky from corn. It is related of some of the
pioneers that they would, when in need of their accustomed bever-
age, shell a bushel of corn, put it on a horse, mount on top, and
ride to Gabriel Walling's little band-mill on Copperas Creek, get
their grist ^'cracked," then ride over with it to the Duck-creek Dis-
tillery and wait until it could be turned into "sperrits." They were
some times plagued very much while at the distillery by a fellow of
the name of Garron, who, it was asserted, would drink the whisky
as fast as it ran from the still.
First Sale of Land. — The first conveyance of land contained with-
in the boundary of Fulton county ever made was that of section 8,
Kerton township. On this 6th day of May, 1817, John DoMott
transferred this section of land to Richard Berriam. The first on
record was the northeast quarter of section 30, C^ass township, which
was transferred May 20, 1818. Both these deeds are recorded at
Edwardsville.
First Two Children Born. — The first white child born in the county
was Lucinda C. Ross, relict of the late Judge Williani Kellogg, and
a resident of Peoria, 111. She was born at Lewistowu Oct. 17, 1821.
Abner C. Barnes, son of Capt. D. W. Barnes, was born in the fol-
lowing month, and was the first male child born. He is an attorney
at law and resides at Bushnell, 111. A son of John Eveland was
one of the first children l)orn on the Military Tract, if not the first.
His birth occurred while Mr. Eveland was residing in Calhoun
county.
First Cotton-Gin. — In an early day cotton was quite extensively
grown in this county. During the period when the pioneer women
manufactured all the clothing of the family from the raw material,
cotton and flax might be found growing on every farm. Jacob
Ellis erected a cotton-gin that proved a source of great help to the
settlers. They would come for many miles to this mill to have
their cotton ginned. Hon. L. W. Ross has a pair of quilts that
were made by his mother in 1825 or '2(j^ when they lived where
218 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Major Walker now does. The cotton and every other article that
entered into them was raised on their place in this county.
First Hotel. — The first hotel in the county, perhaps in the Mili-
tary Tract, was built at Lewistown in 1827, by John Jewell, and
kept for many years by Truman Phelps. It was then considered
the best hotel in the West. Such men as Abraham Lincoln, Ste-
phen A. Douglas, O. H. Browning, Cyrus Walker, Gen. E. D.
Baker, Wm. A. Richardson and other prominent men of early times
were often guests of this hotel.
Organization of Fulton Counfi/. — In the latter part of the year
1822 it was thought by "some of the enterprising settlers of this
section that a sufficient number of inhabitants were living here to
justify the organization of a county. An effort was at once made,
and on the 28th day of January, 1823, the organization was granted
by the Legislature and ai> election appointed to be held on the 14th
of April, for the election of county officials. The law required
that a county should contain 350 legal voters before an organization
could be effected, yet there were scarcely that number of individ-
uals within the boundaries of Fulton county, although it embraced
the entire northern part of the State. The same territory now con-
tains a greater portion of the wealth of the State and a population
of about two million souls. On the organization of Illinois Terri-
tory in 1809 it was subdivided into the counties of Randolph and
St. Clair. Fulton was included in the county of St. Clair. On the
admission of the State into the Union Avhat is now Fulton county
was a part of Madison. Afterwards, by an act of the Legislature
approved June 30, 1821, it was placed within the boundaries of
Pike, which is the oldest county in the Military Tract.
When Fulton county was organized, and for over two years
thereafter, it extended east and west from the Illinois to the Mis-
sissippi rivers, and from the base line near where Rushville, Schuy-
ler county, now stands, to the northern boundary of the State, in-
cluding the country where Rock Island, Galena, Peoria and Chicago
now are. It was indeed a large county, and embraced what is now
the wealthiest and most populous portion of the great West. The
great lead mines of Galena had not yet been discovered, and Chi-
cago was only a trading and military post. As will be seen in the
following chapter the officials of Fulton county- exercised full au-
thority, so far as the duties of their respective offices were concerned,
over all this vast region. In 1825 the Legislature created Peoria
county and attached to it for all county purposes all the country lying
north of it within this State on both sides of the Illinois river as far
east as the third principal meridian. The Commissioners' Court of
that county convened for the first time March 8, 1825. Thus was
Fulton county greatly diminished in size.
Soon the Military Tract began to settle up quite ra])idly, and a
year had scarcely passed before Knox county was cut off of Fulton.
This was done by an act approved Feb. 10, 1826. At that time,
JJLJ^I^
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. , 219
however, there was not a settler within the boundaries of that
county, and although laid off it was still attached to Fulton county
for all judicial purposes. In the early part of 1828 the pioneers ap-
peared in that county and it was rapidly settled. On the loth of
May, 1830, a meeting was held in Henderson township to inaugu-
rate steps for the organization of the county. A committee consist-
ing of Riggs Pennington, Philip Hash, Stephen Osborn and Dr.
Chas. Hansford was appointed to present a petition to the Hon.
Richard M. Young, Judge of the Fifth Judicial District, praying
for the organization of Knox county. These gentlemen shortly
afterwards came to Lewistown, where Judge Young was holding
Court, and laid their petition before him. The Judge, believing the
county contained 350 inhabitants, the number required by law, and
that a majority desired the organization, did, on the 10th day of
June, 1830, declare by virtue of the power invested in him, the
said county of Knox to be organized and entitled to the same rights
and privileges as other counties of the State. An election was held
July 3, and three Commissioners chosen. These gentlemen con-
vened in official capacity on the 7th and perfected the organization
of Knox county, which completely severed all the vast territory
outside of the present boundaries of Fulton that at one time
belonged to our grand old county. This reduced the county to its
present size, which in number of acres ranks fifth in the great
Prairie State.
By an act of the Legislature approved Jan. 28, 1823, as above
mentioned, Fulton county was given authority to organize. A
commission consisting of Hugh R. Colter, John Totten and Stephen
Chase was appointed to locate the county-seat. A full account of
their labors is given in the following chapter. An election was
held on the 14th day of April, 1823, for the selection of three Com-
missioners, a Sherifl' and a Coroner. The only voting place was at
Lewistown, and men came from so great a distance that it consumed
several days in making the trip. William Fads of Ft. Clark was
elected Sheriif over O. M. Ross, and Wm. Clark, Coroner. David
W. Barnes, Joseph Motfatt and Thomas R. Covell were chosen
County Commissioners. They convened for the first time on the
3d of June, same year. We refer our readers to the following
chapter for a full and detailed account of all the important labors of
this Court.
Trade. — The earliest commercial transactions carried on in this
county were but neighborhood exchanges, in great part. True, now
and then a farmer would load a flat-boat with beeswax, honey, tal-
low and peltries, with perhaps a few bushels of wheat or corn or a
few hundred clapboards, and float down the Illinois river to St.
Louis, where he would exchange his produce for substantials in the
way of groceries and a little ready money with which he would
return by some one of two or three steam-boats then running ; or if
the period of the trip was before the advent of steam-boats he would
;urn his load into cash and come home on foot.
220 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
After the advent of steam-boats a new system of commerce sprang
up. Every town would contain one or two merchants who would
buy corn, wheat and dressed hogs in the fell, store them in ware-
houses on the river at some of the "landings," and when the river
opened in the spring would ship his winter's accumulations to St.
Louis, Cincinnati or New Orleans for sale, and with the proceeds
visit New York and lay in six months' siip])ly of goods. So far as
the farmer was concerned in all these transactions money was an
unknown factor. Goods were always sold on twelve months' time
and payment made with the proceeds of the farmers' crops. When
the crops were sold and the merchant satisfied the surplus was paid
out in orders on the store to laboring men and to satisfy other
creditors. When a days' work was done by a working man his
emplover would say, "Well, what store do you want your order on?"
and the order was always cheerfully accepted.
Hogs were always sold ready dressed. The farmer, if forelianded,
would call in his neighbors some bright fall or winter morning to
help "kill hogs." Immense kettles filled with water had been
boiling since dawn. The sleds of the farmer covered with loose
plank formed a platform for dressing, and a cask or half hogshead,
with an old quilt thrown over the top, was prepared in wliich to
scald. From a crotch of some convenient tree a projecting pole
was riffffcd to hold the dead animals. When everything was
arranged the best shot of the neighborhood loaded his trusty rifle
and the work of killing commenced. To make a "hog squeal" in
shooting or "shoulder-stick," i. e., run the point of the knife used
into the shoulder instead of the cavity of the breast, was a disgrace.
As each hog fell the "sticker" mounted him and plunged a long,
well sharpened knife into his throat, and others caught him by the
legs and drew him to the scalding tub now hilled with hot water,
into which a shovel-full of good green-wood ashes had been thrown.
The cleaners now took the departed porcine, immersed him head
first into the scalding tub, drew him back and forward a time
or two, tried the hair, and if it would "slip" easily the animal
was turned and the other end underwent the same process. As
soon as taken from the water the scrapers with case-knives went to
work and soon had the animal denuded of hair, when two stout
fellows would take it up between them and a third man to manage
the "gambrel" (^which was a stout stick about two feet long, sharp-
ened at both ends to be inserted between the muscles of the hind legs
at or near the hock joint), the animal would be elevated to the pole
and the entrails removed by some skillful hand.
When the work of killing was completed and the hogs had time
to cool, such as were intended for domestic use were cut up, the
lard tried out by the women of the household and the surplus taken
to town to market. In those davs almost every merchant had, at
the rear end of his ])lace of business or at some convenient neigh-
boring building, a "pork-house," and would buy the pork of his ens-
HISTOEY OF FULTON COUNTY. 221
tomers and of such others as would sell to him, and "cut" it for
market. This gave employment to a large number of hands in
every village cuttiug pork — work which lasted all winter ; also to a
large number of teams hauling to the river, and coopers making
pork barrels.
Prices of p(.)rk then were not so high as at present. Thousands
of hogs dressed for market have been sold in this county at $l.l25
to $1.50 per hundred lbs.; sometimes they were sold by the dozen,
bringing from $12 to $18 per dozen, owing to size and quality.
When, as the county grew older and communication easier between
the seaboard and the great West, prices went up to $2 and $2.50 per
100 lbs., our farmers thought they would always be content to raise
pork at such a fine price.
There was one feature in this method of buying pork that made
any town in Fulton county a paradise for the poor man in winter.
"Spare-ribs," "tender-loins," "pigs'-heads" and "feet" were not con-
sidered of any value, and were given freely to all who asked. If a
barrel were taken to any pork-house and salt furnished, the barrel
would be tilled and salted down with tender-loins or spare-ribs for
nothing. So great in many cases was the quantity of spare-ribs,
etc., to be disposed of, that they would be hauled away in wagon
loads and dumped in the woods out of town.
In those days if wheat brought half a dollar per bushel the
farmer was satisfied. The writer once knew a farmer to sell five
hundred bushels of corn to a distillery, for which he received five
cents jier bushel, and took his pay in whisky at thirty-five cents
per gallon.
A good young milch-cow could be bought for from $5 to $10,
and that j)ayable in work. In those days one of the wealthiest
farmers in the county was notified that there was a letter in the
postofficQ to his address, and that the postage was twenty-five cents.
He went home immediately, killed a fat cow, took her to Canton
and peddled her meat in the hope that in the transaction he would
get his quarter in cash to "lift" his letter ; but when the cash pro-
ceeds were footed up he found he had but twenty cents, and had to
borrow the balance before he could set his letter.
Those might truly be called close times, yet the citizens of the
county were accommodating, and no case of actual suffering for the
necessaries of life was known to exist before each vied with the
other to relieve it.
Early MiUhir/. — One of the greatest difUculties encountered by
the early settlers was in having their milling done. By a liberal
application of enterprise and muscle they experienced but little
trouble in producing an abundance of the cereals, but having it
converted into breadstuff was a source of much hard labor. The
hand-mill introduced was a great improvement over the mortar
or tin grater, a description of which is given elsewhere in this vol-
ume. Then the band-mill was introduced. John Walters tells us
222 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
that he and his brother AVilliam used to strap their sacks of corn
upon their back in knapsack fashion and take their guns and go
eight or ten miles to mill. They often went to Jennings' band-mill.
These mills ground only corn, and in order to have wheat ground
the settlers would have to go to some distant water-mill. Pioneers
often were gone an entire week with a load of grain to one of these
mills. Mr. Jacob Silvernail relates that upon one occasion he
went to the Little Mackinaw mill on the east side of the Illinois
river, a distance of 25 miles. He took some 40 bushels of M'heat,
and was gone from home nine days before he got his grist and, as
Mr. Silvernail savs, "the ague at the same time." There are a
multitude of milling incidents that would be interesting to read,
but space in this chapter forbids the giving of others. These
suffice to illustrate the difficulties the early settlers encountered in
procuring breadstuff.
Wild Hogs. — Among the settlers who came to Fulton county
previous to 1835 were many who, accustomed to the advantages of
an older civilization, to churches, schools and society, became
speedily home-sick and dissatisfied. They would remain perhaps
one summer or at most two, then, selling whatever claim with its
improvements they had made, would return to the older States,
spreading reports of the hardships endured by the settlers here and
the disadvantages which thev had found, or imagined thev had
found, in the country. These weaklings were not an unmitigated
curse. The slight improvements they had made were sold to men
of sterner stuff, who were the sooner able to surround themselves
with the necessities of life, while their unfavoraV)le report deterred
other weaklings from coming. The men who stayed, who were
willing to endure privations, belonged to a different guild ; they
were heroes every one, — men to whom hardships were things to be
overcome and present privations things to be endured for the sake
of posteritv, and thev never shrank from this duty. It is to these
hardy pioneers who could endure, that we to-day owe the wonder-
ful improvement we have made and the development, almost
miraculous, that has brought our State in the past sixty years, from
a wilderness, to the front rank among the States of this great
nation.
When the earliest pioneer reached what is now Fulton county
game was his principal food until he had conquered a farm from
the forest or prairie, — rarely, then, from the latter. As the coun-
trv settled game grew scarce, and by 1850 he who would live by
his rille would have had but a precarious sulisistence had it not
been for "wild hogs." These animals, left by home-sick immi-
grants whom the chills or fever and ague had driven out, had
strayed into the woods, and began to multiply in a wild state. The
woods each fall were full of acorns, walnuts, hazelnuts, and these
hogs would grow fat and multiply at a wonderful rate in the bot-
toms and along the bluffs. The second and third immigration to
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 223
the county found these wild hogs an unfailing source of meat sup-
ply up to that period when they had in the townships contiguous to
the river become so numerous as to be an evil, breaking in herds
into the farmer's corn-fields or toling their domestic swine into
their retreats, where they too became in a season as wild as those in
the woods. In 1838 or '39, in Banner township, a meeting was
called of citizens of the township to take steps to get rid of wild
hogs. At this meeting, which was held in the spring, the people of
the township were notified to turn out en masse on a certain day and
engage in the work of catching, trimming and branding wild hogs,
which were to be turned loose, and the next winter were to be
hunted and killed by the people of the township, the meat to be
divided pro rata among the citizens of the toAvnship. This plan
was fully carried into effect, two or three days being spent in the
exciting work in the spring.
In the early part of the ensuing winter the settlers again turned
out, supplied at convenient points in the bottom with large kettles
and barrels for scalding, and while the hunters were engaged in
killing, others with horses dragged the carcasses to the scalding
platforms where they were dressed; and when all that could be
were killed and dressed a division was made, every farmer getting
more meat than enough for his winter's supply. Like energetic
measures were resorted to in other townships, so that in two or
three years the breed of wild hogs became extinct.
Many amusing anecdotes are related of adventures among the
wild hogs." Esquire W. H, Smith of Banner township relates
the following incident: "I had gone to help one of my neighbors
catch and mark some hogs that were running out in the bottom.
He knew where his hogs ran, and we had no difficulty in finding
them. Our dogs were called into requisition, and we had dogs then
trained to the business, and soon I had a shoat down and was
marking it when I heard a shout of warning, and looking up I saw
my companions making for the nearest trees while a herd of wild
iiogs, led by a powerful boar, was rushing through the grass and
was almost on me. It was no time for argument I saw, and like
my neighbors, I 'stayed not on the order of my going, but went at
once' to the most convenient sapling, up which I found my way
with a celerity that would have astonished those who know me now,
and I was not in a hurry to come down until the herd had left."
D. F. Emry, one of the early surveyors of this county, relates
that once while surveying in the bottom he had his compass stand-
ing in a path used by the wild hogs, and while adjusting his needle
observed a very large boar with tushes five or six inches long com-
ing do'svn the path toward him. "When the boar observed the
obstruction in his pathway," says he, "he began to come sideways,
champing his teeth and erecting his bristles in a way to convince
me that I had better give him right of way, which I proceeded to
do with commendable speed."
i(
224 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Instances of adventures with wild hogs might be indefinitely
multiplied, but space forbids. That these animals were dangerous
those who have seen the tusks — in many cases still preserved — six
and even in some instances eight inches long, will understand.
The Deep Snoiv. — The big snoAv of 1830 will be vividly remem-
bered by all the old settlers. The snow began falling on the night
of the 29th of December, and continued to fall for three days and
nights, until it reached an average depth of about four feet, but drift-
ing in places as high as from eighteen to twenty feet. Great suf-
fering was experienced in consequence. The settlers relied for their
daily food upon Indian corn which they were enabled to raise,
together with wild game, which was abundant at that time. Plenty
of the former was raised to supply the wants of all until the next
season's crop ; but when the snow fell very little had been gathered.
Game could not be had. The great depth of snow was a barrier to all
travel, and it may be well imagined the sufferings of the people were
very great indeed.
This was the heaviest snow that ever fell in Illinois within the
memory of the oldest settler of this part of the State. According
to the traditions of the Indians as related to the pioneers, a snow fell
from fifty to seventy-five years before the settlement by the whito
people, which swejjt away the numerous herds of buffalo and elk
that roamed over the vast prairies at that time. This tradition was
verified by the large number of bones of these animals found in
different localities on the prairies when first visited by the whites.
The deep snow is one of the landmarks of the pioneer. He reck-
ons, in giving dates of early occurrences, so many years before or so
many after the deep snow. He calculates the date of his coming,
his marriage and l)irth of liis children from it, and well might It
make a lasting impression upon their minds. Could we picture the
suffering of that winter ; the dark forebodings that crept into every
cabin, starvation staring the inmates in the face; the meagre meal
that for months was their only portion, we, too, would never forget
it. But human tongue or pen can never adequately picture the
trials endured by the pioneers who were here during that long and
eventful winter. For weeks the sun was not visible, and so intens(;
was the cold that not a particle of snow would melt upon the south
sides of the cabins. People were for weeks absolutely blockaded or
housed up, and remained so until starvation compelled them to go
forth in search of food.
So much extra work was to be done in the building of homes that
in the fall the pioneers did not gather in and crib their corn. They
let it remain in the field until winter came before gathering. The
big snow therefore found many of the settlers without any j)repara-
tion for a long siege. They would go out into the field, and where
they could see the top of a corn stalk sticking up through the snow
they would dig down until they came to the ear. To get wood they
would cut the trees at the top of the snow, and when spring came and
(^)^Oi??: ^€^de^ ^&-MJ^7^/^
(D£C£AS£D),
ISABEL
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HISTORY OF FULTON COTJXTY. 227
the snow had disappeared, they often found the stump long' enough
to cut into fence rails. The snow lay on the ground until about the
first o£ April ; and we have little doubt that many a weary one
during that long winter sighed for the comforts of the "old home;"
still, notwithstanding its great dreariness and the greater sufferings
of the people, none became disheartened, for we find them in the
s])ring of 1831 as determined as ever to carve out for themselves a
home in this truly beautiful country.
. During this winter, from Dec. 29, 1830, till Feb. 13, 1831, it
snowed nineteen times. After the snow had melted we are told that
the bones of deer were so numerous in some places that for one-
quarter of an acre one could step from bone to bone over the whole
surface, so many deer had perished there. The season following the
winter of the deep snow was a very late one, and frost came every
month in the year. The crops were jjoor, as may be well supposed,
and the corn did not ripen.
The longest winter ever experienced since this country was settled
by the whites was that of 1842-3. The cold Aveather set in No-
vember 4, and lasted until the following April.
Sudden Change. — The most extraordinary atmospheric phenome-
non occurring within the knowledge of the oldest settler took place
in January, 1836. The intensest suffering was caused to man and
beast by this sudden change. Quite a snow had fallen the day ])re-
vious to the change, and upon that day a slow, drizzling rain fell,
makiny, of the snow a " slush." The storm came from the north-
west, and the clouds, upon its approach, assumed a threatening and
extraordinary aspect, those higher being dark, and those below of a
white frosty appearance. As fast as the storm advanced it instanta-
neously changed the temperate atmosphere to that of frigid coldness.
Incidents are related in connection with this sudden change which
are indeed marvelous. During the sudden change John Walters
tells us that he was out hunting, and had just killed a large buck
deer. He heard a terrible roaring in the northwest, and upon look-
ing in that direction saw a black cloud. The cold came on so
suddenly and became so intense that he started for home on a run,
leaving his game. Before reaching his home he had frozen his feet
and ears very badly.
High Water. — We have spoken of the deep snow and the sudden
atmospheric change ; we now wish to record the seasons that the
greatest amount of water fell. It is claimed that the greatest rain-
fall that has ever occurred in this country was in 183". There waf>
no record kept of the amount of water that fell by any of the methods
in use at the present time, and all we have to judge by is the high
water in the streams. The Illinois, Spoon river and their tributaries
are said to have been higher than at the breaking up of the big snow
in the spring of 1831, or at any time since. The rains commenced
falling in the early springand continued throughout the early sum-
mer. There have been, perhaps, other seasons just as wet, but the
15
228 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
streams were never so high at any other time. During this period
there were many hard rains. In the early part of July a storm of
rain, thuuder and lightning occurred, which for severity has scarcely
ever been equaled. It spread throughout the West. The great
prairies, then uncultivated and undrained, were a vast lake, and fish
were plenty in almost every locality. The large ponds found here
and there over the prairies in an early day contained fish large
enough for domestic purposes. These ponds would dry up in the
summer but in spring-time were well filled with water, and how the
finny tribe managed to get there is a query the " old settler" cannot
answer in a more satisfactory way than " they rained down when
small." During this season but little in the way of crops was
attempted to be raised. Hogs were fattened in the fall upon the
mast, and those that were not killed for food had to subsist during
the winter upon acorns; with them it was literally "root hog or die."
The Severe Winter of 1842—3. — To add to the popular excitement
occasioned by Rev. Miller's prophecy of the end of the world, and
by the unprecedented comet of 1843, etc., one of the longest and
severest winters ever known in this region, happened to be that of
1842-3. Xov. 7, 1842, it commenced to rain; the 8th was cloudy;
and on the 9th 18 inches of snow fell, which did not go off alto-
gether until the 12th of the following April! Soon after the snow
fell a rain came upon it, and a crust froze so strong as to make it
almost impossible for a time to work or travel. A hunter, how-
ever, could walk on the ice-covered snow, and deer were more easily
caught than domestic swine are nowadays. When alarmed by the
proximity of the hunter they would attempt to run, but breaking
through where the snow was very deep, they would lodge there
almost helpless. Turkey and other wild game were abundant and
easily obtained. On account, however, of the abundance of game
and a sufficiency of grain, the people lived very comfortably.
The first plowing done was in 5lay, but a good crop was raised.
The years of 1844, 1851, and 1858, are also notable as years of
great rain-fall. During the early history of the county, when
there were no bridges, great difficulty was experienced in getting
from place to place in the spring-time on account of the high
waters. At such times ferrymen were allowed to charge double fare
for carrying people or goods across the streams. It is remarkable
that so few lives were lost during these seasons of high water, ])ut
the pioneers were all expert swimmers, and it was very seldom one
was drowned.
Moneu. — Monev''was an article little known and seldom seen
among the earlier settlers. Indeed, they had but little use for it,
as all business was transacted by bartering one article for another.
Great'ingenuity was developed in the barter of their commodities,
and when this failed longJ,credits contributed to their convenience.
But for taxes and postage neither the barter nor credit system would
answer, and often letters were suifered to remain a considerable time
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 229
in the po.stoffice for want of twenty-five cents, which was then tlie
postage on all letters from any great distance ; nor were they car-
ried on the fast express or mail trains. It was only every week or
so that a lone horseman, with mail bag thrown astride, would ride
into a settlement or village. If, however, the village was on the
line of a stage route, the old stage-coach would make its apj)earance
as often. It was not common, then, for persons to get many letters;
indeed, one or two a month was considered a large mail. Nor did
three cents pay the postage upon a letter at that day. It seldom
took less than twenty-five cents, or two "bits," as Kentuckians
would say.
To illustrate how very scarce money was in an early day we
record the following incidents : Mr. Joseph H. Gardiner, of Joshua
township, tells us that although he owned a farm of six hundred
acres, with stock, grain, etc., he could not raise cash sufficient to
pay postage on letters that came to him. They would often have
to lie in the postoflfice for weeks before he could get them out. At
one time in the early history of the country he had a legal dispute
and was sued, the party getting judgment for |oO or 160 against
him. He sent East for money and it came in a $100 bill. He
ofFered it in payment of judgment ; they could not change the bill,
nor could they find enough money in Canton to do it with ; conse-
quently the judgment was not paid for some time afterwards.
A member of one of the leading business firms iu Canton had
noticed that his partner had charged to himself fifty cents cash each
week. This. caused him so much uneasiness to know that cash was
being withdrawn from their business that he took his ])artner to task
about it. He admitted the fact, of course, and explained that it aatis
to pay postage on letters received from a young lady in the East,
perhaps his sweet-heart, which, though money was scarce, must be
attended to.
Coon-skins passed as currency in many places up to 1835, and
values were frequently expressed in coon-skins. Whisky was one
coon-skin per quart. Childs &■ Stillman, of Canton, were selling it
at that price, and their store was a place of resort in consequence.
The counter of this store was a rude affair, and the front of it not
closely jointed : indeed, there were interstices between the clap-
board panels through which a coon-skin could be readily pulled.
One day Jesse Dollar called for a quart of whisky, and in payment
handed over his coon-skin. The coon-skin was tossed" under the
counter, and the whisky drank among the crowd. Dollar had a
ramrod in his hands with a wiping-screw on the end. This he slyly
inserted through the cracks in the front of the counter, and, twist-
ing it into the fur, drew it out, and with it paid for the second quart,
which was also passed through the admiring crowd. Dollar was
liberal, generous, indeed prodigal, with his one coon-skin, making it
pay for five quarts of whisky in almost that number of minutes.
Childs & Stillman were pleased at their prosperous trade. The
crowd were pleased at the joke, and Dollar was glorious.
230 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
The Beautiful Prairies. — The large prairies of the eounty pre-
sented a most beautiful sight before they were settled. The follow-
ing very descriptive lines on "The Prairies of Illinois/' by Captain
Basil Hall, graphically portrays their beauty in their wild and
native state :
''The charm of prairie consists in its extension, its green, flowery
carpet, its undulating surface, and the skirt of forest whereby it is
surrounded ; the latter feature being of all others the most signifi-
cant and expressive, since it characterizes the land^icape, and defines
the form and boundary of the plain. If the prairie is little, its
greatest beauty consists in the vicinity of the encompassing edge of
forests, which may be compared to the shores of a lake, being inter-
sected with many deep, inward bends, as so many inlets, and at in-
tervals projecting very far, not unlike a promontory or protruding
arm of land. These projections sometimes so closely approach each
other that the traveler passing through between them, may be said
to walk in the midst of an alley overshadowed by the forest, before
he enters again upon another broad prairie. Where the plain is ex-
tensive, the delineations of the forest in the distant background a])-
pear as would a misty ocean beach afar off. The eye sometimes
surveys the green prairie without discovering on the illimitable
plain a tree or bush, or any other object save the wilderness of
flowers and grass, while on other occasions the view is enlivened bv
the groves dispersed like islands over the plain, or by a solitary
tree rising above the wilderness. The resemblance to the sea which
some of these prairies exhibit is really most striking. In the spring,
when the young grass has just clothed the soil with a soddy carpet
of the most delicate green, but especially when the sun is rising be-
hind a distant elevation of the ground and its rays are reflected by
myriads of dew-drops, a more pleasing and more eye-beneflting
view cannot be imagined.
"The delightful aspect of the prairie, its amenities, and the ab-
sence of that sombre awe insjiired by forests, contribute to forcing
away that sentiment of loneliness which usually steals upon the
mind of the solitary wanderer in the wilderness ; for, although he
espies no habitation, and sees no human being, and knows himself
to be far ofl' from every settlement of man, he can scarcely defend
himself from believing that he is traveling through a landscape
embellished bv human art. The flowers are so delicate and elegant
as apparently to be distributed for mere ornament over the plain ;
the groves and groups of trees seem to be dispersed over the prairie to
enliven the landscape, and we can scarcely get rid of the impression
invading our imagination, of the whole scene being flung out and
created for the satisfaction of the sentiment of beauty in refined
men.
"In the summer the prairie is covered with tall grass, which is
coarse in appearance, and soon assumes a yellow color, waving in
the wind like a ripe crop of corn. In the early stages of its growth
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 231
it resembles young wheat, and in this state furnishes such rich and
succulent food for cattle that the latter choose it often in preference
to wheat, it being no doubt a very congenial fodder to them, since
it is impossible to conceive of better butter than is made while the
grass is in this stage.
"In the early stages of its growth the grass is interspersed with
little flowers, — the violet, the strawberry-blossom, and others of
the most delicate structure. When the grass grows higher these
disappear, and taller flowers, displaying more lively colors, take
their place ; and still later a series of still higher but less delicately
formed floMers appears on the surface. AVhile the grass is green
these beautiful plains are adorned with every imaginable variety of
color. It is impossible to conceive of a greater diversity, or dis-
cover a predominating color, save the green, which forms a beauti-
ful dead color, relieving the splendor of the others. In the summer
the plants grow taller, and the colors more lively ; in the autumn
another generation of flowers arises which possesses less clearness
and variety of color and less fragrancy. In the winter the prairie
presents a melancholy aspect. Often the fire, which the hunters
annually send over the prairies in order to dislodge the game, will
destroy the entire vegetation, giving to the soil a uniform black ap-
pearance, like that of a vast plain of charcoal ; then the wind
sweeping over the prairie will find nothing which it might put in
motion, no leaves which it might disperse, no haulms which it
mlirht shake. No sooner does the snow commence to fall than the
animals, unless already frightened away by the fire, retire into the
forests, when the most dreary, oppressive solitude will reign on the
burnt prairies, which often occupy many square miles of territory."
Prairie Fires. — Fires would visit the grassy plains every autumn.
The settlers who had pushed out from the timber took great precau-
tion to prevent their crops, houses and barns from being destroyed,
yet not always did they succeed. Many incidents are related of
prairie fires. The great conflagrations were caused either accident-
ally, or designedly from wantonness, or with a view of bewildering the
game. The fire often spread further than it was intended it should.
Wherever were extensive prairie lands, one-half was burned in the
spring and the other half in the autumn, in order to produce a more
rapid growth of the naturally exuberant grass, destroying at the
same time the tall and thick weed stalks. Violent winds would
often arise and drive the flames with such rapidity that riders on
the fleetest steeds could scarcely escape. On the ajiproach of a
prairie fire the farmer would immediately set about "burning back,"
— that is, burning ofi: the grass close by the fences, that the larger
fire upon arriving would become extinguished for want of aliment.
In order to be able, however, to make proper use of this measure of
safety, it was very essential that every farmer should encompass
with a ditch those of his fences adjoining the prairie. When known
that the conflagration could cause no danger, the settler, though
232 HISTOllY OF FULTON COUNTY,
accustomed to them, could not refrain from gazing with admiration
upon the magnificent .>;pectacle. Language cannot convey, words
cannot express, the faintest idea of the splendor and grandeur of
such a conflagration during the night. It was as if the pale queen
of night, disdaining to take her accustomed place in the heavens,
had dispatched myriads upon myriads of messengers to light their
torches at the altar of the setting sun until all had flashed into one
long and continuous blaze.
The following graphic description of prairie fires was written by
a traveler through this region in 1849 :-
''Soon the flres began to kindle wider and rise higher from the
long grass; the gentle breeze increased to stronger currents, and
soon limned the small, flickering blaze into fierce torrent flames,
which curled up and leaped along in resistless splendor ; and like
quickly raising the dark curtain from the luminous stage, the scenes
before me were suddenly changed, as if by the magician's wand, into
one boundless amphitheater, blazing from earth to heaven and
sweeping the horizon round, — columns of lurid flames sportively
mounting up to the zenith, and dark clouds of crimson smoke curl-
ing away and aloft till they nearly obscured stars and moon, while
the rushing, crashing sounds, like roaring cataract? mingled with
distant thunders, were almost deafening ; danger, death, glared all
around; it screamed for victims; yet, notwithstanding the immi-
nent peril of prairie fires, one is loth, irresolute, almost unable to
withdraw or seek refuge."
Incidents of Pioneer Life. — The amusements of the pioneers were
peculiar to themselves. Saturday afternoon was a holiday in which
no man was expected to work. A load of produce might be taken
to "town" for sale or traffic without violence to custom, but no
more serious labor could be tolerated. When on Saturday afternoon
the town was reached, "fun commenced." Had two neighbors bus-
iness to transact, here it was done. Horses were "swapped." Diffi-
culties settled and free fights indulged in. Blue and red ribbons
were not worn in those days, and whisky was free as water ; twelve
and a one half cents would buy a quart, and thirty five or forty
cents a gallon, and at such prices enormous quantities were con-
sumed. Go to any town in the county and ask the first pioneer you
meet, he will tell you of notable Saturday-afternoon fights, either of
which to-day would fill a column of the Police ^^eics, with elaborate
engravings to match.
Rough, ready to fight, as these pioneers were, their latch-string
was always out. Xo stranger ever stopped at their cabins without
receiving a heartv welcome. Mrs. Commodore Joshua Barnev,
whose husband was famous in the war of 1812, and who was a
daughter of Elbridge Gerry, one of the signers of the Declaration of
Independence, in her old age told a chapter of her experience in
Fulton county in 1829 that graphically illustrates pioneer life.
She had gone with her husband from Washington City overland to
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 238
the Mississippi river, and crossing the Illinois at Ft. Clark (now
Peoria), the party stopped late at night at a log cabin near Utica.
The hail, "Hallo ! the honse," was given, and in answer to the
inquiry, "Can we get to stay all night with you ?" they were told,
"Certainly ; come in ; there is always room in this country." "On
entering the cabin" says Mrs. Barney, "we found a room twelve
feet by sixteen in which there was a fire-place, table, bench or two,
a couple of rude chairs and three beds ; but worse than all, when our
party got in, there were nineteen persons to stay all night ! Supper
was almost ready when we arrived. It consisted of the usual corn
bread, fat bacon, honey and in this case genuine store coifee. When
bed-time came the men were ordered to step out of doors, and
beds were spread, consisting of blankets and buffalo robes, over the
whole floor, and we women — there were ten of us — told to go to
bed, married women in the center. The men were now called in
and each husband lay down by his wife, the single men outside.
We were so thick, occupying the entire unappropriated space of the
floor, that when we desired to turn over the word of command
would be given, 'Spoon,' and we would all turn over at once."
Mrs. Barney said this was an actual occurrence, and that similar
cases occurred 3-t other points during her trip.
The settler in the early days was not only hospitable but also
philanthropic, and never neglected an opportunity to aid a neigh-
bor. House-raisings were hiw special delight. Let a new-comer
arrive in the neighborhood and all were ready to help him.
One would send a bushel or two of potatoes, another a piece of
meat, another some other article that could be used to eke out the
larder ; but when the new-comer had his logs cut and all ready for
the raising, then the fun commenced. Teams, men, axes, all were
on the ground at an early hour, logs were hauled, scored, one side
hewed, it may be, and before night willing hands had erected a resi-
dence as comfortable and commodious as anv in the settlement, and
at night was ready for the "house-warming," where dancing was
kept up until the "wee short hours," and where all enjoyed them-
selves in a manner unknown to the people of to-day. Let a neigh-
bor get sick in the fall, as frequently occurred, and some neighbor
would inaugurate a "chopping bee" or corn-gathering for his bene-
fit, when all his fall work would be done in a day, — corn gathered
and cribbed, wood chopped and hauled, and everything put in good
shape for winter. After the day's labors were completed, song and
dance were in order, and until morning perhaps the younger mem-
bers of the community would keep up their hilarity.
The only amusements of the pioneers had a hospitable, kindly
core and were connected with some helpful act for needy neighbors.
It was not only in amusements, but in all other acts of life that this
kindliness was manifested, as an anecdote which living witnesses
can testify to will illustrate.
Some time prior to 1833 a traveling preacher of the M. E.
234 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Churcli sent an appointment into a neighborhood in what is now
Isabel township, to preach. The honse wliere services were to be
hekl did not belong to a Church member, but no matter for that.
Boards were raked up from all quarters with which to improvise.
seats, oue of the neighbors volunteering for this work, while the
man of the house, trusty rifle on shoulder, sallied forth in quest of
meat, — for this was truly a "ground-hog" case, the preacher coming
and no meat in the house. The preacher had to come from the
"Sangamon Settlements," and the few neighbors had assembled on
his arrival. In the mean time the host of the occasion killed a deer
and sent a boy on horseback with directions on what "point" to find
it. After services, which had been listened to with fixed attention
by the pioneers, "mine host" said to his wife, "Old woman, I reckon
this 'ere preacher is pretty hungry, and you must git him a bite to
eat." "What shall I get him?" asked the wife, who had not seen
the deer; "thar's nuthin' in the house to eat." "Why, look thar,"
said the old gentleman ; "thar's a deer, and thar's plenty of corn in
the field ; you get some corn and grate it while I skin the deer, and
we'll soon have a good supper for him." It is needless to add that
venison and corn bread made a supper fit for any jiioneer preacher,
and was thankfully eaten.
Sometimes the amusements of the pioneers were rough, almost to
the point of fatal results, — sometimes, as in the case we are about
to narrate, more witty than rough. In the early days of Canton a
church buildiup: belonoiny: to the Presbvterian denomination stood
in the public square. This church had a steeple and bell, probably
at that period the only one in the county. The belfry of this church
always stood open, and one night a party of wild fellows conceived
the idea of a huge practical joke to be played upon the citizens by
means of this bell. Several balls of twine were procured, and after
everybody had got to sleep an adventurous spirit mounted to the
bell and tied one end of the twine around the clapper of the bell,
throwing the ball of twine out at the window. The knot around
the clapper was so arranged that by pulling on an extra cord the
twine could be loosened and made to disappear. When one o'clock,
"the hour when grave-yards yawn," approached, this cord was taken
to a second-story window opposite, where, out of sight above any
night passer, it was pulled, setting the bell to tolling solemnly and
sloNvly. It tolled for an hour, when those who had awakened at its
first stroke with a yawn began to wonder what it all meant, and one by
one windows here and there were opened and heads peered out into the
darkness. Soon curiosity began to get the better of sleepiness, and
here and there a man might be seen going towards the church to see
what the bell was tolling for. On reaching the church the bell cord
was found hanging as usual with no mortal ringer pulling it; still
the bell tolled on, ding — dong — ding ! Others came, from every
cabin in the town a representative, still the l)ell tolled on with no
visible mortal sexton swinging its iron tongue. "What is the mys-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 235
tery?" eager tongues asked of eager ears; ''what does it mean?"
Some one suggested that some straggler had elind)ed up into the
belfry and was doing the ringing, and one or two adventurous
spirits climbed to the belfry to learn if such was the case, only to
report that no mortal hand was tolling the bell ; and now the mys-
tery deepened. Men with solemn faces spoke to men whose coun-
tenances marked deep concern, and declared that the end of the
world must certainly be approaching. Some suggested that it was
Satan, others his heavenly opponent, Michael, who was tolling the
knell of a world about to depart; still the bell tolled on. At last
James Wright, for a "spiritual" consideration, volunteered to solve
the mystery. ' Of course the parties pulling the bell had confreres
in the crowd, and, when Wright mounted into the steeple, gave the
signal, and the cord was disengaged ; the bell stopped tolling; but
the mystery was not solved. The mysterious bell furnished food
for talk and texts for wise homilies for weeks, until at last the joke
got too heavy to hold, and the parties dropped it, to the infinite relief
of many a superstitious soul.
What the Pioneers Have Done. — Fulton county is a grand countv,
in many respects second to none in the State, and in almost every-
thing that goes to make a live, prosperous community, not far behind
the best. Beneath our fertile soil is coal enough to supply the State
for generations; our harvests are bountiful; we have a medium cli-
mate and many other things that make us a contented, prosperous
and happy people ; but we owe much to those who opened up these
avenues that have led to our present condition and happy surround-
ings. Unremitting toil and labor have driven off the sickly mias-
mas that brooded over swampy prairies'. Energy and perseverance
have peopled every section of our wild lands, and changed them
from wastes and deserts to gardens of beauty and profit. When
but a few years ago the barking wolves made the night hideous with
their wild shrieks and howls, now is heard only the lowing and
bleating of domestic animals. Only a half century ago the wild
whoop of the Indian rent the air where now are heard the engine and
rumbling trains of cars, bearing away to markets the products of
our labor and soil. Then the savage built his rude huts on the spot
where now rise the dwellings and school-houses and church spires
of civilized life. How great the transformation ! This change has
l>een brought about by the incessant toil and aggregated labor of
thousands of tired hands and anxious hearts, and the noble aspira-
tions of such men and women as make any country great. What
will another half century accomplish ? There are few, very few,
of these old pioneers yet lingering on the shores of time as connect-
ing links of the past with the present. What must their thoughts
be as with their dim eyes they view the scenes that surround them?
We often hear people talk about the old- fogy ideas and fogy ways,
and want of enterprise on the part of the old men Mdio have gone
through the experiences of pioneer life. Sometimes, perhaps, such
236 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
remarks are just, but, considering the experiences, education and
entire life of such men, such remarks are better unsaid. They have
had their trials, misfortunes, hardships and adventures, and shall we
now, as they are passing far down the western declivity of life, and
many of them gone, point to them the finger of derision and laugh
and sneer at the simplicity of their ways? Let us rather cheer
them up, revere and respect them, for beneath those rough exteriors
beat hearts as noble as ever throbbed in the human breast. These
veterans have been compelled to live for weeks upon hominy and,
if bread at all, it was bread made from corn ground in hand-mills,
or pounded up with mortars. Their children have been destitute of
shoes during the winter; their families had no clothing except what
was carded, spun, wove and made into garments by their own hands ;
schools they had none ; churches they had none ; afflicted with
sickness incident to all new countries, sometimes the entire family at
once; luxuries of life they had none; the auxiliaries, improvements,
inventions and labor-saving machinery of to-day they had not; and
what they possessed they obtained by the hardest of labor and indi-
vidual exertions, yet they bore these hardships and privations with-
out murmuring, hoping for better times to come, and often, too,
with but little prospects of realization.
As before mentioned, the changes written on every hand are most
wonderful. It has been but three-score years since the white man
began to exercise dominion over this region, erst the home of the
red men, yet the visitor of to-day, ignorant of the past of the coun-
ty, could scarcely be made to realize that within tliese years there
has grown up a population of 50,000 people, who in all the accom-
plishments of life are as far advanced as are inhabitants of the coun-
ties of older States. Schools, churches, colleges, palatial dwellings,
beautiful grounds, large, well cultivated and productive farms, as
well as cities, towns and busy manufactories, have grown up, and
occupy the hunting grounds and camping places of the Indians, and
in every direction there are evidences of wealth, comfort and lux-
ury. There is but little left of the old landmarks. Advanced
civilization and the progressive demands of revolving years have
obliterated all traces of Indian occupancy, until they are only
remembered in name.
In closing this chapter we again would impress upon the minds
of our readers the fact that they owe a debt of gratitude to those
who pioneered Fulton county, which can be but partially repaid.
Never grow unmindful of the peril and adventure, fortitude, self-
sacrifice and heroic devotion so prominently displayed in their lives.
As time sweeps on its ceaseless flight, may the cherished memories
of them lose none of their greenness, but may the future genera-
tions alike cherish and perpetuate them with a just dev^otion to
gratitude.
CHAPTER III.
IMPORTANT LABORS OF THE COUNTY COMMISSIONERS' COURT.
First Meeting. — The lirst meeting of the County Commissioners'
Court of Fulton county was held at "the office of H. R. Colter in the
town of Lewistown," on the 3d day of June, 1823. The records
hold forth the "office of H. Ti. Colter" very prominently, yet we
surmise this "office" of which the records speak so often was simply
a portion of his cabin home. David W. Barnes, Thomas R. Co veil
and Joseph Moffatt, County Commissioners, were all present. The
first business transacted by the Court was the appointment of Hugh
R. Colter as Clerk. The records open with the simple statement
that "the Court held a special term June 3, 1823." They give us no
information whatever concerning its organization, or its previous
history, or of the organization of the county, but, like the Holy
Scriptures, begins with unqualified statements and records its acts
with the greatest simplicity. We were, however, fortunate enough
to find in another old book some memorandums of the prior history
of this Court, and of the official transactions of the county previous
to the first meeting of the Commissioners' Court. These items,
which are noted on the first four pages of the first Circuit Court
records, are headed "Fulton County Clerk's Records." These
were kept by Hugh R. Colter, and were written previous to his ap-
pointment as Clerk by the Commissioners, and even prior to his
being qualified as Justice of the Peace. The most satisfactory
solution we can give why he should thus head the records and by
what authority he swore men into office and transacted other official
business, was, that he was appointed by the Legislature (act of Jan.
18th, 1823, for the organization of Fulton county), as a Clerk to
transact such business as was necessary to carry out the provisions
of the act and complete the organization of the county. Whether
this was really the case or not we cannot positively state, as we
have been unable to procure a copy of the act. The record of these
four pages embrace the following items :
On Feb. 11, 1823, nearly four months prior to the date of Colter
being appointed Clerk of the Commissioners' Court, this certificate
was recorded : "This day Ossian M. Ross personally appeared be-
fore me and took the several oaths prescribed by law to authorize
him to act as Justice of the Peace in and for the county of Fulton,
State of Illinois, and on the back of his commission I wrote and
238 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
subscribed the usual certificate." Then follows a similar record of a
certificate of John N. Ross to act as County purveyor.
On March 17 Mr. Colter recorded in this same place that he had
advertised an election authorized by law for county officials, to be
held at the house of Ossian M. Ross on the ]4th day of April en-
suing. On that day he noted the following words : "This day I
attended the election for county officers and qualified the judges
who conducted the election ;" and on the same date, which was
April 14, these : "Received in this office the returns of the above
election, and after examining said returns I gave certificates to the
following persons, to-wit : David W. Barnes, Thomas R. Covell and
Joseph Moffiitt ; Coroner, William Clark ; for Sheriff, Abner Eads."
He then states that John Hamlin and Samuel Fulton appeared before
him and (puilified as Justices of the Peace.
On April 29 Thomas R. Covell came before him and (pialified to
act as Lieutenant in the 17th Regiment of the Illinois Militia. May
12, we find this: "Ossian M. Ross, Esq., deposited in this office the
following certificate for record, to-wit : Hugh R. Colter personally
appeared before me and took the several oaths prescribed by law to
authorize him to act as Justice of the Peace."
He next records that on May 17 he sent from his office an official
certificate to the Governor, relative to the situation of our county
officers, who were elected on the 14th of April at the house of ().
M. Ross.
On June 3 he wrote that "Joseph Moffiitt took the oaths pre-
scribed by law to authorize him to act as County Commissioner.
David W. Barnes and Thomas R. Covell qualified April 15."
July 4 William Eads qualified as Sherifi' and the following day
William Clark as Coroner.
The last item on these four pages of record is a certificate filed
July 9, from O. M. Ross, certifying that Hugh R. Colter appeared
before him and took the oath to act as Judge of Probate.
Thus we have all the items, or record of the official acts (save the
one we give below relative to locating the county-seat) prior to the
first meeting of the Commissioners' Court that the officiating pio-
neers have left us.
Appoinfmottft bi/ the Court. — After the Court had appointed a
Clerk, it recommended to the Governor that Amherst C. Ransom be
appointed Justice of the Peace, vice Samuel Fulton, resigned. The
next act was the appointment of John Eveland as Treasurer of the
county. Then Thomas Ij. Ross was appointed Assessor. Aquila
Moffiitt, John Grifiin, George Matthews, William Totten and Hor-
ace Enos were appointed Constables.
Road Precincts. — The county was then divided into road pre-
cincts, and William Eads appointed superintendent for district No,
1, which began at Ft. Clark (now Peoria) and ran northwesterly to
the Mississippi river. Stephen Chase was appointed su])erintendent
for district No, 2, which road ran from Ft. Clark through Lewis-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 239
town to the month of Spoon river. Amo.s Evekind was ap^jointed
for district No. 3, which "hegan at Spoon-river bhiifs and continn-
ing same to base line." This wonkl run it sonth to Beardstown.
"The Conrt was then declared adjourned, to meet at seven o'clock
on the 4th, by O. M. Ross, an elisor, [acting sheriif] who was
appointed for that purpose.
Counfy-fSeaf Loeafcd. — The Court met on the 4th and the follow-
ing papers were laid before the august judges: "A return made bv
the Commissioners who located the seat of justice ; and also a deed
made by O. M. Ross to the county of Fulton for 13 town lots in
the town of Lewistown for })ublic pur})Oses." Further on in these
records we find the report for the location of the county-seat re-
corded, which report we give in full:
"A Return of the ^ 'o//i»;(.s.s/ow;-s irlm Locafid the Sc<(t of Jiisfici' for Fulton Coinittj,
lUinoiii :
"Know all men by these presents, that we, the undersigned Commissioners,
having been appointed agreeably to an act of the Legislature, approved Jan-
uary 2<S, LS2.'], an act forming a new county out of the attached part of the
County of Pike, to be called Fulton, now know ye that, whereas we,
John Totten, Stephen Chase and Hugh R. Colter, were appointed by said act
Commissioners to locate the permanent seat of justice for said county, met at
the house of David W. Barnes in said county on the 11th day of February,
1S23, and being duly sworn before Ossian M. Ross, Esq., a Justice of the
Peace, Ave then proceeded to make inquiries and to hear proposals from inhab-
itants of said county; and after some time spent therein we adjourned till the
14th inst., at the house of 0. M. Ross, in said county. On the 14th we met,
and after taking into consideration the duties of our office we agreed to, ancl
do herel)y permanently locate the seat of justice of said county of Fulton on
lot No. 214, in the town of Lewistown, being on the southwest quarter of sec-
tion 22, township 5 north and range 3 east ; said town of Lewistown having
been platted and surveyed by Stephen Dewey, Esq., and on the lands belong-
ing to Ossian M. Ross, Esq., in said town aforesaid, and as a donation to said
county. The said Ross has this day made to the county of Fulton a good war-
rantee deed in fee simple for the following town lots for ])ublic buildings, etc.,
to-wit : Lot No. Ki for burying yard, and lots Nos. 213, 214 and 215 for a court-
house and jail, and lots Nos. 147, 148, 149, 180, 181 and 182 for a public square,
or at the disposal of the County Commissioners, for public or county purposes.
In testimony whereof we have hereunto set our hands and seals this 14th dav
of Februarv, 1823. .JOHN TOTTEN,
HUGH R. COLTER,
STEPHEN CHASE."
Tavern Licoi.scx. — The first "tavern" license was granted at this
term of the C'ourt. A tavern in those days was a combination of
an inn and a saloon. The proprietor, however, did not expect to
derive any great revenue from the hotel, but looked to his liquors
for an income. Manv of these "taverns" were the smallest of lot?
cabins. Here and there all over the country, sometimes miles from
any other cabin, they might be found. Some of them were indicated
to be such by signs nailed to a post, tree, or to the side of the cabin.
These were of the rudest make and design. Some simply had the
word "entertainment" scrawled upon them, while others, more
explicit, read " entertainment for man and beast." Some were still
more definite and said simply " whisky and oats." The storms of
240 HISTOEY OF FULTON COUXTY.
a half century, the advancement of civilization, the culture of the
age, have all combined to transform these rudest of signs, scribbled
by an uncultured pioneer upon hewn boards, into gilded and glitter-
ing letters artistically traced upon French-plate glass.
The name by which the place was known where liquor was vended
was shortly after this changed from "tavern" to ''grocery" or
" groggery," and subsequently assumed the appellation of "saloon;"
and finally, that coming into disrepute, many have adopted the more
modern title of "sample room," "hall," "garden," etc.
The Court ordered, "that Ossian M. Ross have license to keep an
inn or tavern in the house wherein he now resides, by paying the
sum of SlO, in ' State paper.'" The following schedule of "tavern
rates" were then established to govern him :
Yiituals, per meal, 25 cents
Horse keeping, per niwht, 375 "
Lodging, per night, 12.j u
"Whisky, per half pint, I25 n
Rum and gin, per half pint, 25
French brandy, per half pint, 50
Wine, per half pint, 37.V ..
And all other liquors in like proportion.
Joseph Ogee was granted similar license, with the same schedule
regulating him.
Ferry License. — (). ]\I. Ross was then given a license to keep a
ferry across the Illinoi> at the mouth of Spoon river, the present
site of Havana. He continued t<> run this ferry until his death,
which occurred in 1887, and after which his sons ran it for a number
of years. During the earlier years Mr. Ross would send a man
down to the river every few days to carry the travelers with their
saddles across the water in a canoe, swimming their horses beside it.
It was generally understood among the settlers on both sides what
days the ferryman would be there, and travelers always learned of the
time. This was considered a splendid way to cross the river and a
great accommodation to those who came to look at the country in
the Military Tract.
The following were the ferry rates established by the Court :
Man and horse 25 cents.
Each footman 122 "
Each wagon drawn by two hoi-ses or oxen 75 u
Each additional horse or ox 122
Each hog or sheep « 3 "
Each lead or drove horse, or other animal 12i a
Each cart drawn by two oxen 50 a
Each Dearborn wagon or sulky. 75 "
And all other property in the same proportion, and double when
the river is over its banks.
These rates seem high, but ferry patronage was limited, for we
certainly must know that the number of persons were few who
desired to cross the Illinois river at any one point fifty-six years ago.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 241
More Justices of the Peace. — The Court then recommended, as a fit
and suitable person for Justice of the Peace, Mr. Wm. Eads, of
Peoria, then known as Fort Clark. Further on in the records we
find the trio of Commissioners ordered that John Kinzie be recom-
mended to the Governor as a fit person for Justice of the Peace for
Fulton county. This jrentleman was the well known first settler of
Chicago, and at that time resided there, it then being in this county.
It must be remembered that Fult(Mi county at that time spread over
a vast territory, and embraced all of the northern part of the State.
Yes, though unlearned in law and unacquainted with science and
literature, the Commissioners held jurisdiction over a large district;
and that they conducted the public affairs rightly, and built a firm
and solid foundation upon which the future prosperity and greatness
of this portion of our beloved State should rest, can not ])e gainsaid.
This is plainly evident from the unparalleled strides made in agricul-
tural and mechanical progress; from the hundreds of thousands of
busy inhabitants now dwelling within this territory ; and from the
vast stores of wealth accumulated solely from resources within it.
Those great and unconcealed wonders reflect honor and credit each
day upon their founders; and as days and years multiply, when the
same territory over which they presided shall l)e teeming with mil-
lions of earnest and energetic people, then will great honors and
more exultant praise and adoration be expressed for the brave, sturdy
pioneers who explored and opened up a region so prolific, and founded
a community that for genius, enterprise and wealth will in the near
future out-rank many older settled countries, and indeed will vie
with many kingdoms of the earth. Then these vast prairies will be
cultivated as a garden. Every forest tree and woodland will be util-
ized, and populous cities with numerous factories and vast stores of
commerce may be numbered by the score. Then will the modes of
travel be superior to the remarkable railroad facilities of to-day, and
transport the increased products with greater facility. Indeed, every-
thing will then })e as different and as superior to what they are at
present as the things of to-day are as compared with those of fifty
years ago. Our readers may regard this as wild and unreasonable
speculation, as wholly visionary; but they are only the conclusions
deduced from a carefid study of history, of a comparison of what
has been accomplished, with certain advantages, with the results that
the superior advantages now enjoyed will as certainly accomplish.
Fin-t Court-House. — The Court then ordered "that a court-house
be built, with a jail under the same roof; said buildings to be built
of bricks, 26 by 34 feet, two stories high and well finished, or a
hewed-log building 24x30 feet, one and a half stories high, w^ith a
separate building for jail, 12x15 feet, built of hewed timber one
foot square and well finished off and secure in every part. "
It was then ordered that the Court meet July 3, at the office of
Hugh R. Colter, to let the above jobs. Before adjourning, how-
ever, a tax was ordered levied on personal property, household goods
excepted, and on all town lots at " one-half per cent."
242 HISTOEY OF FULTON COUNTY.
On July 3 Barnes and Covell met per agreement, but adjourned
without transacting any business, because MoflPat was not present.
They met again the following day, and again adjourned, "for good
causes, till the 5th at five o'clock in the mornino:." That was an
early hour for officials to assemble to transact ])ublic business.
Soon, however, the Commissioners did not meet till a later and a
more fashionable hour, one in keeping with the modern spirit of the
age. As the customs of civilization began to make themselves felt,
they adjourned to meet at nine o'clock. The honorable Commis-
sioners would fain indulge in a second morning nap and not don the
ermine till the " third hour of the day." And before this distin-
guished and time-honored official body was abolished ten o'clock
was the hour for opening Court.
On the 5th the Court assembled and by Abner Eads, Sheriff,
was declared opened. This is the first time Eads attended Court.
A petition was presented by O. M. Ross, a former supervisor of
roads, praying to have the privilege of returning the delinquents of
his district or of giving them over to the present supervisor in dis-
trict 3, " on the road leading from the village of Peoria to the
mouth of the Illinois river."
. In regard to the court-house and jail it was ordered that the fol-
loAving be a description of their size and the manner in which said
buildings are to be finished :
"The size of the court-house 26x30 feet, <me and a half stones
high, and built of hewn logs ; a shingle roof, the shingles three feet
long and well nailed on ; the u])])er floor, if puncheons, to be hewed
on both sides ; three windows below and two above, with twelve
lights of glass in each window ; window shutters to each window; a
brick chimney with two fire-places, one below and one above ; one
pair of stairs to go up on the inside of said building, to accommo-
date the upper room. The above building to be raised and the roof
on so that Court can be held in said house at the next term of the
Circuit Court, which will be on the second Monday of October
next ; and to be completed by the first day of January next. One-
half of the money to be paid to the contractor when the house is
raised and covered, and the l)alance when the house is completed.
" On motion it was ordered that the following is a description of
the style in which the jail is to be finished, to- wit : All of hewed
logs or timber one foot square, floors and sides ; one Avindow with
good iron grates ; the roof to be the same as that of the court-house ;
a arood jail-door, and evervthins; else to make it a strong, substan-
tial jail."
The records then (piaintly proceed in the following strain : " On
motion it was ordered that the above described buildings, agreeably
to previous agreement, are set up and sold to the lowest l)idder.
Agreeably to said order the jail was set up and offered to the public,
and was finally stricken off' to Ossian M. Ross, for the sum of 8276,
to be paid in State paper. The court-house was then ordered set up
;^^-
^'
^,^-*=o-<t ^***'*«,
%
OF THE
UNIVERSITY CF ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FI'I>TOX fOI'NTY. 245
to the public, whic^h was done, and it also stricken off to Ossian M.
Ross, for 1500."
Laying out Roads. — For many years the petitions for roads occu-
pied ;•< very large proportion of the Court's time and attention, and
consumed more space to record than all other proceedings. They
are similar in construction, and it would be useless, and worse, to
speak of them as often as they occur. At this meeting a petition
was presented from sundry citizens " for a road running from the
town of Lewistown through the village of Peoria in said county."
The present thriving city of Peoria was only a " village," Avhile Lew-
istown was able to wear the more exalted name of " town." View-
ers were ajjpointed, as Avas the custom, and the road viewed and
thought to be of "practical utility," and was then ordered by the
Court to be opened.
First Treasurer. — John Eveland, the gentleman who was ap-
pointed Treasurer at the first meeting of the Court, " neglected to
appear and take his engagements in Court as the law directs."
Thomas L. Ross was then appointed and qualified. Thus, John
Eveland lost the honor of being the first Treasurer of this grand
old county. AVhy it was that he did not qualify we know not. It
is true the labors were light, and the remuneration was proportion-
ately small; yet, probably his own business aifairs would not per-
mit him to assume the duties of an office so responsible.
First Grand Jury. — The Sheriff was then ordered to summon
persons to compose the grand jury "for the next term of the Cir-
cuit Court," which was to have been held at the court-house on the
second Monday of October, 1823 ; but from the Circuit Court records
it is evident that no Court was held until the following spring,
when another jury was summoned, which, although composed of
almost the same men, Ave give in its proper place. The following
persons were chosen at this time as grand jurors: A. C. Ransom,
Joseph Ogee, Elijah .Wentworth, Elijah Putnian, Benjamin Seaville,
Stephen Chase, John Totten, George Brown, John Eveland, Ros-
well B. Fenner, Thomas L. Ross, William T. Davison, Hazael Put-
man, Amos Eveland, George INIattheAvs, John Woolcott, Xorman
Seaville, Theodore Sergeant, David Gallintin, William Higo-ins,
Isaac Swan, Peter Wood, Charles Gardner and James I^veland.
First 3farriage. — The first record of a marriage in the county, or
the first license or certificate of which any record is made, is the fol-
lowing: "The second of July, 1823, H. R. Colter j(»ined together
Thomas L. Ross and Susan Xye in the bonds of matrimony, both
of lawful age, and by virtue of license from proper authority."
Who the "proper authority" was Ave are unable to say, as we have
on record no other e\'idence of this mari'iage than the aboA-e. The
first marriage license issued, as recorded, AAas not until about a year
after this.
Commissioners Paid for Locating County-^eat. — The Court met
Sept. ], 1823, and, among other transactions, allowed H. R. Colter
16
246 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
$4 for services performed in locating the seat of justice for the
county. Stephen Chase was then given a like amount. Whether
John Totten, the other member of the commission, ever received
any pay we do not know; and as no record is made of it, suppose he
did not.
Pay for Assessing the Taxes. — The Treasurer, Thomas L. Ross,
then also Assessor, was allowed the enormous amount of §16 for
"taking a list of the taxable property of this county." When we
consider the size of the county, which included all of the northern
part of this great State, we can realize to some extent the small
amount of property there was to assess and the value the honorable
Court put upon Assessor Ross' labors. But Mr. Ross did not do
all of the assessing, nor did §16 include total cost for assessing the
entire county. Xo ; for in the same act we find that the "Treasurer
was ordered to pay A. C. Ransom S4 for taking the taxable property
of Chicago, in said county, and collecting the same," so soon as he,
said Ransom, should ])ay the money thus collected over to the
County Treasurer. Thus we see there is a small amount more to
be added to the §16. The assessment of Chicago, which was then
in this county, was let out to another party. But the §4 it must be
remembered was Ransom's remuneration for both the assessment
and collection of the taxes of that place. Now, allowing Ransom as
much for collecting the taxes of Ciiicago as for assessing them, Ave
have §2 for the labors of each, which, added to the §16 allowed Mr.
Ross, would make §18, as the full and total amount for assessing
one-third of the great State of Illinois, and, too, only a little over a
half centurv atjo. This was the first assessment ever made of this
territory so far as we are al)le to discover. We were enabled to go
into further details in regard to this tax of Chicago, and figure
the value of the property of that city at that time. Ransom never re-
ceived his four dollars, nor did the county ever become the possessor
of the amount of taxes collected by him. Ransom was a defaulter.
He collected the money, consigned it to his own coffers, and went
about his business, leaving the honorable Court to vent their indig-
nation in passing orders for him to " hand the taxes over to the
Treasurer immediately." Thus we see that the very first man in
Chicago who ever handled public moneys defaulted, and many in
that o-reat citv have admired Ransom's course and " gone and done
likewise." Sept. 3, 1823, the Court peremptorily ordered Ransom
to hand over the money, but he did not comply. Nov. 30 of the
same year two citations were issued against Abner Eads and Am-
herst C. Ransom to ajjpear at the next term of the Court and account
for taxes collected in Chicago. The pioneers were generally veiy
strict in having officials gi^^e "good and sufiicient l)onds" for the
faithful perfi)rnian('e of their duties and to insure the safety of })ublic
funds, but it ap])ears that Ransom gave none. The Sherifi, how-
ever, was the collector of the county, and to Kim the Court looked
for Ransom's default to be made good. Accordingly at the next
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 2-17
term, liaiii^om not having pnt in an appearance, the full amount
of taxes collected at Chicago was charged up to Sheriff Eads. This
fell sorely upon the indignant Sheriff, and he appealed to the Court
to be released. The Commissioners were at first immovable, but
finally, at the June term, ]<S2o, he 'Svas given $11.42, being the
amount deducted from his account as taxes collected at Chicago."
The assessment was made at one-half of one per cent ; therefore, if
$11.42 was this proportion of the whole value of the projjerty of
Chicago, that would reach the large amount of $2,284.
First Petit .hir)/. — Let us return to the Se})tember meeting of
1823. The jail was completed and received, and Stephen Chase,
Deputy Sheriff', was ordered to have the key to said jail. A traverse
or petit jury was then selected for the Circuit Court which should
meet the second Monday in October : Joseph Moffatt, Samuel Daugh-
erty, John Griffin, Wm. Eads, Aquila Moffatt, James Fulton, Seth
Fulton, William Clark, David D. Harkness, James .P. Harkness,
Peter White, M. G. Fitch, Thomas Covell, D. W. Barnes, Wm.
Smith, John Pixley, Chas. Sergeant, Reuben Eveland, A. W. Wil-
liams, Reuben Fenuer, Ossian M. Ross, John L. Bogardus, Edward
Carney and Isaac Eveland.
Another Ferry. — John Griffin antl A(|uila Moffatt were granted a
license to run a '' ferry across the Illinois river from and opposite
the village of Peoria." The Commissioners persisted in having
Peoria a "village ! "
The Couniii Divided into JMilitia Frecinct't. — Among the pioneers
"training" or "muster day" was one which was looked forward to
with feelings of pleasure. We give a description of drill-day in
this volume, page 212. It was necessary to have a well organized
militia to repel ariy invasion of the Indians, which at that time
were numerous. The Commissioners' Court in its official capacity
took note of this, and accordingly they ordered "that the county of
Fulton and all the attached part thereof compose one battalion dis-
trict, and is hereby attached to the 17th regiment of Illinois militia."
The county was then divided into three company districts, and an
election for the first com])any district ordered to be held at the court-
house Saturday, September 1, 1823, fi)r choosing a major. John
W^oolcott, Stephen Chase and David Gallintin were a],)pointed
judges. An election was ordered at the house of Joseph (Jgee " in
the village of Peoria," <»n the last Saturday in September, for the
same purpose. Edward Carney, Wm. Eads and Peter Wood were
appointed judges. The third company district was ordered to hold
a meeting at the house of John Kinzie, in Chicago, on the same
day and for the purjiose of choosing a major and company officers.
John Kinzie, Alex. Woolcott and John Hamlin were appointed
judges.
Fine for SeUinfj Whisky. — In June, 1823, S. Daugherty was fined
by the Court for selling whisky to the Indians at Peoria,
248 HISTORY OF FrLTO>: COUXTY.
Firf<t Marriage in Chicago. — Vrdindon the records the following :
"September 4, 1823. Received in this office for record the foUoAV-
ing certificate, to-wit :
"I hereby certify that on the second day of July last I joined together in
the holy state of matrimony Alexander Woolcott and Eleanor Kinzie, both of
lawful age.
"FuLTOx rorxTY, Aug. 22, 1823. . "JOHN HAMLIN, J. P."
These parties lived in Chicago and were the first couple ever
married in that city, so far as we have any evidence. Woolcott Mas
quite a prominent man in the early history of that city, and for
many years what is now Xorth State street bore his name. Eleanor
Kinzie, the bride, was the daughter of the famous Indian trader
and first permanent settler of C'hicago. We give a cut of his
dwelling in this work. John Hamlin was Justice of the Peace and
lived at Peoria. It may be possible that he lived at Chicago at this
time, but we find him the followinor vear as a Peoria merchant.
Thus we have the simple and only official record of the first mar-
riage solemnized in the oreat citv of Chicago.
Colter, Circuit acr/;.— November 30, 1823, H. R. Colter was
given §40 as full compensation up to that date for services a.s
"Deputy Clerk of the Circuit Court ten months and Clerk of the
County Commissioners' Court for six months." Who it was that
was Circuit Clerk we knou" not, but suppose there was none, as no
mention is made of any, and all the writing in the early records
was done by Colter. It is most likely that he was both Clerk and
Deputy, as he held almost every official position. Again, we are at
a loss to know where he served his ten months as "Deputy Clerk
of the Circuit Court," unless it was at recording deeds, for up to
the following spring no session of the Circuit Court had been held.
O. M. Ross, Treasurer, — Robert Grant was ap])ointcd Treasurer
in December, 1823, in the absence of Thomas L. Ross, the Treas-
urer. He, however, came into Court Feb. 3, 1824, and "requested
to have the privilege of resigning." This privilege was granted, and
(). M. Ross appointed in his stead March 2, 1824.
Xew Commis>ii<)ners and a Xew Cleric. — In August, 1824, an elec-
tion was held, when James Barnes, David W. Barnes and James
Gardner were chosen County Commissioners. They were evidently
elected on the "reform ticket," for np sooner had they received the
reins of government into their hands than they issued an order de-
capitating Clerk Colter. The order reads as follows: "Ordered,
that Hugh R. Colter be dismissed and discharged from holding the
office of Clerk of this Court, for charo-ino- and taking; unlawful fees
when acting as Clerk of said county." Stephen Dewey was imme-
diately appointed to fill his place. It appears that Colter would not
willingly give uj) the records at the pleasure of the Court, so the
honorable body " ordered, that a writ issue from this Court, directed,
to the Sheriff, requesting him to demand the records of this Court
from Hugh R. Colter, late Clerk."
HISTORY OP FULTON COUNTY, 249
A Record Book. — A small three-quire, paper-covered blank book
was bought, which cost $4.o(). A very high price.
Fearless (Jominit^sioiiers. — During the year the Commissioners pur-
sued the even tenor of their way, granting petitions for roads, fer-
ries, tavern licenses and election precincts ; appointing and remov-
ing officers with an inflexibility of purpose that is really amusing.
When they investigated a matter there were no ])al Hating circum-
stauces to screen the delinquent, but the judicial guillotine cut off
official heads with a refreshing impartiality. Negligent officers
feared the power of the "triple C" more than Damocles feared the
hair-suspended sword. They simply and plainly said "Go," and the
official hesitated not but went at once, and tliat was the end of it.
First Marria(/e License. — The first marriage license that was ever
issued from this county was on New Year's day, 1825, and to
Lyman Tracy. Previous to this Justices of the Peace, or other
offi{aals, would perform the marriage ceremony and then send a cer-
ti{i(';Ue of the marriage to the Clerk's office to be spread upon the
r;Tords.
Bounty for Wolf Scalps. — Wo.lves were abundant in that day and
:vere troublesome to everybody. As a motive to induce persons to
kill more of them than they were doing, the Commissioners, on
March 7, 1825, offered a bounty of one dollar each £ur wolf scalps.
This order was soon repealed, however, for wolf scalps came in so
fist that in a short time the county would have been bankrupt, and
yet we doubt if the numl)er of w(dves would have been missed.
Estraij Pen. — One of the curious provisions of the law in the
times of which we are now writing was, that stock was permitted to
run at large. The Supreme Court of the State reversed the common-
law idea prevailing almost universally in regard to stock running at
large. In consequence of this every man was comjudled to fence
his entire farm to protect his crops from wandering herds. The
decision of the Court required stock to be fenced out instead of in.
It would have been much less expensive for each man to have pro-
tected himself from his own stock.
Each settler had recorded in a book ke})t by the County Clerk,
certain ear-marks and brands adopted by him for marking his stock,
and by which he could identify his cattle and hogs. The vast prai-
ries were then in their native condition, free from fences, cultivation
or any sort of improvements. By many they wer(> thought to be
worthless for all -MMctical firming purposes, except to furnish graz-
ing f )r stock. Horses and cattle often wandered into adjoining
counties. There were, however, means l)y which such stock might
be recovered. In each county-scat was an cstray pen wherein all
unclaimed and unknown stock was confined. Notice was quite often
published of the number, kind and marks of the stock taken u]). At
the March term, 1825, an estray [)en was ordered to be built.
Road Tax. — Persons were required to work on the roads to ])av
their poll-tax then as now. The schedule of labor prices foi- this
250 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY,
work was as follows : "One day's work 62^ ots. ; for one pair of
oxen 37J cts. ; wagon 25 cts. ; plow 12| cts."
Chisus. — June 10, 1825, H. R. Colter was ordered to take the
census of the county. We do not know the result, as his report
was not seen.
Bids for Assessment. — At the December term, 1826, the Clerk
was ordered to give notice in three public places that " sealed pro-
posals will be received by this Court on March 1, 1827, for taking
the assessment of the taxable property of Fulton county for
1827-28."
Count If I^evenue. — The amount of the tax of the county for 1828
was only §176.68. This was not as much as it was in former years,
but then Peoria, Chicago and all of the northern portion of the
State were attached to this county. Peoria county was cut off from
Fulton in 1825, and then that county included all north of it to the
State line. Knox county, 'tis true, still remained attached to this
in 1828, but that being the year the first settler located in that
county it could not be expected that any revenue would be derived
from there. When Knox county was formed it was attached to this
for judicial purposes, and the first election held in that county was
ordered bv the Commissioners' Court of this county. It constituted
the entire county one election precinct, and ordered an election in
1828 for Justices of the Peace to be held at the house of Stephen
Osborn. Osaorn, Stephen Gum and Nicholas Voiles were ap-
pointed judges.
A New Court-House Built. — The old log court-house soon began to
need repair, and indeed some of the more aristocratic thought the
county should have a new one, a building more in keeping with the
wealth and progress of the county. Accordingly, in March, 1830,
the Court advertised for bids both for the repair of the old log
house and for the erection of a new frame building. Abraham W.
Williams wanted $475 to put the old one in proper repair. John
McNeil offered to build a ne\y one for $649 and the old log one.
After a short canvass of the bids the contract for building a new
court-house was given to McNeil. This building did service for a
few years when it, too, was abandoned and the present structure
erected. The old frame court-house now stands one block west of
the square in a dilai)idated state. When it was erected no doubt it
was one of the finest and largest public buildings in the State.
Trouble with Ojficials. — The first use that Fulton county had for a
Coroner was, so far as we can find any evidence, in March, 1881,
and even then it was not to hold an incjuest. Gen. Isaiah Stillman
had been appointed Treasurer, and called upon the former Treasurer,
John McNeil, for the moneys, books, etc., belonging to the county
and in his possession. He (McNeil) reported to the Court that the
Sheriff, Chas. Newcomb, Avho was also C'ollector, refused to pay
over the whole amount of county taxes. It was therefoce ordered
that a citation be issued directed to the Coroner, or any Constable,
HISTORY OF FITLTON COTTNfY. 251
requiring the Sheriff to a])pear mul show cause, "if any he hath,"
why judgment should not be entered against him. This is the iirst
mention of a Coroner in these records, and we arc unable to find
who filled the position up to the year 1831, save for the first term.
31erclianfi<' License. — At the April terra, 18.'>1, a li(^ense was rc-
(^uired for the selling of merchandise. Twenty dollars was charged
for this license.
Paupers. — Joshua Stinson, the first ])auper, and Parmelia Fair-
child, the second one, were ordered "let out to the lowest bidder by
the year."
Another Jail. — Necessarily, as faithful historians, we are compelled
again to mar the pleasant progress of this chapter by reference to
prison bars. It seems as the county advanced in wealth and pop-
ulation the evil principle kept pace with it ; and, as immaculate and
good as the pioneer fathers undoubtedly were, even among them
there were wicked and vicious characters. The old log jail was
unfit for use any longer; accordingly, in June, 1833, a new jail was
ordered built on the northwest corner of the public square, on lot
215. Samuel Cozard built it for !^()74. This structure stood for
many years and held ])risoners rather loosely. In April, 1845, how-
ever, it was burned down. There was a prisoner confined within it
by the name of James Knott. His crime was the common one, at
that time, of horse-stealing, Knott evidently concluded that he
had been incarcerated long enough, and also that he would seek
revenge upon the old prison for robbing him of his liberty as long
as it had, and at the same time have some fun. xVccordingly, dur-
ing the night and about the hour of twelve, he liberated himself,
which seems not to have been an ovc-rlaborious task. He then set
fire to the structure and fled. Soon the peaceful slumberers of the
little village were aroused by the alarming cry of" fire." The mas-
culine portion of the entire populace, and not a few women, rushed
to the scene. Their jail was being licked up by the fire-fiend.
Soon the greatest consternation prevailed. It was noised through
the crowd that Knott was in the jail and would therefore perish.
There was no key at hand, and as greatly as the early settlers des-
pised horse-thieves their noble, generous hearts c(udd not see one
perish in the flames without a desperate effort to rescue him. Im-
mediately battering rams were being hurled against the heavv door
by strong and resolute men. Every heart was bleeding with sym-
pathy for poor Knott; and could he have had his trial at that time,
"not guilty" would have been the speedy verdict. Soon the door
gave way beneath the ponderous blows, and every eye was turned
toward that spot of the burning structure, expecting to see James
Knott, singed and burnt, run out; but no Knott came. Death-like
silence ])revailed. A moment passed in this imj)atient waiting, when
some, braver than the others, ventured into the burninu' buildino';
but James could not be found. Various rumors were then
afloat about him. AViiat must have been their chagrin, when a few
252 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUXTY.
days afterwards the culprit was captured in the timber I He told
the story of his escape and laughed at the joke he had played upon
them.
Clerk's Office. — At the same time the jail Avas contracted for, a
Clerk's office was ordered built. The contract was let to Ephraim
Brown for 8318. It was to be l)uilt upon lot 182.
The Present Court- House. — During the latter part of 1836 and
the early part of 1837, again the people began to agitate the ques-
tion of building a new court-house. The county had grown rapidly,
both in population and wealth. To further the plan a subscription
was made by private individuals for the purpose. At the meeting
of the Commissioners' Court, Friday, March 10, 1837, this resolu-
tion was passed : " The Court being satisfied that the public inter-
est demands, and the respectability and ]:>rospcrity of the people,
require, the erection of a good, substantial court-house, suital)le to
accommodate the present and future ]>opulation of the county, and
the sum of S2,000 having been subscribed by the citizens of Fulton
county towards defraying the expense of such a building, it is there-
fore ordered that a court-h(juse be built on lots Xos. 181 and 214 in
the town of Lewistown, and that said court-house be built of bricks,
upon a suitable foundation of stone, and to be 40 by o3 feet on the
ground with a projection of the roof of 12 feet, supported by four
pillars of suitable material. It is further ordered that Xewton
Walker, John McXeil, Erasmus D. Rice, Myron Phelps and John
P. Boice be ap})ointed a committee to make a draft of the building
and an estimate of the probable expense of such a building, and
that they be requested to report the same to the Court to-morrow
morning at ten o'clock." This committee ( and a better one could
not have Ijeen selected, nor even at this day could it be excelled)
reported that a building such as was desired would cost S7,ol7.
Xewton AValker was then appointed agent to purchase material and
make contracts for said building on behalf of the county. Xo con-
tracts were ever let, hoAvever, hut AValker was chosen superintend-
ent for the county, and he superintended the entire work. The
total cost of the buildina; was 89,800.
It stands in the center of a small square, which is set with many
large and beautiful maple and other trees. The upper room, which
occupies the entire second floor, is used for Circuit Court purposes.
It is reached by two flights of iron stairways, Avhich are constructed
in the portico, and land together on a platform in front of the door.
This portico extends across the entire east end of the building, and
is supported by four large stone pillars, nine feet nine inches in
circumference, and extending to the top of the building. On the
first floor there is a hall-way running through the building from
east to west. On either side of this are offices for the county
officials. Upon the south side are the County Judge's and Sheriff's
offices. Upon the opjiosite side are two offices occupied by the
County Treasurer and County School Superintendent. The Circuit
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 253
and County Clork.s occupy a builclino; known a? the " iire-proof/'
which is located west of the main buikling within the same square.
This buikling is so constructed as to insure the public records from
loss by fire.
This building when erected was among; the finest and largest
court-houses in the West, and for many years it stood foremost
among the public buildings of Illinois, and was pointed to with
pride not only by the citizens of Fulton county but by those
throughout Central Illinois. It stood as a monument of the enter-
prise of the pioneers of this section, and was one of the grandest
evidences of the prosperity of the newly settled State. It stands
to-day as solid as when first built. Every stone and brick is in its
place, and every timljer has stood the storms of nearly half a cen-
tury unshakem Around this old building cluster pleasant recollec-
tions of the long-ago. Within its storm-beaten walls have been
heard pleas as rich in eloquence as were ever presented to judge or
jury. Within those old walls, made sacred by time and the mem-
ories of some of the grandest characters and most gifted men known
in the history of Illinois, many a scene full of historic interest has
occurred, which, could we accurately picture them, would be read
more as a romance than prosaic history. What numbers of
trembling and downcast prisoners have stood before the
learned tribunal within the old upper room, to plead " Guilty," or
"Not Guilty!" Then the long, hotly-contested trial came; wit-
nesses examined and cross-examined ; the wrangle and wordy wars
between the lawyers; the appeal to the jury and addresses, which
for logic, eloquence, touching, sympathetic eloquence, have not been
excelled in all the broad land. How many times have the twelve
jurors, sworn to be impartial, filed into their little secret room, to
consult and decide the fate of the prisoner at the bar ! Then how
often have the joyous words come forth, " Not Guilty ! " But,
again, how very many have stood before the Judge to hear in meas-
ured tones their sentence ! Sometimes it was thouoht Justice was
outraged; that the Judge, jury and Prosecuting Attorney had pros-
tituted their high positions, violated their sworn duty, and made
easy the escape for culprits; yet, taking it all in all, the goddess of
justice has shed no more tears over insults to her holy and righteous
charge than she has at any other judgment-bar in the State. Law
and justice have almost always been vindicated, and the oifender
punished.
C/Ould these old walls speak and tell us of the eloquent andeflFect-
ive pleadings of Lincoln, Baker, Richardson, McDougal, Brown-
ing, Bushnell, Manning, Walker and others, orof the learned decis-
ions of Douglas, A'oung, Thomas, Walker and Higbie, that they
have listened to, how eagerly we would seek them ! We do not for-
get that at the present time justice is as swiftly vindicated as ever
before; that the Fulton county Bar is at its maximum in point of
legal ability. It takes the mazes of time to add the luster of fame
254 HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNT V.
to the labors and character of most men. That which is of the past,
or of the future, we are wont to believe possesses more merit than
that which we have with us. Thus it is with our leual lights of
to-day.
PanneUa Fairchikl. — In June, 1838, it was "ordered, that the
keeping of Parmelia Fairchikl [the second pauper] for the ensuing
year be now offered by the Sheriff. Whereupon, afterwards the
Sheriff reported that he had offered the keeping of said P. Fair-
child and struck her off to Absalom Walters for the sum of §104,
he being the lowest and best bidder and agreeing to take charge and
maintain her for one year."
First Temperance Tro/7;. — It seems that even among the pioneers,
almost all of whom we are led to believe used intoxicating liquors
more Qr less, there were temperance advocates. Pej-haps the first
temperance work ever done in the county was in 1838. The good
work was then inaugurated which has since driven out every saloon
from the borders of Fulton county ; has lifted many of the fallen,
and saved thousands of our young men from the inevitable ruin of
body and soul that rum brings to the unfortunate one who tamjjers
with it.
June 7, 1838, we find this item on the records relative to the
temperance labors of these noble pioneers, — pioneers both as to open-
ing up a new and beautiful country and as to beginning to roll the
temperance stone: "The petition of A. M. Culton and other citi-
zens of Canton and Farmington and vicinity, requesting this Court
to withhold licenses for the retailing of spirituous liquors, being
presented in Court, and the prayer and object of the petition being
fully considered and duly appreciated by the Court, it is considered
by this Court that however desirable it may be to suppress and pre-
vent the use of intoxicating liquors, yet the members of this Court
are of the opinion that any respectable citizen has the right to re-
quire, and the Court is bound by the exi.-tjng laws of the State to
grant, licenses to keep public houses of entertainment, or taverns,
and that the object of the petitioners can only be obtained by peti-
tion to the Legislature."
A Xeic Hegime in Choosing Commissioners. — Heretofore the terms
of office of all three of the Commissioners had expired at the same
time; but in 1838 a new rule was adopted, in compliance with an
act of the Legislature. Xow they were to be elected for three years
and one retire every year, thus leaving two experienced men in
office. For the first terms, however, one of them should serve only
one year, another two and the third three years. On convening at
the fall term of this year they drew lots to decide the term each
should serve. Three ])ieces of paper, upon which Avere written
"one year," "two years," "three years," respectively, were put into
a hat. Hiram Wentworth drew the one-year slip, John Johnson
the one indicating two years, and John Baker the one for the three-
vear term.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 200
Pauperfi f>okJ. — The old custom of letting out paupers singly was
abolished in March, 1843, and a somewhat diiferent mode instituted.
" They were all," as the record puts it, '' sold at the door of the
court-house by the Sheriif, and Emsley Wiley being the lowest bid-
der, they were struck oflP to him for the sum of |549." Whether
the veteran pauper, Parmelia Fairchild, was among the number we
know not, but presume she was, as she was bid off alone the year
previous. She had been on hand for nigh unto twenty years, and
had always been treated kindly by the Court. To support her had
become a portion of its labor, and year after year we find she was " bid
off," and the Commissioners as cheerfully paid bills for keeping her
as they did their own salaries.
The following year, 1844, the records say, in referring to letting
out the paupers: ''Four were absolutely sold and two condition-
ally." What they regarded as an "absolute sale" we do not
know.
A Xeir Jail Ordered Built. — In 1846 a jail with a jailor's residence
was ordered built. However, the subject was discussed some
among tlie ])eople, and it was a question whether a majority of the
tax-payers favored the building of a new jail. The Commissioners,
wishing to comply with the wishes of the majority, ordered the
question voted upon at the August election of that year. This was
accordingly done, and the measure defeated, and the order repealed.
Ex-Sheriff Waggoner, when he resided where Judge S. P. Shope
does at present in the city of Lewistown, which was about this time,
the country to the north of his residence was thickly covered with
hazel. During the trial of JS^ehemiah North up for tiie murder of Nor-
man Beamas, he kept the prisoner at his house, there being no jail.
Although it seems that he might have very easily effected his escape,
yet he never attempted it. He was- admitted to bail by the Court,
but never appeared for trial. He took this opportunity for making
good his escape, and since has never been heard from.
The Sheriff also tells us of a little Jllnglish prisoner whom he kept
at his residence for some time. During the evening the Sheriff would
leave him with his wife and go down town and remain often for
several hours. The prisoner was unshackled and seemingly un-
watched, yet he never attempted to make his escape while in the
hands of Sheriff Waggoner. He was taken to Monmouth and con-
fined in the jail there for a time, but soon made his escape. He
broke jail there and was never recaptured. He wrote Major Wag-
goner a letter some time afterw:trd, from New Philadelphia, ()., in
which he stated that he didn't like the Monmovith jailor and didn't
propose to stay there ; so left. He expressed great friendship for the
Major and said he never would have attempted his escape while in
his hands.
Fird Poor Farm. — June 9, 1848, we find on the records this
order : " Ordered, that the Clerk of this Court enter upon the
records that there is a poor-house established in this county, and it
256 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
is now ready for the reception of the poor of the county." This is
the lirst mention made, upon the records, of a poor farm, and they
are silent as to its cost or location. It was, however, located upon
the northwest quarter of sec. 25, Cass township, and the east half
of the northwest quarter of see. 36. The former tract cost 81,400,
the latter §25. The paupers were cared for at this ]>lace for a while,
when s(^me thought it too expensive and wished to return to the
old mode. This they did, but to their sorrow, for they then found the
expense per pauper was almost double Avhat it had been keeping them
at the poor-house.
Free Ferry. — June 5, 1846, 8100 was given Samuel Gilfry to run
a free ferry for one year across Spoon river at AVaterford. Previous
to this a license and a schedule of prices were given to govern the
ferryman ; but the prices charged in later years were much lower
than those given for Ross' ferry over the Illinois.
The Lad Meeting. — The new Constitution which went into effect
in 1849, abolished this Court, but before adjourning the Court or-
dered a vote taken for or against township orgauiziitiou at the next
election. On Oct. 11 the County Commissioners' Court performed
its last official duties. Their last act was to allow Myron Phelps
§1,888 for goods furnished the county. The Court then adjourned
till "court in course," but never re-assembled.
I
CHAPTER IV.
. ■ GEOLOGY.*
Fulton county contains a superficial area of about twenty-four
townsliips, or about 864 square miles. It is triangular in sh«pe,
and is bounded on the north by Knox and Peoria eoiinties, on the
east by Peoria county and the Illinois river, on the south by
Schuyfer county, and on the west by Schuyler, McDonough and
Warren counties. The principal streams in the county are the Illi-
nois river, forming its main boundary on the east and southeast for
a distance of about thirty miles ; Spoon river and its tributaries,
which traverse nearly the whole extent of the county from north to
south ; and CV)pperas creek, which drains a considerable area in the
northeastern portion of the county. These streams drain the whole
area of the county, and are from 150 to !:^:)0 feet below the general
level of the highlands.
Originally the surface was nearly equally divided into prairie and
timbered lands, the former occupying the most elevated positions of
the county, as well as a part of the Illinois-river bottoms, while
the timber belts are restricted to the more broken lands skirting the
water-courses. INIucli of the original timber, however, has been
cleared away in developing the agricultural resources of the county,
and splendid farms now occupy a large portion of the area which
but a few years since. was covered with a dense forest. Much of
the upland was originally timbered with a dense growth of sugar-
maple, black-walnut, linden, hackberry, elm, honey-locust and wild
cherry, indicating a very rich and productive soil. This growth of
timber usually prevails where the Loess overlies the drift clays on a
moderately level surface, and these lands iii their productive qualities
are second to none in the State. Where the surface is broken into
sharp ridges, along the borders of the smaller streams, black and
white oak and hickory are the prevailing.timber, and the soil is a
thin, chocolate-colored, or In'OAvn clay loam, well adapted to the
growth of small grain, clover or fruit.
The prairies generally have a rolling surface, though in the region
about Fairview there are some quite flat prairies that require drain-
ing in wet season^. The soil on the })rairies is a dark-ln-own or
black mold, varying from one to three feet in thitikuess, Mitka sub-
••■Taken from State Geologist A. H. Worthen's Report.
2dS HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
soil of brown clay loam. The bottom lands on the western bank of
the Illinois river are from one to fonr miles in width, and are mostly
covered with timber, thongh there is some bottom })rairie near the
month of Spoon river. A good deal of this bottom land is too low
and marshy for cnltivation, bnt where it is sufficiently elevated the
soil is of a rich, sandy loam, and 'very productive.
The bluffs generally range from 125 to 150 feet in height, and
are usually cut into sharp ridges by the valleys of the small streams
that drain the adjacent country. The lower parts of these bluffs, to
the height of 75 to 100 feet, consist of the stratified rocks of the
Coal Measures into which the original valley was excavated, and
their elevation has l)ecn subsequently increased by the accumulation
(»f Drift clays and lacustrine deposits u})on them. The valley of
Spoon river seldom exceeds a mile in w idth, and is excavated into
the Lower Carboniferous limestone on that part of its course extend-
ing from Bernadotte. The depth of this valley is about the same
as that of the Illinois river, but the lower rocks are reached here,
in consequence of the easterly dip of the strata, wliich brings the
limestone nearer to the surface in the western portion of the county.
Surface GeoIo</i/. — The surface deposits of Fulton county consist
of Drift clays and gravel, with the subsequent lacustrine and alluvial
accumulations. The Drift pro])er ranges in thickness from 30 to 00
feet or more, and is usuqlly composed of thrown and bluish-colored
clays with gravel, and boulders of metamorphic and igneous rocks,
varying in size from a ])ebble to masses of several tons' weight.
Usually the brown clays constitute the u])])er ])ortion of the deposit,
and the blue clays the lower. In the vicinity of Utica a bed of
ferruginous conglomerate, about two feet in thickness, underlies the
Drift clays, and similar beds in local outliers have been met with in
tlie same ])osition, at several localities in the State. This conglom-
erate exactly resembles the bed at Metropolis in Massic county, on
the Ohio river, which has been usually referred to the Tertiary
period, and may be of the same age.
On the west side of Big-creek bridge, near Canton, in grading the
track for the T., P. & W. railroad, a band of black mold or soil,
containing leaves and fragments of wood, was found below the
Drift clays, which is no doubt a part of the ancient soil covering
the surface anterior to the Drift epoch. A similar bed has been
found in sinking shafts and wells in various parts of the State, and
indeed in hundreds of places in Fulton county alone, indicating the
prevalence of dry land over a considerable portion of the present
area of the State during the Post-Tertiary period. Mr. John Wolf,
of Canton, reports a similar bed of black, peaty soil, four feet in
thickness, underlying the town of Fairview, at the depth of eleven
feet. The heaviest deposits of Drift occur along the Illinois-river
bluffs and in the vicinity of Lewistown, where the beds range from
40 to 60 feet in thickness.
The Loess caps the bluffs of the Illinois river, and extends back
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 259
for three or four miles with a constantly diminishino; thickness.
This deposit consists of buif or light-brown, loamy sand, imperfectly
stratified, and locallv contains abundance of land and fresh-water
shells.
Okkr Geological Formations. — The stratified rocks belong mainly
to the Coal Measures, with a limited exposure of the St. Louis
limestone in the valley of Spoon river. Nearly all of the uplands
in the county are underlaid by coal, and Prof Worthen says that he
has found the most comi)lete exposure of the productive Coal
Measure in this county that he has met with in the State. He
has, therefore, considered the section constructed in Fulton as a
typical one, and has used it for the co-ordination of the coal strata
throughout the central and western portion of the State. There
were seven consecutive seams found here, and all exposed by their
natural outcrop ; and all except the upper one have been worked
to a greater or less extent. The aggregate thickness of these coal
seams is about 25 feet, and' their individual range is from twenty
inches to six feet in thickness. The three lower seams outcrop in
the southern and western portions of the county, especially along
the bluifs of Spoon river; and as the general dip of the strata is to
the eastward, they pass below the level of the Illinois river, and
are therefore not seen on the eastern borders of the county. The
upper seams underlie nearly all of the central and eastern portions
of the county, and one of them. No. 4, is found south of Spoon
river, underlying the highlands in the vicinity of Astoria.
These coal seams are numbered from the bottom upward. The
onlv point in the county where No. 1 is sufliciently developed to be
profitably worked is in the vicinity of Seville. The seam is worked
here at two localities, one above the railroad bridge and the other
below. At these mines the coal averages about three feet in thick-
ness.
In the vicinity of Avon a seam of cannel coal occurs at about the
same horizon as No. 1. This seam is only about 14 to 20 inches in
thickness. It w^as extensively worked in 1859, for the distillation
of coal oil. Ten retorts were then in operation at this locality, and
the product was said to be 30 gallons from a ton of coal. However,
the development of the oil wells of Pennsylvania shortly afterwards
put a stop to the manufacture of oil from cannel coal in this State,
and the mines were abandoned. This seam is underlaid here by
about five feet of excellent fire-clay.
Coal No. 2 is one of the most regular seams in the whole series,
and usually ranges from two to three feet in thickness. It will be
found everywhere in the bluffs of Spoon river, where the strata are
well exposed, and its stmtigraj^hical position is about 40 or 50 feet
above the horizon of No. 1, although at Seville the distance inter-
vening between them is about 70 feet. The roof is almost invari-
ably a blue clay shale, and in tunneling it requires to be thoroughly
cribbed to prevent the falling of the roof In the south part of the
260 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
coimtv this seam outcrops on Otter creek, about a mile and a half
west of Vermont, where it has been worked since the earliest settle-
ment of the county. It ranges in thickness from two and a half
to three feet. A boring for oil was made in the valley of this creek
bv Moses Matthewson. The boring extended to the depth of about
800 feet, but no journal was kept of the diiferent strata passed
through. In the bluif^ of Spoon river south of Lcwistown, as well
as on some of the small tributaries of that stream in the same
vicinitv, Xo. 2 is worked at many points, and also about half a
mile west of that city. Half a mile east of Lewistowu this seam
has been opened by a shaft 40 feet in depth on the lands of Mr.
Hunter. "Two miles and a half southeast of liCwistown," Prof.
AVorthen says, " we found a mine opened in this seam on the lands
of Mr. AVm. AVinterbottom, on our first visit to the county in 1859,
and at the same time it had been opened a mile nearer the town by
Mr. Butler. In the vicinity of Beruadotte this coal is found at an
elevation of about 80 feet above the river level, and the coal was
mined bv Mr. Parks one mile and a half southwest of the village,
in 1859." Xo. 2 usually affords coal of an excellent quality, freer
from the bi-sulphuret of iron than the average of Illinois coals, and
one that cokes well and contains more than an average of fixed
carbon.
Coal Xo. 3 has been mined but little in this county. It usually
lies from 40 to 60 feet above Xo. 2.
Coal Xo. 4 is a very persistent seam in its development, and was
found at every locality in this county that Avas examined by the
State Geologist. On the south side of Spoon river it underlies the
highlands about Astoria, and it was opened here as early as 1859.
The seam is here from four and a half to five feet in thickness, and
is overlaid by about two feet oi black sliale that forms a good roof
This seam is very extensively worked near Astoria, and at St.
David and Canton. At Breed's Station a tunnel has been opened
in this seam. The coal averages about five feet in thickness here.
It is worked near Cuba, and northwest of Fairview it is Avorked at
several points on the breaks of Coal creek. This may be consider-
ed the most valuable of all the coals outcropping in this county,
from its Avide extent and the average quality of the coal Avhich it
affords.
Coal Xo. r is quite local in its deA'elopment, and is not worked to
any extent except in the vicinity of Cuba, Avhere it ranges from
four to fiA'e feet in thickness.
Coal Xo. 6 is the highest coal in the series that has been Avorked
to any extent in this county, and it affords an excellent coking coal,
and also a better smiths' coal than is usually obtained from any of
the lower seams. It Agarics in thickness from four to fi\'e feet. Prof.
W. says of this seam: "On our first A'isit to this county in 1859, we
found this seam opened at Piper's place, tAvo miles north of Canton ;
at Barton's place, two and a half miles north of Farmingtou ; and it
Vg^^irf <%,^,.- ^.
^. <J5^ . <^M^x^^^^^ Z^
(DECEASED)
CANTON
OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FlM/rON COUNTY. 263
was also worked by Mr. Burbridge at that time, about three miles
w^est of Farminerton, (in Little creek. More recently it has been
opened by Mr. Johnson on land adjoining Piper's." Six miles
northeast of Canton, on a branch of Copperas creek, this coal has
been worked by tunnelling. It was worked at Powell's, near Nor-
ris. Burbridge & Co.'s shaft, one mile w^est of Farmington, reaches
coal No. 6 at a depth of ■2() feet. This seam lies about Ui) feet below
the leyel of the town of Farmington. It is also mined two miles
northeast of Fairyiew. This seam prol)ably underlies some three or
four townships north and east of Canton, and may be reached any-
where in that region at a depth yarying from 25 to 100 feet.
Coal No. 7 is the highest coal stratum seen in this county, and
l)eing usually only from IG to 20 inches in thickness no attempt has
been made to mine it in competition witli thicker seams.
ECONOMICAL (JEOLOGY.
Bititiidiious Coal. — The oreat mineral wealth of Fulton county, as
must be apparent, consists in its almost inexhaustible beds of coal,
which are so distril)ute(l as to be easily accessible to eyery portion of
the county. The three lower seams outcroj) on all the principal streams
in the southern and western ])ortions of the county, while coals 4, 5
!Uk1 6, the thickest and most yahiable seams known in the northern
jKirtion of the State, underlie the ceiitral and northeastern })ortions
of the county. These coals underlie nearly or (|uite seyen townships,
with an nggregate thickness of about 11 feet; and, throwing out of
the calculation entirely No. o, which is more local in its deyclo})-
ment than the other two, we still haye an aggregate of from nine to
ten feet of coal, equal to 9,000,000 tons of coal to the square mile
as the product of these two seams, from tlie central and northeastern
portions of the county alone, and within loO feet of the surface at
the general leyel of the j)rairie region. Taking the seyen townshi[)s,
there would be, of these tMM) seams, 2,268,000,000 tons of coal finder-
lying the sui'face. Who could calcidate the number of tons of all
the seyen strata underlying the entire county? Coal-mining is yet
in its infancy in this most highly fayorcd region.
(Jannel (hal. — A thin seam of cannel coal occurs in the yicinity
of Ayon, and before the discoyery of the yast deposits of oil in
Pennsylyania it was mined for the distillation of oil.
FIrr-Claf/. — A good l)ed of tire-clay, from three to fiye feet in
thickness, occurs below the cannel coal at Ayon. At Andrews' coal
bank, two miles and a half north of Marietta, there are from two to
three feet of good iire-clay below the coal, and at many other locali-
ties in the county.
Iron Ore. — "Iron ore in ciuisiderable (piantities," says Prof W.,
" was met with at several localities in the county. In the yicinity
ofSeyille there is a bed oi Limomie, from eight to twelye inches
thick, immediately aboye the limestone that forms the roof of the
lower coal." The same band of ore was seen in the yicinity of
17
264 HISTORY OF PTTLTON COUNTY.
Avon. In the vicinity of Utica there is considerable impure car-
bonate of iron. Iron ore is ahiiost universally disseminated through
the Coal Measures in this State, but usually in too small quantities
to be of any great value for the production of metallic iron ; but it
is quite probable that the ores of this county may at some future
time become valuable for this ])urpose.
BulkUng-Stone. — The Coal Measures seldcjui afford large quanti-
ties of limestone of sufficient thickness and of the right quality for
good building-stone, and this material has to be sup})lied mainly
irom the sandstones, which are usually the })rcvailing rock in the
coal regions. There are some beds of limestone, however, in this
county that furnish a suitable material for rough walls, though the
supply is quite limited.
Limestone for Lime. — The gray concretionary beds of the St.
Louis group, which outcroj) in the valley of Spoon river from Se-
ville to Bernadotte, will afford the best material for the manufacture
of quick-lime to be found in the county. This rock is usually a
nearly pure carbonate of lime, and the beds in the vicinity of Alton,
which also belong to this group, aff'ord the purest and whitest of
lime made in the State. The limestone above No. 7 coal is gener-
ally a purer carbonate of lime than any other of the Coal Measure
limestones in this county, and might be extensively used in the
vicinity of Farmington for lime-burning.
f^dud (uid Clay for BrU-h. — These materials are abundant on all
the u])lands in the county. On the bluff' lands adjacent to the Illi-
nois river the Loess affords an excellent material for this purpose,
in wliich the ingredients are often mixed in just the right propor-
tions. The subsoils of the prairies and of the oak ridges furnish an
abundance of brown clay, which, mingled with sand that is abun-
dant in the beds of the streams, forms a gocxl uiaterial for this ])ur-
pose. These materials are so universally distributed that they may
be readily found in everv neiy;hborhood, and on almost everv farm in
tlie county.
The reason whv timber soil is liy;hter and tiunner than that of the
})rairie, is probably the fa(^t that grass outran the trees in taking-
possession of the land, the latter coming slowly uj) the water courses
and contending against the annual jirairie fires. The trees once
upon the hill-sides and high land, shi.ding the ground, the grass
and other herbaceous plants were so killed out that the surface easily
washed down, rendering it still poorer for the latter while the trees
held on l)y their deeper roots.
CHAPTER V.
ZOOLOGY.
QUADRUPEDS.
Of the species of native animals that once roamed the flowery
j)rairies and wild forests of Fulton county, but few of the smaller
remain, iind none of the larjii;er. Of the latter we cannot even iind
a specimen preserved in taxidermy. The buffalo which grazed u])on
the verdant prairies has been driven westward. With or before it
went the beaver, elk, badger, panther, black wolf and black bear.
Some animals that were quite numerous have l)ecome very rare,
such as the gray fox, the catamount," otter, lynx, and the beautiful
Virginia deer.
There still remain many of the different species, mostly inhabit-
ing the country adjacent to the Illinois and Spoon rivers and a few
of the other larger streams. These arc, however, fast disap]>earing,
and ere long will be known only in iiistorv, as are the deer, the
beaver, and the bison. Among those still to be found here are the
gray wolf, which is numerous in some parts, the opossum, raccoon,
mink, muskrat, the common weasel, the small brown weasel, skunk,
woodchuck, or Maryland marmot, jjrairie mole, common shrew mole,
meadow and deer mouse, and the gray rabbit. Of sijuirrels there
are the gray timber s(|uirrel, the fox, chi])munk, the large gray
j)rairic s(|uirrel, the striped and the s})otted prairie sipiirrel, and the
beautiful Hying sipurrcl. The dark-brown and the reddish bat are
common. Other small animals have been found lu'rc whicii have
strayed from other localities.
iUKDS.
(Jf the o,()0() existing species of birds many have sojourned in this
county, some temporarily and others for a considerable time. Many
migratory species come only at long intervals, and therefore but little
is known of them.
There is not a more fascinating study than that afforded by our
feathered friends. Their free movements through seemingly bound-
less space, the joyous songs of many, and the characteristic tones of
all, their brilliant colors, their lively manners, and their wonderful
instincts, have from earliest ages made a strong impression on the
minds of men, and in the infancy of intellect gave rise to many
266 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
peculiar and mysterious associations. Hence the flight of birds
was made tiie foundation of a peculiar art of divination. Relig:ion
borrowed many symbols from tliem and poetry many of its orna-
ments. Birds avail themselves of their powers of wing to seek
situations adapted for them in respect to temperature and supply of
food. The arrival of summer birds is alwavs a welcome sign of
advancing spring, and is associated with all that is cheerful and
delightful. Some birds come almost at the same date annuallv ;
others are more influenced by the character of the season, as mild
or severe.
The following list is as nearly correct as can be compiled from the
available information upon the subject :
Ferchcrs. — This order of birds is by far the most numerous, and
includes nearly all those which are attractive eitlier in plumage or
in song. The ruby-throated humming-bird, with its exquisite
plumage and almost ethereal existence, is at the head of the list.
This is the humming-bird which is always the delight of the
children, and is the only one found in Illinois. The chimney swal-
low, easily known from other swallows bv its very long wings and
forked tail, and which is a true swift, is quite numerous. Of the
whipjioorwill family tliere are two representatives, — the whippoorwill
proper, whose uote enb'vens the forest at night, and tlie night-hawk.
The belted kingfisher, so well known to the school-boy, is the
onlv member of its familv in this region. At the head of the flv-
«^atchers is the king-bird, the crested flv-catcher and the wood
pewee.
Sub-order of -SVnf/c/'.v — Thrfishfdinilii. — Of this family arc the robin,
the wood thrush, Wilson's thrush, the blue-bird, the ruby-crowned
and the golden-crested wren, tit-lai-k. tlie black and the white
creeper, blue yellow-backed warbler, vel low-breasted chat, worm-
eating warbler, blue-wiuged yellow warl)lcr, Tennessee warbler, and
golden-crowned thrush. S/triJ:r fami/i/. — This family is represented
by the great northern shrike, red-eyed fly-catcher, white-eyed fly-
catcher, the blue-headed and the yellow-throated fly-catcher.
Siraf/ow famili/. — This family of birds are very numerous in Ful-
ton county. Among them are the barn swallow, white-bellied
swallow, bank swallow, clitf swallow, and purple martin. Wa.r-
irinr/ faini/i/. — The cedar bird is the representative of the wax-wing
in America. MofJ:!nf/-blriJ fdnulij. — The genera of this family ar(>
the cat-bird, brown thrush, the house and winter wren. Finch and
Sparrow familif. — The snow bunting and Smith's bunting appear
only in winter. The purjile finch, the yellow bird and the lark
finch inhabit this county. Of the passerine genus of this family
are the Savannah -^j^arrow, the field and the chipping sj>arrow, the
black snow-l)ird, the tree sparrow the song sparrow, the swamp and
the fox-colored sparrow, the black-throated bunting, the rose-
breasted gros-beak and the ground robin. Titmouse family is
represented by the chickadee and the tufted titmouse. Creeper
HISTORY OF FUI.TOX COUNTY. 267
family. — There are two specimens of this lamily, — the white-bellied
nut-hatch and the American creeper. Skylark family. — This melo-
dious family is represented here by only the common skylark of the
prairie. Black-bird family. — The rusty black-bird, the crow black-
bird, the cow-bird, the red-winged black-bird, the meadow lark, the
orchard and the Baltimore orioles of this family, are the most beau-
tiful and brilliant of birds that inhabit this region. Croiv family.
— The blue-jay and the common crow comprise the species of this
family.
Birds of Prey. — This order of birds comprises all those, with few
exceptions, which pursue and capture birds and other animals for
food. They are mostly of large size, the females are larger than the
males, they live in pairs, and choose their mates for life. Most rap-
torial birds have disappeared. Among them arc the golden eagle,
which was always rare but now no longer seen here ; the bald eagle,
or properly the white-headed eagle, once quite common, now scarce.
Some well preserved specimens of this genus are in the county.
This eagle enjoys the honor of standing as our national emblem.
Benjamin Franklin lamented the selection of this bird as emblemat-
ical of the Union, for its great cowardice. It has the ability of
ascending in circular sweeps without any apparent motion of the
wings or the tail, and it often rises in this manner until it disappears
from view ; when at an immense height, and as if observing an
object on the ground, it sometimes closes its wings, and glides to-
ward the earth with such velocity that the eye can scarcely follow
it, causing a loud rustling sound like a violent gust of wind among
the branches of the forest. The Hawk family has eight or nine
species, some but seldom seen, others common. The turkey-buzzard
has almost, if not quite, disappeared. Of the owl genera are sever-
al species, though all are but seldom seen because of their nocturnal
habits. Among them are the ])arn owl, the screech owl, tlie long
and the short-eared owl, the barred owl, and the snowy owl, the lat-
ter being the rarest.
Climbers. — But few of this order remain in the county, the most
common of which are the woodpeckers. Of the various kinds are
the golden-winged, the pileated, the hairy, the downy, the yellow-
bellied, red-bellied and the red-headed. At an early day the Car-
olina parrot was often seen, but he has now entirely deserted thU
section. The yellow and black-billed cuckoos are occasionally seen.
Scrafchers. — This order contains but few genera in this county.
The wild turkey, the choicest of game, has almost entirely disap-
peared, and was the only one of its family that ever sojourned here.
In an early day they were in abundance, (rrousc fa/mily. — The
chiefest among this family is the prairie chicken, which, if not care-
fully protected, must ere long follow the wild turkey, never to re-
turn. The ruffled grouse, wrongfully called "pheasant," has of late
made its appearance. It is quite fond of cultivated fields, and, if
properly protected and encouraged until it becomes fairly settled.
268 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
will make a fine addition to the game, and fill the place of the
prairie chicken. Partridge famUy. — The fate of that excellent bird,
the quail, is only a question of a short time. The Dove family. — The
wild pigeons continue to make their semi-annual visits, but not in
such vast numbers as vears ago. Acres of forest were so often filled
at night with these birds that the breaking of boughs and the flying
of pigeons made a noise that could be heard for miles, and the shot
of a sportsman's gun could not be heard at a distance of ten feet.
Highly interesting is the description by Audubon of the enormous
flights which he observed on the Ohio in the fall of 18J3; they
obscured the daylight and lasted three days without interruption.
According to a very moderate estimate of his, each flight contained
the stupendous number of one billion, one hundred and fifteen
thousand million, one hundred and thirty-six thousand pigeons.
These flights caused a general commotion among the entire rural
])opulation. Desirous of booty and anxious lest their crops should
be spoiled, the farmers, arming themselves Avith rifles, clubs, poles,
torches and iron pots filled with sulphur, proceed to the resting-
places of the birds. The work of slaughter being accomplished,
everybody sat down among mountains of dead pigeons, plucking
and salting the birds which they selected, abandoning the rest to the
the foxes, wolves, raccoons, opossums and hogs, whole herds of
which were driven to the battle-field. The plaintive notes of the
Carolina dove, commonly known as the turtle-dove, are still heard.
Swimmers. — This order of birds, which formerly frequented this
county in large numbers, have almost disappeared. They are mi-
gratory, and in their usnal season would appear coming from the
north or south, as winter passes into summer or summer into winter.
Diver family. — The great northern diver, or loon, sometimes visits
this section, but inhabits the frigid zone. Gull family. — Of this
family are Wilson's tern and the silvery gull. Pelican family. — The
rough-l)illed pelican was the only genus of this family that ever
stopped in Fulton county, and it has now altogether ceased to
make its visits here. Cormorant family. — The double-crested cor-
morant, or sea raven, has been seen here. Duck family. — This
family of migratory birds visited the ponds and streams of this
county in large numbers before it became so thickly settled, both on
their northern and southern passage, but now mostly confine them-
selves to the Illinois, where large numbers are found. This family
furnishes most game for sportsmen and for the table. There are the
wood-duck, the big black-headed duck, the ring-necked duck, the
red-head, the canvas-back, the dipper, the sheldrake or goosander,
the fish duck, the red-breasted, and the hooded merganser, the mal-
lard and the pintail, the green-winged and the blue-winged teal, the
spoonbill and the gadwall, the baldpate, the American swan, the
trumpeter swan and the white-fronted goose.
Waders. — Probably less is known of this order of birds than of
any other, because of their shyness and solitary habits. They fre-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 269
quented the marshes, but cultivation has drained their favorite
haunts. Crane famili/. — The whooping crane, always rare, is now
never seen. The sand-hill cranes stop on their journeys north and
south. Heron family. — The great blue heron or crane, least bittern,
the green heron, night heron and the American bittern, compose
those of this family visiting this region. Ibis family. — The glossy
ibis has been seen here. Plover family. — The golden plover, the
killdeer and the king plover comprise this family known here.
Phalarope family. — The Wilson's and the red phalarope have fre-
quented the swamps of this county, l^nipe family. — \"arious birds
of this family have been common in and around the swamps of this
county. Among them were Wilson's snipe, gray or red-breasted
snipe, the least and the semi-})almated sandpiper, the willett, the
tell-tale, the yellow-leg, the solitary sandpiper, the spotted sand-
piper, the field plover, long-billed curlew, the common rail, the clap-
per rail or mud hen, and the coot.
Reptiles. — All of the species of this class that ever inhabited this
region are still to be found here except the poisonous snakes. The
rattlesnake, of the genus Crotalus, is of a yellowish-brown color,
and has a series of horny joints at the end of the tail, which make
a rattling sound. These were the most venomous of all snakes
found here, and were numerous in tlie early settlement. There are
two kinds, the bandy, or striped, and the prairie rattlesnake, the lat-
ter being still occasionally found. The copperhead was always rare.
Among the harmless snakes are the water-snake, the garter-snake,
the bull-snake, the milk-snake, the black-snake, and the blue racer.
Many reptiles found here are erroneously called lizards, but are
salamanders and other like innocent creatures. Lizards are never
found in this county. Among the tortoises or turtles are found the
map turtle, the snapping and the soft-shelled turtle. Of the batra-
chian, or naked reptiles, there are a few, and, though loathsome to sight
and touch, are harmless. The toad, the l)ull-frog, the leopard-frog,
the tree-toad, with some tailed batrachia, comprise the most of this
order. The Illinois-river bull-frog is as large as a man's head, often
much larger, and his deep bellowing can be heard for a mile or more.
FISHES.
Although fishes are the lowest class of vertebrates, their varied
forms and colors, which often rival those of precious stones and
burnished gold, the wonderful power and velocity of some, the
wholesome food furnished by many, and the exciting sport of their
capture, combine to render fishes subjects of great interest to the
casual observer, as well as to the amateur and professional natural-
ist. The number of known species of fishes is about ten thousand.
The waters of this county are quite prolific of the finny tribe. The
commerce in fish has become quite extensive along the Illinois.
Sickle-backed family. — This family furnishes the game fish, and are
•270 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
never caught larger than lour pounds in weight. Tlie various gen-
era found here are the black bass, goggle-eye, the croppy, or big
black sun-fish, and the two common sun-fish. PU:c family. — There
are but two species of this family, — the pickerel, weighing from
five to twenty-five pounds, and the gar pike. Sucker fainily. — Of this
tribe are the buifalo, red-horse, white sucker, two species of black-
suckers, mullet ranick. Fisli of this family are found in all the
streams of the county. They abound wherever there is water.
Cat-fish family. — Of this voracious family the channel cat-fish, the
mud cat-fish and two species of the small cat-fish inhabit the waters
of this coiuity, and are caught ranging in weight from one to thirty
pounds.
The shovel-fish is yet abundant, and its fiesh, as well as its general
appearance, resembles that of the cat-fish. '
Besides these varieties there are the chub, silver-sides and
fresh-water herring, and large numbers of other species denominated
minnows, which are found in the smallest spring branches, as well as
the larger streams.
CHAPTER VI.
BOTANY.
Besides the mushrooms, mosses, lichens and the other lower orders,
there are about a thousand s))ecies of plants growing within the
bounds of this county. Having almost every variety of ground
here, our flora is richer than that of most other counties in the
State. On the following pages we give a list qf all the plants grow-
ing here, except the mushrooms, mosses, etc., and indicate their rel-
ative abundance by the letters a, abundant ; c, common but not
abundant ; v, rare but not very rare ; and v r, very rare. These terms
refer to the county at large. Some plants abound in certain situa-
tions, as sand, swamps, ponds, prairie, etc., in certain parts of the
county, which occur rarely if at all in other parts.
As to the order in the list, we follow Gray's Manual, 5th edition,
and give the English names instead of the scientific where they are
to be had. Names in parenthesis are generally synonyms. We
have not space to indicate medical ])roperties or other peculiarities.
Nearly all the plants growing spontaneously in cultivated and waste
grounds are "introduced," that is, they have been brought here by
white settlers, — unintentionally, of course, with reference to most of
the weeds. In the timbered section no j^articular weed is on the in-
crease at the present day, but in the prairie section the garden pars-
nip, common thistle, richweed (in the artificial gnn'es), toad-flax,
wild lettuce and oxybaphus, a four-o'clock plant, are increasing
rapidly. While the wild plants in the woods are about the
same as originally, the prairie has changed its grassy clothing for
cultivated crops and hundreds of different weeds. Before settlement
by the whites the prairie was mostly covered by one or two kinds of
grass. Several other kinds grew in patches here and there, notably
the Indian grass and blue joint, which grew very tall. In wet
places grew the slough grass and many sedges, and along the chan-
neled sloughs al)Ounded several species of golden-rod, aster and wild
sunflower, which in the latter part of the summer and during almost
the whole autumn formed broad yellow stripes across the prairies,
and were pecidiarly churming. Prairie clover, false wild indigo,
several species of rosin-weed and a few other Meeds have almost dis-
appeared with the original prairie, while a few of the modest straw-
berry, star-grass and blue-eyed grass remain M-ith us as sweet remin-
iscences of the past.
272 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
Persons coming to this county in early day were struck with
the high and rolling appearance of the prairie, which they had before
always imagined low and level ; and this billowy character of the
prairie, combined with its dreamy verdure, has inspired a native of
this county to indite the followino'
'&
A liillowy ocean with green carpet spread, \
Which iiowers with beauty in abundance fedl
With gUttering stars of amaryllis wliite,
With violets blue and roses red and bright,
With golden cinquefoil, star-grass, buttercups.
With dazzing cardinal-tlowers and painted-cups.
And bright-regaliaed meadow larks to sing,
This grassy sea appeared in smiling spring.
In summer came the stately compass-plant.
As if to guide the wandering immigrant.
Then asters, golden-rods and wild suntlowers
O'erspread the vales in labryinthine bowers.
Thus nature, clad in vesture gold and green.
Brought autumn in and closed the flowery scene.
In the forests the most valuable timber has been pretty cleanly
cut out, as the walnut, ash, hickory and tlie neatest oaks, while gin-
senof is the most notable of the herbaceous ])lants that has been nearly
all taken.
AVe venture to compile the following list of corrections from
Grav's Manual :
ERRONEOUS NAME. CORRECT NAME.
Sarsaparilla. Moonseed.
Buttercups. Creeping Crowfoot.
Ladies' Slippers (or Moccasins.) Touch-me-nots.
Sheep Sorrel. AVood Sorrel.
Ivy. Mrginia Creeper.
Bittersweet. Climbing Bittersweet.
Red Maple. White Maple.
Pursley. Purslane.
Black Haw. Sheepberry (mostly).
Ox-eye Daisy. Conefiower.
Canada Thistle. Common Thistle.
Spanish Needles. Beggar Ticks.
Carolina Pink. Cardinal Flower.
Blue-Bells. Smooth Lungwort.
Horsemint. Wild Bergamot.
Peppermint. Wild Mint.
Wild Morning-glorv. Hedge Bindweed.
Ball (or Bull) Nettle. Horse Nettle.
Lake Grass. River Club Rush.
Moonseed is a smooth vine running u[) on bushes somewhat like
a morning-glory, and has a round, bright yellow root, with a tonic
bitter taste, while the true wild sarsaparilla of this country is a kind
of large ginseng. The true l)uttercu])s of the P^ast arc not found
in this county. Sheep sorrel has lance-shaped, sharp-pointed
leaves, while wood sorrel has leaves like clover. Poison ivv has
leaves like the box-elder, three leaflets to each leaf, and when the
l)laut is voung it can be distinguished from tlie latter by its having
HISTORY OF FUT.TON COFXTT. 273
no white bloom on the stem. The Virginia ereeper has five leaflets
to each leaf, almost in a circle, and is quite innoxious. The true
bittersweet does not grow wild here. It has sparingly escaped from
o-ardens to roadsides. Red maple grows in Southern Illinois, but
not here. Its flowers are quite red. There is the true black-haw in
this county, very scarce, and differs but very little from the more
common sheep-berry. Beggar-ticks differ but little from the true
Spanish needles. Cardinal-flower is that dazzling scarlet-red flower,
on a plant about two feet high in low grounds, July and August.
The white-flowered wild " morning-glory " is hedge bindweed. The
true Solomon's seal has greenish-white flowers along the sides of
tiie plant, and the berries when ripe are black or blue; false Solo-
mon's seal has white flowers at the summit, and speckled berries.
The svcamore of the old world is very diflerent from our syca-
more here (button-wood). The diflerent kinds of ash are difficult
to distinguish, and some of the oaks hybridize so that the leaves of
the same tree will often be various in shape, and the acorns of all
intermediate grades. Some names, even in the books, are applied to
two diflerent plants, as button snakeroot, black snakeroot, syca-
more, goose-grass, etc.
CATALOGUE OF PLANTS GROWING SPONTANEOUSLY IN
FULTON COUNTY.
Crotrfoot Famil}!. — a, creeping crowfoot ; r, Virginian anemone, Pennsyl-
vanian anemone, rue anemone, early meadow rue, purplish meadow rue, tall
meadow rue, yellow water crowfoot, water plantain spearwort, small-Howered
crowfoot, hooked crowfoot, bristly crowfoot, early crowfoot, false rue anemone,
marsh marigold (cowslips), wild columbine, liver-leaf (liverwort, hepatica),
dwarf larkspur, azure larkspur; /•, Clematis Pitcheri, virgin's bower, long-fruited
anemone, false bugbane, wood anemone (wind-flower), yellow puccoon (orange
root, turmeric root), white baneberry, black snakeroot ; rr, leather-flower, Caro-
lina anemone, stiff water crowfoot, mouse-tail, red baneberry.
CiixUml-AppJe Famihj. — r, pawpaw.
Moonsei'd Fdinlly. — c, Canadian moonseed.
Barherry F(nitih/. — a, May-apple (mandrake); r, blue cohosh (pappoose-
root); (T, twin-leaf.
Wnfrr-Lih/ Family.— c, tuber-bearing water-lily (the most common pond
or white lily )j yellow pond-lily (spatter-dock, frog lily; r, water-shield (water
target), yellow nelumbo (water chinquepin).
Poppy Family. — c, blood-root.
Fumitory Family. — c, Dutchman's breeches ; rr, climbing fumitory, squirrel-
corn, golden corydalis.
Mustard F((rnily.—a, hedge mustard, shepherd's purse, wild pepper-grass ;
c, marsh cress, lake cress, pepper-root, spring cress, small bitter cress, winter
cress (yellow rocket) tansy mustard, black mustard, Draba Caroliniana ; r, Arabis
Ludoviciana, lyrata dentata, hirsuta and Canadensis; /•/■, nasturtium sessiliflo-
rum, Arabis Ifevigatd and he?peridoides, wormseed mustard.
Caper Fauiily — ;■, spider-flower; n-, polanisia.
Vialrt Fa)uify.—a, blue violet; c, arrow-leaved violet, downy yellow violet,
/■, handdeaf violet, larkspur violet, bird-foot violet(also var. bicolor), dog violet;
/•/■, green violet, pale violet, pansy ( heart' s-ease).
Rock-Rosr Family.— F'mweeAs; c, Lechea minor; /■, Lechea major, tenui-
folia and racemosa, frostweed.
274 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
St. John'' s-ivort Family. — c, Hypericum corymbosum and mutilura ; ir, great
St. John's-wort, shrubby St. John's-AAort, common St. John's-wort, Hypericum
Canadense, orange-grass (pine-weed), marsh St. John'.s-wort.
Watrr-iroii FarniJij. — /•, Water-wort.
Pink Fainihj. — «, Mouse-ear chickweed ; c, Ijouncing bet (soap-wortj,
starry campion, sleepy campion, corn cockle, Arenaria lateriflora, common
chickweed, long-leaved stitch wort, Cerastium nutans, forked chickweed; r,
larger mouse-ear chickweed ; vr, cow-herb, Silene nivea.
Purslane Farnih/. — a, Common purslane; c, spring beauty ; re, Claytonia
Carol iniana.
MalJou: Fa)nili/. — a, Common mallow (low mallow, cheese mallow); c, sida
(spinosa), velvet-leaf (Indian mallow), bladder ketmia (flower of an hour); /■/■,
high mallow, Callirrhoe, glade mallow, hallierd-leaved rose mallow.
Linden Faniihj. — r, Bass-wood (lin. )
Flax Faniihj. — r, Linum sulcatum; rr, Linum Virginianum.
Geranium Fantih/. — c, Yellow wood-sorrel; e, wild cranesbill (spotted gera-
nium), Carolina cranesbill, pale and .spotted touch-me-not, violet wood-sorrel :
'■/', false mermaid.
Rue Family. — ;•, Northern prickly ash, hop-tree (shrub trefoil).
Cashew Family. — o. Smooth sumac; r, poison ivy; rr, dwarf sumac, fra-
grant sumac (possibly).
Vine Family. — a, Virginia creeper; <■, winter grape (frost grape) ; rr, sum-
mer grape (r at Canton landing, and Vitis riparia may be common along the
river).
Buckthorn Family. — e. New Jersey tea (red-root); rr, Rhamnus lanceolatus
and alnifolius.
Staff-tree Family. — r, Climbing bittersweet (wax-work), waahoo i burning-
bush).
Soap-berry Family. — a, White maple (silver or soft maple) ; e, Ohio buckeye
(fcetid buckeye), sugar maple (rock or hard maple), box elder (ash-leaved
maple ) ; /•, American bladder-nut.
Milkirort Family. — e, Polygala verticillata; /■, Polygala sanguinea, Seneca
snakeroot; rr, Polygala incarnata, amlngua and polygama.
False Family. — a. White clover; r, red clover. Astragalus Canadensis, tick
trefoil (four species, viz : Desmodium acuminatum, nudiflorum, Canadense
and sessilifolium), Lespedeza violacea and capitata (bush clover), marsh
vetchling. Phaseolus diver.sifolius, hog peanut (wild pea-vinej, false or wild
indigo (i?aptisia leucantha), Baptisia leucophoea, red-bud (Judas tree), par-
tridge pea, honey locust (three-thorned acacia); /■, rattle-box, prairie clover
(two species), false indigo (Amorpha fruticosa), lead plant, goat's rue, tick
trefoil (four species, viz: Desmodium canescens, cuspidatum, paniculatum,
Illinoense), Vicia Americana, ground-nut (wild bean), Phaseolus helvolus and
pauciflorus, wild senna, Kentucky coflee-tree (coffee-bean); /y, stone clover
(rabbit foot), buffalo clover, running buffalo clover, yellow melilot (yellow
sweet clover), sweet clover (white sweet clover, white melilot i, Psoralea ono-
brychis and floribunda, tick trefoil (four species, viz: Desmodium pauciflo-
rum, Dillenii, ciliare and Marilandicumj, wild sensitive plant, Desmanthus
brachylobus.
Rose Family. — a, Wild black cherry, common cinquefoil (five-linger), straw-
berry, common or high blackberry; c, wild yellow or retl plum, agrimony,
Geum all)um (avens), Potentilla Norvegica and arguta, black raspberry (thim-
l)le-berry), dwai'f wild rose, early wild rose, scarlet-fruited thorn, Ijlack thorn
(pear thorn, red haw — two varieties), cockspur thorn, crab-apple; /■, choke
cherry, nine-bark, meadow sweet, small-flowered agrimony, Geum strictum,
dewberry (low blackberry), swamp rose; rr, queen of the prairie, goat's-beard,
American ipecac, Canadian burnet, Geum Virginianum and vernum, Fragaria
vesca (a strawberry), prairie rose, climbing ro.se, shad-busli (service or June
berry) .
Sa.rifraae Family. — c. Gooseberry (Ribes Cynosbati and rotundifolium),
swamp saxifrage, alum root; rr, wild black currant (and red currant?), wild
liydrangea, Parnas.sia Caroliniana (grass of Parnassus i, mitre- wort (l)ishop's
cap).
Orpine Fahiily.— e, Ditch (or Virginia) stone-crop.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 27o
WIfch Ilnzil FamUii. — '■/', Witch hazel.
]V<ili'r-Milfnil /•Vni/iiV//.— /•, MyriophyHum verticillutum ; rr. M. heterophyl-
lum and scabratum, mermaid weed, mare's-tail.
Eirn'mg rriinrnxr FrDnllii. — r, Enchanter's nightshade, Epilobium coloratum,
evening primroi^e, Ludwigia jiolycarpa, water purslane; r, gaura (biennis),
Epilobium palustre, var: lineare, E. molle, OEnothera rhombipetala, sun-drops,
seed-box.
Melastomn Famih/.~rr, Meadow beauty (deer grass).
LooHf^trifc Faui'ifij. — c, Lythrum alatnni (loosestrife); *•, Amnuinnia latifolia.
clammy cnphea; ry,' Ammaimia humilis and Nuttallii, swamp loosestrife.
ho(ti<i( Faiiiih/. — '■/'. Mentzelia oligosi)erma.
Gdiird Fniiiili/.— (;Wi\d balsam-apple (wild cucumber); c, one-seeded star
cucumber.
Pdrdeij Fmnihi. — c, Rattlesnake master (button snakeroot); parsnip (garden),
Thaspium aureum, spotted cowbane (water hemlock, poison hemlock, beaver
poison, musquash root), water parsnip (Slum lineare), honewort, chervil; /•,
black snakeroot (sanicle), Sanicula Marihindica, cow parsnip, Cicuta bulbifera,
smoother and hairy sweet cicely, harbinger of si)ring (pepper-and-salt); n\
Polyta-nia Nuttallii, cowbane, great angelica, Thaspium barbinode (a meadow
parsnip), Thaspium trifoliatum, Zizia integerrinla, water parsnip (Sium angus-
tifoHum), poison hendock (?Conium luaculatum), Eulophus Americanus.
(,'iiisi'iKj Finiiihi. — c, Spikenard; r, wild sarsaparilla and ginseng.
ftiiijiriiixl Fnuiilii. — c, Silky cornel (kinnikinnik), rough-leaved dogwood,
panicled, cornel (the common "dogwood): r, red osier dogwood, alternatedeaved
cornel ; rv, flowering dogwood.
Honciisnckir Fdmilji. — '/, Elder; c, yellow honeysuckle, fever-wort (horse
gentian), sheepberry ; v, small honeysuckle; '/•, black haw, arrow-wood.
Mddihr F<iniiJii.--i\ Cleavers (goose-grass), (Talium concinnuin, small bed-
straw, sweet-scented bedstraw, wild liquorice [liquorice root), Ijutton-bush ; c,
Galium pilosum, button-weed, Diodia teres (a button-weed).
Vnln-idii Fmnihi. — c, Fedia radiata.
CiWijxjxit/' F'linlh/. — <i, Boneset ithoroughwort), Aster miser (starved aster
— WikkJ), horse-weed (butter-weed), hog-weed (rag-weed, bitter-weed, Roman
wormwood), beggar-ticks (Spanish needles), sneezeweed, May-weed (dog-fen-
nel), yarrow (milfoil), common thistle, burdock, dandelion; '■, Liatris cylin-
dracea, pycnostachya and scariosa, Kuhnia eupatorioides, Eupatorium sero-
tinum, white snakerf)ot. Aster sericeus, Ifevis, azurens, undulatus, sagittifolius
larrow-leaveil aster — Tl'oo'/), multitlorus, dumosus, Tradescanti, simplex, car-
nens, oblongifolins, Nova- AnglicC, Rolnn's plantain, common fleabane, daisy
fieabane (sweet scabious), daisy fleabane (Erigeron strigosum), Diplopappus
linariifolius, Boltonia glastifolia, golden-rods — Solidago latifolia, rigida, ulmifo-
lia, Missouriensis, Canadensis, serotina, lanceolata, compass plant (polar plant,
rosin-weed), Silphium integrifolium, cup-plant, Parthenium integrifolium,
great ragweed, cockle-bur (clot-bur), ox-eye, purple conetiower (two species —
F'A'hinacea purpurea and angustifolia), cone Hower(five species, — Rudbeckia
laciniata, snl)tomentosa, triloba, speciosa and hirtai, Lepachys pinnata, Heli-
anthus rigidus, occidentalis, grosse-serratus, struinosus, and doronicoides,
Coreopsis palmata, tall coreopsis, swamp beggar-ticks, larger bur marigold,
fetid marigoM (false dog-fennel), biennial wormwood, plantain-leaved ever-
lasting, fire-weed, Cirsium discolor and altissimum, false lettuce (blue lettuce,
three sj'ecies, viz: Mulgedium acuminatum, Floridanum and leucoph;eum, com-
mon sow-thistle, spiny-leaved sow-thistle; /•, iron-weed (Vernonia Novebora-
censis and fasciculata), blazing star (Lititris squarrosa, button snakeroot),
trumpet-weed (Joe-Pye weed), Eupatorium altissimum, upland boneset, mist-
flower. Aster Drummoniiii, cordifolius, ericoides, tenuifolius, testivus, longifo-
lius, Erigeron divaricatum, Diplopappus umbellatus, golden-rods — Solidago
speciosa, Ohioensis, Riddelii, neglecta, altissima, neinoralis, radula, gigantea
and tenuifolia, Chrysopsis villosa. Ambrosia bidentata and psylostachya,
FCclipta procumbens, wild sunflowers — Helianthus divaricatus, giganteus, de-
capetalus, Actinomeris squarrosa and helianthoides. Coreopsis lanceolata and
aristosa, smaller bur marigold, Leptopoda brachypoda, tansy, Artemisia cau-
data, western mugwort, everlasting, purplish cudweed, pale Indian plantain,
tuberous Indian plantain, golden ragwort (squaw-weed): swamp-thistle, Cyn-
27(i HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
thia (Virginica), rattlesnake root (white lettuce, Nabalus al])us), Nabalus race-
mosns and crepidineus, wild lettuce (two varieties); rr, Aster corymbosus,
turliinellus, Shortii, puniceus, prenanthoides, amethystinus, anomalus and
ptarmicoides, golden-rods — Solidago ctesia, patula and arguta, prairie dock,
wild sunfiowers — Helianthus Ipetiflorus, mollis, hirsutus and tracheliifolius.
Coreopsis lanceolata, tickseed sunflower, Coreopis discoidea, Cacalia suaveo-
lens (an Indian plantain), great Indian plantain, pasture thistle, Canada this-
tle, dwarf dandelion, Troximon cuspidatum, rough hawkweed, hairy hawk-
weed, Nabalus asper.
Lohdiii Fdiiiih/. — c, Cardinal flower, great lobelia, Indian tobacco (the medi-
cal lobelia), Lobelia spicata; rr, Lobelia leptostachys and Kalmii.
CanipanuJn F(i)iilli/ ( BeHirortt^). — r, Venus's looking-glass ; /', harebell, nuirsh
l)ellflo\ver, tall bellflower.
Ili'dtlt F((nil/i/. — r, Indian pipe (corpse plant); rr, low blueberry, bearberry.
Holh/ FdiiiUi/. — rr, Black alcler ( winterberry).
EhDiiji Fairilln. — r, Persimmon.
Fliinfiiiii Fdirilhi. — r(, Common plantain; *r, Plantago sparsiflora, cordata,
Virginica and pusilla.
Primrose Fiunili/. — c Lysimachia ciliata and lanceolata; r, Androsace occi-
dentalis, American cowslip (shooting star), Lysimachia longifolia, chaff-weed,
water pin\pernel (brook-weed); rr, tufted loosestrife.
BIdddrrirort FainUii. — c, Great bladderwort; r, Utricularia intermedia.
Bi(/iio)ii(( Ffurillj/. — (', Trumpet creeper, unicorn plant.
Hrooiu-rape F\imih/. — /', One-flowered cancer-root.
Figirort Family. — c, Mullein, toad-flax (butter-and-eggs, ramsted), figwort,
Gratioia Virginica (a hedge hyssop), false pimpernel, Culver's root (or physic),
purslane speedwell, purple Gerardia, slender Gerardia, Gerardia pedicularia,
lousewort (wood betony), Pedicularis laceolata ; /•, beard-tongue (Pentstemon
pubescens), monkey flower, Conobea multifida, Herpestis rotundifolia, corn
speedwell, downy false foxglove, smooth false foxglove, Gerardia integrifolia,
grandiflora and auriculata, scarlet ]iainted-cup ; rr, moth mullein, wild toad-
flax, innocence (Collinsia verna), turtle-head (snake-head), Pentstemon Digi-
talis, Miinulus alatus and Jamesii, Gratiola spbaerocarpa, Synthyris Plough-
toniana, water speedwell, American brook-lime, marsh speedwell, thyme-
leaved speedwell, mullein foxglove, Gerardia aspera and setacea.
Amutliiis Fdmili/. — /•, Ruellia ciliosa and strepens, Dianthera Americana.
TVyvr//» Fdniihi.—((,'H.oary vervain, white, or nettled-leaved vervain ; c, blue
vervain. Verbena liracteosa, fog-fruit; /■, Verbena angustifolia, lopseed.
Mini Fdmih/.—d, Wild bergamot (horsemint), catnip, ground ivy (gill over
the ground), self-heal (heal-all), motherwort; c, wood sage (American ger-
mander, false pennyroyal, wild mint (often taken for peppermint), bugle-weed,
Lycopus Europa'us, var. sinuatus, Pycnanthemum lanceolatum (a mountain
mint, basil), American pennyroyal, giant hyssop, Lophanthus scrophularia'fo-
lius, skullcaps— Scutellaria versicolor, parvula and mad-dog skullcap, hedge
nettle (Stachys palustris, var. asi)era); r, Lycopus Europa'us, var. integrifo-
lius, mountain mint (Pycnanthemum incanumand pilosum, Hedeoma hispida,
Monarda Bradburiana, horsemint (Monarda punctata), Blephilia ciliata and
hirsuta, false dragon-head, skullcap (Scutellaria canescens and nervosa),
Stachys palustris, var. glabra (a hedge nettle); rr, bastard pennyroyal, spear-
mint, peppermint, Pycnanthemum linifolium (mountain mint), Scutellaria
galericulata (a skullcap), horehound, Stachys palustris, var. cordata (a hedge-
nettle).
HurcKje Fdinilij. — c, Lithospermum'latifolium, hairy jiuccoon, hoary puccoon
(alkanet), smooth lungwori (Virginian cowslip), Myosotis verna, stickseed,
hound's-tongue, l)eggar's-lice ; r, Onosmodium, Carolinanum and molle; rr,
comfrey (escaped from gardens), Lithospermum angustifolium.
Wdfrr-leqf Famili/. — c, Hydrophyllum Virginicum and appendiculatum,
EUisia (Nyctelea); rr, Hydrophyllum Canadense.
Fdlrm'niiiKvi (or Plilo.r) Fdiiiili/. — r. Phlox pilosa and divaricata; /■, Greek
valerian. Phlox paniculata and glaberrima ; 't, wild sweet William, Phlox
bifida. (All the Phloxes have been called sweet William).
ConmlviUm Fn.mili/. — c. Smaller morning-glory, hedge bindweed, dodder
(Cuscuta Gronovii, love-vine, and C. glomerata); r, Iponuea lacunosa, wild
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 277
potatoe vine (man of the earth), Calyistegia si:»itham?ea, dodder — Cnscuta tenui-
flora, infiexa, decora, arvensis, chlorocarpa and conipat'ta.
XightalKidi' Fdmih/. — c, Common nightshade (black nightsliade), horse
nettle, ground ground cherry, Physalis viscosa, jimson-weed (Jamestown-weed,
thorn-apple, stramonium) purple thorn-apple; /■, Physalis Philadelphica ; vr,
bittersweet (escaped from cultivation.)
(icnthni Familif. — r, American Columbo, fringed gentian, closed gentian,
Gentiana puberula; //■, Sabbatia angularis (American centaury), five-flowered
gentian, buck-bean.
Dogbane Faniihj. — c, Amsonia tabernsemontana, spreading dogbane ; /•,
Indian hemp. ^
Milkiri'cd ludiilh/. — ((, Silkweed (milkweed); c, swamp milkweed, butterfly-
weed (i)ieurisy root) whorled milkweed, Acerates viridiflora and longifolia
(green milkweeds); r, Asclepias SuUivantii, poke milkweed, purjjle milkweed,
Asclepias obtusifolia and paniculata, Enslenia albida; rr, Asclepias perennis
and Meadii.
Olire Fiuiiibj. — c, White ash, black, swamp or water ash; r, red ash, green
ash, blue ash.
Birthirod Family. — e, Wild ginger; /•, Virginia snakeroot.
Foil r-o' dork FarinJy. — Oxyljaphus nyctagineus.
Foh'weed FamlJi/.^c, Poke (scoke, garget, pigeonberry).
(roo^efoot FamiJi/. — a, Lamb's-quarters (pigweed); c (in villages), atriplex
patula (orache); r, maple-leaved goosefoot, Jerusalem oak (feather geranium)
Mexican tea, wormseed, strawberry blite; '*• (if occurring at all), winged pig-
weed, Ghenopodium urbicum.
Atuarauth Faniih/. — a, Green amaranth (pigweed); r, white pigweed (tum-
ble-weed); /•, Acnida tamariscina; cr, prince's-feather (escaped from gardens),
thorny amaranth, Froelichia Floridana.
Hiifkichedf {or Kiiofwced) Faiiiili/. — a, Sraartweed (water-pepper), water
smartweed, knot-grass (goose-grass, door-weed — two varieties — in door-yards),
black bindweed, curled or yellow dock; c, Polygonum Pennsylvanicum and
incarnatum, mild water-pepper, water Persicaria, climbing false buckwheat,
swamp dock; /■, prince's feather (spontaneous about gardens), Polygonum
ramosissimum and tenue, arrow-leaved tear-thumb, pale dock, bitter dock,
sheep sorrel (field sorrel); rr, lady's thumb, Polygonum Virginianum, great
water dock.
La inrl Faniih/. — '/, Sassafras; '/•, spice-bush (Benjamin bush).
Mrzrrnim Faivily. — ir (if at all), Leatherwood, mooseAvood.
Saitilal-irood Faniili/. — /', Bastard toad-flax.
fjizariVii-tail Faniih/. — 't, Lizard's-tail.
flornivort Family. — /•, Hornwort.
Watcr-Starirort Family.- — Callitriche verna and autumnaiis.
Spiiryr Family. — a, Euphorbia maculata (spotted spurge), three-seeded
mercury; c, Euphorbia hypericifolia and corollata; /•, Euphorbia humistrata,
dentata, heterophylla and obtusata, croton (glandulosus), Phyllanthus Cana-
densis; '/■, Euphorbia serpens, Kelioscopia and Cyparissias (escaped from gar-
dens).
Nt'ttlr Family. — a, White elm, wood nettle, richweed (clearweed); r, slip-
pery elm (red elm), hackberry (sugarberry), red mulberry, nettle, hemp, hop;
/•, false nettle, pellitory ; /•/•, corky white elm, T^rtica ilioica.
f'lanr-trrr Family. — r, Sycamore (button wooil).
Wahiiil Family. — c, Butternut, l)lack walnut, pecan, shell- (or shag-) bark
hickory, mockernut, (or white-heart hickory), pignut, or broom hickory, bit-
ternut, or swamp hickory; /-, western shag-bark hickory.
Oak Family. — a, White oak, bur oak (over-cup or mossy-cup white oak),
hazelnut (filbert) ; r, laurel oak (shingle oak), black jack (barren oak), scarlet
oak, black oak (yellow-barked oak, (luercitron), red oak, American hop-horn-
beam (ironwood) ; ;•, post oak (rough or box white oak), swamp white oak,
chestnut oak, yellow chestnut oak, swamp Spanish oak (pin oak), ironwood
(American hornbeam, blue or water beech).
Birch Family. — c. Red birch (river brich) ; rr, smooth alder.
Willoir Family. — a, Prairie willow, black willow, cotton-wood (two si)ecies?)
c, glaucous willow, heart-leaved willow, shining willow, long-leaved willow,
278 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Americau aspen (quaking-asp) ; /•, petioled wi]]oT\". large-toothed aspen ; n-.
hoary willow, silkly willow, Salix amygdaloi'les, myrtle willow.
Pirn Family. — '/•, Red cedar (savini.
Arum Fnm'ihi. — a, Indian turnip (Jack-in-the-pulpit) : ;■, green dragon
(dragon root), skunk cabbage, sweet flag (calamus i; 't, arrow arum.
Dijcl-irfied Famllif. — /•, Lemna trisulca, minor and polyrrhiza, Wolffia Co-
1 umbiana.
Cat-t(iU Family. — c. Cat-fail (reed rnace),Sparganium eurycarpum (bur-reed).
PoiHl-nrfid Family. — '■, Potamoget'on natans, pusillus and pectinatus; <■,
Naias tlexilis, Potamogeton Claytonii. hybridus, gramineus and pauciflorns;
»■/•, horned pond-weed, Potamogeton pulcher and compressus.
Water-Pjant'tin Family.— o, Water plantain, arrow-head (Sagittaria varia-
bilis) ; c, Sagittaria heterophjdla, Echinodorus rostratus ; rr, Sagittaria caly-
cina and graminea, arrow grass, Scheuchzeria.
Fii>rj\t-hit Family. — r\ Water-weed; /•. tape-grass (eel-grass).
Orchid Family. — /■, Rein orchis ^ Habenaria virescens), Calopogon pulchel-
lus, adder's-mouth, twayblade (Liparis liliifolia and Loeselii), larger yellow
lady's slipper; 't, showy orchis, coral-root, putty-root (Adam and Eve), small
white lady's slipper, smaller yeliow lady's slipper, showy lady's slipper.
Amarylliii Family. — c. Star-grass.
Blofxiiioit Family. — r. Colic-root (star-grass).
Iris Family. — r; Larger blue flag, blue-eyed grass.
Yam Family. — r, Wild yam (root).
Smila.r Family. — r. Carrion-flower; /•, greenbrier, Smilax hispida.
Lily Family. — r, Trillium 'recurvatum); (\ false spikenard. Solomon's .seal
(great and smaller), wild leek, wild garlic, bellwort (Uvularia grandiflora); /•,
bell wort i Uvularia perfoliatai; Smilacina stellata (and probably one or two
other species, rare), wild orange-re<l lily, white dog's-tooth violet, eastern
quamash (wild hyacinth), Allium striatum; n-, purple trillium (birth-root),
dwarf white trillium, bunch flower, wild yellow lily, Turk's-cap lily, wild
onion.
Riixh Family.— a. Juncus tenuis (bog rush); c, .Tuncus acumiuatus, vars.
legitimus and robustus; *■, .Juncus nodosus, var. megacephalus; n-, common,
or soft rush, .Juncus marginatus and brachycarpus.
Piclrrrl-ireerl Family. — /•, Water star-grass; '/•, pickerel- weed.
Spidrrnort Family. — ^, Spiderwort: /■, day-flower (('ommelyna Virginica),
Tradescantia pilosa.
Srdy< Family.— a. Great bulrush, Carex straminea and vulpinoidea : r-, Cy-
perus diandrus, inflexus. strigosus, Dulichium spathaceum, Eleocharis obtu.s^a
(a spike rush), palustri \ tenuis, acicularis, river ciul>rush, Scirpus atrovirens,
lineatus, Carex stipata, arida, scoparia, lagopodioides, cristata, aperta, stricta.
granularis, grisea, laxiflora, Pennsylvanica, i)ubescens, lanuginosa, hystricina.
Grayii, lupulina, sfpiarrosa. utriculata ; /■, Cyperus erythrorhizos, phymatodes,
Miciiauxianus, Engelmanni, .Schweinitzii, flliculmis, ovularis, Hemicarpha
subsquarrosa, Eleocharis Woltii, compres.sa, intermedia, Scirpus pungens (a
bulrush or club-rush), FimV»ristyli.'< autumnalis, Rhyncospora alba, nut rush
(Scleria triglomerata), Carex Steudelii, siccata, disticha, teretiuscula, crus-
corvi, sparganioides, cephalophora, rosea, .<terilis, stellulata, limosa, Shortiana,
panicea var. Meadii, tetanica, Davisii, virescens, triceps, digitalis, oligocarpa,
Hitchcockiana, varia, riparia, trichocarpa, comosa, tentaculata, lupuliformis;
'■/•, Fimbristylis spadicea var. castanea, Carex polytrichoides, conjuncta,
cephaloidea, Muhlenbergii, crinita, Buxbaumii, conoidea, umbellata, Richard-
.sonii, intumescens, monile, buUata and longirostris-
GrasK Family. — <^', Timothy, blue grass (Kentucky blue grass, etc. i, crab
grass (finger-grass), old-witch grass, barnyard grass, foxtail (Setaria glauca); c,
white grass, rice cut grass, Indian rice (water oats), floating foxtail, rush grass
( Vilfa aspera and vagina-florai, hair grass, red-top, wood reed-grass, dropseed
Muhlenbergia Mexicana and diffusa, blue joint grass, porcupine grass, fresh-
water cord-grass, Koeleria cristata. fowl-meadow grass, Glyceria fluitans, low
spear grass, (Poa annua i, wire gra.ss (Poa compressai, Eragrostis reptans, pilo-
sa, Frankii, fescue (Festuca tenella), Festuca nutans, chess (cheat), Br omus
ciliatus, reed, wild rye (lyme grass, Elymus Virginicus), Elymus Canadensis
and var. glaucifolius, bottle-brush grass, reed canary grass, Panicum glabrum.
.r%^v
l^p^'SsiSJv.n 1 :
J
W'
%.
\
V 'i^^i.f:
. i
r^
7/?^^^?<y\-
TABLE GROVE
HIriTOKY OF FLLTOX COUNTY,
281
virgatum, pauciflorum, difhotomum and depauperatum, green foxtail (bottle
grass) beard grass, Andropogon scoparius, Indian grass (wood grass); r, fiy-
cateh grass, meadow foxtail, Vilfa Virginica, dropseed grass (Sporobolus hete-
rolepis and eryptandrus), thin grass, dropseed (nimble will, Muhlenbergia
sobolifera, gloinerata, sylvatica and Wildenovii), Brachyelytrum aristatum,
poverty grass, Aristida oligantha, purpurascens and tuberculosa, muskit
grass, Bouteloua curtipendula, dog's-tail (wire grass: about yards), sand grass,
Diarrhena Americana, Eatonia obtusata and Pennsylvanica, melic grass, false
red-top (fowl-meadow grass, Poa serotina), Poa sylvestris, Poa alsodes, Era-
grostis poieoides and var. megastaehya, Eragrostis capillaris, pectinacea (and
var. speetabilis), wild chesE, Lepturus paniculatus, Hordeuni pratense, wild
oat grass, velvet grass, Paspalum setaceum, Panicum filiforme, anceps, agros-
toides, proliferum, latifolium elandestinum, Setarla verticillata, gama grass; lu;
white bent grass (florin), Calamagrostis longifolius, mountain rice (Oryzopsis
melanocarpa), Aristida gracilis, tall red-top, Eragrostis tenuis, taller (or mead-
ow) fescue, upright chess, squirrel tail, Elymus striatus.
Horsetail Famibj. — a, Scouring rush (shave grass); c, common horsetail;
r, Equisetum limosum, hi'vigatum and variegatum.
i'Ve/Ks' — c. Maiden hair, ])rake, Asplenium Filix-fcemina, Cystopheris fra-
gilis, sensitive fern, Osmuuda Claytoniana ; /•, polypody, shield or wood ferns —
Aspidium Thelypteris and Goldianuni, moonwort (Botrychium Virginicuni) ;
/>;■, lip fern (Cheilanthes lanuginosa), beech fern, shield or wood ferns— Aspid-
ium spinulosum and acrostichoides, royal flowering fern.
Clvlt-Miixx Family. — rr, Selaginella rupestris and apus.
Ifi/dfiijtlcridcs. — (T, Azolla Caroliniana.
18
CHAPTER VIL
IMPORTANT LABORS OF THE BOARD OF SUPERVISORS.
COUNTY COUKT.
In 1847 a State election was held for members of the Constitu-
tional Convention, which Convention prepared and submitted to the
people a new constitution, which was adoj^ted by a large majority.
By this constitution, in place of the Commissioners' Court a County
Court was organized in each county. This Court consisted of a
County Judge, and, if the Legislature saw proper to so order it, two
Associate Justices. This the Legislature favorably acted upon.
The last meeting of the County Commissioners' Court was held
Nov, 7, 1849. After the transaction of such business as properly
came before them, they adjourned until court in course, but never
re-assembled.
On the 3d of December of the same year the first regular term
of the County Court was held. The duties of the Court in a legis-
lative capacity were precisely tiie same as those of the County Com-
missioners' Court. In addition to the legislative power the mem-
bers of this Court were permitted to exercise judicial authority,
having all the rights and ])rivileges of justices of the peace, together
with all probate business. This Court consisted of a County Judge
and two Associate Justices. The Judge and Associate Justices acted
together for the transaction of all county business, but none other.
The Justices had an ecjual vote with the Judge, and received the
same salary while holding court, which was ^'2 per day. Two of
the three constituted a quorum.
Erasmus D. Rice was chosen the first County Judge, being
elected Nov. 6, 1849, — the first November election held. The first
Associate Justices were Parley C. Stearns and Jesse Benton. Dur-
ing the existence of this Court the people were agitating the ques-
tion of township organization. Many counties of the State, since
the new constitution, had adopted that mode of conducting county
affairs. The constitution gave counties the privilege of adopting
either the County Court or the Board of Supervisors. At the fall
election in 1849 a vote was taken '' for " or "against" township
organization, which resulted in favor of the new measure.
The following is an abstract of the vote upon this question at
that time :
HISTORY OF P^ULTON COUNTY. 283
PRECINCTS. ' FOR. .A.i;AINST. PRECINCTS. FOE .»';;.
Astoria 89 ... Point Isabel 6] 1
Vermont 170 18 Waterford 44
Farmer's 110 ... Lewistown 156 10
Marietta 41 ... Centerville 7:'>
St. Augustine 49 ... Mill Creek 80
Otter Creek 48 2 Fairview 75
Howard's 62 6 Liverpool 78 7
Bernadotte 99 1 Buckheart 69 8
Spoon River .33 13 Canton 353 12
48
2
62
6
99
1
33
13
57
4
55
4
48
o
Wiley 57 4 Farmington 177
Ellisville 55 4 Utica 95
Boyd 48 ... Copperas Creek 44
West Point 33 2 Independence 59
Total 2,258 93
For some reason not given the vote of Boyd precinct was thrown
out.
The measure being carried, Hugh I^amaster, Henry Walker and
John Bloomfield were appointed by the Court to divide the county
into townships. This duty was performed in the early part of 1850.
They divided the county into twenty-six townships, the number that
still exist, but the names given to some were different from those
they now bear. For instance, the present township of Putnian Avas
christened Center. Banner was named Utica, and Young Hickory,
Hickory.
Many citizens of the county were strongly opposed to the town-
ship system, and a petition was circulated in 1852, to call an elec-
tion upon the question of repealing the township organization and
taking up their old way of running the county. The question was
voted upon in April of that year and defeated by 1,630 majority.
The building of a fire-proof structure for County and Circuit
C^lerks' offices was agitated about the time the County Court came into
power. Feb. 12, 1850, the Court appointed Henry Walker and
Edwin Littlefield to make a draft for this building. It was then
ordered that contracts be let for its construction. This was done
March 8, 1850, and was awarded to John Tompkins.
The County Court had but a short existence, as the county early
in 1850 was organized under the township-organization law.
TOWNSHIP ORGANIZATION.
This system of county government is so entirely different in
origin and management from the old mode by County Commission-
ers, which had such a long and favorable run, that we deem a brief
synopsis of the differences quite pertinent in this connection.
Elijah M. Haines, in his " Laws of Illinois Eelative to Town-
shi]) Organization," says the county system " originated with Vir-
ginia, whose early settlers soon became large landed proprietors,
aristocratic in feeling, living alone in almost baronial magnificence
on their own estates, and owning the laboring part of the popula-
tion. Thus the materials for a town were not at hand, the voters
2S4 iii.sT(ji;v <»F I ri/i()N col-nty.
being thinly tlistrihiited over a great area. The eounty organization,
where a few influential men managed the whole business of the
eommunity, retaining tlieir jilaees almost at their ]»leasnre, seareelv
re:?I)onsil)le at all exeept in name, ami permitted to eonduet the
county concerns as their ideas or wishes might direct, was, more-
over, consonant with tlieir recolleeti<tns or traditions of the judicial
and social dignities of the landed aristocracy of England, in descent
fntm wiiich the Virginia gentlemen felt so much j)ri<le. In IT.'M
eight counties were organi/A'd in Virginia, and the system extending
throughout the State, spread in all the Southern States and some of
the Northern States, unless we except the nearly similar division
into 'districts' in South Carolina, and that into 'parishes' in Louisi-
ana from the French laws.
" Illinois, which with its vast additional territory became a county
of Virginia on its conquest by Gen. George Rogers Clark, retained
the countv oruanization, which was formerlv extended over the
State l)y the constitution of 1818, and continued in exclusive use
until the constitution of 1848. Under this system, as in other
States adopting it, most local Inisiness Avas transacted by three com-
missioners in each county, who constituted a County Court, with
(juarterly sessions. During the period ending with th.e Constitu-
tional Convention of 1847, a large })ortion of the State had become
filled up with a po]ndation of Xew England i)irth or character, daily
growing more and more compact and dissatisfied with the comj)ara-
tively arbitrary and inefficient county system." It was maintained
by the people that the heavily ]Ki]iulated districts would alwavs con-
trol the election of the Commissioners to the disadvanta<re of th(>
more thinly j)opulated sections, — in short, that under the system
"e(jual and exact justice " to all parts of the i-ftunty could not be
secured. The townshij) system had its origin in Massachusetts, and
dates back to Kl.'*').
De Toc(pieville, in his work entitled "American Institutions," in
speaking of our political system, very j)roperly remarks that two
branches may be distinguished in the Anglo--Vmeriean family which
have grown uj> witiiout entirclv commingling, — the one in the South,
the other in the North. He discovers the causes whit-h led to this
conditiitn of things, which are apparent to the most casual observer.
"They arise," he says, " not from design, but from the force of cir-
cumstances at the betrinniu"'. The plantinir of the oriirinal colonv
of \'irginia at Jainestown luid for its design the single and naked
object of j>ecuniarv jirofit to the proprietors. Its mission inv<dyed
no princi]>le for the benefit of mankind. It recognized the crown
of (ireat Britain, from whence it derived the charter of its existence,
as the source of j)olitical power. There was no recognition of the
jtrinciple (tf self-govennnent.
" Rut the circumstances attending the first settlement of the Col-
<»nies of Xew England, so called, were of an entirely different char-
acter. The earlv colonists in this instance were non-conformists, or
HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY. 28o
dissenters from the Church of P^ngland. They came as exiles, flee-
ing from the wrath of ecclesiastical tyranny, whose displeasure they
had incurred, — cast out as public offenders, ' as profane out of the
mountain of God.' Whilst the colonists of Virginia came with the
law, those of New England came against the law, or perhaps, more
properly speaking, without law. Thereupon arose on the part of
the latter a positive necessity for the establishment of law for their
mutual protection. The result was a written compact, — this being
the first written constitution extant, based upon the general good.
It was the first time since the 'morning stars sang together' that
the people themselves met in council and framed a government
based upon ctpial rights."
The supervisor is the chief officer and representative of the town-
ship, and it is his duty to prosecute and defend all suits in which
the township is interested. The township clerk keeps the records
of the township, and the treasurer takes charge of the funds. The
establishment, vacation and repair of the public roads is conuuitted
to the three commissioners of highways. The supervisor, the two
justices of the peace whose terms of office soonest expire, and the
township clerk constitute a township board for examining and audit-
ing the accounts of the town.
Since 1H~() the business afliurs of the county have been under
the guidance of a Board of Supervisors, at present composed of 27
members. It would be unprofitable, as unnecessary, to present in
detail the numerous orders, rcj^orts, resolutions, etc., of this body.
Their proceedings partake a great deal of the nature of a legislature.
Among so many men there are always some cool business lieads, as
well as a good many glib tongues. Some of them are practical, in-
dustrious workers, others are of the buncombe order, always ready
to make a s])eech or a volumiiu)us report. This has always been
the case with such assemblies, and we suppose always will be.
June 10, 1850, the Board of Su[icrvisors of Fulton c(»unty first
assembled. There were present with their proper credentials the
following gentlemen : George Bandbrd, Jesse Smith, (Jeorgc An-
derson, N. Walker, Jacob Mans, Jacob Hand, Levi II. Jiradbury,
Joel Piersol, Xathaniel Veatch, J. H. Martin, John L. Jenkins,
11. L. Hyatt, A. G. Downing, Jonas llawalt, J. P. Montgomery,
John Wallick, J. Farris, G. Jones, David Markley, Ira Johnson and
Geo. L. Curtis. David Markley was chosen on the follow ing dav
ti) preside over the assembly.
Nov. 13, 1850, Supervisor Rawalt offi'red the following resolution,
which was prompted by several petitions for saloon licenses being
presented: ''J!<. so/red^ That selling spirituous licpior by the small
in any connnunity is productive of c\il ; aud as a l^oard of Supei'vis-
ors, acting in the (uipacity of agents fi)r the peo])le of Fulton county,
should not grant license for evil to the community for the sake
of county revenue, or for any other purpose." This very important
([uestion was most earnestly discussed, and finallv the resolution
was defeated.
286 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
The subject of building a jail was again brought up Nov. 15,
1850, by Supervisor N. Walker. It was done in a very modest
way, however, for the rebuke the old County Commissioners' Court
received at the polls upon the same subject was fresh in the minds
of everybody. Supervisor Walker's resolution is as follows : '' As
it has been made by law the duty of the Board of Supervisors of
every county in the State to provide a place for keeping in confine-
ment persons charged with violation of the laws of the State, be it
therefore resolved by the Board that in their judgment some action
is necessary and right to be given to the subject of building a good,
substantial jail, in respect to the wants and wishes of the people of
Fulton county." A committee of three — Supervisors Walker,
Rawalt and Bradbury — were appointed to investigate the matter.
A remonstrance was liere presented, containing 527 names, against
the county making any appropriations till a vote could be taken at
the spring election. Nevertheless,* the committee reported favor-
ably upon the subject and recommended the building of a jail, say-
ing that "while they acknowledged the right in the fullest sense of
the word for the people to direct their agents in the performance of
their official duties where those duties rest by a positive rule of law
on mere matters of expediency, yet your committee believe that
they are bound l)y positive enactment in sec. 12, act 14, of the or-
ganization law, to build a jail when necessary ; and your committee
cannot entertain a single doul)t of the necessity of a suitable jail,
nor of the ability of the county to build one without an increase in
the ordinary amount of tax." The contest was Ion": and hot, but
the jail was ordered built. The site of the present prison was
selected and a jail erected 24 feet square, at a cost of $4,214.22.
The task of keeping the poor at the county's farm seemed to be
burdensome and extravagant. Accordingly, in 1851, the poor farm
was ordered sold. L. F. Ross was the purchaser, at $1,425. It
was soon found, however, that the expense of keeping paupers was
much greater under their new mode than when they were kept at
the county farm. So, in September, 1852, it was resolved to buy
a farm and build a suitable house thereon for the accommodation of
the county's unfortunate. In 1854 a farm was purchased within
two miles of Canton, upon which the necessary buildings were
erected, and since then the poor have been provided for there.
The subject of building railroads was agitated as early as 1836;
but upon the explosion of the great internal-improvement system
inaugurated by the State, nothing more was done in this direction
for some years. During the decade between 1850 and 1860, how-
ever, railroads were projected in almost every direction. In 1853
the Board ordered a subscription of $75,000 to be made to the Mis-
sissippi & Wabash Railroad, and to the Petersburg & Springfield
road. As neither of these roads, or others of the jirojected ones,
were built no bonds were issued to them. In 1857, Oct. 15, $100,-
000 in bonds were issued to the J. & S. Railroad, bearing 8 per
HISTORY OF FULTOX rOUNTY. 287
cent, interest. Aug. 10, 1858, a like amount was issued to the
Peoria & Hannibal R. R., and again Oct. 15, 1859, another $100,000
in bonds were given to the same company, bearing 7 per cent,
interest. These lines now constitute the Chicago, Burlington &
Quincy Railroad. Thus we see the county has given $300,000 to
railroad companies, which is the sum total of all subscriptions made
by the county. There are many townships in the county, however,
which have given largely to aid the construction of roads. The
first of these bonds were redeemed in 18(30. Five of them were
bought for $600 each. They fell lower the following year, and the
county called in four, for which they gave $590 each. In 1862
they went still lower and live were purchased for $2,900, or $580
apiece. From that time forward our bonds advanced rapidly in
value, and in 1874 were worth all their face called for. That year
the county paid $3,000 for three of them, and the following year
paid $20,000 for twenty. To date of Sept. 10, 1878, 210 of these
bonds had been redeemed, for which the county paid $196,570.
Ninety of them still remain outstanding. The present vear, how-
ever, provision is made for redeeming fifteen of these, and the re-
maining seventy-five were refunded for a long period with privilege
of redeeming after three years.
The Board let the contract for building the present safe and com-
modious jail structure in February, 1867, to E. Kirkbride and
Jackson Wiley for $28,300. An additional lot was purchased
adjoining the one already owned by the county and upon which the
old jail stood, for $350. The entire building is in height two sto-
ries, with basement. The architectural design is modern, very neat
and well proportioned, presenting as light and cheerful appearance
as a prison well can. The jailor's residence is constructed of red
brick, and the jail part of limestone. In the Sheriffs residence are
eight cheerful rooms, with closets, wardrobes and halls. In the
jail part there is an eight-foot corridor extending from east to west
through the entire south end of the jail. This was once used as a
dining hall. Facing a small corridor on the west side of the build-
ing are eight cells, four below and four above. Three of these on
each tier are about 5x8 feet in size and one 7x8 feet. Fronting east
are four cells. Up-stairs on this side is the women's department,
consisting of two large rooms. The jail is one of the most substan-
tial in this part of the State.
We append here a table of the expenses of carrying on this large
county for a period of six years. The Circuit Clerk, it will be observ-
ed, is of but little or no expense to the county directly. He makes
his own salary from fees charged for services, and not only that, but
turns over to the countv no little revenue.
288
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
COUNTY EXPENDITURES.
1872. 187.3. 1874.
Poor-house and farm $4,200 S4,150 $.3,514
County poor 3,370 3,194 3,435
Criminal 2,2H8 3,8.3S .3,190
Circuit Court 2,773 2,374 4S7
County Court 3,404 3,493 1,732
County Clerk 4,034 4,080 3,465
Circuit Clerk 90 105
Superinten. lent of Schools 1,480 1,404 .368
Board of Superyisors 1,790 1.2S1 1,128
Records and blanks 2,679 2,258 2,042
Public grounds and buildings.. 673 1,093 452
Elections. 1,577 2,758 1,253
Roads and bridges 8,790 2,625 1,024
Ferries 1,929 1,662 1,804
Jurors 2,261 1,584 1,179
Wolf scalps 940 250 820
Miscellany ()3 275 504
Total current expense.^ 42,381 36,319 26,502
Bonds receiyed 28,700 25,000
Intere.st paid 16,994 12,260 11,852
Total paid out 88,075 48,579 63,354
1875.
1876.
1877.
.?5,782
$5,000
$5,229
3,002
4,096
5,197
3,794
4,030
6,269
1.135
3,280
1,086
2,041
2.342
2,181
3,103
3,155
97
440
3,169
384
400
1,300
1.177
1,201
2,092
1,847
1,965
1,589
7.32
511
1,553
1,422
1,125
17,263
4,227
4,379
1,544
1,870
1,518
2,146
2,036
2,127
433
524
513
367
47,252
36,264
37,157
16,000
21,500
15,000
11032
9,605
7,957
74,284 67,369 59,914
CHAPTER VIII.
BLACK HAWK WATJ.
BLACK HAWK (.'ROSSES THE MISSISSIPPI.
In 1831 Black Hawk and his band crossed to their old homes on
Rock river, bnt negotiated a treaty and retnrned to the west side of
the Mississippi, promising never to return. But April 6, 1832, he
again crossed the Mississippi into Illinois with his entire baud. It
was not on a war raid that brought him over in 1832; but as there
is a diversity of opinions in regard to his motives we will briefly
give a few of the most credible. It is claimed that he was invited
by the Prophet to a tract of land about forty miles up Rock river.
()thers say he crossed with no hostile iutentions, but to accej^t an
invitation of a friendly chief, Pit-ta-wak, to spend the summer with
him. Still others, who agree that he did not come to light, say that
when he retired to the Avest side of the Mississippi the previous
year he received a large quantity of corn and other provisions, but
in the spring his provisions were gone, his followers were starving,
and he came back expecting to negotiate another treaty and get a
new supply of provisions.
There is still another explanation, that may enable the reader to
harmonize the preceding statements and to understand why Black
Hawk returned in 1832. It is well kuown that in nearly all the
treaties ever made with the Indians, the Indian traders dictated the
terms for their allies and customers, and of course received a large
share of the annuities, etc., in payment for debts due to them. Each
tribe had certain traders who supplied them. George Davenport
had a trading post at Fort Armstrong. His customers were largely
the Sacs and Foxes, and he was held in high esteem by them ; in
fact his word was law. It is said that Black Hawk's band became
indebted to him for a large amount and were unable to pay. They
did not have good luck hunting during the winter, and he was like-
ly to lose heavily. If IMack Hawk, therefore, could be induced to
come to this side of the river again and the people so greatly alarm-
ed that a military force would be sent in pursuit of him, another
treaty could be made ; he might assist in making terms and get his
pay out of the payments the Government would make, and all
would be well. Mr. Amos Farrar, Avho was Davenport's ])artner
for some years, and who died in Galena during the war, is said to
290 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
have declared, while on iiis death-bed, that tiie " Indians were not
to be blamed ; that if they had been let alone there would have
been no trouble; that the band was owinjj: Mr. Davenjiort and he
wanted to fjet his pay, and would if another treaty iiad been made."
Altliou<»h Black Hawk's movement across the Mississippi was at
onee construed as a iiostile demonstration, and Davenpoit skillfullv
cultivated the idea, he was aecompanied by his old men, women and
children. Xo Indian warrior ever went on the war-path incumbered
in that way. More than this, it does not a]>pear, from the fJth of
April until the battle of >Slillmau's Run on the 12th of ^lay, that a
singula settler was murdered, or suiFered any material injury at the
hands of Black Hawk or his band. In truth, Hon. H. 8. Townsend,
of Warren, Jo Daviess county, states that in one instance, at least,
wlien they took corn from a settler they ])aid him for it. Capt. AV.
B. Green, of Chicajro, writes : " I never heard of lilaek Hawk's
band, while passing up Rock river, eommittinf)' any dejiredations
whatever, not even petty theft." Frederick Stahl, Esq., of Galena,
states that he was informed by the veteran John Dixon that "when
Black Hawk's band passed his post, before the arrival of the troops,
they were at his house. Ne-o-pope had the young braves well in
hand, and informed him that they intended to commit no depreda-
tions, and should not fight unless they were attacked."
We do not wish to upiiold Black Hawk in the depredations he
committed upon the whites. We do, however, desire to record events
inijjartially. AVe believe Black Hawk's motives were greatly mis-
understood, and it is due to his fame as well as to posterity to record
the facts of this war as impartially as it is in our power to do. What-
ever his motives migiit have been, it is the unanimous testimony of
the survivors now residing on the old battle-fields of that day, that
except the violation of treaty stipulations and an arrogance of man-
ner natural to the Indian who wanted to make a new trade with the
"Great Father," the Sacs and Foxes at first committed no serious
acts of hostility, and intended none, until the alternative of war or
extermination was presented to them by the whites.
TROOPS RAISKT).
N(j sooner had volunteers l)eeu calleil for than recruitinu' beuan in
Fulton county. Gen. Stillman began to muster his men at Cantor,
and ere long was off" to the seat of war. Ca})t. D. W. Barnes
raised and commanded one company; ('aj)t:iin Asa F. Ball another.
Asa Langsford was First Lieutenant of the former eomj)anv and
Thomas Clark Second Lieutenant. These men furnished tiieir own
horses and j)rovisions. They moved to Peoria, which was to be a
rendezvous for troo])s. Here they remained for ten days, and one
old silver-haired veteran tells us he had as fine a time there as he
ever has had in his life. There they found Stephen Stillman, a
brother of Major Stillman, who kej)! a "tavern" and consequently
had plenty of" lieker." Stephen was a soldier of the war of 1812 and
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 291
had lost one leg, hut had provided himself with a wooden one, which
answered this jovial tavern-keeper very well. He was liberal with
his whisky to the boys, and all they had to do for ten days was to
take care of their horses and have a jolly good time drinking Still-
man's whisky, and now and then, merely to break the monotony,
have a fight. When the ten days had passed they were joined by com-
panies from McLean, Peoria and Ta/ewell counties. There was a
question now who should have command of these battalions, Col.
Bailey or Major Stillman. Col. Bailey claimed it on the ground of
seniority, but as they were old friends tliis contention did not last
long. It was agreed that both should command, — take turn about.
On reaching Dixon Gen. Gaines found them both jolly good fellows,
and the men all liked them; and so they decided to hold equal rank
and both command.
Col. Bailey lived at Pekin and died several years ago in that city.
Gen. Stillman was born in Massachusetts in 1792 ; came to Sangamon
county, 111., in 1824, and to Canton, Fulton county in 1830. He
was a Commissary in the war of 1812, and when residing in New
York was Captain of an artillery company. He was a tall, finely-
appearing man, and especially did he ])resent an im])osing appear-
ance when adorned in military costume. He broutrht the first
goods at Copperas-Creek Landing and engaged in mercantile busi-
ness at Canton for six years. He located Copperas-Creek Landing,
and it was recognized as his although he never really owned it. It
was known as the "lost land," and could not be bought. On Jan.
18, 1818, he was married to Hannah Harwood, a daughter of Oliver
Harwood, a native of the old Bay State, and who came to New York
early in life. He was in the Revolutionary war, was wounded and
taken ])risoner, and the British were preparing to execute the death
penalty u})on him when he was captured by the Americans. Mrs.
Stillman, who resides at Canton at present, was born in Herkimer
county, N. Y., April 25, 1799. They had two children when they
came to the State and two born to them afterwards. Of these but
one is living, namely, Mrs. Mary Barber, wife of Norris Barber, of
Elmwood, Peoria county.
Gen. Stillman was a brave officer and one who had the esteem of
all the men he commanded. The accounts of the famous "Stillman
defeat," as generally recorded in histoj-y, does this brave command(n-
great injustice. Many attribute the cause of that disaster to his
lack of judgment and eagerness to meet the foe when really he was
forced to go against his will and better judgment. The soldiers
became impatient to rout the Indians, and Gov. Reynolds ordered
Major Stillman with his command to move on and meet them.
This he objected to doing, saying with his small force of raw militia
he could only meet with defeat. The Governor urged him, and then
he asked to have Capt. Henry of Springfield accom})any him, which
he refused to do; and it only remained for Major Stillman to obey
the orders of his superior. His men were undisciplined, and many
292 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
of them had just came from the East and South and had never seen
an Indian, and none were familliar with the Indian mode of warfare.
The consequence was that as soon as they saw tlie long line of painted
redskins and heard their terrible war-whoop, they were so frightened
that they could not shoot their loaded guns. The Major and some
of his brave officers tried to restore the panic-stricken ranks to order,
but in vain; and it was only the superior generalship of their cool
and deliberate commander that prevented the slaughter of half his
command. While Gen. Stillmau's name will ever be coupled with
this disastrous defeat, let no word of reproach be spoken of him for
the cause of it. It was a defeat, an ignoble one ; but had the com-
mander been less able, less cool, less brave, indeed less a general,
many more of those frightened pioneers would have fallen in their
own blood on the field of " Stillman's defeat."
Major Isaiah Stillman, afterward promoted to General, died at
Kingston, Peoria county, April 1(3, 18(31.
stillman's defeat,
Dixon was the point where the regular and volunteer troojjs were
to meet. Major Stillman with his men reached Dixon, May 10th.
The steady, careful movements of the regulars made the volunteers
very impatient, and the latter were also exceedingly anxious to ob-
tain the laurels to be won. The men under command of Major
Stillman were particularly anxious to "ketch" the Indians before
they could get away. They said the regulars would come cj'awling
along, stuffing themselves with beef, and the Indians would never
be "ketched." The officers yielded to the impatience and jealousy
of the men, and requested Governor Reynolds to let them go out
and reconnoitre the country and find the Indians. Captain Eads,
from Peoria, insisted very strongly that they should be allowed to
go. The other caj)tains all volunteered, for they did not wish to be
termed cowards. The question with them was not whether the mat-
ter was prudent and necessary, but whether they dared to go. INIajor
Stillman consented to go, against his Ijetter judgment. He asked
Mr. John Dixon's opinion, and the latter told him very decidedly
tliat the business of "ketcliing" the Indians would prove very dis-
astrous for a little force of less than three hundred men. Major
Stillman then said that as all his officers and men were determined
to go, he niust lead them if it cost him his life. Stillman's force
started, and just before night May 12, 1832, they encamped at
White R<x'k Grove, in the eastern part of Marion township. Ogle
countv, near what is now called Stillman's creek. He was verv near
Black Hawk's cncamjjment, but did not know it. Soon after becom-
ing iiware of the immediate ])resence of an armed force Black Hawk
sent a small party of his braves to Stillman's camp with a flag of
triice. On their approach they were soon discovered by some of the
men, who, without reporting to their commander, and without orders,
hastilv mounted and dashed down upon the approaching Indians.
HISTORY OF FT^T/rOX <'()UNT\'. 293
The latter not understanding this sudden and apparently suspicious
movement, all, save two who claimed to be Pottawatomies, retreated
toward the camp of their chief. The whites killed two as they fur-
ther ]uirsued the retreating Indians. The two Indians who refused
to run were brought into camp. They said: "Me good Pottawat-
omie," but pointed over the hill and said, "Heap of Sac." When
Black Hawk and his war chief, Ne-o-pope, saw the volunteers dash-
ing down upon their camp, their flag of truce disregarded, and
believing their overtures for peace had been rejected, they raised the
terrible war-whoo]) and prepared for the fray.
At this juncture the volunteers formed and moved forward. Be-
fore going far an Indian prisoner was brought into the camp and
sent to the rear. The men moved on and made a halt near a slouirh.
Here the ofticers went ahead and some kind of a parley Avas held
with the Indians. The latter swung a red flag in defiance. Orders
were then given to march forward, when Capt. Eads of Peoria came
riding back, and said he was not easily fooled, and that there was
not less than a thousand Indians coming. The men were then
marched back in some confusion across the slough to high ground.
There they formed, or tried to form, but were in bad order. The
Indians then poured out of the timber, to the front, right and left,
and l)oth parties commenced firing; but the whites were in such
bad (>rd(M- that those in the rear were in danger of shooting those in
front. The Indians came on whooping, yelling and firing, and en-
circled around on both sides. Major Stillman ordered his men to
mount and retreat and form a line across the creek, and also ordered
them to break the line of the Indians on the left. Here was confu-
sion, and one veteran says they did not go to the right or to the left
but right straight fi)r home. When they arrived at the creek great
effort was made bv the officers to halt "their men and fii^ht. The
"to"
brave Oa})t. Adams cried out to his men, " Comeback, you cowards,
and we will whip them." With eight men he made a stand and
repulsed a squad of Indians each time, who made eight separate and
distinct charges upon them. At last, seeing that with that little
force he could do nothing, he told his men they would have to look
out for themselves. Two brave soldiers were with him .at this time
and soon saw him fall ; but he sold his life dearly. He had his
horse shot from under him Avhen the retreat began. He bore a
deadly hatred towards the Indians, as they had killed many of his
relations. Major Perkins was overtaken and killed about a mile
and half from the creek, and his body terribly mangled. The loss
at this disastrous engagement fell most heavily ui)on this county.
Of thirteen sturdy pioneers who fell at this the battle of the Syca-
more, Bird Ellis, John Walters, Tyus Chi Ids and Joseph Farris
were from Fulton county. There were three of the Farris boys in
the company, and Jerry was with his brother Joseph when he was
killed ; and he was fired at but escaped when the stalwart brave hit
him over the head with his gun knocking him down. He crawled
to a thicket of bushes and lay three days before he was rescued.
294 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTV.
HORRIBLE MASSACRE.
After the fatal engagement Avhicli has since been known as
"Stillman's defeat" or " StiUraan's run," the Indians began to com-
mit great depredations upon the whites. Among other fiendish and
murderous raids was one made upon a little settlement on Indian
creek. Three families by the names of Davis, Hall and Pettigrew
lived there. The Indians appeared in the day-time and massacred
them in cold blood, taking a savage delight in their infernal deeds.
Some of the inmates were immediately shot down, others were pierced
through with s])ears or dispatched with the tomahawk. The Indians
afterwards related with an infernal glee how the women squeaked
like geese when they were run through the body with spears, or felt
the tomahaw-k entering their heads. All the victims were carefully
scalped, the children were chopped to pieces with axes, and the
women were tied up by the heels to the wall of the house. There
were two voung; ladies who tried to conceal themselves bv crawling;
into bed. They were discovered by two young braves who deter-
mined to have them for wives. Their names were Rachel and Silvia
Hall, aged fifteen and seventeen. They were hurried by forced marches
beyond pursuit. After a long and fatiguing journey with their caj)-
tors through a wilderness country, with but little to eat, aud being
subjected to a variety of fortune, they were at last rescued, §2,000
being given as a ransom. It is said that the Indians exacted by
far the largest ransom for the elder sister, as she was more quiet and
gave the Indians less trouble ; but they let the younger sister go
pretty cheap, as she was so saucy and impudent that she made her
captors much trouble. The women are still living in the northern
part of the State. AVe are told by a lady who saw the Misses Hall
just after their release, that they related to her all the details of
the horrible murder of their father, mother and little sister, and their
neighbors. They said they could see the scalp of their little sister
everv dav in the wio;:wam. After their rescue from the Indians, each
of these voung ladies were given a section of land bv the United
States.
The account of these atrocities spread rapidly throughout every
settlement, creating the greatest panics among the pioneers. Many
of them were frightened out of their wits, although no hostile In-
dians were within fifty miles of them yet ; with these flicts and rumors
afloat, and the limited means of protection they had at hand, aud
each cabin being almost entirely isolated, we do not wonder at their
timidity. The scare the settlers of Fulton county received is most
graphically described by ]Mr. Swan in his History of Canton, under
the title of The Westerfield Defeat," which account we give below
in full.
THE WESTERFIELD DEFEAT.
In the spring of 183*2 the Black Hawk War was a source of great
alarm to the citizens of Canton. Major Isaiah Stillman, of Canton,
HISTORY OP^ FULTOX COUNTY. 295
in command of a battalion of volnnteer infantry, was in the field,
and had nndcr him most of the yonng men of the community. On
the 13th of May, 1882, the force nnder his command met with a
defeat above Dixon, in Lee county, on what has since been known
as "Stillman's run," and the news soon reached Canton, coupled
with the fact that Bird Ellis, Tyus Childs and John Walter, from
the vicinity of Clinton, had been killed, and a number of others
from here wounded. This news not only cast a gloom over the
community, but created a feeling- of insecurity in the bravest of the
settlers, and of decided alarm, amounting in many cases to absolute
])anic. The settlers were certainly liable to attack from the red-
skins, who were known to be in force and on the war-path to the
north. There was n(j adecjuate force in reach to prevent any incur-
sion they might feel disposed to make, when the "Westerfield De-
feat," as it was called in derision, occurred. Perhaps never in the
history of frontier life has there occurred so broad a farce with so
many of the elements of tragedy and melodrama combined. The
news of vStillman's defeat had reached Canton, and grief-stricken
mothers were in the first anguish of their mourning for slaughtered
sons, when rumors reached the settlement of a purj)ose on the ]:)art
of Black Hawk and his warriors to move southward for an attack
on scattered inhabitants. The excitement was intense. Stories of
slaughtered families, of burnt homes, of captive women and children
subjected to every fiendish indignity, were the current subjects of
conversation at every gathering. Meetings were called in everv
neighborhood, and preparations for defense or refuge begun. Bl(K'k-
houses and stockade forts were erected, and scouts kept constantlv
in the prairies to the northward to warn the people of the approach
of the Indians. One of these forts was erected around the store and
residence of Joel Wright, on the corner of AVood and Illinois streets,
where Mrs. Wilst)n now resides. This fort consisted of two block-
houses and a palisade inclosure of split logs. This was built by
standing the logs on end in a deep trench, which was then filled up
and the dirt well })onnded around the logs.
In March, 1832, scouts were sent out by the people of Canton to
see if any indication of hostile Indians could be discovered. These
scouts had been out several days, but had brought in no report of
an alarming nature, when one day toward the last of the month
Peter Westertield, an old frontiersman, and Charley Shane, a French-
man, determined to go on a scouting expedition on their own respon-
sibility. They were both well mounted, and, crossing Big creek
north of town in the prairie, rode nearly north until they reached a
point nearly in tlie line between Farmington and Ellisville, on Spoon
river. The morning before they started out a number of mounted
white men had crossed the prairie from Peoria to Quincy, and their
trail, of course, was fresh and showed very plainly in the dried
prairie grass. They had ridden in single file ( Indian fashion,) and
a better scout then even Peter Westerfield might have been deceived
29() HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY.
by their trail. Wlien Westerfield and ISliaue reached thit^ trail, thev
both dismounted, examined it carefully, and both were satisfied that
it had been made by a large party of mounted Indians. They cau-
tiously followed the trail until their suspicion crystallized into com-
parative certainty, when, remounting, they started back toward
Canton to alarm the citizens, and take measures for the safety of
themselves and femilies.
As they neared Big creek — which by the melting of snow had
risen until it M-as out of its banks — they had a new cause for alarm.
Jonathan Buffum and Ed. Therman had holed a wolf, and Avere
shooting into the hole. .They were in a direct line between Avhcrc
Westerfield and Shane reached Big creek and Col. Barnes' place,
where John Lane now lives. These bovs were not onlv shooting,
but indulging in all sorts of unearthly yells, imitating Indians,
screaming and hallooing. Another pioneer was squirrel-hunting in
the same vicinity, and another party shooting at a mark in the same
neighborhood.
Westerfield and Shane listened to these noises with undisguised
fear. That it was Indians there could be no mistake, — Indians at
bloody work, shooting, tomahawking and scalping the families of
Col. Barnes and Henry Therman. I^hey did not stop long to con-
sider, but ])lunged headlong into the turbid waters of the raging
Biir creek, and riuht i>allantlv did their nol)le steeds buifet the mad
waves until the angry stream divided them from the dreaded foe.
Their saddles were wet and heavy, and would load their beasts too
much for the fearful race for life they were entering upon, and, with
a coolness never too much to be admired, they dismounted and
relieved their gallant steeds of the dripping leathern saddles, which
were deposited for safety in a convenient thicket of hazel. This
was the work of but a moment, when they remounted their bare-
backed animals and were away over the smooth prairie, across the
few ravines, and on, on to the. fort at Canton. As they jiassed the
cabin of Wheaton Chase they shouted, '^Injins are killing Barnes'
folks : flee for your lives ! " Soon Coleman's grocery was reached,
and the cry of "Injins! Injins ! " reiterated. On, on to the fort
they rode, and still their cry was "Injins! Injins!" "The Injins
have killed everybody at Barnes' and Therman's ! "
And now began a scene of the wildest confusion. Men shouted
the dreaded alarm ; women screamed ; small boys, pale with fright,
crept into the dense hazel-thickets and fled for their lives. Some
of these boys were thus hiding for days and days, subsisting on
roots, berries and elm-bark. "To the fort ! To the fort ! " was now
the cry, and soon the people were gathering, a pale, nervous,
affrighted throng, within the little wooden inclosure which was then
their only hope of safety. To us, who from the distance of nearly
fortv years contemplate the scene, it is a broad comedy ; but to those
affrighted pioneers it was a tragedy, the denouement of which might
■prove fatal to them and their loved ones. It was known that Keo-
^&-_
^m^-
I *t ^1 C^ r H>^^
•.•^, --'•
tZt:?yz^^
CANTON
Lib;. Mil i
. , 0^ THE
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 299
kuk and three thousand warriors were encamped opposite the Yel-
low Banks, held in check only by his promise of neutrality ; and
who would believe the word of the treacherous red-skin ? Black
Hawk's band, too, were on the war-path. They had defeated Major
Stillman, and men from Canton were among the victims, while
between here and the scene of that disaster there was no sufficient
force for the protection of the infant settlement. All these facts
were well known, and had been frequently canvassed among the
settlers. Peter AYesterfield was a man, too, in whose word the most
unbounded confidence was placed. He was a Baptist licensed
preacher, a man of undoubted courage, and had had a considerable
frontier experience. He believed the trail he had seen, and the
yells and firing he had heard, to be the work of Indians, and had
no doubt that Col. Barnes' family had been massacred. What won-
der the defenseless people were frightened !
Preparations for defense, however, were not neglected. The
women filled several large kettles with water, and determined to
aid all they could in the common defense by using it on the foe !
There were incidents of broad comedy intermingled, even then, with
the tragedy, that caused grim smiles to illumine even faces white
with fear, — incidents that have served to enliven many a fireside
description of those frightful days.
Joel Wright was, by common consent, selected as the commander
of the fort, and Isaac Swan as his second in command. Joel was
dressed in a light suit, with a linen roundabout. During the excite-
ment he was everywhere, — assuring frightened women, issuing
orders for defensive prejmrations, and distributing powder and lead
to the men. Be it understood, the women preserved their courage
far better than their lords, as was evidenced by the fact that when
no male hand could be found sufficiently steady to pour melted lead
into bullet-molds, a woman volunteered to make the bullets, and
made them without s])illing a drop of the metal. Mrs. Dr. (^oy-
kendall was particularly noted for her coolness and courage on this
occasion, and did most of the bullet-molding.
To recount all the varied phases of this scare would itself recpiirt;
a volume. Some were dramatic, most farcical, as viewed through the
light of forty years, and by the knowledge that there was absolutely
no danger. Among the amusing incidents of the day was the arriv-
al, at the fort, of Jerry Coleman and 'S({uire McKim, who were at
Coleman's mill, on Big creek, when Westerfield's news was com-
municated to them. Jerry got the word a few seconds in advance
of jMcKim, and being lame, set out at once. McKim, however,
was not long in overtaking him. McKim wore an old-fashioned
dress or swallow-tailed coat, and as he ran past the slow-paced Jerry,
the coat-tails offered so tempting an aid to the boys's flight that he
could not refrain from seizing hold of them with both hands. Mc-
Kim was a large, portly man, who weighed nearly two hundred; at
the same time McKim was a frightened man, and fright is ever self-
19
300 HISTORY OF FT'LTOX COUNTY.
ish. He wa.s not willing to be retarded by the weight of Jerry at-
tached, like the weight to the tail of a kite, to his eoat-skirts, so he
turned on Jerr}" and tried to disengage his hold ; but Jerry's grip was
always good, and fear had turned it into a grip of iron : he would
not let go. " For God's sake, Jerry, let me go, or we will both be
killed I Please, Jerry, let me save my own life I" But Jerry heed-
ed not his pleadings; like Sindbad's Old Man of the Sea, he could
not be shaken off. McKim turned to run, but still the weight of
the crippled boy would retard his speed, and he Mould turn again
and plead and fight, and pray for deliverance from the tormenter.
Jerry loved life and feared Indians too much to be influenced either
by prayer, threats or blows. He hung on, and was still hanging on
when McKim dashed into the fort.
Jerry found his father gone and the store thrown wide open. He
took possession and sold out the whole stock of powder and lead in
a few moments, not stopping to take an account of sales or settle
with customers. It had cost him nothing, and he sold at cost and
was satisfied.
Wm. Hannan, Charles Reeves and Williain Babbett, boys of per-
haps a dozen years old, were so much infected with the contagion of
fear that they determined to seek refuge in flight. They according-
ly left town and took to the timljcr. They crossed Big creek north of
Jacob Ellis' mill, and struck down the creek through the timber to
a point \ve>t of Lcwistown, where they hid in a dense thicket.
Young Reeves had on a pair of buckskin breeches, and during his
flight he had got them completely saturated with water. When the
])arty took to cover he ])ulled them off and hung them up on some
brush to dry. This was a serious error on Charles's part, as the
se([uel showed. He had not taken into his calculation the peculiar
idiosyncrasy of buckskin, and found, to his chagrin, that the pants
which had fitted exactly before they were wet, and been too large
while saturated Avith the treacherous fluid, were in their dried state
infinitely too small. — so much so that l)y no amount of stretching,
coaxing or pulling could they be induced to come over his l)are
limbs. He had to give it up in despair, and made the rest of his tri]>
through brush and briers in a primitive toilet, more simple and con-
venient than |)leasant. They were out all the day of the AVester-
field scare, all the succeedina: night, and until the next night, sub-
sisting on l)erries and elm-bark. How long th^y would have hidden
no one can affirm — perhaps they would have been hiding until this
day — had they nf>t been attracted by the sound of an ox-driver's
•• \V(»-haw, Buck," and ventured to " interview" him, thus learn-
ing that danger was over and that they could safely return to their
homes.
At C'ol. Barnes' the news was tardy in coming that Westerfield
brought. The colonel was out serving at the head of his company
under Stillman. Stephen Babbett's wife heard the alarm sounded
<»n the east side of Big ceek, and, gathering up one child and calling
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 301
to her two remaining children to foUow, ran at her ntmo.st speed
to Barnes'. Henry Andrews, then a hoy of perhaps fourteen years,
saw her coming and called to know what was the matter. "Oh,"
she exclaimed, "the Indians are murdering everybody across the
creek. The people are running and hallooing 'Indians! Indians!'"
Andrews at once sent Col. Barnes' two younger boys over to old
Mr. Swegle's to give them them the alarm, and in a short time they
returned, bringing wntli them the old gentleman — who was fir ad-
vanced in years — and his old lady and daughter. Mrs. Barnes now
took the direction of affairs, and directed the party to seek shelter in a
thicket at the head of a neighlxtring ravine. To reach this thicket
the party were instructed to strike the ravine at a point considerably
below, and then to follow up the b(xl of the stream, wading in the
stream to hide their trail. The two small bovs led the wav, and the
old gentleman and the women and children followed. There were
fourteen persons in all, and oidy one boy, armed with a trusty rifle
to protect them, Henry Andrews, brought up the rear; and as he
followed he picked his flint and jirepared for the struggle for life and
foi- the lives of the women and children who were confided to his
guardianship.
"Oh, Henry," said Mrs. Barnes, "what can you do with so many
of us?" "I Avill do the best I can and kill as many of them as I
can," responded Henry.
On reaching the cover of the dense hazel-thicket, the party took
to cover, except Henry, who stood guard f)r a couple of hours ; and
they seemed mortal hours to tiie boy, who looked each moment to
have the red-skins pounce upon him. At last, grown tired of wait-
ing, Henry determined to venture to Canton and see what the real
condition of aifairs might be. He ])roceeded very cautiously, keep-
ing in the cover of the hazel-brush as much as possible, until he
reached the "Morse quarter" adjoining Canton, when he came upon
John Huff", who was out on guard. Hufl" was frightened, and it
was with difficulty Henry suticeeding in making himself known : he
succeeded finally, and proceeded to the fort. Here he found the
wildest confusion existing. All crowded around him, believing him
sole survivor from among the settlers on the west side of the creek.
Mutual ex})lanations followed, and at once the scare was at an end.
This scare Avas named, in honor of its progenitor, "Westerfield's De-
feat," and as such it is still known.
The Westerfield scare was by no means confined to Canton, but
spread through all the surrounding townships. In the Mallory set-
tlement— now Putman township — were many settlers, among whom
were the Mallorvs, Fellowses, Stricklands and Holcombs. There was
./ 7 7
an understanding between Isaac Fellows and Joel Coykendall, at
(knton, that if any serious alarm was given, Joel should communi-
cate the news to Fellows. No sooner had the word brought by Wes-
terfield reached Canton, of proximity of Indians, than Joel mounted
a fleet horse and rode at utmost speed to Fellows's, to warn him of
302 HISTORY OF FTI.TOX COTXTY.
danger, accordiug to his promise. The men in the neighborhood
had met that afternoon to drill, the place of muster being near old
Mr. Holcomb's. Thither Coykendall was directed by Mrs. Fellows,
who, terribly alarmed, gathered up her two children, Penella and
Stephen, and calling for her sister-in-law, Mrs. Cyrus Fellows,
started for the same place.
The company at drill were terribly excited when Coykendall com-
municated his news, and at once, by common consent, separated,
with the understanding that they would meet and fort at Holcomb's,
whose house was the most roomy in the settlement. Holcomb's
house was a cabin with two rooms, and situated on the prairie. He
had no stable, but on the ground, ready for raising, had the logs for
a small log barn. The men were wonderfully expeditious in collect-
ing their little families at Holcomb's, — so expeditious, indeed, that
not a man of them had thought of his arms. When all were asssem-
bled, the scene would have beggared the pencil of Hogarth to paint
all its serio-comic and tragic eifects. Women with disheveled locks
were praying; men palsied with fear, and children screaming with
affright. Some one suggested that a fort must be built about the
house. The suggestion was grasped at, as drowning men grasp at
straws. Old Mr. Holcomb siezed a spade, and rushing out before
his door, began to excavate. "M'hat on arth are you a doin', old
man?" shouted his wife. "Diggin' a fort." said he, as he frantically
exhumed s])adeful after spadeful of the rich, black loam.
It was soon discovered that the supply of barn logs Mould not be
sufficient for a stockade ; so it was decided to build a breast-work.
This was soon completed, and was only about three feet in height.
Then was discovered a dire calamity. Here was a breast-AVork, and
here were brawnv defenders, but there was onlv one irnn that was
serviceable. Breast-works are a good thing in themselves, but with-
out arms their strong points in defensive warfare could not be brought
out to advantage. What was to be done? So much time had been
occupied in ])re]>aring their fortifications that it was not probable
there would be time to return to their homes for arms before the
murdering savages would be upon them, and then, the women have
since suggested, their lieges were too much — well, say demoral-
ized, to venture so far from the fort. Some one suggested clubs ;
and as there hap})ened to be a convenient thicket, the suggestion was
at once adopted. Clubs, those primitive weapons of warfare, were
cut in such abundance that Mrs. Isaac Fellows persists to this day
in saying there were fully four wagon-loads, — enough to keep the
Holcomb family in wood until long after corn-planting.
While the vouno- and athletic men were euiratred in the club bus-
iness, old Mr. Strickland, who weighed nearly three hundred pounds
and was too fat to venture so far as the thicket, engaged in imi)ro-
vising for himself a weapon more formidable than the club. Pro-
curing a bayonet with about one-third of the jwint end broken off,
he fastened it to a hoe-handle ; then stationing himself before a win-
HISTOEY OF FULTON COUNTY. 303
(low in an arm-chair, he poised his blunt spear, and with an expec-
tant look, pronounced himself ready to send whoever of the red-skins
should present himself at that window to his last account. As
Strickland sat expectant, waiting, watching, he prayed, — for he was
a religious man, — watched and prayed, determined to die at his
[)()st, — and no Indian within fifty miles ! While Strickland was
preparing his formida])le weapon, old Mrs. Stewart, who weighed
nearly as much as that old hero, was loading and doubly loading the
only serviceable gun.
Still the Indians did not come, and men and women began to
breathe easier. Finally one bold pioneer volunteered to go down
the road toward Canton and see if he could discern any signs of
the enemy. He soon returned with hair erect and eyes dilated, and
declaring that the " Injins" were coming, marching in solid column,
at least a thousand strong ; and now Pandemonium was a quiet place
compared with Fort Holcomb. Men, women, children, all were
screaming, all were praying, all were — but why attempt to describe
what is indescribable? Had Black Hawk, with any of his braves,
been within a mile, the noise then and tliere would have frightened
them out of the country.
Still the Indians did not a})pear. Dark came, lights were extin-
guished, and in darkness and doubt the frightened people watched
and waited. Twelve o'clock, and still no ruthless savaofe. Dawn,
rosy dawn, came, and still the wary savage failed to make morn
hideous with his terrible war-cry. And now came a suspicion, faint
at first, but gradually growing stronger until it crystallized into con-
viction, that the scare was without foundation, and then, all at once,
men became l)rave. Messengers were now found willing to go to
Canton to learn the extent and cause of the alarm. Thev soon re-
turned, bringing the good news that there was not an Indian within,
perha|)s, one hundred miles of the county line !
The Westerfield scare was communicated to the Moores' Grove
settlement by a runner, who crossed below the Lewistown bridge
and made his way to Harvey Crosswait's. Crosswait communicated
the alarm at once to his neighbors, inviting them all to take refuge
at his new log house, which was (piite roomy and tolerablv well cal-
culated for defense. Between Crosswait's and Joshua Moores' there
was a ravine that, on account of the melting snow, had been con-
verted into a raging torrent. Crosswait went as nearly to Moores'
as this torrent would permit, and hallooed across to old Mrs. Moores.
The old gentleman was now ([uite old, and Walters, his son-in-law,
had just been killed at Stillman's defeat. Old Mr. Moores gathered
up his sick wife in his arms and, followed by his daughter Jennie,
her sister, and their four children, they started for the expected
])lace of safety. On arriving at the slough, they waded in across
the bottom for some distance to a foot-log across the small stream,
Mr. Moores carrying his wife, the two daughters wading, each carrv-
ing a child and leading one. When the foot-log was reached, Mrs
304 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
Moores expressed her belief that the alarm was false, and insisted on
being taken back home ; but at length, yielding to the entreaties of
her children and the expostulation of her husband, consented to go
forward. The whole party crossed over, the old folks by crawling
on their hands and knees, and the vouug-er women bv wadinir
through the swift current, carrying one child and dragging the
other. This was not accomplished without danger, as the water was
deep and the current swift.
When the two young women reached the shore, they noticed close
behind them a neighbor woman, Mrs. Robinson, with two children,
wading through the overflowed bottom toward them, and at once
determined to wait for and assist her across. When Mrs. Robinson
reached the foot-log, Mrs. AValters called to know where he was.
Mrs. Robinson replied, "T don't know. He and his brother
were with me until we got to the creek, and then disappeared : I don't
know what has become of them." It proved that both men,
who were young, stout and hearty, had deserted the poor
woman to her fate, and in company had started, as fast as their
frightened limbs would carry them, for Spriugfield. They did not
return for more than three weeks. Mrs. Walters and her sister aided
Mrs. Robinson to cross the stream, and accompanied her to Cross-
wait's where the company, with many of their neighbors, remained
until dark, when another runner arrived from Jacob Ellis's, inform-
ing them that there had been no danger.
John Orendorff, Esq., relates the incidents of the W^esterfield
scare occurring east and south of Canton. Orendorff and Richard
Addis had started to Hazael Putman's place — since known as the
"Woods Farm," — to attend the muster of their militia company.
On the way- across the Canton Prairie, and when near the mound,
they met Richard Tompkins, who informed them that Peter Wester-
field had just come home, and brought word that the Indians were
killiny; evervbodv north of Canton ; that Barnes' folks had all been
killed, and the danger was imminent. "Who has seen Westerfield ?"
asked Orendorff. "George Anderson," was the reply. Orendorff
expressing doubt of the truth of Anderson's statement, to some ex-
tent re-assured Tompkins, and he consented to return and go with
Orendorff and Addis to Westerfield's house. Westerfield resided on
what is now known as the "Capps Farm." On arriving at Wester-
field's they found the place deserted, Westerfield having fled to the
woods with his family for shelter. They accordingly turned and
rode over to Putman's. Here they found the militia company in
consultation as to the course to be pursued. Esquire Orendorff was
called upon for his opinion, and, after questioning Anderson, who
w^as the only person present that had seen Westerfield, he ex-
pressed himself in favor of sending a messenger at once to Canton
to ascertain the facts, and volunteered to go himself on that errand.
Addis at once volunteered to accompany him. The company agreed
to remain together at Putman's until their return.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 305
Orendorff and Addis set out at once on their mission, and -had
scarcely struck the high prairie before they discovered Peter West-
erfickl coming from toward his place, and evidently with the inten-
tion of joining them. AVesterheld was mounted, bare-backed, on v
sorrel, raw-boned animal ; his head was "enturbaned" with a red
bandana handkerchief; he carried his rifle and shot-pouch by his
side, and wore a look of grim determination. He was evidently going
tc^war, and his courage would not fail him. Westerfield communicated
his news to Urendorlf and Addis, said he had hid his family, and
was going to the fort at Canton to aid in its defense.
On arriving at Canton they found the scare had subsided, Henry
Andrews having come in from the Barnes farm with news of their
safety, and that no Indians were in that vicinity. When Westerfield
heard this, he grasped Orendorff's arm and exclaimed, "I tell you,
Orendorff, it is true, I know. Didn't I hear them and see their
trail ?" It was no use telling Westerfield that his senses had be-
trayed him.
Orendorff and Addis now I'ode back to Putman'sto notify the com-
pany that the danger was imaginary ; but on arriving there they
found that the valiant militia, taking a new scare, had run to their
homes and were hiding out their families.
Thus ended the most exciting day in Canton's pioneer history.
CLOSE OF THE WAR.
The war went on, resulting in the defeat of the Indians and the
capture of their leader. The rangers came home and were dismissed
from service. They received therefor the remunerative sum of
H6 cents per day for self and horse. Afterwards the general
Government was kind enough to give each ])articipant 80 acres of
land.
INCIDENTS.
The following incident was related by one of the few remaining
veterans of the war: One day the General (Stillman) and some of
the officers started out reconnoitering on a high hill. Some of the
boys thought this presented an excellent oj)portunity to play a good
joke on their commander and officers. Accordingly they fixed
themselves up in blankets to look like Indians, skirted the hill and
appeared to the scouting party from the bushes. The General and
party of course thought them Indians, discharged their guns at them
and started on a general stampede into the camp, yelling, "Indians !
Indians !" and immediately called all the men into line. On dis-
covering their mistake the boys had a merry time over the scare, and
it was a standing joke on the officers as long as the campaign
lasted.
Theodore Sergeant was Lieutenant of the Canton militia company
during the Black Hawk war, and in that capacity for a considerable
period of time had command of the com])any. After Stillman's de-
306
HISTORY OF FULTON COUXTY,
feat, an order came from the Governor to Sergeant for seven men
from the Canton company. Sergeant at once mnstered his men in
front of Child & Stillman's store, and read the requisition, calling
upon those who would go to fall in after the music, which was at
the same time ordered to march and counter-march. Up and down
tramped the musicians before the company, but not a man fell in
behind them. Sergeant was equal to the emergency. Ordering the
music to cease, he went into the store and bought two gallons f)f
whisky, which he passed down the ranks treating every man. "Now
boys," said he, "I've got to have seven men or I'll draft them.
Music ! forward, march ! Boys, fall in, you who want to go." Either
the whisky or the threat, or patriotism, proved potent, and nine
more than the required number at once fell in.
CHAPTER TX.
CRIMINAL KEiJOHD.
The criminal record of Fulton county, as the dark contents of this
chapter will clearly show, brings her to the front rank in this partic-
ular, as she stands in every noble one. Since the day wicked Cain
slew his brother Abel in the very morning of the world's history,
the earth has been bathed in human blood shed by jealous, angry or
infuriated human brothers. In Fulton county it seems that life
has been held as of little value by many of our people. Men and
women for slight pretenses have taken the life of their fellow creatures.
The knife, pistol, gun, poison and other weapons have been used
with a prodigal hand. For the most trivial offense the knife has
l)een plunged to the vitals of the victim, the fatal bullet sent to his
heart, or the deadly lotion dealt out. By the observant it will be
noticed as a significant fact that in the following list of murders com-
mitted the oiFense to cause the deadly act to be done has been gener-
ally slight. Seldom justifialjle, it seems to an impartial observer,
yet it will be noticed that the punishment meted out to the criminal
has invariably been light. Not one in the long list of murderers
has been punished with the death penalty. We are not claiming
that in any particular case such should have been done, but wish to
record the facts impartially as we find them. As above mentioned,
it would seem from this state of public sentiment that life is looked
upon as not very sacred or valuable by many persons of this county.
To illustrate further the slight value placed upon life by some, aside
from the terrible facts recorded below, we will refer to a trial once
brought before a justice of the peace of Liverpool township. Two
neighbor women were brought to trial and prosecuted for the attempt
upon the life of another neighbor woman. One of these, while
making soap in the open air, had contracted with the other for a
verv small sum of monev, only a few dollars, to kill the third woman
referred to. The committal of the dark deed was thoroughly dis-
cussed, and plans laid to carry it into execution. The woman who
for a few dollars had bargained to take the life of one of her neigh-
bors intended committing the deed with a garden hoe. We do not
wish to reflect upon the high moral standing of the citizens of
Fulton county in general, but as faithful historians we must impar-
tially record things as they exist.
We have not attempted to give a list of the persons who were in-
308 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
dieted for manslaughter. There is a \'erv long list of these, many
of whom are not murderers simply because they failed in aim, not
because they did not intend to commit the deed. We give every
case where a person was indicted and tried for murder.
James Off den.
In 1840 there was a house-raising at John Morris', in Union
township, near Troy Mills. Among those present was James Og-
den. While at dinner Ogden thought he was insulted by
another party, and being of an irritable temperament he became
very cross, angry, abusive and profane. George Morris, a young
man, became incensed at Ogden's abusive manners, and made his
feelings known. The two soon got into a tight. Ogden kicked
Morris very hard during the tussle. When parted, Morris remarked
that he was badly hurt. He was taken into the house and laid upon
a bed, no one supposing that he was seriously hurt ; but within
fifteen minutes he died. After some time had elapsed Ogden gave
himself up to Sheriff La master, was tried, found guilty and sentenced
to the penitentiary for one year. He served a portion of his time
and was pardoned by Gov. Carlin. We are told that his treatment
while at the penitentiary was very mild, he being permitted to drive
a team through the streets of Alton and do general outside work.
Neheiaiah Northup.
About noon one day in the summer of 1847 or '48, Norman Bea-
mas was married in Liverpool, In the evening of that day, Xehe-
miah Xorthup, a resident on the north side of Liverpool island, got
to carousinu; around with women's clothes on. and endeavoring to
be a whole "shivaree" of himself. He was not known to have any
particular charge against either Beamas or his new wife ; but when it
was about dusk he met Beamas on the common, passed a few words
with him and started off with a gun on his shoulder, waving it up
and down. At the distance of a few rods, walking with his back
still turned toward Beamas, he fired off the gun, and lo ! the shot
struck the bridegroom on the neck and lower part of his face, shat-
tering his louver jaw to pieces and killing him instantly. Xorthuj)
was arrested and bound over to court under a moderate penalty,
but he finally left the country and has since never been heard of.
It is related that only a half-hour before the death of Mr. Beamas,
the bride was dozing in a rocking-chair and had a very distinct
dream of seeing her husband murdered!
Jackson Louderback, Daniel Louderback and John Curless.
These parties were indicted March G, 1849, for the murder of
Abraham Ijittlejohn, of Woodland township. The history of tlic
case, as we have been informed, is as follows: Some time previous
to the murder two brothers l)v the name of Baldwin came into the
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 309
neighborhood preaching a new religion. They were formerly fish-
ermen, we are told, and came from Havana. Their education was
limited, bat what they lacked in knowledge they made up in zeal
and earnestnes, and consequently found many converts to their
views. Among them were many of the best and most respected
peo])le of that portion of the county. In derision their followers
were called Baldwinites, but Union Baptists was the name they
claimed. Thov were infatuated with their new relip-ion and held
meetings \'ery often. It was at one of these meetings that Little-
john lost his life. It was held at a school-house, or church, and he
was appointed to keej) order. It seems that the Louderbacks and oth-
ers came to this meeting expressly to create a disturbance ; at any rate
they did so, and while Littlejohn was putting one of their number
out of the house Jackson Louderback reached in from without and
cut him in the abdomen with a knife. From the wound made he
soon died. Jackson made his escape and never has been captured.
Daniel and John Curless were arrested and liberated on bail. Dan-
iel's case was postponed from time to time until the November term,
1851, when he came to trial. Julius Manning assisted the prosecu-
tion. Wead (Sz Goudy and I^ewis Ross defended. The case was a
sharply contested one. He was acquitted. The other cases were
then stricken from the docket.
Nancij Wilcoxen.
Nancv Wilcoxen, a woman of questionable character, was in-
dicted, March 17, 1852, for the killing of William Weston. She
went from her home in Liverpool townshij) to Liverpool on the day
of the night of the murder, and purchased a knife for the avowed
purpose of killing Weston. He was at her house, and it is said he
bore but a little better re])utation than the woman. That night she
killed him. Her attorneys were Manning, lioss and Blackwell,
while Wead c\: Goudy assisted the prosecution. She was found
guilty of manslaughter and sentenced to the penitentiary for six
years. She was pardoned, however, before her term of service was
completed, came back to this county, and subsequently went to
Sangamon county, where she died.
Rebecca Dj/e.
This was a case brought from McDonough county on a change of
venue, but it was the most exciting trial ever held in the county. It
lasted nine days. The court room was crowded at every session,
many ladies being constantly in attendance. On the evening of the
27th of May, 1854, Mrs. Dye killed her husband, James Dye, as it
was alleged. David R. Burress was arrested as an accessory to the
crime, but broke jail before trial. INIrs. Dye was tried at the
April term of the Circuit Court, 1855. The prosecuting attorneys
were Messrs. Goudy, of Fulton, Wheat, of Adams, and Schofield &
310 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Mack, of Hancock. For the defense, Messrs. Manning, of Peoria,
Kellogg and Ross, of Fulton, and Cyrns Walker of McDonough.
Probably a more able array of counsel could not have been procured
in the entire State. William C Goudy opened the ease for the
people and Cyrus Walker for the defense. Some eighty or ninety
witnesses were examined. The case was given to the jury after
able arguments on l)Oth sides. It remained out for fifteen hours and
l)rought in a verdict of guilty, and fixed the punishment at confine-
ment in the penitentiary for five years. She was pardoned long be-
fore the expiration of her term, returned to ^lacomb, and died
in 1874.
Willi a III Taif.
In Novemljer, 1857, AVm. Tait was indicted for the killing of
Hamilton Brown at Astoria. One night while passing along the
street Brown was struck upon the head with a stone or a piece of
iron. From the wound inflicted he died. Tait was supposed to
have thrown the stone and therefore was indicted for the murder.
He was liberated upon bail fixed at S500. He was tried and ac-
quitted. Cyrus Walker was his attorney.
Simon H. 0. and John W. HanJij.
A fracas occurred in the little village of Slabtown Wednesday,
April 27, 1S.j9, in which Daniel Richardson was instantly killed
and John O. Hardy severely wounded. There had been a lawsuit
that day in which Richardson was interested, and it not termin-
ating to please him, and, it is said, he being somewhat intoxicated,
became quarrelsome. He attacked, as it was claimed, John O. Hardy,
an elderly gentleman, and struck him two or three times, when
young Hardy approached ; and as he attempted to draw a pistol Rich-
ardson threw a stone, which struck the weapon, causing it to discharge
its contents into the young man's thigh. The old man then drew a
knife and stabbed Richardson to the heart, killing him instantly.
The two Hardys were l^rought to trial at the June term, 1859, on
the charge of murder. From 96 men a jury was chosen and the
case given intr) their hands. They rendered a verdict of "not
guilty."
Isaac H(irri><.
A young man l)y the name of Vaughn was murdered at \'ermont,
Tuesday, July 15, 1860, by Isaac Harris, another young man.
The weajion used was a club. The young men had always been
warm friends. They were traversing a road near Vermont, and
Vaughn became so helpless from excessive drinking that he fell
upon the ground and could not get up. Harris tried to arouse liini
by pounding him with a stick, but without success. He then took
a fence stake and literally pounded the prostrate man to death.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 311
Vaughn was taken home and died that same evening. It seems
that there was no ill-feeling between the two men : they were only
drunk. Harris Mas indicted for murder and tried at the October
term of the Circuit C(»urt, found guilty of manslaughter and sent to
the penitentiary for fifteen years.
Jackson Bolcn.
In Nov., lX(j'2, BokMi klHcd James Mahary, of Vermont. Tliis
occurred during the war, and it seemed the latter had charged the
former with being a Missouri jay-hawker and thief. Bolen hearing
of the charges, went to Mahary fn- satisfaction, when a collision en-
sued, which resulted in Mahary being stabbed to death. Bolen was
indicted Feb. 26, 186.'>, and tried at tlic March term of the Circuit
Court and acquitted, the jury believing he committed the deed in
self-defense.
Thomas Wrlf//if
was brought to trial at the March term of the Circuit Court, 18()2,
for the killing of a Mr. Helm. The case was dismissed during trial
by the prosecution for want of evidence.
Geon/c W. Pofh.
Friday, -lau. l(J, 18()."), at Apple's school-house, four aud a liaH'
uiiles east of I^ewistown, Zachariah Shaw, jr., met his death, bv b(>-
ing stabbed with a bowie-knife in the hands of Geo. W. Potts. A
spelling-s(>hool had been in session at the school-house, and imme-
diately after its close an aftVay occurred between several i)ersons,
resulting in Shaw's death. Potts made his escape. He was indicted
Feb. '28, 1863, for manslaughter, but he could not be found. The
case ran along from term to term until Dec. 14, 1860, when it was
stricken from the docket.
I'J/i Watkius, Ahra/taiit l^'lhatii, Henrij iSchrodcr and Jackson Welch.
These })arties, who resided in Menard county, killed an innocent
and inoffensive boy near Havana, Mason county, and were brought
here on a change of veuvu' from that county. They were taking a
drove of cattle through the county, and stoj)]ied at Havana and be-
came intoxicated. They met their victim, who was a CJerman boy
of twelve or fifteen years of age, in the road, and ordered him off,
and without further provocation shot him down. Thev were
all acquitted.
Ira (Uh.
This man killed a Mr. Baker, of Woodland township. Both
l)arties were respected, and well-to-do citizens. They got into a
fuss, however, over the difference of only fifty cents in making a
settlement with each other, and Cobb shot Baker with a pistol.
312 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
The ball entered the head of its victim and proved fatal immediately.
Cobb was indicted for murder Sept. 29, 1864. He took a change of
venue to Peoria county, was tried, found guilty of manslaughter and
sentenced for ten years. A new trial was granted, and by agree-
ment the case was returned to this county, here he broke jail and
was gone four years. Shortly after his escape he was captured in
Indiana. Sheriff Waggoner hurried forward to get his prisoner, but
ere he arrived Cobb had again escaped. This time lie evaded the
authorities for about four years, w^hen Sheriff Waggoner caught him
in Kansas. When he returned he was brought to trial, but the
prosecution was compelled to beg for a continuance, as everv wit-
ness for the State had either died or left the State. He pleaded
guity, we believe, and was sent to the penitentiary for one year, but
was soon pardoned.
Thoriuoi BicharcUon.
In June, 1805, the village of Marbletown was thrown into con-
siderable excitement by the announcement of the murder of Daniel
Lash. Lash was a farm-hand at the time in the employ of Hiram
Marble. Richardson, a cripple, kept what was familiarly known as
a "jug grocery," — in other words, a saloon. Lash, who was a des-
perate fellow and regarded as an outlaw, came to this saloon using
threatening language toward Richardson, and soon endeavored to
strike him. Richardson in the mean time secured a hatchet, and
when opportunity [)resented struck Lash a hard blow, which |>roved
fatal. Lash exclaimed "He has killed me!" and after walking
about seventy yards fell. Richardson was arrested for the murder,
but the grand jury refused to indict him, and he was set at
liberty.
(.Vftheriiie Lorix, itlidx Cutlicrinc ToclrJ, and Robert Todd.
These parties were indicted April 20, 1865, for committing mur-
der by poisoning ; they were tried at the November teriii of the
Circuit Court, 1865, and found not guilty. Rol)ert, however, was
not discharged until April 20, 1866. A further account will be
given in the history of IMeasant townshij), where the murder was
committed.
Willidin A. Jonea.
The victim of this fracas, which occurred in Bryant, was Wesley
Pittman. Jones was indicted April 21, 1866, found guilty of man-
slaughter April 18, 1867, and sent to the penitentiary for two years.
He killed Pittman with a rock. Sheriff Waggoner took him to
State's prison, where he died.
John Yanu'/I.
This man was indicted April 23, 1867, for killing City Marshall
James P. Goodwin, of Lewistown. He took a change of venue to
HISTOEY OF FULTON COUNTY. 313
McDonough county and was sent to the penitentiary for fourteen
years. He, however, only served f.bout eighteen months, when he
was pardoned.
Oscar Craig.
Craig shot and kiHed Thomas Brown, in Otto, and seeminglv
without any provocation whatever. He was indicted for murder
Aug. 25, 187(J, took a change of venue to Tazewell county and was
acquitted.
Lemuel Furdy, Pitts Lawrence Purdy n)id Samuel JVicholson.
These parties were indicted Aug. 29, 1871, for the murder of a
Swede. The fatal affair occurred on the night of the 4th of Julv,
1871, at a saloon called Shoo Fly, one mile east of Lcwistown. A
majority of the crowd at this place that night were intoxicated. The
Swede had hut recently come to this cotintry and is said to have
been a very (piiet, inoifensive man. In a fracas that occurred he
was struck down with a club, and he died from the effects of the in-
juries received. Nicholson was tried at the April term, 1873, and
found "not guilty." Pitts L. Purdy took a change of venue to
Schuyler county, where he also was acquitted. Lemuel Purdy took
a change to Macon county, tried, found guilty of manslaughter and
sentenced for five years. He was pardoned at the end of three vears.
All of these parties were accounted good, respectable citizens.
John Marion (Jhesiteif.
(Jhesney killed a negro at Abingdon, Ivnox county, in 1873. He
was indicted for murder in the fall and a change of venue was
taken to this county, where, at the Decendier term, 1873, he was
acquitted.
William Odrll.
Odell was indicted for murder Aug. 1, 187o. He was a consta-
ble and lived at Havana, Mason county. He levied upon a boat
belonging to a man by the name of Patterson, who lived near the
Copperas-creek dam. Patterson was a bad character and a desper-
ate man, which fact was known to Odell. He attem])ted to retake
the b(xit from Odell, and in the attempt Odell began shooting at
him, and fired four times, killing him instantly. ()dell was tried in
tins county and acquitted.
Jonathan B. Berry.
About sundown July 10, 1876, Jonathan B.Perry shot and killed
John J. liulicker, of Pleasant township. Berry had married a
widow lady named Maggie Shuman, and on the evening of the
murder Berry was whipping one of her boys ; and to help control
314 HISTORY OF FULTOy COUXTY.
him she sent one of her sons, Willie Shnman, a boy of a dozen sum-
mers, to Mr. Lalioker's, who lived near, for assistance. Mr. L.
hurried over according to the request, and as the two entered the
yard Berry warned Lalicker not to enter the house. Berry fired at
him through a window and again in the house, one of the shots
proving fatal, killing Lalicker almost instantly. Berry was indicted
at the August term of Circuit Court, 1876, and tried at the Decem-
ber term, found guilt\' and sent to the penitentiary for ten years.
He is now confined there.
liichrirf} B. Heather.
In 1876, Oct. 26, Richard B. Heather killed S. Peter Jnhnson, at
Abingdon, Knox county. His bail was fixed at §15,0<X), and he took
a change of venue to this county, was tried at the April term and
convicted of manslaughter and sent to the penitentiary, but the fol-
lowing Xovember pardoned. This was one of the most exciting
trials that ever occurred in the county.
Joseph May all.
Mayall and AVillis were both plasterers by occupation and resided
in Ipava. It appeared that \Vm. Collier had a job of plastering
which both parties wanted to do. Finally AVillis was awarded the
work, which Mayall thought was obtained by defaming him a>s a
workman. An altercation ensued between th«im. Willis had a
hatchet in his hand and seemingly made some movement with it
toward Mavall, when the latter said. " You are not sroinii; to hit
me with the hatchet, are you ?" Willi* threw the hatchet down and
they both walked toward the gate. Upon arriving at the gate ^layall
pulled out a knife and cut Willis, from the wound of which he died.
Mayall was tried at the December term of the Circuit Court, 1876,
and acquitted.
Jaeoh Mabett.
Mabes was indicted for murder Sept. 1, 1877, for the killing <>f
Br\-an Daily, in Orion township. Both men were intoxicated and
were each driving a wagon along the road. Mabes tried to drive
around Daily, which the latter prevented. He then struck him with
a missile, the blow killing Daily. Mabes was admitted to bail
Dec. 7, 1877, the amount of the bond being S3,0<X). He wastried
at the April term of the Circuit Court, 1878, and found "not
guilty."
/Stephen Joy.
At Bernadotte, about 5 o'clock p. m., Saturday, July 19, 1879,
Dr. Sylvester O. Hall, the leading physician of the village, met his
death at the hands of Stephen Joy, an old and respected citizen,
and phenomenally zealous in his religion. The tacts as gleaned from
the evidence at the Coroner's inquest, the trial of Joy not having
m
^
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@s
<
"^i
OF THE
UMVE^^ITY Of ILLINOIS
HISTOEY OF FUI/rON COUNTY. 317
yet occurred, were about as follows : On the morning of the mur-
der Mr. Joy agreed with Dr. Hall that, if he would buy a pony
offered for sale by Perry Jones, he would take the animal off his
hands at $20 cash. The doctor accordingly made the trade, took
the pony to Joy's store and notified him that the animal was ready
for him. Joy told him to hitch the animal and come in, which
Hall did. Joy hesitated for a little while and then backed squarely
out of the trade. This greatly enraged the doctor and some very
bitter words passed, resulting in the doctor commencing a suit
against Joy for damages. The trial was set for July 26, before
'Squire Shipton. All this occurred before noon. The parties dis-
cussed the question publicly during the day, and the very air seemed
impregnated with bad blood.
Between four and five o'clock in the afternoon Hall sauntered
around to Joy's store, and sat down upon the sidewalk at the south-
east corner of the building, while Joy occupied a bench near by.
Hall sat several inches hnver than Joy and they were not luore
than four feet apart. Some bitter words ensued, when Hall called
Joy a hard name. Joy had been whittling with a large pocket
knife, and at this moment reversed the knife quickly, blade down-
ward, and saying, "This must be settled," struck a quick blow at
Hall's bare neck, when a huge stream of blood spurted eight or ten
feet away. Hall seized his neck as if to stay the blood, and said,
" He's killed me ! " Within five minutes after the stab he died.
The wound severed the left carotid artery and jugular vein. Quite
a large nund)er of })ersons were sitting around the two men when
the tragedy occurred, and the blow could easily have been stayed
liad there been any suspicion that one would even strike the other.
But it was all done in a Hash — in the twinkling of an eye. The
cjiithct uttered by Hall, the response by Joy, and the instant thrust
with the knife, — all took ]>lace while the disputants were rising to a
half-standing ])osition.
Stephen Joy was indicted for murder August 21, 187 J), and his
trial ])ostponed. Friday, Septembei' o, 1879, Joy was brought be-
fore Judge Shope, on a writ of hahatx corpaK, to have an examiu-
ation with the object of securing his bail. After a very
full hearing the Judge admitted him to bail in the sum of |25,OOr3,
which was given, and the trial set for the next term of Court.
2Q
CHAPTER X.
PIONEER LIFE.
LOG CABIN'S.
We shall, in this t'liapter, give as clear and exact description nf"
pioneer life in this county, as \ve can find language to picture it in,
commencing with the time the sturdy settlers first arrived ^itli their
scantv stores. They had migrated from older States, where the
prospects for even a com])etency were very poor, many of tlicm
coming from Kentucky, for, it is sup])osed, they found that a good
State to emigrate from. Their entire stock of furniture, imple-
ments and family necessities were easily stored in one wagon, and
sometimes a cart was their only vehicle.
As the first thing after they arrived and found a suitable location,
they would set about the building of a log cabin, a descri})tion of
which may be interesting to the younger readers, and esjiecially
their descendants, who may never see a structure of the kind.
Trees of uniform size were selected and cut into pieces of the de-
sired length, each end being saddled and notched so as to bring the
logs as near together as possible. The cracks were ''chinked and
daubed" to ])revent tlie wind from whistling tiirough. This had to
be renewed every fall before cold weather set in. The usual height
was one story of about .<even or eight feet. The gal)les were made
of logs gradually shortened up to the top. The roof wa> made by
laying small logs or stout ])oles reaching from gal)le to gable, suit-
able distances a])art, on which were laid the clapl)oards after the
manner of shingling, showing tAvo feet or more to the weather. The
clapboards were fastened l)y laying across them heavy poles called
"weight poles," reaching from one gable to the other, being kept
apart and in their place bv laying pieces of timber between them
called "runs," or "knees." A wide chimney ])lace was cut out of
one end of the cabin, the chimnev standinu- entirelv outside, and
l)uilt of rived sticks, laid up cob-house fashion, and filled with elay,
or built of stone, often using two or three cords of stone in building
one chimney. For a window a piece about two feet long was cut out
of one of the wall logs, and the hole closed, sometimes with glass
but oftener with greased paper pasted over it. A doorway was also
cut through one of the walls, and the door was made of spliced clap-
boards and hung with wooden hinges. This was opened by pull-
HISTORY OF FULTOX fOFXTY. ^,19
iiig- a leather latch-string which raised a wooden latch inside the
door. For security at night this latch-string: was pulled in, but for
frieuds and neighbors, and even strangers, the "latch-string was
always hanging (nit," as a welcome. In the interior, upon one side,
was the huge tire-place, large enough to contain a back-log as big as
the strongest man could carry, and holding enough wood to supply
an ordinary stove a week ; on either side were poles and kettles, and
over all a mantle on which was placed the tallow dip. In one cor-
ner stood the larger bed for the old folks, under this the trundle-
bed for the children; in another corner stood the old-fashioned,
large spinning-wheel, witli a smaller one by its side ; in another the'
pine table, around which the family gathered to partake of their plain
food ; over the door hung the ever trustful rifle and powder-horn ;
while around the room were scattered a few splint-bottomed chairs
and three-legged stools; in one corner was a rude cupboard holding
the table ware, which consisted of a few cups and saucers and blue-
edged plates, standing singly on their cd:ges against the back, to
make the display of table furniture more conspicuous.
These simple cabins were inhabited by a kind and true-hearted
peojdc. They were strangers to mock modesty, and the traveler,
seeking lodgings for the night or desirous of spending a few days in
the conununity, if willing to accept the rude offering, was always
welcome, although how they were disposed of at night the reader
may not easily imagine; f>r, as described, a single room was made
to serve the purpose of kitchen, dining-room, sitting-room, bed-
room, and parlor, and many families consisted of six or eight mem-
bers. Soon finer and more costly buildings were erected. Mr.
Swan in his History of Canton describes the first frame building
erected in that city as follows :
"The first frame house erected on grounds now within the j)res-
cnt city limits was l)uilt for Deacon Nathan Jones, in the spring of
1S30. Isaac Swan was the 'boss carpenter,' and was aided by the
deacon. This building is still standing, on the south side of Jones
street, between Wood and Lewistown streets, and is now occupied
by Mrs. Dean. It is a two-story frame house. The frame, of the
' old-fashit>ned ' variety, was built without any sawed stufl'; the
joists and studding being split out of heavy tind)er, the sills and
plates hewed, and the weather-boarding of split boards, shaved. The
weather-boarding was not jointed, but the ends of the clapboards
were shaved thin and la})ped. The roof was laid with split and
shaved oak shingles. The floor, door-frames, corner-boards and
stairs, were alone of sawed hunber. When the carpenters had fin-
ished their work, Mrs. Jones took the job of painting, and did
quite a respectable job, too, painting it Venetian red. This house
was considered the most stylish in the country. As Deacon Jones
was Postmaster and kept the postoflice at his house, it became the
place of resort for the most intelligent of the pioneers, who would
congregate here and discuss educational and religious topics. This
320 HISTORY OF P^ULTON COUNTY.
building was not on the original town plat, however, being then
considered out of town. The first frame erected on the original
town site was built in 1831, and was the property of Joel Wright.
This building was, in fact, but an addition to an already existing
cabin. Isaac Swan was also the builder of this. It was occupied
bv Mr. Wright as a store-room, and was situated on the southeast
corner of Wood and Illinois streets. This building is still stand-
ing, but has been removed from its original site, and is now standing
on First street, between Illinois and Cole streets. It was occupied
until recently by David Will, as a wagon-maker's shop."
SELEC'TIOX OF PIOMES.
For a great many years but few thought it advisable to attempt
farming on the })rairie. To many of them the cultivation of the
prairies was an untried experiment, and it was the prevailing opin-
ion that the timber would soon bec(une very scarce, — a fear soon
proven to be without foundation. Another obstacle that was in
the way for a great many years, was that no plows suitable for
breaking the prairie land could be had. The sod was very much
tougher then tiian it was in after years when the stock had ]iastured
the prairies and killed out the grass to some extent. It would be
astonishing to the younger residents to see the immense crops of
prairie grass that grew u})on the fields which are to-day in such a
high state of cultivation. It grew in places six to twelve feet high.
It was these immense crops of grass that furnished the fuel for the
terrible fires that swept over the j)rairies during the fall. Then,
again, there was so nuich of the prairie land that was considered
too wet to be ever suitable for cultivation. Many of the older set-
tlers now living well remember when farms that are now in th<>
highest state of cultivation were a vast swam]). There was another
draw'back in the settlement of the prairies, and that was the great
labor and cost of fencing. But the princi[)al reason fx)r locating in
the tind)er was that many of their cabins were poor, half-finished
affairs, and protection from the driving storms was absolutely re-
quired. The timber also sheltered stock until such times as sheds
and out-buildings could l)e erected. That the time should soon
come when intelligent, enterprising farmers would see that their in-
terest lay in im)>roving ])rairie farms, and cease clearing fields,
when there were boundless acres presenting no obstacle to the most
perfect cultivation, argues nothing in the policy of sheltering for a
tim(^ in the woods. In regard to the pioneers settling along the
timber, we often hear remarks made as though the selection of such
locations implied a lack of judgment. Those who are disposed to
treat it in that manner are asked to consider carefully the above
facts, when they will conclude such selection argued in their favor.
Clearing of timber land was attended with much hard labor. The
underbrush M'as grubl)ed up, piled info heaps and burned. The large
HISTORY OF PTU/rOX COUNTY. 821
trees were in many cases left standing, and deadened by girdling.
This was done by cutting through the bark into the wood, generally
through the "sap," all around the trunk.
MILLING.
Not the least of the hardshi})s of the pioneers was the procuring
of bread. The first settlers must be supplied at least one year from
other sources than their own lands. But the first crops, however
abundant, gave only partial relief, there being no mills to grind the
grain. Hence the necessity of grinding by hand power, and manv
families were poorly provided with means for doing this. Another
way was to grate the corn. A grater was made from a piece of tin,
sometimes taken from an old, worn-out tin bucket or other vessel.
It was thickly perforated, bent into a semi-circular form, and nailed,
rough side upwards, on a board. The corn was taken in the ear
and grated before it got dry and hard. Corn, however, was eaten
in various ways.
Soon after the country became more generally settled, enterpris-
ing men were readv to embark in the millinii; business. Sites alono;
the streams were selected for water-power. A person looking for a
mill-site would follow up and down the stream for a desired loca-
tion, and when found he would go before the County Commis-
sioners and secure a writ of ad (jiiod (Janunivi. This would enable
the miller to have the adjoining land officially examined, and the
amount of damage by making a dam was named. Mills being such
a great public necessity, they were permitted to be located ujion any
person's land where the miller thought the site desirable.
BAND-MILL.
John Coleman established a mill nortli of the Fairview bridge.
This mill was celebrated for " makino- haste" — and meal — "slowlv."
It was said that it ran so slow that the dogs were in the habit of
chewing in two the band while the mill was running, when Cole-
man would call to Jerry, who drove the team, to know what was the
matter; and Jerry would respond that the "dod-durned dogs had
chewed the band in two again." Jacob Ellis erected a water-mill
between Canton and Lewistown about 1824, which did a good busi-
ness. He erected another mill near Canton, on Big Creek, al)out
1829-30.
NATIVE ANIMALS.
The wild animals infesting this county at the time of its settle-
ment were the deer, wolf, bear, wild-cat, fox, otter, raccoon, wood-
chuck or ground-hog, skunk, mink, weasel, muskrat, opossum, rab-
bit and squirrel; and the principal feathered game were the quail,
prairie-chicken, and wild turkey. Several cf these animals furnished
meat for the early settlers ; but their principal meat did not consist
322 HISTORY OF FULTO>' COUNTY.
long of game. Pork and poultrv were .soon raised in abundance.
The wolf was the most troublesome animal, it being the common
enemy of the sheep. It was quite difficult to protect the sheep from
their ravages. Sometimes pigs and calves were also victims of the
wolf. Their howlings in the night would often keep fomilies awake,
and set all the dogs in the neighliorhood to barking. Their yells
Avere often terrific. Says one settler: " Suppose six boys, having
six dogs tied, whipped them all at the same time, and you Mould
hear such music as two wolves would make." To eifect the destruc-
tion of these animals the county authorities oifered a bounty for their
scalps ; and, besides, big hunts were inaugurated for their destruction,
and " wolf hunts" are prominent among the memories of the early
settlers. Such events were generally turned into a holiday, and
everA'body that could ride a nag or stand the tramp on foot joined in
the deadly pursuit. A large circuit was generally made by the
hunters, who then closed in on every side, driving the hungry wolves
into the center of the corral, where they were despatched. The
return home with the carcasses was the signal for a general turn-out,
and these " pleasure parties" are still referred to by old citizens a,<
among the pleasantest memories of early life in Fulton county.
Many a hungry wolf has been run down on the prairies where now is
located a town or a hue farm residence. This rare old pastime, like
much of the early hunting and tishing the pioneers indulged in here,
departed at the appearance of the locomotive.
BEE-HUNTING.
During the early settlement of this part of the State, one of the
prevailing customs of the pioneers was " bee-hunting," Often a
small company would travel many miles into a wild, unsettled
country, in search of the sweet, flavored honey of the wild bee.
Large trees containing many gallons, and often a barrel, w'ere fre-
quently found by bee-hunters. The little, busy bees would be
carefullv watched as thev flew heavilv laden with the richest extract
of the flowers that were purely native and unknown to the present
generation. They always took a "bee-line" for their homes. This
was a correct guide to the sturdy hunter, who had studied with care
the ways of the bee and by their knowledge took advantage of the
little insect. Once on t e trail, good bee-hunters were almost certain
to capture the rich prize. After the bee-tree was discovered it was
no trouble to get possession of the honey. The tree was felled, and
the hunters would rush for their booty ere it was lost by running
out upon the ground.
MANNERS AND CUSTOMS.
The pioneer was more freely and heartily social with his friends,
and cold toward his enemies, than we seem to be at~the present day ;
and he showed Mhat race he belonged to by his efforts to establish
religious, philanthropic and educational institutions. The young
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 32.3
folks, we have no doubt, found many ways of robbing; old Time of
loneliness. It would be unfair to suppose them, especially the
ladies, destitute of fashionable aspirations, but the means for gaudy
display were very much eircumscril)ed in those days. The male
attire consisted chietly of buckskin, or homespun cloth, — we might
add home-woven, the loom being tar more common in or near their
rude huts than the piano or organ. They were not, however, desti-
tute of musical taste, and many of their vocal performances would
compare favorably with our present choirs. We may safely say
they sang with the spirit. Most of the ladies, also, wore homespun,
which they manufactured from wool, flax, cotton, and the bark or
lint of the nettle, colored with such ingredients as nature provided,
without the aid of art. A few even adopted buckskin. How many
yards of the latter article were required for a fashionable dress in
those times, or in what particular style it was cut and trimmed, we
are not informed, and must leave the ladies to draw their own con-
clusions. These dresses certainly were durable, and shielded the
wearer in out-door exercises incident to the planting, attending and
gathering of crops, in which pursuit the ladies in all new couutries
assist.
Another of the prevailing fashions was that of carrying fire-
arms, made necessary by the presence of roving bands of Indians,
most of whom were ostensibly friendly, but like Indians in all
times, treacherous and unrelial)le. These tribes were principally
Pottawatomies. There were also in the northern part of the State
several tribes of hostile Indians, ready at any time to make a mur-
derous, thieving raid upon the white settlers ; and an Indian war
at any time was an accepted prol)ability ; and these old settlers to-
day have vivid recollections of the Black Hawk and other Indian
wars. And, while target practice was nuich indulged in as an
amusement, it was also necessary for a ])roper self-defense, the
settlers finding it necessary at times to carry their ji-uns with them
when they went to hoe their corn. In some instances their guns
were stacked in the field and the laborers worked for a certain dis-
tance around them, and then moved the guns to a certain position
and again proceeded with their work.
These were only a few of the hardships incident to pioneer life,
which was largely made up of privations, inconveniences and dan-
gers. They had few labor-saving machines and no reliable markets.
Even communication by letter with their distant friends and rela-
tives was rendered difficult for want of proper mail facilities, and
sometimes for the want of money to pay the postage on the letters
sent to them, — the postage then being twenty-five cents for a single
letter, many of which remained in the office for weeks on account
of the inability of the persons addressed to pay the postage.
324 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUIsTY.
PEEACHIXG OF THE GOSPEL.
The early settlers were not entirely without preaching. Says an
old pioneer on this subject: "The ministers of the Gospel of the
Savior of the Avorkl hunted us up and preached to what few there
were ; therefore we did not degenerate and turn heathen, as anv
community will where the sound of the gospel is never heard. I
shall not give their names, though sacred in memory, for they were
not after the fleece, but after the flock, because they had but little
to say about science and philosophy, but spoke of purer things."
EDUCATIOX.
Though struggling under the pressure of poverty and privation,
the early settlers planted among them the school-house at the ear-
liest practicable period. So important an object as the education of
their children they did not defer until they could btiild more come-
ly and convenient houses. They were for a time content with such
as corresponded with their rude dwellings, but soon better build-
ings and accommodations were provided. As may readily be sup-
posed, the accommodations of the earliest schools were not good.
Sometimes school was taught in a small log house erected for the
purpose. Stoves and such heating apparatus as are now in use were
unknown. A mud-and-stick chimney in one end of the building,
with earthen hearth and fire-place wide and deep enough to take in
a four-foot back-log, and smaller wood to match, served for warm-
ing purposes in winter and a kind of conservatory in summer. For
windows, part of a log was cut out in either side, and may be a
few lights of eight-by-ten glass set in, or just as likely as not the
aperture would be covered Avith greased paper. Writing benches
were made of wide planks, or likely puncheons, resting on pins or
arms, driven into two-inch aus^er-holes, bored into the logs beneath
the windows. Seats were made out of puncheons, and flooring of
the same material. Everything was rude and plain ; but many of
America's greatest men have gone out from just such school-houses
to grapple with the world and make names for themselves, and
have come to be an honor to their coiuitry. Among these we
can name Abraham Lincoln, our martyred President, one of the
noblest men ever known to the world's history. Stephen A. Doug-
las, one of the greatest statesmen of the age, began his career in
Illinois teaching in one of these primitive school-houses.
James H. Murphy, who taught school at Canton in an early day,
will probably remember the time he was asked for a holiday by his
scholars and he refused to grant it. The following morning four
of his scholars, J. L. ^Murjihy and three Fenton lioys, went to
the school-house quite early, entered, locked and barred the door,
and refused the teacher admittance when he came, ludess he would
grant them the desired holiday. He expostulated, but the boys
Avere obdurate. He resorted t<» the chimney, covering the top ot
HISTORY OF FTiLTOX f'OUXTY. . :125
smoke the boys out, but this proved useless. Fiually he broke
through a window and eifected an entrance, when the boys pitched
into him and proved the stronger. They bound him with ropes,
yet he wouki not promise the holiday. At last they threatened to
duck him in a pond that was near unless he promised. This was
to severe for him ; so he yielded and gave the school the holiday.
But all these things are changed now. We no longer see log
school-liouses. Their places are filled with handsome frame or
brick structures, which for elegance and beauty of design rival
those of older-settled countries; and in place of the "masters,"
who were " looked up to " as su])eri()r beings, and were consulted
on all matters of law, physic and religion, there are teachers of
liberal culture, intelligent and ])rogressive, many of whom have a
broad and comprehensive idea of education, and regard their labor
as something more than teaching merely in order to make a living,
— more than a knowledge of a great number of facts in the uni-
verse of mind and matter. It means culture, the educating, devel-
oping and disci])lining of all the faculties of the human mind. It is
the comprehension of the entire being of liian ; and the school or
teacher who takes charge and care of the young should provide
the means and methods for carrying forward the process in all
departments of their comjilex natures, physical, mental and
s])iritual.
MARKETS.
The earliest settlers of the county went to St. Louis with what
little produce they had to sell, and the merchants bought all their
goods in that city. Soon, however, Peoria became a market, and pro-
duce was wagoned to that city and from there sent south on the river.
There was at that time no sale for corn, or comparatively none, and
wheat would bring but a small price; so that really there was no
impetus given to the raising of grain of any sort, except for home
consum])tion, until the advent of the railroad. At that time improev-
ment began. The great resources of the county which had scarcely
supplied more than home demand were then turned to supply the
wants of thousands. That occasion, the advent of railroads, was
the commencement of agricultural development. It was the com-
mencement of the manufacturing institutions the county can now
boast of; it was the building of her thriving cities and towns ;
indeed it was the beginning of ])rogress.
One of tlje earliest steam-boats in the Illinois-river trade was the
steamer " Exchange," which plied l)etween St. Louis and Peoria.
She was familiarly known as "the Shingle Weaver," so called from
the fact of her carrying upon her hurricane deck a machine for cut-
ting shingles, which was operated by the machinery of the boat,
cutting whenever the boat was in motion. Shingle timber w(tuld
be obtained at the wood-yards along the river, and market found
for the manufactured goods either at St. Louis or Peoria. This
328 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
boat was an especial favorite with the people of tins county, many of
whom would, when desiring to take a trip by river, wait for her
coming, and most of the early stocks of goods were shipped on her ;
she also carried most of the county's "beeswax" and other products
to their market.
" When the iirst settlers came to the wilderness," says an old set-
tler, "they all supposed that their hard struggle would be principally
over after the first year ; but alas ! we looked for ' easier times next
year ' for about ten years, and learned to bear hardships, privation
and hard living as good soldiers do. As the facilities for making-
money were not great, we lived ])retty well satisfied in an atmos-
phere of good, social, friendly feeling, and thought ourselves as good
as those we left behind when we emigrated West."
CHILLS AND FEVER.
One of the greatest obstacles to the early settlement and prosper-
ity of this county was the "chills and fever," or "ague," or " Illinois
shakes," as it was variously styled. This disease was a terror to
new comers. In the fill of the year everybody was afflicted with
it. It was no respecter of persons ; everybody shook \yith it, and
it was in pvery person's system. They all looked pale and yellow
as though they were frostbitten. It was not contagious, but was a
kind of miasma floating around in the atmosphere and absorbed
into the system. It continued to be absorbed from day to day, and
week to week, until the whole body corporate became charged with
it as with electricity, and then the shock came ; and the shock was a
regular shake, with a fixed beginning and an ending, coming on
each day, or each alternate day, with a regularity that was surpris-
ing. After the shake (^ime the fever, and this "last estate was
worse than the first." It was a burning, hot fever and lasted for
hours. When you had the chill you couldn't get warm, and when
you had the fever you couldn't get cool. It was exceedingly awk-
ward in this respect ; indeed it was. Nor would it sto]) for any sort
of contingency. Not even a wedding in the family would stop it.
It was imperative and tyranni(!al. When the appointed time came
around everything else had to be stopped to attend to its demands.
It didn't even have any Sunday or holidays. After the fever went
down you still didn't feel much better. You felt as though you had
g-one throuo;h some sort of collision and came out not killed but
badly demoralized. You felt weak, as though you had run too far
after something, and then didn't catch it. You felt languid, stupid
and sore, and was down in the mouth and heel and partially raveled
out, so to speak. Your back was out of fix and your appetite was
in a worse condition than your back. Your head ached and your
eyes had more white in tiiem than usual, and altogether you felt
poor, disconsolate and sad. You didn't think much of yourself,
and didn't believe other people did either, and you didn't care. You
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 827
didn't think much of suicide, l)ut at the same time you almost
made up your mind that under certain circumstances it was justi-
fiable. You imagined that even the dogs looked at you with a
kind of self-complacency. You thought the sun had a kind of
sickly shine about it. About this time you came to the conclusion
that you would not accept the whole State of Illinois as a gift, and
if you had the strength and means, you jucked up Hannah and the
baby and your traps, and went back "yander " to Injianny, Ohio, or
old Ka in tuck.
'■ And to-lay the swallows flitting
Rouml my rabin see nie sitting
Mocjilily within tiie sunshine,
Just inside my silent door,
Waiting for the ' ager,' seeming
Like a man forever dreaming ;
And the sunlight on me streaming-
Throws no shadow on the floor ;
For I am too thin and sallow
To make shadows on the floor —
Nary shadow any more I "
The above is no picture of the imagination. It is simply recount-
ing ^vhat occurred in hundreds of intances. Whole families would
some times be sick at one time, and not one member scarcely able to
wait u})(m another. One widow lady on the Illinois river informs
us that she lost nine children from this dreaded disease !
COOKING.
To witness the various processes of cooking in those days would
alike surprise and amuse those who have grown up since cooking-
stoves and ranges came into use. Kettles were hung over the large
fire, suspended on trammels which were held by strong poles. The
long-handled frying-pan was used for cooking meat. It was held on
the fire by hand; or, to save time, the handle was laid across the
back of a chair. This pan was also used for baking short-cake. A
better article was a cast-iron spider, which was set upon coals on
the hearth. But the best thing for baking bread was the flat-bot-
tomed bake-kettle, of greater dej)th, with closely fitting cast-iron
cover, and commonly known as the " Dutch oven." With coals
over and under it l)read and biscuit would quickly and nicely bake.
Turkeys and spare-ribs were sometimes roasted before the fire, sus-
pended by a string, a dish lacing ])laeed underneath to catch the
dri})pings.
IMPLEMENTS.
The agricultural implements used by the first farmers here would
in this age of improvement be great curiosities. The plow used
was called the bar-share plow. The iron point consisted of a bar
of iron about two feet long, and a broad share of iron welded to it.
At the extreme point was a coulter that passed through a beam six
or seven feet long, to which were attached handles of eorresjiond-
328 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
ing length. The mold-board was a wooden one split out of wind-
ing timber, or hewed into a winding shape in order to turn the soil
over. Sown seed was bruslied in by dragging over the ground a
sap])ling with a bushy top. Tn harvesting the change is most strik-
ing. Instead of the reapers and mowers of to-day, the sickle and
cradle were used. The grain was threshed with a flail, or trodden
out by horses or oxen.
avomp:n's w^ork.
The men were not called upon to endure alone all the hardships
and labor of frontier life. The women also had their physical labor
to perform, and much of it was quite arduous. Spinning was one
of the common household duties. This exercise is one which few
of the present generation of girls have ever enjoyed. The wheel
used for s})inning flax was called the " little wheel," to distinguish
it from the " big wheel " used for spinning yarn. These stringed
instruments furnished the principal music of the family, and were
operated by our mothers and grandmothers with great skill, attain-
ed without pecuniary expense, and with far less practice than is
necessary for the girls of our period to acquire a skillful use of their
costly and elegant instruments.
The loom was not less necessary than the wheel. Not every
house, however, in which spinning was done had a loom ; but there
were always some in each settlement who, besides doing their own
weaving, did some for others. Settlers, having succeeded in spite
of the wolves in raising sheep, commenced the manufacture of
woolen cloth ; wool was carded and made into rolls by hand-cards,
and the rolls were spun on the " big wheel." We occasionally find
noAV, in the houses, of the old settlers, one of these big wheels,
sometimes used for spinning and twisting stocking yarn. They are
turned with' the hand, and with such velocity that it will run itself
while the nimble worker, by her backward step, draws out and
twists her thread nearly the whole length of the cabin. A common
article woven on the loom was linsey, also called linsey-woolsey, the
chain being linen and the filling woolen. This cloth was used for
dresses for the girls and mothers. Nearly all the clothes worn by
the men were also home-made. Rarely was a farmer or his son seen
in a coat made of any other. If, occasionally, a young man appear-
ed in a suit of " boughten " clothes, he was suspected of having
gotten it for a particular occasion, which occurs in the life of nearly
every man.
Not until the settlers had supj)lie(l themselves with the more use-
ful articles of clothing and with edibles of various kinds, did wheat
bread become a common article of food. It is true they had it
earlier, but this was only served (Ui extra occasions, as when visitors
came, or on Sundays ; and with this luxury they would have a little
"store coffee." "The little brown jug" found a place in almost
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 329
every ' liome, and -was often brought into use. No caller was per-
mitted to leave the house' without an invitation to partake of its
contents.
PLEASURES OF PIONEER LIFE.
The historv of pioneer life generally presents the dark side of the
picture; but the toils and i)rivati()ns of the early settlers were not a
series of unmitigated sufferings. Xo ; for while the fathers and
mothers toiled liard, they were not averse to a little relaxation, and
liad their seasons of fun and enjoyment. They contrived to do
something; to break the monotony of their daily life and furnish
them a good, hearty laugh. Among the more general forms of
amusements were the " quilting-bee," "corn-husking," "apple-par-
ino;," '' loff-rolling " and "house-raising." Our young readers will
doubtless be interested in a description of these forms of amuse-
ment, when labor was made to afford fun and enjoyment to all ])ar-
ticipating. The "quilting-bee," as its name implies, was when the
industrious qualities of the busy, little insect, that "improves each
shining hour" were exemplified in the manufacture of quilts for the
household. In the afternoon ladies for miles around gathered at an
a])pointe(l ])lace, and while their tongues would not cease to play,
tlieir hands were as busily engaged in making the quilt ; and desire
was always manifested to get it out as quickly as possible, for then
tlie fun would begin. In the evening the gentlemen came, and the
hours would then pass swiftly by in playing games or dancing.
" Corn-huskings " were when both sexes united in the work. They
usually assembled in a large barn, which was arranged for the oc-
casion ; and when each gentleman had selected a lady partner the
luisking began. When a lady found a red ear she was entitled to
a kiss from every gentleman jiresent ; when a gentleman found on(»
he was allowed to kiss every lady present. After the corn was all
husked a good supper was served ; then the " old folks " would
leave, and the remainder of the evening was spent in the dance and
in having a general good time. The recreation afforded to the
young people on the annual recurrence of these festive occasions
was as highly enjoyed, and quite as innocent, as the amusements of
the present boasted age of refinement and culture.
Mr. Swan in describing the pioneer dwelling and habits and cus-
toms, says :
" The furniture of the cabin was as primitive as the occupants.
In one corner — perhaps in two or three corners — were the bed-
steads. These were your genuine 'cottage bedsteads,' made by bor-
ing one hole, say four feet from one corner of the cabin, into a
' house-log,' another hole, say six feet from the same corner, on
another side ; opposite these holes was set an upright post, usually
a section. from the body of a peeled sapling; in this post two holes
would be bored at any desired height, and at right angles Avith each
other ; poles were inserted in these holes, making in this manner a
330 HISTORY OF FULTON COFXTY.
square frame ; over this frame was laid a covering of clapboards, or,
as some denominated them, 'shakes/ and on top of this platform
the bed was spread. The chairs were not exactly chairs, but
three-legged stools or puncheon benches. The cupboard was
literally a cupboard, being a puncheon supported by pins driven
into holes in the house-log"^ at some convenient corner. The boxes
which had held the family dry goods while eii rotife to the new
country generally furnished the table, and a trough or troughs the
meat and soap barrels. Hollow logs sawed into sections and pro-
vided with a puncheon bottom furnished a receptacle for meal,
potatoes, beans, wheat, ' and sich like truck' — to ukjc the pioneer
vernacvdar. The table Avas bounteously supplied with ' samp,' ' ley
hominy,' ' corn pone,' honey, venison, pork, stewed pumpkin, wild
turkey, ])rairie chicken and other game. Wheat l)rcad, tea, coffee,
and fruit — exce])t wild fruit — were luxuries not to be indulged in
except on special occasions, as a wedding or gala day. 'Samp' was
quite a frequent dish. It was made by burning a hole into some
convenient stump in the shaj)e of a mortar; this hole was filled
with corn and pounded by a large i»estle hung like the old-fashioned
well-sweep pendent from a long ])ole, which was nearly balanced on
an ui)right fork. This ])olc had a weight attached to one end and
the pestle to the other; the weight would lift the pestle, while man-
ual f)rce was expected to bi'ing it down. When the ' sam]>' wa'^
]»oun<led sufHciently, it was \\ashed and boiled like rice.
"The traveler always found a welc<tme at the pioneer's cabin. It
was never full ; althcjugh there might already be a guest for every
puncheon, there was still 'room f()r one more,' and a wider circle
would be made for the new-comer at the log fire. If the stranger
was in search of land, he was doubly welcome, and his host would
volunteer to show him all the 'first-rate claims in this neck of
woods,' going with him for days, showing the corners and advan-
tages of everv 'Congress tract' within a dozen miles from his own
cabin.
"To his neighl)ors the pioneer was equally liheral. If a deer
was killed, the choicest bits were sent to his nearest neighbor, a
half-dozen miles away, perhaps. When a 'shoat' was butchered,
the same custom prevailed. If a new-comer came in too late for
'cropping,' the neighbors would supply his table with just the same
luxuries they themselves enjoyed, and in as liberal (piantity, until a
a crop could be raised. When a new-comer had located his
claim, the neighbors for miles around would assemble at the site of
the new-comer's proposed cabin and aid him in 'gittin' itu]).' One
partv with axes Avould fell and hew the logs ; another with teams
would ha\d the logs to the ground ; another party would 'raise the
cabin'; while several of the old men would 'rive the clapboards' for
the roof. By night the cabin would be uj) and ready for occupying,
and by the next day the new-comer was in all respects as well situ-
ated as his neighbors.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 331
"Saturday was a rcgnilar holiday, in which work was ijjnored and
everybody went t) town or to some place of general resort. When
all were together in town, sport began. Of course Avhisky circula-
ted freely and every body indulged to a greater or less extent.
(Quarrels were now settled by hand-to-hand encounters ; wrestling-
matches came off or were arranged for the future; jumping, foot-
racing, and horse-racing filled up the interval of time ; and every-
body enjoyed the rough sports with a zest unknown among the
more refined denizens of the present good city of Canton.
"The fleetest runner among the pioneers was Stephen Coleman;
the champion wrestler was Daniel Babbett ; while at fisti-cuffs the
belt was contested for between Stephen Coleman and Emsley Fonts.
C(deman and Fonts were nearly equally matched, and on several
occasions waged des])erate war, with varying fortunes, until thev
held their last great battle, which will never be forgotten by the
pioneers. It was on election day, in the fall of 1831. For weeks
before it was understood that they were to fight. On election day,
accordingly, they met on Union street, in front of Tyler's Tavern,
and, surrounded by an immense crowd of their respective friends,
proceeded to settle their difficulty. The fight was fierce, long, and
bloody. Coleman, it was claimed, struck Fonts before he was en-
tirely divested of his coat, and bv this means beo;an with the ad-
vantage in his favor, which advantage he was able to maintain until
Fonts, after a gallant struggle, was forced to yield. Coleman's
friends raised him on their shoulders, and marched with him a tri-
umphal march to the j>ublic square and back.
"Fonts was defeated, but, as he believed, not fairly, and he de-
termined to renew the contest on another occasion. This was also
understood, and the final struggle was looked forward to by the
settlers with even more expectant interest than the first. Accord-
ingly, a few weeks later, one Saturday, Fonts came to town for the
purpose of meeting Coleman, He stopped at Dickev Johnson's,
where he left his coat and put himself in fighting trim. Johnson
accompanied him to town and acted as his friend and second. Fonts
soon met Coleman, and informed him that he had come to town ex-
pressly to settle their little trouble. Coleman began to draw his
leather coat, but before it Avas ofi^ Fonts took the same advantage
Coleman had taken in the previous fight, and struck him. This
advantage was all he desired, and vigorously did he follow it up.
Coleman was not easily handled, however, and soon was stripped
and in fighting trim. The fight was a des])crate one, and it was
soon apparent that neither would acknowledge defeat. Fonts, how-
ever, had so well followed up his advantage that Coleman's friends
parted them, and ever after neither could be induced to attack the
other.
"Foot-racing, jumping, and wrestling were also indulged in on
Saturdays, and among the pioneers were men of .fleet foot, strong-
arm, and sinewy limb, John Anderson, a saddler who worked for
332
HISTORY OF FULTON COUXTY.
Bryant L. Cook, was credited with the fleetest foot prior and up to
the storm of 1835 ; while Alexander Cumming, a brother-in-law of
Jacob Weaver, was said to excel all others in juni2:)in!u:;. In 1830
and immediately succeeding years John Scurlock and Abram Put-
man were the champion runners, and Putman the champion jumper.
Occasionally the sport Mould be varied by a horse-race, while
whisky and jokes were freely indulged in. Some of these pioneers
were rare old jokers, too. The point of their jokes would some
times rub a raw place in their victim, but for that so much the
better."
^
V"
PUTMAN Tf ^
LEE TP
-oC^J^"^
OF THE
UMVfHSlTY Of ILLINOIS.
CHAPTER XI.
ARCHAEOLOGY.
Perhaps no district of country in the West contains more of the
traces of that mysterious pre-historic people known to us only as
the "Mound-Builders" than does Fulton county. There is not a
township of land in the county which does not contain more or less
of these traces, and in some of them arc works which in extent and
character will compare with any in the West.
These works of the Mound-Builders here are of four different
classes: 1. Mounds, varying in size from two or three feet in
diameter to immense pyramids, like one near Waterford, containing
over an acre of ground, and of an altitude of over forty feet in its
original condition, and the one in Otter Creek Valley near Otto,
which looks in the distance like an immense hay-rick and is over
two hundred feet long and between forty and fifty feet high ; 2.
Excavations usually circular, in regular lines in most cases, some
small, others of great size and considerable depth ; 3. Regular for-
tifications, square, elliptical, or following the accidental configura-
tion of the ground ; 4. Terraced hills.
One of the most interesting pre-historic points in the county is
located on sections 31 and 32 in Kerton township. Here, on the
summit of a high blulf, is a field on the land of a Mr. Fisher, knoAvn
as the " Mound field," containing, perhaps, twenty-five acres, that
may properly be called a city of the dead. In this field there is a
level space of five or six acres enclosed by two rows of circular,
cup-shaped depressions, inside of which is one large mound which
must originally have been thirty or forty feet high. To the south
of this level the bluff" line, with its indentations, forms the border
of the field, and here are the remains of not less than one hundred
and fifty thousand human beings buried literally by the cord !
Where the bluff" begins to descend, it appears as though a step had
been cut with the bluff face not less than ten feet high, and here
were corded skeletons laid as one would cord wood, but with the
bodies arranged just as one would preserve the level of the file
best without regard to direction. This burial place follows the
bluff' line for some distance, where the skeletons appear to have
been covered by a peculiar light-colored clay, which must have been
brought from a considerable distance, as it is not found in the locali-
ty. There are also two pits near the brow of the bluff on the side-
21
336 lllriTOliV OF FLLTUN COUNTY.
hill, which appear to have been (triginally about forty feet in diam-
eter and of jjreat depth, which have been walled uj) i)v placing
skeletons around the outside, as one would wall a well, coveriui: the
work with the same clay as in the other burial place. These skele-
tons are excellently preserved, in many cases the smallest processes
of bone beini; in as sound a condition as though buried but a year
ago. Over the entire surface of this field — which is in cultivation
— the human hand canu.tt l)e placed without ])lacing it on broken
pottery, bones or shells.
At one point near the large mound an area of about two acres,
which is evidently a " kitchen midden," or refuse heap, covered
with broken j)ieces of the bones of animals, broken household uten-
sils and broken tools, to a considerable dej)th. In this refuse heap
are the bones of nearly every animal known to have inhabited this
country. Back of the square spoken of are a considerable num-
ber of ordinary mounds, arranged without much regard to order.
Just oi)posite and north of Duncan's mill, on the north blufP of
Spoon river, are extensive and in many respects singular remains
extending for two or three miles. After leaving the Spoon river
bridge going north on the Lewistown road, one observes running
nearly parallel witii the j)resent road what ai)|)ears to be an old dis-
used road going up the bluil'. A closer inspection discloses a ridge
of earth several feet in height, extending from near the foot of the
blutf to very near the summit, with a dei)ression running j)arallel
with it. On the crown of the blutit' are mounds of earth. built out
from the brow of the hill, not elevated above the surface level but as
though they were dumps of earth for some projected railroad. These
mounds continue close together for nearly a mile; on the blutf
back of them runs a low ridge of earth which follows the tortuous
outline of (he bluff, and still back of this ridge circular depressions,
some of which are fully fifty feet in diameter and from three to five
feet deep. Xear this line of works is a low natural ridge on the top
of which an earth-work exists, being an artificial atldition to the
ridge, building it uj) for a distance of two hundred yards, fully
thirty feet higher than the natural elevation of the ridge. From
the north end of this ridge the same class of uKUinds and embank-
ment spoken of again apjH'ar, extending nearly a mile further uj) the
river bluff.
In these mounds — which are in the woods — considerable excavat-
ing has l)cen done in a desultory way, and many objects of interest
exhumed, among which are wedges of hardened copper, — stone
turned into the shaj)e of a sleeve-button with a long shank, and
plated with (!oj)j)cr as skillfully as a modern jeweler could jdate with
silver. These works do not apjK^ar to have been purely (lefensive,
as but few imi)lcments of warfare are found in or al)out them, while
domestic tools and implements of peace are found in great abund-
ance.
In Bernadotte township on the Dyckes farm is a low hill, ellip-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 337
tical ill form, which is terraced in a .singular manner. All around
the side of the hill at the same elevation is a terrace perhaps twelve
feet wide, and rising from this a second terrace about four feet high.
These terraces are uniform, of the same height, width and grade,
with places on the upper terrace where the hill has been leveled back
a few feet in a circular form. Near this terraced hill are the remains
of ancient pottery works, the mis-shaped and over-burned fragments
filling the side of a hill fn- an area of one or two acres. North of
the village of Bernadotte about one mile there is an elliptical ditch
which appears to have been a fortification, containing within the
ditch fifty or sixty acres of ground. This ditch, although the plow
has aided in filling it for years, is still quite deep and clearly defined.
Near this place a stone was observed projecting from the earth, and
parties guided by the dictum of a spiritual medium dug it up expect-
ing to find buried treasure under it; but did find a flat stone hearth
at a depth of several feet, on which were fragments of burned wood
and charcoal, showing that it had been used for fire.
At AVaterford and in its vicinity are a great many ancient mounds,
one of which is pyramidal with a road up the east side. There
are also several ancient burial places near here, but none on so
extensive a scale as that in Kerton township.
Liverpool township is also rich in pre-historic remains, including
several very large mounds ; and some artificial hill terraces at Pol-
litt's farm above the plank road, one on quite an extensive scale.
One of the most interesting archaeological relics in this county are
the ancient furnaces, evidently for the working of ores or metal.
One of these in Kerton township was discovered by citizens engaged
in cutting a road-way around a side hill. This furnace was built
up with rock laid up in a circular form, and was surrounded by
scorisB and some metallic slag. There are several other furnaces of
the kind in the county, one of which, on the old Dilworth farm in
Farmer's township, shows by its immense quantity of cinder, coal,
clinkers and metallic scoriae that extensive works of some kind
were carried on here with coal for the fuel supply.
Just north of Seville, on a bluff of Spoon river, are quite exten-
sive Nvorks supposed to be defensive in their character, but which
have not been fully investigated. Near London Mills in Young
Hickory township, are quite extensive works, mostly mounds,
which have received but little attention. In fact there is scarcely a
stream in the county the banks and i>lufl's of which do not show
traces of prehistoric po])ulation.
The mounds in this county are evidently of three classes : Sacred
mounds, which were used for the sacrificial fires ; burial mounds,
which were erected over the last remains of important personages ;
and mounds which were used for domestic habitations. In the lat-
ter class hearths are frequently found, and domestic utensils. These
were probably residences similar to those of some tribes of our
present Indians. First, poles or logs set up in a circle, then covered
338 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
with brush or grass, and the whole with earth to a considerable
depth. The sacrificial mounds always contain burnt earth, burnt
bones and frequently, too, the charred bones of human beings. In
the burial mounds only the bones of a few persons are found, prob-
ably of some chief and his immediate family, and usually near them
are utensils of the kitchen, arrows, pottery and such articles as were
most prized in life by the departed.
In some localities immense shell heaps exist, while it is not
uncommon to find in a mound shell from the sea, notably the conch
shell and sea periwinkles, the latter very common. Implements of
both hardened copper and copper in its soft state are often found,
and a metal resembling iron in color and texture, but hard enough
to cut glass, and which resists the action of almost all the acids.
The writer has specimens of this metal which show under the action
of acid only that copper enters into their composition. No file will
affect this substance, yet it yields readily to the grindstone and can
be sharpened to carry a fine but brittle edge. This metal was prob-
ably a composition of copper and one or two other metals, tempered
by a process not now known to the scientific world. Xorman But-
ler, a blacksmith in Toulon, Stark county, 111., one day in 1853
accidentally tempered brass so that it would turn a file, — an experi-
ment which he never afterward could successfully imitate.
That these Mound-Builders were not of the same race as our
Indians, is at once apparent from the bones of the latter being of
a reddish hue, while those of the Mound-Builders are of a differ-
ent shade and much larger. Dr. Schenck, of Duncan's Mills, has
a large collection of these prehistoric bones collected with especial
reference to diseased bones and surgery. Some of these specimens
show fractures which have been set with considerable skill ; some
indeed which would not disgrace the average surgery of this age.
Some of these skeletons belonged to men who were giants, some over
seven feet high ; some have skulls equal to the average European
skull in shape and brain capacity, while the general average is much
superior to the Indian or negro skull.
It is our opinion that the Mound-Builders were a pastoral
people who had made considerable progress in civilization.
In the winter, doubtless, they drove their flocks and herds to the
bluffs and rich, sheltered bottoms where they could obtain shelter,
and in the summer drove them to the prairies for pasturage. Doubt-
less, like the Chinese of to-dav^^ thev esteemed their native hills
sacred and sought to be buried there no matter where the iron hand
of death overtook them ; and their friends, respecting this
desire, were in the habit of bringino; the bones of each familv or
tribe to these sacred burial places, after they had been stripped of
their flesh, for permanent burial.
Perhaps some future archieologist will delve among these ancient
ruins and find a key to the mystery of the builders of whom we to-
day know next to nothing ; and unless some means are taken by the
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
339
Government or societies organized for the purpose, and these meas-
ures at no distant day, they will have become so far obliterated by
the plow and by unskilled diggers that the slight clues they con-
tain will be buried in an oblivion greater than now enshroud the
history of their builders.
s
CHAPTER XII.
MEXICAN WAR.
When war was deelared against Mexico in 1846 by oiir Govern-
ment, enlistment of troops immediately l)egan all over the conntry,
but nowhere was greater promptitude manifested than in Fulton
county. Several other companies were raised and offered beside
the one accepted, but were refused by the Governor, the quota of the
State being already more than filled. Capt. Lewis W. Ross raised
Co. K, tendered it to the Governor, and it was accepted and assigned
to the Fourth regiment. Col. Ed. D. Baker commanding. The
company was mustered in at Alton July 4, 1846, and moved to Jef-
ferson Barracks, Mo., and then proceeded to the front, where no
company did more valiant service for our country than Companv K,
of Fulton county. Veterans never fought more nobly or effectively
than did the volunteers to the Mexican war from this county. Their
brave commander, Col. Baker, won for himself and men a never-
perishing name.
At the gk:»rious capture of Vera Cruz and the not less famous
storming of Cerro Gordo, these troops did valiant service. In the
latter action, when, after the brave Gen. Shields had been placed
hors de combat, the command of his force, consisting of three regi-
ments, devolved upon Col. Baker, this officer with his men stormed
with unheard-of prowess the last stronghold of the Mexicans,
sweeping everything before them. Such, indeed, were the intrepid
valor and daring courage exhibited by Illinois volunteers during
the Mexican war, that their deeds should live in the memory of
posterity through future ages.
Many of the veterans of this war enlisted a few years later to
defend the same old flag from the insults of a domestic foe that
thev had so bravelv against a foreign one. Amono- them were Col.
Baker, who fell at Ball's Bluff, and Lieutenant Boss, who became
Brigadier General and won laurels that will wreath his name with
honor for generations after he has passed from earth.
The Company was mustered out at New Orleans, La., May 26,
1847, and returned to their homes and resumed the various occupa-
tions which they had quit a year previous to defend our country.
In rumaging through the old records and papers on file and
stowed awav in the Countv Clerk's office we were fortunate enouo;h
to find a complete official muster roll of the men of this company,
which we give below.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
341
In the list e. stands for enlisted, m. o. for mustered out, res. for
resigned, dis. for disability, and disch. for discharged.
4tli REGT. ILL. INF. VOL.
COMPANY K.
Captain.
Lewis W. Ross, e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26, '47.
First Lieutenants.
Geo. W. Stipp, e. July 4,'46, res. Aug. ."0,'4G.
Leonard F. Ross, e. July 18,'46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Second Lieutenants.
John B. McDowell, e. July 4, '46, res. Aug. 30,'46.
Robert Johnson, e. July 4, '46. res. Dee. 20,'46.
Joseph L. Sharp, e. July 4,'46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Sergeants.
Marvin Scudder, e. July 4,'46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Stephen B. Webb, e. July 4,'46, died at Matta-
moras, Oct. 24, '46.
Robert Carter, e. July 4,'46, disch. Nov. 9,'46,
dis.
Samuel D. Revnolds, e. Julv 4, '46, m. o. Mav
26. '47.
:Milton C. Dewey, e. July 4,'46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Jas. B. Anderson, e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Corporals.
Thomns W. Head, e. Julv 4, "46, disch. Nov. 26,
'46. dis.
Tracy Stroiid, e. July 4. '46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Jas. \V. Anderson, e" Julv 4, '46, m. o. Mav 26,
'47.
Edward Brannon e. July 10, '46. m. o. May 26, '47.
Siuioon Cannon, e. July 4,'46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Jas. Dunsmore, e. July 4, '46, died Oct. i,'46, at
Matamoras.
Privates.
Ackerson, Garrett, e. July 4, '46, m.o. May 26, '47.
Andrews, Hanuon, e. Julv 4,'46, m. o. Mav 26,
'47.
Bennington, Geo., e. July 4, '46, mo. o. Mav 26,
47.
Bervard, John, e. July 4,'46, ditch. Dec. 20,'46,
dis.
Beadles, 'Wm., e. Julv 4, '46, di.sch. Mar. 7. '47,
dis.
Bristow, Isaac M., e. Julv 18. '46, ra. o. Mav26,'47
Clark, David, e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Crittenden, Uriah, e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26, '47
Crawford, Jas., e. July 4,"'46, ra. o. May 26, '47.
("ollins, David, c. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Carter, Simeon, e. July 2.'46, m. o. May 26.'47.
CooTi, Ross, e. July 4'46, m. o. May 26, '27.
Cannon, John, e. Julv4,'46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Carter John S. S., e. July 4,, 46, died Oct. 27, '46,
at Carmago.
Dalley, Chas., e. July4,'46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Dobson, Joseph, e. July 4. '46, disch. Feb. 8,'47'
dis.
Dobbins, John F. P., e. Julv 4,'46, disch. Nov.
9, '46, dis.
Deiter, John, e. July4,'46, disch. Aug. 24,'46,
dis.
Deiter. Joel, e. July 4,'46, disch. Aug. 24,'46, dis.
Ellis, John, e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Ellis, Jacob, e. Julv 4,'26, m. o. Mav 2(;,'47.
Engle, Wm, H., e. July 4, '26, m. o."Mav 26,'47.
Foot, Zach., e. Julv 4, '46, m. o. Mav 26,''47.
Freeborn. Philip T., July 4,'46, m. 6. May26,'47.
Fitzpatrick, Michael, e. July4,'46, m.o. May
26, '47.
Gregory, Jesse, July 20,'46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Hoover, Richard e.July 20, '46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Hannum, Joshua B., e. Julv 4, '46, ra. o. May
26, '47.
Kelly, Ephraim, e. Julv 20, '46, disch. Sept. 18,
'46, dis.
King, Horace B., e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Kimball, Myron, e. July 4, '46, m. o. May26,'47.
Lyon, Ely, e. July 4, '46," m. o. May 26,'47.
Land, John, e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Mason, Wra. C, e. July 18,'46, disch. Aug. 30,
'46, dis.
McNeil, Malcolm, e. July is, '46, disch. Oct. 8,
'46, dis.
McKee, Patrick, e. July 18,'46, disch. dis.
Monroe, Thomas, e. Jiilv 20, '46, disch. Feb. 8,
'47 dis.
Morton, Richard W., e. Julv 4, '46, ra. o. May
26, '47.
Mayall, Joseph, e. Julv 4,'46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Milslagle, Elias, e. July 4,'46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Moovor, William, e. July 4, '46. m. o. ilay 26, '47.
Myers, Jonas H., e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26,'47.
jSlurphy, Wm., e. Julv '20,'46, m. o. Mav 26, '47.
Patton, Hugh, e. July 4,'46, m. o. ISIay 26,'47.
Painter, Wm., e. July 4,'46, disch. Nov. 9,'46,
dis.
Pig. John,e. July 20, '46, disch. Sept. 26,'46, dis.
Powell, Andrew M., July 4, '46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Reid, John H., July 4. '46, m. o. May 26,''47.
Rigdon, Stephen, e. Julv 4, '46, ra. o." Mav26"47.
Ross, Pike C, e. July 4.'46, ra. o. Mav 26,'47.
Shields, David, e. Jiily 4, '46, m. o. M"ay 26,'47.
Sieele, John, e. July 4','46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Smith, James H., e. July 4, '46, m. o. May 26, '47.
Smith, David, e. July 4','46, m. o. May 26,'47.
Stevenson, Thomas,"e. July 20,'46, in. o. May
26. '47.
Turner, Oren, e. Julv 20, '46, disch. 8, '46, dis.
Tavlor, Julius J., e. .Julv 4, '46, ra. o. May 26,'47.
Wilson, Samuel, B., e. Julv 4,'46, disch, Oct. 4,
'46, dis.
Yaw, Alonzo, e. July 4, '46, died Sept. ]0,'46.
CHAPTER XIII.
THE REBELLION.
FIEST I^'DICATIO^'S OF THE WAR.
When, in 1861, the war was forced upon the country, the people
were quietly pur.'suiug the even tenor of their ways, doing whatever
their hands found to do, — working the mines, making farms or culti-
vating those already made, establishing homes, founding cities and
towns, building shops and manufactories ; in short, the country was
alive with industry and hopes for the future. The people were just
recovering from the depression and losses incident to the financial
panic of 1857. The future looked bright and promising, and the
industrious and patriotic sons and daughters of the North were
buoyant with hope, looking forward to the perfecting of new plans
for comfort and competence in their declining years. They little
heeded the mutterings and threatenings wafted from the South.
They never dreamed that there was one so base as to attempt the
destruction of the Union their fathers had purchased for them with
their life-blood. "While thus surrounded with peace and tranquillity
they paid but little attention to the rumored plots and plans of those
who lived and grew rich from the sweat and toil, blood and flesh,
of others.
The war clouds grew darker and still darker, the thunders of
treason grew louder and louder until April 12, 1861, when the fear-
ful storm burst upon the country and convulsed a continent with
its attendant horrors.
On that day the rebels, who for weeks had been erecting their
batteries upon the shore, after demanding of Major Anderson a
surrender, opened fire upon Fort Sumter. For hours an incessant
cannonading was continued ; the fort was being damaged severely ;
provisions were almost gone, and Major Anderson was compelled to
haul down the stars and stripes, — that dear old flag which had sel-
dom been lowered to a foreitrn foe ; bv rebel liands it was now
trailed in the dust. How the blood of patriotic men of the ]Sorth
boiled when on the followinof dav the news was flashed along the
telegraph wires that Major Anderson had been forced to surrender I
And nowhere was greater indignation manifested than in Fulton
countv.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 343
THE FIRST CALL FOR TROOPS.
Immediately upon the surrender of Fort Sumter, Abraham Lin-
coln, America's martyr President, — who but a few short weeks before
had taken the oath of office as the nation's chief executive, — issued
a proclamation calling for 75,000 volunteers for three months. The
last word of that proclamation had scarcely been taken from the
electric wires before the call was filled, and men and money were
counted out by hundreds and thousands. The people who loved
their whole government could not give enough. Patriotism thrilled
and vibrated and pulsated through every heart. The farm, the
workshop, the office, the pulpit, the bar, the bench, the college, the
school-house, — every calling offi?red its best men, their lives and
fortunes, in defense of the Government's honor and unity. Bitter
words spoken in moments of political heat were forgotten and for-
given, and, joining hands in a common cause, they repeated the oath
of America's soldier statesman, " By tJte (rreat Eternal, the Union
must and shall he preserved."
Call the young men in the prime of their life;
Call them from mother, from sister, from wife ;
Blessed if they live, revered if they fall, —
They who respond unto Liberty's call.
Seventy-five thousand men were not enough to subdue the Rebel-
lion ; nor were ten times the number. The w^ar went on, and call
followed call, until it began to look as if there would not be men
enough in all the Free States to crush out and subdue the monstrous
war traitors had inaugurated. But to every call for either men or
money there was a willing and ready response ; and it is a boast of
the people that, had the supply of men fallen short, there were
women brave enough, daring enough, patriotic enough, to offer
themselves as a sacrifice on their country's altar. Such were the
impulses, motives and actions of the patriotic men of the North,
among whom the sons of Fulton made a conspicuous and praise-
worthy record.
VARIOUS mp:etings held in the county.
The tocsin of war was sounded, meetings w^ere held in every
township, village and city, at which stirring and spirited addresses
were made, and resolutions adopted admitting of but one interpre-
tation,— that of unconditional allegiance and undying devotion to
their country and their country's flag ; that, at whatever cost of blood
or treasure, the stars and stripes, wherever floating, must be honor-
ed ; and the supremacy of the law of the National Union sustained.
A meeting was held at Canton, April 20, 1801, at the old Con-
gregational church. Ira Johnson was called to the chair, and
stated the object of the meeting to be, to express the feelings of the
people in regard to the difficulties then in our country, and to re-
spond to the call of Gov. Yates for military force to aid the
344 HISTOKV OF FULTON COUNTY.
Forleral Governmpnt in sustainin<r tlie laws. The ''Stnr-S])ano;locl
]^annor " was effectively suii_n' by a iiumber of yctiinti- ladies, after
which the military hand rendered several national airs with good
spirit. A committee of iive was then ai)j)ointed to draft resolutions
exj)ressivc of the sense of the meeting. This committee Avas com-
|>(tsed of the following gentl(Mnen : John W. Ingersoll, W. II.
Haskell, William liabccick, (J. W. Fast and Tracy Stroud. The
meeting was then addressed by lion. William Kellogg, W. H.
Haskell and James PI. Stij)]). Ivcsolutions were adopted, which
showed this people to be patriotic and ready to sacriiice all for the
Union. After this an op]K)rtuiiity was given for enlistments, and
forty names were enr(»lle(l.
At the court-house in LcwMstown, on Tuesday evening, April 23,
a meeting was held with George Humphrey in the chair. The com-
mittee on resolutions were H. B. Evans, R. B. Stevenson, M. Eich-
elberger, S. V. Shope, L. W. James, James Hasson and Hubert
Cam[)l)ell. The meeting, which resolved to support the Govern-
ment, was addressed bv L. F. Ross, R. R. McDowell, M. S. Kind:)all,
L. W. Ross and S. C." Judd.
A large and enthusiastic; meeting of the citizens of Farmington
was held Saturday evening, April 20, for the purpose of discussing
the condition of the country. A. K. Montgomery ])resided, and
Dr. J. Gregory acted as secretary. The following resolutions were
adopted with but one dissenting voice:
AVhereas, events have lately transpired which call for all .aood citizens to
express in what estimation they hold tlie institutions of Americans and Amer-
ican liherty, therefore
Remhcd, That when the Government of the United States is attacked, we
can recognize no distinction between the foreign and the domestic foe.
Remhed, That since forbearance has ceased to call the traitors of the South
to fealty to the Government, we heartily apjirove of the measures rectMitly
taken by the administration, choosing ratlier to bear the burdens of a just war
than to enjoy the ease under an ignominious peace.
licsolrcd, Tiiat we will freely assist, with all the means in our i)ower, the ef-
forts of the Government to viuuiuisii traitors, whether at home or at)road,
Resolml, That we are firmly and devotedly attached to the United States, and
to the flag under which our "fatluTs fought;" ami, wi- lierehy pledge our lives,
our fortunes and our sacred honor to sustain the one and defend the other.
Similar meetings were held in all parts of the county, and resolu-
tions, full of ])atriotisni and devotion to the country and the old flag,
were sent forth as the sentiment and voice of the people.
Immediately, in response to the call for troops, enlistments began.
As early as April 30 a company of 100 was organized at Canton.
They drilled in the city for some tlays,and so impatient were they to
strike a blow in defense of the dear old flag which had been trampled
beneath the feet of traitors at Sumter, that they wanted to be oft'
immediately to the scene of conflict. jSIany of them were afraid
thev would not "get to go." They little reaJized the magnitude of
the war.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUXTY. 345
A meeting- was held Saturday evening, April 27, for the purpose
of making arrangements to raise subscriptions for the benefit of this
company, to equip it, etc. J. G. Piper was elected president and C.
C. Dewey secretary. Hon. A. C. Babcock, G. W. Fast, S. C. Thorp,
J. W. Ingersoll, H. P. Fellows, J. H. Dorranee, B. F. Rubk^, T.
Atwater, G. W. Hardesty and P. C. Stearns were appointed a com-
mittee to procure subscriptions. This company was named the Ful-
ton Volunteers. Wm. Babcock was elected Captnin, L. C. Chase
First Lieutenant, Wm. Ti'ites Second Tvieut(Miant and J. H. Dorranee
Third Ivieutenant.
While the above company was being raised at Canton, a company
was gotten up at Lewistown with L. F. Ross as Captain, T. A. Boyd
First Lieutenant and A. Willison Second Lieutenant. This com-
pany was originally the " Fulton Blues," and was organized about
the year 1857, by Capt. Leonard F. Ross. On Monday, Ajjril 29,
it was permanently re-organized for the U. S. service and was after-
wards transferred to the 17th Regiment as Co. H.
At Vermont a company was organized, and Thomas Hamer w^as
elected Captain, Josiah Dennis First Lieutenant, and Hinman
Rhodes Second Lieutenant.
A company was also rai-^ed at Fairview, which left for Camp
Mather, Peoria, May 15. Before leaving their homes, however,
they were presented with a fine flag by the ladies of Fairview. They
were accompanied to Peoria by the Fairview Brass Band. It was
noised around Canton that this company, after being in camp, needed
flannel shirts ; and within a few days 75 shirts were made and sent
to them.
On Friday morning. May 10, 1861, the Fulton Blues left Lewis-
town for camp at Peoria. The public s(]u;ire was filled with citizens
to witness the flag presentation and departure of the company.
Capt. Ross marched the boys to the residence of Dr. R. R. McDowell,
where each of them was provided with a flannel shirt, made for them
by the ladies of Lewistown. Each and every man was also pre-
sented with a copy of the New Testament, accompanied by the re-
quest to write therein his name and age, and name of his father,
guardian or other member of his family, with place of residence.
At nine o'clock the company was paraded in front of the court-
house, where a large number of ])co]>le had gathered. H. B. Evans
was chosen to preside over the assembly. He called the large con-
course of people to order, and on behalf of the ladies Dr. McDowell
presented to the company a beautiful flag. Capt. Ross received the
colors with pledges that they should not be disgraced, and handed
them to Ensign Woolfolk, who received them in the name of the
company. The brass band played and three cheers were given for
the ladies. The company took their places in the wagons, receiving
meanwhile the sorrowing farewells of their friends. They were then
driven to Havana, where a boat was taken for Peoria.
346 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
The Fulton Lip;ht-Horse Invincibles were organized Tuesday
May 7, '(51, l)y C'apt. W. A. Presson.
Other companies were raised. Call after call was made by the
Government and each time Fulton county nobly responded. While
some thought the policy of the administration wrongful and hurtful,
and that the desired end might be attained in a more conciliatory
manner tiian by the stern and bloody arbitrament of war, yet the
majority believed their only recourse was a resort to arms.
DEATH OF SENATOR D0UC4LAS.
While tlie people throughout the State were busily engaged in
preparing for the war, the sad news of the death of her beloved
Senator, Stephen A. Douglas, was announced. Funeral services
were held in almost all towns of this county upon the death of this
distinguished statesman. At Canton, Thursday, June 6th, 1861, a
meetino- was held at Graham's Hall to make suitable arranocnients
for ceremonies. S. A. Gee, \Vm. Kellooo- P. L. Snvder and James
T. Slack were appointed a committee of arrangements. G. Barrere,
Thomas Snyder, W. H. Haskell, Dr. Henry Ingersoll and S. Y.
Thornton were selected as a committee to draft resolutions. On
Friday, as for several days previous, the flag was bound in black and
displayed at half-mast. Shortly before two o'clock p. m. the
bells commenced tolling, and continued while a procession was
formed uj)on the public square, headed by the Canton Silver Cor-
net Band and Masonic Lodge. It marched to the Baptist church,
where the fc^llowing exercises took place under the direction of T.
Stroud, chief marshal and master of ceremonies. Hon. John G.
Graham was called to the chair and Messrs. P. L. Snyder, Ira John-
son, S. N. Breed, Dr. Henry Ingersoll, J. M. Bass and G. Barrere
were chosen vice ])residents; S. Y. Thornton and Alpheus Davison,
secretaries. Prayer was then offered by Rev. Dr. Webb, which was
followed by singing by a choir organized for the occasion under the
direction of Mr. E. P. Ingersoll, Mrs. Law presiding at the instru-
ment. Resolutions fitting and full of sorrow at the loss of the great
Senator were passed. Wni. H, Haskell then delivered an oration upon
the life and services of Mr. Douglas. Hon. Wm. Kellogg made
a brief address. He was followed by John G. Graham, S. A. Gee,
G. Barrere and J. T. Slack. The b(>nediction was pronounced by
Rev. P. Bergstresser, and thus endcnl the services of respect to a
great and beloved statesman.
A PICTURE OF A SAD AND DESOLATE HOME.
The boys went forth to the field of carnage ; and what vivid words
can the pen employ that will do justice to their heroic valor, to their
une(iualed and unparalleled bravery and endurance? Home and
home comforts, wives and little otics, fathers, mothers, sisters, broth-
ers, were all given uj) for lilc and danger on the lields of battle, — for
•m.-»^J-I'
< l.lli lliJ.....l^V«wC^
HISTORY OV FULTON COUNTY. 347
exposure, fatigue, disease and death at the point of the bayonet or
the cannon's mouth. But while they were thus suffering let us not
suppose that the mother, and sister, the wife, the children were free
from the tortures of anxiety, of the loss of dear ones. Yes; while
the brave boys upon the Southern field suffered indescribably, the
wife and little ones at home endured sufferings beyond the power of
pen or tongue to describe. Let us picture a home where the hus-
band and the wife and the little ones are thus separated. The picture
of one will only reflect those of hundreds of others. We look into
the plain but tidy room. A mother is preparing her evening meal.
Upon a chair, and leaning her little arm on the window-sill, a little
child is kneeling, looking fur into the dusky shadows that encircle
the brow of night. Her dark eyes have a longing, desolate look,
and on her brow lies one of life's shadows. At last she speaks :
"Oh, mamma, papa has been gone so long! why don't he come?"
The mother sighs and her heart repeats, "So long?" But the little
one must have an answer, and mamma tries to comfort her: "Papa has
gone to war, dear; gone to fight fi)r his country; and when the war
is over he will come back to see mamma and little Bessie."
"But it seems so long, mamma ! When will the war be over?"
"Mamma cannot tell, dear; but we will hope for the best."
Their frugal meal is now ready, and mother and child sit down
with heavy hearts, their eyes wandering to the place where papa used
to sit; but there is no manly form, — only a vacant chair.
In the mother's heart sad questions will arise : "Will he return to
us? or will some swift-winged bullet, sped by a traitor's hand, de-
stroy the life so dear to us?"
Oh, why could not all men have been true to a government so
mild, — to their country so vast and grand? Why should they cause
sorrow and death to o'er-spread our land, and the voice of wailing
to go forth from every fireside ? In silence the meal is ended, and
the little one, whose eyes have grown heavy, is taken upon the
mother's lap, and prepared for rest. Her little prayer is said, and
a good-night kiss given for papa. She falls asleep, and the shadow
is chased from her brow. But the shadows hover darkly round the
mother's heart, as she thinks of distant battle-fields ; of wounded and
dying men whose lives, and those they love more than life, have
been given up that their country might be saved. And on this
September evening a terrible battle has closed. For three daysthev
have fought, and now the evening shadows unite with clouds of
smoke, and our army is victorious ; but the ground is strewn with
the dead and dying. Hark ! here is one who speaks : "Water, wa-
ter; won't Bessie bring me water?" But Bessie's soft hands cannot
reach him; kind but rougher and stranger hands give him the cool-
ing drops, and with a weary sigh for his home, wife and litth^ one,
his breath is gone, and the brave heart beats no more.
Rumors of the terrible fight reach that quiet home ; then come
dispatches, making rumors facts. How long and dark are the hours
•348 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
of suspense to the anxious wife and little one ! Eagerlv the papers
are watched for every word concerning the division in which was
the loved one, and now at last comes a list of the killed and wound-
ed in his regiment. AVith fast-beating heart the pcior wife takes the
list of wounded tirst, that she may still have some hope. His name
is not there. With hushed breath and heart beating faster, she scans
the list of the killed, until she comes to his name. The paper falls
from her nerveless hand and she sinks heavily to the floor. Bessie
bends over her, and the touch of her smooth hands and the sound of
her sweet voice bring the widow back to life that is now so dark.
But for Bessie's sake she will still be brave, and struggle on alone,
— no, not alone. Bessie is still with her, and their heavenly Father
will lead them through the darkness.
This is only one of the many pictures that are drawn upon
the pages of unwritten historv. Have traitors nothing to answer
for?
soldiers' aid society.
The continued need of money to obtain comforts and necessaries
for the sick and wounded of our army, suggested to the loyal ladies
of the Xorth many and vajious devices for the raising of funds.
Every city, town and village had its fair, festival, picnic, excursion,
concert, which netted more w less for hospital relief. The ladies of
Fulton honored themselves and their county by their noble, gener-
ous work in behalf of the soldiers. Their devotion to the loyal
princijdes of the national Government was undying, and its defend-
ers were objects of their deepest sympathy. During the dark and
trying days of tha Rsbellion they were ever on the alert raising
funds, sending food, clothing, delicacies and medicines to the soldiers
in the hospital and at the front.
In the noble efl'orts the ladies made to palliate the sufferings of
their brothers upon the Southern fields of carnage, they were actu-
ated by love of country, devotions to kindred and sympathy for
those in distress. Though jihysically incapacitated to share with
them the toils and perils of battle, yet before its smoke and the
echoes of its artillery passed away, the offerings of their hands
would relieve their pain, and inspire them with holier ardor for the
cause they were defending. The number of weary sufferers on the
field of battle and in the lonely hospital relieved by their bounty,
none but the Recording Angel can tell.
The ladies of Lewistinvn organized a Soldiers' Aid Society Nov.
28, 1862. Similar societies were organized in many towns of the
county, but we Mill let the following detailed statement of the first
year's labor of the Lewistown society suffice as an illustration of the
labor of all the others : The money contributed was mostly used in
purchasing material for making clothing. Those goods which were
sent to the 17th and 103d Illinois Regiments (the latter wholly
and the former mostly made up of Fulton men), to the Quincy hos-
HISTORY OF PULTON COUNTY. 349
pitals and State Sanitary Coniniissioii for 1862-'63 were as follows:
Cash 1227.26; UU towels ; 94 shirts ; 42 handkerehiefs ; Gl pairs
drawers; 7 coats; 51 pair woolen socks; 3 vests; 1 pair of pants;
6 pair of slip])ers; 37 pillow cases; 15 sheets; 3 quilts; 1 lb.
woolen yarn ; () doz. wash-basins ; 1 bushel turnips; 1 barrel but-
ter; 21 pounds butter; 6 barrels pickles; 1 J barrels dried apples;
2 barrels apple b.utter; 1 J barrels sauerkraut ; 140 dozen cakes; 6
loaf cakes; 66 pies; 52 dozen eggs; 2 chickens; 1 pound tea; 19
packages dried fruit ; 26 cans fruit; needles and thread; reading
matter and other small articles.
soldip:rs in fulton county.
There are many rumors afloat relative to Fulton county's loyalty
during the dark days of the Rebellion, which are very much exag-
gerated, so far as we are abh^ to learn. Among othei- things much
has been said about United States soldiers being sent to the county
while tlie war was in progress. That soldiers were sent into the
county is a fact ; but many have a wrong impression as to the cause
of their being sent here. The semi-official report made by Provost
Marshal Phelps, and published at the time, concerning the reason
why the soldiers were brought to the county and what they did
while here, is perhaps the most authoritative account of the affair
we arc able to obtain. It is substantially correct even in detail, and
we give the entire letter below, that our readers may see the Mar-
shal's statement in full :
" In view of the troubles existing' at this time in the southern portion of Ful-
ton county, and to alhiy any unnecessary apprehension therefrom, and also
for the purpose of correcting evils and misunderstan(lin<rs naturally growing
out of vague rumors and uirfounded reports, many of which are afloat in the
c.onnnunity, in relation to the late military proceedings enacted in south Ful-
ton, I deem it due to the j)ul)lic that a fair and candid statement of the mat-
ter should be made, in order that all may understand the basis upon which
troops were called into the county, their action since their arrival, and when
their mission will have been fulfilled.
"It is a fact well known to the public that there has been for several weeks
past a determine<l armed resistance, accompanied with violent threats, against
the execution of the enrollment law in some of the townships in this county.
The first noticeable demonstration of this spirit, was mamfested in Pleasant
township, and was of so violent a character as to compel Luke Elliott, the
clerk duly appointed by William McComb, the enrolling officer of this county,
to abandon the work. After some delay and much parleying, the enrollment
was completed without further serious opposition, liy another appointee. This
spirit of resistance was caught uj* by the citizens of Isabel township, and cul-
minated in a more formidable and determined resistance than had been exhib-
ited in Pleasant, and finally teiniinated in intimidating one, and taking the
enrolling books of another of the officers, by armed force, and with threats
that no man shobld enroll the townshiji exce])t at the peril of his life.
"In addition to this there was manifested a bitter hostility to the arrest and
return of deserters from the army, so much so that deserters to the number of
15 to 25, encouraged by this spirit, had for some time past been encamped in
the open field, and at other places of rendezvous, with the avowed purpose of
resisting any attempt which might be made by the authorities to arrest them.
Not only this, a large numljer of the citizens of Isabel were in the habit of
drilling and performing other military duty, with no other avowed purpose
350 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
than to be prepared to resist the enrollment. This being the condition of
things, it was manifest to the Provost Marshal that he and his little force were
not able to enforce the law and bring the offenders to justice.
"The Provost Marshal of the district, being informed of the condition of
aflFairs in the county, visited it, and by his direction a small force of cavalrv
( 61 in number ) with one six-pounder was ordered into the county, for the
purpose, and no other, of enforcing the enrollment of Lsabel township and
for the arrest of deserters and other individuals against whom legal process
had been i.ssued. This force arrived and encamped at Duncan's Mills, five
miles south of Lewistown. on the 13th inst. About 12 o'clock that same night,
this force being divided into three squads, of ten men each, leaving the re-
mainder to guard the gun and take charge of prisoners, should any be arrested,
started with their respective officers for three different points in the same
neighborhood, viz.: Charles Brown's, John Lane's and John Graham's. The
fir.st visit made by either of the .squads was at Charles Brown's. The officer,
taking two men with him, went to the house, and after knocking at the door
and making his business known, entered the house and arrested John and
Benjamin F. Brown, who were in bed, no opposition of anj- kind being made.
These two prisoners were put in charge of two soldiers and sent to camp,
while the officer with the remainder of his men joined those who were at John
Lane's. Here eight of the company were detailed to surround the house and
barn of Mr. Lane. The officer then knocked at the door, made his business
known and demanded admittance, which being refused, five minutes were
given in which to comply, at the expiration of which no compliance being
maile, the door was forced in and three .soldiers entered the house. There
were nine men in the house all armed. Two doubie-liarreled shot-guns, one
rifle, three revolvers, one double-barreled pistol, all loaded, and one bowie
knife, were also found in The house. Upon a demand to deliver up their
weapons and surrender, all complied except Aaron Bechelhimer and John
Alexander, including James Lane, who first drew a revolver and afterwards
surrendered. Bechelhimer and Alexander were in a back room, and, as the
soldiers approached. Bechelhimer offering resistance, was caught Vjy a soldier
and thrown out of a window, when he was instantly arrested by another sol-
dier. Alexander, in the meantime, who had been ordered several times to
surrender, attempted to draw a revolver, and was standing with one hand
upon the collar of his coat and the other in the act of drawing his weapon,
when he was shot in the left breast by a soldier, and the revolver taken from
him. Of the number in the house, Piatt and James Lane were arrested, the
latter of whom e caped ; also Aaron Bechelhimer and Marshal Athey, two
deserters, and John Lane, who was afterwards released bv the Provost Mar-
shal.
"The third squad, composed of ten men, had gone to John Graham's on a
like errand (to arrest deserters), and also to arrest Graham, against whom
charges had been preferred before the proper triliunal. Here, as at the other
places, the oflicer in command knocked at the door and made known his busi-
ness. Graham replied that no deserters were in the house, and that he was
alone. Search was made at his barn for deserters, but without success.
Demand was again made for entrance in his hou.se and refused, when the door
was forced open. No men were found in the lower story. Edward Trumbull,
who was one of the squad, opened a door leading up a narrow stairway, and
with a candle in his hand attempted to go up stairs, when he was fired upon
by John Graham, the ball inflicting a slight wound in Trumbull's brea.st, and
passing down lodged in his thigli, cau.sing a severe flesh wound. At the same
time a shot was fired from the porch, which barely missed Van Meter. Gra-
ham still refusing to surrender, a guard was placed around his house and a
messenger sent to the Captain of the company, at Duncan's, to bring up the
artillery. At this, and when Graham discovered what he was contending
against I for, as he said, up to this time he supposed it to be Phelps and his
posse), he finally surrendered, and, with Joseph Brown, was taken prisoner.
"These are the facts, as related by the officers of the several squads, upon
which 1 rely with the utmost confidence. The prisoners, nine in number,
were brought by the cavalry to Lewistown, where they remained until the
afternoon train, when seven { two being released by the Marshal ) were sent to
.^-
^.1
Wyi.TH/C^
CANTON.
OF THE
UMVE.blTY OF ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 353
the Provost Marshal of the district, to he hy him delivered over to the United
States District Marshal of this State, to be tried by the civil authorities upon
the ch irges preferred against them.
"From present in licitions it is hoped and believed that the law will he en-
forced, the enrohment made and deserters arrested, without any resistance;
ami when this fact is clearly demonstrated the military force now in the county
will be withdrawn, and not until then.
"I have been thus p irlicul ir in collecting ami detailing the facts connected
with this trans ictiou, which have been g ithered from eye-witnesses, and other
facts, some of which have come nn ler my own oI)servation and that of num-
erous other citiz -us of the county, for the purpos? of guarding the people
ag liust f ds ' reports, an 1 th it tuey m ly uu lerstaud t'le true condition of aff lirs
in Fulton county. Tiie ex -iteuuMit which followed the arrest by the military,
and the ilemonstration of six or seven bun Ired armed citiz 'Us exhibited in
the environs of L-wistown within eight hours thereafter, needs no comment
from me, but of itself is suffijieut apology for an armed force being quartered
in our midst.
WM. PHELPS,
Lewistowx, August 17, 1863. Provost Marshal of Fulton county."
lee's surrender. — Lincoln's assassination.
Our armies bravely contendjd until finally, after four long years
of bloodshed and carnage, the news was flashed over the wires that
Lee had surrendered. This joyful news reached this county Mon-
day, April 10, 18(J5, being within two days of four years from the
time the batteries were opened on Fort Sumter. On receiving the"
news of the fdl of Richmond the people were very jubilant over
the success of the Union forces. They assembled in all parts of
the county and had grand jubilees. The streets of the cities were
brilliantly illuminateil ; bonfires, rockets and music were seen and
heard on every haul; it wis inJjed a season of rejoicing; and well
might it bo, for wh.it had bien endured, what had been sutfered.
Scarcely had the downfall of the Sauthern Confederacy been re-
ceived ere the sad news of the assassination of Abraham Lincoln
was flashed over the wires. On that beautiful April morning, five
days after the announcement of Lee's surrender, the people, joyful
over the near approach of the return of their loved ones from the
South, the sorrowing news of the President's death was announced.
Mr. Lincoln was bound to the people of this county with stronger
cords than simply being a good ruler. He had spent many days^
here, had many warm personal friends, and it was like the loss of a
brother. They felt the loss keenly ; the tolling bells, the sym-
pathetic dirges, interpreted not merely the grief of a people at the
loss of a President, but the sorrow of a community at the death of
brother, a son, one who was closely akin to all. Meetings were
held and appropriate resolutions passed. Dwellings, stores, churches
and public buildings were draped, and the flags which had been sent
up in m:jments of rejoicing were taken down, draped, and sent up
at half-mast.
the close.
The war ended and peace restored, the Union preserved in its in-
tegrity, the sons of Fulton who had volunteered their lives in de-
22
354
HISTORY OF PULTON COUNTY.
fense of their Government, and who were spared to see the army of
the Union victorious, returned to their homes to receive grand
ovations and tributes of honor from friends and neighbors who had
eagerly and zealously followed them wherever the fortunes of war
called. Exchanging their soldiers' uniforms for citizens' dress, most
of them fell back to their old vocations, — on the farm, at the forge,
at the bench, in the shop, and at whatever else their hands found to
•do. Brave men are honorable always, and no class of citizens are
entitled to greater respect than the volunteer soldiery of Fulton
county, not alone because they were soldiers, but because in their
associations with their fellow-men their walk is upright, and their
honesty and character without reproach.
Their country first, their glory and their pride.
Land of their hoi)es, bmd where their fathers died ;
When in the right, they'll keep their honor hright;
When in the wrong, they'll die to set it right.
No more fitting tribute to their patriotic valor can be offered the
brave men who went forth in defense of liberty and union, than a
full and complete record, so far as it is possible to make it, embrac-
ing the names, the terms of enlistments, the battles in which they
-were engaged, and all the minutiae of their military lives. It will
be a wreath of glory encircling every brow, a precious memento to
hand down to posterity, and one which each of them earned in de-
fense of their and our common country. There are, no doubt, some
men who, while they lived in Fulton county, enlisted in other
counties and were never credited to this county. While the names
of such properly belong here, and we would gladly give them did
we know them, yet the Adjutant-General's reports, the source of our
information, give their names as belonging to other counties, and
we were unable to learn of this fact in every case.
FULTON COUNTY VOLUNTEERS.
ABBREVIATIONS.
abs Absent.
art Artillery.
col Colonel.
capt Captain.
corpl Corporal.
com Commissioned.
cav Cavalry.
capd Captured.
dis Disability.
d Discharged.
e Enlisted.
hos Hospital.
inf Infantrj-.
kid Killed.
lieut Lieutenant.
m. o Mustered Out.
pris Prisoner.
pro Promoted.
regt Regiment.
res Resigned.
sergt Sergeant.
tr Transferred.
V Veteran.
wnd Wounded.
8th INFANTRY.
Bradshaw, John W.
May -1,'G6.
e. Co. C. Mar. 21, '65. m. o.
COMPANY E.
Captain.
Samuel Caldwell, e. July 25, '61, m. o. May 4, '(16.
Privates.
Caldwell, Wm. L., e. July 25,'61. Died Feb. 17,
'04.
Cooper, C. S., e. Julv 2iS,'61. Trans, to artillerv.
Downing, H. H., e. Julv 28'61, d. Mar. 31, '62."
Farewell, Milo, e. July 2S,'61, d. Mar. 28,'64.
Jamison, S. H., e. July 2S,'61.
Keefer, John M., e. Julv 2cS,'61.
Norcott, F. A., e. July28,'61, d. July 2S,'64.
Nutt, Samuel, e. Julv 28,'61.
Pettit, C. E., e. Julv28,'61, d. Mar. 31, '62.
Rockhold, B. F., e. July 28,'61, d. Julv 28,'64.
Stockdale, S. A., e. July 28, '61.
Thornton, T. W., e. July 28,'61, d. Jan. 21, '62.
Thompson, J., e. July 25,'61, m. o. July 30,'64.
Wallace, J. B., e. July 28, '61, kid. at Shiloh,
April 6,'C2.
Cole, Henry, e. Nov. I,'(i4, m. o. Oct. 31, '65.
Ellis, John, e. Oct, 3,'64, Co. H, 12th regt., m. o.
July 10, '65.
Gonder, F., e. Oct. 4,'64, Co. H, 12th regt. ; m. o.
Julv 10, '65.
Cramp, F. H,, e. May 24,'61, Co. F, 14th regt. ;
died May 2, '62.
Retter, Chas., e. Feb. 23, '65, Co. C. 14th regt.
Hughes, J. W., e. Mar. 31, '64.
16tli INFANTRY.
Mackey, P. F., e. in Co. A, May 24, '01, v.
Magee, Jas., e. in Co. A, Mav 24,'61, died June
10, '62.
COMPANY G.
Anderson, W. B., e. May 24,'61, pris. war, m. o.
Juno 3, '65.
Hunter, W. A., e. May 24,'61, v., m.o. July 8,'65,
as corpl.
Husted, M. A., e. May 24, '01, d. May 14, '62.
Matthews, E.D., e.May 24,'61,v., m.o. July 8,'65.
Newell, Thos.,e. May 24, '61, v., m.o. July 8,'65.
Westlake, J., e. Mav 24,'61, v., m. o. July 8,'65,
Westlake, M. M., e. May 24,'61, v., m. o. July 8,
'65.
Perkins, M., e. May 24,'01, in Co. K,, d. Oct.
Ul.'Ol.
Saxbury, B. F., e. Jan. 5, '62, in Co. K. v., m. o.
July S,'65.
17th INFANTRY.
The 17th Reg. 111. Inf. Vols, was mustered
into the United States service at Peoria, 111., on
the 24th day of May, 1861. Left for Alton, 111.,
late in July, proceeded to St. Charles, thence to
Warrenton, Mo., where it remained about two
weeks. The regiment left Warrenton for St.
Louis and embarked on transports for Bird's
Point, Mo. ; thence to Sulphur Springs Land-
ing; debarking, went to Pilot Knob, Mo., in
pursuit of Gen. Jeff. Thompson, and joined
Prentice's command at Jackson, Mo., thence
to Kentucky and aided in the construction of
Fort Holt. Was then ordered to Cape Girar-
deau and was again sent in pursuit of Jeff.
Thompson; participated in the engagement
near Greenfield ; returned to Cape Girardeau
and performed provost duty until Feb., 1862.
Was then ordered to Fort Henry; participated
356
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
in that engagement and Fort Donulson, losing
several men killed, wounded, and taken pris-
oners. Soon after, went to Pitt.sburg Landing
and was assigned to the army of West Tennes-
see; engaged in the battle of the Gth and 7th
of April, sufTering great loss in killed and
wounded; was in the advance to Corinth;
after Uie evacuation of Corinth, marched to
Jackson, Tenn.; remained until July, when
it was ordered to Bolivar, where it remained
until November, 1862, participating during
the time in the expedition to luka to reinforce
General Rosecrans, where it was engaged
in the battle of the Hatchie ; marched to La-
grange, Tenn.. the middle of November, re-
porting to Gen. John A. Logan, and was
assigned to duty as provost guard. Early in
December marched to Holly Springs, via Abbe-
ville and Oxford. At the battle of Holly Springs
was assigned to Gen. McPhersoft's command,
then proceeded to Moscow, Collier\ille and
Memphis, and was assigned to duty at the navy
yard, remaining until June 16, then embarking
for Vicksburg. re-embarking for Lake Provi-
dence, La., where it remained until the invest-
ment of Vicksburg began. Went to Millikin's
Bend, May 1, commenced the march across the
Delta to Pekin's Landing, advanced with Mc-
pherson's command to the final investment of
Vicksburg. Alter the surrenler of that city,
remained there, making frequent incursions
into the enemy's country until May, 1S64, the
erm of service expiring on the '24th of May of
that year.
The regiment was ordered to Springfield, 111.,
to be mustered out, when those who had not
re-enlisted as veterans received their final dis-
charge. A sufficient number not having en-
listed to entitle them to retain their regimental
organization, were consolidated with the 8th
III. Inf., and were finally mustered out with
that regiment in the spring of 1866.
Colonel.
Leonard F. Ross, e. May 3,'61, pro. Brig. Gen,,
April 25, '62.
Surgeons.
L. D. Kellogg, e. April 1,'Cl, res. June U.'6:i.
Chas. B. Tompkins, e.May20,'61, term expired
June, '64.
COIPANY C.
Captains.
Allen D. Rose, c. Mav 13,'61. res. Dec. 24,'61.
Geo. W. Wright, c. M'ay 23,'61, res. April 18,'62.
Milton S. Kimball, e. May 20,61, pro. A.A.G.
Dec. 2:5,'62.
Chauncey Black, e. May 26,'61, tenn expired
June, '64.
First Lieutenants.
\\m. Walsh, e. Mav 13,'61. res. Dec .31, '61.
Wm. T. Dodds. e. Mav i>,'61, res. April 18,'62.
Jas. B. Rowley, e. May 'io.'Gl, term expired
June, '64.
Seond Lieutenant.
Das-id A. Parks, e. May 13,'61, res. Dec. 27,"61.
Sergeant.
<;. A. Schaper.e. May 2>,'61.
J. V. D. Da\ls, e. May 2 >,'61, d. Oct. 20, '62.
Corporals.
L. B. Martin, e. Mav iJ.'Ol.
D. M. B(jyuton, e. May 2j,'61, d. Sept. 7,'61, dis.
James M." Moor, e. May 25, '61.
Privates.
Allen, Siras, e. May 2.5,'61.
Blont. Allen, Jr.. e. May io.'ei.
Bower, Wm., e. May 2.j,'61.
Bovnton, Jonah, e. Mav 2-3''61.
Barker, Cha.s.. e. May 2.5.'61,d. Aug. 18.'62.
Bumnaugh, C. W., e. May 2-5, '61.
Blackall, Thos., e. May 2.5,'61, d. April 3,'62.
Babbett, Joel, e. Mav 25,'61.
Colville, Wm., e. May 25,'61, kid. at Shiloh,
April 6.'62.
Driggs. Wm. H. e. Mav 2;j.'61.
Edmonson, W. II. 1. e. May •2.5,'61. d. May 11, '62.
Edmonson, Wm. H.. 2, e. Mav 25, '16.
Ellis, Wm., e. Mav 25,'61, died Oct. 31,'61.
Giles, D. E., e. May 25.'61.
Hunts, Geo. W., e. May 2.J,61, d. Aug. 9,'62,wnd.
Head, Wm. E., e. May 2.j,'61, d. Nov. lu,'62.
Haggard. Joseph, c.M"ay 2o,'61, died July 11, '62.
Hurlbut, I). A., e. Mav 25,"61, d. Feb. 6,'62.
Hall. C, e. May2.i,'6], v.
Johnson. H. D., e. Mav 25,'61, d. Feb. 7,'62.
Lake, Wm. D.. e. May 2.5,'61, died Oct. 7,'62.
Lambert, C. C, e. May 25,'61, v.
Leevv, J. T., e. Mav 2.3,'61.
Lamb, W. H., e. May 25,'61.
Mann, Isaac, e. May 25, '61.
McConnell, W. J., e. May 2o,'61.
Mutt. John M., e. Mav25,'62.
Murrev, Wm., e. May 25,'61, died Oct. 31, '6L
Morris", Edward, e. May 2.5,'61, d. May 3,'62.
Norris, M. D., e. May ij,'61.
Parks, C. E., e. May 2.5,'61, d. Oct. 20,'62.
Penny, W., e. May 25,'61, d. May 5,'62.
Pardiin, J. J., e. May 2.5,'61, d. June 13,'62.
Russell, John, e. May 2.5,'61. d. April 2y,'62.
Rodenbaugh, J. H., e. May 25,'61, d. May 13,'63.
Shaw. Amos, e. May 25, '61.
Steel. Geo. W., e. May 25,'61, d. April 27,'63.
Small, L. H., e. May 25,'61.
Saunders, Genend L., e. May 25,'61, d. May
16, '62.
Smith, F. M., e. 25,'61, v., m. o. May4,'66.
Smith, J. C, e. May 25,'61.
Schank, Jacob, e. May 25,'61, d. April 29,'62.
Singleton. A. A., e. May 25,'61, d. April 2<),'6"2.
Taylor, H. N., e. May 2.3,'61, d. Aug. 7,'62.
Venable, C, e. May 25,'61, d. Sept. 20,'61, dis.
Weaver, Eldridge, e. May 25,'61.
Weaver. Jonathan, e. May 25, '61.
Welsh, Barclav, e. Mav 25,'61.
Wilmarth, C. S., e. May 25,'61, died May 6,'62.
Wagner, A. H., e. May 25,'61, d. July 10,'61, dis.
Wesifall. A. P., e. May •25,'6L
Wilkins, Philander, e. May 25,'61.
Culver. D. S., e. June 1, '61.
Corzette, Peter, e. June l.'Gl, died May 6,'62.
Davis, Joseph, e. June 1,'61, d. April ;^,'62.
Henderson, Wm. C, e. Dec. 1S,"63, m. o. May
4, '66.
Jacobs, H. F., c. Junel,'61, d. May 11, '62.
Neaglev Martin, e. Sept. 11, '61, kid. at Shiloh.
Prinze," Christ., e. June 1,61, kid. at Shiloh.
Powell, Al., e. June 24,6], v., m. o. May 4,'66.
Post, Harrison, e. July 26.'61.
Perinc. J. L.. c. Aug. 6.'62, d. April 27.'63.
Palmer. H. C, e. Dec. 31, '63. m. o. May 4,'66.
Rust, John, e. May 2o,'61.
Shepherd. Wm., e. June 1,'61, died May 31,'62.
i While, Milton, e. June 1,'61.
White, F. M..e. June 1, '61.
Walling. J. M., e. Dec. 28.'63, m. o. May 4,'66.
Fogg, David W., e. May 25, '61, in Co. E.
Newton, Walter, e. Ma"y 25,'61, in Co. E.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY,
357
COlVtPAKY H.
Captains.
Leonard F. Ross, e. May 13, '61, promoted col.
Thomas A. Boyd, e. M ly 13, '61, res. April 24, '62.
\Villiam W. Hull, e. May 25, '61, m. o. June'64.
First Lieutenants.
AsiasWillison, c. M.iv 1:>,'61, res. April 18, '62.
M S. Kimhall. e. May 20,'61, pro. eapt. Co. C.
Wm. C. Stockdale, e. May 2.5, '61, m. o. June, '64.
Second Lieutenant.
Wm. E. Yarnell, e. May25,'61, pro. 1st. lieut.
Co. E.,8th regt.
Sergeants.
.Tames J. Hall, e. May25.'61, d. May 13,, '62.
Chauncey Blaek, e. May 25,'61, pro. 1st. lieut.
Corporals.
Christian D. Bliss, e. May 25, '61.
C. B. Tt>mpkiiis, e. Mav25,'61.
L. W. Potts, e. May 25,'61, v.
D. G. Campbell, e. May 25,'61, died Sept. 12,
'62.
Privates.
Bakeu, Greenbury, e. May 25,'51, d. April 20'62,
wnds.
Birger, .1. S., e. May 25, '61, promoted.
Ba.sor, John, e. May 25, '61. died Mar. 8, '62,
wnds.
Beeson, J. A., e. May 25,'61, d. Oct. 26,'62.
Bennett, John, e. May 25, '61.
Bjrrys, J. B., e. May 25,'61, d. July 22,'6'2.
Bovven, Evan, e. Mav 25, '61.
Brooks, N. C, e. May 25, '61. d. Dec. '20, '62.
Buck, J. H., 0. Miy 25,'61, d. July 22,'62.
Birch, A. W., e. May 25,'61, v.. pro. 1st Lieut.
Boadownie, S. M., e. May 25,'61, d. May 13,'62.
Cappee. Toliias, e. May 25,'61.
Carey, Patrick, e. Mav25,'61, v.,m.o. Mav 4, '66.
Chillis, J. K., e. May 25, '61, died May ]5,'62.
Cunningham, T H., e. May 25, '61, trans, to sun-
boat service.
Donnellv, John, e. May 25, '61.
Day, C. M.. e. May 2.5, '61.
Dickenson, E. J., e. ]May25,'6l.
Glacken, E. F., e. May 25, '61, v., m.o. May 4, '66.
Goodman, Thos., e. May 2.5,'61. v,
Gray, J. A., e. Mav 25. '61.
Hnffuer, Wm. J., e. Mav 22.'61.
Ham, R.W., e. May 25,'61, d. June 29,'62, wnds.
Harris, James, c. M ly 2i),'61, trans, to gun-boat.
Hassoii, H. C., e. MaV 25, '61.
Jones, S. M., e. May 25,'61.
Kent, J. F., e. .May 25.'61.
Kent, Divid, e. M.iy 22,'61, died April 14,'62,
wnds.
Kent, E. Y., e. Mav25,'6L
Kindall, J. K., e. May 25.'61, d. May 2.'62.
Layton, Thomas, e. May 25,'6I, kid at Fred-
"erickston. Mo., Oct. 21, '61.
Lewis, A. H., e. May 25, '61.
Love, Archil.iald, e. Mav25,'62.
Ma.xwell, J. T., e. May 25.'61.
Mixwell, J. L., e. May 25, '61.
McClay, Samuel, e. Mav 25. '61.
McDowell, J. R., e. Mav25,'61.
Messplay, G. 8., e. May 25,'61. d. Aug. 6,'62.
Millis,)n, John, e. May 25, '61.
Moranville, Eli, e. May 25, '61.
S'elson, Thomas, e. Mav 25, '61, trans, to gun-
boat.
Pixley, Thiddeus, e. May 25,'61, d. June 20,'61.
Pricket, Nicholas, e. May 25, '61, died March
28,'02.
Roatson, J. V., e. May 25, '61, v.
Sevier, Noah, e. Mav 25.'61, v.
Shiner, G. W., c. May 2.5,'61, died April 4,'62,
wnds.
Slack, J. T. Jr., e. May 25.'61, v., d. Dec. 19,'65.
Snell, Samuel, e. May 25,'61.
Steuson, Alfred, e, May 25,'61, d. July 26,'62.
Smith, James T., e. Mav 25,'61, d. June 20/62.
Trite, W. H., e Mav 25,'61, d. May 5, '62.
Waddell. O. B., e. Mav 25, '61.
Walling, Eli, e. May 25,'61, d. May 13,'62.
Weaver, T.M., e. May 25, '61. v., m.o. May 4, '66.
Wheeler, Samuel, e. May 25, '61.
Walker, F. M., e. Mav 25,'61, d. Mar. S,'62.
White, C. W., e. Mav25,'61.
Wilson, J. W., e. May 25,'62.
Westfall, O. C, e. May 25,'61, d. Nov. 4,'61.
Woolfolk, A. C, e. Mav 25,'6].
Wilson, J. N., e. May 2.5,'61, d. Aug. 14,'62.
Zepjierer, W. H., e. May 25, '61.
Barney, H. C., e. May 26,'61, m. o. May 4,'66.
Black, J. n., e. May 28,'61, d. Mar. 10,'63.
Brick. J. E., e. June 26, '61.
Barber, Geo., e. Dec. 17,'63, m. o. May4,'66.
Bush, Sampson, e. Dec. 12, '63, m. o. May 4, '66.
Cline, H. L. D., e. June 1, '61, d. May 2,'62.
Edwards, J. W.
Edwards, W. O., e. Nov. 28, '63, m. o. June
13, '65.
Foote, G. M.. e. Oct. 15,'61, died Mar. 28,'62.
Griffith, Edward, e. Feb. 25, '64, m.o. June 5, '6.5.
Hill, J. B.,e. Aug. r2,'61.
Hill, Henry B., e. Sept. 25, '61.
Humphrey, W. H., e. June 1,'61.
Herrill, D. H., e. Dec. 7,'63.
Krider, John, e. Feb. 15,'64. m. o. Mav 4, '66.
Locke, W. E., e. May 26,'61, died Nov. 18,'61,
wnds.
McCammy, D. W.,e. May 28,'61. v., m. o. Mav
4, '66.
McConnell, J. L., e. May28.'61.
Morgan, R. A., e. Dec. 7. '63.
McCrasky, Sabron, e. Dec. 3, '63, m. o. April
19, '66.
Norman, S. H., e. June 1,'61, d. Nov. 10, '62.
wnds.
Rcsor, J. W., e. June 1,'61.
Siever, Levi. e. Jtme 1,'61, v. m. o. May 4, '66.
Smith, J. W., e. Oct. 21, '61, v. m. o. ^iay 4,'66.
Shaw, S.
Slack, W. H., e. Dec. 19,'63.
Smith, A., e. Feb. 2.'64, m. o. May 24,'65.
Seiver, Jacob, e. Feb. 1,'64, m. o. May 4, '66.
Weaver, R. G., e. Feb. 1.'61, died Dec. 4.'64.
Willis, B. F., e. Feb. 1, '64.
Yarnell, J. H., e. June 1,'61.
18th INFANTRY.
COMPANY I.
Thomas, Wm., e. Mar. 10, '65.
Belloss, Amos, e. Mar. 7, '65, m. o. Dec. 16,'65.
Thomas, Robert, e. Mar. 10, '65, m. o. Dec.
16, '65.
Wilcox, Geo., e Mar. 7, '65.
Bellass, Peter, e. Mar. 7, '65, died April 4, '65.
Mahoney, John, e. Oct. 3, '64.
21st INFANTRY.
COMPANY F.
Gilson, Charles B., e. Mar. 8,'64, m. o. Dec.
16, '65.
Greer, D. B., e. Feb. 10,'65, m. o. Dec. 16,'65.
Knock, Samuel, e. Dec. 16, '63.
COMPANY G.
Brvant, M. A., e. Oct. 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 10,'6.5.
Dadv, Owen, e. Oct. 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Dongla.s, C. W., e. Oct. 10,'64, m.o. Oct. 10,'6.5.
Gove, Joel, e. Oct. 10,'(54, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Lindslev, W. J., e. Oct. 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 10.'65.
Lovejov, Ami, e. Oct. 10,'64, m, o. Oct. 10,'6.5.
Mitchell, J. F., e. Oct. 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Stime, W. E., e. Oct. 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Whitney. A. B., e. Oct. 10,'64.
Washburn, Volnev, e. Oct. 10,'64, m. o. Oct.
10, '6.5.
Hall, H, W., e. Oct. 10, '64, m. o. Oct. 10, '65.
358
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY,
26tli IXFANTRY.
Oregon-. B. F., e. Aug. 23/61. v.. m. o. July
20, '"65.
Bates, G. D., e. Jan. •25,'64, in Co. C, m. o. July
20, '66.
COIPANY K.
Captain.
John B. Bruner, e. Jan. 28,"62, pro. Major.
Privates.
Beers, W. R.. e. Dee. 16.'61. died Aug. 11,"63.
Onion. M. P.. e. Dec. 18.'61, died Aug. 20.'63.
Roekhold, L. C, e. Dec. 30,'Cl.
Robiii.«on, W. G.. e. Dec. 18,'61.
Shook, J. M.. e. Aug. 12,'61, Co. E, 27th Regt.
Cox, John, e. Aug. 12, '61, Co. E, 27th Regt.
Musselman, G., e. Aug. 12.'61, Co. E. 27th Regt.
Perkins, R. J., e. Mar. 21. '64.
28th INFANTRY
was organized at Camp Butler, August, '61.
It proceeded, Aug. 28. to Thebes: Sept. 9, to
Bird's Point. Mo. ; Oct. 2. to Fort Holt, Ky. :
Jan. 31, "62, moved to Paducah, Ky. ; Feb. .5,
moved up Tennessee river; Feb. 6, took part
in the capture of Forts Henry and Heiman ;
Feb. 13, a detachment of 48 men and 12 officers
met the enemy (.500 strong) at Little Bethel
Church, and immediately attacked and routed
them. Arrived at Pittsburg Landing Mar. 17.
It wa.s assigned to a position in the Peach
Orchard. April 6, they repulsed the attacks of
the enemy, holding its position from 8 A. M.
to 3 P. M. On the mortiing of the 7th. it held
a position on the right of the line, and was
hotly engaged until the battle closed and the
rictory was won. During these two, long,
trying, bloody days, this regiment behaved
nobly, and its lines were never broken nor was
it driven back by the enemy, though often
most hea-vily pressed. The regiment sustain
ed the fearful lo.ss of 2.39 men killed and wound,
ed: was engaged in the siege of Corinth dur-
ing the mouth of May, '62 ; marched to Mem-
phis, arriving July 21, '62; marched Sept. 6,
reaching Boli%'ar, 14th; Oct. 5, engaged in bat-
tle of Matamora, losing 97 men, killed, wound-
ed and missing: returned to Bolivar Oct. 7;
Dec. .30, were assigned to duty of guarding rail-
road from HoUy Springs to Waterford, Miss. :
was engaged in the siege of Vicksburg from
June 11 to July 4, '63. On the 12th of July,
"63. near Jackson. Miss., the 28th, 41st and -5:^
niinois and 3rd Iowa lufantrj-, not exceeding
800 men, were ordered to charge across a level
open cornfield, some six hundred yards, and
carry a strong line of the enemy's work;-,
mounting 12 guns and manned by at least
2,000 men. The brigade swept gallantly for-
ward, under a destructive fire of grape, can-
ister and minie l^ullets. The enemy ap-
I)earing upon both flanks as it reached the
ditch, it was compelled to fall back, with a loss
of more than haif of the rank and file killed and
wounded; out of the 128 men of this regimen
engaged, 73 were killed and wounded and 16
taken prisoners. The regiment remained at
Natchez during the latter part of '63. doing pro-
vost guard duty. The regiment re-enlisted
Jan. 4, "64. May 18, proceeded to Illinois for
veteran furlough; rettiming, arrived at
Natchez July 8: were engaged in several ex-
peditions; Oct. 10, was consolidated into four
companies; was engaged in the siege of Span-
i.<h Fort, losing 14, killed and woundpd, in-
cluding two captains; was re\iewed by Chief
Justice Chase June 3, '6-5.
Number ofmen at organization 761
Recruits •. 959
1,720
Commissioned oflScers killed 9
" wounded 19
" " discharged 49
" . " dismissed 4
" '• died of disease 2
" " transferred 3
Enlisted men killed .52
" died of wounds 34
'• ■' wounded 265
'■ " missing in action 17
'• " killed accidentally 5
" died of disea.se 139
'• discharged 445
transferred 18
975
Colonel.
Hinman Rhodes, e. Aug. 17, '61, m. o. Mar. 15.
'66.
Lieutenant Colonel.
Edwin P. Durell. e. Aug. 15,'61, m. o. Mar.
15. '66.
Adjutant.
Thomas A. Ralston, e. .\ug. 17,'61, m. o. Oct.
7.'64.
Quartermaster.
James C. Duulap. e. Aug. 15,'61, m. o. Mar.
1.5, '66.
Sergeant Major.
Da%'id Branson.
Wm. D. Cox, e. Jan. 8.'62, v. m. o. Mar. 15.66.
Commissari/ Sergeant.
Robert Blair.
John R. Patrick.
Hospital Steward.
Oliver AVood, e. Sept. 1.'61, v. m. o. >rarch. 15.
'66.
COIP.AJVY A.
Second Lieutenant.
John R. Easley, m. o. Mar. 15,'66.
Sergeants.
3. A. Blair, e. Aug. 1,'61, d. Aug. 26,'64.
J. P. Smith, e. Aug. 1, '61, trans, to U. S. Narv.
J. M. Smith, e. Aug. 1.'61. d. Aug. 26.'64.
Private.^.
Allen, G. W., e. Aug. 1.'61. v. m. o. Mar. 6,'66.
Brewer, J. S., e. Aug. 1,'61, v. m. o. Mar. 1.5,'66.
Crosbv, D. M., e. Aug. 1,'61.
Carv, F. M., e. Aug. 1,'61, d. Mar. 28, '62, dis.
Dutro. J. B.. e. Aug. 1.'61, v.
France, W. L., e. Aug. 1,'61. v. died Feb. 28,'64.
Fisher, John. e. Aug. l."61, d. May 7,'62, dis.
Hanks. J. A., e. Aug. 1,'61, v. pro. 2d Lieut.
Co. E.
Hedge, Richard, e. Aug. 1,'61, died.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
359
Newton, D. W., e. Aug. 1,'61, kid. at Shiloh.
Strokes, Wm., e. Aug. 1,'61, v. m. o. Mar. 1.'),'66.
Smith, W. P., e. Aug. 1,'61.
Wilcox, B. F., e. Aug. 1,'61.
Walling, E. P., e. Aug. ],'61, m. o. Aug. l(;,'t;4.
Williainsun, J. A., e. Aug. 1,'61, v. ni. o. Mar.
7,'6t).
Davis, Lukins, e. Sept. 27, '61, v. m. o. Mar.
15,'t)fi.
Schoolcraft, Benj., e. Aug. 17,'61, died Oct.l,'(i:!.
Davis, J. G., e. Aug. 22, '61, v. in Co. G.
Moore, J. G., e. Aug. 22,'61. in Co. G.
COMPANY H.
First Lieutenant..
Isaiah Denness, e. Aug. 17, '61; term e.K.'W.
Second Lieutenant.
J. B. Carithers, e. Aug. 15,'61, resigned Aug.
8, '63.
Corporals.
J. Q. Ludlum, e. Aug. 15,'61, m. o. Aug. 26,'64.
C. R. Watkins, e. Aug. 15, '61, v.
Wm. H. Barrow, e. Aug. 15, '61, died of wnds.
April 26,'62.
Thomas Barrow, e. Aug. 15, '61, m. o. Aug.
26, '64.
William H. Wier, e. Aug. 15,'64, wnd: d. Dec.
SI, '62.
Privates.
Arnold. J. M.. e. Aug. 15,'61, v.
Aten, Henry, e. Aug. 15, '61. d June 1'.).'62, dis.
Atherton, James, e. Aug. 15,'61, v.
Barrow, Jinken, e. Aug. 15.'61, m. o. Aug.16,'64.
Burton, Lemuel, e. Aug. 15, '61.
Carter, John, e. Aug. 15, '61, v. m. o. Mar.l5,'i)6.
Dollar, Wm., e. Aug. 1.5,'61.
Easley, D. M., e. Aug. 15,'61, v. m. o. Mar.l5,'6(;.
Etnire, Samuel, e. Aug. 15,'61, d. Oct. 2,'62,
wnds.
Farrand, James, e. Aug. 15,'61, v.
Hill, George, e. Aug. 15, '61.
Howard. S. M., e. Aug. 15,'61. v.
House, B. F., e. Aug. 15,'61, v.
Hall, F. A., e. Aug. 15,'61, d. Aug. 16,'62. dis.
Jacob, J. A., e. Aug. 15, '61.
Kelso, John, e. Aug. 15, '61, d. Aug. 16, '62, dis.
Ludlum, Alma, e. Aug. 15"61, m. o. Aug.26,'64.
Mercer, Charles, e. Aug. 15, '61, d. Aug. 2,'62,
dis.
Moore, J. W., e. Aug. 15, '61.
Musgrove, S. R., e. Aug. 15, '61, m. o. Sept.8,'64.
Musgrove, B. F., e. Aug. 16, '61, m. o. Aug.
•26, '64.
Morrison, G. V., e. Aug. 15,'61, v., kid. Sept.
20, '64.
Moses, Samuel, e. Aug. 15,'61. d. Oct. 22,'62,
dis.
Powell, J. C, e. Aug. 15, '61.
Pettinger, William, e. Aug. 15, '61, kid. at
Shiloh.
Stevens, Robert, e. Aug. 15, '61, m. o. Aug.
26,'64.
Sapp, John, e. Aug. 15, '61.
Thompson, John, e. Aug. 15,'61, m. o. Aug.
26,'64.
Thomas, G. W., e. Aug. 15, '61, v., m. o. Mar.
15,'66.
Wilson, Charles, e. Aug. 15, '61, m. o. Aug,
26, '64.
Wilkins, Ralph, e. Aug. 15,'61.
Wood, Kli, e. Aug. 15,'61, kid. at Shiloh.
Bedwell, Bouj., e. Mar. 21, '64, m. o. Mar. 15, '66.
Brfiwn, Peter, e. Jan. 18, '62, m. o. June 19, '65.
Brick, G. W., e. Mar. 24, '64, m. o. Mar. 15, '66.
Cooper, M. T., e. Mar. 24, '64, m. o. Mar. 15, '66.
Coonev, Geo., e., Sep. 6, 61, m. o. Sept. 4, '64.
Cameron, J. H., e. Jan. 14, '64, d. May 12,'65,
dis.
Denness, Charles, e. Oct. 11, '61.
Dickinson, Geo., e. Nov. 14, '61.
Dobbins, Franklin, e. Jan. 8,'62, died of wnds
Oct. 14, '62.
Galbreath, William, e. Aug. 8, '61, d. Jan. 28,
'63, dis.
Hallidav, J. C, e. Mar. '21, '64, m. o. Mar.15,'66.
Hermoii, Calvin, e. Aug. H,'61, kid at Shiloh.
Hermon, J. P., e. Sept. L'til.
Ingram, Simp.son, e. Sept. 1,'61.
Knowles, Noah. e. Mar. •29,'64. m. o. Mar.l5.'66.
Moore, Wra., e. Mar. 14, '64, m. o. Mar. 15,'6«5.
Miller, Michael, e. Mar. 26,'64, m. o. Mar.15,'66.
Morrison, C. B., e. Mar. 21, '64, m. o. Mar.15,'66.
Mc.Mullen, Horace, e. Sep. 1,'61, m.o. Sep.4,'64.
Price. W. M., e. Sept. 27,'61, died Sept. 2,'63.
Reese, G. W., e. Sept. 1,'61. m. o. Sept. 4,'64.
Sturgeon, Simpson, e. July 22, '61.
Thompson, Charles, e. Feb. 30,'64, d. Jan. 18,
'65, dis.
Thompson, J. M., e. Mar. 21, '64, m. o. Mar.
15,'66.
Thomas, Samuel, e. Sept. 1,'61, m. o. Sept. 4, '64.
Thomas, Erastus, e. Sept. 1,'61, m. o. Sept.4,'64.
Thomas, R. T., e. Sept. 1,'61. v.,m. o. Mar.16,'66.
Wood, Aaron, e. Mar. 14, '64, m. o. Mar. 6, '66.
Warner, Alfred, e. Sept. 1,61, m. o. Sept. 4, '64.
Watt, Henrv, e. Oct. 28,'61, v., m. o. Mar.15,'66.
Wilev, J. W., e. Sept. 1,'61, d. July 24,'62,wnds.
Youst. Elijah, e. Sept. 1,'61, d. Oct. 22,'62, dis.
Bateson, Geo., e. Mar. 10, '65, m. o. Mar. 10,'66.
Hays, James, e. Mar. 10,'65, ra. o. Mar. 10, '66.
Nelson, Edward, e. Mar. 10,'65. m. o. Mar.10,'66.
Rutledge, Simon, e. Mar. 10, '65, m. o. Aug.
11, '65.
Wiley, J., e. Mar. 10, '65, m. o. Mar. 1C,'66.
COMPANY I.
Sergeant.
Xndn-w J. Pett>-, e. Aug. 27,'61, died Mar. 6'62.
Corporals.
,fohn Smith, e. Aug, 27, '61, wnd. v.
James H. Rogers, e.Aug. 27, '61, died April U.
'62, wnds.
Private.^.
('lift, E. M.-, e. Aug. 27,'61, v. m. o. Mar. 15,'66.
Murphv, W. H. e. Aug. 27, '61.
Mussie,"M. W., e. Aug. 27,'61, d. Oct. 20,'62, dis.
Phrimraer, S., e. Aug. 27, '61, m. o. Aug. 26,'64.
Rogers, Jackson, e. Aug. 27, '61. m. o. Aug.
26.'64.
Rogers, J. L., e. Aug. 27, '61, m. o. Aug. 26,'64.
Stevens, Joseph, e. Aug. 27, '61.
Stambaugh, J., e. Aug. 27, '61, m.o. Aug. 26,'64.
Voorkes, T. J., e. Aug. 27, '61.
Voorkes, J. M., e. Aug. 27, '61, right arm shot
off at Metamora.
Craig, Wm., e. Jan. 5, '64.
Hubbard, W. H., e. Mar. 1,'62, v.
Turpin, Martin, e. Jan. 18,'64, died Feb. 12,'64.
Miller, W. F., e. Feb. 1.5, '64.
Eickelberger, J., e. Mar. 4, '65, m. o. Mar. 4, '66.
Allen. Geo., e. Aug. 4,'62, in Co. F. 29th regt.
Courtnev, R., e. Oct. 4,'r)4, in Co. A, 31st regt.
Soaper, S.. e. Oct. 4,'64, in Co. A, 31st regt.
Williams, J. J., e. Oct. 4, '64, in Co. A, 31st regt.
Wages, Isaac, e. Oct. 4,'64, in Co. A, 31st regt.
Murphy, J. E., e. Aug. 15, '61, in Co. I, 31st regt.
Anderson, Henrv, e. Oct. 3, '64.
Maloon. Wm., e. Oct. 4,'64, in Co. I, 32d regt.
Wilcoxen, D., e. Jan. 8,'62, in Co. I, 32d regt.
died Mav 1,'62.
Mann, J., e. Oct. 5,'64, in Co. I, .3'2d regt.
Mallon, Wm., e. Oct. 4, '64, in Co. I, 32d regt.
Moore, David, e. Aug. 23,'61, in Co. E, 3.3d regt.
Lines, W. H., e. Mar. 20,'65, in Co. C, 34th regt.
DaCogan, E., e. Mar. 20,'65, in Co. G, 34th regt.
Forrest, Daniel, e. July 3,'61, in Co. F, 35th
regt.
36th INFANTRY.
Ammerman, A. A., e. Oct. 3, '64, in Co. E, pris.
war.
360
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
Bier. S. B., e. Oct. 4,'64, in Co. E.
Chamberlain, Wm., e. Oct. 3, '64, in Co. E.
Fig ltd, I)d\-id, e. Oct. 3,'64, in Co" E.
Leigh, I., e. Oct. 3,'6t, in Co. E, died of wnds.
Dec 7 '64.
Shrevesi L., e. Oct. 4,'64, died Jan. 13,'65.
Diinblrtzer. H., e. Oct. 14,'(>4, in Co. H.
Fisher, I. B., e. Oct. 18,'64, in Co. H.
Rav, Wni. W., e. Oct. 1.5,'64, in Co. H.
Buckner, \V. E., e. Oct. 19.'f>4, died Jan. 15,'6.5.
McBride, W. P., e. Oct. 14,'64, supposed to have
died.
Sayers, F. M., e. Oct. 14,'64, in Co. K.
37th INFANTRY.
COMPANY C.
Brigg, Henn-, e. Aug. 1,'61. v. in. o. May 1.5,
'66.
Cleaveland, Chas., e. Aug. 1,'61. v. m. o. May
]5,'66.
Cleaveland, James, e. Aug. 1,'61. v. m.o. Oct.
4,'64.
Chadwick, W., e. Aug. 1,'61. kid, Oct. 4,'63.
Carman, T. H., e. Aug. 1,'61.
Hender, Vernon, e. Aug. 1,'61. m. o. Oct. 4,'64.
Hawkin.'s, J. S., e. Aug. 1,'61.
Jacobs, F. J., e. Aug. 1.'61. v.
Morrell, W. C, e. Aug. 1,'61. v. pro. Q. M. ser-
geant.
McCormifk, J., e. Aug. 1.'61. d. Nov. 16,'62. dis.
Manner, G. B., e. Aug. 1,'61. kid. Mar. ",'62.
Potter, A. J., e. Sept. 1,'61.
Rowling, C. J., e. Aug. 1.'61. m. o. Oct. 4.'f4.
Rich, Peter, e. Sept. i,'61. v, m. o. May l.'i.'fifi.
Snuire.s, C. S., e. Aug. 1,'61. m. o. Sept. 20,'W.
Ward, J. S., e. Aug. 1,'61. di^d Nov. 18,'61.
COMPANY F.
G-illigor, W. H., e. .\ug. 19,'61. m. o Oct. 4, '64.
Hill, C. F., e. Aug. l',t,'61. m. o. Sept. 10,'64,
Maltby. C. c. Aug. l'.i,'61. m. o. Sept. l'.t,'64.
:59th REGIMENT.
COMPANY F.
Drake, J. C, e. Feb. 23,'64. m. o. Dec. 6,'6.').
Hiirvev. Henrv, e. Feb. i!l>,'64. m. o. Julv 17,'6.5.
Letwiler, C, e. Feb. ■J9,'64. m. o. Dec. 6,'6.').
Lusk, P., e. Feb. 'i.'Ol. died at Andcrsonville.
Mittimore, A., e. Feb. 29,'64 died Mar. 23,'64.
Smith, A., e. Feb. 2,'64. d. Mav 6,'6.5. dis.
Buttertield, F. L., e. Feb. 4,'64. ra. o. Mav 30,
'6.1.
Gillmore, Wm., e. Aug. 7, '61, in Co. F. 41st
regt.
42d INFANTRY.
Day, Geo., e. Aug. 20,'61.
Biruett, James, e. .\ug. 3,'61. m. o. Feb. S,'6.">.
(^hamberlain, Wm., e. Sept. 1.5,'61. leg ampu-
tated.
Courtnev, H. H., e. Aug. 3, '61. v. m. o. Dec. 16,
'65.
Corbin, Wm., e. Aug. 3,'61. d. Aug. 31, '62.
Diiryea, J. W., e. Aug. 10, '61. v.
Gibson, J. .\., e. Aug. 3, '61. wounded.
Green, W. R., e. Aug. 10, '61. v. m. o. Aug. 3,
'6.->.
Hoag, J., e. Aug. 29,'61. v. m. o. Dec. 16,'6.5.
Johnson, W. H., e. Aug. 13, '61.
Morse, W. C, e. Aug. 10,'61. m. o. June 3, '6.').
Oldham, J., e. July 13,'01. v. ra. o. Dec. 16,'6.j.
Roberts. J. J., e Aug. 10,'61. d. for dis.
Thompson, John, e. July 30,'61. v. m. o. Dec.
16,'6.i.
Vogland, F. E, D., e. Aug, 27,'61. m. o. Sept.
16,'64, ■ '
47th INFANTRY
Was organized at Peoria, Aug. 16,'61. It pro-
ceeded to Benton Barracks, Sept. 23; May 9,
'62, was engaged at Farmington, Miss.; was
engaged May 2<S, near Corinth, and at that city
Oct. 3d and 4th, where they lost their brave
Col. W. \. Thrush, while leading a charge.
The regiment lo.st in this engagement 30 killed
and over 100 wounded. May 14, '63, was en-
gaged at Jackson, Miss. ; took part in the
charge on the enemy's works at Vicksburg
May 22, losing 12 killed and a large number
wounded; wsisatthe battle of Pleasant Hill,
La., April 9,'64. Returned to Yick.sburg May
22. with Ge". Smith's command, after a cam-
paign of nearly three months, in which they
suffered almost unheard-of fatigue and priva-
tions, many men dying from hardships. The
47th met and defeated Gen. Marmaduke near
Lake Chicat, in which they lost 11 killed and
a number wounded. It was mustered out
Jan., '66, at Selma, Ala.
COMPANY A.
First Lieutenant.
John W. Dodds, e. Aug. 25,'61. res. June 17, '62.
Sergeant.
John Watts, e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. Il,'ij4.
CorporaU.
James Parr. e. Aug. 16, '61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Irving C. Fox, e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
J. A. H. Speer, e. Aug. 16, '61. m. o.Oct. 11, '64.
Reuben Edmonson, c. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct.
11, '64.
Private.^.
Baxter. John, e. Aug. 16, '61.
Cunningham, Alex.,e. Aug. 16,'61. d. April 13,
'63. dis.
Comb.s, A. J., e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Cain, John, e. Aug. 16, '61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Cozad, B. F., e. Aug. 16,'61. d. June 19.'62. di.s.
Cook, C. C, e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Dyer, Martin, e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Edmonson, C. B., e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11,
'6-1.
Fredrick, P., e. Aug. 16,'61. v. pro. 1st Lieut.
Gray, D. H., e. Aug. 16, '61. died Nov. 6,'61.
Glberson, D., e. Aug. 16, '61.
Griffith. T., e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Gladman, Amos. e. Aug. 16.'61. v. m. o. Jan.
21, '60.
Hirn, D. A., e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Haptenstall, A. C, e. Aug. 16,'61. v. pro. Cap-
tain.
Hart. James, e. Aug. 16,'61. died Oct. 22,'62.
Harlan. Plato, e. Aug. 16,'6]. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Hail in, N. B., e. Aug. 16,'1>1. m. o. Oct. 11,'64.
Jackson. J. A., e. Aug. 16,"61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Kirkeudall. Wm., e. Aug. 16,'61. v.
Logan, Geo., e. Aug. 16, '61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
McFarland, John, e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11.
'64.
Patton. Wm., e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Dec. ]7,'64.
Romine, S., e Aug. 16, '61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Stewart, S. G., e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '&4.
Toland, G. W., e. Aug. 16,'61. m. q. Oct. 11, '64.
SulHvan, S. D., e. Aug. 16,'61. m. o. Jan. 21, '66.
Sullivan, Elijah, e. Aug. 16, '61. v. m. o. Jan.
21, '66.
Thurman, S. H., e. Aug. 16.'61. d. Dec. 15,'62.
dis.
Warriner, J. C, e. Aug. 16,'16. m. o. Oct. 11, '64.
Wendall, J. R., e. Aug. 16.'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '64
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
361
Hollistor, II. F., e. Av^. 2,'64. m. o. Jan. 21, '00.
Stewart, Win., c .Sept. l,s,'(il. m. o. Aufi. l,s,'04.
MfKonzie, .1. S., e. Aug. 18,'(il. <1. Jan. •J.'O:!.
dis.
Sampson, J. T., e. Aug. 18,'61. d. Dw. 10,'01-.
ai«.
Simp.s.)n, C. J., o. Aug. 18,'0l. died Aug. 18,'63.
Sampson, W. B., e. Aug. 18, '01. m. o. Get. 11,
'04.
Fountain, Svmuel.
Snvder, H. II., e. Aug. 21, '61. in Co. F.
Wilmot, L. I)., e. Aug. 16,'Gl, in Co. G. m. o.
Aug. 11, '04.
coMPA:r Y I.
Chadwick, Geo., e. Sept. 4,'61. m. o. Oct. 11, '04.
D.ivis, J. 11., e. Sept. 4, '01.
D.ift, W. II., e. Sep-. 4,'61,
Galer, R., e. Sept. 4, '01. v. m. i\ Jan. 21, '00.
Leeper, G. T., e. Sept. 4, '01. m. o. Get. 11, '04.
Leeper. W. G., e. Sept. 4,'01. m. o. Get. 11, '01.
Saunders, Henry, e. Sept. 4, '01.
Stoddard, Israel, e. Sept. 4, '01. d. June 24, '02.
dis,
Tullis, Daniel, e. Sept. 4.'01. died of vvds. Get.
4,'02.
COMPANY F.
47th consolidated.
SergeantK.
John J. Bell, e. Fel). 24, '05. m. o. Jan. 21, '00.
J. G. Thorn, e. Jlar. l,'0.i. m. o. Jan. 21, '00.
Wm. Maxwell, e. !\Iar. 1,'0«. m. o. Jan. 21, '06.
Privates.
CuUey, John, e. Feb, 23, '65. d. Nov. 18, '05. dis.
Dvwson, Rol)t., e. Feb. 21!, '()5. m. o. Jan. 21, '00.
Davis, Joseph, e. Feb. 2:!, '65. m. o. May 23. '05.
Fahee, Wni., e. Feb. 21, '65. m. o. Jan. 21, '66.
G imble, J., e. Mar. 1,'65. m. o. Jan. 21,'0{i.
Hendrieks, James, e. Mar. 1,'05. m. o. Jan. 21,
'00.
Hendrieks, Wm., e. Feb. '23.'65. m. o. Jan. 21,
Johnson, Levi, e. Feb. 25,'65. m. o. Jan. 21, '(iO.
McKinney. J. G., c. Mar. 2, '65. m. o. Jan. 21,
'66.
Ohern, M., e. Feb. 24,'65. m. o. Jan. 21, '66.
Turl, F., e. Mar. 1,'65. m. o. Jan. '21, '06.
SOth INFANTRY
Was organized in the mouth of August, 1861,
by Col. Moses M. Bane. The .50th was engaged
at Shiloh, April 61hand7th; engaged in the
siege of Corinth, May, 1862. June 4 it pursued
the enemy as far as Bjoneville, Miss., return-
ing to Corinth June 10. The regiment wsus en-
gaged in a number of battles and skirmishes,
during their service. About three-fourdis of
the regiment re-eidisted as veterans and were
mustered Jan. 16,'04, when they left for Illinois
for veteran furlough. The 50th was one of the
best drilled regiments in the service. In the
prize drill July 3,'05, with the G3d Illinois, 7th
Iowa and .50th Illinois competing, the latter
won the prize banner. They were mustered
out of service July 13, 1865.
Lieutenant- Colo n el.
Mer\-in B. Converse, e. Sept. 10, '61, m. o. July
13, '65.
Adjutant.
Walter S. Wood, e. Aug. 26, '64, res. April 14, '65.
QtmrfermaMfr Sergeant.
\. J. Ransom, e. Sept. 10,'01,d. Julvl5,'62, dis.
Miller, Wm., Co. F, e. Nov. 14, '64.
Randall, Stephen, Co. F, e. Nov. 14, '64, m. o.
July 13, '65.
Seott, Joseph, Co. F, e. Nov 14, 'M, m. o. July
13, '65.
COMPANY G.
Captain.
Jacob Fleming, e. Sept. '25,'61, m. o. July 13,'65.
First Lieutenants.
E. P. Birrett, e. Dec. 12.'61, res. July 13,'62.
Lewis Zolman, e. Sept. lO.'Ol, res. Aug. 31, '62.
James D. Graham, e. Sept. 25, '61, m. o. July
13, '65.
Second Lieutenant.^.
J. B. Strode, e. Sept. lO.'Ol. m. o. July 13,'65.
A. S. Wright, e. Dec. 14,'61, kid Gct.'5,'64.
Sergeant.
J. W. DeVaney, e. Sept. 10,'61. m. o. July 13,'G5.
Corporals.
Wm. Gustin, e. Oct. 1,'61, d. May 6,'fi2, dis.
J. A. Gustin, e. Oct. 1,'61, m. o. Oct. 7,'64.
O. S. Hunger, e. Sept. 10,'61.
Privates.
Burgett, W. C, e. Sept. 10,'61, m. o. Sept. '27,'64.
Bvbee, C. H.,e. Oct. 1.'61.
Blain, J. H., e. Sept. 19,'61, m. o. July 13,'65,
corpl.
Binghman, W. H., e. Get. 8,'61, died July 19.'02.
Comptou, J. J., e. Sept. 24, '01, m. o. Sept. 27, '04.
Chicken, N. D., e. Get, 12,'01, m. o. Oct. 7,'64.
Culver, Solon, e. Oct. 8, '61, m. o. Oct. 7, '64,
corpl.
Fridley, A. T., e. Oct. 1,'61, m. o. Sept. 27,'64.
Fate, Martin, e. Oct. l.'Ol, m. o. Sept. 27, '64,
corpl.
Fate, G. R., e. Sept. lO.'Ol, m, o. Sept. 27,"04.
(Jraham, J. S., e. Sept. 25,'01, d. July 1,'02, dis.
Holt, Ira, e. Sept. lU.'Ol, m. o. Sept. •27,'64.
Jennings, G. W., e. Sept. 24,'01, d. June 17, '02,
dis.
Knock, W. R., e. Oct. 1,'61, m. o. July 13,'65,
Sergt.
Knock, Bruce, e. Oct. 1,'01, m. o. Sept, 27, '64.
Leslie, T. H., e. Sept. 10,'61, pro. hos. steward,
U. S. A.
Moon, D. R., e. Sept. ]0,'01, m. o. Sept. 27, '64.
McQueen, T., e. Oct. 1,'01, v. m. o. July 13,'65,
sergt.
McGee, Terry, e. Oct. 8,'01, v. m. o. July 13,'65,
sergt .
Nolan, Augustus, e. Oct. 8,'61, m.o. Oct. 7,'64.
Nolan, John, e. Oct. 8,'61, d. June 21, '62, wnds.
Overton, C. E., e. Sept. lO.'Ol, iiro. 1st sergt. 1st
Ala. Inf.
Quigley. E. J., e. Sept. 10,'61, m. o. Sept. 27,''64.
Reese, H, B., e. Sept. 10, '01, m. o. Sept. 27, '64.
Reese. J. W., e. Sept. lO.'Ol, m. o. Sept. 27.'04.
Wheeler, A. O., e. Sept. lO.'Ol, m. o. Sept. 27,'04.
Wyant, I. F., e. Oct. 8,'01, m. o. Oct. 7,'64.
Zolman, A. P., e. Oct. 8,'61, kid. May 16,'62.
Anderson, R. R., e. Mar. 7, '65, m. o. Jidy 13, '65.
Anthony. Wm., e. Mar. 9, '65, m. o. July 13. '65.
Anderson, J. S., e. Jan. 26, '64, d. Mar. 7,"'65, dis.
Bogue, Wm., e. Feb. 8,'64, m. o. July 13,'65,
corpl.
Bean, Joseph, e. Feb. 4, '64, m. o. Jtilv 13, '65.
Berry, Tlios. A., e. Feb.2.5,'64, m. o. .tuly 13,'65.
Bradley, Samuel, e. April 1, '65, m.o. Jidv 13, '65.
Chicken, John, e. Jan. 20, '05, m. o. July 13, '05.
Conn, G. W., e. Mar. 7, '05, abs. sick at m. o. of
regt.
Dor.sey, N. H., e. Mar. 7,'G5, m. o. July 13,'65.
Graham, J. S., e. Feb. 8,'64, m. o. July 13,'65,
corpl.
Gustine, Wm., e. Mar. 7,'65, m. o. July 13,'65.
Graham, J. T., e. Feb. 10,'65, m.o. Ju'lv 13,'65.
Gregory, D. B., e. Feb. 10, '65, m. o. July 13, '65.
362
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Hoopes, John.'e. Jan. 26, '(U. m. o. Julvl3,'65.
Knock, .T. N.,e. Feb. 2.5, '64, m. o. July 13,'6.5.
Lamb, E. H., e. Mar. 7,'6.i, m. o. Julv 13, "0.1.
Mathe\v.s, J. T., Feb. 1CI,'6.5, m. o. July 13,'6.5.
>rcMullen, Rufus. e. Mar. 7, '65, m.o. Julv
13,'fw.
Pickering, A. L., e. Jlar. 9, '6.5, m. o. July 13, '65.
Parks, James, e. Mar. 7, '65, m. o. July 13, '65.
Pickering, J., e. Feb. 10, '65, m. o. June i6, '65.
Strode, .\. H., e. Feb. 8,'64, m. o. Julv 13,'6.5.
Strode. \V. .«., e. Feb. 10,'65, m. o. July 13,'65.
Allder, I. F., e. Nov. 14, '64, died Jan. 18,'65.
Cory, J. W., e. Nov. 17, '64, m. o. July 13, '65.
Klemj), A., e. Nov. 30, '64, m. o. Julv 13,'65.
Marshall, J. M., e. Nov. 14,'64, m.o."july ],'65.
Poe, Anthony G., e. Nov. 14, '64, died Jan. 12,
'65.
51st INFANTRY
Was organized December 24, '61, and on Febru-
ary 14,'62, was ordered to Cairo, 111., Col. Cum-
mings commanding. April 7, the regiment
moved against Island No. 10: on the <Sth pur-
sued the enemy, compelling the surrender of
f!eu. Mackall. On the 11th embarked and
moved down the Mississippi to Osceola, Ark.,
and disembarked on the 22d. The 51st partic-
ipated in the battles of Farmington, siege of
Corinth, Nashville, Stone River, Chickamauga,
Roc-ky Face Ridge, Kenesaw Mountain and
many others. They were in the thickest of the
fight at (^hickamauga, sustaining heavy loss,
nearly one-half of the number engaged being
killed or wounded. They also sustained a
severe loss at Kenesaw Mountain. The regi-
ment was heavily engaged in the battle of
Nashville, December 1, where they lost 150 men
in killed, wounded and mi.ssing. The .51st was
mustered out at Camp Irwin, Texas. .'Septem-
ber 25, 1S65, and arrived at Camp Hutler, Octo-
lier 15, 1865, where they received final pay and
discharge.
COMPANY 1.
Captain.
Henrv Augustine, e. Feb. '25, "65, m. o. Sept.
2.'V65.
First Lirutcnant.
Geo. A. Turner, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Sept. •25,'65.
^ Second Lieutenant.
Samuel Nntt, e. Feb. •23,'65, m. o. Sept. •25,'65.
First Sergeant.
» \V. I). Johnson, e. Feb. '25, '65, m.o. Sept. 25, '65.
Sergeant.
.T. P. Fox, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Sept. '25, '65.
W. H. Brown, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Sept. •25,'65.
George Black, e. Feb. '25, '65, m. o. Sept. 25, '65.
.las. H. Burk, e. Feb. 25,'6.5, m. o. Sept. •25,'6.5.
CorporalK.
Jesse Beason, e. Feb. 25, "65, m. o. Sept. 25.'65. •
John Newton, e. Feb. 25, '(io, m. o. Sept. 25.'65-
J. M. Putnam, e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25, '65-
Malen Blanvett, e. Feb. 25, '65, m.o. Sept. 25, '65
Geo. Sebree, e. Feb, '25, '65, m. o. Sept. 25. '65.
Philander Wilkins, e. Feb. '25,'65, m. o, Sept.
2.5, '65.
Peter Walling, e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25, '65.
Musicians.
Theodore Wilson, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Sept.
25,'6.5.
W. E. Walgamot, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Sept.
•2.5, '6.5.
Wagoner.
Isaac V. Dean, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Sept. '25, '65.
Privates.
Bailey, V. L., e. Feb. •25.'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Birkshire, J. C, e. Mar. 16,'65, m.o. Sept. 25,'65.
Baylor, J. R.. e. Feb. 25. '65, m. o. Sept. '25. '65.
Birkshire, Hamilton, e. Mar. 13, '65, m. o. Aug.
18, '65.
Bringar, W. H., e. Mar. 20,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Barber, Robert, e. Mar. 16, '65, m. o. Sept. '25.
'(55, corpl.
Black, W. H., e. Feb. •25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Bryant, Daniel, e. Feb. 25,'65, m.o. Sept. 25,'65,
Barber, Geo. W., e. Feb. •25,'65, m. o. Sept.
■25, '65.
Bennett, E., e. Feb. 2-5. '65, m. o. Sept. 25. '65.
Bragg, J. F., e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. May 11, '65.
Burkinshaw, Geo., e. Feb. '25,'65, m. o. Sept.
25, '65.
Blaine, James, e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Ball, Harrison, e. Feb. 25, '65, ni. o. Sept. 25, '65.
Connelly, S. L., e. Feb. 25, '65, m.o. Sept. 25,'65.
Cisco. M. S.. e. Feb. 14, '65, died April 9,'6.5.
Cox, John B., e. Mar. 20, '65, m. o. Sept. '25, '65,
Conlin, Thos., e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. '25/65.
Cooper, H. A., e. Feb. 25, '65, m, o. Sept. 25, '65.
Davis, D. T., e. Feb. •25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
David.son. Wm., e. March 18, '65, m. o. Sept.
'25, '65.
Dewey, Frederick, e. Feb. 23, '65, m. o. Sept.
25, '65.
Dunkin. Joseph, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Aug. 9,'65.
Edgar, Thomas, e. Feb. "25, ,65, m. o. Sept. 25, '65.
Fox, J. P.. e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. '25, '65.
Ford, Thomas, e. Feb. '25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25.'65.
Grovendyke, Garrett, e. Mar. 13, '65, died Aug.
6, '65.
Garrison, J. \V., e. Mar. 20,'65.
Greenslit, Hubert, c. Feb. '25, '65, m. o. Sept.
25, '65.
Harris, Isaac, c. Mar. 20,'65, m. o. Sept. 25, '65.
John.son, Erick, e. Feb. '25, '65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Jones, W. W.. e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Jones, James, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Knapi>, J. D., e. Feb. '25, '65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Luther. John, e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. '25, '65.
.McICinney. E., e. >Iar. 14, '65, in. o. Sept. 25, '65.
Moore, Ezekiel, e. Fel). 14, "65, m.o. Sept. 25,'65.
McCreary, W. H., e. Feb. '25. '65, m. o. Aug.
62,'6.5.
McCreary, J. L., e. Mar. •20,'65, m.o. Sept. 15,'65.
-McKinlev, M. G., Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Mille, G.'W., e. Feb. •2.5.'65.
Mills, Andrew, e. Feb. •25.'65, m. o. Sept. •25,'65.
Oatman, Jacob, e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Provard, Robert, e. Feb. 25, '65, m. o. Aug.
9, '65.
Provard. C. W., e. Feb. 25,'65, died April 2,'65.
Pickett, W. W., e. Feb. •25,'65, m. o. May 23,'65.
Pretman, J. W., Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Pavton, Elijah, e. Feb. 25,'65, m.o. Sept. 25,'65.
Rooks. William, e. Feb. •25,'65, m.o. Sept. 25,'65.
Rawalt. John, e. Mar. 6, '65, m. o. Sept. 25, '65.
Schooley, Benj., c. Feb. •25,'65, m.o. Sept. •25,'65.
Sebree, Preston, e. Feb. 25,'65m. o. Sept. '26,'65.
Singleton, Milton, e. Feb. '25, '65, m. o. Sept.
25, '65.
Scott, Robert, e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'6o.
Scrivner, Leander, e. Mar. ■20,'65, m. o. Sept.
25, '65.
See. David, e. Mar. 17,'65, m. o. Sept. 8, '65.
Sylva, T. W., e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Sept. •25,'65.
Wilke, J. H., e. Feb. 25,'65, m. o. Mav 23,'65.
Wilcoxen, W. H., e. Feb. '25, '65, m. o. Sept.
•25, '65.
Ward, E. L., e. Mar. 18,'65, m. o. Sept. 15,'65.
Wages. John, e. Fel). 2o,'65, m. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Wise, Jacob, e. Feb. 25,'6o, m. o. Sept. 25, '65.
Eldridge, J. B., Co. B, e. Dec. 24, 'G3, kid. June
20, '64.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
363
Thos. McCor-.nick, corpl., Co. F, e. April l.').'Gl>,
m. o. June 16,'65.
Jones, Warren, Co. F, e. Mav .S,'62.
Kellv, F. M., Co. F, e. A))ril 24,'62, m. o. June
16, '65.
Wisner, W. E., e. Dee. 2J.'63, Co. I, 52d Inf.,
m. o. July 0,'65.
Williams, E.'C, e. Feb. 6,'(;4, Co.I, 52d Inf., m.
o. June 24, "Go.
53d INFANTRY.
Mann, C. W., Co. A., v. Oct. 19, '64, sub. ni. o.
July 22, '6.5.
Sommers, A. J., Co. A.,e. Dec. 7, '64, sub. m. o.
July 22, '65.
COMPANY K.
Edwin Vaucler\-ere, Coriil. e. Jan. ;<,'62. klii.
Oct. 5, '62.
Cameron, A. A., e. Jan. 9, '62. d. Aiil. 2o,'63.
dis.
Elliott, I. v., e. Jan. '.),'6i died Apl. 10,'62.
Elliott, Jasper, e. Jan. '.»,'62. died June 21,'62.
MeCabe, John, e. Jan. 1(),'62. died Apl. 12,'62.
Shields, J. B., e. Jan. '.i.'62. ni. o. Fel). It'i.'ii.'y.
Warner, S. 1)., e. Jan. lo.'lil. ni. o. July 22, '65.
Carr, William, e. :Mar. 11, '62. died July S,'62.
Kirk, Wm., e. Mar. 10, '62. d. Oct. 16, '62. dis.
Keys, T. J., e. Mar. 8,'62.
Kirk, George, e. Mar, 9,'65. m. o. July 22, '65.
Lovell, George, e. Mar. .s,'62. m. o. 'Slur. 26, '65.
Loyell, Sam'l., e. Mar. S,'62. m. o. July 15, '65.
pris.
Marble, H. A., e. Mar. 8, '62.
Richardson, Oils, e. Mar. 1, '62. d. June is, '62.
dis.
Ellison, Silas, e. Dec. 7, 'til. ni. o. July 22, '65.
MeCune, H. S., e. Mar. 1,'62. .
Sandeison, J. C. e. Mar. 11, '62. d. Dec. 24, '62.
dis.
Niblack, J. M.,e. Apl. 15,'65. m. o. May 8, '65.
Tunderberk, D. H., e. Apl. 15, '65. m. o. May 8,
'65.
Saffer, John F., e. Noy. 14, '64, Co. F., 3d Inf.
m. o. July 22,, 65.
55th INFANTRY
Was organized at Camp Douglas, and mustered
into service Oct. .31, 1861. Nov. 9, left Camp
Douglas. Remained at Camp Benton until
Jan. 12, 1862, when it was ordered to Paducah,
Ky. On the morning of March 15 marched
out with expedition from a point some 14
miles above Pittsburg Landing, for the sur-
prise and overthrow of Corinth.
The opening of the battle, Sunday morning,
found the regiment in posi tion with an effec-
tive force of 873 men. Col. Stewart was
wotxnded and 9 of the line offlcers, 3 of whom
died of wounds; 102 enlisted men were killed
and mortally wounded, and 161 wounded and
taken prisoners. The regiment was with the
army in advance on Corinth, and at Russell's
house, May 17, lost, in skirmish, 8 men,— 2
killed and 6 wounded. Entered Corinth May
30; thence, \Ht\\ Gen. Sherman, westward
along Memjihis and Charleston R. R. The
regiment re-embarked with army, and was
present and under fire at battle of Arkansas
Post, Jan. 10 and 11, 1863, losing three men
wounded. Was at Vicksburg in 1863, partici-
pating in the tight. Participated in the siege
of Jackson, Miss. On 30th Oct., 1863, marched
from East Point, (m Tennessee river, for Chat-
tanooga. During night of 23rd, with rest of
brigade, manned a fle^t of pontoon boats in
North Chiekamauga creek, and in the midst of
rain and intense darkness, with muffled oars,
descended and crossed the Tennessee river and
captured the enemy's picket line. Nov. 25,
marched with Sherman to the relief of Knox-
ville, E. Tenn. June 27, 1864, participated in
assault upon Kenesaw Mountain, Ga. July 22
the regiment was again engaged, with aneftec-
tive force of 239 men, and came out of the en-
gagement with 180 men. Was in the siege of
Athmta: in battle of Jonesboro. In a short
campaign of a little over two months the regi-
ment lost half its number. Marched with
army, via Ricnmond, to Washington; partici-
pated in the grand review at W'ashington.
During its term of service the regiment
marched 3,374 miles.
Lieutenant-Colonel.
Theodore C. Chandler, e. Dec. 19,'62. res. July
3, '64.
Surgeon.
Charles B. Tompkins, e. Nov. 25, '64. m. o. Aug.
14, '65.
Fird Amstant Surgeon.
John B. Tompkins, e. May 5,'65. m. o. Aug. 14,
'65.
COMPANY A.
Captains.
Wm. N. Bresson, e. Oct. 31, '61. res. Mar. 13,'62.
Jacob M. Augustine, e. Oct. 31, '61. kid. June
27, '64.
Henry Augustine, e. Aug. 23,'61. m. o. Nov. 6,
'64.
Harrison H. Priokett, e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Aug.
14,'6.5.
First Lieutenants.
Casper Shleich, e. Oct. 31,'61. kid. Dec. 29,'62.
Capt.
Wm. F. Cootes, e. Sep. 1,'61. res. Mar. 30,'63.
Capt.
Wm. McCumber, e. Sep: 2,'61. m. o. Aug. 14,'65.
Sergt.
Second Lieutenants.
Levi Hill, e. Sep. 30,'61. kid. May 19, '63.
John P. Phillips, Sergt. e. Aug. 23, '61.
Corporals.
Geo. Luckey, e. Aug. 12,'61. d. July 24,'62. dis.
John C. Glass, e. Aug. ;50,'61. kid." May 19,'63.
1st Sergt.
Peter Shleich, e. Aug, 31, '61. Trans, to I. C.
S. J. Simpson, e. Aug. 9,'61.
G. A. Buftum, e. Oct. 7,'61. d. Jan. '63. dis.
Privates.
Apple, N., e. Sep. 10, '61.
Banks, J. M., e. Julv 31, '61.
Babbitt, C. e. Aug."9,'61.
Bolander, Harvey, e. Sep. 2,'61. kid. July 22,
'64.
Bull, Wm., e. Aug. 9,'61.
Boyle, Jason, e. Sep. 12,'61.
Burnside, G. M., e. Sep. 14, '61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Barclay, J. M,, e. Oct. 9, '61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Brown, E. C, e. Sep. 2,'6]. d. Jan. 28,'63. dis.
Burns, John, e. Sep. 20,'61. kid. Mav 22,'63.
Sergt.
Brader, Sam'l., e. Oct. 10.'61. m. o. Oct. 31,'64.
Barclay. J. C, e. Sep. 11, '61. m, o. Oct. 31, '64.
364
HISTORY OF FULTON COUXTY,
CoTkendall, M., 'c. Oct. 16,'61. ;d. Jan. 28,'6.3.
dis.
Cox, M. T., e. Sep. l.'fil. m. o. Aug. 14. "65.
Coleman, ,W. H., e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Aug. 14,
'6.5.
Chambers, Chas., e. Sep. 2,'61.
Cadwallader, John. e. Sep. 2,'61, pro. Lieut.
2d Mississippi Col'd Regt.
Clark, James, e. Sep. 14,'61. died July 0,'64.
wds.
Deford, Milton, e. Aug. 31, '61.
Deems, Joseph, e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Sergt.
Duryea. B. F., e. Sep. 2,'Gl. m. o. Oct. 31,'64.
Deford, Thijma.s, e. Sep. 1,'61.
Eveland, Lorenzo, e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Oct. 31,
'64.
Elrodd, T. J., e. Aug. .31, '61. died Aug. 21, '63.
Frye, David J., e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Aug. 14,
'6.5. .sergt.
Filer, Lorenzo, e. Sep. 3,'61, m. o. Oct. .31,'64.
Garritt. S. S., e. Sep. 24,'61. trans, to Art.
Glass, W. M., e. Oct. 12,'61. m. o. Aug. 14.'65.
corpl.
Gav, J. H., e. Sep. 14.'61. d. Sep. 4.'62. dis.
HufTard, F. M., e. Sep. ]0.'61. died Nov. 19,'63.
Hart, H. L., e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
corpl.
Hamilton, C. F., e. Aug. 31,'61. m. o. Oct. 31,
'64.
Holden, Bartley, e. Aug. 31, '61. Missing in ac-
tion June 27, '64.
Hebb, Joseph, e. Julv .3n,'61. m. o. Oct. .31, 'W.
Hastey, Willis, e. Oct. o.'Ol. kid. July 2.S.'64.
Jones, Abner, e. Sep. 2, '61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Lowe, W. H., e. Aug. 5,'6]. m. o. Oct. 31. '64.
Lowden, James, e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Oct. 31,
'64.
Lowder, A. J., e. Aug. :!1,'61. m. o. Aug. 14,
'6.5. Sergt.
Lenhiirt, H'enrv, e. Aug. 31, '61. died Aug. 21,
'63.
Lingenfelter, Aarou, e. Aug, 0,'61. m. o. July
22, '6.5. V.
Lenhart. Is uah, e. Aug. 31, '61.
Miran, Chus., e. Aug. ]3,'6l. died Oct. 17,'6.3.
Mitchell, Mathews, e. Aug. 13,'61. m. o. Aug.
14, '65. Corpl. V.
Maxwell, A. B., e. Aug, S,'61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Maxwell, D. R., e. Aug. 5,'61. d. Mar. 10,'65.
dis. V.
McCiimber, Orvill, e. Sep. 2,'61. d. Jan. 28,'63
dis.
Mills, J. H., e. Sept. 13,'61. m. o. Aug. 14,'fi.5.
Sergt. V.
Morgan, Newton, e. Sept. 13,'61. m. o. Oct. 31,
'64.
McCiiUough, J. R., e. Aug. 2.5,'61. m. o. Aug.
14. '65. corpl. V.
Negley, Daniel, e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Nov. 1,'64.
sergt.
Norman, James, e. Sep. 12,'61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Prickett, J. P., e. Sep. .3, "61.
Porter, Edgar, e. Oct. 17,'61. m. o. Nov. 1,'64.
Pritchard, Benj., e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Mar. 27.
'6.5.
Pollock, Harrison, e. Oct. 7,'61.
Porter, F. J., e. Aug. 31, '61. d. Sep. 14,'62. di.s.
Peters, W. T., e. Aug. 13,'61.
Robbins, J. F., e. Aug. 26, '61.
Redfarm, Mark, c. Aug. 31, '01. ra. o. Oct. 3], '64.
Rockhold, Chas., e. Aug. 5, '61. died Sep. 11, '63.
Reeves, D. M., e. Sep. 6, '61.
Ross, S. M., e. Aug. 31, '61.
Roseboom, A., e. Oct. 9,'61.
Scanlan, Tho's., e. Aug. 8.'G1. m. o. Aug. 14.
'65. corpl. V.
Shaw, Harvey, e. Oct. 5, '61. m. o. Mavl0.'6.5, v.
Sebree, James, e. Aug. 10,'61. m. o. Oct. 31,'64.
corpl.
Tobin, Patrick, e. Sep. 2,'61. kid. May 10,'G3.
Vaughn, J. A., e. Aug. 15,'61. m. o. Aug. 14,
'65. V,
White, J. M.,e. Aug. 8.'61. d. June6,'65. wds. V
Wheeler, J. P., e. Sep. 24,'61. m. o. Aug. 14,'65-
Sergt. V.
Williamson, N.. e. Aug. 22,'61.
Wilson, Benj., e. Aug. 31, '61. d, Sep. 4, '62. dis.
White, J. H., e. Aug. 31, '61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Wellington, H., e. July 31, '61. m. o. Oct. 31,'64.
Cox. A^ J., e. Mar. 7. '65. m. o. June 8,'65.
Fiugle, C. P., e. Mar. 7,'65. m. o. Aug. 14,'65.
COarPANY D.
First Lieutenants.
J. R. Robert.s, e. Sep. 12, "61. m. o. Nov. 26, '62.
Jacob Frink, e. Sep. 12,'61. m. o. O.n. 30,'64.
Wm. S. Johnson, 2nd Lieut., e. Oct. 31, '61. Res.
Mar. 5, '62.
Chas. G. Burnap, 1st Sergt. e. Sep. 12,'6].
J. K. Niles, 1st Sergt. e. Sep. r2,'61. m. o. Nov.
4,'64.
Sergeants.
Job Vaughn, e. Sep. '22, '61. m. o. Nov. 1,'64.
James M. Green, e. Oct. 11,'61. m. o. July 12,65.
Corporals.
M. C. Athearn, e. Oct. 8, '61. kid. Aug. 31, '64.
sergt.
James Havell, e. Sep. 12, "61. v.
T. Wilhelm, e. Sep, 12,'61. m. o. Nov. 1,'64.
sergt.
.Tames Knapp, e. Sep. 22,'61, m. o. Oct. .31, '64.
J. A. Knott, e. Oct. .s,'61. d. Jan. 2S,'63. di.s.
Asa Morris, e. Sep. 22. '61. m. o. Aug. 14. '65. 1st
sergt. v.
Privates.
Abbott, Joseph, e. Oct. 8, '61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64-
Athearn, J. F., e. Oct. 8.'61. m. o. Oct. 31, ,64.
Bavless, Wm., e. Oct. l'.t.'61.
Boiincy, W. W., e. Oct. 8,'61. m. o. Oct. 14,'65.
Sergt. V.
Bonncy, S. P., e. Oct. 18,'61. m. o. Oct. 31.'64.
Burlingame, Sam'l.. e. Sep. 22, '61. d. Jan. 28,
'63. dis.
Bulger, John, e. Sep. 22,'61. m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Burk, D. S,, e. Sep. 12,'61. kid. Aug. 12,'64.
Bragg. J. F., e. Sep. 22,'61. died Jan. 1,'64.
Carder. Benj., e. Oct. 5, '61, died Jan. 15, '64.
Curry, J. W., e. Sept. 16,'61. kid. May 19,'63.
Conger, John, e. Sept. ]2,'61.
Cameron, J. H., e. Oct. 8,'61, m. o. July 15,'65,v.
Curfman, G. W., e. Oct. 19,'61, m. o. Aug. 14,
65, sergt. v.
Campbell, W. H., e. Oct. •29,'61, m. o. Oct.31,'64.
Cheuhall, Philip, e. Oct. 1,'Gl. died .Jan. 10,'62.
Criss, W. IL, e. Sep. 27, "61, m. o. Oct. 31, "64.
Dewev. A. S., e. Oct. l>i.'61, missing at Shiloh.
Davisi', Benj., e. Oct. 20,'61, d. Feb. 11,'6'2.
Erwin, Je.'^.se. e. Sept. 8, '61.
Fields, G. H., e. Aug. 26,'61.
Fisher, Jacob, e. Oct. 15, '61.
Greathouse, Daniel, e. Sept. 11, '61.
Hughes, T. H., e. Sept. 12,'61.
HufFord, James, e. Sept. 12, '61, m. o. Aug. 14,
'65, V.
Hill, Solomon, e. Oct. 8,'61, d. .Tan. 28,'63, dis.
Hartson, James, e. Oct. 18,'61.
Hallibaugh, Wm., e. Oct. 19,'61, d. Jan. 28,'63,
dis.
Johnson, Thos., e. Oct. 22,'61.
Jordan, Chas., e. Sept. 14,'61.
Knight, .SamL, e. Oct. 11, '61, m. o. Aug. ]4,'65,
Corpl. V.
Laswell, James, e. Oct. S.'61.
Michaels, F. A., e. Oct. 24, '61.
Paden, E. F., e. Se])t. 27,'61, m. o. June 17. '65.
Pallett, Geo., e. Sept. 12,'61, m. o. Oct. 31,'64.
Parker, G. T., e. Sept. 11, '61.
Ross, W. A., e. Oct. 22,'6].
Rodenbangh, L. N., e. Sept. 22,'61, died Nov.
16, '62, wnds.
Sheaneman, John, e. Oct. 17, '61, m. o. Aug. 14,
'65, Corpl. pris.
Saville, Edward, e. Sept. 29.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
365
Shaw, Hiram, e. Oct. 19,'61, m. o. Aug. 14,'65.
Sh:i\v, James, e. Oct. '25,'t)l.
Sebree, Preston, e. Sept. 22. 'Gl.
Shoup, A. D., e. Sapt. 22,'Gl. m. o. Aug. 14, '64.
Smith, H irrisou, e. Sjpt. 22,'61, d. Jan. 28, dis.
Shelleuberger, Wm., e. Aug. 19,'tJl.
Twitchell, S. B., e. Aug. 2G,'(>1.
Tliompsoa, S. L., e. Sept. 22,'Gl.
Vice, (t. B., e. Sept. 22, '61, trans. V. R. C.
White, T. J., e. O.'t. 8,'Gl, died Dec. 26,'61.
Wilkie, J. W., e. Oct. y,'6].
Young, James, e. Oct. 1,'Gl.
Yates, T. J., Oct. 18, 'Gl.
COMPANY F.
Qiptain.
Vincent Brink, e. Oct. 3,'61, died Oct. 31, 'G3.
Sergeant.
H. M. Hiney, e. 03t. 4,'61, m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Corporals.
Mason McCane, e. Oct. 4,'Gl.
P. B. Ferguson, e. Oct. 4,'Gl, d. Jan. 2S,'63, dis.
sergt.
RichirJ Hmey, e. Oct. 4, '61, kid. Mav 22, '63.
J. H. Beadles, e. Oct. 4,'Gl, d. Dec. G,'G2, dis.
Privates.
Bond, B. F.,e. Oct, 12, '61.
Cjllier, Wm., e. Oct. 5,'Gl, m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Fugue, J. N., e. Oct. 8,'61, ra. o. Aug. 14,'G5, v.
Lyaarger, L., e. O't. 3, '61.
Liitz, A. B., e. On. 5,'61, died Dec.'62.
McCaughey, J. W.. e. On. 3,'Gl, m. o. Oct.31,'G4.
M_'Elr,)y, W., e. O -t. 3),'G1, d. Feb. 18, 'G3, dis.
S uiders, F. S., e. Oct. 3,'Gl.
Faiss, Saml., e. Oct. 12. '61, d. July 25, '65, dis. v.
Bjve IS, Corydju, e. Njv. 26,'Gl.
B. C. Swar.s, 1st Lieut. Co. K, e. Oct. 31, '61, res.
Mar. 13, '62.
COMPANY G.
Captain.
Peter Rjberts, e. Aug. 20,'61, m. o. Aug. 14,'65.
Privates.
Loucks, Delos, e. Oct. 4. '61.
Gay, J. VV., e. Jan. 2,'61, m. o. Aug. 14,'65,
sergt. wnds.
57tli INFANTRY.
Prior, M. F., e. Dec. 16,'61, Co. I, 57th Inf. m. o.
Dec. 24, '61.
Wages, C. H., e. Dec. 16, '61, Co. I, 57th Inf, m.
o. Julv 7, '65, corpl.
Wages, Alfred, e. Dec 16, '61, Co. I, 57th Inf. m.
o. July 7, '65, corpl.
Bowley, David, e. Jan. 4,'62, Co. I, 57th Inf.
Thomas, J. N., Sept. 17, '61, Co. K, 57th Inf. d.
Sept. 14, '62, dis.
Thorn, Michael, e. Sept. 28,'61, Co. K, 57th
Inf. d. Sept. 14, '62, dis.
58tli INFANTRY.
Shreve, J. A., sergt., Co. B, e. Feb. 24, '64, ra. o.
June 24,'GG.
Skinner. J. L., Co. C, e. Aug. 2,'64, m. o. April
1,'66.
Castle, Diniel, Co. F, e. May 17,'65, m. o. Nov.
17,'66.
Farris, Wm., Co. I, e. May 14, '65, m. o. Nov.
24, '66.
Girdner, John, Co. I, e. Mav 25. '65.
Morris, Wm., Co. I, e. May27,'G5.
59tli INFANTRY.
Nichols, W. C, Co. A, e. July 17, '61, d. Dee. 4,
'62, dis.
FielUng, E., Co. C, e. Dec. 5,'63, kid. June
27/64.
Herr, G. W., Co. C, e. Jan. 5,'64, m. o. Dec.8,'65.
Melvin, T. J., Co. C, e. Dec. 5, "63, pro. com.
sergt.
Nels:)n, B. F., Co. C, e. Dec. 5,'63, m. o. Dec. 8,
'65, sergt.
Stier, G. R., Co. C, e. Dec. 5, '63, pro. 2nd lieut.
eOth INFANTRY.
Harrington, musician Co. E. e. Dec. 25,'61.
Pierce, Jackson, Co. C, e. Dec. 25,'Gl, m. o.
July 31, '65, V.
Hess, W. R., Co. G, e. Mar. 24,'64, m. o. June
2!),'65.
Maxwell, J. M., Co. G, e. Mar. 20,'G4, m. o. June
29, '65.
McConnaday. I., Co. G, e. Mar. 30, '64, m.o. June
3, '65.
61st INFANTRY.
Ball, Joseph J., prin. musician, e. Mar. 11, '62,
m. o. Sept. 8, '65, V.
Jaggers, Nathan, Co. B, e. Feb. 16,'62, m. o.
Sep. 8, '65.
Hibbard, C. M. Co. F, e. Mar. 24,'62, d. July 19,
'62, wnds.
Miller, Lacy, Co. F, e. Mar. 24, '62, died April
23, '62.
Walters, J., Co. F, e. Mar. 24,'G2, m. o. Sept. 8,
'65, corpl.
Whealdon, N., Co. F, e. Mar. 24,'62, d. Oct. 2,
'62, dis.
Walters, James, Co, F, e. Mar. 24, '62.
Winner, W. J., Co. F, e. Mar. 24, '62.
COMPANY I.
Captain.
Henry S. Goodspeed, e. Feb. 1, '62, m. o. Mar.
24, '65.
Privates.
Kimball, Henry, e. Mar. 11, '62, m. o. Sept. 8,
'65, V.
Cunningham, A., e. Mar. 11, '62, m. o. Sept. 8,
G5, V.
Easley, Reese, e. Mar. 11,'62, m. o. Mar. 24,'65,
wnds.
France, John, e. Mar. 11, '62, m. o. Sept. §,'65.
Harris, Isaac, e. Feb, 15,'62, died Oct. ]9,'(>1.
Steeber, V., Co. A. 63d Inf. e. May 14, '64, m. o.
July 13,'65.
Childers, C. W., musician Co. K, 63d Inf. e.
Dec. 1,'61, m. o. July 13,'6.5.
Hendricks, J. M., prin". musician 64th Inf. e.
Dec. 3], '63, m. o. July, 11, 'G5.
Minge, Wesley, Co. D, Glih Inf. e. Nov, 1,'61,
m. o. Dec. 24, '64, corpl.
Hendricks, John, Co. D, &4th Inf. e. Feb. 21,
'64, m. o. July 11, '65.
Wheoles, T. F., Co. I, 64th Inf. e. Jan. 4,'64, m.
o. June ]0,'65.
Mills, S. W., Co. F, 66th Inf. c Mar. 18,'64, m.
o. July 7,'65.
67th (Three Months) Infantry.
H. G. Covkendall, Sergeant- Major, e. May 31,
'62, pro. Capt. Co. D. 72d Inf.
COMPANY F.
Sergeant.
Wm. H. Black, e. May 31, '62. ra. o. Oct. 6,'62.
L. E. Trites, e. May 31, '62, m. o. Oct. G,'62.
H. H. Downing, e. Mav 31, '62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
A. E. Plattenburg, e. May 31, '62, ra.o. Oct. 6,'62.
A. J. Rounk, e. June 12,'G2, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Corporals.
J. H. Rodenbaugh, e.May 31, '62, .n.o. Oct. 6,'62.
L. F. Randolph, e. June 2,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
G. B. Vitturn, e. May 31, '62, ra. o. Oct. G,'G2.
Amos Naylor, e. May 31, '62, ra. o. Oct. G,'62.
Geo. Turner, e. June 4, '62, ra. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Wm. Maxwell, e. May 31,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
366
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Musician.
A. F. Small, e. May 31, '62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Privates.
Andrews, Harvey, e. June 4,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
porpl.
Arnold, J. A., e. June 5,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Black, George, e. May 31, '02, m. o. Oct. 6,'G2.
Berry, John, m. o. Oct. (5, '02.
Barnes, Thos., e June 3,'02, m. o Oct. 6,'C2.
Barker, Deriorn, e. June 3, '02, m. o. Oct. 0,'62.
Bri.ster. W. H., e. June r),'02, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Birch, Chas., e. June 4,'02, m. o. Oct. 6,'02.
Bryant, \Vm., e. June 1,'62, ni. o. Oct. 0,'G2.
Boman, J. H., June 3, '62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Bell. J. M., e. June 2,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'02.
Bates, Edgar, e. June 4, '02, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Gather, Harvey, e. June 5, '62, m. o. Oct. 0,'62.
Gaplinger, Chauncy, e. June 4,'02, m. o. Oct.
6,'62.
Carr, Joseph, e. June 1,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Goles, H. G., e. May 3,'62, m. o.Oct. G,'02.
Devaughn, Kmanviel, e. June 5,'62, m. o. Oct.
6, '62.
Donly, Franklin, e. May 31, '02, d. Jiine 24,'62,
dis.
Denuison, Isaac, e June 2, '62, ni. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Eby, J. M.. e. June 2,'62. ni. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Eads, Jo.«.>ph, e. June 2, '62, m. o. Oct. 6, '02.
Eskridge, J. T., e. June 2,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Emry, J. H., e. June 3, '02, m. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Ellis" Newton, e. June 2, '62, m. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Filch, Asa, e. June 5, '62, m. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Fox, iTanies, e. June 2, '62, in. o, Oct. 0,'62.
Gibbons, Patrick, e. May 31, ni. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Grim, William, June 3, '02, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Hull", Burton, e. May 31, '62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62
Hughes, W. T., c. .Uine 4,'62, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Heckard, Martin, c. June 3,'02, m. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Harwick, James, e. June3,'02, ra. o. Oct. 0,'62.
Jarnagan, John, c. June 2, '62, m. o. Oct. 6,'(i2.
Knapp, J. D., e. June ."),'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Lockwood, John, June 3,'62, ni. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Martin, James, e. May 31, '02, m. o. Oct. 0,'62.
Mills, Joseph, e. June 2, '62, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
McAdams, 8. 1)., e. June 3, '62, ra. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Newhall, Samuel, e. June 4, '62, m. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Oatman, Jacob, e. June 2, '62, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Phelps, S. S., e. June 1,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Proctor, Joseph, c. June 1,'62, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Painter, J. G.. c. June 3, '02, m. o. Oct. 6, '62.
Penny, John, e. June 3,1)2, ni. o. Oct. (),'62.
Reeves, J. VV., e. June 1,'62, m. o. Oct. 0,'62.
Roberts, Stephen, e. June 3, '62, m. o. Oct. 6, '02.
Shraden, G. W., e. June 2, '02, m. o. Oct. 6,'02.
Saville, Daniel, e. June 4, '02, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Sweetser, Luke, e. May 30,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Tanquery, \V. P., e. June 4, '02, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Turner, Albert, e. June 3,'02, m. o. Oct. 0,'02.
Thomas, A. O., e. June 4,'e2, m. o. Oct. 6,'02.
Varner, S. C., e. June 5, '02, m. o. Oct. fl,'02.
Vulgamove, Wm., e. June 5, '62, m.o. Oct. f'>,'02.
Wansel, Wm., e. June 1,'02, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Whiimore, Jacob, e. June 2, '02, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Wilcoxen, Wm., e. June 2,'02, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Williams, William.
Weaver, William, e. June 2,'62, d. June 24,'62,
dis.
Warden, G. W., e. June 6,'62, m. o. Oct. 6,'62.
Youngman, James, e.June 1,'62, m.o. Oct. 6, '02.
Smith, J. A., Co. G, e. June 4,'62. m. o. Oct.
0,'62.
Tlst (Three Months) Infantry.
COMPANY 1>.
Sergeant.
Geo. Mahaffey, e. July 6, '62.
Corporal.
William Hunter, e. July 10,'62.
Privates.
Brunt, James, e. July 4, '62.
Bush, Sampson, e. July 6,'62.
Doran, John, e. July 5, '62.
Davis, John, e. July 4, '02.
Hempill, James, e. Julv 7,'62.
Wilson, G. B., e. July 4,'e'2.
72d INFANTRY.
This regiment was organized at Chicago, as
the First Regiment of the Chicago Board of
Trade. Its tirst bills were put out for one
company, calling itself the "Hancock Guards,"
on July 23,'62, and exactly one month after-
wards the entire regiment was complete and
mustered into service for three years. The
very day of their muster they started for Cairo,
arriving on the 24th. Their strength at that
time was 37 ofHcers and 930 men.
The 72d participated in many engagements
during their three years' service in the field.
At the battle of Franklin, Tenn., they fought
witli commendable bravery, being in the hot-
test of the fight from four in the afternoon till
midnight, during all which time the battle
raged witli terrific fury. In tliis tight the 72d
lost nine officers and l.j2 men, who were either
killed or severely wounded.
COMPANY I.
Captain.
Abiier E. Barnes, e. Aug. 21, '62, pro. by presi-
dent.
First Lieutenant.
Jacob Schank, e. Aug. 14, '62, res. Oct. 2y,'64.
Second Lieutenant.
E. .S. Gorham, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. Aug. 7, '65.
Sergeants.
J. D. Mantania, e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. May 31, '65,
corpl.
S. S. Havvken, e. Aug. 14,'62.
Corporals.
Asa Eagle, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. Nov. 5, '62. wnds.
W. W. Thompson, e. Aug. 14, '62, died Mar.
17,'63.
John Freeborn, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. for pro.
Wm. Sparks, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. Aug. 7, '65,
sergt.
Privates.
Barber, J. S., e. Aug. 14, 'f>2, trans.
Barnes, H. C, e. Aug. 14,'62, d. for pro.
Bags, L. B., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. Aug. 7,'6.'>.
corpl.
Brimstall, D., e. Aug. 14,'62, died April 22,'63.
Cliew, Edward, e. Aug. 14, '62.
Craiml)lelt, J., e. Aug. 14, '62.
Flake, H. B., e. Aug. 14, '62. pro. corpl.
Fuller, I. O., e. Aug. 14,'02, m. o. Aug. 7,'65,
sergt.
Gorham, E. S., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. Aug. 7,'65,
sergt.
Hcrr, J. D., c. Aug. 14, '62, d. Sept. 7.'64.
Hovt, Aln-aham, e. .Vug. 11, '02, kid, May 22,'63.
Hai-land, J. M., e. Aug. 14. '02, m. o. Aug. 7,'65.
Knott, J. M., e. Aug. 14, '02, m. o. Aug. 7, '05.
Lucah, W. H., e. Aug. 14,'02, died Dec. 0,'64,
wnds, corpl.
Lecper, G. W., e. Aug. 14, '62, died May 27,'63of
wnds.
McBride, A. J., e. Aug. 14,'02, m. o. Aug. 7,'65.
corpl.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
367
McKeever, J. D., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. May 31,
'65, corpl.
Morris, W. H., e. Aug. 14, '62. m. o. Aug. 7, '65.
Melviii, Eli, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. Aug. 7, '65,
corpl.
Painter, H. H., e, Aug. 14,'62, m. o. Aug. 7, '65.
Peterson, Robert, e. Aug. 14,'62, ra. o. Aug.
7, '65.
Pool, Thomas, e. Aug. 14, "62. m. o. Aug. 7. '65,
corpl.
Sullivan, .T. H., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. Aug. 7, '65.
Throckmorton. Wm., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. May
24, '65.
Thorp, L. R., e. Aug. 14, '62, d. April ;W,'65,
wnds. corpl.
Trulock, S. M., e. Aug. 14, '62, kid. Nov. :50,'64.
Thomas, L. ¥.. e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. Aug. 7, '65,
sergt.
White, James, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. Feb. 7, '6:3, dis.
Vertrice, N. J., e. Jan. 5,'64, trans.
83rd INFANTRY.
Keller, J. H., Co. C, e. Mar. 12,'64, m. o. Sept.
8, '65.
Cook, John, Co. G. e. Aug. 11, '62, d. for pro.
Harshberger, W. H., Co. G. e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o.
June 26,'65.
Jones, E. R., Co. G, e. Aug. 9, '62, m. o. June
26, '65, corpl.
Phillips P., Co. G, e. Aug. 0,'62, kid. April
•29,'65. ■
Rice, Jesse, Co. G, e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. June
26,'65.
Sehocklev, John, Co. G, e. Aug. 9, '62, m. o.
June"26,'65.
Thurman, J. M., Co. G, e. Aug. 10, '62, m. o. Jnn
26,'65.
Moore, Wm., Co. G, e. Mar. 15. '64.
Hendricks, J. J., Co. H, e. Aug. 12, '62, m. o.
June 26, '65.
Palmer, F. R., Co. H, e. Aug. 12,'62, died Nov.
25, '62.
Shaflfer, R., Co. H, e. Mar.8,'65.
Singleton, A. P., Co. H, e. Mar. 4, '65.
Singleton, J. R., Co. H, e. Mar. 4, '65.
Sturgeon, John, Co. H, e. Mar. 8, '65.
THE 84th INANTRY
was organized at Quincy in August, 1862, and
left for Louisville, Ky., Sept. 23rd, 951 strong.
The 84th was a fighting regiment from the
first, and was engaged in the following battles:
Stone River, Dec. 13, '62, Jan. 12 and 13, '63, loss
228 men; Woodbury, Jan. 17, '63; Chicamau-
ga, Sept. 19 and 20, '63, loss 172 men; Lookout
Mountain, Missionary Ridge, and Ringold,
Nov. 24, 25 and 26,'63, loss 9 men ; Dalton, Fel).
22,'64, loss 4 men.
In the Atlanta campaign at Buzzard's Roost,
May 10,'64; Dalton, May 13,'64; Resaca, May 14,
'64; Burnt Hickory, May 26 to 31, and June 1,
2 and 3 ; Kenesaw Mountain, Smyrna, Atlan-
ta, Jonesboro and Lovejoy Station, loss in the
campaign, 125 men; Franklin and Nashville,
loss 20 men. Total casualties in battle, 558
men.
From the 84th but oiie man was taken pris-
oner ; but 10 men deserted ; only 1 man ever
sent to military prison ; and but 4 tried by
court martial.
Lieutenant Colonel.
Thomas Hamer, e. Sept. 1,'62, res. July 24, '63.
Major.
Caleb B. Cox, e. Sept. 1,'62, m. o. June S,'65.
Quarta'master.
James A. Russell, e. Sept. 1,'62, res. July 25, '63.
First Assistant Surgeon.
Frank W. Hunter, e. July 24,'62, res. Sept.
27, '64.
Sergeant Major.
J. B. Green, e. Aug. 5,'62, m. o. June 8,'65.
COMPAXY A.
First Lieutenant.
Thos. G. Wisdom, e. Sept. 1,'62, d. Aug. 25, '63.
Privates.
Carnahan, Fielder, c. Aug. 2,'62, m. o. June
S.'65.
CO.AIPANY B.
Captain.
L. M. Scott, e. Sept. 1,'62, m. o. June 8,'65.
First Lieutenant.
Wm. M. Provine, e. July 30,'62, hon. d. May
15, '65.
Second Lieutenants.
-Emmor Dihvorth, e. Aug. 7,'62, res. Oct. 31, '63.
W. A. Highland, e. July 2S,'62, ra. o. June 8, '65.
Corporals.
Edwin Knock, e. July 28, '62, missing at Chick-
amauga.
Robert A. Burns, e. Aug. 6,'62, died Juno 7,'63.
A. S. Stanton, e. July 2s,'62, m. o. June S,'65,
sergt.
W. J. Moore, e. Aug. 4,'62, d. Mar. 27,'63, dis.
Amos Knock, e. Aug, 6,'62, died Oct. 11, '64,
wnds. sergt.
Privates.
Atherton, David, e. July 2S,'62, m.o. June8,'65.
Bartholomew, L., e. July 20, '62, trans. V. R. C.
wnd.
Boyd, J. E., e. July 31, '62, died Andersonville
pris. June 15,'64, No. of grave 1,471.
Beans, Amos, e. Aug. 2, '62, m. o. June 8, '65.
Bishop, Daniel, e. Aug. 2,'62, d. Mar. 11, '63, dis.
Bartholomew, A., e. Aug. 4, '62, kid. at Chicka-
maugii.
Battin. (.;. ^^'., e. Aug. 7,'62, trans. V. R. C.
Cramlet, Jesse, e. July 28, '62. m. o. June 8,'65.
('adwalder, Jesse, e. July 28, '62, died Dec. 7, '62.
Cope, W. v., e. July 2S,'62, m. o. June 8, '65.
Dilworthy, H. \V., e. Aug. 7,'62. d. Dec. 5,'62.
dis.
Dobbins, W. A., e. July 29,'62. died May28,'64.
wds.
Ea.sley, Mark, e. July 28,'62. m. o. June 8,'65.
Corpl.
Easley, D. L., e. July 28,'62. m. o. June 8,'66.
Faucher, L., e. July 28, '62. wnd. 4 times.
Franklin, Benj., e. July28,'62. trans. V. R. C.
wnd.
Farquhar, I. W., e. Julv 2S,'62. m. o. June 8,
'65. Sergt.
Greenell, 1. W., e. July 28,'62. d. Mar. 24,'63.
wnds.
Hughes, Da^-id, e. July28,'62. trans, to V. R. C.
Hughes, I. M., e. July 28,'62. d. Jan, 22,'63. dis.
Hasty, William, e. July 28.'62. e. Jan. 24, '63.
wnds.
Hall, Francis, e. July 31, '62. m. o. JuneS,'65.
wnds.
Harland, W. V., e. Julv:30,'62. trans, to P. C.
Hickle, G. W., e. Aug. 4, '62. trans, to V. R. C.
Hodyis, Wm., e. Aug. 7, '62. m. o. Jtine 8, '65.
Harland, Monroe, e. Aug. 7, '62. kid. Oct. 11, '63.
Ilillger, Thos., e. July 28,'62. trans. V. R. C.
Johnson, H. A., e. July 28,'62. captured Dec.
31, '62.
Knock, Daniel, e. Julv 25,'62. died Oct. 1,'62.
Kinsey, W. A., e. July 24,'62. d. Apl. 27,'6:5. dis.
Koons, A. J., e. Julv 7,'62. d. Dec. 20,'63. dis.
Miner, J. W. e. July 29,'62. kid. Dec. 31, '62.
368
HISTOEY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
Miller, J. H., e. Aug. 5,'62. m. o. July 9,'65.
Miller, G., e. Aug. »,'G2. died Dec. 7, '64.
Prati. II. v., e. July ii8,'62. m. o. June 8, '65.
Parks, Joseph, e. July 2«,'62.
Russell, Dilworth, e." Aug. 7,'62. m. o. June 8,
'65. Corpl.
Swinkins, Francis, e. July 28,'62. d. Dec. 13,'C4,
wnds.
Shaddock, Robert, e. Aug. 1,'62. died Jan. 10,
'63. wuds.
Walters, W. A., e. July 29,'62. d. Aug. 10,'63.
dis.
Wildman, A. G., e. Aug. 4,'62. kid. at Stone
River.
Websier, Monroe, e. Aug. 7, '62. died Feb. 5, '63.
Y(jst, Samuel, e, Aug. 7, '62. died Nov. 3,'62.
Zoll, Carothers, e. July 23, '62. d. Oct. 20, '64.
wnds. Sergt.
Zinc, J. F., e. July 28,'62. d. Apl. 11, '63. dis.
Nance, H. H., m. o. May 26, '65.
COMPANY F.
Captaim.
Joseph Nelson, e. Sep. 1.'62. res. Dec. 15,'63.
R. D. Dilworth, e. Aug. 7, '62. m. o. June 8. '65.
First Lienteiiant.
F. W. Ross, e. Aug. 7, '62. m. o. June 8, '65.
iSergeants.
J. M. Moore, e. Aug. 7, '62. trans, to V. R. C.
Stephen Bogue, e. Aug. 7, '62. d. Jan. 8, '62. dis.
Corporals.
D. W. Litchfield, e. Aug. 7, '62. died Jan. 11, '63.
wnds.
R. M. Miller, e. Aug. 7,'62. d. Dec. 10,'63. wnds.
Win. Nelson, e. Aug. 8,'62. d, F'eb. 14, '63. wnds.
Wni. Walker, e. Aug. 8,'62. kid. at Stone
River.
Privates.
Adams, J. F., e. Aug. 7, '62. kid. at Chicka-
maugd.
Beers, Jauez, e. Aug. 7, '62. d. Mar. 4, '63. dis.
Brown, Win, e. Aug. 11, '62. died Jan. 5. '63.
Bayer, J. B., e. Aug. 7, '62. trans. Brigade oand.
Brown, Thos., e. Aug. y,'62. d. June 7, '63. dis.
Crater, F. M., e. Aug. y,'62.
Clark, John, e. Aug. y,'62. m. o. June 8, '65.
wnds.
Deobler, T. H., e. Jiilv 28, '62.
Durell, F. VV., e. Aug. 22,'62. d. Apl. 14,'63.
dis.
Dewiit, Solomon, e. Aug. 7, '62. m. o. June 8,
'65.
France, B. H., e. Aug. 7,'62, m. o. June 8,'05,
wnds.
Foster, N. T., e. Aug. 8,'62, m. o. June 8,'65.
Corpl.
Forquer, Wm., e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 8, '65.
Glympse, Eli, e. Aug. 8, '62, kid. at Chicka-
luauga.
Gritiiu, Lewis, e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Mar. 17, '63,
dis.
Kirkuride, John, e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 8,
'65.
Kinnie, E. E., e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 8, '65.
Kinsey, J. R., e. Aug. 7, '62, d. Feb. 9,'63, dis.
Koonts, .r.is., e. Aug. 7, '62.
Knock, W. A., e. Aug, 9, '62, ra. o. June8,'65.
Kirkbride, Wesley, e. Aug. 22, '62, trans. Brig.
band.
Lowe, B. F., e. Aug. 7,'62.
Litchfield, Durant, e. Aug. 7, .62, m. o. June 8,
'6.5.
Morgan, J. H., e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 8,'6.5.
Moore, John, e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 8, '65,
wnd.
Menteer, J. V.,e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 8, '65,
sergt.
McHenry, John, e. Aug. 7, '62, died Dec. 2,'62.
Morrison, J. A., e. Aug. 8, '62, trans. V. R. C.
Moore, Edward, e. Aug. 2,'62, d. Oct. 15,'62.
Martin, A. G. e. Aug. 9,'62.
Nunamaker, J. W., e. Aug. 7, '62, died Sept.
23, .64.
Nebergall, B. P., e. Aug. 10,'62, m. o. June 8,'65.
Porter, A. K., e. Aug. 7, '62, trans, to marine
service.
Porter, E, F., e. Aug. 7, '62.
Purnell, Joseph, e. Aug. 7,62, d. Ap. 16,'63, dis.
Pollock, H. C..e. July 20,'62, died Feb. 27,'64.
Parish, Asburv, e. Aug. 9, '62.
Reese, Jacob, e. Aug. 4, '62, diad Feb. 6,'63.
Benner, Ephraim, e. Aug. 9,'G2, m. o. June 8,
'65, serg.
Bowland, T. R., e. Aug. 9,'62, died Aug. 17,'63.
Sexton, James, c. Aug. 7, '62, d. Mar. 4, '63, dis.
Shafler, L. J., e. Aug. 7. '62, died Dec. 10, '62.
bh.iw, Wm., e. Aug. 7, '62, missing at Stone
River.
Thomas, W. A., e. Ang. 7,'62, m. o. June 8,'65.
Walker, Amos, e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 8,'65.
Hoopis, Ellis, unassigned recruit.
85tli INFANTRY.
The 85th was organized at Peoria in August,
'62, by Col. Robert S. Moore, and mustered in-
to service Aug. 27, '62. Ordered to Louisville,
Ky., Sept. 6,'62, as.signed to Thirty-Sixth
Brigade, Eleventh Division, Tljird Army
C;orps, Col. D. McCook commanding Brigade,
Gen. Sheridan commanding Division, aud
Gen. Gilbert commanding Corps. The 85th
marched in pursuit of the enemy under Gen.
Bragg, Oct. 1,'62, was engaged in the battle of
Champion Hill, at Pe^r^'^■ille, Kentucky, Oct.
8, and moved with the army to Nashville,
Tenn., arriving Nov. 7, '62.
Regiment mustered out June 5, '65, at Wash-
ington, D. C, and arrived at Camp Butler, 111.,
June 11, "65, where they received their final dis-
charge.
Major.
S. P. Cummings, e. Aug. 27, '62, res. April 6, '63.
Quartermaster.
W. H. Evans, com. Jan. 14,'64, m. o. June 5,'65.
COMPANY G.
Captain.
Wm. McClelland, e. Aug. 27,'62, res. Dec. 21,'62.
First Lieutenants.
LaFayette Curless, e. Aug. 27,'62, res. Nov.
12,'62.
J. M. Robertson, e. Aug. 27, '62, m. o. June
5, '65.
Sergeants.
Lewis Post, e. Aug. 11, '62, trans. V. R. C.
Irving Shannon, e. Aug. 11, kid. June 27, '64.
McDonald Cox, e. Aug. 11, '62.
L. D. Gould, e. Aug. 11, '62, died Nov. 1'64.
Corporals.
Wm. Roe, c. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 5, '65, sergt
Henry Aten, e. Aug, 11, '62, m. o. June 5, '65,
1st sergt.
W. F. Brvant, e. Aug. 11, '62.
J F. Keiinedv, e. Aug. 11, '62. trans. V. R. C.
Elias Wheeler, e. Aug. 11, '62, d. Aug. 31,'63,
dis.
Thos. Harlon, e. Ang. 11, '62. m. o. June 5,'65,
sergt.
Perry Adkinson, e. .\ug. 11, '62.
Jackson Smith, e. Aug. 11, '62.
Musician.
Samuel Simmers, e. Aug. 11, '62.
^l/i.-O'/TT^ Ji3^fe^^>'^
CASS TP.
't'5' ? '"*
i -u,>;s
^IS: :^^.d.
BERNADOTTE
^ h
'.--T^Uj^I/
WOODLAND
^ -//
idi^ny ^10^/2^iC€^
Qf THE
X
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
371
Wagoner.
(Jeo. Cooper, e. Aug. 11,'62.
Privates.
AtwaLer, M. L., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June .'),'65.
Atwater, Win., e. Aug. 12, '62, d. Mar 1,'tio dis.
Aten, .Jdhu, e. Aug. 12, '62, m. o. Juue 5, '6.').
Brown, Perry, e. Aug. 12, '62, m. o. June 5, '6.').
Brown, Thos., e. Aug. 12, '62, m. o. June 5, '6.').
Bu.shnell, A. P., e. Aug. 12,'62, ni. o. June '),'K\
Brewer, Aaron, e. Aug. 12,'62, died June 22,'64.
Bovd, Wm., e. Aug. 12,'62, died Feb. 12,'6."..
Castor, S. L., e. Aug 12,'62, m. o. June5,'65.
(Xirless, John, e. Aug. 12, '62, m. o. June 5, '65,
eorpl.
Curless, L. D., e. Aug. 12, '62, m. o. June 5, '6.').
Clupper, P. W., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 5,
'6.5, corpl.
Dodge, John, e. Aug. 12. '6.5, m. o. June 5, '65.
Douglass. J. W., e. Aug. 12, '62, trans. V. R. C.
Kdiiionds, B. F., e. Aug. 12,'62.
Faw.sett, Michael, e. Aug. 12,'62, died Apl.5'6;i.
Faw.sett, Levi, e. Aug. 12,'62, d. Jan. l.'i;:i, ills.
Holt, Solomon, e. Aug. 16,'62. ni. o. June5,'65.
Hays, Daniel, e. Aug. 16,'62. died Dec. 1,'62.
Hagan, J. B., e. Aug. 16, '62, died Jan 28,'6:!.
Hensley, J. W., e. Aug. 16,'62.
Jones, J. M., e. Aug. 16,62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Kelly, Wni., e. Aug. 16,'62, d Julv liS,'6:!.
Kelly, Josiah, e. Aug. 16,62, d. July 21), '68, dis.
King, D. M., e. Aug." 16, '62, d. Apr.' l,'6;i. dis.
Line, D. T., e. Aug. 16, '62.
Longfellow, D. G.,e. Aug. 16,'62.kld June 27,'64.
Lamperell, Chas.,e. Aug. 16, '62, m.o. June 5, '65.
Lafarie, Henrv, e. Aug. 16, '62, m.o. June 5, '65.
Latourett, H. A., e. Aug. 16,'62.
Levingston, Jno, e. Aug. 16, '62, m.o. June 5. '65.
Levingston, T. A., e.Aug. 16,'62,d.Oct.l,'62,dis.
MeCi-nib, A.,e. Aug. 16, '62, m.o. June 5, '65.
MeCay, John, e. Aug. 16, '62.
Meek," (i. W., e. Aug, 16,'62. d. June 15,'63, dis.
McKee, F. M., e. Aug 16,'62, m.o. June 5. '65.
:Monroe, Biraui, e. Aug. 1(),'62.
O'Danuel, Thos., e. Aug. 16. '62.
Prentice, Wm., e. Aug. 16. '62, m.o. .lune 5,'65.
Prentice, Berry, e. Aug. 16, '62, kid. at Ken. Mt.
Parr, J. N., c. Aug. 16, '62, m.o. June 5, '65.
Plunk, Marion, e. Aug. 16. '62, m.o. June 10,'65.
Parker, N. B., e Au6. 16.'62, m.o. June 5, '65.
Powell, Geo., e. Aug. 16,'62, trans, to V.R.C.
Reeves, Peter, e. Aug. 16,'62, missing at Kene-
saw Mt.
Heed. (i. W., e. Aug. 16,'62, m.o. June 5,'65.
Smith, L. C, e. Aug. 16,'62, d. .Vpril 1,'63, dis.
Snodgrass, J. H., e. Aug, 16, '62, kid atKenesaw.
Shargo, G. W., e. Aug. 16,'62. d. Oct. 1,'62, dis.
Stephens6n, J. N.,e. Aug. 16, '62, m.o. .Fune 5,'65.
Severns, Marion, e. Aug. 16, '62, kid. at Kene-
saw Mt.
Still, Solomon, e. Aug. 16,'62, trans. V-K.C.
Still, Sam'l, e. Au6. 16,'62, died Dec. 5, '62.
Still, Robt., e. Aug. 16,'62, d. April l,'6;i, di.s.
Shields, James, e. .A.ug. 16, '62, kid. at Kenesaw.
SncKlgrass, J. W. e. Aug. 16,'62, di'jd Oct. S,'68.
Seymour, Louis, e. Aug. 16, '62, trans, to Eug. C.
Shores, John, e. Aug. 16, '62, kid. at Kene.saw.
Smith, Wm., e. Aug. 16, '62, ni. o. June 5,'("i5,
sergt.
Thomas, Aaron, e. Aug. 16, '62, trans, to V.R.C.
Thomas, David, e. Aug. 16,'62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Tavlor, David, e. Aug. 16, '62, m.o. June 5, '65.
Taie, T. J., e. Aug. 16,'62.
Thompson, Jno., e. Aug. 16,'62, m.o. June 5,'(')5.
Workman, Geo., e. Aug. 16, '62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Wheeler, Thomas, e. Aug. 16,'62, d. Oct. :«). '62.
dis.
Wright, L. P., e. Aug. 16, '62, m. o. June 5, '65.,
sergt.
Woodruff, J. H., e. Aug. 16,'62.
COMPANY H.
Captains.
Nathaniel McClelland, e. Aug. 27, '02, res. Nov.
12,'6'2.
23
David Maxwell, e. July 31, '02, res. May 14, '03.
J. T. McNeil, e. July 31, '62, res. Aug. 29,'C)4.
I. A. Mardis, e. July31,'62, m. o. June .5,'65.
First Lieutenants.
Luke Elliott, e. Aug. 27,'62, res. Nov. 21,'62.
A. J. Horton, e. Aug. 6, '62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Second Lieutenants.
Wm. Cohren, e. Aug. 27,'62, res. Nov. 12,'62.
W. M. Shields, e. July 31, '62, res. Feb. 16,'63.
Sergeants.
S. B. Palmer, e. July 3, '62, m. o. June 5, '66.
Kli Shields, e. Aug. 6,'62, kid, June •27,'64.
Amos Kinza, e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Corjjorals.
J. T. Zinuuerman, e. Aug. 6,'62, m.o. June 17,'65.
G. H. Wetzel, e. July 3),'62,m.o. June5,'6.5.
.\nders(in Jennings, e. July 31, '62, m. o. June
7, '65, serg.
II. Shields, e. Julv 31, '62, m. o. June 5,'65, sergt.
Franklin Shellev, e. July 31,'62,d. Mar.9,'6.5, dis.
D. S. Shank, e. Aug. 6,'6'2. •
J. W. Swann, e. Julv 31, '62, m. o. June 5, '65.
E. J. Elliott, e. July 31. '62, kid. June 27, '64.
ifii.'iiciaiis.
II. H. Willson, e. Aug. 5, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
M. K. Dob.son, e. July 31, '62, m. o. June.5,'6.5.
Wagoner.
Benj. Bolen, e. July 31, '62, d. Jan. 2'.).'63, dis.
Priratai.
Barnes, G. W., e. Aug. 6,'tl2, d. Jan. 2',),'63, dis.
Branson, C. R., e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. .Tune 5, '65.
Bloomhcld, II., e. Aug. 6,'62, died Feb. 11, '63.
Barnes, J. A., e. A>ig. 6, '62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Cunninghitm, John, e. July 5,'62, died at Bow-
ling Green, Kv.
Crable, Joseph. e.July 31,'62, d. Feb. 3,'63, dis.
Cunningham. Wm., e. July 31, '62, died at Bow-
ling ( ireen. Ky.
Coope, Abraham, e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. June 5, '65,
sergt.
Collins, Wm., e. Aug. 6,'62, d. Dec. 20,'64, wds.
Duncan. Chas.,e. Aug. 15, '62, m. o. June 5, '65,
corpl.
Davis, Joseph, e. July 31, '62.
Dutton, Daniel, e. Julv 31, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Dial, Lewis, e. Aug. 6,'62, d. Feb. 20,'65.
Elgin, W. F., e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Engle, T.B.,e. /uly 31,'62, ni.o.June4,'65,corp'l.
Fi'uton, J. D., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 5,'6.5,
Freitley, W. H., e Aug. 6, '62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Iludnall, Wm., e. July 31, '62 m. o. June 5, '65.
Henderson, S. I)., e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5, '65,
sergt.
Horton, J. B., e. July 31,'62, d. June 19,'63,dis.
Horton, Marion, e. Aug. 6, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Hughes, C. A., Aug. 6, '62, died June 20,'64.
Ilughey, J T., e. Aug. 6,'62, trans. toV.R,C.
Heaton', Simon, e. Aug. 0,'62, kid. Nov. 2'.t,'64.
Horn, Jacob, e. Aug. 6.'62, trans, to V.R.C.
Hudnall, Wesley, e. Aug. 6, '62, m.o. June 5, '65.
Jameson, James, e. Julv 31, '()2, d. FeV). 3,'63,
dis.
Johnson, H. J. e. Aug. 5,'62, ni. o. June 17,'65.
Jellison, Benj., e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Kingery, J. F., e. July 31, '62, sick at m. o.
Lane. Richard, e. July 31,'<)2, sick at m. o.
Lovell, Henry, e. July 31, '62. d. Feb. 3,'63, dis.
Myers, Solomon, e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
MeClaren, W. H., e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5,
'65, sergt.
MeClaren, .(. W., e.July 31, '62, m. o. June5,'65.
Newberry, Geo., m. o. June 5,'65.
Osborn, Wm., e. Aug. 5, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Palmer, Joel, e. Julv 31, '62, d. .Ian. 10,'63, dis.
Powell, J. R., e. July 31, '62, m. o. Aug. 12,'65.
Parker, M. V., e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Plank, M. V., e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Rodgers, Michael, e. Julv 31, '62, m. o. June
5,'65.
372
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Sears, L. J., e. July 31, '62, June 5,'65.
Sears, Lemuel, e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Swisher, H. C, e. 3ulv31,'62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Shields, J. B., e. Aug. 6,'62, sicliat m. o.
Shields, Wm., e. Aug. 6, 62, m. o. June 5,'65,
corpl.
Shrier, F. M., e. July 31, '61.
Severus, Wm., e. Aug. 6, '62, m. o. June .5, '65.
Severns, Eli, e. Aug. 6, '63, d. Mar. 20. '65. dis.
Snodgrass, Robt.. e. Aug. 4,'62, m.o. June5,'65.
Salsburj', James, e. Aug. 4, '62, trans, to Eng. C.
Shaw, Geo. W.. e. Aug. 6. '62, died at Nashville.
Shields, B. F., e. July 31, '62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Shanon, Nathan, e. Aug. 6,'62, d. May. 9,'63,
dis.
Thompson, J. A., e. Aug. 6,'62, died of wnds.
July 7,'64.
Thompson, Samuel, e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. [June
5,'65, corpl.
Turner, C. C, e. Aug. 6, '62.
Thosio, John, e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. July 22,'65.
was pris.
Toler, J. T., e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. June5,'65.
Wheeler, Arden, e. Aug. 6, '62, m. o. June5,'65.
Worlev, Daniel, e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. June 5,'6.5.
Zellers, F., e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. June 17,'65, was
pris.
C03IPA>fY I.
Captain.
W. H. Marble, e. Aug. 27,'62, res. April 9,'63.
Second Lieutenant.
Hugh McHugh, e. Aug. 27,'62, res, Feb. 9,'63.
Sergeants.
A. A. Cameron, e. Aug. 27,"62. trans. Eng. C.
L. V. Tarter, e. Aug. 27,'62. d. July 31, '64.
John Rennau. e. Aug. 27,'62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Robt. MuUican, e. Aug. 27,'62, m.o. June 5,'65,
sergt.
Corporals.
Jeremiah Cockley, e. Aug. 27,'62, d. at Nash-
^•ille. Tenn.
J. W. Belless, e. Aug. 27,'62, m. o. une 5,'65.
William Landon, e. Aug. 27,'62, m. o. June
5, '65.
L. Collins, e. Aug. 27,'62. trans. Eng. C. sergt.
James Moslander, e. Aug. 27, '62, m. o. June 5,
'65, sergt.
Ezariah Thomas.
Chas. Mathews, e. Aug. 1,'C2. m. o. .June 5,'65.
Milo Butler, e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5,^65.
Musician.
Wm. MeCaustland, e. Aug. 1, '62, d. Feb. —,'63.
Wagoner.
Edmund Curless, e. Aug. 1,'62, pro. 1st Lieut.
Privates.
Amsden, Lincoln, e. Aug. 1,'62.
Belless, Wm., e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Cakley, John, e. Aug. 1,'62, died Jan. 18,'63.
Frazef, Thomas, e. Aug. 1,'62, died Jan. 1,'63.
Fatchcraft, Henry, e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June
5,'65.
Gilson, Sanford, e. Aug. 1,'62, d. Mar. —,'63.
Gray, Vison, e. Aug. 1,'62, d. alNash\ille.
Graham, W. A., e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5,'65,
corpl.
Horton, Isaac, e. Aug. 1, '62, d. Oct. — , 62.
Hughes, X. P., e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5,'65,
sergt.
Hughes, Wm., e. Aug. 1,'62, died Nov. —,'62.
Hall, Josiah, e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 19,'65,
pris.
Holmes, J. R., e. Aug. 1,'62, trans. V. R. C.
Keller, Sylvester, e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Lapole, John, e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5, '65.
Lovell, Wm., e. Aug. 1,'62.
Minnes, Wm., e. Aug. 1,'62, d. at Louis\llle,
Ky.
Markel, Solomon, e. Aug.1,'62, m. o. June5,'65,
corpl.
Moore, J. E., e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5,'65.
McCroskev, E., e. Aug. 1,'62, died Dec. —,'62.
Phillips, W. H., e. Aug. 1,'62, trans. V. R. C.
Richardson, Isaac, e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5,
'65, corpl.
Royes, T. J., e. Aug. 1,'62, d. Oct. —,'62.
Statts, T. J., e. Aug. 1,'62.
Sanders, Geo., e. Aug. 1,'62.
Smith, W. H., e. Aug. 1,'62.
Tyra, Geo., e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5,'65.
Trayes, John, e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5, '65,
corpl.
Trapp, Oliver, e. Aug. 1,'62, d. Feb. 9,'63.
Walker, Austin, e. Aug. 1,'62, kid. at Kenesaw
Mountain.
Wilkes, Lemuel, e. Aug. 1,'62, m. o. June 5,
'65, sergt.
Winchel, Albert, e. Aug. 1,61, d. Aug. 3,'63.
Markley, Wm., d. Oct. —,'62.
Menuef, John, e. Feb. 8,'64.
Moore, J. H., Jan. 5,'64, d. Mar. 13,'65.
Moore, Ellis, e. Jan. 5, '61, ab. at m.o. of regt.
Dewey, I. B., Co. D, 86th Inf. e. Aug. 11, '62, m.
o. June 6,'65.
89tli INFANTRY.
COMPANY A.
Coi-poral.
S. Alden, e. Aug. 5, '62.
Privates.
Buck, Jacob, e. July 31, '62.
Baughman, David, e. Aug. 1,'62, kid. May
27,'64.
Coleman, A., e. Aug. 5,'62, d. Mayl6,'63, dis.
Hebb, .Saml., c. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 19,'65,
corpl.
Kunkle, I. H., e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. Junel0,'65.
Rowley, Reuben, e. July 31, '62, d. Sept. 16,'63,
dis.
Sterling, Henrv, e. Aug. 7, "62, kid. Sept. 19,'63.
Thomas, D. M., e. Aug. 1,'62, died Mar. 12,'63.
Tavlor. Thomas, e. Aug. 11, "62, m. o. June
10, '65.
THE 96tli INFANTRY
Was organized at Rockford in August, '62, by
Col. T. E. Champion, and mustered in Sept. 6.
Oct. 8, it moved to Newport, Ky. ; on the 29th
moved to Lexington and Harrodsburg, where
it remained four weeks, and thence removed
to Danville, where it arrived Nov. 28. The
regiment was mustered out June 10, '65, at
Cam}i Harker, Tenn., and arrived at Chicago
June 14,'65, where it received final pay and
discharge.
t'03IPANY B.
Captains.
David Salisburj-, e. Sept. 6, '62, res. Feb. 17, '63.
A. B. Whitnev, e. Sept. 6,'62. res. Jan. 8,'64.
E. J.Gilmore, e. Aug. 9,'62, kid. June 25,'64.
G. H. Burnett, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 10,'65_
First Lieutenant.
A. A. Bangs, e. Sept. 5,'62, m. o. June 10,'65.
Sergeant.
O. Ferrand, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 8, '65.
Corporals.
J. D. Fulsom, e. Aug. 9,'62.
S. H. Lindsey, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. May 10, '65,
sergt.
Arthur Cook, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. Mav 10,'65, sgt.
Willard Whitney, e. Aug. 9,'62, m.o. May 10,'65.
Privates.
Burnett, Jerome, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. May 10,
'65, corpl.
HISTORY OF FUI.TOX COUMTY.
.173
Butler, Isaac, e. Aug. 9, '62, m. o. May 10,'6o.
Bangs, G. A., e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. May 10,'r.5.
Barron, Orvill, e. Aug. 9, '(52, iii. o. May 10, '(i5.
Brown, ,Tanies, e. Aug. 9, '62. died Jan. 2.^,'6:^.
Beck, J. A., e. Aug. 9, '02, m. o. June 10, '6.5.
Brogar, Henry, e. Aug. 9,'62, d. April 10, '63, dis.
Carl, 'VVm., e. Aug. 9,'G2, trans fo V.R.C.
Collins, Alfred, e. Aug. 9,'62, died Jan. 28,'6:i.
Cleveland, M. H., e. Aug. 9, '62, m. o. June 10,
'65, cori)l.
Cleveland, E. T., e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. May 13,'65.
Collins, LaFavette, e. Aug. 9, '62.
Cooper, (t. J., e. Aug. 9,'62, died Nov. 18,'63.
Dombiski, Henrv, e.Aug. 9,'62,m.o. June 10, '65.
De Voe, I. W., e." Aug. 9,'62, trans, to V.R.C.
Edwards, Alfred, e. Aug. 9,'62, trans, to V.R.C.
Fisher, Whitman. e.Aug.9,'62,d.Mar.l9,'63,dis.
Fuller, Wni., e. Aug.'9,'62, m. o. June 10,'65.
Gillmore, M.,e. Aug. 9, '62, d. Jan. 5, '65, dis.
Hendee, G. E., e. Aug. 9, '62, m. o. Mav 13, '65.
Hoagstraat, H., e. Aug. 9,'62, kid. May 14,'64.
Litwiler, James, e. Aug. 9, '62, kid. May 14,'(il.
O'Connell, James, e. Aug. 9,'62, died Aug. 24,(53.
Potter, Edwin, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 10, '65.
Rich, Esau, e. Aug. 9,'62, kid. Nov. 24, 63.
Washburn. John, e. Aug. 9, '62, kid. Dec. 16, '64.
Young, James, e. Aug. 9, '(52, d. June 16,'63, dis.
Fidler, John, Co. C, e. Aug. 15,'62, kid. Sept.
20, '63.
McCreadie, Wm., Co. C, e. Aug. 15. '62, died at
Andersonville pris.. June 4, '64.
Savage, Jerrv, Co. C,, e. Aug. 1,'(52, trans, to V.
R. C.
COMPANY I>.
Carpenter, G. W., e. Aug. 6,'62, m, o. June 10,
65.
Hankins, C. S., e. Aug. 11, '62, ni. o. June 10,'65.
Peppard, Chas., e. Aiig. 12, '62, m. o. June 10,
'65, sergt.
Ricks, Edw., e. Aug. 7,'62, m. o. June 10,'65,
corpl.
Sells, W. D., e. Aug. 2,'62, died July 30,'63.
Thaver, Eli, e. Aug. 13, '62, missing in action.
Drurv, W. E., Co. G., e. Aug. 11, '62, d. Mav 22,
'(53, dis.
(ray, Henrv, Co. G., e. Aug. 7, '(54, m. o. Juuf
16,'65, corpl.
Hill, James, Co. F., 102d, e. Jan. 4. '64.
Olson, Peter,'Co. I., 102d, c. Dec. 15,'63.
THE 103d INFAKTRY
Was ograiuz<>d in August, '62, and mustered in
Oct. 2.
The 103d was exclusively a Fulton county
regiment, having been raised entirely in this
county. The regiment received orders Oct. 30
to move to Cairo, and thence to Columbus,
Jackson and Bolivar, -where it was assigned,
Nov. 2, to First Brigade, Fourth Division,
Thirteenth Corps. The regiment was engaged
in sundry marches and reconnoissances, from
Jackson and Bolivar, during November and
December, 1862. On the 9th of November it
engaged the enemy near Coldwater, Miss.,
driving him, killing 15 and capturing 70 pris-
oners. Oft the 28th of November went on a
campaign to Tallahatchie river, where they
met a strong force of the enemy and drove
them from their position. On the .30th of
December went into winter quarters at Jack-
son.
The 103d took part in the battle of Resaca,
Ga., where they sustained quite a heavy loss,
and among the brave men who fell there was
the gallant Col. Willard A. Dickerman, who
gave up his life May 28, '64.
The regiment was mustered out June 21, '65
at Louisville, Ky.. and proceeded to Chicago,
where, June 24, '65, it received final payment
and discharge.
Colonels.
Amos C. Babcock, e. Oct. 2,'(52, res. Oct. 18,'62.
W. A. Dickerman, e. Oct. Is,'(i2, kid. at Resaca,
Ga., Mav 28, '64.
G. W. Wright, e. Oct. 18,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Lieutenant Colonels.
Asias Willison, e. Oct. 18,'62, res. Jan. 8,'65.
Charles Willis, e. Oct. 2,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Adjutants.
S. S. Tipton, e. Aug. 2, '62, res. June 19, '63.
A. E. Waystafr, e. Aug. 6, '62.
F. B. Lermond, e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Quaiiermaster.
William Miller, e. Oct. 18,'62. m. o. May ]5,'65.
II. S. Ingersoll, e. Aug. 11, '(52, m. o. June 21, '65,
Surgeon.
Richard Morris, e. Nov. 15, '62, ni. o. June 21, "(55.
First Assistq,nt Surgeon.
S. S. Buck, e. Oct. 2,'62,m. o. June 21, '(55.
Second A.msiant Surgeon.
J. W. VanBrunt. e. Oct. 3,'(52, m. o. June 21, '65.
Chajdain.
W. S. Peterson, e. Oct. 2,'62.
Sergeant Major.
S. R. Quigley, e. Aug. 11, '62, ni. o. June 21, '65.
Quartermaster Sergeant.
Wilson Fisher, e. Aug. 11, '(52, m. o. June 21, '65.
Commissary Sergeant.
George Stipp, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Hospital Steward.
H. J. Miffin, e. Aug. 22, '62, d. June 8, '63.
John Hughes, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Principal Musicians.
C. E. Payne, e. Aug. 14,'62, died July, 20,'63.
H. E. Schaefer, e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. .rune21,'65.
E. A. ParAin, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
COMPANY A.
Captain.
W. W. Bishop, e. Oct. 18,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
First Lieutenant.
I. W. Worley, e. Oct. 18,'62, res. Jan. 15,'65.
Second Lieutenant.
Howard Willison, e. Oct. 18,'62.
First Sergeant.
Wm. M. Standard, e. Aug. 9,'62, pro. 1st Lieut.
Sergeants.
John Milburu, e. Aug. 9.'62, kid. Nov. 25,'63.
Alonzo M. Cole, e. Aug. 14, '62, ab. at m. o. of
regt.
Sidney R. Quigley, e. Aug.11,'62, pro. serg. maj.
Henry C. Black, e. Aug. 7, '62, d. Mar. 17,'63,dis.
Corporals.
John Thompson, e. Aug. 9,'62, kid. Nov. 2.5,'63.
Robt. B. Evans, jr., e. Aug. 7,'62, m. o. June 29,
'65, 1st Sergt.
John A. Chambers, e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June
21, '65, Sergt.
W. C. Staten, e. Aug. 3,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
C. W. Fluke, e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Perry Morauville, e. Aug. 11, '62, died Oct. 30, '63.
Andrew Barrett, e. Aug. 8,'62, d. Nov. 5,'63,dis.
Alexander Morauville, e. Aug. 9, '62, m. o.
June, '21, '65.
a74
HISTORY OF FUI/roX COUNTY,
Musicians.
<;. R. Jordan, e. Aug. 14,'62, d. Mar. 29,'(;a, dis.
T. J. Piersol, e. Aug. 22,'6J, m. o. Mar. 10,'r,3.
Wagoner.
William Weaver, e. Aug. 22, '62.
Privntpji.
Aruett, J. N., e. Aug. 11,'&2, m. o. .luue 21. 'H."!.
Anderson, John A., e. Aug. 22,'G2, m. o. June
21, '65, corpl.
Alshurv, Levi, e. Aug. 22,'62. m. o. June 29.'Go.
Barnhill, Wm. B., e. Aug. 8,'62, d. June 26,'6:^,
for pro.
Beezlev, Paul, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 21, Hw.
Beezlev, John M., e. Aug. 9,"62, died Sep. 10, '63.
Bechelshymer, Hezekiah, e. Aug. 9,'62, died
Aug. 25, '63; wads.
Bird, William, e. Aug. 9,'62, ni. o. June 21,'65,
.sergt.
Bramble, George F., e. Aug. 9, '62. ni. (i. May
16, '65.
Berrv, John, e. Aug. 2, '62.
Berry, Elliott, e. Aug. 4,'62.
Bishop, Thomas S., e. Aug 22,'62, kid Nov.
25, '63.
Cockrell, Nathan, c. Aug. 9,'62, died Aug.
23,'63.
Clifford, Kelson, e. Aug. 11, '62, trans, tol. C.
Covert, Robert, e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Cozan, Joseph, e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Chambers, J. B., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. .lune
21, '6.5.
Chamber, (Jeoi^e W.,e. Aug. 21, '62, ni. o. .Tune
21, "65.
Clark, Isiuic B., e. Aug. 13,'62, trans, to V. R.C.
Calhoun, Andrew, e. Aug. 13,'62, died Feb. 9.
'64.
Childers, James A., e. Aug. 14,'62, died Jan.
29,63.
Dougla.ss, John, c. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. .Iune21,'6,).
Day, Nathan L.. e. Aug. ]7.'62.
Davis, George J., e. Aug. 16, '62.
Da\is, Thornton, e. Aug. 21, '62, ni, ". June
21, '65.
Evans, Edward F., e. Aug. 7,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Ellis, James A., e. Aug. S,'62, died Jan.8,'63.
Ellis, Isaac, e. Aug. 22,'62, d. Mar. 17,'(i3. dis.
Fitzgerald, William, e. Aug. 14, '62.
(Juthrie, William, e. .\ug. 22, '62, ni. n. .Time
21, '65, corpl.
(Justine, Samuel H., e. Aug. 22, '62, m. o. June
21,'fi5.
Hill, William, e. Aug. 12,'62, died Mar. 23,'6;!.
Houston, O. P., e. Aug. 9,'(i2.
Harrison, John e. Aug.12,'62.
Horn, Isaac, e. Aug. 1, '62, kid. Nov. 25,"6;;.
Horn, William, Jr., e. .\ug. 2(1, '62, died June
25,'(«.
Horn, Jonathan, c. Aug. 22, '62, d. Jan. 27, '65,
sergt,, dis.
Horn, Erasmus, e. Aug. •22,'(i2, died .'^ept, 9.'63.
Hunter, William, e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. June
•22, '(i5.
Hedge, Eder, e. Aug. 21, '62. died Mar. :',i),'6;!.
Hedge, Stephen B., e. Aug. •22,'62, m. (i. June
21, "()5, corpl.
.lenning, Nathan L.. e. Aug. 14, '(Vi, m. o. June
9,'6.5.
Kruzan, Findlcy, c. Aug. 20,'62, d. Mar. 29,'(i5.
Livingston, Johii, e. Aug. >>,'62, m. o. June 21.
'65, sergt.
Livingston, J., e. Aug. 29, '(>2, m. o. June 21, '(w.
Livingston, William, e, Aug, 21,'62, kid, Aug.
1,5, '64,
Lenhart, Isaiah, e. Aug. 16,'62, m.o. June21,'65.
McCumber. Anson, e. Aug. 7,'62, d. 25,'64, dis.
McCJhee, I)a\-id, e. Aug. 7,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Messplay, .lames, e. Aug. 9, '62, m.o. Juno 21, '65.
Osborn, (ieorge F., e. .Vug. 5, '62. m. o. June
21, '65.
Reeves, David H., e. Aug. 3,'62, died Dec. 31.
'63, wnds.
Smith, Abram, e. Aug. 8, '62, kid .lune 27, '6.1.
Smith, William C. e. Aug. m,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Summers, John W., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June
21, '65, sergt.
Toolev, Jo.siah. e. Aug. 13,'62, died Feb. 3,'63.
Toolev, Joshua, e. Aug. 7,'62, tran.s. to 40th 111.
Iiif.
Voris, Abraham, c. Aug. 13, '62, died July 13,'63.
Wells, Greenberrv D., e. Aug. .5,'62, m. o. June
■21, '6.5.
Wells, James H., e. Aug. 5. '62.
Wright, William M. e. Aug. 14, •(;2.
Willson, Howard, e. Aug. 14, '62, pro. 2d Lieut.
Walker. John, e. Aug. 2(.t,'62.
Stone, Archibald, e. Aug. 22, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Call, George B., e. Mar, 21, '64, kid. July 28,'64.
Coaklev, (ieorge W., e' Nov. 8, '63. trans, to 40tli
111." Inf.
Hill, Robert W,, e. Mar. 9,'C>4, trans, to 40th Inf.
Iknrv, Levi E.
Jones", Thomas S., e. Mar. 21. '64. kid. June
•27, '(VI.
Livingston, Isaac, e. Aug. 20, '62, d. Jan. 8,'.55.
dis..
Moranville, Charles L.. e. Mar. 21, '64. kid Aug.
19,'64.
Shaw. Amaziah. e. Mar, 21, '64, trans, to 40tli
111. Inf.
Tipton. Samuel S., pro. Adjutant.
Wartield, William, e. Mar. '25, '64, kid. June
•27, '(Vl.
COMPANY J$.
Captui))--'.
(). I). Cariieuter. e. Oct. 2, '62, res. April 7,'63.
William Walsh, e. Oct. 2,'62, died Nov. •25,'(53.
.\ndrew Smith, e. Aug. '22,'62, m.o. June ■21, '(i5.
First Lieutenant".
J. S. (Jardner, e. Oct. 2,'62, res. Feb. 5, '63.
J. M. Swartz, e. Aug. 14,'62, ra. o. Juue '21, '65.
Srrond Lieutenant.
S. B. Boer, e. Aug. 14,'(;2. res. Aug. ]0,'63.
Firt't Sergrnnl.
Simon I!. Beer. c. .\ug. 14,'6'2, pro. 2d Lieut.
Scrgennt?.
James E. (J. Hibbard, o. .\ug. 14, '62, m. o. .June
21, '65.
Andrew Smith, e. Aug. 22,'62, i>ro. 1st Lieut.
Elijah Lanman, o. Aug. 22,'tV2, kid. June •28,'64.
.Vllen W. Smith, e. .-Vug. •26,'(i2, died Uar. 19,'6:;.
Corporals.
I Joseph Prosser, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. May 2,'6o.
I William HummoU, e. Aug. 14,'62, sergt., abs.at
' ni. o. regt.
Jacob W. Kist, e. Aug. 14, '(i2.
Christ B. Fisher, e. Aug. 14. '62, m. o. June 21.
"65, 1st sergt.
Edward Hancock, e. -Vug. 2(i,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
James A Dailey, e. Aug. 11. '62. ni. u. June 21.
'65, sergt.
.lohnson Brunner, e, Aug. 14, "62, trans, to I. ('.
Musicians.
Henry E. .Schaefor. e. Aug. 14,'62, app. jirin.
musician.
Elim A. Parvin, c. Aug. 14,'62, app. prin. nni.
Wagoner.
Alfred P. Potter, e.Aug. 22,'62, m.o. May •29,'65.
Privates.
Arringdle, Francis, e. Atig. •20,'62, m. o. June
•21,'(i.5.
Alms, Henry, e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Alms, Andrew, c. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. May 19,'C5.
Anno. Henrv. e. Aug. 14,'62, died Aug. '27,'63.
iiis'i'oi;^' OF Kn/rox corxTV.
375
KiikiT, .l;niR's I).. V. AiiK. I l.'ili^.
Burrow, .Fanu's, v. Au.s,'. M.'iJ'J, iii.o. .luiiu 21,'Im.
liinvors, .Jos'.'jih. o. Aii.ir. Jl.'(ii>, kid May 14.'(>4.
Uovvers, Daiiii^l, o. Aii^r. M.'iVJ, diod Sept. IT.'ii.!.
Cariieiitt'r, .Iiilni H., c. Ant;. H.'t'>-. in. o. .litiu'
■JI.'Cm.
( 'iniiiiii.uliinn, .Miriin I!., v. \\i\z. I l.'iVJ. in. o.
.(unr ■-'l.'Ci.'i.
t 'lino. l,ouis, \\iix. 1 l.'iij.
Clark, Ilc-nry. t'. Aii;_'. I l.'^.J. kM. Nov. L'.'i.'Ci:',.
D.uiaud, Ik'iij.iiiiiti M.. f. An^-. II, 'i;.'. ilii'il
,-:c])r. 2-2.'M.
l).ulv,.lolm R., I.', .\ilfi-. 1-1, '61;, 111. o. .luiic 15, 'I'm.
Davis, Klirnczor, c. Aur. 21,'i',-j, d. Mar. 10,'Gl.
Klliott, Cyrus, v. .\uk. 14,'i'rJ. i 1. o. .Tunc •J1,"Im.
Fisiier, .lolin \V.. c. .\uk. li.'i'J. 111. o. Mayi'J,
'05, coriil.
Fisher, .losluia.!.. v. Ann. IJ.'il'i, 1st srr.ut. trans.
to 1. C.
Flower, William H.. Auu. 1 l.'d'J. 111. u. .lunc
24, '(').">.
Fry, Isaac, c. Aug. 14,'ii2. diod .Vug. (i,'i>4.
(Uadmaii, Thomas, c. Aug. 14.'i)2, abs. at ni. o.
of rcRt.
(Jlass, Uriah .1.. c .Vng. ■Ji)."r)2. coriil. abs. at +11.
(I. of regt.
Llall, ,Joshua, e. .Vug. 14,'ii2, trans, to 4(itli Inf.
HunimcU, Saiiiufl, v. Aug. 14, 'ill, 111. o. .Iniic
21,'t)5, corjil.
Hancy, Henry, e. Aug. ]l,'iJ2, 111. o. .Inne 21,'»'i5,
(•orpl.
Ileartlcy, William L., Aug. 14, '(12, d. May 7,'ti;!.
Henry, .lohn, e. Aug. 22, '112, died Dec. ^(l.'lio.
lleariley, .lohn, e. Aug. 14,'fi2, m. o. .luiie
•25,'t;5.
Ilitcs, Tllouiiis, e. .Vug. 21. '112, 111. o. .1 line 21 ,'(J5.
.lackson, Ira, e, Aug. 14, '(12, 111. o.luly 14. '(15.
Kiugswortli, .lohn, c. Aug. 14, '112, d. Mar. i(,'(l:i.
ICnhn. Conrad, e. .Vug. 2(J,'(12,m. o. .Tune 21, '(15.
Kc|)lcr, .Samuel, e, .Vug. 14,'tJ2, died Aug. '24. '(i:!.
, Marklcy, .T. F., e. Aug. 14,'(i2, died .Fan. 12,'0:!.
Markle'y, Marion, c. Aug. 14, '(12, died March
(l,'(i:!.
McClcrg, .lohn K., c. Aug. 14, '(12.
>rc('lerg, William, c. Aug. 14, '112, ni. o. .luiio 24,
'(15, was pris.
.Moutg(.)niery, George, e. .Vug. 14, '(12, abs. at m.
o. of regt.
.Montgoincrv. .Vdani. e. Aug. 14, '112, 111. o. .lunc
21, '(15.
Montgomerv, Richard, e. Aug. '22, '(12. klil. Nov.
■2.5, •(;:',.
Mantonga, Amos., c. .Vug. '20, '(12, died Aiml
10, '(i;!.
Mantonga, Sylvester, e. Aug. 1;;, '(12, kid. .lunc
•.27,'(i4.
Nfartiu, Jjcwis, c. Aug. 14, '(i2, 111. o. .lunc 21, '(15.
Norville, Elisha, e. Aug. 14, '(12, m. o. ,Iune21,
'(15, sergt.
Overman, Oscar, e. Aug. 14, '(12, in. o. .Tunc 21,
()5, cori>l.
Parker, Allen S., e. Aug. 14.'(i2, died Oct. 5,'();!.
Palmer, Archibald D., e. Aug. 14, '(12, kid. Nov.
■22, '(■>4.
Pratt, Thomas, c. Aug. 14, '(C
Pepitt, William, e. Aug. 14. '152, kid. Nov. •25,'t;;!.
Roberts, ,To.seph T., e. Aug. 14,'t32, d. ^far.KI.'Cvl.
Heed, William ^M., e. Aug. '22, '(12, m. o. .lunc '21,
'(15, sergt .
Swartz, Christopher M.. c. .Vug. 14, '(12, m. o.
.Tune 21. '115.
Swartz, Henry, e. Aug. 14, '(12, m. o. .rune 21, '(15.
Stobaugh, .Tames, e. Aug. 14, '02.
SlKjcmaker, .Vbraham, e. Aug. 14, '(12, m. o.
.Tune 21, '(15.
Seward, .Tasi)er.I., e. Aug. 14, '(12.
Smith, .loseph .T., e. Aug. 22, '(12, died Jan. is,
'r-,3.
Spcer, .lohn (i., e. Aug. 22, '(52, died .Tulv 10, '(U.
See, Daniel, e. Aug. 2(),'62, d. April l(l,'(i;l.
Terry, William L.. c. Aug. 14. '(■)2, trans, to J. C.
Volmar, Daniel, e. .Vug. i:i,'Ci2, m. o. .fuue 21,
'(15.
Whiting, Joint A., e. Aug. 14,'G'2, died Feb. '2,
"(13.
Whiting, Salathiel, e. Aug. 14,'62, died Nov. fi,
•(33.
V\'hceler, Joseph H., e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. June
21. '115, corpl.
Zeil>v, William, e. Aug. 22,'62, kid. Nov. 25,'6:!.
Vniio, James W.,e, Dec. 15,'6o, kid. June 'iT.'Rl.
Donney, Frank E.
.lamicsou, Ezra, died June I'J.'Go,
Morris, P. W., e. Fel). 10,'(54, trans, to Kith Inf.
Keed, William.
Swartz, .lohn W., jiro. 1st Eieiit.
COMPANY C.
Captain.
F. M. Taylor, c. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. .luue 21, '(j5.
First Lieutenants.
II. 1,. Xicolet, e. Oct. 2,'(i2, res. Mar. (;,'(!:;.
William Wilkinson, e. Aug. 11, '02, res. Julv 11,
,04.
(i. S. Chapin. c. Aug. 15, "02, m. o. June 21, '05.
Strond Lieutenant.
.1. S. Smith, c. Oct. 2,'(i2, re.s. Apl. :;,'(35.
First Sergeant.
.loliii H. Harris, e. Aug. 12,'(32, d. Feb. 0,'(15.
Sergeants.
William Wilkinson, e. Aug. 11, '(32, pro. 1st
Lieut.
Joshua M. Gibbs. e. Aug. 0, '02, d. May 9, '05.
Alexander E. Wagstaff, e. Aug. 0,'(12, trans, to
Co. G.
Enos Kelsey, e. .Vug, 11, '02, m. o. June 21, '05,
1 st sergt.
Corpurals.
J(jseiih I'arnham, e. .Vug. 5,'02, m. o. May .'W,
'05.
Henry S. liigersoll, e. Aug. 11, '02, pro. Q. .sergt.
(ieorge Stipj). e. Aug. 9, '02. pro. Com. sergt.
Francis M. Hunt, e. Aug. 11, '(32, m. o. June 21,
'(35.
Gorham S. Chapin, e. Aug. 15, '02, d. June 8, '65,
for pro.
Kns.sell J Tanner, c. Aug. 15, '02, sergt. died
Aug. '24, (34, wnds.
Samuel Spillman. e. Aug. (1,'('>2.
Mu.'^ieians.
Washington F. Randolph, e. Aug. 14, '02, d.
April S,'64. a
Robt. E. Snyder, e. Aug. 22,'(32, d. March IT.'On,
dis.
Private-^.
Alibott, Joel, e. Aug. 13,'e2, died June l.S,'(3S.
Andrews, Jf)siah, e. Aug. 12,'(i2. 111. o. June 21,
•(35.
Armstrong, (iardner M., e. Aug. 7, '02, m. o.
.lunc 21, '(15, .sergt.
Ball, Edwin N., e^ Aug. 9,'fi2, trans, to I. C.
.June '28, '63.
Bailey, George L., e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. .luue 21,
'(35, corpl.
Bass, George M., e. Aug. 13,'02, m. o. June 21,
'(35, sergt.
Bavlor, Theo<lore, c. .\^ug. 13, '(32, kid. .luno '27,
' '04.
Beu.sou, William, e. .Vug. 14, "(32, m. o. June 21,
'65.
Beu.sou, (ieorge. c. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65.
Bevans, Robert E., e. Atig. 12,'(32, m. o. June
21, '65.
Blake, Samuel F., e. Aug. 14, '62, died Feb. 4,
'63.
Brown, Benjamin, e. Aug. 11, '62, d. March 29,
'03, dis.
Bee.sou, Turner, e. Aug. 15,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Cannon, Thomas, e. Aug. 14,'62, d. Oct. 19,'63,
dis.
376
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
Chapin, Ivory, e. Aug. 15, '62. m. o. June 21, '65.
Cone, Joseph C, e. Aug. 15,'62, m. o. June 9,'65.
Carrico, Harrison, e. Aug. 14,'62, trans, to I. C.
Cook, James, e. Aug. 12,"62. m. o. June 21. '65.
Couch, John S., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65.
Dean, Stephen E.", e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June 21,
'6.5.
Evans, John, e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 21, '6-5.
Evans, George VV., e. Aug. 13, '62, died July 5,
'64.
Evans, David W.. e. Aug. 11, '62, abs. at m. o.
of regt.
Evans, Philip F., e. Aug. 13,'62, abs. at m. o. of
regt.
Ellis. Isaac N., e. Aug. 6,'62, abs. at m. o. of
regt.
Griffen, Da\dd S.. e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 21,
'6.5.
Godlev, William, e. Aug. 13,"62, m. o. June 21,
'6.3.
Gardiner. Benjamin C, e. Aug. 12,'62, died
Oct. 4, '63.
Oreinwill, Robert, e. Aug. 12,'62,'died Aug.
31, '63.
George, Samuel, e. Aug. 15, '62, m. o. June
21. '65.
Gamer, Ferdinand, e. Aug. 14. '62, m. o. June
21, '6.5.
Giddings, William F., e. Aug. 11, '62, died Oct-
10, '6.3.
Greenslit, X. A., e. Aug. 8,62, died June •28,'frl,
wnds.
Hackett, George M., e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June
21, '6.5.
Hackett, Clavton S., e. Aug. 11. '62, m. o. June
21, -6.5.
Horton, George W., e. Aug. 11,"62, m. o. June
21. '65, corpl.
Hart. George, e. Aug. 13,'62, died July 6,'63,
wnds.
Huckabv, John H.. e. Aug. 6, '62, died April
Herr, Sheaflf L., e. A»ig. 11, '62, m. o. June
21, '6-5.
Lee, Joseph F.. e. Aug. 11. '62. died Aug. 14,'63.
Lee. William R., e. Aug. 11, '62, died June
10,'63.
Lewis, Henry N., e. Aug. 11, '62, abs. at m. o.
of regt.
Lee, Jo.seph. e. Aug. 12,'62, died June 10,'63.
Louis, Elijah, e. Aug. 14,'62, died Feb. 4,'&4.
Little. Robert F., e. Aug. li,'62. m. o. June
21, '6.5.
• Lawrence. Amos B., e. Aug. 11, '62, d. June
21, '6.5.
Moore, William W., e. Aug. 16, '62, m. o. June
21, '65, corpl.
Marshall. Robert R., e. Aug. 11, '62, d. June 27.
'64, dis.
McKissick, John, e. Aug. 23, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
McGraw, John, e. Aug. 12,'62.
Marvel, Robert, e. Aug. 12,'62. d. Jan. 19,"63,
dis.
Riley, Henry, e. Aug. 11,'62, d. May 30,"63, dis.
Roatson, Joseph, e. Aug. 11, '62, trans, to 1. C.
Stockdale, Albert, e. Aug. 15,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Stewart, Richard S., e. Aug. 12, '62, died Sept.
8. '63.
Sly. Wm. H., e. Aug. 11, '62, trans, to V. R. C.
Smith, William A., e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June
21, '65, sergt.
Stone, Jesse, e. Aug. 15,"62, m. o. June 21. '65.
Sebree, St. Clair S., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June
21,'65.
Sandford, Charles W., e. Aug, 15, '62, died Oct.
1,'64.
Taylor, Francis M., e. Aug. 22,'62, pro. 1st sergt.,
then capt.
Thorpe, Burton H., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
20, '63.
Vandersloot, Albert L., e. Aug. 11, '62, d. Aug.
8, '63.
Veeman, Charles A., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June
21. '65, corpl.
Werden, Jacob, e. Aug. 7, '62.
Welch, Hosea W., e. Aug. 11,'62, d. May 4,'63,
dLs.
Wilkinson, George J., e. Aug. 11, '62, pro. sei-gt.
maj.
Westerfield, Cary A., e. Aug. 20,'62, trans, to
I. C.
Zuck, Daniel, e. Aug. 11,'62, m. o. June 22,'65,
corpl.
Zuck. William, e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 21, "6.5.
Adams. William J., e. Jan. 26.'65. m. o. June
5, '65.
Chapin, Ord. e. Jan. 26,'65, trans, to 40th Inf.
Coroner, Thomas J., e. Jan. 26, '65, trans, to
40th Inf.
Dean, William F., m. o. June 21,'65, corpl.
Ellis, Newton, m. o. May 30,'65.
Hetherington. Jacob, e." April 29, "64, trans, to
40th Inf.
Mendenhall, Charles C, e. Jan. 26, '6.5. trans, to
40th Inf.
McLain, John, e. Jan. 10,'6.5, trans, to 40th Inf.
Ralston, William D., e. Jan. 26,'65, trans, to
40th Inf.
Ralston, Jamas C, e. Jan. 26,'65, trans, to 40th
Inf.
Sanders. General I^e, d. Jan. 8, '65.
Thomas, James B., e. Nov. 10, '63. died Aug. 5,
'W. wnds.
^^'hitaker, John C, e. Jan. 26,'65, trans, to 40th
Inf.
WalUng, Eli, kid. Oct. 15, '64.
COIPAXY D.
Captains.
3. S. WyckofF, e. Oct. 2.'62, res. Apl. 20.'64.
M. V. D. Voorhees, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21. '6.5.
First Lieutenants.
B. F. WvckoflF, e. Oct. 2.'62, res. ApL 7.'6.3.
I.<aac McBean, e. Oct. 2.'62, res. June 22.'63.
L. P. Blair, e. Aug. 13,62, kid. Julv 22,'64.
R. L. Neefus, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21,'65.
• First Sergeant.
Matthew V. D. Voorhees, e. Aug. 13, '62, pro. 2d
Lieut.
Sergeants.
Archibald McCrea, e. Aug. 13,'6'2, died Aug.
6, '64.
John Hughes, e. Aug. 13,'62, pro. Hospital
Steward.
. Lawrence P. Blair, e. Aug. 13,'62, pro. 1st
Lieut.
Allen D. Rose, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Corporals.
Charles B. Edmonson, e. Aug. 13,'62, sergt.
trans, to V. R, C.
Cornelius W. Pratt, e. Aug. 13, '62, died Feb. 1,
'63.
Ralph L. Neefus, e. Aug. 13,'62, pro. 1st Lieut.
Robert D. Gigh, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, sergt.
Peter D. Ditto, e. Aug. 13.'62, died Feb. 18,'6.3.
Henrv A. Snvder, e. Aug. 13,'62, died Deo.
31, '6?.
John W. Bower, e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, sergt.
Mti.?icia7is.
George M. Woodley, e. Sept. —,'62, d. April 16,
'63, dis.
Wm. W. Warner, e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Jan. 18,'65,
dis.
Wagoner.
Joseph L. Cyphers, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21,'66.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
377
Privates.
Alpaugh, Chas., e. Aug. 13,'62, died Sep. 16,'63.
Alwood, George W., e. Aug. 13,'62, died Aug.
11, '63.
Anderson, Lewis, e. Aug. 14,'62, kid. Nov.
22, '64.
Ashearn, Robert C, e. Aug. 13, '62, sergt., ab.
m. o. regt.
Beam, George, e. Aug. 13,'62, died Aug. 20,'63,
wnds.
Beaver, Martin L., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Blakeslee, G. M., e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Botkin, Marcellus, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Botkin, EInathan, e. Aug. 13,'62, died Oct. 8,'64.
Botkin, Asa J., e. Aug. 22,'62, trans, to V. R. C.
Buck, Sidney S., e, Aug. 13, '62, pro. 1st as. sur.
Burson, George, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June21,'65.
Brown, Simon V., e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Sept. 6,'63,
dis.
Bye, George J., e. Oct. 13,'62, died Sept. 3,'64.
Corev, Steplien A., e. Aug. 13, '62, m. b. June
21, '65. "
Cyphers, J. W., e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Gammon, Theodore, e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Aug. 23,
'63, corpl.
Dilts, Herman H., e. Aug. 13,'62, corpl., died
Aug. 3, '63.
Dilts, Charles J., e. Aug. 13,'62, died July 20,'63.
Dilts, James, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June, 21, '65,
corpl.
Ditmars, Richard L., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Dyckman, Charles, e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Sept. 30,
'64, corpl; wnds.
Dailey, George, e. Aug. 13,'62, trans to V. R. C.
Diltz, Jacob, e. Sept. — ,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Foster, Richard, e. Aug. 13, '62, corpl., trans, to
V. R. C.
Foster, Humphrey, e. Aug. 13,'62, d. May 4,'63,
dis.
Gick, Henrv, e. Aug. 13,'63, d. April 16,'63, dis.
Goodell, Hiram, e. Aug. 13,'62, died Dec. 18,'63.
Gronendyke, Wm., e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Sept. 6,'63,
dis.
Hagaman, Abram W., e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Oct. 28,
'63, dis.
Hagaman, Garrett V., e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o.
June 21, '65.
Hagaman, John T., e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Dec. 28,
'63, dis.
Hall, Edward E., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Hall, Peter, e. Aug. 21, '62, died Aug. 5,'64.
Hall, William, e. Aug. 13, '62, kid. iMay 11, '65.
Hillpot, Hugh F., e. Aug. 13, '62, trans. V. R. C.
Hutt; Christopher, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. July
1.'65.
Huff, Lewis D., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Johnston, Jacob, e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June
21, '6.5.
Johnston, Wm. C, e. Aug. 13,'62, died Aug.
30,'64,
Kellogg, S. H., e. Aug. 13, '62, kid. Nov. 22, '64.
Little, James, e. Aug. 13, '62, d. Sept. 6, '63, dis.
Merriara, Syms A., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65, corpl.
Moore, Simon, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21,'65.
Montgomery. William, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o.
June 21, '65, corpl.
Moor, George J., e. Aug. 13,'62, died Sep. 15,'64.
Moor, Caleb, e. Aug. 13,'62, corpl., died Nov.
25, '64, wnds.
Polhemus, John, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, 1st sergt.
Razee, James R., e. Aug. 13. '62.
Reihm, Philip, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. May 18,'65.
Roch, Philip, e, Aug. 13,'62. m. o. June 21, '65.
Snodgrass, Robert, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Stiue, William R., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. July
1,'65.
Stine, Jacob P., e. Aug. 13,'62, m.o. June 21, '65,
corpl.
Swiney, Gersham, e. Aug. 13,'62, died April
12, '64.
Swegle, John W., e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June
21, '65, corpl.
Taylor, George W., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Vail, Jasper, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Vanarsdale, Peter V. D., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o.
June 21, '65.
Voorhees, Peter, e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Voorhees, Richard D., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o.
June 21, '65.
Walsh, Daniel, e. Aug. 13,'62, died Feb. 16,'63.
Winters, James, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Wyckoff, John G., Aug. 13,'62, d. Mar. 28,'62,
dis.
Roberts, Paxon, e. Sept. 6,'62, d. Sep. 6,'63, dis.
Blakeslee, Charles H., e. Nov. 13,'63, d. Feb. 24,
'65, wnds.
Moorehead, William, dism'd Mayl5,'63.
COMPANY E.
Captain.
F. C. Post, e. Oct. 2,'62.
First Lieutenant.
C. H. Suydam, e. Oct. 2,'62.
First Sergeant.
Benjamin F. Wood, e. Aug. 4, '62, died July
9, '63.
Sergeants.
Christopher C. Bowman, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o.
June 20,'65.
Douglass M. McCann, e. Aug. 4, '62, on duty at
m. o. of regt.
Wfsley S. Low, e. Aug. 4,'62, kid. Nov. 25,'63.
Aljraham DeClerk, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Corporals.
Charles W. Thompson, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o.
June 21, '65.
W. H. Jackson, e. Aug. 4,'6e, m. o. June 12,
'65, sergt.
Wm. Shaw, e. Aug. 4,'62, died Aug. 20,'63.
Jones B. Fletcher, e. Aug. 4, '62, kid. Nov.
25,'63.
Joseph T. Crawford, e. Aug. 4, '62, ab. at m. o.
uf regt.
J. A. Van Meddleworth, e. Aug. 4, '62, ab. at
m. o. of regt.
Lemuel Shooks, e. Aug. 4,'62, detached at m.
o. of regt.
Henry F. Castle, e. Aug. 4,'62, died June 11, '64.
Musician.
Angelo Thompson, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Privates.
Addis, Simon P., e. Aug. 4, "62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Anton, Joseph R., e. Aug. 4,'62, m. o. June
21, '65, corpl.
Abby, James D., e. Aug. 4,'62, d. Mar. 7,'65.
Brown, Lyman P., e. itug.4,'62, died Feb. 3, '65.
Baylor, Washington, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June
21, '65, corpl.
Breese, Watson, e. Aug. 4,64, ab. at m. o. regt.
Breese, Noah, e. Aug. 4,'62, died April 10,'63.
Bree.se, Orin, e. Aug. 4, '64, died Nov. 18, '62.
Beasley, Thomas, sr.,e. Aug.4,'62, d. Mar. 16,'63.
Beaslev. Thomas, jr., e. Aug. 4,'62, m. o. June
21 ,'65. ■
Brandon, Parker, e. Aug. 4,'C2, died Aug.17,'64.
Broadrick William, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June
22,'65.
Carver, Ira C, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
378
HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY.
CockreU, RosweU, c. Aug. 4,'62, kid. Nov.
25, '63.
Convin, James, e. Aug. 4,'62, died Sept. 21, '63.
DeVVitt, David S., e. Aug. 4,'62, died Sep.22,'63.
Downs, William., e. Aug. 4, '62, kid. Nov. 23,63.
Edwards, David, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Frederick, Jacob Y., e. Aug. 4, '62, ab. at m. o.
of regt.
Fitzgerald, Haman, e. Aug. 4,'62, kid. Xov.
25, '63.
Fa-st, Omri, e. Aug. 4,'G2, m. o. June 21, '65.
Glothen, Charles, e. Aug. 4,'62, d. April 16,'63.
Gosham, Summers, e. Aug. 4,'62, m. o. June
21, '65, sergt.
(ribson, William, c. Aug. 4, '64, trans, to I. (J.
Hill, Johu W., e. A\ig. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Hiller, F., e. Aug. 4,'(i2, died July 1VI,'64.
Huston. J., e. Aug. 4, '62, ab: at m. o. of regt.
Johngan, A., e. Aug. 4, '62, ni. o. June 21, '65.
Johnson, W. H., e. Aug. 4,'62, m. o. June21,'65.
Krims, Sol., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Maulsby, Law., e. Aug. 4,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Maloon, Win., e. Aug. 4, '62, d. Sejjt. 4, '63.
Maloon, Samuel, e. Aug. 4. '62, trans, to I. C.
McKinlev, J., e. Aug. 4, '62. died Dec. 24, '62.
Mills, Benj. F., e. Aug. 4, '62, kid. Aug. 4,'64.
Oviatt, Daniel, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Purcell, Ed., e. Aug. 4,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Patterson, An., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Rogers, J. W., e. Aug. 4, '62, died Mar. 15, '64.
Ruey, H. C, e. Aug. 4, '62, corpl., trans. V. R. C.
Rube, Andrew, e. Aug. 4, '62, d. May 7, '63.
Reamy, Dan., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Reamy, John, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Rasmine, Thos., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65,
sergt.
Richardson, H., e. Aug. 4, '62, m.o. June 3, '65.
Robinson, I., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. ,Iune 21, '65.
Roberts, Joseph X., e. Aug. 4, '62.
Smith, T. K., e. Aug. 4, '62, d. Xov. 7, '63.
Swan, Jos. F., e. Aug. 4, '62, m, o. June 21, '65.
Stephenson, Sam'l, e. Aug. 4, '62, trans to I. C
Spencer, Sam., c. Aug. 4, '62, kid. June 15, '64.
Strickland, John, e. Aug. 4, '62, died Jan.24,'63..
Spencer, Wm., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Thomi)kins, A. C, e. Aug. 4, '62, d. Oct. 27,'63.
Tar, Jos., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. .lune 21, '65.
Wages, Jacob, e. Aug. 4, '02, d. Feb. 7, '65.
Wages, Isaac, e. Aug. 4, '62, d. May 16, '63.
Wages, James, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Williams, Henry, c. Aug. 4, '62, kid. June 27, '64.
Wilson, Simeon, e. Aug. 4,'62, m.o. June 21, '65.
Wilson, Charles, e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. .lune 2, '65.
Weaver, George H., e. Aug. 4,'62, in. o. Mav
11, '65.
Webb, Isaac, e. Aug. 4,'62, died July IS, '63.
Weed, Ivory P., e. Aug. 4, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Webster, Alphons, e. Aug. 4,'62, d. May 30,'63.
Watts, Converse Y., e. Aug. 4,'62.
Baigley, Henry.
Blair, Andrew" J.
Fonts, DaA'id.
Fitzpatrick, John, e. Mar. '.i,'65. trans, to 4i)tli
111. Inf.
Hurt!', Augustus.
McCann, Thomas, m. o. June 21, '65.
Weaver, James W., e. April 5. '65, trans, to 40th
ni. Inf.
COMPANY r.
Captaiiu.
William Vandevander.'e. Oct. 2. '62, res. April
10,'63.
Bernard Kelly, e. Oct. 2.'62, hon. d. Oct. 13,'64.
Jeremiah Vorhees, e. .Vug. 11, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Firi^t Lieutenants.
J. H. Bailev, e. Aug. 11, '62, kid. June 27,'64.
H. H. Orendorff, e. Aug. 20,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
First Sergeant.
DsLvid A. Snyder, e. Aug. 11, '62, d. Aug. 10,
'66, wnds.
Sergeants.
Jared Woorhees, e. Aug. 12,'62, d. Aug. 24,'64,
for pro.
William Griggsby, e. Aug. 14,'62, died Dee. 3,
'63. wnds.
Joshua Ellis, e. Aug. 11, '62, d. Mar. 16,'63, dis.
David Maxwell, e. Aug. 15,'62, died Dec. 18,'64.
Corporals.
William Walters, e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, sergt.
Hazael Putnam, e. Aug. 11, '62, d. June 5,'C3.
Daniel Walters, e. Aug. 14,'62, died Sept. 19,'63.
George W. Mo.ss, e. Aug. 14,'62, kid. June 27,'64.
John Swearingen, e. Aug, 11, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Whittield, Barnett, e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Mar. 28,
'63, dis.
Andrew J. Justice, e. .Vug. 11, '62, m. o. .rune
21, '65, sergt.
David Cranililet. e. Aug. 11, '62, died Sept. 2.s,'63.
Musici(ini<.
William A. Smith, e. Aug. 18,'62, d. Sept. 5,'63,
dis.
William E. Cooper, e. Aug. 21, '62, d. Jan. 30,
"64, dis.
M'agoncr.
Erastus McQueen, e. .Vug. 14, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Privates.
Andrew, D. D., e. Aug. 12,'62, died Feb. 24,'C3.
Augustine, Michael, e. Aug. 11, '62, corpl. kid.
Nov. 25, '63.
Brice, Thos. A., e. Aug. 15,'62.
Buck, C, e. Aug. 14,'62, corp. kid. July 22,'64.
Barker, C. E., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21, '65,
sergt.
Baylcss, F. J., e. Aug. 14,'62, died Jan. 24,'63.
Buck, Jos. H., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Buck, Josepli, e. Aug. 19,'62, m. o. June 21/65,
corpl.
Brinton, E. 1)., e. Aug. S,'62, d. Mar. 22,'65, dis.
Bailey, Maj., e. Aug, 11, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Baughman, Sam'l, e. Au.g. 14, '62. m. o. Juno
21, '65, corpl.
Barker, W., e. Aug. 14, '62, abs. at m. o. of regt.
Bailey, Jas. M., e. Aug. 11, '62, pro. 2d Lieut.
Campbell, Jos., e. Aug. 11, '62, died Mar. 3, '63.
Coleman, .M., e. Aug. 20,'62, died Xov. 12,'63.
Dearv, Ed., e. Aug. 11, '62 m. o. June 21, '65.
Dowier, Wm., e. Aug. 11, '62, died Oct. 6, '63.
Degrofl', H., e. Aug. 22, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Douglas, Sam'l, e. Augl2,'62, m. o. June '21, '65.
Ellsworth?, .1. W., e. Aug. 22, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Eyerly, Wm. .1., e. A\ig, 11, '62, in. n. .lune 21,
'65, coqil.
Ellis, Henry C, e. Aug. 22.'62, d. Fel). 24,'63.
Fordyce, J. F., e. Aug. 15, '62, d. Ai)rill6,'63,dis.
Frizzel, .loshua, e, Aug, is, '62, m.o. June 21, '65,
corpl.
Fisher, Wilson, e. Aug. 11, '62, pro. (piarterma.s-
ter sergt.
(Josnell, Wes. L., e, Aug. 11, '62, d. Mar. 16,'63,
dis.
Guthrie, F. M., e. Aug. 21, '62, died Jan. 31, '63.
Grove, Jno., e. Aug. 11, '62, trans, to I. C.
Gibson, Wm., e. Aug. 20,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Glimpse, S. S., e. Aug. 11, '62.
Haskin, C. V., e. Autr. 14, '62, m, o. June 21, '65.
Hale, Jas M., e. Aug. 11, '62, die<l May, 1S63.
Hoar, Will. ]'>., e. .Vug. '20, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Hari)er. ^lat.. e. Aug. 17, '62, m. o. June 21, '65,
corpl.
Holler, Will., t'. .Vug. 12. '62, ni. o. June 21,'65,
corpl.
Johnson. B., e. Aug. ]U,'62, m. o, June 21, '65.
Lermond, F., e. .Vug. 14,'t')2, pro. Sergt. ilaj.
Lawrence, Wni. D., e. Aug. 11. '62. m. o. June
2'.l.'65.
Lowland, Wm., e. Aug. 14,'62, died Oct. 1,'63.
Lowe, Mo.ses, e. Aug. 11,'62, died July 23,'64,
wnds.
rrrsToijY of rri/roN county.
379
I^wis, Geo. H.,e. Aug. 22,'fi2, died Oct. lS,'t>4,
wiirts.
Mo&s, Jos. H., e, Aug. 14,'02, m. o. June Jl/G.").
Mayo, Da-\id, e. Aug. 12, '61, m. o. June 21,'t)5,
sergt.
.Miller, .loel J., e. Aug. 11,'62, d. Jan. JT.'Ci.'), dis.
Manning, J. A., e. .\ug. 1."),'62, died May HI, '(i;!
McDonnell, Wm. H., e. Aug. 12, '02. m. o. May
27, '65.
Orondorff, H. H., e. Aug. 20,'62, d. May r,i.'6.-),
for pro.
Orendorff, Jno. W., e. Aug. 20,'62, d. May 2s,'(i4,
wnds.
Points, Dan'l, e. Aug. 20,'62, d. Mar. 16,'63, dis.
Prichard, Gilford, c. Aug. 1.5,'62, ahs. at ni. o.
of regt.
Pricliard, S., o. Aug. 22,'62, d. Aug. ir),'Gl, dis.
Post, Wra., e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. June21,'6.').
Kamsey. J. P., e. Aug. 22,'62, d. May 0,'68, dis.
Kockhold, Samuel W., e. Aug. 22, '62, ra. o.
June 21, '65, as sergt.
Rea, Sam'lG., e. Aug. i:!,'62, died June 21, iM,
wnds.
Spry, John, e. .\ug. 14, '62, abs. at m. o. of regt.
Stuart, Jacob, e. Aug. 14, '62, abs. m. o. of regt.
Stephens, M., e. Aug. 20, '62, d. June ",'64, dis.
Tavlor, Geo. W., e. Aug. 18, '62, corpl.
Wliite, Elijah, e. Aug. 18,'62, ni. o. June 21, ■6.'),
corpl.
W'Lse, John, e. Aug. 20, '62, m. o. June 21. '65.
Ware.Juo. H., e. Aug. 15,'62, died Nov. 21, '6:^,
wnds.
Walters, Jos. S., e. Aug. 11, '62, ni.o. June 21, '65.
Wheeler, S., e. Aug. lo,'62. m. o. June 21. '65.
Walters, Marion, e. -Vug. 22, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Hrowu, F., e. Feb. 15,'64, trans, to lllth Inf.
Caves, S. B., e. Feb. 8,'64, trans, to 4(itli Inf.
Degroft', J., e. Jan. 24,'64, trans, to 40th Inf.
Eskeringe, J. T., e. Feb. 8,'64, d. Mar. 31, '65,
wnds.
Harwick, Gscar, e. Oct. 10,'62.
Miller, Geo. E.,d. April 20,'63, dis.
Parvin, Chas., e. Sept. 21, '64, died Oct. 22,'64.
lUch. Pierce, e. Oct. 30,'62, kid. .July 28,'64.
Snvder, Peter.
Stafford, Wm., e. Oct. 12,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Tary. .\lfred, e. Feb. 15,'64, trans, to 40tli Inf.
COMPANY G.
First Sergeant.
Charles W. Griffith, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. July S,'6:!.
Sergeant )<.
Thos. A. Hill, e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. .luue 21, '65.
Wm. I'euny, e. Aug. S,'62, died Nov. 28,'64.
J. S. Brown, e. Aug. 9, '62, abs. at m. o. of regt.
Robt. C. Thomas, e. Aug. 18,'62, d. Jan. 16.'63.
Corporals.
Wm. Gustiue, e. Aug. IS, '62, d. .Ian. 8, '65.
Wm. W. Montgomery, e. Aug. 22, '62, trans, to
I. C. Sept. 20,'6o.
.Ins. Colton, e. Aug. 11,'62, m. o. .Innc21,'65.
K. Whittaker, e. Aug. 18,'62, kid. June 27, '64.
J. J. Williamson, e. Aug. 0,'62, m.o. June '21, '65.
N. Breed, e. Aug. 5,'62, sergt. died Dec. 7,'(>1.
wnds.
.1. E. Revuolds, e. Aug. 13,'62, d. May 21, '65.
V. Hanchet, e. Aug. 12,'62, d. Feb. 17,'65, sergt.
Musicians.
.1. H. Rodenbaugh, e. Aug. 22, '62, d. Jan. 15, '(io.
Primieji.
Amos, Americus, e. Aug. 15, '62, trans, to Co. I.
Bishop, Columbus II., e. Aug. 5, '62, m. o.
,Iune 21, '65, corpl.
Brown, Jeremiah, e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. May 27,
•65.
Beidenback, William, e. Aug. 20,'62, m. o.
June 21, '65.
Breed, Frank R., c. Aug. 6, '62, abs. at m. o. of
regt.
24
Byere, Isaac, e. Aug. 8, "62, m. o. .June 21, '65.
Cery, Francis M.. e. Aug. 6, '62, kid. Fot>.
25, '65.
Couyers, J., e. Aug. 13, '62, died March 5. '63.
Counterman. William, e. Aug. 6,'62, trans, to
I. C.
Craig, James H.. e. Aug. 11, '62, abs. at m. o. of
regt.
Cozad, James, e. Aug. 11, '62. d. Sept. 6, '63.
Carroll, Samuel, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. May 30, '63.
('rook, Josiah, e. Aug. 12,'62.
])uml)lazier, William G., e. .Vug. 22. '62, cap.
May 27,'64.
Davidson, Alphous, e. Aug. 0,'ti2. d. .Vjiril
•25, '64.
Foot, William, e. Aug. 22, '62.
Griggs, Franklin, e. Aug. 18, '62, in. o. .June
21, '65.
(iray, Wilson, e. Aug. 11, '62.
Hunt, Lemuel, e. Aug. 18. '62, d. March 20,'63.
Hudson, Stephen, e. Aue. 7, '62, ni. o. June
■21, '65.
llutt'ord, Abraham, e. Aug. 8, '62, kid. .\Iav
27. '64.
.lacobus. John, e. Aug. 13, '62, died .March
.31. '6.5.
.Jacobus, Thos. J., e. Aug. 13, '62, abs. at m. o.
of regt.
.lohnson, Abraham, e. .Vug. 11, '()2, d. Feb.
15, '63.
Lingenfelter. Josiah. c. Aug. 8. '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Lazwell, Josiah, e. .Vug. 22, '62, trans. t(i 1. c.
Oct. 22, '62.
Mvers, Artemus. c. .Vus. 22,'i)2, kid, .lunc
27, '64.
McEntvre, Samuel, e. Aug. 15, ■(i2, kid. .hiiic
27, '64.
McEntvre, Waterman, e. Aug, lt;,'62. died
March 28, '65.
Maxwell, Jacob E., c. Aug. It, '62, kid. .June
27, '64.
Moran, Oliver C, e. .Vug. 14, '62, died Mav
22, '63,
Mifliu, Henry J,, v. Aug. 22,'62, (iro. Hosp.
Stew.
Miksell, Isaac, e. Aug. 22. '62, m. o. .June 21, '65.
Xicholson, Jacob J., e. Aug. 11, '62. trans, to I,
C, Oct. 22, '63.
Nicholson, Wm., e. Aug. 22, '62, m. o .Inly 4, '65,
Parks, Henry C, e. Aug. 15,'62, d. Feb. 6,'63.
Purnell, Lewis, Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 21, '65,
sergt.
Prichard, John, c. Aug. y,'62, d. July 1 l.'(i3.
Richardson, James A., e. Aug. 'il,'62.
Richardson, Robt., e, Aug. 8, '62, m. o. .lune 21,
65, corpl.
Roadcape, J., e. .Vug. 8, '62, trans, to I. C. Oct.
22, '63.
Roadcape, .Allen, e. Aug. 8,'62, d. Feb. 28,'63,
Robert, Wm,, e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
corpl.
Record, C, e. Aug. 22,'62, trans, to I. C. Oct.
22, '63.
Ryan, M. B., e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Rejniolds, L. J., e. Aug. 14, '62, died Sept. 14, '63.
Reynolds, A., e. Aug. 11. '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Reynolds, J. W., Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21, '65,
corpl.
Heynolds. Jesse, e. Aug. 22,'62, d. Feb. 22,'63.
Rowlev, E., e. Aug. 13,'62, died April 13,'64.
Shoemaker, I., e. Aug. 11, '62, d. March 28,'63.
Shields, H. B., e. Aug. 14,'62, d. March 28,'63.
Slater, Ed. D., e. Aug. 18,'62, d. Dec. •20,'64.
Schenck, Oscar C, e. Aug. 22,'62, d. Oct. 2,'62.
Stone, David, e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June '21, '65.
corpl.
Smith, J. M., e. Aug. 22,'62, kid. July 22,64.
Stearns, P., e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Stearns, Horace, e. Aug. 7, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, sergt.
Sco\'ille, Geo., e. Aug. 8, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
sergt.
380
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Suydam, Ed., e. Aug. 6,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Switzer, lohn, e. Aug. 1.5,'62, died Aug. 8,'63.
Slack, Irwin, e. Aug. U,'6J, m. o. June 21 '6o.
Trader, George W., e. Aug. 13, '62, died Feb.
11,'63.
Tilling, Robert, e. Aug. 11, '62, d. April 16, 63.
West, James, e. Aug. 11, '62, d. Aug. 26,'63.
Williamson, Jas. L., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June
21, '65, corpl.
Williams, S., e. Aug. 22,'62, kid. May 27,'64.
Yocum, I. W., e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. Juue 21,'65.
Griggsby, Ellis, d. Jan. 15,'6:3.
Harrison, James. , ^ ,
Hill Eph. A., e. Dee. 2, '63, trans, to 40th Inf.
Hall, Jno. D., e. Dec. 2,'6-^, trans, to 40th Inf.
Myers, D. M., e. Dec. 2,'63, kid. June 27, '64.
Mvers, I. N., e. Oct. 14,'62, trans, to 40th Inf.
Payne, John, d. April 13, '63, dis.
Richardson, Wm., e. Oct. 10,'62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Smith, James, e. Jan. 1,'63, died Dec. 10, bo.
COMPANY H.
Captains.
J. J. Hale, e. Oct. 2,'62, res. eune 3.'63.
William Boyd, e. Oct. 2.'62, res. Nov. 11, '64.
F. M. Putnam, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 21.'6o.
First Lieutenants.
W. W. Fox, e. Aug. 9,'62, res. Sept. 17,'64.
J. L. Thoma-s, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 21,'65.
Second Lieutenants.
S D. Woodson, e. Oct. 2,'62, res. Mar. 26,'63.
Asahel Randel, e. Aug. 9,'62, kid. June 27, '64
First Sergeant.
William F. Fox, e. Aug. 9,'62, pro. 1st Lieut.
Sergeants.
Thomas Deens, e. Aug. 11, '62, trans, to I. C.
Francis M. Putnam, e. Aug. 9, '62. pro. Capt.
Samuel Campbell, e. Aug. 11, '02, m. o. June
21, '65, sergt.
Jesse Hiuderleiter, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June
21,'65.
Corporals.
Arthur Miles, e. Aug. 9,'62, trans, to I. C. April
28,'64.
Wm. S., Kimball, e. Aug. 12.'62. died N'ov. '62.
Wm. C. Lisenby, e. Aug. 22,'62, died April 18,
'63, wnds.
Asahel Handle, e. Aug. 9,'62, pro. sergt. com.
2d Lieut.
Thomas D. Kelly, e. Aug. 12,'62, died June '63.
Wm. J. Ashton, e. Aug. 12,'62. kid. June 15,'64.
J. A. Ridle, e. Aug. 12,'62. kid. June 27,'64.
J A. Westfall, e. Aug. 9,'62, trans, to I. C. May
31, '64.
Musicians.
Wm. T. Scott, e. Aug. 9, '62, m. o. June 22,'65.
Samuel T. Wells, e. Aug. 22,'62, d. Sept. 18,'63.
Privates.
Agnew, G. W., e. Aug. 11, "62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Austin, J., e. Aug. 12,'62, trans, to I. C. Jan.
15,'64.
Baker, John, e. Aug. 11, '62, died Aug. '63.
Belless, W., e. Aug. 12,'62, trans, to I. C. Jan.
15,'64.
Bennett, Amos, e. Aug. 9,'62.
Bird, Henrv, e. Aug. 11, '62, d. April,'64.
Bolen, W. J., e. Aug. 12,'62, corpl. kid. July
29,'64.
Bolen, W. B., e. Aug. 12, '62, d. March. '6.3.
Bordner, H. P., e. Aug. 11, '02, died Nov.'63,
wnds.
Clark, Robert, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. May31,'65.
Cornell, R. A., e. Aug. 9,'62, abs. at m. o. of
regt.
Campbell, M. K., e. Aug. n,'62, kid. June
27, '64.
Davis, W., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 21, '65,
sergt.
Deford, F. M., e. Aug. 11,'62, corpl. kid. Nov.
25, '63.
Deraott, C, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Evans, J., e. Aug. 9,'62, d. May,'64, wnds.
Ford, W. A., e. Aug. 22, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Gibbeny. T. F., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Glasscock, J. G., e. Aug. 12,'62, died July 6,'63.
Hair, Elijah C,, e. Aug. 9,'62, d. for pro.
Harris, Perry, e. Aug. 11, '62, wnd'd.
Harris, W., e. Aug. 22,'62, kid. Nov. 25,'63.
Hyde, John H., e. Aug. 15,'62, det. at m. o. of
regt.
Jellison, E,, e. Aug. 11,'62, kid. June 27,'64.
Jenkins, D. M., e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Kimball, E. T., e. Aug, 9,'02, trans, to I. C.
Lancaster, M., e. Aug. 9,'62, died April.'63.
Lathburv, J., e. Aug. 18,'62, m. o. June 22,'65.
Laws, Samuel T., e. Aug. 9, '62, trans, to I. C.
Laws, W. H., e. Aug. 9,'62, m, o. June 21,'65,
sergt.
Lenhart, D. A., e. Aug. 22,'62, abs. atm. o. of
regt.
Lisenbv, J., e. Aug. 22,'62, trans, to L C. Dec.
15, '63.
Linch, David, e. Aug. 9,'62, d. May ]8,'63.
Matuev, D., e. Aug. ]1,'62, d. May,"64, wnds.
Maxwell, D. E., e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 21.
'65, corpl.
McCarthy, D., e. Aug. 9,'62, died June, '63.
McCumbei, John, e. Aug. 12,'62, trans, to I. C.
Dec. 1.5, "63.
Miller, Berhard, e. Aug. 9,'62, kid.
Nieheson, J., e. Aug. r2,'62, m. o. June 21,'65.
Nokes, Aaron, e. Aug. 12,'02, died Dec. 21, '62.
Pressler, E., e. Aug. 12,'62, trans, to 40lh Inf.
Reeves. N. T., e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. june 21, '65.
Rice. Charles T., e. Aug. 9,'62. d. April 16,'63.
Rice. Henrv, e. Aug. 12,'62, died Feb. 18,'63.
Shortness, C., e. Aug. 12,'62. d. Jan. 7,'65,wnds.
Shrvock, J. P., e. Aug. 1S,'62; d. April 16,'63.
Sennett, A. R., e. Aug. 12,'62, died '63, wnds.
Slock, G., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Smith, B., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 21, '65,
sergt. ^ ^
Smith, C. M., e. Aug. 11, '62, trans, to I. C.
Smith, A., e. Aug. 12,'62, trans, to I. C. April
2S,'64.
Smith, Barnett, e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 21,
'05, corpl.
Sparger, Samuel, e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Stevenson. E. J., e. Aug. 12,'62, died Dec.'63.
Stutes, Wm. F. M., e. Aug. 9,'62, det. at m.
o. of regt.
Stutes, A., J., e. Aug. 9,'62, det. at m. o. of regt.
Stack, R., e Aug. 11, '62, died Dec. 18,'62.
Thomas, J. L., e. Aug. 9,'62, pro. 1st. Lieut.
Virgil, John, e. Aug. 9,'62, m. o. June 22,'65.
Walker. Hen., e. Aug. r2,'62, m. o. June 21, '65, '
corpl.
Weston, Sam., e. Aug. 9,'62. m. o. une 21, '65.
Wilcoxen, James C, e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. June
21, '65. corpl.
Wright, S. B., e. Aug. 9,'62, died Feb. — , '63.
Wright. W. O., e. Aug. 9,'62, d. Mar. —,'6.3, dis.
Wells, Wm., e. Aug. r2.'62, d. June —,'64, dis.
Austin, Wm. J., died July —,'63.
Austin. John E.. died Feb. —,'03.
Freeman, Martin, d. May — ,'63.
Gibbons, Mark, Feb. 18,'64, trans to 40th Inf.
June 19, '65.
Taylor, Henry.
Weston, Edwin.
COMPANY I.
Captains.
Phillip Medley, e. Oct. 2,'62, res. Feb. 4,'63.
S. H. Brown, e. Oct. 2,'62, res. April 1,'64.
W. S. Johnson, e. Oct. 2,'62,
HISTORY OF FTTT>TON COUNTY.
381
First Lieutenants.
N. P. Montgomery, e. Oct. 2, '62. kid. .June
27, '64.
Tim. Dewey, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Second Lieutenant.
Zeb. Branson, e. Oct. 15,'62, kid. June 27,'64.
First Sergeant.
A. S. Vansyckle, e. Aug. 4,'62, kid. June 2,'64.
Sergeants.
Isaac H. Ray, e. Aug. 14,'62.
James Howard, e. Aug. 15, '62.
J. B. Patterson, e. Aug. 21, '62, d. Apl 5,'65, dis.
David S. R. Jackson, e. Aug. 14,'62 .
Corporals.
Cornelius McWhirt, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. Dec. 15,
'64, sergt., dis.
ClifFord T. Lambert, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. Mar. — ,
'64, p'vt., dis.
Wm. H. Zolman, e. Aug. 15, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, sergt.
L. P. Zolman, e. Aug. 15,'62,- died Feb. —,'63.
John Butler, e. Aug. 14,'62.
Wm. Pierce, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21, '65,
sergt.
Arthur F. Bust, e. Aug. 15,'62, trans, to I. C.
W. H. Coons, e. Aug. 15,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Mu,ncians.
VV. A. Gustin, e. Aug. 15,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
D. Smith, e. Aug. 14,'62, d. Mar. 20,'63, dis.
Teamster.
Levi Hedger, e. Aug. 14, '62.
Privates.
Allison, John, e. Aug. 15, '62, died Oct. 24, '62.
Bevard, G., e. Aug. 14, '02, m. o. June 21, '65.
Brown, Geo., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21, '65,
corpl.
Berg, Henry, e. Aug. 14,'62, died April —,'63.
Bekelshymer, Charles, e. Aug. 15, '62, m. o.
June 21, '65, .sergt.
Branson, Zeb., e. Aug. 15, '62, pro 2d Lieut.
Bishop, Columbus H., e. Aug. 5, '62.
Clanin, Thos. J., e. Aug. 14,'62, died Julv 3,'63.
Clanin, John, e. Aug. 14,'62, died Oct. 11, '62.
Clanin, Thomas, e. Aug. 14, '62.
Cooper, John V., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Crawford, James, e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Coons, Henry, e. Aug. 14, '62.
Dervey, Tim., e. Aug. 14, '62, pro. 1st. Lieut.
France, Isaac, e. Aug. 21, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
France, Wm. R., e. Aug. 21, '62, died Jan. '64.
France, Michael, e. Aug. 21, '1)2, died Jan. '64.
France, Robert, e, Aug. 14, '62.
Goldsmith, James, e. Aug. 14, '62, corpl., kid.
June 15,'64.
Gray, Wm., e. Aug. 15, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Graven, John B., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, sergt.
Howard, Geo. O., e.Aug. 14.'62, m. o. June 21,
'65, sergt.
Hummel, G. F., e. Aug. 14,'62, trans, to 40th Inf.
Holt, William, e. Aug. 15, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Hillyer, John C, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, corpl.
Krous, James, e. Aug. 21, '62.
Kelly, Z. T., e. Aug. 14,'62, kid. June 15,'64.
Littleton, George D., e. Aug. 14, '62.
Littleton, John M., e. Aug. 14,'62, abs. at m. o.
of regt.
Littleton, F. e. Aug. 14,'62, died Mar. 18,'63.
Lease, Dan., e. Aug. 14,'62, d. Jan. 30,'64, dis.
McMuUen, Andrew, e. Aug. 14, '62.
Miller, Geo., e. Aug. 21, '64, trans, to 40th Inf.
Monroe, Enoch, e.Aug. 15,'62, died Aug. 20,'63.
Monroe, Allen, e. Aug. 21, '62.
Murry, Peter P,, e. Aug. 15,'62.
Murry, Thomas, e. Aug. 21, '62, died Jan. ,'63.
McQueen, Asa, e. Aug. 21, '62, abs. m. o. of regt.
Nevin, Simon, e. Aug. 14, '62, died Oct. 20,'63.
Nolan, Thos., e. Aug. 14, '61, died Feb. 18,'64.
Nolan, Henry, e. Aug. 15,'62, d. Mar. 30,'63, dis.
Paul, D., 6. Aug. 15,'62, d. Nov. 26,'63, wnds.
Parkinson, Thomas K., e. Aug. 15,'62, m. o.
June, 21, '65. corpl.
Parkinson, J., e. Aug. 15, '62, ab. at m. o. regt.
Patterson, Hamilton H., e. Aug. 15,'62, d. Mar.
27, '65, dis.
Pattenson, William, e. Aug. 15,'62, d. Nov., '63.
Pattenson, And., e. Aug. 15,'62, died Oct. 7,'63.
Patterson, T. S. e. Aug. 21, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Snider, Wm. H., e. Aug. 21, '62, kid. Nov. 25,'63.
Snider, Orville, e. Aug. 21, '62, kid. Nov. 25,'63.
Smith, Robert W., e. Aug. 21, '62.
Spry, Elias, e. Aug. 15,'62, det. at m. o. regt.
Sheppard, George, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June
21, '65, corpl.
Underwood, Jacob, e. Aug. 14,'62, d. Nov. 18,
'63, dis.
Valentine, M., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. june21,'65.
Warfleld, A., e. Aug. 15, '62, abs. at m. o. regt.
Wren, J. O., e. Aug. 21, ,62, d. Mar.'63, dis.
Peterson, Wm. S., e. Aug. 8,'62, App'ed Chap.
Fanchon, M. T., e. Aug. 14,'62, kid. June 27,'64.
Higgins, Hiram S., e. Atig. 14, '62.
.lohnson, Gary C, e. Aug. 14, '62.
Coleman, Wm. L., e. Aug. 14,'62, d. July 15,
'64, dis.
Grigsliy, Ellis, e. Aug. 22,'62.
McKoggan, James, e. Aug. 22, '62.
Clanin, J. S., e. Mar. 6,'65, trans to 40th Inf.
Ames, Americus, abs. at m. o. of regt.
Bishop, Nimrod C.
Coons, Samuel.
Long, William.
Miller, JohnS.
VanBrunt, J. W. Appointed Ass't Surgeon.
Weston, Jos., e. Aug. 22,'62, m. o. June 21,'65,
COMPANY K.
Captains.
J. C. King, e. Oct. 2, '62, died Jan. 3, '63.
A. B. Smith, e. Oct. 2,'62, m. o. June 21,'65.
First Lieutenant.
Aaron Amesley, e. Oct. 2,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
' First Sergeaiit.
P. Barry, e. Aug. 22,'62, m, o. June 21, '65.
Sergeants.
D. Wilcox, e. Aug. 11, '62, died Dec. 19,'63,wnds.
J. Stickler, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 17,'65.
C. W. Fellows, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Tim. Coakley, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Corporals.
H. Stickler, e. Aug. 13, '62, died Julv 2, '64.
J. B. Prentiss, e. Aug. 11, '62, trans, to I. C.
J. E. McGrath, e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o June 21,'65.
Geo. H. Woodcock, e. Aug. 12, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
W. Jacobs, e. Aug. 11, '62, sergt., abs. m. o. regt.
J. Gibson, e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
J. Briley, e. Aug. 14, '62, d. May 7, '63, dis.
Jacob Debert, e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21, '65,
sergt.
Mu,ncians.
Payne, C. E., e. Aug. 14,'62, pro. prin. music'n.
Wheeler. D. L., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Private-s.
Aub.iugh, Jesse, e. Aug. 13,'62, died Mar. 30,'65.
Bricker, D. U., e. Aug. 13,'62, died June 18,'63.
Bailie, Rufus M. e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65. corpl.
Burge, C, e. Aug. 13. '62, d. Mar. 29, '63, dis.
Burge, Wm., e. Aug. 13,'62, died Dec. 17,'63,
wnds.
Benson, M., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Baughman, H., e. Aug. 13,'62, corpl. kid. Aug.
23,'64.
382
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Boulby, J. P., e. Aug. 12,'62, died Aug. 1,'63.
Bucklev, A., e. Aug. 14,'62, died Feb4,'64.
Banks,"Wm. S., e. Aug. 22, '62, died Mar. 19,'r):;.
Custon, E., e. Aug. 1.3,'62, trans, to I. C. Sept.
1,'63.
Cooper, Wm., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21, 'ft).
Carroll, Wm. H., e. Aug. 13,'62, died Nov. 20.
'63, wnds.
Caldwell. J. B., e. Aug. ll.'tK, died Feb. 12,'63.
Crippin, W. E., e. Aug. 13,'t52, m.o. June21,'6.D.
Cathus, G. W., e. Aug. 14,'B2.
Castello, W. A., e. Aug. 14,'62, m.o. June 21, '6.:),
Coleman, J., e. Aug. 22,'62.
Deford, Thos., e. Aug. 13,'<)2, cap'd May 28,'64.
Dunham, J., e. Aug. 14,'62, ra. o. June 21,'65,
corpl.
Dorrance, W. M., e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June
21,'6.i.
Evans, A., e. Aug. 12,'62, died June 2.5,'63.
Evans, M., e. Aug. 11,'62, abs. wnd'datm. o. of
regt.
Gasarow, A., c. Aug. 14.'62, m. o. June 21, '6o.
Grim, G. D., e. Aug. 22,'62, died Oct. 14,'65.
Holt, S. R., e. Aug. 13, '62, d. Feb., '6.3.
Harkhouse, G. W., e. Aug. 11,"62.
Harman, J. P., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June '21, '6.5.
Hews, A., e. Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Hughes, J. E., e. Aug. 13,'6'2.
Haptonstall, J. H., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June
21, '6.5.
Harper, J. W., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Hallan, W. H., e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June 24,'65.
Hall, B., e. Aug. 14,'62, d. .Sept. 16,'63.
Hughes, M., e. Aug. 13,'62, m. o. ,iune 21, '6.5.
Huber, W. C, e. Aug. 12,'62, died Jan. 4.'6.3.
Heldebeidel. G., e. Aug. 14, '02, d. May 16,'63,
dis.
Harder. C, e. Aug. 14,'62. d. April 16,'63, dis.
Jackson, G., e. Aug. 22, '62. d. Mar. 20, '63, dis.
Jacox, M., e. Aug. 22,'62, kid. July 28.'(>4.
Kellogg, H., e. Aug. 14, '62, died Dec. 20, '63.
Ketchum, J., e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 21, '6.5.
Ketchum, L. T., e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 21,
'65, sergt.
Lockwood. G., e. Aug. 11,'62, m. o. June 21, '6.5.
Messinger, S., e. Aug. 13, '62, m. o. June 21, '65
McMillen, T.C., e.Aug. ]3,'62, d. Jan.17,'63, dis.
Miller, N. D,, e. Aug. 22, '62, abs. at m. o. regt.
Minnick, G. \V., e. Aug. 14, '62, m.o. June 21, '65.
Xewman, J. P., e. Aug. 12,'62, m.o. June 21. '65.
Provard, J., e. Aug. 14,'62, died May 15,'63.
Paul. G. W., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Pierce, J. H., e. Aug. 11, '62, trans, to I. C. Sept.
1,'63.
Re%-nolds, J., e. Aug. 13.'62, trans, to 1. C. Oct.
"20, '63.
Ringer, J,, e. Aug. 11,'62, ra. o. June 2\,'6o.
Rose, H. G., e, Aug. 11, '62. cap'd May 28,'64.
Scanlon, B., e. Aug. 12, '6J, d. July 6. "64.
Silvernail, J., e., Aug. U, '62, died Nov. 27, '63,
wnds.
Schaefler, W., e, Aug. 12,'62, m. o. June '21, '65,
corpl.
Tallmadge, Theo. T., e. Aug. 12, '62. ni. o. June
21. '65.
Varner, G. W., e. Aug, 15,'62, m. o. June 21,'65.
Varner, J. M., e. Aug. 14. '62, trans, to 40th Inf.
Veron, J. B., e. Aug. r2.'62, d. June 8.'63, dis.
Wander, A., e. Aug. 12,'62, kid. June 6,'63.
Weekel, J., e. Aug. •22,'62, m. o. June 21, '65.
Zimmerman, G. W., e. Aug. 14, '62, m. o. June
21, '65.
Anderson, J., d. April 16, '63, dis.
Hugh, T., died Sept. 20,'63.
Smith, J. K.. det'd at m. o. of regt.
Wright, G. W.. pro. Maj.
Lingenfelter, J., died Mar. 22, '65.
Lewis, W. D.
Peterson, Isaac B., died April 2, '64.
Phillip, S. T., died May 8, '64.
113th INFANTRY.
Snvder, J. L., Co. D, e. Dec. '26. '63, m. o. Sept.
" 10, '6.5.
Nelson, M. H., Co. E, e. Aug. 11,'62, died Jan.
5. '63.
Ralph, C. M., Co. E, e. Aug. 11, '62, died June
8,'64.
Runvan. L., Co. E, e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June
20,'65.
Runvan, J. W., Co. E, e. Aug. 11, '62, died Mar.
30, '63.
COMPANY H.
Second Lieutenant.
G. A. Woodruff, e. Aug. 7,'62, m. o. June 20,'65.
Corporals.
Stephen Hamblin, e. Aug. 14,'62, m. o. June
20, '65, sergt.
John Frith, e. Aug. 10,'62, m. o. June 26,'65,
sergt.
P. D. Sutton, e. Aug. 11, '62, m. o. June 20,'65,
sergt.
Private!'.
Chapman, A. P., e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Jan. 8,'63.
dis.
Devoe, Richmond, c. Aug. 9,'62, trans, to I. C,
wnds.
Everett, D., e. Aug. 13,'62, d. Nov. 14,'62, dis.
Frith, C. W., e. Aug. 13,'62.
Holmes, John, e. Aug. 7.'62, died Dec. 12,'63.
Kellev, H. H., e. Aug. 11,'6'2, trans, to I. C.
Mills," E. E., e. Aug. 7,'62, m. o. June •20,'65.
Sammonds, Adam, e. Aug. 11, '62, died Feb.
18, '63.
Sammonds. Nicholas, c. Aug. 13, '62.
Sutton, Smith, e. Aug. 11, '62. Ji. o. June 20,'65.
Straney. John, e. Aug. 11.'62, died Oct. 22,'64.
while pris.
Horton, P. I , e. Mar. 4, '65, Co. E, 118th regt.
Schundy, Julius, e. Feb. 23,'65, Co. E, 118th
regt.
Capt. O. H. Clark, e. Oct. 29,'62, Co. C, 120th
regt.
123tl INFANTRY.
COMPANY I.
Serge'int.'!.
Jhon Patterson, e. Aug.'62, ra. o. June 2<8,'65.
J. M. Killough, e. Aug.'62, d. Oct. 28,'63, dis.
Corporal.''.
S. F. Hallctt, e. Aug.'62, abs. at ra. o. of regt.
J. 1). Drvden, e. Aug.'62, d. May 10,'63, dis.
S. B. Morrison, e. Aug.'62, died Feb. 3,'63.
J. M. Wood, e. Aug.'62, d. April 27, '63, dis.
Pi-ivatc-i.
Armstrong, J., e. Aug.'62, m. o. June 28,'65.
Bradford, John, c. Aug.'62, died of wnds. Oct.
8, '62.
Bargerhoof. W. R., e. Aug. '62, died of wnds.
Baker, John W., e. Aug.'62, m. o. June 28,'65.
Riddle, F. G., e. Aug. '62, m. o. June '28, '65.
Catlin, S. P., e. Aug., '62, died of wnds.
Cro.ss, H. E.. e. Aug., '62, died of wnds.
Cozee, R., e. A>ig.'62, d. for wnds. Sept. 15,'62.
Eastin. Ja.sper, e. Aug.'62, m. o. June 2S,'65.
Hall, A. D., e. Aug.'62, abs. at ra. o. of regt.
wnds.
Hushoar, John, e. Aug.'62, died April 29,'63.
Killnuah, Wm., e. Aug.'62. m. o. June 28,'65.
Matthews, Eli, e. Aug.'62, d. April 20 '64, dis.
Matthews, Martin, e. Aug.'62. died Feb. 5,'63.
Matthews, Wm.. e. Aug.'62, m. o. June 28,'65.
Morrison, J., e. Aug.'62, ra. o. June 28,'65.
Poland. J., e. Aug.'62, died Nov. 3,'63.
Price, Jo.seph. e. Aug., '62, d. April 13,'63, dis.
Rodgers. J. W., e. Aug., '02.
White, J. R., e. Aug. '62, m. o. June 28,'6.j.
132(1 INFANTRY.
This regiment was organized at Camp Fry.
Chicago, by Colonel Thomas A. Pickett, and
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
383
was mustered in for one hundred days from
Junelst,'64. The regiment received orders to
move, June fith, for Columbus, Ky., where it
arrived on the Sth, and reported to Brigadier-
General Henry Price. On the 15th of June
moved to Paducah, Ky., and reported to Col.
S. G. Hicks. The 132d remained on duty at
Paducah until expiration of senicc, when it
moved to Chicago, and was mustered out Oct.
17, '64.
Liaitenani Colovd.
Wm. H. Haskell, e. .fune 1,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '04.
Principal Musicians.
A. F. Small, c. April •i9,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
J. J. Hosselkuss, e. May 9,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
COMPANY B.
Second Lieutenant.
.V. H. Heminover, e. June 1,'64, m. o. Oct.
17,'G4.
Sergeants.
J. M. Onion, e. May 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Harry Post, e. May 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'r)4.
Corporals.
R. Lane, e. Mav 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '04.
Wm. Dancev, e". M^y 10, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Joshua Belt, e. May 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Privates.
Brick, B. S., e. May 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Beers, Samuel, e. Mav 10, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Berry. J. H., e. May 10,'G4. m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Barnes, Eli E., e. Mavl0,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Bronson, C. C, e. May 10, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Bromley, John, e. May 10, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Bovnton, E., e. Mav 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Bodkins, I. B., e. Mav 27,'64, m. o. Oct, ]7,'64.
Chapman, J. W., e. May •JS.'iM, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Denston, J. H., e. May 10,'64, m. o. Ocj. 17, '04.
Dunbar, F. C, e. May 27, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Dickenson, Mahlon, e. May 6, '64.
Engles, James, e. Mav 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17. '64.
Evans, Edward, e. Mav 1.3,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Foster, H. L., e. May 10,'64. m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Jameson, James, e. Mav 10, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Kingerv, M. M., e. Mav 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Leichlitcn, H., e. May 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
McCausland, Wm., e. Mav 15,'64, m. o. Oct.
17,'64.
Mills, Da\'id. c. :Mav 16,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Miller, S., e. May 16, '64, died Aug. 9, '64.
Newberrv, W., e. May 10,'64, m. o.Oct. 17,'64.
O'Conner, N., e. Mav 14, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Onion, J. N., c. May 16, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'04.
Parr, John, e. Mav 16, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Plotts. Alex., e. May 16,'64. m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
I'avne, L. M., e. Mav 16,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Kevnolds, W. H., e. May 16.'64, m. o. Oct.
17, '64.
Southerland, W., e. May 9, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Southerland, Silas, e. Mav 12,'64, rejected.
Shields, A. A., e. May 16V64, m. o. Oct. 17,'61.
Shields, W. T., e. Mav 6, '64, rejected.
Wallace, J. P., e. Isl-iy 27,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Rogers, James.
COMPANY D.
Captain.
Frank E. Chase, e. June 1,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
First Lieutenant.
H. A. Ander.son, e. June 1, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Second LJcuicnant.
Wm. C. Babcock, e. June 1, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Sergeants.
Wm. A. Ralston, e. May 2,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
C. C. Mendenhall, e. Mav 2,'(54, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
W. M. Bryant, e. April 30,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
C. Uempsey, e. May 3,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Corporals.
P. M. Bays, e. May4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
M. A. Ringland, e. May 2, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Ora Chapin, e. May 6, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
('. Weckmire, e. May 2, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
J. V. Morris, e. May 7,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
J. H. Chrisman, e. Mav 3, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
T. H. Barnes, e. ApriI19,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
G. M. L. Lucas, e. May 13, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Musician.
A. L. Gridley, e. May4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Privates.
Bordner, A., e. May 4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Brown, Geo., e. Mav 16, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Blum, John, e. May 23,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Bishop, D. A., e. May 25, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Childers, Abram, e. Mav 7, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Crusen, J. W., e. Mav 30,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Conner, T. K., e. May 6,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Cruisen, James, e. Mav 6, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Cordner, T. J., e. May 16,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
(Arouse, C. H., e. May 4, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'62.
Colby, George, e. May 9, '64.
Dickev, Lisle, e. Mav 2, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Danley, H. B., e. May 13,'64, died at Paducah,
Ky., Aug. 26,'64.
Dunn, David, e. Mav 6, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Darby H. H., e. May 8,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Dav, Howard, e. Mav 16, '64.
Dunham, Patrick, e. May 10,'64.
Filer, Joshua, e. May 25, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Fetters. O. P., e. May 4, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Greenville, E., e. May 14, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64,
Green, Veley, e. May 6, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '62.
Gapen, J. Z., e. May 9, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Goforth, W. P., e. May3,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Harper, Cartney, e. May 6, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Harper, Caleb, e. May 10,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Hall, V. E., e. May 6,'64, m, o. Oct. 17,'64.
Heaton, M., e. Mav, 25,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Jay, W. S., e. May 5,'64, m. o. Oct 17,'64.
Kimball, F. L., Mav 14, '64, died at Paducah,
Ky., Aug. 10, '64.
Little, X., e. May 2,'64, m. o. Oct 17,'64.
Laws, Spencer, e. May 3,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Lantz, W. W., e. May 26,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Morris, W. W., e. May 26,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
McLain, John, e. Mav 14,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Merrill, G. A., e. May23,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Newton, J. A., e. May 1,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Pippet, J. E., e. Mav 16, '64.
Phelps, E. F., e. Mav 25,'64. m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Ralston, J, C, e. May 8,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Schnebly, H. L., e. May 6,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Scrivner, L., c. May 9, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Smith, O. A., e. May 14, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Smith, G. S., e. Mav 5,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Sain, W. H., e. May 2,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Simpkins, James, e. Mav4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Van Dvke, H. W., e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Van Dyke, C. C, e. May 4, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Vance, Geo., e. Mav 5, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Wells, S. R., e. May 3, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Weaver, A., e. Mav4,'('>4, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Wheeler, W. E., e. May 16, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
COMPANY E.
Captain.
Sam'l Mutt. e. June 1, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
First Lieutenant.
Geo. A. Turner, e. June 1,'G4, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Second Lieutenant.
J. F. Smith, e. June 1,'64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
384
HISTORY OF FULTO^* COU>'TY
Sergeants.
W. P. Tanquarv, e. April •28.'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'&4.
O. D. Sebree. e. April 2.S,'frl, m. o. Oct. 17.'&4.
G. B. Vittum. e. April 28.'&i, m.o. Oct. 17.'64.
Geo. W. King, e. Mav 7,'64, m. o. Oct. a7.'&4.
Dan. Sa\-ill, e. Mav 9,'64, m. o. Oct. 17. '&4.
J. P. Fox, e. April 2.S,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Corporcds.
G. M. Sebree, e. Mav 11. '&4, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
J. Martin, e. April 2S,'&1, m. o. Oct 17,'64.
E. M. Belt, e. Mav 9,&4. m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
J. C. Malonev, e. Mav 9,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Frank Dnnlev, e. Mav 16,'iH, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Geo. W. Craig, e. Mav 16,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'&4.
J. M. Putnam, e. May 16,'&4, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Wagoner.
J. Willis, e. April 29,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Privates.
Authonv. Seth, e. Mav 22,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'&4.
Arendale. J. T., e. April 30,'64, m. o. Oct.l8.'64.
Bonner, Frank, e. April 28."t>4, m. o. Oct. 18,'&4.
Barber, J., e. Mav 27,"&1, m. o. Oct. 18,'64.
Barker, C. T., e. May 9,'64, m. o. Oct. 18,'i>4.
Barker, Geo., e. Mav 2,'&4, m. o. Oct. 1S,'&4.
Berkenshaw, Geo., e. April 30,'64, m. o. Oct.
18,'64.
Bragg, J. F., e. April 28."&4, m. o. Oct. 18,'65.
Binnix, Wm., e. April 28.'t>4, m. o. Oct. 18,'64.
Bavlor, S., e. May -l.'&i, drowned June 15, "W.
Bovles, Joseph, e. Mav 7, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Burgett, T. F., e. Mav2S,"64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Brees, A. T.. e. May 27,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Brown. Booker, e. May 3. '64.
Curtis, Orlando, e. May 4.'ti4.
Courtnev, T. J., e. May 5. '64.
Ellis, J. H.. e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Evans, H. R.. e. Mav 3.'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Fanning, L., e. Mav 16,'64, m. o. Oct. 17. '64.
Flake, Geo. e. April •28.'64. m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Grimm, H. B., e. April •29,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Hughes, W. T., e. April 28,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Hughes, W. P., e. May 1,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Hand, J. D.. e. Mav 6.'64. m. o. Oct. 17,'&4.
Johnston. C. S., e. April :>0,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Jones. James, e. Mav 27, '64. m. o. Oct. 17,'64. .
Jourdan, G. E.. e. Mav 28,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Lockwood, H. C, Mav4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Langlev, A., e. Mav 6,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
McClelien, H. T., e. May 30, '64, m. o. Oct.
17,'64.
McCrearv, W. H., April 29,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Malonev, Wm., e. April 29.'64.m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Manors", Sam'l, e. Mav 1, '64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
McVav", E. J., e. Mav 30,'64.
Norcutt, C, e. April 30,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Onstatt, T. J., e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Oldhem, E., Mav 2.'64, m. o. Oct. ]7,'64.
Plattenburg. W., e. Mav 2,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Putnam, B. T., e. Mav 28,'64, m. o. Oct. 17.'64.
Rowlev, G. W., e. Mav 2,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Rowlev, Thos., e. Mav 6.'64, m. o. Oct. 17.'64.
Rainev, J. E.. e. May 10,'M. m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Rankin, J. H., e. May 5,'6i, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Robert*, Lerov, e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Rockhold, E. "G., e. Mav 3,'64. m. o. Oct. 17.'64.
Shinn, W. B., e. April •29,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Snvder, P. S.. e. Mav 14.'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Snvder, P. G., e. Mav 14.'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Snvder, R. D., e. May9,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Shallenberger, Benj., e. April 30,'64, m. o.
Oct. 17,'64.
Tanquarv, A. M., e. April 2S,'64, m. o. Oct.
17,'64.
Tvler, Geo., e. Mav 10.'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Wolgamot, W. E., e. April 29,'64, m. o. Oct.
17.'64.
Wieser, R. B., e. Mav 9, '64, m. o. Oct. 17, '64.
Wvckoff, J. H., e. April 28,'61. m. o. Oct.17,'64.
Wvsong, J. M., e. Mav 16.'&4, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Wilcox, O. D., e. Mav 3,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Wilson, W. H., e. May 9,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Wilson, T., e. May 29,'64, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Putnam, Alfred, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Van Buren, E\erett, m. o. Oct. 17,'64.
Corporal.
C. K. Offield, e. April 30,'61, Co. F, 134th regt.
137th REGIMENT.
COMPANY D.
Coporals.
T. R. Johnson, e. Mav 4,'&4, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
G. H. Currier, e. May 4, '64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Privates.
Beaver, D. M., e. Mav4.'64. m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Cook, W. C, e. Mav4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Cox. W. M., e. Mav 4,'64. m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Dressel, Peter, e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Fengel, C. P., e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24.'64.
Freer, F. A., e. Mav 4, '64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Hagaman, A., e. ^iav4,'64, ra. o. Sept. 24.'64.
Hines, J. R., e. Mav4,"64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Jones, O. D., e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24, '64.
Kent. C. W., e. May 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24.64.
Lippev, D. E., e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Merrill. A. H., e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24, '64.
Moss, W. B., e. Mav 4.'64, m. o. Sept. 24,"64.
Xelson, J. P., e. Mav 4.'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Ross, F. W., e. Mav4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24, '64.
Sanford, A., e. Mav 4. '64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Smith, W. L., e. Mav 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Shultz. D. H., e. May 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Stanton, F. W., e. May 4. '64.
Walton. J. J., e. Mav 4,"64, m. o. Sept. 24.'64.
Griffith, H. L., e. May 4,'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
co:mpany I.
Sergeant.
L. H. McCain, e. May 12,'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Corporals.
S. Miller, e. Mav 13,'64, m. o. Sept. 24, '64.
J. Sw-ink, e. May 12,'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Privates.
Heaton, Geo., e. Mavl0,'64. m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Alavall, D. S., e. Mav ]2,"64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Phillips, Jos., e. Mav 11, '64. m. e. Sept. 24,'63.
Steel, J., e. Mav 12.'64, m. o. Sept. •24,'64.
Vaughn, S., e. May 10.'64, m. o. Sept. 24,'64.
Ackersou, J., e. Mav, m. o. Sept. 24, '64.
Crabtree, B. F., e. May 13,'64,m.o. Sept. 24, '64.
138tli INFANTRY.
COEPAXY C.
Second Lieutenant.
W. H. Rose, e. June 21, 64, m. o. Oct. 14,'&4.
Sergeant.
S. X. Rose, e. May 2,'64, m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Privates.
Barbour, Robt., e. May 2,'64, m. o. Oct. 14,"64.
Cutler. L. W., e. Mav 30,'64, m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Davis, W. H., e. Mav 12.'64. m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Hobbs, L.. e. Mav 7. '64, m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Morris, Michael, e. Mav 7,"64. m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Parkins. W. H., e. Mav 5,'64, m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Rose, B., e. Mav2.T>4, m. o. Oct 14,'64.
Stevens, Chas., e. Mav 7,'64, m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Tavlor, Benj.. e. Mav 16.'64. m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Willis, J. H.. e. Mav 5.'64, m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Winchel, E. J., e. May 12,'64. m. o. Oct. 12,'61.
C03IPAXY E.
Bishop, I. E., e. Mav6,'64, m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
Bishop, Jai., e. Mav 6,'64, m. o. Oct. 14, '64.
Hartsou, J., e, May 5,'64, m. o. Oct. 14,'64.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
385
148tli INFANTRY
Was organized at Camp Butler Februarj' 21,
1865, for the term of one year. February 22
proceeded to Nashville, Tenu. March 1 moved
toTullahoma. J\ine 18 five companies were
ordered to Deckerd, one company was station-
ed at McMinnville, and the other four com-
panies were engaged in guarding the Nashville
and Chattanooga Rxilroad from Lombardy to
Anderson Station. Arrived at Springtied Sep-
tember 9, 1865, where it received its final dis-
charge.
COMPANY B.
Major.
A. A. Hemenover, e. Feb. 10, '65, m. o. Sept.
5, '65.
Captain.
Walter Newton, e. Feb. 10,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
First Lieutenant.
S. C. Varner, e. Feb. 10,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'6.5.
Second Lieutenant.
N. Dorrance, e. Feb. 10, '65, ra. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Sercjeants.
D. L. Sergeant, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
•Tno. Birber, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
M. H. Thorn, e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
G. W. King, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
J. M. Bell, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
F. Donly, e. Feb. 4.'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65,
Corporals.
J. R Garritson, e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
H. 8. Cain, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
H. Medley, e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
\Vm. McCord, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept, 5, '65.
M. Spinnev, e. Feb. 4, '65.
B. \\ heeler, e. Feb. 4,'G5, m.o. Sept. 5,'65.
Musician.
J. M. Wysong, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Wagoner.
J. M. Wilson, e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Privates.
Abbott, Wm.,e. Feb. 4, '65, died Feb. 10,'65.
Andrews, G. B., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Feb. 5, '65.
Burnett, D. W., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. May n,'65.
Brant, Jas., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o, Sept. 5, '65.
Brant, G. C, e. Feb. 4, '65, d. Jane 12, '65.
Barlier, Geo., e. Feb. 4, '65, ra. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Binuix, \V. H., e. Feb. 4,'65.
Bovvers, F., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Bricker, J. D., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Corzalt, F., e. Feb. 4,'6.5, died Mar. 1,'65.
Drake, .1. L., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Drake, J. M. e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Ellis, H., e. Feb. 4. '65, m. o. Aug. 25,'65.
Grissons, J. H.. e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Aug. 28, '65.
Gooding, 8., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Golding, A. F., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5.'65.
Hasty, \V. H., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. May 24,'65.
Hinkle, S. R., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Hittibidal, Geo., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Hand, J. D., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Hezless, Wm., e. Feb. 4, '65.
Jacob, G. W., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Jackson, Wm., e. Feb. 4, '65.
Kennedy, A., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. June 19, '65.
Lockwood, H. C, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'64.
Louder, M. D., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Mabin, E., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
McClure, S. S., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
McCord, I., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Miller, I. N., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. July 14,'65.
Newton, B., e. Feb. 4,'G5, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Oldham, E., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65,
Plattenburg, W., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'64.
Rhoads, Wm., e. Feb. S,'65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Rollins. E. S., e. Feb. 7, '65, died Mar. 16, '65.
Rector, W. H., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. May 24,'65.
Reynolds, D. C, e. Feb. 4,'65.
Riihdall, D., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Rockhold, L. C, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Race, G. H., e. Feb. 4,'65.
Rockentield, Asa, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Shiun, W. B., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Smith, J. H., e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5, '65.
Strong, J. S., e. Feb. 4, '65.
Shaw, John, e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'6.5.
Shrader, J.,e. Feb. 4, '65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Shrader, J. C, e. Feb. 4,'65, died Feb. 10,'65.
Shaw, S. R., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Webster, A., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Waddele, H. S., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 5,'65.
Thompson, C, e. Feb. 10,'65. Co. I.
Thompson, John, e. Feb. 10,'65, Co. I.
151st INFANTRY.
This regiment was organized at Quincy, 111.,
and made up from various parts of the State,
recruited under the call of December 19th,
1864. The regiment was ordered to Springfield,
111., where, Febuary 25, 1865, the field and
staff officers were mustered in and the regiment
was ordered to Nashville, Tenn., thence to
Dalton, Ga., where they remained, drilling
and doing guard and picket duty. April 23,
Col.Woodall was ordered to proceed, under flag
of truce, to Macon, Ga., to carry terms of sur-
render to the rebel Gen. Warford. May 2 the
regiment was ordered to Kingston, Ga., arriv-
ing on the 12th, after a toilsome march. Here
on May 13, 14, and 15, 1865, the regiment re-
ceived the surrender of Gen. Warford, with
10,400 prisoners. The 151st was mustered out
at Columbus, Ga., January 24, 1866, and moved
to Springfield, 111., where it received final dis-
charge Feb. 8lh, 1866.
COMPANY B.
Captain.
Philip Slaughter, e. Feb. 17,'65, m.o. Jan. 24,'66.
First Lieutenant.
Wm. J. Harroll, e. Feb. 17,'65, m.o. Jan. 24,'66.
Second Lieutenant.
John Newland, e. Feb. 17, '65. m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Sergeants.
J. W. Negley, e. Feb. 7,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Wm. Brvant, e. Feb. 7,'65, m. o. Feb. 21, '66.
J. M. Brown, e. Feb. 7,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Corporals.
W. A. Wheeler, e. Feb. 7,'65.
A. Coleman, e. Feb. 14, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Stephen Hayden, e. Feb. 14, '65, m.o. Jan. 24, '66.
Dan. Spanney, e. Feb. 14, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Musicians.
J. M. Long, e. Feb. 14, '65, died Mar. 28,'65.
A. Bacus, e. Feb. 8,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Wagoner.
S. P. Darst, e. Feb. 7,'65, died Mar. 6,'65.
Privates.
Anderson, T., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Barrow,s, R. H., e. Feb. 8, '65, died May ],'65.
Biirge, F. M,, e. Feb. 10,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Boyer, L. D., e. Feb. 7, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Baxter, John, e. Feb. 15, '65, ai. o. Jan. 24, '66.
380
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
Churchill, J. M., e. Feb. 7,'65, m. o. Jan. 21/66.
Caliee, J., e. Feb. 9,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'ii6,
Cook, Jarrod, e. Feb. 9,'Co. m. o. Jan, 24.'66.
Cook, "W., e. Feb. 10,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Churchill, AV. M., e. Feb. 7, '6.5, m.o. Jan. 24,'66.
Cain, D. M., e. Feb. 9, '6.5, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Curtis, O., e. Feb. 9,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Bodds. Robt.. e. Feb. 7,'65, m. o. Jan. 24.'66.
Ellis, J. \V., e. Feb. 14.'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Flake, G. W., e. Feb. 14,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Guilliams, J. W., e. Feb. 14, '65, m.o. Jan. 24, '66.
Hudson. J., e. Feb. 10,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Hofl'man, M., e. Feb. 10,'65, in. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Johnson, W. T., c. Feb. 14,'65.
Kent, Wesley, e. Feb. 8.'65. m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Milligan, H., e. Feb. 7.'6.5, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Mills, W. H., e. Feb. 7,'65, died Oct. 18.'6o.
Matzke, J., e. Feb. 7, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Preston, Ed., e. Feb. 10, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Purkle, Geo., e. Feb. 7.'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '65.
Ramsey, Wm., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Aug. 21, '65.
Reed, G. W., e. Feb. 9,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Reed, James, e. Feb. 9,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
.Stephens. \V. H., e. Feb. 7. '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
.^uyder. R. D.. e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Teach, W. W., e. Feb. 7,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Triplet, T., e, Feb. 14,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Turner, John, e. Feb. 8,'65. m. o. Jan. 24. '65.
Waddle, D.. e. Feb. 7. '65, ni. o. Jan. 24. '66.
Wright, J., e. Feb. 7, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Zuck, J. N.. e. Feb, 7,'65, m^o. Jan. •24.'66.
COrPANY c.
S(rgeants.
M. \'. Royd, e. Feb. 17,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
J. H. Thompson, e. Feb. 15,'6o, m. o. .fan. 24.'6t>
Privates.
Castello, J. H., e. Feb. 17,'65.
Choekey, Benj., e. Feb. 17,'6o.
Estes, A. P.. e. Feb. 17,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Hagan, R. B., e. Feb. 17. '65, died Feb. 28. '65.
Riggs, John, e. Feb. 14.'65.
Ross, N., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
co>rp.\>ri' 1).
Captain.
Isaiic David, e. Feb. '21, '65, ni. u. Jan. 24, '66.
First Lieutenants.
J. M. Yarnell. e. Feb. 18.'65. d. June20.'65.
Carithers Zoll, e. Feb. 18,'65, m. <>. Jan. 24, '66.
Second Lieutenant.
.1. -M. Lang.ston. e. Feb. 18.'65. m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
Sergeants.
A. H. Lewis, e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
S. R. Musgrove, e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
B. .9. Brick, e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
H. B. Hill, e. Feb. 12,'6.5, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
R. C. Vail, e. Feb. 15,'6.5, m. o. Jan. 24.'66.
CorporaU.
\\. S. Reesor, e. Feb. 12,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
B. M. Kingerj-, e. Feb. 15, '65. m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
I. X. Elliott, e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
J. J. Coursey, e. Feb. 13,'65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
C. Dennis, e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24.'66.
T. R. Branson, e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
T. H. Barnes, e. Feb. 12,'65, ni. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Robert Fellon, e. Feb. 15, '65. m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
John Nelson, e. Feb. 17,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Mu9ician.<.
H. A. Yarnell, e. Feb. 12,'65, ni. o. Jan. 24, '66.
J. C. Dobbins, e. Feb. 15,'6.5, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Wagona'.
John Jones, e. Feb. 15, '65, ni. o. Aug. 22,'66.
Privaies.
Arindale, J., e. Feb. 13, '65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
Angel, Jacob, e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Adams, A., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
Allison, D. W., e. Feb. 15,'65, died July 15, '65.
Allison, J. R., e. Feb. 15,'65.
Anderson, S., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Adams, G., e. Feb. 17, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Babcock, C, e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Berry, W.. e. Feb. 12, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Bateson, L., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Barnes. I., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Bateson. A., e. Feb. 15, '65, m.o. Aug. 11, '65.
Biass, J., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. '24. '66.
Carney, John. e. Feb. 12, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Culven', Thos., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
Clark. John, e. Feb. 15, '65.
Crouch, John, e. Feb. 15,'65, died Mar. 14,'65.
Cunningham, S., e. Feb. 15, '65, died April
21, '65.
Collier. Wm., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Elliott, Joseph, e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Finley, J., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Fleming. J., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Fleming, S., e. Feb. 15,'65, died April 15, '65.
Fleming, Alex,, e. Feb. 12,'6o, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Gassaway, A., e. Feb. 15. '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Cfould, J. C, e, Feb. 18,'65. m. o. Jan. 24,'(3<i.
Gngsby, C. E., e. Feb. 12, '65, died June 24,'65.
Gibbius. A., e. Feb. 12, '65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
Gilchrist, V., e. Feb. 15,'65m.o. Jan. 24, '66.
(ireen. Geo., e. Feb. 14, '65.
Hott'man, W. M.,e. Feb. 12,'6,5, m.o. Jan. 24,'66.
Hughes, I. M., e. Feb. 15, '65. m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Uanna. F., e. Feb. 15, '65. m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Hall, Noah, e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. '24, '66.
Hunt, D. H.. c. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Hughes, L. W., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Harper, C. H.. e. Feb. 12,'55, m. o. Jan. •il,'66.
Howell, John, e. Feb. 15,'65. m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Hemenover, D.C.. e. Feb. 9,'65, m.o. Aug. 18,'65.
Howell, N., e. Feb. 16,'65 m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Ingram, Jas., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Kelso, John, e. Feb. 12, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Lindsey, Amos, e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24.'66.
McLouth, S., e. Feb. 17,'65, m. o. .Ian. 24, '65.
Mathews, W. B., o. Feb. 15,'65, died July 10, '65.
McMuUen. J. L.. e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Moranville, P., e. Feb. 12,'6.5. m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Neil, T. H., e. Feb. 1.5,'65. m. o. ,Jan, 24,'66.
Norman, Samuel H., e. Feb. 15, '6.5, d.
Parkinson, J., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Powell, J., e. Feb. 12.'65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Pierce. John. e. Feb. 12, '65.
Phillips. S. R., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24.'66.
Priehard, J. E.. e. Feb. 12,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Pippit, J. E., e. Feb. 12,'6;5, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Rilev, John, e. Feb. 17, '65.
Salkcld. S. H., e. Feb. ]5,'65, died May 2,'65.
i^tracker, J., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Skelly, J. J., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 17,'66.
Shields. M., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Steel. J., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Stafford, G. H., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Thompson, J. S., e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Jan.
24,'66.
Thompson, I., Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Todd. J. N., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Talcot. Vice. e. Feb. 12,'65, m. o. Julv 22,'65.
Wilson. H., e. Feb. 14,'65, m. o. .Sept. 8,'6.5.
Wilkins, J. W., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'65.
Wilkins, Wm., e. Feb. 15.'65. m. o. June 13,'65.
White, J. C, e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. .Tan. 24.'66.
White, S. J., e. Feb. 1.5,'65, m. o. Jan. 24.'66.
Winehel, H., e. Feb. 12,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Williams, W.. e. Feb. 17, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Wvant, A., e. Feb. 15,'()5, m. o. Jan. '24. '6)6.
Warfield, Z.. e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Jan. 24. '66.
Corcoran, Robt.. e. Feb. ]5,'65, Co. H.
COMPAXY K.
Sergeants.
S. J. Winston, e. Feb. 13,'66, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
A. B. Wagoner, e. Feb. 7,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
J. M. Reno, e. Feb. 13,'65, m. o. Jan. 24.'66.
C. C. Merrill, c. Feb. 13,'6.5, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
887
Corporals.
11. F. Tate, e. Feb. 7,'63, m. o. Jan. 24,'6Ci.
.(. Lehleiter, e. Fel). 14,'fi5, m. o. Jan. 24,'(3<;.
Wagoner.
John Thorp, e. Feb. 7,'6.5, m. o. Jan. 24,'GO.
Privates.
Black. Abraham, e. Feb. 7, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, 'OG.
Bell, C. H., e. Feb. I7,.'65. m. o. Sept. 19, '(!.').
Bell, Thos., e. Feli. 10,'6o.
C'ook, .lames, e. Fel). 12, '6.5. m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Corbridge, W. H., e. Feb. 13.'65, m. o. Jan.
2.5,'66.
Foster, J. B., e. Feb. 14.'6.5, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
(ireen, J. 11., e. Feb. 13, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Harvev, J. W., e. Feb. 12,'65, m. o. Jan. '66.
Harvert, J., e. Feb. 13, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Hall, C. C, e. Feb. 16,'65.
Jordan, T. F., Feb. 7,'65, m. o. Jan. 24,'66.
Johnson, \V., e. Fel). 16, '65.
Lovell, David, e. Feb. 13, '65, died April 6, '65.
McQueen, N., e. Feb. 10,'65, m. o. Jan. 24, '65.
Melvin, J. J., e. Feb. 14, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '65.
Mitchell, C. A., e. Feb. 13,'65, m. o. ,Ian. 24, '65.
Nichols, G. F., e. Feb. 7, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '65.
Phillips, Wm., e. Feb. 13, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Spangler, L. O., e. Feb. 7, '65, died at Quincv,
111.
Severns, I., e. Feb. 13, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Sipes, A. W., e. Feb. 7, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
Shoup, S. J., e. Feb. 17, '65, m. o. Jan. 24, '66.
V'ogle, Jacob, e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Woods, Augustus, e. Feb. 16, '65.
White, A. H., e. Feb. 15,'6.5.
153d REGIMENT.
COMPANY H.
Corporal.
1). Adams, e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Privafcs.
Adams, John, e. Feb. 15, '65, m. o. July 22, '65.
Bailev, Homer, e. Feb. 6, '65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Collins, T., 0. Fel). 15,'fi5, m. o. Sept. 21, '6.5.
Cooper, J. J., e. Feb. 6,'65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Doolittle, B. W., e. Feb. 6, '65, m. o. May '25, '65.
Ellis, J., e. Feb. 6.'65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Joslin, 1. B., e. Feb. 6,'65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Kissack, T., e. Feb. 4,'65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Kinney, N., e. Feb. 6, '65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Lindsay, D. L., e. Feb, 6, '65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
Shinn, J., e. Feb. 15,'65, m. o. Sept. 21, '65.
l.^otli REGIMENT.
COMPANY O.
Sergeant.
Clias. Wilson, e. Feb. 22, '65, m. o. Sept. 4, '65.
Privates.
Barron, D., Feb. 20,'65, m. o. Sept. 4,'65.
Duley, W. H., Feb. 22,'65, m. o. Sept. 4.'65.
Hoft'ner, A., e. Feb. 22,'65, m. o. Sept. 4, '65.
Jennings, G. G., e. Feb. 23, '65, m. o. June 8, '65.
Lane, M., e. Feb. 22, '65, m. o. Sept. 4, '65.
Mitchell, W. F.. e. Feb. 23,'65, m. o. Sept. 4,'65.
More, Lewis, e. Feb. '22, '65, m. o. Sept. 4, '65.
Maxwell, S., e. Feb. 22, '65, m. o. Sept. 4, '65.
Felkel, G. W., e. Feb. 21, '65, in Co. K.
Stone, Samuel, e. Feb. 21, '65, in Co. K.
2tl CAVALRY.
COMPAJVY C.
Corporal.
W. F. Bailey, e. July 3,'61, m. o. Aug. 11, '64.
Saddler.
J. Allison, e. July 3/61, d. May 21, '62.
Privates.
Beeman, W., e. July 3,'61, d. Nov. 16,'62, dis.
Crail, James M., e. July 3, '61.
Paull, Jeremiah, e. July 3, '61.
Smith, R. W.. July 31, '61, trans, to gunboat.
Warner, W. H,, e.'jnlv 31,'61, d. Oct. 20.'62.
Westcrfleld, B., e. July 31, '61, v.
Bennett, Ira, e. Dec. 25, '61.
Bennett, Ira, e. Feb. 17, '64, m. o. Nov. 22, '65.
Randolph, A. J., e. Dec. 25,'61, died Sept. 22,'63.
Wright, W. T., e. Feb. 26,'64, m. o. Nov. 22,'65.
Winchel, A., e. Feb. 23,'64 drowned Sept. 12,'64.
Simmerel, Allen, e. Aug. 6, '61, in Co. H.
COMPANY M.
Corporal.
Wm. Stevens, e. Dec. 12, '61, m. o. June 9, '65.
Privates.
Crawford, J. A., e. Dec. 9,'61, v., d. Jan. 21, '65.
Willison, J. S., e. Dec. 7, '61, m. o. Jan. 9, '65.
Stull, H. R., e. Nov. 2S,'61, m. o. Jan. 9,'C)5.
3d CAVALRY
Was organized at Camp Butler August, 1861.
Sept. 25 moved to St. Louis, Mo. Oct. 1 to Jef-
ferson City, thence to Warsaw, arriraig Oct.
11, and the 22d marched to Springfield, Mo.
Feb. 13 it fought the first engagement, and
won the first victory of Curtis' campaign. Feb.
14, '62, occupied Springfield, Mo.; 15th came
up with Price's retreating army, capturing
some prisoners; 18th, participated in a charge,
routing the enemy, at Sugar Creek, Ark. ; 20th
marched to Cross Hollows ; March 5 fell back
to Pea Ridge ; was engaged on the 7th and lost
10 killed and 40 wounded; ]9th moved to
Keetsville; April 10 arrived at Forsyth; 29th
moved to West Plains; May 1st started for
Batesville; 14th moved to Little Red River.
June 4 fell back to Fairview ; on the 7th Capt.
Sparks with 66 men was surrounded by 200 of
the enemy, lie cut his way out, losing 4 wound-
ed and 4pri.soners; June 11 to Jacksonport:
July 5 to Helena, and moved to Memphis in
the spring of 1863. They took part in the bat-
tles of Port Gibson, Champion Hills, Black
River Bridge, and siege of Vicksburg; also
Vermillionville, Opelousas and Carrion Crow-
Bayou; participated in battles of Tupelo,
Okolona and Gun town. Aug. 21 it took part
in repulsing Cien. Forrest's attack on Memphis.
Took part in the battles of Lawrenceburg,
Spring Hill, Campbellsville and Franklin. In
May moved to St. Louis, thence to St. Paul,
Minn. July 4 started on an Indian expedition.
Returned to Springfield, 111., Oct. 13, '65. and
was mustered out of service.
Lieutenant- Colonel.
A. B. Kirkbride, e. Sept. 21,'61 as 2d Lieut.,
pro. 1st Lieut. Dec. 31, '61; Capt. May 12.
'62; Major April 29,'65; Lieut.-Col. July 1,
'65: ni. o. Oct. 10,'65.
COMPANY H.
Captains.
K.d. Rutledge, e. Sept. 21,'61, res. Dec. .31,'61.
T. G. McClelland, e. Sept. 21,'61, as 1st Lieut.,
pro. Capt. Dec. 31,'61, died May 11, '62.
388
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY,
First Lieutenant.
G. H. Horton, e. Aug. 12, '61, assergt., pro. 2d
Lieut. Dec. 31, '61; 1st Lieut. May 12,'62:
res. May 22, 'C5.
Second Lieutenants.
W. A. Kirkpatrick, e. Aug. 13, '61, died Jan.
7,'63.
R. G. Zimmerman, e. Aug. 13, '61, m. o. Sept.
5, '64.
Sergeant.
J. C. McClelland, e. Aug. 13, '61.
Corporals.
J. M. Onion, e. Aug. 18, '61, v., pro. sergt., then
1st Lieut.
E. Thompson, e. Aug. 13, '61.
Noah Rawley, e. Aug. 13, '61, d.
\V. Laniprell, e. Aug. 13,'61, d. July 30,'62, dls.
J. M. Dobsou, e. Aug. 13, '61.
Bugler.
C. Galliher, e. Aug. 13,'61, v., pro. 1st Lieut.
Co. I.
Farrier.
Randall Black, e. Sept. 22,'61.
Blacksmith.
J. V. Dobson, e. Sept. 22,'61, m. o. Sept. 5,'64.
Wagoner.
G. Thornburg, e. Aug. 13, '61, v., m. o. Oct.
10, '65.
Privates.
Bias. Joseph, e. Aug. 13,'61, v., m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Barnes, W. P., e. Aug. ]3,'61, died at St. Louis.
Barnes, Robt.. e. Sept. 6, '61. v., m. o. Oct. 10, '65.
Breeden, B. G., e. Aug. 13,'61.
Detrick, \V. X., e. Aug. 13, '61, v., m. o. Oct.
]0,'65.
Hughes, N. P.. e. Aug. 13, '61.
Henderson, H. H., e. Sept. 21, 'Gl.
Kingery, W. H., e. Aug. 13,'01, v., pro. sergt.,
then 2d Lieut.
Lamprell, Tlios.. e. Aug. 13,'61.
McNeil, Joseph, e. Aug. 2.S,'61.
McBride, Alex., e. Aug. 13,'61, d. April 12,'62,
dis.
Roberts, Garrett, e. Aug. 13,'61, d. for dis.
Turner, J. S., e. Aug. 13,'61, d. for dis.
Atkinson, P., e. Feb. 22,'64, m. o. Oct. 10,'C5.
Bias, J., e. Aug. 13,'61, died Sept. 30,'62.
Stockvvell, J., e. Mar. 10,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
COMPAN1- I.
Quartermaster Sergeant.
J. C. Phillips, e. Mar. 10,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Commissary Sergeant.
3. McNeil, e. Mar. 9,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Sergeants.
T. T. Barron, e. Mar. 10,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
A. B. Bryan, e. Mar. 3, '65, m. o. Oct. 10, '65.
Corporals.
E. Harbert, e. Mar. 15, '65, m. o. Oct. 10, '65.
B. A. Swisher, e. Mar. 3,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Privates.
Barnes, James, e. Mar. 15, '65, m. o. Oct. 10, '65.
Gorsage, G. R., e. Mar. 3,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Kindred, Geo., o. Mar. 10,'65.
Mahan, M., e. Mar. 9,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Perkins, H., e. Mar. 10,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Robert, J. W., e. Mar. 15,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Shields, J. W., e. Mar. 9,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Settles, G., e. Mar. 15,'65, m. o. Oct. 10,'65.
Towns, L., e. Mar. 9,'65. ra o. Oct. 10,'65.
Beaman, J., e. April 4, '65. in Co. K.
Bohle, Andrew V,, e. Mar. 9,'65, in Co. K.
Leonard, Levi, e. Mar. 4, '65, in Co. K.
Sloate, A. W., e. Mar. 15, '65, in Co. K.
Bradford, J., e. Feb. 1,'64. in Co. E, 5th Cav.
Mathews, M., e. April 28,'64, in Co. E, 5th CaV
1st Lieut. J. J. Adams, e. Oct. 12,'61, in Co. E'
5th Cav.
7tli CAVALRY.
Colonel.
William Pitt Kellogg, e. Sept. 8, '61, res. June
1,'62.
Major.
H. C. Nelson, e. Aug. 20,'61, res. June 22,'63.
Adjutants.
S. Stockdale, e. Jan. 30, '62, m. o. May 24, '62.
A. W. Head, e. Oct. 1,'61, m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Galleutine, \V. P., e. Aug. 10,'61, in Co. D, 7th
Cav.
Gallentine, C. W., e. Aug. 10,'61. in Co. D, 7th
Cav., died Feb. 22,'64, wnds.
COMPANY K.
Captain.
J. P. Herring, e. Aug. 20,'61, m. o. Nov. 4, '64.
First Lieutenant.
J. \V. Maxwell, e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Nov. 30,'64.
Second Lieutenant.
A. B. Hulit, e. Aug. 20,'61, res. April 24,'62.
First Sergeant.
P. Slaughter, e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Quartermaster Sergeant.
P. M. Binnix, e. Aug. 24, '61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Sergeants.
G. B. Baylor, e. Aug. 24, '61, d. Mar. 26, '63,
wnds.
L. G. Hamlin, e. Aug. 24, '61, pro. com. sorgt.
A. Garabrant, e. Aug. 24,'6l, died Jan. 15,'64,
while pris. of war at Richmond, Va.
Corpiorals.
J. Carlton, e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
.;. Seerj-, e. Aug. 24, '61, d. Jan. 2, '63, dis.
J. M. Pallison, e. Aug. •24,'61, m. o. May 15,'65,
pris. war.
J. Shriner, e. .\ug. 24,'61, v. pro. 2d Lieut., then
1st Lieut., m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
B. Kimble, e. Aug. 24, '61, v. m. o. Nov. 4,'65,
sergt.
D. B. Spencer, e. Aug. 24, '61, v. pro. com. sergt.
m. o. Nov. 4. '65.
J. Coykendall, e. Aug. 24, '61, died Mar. 6,'62.
E. Weed, e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Bugler.
T. J. Ellis, e. Aug. 24, '61, m. o. Oct. 15, '64.
Farrier.
J. Anton, e. Aug. 24, '61, d. April 1,'63, dis.
Saddler.
P. Small, e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Privates.
Anderson, Eric, e. Aug. 24,'61, d. April 7,'63,
dis.
Arrindale, T., e. Aug.24,'61, v. m. o. Nov. 4,'65.
Ball, Henrv, e. Aug. 24, '61, died of wnds. Oct.
13, '63.
Bell, W. P., e. .\ug. 24, '61, v. m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Berkshire, J. H., e. Aug. 24, '61, m. o. Oct.
1.5, '64.
Clinton, B., e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Cockrill, M., e. Aug. 24,'61, kid. Mar. 23,'62.
Deford, T., e. .\ug. 24,'61, d. June 4, '62, dis.
Drake, J. M., e. Aug. 24,'61, v. m. o. Nov. 4,'65.
Fitch, G. L., e. Aug. 24,'61, died of wnds. June
3, '63.
Fillingham, J. F., e. Aug. 24, '61, v. m. o. Nov.
4, '65, sergt.
Floyd, J. W., e. Aug. 24,'61, v. m. o. Nov. 4,'65.
Freemale, Geo., e. Aug. 24, '61, v. m. o. Nov, 4,
'65, sergt.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
389
Fuller, B., e. Aug. 24,'61, d. April 1,'63, dis.
Greenslit, E., e. Aug. •24,'6, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Hall, J. D., e. Aug. 24, '01, d. June 14, '62, dis.
Handlev, W. H., e. Aug. 24, '61, m. o. Oct. 15, '64.
Hamil, D. A., e. Aug. 24, '61, ra. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Harper, J., e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'G4,
eorpl.
Harper, John, e. Aug. 24, 'Gl, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Head, J. G., e, Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64,
Q. iM. sergt.
Hesch, Peter, e. Aug. 24.'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Hill, G. H., e. Aug, 24,'61, m. o. Nov. 2,'64.
Hornig, Thos., e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Hornstein, J. G., e. Aug. 24, '61, m. o. Sept.
]0,'64.
Hopgood, T. J., e. Aug. 24,'61, died June 30,'62.
Jayne, Henry, e. Aug. 24, '61, pro. 2d Lieut.
Johnston, J. P., e. Aug. 24, '61, m. o. Oct. 15, '64.
Knot, J. N., e. Aug. 24,'61, d. Sept. 27,'62, dis.
Malony, J. B., e. Aug. 24,'61, d. Nov. 27,'62,
dis.
Mes-sler, N. R., e. Aug. 24, '61, m. o. Oct. 15, '64.
Metcalf, Thos., e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
McMillen, W., e. Aug. 24.'61, died Jan. 20,'62.
Moran, G. W., e. Aug. 24, '61, died Jan. 22,'64.
Netf, J. B., e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. ]5,'64.
Reiteh, Alex., e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Wellington, H., e. Mar. 22,'6."i, m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Webster, J. H., e. Feb. 12,'64, m. o. Nov. 4,'65,
eorpl.
Rankin, E. M., e. Aug. 2-1,'Gl, m. o. Apail 12,
'65, pris. war.
Roberts, Wm., e. Aug. 24. '61, v. pro. 2d Lieut.,
ra. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Robinson, H., e. Aug. 24, '61, v. ra. o. Nov. 4,'65,
sergt.
Robinson, J., e. Aug. 24, '61, missed in action.
R)oks, E., e. Aug. 2i,'61, v. ra. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Rosin, Levi, e. Aug. 24,'61, died May 20.'62.
Riegel, Jacob, e. Aug. 24, '61, v. m. o. Nov. 4,'65.
Sanders, H. C, e. Aug. 24,'61, ra. o. Oct. ]5,'64.
Shackelford, J. B., e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Oct.
15,'64.
Spencer, J., e. Aug. 24, '61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Stevenson, E., e. Aug. 24, '61, d. Feb. 5, '63, dis.
Stevenson, T., e. Aug. 24,'6l, ra. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Stickler, J., e. Aug. 24, '01, v. m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Switzer, J., e. Aug. 24,'01, died Jan. 19,'C2.
Traphagen, P. S., e. Aug. 24, '61.
Varner, W. P., e. Aug. 24.'61, v. ra. o. Nov.
4,'65.
Wilcox, Alex. W., e. Aug. 24,'61, m. o. Feb. 15,
'65, pris. war.
Wyckoff, W. P., e. Aug. 24,'61, died of wnds.
June 22,'6.3.
Wilson, J., e. Aug. 24, '61, pris. war.
Ball, David, e. Dec. 20,'03, m. o. July 17,'65,
pris. war.
Bagley, H. C, e. Mar. 16,'64, ra. o. Sept. 25,'65.
Clutts, B. F. J., e. Mar. 16,'04, m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Corwin, E. H., e. Mar. 28, '64, m. o. Nov. 4, '65,
eorpl.
Fogg, D. W., e. Mar. 9, '65, m. o. Nov. 4, '65,
eorpl.
Hale, J. J., e. Mar. 3,'63, m. o. Nov. 4,'65.
Harper, Tho.s., e. Mar. 22,'64, m. o. Nov. 4,'65.
Laraaster, H. C, e. Feb, 22,'64, pris. war, died
about June 1,'65.
Porter, H. G., e. Mar. 14, '64, m. o. Nov. 4, '65,
eorpl.
Pitman, R. E., e. Mar. 17, '64, m. o. S«»pt. 25,'65.
Roberts, A., e. Feb. 10, '65. m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Shriner, G. W., e. Mar. 22,'65, ra. o. Nov. 4,'65.
Titus, G. W., e. Jan. 23,'64, m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Wolfe, G. S., e. /an. 20,'64, m. o. Nov. 4,'65.
COMPANY L.
Privates.
Albaugh, S. D., e. Sept. 1,'61, m. o. Sept .27,'64.
Ca.se, J. H., e. Sept. 1,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64,
sergt.
Davis, F., e. Sept. 1/61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64, eorpl.
Huffman, Wm., e. Sept. 1,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64,
eorpl.
Harris, W. R., e. Sept. 1,'61, d. Mar. 3,'62, dis.
Post, G. R., e. Sept. 1,'61, died at Anderson-
ville prison, Sept. 20,'64, No. of grave 9602.
Powelson, S. P., e. Sept. 1,'64, m. o. Sept.
27, '64.
Rogers, D. G., e. Sept. 1,'61, v. m. o. Nov. 5,'65.
Waters, E., e. Sept. 1,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'04.
Atkinson, Alex. P., e. Nov. 2, '61, m. o. Oct.
15,'64.
Barnes, A. L., e. Mar. 3,'65, m. o. Nov. 4, '65.
Daley, Geo., e. Nov. 2, '61.
Horii, Conrad, e. Mar. 1,'65, died May 4, '65.
Lindsay, J. J., e. Nov. 2,'61, m. o. Sept. 2,'64,
wnds.
McMiens, D.,e. Feb. 4,'64, m. o. Nov. 4,'65.
Patton, J., e. Nov. 2,'61, m. o. Oct. 15,'64.
Blates, G., e. Mar. 2U,'65, d. May 31, '65.
Bates, G. W., e. Jan. 4, '64, died Mar. 4, '64.
Bums, A. L., e. Mar, 3, '65.
Ford, Levi, e. Dec. 26,'63, died.
Drury, W. E., e. Feb. 8,'65, Co. E, 9th Cav.
Jeflerson, J., e. Feb. 8,'65, Co. E, 9th Cav.
Roop, Wm., e. Oct. 6,'61, Co. K, 9ih Cav.
Harkness, E., e. Dee. 12,'61, Co. L, 9lhCav.,pro.
2d Lieu I.
Downing, P., e. Jan. 8, '64, m. o. Nov. 22, '65.
llth CALVARY.
This regiment was recruited in the fall and
winter of 1801, and reported at Camp Mather,
Peoria. The regiment left for the field Feb-
ruary 22, 1862, and participated in the battle
of Shiloh. After the evacuation of Corinlh,
the regiment was a.ssigned by detachments to
service between that place and Memphis;
was engaged at Lexington, December
18, 1862, when 46 of their number, with
the Colonel, fell into the hands of
the enemy. The regiment remained in
West Tennessee till September, 1863, doing
good work among the guerrillas. After this
they operated in the country between the Big
Black and Pearl rivers, and on the Yazoo, ren-
dering that country untenable for the John-
nies. The regiment veteranized in December,
1864. They participated in Sherman's grand
march through Mississippi. During the sum-
mer of 1864, they were in many skirmishes
and raids. November and December were with
General Osborne, in the raid against the Mis-
sissippi Central Railroad; reached Vicksburg
on December 5; moved to Memphis in Jan-
uary, 1865; joined in Grierson's raid; was en-
gaged at Egypt Station; after this raided in
Arkansas and Loui-siana, and did guard duty
on the Memphis & Charleston Railroad. It
was mustered out at Memphis, Tenn., Septem-
ber 3(Jth, and arrived at Peoria October 12,
1865.
COMPANY A.
Major.
D. J. Waggoner, e. Oct. 25,'61, res. June 5,'63.
Sergeant.
Jacob Miller, e. Oct. 8.'61, v. m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Privates.
Blodgett, Geo., e. Feb. 22,'65, m. o. Sept. .30,'65.
Howard, A., e. Feb. 24,'65, died April 28,'65.
590
HISTORY OF FULTOX COrXTY.
Ringland, M., e. Mar. 15,'65, m. o. Sept. 30,'6.5.
Shaw, Xoah. e. March 9,'ti.5, m. o. July 14, '&5.
Turner, J., e. Feb. 22,'65, m. o. July l-i.'tio.
Vandershot, A. L., e. March 1, '6-5, m. o. Sept.
30, '6-5.
AVilliams, J., e. Mar. 10,'6.5, m. o. Sept. 30^'G5.
Williams, James, e. Feb. 22. '65.
William.'!, Z., e. Mar. 9,'6.i, m. o. July 14. 'iw.
COMPANY B.
Captain.
S. C. Burbridge, e. Dec. 20,'61, pro. Major, m. o.
Dee. iy,'W.
First Lieutenant.
F. C. Worden, e. Dec. 20,'61, res. May23,'G2.
S(Xond Lieutenant.
C. L. Bancroft, e. Dec. 20,'61, pro. m. o. Sept.
30. 'Co.
Sergeants.
G.W. Hunter, e. Sept. 7,'61. pro. 2d Lieut., then
Capt., then Maj., m. o. Sept. 30,'6.5.
P. Saine, e. Sept. 4,'61, d. '(H, dis.
A. W. Dunn, e. Sept. 4, '61. v. pro. 1st Lieut.,
then Capt., m. o. Sept. 30, '6.5.
AV. B. Schall, e. Sept. 21, '61, m. o. Dec. 19,'64.
A. E. Montf;omer\-. e. Sept. 7.'61. v. m. o. Sept.
30, '65.
Corporals.
J. S. Dunmire, e. Sept. 5,'61, v., died of wnds.,
Mar. 1,'64.
M. V. B. Goshen, e. Aug. 31, "61, v. m. o. Sept.
30,'6.5.
DeW. C. Hunt, e. Sept. 7,'61. died Oct. 15,'62.
L. P. Richards, e. Sept. 7,'61. d. Oct. 7.'62, dis.
J. Gregg, e. Sept. 7, '61.
Bugler.
J. Woodrufl; e. Sept. 7,'61.
Farrier.
3. B. Shinn, e. Sept. 24,'61, v., pro. vet. surg.
Blacksmith.
E. O. Capp. e. Sept. 5,'61, d. Dec. 24,'62, wnds.
Wagoyier.
G. H. Pancake, e. Sept. 7,'61, d. July i5,'62, dis.
Privates.
Brown, A. V., e. Sept. 7, '61, v. m.o. Sept. .30, "65.
Brown, E., e. Oct. 14,'61, m. o. Dec. 19,'64.
Brown, M. L., e. Nov. 24, '61, m. o. Dec. 19,'64.
Burbridge, D., e. Sept. 5, '61.
Butler, VVm., e. Sept. 3,'61, d. May 18,'62, dis.
Beard, Thos., e. Sept. 7,'61, v. m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Bishop, Geo., e. Nov. 2,'61, m. o. Dec. 19,'64.
Carman, J., e. Sept. 9,'61.
Crawl. W., e. Sept. 3,'61, d. Aug. 31, '62, dis.
Cunningham, J. H., e. Sept. 17. '61.
Cullison, N. C, e. Sept. 23,'61. died April — '62.
Capps, J. H.. e. Oct. 15,'61, died June — '62.
Calvert. D. M., e. Aug. 31,'61, v. m. o. Sept.
30, '65.
Dixon, J., e. Sept. 17,'61,v. m. o. Sept. 30,'6.5.
French, E., e. Nov. 9,'61, v. m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Grav.son, J., e. Sept. 4,'61, d. June — '62.
Hall, W. N., e. Sept. 5,'61, v. m. o. Sept. 30,"65.
Hirst. D. J., e. .Sept. 7,'61, d. Dec. 19.'64.
Hilligoss, \V. H., e. Sept. 25,'61.
Hilligoss, E. G., e. Nov. 4,'61.
Jackson, J., e. Sept. 9,'61, v. m. o. Sept. 30.'65.
Keel, P. E., e. Sept. 9,'61, v. m. o. .Sept. .30,'65.
Kelly. Robt.. e. Sept.l7.'61, m. o. Dec. 19,'64.
Lefler, Geo., e. Sept. 2,'61, v. m. o. Sept. .30,'65,
sergt.
Lambert, O. P., e. Dec. 3,'61, v. m. o. July 21,
'65, corpl.
McLane, Alex., e. Sept. 7, "01, v. m. o. Sept. 30,
'65, corpl.
McKiuney, J., e. Sept. 7,'61. d. July — 'C2, dis.
Meeks. J. H., e. Aug. 31, '61, v. pro. sergt., then
2d Lieut, and 1st Lieut., m. o. Sept. 30.'65.
McCoy, Hugh, e. Sept. 4,'61, v. m. o. Sept. 30,
'65, sergt.
McKeigham, Wm., e. Sept. 26,'61. d. July —'62.
dis.
Munhall, T. T., e. Sept. 9,'61, v. pro. sergt.,
then 2d Lieut., then Capt. Co. D., m. o.
Sept. 30, '65.
Oliver. J., e. Nov. 9,'61, v. m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Proctor, J., e. Sept. 9,'61.
Pettit. H. R., c. Oct. 8,'61, d. Aug. .31, '62, dis.
Pardun, J. R., e. Sept. 3,'61, v. d. Aug. 4,"65.
Phillips, J., e. Dec. 11. '61. died Mav 30,'62.
Randall. J., e. Sept. 4, 61, died.
Sanford. M., e. Sept. 4, "61, m. o. Dec. 17,'64.
Stokoe, J., e. Sept. 5."61, d. Julv 11, '62, dis.
Thatcher, J., e. Sept. 9,'61, died Aug. 11, '62.
Tanner, H., e. Sept. 5,'61, died Oct. 10, '62.
Tunks, Benj., e. Sept. 7,'61, died July 2,'62.
Venable, C, e. Dec. 14, '61, v. m. o. Sept. 30,
'65, sergt.
Westbv, Wm., e. Sept. 12,'61. v. m. o. Sept. 30,
•6.5".
Westbv. J. C. e. Sept. 12,'61, v. m. o. Sept.
30."'65.
Welch. E., Nov. 12,61, v. m. o. Sept. :50.'65.
Bostwick, AV. E.. e. Dec. 21, '63, m. o. Sept.
30. "65.
Baker. M.. e. Mar. 24, '64, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Brvan Q. V., e. Mar. 25. '64, m. o. Sept. 30,'6o.
Bostwick, G. H.. e. Jan. 18.'64. kid. Aug. 1.5,'&">.
Bird, S., e. Feb. 19,'62, died Feb. '63.
Cole. J. S., e. Dec. 11, '63, m. o. Sept. 30,'6.5.
ColUngs, H. W., e. Dec. 1,'63. m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Cunningham. T. H.. e. Mar. 15, '64.
Crou.se, D. W.. e. Dec. 1,'63, m. o. June 16,"65,
pris. war.
Dalton. A., e. Dec. 17.'6:3, m. o. Sept. 26."65.
Erford. G. D., e. Mar. 14 "64, m. o. Sept. 30,"65.
Frank. M. K., e. Mar. 31, '64, m. o. .Sept. 30.'6.5.
Ficklin. Wm.. e. Dec. 11, "63. died of wnds.
April 10, '64.
Glass, W. L., e. Mar. 31. '64, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Hunter. W. T.. e. Dec. 19, '63, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Harper, R., e. Dec. 11, "63, m. o. Sept. 30, '65.
Holfman, P. P., e. Mar. 28,'64, m. o. Sept.
30,'f>5.
Jordan, J. C, e. Jan. 26,'64, m. o. Sept. 30,'6o.
Kenyon, Benj.. e. Jan. 16,'64. died Sept. 11, '6.5.
Kerr, L. e. Aug. 15, '62, d. Nov. 17, "62.
Lefler, S., e. Feb. 2, "65, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Lance, J. W., e. Mar. 26."(>1, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Lee. J., e. Mar. 28."64, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
McClure, H. S.. e. Mar. •2S,"64, m. o. Sept. 30,'6j.
Miller. Amos. e. Dec. 17, '63, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Miller. A., e. Dec. 26,'63, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Morse, M., e. Dec. 26, '63, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Morse, H. D., e. Mar. 28.'64, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Montgomery," J. S.. e. Jan. 1,'64, m. o. Sept.
26, '6.5.
McCann, A., e. Jan. 21, '64, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Morton, J. M., e. Mar. 26.'64, m. o. Sept. 30,'6.5.
Phillips, E.. e. Mar. 28."64, m. o. Sept. 30,65.
Pavne, J. N.. e. Dec. 29,"63, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Powell, \V.. e. Jan. 14.'64. ra. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Pancake, D. C. e. Dec. 21, '63. ra. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Starr, J., e. Mar. 28.'64, m. o. Sept. 30,'6.5.
Thomas. A. O., e. Dec. 1,"63, m. o. Sept. 30,'6.3.
Taylor. Alex, e. Dec. 26,'64, m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Taggett, J. W.. e. Dec. 17,'G3. died July 18,'64.
Winn, J., e. Jan. 4,'i>4, ra. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Westbv, W. H., e. Mar. 31.'64,ra. o. Sept. 30,'6.5.
Wilson, Wm., e. Mar. 25, "64.
Williams, J., e. Sept. 2,'61, ra. o. Sept. 30."6.5.
Wooden, J. L., e. Feb. 24. '62. m. o. Sept. 30,'65.
Clavberg, P., e. Mar. 8,'65, ra. o. July 15."65.
Harnish, W. A. C, e. Mar. 8,'65, m. o. Sept.
30, '65.
Kent, E. Y.. e. Mar. 8,'a5, m. o. July 15,'6;j.
COMPANY ti.
Captain.
J. R. Covkendall. e. Dec. 20,'61,res. Feb. 16,'63.
IIISTOKV OF PTTLTOX COUNTY
391
First lAeutenunt.
L. B. Wlllnrd, t\ Dee. 20,'(il, iv><. Miiy ■Js/d:;.
C. (!. Mathi'iiv. (_'. Oct. -l/m, v., iii. n. .Iiily 11,0.3.
Win. ('hamlxr.s, e. Oct. 4.'<il.
Corpiirith.
J. Gustin. ('. Oct. l.'CiI, v., 1)1. i>. .Uily 1 l.T).'!.
Wm. E. HaiiR'.-;. c. Nov. I.'iil, \.. in. o. .July
14, T,.-,.
T. Shore*;, e. Oct. i.'ill. iii. n. July 11, T,.'!.
Privttt(v.
Brown, (i.. c. Sept. lVS.'CiI, v.. m. (i. .luly 14, 'ti.').
Boiinelt, n.. e. Oct. 4,'lU, v., ill. <■. .Inly 1 l.'O,'').
Brown, \V. H.. c. Oct. ■Jl.'r,], v..ni.(i. ,Tnly 14,0.').
Brewer, (i. W., e. Oct. iin.Til, v., m. o. .Inly 14,
'i\b, sergt.
Ilauglinian, S,, c. Xov. 1,'01, v.. m. o. .hily
14, 'O.'!.
lieadles, W. \V.. c. Ctct. 4,'i;i. v., ni. o. .Inlv
14, 'O.'-..
Connor, T., e. Oct. lit, '01. v.. 111. n. .Inly 14,'0.i.
Carter, ,1. P.. e. Oct. 19, '01, v., m. o. .Tuly 14, '05.
France, W. T., e. Xov. l."i,'01, v., ni. o. July
14,'0.'i,
(iregory, .1., e. Oct. li>,'6].
Gray, \V. O., e. Nov. 4, '01, v., m. o. .Inly 14, '0.5.
Harlow, J., e. Oct. 1,'61, v.. m. o. July 14, '05.
Harily, >-^. R. O.. o. Oct. i!.*<,'01, v., in. o. July
14,'G5.
Hannon, M., e. Oct. 7, '01, v., m. o. July 11, "05.
Jones.;, <;. \V., e. Oct. r.i,'01, v., m. o. July 14, '05.
Johnson, A. S. e. Oct. 4, '01, v., ni.o. July 14,'05.
Locke, E. M., e. Oct. 7,'01, v., m. o. July 14,'05.
Pixley, W. H., e. Oct. :^,'01, v., m.o. July 14.'05.
Pells, P. M., e. Oct. 13,'61, v., m. o. July 14.'05.
Robinson, J. \V. e. Oct. 25, '01, v., in. o. July
14, '65.
Spennv, (;,, e. Nov. 25, '01, v., m. o. Julvl4,'05.
Todd, J. W., e. Dec. S.'Ol, v., ra. o. July 14,'05.
Bauphiuan, P. S., e. Dec. 2, '01, v.. hiirned to
death during the burninj;- of Coluiuliia, S.
('., Feb. 19,'0.5.
Barber, J. B.. e. Mar. 24, '02, v., m.o. Julvl4,'05.
(lark, J. T., e. Feb. 12,'(U, m. o. Aug. 1,'05,
was pris.
PIuRhes, T.. e. Feb. 12, '04, m. o. Aug. 2.'^,'05.
Kellv, J., e. Feb. 12,'04, m. o. July 14,'e.5.
Maxwell, D., e. Feb. ,s,'04.' m. o. July 14, '05.
Johnson, M., e. Dec. 10, '03, in. o. July 14, '05.
Kreuzan, X.. e. Feb. 15, '04, died Auk. .S,'04.
Noakes, G. V., e. Dec. 10, "03, m. o. ,Iuly 14, '05.
Nelson, Thos., e. Nov. 0,'01, v., m. o. July 11,
'05, corpl.
Pixley, T.. e. Doc. 10,'03, m. o. July 14, '05.
Pearson, B. .V., e. Jan. 2,'()2, v., in. o. .Inly
14, '0.5.
Rupe, M. B., e. Doc. 10, '03, ra. o. Julv 14, '05.
Stearns, A. W., e. Dec. 10,'03, m. o. July 14. '05.
Strosnider, J. K., e. Feb. 12, '04, in. o. .lulv
14,'t',5.
Venters. A., e. Feb. 12, '04. in. o. .luly 14, '05.
Wilson, G. B., e. Dec. l(i,'03, m. o. Julv 14, '05.
Workman. J., e. Feb. 18. '04. m. o. Julv 14, '0.5.
Brant, D. S., e. Nov. 17, '01, v., Co. 1.
DeCamp, J. T., e. Nov. 15,'Gl. died Jan, 12,'04.
Tourdot, L., c. Oct. 14, '01, v., Co. I.
Dowdv, H. C, e. ,bxn. 25,'e4, Co. K, 11th cav.
Lucas, F. M., e. Mar. 2S,'tU. Co. K.
Lindsay, J. H., e. Dec. 11, '03, died Oct. 14,'04.
McKeighan, J. K., e. April '23, '64, Co. K.
Wilson, T. B., e. :Mar. 15.'05, Co. M, 11th cav.
12th CAVALRY.
Captain.
J. E. Kimberlv, e. Dee. 31, '01, C<i. A, d. Nov.
27, '02, ill liealth.
COMPANY D.
Corporal<.
J. B. AVvnn, e. Feb. 24,'61.
.\. K. Morris, e. Feb. 24, '01.
Privates.
McClean. C. W., e. Dec. 20,'61.
Mohler, A. J., e. Feb. 24, .02, v.
Morris, A. K., e. Feb. 24, '02.
McCov, M., e. Mar. 2,'02.
Stanlev, O. B.
Currier, S. G., e. Dec. 18,'63, died Feb. 12. '64.
IHivis, A., e. June 10,'62, m. o. June 13, '65.
Pvced, F. M., e. Dec. 4,'03.
Muirv, John, e. Oct. 7,'61, Co. D, 13th Cav.
Stillmau, J. R., e. Dec. 29, '03, Co. A. 14th Cav.
Haines, T. W..e. Sept. 20,'62, 14th Cav., died at
.Andersonville prison, Julv 3, '64, No. of
grave, 2,835.
\\ansell. Wm., e. Oct. 5,'62, Co. M, 14th Cav.
loth CAVALRY.
COMPANY G.
Sergeant.
A. J. Mills, e. Sept. 6,'Gl, m. o. Oct. 31, '04.
Private)'.
Crossiuan, J., e. Sept. 6,'61, m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Crossninn, 1)., e. Sept. O.'Ol, died June 25,'62.
Fowler. H. M., e. Sept. O.'Ol.m. o. Oct. .31, '04.
Howard, W. H.. e. Sept. O.'Ol, ni. o. Oct. .31, '64.
Howard, C. F., e. Sept. 6,'01, iii. o. Oct. 31, '<U.
Hearsfleld. Wm., e. Sept. 6,'01. in. o. Oct. 31, '04.
Hammond, G. W., e. Sept. O.'Ol, d. June 7, '02.
Harmon, E., e. Sept <;,'01.
Jacobs, A., e. Sept. 0,'01, d. May 21. '02.
Jayiie, G. D.. e. Sept. O.'Ol. d. July 10, '62.
Javiie, W. M., e. Sept. 6, '01, d. .Vpril 25, '02.
Mills, T. J., e. Sept. 6,'61, d. Feb. 3,'62.
Miilerts, C. H., e. Sept. 6,'61, d. July 10,'02.
McGrath, C, e. Sept. O.'Ol, m. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Nelsou. D. H., e. Sept. 0,'CI, ra. o. Oct. 31, '64.
Sizer, J., e. Sept. 6.'61, m. o. Oct. Sl.'M.
Senn. C. G.. e. Sept. 6,'01, ra. o, Oct. .31, '64.
ARTILLKRY.
Merchant. F. M.. e. Julv 28,'62, in Batterv M,
1st, trans, to V. R. C.
Ashworth, C. W., e. May 20, '01, in Rattery A,
2iid, m. o. July 27, '05, v.
T'raig, \. C, e. April 23.'0l. in Battery .\, 2nd,
died of wnds. Mav 1,'02.
Mvers, J. W., e. Sept. 10,'62, in Batterv A, 2ud,
ra. o. Sept. 14,'64.
Beverlv, Cassius, e. Feb. 13, '64, in Batters' C, 2d,
died- Dec. 29, '64.
Smith, F. M., e. Mar. 31, '04, in Battery D, 2nd,
ra. o. July 14, '65.
(ierman, Simeon, e. Jan. 2, '64, in Cogswell's
Battery, m. o. Aug. 14, '65.
German, W. J., e. April. 1 '64. in Cogswell's
Batterv.
CHAPTER XIV.
THE BAR OF FULTON COUNTY.
PIONEER COURTS.
The Circuit Court of Fulton county held its first term, according
to the records of that Court, April 26, 1824. The County Com-
missioners' Court selected grand and petit juries July 5, 1823, to
serve at the October term of the Circuit Court of that year; but
there are no records of a Court being held at that time, or during that
year. In making inquiries in order to harmonize the two records
if possible, we asked an old settler about it. He said that "either
the Judge had the ague or too many of the jurymen had moved
away : there wasn't enough to hold Court." It must be remembered
that in those days jurymen were not as plentiful as they are now.
Every settler for miles around was either on the grand or petit jury,
or being engaged as defendant, prosecutor or witness in a trial, and
great difficulty was experienced in finding a sufficient number to sit
upon the juries. When it was found that more jurymen were
needed, it was the task of days to subpoena them.
The first grand jury for the first term of the Circuit Court were
composed of the following pioneers: Ossian ^[. Ross, foreman,
John Wolcott, David Gallintin, Jeremiah Smith, Elijah Putman,
Urban Pyalds, Hazael Putman, Reuben Fenner, William Clark,
Stephen Chase, James Johnson, Roswell Tyrrell, Thomas Eveland,
Lyman Tracy, Theodore Sergeant, Roswell B. Fenner, Joseph
Ogee and Robert Grumb. John Reynolds was the first Judge.
Although a member of the Supreme Court, he did Circuit duty.
The members of the Supreme Court held Court throughout the
State. Judge Reynolds was afterwards State Governor.
The Judge appointed Hugh R. Colter as Clerk.
The first case upon the docket was an '^appeal from a Justice's
judgment," but as to the nature of the trial the records are silent.
It was a case between Elias P. Avery and John Totteu, and was
dismissed by the Judge, each party paying his own cost.
Grand and petit juries were selected for the October term, 1824,
but no Judge came : consequently no court was held. We suppose
there were no urgent cases on the docket. Indeed, the greatest num-
ber of trials for several years were for assault and battery. It is an
undisputable fact that the pioneers would fight. They were robbed
HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY. 393
of the pleasures afforded in older settled communities, and engaged
in hand-to-hand encounters more as recreation or amusement, than
taking revenge upon their fellow men.
There was not another term of the Court held until Nov. 10, 1825,
when the old pioneer Judge, Hon. John York Sawyer, presided.
Judge Sawyer was one of those early judges who had no finely fur-
nished and fitted room in which to hold Court. It was the humble
cabin, or plain board building, in which this able Judge presided.
He has been known to hold Court upon the bank of the Mackinaw
river in Tazewell county. He was a man eminently suited to the
times. John Twiug, Attorney General pro tern.., acted as Prosecuting
Attorney at this term, and Stephen Dewey Clerk. Ossian M. Ross
officiated as Sheriff. These were efficient and able men, and during
that day dispensed justice and attended to their official duties with
the promptness and ability of any later period of Fulton county's
history. At this term of the Circuit Court Hugh R. Colter was ad-
mitted to the practice of law, which undoubtedly places him as the
first lawyer of Fulton county, as he was the first in many other
things. He never applied himself for any length of time, however,
to the legal profession.
This was the First Circuit at that time, and extended throughout
the northern part of the State. A few years later it was changed to
the Fifth and included all the country in the Military Tract, even
the counties of Cook and Jo Daviess. Fulton county remained in
the Fifth Judicial District until 1873, when the Circuits were re-
arranged and this was assigned to the Eleventh District, including
the counties of Fulton, McDonough, Pike, Schuyler and Brown.
While the surroundings of the pioneer Court were rude, and
scarcely had been transformed from the wilderness in which the
Indians had but recently left them, yet the dignity of the Court
must be preserved ; and the shortest term of confinement ever given
an individual in this county, or in any other that we ever heard of,
was inflicted upon Charles Turner Oct. 16, 1830, for contempt.
Upon that day he was sentenced by the Judge to be confined to the
county jail for two hours. The order was executed and Mr. Turner
was placed behind the prison bars for that short period of time.
The following incident is related by a veteran lawyer which very
forcibly illustrates the difference in the customs of the by-gone days
and the present time. He was in attendance upon the Circuit Court
at Lewistown for the first time. The Honorable Judge and six
other attorneys besides himself were obliged to occupy one room at
the hotel, for during Court the landlords generally had every avail-
able spot in their small buildings occupied. These times were a
rich harvest for them. The Judge and the other legal gentlemen
passed their evenings at playing cards. While they no doubt en-
gaged in the games for pastime, yet they made them the more
interesting by playing for money. Poker seemed to have been the
game preferable. They also had a bottle, which, besides holding a
394 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUXTY.
liquid very palatable to them, they utilized as a candlestick, put-
ting the^lighted candle in its mouth. Imagine the spectacle, will
you, of the Judge of your Court with half a dozen of vour leading
lawyers sitting around such a table. Well, one nighf while our
friend, who it seems did not care to indulge in the social glass and
game,*, was snoozing, he was awakened by a loud report, caused bv
the explosion of the bottle. He found the entire partv considerably
excited and quarreling, accusing each other of stealing monev. Let
us hurriedly draw the curtain before such a scene.
COUET DAYS.
Among the notable days in the early history of the county Avas
Court day. The convening of Court was one of the events of the
year. Upon that day nearly everybody gathered at the county-
seat. If a settler happened not to be on a jury, or a witness, or a
suitor, he felt it his bounden duty to "go to Court," to s^e and hear
what was going on. It answered the place of shows and circuses
of a later day, and ])erhaps was as instructive, if not as entertain-
ing. Lawyers in those pioneer times traveled from county to
county throughout the Circuit, no one point having l)usiness enough
to justify a good lawyer to spend all his time there. When Court
was over in the evening, the Judge, lawyers and citizens would con-
gregate in the bar-rooms of the taverns, especially at Truman
Phelps' hotel, where stories were told and the evening spent in con-
versation. These seasons were accounted the most enjoyable of
pioneer life ; and when we consider the men who were there to
edify and please the crowd Avith their stories and anecdotes, we may
well consider Court days as ])ossessing an interest of no little merit.
There were Lincoln and Douglas, two of the greatest statesmen the
world has ever known, and both of whom possessed an inexhaust-
ible fountain of anecdotes. It is said that the immense fund of
anecdotes possessed by the late President Lincoln was largely
derived from collections made while " on the Circuit." Then there
were Richardson, Walker, Baker, McDougal, Young, Browning,
Bushnell and others, who could relate as good a story as ever was
listened to. Who would not love to sit at the feet of such men and
listen to their arguments, their general conversation and their
stories ?
riRCriT JUDGES.
Of the Judges who have presided at the Circuit Court in this
county from its organization to the present time we give brief per-
sonal sketches.
Hon. John Keyno/ds was a native of Pennsylvania, of Irish
descent, and was reared amid pioneer associations and imbibed the
characteristics, manners and customs of the pioneers. He disliked
polish, condemned fashion, and was addicted to inordinate pro-
fanity. These, garnished by his varied reading, a native shrewd-
#
STATES ATTOf?NEY
MNlVf
IIBRAR.Y
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 897
ness and a wonderful faculty of garrulity, make him, considering the
high offices he held, one of the public oddities of Illinois. He
was one of the Justices of the Supreme Court when he held court
at Lewistown.
Hon. John Y. Sawyer. By the Constitution the terms of office of
the Supreme Judges were to expire Avith the close of the year 1824.
The Legislature re-organized the judiciary by creating both Circuit
and Supreme Courts. The State was divided into five judicial
circuits, providing two terms of court annually in each county.
The salaries of the Circuit Judges were fixed at $600. Judge
Sawyer was the first Circuit Judge to hold court in this county.
He was chosen for the First Circuit.
Hoyi. Richard 31. Young was appointed Judge of this Circuit in
1828 and remained in the office till January, 1837, when he resigned
to accept a seat in the U. S. Senate. Judge Young was a native of
Kentucky, and was one of the first settlers of Northern Illinois.
He ranked high in his profession, and his counsels did much to shape
the^policy of the State. In his manners he was gentle, courteous
and entertaining, which qualities rendered him attractive and pop-
ular. He was generous in his feelings and liberal in his views; pos-
sessed liberal endowment of intellectual ability and literary and le-
gal acquirements, and these, with his other qualifications, admirably
fitted him for the post he was called to fill. He died from insanity.
Hon. James H. Ralston, a native of Kentucky, was elected by the
Legislature in 1837, and in August of the same year he resigned on
account of his health, with a view of going to Texas, whither he
went but soon returned to Quincy. In 1840 he was elected State
Senator. In 1846 President Polk appointed him Assistant Quar-
termaster of the U. S. army. Having discharged his duties faith-
fully during the war with Mexico, he returned home and soon after
emigrated to California.
Hon. Peter Lott, a native of New York, was elected the successor
of James Ralston, and continued in the office until January, 1841.
He was subsequently appointed Clerk of the Circuit Court of Adams
county, and served until 1852 ; he then went to California and was
appointed Superintendent of the U. S. Mint in San Francisco by
President Pierce, and was removed in 1857 by President Buchanan,
and afterwards moved to Kansas and lived in humble life.
Hon. Stephen A. Douglas was elected Judge by the Legislature in
1841. The life and career of this great man is so well and widely
known as to render any extended notice of him useless. It is suf-
ficient to say that the circumstances upon which he entered upon the
duties of his office were such as to thoroughly try the scope of his
ability. The Circuit Avas large; the previous incumbent of the
officehad left the ''docket" loaded with unfinished "cases," but he
was more than equal to the task. He " cleaned out the docket "
with that dispatch and ability which distinguished his subsequent
course; and so profound was the impression he made upon the
25
398 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
people that, in the first Congressional election which occurred after
he was established in his character as Judge, he received nomination
as a member of Congress, and was elected.
Hon. Jesse B. Thomns was ajipointed in Aug., 1843, and continued
to hold the position until 1845, when he resigned. Judge Thomas
possessed high legal abilities and accpiirements, and discharged the
duties of his office with honor to himself and to the satisfaction of
the people. After his resignation he was appointed to anotl]er Cir-
cuit and soon after died. He w\as a delegate to Congress from Indi-
ana as early as 1808. His district was what are now the States of
Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin and Michigan. He was one of the first
U. S. Senators of Illinois,
Hon. Norman H. Purple was the next incumbent of the office.
He was elected in 1845 and served till May, 1849, when he resigned.
The probable cause for this was the insufficiency of salary. The
people of this district were anxious to retain him as Judge, and
probably would, l)ut for the cause stated. He was distingu'.s'.ied
for high legal abilities and executive talents, and the office was ren-
dered the more honorable for his having occupied it.
Hon. William A. Minshall was elected in May, 1849, and contin-
ued to hold the office till his death, in October, 1851, although iu
1850 he was cut off from this district. Judge M. was a native of
Tennessee, and came early into the State. He was an active and
successful lawyer and attained distinction in his profession. Previous
to his election as Judge he had been a member of the Constitutional
Convention and also a member of the State Legislature.
Hon. 0. C. Skinner succeeded Judge Minshall and occupied the
office from May, 1851, to May, 1853, when he was elected to the
Supreme Bench, and remained there till 1858, when he resigned. He
was a sound, able lawyer and popular as a Judge, and gained emi-
nence in his position as a Judge of the Supreme Court.
Hon. Pinkney H. Walker served until his appointment, in 1858, to
fill a vacancy on the Supreme Bench. In 1859 he wcs elected to
the Supreme Court for nine years, which position he n nv holds.
Judge Walker is a native of Kentucky and came into the State with
his father among the first settlers, and located in McDonough
countv. He had onlv such advantages for obtaining his literarv ac-
qiiirements as a newly settled country afforded, but a strong deter-
mination, added to high intellectual abilities and go<id health, carried
him over all of the educational wants of the times, and gave him a
fair position as a scholar. The same qualifications rendered him
thorough as a student of law, and gave him superiority as a coun-
selor. His present residence is at Rushville.
Hon. .John S. Biiiley was the succeeding incumbent of the office
and served for three years. Previous to his appointment he was
States' Attorney for this district. He was considered a sound lawyer,
and made an impartial Judge. He now resides at Macomb, and yet
follows his chosen profession.
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 399
Hon. Oiauncey L. Higbie, of Pike coiintv, was first elected in
1861, and was re-elected twice, each time for six years. His repu-
tation as an able lawyer is unquestioned and fewer appeals were made
from his decisions than from any other Judge in the State. He was
elected to the Appellate Court in 1877, when the present incumbent,
Judge Shope, of Lewistown, was chosen.
Hon. S. P. Shope. — Judge Shope, of Lewistown, was born in
Mississippi but reared in Ohio. In the spring of 18-39 he came to
Illinois, read law with Judges Purple and Powell in Peoria, and
was admitted to the Bar June 11, 1856. He first opened an office
in Metamora, 111., but in a short time removed to Lewistown, where
he still resides. He has had a large practice as a lawyer, not only
in his own Judicial District but also in Logan, Mason and Cass coun-
ties. In August, 1877, he was elected Judge of this District without
opposition. His thorough knowledge of law, quick comprehension
and well-known impartiality render him a popular Judge. AVe re-
fer to the Judge again as a citizen of Lewistown.
PROSECUTING ATTORNEYS.
During the earliest period of the county's history the Attorney-
General of the State acted as Pi'osecuting Attorney in Circuit dis-
tricts. At the time the first Court was held in this county, James
Turney was Attorney-General. The following term Attorney-Geu-^
eral Turney not being present John Twing was appointed j^''^ tern.
George Forquer was the next Attorney-General. After the expira-
tion of his term the Circuit was given a State's Attorney. This mode
remained in vogue, although, of course the districts were often
changed and cut down, until 1872, when the county was given a
prosecuting attorney, who is known both as State's Attorney and
County Attorney. This official is not now, as formerly, called out
of the county to prosecute for the people.
The Prosecuting Attorneys serving this county are as follows :
Hon. Thonuii^ Ford served for several years previous to 1835. He
was possessed of high and noble qualities of manhood, a thorough
student, a keen, energetic, untiring lawyer, of strict integrity and
laudable aspirations, and was universally esteemed and respected.
He afterwards became Judge of the northern district, and when he
had become known over the State, was chosen Governor by a spon-
taneous movement of the people.
Hon. WiUiam A. Richardson, who served till 1837. Mr. Rich-
ardson's personal merits and characteristics are too well known to
require any delineation. His predominating traits were courage,
unyielding perseverance and unvarying adherence to the cause to
w4iieh he was committed. He had command of a regiment of Illi-
nois volunteers during the Mexican war, and in the battle of Buena
Vista his cap was carried from his head by a musket ball. He re-
turned home and was elected to Congress, and re-elected five times.
He was also appointed Governor of Nebraska by Buchanan.
400 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Hon. Henry L. Bryant, of Lewistown, succeeded Mr. Richardson,
and served until 1839. He is characterized as a gentleman of fine
qualities and as an able lawyer. We shall speak personally of Mr.
Bryant again in the history of the city of Lewistown.
Hon. William Elliott served from January, 1839, till January,
1848. He was esteemed as a worthy man, a warm friend and a good
lawyer. He served in the Black Hawk war, and was wounded in a
hand-to-hand conflict with a single Indian, whom he killed. He
was Quartermaster in the 4th regiment during the Mexican war,
and served through. He returned to Lewistown and continued his
practice until about 1856, when he moved upon a farm in Peoria
county, near Farmington, where he died in February, 1871.
Ho7i. Robert S. Blachvell was the successor of Mr. Elliott, and
served from 1848 till 1852. Mr. Blackwell was one of the most
distinguished lawyers in the State, and is the author of "Blackwell
on Tax Titles."
Harmon G. Reynolds. — From 1852 to 1854, Hon. Harmon G.
Reynolds, of Knoxville, held the office. Mr. Reynolds was an
attorney-at-law of great ability, and an active man in all beneficent
enterprises. He came from Rock Island to Knoxville some time
about 1851, where he practiced law, was State's Attorney and Post-
master, and held prominent positions in the Masonic order. He
moved from Knoxville to Springfield, where he served as Grand
Secretary of the order. He now resides in Kansas.
William C. Goudy. — Hon. William C. Goudy, of Lewistown, suc-
ceeded Mr. Reynolds. Mr. Goudy was a shrewd Democratic poli-
tician in earlier days, as well as a faithful servant of the people as a
delegate to conventions, as a member of the State Senate, etc. As
a lawyer he is accounted one of the ablest that ever practiced at the
bar. He has accumulated large wealth and now resides in Chicago,
where he moved in 1859.
Calvin A. Warren followed Mr. Blackwell in the office. Mr.
Warren served from May, 1852, until August, 1853. This gentle-
man was a popular, fluent speaker and successful lawyer.
Hon. A. M. Craig, of Knoxville, served in 1856. He was elected
to the Supreme Court a few years ago, where he still holds a seat.
Hon. John S. Bailey, of McDonough county, filled the office until
September, 1858, when he resigned for a seat upon the bench.
Hon. L. H. Waters was appointed by the Governor to fill the
unexpired term of Mr. Bailey. He was from Macomb, and served
until the fall of 1860. A year later he entered the army as Lieu-
tenant-Colonel of the 28th Illinois Infantry. Resigning, he was
commissioned to raise another regiment, which he succeeded in
■ doing and received the appointment of Colonel. This was the 84th
Illinois Infimtry and did excellent service under his efficient com-
mand. At the close of the war he returned to Macomb and prac-
ticed law, and about four years later moved to Missouri. He now
resides at Jefferson City, that State,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 401
Thomas E. Morgan was the next incumbent. Mr. Morgm was a
lawyer of fine ability and ranked at the head of the bar in this part
of the State. He died July 22, 1867.
L. W. J«//i&s, of Lewistown, was the next incumbent. Mr. James
is a lawyer of more than ordinary talent and was one of the best
prosecutors in the district, and is said to be one of the most brilliant
young men in the State. He now resides at Peoria.
Daniel Abbott. — When each county throughout the Circuit was
given a prosecuting attorney, Daniel Abbott was chosen for Fulton
county. He is a native of this county, having been born here May
21, 1838; commenced the study of law in 1859; was admitted to
the Bar in January, 186(3, and has since resided in Canton where he
is engaged in the practice of law.
THE BAR.
The Bar of Fulton county has ever stood foremost of all in this
great State. Some of the best legal minds, and fairest logicians and
finest orators of the age have practiced at this Bar.
In reviewing the Bar of the county our readers must bear in mind
that as the prosperity and well-being of every community depends
upon the wise interpretation, as well as upon the judicious framing,
of its laws, it must follow that a record of the members of the Bar,
to whom these matters are generally relegated, must form no unim-
portant chapter in the county's history. Upon a few principles of
natural justice is erected the whole superstructure of civil law
tending to relieve the wants and meet the desires of all alike. But
where so many interests and counter interests are to be protected and
adjusted, to the judiciary is presented many interesting and com-
plex problems. But change is everywhere imminent. The laws of
yesterday do not compass the wants and necessities of the people of
to-day. The old relations do not exist. New and satisfactory ones
must be established. The discoveries in the arts and sciences ; the
invention of new contrivances for labor ; the enlargement of indus-
trial pursuits, and the increase and development of commerce are
without precedence, and the science of the law must keep pace
with them all ; nay, it must even forecast events and so frame its
laws as will most adequately subserve the wants and provide for the
necessities of the new conditions. Hence the lawyer is a man of
the day. The exigencies he must meet are those of his own time.
His capital is his ability and individuality. He cannot bequeath
to his successors the characteristics that distinguished him, and at
his going the very evidences of his work disappear. And in com-
piling this short sketch one is astonished at the paucity of material
for a memoir of those who have been so intimately connected with,
and who exerted such an influence upon, the county's welfare and
progress. The peculiarities and the personalities which form so
pleasing and interesting a part of the lives of the members of the
Bar, and which indeed constitute the charm of local history, a,re
402 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
altogether wanting. Unlike the fair plaintiif in Bardell vs. Pick-
wick, we have no pains-taking sergeant to relate "the facts and cir-
cumstances" of the case. The Court records give us the facts, but the
circumstances surrounding and giving an interest to the events are
wanting.
As stated elsewhere in this volume, the Bar of Fulton county has
always been an able one, and some of the brightest minds of our
State have practiced law in the Courts of this county. Among the^
foreign lawyers who have prominently figured here were Hon. Wm.
A. Minshall, of Rushville, William A. Richardson and Gen. Max-
well, of Rush ville, Abraham Lincoln and E. D.Baker, of Springfield,
Cyrus Walker and Gilmore Walker, of Macomb, Hon. Stephen T.
Logan, of Springfield, James W. AVhitney ("My Lord Coke"), of
Pike county, Wm. A. Grimshawof Pike, Bryant T. Schofield of Han-
cock, Julius Manning, of Peoria, James A. McDougal, of Jackson-
ville and Archiijald Williams, Peter Lott, O. H. Browning, Nehe-
miah Bushnell, W. Johnson and Wheat, all of Quincy, and others
whose history is coeval with that of the early days of the county.
Of those attorneys who resided in the county at one time and are
now either dead, have quit the practice or have moved away, we will
speak of first ; afterwards we will speak personally of the present
members of the Bar.
H. S. Austin resided in Farming-ton. He was a fair lawver. He
left the county about 1853 and at present resides in Chicago.
J. P. Boice came to LewistoAvn from New Eno-land at an earlv
day, and at one time, 1841, was associated with John David in the
practice of law. He was a good lawyer, but not an advocate
of special ability. He was a prominent Whig politician and a
shrewd, sharp worker. He moved to Henry, Marshall Co., where
he died.
Floyd Brown was a lawyer of considerable ability, and, as we are
told, " of considerable whisky, too." He came from Pike county to
Lewistown and went from there to Minnesota, where he died.
Thomas H. Brunei' came to Lewistown from Ohio, and proved
himself in a short time to be not a successful lawyer. He soon em-
barked in the lumber trade in company with Geo. Humphrey, and
he with others built the Willison Hotel and the adjoining block.
He left Lewistown in 1869.
John S. Clendennln came to Lewistown in 1842 or '43, but could
not get a foothold in his profession here and soon after went to
Yazoo City, Miss., and became quite a prominent man. He is now
deceased. His brother, D. R. Clendennin, was a member of the com-
mission that tried Mrs. Surratt.
Hugh R. Colter was admitted to practice law by Judge John
York Sawyer, at Lewistown, in November, 1825. Mr. Colter, it
will be remembered, was the first Circuit and County Clerk of Ful-
ton county, and wielded an important part in the organization of
the county and in starting its governmental machinery. He was
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 403
also engaged in school-teaching. He never applied himself to the
practice of his legal profession here.
Lewis Corbin, although "a good judge of law," to use a "West-
ernism," was never noted in any degree for his success. Honest,
slow of speech, and not over-enterprising, he was too good a man
to be a successful lawyer. He lived at Canton.
John W. David was a member of the law firm of Boice & David,
and died about the year 1842, insane. He was modest, unassuming,
steady and sober, and highly esteemed. Although not brilliant as
a lawyer, he possessed sound judgment.
Asa Lee Davison, for years a partner of Hon. William Kellogg,
was a lawyer of more than average ability. A good pleader, full of
wit and of commanding presence, he would doubtless have ranked
among our foremost men had it not been for his unfortunate love
for strong drink. After leaving Canton he occupied a prominent
position as a member of the New York Legislature, and finally
died at Pekin, 111.
Caleb J. Dilworfh was formerly a partner of Judge Shope, and is a
lawyer of great ability. He is at present Attorney General of Ne-
braska.
William Elliott was a good pioneer lawyer and served the District
as State's Attorney. He lived at Lewistown, then moved over the
line into Peoria county, where he died.
Henry B. Evans was quite a land owner in this county at one time
but became embarrassed, and about 1861 entered the army as sutler,
thinking to retrieve his fortune. He was prospering nicely when
the rebels raided the Union lines and took all of his goods. He
now resides in Chicago. He served as County Clerk from 1839
to '47.
Robert Farwell read law with Wead & Goudy, and is a good
lawyer. He has accuuiulated a large fortune and resides at Prince-
ton, 111.
William C. Goudy studied law with Judge Wead and was
admitted to the Bar while living at Lewistown. He was for many
years not only at the head of the Bar in Fulton county, but had an
enviable State reputation. He removed to Chicago several years
ago, where he still lives, and is regarded as one of the most promi-
nent legal gentlemen in the State. He is yet largely identified with
the business interests of this county, especially coal-mining.
W. H. H. Haskell belongs to the versatile class of men, having
great talent for so great a variety of occupations that he has no time
to succeed at all of them. Editor, lawyer, artist, teacher, cabinet-
maker, book-keeper, and proficient in thirteen (literal fact) other
professions or trades, he never shone so well at the Bar as he now
does as the editor of the Amboy Journal, which certainly ranks well
as a country paper. He resided at Canton.
George S. Hill, formerly of Canton, was one of the class of fussy,
flighty men, who succeed only in becoming second-rate attorneys.
404 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
With a fair legal education, some pluck, but no balance, he was not
recognized as one of the legal luminaries of Fulton county.
James Johnson was a very eccentric man, and not especially emi-
nent as a lawyer or anything else. He came to Lewistown previous
to 1840 and was admitted to practice his profession while living
there. He went from this county to California, where he is now
upon the bench.
6'. Corning Judd came to Lewistown about 1852, and was in the
profession at the time. He is a brother-in-law of W. C. Goudy, and
became his partner in the practice of law, and continued in that re-
lation until Mr. Goudy removed to Chicago. He remained here for
some years when he too removed to Chicago, and is ranked among
the leading legal gentlemen of that city, and has a large and lucra-
tive practice.
Hon. Willimn Kellogg for many years stood at the head of the
Fulton county Bar. His fort was criminal practice, and no lawyer
at the Bar was more eloquent in his defense of a prisoner, or better
able to select a jury whose sympathies could be touched by his elo-
quence. His judgment in civil practice could be fully relied upon,
but his besetting sin, a dislike of close application, sometimes lost
him cases in which either his interest or sympathy was not aroused.
His forensic power made him fully the equal of any Illiuoisan who
ever graced the Bar.
Wm. Pitt Kellogg was yet young in practice when he quit law for
politics, but had already won quite a reputation as a pleader, and
one who was at all times ready to take every advantage offered by
his adversary's neglect. He would have undoubtedly stood at the
head of the Bar had he remained in practice. He is now U. S. Sen-
ator from Lousiana.
Myron Kimball was a smart, sharp, nervous man, and obtained his
professional training under Hon. O. H. Browning. He was a partner
of George Phelps, and left the county during the Rebellion, and we
believe resides at Quincy, 111.
A. G. Kirhpatrick returned to Monmouth, 111., the place he came
from, to Lewistown, about 1864. He remained here about three
years. He was a man of some ability in his profession, but of no
discretion,
Thomas J. Little was a wiry, still, shrewd man, not famous for ora-
tory or pleading, but who saw the weak points in his adversary's mail
and had a lance ready to pierce it. His best forte was in the prep-
aration of legal papers, and hunting up his case,
Sidney V. McClung was an educated lawyer of more than ordinary
native talent, whose sun set in the fog which rum has generated in
the horizon of far too many brilliant men.
^Samuel B. Oberlander came to Lewistown from Iowa in 1863 and
remained till 1871, when he went to Howard county, Iowa. He
never won any special distinction as a member of the Fulton county
Bar.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 405
W. C. Osborn came to Lewistown about the year 1828. He was
a well-read lawyer, yet his reputation for fairness was questioned by
some. He owned the entire block fronting the square^on the west
side at one time, where he kept a law office and grocery store. He
remained here about fifteen years and moved to Iowa, where he died.
George Phelps, son of the late Myron Phelps, was a member of
the legal firm of Phelps & Kimball.' He was a student under the
eminent lawyers, Browning & Bushnell. He left Lewistown during
the war and'entered the army as paymaster, and now resides at New
Albany, Ind.
Stephen H. Pitkins came from Ohio to Lewistown prior to 1840.
He read law and was admitted to the Bar while in this county. He
was a medium lawyer and at one time served as Probate Judge of
this county. He returned to Ohio during the decade between
1850 and 1860, where, as far as we can learn, he still resides.
John W. Ross, son of Hon. L. W. Ross, began practicing law at
Lewistown in 1862 or '63. He rose in his profession rapidly and
soon moved to Washington, D. C, where he now resides.
Gen. Leonard F. Foss was admitted to the Bar ; and practiced
previous to his election to the office of County Clerk, since which
time he has practiced but little.
Joseph Sharp was a lawyer of no special prominence.
Henry B. Stillman. — The late Henry B. Stillman read law in 1843
and '44, went to the northern part of the State and became Prose-
cuting Attorney. He was a good lawyer but unfortunately he drank
hard during much of his life. He died during the past\summer at
Lewistown.
George W. Stipp came to Lewistown about 1844 and left about
1855. He was an able lawyer. In criminal practice and before the
jury he stood in the front rank. He resides in Bureau county and
is Circuit Judge.
Washington J. Taylor was a courtly, polite man, well educated,
fond of sport, quick to perceive all the points in a case, and was
just beginning what would doubtless have proven a successful career
at the Bar when death cut him off. He lived at Canton.
S. S. Tipton, at one time a law partner of the Hon. Lewis W.
Ross, was raised in this county. He was a good office lawyer but
not deeply read in law. He left the county in about 1865 and
moved to Kansas where he now resides.
Henry Walker, father of Hon. Meredith Walker, came to the Bar
at a time when life had passed its zenith for him. A brick-mason
by trade and with a limited education, by dint of hard work, good
sense and energy he was able to take a position among our foremost
lawyers in both criminal and general practice.
E. T. Warren was the first practicing attorney to locate in Ful-
ton countv, so far as we are able to learn. He came from Maine
and located at Lewistown in 1824 or '25, where he resided three or
four years. He was a good pioneer lawyer.
406 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Hon. H. 31. Wead came from the State of Vermont to Lewis-
town in about 1840, and was engaged in his profession at that time.
He was a sound lawyer, a good advocate, and an able jurist. In
1852 he was elected Circuit Judge and filled the office, not only
creditably, but eminently. He was a partner of W. C. Goudy for
some time. At the expiration of his term of office on the bench
he went to Peoria and became one of the most promising lawyers
of that city, where he died three or four years ago.
Ira 0. Wilkinson came from New York in '45 or '6 and remained
only about a year or two, when he went to Rock Island, where he
subsequently became Circuit Judge. He was a young man when he
came to Lewistown, and although the bar was composed of some of
the best men of the State, things were not quite nice enough for him"
here, and he left.
A. C. Woolfolk came to Lewistown about twenty years ago and
remained only a short time. As a lawyer he was not brilliant, or,
as we are told, "of much force."
THE MEMBERS OF THE PRESENT BAR.
It has been our intention to give the name and what facts we
could obtain of every lawyer who has formerly lived and practiced
in this county. If we have over-looked any person it is certainly
unintentional. We inquired most diligently for weeks in regard to
the various members of the Bar of the past, and have been told by men
whom almost everybody will accord the credit of knowing, that our
list is a full and complete one.
In regard to the members of the present Bar it has also been our
desire to speak of each and every one that has been admitted to the
Bar, If we have omitted a name we assure the gentleman and our
readers that his name was omitted because we did not have informa-
tion of his being a lawyer, etc.
Daniel Abbott, State's Attorney, is engaged in the practice of law
at Canton.
Jacob Abbott, Canton, was born in this countv and admitted to
the Bar July 4, 1876.
/. W. Bantz, Lewistown, was admitted to the Bar in 1872 and
began practice in Clearfield, Pa., the place where he began the study
of law four years previously ; came to Lewistown in July, 1875. He
was born in Loudon Co., Va., in 1850, and is a son of John and
Mary A. (Merchant) Bantz.
A. M. Barnett, Lewistown has been engaged in the practice of
law for a short time in that city, and is the present Clerk of Lewis-
town township.
Hon. Granville Barrere came to this county and located at Can-
ton many years ago, and has been actively engaged in law ever since.
In 1873-4 he was elected to Congress on the R9publican ticket, of
which party he is a staunch member.
Hon. Thos. A. Boyd, Lewistown, is the present member of Con-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 407
gress from this District, and is now serving his second terra as a
member of that body. He has also served in the State Legislature ;
and when Abraham Lincoln called for troops in 1861, Mr. Boyd
went as Captain of the first company raised at Lewistown. A full
sketch of this gentleman will be given in the history of the city of
Lewistown.
Henry L. Bryant, of Lewistown, was born in Covington, Mass.,
and educated in Geneva College, N. Y. He read law at Lexington,
Ky., and took a course of lectures at Transylvania University ;
came to Macomb, 111., in 1835; in 1837 was elected State's Attorney,
before he was 21 years of age, and filled the office with satisfaction
to the public and with great honor to himself. He resided in Ma-
comb until 1848; in 1852 was elec^d County Judge of this county
and served two terms, and in 1876 was again elected to the same
office.
Walter L. Crossthicait studied law in the office of Meredith Walk-
er at Canton for three years, attended law school at Ann Arbor,
Mich., and was admitted to the Bar Jan. 5, 1877. He is now en-
gaged in practice in Canton.
W. J. Dyckes, a young lawyer, located at Lewistown, where he is
engaged in the practice of his chosen profession.
W. S, Edwards, of Lewistown, is a son of Sam'l and Sarah (Dodds)
Edwards, natives of Ohio ; in 1870 he entered Hedding College,
Abingdon, 111., studied law at Quincy, and in 1876 entered the office
of Hon. Thos. A. Boyd, with whom he is still associated in the legal
profession.
Samuel A. Ghee, Canton, is an old attorney, but of late years has
not been actively engaged in the practice of his profession at the Bar.
Frederick M. Grant, of the firm of Barrere & Grant, is a native
of Connecticut, studied law with Judge R. L. Hannaman, of Knox
Co.^ 111., and was admitted to the Bar in March, 1869. He prac-
ticed law in Galesburg for a few years, and came to Canton in 1873.
John A. Gray, Lewistown, was born in Morgan Co., O., in 1842;
was brought to this county with his parents in 1850; enlisted in
May, 1861, in the 17th 111 Inf., was wounded at Ft. Holden, Ky.,
and was finally promoted to the Captaincy. In 1867 he began the
study of law with Col. Robert G. Ingersoll at Peoria, and two years
afterward was admitted to the Bar; in 1870 began practice at Cuba,
this county ; in 1872 moved to Lewistown and formed a partnership
with Judge Shope. He was a member of the Legislature from this
county in 1873-4.
Frank B. Gregory, State's Attorney, Lewistown, was educated at
Ann Arbor, Mich., and began legal studies with Judge Shope, of
Lewistown, in 1876 ; two years afterward he was admitted to the
Bar and began practice in this county.
John M. Heller, Av(»n ; born at Cuba, Fulton Co., in 1847 ; reared
and educated at Peoria; attended the St. Louis Law School ; in 1873
went to Texas; in 1874 began the practice of law ; practiced his pro-
408 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
fession in Kansas one year; and in 1877 was admitted to the Bar in
Illinois.
N. S. Jordan, of Bernadotte, is one of the pioneer lawyers of Ful-
ton Co.
('. /. Main read law with J. L. Murphy, of Canton, and was ad-
mitted to the Bar in April, 1871. He \vas born in Ohio. He is
the present Police Magistrate of Canton, and has served that city
as Alderman, City Clerk and Justice of the Peace.
Joseph L. Murphi/, Canton, was born in Pennsylvania ; came to
Fulton county when 5 years of age ; read law with Warren & Wheat,
of Quincy, and was admitted to the Bar in the spring of 1864.
Hon. L. ir. RosSy son of Ossian M. Ross (the founder of Lew-
istown), in honor of whom the city was named, was elected in 1862
as member of Congress from this District, and served until 1869.
During the war with Mexico he raised the only company that went
from Fulton county. He has been an active partisan and a strong
adherent to the principles advocated by the Democratic party. A
full sketch will be given of Mr. Ross as a citizen of Lewistown.
R. B. Sfcven-'ioii began the studv of law under the direction of
Judge Winston Paul at Hillsboro, O., in 1846; was admitted to
the Bar two years later, and began the practice of his profession
in his native city ; in 1854 moved to Jackson Co. ; was sent to the
Legislature in 1857, and served one term as State's Attorney in
Highland Co.; became to Lewistown and associated himself with
Hon. Lewis W. Ross; in July, 1879 he moved to Canton.
Harry M. Waggoner, son of D. .1. Waggoner, entered the ofl^ce
of Shope & Gray in 1876, began the study of law, and was admitted
to the Bar in December, 1878.
Arthur Walker, of the firm of Whitney, Walker & Walker, at-
torneys. Canton, was admitted to the Bar July 4, 1877.
Hon. Meredith Walker, Canton, of the law firm of Whitney, Walker
& Walker, is a native of that city, and was admitted to the Bar July
19, 1874. In 1878 he was elected to the State Senate, and made an
honorable record while a member of that body.
Mr. Whitney, of the law firm of Whitney, Walker & Walker, but
recently located at Canton.
John S. Winter was born in Mason Co., Ky., in 1826, and is a
son of John and Margaret (Livingston) Winter; was educated at
Miami University, Oxford, O., and began the study of law at Little
Rock, Ark., in the office of Albert Pike and Senator Garland, of
thit State, and three years later began practice. In 1863 he moved
to Lewistown.
TOW^^SHIP HISTORIES.
ASTORIA TOWNSHIP.
The first settler of Astoria townsliip was Parker McNeil. Soon
after his arrival came David McNeil, his father, and David McNeil,
his brother. Aft' r them came the father of Deacon McNeil. David
McNeil was the first Justice of the"Peace, and was, in alFprobability,
elected in 1832. His successor was Stephen Merrill, from Avhom
this sketch is obtained. Before entering upon the duties of his
office Esquire Merrill proceeded to the cabin of Esquire McNeil to
get the docket ; but much to his astonishment he made the discovery
that no such legal article existed. 'Squire McNeil had conducted
the business of the office for some time without a "docket." Ac-
cordingly'Squire Merrill went to Lewistown, then a small struggling
village of one or two hundred inhabitants. There he procured the
necessary documents and became Justice of the Peace for all the
townships of Kerton, Woodland and 'Astoria. Nor did he transact
an extensive business, for'at this time the voters of these townships
numbered only twenty-one.
Among other pioneers of the township were William Carter, Rev.
Abraham Brown, W. Menton, Wm. Tate, Robert McLellan, Thom-
as Garvin, Robert and Peter McLaren, John Williams, Miss Mary
(Peggy) McLellan and James Carter. These were the early settlers.
Soon, however, others came in, among them Jacob Sharp, Charles
Gilbert, Zachariah Gilbert, Franklin Fackler, Jacob Derry, B. W.
Lutz, S. P. Cummiugs and Joshua Matheny. The latter gentle-
man, we are informed, as compared with the majority of mankind
was almost a marvel. He never used liquors, nor tobacco, never
swore an oath and never had a lawsuit or quarrel in his life, and he
lived to the ripe old age of sixty-five, forty years of which time he
was a member of the M. E. Church. He was good, generous and
acted from principle. Could a higher eulogy be passed upon any
man?
The first religious ceremonies were held at thecabins of the set-
tlers, and afterwards the people met for divine worship at the school-
house in the old town of Washington. This building was used for
a number of years as ^the place for holding religious services.
Henry Summers was the first preacher for this township. Peter
Brown was his successor. There are_now in the township, outside
of the town of Astoria, four churches.
In the early days Astoria township was literally a forest, and Mr.
Stephen Merrill states that a wagon-load of walnuts could have been
410 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
gathered where now stands the business portion of the town of As-
toria.
The first school-teacher was, in all probability, Martin Fast.
David McNeilalso taught quite frequently, as also did John McNeil.
Perhaps no settlers throughout this section were better known in
pioneer days than the McNeil brothers. No stranger came from
the South or East who did not inquire on his arrival in Illinois for
the McNeils.
This township was all patent land. Two millions of acres through
this part of Illinois, known as the Military Tract, had been deeded
to the soldiers of the war of 1812. Accordingly, when the township
was settled much difficulty was experienced among actual settlers in
regard to procuring valid titles. The soldiers who held this laud
never realized the value of their grants, and frequently sold them
for a trifle. Astoria is a full Congressional township and among the
best in the county. It produces wheat superior to any, and, indeed,
as an agricultural district, is surpassed by few townships in the State.
The legal voters of this township were called together at the
house of A. T. Robertson, on Tuesday, April 2, 1850, for the pur-
pose of organizing said toAvnship under an act entitled " An act to
provide for township and county organization," approved Feb. 12,
1849. At this meeting Solomon Lybarger presided as moderator and
H. A. Brown was clerk. The following township officials were
chosen, being the first of the township : Supervisor, Robert Mc-
Clelland ; Town Clerk, Zachariah Gilbert; Assessor, Michael En-
gle ; Collector, Jas. M. Carlock ; Overseer of the Poor, Thomas
G. Garvin ; Commissioners of Highways, Jesse Walker, Cooper
Farr and Elias Keach ; Justices of the Peace, Amos Hipsley and
A. T. Robertson; Constables, Geo, W. Derry and Wm. Walker.
TOWN OF ASTORIA.
Astoria may truly be said to be one of the most flourishing towns
in Central Illinois, and only few in the State of the same number of
inhabitants excel it in the display of enterprise. In detailing the
history of Astoria we shall begin at a very early date in pioneer
history.
In what is now called McLellan's addition, in the eastern por-
tion of the town, a small village called Washington was laid out
in 1 836 by Robert McLellau and Zachariah Gilbert, who kept a
small store for the sale of general merchandise. This hamlet boasted
of two cabins, one blacksmith shop and the store. The cabins were
occupied by Nathaniel McLellan, sr., and Franklin Fackler. A
rude school-house also nestled among the heavv timber and under-
brash, where blackberries grew in such profusion during the sum-
mer of 1836 that wagon loads could easily have been gathered.
The berries when fully ripe presented the appearance of a vast buck-
wheat field. Owing to the limited space allotted for the village
here Zachariah Gilbert, Benjamin Clark and a Mr. Bacon, of St.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 411
Louis, in 1837, moved a quarter of a mile westward, where they laid
out the present town of Astoria. Mr. Gilbert moved his store-
building; and located it upon the site now occupied by the store of
Lovell & Smith, grocers. In a short time the new village boasted
of a postmaster. This gentleman was a Dr. James Owen, who came
from Ohio. The postoffico was kept in a small frame building that
stood upon the west side of the square. This town was more fortu-
nate than most frontier towns, i'or it was on the line of the daily
four-horse stage-coach from Peoria to Quincy, from 1836 till 1843,
and was the point at which dinner was taken.
The town grew verv slowlv for a number of vears. Vermont
was bitterly opposed to the infant village struggling for an exist-
ence, and proved a formidable rival for many years. The first log
cabin upon the town site was built by B. W. Lutz. Zachrriah Gil-
bert, as we have before stated, erected the first store building in the
town of Washington, but at the platting and organization of Asto-
ria a Mr. Morland erected the first business building in the town.
Mr. Gilbert, however, moved his store building from Washington to
Astoria, and on the way carried on his regular trade. Jacob Sharp,
who previously sold goods about a mile and a half from town on
the road to the river, bought Morland's building and moved his
stock of goods to Astoria. John Bane built the second store build-
ing, in which he kept a stock of general merchandise. He also had
a tavern, which, doubtless, was the first tavern opened in the town,
Wm. H. Scripps came in 1840 from Rushville. His means were
limited at that time, but he rented a building from Dr. Owen, and
began his successful career as a merchant, grain-buyer and pork-
packer. Zachariah Gilbert was the first Justice of the Peace after
each Congressional township had been formed into an election pre-
cinct. The first physicians were Drs. James and Carrolton Owens,
Dr. G. V. Hopkins, Dr. Montgomery and Dr. W^alker.
Shortly after the town was organized John Boyd erected a tan-
nery, and for a number of years carried on an extensive business.
Jacob Derry was the first cabinet-maker to locate here. The first
preacher was a Rev. Carter. The first saw and grist-mill was built
by James Brown. Mr. Brown and others ran it for about twelve
years, when it fell into the hands of H. L. Mooneyr It was after-
wards purchased by Cooper & Hamson and used as a carding-mill.
This venture proved unsuccessful, and the old building, which
stands in the western part of town, is rapidly going to decay.
Astoria was first named Vienna, and it went by that name for
some time; but on account of another town in the State bearing the
same name it was changed to Astoria, in honor of John Jacob
Astor. It is not generally known, but it is true, that John Jacob
Astor, the great fur-trader and New York millionaire, was interested
in property in this county. He became the owner of a quarter-sec-
tion of land, the site of the present town of Astoria. Owing to
this fact, when the name was changed from Vienna, it was called
Astoria.
412 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
From 1845 to 1850 some improvements were made in the town
as a result of rectifying the titles to lots in the place, which had
been a cause of trouble, and the infant town suffered materially in
prosperity up to 1860. At that time a new vigor began to perme-
ate every department of business, and the town steadily improved
for some time. It should be mentioned that Franklin Fackler was
the first blacksmith of the place. He was and is well known as one
of the^most generous of men and a skillful mechanic. The first
school was organized in 1838, and was taught by John Fast. At
present [there is one large graded school, M'ith principal and tAvo
teachers ; and owing to the rapid growth of the town there was
erected this year a substantial brick structure at a cost of over
$2,000. Prof. Boyer is principal of the schools, and John Palmer
is teacher of the grammar department, Miss Rose Anderson of
the intermediate department, and Miss Dolly Kost of the primary.
The new building is occupied by Miss Bartholow and Miss Dun-
can as teachers. There are four Churches in the town, viz : Methodist
Episcopal, Rev. J. G. Bonnell, pastor; Christian, Elder Robinson,
pastor ; United Brethren, Rev. Pease, pastor ; German Reformed. All
of these congregations own good church edifices. Rev. Isaac Pool
was the first Methodist pastor, who also preached at the school-house
in the old town of AVashington, as already mentioned. Peter
Akers was the first Ellder in Methodism in this section. Peter Cart-
wright, whose fame extended throughout the laud, was also an
Elder and frequently preached at the town of Washington.
Generally speaking, Astoria has borne a good reputation as a quiet,
orderly town, doubtless greatly shielded by the ennobling influence
of her strong religious organizations. Occasionally, however, the
town has been disgraced by a street brawl. In an early day intox-
icating liquors were freely dispensed, but now there is no saloon
here, thanks to the order-loving community who have voted down
the hellish traffic and driven the liquor-venders from their midst.
For a number of years the growth of the town of Astoria was
comparatively at a stand-still, but was not unlike all inland towns
having no railroad communications. In 1870, as nearly as can be
ascertained, Astoria contained a population of 350 persons. At that
time a railroad'rivalry existed between the people of Rushville and
Macomb, on one hand, and of Astoria and Bushnell on the other. A
proposition was set afloat for the purpose of finding a suitable route for
the Rockford, Rock Island & St. LouisRailroad. This road had been
completed from St. Louis to Beardstown, and the projwsition was then
made by railroad officials to build the road on its present line, and
not through Rushville and Macomb. Appeals were made to the
citizens of Bushnell, Vermont, and other places of less note for aid.
Vermont, however, made a desperate struggle to secure the road
and voted a large sum of money to it. It remained for Astoria
township, however, to decide the momentous question of railroad or
no railroad, and in a short time the magnificent sum of §300,000
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LIBRARY
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UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 415
was voted by tlie townships. Although certificates of stock were
issued by the Raih'oad Company for the bonds, yet it was generally
understood that the amount was a donation. When the people had
decided in flivor of the road, work was immediately begun, and in
1870 the road was completed.
This marked an era in the prosperity of Astoria. But few busi-
ness buildings of any note were in the town at that time, the most
important being the one built and owned by George W. Kost. The
eastern part of the town, below where Faekler's wagon shop is sit-
uated, was platted for town lots in 1872, although no residences had
been erected there. During the fall of 1870 Nathaniel McLellan
laid out about 48 acres in lots, which is now known as McLellan's
addition. In 1874 John Wolf laid oif an addition. In 1877 and
the following year W. H. Scripps laid off about 26 acres in town
lots. Robert "H. McLellan laid off' the ''R. H. McLellan addition"
in about 1873.
The following is copied from the town records now in possession
of D. M. Stockham, Clerk : " At an election held on Thursday, Sept.
15, 1865, a vote was taken 'for' or 'against' town incorporation;
the boundaries of said town to include the northeast quarter of
sec. 23, 3 N. and 1 E. For incorporation there were 46 votes ;
against it 7." The measure thus being carried, a Board of
Trustees were elected. They were Rutherford Lane, John English,
B. C. Toler, John Shannon, R. F. McLaren and J. W. Green. Ruth-
erford Lane was chosen President and John Boyd Clerk. The
Trustees afterwards, Oct. 27, 1865, chose J. W. Shannon as their
President. The present Board is composed of the following gen-
tlemen : President, B. C. Toler ; Clerk, D. M. Stockham ; Trustees,
J. W. Green, W. H. Emerson, H. C. Mooney, T. M. Mercer and
S. S. Chapman.
The town at present numbers about 1,400 inhabitants, and is
rapidly growing. The buildings of note are W. H. Scripps' bank
buildiug ; Dilworth Carter's dry-goods and hardware store and hall,
conceded to be one of the finest, if not the finest, building of the kind
in the county ; Bonnel Bros.' drug house, Green & Cummings' dry-
goods house, Waggoner & Lutz, hardware, and H. C. Mooney's drug
house, — all worthy of note. The following comprises a list about
complete of the business houses of the town : There are two lumber
yards: Messrs. Coyner & Hettrick are the leading dealers; one grain
elevator, owned by W. H. Scripps ; two flouring-mills, one owned
by Emerson & Tanksley, the other by William Kost ; two saw-
mills, owned respectively by Moore Bros. & Co., and Oviatt &
Robinson ; one tile factory, run by John B. Palmer ; one planing
mill, owned by Mr. Mowery, one cabinet shop, S. W. Hunter,
proprietor ; two carriage and wagon shops, owned by Fackler Bros.,
and McDonald Cox ; two harness shops, run by T. W. Price and
I J. M. Myers ; two hardware dealers, — Dilworth Carter and Wag-
[goner & Lutz ; two jewelry stores ; seven dry-goods and general
26
416 HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY.
stores ; two groceries ; one dentist; three millinery estahlishments;
two restaurants ; one photograijhcr ; three hotels; two barber shops ;
two livery stables ; three meat markets; one clothing store, etc., etc.
R. .T. Nelson is the ])resent ]>ostniaster. The coal interest is one of
tlie most important features of the town. Messrs. Emerson & Skin-
ner are proprietors of the leading mines worked. These gentlemen
have done much toward building up Astoria. They employ eighty
men and the annual shi])nu'ntsare very large. Astoria has assumed
to be quite a shipping point for cattle, hogs, grain, coal and hard-
wood lumber.
CHURCHES AND SOCIETIES.
The Mdhodisf Ephcopal Ch\irch. — This is one of the oldest
Churches in Fulton county. Those old pioneer preachers, Peter
Cartwright, Henry Summers, Peter Brown, Peter Akers and others
who first found the settlers in their cabin homes, came to the old
town of Washington, and afterwards to Astoria, and preached the
(jospel to the early pilgrims in this section. People came for many
miles in those days to hear the traveling preacher, nor were they
dissatisfied if he preached one hour and a half, or even two hours
and a half, as was often the case. This congregation has one of the
liest church edifices in the township. It is located one block north-
west of the square. The congregation is in a prosperous condition.
Rev. G. J. Bonnel is pastor.
United Brethren in Christ. — This Church was organized in 1853
by Rev.O. F. Smith. Tiie building is in the eastern part of the town
and was erected in 187o under the aus))ices of Rev. I. Valentine:
size of building, 40xr)0 feet. Present Pastor, W. B. Shinn ; officers
— Daniel Hatfner, Balseer Lutz, James Lutz, Stephen Merrill, Wni.
Merrill and C. Mathias; membership, 100; contribution per year,
• '1)00; Sunday-school — number of scholars, 80; Superintendent,
Henry Switzer.
Chri'itian Church was organized on the 23d of May, 1863, by
Elder Joseph B. Royal, of Vermont. At times the congregation
has been (piite j)rosp(M'ous, and at other times its firm friends and
.•:up])orters were only few. The present nuunbership is 125. The
annual contribution is 81,000. In 1866 the congregation had be-
come strong enough to erect a church building, which they did dur-
ing that year. It is a good frame structui'c, 3")x()0 i'cvt, and is located
in the western part of the town. The pastor is Elder L. M. Robin-
son. The Elders are \V. T. Toler, (Jeo. W. Kost and B. C. Toler.
There is a good Sunday-school associated with this congregation,
which is under the superintendency of Stej)hen Allen, and has an
average attendance of 85 scholars.
Fre^sbi/feridn Church. — The building in which this congregation
meets is located in the northeast part of town, and is a frame 30x45
feet in size. The Church was organized in 1876 by Rev. H. S.
Beavis. The present membership is 33, and they employ no pastor
HISTORY OF FTTLTOX COUNTY. 417
at present, but contributo about ^400 per year for expenses. The
officers are: Elders — William Kost, William Allen and J. W. An-
derson ; Deacon, J. B. Coyner, J. W. Anderson is Superintendent
of the Sunday-school, which has an average attendance of 4g
scholars.
3Iaso7iic Lodge of Astoria, No. 100. — Dispensation granted Dec.
17, 1850, Samuel McNeil, Master ; chartered in 1851, with the follow-
ing members: Wm. Kerns, Wni. Saxton, Sam'l McNeil, H. S.
Jacobs, DcW. C. Allen, Sam'l Smith, D. G. Tunnicliff, C. B. Cox,
J. H. Hughes, Robert Anderson, A. G. Heron, G. V. Hopkins, A.
I. Fitz and John C. Fitz. Present number of members in good
standing, G4. W. ]M., J. W. Greene; S. W., T. W. Price; J. W.,
W. H. Emerson (also an efficient Secretary). This is the oldest
lodge in Fulton Co.
Ancient Order of United Workrne)i, organized Dec. 17, 1850, with
a membership of 17; J. G. Bound, P. M. W.; J. Sollenberger,
M. W. Present membership 24, out of debt and in a flourishing
condition.
Ancient Lodge of L 0. 0. F., No. 112, was chartered Oct. 15, 1852.
The charter members were J. M. Hunter, H. S. Jacobs, T. J. Kin-
ney, Nelson Howell, A. T. Robertson and AVilliam leader. The Lodge
is now in prosjierous working order and meets every Tuesday night.
The present membership numbers o8. The I^odge room is over
Scripps' bank. The officers are W. W. Bonnel, N. G. ; T. G. Mc-
L:iren, V. G. ; J. R. Sencesich, Sec'y ; M. \j. Tanksley, Trcas.
Globe Encampment, No. 11^6. — Connected with the xVstoria Lodge
of Odd Fellows is this Encampment, which was instituted Oct. 14,
1873. The charter members were Chas. Wilson, W. O. Rand,
Alex. Bailey, Joseph C. Emerson, Wm. A. McClelland, Jas. T. Mc-
Neil, James H Lindsay, Thomas W. Price and Conrad B. Moul.
The present officers are T. W. Price, C. P. ; ^I. L. Tanksley, Scribe.
It meets every alternate Tuesday night.
Personal Sketches. — We would mention personally those citizens
who have been and are m;d<ing the history of Astoria town-
ship and town. The men and women who have developed the
great resources of the townshi|) rightfully, deserve a place in its
local history. From a forest they have made fine farms. They
have dotted it over with fine churches and school-houses, and have
raised a flourishing town where once stood a forest filled with wild
beasts. This people have wrought these vast changes during a half
century, and now they not only are utilizing the magnificent timber
that borders the streams of the township, and are cultivating the
various cereals of this latitude, but are delving into the bowels of
the earth, and from her vast mines of the best coal found in the
State are bringing to the surface and shipping all over this part of
the country thousands of tons. The coal and hard-wood timber sup-
ply of this township is inexhaustible.
418 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
We give below personal sketches of almost all of the leading citi-
zens and old settlers of the township.
Antiel Aniri)H\ fanner, see. G; P.O., Vermont. Ansel Amrine
is a native of Fulton Co., where he was born in 1855. His father,
Milton Amrine, a prominent man of Vermont, is well and fiwor-
ably known. Ansel grew to manhood in McDonough and Fulton
counties and received a good education. With the exception of a
short residence in Texas, where he embarked in cattle speculation,
he has made his home in Illinois. March 27, 1879, he was married
to Miss Wyllie Hamer, daughter of Col. Thomas Hamer, of Ver-
mont.
John W. Anderson, Justice of the Peace and teacher, is a native
of Fulton Co., and was born in the year 1842. He is a son of
John G. Anderson, who is well known in this portion of Fulton
Co., was born in Kentucky in 1815, and in 1835 came to Fulton
Co., where he purchased farm property. Our subject remained upon
the farm homestead until he attained his 14th year, when he accom-
panied his parents to Wapello, Iowa, where he was liberally edu-
cated, and for a period of 10 years was a teacher in the public
schools. He finished his education at Howe's Xormal School, Mt.
Pleasant, Iowa. He then embarked in business with J. H. Coulter
in the boot and shoe trade. At the end of one year he retired from
this business and began firming. In 18H8 he was united in marri-
age with Miss Lizzie, daughter of Franklin Fackler. One year ago
Mr. A. became a ])ermanent resident of Astoria, and embarked in
business with Samuel and Thomas Fackler, dealing in farming
im]>lements. He was soon chosen principal of the })ublic schools
of the town. He has held numerous local offices here, and while a
resident of Iowa was nominated for a seat in the Legislature and
defeated bv onlv a small maioritv. Charles and Harrv are children
born of the marriage above referred to.
B. Bell Andrews, physician, located in Astoria 4 years ago, where
he built up a large ]>ractice. He was born in Ireland in 1841. His
father, Henry Andrews, was a Captain of Scottish Dragoons, was
born in Scotland, where he married Miss Martha Bell. In 1848,
while in command of the arsenal in the city of Galloway, he favored
the insurrectionists and in consequence was com])elled to cross the
ocean with his familv for America. Dr. A. jrniduated at Dela-
ware, Ohio, Literary College and then entered the printing establish-
ment of Harpel Bros., Cincinnati, where he soon became foreman.
In 18(54 he l)egan the study ol' medicine and in 'G7 graduated at
Starling Medical College, Ohio, and received an ad eundoit degree
from the Eclectic Medical College, Philadelphia, and in 1878 Hahne-
mann College of Chicago conferred uj)on him the degree of M. D.
In 1867 he moved to Vicksburg and was appointed by Gen. O. O.
Howard assistant physician of Burea Hospital. He then went to
.lacksonville, III., and was appointed an instructor of printing and
idiomatic construction of sentences. While there he married Miss
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 419
Olive Sealcy. He went to Carrollton and became a public lecturer,
and finally came here.
Astoria Tile Works, Messrs. J. B. Palmer and W. C. Holland,
proprietors. This is a new feature of business in this flourishing
town, but we feel will prove a most valuable one. The clay used is
of a superior quality and the machinery of the most modern make.
One kiln is now in use and others will undoubtedly be needed.
They now have a capacity of 8,000 tiling per day. AVe will say a
few words of a biographical nature in reference to the firm :
J. B. Palmer was born in Brooke Co., W. Va., in 1837, and in
1853 located near Astoria. When the late war broke out he enlisted
in Co. H, 85th 111., and participated in many important battles, as
Perry ville. Savannah, etc. At the close of the war Mr. P. returned
to Astoria, where he has since resided. In 1860 he was united in
marriage with Miss Mary ISIcLaren, of Astoria, who has become
the mother of 4 children. He is the veteran school-teacher of
South Fulton.
W. C Holland, who may be regarded as an old settler of this
county, was born in Smith Co., Tenn., May 7, 1820. Growing to
manhood in his native State he received a good common-school edu-
cation. In 1845 he came to Schuyler Co., 111., where he learned
the carpenter trade and where he married Miss Margaret Kelly,
daughter of William Kelly, of Tennessee. She bore him two chil-
dren. For a number of years prior to his present venture Mr.
Holland followed farming.
John C. Aten, agriculturist; P. O., Astoria. The subject of
this sketch is one of a numerous family of Virginians, whom we
mention elsewhere. John Mas joined in matrimony with Mary
J. Hall, daughter of Robert llall, in Western Pennsylvania.
John came to Illinois in 1855, and since his arrival here has be-
come quite prosperous, and is the owner of a fine farm. There
were born of the marriage referred to 9 children, only 4 of whom
are living, — Xancy A., John C, Wm. II. and Elizabeth. Mr. A.
has held many offices, among them Lieut. Col. of Militia ; Aid to
the Governor with rank of Colonel ; Justice of^ the Peace ; Con-
stable; Deputy Sheriff and School Director.
Richard Aten settled in Fulton Co. nearly forty years ago, and
is therefore a pioneer. He was born in Hancock, W. Va., June
2, 1815, and was the son of William and Jane (Anderson) Aten,
and was the third of a family of 7 children. Growing to manhood
in Virginia he was there married to Miss Ann Peterson. In 1840
he set out for Illinois, and in due time arrived at Astoria. In
1838, previous to his marriage, he had purchased land here, and 2
years later moved into a rough log house without windows, and a
fire-place partly built occupied one corner of the cal)in. Mr. A.,
who had been used to civilization, necessarily had to put uj) with
manv inconveniences in his Western home for a number of vears.
His nearest neighbors it might be said were snakes and salamanders,
420 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
which crept beneath the cabin, over, around and in it. On one
occasion Mrs. A. was greatly frightened by the dropping of a huge
ratth'-snake upon the floor, narrowly missing her head in its descent.
Long years have passed since then, but those early cabin days are
fresh in the memory of these pioneers. They have 4 children, —
Henry J., who resides at Quincy ; John lives in Astoria township;
Cornelius and Lucinda.
Thomas B. Atkinson, dentist, is a native of West Virginia, w^here
he was born April 3, 1838. Until his twenty-first year he resided
in Virginia and Ohio, where he received a lil)eral etlucation. Dur-
ing the war he proceeded to Pittsburg, Pa., and turned his atten-
tion to his present profession. In 1804 he settled in Rushville and
subsequently went to Iowa. In 18G7 he came to Astoria, and has
since been prominently iilentified with the interests of the town.
He has succeeded in building up a large practice. In 1861 he was
united in marriage with Miss E. J. Gambel, by whom he has 4
children, — John, Charley, Mabel and Ada.
Androi- J. Bates, farmer, sec. 6; P. O., Vermont. This gentle-
man ^settled ,in Vermont tp., Fulton Co., April 1, 1854. He was
born in Westmoreland Co., Pa., June 2, 1825. His fother, Daniel
Bates, was a native of the same State, and devoted the principal
part of his life to mercantile ])ursuits; he married Miss Susannah
Bechtel. Of the 10 children she bore, Andrew was the seventh.
Our subject learned the wagon-maker's trade, and worked at that
employment for a number of years. While a resident of Pennsyl-
vania he was married to Miss Eliza J. McGuire. Mr. B. enlisted
as a private in Co. E, 2d Pa. A'^ol., to engage in the war with Mexico.
He participated in the noted battle of Vera Cruz. At the Cerro
Gordo fight he remained under fire about 13 hours. He was in the
noted engagements of Contreras and Churubusco. At the storm-
ing of the city of Mexico he disj)layed no ordinary courage ; once
severely wounded he again and again refused to retire from the
field until a minie ball, s[»ed on its deadly mission, buried itself in
his right limb and he sank to the ground. To-day he carries battle-
scars received in Uncle Sam's service, but receives no pension and
declines any. He has 5 children, — 4 boys and one 1 girl. Mrs.
Bates passed away in 1876, and her remains laid at rest in Ver-
mont cemetery.
Levi BIkIji/, farmer, sec. 17; P. O., Astoria. Levi Bisby is a
native of Maryland, where he was born in 1835. Of his parents
but little is now remembered, as they passed away many years ago.
Levi, while an infant, was adoi)ted by a family that lived in Ohio,
and there he remained until he had attained his tenth year, when
he accompanied his guardian, Andrew Fry, to Astoria township.
Young Bisby liad the advantages of a good common-school education
and grew to mature years of manhood upon a farm. In 1860 he
was married to a daughter of John Aten, Miss Nancy A., who has
become the mother of 9 children, — Bell, Emma A., Sarah, Ella,
Ettie, Lucetta, Alta M. and John W., and an infant.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 421
Benjamin Bolcn, farmer, sec. 8 ; P. O., Astoria. The subject of
this sketch was born in Maryland, Feb. lo, 1806, and is the son of
Jolm Bolcn, native ol" the same State, where he grew to manhood
and married Miss Jane Hood, by whom he raised a family of 5
children. Benjamin, the only son, grew up in Pennsylvania where
his parents settled in 1806. In youth he learned the carpenter's
trade and for some time followed this calling. In 1833 he was
united in marriage to Miss Marv McC'ormick, daughter of Booth
McCormick. In 1834 Mr. B. cast his lot among the residents of
Illinois, settling in Astoria township, where he has since resided.
When the war broke out he enlisted in Co. H, 85th III. Inf., and
after a service of one year was honorably discharged and returned to
his old home. A short time after the enlistment of Mr. B. his
second son, John Irvin, turned from the peaceful farm life to the
battle-field and eventually laid down his life for his country. They
have 5 children, — Matilda, Siirah J., Phoebe J., William and Irvin.
Rev. J. G. Bonucl, pastor of the M. E. church, was born in Bata-
via, Clermont county, Ohio, in January, 1843. In 1850 he accom-
panied his parents, Henrv and Amelia Bonnel, to Griggsville, 111.,
where, when Joseph attained his twentieth year of age, he deter-
mined to devote his time to the ministry, and accordingly proceeded
to Evanston, 111., where he entered the Theological Institute; he
was admitted to the 111. Conference in 1869, and was appointed to
preach. In 1873 he was ordained minister and entered upon his
ministerial duties in the town of Barry, 111., where he labored for
two years, then came to Astoria. During 1874 he entered in part-
nership with W. li. Bonnel in the drug business, and in 1877 they
completed their present commodious and handsome brick building.
In 1875 he built one of the best residences of Astoria.
William W. Bonnel, physician and surgeon, was born in Clermont
county, Ohio, Dec. 23, 1835. His father, Henry Bonnel, was by
trade a saddler and harness-maker, who moved to Griggsville, Pike
Co., 111., in 1850, and. there our subject began the study of medicine
under Dr. J. B. Ensey, an^l at the expiration of three years spent at
Rush Medical College, Chicago, he graduated with high honors.
He first began to practice at Naples, 111., and while residing there
he united his fortunes with Miss Jane E. Smith, daughter of the
Hon. Dennis Smith, of Carthage. Moving to Clayton he remained
until 1865, when he located at his old home in Griggsville, where
his merits as a physician gained for him a large practice; thence to
Clayton, and to Astoria in 1873. Of the marriage with Miss Smith
3 children were born, two of whom are living, — Lizzie and May.
Benjamin F. Bowman, liveryman. Mr. B. has for many years
been engaged in this calling and has met with success. Although
comparatively a stranger in Astoria, he has proven his enterprising
spirit to the people. He came to Astoria in the autumn of last
year and refitted the old City Hotel, and secured a good patronage.
This he recently abandoned. He contemplates erecting a large
422 HISTORY OF PX'LTON COUNTY.
modernly fitted hotel here. In Aug., 1877, he was united in mar-
riage to Miss Marv Moon, a daughter of Asa Moon, of Dallas
City, 111.
John Boyd became a resident of this county in 1840. He was
born in North Carolina in 1812. His father, James Boyd, married
Miss Rachel Danley, who bore him 6 children, of whom John was
the second. He grew up in his native State and learned the trade
of a tanner, and before attaining his 20th year was married to j\Iiss
Margaret Henderson; two years later he started for Illinois, and
during the summer of '35 remained in Indiana, and in the autumn
came to Illinois and located at Rushville and opened a tannery ; at
the end of 5 years he settled just west of Astoria and erected a
tannery, where he continued in business many years. Of the mar-
riage of Mr, and Mrs. B. 7 children are living, — James, John H.,
William F., Richardson W., Nancy J., Rachel M. and Mary E.
After retiring from the tannery he entered actively into general mer-
cantile business; next he tried the hardware trade. The latter
years of his life have been devoted to farming. He has held many
local offices. In 1857 or '58 he was appointed Postmaster, and for
14 years was School Treasurer and Trustee, and has been Supervisor.
jR. W. Boyd, farmer. The gentleman here named is the young-
est son of John Boyd, a pioneer of this county. He was born in
Astoria in 1843; grew up amid pioneer associations and received a
good common-school education. In April, 1869, he was married to
Miss Anna B. English, daughter of John English, the well-known
boot and shoe dealer of Astoria.
Aiaos Brlcker, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 36 ; P. C, Astoria ;
was born in Pennsylvania in 1817. His father, John Bricker, a
farmer by occupation, married Miss Delia Warner. Amos was the
second of 7 children born to them. He grew up and followed
farming, although for a number of years he was employed in a dis-
tillery. In 1839 Miss Sarah Wantze became his wife, and has
borne him 7 children. In 1855 he came to Astoria, thence to Wood-
land tp., and in 1856 settled in Pleasant.' In 1864 Mrs B. was laid
at rest in the Dunkard Cemetery, Woodland tp. In 1868 Mr. B.
married Mrs. Elizabeth Wyand. There was born of this marriage
one child, Katie. While residing in Pleasant tp. Mr. B. held many
of the local offices. He is well known as an honorable farmer and
business man.
/. L. Brown, farmer, sec. 30; P. O., Astoria. Jackson L. Brown,
for the past 36 years a resident of Fulton county, is a native of
Ohio, where he was born in 1823, and passed his boyhood and
youth in Harrison county. In his twentieth year he made his way
to Illinois, stopping at Sharpc's Landing. From there he went to
Farmer's township and became employed as a farm hand. In 1849
he united his fortunes with those of Miss Nancy Grewel. This
marriage resulted in 10 children, — Nancy J., John H., Rebecca,
Geo. W., Mary Ann, Cevilla, Rachel, Andrew J., Nellie E. and
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 423
Nannie B. In 1848 he made his first purchase of land in this town-
ship, and now owns some 300 acres of fine kind. In 1852 he
crossed the plains to California'and remained for 3 years. •
Conrod Bi/ers, farmer, sec. 34 ; P. O., Astoria. The gentleman
here named is a native of Germany, where he was born in Novem-
ber, 1833. Growing to manhood in the Fatherland, he engaged
in farming. At the age of 22 he crossed the ocean, landing at
Baltimore. Shortly afterwards he was united in marriage to Miss
Mary M. Eberhardt, by whom he has 3 children, — Edward C, Ida
E. and Josephine. Ten years ago he located at Decatur, 111.,' and
two years later came to Fulton county.
Jesse Carnahcm, farmer, living upon sec. 18; P. O., Vermont,
He settled in Fulton county in 1846, and very little improvement
was manifest in his neighborhood. Mr. C. is a native of Virginia,
where he was born March 19, 1814; his father, Jesse! Carnahan,
was a farmer by occupation, and while a soldier in the war of 1812
perished at the hands of the red men. Jesse, jr., passed hivS early
days in Virginia, where he was united in marriage with Miss Me-
linda Wilcoxen, daughter of Fielder AVilcoxen, a native of Mary-
land, who also perished near Sandusky in the war of 1812. Mrs. C.
died in Nov., 1877, and was laid at rest in the Vermont.cemetery.
Five children blessed their union, — William, James, Margaret, Mary
and Fielder. Mr. C. has held many of the local offices.
DUworth Carter, merchant. Mr. Carter ranks among the loading
merchants of Fulton county. He was born in Delaw^are Co., Pa., in
1836, and is the eldest of a family of 21 children. By occupation
his father, Amos Carter, was a farmer in Penn., where he married
Miss Ann Mershon, Amo;ig the rugged hills of the Keystone
State Dilworth Carter passed the morning of life, and became ap-
prenticed to learn the trades of the stone and brick-mason, and be-
came an adept at these callings. In 1857 he concluded he would
try a new field of labor and selected Vermont, this county, as the
place. There he became employed as a clerk by Joab Mershon,
the prominent banjcer and merchant of that place. He soon re-
turned to his trade, and in 1859 located at Beardstown and erected
the well-known Park House, an extensive grain ware-house and
other buildings. He then proceeded to Mason Co. and began his
mercantile career, although this particular venture proved unsuccess-
ful. He then went to Bluff City, Schuyler Co., and erected a store-
house and opened a stock of goods, and met with unusual success in
handling cooper's stock. During the autumn of 1865 he came to
Astoria and formed a partnership with J. C. Lutz in the hardware
trade, and the following year purchased his interest. Since then
he has succeeded well as a business man. In 1876 he added to the
attractiveness of Astoria by the erection of a fine store building and
public hall. This is a model building and contains two of the finest
store-rooms in Central Illinois. In one department he has a large
stock of dry goods, and a fine line of hardware in the other. In 1869
424 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
he built his fine residence. In 1861, Oct. 31, he was united in
marriage with Miss E. Branson of Pleasant township, this county.
Five children have been born to them, three of whom are living, —
Nanv D., P^stella and Irviny,'.
B. G. Carter, farmer and stock-raiser, see. 14 ; P. O., Astoria.
Rutherford G. Carter was born Oct. 11, 1827, in Kentucky; in
1829 his parents came to Illinois and settled in Seiiuyler Co. They
remained only two years there when they came to Fulton Co. Here
Mr. C. grew to mature years, having for his pioneer associates many
who are now prominent farmers and business men. In 1855 he
was united in marriage with INIiss Sarah Ann Hudnall, daughter of
Wm. T. Hudnall, a well-known resident of xVstoria tp. They have
6 ciiildren — Gertrude, James S., Sarah E., Frank G., Henry H.
and Mary E, In 1852 Mr. C. crossed the plains to California,
where he remained about two vears. In 1847 he enlisted to serve
against the Mexicans in an independent company from Rushville.
For nearly a year and a half he remained in Mexico.
W. B. Carter. — Among the pioneers of this county, and among
those hardy spirits who have grown with the development of the
State, is our subject. He was born in Monroe Co., Ky., June 13,
1822; his father, William Carter, dissatisfied with his condition in
life in Kentu(ds:y, and no doubt hearing many glowing accounts of
Illinois, determined to make this his home. During the autumn of
1829 he moved into Schuvler Co., where he remained but a short
time. Then he came to this township, where he purchased farm
property and settled dow^n in the routine of farm life. He is still
living and a resident of Woodland tp. William learned the trade
of blacksmithing and for a number of years fi>llowed this calling.
He well remembers the old town of Washington, containing a store,
perhaps two, and a school-house. Mr. C. remembers the site of
Astoria as heavily timbered. A forest covered the site of the
future city; and where the public square now is, Daniel Heffner
and Charles Gearing cut the street through for what is now Broad-
way. Years have flown by since then, and W. Carter has long since
passed the morning and noon of life; l)ut the early scenes of West-
ern life are still j)ictured on his memory. In 184() he was united
in marriage with Lovina Curran, daughter of AVm. Curran, who
settled in Fulton Co, in 1835. They were blessed with 10 children,
5 of whom are living — Lucy A., Helen P., W. J., John L. and .
George C.
William Cissel, a leading farmer of this township and county, is
a native of Pennsylvania, where he was born in 1832. He grew
to manhood in that State, followed farming and learned the trade of
a carjx'ntor. In 1852 he came West, settling in Astoria township,
and shortly afterward] purchased land. In 1855 he was united in
marriage with Miss Anna Sehisler, who is the mother of 4 children
— Sarah J., Angeline, ^Nlary and William. Mr. C. is one of those
enterprising, go-ahead farmers who wastes no time in idleness and is
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 425
to-dav a representative of his class, and owns over 400 acres of
valuable land.
Charles C.'mdddcJc, retired farmer, was born in Jeiferson Co., O.,
Oct. 13, 1814. His father was John Chaddoek, who followed ftiriu-
ing as a life vocation. Charles passed his cliihlhood and youth and
grew to manhood in Ohio, where he received a good common-school
education. In 1836 he was united in marriage with Miss Anna
Barkhurst, a native of Ohio. One vear later he determined to
come further west and accordingly located in Woodland tj)., where
he purchased an eighty-acre tract of land and subsequently increased
his lands to 400 acres. This he brought from a wilderness to a
high state of cultivation. Mr. C. has labored hard upon the
prairies of Illinois and owes his present prosperity to his persistent
hard work. Mrs. C. died in 18()4 and was laid at rest in Sunimum
Cemetery. In 1807 he was married to Mrs, Prudence Gay, daughter
of Levi Sparks, of Ohio, and widow of Chas. Gay, a former mer-
chant of Astoria, who died in 1856. Mr. C. with almost unparal-
leled generositv donated the Quiucy, 111., College the magnificent
sum of $24,000.
S. S. Chapman. Sidney Smith Chapman was born near the mouth
of Black river on Lake Erie, in the vicinity of Amherst, Ohio, Nov.
12, 1827, and is the son of Jacob Kimble and Julia (Griffith)
Chapman. The great-grandfatlier of Jacob K. was Beujamin Chap-
man, who lived in England. He had 3 sons: Benjamin, jr., James
and John. They left their father and went to ditferent countries in
Europe. The first named went to France, James went to Ireland
and John to Scotland. At an advanced age Benjamin, sr., died,
leaving a large fortune to his sons. Bejijamin, jr., was informed of
this fact, and before he returned from France the entire estate had
been confiscated by the English Government. Benjamin then came
to the U. S. and huided in South Carolina. After this James re-
turned from. Ireland, and John came some years later to the
U. S. and stopped near Salem, >Mass., and was there during the
period of the witchcraft and persecution. John had 13 children, of
whom Isaac and Adam, the youngest, are the only ones now
remembered. Adam 3 years ago lived in Ohio at the age of 95,
Isaac, the grandfather of Sidney S., had 5 sons and 3 daughters, Uriah,
Elenius, Daniel, Isaac and Jacob, twins, Roxy, Olive and Rebecca.
Daniel now lives in Pawnee Co., Kansas, at the age of 84 years.
Jacob K., the last mentioned, was the father of our subject, and
was born in New York in 1803. Isaac, sr., moved from Mass. to
Cataraugus Co., N. Y., where Uriah and Daniel married ; the former
had one son named Elenius, and died ; his widow now lives in N. Y.
Elenius, sr., died in N. Y., and Daniel, Isaac and Jacob K. moved
to Ohio, where the latter married in 1825 or '26, and went to farm-
ing. In the spring of 1832 or '33 he took ids car|)et-sack upon his
back and started on foot and alone through the thick forests of Ohio
and Ind., and came to Ft. Dearborn, now Chicago. He rested there 2
426 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
days and proceeded to Jackson Co., Mo. He remained there 6 weeks,
when he started back the same road he went and reached his home
in the fall, after traveling 1,400 miles. In the spring of 1838 he
started with his family to Illinois, but stopped in Ind. until 1839,
when he again started and finallv landed in Hancock Co., 111., in
1840 or '41. In 1845 his wife died, and in 1846 he moved to Wis-
consin, and in '47 to Ohio, and in 1854 to Macomb, 111., where he
lived one year, when he again returned to "Wis., and in '68 to Ohio,
where, Jan. 15, 1870, in Claridon, he died. His children were Sidney,
Franklin, Ali)ert B., Corydon C, Willard D., Orson, Barbara and
and Sarah : all are living save Willard, who was killed in the
Rebellion. Our subject's grandparents on his mother's side were
Germans.
S. S. remained in Ohio until he was 10 years old, when he came
to Illinois with his parents. When they went to Wisconsin he was
sick with the "chills" and did not go. In Aug., 1845, he went to
Macomb, where with the exception of a season upon a farm a few
miles east of that city and one year at Bardolph in the same county,
he lived till 1868. On Xov. 3 of that year he moved to Vermont,
this county, and in 1872 to Chicago, and returned to this county,
locating in Astoria, in 1876. His father was a mechanic and labored
at ship-carpentering. He also adopted the life of a mechanic, and
has been engaged at almost all the trades at diiferent times, and
as a mechanic possesses an ingenious mind. During the years he
lived at Chicago and for several years previously, he was engaged
in contracting and building, at which business he is now employed.
He enioved but limited advantages to obtain an education, the earlv
years of his life being passed upon the frontier at hard labor.
He was united in marriage with Rebecca Jane Clarke, March 30,
1848. She was the daughter of David and Eliza Swink (Russell)
Clarke, and was born in Kentucky Nov. 20, 1829. Her parents
were pioneers of this State, The former was born Sept. 28, 1799,
and the latter July 3, 1805, both in Ky., and she died Sept. 18,
1875. There were born to S. S. and Rebecca J. Chapman 10
children : Frank M., born Jan. 1, '49 ; Emma E., Oct. 24, '50; Chas.
C, July 2, '53; Eliza H., Feb. 21, '55, died Sept. 13, '60; David
E., Feb. 6, '57, deceased Oct. 27, '57 ; Christopher C, Aug. 23, 'oS ;
Wm. D., Feb. 4, '61, deceased Dec. 30, '61 ; Samuel J., Oct. 22, '62 ;
Dollie E., Aug. 14,'64, and Luella, May 22, '70. All of them were
born at Macomb save Columbus and Luella, the former of whom
was born at Bardolph and the latter ai Vermont. Mrs. Rebecca
Chapman dit'd suddenly on the evening (jf Jan. 2, 1874, in Chicago,
and was laid at rest in the cemeterv at Macomb. Sidnev S. was
again married Dec. 30, 1875, to Ann Eliza Clarke, a sister of his
former wife. Two children, Ira and an infant, have been born to
them. Emma E. married L. W. B. Johnson Dec. 18, 1873, and
now resides in Kansas.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 427
S. W. Clark, faniKU- ;iml .stock-raiser, sec. 1 ; P. O., Astoria.
Samuel W. Clark was horn in Belmont Co., O., March 29, 1819.
His father, John Clark, it is sujiposed, was a native of Maryland,
where he married INIrs. Elizabeth (Ireen, by whom he had 10 chil-
dren. Samuel was the younj^ost. He married Miss Eliza McEad-
deu, in his native county. During the autumn of 1844 Mr, C. came
to 111., locating in Vermont township, and the following spring
in Astoria townshij), where he bought 1(30 acres of land very little
improved. The township was then heavily timbered, but he set
about clearing and now has a well improved farm. All that Mr. C.
owns to-day is to his own credit, as it was won by persistent and
hard work led by an energy of purpose which never flagged. The
marriage of ^Ir. and Mrs. Clark was blessed with 10 children, 8 of
whom are living, — Thomas H., Nancy E., James F., Charles W.,
George O,, Fannie M., Nelson and Robert L.
Dr. Russell Coe, who has gained a large local and State reputation
as a physician and surgeon, is a native of Towanda, Pa., Avhere he was
born in 1813. His father, James Coe, was a Presbyterian preacher,
who resides in Clermont Co., O., and is now u])wards of 103 years
old and still active. Russell having determined to study medicine,
made his way to Cleveland in 1843 and entered the Western Reserve
College, at which he graduated with honor in 184G. He first
located at Beardstown, 111., and not only i)iiilt up a good reputation
there but at St. Charles, ]\Io., Mt. Sterling, 111., and other places.
While living in ]Mo. he put upon the market the famous cough
syrup that bears his name, and that to-day finds such a large sale in
the Union. In 1873 he was united in marriage to Mrs. Willis, of
Garnett, Kan. He then located at Astoria; in 187") moved to Ohio
and in 1878 returned, and now he enjoys a good practice.
3Iartin Cook, deceased, was a well-known resident of Astoria.
He was born in Cobnnbiana Co., ()., May 7, 1847, and passed his
vouth in Sandusky Co. Desirous of obtaining a good education he
entered Oberlin College. In an early day he located in Browning,
Schuyler Co., 111., where he taught the jmblic school as })rinci]>al, and
where he married Miss Ida L. Bader, daughter of Jeremiah Bader,
a native of Germany, who emigrated to this country many years
ago and settled in Pennsylvania. There he nuirried Miss Sarah
Thompson. ]Mr. leader nu^ved to Ohio, then to Schuyler Co., where
he died. Mr. Co(^k taught school for many years of his life in the
towns of this conntv, and latterly was ])rincij)al of the schools at
Astoriii. After a life of usefulness he passed away. His death oc-
curred May 11, 1879. He was a man highly respected and es-
teemed. Mrs. Cook resides in Astoria.
David Corhetf, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. o; P. O., Vermont;
was born in Harrisou'iJCo., O., June 11, 1818, and is the son of
Samuel Corbett, a native of Ireland. In the flush of early manhood
he crossed the ocean to this country, but just where he settled is not
known, probably in Ohio, where he followed farming and married
428 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Mrs. Elizabeth Maxwell, and they had (3 eliildreu, of whom
David was the youiiijest but one. In Harrison Co. David united
his fortunes with Miss Susan Harrison, daughter of Wm. Harrison.
In 1842 Mr. C. set out for the West, eventually reaehing Astoria
township, where he worked as a eoo])er. In 1844 or '45 he made
his first purehase of land, consisting of 110 aeres. As it was heavily
timbered he labored hard for many years, determined to make a
home for his family ; how well he has sueceded subsequent years have
shown. It may truly be said of him that he is a model farmer and
deserves all that his industry has made. The marriage of ^Ir. and
Mrs. Corbett was blessed with 8 children, 6 of whom are living, —
John, Granville, Albert, Catherine, Samuel and Oscar.
McDonald Cox, carriage and wagon-maker, has been a resident of
this flourishing town for upwards of 20 years, and during the past
16 years has controlled a large trade in Fulton Co. He is an ener-
getic and skillful workman. He erected a portion of his present
factorv in 1872, completing it in 1875 and '76, and proposes to
make another addition this year. In various ways Mr. C. has shown
his enterprise and interest in Astoria. He has erected lumber
houses, one shop, now Bowman's livery barn, and also the building
occupied by Bowman as a hotel, and two substantial residences. In
1865 he was united in marriaire to Miss Minerva Bovd, dauirhter of
John Boyd, sen., by whom he has -S children, — Walter, Hattie and
George.
J. B. Coi/ner, lumber dealer, located in this thriving town during
the month of February, 1871. He is a native of Augusta, Va., and
was born in the year 1842. His father, Harrison H. Coyner, was
a Southern planter, and was a gentleman of considerable means be-
fore the war. The subject of this sketch obtained a liberal educa-
tion. During: the war and at the fall of Vicksburg he concluded
to C28 his fortunes in the West, and accordingly in 1863 he came to
Astoria. Here he engaged in contracting and l)uilding, and put up
some of the^est buildings in this section, [n 1873 he purchased
property from B. F. Linn and opened a lumber yard where he has
since carried on a large trade. In 1866 he was married to Miss
Ella E., daughter of William Hettrick, of Astoria tp. Of this
marriage 6 children were born, — Mary E., William, John W.,
Charles E., Georije H. and Olive Bell.
B. L. Craiffo, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 23; P. O., Astoria;
was born in Tuscarawas Co., O,, in 1849. His father, David Craigo,
■was a native of Green Co., Pa., and was a farmer; he married Miss
Larina Dane Simpson, who b<.ire him 9 children, 7 ol whom are now
living. About 1845 David Craigo emigrated to Ohio, where he
passed the remainder of his life, and where our subject attained his
majority. Xine years ago he came to Astoria tp., where he has since
acquired a valuable farm property of 111 acres. In 1876 he was
united in marriage to ^liss Carrie S. Sharpe, daughter of Jacob
Sharpe, a native of New York State.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY, 429
Lewis Cramer, farmer, sec. 29 ; P. O., Astoi'ia. In 1827, j\Iay
30, there was born to Sanmel and Elizabeth Cramer, in Knox Co.,
O., a son, the snbjeet of this biography. At an early age he accom-
panied his parents to Vermont township, this county, and the fol-
lowing winter located in this township. In 1849 he married Miss
Nancy Downcn, daughter of Josiah Downen. Their children num-
ber 7, — Eliza J., Elizabeth, Velila, Charles, John, Rachel and Mon-
roe. Mr. C. first purchased 80 acres of poorly improved land, but
now owns a 180-acre well-improved farm.
David Danner, farmer, sec. 18 ; P.O., Astoria. The subject of
this biography was born in York Co., Pa., in 1828. His ancestry
can be traced back to an early date in the pioneer history of the
Keystone State. While a youth David learned the wagon-maker's
trade, and for a short time worked as a journeyman. In 1847 he
took unto himself a wife in the person of Miss Grissie Ann Baker,
who has borne him 10 children. In 18(i4 Mr. D. came to Illinois
and located in Astoria tp. In 1865 he purchased his present farm.
Jacob Danner, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 22 ; P. O., Astoria ;
was born near Dayton, O., May 3, 1849. His father, Jacob Dan-
ner, next mentioned, is a native of Pennsvlvania. In an earlv dav
he settled in Fulton Co., where he ranks among the wealthiest agri-
culturists of the county. Jacob, jr., passed his boyhood days in
Fulton Co. ; received a liberal education, and early in life became
identified with the farming interests. In 1873 he was united in
marriage with Miss Hannah M. Thompson, daughter of Lewis
Thompson, of Pennsylvania.
Jasob Dxnner was born in York Co., Pa., in the year 1800. His
father, David Danner, was also a native of the Keystone State.
His ancestry can be traced back for 200 years, when Switzerland
was under German rule. Mr. D. relates that his ancestry belonged
to that class of Christians known as Dunkards ; that through religious
persecutions they werecomi)elled to leave their native land, and ac-
cordingly settled in Pennsylvania shortly after William Penn arriv-
ed. David Danner was married to Marv Stand)au<2:h, who bore him
6 children, Jacob being the eldest. He lived in Pennsylvania until
he attained his 33d year, where he had in the meantime learned the
carpenter and cabinet-maker's trade, and was married to Miss Catha-
rine Stambaugh. In 1833 he moved to Ohio, where for a time he
became a distiller. In 1849 he settled in Schuyler Co., 111., and the
following year settled upon a farm in this township, where he now owns
800 acres of fine land. Mrs. Danner w^as laid at rest ten years ago
on the 24th of January. Their marriage was blessed with 8 chil-
dren. Those living are Solomon, Henry, .lacob, Sarah and Caroline.
It may be truly said of Mr. D. that he not only ranks among our
most opulent farmers, l)ut he is known as among the most generous
citizens of Fulton Co,
Solomon Danner, agriculturist, son of the above, was born in
York Co., Pa., June 15, 1829, and was about 3 years old when his
430 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
parents settled in Bntler Co., O., wliere he grew to manhood, and
for some years became employed on the Cincinnati & Toledo Canal.
In the sprinij; of 1849 he came to this county, where he has since re-
sided, and has succeeded in accumulatinsx considcrnl)le wealth. In
18o7 he was married to a daughter, ^Nliss Elizabeth, of James Litch-
field, who ranks among the early settlers of the county. Eight
children have been born to them, 7 of whom are living, — Sarah C,
Jane H., Jacob L. (deceased), Henry, Samuel B., William J., John
and Albert.
3Iosc's L. Dcrry, farmer, sec. 1 ; P. O., Vermont. Mr. D. is a
native of Harrison Co., O., where he was born on the 8th of Oct.,
1840. His father, Solomon Derry, moved to Illinois with his family
and settled in Vermont tp., this county, where he still resides.
Moses grew to manhood in that township, and while living there
was united in marriage with Phoebe Hoppings, by whom he has three
children.
WiUiam F. Dcrrij, farmer, sec. 3; P. O., Vermont; was born in
Fulton Co., in July, 1850. His fither, Wm. Derry, is one of the
nn)St prominent farmers of the towushi}). A\ m. F. grew up in this
county and received a good common-school education. From boy-
hood he has followed farminji;. In 1874 he was united in marriage
with Miss Anna, daughter of John Keller, of Pa. Of this marriage
two children were born, — Rosa B. and Jessie ]M.
George D. Duncan, merchant, is a native of Pennsylvania, where
he was born in 1835. On attaining his majority he made his way
to Fulton Co., locating at Vermont. He engaged in the saddlery
and harness line of trade there. After a successful business of two
years, owing to ill-health he engaged in farming for some time, al-
though for 9 subsequent years he dealt in the same business at
Bushnell, 111. He settled at Astoria in 1873, and in company with
Mr. S. Fackler, now a leading em|)love of ^Ir. Scri]>))s, embarked in
active business'in the thriving town. After a })artnership of 3 years
it was dissolved, and since then ]Mr. 1). has transai'ted a successful
business as a drv-croods merchant and jjrocer.
ir. H. Emerson, of the firm of Emei-st)u ct Tanksley, millers and
coal dealers, is a native of Cincinnati,' O., where he was born in
1833. He is the second child of Joseph C. Emerson, who settled
at Cincinnati when it bore the primitive name of Ft. Washington.
Here he married Miss Mary A. Collard, who bore him G children.
Joseph C. moved to Indiana, entered iijion a mercantile career
and succeeded well, and became a prominent citizen of the State.
He died in 1845. Mrs. E. is still living and resides near Cincinnati.
For a number of years the subject of this sketch was identified with
the milling and grain business of Cincinnati. Considerable of his
early life was spent upou the Pacific "slope. Ilc'therefengaged in
the furniture trade and was the pioneer dealer north of San Fran-
cisco. In 1856 he returned to Cincinnati and remained until the
Rebellion broke out, when he entered the army as a sutler and rcr
>«r^
^■^.
^^..r
" •. '.'': -: \ Oil
X
.1
'^.^^^/^
COUNTY JUDSe
Of THE
UMVeHblTY Of ILllNOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 433
mained for three years. He was wouiuled and compelled to resign,
and soon settled near Dixon, 111., and engaged in general merchan-
dising. In J 870 he located in Astoria, where in connection with
Mr. Jolm Skinner he began to develop the coal interest of tl e
place. Messrs. Emerson (t Skinner began prospecting and soon
sank two shafts wiiit^h afford a sii})erior quality of coal. They ship
to the States of Missouri and Iowa and over this State. During the
winter season 25 car-loads are shipped daily. He is also partner in
the White Oak Mills, built in 1878 and has four run of burs. In
18o() he was married to Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Capt. A. D.
Wilson, one of the pioneers of the Western waters and the first
to run a steam-boat up the Muskingum river.
Isaac Enqle, deceased, was born in Virginia in 1808. In an
early day his parents, Ijcvi and Nancy P^ngle, settled in Ohio,
where Isaac grew to manhood. In 1826 he came to Illinois and
located in ^Menard Co., and March 8, 1831, at Sugar Grove, he was
married to Cynthia Powell, of Ohio. In 1836 or '37 they came to
Fulton Co. and moved into a round-log cal)in, where all the expe-
riences of pioneer life were passed through. Although for a num-
ber of years the family lived in frugality, game was abundant upon
the pioneer table, and wild honey gathered in large quantities
served to sweeten their huml)le repast, yet for many years Isaac
Engle struggled ban for a livelihood in his forest home, and not
until the wliistle of the locomotive startled the trapper and hunter
into a sense of the fast approaching civilization did he bring his
farm into anything lik(> cultivation. Pearly in life he was led to
believe in a higher tribunal than exists upon earth, and thus having
made his peace with his Maker lie awaited the summons that called
him to a "home not made with hatids, eternal in the Heavens,"
which occurred April 21, 1875, and he was laid at rest amid the
scenes of his eventful pioneer life. AVith his wife, who had con-
tributed not a little to their prosperity, he left a family of 9 chil-
dren. Isaac, the eldest son, has been twice married; his first wife
was Matilda Doty, the second. Miss Emma Sn)ith ; Andrew mar-
ried Susan Mitchell; Jose])h man-icd Ellen Wunderlich ; Elizabeth
is the wife of Joab Darrow ; Thomas is the husband of Rebecca
Rush ; Ivouisa the wife of Nathaniel Smith ; J3runetta married
David Bollinger; ^]mily, S, A. Russell, and Stephen, Cynthia Hath.
J. C Ei)f/lisl), boot and shoe-maker. James C. English is a
native of Indiana, where he was born in 1856. His father, John
English, was born in lielmont Co., O., where he followed farming
to some extent; and having a liberal education, at the early age of
16 became a teacher in the public schools. During the fall of 1864
he moved to Illinois, locating in Astoria, where he opened a boot
and shoe store, having acquired the trade in Indiana. Here he has
gained a reputaon as a superior workman, and no one is more uni-
versally respected in the community.
Franklin Fackler, retired blacksmith and pioneer of Fulton Co.
27
434 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Anion<2; tlioso battlin<j for an existence in an early day none, per-
hiTps, (lisplaved more enertiy and plnek tlian Mr. F. He was born
in the Old Dominion, Dee. •'), INOT. His father, Sumnel Faekler,
wa.s a native of Va. and a tanner by occupation; he married Miss
Elizabeth Fent<»n, Avho bore him two children. Frnklin, the
younger, i)asscd his youth in Va., where he learned the trade of
blacksmith. In 1828 he was married to Caroline Deary, She was
born in Va. During- the autumn of 18.'55 Mr. F. crossed the prairies
of Illinois, and arrived in Astoria tp., where shortly afterwards he
ojxMicd a blacksmith shop in the old town of Washington. He was
soon found to be a good smith and ]>ionecrs came from far and near
to his shop. In 18.']7 he located at Astoria and opened the first
shop in the place, and for 44 years was well known as a good work-
man. His marriage was blessed with 8 children, — 0 of whom are
living.
,/. T. Fackhr, of the firm of Faekler Bros., carriage and wagon-
makers, is a native of Astoria, and was born Oct. 28, 18-10, a son
of Franklin Faekler, whose sketch is given just above. Thomas,
in sj)('akiug of his earliest recollections, says he remendiers when
Astoria contained i)ut tew inhabitants, and that Ciiarles Gilbert and
other pioneer merchants transacted but a small business. He ])assed
his life thus far in Astoria and vicinity, where, in early life, he be-
came a])])r('nticed to the trade of wagon and carriage-making and
blacksmithing, and for many years has been prominently identified
with the business interests of the j)lace. In 18(51 he was married
to INIiss Harriet C. Tracv, by whom he has 7 children, — 5 bovs
and 2 girls.
Sfninie/ /'orAVrr, head salesman in the dry-goods and grocery house
of Wm. Scripj)s, the well-known banker and merchant; was born
in Astoria in 1842. His father, Franklin Faekler, is sketched above.
Samuel grew to manhood in Astoria, and received a liberal education,
and first entered the employ of Mr. S('rij)ps, as a clerk, ^^'ith the
exception of '.I years, then in business with (J. D. Duncan, Mr. F.
has continued in the service of Mr. Scripps, attaining the position of
head clerk. In 18()8 he was married to ^liss Isabel Price, daughter
ofBenj. Price, of Penn. (ico. D., Lillie B., Nellie C, and Grace
M. are their children. Mr. F. is a consist(Mit and active member of
the M. E. Church.
C)oper Fiirr, retii-ed flirmer. There ari' but few agriculturists in
Fult(»n better or more favorably known than the subject of this
sketeii. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1807. His lather, Amos
Farr, was also a native of the Kevstone State, and a millwright l)y
occupation. He was married while residing in that State to Miss
Susan Fox, by whom he had 7 children. Cooper being the second.
About 1810 this family moved to Ohio, where our sid)ject attained his
majority, ^^'hile there, in the year 1828, he was united in marriage
with Miss Ada Linn, a native of Penn. In 1836 he concluded to
settle in Illinois. Accordingly, in a covered wagon, after one month
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 435
of travel, he landed in Astoria township, where he pnrehased IGO
acres of heavily timbered land, whicii he set about elearin*; with en-
ergy. The iirst year lie brought about 4 acres under cultivation,
and year by year he cleared more and was soon on the road to pros-
perity. He built on his arrival a rough log cabin, and the first
■winter he lived rath(>r roughly. Ventilation was quite abundant ;
although no window or door adorned the cabin, yet the wind, sun-
light, I'ain and snow o-ained free access through the cracks between
the logs. He now owns otiO acres of well improved land. The
marriage of INIr. and INIrs. Farr was blessed with 11 children, 7 of
whom are living, — Eliza D., Elizabeth, Susan, Mary E., William,
John and Samuel.
Jo/? n i^a/->', farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 10; P. O., Vermont.
John Farr, as well as others who bear the same name, are well known
to the people of this community, wIum'c they have resided for many
years. John is the second son of ('ooj)er and Edith Farr, and was
born on the old farm homestead in Astoria township, July 23, 1842.
Growing up amid pioneer associations he received a good common-
school education. In 1863 he was united in marriage with Miss P.
Kane, (laughter of Jesse Kane, a native of Ohio. Belle B. and
Cooper are their two children.
John D. Fcnfon, city expressman, is a native of Virginia, of
which State his father was also a native. He was born in
1835. His fither, Nathan Fenton, was a farmer by occu])ation.
He married Miss Marv J. Derrv, and they had 5 children, of whom
John was the seeond. In 1837 Nathan Fenton settled in Fulton
Co., where he died. John grew up here and received a fair educa-
tion. In 1855 he was united in marriage with Miss Eliazabeth
AVestphal, daughter of. Edward Westphal, of Ohio. In 18(32 Mr.
F. entered Uncle Sam's service, enlisted in Co. H, 85th 111. Inf.,
for 3 years; was in the battles of Chickamauga, Kenesaw Mountain,
Atlanta, Savannah, Bentonville, etc. At the close of the war he
returned to Astoria where he owns pro|>erty. James and Ettie,
deceased, \\'illiam, Mary, Lula and Dora are the children born to
him and wile.
Edward Foster, farmer, sec. 18 ; P. O., Vermoiit. Upon the 18th
of Aug., 1818, there was born to Edward and Ann (Woodrow)
Foster in the State of Maryland a son, the subject of this biograj)hy.
His father was a wheelwright by trade, bnt in after years he farmed.
Edward was the eldest of a family of 5 children. At the age of 16
he went with his parents to Ohio. In 1842 he took unto himself a
wife in the person of Miss Mary Mercer, who became the mother of
6 children, all of whom are livinti;. In 1851 ]\Ir. F. came to
Astoria and bought a small farm which has grown to 160 acres.
Nov. 12, 1859, Mrs. F. was laid at rest in Salem cemetery. In 1861
he married a sister of his first wife. Miss Sarah A. ISTcrcer, who
bore him one child. Mrs. Sarah Foster died in 1876. In 1878
he contracted marriage with Miss Emma Green, of Fayette county,
Pennsylvania.
436 HISTORY OF fulton county.
Willinm Foster, former, see. 18; P. O., Vermont; is a native of
Noble Co., O., where he was born Aug;. 25, 1843. He was 8 years
of age when his parents settled in Fulton Co., where young Foster
passed his voutli among pioneer associates, many of whom are now
substantial farmers. Aug. 8, 1862, he enlisted in Co. F, 84th 111.
Inf, under command of Col. Waters. Proceeding to the front from
Quincy he participated in the most noted battles of the great war,
as Stone R!ver, Lookout Mountain, Mission Pidge, etc. The regi-
ment remained under fire, during Sherman's march to the sea, for
105 days. Some months alter the fight at Nashville, Mr. F. was
honorably discharged, and returned to his old iiome and has since
followed farming. Oct. 11, 18()6, he was married to Miss Frances,
dausrhter of Jacob Derry. The children born of this marriage are
Clara B. and ^linnic P.
0. P. Fry, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 9; P. O., Astoria. The
grandfather of Oliver P. Frv was a native German, and when the
Revolution began he enlisted under the l)anner of the new Rejiub-
lic. Long prior to the war he came to Pennsylvania. He married
at the close of the war. Miss Cox, by whom he raised a family of 4
children. Andrew Fry, the father of O. P., the second child, in
youth became employed in a machine shop and helped to build the
first boiler in Brownsville, Pa. He came to Knox Co., O., where
he married Susanna Cramer, who bore him 3 children, 2 of whom
yet survive. In 1845 Andrew Fry came to Astoria tp., began to
farm, and proved successful ; he died during the winter of '78. The
death of Mrs. F. occurred 4 vears prior to that of her husband.
Oliver was born in Coshocton Co., O., Feb. 18, 1824. In 1869 he
was married in Rushville to Miss Lucy, daughter of Dr. E. Clark.
Mr. Fry has held many of the official positions of his townshi}) and
always with satisfiiction.
G'. W. Gail), farmer, sec. 19 ; P. O., Ray, Schuyler Co. G. W.
Gain is the youngest child born of the marriage of James W. Gain
to Matilda Sergeant. James Gain was a native of England and
probably followed the oecuj)ation of a baker, as this was his calling
for a nmnber of years after his arrival in America, Mhich was about
1840. He came from Xew Y(trk city to Schuyler Co., 111., and en-
gaged in farming. He died in that county in the thirty-fifth year
of his age. With his wife, who is still living, he left a family of 3
children. George was born in Schuyler Co., in 1843. When the
war l)r()ke out he enlisted in Co. J^, 119th 111. Inf , and |)articipated
in 8 battles. He was among the last who left Incle Sam's service,
being honorably discharged in Aug., 1865. He married, in Oct.,
1866, Miss Melissa H. Mayo, by whom he has 4 children, — "William,
Mary E., George W. and Ettie. In 1869 he bought his present
farm and moved to this county.
Robert G((lc is a native of England, where he was born in 1836.
In 1867 he was united in marriage near London with Miss Eliza
Wade, daughter of Robert and Mary Ann ^^'ade, by whom he has
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 437
four children, — WilHnni, Elizabeth, Caroline and Amelia. Robert
Gale is the son of John and Elizabeth (Shaw) Gale, and was the
eldest of a family of 1 1 children. He was raised on a farm. In
1869 he crossed the Atlantic for the New World and landed in
Canada. He made his way to Chicago, thence to Stark Co., and after
a short residence there located in this tj)., where he continues to
reside, on sec. 3o ; he is engaged in farming. P. O., Astoria.
Caleb W. Gibbs, deceased, was a well-known resident of this
county. He was born in Fayette Co., Pa., Mar. 14, 1.S21. His
father, Jonah Gibbs, was also a native of the Keystone State. Ca-
leb Gibbs united in mirriage, Oct. 3, 1848, with Miss Sarah, daugh-
ter of Booth McCormick. In 1844 Mr. G. came to Astoria tp.,
and the following autumn purchased a farm of 80 acres, to which he
has added more. His death occurred May 22, 1877. ^Ir. G. is de-
scribed as a model farmer, an upright citizen and an honorable busi-
ness man. To the care of his wile he left 3 children, — A Ifred, Melinda
and Allen D. Mrs. Gibbs was born in Pennsylvania April, 9, 1831.
John A. GiUil((ndj farmer, sec. 6 ; P. O., Vermont; is a native of
Missouri, where he was born Dec. 9, 1823. His fither, Hiram A.
Gilliland, was a native of North Carolina, and in an early day
moved to Missouri, where he was united in marriage to Miss Matil-
da M. Saeley, daughter of Eziekel Seeley. There were born of this
marriage 11 children, 10 of whom grew to m\ture years. John
was the second sou. On attaining his m ijority in 184"), located at
Rushville, this State, and shortly afterwards moved to Springlield,
where he learned the brick and stone-mason trades. He soon be-
came quite extensively engaged as a contractor and builder. April
14, 1854, he was united in marriage with Miss Lucinda Owen,
daughter of Dr. Owen, one of the origintd founders ol' Astoria. In
18o5 Mr. G. purchased the tannery situated at Astoria and owned
by John Boyd. He was (piite successful here and gained the confi-
dence of the j)e()ple by honest dealing. He then became a jxirtner
of W. II. (ireen in the harness trade, havinir sold his tannerv to
Chas. Chaddock, and dissolving partnership with Mr. Green in 18G7
he purchased 100 acres of land in Astoria township, and now owns
140 acres. He has held manv local offices. Of the marriapc above
referred to 4 children were born, three of whom are living, — James
H., Chas. C. and Ernest A.
W. A. Orach/, baker and confectioner, arrived in Astoria March
10, 1879, and has already succeeded in building up a large local trade.
Hfc was born in Fairfield Co., ()., Aug. 1, 1.S47. His father, Oliver
Grady, was a native of Pennsylvania and a tailor by occuj)ation ; he
moved to Ohio in an early day, where he was married to Aliss Eliza-
beth Hoopes, by whom he had 3 ('hildren ; W. A. the eldest. W.
A. grew up in Ohio and came to 111. in 1871, and settled in Ver-
mont. In 1873 he was united in marriage with Miss Harriet,
daughter of Aaron Hickson, (^f Va. Hattie M. and ^^'illiam R.
are their children.
438 HISTORY OF FULTOX COITN-TY.
Daniel Haffner, farmer and stock-raiser, was born near the Shen-
andoah Valley in the Old Dominion, in 1814. His father, Andrew
Haffner, was a native of the Keystone State. He moved to Vir-
ginia earlv in life, and there married Marv Tharbanj>:h, bv whom
he had 10 children, 9 of whom ^rew to mature years, and 3 of whom
are living at present, — Daniel, Samuel, a farmer of this township,
and Margaret, the wife of Sumuel McClung, also of this township.
Daniel grew to manhood in Virginia, and married Miss Diana Lutz.
Eight children blessed the union, 7 of whom are living, — Balseer,
Catharine P., Sarah R., Samuel H., Betsy H., AA'iiliam and Andrew.
In 1852 Mr. H. landed in this township and purchased 160 acres oi'
land, but now owns more.
John ]V. Hall ct* Son, attorneys at law. The senior member of
this firm is i well-known lawyer. He Avas born in Va. March 22,
1833. When still a youth he accom])anied his parents to Licking
Co., O., and at the city of Granville he fitted himself for the business
pursuits of life, and for a numi)er of years worked at the tailor's
trade. But he had a desire to become an attorney and studied late
and early, and for three years read under P. W . Gallagher, a talented
attorney. In 1855, in Fulton county, he was married to Miss N.
C. Taylor; in 1854 settled at Cuba. From there he went to Bush-
nell and was appointed Postmaster by Pres. Lincoln. Resigning
he went to Chillicothc, Mo., and was appointed on LT. S. Secret
Service. After the war, went to Elmwood, then to Cuba, both
places as a merchant, and after much travel settled in Astoria in iHll.
Of the marriage above spoken of 0 children were born, of whom but
one survives, E. C, the law partuer of his father.
James Ij. Haney, farmer, see. 5 ; P. O., Vermont. James Haney
was born in Fayette Co., Pa., in Aug., 1852. In 1857 his parents
located in Fulton Co., where James received a good common-school
education. In 1878 he was united in marria<re with Miss Edith A.
Nelson, daughter of J. O. Nelson, of this county.
Lewis Haney, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 5 ; P. O., Vermont ;
was born July 1, 1819. His father, Samuel Haney, was a farmer by
occupation, and married Miss Rachel Moore. They reared a fam-
ily often children. Lewis, the seventh child of this marriage, re-
ceived a common-school education, and from boyhood engaged in
agricultural |)ursuits. In 1844 he was married to Miss Mary Ann
Ridgely of Pa. This union has been blessed with 4 chihh'en, 3 of
whom are living, — Caroline, John S. and Perry B. In Dec,
1850, Mrs. H. Avas laid at rest in the village cemetery. The following
year he was married to Miss Ann Moulton, by whom he had 5
children, 4 of whom are living, — James L., Mary A., Rebecca V.
and Margaret M. In 1857 Mr. H. settled in this township.
Samuel Heath, farmer and stock-iaiser, sec. 21 ; P. O., Astoria.
The above-named gentleman ranks among the good farmers of this
township. He was born in Alleghany Co., Pa., Dec. 19, 1832.
At an early day his parents emigrated to Ohio, where our subject
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 439
grew to manhood. In 1855 he ventured further west, locating in
Astoria townshij), wliere he lias since i'ollowed agricultural pursuits.
He joined hands in holy wedlock with Miss Mary Landis in ](S62.
Five of the <S children she has borne arc living. Their names are,
Alta M., May F., \Vm. H. Frank E. and Ralph A.
>?. A. Hsnderson, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 6 ; P. ()., Vermont.
S. A. Henderson is nu'uhcred among the early settlers of this town-
ship. His father, William Henderson, was among the first pioneers
wlio founded homes in Illinois; he was born in Westmoreland Co.,
Pa., and followed farming from boyhood, and there united his for-
tunes with those of Miss Nancy Russell, by whom he had 9 children.
What is somewhat remarkable is that all of them are living. S. A.
was but 10 years of age when his parents settled in Fulton Co. on
farm property, where he spent his youth, receiving a liberal edu-
cation ; 18(30 he married Aliss Hannah, daughter of John and
Julia Ingle, by whom he had 1) children : 8 are living, — P^dith, Alice,
L3la, IM.irion, E Igar, Willie, Elsie and Anna. Charles is deceased.
Louis 7/l'.s'.s, farmer, sec. 28 ; P. ()., Astoria. Lewis Hess was
born in Germany in 1832. He was but 8 years of age when his
parents landed in America. They settled in ^laryland, where Lewis
attained his majority and married ^liss Mary Lindon, by whom he
has U children. Having accumulated property in Maryland Mr. H.
dispDsetl of it in 18(j7 and came west, locating in Astoria township,
where he first purchased 40 acres of land, and now owns 120 acres.
Suinncl Ht'stuH, deceased, was a native of Bucks Co., Pa., where
he was born in 1820. Crowing to manhood in that State he mar-
ried, in 181'J, Hannah Heaton, of England. Li an early day Mr.
H. with his family moved to Ohio, where lu; remained 8 years, and
then came to Astoria township, where he resided up to the time of his
death, which occurred in Nov., 18(j7. To the care of his wife he left
8 children, — David, Eiizi, Mary Ann, Sarah J., Ann E., deceased,
Harriet, Lydia, Christiana and R-.u-hel.
T. 31. Hetli'lck, of the firm of Coyner & Hettrick, lumber deal-
ers, Astoria. jNlr. H. was born in Astoria townshiji, in 1841. His
father, Wm. Hettrick, is a resident of this township, where he is en-
giged in farming. Daniel attained his majority while, living on the
farm; he acquired a good education and for a number of years
taught school. In 18()0 he was united in marriage with INIiss Ella
K. Walker, d lughter of Ad im \\'alker, of Ohio. In 1874 he moved
to McD.)nough Co., and during the si)ring of 1879 came to Astoria
and purchased an interest in the lundjer yard of J. B. Coyner, the
well-known lumber dealer.
WiUlaiii IL'ttrick-,{'dvm\iV,SQC. 21 ; P.O., Astoria. Abraham Het-
trick, the fither of our subject, was a native of the Keystone State,
and a farmer by oc(ai[)ation. He lovtd and wetl Miss Susan Wun-
derly. William, who was born in March, 181.3, in Penn., was her
onlv child. At the ay-e of 27 he went to Virginia and remained
until he was 21, serving an apprenticeship in tailoring. He came
I
440 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
to Edgar Co., 111., in 1835, and to Astoria township the following
year, whero he worked as a journeymin. He then op?ned a shop at
Bernadotte, but soon located on a farni,^nd after many years of hard
work ho began to reap the fruits of his energy and diligence. Dec.
12, 18311, he was married to Miss Ellen, daughter of H. G. Jirand.
Thirteen children were born to them, 9 of whom are living, — Daniel,
Susan J., Fj\i'/a\ E., Louisa, William, Tulessa, George, Marv and
Sarah M.
G. V. Hopkins, retired j)hysician, was born in Bourbon Co., Ky.,
Feb. 3, 1798; his father, Lemuel Hopkins, was a native of Penn-
sylvania, and a farmer; Garrett, the subject of this sketch, was so en-
thusiastic in the study of medicine while young that he qualified
himself for practice at a very early age; in 1810 he settled in Preble
Co., O., and became eminent in his practice in a short time; in 1820
he married Miss Susanna Leas, a daughter of Daniel Leas, of Little
York, Pa. ; she died, and in 1831 he married Esther Oliver, of Dark
Co., O. ; in 1841 he came to the point where Astoria is now situated,
and practiced in his profession for many years.
Fridolic Horwidel, farmer, sec. 7 ; P. O., Vermont. Mr. H. was
born in Germany on the 6th f)f March, 1837. Receiving a rudi-
mentary education in his native land, in 1851 he crossed the At-
lantic for the New World, landing at Baltimore. He ])roceeded to
Pennsylvania where he followed his calling, that of blacksmithing,
for a number of years. In 1860 he was united in marriage with
Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Henry Riffle. She has borne him 6
children. In 186(5 he settled in Fult(^n, where he followed farming
the first year, and subsequently worked at his trade in Vermont, and
in 1876 purchased his present farm.
Adam Hott, farmer, sec. 7: P. O., Vermont. This gentleman is a
native of Jefferson Co., O., where he was born July 5, 1820. Grow-
ing to manhood in his native State, he was married to Miss Barbara
Mushrush, by whom he had 9 cliildren, 8 of whom are living. For
many years of his life Mr. H. was a wagon-maker and has ibllowed
agricultural pursuits later in life. At the close of the Rebellion he
came to Illinois and settled in Schuyler Co.; two years later he
came to Fulton, where he has since resided upon his farm. Since
his arrival in the West he has held local offices, and in Ohio was
Supervisor.
WiUiam T. Hudmdl, farmer, see. 24 ; P. O., Astoria ; born June
21, 1801, in Virginia, and removed from there to Tennessee, then
to Kentucky, where he was married to Miss Sarah Ann Miller. In
1848 he settled in Fulton Co., 111., and in 1852 went to California,
where he remained 6 years. Xot meeting with success, he returned
to his old home in this county. When the late war occurred between
the States he enlisted in the 11th 111. Cav. and served 18 months;
since then he and his estimable wifL^ have resided in this county.
Their children are Samuel A., Melvina, Merrill, Sarah, Susannah,
Margaret, William C. and J. Walter.
HISTOKY OF FULTON COUNTY. 441
S. A Hunter, cabiiict-makor and untlcrtakor, is a well-knoMn
business man of" Astoria. He was born in NN'ashington Co., O., in
1851. His father, John M. Hunter, was born in Washington Co.,
Pa., and at the aj>e of ten he aeeonipanied his parents to Ohio, and
at Connellsvilk^ learned the tra(h> of eabinet-niakino-. AVhik' a
resident there he married Miss Xaney Siiriver, and during the
autumn of 1852 came to Astoria, where he is now engaged at eabi-^
net-making. Samuel acquired the trade in Astoria, })roved an apt
scholar, and is to-day recognized as one of the most skillful work-
men in this county. In 1875 he was united in marriage to INIiss
Olive MeLellan, a daughter of Robert jNIcLellan, a Ibrmer well-
known agriculturist of this county. They have one child, Mabel.
James Jennings, flirmer and trader, sec. 33 ; P. O., Astoria ; was
born in Tuscarawas Co., O. His father, Ivcwis Jennings, avIio is
still living, upwards of 80, was born in Frederick Co., Va. In an
early day his parents settled in Ohio, where Lewis married Miss
Martha Moore, by whom he had 4 children, — James, Robert, Wilson
and Nancy. At 35 Mr. J. left Ohio and located in Indiana where
he lived for a number of years. Mrs. J. died in Ohi(i, and the
second wife of Mr. J., Susan Miller, bore him 4 children, — Mary,
Julia A., Anderson and \\'illiam. This lady departed this life in
Indiana. Mr. J. came to Fulton Co. in 1854, where he resides at
present. One vear prior to this James Jennings, his son, settled in
Astoria tp. He was then married, having united his fortunes with
Miss Eliz;ibeth, daughter of Wm. Wheeler, of Va. There were
born of this marriage 5 children, — George E., Nancy, William, Ben-
jamin and Julia A. Mrs. J. died in 185(), and three years later
lie was married to Miss Delilah Doil, of Ohio.
Immer JoJinsnn, deceased. Well and favorably known to the
farmers of this county in pioneer days was Mr. Johnson. He was
born in Harrison Co., O., Feb. 14, 1815, and but little of his early
life is now brought to mind. He was raised upon a farm in his na-
tive State. In 1835 he came to Astoria township, where he worked
at his trade, that of a carpenter. He it was that built many of the
cabins, and afterwards the frame buildings that were erected as the
county became settled. Without doubt he erected the first church
building in the townshij): it was for the Methodists. The second
church was also built by him ; it was for the United Jirethren. He
was united in marriage in 183SJ with Mi.-s Priscilla Buck, of Ohio.
He then built a hewn-log house, one rather more comfortable than
those generally in use. During the sj)ring of 1857 he sold his
property and went to Texas, where he remained until 18(J5:then he
returned and bought 240 acres of land in this township. Mr. J. was
not only a prosperous farmer, but on(> of the most generous of men.
He was an exemplary Christian and gave freely to heli) sn])port all re-
ligious denomination.^. He died 13 years ago and his remains were
consigned to rest on the farui projjcrty. To the care of his wife he
left 2 children, — Lydia, who has since died, and Thomas, who resides
on the old homestead.
442 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
John Kiddy deceased. For many years John Kidd was a w:ll-
known business man of Astoria. He was a native of" York Co., Pa.,
where he was horn in 1814. While a resident of tliat State he en-
tered aetively into business and for a number of years carried on a
ffood trade. In 1841 he was united in marriajje with Miss Julia
Ann R-'vnolds. In an earlv dav he moved to DuPage Co., 111.,
where he eniraijed in farminu". In 18")'2 he disposed of his farm
property and moved to Astoria, where he purchased mill ])roperty
from a man by the name of Bacon. For a number of years he was
busily engaged at Astoria, when he concluded to locate on Sugar
creek, where he met with great misfortune, owing to the explosion
of his mill. June 23, 1868, he was laid at rest in the Astoria ceme-
tery, leaving to the care of his estimalde wife 7 children, — Harriet,
Cyrilln, Lucy A., Lovina, Amanda, Addie and Frank.
George W. Kost, merchant. When Mr. K. came to Astoria it
was not the bustling town it now is, — not half so large and no enter-
prise displayed. He, in conjunction with his brother ^\'illiam Kost,
built the Fulton Flouring Mills. At the expiration of three years
he retired from milling and erected what was then the best business
block in T:own, and became a merchant. Since then he has been ex-
tensively engaged in the dry-goods and grocery business. He
takes a deep interest in Astoria and has the coniidenee of the entire
community. This summer he erected one of the finest residences in
the j)lace. He is a consistent member of the Christian Church, and
for a long period has been one of the active officials of the Astoria
congregation. Tn 1852 he was united in marriage to Miss Susanna
S. Nelson, by whom he has 5 children, — Fi-ank, Laura, Ira, Charley
and Fred.
John 7vW, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 7 ; P. O., Vermont. The
ancestry of this family are traced back to Pennsylvania. The father
of John was a farmer by occupation, and for a number of years
transacted a successful business as a tanner. He was married to
Miss Elizabeth Snyder first, and his second wife was Miss Mary
Tuckey. John Kost was the second child born of the first mar-
riage. He learned the carpenter's trade in Penn., and was married
there in 1843 to Miss Barbara Hersev. In 1851 he located in As-
toria township, where he purchased a quarter-section of land, whi(;h
he set about improving. Year by year he has added to his posses-
sions and now owns large tracts of land in Illinois, Iowa and Mis-
souri. It is generally supposed that ]Mr. Kost is the wealthiest ag-
riculturist in the township ; but his possessions have by no means
dwarfed a naturally generous disposition. Mrs. Kost died in 1858
and was laid at rest in the Vermont cemetery. In 1859 he was
married to Catharine Lark, who bore him 4 children. But few
men have begun life under more discouraging circumstances and
few have succeeded better.
W'i/fiam Kost, miller and stock dealer, is a native of Cumberland
Co., Pa., where he was born in 1830; his father, John Kost, was by
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 443
occupation a flirmcr and blacksmith, who moved to Knox Co., O.,
in 1832 ; his wife was Mrs. Elizabeth (Wolf) Kost. Duriiifz; the
infancy of William Kost his father died, leaving to the care of Mrs.
K. 10 ciiildren. In a new country with so large a family avc well
know she had a hard struggle, but was never discouraged. She
labored faithfidly and in the declining years of life she lived in
affluence. She died near jNIt. Vernon, O., at the age of 77. Early
in life William learned the trade of carpeuter, and in 18o0 conclud-
ed to come west, and accordingly came to this county, where he
erected many buildings. In 1<S5(> he was married to Miss INIartha
M. Bottenberg. Al'ter a residence of 12 years in Vermont and
vicinity he settled at Astoria, where he erected in conjunction with
others the Fulton Flouring ^Tills, which has 3 run of stone on local
trade. Associated with him is Mr. Nicholas llipsley. In 1874 he
erected his present handsome residence.
John M. Lane, liveryman, located in Astoria iNIarch lo, 1874.
Four years ago he purchased ground on the northeast corner of the
square where he erected his present large stables; since which time
he has had control of a large proj)ortiou of the livery business of
Astoria, running from 9 to 12 head of horses and carrying a good
stock of the best-make buggies and carriages. Mr. L. was born in
Missouri and passed his boyhood and youth in Cuba, where he
received a fair education. With little ex('ej)tion he has been a
life-long resident of Fulton Co. In Aug., 1867, he was united in
marriage with Miss Mary Milligan, who passed through the portals
into eternity on the li)th of January, 1879.
JI. K. Lerew, proprietor of one of the leading meat markets of
Astoria. In many ways he has proved himselt'a live business man.
Last winter he erected an ice-house of large capacity, and is fully
prepared to furnish the citizens of Astoria with the choicest cuts of
meat always fresh and nice. He was born in Pennsylvania in 1851.
His father, Sunuel Lerew, was of French origin; he died when our
subject had attained only his seventh year, and in consequence but
little is known of his early life. At 18 Michael left Pa. foi- 111. and
located at Astoria. He first entered into business u])on his own
account in 1873. During that year he married Miss Kate Ileltzel,
a diughter of <Ionas lleltzi'l. They have two chidren.
William Lewis, farmer, sec. 35 ; P. O., Astoria. Mr. L. is a
native of Kentucky and a son of Wilson and Mahala (Turner)
L'3wis. His fithor is a prominent farmer of this county. William
was born in 1844 and was the third child of a family of 7. He was
9 years of age when his family settled here, and this he has since
made his home. 1870 he was wedded to Rebecca Savers. George
and Harvev were born to them. In 1877 Mrs. L. died and her re-
mains were consigned to earth in Astoria cemetery. In 1878 Mr.
L. united his fortunes with those of Mary C. Turner.
Michael Lind, deceased, was a native of Pennsylvania, where he
passed his childhood. Pie followed farming there, and was united
444 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
in marriage with ^liss Mary who has borne him 10 children,
of whom 9 are living, — David, Lizzie, Mary, Abe, Susan, ,
Michael, Carl, Diana and Mendelia. Eleven years after his marriage
Mr. L. settled in Fulton Co. Having some means he purchased
80 acres of land in Astoria township, where he resided up to the
time of his demise, which occurred 8ept. 14, 1872. Mr. L. is de-
scribed as an industrious, honest farmer, and in his death the county
lost a most valuable citizen.
James Lif eh field, farmer, sec. 19; P. O., Vermont; is the son of
Leonard and Mary (Sj)aulding) Litchfield, and was born in the State
of New York, Sept. 15, 1801. His father was a soldier in the war
of 1812, and followed farming and milling during the greater portion
of his life. James is the third of a family of 5 children, and on
attaining his eighteenth year he moved to Coshocton Co., O., and
learned the trade of manufacturing windmills. While a resident of
Ohio, in 1825, he took unto himself a wife in the person of Hannah
Henderson, who bore hiui 4 children. Mrs. L. was laid at rest in
1836, and the following year he married ]Miss Jane Livingston,
daughter of William Livingston, a well-known earlv settler of Co-
shocton Co. There were born to this marriage 8 children, all of
whom are living, — Elizabeth, Sarah J., Harriet, Emily, Olive, Jane,
Manf )rd and Martha. On his arrival here ^Ir. L. lived in a small
round-log cabin, the eaves of which otfercd a tempting roosting place
for the numerous wild turkeys. He soon erected a better cabin,
which answered his family for a long time.
Martin Lifc.'ijield, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 5 ; P. O., Vermont.
Chauncey Litchfield, the father of our subject, was a native of New
York State, where he followed agricultural pursuits. During the
early settlement of Ohio he located in Coshocton Co. and lor a
number of years resided in that State ; in all ]irobability was married
th'.>re. His wife was Miss Martha Knight, who bore him (5 children,
of whom Martin was the youngest. He passed his boyhood and
grew to manhood in this county, receiving a liberal education. Mr.
L. states that during his boyhood very little land through this
section was under cultivation, and for the most part was heavily
timbered. Li 1858 he was married to Miss Elizabeth Pollock,
daughter of David Pollock, l)y whom he lias 8 children, — Frank,
Elmer, Sophia, Lnvina, Oscar, Cora, Stella and Bessie.
Lovcll & Smith, dealers in groceries, queensware, etc. These gen-
tlemen are among the live, enterprising merchants of Astoria. They
associated them^i'lves together only a year ago, yet have built
up a large trade. The firm is successor to Argo cV: Lovell, who pur-
chased the present ])roperty three years ago. In addition to the
al)ove line Messrs. Lovell ct Smith are the only ice dealers in
A>^toria. Last year they stored 90 tons of fine ice. They intend to
ui d<e this line a specialty and supply Astoria and surrounding
country. As a firm they deserve the patronage of the people.
J. L. Lunt, farmer, sec. 22; P. O., Astoria. On the 9th of Nov.,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUXTT. 445
1842, Jason L.liunt urrivcd at Sharpe's Laiulino-, Fulton Co., later
he made his way to Woodland towushij), and purchased a quarter-
section of land, and (5 years later moved into Astoria township. He
is a native of Maine, where he was born Oct. 27, ISlf). His father,
Rufus Hunt, was born in the same State, where he followed farm-
ing; and there married Mrs. Ruth Smith, also a native of Maine and
and whose ancestry were amon^ the pioneers of New Kn<2;land. Of
this marriasje 10 children were born, and what is remarkable, all are
livins: at the present writinji;. At the early aji'e of 1(5 Jason shi])pe(l
on board a merchant-vessel, makinji: two voyaurs to p]uroj)e, and
subsequently became employed in a woolen mill. Attaining his
majority he again shipi)cd before the mast, this time on Lake Erie.
For several vears he led a somewhat roviiii>: life, and finally, in 1<S42,
set foot in old Fulton, where he has accumulated wealth as a farmer.
In 184o he was mirried to Miss Jane Derrell of Kennebunk, Me.
B. W. Liifz, am;riculturist. Althou<;h not among the first settlei*s,
yet Balseer \V. Lutz as a ])rominent farmer is worthy. of space in a
local history. He was born in Kentucky, Aug. 2o, 1811), and is the
eldest son of Daniel and Diana Lutz, who had moved to Kentucky
from the Old Dominion State. They returned again to Virginia, where
B. W. grew to manhood. April 14, 1840, he was nnirricd to Miss
Eliza Ulray, who was a daughter of John Ulray and born in Rock-
ingham, Va., Ai>ril 5, 1817. Fourteen years later he came to As-
toria, and soon purchased a jiortion of his present farm. He now
owns 240 acres of land rarely equaled in this portion of Fulton.
Eight children were born of the marriage, o of whom are living, —
Diana, the wife of Perry Farrow ; John IL, whose name appears
elsewhere in this book ; J. B. C ; W. R., who married Miss Maggie
Swisher ; Eliza J., who resides on the homestead.
John H. Lutz, agriculturist, was born in Va., and is the second
child of B. AV. Lutz, of the Old Dominion ; he was a farmer and
married ^liss Eliza L^lray. In 1.S54 oNlr. L. moved his family to
111. and settled in Astoria township, where he resides at the present
time. John grew up in this county. He first [jurchased 200
acres of land and now owns 'MiO acres. In 18()9 he was married to
Miss Caroline Danncr, daughter of Jacob Danner, who is regarded
as one of model larmcrs ol' 111., and the owner of nearly 1,000 acres
of land. Of this marriai>;c 4 children were born.
Solomon Li/hdrqer, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. f) ; P. O., Astoria.
Mr. L. is a native of Knox Co., ()., where he was born Aug. 5,
1820. His father, D.inicl Lybarger, was a native of Jiedford Co.,
Pa.; he was a farmer by occupation, married Anna Geary, and had
a family of 9 children, of whom Solomon was the eldest son. Daniel
Lybarger moved to Ohio in an early time, and while living there,
1844, Solomon marri(>d Miss Rosanna Frcy, and the following year
he came west and located in Fulton Co., where he has since been
a prominent resident. He first worked as a farm hand and two
years later purchased a farm, which is one of the best improved
446 HISTORY OF FULTON COUXtY.
farms in Astoria townsliip. The marriage of j\Ir. and Mrs. Lvbar^er
has bepii blessoil with 11 chihlrcMi, 9 of wliom arc liviiio;, — Daniel,
Walter R., Amelia, Delos, Marion,. Edmond, Emma, Amanda and
Ehner.
Thomas Mafhe^rson, ]^hoto«>:raplier, was born in Jefferson Co., O,.
January 14, 18;]0. His father, Wm. ]\Iathewson, was a tlioroiigh-
going business man of Ohio, and subsequently followed farming in
III. Thomas came to Astoria, and in 1850, Avhile a resident of
Schuyler Co., he took the California mining fever and accordingly
crossed the plains, landing at Sacramento Aug. 5. AVhile there he
purchased the old Sutter saw-mill j)roperty and succeeded quite well
as a miner, although engaged in the famous lawsuit growing out of
this disputed property. In 1852 Mr. M. returned to 111. and settled
in McDonoutih ('o. In 1853 he was united in niarriaue to Miss
Jennie, daughter of John iNIathewson. Later in life Mr. M. turned
his attention to portrait painting and met with wonderful success.
In 1862, learning his present business, he settled at Astoria where he
has a fine gallery. While he devotes himself to this art Mrs. Mathew-
son is no less enterprising and conducts a first-class establishment.
Samuel JIa.circ/l, farmer and stocU-raiser, sec. 13; P. ()., Astoria.
Mr. M. is native of Fulton Co., and was born on the old homestead
of his parents Nov. 3, 1844. His father, James Maxwell, is well
remembered by the pioneers of this section ; he was born in Bartel
Co., Va., and in an early day moved to Ohio and there followed
farming. There he married Miss Polly Corbett, by whom he raised
a family of 5 children, Samuel the youngest. In 1865 Samuel en-
listed in Co. G, 155th regiment. In 1872 he was united in mar-
riage with Miss Sarah Brickor, daughter of Amos J^ricker. They
have had 3 children, of whom two are living, — Florence A. and
Minnie M.
Edward McClelland, farmer, and stock-raiser, sec. 24; P. O.,
Astoria. Edward McClelland is one of the leadino- fiu-mers of this
township, where he was born July 18, 1849. Robert and Priscilla
INIcCIclland were his parents. In 1870 he was united in marriage
with Miss Rebecca Teter, daughter of Noah and Catharine Teter.
Lutie and Carrie arc their children. Mr. McC. is the owner of a
fine firm |)roperty of 149 acres.
Jo/t)i Mc( 7(//(tiid, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in this county
in March, 1810. His father, Robt. McClelland, of whom we speak
above, was born in Ireland and came tt) America nearly half a
century ago. He at first settled in Ohio, then came to Bond Co.,
III. John grew to manhood in Fulton Co., and remcnd)ers the
time when Astoria was c(»mpi»scd of only a few ])lainly constructed
houses. At such <Mid times as the duties of the farm would permit
he attended the district schools. In 1865 he was united in mar-
riage to Miss A. Hopkins, a daughter of G. D. Hopkins, a well-
known early settler of this county. There were born of this mar-
riage 4 children, — Laura M., Esther H., Albert J. and E. M.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 447
Mrs. McC. died in 1872, and in 1<S74 ho was married to Miss T. M.
Bartholow. They have two chihlren: P^niily and Robt. C
Mrs. PriKcilht McClclknuJ, relict of Robert McCleUand, was
born in Jeiferson Co., C, in 1814. In an early day her parents
moved to 111. Her maiden name was Marshall, and she was mar-
ried June 30, lS:i(), to Rolxn-t MeClelland, a native of Ireland,
who was born in 1801. But little of his early life is known; his
father died when he had attained his twelfth year, and thus while
young he was thrown upon his own resources. He learned the
trade of a weaver, and at 19 crossed the ocean for America. He
went to N. J., but did not long- remain there; he came to Illinois
prii)r to the Black Hawk war, and soon afterward came to Astoria
township and engaged in farming. Mr. McClelland was a farmer
of uncommon energy and set to work making a farm in the timber,
and how well he succeeded in life is well known to the business and
farming communitv. When his life's labors drew to a close there
were others besides near and dear relations who missed the familiar
face.
FinJey McC'irm'ick, farmer, sec. 8; P. O., Vermont. Among the
more substantial farmers and early residents of Fulton Co., Finley
McCormick deserves a place. He was born in Fayette Co., Pa.,
Oct. 13, 1823. His father. Booth McCormick was a farmer in
Pennsylvania and there passed the remainder of his life. In 1855
Mrs. McCormick settled in Astoria tp., and the subject of this sketch
came the following year. He had mari-ied in the Keystone State,
Miss Ann Hogsett in 1818. Having ])urcliased a farm the yetir of
his arrival, Mr. McC. set about making a home and through well
directed efforts has succeeded. There were born of the marriage of
Mr. and Mrs. McCormick 8 children, 7 of whom are living, — Ella,
Lizzie, Alice, Ross, Chas. E., Robert F. and Jane.
Hariri/ Mc Connie!:, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 9 ; P. O., Ver-
mont. Mr. McCormick ranks amona: the |n'omincnt farmers of Ful-
ton Co. He was born in Fayette C )., Pa., 33 milc^ above Pitts-
burg, April 30, 1819. His fither, Booth McCormick, came from
Ireland in an early day and settled in New Jersey, where he mar-
ried Miss Phoebe Wheaton, l)y whom he has had 11 children. Dur-
ing the early settlement of Pennsylvania he located in Fayette Co.
Owing to the limited means of his parents and the poor advantages,
he received only a meager education ; he has, however, by jiersonal
exertion and observation gained much knowledge. In 1845 he
married Miss Elizabeth Hogsett, of Pa. He followed firming in
Pa., and in 1853 came to Astoria tp., where he purchased 160
acres. He set to work in his Western home and soon displayed
more than ordinary skill as a farmer. Step by step he accumulated
land and other property, and now he owns over 800 acres of valu-
able land. Of the marriage above referred to 7 children were
born, — Clark, Irwin, Amzie, Finley, Thomas B., Benton, Ella
and Ida.
448 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Samuel W. j\hCmic, station agent of the C, B. & Q. Railroad.
This gentlemin is one of the most courteous agents of this great
corporation. He was born at liloomington, Monroe Co., Ind,, July
27, 1832. Hi WIS edii:' te 1 at Bloomington, this State. While
residing in Indiana, he selected as his future profession tiiat of tele-
grapliy. He accordingly proceeded to Terre Haute, where, and in
other cities, he became an apt jMipil, and in time a skillful operator.
By the Peoria & Springfield R. R. ('o. he received the oflfer of a
situation in the conip;uiy's office at Pekin. There he gained the
esteem of his superiors in the capacity of agent. He remained
there for over a year, when he became employed by the C, B. & Q.
R. R. at xVstoria. Since here, he has proven himself a capable busi
ness man and keeps ]);\t'e with the times. In 1874 he was marrie-
to Miss Mattie, daughter of John H. Ramsey, of Ind. They had
one child, R. L., born at Crawfordsville, Ind.
John 3It'L'iren, agriculturist, is a native of Scotland, where he
was born in Oct., 1818. His father, Robert McLaren, was a farmer
by oeeuj>ition and who mirried Miss Marv Gory, by whom he had
7 children. He crossed the Atlantic with his family in 1823, land-
ing at Philadelphia. He remained but a short time there when he
settled in Gibson Co., Ind. Six months thereafter he died. For 6
years Mrs. McLaren, who was a lady of uncommon energy, labored
hard to support her family. In 1827 she came to this Co. and set-
tled near Astoria, in what is now Woodland tp. The country was
rough, their nearest neighbor lived miles away and the only means
of <rriudin(>: grist was in a rude horse-mill situated near Rushville.
In 184;> John was married to INIiss Nancy H. Clapper of Kentucky,
by whom he iiad I'l children, 8 of whom are living, — Martin A.,
"NVilliam B., Robert H., John T., Luciuda J., Oliver J., Chas. E.
and Nancy M.
R. F. McLaren, Justice of the Peace, was born in Woodland
township, this county, in 183o. His father, Peter McLaren, who
resides in Woodland tp., has lived in Fulton county upwards of
half a century. He holds a leading position as a farmer and is
well known throughout this section. Robert, whose name heads
this sketch, passed his boyhood in M'oodland, and in his eighteenth
year was apjtrenticed to learn the wagon and earriage-nudcing trade,
and for a number of years worked as a journeyman in Astoria. He
has served as Town C'lerk, School Director and a member of the
Town I?i)ard, and in 18()9 was elected J. P. In 1857 he was niar-
rietl to Miss Amanda Lane, daughter of Isaac I^ane, of Ky. They
have 2 children.
Robert McLaren, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 25; P. O., Astoria.
In relating the life experience of Robt. McLaren we go back to a
])rrio<l of time in ])ion(>er historv when seareelv a fence l)roke the
monotony of a boundless prairie. He was born in Scotland, in Nov.,
1816, and when 6 years of age his parents landed in America. He
spent a portion of his youth in Indiana. His mother, who had
^j^^/T^^^ty
ASTORIA
OF THE
UN-IVrKSlTY OF ILLINOIS.
ITIPTOTJV nV ITI/roX COINTT. 4ol
lost the partner <»f luT life, located in Fulton ( "o. in I.SiiT. Two
vears previously, however, Kolx-i't aeeonipanicd Daniel MeNoil, a
well-kiiown early pioneer ot" the West, and who settled near what is
now Ast(»ria. He lived with this family for many years and dc-
seribes this and adjoining- townships as hcint^ heavily tind)ered, no
j)rairie for many miles around. In 18o9 he was united in marriage
with Miss Martha lvlepj)er. In 18.38, in company with John Mefja-
ron he purchased jiropcrtv to the amount of KiO acres. In j)i(»neer
days he suffered many ineonveiueneies, but his health was good,
the land was productive, markets were many miles away of course,
and compensation for raising produce was small : still he lived haj)-
l)ily. They have had 9 children born to them, 8 of whom are living,
— William H., Mary K., dane, Peter J.. Parker, Thomas F., Mar-
tha, and Hester A ; Xaney being dead.
T. M. J/(VV'(/, eontracter and builder, came to Astoria ibur years
ago, and has succeeded in l)uilding up a large trade, frecpiently
w(»rking from (5 to '20 men, most of them being skilled workmen.
He has crt'cted many tine structures Ixtth in town and throughout
the surrounding country. He comph'ted the magniticent buildings
on Broadway occupied by Dilworth Carter's dry-goods house,
Mooney's (h-ug-store, the l)ank building, also Bonuel I^ros., and
many other of the tine buildings that grace the town. During the
4 years he has resided here he has received and continues to receive
large orders from residents of both town and country to which he
gives his special personal attention.
('. X. Mernll, of the Hrm of W. W. Merrill <V: Hro., book dealers,
became established in business in Astoria in connection with \\'. I).
Merrill, deceased, in 1S75, and opened their business first in the
|)ostof1iee building. They erected their present building in ]87().
^^^ B. MerriU, the senior nicnd)cr of the firm, died .V])ril •>, 1879.
Since that date NTr. ('. S. Mei-rlll has been at the head of the estab-
lishment, which will compare favorably with any of this line in
Fulton CV).
//<'^/r// J/r/T/V/, fanner and stock-raiser, sec. '24; P. ()., .\storia.
Mr. ^[errill is one of the leading agriculturists <if this countv and
bears the re})utation of a wise, energetic busini^ss man, and an enter-
l)rising, generous citi/.en. He was born in Main(> Api-il 12, 182().
His father, Israel Merrill, was also a native of that State, where he
was united in marriage with Miss l.iydia, daughter of Abel Merrill.
The history of those who bear the name of Merrill in this section of"
the country is (piite interesting. Sir Peter ^Ii-rrill canu' from Kng-
land and settled in Mass., and it is supposed that those who bear
the name are descen<hmts of the colony that. settled there. Owing
to our limited space we are comjx'lled to note only events of tho.s(>
of this day and generation. Israel Merrill left his (dd home in
Maine (hiring the autumn of 18.38, and after a long journey, mostly
by water, landed in Astoria tp., and purchased 160 acres of land.
Mr. M. worked early and late, and in time became comfortably sit-
28
4-5'2 msrroKY or nnLTox nor^fTT.
uate*!. H*- di«e«l Nov. 12, 1^76. Mrs, M. dierl Sept. 10, 1857.
Hifmiy jj««*rl hi* «^rlv year* amid the a«^j*ciation.% of pionetr life.
X«v- 14, Mi41f be wa* uniterl in marriage to Mi.%j» Sarah MeXeill,
dan^ter <r/f David MeXeill, one of the juioneer* of thi* erjiunty, and a
soldier <fj»f the war of 1 Hi 2. We find orrrsa^ion to mention thi.* gentle-
roan ftiequentlr in thi* vork. Henrj- !klerrill ha* *n<?f*e<led well in
hi« eho«*ti ornrru|iati<»n. In 1 i^*4^ he had a farr . f JrfO aere» ;
be now ha* 'I^f aere* in thi* rjonnty, 16o in "^ ' w,. and land
in Kanjsaj^. 3Ir. and Mr*. M. have Vj>een bh- 12 children, 0
of whom are living, — Luther iL, Ellery C, Lydia, Henrj' L., Belle,
Hattie, Ja<r3fjtb, Nellie and Benjamin R. Ellerj' and Lather, who re-
side on the bom^#t<fiad^ arif; both marrierL The former married Man.-
E, Bell, Jnne 1, 1^75. Loth*^ married Mar\- Meredith, December
ISI, 1*$7^.
Jf^/h W. MerriUf farmer; P. O., Astoria; i«f a nati^'e of Maine,
where be wa* J>om April 6, 1#*23, AVe have spoken of hi» parent*
elsewhere. He (f.-ame with hk parrmt* to 111. when be wa* a lad 16
year* old. In li^iji he was nniter] in marriage with Miss Melvina
Hudnall, irlangbter t4 Wm. T, Hndnall. In 1>J.52, incrnropany with
Wm. T. Hndnall, Cjbarles 3ferrill, Thornton Spcmee and Alex.
Borross, he start<f?d for the gold^m sborfts of the PaHfie. -At the <^ '
of 4 months tbej- land<f?ifl at a small mining town raillerl '76. A:^ /
an aljwence of two y«rars Mr. M. r*rtnm*,'<l and settlwl npr>n bis iarxn.
Tliey liave bad four children, — Charbss L., G<^i., Mar\' and William
S. Tbntjrfr (d their ebildrffn arifr d<^d.
Jjidhfr McrriU, {skr%uf'.r ^ i^f . 24; P. O., .Vstoria. Tlif- "uojcf^ of
this sk^-teh was l>om in Astoria township, F'ulton Co., in lh4U, His
fetb(f;T, H«;nry Merrill, is one of the well-known pion^-rs of the
county. Luther was unit«;f] in marriage with Miss Mart' J. M*rc-
ditb, ^laiigliter of Jr>s<rpb Mer^r^lith.
Hi^fthen MfirrUl, farttu^r and st<f»<'k-rais*'r, s<re. I&; P. ^J., Astoria,
Time has wrought many wonderful changes^ in the great We»t, and
among tb^j***? who have }»*i*'n instrumental in its devebipment and
jjm/i»jK?nfr*l with its growth is Mr. Merrill. He was \ntm in York
0»., Me., in HUH. Attaining the age of iH be stepjxrrd l^rfore the
mast and s|»*.'nt manv V(r?ars on the stormv waters of the -Vtlantic
and won distinction in his nautir'al proff2-sion. He r(m^ from one
fifjisition to amitber until he mas first mate. In 1831 he was marnVrrl
to Hannah F. Humbam. who die<l in ]H'i2. The follow! r. - h*-
detcrrain*.'^! to "frast anchor" in the then far W(f-st and a^< .. ....gly
r^me to what is now Wr^xlland tp. For many years he workwl
harrJ at bis new vtH^aiton to get a start in lili?. l>;wistown, Mar;omb
and Rn^bville wer*r the princiiial trading j)»<»ints. In 18'Jobc mar-
riwl -Miss KlJzaUrtb Mar*»ball. Six of their eight children arc liv-
ing,— Hannah. Williarii, Henrv' H., .\ngeline, ElizaU-th -A. and
Lydia. Mr. M. is now one of the m'ist prominent farmers of the
township and displays a cr^mmenrlable generosity in all things
worthy.
IIISTOrvY OF Fri.TON COUNTY. 453
John ][oon\ of tho wi'U-knowii tirm ot' Momv Bros. iV: Co.. pro-
|)rit'tors ot" tho Astoria Sj)okc and lliil) Factory, is a native ot'Ken-
tnoky, wluM-c he was Ixtrn Oct. 'M\ 1S;>1. His tathcr, floah Moore,
was l>()rn in the same state and eanie to 111. when .lolni was only
two vears old. He locatcMl in Schuyler ( 'o., where hoth his father
and mother passed the remainder ot" their days. On attaininu' his
majority, John heeame employed in a saw-mill, and then> oainod
mu<h oi' the experieiie(> that enahk's him sneeesst'nlly to eonduothis
presi'iit laru'c Imsiness. In 18o2 he was nnited in marriativ with
Miss Maria ("hipman. For lo years Mr. M. was enj>aii-ed in the
luiid)i'r trade in Schuvler Co., an<l tor 5 years ran a saw-mill in
MeDonough ; also had an int(>rest in a tlonrint;- mill. He came to
Astoria 7 years ajjo, and formed a j)artnershi]) with John Lovell and
l)nilt the present factory. At the end of .'> y(>ars Mr. L. retired
from the lirm, and since then he has admitted as partners L. H.
Moore and Jesse Sievei". Their mill i)uildin<;- is 'J4x7() with a
shed U)x")() feet. This is tlu' only mill of the kind in the Co. Last
vcar tiiey hnilt an addition to the saw-mill, a spoke liictory .'UJxTO,
with a shed "JOxTO feet.
/.. //. Moore, of the lirm of Moore i>i"os. t"^' Co., proprietors of the
Astoria saw-mill and spoke-factorv. is a native of Knox Co., Ky.,
v.here he was Itoni in IS:*(I. His lather, J. L. Moore, was born in
tin' same State, and had a liberal cdncatiiin, and tor the liivater por-
tion of his life taiiiiht schotti, hnt also farmed to some extiMit. His
wife was Leminah Kitchen, also a native Kentnekian. \\ hen our
sid)ject attained hi> fourth vear his parents moved to Indiana and
remained '2 years, when they came to Schuyler Co., III., near l\ush-
ville, where vouuij,' Mooi-e passed his early years, and in addition to
larmiuii' ac(piired a knowlednc of eoopcrin<i". \\ Idle there he was
united in marriage with M iss (). J . Sellers, daiitihtci- ot" Thomas
Scdiers. Sonu- years ai^o he came to I'^ulton Co. and purchased an
interest in the >a\\-mill built by John Mo(U"e. This mill is (piite a
feature oi" .Vstoria, and a lar^i'c an<l <irowin}i business is transnctcil.
Isaac .l///<'/-.v, fiirincr, sec. .'>(!; !*.()., Astoria. Amon^- the sub-
stantial fanners of .\storia township the name ot' Isaac Myers ntust
not be ((verlookeil. A native of" Pennsylvania, he was Ixtrn in 1(S41 ;
at th(» at;-e of" IS he was apprenticed to learn the trades of stone-
mason and biack-layer. and I'or s(une tinu' tauu'ht sch«tol. Duriiij:;
the war he enlisted in Inrlc .Sam's service in the State Militia for
some months. Mr. M. <'amc to Whiteside C^o., HI., wIkm'c he re-
mained t"(»i" a time and then moved to this county. I Ic was united in
marriaji'c with Miss I Ic-ter, daughter ot" John Jiur<j;ard. ThrccMd"
the (! children boin to themai-(> livin«r, — Mary C, Callie and Joseph.
//. ./. Xc/son, postmaster, was bon: near C^nincy in .Adams Co.,
111., May 'Jl, 1S;?(). His fithcr, James Nelson, was a farmer and
die«I at Ivushville. His wile, Leah Ann Kirkpatrick, was a native
of Tennessee. They had (> children, of whom onr sid)jeot\vas the
eldest. He was reareil in Schuyler Co., and first turned his attention,
454 lIISTiJRY OF Ft'I/rON ( OFNTl'.
after leavinj^tlie farm homestead, to bntoiii-makiiig and sid).se(|uentlv
to coo|>ering. In 18o'i he beeame emj)h)yed as a clerk in Adams
Co. and also in Schuyler. In ISoJl he first settled in Fnltftn and
became a ])crmanent resident of Astoria in I87(t, when he entered
the employ of W. H. Scripps. In 1<S72 he received the api)oint-
ment of Postmaster, dune '2'2, 1804, he was married to Miss Jane
A. Fackler, daughter of Franklin and Caroline Faeklcr.
\Vi//liiiii y<'/sitn, retired farmer, svco; 1*. ()., A'ermont. Mr. X.,
although not among the early })ioneers of this Co., is one of the oldest
citizens in the Co. He was born in Chester Co., Pa., in 1800. His
father, \\m. Nelson, was a natixc of Ireland, came to this eonntrv
and settled in Pa., where he married Pvliza1)eth Co(»])er and reared
a family of 4 children, Wm. the only surviving member. He was
left alone at an early age to struggle on in the world, owing to the
death of his parents. He learned the trade of a carpenter; married
Miss Anna Hackatt in 18.*>.">: came to Ohio, Mhere he resided for lo
vears. .Vt this time lilowiuir accounts of III. beo-an to siiread over
the South and East, and among the many wlu) came was the Nelson
family, who landed in Astoria township. His farm was well tim-
bered and it took many years to clear it. He is now SO years of
age, and resides with his son Jesse. Mrs. N. died in 18(j2. Jesse
(). Nelson was born in 18.32; in 1<S.")4 he was married to Miss Mary
Farr, daughter of Cooper Farr. They had '■] children, — Edith,
\'ina and Emma.
Orlaft <<• Rohcrtxon, proprietors of the Buckeye Saw-mill, became
established in their ]>resent (|uarter> during November of last year
(1878). Their mill was formerly located near Summum. AVhile
transacting a most successful Inisiness, furnishing the C, B. tt Q. R.
R. alone 5,000 feet of bunber per day, on Oct. 24, 1878, the mill
was destroyed by fire, caused by an ex])l<»sion, killing one man out-
right and wounding several. Messrs. Oviatt c^' Robertson have
cniistrueted extensive works here, and during last winter shi])ped
80,0(X) feet of walnut tind)er. The mill has a capacity of 5,000 feet
daily, and the tirni has j)roven their enterprise and ability as is
evinced by the success attending them.
Jdrol) l\ili,ici\ retired tiirmer, si'ttled in \\ (Midland tp. a (juarter
of a century ago. He is a native of Maryland, where he ^vas born
Jan. 1<), ISOII. His liither was also a native of Md., and in that
State married Miss Susan Miller, with whom he reare<l a family of
nine children, (u'orge Pahner, Jacob's father, moveil to ()hio.
when the subject of this sketch was in his infancy. He grew up
in Jet1er-><ui Co., and received a " nmnd-log-cabin education." He
lived in N'irginia for 5 years and there married Elizabeth Eong-
streth, in Sept., \X'M\. He came to III. in 185.'], and ]>urchased 1 (50
acres of heavily timberi'd land, which he set about clearing with his
usual energy, and this is now a well im])roved farm. In 1870, he
moved into Astoria and j)urchased town property. The marriage
of Mr. and >[rs. P. has been blessed with 10 children, 8 of whom
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 455
arc living, — John, Alonzo, Joel, George, Loyd, Melissa, Mary,
Ann, Alice, Susan and Sarah.
Benjamin Parri/. Ivong years ago, when scarcely a steam-boat
plowed the Fatiior of Waters, and before the oceans Avere connected
with iron bands, Benjaniin PaiTv nuide his way to Illinois and se-
lected a home in Fulton Co. in L8;5o. He was born in Harrison
Co., O., Dec. 6, 1814. Elsewhere we have spoken of his parents.
Few have witnessed more of the stirring scenes of pioneer life than
Benj. Parry and his estimable wife, to whom he was united on the
24th of Sept., 1840. She was a daughter of Edward and Ann
Leaf, natives of England, as likewise Mrs. Sarah Parry. The
family crossed the ocean to America as early as 1838. .Vfter a long
and eventful battle in his Western home, Mr. P. has at last con-
(juered, and now resides in comfortabh' circumstances on his farm
in this township. For manv vears he lias led a consistent Christian
life.
E. J. Parry, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 27 ; P. O., Astoria.
Enoch Parry may be said to be one of the early settlers of this
county. He was born in Tuscarawas Co., ()., Dec. 11), 1832, and
is the son of Caleb Parry, a native of Virginia, and who settled in
Sangamon Co., 111., in 1835, and in 1840 came to this townshij),
where hi' j)assed the remainder of his days. Ho accumulated con-
siderable property, and was comfortably enjoying his life when
called away. His wife was Miss Reuecca Engle, who was born in
Virginia, and is still living, upwards of 86 years of age. Enoch
grew up here and received a liberal education, which fitted him for
the duties of a teacher. Sul)se(|iiently he taught school for a num-
her of years. He was married to .Julia Jennings, daughter of Jjcwis
Jennings, by whom he has (Uie chiUl, Caleb. Mi-. P. started in life
with no eaj)ital, but willing hands and an energetic dis|)osition,
which has (tarried him successfully tiirongh life.
Lcircllian I\(rri/, farmer, sec. 1; 1*. ()., Astoria. Caleh Parry, the
father of onr subject, was born in \'irginia in 17SKS, and in that
State was married to Miss Rebecca Engle. While this newly mar-
ried couple were residing in Tuscarawas Co., ()., Lewellian was boi-n
to them. He grew U]) and learned the carpenter's tra<le there. In
183(i he came to Illinois, settling in Menard ( 'o. in search of
employment he went to Springiield : while there he was united in mar-
riage with Miss Maria, daught'er of Alexander ( "rawford. Jn 18.'>(>
he came to Astoria tp., where he entered a ti'act of heavv-timbci'cd
land on sec. 1. He was an excellent meehanie and set about to
provide a home for his family. In the er(>ction of a hcwn-log cabin
lie displayed much skill, and took great ])ride in his new western
home. He found the townshi]) but little improved and neighbors
by no means ])l(Mity ; th(^ fare wus fiMigal ; horse-mills then in v<igue,
and longtri])s were niadi' by I'arry to them, where he patiently waitetl
his tvirn. His marriage with Miss Crawford has been blessed with
(J children, 4 of whom are living.
A^i6 lIISTOItY OF rT'I.TON COrNTY,
WiUiam Parry, farmer. For 60 years the tide of eniit;ration has
flowed from the East and South to the AVest, and amonij; tliose who
have found homes in this eounty and suceeeded well in life is our
subject. lie was horn in Tuscarawas Co., Ohio, June 1(5, 1822.
His father, Caleb Parry was a native of Virginia, and removed in an
early day to Harrison Co., C, where he was married to Miss Re-
becca Engle, who bore him 12 children, 8 of whom still live and
reside in different parts of Illinois. At the age of 1(1 William
came with his parents to Fidton Co. Aug. 10, 1842, he was mar-
ried to Miss Miranda M'alker. They have 6 children. Some
36 years ago AVm. Parry began farming for himself, and how he
has succeeded is well known. He is now the [)ossessor of 656 acres
of land and ranks among the leading agriculturists of the county.
David PoKock, farmer, sec. 18; P. ()., A'ermont. It was during
the mouth of October, 1838, that Mr. Pollock became a resident of
Fulton Co. He was born in Pennsylvania July 4, 1807. His
father, David Pollock, was a native of Ireland, and at the close of
the Revolution came to America and settled in Pennsylvania, where
he learned the cooper's trade, and fctllowed farming subsequently.
He contracted marriage with Elizabeth Morrow, also a native of
Ireland. Of this union 6 children were l)oru, David being the
third, who grew up in Ohio, aiul in 183.") was wedded to Mary AIc-
Millan. When Mr. P. came here he })urchased 160 acres of land
and began to build for himself and family a home, having only 83
or $4 in money. He for a time worked at coopering; getting a lit-
tle ahead, he turned his attention to his farm and was soon on the
high road to ])rosperity, and now owns 280 acres of land under a
fine state of cultivation. Eight children were born to Mr. and Mrs.
Pollock, 3 of whom perished in the late war. INIrs. P. died in 1860
and the next year Mr. P. married Miss Elizabeth Peterson.
Thomas and Alexander arc the children of this marriage.
T/iomas W. Price, harness-maker aiul dealer in saddlery, is a
native of New Salem, Pa., where he was born in 1846. There he
partially learned his trade, aiul completed it in Astoria, M'here he
moved in LSfi."). Fntil 18()(j ho was employed as a journeyman by
Green iSz Gilliland, whose interest he ])urchased that year, and now
through his well-known skill as a workman aiul fair dealing con-
ducts the harness trade of Astoria. Mr. P. has held various town
offices of trust and responsibility, and Is the j)resent Township Treas-
urer of school funds and also a meud)er <»f the Town Board. In
1876 he was elected Clerk of tlie town. lie is also Noble Grand
in the Society of Odd Fellows. In 1866 he was married to Miss
Olive Hudnall, daughter of S. A. and S. E. Hudnall, by whom he
has 6 children.
Kpliraiin Ixciincr, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 4; P. O., Vermont.
Tb.e above named gentlenuin is a native of Ohio and was born April
26, 1833; his father, Daniel Renner, also a native of the Buckeye
State, was a shoemaker by vocation. He married Miss Lydia Fry,
I
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 457
by whom he reared a family of 10 children, Ephraim was eight
years of age when his parents arrived in Astoria. Here his father
leased property of Tiionias Sidwoll, a well-known early resident of
Fulton Co. On this proj)orty he jiassed the remainder of his days,
and his wife four years later followed her husband to "that bourne
from whenee no traveler returns." When the war broke out Eph-
riam enlisted in Co. H, 84th re^t,, and participated in many famous
battles, and was 110 days under tire durinji; the Atlanta campaign.
July 12, 1857, he was married to Miss Sarah Powell, by whom he
had two children, — Oscar and Omar. Mrs. R. died Oct. 23, 1803,
and in 1866 he was united in marriage with Miss Margaret Carna-
han, by whom he has 6 children, 5 of whom are living, — Melinda,
Melissa, Columbus, Charles and Arthur.
Henry l^ifflc, farmer, sec. 7 ; P. ( )., Vermont ; is a native of York
Co., Pa., where he was born in 1837. Growing to manhood in the
Keystone State, he learned the plasterer's trade. In 1869 he made
his way to [llinois, locating in Vermont, where he bought town
property and for a time worked at his trade. In 1877 he purchased
the farm ])ro]>erty of Lewis Haney, consisting of oO acres of well
improved land. February 12, 1860, is a memorable day to Mr. R.,
for uj)on that day he was joined in marriage to ISIiss Matilda, daugh-
ter of -lacui) Frownfcltcr, a native of ^Nfaryland, in which State they
lived for 7 years after marriay;e.
William Rose, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 3 ; P. O., Vermont.
Mr. R. ranks among the opulent farmers of this township and of
Fulton Co. He is the son of William Rose and was born in Ross
Co., O,, March 1(5, 1816. William, sen., was born in the Old
Dominion and married Miss Susan Dollard there. She became the
mother of 7 children, the subject of this sketch being the third. In
Ohio he passed his boyhood and grcAV uj) receiving only a limited
education. Here he contracted marriage with Miss Ann F. Lynn,
daughter of Solomon and Flizabcth Lynn, who bore him 10 chil-
dren, 8 of whom are living, — John, James, Wra. R., Uriah T.,
Elizabeth, Susan, Ann E. and Edith. In 1836 Mr. R. set out for
Illinois, and after the usual trij) in a covered wagon drawn by oxen
he arrived in Fulton Co. For one year he Tived in Pleasant tp.,
and then bought land in this township. For many years he roughed
it, but eventually succeeded, and is to-day the owner of nearly 800
acres of fine farminir land.
John Saurbaa(//i, of the late firm of Saurbaugh c\: Zieglcr, Astoria,
is a native of York Co., Pa., where he was born June 10, 1827.
His father, John Saurbaugh, was lioni in Washington Co., Pa.; he
followed farming and married Miss Nancy Royance, who bore him
7 children, of whom John was (he fifth. He grew uj) in his native
State, received a liberal education and early turned his attention to
agriculture and milling. While a resident of Pennsylvania he was
married to Mrs. jNIartha A. (Jroff, a daughter of Joseph Gardner.
This marriage has been blessed with 4 children, — Isaac, George,
4o8 iNsToiJY ()!• I ri.ro.N coixi^'.
Xatluui and Knuiui. Scvonteen years ago Mr. S. located in Astoria
t|). (Ml a farm where lie has since resided, except for •'> years when he-
was en«>ao;ed in the hinilxT trade at Astoria.
(}(Oi'</i' V. >S(ii/('rf<y farmer, see. ',>',*>; P.O., Astoi'ia. Tlw ai)ove
named gentleman is the youngest .son of Jonathan Saycrs, who lo-
cated in Fulton Co. manv vears ami. (Treory-e was horn in Ast(»ria
t|). in IH'")!. (irrowing to manhood he received a lil)eral education,
^larch .')1, 1.S74, he was united in marriage with Mi>s Delilah
Wright, daughter of dohn and Susan \\ right, of Ohio, 'i'wo chil-
dren— Irene and \\ ilhelinina — were born of this marriaw. Mr.
S. holds the office of School Director at |)resent.
LoiiiK'I Sat/t'rs, farmer and stoek-raisei-, sec. 1^7 ; 1*. ()., Ast<u'ia ;
was born in Ilarrison Co., ()., in 1812. His fathei', Jonathan Sav-
ers, was born in Xew fJersey, and moved to jNIaryland, where lie
married Susannah Sing, by whom he had (5 children, Lemuel being
the third child. About the year 1780 .lonathan Sayers settled in
Penn., and very early located in Ohio; he to(»k an active part in
the war of 1.S12, and died in Ohio at the age of 02. In 18.")2, on
attaining his majority, Lemuel .set out for Illinois, after a long voy-
age reaching Havana, from whence, with John Easely, James Strode
and Henry David, who brought teams to trans])ort the goods of the
emigrants, he went to Pleasant tp. John Kasely owiu'd a cabin in
what is now I[)ava. He settled in Astoria tj). and built a round-log
cabin. Li Jan., 1<S4."), he was married to Sarah Jane Henderson.
Of this union lo children were born, 7 of whom are living, —
Thomas, Wesley, David, Martha, Harriet, (Jranville and Sherman.
Mrs. Sayers passed away Jan. 2<S, 187(5, and Oct. 4, 1877, ^Ir. S.
was married to Mrs. b\irniss, daughter of A\'m. Sullivan.
Ifniri/ Sc/iixfcr, was boiMi in York ( 'o.. Pa., in LS3o. Passing his
bovhood and vouth in his native State, at the ajje of 18 he deter-
mined upon locating in the \\'est, and selected Astoria tp., where,
in 18o8, he was united in marriage with Mis-< Magdalena Wise, als(»
a native of the Ivey.<tone State. Sarah, Samuel, Amanda, Charles,
Jjydia, Mai-y and Ldward ari' the children born to them. On his
arrival in the West Mr. S. turned his attention to ditlercnt pursuits
in Astoria. Twelve* years ago he rented a shoj) and started in tlu'
cooper business; after a moderate business lie sold out and purchas-
ed the tannery formerly owned by fJolin (Jilliland. In this new
departure he was successful and accumulated some means, and ])ur-
chased SO acres of land in this t|)., and now is engaged in farming,
owning KiO acres of w(41-im])rove(l land near Astoi'ia, his ])ost-ollice.
Wlllidiii J I. Scri//i/s, banker and leading merchant, is not only a
well-known business man of Fulton Co., but of the entire State.
He is a (|uiet, unassuming gentleman, whose fortune has bv n<\
means dauijicncd a gentle, wai'ui-hcartcd nature. .June (>, 187(), he
organized a ])rivate l)anking house. He was then, as now, transact-
ing a large busines.s as merchant, and fiir a number of years had
carried ou his bankiui,'' business in his stoi-c. In 1877 he erected a
HISTORY OF FTTT^TON COUNTY. 45H
substantial hankin*; l)uiklin,ii" and fitted it up in beeomino' style. In
a work of this nature we deem it due to the people of Fulton Co.
that more than a passin<>- notiee be given to one of their fellou
citizens, who has been so successful in his busines career, and yet
l)y his honesty, o-cntleness and intciirity his name has become a
household word, and is used as a synonym for those noble traits by
thousands. In lS4n he came from Rush ville to xVstoria, then a
very small village, and embarked in business as a merchant, dealing-
in a general line of goods. Ilei-c he transacted a remarkable busi-
ness; his conduct, characterized by most scrupulous u])rightness,
gained for him the coniidenc(; of the community, which he lias ever
retained. Shortly afterwards he turned his attention to the gi-ain
trade, buying large (piantities. About this time he also engaged
extensively in ])ork-j)acking, iu which he met with flattering suc-
cess. In 1(S77 he laid out "Scripps' Addition" to Astoria, M'hich is
composed of over 100 lots,
J/, L. Heverns, city barber, is a nativeof Schnyler Co., 111., where
he was born Jan. 14, 185,3. His father, J. T. Severns, is an old
resident of Astoria and a carpenter and joiner by occupation. I^a-
fayette grew to manhood in this c(»unty and received a good com-
mon-school education. For a nuniber of years he worked at farm-
ing; tlien he learned his present trade, at which he has been (piite
successful, and has the respect of every citizen. April '2'), 187"), he
was united in marriage to Miss Isabel Tli((ni|)son. Nellie is their
(tnly child,
3frs. C'(fJi(iriiic SIkduio)!, a resident of Astoria for KJ years, is a
native of A^irginia, Avhere she was born May 14, 1829. Philip
W'underley, her father, was born in Penn., and in an early day
moved to Vii'i;inia and there married. Farlv in life he learned the
carpenter's trade, which he fdlowed fir many years of his life. He
was married to Miss Elizabeth Ilitz, who bore liim \'l children.
Catherine, the fourth child, grew n|) in Virginia and was mariMcd in
1851 t<; Noah Teter, a I'armci'. Two years later they moved into
Schuyler Co., 111., and in 18()."> came to Astoria and j)nrchased town
property and for several years was a i)artner of Mi-. .1. W. Liitz in
the hardware ])usiness. Shortly aftci- he dissolved partncrshij) he
was taken sick and died. In 1 87.'> Mrs. Teter was united in mar-
riage with f). AV. Shannon, who laid out "Shannon's Addition" to
Astoria. He died in the year above mentioned, lie is a l)iisiness
man and has accumulated con-^iderable |)ro])erty.
Eiie(ii< Sh<i)n}0)i, deceased, was born in ()liio in l.S()7 ; grew u|) and
was married to Miss Melinda .b^hnson, in that State. Hei- father,
Peter Johnscm, was a brother t(t the daring j)ioneer boys, John and
Henry Johnson, who made themselves famous throughout Ohio b\
the killing of their captors, two stalwart Indians. Air. S. settled in
Astoria township in 1850, where he bought a tract of 20(1 acres of
fine land. He died A[)ril If!, 187(), and his remains were consigned
to earth in Astoria cemetery. He left 9 children, — lohn, Nathan,
Thomas, Irving, Asil, Eneas, Eliza, Nancy, and Anna.
4G0 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Nathan Shannon, farmer, sec. 21 ; P. O., Astoria. The gentleman
here named is a native of Tuscarawas Co., O., where he was born in
18'33. At the early age of H) he aceompanic^d his )»arents, Eneas
and Melinda Shannon, to 111. They hn-ated in Astoria tp. on farm
property where ^.'athan grew to manhood. When the war broke
out he enlisted in Co. H, 85th 111. Inf. He was honorably dis-
charged in 18(52, and returned to Fulton Co., where he has since
followed farming. In 1855 he was united in marriage with Miss
Elizabeth Downey, daughter of Jos('])h Downey, by whom he has
children, — Henry, Ewin, Maria, Ada, Irvin, Melinda, Walter,
Hettriek and Eneas.
Benton Sharpe, fiirmer, sec. 22 ; P. O., Astoria ; is a native of
Fulton Co. and one of the oldest residents of this township. His
lather, Jacob Sharpe, founder of Sharpe's Landing and a well-known,
prominent farmer, we speak of below. Nov. 25, 1840, in the town
of Astoria, Benton Sharpe was born. Reared amid ])ioneer associ-
ates, he received a good common-school education. Inl8fi5he mar-
ried Lucy, a daughter of ^\'. B. Carter, a well-known early settler
of this county.
J. Y. Sharpe, deceased, was a well-known merchant and agricnl-
tii-rist of Fulton Co. He was born in Sci))io, Cayuga Co., X. Y.,
in Oct., 1804. But little is known of his early life. He grew up in
Xew York and received a liberal education, chicHy through hard
and persistent labor, and in after years excelled as a grammarian and
mathematieian. While a resident of the East he taught school and
subsequently turned his attenti(^n to agriculture. He came to 111.
in an earlv dav and settled in Fulton Co., and shortly afterwards
engaged in merchandising about three and a half miles southeast of
Astoria. He became ([uite successful, and came to Astoria shortly
after the organization of the town and finished and occupied the
first building begun in the town, and |)robably opened the first stock
of iicnei'ai merchandise in Astoria. Here he married Miss Jemima
Safford. Mrs. Sharpe died many years ago and was laid at rest in
the village cemetery. Mr. S. was united with Miss S. E. Morrison
of Penn. Mr. S. was a shrewd business man and displayed uncom-
mon energy. He it was who established Sharpe's Jjanding on the
Illinois river. Disposing of the Landing, owing to ill health, he
purcliased farm property and at one time owned a 1,000-acre tract
of land. After a long life of unusual prominence and position in
life he i)asscd away in that dreandess sleep that comes sooner or
later to all. To his wife and family he left a large property. The
children born of the second niarriage now living are Flora, Carrie,
Mary and Lillie.
WiH'kiih Shdirrrr, farmer, sec. 11 ; P. ()., Astoria; was born near
Ijcwistown, this county, March 5, 1844. His father, John Shawrer,
settled in this county as'early as 18:'(j. He was a blacksmith by
trade, but the latter years of his life were devoted to farming. He
was married to Miss Marv Mclntire, in Ohio, who bore him 8 chil-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUXTY. 461
dren, — five of whom are living-. William received a good common-
school education and early turned his attention to farming. April
13, 1870, he was united in marriage with Miss Libbie Waggoner, a
daughter of ex-Sheritf I). J. A\'aggoner. Thev have had 4 children
born to them, two of whom, Mary and Nellie, are living.
Jt'.s'.s7f tSiercr, late of the iirm of iMoore J^ros. A: Co., came to Astoria
in 1871, and is a native of the Old Dominion, where he was born
in 1842. His father, Solomon Siever, was a farmer, and married, in
Va., Miss Elizabeth ('a])linger, who bore him 11 children, the sub-
ject of this sketch being the sixth. He accompanied his parents to
Fulton countv when 14 vears old. Thev settled near I^ewistown.
When he first came to Astoria he became employed in the grist-mill
of Kost & Hipslev. At the end of four years he purchased an
interest in the dry-goods house of G. W. Kost. In two years he
retired from this business and embarked in the hard-wood lumber
business. In 1865 he was married to Miss Margaret Hipsley, a
daughter of Nicholas Hipsley, an extensive stock dealer of the
county. In 1878 Mr. S. built a fine residence.
John Skinner, coal operator, is a native of Scotland, where he was
born in 1844, and passed his childhood and youth and grew to
manhood. Attaining his majority he crossed the ocean for the New
World, and first set foot in New York cnty during March 1865. He
went to Pa. and began life as a miner, then went to Cleveland, 111.,
and in 1870 came to Astoria, where his j)ractical mind grasped the
fact that coal of a su])erior quality existed in abundance, and with
uncommon energy, and he, in connection with Mr. W. H. Emer-
son, soon became coal shij)pers. In 1876 he was united in marriage
to Mrs. Sarah E. Rosia, a widow of John B. Rosia.
/Samuc/ 6'/y(////, agriculturist, was born in Pennsylvania in 1802.
In his youth he learned the gunsmith's trade. In his native State
he was married to Miss Elizabeth McCormick, who became the
mother of 8 children, 7 of whom are still living, — Harvev, who re-
sides in Kansas; Alfred lives in Astoria t[). ; A. ,]., who married Miss
Brown, lives in this county; Sanuiel,jr., married Mary Coe and
lives on the fai-m homestead; Phoebe A. married John M. Tingley,
and lives in Missouri ; Mary resides in Arkansas and is the wife of
D. S. Schenck ; Elizabeth, the wife of J. G. Shane, lives in Ne-
braska.
I. B, Snowden, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 5 ; P. O., A^crmont.
was born in Brooke Go., W. Va., in 18.S7, and is the son of p]zra
and Margaret Snowden, and was the third of a family of 11 children.
Ezra was a car})enter and boat-l)uilder by occupation. At the early
age of 19 our subject set out for the West and reached Fulton Co. in
the spring of the year, and engaged as a farm-hand. In 1861 he
took unto himself a wife in the ])erson of Miss Elmira Henderson,
daughter of Wm. Henderson, a ])ioneer of thi^ county. In 1870 Mr.
S. purchased a farm in McDonough Co. Of the marriage with Miss
Henderson the fruits have been 5 children, 3 of whom are living, —
Laura, Leuora and Leroy.
4(>'2 HISTORY OF Fir/rON COUNTY
James C. Sparks, farmer and stoek-raiser, is a iiativr of llaniiltoii
Co., O., where he was born Noy. 3, 1830. His father, Levi Sparks,
'was a farmer l)y occupation and for a number of years deah in u:rain ;
he was married in Oliio to ]Miss Sophia ("omstock. To better their
condition in life they conchuh'd to move iartlici- west and accord-
ingly took passage on the Ohio imncv, going to St. I^onis, from there
to Beardstown, thence to RnsbvilU' and then came to the ohl town of
W^asliington ; moving to Schuyler ( 'o., he estal)lished what was known
in an early day as Sparks' Lauding. This was afterwards purchased
by Jacob Sharj)e. ^[r. S. died in 1844, leaving to the care of his
wife .'} eliildi'cu. James grew to manhood in Sclniyler; on attain-
ing his twenty-first year he moved to l^'ulton, where he has since
l)een permanently identified with the farming interests. ^Nfarch 12,
18o7, he was united in marriage with Miss Ida (_'. Carter, daughter
of the well-known pioneer, flames Carter, deceased. Mr. S. is ex-
tensivelv enofao-ed in stock-raisinu' and his short-horn cattle are un-
sur]iassed.
Janus M. Steele, confectioner, .Vstoria. This gentleman is a native
of Ohio. His father, John M. Steele, was a physician, and was also
born in the Buckeye State; his wife, Miss ]\Iarv K. Parks, was ixirn
in the same State. \\'hen James attained his third year his parents
moved to Til., and settled in Astoria, whei'c James received a good
conunon-scli(tol education. For two years he served as townshij)
Collector. In 1877 he entered into his ])resent l)nsiness, and has
met with good success. In 1S78 he was married to Miss Susan
Palmer, daughter of Jacob Pahner.
Jacob Sirifzer, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. — P. O., .Vstoria ; was
born Nov. 2(), I82(i, in X^irginia. Henry Switzer, his fatiier, was a
native of Pennsylvania, where he lived for a number of years, then
went with his parents to Virginia, and was united in marriage with
Miss Mary Haflher, daughter of Andrew Haffner. Jacob was the
third of a family (»f 7 childi-en, the result of this marriage. He
grew up in his native State and remained there until 1844 when he
came to Fulton Co., and worked as a farm hand. In 18-")0 he was
unitetl in mai'riage with Miss Anna Xebbergall, by whom he iiad 11
chihli-en, 1) of whom are living, — Samuel, Harvey, l'>li/a, I'^anny,
David, \\'alter, Dora, Nellie and (Jeorge.
WHHaiii Siritzir, fai'uici-, sec. .">.") ; P. ()., Astoria. William Switzer
was i)orn on the old farm homestead <>1 his parents, Jacob and
I'^lizabelh .\. Switzer, in No\'., 1S.")1. (irowing to manh(»o(l in this
county he I'cccived a liberal education. In 187.! he was iiiuted in
marriage with Miss Melinda V . Lewis, daughter of" J. W. Lewis, of
A.storia. lOlizabeth .\., Daniel II. and I'errx \\ . are t heii'children.
Jacob Sirope, fiirmei- and blacksmith, was born in Adams Co., i*a.,
July .'>, 1811. He is the s(mi of Jonathan Swope, who was a native
()f Lancaster ( o.. Pa., and a farmer by occuj)ation. He was mar-
ried in that State to Miss Elizabeth Br(»thers, 1)\ whom he had o
children, Jacob the second. .Iac<ib grew u[) in the Keystone State
iiisToKv OF I'n/mx rorxTV. 463
and learned the hlaeksniitli trade, and worked for a nninher of years
at that eallin*!;. Jan. ID, 18.33, he took unto liinisclf a wife in the
j)erson of Miss Klizahetli Muster. Of this niarria*!:*' they have 10
ehiklren liviniy: whose nanu>s are Edward, .laeoh, (Jeo. I)., John II.,
Riley, W alter, Catliarine A., .lane, Klizaheth and Mai'ia. In ISoT
Mr. W. disposed of his property in the East and in the eonrse (tf
time reached Astoria township.
B. (\ To/cr, ])hysieian and suru'con, w;is l)oni in the ( )!(! Donun-
ion State in l<S"i'J, and whik^ (piite yonn<;- ids |»;irents, T. I", and
Mary C. Toler, settled in Kentucky, where yonnu' JJenjainin passed
his boyhood. I)ni';n«: his youth he studied medicine with Dr. W.
T. Toler, an elder l)rother, wiio is now associated with him in his
l)nsincss. In 1.S4S he mo\-e(l to Mason Co., wheix' he a<;ain took
up the study of medicine, and eventually ii'ra(hiatcd frtnn the medical
department of the University of Iowa, situated at Keokuk. iSince
then he has directed all the enerji'ies of his nature to his ])raetiee,
and has been eminently successful. In l.S~)7 he located at Astoria,
where he has since resided and succeeded in buildino- up a reput;i-
tion as a physician unexcelled in the countv. In.l<S.")S he was
united in niarria"!' to Miss Marv E. ^Nlcdiari'U, dauirhter of Peter
McJ^aren, one of the pioneers of l*^dton('o. riiev have S chil-
dren,— iMnm; E., Sarah ( "., (jc.>r<;c, ("has. \\'.. Thomas W'., Luellii,
Nellie and I'^aunic K.
Adam S. Troiic, firmci' and blacksmith, was born in York ( "o.,
Pa., .Vpril Ki, ls;;i. His father, Adam Tnme, was also a native of
Pa., and a farnu'r and coo])er bv occupation : he married Miss ( 'atha-
rine Shult/, by wIkuu he raised a funily ol' I 1 children, of whom
the sid)ject ol' this sketch was the seventh. He passed his vouth
and g-rew.to mature years near the city of Hanover, where he learn-
ed tlu> trade of blacksmith. In 18")") he canu' to Astoria, where he
oj)ened a blacksmith shojt ; in 1 S.")S was united in mai'ria_i>'e with
Miss .lane, dau<:hter oi' .lacob Swope, by whom he had J4 chil-
dren, 10 of whom arc iixinu-,— Levi, Emma, ( 'harlcs, William,
Lizzie, Anna, .lohn, (Jcor^c, .lacob and Mar\".
■losc/i/i Trouc, fai'iner, >vv.'l>>\ W < )., Astoria. The above-named
gentleman was boiai in Maryland in IS] 4. While a child his par-
ents moved to PiuinsyKania, whei-e he iirew u|) and bec;nne em|)lov-
ed as a distiller. llcrc he was mari'icd to l^lizaix'tli Dupes, who
became the mother of 7 children. In bs.vj ^Ir. T. arrived at
Sharj)e's Landinu', on the 1 llinois i-ivcr, and jiurchased 40 acres oi"
land in Astoria tp., and ha> laboi'cd hard to increas(> it to 200
acres, as he has done. >L-s. T. died 4 years after the fanuly had
mo\-ed here, in .Ian., ;1 S(i-J, he c(Mitracted marriage with Mrs,
Nancy Stand)auuli, who died in 1S7."5. Mr. T. was married auain,
this time to Miss Louisa lloUinu'cr.
]V(i(/(/o)tcr <C- Lutz, hardware dealers. These gentlemen became
established in their business five years ago. They are the owners
of the buildino; they occupy, — a large substantial brick, erected by
464 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
them. Thpy carry a heavy stock of goods and transact a large
business. This enterprising firm, in eonneetion with their hard-
ware, carry a full line of tinware, lime, cement, etc. J. C Lutz,
senior partner of the firm, is a native of Va., where he was born
in the year 1828; growing to manliood tliere he received a liberal
education, and (hiring his youth was employed uj)on the old farm
homestead. In LSo") he came West and settled in Astoria. Dur-
ing the spring of 1839 he embarked in the hardware business, and
since that date has been identified with the business interests of
Astoria. In 1858 he was united in marriage with Miss Nancy E.
Morrow. Of this marriage H children were born, 4 of whom are
living, — Chas. M., Mitinie W., Dollie W. and Carrie (deceased),
Daniel and John.
Edii-ard Wampkr, farmer, sec. 36; P. O., Astoria. In 1818,
there was born to Philip and Catherine AVampler, Jice Rover, in
the State of Maryland, the subject of this sketch, Edward Wampler.
He had attained his tenth year when his parents settled in Ohio, and
there he grew up and married. This event occurred in 1837, and
Miss Elizabeth Stover was the bride. Eleven children have been
o'iven to them. For nearlv 20 vears he was a resident of Missouri,
where he became a prominent farmer, owning some l,o(K) acres of
land. AVhile there his wife died, and in l87o he was united in mar-
riage with Mrs. Rebecca Sprinkle. Mrs. W. was born in P^mnsyl-
vania and there married Daniel Sprinkle, who afterwards became a
prominent farmer in this county. Of this marriage 8 children were
born, ■") of whom are living, — Sarah, Henry, Daniel, I^evi and Mary.
The valuable jjroperty left by ^Ir. Sprinkle comprises between 500
and 600 acres of fine land.
Christopher Wdxcl^ farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 21; Pj»0., Asto-
ria. There are few in the county more generally or favorably
known than ]Mr. Wetsel, who was born in Cumberland Co., Pa.,
July 13, 1813. His father, as near as can be ascertained, was also a
native of the Keystone State, and by trade a blacksmith. He was
married to Miss Catherine Wunderly. Three of the J> children she
bore him grew to mature years, and 2 yet survive. The head of the
family died during the infancy of Christo])her. His mother was af-
terwards married to Balseer Lutz and moved to Virginia. Christo-
pher grew up amid pioneer associations, and we su])pose became
early instructed in the rudiments of hard work, his main education.
While living in Augusta Co., Ya., he was married to ^liss Sarah
Cook. In 1836 he came to Astoria township and moved into the
pioneer log cabin, containing no fire-place. He built (me, however,
of sod. The winter was (piite severe and the cabin so open that
snow and wind gained free access, and it fVe(|uently hap}K'ned that
the floor and bedding were deeply covered with snow. Wild game
at this time was abundant, but soon disaj)])eared owing to the rapid
settlement of the connty. Vermont then boasted of one store, and
the future town of Astoria was then given over to the sturdy oak,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 465
under whose ample foliage the pioneer often rested from his labors.
We cannot describe step bv stej) the progress of Mr. W. from jiov-
crty to affluence. He labored diligently and uprightly and owes all
that he has to his own efforts. His children are Eliza J., Priscilla
E., Margaret A., Sarah C, George H., John B., David T. and
Henry L.
William Wheeler, farmer, sec. 29 ; P. O., Astoria. Twenty-three
years ago Mr. Wheeler set out for Illinois and after the usual trip
settled in Astoria tp., where he has since resided. He is a native
of old Virginia, where he was born in 1816. His father, William
Wheeler, was a blacksmith by trade, and on attaining his eighteenth
year, in 1811, he was united in marriage with Elizabeth Fowler, by
whom he had 6 children. William, the third, accompanied his
parents to Ohio in an early day, where he grew to manhood on a
farm. In 1838 he married Miss Francina E. Phillips. He pur-
chased 220 acres of land but little improved and heavily timbered,
and now after much hard labor, has a tine, well improved farm. Of
the marriage with Miss Phillij)s, 12 children were born, 7 of whom
are living, — Arden, Nancy A., \A'illie, Elijah and P^lisha (twins),
John, Franklin and Silas.
Josiidi Woflei/, for the past 21) years a resident of Fulton Co.,
was born in Harrison Co., O., May 4, 1811. Daniel Worley, his
father, was born in York Co., Pa. The date of his settlement in
Ohio is not known, but he probably became a cotemporary with
many of the tirst settlers of the Buckeye State. There he was mar-
ried to Miss Charity Scolds, who bore him 11 children. In 1832
Josiah was married to Miss Mary Ann Miner. Five of the 10 chil-
dren she bore are dead. During the autumn of 1851, with the ob-
ject of making a home for his parents, he came to Astoria township
and purchased projjerty. Shortly after his coming Mrs. Worley died.
During the autumn of 1854 Mr. W, was married to Mrs. Susan Elgin,
relict of Samuel Elgin, and daughter of Jacol) Wirtz. She settled
in Illinois in 1840, first residing inl^ond Co. George and William
were born of this marriage. The former died in childhood and
William lives in Nebraska.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
Below will be found a full and complete list of the Supervisors,
Town Clerks, Assessors and Collectors serving Astoria township
since its organization with the dates of service :
SUPERVISORS.
Robert McClelland 1850 W. L. Gallihar 1858
S. P. Cuinmings 1851-54 John Shannon 1859
JohnBovd 1855 A.J.Rosa 1861-62
S. P. Cummingsu 1856 John V. Richards 186.3-66
Jacob Sharp 1857 S. P. Cummings 1867-79
4(i(;
HISTORY OV FULTON COUNTY
TOWN
1S50
Zachuriah Gilbert j^^"
.1. M. Rankin 1852-5:'.
1). Cook
.1. l)arlin<r ••
Jacob Dt-ny
E. Obamber;
T. B. Linlev
AV. 0. Hopkins ^^
J W. Smith '^■'•-
lSo4
ISoo
ISof.
1S57
1S5S
CI.EUKS.
.lames Smith 18^1-<'-
Davi.l Marsh ^^^''
\l. F. MiLaren
W. Z. Kobbins
R. F. McLaren
McDonald Cox
\Sio
1864-()8
1869-70
1871-7'-'
187:i-74
T.
T.
W
E.
Price
Poler .
ASSESSORS
:\lidiacl Engle ••■
Wni.T. Hudnall-
1S50
1851
185-2
John Morrison ';^^-
Eh Chambers \^^l-:<,
Epiiraim Sears :::::;::: g^
John Oj:lc ^„.-
Henrv Plank...... i^^'
Alhert Litchtiel.l ]^J^
1). G.
(). P.
1). G
Robeson
Frv
187<>-7'.»
1864
1865
Ri'-»" IS;;.
1870
O. p. Fry
H. J. 15enton.
1861-6-.
1863
(OI.l.KCTOKS.
1S.">0
(). P. Frv
Eugene Gore ^^l.^
U. P. Fry ••• ]^\
Albert LitchfieM b^^^i
O. P. Frv
J A. Gillilan.l
()'. P. Fry
1875
187f>
1877-7'.!
■ I.M.l arluck 1S51-5-;
.lohn Boyd l":^] l^l
R, H. Bacon
Nelson Howell
J. C Sparks
Nelson Howell
Jacob Darling
O. P. Fry
Daniel Marsh
J. C. Lutz
Jacob Darling
1867-
lS(>n-
1854-0.)
18.5(i
1857
185S-51I
18(il-(>2
lS(i:;
1S()4
181)5
186(i
John Boyd, ^r
1). G. Robeson
James Krigbaum »i.\
.Toseph Bartholow l'^'-
Franklin Fackler
K. J. Nelson
J. S. Steel
James Steel ••
John Bartholow •••
Martin Mercer
(IS
-70
1874
1875
1876
1877
1.S78
is7<.t
OF THE
UNIVFRSITY Of ILLINOIS.
^(H!^ "^^
^v-\
/
; A^ . .O^. ^^j^€M^" ^
^a»r.
>ta.
c^2^^^uj {yz
■ • r-
n/.
m m
^ ,^', jL/^j
9^^Wi cf^n^^C^J
i
BANNER Tf
BANNER TOWNSHIP.
This township is one of the five townships of this county that
border on the Illinois river, and of these it is the one farthest north.
In an early day there was al)iindance of game in this township, and
indeed it has always been noted as being a good hunting and fishing
ground for sportsmen. Among the wild animals found here were
the deer, wild turkeys, wolves, an occasional bear, wild-cats, lynx,
and all the smaller native animals. In the lakes along the river and
u])on that stream are found abundance of wild ducks, geese and
other game. A large number of hoop-snakes and rattlesnakes for-
merly abounded here; also the black, garter, copj)erhead, blue racers
and other snakes, and salamanders, commonly called lizards. The
swam])s abound in frogs and musquitocs.
The first settler to locate in the township was Joseph Anderson.
He moved to Canton townshij) in 182.3. The first marriage was
William Powell to ]Miss Margaret McOan. They were united by
Richard Tompkins. To this couple the first child was born. The
first mill and distillery were run by Brooks & Cogswell in 1835.
The first tavern was kept by Alex. Wilson and was known as the
Half-way House, being half-way betMcen Canton and the landing
on the Illinois river. The first warehouse was built by Ira Mills,
who came here from tin; East as a missionary " to enlighten the
heathen." He expended the money given him in building his
warehouse on the Illinois river at the mouth of Copperas creek.
Moiifrrci/, which is located in the northern [)art of this township,
was first settled in 1848. The first store building was built by
David Martin. Samuel Null kept the first tavern, and Eli Lyons
the first tannery. Burnett ct Lyons started the first boot and shoe
shop. Dorrance <S: Perkins opened the first <b'v-goods store. This
place, Troy and othe:- })laces did good business in an early day,
before the adv nt of railroads, but since then they have not })ro-
gressed as other [/laces ; indeed they have gone down. There is but
one store at Monterey now. This is kept by Zachariah Weaver.
There is one wagon shop, run by Lewis Ketchum. W. A. Webb
keeps a boot and shoe shop. The school-house was erected in 1859.
A. Swartz is Justice of the Peace.
Centennial Chapel 31. E. Church. — The church building of this
congregation, which is located at Monterey, was erected in 1876.
Among those who gave most liberally toward its erection were John
W. Johnson, J. Addis, Simon Addis^ Jacob Weaver, Wm. Turner.
29
470 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Will. n. Babeook, J. McKiiiley, T, Y(>nn<!: and S. Kotolinm ; in Aict
the liberality of tiie jK'ople was maiiitested in this enterprise. The
widows gave their mites and every one did the most he coidd. Ellis
Hitehens was the first })reacher, and he built the society nj) very
rapidly. It now numliers about 100 mendicrs.
Joxcph S. Addis, farmer, see. 5, Banner tj). ; V. O., Canton. His
father, Aaron I). Addis, was a native of Xew Jersey and died Jan.
23, 1873, in Fulton Co.; his mother, Jane E., also a native of New
Jersey, is still living and resides at the old homestead ; they emi-
grated with a moving wagon to Illinois in 1(S37, first located at Fair-
view, then in Buckheart tp., and finally in Banner tp. Joseph
S. was born in Banner tp. Oct. 11, 1848, educated in the common
schools, and Eeb. '27, 1873, married Emma C. Weller, Avho was born
in New Jersey June 13, 1852. Their chikb-enare Aaron D., Luella
IVIay and Lottie. Mr. Addis has served as Town Collector and
School Trustee: has 100 acres of good land. He is a Democrat,
and he and his wife are both members of the Methodist Protestant
Church.
Simon P. Addis, brother of the foregoing, farmer, sec. 5, Banner
tp. ; P. O., Canton, 111.; born Feb. 18, 1843, in Banner tp. ; edu-
cated in the country schools; enlisted Aug. 5, 18()2, in Co. E, 103d
111. Inf., and mustered out July 6, 1865; married Georgiaua Sheaff
Nov. 1, 1866; thev have had 6 children: Wm. Perrv, born Sept. 8,
1867, and died Nov. 30, following; Adelle, born Nov. 6, 1868;
Geo. W., born Jan. 31, 1872, died Aug. 19, 1874; Sheldon, born
Oct. 9, 1876, died Jan. 11, 1877; Webster, born Sept. 15, 1874;
and Grace, born Sept. 25, 1878. Democrat. Methodist Protest-
ant.
John W. Ashh'ij, farmer, sec. 29. Mr. A. was born in New Jer-
sey in 1836, and is the son of William and Jemima (Cooper)
Ashley. The elder Ashley came to Illinois in 1841 or '42, and
John W. came to Fulton county in 185() from his native State. In
1859 he was married. He is a niend)er of the Methodist Church and
a Republican in politics. He has a fine farm of 200 acres.
Wm. H. Bahcock, farmer, Monterey ; P. O., Canton ; was born
Jan. 18, 1835, in Yates Co., N. Y. ; married Miss Lucy Swartz, of
Buflalo, N. Y. ; their children are FAhi V., Emma J., Willie, Lucy
Anna and Charhvs Abrani.
A/sirorfli Hokcr was in the war of 1812. He served in the Black
Hawk war, and when Black Hawk was taken he was sent to convey
the news to Gen. Scott near Galena. He started out horseback, and
while camping on th(> ]>rairie ov(>r night his horse was scared by a deer
and ran otf. He was then left to trudge along on foot, which he
manfully did, swimming the Fever river, and arrived safely before
the General and delivered the dispatch.
George .S. Bdts, fu'iner, sec. 21, Banner tp. ; P. O., Canton. His
parents, Lewis and Elizabeth (Ray) were natives of Pennsylvania.
He was bopi March 2, 1841, in that State, emigrated to Wisconsin,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 471
and in 1872 to this county; in 1865 married Mrs. Isabel (Prior)
Barlow, born in ^Muskingum Co., O,, in 1841. Children to both:
Frank, born in 1858; Eliza Ellen, born in 1860 and died Jan. 17,
1862 ; Elizabeth Ann, born in 1864 ; John, born in 1866, George
1869, Fred 187o, and Wm. Henrv 1877. Mr. B. has been School
7 7 ti
Director. Democrat.
William L. Beefs, farmer, sec. 19, Banner township, was born in
Highland county, Ohio, Feb. 27, 1851. His parent-^ are Elihu and
Sarah (Daugherty) Beets, the former a native of A'irginia and the
latter of Ohio. William had the advantages of only the common
schools of this county at which to gain an education. He has been
moderately successful in his chosen calling.
James S. Bool: was born in Pennsvlvania 28 vears ago, the son of
George and Jane (Jackson) Book; spent his early life burning lime
for public works; came to Fulton Co. in 1877, and is now a farmer.
Green backer.
L. D. Boi/er is a native son of Fulton Co. His father, Caleb
]5oyer, was a native of Ohio, and his mother, Olive Boyer, iiec
Waklron, was born in New York State. They were among the
early settlers of this county. They located near Lewistown in 1832.
L. D. attended the common schools of the county when a boy and
gathered a fair education. For some time his occupation was run-
ning a saw-mill. He is engaged in farming at present in company
with his two younger brothers. They have a fine farm and own it
jointly.
Difazoii BiirlKDis, farmer, sec. 18; P. O., Canton. His father,
Peter I., was a native of New York State and died in 1863; his
mother, Sabr'^na (Seeley), was born in Connecticut, and died in
1855. Dilazon was born in Kingston, Ulster Co., N. Y., in 1822;
married Miss Jane M. Turck at Saiigerties, N. Y., April 29, 1843,
who was of the same age and nativity, and they have had 6 chil-
dren, as follows: ]S[elissa, born in 1844 and died April 25, 1846;
Eugene, born in 1846 and died Oct. 13, 1866; Charles H., born
Jan. 25, 1850, and died June 7, 1852; John Harvey, born July 16,
1853; Adrian, born Nov. 13,1859; and Wesley, born Oct. 22,
1861. Mr. B. was formerly a carpenter and worked as a contractor.
He now owns 225 acres of land. He and his wife joined the M, E.
Church 37 years ago, but are now mend)ers of the M. P. Church.
Democrat. Emigration, first to Brooklyn, N. Y., thence in 1860 to
this county, where they have ever since resided, except 5 years
back in N, Y. and Penn. Mr. B. says that his forefathers have
been natives of this country as far back as 1646, when two brothers
came from Holland, one of which settled in New York, the other
in Kingston on the Hudson river. One of the brothers was the
first 'Squire of New York and also of Ulster county, N. Y. The
families have increased, and there are some of them living in vari-
ous parts of the East and West. Mr. D. Burhans' grandparents
lived at Kingston when it was burnt up by the British.
472 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Thomas Bi/hrr was born in Fnlton Co. Aj)ril 15, 1853, and is the
son of Ju(l<^o and jNIarv flano (liinengcr) ]Jybc'o. His grandfather
was among the earliest settlers in the State. Thomas reecived his
education in the common schools of this county, and by occupation
is a farmer. He has been successful, and at present owns 3'20 acres
of land. He was married in 1875 and has two children, — James
and Mary Jane.
WilHrnn Gihson was born in lieaver Co., Pa., Aug. 7, 1833. He
resides at present upon section 8, Banner townshi]>, where he is en-
gaged in farming. The ])arents of our subject are Wm. and Hopey
(^liller) Gibson, natives of the Keystone State. Mr. G. came to
Fulton county in 1855 and ten years later was married to Agnes
Beck. They have a family of 0 children, — 4 boys and 2 girls, all
of whom are living. He belongs to the ]M. E. Church and is a
Republican in politics.
Henrij II. Ilerr, farmer, sec. 7; P. O., Canton. Parents, Abra-
ham and Fanny (Donor) Herr, were Pennsylvanians, and are now
deceased. The subject of our sketch was also born in Pa. ; educated
in Litiz AcachMny ; member of Co. A, 3()th Vet. Reg., in the war,
mustered out July, 18G5; nuirried Susan Kinzic Xov. 5, 1850, who
was a native of Montgouu-ry Co., Pa. Although Mr. H. commenced
with nothing in this township, he has made himself a fine home,
with 240 acres of land. Jiaptist. Republican.
John ir. Johnson, fanner, Monterey; P. ()., Canton, 111. His
parents, Abraham and Martha (Crawford) Johnson, were natives of
Pennsylvania ; she died in Jan., 1840, and he in Aug., 1871. John
W., born in W. Va., came to Buckheart townshij) in March, 1857,
then to the place where he now resides. He has been Commissioner
of Highways and is now Su})ervisor. In 18(50 he married Miss E.
J. Johnson, of l^uckheart township, who was born in 1840 in Wash-
ington Co., Penn. Their children are Patience Emma, born in 1862 ;
Albert Wilber, born in 1864 and died in 1869 ; and Anthony Edgar,
born in Fcl)., 18()S. Methodist Protestant. Republican. Owns 112
acres of land.
Maffhias Linfjcnfrltcr was i)orn in liedford county. Pa., Feb. 21,
1833, and is the son of Jacob and Sarah (Clear) Lingenfelter,
natives of the Keystone State. Our sid)j(H't received his education
in the common schools of his native State, and canu^ to this
county in 1848, and located in Buckheart township. His father
died in 1876 and his mother is still living. By occupation Mr. L.
is a farmer and has run a threshing-machine for 20 years. He began
work at the blacksmithing trade when 10 years old and con-
tinued at it until he was 27, and still works at it. He is the owner
of 560 acres of land in this county. He was married July 12, 1855,
to Rebecca Evans. This union has resulted in th(> birth of 14
children, — 0 bovs and 5 twirls. Four of the sons are dead. Mr. L.
is a member of the German Baptist Church. He resides upon sec.
30 ; P. C, Canton.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 473
Wakh'on Van 3[id(Uesworfh, farmer, sec. 8; P. O., Canton. His
parents, Cornelius W. and Jane (Addis) Van M., were natives of
N. J.; father died in l.S()7, and mother still living, in Canton, and
about 70 years old. Waldron was born July 12, 1838, in Newark,
N. J., married Liuira Counterman May 19, 1861, in this tp. ; she
was born Sept. 13, 1840, in this State. Their children are Willie
G., born April 19, 18G2, and Janie, March 5, 1809. Mr. Van M.
has a brother, Addis James, and a sister, Mary Neumire, married
and living in Stark Co. He has been a manufacturer of sorghnm
molasses for nearly 14 years. Has been Town Collector. Metho-
dist Protestant. Democrat.
WillanJ Mahou is engaged in agricultural pursuits upon sec. 17,
of this townshij).
/. JV. Munson. — This gentleman is engaged in farming upon sec-
tion 26, Banner township.
T. Ois, farmer, sec. 30, Banner ; P. O., Bryant.
J. M. Feters, farmer, sec. 16, Banner tp. ; P. O., Canton ; was
born in this township in 1851 ; June 5, 1879, married Patience
Prior, who is a member of the Church. He is a Democrat.
John A. Polliit is a native of this county and a son of one of the
pioneers of the county. He was born ]\Iarch 14, 18oo,and his par-
ents were Alexander and Mary E. ( Estes ) I'ullitt, natives of Ken-
tucky. In 1875 John was united in marriage with Miss Mary Ball.
Clara Mav is the name of their child. Mr. P. is enoafjed in farm-
ing upon sec. 28 ; P. O., Bryant.
Andrew Rock, farmer, sec. 31, was born in Franklin Co., Pa.,
Aug. 20, 1816, and is the son of Thomas and p:iizal)eth (Dull)
Rock. The former was of Scottish descent, and the latter of Ger-
man descent and a native of Pennsylvania. Andrew came to Can-
ton, this county, in 1851 and engaged in car])entering, at which
trade he was worked for many years. He then moved uj)on his
farm and has improved it all himself. He was married to Susanna
^lonu in 1839, who bore him 12 children, — I boys and 8 girls, — 11
of whom are living.
Mdi-ji M. 7\'or/f/-.s' was born in Indiana in 1828; her father was
Wm. Guilliams, of Tennessee, who died in 1849, and her mother,
Edith Williams, of the same State, is still living, aged about 84.
Mrs. R. first emigrated to Rock Island, thence to Missouri, and
thence to Fulton Co. 22 years ago. June 16, 1849, in Missouri, she
married Joseph Rogers, who had served in the Mexican war and
subsequently in Co. A, 31st Reg. 111. Vet., in the late war: he en-
listed Oct. 4, 1864, and was mustered out July 19, 1865. He died
in January, 1874, at the age of 49. Their children are: James
Wesley, John Farmer, ]Mary Jane, Josej)h Franklin, Wm. Douglas
and Clara Amanda. Mrs. R. has 96 acres of land on sec. 9, Jianner
tp., and is a member of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Her hus-
band was a Democrat.
Samuel B. Schcnck, farmer, Monterey; P. O., Canton. His father
474 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
"NVm., was horn in Penn. in 178G and died in 1X02; his mothor,
Sarah (Garrison), was boni in X. J. in 17!)2and died in I87(j. Emi-
gration: to McLean Co. in 18o4, to Bnckheart tp., this connty, in
1858, and to tiie present farm in 187G. Samuel B. was born June
5, 1829, in Warren Co., X. J., married Elean<»rD. Ketchum, Jan. 1,
1850, horn in the same connty Aug. 20, 1829, and have had these
chihh'cn : Alice, born in 1852; George, 1854; Estelhi, 1857; Olive,
1859; Miror, 1861 ; Minnie, 1863, died 1866; Josiah, 1865; twins,
1867, died in infancy; and Augustus, 1869. Mr. S. has 66 acres,
all in good condition. Republican. Has been School Director.
Will. F. N/z/jy^NO//, brick-layer and })]asterer, Monterey; P. O.,
Canton. His father, Wm. J., was a native of Kentucky, who emi-
grated to Indiana and thence to Illinois in 1849, and died Sept.,
1853; his mother's maiden name was Mary Logan : she was born in
Kentucky and died June 1, 1862, in Illinois. Wm. F. was born
June 11, 1826, in Ky., educated in the country schools, enlisted in
Co. I, 86th 111. Inf., promoted to Sergeant, and since has held the
offices of School Director and Constable. Nov. 22, 1853, he married
Ophelia Spencer, who was born June 6, 1833, in Cole Co., III.
They have had 8 children, namelv : T. A., born in 1857 ; Marv J.,
1858; E. L., 1859; Tavlor, 1861*, died Jan., 1863; Ida S., 1863;
Minnie, 1866 ; Dilard, "l870 ; and Jessie, 1876. Methodist Protest-
ant. Republican.
Henry Siiiith was born in Canada, of Dutch ancestry, and came to
Fulton Co. in 184U. In Canada his wages as a farm hand was al-
ways very small, but by industry and economy he is now able to
own the east half of sec. 17, Banner tp. June 18, 1846 he married
Elizabeth Hutchison. They have had no children of their own but
have brought uj> two, — Josephine and Willard Maloon. The girl
is in Iowa, married; the boy still at home. German Baptists. Re-
publican.
William H. Smith, farmer. Banner tp. ; P. O., Canton. His
father, Henry, a native of Prussia, 1777, emigrated to this country
in 1799, and married Marv Frv, a native of the Ignited States, who
died in Fulton Co., Feb. 14, 1829 ; he died Dec. 4, 1865. Wm. H.
was born Feb. 4, 1819, in Jefferson Co., Va. ; married May 24, 1839,
Mary Bybee, who died Oct. 3, same year; Nov. 19, 1840, Elizabeth
Wilcoxen, who died April 4, 1863 ; lastly, Abby Mason May 6,
1866. Children: Henry, J(»hn, Mary V., Frances, Lavina, Louisa
J., Elizabeth A., Marshall, Charlotte, James D., Wm. Henry, Eliza-
beth C, Charley, Hattie and Marcus. Mary V. married G. R.
Cobleigh ; Frances, C. N. Coykmtlall ; Louisa J., James R. Ellis;
Elizabeth, (i. C. Glassford, and Marshall was married to Rettie
Spencer. Wm. H. is a Democrat, and has been Supervisor, Town
Clerk, Trustee, Justice of the Peace, etc. His father fought against
Great Britain in the war of 1812, and was a prominent man in Ful-
ton Co. during his life.
Lauren P. Sjjruffiie, born in Oneida Co., X. Y., in 1817; married
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 475
Miss Jane Reid, a native of Winchester, Va., in 1838, in Lewis-
town, 111.; they have had 10 children, 8 of whom are living, — Mar-
garet C. (deceased), Edgar C, Stuart M., Lycurgus S., Richard B.
(deceased), Martha J., Adaline L., Thomas N., Ellen M. and Susan
F. The family came from New York to Fulton Co. in 1837 and
settled in Canton; followed farming; in 1855 bought the farm they
now occupy on sec. 1, — 87 acres.
James Turner was born near Perryville, Mercer Co., Ky., Oct.,
1813. His parents. Starling and Sophia (Carver) Turner, emigrated
from Kentucky to Sugar Grove, Sangamon (now Menard) Co., 111.,
in the fall of 1831, and in the following spring to sec. 13, Buck-
heart tp., with 10 children; they had 13 altogether. Mr. T. died
Feb. 22, 1871, aged 94 years. James Turner married Sara A.Car-
ver, daughter of Pleasant M. Carver, of Ky., April 25, 1837; she
was born June 19, 1813. They have a iiunily of 9 children, —
Henry F., Mary A., Louisa M., Wm. P., Eliza J., Lydia A., Benj.
F., Alice E. and James B., — all living and all married. They are
all in Stark Co., 111., except Alice, Benj. and Wm., who are in
this county. Starling Turner was an early Abolitionist and left
Kentucky on account of slavery. He also took a deep interest
in astronomy. Methodist.
Henri/ Wfir/cs, farmer, sec. 8; P. O., Canton. His father,
Ephraim, was born in Maryland, and died in 1849; his mother,
Nancy (Buckingham), was also born in Md.,and died in Sept., 1870.
Henry was born in Muskingum Co., O., in 1829; came, with his
parents, to Fulton Co. in 1832, to Monterey in 1835, and to his
present neighborhood in 1841 ; married Mary J. Brinager in 1856,
Nancy J. Higgins, a native of Clark Co., Ky., in 1861, and
thirdlv Mrs. Marv Bvbee. Children — John Henrv, l)<)rn Nov. 25,
1867, 'and Clara K., born Dec. 25, 1870, and died" June 16, 1871.
His second wife had 6 children by her first husband. Mr. W.
owns 240 acres of land. Democrat.
Zachnrinh Weaver, merchant, ]\Ionterey ; P. O., Canton. His
parents were Jatob and Jane (Patchell), the former a native of Vir-
ginia, and the latter of Pennsylvania and died Nov. 2, 1840. They
emigrated from Ohio to this State, arriving Nov. 8, 1841. Zachariah
was born in Hamilton Co., O., Nov. 30, 1830, educated in the country
schools, and March 8, 1854, married Rachel A. Rogers in I>iver-
pool tp. ; she was born in Saline Co., Mo., Sept. 18, 1830. Chil-
dren: Benj. F., born 1858, died 1.S64; Maria, Feb. 21,1861,
died in 1862; Emma Jane, April 18, 1862. Mr. W. was for-
merly a farmer, and has been School I)ir<>ctor and Pathmaster.
Methodist Protestant. Democrat.
H. J. W/iifniore was born in Pennsylvania in 1827. His father,
Joseph B., was a native of Maryland, married jNIiss Harclerood, of
the same State, and had 6 childi'cn, — H. J., Mary Jane ( now Mrs.
Corwin), Simon Peter, Ann A. (now Mrs. Griffin), David W., Liz-
zie (now Mrs. Hemenover, a widow) and James. The family came
476 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
to Fulton Co. in 1844 and settled on see. 30, Orion tp., buying 19G
acres, ^vhieh he still owns, but he resides now in Canton. His wife
died July 16, 1863. Mr. H. J. W. married Annie Suydam, and
they have had 4 children, 3 now living, — Xorali (now Mrs.
Richey), Belle and Ciiarles E. Mrs. W. died, and Mr. W. subse-
quently married Tillie Griffin, a native of Pennsylvania. They
have had G children, 5 now living, — Arthur, Dollie, Lillie (de-
ceased), Daisy, Bertie and Russell. Mr. W. resides on his farm
of 200 acres, sec. 6 of Banner tp., and also owns 100 acres in
Buckheart tp. For 20 years he followed grain-threshing and was
agent for the sale of threshers. At present he is engaged in buy-
ing and shipping stock in connection with farming. He is now
Superintendent of the Fulton County Fair-Ground Association.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
Below may be found a schedule of the township officials serving
since the organization of the township, together with the years of
serving :
\
SUPERVISORS.
David Marklev 1850 Joseph Shaw 1863-64
W. H. Smith ..'. 1851-54 John M.'Can 1865-70
Thomas Kane 1855-57 A.Merrill 1871
Amos Babcock 1858 Wni. H. Smith 1872-78
Wm. H. Smith 1859 Joiin \V. Johnson. 1879
John McCan 1860-62
TOWN CLERKS.
Wm. H. Smith 1850 Xoah Romine 1857-59
Wm. C. Killsa 1851-53 W. C. Killsa 1860-69
Noah Romine 1854 Martin Davis 1870
Wm. C. Killsa 1855-56 W. C. Killsa 1871-79
ASSESSORS.
Geo. W. Chinn 1850-1 C W. Van Mickllesworth .. 1S60-C4
W. C. Killsa 1.S52 Charles Killsa 1865-75
A. T. Atwater 1853 John A. Logan 1870-77
Noah Romine 1854-58 Charles Killsa 1878
Charles Killsa 1859 John A. Logan 1879
COLLECTORS.
John McKinley 1850 John McKinley 1866
Richanl Motsinger 1851-52 JamesDonaho 1867
A. W. Inman 1853 John McKinlev 1868
Wm. D. Bili)y 1854-55 Robert Barlow'. 1869
Douglas Mct'an 1856-58 Martin L. Davis 1870
JamesDonaho 1859 James S. Kennedv 1871-72
Noah Romine 1860 Thomas McCan ..." 1873-74
Douglas McCan 1861-62 Martin L. Davis 1875-76
Samuel T. Wilson 1863-64 Joseph S. Addis 1877-78
JamesDonaho 1865 W. Van Middlesworth 1879
BUCKHEART TOWNSHIP.
Buckhoart is counted among the best townships of this county,
although at one time much of its surface was covered with a heavy
growth of timber. This township was early settled by the whites
and ere long much of the timbered sections were interspersed with
cabins and settlers. A large portion of the lands bearing timber,
and the smaller groves, were claimed, if not occupied, while the prai-
rie for the most part was left untouched and unsought. The prairie
land was regarded as worthless for purposes of agriculture, and
considered a useless waste. There were hundreds of men at that
time who believed it would never be occupied. If any of the first
settlers had located upon the j)rairie he would have been regarded
as extremely visionary, if not absolutely crazy. Of those whose
names appear among the early pilgrims, many removed from the
township ere many years had flown ; others followed from year to
year, settling in other localities; others have passed to the shining-
shore of the Beautiful River, while many still remain in the enjoy-
ment of the homes of their industry, endurance and enterprise,
fashioned and founded in the beautiful lands of Buckheart.
The surroundings of pioneer life are well calculated to test the
true inwardness of the human heart, and the trials, sufferings and
endurance incident to the founding and building of homes, unite them
in the strongest and deepest feelings of friciidshij), that grows and
strengthens with their years. Raven locks may bleach and whiten ;
full round cheeks wither and waste away; the fires of intelligence
vanish from the organs of vision ; the brow become wrlidvled with
care and age, and the erect form bowed with accunudating years,
but the true friend of long ago Avill be remendjcred as long as life
and reason endure. It is thus in our visits among the veteran pio-
neers of Buckheart. The memories of their early life here are re-
called with pleasure.
The origin of the name of this to^vnship is very amusing and is
traced back to the early history of the county. In 1850 when the
township was organized it adopted the name of the election precinct
that embraced this district prior to that time. Buckheart precinct
was named from Buckheart creek that runs through it, and it was
christened in honor of a grove called Buckheart Grove, which it
passed through. The grove received the name of Buckheart in the
following manner: About 1824 John Pixley, a tall, gaunt red-
headed fellow, a great blow and something of a hunter, and of whom
478 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
we speak in the first chapter, shot a buck near where the Woolen
Factory of Canton now stands. The deer was wounded ; Pixley
swore it had been shot through the lieart. He followed it across
the prairie to the head of what is now Buck heart Grove, where he
lost track of it. Pixley used to tell the story as an instance of the
wonderful tenacity of life possessed by deer, always insisting that he
had unquestionably shot that buck through the heart, and that after-
ward he had followed it five miles and it finally escaped him.
The grove where it disappeared was called Buckhcart Grove in de-
rision of this story, and the stream running through it received the
same name, which was also afterward extended to the township.
The first pioneers to locate in this township, then so highly prized
for its beautiful timber, were Seth Hilton and Hazael Putman. The
first mill was a water-mill, built on Big creek by John Eveland and
Asa Johnson in 1828. This Eveland is the same man referred to in
the first chapter as being the first settler of the county. He left
Waterford township and came to Buckheart a short time before this,
where he died a few vears afterwards. The first church organized
in the township was in 1825 l)y the Regular Baptists. There was a
school-house built in the township as early as 1825 or '26, thus
showing that the earliest pilgrims had a love for religion and a de-
sire to educate their children. Who the first teacher was is not now
known.
Bryant Methodist Episcopal Church. — There had been no regular
Methodist Church within three miles of Bryant until 1846, when
Johnson Smitli and wife, Edward Ashtun and wife, John Conner,
wife and two daughters, Wm. Morse, wife and two daughters, and
John Morse and wife met at the school-house on the northeast cor-
ner of sec. 32, fur the purpose of organizing a Methodist society,
Rev. Mr. Shinn being the preacher. From this time regular Meth-
odist meetings were held at this school-house until the new church
edifice was built at l^ryant. A subscription was taken in 1 868, for the
purpose of building a new church edifice and the building was fin-
ished the following fall, costing §2,80(1. The first regular Methodist
preacher was Rev. Mr. Hunter ; present membership about 60.
Bryant Christian Church. — The first organization of the Antioch,
now the Bryant, Christian Church was in June, 1854, at Mr. T. X.
Hasson's, and consisted of the following members: Wm. G. Kirk-
patrick, Mrs. K. E. C. Kirkpatrick, Theophilus N. Hasson, Mrs.
Margaret Hasson, Solomon Davis, Mrs. Eliza Davis, Mrs. Deborah
Snyder, Misses Ellen, Elizal)cth and Cartiline Snyder, Mrs. Lucinda
Putnam, Heman Johnscui, Louisa J. Laws, Samuel Rowley, Mrs.
Amy Rowley, Mrs. Paulina Harberson and others. Wm. G. Kirk-
j)atrick was elected Elder and T. \. Hasson Deacon. Elders Wm.
Howard and John W. Hoj)kins presided at the meeting, and preached
here occasionally f<>r several years. Elder Wm. Grisson was the
first permanent preacher. The first permanent church edifice was
erected on sec. 6, Liverpool tp., in 186]. James C, Wilcoxen
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 479
donated the land, and the total expense of building and furnishing
was about ^2,000. It was moved to Bryant in the s})ring of 1869,
whore it now stands. Elder 11. E. Puette has been pastor of the
conirree-ation for sometime, but has recently severed his connection
with it.
St. Dai-id Mi'thodid Epkcopal Church.— The Methodists of St.
David and vicinity held meetings in various school-houses and in
the Mormon Church at St. David until the spring of 1876, when
they erected an edifice of their own, naming it Shryock's Chapel,' as
Mr. Shryock was a large contributor. The society numbers 25 and
belongs to Canton circuit. Average attendance at Sunday-school
about 65. L. S. Hitchens was the first preacher appointed after the
chapel was built.
Odd Fellows. — Bryant Lodge, No. 619, I. O. O. F., received its
charter October 11, 1876, when the members were John Virgil, F.
M. Williams, Wni. C. Staton, George Humphrey and Eugene
Smith. The charter is signed by N. C. Nason, Grand Secretary,
and John H. Oberly, Grand Master. Present membership about 19.
Bryant Temperance Societies. — In the winter of 1877-8 a lodge
of Good Tem])lars was organized in this [)lace, holding their meet-
ings in the M. E. ciiurch. Samuel and Alonzo Wilcoxen, James
Kirkpatrick, JNIiss Louia Chapman and others were the leading
spirits. The membersliip increased to 50 ; but the next winter the
society was mero-ed into the Blue Ribbon movement under the man-
agement of Daniel K. Shield, and the membcrshij) is now about
100. The movement has resulted in the reform of several well-
kno\yn "confirmed" drunkards.
Bri/ant Steam Saw- Mill. — J. M. Hasson, jr., Dr. D. O. Wedge
and Eugene Smith, under the firm name of Hasson, Wedge &
Smith, run a large suw-mill at Bryant, wiiich has a capacity of
6,000 to 8,000 feet per day; has averaged 100,000 feet per month.
The engine is 25-horse power. They employ a large force contin-
ually during the busy seasons.
Joseph Baker, farmer, was born in Sycamore township, Hamil-
ton Co., O., Sept. 15, 1813, and is the son of Jacob and lodana
(Sipes) Baker, floseph came to this county in 1835 and located in
Canton and engaged at carpentering. He remained there for 6
years, and then followed threshing for 8 years; has lived on his
present farm since 1851. He was united in marriage to Xancv A.
Miller, Oct. 22, 1859. She was a daughter of Eli A. Bauinan,
and died June 16, 1872. Mr. B.'s farm is on the northwest quarter
of sec. 33 and on sec. 28. This place was heavily timbered when
Mr. B. bought it in 1859, and there is now 100 acres sul)ject to the
plow and well improved. He has been Assessor and Collector of
the township.
Linville Ballard, farmer, was born near Winchester, Clark Co.,
Ky., Jan., 1819; parents were John and Xaney ( liybee ) ]5allard,
the latter a daughter of James By bee, Clark Co., Ky., and natives
480 HISTORY or FTLTON COr>'TY.
of Virginia. Linville came to Liverpool, this county, Dec. 11,
1852, and a vear afterward he bought a 60-acre farm on sec. 26,
Buekheart tp. He now has 240 acres, altogether. All except
about $600 he has accumulated here by his own labor. In 1853
he married Lavina Bauman, daughter of Peter Bauraan, and they
now have 7 children, — Amanda Elmira, ^lary M., Thomas W.,
Josie, Leroy, Peter and Harry F. Mr. B. is a Democrat, and has
been School Director for some 16 or 20 years continuously.
Xathaniel Butler Banks, deceased, came to Fulton Co. in 1835,
and located on land now partly occupied by Cuba. He afterwards
bought land on sec. 17, Buekheart tp., to which he moved his fam-
ily in 1847. He resided on this farm until his death, which occurred
Jan. 20, 1878, in the 76th year of his age. He was born in Con-
necticut, and raised in New York. His wife was Ann B. Artman,
with whom he lived over 50 years. She still resides on the old
homestead with Henry W. Johnsou. They had a family of 10 chil-
dren, 7 of whom are living: Margaret, Ruth, Joshua, Sarah,
Thomas C Henry W. .J., Mary Ann and Elizabeth. Two of the
sons were in the late war. W m. S. enlisted in the 103d 111. Inf.
and died after serving only a few months. John M. enlisted in Co.
A, 55th 111. Inf., in Aug. 1861, and was killed at the battle of Pitts-
burg Landing. He was a Corporal.
Eli A. Bauman, farmer, was born in \Wshington, D. C, and
married Margery Paston, a native of Cumberland Co., Pa. They
came and settleil on sec. 23, this tp., in 1838, building a two-story
log house the next vear, and moving into it with their familv of 9
children. (The cabin is still standing.) The children were Peter,
Samuel, Eli, Catherine, Charlotte, Xancy, Eliza and Marger}' Ann.
All have married except Margery, who is deceased. Samuel married
a Miss Frakes, now deceased, and he still lives in Wayne Co., la.
Eli married Julia Mocksby, lived in Wayne Co., Iowa, and died
there, leaving three children. Catherine married Gideon Carver
and lives in this tp. Charlotte married Jae«»b Fisher and lives also
in this tp. Nancy tirst married Samuel Miller, and after his death
she married Joseph Baker, since which time she has died. Eliza
married Jerr^^ Ford, and has since died. Mr. Bauman is still living
in Wayne county, Iowa.
Peter Bainnnn, farmer, son of preceding, was l)om near Carlisle,
Cumberland Co., Pa., May 27, 1813; married Mar\- Ann, daughter
of Thos. T. Bybee, in 1839, in Buekheart tp. He has a family of 12
children, namely, Lavina, Thomas Eli, Minerva (last two deceased),
Jemima, Evaline (dec), ^Llry E., William H. (dec.), Debby A.,
Louisa, Julia, Frank and Elmer. Thos. Eli was killed in a run-
away of horses in 1855. The three others died of scarlet fever in
1857, and were all buried in one grave I ,,
Jemima married John H. Snider and lives in this tp. ; Mar^• E.
married John W. Horton. and also lives in this tp. ; Debby A.
marrie<l John J. Farris, and lives here, and Louisa married Herman
Homer and lives 5 miles west of Farmington, this county.
HISTOBT OF FTXTOX COXTSTY. 481
Mr. Baninan is now living on sec. 27, Bnekheart tp., on wiuch he
has made all the improvement? himself. In 1)^1 Hi he bnOt a laig<e
2| storv house, with L, a large new bam and other buildings^ so
that now he has one of the finest £uins in the eoonty. In politics
he is a Democrat.
John W RtH^, fiirmer and operator of a saw-milt, sec. 24 , is a na-
tive of Highland Co., O., where he was bom in 1^*4^. His par«-nt^
were Elisha and Sarah (iDanghertyJ Beets, who now reside in Ban-
ner tp. John W. enlisted to serve in the Union Armv during the
war, Oct. 12, \mA^ in the li)th HI. Inf., Co. B. He was with Sher-
man on his i^moos march to the sea ; was taken sick at Washington^
D. C, sent to Sj^ringfield and mustered out Aug. 9, l(Si<5-5. He oi-
listed in Co. K, lOth U. S. Reg. Inf., March 10, \mi for 3 years.
He served 2 vears at Ft. Wadsworth. D. Tv, and one vear on the
Rio Grande, in Texas. He married Caroline M. Fonts Aug. 3,
1871, who is a daughter of Wm. Fonts and was bom July ISt. 1M<5.
Thev have a &mUy of 3 children, — BntPinia. Imm Jini!v W. '72. Frank.
Aug. 8, '74, and Lena, May 30, '77.
Thomta* T. Bybee^ fiirmer, deceased, was bom in Clark Co-, Ky.,
Sept., 1798. He married and had two sons, David, born in l^iS»,
and James, in 1821. His second wilfe* was a widow Jennings, who
also had two sons, James and Flijah. Her maiden name had been
Deborah Wilcoxen, and she was b«>m in Ash Co., y. C, March 3,
1801. Two daughters were the ilrait of the last marriage^ Lavina^
b.>ra Feb. 12. 1^21. and Mary Ann, bom in 1826. David Bybee
first married a Mis.s Spencer, who died, and afterwards he married
Margery Ann Ballard, and they no%r live in Canton. James mar-
ried a Miss Beunyer and subsequently <^ed. leaving a &mi]v, in
Banner tp. Lavina married Wm. H. Smith, and has since deceised,
leaving a l&mily. als<u> in Banner tp. Mary Ann married Peter
Banman. whose sketch is given above.
Mr. Thomas T. Bybee came to this county in the winter of the
deep snow » 1S3«>-31 ». and commenced with | sec. of land. He died
April 8, 1872. leaving property estimated at $300,000, which be
made at terming, de^tling in st«x*k, etc. He was a Democrat.
Samuel Otrju^rr was bom in L/>ndonderry. Pa., in 1819. He first
came to Dlinois in 18o0 and bought the fiirm upon which he now
resides, and upon which he has put fine improvements^ — all the re-
snlt of his own lab«.T»rs- His parents were Samuel and Christina
I Myers H Carper, both natives (cf Lebanon Co., Pa. The Carpers
are an old family, and date back in the history of America fti&r to
the Revolution. The grandparent of the subject of this sketch was
a soldier under Washington. Mr. C. in 184!* married Elisabeth
Baker, in Bedfoixi C«».. Pa. She was a daughter o^ Jacob and
Fanny Baker. They have 3 children : Levi, Jacob and Mary J.
John \V Carry, ifarmer, was bom in 1 '841. in Lewistown tp. His
fether. David C^y, of Ireland, died while John was very yooi^.
The latter was then adopted by Samuel WUcoxwi, and when c€
482 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
]Mr. W. deeded to him 80 acres of land on sec. 17, on -svliich he has
since resided, fn 18G3 he married Eliza J. Porter, of Piitman
tp., and their chihlren are Cliarles Traverse, E.ssie Pollen and Louisa
Dell. Mr. C. exels in raising Poland China hogs, and at a fair at
Canton one time he took the first prize, $1,0()(). He is interested
also in fine cattle, having now a small herd of short-horns, among
them a fine ten-year-old hull ('*Star-(iazer" ), which is the sire of
one of the finest heifers in Kentucky ("Fanny Foster"). Mr. C.
has also a thoroughbred French Canadian stallion ("French
Roland"), which took the first premium at the Canton fair of 1878,
for all purposes, and also at other fairs. Besides, Mr. C. has other
high-grade animals, to describe Avhieh we have not,'jpace here.
Mr. and Mrs. Carey are members of the United Brethren Church ;
he has been School Director, Township Collector, etc. National
Greenbackcr, with Republican ])roclivities.
Gideon Cnnrr, farmer, sec. 128 ; was born in ^ladison Co., Ivy.,
Nov. 25, 181(5. His father was Pleasant M. Carver, avIio was born
in the Old Dominion in 1788, and died in Nov., 1876, Gideon's
mother was Catharine Carver, nee Shryock, who was born in Fayette
Co., Ky. She died in 18(35. P. M. Carver came to this county in
1833, and located on sec. 22, this tp., where both he and his wife
died. Gideon Carver married Catharine A. Bauman, daughter of
Eli A. Bauman, Sept. 26, 1839. She has borne a family of 7 chil-
dren : John, James, both deceased, Henry, P^liza, Sarah, Ellen and
Jas])er. Henry married lone [jaus, and lives on sec. 21. Ellen
married Frederick Ij. Fisher, of Chamj>aign Co., HI.
Eugene Chnrehilf, farmer and stock-dealer, sec. 23 ; P. O., Bryant ;
was born in N. Y., Oct. 14, 1840; parents were Silas and Esther;
in the late war he Avas a member of Co. C, 9th N. Y. Cav. Vol. ;
served 18 months, being in several hard-fought battles; married
Rebecca Whitney in 187(5, a native of Illinois. Mr. C. makes a
specialty of fine stock, — Poland-China hogs, Hamblctonian and
Messenger horses, etc.
Snmuc/ A. Ciinninr/hau), was born on Welsh Run, near Mercers-
burg, Pa., ^[ay 4, 1820, and is the son of David and Ann (Alexan-
der) Cunningham, the former a native of the same place, the latter
of Havre De Gras, Md. S. A. came to this county May 4, 1849.
He visited friends near Overman's Mound a tew days and finally
located in Canton and carried on blacksniithing. Tn 1851 he bought
a farm in Canton tj). of 107 aei'cs ; he lived there till 1S56 when he
moved to his present farm of 275 acres on sees. 3 and 4. This
place has some of the finest improvements upon it that are in the
county. He also owns 335 acres one mile s(uith of the old home
farm; also 40 acres near Springfield, 111., nicely imjtroved ; and also
80 acres in Orion tj)., and a small piece on sec. 19, Jiuckheart. He
was married March 21, 1.S48, to Elizabeth Boyd. The children
born to them were Ann Rebecca, who was born in 1849 and died in
1864;Chas. Clinton, Sarah Pollen, James Edgar, Thomas J., all living
niSTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 483
at homo. Mr. C. started in active life at the age of 21 Avitli noth-
ing hnt hands and head to make his way. To wlint good advantage
he has ]Kit all these, his record shows.
Joseph Evatifi, fanner, sec. 30, was born in Licking Co., O., Ang.
19, 1810. His parents were John and Hannah (Inscoe) Evans; the
former a native of Wales, the mother of ( )iiio. Joseph came to
this eonnty in 18o4 and located in TJver]»ool tj). He soon went
w'est, bnt returned in 18()0. He married Klizabeth Moreland in
Licking Co., O., Dec. 26, 1831. She was a daughter of Bazaleel
and Margaret (Fahs) INIoreland. She was born in Ham})shire Co.,
Va., June 22, 1807. They have been blessed with 10 children, 9
of whom are living: Peter, John, INIargaret, Rebecca and Johanna,
twins, Philip F., Elizabeth J., David W., .lames K. P., and Kich-
ard M. Three of their sons, John B., Philip F. and David W.,
served in the late war. They enlisted at the same time, Oct., 1802,
in Co. C, lOord regt., at Canton. David was wounded at the battle
of Kenesaw Mountain, in the hi]), which disabled him and he was
discharged in the spring of '05. One month later John and Philip
were both wounded at the battle of Atlanta. John had one finger
shot off. Philip was shot in the left arm and knee. The latter re-
ceived his discharge the same time David did. .rohn B. remained
till the close of the war and was Mith Sherman on his famous
march.
John J. Farr'iK, firmer, son of John K. Farris, was born in Isa-
bel t)i. this county ; married Deblji(>, daughter of Peter Banman,
July 23, 1874; have had •") ehihlren : Edward, the only one living,
was bgrn May 7, 1870. Mr, Farris is Independent in jKditics.
John K. Fnrrix, deceased, was brought by his father, John Farris,
from Kentucky to Liv(M-pool tp. in 1837 or '38. He married INIary,
daughter of James Pollitt. an early settler, and died Dec. 24, 1878.
His wife is still living in Isabel tp.
Frederick Fii^hcr was an early settler of Buckheart tp. He came
to this county with his wife and 4 children in 1831. The children
were I^arbara, deceased, Jacob, .Tolui and Henry. Those born in
this eountrv were Cvnthia A,, Marv J., Sarah D., Daniel G., Clara
M., Isabel "H., Elizabeth, Ellen O'. and Frederick L. Six of the
children are still iivinu' in this county. Cynthia married David Cop-
pie and lives in Indiana ; Sarah married ^Farion Kimberlan and
lives in Missouri. Clara M. married John Ford and resides in
Iowa. Isabel married Jacob Fonts ; Ivlizabetli married Wm. Har-
per; Ellen mar-ried Thos. Butts ; Jacob married Charlotte Banman;
John married INIelissa Maxwell, all of whom live in this county.
Henry marritnl Naomi Shields; David marricMl Mary Ellis and
Frederick married Ellen Carver. These live in Cham])aign Co.,
111. Mr. F. settled on S. W. quarter of see. 11, which he improved.
He bought sec. 23, which he also improved and lived upon till his
death, which occurred July 5, 1870. His widow, who was Sarah,
Fouts, born in Clark Co.,"lnd., Oct. 5, 1807, still lives at the old
484 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
liomcstoad. Both Avore members of the i\I. E. Church, but of later
years both were members of the Christian Church. During the
" Westerfiekl Defeat" this family indulged in the general scare and
went over the river to Sugar Grove and remained 2 weeks.
John FisJter, son of Frederick Fisher, is engaged quite extensively
in agriculture on sec. 2, owning some 1,300 acres of land, all im-
proved bv himself He was born October 2, 1827, in Washington,
Clark Co., Ind. He married Melissa Maxwell Oct. 10, 1850. They
have 7 children: Jose])hine, born Aug. 17, '51 ; Alice, June 6, '54;
Willard, Jan. 17,'59; Leonard, Oct. 17,'61 ; Charles, April 7,'64 ;
Attie, Aug. 17,'69, and Dolly B., Oct. 1, '71. Alice married
Francis M. Fonts Dec. 21, '76.
Jacob Fisher, son of Frederick Fisher, Avas born in Clark Co.,
Ind., in 1825. He married Charlotte Bauman Jan. 1, 1850, in Van
Buren Co., Iowa. They have one child, Olive E., who was born
Aug, 21, 1858.
Andrew Fonts was born in Clark Co., Ind., in 1807, and came to
this county in 1829. He married in Jan., 1834, Eliza Ann Hufford,
a native of Buford Co., Ky., and a daughter of George Hufford.
They have but one son, Martin Fonts. Daniel Fonts was the father
of Andrew, and his grandfather was Jacob Fonts, who emigrated
from Germany to the U. S. before the Revolution. Daniel Fonts
settled on sec. 10, where he died at the age of 92 years. Andrew,
his brother Emsley and Demps Garen tlie first Avinter they came
kept bachelors' hall in a little log house and liA'cd on game, corn
cake and "corn juice." In an carlv day at Mr> F.'s house AAcreheld
Methodist meetings CA'cry 2 Avceks until a school-house Avas built.
The first minister on the circuit AA'as Rga*. Henrv Summers. Thev
AA'erc here during the "big snow,'' when game was A-ery timid. One
of their neighbors in riding along the path oA-ertook a AAolf He
sprang from his horse, caught it and cut its tiiroat. Their first
cook-stOA'e AA^as procured by taking a Avagoii load of AA'iieat to Chi-
cago and bringing the stoA'c back. The Avheat did not sell for
enough to ])ay for the stove. !Mrs. F. s[)un and avoa'c all the cloth
for Avearing ap])arel, from the raw fiax. She has cloth in the house
noAA' that she made from flax that tliey raised.
Frnnri.-i M. Fonts Avas born on the old homestead of his father's,
Dougan Fonts, on sec. 1-1, upon Avhich he still resides. Dougau
Fonts was a native of Indiana, and his i'ather Avas Jacob Fonts, one
of the earliest settlers in this county. Dougan Fonts' Avife Avas
Sarah Hutchinson, a native of Virginia. She is still living with
her son FrantMs, at the age of 05 years. Her husband died March
27, 1802. Her father, Zachariah Hutchinson, came to this county
in 1835. Dougan Fonts had a family of 6 girls and one son :
Eleanor, Avho married Cyrus Babcock ; Elizabeth married Archibald
Carver; Rebecca married John Carleton ; Harriet married George
Hammitt ; Saraii married John ProA'ard ; Nancy married T. J.
Kelly, and Francis M. married Alice, daughter of John Fisher.
^s%^.
? ■
THOMAS T.BYBEE:
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 487
Jacob Fonts, deceased, was a native of North Carolina and was
born in 1788. Hi^ wife was Eleanor Don<i|;an,and was born in 1790
in the same State. The Fontsesare of P^no-Hsh deseent. His father
was Jacob, and the first one of the name mc can trace came from En-
gland. Jacob Fonts came to this connty abont 1831, from Indiana,
bringing a family of 9 ehildren, — Dongan, Rebecca, Jacob, Wm.,
Sarah, Tiiomas, f^lizabeth J,, Levi and Lewis. Francis C. and
Malcolm C. were born in this connty. Thomas, Elizabeth and Mal-
colm are still living in this connty. Jacob Fonts located on sec.
14, where he lived for 15 vears, and finallv moved to sec. 12, where
he died in Oct., 1874. Mrs. F. died Nov. 17, 1858.
JIdlcoIin C. Fonts, yonngest son of Jacob Fonts, is living on the
old homestead on sec. 12. He was born in 1836 on this farm; was
married March 30, 1859, to Jnlia Fonts, of Buckheart tOAvnship,
and danghterof John Fonts, an early settler who now resides in the
sonthern part of the State. They have a family of 7 children :
Florence A., Rebecca J., Hattie N., Nellie D., Charles L., Sophia
D., and jSLiry M., all of whom are living.
Frank JL Harrison, M. D., was born in Licking Co.,0., in 1856.
His parents, Spencer H. and Georgiana (Hall) H., were natives of
Ohio and came to this connty in 1855, settling at Cnba, where Mr.
H. now resides: Mr. H. died abont 1868. Frank M. read medi-
cine under Dr. J. K. Welch, of Cuba, five years, and in 1878
graduated at the College of l^hysicians and Surgeons, Keokuk, la.,
since which time he has praticed at Bryant. Independent in poli-
tics, Avith a Democratic tendency.
/. J/, i/c^s'.so/?,.//-., merchant and lumber manufacturer, was born
in Lewis Co., Ky., in 1830. His parents were Theophilns N.
and Margaret (Riley) Hasson, who emigrated to the vicinity of
Beardstown (in Sehuyler Co.) in 1834; from 1837 to 1855 Mr. H.
resitled on a farm 2\ miles nortiieast of Lcwistown ; then he was in
the drug business in I>ewistown until his death, Dec. 28, 1877. He
was formerly a Whig, and since 1854 a Republican : was Justice of
the Peace in Lewistown township for 20 or 25 years. He had a
family of 7 children, 61 iving, — Luuisi, James >L, Mary (died at the
age of 16), Wm. R., Celinda C, Elvira S., Charles N. and Henry
C. James M. married Emily Waldron at Lewistown Sej)t. 1, 1853,
who was a native of New York near Rochester. They have 4
children, — Celinda, John H., Frank and Laura. ^Ir. H. is now of
the firm of Hasson, Wedge & Smith, operating a saw-mill at Bryant,
sawing and shiji)>ing about 100,000 ft. of lumber a month, mostly
hard-wood. Mr. 11. is also carryingon a general merchandise business
at Bryant, doing at least §25,000 per annum. He is a "stalwart"
Republican, and he and his wife are members of the Christian
Church.
William Herriot, proprietor of the Bryant House, Bryant, was born
in ^lunson Co., Pa., 1813. His parents, Jesse and Annie (Prawl)
Herriot, moved to Genesee Co., N. Y., when he was quite small and
30
488 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
/
whore he was raise;l. He was united in marriage with ^far in, daugh-
ter of Josiah and Bt'tsv (Kellogg,) Carrier, at Avon, N. Y., Oct. 1,
1813. Mrs. H. was i)nrn in Hartf<.rd Co., Ct. The grandiather of
Mr. H. came from Scotland and settled in Pennsylvania, and was
a soldier under Washington in the Revolution. The Carriers are
also of Seotch descent, their ancestors coming to America prior to the
Revolution. Wm. H.cameto this county in lS4(i and located in El-
lisville, where he carried on i)lacksniithing some 10 years. He then
moved upon a farm on sec. IS, Deerticld township, where he ])assed
another decade. He came to Bryant in 18G4 and carried on black-
smithing for several years, but now rents his shop. Of his children,
Emilv M. married Jeremiah J. Jackson and lives in Dixon Co.,
Kans. ; Florence L. married Dr. D. O. Wedge and resides in Bry-
ant; Chauncey L. married Irene A. Hasson, and Albert L. lives
with his parents. Mrs. Wm. G. came with her parents from Con-
necticut to Xew York in a two-horse wagon, and herself and hus-
band came from that State to Fulton Co. in a two-horse wagon, the
trip taking 28 days. Thus she made the whole trip from Hartford,
Ct., in a wagon.
Abraham Hews, born in 1818, first came to this county in 1846,
and except 18(30-2, when he was in Iowa, has remained here,
engaged principally in farming. Aug. 8, 1852, near Cuba, he mar-
ried Parmelia, daughter of Hiram Sanders. She was b(U'n in 1834.
Their children are John W., Abraham Lincoln, Gardiner E., Bcnj.
H., Laura A. The three younger are still at home. Republican.
Benjain'ni Hrn-fi was liorn in Saratoga Co., N. Y., near Saratoga
Springs, in 1821. John and Polly (Schriver) Avere his parents,
both natives of Dutchess Co., X. Y., and of English and German
descent. Mr. H. was married at Saratoga Sj)rings in 1843 to Eliza
Ann Rose. In 1846 he came to this county and located in Put-
man tp. In 18.34 he bought a farm on sec. i), Buckheart, and the
following spring moved on it and has since resided there, and pat
substantial improvements on it. The marriage ab(^ve spoken of
has resulted in the birth of 6 children : Henrv A., born Oct. 19,
1844; John, July 31, '4o ; William, June 13, '62; Julia A., Aug.
4, '54, and Joseph, born Sept. 13, 1856. Julia married Adam
Wrigly, and met her death by being burnt by the explosion of a
kerosene lamp. She left one child, Anna, who is living with her
grandjia rents.
Hcnrii Hlndx was among the pioneers of this county, coming in
1832. He was a native of Virginia. He was united in marriage
with Martha Steel in Westmoreland Co., Pa. They first settled on
sec. 3, Buckheart tp., where they lived till 1836, when tliey moved
to Young Hickory tj)., where Mrs. Hinds died March 4, 1859. Mr.
H. died July (>, 18(59, in Joshua tp., at the house of his son-in-law,
Job Wolke. Their chiklrenare: Alexander, who lives upon the
homestead in Young Hickory, Mary (Walker), Jacob, Elizabeth
(Wilson), living in Nebraska, Martha (Bredwell), of Canton,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 489
Hettie (Dow), of Canton, Rosana ( Hamilton ), dit'd in April, 1841.
Jacob Ilimh lives on sec. 3, Buckhoart townshij), on the old
homestead where his father, Henry Hinds, first settled on coming
to this connty in 1832. He was born May 25, 1817, and has a
family oi' 4 children: John, Frank, Alice and Em. He was mar-
ried in Canton tp. in 1<S40 to Sarah Juhnsou, a native of Clai'k Co.,
Ind., who is still living.
Geo. W. Horfon was born in Licking Co., Ohio, Sept. 27, 1840, *
a son to Robert Horton, who was a native of Cnl])epper Co., Va.,
and who married Polly 8mith, a native of the same county, and of
German descent. Geo. W. came to this connty in the fall of 1855,
and in the following spring he went to Iowa; but in 1859 he re-
turned to Fulton Co. to remain. In Aug., 1862, he enlisted at Can-
ton in the 103d 111. Vol. Inf , Co. C, as Corporal ; served until
July, 18(i5, being under Gen. John A. Logan during the whole
time; was sick only two or three months, and that was with the
measles, and never wounded ; engaged in 28 or more battles and
skirmishes; went through with (iren. Sherman to the sea, and closed
at Bentonville, X. C. ; was mustered out at Louisville, Ky., and
received his discharge ])a])ers at Chicago. Returning to this coun-
ty, he married Mary E. Bauman July 25, 1807, daughter of Peter
Bauman. Have had 0 children, 4 living, as follows: Minerva
Evaline, July (i, ISliS; Tlios. T., Oct. 7, 1869; Hattie Amanda,
Feb. 3, 1872"; Marv Matilda, Oct. 26, 1873; Lovina Amelia, Feb.
9, 1875, died March 13, 1875; Georgia Ann, born Aug. 19, 1876,
died Nov. 6, 1877. T\\v family are living on the old Thos. T. By-
bee homestead, sec. 35. Mr. Horton is a Democrat, and has been
School Director several terms.
Francis Marion Jfnfford was born June 22, 1834. He enlisted
in Co. A, 55th 111. Inf., and served in tlie late Mar till his death,
which occurred Nov. 19, 18(53, when he died of disease contracted
in the army. He was taken prisoner at the battle of Shiloh and
afterwards paroled. Two of his children now live in this county.
They are Margery and Marion, both living on sec. 10, with their
UDcle, Andrew Fonts. Mr. H. married Hannah J. Bull, daughter
of Wni. Bull, of Cui)a, Fei). 10, 1X56, and'shc dicil May 22, 1858.
\V)n. JIunnnt/, farmer, was born Dec, 1810, in Licking Co., O. ;
his father, Jacob, was a native of Chester Co., Pa., and his mother,
Fanny ( MeNaughton ) Hummil, was of Scotch-Irish descent.
There were 3 children in the family; in 1830, Mr. Jacob Hummil
with his second wife and 11 children came to Fult<»n Co., — Tliomas,
William, Elizabeth, Jacob, Rcbcccii, John, Samuel, Fanny, Eva-
line, Eden and Nathan ; Henry was born in this county. Besides,
they left 4 children in Ohio, — ^latthias, Mary Ann, Drusilla and
James. The family located on S. W. ] of sec. 31, this tp. AVm,
married Nancy ^L Wilcoxen, daughter of Elijah W., Jan. 2, 1834,
and they have had 10 children, 8 of whcnn are living, — Mary E.,
Isaiah M., John Calhoun, Anna, Jesse B., Charlotte, Nancy M. and
490 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Lavina. All arc living in this connty except Mary E., ■vvho lives
in Davis Co., Iowa, and John ('., at Golden, Boulder Co., Col.
All are married except John C. Mr, and Mrs. H. are members
of the Christian Church.
Lorenzo Jameson, deceased, was a native of Canaan, Grafton Co.,
N. H., and was born March 11, 1<S16. His father, Jeremiah
Jameson, was born in Feb., 1786. The elder Jameson's wife was
Sarah Chase, daughter of Samuel Chase, of Salem, X. H. The
family originally came from Scotland. Our subject came
to this county in the spring of 1854 and settled in Can-
ton, and in 1855 bought a farm on section 5, this township, where
he resided till his demise, which occurred May '2'2, 1874, The
homestead is now owned and occupied by his only child, John A.,
who was born in Xcw Hampshire August 17, 1849. His wife's
name was Deborah ^Yhitticr, who was born in Newport, N. H., in
J 813, Her grandfather, Thomas Whittier, enlisted under AVash-
ington at the age of 15 and served during the 7-years war. Wm. J.
is still living; John A. Jameson married Martha ]McCreary, daugh-
ter of Nicholas and Martha (Moran) McCrcary of Putman tp., Jan.
19, 1875. Two children w'ere born to them: Sumner L,, born
March 1, 1876, and Alice L,, born Feb, 9, 1878.
Anderson M. Jarnar/in, farmer, deceased, was born in Tennessee
Feb. 9, 1805, brought up in Ohio, came to Illinois in an early day,
locating in Knox countv, and died March 25, 1878. He married
Elizabeth Bradley in Highland Co., 0„ Aug., 1828, where their 3
first children were born, — Sarah, Mav 28, 1829 ; Isaac M., April 10,
1831 ; Ellen, Jan. 30, 1835. About* 1840 they removed to Knox
Co., 111., where Eliza was born Dec. 23, 1841, and John H, and
Wm. A. (twins) July 25, 1844. Wm. A. died April 11, 1865, and
2 children died in infancy. ]\Ir. J. wasa Dem<icaat. Mrs. J's fath-
er, Daniel Bradlev, was a native of Ireland, and she was born in
Rockbridge Co., Va. Aug. 20, 1809.
John H. Jarmir/in, son of the preceding, in 1862 married Sarah
McClatchy, a native of Ohio. She died Nov., 1867, leaving 2 chil-
dren,— Mary Ellen, who died at the age of 3 years, and Lerov.
Mr. J. afterwards miirrit'd I>eah Williams, June L"), 1868.by wluun
he has 4 children, — Myrtle, Catherine Elizabeth, Minnie Ellen and
Mary Alta, — all at home. Mr. J. is a Democrat, and he and his
wife are both members of the Christian Church.
David Jo/inso)), farmer, was born in Clark Co., Ind., March 26,
1825 ; in the fall of 1827 his jKircnts, Richard ^I. and Catherine
(nee Fonts), emigrated with him to Fulton Co., III. Near Canton,
June 17, 1849, David married Charlotte Walling, a native of Ohio
and daughter of Louis and Cynthia (Peirce) Walling. Their chil-
dren are: Cynthia Ellen, born March 8, 1851; Charles H., Nov.
5, 1855, died Jan 15, 1.S79; George Delmer, born Jan 30, 1859;
Sarah Annas, Feb. 3, 1862; and Luella, Nov. 27, 1868. Cynthia
E. married Joseph DeArmand and lives in Montgomery Co,, Kau.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 491
All the rest are living at home. Mr. J. is a Democrat, and lives
on sec. 10.
Isaac Johnson, deceased, was born in Washington Co., Pa., and
came to this county in 1.S37, and located at Middle Grove, near
Farraino'ton, where he lived o years and then moved to Buckheart,
where he died in Nov., 1873. Mrs. J. is still living on the old
homestead on sec. 16. Dr. Johnson's parents were John and
Rachel (Statts) Johnson, both natives of South Carolina. His
great-grand parents were from Scotland and Germany. He had a
family of 11 children : Isaiah B., Caroline S.,Sylvanns, Nathaniel H.,
\Vm. P., Marinda J., Berlin S., and Caleb B. Those not living are
John W., Mary E., and Indiann. Two of the sons, Berlin and
Sylvanus, served in the army during the Rebellion. Isaac Johnson
was originally a Jackson Democrat, but was for many years before
the war a Free-Soiler, up to his death a Republican. He was a phy-
sician and practiced during his life in this county. Before coming
here he served as Sheriff of Meigs Co., O.
Lemuel Johnson, farmer, son of the next mentioned, married Mar-
garet Wcller March 16, 1857, and has two children, — Richard M.,
born Dec. 1, 1857, and Douglas, Sept. 1, 1865. The home consists
of 90 acres, on sec. 34, Canton tp., and sec. 3, Buckheart tp., the
residence being in the latter tp. It is just one mile from the public
square in Canton. Democrat but rather independent.
Richard M. Johnson, deceased, was born in Randolph Co., N. C,
Aug. 8, 1797. Ilis parents, Josiah and Sarah (Wright) Johnson,
moved witli him to Indiana and died there. He married Catharine
Fonts in Clark Co., Ind,, who had also been born in Randolph Co.,
N. C. Her parents, David and Mary, were early settlers of Fulton
Co., and died here, aged 91 and 84 years respectively. Richard M.
and family emigrated to Fulton Co. in Nov., 1827; the following
March he bought a farm on sec. 32, Canton tp., and settled upon it,
where the widow still lives, aged about 78 years. He died Feb. 8,
1879. Their children born in Indiana were: Sarah, Nov. 21, 1820;
LGmuel, March 1, 1823; and David, INIarch 26, 1825. Those born
here were: Emsley, Dec. 22, 1829; Mary Ann, Sept. 7, 1831 (died
Dec. 3, 1872); Mai-tha, Feb. 22, 1833; Elisha and Elijah (twins),
March 20, 1836; and Julia Ann, May 28, 1840. All "live in this
Co. except Julia, the wife of Wm. Bocock, who lives in Woodford
Co., 111. Mr. and Mrs. J. were members of the Christian Church. The
widow is still able to do all her own work. In early times Mr. J.
acted as marslial, or minute man, to call the settlers together when
Indians threatened. The "fort" was the brick dwelling of Jacob
Ellis, on sec. 9, Buckheart tp., and was such at the time of Wester-
field's defeat.
Robert Johnson was born in Belmont Co., O., in 1807, and is the
son of John and Rachel (Statts) Johnson. ^Ir. R. came to this
county iNIarch 27, 1857, and located on sec. 16, Buckheart tp., and
built a house into which he moved. After living in it for 15 years
402 HISTORY OF 'FULTON COUNTY.
it was burned durino; the absence of the family. It was supposed
to have been robbed and then set on fire. Mr. J, had several hun-
dred dollars in money in the house at the time. He immediately
built his present residence. He married Mary Myers, daughter of
John Myers, in 1833. They brought 7 children to this conuty with
them: Susan M., Elizabeth M., Andrew M., Abram, Charlus S.,
Wm. A., and Robert S. Mrs. J. died Aug. 10, 1877. Two of the
boys served in the army during the late war: Abram and Charles.
James Hervey Kelley Mas born in Lewis Co., Ky., Oct. 20, 1809,
and is the son of Henrv Kellev of Augusta Co., Va. His trrand-
father was John Kellev, of the same State ; his father was a native
of Ireland. Henry Kellev.'s wife's maiden name was Catharine
Buchanan, and was born about the vear 1787. Thev were married
Dec. 30, 1801. James H. married Prudence Brown Dec. 13, 1836.
She was born at Thomaston, Me., Jan. 14, 1809. They had a family
of 4 children, 2 living: Samuel A. and Ann. The latter married
Wm. S. Hood and lives in this township. Mr. K. came to this
county in 1835 with his parents, and has lived at his present resi-
dence, sec. 28, for 41 years. His lirst wife, died Aug. 8, 1S7<), and
he has since married Susan Virginia Walker, who was born in 1826,
and is the daughter of AVm. and Xancv Walker.
John Henry Kelley, farmer, merchant, and proprietor of a saw-
mill; was born in ToUsborro, Lewis Co., Ky., June 3, 1819. His
father, Wm. Kelley, is a native of Kentucky, and is now living at
the age of 90 years. William's father Avas John Kelley, a native of
Ireland. He died in Kentucky aged nearly 100 years. John Kel-
ley's mother, Annie (Hannahs) Kelley, was a daughter of Hugh
Hannahs. John Kelley came to this county in 1850 and located
near Bryant. He married Harriet Putman. daughter of Harrison
Putman, in 1857, and has a familv of 2 children: Wm. H., born
Aug. 12, 1859, and Frank Ellsworth, Aug. 20, 1869. Mr. K. is at
present carrying on a farm uj)on Mhich he settled in 1870, on sec. 29,
of 360 acres, a saw-mill on sec. 33, and a general store at Bryant. His
mill has a capacity of 100,000 feet per month.
Samuel Adam<i Kelley was born on sec. 28, Buckheart township,
March 1, 1842 and is the son of James H. and Prudence (Brown)
Kelley. He was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Stevenson
Aug. 13, 1867. Mrs. K, is a daughter of John Stevenson, who was
born in Frederick Co., Md., Nov. 19, 1784, and was born in High-
land Co., O., Aug. 13, 1837. John Stevenson died in Putman town-
ship June 17, 1873. His wife, Catharine Black, was born Sept. 3,
1797, in Bucks Co., Pa. and died Feb. 2, 1874. Samuel A. Kelly
and wife have had three children : Jennie Adelia, born June 20,
'68; Laura ^fay. May 22, '72, and Francis Emily, Nov. 8, '77.
Thomas Jixper Kelley is a son of John H. Kellev, and was born on
see. 28, Buckheart township, June 20, 1843. He lives on the old
hom2Stead of his father consistiuijof 320 acres. He is now holding
his second term as Sjparvisor of the township, and has served in
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 493
ni'iny other offices. On tlic old homestead arc 30 or 40 mounds,
which were made by tlie Mound I5uihlcrs, Mr. K. was married to
Miss Annie Fonts, daugliter of" Du^au Fonts, Feb. 2.3, 1868, at the
residence of her mother on sec. 14. They had a family of two
children, ucitiier liviuii;. Charles Edgar died aged 3 years, in Nov.
1879; the other in infancy.
/. /. Kirkpatrick, merchant, was born in Brown Co., O., Nov. 15,
1815, but was brought up in the interior of Kentucky ; came to this
county Dec. 25, 1854, married the widow of John Riley, located in
Piitman township, and engaged in farming; in 18G5 he entered the
hardware business in Canton, as a member of the firm of C. Haines
& Co. ; in 1867 he went to Bryant and in company with his brother
conducted a general merchandise store lor about five years, and then
established a drug store, and one year ago opened a store of boots,
shoes, tinware and notions, — a nephew attending the drug-store, and
his only son, Archie Inskeep. Member of the Christian Church.
Republican.
Jacob Lin</cnfclfcr, deceased, was born in the town of Greenfield,
Bedford Co., Pa., Oct. 12, 1806. His father's name was also Jacob,
a native of the same county. The great-great grandfather of the
subject of this sketch came from Germany in the early part of the
last century and his son was born in the Keystone State and served
undc>r WasJiington in the Revolution. Our sul)ject came to Fulton
county in the fall of 1847, bringing his wife and a family of 8 chil-
dren in the spring of the following year. The names of the children
are Margaret, Matthias, Josiah, INloscs, Chris-tina, Aaron, John and
David, wiio were all born in Penn., and of the number Margaret,
John and David are now living. Four children were born to them
after they came to this county : Frederick, Jacob, Alexander and
Sarah C. ; Jacob Lingenfelter located on sec. 13 Buckheart town-
ship where he bought a firm of 80 acres. He deserves more than a
passing notice in tlie pages of local history, for commencing with
limited means, by honesty, frugality and industry he accumulated a
large i>roperty, leaving to his family 700 or 800 acres of land. He
died Sept. 14, 1876. His widow and 4 of the younger children now
live at the old homestead. He was a Re|)ul)lican in ])olitics and 3
of his sons served in the late war. Josiah served 3 years in 103d
111. Inf, and was wounded at Jonesboro, (Ja. ; went through with
Shei'man to the sea; was in 21 engagements. He now lives in
Chamj)aign Co. His children are Lydia C, Frederick E., and Sarah
E.
Aaron enlisted in 1861 in the 55th 111. liif, and served 4 years,
participated in 32 engagements, and was wounded twice. In the
fights around Atlanta July 22, 18()4, a finger was shot oH'. He also
went with Gen. Sherman through Georgia and the Carolinas, and
was shot through the shoulder at the Jiattle of Bentonville, N. C.
This was alxuit the last light of the war. He now resides with his
family in Banner tp. While on Sherman's march he with a party
494 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
went out foraging. Some of the men of rebel Gen. AViiecler's
cavalry tooU after the party and separated Aaron from his compan-
ions and took him prisoner, but before they had delivered him up
and while parlying with tiiem, as he was standino- beside his liorse
one of them shot at him. The ball jiassed through his clothes, cut-
ting his watcii chain so that his watch dropped into his boots. At
that critical moment some of the Union troops came up, when Mr.
L. saw his chance for escape and told the rebels they might go to
, picked up his gun and began firing. He calls that about the
tightest place he was ever in.
John enlisted Feb. 22, 1864, in 103d 111. Inf., was taken sick
almost immediatelv thereafter Avith ervsipelas, and died in hospital
at SpringfieUl, March 22, 18G4.
The wife of Jacob Lingenfelter was Sarah Clear, also a native of
Bedford Co., Pa., and a daughter of Frederick Clear, whose father
came from Germany.
Moses Lingenfelter was born in 1857, and now lives on part of
the old homestead. He married Sarah E., daughter of Minard
Vandyke, of Liverpool tp. Wm. E., Josiah E., Jacob F., and
Sarah Ann are their children.
Jonah Lingenfelter married Margaret Shellenberger Sept. 10,
1874. She was a daughter of Wm. Shellenberger, who enlisted in
Co. D, 55th 111. Inf , and was killed at the battle of Shiloh, April
6, 1862.
Jacob L. married ^lary Ann Kendall, daughter of Thomas Ken-
dall, of Banner, Feb. 18, 1877. Nora Etta is the name of their
little girl.
Peter Loucls, a native of New York and of Mohawk Dutch
descent, came to this county in Sept., 1855, and located on the
AVoodside place at Cuba, and engaged in railroad work as conductor,
baggage-master and contractor. About 1834 he was united in mar-
riage with Harriet Hews at Albany, X. Y., who was a native of
Saratoga, X. Y. They have a family of five children, — Eosetta
Ann, Eliza Ellen, Addie Jane, Charley and Parmelia Isabel, all
living at home with parents. He is a Democrat, and himself and
wife are members of the I'^nited Brethren Church.
John Lucky was born in Hartford Co., Md., in 1808. His parents
were AVm. and Eebecca (Leggett) Lucky. He came to Illinois in
1838, and located on sec. 17, this tp. There was a small log-cabin
on the place into which he moved his fiunily. The place was not
otherwise impnivcd. He bought a shot-gun and a bag of shot,
and says he never lived and enjoyed himself better in his life. He
lived princi|)ally on game, corn bread and j)ork. He ground his
corn in " Armstrong's Mill," which consisted of a piece of tin
punched full of holes and bont over a board, and used as a grater.
He married Elizabeth ^IcCreary in April 25, 1833.
Jacob A. Maynard, farmer, sec. 14; was born in Feb., 1852, upon
the farm where he now resides. He was married to Anna L.
HISTORY OF FUI.TOX COUNTY. 495
Brokrtw, daughter of Honry Brokaw, doccased. Her mother is now
livino; with herself and husband. They have 2 chihh'en, — Fred B.
and Jacob A., jr. Jeifry Amherst Maynard, Jacob's father, is a
native of PhiHij)ston, Mass., and was born March 7, 1809, and died
at his home 3 miles south of Canton in Feb., 181)4. He was num-
bered among the pioneers of this county, having come here in 1830,
and located on sec. 1, Bnckheart tp., which he improved; but in
1835, the time of the great storm, his log cabin, fences, etc., were
demolished, and Mrs. M. badly injured, and a Mrs. G. Gould, who
was visiting at Mr. M.'s, was fatallv injured and died the next morn-
ing. The storm occurred at 10 o'clock, p. M. Mr. M. then moved
to where he died. In 1832 he married Rebecca Fox, a native of
Richmond, Wayne Co., Ind. She bore him 8 children : Louis C,
Maria Ellen, deceased, Wm. D., Lucy N., Edward, Perry A., de-
ceased, Jacob A., and Chas. C. Mr. ^L taught school in Buckheart
tp. in an early day. He was a strong temperance advocate and was
among the first to abolish liquor from the harvest field.
J. II. McCreary was born in Buckheart tp. in INIarch, 1839; mar-
ried Mary J. Hews, daughter of Wm. P.; has 4 children, — Chas.
Sumner, Jennie L., ^Nlattie and Xicholas, — all at home. His father
was Nicholas McCreary, a native of Baltimore, ^Id., who came to
this county about 1838, and settled on sec. 10; afterwards moved
to Putman tp. where he now lives. He married Frances A. Hughes
in Baltimore, who died in 1846. Mr. J. H. McC. has plowed up
many Indian relics in the vicinity of an old Indian fort near his
house.
John S. Miller, born in 1844, in Augusta Co., Va., came with his
parents to this cninty in 184S; in 1862 enlisted in the 4Gth 111. Inf.
at Cuba, served in Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama and Georgia,
was in five battles, and wounded in the hand by a piece of shell at
tha battle of Livenworth Junction, Kv. ; was wounded severely in
the right hip at the battle of Franklin, Tenn., by a spent musket
l)all, from which he still suffers; was discharged in May, 1865;
married Elizabeth J. Coffee, a native of Jackson Co., Ala., July 1,
1866; now has two children, — Mattie J., born in 1872, and Sylvie,
born in 1875. Residence, sec. 5, Buckheart tp. Republican.
Bcvcrli/ G. Milner, deceased, was born and reared near Leesburgh,
Highland Co., O. In 1856 he came to this county, then at the age
of 22 years. His ])arents were John and Susan ( Kinzer) ^lilner,
both natives of Virginia. Mr. M. through life followed farming.
He was a hard student and devouted much time to the sciences, and
to Greek, Latin, Theology, etc. He was married in Lewistown,
this county, Feb. 4, 1856, to Elizabeth M., daughter of Wm. Denny.
He left a family of 7 children, — Mary, John W., Sarah R., Dora E.,
David W., Ira Eugene and W. Delmer, all of whom are living at
the homestead with Mrs. M. They lost 4 children, 3 in infancy and
Beverly G., who died June 12, 1879, at the age of 14. Mr. M.
first settled in Liverpool tp., but in 1872 bought a farm on see. 12;
496 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Biickheart, where he resided with his familv until his death which
occurred Sunday August 3, 1879. He left his familv in comfortable
circumstances.
Richard L. Moran, sen,, Mas born in St. Mary's county, Md., of
French ancestry; was in the war of 1812; married Ann llayden, a
native of the same place, who died in Maryland. Mr, M. subse-
quently came to Independence, Putman tp., in this county, brino:ing
with him 5 children, — Mariiarct, Wm. H. (who died in 1877),
Richard L., jun., Elizabeth and Martha. ^Margaret is the wife of
Maj. Herring-; Eliz:djcth is the wife of Xelsou iJagley, Dakota;
Martha is tiie wife of Nicholas McCreary, at Civer, Putmau tp.,
and Richard L.'s sketch is next given.
Richard Lt/on Mora )i, ']nn., son of preceding, was born in Mary-
land, married at Cuba, this county, in 184.3, to Sybil Cummiugs.
daughter of Israel W. Cummiugs and Susannah (Carrh) Cunimings,
Mr. C. was a native of Dunstable, Mass., and Mrs C of Greenoch,
Scotland, both now deceased. INIr. Moran has had 9 children,
namely, Oliver C, born March 26, 1845, and died May 26, 1863;
Edmund P., born Dec. 5, 1847; Albert, born Oct. 11, 1850, or '51,
killed by lightning wiiile sitting at a window Aug. 9, 1863; Emily
J., born July 14, 1853; Ann, born June 9, 1855 ; Richard Lyon,
born Aug. 9, 1857; Joseph H., born Jan. 1, 1862; Ella, born -lulv
22, 1864; and Harry, Sapt. 29, 1869.
Mr. M. and wife settled on the place where they now reside, (N.
W. ^ of sec. 19) in the fall of 1844, in the deep woods, and put on
the place all the improvements which have been made ; their pres-
ent commodioiisstone house was built in 1859; farm consists of 225
acres, untlerlaid by veins of coal. The family still have the old-
fashioned wooden mortar in which they made hominy in early days,
— better hominy than we have nowadays. Mr. M. is a Republican
in politics.
Oliver Cromwell ^Moran, the eldest son, enlisted in Co. G., 103d
111. Inf., in Aug., 1862, for 3 )'ears ; after abt)Ut 9 months he was
taken sick while on a forced march, and died in the hospital at La
Grange, Tenn., May 26, 1863.
Horatio Clark Xc/sn)i, is a native of Raltimore, Md. and was born
March 2, 1819. He first came to this county in 1838; soon went
to Lexington, Ky., and began the study of law wi\h ^ladison C.
Johnson, and graduated in the Law Dcpartmeht of the University
of Kentucky in 1843. He graduated from St. Mary's College, Bal-
timore, in 183rS, taking the degrees of A. R. and A.M. Pie was ad-
mitted to the liar in Kentucky, in 1843; married at Lexington in
'44 to Eliza Jones, also a native of Baltimore, and moved to Buck-
heart tp., locating on the southeast quarter of sec. 2. He has finely
improved and added to it, and now devotes his attention to raising
blooilcd stock. On coming to this State he was admitted to the
Bar, but has never practiced here. His wife has borne him 7 chil-
dren, 4 of whom are living at home, 3 are married and living away
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 497
from home : The names of the oliildren are Kate, Maud, Ernest,
Horatio, ^laria, Reginald and Eliza. i\Ir. X. has always been a
Whig and Republican. He imbibed his political views from Hen-
ry Clay, being- personally acquainted with him. In 1861 he enlisted
in 7th 111. Cav., Co. K, which was raised principally through his
exertion. He was elected Captain, and the Major being killed in
battle he was elected to fill the vacancy. jNIajor N. Avas taken pris-
oner at Coffeeville. It was during the night and by mistake he rode
in the midst of the enemy, but in less than 5 minutes a body of
Union troops came riding up, when his captor's attention was drawn
from him an instant and he dusted away.
Win. 0' Brian was born in the })arish of Bally William, county of
Tiperary, Ireland, April 9, 1837; parents were John and Ann (Ry-
an), the latter a daughter of James Ryan. The father died in Ire-
land, and the mother, with 7 children, started for America in 1846;
two of the childi'en died on the voyage; they landed in Quebec,
then settled in Jjurlington, Vt., where the old lady still lives. Wm.
first came to Fulton Co. in 1855. settling at Table Grove, and fol-
lowed blacksmithing for 11 vears. In 1864 he bought a farm of 80
acres on sec. 13, Buckhcart tj). and since has added 160 acres. He
was married to Margaret Campl)ell at Canton, March 10, 1857, by
Rev. Father Pitman. She was a native of Ireland, and daughter of
Patrick Cam])bell. They have had 5 children, 4 of whom are liv-
ing: Wm. John, born Aug. 24, 1859; Mary Ann, Feb. 13, 1861 ;
Nancy Ellen, July 13, 1862; Catherine Jane, April 6, 1865 The
deceased was also Wm. John, born Aug. 28, 1858, and died Aug. 31,
1859.
John TF. O^B riant, farmer, son of next mentioned, Avas born in
1848, married Didami, daughter of SjxMicor Mangram, now living
near Table Grove, this Co.; has one chikl, Cora Lee; lives on part
of the old homestead. Republican.
Lemuel O'Briunt, farmer, Avas born in Ross Co., O , July 4, 1812 ;
his parents Avere Joscjih and Sarah (Barker) O'B., natives of Fau-
quier Co., Va. ; they emigrated to the vicinity of Ft. Clark (uoav
Peoria) in 1824, Avhere the father died. Lemuel came and settled
on S. W. i of sec. 30, Buckheart tp., in 1834, Avhere he built and ran
a saAv-mill for 10 years, in partnership with David Haacke ; now
OAvns and occupies the N. h of that section as farmer; mai-ricd Mary
Ann Oviatt, a native of New York, in 1835, in Buckhcart tp. ; her
parents, Elisha and Abagail, were early settlers, and of Dutch and
Scotch descent. (Elisha Oviatt's father Avas a cousin of Ethan Allen,
and carried, Avith a team, tlic party who took Ft. Ticondcroga.) Mr.
O'Briant has had 7 children, — Abagail, Laviiui, Elisha, .John W.,
Lucinda, Sarah E., and Eunice, — all living in this county, except
Eunice, who died at the age of 5 years. Methodist, Republican.
James Prifchard, steward of the county-farm, is a son of Jordan
Pritchard, spoken of in sketch of Liver[)ool tp. He Avas married
to Sarah Elizabeth Hagans in LeAvistowu tp. in 1854. She Avas
498 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
born in Arkansas in 1840, and is the daughter of Wni. L. Hagans,
■who came to the conntv in 1852. Thev have hntl a familv of" 8
children: Mary E., Win. B., died in 18(51, R..l)ert J., Henrv C,
James K., Perry H, Willard S. and Guy I. Mary married Butler
Fast and lives in Banner t]^. James P. has l)een Assessor of" Liver-
pool tp. and held other offices in that and Waterford townships.
He is superintendent of the county-farm, and tells us that the in-
mates have averaged about 48 for the past decade, the time he has
been its steward. These are about equally divided between the
sexes. There are 8 who have been here for 15 years, and one old
lady for 26 years. Nine of the present inmates are hopelessly in-
sane, 4 males and 5 females, and 29 are mo.stly feeble-minded.
George Rilea, farmer, sec. 24. Mr. R. enlisted at Canton in
August, 1861, in the 55th 111. Inf.; on arriving at Chicago was
transferred to the c9t'.i, known as "Yates' Phalanx." He served
with this regiment in Co. C, through the late war and was in 17
battles and charges and numercuis skirmishes. He was wounded at
Petersburg, Pa. He was one of the assaulting party in the last and
successful charge upon the enemy's works. They had overcome
and taken the outer forts and Mr. R. was wounded in a charge ou
the inner fort by a musket ball in his right arm, the muzzle of the
gun not being over two feet from him when it was discharged at
him. His arm was so shattered that it was found -necessary to am-
putate it. He was mustered out June 17, 1865. Mr. R. was born
in Brown Co., O., and is the son of James Rilea, who came to this
countv in 1841. George married Elizabeth Mclntvre Oct. 20,
1867, at Bryant. They have a family of 4 children: Henry
Robert, ^s'ancy Catharine and Malinda Ellen, twins, and Minnie
Ann.
Dr. James JRilea is a native of Clermont Co., O., where he was
born Feb. 4, 1799. His father was William and his grandfather
James Rilea. The latter was a native of" Scotland, and came to the
U. S. before the Revolution. James Rilea came to this county in
1841 and located on sec. 25, this tp. Dr. R., although not a regularly
educated physician, in an early day paid considerable attention to
the treatment of the sick around him, and being very successful in
the cure, had an extensive practice among the settlers. He was well
and f"av(»rably known. James Riloa was married Feb. 4, 1823, in
Highland Co., ().. to Catharine C. Ewing, daughter of Adam H.
Ewino;. She was a member of the M. E. Church for 50 vears, but
now belongs to the I'nited Brethren Church. They have had 12
children, all born in Ohio except the youngest, who was burn in this
county. They are Joshua 1)., John E., Adam H., Wm. E.,
Thomas E., Henry S., Arminda, George, Nancy, Rebecca and
Sarali E. The fourth son died in infancy. Four of the boys served
in the late war.
Onslow Gaines Ixoberts was born in Joshua tp., this county, Feb.
8, 1839; his parents were John and Anna Roberts, of Kentucky,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 499
who came to this county in A])ril, l<S3o, locatintj in Hickory town-
ship. He (lied Oct., 1<S.']9. His chihh-en were Martha, John J.,
Joseph T., James W., Elizabeth and Onslow Gaines, the last the
only one living in this county. The latter married Anna F. Pluni-
mel, dauii'hter of Win., at Bryant, Feb. 26, ISO-'), slic having been
born Feb. l], 1<S4.'>. Tliev have 5 children: Charlie C, born -Ian.
3, 1864; \Vm. M., May 6, 1865; Emma L., Sept. 12, 1868; Dela-
no G., April 15, 1870; Frank B., April 14, 1872. Mr. R. is a
Democrat, and he and his wife are members of the Christian
Church. Mrs. John Roberts married a second time, a Mr. Wilson,
who has since died, and she is now living with her sou Onslow G.
John C. Rodcnbaugh was born in Hunterdon Co., N. J., in 1820,
and came to this county in 1853. He located in Canton and worked
at the trade of shoemaking in that place and Fairview for 8 years,
since which time he has been engaged in farming. He married
Letty N. Apgar in New Jersey, who bore him 2 children, — Mary
Ann and Sarah Elizabeth. The former married Forbes Wood, and
the latter Henry R. Suydam, who died in the army during the Re-
bellion. He was a member of Co. D, 103d Inf , and died at St.
Louis, Dec. 31, 1863, while on his way home. Calvin W., one of
his sons, lives with his grandfather Rodcnbaugh, and the other,
Henry F., clerks in R. W. Dewey's store. Canton. Sarah Elizabeth
is now the wife of Nathan INIcssler, of Canton. l)oth INIr. and Mrs.
R. are memljcrs of the Presbyterian Church. Mr. R. takes great
interest in Sunday-school work.
Henry C. Shryoch, farnuu-, sec. 22, is the son of Milton Shryock.
He was united in marriage at Bushnell, Til., with Miss Mary E.
M^ifer, Dec. 29, 1875. She is a native of Marietta, Fulton Co.,
and a daughter of John J. and Sarah (Ward) ^\'afer; the former a
native of Canada and the latter of Illinois. They have only one
child, Cora, born April 29, 1877. Politically, Mr. S. is a Republi-
can.
Junu'H P. Shryock, son of Milton Shryot-k, one of the leading
farmers of this county. He was married to Sarah W. Weller, Jan.
2, 18(52, in Canton t|). She is a daughter of Win. and Elizabeth
(Long) Weller, both natives of Warren Co., N. J. They came to
this (M>unty in Jan., 1854. Mrs. S. was born in that State, Oct. 18,
1841. They have a family of 3 children: Ida jNIay, born Dec. 9,
1864; Wm. M., May 16, 1866, and Fidessia, Oct. 17, 1874. Mr.
S. has been Supervisor, and has been School Director for 9 years.
The Shryock Cha]x4 was built at an expense of al)out $2,300. Mr.
Milton Siirvock contributed to this .Si, 700, and the rest, (except
about §100), was made up by the Shryock family.
John. C. Shryock. Of the numerous family of Shryocks living in
this townsliip is our "subject, John C. Shryock. He is a son of
INlilton Shryock. He has resided on sec. 22 since 1875, where he
has since erected a fine two-story frame house, large barn, etc. He
was married to Emily Jane Hackett, a native of this countj, and a
500 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
daughtor of Clayton S. Hackett, a native of Delaware. His wife
was Mar<raret ^[ercer, now deceased. The wedding occurred at
Milton Shrvock's residence, March IG, 187;>. Charles, born June
20, 1877, is their onlv child. Both ^Ir. and Mrs. S. are members
of the M. E. Church.*
Milton S/iryock, Postmaster and merchant, St. David, was born
near Lexington, Ky., May 17, 1812. His father. Christian Shryock
served in the war of 1812 and died while in the service. Christian
Shryock's father was Frederick Shryock, native of Maryland near
Frederickstown, Avhich it is supposed received its name from hira.
His mother's maiden name was Rebecca Graham. Milton came to
this county in 1833; was married to Rebecca Carver, March 27,
1834. She was a daughter of P. M. Carver and was born Feb. 6,
1815. Mr. S. carried on blacksmithing in Canton for 2 vcars, and
in 1836 moved to sec. 21, Bnckhcart tp. There was a small log
cabin on this 200 acres and 2 or 3 acres cleared, the rest heavy tim-
ber. Of this, 170 acres is now cleared and finely improved. He
has given his boys 480 acres, adjoining the homestead that now con-
sists of 440 acres of land, and to his girls 240 acres. ]\li]ton
Shryock and wife have had a family of 8 children, 6 of whom are
living: Wm. W. was born Jan. 18, 1835 ; James P., Aug. 18, 1838 ;
Sarah C, Nov. 29, 1840; John C, Jan. 26, '44; Mary Jane, April
15, '48; Henry Clay, Dec, 1, 1850 Tho.se not living are Samuel
Allen, born Oct. 26, '4(j, died March 15, '47: Frances Eldora, Dec.
12, '54, died Sept. 20, '72. James P. married Sarah Weller ; John
C. married P^mma Hackett ; Henry C. married Mary E. Wafer ;
S:irah married Samuel C. AVasson and resides on sec. 12, this tp. ;
Mary married (xeo. T. Baylor and lives at Cuba ; Wm. A^^ married
Margaret Slack and lives in Jackson Co., Mo.
Johnson Smith was born in Clermont Co., O., in 1811. His
parents were Wm. and Ivucretia (Johnson) Smith, born in Mon-
mouth Co., X. J. They arc of English and Trisji descent. Both
grandparetits, Benjamin Smith and ^^ illiam Johnson were sol-
diers under Wasliington. Mr. S. married Rebecca Washburn,
a native of Ohio and daughter of Jolin and Eleanor (Wood)
Washburn. They brought 2 children to this county with them:
John M. and Hannah. Those born here are Samantha, Aurelia,
William, JosejJi and Adelaide, all of whom are living. Mr. S.
came from Ohio with a 4-horse wagon and was 13 days on the trip.
He bought a farm on the southwest quarter of sec. 32, Buckheart
townshij), and first lived in a log caliin. This quarter of land Mas
covered with timber when he settled upon it but is now under cul-
tivation. Mr. and Mrs. S. are both members of the M. E. Church.
The former has been a member for 50 years.
John IF. Snider, farmer, was born near P'lizabethtown,'' Carter Co.,
East Tenn., July 12, 18'>7. His parents were Isaac and Matilda
(Wilson) Snider, who came and settled on sec. 35, this township, in
1860, where they resided 4 years. They now live at Gardiner,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 501
Grundy Co., 111. John II. nuirried Jemima Bauman, daiip^htcr of
Peter B., Aug. 23, 1800, and they have now 8 children, all living
at home, namely, Mary E., born INIay 9, 18(31 ; -lohn \\Mllard, Jan.
5, 1863; Leonard R.,'Dec. 18, 1864; ]Minerva, Jan. 7, 1866; Je.'^se
C, Jan. 20, 1870 ; Charley, July 10, 1872 ; Cora Lee, Feb. 10, 1875 ;
and Orie Dero, April 23, 1877. They live at the old homestead
(sec. 35), where all the improvements were made by John H. He
is a Methodist and a Republican.
Solomon B. Sjiitirr, farmer, was born in Carter Co., East Tcnn.. in
1812; settled on sec. 31, this township, in 1853; has lived on his
present farm (S. E. j sec 33) for 22 years ; was Justice of the
Peace in Peoria one term ; Republican in politics. His parents
were William Snider and Elizabeth (Bealor) Snider, both of
German parentage. Mr. S. married Deborah Wilcoxen, daughter of
Samuel W., in Carter Co., E. Tenn., in 1833, near Roan Mountain.
Brought to this county 3 children, — Martha Ellen, Mary Elizabeth
and Eliza Caroline. The first married John C. Lawrence, the
second H. A. Whitnah and the third James O'Brien, and died April,
1875. Mrs. Snider died May 10, 1872.
JLifihcw Tafum, deceased, born Feb. 18, 1789, in Rowan Co.,
N. C, and died Sept. 19, 1868, in this township. He emigrated
first to Indiana, in 1825 to Fulton C<>. ; spent two or three years at
the Galena lead mines; married Mrs. Lydia Eggers, a native of
Laurens Co., S. C, Aug. 1, 1830, in Canton township, this county;
Mrs T. died Oct. 2, 1872 ; her maiden name was Dollor, and she
was born in 1805; her father, AVni. D., was a native of Wales, and
her mother Ruth (Beasley) D., of Virginia. ]Mr. D. servrd under
^\ashington in the Revolution for 7 yeai's ; he died in this town-
ship Sept. 6, 1838. The children of Mr. and Mrs, Tatum are : Geo.
W. born March 25, 1832, died in 1864; John G., born Dec. 13,
1837; Amy, born Mar<-h 29, 1841 ; and Sarah Jane, Oct. 13, 1847,
— the last three living in this county. J. G. owns and occui)ies the
old hcnnestead on N. E. j of sec. 7. Both parents were regular
Ba]>tist, and the father was a Democrat.
WiUifim P. Tamer. The Turners are of English origin, but as
far back as mc are able to trace them in America it is in Xew
Market, Frederick Co., Md., to about the year 1679. There we
find William Turner, great-grandfather of the subject of this
sketch. His grandfather was Wm. P. Turner, who moved to North
Carolina and married Action Howard. Here their son. Starling
Turner, was born, who was the father of Wm. P. He moved to
Kentucky and married Sophia Carver in ]'\'b., 1801. They
came to Illinois with a family of 11 children in 1831, and the fol-
lowing year located on sec. 13, Buckheart tj). Their children were
Matilda, Abigail and Jesse, both deceased, Lydia, Wm. P., Sarah,
James, Starling, jr., Jemima, ^lary, Margaret, Benjamin and
Sophia. Matilda married Wm. Malsby ; Lydia, Reuben Peter, and
Sarah Rev. John Tarleton Fleming. Wm. P. married Eliza Ann
502 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
MePheeters, and resides on sec. 12, this townsliip. James married
Sarah A. Carver. Jemima married Ezckiel Rdcklictld, wlio died,
and then married Mr. Piekerin^;. Marv married Roily Rogers and
died in Banner tp. Margaret married Rev. Moses Jared, both de-
ceased. Benjamin died at the age of 18. Sophia married John
Pickering.
Conieliii.s Washburn lived in Ohio dnrins: the earlv Indian wars,
and when Kentucky was in reality the "dark and Idoody ground."
He was an original Indian lighter and acted the part of" a scout.
While carrying words of warning to a fort near Pittsburg and being
alone, was attacked by the Indians just after sMimming a river.
His horse was killed, yet he made his escape. The Indians having
committed so many de]iredations. he, with 5 others, followed them
and had a battle near AVilliamsburg, O., in Avhich they defeated the
Indians, at the loss of one man and one wounded. Ten years after-
wards he returned to this battle-field and found a gun left by one
of the party. It \v;i> leaning against a tree in the same position it
had been left. Mr, W. was a genuine trapper and hunter, devoting
his entire time to those pursuits. About 40 years ago he engaged
with a fur company to go beyond the Rocky ^lountains, since
which time he has never been heard from, and it is supposed that'
he has been killed by the Indians.
Dudley O. Wvdcn, physician, was born in Belpre tp., Washing-
ton Co., O., Jan. 1, 1845; his parents were O. P. and Eliza A.
(Null) Wedge, natives of the same county, who emigrated to
Henry Co., 111., in 1854, where they now reside. The doctor was
educated at the Galva (111.) high school, commenced medical studies
with Dr. Geo. H. Scott at Kewanee, 111., and graduated at the Jef-
ferson Medical College, Philadelphia, in 1874, as a "regular"
physician; located at Bryant in 1807, where he is still practicing
medicine. He marric^l Florenci^ \j. Herriot. of Bryant, and Charles
A., Kthelyn H. and Maury E. are their children.
John H. Wcller, son of Wm. Weller, is a cirpenter by trade, but
is engaged in farming, r He was married to Martha J. Clark, Sept.
20, ]857, who has borne him 4 children, — M'illiam Carv, born Sept.
10, 1858; Elmer, April 15. 18(jl ; Lillv, Oct. 25, 18«i3, and Ella,
July 0, 186(3.
M'il/iani Weller, deceased, Avas born in Warren Co., X. J., in
1810. His father was also named William. Mr. W. came to this
county in 1854, and located ou a fai-m in Canton tj). He died Sept.
16, 1863. His wife, Elizal>eth I^ouir, was born ]\Iarch 8, 1811.
Thev were married Julv 14, 1832. ^Mrs. W. died Mav 19, 1879.
Thev had a familv of !» children : J. K., born Julv 6, '33; Marv
M.,Fel). 19, '35; Caroline, Mav 29, '39 ; Sarah. Oct.' 18, '41 ; Char-
lotte A., March 16, '43; Johile", Aug. 4, '45; Hiram L., May 7,'47 ;
Wm. H., June 5, '49 ; Emeline, June 13, '52, and Lewis A. R.,
April 7, '56, — all of whom are living except Caroline, who died
Feb. 12, 1871. She was the wife of Samuel Shriuer who was kill-
ed bv accident in 1872.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 503
Tlieodore 0. Whitenack was born in Canton, 111., in 1855. His
parents were Peter and Sarah S. ( Ehvood) Whitenack, both natives
of Xew York. I'he subjeet of this sketch married J^avina, young-
est daughter of William and Nancy j\I. Hummel, at Bryant, A})ril
2,1876; have one child, Grace, who was born March 21,1878.
Mr. W. was elected Police Magistrate in April, 1870, and is a Repub-
lican. He is also engaged in the store of J. H. Kelly.
Joseph C. W/iifna/i, farmer, sou of A. J. Whitnah, of Canton, was
born Feb. 16, 1845, at the old homestead in l^uekhearttp. (sees. 32 and
33); married Sarah A. Jones, daughter of S])akeman Jones, Jan.
20, 18()6, in Lewistown tji. They have 5 chihlren: Freddie and
Dollie, born February 25, 1807; Cordie T., April 'J, 1871; Harry,
October 20, 1874; and Fenton, August 15, 1876. In politics Mr.
W. is a Democrat.
Hiram A. W/iifiuih, farmer, son of A. J. AA'hitnah, was born in
Buckheart tp. in 1838, married Mary E. Snyder in 1S51), the same
year he purchased the S. W. I of sec. 34, this tp. He has cleared
up 130 acres, fenced it, put it in good condition, erected good build-
ings, etc.; dwelling 1| stories, 16 by -"U ft., with L 24 by 16, and
porch, good cellar, etc. They have 2 children, — Chester Leon and
Pearl Arzena. Mrs. W. is a member of the Christian Church, and
Mr. \y. is Democratic in politics, though he has never run for any
office.
Saninel Wifcoxcn, farmer, son of next mentioned, was born Oeto-
l)er 12, 1.S13, in Ash or Wilks Co., X. C, and January 6, 1841,
married Ijueinda Carver, a native of Estill Co., Ky., in J5uckheart
tp. Their children are: Ellen, burn December 31, 1842, married
Elijah Johnson and lives just south of Canton; Anna, born Feb-
ruary 2, 1.S51, married Frank Boner, lived on sec. 11, Buckheart
tp., and died May <S, 1871), leaving two children, Fred and Charles;
and George, born August 15, 1853. Mr. W. has 992 acres in all.
His fine residence was built in IX(')i). He has used very little liquor,
tobacco not at all, and is a Pepubliean.
Squire Wi/co.ren, deceased, married Sarah Tatuni in North Caro-
lina, moved to Estill county, Ky., about 1815, and in 1828 to the
old Nathaniel Vittuni place near Canton ; lived 7 years on sec. 2,
Liverpool tp., and then made their permanent home on sec. 5, Buck-
heart tp. The j-section last oceu])i<'(l was entered for him by his
son Samuel, who had to go to Missouri to get good money, "wild-
eat" money prevailing here. Squire W.was a volunteer in the war
of 1812, Captain of militia in North Carolina, was a Jackson Dem-
ocrat, and an old-fashioned Baptist ])reacher. Was a cousin to
Daniel Boone. He died in 1837, and his widow in 18(55, at the age
of 83. Their children were 9 in nund)er, — Elizabeth, Martha,
Sarah, Anna, Jordan, Amy, Samuel, James and Ellen.
John B Wi/son, farmer, sec. 2, is a native of Cumberland Co., Pa.,
where he was born in 1828. His parents were John and Margaret
(MeLaiu) Wilson, the former a native of Ireland, the latter of the
31
504 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Keystone State. His father canu' to Illinois in abont 1834 or '35,
and (lied before John B. came. He came to Scott Co., 111., in 1841,
and to this county in '42, and located near Kllisville, where he was
married Oct. 3, 1844, to Adeline Athearn, a daughter of one of the
old settlers of Deerfield tp. Mr. W. was engaged in cooperage and
farming until 1846, when he moved to his present location one mile
south of Canton, where he has a fine farm. He has been a member
of the Baptist Church at Canton for 25 years, and Deacon for 24
years. His wife has borne him 9 children, 8 of whom are living:
Mary E. married James Tallman and lives in Ohio ; AVm. H. lives
in Canton tp. Miranda E. and Benjamin live in Kokomo, Ind. ;
Sarah J., Addie G., Elmer T. and John M. live with their parents;
Frank was killed by accident at the age of 14. Esther Mary Wil-
son, a sister of J. B., came to this county in 1835 and married Orrin
Turner and died Feb. 9, 1846, leaving 2 children, Mary and John,
both of whom were raised by Mr. W.
Forbes B. Wood, son of the late Thomas Wood, lives on sec. 12,
and is engaged in agriculture. He married ]\Iary Ann Rodenbaugh,
a native of New Jersey, in 1869. They have a family of 3 children,
— Bertha L., Ida B., and Otis R. Mr. W. has one of the finest im-
proved farms in the county.
Thomas Wood was born in Harrison Co., Ya., Dec. 18, 1805. He
married Rachel Flowers, of the same county, Aug. 21, 1825. She
was a daughter of Geo. Flowers, and he a son of Lambert Flowers,
who came from Ireland at the age of 12 years. Thomas Wood's
father was Benjamin, a son of John Wood, Avho came from England.
Thomas Wood and wife came to this county in the s])ring before the
big snow (1830). They came with a family of 2 children, Lavina and
Angelina: the others were born here, — Aurelia, George S., Forbes,
Rohanna, Laura Y., Casper, Ellison G. and Carroll D. Benjamin
enlisted in Co. E, 103d Inf., and after serving in the army for about
a vear died near Yicksburjr, Julv 9. 18(53. Thomas Wood died in
Feb., 1870. Mrs. W. lives at the old homestead, sec. 11. Thomas
Wood's family was about the only one that was not routed at the
Westerfield's defeat, spoken of elsewhere in this volume. A day or
two after that event a number of persons were seen approaching the
house. They were su])poscd to be Indians and caused consterna-
tion among the family. The women and children were hurriedly
sent to the upper part of the cabin, while the men remained below.
They knocked a part of a log out of a corner of the house, to shoot
through at the approaching enemy. Mr. Wood, Mr. Flowers, his
wife's father and two other men went out to meet them as they came
up. The supposed Indians proved to be several fiimilies of settlers
who were stampeded by the great fright of the supj)osed Indian
slausrhter jr<^in<j: on north of Canton. Thev were on their wav to
Canton. Mr. Wood and family went with them to Canton, where
they remained two hours and returned home.
Thomas Woodcocfc was born near Belviar Castle, Town of
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 505
Strathorn, Leicestershire, Eno;., Jan 4, 1822. His parents were
Thomas and Elizabeth (ITornbuekle) AVoodeook, of the same place.
Our subject first came to the United States in 1845 and located in
Ross Co., O., and came to this county in 1849, locating in Canton.
He was married to Elizabeth Oglesby, who was born in Enoland in
1834, and is a dauo-htcr of Win. and Elizabeth (Green) Oolesby.
They were married Aug-. ID, 18(J0, at D. W. Vittum's, in Canton.
They have 7 children,— Thomas, born Dec. 13. '(31 ; Edward, Oct. 3,
'63 ; Emma Jane, Oct. 1, '(]'); Isaac, March 31, '67; Sarah Ann,
April 15, '69; Richard, Aug. 28, 71, and Charles, born Oct. 8, '75.
In 1860 Mr. \V. began farming on sec. 3, Buckheart, and in 1865
bought a farm on sec. 26, where he now lives.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
Below may be found a schedule of the township officials serving
since the organization of the township, together with the years of
serving
SUPERVISORS.
A. G. Downing 1850 Howard Martin ISHB
Horatio r. Nelson 1851 Michael C. Stoner 1S()7
John H. Kellv 1852-53 A. B. Hulet 18(58-69
H. ('.Nelson.*. 1854 T. J. Kellv 1870
John H. Kellv 1855-5(5 Edwanl Mavnanl 1871
Milton Shrvock 1857 D. O. Wedge 1872
John H. Kellv 1858 Edward A. Mavnard 1873
Jeffrv A. Mavnard 1859 Wm. G Kirkpatrick 1S74
John Kellv..." 18(i0 D. O. We<lge 1875
Cvrns Bal/cock 18()l-63 A. B. Hulet 1876-77
Hnratio ('.Nelson 1804 Matthias W. Baker 1878
Milton Shryock 1865 Thomas J. Kelly 1879
TOWN CI.EKKS.
Jetfrev A. >[avnard 1850-54 John G. Tatum 1872
Chauncey Wei)ster 1855-G4 John A. Newton 1873
Sam. A. Kellv 1865-67 Eugene Smith 1874
Sam. ('. Hasson 1868 F. M. Fonts 1875-76
Edward Mavnanl 1809-70 J. H. Kirkpatrick 1877-79
Wm. D. Nelson 1871
.\SSESSORS.
Howard Martin 1859-73 Howard Martin 1877
S. A. Cunningham 1874-75 Joseph Baker 1878
Wm. Herriot 1876 George N. Shelenberger 1879
COLLECTORS.
Philip Slaughter 1859-60 F. M. Kimberlin 1871
John Fisher 1861 Jonas N Weaver 1871
David G. Fisher 1862 Nathan T. Reeves 1872
Chauncey Wehster 1863 Henry E. McCuUoch 1873
George J. Luckev 18(i4 George Luckey 1874
George T. Balyor 1805 J. P. Liseni)v 1875
Howard B. Spenny 1866 Berlin Johnson 1876
Alfred Putman...'- 1867 Abram Johnson 1877
George Rilev 1868 John W. Carev 1878
Henry Walker 1869 Levi Carper 1879
Jacob Fouts 1870
BERXADOTTE TOWNSHIP.
This township is boimded ujion the north by Cass, upon the cast
by Lowistown, south by Pleasant and upon the west by Farmer's.
It is a timbered township and contains a greater number of miles of
Spoon river than any otlier township in the county. There is,
liowever, much good land in the township and many fine fiirms.
William Walters came into the township about 1826, being its first
settler. In a short time he sold out to Isaac Stewart and moved
over into Farmer's township, where he passed the remainder of his
days. Soon came in Daniel Walters, who settled upon section 15.
Then came Solomon Sherwood, who built the first mill in the town-
ship. This was a horse-mill and did grinding for the settlers for
many miles around, until Joseph Coleman built his water-mill on
Spoon river, at the site of the present town of Bernadotte. John
Camron built a grist and saw-mill upon the same river in 1831.
These improvements brought settlers from adjoining counties, and
many are the incidents connected with their trips to these mills, re-
lated by the pioneers. They would come for many miles, and often
upon their arrival would find many ahead of them, and they would
have to wait sometimes fi)r days before their turn came. Sometimes
they would find the mill out of rejiair, the dam washed away or
something to detain them. They would then go to work and help
rebuild the dam or do whatever the miller would direct. Men have
told us that they have gone t(» the Bernadotte mill with a load of grist
and have worked at hard labor fi)r almost a week before they could
get their grain ground. They would work late and early as though
they were regularly employed and paid hands.
Thus was this point on Spoon river visited by many people,
until Mr. Coleman's enterprise suggested to him the feasibility of
laying otfatown. Accordingly in 1835, upon section 19, he platted
a town and called it by the name of Fulton. The name was soon
changed to Bernadotte. It grew rapidly and at one time ranked
among the leading towns of the county. It failed to secure a rail-
road, and when one was con^Jtructed within a few miles of it the in-
evitable result (juickly followed, and Bernadotte surrendered her
prosperty to other places. There are now several stores here that do
a fair business, a good mill, etc. Other settlers who came during
an early day were Charles Howard, William Crosby, John Harris,
who afterwards moved to Harris township, John Littlejohn, Wil-
liam Wilson, Anderson Beadles, Mr. Toler and others. The first
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 507
school-house "was erected in 1828 and John Clayburg was the first
teacher. As early as 1827 the Methodists organized a Church.
We find personal sketches of those who have made the history of
the town and township and are to-day thus engaged, to be quite
interesting and fully as good history as we can give. We will there-
fore speak briefly of some of the old settlers and prominent persons
of the township :
John J. Baldwin, farmer, sec. 33, P. O., Ipava; the son of Jackson
and Margaret (Hawkins) Baldwin, was born in Tazewell Co., 111.,
Oct. 28, 1848 ; moved to this county in 1871) ; married Feb, 12, 1877,
Marv J. Duncan, of Fulton Co. This union has been blessed with
one child, Gertrude. Mr. Baldwin is one of the leading farmers of
the township, having 160 acres of land.
/. C. Bdrkleij is engaged in agricultural pursuits upon sec. 3 of this
township.
John W, Barnes, farmer, sec. 28; P. ()., Ipava; was born in
Adams Co., O., Jan. 16, 1828 ; is the son of Luther Barnes, who was
born in Va., where he married Nancy Wear. Both of the latter are
dead. John W. came to this Co. with his parents in 183"), in a three-
horse Penn. wagon, was educated at Lewistown, and has held the
offices of Supervisor and Assessor. Was married to Elvira Zole-
man, March 24, 18()(), which uniou was blessed with two children, —
Lida B. and John R. Mrs. B. died, and Mr. B. in Se])t., 187S, mar-
ried Miss Alice Mercer, of Ohio, both of whom are now members
of the M. E. Church. Owns 300 acres of land. Democrat.
William Beckett, farmer, sec. 11, Bernadotte township; P. O.,
Lewistown; the son of Wm. and Delilah (May) Beckett, was born
in Lewis Co., Ky., March 12, 1837; father dead; mother still
living in Ky. ; Wm. came to this county in 1860 and has made
this township his home for the ])ast six years. Was married to
Miss Sarah E. Kent Jan lo, 18()2. They have seven children, all
of whom arc livin<i;, — Miry, Marzetti, Jcdediah, William, Flla,
Minta and Cora. Parents are members of the U. B. Church. Demo-
crat.
John Cannon, farmer, sec. 4 ; P. O., Smithfield ; one of the
old pioneers of this county, was l)orn in Sangamon Co. March 31,
1824, and with his ])arents came to Fulton county when only six
weeks old, which j)lace he has ever since made his home. July 4,
1846, he joined the 4th 111. Vols., Co. K, and was engaged in the
battles of Vera Cruz, Cerro (irordo, and most of the other im])ortant
battles of the Mexican war, being wounded at the last named place.
He well remembers Gen. Stonewall Jackson and Jeff. Davis. He
helped fire the first gun at Vera Cruz. Was mustered out at New
Orleans June, 1847. Married Miss Jane Sherwood Dec. 15, 1847;
three of the five children born to this union are now living, viz:
Telitha, Amanda and Charles. Has been Constable and is now
Justice of the Peace. Has fought his way to a good farm and com-
fortable home. When a boy he knew no other playmates than the
BERNADOTTE TOWNSHIP.
»
This township is bounded upon the north by Cass, upon the cast
by LewistoNvn, south by Pleasant and upon the west by Farmer's.
It is a timbered township and contains a greater number of miles of
Spoon river than any other townshij) in the county. There is,
however, much good land in the township and many fine forms.
William Walters came into the township about 182(3, being its first
settler. In a short time he sold out to Isaac Stewart and moved
over into Farmer's township, where he passed the remainder of his
days. Soon came in Daniel Walters, who settled upon section lo.
Then came Solomon Sherwood, who built the first mill in the town-
ship. This was a horse-mill and did grinding for the settlers for
many miles around, until Joseph Coleman built his water-mill on
Spoon river, at the site of the present town of Bernadotte. John
Camron built a grist and saw-mill upon the same river in LS31.
These improvements brought settlers from adjoining counties, and
many are the incidents connected with their tri])s to these mills, re-
lated by the pioneers. They would come for many miles, and often
upon their arrival would find many ahead of them, and they would
have to wait sf>metimes for days before their turn came. Sometimes
they would find the mill out of repair, the dam washed away or
something to detain them. They would then go to work and help
rebuild the dam or do whatever the miller would direct. Men have
told us that they have gone t(» the Bernadotte mill with a load of grist
and have worked at hard labor for almost a week before they could
get their grain ground. They would work late and early as though
they were regularly employed and j)aid hands.
Thus was this point on Spoon river visited by many people,
until Mr. Coleman's enterprise suggested to him the feasiliility of
laying off a town. Accordingly in 1835, upon section 19, he plaited
a town and called it by the name of Fulton. The name was soon
changed to Bernadotte. It grew rajiidly and at one time ranked
among the leading towns of the county. It failed to secure a rail-
road, and when one was constructed within a few miles of it the in-
evitable result cpiiekly followed, and Bernadotte surrendered her
prosperty to other places. There are now several .stores here that do
a fair business, a good mill, etc. Other settlers who came during
an early day were Charles Howard, William Crosby, John Harris,
who afterwards moved to Harris township, John Littlejohn, Wil-
liam Wilson, Anderson Beadles, Mr. Toler and others. The first
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 507
school-house was erected in 1828 and John Clayburg was the first
teacher. As early as 1827 the Methodists organized a Church.
We find personal sketches of those who have made the history of
the town and township and are to-day thus engaged, to be quite
interesting and fully as good history as we can give. We will there-
fore speak briefly of sonic of the old settlers and prominent persons
of the township :
John J. Baldwin, farmer, sec. 33, P. O., Ipava ; the son of Jackson
and Margaret (Hawkins) Baldwin, was born in Tazewell Co., 111.,
Oct. 28, 1848 ; moved to this county in 187() ; married Feb, 12, 1877,
Mary J. Duncan, of Fulton Co. This union has been blessed with
one child, Gertrude. Mr. Baldwin is one of the leading farmers of
the township, having 160 acres of land.
/. C. Bdrkleij is engaged in agricultural jmrsuits upon sec. 3 of this
township.
John W, Barnes, farmer, sec. 28; P. O., Ipava; was born in
Adams Co., ()., Jan. 16, 1828 ; is the son of Luther Barnes, who was
born in Va., where he mtirried Nancy Wear. Both of the latter are
dead. John W. came to this Co. with his parents in 183"), in a three-
horse Penn. wagon, was educated at Lewistown, and has held the
offices of Supervisor and Assessor. Was married to Elvira Zole-
man, March 24, 186(5, which union was blessed with two children, —
Lida B. and John R. Mrs. B. died, and Mr. B. in Sci)t., 1878, mar-
ried Miss xVlice Mercer, of Ohio, both of whom are now members
of the M. E. Church. Owns 300 acres of land. Democrat.
Willidiii Bcchett, farmer, sec. 11, Bernadotte township; P. O.,
Lewistown; the son of Wm. and Delilah (May) Beckett, was born
in Lewis Co., Ky., March 12, 1837; father dead; mother still
livint; in Kv. ; Wm. came to this countv in 1860 and has made
this township his home for the ])ast six years. Was nuirried to
Miss Sarah E. Kent Jan lo, 1862. They have seven children, all
of whom arc livinfj:, — Mary, Marzetti, Jcdediah, William, Ella,
Minta and Cora. I'arents are members of the U. B. Church. Demo-
crat.
John Cannon, farmer, sec. 4 ; P. O., Smithfield ; one of the
old ])i()neers of this county, was l)orn in Sangamon Co. March 31,
1824, and with his parents came to Fulton county when only six
weeks old, whi(!h place he has ever since made his honu\ July 4,
1846, he joined the 4th 111. Vols., Co. K, and was engaged in the
battles of Vera Cruz, Cerro Gordo, and most of the other imjxirtant
battles of the Mexican war, being wounded at the last luimed place.
He well remembers Gen. Stonewall Jackson and Jeff. Davis. He
helped fire the first gun at Vera Cruz. Was mustered out at New
Orleans June, 1847. Married Miss Jane Sherwood Dec. 15, 1847;
three of the five children l)orn to this union are now living, viz:
Telitha, Amanda and Charles. Has been Constable and is now
Justice of the Peace. Has fought his way to a good farm and com-
fortable home. When a boy he knew no other playmates than the
508 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Indians, with whom he roamed over the fields that are now covered
with p-ain. Democrat.
William B. Cannon, sec. 14; Bernadotte tp. ; P.O., Ijcwistowii ;
was born in Cass tp., March 12, 1834; removed to Cok)rad() in
1858; in 18G4 he came back, bnt returned to Colorado and after
one year's stay found his way to Fulton county. Has held office
of School Trustee in this township. Was married at Bernadotte
Aug. 12, 1863, to Miss Lucretia Steward. This union has been
blessed with two cliildren (twins), Edwin and Oscar. Mrs. C. is a
member of the M. E. Church. But few men of the township have
seen as much of the world as Mr. C, and but few of his age can be
found here that were born in this county. Democrat.
Jo.sJnia Crater, farmer, sec. 17; P. O., Bernadotte ; the son of
Piiilip and Elizabeth Crater (both of whom died in this county),
was born in Chester county, Penn., May 6, 1818, from which ]ilace
he removed to Mason Co., 111. ; from there to this county in 1851 ;
was educated in Penn. and married Catherine Knerr, of that State
in 1840; nine children have been born to this union, eigiit of whom
are livins:. jSIr. C. and wnfe are members of the Lutheran Church.
He is a blacksmith by trade, but of late has turned his attention
very successfully to farming. Republican.
Joseph De Ford, farmer, sec. 14; P. O., Lewistown ; was born in
Ohio July 19, 1827 ; his father (Thomas) was a native of Maryland;
came with his parents to this county in 1838. His father still lives
in Bushnell. Has held the office of Road Commissioner in this
township. Was married to ]\riss Eliza Rouse A]iril 9, 1849. This
union has been blessed with three children, all of whom are living;
their names are Milton J., Louisa A. and Anna L. Mr. De Ford
and lady are members of the M. E. Church. Democrat.
George W. Dieh, son of Jacob Dick, of Bernadotte township, was
born June 22, 1859, in this Co. Our subject is prei>aring to enter
the ])rofession of teaching; with his intellect and aptness, we pre-
dict for him a brilliant future. His parents are natives of Ohio,
who came to this county about the year 1850, and belong to the best
society of the community in which they live. ]Mr. Jacob Dick has
been a local ])reacher in the M. E. Church for about 20 years. P.
()., SmithHeld.
Henry Donelmn, deceased, was born near Londonderry, Ireland,
in 1812, son of Moses and Susan D., also natives of Ireland ; learned
the tailor's trade; landed in Philad(4)ihia June 12, 1830; married
Ann E. Atkinson in 1842, in l*liiladeli)hia; had 8 children, 7 of
whom are living, Anna A. having died Jan., 1848, Presbyterian.
Ivepul)lican. Mr. D. died in this county at the age of 71 years,
leaving to his family an estate of 225 acres of land, (^i sec. 30, this
tj)., where the widow and four children make their home. This
family deserve special notice for their industrious habits by which
they have made for themselves a comfortable home. P. O., Berna-
dotte.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 509
Louis Dorseif, farmer, sec. 31 ; P. O., Ipava ; was born June 18th,
1799, in Baltimore, McL, was the son of Nicholas Dorsey ; removed
to Brooke Co., W. Va., in 1829; in 1854 he came to this tp., where
he still resides; was married in Washington Co., Penn., to Abbar-
illa Lindsey in 1834, who was born in Baltimore, Jan. 18, 1813.
Siven children were the fruits of this marriage, the youngest of
whom, Emma v., lives witii her parents at the old homestead. Mr.
D. has been a member of the M. E. Church and is a Democrat.
Frank M. Di/ckes, farmer, sec. 29 ; P. O., Ipava ; was born in
Lewistown, March 27, 1848, the son of Joseph and Luciuda
Dyckes, who still reside in Lewistown. Mr. D., who has resided in
Fulton county all his life, wrs educated at Lewistown and the
Wesleyan University at Bloomington, 111. After leaving college he
became Deputy Circuit Clerk of this county, which office he filled
with honor for six years, at the expiration of which he turned his
attention to farming-, on the fine farm of 480 acres owned by him-
self and his brother William, of Lewistown, one of the best of the
county. Democrat.
Albert N. Dobbins, firmer, sec. 32 ; P. O., Ipava ; is the son of
John C. and Harriette Dobbins, who came to this county over 40
years ago. The subject of this sketch was born in Vermont, Nov.
22, 184(3, where he remained till 1875, when he removed to thistp. ;
was married in Ipava in 1871, to Julia Pickering, who was born in
Ohio in 1847. This union has been blessed with 2 children, John
and Sherman, both of whom are living. Mr. Dobbins is one of the
first farmers and stock dealers in this county, owning a fine farm of
324 acres of rich prairie land. Both he and his wife are members
of the Presbyterian Ciiurch. Reptd)lican.
Ira F. El rod, farmer, sec. 28; P. ()., Ipava; the son of INtichael
Elrod, of Kentucky, and Ruth (Evans), both of whom died in
Kentucky, was born Feb. 22, 1820; went to Adams Co., Ohio, in
1831, where he remained till July 4, 1^37, when he removed to this
county, where he has remained ever since; was educated in Ohio
and Kentucky ; has held the office of Supervisor for five terms
consecutively ; was married to Elizabeth Vail, of Butler Co., Ohio,
in Bernadotte tp. Mr. E. has raised several children for others, by
which he has justly gained a re])utation for jihilanthropy. His
grandfather was the first white child born west of the Alleghany
Mountains. He is a pioneer, and by toil and patience he has con-
verted 320 acres of wild land into a beautiful farm. There are now
but two voters in his townsliij) who were voters when Mr. E. first
located here. He is a Democrat.
John Green was born in Fulton county. 111., Aug. 27, 1840; was
the son of Jacob and Mary (Chicken) Green; was educated in this
county, and married Paulina Anderson, March 5, 1865; has three
children, — Rachel, !Mary and Robert. Resides sec. 7. Republi-
can. P. O., Bernadotte.
George B. 31. Hamm, sec. 20 ; P. O., Ipava ; was born in York
512 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
E. Scovil Jan. 1, 1851, after whose death he married Mrs. Emma
J. Griffith April 1860, by which union four children have been
born, all of whom are living, — Charles H., Sidney R., Eva C. and
Lewis. Both Mr. and Mrs. Paul are members of the M. E. Church.
Greenbaeker.
Henry Polhemus, farmer, sec. 30 j P. O,, Ipava ; was born in Fair-
view, Fulton Co., 111., in 1849. His father, Garrett Y., who mar-
ried Jane BrokaM', of New Jersey, came to this county among the
early pioneers. The subject of this sketch was raised at Fairview,
from which place he removed to this tp. in 1876; was married to
Miss Kate Stines June 29, 1875. Mrs. P. is a native of New
Jersey, born in 1855. This union has been blessed with two chil-
dren, Mnferd and Georgianna. Generally Republican.
Jesse R. Shipton, farmer, sec. 18; P. ()., Bernadotte ; was born in
Pennsylvania Nov. 11, 1828; removed to Indiana, where he re-
mained till 185G, then removing to Bernadotte tp., this county;
married Elizabeth Rothrock Nov. 3,1856. Mr. S. has held the
offices of Assessor, Town Clerk and Justice of the Peace; the latter
office he still occupies. Although not among the old pioneers of
this county, his official record shows that he is one of the promi-
nent men of his township, one that has been tried and not found
wanting in honesty, integrity and ability. Democrat.
Joseph Sinif/i, M. D., sec. 35, Bernadotte tp. ; P. O., Duncan's
^lills ; was born in Harrison Co., Ohio, Nov. 3, 1831 ; in 1851 he set-
tled in McDonough Co., and removed to this county where he has
since resided; was educated at Cincinnati and Barnesville, Ohio;
nuirried July 18th, 1852, to Miss Mary A. Brown, of Ohio: of their
nine children six are living. Both the Doctor and his lady are
members of the Christian Church. Republican.
WiUlnin Sinif/i, farmer, sec. 34; P. ()., Ipava; was born in Penn-
sylvania March (5, 1827, from which ])lace he moved to Ohio in 1829,
where he remained till 1848, when he came to this State. Here his
mother died and he returned to Ohio, but came back to this State
soon after and settled in this county. He was married to Miss Hes-
ter E. Hopkins in 1860, in Astoria tp., and nine children have been
born to this union, seven of whom are living. Has an 80-acre farm.
Though belonging to no church ]Mr. S. is a professor of religion,
while his wife is a member of the M. E. Church. Greenbaeker.
James A. Sjjerri/, farmer and fruit-grower, sec. 20; P. C, Berna-
dotte; born in IV'rnadotte tp. in 1844, son of S. A. Sperry, who with
wife now resides in I])ava, 111. ; held the office of Postmaster at Ber-
nadotte; was married at that place in Nov., 1870, to Miss Alice
Wood ; this union has been blessed with 3 children, — Harry, Roy and
Mabel, all of whom are living. Mr. Sperry has lived in this connty
all his life, and by perseverance has establisiied himself as one of the
tir-;t fruit-growers and farmers in this section, having 160 acres of
land on which he has his nursery. J^epublican.
Wm. S. Strode, teacher, Bernadotte, should be mentioned among
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 513
the public educators of the county. He was born in Fulton coun-
ty Dec. 8, 1847. His flitlier, Thos. Strode, is among- the earliest
settlers of the country. Mr. S. was educated at Abingdon and the
Commercial College at Quincy, 111. ; enlisted in Co. G, 50th 111.
Vol., Feb., 18G4; was mustered out July 3, 1865; was married
Dec. 25, 1870, to Miss Amelia Steele, at Astoria, a native of Ohio,
and they have had three children, viz: Minefred, Muriel and
AValter. Mr. S. has taught school 12 years, one year and a half in
Quincy, the rest of the time in this county. Also a good teacher of
penmanship. Republican.
ThoK. If. Wdltcri^, farmer ; P. ()., Ipava ; son of the old pioneer,
Daniel Walters; was born in Alabama Jan. 6, 1847; came with his
parents to this county in 1849; has been elected Constable, but
would not serve ; was therefore fined $5 for not obeying the com-
mands of the people. Was married Aug., 1852, to Miss Phoebe
Litchfield, of Ohio, and this union has been blessed with
three children, two of whom are living,^^Henry and Genevra.
Owns about 300 acres of fine land. Democrat.
Mi/ro)} Wheeler was born Aj)ril 18. 1841, in this county; mar-
ried Maivh 13, 1872, Amanda Andrews, and they have had two
children. He is a very successful farmer of 80 acres of land on
sec. 7, Bernadotte tp. Republican.
H. Yonkem, farmer, sec. 0 ; P. O., Bernadotte. Came from
Madison Co., 111.
Jamefi Camron, sec. 19. This man was an early settler here, and
assisted in building the l)lock house on Tatten's prairie; a soldier
in the Black Hawk war; engaged in many exciting hunts after wild
hog-; ; helped saw the boards for the first tan-yard in Lewistown ; built
the fourth house west of Lewistown, where Smithfield now stands,
and on the same i sec. that Wm. Camron now owns. His father,
Thomas Camron, was a native of Ireland ; came to Georgia when a
small boy; then to Kentucky, White Co., 111., SangauH»n Co., 111.,
and this county. He died at the age of 80 vears. Mr. James Cam-
ron, the subject of this biography, was born in Henderson Co., Ky.,
Feb. 14, 1807; had no schooling, but by hard work has obtained a
farm of 357 acres, besides some town property in Table Grove; has
been twice married, and has 11 children, of whom 8 are living,
namely, Thomas ()., Senreua B., Nancy E,, Caroline, Rebecca A.,
James, Elizabeth and John. His first marriage was in March,
1828, to Elizabeth Herell, a native of Kentucky ; his second was in
1874, to Matilda Ellis, a widow.
;• TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
Below may be found a schedule of the township officials serving
since the organization of the township, together with the years of
serving :
514
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
SCPERVISORS.
Jesse Smith 1850-51
Tera Jones 185l'-53
John M. Lejvis 1854
Lyman Moon 1855
Jos(-j»h Dyckes 185G
John M. Lewis 1857
Jos.'i.h Dvckts 1858-60
Philip Medley 1861-02
H. McChaughev 1862
J. W. Barnes 1863
Philip Medley 1864
H. M<(hau<.'hey 1865-68
Wni. M. Hunter 1869
Eli Moorhouse 1870
Adrian E. Lane 1871-73
Lyman Moon 1874
Im F. i:irod 187.3-79
TOWN CLERKS.
Harrison MeC'haughev 1860-64
Dayid Deobler ." 1866
Wm. M.Canie 1868
T B. Welistrr 1869
Thomas \Voo<l 1870
AVni. M. Hunter 1871
J. H Wood 1872
Thomas Plumb 1873
J. K. Shipton 1874
I. M. Hughes 1875 -
AV. F.Sharp 1876
John Jay 1877
John MeChaujrhey 1878-79
ASSESSORS.
John Barnes 1860-61
Philip Medley 1866
Simon P. Snider 1868
E. D. Tuthill 1869
Jacob Hecord 1870
Thomas J. Sharp 1871
E. D. Tuthill 1872-73
A. B. Hickard 1874-76
F. M. Sally 1877
J. L'. Moorhead 1878
Clark Moorhead 1879
COLLECTORS.
Augustus Stewart 1860
Wm. Wheeling 1861
A. J. Hummel 1862
John Harriford 1863-69
Rol)ert Sorrel 1870
F. B. Wfb.ster 1870
John Harriford 1871
G. P. Stewart 1872-73
C. E. Overton 1874
J. C. Moorhead 187.5-76
W. F. Snarp 1877
Wm. Freeman 1878
Wesley W. Hieks 1879
CANTON TOWNSHIP.
This township was among the very first townships of this county
that were settled by the whites. Captain David W. Barnes, spoken
of in the first chapter, was the first pioneer to locate here with his
family. Among others who came into the township at a very early
date and located outside of the town, were Theodore and (liarles
Sergeant, Henry Therman, George Matthews, Aaron Roberts, John
Pixley, Seth Littler, David Gallentine, Michael Fraker, .John Cole-
man, Thomas Wolf, a Mr. Campbell, and Daniel Babbett. There,
was a family by the name of (Jarland who lived here as early as
1824. Garland is believed to have been a brother-in-law of Kin-
ney, the man who with Mr. Swan laid off Canton. Joseph Ander-
son settled upon the northwest quarter of section 35 in 1<S23. An-
derson was the first settler in Banner townshij) and resided near
Utica prior to his coming to this township. He had been a soldier
in the British army during the war of 1812, but, being taken pris-
oner by the American forces under General Scott, had concluded to
cast his fortunes among his captors. He was a thoroughgoing,
enterj^rising man, an Irishman by education and the kind of a man
especially adapted to pioneer Hie. He brought with him seven
children, five boys and three girls. The boys were Joseph, Richard,
James, Samuel and A. N., most of whom are deceased.
Th(> verv first mill of any description in this townshi]> was -a
band-mill owned bv Michael Fraker. "Father Fraker," as he was
commonly known, was a regular pioneer genius, always ready to
adapt himself to any unfiivorable surroundings. His cleverness
was displayed shortly after his arrival by the construction of a
liand-mill to grind his neighbors' and his own grain. ;\ band-mill
was so called because a raw-liide band was put ujxm a large drive-
wheel, in the j)lace of cogs: it saved the gearing of the mill.
These mills constituted the lowest and clicapest order of horse-mills.
Pins were ])ut in the place of cogs, and around them the band was
placed. These |)ins might be changed in holes made for the pur-
pose, so that the band might be tightened when desired. Capt. liarnes
lived two and a half miles north of the present city of Canton and
Michael Fraker lived east of Mr. Barnes' farm and north of the
Fairview bridge. He came into the county in 1823 and in 1828
moved to Lynn township, Knox county. He was the first settler
there and gave the name to Fraker's Grove. Jacob Kllis erected a
water mill between Canton and Lewistown about 1824, which did a
516 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
good business. About 182!) he erected anotlier mill within .'J miles
of Canton upon Big creek, which brougiit milling very convenient
to the ])co])le of Canton. Some of the people, who were not close
to one of those primitive jnills, contented themselves with ]irepar-
ing their meal on a "grater." These "graters" were perforated
sheets of tin bowed on to a board, so that the shape was similar to
a longitudinal half section of stove-pipe. The rough outside of the
perforated tin would tear the grains of corn when it was rubbed
briskly over its surface, and by an hour's hard labor meal enough
for a small cake could be manufactured. >
Those old-time circular wolf-hunts described on page322aflPorded
exciting holidays to pioneers, and scarcely a neighborhood in all this
Northwest went without them. Canton and vicinity had a grand
one in 1<S4"2, when the center of the arena chosen was that higii
point of prairie northwest of Canton, since occupied by Overman's
nursery, and known as Overman's Mound. It is estimated that
0,000 men that day encompassed an area about 20 miles in diameter,
— men enough to make the line unbroken, and they must have
gathered uj) every wolf within that immense circle; the number they
enclosed and dispatched was eleven. The dogs accompanying the
hunters were of course numerous enough to dispose of all the wolves
without any assistance from gunners, — indeed shooting could not be
allowed. Another wolf hunt occurred in 1<S45, when only two
wolves were killed. Wolves always seem more numerous than
they really are, they are so omnij)resent and noisy. If the men
could only have driven all the rattlesnakes and "hoop-snakes" to-
gether into the center and killed them too, their benefaction to the
country woidd have been doubled; but the universal hate which
mankind bears toward these rej^tiles has in time led to the entire
extirpation of one, and aln^ist the entire extermination of the other.
George Maxwell tells us that when he moved upon his place the
countrv was all a wilderness. His nearest neijrhbor to the west was
Hon. Oliver Shipley, and on the east towards the town M'as John
Wolland, who lived on the old stage road. In an early day Mr.
Maxwell would often be called away from home to attend to his busi-
ness and would remain away sometimes two weeks. Money was
scarce then and the settlers were j)Oor. He has often remained over
night with settlers where he went to bed and could count the stars
through the roof and sides of the building. To-day these people have
the finest residences in' the county. The settlers had no ]>ine lumber
at that time. Houses, stables, etc., were constructed of hewn tim-
ber. Prosperity began slowly and was often retardcnl, but at the
commencement and during the war progress and improvement went
on and the farmers accumulated rapidly. During those years wool
sold at §1 per pound, wheat from §2 to S.'> jkt bushel. Horses
worth now from ^lo to 8100 then sold for ^175 to ^250. Hogs that
sold from 10 to 12i cents per pound are now worth 3 cents. Milch cows
which before the war were worth $15 to $18 were worth then $60
to §80.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 517
This is one of the finest bodies of land in the State, and is under
the best of eultivation. Here we find the best farm houses and
barns in the county, and one of the most cultured and refined agri-
cultural communities in the State.
After dotailinii' the history of the city of Canton we shall speak
personnally of mauy of those wlu> have developed the resources of
the township and those who are at present thus engaticd, in con-
nection with iiiauv of the old settlers and leading citizens of the
city.
CANTON CITY.
The city of Canton is situated at the junction of the Toledo,
Peoria ct Warsaw and the Chicago, Burlington cV: (iuincy Railroads,
and upon one of the most fertile jirairics to be found in our great
Prairie State. It is the largest city of Fulton county and one of
the most beautil'ul and prosperous of the State. As a live, wide-
awake business place, Canton has no su])erior and but few equals in
Illinois. Combined with its busy aspect is the air of a city, — the
culture, refinement and wealth so noticeable in larger centers. Indeed,
expressed in few words. Canton is a bustling^ little city. Its busi-
ness houses are large and well stocked, and attract, as a natural re-
sult of these facts, together with the gentlemanly class of mcn^hants
Avho occujiy them, "'a large trade, even froiii the adjoining towns. The
residences of the city are in general neat and tastefid in external
appearance, while some of them border on the palatial. The streets
are kept clean, sidewalks in good repair, and indeed the same vein
of enterj)rise which prc^vades the business of the town is not wanting
in public affairs. While 'ousiuess enterprise and bustle is to be a<l-
mired, and does receive recognition Avherever disj)laye(l, there are
other factors equally im[>ortant to any commnnity which has for
its motto. Progress, as this city has, — progress not alone in a busi-
ness sense, — in building large factories, in stretching out the arm's
of trade, in accumulating wealth, but ])rogress also in all that per-
tains to the elevation of human society. Intelligence, culture and
refinement must go hand in hand with business where this is desired.
These ennobling elements of society soften and ]>olish the rough life
of the great business world. In these features, as in her business. Can-
ton is also especially noticeable. Her churches, her schools, her so-
ciety are exceptionally good. If the iidiabitants of this city were
conveyed to a wilderness an observant stranger could easily tell
that tliey were reared amid the refining and elevating infiuences of
the Christian Church, good sch.ools and a cultui'cd s(»ciety.
Canton, which is sitiuited u|K)n sections 20, 27, 34 and 35 —
princi])ally on 27 and 34 — of Canton townshij), was laid out by
Isaac Swan and a man by the name of Kinney, on the lOth day of
December, 1825. In 1822 Theodore Sergeant, who is spoken of
elsewhere in this volume, by mistake decided to pre-empt the north-
east quarter of section 27. He erected a cabin north of the site of
518 HISTORY OP^ FULTON COUNTY.
the present liijjh-school building, and put into cultivation a few-
acres of land. Mr. Sergeant, being a single man, in 1823 employed
Harrison Ilughland, a blacksmith, to occupy his cabin, board him
and carry on blacksmithing, which he did for aljout a year, but
afterwards carried on a shop for himself Hughland Avas a maker
of cow-bells, and did the first manufacturing of any kind in the
township, — making bells for the few settlers in the county. Isaac-
Swan ap])carcd uj)on the scene in 1824 and exhibited to Sergeant a
military title to the same (juarter of land he had settled upon. He
immediately vacated, leaving Swan in possession. Swan was ac-
companied by his brother-in-law, Nathan Jones, who owned the
northwest cpiarter of section 34. By mutual agreement, owing to
the fact that .Tones' land was covered with timber and Swan's was
prairie, they divided with each other. Swan taking the north half of
Jones' land and he in turn taking the south half of Swan's. This
gentleman saw in this a fine location for a town and proposed to Mr.
.Tones that they lay off one on the west forty acres of their prairie
tract. To this Jones would not assent. At this time Mr. Kinney
was living on the northeast quarter of section 27, who proposed to
Mr. Swan to join in the enterprise. This proposition was accepted
and one hundred and eight lots were platted. Ivinney, however,
did not remain a half owner of Canton very long, for during the
following season John Coleman, sr., apjjcared with a title to the
quarter of kind claimed by him and he ousted Kinney and took
possession of the quarter. Coleman fenced up Kinney's survey,
running the fence to the center of Adeljihi street, the boundary
line between him and Swan. This was a source of no little con-
troversy in regard to Adelphi street, some claiming that Coleman
had no legal riy-ht to vacate it; others claimiui; that he had. Jones
soon laid oil his first addition directly south of the original town.
In this he laid otf the j)ublic scpiare, he owning the ]iropcrty on three
sides of it and Swan on the fourth.
Isaac Swan erected the first building on the original town ])lat,
immediately after it was laid out. This building was a log cal)in,
perhaps Ki by 18 feet, and was fi)r some time known as ** Swan's
catch-all." It was designed as a stopj)ing-place for any family that
miffht come in, until thev could build. It was situated on Union
street, above Fourth.
As a fitting tribute to the memory of Mr. Isaac Swan, the found-
er of Canton, we wish to give a brief personal sketch of him in
this connection. He was a native of Vermont, but emigrated with
his father to Western New York wliile that region was still a wil-
derness. At the age of about twenty years he left New York, in
com])any with his brother-in-law, Nathan Jones, and started for the
Great West. Making several short tarryings in difi'erent parts of
Indiana, they finally estai)lished themselves in St. Clair county,
Illinois, about 1818. They remained there until 1820, when they
removed to Montg-omerv countv, and tarried there until 1824,
:•!
VV>^-
r C^^ c c^(ni
/'y DECEASE
ED
CANTON
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 521
wheiv they removed to Fulton county, arriving at the present loca-
tion of Canton in the spring of that year. Isaac Swan was a man
nearly six feet in heigiit, splendidly proportioned, and renuirkablc,
even among pioneers, for his strength and activity. His courage
was un(picstioned, and made him a valuable ac(piisition to any new
settlement in which his lot was cast. Mr. Swan had only such edu-
cation as could be obtained in the log school-houses of Erie county,
Xew York, fifty-five and sixty years ago ; yet he had so far imj)rov-
ed his limited opportunities as to be considered a man of fair educa-
tion. He was a Methodist, an honest man and a good citizen, one
whose word was his bond. He gave to Canton its establishment
and almost all of its early prosperity, his enterprise and energy di-
recting attention to it and bringing in new settlers, many of whom
were attracted by a desire to settle near him. He was killed by the
storm in 1835.
The first family to avail themselves of Swan's "catch-all" was
the family of John Hannan, who came soon after Swan and Jones
did. Hannan got a lot on Main street from Swan and built the
first house in the town intended for a residence. This was a cabin,
and was occupied by him until his death, which occurred at Beards-
town in 1831, as he was returning from St. Louis. His widow con-
tinu(Hl to occupy the same house for some time, when she moved to
a farm just east of the C, B. tt Q. Railroad.
John C. Owens came in about the same time the Hannans did,
and erected a cabin on Wood street. It was in this house that, in
all probability, the first white child was l)orn in the original town
of Canton. It is claimed by some that Harrison Hughland's wife
gave birth to the first white child while living near the Central
school-house site. If this is true, as there seems to be reason to
believe, this child — whether male or female is not now known —
was the earliest born within the present city limits. But John C.
Owens' oldest boy — name not known — was, without doubt, the
first born on the original j)lat. Mr. Owens was a farmer, and a son-
in-law of old Father Fraker, who lived just west of Big creek at
that time. Owens at this time, however, was living with his sec-
ond wife, who was a sister of Lewis Walling's fii-st wife. Owens
and Fraker removed from Canton, at an earlv date, and settled at
Fraker's Grove, Knox county.
Swan was a man of enterprise, and was determined that his town
should be ))opulated at once; so, as an inducement to settlers, he
announced his determination to give a lot to any man who would
build and become a settler in the town. John Hannan was the
first man to secure a lot, and was fi»llowed soon by others. Swan
kept this offer good until about 1833, stiptdating, however, in later
vears, as to the kind of house that should be built.
At this time (1826) Samuel Morse resided on what was then
known as the Morse quarter, west of and adjoining the town plat.
Morse was the owner of a hand mill, upon which was ground much
32
522 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
of the corn-meal used by the .settlers of Clinton. Morse continued
to reside in Canton until some time about 18;U, when he removed
to Knox county. His wife, Mary Morse, was a tailoress, and the
first that ever worked in Canton.
In 1824 Yelverton Peyton erected a hou'^e within the present city
limits, on the Coleman tract, near where Hayden Keelinii; has now
a brickyard. Peyton was a large man and a giant in strength. It
is said that he cut the logs for his cabin and "backed" them up on
his shoulders, carrving logs no two ordinary men could have lifted.
Peyton lived here a few years and was taken down with consumption.
He went south, finally, fi)r his health and died.
Until about 1830 there were no regular dry-goods stores in Can-
ton. Up to that period goods were purchased either at Edwards-
ville or St. Louis. The settlers would several of them club together
and select one or two of their number to take a "pirogue," loaded
with the neighborhood peltry, beeswax and honey, to one or the
other of those markets and exchange it for salt, lead, powder, and
such other goods as might be within the scope of their ambition or
means. This trip occupied about two months' time, and was at-
tended with considerable difficulty and not a little danger.
"One of the buildings erected in Canton in 1825," says Mr. Swan
in his History of Canton, "was a school-house. It was situated on
the west side of Wood street, between Union and Illinois streets.
John C. Owens was the first school-teacher. This house merits a
description. It was of logs, unhewn and by no means straight.
The roof was low and covered with clapboards, kept in place by
weight-poles. The house-logs were very small, of willow and Cot-
tonwood timber, principally. Several holes were cut through the
logs to let the dark out, but admitted a very scanty supply of light.
The floor for the first year was of the best variety of prairie soil,
tramped hard by the feet of the young ideas who were there taught
to shoot. The seats were logs s])lit in tw<» ])arts andsujiported on jiins
driven into holes bored for the purpose. The one writing desk was a
wide puncheon, with its upi)er surface planed, and supported on slant-
ing pins driven into one of the logs. The door of unshaved clapboards,
swung ujX)n wooden hinges. One side of the room was occupied by
an enormous old-fiishioiied firc-]ilace. There was no ceiling save
the clapboard roof, aUhough one or two joists held a wide puncheon,
whereon, at overcrowded meetings — for this school-house also did
duty as a place of worshij) — the more adventurous of the boys would
climb and sit out the service, with their bare legs swinging over the
heads of the worshij)ers below. Here Owens asseml)lcd a few of
the children in the winter of 1825 and 1826 — Jo. and Jim Anderson,
Henry Andrews, Ed. Therman, Harriet, Elniira and Williston
Jones, the Owens children, the Peyton, Hughland and Fraker chil-
dren, and a few others. Owens was succeeded by Ezra Fairchild.
Fairchild succeeded in getting a puncheon floor ])ut into the school-
house, and some other trifling improvements made. He was an ex-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 523
cellent tcaclRT, ami for many years held the position of Justice of
the Peace in Canton, beino- the successor of Isaiah StiUman in that
office."
We take the foHowinw from Mr. Swan's History : "The Public
Square formed a jiortion of Nathan Jones' First Addition to the
Town of Canton. It was proposed originally to give to the jju'blic
for a public square one Avhole block, extendino; from Main to Prairie
streets east and west, and frt)ni Union to Elm streets north and
south. This ])r()i)osition, however, from some unknown cause, was
not carried into effect, and when the survey was made the Public
Square was limited to one-half its present area, extending from
Union street south to the alley which divides the block. The two
lots south of the alley were given as a donation to the Presbyterian
house of worship which was erected u|)on one of them. It was not
until in about 1841, after the removal of the church from the l^ublic
Square, that Deacon Jones, — who had not previously deeded the lots,
although intending so to do, — by an arrangement Ijetween the two
branches of the Presbyterian Church after the separation, deeded
the lots in question, thereby making the S(juare its ])rcsent size.
The deed to these lots was not immediately put upon the records,
and as a result of this neglect they were assessed and sold for taxes,
and j)urchasc(l by Ahira Saunders. Mr. Saunders undertook, in
about 1S42, to obtain })ossession, but was met by the deacon's deed
to the public, and, as public property was not taxable, his specula-
tion failed.
" Prior to 1830 the business of the town, as well as most of the
residences, was on Wood street; and in that year, when Joel
Wright and Childs & Stillman commencctl business, they located
their stores on that street. In about 18.'30 the first building was
erected on the Square : it was a log house, built by Richard Stevens,
a brother-in-law of Isaac Swan, and was about where Mansfield's
brick stor(>-house now stands, on the south side.
"In 1832 Joseph Anderson built a cabin on the lot now occuj>icd
by Ingersoll's store on the west side. Mr. Anderson moved into
this house to be near the Fort at Esquire Wright's, during the
Black-JIawk war. In 18;>:] fjouis Ijidamon erected the first frame
house on the Square. This house was a very low one-story house,
long and narrow, and stood on the east side. In 1834 Messrs.
Tryon & McCutchcon built and occupied the first store-house on
the Square. This was a frame l)uilding, and was Jocated on the
west side. ^Messrs. Tryon i^' McCutchcon sold out, a few vears later,
to Messrs. Marklcy' & Solomon. Tlu- j)ropcrty afterward passed
into the hands of Dr. J, R. Walter, who remodeled it and occu])ied
it as a residence for many years. Messrs. Tryon & ^IcCutchcon
sold out to Messrs. :Markley*& Solomon in May, 18H3G.«-^The Mr.
Solomon of this firm was the well-known — to old settlers — Joel
Solomon, for many years Circuit Clerk of the county. Judge David
Markley was the senior partner. In November, 1830, Mr. Mark-
524 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
ley purchased Mr. Solomon's interest in this store, and became sole
])r()j)rietor, continuing in business until 1839. Mr. Markley \va< a
man eminently fitted for pioneer life. A hirge, powerful man, a wit,
and at tiie same time a man of sound judtrmcnt, he sf»on became
prominent among the [)ioneers. He liad filled the othces of" County
Judge in Chamj)aign county, Ohio, and of Colonel of a regiment in
the war of 1<S1'2, previous to his emigration, and was very soon
after his immigration identified witli the pul)li(' interests of the peo-
ple with wliom lie had cast his lot. In 1<S38, two years after his
settlement in the county, he was elected to fill a vacancy in the
State Senate, caused by the resignation of Judge Hackleton, and
was twice re-elected, making his term of service ten full years. In
1847 he was elected a member of the Convention to form a new
Constitution for tlie State of Illinois, and was one of most influential
members. About the same time Governor Ford appointed him a
member of the Board of Canal Commissioners. Whik^ acting in
this capacity, he selected the lands granted l)y the Ignited States
Government to the State in aid of this enterprise. In 1844 Judge
Markley removed from Canton to Banner township, near Monterey,
where he remained until lS."j(), when he again removed to Nebraska ;
but, not satisfied with that territory, he soon returned, and settled
in Stark county, near Rochester in Peoria county.
"In about 1830 Messrs. Brooks & Cogswell ojiencd a store on
the Public Square. They continued in business until about 1839.
In the fall of 1835 Jno. C. Willis erected a frame buiUlingfor hotel
purposes on the Public S(|uare, on tlie west side. This hotel was
rented to a Mr. Williamson and David Russell, who run it a short
time and then gave })lace to Frederick Mennert, who, in his turn,
was succeeded by Hugh R. Smith. I\hv Smith's successor was
David Collins. In about 1841 Thos. Wills took the house, and re-
mained its ])roprietor until about 18r)3 or '4. In 183() Messrs. Steel
tt Ballard occu})ied one of the ground-floor rooms of this house as
a store-room. Mr. Steel was the son-in-law of Ossian M. Ross.
He came in 1830, and remained a resident of Canton until his
death. In 1830 Messrs. Shinn ct Vittum erected a store-house on
the southwest corner of the Public Scpiare, as a business house.
This store was occupied by Mr. Shinn u]) to the time of his death.
"The first brick store-room on the Public Square was erected by
Mr. John Blackadore, in 1845. It was on the south side, on the lot
he now o(■('upic^>^. This was an old-fashioned brick, two-stories high,
and was burned in 1805. In 1848 ^Nlr. S. Smith bnilt the second
brick on the Scjuare, on the lot east of Mr. Blackadore's building.
This building was afterward purchased by the Messrs. Babcock,and
was known a*; the "Regulator." It was burned in 1S(;5, in the
same fire that destroyed Mr. lilackadore's building.
"The same season, T. Maple erected the first three-story brick
block in the city, on the southeast corner of the Public Square. The
fall of the same season Mr. Jno. G. Graham and A. H. White each
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 525
erected tliree-storv hussiness houses. Mr. White disposed of his
buildiuff hv h)tterv in 185(). In 1838 a Mr. Sciuires built a house
on the northeast corner of the Square, and estal)lished a grocery-
store. This establishment did not run long before Squires sold out
to Jones & Weeks, who turned it into a dry -goods store. Jones
was either a Spaniard or Portuguese, and, from his C()mj)lexi()n, was
known as "Black Jones." He spoke several foreign languages, and
was quite a shrewd man, but not suspected of honesty to any great
extent."
Richard Addis came from the State of New Jersey and early
identified himself with the infant village of Canton. While sub-
ject to the malarial atmosj)here incident to a new country, he soon
afterwards succumbed to its deadly influence and died. When Mr.
Addis conceived the notion of coming West he was in well-to-do
circumstances. He traded a large interest in a woolen factory in
New Jersev to oneMunn, of New York city, for '.V2 quarter-sections
of Illinois land just before starting, supposing, of course, that the
title would be perfect. He did not receive his deeds until he had
j)repared to move, — indeed until he was in his wagon. No time for
examination was had until he was well on his journey, when he
found the supposed deeds were only a Avarranty for one year and no
more; the consequence proved an almost total loss. After many
years had rolled around, and long after "Uncle Richard" had passed
awav, a strange fatal itv seemed to overtake every effort to recover
the loss. While an eminent (■(»unsel was engaged in taking testi-
mony with a view of prosecuting the case, and ere he was scarcely
through, he died very suddenly. In the course of time another
friend undertook the task of prosecuting the claim, and while en-
gaged in securing facts and evidence, he, too, was taken suddenly
ill and died, while on his way from Fairview to Lewistown.
"Uncle Richard's" M-idow, "Aunt Jemima," as she was known,
survived him many years, to the comfort and pleasure of numerous
friends wiio took great interest in hearing her relate incidents of
early life here, and especially stories about the Indians. The latter,
while upon their begging excursions, would take great deVight in
making as many tracks with their bared feet upon her newly-cleaned
floor as possil)le, often turning around and laughing at their success-
ful efforts. Coming in from the trail after a rain, with their feet
thoroughly covered with clay and mud, might be sport to them to
smear, her floor, but we imagine the neat housewife .was not a little
angered ; but discretion was the l)etter \ydrt of valor, and the " less said
the easier settled" was the rule. Her daughter married Isaac
Swan, who was killed during the big storm recounted below. She
also had an infant killed while in her arms. She afterwards married
Mr. Gould, whose wife had also been killed during this tornado.
The Sfonn. — " There was one night in the history of Canton" says
Mr. Swan in his History, "that will never be forgotten s(^ long as
one of its survivors is alive. 'The Storm' has been and will long
526 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
continue to be a household word of fear among tlie citizens, old and
new ; for, so vividlv have its incidents heen described bv the (»ld to
the new citizen, that he, too, has caught the infection of dread its
terrors produced.
"The istli of June, 1S35, had been a showery day, and as night
fell, dark clouds were observed looming up in the northwest. As
the twilight deepened, from the ominous bank of thick clouds there
would blaze out lurid flashes of red lightning that illuminated a-nd
made more ominous the approaching tempest. Xinc o'clock came,
and the people had either retired to rest or were jjrejxiring so to do.
Isaac Swan Mas at family worshiji; so were several other families in
town, when the roar of the tbunder, which had grown constant and
terrific, was almost lost in the terrors of another roar, so mournful,
so dreadful and wild that it will never pass from the memory of one
who heard. It was the roar of the tornado ; and in a moment it
descended upon the doomed village, with a devastating force which
could not be withstood by any frail tenement of man that opposed
its course. In a moment of time the air became filled with the
roofs and flying timliers of exposed houses. Rails and timbers of
all kinds so tilled the air that woe to the luckless animal or person
who had no shelter ; and in another moment few of the citizens but
were shelterless. And now came great hailstones and a rain-fall,
that it seemed as though the windows of heaven were indeed opened
and the rains descending in a solid volume. Over and above all the
roar of the tempest, the cries and shriek> of the wounded and dying
were heard, and by the constant glare of the lightning it was seen
that nearly the whole town was in ruins. As the wind lulled, those
who were not too badlv iniurcd would venture out to aid the
wounded.
"Bryant L. Cook was at Philip Grimm's when the storm struck.
Grimm's house was unroofed, the children sleeping up stairs, almost
by a miracle, |)reserved, and no one of the iamily hurt. Cook at
once ran over to Isaac Swan's. He stepped uj)on a pile of ruins
which had been the house, and as he did so Betsy Swan cried out
from binder the ruins 'Oh, help mo!' Cook went to her and
found her kept down under the weight of one of the cabin-logs.
On removing it she cried, "Oh God, my jioor baby is dead I" and it
was. She had held it in her arms during all the storm, and its
brains were knocked out by falling timber. Cook heard a groan.
Betsy too heard it and said, * Oh Bryant, try to get poor Isaac
out !' Cook lifted one after another of the logs, and soon found
Swan's ::odv under the debris ; but he was fatallv injured. Bv this
time help had arrived, and he was conveyed to the Presbyterian
church, on the Srpiare, which had sustained but slight injury.
"The people now assembled at Joel Wright's, Dr. Donaldson's,
and a few other houses that were not seriously injured. At Don-
aldson's there was a scene of wild confusion ; frightened women and
children had been collecting until the house was crowded, and there
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 527
too was Betsy Swan's dead baby, while many of those present were
suffering from contusions and bruises. Elias Foster was killed, — a
spoke out of the wheel of a new wagon was driven into his groin.
His little girl was missing, and was not found until the next morn-
ing, when she was found dead, having been blown from Foster's
residence on the lot on Elm street, west of Wood, now occupied by
Rev. Mr. Wasmuth, to a hazel-thicket near the residence of Hiram
Snow, t)n Illinois street.
" The storm appears to have struck the earth between Fairview
and Canton, and, after passing through the timber west of town, de-
stroying, indeed literally mowing a path through it, swept over
the village, leaving but one or two uninjured buildings, and perhaps
a dozen that were habitable, but demolishing or seriously injuring
every other house in town. It passed a little south of east over the
present poor-farm, destroying the residence of Geo. W. Gould in
that neighborhood and killing his wife; then on through Duck
creek timber to the bluff, where it appears to have lifted, and for
some distance at least did no more damage.
"The scene the next morning was terrible. The earth was liter-
ally swept clean of fences, out-buildings, and almost of buildings,
but WIS covered with shingles, boards, rails and timbers. Franklin
P. Offiold had just received and opened a large stock of goods in a
new building on the corner of Main and Cole streets, opposite Piper's
factory. Tliis house was demolished, and the goods scattered over
the prairie clear away to Duck creek. Cattle were killed and lying
about in all directions. ChiekiMis were blown away and killed, :ind
the few standing houses were literally wrecked, moved from their
foundations, unroofed, or with gables knocked in. The great won- .
der is that no more lives were lost. Out of a population approxi-
mating five hundred, only four i)ers()ns were killed in town, — Isaac
Swan and his infant son, Flias Foster and his daughter. In the coun-
try near, Mrs. Gould was added to the list, making five victims of the
air-fiend's wrath. The destruction of property and life that would
ensue were such a storm to sweep over the country now would be
absolutely appdiing. Then the country was sparsely settled, and of
course the destruction was not so great as it would be now. The
track of the storm was about one mile in width, extending from the
residence of John Coleman on the north to the vicinity of the Cen-
tral school-house on tlie south. The marks of the storm were dis-
tinctly visible in the timber west of town until in recent years, since
the timber affected has been cleared up."
Canttin was incorporated as a town Feb. 10, 1837. Upon that
day an election was held to vote for or against incorj>oration, result-
ing in the adoption of the measure by a majority of .'U, there being
4G ballots cast. Inmiediately thereafter the following five Trus- y/
tees were chosen : David Marklev, Joel Wright, Thomas J. Little,
William B. Cogswell and Franklin P. Offield. Tiiey held this first
mastinsT March 27, 18'37, '"at Frederic Menncrts' inn." At this
528 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
meeting David Markley was chosen President of the Board and
Thomas J. Little Clerk, George W. Gould was chosen Treasurer,
John Thorp both Gollector and Constable, Nathan Jones, Lathroj)
W. Curtis and Isaiah Stilltuan Assessors, and L. W. Curtis Super-
visor of Highways. Under the by-laws adopted by this Board,
revenue was to be raised by a tax on all real estate within the bound-
aries of the town, which, it was provided, should be assessed at its
true value, and upon the assessment "an ad-valorem tax of not ex-
ceeding fifty cents on every one hundred dollars should be levied
by the President and Trustees annually." Section 36 of the ordi-
nances provided that "any j)crson who shall on the Sabbath day
play at bandy, cricket, cat, town-ball, corner-ball, over-ball, fives,
or any other game of ball, within the limits of the corporation, or
shall "engage in pitching dollars or quarters, or any other game, in
any pul)lic })lace, shall, on conviction thereof, be fined the sum of
one dollar.
Upon the 21st of February, 1.S48, an election was held to vote
for or against a second incorporation of the village. There were
120 votes cast "for" and 42 "against" the said measure of incor-
poration. It being carried, an election of town officers under this
incorporation was held March 1, 1S4H, ^vhen William Parlin, AVil-
liam Kellogg, George S. McConnell, James Wills and John G. Piper
^vere elected Trustees. These gentlemen assembled on the follow-
ing day in official capacity and chose Mr. McConnell President and'
Henrv F. Ingersoll Clerk. On the 14th of April the latter gentle-
man was chosen Treasurer of the town ; James R. Parker Assessor
and Harrison P. Fellows Collector and Constable. An election
was held Feb. 27, 1 849, to vote for or against the acceptance of a char-
ter granted the town by the Legislature. For the charter were
cast l-")() l)allots, against, 0. Under this charter the President and
four Trustees were to be elected by the people ; ])revi()usly the
President was chosen by the Board. The Board divided the town
into four wards for voting purposes. The first election held under
the charter was on A|)ril 28, 1849, when Davis Ferguson was chosi-n
President; William Thonijvson, Alderman from the First Ward;
N. H. Turner, Alderman from the Second Ward; William Parlin,
from the Third Ward, and J. B. Hinman from the Fourth.
Canton had grown to considerable size by the year 1853 and was
cpiite prosperous, so mueh so indeed, that she desired to don the name
of "city." The Legislature during its session that wintcrgranted tothe
town a city charter. The first election under this charter was held
April 4, 1854. Louis Corbin was chosen Mayor; D. H. Dewey,
Supervisor; B.. F. Moyer, Marshal; Aldermen — First Ward. W.
M. Thompson ; Secf)nd Ward, Atharin Keeling; Third Ward, J.
M.Thompson; Fourth Ward, James Wills. The Council on the
(jth of January, 1855, enacted a very stringent prohibitory liquor
law, and vigorously prosecuted all violations of it, but not with en-
tire success. It was durino: the administration of this Council that
c. /g5^ .
/
HISTORY OF FULTC^ COUNTY. 529
/
/
the ladies destroyed the whi.sky o^^ Canton, an account of which we
take from the history of Cantoiyuy Swan.
'■^ The W/iisky War. — In IcSvio the Town Council, acting in ac-
cordance with the desire of the ])coplc of Canton as expressed by
their votes, passed a very stringent pi-ohibitory liquor law. This
was openly set at defiance by sonic of the liquor-sellers. They not
only continued to sell, but sold, in at least one case, in an open, defi-
ant manner. These ])arties selling li([uors were arrested, and one
of them, finding that the suit was likely to go against him, pr()j)ose(l
a compromise with the city, agreeing, if the suit against him was drop-
ped and the city Council would pay the cost of the suit, giving him
fifteen days to close out his stock, he would close out his establish-
ment and quit the business. This compromise was agreed to by the
city, but violated by Mr. Mallory, who it was claimed, went on
from bad to worse. Other prosecutions were brought against him,
which he a])pealed, and, when they were brought to trial in the
(^ircuit Court obtained a change of venue to Mason county, showing a
determination to contest the law, as he had an undoubted right to.
"The temperance ladies of Canton were very much dissatisfied
with the slow progress being made in closing up the offending
saloons, and finally determined to take the subject into their own
hands. Secret meetings of the ladies were held to consider the ways
and means by which the sale of licpior could be stopped, and a
plan of action was finally agreed upon. It has been asserted that
a woman cannot keep a secret. This was proved to be a mistake
in this case, at least. So secretly had the women minted that Mr.
Mallory, the chief of the offenders, entirely unsuspecting, and with
no premonition of tlie fate that awaited his whisky-barrels, went to
St. Louis to nudvc additions to his already large stock.
"The firm of Charles Smith & CV)., doing business on the south
side of the Public S(]uare, had been holding a series of ladies'
auctions, at which they were disposing of a considerable stock of
ladies' fancy goods. To this auction, on Friday, the 4th day of
A})ril, 1856, the ladies, by previous understanding, came. The
auction began about one o'clock, and it was observed that the
crowd began to collect in the auction-room at an early hour. The
auctioneer \vas delighted at the great nund)ers of ladies who sur-
rounded his stand, and cried himself hoarse with praises of his
goods; but, to his astonishment, no body bid. The women con-
tinued to collect, coming in twos juid threes, all wearing s1ia\yls or
cloaks, although the day was bland and pleasant, until about two
hundred had collected.
"From some expressions let fall in the au(!tion-room, it began to
be understood upon the street that 'Sebastopol,' as ]\IalIory's saloon
was called, was to be taken. Mr. Mallory being away from home,
his friends determined to volunteer in his defense; and accordingly
quite a number of them took their positions at the entrance to the
building, — which was securely barricaded, — determined, as they
530 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
•
averred, to defend the establi.shment at the peril of their lives, if it
needed be. Among the defenders of the grocery was a constable
then serving a term in an adjoining township, a man of nerve, and
whose veracity has never been called in (juestion, who addressed a
crowd of several hundred men and bovs gathered before the door,
urging them to aid in protecting the property of the saloon-keeper,
at the same time swearing that no woman could enter the door with-
out passing over his dead body. This gentleman little dreamed
how soon the death he was invoking might be staring him in the
face.
"When the time for action came, over two hundred of the most
prominent women of Canton marched out of the auction store and
arranged themselves in columns, two by two, on the Public Square.
The excitement by this time was growing intense. Everybody,
male and female, appeared to be upon the Public Square, either as a
looker-on or a participant in the mob upon the one side or the other.
As the Amazonian column formed, a citizen stepped up to the leader
and urged her to desist, saying that the proprietor of 'Sebastopol'
was not at home, and urging them at least to give him a chance to
defend himself. The ladies responded that they were convened for"
business, and that business must go on.
''The line of march was now taken up, the leader carrying a short
sword in her hand, which she flourished in quite a martial manner,
arriving at the door, the crowd parted, except that three or four de-
termined fellows maintained themselves before the door. One of
these, the constable referred to above, declared his determination to
resist the onslaught, and declared, in response to the quiet and
low-spoken 'Stand aside gentlemen: we are going in there,' of the
leader, himself as ready lor the sacrifice by the remark, ' Not by a
d — d sight : you ain't going in unless you go over my dead body.'
Mr. Constable was a brave man; Mr. Constable was a man of
truth ; tiierefore it cannot be doulited that he met Mith a bloody
death right there, as, within one minute after his self-sacrificing
declaration, the door against which he and " two or three more
braves were standing was shivered to a thousand fragments, by
blows WL'U and vigcjnuisly aimed from gleaming hatchets^ that
leaped out from the cover of two hundred shawls in unison. Mr.
Constable therefi)re must have perished, fallen gloriously at his post
of duty, then and there.
"The door of' Sebastopol ' demolished, the work of demolition be-
gan. Bottles, unoffending candy jars, glasses and decanters, all
were smashed into a thousand fragments, and shelving and counters
shared the same fate. The cellar contained a large quantity of
li(piors. This was invaded, and barrels were knocked in, until the
spirituous flood had aceumulated on the cellar-floor to the depth of
several inches, when they l)ailed it out and threw it into the street,
determined none should be saved. Some of the women had a
lighted caudle in this cellar, and it was almost a miracle that thev
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 531
had not set fire to the spiHefl liquor and all have perished with the
objeet of their wrath.
"By the time their destruction of ' Sebastopol ' was completed,
the fumes of the licjuor had ascended to tiieir nostrils; and it is no
exaggeration to say that one-half of the ladies were, as temperance
advocates, in magnificent order to furnish the fearful example for
any ambitious temperance orator who might secure their services.
About twenty barrels of liquor, besides his saloon and bar fixtures,
were destroyed for Mr. Mallorv.
"This work completed, they re-organizod and marched to the gro-
cery of Mr. Butti'rs, on ]Main street, just soutii of the Public Sfjuare.
Mr. Butters sold nothing stronger than beer, and rolled out the only
barrel of it in his possession on the sidewalk, willing to sacrifice it
rather than trust the now infuriated Amazonian army within his es-
tablishment. This barrel of beer was at once demolished 'and the
line of march again resumed.
"There was a rectifying establishment, kept by Lamon & Childs,
near the present cemetery; Tiiither the ladies n)arched, and there,
after overawing a feeble effort at resistance on the part of the pro-
prietors, marched in and destroyed about thirty barrels of whisky
and highwines.
"This establishment destroyed, they returned to the Square and
invaded the office of Col. Wm. Babcock, who had a barrel of un-
tapped whisky there, that he was saving for domestic use after his
boy, then a babe, should become of age. The ladies will probably
remember why they did not destroy this barrel.
" All the liquor which the ladies knew to exist in the place having
been destroyed, they r(!-convened at the auction store and passed the
following resolution :
" Whereas, We, the ladies of Canton, being wives, mothers, sisters,
and daughters, have experienced the dread calamity of seeing our
husbands, sons and brothers, made drunkards by the lawless rum-
sellers of our town, and having seen the law tried to be enforced in
vain ; and wherea«, those engaged in the damning business of rum-
selling have been appealed to in vain by moral suasion, to desist
and'save the peace of our families; we have therefore, in defense of
our firesides, and with a view to save from destruction those most
dear to us on earth, been comjielled to destroy the spirituous licjuors
in our city, and it is now
"Besolred, That, as often as the practice is resumed in Canton or
vicinity, we will rid ourselves of its curse, — peaceably if we can,
forcibly if we must.
" Ointoti, April 4, 1856.
"Thus was li(pior — at least until a new stock could be procured
— put don-n by the ladies of Canton.
" During the day s(>vfral fights occurred, between parties who
were in sympathy with the ladies on the one side and with the
saloon-keepers on the other."
532 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
CHURCHES,
Mcfliodisi CJiKrch. — Rev. Jesse Walker, the first Methodist
]ircaclier iit Canton, was a missionary to the settlement between the
Illinois and Mi-sissii)[)i rivers, and to the Indians in the vicinity of
Fort Clark (now Peoria). This was in 1824. Previous to Kev,
Walker's appitintment to this eharire — the Military Traet — Jesse
Walker, a loeal ])reaeher, and his wife, John Honor and wife, Chas.
Neweomb and wife, John Orendorif and wife, Isaac Swan and
wife, Benoni Haskin and wife, Mr. I^ irnes and wife and others met
and worshi])ed in ("anton, Jesse Williams sometimes preached
for them. It is prol)al)le that he was the first ])reac]ier in Canton,
He lived near Canton until lSo'2. Jesse W alker organized the so-
ciety in Canton in 1<S24. In the spring of 1824 the Missouri Con-
ference was divided and the Illinois Conference organized, embracing
Hlinois and Indiana. Canton was regularly suj)plied by traveling
ministers from the above date until is;]2. Peter R. Barring was
the first jiastor of Canton Circuit. During the ministration of
Father Sumoiers they built the first church. He had found a small
skeleton of a building that stood on the ground now occupied by
the residence of Mr, Babeock. This building had been jnished
down and was carried away in })iecemeal, even to the foundation.
They then erected a small building on the site of the present M. E,
church, which, however, was unroofed by the storm of 1835. Rev,
P. A, Cool is the present Pastor,
PreKhi/frrian Chnrcli. — This Church was formed Sept. 13, 1828,
Rev. John M. Ellis presiding, and consisting of the f dlowing ])er-
sons : Nathan Jones, Samuel Mallory, William Proctor, Robert
Grant, Jane Grant, Matilda Jones and Elizabeth Jacobs, The two
first named were chosen Elders. Rev, Ellis jireached from II
Sam, vi, 11, The following resolution was adopted at a meeting
held in Canton July 4, 183U: ''Believing that the use of ardent
spirits is the cause of forming intemperate appetites and habits, and
that while it is continued the evils of intemperance can never be
j)revented, the members of this Church do agree that avc wjll abstain
from the use of distilled spirits, except as a medicine in case of sick-
ness or for external apj)licatioii, and that we will not allow the use
of them in our families, and neither give nor sell them to our
neiglil)ors or friends or j^ersons in our emjdoyment, and that we
will discountenance the use of them in all ways in the community,"
Rev, H, Smith presided as moderator of this meeting. Rev, L,
Farnuni and Rev, R. Barnes were ministers of this Church in the
county in 1831 ; Rev, Robert Stewart from 1834 to '38 ; Samuel C.
McCune from 1840 to 'oO; Isaac Bennett from 1851 until his death
June 16, 185(5; Rev, Geo, Stebbins for six months; Rev. J, V.
Dodge from May 24, 1857, until March 1859; Rev, James Coch-
ran ; Rev, C. Reed from 18()5 to 1808, and Rev, Josiah Moore from
18(J8 to 1873, when July (5 of that year, Ixcv, S, C, McCune, the
present Pastor, again received a call. The division of the Presby-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 533
terian Ciiureli of Canton we give iu the sketeli of the Congrega-
tional Chureli.
Conr/ref/ational Church. — On the 13th of Se})tember, 1828, a Pres-
byterian Chnreh of seven members was formed in Fulton eonnty.
This Church had two plaees of inciting, Canton and Lewistown. In
less than two years its membership increased to 8i>. In August,
1831, it was cletermined that Kev. Messrs. Barnes and Farnum
coramenee their labors in the county as ministers of this Church.
Rev. Romulus B;u-nes found his j)rinei])al work at Canton. In 1834
Rev. Robert Stewart, who in a vigorous old age is still engaged in
the work of the ministry in this State, becanu' Pastor.
In September, 1838, a document appears rich with the savor of
the times, as follows :
"Whereas, Our Church has become largo, and infected with some of the
prevailing heresies and disorders of the times, ^vhi(■ll are niiiintoined and ])rac-
ticed in our midst; and whereas, errors are tanizlit and received which are at
variance witli tlie Bil)le and our Confession nf Faith, and ))ersons are received
to membership from other denouiinatii>ns with all tlieir prcjuilices alive
against our doctrines and order, and without l)eing refpiired to renounce them ;
and whereas, these disorders are Ijcconung every day more glaring and l)are-
faced, and our Church as a body has virtually rejected its own systen of iloc-
trines and order; therefore,
" Resohrri, That we, the undersigned. Elders and members of this ( 'Inu-cb, will
continue to revere and maintain tiie doctrines and order of our ('liutcii in this
place as the Presbyterian Ciiurch."
This document, which is not found upon the records of the Church
whose history we are now giving, was signed by 2 elders and 18
members. Here was the point of division of the Canton Presby-
terian Church. From it two Churches sprang, the New School Pres-
byterian, now tiie Congregational, and the Old School Presbyterian,
both of which claim t<» be the original Church. In the sj)ring of
1844 the church jjroperty was amicably divided between the two or-
ganizations. In January, 1841, a committee was a})pointed to draft
a plan for re-organizing this Church. In February the report
was read, received, and withdrawn upon permission. March 27 a
constitution for a new organization was otl'crcd. It was amended
and adopted A])ril (j. The name of the New School Presbyterian
Church of Canton was then given it. May 22, 1841, Rev. L. Spen-
cer began his labors with the Church. At a meeting held Jan. 29,
1842, it was voted " that a committee be appointed to draft a con-
stitution and rules for organizing a Congregational Church." The
committee reported February 4th, and the report was adoi)ted.
In April, 1857, a surplus of funds for the current expenses of the
Church was reported and the salary of th(> jiastor was raised from
$600 to §800. It was determined to build a new house of worship.
A cash subscription of >^(j,000 had been secured for this purpose;
the foundation had been laid and the building being erected, when
the financial crash of 18r)7 shattered the plans of the building com-
mittee. Thev were obli<red to borrow monev to iinish the basement,
which was entered for worship Jan. 1, 1858.
534 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
At an aniuKil tnc'ttin<i' in 1.SG4 the records state as follows: "The
Presbyterian C'hiiroh havino; apj^ointecl a committee to confer with
a like committee of" the C'oiigretrational ('hiirch on the subject of the
union of the two Cluirehes, Rc.ho/ red , That we entertain tlie ])ro-
position and a])j)()int J. H. Ross, J. AV. lufjersoil, F. ]Mc('ut('hen,
S. Brown and 1). \V. A^ittuni as that committee." The committee
subsequently reported that the two committees had agreed upon a
formula of doctrine for the united Church and upon a basis of union.
The report was acceptcnl and the powers of the committee enlarged,
to carry out the financial arrangements preparatory to the union.
The new Church was to take the name of the Presbyterian Church
of Canton. The church organized with a session, was to stand inde-
})endent for two years, after which time a vote would be taken to
decide with which of the two General Assemblies they would con-
nect. Failing of a two-thirds vote in favor of foreign ecclesiastical
connection, the Church continued independent ; but as often as once
a year a vote w'as to be taken until by a two-thirds vote the eccle-
siastical relations of the Church were detonnincd. The incumbrance
upon the property of the Congregational Church was to be removed
and the Presbyterian portion of the united Church was to complete
the building. Such harmony and interest i)revailed in th^ Church
committees and such the api)arent tide of j^opular feeling in both
Churches that the union was considered an accomplished fact. ^Vhen
the committees' plan of union was prepared for popuhir action in the
two Churches, a very small and implacable minority, originally
Congregationalists, gave their votes against it in this Church, and
in the Presl)yterian Church a majority of three was against it. Thus
the measure fell through.
In 1805 the Pastor presented his resignation. The gloom of this
period was intense. Arrears in current expenses to the amount of
$400 was found and the permangnt debt rolling up its interest for
years. Rev, Henry Mills was invited to visit the Church and a
temporary engagement was made, Karly in LSGG a serious ellbrt
was made to remove the Church debt, which amounted to $11,500.
This was all relinquished and the edifice was completed, and on the
loth of the following January, when it wa> dedicated, all the indebt-
edness had been j)aid and 825 in the treasury. There had been
raised for all jmrj)oses, including the relin(|uishment of claims,
1^20,851 ,(><). This Church edifice is a fine structure, with 500 sittings
in the main audience room, and the lecture and prayer rooms below.
Mr. Mills left the services of the Church in October, 18(36, when
Rev. Henry liates was called as supply, and Aug. 15, 1807, he be-
came Pastor. He continued to serve the Church until Jan. 19, 1879.
May 1, 1879 Rev. Henry Mills was recalled as Pastor. The mem-
bershij) is 10(5. In the Sunday-schools are 180 scholars. Total
contributions for Church purj)()ses 82,271.30. /The record of this
Church upon the reforms of the period has been very honorable.
The session of the original Presbyterian Church held July 4, 1830,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 535
passed a resolution ujion the use of distilled spirits -svhich takes tlie
mostadvaneed position. At a meeting April 4, 1848, seven resolutions
were passed on the subjeet of slavery, Avhieh by word and emphasis
evinces a deep anxiety to be rid of all shadow of resj)onsibilitv for
the hateful system. About a vear after the oro-nnization of the Ton-
gregational Church avc find it called together to rej)U(liate and de-
nounce as sfea//H/7, acts which had ])revi()usly been tolerated, justi-
fied and even performed by men of Christian ]n"ofession and stand-
ing. This was the taking of timber from lands of non-residents,
the apology being that such owners ought, if not willingly then un-
willingly, to share the burthen of the settlement of this country, by
which their land actpiired value. The resolutions were short and
crisp. There is something of the challenge in them, for in a period
of excitement it M-as ])0j)ularly charged that the Congregational
Church had stolen timber in their house of worshij). The truth is,
the material was furnished and this church erected by contract, and
an insignificant sub-contract was filled with stolen tind)er; but fi)r
this the Church had no responsibility.
Baptid Church. — The germ of this ( "Inircii bears an earlier date
than any other in the Illinois River Bai)tist Association. On the
14th day of June, 1833, a council was called at the house of William
Spencer, in Banner township. Elders John Logan and Gardiner
Bartlett were present and a Church of four members was consti-
tuted.* These members were Elder John Clark and William Spencer,
Anna Clark and Kachel Spencer, and the Church was called the
United Baptist Ciiurch of Duck Creek. The meetings of the Church
were held in private houses until July, 1837, when it asssumed
the name of the Canton church. It then mnnbered 37 mend)ers.
During that year it was dismissed from the Salem Association and
united with the Illinois River Association. Previous to this they
were supjilied with preaching oidy part ofthe time. In November
of the same year, Elder G. B. Perry became Pastor, and continued
in that relation f )r 3 years. During the first two years they met at
times at the Methodist church and at other times in j)rivate
houses, and again in the college edifice, whicii was subsequently de-
molished by a severe storm. Their first house of worship was dedi-
cated on the fourth Sunday of October, 18;')i). It cost about §],")()(),
and \\;as at the time the best house of worship in the Military Tract.
Elder Isaac Newell became Pastor of the Church Nov. 11, 1840,
and closed his labors here in November, 1843. Elder Isaac Mer-
riam preached as a supply for three months. In July, 1844, Elder
Alba Gross became the Pastor, and June 7, 184<), resigned. The
Church had no Pastor from this time till June, 1847, when Elder
■*It is claimeil by some that Isanc <". Johnson, Phoebo (Dean) Johnson,
James Spencer, Rachel Spencer, Elder West, Mrs. West ami Mrs P.reeil i)an(le(l
themselves together an<l constitnted the first P>aptist Church of Canton ; fol-
der West l)eing the first preaclier, and that the first meetings were held in his
house. This must have occurred in the fall of 1835 or '36.
536 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Erastus Miner became Pastor. He closed the Pastorate March 26,
1848. Elder Simon G. Miner was the next Pastor, commencing
his Uibors Xov. 20, 1848. Their meeting-house soon became too
small and measures were taken to build a more commodious struc-
ture. Their present editice was comjileted in February, lHo',>, at a
cost of §1 3,000. It is 55 by 87 feet in size, with a basement 11
feet high, containing a lecture room and other smaller rooms. The
old structure stood up(»n ground just to the rear of the present
building, and is now the Catholic Ciiurch. Elder H. G. Weston
preached the dedicatory sermon in February, 1853. The member-
ship in 1851 was 453; in 1857 it had increased to 526.
Elder Miner served the Church as a Pastor until Dec. 22, 1860,
with the exception of one year from Oct. 30, 1858. Elder A. B.
Bolton began his labors as Pastor Aug. 18, 1861, and continued till
Aug., 1864, where he resigned. In March, 1865, Elder AV. R. Webb
accepted the position and served until Oct, 1, 1870. Elder D. H.
Cooley entered upon the pastorate of the Church Jan. 1, 1871.
First Xew Jerusalem Ciiiirch {'^iredenhorf/iati) was organized as
earlv as 1840. Amongthe original members were John F. Randolj)h
and family, Jonas Rawalt and family, G. G. Trites and family and
Chas. Barnard. The congregation first worshiped in an old foundry
building that stood northwest of the Scpiare one block. Then for
one or two years they worshiped in an old church building which
stands near the Presbyterian Church. They then ])urchaseda frame
carpenter shop which stood two blocks east of the Scjuare and fitted
it up and worshiped there until 1876, when they erected their new
editice on East Union street three blocks east of the Square. This
is perhajis the finest church structure in the county. It is built of
red brick and trimmed with ]Slilwaukee ])ressed brick, and was
erected at a cost of between S4,000 and §5,000. The jiresent mem-
shi]) number about 50. The Trustees are G. G. Trites, Jonas
Rawalt and Theodore I^arnard. The Pastor is Rev. L. O. Barler,
of Chicago. The Pastors who have served the congregation are,
first. Rev. I). .1. R. Hihbard, then Dr. James L. Millrose, Revs.
Preston, Bartell and Dr. G. X. Smith.
T^nifed Brethren (Viurch. — This Church was organized May 1,
1869, with 60 members, under the ministration of Rev. James
Wornnoni ; Trustees — E. B. Parvin, W. B. Shinn, and J.J. Baugh-
man. They met then in the old Protestant Methodist church build-
ing; now they meet in a neat building which fi>rnu'rly belonged to
the Presbvterians, and which thcv spent 8525 in fixing up. Pres-
ent Trustees— H. S. Ronk, P. Wages and J. Shields; Pastor, Rev.
T. Smith; present membership 70; annual contribution S800 ;
Church in a more prosperous condition than it has ever been. Sun-
day-scho(d attendance, 40; J. l*richard, Superintendent.
Episcopcd Methodist. — This i)eoj)le, known also as the Southern
Methodists, have a large brick church building in this city. It
stands one block from the northeast corner of the Square and was
,.\
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fOECEASEDj
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CANTON
Ub',\AhY
Of" THE
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HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 539
erected in 186G or '67. Rov. Gilniore is Pastor and resides in the
p:irson:\o:o j.nst west of the })iiil(lini>;. The (•ono;rc(2:ation was oro;an-
ized (hiring the war by nuMnl)ers of the MetluxHst Episcopal Church
who were dissatisfied with the strong war sentiment generally
vailing among that ])eoj)lc.
Lutheran Chnrch. — The C*anton congregation is at present not in
a prosperous condition. They employ no regular Pastor. Their
church edifice, a large frame, stands a few doors from the southwest
corner of the Square.
Chrisfidji C/iiircJi. — The Christian Church at Canton was estab-
lished Feb. 17, 187S, and has a mcmbershiji of ()2. The place of
meeting is at the old Jjutheran church on Elm street, and the time
11a. m. and 8 p. m. Elders, H. E. Puette and D. Auld ; Deacons,
Preston Sebree and Sam'l Smith ; Treasurer, Prof. J. Hiller; Clerk,
Sam'l Smith. Sunday School 9 :30 A. M. ; Sam'l Smith, Su])t.
Cafhollc Chitrch. — The Roman Catholics of Canton have a church,
which is located in the eastern part of the city. The Church
is at present in a prosperous condition and has as members some of
the leading citizens of the citv.
NORRIS.
The little village of Norris is upon the northeast quarter of sec-
tion 8 of this townshij). It is upon the Canton and Farmington
township line, and is surrounded by as fine farming community as
the county can boast of; but being so near Canton its trade can
never assume any great pro])ortions.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
As a country grows older the more interesting and valuable is its
biographical history, and not only so, but the best writers of the
country are advocating the more general reading of this class of
literature by tlie young, believing it to exert a b(>ttcr influence upon
them than any other (dass of the literature of the day. With these
thoughts in view and in justice to the veterans who have made this
townshij) and city what it is we append brief personal sketches of
many of them. Nor do we forget those who to-day are actively en-
gaged in life's labors.
Daniel Ahhoff, State's Attorney, was born in Eulton Co., May
21, 1838. He was educated at the Farmington schools and I^om-
bard University, Galesburg, III. He commenced his legal studies
in 1859, and read law two and a half years. He was aduiitted to
the Bar in January, 18(5(3, and l)egan the practice of his profession
at Canton in ^Slarch of that year. He has served as Mayor of Can-
ton for two terms, City Attorney, Alderman, etc., and has been
State's Attorney since 1872, having been re-elected in 1876. He
fills this office with the ability that has so uniforndy characterized
the gentlemen who have filled the position from the time Hon.
33
540 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Thomas Ford was appointed. As an official, a leading lawyer and
a representative citizen, we give Mr. Abbott's ])ortrait in this vol-
ume.
Jacob Abbott, attorney, was born in Farniington township, Fulton
Co., 111., April 1, 1850. During his boyhood he had the advan-
tages of the country schools only, and at the age of 19 attended the
Canton high school 0 months. In jNIarch, 1872, he began his legal
studies with his brother, Daniel Abbott, in whose office he read
law for three years, teaching school each alternate six months.
At the spring election of 1875 he was elected Justice of the Peace;
was re-elected in 1877 for 4 years, and also elected City Clerk of
Canton. He was admitted to the Bar July 4, 1876. " Dec. 20,
1876, he was united in marriage with Miss Sarah A. Lawrence, of
Canton, and daughter of Wm. and Sarah (Coleman) Lawrence.
William, born March 30, 1878, is their only child.
John Bangs Allen, lumber dealer, is a native of Enfield, Mass.,
where he was born Oct. 3, 1825. His parents, John and Anna
(Bangs) Allen, moved to Fredonia, N. Y., in 1834, and to Ohio in
1836. The subject of this sketch learned the carpenter's trade, the
vocation of his father, and in 1846 came to Canton, and has been
identified with the carpentering, building and lumber business of
Canton to the ])resent time. In 1860 he formed a partnership with
James H. Murphy, to do a general carpenter and bnilding business,
and they have put up many fine buildings in this city. In 1862 the
firm opened a lumber yard, and they received the first car of lumber
shipped to Canton over the C, B. <S: Q. railroad. The firm was
dissolved in 1872, Mr. Murphy retiring. ]\Ir. A. was married in
1851 to Sarah A. K. Dunlaj), and has a family of 5 children.
Stephen Alward, deceased, was a native of Somerset Co., N. J.
In 1823 moved to Crawford Co., Pa., and Aug. 22, 1836, came to
Illinois with his wife and 4 children, — Sarah, Esther, Benj. and
Phoebe. He first located in Canton and followed farming. In
1848 he went to live with his son Benjamin, where he resided till
his death in 1855. His wife died in 1875. Her maiden name was
Joanna Pool. Benjamin Alward married, in March, 185(5, Eliza Hol-
comb, of Peoria Co. They have 10 children living, whose names
are: Harry J., Ida, Elizabeth, Frank, George, Charles, Guy H.,
Grace J., Carrie L. and Mabel I. II is eldest son, John H., died in
1873, at the age of 17. Mr. H. has a fine farm of 260 acres. He
built the first store-house at Norris, and carried on the stock and
grain bnsiness and general store there for five years.
Henry V. Andrews was born in Madison Co., O., June 16, 1815,
and is son of Luman and Elizabeth (Clarke) Andrews, who came to
Illinois in Ang., 1820, and located on Farm creek, Tazewell Co.
Both his parents died at Fort Clark, now Peoria, in 1822. His
mother was well and remarked that she wonld die within 3 days,
and sure enough ere the expiration of that time was a corpse. Her
husband never spoke after learning of her death, and he died within
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 541
5 weeks. Thus in a wild ecnmtrv were 3 skirls and a boy left fath-
erless and motherless. Of them our subject is the only one now
living. He went to live with his sister, Mrs. D. W. Barnes. Many
were the hardships experienced by Mr. A. and he undoubtedly has
the most vivid memory of early life here of any man in this county.
He was married to Sarah Shane Feb. 25, 1840, in Peoria Co. She
is daughter of James Shane. They have a family of 8 children liv-
ing, and 2 dead. Hervey lives in Peoria, Elizabeth, Kate, deceased,
Irene, David, deceased, George, xVbner, Frank, Sadie, C'orwin. Mr.
A. lives upon sec. 16. He is the oldest settler residing in the tp.,
having located here in 1822 with David W. Barnes.
A. C Babcoch, of Canton, is one of the prominent and representa-
tive men of the city. He is an active politician and has been chair-
man of the Republican State Central Committee, and one of the
best campaign managers of the State.
William Babcock, sen., Avas born in New York July 15, 1823, and
came to Canton in 1844, bringing a large stock of goods, and en-
gaged in mercantile business for some years. He built the first mill
and distillery in Canton, which were at that time the largest and best
in the State. The business w^as conducted in the name of "A.
Babcock." Mr. B. also became engaged in farming and raising
stock, especially horses. He has the celebrated trotting horses, Gov.
Sprague and Kate Sprague. He has been a large land-owner, hav-
ing iield 22,00(1 acres at one time. He has now 4,000 acres under
cuhivation. He married Miss Elizabeth A. Kinsey, a native of
Ohio, in 1851. They have had 0 children: Chas.\4., Wm. B.,
Anna Watkins, Elizabeth, Frank, deceased, and Joim S.
Geo. T. Jhiriinrd, farmer, sec. 30, is a son of Theodore and Sarena
(Trites) Banuird, and was born in this township in 1846. In 1869
he married Nannie Brout, of Canton tp. His fother was born in
Troy, N. Y., in 1812, and came to this county with his father, The-
odore Barnard, sr., in 1835, who settled on sec. 31, Canton tj). He
was a widower with 4 children : Jane, Harriet, Theodore, and Mary.
He lived on this ])lace till his death, in 1861, at the age of 83 years.
His son, Theodore, now lives on the old homestead.
James H. Bans, of the firm of James II. Bass & Bro., dealers in
hardware and agricultural implements. This business was estab-
lished in 1868 by Jas. H. Bass & Co., dealing principally in hard-
ware and stoves. In 1874 the present firm was formed, and does
an extensive business in haidware and agricultural implements of
all kinds, mostly of the ^Nloline manufacture. That their business
is extensive is shown from their large sales, which average |30,000
to §35,000 ayear. Mr. B. was educated at Canton public schools and
Jubilee College, Peoria Co. He is a native of this county, having been
born here in 1843.
Michael Baijlor, deceased, father of Isaac Baylor, was a native of
New Jersey. He and his wife, Ann Lyda, came to this county in
1846, and resided on a farm just south of Canton for 20 years. They
542 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
brought a large family ot'cliiklren whose name.sare -.Margaret, Isaac,
John, George, Washington, Elizabeth, James, and Isaiah. The last
mentioned died (juite young; the others are all living in this county.
Isaac Bavlor married Mary Ann Wise, of New Jersey; she died in
Nov., 1859, leaving two children, — Kmma and (ieorge W. Two of
his brothers, Washington and James, are living with him. Three of
the sons of Michael Baylor served in the army during the Kebellion.
AVashington served 3 years in the 103d 111. Inf. The regiment was
in 23 battles, including Sherman's march, and he was in all except
one, and never received but one slight wound. James served in the
51st 111. Inf. one year, mostly in Texas. George was also in the
army and very severely wounded, from the effects of which he has
not recovered, and probably never will He lives at Guba.
/. G. Bidamon, Postmaster at Ganton, was born at Hillsborough,
O., Oct., 1<S47; was brought to Ganton when one year old and has
remained here ever since. He was a})])ointed Postmaster in 1870,
and holds the office at present. His father, Ghristian Bidamon, was
born in Virginia and came to Ganton in 1847; he was Townshij)
GoUector for a number of years, and was appointed Postmaster by
President Lincoln in 1861. He died in 1870 and was succeeded by
his son.
John Blackadore, saddler and harness manufacturer, is a native of
the Gounty Antrim, Ireland, and came to the Gnited States with
his parents in 1821, who loeatcd on a farm G miles from Pittsburg,
Pa., where he lived nntil 1829, when he began to learn his trade at
Pittsburg and worked till '34. He carried on his business m
Sharpsburgh, Ky., for 8 years, and in 1842 came to Illinois, and
located at Ganton July' 2, 184;>. He bought the stock of Mr.
Hatchee, then carrying on a saddle and harness shop, and has con-
tinued in business at the same stand since. He built the first brick
store or shop in Ganton, which was burnt in 1868 and rebuilt on a
larger scale the same year. Again, July 25, 1878, his building was
burnt, and again he rebuilt the same year. Mr. B.'s parents were
George and Mary (Alexander) I51ackadore. He was married in 1848
to Elizabeth Ferguson, mIio has borne 5 children. Mary H, Geo.
F., John L., all living, and Almira J. and Emma E., deceased.
//. G, I)()/fott, boot and shoe dealer, was born at New Gastle-on-
Tyne, Eng., in 1837; came to Pennsylvania in 1842, and to Gan-
ton in 1860, bringing a stock of boots and shoes, and established
himself on the northeast corner of the Square where he r(>mained
for 12 years, since which time he has been in his present location,
on the east side of the S(juarc. He has been successful and has
.sold as hicrh as §45,000 worth of boots and .shoes in a vear. This
was nearly the first, if not the first, exclusive boot and shoe store
in C^anton.
I)r. ir. 7). Bolton was born in England in 1826; came to the U.
S. in 1844 and to Ganton in 1861, and was Pastor of the Baptist
Ghurch from 1861 to '65, but practiced medicine during that period
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 543
and to the present time. His father, John Bolton, came to Canton
with a family of 4 boys and 1 girl, whose names are: W. B., John
C, practicing medicine in Peoria, H. C. and J. B., both in the shoe
bnsiness in Canton. His father now resides at Cuba.
kSaiiiKel Brc'dslci/, miller, was born in Trenton, X. J., March 15,
1813. He was united in marriage with Miss jNIaria V. Conover,
grand-daughter of Dr. Henry Vandever, of New Jersey, on the
3()th of Jan., 1833. Seven cliildrcn have been born to them, 4 of
whom are now living. He commenced the milling l)usiness at
Pekin in Jan., 18(j2, removed to Canton in 186G, and now owns the
large flour-mills of this city. He lost one son in the army during
the Rebellion.
William Henry Broicn. — Snmucl Brown and Lois Buswell, his
WMfe, came to this county in June, 1839, and located on sec. 29,
Canton township. Mr. B. was a native of Winchendon, Mass., and
was born Jan. 14, 1804, and died July 29, 1872; his father was
Asaph, son of Samuel Brown. It is a very old family, dating back
in the histoty of America jirior to 1700. His wife's ])arcnts were
John and liebecca (DeMary) Buswell, the former a son of Samuel
Buswell, who came to this country in the Mayflower. Samuel Brown,
who came to this country in 1837, had a fiimily of 5 children : Lucia
M. married Henry R. Turpin and lives at Prairie City, 111. ; L. R.
lives at the old homestead; Mary A. died in 1856; Geo. S. died in
185(3, and Wm. H., the name that heads this sketch, now owns and
lives at the old homestead. His mother is living with him at the
age of 78 years.
Elijah A. Capps was born in Lassiter Precinct, Randolj)!! Co., N.
C, in 1797. His parents were Dempsey and Sarah (Pool) Capps,
who moved to Ohio in 1801, where they lived till 1838, the year
the subject came to this county bringing both his parents, who are
now deceased. He settled on a farm in Buckheart township where
he lived till I860, when he moved to Canton. He was married in
Highland Co., O., in 1823, to Rebecca Walter of Grayson Co., Va.,
who is still living at the ripe old age of 85. Mr. C. has held about
all the local offices, and has been a member of the Methodist Church
for 66 vears. His wife has also been a member for many years.
Their family consisted of 7 children, 5 of whom are living, — James
C, Sarah J., Elizabeth R., Lettice L., deceased, Martha Ann, de-
ceased, MaryE. and Maria A.
Bc))jaiain F. iliainherx, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 1 ; P. O.,
Norris ; was born Oct. 21, 183:5 ; is a native of Monmouth Co., N.J.
He came to this county in May, 18(56, and located on sec. 1, and
first lived in a log house, but the next fall built the commodious
frame in which he now resdes. His parents were Benjamin and
Paulina (Anderson) Chambers, of New Jersey, both deceased ; the
former died in Illinois in 1875, the mother in New Jersey in 1843.
Mr. C. was united in marriage, March 1,1872, with Eleanor Strick-
land, of Ocean Co., N. J., and daughter of Barkalow and Abigail
544 HISTORY OF FULTON COrXTY.
(Bennett) Striekland. They have a family of o eliildren : Florence,
Frankie Ella, Elliott Augustine, Walter B., Lula May. They also
have a ne|)hew, Wni. Franklin Cook, living with them, who came
from New Jersey in Nov., 1878. They have lost '2 chiklren since
coming to the countv : Harrv and Stella, who died in infancv.
C/iarles B. Churchi//, jr., i\ native of Oneida Co., N. Y., came
to this county in 1837, bringing with him his father, mother and 4
brothers, and located on a iarm in Putman tp. In 1842 bought a
farm on sec. 32, Canton tp., and partly broke the land and raised
crops; there was no house on the })lace, and he tented it while
attending his crops. In 1845 he went to South Carolina, Georgia,
and other Southern States, engaged in trade; was in Florida <luring
the Florida war; returned from the South in 1850 and married that
year Miss Louisa Hurlburt and moved on his farm. They have 3
daui:;hters and one son. The Churchills are a verv old familv.
Samuel Churchill lived in Westerfield, Hartford Co., over £C0 years
ago. A large brick house built at that time is still standing in good
condition. Capt. Charles Churchill was a son of Samuel and a
Captain in the Continental army. Levi Avas a son of Charles and
held a Captain's commission under Washington during the Revo-
lution. Charles B. Churchill was son of Charles, who served in the
war of 1812. Chas. B.,jr., the subject of this sketch, is son of
Chas. B. The Churchills are deeondants in a direct line from an
Enu;lish duke bv the name of John Churchill. Chas. B. died at
his son's, C. B., jr., Sept. 17, 1878, at the age of 93.
Dr. A. B. Clough was born in Vermont in 1828 ; went to ^fassa-
chusetts in 1843, to New York City in '4f>, and came to Illinois in
'55 He was educated in Vermont and began the practice of med-
icine in '63 as an allopathist and continued to practice that system
until 8 years ago, when, having made a study of homeopathy, he
adopted that system.
A. L. Coleman was born Sept. 2, 1821, and came with his father,
John Coleman, from New Jcrsev. He rememl)crs when Lidians
were numerous through this section. They used to come to his
father to have blacksmithing done. The Indian trails were the on-
ly paths leading to Galena and Peoria, then called Ft. Clark. The
first boat he remembers on the Illinois was the Shingle-Weaver,
which made shingles as it went alou":. He was married to Miss Marv
Fiddler, a native of Ohio. Elizabeth, Geo. F. and Josephine are
the children who have been born to them.
Henri/ S. Co.s"/<'/-, deceased. Mr. C. was born in 1S31 in Mont-
gomery Co., O., and was the son of Lewis and Elizabeth (Dom-
bough) Cosier. He came to Douglas Co., HI., in 1854, and this
county in 18(58. He mirried R?becca Steele, of Ohio, at Dayton, in
Sej)t., 54. He died June 15, 1879, at hi>: home in Norris. halving a
widow and 5 children. The children's names are : John B., Rosetta,
Florence A'ictoria, Lillie ^lay and Ulysses S. Mr. C. was promi-
nent in Sunday -school matters and devoted much time to this good
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 545
cause. For 5 years he was Superintendent of the school held at
Curtis' school-house, and of the Cottonwood school 2 y«ears. He
and his wife were members of the same church all their lives, and
during the last few years, of the M. E. Church.
Robert a Calton was born in IMarysville, Tenn., Feb. 13, 1804,
and his parents moved to Lexington, Ky., when he was but 4 years
of age. He served an apprenticeship at blacksmithing in Kentucky,
but owing to the evils of slavery, sought a free State. In 1823 he
opened a shop in Indiana, and in 183(> came to Canton. Desirous
of starting a blacksmith shop here he began looking around, either
to buy an established business or start a new one. At that time
there were 5 shops in town, and he noticed that all of them except
one kept a jug of whisky on the bench free to customers. In
Ira Baker's shop nothing of that kind was kept. This made a fav-
orable imjiression upon Mr. C. ; so he bought him out. Besides
blacksmithing he erected the following year a building suitable for
wool-carding, carrying on this business till '52, customers coming
from the Mississippi river, Springfield, etc., to have wool carded.
Mr. C. has been identified with the business of Canton for 43 years.
He has always been a strict temperance man. He united with the
Presbyterian church, Aug. 26,, 1823, and has been a consistent mem-
ber since, serving as Elder for 38 years. He was married July 18,
1823, at Livonia, Ind., to Ary A. Ferguson, who died in June, 1845.
He married again at Canton Mrs, Eliza (Campbell) llawalt, de-
ceased. He married his present wife, Mrs. Mary P. Lamond, in
1856. She was formerly Miss Kelsey, and a native of Thomaston,
Maine.
Lathi'op Willis CffrZ/.s-, deceased, was l)orn in Hanover, N. H., Jan.
9, 1800, and died March 25, 1879. His father was Joseph Curtis,
of Mansfield, Ct., and was a Lieutenant in the Revolutionary war;
his mother, Saraii (Danis) Curtis, was a native of New Hampshire.
Mr. C. came to tiiis county Dec. 10/32. He was a physician and
practiced here for several years, but the necessarily long rides of a
physician's practice in a new country, exposure, etc., ruined his
health, when he partially discontinued his practice and engaged in
farming. He was married at Hanover, N. H., April 3, 1826, to
Louisa Wright, daughter of Royal and Diantha (Martin) Wright,
of Connecticut. Mr. and Mrs. C. had a family of 9 children, 6 of
whom are living, — Samuel M., Mary Perry, Royal Joseph, Lucy
M., Chas. W. and Amelia Annette. S. M.and R. J. live at Panora,
Iowa. Mary P. is the wife of Marshall Pittman, Bridgeville, N. J.
Lucy M., wife of Rev. Wm. Watson, Amelia A., wife of Samuel
Lommason, of Ringgold Co., Iowa; Chas. Wright is carrying on the
homestead farm. He married Emelinc Stout in Jan., 1876. They
have two ciiildrcn, — Lydia Louisa and Margaretta May. Mrs. C.
lives at the homestead farm near Norris.
Peter Y. Custer was born in Pennsylvania in 1818, where the
family had lived for several generations. He came to Fulton Co.
546 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
in the s]>King of 18.")7, wluTi' lie has .since engaged in farming. He
jnarried Miss Hannah Alhright and has a familv of 6 ehildren.
Peter Da'dij was born in the Parish of Kilskyre, County of Meath,
Irehind, in 18'2G, and is the son of Gerald and Frances (Flo(»d)
Daily, who came to the U. S. in 1853. Peter first came to this
county in 185G and located at Canton, and erected a brick building
the same fall. He had learned the bricklaying and mason trade in
New Jersey, and has followed that business in connection with con-
tracting and building extensively in Canton, putting up no less than
43 buildings, including the opera house, whicli he owns, and also
owns 9 dwellings besides the fine one in which he resides, which is
one of the most attractive jilaces in the county. He owns several
farms in this county and also in Texas, Kansas and Nebraska,
all of which he has accumulated by his own personal exertions. He
was married in New Jersey in 1854 to Ann ^IcGinnis, who died in
1868, leaving a family of 2 children, — Joseph and Gerald. He
married his present wife, Johanna McMahon, in 1872, by whom he
has 3 children, — Elizabeth J., Mary F. and Agnes A.
William 0. Dean, manufacturer of cigars. Mr. D. was l)orn in
Huntingdon Co., Pa., Sept. 12, 1844, and came to this county in
1856. His present business w^as established in 1869 by G. M. Arm-
strong and himself under the firm name of Dean & Armstrong, and
remained the same until Jan., 1879, when Mr. D. bought out his
partner's interest. There are employed in the exclusive manufac-
ture of cigars in this extensive establishment some 25 to 30 hands,
6 of whom are females. He turns out annuallv 1,200,000 to 1,500,-
000 cigars, the value of which is from 840,000 to 850,000.
C. C. Deveij was born in Hanover, X. H., August 9, 1826. His
father, Oliver Dewey, came to Canton in the fall of 1832. Mr. D.
entered business with his brother, R. W., with a stock of dry-goods
and general merchandise in 1849, and continued till 1870, when the
partnership was dissolved, Mr. C. C. continuing business until 1874,
when he sold out.
Edward Page Deicey, one of the old settlers of the county, was
born in Hanover, N. H., Feb. 4, 1817. His parents, Oliver Dewey
and Jeminui Dewey, nee Wright, came to the county in 1832. Mr.
D. was married at the age of 25, and 3 years later moved upon an
80-acre farm on sec. 11 of this township where he resided till 1856 ;
then he moved into Canton, where he continues to reside. ^Ir.
Dewey's wife's maiden name was Anna Maria Shinn. They were
married Sept. 1, 1842. The following are the names of their chil-
dren : RoswcU W ., Sarah P., Chas. Arthur and Eliza Maria. Har-
riet Henriette, the eldest, died at the age of 11, and Stephen, an
infant, also dead.
Boswcll W. Drtrei/, of the dry-goods firm of A. AV. Dewey & Co.,
Canton. Mr. D., who is one of the t)ldest merchants in the city,
was born in Hanover, X. H., in 1824, and was brought to Canton
in the fall of 1832 by his parents, Oliver and Jemima (AVright)
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 547
Dewey. His father was a carpenter by trade, but followed farming,
and until Roswell was 15 years of age was raised upon the farm.
At that time he came to Canton to attend school, then went to clerk-
ing for his uncle, Joel Wright, in a general store. In 184S) he went
into business with his brother under the firm name of R. W. & C.
C Dewey, Joel Wright being a silent partner until '55, and the
firm continued under that name till 1870, when R. W. retired from
business. In October, 1874, he again embarked in business with
his son Alfred W. In 1849 he married Miss Sarah E. Shinn,
daughter of Isaac and Maria Shinn, of Harrison county, Va. Their
children are: Alfred W., Maria J., Francis H., M. Addie and Har-
riet V.
B. ir. Dewey, of the firm of Dewey & Divilbiss, dealers in dry-
goods, hats, caps, etc., was born in Canton in 1845. His parents
are Edwin Page and Anna M. (Shinn) Dewey, the former a native
of Hanover, N. H., and his mother of W. Ya. He received his
education at the Canton schools and at Hedding College, Abingdon,
111. He was united in marriage with JNIiss Clara L., daughter of
Thomas L. Porter, of Mt. Pleasant, Iowa, March 15, 1876. Mr.
D. enlisted in 1864 in the lo4th 111. Inf., Co. H, serving in Kentucky
and Missouri.
Uriah W. Dickson was born in 1818, in Nelson Co., Va. His
parents, John and Nancy (Woods) Dickson, were both natives of
the Old Dominion, where they both died. jNIr. D. came to Illinois
in 1838, located at Galena and engaged in the lead mines. He
came to this county in 1842 and settled in Deerfield township, and
farmed until a few vears ago, when he retired from active labor. He
was married to Ruth Ann Mills in 1842. She died in 1864, leav-
ing 2 children, — Enoch M. and Jacob M. He married again, this
time to Laura A. Williams. Mr, D. was Supervisor for Deerfield
for 14 years, School Treasurer 12 years, and filled all other offices
except Collector. He never was sued in his life, but sued the C, B.
& Q. R. R. Co. He and his wife were greatly injured by a team of
horses running away with them, which were frightened by an en-
gine. He sued the company and recovered $8,000, after 8 years'
litigation. At first he offered to take $3,000.
James U. Dirilhiss, of the dry-goods firm of Dewey & Divilbiss,
is a sou of William and Evaliue (Feidt) Divilbiss, of Franklin
Co., Pa., the native place of James U. They came to this county
in 1850 and remained until 1873, when they moved to Farmer's
City, 111., where they now reside. In the fall of 1865 Mr. D. en-
tei'ed the store of J. W. Ingersoll as salesman, remained for three
and a half years and accepted the same position in the store of R.
W. & C. C. Dewey. At the ex))irati()n of one year R. W. Dewev
retired from the firm and he remained with C. C.Dewey for 4 years.
In 1874 he formed a partnership with R. W. Dewey under the firm
name of Dewey & Divilbiss, and bought the stock of C. C. Dewey.
The firm has remained the same to the present time, carrying one
548 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
of the largest stock of goods in the county and meeting with general
success.
James Bonn ^' Bro., liardware merchants, gun-makers and dealers.
This firm occupy one of tiie finest store-rooms in Canton, being
181i feet in depth bv 22 feet wide. Ninetv feet in front is stored
with hardware, guns, cutlery, etc., and 91 2- feet in the rear is devoted
to t4\e manufacture of guns. This firm represents one of the im-
port^mt l)usiness interests of Canton. They make a specialty in the
manufacture of the best grade of breach-loading guns after the lat-
est improved models, varying in price from §50 to §250. They
have a reputation second to none in the State in the manufacture of
superior goods. The business was establisiied by James Doun in
April, 1850, in a small building on Main street, north of the Square,
he doing all his own work with n;) power excepting hand. He
occupied tiiis building for 6 years with an average business of §G00
per year. He removed to the west side of the Square and remained
till '67 when he formed a partnership with his brother, AVm. Donn,
jr., and removed to the north side; and in 1872 moved to their
present place on tiie west side, where they do a business of §50,000
per year. The parents? of these gentlemen, ^^ m. and Catharine
(Thompson) Donn, are among the old settlers of Fulton Co. They
were natives of Perth, Scotland. James was born in Lake Co., 111.,
and married Ellen Rawalt in 1871. Ellen is their only child. Wm.
Donn, jr., is a native of Canton and was born in 1849 ; he was mar-
ried Nov. 28, 1878, to Belle Thompson.
Joseph Drake, farmer, see. 29, is a native of Sussex Co., N. J.,
and is the son of Ebenezer and Prudence (Sutton) Drake. Mr.
D. came to this county in 1848, located at Canton and engaged in
merchandising under the firm name of Vittum, Drake & Co. for 6
years, and from 1854 to '61 was engaged in the same business in
Prairie City. During the war was engaged in general trading in
the Southern States. He moved his family to Canton in 1863, and
afterwards engaged in business at Santa Fe, Xew Mexico. He mar-
ried Sarah J. Vittum in 1850 and had a family of 8 children, 5 liv-
ing: A. M., jeweler at Canton ; Martin, Eugene, Stephen A.Doug-
las and Fred are living at the homestead. Mr. D. has been turning
his attention to slieep-feeding, having about 600 to 800 head per
year. In '78 he sold 400 head that averaged 145 pounds. This
lot went to Euroj)e. He is one of the most successful sheep-feeders
in IIlin<»is.
Au(/nxfns Einori/, farmer, is a native of Ringe, Cheshire Co., X.
H., where he was born Sept. 27, 1818. Plis father was Stephen
Emory, son of Stei)hen Emory, of Salem, Mass., whose father came
from England. Tlie grandfather of our subject was a soldier under
Washington and took part in the l)attle of Bunker Hill. His
mother before marriage was P<»lly Ingalls, of Binge, X. H. Mr.
E. came to this county June 3, 1838, and lived with Samuel Brown
for a tim,", and engiged in selling clocks and other goods through
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 549
the conntrv for o years, when (1844) in company with Abel II.
Wliite, he went to Ohio and bonght a flock of 1,.'>00 sheep, which
cost on arrival here 49 cents a head. Jeffrey Maynard owned an
interest in them. Two weeks after arrival White sold his for $1.50
a head. ]\Ir. E. kejit his and has not been out of the sheep busi-
ness since. He married Pamielia Ellis Nov. 1, 1865. Herbert is
their only child. He was born Jan. 21, '(i8.
David Fisher Emry came to this county, bringino; a family of 5
children, Oct. 16, 1834. His children were Zillah, David E., Ma-
tilda, Henry and Amelia. Edith Eisher was his wife. She was
born near Philadelphia, Pa., and was married in the year 1800. jNlr.
E. was of German, and his wife of German— English descent. Their
son David F., who is to-day, as he has been for many years, promi-
nently identified in the history of the county, resides in this town-
ship and is engaged in farming. He is one of the oldest surveyors
in the county, and perhaps none have surveyed more land than he.
He takes especial pains and pride' in preserving statistics, etc., and
had a niost valuable collection in his residence when it took fire
and burned to the ground. The family was away from home at
' the time. He is a pleasing writer, and a gtH)d logician. He is iden-
tified with the Eulton County Eair Association at present.
Samuel Es/ileman, farmer, sec. 5, is a native of Franklin Co., Pa.,
where he was born Jan. 10, 1816; is a son of John and Martha
(Hurst) Eshleman, both natives of Pennsylvania, and of German
descent. Mr. E. came to this county in Ajn'il, 1847, and the fol-
lowing year bought the fiirm on which he now resides. He was
united in marriage with Catherine Defenbaugh in 1843. Mrs. E.
is a daughter of Samuel Defenbaugh, of Lancaster Co., Pa. Mary,
Amanda C, David A., Susan E., Alice, and Annis are their children,
all living. They lost 2 children: Samuel, age 18, and Martha L.,
age 1 year. He has been a member of the Baptist Church for 25
vears.
Hiram FcUoirs, deceased, came to this county as early as 1830.
His son, Harrison P. Fellows, who now resides at Norris, was born
near Watertown, N. Y., in 1816, and has been very prominent in
the affairs of the county. He served in the Black Hawk war.
Thornion H. Flcriiiiu/, M. D., was born at Richmond, Va., in
1811 ; educated at Madison College, Lniontown, Pa., graduating in
1831. He began the >^tudy of medicine with Dr. John B. Phythian,
of that place, and completed his studies with Dr. Thomas H. Fow-
ler, of Belleville, Pa. He j)ractice(l medicine 5 years, then attended
college and graduated from the Ohio ^ledical College, Cincinnati,
in 1835). He came to Fulton Co., in 1854, locating at Liverpool,
and in 1859, came to Canton. He married in June 1846, Mary Ann
Nutt, of Fayette Co., Pa., who bore hira one child, Leroy M.
William I. Gearharf, of Wm. I. Gearhart & Co., furniture deal-
ers. This business was established over 40 years ago by William
Thompson. In 1863 Mr. G. became connected with the business,
550 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
and the following year Mr. Thompson died. Mr. G. then bought
one-halt' interest in the business, of his widow (who was his sister),
and has since conducted the business. Mr. G. first came to this
county in 18;U*. His parents were Jacob and Mary (Whitaker)
Gcarhart, who came to the county at the above date, bringing o
chiklrcn : Elizabeth (Thompson) John F., died in 1874, Angelina
(Siiaifer), Wni. I. and Harriet K (Batchelder). The first 3 that are
living reside in Canton, the otlier in Kansas. Jacob Gearhart, his
father, died in 3 weeks after his arrival in 1839.
William B. Gleamn, merchant, first came to Canton in 1849, re-
maining one year, when, taking the gold fever, he went to Cali-
fornia, where he followed mining and the hotel business at Marys-
ville for some 4 years, and returned to Liverpool, this county, in
1854; clerked in store of W. A. Dickerman tt Co. for a few years
and afterwards occupied the same position in the dry-goods store of
J. H. Stipp & Co., Canton. In 1869 he bought the stock of J. H.
S. & Co., and has continued business since that time on his own ac-
count, and carries one of the largest dry -goods stocks in tiie county.
He served Canton as Mayor two terms ; during the Rebellion was
appointed Draft Commissioner for Fulton Co., but the district being
immediately enlarged to include several counties, Mr. G. declined
the position. ^Ir. (x. organized the fir!<f fire de])artment for Can-
ton ; was ap})ointed chief engineer with power to organize it. It
consisted first of a hook and ladder and bucket companies. He
afterwards bought for the city a hand engine which was used for
manv years. He was born in Northumberland, X. Y., Oct. 23,
1S23, and is tiie son of Hiram and Catharine (Romer) Gleason, of
Saratoga Co., X. Y. He was marrieil to Mary A. Cooper, first, and
since her decease was married to Mrs. Cordie A. Black, who has
borne him one child, Win. jr., born Aj)ril 7, 1879.
Mrs. A. T. Gra/Kiiii was born in Cund)erUind Co., Pa., in 1815,
and came to Canton in tlie spring of 1837. John G. Graham, her
husl)and, was born in Saratoga, X. Y., in 1817, and came to Canton
in l'S3<!. His father was Hiram Graham, of Xew York, and his
motlier was Polly ((ileason) (iraham, from the same county, — Sara-
tov. There were 5 chiklrcn l)orn to John (t. and wife. The eld-
est son, ('has. J., born in 1844, died in '47 ; Klla, died in June, '47 ;
Carrie J., born Aug., 1848 ; Jolin G., born June 16, 1850 ; Alice L.,
July 3, 1854. Mr. Graham was twice elected to the Legislature
and to the State Constitutional Convention. John G. Graham's
father died when he was an infant, and he therefore had to work
his own way. He educated himself and made of life a success.
He came west first as an engineer on the old C, B. <t Q. R. R. He
brought his mother and other members of his family, provided for
them while he lived and left them in afiiuence.
Frederic/: M. (Jrant, of the firm of Barrere & Grant, attorneys,
is a native of Orange, Conn., wiiere he was born in 1838. He re-
ceived an academic education at the Orange Academv and at
IIISTOEY OF FULTON COUNTY. 551
Smith's Grammar School, the latter located at New Haven. He
enlisted as private in Co. F, 12th Conn. Inf., Sept. 18, 1861, and
was promoted 2nd Lient. ; in 1862 was appointed 1st Lieut, by Gen.
B. F. Butler in 4th La. Native Guards, and in 18();5 promoted to
Capt., and starved until Jan. 12, 1866. This regiment sfM'ved in
nearlv all the battles fought in the Department of the (iulf 1862-5
inclusive. The following- morning after the assault on the enemy's
works at Mobile only 9 of Capt. G.'s company were able to report
for duty, the rest either killed or wounded. At the close of the war
Mr. G. located at Knoxville, 111., and read law in the office of Judge
Hannaman and ^Nlirch, 1860, was admitted to the Bar and began to
practice at Galesburg, and was City Attorney during 1870-1. In
Jan., 1873, came to Canton. He was married at New Haven, Conn.,
in 1862, to Miss Grace Willoughby, Geo. B., Edna W. and Clara
L. are their children.
Ccipt. David Hiaake was born in Markham township. Upper
Canada, July 25, 1801. He came to Fort Clark (now Peoria) as
early as 1822 and to this county in 1827, and settled on a farm,
where he resided for 48 years. He has lived in Canton during the
past few years, having partially retired from business. The Cap-
tain participated in the Black Hawk war; M'as at the battle with the
Indians on Rock river in which the militia were defeated. He
received his commission as Captain of the 'V2nd Reg., 111. INIilitia,
from Gov. John Reynolds. It is dated at Yandalia, 111., Aug. 20,
1833, but ranking from April 13. His parents were John and
Hannah (Adams) Haacke, the former of Holland, the latter of New
York city, and a cousin of John Quincy Adams. Ca])t. H. has
been married 4 times. In 1823 he married Margaret Barker, of
Tazewell Co., deceased ; in 183(5 married Sarah Bull, of this county.
She died in 1843. He was again married, this time to Melinda
Edwards, of this county. By this marriage 2 children are living,
Margaret, the wife of Geo. Hohnes, of Stark Co., and Amelia, wife
of Lovel Hamlin, of Canton. He married his [)rcsent wife, Mahala
Louderbaek, April 1, 1851. They have 3 children : Barbara, living
in Stark Co. ; Sarah lives with parents ; and John, of Joshua tj). Mr.
H. is one of the very few early j)ioneers now living, and his ac-
counts of the early times are very interesting, as also those related
by his wife, whose parents came into Schuyler county in 1823.
We give in this volume a portrait of Capt. Haacke.
Jacob H(i)m)n, farmer, sec. 2, was born Nov. 14, 1821, in Fairfield
Co., O., and is a son of Abel Hanson and Nancy Kindall, his wife,
of Virginia. They came to this county in J 848. Abel Hanson
served in the war of 1812, as Corporal. Jacob was married in 1845,
June 17, on sec. 2, Canton tp., to Dorcas L. A. Martin, daughter
of John C. and Delina (Grover) Martin, of New Jersey, who were
early settlers here. They have a funily of 10 children : Wm. H.,
John M., now in Nebraska, Sarah E., Lvdia A., Joseph W., Jacob
G., Samuel Charles, Abel N., James W., Benj. F. Uy. H. has
been School Director for 9 years.
55"2 HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY.
Joseph V. Harriii, M. D., is a native of Beallsville, O., where he
was born Oct. 22, 1839. He received an academic ediu-ation und
began his medical studies with Dr. J. T. McPiicrson, ofFairview,
O., and read with liiin for 3 years, durino; which time he attended
lectures at Starlinji' ^^edical College, Cohuubus, O. He enlisted in
the 65th Ohio Inf Nov. 1, 1861, and was appointed Hospital Stew-
ard, attached to the medical staff, and performed the duties of As-
sistant Surgeon until he was mustered out in July, 1862. He
returned to Ohio and resumed his studies until June, 1865, when
he came to Canton and began the practice of medicine. He attended
Rush Medical College, Chicago, during 1870 and graduated. He
w^as appointed Examining Surgeon of applicants for U. S. pension
by the Presdent in 1870 aud held the j)osition until '75. He mar-
ried Miss Ellen S. Plattenburg, of Canton, in Oct., 1865 and has a
family of 2 children, — Ellen E. and Josej)h P.
John S. Hazen came to the county in 1829, bringing a family of
9 children. Mrs. Hazen, nee Mary Bird, was a native of Sussex Co.,
N. J., as also her husband. They came from New Jersey with a
horse team and were 7 weeks and 8 days on the way. Elisha and
Ziba died single. Susan married Benjamin H. Moore, deceased.
She is still living on the old homestead on sec. 20. Mr. Moore
came to the county with his mother and two brothers, Eugene and
John, in 1837. They both became Baptist ministers. Eugene is
still living. John died, leaving a widow and 4 children. Mr. Moore
was a more than ordinary j)ublic-s])irited man, and took a deep interest
in all educational matters. Benevolent, his hands were always ex-
tended to those less fortunate, but deserving. He was a member and
Deacon of the Baptist Church for 20 years. He left a widow and 1
child, Mary Ann, now the wife of Washington Kandolph.
George Hemenover, farmer, sec. ]5, came to this county in 18-14,
and located on a quarter of section 15, built and lived in a s])lit
log cabin for 2 years, and has lived on this place ever since. He
Avas born in Sussex Co., N. J., near Newton, in 1819, and is the son
of Matthias and Margaret (Boyd) Hemenover. He was united in
marriage with Susan, daughter of Robert Mills, near Newton, N. J.,
Dec. 17, 1843. He brought wife and ouechild Mary, to this county;
other children born here. Amanda, deceased, married John Bell ;
Amos; Surilda ; Emma, wife of Samuel Bovard ; George, deceased,
and Andrew. Both he and his wife united with the liaptist Church
in 1845. His wife died Dec. 22, 1878, and was laid at rest in the
Canton cemet(>ry.
Hon. ir. //. Hemenover, was born in the town of Byron, Sussex
Co., N. J., July 4, 1822, where his father had been a merchant for
many years; was so ready to take an interest in public affairs that
at the early age of twelve years he had acquired the sobriquet of the
" Boy Politician ;" he even made speeches in favor of Democracy ;
between 12 and 20 years of age he learned the printer's trade, in the
office of the Sussex County Herald, was then foreman in the office,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 553
and lastly editor for three years ; next he was proprietor of the
Warren County Journal at Belvidere, N. J,, for 3 years; was elected
Mayor of Belvidere two terms ; then State Printer one term ; then
proprietor of the Hudson Counfij Democrat at Hoboken, N. J., the
leading Denu>cratic paper in Southern New Jersey, and the first ))aper
in the United States to raise the name of James r^)iu'hanan for the
Presidency, — which act was afterwards personally recognized by an
invitation from Mr. Buchanan to meet him and his niece at the
White House. Mr. H. was elected Police Magistrate in Ploboken,
and then a member of the Legislature, overcoming an ojiposing ma-
jority of about 400; again State Printer one term, and then in 18o<S
came west and reported the speeches of Lincoln and Douglas ; being
attracted by this country, he emigrated hither with his familv the
same year and settled on a farm five miles west of Prairie Citv ; in
1860 changed his residence to Fulton count}', where he has been en-
gaged in farming, working a coal mine, merchandising and the hotel
business: he is now proprietor and landlord of the Canton House at
Canton. He was the first to move in getting the C, B. & Q. rail-
road promptly completed.
The Hemenovers are of German ancestry. Anthony Heraenover
came from Moravia, Germany, to America before the Revolution,
gave aid and comfi)rt to the jxitriots at Valley Forge; his son was
George, who married Phoebe A ngcline Allen, a descendant of Ethan
Allen of Ticonderoga fame, and they were the parents of W. H.
The latter, Aug. 24, 1845, married Julia D. Barton, who was born
March (), 1826, in Stockholm, N. J., a daughter of Andrew D. Bar-
ton, a native of Sussex Co., N. J. The Bartons were of Irish
descent. Mr. and Mrs. H. have 6 children living.
Samuel R. Henkle came to this county with his parents, Samuel
and Anna (Pickard) Henkle, in 1851, from Washington Co., Md.,
and settled on sec. 19, Joshua tp. They had a family of 8 children :
Mary A., John R., deceased, Susan, Sarah, S. R., P^lizabeth, Anna,
C. and Simon. Samuel Heid<le died Jan. 19, 1877, and his wife,
Oct. 19, 1878, and were laid at rest jn the Lutheran Cemetery,
Joshua tp. Elizabeth and Ann are living on the old homestead.
Mary married John A. Shoop, is a widow, and lives on sec. 12,
Joshua tp. Her husband died in the army. Susan is the Avife of
D. C. Negley, Canton. Sarah married Jacob H. Laney and lives in
McDonough Co. Samuel R. married Minerva F. Randolph and
lives on sec. 19, Canton tp. Simon married Anna Walker and lives
in Joshua.
David Hess, of the firm <»f Hess, Moorehouse & Saville, j)ro|)ri('-
tors of the woolen-mill. These gentlemen began in this mill in
Nov., 1877. It was orignally owned by J. G. Piper, and built by
him in 1852. He sold it to a company who ran it for several vears.
This firm manufacture eassimeres, satinets, blankets, jeans aiid all
kind of yarn, and also do custom work. This firm also run the
woolen mills at Ipava. The capacity of the Canton Mills is about
554 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
50,000 pounds of wool per year manufactured into yarn and cloth.
Mr. Hess married Sarah J. Boswell, daucrliter of Ezekiel Boswell,
an early settler, now deceased. They have 3 boys and o girls.
C. D. Hoblitt, baidvcr, was born Jan. 20, 1833, near Atlanta,
Logan Co., HI. In Aug., 1840, his father Mahlon Hoblitt, moved
to Canton, and lived here until 1848, when he returned to Logan
Co. Mr. Hoblitt's first wife was Carrie, daughter of Dr. Nathaniel B.
Childs. She died March 10, 1801, leaving one child, Florence Lil-
lie. He was married to his present wife, Mrs. Helen T. Mitchell,
in June, 1864, They have 4 children : Maggie Smith, Susie Belle,
Charlie D., and Hattie E. Mr. H. has been engaged in the bank-
ing business for the last 11 years, and has been proprietor of the
People's Bink, Canton, for several years. He was elected ^Nlayor of
the city in 1874, and has served as Deputy Collector of internal
revenue. The Hoblitts are of German descent. The first known
to have come to this country was Michael Hoblitt, who came al)out
1775 and settled in Pennsylvania. This was the great-grandparent
of the subject of this sketch. His grandparent was John Hoblitt,
who came to Logan countv, 111., in 182G.
H. H. Hoffmen). Martin Hoffman was l)orn in Germary in 1825 ;
came to the U. S. in 1834, and settled at Mt. Vernon, O. ; moved
to Oregon, Mo., in 1852. In consequence of the disrupted condi-
tion of Missouri he came to Canton with his family in '62 and resided
here until his death, aged 51 years and 11 months. In 1847 he
was married to Miss llebecca flayers, at Mt. Vernon. She died in
Canton Jan. 17, 1867, aged 42. Sept. 3, 1871, he married ]Mrs.
Agnes Gibson, in Canton, who -survives him. Martin Hoflnian was
the father of 9 children, 8 of whom are living, — H. M., E. E., H.
H., Justus, C. C, R., Jennie B. and Stella.
Jo/i» (J. Horiisfein ,' d\6t\\\er, was born in Sagerstown, Crawford
Co., Pa., in 1837; came to this county in 1856; married Lizzie
Slocum, a native of New York; Fred Stevens is their only child.
Mr. H. has been successful in his business, his distillery consuminof
on an average about 500 bushels of grain per dav ; it has a capacity
of 1,200 bushels.
Dr. A. R. Howard was born in England; came to Illinois in 1866
and located in Canton in 1868. He was educated in Toronto and
graduated from the Cincinnati Eclectic ^ledical College in 1877, and
in j)ractice ha>; been eminently successful. He was united in mar-
riage with Miss Viola .Vngenetta.
Fred W. Lif/ersoll, dealer in dry-goods, Canton. This business
was established in the fall of 1839 by the father of the jiresent pro-
prietor, J. \V. Ingersoll, who came to the State in 1839, in the em-
ploy of the State as a civil engineer uj)on the Illinois Central II. R.,
and in a few months was transferred to the Peoria tt Warsaw road
with headquarters at Canton. The business was first started by two
brothers, J. W. t^- PI. F. Ingers(dl, upon the southwest corner of
the Square. In the spring of 1840 D. W. Vittum purchased a one-
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 555
third interest and the firm name was changed to Ingersoll & Vit-
tum. In 1851 Mr. V. purchased the interest of the Ingersoll
Brothers. They immediately began business again on the northeast
corner of the Square, in '43 removed to the east side of Square. The
firm remained the same until 1<S()5, when it was dissolved, J. W.
continuing the business, and in 1868 he erected the large brick block
upon the west side, occupying it till his death, which occurred Sept.
28, 1877, and now by his son. He left a widow and 5 children:
Mrs. Elizabeth (Sage) Ingersoll, and lier children as follows : Henrv
S., Ellen A., Mary E., wife of Humphrey Bell, of Canton, Fred-
erick W. and Cora A. Fred. W. was born in Canton in 1852, and
was married in Sept., 1874, to Kate P. Bass. He attended the
Canton schools and sj)ent 3 years at Cornell University, N. Y., and
has traveled quite extensively in Germany and France to perfect him-
self in the languages of those countries.
Zsaac C. Johnson, farmer, is a native of Sussex Co., N. J., and
was born June 6, 1806. Abraham Johnson, his grandfather, was a
native of the same State and served as Captain and Major in the
Continental army. His grandparents Mere Samuel and Mary
(Hall) Johnson. Isaac came to this county June 28, 1835, and set-
tled on Col. Barnes' farm; in 1836 bought the farm where he now
lives. He was married in his native county in 1825 to Phoebe
Dean, and brought a family of.") children with them here : Jonatlian
D., Maria and Seymour H. The children born here are: Ira K.,
Susan H.. Ziba H.', Sarah A. W., Martha J. They had 3 die in in-
fancy. Mr. and Mrs. J. have been members of the Baptist Church
for over 50 years. Mr. J. was the first to organize a Baj^tist Church
in Canton. There were 7 who banded themselves togetiier for the
j)urpose of organizing a Baptist Church in Canton. These were
Isaac C. Johnson, Phoebe (Dean) Johnson, James and Rachel
Spencer, Elder West and wife, and a Mrs. Jirced. These are the
pioneers of the Baptist Church of Canton. They held their first
meeting at Elder West's house. He was the first preacher fi)r that
Church. The first house Mr. J. ])uilt was a chinked log house
12x14 feet. When they first occupied it there was not a door or
window in it: no bedstead or tal)le. For the latter they used an old
chest, and improvised a bedstead out of pok\s set in the fioor.
H, Keeling, brick-maker, was born in Sangamon Co., 111., and
came to this county in 1845, and settled ])ermanently in Canton in
1851, where he has since resided. He is now running a brick-yard
and has proven himself a live business man.
Wm. Pitt Kellof/f/ was born Dec. 8, 1830, in Vermont and edu-
cated at Norwich University; removed to Illinois in 1848, studied
law at Peoria, Ilk; was admitted to the Bar in 1853; commenced
practice in Fulton Co.; in LSliO served as Presidential Elector on
the Lincoln ticket; was ap])ointed Chief Justice of Nebraska by
Mr. Lincoln in 1861, resigned the same year and accepted the Col-
onelcy of the 7th Cavalry ; served under Gen. Pope in Mo. and
34
556 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
commanclecl Gon. Granger's Cavalry Brigade, until the evacuation
of Corinth ; April, I8O0, was appointed Collector of the Port of
New Orleans, his commission i)eing signed by Mr. Lincoln on the
afternoon ushering in the evening on which he was assassinated ; was
elected to the U. S. Senate in July, 1868, as a Rei)ul)lican ; his
term expired March 4, 1873; was re-elected. This is the statesman
who has figured so largely in I^ouisiana politics for the last 15 years,
w'ho has been Governor of that State, U. S. Senator, etc., and is at
present serving in the latter capacity.
■ JohnH. AW7y wasborn June3, 18i2, inLewisCo.,Ky. Hisparents
were Henry and Catharine (Buchanan) Kelly, the former of Virginia,
the latter of Kentucky. He came to this c(»unty with his parents in
1835, who settled on sec. 8, Buckheart tp. The old homestead is now
owned by J. H. Kelly and occupied by his son, Thos. Jasper Kelly.
Mr. K's daughter, Irene, is the wife of O. D. Evans of AVayne Co.,
Ind. He married Nancy Carter, in Fayette Co., Ky., in 1841. She
was born May 25, 1808,' in Ross Co., 6. Mr. K. has been engaged
in farming and stock-raising, at which he has been successful. He
retired from business some 12 years ago. He served Buckheart for
8 or 10 years as Supervisor and filled other offices.
H. M. Kline, grocer, came to Canton in 1856 and has been iden-
tified with the business of this city for 23 years, having carried on,
and been interested in, the packing and grain business, general
store and grocery, etc. His present business was established in 1875,
and he probably does as large business of the kind in the county as
any one does, if not larger. He occupies a fine brick store on the west
side of the S(piare 23 feet wide by 100 deep and two stories high ;
the upper floor being connected with the lower by a patent eleva-
tor, which can be made to ascend and descend with a weight of
3,700 lbs. at pleasure and without exertion, the first and only one
of the kind in Canton. He has erected some fine buildings in this
city, among which is his residence on Fourth and Maj)le sts. He
married Lucy H. Shinn, daughter of John W. Shinn, of Canton.
Edward E., Chas. H., John W. and Wm. S. are their children.
John Lake, a native of I^ong Island, N. Y., was taken to New
Jersey by his parents, Gilbert and Ellen (Brewer) Lake, when he
was an infant, where he was raised. He married Elizabeth Dvke-
man and came to Cincinnati in 1812, living there until 1837, when
he moved to this <'(»unty. Of their children Eliza married Thomas
Leepcr ; Ellen, Wm. Leepcr ; Catharine, Eleven Tucker; Mary
Ann married ( 'unningham Jirown. Mr. Lake was 82 when he died ;
his wife 83.
John Abrnm Jjane, farmer, sec. 21, was born in Somerset, Co., N.
J., in 1822, and came to this county in Aug., 1835 or '36, with his
parents, John A. Lane and Christiana Foner, his wife, who settled
in Fairview tj). The former died in 1854, the latter Sept. 12, 1876.
John A. married Rachel C. Baker, of Putman tp., July 1, 1844,
and they have a family of 6 children: Geo. L., deceased, Mary C,
HISTORY OP FULTON COUNTY. 557
John S., Abraham T., Julia, deceased, and Charles Clinton. Mary
i.s the wife of Henry Buwmaster, of Canton. He tells us that
during a terrific storm a party of 13 men were in a building uj)on
his farm that was comj)letely destroyed and notoneof the men -hurt.
George Wa-s-hingtou Lane, farmer. ITe lived on the old home-
stead in Joshua tp. for nearly 30 years, but has lived on sec. 22,
Canton tp., for the last 10 years. He has a pleasant location near
Canton, and one of the best improved farms in this county, Mr,
L. is a native of Somerset Co., N, J., was born July 1, 1822,
and is the son of John A. and Christiana (Foner) Lane, who came
to this county in 183G and settled in Joshua tp. They are both
deceased, the former at the ag-e of 65, the latter at 78 years. Mr.
L. was united in marriage with Elizabeth Garrett at Fairview, in
the fall of 1848.
Thomas Leeper was a native of Pennsylvania, and his parents
moved to Ohio when he was a year old. He and his wife came to
this county in 1836, and settled in Fairview township, where they
lived for 29 years, when they moved on sec. 6, this township.
Thomas Leeper died Nov. 0, 1858. His widow still lives on the
old homestead, at the age of 70 years. Of their children Jane mar-
ried David Weaver, deceased; Mary Ann married John William-
son; Catharine, living at home; Charlotte, .wife of Thos. Pool,
lives in Union tj). ; Wm. A. lives near Babylon ; Geo. W., killed
in the army ; P]lleu married Wm. II, Weaver, of Canton ; Ann
married Barney Greenwell ; Sarah, Andrew McBride, and Adeline
lives with her mother.
Lydia LitUefiehl Avas born in Alleghany Co., N. Y., in 1823.
She is a daughter of Mr. H. Fellows, a native of Rome, N, Y. He
came to Canton in 1830, bringing his daughter. He was a carpenter
by trade. Mrs. L. lived in Canton when there were less than 12
houses there, and she remembers the first engagement with the In-
dians. Austin Mallory came at the same time, and Joel Wright
and family, Isaac P. Fellows and family, Harrison Fellows and
Mr. CoyUendall. Afterwards Mrs. Littk'field married first Mr. H.
M. Smith in 1840. He died in 184M, and she married L. E. Lit-
tlefield in 1850; has one child by her first husband, Charles Henry
Smith, born in 1841, and livina- in Canton. Mr. Littlefield died
Oct. 17, 1870.
C. J. Mam, attorney and Justice of the Peace, is a native of
Conneant, Ashtabula Co., O., where he was born in 1838. He re-
ceived his education at the common schools and Lawrence Univer-
sity, Appletou, Wis. He commenced legal studies in the office of
J. L. Murphy, of Canton, and remained with him two years; Avas
admitted to the Bar in April, 1871 ; was elected J. P. in 1869, and
in '70 elected Police Magistrate,, and in '71 re-elected for 4 years
and same year elected City Clerk, and in 1872 elected Alderman of
2d Ward, and re-elected Police Magistrate in 1879. He does a law,
loan, real-estate and collecting business.
558 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Daniel W. Maple, son of Thompson Maple, was born in Canton
Feb. 24, 1837. He was educated in Jubilee College, Peoria Co.,
and Knox Academy, Galesburg; has been Mayor of Canton one
year, City Clerk 3 years, Alderman 2 years; was married April 6,
1856, to Sarah E. Hall, of St. Louis. Wm. M., Chas. H., Harry
F., Frank, D. W. and l/ouisa are their children.
Thompson Maple was born in 1815 in Lewis Co., Ky. He with
his wife, formerly Lyrena A, Hoyden, came to this county by
steam-boat to Havana, and on horseback to his uncle's^ Henry
Kelly, in Buckheart tp. in 1836. He was prominently identified
with the business of Canton for many years ; was engaged in mer-
chandising and packing business, built the Phoenix Distillery and
was a contractor for and graded the T., P. & W. R. R. from Canton
to Carthage ; built the plank-road from Canton to Liverpool, and
was one of Canton's most enterprising citizens. He is now living
in Chicago and is superintendent of Oakwood Cemetery. He was
Mayor of Canton in 1856-7. He had a family of 9 children, all of
whom died in inflincy except 4, as follows : Daniel W., John E.,
died Aug., 1873, age 33, Charles H., lives in Chicago, and Douglas,
accidentally killed in 1861.
Eliphalet Mariner, farmer, sec. 36. The great-grandsire of Mr.
M. came from France and settled in Connecticut ; his grandfather's
name was Wm. Mariner, and his father's, Buell Mariner, who lived
in Litchfield Co., Ct. ^Ir. M. came to this county in Dec, 1836,
and located in Canton ; the following spring bought a farm on sec.
20, built a log house and moved into it. For some years he ran a
threshing-machine, which was known as the " ground-thresher," or
''chaff piler." This was the first successful thresher ever run in
the county. There had been only one other of any kind in the
county. He also was engaged as a superintendent on the building
of the Peoria and Oquawka R. R., and during 1H43 and '44 built
the turnpike between Copperas creek and Utica. In 1847 he
married Julia Lord at Canandaigua, N. Y. The same spring he
moved upon his present farm and has resided there for 32 years.
He was a firm supporter of Government during the war and contrib-
uted a horse to Barney Fuller, a ])rivate in the first cavalry com-
pany that left the county. This liorse was with Grierson and one
of only 4 that reached New Orleans on Grierson's famous raid.
Micron Mariner, son of Eliphalet and Julia C. (Lord) Mariner;
the former of New York, the latter of Connecticut. They came to
this county in 1835 and jMirchased a farm on sees. 17 and 20, Canton
tp., of 160 acres, and afterwards added to it 105 acres. The farm is
yet owned by him but occupied by his son Myron. He married,
Jan, 1, 1878, Miss Mary C. Flowers, a native of Iowa and daughter
of Wm. Flowers of Adair Co., Mo.
Huf/h Martin, ^L D. Dr. Martin first came to Canton, Xov. 3,
1840; left the following February and returned in Oct. 1843, and
has since resided in Canton and practiced his profession. His med-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 559
ical education was commenced with Dr. Jesse Palmer at Eaton, O.
He read medicine in his office for three years, at the end of which
time was examined by the State medical censors of Ohio, passed,
and was given a certificate as regular physician. He afterwards at-
tended a regular course of lectures, at the Ohio Medical College,
Cincinnati, the University of St. Louis, Mo., graduating in the med-
ical department of the same in March, 1853. He is the oldest prac-
ticing physician now living in the county, and has partially retired
from practice. The Doctor was born in Frederick Co., Va.,in 1802,
and received his non-professional education at Miami University,
Oxford, O. His parents were Hugh and Rebecca (Baldwin) Mar-
tin, the former a native of Londonderry, Ireland, and his mother of
Frederick Co., Ya. He was married at Liberty, O., Sept. 26, 1832,
to Elizabeth Hippie, of that pUice. Eight children were born to
them, only three of whom are living: James, Hugh and Kate.
John Clark Martin, deceased, was born in Washington Co., N. Y.,
and came to this county in 1831. He first settled on a farm be-
tween Canton and Lewistown, and then moved to another on sec. 2,
Canton tp., where he died in 1838, leaving a widow and 2 children,
Dorcas Lavina, now the wife of Jacob Hanson, and Joseph E.
The widow, Delina (Grover) Martin, married Abner Hill, also de-
ceased. She bore one child l)y this marriage, — James A. The
widow still lives at the old homestead on sec. 2, with her son Jo-
seph E. Martin, who carries on the farm. J. E. takes great inter-
est in educational matters and has been School Director 6 years.
James A. Hill served in the late war in 102d 111. Inf, and was with
Sherman on his famous March to tiie Sea.
Geor(je Maxwell is a native of Cumberland county, Pa., where he
was born in 1817. His parents were Henry and Elizabeth (Sny-
der) Maxwell, natives of the same county. Mr. M. came to this
county April 16, 1851, and h)cate(l in the city of Canton, where he
lived for one year. He then bought a residence and 10 acres of
land one-half mile from the city limits, where he has since lived.
This land was covered with timber at the time, but not so much as
a stump is to be seen there now. He is a carpenter l)y trade and
has erected at least 100 good buiklings in the county. He married,
in 1848, Elizabeth Har])er, of Perry Co., Pa., and a daughter of
Michael and Nancy (McKenna) Harper. They came to this county
in 1849, when quite aged, and lived till death overtook tliem with
their son .lohn Harper, near Farniington. George Maxwell has a
family of 3 children, — Henry, Mary E. and Arabella. Mary mar-
ried Geo. Langstaif, of Canton.
Hewett McBroom, and his wife, Bridget (Robins) McBroom, were
among the early settlers of this countv. Thev were natives of
North Carolina and came here in 1830, bringing a famuy of 3 ciiil-
dren : Betsy, deceased, Mary Ann and Joim, deceased. Mary is
now living at Gainesville, Tex. Mr. McBroom was engaged in
farming, trading, etc., during his life-time; he died in Nov., 1877,
560 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
aged 75 years, less 5 days. His wife is still living, aged 78. They
borrowed $50 of Mrs. McBroom's father in Indiana to emigrate
with and started with an ox team. They had no matches then, and
-vverc obliged to carry tire in a kettle hung to the wagon, to "fire
back" on the prairie in case of a prairie fire. They finally arrived
at their destination and located one mile southwest of Canton. A
man by the name of Joe Wheeler, a trapper and Indian trader,
whom they knew, and now believed to be dead, claims to have
helped plow the first land that was broken in this county. This
was south of Canton near the Elijah Capps farm. The parents of
Hewett, John and Elizabeth, his wife, and 3 children, John, Anna
and James, arrived in New Castle on the Delaware from Ii*eland
Sept. 2, 1801. Alfred McBroom was born in Canton Feb. 7, 1842.
His wife, Elizabeth E. Mowery, daughter of Jacob and Mary J.
(Henderson) Mowery, of Putman tp., was born April 2, 1844.
Geo. B., Mahlon T., Chas. A., Willie J., Lewis A. and Carrie B.
are their children.
Jeremiah McBroom is a son of Hewett and Bridget (Robins) Mc-
Broom, mentioned in another place in this volume, and was born in
Canton tp. at the old homestead where he now resides with his
family. He was married to Marv S. Dancer, daujihter of Vincent
Dancer, in 18(50. They have a family of 3 children, — Edward,
Belle and May. The eldest, Caruline, died in ]May, '79. Mr. ISIcB.
has spent his life on the farm, engaged in farming and stock-raising.
Jl/r.s\ Louisa McGall, w'idow of the late J. H. McCull, was
born in I^ondon in 1825; came to New Orleans in 1834 and to Illi-
nois in 1835. .James Hervey INIcCall was born in Baltimore, of
Scotch parents, in 1812. Pie came to Peoria in 1835 and to Canton
in 1856, and ran the mills here until 1871, when he retired from
active lousiness. He was Alderman in Peoria for 3 terms, and was
one of the organizers of the First National Bank of Cant(Hi, and
President until his death. They were blessed with 4 children :
INIaggie L., married and resides at Troy, N. Y. ; Carrie G., wife of
Geo. Block, of Canton ; Josie E., wife of Wm. Babcock, jr., also of
Canton ; Agnes, marri(>d Chas. I^evings, of Edgar county. III. !Mr.
^IcCall went to Mountain City, Nev., in 1873, to establish a gold-
mining business, and died. We give his portrait in this book.
Finis McCxdilwn is among the few old settlers now living mIio
date their ai-rival back to 1833. He located in Canton May 6 of
that year, and engaged in mercantile pursuits till '36, when he moved
to his })resent residence on sec. 4, Canton tp. He claims to be the
only resident in the south half of Farmington or the north half
of Canton townships, who has not moved his fiimily since 1836.
Mr. McC. built the first two-story frame building on the Puldic
Square in Canton, and it was first occupied by himself and partner,
Marvin Tryon. His ancestors were Scotch. James and Samuel
McCutchen, brothers, came to the U. S. in 1740, and settled in
Augusta county, Va. James was his great -grandparent, and his
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 561
son John, who married Elizabeth Wear, is the grandparent, and
Hugh and Elizabeth (McComb) McCutchen are the parents of our
subject. His father was born in Augusta Co., Va., Feb. 22, 1773,
and his mother in (iuilfbrd county, N. C. Finis was born in Logan
county, Ky., Feb. 17, 1809, and married at (\inton, Jan. 2, 1834, Mary
W. Dewey, daughter of Oliver Dewey. They have but one child,
Augustine, who married Mary Dewey, and their 2 children are Mary
and Chas. C. Mr. McC. has been a member of the Congregational
Church since 1860, and Mrs. McC. has been a member since 1833,
and is the oldest member of the 1st Presbyterian Church of Canton,
now the 1st Congregational. John Sloss came to Canton with Mr.
McC. from Kentucky and died in 1850.
James R. McQuaid, grocer, was born in Clearfield Co., Pa., in
1818, and came to Canton Nov. 13, 1844, and has been identified
with its business interests since. He is a gun-maker by trade, and
carried on that business during the first 10 years of his residence
here. He manufactured rifles from the rough iron, and won an ex-
cellent reputation as the maker of trusty and accurate guns. In
1855 he quit this business on account of ill he 1th and opened a
hardware store, which he conducted till 18t3, when he sold out.
The store is now occupied by Cyrus Smith. Since 1864 he has
kept a grocery store. Ke is now (summer of '79) erecting a large
brick store on the east side of the Stpiare, into which he intends
moving. He was married to Elizabeth Patton, of Huntington Co.,
Pa., in 1840. Six children were born to them : James P., Mary
A. (deceased), Elizabeth V., Eliza Bell (deceased), Sarah Ellen
(deceased), Wm. \., and Andrew Jackson. Mr. McQuaid has been
a member of the Baptist Church for 37 years. His parents were
James and Jane (Ross) McQuaid, the former of Chester Co. and the
latter of Wyoming Co., Pa.
G. L. Miller. Gilbert L. Miller was born in Joshua t)wnship,
Fulton Co., 111., June 8, 1852; lived until the age of 1 'i on his
father's farm, securing during that time a common-school education.
He then entered the office of Dr. G. W. Wright, of Canton, where
he studied medicine fijr two years and a half, during this time at-
tending a course of lectures at the College of Physicians and Sur-
geons at Keokuk, Iowa; then taught school for five years and six
months: during two years of this time he read law. June 1, 1877,
entered into partnership with Horace J. Leigh, — in the printing
business, — publishing the Fulton County Adrerfiscr. He was mar-
ried June 6, 1878, to Dora F. (McClure) Slocum, daughter of
Henry S. McClure, and adopted daughter of the late Stephen P.
Slocum, of Canton.
Samuel S. Miller, farmer, is a native of Franklin Co., Pa., where
he was born June 15, 1829; father was Jacob Miller, a native of
Pennsylvania, and lived there at the age of 90. Samuel has a farm
on sec. 6, this tp., and one on sec. 9, Joshua tp. Mrs. Miller's
name before marriage was Mary Catharine Negley, a daughter of
oH2 HISTOHY OF FT'T,TON COT'NTY.
Dr. Negley, and adopted bv her uncle Jacob Negley at the age of
4 years. Mr. and Mrs. M. have 8 children, all of whom live at
home. They are Pierre Delbarre, Alice, Geo. B., Allen A., Clarence
E., Cordia M., Sarah C, and Frederick.
Squire P. Miller wa.s born in Morris Co., X. J., in Oct., 1826,
and came to Canton in 1847. He has carried on the wagon-making
business for the past 25 years, and the livery business for 17 years.
Mr. M. has been prominently connected with the business of Can-
ton since his residence here. He is a veteran of the Mexican war,
and was at the battles of A^era Cruz, Cerro Gordo, City of Mexico,
etc. He went from New Jersey, and on leaving the army came to
this countv. He was married at Canton in 1854 to Miss Snvder,
and has a family of two children, — Mary and Sadie.
JRcc. Henri/ Mills, pastor of the Congregational Church, Canton,
was born in Kingsville, Ashtabula Co., O., May 21, 1828, and came
to this citv in Mav 1872. He was united in marriaee with Miss
Strong, of Portage, N, Y. They have a family of 3 sons and 2
daughters, — George T., J. Dolson, Epstein, May, and Jesse.
Dr. Will. Montgomery McDowell, deceased, settled in Canton and
commenced the practice of his profession in 1847, and continued in
practice till his death, which occurred in 1877. He took more than
ordinary interest in his ])r()fession and endeavored to excel in all its
branches. He was married at Canton to Malvina Tyner Oct. 13,
1852. Mrs. McD. is still living in Canton, on N. Main St. She
is a native of Rochester, N. Y., and is numbered among the first
who came to Canton, coming in 1830. The Doctor was Mayor of
Canton for several years. His parents were John and Margarette
(Montgomery) McDowell, the former of Chambersburg, Va., and
born in 1795, the latter born in Mountour Co., Pa., in 1798. The
Doctor's portrait may be found in this volume.
Henry Mofsiiu/er was l)orn in 1826 in Washington Co., Ind. His
parents were Michael and Barbara Gilstraj), both of North Caro-
lina. They came to this county in 1835. The father died in 1878,
aged 80 years; the mother is living with her son Henry. They
brought with them a large family of children, — Aaron, Richard,
Hannaii, Jacob, Henry, Nancy, Celia, Catharine and Susan.
Elizabeth and David were born in this c(uinty, Henry was mar-
ried on sec. 18, Orion townshi}), in 1858, to Miss Sarah Wolf,
daughter of Thomas F. Wolf, and the first white child born in
Orion tp. They have 2 children : Mary and John Milton. The
latter died April 4, '79, age 19 years. Mr. M. has been a member
of the M. E. Church for 15 years, and fi)r the last 12 Steward,
Trustee, etc. His wife is also a member.
Joseph Leopold Miirphy, attorney, was born in Uniontown, Pa.
His parents settled in this county in 1839, when he was a lad of 5
years of age. He was educate<l mostly at the schools in this county
and at Quincy and McGee College, Missouri ; commenced his legal
studies in 1862; read law in the office of Warren & Wheat, of
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 563
Quincy, for 2 years, and was admitted to the Bar in the spring of
1864. Mr. M. was Mayor of Canton in 1871-2 and has held
various other offices.
Richard Murphy, deceased, was among those who came here as
early as 1839. He was a man of fine education, a master of Greek
and Latin, talked French fluently, and indeed was a man of more
than ordinary ability. He was a native of Queens Co., Ireland.
He died in 1850 at his farm home on sec. 11, Joshua tp. His wife
was Elizabeth Fitzpatrick, of his native county. She died Jan. 19,
1876. His ancestors were land-holders and held the land upon
which he was born for over 300 years. His mother was a Fitzger-
ald, a descendant of Lord Edward Fitzgerald, who served in the
British army, but resigned during the American Revolution and
was killed in the Irish Rebellion of 1798. The children of Richard
Murphy are : Mary T., now living in Quincy ; Anna E. B. married
Mr. Hopkins and lives in New York city ; Joseph Leopold, lawyer
at Canton, and Louisa, residing with her brother.
Ellison Norcott, proprietor of the T., P. & W. R. R. Depot
Hotel, came to Canton in 1850. He is a native of New Brunswick.
His mother was born at Plainfield, N. J., his father at New Lon-
don, Ct. His ancestors came from Sheffield, Eng. He has had a
family of 6 children, — Fred A., ticket agent for R. I. & P. R. R.
at Peoria ; Chas. E. lives at Bunker Hill, 111. ; Wm. H. lives in
Canton.
Mm. J. Orendorjf] of the firm of Parlin & Orendorff, manufactur-
ers, was born in Orion tp., Fulton Co., 111., January 14, 1829, and
is the son of John and Margaret (Sayle) Orendorff, the former of
Wilkes Co., Ga., and his mother of Wilkes Co., North Carolina. His
parents came to Orion tp. in April, 1825. His mother died at the old
homestead July 19, 1867, and his fiither Jan. 28, 1876. Wm. J. was
educated at the Orion and Canton schools. He began his present
business, which is more fully described elsewhere in this work, in
1852; married Sept. 28, 1856, to Miss Mary Rohrer, daughter of
Henry Rohrer, a native of Lancaster Co., Pa., and formerly a resi-
dent of Canton, now deceased, Arthur L., Wm. H., Ulysses G.
and John W. are their children. We give the portraits of Mr.
Orendorff and his father in this volume.
John J. Owen, dairy farmer, is a native of New York city, where
he was born in 1831. His father, Franklin E. Owen, is a native of
of Connecticut, his mother, Jane Owen, nee Prine, was born
in Monmouth Co., N. J. Mr. O. came to Canton in March,
1867, and embarked in a small way in the milk business. He has
since given his attention to dairy farming, having bought a farm on
sec. 25, Canton tp. He was married in 1869 at New Brunswick,
N. J., to Eliza Jones. He was sutler of the 9th N. J. Inf. during
the war. On parting with his regiment when mustered out at
Trenton, N. J., the privates of the regiment presented him with a
fine gold watch as a testimonial of good wishes and pleasant inter-
course.
564 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Parlin d' Orendorff. "NVm. Parlin commenced the manufacture of
plows in 1847 on the corner of Fourth and Ehn streets, wliere is
now part of their present works. All of the work was done bv hand
and no machinery of any kind was used. In 1855 William J.
Orendorff became a partner and the two have continued ever since
under the name of Parlin & Orendorff. In 1857 the first engine —
6-horse power — was put in the shop in place of horse-power then in
use. They have at four different times put in larger engines until
they reached 150-horse power, which is now too small for their in-
creasing trade. Gradually their w:orks have enlarged till now they
have one of the largest plow works in the country, having a capacity
for 250 workmen and for turning out a complete plow every 3
minutes. They consume annually 2,000 tons of iron and steel and
over 1,000,000 feet of lumber. They now* own the entire block upon
which their works stand. They make plows of styles and designs suit-
able for every section of country. The list of kinds of plows will ex-
ceed 100 different sizes and styles. They manufacture besides plows,
cultivators, sulky-plows, stalk-cutters, harrows, road-scrapers and
a great variety of other goods. Their trade is still growing and the
indications are that they will soon "be compelled to enlarge their
works. Machinery is now used for all work. If they had to get
out the work by hand-power, the same as in former years, 1,000
men could not accomplish what work they are now doing.
Win. Parlin, in the paternal line, is of English ancestry, the first
im uigration being to Massachusetts, where Samuel, the grandfather
of our subject, and Warner, the father, were born. They were blood
relatives of the heroic Gen. Warren avIio fell at Bunker Hill, and
they too fought for American independence. William's mother's
maiden name was Lydia Davis, and she was the daughter of Jona-
than D.ivis, of Middlesex Co., Mass. Davis also fought in the
Revolution. A cousin of his, Capt. Davis, was the first officer killed
in the war, — at the battle of Concord. Mr. Parlin was born in the
town of Acton, Middlesex Co., Mass., Jan. 21, 1817; first came to
Fulton Co., July 4, 1840, and being a blacksmith by trade he soon
established himself in his business at Canton, in a small shop, which
has grown to the present large institution employing hundreds of
men. Jan. 7, 1845, he married Caroline Orendorff, daughter of
John O., in Ori^u tp. Their four children are Artemas F., Win. H.,
Clara E. and Alice C. The first mentioned died at the a^e of 18.
Mr. Parlin has i)een Alderman several terms: was elected to that
position at the first city election ; has been School Director, and at
present is Mayor of Canton. He is a zealous temperance advocate
and a Republican. Although not a member of any church hp has
liberally contributed to all. Mr. Parlin's portrait is given in this
work.
Plattenhurif Famihj. The seniors of this family in this county
are Perry Plattenburg and his wife, Ellen (Doddridge) Plattenburg,
the former a native of EUicott's Mills, near Harper's Ferry, Md.,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 565
where he was born in 1801, and tlie latter a native of Wellsburg,
"W. Va., and a daughter of Pliilip Doddridge, a member of Con-
gress, who died in Washington wiiile attending a session of that
bodv in 1832. They lirst came to this county, locating at Canton,
in June, 1854, bringing a family of 6 children, one son being in
California, but who joined them in '57. His name was Albert E.
The names of the other children were as follows: Wm. D., Philip
D., Ada D., Perry W., Ellen S., and Wilbur Fisk. All of the
children were born at Wellsburg, W. Ya. Perry Plattenburg on
his arrival in Canton embarked in the lumber business with his son,
Wm. D., under the name of P. Plattenburg & Son, and continued
under the same name until Feb. 4, 1876, when the senior partner
retired, and the business has been conducted by Wm. D. since that
date. The children are all living and in Canton with the exce})tion
of Albert E., who died July 6, 1876, at Canton, leaving a widow
and one child, Elizabeth. His wife was Anna B. Bewsher, of
Peoria. Wm. D. married Margaret Ward, of Chillieothe, C, Jan.
14, 1851, and has 5 children, — Anna D., Ada D., Elizabetii G.,
Wm. D., jr., and Fred. Philip D. and Perry W. are engaged in
the drug business under the firm name of Plattenburg Bros.
John W. Proctor was born in Sangamon Co., in 1828, and was
taken when an infant to Lewistown, where he resided for 48 years,
cominsr to Canton in 1875, Mr. P. started the first bank in Lewis-
town, now the 1st National Bank. He also started a woolen fac-
tory there. He has been largely identified with the county, and at
present is working the Williams coal mine at Canton. He was
President of the ()ld Settlers' Societv organized 13 years ago. He
married Miss ISIary Antoinette, daughter of Rev. W. K. Talbott,
in 1854, at Oquawka, 111. They have 2 daughters, — Frances L.
and Hattie T.
Benjamin Rohrer, son of Henry Rohrer, Avas born in Lancaster
Co., Pa., Jan. 17, 1833, and was educated at the common schools
at Galesburg. He is a staunch Rcjiublican, and was appointed a
delegate to the State Convention in 1878 to nominate State officers.
He takes deep interest in educational matters. He married Mary
Hershey March 17, 1856, who was born in his native county March
31, 1838. They have a family of 9 children, — Abner, born Aug.
20, '58, died in '75; Hiram, Feb. 22, '60; Benj. F., Nov. 22, '61 ;
Emma, Sept. 18, '63; Abram H., Jan. 8, 'Q()', Henry H., Jan. 19,
'68; Susan, Feb. 26, '70; Mary H., May 30, '73, and John D.,
Sept. 29, '76.
Christian Rohrer, farmer and stock-raiser, is a son of Henry
Rohrer, and was born in Lancaster Co., Pa., in April, 1838; mar-
ried in that county in 1860 to Elizabeth Herr, who has borne him
4 children, — Henry B., Adeline, Christian, and Cyrus H. He lives
on see. 14, the old, original lunnestead of his father, and has 320
acres of land here and 640 in Livingston Co. He remembers when
deer and wolves were numerous through this county, and has spent
566 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
many pleasant clays roaming the prairie hunting them. Hogs, run-
ning wild, wore all over tiie prairie. A person could scarcely pass
a brush lieaj) but a "rail-splitter" would start with her family with
an "ugh !" He lost a drove of milch cows, which were gone on the
prairies for 6 weeks before he found them ; by this time they
of course were all dry.
Henry Rohrer, deceased, came to this county in 1847, with his
wife Mary (Doner) Rohrer, and a family of 8 children, — Benjamin,
Elizabeth, Mary, Christian, Amanda, Esther, Henry D. and Emma.
He iirst landed at Quincy when he came to the State and remained
4 months, during the meantime riding over the country on horse-
back looking up a location, and finally selected the homestead in
Canton tp. While here his horse died and he was obliged to walk
to Quincy, 106 miles, to join his family; which he did in 2 days.
He brought considerable means w'ith him, and at one time owned
1,500 acres of land in Canton tp., much of which is still owned by
his sons. He probably built the largest brick farm-house in the
county, at a cost of $20,000. The children with their families still
gather at the old homestead, occupied by Henry D., each Christmas
time and hold a family re-union. Mr. R. was a strong, vigorous
man and the day j)receding his death worked and walked home in
the evening, a distance of 3 miles. At midnight he was attacked
with a stroke of apoplexy, and died the next morning at 6 o'clock.
He was born Sept. 23, 1811, in Lancaster county, Pa., and died in
Dec., 1875.
Henry D. Rohrer was born Aug. 25, 1846, in Lancaster county,
Pa. He w-as brought to this county by his parents in '47. He mar-
ried Mrs. Shleich, formerly Nina Broherd, of Farmington, in 1878.
She is the daughter of Daniel antl Elizabeth (Kent) Broherd, na-
tives of Ohio, and were amono; the first settlers in Fairview town-
ship. Mr. B. died June 9, 1879, an<l Mrs, B. still lives in Farm-
ington tp. Elmer Shleich, son of Mrs. R., is the only child.
Fike (J. Ross was born at Lewistown, this county, July 6, 1825,
and is the son of Ossian M. Ross, th(^ founder of Lewistown. Pike
C. came to Canton in .Jan., 1836. He attended Jacksonville Col-
lege for 2 years, and on returning to Canton joined Co. K, 4th 111.
Lif , and served one year in the war with Mexico. On returning
home he began the study of medicine, aiul attended the Ohio Med-
ical College at Cincinnati. He returned and began the practice of
his profession at Havana, 111., wiu're lie continued for 4 years. His
eyes becoming aU'ected he traveled through the East and South
until they were cured, when he returned to Canton and has followed
the medical business ever since. Li 18(56 Mr. R. married Miss
Margaret Irwiu, of McDouough county. 111. They have 4 children :
James, Nella, Clara and Anna, all of w'hom reside in Canton.
James 31. SavH/, machinist, was born in England in 1813; came
to Canton in 1844 and acted as engineer for 5 years. He then
started a machine shop and has carried on the same in Canton to
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 567
the present time, with moderate success. His work is principally
in machinery and repairing aoricuUural implements. He has 7
children: Edward, Francis H., Daniel, Samuel B., I^onisa and
Bettv.
George W. Seafon, ji;rocer, was born in Indiana, IVIay 9, 1832, and
came to Canton in LSol ; his father, James Seaton, still lives at the
old homestead in Indiana. Mr. S. clerked for some years and then
established the dry-<2:o()ds business of Seaton ^V: l^nderwood. In
1861 the firm was cluiuued by admitting; Mr. liabcock and carrying
general dry -goods and groceries until 1872, when they were swept
out by fire. Mr. S. agtiin went into business and in the fall of
'78 started in the grocery trade at his present location. He married
Miss Ijouisa Oulton, and has 6 children: William Pitt, age 20;
Anna, 17; Katie, 15; Charles, 13; Freddie, 11 ; George, 6.
Howard W. Sebree was born in 1832 at Madison, Jefferson Co.,
Ind. His parents were James Sebree and Elizabeth Sebree, nee
Trotter, both of Virginia. They came overland with one 5-horse
and a 2-horse team and arrived in this county in the fall of '32.
They brought a family of 7 children : Nancy, Preston, Robert T.,
Curran, Chas. W., Howard W., Eliza J. Robt. T. was born in
Kentucky and Eliza J. in Canton and the others were born in Indi-
ana. Elder Sebree was a pioneer of three States. He settled in
Indiana in 1805, Ohio in 1825 and this State in 1832, and was
called by his friends a Daniel Boone. Howard W. was married at
Lewistown, 111., May 27, 1852, to Margaret INI. Simpson, a native
of Philadelphia, Pa. ; Emma Ij. and Stella are their cliildren.
0/icer Shcplcy, land agent for the Savages, of (^uiney. He at
onetime owned vast quantities of land through this section. This
drew many people to his house, giving him a wide and extended
acquaintance. He formerly ke])t and supj)orted a deer ])ark of
about 12 acres. At times he had as many as 32 deer in this park.
This, with Mr. S's business and j)olitical ac(iuaintanee, drew many
people to his residence, which was like a hotel, — people coming and
going, only with this difference: everything was free. Mr. S. was
also agent for Geo. I\'abody, of Ijondon, Eng., of world-wide
celebritv. He was a man of strong convictions and firm in what he
was convinced was right. AVas in the Legislature in the same ses-
sion with Lincoln, with whom he had many an argument, being an
opponent in politics. He was a firm believer in the l^ible, but
never joined any church. The year he came here a Baptist minis-
ter heard of his arrival and said they didn't "want the dod-burned
Yankee here;" but his curiosity soon led him to call around to see
how long the Yankee horns were. When he called he was invited
to take a "nip," which in those days was customary. He noticed a
keg of whisky in the cal)in, and in a short time returned with a
bottle of honey for a bottle of whisky.
Thomas J. Shepley. Dr. Oliver Shepley, the fiither of T. J., was
a native of Groton, Mass., where he was born in 1786; his parents
568 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
were Wilbcr and Lucinda She])ley, natives of Scotland. Oliver
visited Illinois in 1<S.'j2 and l)()u<z;ht a farm on sec. 32, which is owned
by his son Thomas J. He foHowed farmino; and always took a deep
interest in ])olities, and was sent to the Tx'gislatnre 2 terms. He
was a physician. He acqnired his medical education in Paris,
France, and practiced in Florida for several years, but practiced
none after cominji; to Illinois. He married Mrs. Lydia Lawrence,
of Hollis, Mass., about 18;32; she was born March 28, 1803. Mrs.
S. had 2 children by former husband, one of whom is now living in
Deerfield. Lydia M. A. married Eli Paull, and died in '74. J. T.
married Mary Van Arsdale, of Fairview tp., daughter of Peter B.
Van Arsdale, in 18G6. She was born Dec. 14, 1849, and died July
28, 1878, leaving 2 children, Olive and Grace.
Washington S/icpIci/, farmer, sec. 25, is a son of Oliver and Ata-
lanta (Phelps) Shepley. The former was a native of Groton, Mass.,
and the mother, of Hartford, Ct. They resided in the State of
Mississippi for several years, where Washington was born in 1813.
His mother died in 1814, when his father, with his mother-in-law
and son Washington, traveled by horseback to Massachusetts.
Oliver Shepley came to Illinois in 1838 and about '40 to this
county, and lived on a farm one-half mile west of Canton till his
death, Nov. 17, 18(33. He was elected to the Legislature on the
Democratic ticket and was greatly esteemed. Nineteen years after
his father came Washington came and located on sec. 25, where he
has since lived and owns 160 acres of land, and 350 acres southwest
of Canton. He married, at New I])swich, N. H., Harriet A. Gib-
son in 1837. Henry O. is their only son. He lives in this town-
ship.
Jfeiveft Alhertis Shields, farmer, sec. 31. His father is James A.
Shields, and his grandfather, Robert Shields, came to this county
about 1826; his wife was Bridget McBroom. James A. Shields
married Betsy McBroom. They iiad 8 chiklren, — Celeste, Mary
Etta, Geo. Milford, Hewett Albertis, Harriet Ida, Robert B., Jere-
miah and Luella. Mrs. J. A. Shields died in April, 1871. H. W.
mai'ried EUen Josej)hine Chits, a native of Ohio, at Canton, in
1872. Cornelia E., Flora J. and Fanny are their children.
Jacob Silvern ail, farmer, is a native of Chenango Co., N. Y.,
where he was born in 1820. He came to this county in 1837 and
located at Canton, where he followed carpentering for 10 years, and
was engaged in the lumber business and running the saw-mill on
Copperas creek for 10 years ; and in 1859 located on his present
farm. In 1842 he was united in marriage with Alice Potter, for-
merly of New Jersey. They have had born to them 9 children.
John W. enlisted in Co. K, 103d 111. Inf., in 1862, and had served
15 months, when he was mortally wounded at ISIission Ridge, dying
the next night succeeding the battle. His remains were brought
home and now rest in Canton cemetery. Mary J., Melissa A., Hat-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 569
tie, Bell, Adelia, Lydia, and eToscphine are their children. Mr. and
Mrs. S. have been members of the Baptist Cluirch for 30 years.
Leonard D. SlociDn is a native of Livingston Co., N. Y., where
he was born in 1<S23, and is the son of Walter and Sally (Austin)
Slocum, natives of Rhode Island and of German descent. Mr. S.
came to Illinois in Feb., 1858, and located at Peoria, and in LSBO
moved to Canton and engaged in the distillery business under the
firm name of McCall & Co., the partners being James H. McCall
and Stephen P. Slocum. They continued tiie business till '67,
when the firm dissolved. Both his partners are deceased. Mr. S.
married Eliza Leary, native of Ireland, in Rochester, N. Y., May
14, 1854. She is a daughter of John and Margaret (Buckly) Leary,
and was only 8 years old when her parents came to this country.
They have 2 children, — Charles S. and Ida INI. Mr. S. owns a farm
of 221 acres one mile west from the Public Square in the city of
Canton, and one of the pleasantest locations in the county.
John Sloss, sr., was a native of North Carolina. His parents
moved into Kentucky when he was an infant, and there he was
raised. His wife, Elizabeth W. (Butler) Sloss was a native of W.
Virginia. They were married in Kentucky, and came to this conn-
ty in 1833. Mr. S. died in 1850, Mrs. S. in 1868, and consigned
to rest in the Canton cemetery.
Aiif/uMus B. Smith, merchant, was born at Greenfield, Saratoga
Co., N. Y., in 1830, and came to Canton first in '49, and settled
permanently in 1853. In 1862 he entered the army as Lieutenant
in 103d 111. Inf. He was promoted to the Ca])taincy, and served
on Gen. Woods' staff as Inspector-General. He })articipated in
many noted engagements, and came through unscathed, and at the
close of the war entered the hardware business at (Vinton, where he
has been ever since.
David 31. Smith, deceased, Mr. S. first came to this county in
1836. He was a native of Dover, Del., and his wife, Ann Jj. C.
(Hall) Smith, was a native of Chestertown, Md. Mr. S. was a mer-
chant tailor at Canton for many years. He was a member of the
M. E. Church at Baltimore from 1826 to '28, but on account of the
non-representation of lay members and the pro-slavery proclivities
of the Church, he withdrew from that denomination. He was one
of the founders of the Protestant Mcth. Church North, of which he
was an active, earnest member. He had often expressed a wish
that, the Lord being willing, when he came to die he might breathe
his last in the house of God, and on the Lord's day. His wish was
granted. Fifteen minutes, perhaps, after services liad begun in the
M. E. church, of Canton, on Sunday, Feb. 11, 1866, he was seen
to rise suddenly in his seat and ask for his hat. ^lembers of the
congregation rushed to his aid, but before or by the time they could
get him to the church door he expired in their arms. He left a
widow and 3 children. She still lives, residing with her son, C. H.,
at the advanced age of 80. The children's names are : Georgia Etta,
570 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
wife of Abrani Fash, of Chicago; David M., jr., and Chas. Henry
are living in Canton and carrying on the bakery and confectionery
bnsines:?.
Chas. 31. tSnyder, agent C, B. & Q. Railroad, Canton.' Mr. S.
was born in Canton in 1856. His parents, Geo. M. and ^lary C.
(Dunlap) Snyder, of Ohio, were early settlers in this county. Six
brothers and 2 sisters of George M. Snyder settled at Canton the
same time he did. C. M. has been connected with the C, B. & Q.
road for 8 years, 5 years of which time he has been agent at Can-
ton. He married Miss Helen Schanck, of Keokuk, la.
Georr/e M. Snyder was born in Franklin county. Pa., in 1830, and
was brought to Canton by his father, Peter L. Snyder, in 1837.
Peter L. started the first furniture factory in Canton ; he had 6 sons
and 2 daughters: L. A., the eldest son died 2 years ago at Galva,
111.; Catharine A., wife of S. P. Miller, of Canton; Thomas W.,
David W., Robert C, Matilda J. and John H. Peter L. married
Miss Sarah Williamson, of Maryland, in 1825. He died in Can-
ton in 1860; Mrs. S. in 1870. The 4 eldest sons bought out the
business in 1853 and the 3 brothers individually sold at different
periods to Geo. M. until 1863 he became sole proprietor of the
establishment. He had a severe illness in 1878, brought on by
sun-stroke, and was compelled to sell his business, his son Charles
being the purchaser. He married Miss Mary C. Dunlap, of Ver-
mont, 111., in 1852. Grace L., Chas. M., Wm, L., Mary and Effie
C. are their living children. Geo. E. died in infancy.
John M. Sni/der, })roprietor of gas-works, Canton, was born in
Scott county, 111., in 1841 ; his father Gilbert S., was a native of
Pennsylvania, came to Morgan county. 111, near Jacksonville, in
1830, and was a millwright and machinist by trade; he built most
of the mills in the central part of the State. John ]M. served (jov.
Yates as Military Secretary, during the war, and after filling other
responsible positions came to Canton in 1876, and subsequently
erected gas-works which compare favorably with any other of their
size in the State. Has 51 street lamjis now in use, in the central
porti<»n of the city, and there are nearly 200 private consumers.
Works located in the western part of the city.
Phineof! C. Stearns is a native of Lawrence county, X. Y., and is
the son of Phineas and ^lartha (Cooper) Stearns, the former of
Brattleboro, Vt., and his mother of Connecticut. They came to
this county in 1836 and located in Canton. P. C. was educated at
Cazenovia Institute, New York. He has been Associate County
Judge, County Commissioner, and Justice of the Peace for nearly
40 years. He was married in this county in 1836 to Hannah
Rawalt, and has a family of .3 children, — Mary E., wife of Wm. H.
Trites; Randolph H. and Eva May.
B. B. Stevenson, lawyer, was born in Ross county, O., Aug. 20,
1825; began the study of law under the able direction of Judge
Winston Paul at Hillsborough, Highland county, O., in 1846; was
p. Y. CUSTER
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UMVEfblTY Of !L'J
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HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. ot3
admitted to the bar in 1848, and began the praetiee of his jirofession
in his native eity, and edited tlie Hillshorouiili (i(r:cifc. In 1854
he assoeiated himself wtih the J^ar of Jackson eoiintv, and was tlie
choiee of the people to represent Jackson and Vinton counties to
the Legislature in 1857, and served one term as Prosecuting At-
torney in Highland county. For two years after his settling in
Lewistown he was associated ^vith Lewis Ross, which ])artnerslii])
was dissolved two years later. In July 1, 1879, he removed to
Canton, where his ability as a hnvyer is well known, and he is build-
ing up a lucrative practice. He was married to Miss Catherine B.
Kennedy, a native of Va., an estimable lady who died in 1856.
Of their several children one is living, Edwin Lee. His present
wife was Maria Louisa L. Kellv, daughter of W. B. Proctor and
widow of W. B. Kelly.
Dr. 0. G. Strong was born in Ohio, Aug. 12, 1818, and is a son of
Ozias G. Strong, a farmer, lawyer, and a Magistrate for 30 years at
AVilksville. His mother's maiden name was Anice Grcfforv. The
Strong family came from England to the U. S. in the early history
of the country. O. G. was educated in Columbus, and attended
medical lectures and ])racticed the old-school system for several
years ; then moved to St. Louis, and after practicing there a
year moved to Hannibal, to enter into the mercantile business. In
1853 he was elected Marshal and Collector of city revenue, and in
'55 went to La Grange where the following year he was chosen Re-
corder and Pt)lice Magistrate. During his residence in this citv he
changed his views of the practice of medicine to the homeopathic
system, and in 1858 came to Canton and began to practice in the
new system. He graduated at the Medical College of St. Louis
in 1858; and his third son, C. H. Strong, has just graduated in the
New York Medical College, having taken a full course of lectures
both in that city and Cincinnati.
James SfocMdle, fixrmer, WHS born in Yorkshire, Eng., in 1815.
His father, W. Stockdale, married Miss Mary Cook, and with their
family of 8 children came to the U. S. in 1830. Five of these chi Id nni
are living, — James, John, Taber, Caroline and Ann. flames married
Harriet Cutting, native of Essex, Eng., by whom he had 6 children,
3 of whom are living, — Albert J., Amelia and Phoebe, His first
wife dying he married Miss Rachel Penny, by whom he had 6 chil-
dren, 5 of whom are living: Hattie, Grace, May, Laura, Maud,
Edwin J. and Mattie. Mr. S. went to St. Louis in 1839, and in
1849 came to Canton and opened the first meat market here. In
1854 he went into partnership with Stipj) & Maple and carried on
a packing-house, slaughtering 15,000 hogs in one winter. In 1804
sold to Mr. McCall for ^10,000. He now lives near Canton where
he has 2 large cider-presses. Capt. Sidney A. >Stockdale, his eldest
son, enlisted in the 8th HI. Inf. in '61, and was detailed on Gen.
Grant's staif, promoted to Adjutant of the 7th Cav. ; helped get up
the 103d regt. and was Capt. of Co. C, and again assigned to Gen.
35
57-1 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Grant's staff; was Provost Marshal at Nashville; was Deputy Col-
lector at New Orleans. Travehnl for his health in 1S()4, hut died
Dee. 2-'), 1864. Mr. S's second son was 1st Lieutenant of" Co. li.,
17th III. Inf., and died Aug 27, '68.
William M. Swisher, M. D., was horn at Stanton, Augusta Co.,
Va., in 1827. His ]);i rents were Jaeoh and Catherine (Palm) Swisher.
They removed to Mereer Co., A'^a., when he was a small hoy, where
they remained until their death. Dr. S. eame to Farmington, this
county, in 1851 ; one year later moved to Elm wood, where he prac-
ticed until '60, when he came to Canton. He received his education
mostly at Kinsman, O., and at Alleghany College, Meadville, Pa.
He read medicine with Dr. D. B. Packard of Greenville, Pa., for 4
years and during and after this time attended the Cleveland, O.,
Medical College, graduating in 1852. The Doctor, although not
in the regular service as surgeon in the Rehellion, volunteered his
services in a private ca])acity in taking care of the wounded at Fts.
Donelson, Hymen and Henry, and had charge of a ward in the
hospital at Moun City, 111. He married, in 1853, Susan Campbell.
He has but one child, Edwin S. Swisher, also a physician, who has
recently moved to Peoria. He has enjoyed unusual facilities for
acquiring a thorough medical and surgical education. He is a grad-
uate of the medical department of the ITniversity of New York City
and of the New York Medical Institute ; also attended lectures at
Bellevue Hosi)ital Medical College, N. Y., a course at Rush Medi-
cal College, Chicrgo, and in addition several hospital courses, in-
cluding Charity Hospital, New York, Cook Co. liospital, Chicago,
etc.
3[rs. Harriet Tat/lor was born in Buckheart township, this county,
and is the daughter of A. Jackson and Jane (Hcndershot) Whitnali,
both of whom reside in Canton. She was united in marriage with
Samuel Taylor March 17, 1853. He died Sept. 8, 1876. Mr. Taylor
taught school in this county for a few years, moved to Iowa M'ith his
family and engaged in mercantile business at Troy and Ottumwa,
but returned in 1866. Mrs. T. has a family of 7 children ; Ch;is. E.,
Jennie M., Andrew J. Calvin A., Annie M., Allie F. and Evaline.
Chas. mirried Josie Hill, of Harlan, Iowa, March 2, 1879, and now
resides in that State; the other children all live with their mother.
She has ])een a member of the Presbyterian Church for 18 yenrs.
Robert Tdj/lor, deceased, was born in 171)8, iu Nova Scotia, of
Scotch ancestry. His forefathers moved to Ireland, where at Lon-
donderry his grandfather, Matthew Taylor, lived for some time,
and then emigrated to Nova Scotia; but in 171)8 he moved to Ohio,
taking Robert with him. The Intter when grown, first came to In-
diana, then to this Co. in 1831 and married Mary McClcary, a native
of Pennsylvania, and after wintering at Knoxville returned to In-
diana; came back to Illinois in the fall of 1832 and located on sec.
7, this tp., but in 18;}:} bought a fu'in on sec. 6, where he remained
for 33 years, and then, in 1866, he moved to Canton, where he
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 575
died Aug. 29, 187(3, his wife hnvingdied tlie 22d of the same month,
aged 79 years. Their eliildren were Calvin, Jolm M., Samuel W.,
Margaret, Marv Jane, Edward and Angeline. Mr. and Mrs. Taylor
were Presbyterians, he having been an Elder for 50 years. He was
a zealous Republican, but he never took a prominent part in politics.
He had often been asked to be Justice of the Peace, but he always
refused.
James M. Thompson, proprietor of Edgewood Farm, one and a
half miles from Canton, and breeder of blooded stock ; was born
June 1, 1814, at Hackettstown, N. J., and is the son of Lewis and
Sarah (Chidester) Thompson, who came to this county in 1837.
Lewis died in 1847 ; his widow lives with her son, the subject of
this sketch, at the age of 86 years. James M. was in the hardware
business 6 or 7 years in New York city, and during that time spent
2 Avinters in Xew Orleans est-ablishing a branch store there. He
came to this county in 1840, locating in Canton, where he carried
on the dry-goods business for a few years. Pie ke])t the Farmer's
Inn for 3 years, the Fulton House, now the Churchill, I'or 5 years.
He sold this house and took ^13,500 Fulton Co. bonds in payment.
The county rei)udiate(l th(> lionds, and Mr. T. lost the entir(> amount.
He was married at Danville, X. J., Jan., 1841, to Anna R. Flem-
ing. Nine children have been born to them: Sarah, deceased, John
F., Catharine F., Lewis, Samuel M., Chas. I., deceased, Belle, Clara,
deceased, Fraidv. ^Slr. T. commenced farming in 1802 and has a
farm of 410 acres, finely improvetl, and a living spring of water on
every 40 acres. He has made a specialty of feeding Short-Horn
cattle and Berkshire hogs. This business is now carried on by his
sons, S. M. and J. F. Thompson, on his fiarm ; and they have a herd
of 300 licrkshires. They have ])nid as high as |^90O for one hog,
which was imj)orted and on exhibition at the Centennial.
Joseph Thornhorrow, farmer, sec. 9, is a native of Cumberland-
shire, England, where he was born Nov. 23, 1835. His parents
were Wm. and Hannah A. (Cam])bell) Tliornborrow. Thev came
to the U. S. in March, l'S57, and lived in New York for 8 months,
and came to Fulton Co., and have lived here since, with the excep-
tion of about 2 years spent in California. He was married to P^mma
A. Custer in Sept., 1<S04. She is a daughter of P. G. and Hannah
B. (Albright) Custer, who settled in this county in 1857. Wm.
Grant is their only child. The farm ui)on which he resides is the
old Custer homestead, and is the premium farm of the county, and
took the premium when the Fulton Co. Fair was at its height of
prosperity.
George Gruber Trifes, farmer, sec. 31, moved on his ])reseut farm
in 1845 and has resided there since. He nuirried at Phila(l('l|)hia,
Pa., Louisa Davis. They have had 10 children born to them, all
of whom are living: Larena D., wife of Theo. Barnard; Geo. D.
lives at Mt. Pleasant, Iowa; Caj)t. Wm. H. ; Milan; Lydia ; Eliza;
Margaret ; Louisa married Chas. M. Lilly ; Lewis E. ; John and
576 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Susan. Wm. H. enlisted in ITtli Til. Inf. as Sergt. for 100 days,
then for 3 vears ; was promoted 1st Lieut., then Cn})t. L( wis E. and
George D.also served in the late war. Both Mr. and Mrs. T. are
members of the New Jerusalem Church ; Mr. T. for 56 years and
Mrs. T. for 63 years. Our subject was born in Delaware Co., Pa.,
i 1 Oct., 1801, and came to Illinois in 1844. His parents were ^^'m.
and Lvdia (Trainor) Trites. Mrs. T.'s parents were Ocorge and
Esther (Griffith) Davis, whose forefathers ci-me to Pennsylvania
with Wm. Penn. Michael Trites, the grandparent of Mr. T., came
to America before the Revolution and served in that war.
George W. Tucker is a native of Farmington township, where he
was born in Nov., 1849. He married Mary Durhmd, of Fairview
tp., who has borne him one child, Cordia Myrtle. His parents were
Eleven and Catharine (Lake) Tucker, the former born near Cincin-
nati, O., and the latter in the city. They came to this county about
1828 and settled in Fairview tp., but in 5 years bought a iarm on
sec. 4, Farmington tp. Eleven Tucker ditd in June, 1M5, leaving
a widow and 5 children : Henry AV., J. Madison, Geo. W., Hannah
A. and Chas. M. James M. is single and resides with his mother
on the old homestead. Eleven Tucker occupied a prcmin(nt posi-
tion in Farmington tp., and was respected by all who knew him,
and left his family in good circumstances.
Jane Van Miildlesworth, Canton tp., was born Sept. 28, 1809, in
New Jersey ; her father, John Addis, also a native of that State,
died in 1876 at the age of 94; her mother, Ann McCullom, also a
native of New Jersey, died in 1839, at the age of 54 years; her
maiden name was Addis; she was married in 1832, and came to this
ccmntv in 1835, with her husband, who died in June, 1867; their
children are Waldron, Addis, James (died in infiincy), James and
Marv Elizabeth. Addis served in Co. E, 103d 111. Inf Mrs. Van
M. is a member of the Christian Church. Her father was a distil-
ler, furniture dealer and lastly a plow and wagon manuflicturer.
Her husband was a Democrat' Mrs. Y. since her husband's death
has been a very active worker as the estate proved to be les> than
was expected. ' She bought and sold land, making money in every
transaction, and to-day she has her children all located in good
homes with prospects for future prosperity. Even at the age of 70
she is a better financier than many of her juniors.
D. ir. Vittum is one of the oldest settlers now living in the
county, and one of its most prominent business men, being person-
allv identified with very important business interests in Canton for 40
years, and now President of the National Bank. He was born at
Sandwich, Strafford Co., N. H., in 1810, and first came to this coun-
tv in Dec, 1835, at which time, as nearly as Mr. V. now recollects,
Canton was a place of some 200 inhabitants. Having brought with
him goods suitable to stock a general store, he rented a building for
that purpo.se on the corner of Prairie and Union streets. During
the first vear he erected a stone-building on the southwest corner of
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 577
the square, and now occupied as a meat market. Ever since then
Mr. V. has been actively cno;aged in various kinds of" business. The
first year of his business here money was plenty with almost every-
body, and continued to be until 1837, the year of the great panic.
During the early part of that year he had been to New York and
bought $40,00u worth of goods, but had scarcely unpacked them
when the panic struck the country, and it was impossible to sell
goods for cash. He had bougiit his stock on time, as was the cus-
tom, and the inability to sell for cash caused great embarrassment
to business. But extensions being granted by Eastern creditors
and renewed from time to time for about 5 years, all obliga-
tions were met and the people once more free. Mr. V. was mar-
ried at Canton in 18«38 to Celinda B. White, of Long Island, N. Y.
The children by this marriage were: George B., now merchant of
Canton ; So])hia, who died at the age of 3, and Celinda, who died
in infancy. Mrs. V. died in 1850. He married in December of
1850 Harriet S. Childs, of York, N. Y. Their children are Chas.
C, Fred D. and Will. C., all living in Canton.
Nathaniel Vitium was born in N. H. in 1804; his father, Tufton
v., was a native of the same State, and married Dollie Weed, also
a native of N. H. ; they had 3 children, — Sallie (now Mrs. Vittum),
Nathaniel and D. W. They came to Fulton Co. about 1836.
Nathaniel came to Canton in 1837, purchased 480 acres of land,
and has followed farming ever since. He married Miss Clara
Palmer, a native of N. H., and they have had three children, —
Sarah Jane, Daniel and Martin Van Buren, deceased. Mr. V. now
occupies his residence in Canton.
William Waddle, blacksmith, was born in Pennsylvania in 1831,
and came to Peoria Co. in 1855, and engaged at his trade until the
war broke out; then lie joined the 55th HI. Inf. and engaged in the
camj):iign from Paducah to the evacuation of Corinth. Mr. W.
served his apprenticeship at Pittsburg, Pa., and has worked at his
trade 31 years. He has made the study of geology a specialty, and
has a fine collection of the stony corals, gathered within a circuit of
10 miles of Canton. They embra(^e the most interesting geological
specimens of this section, as the stomatopores, madrepores, astrjeas,
calcite, syringo])ores, etc.
Jacob Y. Wallack, ice dealer, was born in the Buckeye State in
18 44, and came to Knox Co., 111., in 1848, and reared on a farm,
and at the age of 21 learned the art of photography and followed it
for 3 years, when he^entered the army and served 2 years; after his
disch:U'ge he embarked in the milling business at Buckheart, 111., and
at the end of 5 years came to Canton and entered the ice business,
at which he has been engaged for the past G years. He also has the
rainagement of Crystal Spring Lake and picnic grounds, situated
about one mile from the Square. T\w lake is 20 rods in width and
70 in length, on which he has 10 pleasure boats and a small wheel-
steamer with capacity of carrying 30 grown people and 40 children,
578 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
thus affordint; tlic residents of Canton and vicinity a most delight-
ful resort for picnics and parties.
ArfliKi- Wdlkcr, attorney, of the firm of Whitney, Walker &
Walker, is a son of the late Henry Walker, and was born in Can-
ton, Aui>-. 15, 1S.")4. He was educated partly at the Canton High
School and hejian the study of law at the age of 19. He attended
the law departnient of the Michigan University for 2 years, and
July 4, 1877, on completion of his studies, was admitted to the Bar.
Daniel W. Walker was born in Windham county, Yt., in 1835.
His father, Bliss Walker, was of the same county ; Edward Walker,
his grandfather, was one of the pioneers of the State of Vermont
and a soldier in the Revolution. His mother was Lovina Newell,
of the same place; left for Mississippi in 1852; returned to Roches-
ter, Mass., and taught in the Academy for 2 years; came west in
1857 and located in Canton, and since has been closely engaged in
business. He was married to Miss ^Slather E. Walter, daughter of
Dr. James Walter, of Canton, in May, 1858. Lillie S., Mather E.,
Edward, Xellie and Frederick are their children.
Henri/ Walker, deceased, was a native of Xew York City. His
parents were of Scotch descent and strong Presbyterians, and they
determined to educate their son for the ministry ; but before his
studies were completed, it not Ijeing agreeable to him, he left school
and home when quite young and began for himself, although his
parents were wealthy. He traveled quite extensively, both in
Europe and the United States, and finally located at La Porte, Ind.,
doing a })lastering and mason business. He came to Canton in
1834 and followed the same business for several years, and erected
many of the prominent buildings. He held many responsible
official ])usitions, and was an active member of the Democratic
party. During the last 16 years of his life, was actively engaged
in the jiractice of law. He married at La Porte, Ind., Mary Hines.
TheJr children both living and dead are : Emily, deceased ; Jeifer-
son, deceased; Job, who was County Treasurer from 1874 to '78 and
now lives at Atlantic, la.; Alfred, Harriet and Leonidas, all de-
ceased; and Meredith, Ann and Arthur, living in the county.
Hon. Meredith Walker, of the law firm of Whitney, Walker &
Walker, was born at Canton in 1848, received his education at the
Canton schools, read law from the age of 10 years, and was admitted
to the Bar July 19, 1874. He was elected to the Illinois State
Senate from the 25th District in 1878 and occupied a seat in that
bodv durinjr it"^ 31st session. He is the vonng-est member of the
Senate, being only 29 years old when elected. He was married
!March 3, 1874, to Ada Hazen, daughter of John Hazen, of Canton.
]Mr. W. is a strong adherent to the Democratic party.
R. Whiteleji was born in Yorkshire, England, in 1822, came
to r^\nton in 1849, and began work at 'Si 4 jicr month. He fi)llowed
brick-making and eventually bought the j)roperty where he first
conimeuced to work, and where a fine bank of clay some 12 feet
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 579
deep aiFords abundant material for brick-making. He married
Elizabeth Royle, in England, by whom he has had a family of 5
children, 2 of whom are living in Canton, — George and Thomas.
His first wife died and he married Elizabeth Richards, of Franklin
county, Pa.
Abram B. Whitenack, farmer, a native of Cayuga Co., N. Y.,
where he was born in 1825. He came to this county in 1850, and
located on sec. 16, Canton tp., where he now resides. In 1851 he
married Sarah Ann Hazen at her father's, John Hazen, in
Canton tp. Mr, W.'s parents were Andrew and Hannah (John-
son) Whitenack, the former of New Jersey and the latter of
Pennsylvania. Mr. H. helped to build the first frame house in
Canton. They had 9 children, — Elisha, Zaba, Susan M., Mary,
Sarah A., Elizabeth, John, Hannah and Jacob. All the girls are
married and now livinp; in the countv, and all the bovs are dead.
Joseph B. Whittnore was born in Frederick Co., Md., May 14,
1807. His parents were Jonah and Catharine (Smith) Whitmore.
His mother was a daughter of Capt. John Smith of the Revolution-
ary war. His father was a native of Maryland, and moved to
Pennsylvania in 1811, where he farmed until 1844; then he came
to Fulton Co., locating on sec. 19, Orion tp., where he farmed until
his death in 1845. His wife died July 16, 1868. Joseph B. was
united in marriage with Ann Harcleroad, a native of Bedford Co.,
Pa. They had 7 children, — H. Jackson, Mary Jane, Simon Peter,
Ann Eliza, David, Lizzie and James. Mj-s. W. died June 30,
1845. His second wife was Catharine Lavton, — Mrs. Frost at the
time of marriage. He owns a farm on sec. 30, Orion tp., but re-
sides in Canton.
Andrew J. Whitnah, fiirmer, was born at West Liberty, W. Va.,
Feb. 23, 1815. His father, William Burns Whitnah, a native of
Virginia, moved his family to Livingston Co., N. Y., in 1819, and
farmed for 13 years; he then lived 4 years in Michigan. Andrew
J. married Miss Elizabeth J. Hendershott, of New York, April
12, 1836, and 2 days later the entire family started in wagons for
Galena, 111., but on reaching Ottawa, so difficult was it to obtain
provisions that they were diverted from their purpose, and follow-
ing down the Illinois river, came to Fulton county, where, with
few changes, they have remained since and are now residing on a
fine farm adjoining Canton. They have had 11 children, 5 of
whom are living : Harriet, the widow of Taylor, of Canton tp. ;
Hiram A., of Buckheart tp. ; Joseph C, on the old homestead in
Buckheart ; Andrew J., jr., of Lewistown tp., and Effie J., at home.
W. H. Wil.son, son of John B. Wilson, an early settler, is a
native of Buckheart tp., this county, and was born in 1847. He
is now farming on sec. 36, Canton tp. He married in Dec., 1868,
Miss Mary Shriner, daughter of John Shriner, deceased. His
widow is living with W. H. Wilson, her son-in-law, on the old
homestead. W^ R. enlisted in the 7th 111. Cav. in 1864, then be-
ing only 17 years old, and served 18 months.
580 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Ashcr Wrir/hf, farmer, sec. 16, was born in Canton township, and
is the son of John M. Wrio;ht, one of the early settlers, dating back
to 1834. Deacon Koyal Wright, Asher's gran<lj)arent, came to this
county in 1834. His son, John M., worked and owned the home-
stead on sec. 20 until his death in 1859. Asher was married in
February, 1877, to Julia E. Sanford, a native of Vermont, at Can-
ton. They now live on the old homestead of 220 acres.
H. L. Wriyht, merchant, was born in Canton, 111., in 1832, and
has lived here ever since. He began business with his brother, X.
S. Wright, in 18oo, with a general stock of goods. He has been a
member of the Board of Aldermen and is now President of the
Board of Education. He was united in marriage with Miss Carrie
D. Hall, of Canton, in 1855. Annie L., Frank C. and Clara are
their children. He is a member of the Congregational Church.
Joel M right, deceased, Avas born in Hanover, X. H., in 1792;
married Miss Emily Phelps, a native of Palmyra, X. Y., by whom
he had 4 children, the 2 surviving being H. L. and X. S., now of
Canton. The latter married ]Miss Laura Kelley, of Lewistown,
HI., in 1874, and has one son, William K, Joel W. emigrated to
this State in 1818 and settled at Edwardsville. In 1820 moved to
Monto-omerv countv and was elected Sheriff in '21. He moved to
Galena and then to this county in 1828, and July, '29, was mar-
ried to Emily Phelps. She died in 1861. In 1830 he was elected
to the State Senate. He commenced merchandising in Canton in
1830. In 1832 he w^as appointed Postmaster, which position he
held for many years. He was appointed one of the Commissioners
to carry out the great system of internal impro\^^ment of the State
in 1837, He belonged to a long-lived family. The ages of his
great-grandfather and mother and 10 children aggregate 642 years.
Hon. Granrille Barverc, one of the most prominent attorneys of
the Fulton County Bar, .and now residing at Canton, was born at
Hillsboro, Highland county, Ohio, July 11, 1831. His father's
name was John M. Barrere, who was a merchant at Hillsboro and
native of Ky. He gave his son Granville the benefit of a liberal
education which was acquired at Augusta College, Ky., and Mari-
etta College, O. The subject of this sketch commenced his legal
studies in 1852, in the law office of his uncle, Xelson Barrere, at
Hillsboro; read law in this office for about 3 years, when he was
admitted to the Bar at Chillicothe, O., in the flill of 1854. In
1855 he first came to Illinois, finally locating at Canton and com-
menced the practice of law, in which profession he soon took a
prominent and leading ])osition which he has retained until the pres-
ent time; has taken an active part in j)olitics, being a "stalwart"
supi^orter of Ivepul)licanism ; he was nominated and elected by that
party in 1872, to rejjresent them at the 43d U. S. Congress from the
9th Congressional District; served until 1876, when he returned to
his legal practice at Canton.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
581
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a list of almost all of the township officials serv-
ing since the organization of the township, together with the years of
serving :
SUPERVISORS.
Ira Johnson 1850
Jesse McCutchen 1851
Henry Walker 1852-59
To\vnsen<l Atwater 1860
.Tames H. Stipp 1861-62
William Parlin, at^st., 1861-62
Ira Johnson 1863
.Tames Stockdale 1865-67
John G. Piper, axst., 1866
Al)raham ('. Moore, asst., 1867
Granville Barrere 1:68-72
Noah Havermale, asst., 1868
Benj. F?ohrer, oRS^, 1869
Noah Havermale, asst., 1870
Andrew B. Hulit, asst., 1871
D. Abbott, asst., 1872
A. B. Hnlit 1873
D. W. Sloss, asst., 1873
R. W. Dewey 1874
A. B. Hnlit, asst., 187-4
Carroll C. Dewey 1875
Granville Barrere 1875-79
D. F. Emry, asst., 1875-77
James W. McCutchen 1878-79
TOWN CLERKS.
A.J. Scott 1860-67
J. S. Murphv 1868-71
David A. Snyder 1872
L. C. Mavnard 187.3-78
JohnB. Fleming 1879
ASSESSORS.
Andrew Wills 1860
Thomas W. Snyder 1861
Andrew Wills 1866-73
Walter P. Tanquarj' 1873
Noah Havermale 1874
Sands N. Breed 1875-79
COLLECTORS,
Christian Haines 1860-62
Joel W. Dewey 1863
Reuben C. Thomas 1864
D. F. Snvder 1865
Isaac N.Ellis 1866
Georjre V. Coe 1867
Jacob.S. Frederick 1868
Joseph H. Pierce 1869
Chas. T. Coleman 1870
George W. Munnick 1871
Wm. A. .Tackson 1872
George C. Brant 1873
Chas. M. Stewart 1874
(^has. Blakesley 1875
T. H. Fleminsr 1876
George S. McCcmnell 1877
Wm. Cotherill 1878
Jesse Ruble 1879
CASS TOWNSHIP.
This township was named by Henry Waiijjhtel, in 1850, in honor
of Gon. Lswis Cass, of the war of 1812, Governor of Michigan,
U. S. Senator, Secretary of war under Jackson, and Secretary of
State under Jiueiianan. William Totten was the first to locate in
the township. He came in 1823 and settled upon the southwest
quarter of section 27, upon what was afterwards known as " Totten's
Prairie." About the same time Roswell Tyrrell and John Totten
located upon the same section. The former was a soldier of the
war of 1812, came to this couuty in 1832, and Feb. 22 of the same
vear he was married to Miss Marv Ann Sidwell, near Lewistown.
This lady died in May, 1828, as we tind stated in a biographical sketch
of Mr. Tyrrell published in the history of McDonough c(ninty, to
which county he removed in 1830. Yet we are told that Mrs. Tyr-
rell died in 1^2(3, and hers was the first death to occur in the town-
ship. History states that the first sermon in the township was
preached by Rev. Mr. Lee, a M. E. preacher, at the house of Thomas
Camron ; but Henry Waughtel tells us that he knows the first ser-
mon was preached by Rev. Wm. Batson, the Christian (New-Light)
minister who preached the funeral of Mrs. Tyrrell in May of that
year, 182o. Tliere is evidently some discrepmcy between these
statements, as they fail to harmo!iize. In 1854 Thomas Camron
came into the township and settled upon section 28. Others who
came were Henry Biuighman, sr., Henry Waughtel, sr., Benjamin
Camron, Matthew Park, William Batson, Zenas Harrington, Levi
Dnnnewain, T. J. Walters, Fred and Henry Waughtel, jr., John,
Henry, jr., David S., Daniel and Abram Baughman, jr., Abram
Baughmin, sr., and others. Among those living who came here in
a very early day, are Henry Waughtel, jr., Wm. Camron, James
C. Watson, James Murphy and Aunt Katie Totten. The first mar-
riage ceremony was performed on the l<)th of Feb., 1826, and was at
the wedding of Salmon Sherwood to Miss Jane Cameron, sister of
Wm. Camron. of Sniitliticld. The first birth was that of ^largaret,
daughter of Win. and Katharine Totten, May 14, 1825. The first
.school was taught by D. S. Baughman in 1829. The first Ju.stice
of the Peace was John Totten, in 1825. The fir.<;t church building
was erected by the Methodists on the farm of Jesse Tate, near
Smitiifield, in 184J>. Henry Waughtel was the first Supervisor
from Cass. The jiresent incumbent is A. S. Watson. There are
ten school districts and six Church organizations in the township.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 583
The pioneers of Cass had hardships to suffer as well as those in other
parts of the county. During the big snow of 1830 great suffering
was occasioned. During the droutii of 1840 and the wet season of
1844 for several weeks the j)e()ple were compelled to eat boiled
wheat, or meal made in the hominy-block. A horainy-block con-
sisted of a stump in which a hollow place had been burned. In this
they put their corn and pounded it with an iron wedge. Wild hogs
and deer were plentiful in an early day throughout this section.
Wm. Camron, in company with Henry Waughtel, Mr. McKinney,
and two other gentlemen, killed 30 head of hogs and pigs on one
excursion. Nathan Henderson, father of Isaac Henderson, of this
township, said that he killed a deer in an early day which weighed
19*2 pounds net. The timber of this township is tilled with a thick
undergrowth, but in an early day it contained only a sparse growth
of oak timber with abundance of tall grass all over the land, from
which the settlers made their hay. They actually made hay in the
woods.
Henrv Waughtel is the only man now living in the township
who fought in the Black Hawk war. Some who reside here remem-
ber having seen the great chief. Joseph Lundry, now eighty-eight
years of age, and who lives with Isaac Henderson, saw Black Hawk
in Canada. Wm. Totten and others built a fort on Totten's prairie
during the Winnel)ago troubles. Black Hawk was very friendly to
the Tottens and would not allow his braves to disturb them, even
during the war. He oftened visited Totten's and shot at a target
with Mr. Totten as a pastime. The first saw-mill in Cass was built
by Mr. I^aswell.
' In May, 1850, this township was visited by a very disastrous
hailstorm. It stri])i)ed the trees of their foliage, ruined the growing
crops, killed a great deal of stock and fatally injured some persons.
On the 'iOth of March, 1877, little Jinimie Couch, a boy of eight
summers, while on his way home from school stojiped by the way-
side with the other children to gather some early spring flowers.
By some means he got out of sight and hearing of his comj)anions,
and thev went home without him. The alarm of a "lost boy" was
raised, the neighbors turned out and search was nuide, but no trace
of him was discovered until the next morning. He was traced by
spots of blood that his little scratched and torn feet had left upon
the ground. He waded the lakes and ])<»nds in Pleasant Valley, on
Spoon river, in water up to his arm-pits. His steps during the last
half-mile of this fatal march were only six inches in length. The
little hero was found that morning lying dead upon the river bank
just above Buckeye ferry in this townshij). One hand was thrown
over his head; in the other he held his little cap.
SMITHFIELD.
The only village in this township isSmithfield, which was founded
in 1868 by James Smith. The original site was upon the southeast
584 HISTORY OF FULTON (X)UNTY.
quarterof the northeast quarter of see. 29. During; the same year Mr.
Hiram Higgins added the "Higgins' addition," which lies directly
soutli of the al)ove. Soon afterwards ^^'i]lianl Camron laid off his
addition. The business portion of the town now lies almost entirely
in Higgins' and Camron's additions. It is quite a business center,
and contains two general stores, two drug stores, one hardware
store, two wagon and blacksmith shops, two hotels, post-office, and
a saw-mill. Three physicians reside here. The T., P. & W. Rail-
road passes through the town, making it quite a shipping point.
CHURCHES.
Antioch Christian Church. — This people is more commonly
known as New-Light Christians. lu 18(31 two classes of this de-
nomination were organized, one at the Hanchett school-house, and
the other at the Medley school-house in Harris township. In 1866
these congregations united and erected a house of worship in Smith-
field. There are at present 45 communicants connected with the
Church.
Pleasant Grove M. E. Church was organized in the summer of
1867 by Rev. Mr. Stout, with a membership of 15. Meetings were
held in the Medley school-house, Harris townshi]), until 1872, when
their present structure was erected in this township. The presen^^
membership is 30' Rev. J. E. Rutledge, Pastor.
>Sniitnjicld M. E. Church was organized in the fall of 1839 in th ^
house of J. S. Fate, with that gentleman as class-leader. For two
years meetings were held in private houses; then the neighboring
school-house was used as a place of worship for several years.
About the year 1849 or 1850 a log house was built upon Mr. Fate's
farm in which they assembled until it became too old and uncom-
fortable. The place of worshij) was then changed to the new school-
house, where it remained until the ))resent edifice was erected, which
was in 1873, except for a period of one year when the Christi:in
church at Smithheld was used. Four of the early converts, M. D.
Heck ird, John Xate, John B.irtells and \Vm. Calhoun, became itin-
erant ministers. The present membership is 40. Rev. J. E. Rut-
ledge, Pastor.
Mt. Pleasant Christian Church was org-anized by Elder J. R.
Welsh April 26, 1863, with about a dozen members. The first dis-
course delivered by a minister of this denomination in thi^< neigh-
borhood was at the hr)use of Win. Petersdu in 1860. This was the
first sermon preached in this vicinity for filteen years. The congre-
gation was organized and met for worship in the Buckeye school-house
until their i)resent structure was erected, which was in 1862. There
seems to have been an organizition previous to the erection of the
building, but there being no record of" the fact we give the above
date ot organization as recorded in the clerk's books. The mem-
bership at present numbers oo. The Pastor is Elder Allen \\ heeler.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 585
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
Ill order to detail more i'uUy the history of the town and town-
.shij), we will speak personally of the leading and representative
eitizens :
John C. A)if}iony, M. 7)., Smithfield ; was born in Mercer Co.,
Pa., Feb. 1, 1852. He is the son of" Benjamin A. and Fanny A.
Antliony; came to this county in 1854; was educated mostly in
common schools and Abingdon College. The doctor attended both
Rush and Missouri Medical Colleges, graduating at the latter
March 4, 1875; commenced jM-acticing April 4, 1875, in Marble-
town, this countv. He remained there three years and was success-
ful, but suffered many trials that young physicians are heir to.
From there he removed to Table Grove, thence to Smithfield.
While at Marbletown the Doctor was united in matrimony with
Charlotte J. Markley. One child was born to them, but died in
infanciy. By close attention to his work and hard study he has
gained a lasting reputation.
John H. Baughman was born in Ashland (then Richland) Co.,
O., Sept. .'), 1826; came to this county with his ])arents in 18:>0;
educated in the common schools of Fulton county and entered into
the dry -goods and grocery business in Canton, Fulton Co., in 1856,
and in 1864 established a nursery in Canton. His store and dwell-
ing were burned in 1871, and he established a nursery in Smithfield
in 1874, whence he removed in 1876 and where he still resides;
was married to Sarah Pomeroy in 1845, by whom he has had 8
children, — Samantha C, born Mav 14, 1846; Martha J. (deceased),
Nov. 21, 1848; Walter P., Julv" 12, 1850; Laura N., Nov. 28,
1853; Fmma, Oct. 30, 1857; Ella, Mav 21, 1861; Marv H., July
12, 1863; Cordelia, Dec. 11, 1864. P."0., Smithfield.
Joseph E. BdKc/hman, son of Samuel and Eliza (Camron) Baugh-
man, of Cass township, was born, raised and educated in Cass town-
ship near Smithfield. His father came to this county in 1831, being
one of the early settlers ; was a cooi)er in younger days, but is a
nurseryman and farmer at ])resent. lie was fond of the chase, and
frequently shot deer from his porch. The subject of this sketch,
Mr. J. E. liaughraan, is an enterprising young farmer, but 21 years
old ; was early taught to cook, bake, wash and iron, etc., his mother
being an invalid since he was 7 years old. He worked l)y the
month since 13 years of age until recently. P. O., Smithfield.
Jacob Bayless, farmer; P.O., Cuba; was born in Brighton, N.
Y., Nov. 14, 1808; moved with his parents to Ohio in 1S12, by
schooner on the lakes. There being no canal around Niagara Falls
at that time, his father hired the boat hauled around the Falls by
horse-team. As he passed by Buffalo he saw chimneys standing of
houses that the British had burned during the Revolution. His
father, Richard Bayless, served in the war of 1812. Mr. B. heard
586 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
the cannon firing when the British attempted to hmd at Sackett's
Harbor. He was the first J. P. after township organization, and
served two terms ; has served as School Trnstec, School Director,
Town Clerk and Supervisor; has been married twice, and is the
father of 11 children, 7 of whom are living. Mr. B. is a notetl
bee-hunter. The following is an extract from his journal : "July,
1865, rith bee-tree found about a mile south of bee-tree No. 1 1, on
the north side of a branch, and north of an old field on the creek
bottom in a red oak; l-'Uh found in limb of a large elm, half mile
north of the mouth of Coal creek on Spoon river."
Milton L. Beadles, P. O., Smithfield. One of the first-class teach-
ers of Cass tp. is our sul)jeet, who was born in this township Fel).
It
1860. His father, James H. Beadles, of Cass tp., was born in
]5ernadotte township Feb. 17, 1832. He has always been a farmer,
and is at present one of the leading agriculturists in this part of
the county. J. H. B.'s father, Joel Beadles, entered the laud now
occupied l)v the Beadles family, viz: southea'^t quarter of section 32.
Our sul))ect received a good common-schocjl education, being a pu])il
of the popular Mr. J. H. Benton, County School Superintendent. Mr.
B. pays his own expenses while in school, with the well-earned
money that he accumulates while teaching. Mr. James H. Beadles
built, during the fall of 1879, a fine Iwo-story frame dwelling,
which adds very much to the beauty of his farm.
Caleb Boyer, farmer, sec. 21 ; P. O., Smithfield ; was i)oru in
Licking county, O., Sept. 3, 1824. He came to this county in 1839 ;
has been married twice and is father of 11 children. His second
wife had four by first husband, making 15 in all, and all of whom
are living. He united with the U.B. Church in 1843. Is 55 years
old, and has been in a court-house but once.
Henry Brook, farmer and stock-raiser; born in Germany in 1825.
his parents, Philip and Elizabeth Brock, natives of Germany, im-
migrated to this county in 1S38, and entered 160 acres of land.
Mr. B. was married to Caroline Wilhelm in 1857, by whom he had
() children, — John W., born Feb. 4, 1858; Caroline E.,born, 1861 ;
Amelia, born Jan. 1, 1865; Henry C, born in 1<S68; Chas. T.,
born in 1870; Pliilij) L., born Jan. 28, 1873. Mr. Brock, when
first beginning in life had but little, but energy and superior man-
agement has made him possessor of 320 acres of the best land in
Cass township. P. ()., Smithfield.
John Brock, farmer; P. ()., Smithfield. Mr. B. is a native of
Germany, and is a son of Phili}) and brother of Henry Brock,
whose biography also appears just above. He served one term
as Collector, and at present is School Director; was married March
14, '50, to Amanda M. Watson. They have lieen blessed with five
children, four of whom are living, — Alonzo G., John F., Wm. H.,
and Melinda J. Mr. and Mrs. B. are members of the United
Brethren Church.
Daniel Cathernian, farmer; sec. 14; P. O., Cuba. To Jacob and
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 587
Susan (Spicklomire) Cathcrman there was born in Union Co., Pa.,
Juno, 1<S1(), a son, the subject of tlii.s ])ersonal sketch. He removed
Avitii his parents to Crawford Co., Pa., thence to Ashland (then l\ich-
hmd) county, O. ; came to tliis county in '.37. He was ethicated in
the select schools of Pennsylvania. He was married in Dec, '38,
to Abigail Kuvkendall, bv whom he had six children. Daniel and
iSIargaret are married and livino- in Cass townshij) near their parents.
Susan married Henry Hinderliter, and lives near New Philadelphia,
111. The father of Mrs. C. is i)4 years old and can walk from 10
to 15 miles a day, and very fretpiently does. He lives in Liverpool
township. Mrs. C. is a member of the Christian Church. ]\Ir. C.
took wheat to Chicago in '42 and sold it for 48 cents jn-r bushel.
Peter Christian, firmer and stock-raiser; P. i)., Cuba; was born
Dec. 23, 1817, in Plattsburo-, N. Y; removed with his parents to
Troy, X. Y., in '32, came to this county in '36. He saved a man
from drowning; in S})Oon river during; the freshet in '44; has been
Com. of Hio'hwavs and School Director. He was nnited in mar-
riage with Mary A. Johnson, June 20, 1841, by whom he had 4
children, 2 of whom are living;, — Melissa C. and Pollie F. Mr. C.
is a a Free-will Baptist minister, and a self-made man, having
received but nine months schooling (in Troy) in his life.
Justus I)e(iki)is was born in Belmont county, ()., May 18, 1827.
He moved to Knox county, ()., then to Fulton county, HI., in 1855.
His ]>arents, Richard and Ann (Aikins) were natives of Maryland.
Mr, D. has served as Road Commissioner 4 years. School Director
6 vears ; has lived in Iowa two years. He was married INIarch H,
'42, in Richland (now Ashland) Co., O., to Margaret Statler, by
whom he had 9 children, of whom G are living, — Geo., Ann, Sclas-
ticque, Justus, Ella and Scpiire. Mrs. D. died July 29, '77. Mr.
D. is a faithful mem1)er of the M. ?1 Church, and is engaged in farm-
ing and stock-raising. P. O., Cuba.
James A. Ellis, farmer, sec. 17; P. ()., Smithiield ; was born near
Ipava, this county, Nov. 6, 1850. His father, John Ellis, was one
of the early settlers of Fulton Co. His mother was Lorena B.
Ellis, nee Camron. James attended the scliools of this county and
gained a fair education. In 1<S7G he was united in marriage with
Mary E. Brown. They have one son, Samuel W., and their little
girl baby, born May 24, 1X79, had not received its name when we
called upon ^Nlr. E.
James M. Fate, farmer and <tock-raiser, sec. 33; P. ()., Smithiield ;
was born and raised in this county. His father, Jesse Fate, was a
native of Licking Co., O. He was a conductor upon the famous
Under-ground R. R. He is the father of the M. E. Church at
Smithfield. The first church in the township was built u])on his
land in about 1849 or '50. James M. served his country faithiully
in the Rebellion, and took an active part in the battles of Ft. Don-
elson, Corinth and others. He was a member of Co. G, 5()th HI.
Inf. His brother George served in the same company. He Avas
588 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
married to Mary E. Douglas, Sopt. 7, 1865. Their children num-
ber 7, — Emma L., Carrie A., Charles W., George, Mary F., Jesse
E. and an infant girl. He united with the M. E. Church in 1875.
Jefise S. Fate, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O., Smithfield ; is a na-
tive of Licking Co., O., and was born Aug. 9, 1817; was married
June 15, 1837, to Miss Sarah H. Harbert. They have a family of
5 children living, out of 11 born to them. Both Mr. and Mrs. F.
are n)embers of the M. E. Church, and Mr. F. is a local preacher,
and earnest and sincere in his professions. He came to this county
in 1839. He formerly voted with the Liberty party; was a strong
anti-slavery man, and says the line of the Under-ground railroad
passed through Cass tp. not far from his residence. His sous,
George R. and James M., served in the Rebellion.
Jacob Fink, merchant, Smithfield. The subject of this sketch
is a native of Germany, and was born in 1835; was educated in
Germany in the common schools ; formerly a stock-raiser, but is now
engaged in the mercantile business. Mr. Fink began in life with
nothing, and now is comfortably situated ; served in the late Rebel-
lion ; enlisted in 1861 in Co. D, 55th 111. Inf. as a private, and by
his gallant service was promoted to First Lieut, and honorably dis-
charged as such. He re-enlisted in Hancock's Veteran Corps in
March, '65, as private, and was again promoted to Lieut. He is
one of the fortunate men who drew the large bounty. He was in
Washiuffton when Lincoln was assassinated. The Lieut, still has
the sword and Sharp's rifle that he carried while in the service ; was
in 20 engagements and came out without a scratch ; was married to
Samantha C. Baughman, Julv, 1866, bv whom he has three bovs, —
Henry B., born May 11,1867; Walter P., born Aug. 8, 1870;
John J., born March 13, 1873.
Franklin H. Hart, farmer, sec. 8 ; P. C, Smithfield ; was born in
Onondaga Co., X. Y,, Jan. 22, 1832; came to this county in 1848;
served three vears and two months in the Rebellion, in 1st Mo.
Engineers' regt., the greater portion of the time in Co. K, anda
portion of the time in Co. C, and filled the cajiacity of cook ; he
now serves as School Director; was married Mar. 15, 1852, to Katha-
rine Baughman; 12 children are the result of this union, 7 of whom
are living. Mr. and Mrs. H. are members of the Smithfield M. E.
Church. Mr. H. has operated a saw-mill for 12 years; has lived
three years in Kansas.
Isaac Henderson, son of Nathan Henderson of this township,
was born Dec. 5, 1828, in Fayette Co., O. He removed with his
parents to Bernadotte township in 1843, and to Cass township in
'44; was educated in the common schools of Ohio. Mr. H. has
served the j)eople of Cass as Constable for 14 years; has also been
Commissioner t)f Highways, and was the first School Trustee in the
township, after the township organization in 1850, and served one
term as Justice of the Peace. He was married Aug. 1, '49, to
Elizabeth Fast. They have been blessed with 9 children. Martin,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 591
a very intelligent boy, when 15 years old, while running through
the corn-field one day, took hold of a cockle-burr with his teeth,
that was clinging to his mitten, and beginning to cough at the same
instant, violently drew the burr down his trachea into his lungs.
After retaining it in his lungs four years, he at last coughed it up
in 1874, He died from the effects in '77. Mrs. H. is a member of
the Protestant Methodist Church. Mr. H. was formerly a lawyer,
but is a farmer at present. P. O., Cuba.
Albert Herbert. There was born to John and Rebecca (Long)
Herbert, in Ashland Co., O., March 26, 1823, a son, the subject of
this sketch. He came to this county in 1836, and is engaged in
farming and stock-raising ; P. O,, Smithfield. His father died when
he was quite young, and he was bound out three times ; went to
California overland in 1849 ; was six months and four days complet-
ing the journey. He was taken sick at Ft. Laramie ; the company
left him there after giving him |25 and an ox team, telling him to
return to the State. He waited until one o'clock p. m., when he
threw away a part of his clothing, bed and ammunition, mounted
one of the oxen and overtook the company at dark of the same
day. He recovered, went through to the Golden State and re-
turned. Mr. H. when a boy, in 1836, came near losing his life
by freezing. He was sent to a neighbor's on an errand, and
a very sudden change in the weather taking place at that hour, he
became very sleepy and was on the point of stopping to lie down,
when the thought of freezing instilled new energy in him. In
1840, while living in Cuba, he and a brother were engaged in cut-
ting wood on the Illin-ois river, and were caught in another fearful
storm. The brother became sleepy, and Mr. H. procured a switch
and applied it severely, which aroused the anger of the brother and
he ran after him for revenge, Mr. H. leading the way toward home.
His brother now declares that the switching saved his life. Mr. H.
was contractor and builder of the Brock Chapel near Smithfield.
He married Barbary Baughman in '77 and has 6 children.
Jacob P. Hensley, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 20 ; P. O.,
Smithfield. The subject of this sketch was born in Clay Co., Ind.,
Dec, 23, 1837, and is the son of John A, and Minerva (Yocum)
Hensley; came to this county in 1853. His brother Samuel serv-
ed in the Rebellion. He serves his school district in capacity of
Director; was married March 9, 1861, to Margaret Baughman, by
whom he has four children. Mrs. Hensley's father is one of the
early settlers in this township, and is still living here with Isaac
Howard, his son-in-law, Mr, H. is a member of the Christian
Church,
Hiram S. Higgins, the subject of this sketch, was born in Ken-
tucky, April 24, 1820. He is the son of James Higgins, from
Bourbon Co., Ky. ; came to this county in 1836; was formerly a
cooper, but is a farmer and stock-raiser at present. He has supe-
rior facilities for raising stock. In his wood pasture there is a pool
36
588 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY,
married to Mary E. Douglas, Sept. 7, 1865. Their children num-
ber 7, — Emma L., Carrie A., Charles W., George, Mary F., Jesse
E. and an infant girl. He united with the M. E. Church in 1875.
Jestie iS. Fdfc, farmer and stock-rai.-<er ; P. O., Smithfield ; is a na-
tive of Licking Co., O., and was born Aug. 9, 1817; was married
June 15, 1837, to Miss Sarah H. Harbert. They have a family of
5 children living, out of 11 born to them. Both Mr. and Mrs. F.
are members of the M. E. Church, and Mr. F. is a local preacher,
and earnest and sincere in his professions. He came to this county
in 1839. He formerly voted with the Liberty party; was a strong
anti-slavery man, and says the line of the Under-ground railroad
passed through Cass tp. not far from his residence. His sous,
George R. and James M., served in the Rebellion.
Jacob Fink, merchant, Smithfield. The subject of this sketch
is a native of Germany, and was born in 1835; was educated in
Germanv in the common schools ; formerlva stock-raiser, but is now
engaged in the mercantile business. Mr. Fink began in life with
nothing, and now is comfortably situated; served in the late Rebel-
lion ; enlisted in 1861 in Co. D, 55th 111. Inf. as a private, and by
his gallant service was promoted to First Lieut, and honorably dis-
charged as such. He re-enlisted in Hancock's Veteran Corj)S in
March, '65, as })rivate, and was again promoted to Lieut. He is
one of the fortunate men who drew the large bounty. He was in
Washington when Lincoln was assassinated. The Lieut, still has
the sword and Sharp's rifle that he carried while in the service; was
in 20 engagements and came out without a scratch ; was married to
Samantha C. Baughman, July, 1866, bv whom he has three bovs, —
Henry B., born May 11,1867; Walter P., born Aug. 8, 1870;
John J., born March 13, 1873.
Frcnikliu H. Hart, farmer, sec. 8; P. O., Smithfield ; was born in
Onondaga Co., N. Y., Jan. 'I'l, 1832; came to this county in 1848;
served three years and two months in the Rebellion, in 1st Mo.
Engineers' regt., the greater portion of the time in Co. K, anda
portion of the time in Co. C, and filled the ca])acity of cook ; he
now serves as School Director; was married INIar. 15, 1852, to Katha-
rine Baughman; 12 children are the result of this union, 7 of M'hom
are living. Mr. and Mrs. H. are members of the Smithfield M. E.
Church. Mr. H. has operated a saw-mill for 12 years; has lived
three years in Kansas.
Isaac Henderson, son of Xathan Henderson of this township,
was born Dec. 5, 1828, in Fayette Co., (). He removed witli his
parents to Bernadotte township in 1843, and to Cass townshij) in
'44; was educated in the common schools of Ohio. Mr. H. has
served the ]>eoj>le of Cass as Constable fi)r 14 years; has also been
Commissioner of Highways, and was the first School Trustee in the
township, after the township organization in 1850, and served one
term as Justice of the Peace. He was married Aug. 1, '49, to
Elizabeth Fast. They have been blessed with 9 children. Martin,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 591
a very intelligent boy, when 15 years old, while running through
the corn-field one day, took hold of a eockle-burr with his teeth,
that was clinging to his mitten, and beginning to cough at the same
instant, violently drew the burr down his trachea into his lungs.
After retaining it in his lungs four years, he at last coughed it up
in 1874. He died from the effects in '77. Mrs, H. is a member of
the Protestant Methodist Church. Mr. H. was formerly a lawyer,
but is a farmer at present. P. O., Cuba.
Albert Herbert. There was born to John and Rebecca (Long)
Herbert, in Ashland Co., O., March 26, 1823, a son, the subject of
this sketch. He came to this county in 1836, and is engaged in
farming and stock-raising ; P. O., Smithfield. His father died when
he was quite young, and he was bound out three times; went to
California overland in 1849 ; was six months and four days complet-
ing the journey. He was taken sick at Ft. Laramie ; the company
left him there after giving him S25 and an ox team, telling him to
return to the State. He waited until one o'clock P. M., when he
threw away a part of his clothing, bed and ammunition, mounted
one of the oxen and overtook the company at dark of the same
day. He recovered, went through to the Golden State and re-
turned. Mr. H. when a boy, in 1836, came near losing his life
by freezing. He was sent to a neighbor's on an errand, and
a very sudden change in the weather taking place at that hour, he
became very sleepy and was on the point of stopping to lie down,
when the thought of freezing instilled new energy in him. In
1840, while living in Cuba, he and a brother were engaged in cut-
ting wood on the IllinT)is river, and were caught in another fearful
storm. The brother became sleepy, and Mr. H. procured a switch
and applied it severely, whicli aroused the anger of the brother and
he ran after him for revenge, Mr. H. leading the way toward home.
His brother now declares that the switching saved his life. Mr. H.
was contractor and builder of the Brock Chapel near Smithfield.
He married Barl)ary Baughman in '77 and has 6 children.
Jacob P. Henski/, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 20 ; P. ().,
Smithfield. The subject of this sketch was born in Clay Co., Ind.,
Dec. 23, 1837, and is the son of John A. and Minerva (Yocum)
Hensley; came to this county in 1853. His brother Samuel serv-
ed in the Rebellion. He serves his school district in capacity of
Director; was married Marcli 9, 1861, to Margaret Baughman, by
whom he has four children. Mrs. Hensley 's father is one of the
early settlers in this township, and is still living here with Isaac
Howard, his son-in-law. Mr. H. is a member of the Christian
Church.
Hiram S. Higgin.s, the subject of this sketch, was born in Ken-
tucky, April 24, 1820. He is the son of James Higgins, from
Bourbon Co., Ky. ; came to this county in 1836; was formerly a
cooper, but is a farmer and stock-raiser at present. He has supe-
rior facilities for raising stock. In his wood pasture there is a pool
36
592 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
12 feet long by 6 feet wide and 6 feet deep, wliich flows freely tKe
vear round and never has been known to froe/e over. He helped
organize Company I of the lU.'Ul Hi. Inf. during the Rebellion;
went into camp, but returned on recruiting commission. Has held
the office of School Trustee ten years; has also been Town Clerk
and Road Commissioner. He married P^lizabeth Baughman Feb.
15, 1844, bv whom he has 9 children. Mrs. B. is a member of the
Christian Church. P. O., Smithfield.
Isaac Howard was born in Fulton county. 111., in 1S;]2. His
flither, Samuel, is a native of Virginia, and his mother of New
York ; was educated in this county in the (>ommon schools ; is a
good, clever farmer, and has one of America's noblest women for
an helpmeet. Mr. Howard's flither died when he was but 7 years
old, and he was bound to one Rev. Mr. Emery, with whom he lived
but a short time, after which he worked from place to place on the
farm, and by patience and many hard knocks he has come into
possession of two good farms. Has lived in Cass township 25
years and has been out of the State but twice. - He was married to
Hannah Baughman in 1856. Four children were the result of this
happy union, — Sarah J., born in 1857; John, born Oct., 1859;
Chas". G., born May 20, 1862; Luella, born Nov. 2, 1856. P. O.,
Smithtield.
Henry A. Hoirertcr was born in Berks Co., Pa., Fel). 9, 1850;
is of German descent. He came with his parents to this county in
1836; was educated in the common schools of the Keystone State
and Fulton Co. His father, Benjamin, lives in Cass township.
Mr. H. is a farmer and stock-raiser. He was proprietor of a tannery
and worked in a woolen factory until 53 years old. He has been
Town Clerk ; was married in 1871 to Anna E. Turner, daughter of
Israel Turner, of Knox county. His grandmother Howcrter, father
Howerter and all his- family were born in the same house in Penn-
sylvania. His father proposed the founding of the j)resent town
of Shamrock in Pennsylvania, and was grain and coal merchant
there for a number of vears. Is a member of the Lutheran Church.
P. O., Smithtield.
James T. Irwin, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 34 ; P. O., Smith-
field. The subject of this sketch was born in Licking Co., O., July
16, 1837. He came to this county in 1849, and went to the Terri-
tories in 1865, and had several encounters with the Indians while
there. At one time the red-skins attempted to stamjjede their
teams, but the leader, a white renegade, was captured. They gave
him a "moonlight" trial, and released hin on the promise to keep
the peace. They employed two men to bring them back to the set-
tlement, who proved tt» be robbers. Before reaching Fort Kearney,
a bare-headed man, with but one boot, met them and talked famil-
iarly MMtii the guides. This aroused a suspicion in Mr. I., and
he lay awake all nigiit and heard their plans for murdering the
party the next day, which was checked in the morning by dismiss-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 598
ing the guides under threats of ininu'diate death. He was married
to Sainantha Totten, who has borne him 9 children, 7 of M'hom are
living.
J. A. Johnxnn, Postmaster and Justice of the Peace, Smithfield;
is a son of Thompson and ^lahala Ann Johnson, and was horn in
Belmont Co., C)., in LSoT. lie came to tliis county in 18(i(S. He
served for 4 years in the late Rebellion as private in Co. F, 55th 111.
Inf., and after many narrow escapes was honorably discharged. He
was united in marriage witli I^ucinda A. Wheeler, who lias borne
him three children, — Geo., Cora M., and Sarah B. Mr. J. united
with the M. E. Church in 1877.
William Johnson, farmer, sec. 34; P. O., Smithfield; was born in
this county. Benj. Johnson, his father, is a native of New York
State ; was educated in the common schools of Fulton Co. He
helj)ed put down the Indian raids and depredations in Colorado in
1865, under Colonel Chivington. On returning from the battle of
Sand creek, he with others traveled 48 hours without halting. The
son of the guide who led them to the Indian camp was the chief of
the tribe. He was taken ])risoner, and afterward shot by some re-
vengeful soldiers. Mr. J. has been twice to Kansas, once to Texas,
and lived three months in the Choctaw nation. Was herder in the
mountains and learned to swing the lasso with precision. He mar-
ried Miss Crawford, ^Nlarch 10, '7(5, by whom he has 2 children.
John (j. K((l(r,i\\rn\vr, aec. 5; P. O., Smithfield ; is a son of John
and Katharine (Henry) Kaler, was born in Crawford Co., Pa.,
April 24, 18-34. His parents moved to this county in 1839. Mr.
K. served in the late Rebellion in Co. D, 70th 111. Inf. He was
married to Edey Hedge, of this county, in 1854. She died shortly
afterwards and he again married, this time Anna Bevard. He is
the father of five children. Mrs. Kaler is a member of the Mt.
Pleasant Christian Church.
Solomon IT. Kcimc, farmer, sec. 31 ; P. ()., Smithfield. The sub-
ject of this sketch was born in Stark Co., O., March 18, 1833. His
father, Daniel, and mother, Katharine (Kennel) Keime, are natives of
Penn. He came to this county in 1858; served three years in the
Rebellion. By the sweat of the brow he has ol)tained a comfortable
home. He married Lovina ^lason March 11, 1859, by whom he
has seven children, — ^lartha E., Chas. W., U. S. Grant, Samuel,
Daniel (dec.,) Edward R. and James.
David Lande.s, merchant, farmer and proprietor of the Landes
House, Smithfield ; was born in I^icking Co., O., in June, 18,'}(), and
came to this county in 1855. Although Mr. L. had little to begin
active life with, yet by industry and hard labor he has accumulated
enough to make him comfortabh^ tiirough the remainder of his life.
Besides his hotel and business buildings he owns a farm, which is
well improved and stocked. He was united in marriage in 1858 with
Mary F. Heath. Edward H., born Aug. 4, 1859, and Wm. F.,
born April 8, 1863, are their tMO children.
594 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
N. H. Lehman, physician and surgeon, Smithfield ; was born in
Mahoning: Co., O., July 17, 1850; came to this State in 1872,
Shortly after arriviu"; here he received a sunstroke, which came
near jMittinij: an end to his life. Ho was educated in Poland Semin-
ary, and the Eclectic Medical College, Cincinnati, ()., graduating
with high honors in the latter. He came to this county in 1877,
and by his superior skill has l)uilt up a large ])ractice. He was
married Nov. 28, 1878, to Marv Burkholder. Mrs. L. is a member
of the Sterling M. E. Church. '
W. P. Markland, physician and surgeon, Smithfield; was born
in Ripley June 21, 1831, and educated in the common schools of
of Indiana. He served three years in the Rebellion, enlisting as
Corporal and mustering out as Sergeant. The Doctor received his
medical education at Bath, Mason county. 111. He is the father
of 10 children, four of whom are living, — Omar, Elender, AVra. P.
and Evangeline. By his merits as a physician the Doctor has won
a large practice, and such almost unparalleled success has attended
him that in a practice of 4 years' standing he has lost but one case.
Wm. K. Moxliur, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 13 ; P. ()., Cuba ;
was born in Saratoga Co., N. Y., Sept. 1, 1827, and is the son of
Nathaniel T. and Maria (Paull) Moshier, who were also natives of
New York. He removed with his jiarcnts to Delaware Co., O.,
in 1838, where his father died in 1843, thence with his mother he
moved to Licking Co., O., where death took her away in 1847.
He arrived at Canton, Fulton Co., 111., the day Abraham Lincoln
was assassinated. Mr. M. has been and is a hard laborer. He fed
stock 15 winters in succession, without any intermission, not even
on Sundays; he was married June 11, 1853, to I^ouisa Link, by
whom he had six children, 5 living, — Frank, James, Laura, John
and Ella. Mrs. Moshier died July 6, 1878, leaving the care of the
household duties entirely u}H»n Laura, who was then 18 years of
age. Miss J..aura deserves great credit for the nuniner in which she
j)resides over her father's house. !Mr. ^L has had his hair-breadth
escapes as well as others, two of which we relate. AVhile in Ohio
he, in company with some neighbor boys, felled a " coon tree,"
which was vcrv large and bent several smaller trees with their tops
to the ground; going toward the trcc-to]) one of these trees imme-
diately broke loose, and with its elastic power sent a small limb
through the toj) of his head, cutting to the skull, the limb passing
on into the ground so deep that the four men could not pull it out.
During the war a man in Newark, ()., jerked a butternut })in off
him, when he drew a revolver; then another assailant a])])eared and
felled him with a rock as he was in the act of shooting a colonel
for striking him ; a friend caught the hammer and thus ended the
skirmish.
Alhirt T. Murphy, grain dealer and farmer ; P. ()., Cuba. Mr.
M.'s father, Solomon ^Iurj)hy, was born in Licking Co., O., July
13, 1838. He came with his parents to this county in 1852; was
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 595
educated in the coniinon schools of Ohio. Mr. M. was united in
marriage Jan. 16, 1861, with Hannaii Baughnian, who has borne
him 7 chikh-en, — Cora B., Margaret J., Rosetta, Henry M., Ger-
trude, Salina A., and Chas. M. He and his wife are members of
the Christian Church. Mr. M. began in life ''bare-handed/' and by
hard work and industry has succeeded well.
James Marphi/, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 13 ; P. O., Cuba ; is
the son of Wni. Murphy, deceased, and was born in Ashland Co.
June 25, 1830; came with his parents to Fulton county in Oct.,
1831 ; was educated in a select school in Cuba. He was married
Feb. 21, 1860, in Ashland Co., O., to Almira Heifner. Having
returned to his native home on a visit he was captured by the Miss
Heifner, and she still " holds a claim." They are blessed with two
children. His father, Wm, Murphy, was drafted in the Black
Hawk war, but a brother, Adam, served in his stead. As is well
known, Mr. M. was an early settler here. He gathered strawberries
where Cuba now stands. Also has borne many privations, which
early settlers were heir to. He has lived a week at a time with no
bread in the house.
Will. P. Murphy, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 13; P. O., Cuba;
is the son of Solomon Murphy, and brother of A. T. Murphy,
whose biography also appears in this volume; was born in Licking
Co., O., Aug. 27, 1841 ; came to this county with his })arents in
1853. Mr. M. was joined in marriage, May 5, '66, with Mary
Lieurance, who departed this life Feb, 27, '76. He married Hannah
Peirsol, March 8, '77. He is the father of five children. He
traveled through the West in ^iWi, and again in '69. He also served
in the late Rebellion in Co. G, 11th III. Cavalry. First wife was a
member of the Christian Church. Mr. M. has labored hard to
procure a home for his family, which lie has well accomplished.
John Nelson, son of Henry and Debora Nelson, was born in Ful-
ton county, 111., in 1841 ; was educated in this county; is a wagon-
maker, and served in the late Rebellion in Co. A, 89th 111. Inf , and
was discharged Feb., 1865; was married Feb. 20, 1865, to Caroline
Lucas, by whom he had four children, — Geo. W., Alga Riy (de-
ceased), Lula M. and an infant, deceased. Little Ray was a very
intelligent boy. When on his death-bed he refused to take whisky,
as he said he wanted it said of him after death that "he never
tasted whiskv." Also said he heard somebody singing in the air
this song : " We are going home to die no more." Residence, Smith-
field.
Abraham Oncuj, agriculturist, sec. 22; P. O., Smithlield. The
subject of this sketch was born in Cass township, Feb., '38, and is
the son of John, deceased, and Marguret (Biughmun) Orwig;
removed to St irk county, 111., in '<>2 and returned in '()5, where he
has since lived and labored hard in the interests of his family. He
married Olive E. Curfman, of Cass township, Feb. 10, '59. Ten
children are the result of this union, — John W., Chas. E., Geo. F ,
59G HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Delia J., Elizabeth E., Mary A., Wm. M. and David C. are living,
the others having died. His brothers David and Frank live on
the old homestead. Mrs. O. is a member of the U. B. Church.
James Oririr/, farmer, P. ()., Cuba; son <»f the late John Orwig,
of Cass township, and bother of Abraham Orwig, whose biography
also appears just above, Avas born in Ohio, Aug. 18, '35. He
came to this county in 1837 ; was educated in the common schools
of Fulton county. He has traveled some through the Northwest,
but has lived mostly in this township, a quiet life, laboring in the
interests of home and home enjoyments. He was married in '57,
to Martha J. Stewart, by whom he has nine children.
Jacob 31. Peyton. The subject of this sketch was born Aug. 5,
1841, in Clarke Co., Va., and is the son of Joseph E. and Mary S.
(Fred) Peyton. He went with his parents to Licking Co., O., in
'49; thence to Muskingum Co., O., thence to Henry Co., 111., in
'55, thence to McDonough Co. in '71, and to Fulton Co. in '74,
where his father died in 1878. He was educated in Knox College,
at Galesburg, 111. and served in the Rebellion in Co. C, 9th 111.
Cavalry. He was discharged in '62; Feb. 15, '63, received a Cap-
tain's commission from Governor Oglesby, and raised Co. I, 148th
111. Inf., and remained in service till the close of the war. While on
an expedition in Arkansas under Col. Wood of the 1st Ind. Cavalry,
he was wounded in crossing one of the dykes near White river.
He teaches public school and vocal music in winter, and farms in
summer; was married Aug. 24, 1876, to Phoebe L. Hendryx, who
has presented him with two children, Claudius B. and Aggie B.
While in the army the soldier boys, being so much attached to their
gallant and kind Cajitaiu, presented him with a valuable watch and
chain.
Wil.son Reeiov. This whole-souled gentleman is a native of Ross
county, O. He was born Dec. 20, 1836. John Rector, his fother,
is a native of Va. His mother, Rebecca (Wilson) Rector, is a
native of the Emerald Isle. Mr. Rector came to this county in
1841, with about ^400, and now owns about 400 acres of well
improved land, and is engaged in farming and raising stock; served
4 years as Supervisor for Cass; has been Assessor two terms and
Collector two terms; was married to Lamira T. Beadles, Sej)t. 25,
1856. Eight children are the result of this union, all living and at
home, — Henry J., born July 1, 1857; Geo. E., James M., Harriet
E., John E., Newton H, Louie T. and Beadles N. P. ()., Smith-
field.
3//-.S. Margaret A. Bobinwn, Smithtield. Our subject was born in
Delaware Jan. 26, 1832, and is the daughter of Levin Cooper, who
came to this county in 1840 and settled near Vermont, where he
lived a rcsj)ected and much esteemed citizen for several years, Avhcn
he removed to near Ipava. Mr. C. was killed by a runaway team
in 1863. Mrs. Cooper still lives a widow on the home place. Mrs.
Robinson is highly esteemed in Smithtield as a pillar of the Sabbath-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 597
school. This school is by far the most interesting Sabbath-school
in this part of the county, and its success is largely attributed to the
faithful and earnest labors of Mrs. Robinson. This school now
nunihors 108 members. Not only in Sniithfield has she been useful,
but has been an earnest S. S. worker for 29 years. She has been
married twice: first to Joseph Paul Nov. 29, 1848. This union was
blessed with 8 children. Mr. Paul died on his way from California
in 1851. She was married to William C Robinson April G, 1854.
They have 5 children, of whom 4 are living. Mr. Rubinson is a
native of Ohio and came to Fulton Co. in 1852, where he has pur-
sued the occupation of farming. Their son Levin is now 17 vears
old.
^Y. A. Bou'cJen, son of John and Nancy (Henderson) Rowden, of
Cass township, was born Jan. 12, 1849, in Miami Co., Ind. ; came
with his parents to this county in '50 ; was educated in the common
school of Fulton county. His brother, James C. Rowden, is Con-
stable for ('ass township. He was united in marriage March 20,
'73, with Clara E. HoUenwell, who has borne him three children, —
Charles F., James (deceased) and Ennna. He is a member of the
M. E. Church. P. O., Cuba.
Kersey J. Russom, Smithfield, son of Levi R. (deceased) and Eliza-
beth Russom, was born in Fulton county in 1858. He was
educated in the county in the common schools, and is mostly a self-
made, energetic school-teacher. He has the legal profession in view
as a life business ; was raised a farmer's boy ; by his energy and
superior talent as a speaker he is destined to make his mark in the
world.
Rev. James E. RuUedije ; P. O., Smithfield ; was born in Augusta
county, Va., Jan. 26. 1834. His parents brought him to Farmers'
tp., this county, in 1835 ; was reared on a farm ; united with the M.
E. Church in 1852; was educated in the Illinois Wesleyan Univer-
sity at Bloomington; also attended tiie Garrett Biblical Institute 3
years; joined the Central Illinois M. P^. Conference in 1858, in
which he has labored until the present. He married Miss Emma
A. Miller of Henderson, Knox county, 111., Aug. 15, 1860, by
whom he has had 5 children : of these 4 are living. Rev. R. was
ordained Deacon by Bishop Baker in 1860; ordained Elder by
the same in 18(52. His labors have been crowned with success in
his various fields of work. Is at present Pastor of the Smithfield
charge, in Macomb District, including the following appointments :
Smithfield, Providence, Pleasant Grove, Marietta, Williams and
Wiley.
Mrs. Lorinda Shriber was born in Pennsylvania, June 28, 1836,
and is the daughter of John Hinderliter (deceased), who moved to
this countv in 18,38. Mrs. S. was educated in the c<tmmon schools
of this county. When her father arrived at Canton he had but five
cents in money, and a team and wagon. When he died he was in
good financial circumstances. Her husband (deceased) was born in
598 HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY.
Pennsylvania and came here in 1852. He served in the Rebellion
9 months. She has six children, all at home; John and Daniel
being; her main support. She is a consistent member of the Baptist
Church ; has never been out of the county since she first entered in
1838. P. O., Cuba.
J. Morgan Stewart, son of the late Richard Stewart, of Cass
township, was born Sept. 15, 1844, in Licking Co., O. ; served in
Co. E, 121st O. Inf.; served one year as clerk in the Inspector
General's department ; was in the battles of Chickasaw and Kene-
saw Mountains, the regiment losing half its men in each engagement.
He was one of 19 in his company of lOG who served the entire
time without furlough or discharge. While in the army his ])ar-
ents removed to Indiana in 1865, whither he followed. His par-
ents came to this county in 1865 and he in 1866. He married
Frances Stenbeck, Oct. 23, 1877. His father took a firm stand on
the side of temperance all his life ; never sued a man, and never
was sued, which principles of punctuality, honesty and lenity to-
ward debtors he ever taught his children. He was a worker in the
M. E. Church, and died May 18, 1879. Mr. and Mrs. S. are mem-
bers of the M. E. Church. He is engaged in the pursuit of farming
and stock-raising. Has served as Collector and Supervisor for Cass
township. P. O., Cul)a.
James W. Strode, farmer, sec. 32 ; P. O., Smithfield. He was
born in Adams Co., O., in Feb., 1837 ; came to this county in 1857 ;
was educated in the common schools in this county. Mr. Strode
had nothing with which to begin this life, but has managed by hard
labor and economy to procure a comfortable home; was married
in 1864 to Caroline Irwin, by whom he has had 9 children, — Isaac
L., Carrie A., Nancy J., James X., Sarah K., Mahala Y., Mary,
\Vm. I), (deceased), and Ed. V.
John Tottcn. When the red man was sporting over the prairies
of Illinois and when the wolves were prowling through the forests,
William Totten placed his family and effects in a one-horse cart in
Ohio and found his way to Kentucky, thence to Indiana, and final-
ly to Fulton Co., where in 1823 he settled on the well-known Tot-
ten's Prairie. It would require a large volume to recount all the
incidents of his frontier life in Fulton Co. Mr. Totten was re-
markable for retaining peace with the Indians. When on the war
path they would visit him, trade and sport with him and leave
peaceably. He was the first settler in Cass township, and settled
on sec. 27. The widow of William Totten still lives on the old
homestead with her son John Totten at the age of 84 years. John
Totten followed the occupation of hunting for many years, raising
such grain as was needed for family use. He was married in 1847
to Barbary Baughman. Their son, Michael P. Totten, was born in
Fulton Co., Oct. 18, 1850; was educated in the common schools of
this county ; is a well-to-do farmer. Miss Almira, daughter of
John Totten, is but 13 years of age, and is a remarkably good
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 599
scholar for her age. Mrs. Totten was educated in Ohio, and came
here with her parents in 1832. P. O., Smithfiekl.
Joseph A. Tussing, bkicksmith, Sniithfield, is a son of Henry Tus-
sing, a native of Germany, and was born in Ohio, June 13, 1825.
He was educated in the common schools of the Buckeye State and
came to this county in 1861. He became an orphan early in life and
has suffered many hard knocks among strangers. He served 3 years
in the Rebellion in Co. I, 8th Mo. Inf and 10 months in Co. I,
14()th 111. luf He participated in 18 battles, and was -slightly
wounded. While in one battle a ball passed through liis cap
box and ruined his watch, which however saved his life. He
was married to Caroline McCorkle in Jan., 1847, who bore
him one child, now deceased. He married Miss M. J. M.
Greenman in 1850; one child, Wm. R., was the result of this union.
The third time he was married to Clarissa Shoemaker, Jan. 5, 1879.
Having lost two wives and being bereft of parents when quite young
Mr. T's life thus far has been accompanied with much sadness.
Aiihur M. Varuold, farmer and thresher, sec. 17; P. ()., Smith-
field. Mr, V. is the son of Peleg Yarnold, of Smithtield, and was
born and raised in this township. He is an experienced thresher,
having operated a threshing-machine for twenty years. He was
united in the holy bonds of matrimony with ]\Iartha German July
14, 1858. She was called to her eternal rest April 24, 1872. He
was married to Mary M. Bull Jan. 18, 1874. She has since become
the mother of 2 children. Mr. V. lost his dwelling with all of
its effects by fire Jan. 15, 1872.
P. A. Walters, farmer and mechanic, sec. 24 ; P. O., Cuba ; was
born in Augusta county, Va., March 27, 1825, and is the son of
Thomas and Mary (Wood) Walters; came to this county in 1841 ;
was educated in select schools of Virginia and Fulton county.
Served as Assessor for five years and Collector one year. He was
married March 27, '50 to Frances A.Markley. Nine children have
been born to them, six of which are living. He and his life-com-
panion are consistent members of the Christian Church. Mr. W.
went to California in '53, overland, and returned by shij) in '56 ;
traveled through Montana and Idaho in '64 and returned.
Henry Wauyhtcl. The subject of this sketch was born in Hock-
ing Co., O., June 27, 1812; removed with his father to Richland
Co. in 1814, thence to Fountain Co., Ind., in '25, thence to Putman
township, Fulton Co., 111., in '27. He helped build the fort on A.
C. Moore's farm; has been a resident of Cass township since 1828,
except a little over 4 years, which was spent in the lead mines of
Wisconsin ; gained a fortune there, but was swindled out of it by
worthless men. When young was very fond of fishing and hunting,
in which the young of early days engaged frequently. He wit-
nessed the deep snow in 1830, which killed animals, turkeys and
game by the thousands. On a hunting expedition after the snow he
found 21 dead deer and but one live one. The Indian ponies nearly all
600 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
perished in this snow. Mr. W. was the first man to step out to
the music when the call for volunteers was made in 18.'}2 to j)ut down
the Black Hawk war. David W. Barnes was Captain and Thomas
W. Clark and Asa Langford Lieutenants. The company W(!nt to
Dixon ou Rock river, and from there Gov. Reynolds sent them uj)
the river, there being but 217 men, including officers, to meet the
foe. On the evening of the second day's march they camped on
Sycamore creek. While sporting and congratulating one Mr. Paul,
who had shot two Indians that afternoon, a dozen Indians made
their appearance on the bank of the creek. The excited men ran
after the Indians at full speed. The remaining men formed in line
and marched to meet the enemy. When they drew in sight they were
outnumbered. Mr. W. says there were over 2,0(X) red-skins. Before
they were aware of it they were nearly surrounded. The Indians,
led by Black Hawk, made a fearful charge and the Fulton county
boys were routed, losing 11 men. This l)att]e was known as Still-
man's defeat. He also states that the Indians had a drum. Mr.
H. engaged in the mercantile business and failed in 1839. He
married Margaret Markley Aug. 10, '37, and is the father of 12
children ; is a member of the M. E. Church ; is local preacher. Con-
verted at C. P. camp-meeting in 1831. Was the first Supervisor
for Cass tp. P. ()., C'uba.
Jacob Zeigler was born in Ashland Co., ()., Jan. 1, 1839; came to
this county in 1858; was educated in the common schools of Ohio.
When Mr. Zeigler came to this county he had §2.50. He worked
for Wm. Hinderliter four years, and noM' owns 200 acres of land
well improved. He is the only man in Cass township who deals in
thorough-bred cattle. The head of the herd. Emperor Sixth, was
calved April 7, 1877, and was got by American Sheriff; American
SheriflP, by Sheriff (29,9(54) imported, out of Duchess of York.
Mr. Zeigler was nuirried to Sarah A. Hinderliter Oct., 18(31, by
whom he has seven children, — Effie M. (deceased), Clara B., Willis
T., Ralsoni J., Chas. S., Jesse F. and Sarah A. Mr. Z. also pos-
sesses 160 acres of land in Nebraska. P. O., Smithfield.
TO^VNSHir OFFICIALS.
The following gentlemen have guided the public affairs of the
township since its organization :
SUPERVISORS.
H. Waughtel 18r)0 H. W. Baughman 1S59-(J5
Abraham Murphy ISol John A. Waters 1866-67
('has. Ilowar.l.....' lSo2-53 A. Murphy 1868
John Rector 1854 Isaac llemlerson 1860
Jacob Bavless 1855 Isaac Howard 1870-72
James Van Hauten 1856 Wilson Rector 1873-76
Abraham Murphv 1857 James M. Stewart 1877
Daniel Hemlersoii 1858 A.S.Watson 1878-80
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
601
TOWN CLERKS.
Jacob Bayless 1850
Hiram S. Higgins 1851-53
John H. Bangiiman 1854-56
H. W. Baughman 1857
II. I). Ball 1858-59
H. Waughtel 1860-02
Wra. A. Ransom 1863
C. C. Martin 1864
W. Rector 1865-66
S. B. Marklej- 1867-69
James Horrell 1870
J. H. Tamron 1871-72
James Horrell 1873
John A. Johnson 1874
Henry A. Howater 1875-76
E. B. Hughs 1877-78
J. H. Baughman 1879
ASSESSORS.
John Rector 1850-51
Wm. Johnson , 1852
John Rector 1853
Jacob Bayless 1854
James Randall 1855
A. Murphy 1856-60
P. A. Walters 1861
Isaac Howard 1862
A. R. Baughman 1863-66
Joel B. Patterson 1867-68
James Murphy 1869
P. A. Walters' 1870-71
Wilson Rector 1872
P. A. Walters 1873-74
Joel B. Patterson 1874-76
James Horrell 1876
P. A. Walters 1877-78
William Rector 1879
COLLECTORS.
John Shoup 1850
Chas. Howard 1851
Wm. H. Totten 1852
John Rector 1853
A. Herbert 1854
James Randall 1855
A. Murphv 1856-00
P. A. Walters 1861
Isaac Howard 1862
A. R. Baughman 1863-66
Albert Herbert 1866
Lucius Grant 1867-68
John Brock 1869
Wilson Rector 1870-71
William A. Ransom 1872-73
James M. Stewart 1874
James Horrell 1875
Daniel Higgins 1876-77
John Schriber 1878
Geo. R. Carley 1879
DEERFIELD TOWNSHIP.
Deerfield township (the field of deer) was in an early day the
favorite resort of thousands of deer, especially on Reeves' Prairie,
on sections 1, 2 and 3: hence the name. In the y^sar LS23 Robert
Reeves purchased the northwest quarter of section 2 and in the fol-
lowing year left civilization and settled here in the then wilds of
Deerfield, where the nights were hideous by the ceaseless howling
of the blood-thirsty wolves. Among his nearest neighbors were
Henry Waughtel, sr., Wm. Totten and Simon Camron, of Cass
township, at a distance of about ten miles. Among the earlier set-
tlers of Deerfield were John S. and Samuel Edmonson, Zebulon and
Milton Foster, John S. Dyer, John H. Martin, Isaac Weaver and
and Hezekiah Cattron, all of whom settled in the vicinity of Reeves'
Prairie. The original Reeves farm was ])urchased in 1835 of the
widow and heirs of Robert Reeves by the late William Weaver of
this county, and whose son, Joshua Weaver, is living upon the
prairie at ])resent. John Martin was the first Justice of the Peace,
and was elected in 1H37. Schools were taught in the township as
early as 1840. John H. Martin Avas the first Supervisor. John T.
Vittum is the present incumbent.
Deerfield stands among the first townships of the county in })oint
of religious organizations. There are six of these in the township
and four church edifices. The Sunday-schools established semi-
annual conventions in the township under the title of the Deerfield
Sabbath-school Association, in 1875. Joshua Weaver is President
and M. D. Dickinson Secretary.
CHURCHES.
Wiley Union Church. — The Methodists and Lutherans l)uilt a
house in 1879 upon the land donated by Mr. E. Wiley, in 1839, for
school and ('liuicli i)urj)Oses. Mr. Wiley did not deed the land, but
his successor, John Scott, transferred it to the Trustees for the above
named purposes. Services are held every two weeks l)y liev. J. E.
Rutledge, M. E. preacher, and every alternate Sunday by Rev.
Martin, Lutheran Pastor.
Franklin Christian Church, commonly known as the New-Light
Christian Church, was organized April 10, 1809, by Elder John K.
Jones, with ten members. This Ciiurch sprang mostly from the old
Pleasant Valley congregation, whic^h was organized at the house of
John Laswell, July 21, 1838, by Dr. John Scott, who now resides
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 603
in Prairie City, 111. This little band grew and prospered until it
numbered at one time over 70 members. But some of the members
having died, some dismissed by letter and others uniting in another
bodv as the ^U. Pleasent Church, the history of whieh is given in
coniieetion with Cass township, the Pleasant Valley Church dis-
banded. Present membership of the Franklin Church is (K). Elder
E. W. Irons is Pastor.
Sharon Cinnherlnnd Prcfihutcrian ( htirch was organized in the
autumn of IH'Mi by Kev. -John Berry, at the house of John Edmon-*
son. The records were burned in the house of Mr. Holmes, and in
1850 the Church was re-organized and services were held in the
new school-house just across the line in Young Hickory townshi]).
There are about 15 members, but employ no regular ])astor, as the
Presbyterians, Methodists and l^utherans have united their forces
and employed a minister to j)reach for all.
Lutheran Zion Church was organized July 23, 1849, with a meiii-
bership of 14, in the Wiley school-house, by Rev. Mr. Scharer.
This organization built a church edifice in 18G6, and in 1872 the
growing desire upon the part of some for English preaching was so
great that the Church divided, and now consists of two organiza-
tions, each one employing a pastor and worshiping in the same house.
One of them is termed the German Lutheran and the other the
English Jjutheran congregation, yet we give both as the history of
one Church, for both claim to be the Lutheran Church, and each
holds that the other is the faction ; but the German congregation
holds the old records. The ])eople are all Germans, but the word
" English " is used to designate one from the other.
iJcvrJield Temperance Union. — Rev. Mr. Evans, of Fairview, as-
sisted by Dr. Beer, of P^llisville, delivered a series of lectures at
the Lutheran Church and Wiley school-house in the spring of 1870,
and on the 10th of June the above-named society was organized
with J. C. Tompkins President and M. 1). Dickinson Secretary.
Their motto is ''Total Abstinence ;" badge, blue ribbon ; member-
ship, about 50.
I'EHSONAL SKETCHES.
As a part of the history of the townshiji we add the following
i)ricf personal biogra])hics :
BarthjjB. Blouf, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 18; P. ()., Babyi(»n.
Mr. B. was born June 2, 1830, in Franklin Co., (). He came to
Fulton Co. with his parents, Allen and Elitha (Boyd) Blout, as
early as 1837, and consequently knows much of ])ioneer life. His
father used to go 40 miles to mill, and he says he has seen their
neighbor, Abram Teatswortii, ])low with a forked stick. He killed
a deer on the opposite bank of the river one time, and sw^am over
to get him. He took out its entrails with a nail, sunk it in the
water and tied it there with a grape vine to keep the wolves from
H04 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
it. Ho married Nancy A. Judy, July 15, 1X5;), who has borne him
6 children, — 4 boys and 2 girls. Mr. B. has held many of the
tp. offices.
Levi Brown, carpenter; P. ()., P^llisville ; was l)()rn in Stark Co.,
O., Oct. 10, 1836 ; removed with his parents to Indiana in 1845, and
came to this county in 1855; worked for Mr. Cope about a year.
He has been Collector two terms, Justice of the Peace 13 years, and
also Pathmaster and School Director ; was married to Sarah C.
Zimmerman Aug. 30, 1860. She has borne 7 children, 5 of whom
are living, — Mary A., David A., Chas. H,, Clarence E., and Artie L.
David Z. Buchen is engaged in blacksmithing on sec. 25 with his
brother John. He is the son of John and Rachel (Smith) Buchen,
and was born in Carroll Co., Ind., March 22, 1842. He came from
that State to this county in 1872. He began to learn his trade
when 18 vears old and has worked at it since. He worked for the
Government at Washington, D. C, for 8 months. In 1864 he was
married in ^lanchester, Md., to Hanna Jane Wilhelm, who was
born in Baltimore Co., Md., in Nov., 1842.
John Bachen, blacksmith, sec. 25; P. O., Fiatt ; was born in
Carroll county, Md., Jan. 11, 1844. His father, John Buchen, of
Carroll county, died in 1852 ; his mother, Rachel, nee Smith, is
living in Canton, at the age of about 70 years. Mr. B. worked for
the Government 3 years in the city of Washington. He learned
his trade on the old homestead in Maryland and has followed it ever
since with moderate success. In 1869 he was married to Mary
Snider, who was born Feb. 15, 1846. Tliey had a family of 8 chil-
dren born to them, — 6 boys and 2 girls.
Jacob M. Dickson. — There was born to Uriah W. and Ruth A.
(Foster) Dickson, of Canton, 111., on Dec. 12, 1857, a son, the sub-
ject of this sketch. In this, his native county, he has been reared
and educated ; was l)rakeman on the C, B. ^ Q. R. R. for a short
time; went to Colorado in '77. He was married !March 12, 1879,
to Lydia Shleich, daughter of the late Jacob Shleich, of Fairview
township. Mrs. D, is a meml)er of the Dutch Reformed Church.
Mr. D. is engaged in agricultural i)ursuits. P. O., Fairview.
Matfhi(ts D. Dickinson, teacher, son of C. II. and Susan Dickin-
son, of Deerfield township, was born in Morris county, N. J., Nov.
8, 1852, and came with his parents to Fulton county in '62 ;
received a common-school education in this county, and by industry
and economy has borne his nwn exjienses through Hedding College,
Abingdon, 111. He is a memi)er of the M. E. Church; was reared
on a farm, but is turning his attention to teaching. P. ()., Ellis-
ville.
Martin V. Dunavan, farmer, sec. 27; P. O., Fiatt; was born
Aug. 4, 1837, in Fulton county, and is the son of Lewis and Mary
(Baughman) Dunavan. His father died in 1878, and his mother in
1857. Mr. D. enlisted in the Second California Cav., in 1862, and
engaged in fighting the Indians, principally. In 1866 he was joined
in marriage with Isabel Hartford and has a family of children.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 605
Chas. B. Edmonson, farmer and blacksmith, sec. 10; P.O., Ellis-
villc ; was born in Jackson county, Nov. 29, 1827. He was brought
to this coniity, in 18."}(), by liis ])arents, M'ho first settled upon Tot-
ten's Prairie. Thev now resitie in McDonough county. ]\Ir. E.
enlisted Aug. 12, 18(52, in Co. D, 103d 111. Inf., to help"defend our
dear old Hag and nuiintain a united country. He was transferred
to the Veteran Reserve Corps ; was sick for a year. He has had
the misfortune to have both legs broken, — one October 12, 18(j5,
by a saw-log, the other Nov. 10, 187(), by being kicked by a cow.
He was married June o, 1870, to Rebecca Dyckman, native of Deer-
field. Two girls and one bov have blessed the union.
Frank F. Foiif.^ was born 'March 3, 1850, in Ellisville, 111. His
father, George Fonts, is a native of Pennsylvania, and settled
in this county in 1852. The subject of this sketch is one of 14
children, 8 of whom are living. His parents were married in the
Keystone State, Nov. 14, 1850. His father started for Pike's Peak
during the excitement of '59; met men homeward bound very much
dissatisfied, and returned; went to Montana and Idaho in '(54, re-
turned via Pike's Peak; stopped in Utah and worked for the Gov-
ernment, receiving $140 a month. Frank is engaged in farming
and stock-raising with his father. I*. ()., Ellisville.
Jacob A. (juodcll, farmer; P. O., Ellisville ; was born in Rocking-
ham Co., Mass., June 23, 1818. He came to this county in 1840,
but has resided in Ijicking and Crawford counties, O. His father,
Samuel Goodell, served in the war of 1812, and came to this State
in 1838. Mr. G. has served as Constable, Deputy Sheriff, Path-
master, and School Director; was married to Henrietta Kaler, Nov.
1, '42, by whom he iiad 11 children ; is a member of the Christian
(New-Light) Cliurch. He amassed considerable wealth at two dif-
ferent times, but lost all, first, by security debts, second, by fire and
trust deed. His grandfather Wooster lived 78 years with one
wife, and died at the age of 111 years, 3 months and 10 days.
Is a cooper and carpenter by trade, but now follows farming.
Xclson S. Johnson, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O., Fiatt ; is a son
of the late B. C. Johnson ; was born in Joshua township, this county,
June 9, '49. Mis father came to Joshua township in 18.'>2, and
hence was one of the first settlers there ; was about the first man
who ran for Sheriff of Fulton Co. on the Whig ticket; and was ten-
dered 1<)() acres of land within 2?. miles of Canton at one time, for
a horse. He was also a self-made teacher, teaching several years in
Joshua township. When a little boy he went to Chicago to mill. He
began active life witii 40 acres of land and a horse, and died
wealthy at the age of 58 years, leaving his son N. S., the snbject of
this sketch, a large farm. Mr. J. is inventor and sole ])roprietor of
Johnson's Pidverizing Harrow and Clod Smasher, which the farm-
ers of Deerfield and adjoining townships so highly prize. He has
traveled through the West, and attended the C'entennial. He was
united in marriage Dec. 27, '71 with Dollie Hester, by whom he
(iOG HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
had a little girl, Adda Claudie; but Providence called her away.
Mrs. ,1. is a iiuMnher of the M. E. Church.
WUIidin II. I\cfch(nn, farmer and carj)enter, sec. 12; P. ()., Baby-
lon. On the 14th of May, 1825, there was born to Hiram and
Nancy M. (Austin) Ketcham, of New York, a son, whom they
christened William H. He came first to Peoria Co. with his par-
ents, thence to Mason Co., and finally to Fulton. He has been
twice married, — the first time to Miss .lulia Ann Waixner Nov. 14,
18(51. His present wife, Mrs. Catharine (Shafi'er) Ackley, he mar-
ried Mar. 15, 1874. He had 2 children, Maria K. and John Henry,
by his first w^ife, and one by his present wife. She is a member of
the Christian (New-Light) Church. Mr. K. helped build Babvlon
Mills in 1850-1.
Job B. Knott, farmer and stock-raiser, sec 10; was born near
Table Grove, 111., June 25, 1832. His parents came to Ind. in
1828 and to Fulton Co. in 1832. His father, John Knott, is de-
ceased ; his mother is 84 years old. Job was married to Civillia
Runk March 23, '5(). Nine children have been born to them, — 8
boys, one girl, — 8 of whom are living. Mr. K. was drafted twice
during the Rebellion, but never entered the service. He began life
]ioor, and although he has lost considerable money by security and
suffered other misfortunes, yet he now has 175 acres of good land un-
incumbered. He has hauled wheat to Chicago with an ox team and
sold it for 30 cts. P. O., Ellisville.
Joseph A. Knott is a son of John and Nancy (Miller) Knott, and
brother of Job B. Knott, of this county ; was born in Clark Co., ().,
Aug, 2, 182(5. His i)arents removed with him to Table Grove, 111.,
in 1828 and to Deerfield tj). in '32; was educated in Fulton Co. in
l)oth select and common schools. He served in the l^el)ellion in
Co. I), 55th 111. Inf ; was wounded in the biittle at Shiloh by an ex-
])loding shell. Mr. K. was united in marriage March 25, '45, with
vSarah White, by whom he had 5 children; was married again June
22, to Abigail (Ketcham) Daily, by whom he also had 5 children.
Is a member of the Christian Church. Fjived in Iowa 3 years.
Traveled in Kansas, Mo., Iowa, and Neb. ; removed to Mo., but re-
turned without unh)adint2;; didn't like the country. He is now a
farmerr formerly a cooper. P. O., Ellisville.
Dnnicl M. Lairson, farmer; P. O., Ellisville; Mr. L. is a son of
Jain(>s and Elizabeth (Sleighder) Lawson and was born Feb. 16,
1848, in Franklin Co., Pa.; removed to Fairfield Co., ()., in '64,
and to Fulton Co. in '70: was educated in the common schools of
Penn. While riding on the cars near Ijancaster, O., the cars ran off
the track, a rail breaking and forcing its way through the car in
which he was riding; l)ut all escaj>ed uninjured. He was married
Aug. 18, 1875, to ^lary Vj. Weaver, daughter of Joshua Weaver, of
whom we speak elsewhere in this work. They have two children,
Grace G. and Nora E. Mrs. L. is a member of the Cumberland
Presbyterian Church.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY, 609
Lewis J/a/'f/n was born in Germany Sept. 13, '36, and was ])r()ught
to this country by his parents, both of whom are now dead, in 1<S40.
He came into Fulton Co. in 1845. He enlisted Aug. 14, '62, in Co.
B, 103d 111. Inf., and served till June 21, 1865. He took part in
the battles of Mission Ridge, Savannah and other important engage-
ments. He was married in Canton in Aug., 1866, to Katharine
Mahr. They have been blessed with 4 children, — 3 boys, one girl.
Both he and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. Mr.
M. is engaged in farming on sec. 16. P. O., Ellisville.
Nelson (r. 3IiUs, farmer, sec. 13; P. O., Babylon. Mr. Mills is a
native of this county and was born April 8, 1844. His parents, Gid-
eon and Emeline (Bishoj)) ^lills, are deceased. Mr. M. served in
Co. B, TOth 111. Inf., during the Rebellion, and is now a member of
Co. H, 4th I. N. G. Nov. 16, 1871, he was united in marriage
with Miss Ellen Jones in Stark Co. She is the daughter of Isaac
and Ruth Jones. Isaac N., Henry O. and Ruth E. are their chil-
dren.
Joseph Mitchell, son of Matthew and Jane (Corbit) Mitchell, was
born in Indiana July 24, 1826; moved with his parents to Mont-
gomery county, 111., in 1827, thence to this county in 1838; has
been Constable 8 years, School Director 18 years, and also Road
Commissioner; married Janctte Pigsley (3ct. 15, 1848, by whom he
had 11 children, all living, the oldest 30 and the youngest 3 years
of age ; four are in Iowa ; Jennie was married to Luther Shaffer
Sept. 27, 1877. Mrs. M. is a member of the Frec-Will Baptist
Church. Mr. M. is engaged in farming and stock-raising. P. O.,
Fiatt.
Matthew Mitchell, former; P. O., Fiatt; is a son of Ebenezer
Mitchell, and was born in Franklin Co., O., Aug. 28, 1832; came
to this county with his parents in the year 1850. Mr. M. enjoyed
no other educational advantages than those which are afforded in the
common schools; served in the Rebellion in Co. A, 55th 111. Inf,
for four years; was in the battles of Shiloh, Vicksburg and Atlan-
ta; was married in 1871 to wi(h)W Kaler, by whom he has 3 chil-
dren,— John W., Minnie J. and Mary M. Mrs. M. had 2 children
by her first husband, Joseph S. (deceased), and James H. Both
Mr. and Mrs. M. are members of the Free-Will Baptist Church.
Matthew H. Mitchell, farmer and stock-raiser, is the son of Mat-
thew and Mary (Freeman) Mitchell, and was born in Montgomery
Co., 111., March 17, 1830. His parents came to the State in 1828,
and to this county in 1835. Both parents are deceased. Mr. M.
has certainly seen the rough side of pioneer life. The first cabin
his father built in this county was 12 feet srpiare. They slept on a
rail-pen bedstead ; cooked and ate out of doors; their nearest neigh-
bor was 10 miles away, and indeed they suffered all the privations
of a new countrv. He was married to Calj^hurnia Wheeler Feb.
11, 1852. She is a native of Jefferson Co., N. Y. They have had
10 children — 6 boys and 4 girls. Both he and his wife are con-
37
GIO HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
nectcd with the Christian (New-Light) Church. Mr. M. lives on
see. 3; P. O., Ellisville. Politically he is a Greenbacker, and is the
candidate for County Treasurer upon that ticket.
James Norris, farmer and miller, sec. 13; P. ()., Babylon. Mr.
N. is the son of Benjamin and Lutetia (Griffith) Norris, and was
born in Franklin Co., O., Dec. 23, 1833. He came to this county
in 1854, and in January, 1857, married Mary E. Gardner. This
union has resulted in the l)irth of 8 children, — 5 boys and 3 girls, —
all of whom are living Avith their parents. Mr. N. served a short
time in the Rebellion and has held local offices.
A. W. Po?nf/w/, Justice of .the Peace; P. O., Fiatt. Mr. P. is a
son of Asa and Theodosia (Henry) Pomeroy, and was born Nov.
24, 1821, in Massachusetts. His father was a native of Massachu-
setts, and died in 1829; his mother was born in Utica, N. Y., and
is still living there at the age of 95 years. When 10 years old his
mother took him to Utica, where he received his education ; remov-
ed to Albany, N. Y., in 1846, and came to Fulton Co. in 1854;
married Elizabeth A. Saulpaugh June 20, 1848, by whom he had 9
children, 5 of whom are living, — Rufus H., Charlotte L., wife of
Millard Johnson, Kate L., Jennie S., and Chas. A. Kate began
teaching at the age of 17, and has taught 3 years with good success.
Mr. and Mrs, P. are members of the F. W. Baptist Church. They
lost their house and furniture in the great Albany fire of 1848.
Mr. P. passed through the fire uninjured by wrapping blankets
around him. Went to California in 1850, and returned in 1852. Mr.
P. has filled about all of the township offices.
./. W. Schrodf is a native of Germany, where he was born Feb. 3,
1820. He came with his parents to this county, stopping in Mary-
land, in 1831 ; came to Ohio in 1837 and to this Co. in 1847. Both
his parents are deceased. He was formerly engaged at shoe-making,
but now turns his attention to farming and stock-raising upon sec. 7.
Durino; the vear 1847 he was married to Marv K. Mahr, who bore
him 10 children, — 7 boys and 3 girls, — 9' of whom are living.
Both he and his wife are members of the Lutheran Church. Post-
office address, Ellisville.
Andrew J. Sheplei/ was born Jan. 19, 1833, in Groton, Mass.
His father, Oliver Shepley, brought him to McLean Co., 111., thence
to Fulton Co. in 1840. He was a Jacksonian Democrat. Served
in the Legislature in '41, and died in Canton in '64. His mother,
Lydia (Lawrence) Shepley, died in this county in '78. Mr. S. was
educated in Canton. He was married to Jane A\'. Yanarsdale Mar.
9, 1864, by whom he has three children, — Alice A., Adelle and
Andrew C. Mr. S. follows agricultural pursuits. P.O., Fairview,
John Srhnur, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O., Fairview; was born
in Germany May 16, 1848, and is the son of John W. Schnur, who
brought his family from Germany to Hlinois in 1854. Mr. S. came
to Fulton county in '68. He received his education in the common
schools of Illiuoi.'5. He was united in marriage Sept. 16, '71, with
HISTORY OF FTJXTON COUNTY, 611
Eva Eheresraan. Their children are Nina E. and William A. Mr.
and Mrs. Schnur are members of the Lutheran Church. His life
has not been very eventful, yet in '69 he came near meeting with
terrible death during a railroad accident, by a broken rail which was
lying on the track between his body and the car wheel.
George Sn-inger, son of George and Barbara (Dreher) Swinger,
was born in Germany Dec. 22, 1836. He came with his parents to
the U. S in 1853, and to Fulton Co. in 1861. He has filled several
responsible local official positions, but does not seek popularity. Oti
Dec. 24, 1867, he was united in marriage with Cynthia Kunk, who
has borne him 6 children, — 2 boys and 4 girls, — all of whom are
living. Mr. S. is engaged in agricultural pursuits on sec. 16. P.
O., Ellisville.
Philip Tliarp, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O., Fairview ; is a son
of David and Eleanor (Tracy) Tharp, and was born in Perry Co.,
O., Sept. 8, 1822 ; removed with his parents to Licking Co., O., in
'31, thence to Knox Co., O., in '44, next to Logan Co., ()., in '47,
and to Fulton Co., TIL, the same year; lived temporarily in Prairie
City 6 years to educate his children ; received most of his education
at home after marriage; was married in Licking Co., O., Sept. 15,
'42, to Hannah Bevard, by whom he had six children, four of whom,
John X., Enos, Laura O. and Eliza arc living. Both are members
of the Free-Will J^aptist Church. ISIrs. Tharp has been in ill
health for several years, for the improvement of which they have
been traveling in Oregon, California, Washington Ter., and nearly
all the Northern and Western States, and also in Canada.
Joshua Tompkins, son of J. C Tomjikins, whose biography ap-
pears in this work, was born in Fulton, Schoharie Co., N. Y., May
22, 1840. He came from New York to this county in 1871 ; was
educated in the public schools in his native State. Mr. Tompkins
enlisted in the 44th N. Y. Inf. in Oct., 1861, and served nearly 3
years, when he was honorably discharged on account of disability.
His father and all his i)rothers who were old enough for duty — 3 in
number, making 5 in all — were in the late civil war. One brother.
Jay, about 17 years old, was killed very suddenly by the bursting
of a bombshell at Petersburg. Mr. T. was married to TiOtiisa
Sheldon in Oct., 1868. xV farmer, lives in Decrfield, votes the Re-
publican ticket. P. O., Ellisville, 111.
J. C. Tompkins was born in Albany Co., N. Y., Aug. 20, 1813;
removed to Schoharie Co. in 1836, and to this county in 1867; has
been Assessor, School Director and Pathmaster; Avas married in
Sept., 1834, to Miss Elizabeth Mpshier. Ten children were the re-
sult of this union, 7 of whom are living. Mr. T. served in Co. K,
2d N. Y. Heavy Artillery, in the late Rebellion ; was in the battle
of the Wilderness, and was present when Lee surrendered. Four
of his sons, Joshua, Henry, George and J. also fought for the stars
and stripes. Joshua was discharged for disability ; Henry was taken
prisoner at the second battle of Bull Run and exchanged ; and J.,
612 HISTORY OF FUT.TON COUNTY.
while fighting nobly for his country by his father's side, was in-
stantly killed by an exploding shell. Mr. T.'s family Bible was
owned by his grandfather, Tompkins, and is over 100 years old.
He is a farmer and stock-raiser. P. ()., P^llisville.
Thomas (t. Turner, farmer ; P. O., EUisville ; is a son of Horace
and Ann Jane(Higgins) Turner; was born in Rensellaer Co., X. Y.,
Oct. 7, 1831; came to this county with his parents in 1838; has
held the offices of Road Commissioner, School Director and School
Trustee. The old log house is still on the old home place near
Canton in which his father and family lived in 1838; was married
Feb. 18, 1854, to Harriet McKinzie, by whom he has 9 children, —
Ida, M'ho is teaching in Iowa, Geo. E., Lillie (teaching in Fulton
Co.), Anna, Richard, Josephine, Leonidas and Lenore ; the last two
being twins. His father at one time was Representative for Fulton
Co. His mother is living in Joshua toAvnship.
Samuel R. Twining, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O., Fiatt ; son of
Hiram and Lovey (Peas) Twining, was born Jan. 30, 1831, in
Licking Co., O. ; removed to Burlington, Iowa, thence back to Lan-
caster, O., thence to Zanesville, thence to New Philadelphia, O.,
and in 1870 to Fulton Co., 111. ; had no other educational advan-
tages than those furnished by the common schools of Ohio. Was
called out with the militia durinii: Morgan's raid in Ohio ; was
married Sept. 13, 18o-"J, to Sarah E. Overstreet, by whom he has
two boys, — Clarence W. and Edwin H. ^L'. and Mrs. T. are mem-
bers of the M. E. Church. He has traveled through the West
and South, and at one time was on a steamer that sank 25 miles
below St. Louis, and remained on the ]>art that was above water
(for the water was shallow) until the next day.
John W. Ilsinfjer was born in Fulton county Dec. 26, 1852.
His father, Daniel Utsinger, was born in Germany and settled in
Fulton county at an early day. The subject of this sketch is a
farmer and stock-raiser ; also does his own blacksmithing ; has been
Constable, and is the present Collector; has never been out of Illi-
nois. In 1875 he came near losing his life in a well containing
what is commonly known as damps, while rescuing some men who
had made the attemjit to rescue a boy who went down after his hat
which had fallen in. One man, Joseph Crowl, died in the well. Is
one of the building committee of the Wilev church, erected this
year (1879). P. O., EUisville.
Xdfhaniel C. Vaiu/hn was born Jan. 2, 1822, in Madison county,
O. His parents removed with him to Knox county, Pa., in '28,
where in '29 all that was near and dear to him, his parents and all
his brothers and sisters, were brutally murdered by the treacherous
Seliqua Indians; while he, with some other children were taken
from the fort and carried into captivity. After seven years of In-
dian life, where he was well educated in archery, he was rescued by a
Mr. Welch, a trapper, who got permission to keep the boy one moon,
and again two moons at another time, iintjl he finally stole him
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 613
away, riding in the night for three niglits in succession, and lying
concealed in day-time. He stayed with Mr. Granwood that winter
and removed to Ohio with Silas Underwood in '42, and in '50 went
to Indiana, thence to Kansas in '58, from there to Fort Kearney,
Neb., and returned to Kansas in '59. He enlisted, June 3, 1861,
in Co. F, 1st Kansas Inf , and served 3 years in the Rebellion ; was
in the battles of Wilson ('reek, Mulligan's Defeat, Stone River and
Shiloli ; was married in April, '66, to Barbara Wilson, by whom he
has two little boys. He is now farming on the farm of J. C. Tomp-
kins. Although he is a strong Republican he is a member of the
M. E. Church, South. As a result of his early Indian training, he
is the best marksman in Deerfield township, and we doubt if there
be another as good in Fulton county. P. O., EUisville.
John T. Vitfum, son of D. W. Vittum, jr., and Ellen (Tarlton)
Vittum, of Canton, was born near Canton Oct., 6, '54 ; was edu-
cated in Canton. He is the present (1879) Supervisor for Deerfield
township ; was married May 30, '77, to Murcey Craig, of Joshua
township. Mr. Vittum's great-grandmother lives in Mass., and is
99 years old. The subject of this sketch is a farmer, and deals
largely in stock. Politically he is a Democrat. Like most young
married boys, he goes quite often to see father and mother, and con-
sequently passes Fiatt and Cuba and gets his mail in Canton.
Joshua Weaver is a son of the late AVilliam Weaver, of Fulton
county, and was born Dec. 31, 1820, in Greene county. Pa. ; came to
this county with his parents in April, 1835. His father on arriving
here purciiased the land entered by Robert Reeves, who was the
first settler in Deerfield township, on the tract of land known as
Reeves' Prairie. Mr. W. has been Pathmaster, Assessor and Super-
visor; also School Director 20 years; was married April 14, '42, to
Mary A. Dykeman, by whom he had 3 children. He was again
married Oct. 21, '51, this time to Eliza A. Martin, by whom he has
4 children, 3 of whom are married and living in this county, viz:
Mary E., Harmon and James A. Both Mr. and Mrs. W. ai'e mem-
bers of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church, in which Mr. W. has
been Elder 23 years, and has been sent twice to the General Assem-
bly: first to Memphis, Tenn., in 1857, next to Huntsville, Ala., in
'73; has l)cen crippled with rheumatism for 20 years and has travel-
ed in 15 States for the benefit of his health. His father was born
in Lancaster, Pa., and died in this county, April 11, '79, at the age
of 88 years. The father of Mrs. Weaver, John H. Martin, was
Clerk and Judge of the first election for county officers in Fulton
county, and the pen with which he wrote was made from a (|uill
which Mrs. Totten took from a goose on the morning of tiie elec^-
tion, and the poll-book was a fly-leaf frdni Mrs. Totten's Bible.
Mr. W. is a farmer and stock-raiser. P. O., EUisville.
Mxrvin IV.ieeler. The subject of this sketch was born in Warren
Co., N. Y., Jan. 15, 1813; moved with his parents to Jefferson
614 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
county, N. Y., in 1824, where he spent the most of his early life,
and where he married Polly A. Hoselton, Feb. 10, '33, who is also
a native of N. Y. Eight children are the result of this union, 5 of
whom are living, — CaJphurnia, Sally, Myron, Reuben A. and Em-
eline. Mr. and Mrs. \V. are working members of the Christian
(New-Light) Church ; is a carpenter and joiner by trade, but is
farming at present. Has worked at ship-building. Mr. W. had
nothing to commence with, but went to work with a will, and when
he arrived at Canton, 111., in 1850, had but 85 dollars; now he owns
a large farm. Is mail contractor from Fiatt to Cuba. P. O., Fiatt.
Nathaniel White, farmer, sec. 4 ; P. O., Ellisville ; was born in
Licking Co., O., March 1, 1833. He came to this county with his
parents, Willis and Elizabeth (Berry) White, when five years of age.
In 1850, during the great gold excitement, he went overland to
California. He mined for three months and for some time was en-
gaged in the provision business. He returned by ship to New
York, thence home. Mr. W. was united in marriage with ^liss
Sarah Prichard, daughter of an early pioneer, and a native of Ful-
ton Co., May 16, 1858. The union has been blessed with 6 chil-
dren,— 3 girls and 3 boys. While in Cal. he in a company of about
500 started across San Francisco Bay for the Gold Bluffs, but when
far out in the Bay the vessel sprang a leak, and their lives were
saved onlv bv casting all their mules and other carg-o overboard,
and by all hands bailing out water with their gold buckets.
SUPERVISORS.
J.M.Martin 1850 Conrad Marklev 1871
J. J. Webber 1851-52 Jacob Kreider.! 1873
Martin Judy 1853 M. H. Mitchell 1874
Joseph Sparks 1854 Joshua Weaver 1875-76
U. W. Dickson 1855-62 Conrad Marklev 1877
Conrad Marklev 1863-65 Joshua Weaver 1878
U. W. Dickson.' 1867-70 John T. Vittum 1879
TOWN CLERKS.
Samuel Glass 1859-73 L. B. Ault 1878
L. B. Ault 1874-76 John T. Rockhold 1879
John T. Rockhold 1877
ASSESSORS.
U. W. Dickson 1859-60 Owen Gagon 1871
Conrad Marklev 1861-62 J. C.Tompkins 1873
John Rose ." 1867 Conrad Marklev 1874-76
Conra<l Marklev 1868 John M. Mahr 1877
A. C. Marklev.'. 1869 Conrad Marklev 1878
Conrad Marklev 1870 Levi Brown ..." 1879
COLLECTORS.
M. H. Mitchell 1859-61 Samuel Glass 1870-71
L. B. Ault 1862-65 J. P.Walters 1873-74
Willard Smith 1866 John M. Mahr 1875-76
Dennis Bu.sh 1867 C. L. Mahr 1877-78
Wm. Mvers 1868-69 John W. Utsinger 1879
ELLISVILLE TOWNSHIP.
The life of Levi D. Ellis, the founder of the village of Ellisville,
is so completely interwoven with the history of this township that
we deem a short personal sketch of him important in this connection.
He was born in South Carolina in the year 1789, and a half-orphan,
his father having died before his birth. At the age of thirteen he
went to Tennessee, leaving his friends behind, who however joined
him two years thereafter. From there he moved to Illinois, stop-
ping near Belleville ; from there to where Springfield now stands,
which was at that time a wilderness. Mr. Ellis here cut the first
tree for the first cabin ever erected in the capital city. He came to
Fulton county in 1838, and located in Joshua township, his being
the second family in the township. Here he built a mill. In 1828
he moved to this township and erected the first house in the town-
ship on the site of the present town of Ellisville. In 1829 he erected
the first mill on Spoon river.
Mr. Ellis had a family of eight sons and one daughter. During
the Winnebago Indian war he built a fort near Canton, where he kept
his family and neighbors in garrison for six weeks. He died after
a useful career in March, 1855.
The village of Ellisville was founded in 1830. It was at one time
a great center for business. The people for forty miles around
came here to have their grain ground and do their trading. But this
prosperity was banished on the construction of the C, B. & Q. Rail-
road.
The remains of an Indian village, just across Spoon river from
Ellisville and upon section 32, was to be seen for several years after
the first settlers came in.
There have been two Churches organized in the township, — the
Methodist Episcopal and United Presbyterian. The dates of or-
ganization are not positively known, as the records could not be
obtained, and both organizations are almost extinct. There is a
union Sunday-school, and services every Sunday; but neither con-
gregation employs a minister. The church edifice was erected in 1850,
by the United Presbyterians, and was subsequently sold to the Metho-
dists by James Shear, who ,had a mechanic's lien upon it. The
Pleasant Hill United Brethren Church, more commonly known as
the Vinegar Hill Church, was organized in Feb., 1875, by T. T.
Parvin, with 14 members. Services are held here every two weeks
in "Vinegar Hill School-house." The present membership number
40. I
Gl() HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
The Ellisville mill, which was known far and wide, was re-built
in 1869 by Sheckler Bros. & Co., who have also added a saw-mill to
it. The capacity of the mill at present is 75 l)arrel.s in 24 hours.
The first school-house in the township was built in 1S40, and
Chas. O. Nickerson was the first teacher. There are are now three
school buildings in the township.
Tlie Ellisville iron bridge, erected by the King Bridge Company,
of C^leveland, O., over Spoon river in 1876, consists of one span 240
feet long. It is the longest single-span wagon-bridge in the State,
and is said to be the best.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
Brief personal sketches of the leading citizens of the township are
an interesting portion of its history.
J. 31. Bell, son of Geo. and Mary (Stewart) Bell, of Virginia,
was born Jan. 14, 1828, in Morgan Co., Ohio. He is a prominent
teacher in this county, and was educated at Sharon, O. He entered
upon his chosen profession in 1850, which he has successfully fol-
lowed until the present, resting but one year in the entire 29 years;
removed to Iowa in 1853, where he engaged in teaching, and where
in 1854 he very successfully taught one of his pupils the science of
matrimony, in the person of Nancy A. Ham. They returned to
Ohio in 1857, and in 1859 he taught the school in which he receiv-
ed his education; returned to Iowa in 1860, and in 1863 removed
to this county. Has been farming in the summer season for the past
4 years. They have had 7 children. Angus F. was killed by light-
ning on the evening of Oct. 8, 1878, then 19 years old. George
M., the eldest son, received part of his education in Lewistown, 111.,
and has been teaching very successfully for 2 years. He is also
Fourth Sergeant in Co. K, 4th regiment 111. National Guards. An-
other son, Pressley, is also a member of the same.
Simon B. Beer, physician and surgeon, Ellisville, is a son of the
late AVilliam Beer, of Joshua township, and was born in that town-
ship Sept. 29, 1837. His mother, Rachel Beer, nee Burns, is a na-
tive of New York, and is 84 years old. The subject of this sketch
was educated at Prairie City Academy and Abingdon Collcije, and
is a graduate of the Eclectic Medical College, of Cincinnati, O. He
served as First Lieutenant in CV). B, 103d 111. Inf., in the Rebellion ;
resigned his commission in 1864; was drafted the same year;
he em])loyed a substitute at a cost of ^800, and the officers accepted
the sui)stitute but also kept Mr. B., and he and substitute were com-
pelled to serve until 1865. He entered the teachers' field at the age
of 18 years, and remained in that profession 12 years. In 1867,
after receiving his medical education, began the practice of medicine,
in which profession he is still engaged. As a ])hysician he has been
very successful, and is noted for his reasonable charges during these
hard times ; was Supervisor of Young Hickory township 3 years.
He was married August 21, 1871, to Ellen Smith of Fairview
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. ' 017
township, bv whom he has a little girl, — Lulu Maud. He is a mem-
ber of the Hampden Purple Ribbon Movement and also a temper-
ance lecturer.
Joshua Culver, fiirmer and stock-raiser, sec. 7; P. O., St. Augus-
tine; was born in Essex Co., N. Y., Sept. 11, 1824, and is the son
of John and Nancy (Mills) Culver; the former is a descendant of
one of the Pilgrim Fathers. His grandfather, , was so
much oppressed by the British that he escaped by swimming 5
miles and stealing: his wav on an American vessel, and was thus
landed on the shores of freedom. Our subject was married Oct. 8,
1859, to Emily Fisher, daughter of Thomas Fisher, who served in
the Black Hawk war. Mrs. Culver's grandmother, Peterson, made
bullets all night one time at the beginning of the war in 1832. Mr.
C. served in the Rebellion in Co. H, 32d 111. Inf He enlisted Oct.
15, 1864, discharged Sept. 16, 1865. Grandmother Fisher lives
with her daughter. Thev have but one child, John T., born Aug.
24, 1867.
FoKfer A. Fisk is a son of Levi and Mary A. (Bacon) Fisk and was
born in Martinsburg, N. Y., Oct. 4, 1821, and received a common-
school education in that State ; moved to Constantia, N. Y., in '36 ;
and in '44 came to Fulton county. Mr. F. was united in marriage
July 3, '46, with Harriet El. Bliss, who bore him 9 children, 8 boys
and 1 girl. Emma is married to John Mott, and living near Fort
Scott, Kan. Delbert C. is also married, and is a druggist in Leroy,
111. Mr. F. served in the late Rebellion, in the Carpenters' Corps;
was Road Commissioner 8 years; also served as School Director,
and School Trustee about the same length of time. He, in company
with some neighbors, opened a mound near Ellisville a few years
ago in which they found two stone hatchets and a copper camp-
kettle. He carries on farming, but works at the chair and cabinet
business himself at Ellisville.
Jolni Fonts, farmer and wagon-maker, Ellisville, was born in
Huntingdon county. Pa., Feb. 18, 1826, and is the son of Michael
and Elizabeth (Kuhn) Fonts ; the former is living in Iowa, and the
latter is dead. He is twin brother to the father of Frank F. Fonts,
of Deerfield, whose biogra])hy api)ears in this work. His uncle
William Andyke, in about the year 1823 walked from IMiiladelpiiia,
Pa., to Pittsburg, where he procured a canoe and rowed down the
Ohio river to its mouth, thence up the Mississippi river to St. Louis,
which was then just a French trading post. From St. I^ouis he
rowed on and entered the mouth of the Illinois river, and up this
stream to its head, and there abandoned his can<je and walked across
to Chicago, which was, as St. Louis, a French trading post. From
Chicago he traveled on foot across the wilderness to Philadelphia,
He stopped and explored caves on the journey, and also drew a maj)
of the country, and some very fine landscape views (for he was an
artist). He was a native of Germany. Mr. F. came to this county
in '51, by river, crossing the Alleghany mountains in a boat, pulled
618 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
bv mountain R. R. engines. Has been School Director, Collector
and Constable; married Sarah McCracken, Dec. 11, '56, by whom
he had 12 children, 9 of whom are living and all at home; Ijoth are
members of the Christian Church.
Francis B. Frcy. — The subject of this sketch was born in Union
county, Pa., July 30, 1840, and is the son of Charles and Sarah
(Ritter) Frey, of that State. He moved to Nebraska in '66, where
he resided 3 years, and in '69 came to Illinois, and '70 removed to
Kansas and remained there 6 years when he returned to this county
and resides in Ellisville. He enlisted Sept. 7, '61, in Co. E, 51st
Pa. Inf , and re-enlisted Jan. 1, '64, and remained until the close of
the war. He was married Jan. 9, '72, in Marysville, Kan., to Adda
M. Stout. He has no children, but Mrs. F. has one little girl by
her first husband. He is a Lutheran and she is Catholic. Mr. F.
was a miller for Sheckler Brothers & Co. in '69, and was employed
by them on his return from Kansas, which situation he still holds.
AJpheus \V. (roodridge. — He of whom we now speak was born
Feb. 2, 1832, in Windsor county, Vt., and is the son of Jason and
Caroline (Willard) Goodridge, who removed with their son to York
State in '36, and in '55 came to Fulton county and settled in Ellis-
ville tp., where they still live. His father was born in Westmin-
ster, X. Y., June 26, 1801 ; practiced medicine 30 years in Ver-
mont. The powder-horn and gun that his great-grandfather took
from a dead British soldier at the battle of Bennington, are still in
the Goodridge family. Mr. G. has been Road Commissioner 12
years. Town Clerk and is Secretary of the I. O. O. F. of Ellisville.
He was married Dec. 31, '56, to Sophia Torrey, by whom he had 4
children. He was left a widower, and he was again married, March
9, '71, to Margaret Freer, daughter of Abraham Freer, who is liv-
ing with his son-in-law, at the age of 77 years. Mr. G. has 3 chil-
dren bv his second wife. He was formerlv a distiller, but is now
engaged in farming. Is a member of the Ellisville Cornet Baud.
P. O., Ellisville.
William E. Haines, physician and surgeon, Ellisville. Dr. H. is
a son of \\ m. E. and Ellen M. (Cheyney) Haines, of Pennsylvania,
and was born in Chester Co., Pa., July 2, 1839; received most of
his education in the New London Academy, and graduated in the
medical department of the University of Pa. in '67; came to Illinois
on a visit in '61, and while here, enlisted in Co. G, 11th 111. Cavalr>',
and served during the rebellion ; was in the battles of Shiloh, Vicks-
burg and other important engagements; was taken prisoner at Cor-
inth, and was released in six weeks; went with Sherman on his
famous march to the sea. The Doctor was married March 19, 1867,
to Mary Anna Starr, in Philadelphia, Pa., by whom he has two girls,
— Mary E. and Jennie S. Mrs. H. is a member of the Quaker
(Friends) Church. The Dr. first practiced his profession six months
in the Philadelphia Hospital, at the end of which time he came to
Ellisville, and began practice here, and has merited and received a
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 619
large practice, the records of which will compare favorably with any
physician in the country.
Madison Head, son of John and Rhoda (Baker) Head, natives of
New York, was born in Tompkins Co., N. Y., Jan. 13, 1829. He
was educated in the Mecklenburg high school ; removed to Steuben
county, N. Y., in '53, and to Fulton county in '65 ; removed to
Avon in '60, where he engaged in the practice of law until '77, when
he returned to his farm in Ellisville township, sec. 6. His career
in the legal profession has been one of continued success for 20 years,
but weak lungs drove him to abandon his chosen profession, although
he still attends to a few cases for old friends. His grandfather
Head was a native of Conn. He was married Jan. 15, '51, to Sarah
Soule, who died in August, '64. He married again Aug. 21, '65, to
Mary E. Wright, daughter of Daniel N. Wright. They had a girl
and boy ; Myra, born Dec. 7,' 73, and an infant. P. O., Avon.
David Hogseft was born Dec. 8, 1823, in Rockingham Co., Va.,
and is the son of James and Elizabeth (Munse) Hogsett, who were
both natives of Virginia. His parents removed with him to High-
land Co., Ohio, in 1829, and to Fulton county in 1837. He re-
ceived his education at home, never having attended a public or select
school. He was a soldier in the Mormon war and saw Smith about
three hours before his death ; went overland to California in 1850, and
returned in '55, and in '56 married Miss M. Hosselkuf : Wm. N.,
born Oct. 9, '58, is their only child. He is a graduate of the Gem
City Business College, of Quincy, 111. Mr. H. again crossed the
plains to California in '63 and engaged in mining, and collected
several thousands of dollars together and returned in '68, settling
in the quiet village of Ellisville. He did not cross the plains with-
out privations and snifering ; at one time he traveled on an allow-
ance of 3 biscuits a day, and a stranger came along in a suffering
condition and Mr. H. divided his only , biscuit with him. Mr. H.
owns a farm near Ellisville.
George Lemon, farmer, sec. 19; P.O., Ellisville; was born in
Alleghany Co., Pa., March 14, 1840, and is the son of David and
Elizabeth (Ramaley) Lemon ; the former was also a native of Pa.
Received a common-school education in the Keystone State, and
enlisted Aug. 11, '62, in Co. F, 139th Pa. Inf., served during
the Rebellion, and was discharged June 21,1865. On the 13th of
June, 1867, he took unto himself a wife in the person of Margaret
Speer, daughter of Thomas Speer, who came to this county in '56,
and still lives in this townsliip. They have four children, and their
names are Perry D., Mary R., Nancy E. and Amanda J. Mr. and
Mrs. L. are members of the United Brethren Church. Mr. L. lived
in Grasshop]>erdom (Kansas), from 1871 to '74.
James N. Moore, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 31 ; P. O., Ellis-
ville. The subject of this sketch was born in Cayuga Co., N. Y.,
Jan. 10, 1817. His parents, John and Mary H. (Lyon) Moore,
died in New York. He was educated in part in the common schools
620 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
of X. Y., and attended the first school in Galesburg, which was
styled an Academy, with Xehemiah Losey, princij)al. He attended
one session of court in the old log court-house in Knox county.
Has been School Director, School Trustee, Road Overseer, Road
Comr., and Supervisor. He was married Oct, 2, '43, to Catharine
Hand, by whom he had 5 children ; she died in '51, and he married
Lvdia Carrier, Sept. 22, '53. His son Henry L. is married and liv-
intr in EUisville. Mr. and Mrs. M. are members of the Sweden-
borgian Church.
Charles B. Reed. The subject of this personal sketch was born
to James and Elizabeth (Beer) Reed in Wayne Co., O., Oct. 30, '23.
His parents removed with their family to Beaver Co., Pa., in 1826,
and to Fulton Co. in '39 ; was educated in the common schools of
the Keystone State and of this county. He experienced much sick-
ness for 3 years after first settling here. He was married May 20,
1848, to Martha Terrell, in Fairview. Two boys and 9 girls are
the result of this union, seven of whom are living. Mr. and Mrs.
R. are members of the Missionary Baptist Church. He is farming
at present, but is a carpenter by trade. P. O., EUisville.
Charles F. Robison, son of Marvin and Alniira (Vandercar) Rob-
ison of New York, was born Jan. 1, 1843, in Arcadia, X. Y. ; his
father died in California in 1863, and his mother lives in that State
at present. Mr. R. when but three years old was brought by his
parents to Woodstock, (now Avon) Fulton Co. He is a graduate
of Knox Colleire, and also arraduated in Brvant & Stratton's Com-
mercial College, in the unprecedented short period of 8 weeks,
which is the shortest time on record, of graduating in that or any
other first-class Commercial College ; served in Co. D, 1st 111. Cav.,
during the Rebellion ; has taught school several years, and was
principal of the EUisville schools a short time; went to California
in '52. and returned in '58. He again crossed the plains to the
Golden State in '63, and returned in '66 and took one of Illinois'
fair ones to the far-off Pacific coast. While there he was book-
kee])er and head salesman fi>r Vanwinkle c*^ Co., two years; wa<
merchant and im])orter S years, and was Captain of Co, A, 1st Cal,
National (iuards Cavalry; also traveled to Mexico, South America
and the Sandwich Islands, He returned with fiimily to 111. in '71.
Has been a member of the State Legislature for 4 years ; is an at-
tornev at law and Notary Pul)lic, and is present Corporation Attor-
ney fi)r EUisville. His wife, Mary L. (Howell) Robison of Union
township, has borne him 2 children, Almira P, and Marvin T,
Thomas Ross, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 17; P, O,, EUisville;
was born in Champaign Co., O., Oct. 12, 1818, and is the son of
Mitchell and Mary (Stockton) Ross, of Delaware. His grandfather
Ross was one of the famous Ross brothers, who at one time owned
the fast horses of Delaware. The old gentleman contracted his last
illness while lying by his horse to prevent some enemy from poison-
ing it, which was practiced very much in those days. His father
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 621
was a teamster '\n the war of ISI'2, and on one occasion left the fort
the morning previons to the killing of all in garrison by the enemy;
has been School Director 17 years; was married March 1, 1838, to
Mary C. Carson, by whom he had 0 children. He was left a wid-
ower in 1852, and on Feb. 23, '53 he was married to Eliza J. Van-
winkle, who bore him 5 children. Of all his children 8 are living,
five married, and one, Stockton J., is a suceessfnl school-teacher.
They are Predestinarian Baptists.
Daniel Shccklcr, brother of David Sheckler, of EllisvilTe, whose
biography also appears in this work, was born in Union Co., Pa.,
March 27, 1825, and received a common-school education in that
country; came to Ellisville in '54, near which he still lives. Has
been Assessor four terms, and was Supervisor 10 years. He was
married Mar. 24, '50, to Mary Henning, who has presented him
with 11 children, 9 of whom are living. Winlield S. is in Califor-
nia. Mr. and Mrs. S. are Presbyterians. He is a carpenter and
joiner by trade, but is farming at present,
David Sheckler, of the firm of Sheckler Bros. & Co., millers,
Ellisville, is a son of Adam and Elizabeth (Struble) Sheckler, and
was born in Union Co., Pa., Aug. 5, 1836 ; was educated in the
common schools of his native State; moved to Mercer Co., Pa., in
1852, and to Fulton Co. in 1862. Sept. 21, 1857, he was united in
marriage with Lydia Struble in Mercer Co., Pa. The fruits of this
union are 10 children, 8 of whom are living, and all at home. Mr.
S. has been engaged in the milling business since 1869. He was
formerly a carpenter.
D. B. Smith, grocer, Ellisville. D. B. Smith is a son of Anson
and Mercey INI. Smith, and was born in Huron Co., ()., March 7,
1832. Although his parents bore the .same name before they were
married, thev were not related. He came to this county with them
in 1837, and received a common-school education here. His father
died in 1865, but his mother is still living with him at the age of
70 years. He was united in marriage in October, 1857, with Han-
nah Wiard, in Avon, by whom he had 3 children, two of whom are
living, — Anson and Lincoln. Mr. S., as the date infers, has been
in Illinois over 47 years. He at one time knew every man in Ful-
ton county; spent 3 years in Montana prospecting ; owns three lead
claims there yet.
James A. H. Speer; post-office address, Ellisville. Mr. S. is a
son of Thomas and Xancy (Lemon) Speer, of Ellisville town-
ship, and was born in Alleghany Co., Pa., Dec. 5, 1827: was edu-
cated in the Mercantile College at Pittsburg, Pa., and came to this
county in 1856. His grandfather Speer was of Scotch-Irish descent,
and was born and raised in Pennsylvania. He served in the Re-
bellion, enlisting in Aug., 1861, in Co. A, 47th 111. Inf., and was
discharged Oct. 26, 1865; has filled the offices of School Director,
Commissioner of Highways, and was Assessor 12 years; was mar-
ried June 12, 1871, to Mary O. Welch, daughter of Joseph Welch,
622
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
of Young Hickory township. They have had 5 children, 4 of whom
are livintj, — Elva, ^loninia, Gail and an infant. He has traveled
through the West, South and Southwest. He is a painter by pro-
fession but is now farming.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a full and complete list of the Supervisors,
Clerks, Assessors and Collectors serving in this township since its
organization :
SUPERVISORS.
G. S. Curtis 1850
Anson Smith 1851-62
J. E. McXair 1863
G. W. Fox 1864-66
Daniel Shackler 1867-76
James N. Moore 1877
Irving C. Fox 1878-79
TOWN CLERKS.
JohnRevnolds 1850 J.
C. P. Bobrn 1851 O
John Revnolds 1852 T
C. P. Boorn 1853-60 I.
D. B. Smith 1861-62
W. Dodds 1863-64
H. Bliss 1865-66
D. Griffith 1867-72
C. Fox 1873-75
T. D. Griffith 1876-79
ASSESSORS.
S. H. Sivlev 1850-51
T. F. Jarrel 1852
James X. Moore 1853-54
Chandler HoUister 1855
Daniel Sheckler 1856-59
G. W. Fox 1860-61
O. F. Curtis. 1862
Wm.McCracken 1863-64
J. M. Wiard 1865
M. W. ("ozad 1866
J. A. H. Speer 1867-70
W. P. Garrison 1871
J. A. H. Speer 1872-79
COLLECTORS.
S. H. Sivlev 1850-5]
Wm. Herfiot 1852
Thomas Bell 1853-54
S. H. Sivlev 185.5-59
O. D. Carpenter 1860-62
John Fouts 1863-64
M. W. Cozad 1865
William Smith 1866
N. Crutz 1867
Wm. Kirkendall 1868-69
D. B. Smith 1870
.John Wallirk 1871
D. B. Smith 1872-79
FAIRVIEW TOWNSHIP.
Matthias Swegle was the first settler to locate in this beautiful
townshi]-. He caine from New Jersey and settled at the head of
Swegle creek in 1829. He Avas a very large man and of but little
education. He attended school here after he located in the town-
ship. He was a pupil of Mr. Morris when he weighed 340 pounds.
When he first started to school his oldest child was 22 years old.
He was in the spelling class with his younger children and would
take his place among the little fellows as they stood up to spell.
He attended school about three months. He was a generous, ])ublic-
spirited man, and as Peter Puniyea's house was tlie house of the
average Jerseyman, so was Matthias Swegle's that of the itinerant
Methodist persuasion. He made a wooden cannon during the
Black Hawk war to frighten the Indians with. He was the first
Justice of the Peace.
Among the early settlers were John Hall, who settled on section
7; Moses Johnson, who located on 7, east and adjoining Hall;
Jerrod Lyons located on section 8 ; Wesley Cope upon 6 ; and
others.
As the history of the town is so closely identified with that of the
township we proceed to give a sketch of it :
FAIRVIKW.
The eldest son of Richard Addis (spoken of in the history of
Canton, whose name was also Richard), lived for many years in
Fairview tp., then only a wilderness, and induced his cousin, Peter
Pumyea, through correspondence, to visit this State in 1835. This
year was the beginning of the great internal-improvement system
of the State and at a time when speculation ran rife, and also a year
when the cholera prevailed. Then many persons were almost at the
point of death from an imaginary contact, but being assured that
the supposed infectious party had no real cholera, were almost im-
mediately restored to health. Nevertheless the fever of specula-
tion seized Mr. Pumyea, and he was induced to sell out and move
West. In the spring of 1836, with four good teams and well filled
wagons, started for Illinois, and after nearly two months of arduous
travel arrived in Fulton county, where he purchased of S. Dyer the
property long occupied by himself and family as the homestead
farm. Upon this place at that time was erected a double staked and
624 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
ridered cabin, one of the largest size and deemed by many of that
day an extravagant mansion ; and upon its being raised two logs all
around to meet the requirements of the family and visitants, ena-
bling a person to stand erect, the exclamation went forth that
" Peter Pumyea was too proud for this country." And when he
added improvements on the farm, among them a " horse rake," it
was regarded as a great innovation. The early preachers would
discourse valiantly upon the evils of pride, even to the exent that
superfluous l)uttons upon the tails of coats could and should be dis-
pensed with. This sort of preaching, however, soon proved to be
unpopular and behind the age of progress and a better state of civ-
ilization. Too, all persons not in full sympathy with the dominant
sect were stvled " Campbellites." Thev were also often dubbed
*'Blue-bcllicd Yankees."
Through repeated correspondence with their friends in the East,
although letter postage was then 25 cents, a desire was awakened in
many to better their condition by coming West. To take advan-
tage of the circumstances of that time, when immigration was large,
Moses Hall and Benjamin Foster put their lands upon the market,
by conceiving and coalescing with others in the laying out of a town.
Accordingly in the year 1837 they laid out the original town of
Fairview, which was added to ujion the west by Peter Pumyea and
Richard Davis. Jonas Rawalt did the surveying. The town was
first called Utica, but as there was already a town by that name in
the county, its name was changed to Fairview. The survey of the
town was made by Jonas Rawalt, who now resides in Orion tp.
The town was started and the way was thus opened and every
inducement given to mechanics and tradesmen to locate here. Lots
were set apart for certain religious sects to occupy, and as Rev. A.
D. Wilson was sent out in the year 1837 as a missionary in the in-
terest of the Dutch Reformed Church, it secured a very nice loca-
tion. In order to meet the anticipated growth that was expected to
follow the founding of the Church, Rev. Wilson and Peter Pumyea
were selected to go back East and solicit donations,' and we find
a credit upon']\Ir. Pumyea's book of §449 collected by him, mostly
in small amounts ; and through the strenuous efforts of Cornelius
AVyckoif. sr., John G. A^oorhces, Richard Davis, Rev. Wilson and
many others, the plan of a building was carried out sufficient to
meet every future contingency as to increase, of population.
For a time the influx of immigration was considerable, and prior
to the time of the era of railroads, Fairview was as good a business
point as any town in the county. It then had several pork-packing
establishments, and many stores and grain warehouses, which have
long since been but little used ; and what was once an incentive to
capitalists to encourage and jiromote has long since lost its charms.
Many claimed that this was the result of the selfishness of certain
would-be aspirants and tenacity, of some to hold and keep the offices
and the Church ascendancy, and arrogating to themselves the em-
-'S'^s
of" ^
FAIRVJEW
l^g:'^g>e^Ay'
OF THE
UNIVERSITY Of ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 627
bodiment of all good. That the prcpoiKlerance of influence has
been derogatory to railroads, is true, as it would necessitate a change
of population and sentiment, and, as is claimed that many as-
serted, "its corrupting influence;" thus counteracting and over-
balancing; the zeal and encroy of those who made every eflljrt to
obtain a railroad, and avert the present situation. But a better feel-
ing now prevails, and Fairview will soon have a railroad, thereby
opening up a way for capital and enterprise to come in and assist
those already here in develojiing the resources, and opening up the
vast mines of coal underlying this entire section.
While for a time the "Jersey element" was regarded with con-
siderable jealousy and susj)ici()n, and on the principle that " like
begets like," the drawing of one imaginary State line would tighten
that of another, and consecpientlv there was for a time very little
interchange of opinion and sentiment. Yet we find that as early as
1838 the "Jersey element" is recognized by the township choosing
Richard Davis, Elijah ]\[orton, Moses (\ Johnson, Jonathan Mark-
ley, and Asa Shreevcs School Trustees, and Peter Pumyea Treas-
urer. The latter retained the treasurership and other town offices
until his death in 1850.
We find upon a school schedule a certificate by Joshua Cooper for
two sessions in the year 1838, the following families rejircsented
in the Richard Addis neighborhood, viz : northeast of Fairview
village — Foster, Leeker, Davis, Tipton, Williamson, Addis, and
Martin. The teacher received for his service? $13.95. In 1840 we
find added to the above list Barlow, Denison, Hickman, Romine
and Kelsey. In the Fairview District taught by Abraham Gulick
there are represented in 1830, the following families : Groenendyke,
Martin, Vorhees, Wilson, WyckofT, Davis, Gilmore, Prumyea, Dar-
land, llagaman and Polhemus. School commenced April 8, and
ended Saturday, June 14, 183L', and the amount paid teacher was
$28.91.
We find that the school in the west neighborhood, taught by
Reuben F. Markham, commenced Dec. 7, 1840, and Avas closed April
22, 1841. There were five families sending children to this school:
Therman, Hughl)anks, Cope, Johnson and (Jreen, and at §2 per
scholar. The teacher's services amounted to $24.25, and the teacher's
certificate was certified to by Edward Therman and Jacob Shellen-
berger, "employers."
In the Swegle district sciiool, tauglit by Richard M. Jones, i)e-
giuning July 23, 1838, the fidlowing families were represented:
James, Swegle, Overman, (iray, Burnett, Drum, Shreeves, Johnson,
Flowers, Dunn and Smith. The sum of $19 was paid for the ser-
vices of the teacher during the quarter.
In the Fairview Academy tauulit bv S. S. Cornwell, we find the
following persons in attendance : Suydam, Voorhees, Davis, Martin,
Sweeney, Pumyea, Gray, VanArsdale, Foster, Ward, Davis, Lamb,
Wilson, Gilmore, Rockafellow, Mummerst, Foster, Ward, Sweeny,
37
628 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Teethworth, Haj^aman, Voorhees, Darlin<<:, AVvekofT, Polhemus,
Hickman and Addis. During- tlie next term added to these were
Gathey, Laturrette, Young, Weaver and lierger. A certificate
was made out as due from each schohir the sum of §2, and signed
by G. Groenendyke, Benj. Darling and Simon B. Suydam, Direct-
ors. Almost all of these names have become familiar over the
county. The younger jieople have grown up any are to-day classed
among the best and wealthiest people of the county.
Henry B. Evans kept the first store in the town. The first death
that occurred was a child by the name of Hagaman. The town is
beautifully situated.
Fail-view Church. — Upon the 19th of August, 1887, a public
meeting was held in the town of Fairview at the house of Daniel
Groenendyke to make some move toward establishing a Church.
Peter Pumyea was called to preside, and John S. Wyckotf was ap-
pointed secretary. At this time there were less than half a dozen
families living in the infant village and it platted in the midst of
the wilderness, where bloomed the wild roses of the prairie, and,
unmolested, roamed the deer and the antelope. Application was
made to the Synod of the Reformed Church to be furnished with a
preacher. Oct. 3, 1837, Rev. A. D. Wilson, from New Brunswick,
X. J., arrived at Fairview, being sent to see if a Church could be
established. On the 16th the Reformed Church of Fairview was
organized by Rev. Wilson. The organization consisted of 8 mem-
bers, with John S. Wyckoff'and Clarkson Van Nostrand as Elders
and Aaron I). Addis as Deacon. This was the first urganization of
this religious denomination west of the Alleghany Mountains, and
is truly styled " the parent Church of the West." Rev. Wilson
then returned to his home in the East, and left the congregation
without a pastor or a church building. But the peojJe were zealous
and steadfast, and from Sunday to Sunday assenil)U'd for prayer and
praise. These meetings were generally led by Cajit. John S. ^^'yckoff,
who is the only one living of the original members.
Duriug all this time the little band was sending u]> the ^Nlace-
donian cry to their friends in the East to couieand help them. The
matter was laid before the Church authorities in convention assem-
bled, and the cry arose, " who will go?" No one, as he contem-
|)lated the privations and hardships incident to j>ioneer life, had a
desire to endure them. For a time silence reigned. At last a voice
arose in that assend>lv saviuij: "The child born in the wilderness
shall not be left to perish alone. If no one else can be found I
will go." This was the voice of Rev. A. D. Wilson, who the fall
jirevious had organized the congregaticni, but had no expectation or
de.-ire to move West, being pleasantly situated among his congre-
gation at North Branch, N. J. But when this noble man of God
found no one willing to respond to the call he determined to go him-
self; so bid adieu to his bel(»ved home and came here, arriving in
July, 1838, and immediately entered upon his life labor. Meetings
HISTORY OF FITLTON COUNTY. 629
at this time were held in a log cabin, formerly a blacksmith shop,
standing npon the lot occupied by the residence of John Pfeiffer.
This structure was not only used for Church purposes, but for all
public meetings and as a school-house.
Soon l\'ter Pumyea, a generous and noble man, deeded to the
Church a beautiful square of ground upon which to erect a church
edifice. This is the same ground upon which stands the beautiful
and commodious structure, the result of the labors and sacrifices of
these loved and honored ])ioneers, and a monument of the noble
deeds for the master performed under circumstances more trying and
difficult than the present generation, who enjoy the fruits of their
labors, can conceive.
In the fall of 1838 work at the old Academy building was be-
gun. This structure was about 20x40 feet in size, two stories high,
with a belfry. The upper room was designed for holding religious
services in. In the sjiring of 1839 meetings were abandoned in the
old log shanty and th(^ acadV^mv was opened. In the fall of 1838
the foundation of the church was begun, and Nov. 26 the corner-
stone was laid. At hist the frame-work of the building was ready
to be raised. This required the assistance of all the men in the
village and surrounding country, together with aid from Ellisville
and Farmington to raise it. For three years the people struggled
on in the erection of this building befi)re it was ready for dedication.
Aid was required from the East to complete it. Oct. 3, 1841, the
generous contractor, Cornelius Wyckofi*, sen., turned the building
over to the congregation, and it was dedicated to the worship of the
Lord.
On the 1 1th of April, 18of), Rev. A. D. Wilson resigned as Pas-
tor, and Rev. Wm. Anderson took charge in the fall of the same
year, and served three years. Duri;ig the services of Rev. Wilsoji
no parsonage was furnished, iu> provided his own house and received
what salary tiie j)eoj)le were disj)osed to pay, but during the survices
of Rev. Wm. Anderson a tract of land containing about five acres
was purchased and a large and beautiful parsonage built, it being
the largest dwelling in the village.
Jan. K), 1860, Rev. J. S. Jorahnon was called to the })astorate.
At that time the Church was largely in debt, but to-day no debt or
incumbrance of any kind rests upon any of the property. Besides
the parsonage and cihurch a large and })leasant lecture room stands
on the spot where stood the old academy. The present membersiiip
is about 2( )0.
Schools. — In the summer of 1838, ere the town of Fairview was
scarcely surveyed, the citizens employed Simon S. Wyckoff to teach
school. He tauffht in an old loy; cabin situated where the residence
of John Pfeiffer now is. The second teacher, Mr. Abram Gulick,
taught in an old cabin where now stands Wm. Rockafellow's shop.
In 1839 an academy was built east of, and adjacent to, the Reformed
church. This structure was occupied as a public school-house until
K30 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
1863, when the present school building, in the northwest part of the
town, was erected. It is a two-story frame building, and cost
$3,500. It is surrounded by beautiful grounds, with delightful
grove and lawn, — not excelled perhajis by any })ublie grounds in the
county. Its rooms are well furnished, giving ample and comfort-
able accommodation for 225 pupils. The present school board is
composed of Messrs. P. Berg, F. Davis and Thomas H. Travers,
all of whom take considerable interest in the care and improvement
of the school property and the education of the young.
Fairview Lodge, No. 350, A. F. & A. M. — At an early day the
Free and Accepted Masons urged their claims upon the citizens of
Fairview. The first meeting was held Oct. 18, 1859, with J. S.
Slack, AV. M. Prot. ; Jos. Sanders, S. W. ; J. B. Craigg, J. AV. ; S.
M. Curtis, S. D. ; L. B. Martin, J. D. ; C. M. Martin, Sec; J. M.
Fox, Treas. Brethren present were J. J. Curtis, T. J. Shreeves and
J. C. Williams. Sanders, Craigg and Curtis were a])pointed a com-
mittee on by-laws. The lodge was granted a charter Oct. 3, 1800,
and the following are the charter members: Thomas J. Shreeves,
Joseph Sanders, David Shreeves, J. B. Craigg, J. M. Fox,
Charles B. ]Martin, Samuel M. Curtis and Luther B. Martin. The
officers a})pointed by the charter were Thomas S. Shreeves, W. M. ;
Joseph Sanders, S. W., and David Shreeves, J. W. Nov. 20,
1860, J. T. Slack, D. G. M., officiated in the installation of the
charter officers, and S. M. Alartin, S. D. ; L. B. Martin, J. D. ; C.
M. Martin, Sec, and J. B. Craigg, Treas. The organization has
been a good, live working one, continually on tlie increase, and now
has a membership of about 60. Mr. Joseph Neglev has served a
greater length of time as W. M. than any of his predecessors. As
a working lodge it has always ])roved a success. In acts of charity
its reputation stands high and bright.
EviUKU'licul Lnthcnui Church, situated at Coal creek, was organ-
ized by Rev. Swartz about the year 1850. The congregation met in
a school-house at first, and indeed until 1866, when their present
church structure was erected. It is 30x40 feet in size, and cost
S2,()()0, of which the Swygert family gave ^600. Samuel Gourley
donated the ground upon which the building stands, and also the
ground for the cemetery. The pastor devotes only a portion of his
time to this congregation, and receives §200 a year. The present
membership is 30.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
Henry Alcotf, farmer; P. O., Fairview ; was born in Ross Co., O.,
Aug. 1, 1811, and is the son of Israel and Ann Alcott. He enjoyed
only the advantages of the common schools in a new country at
which to gain an education. He came to Fulton Co. in 1836, and
has been eminently successful in life. At present he owns 1,435
acres of land in this county and 160 acres in Iowa. He also has
1,000 head of sheep. In 1835 lu; was married to Martha Foster,
who has borne him two children.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 631
S. B. Bennett, M. D., Coroner of Fultou Co., was born in
Lawrence Co., 111., Nov. 24, 1838. His father, the Rev. Isaac Ben-
nett, died at Canton in 18o<). Dr. B. began the practice of medi-
cine at the earlv age of 21 in Canton. He received his medical
education at Rush Medical College, Chicago. In 1861 he moved
to Fairview, where he now resides, and where he has gained an envi-
able reputation as a practitioner. He was elected Coroner in 1878,
and during the present year has been elected Director of the Mutual
Life Insurance Co., of Canton. The Doctor was united in marriage
with Angeline Taylor, Sept. 1, 1863. She was the daughter of the
late Robert Taylor, who resided south of Canton. He had resided
in Fulton Co. for tifty years at the time of his death. This union
has been blessed with 2 children, — Zachary T., born June 3, 1865,
and Mary C, born May 27, 186(j.
Joseph Cook was born in Grand Duchy of Baden, Germany, Oct.
23, 1823. He is the son of Joseph and Rosiana. Mr. C came to
America in 1836, and remained at New York until the following
year when he went to New Jersey, and May 10, 1852, landed in
Fulton Co. At the early age of 15 he began to learn the trade of
cabinet-making, which he has followed ever since, and in which he
has been successful. He has been President of the Board of Trus-
tees and a member of it almost all of the time for 20 years. He
has been married twice, — the first time to Mary Robison, June 2,
1846; the second time to Sarah Blene. They have 3 children, —
Milton, born in Nov., 1865, George W., born in 1869, and Lorena,
born Jan. 5, 1877. Mr. C. united with the M. E. Church in 1848.
James D. Curtis, M. J), was born in Warren Co., N. Y., March 14,
1832. His parents, Silas and Margaret (McDonald) Curtis, were both
natives of the Empire State. Mr. C. visited this county in 1848, but
did not locate here till 1861. After receiving a common-school
education he took the Latin and scientific courses at Kingsborough
College. He also attended medical college at New York. He is
also a graduate from the Eclectic Medical Institute of Cincinnati.
The Doctor is a member of the State Medical Society. He has prac-
ticed his profession since coming to the county. He has served
Fairview as Mayor. In 1862 he was married, and again in 1875,
May 24 ; this time to Elizabeth Greenwell. The Doctor made a
profession of religion when 20 years old and joined the M. E.
Church. In 1852 he united with the Baptist Church and was im-
mersed l)y Elder Corwin by cutting a iiole in the ice. He again
united with tlie M. E. Church in 1863. Changing locations caused
him to change Churches.
Edward Cox, sr., is among the first settlers of Fulton Co. He
erected the tiiird frame house in the town of Fairview, and he thinks
the third in the township. When he came to the county only one
family lived within the present corporation of Fairview. This
man's name was Henry B. Evans, and he owned the first grocery
store in the township. The building is still standing and used as a
632 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
bftrn. He built a large house which he used for hotel purposes
for 14 years. He was born in Somerset Co., N. J., Feb. 9, 1814.
His father, Jacob E. Cox, and his mother, Rebecca (I^ane) Cox, are
both living with him. He came to the Co. in May of 1837, and has
403 acres of good land at present. He did not get married until
well advanced in life. He was united in the bonds of wedlock
March 18, 1879, with Gertrude Cox. He became a member of the
Reformed Church in 1850.
William H. Dalle y, farmer, sec. S ; P. O., Fairview. On the 16th
of Aug., 1830, there was born to John Y. and Elizabeth (Hall)
Dailey, in Henderson Co., N. J., a son, the subject of this sketch.
He grew up, attending the common schools, and learned the car])en-
ter's trade, which he followed some years, but changed it for farm-
ing, and by his own exertions has succeeded. Miss Lettie Ellen
Dilts and he were united in marriage in September, 1853. Five
children have blessed their home, — 2 boys and 3 girls, — 4 of whom
are living, and one son and one daughter married.
Frederick Davis, butcher and farmer, was born in Fairview tp.
March 14, 1842. His parents, Richard and Sophia (Suydam)
Davis came to this county as early as 1831. In 1861 Mr. Davis
enlisted in Co. L, 7th Cav., under Capt. Scott, of Bushnell. He
never was off duty and participated in all the raids and scouts, and
his horse was as faithful and plucky as he. He was on the famous
Greerson raid, when a distance of 800 miles was traveled in 14 days.
In 1868 he married Mrs. L. Robison, who bore him 4 children, —
one boy and 3 girls, — all living. Ardelia, Lorena, Altaaud Martin
Seward are their names.
L. W. Davis, farmer, sec. 27 ; P. O., Fairview. This gentleman
was born in Fairview in 1839, and is the sou of Richard and Sophia
Davis. He attended the commmon schools here and Knox Acad-
emy, Galesburg. He was united in marriage with Miss Susan Bean,
A})ril 29, 1864. Mollie and Carrie are their living cJiildren. They
have one dead. Mr. D. has served in several local official positions.
James W. Downin, farmer, sec. 6 ; P. O., Farmington. ^Ir.
Downin is the son of Jacob S. and Mary Jane (Kreigh) Downin,
and was born in Wayne Co., Ind., Sept. 3, 1844. Three years later
he was brought into this county. In 1875, Feb. 11, he took unto
himself a wife in the person of Miss Hettie Catlett. Emry L.,
boru June 16, 1876, and Mary Jane, born April 10, 1878, are their
children.
John II. DiuDi, farmer, sec. 8; P. (),, Fairview; is the son of
John S. and Elizabeth Dunn, and was born in Fairview township
April 27, 1840. He received a liberal education, and at the age of
23 embarked in life's work as an agriculturist, which he likes, and
at which he has been successful. He is J. P. at present and has
held several local offices. He was married near Nebraska City
Aug. 15, 1866. Ada and Matthew are liis children.
J. W. Dunn, farmer, sec. 7 ; P. O,, Midway. Mr. Dunn was
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 633
born in Indiana Sept. 21, 1834, and is the son of John S. and Eliza-
beth (Norvel) Dunn, pioneers of this county. He had only the ad-
vantages the common schools of a new country offered for an educa-
tion. He has served as School Director for a dozen years. June
3, 1875, he was married to Susan Pratt. Politically he is a Demo-
crat.
Cornelius Dykeman was born April 4, 1836, the son of Gilson and
Parmelia (Tuttle) Dykeman ; educated in New York State ; brought
up a farmer ; came to Fairview tj). in an early day ; now lives on sec.
1. He has improved as much as 300 acres of wild land. He mar-
ried Lydia Douglas, by whom he has two children living. She is
a Spiritualist. Mr. D. in politics is a Republican.
>S((muel Gourlei/. In Montgomery, Pa., there was born to Joseph
and Elizabeth (Homer) Gourley, on June 2, 1818, a son, whom
they christened Samuel. He came to this county in 1856 and en-
gaged in farming. He resides now upon sec. 19. In 1843 he was
married to Ann Trov, who bore him 8 children, — 5 boys and 3
girls, — only 3 of whom are living, — B. L., Joseph and Abram L.
His P. O. address is Fairview.
Peter H. Groenench/ke is the only child of Samuel and Gertie Anna
(Hageman) Groenendyke, both of whom are natives of Somerset
Co., X. J. The former was born April 17, 1825, his mother INIarch
19, 1820. Peter was born Jan. 30, 1851. Peter's grandfather and
grandmother, Daniel and Adria Groenendyke, were also natives of
New Jersey. The former died in 1872, while the latter still sur-
vives. The wife of our subject, Mary K. Wolfe, was born July 9,
1851. She is the daughter of John L. and Susan (Kenle\) Wolfe.
The father was born in Virginia Feb. 27, 1812; her mother was a
native of Maryland. Mr. and INIrs. G. have one child, Samuel
Wilber. Peter came to this county with liis j)arents in 1835, and
resides on sec 5, and they live with iiini. P. O., Fairview.
WiUUuii Grocuendiikc, farmer, sec. 20; P. 0., Fairview; was born
in Hunterdon county, N. J., May 24, 1810. His father, Samuel
Groenendyke, served in the Revolutionary war as Major. His
mother's maiden name was jNIarv Devore. Mr. G. came to this
county in 1849. In 1862 he enlisted in Capt. Wyckoff's company
of the 103d 111. Inf. In 18.'U, Oct. 5, he was united in marriage
with Rebecca Voorhees, who bore him 7 children, — one boy and 6
girls, — 4 of whom are living, and all married. Mr. (i.
has been a member of the M. E. Giiurch for a iialf century, and
since 1849 has been Ti-ustee and Chiss-Lcader. P. O., Fairview.
H. H. Hartouffh was born in Somerset Co., N. J., May 17, 1817.
He came to Fairview and bought property in July, 1838; returned
to N. J., was married Feb. 24, 1840, and arrived here again May 1
of that year. He was married to Catharine Vanderveer. Their
family consists of the folh)wing members: Marv, born Nov. 9,
1844; John, March 4, 1847; Martin, Sept. 11, 1849; Caroline V.,
Oct. 13, 1855; William A., June 11, 1858. Three of the children
634 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
are married. One of the daughters is the wife of Dr. Hughes, re-
siding near Chicago. Mr H. learned the plastering and briok-lay-
ing trade and followed it for 13 years, when he bought the firm
where he now lives, sec. 33. Mr. H. has been a life-long Republi-
can, and is a strong temperance advocate, and a member of the Re-
formed Church. He is liberal and has accumulated a good fortune by
his industry. His portrait we give in this book. P. O., Fairview.
James Heddcn, farmer, sec. 30 ; P. O., Fairview ; was born in
Morris Co., X. J., Aug. 31, 1805, and is the son of Joseph and
Sarah Hedden. He came to this county in 1852 or '53. He fol-
lowed brickmaking for about 40 years in his native State, but since
here has engaged in farming. He has served in several l<»cal offices.
He married Georgia Godly, He is the parent of 17 children, 8 of
whom are living and all married. He united with the Reformed
Church in 1852.
Hugh F. Hillpoff, merchant, was born in Bucks Co., Pa., Sept. 12,
1833. He is the son of Jacob G. and Julia Hillpott. His mother's
maiden name was Julia Frankfield. He came to this county Xov.
28, 1855, and settled in Fairview. He has only a limited educa-
tion, having never attended school more than 8 months in his life.
His superior native genius and business ability has, nevertheless,
abundantly crowned his efforts. He worked as a farm hand until
he was 20 years of age, then learned the l)lacksmith's trade, which
he followed for 11 years. He then embarked in mercantile life, and
has since continued in it, being very successful, and accumulated a
fine fortune. June 28, 1868, he was married to Sarah Van Liew.
John V. L., born Aug. 25, 1869, and Lizzie C, born June 24, 1872,
are their children. During the days of the Rebellion Mr. H. enlist-
ed in Co. D, 103d 111. Inf. He participated in several battles and
was with Gen. Grant at the seige of Vicksburg, and was discharged
at Washington City, Sept. 25, 1864. He united with the Reformed
Church in 1865.
M. M. Johnson, son of Moses C. and Zerilda Johnson, was born
in Fairview tp., Aug. 5, 1839. He is engaged in farming upon
sec. 7. He has traveled over the Western States and Territories
considerably. In 187S he was the choice and nominee of the (Treen-
back party for Sheriff of this county, but, although running ahead
of his ticket, he was defeated. He has held manv local official
positions. Dec. 24, 1868, he was married to Eliza J. Downan.
Their home has been blessed with 6 children, — 3 boys and 3 girls,
— all of whom are living. P. O., Fairview.
Allen Keefauver, barber, Fairview, is the son of John and Eliz-
abeth (Young) Keefauver, and was born in Washington. Co., Ind.,
March 23, 1853. He was brought to Joshua tp. in 1855. He was
engaged on the farm till 19 years old, when he began to learn his
trade. He is an artist of great skill in his business, and a young
man full of energy and enterprise. He is the leader of the Fair-
view String Band. He was married Feb. 16, 1875, to Mary Suy-
dam. Jessie, born Xov. 16, 1875, is their only child.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 635
James K. Kehey. One of tlie self-made men of the county is the
venerable Mr. Kelsey, who was born in Fairfield Co., O., March 7,
1807. His father, Enos Kelsey, was from New York ; his mother,
Nancy Kelsey, nee Young-, was a native of the Keystone State.
Mr. K. followed shoemaking till he was 22 years old, when he began
school-teaching, but soon turned to tilling the soil. He resides now
on sec. 13, and owns 250 acres, besides town property, which he has
gained by his own personal exertions. April 9, 1829, he was
united in marriage with Lydia Harsock, who bore him 11 children, —
4 Ijovs and 7 girls, — 8 of whom are living. In 1854 ISIr. K.
united with the Presbyterian Church. P. O. address, Farmington.
John L. Kitchen, farmer and coal miner, sec. 8; P. O., Fairview ;
was born in Henderson Co., N. J., Aug. 9, 1843. His parents were
AVilliam and Charity Kitchen. He came to this county in 1851.
He is at present School Director and has been for some years. On
the 13th of Aug., 1876, he took unto himself a wife in the person
of Mary Hall. Frederick, who was born July 29, 1878, is their
only child. Politically, "Sir. K. is a Democrat, though liberal in his
views.
Isaac Lamb was born in Floyd Co., Ind., March 20, 1818. His
parents, Benjamin and Nancy Lamb, were natives of North Caro-
lina. He came to this county in 1841 and settled near where he
now lives, and has never made but one move. His present resi-
dence is on sec. 31. Mr. L. has quite an extensive coal bank and
for some of his coal land he has paid ^125 per acre. He began his
coal business 30 years ago. He coidd then supply the demand with-
out help, but for the last 20 years he has mined about 25,000
bushels per year,, and some of the time has been unable to fill
orders. He was married Feb. 20, 1836, and has 11 children, — 7
boys and 4 girls. He is a member of the Christian Church. P.
O., Fairview.
L. J. Lamh is a native of Fulton Co., having been born in Fair-
view township Nov. 7, 1842. His jwrents, Isaac and Jane (Hall)
Lamb, were early settlers of the county. L. J. attended the com-
mon country schools, and those of Fairview and Prairie City,
where he gained a good education. He is engaged at farming on
sec. 19. March 25, 18()4, he was married, and has 4 sons and one
daughter. He has been a member of the Lutheran Church for 14
years. His wife is a member of the same Church. P. q., Fair-
view.
./. 7?. Lance was l)orn in Penn. in 1812 and is the son of William
and Margaret (Hart) Lance. His father was a native of N. Y., and
his mother of Penn. and both of German descent, and both lived to
a ripe old age and died in this State. His father Avas 103 vears of
age when he died. J. R. came to this county in 1837 and located on
sec. 1, Fairview tp., and has lived upon this section since, and at
present owner of 330 acres of land. He has been twice married and
is the father of 9 children, all of whom are by his former wife. She
636 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
> .
died and he was married in 1878 to a widow lady, whose maiden
name was Euphemia Merrill, a dau<>ht("r of one of the early settlers
of the tp. fShe owns 200 aeres, making 530 acres in all that they
own. r. ()., Farming-ton.
W. S. Luman, farmer, see. 7; P. O., Fairview ; was born in
Franklin Co., O., Jan. 1, 1834, and is the son of Jesse and Mary
(Shreeves) Luman. AY. S. was brought to the county when at
the very early age of three years. He has been successful in his
labors and owns 200 acres of land. In April, 1858, he was married
to Mary Cook. This union has been blessed with 7 children,-— 6
boys and one girl, — all of whom are living. Politically he is a
Democrat.
,/. F. McClaiii, teacher, was born in Frederick Co., Md., Dec. 15,
1838, and is the son of John and Susan (Harbaugh) McClain. The
former was born Dec. 2, 1799, and his mother, Aug. 2, 1806. Mr.
McClain attended the common schools of 111. and finished his edu-
cation at the Normal School at Emporia, Kans. He began his long
and successful career as a teacher when only 17 years old. He has
taught the Fairview school for 13 years, and has taught 25 terms in
the same building, which speaks in his praise stronger than we can
find words to express. He has been Assessor of the tp. and a mem-
of the B(iard of Fairview, and served for several terms as Town
Clerk. This year he was elected Supervisor. He has studied medi-
cine and practiced some, but has not been admitted yet; he ex-
pects to be, however, soon. March 28, 1866, he was united in marriage
with Miss Marv Vannortwick, who has borne him three children —
John F., born' Jan. 31, 1871, Susan C, June 22, 1873, and Lulu
May, Aug. 23, 1876. He is a member of the Ileformed Church.
Benjamin S. Miller. There was born to James and Sarah Eliza-
beth (Bovd) Miller, while they were living in Mercer Co.,X. J., and
on the 4th of ^Larch, 1833, a son, Benjamin S., the subject of this
sketch. He worked at farming till 17 years old when he began
blacksmithing. He came to this county Oct. 10, 1851, and since
has engaged in farming most of the time. He resides now u|)on sec.
5. He has been twice married. His first wife, Drusilla Dunn, he
married Feb. 1, 1 855. Siie bore him 5 children,— 3 boys and 2 girls,
— James, Sarah Elizabeth, Hardin, Joim and Cordelia. His first
wife was a member of the M. E. Church for 31 years. She died of
consumption in 1877, Sei)t. 3. He married again, this time to
Rachel Ann Luman. P. ()., Middle Grove.
John Miner was born born July 20, 1844, in the old State of
New Jersey. His father, AVilliam" ^Finer, was of Scotch-Irish de-
scent and his mother, Deborah ^VFiner, was of English descent. Both
were natives of New Jersey. They reared a family of 1(» children.
The father has passed from earth'. He died May 2, 1876. Mrs.
M. is still living. John has charge of the farm and has been suc-
cessful in its management. He enjoys the C(tmpanionship of his
books, indeed is of a literary turn of mind. P. ()., Fairview.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 637
Almiron G. Morse was born in this county in 1849. His parents,
T. M. and Elvira (Blakeslee) Morse, were natives of Ohio. A. G.
attended tlie common schools and then learned the carpenter's trade,
which he has followed for ten years. He is now engaged in the tile
business. Sept. 24, 1875, he was united in marriage with Edith
Shinn. His P. O. address is Farmington ; his residence on sec. 2.
T. M. IIorNc, farmer, sec. 2 ; P. O., Farmington ; was born in
Burlington, Otsego Co., N. Y., Feb. 10, 1 820. His father, Jedediah,
was a native of the same place and died Aug. 8, 1852; his mother,
Huldah Bolton, was a native of Woodstock, Ct. Mr. M. landed
here Sept. 28, 1839, and has resided on his present farm most of
the time since. He had a liberal education, and was the first Super-
visor elected from the township. He has held other local official
positions, and was J. P. for 20 years in succession. Mr. Morse has
been elected to the Legislature three different times, and served
with credit and honor. He has taught school much, and remem-
bers teaching subscription school for $15 per month, took wheat in
pay, hauled it to Farmington and sold it for 25c per bushel. Oct.
1, 184(3, he was united in marriage with Elvira Blakeslee, who was
born Jan. 31, 1830. Almiron G., Menzo, Timothy, Emerson, Burt,
Elvira and Hattie are the names of their children.
James M. Morton. Upon the section where he now lives, sec. 24,
on July 2, 1838, James M. Morton was born. His father, Elijah
Morton, Avas born in New Jersey ; his mother, Mary (Alexander)
Morton, was a native of Bucks Co., Pa. In 18(33 Mr. M. enlisted
in Co. B, 11th 111. Cav., under Col. Kerr. He served till Se])t. 30,
1865, when he was discharged at Memj)his. In 1870, Sept. 1, he
was joined in the holy bonds of matrimony with Clara Jacobus.
Henry E., born June 24, 1872, Edith A., Feb. 18, 1874, and Alvah
and Alpheus, born June 8, 1878, are their children. P. O., Fair-
view.
./. B. Nec/ley is one of the enterprising farmers of Fulton Co.
He located here in 1844, and has resided upon the same farm since
the s])ring of 1845. His, native State is Pennsylvania, where, in
Franklin Co., June 15, 1813, he was born. His education was very
limited when he started in life for himself, but he has been a close
student all of his life, and at present is a frequent contributor to the
county papers. There was not a stick of wood upon his farm when
he came to it. He now owns 350 acres of fine land, well improved
and stocked. He has visited France to jiurchase horses that his
own and neighbors' stock might be improved. In 1874 he was tiic
nominee of his party for Representative, but was beaten by a few
votes, his j)arty being in the minority. He is the son of Jacob and
Marv Neglev. He was married in 183(5, June 14, to Catharine
Wolf, who bore him 9 children, 7 of whom are living. They had
a son killed at the battle of Shiloh. He was a member of Co. C,
19th 111. Inf. P. O. Xorris.
James H. Pahnerion, a prominent agriculturist, resides upon sec.
638 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
23, and owns one-half section of land. He is the son of Ichal)od
and Jane (Childers) Palnicrton, and was born in this county in
1844, Ho has made three trips across the j)lains, driving' Govern-
ment team. While in the wilds of the West he saw 19 Indians
hung with grape vines for stampeding cattle. In 1867, Oct. 15, he
was united in marriage with Nlary Jane Dedden. Sarah E., Alice
M., Bessie A., Emma, Mary E. and Zillie are their children. P.
O., Fairview.
David F((rk-s, miller, is the son of Elijah and Sarah (Conover)
Parks, and was born Sept. 10, 1805. He received only a common-
school education, but his rare native ability has enabled him to be-
come successful in life. He came to the county in 1849. He has
started 3 mills since he came to this State. He has a stone quarry
on his farm, section "20, which yields a good quality of stone. He
was married in Feb., 1830, and is the parent of 5 children, — 4 boys
and 1 girl, — all of whom are living. David A. and Elijah served
in Co. C, 17th 111. Cavalry, and Joseph W. was in the 55th 111. Inf.
P. O. address, Fairview.
James X Parks, son of David and Sarah (Johnson) Parks, was born
in Hunterdon Co., N. J., Jan. 16, 1832. He attended the common
schools and received a fair education. He came to this county in
1849, and is engaged in farming upon section 19, having met with
moderate success. The 27th day of March, 1857, was a day full of
interest for him and his wife, Sarah Parks, nee Cammann, for upon
that day they were united in marriage. Walter, Belle, Margaret,
Irene, Howard and Fred are their children. Mr. P. united with
the Lutheran Church in 1871.
Daniel G. Polhemus, retired farmer, one of the pioneers of Fulton
Co., came in 1837 and bought property and two years later located
here with his family. He is the son of Garrett and Jane (Haga-
man) Polhemus, and was born in Somerset Co., X. J., Nov. 21,
1795. He received his education in the common schools. As a
farmer he has l)ecn eminently successful and at present owns, after
giving to his son 132 acres, 385 acres of land. His farm is well
stocked and lias uiK)n it 200 head of hogs. He was united in mar-
riage with Maria Voorhees Jan. 21, 1821. She died the mother of
10 children, — 4 boys and 6 girls, — 5 of whom only are living. They
had a son who served in the lO.Ul 111. Inf for 3 years. Mr P. has
been a member of the Reformed Church for half a century.
G. r. I'ol/uinits w-d:^ born in Montgomery township, Somerset Co.,
N. J., Oct. 28, 1821. His flither, Daniel", and his mother, Maria
(Voorhees) Polhemus, were early settlers of this county, G. Y. com-
ing with them in 1839. He has engaged in farming since large
enough to work and has been (piite successful. He resides upon
sec. 28 and owns 258 acres of tine land. He has served his town-
ship on the Board of Supervisors for 3 years and as a School Direc-
tor for 15 years. Dee. 7, 1848, he was united in marriage with
Miss Jane Y. Brokaw. The union has been blessed with 8 children.
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 639
— 5 boys and 3 girl.s, — G of whom are living. ]Mr. P. lived in this
countv before Illinois had a railroad, and has hauled wheat in a
wau-on to C'hieao-o and sold it for 50 eents a bushel.
Ahratn M. Powvhnn. — Among the many respeeted residents of
this portion of Fulton eounty, who eame from the little State border-
ing upon the Atlantie, is Mr. Powelson, who was born in Somerset
county, X. J., May "20, 183.S. He is the son of Peter and Juliet
(Gray) Powelson, who eame to this township in IS-IO, landing July
4. His lather died the following December and Abram though
young began the pleasant and dutiful task of supporting his mother.
This pleasure was not granted him long, for by a fiital accident she
lost her life bv beiny; l)urned to death. When 13 vears (dd he hired
out to work upon a farm by the month, which he continued till he
was 27, Since, he has been successful in farming and at present has
a goodly share of this w^orld's goods. He was married Sept. 3, 18G1,
to Julia Polhemus. They have two boys living and one dead. Mr.
P. is a member of the Reformed Church.
Lnihcr Vuinijed, farmer, sec. 34 ; P. O., Fairview ; was born in
Somerset Co., N. J., June 17, 1828. His parents, Peter and Catha-
rine Sarah (Stucker) Pumyea, were both natives of the same county.
Mr. P. landed in Fulton Co. when a lad of 8 summers. He en-
gaged in mercantile business for 3 years in Fairview, but abandoned
it for the farm. He has visited the golden shore of the Pacific
and traveled elsewhere. He drove a team from New Jersey to Illi-
nois. He has been twice married. First to Eleanor Jones, wdio
bore him 2 children, both girls, and living. His second wife was
Elizabeth Morse, who has borne him one child.
Peter S/deich, farmer, is the son of Jacob and Mary (Webber)
Shleich, and was born in Wurtemburg, Germany, April 29, 1841.
He canu^ to America in 1850 and 5 years later came to this county.
He attended the common schools, and at the age of 24 entered Hed-
ding College, Abingdon, 111. He has taught school for several
years but is now engaged in farming, owning a 400-acre farm, well
stocked. When he arrived here he could not speak English, and
his father died soon after, and Peter was jnit out to work. He
served during the war in Co. A, 55th 111. Inf., and was discharged
Oct. 31, 1864. He participated in the battles of Pittsburg Land-
ing, Shiloh and others. He married ]Marv E. Wilson Sept. 28,
1870. Mary Belle, Chas. W., John H., and Ada Maria are their
children. He has been a member of the Reformed Church since
1867. P. O., Fairview.
Jonathan Smith was born in Madison Co., O., Sept. 11, 1808.
In 1833 he visited Fulton Co., and two years later he came and
raised a crop, and in 1S37 located on sec. 35, where he yet resides.
He began life friendless and in poverty, having lost his parents and
possessing only a three-year-old colt. At present he has 380
acres of land in this county, and 480 acres in Iowa. He began as
a farm hand at first, at which he worked for 7 years, receiving from
640 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
$7.50 to $10 a raontli. In 1837 he was married to Ann Foster,
who has borne him 9 children, 8 of whom are living;, — 2 boys and
() j^irls. One son and 4 daughters are married. One daiifrhter
married John Broadfield, of Knox Co., and were traveling through
Europe last year. John H., a son, married Mary Wyckoff the
present year and resides in Marshall Co., Iowa. Mr. S.'s P. O.
address is Fairview.
./(lines Xewton Suyddin, postmaster. On the 17th of April, 183G,
in the State of New Jersey, there was born to John W. and Eliza-
beth S. Siiydam a son, the subject of this sketch. Thirteen years
later he was brought to this county. He attended the common
sehools of his home and then entered the commercial college at
Davenport, Iowa. For 17 years he Avas engaged in farming; 5
years w^s employed as clerk in a store ; taught school for 2 years ;
embarked in the drug business at Fairview in 1861, and in 1864
was appointed P. M., and has held the office ever since except two
years, when Andrew Johnson " swung him out." He is a live, enter-
prising citizen. He is leader of the brass band, Town Clerk, Vil-
lage Clerk, Recording Steward M. E. Church, Treasurer of Bible
Society and Secretary of the Temperance Society. In 1860 he was
united in marriage with Cordelia A. Morey, and in 1877, June 6,
he married his second wife, Murtie E. Spence. His home has been
blessed with 4 children, — 2 boys and 2 girls, — all living. Mr. S.
joined the Baptist ChunOi in 1858, and was immersed by Rev. But-
terfield. He united with the M. E. Church in 1862.
ir. G. Sirartz was born in Westmoreland Co., Pa., Oct. 2, 1825.
He first eame to this county in 1852. He taught school for one term
and returned to the Keystone State, but/ was dissatisfied, and in
1857 again sought the fertile soil of the Prairie State. His principal
occuj)ations have been teaching and farming. He learned the tan-
nery and currying trade and worked at it for three years. He first
settled in Young Hickory township on his arrival in Fulton Co.
He has been successful financially, and at present owns 253 acres
of fine land. He has filled t\\o township offices Irom time to time,
and for !■) years served as J. P. He married Elizab(>th Welty, who
has borne him 3 children, — 2 boys and 1 girl, — one of the former is
dead. He is a member of the M. E. Church.
/. T). Sirq/lc, fiirmer, sec. 5; P. O., Fairview; was born in New
.Jersey, Dec. 31, 1827. His ]iarents Avere Daniel and Elizab(>th
Swegle. He eame to this county as early as 183<S, His only advant-
ages to procure an education were at the common and subscription
schools. He is naturally an energetic, hard-working man, and has
injured himself by over work. About 20 years ago he suffered sun
stroke and has not been able to work much since. In 1854 he
was married and has 7 children, all living, — 6 boys and one girl.
He is a member of the ]\I. E. Church.
G. \V. Swygcrt, farmer, section 29 ; P. O., Fairview ; was born in
Franklin Co., Pa., June 2, 1820, and is the son of John and Susan
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 641
(Binder) Swygert. He c.uiie to this county 36 year>s ago. He for-
merly was engaged at his trade, that of house-carpenter and joiner,
but abandoned it to till the soil. He has served his school district in
the cai)acitv of School Director for a dozen years. Dnriiiir the winter
of 1<S44 he was niarrie<l to Miss Brokaw, who bore him (5 chihb'cn,
— 2 boys and 4 girls, — o of whom are living. Henry died at the
age of 17. He is a member of the Reformed Church, and has served
as a Deacon and Elder.
rder TenEijck is one of the early settlers of Fulton Co. and de-
serves more than a passing notice. By economy and industry he has
managed to accumulate a handsome fortune. He was born in Som-
erset, Co., N. J., Aug. '28, 1808, and is the son of James and
Esther (Hankerson) Ten Eyck. Mr. T. was united in marriage
Nov. 2, 1843, with Rebecca Cox. They have two children, son and
daughter. The former is engaged in the practice of law in Michi-
gan. Mr. Ten Eyck takes great pride in his horses, of which he has
a large number of very fine ones. He keeps the fleet-footed Clydes-
dale trotting horses, only for his own driving, however. He has 100
head of fine cattle, mostly thoroughbred. He is a man of great en-
ergy and application to his business. He came to this county in
1835 and settled upon sec. 33 in 1836. He engsiged in the mer-
cantile business for 7 years during the infancy of Fairvicw, and we
give his portrait in this book.
Thomas H. Travers was born in P>urton, England, Feb. 10, 1839.
He is the son of Charles and Jane Travers. He came to America
with his father in 1860, and five years later located in Fulton
county and began a most successful career. His father returned to
England last year. He began work under most adverse circum-
stances, being chained down by poverty, but by indomitable pluck
and energy and business judgment they have succeeded until now
they own 835 acres of land, 770 of it lying in this county. The
father and son have always worked together as partners. Thomas
has been to California where he has worked in the gold mines. He
has a coal bank on his farm here out of which he annually takes 32,-
000 bushels of coal. He is rather cxtcnsiv(4y engaged in the manu-
facture of eider, making from 30,000 to 50,000 gallons each season.
January 20, 1870, Mr. T. was married to Sarah Augustina Turner.
Amy Jane, born Jan. 18, 1872, and Agnes, born Feb. 1, 1876, are
their children. P. O., Fairvicw.
Lewis M. Turner, farmer, sec. 21 ; P. ()., Fairvicw; is the son of
Elisha W. Turner, and was born in Lafavette Co., Wis. 'He came
to this county in 1865, and has been moderately successful in his
occupation. He enjoyed only the benefits of a common-school edu-
cation. In 1878 he was united in marriage with Mary Hauscr.
Abrahcuii Van iJoren, farmer, sec. 3; P.O., Farmington ; is a
native of Somerset county, N. J., where he was born Nov. 9, 1838.
He is the son of John K. and Maria (Cox) Van Doren. He at-
tended the common schools of this county and gleaned therefrom
642 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
his education. He has served in several htcal offices. March 4,
1862, is a day to him ever to be remembered, for upon that date he
was united in marriage with Sarah Elizabeth Hall.
John Van Licir, farmer, was born in Somerset county, X. J., Jan.
11, 1828. He is the son of Cornelius and Ann (Suydam) Van
Liew. He had only the advantages of the common schools of his
native State for an education. He began to work for himself at
farming at the age of 22, and has continued at it since and has been
successful. He came to this county in 1854 and has held some of
the local offices. He was married in 1856, Jan. 17, to Miss Mary
Polhemus, who has borne him 8 children, — 2 boys and 1 girl,
Daniel, (\)rnelius and Maria. Mr. V. is a member of the Reform-
ed Church.
Abram Voorhees was born March 25, 1834, in Xew Jersey. He
is the son of Jacob and Jane Voorhees and came to this county
Aug. 16, 1848. He received his education in the common schools
in Indiana. He engaged in farming until thirteen years ago when
he eml)arked in the grocery and drug business. He has been suc-
cessful in life. He was married Dec. 22, 1853. They have 5 chil-
dren,— four boys and one girl. He has held several of the town-
ship official positions.
John Voorhees^ Jr., was born in Xew Jersey July 25, 1836. He
is the son of Jacob and Jane Voorhees, who came to this county
Aug. 16, 1848. He received a common-school education principally
in this county, and is engaged in farming. He has carried on mer-
cantile business for several years himself and dealt in real estate not
a little. He is at })resent engaged as clerk in a dry-goods and gro-
cery store. He has served as School Trustee for 6 years ; a Dea-
con in the Reformed Church and also Superintendent of the Sun-
day-s('h(>(»l. He was married Dec. 23, 1858, to X\aomi Schanck.
To them have been born 3 girls, the youngest, little Mabel, was born
Nov. 4, 1876.
A. I). nVAvo/i, farmer, P. O., Fairview ; was born in the State of
Xew Jersey March 11, 1831, and is a son of Rev. A, D. and Jidia
Wilson. He was brought to the county in 1838, and at the com-
mon schools of Fairview received his education. At the age of 23
he entered the agricultural i)ursuit for himself, and has succeeded in
it. He is School Director and has served as such for 0 years Feb.
9, 1X54, he took uut(» himself a wife in the person of ^larv X'^egly.
Katie, John, Lulu, Maggie, Harry M., Xeeley and Mamie are their
children.'
//. M. B. Wilson, farmer, was born at Xorth Branch, X. J.,
April 21, 1837. Although Mr. W. has chosen farming as his occu-
pation, his father educated him for the ministry. He attended the
college at Xew Hrunswiek, and also Knox College, Galesburg. Mr.
W. is by no means an old man, yet deserves to be classed among
the ])ioneers of this county. His father was the well-known Rev.
A. D. Wilson, who organized the congregation of the Dutch Re-
i'^^X^M
THE SECOND COURT-HOUSE
AS IT STANDS TO-DAY
.-ji^^'ii-i}^^^- ■/,
„._. ^ „,., .. •tJrTjtet^i
^:S!.^^'■■^■,r.^l■r■^^
LI
OF THE
.NiVEHblTY OF ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FUI/rON COUNTY. G45
formed Church west of the Alleghany Mountaiiiis. The Rev. Mr.
W. came to this county in 1837, so our subject has spent almost his
entire life here. He was married in Feb., 1 <S7() and has o children, —
Oscar L., Bertha and Loda. He has represented his township in
the Board of Suj)ervis()rs.
John E. Wilson was born in the State of New Jersey Dec. 22,
1833. He is the son of the zealous and widely-known Rev. A. D.
Wilson. His mother's name was Julia Wilson. No man did more
to establish the Reformed Church in the West than Rev. A. I). Wil-
son, and his memory is held in ])leasant and sacred remembrance by
thousands. John E. came to the county in 1838 and has resided
here since. Mr. W. is engaged in farming upon sec. 32. For 3
rears he followed the mercantile business. In financial matters he
has been moderately successful. He first married Maria Rodener,
and Feb. 14, 1860, was married to Nettie Hamrick. Abraham,
George, Daniel and Julia are their children.
Jolin Wilson, farmer; P. ()., Fairview; was born in Hunterdon
Co., N. J., Oct. 25, 180(5, and is the son of Achilles and Ann Wil-
son. His fither died wUen he was o years old and when 10 he was
bound out. When 15 he commenced to learn the blacksmith trade.
He has succeeded in life and now owns 245 acres of land, which he
has made by his own labor and exertion. His wife's given name is
Tvucretia. Sarah Elizabeth, wife of Peter Goom, is their only child.
Mr. W. has filled several of the local offices. Politically he is a
Democrat.
./. L. Wolford, farmer, sec. 0 ; P, ()., Midway ; was born in Wash-
ington Co., Ind., June 5, 1851. He is the son of Daniel and Mary
Elizabeth (Masters) Wolford, and was brought to this county at the
earlv a";e of 3 years. Feb. 22, 1877, is a memorable dav in his
life, for upon that date he was united in marriage with Miss P]llen
Wyckoff'. Ida Ethel was l)oru to them Dec. 27, 1878.
Cornelius Wi/cl:oJf', Jr., dealer in hardware, farming im})lements,
etc., was born Aug. 11, 1823, in Hunterdon Co., N. J., and came to
Fulton Co, ^Nlarch 18, 185G. He learned the carriage-making trade
in New York, but has spent the greater portion of his life farming.
He was married Dec. 10, 1847, to Sarah V. Hagaman. They have
a family of 5 children, — 4 girls and one boy, — all of whom are liv-
ing. He joined the I*rcsbyterian Church in 1846, and ten years
later united with the Reformed Church at Fairview, of which he
has been Elder, and a member of the 'J'own Board several times,
and School Trustee in Joshua tp. for 11 years.
John P. Wifckoff, farmer, sec. 32 ; P. O., Fairview ; was born in
Somerset county, N. J., Sept. 7, 1842, and is the son of Simon and
Mary WyckoiF. He came to Fulton county in 1864. He enlisted
to defend our dear and sacred old flag in the 30th New Jersey In-
fantry, Co. K, and served until 1863. He was Corporal and Color-
bearer. He was united in marriage with Miss Addie Elkins Feb.
39
646 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
6, 1866. Jennie, Bayard, Addie and Louis are their children. Mr.
W. is a member of the Ref<irnH'd Chiircli, witli wliich he united in
1872.
Simon Wyckof was burn in the State of New Jersey Sept. 10,
1806. He was the son of Simon and Sophia (Van Dorn) Wyekoff,
and came to this county May 15, 1H65. His education was limited
to the common schools of Soinerset county, X, J. He has enjjatrcd
in farmintr ahnost all of his life ; but lias retired and lives at hisi)leas-
aut residence in Fairview, yet still owns a farm. He is one of those
quiet good men whom every one respects and loves to honor. He
was married Oct. 1, 1820, and has 8 children livinp;, — o boys and 3
girls. He united with the Reformed T'liurcii in 1827. Politically
he is a Republican, but always desirous to vote for the best man.
S. T. Wi/ckof, son of S. S. and Sarah Ann (Perbasco) Wyekoff,
was born in Hunterdon Co., N. J., Dec. 23, 1830. Eight years
later he w^as brought to this county, where he has continued to
reside since. He has generally engaged in agricultural pursuits, and
at present owns a farm. He has, however, engaged for a period of
3 years in mercantile business at Fairview, wdiere he now resides.
He has served as School Director, and a member of the Town Board
of Fairview for 6 years. He was married Sept. 15, 1859. He is a
member of the Reformed Church.
TOAVNSIilP OFFICIALS.
The following gentlemen have served the township in the various
official capacities named. The years of serving are given, and
where more than one date is op])ositc a name, covering a period of
years, it indicates that the official served during the intervening
years :
SLPKUVISOKS.
T. M. Morse ISoO T. M. Morse 18(>7-(50
W. T. Van.loventer lS.")l-o2 John V;in Liew IS70
D. M. Wyckod" isri.', H. M. 11 Wilson 1871
Frederick CrustM- ]S.)4-55 G. V. I'olhcnuis lS7l.'-74
B. S.Ramsev 1S56 James Davis 1875-79
J. 8. Downiii 18o7-()f)
TOWN CI.KltKS.
J. V. 1). P.. Vnn norn 1850 Theodore Pumvea 1865
Daniel (jroenendvkc 1851 J. S. Wvckofl' 18(56
J. V. D. B. Van Dorn 1852 S. F. Slider 1867
J. H. Peirsol 185P, J. S. Wvckoff 18(18-70
D. M. WvckofT 1854 J. N. Suvdain 1871
J. V. D. B. Van Dorn 1855-59 Simon Wvckoff 1872-73
J. S. Wvckoff 1860-62 Ira H. Voorhees 1874
Edward (ox 1863 J. F. McClain 1875-76
George Tavlor 1864 lf>a H, Voorhees 1877-79
HISTOKY OF FUI.TON COUNTY.
647
ASSESSORS.
Peter Puniyea 1850
Frederick Cruser 1851-53
Thomas Foster 1854
J.Y. D. B. Van Dorn 1855-56
E. E. Wi'st 1S57-G0
Archibald McCrea 1860
John Tipton 1861-64
David Shreves 1865-72
E. E. West 1873-74
J. S. Downin 1875
E. E. West 1876-79
COLLECTORS.
Edward Cox 1850
Isaac Shreves 1851
J. S. Pumyea .. 1852
Isaac Shreves 1853
John Tipton 1854-60
E. E. West 1861-62
Asher Pratt 1863-64
John Tipton 1865-66
S. V. Bobinson 1867-69
H. M. B. Wilson 1870
Abrara Voorhees 1871-72
J. H. Dunn 1873-74
Abram Eldert 1875
Joseph Wyckoff 1876
J. V. D. Davis 1877
John Armstrong 1878
S. D. Alpaugh 1879
FARMERS' TOWNSHIP.
This township is well timhcrcd niul watorod, and is underlaid
with strata of exeellent bitmninoiis eoal. The greater part of the
surfoee is very broken, although the western and southern portion
consists of gently undulating prairie, the soil of which is the regular
Illinois prairie soil.
The first settler to locate in Farmers' townshij) was John Barker,
who came in 1829. For further infbrniatiou concerning him, we re-
fer the reader to the personal sketches of John and Joseph Barker
given further on.
The township received its name in thiswise: The assessment
made ])revious to the organization of the township in 18")() showed
that the farmers in this comnuuiity had produced more grain than
any other precinct in the county. Accordingly, when the time came
for naming the township some on account of this fact pro])osed the
name of Wheatland. Others for the same reason suggested the name
of Farmers'. This was received with greater favor and the name
was ado[)ted. Another version as to the origin of the name is re-
lated by an old settler now residing in this townshij), as follows :
"This was a good forming country," he said, ''and almost every
])erson who lived here was farmers, and we called the votin' ]ire-
cinct Farmers' Precinct; and when the township was organized we
jist let it be the same." The first school in the township was taught
by Miss Fleanor Kutledge, who afterwards became Mrs. John Barker.
The first death to occur was that of Fnos Rutledge, who was buried
in the liarker ( 'emetcry. .loseph Barker has l)een living in the town-
ship) longer than ony one else has. The first Churcii organized
was of the Baptist denomination, and was organized June 9, 1835.
The society afterwards erected a log house, which was used for both
church and sciiool purposes for many years. This building is still
standing, owned by Thomas Walters, jr., and was used as a dwell-
ing by him until tlic fall oi' 1879. TJie first school-house (a small
log cabin) was erected in 1883. The benches were made of split
logs and the floor of puncheons. The fire-place occupied one side
of the house and the only window consisted of a log being removed
from one side.
The St. Louis division of the C, B. & Q. railroad crosses one
corner of the township, making its only (own, Table Grove, a lively
little business j)lace.
HISTORY OF FUT.TOX COUNTY. 649
A very exciting incident i?* related by Peter AValters, of an en-
counter his mother once had with a wihl hog. In those early days
the wild hogs were numerous and troublesome. While Mr. AValters
was absent from home one day a hog came to the vard fence, and
seeing the cow inside concluded to have some steak for dinner; ac-
cordingly he scaled the fence and assaulted the cow, and was in a
fair way to succeed when Mrs. A\'alters seized the gun, ran out and
shot the ferocious animal ; he ran oif with but little if any dam-
age, as she supposed, but was found dead near by soon afterward.
The above was not the only adventure that this heroine of Fulton
county had during its pioneer days. In the very first days after
the settlers came the Indians were not only numerous but very
troublesome, especially in regard to begging and stealing. On one
occasion, while on a begging tour, these pests stopped at the resi-
dence of Mr. Walters, as usual, to ask for some meat. Now, Mrs.
Walters was a very generous old soul, but at this particular time
her meat supply was nearly exhausted ; hence she refused to give
them any. Among the Indians was a very impudent squaw, who
insisted bevond all reason that Mrs. W. should y-ive them some
meat. The generous woman finally concluded to give her a small
piece, and went up stairs to procure the meat, when the squaw in-
stantly followed. jSIrs. Walters turned and told her to go back, but
she persisted, and was pressing her way up the narrow ladder, when
Mrs. Walters seized a loose board, which was lying on the u])i)er
floor, and dealt her such a blow that Mrs. Squaw came tumbling
down to the floor, receiving many bruises. The Indians aj)preciated
the good woman's kindness and admired her courage, which they
all demonstrated with one voice, crying out, "White s({uaw heap
big brave, — ha, ha, ha!" The squaw, greatly enraged, rose and
drew her scalping-knife, threatening to kill Mrs. Walters; where-
U])on Mr. AValters interfered, seized the knife, drew it across her
throat until the blood oozed out in places, and then taking her bv
the hair and an arm threw her headlong out of doors. Mrs. AA''al-
ters gave them the meat, when all left hajijiy and satisfied, except
the enraged s(juaw. The AValters fiimily was not molested again.
It will be interesting to all our readers to learn of the encounter
Mr. Enos Tarter once had with a deer. Nov. 17, ISol, while rid-
ing home from a day's threshing with his machine, he discovered a
very large deer crossing the road a short distance ahead. He
thought that an excellent opportunity for having some fun, and ac-
cordingly })ut spurs to his old horse that worked on the threshing
machine, and came up to the deer in the tall grass, and attempted
to strike him (lown with his knife, but it being blunt, he failed in that.
Then he took the deer by the tail, and at this ])art of the drama the
animal turned and horned the horse, which caused him to make a
sudden turn, and Air. Tarter was dragged ofl". Now, Mr. Tarter
and the nimble deer had a close encounter, both fighting hard for
their lives. They had it round and round, ]Mr. Tarter holding on to
650 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
his " tail hold," until they both found themselves head to heels in
a ditch, with Mr. Tarter on toj). Every time the deer tried to
rise up he pressed his enemy against the overhaniring; turf, render-
ing his eiforts fruitless. Finally, about 10:30 J*, m., he killed the
deer, and reached home at 11 o'clock, with a pair of pants and a
piece of a shirt on. He still carries a sore on his head from a
wound he received by the hoof of the animal in this conflict. The
horns of this deer are still on exhibition in the office of the County
Treasurer in Ijcwistown.
Mr. Tarter, on another occasion, caught a deer by the fore leg as
it was jumping over the fence.
Laurel Hill, more commonly known as Table Grove, is situated
on a beautiful eminence, overlooking as fine prairie country to the
north and west as human eye ever beheld. This is a thrifty little •
village of about 300 inhabitants, containing more enterprising busi-
ness men, doubtless, than any village of like dimensions in the
State of Illinois. It was founded in 1838 by James Spicer, Benja-
min Windham and Caleb Dilworth. James Spicer built the first
house, which ho sold to John Bartholomew in 1841. The first store
was kept by Wm. Lovell. Then came the era of schools and
churches. A school-house was erected in 1845, in which the well-
remembered Simon Breed taught the first school. This was during
the days when the rod and ferule were swayed by all pedagogues as
indispensable disciplinarians. As early as 1851 there was a Church
organization in the Grove, of which we speak below. The village
now contains 7 business houses, besides a good hotel, 2 meat
markets, 2 slioe shops, a saddle and harness shop, 2 milliner sho])s, a
wagon and ])aint-sho]), a blacksmith shop, a well-stocked lumber
yard and a flouring mill.
CHURCHES.
Table Grove Christian Church was founded and organized upon
the third Lord's Day of June, 1851, by Elder J. H. Hughes, now
deceased, with Wm. Mc Daniel, Elder; Asa Harland, G. F. Hen-
dricksou. Deacons. This society worshiped in the old school-house
in the Grove until the erection of the new school-house in 1845,
when the latter was used until the erection of the present structure
bv the societv. This congregation grew and ]n'ospored and l)e('ame
one of the largest and most influential in the county. The sad
hour of trouble, however, visited it, and during the last two or three
years it has suflered materially. For many years Elder Henry
Smither officiated as Pastor of this Church.
Table Grove Universdlixf Church was organized Feb. 22, 18(38,
with 51 members. The first officials were : Trustees — Thomas Berry,
J. R. Harris, J. H. Harris, Orian Moore, and Nelson Whedon ;
George Hughes, Treasurer; and G. W. Battin, Clerk. Rev.
John Hughes was first Pastor. The founding of this Church was
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 651
the result of a debate held here between Rev. J. Hughes and Elder
J. C. Reynolds, of Macomb. The congregation has a beautiful
church edifice located in Table Grove. The building and grounds
are valued at §7,000. The present membership is 107.
PERSONAL HISTORY.
The personal history of Farmers' township is both interesting and
instructive, and we will not fail to record it. It would give us
pleasure to speak even at greater length than we do, but the large
number and limited space forbids.
Sarah Abernathy ; P. O., Table Grove; was born in Sangamon
Co., 111., Dec. 25, 1830. Her father, Samuel Powell, was a native
of Ohio, and an early settler, — in fact one of the first settlers of
Sangamon county. Her mother, Elizabeth Powell, was also a
native of Ohio : both are now dead. Her educational advantages
were very limited. She was married to John Abernathy Dec. 18,
1858, in Fulton Co. They had 7 children, of whom 6 are living,
viz : James L., Mary E., Joseph A., Wm. H., Geo. C. and Samuel
M. Her Imsband, John Abernathy, was born in Ross Co., O., Nov.
15, 1824, and was the son of James Abernathy, a native of Va., and
came to Fulton Co. with his family when John was but 12 years old,
which was in 183(). They settled in Farmers' township, where John
resided, a i^romincnt farmer and stock-raiser until his death, which
occurred Jan. 11, 1869. He was an enterprising man, well res])ected
by his friends and neighbors. Mary E. Abernathy resides with her
mother and brother.
Dr. A. J. Bacon was born in McDonough Co., 111., Sept. 28,
1836; received a common-sc^hool education; reared on a farm until
he was 21 years old, when he began reading medicine; in the win-
ter of 1859-60 attended the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati,
O. ; in March, 1860, he began the practice of medicine, locating in
Ipava, where he remained one year, and then removed to Table
Grove, where he has since practiced with good success. He
graduated at the Rush Medical College in Chicago in 18(55. He
married, in 1857, Miss M. Durham, by whom he had one daughter,
Carrie, now the wife of John Le(»nard, of this [)Iace. Mrs. Bacon
died in 1860, and Mr. B. married again May 4, 1863, and they have
one child, Nellie, now 13 years of age. Mr. Bacon's father, Charles
Bacon, was one of the first settlers in McDonough county, and like
others, suff'r(Ml manv hirdshijis and jirivations in ]),iving the way
for the future prosperity of their i'aniily.
C/ias. E. Barker^ sec. 7, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Table Grove ; was
born April 4, 1842, in this township, the son of John Barker, the
first settler here. He was accustomed to the lot of jiioneer boys,
and hence his educational advantages were very limited. He owns
a half interest in 300 acres of land, and is a prosperous fiirmer and
stock-raiser of Farmers' township. He was married April 19,
1866, to Mary E. Pontious, daughter of Andrew Pontious, of
652 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Page Co., Iowa. They have 5 children living, — Leonard W., Ira
C, Willie L., Harry and Perry, besides one deceased.
Geo. B. Barker was born in Farmers' tp. Aug. 26, 1838; son of
Joseph Barker, mentioned a little furtiier on. Like other pioneer
boys, he was familiar with hunting deer, wolves and other wild
animals that were then so numerous in Illinois. His educational
advantages were limited. Mr. Barker was raised to hard work,
having cleared a great deal of land out of the l)rush. He is now a
farmer comfortably situated, owning a half interest in 300 acres of
valuable land. He was married Jan, 16, 1862, to Margaret C.
Frizzell, daughter of Johnsy Frizzell, of McDonough county.
They have had 9 children, of whom 7 are living, viz : Luella, Ezra
L., Lewis F., Emily C, Carrie, Lucy M. and an infant girl. Sec.
7, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Table Grove.
John W. Barker was born in Pike Co., O., April 15, 1819. His
father brought his family to Illinois when our subject was but 6
montlis old. While they lived at Fort Clark there were but 3 white
families there. For further particulars of their removals, etc., see
biography of his brother Joseph Barker, next mentioned. His
father, John Barker, came to this township in '27, leaving his fam-
ily on Totten's Prairie, except John and his mother whom he
brought along with him. John was quite small, but has vivid
recollections of sleeping in an old Indian wigwam, and of seeing
his father break prairie with an ox team. The old gentleman planted
several acres of sod corn, but reaped nothing from it, as the wild
hogs destroyed the entire crop. John W. was married, in 1841, to
Rachel Harris, by whom he had 2 children, — Warren and Harriet.
Mrs. Barker died Dec. 1, 1842. He again married in 1849, this
time to Eliza 8. Brand, by Avhom he had 8 children, — Mary J., La-
fayette, John S., A\'illiam M. (deceased) and Geo. M., twins, Frank-
lin (deceased), Wm. F. and Sarah E. Win. F. and Sarah E. are at
home with their father. Mrs. Barker died Feb. 18, 1877. Mr.
Barker owns 240 acres of valuable land, and is a successful farmer
and stock-raiser.
Joseph Barker, sec. 18, Farmers' tp. ; I*. ()., Table Grove. The
Barkers were the first settlers in Farmers' township. Their nearest
neighbors were the Tottens in Cass tp., a distance of 9 miles. He
was l)orn in Pike Co., ()., Oct. 30, 1816. His parents brought him
to Fort Clark, where Peoria now stands, in 1819; there they re-
sided until 1827, when they removed to Totten's Prairie in Cass
township, and in 1829, as before .stated, became the first pioneers of
Farmers' townshij). Mr. Barker is a hale old gentleman of 63
vears, making a full hand at the different emplovments on the farm.
He owns a well imjjroved farm of 129 acres of very fertile land.
He was married Feb. 21, 1844, to Priscilla McKinzey, and they
have had 10 children, of whom 5 are living, viz : Roanna (wife of
James E. I^rand, <jf Farmers' tp.), Elizabeth E. (wife of Isaac
Pickle, of Guthrie, la.), Josephine (wife <tf Benton McCance, of
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 653
Harris tp.), Daniel E. and Joseph M. Mr. B. has always been, and
is still a prosperous farmer.
Lafai/cftc Jiarkcr, P. C, Table Grove; res., sec. 17, Farmers' tp. ;
was born in Fulton Co. April 2;], 1851, son of John AV. Barker.
Mr. Barker received a common-school education in Fulton Co., after
which he attended the Business College of St. Joseph, Mo., and
graduated there Nov. 2, 1870. He was married, May 7, 1874, to
Frances Steel, daughter of Graft Steel, formerly of Bushnell. This
union has been blessed with three children, viz : Ora M., Melvin and
Bessie. Mr. B. is a prominent school-teacher of this township and
parts of McDonough Co. He is at present farming, yet his old
school patrons are constantly requesting him to resume teaching.
Samuel Bam/hmnn, sec. 18; P.O., Table (xrove ; was educated
in the common schools here. In August, 18G2, he enlisted in Co.
F, 103d I. V. I., and honorably discharged July 7, 1865. He par-
ticipated in twenty battles, among which were the following: Mis-
sion Ridge, Kcncsaw INlountain, siege of Atlanta and many others.
He was married Sept. 10, 18G8, to Mary J. Carlin, by whom he has
3 children, — Wm. Perry, Mary R. and Sarah E. They are very
intelligent children, especially Mary R., who has great literary
talent.
Alvin Bos.^ort ; P. O., Table Grove; was brought here by his
parents when but 3 years old, which was in 1850. He received a
common-school education, and is the sou of Daniel Bossort of Farm-
ers' township. Alvin was raised a farmer, and is now engaged in
farming and stock-raising, in which he has been eminently success-
ful. He was married, Aug. 22, 1872, to Martha A. Carlin, daugh-
ter of Mr. Thomas Carlin of Farmers' tp. They have four children,
viz : Mary E., Mattie R., Jennie M. and Katie M.
Wilford E. ^o;yer was born Sept. 20, 1845, in Fayette Co., Pa.,
and is the son of Frederick l)()yer, of Bureau Co., 111. INIr. Boyer
was married Aj)ril 5, 18GG, to Eliza J. Miner, daughter of John F.
Miner, of McDonough Co. He is a prominent farmer and stock-
raiser of Farmers' township, on section 16. He has filled the dif-
ferent township offices, and is the j)resent Supervisor. Mr. and
Mrs. Boyer have 7 children, — J^ucy, Parkie, Miner, Mary, Susie,
Annie and Ethel. Mr. B. is a man of a literary turn of mind, and
keeps well posted in the current affairs of the day. P. O., Table
Grove.
WUJiam Qwiflien-t, of the iirm of W. & J. Carithers, merchants,
Table Grove. When the red man and the deer sported through the
forests of Farmers' tp., William Carithers, sen., emigrated hither
with his family and settled on sec. 33. He became a prominent
farmer, adding to his little homestead until he left 320 acres of val-
uable land to his heirs. He died Feb. 14, 1851, at the age of 50
years, leaving to his widow a family of 7 children, 6 boys and 1
girl. Mrs. C. is still living on the old home place, at the age of 62
years. There has been no death in the family since the death of
654 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Mr. C. The boys are all hap]iily settled around near the old home-
stead, transacting business for themselves. Robert is a baciielor
farmer of MeDonough Co., owning 200 acres of \vell-imi)rove(l
land. Our subject is in the mercantile business with his yoi^nger
brother, John, in Table Grove. They began business here July 15,
LS71, in a building 22x50 feet, capital, ^2, GOO. At ])resent the
building is 22x80 feet, present capital, $20,000; annual sales,
$20,000.
Stephen Carliri; P. O., Table Grove; resides on sec. 20; was
born in Ireland May 3, 1814; came to America in 1834, and re-
mained in Pennsylvania until 1837, when he went to Virginia, and
there remained until 1842 ; is a stone mason, and as such has worked
while in the East. He came to Fulton Co. in 1842, bought a farm,
and improved it, laboring hard, until he at one time owned over
700 acres. He gave his children each a farm as they were married.
He now owns 210 acres of valuable land. Xo man in Farmers' tp.
has worked harder or accumulated more laud than Mr. Carlin, with
the same amount of capital, in the same length of time. He was
married Feb. 8, 1852, to Jane S. Dolan, by whom he had G children.
Mrs. Carlin died in November, 1871. Mr. Carlin again married in
July, 1874, this time to Catharine Rigner, by whom he has ■') chil-
dren. He has 7 children living, namely : John A., Thomas O.,
Sophia J., Stephen D., Catharine A., Sarah and Carrie B. Mrs.
Carlin, being a widow, had 4 children when Mr. Carlin married her.
They are members of the Catholic Church. Mr. C. is regarded as
a veVy charitable man, lending his aid for the support of the Church
and other benevolent institutions. John married Rosa Sipples, and
resides in McDonough X'o. Sophia is the wife of Jeff. Crail, of
Vermont.
Albert Carrison, sec. 5, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Table Grove ; born
in this township Jan. 1, 1846, son of the next mentioned. He re-
ceived a common-school education in Shinn's school-house. He
was raised on the farm, and is now a prominent farmer and stock-
raiser of this township. He was married Feb. 17, l.S76,to Fh)rence
Barnes, daughter of Isaac Barnes, of this township. Tiiey have
had two children; but one is living, Charles.
Robert Garrison, sec. 8, Farmers' tp. ; P. ()., Table Grove ; was
born in England Feb. 12, 1816, and is the son of John and Diana
Garrison, who were also natives of England. They came to Amer-
ica in 1837, and located in Pittsburg, Pa. At that time Pittsburg
was a small town. He came to Illinois in 1839, settling at Table
Grove. He started in life with nothing, and now owns 300 acres
of valuable land, mostly under excellent cultivation. He was mar-
ried in June, 1842, to Elizabeth Berry, by whom he had 8 children,
— 5 girls and 3 boys, — of whom 5 girls and 1 boy are living. He
is a prominent farmer and stock-raiser, in which he has been very
successful. Three of the girls are married, and 2, Harriet and Mary
J., remain at home.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 655
Samuel Clemans, farmer ; P. ()., Ipava ; liis first habitation in
Illinois was his wagon, which he and family occupied for 2 months,
when thev moved into their spacious cabin, 20x18 feet, one story,
no doors or widcnvs. ISIanv a nio;ht has Mr. Clemans returned from
a distance with his clothes frozen on him, being so cold he could not
unhitch his team. At present he owns a large tract of land under
good cultivation. He was born in Huntingdon Co., Pa,, Feb. 16,
1816. His father died when he was quite young; hence he had no
educational advantages. His grandfather and father lK)re the same
name that he and a son bear, viz: Samuel. His grandfather Mas a
soldier in both the Revolution and the war of 1812, and after return-
ing from the latter he would sing many war songs to his grandchil-
dren and wee]) while singing. This aged veteran carried two bul-
lets in his body until death, which occurred at the age of 90 years.
Mr. Clemans' grandfather, Sanuiel Sunderland, was also in the war
of 1812, and was a native of England. Mr. C. was married in
1835 to Susan Ripple. They have had 10 children, of whom 5 are
living. He is a pron\inent stock-raiser, and keeps all kinds of stock
constantly for sale. Is a general adviser for his neighbors, and a
Republican.
Si/lvanus B. Corey, saddle and harness-maker, Table Grove, was
born June 25, 1835, in Maine ; family lived in Bangor until he was
12 years old, when they removed to Xewburyport, Mass. ; there
they remained until the spring of '55, when he came to Chicago,
and the following fall to Canton, where he has mostly resided until
July, 1879, Vhen he located in Table Grove. Here he established a
saddle and harness sho]), in which business he has been engaged ever
since he was 18 years old. He was married April 4, 1857, to Sallie
McBain, by whom he has had 2 children : only Frank E. is living.
Mr. Corey served in the late war in Co. F, 88th I. V. I., and ])ar-
ticipated in nearly all the leading battles of the de])artmcnt of the
Cumberland ; was discharged in June, '65. He is buildnguj) a fine
trade in Table (irove
Charles Cox, son of Amos Cox, was born in Schuylkill Co., Pa.,
July 19, 1849; has been a railroad man for over 3 years, also en-
gaged in farming for 5 years. He was apprenticed to Benjamin
Haffcr, a shoemaker, when but 12 years old; he remained with
Haffer nearly 4 years, and came to McDonough Co., 111., in 1870,
where he engaged in farming. In lcS7;> lie established a shoe-shop
in Good Ho])e, which he carried on successfully for three years,
when he removed to Table Grove, where he has had greater success
than he had anticipated. He was married Oct. 7, 1875, to Sarah
Porter, who has borne him 2 children, John and Amos. Mrs. Cox'
father, Samuel Porter, was one of the pioneers of Canton, where he
still lives.
Wm. \V. Ciishman. The subject of this sketch was born in Staf-
ford, Conn., Jan. 28, 1810, and is the son of John and Lois Cush-
man. He has seen many hardships in his time; for his father died
656 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
when our subject was but 4 years old, and he was bound out to a
man with whom ho resided 11 years; when, being' tired with his
treatment, and diseouraged at iiis pr()S[)e('ts tor reward, he ran away,
traveling on foot, through snow and rain, a distance of 14 miles, to
a place of safety. He pursued the occupation of iron-moulder for
several years, and came to Harris township in 1841, He was mar-
ried A])ril 6, 1845, to Sally St. Clair, by whom he had 9 children, of
whom 8 are living. jNIr. Cushman died Oct. 3, 187.3. Mr. C, in
1836, while working in Rochester, N. Y., fell in an open sewer and
hurt his knee, which rendered him a cripj)le for life. The names of
his children are Ann E., Sarah P^., John \V., Charles J., Clarissa,
Emma J., Peter B. and Mary L.
\Vm. H. DUworth, sec. 29, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Table Grove : was
born in Fulton Co. March 5, 1855. His grandfather, Harvey Har-
ris, before the excitement of the Black' Hawk war had vanished iu
1832, came to the wilds of Fulton county and endured many priva-
tions and hardships in paving the way ibr the prosperity of future
generations. He died in April, 1876. Our subject's father, James
Dilworth, is a prominent farmer of Vermont tp. Mr. Dilworth was
married, Jan. 12, 1876, to Pozelle Montgomery, daughter of AVm.
Montgomery (dec), of Missouri. They have two boys, viz : Thorn-
ton and Harvey H. Mr. D. is a well-to-do farmer and stock-
raiser.
Warner D. Douglas settled here in 1840; has been engaged in the
drv-goods and grocery business for 25 years, the last 13 years of
which time he has been located in Table Grove, but is -now closing
out his entire stock of goods, pre})aratory to removing to Nebraska.
He was married, Jan. 3, 1830, to Caroline Brooks, by whom he has
had 11 children: 5 are living. He has always been a pioneer.
When but 10 years old, he lived in Indiana when the Indians were
as numerous there as cur dogs are in Illinois. His father was in the
war of 1812. Mrs. Douglas was born June 4, 1810, in N. Y., and
is the daughter of Nathan Brooks, who was a prominent soldier in
the war of 1812.
Shiloh W. Durham, lumber dealer. Table Grove; was born in
Wayne Co., 111., June 18, 1842, and is the son of Washington Dur-
ham, who was of English descent, and who died in Southern Illi-
nois, when our subject was but 6 years old. After his father's death
his mother moved with her fiunily of four children, Judge, Mariam,
Shiloh and Victoria, to Vermont, 111. His mother placed Judge
under the care of John Harland of Farmers' tp. The two sisters
she kept at home. His mother and the other three children passed
through the ('h(dera scourge of 1851 in Vermont. He studied hard
between work hours, and at the age of 16 he taught his first school
at Hickory Grove, and was retained as teacher for several years.
He continued the profession for eleven years. Mr. Durham was
married Aug. 24, 1862, to Miss Lou Farr, daughter of Samuel Farr.
His family consists of three daughters and one son, viz: Eoava K.,
HISTOllY OF FULTON COUNTY. 657
Nandora, Pearley B. and Judge. Mr. Durhaiii entered the lumber
trade in the fall of 1870 at Table Grove in partnership with Thos.
Matthews ; they continued the partnership three years, after which
Mr. Durham bought Mr. ^Matthews' interest, and has continued the
business alone since the fall of 1873. He sells over $20,000 worth
of stock annually. He and his family are members of Table Grove
Christian Ghurch.
Xaf/Kuucl Eashif, farmer, sec. 2G ; P. O., Ipava. In the year
1832 Thomas Easley ventured into the then wilds of Fulton Co.,
to seek for himself a home. He was a saddler by trade, having
learned his trade in Wheeling, Va. He was also a Surveyor.
AVhilc working at his trade in Lewistown he used his surplus
money in improving a farm in Farmers' township, sec. 2(5. He was
married March 7, 1836, to Lydia A. Buck, who was born in Harri-
son Co., O., June 23, 1819. They have had 7 children, of whom 4
are living. Mr. Easley died Dec. 7, 1849. Our subjecit, Nathaniel
Easley, was l)orn ]\Iay 10, 1848, in Farmers' tp. He is a prosper-
ous farmer, and is residing on the old home ])lacc with his mother.
He is also proprietor of a threshing-machine and clover-huller.
Robert F. Francis, a native of England, was born May 22, 1843;
came to this country when but 4 years old, and remained in New
York 5 years, when he came to Schuyler Co., 111., where he receiv-
ed a common-school education. He was reared on a farm ; served
4 years in the late war, and was a prisoner 10 months and 2 weeks
in that most fearful of all dens, Andersonville. He weighed 150
pounds when he entered the ])rison and was reduced to 72 jiounds
when weighed in St. Louis, and had then been out of the prison a
month. He will always be known as one of the heroes of Ander-
sonville. His father, John Francis, was a coach-painter, and died
in Chicago in ]May, 1874. Our sul)ject was married Nov. 22, 18(58,
to Mary Walker, by whom he has 4 children. She being a widow,
had 3 children before he married her.
M. D. Hall, sec. 28, Farmers' tp. ; 1\ O., Table Grove ; was
born in McDonough Co., Jan. 5, 1851, and hence is connected with
the history of this part ^)i' Illinois. His father is a native of Ken-
tucky, and came to Illinois when but a i)oy. He still resides on
the place he first purchased at Pennington's Point, McDonough C'o.
Our subject received a common-school education, and has since en-
gaged in farming and stock-raising, in which he has been success-
ful. He was married Oct. 10, 1872, to Clara Dilworth, daughter
of James Dilworth, of Vermont, 111. Mr. D. was among the
early settlers of Illinois. Mr. and Mrs. Hall have one child,
Willie D.
Wil/idiii ir. Hammond, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 31, Farm-
ers' tp. ; P. ()., Table Grove. He was burn May 27, 1835, in Sul-
livan Co., Tenn,; his educational advantages were limited, but by
hard study obtained an education that enabled him to teach. His
father, Mickey Hammond, of McDonough Co., is a native of Sul-
658 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
livan Co., Tonn., is a veteran of tlic war of 1812, and hence a pen-
sioner. Mr. Hammond, sen., settled in McDononti^li Co. in 1855,
and is a j>roniinent farmer of that county. Our subject was mar-
ried in 18()4 to Minerva C. Harlan, and they have had (j children,
— Wm. R., James E,, Thomas A., Nellie, Fannie and an infant
boy. Mr. Hammond possesses 320 acres here, and 160 acres in
McDonouo-h C\).
Hiram II. llarrk ; P. O., Table Grove. At 22 years of age this
man settled on the northwest quarter of sec. 31, in Farmers' town-
ship,— nice rolling prairie. His father, James H., was a native of
N. H., and raised in Mass. When he obtained his majority he went
to Cayuga Co., N. Y., and from thence to Onondaga Co. While in
N. Y. he engaged in farming and salt-manufacture. He emigrated
to McDonough Co. in 1834 or '35, where he established the first
dairy in McDonough Co. He has since died, leaving many friends
to mourn the loss of one so highly esteemed. Our subject, H. H.
Harris, owns 529 acres of land and is a leading tarmer and stock-
raiser in this part of Fulton county. He was married, Aug. 4, '36,
to Lydia Rutledge, by whom he had 4 children, of whom 1 is liv-
ing. Mrs. H. died Nov. 24, 1864; and'he was married again, Jan.
8, 1872, this time to Mary E. Robinson, by whom he had 2 chil-
dren, of whoni one is living ; the only boy living is Horace B.
Mrs. Harris' brother, Benjamin Robinson, came to Illinois in 1849,
where he pnrsued the occupation of tailor successfully until his
death, which occurred Feb. 7, 1879.
George Hickson, sec. 23, Farmers' tp. ; P.O., Bcrnadotte; is a
native of Warwickshire, Eng., and was born Nov. 19, 1823. He
crossed the ocean in 1856, landing in N. Y. city in September, and
came to Bureau Co., 111., in November of the same year, where he
remained until the following March, when he settled in Fulton Co.
Since that time he has succeeded in making a good farm of 120
acres right in the brush, or timber. Few men can say as much ; for
besides this he has cleared 20 acres of heavy timber near Maple's
mill, H miles east of Ijcwistown, on the old ]>lank road leading from
Canton to Liverpool. He also cleared SO acres for Gen. L. F. Ross
in Jjcwistown townshi]). He was married in INIarch, 1859, to Ellen
Alumbaugh, by whom he had 6 children : of these 4 are living, viz:
Chas. O., Sarah A., Haskell and Stephen. Chas. O. married Callie
Miller, daughter of Jacob Miller, of \"ermont tp. Sarah A. married
Geo. W. Harding, of New Phila(lel})liia, 111.
Franklin Holme.'i, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 35, Farmers' tp. ;
P. C, Ipava; was born in Fulton Co., Oct. 16, 1848, and is the son
of Thomas Holmes, a prominent farmer of Vermont tp. Thomas
and Rachel (Derry) Holmes are natives of Ky., and were among
the early pioneers of Fulton county, and with others deserve great
credit for their noble work of preparing the way for the prosperity
of their children. Mr. Franklin Holmes was married, Oct. 10,
1871, to Sarah Hii)sley, daughter of Mr, Nicholas Hipsley, of Ver-
mont, 111. They have 2 children, Eifa and Ray.
HISTORY OF FUI/rON COUNTY. 659
Dr. /. Hosman was born in Flushing tp., Belmont Co., ()., in
1823; about 1835 the family moved to New Castle, where our sub-
ject received a common-school education ; A]>ril 3, 1845, was mar-
ried ; read medicine under Dr. l^eard in Boston, (). ; attended lectures
at the Eclectic Medical College of Cincinnati, but since has prac-
ticed the regular system, — one year in Belmont Co. and 10 in Frank-
lin Co., O. ; came to Bluff City, Schuyler Co., 111., at the close of
the war ; in 187() located in Table (irove ; became disgusted with the
practice of medicine (attending only certain proi'essional calls) and
went into the drug business, which he finds far more pleasant.
John Hoi/le, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 8 ; P. O., Table Grove.
In 1845 John Hoyle, sr., with his flimily settled in Harris tp., where
he remained four years, when he removed to Farmers' townshiji,
and here resided for twenty-two years. In 1871 he removed to
Adams county, Iowa, where he died Aug. 3, 1878. Our subject,
John Hoyle, was born in England, April 7, 1826, and was
brought to New York when but eighteen months old. A
part of his education was obtained in an old log school-house
in Ohio, and a part in Steubenville, Ohio. Mr. Hoyle is a
leading farmer and stock-raiser in Farmers' tp., and owns 400 acres
of well im])roved land. He was married, in April, 1848, to Lu-
cinda Walters, by whom he has had 13 children : 8 are living, and 4
married. Mrs. Hoyle's father, William W^alters, was a soldier in
the Black Hawk war.
Lawrence Hoi/le, sec. 3, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Bernadotte ; was born
in Tuscarawas Co., O., Nov. 20, 1832, a brother of the above.
His father, John Hoyle, was a native of England ; he brought his
family to Fulton county in 1845, where he remained uutil 1870,
when he removed to Iowa, where he died in Aug., 1878. Our sub-
ject has resided in Fulton county since 1845, and is now a promi-
nent farmer and stock-raiser, and owns 260 acres of land, 130 of
which is under cultiyation. He was married, April 20, 1853, to
Mary Walters, daughter of the late Wm. Walters, so well known in
the pioneer history of this county. They had 8 children, viz : An-
geline, John \^^, Jane B., Marv A., Henry L., Sarah E., Lawrence
W. and Polly Ann. Mrs. Hoyle died Feb. 28, 1870; Mr. Hoyle
again married, Nov. 19, 1876, Margaret E. Murray. They have
one child, Clara.
Gcorr/e Ilugliex^ farmer and stook-raiser ; P. O., Table (irove. In
1834 he emigrated with his family from Geddes, N. Y., to Farmers'
tp. They liyed in a log cabin 16x18 feet, with a quilt for a door,
and no window or floor; the house was covered with clapboards, fas-
tened Avith poles ; this ancient roof was known as the cob roof. Mr.
Hughes was very lonesome, and bore many privations for the first
two years. At one time he went 5 n)iles to borrow a little meal.
He was married, Sept. 1, 1831, to Esther Mayo, by whom he had 2
children, one of whom is living, John, now in Michigan. Mr.
Hughes has been a life-long farmer and stock-raiser except about 8
660 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
years, -when he was eiifraged in tlie mercantile business in Table
Grove. His father, Freeman Hughes, a native of Mass., was a real-
estate dealer of N. Y., and also State Salt Inspector for 13 years,
and Justice of the Peace 13 years. He ha.-s three grandchildren, —
Geo. F., Charles E. and Elizzie B. ; the eldest is 21, the second 19,
and the third 16 years of age. Our subject has been eminently suc-
cessful in business, and now possesses about 400 acres of well
improved land.
John II. Hunter, merchant, emigrated from Kentucky to this State
in 1836 ; learned the saddle and harness-maker's trade with his
father when a boy ; when of age he clerked in a drug store, in which
he remained 5 years ; he then engaged in the dry-goods business for
about 1*2 years. He entered the army as a substitute for Lemuel
Lindsay, who was drafted, in Co. F, 31st 111. He joined the regi-
ment Nov. 15, 1864, the day Sherman began his noted march ; was an
entire stranger to the regiment, and on Jan. 4, ^'oo, he was appointed
Sergeant, and on July 2, was commissioned First Lieutenant of the
Co. and acting Adjutant of the regiment; in Avhich capacity he
acted until the close of the war. For the truth of this statement
we have only to examine the Adjutant General's Report. Mr.
Hunter was married Jan. 21, 1875, to Essie Bradticld, daughter of
Samuel Bradfield, of Bushnell. This union has been blessed witli
two little boys, Johnnie and Freddie. Our subject is, a successful
merchant at Table Grove. He carries a stock of ^3,000 in general
merchandising:. He first established a drug and hardware store here
in 1875, in company with Mr. Theodore Wright. He sold his
interest to Mr. Wright in 1878, and in 1879 bought the store orig-
inally owned by Mr. H. Smither, and is now building u]>a large
trade.
Leiris E. KcUij, proprietor of the Kelly House, Tai)le Grove,
was born Nov. 1, 1816, in Fleming Co., Ky. ; was educated in a
log school-house, using Dilworth's Speller, Guthrie's Arithmetic,
Kirkham's Grammar and the Bil)le as text bo(»ks. In 1836 became
with his parents to the wilds of Vermont. At that time there was
but one house between Table Grove and Viacom)). Mr. Kelley
taught school four vears, and then for eight vears he was unable to
pursue any occupation on account of sore eyes. He was Postmaster
of Vermont 1851-4; he then engaged in the mercantile business in
Vermont ; also operated a saw and grist-mill in connection with the
store, until 1860. He then engaged in farming until 1876, when he
became proprietor of the Kelly House in Tal)le Grove, which he
successfully conducts. His father, Francis Kelly, was a promi-
nent firmer of Vermont, and died in 1 84(5, at the age of 67 years.
He was drafted in the war of 1812, but circumstances being such
that he could not leave home, he emj>loyed a substitute.
ir. G. KeU I/, farmer ; P. O., Table (irove. Although a resident
of ^IcDonough ("o., his western life has been spent principally in
good old Fulton. Our subject was one of the "stand-bys" during
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HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 663
the cholera scourge in Vermont in 1851. His wife and 2 chihh-en
died with that dreaded disease. Great credit is due Mr. Kollv,
Cephas Toland, Joseph Royle and others, for their untiring; efforts
to save the attiicted, and for the tender care they exercised over all
stricken with the scourge. INIr. Kelly is a brother of the proprietor
of the Kelly House, of Table Grove. He was born in Fleming
Co., Ky., June 16,1818; is now a prominent farmer of McDon-
ough Co. Mr, Kelly improved the farm now occupied by David
Corbit, one mile south of Vermont. He is the father of 5 children,
of whom but 1 is living, — John W.
Jacob Lemmer was born Nov. 13, 1840, in Stark Co., O. His
parents removed to Knox Co., ()., Avhen our subject was but a year
old. Here he was reared on a farm until he was 16 years old, when
he learned the shoemaker's trade in Mt. Vernon, O. He then
worked as a journeyman for several years in different towns of Ohio.
He served in Co. C, 10th Ohio Cav., and was at the siege of Atlan-
ta, and accompanied Sherman in his march to the sea; was taken
prisoner on his return in South C^arolina, and was paroled at (xolds-
borough, Feb. 28, 1865. He was discharged June 10, 1865. Mr.
L. was married Sept. 16, 1866, to Catharine Harrat, and they
have had 7 children, of whom 4 are living. He has been a success-
ful shoemaker for 23 years, and has been located in Table (jrove
since Sept. 2, 1876. His fiither, George Lemmer, is a well-to-do
farmer in Knox Co., Ohio, and highly appreciated as a citizen of
that county.
Prof. T. G. Love, of the Table Grove schools, was born in
Mercer Co., Pa., Dec. 2, 1849. He was reared on a firm, receiving
a common-school education, after which he attended the Westmin-
ster College at New Wilmington, Pa., for 2 years in all, teaching at
intervals to procure money to finish his education. He has been
teaching for 15 years; is now entering upon his seventh year in the
schools of Table Grove, than which there is no better evidence of
his success as a disciplinarian and instructor. He governs without
corporal punishment. He was married June 29, 1871, to Miss
Cassaline J. Wright, daughter of (i ran ville Wright, of Vermont
tp. They have had 5 children, of whom 3 are living, namely:
Gabrielle, Khea and Gladys. His father was also a native of Penn-
sylvania, and a prosperous farmer there until Sept., 1869, when he
died.
Alonzo j\fcC((l/ei/, Table (irroye, ventnred out when a boy to this
State in an early day, and persuaded his parents to come in Sept.,
1838. His educational advantages were very limited ; being the
only son at home he was compelled to remain at home a greater
portion of the time and attend to supporting his parents and sister.
Yet, since he settled in life Mr. McCalley has obtained a very good
education by hard study and close application. His father died in
1844, and his mother in 1840. Alonzo married in 1840 Amanda M.
Hargess, by whom he has had 6 children ; 5 are living. He carae
40
664 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
to this county in '42, learned the potter's business, then returned to
Sangamon (\)., where lie ])iirsu('(l the j)otter's business f<»r o years,
when he moved his family to Fulton Co.; here he followed his trade
6 years, when he engaged in farming, and continued in this business
for 26 years, during which time he handled a great deal of stock.
In this business he was very successful, giving each child 81,000
when of age. Mrs. McCalley died of cancer Nov. 27, 1877. Mr.
McC. sold his farm for ^^7,000 and moved to Table Grove to doctor
her. He entered the livery business in the Grove soon after he
located here, in which he has been very successful. In March, 1879,
Mr. McGalley married Anna (Hunter) Hand, with whom he had
been acquainted from her infancy.
Edward D. Mesirk; Table Grove, was born April 18, 1850, in X.
Y., and is the sou of Martin Mesick, of Plymouth, 111. His par-
ents brought him to Illinois when but 9 years old, where he received
a common-school education and learned the wagon-maker's trade.
He is now running a wagon shop, in connection with a paint-shop,
in Table Grove. He has been here four years and has built up an
excellent trade. . He was married Oct. 2, 1878, to Anna Biggs, by
whom he has 1 child. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church,
and Mrs. M. is connected with the Christian Church of this place.
Beuhen A. Miner, sec. 17, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Table Grove ; was
born in thjs township Aug. 20, 1852, son of the next mentioned, and
has resided on and near the old home place ever since. He received
a common-school education in the Shinn school-house ; was mar-
ried Dec. 25, 187.*], to Mary J. Barker, daughter of John AV. Barker,
one of the first settlers in the township. They have one little boy,
Walter R. Mr. Miner is a prominent farnu^r.
William Mrner, sec. 17, Farmers' township; P.O., Table Grove;
was born in Jessamine Co., Ky., Se])t. 4, 1810, and is the son of
John Miner, deceased, who was a native of Pa., and was born July
4, 1775. They have resided in Ky. and Tenn., and removed to
Danville, 111., 'in Jan., 1828, and to* Canton in 1830, where they re-
maini'd until 18;U, when they removed to this township, settling on
sec. It). There was not a house or rail between Spoon river and
Macomb when oUl father Miner landed in this township, except that
of Mr. Barker's. Mr. John Miner died January 20, 1838. Our
subject had very limited educational advantages. The schools he
attended in Kentucky were subscription schools, and his father
would sometimes sign 3 seholars for 3 months, and send all his
children for one nu)nth, which would exhaust the time for which he
had subscribed. Mr. Miner has improved 1,050 acres of land in the
West, including 2()() acres in Iowa. As afarmer and stock-raiser he
has been eminently successful. His fine stock took a goodly share
of premiums at the county fairs; and in 1853 his farm took the
])remium as being under the best cultivation and management of any
farm in the (,-ounty. Mr. Miner was in the Black Hawk war, under
Gen. Stilhnan, and participated in 9 ditierent battles, or skirmishes.
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 0(55
He was of the 10 who volunteered to search for the dispatch-carrier
that had been killed by the Indians; and wiiilc niakiiiij; this search
they were fired ujion by sonic Indians in ambush, breaking; the lc<>: of
one of his comrades. Gen. Pope ordered them to advance, Mdiich
they did, not leaving one Indian to tell the tale ; but this came
near resu hi no; fatally to Mr. jSIiner; an Indian threw his tomahawk
at a man in front of Miner, cutting off the '' thumb piece" of his gun,
and passed by Mr. Miner's ear, severing two "tassels" from his cap.
He received a slight wound in Stillman's defeat the scar of which he
still bears. In that battle, as all perhaps have read before, they
were surrounded, and were compelled to cut their way through the
Indian Hues, which they did manfully. There is one more fact that
we will record concerning his connection with that war. It seems that
Gen. Stillman allowed the Indians to come into camp, get drunk,
and sing their songs and dance, which infuriated some of the boys ;
and Mr. Miner leading the rest, broke guard, took their arms and
routed the red-skins. Gen. Stillman ordered them to lay down their
arms, l)ut they would not do so until he gave them a promise that
he would not court-martial them. Mr. Miner was married A])i'il
4, 1833, to Rachel Ward, by whom he had 9 children. Mrs. M.
was born April 4, 1813. She died April 10, 1849. He was again
married Feb. 5, 1850, this time to Xancy Andrus, who was born
July 30, 1819. They have 6 children, — making him the father of
15 children, viz : J. C, Aaron N. (died in army), Timothy (j., John
AV. (fell at the battle of Stone Kiver), Martha (wife of Dr. Bacon),
Table Grove, Parkhurst P., David W., Phoebe F. and Susan II.,
twins, Oliver W. (dec), Reuben A., Cyrenius (dec), Carrie L. (dec),
Emma F. (dec), and Olive AV.
J. W. Morfj/an, is a prominent farmer living over in McDonough
county. P. O., Table Grove.
Chester ^fio-jih;/, sec 8, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Table Grove ; was
born in Licking Co., O., Se])t. 3>(), |84(), and is the son of Isaac and
Rhoda Murphy ; the former is dead, and the latter lives near Cuba,
this county. He received his education in an old-fashioned log
school-house. His first work was teaming with a four-horse team
from Cuba to Liver})ool. He was so small at that time that he had
to lead the horses up to the wagon tongue and climb upon the
tongue in order to enable him to put the harness on them. He
knows all about hard labor; indeed, but few men have ever done
more hard work in the same nund^er of years than has Mr. Mur])hy.
He was married, Dec. 22, 18()(), to Caroline Hoyle, daughter of
John Hoyle, so well known in the early history of this county.
They have 3 children, — Perry K., James E. and Ella L. Mr. M.
is now engaged in general farming; he also has run a thresher for
7 years.
Peter P. Murray ; P. C, Ipav^a ; was born in Hancock Co., W.
Va., March 24, 1838, the son of Hiram Murray, a fruit-grower of
Louisville, Ky. Mr. Murray came to this county in 1856; has
i^QC) HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
been a l)ri(k-maker, and now is the proprietor of the Shady Dell
Brick and Tile Factory, Farmers' tp.. run l)y steam power. It will
succeed as long as Mr. ^lurray has it under his control. Mr. M.
was married Oct. 9, 1859, to Mary E. Hohues, by whom he had 2
children, both deceased. He has an adopted child, Hugh P.
^lurray.
;S'. E. Parsons, sec. 26, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Ipava ; was born in
Huntingdon Co., Pa., Sept. 22, 1820; son of Samuel Parsons, who
was born, raised and died on the same farm in that county. He was
a verv prominent hatter in his early and middle life, and was known
as " Hatter Sam." Our subject was known as " Little Sam," and
his father's cousin was known as " Long Sam." Mr. Parsons was
raised a farmer's boy. His early educational advantages were lim-
ited, but by hard study he has made a well-informed scholar of
himself. He came to Fulton county in 1847, and settled in Farm-
ers' township. "When he landed at Point Isabel he had but
§29.75. The first night they slept in a warehouse on a pile of corn
sacks. He is regarded as one of the pioneer Metliodist ministers
of this county. He has ridden 40 miles and preached 3 sermons in
one day. His services were highly ajipreciated by the settlers, and
he has been very successful in winning souls to Christ. He was
class-leader and exhorter for about 8 years, when he was licensed to
preach. He was married, Feb. 11, 1841, to Susanna Jeffries, by
whom he had 10 children ; of these but 3 are living, viz : Rebecca
M., Lewis E. and John Wesley.
Asaph Ferry, deceased, was born in Franklin Co., X. Y., June
29, 1810, and came to this county in 1837, where he married Mrs.
Caroline R. Gardner, next mentioned. He was Sheriff of Fulton
Co. 2 years, and Dej^uty Sheriif 2 years. He was a truly great and
good man. He died Feb. 7, 1879.
Caroline Ji. Perri/, widow of Asaph Perry, above mentioned, was
a daughter of the late James P. Montgomery, of Ipava. The
family emigrated to Fulton Co. in 1838, wiien Caroline was very
young. She first married Allen M. Gardner, May 3, 1842, and
they had one child, which died young; Mr. (nirdner died Aug. 21.
1847, and Feb. 11, 1850, she married Asai)h Perry, above men-
tioned, in the P. E. church at Alton, 111., Rev. S. Y. McMasters
officiating; of this marriage were 5 children, 4 surviving, namely,
Harry M., Katie, Wm. 1). and Mattie C.
Albert G. Pk-keruuj, farmer ; P. O., Table Grove ; was born in
Freeport, Harrison Co., O., Dec. 28, 1829. He was but 12 years
old when his father died, and he received but three months' school-
ing. He was knocked around, as it were, from ])illar to post until
17 years of age, when he located with his mother, and began busi-
ness for himself, buying stock and farming. He apprenticed him-
self in 1S51 to John McMatts, a plasterer, of Cadiz, Ohio ; with
whom he remained ab(»ut 18 months. He then began the business
for himself, which he pursued until 1857. He came to Fulton Co.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 667
in the fall of 1856, where he now resides, a prosperons farmer of
Table Grove. He was married in May, 1859, to Sarah J. Strode,
and they have had 6 children, of whom 5 are living. Mrs. Picker-
ing died Feb. 12, 1872, leaving the care of the household to Misses
Helen E. and Sarah I.
I. P. Pickering, blacksmith. Table Grove, was born in Harrison
Co., O., May 14, 1832; was raised on a farm until 17 years old,
when he was apprenticed to Henry Lott, a blacksmith, in (ieorge-
town, Ohio ; when in 1851 he finished his apprenticeship he came
to Fulton county, where he worked at his vocation, and is now pro-
prietor of the Table Grove Blacksmith Shop, and has a large run of
custom. He was married, Dec. 28, 1854, to Hannah Green, by
whom he has had 10 children: 7 are living. Mr. P. enlisted in the
late war, but being a cripple he was not admitted into the regular
service ; he paid about $500, however, to fill other quotas. This
was a truly patriotic act in iSIr. Pickering, which should be remem-
bered by Uncle Sam and the compliment returned.
A. K. & E. F. Porta- , proi)rietors of the Grove City Mills,
Table Grove, are natives of Fulton Co. The former was born Oct.
5, 1838, the latter June 9, 1842. They were educated in the com-
mon schools of this Co. and reared on a farm. Mr. A. K. Porter is
an engineer, having had charge of engines on the Lower Mississijipi
river in 1864—5. He has since been engaged in the milling busi-
ness, 3 years of which time he has had charge (in company with
his brother E. F.) of the Grove City Mills. He was married, Nov.
14, 1865, to Charlotte Diver, of Cleveland, Ohio. This tmion has
been blessed with 3 children, — Harry S., Lizzie antl Emma. Mr.
E. F. Porter was married, Dec. 21, 1865, to Susan Lacy, daughter
of John Lacy, of Pleasant tp. They have 3 children, — Hettie M.,
Florence and Lottie. He pursued the occupation of farming until
within the past three years, when he engaged, as above stated, with
his brother in the millinir business. The mill was erected in 1870
by Ormsby & Hipsley, and has a capacity of 40 barrels a day.
Messrs. Porter Bros, do a fine business and have earned an enviable
rejjutation.
Dr. J.S. Porflocl: was born in Virginia, Feb. 23, 1801. At the
age of six years he emigrated with his parents to Kentucky, near
Louisville, where he remained until his 16th year. From that time
until he was 25 he pursued various vocations, but finally concluded
to become a ])hysician, and about 1827 began reading in Cincinnati.
In due time he located in Shelby county, Ind., where he i)racticed
with great success for 15 years. After this he removed to Farmers'
tp., this county, and here was in active practice until within 2 years
of his death, which occurred March 15, 1878. During the earlier
settlement of this part of the county the Doctor was continually
among the sick and dying, day and night, amid sunshine and storm,
enduring hardships known only to pioneer physicians. He was
plain in speech and dress, and his last words were, " I want a plain
6t)8 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
coffin to contain my body, and a plain marble slab to mark my last
resting place. Do not weep for me, for I am goino; to a world
where sorrow is no more; where all is peace and haj)piness; where
I expect to meet you to part no more forever."
Mary A. Portlock, widow of the late Dr. Portlock, was born in
Franklin Co., Ind., Feb. 28, 1815; was educated in a select or old-
fashioned subscription school in Indiana ; married to Dr. J. S. Port-
lock March 4, 18-30; had 12 children, of whom 6 are living, viz:
James L., Samuel Y., Wm. P., Emeline, Caroline and Minerva.
Mrs. Portlock still lives on the old home place on which thev set-
tled Xov. 15, 1840.
WUUam P. Portlock was born in Shelby Co., Ind., April (3, 1840,
and is the son of the late Dr. Portlock, a pioneer of Fulton Co., of
whom we speak further elsewhere. His parents brought him to this
county when but an infant. He here received a common-school ed-
ucation, where he was reared on a farm. He was marrietl Mav 1,
1861, to Adelaide Hickey, and they have had 10 children, of whom
5 are living, viz : Ida, Martha, Lucy, Mary and Squire. Mr. Port-
lock is a farmer in good circumstances, on section 20, Farmers' tp.,
and owns 200 acres of very good land.
Joe/ S. Pee.sr, sec. 11, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Bernadotte. Before
railroads were known in Illinois, and when Black Hawk's toma-
hawk had scarcely been lowered from the zenith of its brutal butch-
ery, Joel Reese, sr., in 1831, loaded his family and eifects in a two-
horse wagon, and leaving civilization in Muskingum Co., Ohio,
through great difficulty and sickness, and wintering on the White
river in Indiana, landed in Fulton county in September, 1832. He
died April 6, 1836, honored and esteemed by all who knew him.
Our subject, Joel S. Reese, was born Dec. 23, 1812, in Muskingum
Co., Ohio, and came with his]xirents to this county in 1832. Being
a young man, full of vigor of life, he went to work with a will, and
in 1835 he in partnership with Jonathan Jennings, erected a saw-
mill on Spoon river, on the opposite bank directly across from
where Fuller's mill now stands, in Harris township. They were a
year in completing the work; and when they raised the frame work
they had to go 14 miles to secure help. Mr. Reese's father having
died soon after this, he was called home to attend to domestic affairs,
leaving the mill in the care of Mr. Jennings. After realizing some
profits from the mill he sold his interest in it for S2,O00. He mar-
ried Feb. 5, 1840, Mary A. Cline, by whom he had 11 children;
of these 9 are living, viz : Harriet A., Henry B., John W., Mary
J., S. Melissa, Frank, Lucy, Samuel K. and Reuben A. Reuben A.
is a stenographer, writing at the rate of 100 words per minute, which
is good for a beginner. Mr. Reese is engaged in general farming.
David Rcncau, sec. 10, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Bernadotte ; was born
May 11, 1823, in Eastern Tennessee, and is the son of Fleming
Reneau, of Harris tp. ; he came to Fulton Co. with his parents in
1844. By hard study and close application to his books since
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. G69
grown, he hat? obtained a good education ; would have become a
scholar in his younger days had there been opportunity. He was
raised a farmer boy, and knows all about chopping and rolling logs,
pulling dogwood, etc. He was married in Nov., 1848, to Mary
Rutledge, sister of 8ilas Rutledge, of Harris tp., and daughter of
Wm. Rutledge, so well known in the pioneer history of Fulton Co.
and who assisted in crushing the Black Hawk war. Mr. and Mrs.
Reneau iuive had I'i ehildnMi, of whcuu 9 are living, viz: Wm. I).,
Melissa J., John F., Robt. R., Geo. \\'asliington, Abraham Lincoln,
Gen. Grant, Chas. Sumner and Nellie R. He is a prominent farmer
and stock-raiser, and owns 240 acres of well improved land.
N. A. Renshaw; P. O., Table Grove; is the son of Johnson
Renshaw, who settled in Greene Co. in 1837, where he engaged in
in the ministry for 8 years in the Christian Church. Mr. N. A.
Renshaw was born in Greene Co. Feb. 4, 1841, reared on a farm,
and at the age of 26 began general merchandising in BluflP City,
Schuyler Co., in which he remained for 11 years, when he located
in Table Grove, entering into the drug and hardware business.
He also makes grain-buying a specialty. He carries a stock
of $2,500 in the store. Ships 100 cars of grain annually.
Shipped from July 25, 1879, to Oct. 10 of the same year, 70
cars of small grain. He was married, Oct. 11, 1869, to Isabelle
Gasaway, by whom he has 3 children, — Lollie, Charlie and Jennie.
Joseph Rinker, deceased, was born July 1, 1826, in Hampshire
Co., Va. He moved with his parents to Belmont Co., O., and in
the year 1850 removed to Fulton Co. He married Sarah J. Smith,
April 1, 1849, and they have had 3 boys and 1 girl, viz: Mary E.
(deceased), James A., Romeo S. and Isaac A. Mrs. Rinker was
born in Belmont Co., O., Jan. 8, 1832, and is the daughter of Hiram
and Caroline Smith. The fornu-r died Feb. 10, 1853, and the lat-
ter is now with her daughter. Mr. Rinker died Feb. 24, 1879. He
was a worthy member of the United Brethren Church of Astoria.
Jacob Ritfer, sec. 19; P. ()., Table Grove. Mr. Ritter's early
educational advantages were very limited, his father having settled
in A\^iyne Co., O., among the heavy timljcr and where there were
no schools. He obtained a good business education by hard study
and close attention to his books, at such odd spells as he would Hud
between the hours of labor and at night. He was born in Union
Co., Pa., Aug. 14, 1815, and was reared in the woods, learning all
about rolling logs, ])icking brush, etc. His father, Jacob Ritter,
was a native of Pennsylvania, an<l di(;d Sept. 8, 1847. His mother,
Magdalene (.Stump) Ritter, was also a native of Pennsylvania, and
died Feb. 15, 1833. Our subject came to this county in 1837, and
located in Canton, where he worked at his trade, which is that of
house-joiner and cabinet-maker. He pursued this business until
1842, when he came to this township. He has since that time been
engaged in farming, and growing and feeding stock, in which he
has been eminently successful. When he began business for him-
G70 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
self he had five francs and a Mexican dollar. He now can estimate
his |)r()])erty by tlio thousands, besides givintr a farm to each ciiild.
There still remains standing in Lewistown a house that Mr. Hitter
erected for Joel Solomon in the year 1840 or '41. Mr. R. was mar-
ried, Sept. 16, 1889, to iSIatilda R. Opp, by whom he had 3 chil-
dren : Mary J. and Hiram are living. Mrs, liitter died Jan. 10,
18.")0. He again married Aug. 25, 1850, this time to Margaret
Harris; they have had 5 chiklren, of whom but one is living, —
Martha A.
John C. Ross, sec. 19; P. O., Table Grove; was born in Alex-
andria Co., Ya. (then part of D. C), Jan. 20, 1819. He there re-
ceived an education under the instruction of Prof Benjamin Hal-
lowell. His life has been varied. His parents, David and Marv
Ross, removed with their sou to Buckland Mills, Va., near the spot
where the battle of Bull Run was fought. This was in 1820. Thev
remained here until 1823, when they Avent to a farm in Fau((uier
Co., Va. ; thence to Occoquan, Ya., in 1825 ; thence back to Alexan-
dria in 1828. In 1835 he engaged as a clerk with Hopkins & Hull,
dry-goods merchants, of Baltimore, in which business he remained
18 months, when he went to Cooper Co., Mo., where he engaged in
farming and school-teaching for 3 years; in 1840 he came to Farm-
ers' township, this county, where he still resides. He is known as
one of Fulton county's prominent corn and wheat producers. He
was married A})ril 3, 1850, to Sarah A. Bartholomew, by whom he
had 8 children ; 5 of these are living, viz: Katie P., David, Jack,
Hattie X. and Charles. Mrs. Ross died Dec. 24, 1870. He again
married March 12, 1874, this time to Mary (Miller) Bartholomew,
She, being a widow when he married her, had 4 children, viz : Hattie,
Frank, Horace and Aaron Bartholomew.
./- R. liofhman, son of John and Frances Rothman, was born in
in the city of New York, July 11, 1847. He came into this State
with his parents when only 2 years old, and has resided here almost
ever since. At the age of 17 he enlisted in the late war as a private
in Co. S, 83d III. Inf ; was afterward transferred to Co. I of the
(jlst 111. Inf., from which he was mustered out at Nashville, Tenn.;
was educated at Abingdon College, where he attained a high record ;
graduated in Bryant cV: Stratton's course of bookkeeping; clerked
for Dr. S. D. Pollock, of Abingdon, two years, in drugs and books;
afterwards clerked •'> years f(»r Terry cV: Son in their clothing depart-
ment. After the dissohition of this firm Mr. R. opened out trade at
his own expense at Table Grove, ISIarch 17, 1873 ; three years after-
ward he commenced the study of law; in June, 1874, he was com-
missioned Notarv Public bv (Jov. Beverid":e, and in '78 re-com-
missioned by Gov. Culh)in. In the spring of '77 was elected Justice
of the Peace, in which capacity he has given the utmost satisfaction
to all having Inisiuess with him. He was married Oct. 7, 1875, to
Miss Fannie Winans, daughter of the well-known Lewis Winans,
deceased, of Yermont, 111. Stella, three years old, is their daughter.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 671
Mr. R. has a nice little office on the south side of the Square, and
does a successful business.
George B>(flc(h/c; P. C, Tabic Grove; res. sec. 4, Fanners' tp.
His father, William R. Rutlcdge, was born in Greenbrier Co., A^a.,
and came to this eounty in 1887, and rented a log school-house in
which he resided one year. He afterward settled on sec. 7, where
he resided over 20 years. Our subject was also born in Greenbrier
Co., Va., in 1830. He was "raised" to hard labor, such as chop-
ping, mauling rails, grul)bing, picking brush, etc. He has stood in
the door-yard and counted 25 deer at one time. The wolves,
chickens, wild hogs, etc., were very numerous. He was in every
particular a robust, pioneer boy, but had little opportunity for book-
learning. He is now a ])rominent farmer of Farmers' township.
He was married, March 19, 1857, to Sarah A. Ray, by whom he
has had 5 children : 4 are living, viz : Robert M., Wm. L., Hannah
E. and John A. He was again married, Nov. 16, 1871, this time
to Mary S. Monroe.
John Smith; P. ()., Table Grove. Our subject is a veteran of 111. ;
we do not say an early settler, for he was born in St. Clair Co., Til.,
Mar. 3, 1814. At the time of the war of 1812 his parents, Philij)
and Susan (Penn) Smith, were iu the fort. Mr. Smith when a boy
had the Indian boys for playmates. His jwrents removed to Sanga-
mon Co. when he was (juite small, where he received a limited edu-
cation in a log school-house, with a fire-place in each end, and a
crack in the wall with a ])ane of glass in it for a window; a portion
of this window, however, consisted of greased paper pasted over the
crack in the wall. Mr. Smith was intimately acquainted witli
Abraham Lin(^oln, and saw him work on a fiat-bottom boat on San-
gamon river. He also heard Mr. Lincoln make one of his first
political speeches, when he was a (umdidate for the I^egislature
against the late I'eter Cartwright. Mr. S. was an intimate friend of
Mr. Cartwright, and heard him preach many a sermon. He settled
in McDonough Co. in Aug., 1837; was a leading farmer for nearly
40 years in that county, when in March, 1877, he located in Table
Grove, 111., where he lives in comfortable circumstances. He was
married, March 1, 1835, to Jane Hargis, by w'hom he had 11 chil-
dren, and all are living. He was a soldier in the Mormon war.
Has been a member of the M. E. Church for over 40 years.
/. W. Sfephem was born in Montgomery Co., Ky., Mar. 11, 1841 ;
educated in Kv., in a log school-house ; also attended school 2 years
in 111.; came to McDonough Co. in 1861, and to this Co. in 1876,
locating in Table Grove, where he engaged in the fresh-meat and
grocery business. He was married, Sept. 6, 1872, to Clara Yocum,
by whom he had 3 children; she died in Dec, 1874, leaving many
friends to mourn her loss. Mr. Stephens again married in Aug.,
1876, this time to Jennie Johnson, daughter of Geo. Johnson of
Hancock Co. ^Ir. Stephens' father, Jacob Stephens, was murdered
in Ky. during the late war.
672 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Curtis Strode, sec. 23, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Bernadotte ; was born
April (), 1850, in this county, son of Thomas Strode, of Farmers'
tp., whom we mention further on. Mr. StnKle was educated in the
common schools, and reared on a farm. He is now a farmer and
stock-raiser in good circumstances in this township, and owns 100
acres of land. He was married, Sept. 28, 1870, to Alice A. Over-
ton, daughter of Francis L, Overton, of Bernadotte tp., who came
to Fulton county about the year 1835. They had one little girl,
Emma, who died Feb. 2, 1878. Mrs. Strode's mother (then "Mrs.
Wilcox) came to this county with her husband in 1834.
James P. Strode, sec. 25, Farmers' tp. ; P. ()., Bernadotte. In
1835, James Strode, sr., loaded his family and effects in a four-
horse wagon in Freeport, Harrison Co., O., and came and
settled on sec. 25, this township. His father, Richard Strode,
was a Captain in the Revolutionary war. He improved 160 acres
of land, and endured many hardships and })rivations in assisting to
pave the way for the })rosperity of the future generations. He
died in Jan., 1871, respected by all who knew him. Our subject
was born June 9, 183(3, in this township ; he received an academical
education, was reared on a farm, and is now engaged in general
farming on the old home place. He was in "bleeding Kansas" in
1857, and also served 3 years in the late war in Co. G, 50th 111.
V. I., and was promoted to 2d Lieutenant. He particii)ated in the
battles of Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth Oct. 3 and 4, 1863,
Resaca, Rome Cross Roads and others, and was discharged Sept. 1,
1864. He was married, Oct. 28, 1865, to Hannah Clemans, daugh-
ter of Samuel Clemans, an early settler in Farmers' tp. They have
3 children, viz : Imogene, Edmund C. and Robert.
Thomas Strode, sec. 23, Farmers' tp. ; P. O., Bernadotte ; was
born near Philadelphia in 1814, and is the son of James Strode,
who settled in this county in 1835, and of whom we speak further
in the last sketch. He was reared on a farm, and knows all
about working in the brush, etc. ; what little schooling he received
was in a little log cabin with a rail for a seat. He has labored hard,
used economy, and now possesses 320 acres of well improved land;
he has also given each of his 4 married children a farm. He has
never had a lawsuit, never paid any costs, and never had a fight in
his life, nor does he owe any man a dollar. Few men can say as
much. He has contributed largely to tlu' support of churches, the
preaching of the (jIosi)cI and other charitai)le enterprises. He takes
newspapers constantly, and hence is well versed in the political
issues of the day. He is a Republican, but he patronizes the papers
of the three leading i)olitical jiarties. He was married, Oct. 4,
1842, to Catharine Smith, by whom he had 6 children; of these 5
arc living, viz: Albert H., William S., Curtis J., Melinda A. and
Jesse. Mrs. Strode died July 3, 1857. Mr. Strode married again
in May, 1858, this time Sarah Sexton. She was born in Lewis Co.,
Ky., Jan. 7, 1817.
HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY. 673
Enos Tarter, farmer and horticulturist, was born in Clay Co., 111.,
Jan. 31, 1832, son of Frederick, a native of Va., who emigrated to
this Territory in an early day, married Christina Whitly, also a
Yirginian ; and tlicir offsiiring were 7 boys and 4 girls, Enos being
the 4th child. Mr. Fred. Tarter was a soldier in the Black Hawk
war under Gen. Atkinson ; was in the fort at Canton, and was one
of the company that captured Black Hawk. He died Oct. 17,
1869, in Marit)!! Co., Iowa, where he had resided about 4 years.
Four of the sons were in the late war, enlisting in Missouri, and all
returned unhurt. John was Captain of a company of Missouri
cavalry, and Fred., who now resides in Ipava, participated in. every
battle' fought in Missouri. P^nos, Oct. 20, 1851, married Sarah
Hoyle, sister of John and Lawrence Hoyle, two prominent citizens
of this tp. They have had 9 children, of whom 8 are living, viz:
Peter S., Mary P., Abbie A., Ida M., Sarah, Lovina, Lydia A. and
Harry E. The deceased child's name was Frocinia. Mr. Tarter's
horticultural business is extensive. This year he ship])ed more
strawberries than any other man in the county. His apples took
the premium at the Macomb fairs of the years 1877-8. Has also a
good nursery. Practices law to some extent. P. O., Bernadotte ;
res., sec. 11.
P. S. Tarter, sr., was born in Washington Co., Ind., Dec. 18,
1827, and is the son of Frederick M. Tarter, a pioneer of Fulton
county, and who was born Jan. 22, 1800, near Richmond, Va. His
father, Peter Tarter, served in the Revolution under Washington
for 7 years, having enlisted when but 16 years old. During this
time he lost an eye. He became a pioneer of Ky. on the Cumber-
land river, in what afterwards became Pulaski Co. He also fought
through the Indian wars of Kentucky, and was an intimate friend
of Daniel Boone. While engaged in the last Indian warof Ky. he
lost his other eve, and was blind for 30 years previous to his death.
Frederick Tarter settled in Clay Co.," 111., in 1829, and in this
county in 1834. Mr. and Mrs. Tarter lived to see all their children
grown and settled in life, a very rare incident indeed. Our subject,
Peter S. Tarter, sr., is a prominent farmer and breeder of fine stock
in Farmers' townshi)), and owns about 600 acres of land in this
county, besides large tracts of land in Texas and Missouri. He is
a successful attorney at law, which profession he has not had the time
to attend to for the past few years.
Peter S. Tarfer,jr., was born in Fulton county, Oct. 17, 1853, the
son of Enos Tarter, of Farmers' t]). His grandfather, Frederick
Tarter, was one of the pioneers of Fulton county ; was educated in
Abingdon College, and is a j)rominent teacher of Western Fulton;
is at present teaching in the Hickory Grove school-house. Farmers'
tp. He married Harriet O. Rine, daughter of Isaac Rine, of
Farmers' tp.
Charles L. T'/ioimon; P. O., Adair, McDonough Co.; residence,
sec. 18, Farmers' tp. This man was born in Augusta Co., Va.,
674 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
March 10, 1831. His father, Matthew Thompson, was born in Va.,
where he engaged in tarniing for several years. He came to Fulton
county in 1837, bringing his family and all his earthlv possessions
with him. He was a soldier in the war of 1812, and died in 1844.
Our subject received his education in an old log house, Mith slab
benches, and a fire-place nearly the entire width of the house. He
is now a farmer in comfortable circumstances and owns three differ-
ent tracts of land. He was married Sept. 20, 1858, to Lucinda
Feagans, by whom he had 10 children: 9 are living, viz : Wm.,
Emzey B., Warren, Samuel, Etfa, Abner, Eraeline and E valine,
twins, and Fllla.
Daniel Wnltcrs j P. O., Ipava ; sec. 36. AVilliam Walters in 1S22
loaded his wife and two children into a keel-boat in Alabama, and
made his way to Illinois by way of the rivers, and landed in Sanga-
mon Co., where he remained one year, and then removed to Fulton
Co. We frequently speak of old settlers being well known in the
early history of this county, but Mr. W. was known nearly all over
the State, and none knew him but to love him. \\'hen he first
landed in 111. he had one bed (straw), a rifle, and 25 cents in monev.
The first horse he owned he mauled rails to pay for, and this ponv
was killed by over-riding by a negro who took it without the
knowledge of Mr. Walters. Before his death his property was
valued at §10,000. He was a very strong man both mentally and
physically. He was born in May, 1788, in Jefferson Co., Tenn.;
was a soldier in the war of 1812, serving under Gen. Jackson ; and
consequently was a pensioner up to his death, which occurred Sept.
16, 1877. He also fought in the Black Hawk war. Our subject,
Daniel Walters, was born in Bernadotte tp., Oct. 14, 1827, and ex-
cept 4 years has always resided in Fulton county. He has ridden
over the prairies when there was not a spear of grass amiss. The
first school he attended was when he was 13 years old, in a round-
log house, fully described elsewhere in this volume. His father had
ten children, our subject being the 6th. He was married, April 5,
1850, to Sarah H. Dobbins, by whom he had 9 children. Mrs.
Walters died March 17, 1874. Mr. Walters again married, March
12, 1876, Mary A. Carrison, a sister of Robert Carrison of this tp.
As before stated, he is the father of 9 children, 2 boys and 7 girls,
viz: Charles H., Jane A., Ellen E., James E., ^I. Cornelia, Louisa
H., Laura \ ., Sarah E. and M. Ida.
Hiram Waitcrti was born in Sangamon Co., 111., Jan. 23, 1825,
son of Wm. Walters, and was brought here liy his parents when
but 3 weeks old. At that time there were but 12 men in the count v
over 21 years of age, including himself. He resided on the Gus
Stewart farm near Lewistown for 10 years, when he settled in
Farmers' tp. Here he erected a double log barn, and to procure
hands to raise this barn he actually went to Canton and Copperas
creek. He mauled rails all day for a half l)ushel of cc>rn. carried it
to the mill on his back, and there paid 10 cents for grinding on a
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 075
liorsp mill. He was a great hunter, always keeping his family sup-
l)lie(l with Iresh meat from tiie forests. He was eaptain of the little
band of 12 settlers who routed a band of the Pottawatomie and
Cherokee Indians, for plundering, and for abusing the white women,
during the pioneer days of Fulton eounty. He died, Sept. 23, '77,
loved and respected by all \vh(^ knew him. Our sul))eet was mar-
ried, April 2:3, 184G, to Mary A. Hoyle, by whom he had 8 chil-
dren : of these 5 aro living, viz : Geo. Washington, Andrew Jackson,
Olive, Cora Ann and Eva. Olive is married to Franklin Waid, a
school-teacher of Birdol])h, 111. George AV. and Andrew J. are
both married, and are also I'armers.
John WaUcrx deceased, was born in East Tennessee, Oct. 13, 1810,
and was reared on a farm. He was one of the pioneers of Fulton
county, having settled here in 1829. He was energetic in improving
the country, and thus lending a hel])ing hand to the progress of
civilization. He was married in 183(J to Freelove Whitley, by whom
he had l."> children; 8 are living, viz : Martha, Wm., Eli, Peter,
Thomas, Bailey, Isaac and Lydia. Mr. Walters died Oct. 14, 1850.
His son Eli J. resides with his mother on the old home place.
Thomas J. ]V<(lferf^, \yi\>< born in Sangamon Co., 111., near Sugar
Grove, June 12, 1820, and is the son of Wm. and I^lizabeth Walters,
deceased. His father, a soldier of 1812, under Gen. Jackson, settled
in Sangamon Co. the same year. The Indians were their nearest
neighl)ors, and in fact were very good neighbors. Mr. Walters
(\\'m.) was in the Black Hawk war under Gen. Stillman, and was
at his defeat. He related a laughable incident occurring at that battle :
After the battle was over he found one Mr. with his head and
upi)er j)art of his trunk in a tlour barrel, while his hind (juarters
h)omed up exposed to the fire of the enemy and to the laughing
gaze of the soldiers. This man's sons are still living in this county.
Mr. Walters died Sept. 19, 1877. Our subject was brought by his
father to Fulton Co. in 1821, to Pleasant tp., where they remained
until 1830, when they settled in Farmers' tp. on section 9. When
((uite small he had no other playmates than the Indian boys, for
whom he had as much respect as if they were white boys. He was
married Aug. (J, 1840, to Jane McCaughey, by whom he had 8
children ; 7 are living. Their names are, Wm. H. H., Milton,
Elizabeth »!., Josej)hine, Franklin P., INIortimer and Sarah E.
Will. (t. Wfdfcrs, sec. 5 ; P. ()., Table Grove ; was born and raised
in this township, where he now resides, a prominent farmer and
stock-raiser in this part of the county. He was born Aug. 8, 1838,
and was raised a farmer's boy. His educational advantages were
very limited, as his father died when he was but 12 years old, leaving
a family of 13 children; our subject l)eing the eldest. His grand-
father, Absalom Walters, settled in this township in 1<S29, and
endured the hardships and privations that early settlers are heir to.
Our sidojeet was married Aug. 20, 1862, to Ellen Garrison, daughter
of Robert Garrison, of Farmers' tp. They have 7 children, viz:
676 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Mary E., Alice F., P^mnia C, Wni. A., Lydia and Ann (twins) and
Marion F. His father, John A., was born in Alabama, and came
with his father, Absalom, to this county. Mr. W'm. G. Walters
served in Co. F, 103d I. V. I., in the late war and participated in
the battles at Vicksburg, Jackson, Mission Ridge, Resaca, Dallas,
Kenesaw Mountain, Atlanta, and others, and was with Sherman
on his noted march to the sea. He was discharged July 7, 1865.
George Wisler, sec. 17; P. O., Table Grove. His father, Henry
"NVisler, settled in Oiiio in 1806, when George was a little boy, giv-
ing him all the opportunities necessary for developing his muscular
power. He purchased 1,120 acres of timber land in Pickaway Co.,
O., where our subject lived until Sept., 1851, when he came to Ful-
ton county, settling on sec. 17, Farmers' township, where he still
resides, a prominent farmer. Xo man has performed more physical
labor in his day than has Mr. Wisler. He made a good farm in
Ohio in the timber, hence he knows all about log-rolling and pull-
ing dogwoods, etc. These jolly old fellows had their fun as well
as hard labor. He was invariably chosen captain of one of the con-
tending parties at the log-rollings and eorn-huskings. Mr. Wisler
was married in 1823 to Sally Throckmorton, by whom he had 8
children: of these 5 are living. Mrs. Wisler died July 10, 1834.
He again married in 1835, this time to Maria Bunn, by whom he
has one child. His second wife died in 1868.
Theodore Wright, merchant, Table Grove ; is a native of this
county. His father, Granville Wright, one of the pioneers of Ver-
mont township, came to Illinois in Sept., 1836, and settled on sec. 8
in that townshij) ; he is a prominent farmer and stock-raiser. He
is the father of 5 children, of whom our subject is second. Mr.
Wright was educated in Abingdon College, and after leaving in
June, 1871, he engaged in the hardware business in Table Grove,
which he still continues ; in the meantime he has added a full line
of drugs and groceries, carrying in all a stock of :?4,000. He has
been very successful in the business. He was appointed Postmaster
in 1871, in which capacity he still remains. He was married, Oct.
29, 1875, to Miss Ida B. Raby, daughter of Simon Raby, of Pen-
nington's Point, Til. They have 2 children, viz : Nellie and Clar-
ence A.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a full and complete list of the Supervisors,
Clerks, Assessors and Collectors serving in this township since its
organization :
SUPERVISORS.
J. H. Kinne 1850 .T. L. Eppersoi/. 186&-70
N. W. Perrv 1851 Henrv Smither 1871-72
John Price." 1852-54 T. L. Frazier 1873-76
Asaph Perrv 1855-50 .Joseph Barker 1877-78
J. H. Kinne 1860-66 Welford Bover 1879
Asaph Perry 1867
HISTORY OF P^ULTON COUNTY
/> ^ Nif
TOWN CLKRKS.
John C.Ross 1S.10
Abrani Jarvis ISol
James MK'all 1S.V2
J. S. Rees l.S53-5fi
Jaioh Bossort lS57-()i)
Chas. V. Ilaskin 1870-72
William Carithers 1873
Tlu'oilore Wright 1874
S. W. Durham 1875-77
LaFavotte Barker 1878
S. VV* Durham 1879
ASSESSORS.
Frank Andrews 1850
John A. Harlwnd 1851
James MrCall 1852-53
J. II. Kinne 1854
A. Perry 18.55
J. H. Kinne J8.5(i-57
J. C. Ross lf;58-59
Jaeob Bossort 18(50
Joseph Barker 1861-62
Jacob Bossort 18(53
A. McCaley 1864
A. Aberna'thy 1865-71
Samuel Wisler 1872
Addison Abernathv 1873
J. V. Strode ' 1874
Addison Abernathv 1875
Rol)ert Bailev •" 1876
Eli Walter 1877
William Hammond 1878
James P. Strode 1879
COLLECTORS.
W. A. Perry 1850-51
Robert Andrews 1852
J. H. Kinne 1853-54
D. A. Connell 1S55
James Barker 1856-58
J. H. Kinne 1859
Enos Tarter 1800
Jacob Bossort 1861
John W. Barker 1862-63
Stephen Carlin 1864
Nelson Wheedon 1865
Elisha Lindsey 1866
Samuel Stewart 1867
Warren Baker 1868
Thomas ("arlin 1869
G. D. Casev 1870
Eli J.Walters 1871
Samuel Baughman 1872
Ro])ert Bailev 1873
Wilson M(d)aniels 1874-75
Samuel Wisler 1876
C. E. Barker 1877
James Colville 1878
George R. Barker 1879
FARMINGTON TOWNSHIP.
This beautiful township will compare favorably with any tract of
land six miles square in the Northwest. Sunshine and dew never
fell u]K)n a fairer land. It is under the best of cultivation, and the
farms are unsurpassed in point of modern improvements and an
advanced and perfect state of cultivation. Jonah Marchant, with
his wife and four children, was the first that lived tln'ough a winter
in this township. Mr. Marchant came in October, 1827, and passed
the followinsj: winter in a small cabin 12x14 feet in size. He knew,
this was a fair land and concluded to remain here. Accordingly he
set about in the spring to build a more pretentious dwelling. He
erected a hewn-log cabin. In this he lived for seven years.
Seth Littler, a brother-in-law of the Marchants, lived in the
township a few months in the spring and summer of the year 1827.
He then left in company with some of his relatives for the Galena
lead mines, which just at that time were causing such excitement.
Mr. Littler, however, returned the same year and located near Can-
ton, which at that time was a very small beginning for a town. He
died that fall about the time Jonah Marchant settled in Farming-
ton. The creek that heads south of Farmington was named in
honor of Mr. Littler.
In the spring of 1828 Charles and Theodore Sargeant, the gen-
tlemen so often spoken about in the first chapter of this book,
located in this township. The former settled upon the southeast
quarter of sec. 12. He remained here a few years, when he moved
upon the land he received as bounty land for his services in the war
of 1812. He is living yet, so far as we can learn. Theodore Sar-
geant settled the place where Kidder brothers now live, on the
southeast quarter of sec. 2. Some years later he settled what was
known as the Mound Quarter, being the southeast quarter of sec.
1, where he lived until he died, which 0(!curred suddenly July lo,
1871. He was 76 years of age at the time; was a member of the
M. E. Church and a man highly respected.
Abraham Marchant was the next pioneer to venture so far from
civilization. He arrived June 27, 1828, and had to build a small
house, one suitable for a smoke-house, before he could have a place
to unload his goods from the wagon. He built a better cabin in
the fall of the same year, in which he lived until 1835, when he and
his brother Jonah each erected a one-story brick dwelling upon the
northwest quarter of sec. 13. This property, with several other
'^t^i^e-e^-
■f
«Sjt(i"Tj'
M':
%
OCi^J^
FARMINGTON TP
LlbHAKY
OF THE
UMVEHSITY Of ILLINOIS.
HISTOIIV OF FULTON COUNTY. 681
pieces of land they owned, has passed into other hands. This was
called the Marchant settlement for many years, until it was super-
ceded bv the village of Farmington, which Avas started in the year
1830 or*1837.
Among other prominent first settlers were Ahira Jones, who
settled upon the first section of the township — on the N. E. i of
sec. 1 — in 1829. Mr. Abraham ISIarehant tells us that he helped
him to raise his cabin on Saturday, and upon Sunday they i)ut the
clapboard roof on. He lived in this rude cabin for several years
and then built a good hewed-log house, and during the decade be-
tween 1850 and 1860 he erected a brick dwelling, in which he lived
until his death. That occurred in 1874.
Of those early pilgrims who came into the township prior to
to 1840 many are dead, some have moved to other parts of the
country and a few still reside here. Among these now called to
mind are A. G. Gridley, Spencer Cone, J. N. Harkin, Israel Scales,
Furman Brown, now 88 years old, M. B. Chapin, who died in 1872,
James Armstrong, died in l.S71>, John T. Dunn, Henry Cone, Luther
Birge, 83 years old, Daniel Tanner, Russell Stone, died in 1872,
Joel Brown, who came to this county with his father in 1824, Seth
Bristol, died in 1877, Daniel Brohard, died in 1879, Abines AVhite,
died in 1879, A. G. Pinegar, and a few others of the old settlers
who are yet upon the stage of action.
Abraliam Marchant, son of Jonah Marchant, was the first white
child born in the township. He is at present fifty years old. The
first sermon was delivered by Rev. Asa D. West, a local M. E.
preacher, in Jonah Marchant's cabin in 1828. In 1832 or 1833 the
first school-house was built in the center of what is now the city of
Farmington. The first school was taught by Isaac Cutter in one of
Ahiras Jones's cabins.
FARMINGTON.
This is one of the most beautifully situated towns throughout this
part of the State. It is built upon an eminence which overlooks
one of the most fertile sections of the Northwest. A better site
could not have been selected, even in this fair country. Farmington
was laid out by Joseph Cone, George W. Little and Hiram Palmer,
Oct. 9, 1834, u])on section 1. Mr. Cone came to the township in
1833 and settled ui)on the southwest quarter of section 1. He first
lived in a log cabin which had l)een erected upon this place some
time before. In 1836 he erected a house upon the same site, which
has withstood the storms of many winters. Mr. Cone was a liberal,
enterprising and highly esteemed citizen. He and his wife were
members of the first Church organized in Farmington, which was
the Congregational Churcii. When they first settled here Indians
often visited them at their cabin home and wild animals were nu-
merous. Mr. Little still lives where he erected his first residence in
the infant village. He was a merchant and opened the first dry-
41
682 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
goods store in the town, and was also the first Postmaster, Mr. Hea-
ton was the next one to come in with a stock of goods. He is still
living here, and has as great love for a good gun as when wild
animals and game were abundant, although he does not hunt so
much as in former vears.
The town grew rapidly for a time, when it suffered like most
places, on account of not being on the first railroad in this
section, and for some years was at a stand-still. The class of resi-
dents indicate a wealthy and cultured people. The fine church edi-
fices, than which no town of its si;ce can boast of better, shows the
community to be religious, devotional and liberal in sentiment. The
may;nificent school buildiu"- which stands in the citv is a sure index
to the interest the people take in educational matters. This is a
large three-story brick structure, surmounted by a well-i)r()]H)rtioned
belfry, and was erected in 186G. It is suppled with all of the mod-
ern school conveniences and helps, and an efficient corps of instruct-
ors are training the young.
Many additions have been made to the town since its was first
platted. East of the original town are Cone's addition and
Henry Cone's addition. In the former is located a beautiful com-
mon, which is an attractive feature of the town. Upon the north
is the Palmer & Cone addition. Upon the west are Cone's, Little's,
Smith's land Gregory's additions, Palmer's first, second, third addi-
tions. South of the south line of the original town are Collins' ad-
dition, Ciiapman & Reed's addition. Nelson's addition, Fawcett's
addition and Brown's sub-division. In Chapman & Reed's addi-
tion is located the school-house square.
One of the most exciting periods of the history of the town was
the time when the women of the place made war upon the saloons.
The whisky war, as we will term it, was an event which at the time
caused so great excitement (and is one of the important items in the
history of the i)lace) that we will recount it :
For somctiuie previous the town had been infested with a number
of drinking saloons. A number of the wives of the unfortunate men
who spent their hard-earned cash and were made crazy at the places,
had from time to time waited upon all the grocery-keepers and re-
(juested them to desist from selling their husbands licpior. Their
re<|uests were unheeded, and in some instances they were treated with
ouli-ageous contempt. This state of aftairs aroused the ladies of the
town to concerted action to free the community of these resorts.
They held several meetings, and vSaturday, March 15, 1856, about
19 of the respectable ladies of the town marched into the streets
armed with axes, hoes, clubs, etc. They were amply protected by
about a hundred men and boys. It is said to have been a grand
sight to see this determined band filing down the street. The first
saloon attacked suttercd the worst. The window was demolished ; the
decanters swept from the shelves; all the barrels containing liquor
were burst open and their contents spilled upon the floor. A num-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. G83
ber of barrels were branded " cider vinegar," and they also suiFered,
for it was feared they too contained liquor.
One of the grocerv-kee])ers, after witnessing in silence the destruc-
tion i)f his pro])erty, as soon as the work was completed jumped u]ion
the counter and proposed three cheers to the ladies, to which the
crowd heartily responded. After this he made a speech in which he
frankly acquitted the ladies of all blame and pledged his honor as a
man never to deal in the destructive fluid again. Another of the saloon-
keepers asked the brave lady Captain during the excitement if she
was not afraid. She replied, " No, sir ; I am not afraid of any man
who ever walked God's earth, — much less a contemptible doggery-
keeper." This short, pointed speech, coming from a resolute woman,
quieted the gentleman. After having accomplished their object the
ladies retired to their respective homes and soon quiet was restored
in the town. One or two of the saloon-keepers counseled a lawyer
for the purpose of prosecuting these daring females. He was ad-
vised to ''let the women alone."
As biographical sketches of old residents and leading citizens
will best constitute the rest of the history of the township, we pro-
ceed now to give them.
John Abbott, farmer, sec. 8; P.O., Farmington. The subject of
this sketch was born in Indiana, Jan. 10, 1835; is the son of Alex,
and Nancy (Doty) of Ohio. John Abbott came to this county in
1845. He had but a limited advantage to obtain an education,
never having attended school here. He owns 320 acres of land, all
of which he has made by his own efforts during the last 23 years.
He was married to IMargaret Barklcy in 1854, who bore him 7 chil-
dren,— 3 boys and 4 girls, all of whom are living.
John Berdine, farmer, was born in New Jersey, March 7, 1831,
where also his father was born, but his mother was a native of
Pennsylvania. H(> sold his farm of 160 acres and bought the
Farmers' Mills and Elevator in Farmington, and at present deals
largely in grain. He has been School Director and Assessor, in
Peoria county. Democrat. In 1854 he married Mary J. Wilson,
and they have two boys and two girls. The boys are working in
the mill.
Luther Birge was born in l^itchficld Co., Ct., Oct. 28, 1797, the
son of Simeon and Elizabeth (Hamblin) Birge ; Nov. 5, at midnight,
1836, he landed at Copperas Creek; has lived here in Farmington
42 years ; has kept an undcrgronnd railroad depot, sonu^times
painting the darkies to disguise them ; three different times his name
was given to the grand jury for indictment, but they never found a
bill. He owns valuable land within the city limits.
Selden Bond, farmer, was born Nov. 9, 1813, in Ohio; came to
this county in 1835; has worked 25 years at blacksmithing; finan-
cially he has been successful. In 1834 he married Maria Kady,
and they have had five children, 4 of whom are living. Democrat.
Ileal Bra ten, farmer, was born in New York in 1794, son of
684 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Daniel and Catherine Brown ; in 1825 he married Catherine Loomis ;
was meniher ot'tlie State Militia, belonging to Artillery Company at
Malta, Washington Co., X. Y, ; in 1847, emigrated to Farmington ;
has had 4 boys and 3 girls; only two are Hying now; wife died in
Sept., 1872. Presbyterian. Republican. Mr. B. owns 160 acres
of land in Henry Co.
T. J. Bi(i'bridf/c was born in Ohio, Feb. 27, 1836, son of Thomas
and Elizabeth (Pollon) ; his fother was a salt-manufacturer, a
natiye of Kentucky, and his mother of Virginia; family emigrated
to Fulton Co. in 1847 ; T. J. has spent most of his life in the coal
business, commencing in Ohio when but 9 years old ; has mined at
Yates City, Cuba, Ciyer, etc. ; farmed a little while ; had poor luck
at Peoria; ran a saloon awhile in Farmington, but is now a zealous
temperance man and is entertaining as a temperance speaker. He
attributes his reform to the efforts of his wife, of Mrs. Russell and of
others in Farmington. He is now in the coal business.
William Caldwell was born in Mercer Co., Penn., Oct. 8, 1806,
the son of Samuel and Elizabeth (Donaldson) Caldwell, the former
a native of Ireland and the latter of Pennsylvania; in 1855 the
subject of this sketch emigrated to Farmington; has been farmer,
cabinet-maker and merchant ; in tliQjatter capacity he suffered great
loss in the financial panic of 1857 ; for 18 years he has also been in
the insurance business, and for the last 15 years has been Postmaster ;
has also been School Trustee, Collector, Justice of the Peace and
Police Magistrate. Republican,
Emer.'ton Clark was born in Massachusetts June 8, 1847, son of
Elisha V. and Mehetabel (Thayers), natives of the same State;
educated in high schools; came to Farmington in 1866; has fol-
lowed the butcher business most of his life ; his father has followed
this trade since 1840, and they together have conducted a shop here
since 1866, and in this time 13 other shops have been started here;
but Mr. Clark has the most custom and the others generally quit
after awhile. March 10, 1872, Mr. Emerson C'lark married Emma
F. Wait, and Bessie W. is their only child. Mr. C. is a Freema-
son and a Democrat.
Henry Cone is an early settler here. He has sown wheat and
raised 40 bushels to the acre where the best part of Farmington now
stands. He was born Sept. 17, 1809, the son of Joseph and Eliza-
beth (Candee), natives of Connecticut ; he came to Fulton county
in 1833 and settled here in 1834. He now owns 800 acres, 300 iii
Fulton county ; is a successful farmer. Has helped Farmington
very perceptibly. He gave §2,000 for the first railroad to the place,
and something toward the jiroposed narrow-gauge railroad. He has
been married twice, and has 6 children living. Congregatioualist.
Republican. Never had a lawsuit.
Spencer Cone was born in Litchfield, Ct., Sept. 21, 1814, the son
of Joseph and Elizal)eth (Candee) Cone; educated in the high
schools of Connecticut ; by occupation a farmer; studied law and
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 685
was admitted to the Bar of the State and also to that
of the United States; practiced five years in Wisconsin;
came to this county in the spring of 1834; has been School Trustee,
Director, Justice of the Peace, etc. ; is Surveyor now. In March,
183{), he was married, and his children are Joseph, Spencer, Eliza-
beth and Wm. B. Mr. Cone has been a member of the Congrega-
tional Church for 50 years ; has been Deacon, Elder, etc. In
politics he is a Republican.
J. E. Deuel, farmer, was born Nov. 10, 1816, in New York State,
son of Philip and Sarah (Babcock), natives of Connecticut; came
to Farmington in 1837; learned the cooper's trade, but is now a
farmer, owning 180 acres of land. Democrat. Has been School
Director, Road Commissioner, Town Clerk and Mayor of Farming:-
ton two terms. Nov, 8, 1840, he married Clara A. Porter, daughter
of Col. Porter, and they have 2 boys and 2 girls.
/, T. Dickey, carpenter and joiner, was born in Pennsylvania,
Oct. 17, 1833, son of George and Margaret L. Dickey; he came to
Farmington June 17, 1864; was drafted in 1863, and paid the $300
commutation ; in 1859 he married Lydia E. McLaughlin, and they
have 2 boys and 2 girls. Mr. D. has followed his trade most of the
time since he was 19 years old. Democrat. Presbyterians. P. O.,
Farmington.
John T. Dunn, farmer, was born Oct. 12, 1816, son to David and
Rebecca (Marchant) Dunn, all of Virginia, and the father brought
up a Quaker, but afterward joined the M. E. Church. John T. was
educated in Ohio; in 1836 he settled where he still resides, worth
then but $75, but now has 168 acres of land, besides helping his
children. Has been School Director 15 years, Town Trustee and
Commissioner of Highways. In 1836 he married Elizabeth Bevers,
and their 9 children are all living. Mr. Dunn is a Republican ;
his wife belongs to the M. E. Church. P. O., Farmington.
Georc/e Fawccff, dairyman, was born in Schuyler Co., N. Y., Nov.
14, 1820 ; his father Richard was a native of Ireland, and his mother
Margaret Fawcett, nee Roberts, was born in Penn. Mr. F. began
to work at the carpenter trade when 18 years old and worked at it
for 20 years, when he with others started the Farmington Agricult-
ural Works, which ran successfully until destroyed by fire in 1870.
It was rebuilt the same year. Mr. F. came to thi.s county March
18, 1846, and Sept. 5, 1846, he was married to Lydia A. Sergeant,
who was born Dec. 6, 1828. They have 2 children : Rachel and
Theoore. In March, 1874, Mr. F. started a dairy and has con-
tinued in that business since, and at present milks 35 cows.
./. T. Fink, farmer, was born in Maryland, Sept. 24, 1830, son of
Solomon and Sarah (Bicxler?), natives of the same State; educated
in Ohio ; arrived in this county Nov. 2, 1846, and settled on sec. 14,
this tp., where he has resided ever since, owning 107 acres of land.
Jan. 27, 1853, he was married, has had 5 children, 4 of whom are
living. M. E. Church. Democrat. P. O., Famington.
6Sn HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Dv. M. T. Gamble was born in Beaver Co., Pa., Fob. 2, 1850, and
is the son of Andrew and Mary (Thompson) Gamble, farmers.
The Doctor attended an academy in Pa. and Winchester College
in that State for liis literary edncation. He attended the Missouri
jSIedical College and won a prize as a scholar. He catne to this
county in 1871 and to Canton in 1875, and practiced his profes-
sion here, enjoying a large and successful practice. In 1864 he en-
listed in the 17th Pa. Cav. and served until the close of the war.
T. S. Gcnfle, farmer, sec. 26, Farmington tj). ; born in Hamilton
Co., O., June 26, 1845, son to John and Louisa (Higdon), father from
Maryland and mother from Ohio; emigrated to Fulton Co. in 1855;
attended Lombard University at Galesburg ; owns 130 acres of farm
land ; is a Democrat ; has been School Director 4 years ; is also a
Freemason, and has been Master 3 years ; never used tobacco or
whisky. Sept. 6, 1876, he married Sallie Kessler: Annie May is
their only child.
John S. Green, farmer, was born June 19, 1821, in New York, son
of Joiin and Sally (Maxson), natives of the same State ; came to this
county in 1855, settling within 30 rods of where he now lives; he
owns 620 acres of land, well stocked, but he has seen hard times ; a
few years ago he was working for $10 and $12 a month. He is a
Repul)lican, and has been School Director and Road Overseer, but
he seeks to avoid office. In 1843 he marrit'(l Caroline Sanders, and
their children are 4 boys and 2 girls, all living. Seventh-Day Bap-
tists. P. O., Farmington.
Oiarles Greenlaif, dentist, was born Sept. 1, 1809, in Hartford,
Ct., the son of Charles and Electa (Taylor) G., natives of the same
State and town; in 1848 he emigrated to Farmington, in 1850 to
Peoria and in 1873 back to Farmington; has worked at dentistry
40 years; was employed by the Government 8 years; both his
father and grandfather were dentists ; his son is also a dentist, now
j)racticing in JVM)ria. July 4, 1833, Mr. (x. married Caroline B.
Wilson ; their four children are all boys; Mr. Greenleaf is a Repub-
lican, and he and his wife are Congregationalists. He has traveled
consideral)ly in his life-time; has been to Mexico.
John Harper, farmer, was born in Franklin Co., Penn., in 1817,
son of Michael and Nancy (Campbell), his lather a native of Ire-
land and his mother of Pennsylvania ; emigrated to this county in
1847, settling in Canton ; he now owns 540 acres of land. In 1840
he married Fk-anoi- Roberson, and th(>y liave 3 sons and 4 daughters.
Robert H., the eldest son, resides in Knox Co. He served 2 years
in the 11th 111. Cav. Four of the children are married. Episcopal
Methodists. Democrat.
Charles IF. lleafon, druggist, was born in Farmington, Nov.. 30,
1841, son of Morgan and Sarah A. (Fountain); his father was born
in Pennsylvania and his mother in New York; they emigrated to
this county in May, 1837; fiither is a gunsmith; Charles W. at
present is keeping store in Farmington; is a good actor in stage
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 687
plavs ; is now the hii;hcst officer of the I. O. O. F. in Illinois. In
18(32 he married Anna Bishop, and they have two boys. Mr. H. is
a Democrat.
a M. Hill. At Albany, N. Y., March 1, 1831, the snbject of
this sketch was born. His parents, William and Sarah (C'otton)
Hill, were from North Carolina. He is engaged in farming npon
sec. 27. He was united in marriage with Mary Ann Hulick in
1856. To them have been born a family of 12 children, — 6 boys
and 6 girls, all of whom are living. Mr. H. belongs to the
Reformed Church at Xorris.
E. M. Hill, farmer, was born in White Co., Tenn., July 20, 1814,
son of Wm. and Sarah (Cotton), "natives of the sunny South ; the
subject of this sketch was educated in Alabama ; came to Fulton Co.
in 1834; now owns 300 acres of land; July 26, 1831, he married
Eliz'ibeth McCarty, and they have had 6 sons and 4 daughters ; 9 of
these children are living. Mr. Hill has witnessed all the changes
this county has undergone from its native wildness to its present
high state of development. He was originally a Jackson D.'mocrat,
then a Froe-Soiler and now a R -publican, — all this, however, with-
out any change of princi[)les.
George Hunfer, farmer, was born in 18)6 in Ireland, son of
H.Miry and Miry (Gordon) ; emigrated to this country in 182(), and
to Fulton county in 183S; his followed weaving 10 years; and l)een
a railroad employe. He is now a succssful farmer. Is a pr;)mi-
nent Freemason and a Djmocrat. His wife is a Presbyterian.
P. O., Farmington.
./. MarxhuH Jack, grocer, etc., Farmington; born Sept. 27, 1855,
in Westmoreland Co., Penn., to Matthew and Mary (Marshall)
Jack; worked on his father's farm until 1877, when he commenced
business in Farmington. In 1878 he married AnnaPetrie; they
are Presbyterians, and he is a Republican. He was educated in the
common schools and at the Calesburg Business College. He is in
company with Mr. Petrie, and they deal in groceries, boots and
shoes, (jueensware, glass, etc.
Atharin Keeling was born in Hardin Co., Ky., May 12, 1823,
the son of Lewis and Lydia (Honey), natives of Kentucky ; in
1827 the family came to Illinois and in 1841 to Fulton Co.; the
subject of this sketch obtained his education in S[)ringlield, 111. ;
he followed brick and tile-making a number of years; from 1857
to 1860 he had a dry-goods and grocery store in Canton ; has been
Alderman several terms in Canton, Commissioner of Highways and
School Director; is a Republican. He married Marv C. \\'ilion
April 23, 1846, and now has 2 boys and 4 girls. H; resides in
Farmington and owns a 100-acre farm on sec. 2 near the city.
Alvan Kidder was born in Norfolk Co., Mass., Nov. 25, 1824, the
son of Alvan and Betsy (Mann) Kidder, the former a native of
Vermont and the latter of Massachusetts ; settled in Farmington,
111., in 1847, where he had a shoe-store until 1851 ; Oct. 24, 1852,
688 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
he married Lucy J- Ewalt, and they have 3 children, all living.
Mr. K. is a radical Democrat, and when he lectures on temperance
the house is alwavs crowded. Althouy-h his name' is Kid-der he
handles his subject without kid gloves.
JoJm A. Leeper, farmer, sec. 17, this t]) ; was born near Cincin-
nati, ()., Dec. 3, 1831, sou of Wm. and Eleanor (Lake) Leeper,
natives of Ohio; emigrated to Fulton county in 1840; educated in
the common schools and at Mount Morris Seminary, Ogle Co., 111. ;
has been School Director, School Trustee, Road Commissioner, and
for a number of years a Director of the Agricultural Society ; in
1877 he was elected State Senator from the 2oth District; was a
delegate to the first farmers' convention at Kewanec, and to the
Bloomington convention which was the start of the grange move-
ment in the United States. In 1857 he married Linnie F. CuUom,
sister of the present State Governor. They have had 4 children ; 2
are dead. Mr. Leeper owns 180 acres of land, is a Republican, and
his wife is a member of the M. E. Church.
Rev. G. J. Luckey was born in Buckheart tp., this county, Oct.
28, 1841, a son of John and Elizabeth A. (McCreary), natives of
Maryland ; educated at Hedding College, Abingdon, and at the
Northwestern University at Evanston, III. ; licensed to preach in
1864; in 1868 entered the Conference, and has continued in that
relation ever since ; has preached at Hamilton, 111., Colchester, 111.,
Terre Haute, Ind., etc., and is at present preaching at Farmington.
Nov. 23, 1865, he married Frances N. Ward, a native of Illinois.
They have 3 children, — John E., Maud, and George M. Mr. L.
enlisted in Co. A, 55th 111. Inf., Aug. 14, 1861 ; was in the battle
of Shiloh, but was soon afterward discharged on account of disa-
bility, when he was Second Sergeant. In politics, Rejmblican.
Clark Manning, carriage and wagon-maker, was born in England
Sept. 17, 1842, son of John and Jane (Hardy) ; came to this country
in 1865; runs a carriage and wagon shop; learned his trade in
Toronto, Canada ; has also learned to read and write without going
to school. During the recent war he enlisted in Co. A, 9th Mich.
Inf., was in the i)uttle of Stone River, Lookout Mountain, etc., and
was a prisoner at Andersonville awhile. In 1872 he married Caro-
line Pulver, a native of New York. He votes for the best man.
Abraham Marchant was born in Berkeley Co., Va., Nov. 4, 1798 ;
]>arents emigrated to Ohio in 1813; in the family were 6 sons and 4
daughters, Abraham l)eing tiie 3d son ; in 1817 lie married Elizabeth
Brown, and until 1828 lived in Highland Co.; June 27 of this year
they settled in Farmington tp., when their nearest neighbor was ten
miles distant. They have 4 sons and 4 daughters, who at present
reside near Farmington. Mr. M. lives with his youngest daughter,
Mrs. E. D. Spencer, Mrs. M. having died. Mr. Marchant, a Jack-
son Democrat, was a member of the lialtimore Convention in 1860
which nominated Douglas for President. AVhen he was 17 years
old his father died, in Ohio, aged 53; his mother died in April,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 689
»
1845, ao-ed 78 years. Mr. M.'s brothers and sisters are alld^ad but
the youngest brother and sister, who are in Highhind Co., Ohio.
His "eldest sister lived to be 92: she died in August, 1878, in same
county.
Jonah Marchant the iirst permanent settler of Farmington tp.,
was born in Berkeley Co., Va., Sept. 23, 1794. He moved to Ohio
in 1813 and there married Sarah Brown, Dec. 3, 1814. He left
Ohio in 1827 and came to what is now Farmington and settled u])on
the northeast quarter of sec. 13. He moved into a cabin built by
David Harkness. Mr. M. erected the first log cabin ever built in
Farmington. He was a farmer and died Feb. 25, 1872. He took
an active part in the early Indian trt)ubles here, and we find in the
possession of J. D. Hurd, editor of the Farmington News, some
commissions made to Mr. M. during these primitive times. There
is one dated July 8, 1831, and signed by Gov. John Reynolds,
which commissions him First Lieut, of 32d 111. Regt. ; April 1,
1832, a Cajitain's commission. July 26, 1830, he was a})])ointed
Justice .of the Peace by Gov. Ninian Edwards ; by Gov. Reynolds
Sept. 15, 1831 ; by Gov. Duncan Sept. 5, 1835, and by Wm. H.
Davidson, acting Governor, Sept. 11, 1837.
B. K. Marshall, carpenter, was born Sept. 15, 1825, a son of
Wm. and Mary (Kirkpatrick), natives of Pennsylvania ; emigrated
to this county in March, 1866; has clerked in a store 4 years; in
1852 he married Maria Buckhannon ; she died in 1877, since which
time Mr. Marshall's daughter has kept house for him. Mr. M. is a
Democrat, and has been Justice of the Peace (in Peoria Co.).
Presbyterian. He and his i)artncr did most of the wood-work on
the town hall in Farmington.
James Mason was born in Fayette Co., Pa., Jan. 21,1810, the son
of Jacob and Catharine INIason, the former of Pennsylvania, the
latter of Virginia ; James was brought uj) a farmer in Ohio, edu-
cated in the common schools, and emigrated to Fulton county in
1837 ; at present he is landlord of a hotel in Farmington and owns
220 acres of good land in Knox Co. He is a Spiritualist, but is
very reticent concerning his religious and political views. In 1840
he married Jane Jackson, and in 1849 Sarah Taylor. He has had
4 children, 2 of whom are married.
Alexander Maxwell, farmer, came to Fulton county in 1825 (notice
the time). This early pioneer was born in Pennsylvania May 30,
1805, son of Wm. and Ann (Judy) M. ; his grandfather was from
Scotland and a Captain under Gen. George Wasliington ; his father
was born in Virginia and his mother in Kentucky; they emigrated
to Illinois Territory in 1807; went in 1827 to Missouri and finally
died there. Alex. Maxwell now owns 636 acres of land in Fulton
Co., besides town property. He served 4 months in the Black
Hawdv war, and was with Stillman at his defeat in 1831. He mar-
ried Mary Ellis, and they had 11 children, 3 of whom are dead; 1
was killed in the army. Episcopal Methodist. Republican.
690 HISTORY OF FUI/rOX COUNTY.
John L. McCoy, flirmer, was born Sept. 4, 1807, in Waishington
county, N. Y., the son of J<)sej)h and Eleanor (Taylor), natives of
the same State; in]Mav, 1^41, he married -fane Shaw; in 1845, enii-
f^rateil to this eounty, loUowed farming, and now owns 120 acres
of land; has had 3 boys and 3 girls; one boy (Joseph) has died.
Mr. McCoy is a Democrat and his wife is a member of the Baptist
Chureli.
XathanUl }[<'i'h'i', farmer, was born Jan. 17, 1817, in Hamilton
county, O., the son of David and Nancy (Miller) M., the former of
Dutch ancestry and a native of New Jersey, and the latter of Scotch
descent and born'°"in Pennsylvania; in 1838 Mr. Nathaniel Meeker
emigrated to I'^ilton Co., settling near Fairview, where he burned
the iirst l)rick that was burned in that township, in 1842; followed
brick-making 17 years, and the rest of the time farming; he owns
240 acres of land in Peeria county. Jan. 22, 1844, he married
Rachel D. Hunt, a native of Ohio, and they have had 5 boys and 3
girls, 3 children married; the eldest daughter married Jackson
Mason and lives in Knox county ; the third son is a grain merchant
in Nebraska ; the fourth son is a teacher. Mr. Meeker has been
Justice of the Peace 12 years, Police Magistrate, School Director,
etc., but never had a lawsuit of his own. In politics he is a " Green-
backer."
Henry D. Morton, farmer, sec. 20. Mr. M. was born in Ohio
Jan. 27, 1831 ; his parents are Eliphalet and Mary Alexander, his
wife. When 4 years old Henry D. was brought to this county,
and was educated here in the common schools. He owns 320 acres
of land and in life has been generally successful. In 1854 he was
married to Maria Wilson, who has borne him 5 children, — 2 boys
and 3 girls, — 4 of whom are living. His wife is a member of the
Baptist Church.
Henry Myers, farmer, see. 28, is the son of Valentine and Cath-
arine (Crill) Myers, father of German descent and mother a native
of Pennsylvania. He was born in the Keystone State, Nov. 22,
1813, and came to this county in the sj)ring of 1848 and has resided
here since. He is extensively enoiio-ed in farmino- and owns 890
acres of land, 730 of them being in Fulton Co. He was united in
marriage in 1835 to Maria Fshleman, who has borne him 9 chil-
dren,— 5 boys and 4 girls, — all of whom are living. His wife is a
member of the Dunkard Church.
WiUUua Norton, teacher and farmer, sec. 16; P. O., Farmington ;
was born at South Bend, St. Joseph Co., Ind., Aug. 24, 1844. His
father, George C. Norton, was a native of N. Y. His mother,
Tamar (Stockdale) Norton, was a native of England. William
came to this eounty in 18()4. He attended the'common sehoolsand
the high school at Canton. He was engaged as a clerk in a boot
and shoe store at Canton for a year and a half. Jan. 16, 1873, he
was_married. Archilli C, born Nov. 20, '73, George H., Nov. 16,
'75, and the youngest, born June" 30, 1878, are his children. As
both a teacher and farmer Mr. N. has been successful.
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 691
A. G. Pinegar, farmer, was born April 2, 1822, in Pennsylvania,
to James and Sarah (Nelson) P., natives of North Carolina; the
former of Dutch and the latter of English descent ; has resided in
Farmington since 1836; owns 220 acres of land ; his father died
June 9, 1867, and his mother is still in this world; Sept, 25, 1845,
he married Matilda Marchant, and their children are 4 boys and 4
girls, all living. Mr. P. is a Democrat and has been School Di-
rector; his wife belongs to the M. E. Church.
Nelson Plummer, M. D., Farmington, was born Nov. 30, 1813, in
Massachusetts, son of Asa and Deborah (Mcltha), the former a na-
tive of the same State and the latter of Vermont; in 1836 Dr.
Plummer emigrated to Illinois, and in 1847 to Farmington, and has
continued ever since to reside on the same lot he then first selected;
he was educated in the common schools of Franklin Co., O. ; he
first commenced practice at Knoxville, 111., then 7 years in Iowa,
then in this city for 16 years; but he is a dentist at present. He
graduated in medicine at the St. Louis University in 1855. Nov.
28, 1839, he was married, and he has had two sons; but one of these,
Charles Henry, died from the eifects of a fall at the Farmington
depot, and the other, Everett N. was killed by a fall in his barn in
Mason Co., 111. Republican.
Thomas Putnam, 31. D., is the son of Y. C. and Deborah (Burns)
Putnam, and was born in New York State Dec. 8, 1836. The Dr.
came to this county in 1859. Ten years later upon his birthday
anniversary he was married. David Henderson is the name of a
child he has adopted. His wife is a member of the Congregational
Church.
James Ralston was born in Westmoreland Co., Penn., Jan. 3,
1817, son of Wm. and Anna (Sloan), father from Ireland and mother
a native of Pennsylvania; he has been a successful farmer, but is
now retired from active business; resides on 5 acres of ground in
the limits of Farmington; has lived near this city since 1854. In
1866 he married Martha Irwin. Presbyterians. Republican.
Hurjh Ritson was born Feb. 28, 1833, in England, son of John
and Elizabeth Ritson; came to Ohio in 1854 and to Farmington in
1855, since which time he has mostly worked at the coal business ;
is now overseer of mining for P. P. Chapman. Mr. R. is a Demo-
crat and has been Street Commissioner. Has 4 children. His
wife is a Baptist. P. O., Farmington.
Andreio Robb was born Jan. 28, 1827, in Ohio, to James and
Jane (Roberson) Robb; his fother was a native of Pennsylvania and
his mother of Yirginia; settled near Fairview in 1846; he is now
a farmer on sec. 24, owning 390 acres of land, besides property in
Farmington. In 1849 he married Susan Swigert, and they have 5
children, 4 of whom are living. James Robb died in 1872 in Mc-
Donough Co., and Jane 33 years previously. Mr. Robb has im-
proved nearly all his land himself, the first quarter-section being call-
ed the "lost quarter," because no record of it could be found. Is
692 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
a Republioau, iiiul liu.'^ been School Director, Road Commissioner
and Justice of the Peace. His portrait appears in this work.
James Robcrxon was born in Irehind Sept. 18, 1818, son of John
and Mary (Marens) ; came to Farmington in 1854; clerked most
of the time, — with A. K. Montgomery 10 years. In 18.36 he mar-
ried Rachel Cunningham, and they have had 6 children, all now
living. Mr, R. and wife are Presbyterians; he is a Democrat.
T. W. Ronan was born in England Dee. 21, 1841 ; wrought 5
years at the tailor's trade; came to Fulton county March 4, 1871 ;
was cutter for Geo. Stetson 6 years; then ''Tommy, the Tailor,"
set up for himself, and he is indeed a first-class workman. In 1873
he married Hester Alder, and they have had two children. He is a
Greenbacker and his wife a Presbyterian.
Joseph Ross, farmer, was born in the State of Vermont March
14, 1821, son of James and Martha, ?icf Hawkins; his father was
born in Massachusetts, of Scotch ancestry, and his mother in Ver-
mont, of English ancestry; emigrated to Ohio in 1833, and died
in that commonwealth ; Joseph came to Illinois in 1849, settling in
Salem tp., Knox Co.; removed to Fulton Co. in 1865; married
Caroline Culver in March, 1844, and their children are two boys
living and one, Francis, who died in 1857, aged two and a half
years. One is married and owns a farm in this countv. Charles,
the eldest, was born in 1847, and George was born in 1855. Par-
ents are Congregationalists, and Mr. Ross is also a Republican.
A. P. Sanders was born Nov. 1, 1815, in Berlin tp., Rensellaer
Co., N. Y., son of Peleg and Hannah (Peckham), natives of Rhode
Island; came to this county in 1850; is a farmer on sec. 16; owns
377 acres of land; has been School Director; is a Republican and a
Seventh-Day Baptist; in 1843 he married Annis Hull. P. O.,
Farmington.
I^ewis Scales was born in 1836, in Fulton Co., 111., son of Israel
and Phoebe (Franklin), father a native of Massachusetts and mother
of Vermont; emigrated to this county in 1833; Lewis is a farmer
on sec. 10, this township, owning 214 acres in this county ; he first
married Elizabeth Hurt, in 1860, and she died in 1872 ; in 1877 he
married Susan Mosher. He has had two children, one living. Mr.
Scales is a Republican and a very social man.
John T. Simpson, farmer, was born June 9, 1842, in this county,
on the farm he still lives on and which he has managed ever since
he was 16 years old. His parents, John and Margaret Simpson, are
natives of Ireland; they came to this county in 1834 and to this
township the next year; in visiting friends northwest of Yates City
Mr. S. drove stakes across the prairie for a guide on his return.
John T. is industrious and has increased the farm to 190 acres; in
1871 he married Martha Dickey, and they have 3 sons and 2 daugh-
ters. l*resbyterians. Republican.
Alexander Slack is a native of England and was born in that
country April 21, 1822. He came to this country in 1847 and to
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 693
the county in 1(S49. His parents were John and Anna Slack,
Since Mr. S. has come to 111. he has been engaged in farming ; prior
to that time he worked in a cotton mill. He married Miss Esther
Cross Feb. 14, 1844. Two children have been born to them : John,
who died in England, and Wm. Henry, who is married. P. O.,
Norris.
Charles A. Smith, jeweler, was born in Philadelphia, Aug. 12, 1851,
where his parents were also born; father's name was Andrew E. ;
emigrated to Fulton Co. in 1856; started in business for himself in
1875, at Altona, 111., and returned to Farmington in 1879. In
1876 he married Hattie Rider, who died Jan. 2, 1878. Mr. Smith,
while in Altona, was Captain of Militia, Co. C, enlisting in 1876;
during the great strike of 1877, July 23, Capt. Smith received orders
to hold his company ready for marching, and in 20 minutes he had
20 of his men uniformed at the armory. The company went to
East St. Louis and back to Galesburg, and took an active part in
quelling the riot. Capt. Smith is a Republican.
Rev. Q'cighton Springer was born May 2, 1829, in Muskingum
Coi, O. ; his parents were Isaac and Charlotte, the former a native
of Delaware, the latter of Ohio; in 1834 the family emigrated to
Illinois, and in 1855 Creighton came to Fulton Co. He attended
the Methodist Seminary at Peoria, and Judson College (a Baptist
institution at the time). Has belonged to the Conference since
1854; in 1869 was appointed financial agent of Hedding College,
Abingdon, but subsequently resigned. His first marriage was to
Elizabeth A. Barber Oct. 15, 1857, and their only child was Mary
C. ; his second marriage was to Sarah Haskins, Oct. 20, 1863, Re-
publican.
31. Tarr, physician, was born in Jackson Co., ()., Aug. 14, 1831 ;
came to this county in 1846 ; studied medicine with an Indian doctor;
in 1857 he married Caroline Wheeler and has had two children^ —
Sophronia and Joseph. P. O., Farmington.
A. B. Thomas was born on Mt. Desert Island, Me., March 12,
1812, the son of Abraham and Jane (Berry), natives of Massachu-
setts; emigrated to this county in 1837, arriving in June; he was
a house and ship-joiner, but for the last 20 years has been a farmer,
and very successful, owning at present 956 acres of land, 636 acres
of it in this county. In the fall of 1838 he married Mary Hart,
and they have had 3 children. He and his wife are members of the
Congregational Church. Mr. Thomas has accomplished a great deal
as conductor on the U. G. R. R., having in charge at one time as many
as 14 colored persons. In all he has helped about 200 out of
slavery, and wishes the number was 200 times that. He was an
Abolitionist when it cost something to be one. As early as 1844
he voted the Abolitionist ticket, voting that year for James G.
Birney for President of the United States, the only vote for Birney
in Fulton county. Mr. Thomas was in the Seminole war. During
his life he has been School Director^ Assessor, Road Commissioner,
694 HISTORY OF fulton county.
etc. He never drank intoxicatino:; li(|iior or used tobacco, and has
never sued a man or been sued either for debt or crime.
Jdiius Torrcnx, farmer, was b(u-n fluly o, 1822, in Ireland, son of
Robert and Nancy (Watt) ; came to this county in 1849 and settled
in sec. 16, Farmington tp. ; he now owns 200 acres in this countv,
and is a successful farmer. In 18r)2 he married Lucy Ann Pierce,
and they have two daughters, — Sarah Jane and Mary Ann. Congre-
gationalists. Republican. P. O., Farmington.
Eli'ven Tucker was a farmer and stock-raiser. jNIr. Tucker's
]xirents were Roswell and Ann (Thomas) Tucker, and he was born
in Hamilton county, ()., March 4, 1814. He came to this countv
in 1841, and was closely identified with the history of the
county since. He was one of the largest property holders in the
county, having over 600 acres of land. Politically he was a Repub-
lican.
J. 3L Tucker was born in this county May 4, 1846, son of Eleven
and Catherine (Lake) Tucker, who came to this county in 1841;
they are of German descent and natives of Ohio. J. M. learned
the carpenter's trade ; at present he owns 94 acres of laud. His
father owned 600 acres when he died June 16, 1874. In his fa-
ther's family were 4 boys and 1 girl. Republican. P.O., Farming-
ton.
W. H. Tucker, farmer, sec. 82. This gentleman was born in Ful-
ton county in 1842; received his education in common schools and
the Canton high school. His parents, Eleven and Catharine (Lake)
Tucker, are natives of Ohio. He was married to Sarah A. Vausrhn
Dec. 4, 1867. John L,, Hattic and (xrace are the names of their
children.
i\\ Tnffle, farmer, sec. 20; P. O., Farmington. ^[r. T. was born
in this county in 1849, and was educated in the common schools.
His parents were Hazael and Elizabeth (Greenwell) Tuttle. In 18(59
he was married to Martha ]\Iills. Two children, both girls, and
living, have been born to them.
Jo/ni W. Wdfson was born July 6, 1819, in Virginia, son of
David and Mary (Sanders) AV., both of Frederick county, Va. ; ed-
ucated in Hillslx^ro, O., high school; came to Illinois in 1841,
and settled 4 miles southeast of Farmington, on sec. 19 ; lived in
Peoria c(»unty 18 years; was Justice of the Peace at Trivoli, and
School Trustee five or six terms; he married the first time in 1844,
Miss Velira Homey, and they had 2 sons and 3 daugiiters; she
died March 26, 1872. Mr. A\'. has dealt in live stock in Farming-
ton for 20 years, — 8 years in company with Samuel Jack ; but at
present is in the grain business; feeds 120 head of cattle now, how-
ever. Owns .'] or 4 houses in town and land in Iowa. Republican.
J. H. Whifdker, formerly a teacher, now a farmer, was born Feb.
17, 1853, in Fulton Co., 111., son of J. N. and Anna (Keller), his
father a native of Massachusetts and his mother of Pennsylvania;
the family landed in Fulton Co. in 1847, settling on sec. 8, this tp. ;
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 695
J. H. was efliioated at the Farniington high school and in a bnsiness
course at Ann Arbor, Mich. ; taujrlit district school 8 terms; taught
music, bdth vocal and instrumental, several years; Feb. 8, 1877, he
married Kffie Moltlirop, and they have a son, — Arthur. Mr. W. is
a Grccnbackcr, and made '10 speeches for his principles when A. J.
Strater ran for Congress. P. O., Farmington.
W. H. n7r^'/(rr, merchant, was born Sept. 2, 1842, in Ohio, son
of Wm. and Elizabeth (Clover), natives of the same State; came
to this county in 18(ii), when he quit farming and set up a groceiy
and hardware store, followed this business 6 years, and then the
dry-goods business 4 years; is in the latter business now, in Farm-
ington. In 18(51 he enlisted in the 44th regt. Ind. Vol., in Co. B,
and honorably discharged May 20, 18G4; was in several hard-
fought battles; was under Rosencrans in his attack on Gen. Bragg,
forcing the latter back for .30 miles; Mr. W.'s regiment was under
fire the whole distance, and his brother was killed in this battle
while fighting near him; was also at the battle of Chickamauga,
where he was wounded, and was on the battle-field 15 days before his
wound \\-A§ dressed or he received any medical aid ; was taken pris-
oner SeptT 21, 1865, but was soon exchanged. Nov. 29, 1872,
he married Elizabeth C. Cone, and they have 2 children, — William
and Julia May. Congregationalists. Republican.
J. J. WorrcL Among the prominent farmers of the county is
Mr. W., who is a native of Baltimore Co., Md., and was born Aug.
29, 182(5. ITis flither, Henry Worrell, was of Scottish descent, and
his mother, Harriet Worrell, of German. Mr. W.came to Fulton
county when at the age of 10 years. He was educated in the com-
mon schools and adopted agricultural life. He now resides on sec.
33 and owns 400 acres of land. He was married in 1854 to Char-
lotte Ann Wallace. AVe give his jmrtrait elsewhere.
Hczekiah Zoo/:, farmer; born Jan. 11, 1844, in Pennsylvania, of
Dutch ancestry ; educated in Fulton Co. ; runs the old homestead
farm, where he and his mother reside; in 1869 he married Hannah
Stokie, and their children are Olive May, Charles Elden and Harry.
Republican.
TOAVNSHIP OFFICIALS. •
The following gentlemen have served the township in the various
official capacities named. The years of serving are given, and
where more than one date is opposite a name, covering a period of
years, it indicates that the official served during the intervening
years :
SUPERVISORS.
J. D. Hand 18.30-54 Saiimel AVilkinson 18()2-63
R. P. Sajre 1855 W. C. Dav lS()4-66
Johns. Harris 185(5 Wm. McCov 18(17
Sanuiel Wilkinson 1857 .John A. Leeper 1868-70
J. Dunn 1858-59 R. 8. Ramsev 1871-74
Samuel Wilkinson 1860 John A. Leeper 187-5-76
W. C. Dav 1861 Riley Bristol 1877-79
696
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
TOWN CLERKS.
John Biifld 1859-70
George W. Little 1871-72
C. W. Heaton.
George W. Little.
1873
1874-79
ASSESSORS.
A. B. Thomas 1859
J. B Summers 1860
J. Dunn 1861
Eleven Tucker 1866-68
Milton George
Eleven Tucker
James B. Summers.
Chas. Newcomb
1869
1870-73
1874-77
1878-79
COLLECTORS.
John Erwin 1859
F. W. Hatch 1860
Wm. Caldwell. 1861
James Mason 1862
Peter Lane 1863
I'eterW. Petill 1864
J. C. Leffler 1865
Thomas S. Brown 1866
S. Barstow 1867
F. M. Tavlor 1868
Robert McAulaj-
John S. Holcomb...
A. J. Strong
G. T. Rider
Lewis McFarland...
Wm. L. Taylor
Albinus White
J. C. Sloan
Asahel Reynolds....
James B. Summers.
1869
1870
1871
1872
1873-74
1875
1876
1877
1878
1879
HARRIS TOWNSHIP.
This township, which borders upon the w^estcrn boundary line of
the county, was named in honor of John Harris, its first settler.
Mr. Harris moved from B(>rnadotte township and located ujwn sec-
tion 18 of this township as early as 1827. He erected a log cabin
and for several years followed the occupation of hunting, finding
abundance of game in the native forests and upon the broad, beau-
tiful and uncultivated prairies. Mr. Harris came into the county
first in 182"). He came from Ohio and returned, making the round
trip on foot. Robert Harris was the first person to die in the
township, and ISIary Bumford was the first person born. The first
marriage was that of Mr. A. Day and Miss Katy Harris. The
first sermon preached in the township was by Rev. James Haney at
tlie cabin of Isaac Sennett in 1834, to an audience of four persons.
William Haney was the first Justice of the Peace. He was elected
in 1840. The first church edifice erected was built in Marietta in
1841, and the first school-house was built on section 16 in 18;>9.
Tlie town of Marietta is situated upon the east half of section 16.
This little village was founded in 18.'37 by Lorenzo Bevans, F)enja-
min Hoyt and others. At one time it was of considerable impor-
tance in the history of the county. At present it contains about 150
inhabitants.
Seville is a point in this township where the T., P. & W. railroad
crosses Spoon river. A depot, blacksmith shop and 3 or 4 houses
are there.
CHURCHES.
The Mavktia M. E. Church is an okl and well established society
at Marietta.
WilliamH' Clans M. E. CAf/rcA.— This congregation was organized in
November, 1847, by John Williams and Amos Morey. It worsiiips
every alternate Sunday in the Williams scliool-house, and consists
of 20 communicants. Rev. J. E. Rutledge, Pastor. Sunday-school
each Sunday.
Point Pleasant United Brethren Oiurch, section 20, Harris town-
ship, was organized about the year 1855 by J. J. Wyatt. The
exact date is not certainly known, but the first conference of this
society was held in the Salem circuit, in Marietta, Dec. 26, 1857.
This class numbered about 60 communicants at one time, but
through the instrumentalities of death and removals, it has been re-
42
698 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
duced, until it now numbers about 30, Services are held every al-
ternate Sunday by Rev. David Martin, Pastor. Tliev worslii])ed
fur many years in school-houses, until October, 1873, when the
present Church structure was erected.
MILLS.
Fuller's Mi//. — This mill was built by Collins & Van Epps in
1841, and Jonathan Jennings was foreman. At first it was operated
with one set of burrs. Soon afterwards it passed into the hands of
Van Epps, Trickey & Sperry, who in 1848 took out the old ma-
chinery and replaced it with new, under the supervision of D. N.
Wright, millwright, of Avon, 111. Its capacity at that time was
100 barrels in 24 hours. It was purchased by A. S. Fuller in the
year 1853, for the sum of ^7,000. Mr, Fuller remo^leled the entire
structure in 1866, and put in another set of burrs, and its present
capacity is 125 barrels in 24 hours. This mill is situated on Spoon
river on the N. W. i of section 25, Harris township, and has done
more custom work than any mill in this section of country, and
still has its share of that class of work. Mr. Fuller is an enter-
prising man, and knows how to suit his numerous customers in
making the very best of flour.
In 1835 there was a saw-mill erected upon the opposite side of
the river from Fuller's Mill. This mill was put up by Joel S.
Reese and Jonathan Jennings.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
BeloAV are personal sketches of the leading citizens and many of
the old settlers of the township:
Samue/ L. Brick, M. D. The father of Dr. B. was born in Salem,
N. J., and died Dec. 4, 1875. His mother, Kachel (Freshours)
Brick was born in Tennessee in 1814. He received a common-school
education, taught school and read medicine from 1868 to '72, when lie
went to Texas and began the practice of medicine. After praticing
for a short time he entered the Keokuk ^NFedical College, at which
he graduated, and in 187(> began a i)ractice at Marietta, where he is
still engaged in his profession, enjoying a large practice.
Major Bnley, farmer, miner, etc., was born July 1(1, ISIS, in
Green Co., Ky ; came to Fulton Co. in 1844, where he has followed
farming in summer and quarrving and coal-minin<r in the fall and
Avinter. Aug. 11, 1862, he enlisted in Co. F, lO.'.d 111. Vol. Inf,
for the war; participated in the siege of Vicksburg, and in the
battles of Mission Ridge, Dallas, Kenesaw Mountain, etc. ; and was
honorably discharged in June, 1865. ^Nlarch .'51, 1842, he married
Flora A. Reynolds, and they have had 9 children; 5 are living.
He married a second time, Charlotte Cooper, May 14, 1873, His
father. Win. Buley, was born near Richmond, Va., about 1789;
settled in Indiana in 1824; and died in 1849, Major B. is liberal
in politics, voting for the man and not the party.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 699
George Caley, son of Chambers Caley, was born in Yorkshire,
Eng., Feb. 20, 1833; crossed the ocean with his parents in 1839 and
located in Knox Co., O. ; came to this county in 1855, and is en-
gaged in ftirming and stock-raising; was married Oct. 7, 1858, to
Nancy, daughter of Stephen Bliss, who was one of the early settlers
of Bernadotte tp., and now deceased. This union was blessed with 5
children, of whom 4 are living. Mrs. C. died Sept. 27, 1866, and
Mr. C. married a second time. This wedding occurred Nov. 27, 1872,
when he was married to Helen 15evans, daughter of Milton Bevans,
deceased, who was one of the pioneers of Harris. He settled in Ma-
rietta and lived there till his death, which occurred Nov. 8, 1875.
Mr. C.'s eldest daughter, who is a subscriber for this book, is now
teaching in district No. 9, Harris tp., where she had previously taught
2 terms. In her profession she has been quite successful.
Henri/ Coon.s, harness-maker, was born in Indiana, May 25, 1832.
His father, David Coons, came with his family to Bernadotte tp.,
this county, in 1852, and after establishing a comfortable home for
his family, he died in Sept., 1876, a member of the United Brethren
Church. ' Henry enlisted in Co. I, lU3d Keg. 111. Vol. Inf., Aiig.
24, 1862, and lost his left leg in the war, after two years' service.
In 1869, he established himself in Marietta as a harness-maker;
Jan. 7, 1872, he married Lucy Dodge, daughter of Geo. W. Dodge,
who died when she was a child. Emma, born Dec. 26, 1875, is
the only child of Mr. Coons. ^Irs. Coons' mother, aged 78, lives
with them. Mr. C. is a Democrat.
Jeremiah 31. Cramblef, farmer and stock-raiser, son of next men-
tioned, was born Nov. 17, 1834, in Jefferson Co., O. ; family emi-
grated t(» this tp. in 1840; in Aug., 1862, he enlisted in Co. 1, 72d
reg. 1st Illinois Volunteer Infantry ; was discharged Aug. 7, 1865, at
Vicksburg, Miss., after having nobly fought in the battles of A^icks-
burg, Chami)ion Hills, Big Black river, Spring Hill, Franklin and
others ; in the last battle he was wounded. March 22, 186(), he mar-
ried Nancy J. German, who was born in Cass tp., and is a sister of
James G. German, mentioned elsewhere. They have had 5 children,
4 now living, viz: Eli/a E., Fannie M., Eugene and Charles T.
Staunch Republican. P. ()., Marietta.
ThoimiN C'ramljlef was born in Maryland, moved to Ohio in an
early day, in 1840 came to Fulton Co., and is the father of 7 children,
one of whom is Jeremiah M., above mentioned. Mr. C. has already
seen many of the hardships of pioneer life, and now he goes to Col-
orado.
John W. Bhmnltf is a native of Jefferson county, Va., and was born
on Christmas, 1802, near the place where John Brown was hung.
His parents moved to Kentucky in 1818, and in 1839 he moved to
Indiana. Mr. D. lived there until 1850, when he started for Iowa,
but stopped in Fulton county and has lived here ever since. He
raised a company of men for the Mexican war, but it was not need-
ed. He has served as Justice of the Peace and Postmaster, and in
700 HISTORY OF FUI/rON COUNTY.
1847-8 he was a niemhor of the Indiana Legislature. He was mar-
ried to Rachel Grinard, a native of Mason county, Ky., where she
was horn Aug. 1"), 1<S()7, on the 2"2d of Sept., 1825. They have
had a family of 10 children, of whom Eleanor, James P., Wm. V.,
Betsey A. and Pratt are living. Both Mr. and Mrs. W. are mem-
bers of the Baptist Church. He was bai)tized Feb. 22, 1828, and
his wife in March of the same year. They lived in Bushnell, 111.,
for over 4 years, but now, free from all the cares of an active busi-
ness life they are passing the decline of life on a farm in Harris
township.
Pratt Dimmift, son of John Dimmitt, whose personal sketch also
appears in this work, is engaged in agriculture. He was born in
Montgomery county, Ind., Oct. 20, 184G. His parents moved to
Peoria county. 111., in 1850, and soon to this county, and now live
with Pratt. Mr. D. has held many of the local offices of his town-
ship. He was united in marriage with ^liss Margaret J. Wheeler
March 30, 1871. Mrs. D. was born in Young Hickory township,
Fulton county. They have a family of 4 children : Warder D.,
Burton J., Eldana and an infiint. Mrs. D. belongs to the Baptist
Church. P. O., Marietta.
Stephen Foster, sec. 28 ; P. O., Marietta ; was born in Ohio in 1824.
His educational advantages were very poor; he came to this county
in 1857 ; by hard work and industry he has made a good, well im-
proved farm, which was all brush when he took possession of it.
He is engaged in general farming. His father, Samuel Foster, was
a soldier in the Revolution under Washington, and won many
laurels by his bravery and valuable services. Our subject was mar-
ried April 22, 1836, to Lucina St. Clair, by whom he had 8 children ;
of these 7 are living; all married but two, Frank and Almira. Mrs.
Foster was born in Mercer county. Pa., Aug. 12, 1828. Her flither,
J5radberry St. Clair, was one of the honored soldiers of the Revo-
lution.
Amos S. Fuller, miller, son of Ezra and Phoebe (Williams) Ful-
ler, was born Feb. 5), 1827, at Fabius, N. Y. His father is dead,
but his mother is living at the ripe old age of 85 years, and is resid-
ing with her son in this township, where he owns and successfully
conducts the mill on Spoon river that bears his name. Mr. F.'s
father moved to Lorain county, O., in 1831, where our subject lived
till 1852, when he came to Fairvicw. The following year he pur-
chased the flouring mill near Seville which he has owned and oper-
ated ever since. He was married in February, 1848, to Caroline
B. Sherman, and they have a family of 3 children : Caroline L.,
Julia E. and Bradford E. Mr. F. bought a mill in Cuba in 1855;
livi'd there G years and sold it to his son in 1879.
James G. German was born in Cass township, Fulton Co., Feb.,
22, 1853, and is the son of James and Mahala (Cannon) German,
the former a native of Kentucky, and died Jan. 17, 18G2; the latter
is living in McDonough Co., 111. The elder German was one of
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 701
the first settlers of Totten's Prairie in Cass tp. Our subject re-
ceived a good education at Lewistown, and is engaged in farming
with Mr. Eli W. Smith in Harris tp. ; P. O., New Philadelphia.
George W. Green, mercJiant and postmaster at Marietta, was born
Dec. 26, 1824, in "NV. Virginia. He was taken by his fatlier, Hugh
Green, to Jefferson Co., O., in 1825, where he lived for 15 years,
when he returned to his old home, and 5 years later went back to
the Buckeye State, and in 1849 came to this county where he has
since resided. Mr. G.'s mother, who is 76 years old, resides with
him. He was educated in Ohio and has held the offices of Su])er-
visor. Town Clerk, Assessor, Collector, Justice of the Peace and
Constable. He was married, April 24, 1853, to Maria Wilson,
daughter of Charles Wilson, of Bushnell. She was born in Harris
tp. Abigail H. is the name of their daughter.
Willlaia Hdsfi/, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Darke Co.,
Ind., Sept. 8, 1832; in 1836 the family emigrated to Dayton, O.,
where the mother died in 1838; Wm. was bound out, but when 9
years of age a Mr. McCoy stole him, hid him under a sheep-skin
and hauled him 50 miles, — to a place near Chillicothe, O. ; for 7
years he trained and rode fast horses, among which were those of
Jack Bryant, that made the best time on record in America. Mr.
H. rode Hoosier Bill in several States, — a horse that was never riv-
aled in all his races. Mr. H.'s father left Dayton soon after the death
of Mrs. PI., and hearing that his son was killed by the cars, expected
never to see him again ; but in 1848 Wra. succeeded in finding his
father. A young man on board a Wabash steamer told him about
his sister marrying a man named Hastv, and this wave him a clue to
his father's whereabouts. Wm. was then a herder for two years,
and next a traveler all over the United States. Served in the late
war, in Co. B, 84th 111. Vol. Inf, was wounded at the battle of
Perryville, Ky., and was discharged. Sept. 3, 1855, he married
Martha Howard, and they have had 9 children, 8 of whom are liv-
ing. He settled in Harris tp. in 1855. He also runs a thresher.
P. O., Seville.
John A. Hensley, farmer, born in Kentucky, settled on sec. 15,
this tp., in 1853; Feb. 28, 1837, married Minerva, daughter of
Jacob Yocum, who died of cholera July 10, 1833, in Kentucky.
They had 9 children, of whom 5 are living. She died Sej)t. 12,
1864, and March 22, 1866, he married Mary E. Walker, a native of
Missouri, who died April 6, 1875. His daughter Eva now keeps
house for him. Mr. H.'s fither. Fielding Hensley, was born in
Virginia in 1792, and in 1812 was taken by his parents in emigra-
tion to Kentucky. John A. Hensley is a Democrat. P. O.,
Marietta.
George W. Hohhs, son of John Hobbs, sr., was born near Balti-
more, Md., Sept. 13, 1813; was taken by his parents to JelVerson
Co., O., in 1817, and came to Fulton Co., in 1835, and was one of
the pioneers of Harris tp. He planted the first orchard in the
7()2 HISTORY OF FUL,TON COUNTY.
township, and took the ]>reminm on fruit from this orchard at the
first county fair held in Fulton Co. In 1876 he sold $30 worth of
pears from one tree in the orchard. He was married, April 20,
1837, to Eliza Humphrey. The following are the names of their
children: George, deceased, John B., Addison R., \\'il]iam, Jane;
E.., wife of James Wallace, merchant, Lewistown, Martha, wife of
A. J. Franklin, merchant in Nevada. Mr. H. is a blacksmith by
trade and still has in his possession an anvil which was brought
across the mountains before the National pike was built. He is en-
gaged in farming; P. O., Marietta. He gave his children a liberal
education and liberally provided for them as they left the parental
roof. Mr. H. is the only pioneer in the township who still resides
on the old homestead. His land is a part of sec. 16, and was the
first land ])urchased in the township.
Robert Hood, proprietor of coal mines, was born June 12, 1832,
in Petenweams parish, Fifeshire, Scotland, and crossed the ocean to
Maryland in 1854; Sept. 18, 1857, he married Theresa Mary Ann
A'^ivian, a native of Loudon, Eng., and they have had 8 children, 7
of whom are living. Mr. Hood opened the first coal mine in Col-
chester, McDonough Co., and became salesman for the company in
Quincy. He settled in Harris township, Fulton Co., in 1858, and
opened the first coal mine in this township. One miner, Simon
Roser, has worked fi)r Mr. Hood fi)r 2.") years. Mr. H. still retains
the mine he first opened here, although he has much competition.
Republican. P. O., Bushnell.
Charles Hoirard, of Marietta, was born in Morgan Co., O., June
26, 1822. His father, Samuel Howard, was a native of the Old
Dominion; he brought his family to Illinois in 1831, in a wagon
drawn by 3 yoke of oxen. When they reached the Kickapoo river
they found the floor of the bridge had been swept away and the
river high. Thinking it dangerous to fi)rd, Mr. H. directed his
wife and the elder children (among whom was Charles) to walk over
the remaining stringer of the bridge, while he took the 2 smaller
children and the team and attempted to ford the river. When he
reached the center of the stream the curr(>nt was so swift that it
turned the Avagon over. Mr. H. caught his children and made his
way to shore. It was only through the greatest exertion that he
succeeded in saving his oxen. Charles Howard, although but 9 years
old when he came to the county, has experienced the hardships
of frontier lifi". He has ground corn in a hominy block, ])aid taxes
with co(jn-skins, and has been compelled to do many things which
would seem (piite novel to the young j)eople of to-day. He filled
the office of Justice of the Peace for 16 years; has been Collector
for Harris and represented Harris and Cass in the Board of Super-
visors for 8 terms. He was elected Treasurer of Fulton Co. in
1864, and re-elected in 1866. He was married in Feb., 1844, to
Susan Clem, who has borne him 2 children : Nancy and Samuel B.
Samuel B. Howard; P. O., Marietta; was born in Fulton Co.,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 703
Sept. IG, 1S50, and is the son of Charles Howard, of whom we
speak further above. Mr. Howard was educated in Lewistown,
after whicJi he took a Western tour, returning in 1872, and Jan. 1,
1873, married Ruth Hollister, daughter of Munson Hollister, of
Harris township. This union has been blessed with 4 children.
Mr. H. has been engaged in farming since 1873 with good success.
He has served the people as Town Clerk for two years, leaving a
good record in that capacity.
Samuel. M. lakes. The subject of this sketch is the son of Jonas
and Mary (Duncan) Ickes, and was born in Perry Co., Pa., March
12, 183G.' His father, who is still living, was born in Montgomery
Co., Pa., Feb. 3, 1793. He tells us the name Ickes was formerly
Ecke, a Saxon word, meaning a corner. Mr I. erected Bloomtield
Academy, Perry Co., and his son Samuel was educated in this in-
stitution. Our'subject moved to Warren Co., 111., in 1856, went to
Knox Co. in 1864, and came to this county in 1872. He was mar-
ried Jan. 13, 1859, to Miss Elizabeth J. McCartney, who was born
in Perry Co., Pa., not over 10 miles from where he was, yet they
never knew one another until they met in Warren Co., 111. This
union has been blessed with 6 children, 5 boys and 1 girl. William
and Robert are running the farm. Both Mr. and Mrs. I. are mem-
bers of the M. E. Church. The great-great-grandfather of Mr. I.
came to Pennsylvania under Wm. Penn, and built a stone house in
Montgomery county in 1717 on the 1,000-acre farm which he set-
tled upon. This old building stands to-day in good condition. Mr.
I. farms during the summer and teaches during the winter. He
taught 7 years at Gilson, Knox Co. P. ()., Smithficld.
Sainnel Lnfz, school-teacher and potter, was born March 11, 1817,
in Cumberland Co., Penn.; his parents emigrated with him to
Augusta Co., Va., in 1821 ; Dec. 23, 1847, he married Elizabeth
N. Conner, a native of Augusta Co., Va. ; have had 9 children, 5
of whom are living; came to this county in 1857, and settled in
Marietta. He still resides in the township, and his P. O. Marietta.
Has taught school in the winter for 40 years, — 4 to 5 years in the
same district, — evidence of popularity. His fither, Samuel, was a
native of Pennsylvania, a farmer, and died in 1871.
Joseph L. Mackey, wagon-maker and blacksmith, Seville, is a son
of Joseph and Elizabeth (Eoresman) Mackey, and was born in Mc-
Donough Co., 111., Oct. 19, 1847. His parents were natives of the
Keystone State ; his father is a prominent farmer in McDonough
Co., and his mother is deceased; she died July 17, 1868. He came
to this county in 1871, and located in the village of Seville, where
he has since successfully followed his trades. He was mairied Dec.
16, 1869, to Mary M.Shamblen, a native of Ohio. They had a
family of 4 children born to them, viz: Chas. L., George W.,
James W., ^nd an infant, deceased.
^ Thomas H. McElroij was born June 22, 1808, in Jefferson Co.,
O. ; was united in matrimony with Elizabeth Humphrey, Feb. 25,
704 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
1834. They had born to them a family of 8 children, of whom 5
are now living-. Mrs. McElroy died April 2G, ]87(j. The subject
of this sketch moved to Iowa in 184.'3, and returned to Ohio, and
in 1845 came to this county and settled on sec. 16, Harris tp.,
where he now resides. Nine years of his life in this county he
passed as a resident of Marietta. AVhen a boy Mr. McE. ran a flat-
boat on the rivers from Wheeling to New Orleans. He saw the
first steam-boat that ever plied the waters of the Ohio river, which
he says was in 1812.
Thomas J. McElroy, farmer and stock- raiser, sec. 16; P. O.,
Marietta. Mr. McElroy was born in Marietta, Fulton Co., Aug.
23, 1847. Of his father, Thomas H. McElroy, a sketch is given
just above. The subject of this sketch was married Nov. 28, 1872,
to Miss M. J. McKeever, who was born in Harrison Co., O., on
the 16th of Sept., 1853. A family of 3 children have been born
to them, 2 of whom, George H. and Ada, are living. Mr. Mc-
Elroy is a member of the M. E. Church.
Nathan Mclnfyre, a resident of Harris tp., is engaged in farming;
was born in Cayuga Co., N. Y., Oct. 13, 1813; his father, in honor
of whom he was named, was a native of the Empire State and of
vScottish descent. Mr. Mclntyre moved to Ontario Co. in 1835,
and to Illinois in 1838. He is living with his second wife.
He was first united in marriage to Miss Orthy I^. Clark, July
4, 1839. She was a native of New York, and died in 1852.
By her he had 7 children, 4 boys and 3 girls, 3 of whom
are living and also married. He was united in marriage with
Lovina McBerth Sept. 13, 1863, who is a member of the
Christian Church. His son, "Waterman, enlisted in Co. G, 103d
Til. Inf., and died in Washington Park Hospital, Cincinnati,
O., March 27, 1865, and buried in Sj)ring Grove Cemetery. Of
his daughters Mary lives in Iowa, Corlista in Smithfield, and Ce-
linda in Irocpiois Co., 111.
Dr. A. H. Medus was born on the 22d of Feb., 1821, at Derby,
Ct. In 1833 he moved with his parents to New York, and from
there he moved to Missouri in 1852, where he followed his ])rofes-
sion. In 1877 he came to Harris tp. He was educated at Amherst,
Mass., and is a graduate of Pittsfield (Mass.) Medical College. He
was married Dec. 3, 1856. While a resident of Missouri he was
an intimate friend of Judg(> R. E. Hill and Dr. Lehew. In 1878
the Doctor opened a coal-bank ui)on the farm where he lives. He
also has one of the finest sand-banks in Fulton Co., both of which
are easy of access. Dr. M. is also quite extensively engaged in
gardening. P. O., Bushnell.
Win. H. Mil/cr, farmer, was l)orn in Cass tp., this Co., Sept. 16,
1841, and is the son of M. D. Miller, of SmithHeld. His mother's
maiden name was Susan Wanghtel, sister of Henry Waughtel, Cass
tp. The family have experienced the privations characteristic of
pioneer life in this country. Nov. 27, 1864, he married Martha J.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 707
Coons, aiul they have had 3 children, of whom Henry E. and John
D. are living. Democrat. P. O., Marietta.
Joseph C. Morgan was born in Fulton Co., Nov. 21, 1847, and is
the son of Dr. Darius T. Morgan, a native of New York, and who
has been a practicing physician for '27 years. He is now located at
Bushnell, 111. Mr. M.'s mother, ^Martha Morgan, 7iee Harris, is a
native of Ohio. He received a common-school education in Fulton
Co.; was married Aug. 20, 1867, To Julia E. Fuller, daughter of
Amos S. Fuller, whose biography ap])ears in this work. 8he was
born Oct. 19, 1850, in Lorain Co., ()., and is a member of the M.
E. Church. Mr. M. is engaged in farming. P. O., Seville.
Robert Orr was born in Scotland Jan. 1, 1835, and he is the son
of Robert O. and Margaret (Nicol) Orr, who lived near the })lace
where Robert Burns was born, when the subject of this sketch was
born. He was married to Jane Oliver April 22, 1860. She is also
a native of Scotland and was born in the town of Kilmarnock, 10
miles from the birthplace of Burns. They have had born to them 6
children, 3 of whom are living. Mr. O. came to this country in
1857 and to Illinois in 1861, and in 1867 moved upon the farm upon
which he now resides. In 1876 he moved to Iowa but returned to
Harris tp. the following year. He expended a large sum of money
prospecting for coal in McDonough and Warren counties. While
mining for coal in Kewanee June 27, 1862, the bank caved in upon
him and crippled him for life. In 1866 he opened a coal bank on
his farm and has operated it since. The stratum of coal he works is
about 28 inches thick of an excellent quality, and he sells large
quantities, it being easy of access. P. O., Bushnell,
(t. L. I'dtferson is a native of the Prairie State and was l)orn in
Coles Co., June 26, 1833, and at the age of 3 years he was brought
to this county by his parents, where he has since made his home, yet
his life has been largely spent in traveling and laboring in different
States for the suj)port of his widowed mother and her family. He
has traveled through and worked in 15 different States; served one
year in the late war. From 1857 to 1861 he was in the employ of
the U. S. Government, swinging the ox-whip over his slow team in
crossing the Western plains. He was married, Oct. 10, 18(51, to
Nancy Kidd, who has borne him 6 boys and one girl, all of whom
are living at home. P. O., Marietta.
James Martin. Seamans, farmer, was born Sept. 27, 1828, in Butler
Co., O., and is the son of James and Hannah Seamans, the former
a native of the Buckeye State and the latter of I)arl)y Plains, N.
Y. ; she was born April 2, 1807. They live in Sheridan Co., Mo.
Our subject moved to Gibson Co., Ind., in 1845, to McDon-
ough Co., 111., in 1850 and to Harris tp. in 1867. He has been
School Director and Constable here and was Deputy Sheriff in
McDonough Co. for 12 years. He was married, Feb. 15, 1857, to
Miss Sarah Hay hurst. They have had 8 children, 4 of whom are
living. The other 4 died of typhoid fever. The names of those
708 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
living are Hannah, Marcrarot, Ellen and Maria : the two latter are
married. Mr. S. owns a good farm of 'iOO acres; never had a law-
!-uit in his life. P. O., Bushnell.
Roxie A. (Cramblet) Smith, wife of Eli W. Smith, was born in
Marietta, Fulton Co. Mr. Smith came to this county with his
parents in 1852. He is a native of Belmont Co., O., and is engaged
in farminj; and stock-raisin<r. Thev have one son, Jerrv E. P.
O. address, New Phihulelphia. "
Charles E. Spear. The subject of this sketch was born in Alton,
111., April 12, 1851, and is the son of Lewis and Lurene (Stow)
Spear, the former a native of Highland county, Ohio, and the latter
of Kentucky. They are now living at Normal, 111., where Mr. S.
was educated. He began teaching in Randolph, McLean county,
111., in 1873, where he remained 3 terms, taught one year in Taze-
well county, and in 1876 came to Fulton county, where, in the
town of Marietta he has very successfully taught school for two
years. Is now preparing to enter the legal held.
Chrnelius Timerman, farmer, was born in Preston county, Va.,
Nov. 10, 1825. His father, John T., of German descent, moved
with his family to Ohio in 1820, then a wilderness, and died there.
The tiimilv then mio^rated to Tuscarawas countv, O., no less a wild-
erness, infested with wolves and panthers. Jan. 25, 1849, Cornelius
married Mary E. Ferguson, by whom he had 9 children ; 7 of them
are living ; married a second time, Nov, 15, 1873, to Annie E. Cole-
man, daughter of Isaac Coleman, now living in Arkansas, and has
had 3 more children. Republican "to the back bone." Residence,
sec. 20 ; P. O., Marietta.
John G. Wat.^on, blacksmith; P. O., Seville; was born in Scot-
land in June, 1832; came to this country in 1852 and settled in
Columbus, O. ; from thence moved to Belmont county in 1854, and
to Wheeling, \V. Va., the same year. In 1857 returned to Ohio,
and the same year moved to Warren county, 111., to Avon in 1863,
to Knox county in 1867 and back to Avon in 1869. He then
moved to Harris tp. He was married March 31, 1854, to Eliza-
beth Early of Belmont county, O. She was born March 25, 1835,
in Ireland. There has been 13 children bom to them, only 5 of
whom are living. Both Mr. and Mrs, W. are connected with the
M. E. Church at Avon. Mr. W. was in the employ of the famous
veterinary surgeon. Dr. Gray, of Scotland, for several years, and it
may thus be known that he is a good shoer.
JJolphin Weaver, farmer, emigrated from Kentucky to Peoria Co.,
Ill,, in 1845, and in 1848 settled in Marietta, where he resided 5
years, 4 of which he was Justice of the Peace, In 1853 he moved
to his farm in Harris township, where he has since resided. Sept.
13, 1827, he married Sally Smith, by whom he had 9 boys and 2
girls: of these but two are living. Jan. 26, 1858, he married Maria
Sexton, by whom he has had 11 ciiildren. His son Henry Harri-
son lost his life as a scddier in the last war. Mr. W. is a member of
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 709
theU. B. Church, luul u (jreenbacker. P. O., Seville. His parents
emigrated from Virginia to the very spot in Kentucky where Daniel
Boone was captured, now called Big Blue Licks. His father, how-
ever, was born in Pennsylvania, and died in 1850 in Kentucky, of
cholera.
Jacob B. Welch, farmer and minister, was born in Clay county,
Ind., June 27, 1835, and came to this State in 1852. His father,
James Welch, was a native of Kentucky, and died there the same
voar that Jacol) R. was born, his last illness having been contracted
while there with a drove of horses from Indiana. Shortly afterward
the mother took Jacob R., her only child, on horseback to Kentucky,
to attend to some business affairs. On attaining manhood, Jacob
R. married Almeda, daughter of Gabriel Baughman, of Cass tp.,
Oct. K), 18G2, since which time they have had a family of 5 boys
and 3 girls: 3 boys are living, girls all dead. Sarah Melinda, their
only daughter at the time, was burned to death while watching the
house of a neighbor, to give the latter opportunity to nurse the
little brother of the former, sick with cerebro-s])inal meningitis.
She was an intelligent, obedient and affectionate little girl. 3*lr. and
Mrs. W. are members of the Christian Church. He operates a
coal mine on his farm, in connection with his other business.
George Wefzel, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O., New Philadelphia ;
was born in Cumberland Co., ()., Nov. 12, 1808. His })arents,
George and Catharine (Wunderlich) AVetzel, were of German de-
scent. His father moved with his family to Augusta Co., Va., in
1812, where he spent the remainder of his days and where the sub-
ject of this sketch remained till 1845, when he came to Fulton Co.
and settled upon sec. 30, Harris tj). This land was unimproved and
a portion of it covered with brush which has since grown to timber.
When Mr. W. arrived in Harris tp. all of his earthly j)ossessions con-
sisted of a wife, 7 children, a team and wagon and household furni-
ture. Under such circumstances his chances for remaining ])oor
were very flattering. ]5ut he has been blessed with very industrious
sons, who aided him to improve their now beautiful farm. He re-
ceived a limited education in the subscription schools of Virginia;
was Ca])tain of a volunteer rifle coni]iany in Ohio and afterwards
Captain of a comj)any of artillery. He was married April 21, 1828,
to Sallie Xebergall, who is of German descent and was born in Vir-
ginia, April 11, 1810. They are the parents of 7 boys and 3 girls:
John X., Christoj^her, Geo. W., Wm. H., Ahaz B., Mary C,
Daniel W., Sarah M., Granville L„ and Kliza J., all of whom are
married and live near their old home excej)t A\ ilHam, who lives iu
Kansas. Christopher, Ahaz, and Daniel were in the late war.
Joseph JI. Wheeler, farmer, P. O. ; Marietta ; is a son of James
Wheeler, a native of Pennsylvania, and was born in Fulton Co.
Sept. 11, 1843. He has lived in the county all of his life with the
exception of 3 years spent in the late war and 2 years in Iowa. He
enlisted Aug. 6, 1862, in Co. B, 103d 111. Inf., and participated in
710 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
the following- battles : Vieksburg, Atlanta, Chattanooga, Missionarv
Ridu-e, BentoMville and others; was discharged July 7, 1865. He
married Elizabeth Fjaiinev, April 5, 1866, who has borne him 3
children. Jennie May is the onlv one livinir.
Francis M. WiU'muis, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O., Bushnell ;
is a son of John Williams and was born in xVdams Co., O., Dec. 1,
1833. He came to Hlinois in 1835 and settled near Rockford, which
at that time was but one house. From there he moved to McLean
county, and then to this county and lived here 3 months before he
saw a white person except his own company. The family pounded
corn in an iron kettle, and ground buckwheat in a cott'ee-mill. The
The tirst time John Williams went to mill after coming here he went
80 miles and was gone 3 weeks. When a boy Mr. W. often played
^vith the Indian boys. Mrs. Williams' grandfather was stolen by the
Indians when only 7 years old and taken to Ohio and kept for 20
years. F. M. Williams ^vas married to Sarah Foster Oct. 8, 1862.
She is a native of Fairview township. They have a family of 7
children, 3 boys and 4 girls. Mr. W. has held various local official
positions and at present represents Harris tp. in the Board of Super-
visors.
F. H. Yonnn, farmer, was born in Clay Co., Ind., Feb. 29, 1852 ;
brought to Illinois by his parents in 1854; resides on sec. 17, Har-
ris tp. ; married Maria Snook Aug. 31, 1871; they have had 5
children, of whom 3, Solomon W., Henry S. and Effie L. are living.
Democrat. P. ()., New Philadelphia, McDonough county. Mr.
Yocum's father (Solomon) ^vasborn in Kentucky, settled in Indiana,
and now resides in Sheridan county. Mo.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a full and complete list of the Supervisors,
Clerks, Assessors and Collectors serving in this township since its
organization :
SUPERVISORS.
George Bam ford 1850-51 George Bam ford 1865
James Manlev 1852 ('has. Wilson 1860-6"
Amos Morcy 1853-54 John W. Dinimitt 1868
Joshua Hancv 1855 G. \V. (ireeno 18ii9
Charles Howard 1856 F.M.Williams 1871-72
George Bamford 1857 Chas. Howard 1873-75
Charles Howard 1858-9 E. B. Tlirockmorton 1876-77
Charles Wilson 1860-64 F. M. Williams 1878-79
TOWN CLERKS.
Jackson MeCaughey 1850-53 Samuel Lutz 1871
D. T. Morgan 1854 55 J. M. Wallace 1872
Jackson MeCaughev 185(i-6l G.W.Greene 1873
Chas. Howard ." 1862-63 H.M.Harrison 1874
Jas. McCance 1864 Danirl ('hainl)ers 1875
G. W. Greene 1865-67 S. B. Howard 1876
Wm. F. W.dl.iee 1S68 Daniel ( 'hambers 1877
T.B. Smith 1869 Geo. W. Greene 1878-79
G. W. Gnene, ) .n.,^
J. M. Wallace, / ^^'^
iriSTOr.Y OF FULTON COUNTY. 711
ASSESSORS.
Chas. Wilson 1850-52 Richard Osborn 1865
Joshua Haney 1858-54 Win. Wilson 1866
James Maniev 1855 Wm. McDermott 1867
Richard Oslxirn 1856 John Hobbs 1868
G. W. ("reeni' 1857 Joseph Jackson 1869
D. H. ('raml)let 18.58-59 L. M. Donelly 1870-72
John Drunnnond 1860 Joseph McCance 1878
John Williams 18()1 E.B.Throckmorton 1874-75
John A. Henslev 1 (>•? Geo. W. Greene 1876-77
W. D. Bevans...". 1868 John Hanser 1878
Joshua Haney 1864 E.B.Throckmorton 1879
COLLECTORS.
John Harris 1850-51 Jacob Manley 1867
T. H. McElroy 1852 NeAvton Williams 1868
John Harris 1S.53 Fantlerov Jones 1869
John Davis 1854 AVm. McCance 1870
T. H. McElroy 18.55-59 Wm. Mancy 1871
Richard Osborn 18(50 James Osborn 1872-73
Wm. D.Bevans 1861 Pratt Dimmitt 1874-75
Thomas H. McElroy 1862 T: H. McElroy 1876
Wm. D.Bevans 1863 Alfred Coons 1877-78
Samuel Lutz 1864-65 Joseph McCance 1879
E. F. Osborn 1866
^^^z^
ISABEL TOWNSHIP.
It was in this township that the first habitation for a white man
in Fulton county was erected. Over three score years ago Dr.
Davison came from his Eastern home and located in the dense
forest upon the bank of Spoon river in this township. How
long he had lived here before he was discovered by John Eveland
is not known, but doubtless for many years. Dr. Davison, who is
spoken of in the first cha])ter of this work, was the first white man
to make iiis home between the Missis!<i))pi and Illinois rivers. He
was leading the life of a hermit, and as soon as settlers be-
gan to be numerous here, he gathered his effects into a little boat,
floated down Spoon river to the Illinois, and paddled his way up
that stream till he reached Starved Rock, near the present city of
Peru, where he landed, lived a few years and died.
This township was settled very early by others besides Mr. Davi-
son. As early as 1822 James and Charles Gardner came from the
"Sangamo country " and located in Isabel township upon section 34.
Here Mr. James Gardner lived until his death, which occurred
only a few years ago. Ilis brotlier returned to Sangamon county,
where he died.
The townshij) contains some fine farm land, and under as high
state of cultivation as any in the ('ounty. To illustrate how rajiidly
timber has grown since the country Mas first settled, and how un-
fi)unded the fear of the pioneers that the country Mould soon be
barren of timber, we will speak of a striji of timber upon ^Ir. Dun-
can's farm. At one tinu' since they came there the ground from
Avhich now tower lofty fi)rest trees was used a grain field. It was
])l<i\ved and cultivated as other parts of the farm for a while, when
it was left idle. Trees soon started up, and now some are 60 to 75
feet in height. From these few acres of timber rails enough could
be obtained to fence his large farm into o-acre fields.
As early as l(S2i) a saw-inill was erected. Then the well-known
Duncan's mill Mas put uj).
Duncan's Mills is a small place of business M-ith postoffice,
on section 8 and on Spoon river, deriving its name from the grist-
mill at that ])oint fitrmerly OM'ned and operated by George Duncan,
an early settler here and a very highly respected citizen. From
1840 to 185o, perhaps for a greater length of time, his was the
largest grist-mill Mithin a radius of 15 or 20 miles.
Point Isabel is an old shipj)ing point on the Illinois river, at the
HISTOKY OF FULTON COUNTY. 713
mouth of Spoon river and directly opposite Havana, being on the
southeast quarter of section 29. It is now the southern terminus
of the Fulton County Xarrow-tnuige railway soon to be finished to
Fairview, and thus the place will have enlarged o])jiortunities for
trade.
Otto is a postoffice on section 30, on Otter Creek.
PERSONA L- SK KT( 11 H ISTORY.
Tiie jiersonal history of any comnuinity contains the most inter-
esting features of its history. We s})eal<; of the prominent peoj)le
and early settlers as ])art of the history of the township.
Jease Benson, whose j)ortrait we give in this volume, was born at
Avon, Ivivingston Co., N. Y., Dec. 2, 1804, and there grew uj) to
manhood. In earlv life he was eno;ineer in the construction of the
New York ct Erie canal. He first came to Fulton county with
Moses Freeman in March, 1828, and after looking at the country
returned home the same year. Sept. 15, he joined a company com-
]M)sed of Isaac Benson, Moses Lewis, Alexander and Richard W.
Freeman (including the families of Moses and Lewis Freeman),
built a boat and came to Illinois by way of the Alleghany, Ohio and
Mississip])i rivers, arriving in St. Louis in Nov., 1828, where they
remained all winter; the following spring they came up the Illinois
river, laiuling at the mouth of Spoon river April 15, 1829; the fol-
lowing spring he took atrip to the north ; while absent he hel])ed to
re-build Fort Dearborn in Chicago when there were only a black-
smith shop and a very few other buildings in the place. About
1831, in company witli the l^reemans, he built (piitc an extensive
mill, on sec. (5, Isabel tp., for grinding and sawing, on Sjjoon river
near where the old Hackelton bridge used to stand ; but a big
freshet and the use of quicksilver from the hands of some ill-disposed
j^erson washed the foundation from un(h'r the building so much that
they were in danger of losing their valuable structure, when they
removed the building to Beardstown, a ])art of the machinery Ix'ing
used in a mill on Otter creek where they operated successfully for a
number of years. ^Ir. Benson and the Freemans made brick of
which the ]>rcsent court-house was built.
Mr. lienson was first married in 1834 to ]\Iiss Mary W. Hackel-
ton, sister of Maj. Hackelton, an ollicci- in the Mexican ami l)hick
Hawk wars. She died June 3, 18.')5. His second marriage oc-
curred Jan. 1, 1842, with Miss Mary A. Hcndcc. This lady died,
and he again nuirried, in 1851, to ^liss Harriet E. Ilendee. His
third and last wife has been dead four or five years. He was the
father of 12 children, 10 of whom are living.
Mr. Benson was an Adventist in his religious views. He was
widely known throughout this county and greatly honored. Mr.
Benson held many local offices; indeed he was not free from official
responsibilities for perhaps a third of a century. Thirty years ago
he was one of the three Associate Judges of the county ; was also
714 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
frequently elected Assessor. To this day his efficiency in these sta-
tions are remembered and commented upon by the ])ioneers as a
pleasant memory of pioneer lite. Socially he was remarkable for
his genial and hospitable characteristics. He was attached to his
home and his chiUlren, as their grief at his death most pointedly
attest. He had been in failing health for many months, caused by
falling from a load of hay ; but on the day of his death seemed
stronger and more hopeful than he had been in many days. March
27, 1879, he was sitting in his chair talking pleasantly with a neigh-
bor and his children, when he desired to lie down ; he declined
assistance as he walked to his bed and lay down; within five
minutes he was dead. His remains were buried at Freeman's
Cemetery.
G. W. Brewer was born in Indiana Oct. 28, 1838, the native State
also of his parents, Bincent and Elizabeth Brewer. He came to
this county in 1850, and married Mary Ann Peggs at Otto in 1861,
who was born in England in 1839, and they have had 4 children, of
whom 3 are living. Farmer. Republican. Sec. 30, Isabel tp. P.
O., Otto.
Jacob Brouni was born in Ohio Feb. 24, 1826, the son of George
and Xaucy Brown, of the same State ; in 1848 Mr. B. came by way
of the rivers to Fulton county ; worked for S4 to 87 a month before
coming here and 810 to $15 since, until in three years he laid up
$250 and owned a horse ; worked at fanning two years and bought
80 acres of land on 7 years' time, at §750, and paid for it before this
time expired; then bought another 80 acres at 81,600 and paid for
it in less than two years; in 1863 he purchased 80 acres more, at
82,400 cash ; since that time he has bought 760 acres more. Aug.
23, 1853, he married Priscilla Cornell at Lewistown, who was a
native of Meigs Co., O., Oct. 26, 1834; and they have had 10 chil-
dren, some of them grown. Has been Highway Commissioner. Is
a stock-raiser, sec. 21, Isabel tp. Republican. P. O., Duncan's
Mills. Portraits of himself and wife are given in this volume.
Jane K. Brown was born Feb. 13, ISIO, in New Jersey, daughter
of Joseph and Esther Gordon, natives of Pennsylvania ; in 1829
married Charles Brown in Ohio, who was born in Cincinnati, Ohio,
Jan. 5, 1809; came to Fulton county in 1831 ; discouraged, they re-
turned East, l)ut before unloading the wagon concluded they could
do better out West, and back to Fulton county they came and set-
tled on sec. 20, Isabel township, where they have been reasonably
successful. They brought up 14 children, 10 of whom are still liv-
ing. Mr. Brown died Dec. 21, 1878, leaving her with but one
child at home, a vounjj ladv 21 vears of agre. Mrs. B. is carrvinsc
on the farm where her husband introduced the first Durham cattle
of the county. P. O., Otto.
Thomas A. Broirn was born in this township June 19, 1854, son
of Jacob and Priscilla Brown, the former a native of Harrison Co.,
O., and the latter of Meigs Co., O. Our subject received a fair ed-
<
•Vf?iK^---
^^
Q
^1
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 717
ucation, has filled offices of trust and is at present School Treasurer
and Town Clerk. He manages for himself and father, on sec. 26,
one of the nicest farms in the township. Re])ublican.
Geo. W. Clark was born in (Pallia county, O., Aug. 27, 1847. In
lcS49 the family moved to Indianaj)olis, next year back to Gallia
Co., then to Indianapolis again, where they remained till 1<S54; then
started for Chickasaw county, Iowa, with 5 yoke of oxen ; lost
two of his children in Peoria by sickness, but Avent on to Cedar
river and entered a tract of land ; the Indians scaljMug a few natives
in his neighborhood, Mr. Clark took his family back to Indianapolis
in 1.S57, and soon to Gallia county, O., again ; in 1858 they emi-
grated to Schuyler county, Mo., and in 1863 he was killed by
guerrillas; the remainder of the family removed to Adair countv.
Mo., where they all remain, except (ico. W., who enlisted in Co. E,
42d Mo. Inf. ; in 1869, married Julia A. Smith, born in 1846 in
Fulton county. 111. Mr. Clark is now in the general merchandise
and drug business at Duncan Citv.
JI(ir(/(nrf Coleman, residing on sec, 18, Isabel tp., was born in
1819 in Va., daughter of Wm. and INIary Hawkins, natives also of
Va. Mrs. C. first came to Tazewell Co., 111., where she married
Mr. Coleman in 1843, who died several years ago. Thev had 9
children. Mr. C. is successfully carrying on her farm. P. ().,
Duncan's Mills.
John Craig was born Nov. 18, 1858, in Isabel township, son of
Wm. and Elizabeth Craig, the former a native of Ohio and the lat-
ter of Indiana; in 1844 the}'" came and settled here. John obtained
a good education and is now carrying on the farm with his widowed
mother. Sec. 17. P. O., Duncan's Mills.
William Fanv's, farmer and stock-raiser, see. 15; P. ()., Duncan's
Mills; was born May 4, 1819, in INIissouri, son of John and Eliza-
beth Farris, natives of Virginia. The family first settled in Frank-
lin Co., 111., in 1821 ; in 1828 they came to Fulton county, and
have lived here ever since. Mr. Farris has been Commissioner of
Highways, Supervisor, Assessor, etc., in Isabel tp. He is yet un-
married, but has a nice farm.
Ira M. Fish was born in New York in 1826, son of Moses and
Debbie Fish; emigrated first to Ohio, then to tliis county in 1840;
in 1867 (he being then 41 years of age) he married Mary I. Vaughn,
who was born near Vermont, this county. They have three chil-
dren. Mr. F. is a farmer, on a nice tract of land, sec. 16. P. ().,
Duncan's Mills.
F. 31. Fonfrh Avas born in Sangamon Co., 111., in 183."), the son
of John and Rhoda (Ray) Foutch, the former a native of Ken-
tucky. The family emigrated to this county in 1835, where the
subject of this sketch was educated in the common schools. He
has served the township of Isabel acccj)tably as Assessor and Col-
lector. In 1854 he married Elizabeth Leadmon, a native of Indi-
ana, and they have had 5 children, 4 of whom are living. Mr.
43
718 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Foutch was a merchant for G years, but is now a farmer, on sec. 27 ;
P. O., Duncan's Mills.
John Foutch was born in Kentucky in 1806; when of age he
married Rhoda Ray ; came and settled on sec. 22, Isabel tp., in
1827, where he still resides; commenced poor here, doing most of
the cultivating with a hoe, having only an ox team, etc., but is noAv
a wealthy man, all owing to perseverance and economy. He has
had 13 children, of whom 12 are living. Nine of the children
were by his second wife, Lucretia, nee Farris. Mr. F.'s father,
John Foutch, was born in Virginia, went to Kentucky, married
Nancy Wherrott, moved to Indiana in 1807, to Sangamon Co., 111.,
in 1823, where he died in 1845, Of his 5 boys and 5 girls our
subject is the eldest son. P. O., Havana. His portrait appears in
this work.
John H. Foutch, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 23; P. O., Havana.
Mr. F. was born in Isabel township in 1848, son of John and Lu-
tetia Foutch. In 1878 he married Anna Shirrel, born in AVhite
Co., 111., in 1856, and a member of the Christian Church, They
have one child.
Dexter Freeman. Alex. Freeman came with his family to Isabel
township when this country was a wilderness, undergoing all the
hardships that other pioneers had to suffer, and now resides in
Pleasant tp. Dexter was born Jan. 5, 1843, in Isabel tp., where
he still resides, a prosperous farmer and stock-dealer, owning 240
acres of land. June 11, 18()5, he married Mary A. Lt)ckard : 3
boys and 3 girls are their offspring. Mrs, F. was born in Ohio in
1845, and is a member of the Christian Church. Mr. F. is a Free-
mason. P. O., Otto.
James Garffner was born in Isabel tp. in 1850, son to James and
Delia Gardner, natives of New York and Ohio respectively. In
1823 they emigrated to sec. 34 of this township, where the subject
of this sketch now resides. He is a Republican. P. O,, Havana.
In 1874 he married Martha K. Hukill, born in this township in
l''^52. They have one child living and two dead. They have a good
farm on sec. 34, and from their residence is seen one of the grandest
views of natural scenery in this region of countrv. One can see
into Schuyler, Cass and Mason counties, looking over the Illinois
river vallcv with its htnor and weird
Bam is of Idnish ^reen
And silvery sbeeu.
Jame.<i M. iMnc was born in Pleasant tp, Feb, 19, 1840, son of
Relaford and Catherine Lane ; married Nancy Lane in March, 1870,
who was born in Isabel tp, in 1S42, They have had one child.
They occupy the old home on sec. 29, Isabel tp. Mr. Lane is a
Democrat. His father served in the Black Hawk war. ]Mrs. L,
belongs to the Christian Church. P. ()., Otto,
Charles G. Matthews was burn in Fulton county in 1843, and is
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 710
the son of Montgomery and Alice Matthews. He served 3 years
in the late war, in Co. I, 85th I. V. I., and participated in the bat-
tles of Perryville, Stone River, Chickamanga, Mission Ridge and
otliors ; and was with Sliernian on his march to the sea. He was
married in October, 18(io, to Eliza Smith, who was born in Ohio in
1848. They have had 4 children, of whom 3 are living. Sec. 22,
Isabel tp. P. O., Dnncan's Mills.
3Iontgomcnj 3Iaffhei('s, former, sec. 15; P. O., Duncan's Mills. A'
native of Greenbrier Co., Ya., born in 1811, son to Townsend and
Nancy Matthews, also natives of Va. The family moved to Gallia
Co., O., in 1815, where Montgomery married Alice T. AValker in
1836, a native of Fayette Co., O. Emigration — in 1838 to Sullivan
Co., Ind., in 1840 to Fulton Co., in 1845 moved to Wisconsin, and
in 1849 back to this county. They have had 9 children, 5 of whom
are living. Asa former Mr. Matthews is successful. Republican.
Robert G. 3IuUca, sec. 15, Isabel tp. ; P. O. Duncan's Mills; was
born in Cole Co., Mo., Aug. 27, 1837, the son of Jesse and Par-
mclia Mulica, the former a a native of New Jersey and the latter of
Tennessee. He iirst removed with his parents to Franklin Co.,
Mo., and afterward to this county in 1845, where he grew to man-
hood. He served in the late war, in Co. I, 85th I. V. I., nearly 3
years; enlisted Aug. 14, 1862, and was discharged June 20, 18H5.
He was with Sherman on his noted march to the sea, and partici-
pated in the battles of the Atlanta campaign, and others. Mr.
Mulica has filled the offices of Town Clerk two terms, Supervisor
one term, and is at present Com'r of Highways. He was mar-
ried, Alay 1, 1858, to Isabel Farris, by whom he had 10 children:
9 are living. Mrs. Mulica was born in Fulton Co., Sept. 9, 1840.
Mr. M. is a Greenbacker.
Bernard Rogers was born in 1844, in Lebanon, Warren Co., O.,
son of James H. and Ann Rogers, the former a native of New
Jersey and the latter of Ohio. Emigration — in 1855 to Mason C\).,
111., and in 1874 to Fulton. Bernard is a graduate of liryant &
Stratton's College, and has taught school considerably. During the
war he served in the (Quartermaster's Department of the Cumber-
land. In 1867, at Havana, he married Anna M. Buck, born in
1844 in Mason Co. She is a member of the M. E. Church, and has
been a school-teacher. Mr. R. owns 190 acres of land. Sec. 14.
Democrat. P. O., Havana.
WiUiam Rose was born in Fulton Co., 111., in 1853, the son of
Barnabas and Lizzie Rose, natives of England. Mr. Rose received
a common education, and at the age of 21 married Miss Martha
Vaughn in 1874; she was born in 1856, in Fulton Co., III.; they
have had one child. Mr, R, is a farmer with good prospect of success.
Isabel tp., sec. 19. P. ()., Otto".
I). M. S/iipp was born Oct. 11, 1832, in Ky., son of Walker and
Rebecca Shipp, also natives of Kentucky ; came^o Illinois in 1855,
stopping in Richland Co., then to Menard, then to Mason, and finally
720 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
in this tp. in 1859 ; formerly an operator of a saw-mill, now a farmer ;
has been School Director and Trustee, Road Commissioner, etc.,
and has alwavs been an influential man. He built the first levee on
Spoon river. At the age of 20 he married Mary Seay, a native of
Ky., born in 1834, and they have had 3 children, one only now
living. Sec. 27, Isabel tp.. P. O., Havana.
Elizabeth Sterling was born in Ohio in 1818, the daughter of Henry
and Caroline Bolender, both deceased. She came with her father
bv the rivers, in 1839, to this county, landing at the mouth of Spoon
riVer. She was married to Mr. Sterling in 1843; they had 6 chil-
dren, of whom 5 are living. Sec. 27, Isabel tp. P. O., Duncan's
Mills.
Harmon Thomas was born Dec. 17, 1852, in Fulton Co., 111., the son
of Jesse and Martha Thomas, natives of Ohio. Mr. T. owns the old
home farm where he was born. In the year 1875 he married Sarah
H. Warner, a native of Indiana, born in 1853. Mr. T.'s occupation
is farming. Sec. 21.
Jesse Thomas, Isabel tp. ; P. O., Duncan's Mills; was born in
Ohio in 1833, the son of John and Elizabeth Thomas, natives of
Ohio. His father is deceased. He received a common-school edu-
cation, and came to Fulton Co. in 1843. He was married to Martha
Landon in 1853, who was born in Ohio in 1836. They have had
11 children, of whom 10 are living. Mr. T. is a well-to-do farmer
and stock-raiser. Republican.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a list of the township officials serving since the
organization of the township, together with the years of serving :
SUPERVISORS.
Jeremiah Farris 1850-51 Win. Farris 1S66-69
Rohert Carter 1852-53 Josiali Hendeo 1870
Wm. Craig 1854-55 T. B. Duncan 1871
Alex. Freeman 1856-57 John Lane 1872
Robert Carter 1858 Rohert K. Walker 1873
Alex. Freeman 185!) James M. Lane 1874-75
C. J. Dilworth 18(i0 Rohi'rt Ci. MuHca 1876 _
John Lane 1801-64 James Foutch 1877-79
Wm. Craig 18(55
TOWN CLERKS.
Jesse Benson 1850-59 Robert G. Mulica 1872-73
Wm. Craig I860 Jesse Benson 1874-77
Jesse Benson 18(51-69 Stephen J. Benson 1878
Rolan<i C. Benson 1870 Thomas Brown 1879
Hugh Murrey 1871
•V
^y
-'*v^^^
-«»r-
* -i<*.,i
ISABEL
LiBRAfly
Of THE
' VERSiTy Of ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
723
ASSESSORS.
John Farris I80O
Robert. Carter 1851
Win. Craig 18o2-53
George Duncan 1854
Elija Barnes 1855-56
Uriah B. Sloan 1857
Davids. Rav 1858
John H. Diincan 1859
John Graham 18 0-61
Alexander Beckelhvmer 1862-63
Wm. Farris '. 1864
James Fouteh 1865 '
James M.Smith 1866
Fenton McCartry 1867
Alex. Beckelhymer 1868
Charles Brown 1869-70
TliomasLandon 1871
Wm. Farris 1872
Dudley M. Shipp 1873
Wm. Farris 1874-78
Frank M. Fouteh 1879
COLLECTORS.
John Farris 1850
Lewis Freeman 1851-52
Charles M. Geering 1853
Hiram Shields 1854/
Charles M. Geering 1855
Thomas Rigdon 1856
John Graham 1857
W. G. B. Kellv 1858
David S. Rav 1859
John Lane...'. 1860
Josiah Hendee 1861
Joseph Stever 1862
I. P. Ames 1863
Alex. Beckelhymer 1864
John H. Duncan 1865
L P. Ames 1866-68
Abraham Leonard 1869
James P. Smith 1870
Francis M. Fouteh 1871
John I. Holmes 1871
Hugh Murrev 1872
Francis M. Fouteh 1873
Thomas P. Kerney 1874
F. M. Fouteh 1875-78
IraG. Graham 1879
JOSHUA TOAVXSPIIP.
Perhap> Fulton county cannot bonstof a better ao;ncultural town-
ship than thi.'? one. It is bounded u}>on the north by Fairview, the
east by Canton, south by Putman and upon the west by Deerfield.
The first settler in Joshua township was Joshua Moore, who im-
mi<2;ratet do Sani>amon county, Illinois, in 1819, and to Fulton county
in 1<S24. Mr. Moore settled on the place well known as the Moore
farm, west of Canton five miles. Mr. Moore was accompanied by
his son-in-law, John Walters, who was killed at Still man's defeat in
1832. Mr. ^[oore was a Methodist, and at his house were held
many of the earliest Meth(xlist meetino:s. Here, to such ])ioneers as
David W. Barnes, the Sergeants, the Bufiums, John Hannan and
his family, old Father Fraker, John Owens, Jacob Ellis, and a few
others. Rev. Randall, Smith L. Robinson (the one-eyed preacher)
and Peter Cartwright would ])reach sermons full of primitive fire
and religious zeal. At his house were held the class-meetings and
love-feasts, and here were held the merry-makings wherein those
present had rarer sport than is known to the silk and velvet gentry
of the present fast age.
The story of Mr. Moore's first visit to the county is related by
Mr. Henry Andrews, of Canton. It will be remembered, as spoken
of in the first chapter, that Capt. David W. Barnes M'as the first
settler in the northern part of Fulton county. He erected his cabin
about two miles and a half north of Canton. It was customary and
exj)ected in those early days for men who <\-ere "prospecting"
through the country to put uj) at the cabins of , the settlers, where
they were treated with the greatest hospitality and shown all over
the country and the best quarter sections pointed out to them. This
was all done without remuneration. One day in August, 182-*), two
men stopped at liarnes' cabin. These were Joshua Moore and Levi
Ellis. Barnes invited them in the most cordial manner to make his
house their head(|uarters while in the neighborhood, and the invita-
tion was cheerfully acccjited. Mrs. Barnes announced to her hus-
band that the meat was out that evening, and that she did not know
what she was going to do for something to eat. As meat and corn-
bread or hominy was about the extent of the pioneer bill of fare at
that period, this announcement was received with some consterna-
tion. Barnes had no stock to kill, and had neglected hunting, from
the pressure of his full work. Ceorge Matthews was at that time
working at Barnes', and in the morning he undertook to find some
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 725
game. He started out oast of Barnes' cabin, and liad been gone
but a few moments before the report of his gun was heard, and his
halloo for help soon folh:>wed it. The whole family started for the
scene of action, anxiousto know the result. Matthews had shot and
killed a fine doe within a short distance of the house, and was pro-
ceeding to skin it. This gave Mrs. Barnes relief, and she furnished
her guests an abundance of veuison during the balance of their
stay.
Moore purchased land in what is now Joshua township, and
gave the township its name. P^liis afterwards moved to Elllisville,
which township was also named in his honor. He built a mill at
the present site of P^Uisville. Both of them were prominent and
useful men, and possessed of great influence among the people at
that early day. Moore died in 1853.
Mr. Levi (i. Ellis first settled in this township and erected al)out
the first mill in the county. A few years later he moved to EUis-
ville and Joseph H. Gardiner bought his farm and mill in Joshua.
Mr. Ellis had erected a steam saw and grist mill in Joshua, the first
in the township and in all probability the first steam mill in the
county.
Mr. Ellis had previously run a water mill on Put creek, which
was swept away by flood in 1835. Mr. Gardiner did a large busi-
ness and for many years shipped flour to New York city. He made
flat-boats upon which he would float his produce to St. Louis, start-
ing from Copperas creek landing. After tiiese boats were unloaded
he would sell them to go further south. At one time he built a
thirty-ton keel-boat, and carried it on wheels to Coj)peras creek,
where it was launched. When the Illinois river was low and he
could not run a boat to St. I^ouis he would take a team of four
yoke of oxen and a team of horses, and put on about 100 bushels
of wheat and start for Chicago, where he would get 60 cents to 62|
cents per bushel, when wheat would only bring 25 cents at home.
It would consume a month's time to make these trips. He would
return with dry -goods and other necessaries. These tri[)s ifs we may
well suppose were very tedious. The roads in some places crossed
sloughs and were diflicult to get over. At such places they would
be obliged to hitch sixteen to eighteen yoke of oxen to one wagon
and pull it across, the wagon sinking often to the box. This they
were able to do as there would be generally from fifty to one hun-
dred teams in a train going to market. They camped out on the
prairies every night. They turned their oxen out to graze but tied
them up at dark. Mr. (iardiner said it seldom cost any money to
make the trip, but on one occasion there had been a prairie fire and
in consequence they were obliged to buy corn from the settlers
along the route. This cost him about $3 for the round trip, consum-
ing a month of time.
■26 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
BIOGRAPHIES.
We give in connection with the history of Joshua, indeed as a
part of its history, personal sketches of its leading citizens and old
settlers of the township :
John W. Abbott, deceased, was born in the Keystone State Dec.
12, 181-2, and came to this county as early as 1838. In 1846 he
bought land and settled in Farniington tp., where he lived until
1865, when he bought a farm in Joshua tp. and moved upon it, re-
maining there until his decease, which occurred April 10, 1877.
During all his life-time he took a deep interest in educational mat-
ters, aidiny; the same both morallv and financiallv. He accumu-
hitcd a large property, leaving an estate of 800 acres of land. His
widow still resides upon the homestead. He was married in Farni-
ington tp. to Christina Babbitt in 1837. She was a daughter of
Daniel Bal)bitt of Washington Co., Pa., who settled in this county
in 1827. Two of the family, JaCob and Wm. Babbitt, served in the
Black Hawk war. Of the large family of 14 children, only 6 are
living, 3 of whom reside with their widowed mother on the farm.
The names of the children are: Daniel, Jacob, John W., Nancy C,
Geo. B. and Jeremiah. Those deceased are: Alexander, died at the
age of 25 ; Sarah L., at the age of 21 ; Stephen A., at the age of 17,
and Elizabeth, Cynthia, Silas, Wm. A. and Bethany died in infancy.
Of those living, Daniel and Jacob are attorneys at law in Canton.
The children were all born on the farm homestead near the Dunkard
church in Farniington tp. Mrs. Abbott was a native of Scott Co.,
Ind., and is the only one of the pioneer family of Daniel Babbitt
living in this county.
Shu/lcton W. Ash, farmer, sec. 23, Joshua tp. ; was born in Mor-
gan Co., Va., March 5, 1834. His father was a farmer and Single-
ton worked also on the farm up to 1851, when he with the rest of
the family came AVest and settled in Joshua tj)., Fulton Co., 111.
On ]\IarPh 3, 1856, he was married to Mary Jane, daughter of
Jose})h H. and Alargarctte Gardiner of this township. They have 3
children, — Charles Eugene, Lorin Melville and Lucy Ann. Mr.
Ash is a Democrat.
John Berger, miller, the son of Jasper and Gertie (Wyckoff)
Berger, was born in Hunterdon Co., X. J., Aug. 2, 1808. He
landed in this county Nov. 20, 1841. He has been engaged in ag-
ricultural })ursuits most of his life and at present owns a farm on
sec. 1. Mr. B. and his son are the proprietors of the grist-mill at
Fairview. Since this mill has come into their hands it has gained
a good reputation and is doing a fine business. Mr. B. was married
Dec. 10, 1S33; his wife died Oct. 4, 18()5. This union was blessed
with 8 children, — 3 boys and 5 girls, only 3 daughters and one son
are living, all of whom are married. Mr. B. has been a member of
the Reformed Church since 1838. P. ()., Fairview.
■■•■■ , \ ■ -'■ ,■ (.-
\,'-^
JOSHUA Tw>.
X
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 720
John W. Boiccn, former, sec. 4; P. ()., Fairview ; was born in
Franklin Co., Pa., Nov. 20, 1840, and came to this county in 18()1.
He was educated in the common schools of his native State. Dur-
ing the dark days of our country's peril he enlisted in Co. 1), lO.'^rd
III. Inf., under Capt. AVyckofP. He was in the famous battle of
Mission Ridoe, and took part in some 20 battles and skirmishes.
He returned home and in 1867, Oct. 17, was married to Anna C.
Davis. They have 4 children, — 3 boys and one girl,
Egbert G. Boi/uton, farmer, sec. 31; P. O., Fiatt; was born in
Rensellaer Co,, N. Y., and came to this county in 1836, where he
attended the common schools and entered Hedding College, Abing-
don. In 1854 he was united in marriage. His son, V. C. Boynton,
was born Sept. 30, 1856, and has taught school very successfully 4
terms. He is a member of the M. E. Church.
E. L. Boi/nton. This aged veteran was born in New Ham])shire,
Aug. 31, 1796. His parents were Joel and Betsy (Wallace) Boyn-
ton, both of whom died in the East. The subject of this sketch
came to Fulton Co. in 183(), and settled on sec. 31, Joshua tp.,
where he still lives. He has served as Su})ervisor, and in New
York was aj)i)ointed by the Governor to inspect beef and pork.
He was united in marriage with Elizabeth Fancheir in 1817. She
was born March 21, 1793. They had born to them 9 children, — 5
sons and 4 daughters. Mr. B. owns 270 acres of land and is en-
gaged in farming; P. O., Fiatt.
Charles S. Brokuw, farmer, sec. 5 ; P. O., Fairview ; is a native of
Somerset Co., N. J., where he was born Feb. 14, 1822, and is the son
of William and Helen Brokaw. He arrived in Fulton Co. June
16, 1846, and l)egan farming, and his efforts have been crowned with
success. He has served his district as a Director for 22 years; his
township as Supervisor for 7 years. Collector 4 years and Assessor
one year. He was united in marriage with Miss Jane Ten Eyck
Feb. 11, 1844, the ceremony being perf)rmed at North Branch, N.
J., by Rev. Cam])bell. They are the parents of 7 children, — 4 boys
and 3 girls : all the daughters are dead. The oldest son married
Mary Voorhees and resides in McLean Co., 111. In 1851 Mr. B.
united with the Reformed Church.
f^imo)) S. Brohmr, farmer, sec;. 16 ; P. O., Fairview. The father of
of Simon Brokaw, Isaac, was born Jan. 21, 1800; his mother, Allettia
Brokaw, was born Oct. I, 1804. He was born in New Jersey, April
22, 1836, and was brought to this county 3 years later. He was mar-
ried March 25, 1858, to Louisa Beams, who has borne him 7 children,
whose names and dates of births are as follows: Isaac N., born in
1859; Mary Allettia, Julv 17, I860; John Peirsol, March 26, 1863;
May R., April 24, 1867;' Maggie L., Nov. 16, 1869; Minnie, July
13, 1872, and Blanche, Sept. 28, 1875.
B. F. Brown. This gentleman, who is engaged in farming on sec.
28, was born in Franklin Co., N. Y., Jan. 22, 1828. His father,
Solomon Brown, of Vermont, died in 1839 ; his mother, Clarissa
730 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTV.
Brown, »fc Blancharcl, died in lS74or '75. B. F. was brought to
this county in 1835. He was married in this township to Louisa
Scott in 1853. Mrs. B. was born Jan. 25, 1829, A son and daughter
were born to them, — Amanda and Thomas Henry. The hitter died
wlien c»nly one year of age. Mr. and Mrs. B. are members of the
Free-will Baptist Church and their daughter of the Methodist Church.
Mr. B. owns 220 acres of hind, which he has made by his own en-
ergy and exertions. His postoffice is Fiatt.
David Bt^hrc, farmer, was born in Chirk Co., Ky., in 1<S17. His
parents, Thomas and Rachel (Hagans) Bybee, were native Kentuck-
ians. Mr. B. has no school education, having never attended school
over 2 or 3 months. He was in military service in California. He
has been married twice, — the first tijne in Fulton Co. to Margaret
Spencer; the second time in Clark Co., Ky., to Margaret A. Ballard,
and has children nearly 40 years old. He crossed the plains to Cali-
fornia in 1850. At present owns just 1,000 acres of land in Illinois
and 4 houses and lots in Canton, for 2 of which he paid S7,000
apiece. P. O., Fiatt.
Chester B. Churchill, agriculturist, sec. 27 ; P. O., Canton ; was
born in Oneida Co., N. Y., April 14, 1824. His father, Chas. B.
Churchill, of Connecticut, died April 17, 1878. His mother, Eliza-
beth Churchill, »r^ Hubbard, died in Fulton Co., July 21, 18()7.
Chester B. was united in marriage with Catharine M. Purkle Oct.
30, 1848, at Farmington. Mrs. C. was born Oct. 3, 1828. They
have had a family of 5) children, — 7 boys and 2 girls. He is a mem-
ber of the Christian Clinch.
Leonard IL Churchill, farmer, sec. 32: P. O., Canton; was born
in Boonville, N. Y., April 28, 1820, and is the son of Charles B.
and Elizal)eth (Hubbard) Churchilll, who came to the county in
IS'M) and settled in the Hickey neighborhood, Putman tj). In 1848,
in Canton tp., Mr. C. was united in marriage with Miss Harriet
^IrBroom, who was born in 1831. There have Ijcen born to them 10
children, — 7 boys and 3 girls. Mr. C. .-tarted in life at hard work.
He first worked for Jacob Emery. He now owns 244 acres of land,
all of which he made by his own exertions. He ran a threshing-
machine for 25 years.
Samuel Cunninr/ham, farmer, sec. 33 ; P. O., Canton ; Avas born
in Fayette Co., Pa., Feb. 16, 1801 ; his parents were William and
Xancy Cunningham. He came West, to Ohio, as early as 1828,
and 7 years later came to Illinois. He received only such educati(ui
as could be triuued at the common schools of his bovhood davs.
He now owns 272 acres of land, all of which he has made himself.
In 1828, March 25, he was married, and his wife bore him 3 sons,
Abbott, Jesse and John, two of whom arc living.
Geo. IF, Klli.'<. This gentleman, who is engaged in farming upon
sec. 24, is a native of Fulton Co., having been born in Canton tp.
May 22, 1834. His j>arents, Isaac and Xancy (Jennings) Ellis,
were natives of Tenn. His father died Dec. 21, 1877. He attend-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 731
ed the common schools here and olcaned a fair education. Jan. 1,
1858, he was united in marriage with Miss Mary Peterson. LoUi
D., born Nov. 9, 1858, Dora 1)., born June 16, 1866, and Fred I.,
born March 3, 1872, are their cliildren, all living. P. O. address,
Canton.
Neirfon FAIix, son of Isaac and Nancy (Jennings) Ellis, Tennes-
seeans by birth, was born in Canton township, this county, Dec. 21,
1843. He is now engaged in farming upon sec. 24. In 1862 he
enlisted in Co. F, 67th 111. Inf , under Capt. Trites, and served 3
months. During the same year he entered Co. C, 103d regt., under
Capt. Stockdalc. He was in 10 regular engagements, and at Kene-
saw Mountain, June 27, 1864, was wounded; Feb. 4, 1868, he was
married to Miss Bell McQuaid, and he married his second wife,
Kate Negley, May 16, 1871. She was born Aug. 2, 1840. P. O.,
Canton.
ir. W. Ellis, farmer and tile manufacturer, sec. 23; P. O., Can-
ton ; was born in Canton tp., Fulton Co., 111., Dec. 6, 1836. His
father, Isaac Ellis, came to Fulton Co. as early as 1827, and lived
here till his death, in Nov., 1877, a period of a half century. His
mother's maiden name was Miss Nancy Jennings. W. W. attended
the neighborhood schools, Fahnestock Academy, Lewistown, and the
high schools at Cuba and Evanston. He was married in 1861, at
Lewistown, to Phoebe A. Gardiner, who was born in Joshua town-
ship, this county, Oct. 10, 1841. Their only child, Stephen R., was
born April 14, 1862, In 1875 Mr. E. began work at his tile fac-
tory, and the first year turned out 100,000 tile, but did not dispose of
over $300 worth. The next year he made 450,000 pieces of tiling,
and the sales amounted to about $5,000. He has averaged 140,000
tile a year for 5 years. The exj)ense he has been to in fitting up
his factory is (piite large, amounting to $5,000. He has a superior
quality of clay and makes very excellent tiling.
Albert H. Furrey, fiiruier and teacher, sec. 28 ; P. O., Canton.
Mr. F. was born in Washington Co., Md., Feb. 16, 1844, and is the
son of David W., of the same county, and Lovina (Long) Furrey,
both of whom arc living. Albert was brought to the county in
1851, and educated in the common schools and the high school at
Canton. He has also taught school, and served his townshij) in var-
ious offices. Aug. 13, 18()5, at Canton, he was married to Saliiui L.
Rust, who was born March 27, 1847. Cora Alice, Charlie, Bertie
Dell, and an infant, are the children boni to them. He became a
member of the Lutheran Church May 12, 1861, and his wife in
Jan., 1865.
David ir. 7'V/'/-(7/, farmer, sec. 26 ; P. O., Canton, ^\'hil(,' resi-
dents of Washington Co., Md., John and Catherine (Miller) Furrey
had born to them on the I4th day of Oct., 1814, a son, he of whom
we now write. His father died in 1821, his mother in 1823. He
landed in this county April 22, 1851. He has taught school some;
quitting this profession he learned the cabinet-making trade in Bal-
732 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
timore; he again took up his profession and followed it for 12 years.
He has. served his people as School Director, Assessor, Collector,
and has been Town Clerk for nearly 20 years, and he is noted for
his neat, clean, legible records. He was married to Lovina Long
Nov. 15, 1838. Nine children have been born to them, only 4 of
whom, however, are living, — Albert H., born Feb. 16, 1844; John
H., Jan. 9, 1850; George M., March 29, 1857, and Emma, Nov.
28, 1859. ]Mr. and Mrs. F. arc Lutherans in religious faith.
John A. Furreii, son of Martin and Kosanna (My res) Furrey, na-
tives of Maryland, was born in Washington county, Md., June 28,
1827. Mr. F. came to this county from Cincinnati in 1849.
In 1852 he was married to Margaret Helen Havermale, who was
born Feb. 8, 1830. She has the first sewing-machine brought into
Joshua township, which was in 1855 or '56. Their son, Sylvester
W., was born Feb. 11, 1853. Both Mr. and Mrs. Furrey are mem-
bers of the Lutheran Church. Mr. F. manufactured the first drain
tile made in Fulton county in 1875, working under the firm name
of Furrey & Ellis. Previous to that Mr. Ellis, who is a shrewd, far-
seeing business man, urged the Grangers to organize a tile manu-
facturing company, but they refused, when he and Mr. Furrey united
and started one, which has proven a blessing to the farmers and
very remunerative to its operators. Mr. F. lives on sec. 25; P. O.,
Canton.
Joseph H. Gardiner, farmer, sec. 25 ; was born at Point Judith,
R. I., Feb. 22, 1811, and is the son of Beriah and Elizabeth (Ham-
mond) Gardiner, botli natives of Plymouth, Mass. Hi? father was
a sea-faring man, and Joseph often accompanied him on a coasting
vessel on many of iiis trips when a boy and young man to the East
Indies and other points. Mr. G. located at Penn Yan, N. Y., in
1831 and married Margaret RaAvalt, of that place, Oct. 13, 1831.
He came to Illinois in 1836 and located on sec. 25, Joshua town-
ship, where he has lived ever since. He started and carried on the
first blacksmith shop in this township, and also the first steam saw
and grist-mill, though on the same farm Levi G. Ellis had built
and run a mill by water on Put creek, which was carried away by
the great storm of 1835. From this mill he shipped fiour to New
Y^ork city for several years. He manufactured the first cultivators
made in the county, the " Gardiner Cultivators," which were ex-
tensively used and favorably known. He made the first lathe for
turning irou in the countv, and customers came to him from Iowa,
Rock Island and Springlidd. He manufactured threshing nu\chines,
reapers, etc., at ooe time. He has had a family of 9 children, 8 of
whom are living: Elizabeth, wife of Jackson Quick; Maria, wife
of Alexander Divilbiss, of Kansas; Nicholas, deceased; Mary J.,
wife of Singleton Ash, Phoebe, wife of W'm. Ellis ; Joseph B., lives
in Canton ; John, stock-broker in Canton ; Margaret, wife of Bige-
low Story, Canton township, and James, druggist, Canton. ^\ e
give the portraits of Mr. and ^Irs. Gardiner in this book.
,J^ F^ . j-iTA^^Jf^n^
OECEASEO
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JOSHUA TP
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 735
Daniel Hage, born in Franklin Co., Pa., Augnst 9, 1838. His
Avife, Ellizibeth Hage, was born May 23, 1837. His ])arents arc
Christian and Maria Hage. Mr. H. had but little opportunity to
gain an edueation, and tlirough life has met "with many misfortunes.
^^'hile living in Oliio lie had all his effects, save the clothing of one
betl, destroyed by lire. During the late war he was drafted. He
came to this county in 1869. He was married Dee. 29, 18(54, and
has 2 children, — Almedia and Mary. P. O., Fairview.
C/irisfnjj/icr Holmes is a native of Yorkshire, England, and is the
son of Eli and ^laria (Ixiiley) Holmes. He sailed from Liver])ool
Jan. 15, 1842, and landed at New Orleans March 9, and on the 26th
of the same month arrived in this county, and now r(>sides upon sec.
13, and is engaged in farming. He owns 840 acres of land, 200
acres of it being in Fulton county, all of which he has made by his
own exertions. He enjoyed no advantages while a boy to obtain an
education, and he never attended school until after his marriage,
and is what we term a self-educated man. He was married on
Easter Sunday, 1834, to Jane Shawcross. He has filled several of
the local offices. P. O., Canton.
Benjamin C. Johnson was born in Jefferson county, N. Y., Oct. 2,
1819, and was the son of D. S. Johnson. He received his educa-
tion in the common schools of New York and came to this county
in 1832. He held most of the township offices and was one of the
earliest candidates for Sheriff of Fulton county. His first wife was
Phoebe Hendricks, who died in 1859, and in 1861 he married Hen-
riette Haywood, who was born in Covington, Ky., in 1827. Their
only child, Charles Lincoln, was born April 7, 1863. Residence,
sec. 32 ; P. O., Fiatt.
William Johnson was born in ISOS in New York, the son of Ben-
jamin and Polly (Batman). His iiither of English descent and his
mother of German. In his early life he was a sailor on liakc
Ontario; was pilot, also Ca])tain several years. He emigrated to
Fulton Co., Ill,, in 1835, and at present is among the leading farm-
ers in Joshua township, living on sec. 30; is the owner of 300
acres of land in Fulton Co., 111. He has been twice married, two
children by his first wife and by his second wife 7 : onlv 5 children
are living. He and his wife are members of the J^aptist Church.
In politics Mr. Johnson is a Republican.
Rev. J. R. Jones, of the Christian Church, was born in East Ten-
nessee, Oct. 1, 1821. His father, Caunah Jones, a jii-omlnent man
in the early history of the county, died July 10, 1870; his mother,
Phebe (Darnal) Jones, died March 25, 1833. Mr. Jones was
brought to this county in 1834. He received his education mostly
in the c(Miimon schools of Fulton county, and began to preach in
1851. This profession he followed, together with that of farming,
until 1875. He resides on sec. 28; P. ()., Canton. He was united
in marriage with Emily Sells, April 1, 1841. Five boys and 4 girls
have been born to them, all of whom are living, and 3 of the for-
mer and 2 of the latter are married.
73G HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
George Kccfauver, farmer, sec. 36 ; P. O., Canton ; is a son of
John and Mairflalcna Keefiinvor, of Marvland, and was horn in
the c'onnty of Washinjiton of that State, Dec. 2, l.SKJ, His lather
died May IH, 1870 and his mother many years before. George
worked at the car[)enter's trade for 7 years while with his father.
He came to this connty in 1851 from Ohio. In 1838, in the Buck-
eye State, lie was married to Elizabeth jNIiller, wlio was born in
l8U(j. She is a member of the M. E. Church.
Henry Lock, farmer, sec. 27 ; P. O., Canton ; was born in Devon-
shire, Kng., March 29, 1824. His parents, William and Jane Lock,
were English folk, and both are deceased. Henry came to the State
in 1851, stopping in Peoria Co. until 1855, wiien he moved int(t
Eulton, where he has since resided most of the time. He was mar-
ried, July 28, 1861, to Polly Smith, wiio was born in Huron Co.,
()., in 1823. Both of them are members of the Duidvard Church.
Their 2 boys, AVilliam Henry and James A., were born in 1863, and
Jan. 4, 1866, respectively.
J. N. Martin, farmer, sec. 12 ; P. O., Canton ; was born in Frank-
lin, Penn., Aug. 2, 1846, and in May of the following year was
broujiht to this countv, where he was reared and received his educa-
tion. He now owns a farm of 200 acres. He has held local official
positions. On the 6th of Feb., 1868, he was united in marriage
with Laura Welsh, who has borne him 5 children; Minnie is
deceased .
James r. MrQua'xl, farmer, sec. 22; P. ()., Cantou. Mr. ]Mc-
Quaid was born in Cleartiehl Co., Pa., Dec. 11, 1840, and is the son
of James R. and Elizabeth (Vandevander) McC^uaid, both of whom
reside in Canton. His father was a gunmaker and the first in the
county, as spoken of elsewhere in this volume. James was brought
to the county Nov. li), 1844. He clerked in his father's store for
4 years, then went to California; since his return he has been farm-
ing. A])ril 4, 1869, he married Mintie Craig, niece of Judge Craig,
^ladison, Cora Bell, INIaggie, Fannie and Lula are their children.
J), y. Milhr was born in iSIorgan Co., A"a., A^iril 5, 1821. His
father, flacob ]Miller, was a native of Maryland, and his mother,
Elizabeth (Mowery) Miller, was born in Penn. In 1848 he came
to this county and settled in Canton. In 18-19 he settled on sec. 49
and has been rather successful, and at ])resent owns 282 acres of land,
although he has met with several reverses ; has suffered from 3 fires,
and lost money sent from the East; and these misfortunes occurred
while he was starting in life. The first business he ever did for
himself was to make tree nails, or railroad ])ins. He and his brother
to(»k a contract to furnish them and emj)loye(l 20 hands in their
manufacture. In 1850 he married Maria Jane Randolph, wiio bore
him 7 children, — 3 boys and 4 girls, — all of whom are living. One
son is editor of the Canton Advertiser. Politically, Mr. M. formerly
stood upoti the Democratic platform, but is at present identified with
the Greenback party. P. O., Canton.
HISTOnV OF FUT.TON COUNTY. 7.'>7
Thonia.^ C. Miner, farmer, sec. 14; P. O., Fairview. Mr. M. was
united in marriage with j\Ia<)o;ie Van Arsdale on the 17th of Oct., '68.
Charh)tte, the eklest of their 8 ehiUlren, was born Jan. 7, 1S70;
Harriet Ann horn in June, 1872, and Zilpha in July, 1875 — allof
whom are liviuir. Thomas C Miner is a son of A\'illiam V. and
Deborah INIiner. The former died 3 years ago, and mother is still
living. He was born in Somerset Co., N. J., Aug. 11, 1839. He is a
meml)er of the Reformed Church.
Willidia Ihnirii Jliii-plii/, farmer, sec. 27; P. ()., Canton; was
born Oct. 6, 18")], and is a native of this township. His father,
James ]\Iurj)hy, was a native of Ireland, and died 20 years ago , his
mother, Catherine (Heckard) Murphy, was a native of Virginia, and
she is still living. They were among the early settlers of th(> county.
AV. H. was united in marriage ¥oh. 17, '74, with Maria Goodwin, at
the residence of Christopher Holmes, Joshua t}). She was born
ISIarch 7, 1857. Frederic H., born in 1874, and Laura May, born in
Dec, 1878, are their children. In 1870 INIr. M. met with a serious
accident. A horse kicked him, causing the loss of one of his eyes.
David 3Ii/crs was born in Clark Co., O., April 4, 1819, and is the
son of George and Mary Myers. He came to the county in 1S55,
and has been successful in his vocation, — that of a farmer. He has
a farm of 210 acres here ; resides on sec. 12; and has 980 acres of
land in Texas. He has tilled several of the local offices. He was
united in matrimony with Margaret Ann Thomas, Oct. 1, 1821, and
his second marriage with Ann Maria Bonswell. He has 4 children
living, — 2 boys and 2 girls. He says this is the first season he
ever harvested before his corn came up. P. O., Canton.
Ddnicl P. Xe(/h\i/ is a native son of Fulton Co., having been born
here on the 3d of Aug., 1856. He is the son of fb)se])h I>. and
(\itharine (Wolfe) Xegley. He attended the common school of his
neighl)orhood and the schools at Canton. He is (MigagxMl in farming
on sec. 12, and does nuich to improve the stock of the county. He
keeps only the best stock upon his farm. As an example, he sold a
three-year old colt last year for -^350. Their children number 2, —
one son and one daughter. Howard was born March 12, 1872, and
Eva born Oct. 23, 1875. P. ()., Canton.
Joseph Of/den, farmer, sec. 18; P. O., Fairview; was born in the
year 179(j in Marietta, Ohio. His father, John Ogden, of New
York, served 7 years in the Revolutionary war. His mother,
Mary (Hinish) Ogd(Mi, was a native of the Keystone State. ]\Ir. O.
came to the county lirst in 1833, and in l'S34 returned to Indiana;
but in 1845 came to Illinois, settling in Fulton, and has lived here
since. He married Mary Watkins, a native ol" Green Co., Ky.,
and who was born Jan. 9, 1818. They have a iiunily of 8 children
born to them, 5 sons and ."> daughters. The first President Mr. O.
voted for was Gen. Jackson ; he is still a Democrat. He worked
for 15 years at wagon-making.
David N. Perrine, farmer, P. O., Fairview; was born in Canton
738 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
township, Fulton Co., 111., ^lay 4, 1849, and has resided in the
county all his life. His parents were Daniel and Ellen Perrine.
David received only such education as could l)e gained at the eom-
niyn schools of the county. He was married Feb. 8, 1871. Politic-
ally he is a Democrat.
J. Polhemus was born in Xew Jersey May 4, 1830, and is the son
of D. G. and Maria Polhemus. He was brought to this county
when a lad of 8 summers. He has been successful at his calling,
that of a farmer. In 1854 he was married and is the parent of 8
children, — 6 living, 4 boys and 2 girls. ]\Ir. P., when he enlisted
in Co. D, 103d 111. Inf., said he never would be taken prisoner.
He served his full time and was in some 20 battles. He was
wounded in the head at Mission Ridge. At Dallas, Ga., was taken
prisoner during the battle. The rebels got between him and 5 others,
and before they knew it, 20 of the enemy were on them and de-
manded their surrender. They gave up, and one rebel started
to escort Mr. P. to the rear as a prisoner, but he was not destined to
remain a captive long. He waited till out of sight of the other
parties, when he grabbed the gun from his captor and made him
beg for his life. He then started back and came up with two
rebels. He ordered them to surrender ; one of them jumped behind
a tree and lired at him, but missed him. He then made them sur-
render. He broke the rebel's gun over a tree and soon reached the
Union lines. The company elected him Lieutenant and he served
them faithfully. P. O., Fairview.
Andreir J. Quick, son of Joseph and Hannah (Vascoy) Quick,
of Xew York State, was born in Yates Co., X. Y., April 22, 1831.
His father died 38 years ago, his mother in Feb., 1876. Andrew
came to this county in 1853, and May 31, 1854, at the residence of
Joseph H. Gardiner, of this townshiji, he was married to Elizabeth
Gardiner, who was born Aug. 21, 1S32. They have a family of 9
children, whose names and dates of birth are as follows : Joseph S.,
born March 31, 1855; George F., 1857; Marv B., March 17,
1859; Harriet G., Dec. 14, 1863; John R., June 22, 1865; Charles,
March 7, 1869; Margaret M., April 22, 1872; James B., Dec. 18,
1875; Henry Rasco, Aug. 27, 1876. Joseph was married March
6, J 879, to Martha Grigsby, of Cuba. Mr. Q. was a carriage and
wagon-maker until 14 years ago, when he began farming. He lives
on sec. 31. P. ()., Fia'tt.
Lnris F. B(infhjlj)h farmer, sec. 13; P. O., Canton. Mr. R. is
evidently from a patriotic family, having been born the 4th of July.
He also has two sisters, each of whom was born u]>on that great
anniversary day. Lewis was born in 1835, and in September of the
same year was brought to this county. He is the son of John F.
and Nancy (Rawalt) Randolph. He attended the common schools
and gained a foir education, when he entered Lombard University,
Galesburg. He has served as School Trustee and School Director,
and his wife, Mrs. Lizzie Randolph, nee Andrews, is at present a
BK./'.
^^^
?<5?!^<^^ ^^Y^^Aey/y ^^^&;^?/rzW^
JOSHUA T*!^.
OF THE
'DIVERSITY Of ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 741
School Director. He was married in 1864. Mary, born in 1871,
and Jephtha, born June 7, 1877, are their children. Mrs. R. is a
member of the Baptist Church.
George M. Rust, teacher, is the son of Jason and Elizabeth
(Parker) Rust. The former, a native of Tennessee, was born Jan.
15, 1811, and died April 13, 1878. His mother is a native of this
State. His father was in Canton during the cholera epidemic and
his wife had the disease. He was the principal physician in the
town during the prevalence of this dread epidemic. He practiced
medicine for 35 years in Fulton Co., coming to the county in 1844.
George was born May 11, 1851^ He attended the common and
high schools of this county and the law school of Ann Arbor, Mich.
He began to teach immediately after leaving the Cuba high school,
and since his return from Ann Arbor has taught most of the time.
Residence, sec. 25; P. O., Canton.
Cecil Savill is a native of England and was born Aug. 22, 1832.
He is the son of George and Bettie Savill ; the former died July 24,
186(), and his mother is still living in Fulton Co. Mr. S. came to
the county in 1857 and has lived in the county since. He is a
shoemaker by occupation and served as an apprentice in England
for 5 years. He married Eliza Morton Sept. 15, 1856, and his secr
ond wife, Polly Silvernail, he married Nov. 4, 1861. By his first
wife he had one girl, Eliza, wife of Chas. Abbott. His second wife
bore him 8 children, — 5 boys and 3 girls. Mr. S. lives on sec. 25 ;
P. O., Canton.
Edwin Savill. Upon the 15th of Dec, 1820, in Yorkshire, Eng.,
there was born to George and Sarah (Whitehead) Savill a son, the
subject of this sketch. He had very limited educational advan-
tages, having attended school only 2 quarters, yet he has a good,
})racti(ud business education. He came to this country early in life,
and April 3, 1844, landed at C^)pj)oras creek, this county. He fol-
lowed blacksmithing till 1860. In 1857 he bought a saw-mill and
during 1860 added to it a grist-mill. He resides upon sec. 25, and
gets his mail at Canton. Aug. 11, 1849, he married Lucinda
Lemon, who has borne him 6 children, — 4 boys and 2 girls, — all
living, and residing with their ])arents.
Peter Hhafer, farmer, sec. 8 ; P. O., Fairview. Mr. S. is a native
of Germany, where he was born June 15, 1840. He came to
America in 1866 and June 15 of that year arrived in I^ilton (V).
He served in the German army 5 years and got 3J cts. per day, but
had the privilege to hire out and made money by thus working.
He settled on a farm on sec. 8, then all timber, but now 56 acres of
it improved. The second year he was in the county he made $225
at chopping with his axe. In Oct., 1866, he married Catharine
Sinvac, who was born in 1839. Catharine, Abba, Harriet, Mary
Ann, Sarah Deborah and Peter are their children.
John Shriner, deceased, wast a native of Maryland. He and his
wife, Martha (Switzer) Ruster, the last name being that of her for-
44
742 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
mor hasbaiul, came to this county in alxmt 1840. Mr. S. was an
Abolitionist an<l ilid liis part in assistinjj: the workinfr of the Under-
ground Kaih-oad. They were both raised in a shive State and early
imbibed Abolition sentiments. Mr. S. died in 1865, leaving a
widow and 9 children. John J. enlisted in the late war in 1861
and served '' years and a half". lie was accidentally shot in the hip
while eharjj-inir the eueinv's works at Ft. Donelson. He enli.-ted as
a private, but for gallantry was promoted to Captain.
George W. Smith, farmer, sec. 26 ; P. O., Canton. Unto Jacob
and Sarah (Lells) Smith, in 1843, while living in Indiana, a son was
born, George W. being the name given him. His mother died in
18o7 or '58, and his father in 1872. George W. was brought to this
county in infancy (1848) and here attended the common schools.
There are 5 brothers, who own in the aggregate about 1,000 acres of
land. Two of the b(\vs arc married and all the sisters. Jacob
Smith was one of Fulton county's successful farmers and esteemed
citizens.
Joseph Smith, farmer, sec. 23 ; P. O., Canton ; was born in AVash-
ington county, Ind., June 10, 1832, and is the son of Jacob and
Sarah (Lells) Smith, l)oth of Virginia. His father died about 1870.
He came to this county with his family in 1845 and lived 22 years
on sec. 26. Their marriage was blessed with 7 children, — 5 boys
and 2 girls. Joseph was married to Sarah Elizabeth Baughman, a
native of Fulton county, in 1869. They have a family of 4 chil-
dren,— 3 boys an-d one girl.
E. G. Standard is a native of Fulton county and has lived here
all of his life, almost. He has a flirm of 210 acres, which he has im-
proved mostly himself He lives on sec. 17, and his postotlice is
Fairview. He was i)orn on the 13th of May, 1841, and is the son
of Thomas and Rachel (Peterson) Standard. His father died Dec.
21, 1878, while his mother is still living and resides in this county.
He received his education at the Kandolj)!! school, Joshua township.
In 1860 Mr. S. was married, and again Feb. 14, 1864, this time
to Margaret Walker. James, born March 20,1865; Kobert E.,
Oct. 4, 1866; John I., July 18, 1868; Lucy Bell, March 9, 1870,
are their children.
frrin Staiut'ird, one of the oldest settlers of Joshua township, was
i)oni near Vienna, Johnson county. 111., May 12, 182(\ and 8 years
thereafter, Jan. 4, 182S, he was brought to this county. His j)ar-
ents were Thomas and Mercy (West) Standanl. Mr. S. came here
when school advantages were <piite limited, and conscipiently gained
onlv the rudiments of an educati(»n. He has served his district as
School Director for 10 or 12 vcars and his township as Collector for
two terms. He was united in marriage with Miss L. Bales, Nov. 7,
1839. They reared 2 adopted children, a boy and a girl, both of
whom are living and married. ^larv, the girl's name, was born
August 2(), 1840; Frank H. Standard, the son, was born Jan. 10,
1850, Mr. S, renK'm'>crs the time when he knew everv man in this
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 743
large county, but it is quite (liferent now. He is engaged in farm-
ing upon see. 17; P. O., Fairview
Lewis E. Tritc'S, farmer, sec. 13 ; P. O., Canton. During the dark
days of the Rebellion Lewis E. enlisted to defend his country's flag.
He entered Capt. Trites' (his brother) company at Canton in 18(i2,
and served as Sergeant. On his return home, Jan. 11, 18G4, he was
united in marriage with YA'v/ax A. Randolph. Halcyon, born May
25, 1868; Carl, March 22, 1871, and Minerva, born June 30, 1873,
are their children. Mr. T. is the son of G. G. and Louisa (Davis)
Trites, and was born in Delaware county. Pa., May 14, 1838, and
was brought to this county six years later. He brought the first
Norman horse into the county in 1873, at a cost of $3,500, and has
done much to improve and better the stock of the county.
Fdi'f Van Dorcn, farmer; P. O., Fairview; was born in Somer-
set county, Oct. 17, 1841, and is the son of J. K. and Maria Van
Doren. He arrived in this grand old county June 11, 1847, and
after receiving a good common-school education embarked in form-
ing, at which he has been successful. Oct. 15, 1868, he was married.
• Politically, Mr. Van D. is a Democrat.
Snmuc/ T «n Sijckrl. AVhile residents of Hunterdon Co., N. J.,
William V. and Charity B. Van Syckle born to them a son
whom they christened Samuel, the subject of this sketch. His
father died in 1868. He came to the county in 1856 and at
present resides upon sec. 1; P.O., Canton. In 1865 he was
united in marriage with Mary P^chleman, who has borne him 5
children. Alice May died at the age of 3 years. They have 3 boys
and one daughter living.
A.sler C. T/ioinjjfton was l)orn in Orange Co., N. Y., in 1799. He
was united in marriage with Miss Berintha Eggleston, of Yates
Co., N. Y''., in 1834. They came to this county in 1836 and settled
in Putman t|). on sec. 1. He died Sept. 16, 1863, leaving large
property. He was a miller by trade. Mrs. Thom])son manages
their dairy, which is (piite extensive. They were parents of 11
children : Mary, deceased, Charles M., Parmelia AV., Harriet and
Elizabeth, deceased, Phoebe C, Fannie, Sheldon, Rennet, Margaret
Jane, deceased, James Carr and Catharine Agnes.
Ji. S. Voor/iccs was born in Sonu'rset Co., X. J., and is the son of
Albert and Helen Voorhees. Till 1856 he followed farming. He
then embarked in the mercantile business, at which he continued till
1859. He then engaged in milling till 1865, when he returned to
his agricultural pursuit, which he now follows, residing upon sec. 2.
He has had the misfortune to be burned out twice. The first time
lost $3,000, the second about $600. He now represents the town-
ship in the Board of Supervisors, and has filled other j)ositions of
trust fi)r his people. In 1846 he was married to Matilda Brokaw.
Their children are R. S., born Feb. 18, 1850; Marv, Dec. 3, 1851 ;
Aaron, April 12, 1854; John, Jan. 22, 1858; Martha, May 2, 1860;
and Rynear, May 11, 1866. Mr. V. was born Sept., 1824,' and Mrs,
744 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Y. was born March 20, 1826. Mr. Y. is a member of the Reformed
Chuch, and has served both as Deacon and Elder. P. O., Fairview,
John Jacob Will Mas born in Bavaria, (icmiany, May 19, 1815,
and is the son of Yalcntine and Mary Ann Will. He came to
America and took up his abode in this delightful county in 1844.
At the early age of 14 he began to learn the tailor's trade, but aban-
doned it for the farm. His residence and farm are on sec. 1, Joshua
tp. He ^vas married July 19, 1840. His children, — 5 boys and
o girls, — are living. He is a Democrat in })<>litics, and cast his first
vote for Yan liuren. He is a member of the Reformed Church.
P. O., Fairview.
Capt. John S. Wi/rl-qf was born in Somerset Co., X. J., Dec. 12,
1808, and came to Fulton county in 1837. He is the son of Simon
and Mary (Cline) Wyckoff. For an education he had only the sub-
scription schools to attend. Mr. W. says that when he came here
they, in going to Chicago by wagon, could travel 40 miles and
not come to a dwelling-house. Now one passes more towns by far
than they did single houses then. He began farming for himself
at the early age of 16 ; in this pursuit he has been successful. He
was married in 1824 to Elizabeth Wyckoff. Their marriage
has been blessed with 5 children — only 8 of whom are living. During
the trying days of the Rebellion the Captain raised Co. D of the
103d 111. Inf., and was chosen its Captain. In less than one day
he had 80 men who promised to go with him. He participated in
several battles but from ill health he had to resign. He is a mem-
ber of the Old Settlers' Association ; has been Justice of the Peace
for 30 years, and was the first Town Clerk of Joshua. He has been
School Director and Assessor. He is a member of the Reformed
Church. P. O., Fairview.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following gentlemen have served the townshiji since its or-
ganization in the various official capacities named:
SUPERVISORS.
C. Jones 1850 C. S. Brokaw 18(53-65
E. L. Bovnton 1.S51-52 JacobCosler ]8r)tV-fi8
J. S. Young 1853 Job Walker. 1869-71
J. S. Wvckoff 1854 Joseph Kingrv 1872
B.C.Johnson 1855 Jacob Cosier 1873
.Joseph H. Gardiner 1856-57 B. C. Johnson 1874
Michael Ganliner 1858 JacobCosler 1875
Jacob Cosier 1859 ("has. S. Brokaw 187r>-78
Joseph H. Ganliner 1860 K. S. Voorhees 1819
Jacob C;osler 1861-62
TOWN CLERKS.
.TohnS. Wvckoff 1850 David W. Fiirrev 1857-71
Wni. M Standard 1851-52 J. J. Havermale 1872
Douglas Spear 18-53 David W. Furrev 1873-77
Wm. M. Standard 1854-56 JohnR. Miller-'. 1878-79
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
747
ASSESSORS.
Benjamin Butler 1850
John S. Young 1851-52
Wm. M. Standard 1853
H. D. Voorhees 1854-55
Wm. M. Standard 1856
John S. Young 1857
Jacob A. Clauson 1858-59
Benj. C. Johnson 18(50
David W. Furrey 1801-62
Wm. J. Cunningham 18(53
David W. Furrey 1864
Jacob Cosier 1865
David W. Furrey 1866-68
Jacob Cosier 1869
D. W. Furrey 1870-71
Harvev Montague 1872
D. W. Furrey.. 1873
Jacob Cosier 1873
0. C. Wysong 1874
J. S. Wyckoff. 1875
A. H. Furrey 1876
D. AV. Furrev 1877
Jacob Cosier." 1878
A. H. Furrey 1879
COLLECTORS.
J. P. Standanl 1850
John Scott •. 1851
J. P. Standard 1852
C. F. Baughman 18.53
Leonard Neff. 1854
Marion Wheeler 1855
Lvman Standard 1856
J."R. Jones 1857
('has. S. Brokaw 1858-62
I. M. Standard 18(53
D. G. Havermale 1864
D. W. Furrev 1865
I. M. Standard 1866
Isaac Scott 1867
R.S. xMaxev 1868
G. W. Kenneval 1869
Stephen Roswell 1870
J. B. Barchus 1871
W. C.Johnson 1872
J. C. Lawson 1873
F. H. Standard 1874-75
D L. Miller 1876
J. W. Drewner 1877
'j. B. Lock 1878
F. H. Standard 1878
W.H. Murphy 1879
KERTOX TOWNSHIP.
Presenting the history of this township in chronological order
compels us to notice first its archaeology, that is, the mounds and
relics of a remarkable people who have long since become extinct.
Indeed, it seems that three distinct races of people occupied this sec-
tion of country in former ages. One was probably a race of giants,
as we find skulls large enough to fit on the outside of the average
head of to-dav. One skull is of a reddish tinjre, like the color of
the bone, in which case the head was not well developed; another
skull is white : head well developed, and the facial contour correspond-
iufflv indicatintra hiofher intellio:ence. On the farm of Jacob Fisher
in the southeastern portion of the township are many relics of the
Mound-Builders, such as vessels and fragments of pottery with ar-
tistic designs, skulls, skeletons and fragments of skeletons in great
abundance. Thousands of these have been carried away by
visitors.
The earliest white settlers of Kerton township were Reuben and
Roswell Fenner, who located on sec. 19 in 1823; tlie next were
Joseph McKee, John Vides and Joseph Dobson, on sec. 17. about
1827. John Kerton, from the East, and Edward McKee, from Ire-
land, settled here about 1835. Very little is known of Mr. Ker-
ton, although the township has derived from him its present name.
Mr. McKee remained for a time ;uul was a res})ectaV)k' citizen.
Kerton township is probably the smallest in the county, and much
of the land is still held by old speculators, which fact militates
against tlie prosperity of the cmintry. Besides, a large ])ortion of
the land is hilly, being in the breaks of Spoon and the Illinois
rivers. Yet there are many nice farms in this township. Among
the representative men who give character and fix the destiny of
this little townshiji we may mention J. W. Swebaugh, Vandorus
Martin, Jacob Fishor, S(juire Rcardon, Jacob Scverns, Wm. Mark-
ley, Isaac Beatty, Wm. Oluney, T. P. Carney, Lemuel Wclker and
others.
The first Justice of the Peace was Benj. Hartland, who is said to
have settled here in 1838. The first school-house was built on sec.
30, in 184-"). The first post-oflice was established in June, 1871, in
Marl)letown.
West Point is on the Illinois river, located by Joel Onion, now
of Woodland township, in 1847, and is rapidly gaining favor as a
shipping ))oiiit. Joel A. Barnes and Wm. Dutch represent parties
in Beardstown as purchasers of grain.
HISTOEY OP FULTON COUNTY, 740
^larbletowu is a small villaiic, but the most central in the town-
ship. Its name was given it under these eireumstanees : During
the autumn of 1857 a saw-mill was erected by C. P. Richardson
and Wm. H. Cogshall ; of" consequence tenement houses were
erected; in 1868 Hiram Marble c^' Son bought the mill, and the
])eoplc naturally called the collection of houses about the mill
"■ Marbletown." In 1871 a post-office was established here (the
first in the township) and Jacob Severns is the present postmaster.
Mr. Severns built the first store-house in 1859, and for a year and
a half he carried on the mercantile business in a small way. In
1805 he re-commenced the business and since then has had a fair
run of custom. ^Ir. Marble was the second grocer and merchant.
Wm. Patchen also began the business last year, but he sold to A.
E. Ralston, who was in turn succeeded by S. W. Sloan. The mill
Avas removed several years ago, and biisiness in Marbletown has
consequently been diminished.
Mr. Marble lost a son, about of age, in the saw-mill. The main
driving belt or shaft caught his clothing and stripped it from his body,
crushing him and causing instant death.
There is no established Church in Kerton township. Religious
services are held at Hickory school-house, Cluney school-house,
Brown school-house and at Severns'. There is no regular pastor.
Latterly Dr. Note, of Woodland township, has frequently presided
at meetings as Pastor. Xathaniel McC'lellan, it is bclievcti was among
the first ministers in this township. Deacon Abraham F. Brown,
now of Schuyler county, was the first to preach in this township,
being called upon to preacii the funeral sermon of Mrs. John Ker-
ton.
The present Justices of the Peace are R. S. Warner and Wm, A.
Reardon ; Assessor, James ^lorningstar ; Collector, Jacob Severns;
Supervisor, Lewis Beatty ; Constable, W. L. Wrestler; Town Clerk,
Richard Warner; Road Commissioners, T. J. Wilson, James Morn-
ingstar and Lemuel Welker.
T'ERSOXAT, SKETCITES.
We now complete the history of this township by giving biograph-
ical sketches of old settlers and leading citizens:
Cluirlcx Ii(ni)ii(/ar(ln(r, farmer, son of Samuel Baumgardner,
was born March 15, 1850, in Pennsylvania. About 1864 he came to
F.ulton county, and in 187(5 he married Sarah, daughter of Daniel
Severns (an original j^ioneer and now a weathy man, owning some
1, .300 acres of good land, etc.) Mr. B. resides on sec. 19, where he
has 80 acres of land. P. ()., Mari)letown.
Jesse Beamen, deceased, a well-known early resident of this
county, whose eventful life we now follow, was a native of I\'nnsyl-
vania, where he was born in 179!). While a lad his father died and
receiving ill-treatment from those into whose hands he had fallen he
ran awav to New York State. He enlisted in the war of 1812 and
750 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
when discharf:;ed returned to New York. He soon came to the wilds
of" Indiana, where he foUowcd farmin*^ and ran a saw-mill. He was
married while there to Miss Nan(ry Pool, dau<rhter of Jos('j)h Pool
and cousin of Gen. Joe Hooker. About 1840 he came to Illinois,
landing in Schuyler county, he returned to Indiana and then came to
Menard county, Hh, and in 1850 to Fulton county, where he re-
mained till his death which occurred in 1858, and he was laid at
rest in Isabel township. Mrs. B. is still living in this township.
She was born in North Carolina, May 10, 1805. Eight children
blessed this union, of whom John W., from whom this sketch is
obtained, is the younger. He was born July 15, 1843, in Schuyler
Co. He enlisted in C\). K. 10.'3d 111. Inf. and served throuirh the
late war. An older brother, William, was also a soldier and died
from wounds.
Isaac Beaty, farmer, sec. 7 ; P. O,, Marbletown. Levi Beaty,
the father of Isaac, was a native of A^irginia and a farmer by occu-
pation. He married Miss Sarah Meredith and there was born to
them a family of 14 children, 11 of whom grew to mature years.
Isaac was born in Newcastle township, Coshocton Co., O., in 1815,
where he passed his childhood, youth and grew to manhood. At
the age of 20 he was married to Esther Conner, daughter of Daniel
Conner, of Virginia. They were blessed with 9 children, 8 of
whom are living, — Andrew J., Peter, Robert L., Hiram, Daniel,
Sarah J., Lydia and Isaac L., Avho resides on the old homestead and
is one of the enter})rising young men of the township. In 1851
Mr. B. came to Fulton Co. and settled in Kcrton tj). on the jirop-
erty he now owns, and has since kept pace with the advance of the
county.
James H. Blair, blacksmith, was born in Lawrence Co., Ind.,
in 1883; in 1853 he emigrated to this township, where he com-
menced farming, but soon turned his hand to blacksmithing, at
which he has succeeded well. Here he has had a family of 3 chil-
dren, none of whom now survive. Indejiendent. P. O., Marble-
town.
John BrojJii/, farmer, deceased, was a native of Ireland, settled
in this township in an early day, and died in 1870, after acumulat-
ing considerable pro])erty by years of toil. He owned 320 acres of
laud. He married Mary Waldcr, and their children were James,
W'illiain, John, Catherine, Thomas, Michael and Francis. ISIrs.
Brophy was a native of New York, but her parents were from Ire-
land.
Charles D. Broum, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Isabel
tp., this county, in 1848, married Ijottie Scverns, a daughter of the
late Daniel Scverns, in 18()(i, and has had 0 children, — Daniel, Ida,
Charles, Lottie, AVilliam and John. Mr. B. has 240 acres of good
land, has been Collector of Kerton tp.. School Director, etc., but
has never sought office. In politics he is a Democrat. Residence
on sec. 10. P. O., Marbletown.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 7")1
Joseph Broicn, farmer, now tloccascd, was born in IMeasant t]).,
this county, May 1, 1843. His fatlicrwas Charles Jirown, a native
of Butler Co., O., born in Cincinnati in 1810, who married Jane E.
Van Garden, of New Jersey, and had 14 children, 10 of whom sur-
vive. In 1841 Charles Brown moved with his family to Isabel t]).
near where Havana now is. He was the first to introduce Hue live
stock, the first to brino; in the Poland China hog. His beginnings
were slow, but he finally got over 500 acres of land. He died Dec.
21, 1878. The old lady still survives, living in Isabel tp. Joseph
grew to manhood, obtaining a good common-school education, and
being a hard worker he has become well off. Sept. 3, 18G6, he mar-
ried Mary, daughter of the late Daniel Severns, and since has had
4 children. One is deaf and dumb. He was sent to the institute
at Jacksonville, and on starting home he got upon the wrong train,
got bewildered, and traveled about one way and another till he
reached Denver, Col. Meanwhile the press and telegraph were
busy advertising for the lost boy, and at this point succeeded in
finding him, when he was brought home to his rejoicing parents.
The liome is on sec. 10, and the P. (). is Marblctown.
W. J. Cdi'lock, farmer, was born near Springfield, 111., otie of the
first white children born in this State. His father, Abraham Car-
lock, was a native of Virginia and a farmer; married his first wife,
Abigail Osborne, in that State, :uid had 8 children. She dic^l, and
Mr. C. moved to Tenn., and married Mary Ann Lee, by whom he
had 10 children. W. J., the youngest was one of the earliest ])io-
neers of Fulton county, went to school and diligently worked his
way along. In 1844 he married Plannah, daughter of Edward
Pass, an Englishman, who came to America in 184'i and eventually
settled in Eulton Co., where he died. His wife was a Miss ^Vlice
Andrew, who died in England. Mr. Carlock has been Constable
and Road Commissioner. He owns a 120-acre farm, in Kerton tp,,
on sec. 22. P. ()., Marblctown. Democrat.
Will. Cole, deceased, was born in Chicago, 111., a son to Dr.
Cameron Cole. The Doctor settled on the present site of Chicago
when there were but two buildings there (log cabins). He came
from S^'otland, taking to himself a wife on shi})-l)oard. They had
o children, of whom Wm. is the oldest. When but two years of age
William was stolen by the Indians; every white inhabitant rushing
to the rescue, he was found and brought back. He subsequentlv
obtained a liberal education, came to Fulton Co., and followed
farming during life. Nov. 2, 1832, he married Marv Scclinrn of
Kentucky, by whom he had 7 children : Lucy, who married John
H. Aswell ; Thomas, who married Alice C-ullen ; James B., who
married Sarah E. Clunev ; Henrv C, Clara, Elinira and Nancy J.
At the first call Mr. Cole enlisted in the 2(1 111. Cav., obtained
through meritorious conduct the rank of Sergeant, and was honor-
ably discharged at the close of the Rebellion. He died at his home
in this tp. Mrs. C. died in 1878. Thomas and James B. are the
752 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
only ohiklren now residing in this tp. Tlie latter was horn in this
Co. in 185G, and in ^lay, 1878, he was married. Ropnl)liean.
Edmund Curh^s. This gentleman resides upon see. 30, and gets
his mail at Marhlctown. He was horn in Brown Co., ()., in 1831 ;
at the age of 15, aecompanied his parents, Joseph and IjUcv Curless,
to Illinois and located in Woodland tp., this eounty. When Presi-
dent Lincoln called for troops to sn])press the HehcUion, P^dmnnd
enlisted in Co. I, 85th 111. Inf., and participated in many hattles.
He went out as private and was promoted to Orderly Sergeant and
afterwards to First Lieutenant. At the close of the war he was dis-
charged and returned to Fulton Co. He had previously married
Marv Xewton, dauirhter of Dr. Xewton, deceased. There are 7
children living of this marriage : Olive and Florence, twins. Flora,
Oscar, Edmund, Elizabeth and Lilly.
Jonathan Curless, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Brown Co.,
O., in 183(). His father, John Curless, was also born in Ohio, fol-
lowed farming, and married Pho'be Rumney, and they became the
parents of 7 children. They migrated to this county when Jona-
than, next to the youngest, was a very small boy ; but the boy -re-
turned to Ohio, where he grew to manhood and married Sarah J.,
daughter of James Lemons. His children are : Nora A., Emery B.,
Linda A., Llysses G., Ida B. and Nancy J., — (i in number. On
the breaking out of the great war ]\lr. C. enlisted in Co. H, 189th
Reg. Ohio Inf , for the term of war. At its close he was honorably
discharged at Nashville, Tenn., and returned to Ohio. In 18G9 he
went to Missouri, and in ]87"2 settled in Kerton tp. P.O., Marble-
town. Polities, Repul)lican.
George W. Dohson, farmer and machinist. Mr. D. was born in
Woodland tp., Fulton Co., in 1844; he grew up in that tp., and at
the age of 18 he enlisted in Co. K, IHth 111. Inf. He was engaged
in manv battles, Duriniii: the sies::e of Knoxville, while his ami two
other companies were escorting the })aymasterto Burnside's Division,
were taken prisoners, and t)fficers and men were sent to Libby Prison.
Jan. 1, 18(>3, Mr. I), came in sight of this wretched pen. It formerly
l)ad been a tobacco factory and was (50x100 feet in size, 3 stories
high. He was stripped of many articles of wearing apj)arel ami
contined to the 3d story, where he had a good opportunity to
note the sorrv condition of the Union soldiers, whose onlv fault was
a devotictn to the old Hai>-. Verv few were decentlv clothed. ^Ir.
I), spent many wearv months of privation and suffering scarcely
credible to those who have never known the j)angs of hunger or
thirst. He finally was released and discharged from the U. S. .service
in August, 1805. In 1874 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary
Brown, daughter of Jacob Brown. They have a family of "2 children ;
Luland and an infant.
Michael Doirliiifj, farmer and stock-raiser,sec. 5 ; P. O., ]Marble-
town. Mr. I), is a native of Ireland, where he was born about the
year 184G. His father, M. Dowling, was a farmer in Ii'eland and
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 753
there married Bridget Corcoran. Of this marriage there were born
7 children, ^lichael the youngest. At the age of 13 he crossed the
ocean for the New AVorhl. After the usual voyage he landed in
New York, from where he went to Louisville, Ky,, then came to
Mason Co., 111., and finally settled in Isabel tj)., Fulton Co., where
he worked several years by the month. In 1874 he was married to
Miss ]Mary A., daughter of Wm. Carney, a native of Ireland, who
settled in Fulton Co. in an early day. They have 2 children.
John V. Ehlen, farmer, was born in Hardin Co., Ky., Sept. 30,
1817. His father, James Elden, was also a native of Kentcky, was
a farmer and a meclianic, married Sarah Yan Meter, by whom he
had 13 children. He became a wealthy planter, and died in 1827.
John Y. married Hester Farmer in Kentucky, and has had 7 chil-
dren,— Mary J., Sarah, James, Thomas, Jonas, John and AVilliam.
From 1857 to 1864 Mr. E. lived in Missouri, since which time he
has resided on sec. 14, this tp., owning 80 acres of valuable land.
P. O., Marbletown.
Lawrence Fall, farmer, was born in county Clare, Ireland, about
1839. His father, Lawrence Fall was also a farmer, married Mar-
garet McXamara, and had 10 children. Lawrence, the youngest,
grew to manhood, receiving a good common-school education, and
in May, 1870, he came to America. He soon settled in this tp., on
sec. 11, where he owns 100 acres of land. Politics Democratic, and
P. O., Marl)letown.
Ji-fco^ 7'7.s/(c';', farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 30; P. O., BlufFCitv ;
among the leading farmers of this township Mr. F. finds a place in
the biographical department of this work. He is a native of Ger-
many, where he was born in 1823. His father, Jacob Fisher, was a
farmer by occupation and married at Baden Miss Elizal)eth Tavlor.
Our subject was their youngest child. At the age of 11 he brought
him to the U. S. At Buffalo his father died. Young Jacob went to
Coshocton Co., Ohio., where he was a farm hand. In 1845 he came
to Schuyler Co., 111., where he remained until the Mexican war l)n)ke
out, when he enlisted in Col. Dunlajj's regiment. He returned to
Schuyler Co., where he remained 6 years and married Miss Louisa
Miller, and about 1859 moved to Kerton t]>., where he ])urchased
160 acres of land. He has increased his jiossessions thi'ough un-
common perseverance to one section oi" land. The marriage above
referred to has been blessed with 9 children, 7 of whom are living:
Mary, Yalentine, Mahala, George, I^aura, Anna and Ellen. Melissa
and John deceased. Mrs. F. died April 5, 1876.
ThoiiKis P. Kearney, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 33 ; P. O.,
Marbletown, is a son of I*atrick Kearney of Isabel tp. Patrick
Kearney crossed the ocean in an early day. He had previously
married in Ireland Bridget Falon, who has become the mother of 7
children, none of whom survive, however, save the subject of this
sketch. Thomas grew up in Fulton Co., where he received his pre-
liminary education^ afterwards taking a business course at Notre
754 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Dame, Ind. After receiving a liberal education he returned to Ful-
ton Co., where he has since successfully followed farming. In 1867
he was married to Miss Mary, daughter of Peter Lally, of Havana,
by whom he had G children, 4 of whom are living: Anna, Bridget,
Mary and Kate.
J. W. Lincbaugh, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 18, P. O., Marble-
town ; is one of the most successful agriculturists in this county.
He is a native of Rockingham Co., Va., where he was born in
1820, and is the son of Junius and Susan (Wilds) Lincbaugh.
They moved to Coshocton Co., O., in an early day, where they pass-
ed the remainder of their days. They had a family of 10 children.
In 1843, J. W. secured employment with Johnson Bros.', promi-
nent farmers, and whose superintendent he soon became. The first
money he earned was at work on a dock. When a boy he bought
calves and raised them, which he did at a profit. He .set foot in
Chicago as early as 184(3 on one of his trips West. In 1854 he set-
tled in Kerton, where he married during the year, Miss Ilebeeca
Butler, who owned 120 acres of land. They soon began to prosper,
and now own 1,100 acres of land. i
William MarMcij, farmer, stock-raiser and apiarian, was born in
Cosliocton Co., O., in 1830. At the age of 10 years he accompan-
ied his parents, David and Rebecca Markley, to Illinois. They at
first settled in Schuyler Co., but soon moved to Fulton, where Wm.
was raised and received a liberal education, and was quietly pursu-
ing his farm duties when the war broke out, when he enlisted in Co.
I, 85th 111. Inf. He was discharged in 18()"2 and returned to his
old home, where in 1838 he had married I^avina Masters. They
have a family of 5 children. Mr. M. has a fine farm of 320 acres.
He has held manv local offices.
Vandoras Martin, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 7 ; P. O., Marble-
town ; is a native of Zanesville, ()., where he was born in 1820.
His father, Thomas Martin, was born in Maryland, and was united
in marriage there with Miss Anna Blaine, of Penn. They had a
family of 11 children, of whom Vimdoras was the eldest. He was
only 3 years of age when his ])arents came to Ohio. In 1837 they
made the usual overland trij) to Illinois; crossed the Illinois at
Beardstown and fbllowcHl the wagon tracks and landed in Wood-
land tp., this county. The usual cabin was erected in a short time,
and the jiioneer family began Western life in earnest. The long
trii)s to mills, raising of cabins, corn-huskings, bee-huntings, being
the diversion from the monotony of clearing and grubbing. In
1851 Mr. M. was married to Miss Diana Beamen, by whom he has
4 children : Hortense, Manning, Sylvester and Melinda. In 1853
Mr. M. purchased his first projwrty, consisting of 180 acres. After
a life of unusual activity and success, he rests in affluence, own-
ing the best residences in the township and 428 acres of land.
David McNeill, deceased. Long before Illinois gave an indication
of its present prosperity, when the smoke from Indian wigwams
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. ^■J0
were still seen in the Illinois Valley, David McNeill made his way
to Illinois. He arrived in Fnlton connty in 1827, and became
widely known. He was born in New Hampshire, and went to New
York with his parents when 11 years old, and in 1820 to Indiana,
and 7 years later to this county, where he passed the remainder of
his life. He was twice married. Dec. 9, 1819, he married Miss
Mary Cole, who bore him 9 children. She was a poetess, and died
Dec' 10, 1840. Mr. McNeill married Mrs. Maria (Smith) Huflt'
March .'il, 1841. Five of his sons served in the late war; one ^jave
np his life for the country and another was an inmate of Lil)by
prison, but made his escape. Our subject and his brother, Parker,
were the first settlers in South Fulton. Shortly after his arrival a
congregation was formed, and the first Methodist ministrations were
held at his house. He was an earnest Christian man, liberal in his
views and with his purse. He was a large contrilnitor to the new
church in Astoria, and on the day of dedication the trustees hon-
ored the old pioneer and themselves by naming it the McNeill Cen-
tenary Chapel. He passed away Sept. 30, 1867, and lies at rest in
Astoria township,
Joseph E. Moore, farmer, sec. 14 ; P. O., Marbletown ; was born
in 184>3 in Missouri. His father was a native of Pennsylvania, who
married Lydia Mosslander, and had 8 children. They then moved
to Fulton county, where Joseph, the second of the childn^n, passed
his boyhood. During the war he enlisted in Co. I, 8.")th 111. Inf , as
a private, and was engaged in the battles of Chickamauga, Jones-
boro, Kenesaw Mountain, Rome, Buzzard Roost, etc. Honorably
discharged at Springfield, 111., he returned to this townshiji, where
he married Clarissa Jewel, by whom he has had o children, — Clarissa
E., Dora M. and Myrtle V!
William A. Raridin, Justice of the Peace and wagon-maker, set-
tled in this township in the autumn of 1848. He was born in Ma-
son county, Ky., in 1827; his father, Jesse Raridin, was a native
of Pennsylvania, where he married Miss Ruth Applegate. rhey
had a family of 1.*} children. Jesse R. moved to Indiana and con-
tinued to follow farming and passed the remainder of his life in that
State. Mrs. R. died many years before her husband did. William
grew U]) in Indiana and learned the trade of wagon-making and
since his coming here has followed farming and wagon-making.
During the autumn of 1849 he was united in married with a daughter
of Thomas Seaborn, Miss Amanda, one of the ])ioneers of Fulton
county. They have 6 children livino; out of a family of 9 born to
them. Their names are Mary A., Catharine, IMatt, Wm., Melissa
and Emma.
Jacob Severns ranks among the first settlers of the county. He is
a native of Coshocton, O., where he was born in March, in 1832.
His father was Daniel Sevcrns, of Pennsylvania, who came AVest
settling in Ohio and from there to Fulton Co. in 1842, settling in
Kerton tp. In subsequent years he lived in Astoria township, but
756 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
passed the remainder of his life in AVoodhmd. Mrs. Severns died
in February, 1871. Jacob was married in 1854 to Miss Marv M.
^\'illiams. They liad a family of (5 eliildren : Mrs. S. died May
11, 18()S. Mr, 8. was again married April '22, 1869, this time to
Miss Mahala Wallace. Tliey have one child. Mr. S. is Town
Clerk, which ottice he held for 3 years previously.
Jo/iii ir. S/ii('((ls, farm(>r and jjroeer, was the son of Asu L.
Shields, whose father was born in East Tennessee in 1805, moved to
Indiana and died there, when ,Vsa was but 12 years old. The
orphan moved to Woodland townshij) in 1829, grew to manhood,
and after roughing it for many years he accumulated considerable
])roperty, married Mary, daughter of John and Mary ]Miner, and
had 8 children, all yet living. During the great war he enlisted in
Co. I, 3d Cav, In about a year he was wounded and discharged, and
he returned home. In 1860 he married Rachel, daughter of Thos.
and Fanny Seehom, and has had 4 more children, — Geo. A. Marion,
Mary I, and Martha A, For a year Mr. S, has been a grocer at
Heenan, and is an enterprising and generous man,
8. W. Sloan, merchant, Marbletuwn, is a native of Isabel town-
shij), Fulton county. He was born Dec, 13, 1853, and is the eldest
son of Samuel Sloan, an early settler of Fulton county. He is a
native of Fayette county, O., and his parents came West when he
was a lad and first settled in Mason county iu 1832, and 12 years
later moved to Fulton county, S, W, received a liberal education
and in 1874 was united in marriage with ^Sliss Effie J,Saffer, They
have one child, whom they liave cliristened Frank. February 17,
1878, Mr, S, eml)arked in the mercantile business at Duncan's Mills
and June 23, of this year (1879) moved to Marbletown,
Ahrnham Tippj/, agriculturist, was born in 1827, in Williamson
Co,, 111, His grandfather was Abraham Tippy, a native of Xew
York, a farmer, and a soldier in the Revolutionary war until its
close. He married Nancy Spellers and had 13 children, the 3d of
whom was James, the father of the subject of this sketch, James
was born in 1802, in Tenuessee, and when a child his parents emi-
grated with him to Williamson Co., 111., where he grew to manhood,
receiving a comnu>n-school education, and married Elizabeth,
daughter of Sterling Hill of N, C, by whom he had 7 children,
Abraham, the oldest, passed his youth there as a farmer, and after
serving as a soldier during the Mexican war, he returned home and
married Sarah, daughter of Nathaniel Sands of Ohio, by whom he
has had 5 children, — James N., Winfield S,, Harvey L,, Abraham
A. and E. E. Mr, Tippy came to Kerton tp, in 1853, purchased
98 acres of land, and is now the owner of 148 acres of well im-
proved land. He has been Su])ervisor 11 years. School Director,
Justice of the Peace, etc. In politics he is a Democrat.
John Trai/ar, farmer and blacksmith, was born in 1814 in Penn-
sylvania ; being left an or})han when young, he was reared by a
family named McCune, who brought him to Ohio, near Columbus.
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 757
In 1841 he emigrated to Illinois and settled in Marshall Co. ; was a
soldier in the Mexican war; married Johanna Macklin, in Cass Co.,
and has had 4 children, — Lydia, Xancy A., James E. and Joshua
E. Mrs. Trayar died May 7, 1854, and the following October Mr.
T. married Sarah, daughter of John W. Hardy, by whom he has
had 3 children, — Jane Irving, Simeon R. O. and James F. In the
last war Mr. T. enlisted in Co. I, 85th 111. Inf., and was made Cor-
poral; fought und( r Sherman in his march to the sea, honorably
discharged at Washington, D. C, and returned home. He located
in this tp. in ]857. In politics he is a Republican.
James D. Tyrcr, physician and surgeon, MarbletoMii ; was born
in Quincy, 111., in 1832. When quite small his parents moved to
Wisconsin, where in the mining regions they remained some 18
years, when they moved back to Quincy. His father was among
the original settlers of Quincy and settled there among the Indi-
ans. He bought a soldier's claim lying adjacent to what is now the
city of Quincy. Although not a graduate of a medical institute he
acquired consideral)le skill as a physician and became a prominent
citizen of Quincy. He set up and had in running order the first
mill stones ever brought to Adams county. He died at Quincy in
the 87th vear of his ao-e. Mrs. T. is livino; at the ao;e of 1)1. The
Doctor is the youngest of 6 sons. He received a liberal education
at Quincy and graduated from the Chicago Medical College in
1859. He first began practice at Quincy, where in 1855 he had
married Miss Catharine INI. Terry. He went from thc-re to Mt.
Sterling, thence to Jacksonville, then to Astoria and finally to
Marbletown. He has a family of 5 children.
George Warner, farmer, sec. 8 ; P. O., Marbletown ; was born in
Harrison county, O., in 1850. His father, Samuel Warner, was a
native of the Buckeye State and farmer by occupation. He moved
to Indiana and married Miss Sarah Carter. They raised a family
of 12 children, George being the youngest surviving son. Samuel
Warner came to Fulton county in 1858 and purchased farm prop-
erty in Kerton. He died at Lewistown, and Mrs. W. passed away
many years before her husband did, and but 6 cliildren survive. In
1871 George was married to Miss Lucinda Le Masters. Lillie V.,
David and Ira V. are their children.
Lemuel Wdkcr, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in 1834, in
Knox county, O. His father, David Welker, was also a native of
Ohio and a farmer, and moved to this county in 1848. In Ohio he
married Margaret Darling, by whom he has had 9 children ; of these
7 are living. Lemuel, the second of them, was brought up in Ful-
ton county. At the commencement of the late war he enlisted in
Co. I, 85th Inf., and was engaged in the battles of Stone River,
Resaca, Buzzard Roost, Kenesaw Mountain, Chickamauga, Jones-
boro and other places. Serving until the close of the war, he was
honorably discharged at Springfield and returned home. He has a
good farm of ItJO acres, on sec, 9. In 18G8 he married Caroline,
758 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
daughter of Wm. Potter, of Pennsylvania. He has no children
liviiii::. ^Ii*- ^^'- i'^ Independent in politics, voting for the man and
not the party. P. ()., Marl)letown.
Edwin Weston, farmer and stoek-raiser, was born in Staffordshire,
Eng., in 18.32. His father, Robert W^eston, was a game-keeper,
who married Jane Adams, and tiiey were the parents of 9 children,
the youngest of whom is Edwin. They emigrated to America in
1846 and settled 100 miles below Niagara Falls. In a few months
they came to Isabt^l township, this county, Mrs. W. dying in
Chicago en route. Edwin soon learned to take care of himself, and
in June, 1853, he married Margaret, a daughter of Geo. Cooper, of
Ohio. Mr. W. has now a home of his own on sec. 6, and has been
Assessor and Road Commissioner. Democrat. P. O., Otto.
Thomas \V. Wilson, farmer, sec. 6 ; is a native of Harrison county,
Ind., and was born in 1835. His father, Joseph AVilson, was born
in East Tennessee, where he followed farming and married Margaret
Armstrong. She became the mother of 6 children, and was taken
from him bv death. He then married Miss Marv M. Rogers, who
bore him 3 children. Thomas accompanied his parents to Fulton
county in 1855. He married in Indiana Miss Martha A. Deweese,
by whom he has 16 children; 3 having passed away. We give the
names of his children: Sarah P., Joseph A\ ., John W,, Mary S.,
Margaret E., Chas. S., Amos L., De Lefayette, Nandora, Laura B.,
Emmet C. Lewis E., Martha A., Hays, Thomas and Gertrude.
II. L. Wrestler, farmer and stoek-raiser, sec. 7; P. O., Marble-
town ; is a native Br(»wn county, O., where he was born Feb, 13,
1825, his father, Henry Wrestler, was born in Pennsylvania, where
he followed farming and there married Miss Lydia Rass, by whom
he had a familv of 5 children. W. L. being: next to the voungest.
He grew to manhood in Ohio and there married Sarah J., daughter
of Samuel and Margaret Warner. Ten children have been born to
them, 7 of whom are living: Lydia, Minerva V., Marcus, Sarah,
Lafayette, George and Ida M. During the autumn of 1852 Mr. W.
made his way to Illinois and hicuted in Kerton townshi]>. on the
pro})erty now owned by J. W. Linebaugh and the following year
purchased 80 acres of his present farm which consists of 240 acres.
Lewis P. Wrir/hf, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Harrison
Co., Ind., in 1844. His father, Wm. Wright, was also born in In-
diana, followed farming, and marrietl Melinda Wiseman, a native of
Virginia. Thev had 'J children. Lewis, the 7th, came to this tp. in
1856; in 1861 he enlisted in Co. G, 85th 111. Inf, for the term of
war, and participated in the battles of Perry ville, Cliickamauga, Mis-
sion Ridge, Buzzard Roost, Wake Creek Gap, Jonesboro, etc. At
one time his regiment was under tire for 108 successive days. After
the war he returned home Aug. 30, 1866, he married Harriet,
daughter of St. Clair Murray, who was among the first settlers of
this tp. Their children are Charley, John W., Sarah, Elmer and
Edmund. He has SO acres of land, on sec. 3. Republican. P.O.,
Marbletown.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
759
We give below a list of the township officers who served in Kerton
since 1859, snpervisors from 1850.
i^LTEK VISORS.
George Anderson 1850
Patrick H. McKee 1851
Win. Fnson 1852
Daniel Severns 1854-
Wm. Fuson 185()
A. J. Kalston 1857-
60
AbnerBassott 18til
A. J. Ralston 1862-66
Abram Tippv 1867-76
Abncr Bassett 1877
Abrani Tippy 1878
Isaac L. Beattv 1869
TOWN CLERKS.
Hugh McIIiigh 1859-72
James McCausland 1873
A. J. Ralston 187-i
James Orr 1875-78
Richard Warren 1879
ASSESSORS.
W. S.Fuson 1859-60
Cornelius Phalen 1861-65
Cornelius Phalen 1866-75
Edwin Weston 1875-75
James Morningstar 1879
COLLECTORS.
Abram Tippv 1859-61
W. L. Wrestler 1862
Joseph Richardson 186:5-64
G. O. Richardson l!^65-66
James Morningstar 1867
S.B. Tippv 1868
W. L. Wrestler 1869
G.O.Richardson 1870
Jacob Severns 1871
S. B.Tippy 1872
Jacol) Severns 1873-74
Chas. Brown 1875
Jacob Severns 1876-77
Joseph Butler 1878-79
45
LEE TOWNSHIP.
In rcfjard to agricultural resources, this townshij) is unsurpassed
by any in the county. It is acceded by all to be one of the finest
bodies of land in tiiis part of the State, and is under a high and al-
most perfect state of cultivation.
Sept. 26, 1832, Stephen Rigdon arrived in this county. He lo-
cated at Canton, Mhere he lived until May 1, 1834, Avhen he moved
into Lee township, being- the first white man to erect a cabin and
make his home in this township. The family lived here for a ]>cr-
iod of five months before they saw another white person. Mr. Rig-
don located upon section 36. Harrison Rigdon was 22 years of
age at the time, and savs he th<)uo;ht nothing of going 25 or 30
miles on foot through the wild country. Upon one occasion he,
with 10 others, engaged in building a mill on sec. 4, Cass township,
upon Put creek, for Andrew Laswell. A Mrs. Cline was employed
to do the cooking. Some way or another Mr. Ijaswell offended her.
She gathered n\) her cooking utensils and (piitted them. Thus the
11 men were left to do their own cooking, with only one tin cup
and a wooden trough as their kitchen furniture. The trough they
used to mix the dough in, which they cooked by setting a board in
the ground not far from a log fire and jiressed the dough upon this,
fronting the blazing log. After a crust had Ibrmed over the dough
the bacon w^as laid (i})on it to cook, letting the grease run down
over the bread.
The first child born in the township was Jacob Peirsol. The
second was Hiram Rigdon. dames ( )sborn and Ruth Smith were
the first couple married. The ceremony was performed by James
Haney, and occurred in Marcli, IS.')."). Morgan Real was the first
grown person to die. Tiie first school-house was erected in 1839
and the first teacher was Eli/.abetii Moon. The first sermon was
j)reached at the residence of Stephen Rigdon by Elder John Rig-
don, his brother, who was a Christian preacher. The first Church
organized was the Christian Church in 1835. The first frame barn
erected in the townshiji was built for Ezra D. Smith, who is now
Postmaster at Prairie City. It stood until June 17, 1879, when it
was burned down. The first saw and grist-mill was erected by
Philip Aylesworth in 1837.
Lee townsliip was organized into an election precinct in 1841.
At the time there were 13 voters in the township. Previous to
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 7()1
this, Dccrfickl, Ellisvillo, Union and Lee composed one election
precinct.
In 18(3B the Viro;il M. E. Chnrch was organized. There lias
been a societv here for at least .30 years. The first Chnrch Board
consisted of 5 Trustees, with Secretary and Treasurer. Geo. W.
Brown was pastor at that time. Then came in succession ]levs.
Smith, Cook, Budd, Jennie Brothers, Birch, Woodruff, Magee,
Green, Atherton and Martin, who is the present Pastor.
The first I'aptist Church of Lee townshi]i was organized by l\ev.
Miner Nov. 20, 184U, and consisted of 1\. B., E,, Cordelia, Martha
and Corinna Guernsey, Louis and Abigail I^nper, Sarah and oNIary
Peirsol, Lucinda Martin, Bennetta Leach and Nancy Moor.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
Charlcft S. Alden was born in 1S40 in Xew York ; his parents
were Smith D. and Sarah E. (Runnion), natives of Massachusetts;
thev came to Fulton Co. in 18-13 and have lived here ever since.
Charles was in the war two years, in ^Co. H, 32d 111. Tnf ; fought
in the camjiaign from Chattanoga to Atlanta, and went in the grand
march to the sea. In 1871 he married Mary L. Barker, who was
born in 1853 in this State. Their children are : George S., A^'m.
D., Cora L. and a babe not named. Mrs. A. belongs to the
Methodist Church. Mr. A. owns 80 acres on sec. 18, — a nice farm.
P. ()., Bushnell.
Philip Ai/hirorfli was born April '20, ITDT, in Providence, R. I.,
son of Peleg and Anna Aylsworth, natives also of the same State;
came with parents to New York when (piite young; at 16 years of
age the familv removed to Pennsylvania, and in 1822 to Morgan
Co., 111., then to this county. Mr. Aylsworth laid off the town of
Beardstown and named it, and in 1 .S3."] he laid off Merodosia ; in
183.5 he came up into Fulton county and was the first settler in Lee
townshij), locating on an old Indian farm which he named P(»tato
Hollow, lie entered ten (piarter-sections of land. He now owns
120 acres, on sec. 11. Has always been a farmer. In 1827 he
married Miss Cloy Goodwell, a native of New York, and they had
4 children; she died July l9, 183!), and in 1S4.') he married Eliza-
beth Beers, born in ]S2(), and tiiey had <S children ; this wife died
in 1859 and Mr. A. married Cynthia Aylsworth, a native of New
York, and she died in 1863, leaving 2 children. ^Iv. A. was twice
elected Justice of the Peace, and was for a time Sheriff' of jMorgan.
county. P. ()., Babylon.
Jo.'tcph Brouni was born in 1842, a son to Jonas and Margaret
Brown, natives of Pennsylvania. Mr. Jonas was in the Mexican
war; is now dead, but Mrs. B. still lives. Joseph grew to manhood
in Indiana, and in 1865 emigrated to Fulton Co.; in 1866 he mar-
ried Serilda Zimmerman, l)orn in 1848 in this county. They have
had 5 children, 4 of whom are living. Mr. B. has been a carpen-
ter^ but is now a farmer, on sec. 5, P, O., Prairie City.
762 HISTORY OF FUI/rOX COUNTY.
n '//(. C. Buckner was born in Crawford Co., Ind., June 2, 1S18,
the son of Henry Bucknor. His parents were natives of Ken-
tuckv. AVm. C. came to Fulton Co. in 1833 and has lived here
ever since. He is a farmer in T>oo t]). In 1837 he was married.
Christian Church. Democrat.
Mindd J. Buvke, daughter of Dennis C. and Sarah E. (Glass)
Burke, was born in Deerfield tp. July 8, '57 ; was educated in the
common schools at Cuba; is a successful young teacher. Moralitv,
order and disci))line, first occupy her time and attention in the
school-room. Elocution and reading she makes a specialty. Her
mother was taken strangely ill in ^larch, '79, of what was termed
blood poison. The symptoms were those of hydrophol)ia, but her
actions were different in each spasm. She died April 21, 1871).
Her father is afflicted with lumj)s over his body, which the doctors
fail to name. P. O., Bushnell.
Harriet Cheyney was born in Dec, 1822, in Wayne Co., O., the
daughter of Wm. and Harriet (Bailey) Cunningham; her father
was born in Pennsylvania in 1792, and her mother in Conneeticut
in 1791; they are both deceased. Mrs. Cheyney was married in
Ohio, in 1841, to Thomas Cheyney, and next year they emigrated
to this county, where they have lived ever since, except 4 years in
Peoria. Mrs. C.'s children are: Helen, Cordelia, Rachel, ^lary and
Effie, — Cordelia and Rachel not living. Home comprises 220
acres. P. O., P>usiinell.
Noah W. Dunbar was born in Hartford, Ct., April 27, 1801 ; his
father, Bennett Dunbar, was born in Rhode Island, and died in
1807; his mother, Sabiah (Stutson) died in 1859; the fiimily emi-
grated to this tj). in 1845; Dec. 12, 1822, in Saratoga Co., X. Y.,
Noah W. married Sarah Hopps, a native of Greenfield, X. Y.,
born in 1802; have had 8 bovs and 9 girls, as follows: Sarah J.,
Oct. 30, 1823; Louis R., Sept. 2(5, '24; John H., April 4, '2G ;
Francis E., July 17, '27; Reuben M., Sept. 3, '28; Xoah W., Dec.
22, '29; Maria A., A])ril 12, '31 ; Helen A., Jan. 14, '33; Harriet
S., June 2, '34; Eliphalet R., March 5, '36; f:iiza W. and Elizur
N., May 10, '37; Fernando C, Mav 16, '39; Oscar F.,Oct. 21, '40;
Minerva O., Aju-il 11, '42; Saloma'A., Jan. 15, '44; Mary O., Nov.
10, '45. The father of German ancestry and the mother Irish.
Occuj)ation, farming and blaeksmithing ; res., sec. 5; land, 180
acres; politics, Democrat; 1'. ()., I'rairie City. Was Sergeant of
Militia in Hartford, and has l»eeii Collector and Road Commis-
sioner.
Georr/e Errr/y was born June 28, 1810, in Maryland, son of
David Everly ; farmer 9 years; March 22, 1832, he married Anna
Mary Hesson. About 1835 David and his two sons George and
David came to Illinois and entered a large tract of land in Deer-
field tj)., where J)avid, jr., remained, his lather and l)r6ther return-
ing to Maryland. In 1838 George moved to Illinois with his wife
and 4 boys, — Noah H., Jonas W., John S. and George, settling on
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 7G3
sec, 28, Doerfit'ld t}). Here they made a farm. They also put up a
saw-mill on Spoon river, on sec. 20. In 1858 they moved to sees.
22 and 23, Lee tp., and made a new farm on the ])rairie. George
died June 1, 1873. Noah II. received his education in the Wiley
school-house, an old-fashioned log hullding.
/. W. Everhi was horn in Carroll Co., Md., Sept. 11, 1834, the
son of George and Anna Mary (Hesson) l)oth natives of Md. : also
his grandfather and grandmotlier were natives of the same State.
His father came to this county when he was only 3 years old.
Jonas got his education in the common schools, but has acquired
more in business than he ever got in school. He has been all his
life a farmer and has made it a success. He owns 625 acres of land,
and 100 head of cattle. His improvements are good: has a fine
residence and is able to take the world easy, but he is diligent in busi-
ness and a livelv worker. In politics he is a Democrat; has been
School Director, but does not want office. He was married, Feb.
24, 18G7, to Anna C. Zimmerman, and their marriage has been
blessed with 4 children, — 3 girls and 1 boy, all of whom are living.
Noah 11. Everli/ was born in Maryland Feb. 3, 1833; his father,
George, was born June 28, 1810, and his mother, Anna M. (lies-
son), was born in Maryland Oct. 19, 1813; they emigrated to Deer-
field township, this county, in 1838, where Noah H. married Nancy
J. Curtis March 10, 1870, who was born April 14, 1851, at Virgil,
111. Mary E., born Oct. 21, 1875, is their only chiUl. Residence,
sec. 22 ; ha« 400 acres of land. In politics Mr. E. is a Democrat.
P. O., Prairie City.
Solon F. ludniKiii. His father, R. H. Fairman, was born Dec.
29, 1811, in Manlius, Onondaga, Co., N. Y. ; Sei)t. K), 1833, he
married Celestia Warren, and they became the parents of 5 children,
of whom 4 are living. Emigration — 1820 to Euclid, O. ; thence
to Elvria, I^orain Co., ()., Maclison Co., N. Y., Erie Co., Pa., Eake
Co., 111., in 18-1:5, and to Fulton Co. in 1865. Solon F. was born
in Erie Co., Pa., May 9, 1842; came to Fulton Co., 111., with his
father; married Oct. 20, 1874, Mary Scott; had one daughter
Aju-il 26, 1876. Mr. F. is a Republiea'n. Sec. 30, Eee tp. P. ().,
Bushnell.
William Hendi\i/.r was born in 1.S02, in Yates Co., N. Y. ; his
parents, Benjamin and Elizabeth (Boyd) Hendryx were also natives
of the Em])ire State, and William eitiignited first to Ohio, and then
in 1839 to Lee tp., this county. March 4, 1824, in Huron Co., O.,
he married Lucinda Day, wlio was born in Chittenden Co., Vt.,
in 1807, and tliev have "had 4 bovs and 8 girls: Elizabeth, born
July 14, 1825; Laura, Feb. 7, 1828; Nancv, Julv 29, 18.30; Ben-
jamin, May 1, 1832; Anna L., Aug. 2<S, 1834; Alzina, Oct. 16,
"1839; Sarah, Jan. 4, 1837; Wm. R., June 19, 1845; Corydon D.,
Feb. 2, 1841; Lucinda M., April 7, 1847; Mary C, Aug. 28,
1849; David S., Sept. 2, 1855. Parents are of German descent
and members of the Christian Church. Mr. H. is a farmer, and in
764 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
politics a Democrat. Resides on sec. 4, where he has 120 acres of
land. P. O., Prairio City.
Edirnrd Hexirorfh ; P. ()., Bal)vlon ; wa?^ born in Franklin Co.,
O., Nov. 4, 1848, son of Israel and Sarah (Markley) H., the former
residing now in Knox county, the latter deceased. They emitrrated
to Vermilion Co., 111., in 1852, and to Knox Co. in 1854. Edward
served in Co. H, 2d Iowa Vol. Inf., enlisting; at the early age of
16, and was in the siege of Atlanta and the battles of Resaca, Dal-
las, Kenesaw Mountain, the siege of Savannah, etc., being in Sher-
man's great march. He located in Babylon, this township, in 1877,
where he put up a store-building and has since carried on general
merciiandising with success. He is at jiresent acting Postmaster.
Hugh L. Hulick, farmer, sec. 9 ; P. ()., Prairie City ; was born
in Fulton Co. in 1831, a son of Isaac and Ruth A. ; his father was
a native of Pennsylvania and his mother of Ohio, near Cinninnati,
77 years ago; they emigrated to this county about 1827, and Mr.
H. died in 1852 or '53. Hugh L. married in 1865 Marv Jane
Louk, born in 1845 in this county. Their 6 children are: Albert
E., George, Charles, Roy, Mary and Lawrence. Mr. H. com-
menced with nothing, but by his own industry he has made for
himself and family a good home on 140 acres of land.
B. F. Lou/: was born in 1850 in this county, son of J. and Anna
Louk ; his father was a native of New York and his mother of Ohio ;
he married Elmira Clark in 1870, who was born in McDonough
county, 111., in 1854, and they have had 2 children, — Parepa A. and
Julia L. Mr, L. is a farmer on sec. 9 and stook-shipper ; has 120
acres of land. Has accumulated all his ])roperty by his own honest
labor. He and his wife are both members of the Methodist Church.
P. O., Prairie City.
Jeff ISO a Loiil: was boni in Genesee county, X. Y., June 6, 1822;
his parents, David and Clara Scott, were also natives of the Empire
State; the former died in 1845 and the latter in 18()9; their emigra-
tion to Lee township was in 1847. Jetferson married Anna Piersol,
Feb. 1, 1844, who was born in Holmes Co., O., Jan. 3, 1824, and
thev have 6 children, naniclv, Sarah J., born Xov. 25, 1844 ; David
L.,"julv 15, 1847; Benjamin F., Feb. 6, 1850; John P., Feb. 11,
1854 ; Charles F., June' 28, 1856 ; Julia E., Xov. 1, 1860. Farmer,
sec. 16; 400 acres; P. O., Prairie City; Republican; Methodist.
Eh<i Majorx was born in 18-2(! in ?]dmonson countv, Kv., son of
Thomas and PoUv Major.-. His lather was born in \"irtrinia and
his mother in Kentucky. He first came to Illinois in 1854, near
Swan creek, then to Greenbush, and then (1875) to this county. In
1859 he nuirried Elizabeth Patterson, who was born in 1838. They
have had 11 children. Mr. M. resides \l miles southeast of Babv-
lon. Democrat.
Chnrlex O. Xidrrson was born Feb. 4, 1816, in Green county, X.
Y. His father, Ezra \.. was born June 16, 1776, and died Dec.
27, 1859 ; his mother, ncc Anna Dodge, was born July 5, 1778, and
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 765
died Jan. 10, 1850. The subject of our sketch came to Fulton
countv Aug. 7, 1837 ; he married his first wife, ISlary Ann Scofiekl,
in Virgil, 111., April 29, 1843, who was born in New York Sept. 14,
1823, and died Feb. 26, 1867; his second wife, Augusta Doolittle,
was born in Broome county, N. Y., July 30, 1843, and married
Nov. 4, 1868. Mr. N. has had 6 children, as follows : Solomon R.,
Aug. 8, 1844; David H., May 2, 1846; Martha, June 5, 1848;
Sarah A., Aug. 31, 1851; Harriet L., Jan. 8, 1854; Myron E.,
Feb. 21, 1856. Mr. N. is a carpenter and farmer, owning 280 acres
of land, and residing on sec. 4 ; in politics he is a Republican. P.
O., Prairie City.
We.slcy OKborn. In 1836 Richard Osborn emigrated from Indiana
to Cass tp., this county, rented land for two seasons, and then set-
tled on sec. 32, Lee township. Wesley Osborn resides on the same
section, and as a farmer and stock-raiser has been very successful.
March 11, 1852 he married Miss R. A. Johnson, and they are the
parents of 7 children. Mr. (). has been Assessor, School Trustee,
and is now serving his second term as Su})ervisor. Democrat.
Stephen Payne was born in 1816 in Washington Co., O., son of
Abraham and Philomela Payne, natives of Connecticut, who died
aged 100 years; in 1850 Stephen emigrated to Iowa; in 1858 he
came to this countv ; served nearly 4 years, in the war, — first in Co.
D, 70th 111. Inf., then in Co. I, i6th 111. Cav., then transferred to
Co. E, V. R. C, and discharged at St. Paul, Minn., Sept. 5, 1865.
Mr. Pavne first married l^hcebe Rickey, who Avas born in 1812,
in Belmont Co., (). ; she died in 1<S4.'). In 1845 Mr. P. married
Catharine Dunn in Madison Co., ()., who was a native of Hanij)shire
Co., Va., and who died in 1865. Mr. Payne has had 11 children,
6 of whom are living. He has been a merchant, but is now a farmer
on sec. 5, Lee tp. Is Justice of the Peace, and in politics a Demo-
crat. P. O., Prairie City.
Joel I'J. Peirsol was born in Lee tp. in 1843; his father, Joel, was
born in Berks Co., Penn., and his mother's maiden name was Cath-
arine Emry ; emigrated to Lee tp. in 1837 ; in Prairie City, in 1870,
Joel E. married Ella L. Clark, who was born in Prairie City in
1853. Harry A., born in 1871, and John L., born in 1874, are their
children. Home 160 acres, sec. 21 ; P. O., Prairie City ; religion,
Mrs. P. is a Baptist : politics, Mr. P. is a Democrat, and has been
Township Collector and School Director. Father died in 1876 and
mother in 1852.
Hdi-rixon Ri(/(lon, the oldest settler in Lee tp., was born Dec. 12,
1812, in AUegiiany Co., Pa. ; went to Ohio with his father's family
in 1822; came to Canton, Fulton Co., in 1832, lived tliere two
years, then came to this tji. in 1S;54, where he has since resided. His
parents were Stei)hen and Jane Rigdon, the former a native of Ikirks
Co., Md., the latter of York Co., Pa. ; both dead. Mr. Rigdon came to
this county on horseback, or, as he says, walked most of the way
with most of his clothes, etc., tied on the horse's back. He came to
766 HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY.
Lee tp. in May, '34 ; lived alone until his father came Mith his family
from Canton in OctolxT following ; durino- this time he did not see
a white person. His father was in the war of 1812, Mr.
Rigdon has held the ottices of Town Clerk, Constable, Collector,
and diiferent school offices in the township, and was County Surveyor
one term. Was married Jan. 12, 1837, in Deerfield tp., to Prudence
Peirsol, who was horn in Beaver, Pa., May 25, 1817. She died
Sept. 17, 1877; was a member of the M. E. Church. By her he
had 4 children. Hiram, his eldest son, died Aug. 31, 1848. His
son Peter and two daughters are still living; has missed but one
election in the 45 years he has lived in township. The first sermon
preached in the township was in his father's house bv his uncle. Is
a very active old man of 67 years and still follows farmino:. All the
pioneers who came to this county with him have passed away. Has
been a Democrat since 1850. P. O., Babylon. Other interesting
facts related by this gentleman are given in this volume.
Jdhn I\oir/(utd was born in Cumberland Co., Ky., in 1828, son
of Wade and Winifred Rowland, natives of Henry Co., Va. In
1851 he married Sarah L. Young, who was born in 1832 in Tennes-
see ; emigrated to Mason Co., 111., in 1857; afterward moved to
McDonough Co., where in 1860 jNIrs. R. died. In 18(jl he enlisted
in Co. I, 11th 111., Cav., and served from Oct., 1861, to Oct., 1865,
having fought in the battles of Shiloh, Corinth, in raids with Sher-
man, etc. He then settled in Lee tp., where he is a prosperous
fiirmer, owning 100 acres of land on sec. 11. Feb. 27, 1862, he
married Anna M. Aylsworth, who was born in N. Y. in 1837. Bv
his first wife he had 4 children and by his second 3 ; all arc liv-
ing. Mr. R. is a Republican, and has been Road Commissioner.
Mrs. R. is a Methodist. P. O., liabylon.
Albert J). Scitddcr was born in Fulton Co., Jan. 14, 1856, son of
Dr. J. T. and Sarah A. Scudder, the former a native of Pennsyl-
vania and the latter of New York. Dr. Scudder practiced medi-
cine 15 years, and died in 1867 in this townshij). At the age of 20
ivlr. Albert D. Scutlder married Mai'tha A. Powell, who was born
in 1858, in >.'icholas Co., Ky. They lived in Warren Co., 111., two
years, and in 1867 came to Fulton Vo. They have three children,
— Flora M., John M. and Edith. Mr. S. is a farmer, and in poli-
tics a Democrat. Residence, sec. 16. P. O., Prairie Citv.
John Sh('IUiil)(ir(/cr was born in 1828, in Fayette Co., Penn., son
of George and Polly S., of the same State. When 16 years of age
he came to Fulton county with his parents; then went to Warren
Co. and lived two years; then in ]\Iarshall Co. six vears ; then in
Tazewell Co. one year; then Mcnt to Kansas, but finally located in
this county last March. John has folhnved railroadino;. He was
married to Miss Eliza J. Wilson in 1853, who was born in 1832 in
Grayson Co., Ky. Eleven children were born to them, 3 of whom
are dead. Mr. S. is farming ; has S-") acres of corn and 85 acres of
rye. Democrat. Lee tp., sec. 16; P. O., Prairie City.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 7G7
Joseph Spanghr was born in Franklin Co., O., March 6, 1835.
the son of Joseph and Mary Spanulcr, natives of Ohio. Joseph
came to Fulton C'o. in Oct., 1841). He is a farmer, and at ])resent is
the owner of 400 acres of land in Fulton Co., 111. He buys stock,
fattens it, and then sells. He was once a poor boy and worked by
the month for 6 years. He is a Republican. He was married in
18(33 to Hannah Odell, and they have one boy and one girl, living.
W. E. Sfreeter was born in 1841, in St. T/awrence Co., N. Y.,
son of Erasmus and IMucbe Streeter, the father, born in Vermont
in 1808, and the mother in New York in 1809; both these are liv-
ing, and came to Illinois in 1863, locating at Avon. In 1864 Mr.
W. E. Streeter married Martha E. Edmonson, who was born in
Tennessee in 1839. Their children are Lillian, May and Grace.
The family have by honest industry worked their way up from noth-
ing in 1863 to a nice home of 160 acres, on sec. 33. Mr. S. follow-
ed peddling in 1864-5, and was Constable one term. P. O., Bush-
nell.
Win'. 1 a?i//c»", sec. 2; was born April 1, 1830, in New Jersey,
and is the son of Cornelius A'^anliew, who was born in New Jersey,
where he pursued the occupation of farming, and where he died
about the year 1859. Our subject came to this county in 1855 and
settled in Fairview tp. In 1871 he moved to Lee tp., where he re-
sides, a well-to-do farmer and stock-raiser. He was married Feb.
18, 1858, to Elizabeth Young, of Joshua tp. They have 4 chil-
dren, viz: John Y., Anna, Ida C. and Mary Ella.
Jo.'fJnia ]V<i(/))er was born in 183(), in Northampton county. Pa.,
son of John and Susan \\'agner, also natives of Pennsylvania. In
1850 the family emigrated to Marshall county, 111., then to Ellis-
ville, this county. Joshua was in Colorado 7 years, where he fol-
lowed gold-mining; clerked in Prairie City two years ; and since
then has been a farmer and stock-raiser: is on sec. 17, Lee tp. Mr.
AV. crossed the })lains in 1859 with an ox team and has traveled a
great deal and suffered many hardships. P. ()., Prairie City.
A. A. Wheeler was born in Crawford county. Pa., in 1842, son of
Oliver C. and Margaret M. Wheeler, the former a native of North-
ampton, Mass., and the latter of Crawford county. Pa. At the age
of 13 the subject of this sketch came to Fulton county and has lived
here ever since; in 1863 he married Sarah J. Louck, who was born
in this county in 1844; they have had 5 chihlren, 4 of whom are
living. Mr. W. has been Townshi]) Collectoi-and Clerk; was again
appointed Clerk last spring (1879j. He is a Baptist and a Demo-
crat. Has 80 acres of land on sec. 16. P. ()., Prairie City.
768
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a full and complete list of the Supervisors,
Clerks, Assessors and Collectors serving in this township since its
organization :
SUPERVISORS.
Joel Peirsol 1850-51
Montgomery Sweeney 1852-53
A. W.Russell " 1854
J. H.Taylor 1855
Joel Feir.sol 1857
J. H. Taylor 1858
A. K. Sweenev lS59-(]2
John Cline...." 186.3-64
Wesley Oslwrne 1865
John Cline 1866
F. M. Williams 1867
Noah H. Everly 1869
Oliver Chatterton 1870-71
Noah II. Everly 1872
J. H. Taylor..." 187:]
J. W. Frederick 1874
Samuel Taylor 1876
Solomon Neff 1877
Samuel Taylor 1878
Wesley Osborne 1879
/O
TOWN CLERKS.
H. Rigdon 1859-69
Samuel Tavlor 1870-71
H. Rigdon' 1872
W. A.Guernsey 1873-76
A. A. Wheeler 1877
Willard A.Guernsey 1878
R. I. Baughman 1879
.\SSESS0RS.
Joel Peirsol 1859-60
N. W. Dunbar 1861
Joel Peirsol ISdi;
Newton Hev lS()7-(i9
W. F. Fainnan 1870
Newton Hey 1871
H. R. Fairman 1872-73
Joel Peirsol 1874-75
AV. H. Bell 1876
AVeslev Osborne 1877
W.H.Bell 1878
M. K. Sweeney 1879
COLLECTORS.
John Cline 1859-61
Newton Hev 1863
Peter P. Rigdon 1864
F. M. Willianre 186.5-66
John <T. Kreider 1867
Joel E. Peirsol 1S69
W. J. Beer 1870-71
David Louk 1872-73
A. A.Wheeler 1874
Wm. M. Bernhard 1875-76
Ira Molt 1877
I. N. Williams 1878
L. Olin 1879
LEWISTOWN TOWNSHIP.
This township is bounded upon the north by Putman township,
upon the east by Liverpool, the south by Waterford, and upon the
west by Bcrnadotte. Formerly most of its surface was covered
with timber, but muc^h of tliis has been cleared away and the land is in a
high state of cultivation. There are in the townshij) 13,471 acres
of improved land, with an average value of $24 per acre. Of un-
improved land there are 8,796 acres, with an average value of $9.40
per acre. There arc' in the township 851 horses, with an average
value of S7'2 per head. Of cattle tiicre are 1,857, having a total
value of $22,138. Indeed, as an agricultural township, Lewistown
ranks among the first in this fine agricultural county.
Many were the dark forebodings that crept into the minds of ev^en
the sturdy pioneers as they contemplated their situation in this vast
wilderness, especially so when they thought of the coming of win-
ter. They could live very comfortably in their rude cabins during
the warm seasons, but when the heavy snows and chilling winds
swept down upon them with all the fury of an artic winter, their
situation was anything but jileasant. Then their food was limited.
If they were so fortunate as to have a fair crop of corn upon the lit-
tle patch they had cleared away, it was almost an impossibility to
have it converted into meal. As illustrating this feeling we relate
the following story about Matthew Hulick. He was greatly
troubled with the "shakes," or, in other words, the fever and ague.
Toward the fall of the memorable vear remarkable for the abutulance
of rain-fall, he had an unusually severe attack of this Western
scourge. He was comjielled to take to his bed, where the greater
part of the day was sj)eut in energetic shaking, — indeed, such shak-
ing as would put to blush our modern fever and ague. One day
when in the midst of his contortions an old friend and neighbor
dropi)ed in and solemnly remarked, by way of consolation, "Never
mind. Mat; if worst comes to worst and you die now you won't
starve to death next winter." Cleanthes Arnett, of Liverjxxil town-
ship, stopped for dinner one day when 15 miles from home, and
found the people had nothing to eat but squash and j)otatoes. They
pointed to a sack of corn in the corner of the house which had been
carried on foot a total of 40 miles to be ground, all in vain.
A Snake Stonf. — While huntinir one day, Sam'l Wavne came sud-
denly upon a large collection of snakes of difierent species, inter-
twined thoroughly together, struggling and squirming in a knotty
770 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
C'lnbraco. A^'itll his rifle he shot into the disgusting mass, soon after
which the living ones eh'ared away and Ti were found perforated
with the h'a(U'n niesseng-cr.
An interesting anecdote was related by Mr. Lewis Ross — an early
pioneer boy of Fulton — at the Old Settlers' Reunion in 1<S71), which
attracted a great deal of attention, and which in the end proved to
be very laughable. It seems that Mr. Ross in com])anv with some
other pioneers, including Mr. Putman, were going to mill in a Hat-
boat on Spoon river in an early day (date not given), and on the
way they encountered a stumj), or "snag "in the river, which caused
the boat to spring a leak ; the greatest possible haste was necessary
to save the grain ijcfore the boat should sink. Xow, all these sturdy
pioneers, except Putman, could swim. ]\Ir. Ross related, therefore,
that they ])ut Mr. Putman on the " snag," and the rest of them swam
to the shore, and in the meantime the boat sank. Now, according to
Mr. Ross' story, about 50 years have elapsed, and for aught we know
Mr. Putman is still on that "snag" in the middle of Spoon river.
Later. — We have recently heard from Mr. Putman, and he says
that if he lives until the next Old Settlers' Reunion, he will tell the
people how he got off that " snag."
The history of the city is only that of the township, and as we
giv^e that below we will not consume space by repeating it here.
LEWISTOWN.
This beautiful little city is the oldest town in the county, and one
of the first that was laid off in the Military Tract, — the first, per-
haps, with the exception of one. It was laid off in April, 1822, by
Ossian M. Ross, and derives its name from the Hon. Lewis W.
Ross, his son, and wlio at that time was a small boy. Ossian ]\L
Ross was a native of the State of Xew York, and followed agricult-
ural ])ursuits in the Kmpire State. He married Miss ]Mary
Winans July 7, 1811, in Waterloo, N. Y. She was born April 1,
1793, in Morris county, N. J., and died only a few years ago. She
w^as a noble woman and possessed a fund of information of die early
history of this county, mo^t of which, however, was buried with
the good old lady. \)v give hci" ])ortrait in this work as a repre-
sentative pioneer woman. We know our readers will be glad to see
it ; and we would give also that of Mr. Ross, but he never had a
picture taken. After the war of 1812, in which ^Fr. Ross partici-
pated, he came into possession of three-fourths of a section of land
in the Military Tract. A ])ortion of this land is now occupied by
the city of Jv(;wisto\\ u. He came hci-e with his family in 1821 and
erected a cabin upon the site now occupied by Major Xcwton
Walker's residence. When it is remembered that at that time
Chicatro was situated so far in the wilderness that the news of the
massacre, which occurred at Ft. Dearborn only a few years before,
did not reach the iidiabitants of the State for many days after its
occurrence, and that St. Louis was only the resort of trappers and
(DECEASED)
WIFE ^"^ O.M.ROSS
^^th^jy
s.
lIISTOnV or FULTON COUXTY. 773
huntors, ?nmo idea may he had of tluMlarino;, energetic and resolntc
character of this man.
Mr. Stephen Dewey surveyed the town. He was tlien a youno;,
umuarriiMl ninn, hut he soon accepted tiie advice of Mr. Ross and
was married. Xot louix after this event of his life lie locate<l at
Lewi.stown and erected the tirst house in the old town. Fidton
conntv bein<>- or<>aiiizcd in 1823, a commission consisting of H. K.
Colter, Ste])hen C'hase -Ami John Totten was appointed by the Leg-
islature to select a location for the county-i^eat. Upon the 14th of
Fehruarv of that yeir these gentlemen decided in favor of I^ewis-
towu, since which time the public buildings have rcMnained here,
although desperate eiforts have been made to remove them to other
parts of the county. The very earliest history of the city is so
closely identified with that of the county as recorded in the third
chapter of this work, we refrain from repeating much of what j)rop-
erly is im])ortant historical matter relative to this city.
It will naturally be expected that in our historical sketch of Lew-
istown we will give more than a passing notice of those early and
prominent citizens whose fortunes were cast with the early history
of the place. For a period of eight years, from 1S21 to 1820,
Ossian M. Ross took a conspicnous ])art in jiromoting the enter-,
prises of the infant village, so far separated iVoiu civilization. He
was a man of great force of character, aud the utuiost coutidence
was reposed in him by the few inhabitants of the place, lie moved
to Havana, Mason county, in 1829, became its tirst merchant, and
there passed the remainder of his days. Stej)hen Dewey, the sur-
veyor and first settler of the town; is described as a social and intel-
ligent gentleman, and occupied various offices of trust and responsi-
bilitv. He erected several of the first buildings of the town.
David W. Barnes located here when he first came to the county,
which was in 1822, but he .soon removed to his farui near (^anton.
Hugh R. Colter, the first Circuit and County dcrk, and the first
Probate Judge, was an Irishman, well educated, indeed a fine
scholar and a man of great genius. H(> taught the first school ever
held in the county in this town. jNlr. Colter had the misfortune to
lo.se one of his lower limbs, and as a substitute wore a wooden lc<r.
He generallv wore a boot upon this artificial limb. He married
Miss Maria Ross, a sister of (). M. Ross, who died very soon after
her marriage. Mr. Colter went to the lead mines at (ialena
about 1826, and for manv vears .served as Recorder of White Co.,
Wis. He died at T/incastcV, Wis., in 187(5.
Thomas Lcc Ross was another pioneer here. He was the young-
est brother of O. M. Ross, and the first County Treasurer. He too
went to Galena and lives at present near that place in Wisconsin.
Stephen Phcljis, of New York, came from the Sangamo coun-
try, as Sangamon county was then known, and settled at Lewistown.
He is described by Col. Ross as a man of unusual business tact and
ability. He rented a portion of a building which stood in the
774 III8TOKY OF FULTON COUNTY.
southern i)art of the town, and opened a small stock of goods which
he liad purchased at St. Louis. The Indians were then 'numerous,
and in tradinti' with them lie secured cdnsiderahle means. He soon
was able to erect a store-huihlinjii: of his own, which lie did just
north of the brick bu;^iness buihliug owned and occupied by Ileurv
Phelps. Here he engaged in an extensive business. The style of
the firm name was 8te})hen Phelj)s & Son. He died about 1840,
after a life of unusual activity. After his demise the firm was
changed to iSIyron Pheljis c\: Son. Myron was an older son of Ste-
j)hen, and about 1841 admitted to partnership his son, HenrA' Phelps,
the present head of the Hi-ni. Mr. Myron Phelps died some two
years ago. His religious convictions were strong, and toward the
Church and business enterprises he was unusually liberal. During
his life he laid by a certain portion of his income toward the inter-
ests of religion.
William Proctor was also a noted character in early times. /He
settled here as early as 1825 or 1826. He started the first tannery
in the county during the first years of his settlement here. It was
his custom to trade leather for green hides with the pioneers in this
and adjoining counties. For the collection of hides he was com-
pelled to travel from Sangamon Co. to what is now Bloomington ;
thence to Fort Clark (now Peoria), Flint Hills (now Burlington),
Lewistown, Havana and home. The first time he visited Canton
was while making one of these trijjs, in the year 1824, from Fort
Clark. Night coming on, and the ])rairic having been recently
burned over, thus obliterating the track, he had to let his horses
take their own course. They brought up at the cabin of Major
Barnes, north of the present site of Canton. Mr. Henry Andrews,
who was then a member of Major Barnes' family, remembers the
incident. Me also started the tirst boot and shoe establishment.
He met with abundant success in his new enterprise. Later in life
he becanu',a farmer and money-lender. He died .Ian. 24, 187!».
Dr. Newton settled in Lewistown in a very early day, but re-
mained only a short time. His successor was Dr. E. D. Rice, who
came from Massachusetts. He was a voung; man when he came
here, and was possessed of integrity, honesty and ability. These
noble rpialities soon gained fi)r him a good jiractice in his profession.
He assisted very materially toward the building and progress of the
town, and became County Judge, or Judge of Probate and County
Recorder. He died in 1S78.
In 1847 Gen. L. F. Ross, now of Avon, antl of whom we speak
in connection with the history of I^nion township, was elected Pro-
bate Judge, succeeding Stephen H. Pitkins, also a prominent early
resident of the ])lace. Mr. Ri>ss became ])re-emin(Mitly identified
with tlie business interests of Lewistown. He distinguished him-
self as a soldier in the war of the Rebellion and in the Mexican war.
Truman Phel|)s was the proprietor of the first hotel in the place.
It was a two-story frame building Avith a porch, and stood upon the
site now occupied by the residence of T, F. Stafford.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 775
Another <2;ontloman of ])r()niiiionce was H. B. Evnii^, who was a
native of ^"i^^■inia. IIo came to Lewistown in 182H or 1<S29. For
several years he was (.'ounty (Merk, and, in e(jnneetion with Xathan
Beadles, entered actively into bnsiness. About 1856 he erected the
large brick store building now occupied by Edwin Harris. Nathan
Beadles came to the county in 18'2i>, and in 18;33 came to I^ewis-
town and engaged at his trade, whi<'h was that of a tailor, and was
probably the first tailor in the town. In time he became an exten-
sive dealer in live stock, and then began merchandising. He ac-
cumulated wealth (juite ra])idly, and has done much to beautify the
city and to advance its interests. In 1870 he, Avith others, erected
Beadles' Block, in wiiich is one of the finest public halls to be
found in any of the snuiller cities of the State.
In 1834 came Martin Eichelberger, who is now a prominent mer-
chant of Lewistown. He was born in l*ennsylvania, and came to
Lewistown without other capital than character, integrity and hon-
esty. Shortly after his arrival he opened a small shop for the manu-
facture of saddles, harness, etc. He transacted a fair business for
a number of vears and began merchandising with John Proctor
about 1850. For a numlier of years he officiated as Postmaster and
Mayor,
Major Newton Walker came in 1835. About his first business
after his arrival was to superintend the construction of the present
court-house. He was a young man of great energy and took con-
siderable interest in his work, and at its completion the new court-
house was among the best, if not the very best public building in
the State. Tlie plans and specifications were all drawn by Major
Walker. During the time of its erection he built a large sleigh
within the buihling, and ujion completion the sleigh was found to be
too large to be taken out of any opening in the structure. At
this, great merriment was excited and sundry measures were resorted
to for its removal, but it was too big to be gotten out whole. The
county officials formerly occu])icd a small frame structure which at
present stands just in rear of the new j)rinting iiouse of the Lewis-
town Democrat. AVm. Mc.Comb, of wliom we speak at greater length
below, was for a number of years Circuit Clerk.
D. J. Waggoner came in 1843, and for a lunnber of years worked
in a chair factory. He was I)c])uty Sherifl' and for many years
served the county as Sheriff and was always j)oj>uIar. He is still
living at Lew'istown, and a gentleman of unusual ability, energy and
enterprise
Dr. R. R. McDowell was also an early settler.
Col. L. W. Ross, in honor of whom the town was named, was
brought to the place when nine years of age. During the autumn
of 1832 he joined Major Bogart's battalion and traveled over the
country between the ^lississipjii and Illinois rivers, then upon the
outskirts of civilization, for tlie protection (jf frontiersmen. While
at Galena he saw the great Indian chief, Black Hawk,
770 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
We could mention here a long list of familiar names, but as we
give them in alphabetical order on i^ubsequent pages, we will not
rci)oat them here.
Since the oriirinal town was platted manv additions have been
laid out, as given below.
R. C. Simms, a farmer and land speculator, laid out an addition to
the town of Lewistown, which was a subdivision of the original tract.
Soon afterwards James Veils made an addition ; then J. W. Saun-
ders made one south of the original town, which ctunprised lo acres.
Wm. Proctor also made an addition. AVm. Phelps made a 15-acre
addition upon the eastern part of the town. The Seminary addition
was next made. It comprises 20 or 25 acres. PeirsoFs a«ldition
which is just cast of the former, was then laid (»ut by J. H. Pcirsol.
It comprises about <S acres. There is still another small addition,
which was made by Xathau Beadles, comprising 2 acres; and in the
southern part of town Wm. Proctor laid out the second addition
bearinc his name, and in the northern iiart of toAvn is Peirsol's
second addition.
In 1828 a log court-house was erected in the vicinity of the place
where the present one now stands. This was used till about 1830,
when the old frame structure was erected, and in 1838 the present
building was built at a cost of about §10,000.
The iirst postotHcc was located in the southern part of town, and
Hugh R. Colter was perhaps the first postmaster. The mail
was received once a week, and the long journeys the lone horseman
would make through the wild country were not always pleasant
ones.
The first child born in the town was Luciuda Ross, daughter of
Mr. and Mfs. O. M. Ross. She was also the first child born in the
county.
It would perhaps be uninteresting to follow the minutiae of the
growth and progress of the town from its earliest infancy, as nothing
of special note occurred. Immigrants came in and erected houses,
embarked in various kinds of business and increased the wealth of
the town, while some would leave and seek their fortune at other
points. For some vears the town grew rapidly, but it has sufiered its
seasons of adversity as well as enjoyed those of prosperity. At
present it can truly boast of being as pleasant and prosperous as any
t<twn throughout the State.
We will now speak of the business, religious and educati(tnal in-
terests of the city, past and present. School was first taught in the
log court-house. The first building especially erected for the in-
struction of the pioneer children was put up by the Masonic fraternity.
It was constructed of hewn logs and occu])icd the present site of the
Presbvtcrian church. When Mr. Ross laid out the town he donated
."Several lots to the public for the court-house, jail and church to be
erected upon. Tpon this tract was built the Masonic building re-
ferred to.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. / ( /
I
The Methodists wore aniono; the first religious denominations to
be established here. Tliev worshii>ed in the.oourt-hoiise. The first
pastor now ealled to mind was Rev. Jaeob Ellis, who built the first
water-mill in tiie county, and also the first eotton-iiin. The })rodue-
tivesoilot" Fulton eountv thi-n raised eonsideral>le of this staple
article. It is supposed that a man by the name of West was the
first Methodist minister to preach here, but we cannot ascertain
whethci' this is the fact or not.
The first church for regular worship was built l)y Win. Proctor
and was used by the Presbyterians. The Presbyterians of Fulton
county organized a Church Sept. 13, 1828, There were eight mem-
bers, and meetings were held at both Canton and Tjcwistown. This
was the organization of the Presbyterian Church of Lewistown.
The fine edifice they now occupy, which is located upon the Scjuare,
is very largely the result of the liberality of Myron Phelps. Rev.
J. F. Magill has ofiiciated as Pastor for about nineteen years. The
congregation is one of the largest in the county. Henry Phel])s is
Supt'rintendent of the large and interesting iSunday-school.
The Methodist denomination have a good brick church edifice situ-
ate at the northwest corner i>f the Square The congregation is in
a prosperous condition and under the pastorate of Rev. C. W.
Ayling. L. R. Rays is the Su[)erinten(lent of the Sunday-school.
The Christian Chureh have a pleasant frame building situated
east of the Square two blocks. It is the last church structure that
has been erected in the city. Elder M. Ingels is Pastor. The Sun-
dav-school is under the superintendencv of II. C. Hasson.
The Ejiiscopal Church at present have no regular services. The
congregation has a beautiful, small church edifice in the north-
eastern part of the city. The parish was organized Monday, July
19, 18o0, under the name of St. James Church. The following
nam(>d gentlemen were elected Wardens and Vestrymen : S. C.
Judd, Sen. W arden ; Dr. (r. 1). McManus, Jun. Warden ; and James
M. Davidson, Win. H. Graliam, T. A. I>oyd, Henry A. I^ong, Do
Witt C. Brvant and Isaiah C. Worlev, Vestrvmen.
The magnificent schocil l)ui]ding which stands in the northern
part of the city was erected in l-Sli!). It is constructed of brick and
is one of the largest and finest school buildings in the county. It
is presided over by Prof Leroy S. Bates.
3I((niifacfiiriti(/ (iiid J>iisinc!<s Jufrrcs-fs. — As early as 1824 Thomas
L. Ross started a small i'actory fi)r the manufactory of hats. Pie
ran this factory until he moved, to Galena. His successor was Mr.
MeCunc, who made a fair living at his occupation, but was of a de-
spondent di'^position and one day took the suicide's short route to
eternity. With him died the hatters' art in Lewistown. In a very
earlv dav .lohn ^^()lcott be<>an tiie manufacture of brick. Since
then many enterprising men have eml)arked in this business. At
present William Jones and J. C. Wilcoxen are engaged in making
brick. Eastman Call was the first to open a blacksmith shop,
46
778 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
especially after the town was laid off and building up. Ossian ^I.
Ross brought a blacksmith named Nimon with him when he came
to the county, who, with a shoemaker by the name of Swotling, and
a carpenter, name not now remembered, were the first artisans in the
county. Mr. Call's shop was located where the house of C. Proc-
tor now stands. John Culver was the next to open a shop. He
di'cd some years ago. Martin Eichelberger was the first to o})en a
saddlcrv and harness shoji, which he did in the south part of town.
In 1841 or 1842 Wm. I). Kelly and Capt. Wm. Phelps erected a
large flouring-mill, which was destroyed by fire in 1X45. D. A,
Burgett built the second mill, which also was destroyed by fire. On
the site of the old one a larger mill was erected, which has enjoyed
a l)ig and successful run.
In the early history of the town a man by the name of Powers
established a woolen mill which was only short-lived, as Messrs.
Worlev ct Proctor erected an extensive mill for the purj)ose of man-
ufacturing woolen goods and this overshadowed the smaller factory.
This mill was destroyed by fire. In 18()o they began again on the
old site, and now have a factory that will compare favorably with
any in this part of the State. Mr. Proctor several years ago began
the manufacture of wagon spokes and hubs in the eastern ])art of
the citv. This business soon failed, and now the premises are con-
verted into a tile factory.
Over forty years ago Lewistown boasted of a saw-mill. Samuel
Brown was the first to conduct a business of this kind. His suc-
cessors were his sons. Samuel Brown and Samuel Dnvall ran a mill
for some time. The last one in the city was owned and occupied by
John Routson, which was recently destroyed by fire. He trans-
acted a large and lucrative business at this mill, selling large quan-
tities of lumber to the C., B. & Q. Railroad. ■Messrs. Wysock &
Phelps are manufacturers of carriages, i)uggic'.- and wagons. These
are the prin('ij)al factories in Lewistown, although there are other
men who display considerable enterprise in the manufacture of fur-
niture, etc. Prominent among them are C. AV. Beltz I'c Co.
Bnnh. — A bank was estai)lished about 1850 by John W. l*roctor.
He disposed of his interests to M. Turner, (icorgc S. King united
with Mr. Turner and in 1871 organized a National Bank. It is lo-
cated in Beadles' Block.
Mrrc/idnfs. — For many years there was a row of buildings in the
open sj)ace between the court-house and Presbyterian church. These
were used both as dwellings and business houses, but wlien the
Presbyterian church was erected they were removed, and now a
small open sfpiare remains. We will briefly refer to the leading
business men of the city. Phelps ct ]*roctor are large dry-goods
dealers, and own the building they occupy. They also deal in lum-
ber. Ross <t Hinde began business in 1874. Eichelberger & Sons
are also jirominent merchants. A. I>. Howe also deals in dry -goods.
E. F, Stafford is a grocer and baker. Edwin Harris is engaged in
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 779
o-ononil morcliandiso. Wni. 1>. Jiidd deals in liroccrlcs and hard-
ware. A. P. Munson keeps an eleji'ant assortment of croekery and
glassware. J. M. ^^'allaee is largely engaged in the drng trade.
Hasson & Son, Tompkins <S: Standard also haifdle drngs. Hasson &
Bnrgett deal in hardware. H. F. Ufford, a pioneer from the Em-
pire State, handles clothing and gents' furnishing goods. AV. W.
Fox conducts the jewelry trade of the place. Misses F. and C.
Phelps conduct the news depot and deal in books, etc. (). H. Bliss
is engaged in general merchandising. A. Willison manufactures
and deals in saddles and harness, and in connection with this runs a
livery. James Arundale also keeps a good livery stable. JNlrs. K.
Cunningham and Mrs. R. F. Griffith conduct the millinery trade.
Burgett c^' Willcoxen are the millers. 1j. B. Bays controls the
])hotogra])hic trade of the city. (leorge Mayer conducts a meat
market, as also does Charles Fhrenhardt. Phel])s c^- Foote deal in
lumber. W. C. Slaton and R. F. (Jriffitli are engaged in the man-
ufacture of wagons. Besides these there are many other business
establishments, such as restaurants, boot and shoe shops, etc., etc.
Ilofc/s. — During the past summer Mr. John CJustine re])aired and
fitted uj) the brick building on Main street, one block north of the
Court-house Square, and opened a hotel, which he is successfully
conducting. This building was erected by Wni. Proctor.
The M'illison House is a hotel situated south of the Square, and
is ctmducted in first-class style.
The Standard House, on the southeast corner of the square, the
largest hotel in the city, was erected by Capt. \Vm. Phelps. It
was first thrown open to the public about 1854, with Capt. Pheljis
as landlord. His successor was John liliss, who in turn was suc-
ceeded by Jeremiah Iloberts. Wm. Standard for a nund)er of years
conducted this hotel and gave it the name it bears now. A short
time ago he dis])osed of the ]>ro])erty to his son, Georg;e Standard.
l^tpcrs. — There are two excellent weekly newsp:q)ers published
in tlu^ city, — the Dnaorraf, edited and published by Mr. W. T.
Davidson, and the IVcws, by Mr. George Yarnell. We refer the
readers to the cha])ter on the Press for sketches of these journals.
Profef<sional. — ProniiiKMit among the professional gentlemen of
th(> city are Judge S. P. Shope, Attorneys Henry L. Bryant, John
A. Gray, Frank 1>. (jregory, Thomas A. Jioyd, L. W. Ross, J. W.
Bantz, W. S. Fdwards, A. ^I. liarnett, N. C, Laws, Harry Wagoner,
J. W. Dyekes, John S. Winter and H. W. Baughmau.
The medical profession is represented bv the followin<r gentlemen :
Drs Alex. Hull, H. P. Sti])p, (J. W. Jolinson, W. (J. IVirsol, John
R. McDowell, Dr. Talbott, F. T. Campbell, and W. S. Fuhr, dentists.
LOIMiKS AND ASSOCIATIONS.
MaKOaic. — As we have before stated, the Masonic- fraternity
erected a buildiiiir which was used as the first school-house. The
lodge then organized is still in existence, and is known as No, 104.
780 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
They own a jiortion of the building on tlie southwest corner of the
Scjuare, erected by C'ol. Ross in 1<SG<S, and meet in the third story.
Among the members of this order here are found many men of
prominence and wealth. It is one of the most powerful lodges in
the State. Officers are E. T. Moore, W. M. ; Frank P. Paull,
Sec'y ; H. W. Baughman, S. W,, and H. C. Hasson, J R.
/. 0. of 0. F. — Fulton Lodge No. 51 was organized as early as
1839. The lodge-room is over E. Harris' store. The lodge has
prospered and has a large membership. The j^resent officers are
Jacob Smith, N. G. ; Frank Allison, V. G. ; C. R. Jordan, Sec'y;
John Hunter, Treas.
/. 0. G. T. — Fourteen years ago the temperance movement
awakened considerable interest in Lewistown, and many of the more
reputal)le citizens organized a society under the name and aus])ices
of the Good Templars. Since its organization it has accomplished
much good, and many persons addicted to the use of strong nlrink
have signed the pledge and quit its use. The organization own the
building they occupy, is out of debt, and their rooms are so attract-
ive that many are induced to leave evil associations and spend many
of their spare hours there.
In 1877 the great ribbon temperance wave struck this part of the
country and Lewistown was not behind in becoming awakened upon
the great (juestion of temj)erance. Her peoj)lc had been aroused
upon this subject before, but never were they so enthusiastic and de-
termined to crush the hydra-headed monster as then. The Wash-
ingtonian movement, which swept like a mighty tidal wave across
the land, reached this county in the winter of 1840. Some eight or ten
years later there was a general interest throughout the State upon the
subject of prohibition. Meetings were held in Lewistown, and many
of the old settlers well remember these movements. They well re-
member some of the early temj)erance workers. Among them are
Mr. Pease, the '* Blind A|)ostle of Temperance," of Knox county, and
Hiram S. Thomas, of X'ermont, this county. The Sons of Temper-
ance movement will also be remembered for the good it did. The
great crusade wave, which in the winter and spring of 1<S74 swept
over Ohio and the adjacent States was felt here, but the greatest
tem])erance tidal wave seemed to ])ass over the entire country during
1877 and the early part of 1S7.S. Every where temperance meetings
were held. The blue, red and white ribbon were seen attached to
every coat and adorning almost every lady. The grand wave was
at fidl tide in Lewistown about this period. The intensest enthusiasm
])revaih'd. 'J'he whole heart of the community, the cultured and re-
fined, the degraded and depraved, rich and poor, one and all were
actuated and moved by one mighty j)ulsation of common interest in
the great work of temperance and reform. The rather conservative
city of Lewistown was moved as it never had l)een before. The
clergymen as a unit entered heart and soul in the work, and with
glowing, anxious hearts^ winning words and personal influence as-
<^^A i(^.
fO£CEA££D)
OF THE
UNIVERSITY Of ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 783
sisted in the labor of love. Earnest work was the motto of all.
Those who were moved by tender, loving sympathy in their hearts
for fallen hnmanity, as well as those who had felt the pangs of in-
temperance in their own exi>erience, worked in harmony and unity
side by side. All minor diti'ercnees and distinctions were lost sight
of, and on every hand men of all classes met as brothers laboring
in a common cause.
Meetings hav^e been kept up, and now every Thursday night a
large audience gather at Beadles' Hall to witness the programme pre-
pared by the Ladies' Temperance Society. These meetings are
highly entertaining and greatly appreciated by the entire populace.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
We will close the history of this city and township by giving
personal sketches of the leading citizens and old settlers:
J. H. Arncft, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 24; P. O., Lewistown ;
was born in Bath county, Ky., March 27, 1832 ; his fither, Cleanthes
Arnett, a farmer, was also a native of the same State, where he mar-
ried Margaret Dean; they have had 12 children, of whom J. H.,
the subject of this sketch is the 4th ; when 4 years of age the family
emigrated to Sangamon county, 111., and one year afterward came to
Liverpool township, this county, where he bought land in 1836.
In 1852 he married Elizabeth Yunt, daughter of Jacob Yunt, of
Indiana, an early settler in this county and a soldier in the Black
Hawk war. Mrs. A. 's grandfather organized the first Masonic lodge
in this county. James H. Arnett began life here in moderate cir-
cumstances, but has been energetic and has now a good farm of 200
acres. He 'has had 10 children, 9 of whom are living, — William,
Cleanthes, Rufus, Cyrus, Ida, W., Alva, Mary, Sophia and
Lizzie (deceased). During the war Mr. A. was U. S. enrolling offi-
cer. Methodist. Repblican.
James Arundale, of the firm of Arundale & Brothers, proprietors
of livery stable, was born in Fulton county. 111., in 1844, son of
Abel and Sarah (Harrison) Arundale, who emigrated to America in
1838 and settled in Putman township, where he (Abel) died in 1866.
His wife survived him until 1875. James opened his present place
of business in 1871. Was married in 1877 to Miss Marv Turner, a
native of this county. Mr. A. is serving the second term as con-
stable in this city. He enlisted in 1864 in 132d I. V. L, Co. E, and
served 6 months.
J. W. Banfz, lawyer, Lewistown, was born in Loudon Co., Va.,
in 1850. His parents were John and Mary A. (Marchant) Bantz,
natives of that State, where his father is still living ; his mother
died in 1870. J. W. commenced the f^Jtudy of law in 1868 at Clear-
field, Pa., in the office of J. B. McEnally ; was admitted to the bar
in 1872, and began practice in that city the same year ; settled in
Lewistown in July 1875, where he has followed his professional
784 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
oallinti:: to the present time ; is .serving as Township Attorney and
an otHeer in the I. (). O. F. He was married July 15, 1879, at
Canton, to Miss Kate V. Craig.
Joseph Barcl((i/, deceased, was born in Va., went to Ohio in his
lOtli year, where he engaged in farming; married Mary Harris;
had i) ehihh'en : IMargaret, Ciitharine, .Vndrew J., Isaac, John,
Thomas, Mary, Robert and William. Emigrated to Fulton Co. in
1828 or '20, settling in Harris tj)., then in this township on 1(50
acres, which he purchased from Oliver Jones ; was soldier in the
Black Hawk war; died Jan. 22, 18G8; belonged to a tem])erance
lodge and the jNIethodist Church. Mrs. B. still lives, aged 73 years.
Win. Bdrcldji, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 30 ; P. O., Lewistown ;
was born on the homestead in this county in 1844, the youngest of
the family; in ISTOhe married Margaret Livingston, daughter of
Geo. L., of Ohio, and has had 3 children, — Lorin AV., James A.
and Oscar L. Has been School Director. Geo. Livingston, farmer,
married Sarah Sim])son in Ohio, had 12 children, came to this tp.
32 years ago, and located ui)on KJO acres of land; had 90 when he
died Sept. 2, 1879. Margaret Barclay was his youngest child.
Isaiah Barnes, farmer, etc., was born in Monroe Co., O., in 1845;
came to Fulton Co. in 1855; enlisted in Co. D, 151st 111. Inf, and
was in the army of the Cund:>erland ; discharged in 1856; returned
to Fulton Co.; owns 50 acres in this tp ; married Xaomi Wiieeler,
of Kansas, and they have an ado])ted child. P. O., Lewistown.
Mary Barnes, relict of Jesse Barnes who died during the cholera
epidemic of 1S53, was born in Ohio in LSI 4, daughter of Thos. Mc-
Telar ; married in Ohio and came to Fulton Co. in 1852. Her
children are Thomas H., Nancy J., Isaiah, John and Mary. On
arriving in this county Mr. 15. bought 100 acres of land of ]\latthias
Hulick, which ground is still occupied by Mrs. Barnes. She was
raised a (Quaker, but has belonged to the ISIethodist Church ever
since she was l(j years old.
A. M. Jtarncff, lawyer, was born in Illinois .Ian. 7, 1847, son of
R. F. and Margaret B., natives of A irginia ; came to Lewistown in
1872, entering the law office of Judge Shope ; was licensed to prac-
tice by the Supreme <^'(Uirt in 1875; is doing a fair business; May
23, 1877, he married ^liss Tomj)kins, who was born in Lewistown
in 1855; they have one child, Fdward, who was born Feb. 21,
1878. Mr. B. is a member of the ISIasonic order. Residence,
Lewistown.
Praf. Lcroi/ '^. Bnfcs, ])rincipa1 of the public schools, was born in
Chicopee, near Springiield, Mass. ^\'hen quite young his j)arents
brought him to Illinois, locating near Princeton, afterward in Rock
Island county, i)ut not finding educational advantages as good as
they desired, they soon moved to Galesburg. AVhile attending
school Ml". Bates gave much of his attention to music, and soon be-
came organist for the First' Jiajitist Church, which position he filled
for several vears. He verv earlv united with that Church. Hav-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 785
ing completed his education at Galesburg, Mr. B. became principal
of the public schools of Noble, 111., after which he took charge of
the Sandoval (111.) |)ublic schools. From the latter place he removed
to Judsonia, Ark., where he became professor of music in Judson
University. While there Gov. Elisha Baxter appointed him Super-
intendent of Public Instruction f<jr White county. Finances in
Arkansas being in a bad state. Prof. Bates returned to Galesburg,
and became principal of the Fifth Ward school in that city. Here
he married Miss Emma Crocker, who was born in Henderson Co.,
111., but soon after came with her parents to Galesburg. She early
became a member of the Baptist Church. They were married in
Galesburg, Aug. 8, 1876. Soon afterward he took charge of the
Avon j)ublic schools, where he remained three years. Of his work
the Avon Soifiiicl g'tve^i a very flattering testimonial. Leaving Avon,
he became principal of the Lewistown schools, which position he
now occupies. He has never been absent from the school room a
single school day, except on two occasions, — the death of his father
and that of a friend.
L. B. B(i}/.s, ))hotographer, succeeded his brother, S. B. Bays, in
business in 1870, who was the first operator in Lewistown. Mr. B.
was born in Hardin county, Ky., 1828, and is the eldest son of
John W. Bays, who settled in Chami)aign county, where he died in
184(3 ; (!ame to this county in 1847 and engaged in clerking until he
opened his present gallery ; was married in 1852 to Miss Lydia Ed-
mundson, a native of Tennessee, by whom he has two children,
—Albert and George. Mr. B. enlisted in 1862 in the 72d I. V. I.,
Co. I, and served ."> years; particijxited in the siege of Vicksburg,
Franklin, Tenn., and Nashville.
JSafhan Beadle.^ was born in Danville, Ky., in 1811, the son of
Rice and Sarah (Adams) Beadles, natives of Virginia, where his
father died in 18] !l. His mother, with 3 sons and 2 daughters,
came to this county in 1829 and settled near licrnadotte, where she
died in 18.'U, and all the other children have passed to their long
home. The subject of this sketch came to this city in 1833 and en-
gaged in tailoring three years, when he began a mercantile pursuit,
and engaged entenslvely in beef and j)ork-j)acking for 15 years. He
retired from the business j)ursuits of life in 1<S(>(), but subse(juently
engaged in real estate in this city and Chicago. He erected the
block properly called I>eadles' Block, in 1874-5, at a cost of $45,000,
and also erected the Methodist church and parsonage. There is no
man in this community who has done more for the advancement
and growth of the city than Nathan Beadles. He was married in
this county in 1836 to Miss L. Smith, a native of Banner county,
Ky., who died in 1842. He was again united in same county to
Miss Luan Leejier, who died in June, 1878. Mr. B. served as
County Collector in 1842, and cast his first vote for Gen. Jackson,
being a life-long Democrat. Was Vice-President and Director of
N. G. R. R., and is one of the oldest living settlers of this county.
786 IIIRTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
B. F. Benrce. Among the prominent farmers of this township
we class Mr. B. He resides on sec. 4 ; P. O., Lewistown. He
owns 290 acres of huul. He is the son of Eli and Sarah Bearce,
])ioneers of the county, cominji; in l''^25 when the red man roamed
and reigned siipreiuj, and lielpijd to change it frum a barren waste to
a fruitful field. Our subject was born here April 24, 1834; was
married Feb. 8, 1855, to Lydia Cornell, who was born in Ohio Dec.
1, I8.3(j. By this union they have 12 children, 7 living: Eli,
Emma, Bertha, Richard, Ijeonidas, James, Leonard. Those dead
are Mary A., William and Priscilla. Mr. B. has been School Direc-
tor for 15 years.
Orson Bearce, farmer, sec. 10; son of Eli aind Sarah Bearce, the.
latter still living at the ripe old age of Si'). Mr. B. was born in
New York April 1, IS] 9, and came into the State in 1824 with an
ox team. He enjoyed but little advantages to gain an education.
He was married in 1842 to Betsy Brown. She was born in Ohio
about 1822 and died Sept. 9, 1852. Was married April 3, 1853, to
Jane McNeal. They have 8 children : Reui)en, Eliza, Frank, Anna,
John, Charles, Jacob and Nellie. We give his ]>()rtrait.
C. ir. Belts, of the firm of C. W. Belts & Co., furniture manufac-
turers, was born in Livingston Co., N. Y., in 1841, and emigrated
to the West in 1857, settling in Prairie City, McDonough Co.,
where he engaged at his trade until he moved to this city and opened
the present place of business in 1875. The firm deals exclusively
in furniture, jobbing and turning, and command a large trade. He
was married in Sept., 1870, to Miss Sarah E. Walter, a native of
Knox Co. Plarrv W. is their only child.
John Jivrrji, farmer, sec. 12; was born in Indiana and brought to
the Prairie State with the family about 1843; his parents were
Elijah :ni»l Elizabeth Berry, also natives of Indiana; in 1861 he
married Louisa Bici's, born in Ohio about 1833, and they are the
])ai'cnts of 12 childi'en, 11 of whom are living, — Amanda, Leonard,
Laura E., Lester Jj., Elizabeth A., Ida M., Deborah V., John W.,
Edith, Alice M., Frances P]., Verna J. and an infant deceased.
Mr. Ji. owns 160 acres of land in good cultivation. Democrat. P.
()., Ticwistown.
Jolin Bliss was born in \"irginia in 1812. His father, Christian
Bliss, came from Germanv to this countrv in earlv dav and settled
in Philadelphia ; went thence to Ijancaster, Pa., thence to Virginia.
Mrs. B. moved to Kentucky when John was in his 6th year; in
this commonwealth \\v learned the art of cabinet manufacture, and
there he married ^L's. Eliza J. McTigat, daughter of John McT.,
in his 22d year; in 1833 he came to Fulton county, settling in this
tp. ; after following his trade some time alone he went into partner-
ship with Fvans in mercantile business 3 years; then 6 years after
that he bought what is now the Standard House, in conducting
which he was very successful. In l.S()5 he put up the building
lUljoining the hotel, and in 1S(),S retired from business, buying a
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 787
farm of lo2 acres and buildino- a liandsome frame resiflenee. Sold
the hotel this year. Was l*oliee ^Magistrate awhile: in all apj)eals
from his decisions he was sustained. Is a Mason, Son of Temper-
ance and Presbyterian.
James Bolcnder, farmer, etc., on sec. 25 ; P. O., Lewistowai.
Born in Clermont Co., Ohio, in 1818; brought up on a farm; mar-
ried in Brown Co., O., Catharine Shinkle (daughter of Christian S.),
by whom he had 8 children, 5 now living, as follows: Daniel,
Levi, Lydia A., Catharine E. and Mary Ann ; the deceased are,
John H., Henry AV. and Ely. Mr. B. came to this township in
1840, M'hen he bought 40 acres of land; he now owns 45. Baptist.
Re})ublican.
Stephen BoJender, farmer, etc., sec. 25 ; P. ()., Lewistown. This
man was born in Clermont Co., O., Feb. 4, 1820, the 5th child of
his parents ; settled in this township in an early day, purchasing a
half section of land, which he has since turned into a valuable farm.
He now owns, however, but 51 acres. He is a Baptist, and in poli-
tics is independent. April 24, 1845, he married Lydia Buffum,
daughter of Hiram B. They have 5 children, — Henry, Walter,
Sarah, Caroline and Lydia A. Mrs. B, died in November, 1854.
April, 1855, Mr. B. married Mary E. Coleman, daughter of Jere-
miah C. They have had 5 children, 4 now living, — Martha, Mary
Jane, Elva, Emeline, and Jeremiah, who died in 1857. Henry
Bolcnder, Stephen's father, was a native of l^cnnsylvania, a farmer,
who moved to Clermont Co., ()., in early day, where he engaged in
farming and blacksmithing, and where he married Catharine Shin-
kle and had a family of 12 children.
Georfje W. I>i>r<hicr, fanner and stock-raiser, sec. 36 ; P. O.,
Lewistown; was born in Jjicking Co., ()., in 1826; came to Lewis-
town tp. in 1850; married Mary Ann Bolcnder, and their children
are Marion, Sarah and Henry. Mrs. B. died in 18()0, and in 1861
Mr. B. married Catherine Bolcnder. In 1852 he bought l.'>() acres
of land, but now has 400 acres, in good condition. He is a Demo-
crat.
Jonathan Bordner, deceased, a }>rominent farmer of this tp., \yas
born in Pennsylvania in 1816 ; in 1827 was moved with the family
to Ohio; and in 1840 he came and settled on sec. 25, this tp. ; in
January, 1842, he married Lucinda, daughter of E. H. Bearce ; has
ahvays been a farmer and stock-raiser ; commenced in this county
poor but is now among the wealthier class; has had 13 children, 10
of whom are living and 4 married. Harvey P. was in the lO.'Jd
regt., and wounded at ^Tission Uidge, and soon afterward died;
Alfred is married and resides in Waterford tj). ; Christiaiui W. is
married and lives in Lewistown ; Sarah married and lives north-
west of Lewistown ; Amanda, married, resides in (iuincy ; Frank-
lin, Amy T. and Homer are on the homestead ; Mary L. is attend-
ing school at Quincy ; Hattie is also at (^uincy, and Era H. at
home. Mrs. B. owns 280 acres of land. Mr. B. was a strong Re-
788 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
j)ul)liean. E. II. Bearee, fathor of Mr>. B., settled in Lewistown in
1820; next year lie moved upon a farm of his own and became a
prosperous farmer. He married Sarah Austin, by whom he had 8
children, 7 of whom are living. Mrs. B. is the eldest but one, and
was born in Sangamon Co. Mr. Bearee died in 1856.
J/o.sT.s- Bordner, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 20 ; P. O., Lewistown ;
born in Pennsylvania in 182."); his father, Peter Bordner, a farmer,
w^as also a native of Pennsylvania and married Christiana Lash ;
they had 13 children, 12 of whom grew up. The family moved to
Licking Co., 0.,in an early day, where Mtiscs grew to manhood on a
farm ; in 1840 he emigrated to this tp., and bought 200 acres of land ;
he now owns 720 acres; he has been School Director, Assessor, etc.,
and Trustee of the M. E. Church ; in 1847 he married Maria Bearee,
and they have had 8 children. Mrs. B. died in 1800, and Mr. B.
married Mary E., daughter of Jonathan Ewers, of Virginia. They
have had 0 children.
Peter Bordner, retired farmer and stock-raiser, see. 24; P. O.,
Lewistown ; was born in Bucks Co., Pa., July 4, 1784, and is there-
fore probably the oldest citizen in this county, possibly in the State.
In Pennsylvania he married Christiana Losh, daughter of Stephen
Losh. In his 35th year he settled in Licking Co., O., where he
bought 250 acres of land and improved it ; in 1854 he emigrated in
a covered wagon to this tp., where he purchased 240 acres, which he
afterwards increased to 500 acres; he now owns 340 acres and is
comj)aratively wealthy. Mrs. B. was born in Pennsylvania in 1792,
and is still living. Alfred, the youngest son, resides on the home-
stead, owning considerable property. He married Jane Hasson,
daughter of James Hasson, of this county, and their children are 7,
— Ettie, Willie, Charles, Oscar, James, Adda and Perry. The old
gentleman is a member of the Christian Church and a Democrat.
E. J. Brown, carpenter, was born in Licking Co., ()., in 1818, son
of Samuel and Annie Jacobs, natives of Maine, who emigrated to
this county in 1837 and settled in Lewistown, where he engaged at
his trade, coopering. South ot the city he erected a saw-mill which
was run by horse-power, and later by steam. He took the cholera
in St. Louis and died on the way home to Havana. The subject of
this sketch returned to his native State and again to this city in 1850,
where he has since been eny:ay;ed at his trade. He was married in
1841 to Miss Angeline Fluke, who was born in Perry Co., O., in
1822. Members of the Methodist Church.
Franei'i B. Broirn, farmer; P. O., Lewistown; is son of Johnson
and Phoda Brown, and was born July 7, 1821, and came to this
State in 1844, and settled in this Co. His mother died when he
was only 3 months old. He was married in this county in 1845 to
Nancy Laws. Mrs. S. was born in ^'irginia in 1823. She has
borne 5 children, — Martin AV., Rhoda, George AV., Martha E. and
John W., deceased.
John Brown, deceased, was born in Ohio, April 7, 1820; brought
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 789
to Illinois ill 1820, to this county ; suffered many luirdships of frontier
life; in 1842 he married Delilah Hulfman, who was born in Ohit),
Sept. 10, 1820; they had 7 ehiUh-en, of whom 5 are still livino;, —
Lucy, J. W., Eliza B., Mary and Ephraim. Mr. Browu was a farmer
on sec. 2, owning .'i05 acres of land ; he died in October, 1871). He
was a member of the M. E. Church, and highly respected by all who
knew him.
Sanmel Brown, firmer and stock-raiser, sec. 33; P. O., Lewis-
town; was born in fjieking Co., O., in 1823; his father, Samuel
Brown, was a native of Maine; married Anna Jacobs, by whom he
had 7 children ; afterward he married Miss McLaren, whom he nuir-
ried in Ohio, where he subsequently moved. Samuel, the subject of
this sketch, was a son by the first marriage; and when he was 13
years old (1837) the family moved to Lewistown tp. ; by his first
wife he had Hve children, of whom Harriet and Lavina are all that
are living; Mrs. B. died at I^ewistown 21 years ago, and Mr, B.
married Julia Yarnell, by whom he has had 0 children, — Samuel,
(deceased), Ellis, Hannah X., Julia S., Katie and Charles. Mr, B.
Avas formerly member of the Methodist Church. Rei)ublican. He
ran the first saw-mill, — horse-power, afterward steam, — for 20 vears,
and then sold to Mr. W ilcoxen. He cultivates 170 acres, — in Lew-
istown and Waterfbrd tps.
H'. ir. 5ro/r«, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 36 ; P. O., Lewistown ;
born in Ivicking Co., ()., in 1822 ; his father, Wm. Brown, was born
in Pennsylvania, and married in Ohio, Miss Isabella Wills, bv whom
he had 9 children, the subject of this sketch being the 3d ; at the age
of 20 he married Mrs. Angeline Shaw, wee Bordner, by whom he has
4 children living, — Geo. W., James PL, Sarah M. and Christiana.
Tn 1848 Mr. B. came to Eulton Co., bought 200 acres of land, sold
this in l(S.j() and bought 210 acres in Lewistown tp. ; he now owns
256 acres. Has been Assessor. Democrat. Good Templar.
Henri/ L. Bryant was born in Covington, Mass., March 11, 1817,
the second son of Dr. Ira and Elizabeth (Holbrook) ])rvant, who
emigrated at an early day to Ontario county, X. Y., where he resided
30 vears and died in the 50th vear of his ay-e. Tlie subiect of this
sket_ch was educated at Geneva, (X. Y.) College ; read law at Lex-
ington, Ky., one year; took one course of lectures at Transylvania
University, and came to this State in 1835, settling in Macomb. \u
1837-8 he was elected State's Attorney, at that time for all the ter-
ritory from the mouth of the Illinois river to Peoria county, which
he filled until the expirati(»n of his term two years afterward, at
which time he was not 21 years of age. In 1843 he was married in
this Co. to Miss Elizabeth S. Saunders, daughter of Hira Saunders,
who settled in this Co. in 1820. Pie was an active j)artici|)ant in the
early settlement of the county, and a ])rominent man of the old
Jackson school. His death occurred at Jackson Grove in 1852.
Mr. B. resided at Macomb until 1848, when his health failed and he
moved on his farm 2 miles north of Jackson Grove. In 1852 he
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HISTORY OF rULTON COUNTY. TOo
27, 18.3(), to Bridirot Swchmiov, also a native of Ireland, and who was
born in Nov., ISID. They have one ehild living ont of" a family of
4. Mr. H. is a member of the Catholic Church.
L. E. ('(ill, of tlu' hrin of Wilcoxeu & Call, was l)orn in Lewis-
town, TIL, in 1<S;>(), son of Kastman and Melinda (Wenthouse) Call,
who were amonii; the early pioneers of the county, and the first to
ojien a blaeksmith-shop in Lewistown, where he died in 1S77. The
subject of this sketch worl^cd at printing for 19 years, and was
extensively engaged in the hardware trade until Feb., 1879, when
he disposed of his interest and formed the present copartnership in
collecting and contracting for railroad ties. He was married in
1856 to Miss Elizabeth JJrown, a native of Ohio, who w'as born
near Zanesville in 18.'^(). He is the father of 4 children, 8 of whom
are living, — I>ucinda, Henry and Carrie. The eldest daughter, Ida
E., died April 4, 1877. She was a life member of the Christian
Church, and organist at the time of her death.
E. T. Campbell, physician and surgeon, was born in Indiana Feb.
25, 1835; on farm until 17 years of age; in 1858 commenced i)rac-
ticc in Lewistown; has an extensive ]iatronage ; in 1859, in this
county, he married Matilda 8hawver, who was born in Ohio in
1835 ; they are the parents of 3 children, — Charles, Anna and Susan.
The Doctor has held the office of Justice of the Peace.
Samuel Ca»iy^/>c//, farmer, sec. 3; P. C, Lewistown ; is a son of
Samuel and Phoebe Campbell, natives of Virginia. Mr. C. was
reari'd upon a farm and has through life followed farming. He en-
listed in 1802 in Co. H, 105th 111. Inf., and served 3 years; was in
the siege of Vicksburg, battle of Atlanta and went with Sherman
to the coast. He was married March 12, 1807, to Enuna C.
Hannah, who was born May 18, 1848. They arc the ])arents of 7
children, G of whom are living: Era L., Bertha I., Providence,
Phoebe M., Ralph W., Warren L. and Ray (deceased). Mr. C. was
boi-n July 21, 18.'>0, and came with his parents to this State when
(juite yoiuig, and has made of life a success.
Francisco Cliapiii, farmer, sec. 1 ; P.O., Ijewistown ; was born
in Ohio April 27, 1822, the son of John and Eli/abeth Chaj)in,
natives of Pennsylvania; came to this State in 1838; in 1846 he
nxarried Liu'inda Berry, who was born in Ohio in 1823 ; thev are the
parents of 6 children, only one of whom is living, viz: Francisco.
Mr. C. is a Democrat and has been Constable. Owns 78 acres of
land, worth ^65 per acre.
Thomax Clark, retired firmer, was born in Pennsylvania in 1815,
son of R. Clark, a native of h'cland ; left his native State when 21
years old, and in his 25th year he came to Lee township, this county ;
married Amy Hall, of Ohio; began life poor and when this county
was wild ; first went to farming, then took a tannery in Lewistown,
— 12 years ago; now owns also 200 acres of land ; has 5 children,
— Robert, Amanda, Elizaluth, Mary and Amy J3. Is esj)ecially in-
terested in educational matters. Presbyterian. Republican.
794 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY,
Tliomn.-t B. Clark, fanner and stock-raiser, sec. 7 ; P. O.. Tjcwis-
town. Mr. C was horn in Ohio Dec. 15, 1.S31. He was l)rought
up on a farm, and adopted that calling;, in which he has heen suc-
cessful. He had only limited advantages for an education. He
was broutrht to th(> township in 1844 by his father, who still lives in
the townshii) at tlic ripe old aije of 80. T. B. was married in this
county in 1856, May 28, to Eliza Johnson, who was born in Vir-
ginia in 1885. They are the parents of 6 children, 5 livincr, — Chris-
topher, Carndton, Sarah F., Ida M. and Mary L.
M. L. Clifford was born in Ashtabula county, ()., in 183;>; his
father, Amasa, was a famer; married Lois Fox and has had 10 chil-
dren ; emigrated to Fulton county when I^afayette, the subject of
this sketch, was a lad; here the latter has lived, and now owns 54
acres of land ; in 1857* he married Tsoj>hena, daughter of Wm. R.
Wells, of Baltimore, who settled in this county in 1848, but is not
now living. The children of Mr. and Mrs. M. L. Clifford are Car-
rie and Charles. He haV been School Trustee and Director. Has
110 hives of bees, and is a successful raiser of bees and producer of
honey. Farmer and stock-raiser. Sec. 32. P. O., Lewistown.
Republican. Methodist Episcopal: also his wife.
William H. Cozine, blacksmith and machinist and a partner of
Mr. L. D. Smith. Mr. C. is the son of Garrett and Susan Cozine,
both natives of Kentucky. He was born in Indiana, Jan. 4, 1841 ;
was reared uj)on a farm until he was 18 years of age, when he learned
the blacksmith trade, which occupation he has continued to follow
ever since ; came to Lewistown in 1862; was married in this city
(luring that year to Annie H Hurlburt, who has borne him 8 chil-
dren, 2 of whom are living, — Charley and ^^'illard. Henry is de-
ceased. ^Irs. C. was born in Lewistown in 1844. Mr. C. is a
member of the M. E. Church.
A. ir. Davis, deceased, was born in Lewis Co., Ky., Dec. 10,
182(1; his father, Solomon Davis, a farmer, was a nativ(M)f Kentucky,
who with his family emigrated to Lewistown tj). in 1844, and resided
here until his death. May 7, 1875; he was a nuMuberof the Christian
Church and a Democrat. Dec. 25, 1850, Alfred, married Miss Jan-
nette Cleary, daughter of Richard C, of Ky., who died in Iowa.
Children — \\\\\. H., managing the homestead farm; Mary V., mar-
ried and resides in this tp. ; Annie E., Emma, Edgar, George, Oliver,
John and Jasper.
James Donaldsf»i, farmer, etc., sec. 88 ; P. O., Lewistown ; was
born in Scotland July 8, 1828; followed manufacturing in a large
dyeing and printing establishment ; received a good business edu-
cation ; married Catharine Cathcart, and had 5 children, only Agnes
now living, who married Wm. Gibson and resides in New York.
In 1848 he came to America, settling in Essex Co., New Jersey, and
was eini)loyed in Essex Point works 16 years. Here his wife died,
and he married Mis.-. Jessie, daughter of Charles Shaw, of Scotland.
They have had 0 children, 5 now living, — JanncttcB., Catharine C,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 795
^Marion S., James and John, all rcsiclinri^ in this tp. Settled in
Fulton Co. 8 years ago. Have 40 acres. Presbyterians.
Fi'dnldin Dunn, farmer, sec. 3U; P. O., Lewistown ; born in In-
diana in 1S,"}(), eldest son now living of Wm. and Melinda Dunn;
raised at farming; emigrated to this tp. 25 years ago, and first
worked as a farm hand ; now owns GO acres of good land and is
doing well. He married Mary Harkley, daughter of Josej)h Jiarkley.
Has had 3 children ; only (tne now living. Mr. D. is a Democrat.
Samuel Dura/l, farmer, sec. 33; was born in Chester Co., Pa., in
1816. His father, John D., was also born in Pa., where he ibllowed
farming; he married, in Maryland, ^Margaret Beatty of that State,
by whom he had 5 children, 4 now living, — (ieorge, Amanda, De-
borah and Samuel; moved to Ohio in the fall of 1830, followed
fiirming, and in 1839 moved to I^ewistown. Samuel had received a
good education; in 1850 he bought Mr. Brown's saw-mill at Lewis-
town, and for 14years with Brown t^"^ W'orley did a good business; in
1847-8 he was a grocer; but for a number of years has followed
farming; owns 80 acres here; his first wife was Martha Mann,
second Marv Brown, and third Louisa Cam])boll ; had .'> children by
his first wife and 6 by his third; his second wife lived but 4 weeks
after marriage. Children : David, Edward, James, Irene, Luta, etc.
P. O., Lewistown.
Joi^eph DiichcH is the son of James and Eleanor (Harriet) Dyckes.
His father came from England when a boy, and his m<tther was a
native of ^Laryland. Joseph was born in Baltimore Jan. 4, 1813.
His father died in Pennsylvania at the age of 52 years and his
mother in Cleveland, O., in 1875. Joseph was raised in Pennsylva-
nia ; came to Fulton Co. in 1837, settled at Bernadotte ; worked at
the carpenter trade until 1840, when he was elected Sheritl", and then
moved to Lewistown. Served three terms as Sheritl' and two as
County Clerk and served in other offices. He was married in 1840
to Lucinda Andrews, who bore him 7 children, 5 living. Mr. D.
has always been an active j)olitician and a Democrat.
ir. ScoU jK'f/w;«r(/.s', attorney at law, was Ixu'u in Ohio in 1851.
His parents were Samuel and Sarah J. (Dodds) Edwards, natives of
Ohio, who came to this State in 1854, and settled in this county,
where he still resides. His mother di(>d in 1877. The subj(^ct of
this sketch began his studies at Hedding College, Knox Co., in
1870, and commenced the study of law at (^uincy, and in 187() en-
tered the office of Hon. Thos. A. Boyd, with whom he is still con-
nected in his j)rofessional calling. He was married Dec. 24, 1878,
to Miss Cora L Whitaker, a graduate of St. Mary's school in the
class of 1875, and d;iughter <»f (Jeorge Wliitaker, of this county.
Charles C. Ehrcnhari, butcher and proprietor of an extensive
rendering establishment in Lewistown, was born in Germany in
1850, came with parents to America in January, 18(57, aiid first set-
tled at (ialesburg, 111. ; at Sheridan, Iowa, he married Eliza Brook-
mire, daughter of Wm. B., of Germany. Lilly is their only child,
They came to Lewistown two years ago and are doing well.
706 nisTonv of itlton (-ot'xty.
Martin Eirhclherger, merchant, was born in Lancaster Co., Pa.,
Feb. 1, 181.'). Mis parents were George and Elizabeth (Shrciner)
Eichelberger. The subject of this sketch came to this county in the
sj)riiiir of 1837, settling in Lcwistown in the fall of the same
year, lie o})ene(l the first saddlery and harness >li(>j) in the city,
which he followed five years, when he engaged in the mercantile
l)usiness, which he has since followed. In 1839 he was appointed
Postmaster and served for 13i years, being also in other ways
prominently identified with the interests of the county. Aug. 29,
1839, he was married to Isabella G. Johnson, a native of Pennsyl-
vania, by whom he has 4 children, — Irene, Julia A., Edine and
Agnes.
B. M. Eirnn, farmer, etc., on sec. 19, was born in Newtown,
Frederick Co., Va., in 1819; his father, Israel Ewan, a wagon-
maker, was a native of Virginia, who married ]Marv Anderson, also
a native of Va. R. M. learned the same trade, and has carried on
a shop for a number of years. In Virginia he married Caroline
M. Lewis, and they have had 8 children, — Lewis E., AVm. I., Ed-
mond v., James T., Martha C, Chas. M., Geo. H. and ^larv A".
In the spring of 1857 he came to this tp. and bought a piece of land,
which he has improved ; he now owns 120 acres ; has been Assessor.
Methochst until recently. Democrat: was Whig. P.O., Lewis-
town.
John Fifzhenri/, farmer and stock-dealer, .see. 23, owning 260 acres
of land; born in Ireland Nov. 11, 1823 ; came to America in 1849 ;
clerked in store 4 years, but most of his life has followed farming
and handled stock ; commenced in America with but 87-3, but is
now worth at least 8o( ),()(»•>. His first wife was Francis Smith, born
in Tennessee in 1818; they were married July 7, 18o0, and their 6
children were John E., Anna AL, Ada C., A\'illiam C., Frances A.
and James (dec). His second wife was I'hoebe Easley, l)orn May
23, 183(j, in this State; of their 3 children 2 arc living, — Charles
and Phoebe N. P. O., I^ewistown.
Joseph Foofe, lumber merchant, of the firm of Phelps tt Co., was
born in New Boston, near Horse-shoe Bend, O., in 1849, and son of
Jarcd B. Foote, a native of Mass., who emigrated to the West
and <licd in Iowa in IS.")]. She subject of this sketch was married
in 1.S7G to Eliza, daughter of Myron Phelps (»f this city, with whom
he was associated until the fi>rmation of the existing firm in 187<).
(t. ir. 7'0/v/, farmer, sec. 10 ; P. ()., Lcwistown. To Amos and
Margaret Ford, natives of Virginia, ami while they were residents
of Pennsylvania a son was given to them upon the 14th of Dec,
18,31, who is the subject of this sketch. (J. W. came to this State
in 18.")9, and settled in this county. He was married in the Buck-
eye State in 18")7t<i Elizabeth Westman, who was born in Pennsyl-
vania in 1833. Ten children have been l)orn to them, 3 of whom
have been taken away by death, all in their infancy. Those living
are, Ettie, Hattie, Addie C, Lillie, Arthur, Ralph and Frank D.
t
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 797
Mr. F. had but little means to beo;in with, but by economv and in-
dnstrv has afcumiihited a fjood jiroperty.
11^ ir. Fo-r, jcwck'r, was born in Huntintjdon Co., N. J., in 1835;
moved to the West in 1849 and engaged at his ])rofession in Fair-
view, Burlington, Towa, and Fairfield, same State, from which place
in 1858 he wont to the Rooky Mountains, pro'^peeting ; he returned
to his Eastern home the same year, thence to Lewistown, where he
commenced business in J 860. In 1862 he enlisted in lO.'JdI. V. I.,
Co. H, as private, was promoted to Sergeant, Orderly and 1st Lieut.,
and served 3 years ; participated in battles of Vicksburg, Mission
Ridsre, Atlanta and with Sherman on his march to tlie sea. In 1865
he married Lorena, daughter of John Deems, and they have one
child, Frank.
Joseph Gci/er was born in Germany, Nov. 12, 1814; learned the
tailor's trade; brought to America when very young; 1830 he
settled in this county; he is now a farmer on sec. 6, owning 160
acres of land ; he was married in this county in 1834, to Bathsiieba
Bierd, who was born in Connecticut, Aug. 9, 1806; they have had
8 children, 2 of whom are now living, — Grace J. and Mary E. Mr.
Geyer is a member of tlie Missionary Baptist Church.
John A. Graij, attorney at law; was born in Morgan Co., ()., in
1842. His parents were Joseph K. and Margaret Gray, who came
to this county in 1850 and settled in Putman tp., where he engaged
at his trade, blacksiuithing. He sul)sequently moved to Marshall
Co., where he still resides. The subject of this sketch enlisted in
May, 1861, as Corporal in the 17th I. V. I., Co. H; was wounded
at Fort Holden, Ky., confined in the hospital some time, and trans-
ferred to the 11th 111. Cav., Co. M, in rank of 2d Sergeant ; was pro-
moted to Sergeant, 2d Tjieutenant, 1st Tiicutcnant and Captain,
serving until the close of the war. Participated in all the battles in
which tlie regiment was engaged. In 1867 he commenced the study
of law with Col. Ingersoll at Peoria, and two years afterwards was
admitted to th(» liar, and in 1870 began pi'actice at Cuba, 111. He
moved to Lewistown in 1872 and formed a co-partnershij) with
Judge Shope, and they are now among the ablest ])ractitioners in
Central Illinois. Mr. G. represented this county in the Legislature
in 1873-4, served on the Board of Supervisors in Putman tp. and
Lewistown'. He was married in '(i3to Miss lilanche Berry, a native
of this countv. Two children are the fruits of this marriaire, —
Blanche and Lucien.
Frank B. Grer/ory, attorney at law; was born in Farmington, 111.,
in 1853. Is eldest son of Dr. John and Margaret (Wilson) Gregory,
the former of w'hom was born in Otsego Co., N. Y., in 1822, and
emigrated to the West in 1841, settling in Farmington, where he died
in 1879. Mrs. G. was a native of Conn., and died in 1861. The
subject of this sketch was educated at Ann Arbor, Mich., and be-
gan his studies with Judge Shope of this city in 1876, Two years
afterward he was admitted to the Bar and began practice in this city.
47
798 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
He was married May 8th, 1879, to Miss Emma H., daughter uf
Riley Bristol, of Farmington. Mr. G. enjoys a lucrative practice
and a host of' friends throughout the county.
B. E. Grijfif/t, wiXiTon manufacturer, was horn in Peru, Peoria Co.,
in 1852, son of Michael and Margaret McLaren, natives of Va.,
where his father died in 1853. Came to this county in 1854 with
his mother, who died in 1865. Mr. G. was married in 1876 to ^liss
Calista Guernsey, daughter of Wilder and Margaret (Townsend)
Guernsey, who settled in this county in 1844, where he died in
1865. Her mother is still living, in the 69tli year of her age. Mrs.
G. opened her present place of business in 1877, and carries a fine
stock of millinery and fancy goods. Mr. G. began business in 1872,
and each is conducting a fair and pros])erous trade.
Lloyd Hum, deceased, was a native of Baltimore, born in April,
1799; moved to Pennsylvania, where in 1822 he married Susannah
Ish, daughter of Christian Ish, who was born near Harper's Ferry,
Va., in 1802; went to Holmes Co., O., then to Coshocton Co., O. ;
in 1837 moved to Lewistown tp., this county, and settled on 80
acres. He was a member of the M. E, Church, and died in 1864.
Children : Wm. G., Levi, John, Perry, Emerson, Jonathan and
Robert W. The two last mentioned were soldiers in the late war.
Wm. C. Hdrrison was born in Kentucky May 24, 1830, son of
James and Sarah H., natives of Virginia ; education limited; settled
in this tp. in 1850; Oct. 12, 1854, he married Eliza Waldron, who
was born Sept. 18, 1836, and they had 3 children, — Temperance,
Sarah E. and Eliza ; the last two have died. Mrs. H. also died, and
Mr. H. in 1863 married Matilda Morgan, who was born in the
Prairie State May 16, 1840. Mr. Harrison is a farmer on sec. 11,
owning 120 acres of land, and is in good circumstances. Democrat.
John B. Henry was born in Lewistown, 111., in 1853. His parents
were Bryan and Anna (Lally) Henry, wIk^ emigrated to this State in
1850 anil settled in this city. The subject of this sketch first en-
gaged in printing, which he followed until called to his present posi-
tion in the office of County Clerk in 1878. The same year he mar-
ried Miss Clara AValker, daughter of S. P. "Walker. She was born
in this county in 1857.
John Hilick, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 28; P. O., Lewistown;
was born in Clermont Co., O., in 1819; his father, Abraham, was
born in New Jersey, a farmer, and one of the first settlers of Ohio,
where he married Ann Gest, of Virginia, and had 9 children, 7 of
whom are living. The siU)ject of this sketch, the 3d child, emi-
grated to Knox Co., 111., at the age of 21, and in 1842 he came to
Fulton Co.; in 1849 he married Miss Sarah A. Stewart, daughter of
Cornelius Stewart, by whom he has had 4 children : Cornelius, who
died in 1872; Mary A., who resides on the homestead; Laura L.,
who married Thos. More, of this tp. ; John W., drowned in Spoon
river. Mr. H. owns 90 acres of land «ind is out of debt. Episco-
pal Methodists. Deniocrat,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 799
Matthias Hulick, farmer, sec, 29 ; was born in New Jersey in 1810.
His father, John Hulick, was also a native ofXew Jersey, a farmer,
who married Anna, dauohter of John Moiuit, by whom he hatl 8
children, 4 boys and 4 girls, Matthias being the 3d child. The lat-
ter learned the tailor's trade in New York city, emigrated to Ohio,
where he married Ann, daughter of John Redebaugh, of Pennsyl-
vania, an early settler of Ohio, where Mrs. H. was born. In Ohio
Mr. H. learned the cooper's trade ; in 1838 he settled on his present
farm of 80 acres — original tract 40 acres ; lived in a log cabin with
all the roughness and hardships characteristic of the times. Mr.
H.'s flither was a Ca])tain in the Revolutionary war. Is a Demo-
crat, and a memi)er of the Methodist Church, of which Church his
wife is also a member.
Alex. Hull, physician, Lewistown ; was born in Licking county,
Ohio, Nov. 18, 1823, son of Philip and Sarah INIcCracken, natives
of Ohio; on a farm until 20 years of age; education limited; his
parents moved with him to this State, arriving in this township Dec.
10,1838; commenced the study of medicine under Dr. Al)rahani
Hull, of Marietta, and graduated at Rush Medical College, Chicago,
in 1850, and began jiractice at Cuba, continuing there until 1860,
when he was elected Clerk of the Circuit Court; in 1864 he was re-
elected. He is a Democrat. His parents are both living, one mile
from Lewistown; his father was born in 1795 and his mother in
1801.
Philip Hull, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 21; P. O., Lewistown;
was born in Virginia in 1795; his father, John Hull, also a native
of that State, married Christina Essex, by whom he had 14 children,
12 of whom grew up. AVhen Philiji was a lad the family emigrated
from the Monouirahela river to Kentuckv : when a vouny; man he
went to Ohio, where he married Sarah McCracken, daughter of
Alex. McC, of Ireland,'^vho came to Pennsylvania during the Rev-
olutionary war and fought for American independence, and was
taken prisoner by liord Cornwallis. In 1838 Mr. Philip Hull settled
in Cass townshij), and 13 years ago he bought 168 acres of land in
Lewistown township, whereon he resides. He was in the war of
1812, and now draws a pension. He is a member of the M. E.
Church.
I. M. Hummel, Vice-President of the Narrow-Gauge R. R. Co.,
was born Feb. 8, 1837, in Fult(tn county, 111. ; lived on a farm until
23 years of age ; farmed in the summer and taught school in the
winter; in 1862 he entered into partnership with J. C Willcoxen ;
built a store house and depot in Bryant ; was the first agent at
Bryant for C, B. & Q. R. R. Co. ; was appointed first Postmaster
at Bryant ; kept a general store ; was extensively engaged in the
coal trade; in 1864 sold out and went overland to California and
Idaho; in 1866 formed a partnership with A. J. Willcoxen ; had a
general store ; in 1868 sold out and went to Kansas and Indian Ter-
ritory; in 1869 again went to California by rail; in 1871 moved to
800 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Lewistown ; went into the lumber business with J. C. Willeoxen and
continued with him until 1H7(); was one of four who built the opera
house in Lewistown, known as the Beadles' Bl-ifk ; in 1877 went
into partnership with W. R. Hasson in the hardware business; con-
tinued in this over a year; a<rain went into the lumber business and
continued in this until the spring of 1<S79, when he sold out and
was elected Vice President of the Fulton N. G. R. R. Co. Mr.
Hummel's father, William, was a native of Ohio, and emigrated to
Fulton county in 1830; his mother's maiden name was Nancy M.
Willeoxen, a native of North Carolina, who also came to Fulton
county in 1830. May 27, 1873, he married Viola A. Smith, who
was born in Fulton county Dec. 3, 184.S, and they have one child,
Jessie Lee, born Oct. 2, 1876. The portraits of Mr. Hummel, his
wife, and little Jessie are given in this volume.
George Humphrey, farmer, etc., Lewistown, was born in Jefferson
Co., O,, in 1814, received a superior education, and emigrated to this
county about 1833, stopping in Harris tp. and working as a farm
hand. Between that and Lewistown it was a wilderness, there being
but one house on the way. In Ipava, in 1841, he married Virginia
A. Lewis, whose father was from Rockingham Co., Va., and they
had 7 children. ^L•s. H. died in January, 1876, and in 1877 Mr.
H. married Alice M. Martin, of New Haven, Ct. In 1847 he
moved to Lewistown, and in 1848 he bought a large tract of land;
in 18o2 he was elected County Treasurer, and in 1854 was re-elected ;
before and after this period he was Deputy County Clerk and Re-
corder and Justice of the Peace. He now owns 240 acres of land ;
is a member of the Bryant Lodge I. O. O. F. His father, John
Humphrey, was born in ^lercersburg, Pa., was a farmer, and for 7 years
Avas Captain in the Revolutionary war under Washington. He died
in Ohio in the 90th year of his age. His wife was Elizabeth, nee
McKee, born in Ireland, and died while George was an infant.
G. W. Johnxon, physician and surgeon, was born in New York
June 11, 1833, son of Wm. and Elizabeth Johnson; was first a
molder for 12 years; then clerked in a clothing store in New York
citv for 3 vears ; then read medicine and y;raduatcd at a medical col-
lege; came to Illinois in 1800; in 1867 he married Ellen King,
and they are the parents of 3 children, — Faitha, Sarah E. and Joseph.
The Doctor has had great success and an extensive practice. In
politics he is a Democrat.
/. .7. JohnMoii, merchant, of the firm of Eichelberger <t Son, was
born in Lancaster Co., Pa., in 1837. His parents were James and
Julia A. (Graham) Johnson, who came to the West in 1837 and set-
tled in Lewistown, where his lather resided until his death in 1852.
The subject of this sketch enlisted in 1861 in the 36th I. V. I., Co,
A, was promoted to Sergeant, Lieutenant and Major; from which
rank he was mustered out at the close of the war ; he jiarticipated
in all the liattles in which that regiment was engaged. At the close
^)f the war he was employed in erecting a National Cemetery af
■i]'r
■I ^_
<J.
l2^iUi/^:^/2^'
j^^yUZ-^^^'/^i^
Jji
Z^/^.
LEWISTOWN
OF THE
UNIVERSITy Of ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 803
Richmond, Va., for which 'he received as a token for such service a
massive gold watch and chain. Until recently he has been in the
Government employ and secret service at St. Louis and Chicago.
Was elected Mayor of Lewistown in the spring of 1879, and has
been engaged in the present business for some years. Was married
Jan. 9, 1863, to Miss Amelia Akin, a native of Rutland Co., Vt.,
where she was born in 1841. The family are early settlers of the
county.
John Johnson, fruit dealer, is a son of Samuel and Sarah Johnson,
and was born in Bucks Co., Pa., Jan. 22, 1822. He was reared upon
a farm, learned the potter's trade, which he followed at intervals until
1860, since which time he has been agent for the McCune nursery
of Pleasant tp. His father is still living at the ripe old age of 80.
Mr. J. was married in Penn. in 1853 to Mary Randall, a native of
that State, and was born in 1824. A family of 4 children has been
given them, — Charles E., Sarah, Mary and William, deceased.
George S. King, banker, was born in Maryland Oct. 28, 1809,
son of John and Ellen King, natives of the same State ; when he
was 4 years of age the family moved to Pennsylvania ; afterward
they came to Lewistown, where Mr. King followed the iron trade
several years ; then for some years he was in the real-estate business
in Chicago, and then in 1866 he started a private bank in Lewis-
town, which in 1871 he changed into a national bank, and is now
doing a good business. Mr. King married in Pennsylvania, in
1834, Eliza McDowell, a native of that State, born in 1812. They
are the parents of 12 children, 9 of whom are living. Mr. King
w-as once a member of the Pennsylvania Legislature. Odd Fellow.
Presbyterian.
John S. Lee, farmer, sec. 12, was born in Lewis Co., Ky., Nov.
12, 1823; came to Illinois in 1846 ; married in 1850 Miss Emily J.
Walker, who was also born in Lewis Co., Ky., in 1823; they are
the parents of 3 children, one of whom is living, — William F.
Mr. Lee has 290 acres of excellent land. His parents were Bar-
ton and Ruth Lee, natives of Maryland. Democrat. P. O., Lew-
istown.
James Tjegg, farmer, sec. 5 ; P.O., Lewistow^n. Mr. L. is the
son of Willis and Susanna Legg, both natives of the Old Domin-
ion. He was born in that State Aug. 18, 1825. He was reared
upon a farm, and except short intervals spent at the mason trade,
he has followed farming since. He emigrated to Illinois in 1849.
In Ohio he was married to Mary JNliner Jan. 28, 1848. She was
born in that State in 1829. To them has been given a family of 13
children, of whom Sarah E., Elyddi A., Lucy, William, Lima,
Charles and Rachel are living. Those deceased are May, Cora,
Nancy, George, Harriet and Maria. Mr. L. has held the office of
School Director for 19 years.
George Livingston, deceased, a native of Ohio, married Sarah
Simpson, of that State, in 1848; the next year he settled in this tp.
804 HISTORY OF FUI^TOX COUNTY.
on 50 acres of laud, and died in Sept., 1879. He had 11 children,
of whom 10 are living. William was killed at the battle of Atlan-
ta; Amanda, the eldest of the children, married B. Bortly and re-
sides in Ticwistown ; Geo. married Eliza Me(ieehee, and resides at
the old home; one daughter married Willis Harus and resides in
Lewistown ; Isaac married Mary A. Ashby, daughter of AVm. Ash-
by, and has had 7 children; he enlisted in the 103d 111. Inf., fought
at Dalton, Mission Ridge, etc. At the latter he was wounded in
the leg and arm ; Jesse also enlisted in the same company, and was
wounded in the arm; has since married Martha Dennis; John, an-
other soldier in the same company, has married Roxie Hawick;
Sarah married Josiah Bots, of Liverj)ool tp. ; Mary married Jona-
than Harns ; Margaret is the wife of \Vm. Barker, of Liverpool tp. ;
Joseph, who married Mary Hunt, resides also in Liverpool tp. The
estate consists of 110 acres; George and Joseph own 40 each.
Thomas Mai/, deceased, was born Oct. 22, 1818, in W. Va. ; at
25 he emigrated to this tp. ; married Elizabeth, daughter of Ira
Scovell ; she was born in Havana; at the time of marriage he own-
ed 40 acres of land ; the estate is now 1(35 acres; he was a member
of the M. E. Church from his IGth year, and died in 1873. At one
time was Road Commissioner. He had 7 children: 6 are living:
]Mary S., who married Hadley Geyer and resides in Lewistown :
Leva, who mari'ied (tco. Rigdon and resides in Yates City ; Emma,
who married John McDermott, and resides also in Yates City ;
Thomas A., who married Luella Wheeler and resides in this county;
James, who resides on the farm ; and Sarah A., unmarried and at
home.
(It'on/c Mayer, eonductorof meat market, was born in Germany in
1840, emigrated to America in 1858 and settled in Alleghany Co.,
Pa., where he enlisted in Co. E, 74th P. V. I., and served 3 years;
partici|)atcd in battles of Btdl Run, Gettysburg, Eredricksbnrg.
Chancellorvllle, Sulphur Springs and Cross Keys. Was married in
1865 to Miss Maggie Strahlcn, a native of Germany ; began busi-
ness in the city in 1871 and for the past year has conducted two
market.x, controlling the bulk of business in this line. George,
John, Matthew, Ered. and Jacob are their living children.
Wilt. M<-(o)iih, retired merchant, was born in Mercer Co., Pa., in
1807; Robert MeComb, his father, a native of Delaware, married
Susan Peters, and had a fiimily of children. William, the young-
est but one of these, was reared in Pennsylvania, received a liberal
education at Washington College, taught school 4 years; in 1837
married Susan Peters in Va. ; had 5 children, 2 now living: Amelia,
who married Rev. Stejihen PIkIjjs, and Jennie, who married Lyman
Whittier. In 1837 ^Ir. and Mrs. M. emigrated to Lewistown,
where he clerked for Wm. Proctor; in 1843 he was Assessor; re-
elected in 1S47 ; elected Circuit Clerk in 1848, which office he held
for 4 years; from 1853 to 1860 he was a merchant, partner of Rob-
ert Campbell; in 1863 was enrolling officer; in 1870 took the
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 805
census. INIr. M. is a Presbyterian and a Republican. His two
elder brotiiers were in the war of 1812.
0. 31. McCumber, farmer; P. O., Lewistown. The parents of our
subject were Charley and Huldah McCumber, natives of Kentucky.
He was born in this State in 1.S40. In 1861 he enlisted in Co. A,
55th 111. Inf., and served 17 mo)iths ; was in the battles of Shiloh,
Corinth, etc. In 1862 he was married. His wife, Susanna Mc-
Cumber, was born in Indiana in 1847, To them were born a
family of 4 children, — Harry H., Charles H., Chester L. and
Arthur. Mr. McC. came with his parents to the State in 1839, and
belongs to the M. E. Church.
Jno. R. MeI)oice/l, j\f. /)., was born in Fulton Co., 111., in 1842,
son of Reuben R. and Ruth M. (Reynolds) McDowell, natives of
Pa. His father visited the West in 18;>8, selecting Lewistown for
a home, and returned with his family the following year ; was one
of the oldest resident ])hysicians of the city, a personal friend of
Stephen A. Douglas, a zealous advocate of the war, and warm sup-
j)orter of the Republican ])arty. He represented this countv in the
Legislature during the Mexican war from 1845 to '48. His death
occurred in this city in 1877. The subject of this sketch began
studies with his father, and entered upon two courses of lectures at
Rush Medical College, Chicago, and was graduated at that institu-
tion in 1866, associating himself in ])raclice with his father, and
he has since followed his profession. In 1862 he was ap])ointed
hospital steward in the army, serving until the close of the war.
He was married in 1866 to Miss Ellen Burgett, daughter a£ Hiram
Burgett, of this city, a native of Vt., by whom he has 2 chddren, —
Charles A. and (ieorge A.
H. B. McFall, blacksmith and })low-maker, settled in Lewistown
in 1865; he was born in Pennsylvania in 1826; came to Peoria in
184(), where he pursued his calling, and married Mary Ann Wiltv.
They iuive five children living, — Charles W., Clarence E., Law-
rence B., Ira PI and Herman H. Mr. McFall is a Freemason and
a Republican.
Geo. \V. McGrew, sec. 29; was born near Wheeling, W. Va., in
1850, His fatiier (George) was born in Jefferson county, ()., where
he married Rachel Church and had 7 children, — CJeorge, Frank,
Reson, James Finley, Philena, Margaret and Allie. Philena and
Margaret are married. The fiimily emigrated to Fulton county,
1 11., and settled on the 55 acres now owned by George, jr., who grew
to manhood here, obtaining a liberal education. He married a
native of Jefferson county, O. He is a farmer and stock-raiser. P.
O., Lewistown.
Jesse Mead, cabinet-maker and undertaker, is a native of Flngland
and was born Dec. 27^, 1816; came to America in 18:53, and first
settled in New Jersey, where he remained until 1841, when he came
to Fulton county, where he has since resided. He was united in
marriage with Emily Bloomfield, a native of the Buckeye State, who
806 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
was born iu 1831. To them 6 children were born, of wlioni 5 are
living, — Mary J., Carrie, Willie, Alice and Nellie. One infant
deceased.
Jamcfi Morgan, farmer, sec. 3; P. O., Lewistown. Mr. M. is the
son of Daniel and Sarah M., and was born in \'irginia March 3,
1810. He was reared upon a farm and has followed that occupation
throughout life. He came to this county in 1831, and in 18o0 went
to California where he remained 9 months. He has been twice
married, — the first time to Betsy Humble in 1833. She was born
in Ohio in 1811, and died in 1843. There M'ere born to them ()
children, 4 living, — Sarah, wife of Aaron Sawyer, of Kansas ; Mary,
wife of Henry Young; Matilda, and Wm. H. Mr. M. was mar-
ried to Mary Murj)hy in 1844. She was born in Pennsvlvania in
1809. They have 4 children ; Rachel, Melinda and Lucinda, twins,
and David. ]Mr. M. was a color-bearer in the militia in pioneer
times. His grandfather was a soldier iu the Revolutionarv war, his
father in the war of 1812 and he in the Black Hawk war, and is one
of the very few veterans now living who fought that old chief
A. P. Afunson, dealer in crockery and glassware, Lewistown, was
born in New Haven, Conn., in 1843; enlisted in 18G2 as Orderly
Sergeant in (\). A, 27th Conn. V. I. (New Haven Grays) ; was
promoted 2d Lieut, and served 9 months; participated in the battles
of Fredricksburg, Gettysburg, and Chancellorville, where he was
taken prisoner, and confined in Libby Prison at Richmond 3
months; was exchanged and (confined in Annapolis hospital, from
etiects of prison life, some months. At the close of the war he ac-
cepted a position in the Treasury Dej)artment at A\'ashington, and
four years afterward came to this county and engaged in mercantile
business in this city, and in 1876 opened his present place of
business, where he is conducting a pros]ierous trade. Was married
in 1866 to Miss Harriet Gore, a native of N. H.
Walter Painter, farmer, sec. 17, was born in Connecticut March
16, 1815; now owns 160 acres; has followed farming through life;
educatiou fair; came to this county in 1838; in 1S41 was married to
Ellen Ewings, who was born in Virginia in 1814; they ar(> the
parents of 6 children, — Thomas, Mary J., Steuben, Hiram, Nathan
and Margaret. Mr. Painter's father was in the Revolutionary war
and taken prisoner by Cornwallis. Methodist. Rej)ul)lican.
Win. P((r/:i)i-'<()u, farmer and stock-raiser; P. ()., J^ewistown ; was
born in Jiancashirc, Kng., March 23, 1826, son of John P., a far-
mer, who married Susanna Mellor and whose children were 13 in
number. Wm., the youngest, who grew to manhood in England,
married Jane (ice, of Yorkshire, and landed at New York city
April 4, 1<S55; settled '\u Bernadotte tp., finally in Lewistown tp.
Free-thinker, (ireenbacker. Close reasonor.
John H. Peirnol, M. I)., deceased, was born in Holmes Co., O.,
in 1821 ; )?on of Peter and Sarah (ITains) Peirsol, who moved to
this county in 1836 and settled in Fairview, and were among the
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 807
early pioneers who have with many others gone to their h^ng liome.
The subjeet of this sketeh eoninieneecl the study of ni^edieine under
the tuition of Dr. Geddes, at Fairview, where he afterward practiced
for some years. In 1848 he was married at Knoxville to Miss
Eraser, dauuhter of Wm. J. Fraser, of that citv. In 185o he was
7 0 . •
elected to the office of County Clerk, and served in that capacity 8
years. In 1869 was elected Probate Judge, and re-elected in 1873
without opposition, his labors in that office being simply marvelous.
He was the father of 8 children, (3 of whom lie side by side in the
cemetery at Fairview. Anna, wife of II. F. ITffi)rd, and Maggie G.
are the liviuij: chiklreu. He was an honored member of the Masonic
fraternity. His death occurred Feb, 17, 1876. We give the Doc-
tor's portrait in this work.
A. Peterson was born in New Jersey, and came to this county in
1859; married Jane Weston in 1873; they have Flora and Katie
as their children ; he was Town Clerk in Waterford tp. Mrs. P.'s
father, Samuel Weston, was a native of England, where he married
Mary Lathberry and had 9 children : Thomas, Eliza, Isidora, Han-
nah, Jane, Caroline, Sarah and William, and one deceased. This
family emigrated to this tp. about 30 years ago and accumulated
some property. The subject of this biography is a renter on sec.
34, and his P. O. is Lewistown.
Charles Phelps, only son of Hon. Wm. Phelps, of Lewistown,
was born in this tp, ; married Louisa Pickering, and has a family of
children ; during the war he was enrolling officer. Having resided
here all his life, Mr. Phelps has witnessed many changes in the de-
velopment of the place.
Heurij Phelps, merchant, Lewistown, son of Myron and Adaline
(Rice) Phel[)s. Myron was born in Ontario Co., N. Y,, March 17,
1803. His wife died March 24, 1831. His second marriage was
with Miss Mary Proctor, of Rowley, Mass., April 4, 1855. He
emigrated to the West in 1824 with his father's family, settling on
a piece of land near Springlield, which he entered. A small stock
of goods was opened in the neighborhood by some New York men,
which was })urchased l)y his father and carried by teams to St.
Louis, thenc(! on keel-boats to the nearest river point to Lewistown,
where they were oj)ened for sale in a small room. There were more
Indians than whites in the country at that time, and this the only store
in the county. He dealt largely in furs, traveling on ponies over
large portions of Illinois, Iowa, and the valley of the Cedar. He
was a great friend to the Indians, and many an old battle-scarred
chief found a welcome to his cabin home. Of this ])ioneer we could
not say too much. His business was characterized by strict prin-
ciple, and at the opening of his Christian life he decided that one-
tenth of his income should be given to the Lord, and that, should
he ever become worth a certain sum, he would therealter give all
he should make to the Lord. He reached that amount 20 years
prior to his death, and gave it all to the cause of Christianity. The
808 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Presbyterian Church stands as a monument, in part, of his liberal-
ity. He died at his home in this city Aug. 15, 1878. The subject
of this sketch was born in Lewistcnvn in 1837; was married at
Rowley, Mass., in 18G1, to Miss Anna J^. Proct(»r, a native of Essex
Cc, Mass., by whom he has 2 children, — Henry W. and Frederick.
Mr, P. succeeded his father in business, and his is the oldest busi-
ness house in the county. He is President of the Town Council
and School Director, and a jiromincnt member of the Preslivtcrian
Church ; also a zealous temperance worker.
William Fhrlps was born in New York Nov. 1, 1809, son of
Stephen and Lois Phelps; came to this State in 1820, settling in
Sangamon county; to this county in 1827. Mr. Phel])S followed
trading with tlie Indians out AVest for 20 years, dealing mostiv with
the Pottawatomies and Delawarcs. Indians clear to the Rockv
Mountains have a favorable knowledge of '" Capt. Phelps." (He
was once Captain of a steamboat.) Keturning to this countv in
1846, he continued trading in the mercantile business for 12
years, and with such success that he finally accumulated a })ropertv
of 2,000 acres of fine farm land, besides 4 lots in town with fine
dwellings; luit he has been benevolent. His first marriage was
March 2, 18o0, to Caroline Kelsey, who was born in New York in
1812, and died in 1862. Their o living children are : Emilv, wife
of Col. Dilworth ; Charles S. and Julietta T. May 21, 1874, Mr.
Phelps married Tillie M. Guernsey, who was born in New York
Sept. 7, 1839; their one child is deceased. Mr. Phelps has been
Justice of the Peace and Su])crvisor, and is a Freemason. His
father was born in Vermont and his mother in New York. We
give the portraits of Capt. Phelps and his wife in this work.
Robert Prichard, farmer and stock-raiser, owning 315 acres of val-
uable land, is the son of Jordon and Artemisia Prichard, natives of
Pennsylvania, and he was born in Ohio March 11, 1831; familv
came to Fulton county in early day, settling in Liverpool township,
where his parents died of cholera in 1849; Nov. 18, 1854, he mar-
ried Rebecca Steel, who was born March 10, 1840, in White countv,
III. They are the parents of 4 children, — George W., Alice S.,
Peter L. and Olive A. Alice is the wife of Frank Kost, a promi-
nent merchant of Astoria. Mr. I^richard is a Freemason, a Dem<v
crat and has been Sheriff of Fult(»n county 8 years and Dej)uty
Sheriff 2 years. Has also been SujuTvisor.
John PiicLrff, farmer, sec. 9; was born in Indiana Sept. 7, 1838,
son of Isaiah and Kliza I*., natives of Ohio; raised on a farm; ed-
ucation fair; came to this township in 1S52; attended Lewistown
Seminary 4 years; commenced teaching about 1860, and has taught
about 17 winter terms ; has been Assessor 2 terms ; makes a spe-
cialty of raising fine h«»rses. Feb. 15, 1866, in this State, Mr. P.
married Margaret Lenhart, who was born Feb. 15, 1866, in Ohio,
and they are the parents of 5 children, — Delia E., Marv J., J. H.,
Wm. F.' and Hattie M.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 800
Wil/idm Proctor, floocased, died at Tjcwistown Jan. 24, 1(S79 ; was
born in Dunstable, Mass., Oct. 1."}, ITDo; his father Gershoni Proc-
tor was a soldier of the Revolution and he himself enlisted in the
war of 1812. He made a triji West in 1817 and came to Illinois in
1818, and in 1820 moved to Sangamon eouuty. In 1824 he mar-
ried Mrs. Laura Warner, <laui>;htei- of .[udo:e Stephen I^helps, of
Lewistown. She died in Lewistown Aug. ."H, 18G4. Mr. V. was
a tanner by occupation. In June, 1828, he moved to Lewistown
where he lived till his death. For 60 years he was a resident of Illi-
nois and for oO years of Fulton county. lie was a great student
and was well posted on all questions of the day. He made a j)ro-
fcssion of his faith in Christ in 1813 and was a consistent member
of the Congregational Church and afterwards the Presbyterian for
G") years. He was one of the few who organized the 1st Presbyterian
Church of Springfield. He was one of the (3 members of the first
Presbyterian Church organized in this county, which was in Sept.,
1828; he and Deacon Nathan Jones were elected Elders. Mrs.
R. B. Stevenson and J. W. Proctor, both of Canton, are the children
he left.
Jdiiic.s II. RiinddU was born in Warren Co., Ivy., Nov. 27, 1815.
His parents were Wm. and Mary (Beadles) R^indall. His father
was from New York and mother from Virginia. Thev went to
Ky. in an early day and were married there, and soon after moved
to Missouri, and to Fulton Co. about LSoO^ where they died — his
father at the age of 88 and his mother at the age of 71. Our subject
was married to Sarah A. Hull >Lirch 22, 1839. She was born in
Licking Co., O., Sept. 25, 1823. Ten children have been born to
them, of whom 2 bovs and 3 girls are living; Nancy, born Dec 15,
1841; Ludage, Oct.* 9, 1847 ;' Matilda, Jan. 15, 18o0; J^hilip, Oct.
31, 1854, and Alexander, Jan. 21, 1857. Mr. R. was raised upon a
farm, and he followed farming till 1857, when he engaged in the mer-
cantile business, which he followed for 12 years, when he retired
from that and has engaged in speculating since. He is one of the
solid men of Lewistown.
Oliver Rice, farmer and stock-dealer, sec. 23; P. ()., Lewistown.
Mr. R. was born in this county, and is a son of A. and Martha C.
Rice, natives of the old Bay State. They came to this county as
early as 1831: hence truly |)ioneers. Oliver was married in this
county Oct. 1, 1873, to Alia M. Burgett, who was born Aug. 12,
1852. Henry and Mary are the names of their two children. Mi-.
R. has held many of the local offices and is a man of good business
tact. He is a member of the Presbyterian Church.
Col. Lewis W. Boss, lawver, was born in New York Dec. 8, 1812.
son of Ossian M. and Mary Ross, the former of New York and the
latter of N. J.; in 1821 they settled in Madison Co., for one year,
then came to Fulton Co. L. W. attended college .') vears, studied
law and was admitted to the Bar in 1837 ; was elected to the Legis-
lature in 1840 and 1844, and to Congress 1863-9; he was a Colonel
810 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
in the Mexican war. June 13, 1839, he married Frances M. Simms,
who was born in Virginia July 18, 1821 ; of their 12 children G are
living, — John W., Lewis C, Frank R,, Pike C, J'anny W., and
Jennie. John W. is practicing law in Washington city. Col. Ross
is a Freemason and Odd Fellow, and has ever been one of the most
influential citizens of this countv. Owns ."J.OOO acres of land.
J. W. lioafson, proprietor of saw-mill, was born in Columbiana
Co., O., in 1833; came to this Co. in June, 1855, and engaged in
farming. For the past five years has been extensively engaged in
turning out railroad ties, in which he has a large trade. AVas mar-
ried in 1856 to Miss Lucinda Marandillc, a native of this Co. He
is the father of G children, — Emmet E., A. W., L. F., H. N., Mary
E. and J. AV. His farm of 291 acres is still his home.
Jacob Schoonover, farmer, sec. 3, Lewistown tp. ; P. O., Bryant ;
was born in Pennsylvania Oct. 5, 1833. His parents, Dennis and
Mary Ann (Wise) Schoonover, are both deceased. Mr. S. came to
this county in 18G5 and has lived here since. He was united in
marriage with Mary Ann Shaw at Havana, 111., in 1865. They have
a family of G children, — Wilson E., Ida Catharine, Sidney M.,
Cobert Sherman, Marcus Henry, Calvin H. and John Alvia.
Ira Scored, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 30 ; P. O., Lewistown :
was born in Canandaigua Co., X. Y ., March 4, 1797 ; in his youth
the family emigrated to Ohio, near its Avestern boundary line;
learned a trade in Lidiana ; in his 17th year he went to New Orleans
and fought under Gen. Jackson ; then went to the State of Missis-
sippi; in 181G he came to Illinois ("Northwestern Territory " then)
and settled 35 miles below St. Louis in what is now Monroe Co. ;
Indians were |)lentiful, friemlly at first, but afterward hostile. In
1818 he married Marv, dauirhter of John Crislev, of Germanv.
This lady came to this Territory in 1804, and is consequently the
oldest settler, — possibly the oldest in the State. In 1(S24 Mr. S.
established the first ferry at Havana, and in company with Ossian
M. Ross he conducted it fi)r several years. The second log build-
ing in Havana was built by Mr. Scovell in 1827. He moved to
Lewistown, rented a farm of Mr. Ross for two years, and then
bought 40 acres, whereon he I)uilt a cabin. He broke the first prai-
rie in this township and hauled the first goods for Phelps' store.
At this time there were but 3 or 4 cabins in Lewistown. Jnlv 4th
was celebrated with a great dinner, public speaking and a military
muster. In 1830 he was Road Commissioner for the county. Mr.
S. saw the first steamboat that ever ran uj) the Mississippi river.
Many long years have gone by since then, l)ut both Mr. and Mrs.
Scovell have vivid recollections of those early scenes.
Thomas Scored was born in this county in 1835; in 1857 he mar-
ried Magdalena Littlejohn, by whom he has had 3 children, — Sarah
E., Mary J. and Emma D. ^h-. S. owns 288 acres of land. In
1833 he started with his father overland for California, in Capt.
Meek's company, and suffered many privations, subsisting on dried
f7y7??€^
LEWISTOWN
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 813
beef alone for weeks together. Thomas left hoiuc at IT and trav-
eled over the world considerably. In 18")") he was Captain of a
company of 100 intMi, and his liorse was kiUcd nndcr liini. In his
butcher shoj) in CaHluiMiia lie kiUcd a chief.
Jacob Shairrcr was horn in l'enn.sylvania in 1S04; was brought
up on a fai'ui and f )Ilowcd agricultural pursuits through life, and
handled much stock. He died in 1<S74, leaving to his family a fine
farm. He was married to Hannah Bearce, a native of New York.
Elleven children were born to them. Those living are Sarah, Eliza-
beth, Wesley, Sophia, George and Henry. Tiiose deceased are
Frank and 3 infants. Mr. S. was a member of the M. E. Church.
He came to the State in 1837.
Fnink S/icefx, farmer, sec. 20 j P. ()., I-iewistown ; was born in
Cass tp., this county, in 1855; in 1877 he nuirried Laura DeFord,
daughter of Jos. DeFord, of Bernadotte tp. ; Charles F. is their
onlv otls|)ring. jNIr. Sheets has 120 acres of land. His father,
John W., was born in Virginia, wiio married a Miss Larch, and
emiurated to this countv in an earlv dav. Mr. Sheets is a Democrat.
Hon. Simeon P. >Shope, Judge of this Judicial Circuit, was born
in Ohio D(Y'. 3, 1835, son of S. P. and Lucinda Shope, natives of
Pennsylvania; education fiir; at the age of 15, commenced teach-
ing school; taught tiiree winters, six months each; in 1855 com-
menced the study of law; admitted to the Bar in 185(), ihe same
year he settled in Lewistown ; he was elected to the Ley;islature
in 1802, and was re-elected. He was elected Circuit Judge in 1877,
and in 1879 was re-elected. Nov. 14, 1847, in this State, he mar-
ried Sarah M. Jones, daughter of Wesley and Fli/a Jones, natives
of Ohio; she was born Nov. 3, 1839; their children are Clara A.,
Charles E. and Claude W. The Judge started in life with but lit-
tle means, but now has 300 acres of fine farm land, 20 lots in Lew-
istown and a fine residence.
James W. *S^Hmn.s, farmer and stock-dealer, sec. 17 ; 1*. ()., Lew-
istown ; was born in Virginia July 31, 1815, son of Isaac and
Nancy Simms, natives of Virginia ; came to Fulton county in 1830 ;
Aug. 10, 1837, he married Louisa J. Simms, who was born in Madi-
son Co., A^a., Dec. 1, 1820, and they are the parents of 11 children:
Amelia, wife of Jacob Chrisman ; ^larv, wife of William Walker;
Sarah; Julia, wife of William Allen; James, William, Charles,
Tommy, Hattie, and two deceased, — Isaac and Thomas. Mr. S.
owns 530 acres of excellent land. He has been Road Commissioner
2 terms and Supervisor 5 terms. '
Aaron Smith, farmer, sec. 8; P. O., I^cwistown ; was born in
Ohio in 1820; was brought to Illinois when voung. In 1851 he
nuirried Almira Austin, who was horn in Illinois in 1825, and they
have had 8 children: Rachel, wife of James Woodward, this tp. ;
Mary, wife of \Vm. S. Jones; Henry J., Betsey, Thomas and
Franklin ; deceased — Isabel and James L. Mr. Smith owns 200
acres of good land and is a Republican.
814 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
I
L. D. Sinifh, of the firm of Sniitli ct Cozino, Ijlacksmiths and
niachinifits, Lewistown, is the son of Jacob and Matilda Smith, and
Avas born in Ohio Sept. 3, 1849, and was bronght to this county the
same year. At the age of lo he began to learn engineering. At
present he is working in a machine shop, re])airing machines of all
kinds. He was married in this county in 1H75 to Almeda Esk-
ridge, who was born in this comnty in ISol. They are the par-
ents of 2 children : Maggie Ij. and Maude F. Mr. S. is a member
of the M. E. Church.
Wm. M. >Standanl was born in Johnson Co., 111., Feb. 10, 1822,
sou of Thomas and Masa (West) Standard, natives of X. C. ; the
family came to Fulton Co. in 1829, settling in Joshua tp,, where Mr.
S. died in 1877. W m. M. was brought up on a farm; In 1856 he
was elected Sheriff and served 2 years. In 1862 he enlisted in Co.
A, 10.3d 111. Inf., as 1st Sergt., and promoted Lieutenant ; mustered
out in I860, and returned to Lewistown, where he has since been
hotel-keeper; the hotel was built by a stock company in 1850. Has
been Justice of the Peace and Police Magistrate in Lewistown.
April 28, 1.S46, in Canton tp., Mr. S. married Jane Ellis, daughter
of Isaac Ellis; of their 6 children 4 are living, — George, Perry, Al-
mira and Frank. Hattie and Johnnie are deceased. Isaac Elllis'
wife was Nancy Jennings, of Tennessee, and she is now a widow,
very aged, and lives near Canton.
T. F. tStaJford, grocer and baker, was born in England in 1831,
and was brought to America in 1841, the family settling near L'tica,
N. Y., where he lived until 1845, at which time he moved to Pitts-
burg, Pa., thence to McDonough Co., 111. ; where in 1856 he was
married to Miss Mary A. Nichols, a native of England. With but
little money he came to Lewistown in 1862, where he has since been
engaged in his present business, and by his indomitable will and
perseverance has accumulated a property and now enjoys a prosper-
ous trade.
W. C. >>'afo}i, wagon m inuficturer, born in Adams Co., Ky., in
1834. His parents were Hc.-uben and Maria (Austin) Staton, na-
tives of that State, where they died. Mr. S. came to this county in
1857 and settled in this city, where he has since been successfully
engaged at his trade. Was married in 1854 to Miss Eliza Bennett,
a native of Ky. Have 1 child, Charles. Mr. S. was elected Alder-
man in the spring of 1879, and gave his service to the country in
1862, eidisting as a Corporal in l()3d I. V. I., Co. A, and served
about 3 years; participated in battles of Vicksburg, Mission Ridge,
Kencsaw Mountain, and with SJKM'man in his march to the sea.
JI. P. Stipjj, physician and surgeon, was born in this State Sept.
19, 1852, son of James H. and Maria L. Stipp, pioneers in this
county ; brought up on a farm ; commenced medical studies at the
age of 20; graduated in 1.S76 at a homeopathic college in St. Louis,
since which time he has practiced here in Lewistown, enjoying a large
patronage.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 815
James H. Stipp was born in Champaign Co., O., Jan. .'3, 1817.
He is the son of Peter and Elizabeth (Harrison) Slipp, natives of
Va. and Ky., respoctivoly. Mr. S. was reared in Ohio, and came
to Canton Feb. 10, '37, and onga<;ed as salesman for Shinn c^- Vittnni-
then for 1). W. Vittum, nntil Nov., '39, he eno^ativd in the niert-an-
tile business for himself; was burned out Feb. "22, 1840; removed to
Rochester, Peoria Co., but soon returned to Canton. He then en-
gaged as clerk for (Iraham «.t S(;hneider. In 1841 began business for
himself and soon after with Stipp & Maple. Then ho continued
ah)ne till'o^, when 1^^ took in J. H. Bass, to whom he sold in 'o4 ;
was elected County Clerk in 1869; moved to Kansas after expira-
tion of term and returned to Lewistown Jan., '79. Married Sept.
16, '42 to Maria Bass, of Canton ; they have 8 children.
Moi^es Turner, cashier of the 1st National Bank, Lewistown, was
born in Illinois Jan 3, 1840, son of Nathan and Rachel Turner, the
former a native of Kentucky and the latter of Ohio ; education fair;
entered the bank as clerk at the age of 18, which position he filled for
several years, and then was promoted to the position of cashier, which
plac3 he still h )lds. In 18f)2 h,' m irried Priscilla R.-isinger, who
was born in Ohio in 1842; they had one child, Lillie, and she died
in 1868; in 1869 he married Frances Prichard. who was born in
Illinois in 1844. Nellie and Arthur are their children. Republi-
can.
H. F. Ufford, dealer in clothing and gents' furnishing goods, was
born in Oneida county, N. Y., in 1827, and emigrated to Ft.
Wayne, Ind., in 1848, where he resided until his coming to this
county in 1856. Two years afterward he engaged with ]\Ir. l^helps
in the dry -goods business, with whom he remained until 1871, when
he ventured in the clothing trade, which he has carried on success-
fully to the present day. He was united in marriage to Miss Sarah
(xray, a native of Indiana, in 1851, and is the happy father of eight
living children, — DeW'itt C, Hutoka, Judson, Bessie, J5irdie,
Ralph, Leroy and Cash.
David J. WfUfgonery ex-Sheriff of Fulton county, was born in
Pennsylvania August 22, 1822, son of Andrew and Lucinda W. ;
was on a farm until he was 15 years old; learned chair-making and
house-[)ainting ; in 1846 he settled in Lewistown, when he was
elected Sheriff, and served with signal ability until 1850; at the
commencement of the war he organized Co. G at his own expense,
and was a]>pointed Major of the regiment ; after the close of the
war he returned to Lewistown, and served as Sheriff' for six
years. He married, in 1845, in (ireenc county, Pa., Miss Rebecca
Darrak, who was born Sept. 21, 1X22, and they have had 6 children,
5 of whom are living, — James I),; FHzabeth, wife of Wm. Shafer,
of Astoria; Harry ^1.; Don M. and Fred. Freemason. Odd
Fellow, and Democrat.
Charles Walker, farmer, etc., sec 32; was born in Fayette county,
O., Feb. 14, 1826; the family emigrated to this county in 1839,
81G HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
where Charles grew up without the advantges of schools, and mar-
ried Xancy Stever. Alice 8. and Sarah A. are their two children
living. Mr. W. now owns 200 acres of land whereon he has earned
his livelihood, made improvements, etc., by his own hard work.
His father, Henry Walker, Avas born in Ross county, O. ; a farmer;
married P^lizabeth Short and had 4 children, — Charles, Emily,
Milton and Alice. Mr. Henry Walker's second wife was Hannah,
nee Eyeman, a native of Ohio. Chas. Walker's grandfather was a
soldier in the Kevolutionary war seven years. Henry Walker
moved to Illinois in ]<S39, settling in Isabel township, where he
bought 160 acres of land, but he died leaving 900 acres to his heirs.
Xcirfon ]V((ll:e)', farmer, sec. 22 ; P. (),, Lewistown ; was born in
Madison county, Va., in 1803; son of Merry and Elizabeth (Kirt-
ley) Walker, natives of Virginia, where his father died in 1811;
came to this county with his mother in 1835, traveling 60 days in
a wagon and reaching this city, where he settled in the fall of 1835;
four years afterward he settled on his present estate of 100 acres,
which was patent land at that time and owned by Ossian ]\I. Ross;
it was on this elevated spot that Ross first built a rude hut and after-
ward erected a log house which was for a few years occupied by
Major Walker, but has given ])lace to his present commodious dwel-
ling. He was married in 1834 to Eliza A. Simms, daughter of Reu-
ben C. Sirams, who emigrated from Virginia in 1835, settling in this
city, where he died in 1847. In 1837 Mr. W. was Commissioner of
Fulton county, and represented this county in the Legislature of
1838-9 ; also served as Supervisor one or two terms, and identified
himself with the interests of the county. He drew the jilans for
and erected the court-house in 1838, and ranks among the early
pioneers. He was appointed Major under the old military laws of
Virginia, and is recognized by that title. He is the father of 4
children: Mollie, wife of Mr. Harris; Henrietta, Robert and
Amelia, wife of Dr. Talbot.
/. 31. Wallace, druggist, Lewistown, was born in Clay county,
Ind., in 1846. His j)arents were E. G. and Isabel Wallace. The
fiunily canui t(» the West in 1850 and settled in Knoxville, and the
following year moved to Mahaska county, Iowa, where they resided
three years. In 1855 they settled in lud Wing, Minn. Three
years afterward they returned to ^Marietta in this county, and in the
sj)ring of 1874 moved to this city, where the subject of this sketch
practiced dentistry for two years, when he opened his present place
of business, where he has since continued in the enjoyment of a
prosperous trade. In 1867 he was married to INIiss J. R. Hobbs, a
native of this countv. Thev have one child, — Zulinc.
Jamcx Wdthi))^, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 32 ; P. O., Lewis-
town ; born in Indiana in 1824; his father, James W., was born in
Kentucky, where he married Christiana Snarmse, by whom he had
12 children, James, jr., being the 3d; the latter was in his 3d year
when the family settled in Menard Co., 111., where he subsequently
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 817
married a daughter of Thos. Whitely, of Ky., and they have had
11 chiklren,4 now living. His first wife died, and in 1871 he mar-
ried Mrs. Nancy Butler, widow of T. J. Butler, of Kerton tp.
Mr. W. served in the Mexican war and was honorablv di^charwd
at Metamoras. He moved from INIenard to INIason county, tauijht
school and followed farming until 185(), when he moved to this
county and some time afterward bought the 80-acre tract on which
he now lives. Was Justice of the Peace in Mason Co., and School
Director in this county. Old Scliool Bajitists. Democrat.
FcrdliKDU^ ]Vcir((ther, sec. 6; I*. ()., Lewistown ; born in Germany
Jan. 1, 1825; has always been a farmer, working at times, however,
at cabinet-making; came to Illinois in 184f>, spent 9 months in
Peoria in 185G, then came to this place; he married in Ncav York
city, in 1850, a lady who was born in Germany in 18o0; they
have 10 children, — F. \\., Edward, Henson, Amelia, Charles,
IVIary, Ida, George, Sidney and Henry F. Baptist. Has been
School Director.
/. C. Wi/lco.ven \vas born in Fstill Co., Ky., in 1829; his parents
were Elijah and Charlotte (Calloway), natives of N. C, who emi-
grated to this Co. in 1830 and settled in Liverpool tp., where he
died in 18G0. The subject of this sketch came to this city in 1869
and became identified with the banking interests of the city, of
which he is an officer at the ])resent time. Has for vears lieen ex-
tensively engaged in cutting and furnishing railroad timbers through-
out the country. Perhaps no man in the community has done more
for the advancement of the business interests of the city than Mr.
AV. He has an interest in the Beadles' block, the M'oolen mill, and
two stores, besides working about 5,000 acres of land in various
sections, being the largest land owner in the county. In 1851 he
was married to Miss Clarissa Putman, a native of this Co., who
died July 8, 1877, leaving 6 children, — Alice A., Lewis K., Henry
C, Laura X., ^lary C. and Oliver L. In Sept., 1879, he married
Miss Mary Alice Hare. We present the portrait of Mr. W. in
this volume.
L. K. Tr//fco.cew, son of preceding, farmer, sec. 27, was born in Liv-
erpool tp., this county, in 1855. This young and enter[)rising agri-
culturist and stock-raiser now has 270 acres of land in this tp. In
1877 he married Alice Baughman, daughter of Harry W. B., of
this city.
A. Wif/lson, saddler and harness-maker, T^ewistown, was born in
Bradford Co., Pa., in 18;')! ; his parents were Anion and Marv Wil-
lisou, who settled in Ohio, where he died in 1837. His widow,
with children, came to this county in 1856 and settled in this city,
where she died in 1874. The subject of this sketch enlisted in the
spring of 1861 as 1st. Ijieutanant in Co. H, 17th I. V. I., served
one year; and in rank of Ca|)tain recruited Co. A, 103d Regt., in
which he served until the close of the war ; participated in the battles
of Ft. Donelson, where he received a slight wound, Vicksburg, Black
48
818 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
River aiul Resaca, where a niiiue l)all ])a>!«((l tliroiitrli liis leg while
ill coimnaiul of the regiment; at Mission Ridge, while in eomniand
of the advauee line, a shell pierced his hat, just grazing the skull.
His horse was shot under him while in this charge, yet the troops
fought nobly. At Pittsburg I^anding his life was again preserved
by a watch, which was a target for the minie ])all. He was elected
Major of the regiment and commissioned Lieutenant CVdoncl, in
which rank he followed Sherman in his march to the sea. He was
married in 1853 to Miss Catherine CVmley, a native of X. Y. State,
who died in I^ewistown in 18G7. His present wife, Mary, nee
Clark, is a native of this city, by whom he has '2 children, — Nellie
and Augusta. Mr. W. has been engaged in saddlery and harness
business since the close of the war, and in 1875 opened a livery
stable and is conducting a good business.
Wesleif Wil/ison, proprietor of Willison House, Lewistown, was
born in Perry Co., C, in 1833, son of Anion and Mary Willison,
natives of Maryland, who emigrated to Ohio, where he died in
1837. The subject of this sketch came to this county in 1856 and
settled in this city, where his mother died in 1874. He first became
prominent as a hotel-keeper in the Old Centennial, and afterward
ran the Central House one year. In March, 1879, he ]nirchased the
hotel which was known as the Beet House and christened it after
his own name. He also keeps a general stock of groceries, and
enjoys a large patronage in l)oth branches of business. He was
married in 1854 to Miss Sarah A. Long, a native of Ohio, and is
the father of 3 children, — Olive A., Abraham L. H. and Charles H.
John S. Winter, lawyer, was born in Mason Co.. Ky.. July 8,
1826, son of John and Margaret (Livingston) Winter, natives of
Maryland ; was educated at Miami University, Oxford, O., and for
;i time was engaged in the Journal office at Louisville, Ky., and be-
gan the study of law at Little Rock, Ark., in the office of Albert
Pike and Senator Garland of that State. Three years later he be-
gan practice in Chicot Co., Ark., and in 1863 removed to Lewis-
town, where he has since been successfully engaged. Was married
Nov. 24, 1856, to Miss Eliza Johnson, a native of Pennsylvania
and a graduate of the Jacksonville University. She died Aug. 14,
1867, leaving 4 children, — I^izzic, Louvie, Willie and Mamie.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
SUPERVISORS.
N.Walker 1S.50 Robert B. Stevenson 1S70
Joseph Dvckfs ISol S. }'. Shope 1871
Newton Walker 1S52-53 JohnA.Grav 1872
L.W.Ross 18."i4 .Joseph Dyclies 1873
James P. Slack 1855 John A. Grav 1874
N.Walker 18.i(i Jolin H. Teirsol 1875
H. B. ?:vans 1857-59 Henrv B. Stillman 1876
N.Walker 18(i0 S. P. Shope 1877
James W.Simnis 1861-65 Robert Prichanl 1878
Henrv L. Rrvant 18HG Wm. J. Dvckes 1878
Thomas A. Boy<l 18fi7 JJeurv L. Brvaut 1879
John H. Peirsol 1868-69
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 819
TOWN CLERKS.
Henry Young 1850 F.P.Paul] lS()l-63
James Veits 1851 George Whitaker 18ii4-65
George Hunii)hrey 1852 F. P. Paull 18fi6
JohnA.Criss 1853-55 E.A.Edgar 1867-68
F.J.Porter 1856 Milton ("ain 1869
John Bli.ss 1857 Silas Dial 1870
George Humphrey 1858 Wm. J. Dvckes 1871-73
Wm. McComb 1859 Wm. W. JFox 1874
Augustus Rice 1860 A. M. Barnett 1875-79
ASSESSORS.
F.J.Porter 1850 W.W.Brown 1863-64
Hugh Lamaster 1851 Moses Bordner 1865
Wm. P. BLssell 1852 I. C. Worley 1866
Mich. lel R. Campbell 1853 Noah Seiver 1867
John Bliss 1854 John Prickett 1868
W. Kirkpatrick 1855 R. M. Ewan 1869
M.R.Campbell 1856 Wm. McComb 1870-71
N.Walker 1857 John Bliss 1872
S. P. Walker 1858 Jonathan Harn 1873
N.Walker 1859 Wesley W. Hull 1874
Jackson Carter 1860-61 W. W." Brown 1875
Thos. W. Saunders 1862 W. W. Hull 1876-79
COLLECTORS.
H. P. Kelley 1850 Wesley Willison 1868
John Randall 1851-52 J. Clark Moorhead 186!)
W. C. Worley 1854-55 Thomas Neil 1870
William McComb 1856 John Chambers 1871
John Bliss 1857-58 Isaac Livingston 1872
N. H.Turner 1859-61 LsaacGrier. 187:!
S.P.Walker 18(52 Jolm Hunter 1874
H. V. V. Cute 1863 John M. Lewis 1875-76
N.H.Turner 1864 Robert Campbell 1877
F.M.Williams 1865 JohnHunter 1878
John Wcrtman 1866 James H. Randall 1879
Wm. L. Scott 1867
LIVERPOOL TOWNSHIP.
This is the largest township in Fulton Co. It contains an area of
26,258 acres, 10,794 of which are improved. The first settlers of the
township, who came as early as 1826, were Chas. Deprest, Joseph
Allen and his wife, who was a daugliter of Squire Willcoxen,
John Farris and family, Francis Smith and family, and Seth Hilton
and family. The first death to occur in the township was that of a
son of Asa Smith and a grandson of Francis Smith. About the
first marriage, if not the first, took place at the residence of Elijah
Willcoxen in 1831. The contracting parties were Zerilda, his
daughter, and Moses Johnson. The widow of Joseph Allen mar-
ried Benj. F. Roebuck. She is still living in Liverpool township,
upon sec. 11, and is 79 years of age. She tells quite an amusing in-
cident illustrating how easily the people were frightened by the re-
port of Indians in the neighborhood on a raid. Some of the neigh-
bor children came running to the house one day and said the Indians
had killed their father. Her husband and other neighbors immedi-
ately took their guns and went in search of the red-skins, determined
upon having revenge. The cause of the scare soon became known.
A German family recently came into the neighborhood, and most of
the members of the family had black eyes and wore their hair long,
which also was black. The children had seen some of them in the
corn-field gathering corn and mistook them for Indians, and hence
the scare.
/^Mrs. Roebuck in an early day made shoes for the entire neigh-
borhood. She would take her tools and go from one family to an-
other and make up their shoes. She changed around in this way
until the neighborhood were all "shod." vShc probably made the
first shoes ever manufi\ctured in the township^ and possibly the only
female shoemaker ever in Fulton county. She also did much weav-
ing fi)r others. { She says she has made enough shoes to pay for a
good (pKirter-section of land.y Mrs. Roebuck is one of those good-
hearted, lovable old ladies whom it is a pleasure to meet.
The first grist-mill was built by Isaac Clarke on section 20, in
1833. The first saw-mill was erected by Leonard Lilly and Wil-
liam L. Barker on Buckhcart creek in 1830. This mill for many
vears was known as Maus's Mill, but has long since gone to decay
and its remains have been carried away by the floods until not a
stick remains to point out the old site. When this mill was in oper-
ation the water in the creek was abundant enough to enable them to
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 821
run for cio-ht months during the year, but now it does not afford
water sufficient to run a mill scarcely a month, on an average, dur-
ing the entire twelve. It was owing to this diminished supply of
water that the mill was abandoned.
THE HORROR OF 1849.
The most cah\mitous period in the history of Liverpool township,
or indeed of the eutire county, was the dreaded and fearful visita-
tion of the Asiatic cholera in the year 1849. Homes were entered
by the dark monster of death and loved ones carried off without a
word of warning. Families were broken up and divided. Fathers,
mothers, brothers, sisters and children were taken with the fatal dis-
ease and ere a day had elapsed were a corpse.
A very full account of the rage of the cholera in this tp. at this
time was prepared by Robert Prichard, who was personally acquainted
with the sad facts, and published in the Fulton /)emocra^ during the
year 1878. We re-pul)lish his account of the horror:
From St. Ijouis the disease made its way up the Illinois river by
steamboats, and many a poor wayfarer was taken from some steam-
boat and buried in haste amid the shadows of the lonely shore — no
hnmiu being left to tell the spot where he was buried.
By accident this dread disease was introduced into Liverpool tp.,
six miles east of Lewistown. This is the awful story:
July 3, 1849, Esq. Robert Summers, of that neighborhood, hap-
pened to be in the village of Liverpool on the Illinois river. A
steamboat lay at the landing. Hearing that a man was dying of
cholera on the boat, it is said that Es(j. Summers gave way to
sympathy or curiosity and went to see him. He returned to his
home, was two days afterward taken sick with what appeared to be
dysentery, and died on the lOth. Job Mncklin undertook to make
him a nice cherry coffin, but got it eight inches too short! He was
compelled to make another, and thus the corpse was left uuburied
two days. This was a fatal blunder, as the secjuel will show. Esq.
Jordon Prichard, father of ex-Sheriff Robert Prichard, hastened at
once to the bed-side of his friend and neighbor, Es(}. Summers, and
remained with him until his death. Es(|. Prichard and Mrs. Sum-
mers were taken ill on the 12th. Mr. P. died on the loth. Ahijah
Arnett made a very neat coffin for him and he was buried on the
14th. Mrs. Summers died on the 16th. The neighborhood was
now panic-stricken. Tiirec of the Summers children were taken
with cholera on the 18th and died the same day.
Only a few brave men could be found to care for the sick or bury
the dead. Mrs. Summers was buried in an hour after she died.
They wrapped an old (piilt about her, placed the remains in a rude
box and buried her in silence and terror.
Mrs. Prichard was stricken on the 15th, died at 2 o'clock p. m.,
and was buried that evening. Alive and well at sunrise, the red
822 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
sunset lit up her new-made grave ! Mrs. P. had spent the previous
dav in washing: her dead husband's clothes. How sad was her
burial ! Some of the neighbors dug the grave. Her son Robert
and William Denny were left alone to bury her. Wrapped in a
quilt, placed in a rude box, these two carried her to the grave.
Those who dug it fled upon their approach. The two boys got the
box partially in the grave, Mhieh was too short; the box lodged,
one end on the bottom, the other two feet higher. The boys could
neither get the box down or out. So they filled up the grave.
Thomas Stockton was taken ill that day, and died and was buried
the next, or 16th. John W. Pittman, now a prominent attorney at
Havana, took care of him alone*during his sickness. A little |)aling
fence still marks the grave of this self-sacrificing hero on the hill
near Jacob Maus's.
The cholera then took Alexander Prichard, aged 17, Rebecca
Prichard, aged 2 (Robert's brother and sister), and a child of Mrs.
Havens, also one of the Prichard girls. These all died on the Kith
except the child Rebecca, who died on the 18th. The brave men
who cared for and buried these victims were Jesse Florv, Robert
Prichard (then aged 18), Wm. Denny, John ^y. Pittman, James
Jennings and Jake Fisher.
One of the saddest incidents of the whole horrible visitation was
the death of Mr. and Mrs. Fritz. They lived alone in a hut amidst
the dark woods. The "burial band" heard that he was dead. They
went with a box in a wagon to bury him. Arriving at the house
the dving woman crawled over the body of her dead husband, im-
ploring their aid. They put the corpse in the box, carried it away
a few feet and buried it at the foot of a tree. They took the poor
woman in their wagon and carried her four miles away to some of
her relatives. They refused to take her in I The boys laid her
under a tree and there she died in horrible agony with no brave
hand to put a cup of water to her famishing lips ! Mrs. Fritz was
the last victim. The neighbors left alive had flown. The remain-
ing Summers children Mere taken to friends in Henry county.
Seven of the Prichard children were left. Benjamin and Eliza-
beth went to Jacob Maus's and were kindly cared for by him and
his noble wife until they were nearly of age. Sarah and Ellen, the
voungest, went to Mason county to live with their sister Mary Jane
Havens, until they were grown. Robert and James worked among
the farmers until tliey were married.
Mrs. Northnj) (whose husband had run off for shooting and kill-
ing Beamas in Liverpool), and a Mrs. Phil. Numbers, who lived on
the edge of the island just below Liverpool, sent for the Prichard
children at first, fresh from their pestilenee-stricken home, and cared
fur them until they could go to their future homes.
What grand, brave souls were these that braved death in taking
these stricken children to their hearts and homes I No history of
our countv will be eomj)lete that does not pay lasting honors to these
heroic men and women.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 823
As soon as the Summers children were taken away their house was
burned to the ground.
Robert Prichard, witli an eye to economy that was as admirable
as the i)liu'k displayed, took all the family clothin(>j and sunk it in
an adjacent stream for ten days. He then wrung them out and had
them washed and preserved. Some of this clothing is still pre-
served in the family as relics of that memorable visitation of the
"angel of death."
The doctors whose services were tendered to these stricken ones
were John B. McDowell, Thaddeus Nott, and a singular character
named James Ashby, a mulatto. It is claimed they all did noble
work and mutually saved many lives.
The contagion lasted but about one week, and was wholly confined
to the s])arsely settled sections Nos. 11, 14, 15, 16 and 25 in Liver-
jX)ol township. But the dead numbered thirteen souls, as follows:
Mr. and Mrs. Summers and three children ; Mr. and Mrs. Jordon
Prichard and two children; Mrs^. Haven's child; Thomas Stockton,
and Mr. and Mrs. Fritz.
Several persons were ill with cholera, but were rescued by the
skill and heroic care of the brave physicians and neighbors named
above. The following names are remembered among those who
were ill and recovered: Wm. Dickson and wife, Charles Shaw and
wife, James Prichard and Benj. Havens.
We have read with interest carefully prepared accounts of the
cholera visitatio^is in many cities and towns, but we donbt if ever
this country witnessed so rai)i(l and fatal an ejiidemic, all things con-
sidered, as that which decimated the sparsely settled Prichard sc^ttle-
ment in 1849.
LIVERPOOL.
Liverpool is situated on the up])er end of a beautifid island, a
little over a mile long and a little less than a mile in width, formed
by the river on one side and overflowed lands, with lakes and
ponds, on the other side. The village was founded Aug. 13, 1836,
•by R. E. Little, Wm. Elliott, Jos. Sharpe, Theo. Tarleton, E. D.
Rice and Roger Veits. The place for a long time promised to be-
come eventually an important shijiping point, but the difhcidty of
building and keeping in repair a l)ridge or turnpike across the low
land (mile and a half wide) between it and the agricultural com-
numity north of it, retarded its growth. Besides, the steamboat
landing there is not good most of the year. Being a small ]ila(;e
and out of the wav, it has never been reached bv railroad, althoii*jh
grading for one was once done from Canton to this j)oint, and thus
all hop3 of prosperity f tr the place is lost. It now has about 200
inhabitants.
Maple's Mill, or " Slabtown," was started as a saw-mill village
about 1851-2, Thompson Maple, of Canton, establishing here (at
the corners of sees. 2, 3, 10 and 11) a saw-mill to furnish oak plank
824 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
for the Canton and Ijiverpool Plank Road. The mill has long
since gone down and the remains all cleared away, bnt the village
(of a dozen or fifteen houses, perhaps) survives. Maple's Mill is
the name of the postoffice here, and there is a good church edifice
and a school-house also at this ])oint.
CHURCHES.
The Salem Baptist Church. — This was the first regular religious
organization of Liverpool tp., and was constituted a Church on the
10th of August, 1830, at the house of Jeremiah Farris on the
northwest quarter of sec. 10. The visiting officiating Eldjers and
Deacons were Elders John Logan and Stephen Strickland and Dea-
cons Landrian Eggers and James McCan. The lay members at its
first organization were Francis P. Smith, Preston (Joforth, John
Goforth, John Farris, Jeremiah Farris, Samuel Cozad, Xathan
Thomas, Benj. Ford, James Pennington, James Pollitt and their
wives and others. The records of this Church from 1830 to 1833
were lost, but among the first Folders and probably the very first,
Avere Elders John Goforth, John Miner, John Holcomb, Squire
Willcoxen. Samuel Cozad was probably one of the first Deacons.
The names mentioned may be considered the fiithers of this society.
At a meeting held May 24, 1834, according to the records, after
opening with prayer, "on motion, the Church says that they will
build a meeting-house, and that the meeting-house shall be 26 feet
wide and 30 feet long, made of logs ; the logs shall be hewed 7
inches thick and face 10 inches in the middle, and that the Church
hold a call-meeting on the 29th at the house of Brother Francis P.
Smith, to arrange the business for building of the same." At this
meeting means were taken, and the house Mas built on the land of
John Farris, which he appropriated for that purpose, on the south-
east quarter of sec 32, Buckheart tp. The congregation continued
to meet in this house until abctut the year 18o(j or '57, when means
were raised to build a new house. Capt. Elijah Willcoxen deeded
land to the church fi)r that purpose on the northwest quarter of sec.
8, Liverpool tp., on which the society immediately erected a more*
modern church edifice. It is a frame building about 28x40 feet
with a 12-foot ceiling and seating about 300. This edifice was
built, princij)ally at the expense of Elijah \\'illcoxcn, A. J. Will-
coxen, Jesse B. Willcoxen, iNIajor E. C. Willcoxen, J. C AVillcoxcn,
J. F. Willcoxen, Marshall X. \\'illcoxen, S. B. Snider, Ira Kuy-
kendall, Rol)ert (iotbrth and otiiers. The memlx'rship of the
Church at present is small. The present Elders are Cyrus Hum-
j)hrcy and Stephen l^olender. The Deacon is Nathan Turner. It
would, ])erhaps, be interesting in these records to state that Elder
John Gofitrth, a man well and widely known throughout this coun-
ty for his thorough ])iety and earnestness in the cause of Christian-
ity among the pioneers of this county, was Elder and Pastor of this
Church from the time it was constituted up to 1852. He moved to
-t*
■«-' . *'*"*^
V- /* ^
BRYANT
5 ^^ -V*V |P^
r
J!■.K■:s^^^>^i^-
m
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LIVERPOOL TP
/
. 1 L • 1 r^
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OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS,
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 827
Iowa, where he still continued in his Christian labors. He died
some years since.
CHURCHES.
Jlounf Pleasant Jlcfhodist Church. — This society worshiped in a
building on section 20: formerly called Apple Church.
Liverpool Church. — This building was erected as a Presbyterian
edifice, but understood to be also for the use of other denominations
as well. The Presbyterians have died or moved away, and the
Methodists use it mostly. A, G. Little, of Altona, is the only liv-
ing trustee.
Maple\s Mill Church is on sec. 11, and is Methodist Episcopal.
New Bethel Jlethodist Church is on sec. 18.
Union Chapel Methodist Church is on sec. 20.
SCHOOLS.
In Liverpool township are 8 district schools. The oldest is the
Salem school, on sec. 8 ; next was Apple school-house, now Mount
Pleasant; next, Liverpool, on sec. 25; then Maple's Mill (sec. 10);
Hall's school-house (sec. 6, range 5 east) ; Prichard's school-house
(sec. 15, now called No. 6) ; Xo. 8 (sec. 21), and finallv Xo. 7
(sec. 20).
The first school Mrs. Wm. Hummel knew of in an early day was
taught in the kitchen of John Farris, by Jordan ^^'illcoxen; these
schools were what was called " loud schools," /. e. each scholar in
the school-room would study their lesson out loud. The first
"silent school" that was started, a little girl told her mother she
moved her lips, but had not said a word all day, and had fooled the
teacher.
BIOGRAPHIES.
John G. Ackerson was born Feb. 15, 1831, in Lewistown tp., son
of Abram and Eleanor (Kent), the first a native of N. Y., and the
latter a native of Ohio, who came to this county about 1828, set-
tling in Lewistown tp, John G. enlisted in the 85th I. V. I., Co.
B., in Aug., 18G2 ; at the end of ten months he was honorably dis-
charged on account of sickness ; he was 4th Sergeant; was in the
battle of Perryville, etc., but was never wounded. Mr. A., about
1856, married Miss Sarah, daughter of BenJ. Keeler, and has had
two children, only I^aura B. living now. Mr. A.'s second marriage
was in Cowley Co., Kan., June, 1870, to May Walworth, daughter
of Noah Walworth, formerly of New York. Mr. A. is now living
on sec. 32.
Cleanthes Arnett was born April 2, 1805, near Sharpsburg, Bath
Co., Ky., son of John Arnett, of Virginia, and grandson of Thos.
Arnett, of the same State ; his mother's maiden nanu> was Rebecca
Whitecraft, a native of Tennessee, and daughter of John White-
828 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
craft, a native of Pennsylvania and of Dutch descent. Cleantlies,
in the f;dl of 18"2(), and in his native county, married Mar<i;aret
Deanc, who was born in Kentucky in January, 180!), daugliter of
James Deane, also a native of Kentucky. Nine years after their
marriaf^e, they settled in Sanj^amon Co., Ill,, and -in the sprinj»: of
IH'.M tlicy located on the southeast quarter of sec. 19, Liver[)ool tp.
Mr. Arnctt has always been a farmer. In 1859 he built a frame
house, into which he moved. In politics he is an old-line ^\ hig,
opposed to human slavery and a zealous advocate of temperance.
Has been School Director several years. Children born in Ken-
tucky,—John R., Sept. 7, '27; Rebecca W., Jan. 14, '29 (dec);
Nancy J., May 12, '30; James H., March 27, '82; born here —
Joseph M., June 5, '37; Mary M., Jan. 15, '39; Anna A., Dec. 18,
'40; Melinda E., Jan. 12, '44; Cleanthes M., March 12, '40;
Martha E., Feb. 27, '48; Emily M., Dec. 10, '49, and Thomas E.,
Feb. 27, '52. Joseph M. served in the Union army, Co. K., 103d
Reg't., three years, and was in the most noted battles and marched
with Sherman to the sea ; received sunstroke while in the army ;
died in Aug., 1874, leaving a widow and 5 children. His wife's
maiden name was Roxana Huston. He was a Republican and a
mend)er of the M. E. Church.
John A. Beckntead was born near Prescott, Ontario, Canada, Aug.
3, 1836, son of George and Dinah (Middah), natives of Canada.
His grandfather was Alexander Beckstead, a native of Germany.
Dinah ^Nlitldah was the daughter of John Middah, also a native of
(jcrmany. John A.'s parents came to Cantt)n in 1840, followed
farming two years; they settled on sec. 6, Liverpool tp. in 1857;
they both died here in 1862. Children — JNIary E., Sarah Ann,
Eliza J., Martha S., John A., Orelia A. and Caroline C. John A.
occupies the old homestead. Feb. 15, 1863, he married Gla])hy
Ardena Raker, born Sept. 10, 1843, daughter of Nelson and Martha
Ann (Mullens), natives of Ky. and Mo. John A. Beckstead's
children are: John N., born May 13, 1865; Dora Ardena, Nov.
18, 1868; James H., Nov. 6, 1870; Martha Ann, Aug. 12, 1872;
Ida May, Dec. 14, 1875, and My ram, May 25, 1878. Mr. B. is a
Democrat. Has been a School Director, etc.
Isaac Black, deceased, was born in P)erks county. Pa., went to
Virginia, where he married Grace Woodford, a native of Philadel-
])hia. Pa. Her parents were English. They moved to Ross county,
C, about 1811, where the next mentioned was bt)rn.
Isaac Black, farmer, son of preceding, was born Jan. 30, 1813,
came into Liverpool township, this county, Oct. 7, 1842, lived sev-
eral years west of Cuba, and bought the farm on which he now
resides (140 acres of sec. 4, Liverpool townshij)) in 1857. He mar-
ried Elizabeth Ann Byers at Washington, Fayette county, O., Oct.,
1839. She was born Oct. 15, 1819, in Botetourt county, Va. They
have had 12 children : Hcni-v, born July 27,1840; Marion, Nov.
30, 1841; William, Feb. 3, 1844; James, Nov. 27, 1845; Hannah
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 829
J., Feb. 21, 1849; Martha A., April 30, 1851 ; Mary liouisa, Sept.
10, 1853; Sarah E., Sept. 3, 1855; Isaac Theodore, Nov. 23, 1857;
Celesta Alice, Dec. 23, 1859; Edith M. July 31, 1861, and Travis,
May 2, 1803. Henry died Sept. 22, 1866, Celesta A., Aug. 5, 1876,
and Travis while an infant. Eight of the children are married.
Mr. Black is ready at mechanical work, having been carpenter, shoe-
maker, etc. In politics he is a Democrat, and in religion he is a
member of the Protestant Methodist Church.
Mr. Black relates many remarkable experiences of early life in
Illinois, as illustrated by those given in our chapter on the escrly
settlement of this county. In the severe winter of 1842-3, describ-
ed in that chapter, Mr. B. relates that money was so scarce that to
obtain even 25 cents in cash a man had to lie, by claiming there
was a letter in the postoffice for him and he wanted to pay the post-
age on it and get it. Then, by delivering a load or so of hoop-
poles with that plea he would sometimes raise the two "bits." At
the close of that winter he tap])ed 20 sugar-trees, from which he
made 100 pounds of sugar and 37 gallons of fine syrup. One tree
yielded over a barrel of sap in one day ! He says that in early day
snakes were very abundant. Rattlesnakes were so thick in 1842
that he would not step out after dark for $10. He saw one with 29
rattles.
Win. Black was born in Buckskin township, Ross county, O., in
March, 1820, son of Isaac and Grace Woodford, the first a native
of Virginia and the latter of Philadelphia; born during the Revo-
lutionary war. Mr. Black came to Fulton county in April, 1859,
and first located at Maple's Mill; has always been a farmer, and
for the last 8 years on sec. 11. Dec. 30, 1841, in Ohio, he married
Miss Rachel, daughter of James Pummel ; she was born in May,
1821 ; their children are, John F., born Oct. 20, 1842; Allen, Feb.
19, 1845; Grace E., Sept. 25, 1851; Henry O., Oct. 12, 1854;
Rachel Arabella, Feb. 26, 1858; Charles, July 22, 1860, and Simon
D., iJune 5, 1863. The first 3 are married. Methodist. Democrat.
Lewis E. Bordwine was born in Lewistown township, Nov., 1852 ;
his father was Nathaniel Claxton Bordwine, who married Mary
Elizabeth Simms, a native of Virginia. Lewis E. married Eudora
C. Crosthwait Sept. 5, 1872, daughter of Eli C. Crosthwait. She
was born April 28, 1852, and is a Methodist. Mr. B. is a professor
of religion and in politics independent.
JVathaniel Claxton Bordwine was born Oct. 5, 1803, in Albemarle
Co., Va., son of Louis E. Bordwine, a native of Germany, who ac-
quired a little fortune as a merchant tailor, and died three weeks
before the subject of this sketch was born. Until 13 years of age
he was taken care of by his grandfather "Tuggle," in Washington
Co., Va., and afterward by his mother in Russell Co. In 1822 he
married Olive Robbins, a native of the latter place and daughter of
Wm. Robbins, and they emigrated to Vermilion Co., 111. in 1825,
and in 1827 came to Fulton Co., where they, by hard work, soon ac-
830 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
cnniulatefl moans onoiiorh to jjiircliase a quarter of sec. 4, Lewistown
tp. 8lie (lied in 1<S;U ; and Nov. '21, 1849, he married ajjain, this time
Elizabeth Simms, of Va., daughter of Tandy and Mary (Reddis), of
the same State. Chihlren bv first wife — Sallv, born in Vir";inia ;
Anna, born in Vermilion Co., 111.; and Polly, born in Fulton Co.:
by second wife, — Mary F., June 14, 1850 ; Lewis E., Nov. 12, 1851 ;
Amy L., Sept. 29, 1853 (dee. Oct. 17, 187()); Martha A., Nov. 2,
185*j; Mariraret J., Feb. 2, 1857; Nathaniel C, Nov. 5, 1858;
Tandy Oliver, Oct. 23, 1860 (dec. Nov. IG, 1860); Olive M., Oct.
5, 1862; Phoebe C, Sept. 3, 1864; Reuben M., Oct. 9, 1866; and
Prudence E., April 16, 1869. For the last 18 years Mr. B. has
lived on sec. 18, Liverpool tp. ; has cleared 375 acres of land and
improved 5 or 6 different farms; now owns 420 acres in 3 farms,
besides other property ; stock-raising is his specialty ; was a soldier
in the Black Hawk war. Republican.
Ezekiel Bosirc/l was born near St. I'aris, Champaign Co., O., Oct.
18, 1835, son of David and Nancy (Colbert), natives of the same
place; came to Fulton Co. in 1855, settling in Buckhcart tp., but
now living in Joshua t]). ; they had six children. Ezekiel married
in July, 1856, Helen Carver, daughter of P. M. Carver, and their
8 children are: Wm. E., born May 27, '58; Chas. P., April 5, '62 ;
Emma F., Aug. 11. '65; John A., June 2, 1867 (dec. 1875) ; David,
Dec. 2, 1869;l^^-ank, May 11, 1872; Edgar, April 24, 1875 (dec.
while an infant) ; and Ada May, April 16, 1878. Democrat. School
Director. Sec. 5 ; 100 acres.
Will. li. Clark was born near Troy, Miami Co., ()., July 15, 1823,
sou of Isaac and Sarah (Royal), the former a native of N. J. and
the latter a daughter of Wm. Royal, of Monongahela Co., W. Va.
Parents came to Fulton Co. about 1832, and i\lr. Clark built the
first grist-mill in Liver])ool tj)., on sec. 21. His first wife was Lydia
Zelyph, of New Jersey, and they had 10 children; by second wife
he had 6 children. W. R. worked at the carj)enter's trade for about
14 years, but has been a farmer and stock-raiser for about 25 years,
on st'f. '1\. His first wife was Elsie (Fitzgerald), of Fulton county,
and they had 4 children, — Kmily \\'., Orville W., Lydia M., Jesse
B. Mrs. C. died in April, 186."), and he married Sarah E. Griggsby,
of this county, daughter of Wm. and Dorcas G., and they also had 4
children, — Delta, Nellie, C^irrie and Wm. M. Mrs. Clark died
Jan, 21, 1S7."), and Mr. C. still lives on the old homestead. Dem-
crat. Has been School Director. Has now 2cS4 acres of land, a
large, two-story brick house, cleared 75 acres, and split 10,000 rails
by himself
Win. Den III/ -WAS l)orn in Northumberland Co., l*a., Oct. 8,181 1,
son of Philip and Nancy (Deacon), natives of Kent Co., Del.; his
grandfather, Philip Denny, was a native of P^ngland. Wm. was
mainly brought uj) in Ohio; first came to Fulton Co. in the fall of
1842; from 184.'> to 1845 he lived in Missouri; has lived on sec 2
for the last 28 years, where his farm consists of 165 acres; he has
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 831
cleared most of it and put on the inijirovcnients. lie married Mary
Beets in 1835; she was born in Roekbridiiv Co., Va. ; their only
offspring is Margaret Elizabeth, who married lieverly G. ISIilner,
but is ncnv a widow, living in Canton township. Mr. Denny is a
zealous Demoerat.
Bichard Hall was born in Ixith, Greene Co., O., Feb. 10, 1821,
son of John Hall, a native of Clarke Co., Va., and a grandson of
Kiehard Hall, a native of Virginia and of English ancestry. May
10, 1831, Kiehard Hall, the subject of this biography, with his j)ar-
ents arrived in Fulton Co., locating on sec. l.'>, Lewistown tp. ;
lived in Mason Co. a vear or so, then returned to Fulton Co. ;
mother died Dec. 2, 183(5, and father in April, 1843. Their chil-
dren were Prior, Richard, Moses, Hannah, Daniel, Pluebe and
Mercv. The first two are the onlv ones living. Prior married Pluebe
A. Nichols and lives in Sangamon Co. Richard married Anna
Imel, daughter of Peter Imel, a native of Maryland, and of Ger-
man ancestry. Richard Hall is a Republican, and has been School
Director for 14 years or more.
Barion Lee Hurrixon was born in Eewis Co., Ky., July lo, 1832,
son of James and Sarah C. (Jjcc), and first came to Fulton Co. in
1855; Nov. 25, 1858, he married Miiry M., daughter of Cleanthes
Arnett, who died the following October, leaving one child, which
died an infant. INIav 8, 18()2, he man-ied Charlotte T. A\'illcoxen,
born Feb. 5, 1844, daughter of Jesse B. W., of this tj). Of Mr.
H.'s 10 children 8 are living,— Mary C., born in 1863; Martha E.,
May 10, 18(54; Robert E. L., Oct. 28,. 1865; Sarah E., Feb. 24,
1867; James B., March 27, 1869; Jesse B., Sept. 12, 1.S70; Emma
R., Feb. 5, 1872; Owen C, March 14, 1874; Aujrusta P., INIarch
14, 1876; and Tyra H., May 11, 1879. Jesse B." died in infancy
and Owen died aged nearly 4 years. Mr. Harrison now lives on
sec. 18, where he has been since 1866; has always been a Democrat,
and has been School Director, etc. Mrs. H. is a member of the
M. E. Church, South.
Francis Marion Harrison was born in Lewis Co., Ky., Aug. 9,
1828, brother of the foregoing, and came to this county in Novem-
ber, 1848; March 4, 1(S52, he married Elizalx^th Walker, who was
born in Kentuckv Julv 14, 1<S33, dauy, liter of Ihmh and Nancv
(Given) A\'alkcr, natives of Ky. They settled in this township in
1835, and followed farming. Mr. W. (lic<l in Api-il, I Sod, and she
died 11 days afterwards. Mr. Harrison has had 6 children, 3 of
whom are living, — John W., born Nov. i*, 1.S55; Ad(>lia P)., Nov.
9, 1857; and Sidney E., July 27, ]8()5, He has been School
Director, Road Commissioner, etc. Democrat. Methodist. Has
lived on sec. 18 for the last 20 years.
Elijah Jcnninf/x, farmer and hunter, was born in Estill county,
Ky., Nov. 27, 1817, son of Daniel and Debbie (Willcoxen) Jennings,
natives of North Carolina, and of Scotch descent ; was brought up
by Thos. T. Bybee, his step-father; has been a resident of Fulton
832 HIST(J11Y OF FULTON COUNTY.
coiintv since 1829. He remembers that Charley Deprest, a French-
man, was tlic first settler in Liverpool township; that the first <rrist-
mill was htiilt l)v Isaac ("lark in 1<S;5;>, on sec. 20, in Liverpool ; and
that his first school-teacher was Richard Tompkins in 183L As a
hunter IVIr. Jenninp;s has seen as many as 100 deer in one day, shot
4 deer one dav without moving out of his tracks, has killed 13 in
one dav, and averai2:ed 100 a year for 28 years. He was so exact as
a mai-ksman that tliey would not let him shoot at the matches. In
'78 he found 32 swarms of bees, this year 27 swarms, and one year he
found 40. Nov. 28, 1837, he married Ellizabcth Farris, and they
have had 10 children, 7 of whom are living. Mr. J. has been a
mendier of the Hai)tist Church for 30 years, and his wife is a mem-
ber of the Christian Church. lie is a " Jackson Democrat " and has
never scratched a ticket ; has been School Director, and Constable,
and is at j)resent Assessor and Collector.
James Kujihcndall is probably the oldest man in Liver]>ool town-
ship, being- now [)ast 04 years of age. He was born August o,
178"), near Pittsburg, Pa. For one of his age he is unusually ac-
tive. One day last summer he walked 18 miles. He first came to
this county in 1831, prospecting, and in 1837 he j)ermanently located
on a fl\rm in Putman township, 1 J miles north of Cuba, where he
lived for nearly 20 years. Nov. 14, 1811, he married Elizabeth
Aton, daughter of Aaron Aton ; four years afterward they moved
to Richland county, O., now Ashland county, and entered 1(30 acres
of land. Indians were troublesome, and one day he ordered some
of them off his premises, which made them angry and they
threatened his life; but they were j)ut to death by their own tribe
for so molesting the white man. Mr. K.'s children were Ira ; Ma-
tilda, born in August, 1814; I^ucinda, June 7, ISKJ ; Abigail, Feb.
21, 1818; Sarah, June 7, 1X20; Henry, in 1822; Susan, in 1824;
Anna, in 1826; Jane, who died at the age of 4 years. Mr. K.
taught school in his youth, and at the age of 18 he was elected Cap-
tain of Militia in Pennsylvania, in which ca))acity he served for 7
vears. ^Ir. K. has been a pioneer in three States, which are now
far in the interior of civilization. Has given each of his children a
farm. Denu)crat.
Jacob Manx was born Sept. 21, 1814, near Taneytown, Frederick
(now Carroll) Co., Md., son of Jacob, sr., a native of Adams Co.,
Pa., and grandson of George Maus, of Holland, who settled in
Pennsvlvania bctiire or about the time of the Revolution. Jacob
Maus, sr., served in tlie war of 1X12. His wife was Sarah, ne^
Hahn. The sul)ject of this paragraph was brought up a miller,
both in saw-mill and Houring-mill, in ]\Iaryland ; came to sec. 13,
this tp., May (>, 1840, and paid 82,500 for a pre-emi)tion claim on
320 acres of land ; four years afterward he discovered that the claim
was worthless, and he then bid in the land from the Government, at
$1.25 per acre; there was a saw-mill on this land, which he ran for
15 years, adding to it a grist-mill during the time; he uow has 480
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 833
acres of land ; in 1801 he built a two-storv brick (Iwellinp;, with
basement, •2()x4() feet; just previously he had built a frame barn
40x80 feet, to which 3o feet has since been added. Mr. Maus found
but 20 acres cleared when he first came here, but by industry he has
increased tlu> plowed land to 350 acres. This gentleman is a Demo-
crat and has been Supervisor 10 or 12 years. School Treasurer a
lonjx time, etc.; is an Episcopal ISIethodist. Jan. 30, 1840, he mar-
ried Mary Fornnvalt, who died May 19, 1878, a member of the M.
E. Church ; of their three children, Joscphns II, died in infancy,
John W. died at the age of 13, and Jacob Perry was born Dec. 25,
1850, and married J^ottie INIorton, who was born May 12, 1859, the
daughter of Richard and Eliza (Allen) Morton, and they reside at
his father's. We give Mr. M.'s portrait in this book.
Wm. 3IcCracI:cn was born Nov. 27, 1829, in Hopewell, J^icking
Co., O., son of John and Margaret (Simcox), father a native of
Ohio, near Athens, and of Irish origin, and mother of Pennsyl-
vania, near Pittsburg, of French ancestry; April 14, 1851, he mar-
ried Fanny Bordner, who was born April 15, 1831, in Ivicking Co.,
()., daughter of Peter and Christina (Losh) ]^)ordner, natives of
Pennsylvania. The latter ciame to Fulton Co. in 1853, and are now
living in this tp., aged 97 and 86 years. Wm. McCracken's chil-
dren : Arrista, born May 30, 1853, and married Mary Morton,
daughter of R. W., and lives on the homestead in another house;
Ira Artemas, Sept. 17, 1854; Samuel, Fel). 19, 185() ; and Hilda flane,
Feb. 7, 18(54, — all at home. Mr. McC. has been Collector, School
Director, Road Commissioner, etc., and is a Democrat. He is a
substantial farmer, residing on sec. 6 for the ])ast 28 years ; 240
acres of home farm, besides 80 acres two miles away ; he commenced
here in 1851 with only $9 and a team and wagon.
Charles MeCumber was born Jan. 10, LSI."), in Ontario Co., N. Y.,
son of Wm. McC, of the same county, and Ph(ebe, daughter of Beriah
Kelly, of Scotland. Charles was brought uj) in Madison Co., ().,
where he married Iluldah R. Dane, daughter of Jacob Lane, of that
county; came to Fulton county in Oct., 1838, settling on a farm of
50 acres southwest of Lewistown ; afterward lived awhile northeast
of Lewistown ; in 1809 he moved to sec. 30, Liverj)ool tp., where he
has a farm of 108 acres. His wife died in Dec, 1844, leaving 4
children: Wm. W., born Oct. 18, 1837; Sarah J., Nov. 22,1838;
Orville M., Sept. 8, 1840 ; John, May 10, 1842. Mr. McC. took for
his second wife Sarah Caplinger, who died Dec. 11,1856, leaving
two children: Huldah, born Sept. 12, 1848, and Clara M., May 5,
1853. ^Ir. McC.'s third wife was Mary E. Weaver, whom he mar-
ried in 1858, and their 5 children are, Mary A.; Phoebe L., born
Aug. 19, 1860; Mvron N., Mav 10, 1862;' Thomas A., Dec. 31,
1864; Florence L.,'july 13, 186*7; and Samantha A., July 3, 1870,
— all living except Myron N. Three sons served in the Union
army during the war, — Wm. W., Orville M. and John, Mr. McQ,
was formerly a Whig; is now a Republican.
834 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Meiisena B'. Nott was born in Windsor, Morgan Co., O., Jnly 19,
1839; is the son of S. M. Nott, who came to this conntv in IS/Jo.
Mr. N. enlisted Ang. 22, 186-2, in Co. B, Soth Til. Inf.,' and was
on detached service for 14 months >ars artillerv-man in Battery I, 2d
111. Art. Went with Sherman to the sea. He was Corporal and
acted as Com. Sergt. ; at the battle of Peach Tree Creek he went in
with 40 men and came ont with 18, the rest killed, wonnded or
taken prisoners. While on the march from Sand Town to Atlanta
they were annoyed greatly by the enemy's sharpshooters. On one
occasion while Mr. N. was trying to get a shot at one of these gentry ;
he ])artlv exposed his person from behind a tree, when zip! went a
bullet, which cut his belt from his waste. He was married Oct.
13, I860, to Ellen M. Arnett, who has borne him 5 children.
Stephen H. Nott was born in Vermilion Co., Ind., ISIay 10, 1840,
and is the son of Dr. Nott. He enlisted Aug. 4, 1862, in Co. B,
85th 111. Inf., for service in the late war. He was in the battles of
Perryville, Stone River, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Lookout
Mountain and Knoxville; was with Sherman on his famous march
until the battle of Peach Tree Creek July 19, '64, when he was taken
prisoner and was an inmate of Anderson ville prison from July 21,
'64, till March 24, '60, when he was paroled.
Dr. Thomas Xott is a native of Roxbury, Washington county, O.,
where he was born Feb. 17, 1809 ; came to this county in 183-3, but
located ])ermanently in 1841, and taught school f >r 2 years. His
father's name was Samuel Nott, native of N. H. His grandfather
was Thomas Nott, a native of England and a Revolutionary soldier.
His mother. Amy (Van Clief) Nott, was a native of N. J. and
daughter of Peter Van Clief, also a Revolutionary soldier. Dr. N.
was married in Ohio T^Farch 13, 1828, to Celesta Kent, daughter of
Jal)(> and Catharine (Johnson) Kent, — the Kentsof English origin,
the Johnsons of Dutch. Dr. N. has been in the practice of medicine
continuously since he came to this county. Resides on sec. 29.
Tijfin R.'Xott is a native of Ohio, and was born in Washington
county, Jnly 1, 1833; parents. Steward M. and Pluobe (Kent) Nott;
they came to this county April 27, I80O, and settled on sec. 31,
where they lived till their death. Mrs. N. died in Dec, 1867, and
Mr. N. in' Feb., 1868. Mr. N. was a very strong Democrat in pol-
itics and served the townshij) in some official ])osition about all the
time; was J. P. for 8 years, but never tried a case, inducing parties
to come to an amicable settlement rather than to spend their time
and money in law contests. T. R. is now serving as J. P. In '57,
Dec. 27, iie married Elizabeth V. Keeler. daughter of Bcnj. and
^Farv A. (Ackerman) Keeler, and was born June 27, 1842. Their
children are Mary C, Chas. A., Cora L. E., deceased, and Thomas
C. They reside on sec, 20, on land entered by Benj. Keeler 43
years ago. Upon this land are many Indian mounds, where
relics have been ]>lowed up, among which are sea-shells, with
notches cut, eviently to hang in the ears, as ornaments ; also birds
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 835
made of clay and of diiFerent species, copper tools and im])lo-
ments, etc.
James O'Brien, farmer, was born in Buffalo, N. Y., in 1842, and
came to this county in the fall of 1860; married Caroline, daughter
of Solomon Snider, in Jan., 1865, and located permanently on N.
W. I of sec. 3, Liverpool township. After having two children
(Minnie C, May 3, 1866, and Harry E., Aug. 16, 1868), Mrs.
O'Brien died, April 6, 1875. Mr. O'B. married again, Atha Car-
ter, who had been born and reared in Lewistown township, and was
a daufrhter of Jackson Carter, of Kentuckv. These have had one
child, Jessie Maud, born Nov. 27, 1878. He has 164 acres in farm,
all made by himself. Republican.
Mr. O'B.'s father was John O'Brien, also a farmer, who married
Many Harkin. Both were natives of Ireland, and after their mar-
riage they came to Buffalo, X. Y., about 1837, where she died. He
afterward died in Delaware, Oiiio.
Alvin Pollift, farmer, sec. 6, is son of the next mentioned ; was born
in Mason county, Ky., Oct. 3, 1835. He married Emily C. Estes
Nov. 17, 1847. She was a daughter of Lewis and Ann (Farris)
Estes, and was born in Franklin county, 111., Nov. 6, 1840. They
have 8 children : Oliver P., John A., James L., Alexander, Wm.,
Chas. H., Laura A., and Delia Josephine. INIr. P. has always taken
a deep interest in educational matters and has been School Director
in District No. 1 for 12 years. He was almost the first advocate of
free public schools in the District. He agitated the (luestion and
the benefit of building a school-house against great opposition from
some, even threatening to shoot him. On being elected Director the
first time, he immediately made a contract for and had built a school-
house on his own land. It was made of hewn logs. It has since
been abandoned and a fine frame erected. This District has a
school fund of ^4,000, the principal of which was secured from sale
of lands.
James PoUiff was born in July, 1800, in INFaryland. His parents,
Jonathan and Narcissa (Pollitt) Pollitt, were natives of Maryland.
They moved to Fleming county, Ky., in 1809, and James married
Mary Thomas July 21, 1822. She was born in Fauquier county,
Va., ^larch 16, 1802. They came to this county in Sept., 1836,
bringing a family of 6 children. James Pollitt died Feb. 14, 1875.
The widow is living upon the old homestead with her son James.
One son, George E., served in the 55th 111. Inf during the war for
3 years. Mr. P. was a member of the Baptist Church, as is his
widow.
Amos F. Potfs, deceased, was born in Loudon Co, Va., Sept. 15,
1805, son of Isaiah Potts, who married Elizabeth Brown. Amos F.
married Elizabeth S. Dolson, in Zanesville, O., April 25, 1828, who
'was born Feb. 13, 1810; they came to Clark county, 111., in Jan.,
1830; Oct. 31, 1833, thev arrived in Fulton countv, settled on sec.
29, where Mr. Potts died Dec. 17, 1866. Of his 10 children 8 grew
49
83(5 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
up and were married, and were all born in this eonnty exeept the
two eldest, as follows: John Wm., Lemuel W., Iluldah Ann,
Thonuis I,, (Jeor<>e W., Wm. H. II., Mary J. and Sarah E., twins,
Martha J., and Emily A. The parents saw the hardships of pioneer
life, ineluding; troubles with the Indians. They were onee driven
from their home by them, and on their return they found all their
goods piled in the middle of the floor and a few Indians there, who
said, "Bad Indians gone; they were going to burn the house, but
good Indians wouldn't let them." William enlisted in the 103d
111. Inf. and was killed in aetion at the battle of Atlanta.
Lemuel W. Pottx, son of preceding, enlisted April 29, 1801, in
Co. H., 17th 111. Inf, the first man from Liverpool tp. ; was badly
wounded at Frederiektown, Mo., by a shell ; was one of those who
made the second eharge on the enemy's works at Ft. Donelson, car-
rving them at the point of the bayonet; was in the front a great
deal at the battle of Shiloli, where he was again wounded; touched
fire to the 40-barrcl magazine of powder set to blow up Ft. Hill,
making a very narrow escape of his own life ; his regiment was the
first to enter Vicksburg after the surrender; and after engaging in
other hard-fought battles (47 in all, including skirmishes) and res-
ponsible military duties, his regiment was mustered out at Baton
Rouge, May 14, 18(36. He now has 1,700 acres of land, and is an
extensive stock-raiser and ftirmer. April 9; 1870, he married his
first wife, Martha E. Patterson, who died Feb. 14, 1871 ; Dee. 4,
1873, he married Jennie Walworth, a native of St. Lawrence Co.,
N. Y., daughter of Noah and ]\Iargarct Walworth. Mr. Potts is a
"stalwart" Republican, and has been School Director several years.
Thomas I. Potts, son of Amos F., above mentioned, married Sarah
[jivingston, Nov. 13, 18(34, daughter of Ccorge Livingston, a
native of (Jhio, and she was burn Oct. 13, 184(); their six children
living are George W., born Aug. 29, 1865; Charlev, Nov. 28,
1867 ; Lilly M., Jan. 22, 1870; Effie D., June 25, 187i ; Chalmers,
Jan. 1, 1874, and Gertrude, Jan. 22, 1878; ;>rinnie B. Mas born
Jan. 22, 1870, and died aged 6 months. Mr. P. is a Republican;
has a farm of 123 acres.
Edwin Preston, son of the next mentioned, was born Aug. 31,
1844, and married Sarah E. Blanchard, daughter of lri\ B., of
Brimficld, Peoria Co., a native of Maine, near Kingfield. He has
4 children, — Winnie Y., born Sept. 28, 18()7 ; (George }l. and
Gertie L., twins, Dec. 4, 1870, and Roy B., June 21, 1877. Mr. P.
has been in office ever since he was 21, as Town Clerk, School Di-
rector, School Trustee, Road Commissioiter, etc. Democrat. Is a
farmer and stock-raiser on see. 14.
Iliram Preston was born at Kingfield, Franklin Co., j\Ie., Jan.
2:'>, 1817, son of Peter and Mary (Winslow) Preston, natives of
Martha's Yineyard, Mass., and Peter's father was James, of the*
same jdace and of English ancestry. ]\[rs. Mary Preston's father
was Ezekiel Winslow, a native of England, and his father's name was
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 837
Caneliim. INIr. Hiram Preston came to Illinois in 1839, stop-
ping in Peoria Co., and coming into Fulton Co. in 1840 to reside.
In 1841 he married Tryphena Hathaway, a native of Kingfield,
Me., and daughter of Luther and Clarissa (Hinds) Hathaway, na-
tives of Mass., near Taunton, Ijuther's father was Gilbert, born in
En}>;land. Luther Hathawav and wile came to Peoria Co. in 183G ;
he died in March, 1873. Mr. Hiram Preston has always been in
the saw-mill and lumber business, and in fanning, owning at present
5 farms. Mr. P. is a Democrat ; has been Postmaster at Maple's
Mill for nearly 20 years. His three children arc Edwin, Frank
and James Austin.
Joi'don Prichard, deceased, was a native of Washington Co., Pa.,
and came to this county as early as 183(3 and located on sec. 16,
Ijiverpool tp. His wife was Artemisia Shaw, of Licking Co., 0.,
where they Avere married. Eight chiklren were born to them :
Mary J.; Robert; Alexander, who died of cholera in 1849; James,
Avho has been Steward of county farm since 1869; Elizabeth, Bert,
Sarah, P^lla, and Rebecca, who also died of cholera in 1849. Jordon
Prichard was a farmer by occupation and a prominent man. He
died of cholera after one day's sickness July 13, 1849, being the
second victim, Robert Summers being the first. Mrs. P. was taken
sick on the loth and died the same day. Then followed Alexander
and Rebecca. Singular it is, but on rising that morning INIrs. V.
remarked that she dreamed the past night that she, with 2 of her
children, were to die with the cholera. She ate breakfast as well as
usual and by 11 o'clock a. m. was dead. The father of Mr. V. was
Benjamin Prichard, a soldier of the war of 1812. INIrs. P.'s father,
Alexander Shaw, was a Revolutionary soldier.
Joseph G. Puiinau was born Jan. 31, 1830, in Lewis Co., Ky.,
near Maysville, and is a son of Daniel K. and Anna (Grover), the
former of Culpepi)er Co., A^a., and the latter of Maryland, near
Baltimore. Joseph G. came to Fulton Co. in 1 854, locating on section
14, and stopping here two years; in 1864 he bought the farm on
wdiich he now resides, — 160 acres on sec. 30. He married, in this
county, Christina, daughter of Peter I^ordner. Charles AV. is their
only child. Daniel K. Putman was a teacher and Methodist
preacher for nearly 50 years. He died, aged 77 years.
James S. Baker was born Jan. 18, 1847, son of Nelson Raker;
Dec. 3, 1871, married Mary Leonard, a native of Carter Co., Tenn.,
born April 4, 1851, and daughter of Obadiah and Esther (Lacy)
Ivconanl, both of Tennessee; their children are: Hetty, born June
22, 1872; William, Dec. 31, 1874, and died May 25, 1875; James
D., April 11, 1876; and Frankie, Aug. 12, 1879.
Nelson Bxiker was born in Se])t., 1812, in Clark county, Ky., son
of David ]\L and Susan PI (('haney) leaker, natives of N. C,
the former of German ancestry and the latter of En<>;lish. Nelson
was married in Clark county, Ky., Feb. 9, 1835, to Martha Ann
Mullens, w4io was born in Kentucky ; they came to Fulton county
838 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
in Nov., 1855, l)rinp:ing: 9 children. Three -were born in Fulton Co. :
Amanda J., Franklin (dec. in infancy), and Nelson. Mr. Raker
tirst lived on sec. 7, 5 east, 2 years, then near Slahtown 1 year, then
in Warsaw one winter, then on his present farm on sec. 5, 5 east.
Mrs, R. is a member of the Christian Church.
Geo. W. Ray was born July "24, 1843, son of \Vm. Ray, in Ash
Co., X. C. ; came to this county in 18(35; June 24, 18G6, married
Mrs. Anna Adeline Yail, daughter of Elijah Willcoxen, and they
now live on sec. 9; she was born Dec. 10, 1825, in Estill Co., Ky.,
and May 30, 1850, married Joseph Appleton Vail, a native of
Middleton, O., who died May 19, 1852, leavine; one son, Joseph C.
Mr. Ray served in the 6th N. C. Cav., Confederate army, for 3
years.
Benjamin Scholes emigrated from Yorkshire, Eng., to the U. S. in
1820. Soon afterwards he volunteered as a soldier in the Seminole
or Florida war. He afterwards located in St. Louis and was engaged
in steam-boating on the Mississippi and Illinois rivers until about
1840, when he located in Liverpool Here he carried on a general
merchandising business for many years, and in '73 moved upon his
farm on sec. 2. His wife's maiden name was Lucinda J. Deaver, a
native of Md, Thev have a family of 8 children out of 10 born to
to them. Mr. S. died March 6, 1876.
Amos Shaw enlisted in the 17th 111. Inf., and served about 3 years
in the war of the Rebellion, died at Brownsville, Miss., of lung
fever, ]\Iarch 21, 1863. One of his children is still living in this
county, James B., on sec. 8, Liverpool tp. He married Mary E.
Eveland in Oct., 1877.
Peter Shaw is a native of Licking Co., O., where he was born Oct.
17, 1837; ])arents were Amos and Angeline (Bordner) Shaw. Mrs.
S. was a daughter of Peter Bordner, an early settler of this county.
Amos Shaw moved with his family to Iowa, where he died. His
widow married W. W. Brown and now lives in Lewistown tp.
Peter S. married Dec. 5, 1862, Sarah E. Potts, daughter of Amos
F. Potts, who is now living with them on se(\ 30. They have had
10 children, only 2 of whom are living, Orville P. and Sarah M.
They have an adopted child by name of Martha.
Hezckiah Shcnfelta, sec. 7, son of John and Susan (Swigart) S.,
natives of Pa. and of German descent. The former is dead and the
latter is living in Marion Co. Mr. S. came to this countv in 1867;
married Sarah J. Flaherty, a native of Va. She died, and he mar-
ried Mary Cooper. His children, dead and living, are, Victoria,
deceased, Mary E., Elizabeth L., Abraham, deceased, Charles A.,
Edward F. and Margaret, deceased.
\Vil(i((in Shields. Andrew Jackson Shields came to this county
about the year 1834 and located on a farm near Canton ; worked at
blacksmithing occasionally. His father was Robert Shields. His
wife's maiden name was Margar^'t Red. They were married in
Indiana and had a family of seven children, all now living except
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 839
Mary E. A. J. Shields, sr., died in 1848, Wm, Shields was born
in 1836, and Man^h 14, 1861, he married Nancy M. Willcoxen,
daughter of Maj. Elijah W., and is now living on sec. 10. He has
4 children, — Prudence Luella, Andrew L., deceased, Elijah Cal-
loway, Anna C. and George Lee.
Robert Stinvneri^, with a small family, settled at Waterford soon
after the Black Hawk war. He was a Kentuckian by birth and
education, but his wife was from Vermont. This family soon moved
to Lewistown, and after a iew months moved again to the vicinity
of Liverpool, where they changed residence occasionally. Mr. S.
undertook, about 1840, to build a bridge across the overflowed land
north of Liverpool, and after a mile of it was nearly done, a flood
carried it away, and he was consequently involved in debt from which
he never recovered. In 1841 or '42 he settled on the place now
occupied by Hiram Preston, where he remained (except in 1844 he
had charge of the Farris mill at INIilton, three miles northwest of
Lewistown) until he ended his earthly career in the great calamity
detailed in the chapter of horrors elsewhere in this volume. He
died July 10, 1849, three children died on the 13th, and his wife
died on the 16th, — five out of a family of nine in six days! Three
of the remaining children still live, — Ewing at Galesburg, 111.,
Robert in Mississippi, and ]\Iary (now Mrs. Stockton) in Colorado.
" Esquire" Summers was generally elected a Justice of the Peace
(in Liverpool township), although he was a Whig and all his neigh-
bors Democrats. He taught music and a public school occasionally,
and was always held in high esteem.
Abraham M. Weaver was born in Madison Co., Va., June 7,
1835. He married Sarah Slmw March 5, 1857. She is a daughter of
Robert and Catharine (Bordner) Shaw. Mr. W. has lived on sec.
7, 5 N., 5 W., for 12 years, and has improved most of the place.
His parents are Alfred and Louisa (Kirtley) Weaver; Alfred and
wife came to this county in the fall of 1836, bringing 2 children,
Abraham and Elizabeth. They lived the first winter at Lewistown.
He now lives at Maple's Mill. A. M. W. has 7 childi'cn living:
Christina, Frank, S. Kossuth, Walter N., Fanny, A. G., Aman-
da and Wm. C.
George W. WheeJbarger was born in Augusta Co., Va., Nov. 9,
1821, son of Cyrus W., a native of Rockingham Co., Va., and
whose father was a native of Germany. Cyrus married Sarah Ehr-
man, whose parents were of Germany. Geo. W. came to Fulton
county, Sept. 12, 1855, and worked at a saw-mill for J. C. Will-
coxen for 3 years, then bought a farm of 130 acres on sec. 6, Liv-
erpool tp., and resided here ever since. Aug. 31, 1855, in Va., he
married Eliza Drumeller. They have 6 children, namely : Addie,
Granville K., Estie, Vintie F., Franklin G. and Atha C., all living
at home.
John Whitehead was born in Saddleworth, Eng., June 4, 1807,
son of John and Betty W. Our subject came to America in 1845,
840 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
to Fulton Co., April 26, same year. He was a skilled manufacturer
of woolen, silk and cotton goods in Eng. He early engaged in the
saw-mill business here. He also ran a steamboat named ''Liver-
pool'*' between La Salle and Beardstown. Since 1803 has been en-
gaged in farming, on sec. 14, 5 N., 4 W. He bought this farm for
the timber on it, but now has 100 acres under cultivation. He
married Nancy Savill, who is a native of Eng. They brought a
family of 7 children when they came to the tp., and have 3 born
here. Mrs. AV. died in April, 1857; he married in 1858 Wini-
fred F. AVood. John AVhitehead, jr., served in the L^nion army for
3 years; was a sharpshooter. Mr. W. says when he first came here
it was reported and believed that the first white child born in the
tp. was Mason Eveland, on the S. W. J of sec. 14.
Willcoxen Family. — Jeremiah F. AVillcoxen was born Feb., 1833,
. on sec. 5, Liverpool tp. ; father's name was Elijah Willcoxen, who
came to this tp, Nov., 1830; J. F. lives on the old homestead that
his father settled on in 1830; principal business has been farming
and stock-raising, with the exception of serving two years as
Sheriff, being elected to that office in 18G3; has held nearly all the
offices in his tp., and is the present Supervisor, which office he has
held for the past 5 terms. He is a member of the Christian Chruch ;
married Feb., 1867 to Lorinda Rinor of Peoria Co.; have a family
of three children, — Alary Adell, Frank B. and Chas. L.
Capt. Elijah AVillcoxen was born in Ash Co., N. C, in 1789. He
was a volunteer in the war of 1812; also served two years in the
Black Hawk war, first as Lieut, and then as Captnin. He was a
grand nephew of Daniel Boone. He first settled in Liverpool tp.,
Nov., 1830. At the time of his death, which occurred July 3, 1860,
his 12 grown children were at his funeral, and his posterity num-
bered 114. He was a pillar in the Eegular l^nptist Church ; was
Justice of the Peace for many years and served in nearly all the
offices of the township. His wife's name before marriage was
Charlotte Calloway, who was born in Ash Co., N. C. She was a
daughter of Col. Elijah Calloway, for years a prominent member of
the X. C. Legislature. They were married in 1811, soon afterwards
movino; to Kentuckv, where thev lived a frontier life for 15 vears,
when they moved to Fulton Co. and settled on the farm now occu-
pied by the youngest son, ex-Sheriff' J. F. Willcoxen. Mrs. Char-
lotte W. departed this life June 18, 1874; was the mother of 14
children, — 7 boys and 7 girls, 12 of whom lived to have families.
At her decease her posterity numbered 204.
Six of the boys lived on and owned farms adjoining the old home-
stead at the time of their father's death. The Willcoxen family at
this time own land north and south for .'» miles on each side of the
road. The children are: Jesse B., E. Calloway, Andrew Jackson,
Marshall Ney, James Calvin, and Jeremiah F.
Major E. Calloway Willcoxen was a farmer ; also carried on the mill
business; he was an enterprising and influential man in the county,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 841
taking an interest in matters of public importance; was elected to
many offices in the township; was supervisor for several years and
held other townshij) offices; was a staunch Democrat in politics.
He was born in Estill county, Ky., March 12, 1817. He met with
an accident by which his thioh was broken and died from the cilects
Jan. 22, 1872. Like his father, he came to be considered a sort of
patriarch in the neighborhood, and was respected and beloved by all ;
he left a widow and a large family of children ; she still lives on
the homstead on sec. 8. She was Prudence Putman, daughter of
Redding Putman, an early settler of Putman tp.
Jesse B. Willcoxen, the eldest son of Elijah Willcoxen, lived on
sec. 8 ; was born Sept. 14, 1813 ; his farms lay on sees. 8, 16 and 17 ;
he was an extensive farmer and owned nearly or quite a section of
land. He was married twice ; his first wife was Priscilla Stufflebeam,
by whom there were 8 children born. She died, and Mr. W. mar-
ried a second time. Margaret Smith ; by the last union there
were 6 children. He was a member of the Regular Baptist
Church. He died the 17th of Oct., 1872, very suddenly. He left
a widow and 12 children and 200 relatives. His widow still resides
at the old homestead on sec. 8. He served with his father in the
Black Hawk war.
Andrew Jackson A\'illcoxen, born Dec. 7, 1818; opened a large
farm in Liverj)ool tj). on which he built a fine brick house, with
other improvements; sold out and moved to California, remained a
few years, when he returned to this county and again sohl out and
moved to Arizona, where he is now living engaged in farming,
stock-raising, etc. II(> m:u*ried Mary .1. Grigsby.
Jarass Calvin Willcoxen, after improving a large farm in Liver-
])Ool tp. on which he built a large brick residence, he moved to
Lewistown, where he now lives. He has been extensively engaged
in the lumber business, also merchandise, flouring mills, woolen
mill, hotel, and at [)resent is extensively engaged in farming, own-
ing about 5,000 acres; has this year some 1,200 acres of corn ; also
engaged in grading the Eulton County Narrow-Gauge Railroad from
Havana to Fairview, for which he has taken a contract.
Man^hdU Xcj/ WiUmxen was born in Estill Co., Ky., Sept. 5, '27,
son of Elijah Willcoxen, now living on part of his fither's estate,
sec. 4; has been engaged in milling and lund)ering. May 4, 1854.
he married Harriet Laswell, daughter of Andrew and Barbara
(Baughman) liaswcll, earlv settlers of Putman tp. She was born
March 20, 183(). Of their 12 children \) are living, viz: (^alvin L.,
E. Amelia (now wife of John layers, near Bryant), fleremiah C,
Marshall Ney, jr., Charlotte A., Nellie Florence, Margaret E., Mary
Inez, and George Ray. He is a Baptist and Mrs. W. is a member
of the Christian Church.
842 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a list of the township officials serving since the
organization of the township, together with the years of serving:
SUPERVISORS.
Jacob Mnus 1850-51 Franklin Farwell 1866
Thomas II. Hand 1852 Jacol) Maus 1867-68
C. Willfoxen 1853 Robert Prichard 18(59
Jacob Maus 1854-58 J. F. Willcoxen 1870-72
E. ('.Willcoxen 18o9-60 Jacob Maus 1873
D. U. Bovington 1861 Benj. F. Scholes 1874
Robert Prichard 1862-63 Jacob Mans 1875
Jacob Maus 1864-65 J. F. Willcoxen 1878-79
TOWX CLERKS.
A. G. Poe 1859-60 James D. Putman 1868
Hiram Preston 1861-63 Hiram Preston 1869
S. R.Quiglcv 1866 Edwin Preston 1870
Hiram Preston 1867 Hiram Preston 1871-79
ASSESSORS.
Elijah Jenninfis 1859 E. .Tennings 1871
Robert Prichard 1860 R. W. Morton 1872
James Prichard 1861-62 E. E. Saunders 1873
E. Jenninirs 1866-67 E. Jennings 1874
James Prichard 1869 R. W. Morton 1875-77
R. W.Morton 1870 Elijah Jennings 1878-79
COLLECTORS.
R. W. Morton 1859 JesseB. Willcoxen 1869
J. B. Willcoxen 1860-61 Wm. Sliields 1870
J. F. Willcoxen 1862 J. B. Willcoxen 1871
M.N. Willcoxen 1S63 E. Ji'imings 1872-73
Wm. McCrai'ken 1864 Hutrh Flemming 1874
Robert Prichard 1865 S.T.Denny 1875-76
F. M. Harrison 1866 Frank Preston 18/7
Robert Shaw 18()7 Edwin Preston 1877
James Prichard 1868 Josei)h ('. Vail 187.-79
ORION TOWNSHIP.
Mr. John Wolf and family came to this township in 1828, and
settled upon sec. 18. John Orendorff and AVm. Ulmer came into
this neighborhood about the same time. Of this family we speak
in the personal sketches. Sarah Motsingcr was the first child
born in the township. The first school was taught by Patsey Brown
u])on sec. 18. The first school-house erected was in 1838, and
Esquire S. N. Breed, now of Canton, taught the first school in
it. The first preaching done was in Mr. Wolf's house. Ozias Hale
was the first resident preacher. He had charge of the Duck Creek
Baptist Church, which is now the First Baptist Church of Canton.
John (3rendorff erected the first frame house and burned the first
kiln of brick. The first saw and grist-mill was erected upon the
west branch of Copperas creek by Gabriel Walling.
The township is mostly covered with timber land bordering upon
the three branches of Copperas creek with their various little tribu-
taries. At the north line of section 35 Co})peras creek divides, and
what is known as the East Branch of Copperas creek flows east and
nortii through the township, and what is known as the Middle
Branch flows southeasterly. Near the southwest corner section 26,
what is known as the West Branch of Copperas creek enters the
Middle Fork.
-^There are 9,931 acres of im})roved land in the township, and 13,-
529 acres of land which is not in cultivation. This is not ex-
ceeded by any other township in tiie county except by Liverpool,
which has a much larger area.
Kuwait Station was laid out by Jonas Rawalt, ujion his land on
section 30. It is on the line of the T., P. & W. liy., and only a
few miles from Canton.
Breed's Station is another little place upon the line of the Toledo,
Peoria & Warsaw Ry. in tiiis township. It is upon the southwest
quarter of section 27, and laid oH' by C. G. Breed.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
Lewis L. Jones, co[\]-m\nQr, was born in South Wales in 1827;
began working at mining when he was 10 years of age; came to the
United States in 1848 and si)ent a year in St. Louis, then went to
St. Clair county, III., commenced mining in Caseyville, and in 18G7
came to Canton and worked on the first shalt ever sunk
there. His present mine on sec. 30, Orion tp., he opened in the
844 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
spring of 1871. The coal is of fir.st quality, and the working is 4 ft.
8 in. Mr. Jones married Elizabeth Morgan, a native of Wales.
They have had 8 children, 6 of whom are now living, — William,
Lewis, Elizabeth, Thomas, Margaret and Hannah.
John B. Kvlli/ was born in Cortland Co., N. Y., in 1820; moved
to Trivoli township, Peoria Co., 111., in 1838, and 4 years afterwards
to his present farm, sec. 11, Orion tp., where he owns 320 acres.
He was married to Miss Rachel, daughter of Joseph Proctor, of
Orion tp., and a native of Hamilton Co., 111. They have had 14
children born to them, 10 of whom are living, — P^lizabeth, Nelson,
Alonzo, deceased, William, Jane, Hannah, deceased. Hansom, Alice,
Stephen A., John, Orin, deceased, Casie, Emy, deceased, and War-
ren. Nelson and Alonzo both enlisted in the army. The latter
joined the 12th 111. Cav., which went .with Gen. Banks on the Red
River expedition, where he contracted disease, which terminated
fatally at Baton Rouge.
Josiah Kefcham, farmer, was born in Warren Co., N. J., in 1838,
brought by his parents in emigration to Canton, 111., in 1853, fol-
lowed farming 3 miles east of Canton until 1802, when he entered
the 103d 111. Inf., and participated in the battles of A'icksburg,
Jackson, Mission Ridge, etc., and on the Atlantic, and "on to
Richmond." In 1866 he married Mary E. Addis, a native of Ful-
Co., and they now have 4 children, — Jennie, Richard, Eva and
Sherman. Josiah's father, George Ketcham, was also a native of
New Jersey, m.irried Jane Bannatta, of the same place, and had 10
children. He came to Canton in 1853, and after farming 3 miles
east of Canton until 1868, he sold the farm, moved into town, and
has since followed wagon-making.
Win. H. Lowe, farmer, was born in this t]). Aug. 7, 1842. His
father, John Lowe, was a native of Virginia, came to Fulton Co. in
1837, and settled on sec. 31, Orion tp., where Wm. H. was born;
married Isabelle liiley, a native of Ohio ; they were both mendiers
of the M. E. Church. In 1868 he moved to McDonough Co.,
where he died in 1877, and where ^Nlrs. L. is still living. They had
6 children. AVm. H. married Ann E. Br^ed, a native of this tp.,
and they have had 5 children, — Mary, Charles, John, Anna and
Jilanche. Mr. L. enlisted in the 55th 111., was in the ])rincipal en-
gagements in the Southwest, was also in the 15th Army Corps, with
Gen. Slierman in his march to the .sea, and during the war he was
wounded in the neck by a bullet.
Thoniati Manvcl was born in Wales in 1802, son of Thomas and
Catherine (Jenkins) Manuel ; obtained his education in Sunday-
school in his native country ; emigrated to America in 1854, and to
Fulton Co. in 18(55; by occupation he is a miner, but for 16 years
he kept hotel, the Kingston House 14 years of this time; at present
he is a farmer on sec. 27, Orion tji. In 1854 he married I^lizabeth
Jones. They have adopted a sou named William. Latter-Day
Saints.
HISTOEY OF FULTON COUNTY. 845
John Orendorff, farmer, was born in AVilks Co., Ga., passed much
of his early life in several of the Southern States, came to Illinois
in 1818, and in 1820 married Margaret Sale, related to the family of
Gen. Geo. Washington, and born in Wilks Co., N. C. ; April IG,
1825, he became a resident of tiiis tp., taking a farm which he oc-
cupied for 49 years. He died Jan. 28, 1876, his wife having died
July 19, 1867. He was Justice of the Peace many years, and sol-
emnized the first marriage in the county ; he also erected the first
saw-mill in the tp., and made the first brick; he erected the first
frame dwelling in Orion tp. He was a strong, industrious, honest,
social and philanthropic man. At a camp-meeting held by Peter
Cartwright near Canton in 1832, he and his wife were converted and
joined the M. E. Church, and remained consistent members of the
same until death. Their house was a home for the itinerant. They
had 5 sons and 2 daughters : one son died young, and all the other
children still live in this county, except the younger daughter, who
is married and lives in Fort Wayne, Ind. The elder daughter is the
wife of Wm. Parlin, of (Linton. Wm. J., the second son, is one of
the firm of Parlin cV' Orendortf. John W. is a farmer in Banner tp.
Henry H. is a dealer in agricultural implements at Canton. Wash-
ington S.'s sketch is next given. We give Mr. John Orendorlf's
portrait in connection with that of his son, Wm, J,
Washington Sale Orendorff, farmer, son of foregoing, was born in
Sangamon Co., 111., Aug. 20, 1822. In early day he was brought
to this tp., and he still lives on the old homestead, which now com-
prises a handsome brick residence and 200 acres of well cultivated
land.
Jonas Rawalf, farmer, was born in Northumberland Co., Pa., in
1804 : his father, John Rawalt, was also a native of Pennsylvania,
and his grandfatiior was a General in the Revolutionary war. Jonas
first came to Fulton Co. in 1829, and was one of the first County
Surveyors. He was married in Clarke Co., Ind., March 2.'>, 1825;
has had 10 children. John, the eldest son, died in tiie army ; Enoch
in the west part of Fulton Co.; Henry and Seth died in inl'ancy ;
James lives in Urbana, O. ; Mary married Wm. M. Ganson, Clerk
of the County Court for six years, and lives in Mason Co. ; Jicnjamin
lives in Nebraska; Elizabeth married a Mr. Whiteford and lives in
Mason Co. ; Milton lives on sec. 31, Orion tp. ; and Jonas R. resides
on sec. 29, same tp. The subject of this sketch was the first County
School Commissioner, Sn])ervisor fi)r the first ten years after town-
ship organization was adopted, and was the first member of the
Legislature from Fulton Co. He was also Major in the 7th 111.
Cav., and three of his sons were in the war, — John in the 56th Inf.,
Enoch in the 8th 111. Cav., and Bcnj. F. in the Minnesota Inf.
Jonas Rawalt is a Whig and Republican, and a New Jerusalem
Church man (" Swedenborgian "). His wife died Oct. 27, 1878.
, Five of the children have been educated at the Urbana (O.) Uni-
versity.
846 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
L. P. Sprague is engaged in farming upon section 36. P. O.,
Breed's.
Amos Weller was born in AVarren Co., N. J., Oct. 16, 1833, son
of Michael and Priscilla Lydia Weller, natives also of N. J. Occu-
pation, farmer; has been also bookkeeper. In 1857 he married
Martha Johnson, and their children are one boy and four girls, all
living. Democrat.
Jacob C. Wolf, farmer and stock raiser, sec. 17; P. O., Canton.
Mr. W. was born in Orion township on sec. 18, in 1839, and is the
son of Thomas F. and Joanna (Coleman) Wolf, He was united in
marriage with Helen Roe, of Peoria Co., 111. Five children have
been born to them, — E. Lellias, Thomas F., Jasper R., Ann Eliza
and Herman Leroy.
Jasper X. Wolf, farmer and stock- raiser, sec. 18; P. O. address,
Canton. Mr. W. is a member of an old and respected family of this
county. His parents, Thomas F. and Joanna (Coleman) Wolf, were
early settlers, to this county. Jasper N. was born in this township,
sec. 18, in 1850. In July, 1873, he took unto himself a wife in the
person of Susie Olive Wolf, of Canton. He was married in Ban-
ner township. Olive Zulnna and Lola Correna are their children.
Mr. W. has served in many of the local offices.
Jeremiah P. Ho//* was born in 1841, on sec. 18, Orion township,
Fulton county, 111. His parents are Thomas F. Wolf and Joanna
AVolf, nee Columan. ^Mr. W. has served his township as Supervisor
for 1 1 years and filled other positions. He is engaged in agricul-
tural pursuits upon sec. 18, where he owns a farm. He was mar-
ried to Emma Wise, of Canton township, and has a family of 4 chil-
dren,— Luella, Geo. AV., Bertha May and Willie Clifford. Both
himself and wife are members of the M. E. Church.
Thomas F. Wolf was born in Virginia in 1805, but his family
early moved into Ohio, where he was raised and lived till 1826, when
he started for Illinois. He met with Mr. John Coleman, who was
just moving liis family to Illinois, and ho came with him and soon
after reaching Fulton county he married Joanna Coleman, his eld-
est daughter, this being the first couple the late John Orendorff
married in Fulton county. His father, John Wolf, with his wife,
came to Fulton county in 1828, where he lived and died. Mrs. Wolf
is thought to have been the first ])erson to die in Orion township.
Mr. Thos. F. Wolf and wife were blessed with 14 children, 9 of
whom are living. The family are all married. Mr. W. was Justice
of the Peace for many years and held many other local offices. He
was a good farmer and very successful, but worked very hard in his
younger days and somewhat impaired his otherwise vigorous consti-
tution. He died in 1863. Of his sons we also speak. They
represent among the best farming interest of the county.
William Webster Wolf, farmer and stock-raiser, was born in Orion
township, this county, in 1852. His parents were Thomas F. and
Joanna (Coleman) Wolf. He was married in Feb., 1872, in Orion
HISTORY OF FUI/rON COUNTY. 847
township to Esther Kelly, a native of Ottawa county, O. They
have 2 chiklren : Alvin and eloseph. Mr. W. owns a farm on sec.
18, where he now resides. P. O., Canton.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following gentlemen have served the townshij) since its or-
ganization in the various official capacities named :
SUPERVISORS.
Jonas Rawalt l^nO-59 J.P.Kellv 1877
Zalmon A.Green lS(i(Mi^ Ziliiion A. Green 1878
A.Merrill 18()()-(i8 Jerry P. Wolf 1879
J. P. Wolf 1869-76
TOWN CLERKS.
Washington S. Orendorff 18."i9-60 W. S. Orondorff. 1870
Amos L. Breed 1861 Newton Bird 1871-73
AVilliam Rohey 1862-64 J. P.Kelly 1874-76
Reuben Laton 1866 J. N. Bird 1877
Lloyd Thorn 1868 Thomas M. Lee 1878
Edmond Johns 1869 John Henderson 1879
ASSESSORS.
Edgar H.Ross. 1859-60 John Fillin<iliam 1876
Joseph B. Whitmore 1861 Milton Vahdeventer 1877
Joseph B. Whitmore 1866-74 Amos Weller 1879
John Turner 1875
COLLECTORS.
Simon p. Whitmore 1859 Mark Bowton 1872
Thomas F. Wolf 1860-61 Henrv Sevbert 1873-75
S. P. Whitmore 1862-65 William turl 1876
William Kobey 1868 Michael Thorn 1877-78
James Kowe 1869 William Turl 1879
Thomas Roy 1870-71
PLEASANT TOWNSHIP.
This township is bounded on the north by Bcrnadotte, east by
Isabel, tlie south by Woodland and upon the west by Vermont.
The prairie and timber land is finely proportioned, and there are
some as finely imj)roved farms and as enterprising and wealthy agri-
culturists as can be found in the Military Tract. The entire town-
ship is underlaid with strata of good coal ; however the land is
good and produces abundant crops. There are but few coal mines
in operation in the township, and only enough coal is mined to sup-
ply home demand. There is no water course of any great size in the
township. A small stream called Otter creek rises in the township
and flows in a southeasterly direction and passes out at sec. 25.
AV'illiam Rolind was the first pioneer to establish himself in this
township. He was born in Kentucky in the year 1800, and in 1828
came to this county and erected a cabin upon sec. 3 of Pleasant tp.
The old cabin yet remains as a monument of the first labor per-
formed in this beautiful township. He had but nicely and snugly
arrano-ed his home here when James and Rilev lloland came to the
pleasant land and founded homes. Besides these there came in during,
the year 1829 Daniel Walters, D. Brown and a few other families,
and ere many years had rolled around quite a number of daring
pioneers were ensconced among the forest trees and tilling little
j)atehes they had cleared. It was some time before any ventured
out upon the open ])rairies. These vast unbroken wastes were then
thought useless. They were covered with a rank growth of grass
that woidd hide a man from view who was riding through it on
ht)rseback, so very tall did it grow. Then the prairie fires were
something to be dreaded. When a fire chanced to start in the
waving ocean of dried and inflammable material that formed a con-
tinuous mass over the wide-spreading prairies, it was a sure mes-
senger of death to every living creature in its relentless course, unless
the precaution had been j)reviously exercised to guard against it.
The roar of the fliames when driven by a strong wind could be heard
two or three miles away. The sight was beautiful, but the destruc-
tion it carried in its wake was ajipalling.
The first child born in the townsliip was C. Eoland. The first
person to die was Xancy Davis. Elder J. Logan preached the first
sermon in the cabin of ISIr. J. France. Alexander Shaffer was the
first Justice of the Peace. The first school-house was built in 1830,
nd the first school taught by Samuel Clayburg. Daniel Brown
HISTORY OF P^ULTOX COUNTY. 849
erected the first (rrist-mill upon Otter creek in 1832or^33. The
first church buiUlinij; was erected upon section 14 in 1842. The
congregation was organized by A. M. Smith. It has since gone
down.
Among the principal interests of the township outside of the towns,
aside from the farming and stock-raising, is the extensive nursery
carried on bv McCune & Co.
IPAVA.
Ipava is pleasantly situated, on section 6, which is in the north-
western corner of Pleasant township. It is a station on the C, B.
& Q. R. R., Rushville Branch, and is surrounded by a country which
is as fertile and beautiful as any in the Co. Indeed, the village was at
first called Pleasautville, owing to its pleasant location. It was
founded by John P]asley Sept. 15, 1846, and at present contains
about 800 inhabitants, who are noted for their peaceable, industri-
ous habits and enterprise, as well as for their good station in life.
Although Ipava is an agricultural town, its good society and in-
creasing trade constitute an index to the character of all the region
it represents. It is in fact one of the best business points in the
county. We venture here to particularize some of the prominent
features of the place.
First, the woolen mills, owned by Moorhouse ct Hess, re-modeled
by them from the old oil mills; then the bank ; the school-house,
built in 1876 at a cost of $3,800, and now in fine condition and
well patronized; two well regulated hotels; tlree churches; mer-
cantile establishments, by McCnne, Nathan Iliilit and others; two
drug-stores; three blacksmith shops; two wagon shops; two furni-
ture shops; one newspaper, the Stream of Li(/hf ; one flouring-mill,
owned by C. Trickey ; two public halls, — Zull's and Trickey's, etc.,
etc.
The Presbyterian church was built in 18o8 at a cost of $2,000;
Rev. E. Quillin is the present Pastor. The Christian church edi-
fice was built in 1854, by the Methodists, at a cost of $2,000. The
present Methodist church is a fine brick building, with basement,
erected in 18(57, at a cost of $12,()(H). Rev. A. liowers is the pres-
ent Pastor.
There are four practicing physicians in Ipava.
The prosperity of Ipava is clue in great part to the liberal ])ul)lic
spirit of J. L. McCune and X. Hulit, the principal merchants in
the place.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
We continue the history of the township and town by giving
much personal historv.
J. W. Bacon, physician and surgeon, was born in this State Aug.
13, 1838; at 17 to 20 years of age he attended college; taught
school; graduated at Rush Medical College, Chicago, in 1869; has
850 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
practiced medicine since 1864; took special lessons in the East on
diseases of the chest, under the celebrated Dr. Jonesnay of N. Y.;
married Elizabeth J. Bailey Dec. 10, 1863, who was born in Illi-
nois in 1841 ; they have 3 children, — Alta, Charles E. and Mattie.
He owns a valuable piece of land near Ipava.
./. ir. Ball, ])hysician and surgeon, Ipava, son of Elijah and Mary
Ball, was born in Morgan Co., O., Sept. 26, 1826; came to Illinois
in 1854. He commenced his medical studies in 1844 and the prac-
tice of medicine in 1849, in Ohio. He settled in Ipava in 1855,
where he has had a great run of practice. July 7, 1845, in Ohio,
he married Nancy Buckley, who was born in Ohio Dec. 9, 1824,
and they have had 10 children, 7 of whom are now living, — Caro-
line M. (married), Charles, a medical graduate, Dillon P., Sarah J.,
Amos, J, V. and Bertha. Dr. Ball's father was a first cousin of
George Washington. Freemason, Republican.
S. A. Boi/cr is engaged in farming on section 18. Postoffice
address, Ipava.
John N. Chicken, furniture dealer and manufacturer, Ipava, is a
son of Daniel and Charlotte Chicken, and was born in Ohio May
4, 1840. He began to learn his chosen trade at the age of 15, which
he has continued to follow since. He accompanied his father to this
State in 1856 and settled in Astoria, where he began the cabinet
business in 1858. He now keeps on hand a line line of furniture
and does a good business. He belongs to the M. E. Church, in
which he has been a licensed exhorter for 15 years. He has been
twice married, first time Sept. 25, 1861 ; and again, Sept. 26, 1874,
to Mary A. Moorhouse, a native of New Jersey. They have two
children, A^ernon and Jessie. By his former wife he had 4 children ;
Elmer, Mary, Sada, deceased, and Carrie E.
G. C. Cooper, sec. 23; farmer, owning 410 acres of fine land;
was born in Pennsylvania Sept. 1, 1818; came to this State in 1848,
settling in Fulton county; in 1851 he married Sarah D. Beadles,
who was born in Illinois, Feb. 24, 1833; they have had 9 children,
8 living at present, namely: Nancy J., wife of C. Crail, Lucinda,
Corinne, Sarah E., George, Lucy, Margaret, Anna and an infant,
deceased. Mr. Cooper as a farmer has risen from almost nothing to
affluence.
William H. Cooper, firmer, sec. 13; P. O., Ipava. Mr. C. was
reared upon a farm and chose that as a life occupation. He was born
in this State Nov. 17, 1839 ; was married Oct. 22, 1863, to Mary E.
Lindsey. Mrs. Cooper was born in Illinois Oct. 15, 1843. She
has become the mother of 3 children by her marriage with Mr. C,
only one of whom is now living, — Bertha E., born July 21, 1864.
Lerew was born Dec. 1, 1872, died Aug. 28, 1872, and Ira M.,
born June 15, 1875, and died Jan. 6, 1879. Mr. C. is a member of
the Christian Church.
Ct. 11". Cotoicilinan, farmer, sec. 15; P. O., Ipava; was born in
Ohio March 1, 1849; came to Illinois in 1866; was married in this
V«s»-.-
Siiii.
Of THE
IIMVFKSITY OF ILLINOIS.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 853
county in Sept., '73, to IMargnret Buck. She w:is born in this State
in '53. One child, Harry M., lias been born to tiieni. He was
born Aug. 27, '75. Mr. C.'s chances for an education were quite
limited, and he had no means with which to start in life, but by
hard labor and good business management has acquired a good farm.
*S'. Z. (b}i))ci/))ifni, fixrmer, sec. 16; P.O., Ipava ; is the son of
George and Emma Councilman, and was born in the Buckeye State
on the 29th of Oct., 1839. During the late war he enlisted and
went to do battle for his country. He served 18 months in Co. E,
43d Ohio Inf. Mr. C. was united in the holy bonds of matrimony
with Miss Elizabeth, daughter of Dr. Van Horn, of Ohio. Mrs.
C. was born in that State in '42. They have 5 children, — George
F., Benjamin M., Boly, Emma and Willie.
J. D. Craig, blacksmith, Ipava, was born in Pennsylvania Oct. 27,
'22 ; came to this State in '55 ; settled in Ipava in '77 ; June 4, '51,
he married Edith Easley , who was born in Ohio in '27, and they have 4
children, — Melville, Madra, Stickley and Elizabeth. Mr. Craig is
a skilled workman at his trade.
Jesse Cramblef, barber, Ipava, son of "William and Elizabeth C,
was born in Ohio July 2(5, '33; his father died when he was young,
and he first became engineer, and in 1862 enlisted in Co. D, 84th
111. Inf; served 3 years; was in battles of Perryville, Buzzard
Roost, Franklin, Xashville and many others; was married in Ohio
Oct. 6, '52, to Elizabeth Chicken, who was born in Ohio Nov. 24,
1834.
John Danner, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 29 ; owns 268 acres of
land, and a dwelling which cost §2,000; was born in York county,
Pa., April 5, '39 ; his mother died when he was small, and his father
emigrated with him to this State in 1850; in 1860 he married ^la-
tilda Trone, who was born in Pennsylvania in 1841, and they are
the parents of 6 children, 4 of whom are living, — Jesse, Joseph,
George, Charles ; deceased, — Littie and Willie.
Daniel David, farmer. Mr. D. owns a fine farm adjoining the
town of Ipava, and has his residence inside of the corporation. He
was born in Ohio April 20, '26, and has followed farming all his life.
He came to this State with his father who located in this countv in
1833, being but 7 years old at the time. In 1849 he was married
to Winifred Baker, who was born in 1833. She has borne him 6
children, 5 of whom are living: Miner, Reese, Francis M., Melinda
and Pollen. Laura E. is deceased.
,/. ir. D ivid, Police Magistrate, Ipava, was born in this town in
Oct. 30, 1846. He began active life clerking in a dry-goods store,
which occupation he followed for 10 or 12 years. He was united in
marriage April 16, 1873, with Ella J. Coley. She was born in
Ohio Oct. 6, '49. The union has been blessed with 3 children, —
Vida, born Nov. 11, '74; Lloyd, born Nov. 25, '76, and Mable,
born August 16, '78. Besides the office he holds at present Mr. D.
has held the office of Town Clerk.
50
854 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
E.H.DicJiI; P. O., Sumnuim ; born in Bedfttrd couiify, Penn.,
^lay 17, '48 ; enii^riited to Fulton county, Aj)!'!! 17, 'Oo ; wa.s teacher
and farm nianag'crofSt. Paul's Soldiers' (Orphan Home, Butler, Penn.,
from Sept. 1, 1873 to Sei)t. 15, 1875; also, editor and proj)rietor of
Blairstown (Iowa) Independc ni iXwYm^r^ the Centennial antl presidential
campaign of 1876; engaged at teacliing and farming at j)resent ; is
an active member of the A. O. U. \V. and A. F. ami A. M.
JoJin C. Uobhiiis, retired farmer, son of Hoi)crt P. and Catharine
A., was born in Ohio March 27, '11 ; Capt. of militia in Ohio ; came to
Illinois in 18-'>6and settled in this county; has been School Trustee
and Director and Township Assessor, and connected with the U. G.
R. R. In Ohio, in 1834, he married Hannali A. Miller, who was a
native of that State. They have had 8 children ; the 4 boys who
are living are Robert L., John C, Abler X. and David T. Mr. D.
had 4 sons in the late war, and lost 2 of them there. He resides in
Ipava.
Joseph Elliott, sec. 34; farmer; P. O. Summum ; born Nov. 16,
1844; in 1864 he enlisted in Co. D, 151st 111. Inf., and served 12
months; married in this county Feb. 14, 1870, ^'irginia Shelly,
who was born in Virginia in 1848, and they are the parents of 3
children, — Lillie, Maggie and Adda. Mr. E.'s father was a native
of New York and his mother of Ohio: wife's parent's were natives
of Virginia. He owns 240 acres of land.
/o/i;i J^rance, farmer, sec. 29 ; born in Ohio May 10,1807; has
always been a farmer; came to this county in 1831, with no means,
but has acquired a competence. He lirst married in Ohio, in 1825,
choosing Malina Cogan, also a native of Ohio, born in 1816; they
had 9 children ; 7 are living. In 1869 he married Lucy Brown.
Mr. F. was in the Black Hawk war.
Alexander Freemrui, farmer, sec. 36 ; P. O., Summum ; was born
in Oneida Co., New York, Feb. 6, 1808, son of liirhard W. and
Abigail (Bowers), the former a native of New Hampshire and the
latter of Connecticut. \\'hen 2 years of age he was brought with
the family in emigration to Ohio, where he remained on a farm
until 28 years of age, when he came with his father to Isabel town-
ship, this county ; followed carpentering ibr about 5 years, then re-
turned to farming. In 18.30 he built a saw and flourinji-mill on
Spoon river; was in the Black Hawk war; in Lewistown, May 7,
1829, he married Mary Benson, who was born in Livingston Co.,
N. Y., Jan. 11, 1814, and they are the j)arents of 7 children, 4 of
whom are living; Marille C, who married A. E. Lane; Malvina,
who married A. C. Hatch; Lorin, who died in the army; Harriet,
who also married A. Y.. Lan(% and is deceased; William A., Dexter
and Mary L., who married John C. Moore, and is deceased.
John Freiley, farmer, sec. 27 ; P. O., Summum. Until he reached
his majority Mr. F. passed his life upon a farm, since which time
he followed first one thing and then another until 9 years ago, when
he again returned to farming. After leaving the farm he first worked
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 855
in a saw-mill for a time, then onijagod in the dry -goods business for
several years, then returned to the saw-mill business. lie eame to
this State in 1834, and is the present Assessor for Pleasant town-
ship. In July, 1837, he was married to Mary Lane, who was born
in Ohio August 18, 1858. There has been a family of 9 ehildren
born to them, 7 of whom are living, — Edgar, Oscar, Grace, Flora,
Jason, Lois, Zenas, Fannie and Ira.
Wiirudii J. GiUdt, physician and surgeon, is a son of Samuel and
Juda Gillett, and is a native of this State, and his birth occurred
July 23, '41. The Doctor began the study of medicine in 18G1
under the instruction of a brother in C^hicago. He then read with
Dr. Durant some 10 months, after which he attended lectures at the
Iowa Medical Institute and graduated in 1868. He came to this
county in 1865 and began tiie ])ractice of his profession in Ipava in
1871, where he has enjoyed a liberal practice since and has been em-
inentlv successful. The Doctor also j»;raduated from the St. Louis
Medical College. On the 14th of June, '65, he was married to
Martha E. Mitchell, a native of Illinois, in 1847. They have had
a family of 6 children born to them, 5 of whom are living, — Emma,
AVillie F., Georgia A., Keitha, Mattie, deceased, and an infant. Dr.
G. belongs b(^th to the Masonic; and Odd Fellows orders and is a
member of the Christian Church. In 1861 he enlisted in Co. E,
17th 111. Inf , and served 3 vears.
Xdfhan Hiilif, merchant, Ipava, was born in Ohio in 1836, reared
on a farm, well educated, clerked in a store, came to this State in
1857, commenced mercantile business in Ipava in 1869, and has
prospered well. In 1859 he married Cassandra Wysong, born in
Ohio in 1839. Their three children are Marv, Laura and Stanlev.
Mr. HuHl carries S6,()00 Morth of stock in general merchandise,
and also deals in produce. We give his portrait elsewhere in this
volume.
Mdtthew Kingerj/, farmer and stock-dealer, sec. 36; P. O., Sum-
mum; was born in Indiana Feb. 19, '21, son of Tobias and Mary
(Onion) Kingery. Mr. Kingery has always been an industrious
farmer, commenced with but little means and now has a comfortable
home, the farm consisting of 175 acres in good cultivation. He
emigrated to Illinois with his mother in 1837, his fither having
previously died.
Sfephoi Kinsci/, farmer, sec. 6 ; P. O., Ipava. To Richard and
Sarah Kinsey, while residents of Ohio there was born a son upon
the 1st of Nov., '21, whom they christened Stephen, the subject of
this sketch. Until he reached his majority he passed life upon the
farm, at which time he began the teaching of school and has taught
steadily for about 8 years. He came to this township in 1842, and
has held many local offices of the township; was married in 1848
to Phoebe Bogue, who was born in Ohio in 1828. They have 4
children living of a family of 8 born to them, — Daniel, Stewart,
Eli and Joel, deceased, Jesse, Charles, Harry and Mary.
856 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Solomon 7vb.s7, proprietor of the Kost House, Ipava. !Mr. K. is
one of the most genial of landlords and for many years the Kost
Hftuse has borne a good reputation. He was born in Pennsylvania
Nov. 30, '27. At the age of 22 he learned the harness-making
trade and continued to follow it at intervals until a few years ago.
He came to the State in '47 and settled in this county. In July,
'59, he was married to ^lartha M. Cheny, a native of A^ir^inia, and
born in 1832. They have a family of 3 children : William, Horace
C. and Ora.
John Laci/, farmer, sec. 4 ; P. O., Ipava. Mr. L. is one of the
largest agriculturists in the county, owning GOO acres of fine farm
land, worth SoOper acre. He was born in Xew York Jan. 28, 1804.
He was reared upon a farm, and has continued to follow the life of
a farmer, at which he has been very successful. He came to this
county in 1837 where he has since resided. He was married in
New York to Chloe Herd, who was born in that State in 1806.
This union has resulted in the birth of 9 children, 5 of whom are
living: Lyman, now Circuit Judge; Harriet, wife of Charley John-
son; Susan, wife of E. Porter, Table Grove; John and Mary. Mr.
L. has held the office of Supervisor. He is one of the pioneers of
this county and has done his part toward changing it from a wild
waste to a fruitful field.
/. 31. Landis, of the firm of Martin & Landis, grocers, Ipava,
was born in Va., Sept. 26, 1843; attended college 2 years; came to
this State in 1855, spent 3 years in McLean Co., then 8 years in
Ohio, then 3 years in Iowa, and in 1876 settled in Ipava, where he
followed fruit-packing 2 years; but in 1877 he commenced the gro-
cery business, which he has since continued. He edited the Ashland
Union 4 years, and the Dallas County (Iowa) Xrirs 2 years ; has
been Town Clerk and member of Town Board ; is a R. A. Mason ;
married Miss Pancoast in Ya., Mar. 10, 1868, who was a native of
Ohio, born in 1841 ; have had 3 children, 2 living, — Sada A., born
Jan. 15, 1871 ; Margaret, July 7, 1873; James W.
-V. D. Lindscif, farmer, sec. 16; P. O., Ipava; born in this State
Jan. 12, 1846, and reared on a farm, where educational opportuni-
ties were limited, but is able to calculate for himself; married
Nancy J. Hughes in Feb., 1865, also a native of this State, born
Jan., 1846, and they have 6 children, — Lowrada, Stephen E., Chas.,
Aha AL, Mary and Nathan D. Mr. L.'s father was a native of
Ohio and came to Illinois in an early day.
William A. Littleton, retired farmer. This gentleman was born in
the Buckeye State Dec. 7, 1827, and is the son of Fielden and
Anna Littleton. He has been engaged in agricultural pursuits all
of his life until the last 8 years. He came to this State with his
father in 1831 and located in Fulton Co. He moved to Missouri
in 1856 and remained there until 1865 engaged in herding cattle.
He then returned to this State. He was married in 1848 to Amanda
J. Lindsev. Mrs. L. was born iu Ohio in 1830. She has borne 5
*i-
m^i-
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a.
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15
Of THE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 859
children, 3 of whom arc living, — Arthur J., Susannah E., the wife
of N. T. Cooper, and Luella. Mr. L. began life with but little
property, but by industry and economy has acquired a good prop-
erty. He is a member of the Christian Church.
Win. Mafhcicn, retired former, P. O., Ipava ; was born in Mary-
land Sept. 2, 1808, son of Charles and Agnes M. ; came to this State
in 1843; was married in Pennsylvania to Mary Hannum, a native
of that State; they have had 16 children, 8 of whom are alive.
Mr. M. had 3 sons in the late war at one time ; one died at Nash-
ville. Mr. Mathews has always been a farmer during active life.
/. H. Mii.vwell, farmer, sec. 6 ; P. O., Ipava ; was born in Ches-
ter Co., Pa., Fel). 17, 1817; passed his boyhood days upon a farm
until he was 19 years of age, when he went to Philadelphia and
learned the plastering trade, which he followed at intervals. He
came to this State and settled u|»on his present farm in 1853. Mr.
M. has also learned the art of working in what is called betony, by
which process he has made many fine walks and pavements. He
has been three times married : first in Ohio to Jane Campbell in
1840. His present wife is Elyddia Brown, who was born in Ohio.
Joseph Mdi/all, insurance agent, son of James and Eliza (Shields),
was born in Indiana Oct. 12, 1834; enlisted in 18(jl in Co. C, 11th
111. Cav., and served 7 months; came to this State in 1862; Sept.
29, '64, married Alia Doisey, who was born in Virginia about 1843;
they have had 8 children, 7 of whom are living, — NVillard L., Dessa
S., Atfa v., Arta M., Emanuel R., Emues C, Sada E. and Lima
(dec). Christian Church.
(S'. \V. McCas/in, merchant, Ipava. ^Ir. McC. carries a large
and well-selected stock of groceries and transacts a good business.
He was born in Ohio March 6, '28 ; passed his boyhood upon a
farm, and at the age of 16 began to learn the carpenter's trade,
which he continued to follow until 1876, when he came to Ipava
and embarked in the mercantile trade. He enlisted in the late war
in Co. H, 25th Ohio Inf , and served 2 years as Sergeant. He par-
ticipated in several hard-lbught battles while in that company, and
in 1864 enlisted in Co. D, 181st Ohio Inf, and was promoted to
1st Lieutenant. He came to Ipava in 1870; was married May 9,
'50, in the Buckeye State, to Mary Brunker, who was l)orn in tiiat
State Xov. 6, '28. Laura E. and Jesse are their children.
/. L. McCane, banker and merchant, was born April 9, '34, in
in Muskingum Co., O. ; his ])arents emigrated with him to Fulton
county in 1837, settling near Lewistown ; at the age of 15 he enter-
ed the store of Jieadles & Evans and worked tliere 2 years ; then
his father sent him to Muskingum College, Ohio, 1 year; clerked
for several firms in Lewistown, commanding the highest wages; re-
• turned to .the college with the intention of finishing his scientific
course, which he would have done in 10 months more, but had to
come back and take charge of his father's business; since 1856 he
has followed the dry -goods trade in Ipava; also dealt in grain and
860 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
lumber; besides, he has a good nursen' in Buckheart tp. and is con-
nected with a bank in Ipava, established in 1876 ; he also deals in
agricultural implements. Mr. McCune began in life with very lit-
tle, but by energy and fair dealing he has continued to prosper
more and more until the present time. At first he vowed to give
10 per cent, of his income to benevolent purposes until he was worth
S20,000, and then 15 per cent. He has kept his vow. For 7 years
he has been Superintendent of the Sunday School. Aug. 28, '60,
he married Martha E., daughter of Rev. E. Quillin, Pastor of the
Presbyterian Church at Ipava. She was born July 9, '38, in Vir-
ginia. They have 6 children, — Henry G., Myron M., Mary E.,
Adelaide, Anna B. and James H. Mr. McCune's father was born
in 1804 in W. Pa., and is now Probate Judge of Grundy Co., Mo.
His mother's maiden name was Eliza Long, daughter of George
Long, a native of Pennsylvania. Mr. McC. is a member of the
Presbyterian Church. The portrait of Mr. McCune and Avife may
be found in this volume.
/. X. McLaren, blacksmith, was born in Illinois May 17, 1845;
farmed until 18 years of age, since which time he has followed
blacksmithing; came to Ipava in 1873; has been Constable two
terms, member of the Town Board one term; in 1870, married
Jennie Daw, who was born in 1851 ; has 3 children, 2 now living, —
Daisy B. and Frank X. Enlisted in 1^63, in Co. C, 151st 111. Inf.,
and served one year. He is an Odd Fellow and a member of the
Chri^tiau Church.
Horace 3Ic Mullen is engaged in agricultural pursuits on the south-
west quarter of section 25, P. O., Otto.
William Moorhouse, partner of Mr. Hess in the Ipava Fulling
Mills. In this factory are employed 15 hands, and a good business
is carried on. He was born in Pennsylvania Aug. 6, 1835 ; came to
this State in 1867 and located in Ipava, and soon embarked in his
present business. He is a thorough business man and owns one-
third interest in the Canton Woolen Mills. His parents were
natives of England, and his wife, Margaret Johnson, whom he
married in New Jersey in 1859, was born in that State in 1839.
Thev have a familv of 3 children : Marv L., Anna E., and
AVilliam H.
Eli Paull, farmer, P. O., Ipava. The subject of this sketch is a
son of James and Emily Paull, and was born in Ohio July 24,
1826. The (tpportunities enjoyed for an education were indeed
meager. He came to this State and county in 1840, and has made
this his home since. He has been twice married : first in Indiana
in 1861, and in 1876 he was united in marriage with ^lartha E.
Patterson, who was born in this State Sept. 4, 1844. They have
one child. Bv his former wife he had a familv of 3 children :*
Harry, Alva H., and Harriet E.
Robert Paull was born in Va. Aug. 9, 1810; reared on a farm;
arrived in this State Nov. 20, 1839; has been clerk in the County
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 861
Clerk's office and Justice of the Peace for many years, — the latte
office ever since 1842; has been County Treasurer 5 years ; mar
riod Harriet Bidwell Sept. 28, 1886, who was born in Vt. Oct. 9,
1817, and they have had 9 children, 7 of nhom are living, — Frank,
Mary, Estella, Sarah, Emma, Amelia and Mary; deceased — Ella
and William.
William Paull, farmer, sec. 18, Pleasant township. Mr. P. was
born in Ohio Nov. 6, 1824; came to Illinois in 1848, and located
in this county. The following year he was united in marriage with
Rachel Carv, who was born in Kentuckv in 1832. There were
born to them 7 children, of whom Charley, James, Alice, Ida and
William are living. Miranda and Mary E. are deceased.
Henri/ Paret/, hardware merchant, Ipava, is a native of the Eng-
lish Isle and was born Feb. 15, 1820. He followed the occupation
of farming until he was 27 years of age when he learned the car-
penter's trade, and which he followed at intervals until 1865, when
he embarked in the hardware business at Ipava. For a time he
was engaged in the manufacture of steam engines. He was united
in marriage with Mary Tratt, who was also born in England.
They have a family of 2 children : Sarah A. and Alice M.
Samuel Porter, agriculturist, sec. 22 ; P. O., Ipava. Mr. P. was
born in Ireland Sept. 28, 1840; crossed the Atlantic and came to
America with his father in 1849. His father located in Ohio. In
1857 Stimuel came to Fulton county and has made this his
home since. He was reared upon the farm and has adopted that as
a life profession. He has held several of the local offices of the
township. June 20, 1860, he was married to Mary M. Gibson,
who is a native of Illinois, having been born in this State
in 184.3. They are the j^arents of 8 children, 6 of whom are living:
Elmer, Ada E., Choel B., Ilillie A., Otis, G. H. Those deceased
are Millie and Anna.
L. Pratt, retired farmer, Ipava, was born in Vermont April 27,
1798; had a fair education; taught school about 25 terms of 6
months each; came to Illinois in 1854; in 1824 married Sarah
McMoinz; they had 11 children, 8 of whom are living; in 1859 he
married Minerva Potter, who Mas born in New York in 1811.
H. C. Pratt, farmer and stock dealer, sec. 16 ; P. O., Ipava ; born
in Brown county, O., May 1, 1844; came to this State in 1850, and
to this countv in 1858 and settled where he now resides; enlisted in
Co. B, 84th 111. Inf Vol., in 1862, and served 2 years and 10 months ;
was in the battle of Perryville and several other hard-fought battles ;
married Laura A. Hannah in 1866, who was born in Kentucky in
1848 : they have 4 children, — Charles E., Lanson, James and Frank.
Pev. E. Qnilli)i, Minister of the Presbyterian Church, son of
Jas. and Martha Quillin, was born in Virginia March 30, 1808. He
was reared upon a farm, and his j)arents were poor; hence his chances
for an early education were very limited. After he reached his ma-
jority he attended Greenville College 2 years and attended Prince-
862 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
ton Seminary 3 years. Ho began in the ministry in 1837. During
that Year he was married to Mary E. Hedj^cs, who was born in New
Jersey in Aug., 1808. They are the parents of o children : Martha
E., wife of J. L. MeCune, of Ipava ; Laura E., Mary E., J. M. and
Anna B. Asa minister Rev. Q. possesses considerable ability and
exerts great influence for good. We give his portrait.
/. M. Rodman, station agent and operator, I]>ava, is a son of
Samuel and Mary R., born in I^enn. Aug. 30, 1844; came to this
State in 1865, settling in Adams Co.; came to Ipava in 1869;
clerked in dry -goods store; was switchman at de]>ot ; commenced
as telegraph operator in 1866; has been Village Trustee; in 1864
married Mary Hormick, who also was born in Pennsylvania; Min-
nie R. is their only child, born, June 12, 1865.
Leicis Bouch was born in Maryland June 9, 1833; came to Illi-
nois in 1864; first married Tabitha Smith, in 1868, who was born
in this State in 1841 ; they had 4 children, — Lewis E., Thomas,
Nathaniel H. and Salina (dec.) ; then married Nancy Weese in
1866, Avho was born in Illinois in 1845. Mr. Rouch has always
been a farmer, and now owns 80 acres of land worth $50 an acre.
Reformed Church. P. O., Duncan's Mills.
Kinzie Shields, farmer, sec. 36; was born in this county May 4,
1844, son of Kinzie and Katie Shields, natives of Indiana ; enlisted
in 1861 in Co. H, 3d 111. Cav., served 3 years; was in the battles
of Vicksburg, Perryville, Mission Ridge, etc. ; in 1863 he re-en-
listed in Co. B, same regiment, and served one year; was on the
plains to fight Indians. Oct. 25, 1867, he married Susan Kiugery,
who was born in this county in 1851 ; their 5 children are Laura,
Etta Guy, Hattie V., Lucy J. and Hiram. Member of the Chris-
tian Church.
G. W. T. Smith was born in Tennessee Oct. 19, 1821, son of
Arthur and Christina Smith; has always followed farming; came
to this State in 1834, settling in Pleasant tp. ; Sept. 7, 1844, he
married Mary A. Bonnel, who was born in Indiana Dec. 3, 1839,
and they have had 7 children, 4 of whom are living, — Christina,
Mary J., Samuel, Henrietta: 3 children died in infancy. Mr.
Smith is a well-to-do farmer on sec. 12. Methodist. P. O., Ipava.
Robert Tratt, of Pavey <k Tratt, dealers in hardware, Ipava.
Mr. T. was born in England in May, 183(5, and crossed the Atlantic
for America in 1851, and first stop])ed in New York, where he re-
mained till 1857, and in 1863 located in Ipava and engaged in the
hardware trade, and at present carries §6,000 worth of stock. May
16, ^^'ti], he was married to Carrie E. Stafford, mIio is a native of
Eugland, having been born in that country in 1846. There have
been 2 children born to them, John W., deceased, and Freddie.
Mr. T. has been President of the Town Board and held other local
offices.
JoJin 1 a »r//*», farmer, sec. 20; 200 acres; P. O., Ipava; Demo-
crat. Mr. V. was born in Virginia Oct. 2, '37 ; son of Joseph and
HISTORY OP FULTON COUNTY. 863
Louisa Vaughn; emigrated in 1840 to the place where he still re-
sides. Has been Road Commissioner two terms and School Direc-
tor 7 years. In 1857, in this State, he married Rebecca France,
who was born in Illinois in July, '43, and they are the parents of 8
children, 6 now living, — George M., Mary E., Amanda J,, Lillie
A. D., Elizabeth and Fanny ; deceased, — Sarah and Charley.
Martin Weaver, farmer, sec. 20 ; P. O., Ipava. Mr. W. was born
in Germany May 15, '17, where he spent about one-half century of
his life. In 1863 he crossed the Atlantic and came to America and
located in Fulton county. He came without means, but has accu-
mulated a nice farm property upan which he doubtless will pass the
remainder of his life. His wife, Anna M. Shrader, was also born
in Germany. They are the parents of 7 children, of whom one,
Conrad, is deceased. Those living are Harmon, George, Henry,
Maggie, Nicholas and Mary A. Both Mr. and Mrs. W. are mem-
bers of the Diinkard Church.
John J. Weese, farmer, sec. 32 ; 65 acres ; P. O., Summum ; was
born in Tennessee Nov. 14, '30, son of W. F. and Nancy Weese,
both natives of Tennessee; in '43 came to this county with an ox
team; married here in '59, Miss Clara I. , who was born in
this county in '43; they are the parents of 9 children, — May E.,
Wilson P., William J., John E., James A., Nancy J., Cary E.,
Joseph F. and Everett E.
Pleasant Weese, sec. 28; P. O., Summum; came with his father
to this State in '42 ; in '64 he married Mary J. France, who was
born in Illinois in '46; they have hud 7 children, 3 of whom are
living, — Oliver P., Emma J. and Archie; deceased — Lenna, Willie,
Laura and Henry. Mr. Weese commenced with little, but is now
in comfortable circumstances.
H. H. Wileman, farmer, son of Jesse and Elyddia Wileman, was
born in Ohio April 18, '26; came to this State with his father in
1840, when they had but little means, but has since accumulated a
handsome amount of property. Nov. 25, '51, he married Mary
Zull, who was born in Ohio in 1832; they have had 11 children,
9 of whom are living, — Laura, Angeline, Charles, Caruthers, Ed-
ward, Jesse, Ruth A., William and Cora B, and two infants de-
ceased.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a full and complete list of the Supervisors,
Clerks, Assessors and Collectors serving in this township since its
organization :
SUPERVISORS.
J.P.Montgomery 18.i0-52 W.M.Marshall 180.']
Jolin Lacy 18o3-54 A. H.Smith lS(i4-65
Janu'8 xMcCune 18")5 S. P. Marshall 18(i6
J. P. Mont>romery 1850-57 Soloiinui Strouse 1807
James Lovcll 1858 S. P. .Marsiiall 18<i8
William Phelps 1859 E. B.il)cock 18)9-71
James Montgomery 1800 S. P. Marshall 1872-79
William liubcock 1801-02
864
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
TOWN' CLERKS.
R. C. Rowley 1850-51
Steplien Kinsev 1852
J P. MontfTomery 1853-54
Stephen Kinsey 1855-56
Chas. Babcni-k 1857
Stephen Kinsev 1858-60
Al)ner Beale....' 1861-(i3
0. Garwood 1864-65
Samuel Porter 1866
J. M. Isabel 1867
S. W. Durham 1868-69
P. A. R:iv 1870-72
C. M. Salzenstein 1873
Robert Paul) 1874-75
S. E. Carlin 1876
J. \V. Lamlis 1877-78
J. D. Gamble 1879
ASSESSORS.
Joseph Marshall 1850
J iseph Pitull 1851
William David 1852
W. E. ilontjromerv 1853
Henry Hilton .*. 1854
Houston Ramsey 1855
John Lacy 1856-57
Houston Ramsev 1858-59
Henrv Babcoek " 1860
H. a' Babcock 1861
C. E. Babcoek 1862
S. P. Marshall 1863
Amos Bricker 1864
Henrv Babcock 1865
Lemuel Lindsey 1866
John Shuman 1867-71
William Babcock 1872-73
I. M. Van Horn 1874-75
John Freilev 1876-77
Ohed Garwood 1878
JohnFreiley 1879
COLLECTORS.
S. A. Rowlev 1850
Joseph Pauil 1851
V. M. Grewell 1852
James Lovell 1853
Hosea Parvin 1854
Y. M. Grewell 1855
Houston Ramsey 18-^6
J. P. Farquar 1857
S. P. Marshall 1858
AVilliam David 1859
Solomon Strouse 1860
A. H. Smith 1861
S. }'. Marshall 1862
H. P. Kelley 1863
Joseph Beale 1864
Abraham Roberts 1865
C. E. Johnson 1866
01)ed Garwood 1867
L. B. Lindsev 1868
J. H. Smith.." 1869
William Lovell 1870
J. M. Isabel 1871
Robert PauU 1872
Jacob Hart 1873
Wm. Walter 1874
John Freiley 1875
Obeil Garwood 1876
San)uel Porter 1877
Benj. Bidwell 1878
Abram Roberts 1879
^fe.
S\
PUTMAN TOWNSHIP.
Of the 22,232 acres of land in Putman township, 9,397 are under
cultivation. The total assessed vakiation of the land in the town-
ship is ^329,084. There are 789 horses, 1,559 cattle, 426 sheep,
and 2,382 hogs in the township. It is a good agricultural township
and is crossed by the T., P. & W. and C, B. & Q. Railroads, which
afford excellent transportation facilities to market the produce raised
and the coal mined.
The township is well covered with timber and must have been pic-
turesque and romantic in its natural condition. Then, doubtless,
the points of timber and the valleys must have been attractive re-
sorts for the red man. Even now, when dotted over with fields and
houses and barns and lowing herds, its stillness broken by the
rumbling of long, heavily-ladened trains of steam-drawn cars, one
cannot help but admire the beauty of the scenery as presented by
these groves.
The township received its name in honor of its first settler, Mr.
Reading Putman, who located upon the southeast quarter of sec. 2
in 1823. Embracing a good deal of timber land, as this township
did, it soon attracted a liberal share of immigration, as it is a fact
that all the pioneers sought the timber districts in which to locate
their c aims, believing that it would be easier to make farms by
grubbing and clearing the lands, than it would be to reduce prairie
land to farm tillage and remunerative returns. But as time ad-
vanced, and the later settlers were forced out upon the prairies and
began to experiment upon them, the first settlers were made to real-
ize that thev had made a somewhat costlv mistake bv selectino- tim-
bered claims. They had been pitching brawn and muscle against
nature; for all that the prairies needed was to be tickled with the
plow to make them yield living crops the first year and heavy, re-
munerative returns the second.
Not many years rolled by after Mr. Putman had erected his cabin
on section 2, before Stephen Strickland, John Holcomb, William
Pearson, Hugh and Absalom Maxwell, Stephen Eveland, Seth Hil-
ton, Asel T. Ball, Salmon Sherwood, David Haacke, Elijah and
William Putman, Asa and Samuel Mallory, Hi rah Saunders, An-
drew Laswell and Levi Millard came in and improved farms.
Messrs. Strickland, Holcomb and Pearson were all Regular, or
" Hard-shell," Baptist ministers.
866 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Harvey L. Ross relates that he partook of bear meat at Andrew
Laswell's which Mr. L. had killed in his neighborhood.
The first grist-mill was built by Jacob Ellis on Big creek, upon
sec. 35, in 1824. This was the first mill in Fulton county. Mr.
Ellis also had a cotton-gin here. Much of this article was culti-
vated in this countv at an earlv dav. The first marria";e was sol-
emnized Feb. 20, 1825, the contracting parties being Asel T. Bali
and Miss Rebecca Ellis. Seth Hilton was the first Justice of the
Peace. He subsequently moved into Liverpool tOM'nship and be-
came one of its first settlers. The first school Avas taught bv Wm.
Putiuan in a small log cabin on sec. 11. The first church was
built at Ceuterville (now Cuba) in 1840, by a congregation of the
Christian Church. It passed out of their hands and is now owned
by the ^lethodist people.
CUBA.
This town is situated upon the northwest quarter of section 20,
and is one of the oldest towns of the county. It is very pleasantly
situated in the midst of a fine agricultural district, and is one of the
leading places of the county at which coal is mined. Large quanti-
ties of coal are shipped from Cuba, and the mines situated northwest
of the village are quite extensive. A small railway track is laid
from the mines to the depot of the T., P. & W. Ry., a distance of
over a mile. Coal is hauled in small cars by horses to the depot.
Cuba is a good business point and contains several good stores,
churches, school-houses, and many pleasant residences. In 1834
Ephraim Brown laid out a little town upon the northwest quarter
of sec. 20 which he christened Middletown. Two years afterwards
(Nov. 16, 1836) Joel Solomon, D. W. Vittum, Samuel Brooks and
T. B. Coggswell, platted another town upon this section and gave it
the name of Centerville. Two towns upon one quarter-section was
too much, so they were consolidated and named Cuba. Cuba is
on the line of the Toledo, Peoria ct Warsaw Ry., and about an equal
distance from Canton and Lewistown. It is also on the line oi the
Fulton Countv Narrow-Gaug-e Rv., which runs from Fairview to
Havana. Grading is now (fall of 1879) progressing finely upon this
line.
CIVER.
Civer is a small station on the line of the T., P. & W. Ry. It is
located on the northeast (piarter of sec. 12, and about 7 miles from
Cuba. There is a dej)ot building, postoffice, store, shop, etc., here,
but its close proximity to Canton will prevent it from becoming any
great commercial center, or ever of local importance, although situ-
ated in the midst of a fine farming district.
':':' i^^^-.
''=^^,-
<
OF THE
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 869
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
We append as part of the history of the town and township :
Silas J. Banfz. This gentleman lives npon sec. 12; P. O., Civer.
Levi Berarc], farmer, sec. 2; P. ()., Cul)a. licvi is a son of Jacob
and Anna (Bnckley) Bevard ; was born in Licking connly, O., in
1825. Eleven years later he was brought to this county. Mr. B.
had very meager opjiortunities to gain an education. He used to
work out by the month. He remembers working for Isaac Dowell
at $7 per month, and also for A. C. Thomas at same figures. He
now owns 240 acres of good land. He was married in the J^uckeye
State to Miss Bettie Newel, who has borne him 5 children. Susan,
John and Jasper are living: one girl and one boy deceased.
John Bldchihjf, farmer, car])enter, proprietor of a saw-mill, sec.
35; P. O., Lewistown ; was born in Licking Co., C, Feb. 18, 1829,
and is the son of John and Polly (Golden) Blackaby. Mr. B. came
to the county in 1854 and has since lived within 3 miles from where
he does now. He built his saw-mill in May, 185(i, and ran it suc-
cessfully for 15 years. He now owns 889 acres of land and has im-
proved all of his farm except ()0 acres. In 1857, Ai)ril !), in Mc-
Donough Co., he was married to Sarah Brown, Mho was born Nov.
26, 1 836. Their children number 7, — Luella May, Mary E., Velma,
Estella, John T., Andrew P]dson, David Dayton, and one deceased.
Jo/i)t Bolton, merchant, Cuba. Mr. B. was born in England Feb.
19, '05, and is of Scotch and English descent, his mother being a
native of Scotland and his father of England. He came to this
county in 1844. He attended the connnon schools, and ])r('])ared
himself for the ministry and has preached the Gosjud for 40 years,
17 years in England. He is at ])resent conducting a boot and shoe
and general store. He is a member of the M. E. Church. In 1826,
while in England, he married Margaret Brown. They have 4 sons
and daughters living and all married, out of a family ol'io children
born to them.
George H. Boynton, commercial traveler, was born in Fulton Co.
in 1845, and is the son of Albert and Nancy Boynton. Mr. B. at-
tended the common schools, Buffalo ]iul)lic schools and Brvant &
Stratton's Commercial CoHege, Chicago. July 6, '62, he enlisted in
17th U. S. Inf, regular service, and took part in 1(5 battles, and
was taken prisoner at Peable's farm. He was united in marriage
with Sarah Pising July 11, 1877. They reside in Chicago.
C. F. Bump, farmer, sec. 14; P. ()., Civer. Mr. B. was born
in the Emjnre State in 1829. His parents, Herman and Ziphia
(Fuller) Bump, were natives of the same State, where they died.
Mr. B. came to this State in 1848, and since 1850 has resided in
Fulton Co. He was united in marriage in New York State with
Anna Maria Foote, a native of that State and born in 1832. Mr.
B. has led a quiet, peaceable life, and in his business has been mod-
erately successful. His residence is on sec. 14; postoffice, Civer,
870 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Mrs. Henri/ Clatjburf/ was born in Richland Co., C, Sept. 5, '20,
and is the daughter of Simon Peter and Eve (Harpster) Kesler.
S'.ie attended the common schools in Ohio, where she secured her
education. She was united in marriajje with Henrv Clavburfi: in
1841, and 10 vears later thev came to Fulton Co, Thev had l)orn
to them 3 sons, of whom are living John and James. Charlie, the
oldest child, died when 22 months old. Her husband's occupation
was that of a farmer, and she resides on sec. 11. Mr. C. died in
1863. Mrs.'C.'s postoffice address is Cuba.
A. Cruise)!, harness and shoemaker, Cuba, was born in Hanover
township. Licking Co., O., July 11, '23, and is the son of Francis
and Catherine (Ryne) Cruisen, of Pennsylvania. In 1849 became
to this county, where he engaged in farming. This occupation he
was comj^elied to abandon on account of being afflicted with
rheumatism, which he did in 1854. Jan. 6, '46, he was married to
Nancy Irwin, who bore him 3 children. She died Nov. 25, '55.
He was united in marriage the second time March 16, '57, with
Sarah Wheeler, daughter of an old settler. She is a member of
the Christian Church.
Henry De Graff, barber, Cuba ; was born at Saratoga Springs,
N. Y., Jan. 15, '43, and is the son of Joseph and Catharine (Hews)
De Graff", of Xew York. He first came to this county in 1847, was
taken to Iowa and returned in 1850, since which time this has been
his home. He also is a i)laeksmith by trade, as well as a barber.
He has worked at the former trade with his father, who was also a
blacksmith. He enlisted in the 103d 111. Inf. Oct. 2, '62, under
Capt, Vandevander, of Canton. Was mustered out July 5, '66, at
Chicago. He took part in every engagement his company did save
one. He married Miss Xancy Hasty Aug. 16, ^^Q. Margaret
Ellen and Mattie Viola are their 2 children.
George W. Doicns, farmer, sec. 13; P.O., Civer; came to this
county in 1857 at the age of 8 years, and was educated in the com-
mon schools of this county. He was born in Knox county, O.,
Sept. 20, '49, and is the son of Theoj)hilus and Catharine (Mans-
field) Downs. His father was a native of Maryland, and died here
on the farm in 1870, and his mother was born in the Buckeye State.
George was married in Lewistown on the 9th of Oct., 1873, to Sarah
O. Bryant. Their only child is named Charles Franklin.
Harriet Efnor. — This lady resides upon sec, 8, upon the fine estate
of the late George Efnor. P. O. address, Cuba.
John H. Einrji was born in Joshua townshiji, this county, in 1841,
Dec. 25, and was a Christmas present to his j)arents, David F. and
Catharine (Alms) Emry, who were married on New Year's Day of
that year. His father was from Ohio and his mother a native of
Pennsylvania. They reside in Canton township. At the outbreak
of the war Mr. E. enlisted in the 67th 111. Inf. and was discharged
at Cam}> Douglas in Oct., '62. On the 4th of Dec, '67, in Canton,
he was married to Harriet E, Vaughan, who was born May 27, '45,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. fi71
They have a family of 6 children : Effie, Daisy, Rosa, Frank Lee,
Ralph and the baby. Mr. E. resides on sec. 1 ; P. O., Civer.
P. IF. GaUagcr, attorney at law, Cnba, was a native of Liver-
pool, Eno;land, where he was born July 1, 1852 ; parents were Wm.
and Mary (Rilferty) Galla<2;er, the first a native of County Mayo,
the last of County Roscoinuion, Ireland. They came to the United
States in 1854, bringing a family of two children, locating the same
year at Canton this county. The subject of this sketch obtained his
education in the Canton high school; in 1868 he went into the office
of the Canton Ledger to learn the printing business, remaining
there about three yetirs ; he then commenced the study of law in the
office of J. L. Murphy, Esq., of Canton; read law for five years;
while studying law he taught school for 4 terms in this county ; was
in 187.'5 elected Police Magistrate of Canton, to fill a vacancy;
served two years; then was elected Justice of the Peace; Sept. 18,
'75, he was admitted to the Bar by the Supreme Court, then in ses-
sion at Ottawa ; has been located at Cuba for the past four years.
Mr. G. has probably as large a practice as any lawyer of his age in
the county, having been unusually successful. We give his portrait.
John George, farmer. Mr. G. came to the county in 1854 and
settled on sec. 10, Putman township, and resides there to the present
time. He was born in Brooke county, W. Va., June 16, '31. His
parents, Thomas and Sarah (McCamant) George, died in this county.
Mr. G. enlisted in the 7th 111. Cav. under Capt. Herring, in 1862;
served till July, '65. His wife, Henrietta Fanning, was born in this
county on the 6th day of Nov., '47. They were married in this
township Sept. 25, '73. Harry, born fluly 25, '75, and Mary, born
Sept. 8, '77, are their children.' Mr. G.'s P. O. is Civer.
Sumner L. Gorham, farmer, sec. 24; P. O., Civer. Among those
who did valiant service for his countrv in the hour of her great peril
was the subject of this sketch. In 1862 he enlisted in Co. E, 103d
111. Inf, under Capt. F. C. Post and served till July 1, '65. He
participated in every battle his regiment did and did not receive a
scratch. He was never in a hos])ital and was not away from his regi-
ment a day during the 3 years. Mr. G. was born in Ashland county,
O., Oct. 31, '43, and is the son of Nathan and Roxana (Charlton)
Gorham, of the Bay State, l)oth of whom are living in this township.
In 1868 Mr. G. was married to Susanna jSIcCrary, a native of Ful-
ton county, and who was born in 1851. Their children are Addle,
born in 1869, and Fannie, born in 1871.
Francis M. (rrlgshi/, brickmak(>r, Cuba, was born near Lcwistown,
this county, June 19, 1840. His mother, Dorcas Grigsby, nee Col-
lins, was a native of Ohio, and his father, William Grigsby, was
born in Kentucky. Francis attended the country schools, and also
the seminary at Lcwistown. Pie has engaged in farming and also
in the mercantile business. In 1861, July 21, he enlisted in Co. F,
8th 111. Inf, and participated in all of the battles the noble 8th did
save one. He is a Justice of the Peace. He was married Oct, 3,
872 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
1870, to Josephine Davett. Grace, born Oct. 16, 1873, is their
only chikl. Both he and his wire belong to the M. E. Chnrch.
Mr. G. is an active member in the Order of United Workmen, and
in the I. O. of O. F.
J. W. Harper. Dnring the dark days of our conntry, when our
flag was assailed by traitor hands, J. W. Harper shouldered his
musket and went to the front. He served for 3 years in Co. K,
103rd 111. Inf., and was in all the battles the regiment participated
in except one, when he was sick. Mr. H. was born in Licking Co.,
O., May 12, 1843. His father, Andrew PIar])er, was a native of
the Keystone State, and at present lives in Iowa. His mother,
Sarah Ann Laws, died in 1854 or '55. J. W. was brought to this
county in 1849 and has since lived here. He was never sued, nor
did he ever sue a man ; was never on the witness stand, never was
on a jury and never held an office. He is engaged in farming on
sec. 11, P. O., Civer.
Stephen Hayden, farmer, sec. 15; P. O., Civer; was born in the
Empire State April 15, 1840, and is the son of Nathaniel and Sarah
Havden. At the age of 4 years he was brought to this county,
where in the subscription and common schools he received his edu-
cation. He enlisted in the 155th 111. Inf. in 1865, and was dis-
charged at Springfield in 1866. He was Corporal and promoted to
Sergeant. He has filled several local offices. He was married to
Oes Fanning in 1869. Austin H., born July 4, 1869, is their only
child. Mrs. H. is a member of the Presbyterian Church.
./. H. Heller was born in Ohio Dec. 1, 1815. His father, John
Heller, was a native of the Keystone State, while his mother,
Balenda Heller, 7}ee Vanauker, was born in New Jersey. Mr. H.
came to this county in 1835 and settled upon section 19 of Putmau
township. He owns 461 acres of land, and his children attend to
his farms while he resides in town, clerking. ISIr. H. does not
exact any rent from them other than to pay the taxes and keep the
imjirovements up. He gained his education principally in the State
of Ohio in the lt)g school-house, seated upon slab benches. When
he came to the township he thinks its population was not over 100.
He has held about all of the local offices, serving in some for many
years. In .Ian., 1<S;')9, he was married to Hannah Raughman. Only
3 of the 6 children she has borne arc living: Elizabeth, Daniel and
Cyrus.
Joseph R. Herrinr/; farmer, sec. 12; P. O., Civer; was born Aug.
27, 1819, at Baltimore, Md. ; jiarents were Thomas and Hannah
(Burnett) Herring. His father was accidentally killed at sea. He
was first mate of the vessel u))on which he lost his life. His mother
died in Maryland. Joseph R. came to this State in 1835, and has
lived on his present farm ever since. He enlisted in Co. K, 7th
111. Cav., in 1861, as Lieut.; was promoted to Captain and Major.
He was wounded in the battle of Corinth, and again in the battle
near Summerville, Tenn., and, singularly, was wounded in the same
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OF THE
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HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 87o
place — in the left arm — both times. In 1846 he was united in
marriage with Margaret Moran, who was born in Maryland in
1815. Their children are Hannah, Nelson, Josephine and Maggie.
Mr. H. owns 490 acres of land, 150 acres of which he has improved
himself. We give the portraits of the Major and wife.
Jacob Jloircri/, farmer, sec. 19; P. O., Cuba. Mr. INI. is a native
of the grand old Keystone State, having been born there Dec. 28,
1810; is the son of Peter and Polly (Shover) Mowery. Mr. M. at-
tended school in the old log school-house in his native State. He
landed in this county in June of 1838. He learned the black-
smithing trade, working 3 years as an apprentice. In 1841 all of
his tools were sold by the Constable to ])ay a security debt. He
has met with success since, however, and is now the possessor of
600 acres of land. He was married Dec. 20, 1843. His children
number 4 : Elizabeth Ellen, America, Mahlon and Judia Caroline.
We give Mr. M.'s portrait.
Elder Solomon Neff was born in 1814 in Virginia, and is the son
of Christian and Anna (Hamaker) Net!'. He attended the common
schools and also a college of Ohio. Elder Neflf is a minister of the
Missionary Baptist Church ; he is traveling in that capacity at
present. He has been preaching the Gospel with success for 41
years, and has organized several Churches and Sunday-schools in the
State of Ills. He was pastor of the Pleasant Grove Church (south
of Cuba) for 14 years, and for 13 years held pastorate over a Church
in Ashland Co., O. He has been Town Clerk of Putman and Su-
j)ervisor of Cass township : He was married to Alletha Bailey May
23, 1838, who bore him 6 children, 5 of whom are living all are
married and 4 living in Fulton Co. The Elder is a self-sacrificing
worker for the Master's cause. P. O., Cuba.
B. Newton was born in this tp. Jan. 26, 1842, son of Dr. Charles
and Mahala (Louderback), natives of Ct. and Penn., respectively.
The subject of this jKiragraph Avas educated in the common school ;
Aug. 19, 1860, he married Phoebe Barklcy, and now lias 4 children,
all living. He is a farmer on sec. 14, has been successful, and now
owns 60 acres. In 1862 he enlisted in the 70th 111. Inf., and re-
enlisted in 1864 in the 148th ; was Corporal. Since the war he has
been School Director and Constable.
Isane Neiiion, farmer and stock-dealer, sec. 11 ; is the son of
Charles and Mahala (Louderback) Newton, and was born in Put-
man tp., Aug. 14, 1836, and has never lived 3 miles from where he
lives now. His father died aliout 20 years ago and his mother lives
in Canton. In 1864 Mr. N. was drafted to serve in the war, but
hired a substitute whom he gave §1,000 to take his place. He was
united in marriage with Rebecca Chits at Bcrnadotte, this county.
There has been born to them 5 sons and 2 daughters: Charles J.,
Phebe, Caroline, deceased, A. Lincoln, Frank, Oliver and John.
Daniel Oviaft. One of the oldest settlers of the county is our
present subject. He was born in Ohio Oct. 18, 1817, and carae to
51
876 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Fulton Co. in 18.31 and has lived licre since. His father, Elisha,
was a native of New York and died in this county Oct. 10, 1847,
aged 58 vears. His mother died here in 187.'J. Daniel enlisted in
Co. E, i03d 111. Inf., in 1862 and served till 1805. He was
wounded at the battle of Mission Kid<r<'. There was hut one house
between where he lives and Canton when he settled there nearly a
half century ago. He resides on sec. Ji, engag(;d in farming; P. O.,
Civer.
H. C. Owen was born in Orange Co., N. Y., Aug. 24, '25, and
is the son of John and Caroline (Horten) Owen. INIr. O. came into
Adams Co., 111., in 1837, and to this county in 1849. He learned
the cooper's trade with his father and for many years work-
ed at it, but during the past 11 years he has been engaged in farm-
ing. Mr. O. took part in the Mormon war of 1840. On Christ-
mas of 1852 he received as a present the hand of Miss Margaret
Duryea in marriage. Jenette, Charles, Juline and Abraham are
the names of their children. Mr. O. is a member of the M. E.
Church. P. O., Cuba.
G. 8. Fitfman, farmer, sec. 24; P. O., Civer; was born in Ful-
ton, Penn., Nov. 25, '47, son of John and Caroline M. (Ayers),
also natives of Pennsylvania ; came to Fulton Co. in 1858 ; educated
in a common school here; has 80 acres of land, and as a farmer has
been moderately successful: has been Justice of the Peace; is a
Democrat, and a member of the U. B. Church ; married March 5,
'74, and his children are: Charles M., who died Dec. 5, 1870, and
Kate L.
John Pitfman. There was born to Mary (Sipe) and Richard Pitt-
man, while living in Bedford Co., Pa., and on Nov. 12, 1821, a
son, the subject of this sketch. His j)arents were natives of the
Keystone State. He came to Ohio in the fall of 1853 and to Ful-
ton Co. in 1857, and has since resided here. He has served as
School Director 14 years, and Constable, Justice of the Peace, Com-
missioner of Highways and Supervisor. INIr. P. never subscribed
but for one book in his life, that the History of Fulton Co., 111.
He was married Aug. 27, '44, in Fulton Co., Pa. He married his
second wife, Elizabeth Kimes, in Putman tp., Fulton Co., 111., April
9, '65. He has 4 children. Mr. P. is engaged in farming on sec.
13 and owns 240 acres. P. ()., Civer.
Chnrlen Pufnian. Of the numerous members of this time-honor-
ed family, Charles is engaged in agricultural pursuits upon sec. 1 ;
P. O., Civer.
Francis Piitman was born in Putman township, Fulton Co., Oct.
27, '37. His parents, Harrison and Malinda (Fonts) Putman, now
reside in Canton. Francis enlisted in the 7th 111. Cav. at Peoria
Aug. 20, '62, discharged July 12, '65. He was with Ca])t. Herring
when he was wounded the last time ; was also on Grierson's famous
raid, and on detached duty twice for a short time. In February,
1866, at Canton, he was united in marriage with Clara Sanders, who
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 877
was born Feb. 2o, '42. Thov have a flimily of 1 boy and 3 girls, —
Flora, Fannie, Mary Bell and Harrison C.
George C. Fufman, farmer, sec. 23; P. O., Civer. G. C. Put-
man, son of Reading and Staey (Combs) Putman, was born in In-
diana Oet. 3, '14. In 1821 he was brought to this county, where,
in the primitive schools of pioneer times, he obtained his education.
He has held local offices, and in 1834 was married to Charlotte
Crosthwait, who bore him 10 children, — 8 boys and 2 girls, — 7 of
whom are living. Three of the sons are dead, one of them being
killed in the army.
ir. A'^ .SVnic/crs, farmer, sec. 15 ; P.O.; Civer; was born in this
township Jan. 7, '52, son of Augustus H. and Martha J. (Brush),
father a native of New York and mother of Missouri ; father came
to this county in 1832. In 1877 Mr. W. K. Sanders married Alice
Sanders, and their children are Laura, born July 23, '78, and Fred.,
Aug. 26, '79. Mr. S. is a Democrat, and as a farmer has been
moderatelv successful.
]\'lorHs Smith, iarmcr and teamster, sec. 21 ; P. O., Cuba. Mr.
Smith stepped forward to defend his country in hours of danger, —
when she was assailed by rebel hands. He enlisted in Co. D, 70th
111. Inf , in 1762, and served till close of term. He was born in
Union Co., O., Feb. 28, 1842, and is the son of William and Mary
— Thomas — Smith. He received his education in Delaware, O.
In 1869 was married to Martha Laswell. All the children given
them — 4 boys and one girl — are living. Mrs. S. is a member of
the Christian Church.
£li B. Stevenson is worthy a notice in a work like this. He was
born in Ross Co.,0., July 20, 1833, and was brought to this county
5 years later, where he has continued to reside. His i'ather and
mother were John and Catherine — Black — Stevenson, of Mary-
land. Mr. S. was married in '56, Oct. 30th, at Cuba, to Miss Ellen
Waklron, who was born in Warren Co., III., in 1840. He is an
active member of the M. E. Church. He is one of the Trustees
and Steward, and has served as Superintendent of the Sunday-
school. Mr. S. has a nice farm on sec. 36, which he and his good
wife have made themselves. When they settled there it was in a
wilderness. P. O., Bryant.
John Still is a native of Germany and came to this county in '50,
and has resided here since. He was born on ihe 2d of Feb., '27.
His parents were John and Mary Still, Germans. John learned to
speak English at Sunday-school. He first learned cabinet-making
and carpentering, but is now farming, and owns 2 farms, l)<)th of
which he made by his own exertion. He was joined in matrimony
with Rebacca Bay, a native of Ireland, who was born in the year
1828. They are the parents of 3 children : Arthur, Reson, John
and William D. His postoffice is Civer.
D. Stirred, merchant, Cuba, was born in Scotland, Feb. 23, '36,
and is the son of James and Kate Stirrat. He came into this
878 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
county in '65, and has engaged largely in coal-mining and has his
coal works at Cuba, where, besides this interest and running a gen-
eral store, he owns the hotel of the place. He was married in '58,
and has 2 children, — Elizabeth and James. Mr. S. has succeeded
in life bv his own personal exertions and energy.
John SfoMair/er, farmer, sec. U) ; P. O., Cuba, was born in l\nin-
sylvania on the '29th of Aug., 1811, and is the son of Michael and
Catharine Stockbarger. He came to this county in 1856. He has
been exceedingly unfortunate in meeting with accidents. Aug. 20,
1872, he was run over by the cars, breaking an arm and a leg.
Again in 1878 he was run over. In 1S44 he was united in mar-
riage to Mary Watson, who bore him 7 children — 4 boys and 3
girls, all living, and 3 of them are married.
Milburne Sicearingen. This gentleman is engaged in agricultural
pursuits on sec. 8. P. O., Cuba.
Jonathan 31. Thomas, retired farmer, Cuba, was born in Sanga-
mon Co., 111., Feb. 10, 1836. His i)arents, Nathan and Sarah (Lott)
Thomas, were natives of Kentucky. Jonathan was brought to
Fulton Co. in March of the year of his birth. Here he received
su.ch learning as the schools oi' his boyhood afforded. lie has held
many of the local official positions, and in 1857, Aug. 21, he was mar-
ried. Hattie M., born July 30, 1860, is the only living one of 3
children. He attends the United Brethren Church.
Berintha Thompson, relict of A. C. Thomi)son, whom she married
in Sept. 1834, and M'ho died Sept. 15, 1863. There were born to
them 11 children, 8 of whom are living, — 3 boys and 5 girls. Mrs.
T. was born in Yates Co., N. Y., and is the daugiiter of Allen and
Eagleton . IMrs, T. has proven herself to be a woman
possessing unusual business capacities. For 16 years she has man-
aged a large farm consisting of 322 acres at ])resent. She has pur-
chased 320 acres of land since she has been a widow. P. O. address,
Canton.
J. E. Turner, farmer, sec. 12; P. O. Civer. On the 3d day of
June, 1840, in Putman tp., the subject of this sketch was born to
Samuel and Sarah (Bro«»king) Turner. His father died in this Co.
in 1867 and his mother in 1870. His father came from New York
to Illinois in 1835. Mr. T. was educated in the common schools of
this county and has held several of the local offices. He has a
finely-improved farm, well drained with tiling. Oct. 6, 1863, he
was united in marriage with Mary A. Turner, who was born June
3, 1844. The birthday anniversary of both himself and wife oc-
cur on the same day. " Henry, Carrie, Carroll and Sadie are their
children.
Junes K. Welch, M. I)., Cuba, whose portrait we give in this
book, was born in Nelson Co., Ky., Sept. 4, 1845, and is the son of
James W. and Marv (Swazey) 'Welch, l)oth of Kentucky. His
flither died July 27,'l878, in 'McDonough Co., 111.; his mother at
the same place in 1859. Dr. W. was brought iuto the State at the
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 879
age of 3 years, and was educated at Blandinsville. He received his
professional education at the Iowa Medical University, graduating
in 1865, and June of the following year located at Cuba and has
continued in practice to the present. He served as President of the
Town Board, and was in the hospital service 8 months. His first
wife was Hulinda Clayberry, the mother of 2 of his girls. She
died Sept. 23, 1874. He married E. E. Wilson, Feb. 21, 1878.
They have one child, a son.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a list of the township officials serving since the
organization of the township, together with the years of serving:
SUPERVISORS.
H. R. Hvatt lSoO-51 Inmnn Blackaby 1867-69
"Wilson Bolen 18o2 Albert U. Birch 1870
Joiin Riley 1853 T. J. Peirsol 1871
Jesse Burr 18o4 Simon C. Burbridgo 1872
AI)saloni Maxwell 1855 Daniel Heller 1873
W. N. Cline 1856 58 H. C. Berrv 1874
Alex. Hull 1859 A. S. Fuller 1875-76
Absalom Maxwell 1860 John Pittman 1877-78
Geo. Efnor 1861-62 Inman Blackaby 1879
H. S. Hyatt 1863-66
TOWN CLERKS.
W. N. Cline 1850-55 P. H. Snively 1868
Jos. T. Warner 1856 T.J. Peirsol 1869
Solomon Neff 1857 John W. Bowen 1870
J. W. Hall 1858 .Tohn M. Heller 1871
Albertis Niekell 18 9 Joseph Harmison 1872-74
William Morgan 1860 H. M. Smith 1875
M. C. Stoner 18()1 Stepiien Call 1876-78
Albertis Nifkell 1862 Cyrus Heller 1879
J. K. Harmison 1863-67
ASSESSORS.
A. Nirkell 1850 J. H. Heller 1868-69
J. R. Herring 1851 JamesGeorge 1870
A. Niekell....'. 1852-53 Francis Putman 1871-
J. R. Herring 1854 John Pittman 1872-73
W. B. .Mesler 1856 Inman Blackal)V 1874
J. H. Heller 1857-58 J. C. Cline '. 1875
H. Putman 1859 J. H. Heller 1876-77
J. H. Heller 1860-66 Joseph Harmison 1878-79
Wm. Clayberg 1867
COLLECTORS.
T.J.Walters 1850-51 J. C. Cline 1867
A. Niekell 1852 Alex. Sliaw 1869
H.Wright 18.i6 Simon P. Henry 1870
William Belfonl 1857 Isaac I'orter....". 1871
J. H. Heller 1858-00 J. M. Heller 1872
R C. Thomas ]8()1 Samuel Clayberg 1873
J. H. Heller 1862 S. L. Gorhain 1874
A. H. Siun.lers 18():! J. C. Hedrick 1875
T. J. Walt.TS 18f)4 Ira Porter 1876-77
Inman Blackaby 1865 t. J. Mosher 1878
J. H. Heller .....' 1866 J.E.Turner 1879
UNION TOWNSHIP.
Union township was first settled by Robert Grant, Isaac Hnlick
and a Mr. Betson, who located in 1829 on section 12, near where
the ancient town of Troy stood. Job Babbitt settled on the same
section in 1831. The first Justice was James Ogden. Rev. Mr.
Betson preached the first sermon. Melinda Babbitt was baptized
at Troy in 1832, which was the first baptism in the township, and
also the first in Cedar creek. The first married was John Rogers to
Miss Taylor. Mary Ogden was the first child born in the town-
ship. The first death was a son of Rev. Mr. Betson. Among the
early pioneers who settled in this township prior to 1838 were
Rev. Richard Haney, Stephen Tompkins, Job Babbitt, John Gal-
let, and others. Jonathan Babbitt is the oldest pioneer now living
in the township. The first school in Union township was taught by
John Parkerson in 1836, in old St. Augustine. The first mill was
built by >vathaniel B. Childs in 1833. For further history, see his-
tory of Avon, biographies, sketch of the Churches, etc.
TROY.
The town of Trov was founded bv Xathaniel B Childs, in 1833.
It was a prosperous town in the days of ox carts and mule teams,
but has mouldered away since the advent of railroads in Fulton
county.
ST. AUGUSTINE.
This village was founded in 1830 bv Smith and Mattin<rla. It
... *
was an enterprising little town, but there being no suitable place for
a depot, new St. Augustine was founded near by in Knox county,
on the completion of the C, B. & Q. Railroad, and like many other
once fortunate places old St. Augustine is one of the towns of the
past.
AVON.
This lovely little village is situated in the western part of Union
township, on the C, B. cV: Q. Railroad, and was founded March 5,
1854, by R. Woods, O. H. Woods and D. N. Wright, and now has
a population of about one thousand inhabitants. The town of Avon
was chartered March 8, 18G7, by a sj)ecial act of the Legislature,
and tiie first corporate election was held the same year, at which the
following officers were elected: D. H. Small, President; J. L. Coe,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 881
L. H. Hewett, A. J, Churchill, and M. R. Gutridge, Trustees;
Simon Stevens, Police Magistrate; J. W, Frarapton, Clerk. The
first name of the town was Woodvillc, but in 1843 an application
was made for a postoffice, and as there was an office of that name in
Adams county, the town and office were changed to, Woodstock.
On April 4, 1852, the Postmaster General, James Campbell, changed
the name to Avon, as the county seat of McHenry county had also
the name of Woodstock. The first postmaster was Stephen Tomp-
kins, who held the office 7 years. It is said that he at first kept the
postoffice in his hat, so that he would not have to leave his work
when any person called for mail, as he was a shoemaker, and was
very busy.
Mr. Tompkins is the oldest merchant in Avon ; commenced busi-
ness in l<s;3ij, and has been engaged in business ever since, with the
exception of one year. In 18G5 he took his son, A. B. Tompkins,
in partnershij) with him, since which time the firm was known as S.
Tompkins & Son, until January, 1878, when they took another son
into the firm, and is known now as S. Tompkins & Sons.
For sketch of other leading business men of Avon, see biog-
ra|)hies.
The Avon District Agricultural Board was organized under the
corporate name of the ''Avon Agricultural Society," Oct. 11, 1872,
with the following officers, viz : L. F. Ross, President; D. H.
Gorham and John Woods, Vice Presidents ; H. V. D. Woods,
James Lockwood, O. Crissey, Geo. L. Snapp, L. H. Hewett, R. A.
Saunders, John A. Butler, A. A. Mailliard, W. J. R. Fennessy, J.
B. Hatch, and Wm. J. Austin, Directors; A. B. Tompkins, Treas-
urer, and A. J, Churchill, Secretary. The present officers are, D,
H. Gorham, President; O. Chatterton, J. B. Hatch, S. Tompkins,
and L. M.Green, Vice Presidents; Treasurer, O. J. Beam; Secre-
tarv, A. J. Churciiill. Authorized capital, $10,000.
One of the leading features of this society, is that it offers two
classes of premiums, one to the general public, and one to the stock-
holders of the society. In the early part of its history the society
maintained monthly stock sales, when all the farmers could bring
stock, farming impleni'-nts, etc., and sell them at auction, the com-
pany emi)loying the auctioneer. It had held eight annual fairs,
each with considerable profit to the stockholders.
THE SCHOOL.
The first school in Avon was taught in 1840, in a small house
near the present residence of E. D. Mailliard; the teacher was
Charles Davis. The first school-house built is the present resi-
dence of A. J. Churchill. The j)resent structure was erected in
1857, and is a two-story brick, with four rooms, and cost about
$6,000. The first teacher in this building was Henry Stump. The
Avon schools have reached a high degree of excellence, through
88 j! HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
1
the wise management of ex-Prineipal Leroy S. Bates, who is nowj
in Lewistown, 111., where he has a larger field of labor.
CHURCHES.
First 3L E. Church — Organized 1849 by Rev. Uri J. Giddings,
with a membership of six, viz: D. N. Wright, Mrs. E. Wright,
Mrs. Hannah Wright, Joseph Mings, Mrs. Mings, and Mrs. A.
Stout. The first house of worship was built by this society in
1857, at a cost of $7,000, and is the largest edifice in town. The
corner-stone was laid by Rev. Richard Haney, one of the pioneers
of Union township. Through death and removals this society has
grown so weak that public services are not held at present (1879).
Fird Congregational Church. — Organized Nov., 1855, with 8 mem-
bers, by Rev. L. H. Parker, Rev. Samuel Dilley and Deacon E. G.
Roe. Dec. 1 of the same year Stephen Goodspeed was elected
Deacon for two years and G. A. Marsh for one year. Church edi-
fice erected in 1861. This organization sprang from the First Con-
gregational Church of Virgil in Lee township, which removed to
Prairie City about the year '58, and changed its name to First Con-
gregational Church of Prairie City. Communicants 29. Services
every Sabbath by Rev. A. P. Loomis, Pastor.
First Baptist Church. — Organized July 9, '64; bought a house in
1865, in which they have worshiped until the present. At one time
this organization was the strongest Church in the village ; but by
death and removals it has been reduced to the small number of 36.
Sabbath-school everv Sabbath at 10 a. m. ; services everv Sabbath
at 3 p. M. by Rev. William Sturgeon, Pastor.
First Universalist Church. — Organized Jan. 18, '69 ; church edi-
fice erected in 1869; Sabbath-school every Sabbath at 12 M. ; ser-
vices each alternate Sabbath at 10 :30 A. m. by Rev. B. X. Wiles,
Pastor. Communicants, 66.
Avon Catholic Church. — Organized in the summer of 1871, when
a church edifice was also erected. Communicants about 150. Ser-
vices every 3 weeks by Father Riley, Pastor.
FACTORIES.
The Paragon Mills were erected in the spring of 1875 by Garret
"Van Winkle as a planing mill, and was converted into a grist-mill
in 1877. To this in the spring of 1879 was added a tile and brick
factory, both of which are being operated with success.
The Bardolph Fire-Clay Works, of Avon, were erected by Morey
& UUery in 1877. Capacity, 60,000 tile per month.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
Nicholas H. Ackerman, proprietor of the Ackerman House,
Avon, was born in Bergen Co., N. J., Aug. 11, 1829, and is the son
of Cornelius and Elizabeth (Yeoman) Ackerman ; the former is liv-
Of THE
IMVFRSITY OF ILLINOIS,
IITSTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 885
ing with his son at Avon at the age of 90 years. He reads every
day without the aid ot'gUisses, and is very active and healthy. Mr.
A. was educated in the common schools of New Jersey. Oct. 23,
'49, he was united in marriage with Mary E. Winters, by whom he
had 4 bovs, 2 of whom, Charles and Harry, are living. Mrs. A.'s
grandmother, Winters, is living in Newark, N. J., at the age of 100
years.
David J. Austi)i, son of Elwell E. Austin, was born in the town
of Gouverneur, N. Y., Dec. 20, '20; removed to Mount Sterling,
Brown Co., HI., in 1850, and the following year came to this county.
He has been twice appointed Postmaster, and twice elected to the
office of Collector; was married Juue 12, '4.3, to Nancy C. Smith,
by whom he had 4 children, 3 of whom are living. They are mem-
bers of the Missionary Baptist Church of Avon, and are zealous
workers in the Master's cause. He has driven a huxter wagon for
14 years. P. O., Avon.
Isaac F. Babbitt was born in Hamilton Co., O., March 18, '10;
is the son of Stephen Babbitt, a native of Washington Co., Pa.
Mr. B. left home at the age of 14; came to Indiana, where he re-
mained until 1842, when he came to Fulton Co.; was educated in
subscription schools in Ohio and Indiana. He was Captain of the
militia in Indiana for 5 years, and has filled the offices of School
Director, Highway Commissioner, Town Clerk for 11 years here,
also Justice 4 years in Indiana. He married, Jan. 13, '29, Saman-
tha Hurley ; she was born in the same house that Mr. B. was, July
6, 1810, his father having moved out shortly after his birth, and
her father moved in the house a short time previous to her birth.
By her he had 5 children ; she died, and Feb. 17, 1848, he was mar-
ried a second time, this time to Ailsie Phelps, sister to Mrs. Lois
Cooper, of Union township, and was born near Hochester, N. Y.
Thcv have 6 children. Botii Mr. and Mrs. B. are members of the
Christian Church. He is a mason and plasterer by trade, but is
farming at present. P. O., St. Augustine.
James Babbitt, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O., St. Augustine.
One of the first pioneers of Union townshij) is James Babbitt, who
was born in Fayette Co., O., April 9, 1813. He is a brother of
Jonathan Babbitt, of whom mention is made in this volume. He
was united in marriage with Mary A. Randall Nov. 5, 1837. She
became the mother of 12 children, 8 of whom are living, — Jonathan
J., Delilah, James, Eliza J., Sarah C, Edwin, Azuba and Wiltbrd.
They also have a grandniece, Estelle Jiabbitt, whom they have
raised from 5 years of age.
Jonathan Babbitt, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O., St. Augustine;
was born in Fayette Co., ()., March 13, 1811, and is the son of Job
Babbitt, who removed with his family to Indiana in a flat-boat in
1818, thence to Springfield, III., in 1829, and to Fulton Co. in '30.
Job Bibbitt was one of the first pioneers of Union township, and
helped carry the chain for General Stillman wiiile the latter was
886 HISTORY OF FII.TON COUNTY.
Piirvcvin<r the State roafl from Farminorton to Btirlinffton in I80O.
The .sul)jeet of tl'.is sketch i.s the oldest pioneer now iivinj"^ in Union
townshi]), and has undergone the anxieties and hardsliips of pioneer
life. In 1832 he, in company with the otlier members of the fam-
ily and neighbors, left their log luits during the Black Hawk war
and went to the Fort at Canton. He helped bury the first person
that died in the township. To Mr. B. belongs the honor of nam-
ing the township (Union). Several years ago Mr. Babbitt saw a
trough (dug from an elm log) containing the skeleton of an Indian,
which had been fastened in the fork of a leaning tree on Spoon
river, where the State road crossed said river; hence the name, In-
dian Ford. Mr. B. has been married 3 times: first, Oct. 18, 1832,
to Amelia Jennings; second time, Oct. 12, 1834, to Charlotte Du-
colon ; third time, Dec. 6, 1838, to Elizabeth E. Taylor. He is
the father of 7 children. Mr. and Mrs. B. are members of the
Christian Church.
S. B. Bays was born in Champaign county. 111., Feb. 14, '41, the
son of John and Susan Bays, the former (deceased) a native of East
Tennessee and the latter of Fayette county. Pa., now residing in
Avon at the age of 76 vears. Mr. Bavs came to this countv with
his mother in 1846. He is now doing good business as a photo-
grapher in Avon, where he established himself })ermanently as an
artist in 1876. He was married May 15, '73, to Phcebe Caverly,
daughter of Peter G. Caverly, of Elmwood, 111. They have 3 chil-
dren, viz: Harry S., Debert C, and an infant. His brother J. W.
is a leading photograhher of Peoria, 111. He has 3 other brothers
in Illinois, all in the photograph business.
0. J. Beam, banker, Avon, whose portrait we give, was born in
Clark county, ()., Dec. 30, 183<S. His parents moved to Champaign
county when he was quite small, and he came to Warren county,
111., in 1851, and to this county in 1875. He attend the common
schools and then entered Abingdon College, from which he gradu-
ated in 18()9. He was united in marriage with Miss Emma Laif-
tus on the Christmas of 1870. She was born in Warren county,
111. Grace E. and Walter H. are their children, Mr. B. united
with the Christian Church in Feb., 1859, and is now serving his
fourth year as President of the Western Illinois Christian Confer-
ence. In 1870 he began business as a farmer with a capital of
$1,000, and the following year bought a farm of 40 acres. Having
a desire for a commercial business, however, he quit farming, and,
Nov. 2, '75, embarked in the banking business in Avon. So suc-
cessful has he been that even at this early day he is numbered
among the wealthiest and most enterprising men of Avon. During
this year (1879) he erected a magnificent brick block in which his
bank is situated. The ujiper and lower stories are used for various
branches of business.
Roydl Bliss, son of Isaac Bliss, of Avon, was b(u-n in Orange
county, Vt,, June 21, '27. He was educated in the common schools
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 887
of his native State and came to this county in 1856, and since has
filled several local offices. He spent 20 years upon the railroads of
the East. He was united in marriage with Maria Stoddard, in Put-
ney, Vt., May 1, 1840. She was born in Westminster, Vt. They
had 7 children born to them, (3 of whom are living. William clerks
in the store for his father, who is engaged in general merchandising.
Royal's father has recently returned from California where he has
been living for several years.
Jeremiah S. Bofkin, farmer, was born in this township March 3,
'43, and is the son of Levi O. Botkin, who was born in Clark
county, O., Nov. 7, '09, and came to this county in '39. He rented
a house of Mr. Kline, and the following spring erected a log-cabin,
which has long since been Replaced by a more substantial and spa-
cious residence. Mr. J. S. B. was married Feb. 8, 1877, to I^aura
Simington, daughter of James Simington, of Union township.
They have 2 children, — James and Elsie. Mrs. B. is a member of
the M. E. Church. P. O., Ellisvillc.
Colonel John Butler was born in Greenbrier Co., Va., July 2(5,
1802, and is the son of William and Tacy (Gray) Butler. His
parents took him to Gallia Co., O., in 1804, where he remained
nntil '33, when he went to St. Joseph Co., Ind., thence to Warren
Co., 111., in '39, where he entered land, raised and dealt largely in
cattle, and grew quite wealthy, owning at one time 1,300 acres of
well-improved land. Although the Colonel was never in the army
he has long merited the title Colonel on account of his valuable
services as a militia officer, both in Ohio and Illinois. In the
former place he served as Lieutenant, Cajitain, Major and Adjutant;
and in the latter was elected Colonel of the 84th 111. Militia. His
father helped build Fort Recovery under Gen. Wayne. His uncle,
Isaac Butler, helped capture Black Hawk. A southern man, but
true to the L^nion. He built the first frame barn in the Southern
part of Warren Co. He married Mary Adney April 25, '22, who
gave him all his education. They had !•> children, 7 of whom are
living, and all married except Mary Helen, who is now in Minne-
sota traveling; for her health. Mrs. B. died while on a visit to
Kansas, Nov. 12, 1875,
James Carr, sen., was born in Pennsylvania, Oct. 17, 1808, and
is the son of John Carr, who was of Scotch descent. The subject
of this sketch removed to Cass (then Morgan) county, III., in 1825,
and went through our jircsent capital, which then contained but few
houses, and looked through, between the logs of the first court-
house there, and saw what was transpiring on the opposite side of
the house. His father said he was a prisoner of war when but 4
years old, while the British had possession of Philadelphia. Mr.
C. was educated in the common schools; has been the School Direc-
tor; School Trustee here, and was Justice of the Peace 12 years in
Cass county ; has been married twice, and is the father of 4 boys
and 4 girls, 7 of whom are living. He married his second wife,
888 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Mary N. Reavis, in 1837. Mrs. C. is a member of the M. E
C-hurch. Son James is married and living on the farm of Mr. C
John and Edward remain with their parents. He is a farmer and
stock- raiser. P. O., Avon.
George Childs, farmer, sec. 13 ; P. O., Avon. Mr. C. was born
in Canton, this county, May 6, '32, and is the son of Nathaniel B.
and Jane (Hall) Childs. He was educated in Canton; celebrated
the 4th of July, 1856, by marrying Margaret A. Cane, who was
born near Canton in '38. They have had born to them 8 children,
6 of whom are living. Mr. C. has never seen the soil of any other
State, and is now 47 years old. His father was in the dry-goods and
distillery business with General Stillman in Canton previous to the
Black Hawk war; also built Troy, on Cedar creek, and in early
days used coon-skins as a legal tender.
Sylccster S. Clai/berg, physician and surgeon, Avon ; was born in
Cuba, this county, Jan. 4, 1838, and is the son of George and Eliza-
beth (Baughman) Clayberg, of Cuba, who came to Fulton Co. in
1837. The Doctor attended the common schools of Cuba, and en-
tered the medical department of the University of Michigan, whore
he spent two terms. He subsequently graduated from Rush Medi-
cal College, Chicago, and returned to Cuba in 1860 and began the
practice of his chosen profession. From Cuba he went to Fair-
view, and to this place in 1873, where he has won a large practice.
He was married May 25, 1864, to S. Belle Bowen, who bore him 3
children. She died Oct. 29, 1870. Mr. C. obtained another help-
meet June 22, 1875, in the person of N. Abigail Mings, also a na-
tive of Fulton Co. The result of this union is 1 child.
J. W. Fisher, son of Jacob and Lucy (Gardner) Fisher ; was
born in Westmoreland Co., Pa., April 1, 1842. He came with his
parents to this county in 1855, and was educated in Wenona Semin-
ary, Wenona, 111. He is also a graduate of Eastman's Business
College, of Chicago. He served 3 years in the late war in Co. B,
103d 111. Inf ; was in the battles of Mission Ridge, siege of Vicks-
burg, Jackson, siege of Atlanta and others; was wounded in the
battle of Griswoldville, and draws a pension. He was married,
Oct. 18, 1871, to Addie Flake, who was born in Union town^i^hip,
this county, June 24, 1855. They have 2 boys and 2 girls. Both
Mr. and Mrs. F. are members of the E. M. Ciiurch. Mr. F. taught
school successfully for 10 years; is now a farmer and mechanic. P.
O., EUisville.
E. S. Gorham, former, son of F. S. and Parna (Sullivan) Gor-
ham, was born Nov. 2, 1833, in Alleghany Co., N. Y. His parents
first removed with him to Onondaga Co., N. Y., thence to this coun-
ty in 1837, where he received a common-school education ; attend-
ed the first school that was taught in EUisville, which was in 1840.
His father died in EUisville in 1847. Mr. G. was married June 4,
1868, to Harriet Sweet, daughter of G. S. Sweet, who lives with
his daughter. Mrs. G. was born in Erie Co., Pa. They are the
lIIfSTOIlY or FULTON COUNTY. 889
parents of 5 cliildron. In 1852 Mr. Gorham went "overland" to
California, and returned by water in 1866. P. O., Avon.
Allen H. Harrod was born in Seott Co., Ind., Jan. 4, 18;U. His
father, Wm. Harrod, was the first child born in Louisville, Ky.,
and was related to L\A. James Harrod, of Harrodsburg. In his
younger days, like Daniel Boone, he spent most of his time in the
forest, hunting deer, ])anthers and other game. He lived a devoted
member of the })aptist Chureh till his death, which occurred Jan.
28, 1835. He lel't a family of 10 chiklren, of whom Alien H. was
the youngest, being but 4 years old. His mother, Elizabeth (New)
Harrod, was born in N. C, Dec. 6, 1786. AVhen 12 years of age
she moved with a colony of 300 into Kentucky, a distance of 500
miles, the journey being made through a wilderness with pack-
horses. After the death of her husband she labored hard to sup-
port and educate her children, which she did well. She died July
4,1875. Her father, Jethro New, was a soldier in the Revolution-
ary war, and helped cajiture Major Andre, and witnessed his execu-
tion. The subject of this sketch, Allen H., came to Illinois in
1848, and in 1850 married Ailcy, the eldest daughter of James Cox,
a pioneer of Fulton Co. She was born in Canton, II!., Dec. 7, 1830,
and possessed those noble Christian graces which so beautifully
adorn life. She died Aug. 28, 1875, leaving a family of 5 children.
Mr. H. was again married March 16, 1876, to Eliza J. Babbitt,
daughter of James Babbitt. They have one child, Silva New, born
Sept. 10, 1877. Mr. H. was musician in Co. I, First Board of
Trade Begiment. He is a cousin of John C. New, ex-IT. S. Treas-
urer, now living at Indiana})()lis, Jnd. He has held many local
offices and is an Elder in the Christian Church at St, Augustine.
Jerome B. Hatch, farmer and stock-raiser; P. O., Avon; was
born in Medina Co., Ohio, March 9, 1827, and is the son of Noah
Hatch, who removed with his family to Cass county, Mich., in
1836, where he died. Mr. Hatch's educational advantages were
confined to the common schools of Ohio and Michigan, and received
but little of that. His father was in the war of 1812. Mr. H.
came to this county in 1845. He was married Nov. 7, 1852, to
Mary Woods, by whom he has 6 boys, 3 of whom are living, viz :
Warren W., Geo. A. and Arthur E. They are members of the
Universalist Church. He lived in Warren county 7 years. He
made a tour through the West a few years since ; owns a farm of
320 acres.
John M. Heller, attorney, Avon. The subject of this sketch was
born in Cuba, Fulton county, April 3, 1847, and is the son of
Simon S, and Susan (Dunnivan) Heller, of Cleburne, Texas. He
was reared and educated in Peoria, also attended the St. Louis Law
school one term. Some time |)rcvious to 1869 he was pierced by
Cupid's arrow, hurled by a Miss America Mowery, whose father
was decidedly opjiosed to any intimacy whatever between his daughter
and the said Mr. Heller. On the night of Nov. 1 7, '(^^, as he (Heller)
890 HISTORY OF FILTON COUNTY.
was entering the premises of Mr. Mowery, the enraged old gentle-
man hurled another arrow (which was made of lead), and this second
arrow did its work so well that in consequence, on the l-4th day of
Jan., '69, the right arm of Mr. H. was amputated. Finally, on the
21st of Vfh., '139, he succeeded in wedding his dearly bought wife.
Five children are the result of this union, 3 boys and 2 girls, all
living. Mrs. H. is a member of the M. E. Church. During the
war Mr. H. kept sutler's tent, and in '65 enlisted in Co. D, 14th
111. Cav., but was discharged before he reached the regiment. Went
to Texas in '73, and there in '74 began the practice of law. Also
practiced law in Kansas one year, and in '77 was admitted to the
Bar in 111., since which time he has practiced with great success in
the courts of our State.
Chandler Holli-'ifcr, farmer and stock-raiser ; P. O., Avon ; son of
Dr. Elisha Hollister, was born in Gill, Franklin Co., Mass., Aug.
14, 1804; received a common-school education in Mass., and moved
to Catteraugus Co., X. Y., in 1833; thence to Trumbull Co., O., in
1836, and to this county in 1837. Mr. H. has served in many local
offices. He was married in Oct.. 1833, to Delana Stubbins, who is
a native of N. Y. They had 7 children born to them, 5 of whom
are living. Both Mr. and Mrs. H. are members of the M. E.
Church. He kept hotel in P^Uisville 4 years; went to his native
State in 1878, visiting everv State on the wav.
Thomas C. Hovell, tarmer, P. O., Avon, is a son of Thomas and
Prudence Hovell, of Union township; was born May 20, 1848, in
this township. His father was at Fort Madison and saw the great
warrior, Black Hawk, expire; was also one of the first settlers in
EUisville. Mr. Hovell received a common-school education in this
county; w^as married April 2, 1872, to Angeline Brown, daughter
of \Vm. Brown, of Lee tp. They have 4 children, — 2 boys and 2
girls. Mrs. H. is a member of the M. E. Church. Mr. H. and
his brother J. J. are proprietors of a butcher shop in St. Augustine,
Knox Co.
Eloy D. MaiUlard. The subject of this sketch, Monsieur Eloy
D. Mailliard, was born at Mortfontaine, then a country-seat belong-
ing to Joseph Bonaparte, near Paris, France, March 9, 1797. Here
the treaty of peace between the United States and France was
signed in 1804, an event which Mr, Mailliard well remembers.
The Mailliards being retainers of the Bonaparte family, he and his
two brothers were taken by Joseph Bonaparte and educated in Paris
and became members of his household. In 1811, when Joseph
Bonaparte was crowned king of Spain, Mr. Mailliard acconi] anied
him. In 1814 Mr. M. accompanied his lord to Switzerland, and
in 1815 returned with him to Paris, where he remained until the
battle of Waterloo. He remembers Xa]>oleou I, and says the last
time he saw him alive was at the last grand review of his army at
the Palace of the Tuileries, just before that great battle which was
so disastrous to the Bonaparte family. He saw him frequently at
IIISTOIIY OF FULTON COUNTY. 891
Mortfoiitaino, and followed his funeral cortege on the return of his
remains from St. Helena. Mr, M.'s oldest brother, Louis Mailliard,
accompanied Joseph Bonaparte in his flight to America. In 1816,
Mr. Mailliard, with .Ios('])h Bonaparte's family, joined the unfor-
tunate exile in Bordentown, New Jersey. He was present when
Lafayette paid the family a visit, and saw Bonaparte and Lafayette
embrace and kiss, and heard their conversation. ]\Ir. ISIailliard
still has vivid recollections of the younger members of the Bona-
parte family. He was very familiar with Louis Napoleon, and
when, in 1848, while living in Avon, he read of his election to the
Presidency of the French Rej)ublic, he wrote to him, congratulating
him on his election, and received an autograjJi letter in re])ly, which
is full of affectionate remembrance and bears date, "• Paris, 8 May,
1849." In 18')9, after Napoleon had been crowned Emperor, he
caused a letter to be written to Mr. M. enclosing a token of remem-
brance more substantial than words, as the following letter from
Baring Bros. & Co. of London, will show :
Mr. E. Mailliaki), Avon, Fulton County, Illinois:
Sir: — Confornial)le to an order that has heen given tons by His Exeel-
leney, the Minister of State and of tlie Honseiioid of thr Eiii]>ire of France,
we have ordered Messrs. James King's Sons, bankers, of New York, to pay to
you the sum of 10,000 francs. *
Receive, dear sir, our distinguished consideration,
BARING BROS. & CO.
Victor Hugo was one of Mr. Mailliard's young companions, and
was page to King Joseph. In 1826 Mr. Mailliard went to Italy to
reside with Napoleon Louis, elder brother of Louis Napoleon, who
was the husband of Princess Charlotte, daughter of Joseph and
Julie Bonaparte, remaining with them in Florence until 1832;
from thence he returned to France and residcKl at the castle Sureil-
lirs, in the dcj)artment of the Seine, until l8ol. He was married
Dec. 29, 1824, to Amanda Teresa (iallet; by whom he has had 3
sons and 7 daughters — seven of whom are living in and near Avon.
Mrs. M. was born at the castle of Mortfontaine in 1806, and was
a god-daughter of Joseph I^oiiaparte and his daughter Zenaide (for
whom their daughter Zenaide was named) and was adopted by the
family, reared by Queen Julie, Joseph's wife, who educated her in
Paris. Miss Gallet had gone with her godmother to Germany in
1816, and in 1821 came with the Princess Charlotte to America to
visit Joseph Bonaparte, and returned to France in 1823. Mr.
Mailliard followed, and they were married as above stated, at Mort-
fontaine. Mrs. M. was Queen Julie's confidential maid, and has
several kind letters from her. After their marriage the Mailliards
returned to America and resided with Jose]>h Bonaparte two years,
when they returned to Florence, Italy, to reside with Princess
Charlotte, who was then an exile to that ])lace. They resided there
six years, then returned to the place of their birth, Mortfontaine,
and in 1841 returned to America and settled in Avon. They have
892 HISTORY or FULTON COUNTY.
a oolleotion of valiniblo presents from difforont members of the
Bonaparte family. Among these is a painting- by the immortal
Rapluiel of the head of Christ in his last agony. This is a master-
piece of art, and was a present from Qneen Jnlie to Mrs. Gallet,
mother of Mrs. Mailliard, and when presented, it was with the
understanding that it slu)iild be inherited by her. It was a present
to the Queen by Xapoleon First. A daughter of Mailliard's, Mrs.
Geo. Simmons, who was a goddaughter of the Princess Charlotte,
has an opal cross and ear-rings, of great value, presented by her
godmother. The cross contains an ojxil an inch long, with two
others one-half inch long, surrounded by twelve rubies set in gold.
This set was a present to Charlotte from Bernadotte, King of Swe-
den. Mrs. Mailliard has a gold watch and chain, the watch a
present from Princess Charlotte, and the chain from Queen Julie.
AVhile living in Rome, Mrs. M. was intimately acquainted with
Madame Letitia Ramolina, mother of Xapoleon the Great, and
visited her frequently. She was at that time 90 years old, and had
seen her family rise until they ruled Europe, and saw their influence
and power decline until all were exiles. Mr. M. occupied the posi-
tion of purveyor of the household in the family of Joseph Bona-
parte for several years, and was Captain of Militia under Louis
Phillippc, haVing still the uniform he then wore. Mrs. M. was two
years older than Princess Charlotte, and four years younger than
her godmother Princess Zenaide, and was their companion and con-
fidential maid until she and they reached years of maturity. On
the death of Princess Charlotte she directed in her will that an
annuity of §380 be paid to Mrs. Mailliard from her estate so long
as she should live, and it is received promptly each year. Mr.
Mailliard's brother, Louis, staid with Joseph lionaparte until his
death, and was executor of his will. He was also in the Franco-
Prussian war, and was in Paris during the Siege, attending to the
interests of Joseph Bonaparte's family, and sent out a letter by
balloon to INIr. Mailliard, which was received. Mr. Mailliard is a
hale old man, a little deaf, i)ut quite jovial. Mrs. M. is also hearty
and an entertaining old lady. The children are all married except
Zenaide, who lives with and takes care of her parents.
Robert A. Mitchell, farmer and stock-raiser, P. O., Avon; was
born in the Emerald Isle, Aug. 12, '29, and is the son of Chas.
Mitchell, who came across the ocean with his family to Pennsyl-
vania in 1831, thence to Ohio, and from thence to Knox county, 111.,
and in 1865, Mr. M. settled in Fulton county. He was married,
April 12, '55, to Sarah Hendricks; she was born in Indiana, Aug.
21, '30. They had 12 children, of whom 10 are living, viz: Caro-
line, Oliver, Stephen A., Henry, George, Elizabeth, Silas, Emma,
Mary and Robert. Mr. M. owns between 400 and 500 acres of
land.
Rev. Amos Morcij, son of John Morey, was born Sept. 16, '12, on
the Penobscot river, in what was then the Territorv of Maine.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
His parents removed with their family in 1815 to Oneida county, N.
Y., thence to Huron county, Ohio, in 1831, and in 1837 Mr. M.
came to Fulton county. In 1838 he hauled wheat to Chicago, sold
it for 50 cents a bushel. He was married Sept. 16, '33, to I^ydia H.
Wright, by whom he had 10 children. Mrs. M. died April 8, '76,
and he again married, Oct. 22, '76, to Elizabeth J. (Shoemaker) Lit-
tle. They are members of the M. E. Ohurch ; was Paster of the
Avon ^I. E. Church last year; is now a supcranuated minister. His
sou Geo. M. is Pastor of the M. E. Church at Millersburc:, and was
Pastor of the M. E. Church at Lewistown 2 years. His daughter
Emily E. is the wife of Rev. George W. Martin, Pastor of the
Prairie City M. E. Church. His son, Amos F., is patentee of
Morey's iron truck and of a sulky attachment for j)lows.
Thomas Pool, son of John and Elizabeth (Fulton) Pool ; was
bora in La Porte county, Ind., March 31, '33; removed with his
parents to ]\Iontgomery county, Ind,, in 1837, thence to AVayne Co.,
Ind., in 1840, and to this county in 1843. He served 3 years in the
Rebellion, in Co. I., 72d 111. Inf., and was in the siege of Vicks-
burg, and the battles of Cham])ion Hills, Mobile, Franklin and
K^ashville; was married Jan. 16, '57, to Charlotte Leeper, in Fair-
view township. They have had 7 children, 6 of whom are living.
Mr. and Mrs. P. are members of the M. E. Church. Mr. Pool be-
gan in life poor, and has gained a large farm which is well improved
and stocked. His brother, Joseph Pool, went to California in 1858,
and died there in 1859. Mrs. Pool's brother, John Leeper, married
a sister of Gov. Cullom. P. O., Avon.
A. P. Potter, farmer ; P. O., Avon ; son of Nathan B. and Lucy
(Northrop) Potter; was born in Sussex county., N. J., Jan. 21, '27,
and came to this county in 1858. He enlisted, Aug. 22, '62, in the
late war, and was discharged June 29, ^Qi) ; was taken prisoner near
Scottsborough, and afterward exchanged. He has held local offices,
Mr. P. was married Jan. 26, '48, to Elizabeth B. Crate, of New
Jersey, by whom he had 10 children ; 7 of them are living. E. Y.
C. and Lucy D. are married. He is a member of the Presbvterian
Church. Mr. P. has cleared over 100 acres of land in the timber.
Alvah S. Ric/idrdson was born in Harrison Co., Md., Sept. 8, '36,
and is the son of Pliny and Elizabeth (Pierce) Richardson, who
started West in an ox wagon when Mr. R. was but JO days old, and
settled in Knox Co., 111. Mr. Richardson was educated in the
common schools of Knox Co., and settled in this county in 1868;
was married, April 1, '57, to Ann Eliza Dagget, by Chas. B.
Housh, J. P., in Warren Co. Mrs. R. was born in Knox county
April 1, '39. They are the parents of 11 children, of whom 9 are
living, — Eden S., Samuel A., Rodric R., Sarah E., Harmonia,
Christina W., Minerva C, Orpha D., and John P. They are Uni-
versalists. He is a farmer and stock-raiser. P. O., Avon.
Gen. Leonard F. Boss. This well-known and distintruished cen-
tleman is a native son of Fulton Co., having been born at Lewis-
51
894 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
town, July 18, '23. His father, Ossian M. Ro.ss, was the founder of
Lewistown, and fifjured very prominently in the early history of the
eounty. His mother, Mary Ross, nee Winans, died in Peoria in
1875, at the ripe old aj»;e of 82. 'V\\c General received most of his
education in his father's private school, tutored hy Chas. E. Blood,
who since died in Knox Co. He attended Illinois College, at Jack-
sonville, one year. Pie was the first Secretary of the Fulton Co.
A<2:ricultural Society, and the first President of the Avon Agri-
cultural Society. During the Mexican war the General served
as Lieutenant of Co. K, 4th 111. Inf. He has in his possession a
blood-stained sword taken at Cerro Gordo. Mr. R. organized the
first company (Co. H, 17th III. Inf.) that went from Fulton county
during the Rebellion. Of this com])any he was clK)sen captain, but
upon arrival in camp he was elected Colonel, and in April, 18(j2,
was promoted to Brigadier General. He participated in some of the
most hotly contested engagements during the entire struggle for
Union and supremacy of the General Government, and by superior
judgment and having the unshaken confidence of his men, won
some great victories. Prior to the war he was a Democrat, politic-
ally, but took a determined stand fi)r the Union, and won laurels
while defending it that will cause his name to live throuy;h future
ages in American history. He then acted with the Ivcjniblican
party until the ''salary grab" in 1872, when he affiliated with the
Independents until, recently, he returned to the Republican
party. Besides occupying responsible positions in both the Mexican
and civil wars, Mr. Ross has filled the offices of Probate Justice
and County Clerk of Fulton Co., also Police Magistrate, Collector
of Internal Rievenue, Supervisor and minor positions. He was
twice defeated fi)r Congress, but was a strong candidate for his
ticket. He never sought any office except that of County Clerk.
He was married to Catharine M. Simms Nov. 13, 1845. She bore
him 7 children, lie married a second wife in the person of Mary
E. Warren Jan. 10, 18(35, by whom he has 4 children. Of all his
children 1 is living. The General is engaged in farming and breed-
ing Devon cattle. He has some fine herds, some of which took the
j)remium last year (1878) at the St. Louis National Fair, and some
at the Illinois State Fair. P. O., Avon.
David M. Stump, dealer in agricultural implements, Avon, is one
of the leading and representative men of this township.
Stephen Tomjjklns, merchant, Avon, is a son of Brownell Tomp-
kins, and was born Jan. 17, 1815, in Madison Co., N. Y. ; renioved
to Galesburg, 111., and entered the farm he now owns adjoining
Avon, and a portion of the present town plat of Avon, in '37, and
in '38 removed to his land and began imjiroving it. Mr T. is a
much married man, having married three sisters: Mary F., Ethel-
inda (i. and Julia P. Woods. His love aif'airs are rather sadly
romantic. He first became attached to Mary, and as her father was
about to start to this country, Mr. T. could not think of forever
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 895
partinp^ with the one he so dearly loved, hence he also started for
Illinois, but was })erniitted to live but a short time with her until
she was called away by death. He shortly afterward married Eth-
elinda, who also died in a short time. He then returned to the
house of his double father-in-law and took the remaining daughter,
with whom he has since ha]i])ily lived. They have had 8 children
born to them, — 7 boys and one girl, 4 of whom are living. When
he first settled here he followed shoemaking and began keeping a
few groceries, after which he established the first store in Avon, and
is still in business in this place with his sons, Albert B. and Stephen
L. In '41 he erected a tannery, which he operated for several
years; and in 1856 built the Avon flouring-mill, at a cost of
^20,000.
Joshua G. Walker, farmer, P. O., Avon ; son of Hugh Walker,
was born in Lewis county, Ky., Oct. 6, 1831. His parents brought
him to this country when but 4 years old; received his education in
a log school-house with pap-^r windows and slab benches ; has served
the people as Supervisor of Union township: is now one of the
Trustees of Hedding College, Abingdon. He was married March
28, 1854, to iSIinerva Brown, who was born in Fulton county, June
18, 1831. They have had 9 children, eight of whom are living.
Both are members of the M. E. Church. Mrs. W.'s grandfather,
Samuel Barrows, served in the war of the Revolution, and she still
preserves a lock of his silver hair, which was black when taken from
his head. She also jireserves his wine vessel, which is in the shape
of a barrel, and holds about a pint.
George Woods was born in Sullivan, N. Y., June 5, 1831, and is
the son of Asa Woods, who came to this county with his family in
1836. They came in a two-horse wagon, and M'cre on the road six
weeks, and the old gentleman was sick nearly the entire time. Asa
Woods' brother, Salem Woods, came to McDonough Co., 111., in
1831, and still lives on the farm he first entered. The subject of
this sketch, Mr. George Woods, attended the first school in Union
township. It was taught by a Mr. Davis. He was married, Dec.
20, 1854, to Sarah A. Parkin, who is a native of England, and was
born July 4, 1832. They have 5 children, 1 boy and 4 girls. Mr.
W. is engaged in farming. P. O., Avon.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
SUPERVISORS.
L.H. Bradbury 1S50 Thomas Vandecar 1864
J. G. Gallet 1851 D. H. Gorliam 18()5-67
L. H. Bradbury 1852 F. H. Merrill 18(58-69
S. Babbitt 1853 Leonard F. Ross 1870
John Gallet 1854 J. G. Walker 1871
James Kobb 1855 Silas Babbitt 1872
D. M. Stump 1856 L. H. Hewett 1873
M. Gutridgre 1857-58 James T. Sta<rgs 1874-75
Robert VV. Townsend 1859 James F. Mings 1876-77
Isaac Cunningham 1861-62 Frederick H. Merrill 1878-79
Stephen Tompkins 1863
89(5
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
TOWN CLERKS.
Isjiac F. Babbitt 1850-52
A. BaMwin 1853-54
George Simmons 1855-60
Thomas Cnibh 1861
Naaman Snively 1862
H. V. D. Voorliees 1863-71
A. J.Churchill 1872-75
Mark Uil.-rv 1876-77
George \V. 'Abbott 1878
James R. Shawcross 1879
ASSESSORS.
F. H. Rohy 1850
Ansting ilattinglv 1851
Isaac Babbitt .' 1852
E. M. Clements 1S53
J. Mings 1854-55
Isaac Babbitt 1856
D. C. Woods 1857
P. H. Smith 1858
George Simmons 1859
E. M. Clements 1860
J. M. Mattinglv 1861-62
D. H. Gorham' 1863
L. McGarraugh 1864
M. Head 1865
L. R. Thorp 1866-67
Giles Crissey 1868
Geoige Simmons 1869
Jerome B. Hatch 1870-71
James Staggs 1872
M. R. Gutridge 1873
J.W.Fisher 1874
James F. Mings 1875
D. H. Gorham 1876-79
COLLECTORS.
George R. Tippett 1850-51
Isaac Cunningham 1852-53
George Simmons 1854
Isaac Cunningham 1855-58
W. S. Woods 18.59-60
Oliver Crissev... 1861-62
A. Harrod..." 1863
James McGowen 1864
David Armstrong 1 65
"VVra. Stewart 1866
Job Babbitt 1867
L. R. Thorp 1868-69
Chas. Edmonson 1870
John W. Thorp 1871
L. A. Hall 1872
\V. B.Stoddard 1873-74
A. B. McFarland 1875
Geo. Simmons 1876
M. K. Shaw.russ 1877
Luther J. Adams 1878
John M. Heller 1879
VERMONT TOWNSHIP.
One of the best improved townships in Fulton county is the one
the history of which we now write; yet to attempt a history of the
township separate and distinct from that of the town woukl be to
recapituhite or repeat in a great measure what is to be said of the
town of Vermont. Hence witli a few references to some of the
leading historical items of the township, we will pass to the history
of the town.
It is probable that Moses Davis was the first settler to locate in
the township, who came as early as 1832 and erected his cabin one-
half mile southwest of where the town of Vermont is located. The
first Church was that of the Protestant Methodist denomination, and
was organized in 1843. The society erected a building the same
year. The first school-house was built in 183G on the Public
Square in Vermont. It was constructed of hewn logs. James
Spicer taught the first school in the same year. The first saw-mill
in the township was built by Job Bogue in 1838 or '39. The first
grist-mill was built by Rhodes Dilwortii in Vermont in 1840. The
first tannery was erected by James Boyle in 1843. On the farm of
Jonathan Bogue stands the first barn that was ever erected in the
township. It was built by Jesse Cox about the time of Job Bogue's
settlement in this township.
By 1844 there were quite a number of settlers in the tp. Among
them were Isaac Cadwallader, John Evans, the Deane family, Stephen
Lindsey, Josiah Zull, Thomas Holmes, J. P, and J. W. Powell,
Wm. Marshall, Mr. Chaddock and others.
At this date and jireviously there were no frame houses in the
township and very little land under cultivation, and su})j)li('s fi)r
settlers were obtained at Lewistown and St. Louis. A horse-mill
located on Spoon river and a little water mill on Potatoe creek, built
by Mr. P. Williams in 1832, supplied the settlers with their grist.
Considerable time, however, was consumed by the pioneers in se-
curing a sufficient quantity of meal to run the family larder.
As immigration set in rapidly westward, the township soon be-
came thickly settled by an industrious, energetic people whose en-
terprise has brought Vermont to the front rank among the townships
of the county. Among the leading farmers of Vermont township
outside the town wiio have contributed most largely to the devel-
opment of the resources of the county, we mention the names of
Jonathan Bogue, T. C. Robinson, Joseph Robinson, J. W. Robin-
89;^ HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
son, J. H. Marshall, John Fleming, Samuel Etnier, Isaac Cadwalla-
der, Abraham Kost, Granville Wright, Nicholas Hipslcy, J. D. and
Geo. W. Powell, Reuben Kinsey (who planted the first vineyard),
Charles Russell, Evan Fremont, Thos. Holmes and others.
The simplicity of agricultural implements in early days may be
more readily conceived from the following incidents, as related by
W. G. Clark : The old wooden mold-board plow then in general use
would not scour in the tough prairie soil, and Talman Litchfield,
disgusted at having to clean his plow every rod or two, offered to
deed 50 acres of land to any one who would produce a plow that
would scour itself ISIr. Clark, who was then in very limited cir-
cumstances, thought this an excellent opportunity to obtain some
real estate without expense, and accordingly he and Warren Vail, a
blacksmith, manufactured one which was very similar to those now
in use. It worked exceedingly well, keeping itself perfectly bright.
This was the first really improved plow in Vermont township.
Mr. Litchfield was now asked to fulfill his agreement and deed the
land ; but this he refused to do. Consequently a lawsuit was under-
taken, and a sort of mock trial was had in the old log school-house
at Vermont, where much joking, laughing speech-making and flow-
ing of whisky ended the contest.
As illustrative of the happiness of some of the pioneers, the fol-
lowing was told by Mr. Cassidy, of this township : During the earli-
est settlement of this countrv there dwelt at Barker's Grove a man
named Osborn, who lived alone in a small cabin. When the deep
snow of 1830-1 fell his humble abode was almost obliterated under
a heavy drift of snow. As the snow remained upon the ground for
several months, some of those who had settled in his vicinity be-
came uneasy about him ; and having discussed the matter among
themselves, they determined to rescue the man or furnish him pro-
visions. Accordingly several citizens, laden with provisions, made
their way over the crust that had formed upon the snow to his cabin.
When within a short distance of his house, they heard the sound of
a violin, and when they entered the rude home, the supposed corjise,
or at least invalid, was found with his face wreathed in smiles and
enjoying the sweet strains of his violin, and his only visible means
of support was one, solitary half-gallon of corn meal.
VERMONT.
This is one of the most attractive and beautifully situated towns
in Fulton countv. It contains many as handsome residences as can
be found anywhere in this part of the State. As an old land-mark
of this county, the history of its growth, past and present, will no
doubt be a[)preciated by those who have been instrumental in
its growth and bv those whose settlement in the county has been of
recent date. As much of our history is obtained from the original
pioneers who came from the sunny South and the enterprising East,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 899
we shall, before entering upon any detailed description of Vermont,
mention the names and dates of arrival of many whose honorable
record and business thrift have made them respected in the com-
munity, where many years of trying and eventful life have brought
them their reward.
James J. Crail came here in March, 1833, and settled permanent-
ly in 1834; Joab Mershon located here during the autumn of 1838,
James Dil worth in 1837, Henrv Nelson in 183G, Eliakim Kirkbride
in 1839, Ezra Dilworth in 183"?, Dr. \Vm. H. Nance in 1841, S. F.
Hoopes in 1841, James A. Russell in 1847, Col. Thos. Hamer in
1845, Edward and Patterson Hamer in 1854, Cephas Toland about
the year 1841, Emer Dilworth in 1837, Robert Dilworth was born
in the township in 1833 and was brought into town in 1839, Ed-
ward Webster settled here in 1850, and others.
James and Joseph Crail were the founders of Vermont, They
were Kentuckians by birth and came from Indiana to Vermont in
1833, as above stated, but did not locate permanently until the fol-
lowing year. They had purchased an 80-acre tract of land, which
is now within the corporate limits of the town ; and seeing the ne-
cessity of a town in this part of the county, they determined on
founding one. Assisted by Jonas Rawalt, County Surveyor, who at
present resides in Orion town^h p, in 1835 they began a preliminary
survey for the town, and ere long the 80 acres just mentioned was
platted into town lots. These lots sold quite readily and at fair
prices to the few pioneers who then dwelt within the limits of Ver-
mont township. Jas. Crail built the first dwelling, which was a
small frame buiiding, and is nowoccui)ied by Mrs. Nlargaret Collins.
Mr. Joseph Crail, a brotiier of the well-known James J. Crail who
resides in Vermont, and who died in Kansas several years ago,
erected the sectond residence. The first store building was rected in
1837 bv xMr. G. Reeves.
Digressing a little from detailing first occurrences, we will relate
the circumstances under which Vermont was named. In early day
the " little brown jug " was thought to be an indispensable article
among the pioneers. Mr. Crail was at a loss to know what the
name of the town should be. At the general sale of lots, which
was held shortly after the laying out of the town, much discussion
and jesting was indulged in on this point; for, be it known, the
early settlers were inveterate jokers, and they never lost an oppor-
tunity for a little fun. Abitlia Williams, said to be an eccentric
character, proposed to Mr. Crail that if the naming of the town
was left to him he would see that a gallon of whisky would be
forthcoming. The proposition was accepted and the bidders for lots
when they were sold pa"took freely, and then, as now, no doubt,
somj felt considerably exhilarated. Mr. Williams was a native of
the Green M)untain State, and accordingly selected for the name
of the town " Vermont," in honor of his State. Jonas Rawalt, the
surveyor, had suggested the name of '* Meridian," owing, no doubt,
900 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
to his knowledge of latitude and longitude, and as the town was
located only one-half a mile from the fourth principal meridian.
During the autumn of 1837 Wm, Dilworth and Jesse Cox set-
tled in the township, and the following year moved into the village.
There were at that time perha{)s a dozen buildings, log and frame,
in the place. A postotfice, of course, was a necessity to the pioneers,
and accordingly, in a rough round-log building in the vicinity of
David Kirkbride's hotel, a postoffice was started. Wm. jSIcCurdy
and A. G. Frisbie were postmasters, and mail was carried once a
week bv A. G. Frisbie first, who made the trip to Bernadotte with
a little mail bag thrown over his shoulders. After him James Crail
was carrier. The trip was made on horseback, and often Mr. Crail
carried the mail in his hat. The postage ranged according to dis-
tance, from 6i cents to 25 cents on each letter. In those days let-
ters were not enclosed in envelopes, but were folded and sealed in a
mysterious way and bore an undisguised appearance of quiet dig-
nity. Very often considerable skirmishing around had to be done
by the settlers to procure the necessary 25 cents to get the long
looked-for letter from relatives hundreds of miles away.
In 1837 there were three small general stores in the place. Trade
was quite limited, and the three merchants did not continue in
business a great length of time. Wm. Dilworth started a general
merchandise store in 1840, and the same year Rhodes Dilworth
built the first steam mill, which is supposed to be the first in the
Military Tract. Customers came from a distance of 50 or 60 miles
to this mill. Goods were purchased from St. Louis, transported to
the most convenient landings on the river and hauled from there in
wagons. During the winter of 1838 salt sold as high as 6^ cents
per pound ; subsequently it sold readily for 8 cents per pound. It
was not long before the increased immigration began to tell upon
the business and prosperity of the town. In 1838 Joab Mershon,
poor and unknown, entered the town, and for several years engaged
in shoemaking. In 1841, with a light capital but an abiding faith
in the future prosj)erity of the town, he entered into business, erect-
ing a two-story brick building on the east side of the Square. This
was at the time the only store in the place, and from the start Mr.
Mershon transacted a very good business. The following year
Enos Monohan,a Christian preacher, bought a small building south
of town and entered into comi)etition with Mr. Mershon.
Previous to 1850 the several merchants of the place, besides those
■we have mentioned, were Edward Staplefi)r(l, who kept a general
store, John J. Lynn and James Dilworth. In 1842 the American
House was built l)y the present proprietor and J. W. Kelly. It was
then 18 by 20 feet, and two stories in height, and erected of brick.
It was looked upon by the citizens with something akin to pride.
In 1840 a grist-mill was built by Rhodes Dilworth and William
Fellon, west of the Square, 40 by 40 feet. This was a three-story
frame building, and was really the main stay and hope of the town
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 901
for some time. It brought many customers from the remote parts
of this and adjoining counties, to the joy ol" its enterprising proprie-
tors. About this time James Boyle erected a small building, and
in connection with Robert Anderson built a tannery, which estab-
lishment boasted but little of the modern and improved machinery
of this day, the process of tanning then requiring weeks. Being
only moderately successful, they sold to Cephas Toland, Avho trans-
acted quite a large and successful business. Still a second tannery
was found to be necessary, — at least it was thought so. The pro-
prietors of this one were Heizer & Stevens, who built a tan-yard
in the western part of town.
In 1844 or '45 a saw-mill was erected. The first saw-mill was
run i)y horse and ox tread power, but was turned into a steam grist-
mill in 1845. The saw- mill drew but little trade to the town and
proved un})rofitable to its owners, and accordingly it was converted
into a carding-mill. This, it appears, was not a financial success,
and accordinglv the maehinerv for a distillerv soon arrived and the
manufacture of the ardent began. This was perhaps a more suc-
cessful bid for a little of the hard-earned money of the pioneers.
The distillery was run about 4 years and was then converted into
what was known as the East Grist-Mill. About this time Benj.
Swartz and John Evans ran a shoe-last factory. In 184G a general
merchandise store was opened by Winans & Smith ; in 1849 by
Stevens, Heizer & Winans.
For a time the town grew quite rapidly and it often presented a
very busy aspect. As the westward flow of emigration was great,
many were attracted to this pleasantly situated town. The sur-
rounding country was fertile, the land (>asily cultivated and yielded
large quantities of wheat and other cereals; and ere many years
had rolled around, all the Congress and patent land in the township
was occupied. Vermont enjoyed a season of prosj^erity lasting for
several years. Main street was often crowded with t-eams, some-
times extending for a distance of half a mile, being a solid mas§ of
wagons. Large quantities of pork were packed here in early day,
which was hauled to landings on the river, put aboard steamboats
and shipj)ed south.
The following detailed account of the cholera of 1851 was pre-
pared by Esquire H. S. Jacobs and published in the Lcwistown
Democrat June 5, 1879:
THE CHOLERA OF 1851.
It will be remembered that this scourge appeared in New Orleans
in the fiill of 1848, and raged there during the following winter. It
made its appearance in St. Louis in February, 1849. The first case
was attended by Prof. Barber, of McDowell's Medical College. The
faculty laughed at him for pronouncing it cholera; but in a few days
after Dr. Barber himself died with it. The doctors then gave the
alarm, and great preparations were made to stay its jirogress. But
902 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
it spread rapidly, and that, together -with the great fire of May 17th
which swept away a great part of the city, seemed to blight the
prospects of the growing city. The cholera continued there during
the summers of 1850-51.
About the first of June, 1851, Esq. Jechoniah Langston went
from here to St. Louis on business. Soon after his return he was
taken ill. Not knowing the disease to be cholera, the people at-
tended to him as was the custom. He died on the 7th of June.
The remains were taken to the church of which he was a member,
and a funeral preached, the coffin opened, and the body viewed by
those present. The weather was very warm, with southeasterly
winds and frequent rains.
John McHenry and several of his family were taken down the
day after Langston's death. There not being room in his house for
all of them, he was taken to the Christian church, where he received
all the care and attention that was possible; but he died shortly
after. Four of his children died — Samuel on the 8th, Enos on the
10th, Thomas B. on the 12th, and Mary A. on the 17th of June.
On the r2th a young man named Thomas Kent Woodward died at
the American House, and on the same day another young man,
a stranger, died at Nathan Soarl's. On the 20th a young man by
the name of Wm. Haney, employed as clerk for Dr. John Hughes,
died. Mrs. Elizabeth Hughes, wife of the Doctor, died on the i9th.
Mrs. Mary E. Blanton, a friend of the Doctor and his fimily, was
taken ill about this time and died on the 2."kl. Two colored boys
also died at this house, — one on the 21st and one on the 23d. \Vm,
Boswell, a saddler, also died on the 21st.
Dr. Isaac B. Bacon, who had recently come to the place, and wlio
had gained quite a reputation for his close attention to the sick,
came home fiHjm the country with the disease about dark on the
evening of the 27th, and died about dayligiit the next morning.
James B. Fowler and a Mr, Frankenbury lost two children each ab(nit
this time. Wm. P. and Rebecca J. Edie died on the 28d and 24th
respectively. Grandfather Euclid Mercer was buried about this
time. As the friends returned from his burial, the man who made
his coffin (a Mr. Murphy) came for Dr. Nance to go and see his
mother-in-law. The Doctor with I. B. Witchell went out there.
The man met them at the door, and showed clear symptoms of
cholera. They were both buried before 12 o'clock that night. John
Kirkbride, a brother of David Kirkbride, died June 27th, on the
farm beyond Sugar creek, in McDonough county, now owned by
Robert Andrews. His brother Eliakim died in town a few days
after. ^Irs. Jane Andrews, mother of Robert, died at the house of
Joseph Crail July 4th. Bird Anderson, brother of Mrs. Cephas
Toland, was taken down about this time. He was thought to be
dead, his coffin was ])repared and ])re]>arations for his burial made.
But he recovered and lived to serve his country faitiifully in the war
of 18G1, removed to Kansas where he died five or six years ago. A
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 903
young woman named INIaria A. Patterson died at the Hayes House
July "id. David Merrick died on his farm just west of town July
11th. Elizabeth, wife of John A. Craij^ and sister to Mrs. William
Alexander, died on the 24th, and her sister, Mrs. Taylor, died soon
after. Oscar D., son of James A. and Elizabeth Russell, died Aug.
1st. Julia A., wife of Wm. Hayes, died July 31st. Philip Weaver
died August 27th ; Elizabeth Davis August 6th, and Richard C.
Johnson, brother of Mrs. T. Hamer and Mrs. J. A. Russell, on
Sept. 3d. Lemuel Burson, one of those who waited on the sick
during the whole time, was taken down among the last cases and
went to join those he had helped to care for.
These are the names of a majority of those who died, although
there were others whose names we could not get. There were also
many others who recovered.
Mr. Witchell says he waited on some seventy cases. During the
prevalence of this dread disease in our midst many cases of extreme
sadness occurred, and some that were mirth-provoking — among the
latter being a man who came to town with a lump of tar sticking
under his nose. All business was suspended, except to furnish what
w'as needed for the sick and dead. Mr. Mellor kept open the store
of Stephens & Winans for that purpose.
During this trying time Mansfield Patterson kept the Hayes
House, and kept his table set at all hours for those waiting upon the
sick and dvino-.
In this, as in all cases of the prevalence of epidemic or contagious
disease, a few persons took hold and in a systematic manner waited
on and cared for every one of the sick during the whole time of this
dreadful calamity, forgetting self and thinking only of tlie suffering
around them. Most prominent among these were the following:
Isaac B. Witchell, Cej)has Toland, John jSIathewson, Joseph B.
Royal, H. S. Thomas, Mansfield Patterson, Wm. Mellor, C. B. Cox,
Lemuel Burson and David Clark. Among the ladies who assisted
in this noble work were Mrs. Elizabeth Westlake, Mrs. Martha
Burr, Mrs. Sarah M. Witchell, Mrs. America Toland and Mrs. Pat-
terson ; and many a poor sufferer had the benefit of their kind care
and attention. But of these only Mrs. Toland and Mrs. Burr sur-
vive. Mr. Clark, after the cholera ceased here, went to Bluff City
where the cholera soon made its appearance. He again waited on
and nursed the sick, was himself taken down and died, being the
last case.
Of all these it can truly be said, they did all that men and women
could do during that trying time, and during all these 28 years since,
those who survive have ever been ready and willing to aid the sick
and relieve the distressed wherever and whenever their services were
needed, and this without ostentation or display. Such self-sacrifice
will never go unrewarded.
No person is more to be remembered for what he did during
those trying days than Esq. H. S. Jacobs.
904 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
SCHOOLS.
Early in the history of the town Churches and schools were estab-
lished. At first religious services were held in j)rivate houses and
an old log Iniilding that remained for a number of years on what is
now the Public Square; and in this the pioneer boys and girls were
instructed in the " three R's," — " Readin', 'Ritin' and 'Rethmetic,"
these being the only studies then in vogue ; and yet there were grad-
uated— if so it might be termed — from tiiis humble cabin a class of
men who vie with any throughout the county, of a wider field of
learning, in wealth, intelligence and enterprise. Their old familiar
school-teacher, Wni. McCurdy, with his kindly ways and strict
honesty, will long be remembered by many who now are prominent
as farmers and business men.
At present the town of Vermont is well up with the other towns
of the county in the educational advantages offered. There are two
graded schools, known as the North and the South schools. Prof.
Brake presides as principal of the North school. The number of
scholars in attendance at this school is about 150, and the several
teachers, besides the principal are Misses AskcNV, Searles and Miller.
The school building is constructed of brick, pleasantly located and
substantially built, at a cost of several thousand dollars. The
graded school known as the South school contains about 130 scholars.
The principal is Miss Narcissa Bates, and the other teachers are R.
Sergeant and Miss Jennie Gilbert. This is a handsome two-story
brick structure located in the southern part of the city. The
Board of Directors for the North school is composed of Edward
Hamer, Henry Daugherty and Elwood Sidwell. 'I'he Board for the
South school is composed of Jesse Bogue, Aaron Bellange and Ezra
Dilworth.
CHURCHES.
Methodist Church. — The early settlers assembled in the old
school-house and dwellings for religious worship and to listen to the
circuit preachers as they made their monthly visits. Early in the
history of the town the Methodist Church was organized. A fine
frame church building was erected in the northern part of the town,
and is the largest church structure in the place.
The Presbyterian Church of Vermont was also organized in early
day, and a house of worship erected in the southeastern part of
town.
The Christian Church was organized in November, 1847. Fol-
lowing are some of the original members : J. H. Hughes, J. B.
Royal (since Pastor), J. G. F. Henderson, S. Frankcnbury, Cephas
Tolaud, J. Langston, AVm. Schooley, L. D. Cleringer, Robert An-
drews and many others. About this time the present church struc-
ture was built. ' It is situated on North Union street. The several
pastors have been Elders J. B. Royal, J. B. Corwin, Wm. Grif-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 905
fin, Henry Smither, P. D, Vermillion (the present Pastor), H, T.
Butf, D. K. Shields and others. At present the membership is
large, numbering over 200, and among those who take a leading
position in the Church we mention John A. Gilliland, Ebenezer
Freeman, Wm. Worsdell, H, S. Jacobs, John A. Webster, and
Cephas Tohuul. Among the ladies are Mrs. America Toland,
Elvira Toland, Martha A. DeFraine, P]lizabeth Hamer and Mrs. C.
M. Parker. It is quite probable that the Vermont Church is the
strongest Christian Church in the county. Elder P. D. Vermillion,
the present Pastor, is a gentleman of ability and high culture, and
is well qualified for the position he holds. He is a native of Ken-
tucky, brought up in Sangamon county. 111., and came to Fulton
county in 1872.
MISCELLANEOUS.
The Vermont Library Association was organized in 1858, with a
fund created by an association of the women of the place known as
the Vermont Ijadies' Sewing Society, and a contribution of books
by the ladies and gentlemen of the community. The institution
prospered finely until the suffering contlition of the sick and wound-
ed soldiers in the army during the late war rallied all the interests,
sympathies and exercises of the women into the sanitary work for
the soldiers' relief and comfort, when it was entirely neglected until
years after the war closed. The library now contains 500 volumes,
and is in a prosperous condition.
Bank. — As the town grew in importance, a bank for the purpose
of exchange, loans and deposits became necessary, and accordingly
Joab Mershon, with his usual enterprise and having ample capital,
set about the erection of a suitable building for this purpose. He
had previously purchased a good jwrtion of town property, and in
1868 laid the foundation for the present handsome and substantial
bank building and public hall, known as Mershon's Hall. This is
one of the finest brick buildings in the countv.
The several Fo-'<t masters of Vermont have been Wm. McCurdy,
A. G. Frisbie, Joab Mershon, Lewis Kelly, Moses Mathewson, A.
G. Herron, H. S. Thomas, Horace Johnson, H. Kirkbride, John
T. Evans, John H. Hunter and H. S. Thomas, the present incum-
bent, who has officiated in this capacity for a period of 16 years.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
Adams & Sexton, wagon-makers and blacksmiths, Vermont ; have
been associated in business four years ; Jonas Adams was born in
this county in 1849, learned his trade at Springfield, 111., worked
a^ journeyman in Vermont, and in 1875 entered partnership with
Mr. Sexton. James Sexton, born in Madison Co., O., in 1833,
emigrated with his parents in 1844 to a point about 8 miles north
of EUisville, this county; at the age of 19 he learned carriage-
906 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
making; at Canton, and in I860 came to Vermont and followed his
trade. During the war lie enli.sted in Co. F, 84th 111. Inf., and
was honorably discharged in March, 1863, on account of physical
debility.
Milton Amrine, merchant, of the firm of Amrine, Nelson & Co.,
settled in Fulton Co. in 1845. He was born in AV. Va. in 1833.
His father, Frederick Amrine, was a native of Pa., was shoemaker,
then millwright, distiller and merchant, and accumulated property
very rapidly. While in Va. he married Nancy Shepard, of Mary-
land, bv whom he had 7 children. From 1835 to 1850 the familv
resided in Illinois, mostly in Woodford Co. In 1850 Mr. Fred-
erick Amrine started for California, but death overtook him at Ft.
Bridger, near Salt Lake City. Milton married Roxana Litchfield,
daughter of Chauncey L., and they have had 10 children, 9 of
whom arc living, — ^Iahlon, Martha N., Ansel, Clover, Lucy, Ida,
May, Charley and Roscoe. In 1850 Mr. A. went to California, the
followinp; vear he returned home and since then has followed farm-
ing, except that for the last two years he has been in the mercantile
business.
Henri/ Anfield, bridge-builder and miner, was born Dec. 3, 1833,
in Yorkshire, Eng. ; his father, Wni. Anfield, was a prominent
merchant, who married Frances A. Colby, and had 11 children, 3
of whom died in infancy. Henry learned the carpenter and joiner's
trade, and in his 19th year married Eliza J. Oldfield ; in 1859 he
came to America and followed his trade at Colchester, 111., until ho
came to Fulton Co. 14 years ago ; settling at Table Grove, he fol-
lowed mining, principally, until 1868, when he removed to Ver-
mont. They have had 5 children : Charles (deceased), William,
Isabel H., Charles E., and Emily A.
Derry & Arvingdale, manufacturers and dealers in carriages, bug-
gies and wagons, etc.. Main st., Vermont. These gentlemen are
practical workmen, and their principal work is jobbing and rej)air-
iny:. Mr. J. W. Derrv is a native of this countv and learned his
trade with ^Ir. G. W. Derry in Vermont. Jacob B. Arringdale
was born in Ohio, reared in Fulton Co., and learned his trade with
Reuben Hutf. Mr. A. is said to be one of the most skillful work-
men in the State.
R. R. Atherton, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 24; P. C, Ver-
mont; was born in Harrison Co., O., in 1823; his father, Boaz A.,
was a native of Penn., where, in 1812, he was joined in matrimony
to Miss Mary Ross; the following year he settled in Ohio; in 1852
he emigrated to Vermont tp., where he died at the age of 88 years,
and his wife died soon afterward, aged 83. Mr. R. R. Atherton
married Jane Hilton in Ohio, in 1848 ; she was a daughter of Wm.
Hilton, of Ireland. In 1852 they emigrated to this tp. Children-^
Mary E., Wm., John, Kester, Ella, Boaz, Richard E. and Laura.
Evan Bailey, deceased, was born in Brooke county, W. Va., in
1805, son of Thomas Bailey, who was born in East Pennsylvania
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 907
and was a farmer. Evan married Elizabeth McHenrv, daughter of
James McHenry, of Irehind. In 1836 they emigrated to Vermont
township, settling on a piece of timbered land which he had pre-
viously purchased, where he found but an acre and a half cleared,
with a cabin on it. Here he worked and prospered and obtained a
good reputation as a citizen. In 18(38 he was elected County Treas-
urer. He was killed by a runaway «Iuly 15, 1878. He left a widow,
now in her 71st year, and 10 children, 4 having formerly died.
George Bafesnn, farmer, sec. 21 : P. O., Vermont ; was born in
Perry county, O., in 1843; his father, Lewis Bateson, was an Ohio
farmer who married Nancy Forsythe and had 12 children; they
emigrated to this tp. when George, the voungest, was about 13 years
of age; in 1862 the latter enlisted in *Co. A, 28th 111. Inf., fought
at Mobile and in several other noted engagements; honorably dis-
charged March 10, 1865.
Joseph Beam, farmer and brick-mnker, was born in Bucks Co.,
Pa., in 1814. His father, Amos Beans, was also a native of Penn.,
married Miss R. H. Congler, by whom he had 3 children. They
moved to Harrison Co., O., where Jost^ph grew up and k'arned the
mason's trade; married Abigail Rankin, daughter of John Rankin,
of Pa., in 1837; in 1844 he came to Illinois, Vermont tp., and
bought 60 acres of land from ^Morris Merrick, who had recognized Mr.
B. on his arrival here by the loss of two fingers which he, Mr. M., had
accidently cut off when they were boys 30 years before. In 1857
Mr. Beans built the largest brick dwelling-house in the township.
He has had 5 children, 4 of whom are living: Sarah J., who married
AVm. Forquer ; Amos, who enlisted in Co. B, 84th 111. Inf ; severely
wounded. John R., who was a soldier in Co. F, 65th III. Inf, and
wounded at Marietta ; George, who died in the army while enlisted
in the Union cause; Martha, who married Jas. Forquer and resides
in California; and Joseph, who enlisted in Co. G, 50th 111. Inf,
went through Sherman's campaign, returned to Fulton county,
married in 1874 Margaret Toland.
Jonathan Bogue, farmer, sec. 28 ; P. O., Vermont ; was born in
Harrison Co., O., in 1822, and about 1829 the family moved to In-
diana, and the following year to Bernadotte tp., this Co.; he built
the first house and plowed the first furrow on Ipava Prairie ; in 1850
he married Miss Emily, daughter of Thos. and Anna Robinson,
early settlers of Vermont tp., and 4 children have been born to
them, 3 of whom are living, — Job, Ruth A. and Harry.
JcHse Bogue, merchant, was the first white child born in Pleasant
tp. His father, John Bogue, was born in X. C. in 1875; at the age
of 16 he settled in Ohio, where he afterward married Mary Ann
Easley, daughter of Daniel Easley, of Virginia, by whom he had
11 children ; 10 are living at the ))resent time. The family arrived
on Ipava Prairie in the spring of 1831 and j)re-empted i sec. of
land. Here he built a cabin, obtaining help from Lewistown ;
three years afterward he moved into Vermont tp., where he built
908 HISTOllY OF FULTON COUNTY.
the first saw-mill. He dierl in 1876. Mrs. B. died in 1871. Jesse,
the 9th child, went to school in a lo^ school-honse on the gronnd
which is now the Public Scjuare in Vermont, his first teacher being
Lewis Kelly. In 1855 he married Rebecca Cox, of Fulton Co.;
in 1856 he built a steam saw-mill on Otter creek, in Vermont tp.,
where he continued until 1864, when he built a first-class grist-mill
in Vermont, of which he is still i)roprietor. In 1876 he started a
grocery on Main street, and has good success.
Robert Bogue, miller, was born in Harrison Co., O., in 1826; he
was 3 years of age when his parents emigrated with him to this
county. He worked in the saw-mill with his father and went to
school in the winter. His teachers were James Spicer (the first in
the tp.) and J. Frisbie. When of age he bought an interest in a
saw-mill at Browning, which was subsequently destroyed by fire.
He also assisted in the building of a grist-mill at Browning, and
did a fine business from 1849 to 1868, in partnership with his cousin,
John Bogue. Their fiour had a great reputation, finding its way to
remote parts of the Union ; but in the manufacturing of wagon
material they did not do so well. In 1874 he oversaw the construc-
tion of a bridge 65 feet high and 1,000 feet long over the Vermil-
lion river at Danville, — one of the best bridges in the State. He
then rented the grist-mill at Browning a 'year, and then returned to
Vermont and took charge of the mill owned by Jesse Bogue. In
1858 he married Mary A.f Marshall. Mrs. Bogue died in October,
1864; and in 1866 he married Martha J. Ramsay, daughter of \Vm.
Dunlap, and they have had two children, Sarah^aud Mary.
Jacob jBo^/fH^er^f, retired farmer, was born May 13, 1803, in Ohio,
near the Ohio river, on which water he si)ent much of his youth in
boating. April 12, 1827, he married Flizabeth Swengen in Vir-
ginia. In 1836 he and other parties built a keel-boat and sailed
down the Ohio, and Mr. B. came bv wav of St. Louis to Ver-
mont tp. Here he commenced in a very humble way, but by in-
dustry and frugality has now a good 200-acre farm. Has had 11
children: 7 survive, — Lewis, Josephus, Nancy, Martha, Fpaminon-
das, Levi and ^'m. The latter married Florence Foster and lives
on the homestead. Thev have 4 children, — Ora A., Cora, Jennie
M. and Carl D.
Cyiarlca Brown, farmer, sec. 16, and proprietor of the Brown saw-
mill, was born in Medina Co., O., in 1824. His father, Obadiah
B., was born in Connecticut and reared in the Excelsior State, where
he married Miss Clarissa Loomis. Of this union were born 13
children, the 9th of whom was Charles. About 1834 the family
moved to Indiana, where Mrs. B. died; about 1840 they moved to
Missouri, where in 1846 Charles n)arricd Miss Emeline, daughter
of Wm. Bradley, of Va. ; 1855-60 they lived in Warren Co., 111.,
and since then in Vermont tp.
John Bncy, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 4; P. O., Astoria; was
born in Jefferson Co., O., in 1813. His father, Joshua Bucy, was
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 909
born in Maryland and moved to Ohio in 1801, where he married
Ellen Ryan. John grew to manhood in Ohio, following agricul-
ture. In 18;3.3 he married Mary Ann Fellows, daughter of" Wm.
Fellows, of Maryland, by whom he had 8 children, only 4 of whom
are living, — Ellen, John, Wm. and Mary. Mrs. Bucy died March
12, 1851 ; in 1853 Mr. B. married Mary Ann Ryan, and they have
had 6 children, 4 of whom are living, — Matilda E., Sarah M.,
Nancy C, Hezekiah and George. The family emigrated to this tp.
in 1866.
Joshua Bucy, farmer, sec. 36 ; P. O., Astoria ; born in Jefferson
Co., O., in 1843; his father, John Bucy, was also born in Ohio, he
moved to DeWitt Co., 111., and after remaining there one year he
moved to Vermont township. Joshua passed his youth in Ohio,
and was liberally educated. Aug. 15, 1867, he married Mary E.
Clark, daughter of W. G. Clark. Children : John W., Minnie B.,
Ann E. and Henry R.
Lemuel Burson, deceased, was born in Guernsey Co., O., in 1818;
married Elizabeth Otters, and had 5 children, only 2 of whom sur-
vive, namely, Jesse, who is married and resides in Vermont, and
Franklin, who resides on the homestead. He died in 1854, leaving
a widow, who is still living. By trade he was first a plasterer, but
during most of his life he was a farmer.
Imac CadwaUader, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 14; P. O., Ver-
mont; born in Ohio, in 1806, and in 1829 emigrated to Lewistown,
Fulton Co., ^vith the family ; in 1830 moved to Vermont, where he
pre-empted land in 1832. He was therefore among the very earliest
pioneers in this tp. His cabin was the second or third in the tp.
He still has some of the stock of bees he took from a bee-tree 40
years ago. In 1831 he was married by Esquire John Howard (the
first settler here) to Miss Elizabeth Ackerson, a daughter of Garrett
Ackerson, of N. J., by Ayhom he has had 7 children, all of whom
are living and in comfortable circumstances, — Thos. T. ; Isaac B.
resides in Nebraska; John Garrett and Anna E. live in McDon-
ough Co. ; and Susan C. and Sarah E. reside in Fulton Co. Mr.
C.'s father, John C, was a native of Penn., where he followed farm-
ing, and where he married Ruth Bogue and had 9 children; in
April, 1806, he emigrated to Tuscarawas Co., O., where he re-
mained until 1829, when he came to this county. He died in 1866 ;
Mrs. C. died in 1843.
Leander Casmlij, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. T"; P. O., Ver-
mont; born in New York in 1832 ; reared on a farm ; liberally edu-
cated ; taught school ; in 1856 moved to Ohio and taught school a
few months, then moved to McDonough Co., 111., where he taught
for 8 years. In 1859 he married Louisa Cox, by whom he has 7
children ; in 1865 he moved to Fulton Co., settling in this tp.
John Chaddock, farmer, sec. 24; P. O., Vermont; was born here
in 1833, son of James and Lydia (Mercer), natives of Ohio; his
father came on foot to Illinois, and being overtaken by the deep
53
910 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
snow (1830-31), he became diseonraged and returned to Ohio in the
spring, but in 1833 he settled permanently in this county ; he died in
1868, and his wife died when John was but 10 years of age; the
latter received a liberal education ; in the last war he enlisted in
Yates' Battalion of sharpshooters, and was in many a sharp encounter.
He married Mahala B. Petty, daughter of John Petty, of Indiana,
and their children are Minnie, Irving and Jesse.
W. G. Clark, farmer, sec. 36 ; P. O., Astoria ; born in Ohio in
1812; his father, John Clark, was born in Maryland, and died in
Ohio when the subject of this sketch was very young; Nov. 26,
1834, the latter married Rachel Knock, of Delaware, and they are
parents of 6 children, 3 of whom are living, — John, ^\'esley and
Elliza. In 1842 the family emigrated in a covered wagon to Berna-
dotte tp., this county, took 80 acres of wild land, exce]>t a few acres
around a log cabin and a saw-mill, formerly owned by Moore
Marshall, the builder. Mr. C. ran this mill until the late war, when
his two sons, John and Weslev, left for Uncle Sam's service. Mr.
Clark's first wife died Oct 1, 1843, and he married Elizabeth Tray-
nor, March 22, 1844, and they have 4 children, — Mary, Rachel,
Henry and Jane.
S. Cochran, barber, was born in Pennsylvania in 1851 ; his father,
Jesse C, emigrat(!d with him to Iowa, where Snowden (our subject)
grew to manhood and received a liberal education. He moved to
Clinton, Mo., and married Lizzie Montgomery, and came to Ver-
mont in 1876, where he has since followed his vocation with great
success.
Caleb Cox, deceased, was a merchant and banker of Vermont.
He was born in Pennsylvania in 1833, the 3d son of Jesse and
Therdisa Cox, who settled in this Co. in 1837, in Vermont tp. ; he
received a liberal education, and Oct. 18, 1860, married Anna "Wil-
kinson, of Pennsylvania, whose parents emigrated to this county
about 23 years ago. At the beginning of the war he enlisted in Co. F,
84th 111. Inf , was first elected Captain and afterward Major, and
served faithfully until the war closed. Was in many battles, nota-
bly that of Murfreesboro. He then returned to Vermont, bought
property, and in 1868 he became an C(iual partner with Joab Mer-
shon and organized the Vermont Bank. In 1871 he erected one of
the finest residences in the county. In 1S()() he was elected to the
Legislature, the first Republican representative from Fulton Co.,
He was an energetic business man, very jjopular, but while yet in
the prime of life he took sick and died, leaving a widow and 7 chil-
dren,— Wilmer, Theodore, Mary, Olive, Edward, Howard and
Sherman.
Geo. Co.r, farmer, etc., sec. 18; P. O., Vermont; M^ars born in
Guernsey Co., O., in 1847 ; his father, Thomas Cox, settled in Mc-
Donough Co. in pioneer times ; George was brought up on a farm ;
in 1868 he purchased his present farm. In 1867 he married Nancy
Craigo, by whom he has three children, — Granville, Maud and
Edna.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 911
Jesse Cox, retired, was born in Chester Co., Pa., in 1807, of
Quaker parents, who were of Enp;lish descent. Thomas Cox, father
of Jesse, grew to manhood in Penn., where he followed the two
callings of carpenter and farmer; he married Elizabeth Messer, and
they had 5 children, of whom Jesse was the third. The ])arent8
died in Penn. Jesse learned the carpenter's trade ; married Theo-
dosia Mershon, daughter of Henry Mershon, of N. Y., July 27,
1829, in Penn.; came to Vermont in 1837, followed carpentering,
built the first store (of any note) in Vermont, and both grist-mills;
he was the first Justice of the Peace, serving 8 years in this capacity ;
has been Supervisor; in 1841 he purchased i sec, and afterwards
J sec. more, and one year he raised the largest crop of wheat ever
raised in the county, shipping 350 barrels to St. Louis one day.
Mrs. C. died July 8, 1871, leaving 4 children, — Samuel, Henry,
Rebecca and Mary.
iSamue^ Co.r, agriculturist, sec 12; P.O., Vermont. Forty-two
years ago Jesse Cox, the father of Samuel, moved from Chester Co.,
Pa., to this county. He married Theodosia, sister of Joab Mershon,
of Vermont, and came to this township, where he now resi('es.
Samuel was 4 years of age when his parents came here. He grew
to manhood npon the farm, received a good common-school educa-
tion. In Sept., 1854, he married Abigail Freeman, daughter of
Miushall G. F., who bore a prominent ])art in the early history of
the county. Like nearly all of the leading farmers, Mr. C. began
life poor. His children are Ann J., Jesse, Eben and Melvina.
Win. Craig, deceased, was a native of Harrison county, 111., fol-
lowed farming, married first Miss Wallace, secondly her sister and
lastly Miss Elizabeth Jamison, Isabel township, by whom he had
two children, — William and John. He emigrated to Isabel town-
ship in 1842, with some means, and has prospered, at one time own-
ing over 1,400 acres of land. He died Feb., 1871, his widow still
living.
James J. Crail, auctioneer, and founder of the town of Vermont,
was born in Kentucky, Sept. 12, 1812. His father, Wm. Crail, was
also a native Kcntuckian, a wheelwright by occupation, and mar-
ried Margaret Mayall, daughter of Joseph Mayall, a Revolutionary
soldier, who lost his property by British confiscatior. In 1834 Mr.
C. moved to Fulton county, where hp died at an advanced age.
Mrs. Crail is still living, and is in her 85th year. Of their 9 chil-
dren James J. is the eldest. He came into this township with the
family, when there were but 6 or 7 cabins here, the residents being
Wm. B. Higgins, Abraham Williams, Mr. Wright (father of Gran-
ville Wright), Issac Cadwallader and Caleb Dilworth. Mr. Crail,
of course, at that early day went through all the experiences char-
acteristic of the times, fully described in chapters I, II and X of
this volume. He saw that the citizens began to consider Havana
and Beardstown rather too far for convenience, and that there was a
demand for a business place nearer by. He selected a site and
912 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
erected a cabin on the ground now occupied by Sidwell's. Wm.
McCurdy built the second cabin, and here .subsequently these two
gentlemen carried on saddle and harness-making, and this was the
germ of the village. The next building was a frame, used as a store-
house by Greene Reeves. Other buildings went up, and directly
Mr. C, in partnership with Dr. A. M. Jolinson, started a dry-goods
and grocery store, shipping and packing. Dr. Johnson was one of
the most active and enterprising men in the early history of the
county, and did much to further the interests of Vermont. After
two or three other changes in business he, in 1850, went to Calii'ornia
with an ox team. Mr. C. still resides in Vermont.
George \V. Berry, wagon manufacturer and general blacksmith,
west side of the Square, Vermont, 111. Mr. Derry was born near
Harper's Ferry, Va., in 1824. His father, Wm. Derry, was also a
native Virginian, a farmer, who married Barbara Ross; they had 9
children. George W., the youngest, went to Freeport, Harrison
Co., O.. when a lad, and in 1841 emigrated to Astoria, 111., where
he went to school and worked at the usual rough and heavy drudg-
ery of pioneers ; worked with Franklin Fackler and Zachariah
Gilbert, learning his trade with the latter; carried on business two
years at Pulaski, Hancock Co., then resumed business at Astoria.
In 1847 he married Melinda Anderson, a daughter of James An-
derson. For a time Mr. Derry lived in Mason county; in 1853 he
settled at Vermont and put uj) his present establishment, and docs
a good business. Of his 7 children 5 arc living, namely, John and
Armadale, manufacturers of wagons and buggies in Vermont;
Wm. L., a farmer in Kansas; George L. and Elmer E., at home;
and Sarah S., who married E. Knock, of Astoria.
ir. H. Derry, school-teacher and newspaper correspondent, was
born in Freeport, Harrison Co., O., in 1842; his folks emigrated to
Vermont tp., where he grew to manhood, received a liberal educa-
tion, has taught school several terms, and been Assessor, Collector,
Justice of the Peace, and township Clerk. In 1863 he married
Miss Martha Dennison, of Ohio, by whom he has six children, —
Vietta, Alonzo, Amos, Dora, Irene and Grace. Democrat. Mr.
Derry's father, John D., emigrated from Virginia to Ohio, followed
cabinet-making and married Miss Bathia Wharton, of Ohio. They
had 8 children, 4 of whom are living and are residents of Fulton
Co., with one exception. John Derry, with his family, emigrated
to Vermont tp. in 1850, where he now resides.
Ezra Dlhrorth. During the spring of 1808 Ezra Dilworth and
Emer added to the attractiveness of Vermont in the erection of the
two-story brick business house on Main st., now owned and occu-
pied by Ezra Dilworth as a hardware store and agricultural ware-
room. Later thev erected another, which adds beautv to Main st.
As far back as 1854 Messrs. E. <^ E. Dilworth began business in a
small way, — purchasing a small one-story frame building 16x30.
This store was stocked with goods from St. Louis. The new firm,
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 913
through well directed energy, business tact and honesty, soon gained
for them a trade, and step by step they have climbed far beyond the
lowest rundle of the ladder, carrying as large a line of first-class
goods as any similar firm in the county.
James Dihoodh, agriculturist, bought a tract of land near Ver-
mont in earlv dav, while doino; a successful business as a merchant
in town ; married Elizabeth Harris, of Farmer's tp., in 1851, by
whom he had two children, Clara and AVm., who resides in Fulton
Co. Mrs. D. died in Jan., 1867. In Sept., 1869, Mr. D. married
Miss Marv Chicken, and thev have one child, Elza. Mr. D. owns
340 acres of good land, and recently has erected a fine residence.
For the past 15 years he has been School Treasurer, and has been
Township Assessor.
Rhodes, Dilworth, retired farmer, etc., was born in Chester Co.,
Pa., in 18(J0, the second child of Caleb and Ann Dilworth; at 13 he
moved to Ohio and learned the miller's trade; became proprietor of
a mill and a steamboat; came to Vernu)ut in 1837; followed farm-
ing three years; in comjiany with Wm. Felton, built a grist-mill in
Vermont; in 1848 sold out and went into the shipping business at
Browning; burned out in 1855, since which time he has been com-
paratively out of business. He married Rebecca Falk and they
had 8 ehihlren, but 2 of whom are living: Sarah, who married Joab
Mershon, and Lydia, now the wife of Dr. Clevinger.
W.a. D'liv')rt'i, deceased, w.is born in Chester county. Pa., in 1794 ;
came to Ohio in 1814, where he was a merchant and was married;
in 1837 he came and settled first in Vermont tp., following the mer-
cantile business until 1842, and then until 1847 he followed flat-
boating to New Orleans. He died :n 1863 and was buried in Ver-
mont cemetery.
David T. Dohbins, agriculturist, w:\s born in this tp. in 1849, a
son of the next mentioned. He owns and occupies the old home-
stead on sk;. 1, which is one of the best in the county.
John C. Dobbins, a w'ell-known pioneer and farmer, was born in
Clermont county, O., in 1811; was a Captain in the Black Hawk
war; in 1835 ninrried Harriet A. Miller, and next year he emigrated
to this tp. and occupied an 80-aere lot of "raw" prairie, which his
father had purchased and given him; went diligently to work and
in course of time obtained possession of 500 acres, but he has since
given each of his children 120 acres. He reserves 50 acres as a
donation to churches. His children were and are : Alexander, who
died at Nashville in the late war; Franklin, killed at the battle of
Wahatchie Bri<lge; Robert and Calvin, who enlisted in Co. H, 28th
111., and Co. D, 151st 111.; and David T., above mentioned.
R. N. Dobbins, farmer, sec. 2 ; P. O., Ipava ; born in Clermont Co.,
O., in 1814; his father, Robert B., was a native of Va., moved to
South Carolina, and after several years back to Va., where he re-
ceived a collegiate education and became a Presbyterian minister;
was an Abolitionist; in 1814 he and his young wife came to Ohio
914 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
on horseback, bringing all their possessions with them ; in 1835 they
came to Vermont, where he purchased over a section of land; he
died in 1854; Mrs. D. died in Nov., 1847. Robert N., in his 26th
year, in this tp., married Martha Jane Erving, daughter of James
Erving, of Lancaster, Pa.
Oscar Easley, farmer and mill owner, sec. 26; P. O., Vermont;
was born in Freeport, Harrison Co., O., in 1835; his father, Isaac
Easley, a native of Ohio, married Mary Norris, and they became the
parents of 11 children; in 1836 they emigrated to this tp., settling
upon 120 acres of wild land, and in a round-log cabin, when wolves
and panthers abounded here ; Mr. Easley died in 18G1 ; Mrs. E. died
in 1859. Oscar received a good education; when the war broke out
he enlisted in Co. F, 84th 111. Inf.; was in the battles of Chicka-
mauga. Stone River, Rcsaca, etc. ; honorably discharged in 1865;
for 12 years has owned a good saw-mill. In 1859 he married Amy
Freeman, daughter of Marshall Freeman, deceased. Children :
Marshall, Perry, Fred,' Lillie and Norris.
Henry Ellison, farmer, sec. 22 ; P. O., Vermont ; born Dec. 25,
1841, in Lancashire, Eng. ; his parents were Wm. and Ann (Blan-
don) Ellison, who emigrated to America when Henry was a boy,
with 6 children altogether, 4 of whom are living, all in Vermont
tp. ; they first located in Ohio, where he remained for 6 years, then
to Jefferson Co., where he stayed 3 years, and in the spring of 1852
he settled in this tp. ; they moved into McDonough Co., where Mr.
E. died; Mrs. E. died at the age of 78. Henry has remained in
this tp. ; in 1866 he married Miss Rebecca, daughter of Allen Stew-
art, of Ohio, and thev have had two children, Charles and George.
Mrs. E. died Aug. 26, 1878.
John Ellison, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 22 ; P. O., Vermont ;
was born in Lancashire, Eng., in 1835; his parents are referred to
in the above sketch ; he passed his boyhood and youth in Ohio,
where he received a liberal education ; Feb. 15, 1860, he married
Miss Cinah Sidwell, daughter of Thomas and Elizabeth Sidwell,
the former of M iryland and the latter of Peun. ; their children are
William, Edward, Thomas, Frank and Elizabeth.
Samuel Etnier, farmer, was born in Huntingdon Co., Pa., June
24, 1804. Martin Etnier, his father, was born near Boonesborough,
Md., was a soldier under George \\'ashington, afterward married
Elizabeth Proetonia and had 10 children, Samuel being the young-
est. Jn the 21st year of his age, the latter married Elizabeth
Harker, a daughter of Joseph Harker, of Penn. ; spent 4 years in
Ohio running a saw-mill, then 8 or 9 years in Penn., then near Ma-
comb, 111., and iiuully settled on a I sec. of raw prairie near Ipava.
Mrs- 15- died July 19, 1878. Mr. E.'s present wife was Miss Mary
Good, a native of Ohio.
Bell Fleming, farmer, sec. 3; P. O., Ipava. Parents, John and
Elizabeth F., the former a native of L-eland, who came to New
Brunswick in his 10th year, and ultimately to this county, where
HISTORY OF FUI.TON COUNTY. 915
in 1848 he married Elizabeth Kitt, purchased 80 acres of land and
settled down to farming;, commencing poor but now having 360
acres of valuable land and ranking among the leading farmers of
the tp. Mrs. F. died in 1<S70. Bell was born in 1853, attended a
business college, and in 1878 married a daughter of Eben Freeman,
of this tp.
Lewis Flcuri/, farmer and merchant, sec. 17; P. O., Vermont;
was born in Penn., near Pliiladelphia, in 1809; his father, Pierre
Flcurv, emigrated from France to that place in 1798, "^was a bril-
liant, well educated man, and private secretary to the French min-
ister, Petrie ; married Elizabeth Sanford in Virginia, by whom he
had 6 children ; Lewis, the eldest son, grew to manhood in Wash-
ington, learned the carpenter's trade, emigrated to Ross Co., Ohio,
in 1828, married Mary daughter of Coonrod Zimmerman, and their
children are 7, viz: Eugene, born in Kingston, Ross Co., O., Feb.
4, 1839; Mary E., born in Kingston Sept. 8, 1838, died Feb. 16,
1841; Adelaide, born Sept. 16, 1840, at the same place, died July
27, 1846; Eliza J., born Feb. 16, 1842, same place, and married
D.ivid Bell; Jiilia, born Oct. 16, 1843, and married Robert Bailey;
Estelle, born July 18, 1844, in Ross Co.; Adeline, born Aug. 7,
1847, in Fulton Co.; Edgar, born Dec. 7, 1848, in Fulton Co.;
Belle, born A])ril 1, 1853, in same countv ; and Ella, born in 1857.
Eugene enlisted in Co. H, 65th 111. Inf.,' May 19, 1862.
Cyrus F. Fordyce, farmer, sec. 6 ; P. O., Table Grove ; was born
in Green Co., Pa., in 1807; lived in Ohio a few years, and in 1828
came to Fulton Co. ; in Ohio again during the deep snow ; returned
to this county in 18.31 ; saw hard times; in 1835 he married Par-
melia Hughes, daughter of George Hughes, of Farmers' tp., and
he has 3 children living, — John, George and Mary.
John F, Fordyce, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 7 ; P. C, Table
Grove; was born in Fulton county in 1836; reared amid pioneer
associations; enlisted in Co. F, 183d 111. Inf.; honorably discharged
after 8 months' service; Sept. 25, 1860, married Minerva I. Hagans,
daughter of Campbell Hagans, of Eldorado tp., McDonough Co. ;
their children are, Clara, Henry (dee.), Effie, Frank, Sherman,
Bruce, Charles and Freeman. Mr. Fordyce has taught school some
and was once a business man in Table Grove.
Daniel Frazler, farmer, sec. 26; P. O., Vermont ; was born in
Belmont, Co., Ohio, in 1825; his father, Wm. Frazier, was born in
North Carolina, but moved while young to Ohio, where he married
Miss Anna Ross; of this marriage 12 children were born, of whom
8 are living. Daniel, the fifth of these, was married in Noble Co.,
O., in 1850 to Miss Nancy Stoneking, by whom he has 5 children,
two have died. Sarah A. married S. Brown, of Astoria tp. ; Wm.,
John and Lucy (twins), and Mary B. reside at home.
Reuben Frazier, farmer, sec. 34; P. O., Vermont; born in Bel-
-mont Co., O., in 1827. His father, Wm. F., was a North Caro-
linian, who emigrated to Ohio in early day. Reuben married, in
ni6 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Ohio, Mary E. Swan, daughter of John and Elizabeth S., by whom
he had 10 children, 5 now living, — Rebecca C, Daniel S., Emma
J., Nancy E. and Anna. In 1856 he came to this count v. Mrs. F.
died July 19, 1871 ; Oct. 26, 1872, Mr. F. married Mellnda Derry,
daughter of Solomon Derry, and had one child. In 1864 Mr.
Frazier enlisted in Co. H, 12th 111. Inf., and was in the battle of
Kingston, N. C.
Ebenezer Freeman, agriculturist, sec. 35 ; P. O., Vermont. Mar-
shall G. Freeman (father of Ebenezer) was a native of the Bay
State, learned shoe-making while young; moved to Providence, R.
I., where he married Europa Stafford, by whom he had 11 children.
In early days he emigrated to Isabel township, this county, and in
company with Samuel Hackelton erected a grist-mill on Spoon river,
but it was swept away by a freshet. The next year he sent for his
family. In 1835 he entered Government land on section 35, Ver-
mont townshij), and proceeded according to the necessities and char-
acteristics of the times to make a home. He succeeded, as nearly
all the sturdy pioneers have done, in this domestic enterprise, and
he died Sept. 28, 1859, leaving a good farm. Mrs. F. is still in this
world, 71 years old. Ebenezer married Anna Nelson in his 23d
year, and they have had 9 children : Marvil, Nelson, Corrilla, Mar-
shall, Mary, Charles, Laura, Lucy and Arthur.
W. L. Green, house-painter, Vermont.
W. P. Green, contractor, builder and chair-maker, Vermont, was
born in Fayette county. Pa., in 1822; learned his trade in that State;
in 1842 married Miss Eliza, daughter of Bowell Brownfield, of that
county; enlisted in Co. G, 85th Regt. Pa. Vol., and participated in
many noted battles, as Williamsburg, Fair Oaks, etc.; was honor-
ably discharged in 1864; remained at his old home until 1^68, when
he emigrated to Wayne county. 111., and two years later to this
county. He guarantees all his work ; headquarters at the factory
on Main street.
Willis Hager, iiirmor, stock-raiser and shipjier, sec. 13; P. O.,
Ipava. This gentleman is well known as a business man, liberal and
industrious. He is engaged extensively in shipj)ing.
Wilson Ha ge r, fiivmcr and stock-raiser, sec. 12; P. O., Ipava;
was born in Belmont county, O., in 1827, son of Jacob Hager, an
Ohio farmer who died many years ago, and whose widow dietl in
Vermont township more recently. The subject of this paragraph
grew up in his western home, and in 1871 married Martha Middle-
ton, daughter of John and ^Lartha Middleton. Katy is their only
child. In this townshij) and McDonough county Mr. H. owns 500
acres of land ; is an extensive dealer in stock.
John Hall, farmer, sec. 34; P. O., Vermont ; born in Belmont
Co., O., in 1816; married Mary Ann, daughter of Daniel Knock,
by whom he has 5 children. In 1839 he came to Vermont tp.,
where he has since lived ; was a cooper by trade but is now a
farmer. One day, when out in the woods cutting hoop-poles, Mr.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 917
Hall heard his dog b;\rkinga little way off, and going to the spot he
found that the dog had treed a large catamount. On his arrival the
cat jumped down, aiming to attack the dog, but failed at the first
effort. However he turned upon the dog and would have killed
him had not Mr. Hall at that juncture run up to them, and given
the wild animal a few well directed blows with his hatchet, and
killed him.
Edward Hamer, merchant and firmer, was born in Delaware Co.,
Pa., Sept. 30, 1816; in 1829 his parents moved to Chester Co.,
where he learned the tailor's trade and remained until 1854, when
he emigrated to Vermont, 111., where he has since continued in busi-
ness. In all he has kept store nearly 40 years. In Chester Co.,
Pa., Aug., 1860, he married Miss A. A. Morris, and they have two
daughters, — S. M. and M. H. Mr. Hamer is a Republican and
has held several local offices: is not a member of any Church or
society. He is a promineut business man who has won a high repu-
tation.
Patterson Hamer, merchant, was born and reared in Eastern
Pennsylvania, where he taught school, worked on a farm and learned
the tailor's trade. His cousin Edward (noticed above) assisted him
in his educational career, and they subsequently entered the dry-
goods and grocerv business in partnership, excluding the retail of
liquors. Altliough many predicted their defeat, they succeeded, and
continued to prosper for 14 years, while many other business firms
in their community failed. In 1854 they came to Vermont and
purchased the building they now occuj)y, besides several town lots,
and other business property. They are also joint owners of a
valuable firm, and have done much toward the material advance-
ment of the village of their choice. Patterson has declined all pub-
lic office except that of Supervisor or other local positions. He has
always been opj)osed to slavery, and in the days of its existence he
aided many a fugitive. In the late war he contributed largely to
its prosecution, hoping thereby the sooner to end it.
Col. Thomas Hamer was born in Union Co., Pa., in 1818. His
father, James Hamer, was born in 1785, also in Pa., and he was the
son of Jam?s H uner, of Scotland, who settled in Northumberland
Co. prior to the Revolutionary war, and was elected the first Sher-
iff of that county. He married Elizabeth Lyon and had 8 children,
the eldest of whom was James. James H, was a farmer, settled in
Vermont, 111., in 1845, and died there. He was a very generous
man. Col. Thomas Hamer received a thorough education in his
youth, besides being brought up at farm work ; clerked in a dry-
goods and grocery store for several years; in 1847 was employed as
clerk by Joab Mershon for two years, then entered partnership with
Jas. A. Russell and Richard Johnson in the drv-ffoods line, and
prospered until the spring of 1851, when Jack Matheny jiiundered
the store and set fire to the building, entailing a total loss of $8,000.
He was then in partnership with E. & P. Hamer until 1861, wdien
918 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
the war broke out, and he organized Cos. B and F, 84th 111. Inf.,
and was commissioned Maj(tr. He beat Bragg in a race to Louis-
ville, Kv., and afterward was engaged in pursuit of the same rebel
general in a race for Nashville; was wounded at the battle of Stone
River, but next day after receiving the wound he commanded so
valiantlv that his men gave him a gold watch as a testimonial of his
enthusiasm; his wound, however, compelled him to resign. He
came home and finally recovered. In 18G4 he entered mercantile
business, which he followed until 1876, when he sold out to Ayres
& Whitnev. He has been Supervisor, and has been nominated
three different times for the Legislature by the Republican party,
drawing the full vote; has been delegate to every Republican
countv convention held since he came into the State ; and was
elected President of the annual Army Reunion at Springfield. In
1850 he married Harriet E. Johnson, daughter of Franklin John-
son, a native of New York. Has had 0 children : two are living
now, namely, Wylie and Lee Ray.
James Harmon, farmer, sec. 8; P. O., Vermont ; was born in
Penn., in 1815, son of James Harmon, sr., a farmer, and Margaret
(Xeelev) ; he first learned the plasterer's trade, which he followed 37
vears ; married Martha Keene, who died, leaving 4 children, — Cal-
vin, Margaret, James and Isabel. In 1849 Mr. H. settled in this tp.
In 1860 he married Taey Hagar, by whom he has one child, Nancy.
Jacobs. Harper, miller, was born in Jefferson Co., ()., Feb. 14,
1830. His father, Joseph Harper, was a carpenter, a native of Pa.,
and died when Jacob was yet a lad. The latter learned to be a black-
smith, married Myrtila Wasson, of Pa., had 5 children, 3 of whom
are living, — Indiana, Montie and Dilla. In the spring of 1855 Mr.
Harper settled in Vermont, workeil one year in the blacksmith sht)p
of Geo. Durell, and then 8 years for T. F. Wisdom ; 186-2-6 he fol-
lowed the business independently, then bought an interest in the
steam grist-mill east of the public square; in 1869 he purchased an
interest in the City Mills, in partnership with Jesse Bogue.
Alfred Hart, cabinet manufacturer and dealer, was l)orn in Kent,
Eng!, in 1817. His father, Wm. Hart, was a paper-maker, who
died in England, leaving several children, Alfred, the eldest, re-
ceived a liberal education and early rendered himself proficient in
the trade of cabinet-maker. In 1847 he married Sarah Hattan, by
whom he had 6 children, 3 of whom are living, — Alfred, Charlotte
and Louisa. In 1849 Mr. Hart came to America and located in
Vermont the following spring, since which time he has pursued his
vocation.
Aaron Hickle, deceased, was born in Virginia, bnt was taken to
Ohio when he was 7 years of age, where he grew to manhood and
married Sarah Stanhope, daughter of George and Mary Stanhope,
of New Jersey. In 1848 he came to Vermont tp., and died in 1«m.
He left a wife and 8 children: Rebecca, who died Aug, 27, 1874;
George, who married Miss Parmelia Wilson and resides in this tp. ;
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 919
Eliza, who married John Brown and resides also in this tp.; Sa-
mantha, who married eJohn Mills and resides in Astoria tp. ; Harriet,
who married Wm. Gr^uly and resides in Astoria; John, who mar-
ried Ao;nes Diehl and lives in Vermont tp. ; Sigourney, who mar-
ried Elisha Elliot and lives in Woodland tp. ; and Cassius A., who
dwells on the old homestead.
Thomas Holmes, farmer and stoek-raiser, sec. 3 ; P. O., Ipava ;
was born in Washington (now Marion) Co., Ky., Nov. 7, 1813.
His father, Nathan Holmes, was also a native of KentueUy, a farmer,
who married Mary Miller, of Ky. In 1833 the family came to
Farmers' township. Dec. 1, 1836, Mr. Thos. Holmes married
Rachel Derry, danghter of John Derry, of Va. In the fall of 1836
he bnilt a cabin, and continned to labor indnstriously and economi-
cally until he is now a wealthy man. His present fine residence was
buit in I860. He now owns 500 acres of valuable land. He has
had 10 children, 8 living now: Mary, who married Samuel Miner
and now lives in Kansas; Sarah, now the wife of Thomas Matthews
in Nebraska; Josephine A., the wife of Harrison Edie; William,
who married Miss Battles and after her decease. Miss Mary Stoops;
Franklin, who married Sarah Hipsley; Charles, who resides in Ver-
mont; Edward, still at the old homstead. Thomas E., a grand-son,
also lives at the homestead.
Wm. H. Holmes, farmer, sec. 3; P. O., Vermont; was born on
the old homstead in this tp., in 1845, son of Thomas Holmes; pur-
sued a business course of study at Lewistown ; on Christmas, 1867,
he married Olive E. Battles, daughter of G. W. Battles, formerly
a merchant of Ipava, but now a resident of California. Their only
child is Edward B. Mrs. H. died Sept. 20, 1871. In 1873 Mr.
H. married Sarah J. Stoops, daughter of Wm. and Keziah S., early
settlers here. Of the latter marriage were born Wm. S., Gertrude
F. and Olive M.
Ellis Hoopes, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 26; P. O., Vermont;
is a native of Chester Co., Pa., born in 1804; his father was also
a Pennsvlvanian and a school-teacher, married Elizabeth Kino; and
had 9 children, the eldest but one of whom is Ellis, jr. The family
moved to Ohio about 1813, where Ellis was educated and learned
carpentering; was naturally very skillful ; in 1826 he married Miss
Grace Foulk, daughter of Judith and Sarah F., natives of Bucks
Co., Pa.; in 1841 he came to Vermont tp., where he has since re-
sided, making for himself a comfortable home. Julv 27, 1878,
Mrs. H. was buried in Vermont cemetery.
S. F. Hoopes, manufacturer of and dealer in buggies and car-
riages, Vermont ; was born in Ohio in 1839; in 1841 his parents
settled, with him, in Vermont tp. When 19 years old Silas F.
commenced to learn his trade, proved extraordinary apt, and in
1859 entered partnership with his elder brother William. In the
war he enlisted in the 3d 111. Cav., in the Musical Corps, or Regi-
mental Band. He returned home and opened the large manufac-
920 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
turinp; establish mcnt he now occupies. In 1864 he married Miss
Mary J. Cox, tlaughter of Caleb Cox. They have three boys and
one girl.
Dr. A. L. Hoover, Vermont, was born in Wayne Co., Ind., in
1843. His father was John Hoover, a farmer, also a native of In-
diana. Abraiiam L. was reared in his native county, and to obtain
an education he had to earn money at 40 cents a day, chopping
wood, making rails, etc., and taught school some. He studied
medicine at Ann Arbor, Mich., at the University, and commenced
practice at Baltimore (now New Haven), Mich. Here he married
Delia J. Knotts, daughter of X. C. Knotts, of Pa., and they have
one child. He spent 5 years at Eaton, Ind., and then came to Ver-
mont, where he has established himself in a good practice. He
takes special pride in his library, suj)j)lying himself with the latest
valuable works and keeping up with the times.
H. »S, Jdcobs, Justice of the I'eace, was born in 1822 in Ken-
tucky; his father, John Jacobs, was a native of old Virginia, a
sailor, who had to discontinue his occupation prior to the war of
1812, owing to the cessation of commerce and the troubles which
led to the war. He moved to Kentuckv in 1810, married Nancv
Gwinn, by whom he had 12 children. Harrison S., the 5th child,
attained his 12th year, when his parents moved with him to Mis-
.souri ; at the age of 18 he went to St. Louis, learned the chair-
maker's trade, married Miss ]M. W. Coolidge, and in 1849 settled
in Astoria, continuing the business of chair-making 4 years. In
1870 he was ekcted Justice of the Peace for the tp. of Vermont,
in which capacity he has given great satisfaction.
John Kellij, farmer, sec. 8 ; P. O., Table Grove; born in Ver-
mont township, Oct. 14, 1837. His father, Ebenezer Kelly was a
Kentucky farmer, who married Susan Hayes and had 11 children.
In 1834 the family emigrated to this township, and Mr. K. built
his own and many other cabins; in later years he became sucessful
in the more modern system of architecture. He died in 1874, and
^Irs. K. is still living, a resident of ^"ermont. Five of their chil-
dren survive: Elizabeth, who married John Hamer, of Vermont ;
John, who married Sarah A. Hodgen ; Martha, who married Jean
Moore, resides in Nebraska ; Mary, who is married and lives in
Farmers' township ; and Carr, who married Ella Simmons and re-
sides in Vermont.
Henry Kirkhridc, keeper of livery and feed stable, Vermont,
the oldest and most successful institution of the kind ever establish-
ed in the })lace. He commenced business prior to the building of
the C, B. c^ (i. Railroad to this point, and by enterprise, persever-
ance and integrity he has outstripped all his competitors, many of
them having started in the race and "got left." Mr. K. of course
keeps a first-class line of carriages and stock.
A. J. Koo)is, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 10; P. O,, Vermont.
Thirty years ago Mr. Koons arrived in Fulton county with only
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 921
half a dollar, and now has a fine 250-acrc farm with a handsome
brick residence upon it, — all from his energy and economy. He
was born in New Jersey in IS'.U) ; his parents were Jonathan and
Elizabeth Koons ; he learned the carpenter and joiner's trade, but
afterward worked 3 years on a farm in Pennsylvania ; then, in 1848,
he emigrated to Ipava ; in 1857 he married Margaret Kost ; in 1862
he enlisted in Co. B., 84th lU. Tnf ; returned to his farm, on which
he has prospered ever since. He was among the first to adopt tile
draining, and now has 1,900 rods of 3 and 4-inch tiling on his farm.
His dwelling is possibly the finest in the county. He has but one
child, Frank, born in this county in 1859, who is a natural artist.
Abraham Koi-tt, agriculturist, sec. 11 ; P. O., Ipava ; born in Penn.
in 1821, son of John Kost ; was 12 years old when the familv emi-
grated with him to Ohio; there he received a liberal education, and
in 1842 married Mary Walker, daughter of Jesse W., by whom he
has had 4 children ; settled in Astoria in an early day, buying a piece
of land, and after a residence there of 5 years he moved into Ver-
mont tp. He has had 4 children ; Julia Ann, who married, Jabez
Beers; Elizabeth, n-ho first married James Koons, and, after his
death in the army, R. S. Thomas; William and Catharine, who mar-
ried James Hayes.
W. F. Kost, firmer, sec. 12; P. O., Tpava ; born in Fulton
county; is a young, enterprising farmer; was brought up amid
pioneer surroundings and influences, and inured to industrious
habits.
I). W. Lambert, farmer, sec. 16; P. O., Vermont; was born in
Knox Co., O., in 1844, the second son of Francis \j. and Mary M.
Lambert. Francis L. was a soldier and musician in the Mexican
war, a member of the 2d Ohio regt. ; in the late war he was elected
Captain of Co. I, 95th Ohio; in 1876 he came to Illinois and soon
after died. D. W. came to Illinois in 1860; in 1861 he enlisted in
Co. L., 7th 111., Cav. ; in 1864 re-elisted as Sergeant; during the
war he was in 27 battles. He also participated in Grierson's raid,
riding 800 miles in 12 days. In 1878 he settled in this tp., mar-
ried Miss Sarah A. Barron, and they had one child. Myrtle, who was
born in Feb., 1874, and died the following May. In Dec, 1877,
Mr. L. was married (a second time) to Phcebe J. Beatty, and they
have one child.
Brinton Levis was born Dec. 19, 1805, in Chester Co., Pa., passed
his youth there, except 6 years on the sea as a sailor; obtained a
systematic education withal; in 1828 he married Phcebe Ann,
daughter of Wm. Ring, and they had 11 children, only 5 of whom
now survive, namely: William, who married Miss Harriet Cox;
Joseph, who married Amanda Smith ; Rebecca, who married Stephen
Bogue; Sarah J., who married Caleb Brinton, and Mary F., who is
still at the old homestead. Mr. Lewis served in the army during
the Mexican war, and about 1850 he settled in this tp. and has fol-
lowed farming and teaching school. He was in all the battles in
922 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
the vallev near the city of Mexico, as Chapultepcc, Churiibiisco,
Coutrera;:;, Molino del Rev, etc., two of these being the most severe
of the campaign. Always votes the straight Democratic ticket.
Benjamin yiar^haU, farmer, sec. 32 ; P. O., Vermont ; was born
in Indiana Co., Pa., Nov. 6, 1830, son of Walter Marshall, also a
native of Pa., and a farmer, who- married Mary Purnell and had 7
children; Benjamin, the eldest, grew to manhood in Pennsylvania,
receiving a liberal education, married Margaret Duncan, and had 7
children, — 6 of whom are living, — Hadillah, Louisa, . Wm. H.,
Scott (dec.), Stewart, Mary and Emma. May 31, 1855, he located
in this tp., purchasing 40 acres of land, where he now has an ex-
cellent orchard and vineyard ; in the latter are a thousand vines.
He is pretty generally ahead, also in quality of live stock and
poultry.
./. .S. Marshall, farmer ; P. O., Ipava ; born in Jefferson Co., O.,
in 181(3; in 1823 his father, Wm. Marshall, died; he was brought
up to farm labor and strict habits of economy and perseverance, and
is now credited with being the wealthiest citizen in Vermont tp.
Wm. Marshall, former and stock-raiser, sec. 22 ; P. O., Ver-
mont; born in Harrison Co., O., in 1823. His father, of the same
name, was a native of Pa., moved when young to Ohio, followed
teaming, manv times going over the mountains to Baltimore; mar-
ried Miss Sarah Marshall, of Ohio. Of the four children two are
living, John S. and Wm. (Margaret and Thomas deceased). Wm.,
jr., was but 13 years old when his father died (in 1835), and he then
accompanied his mother and brother to this tp. Wra. commenced
going to school at the age of 16, in an old-fashioned log school-
house characteristic of the times. In 1851 he married Charlotte
Loomis, daughter of Russell G. L., and they have had G children,
only 2 of whom arc living, — Ross E. and Alice J.
Thomas Maxwell, farmer; P. O., Ipava. This gentleman was
born in Ohio in 1847; in 1856 he became a resident of Vermont
t])., where he rents 150 acres of land. In 1874 he married Miss
Lovina Boozle. They have one child living, — Perry.
Andrew E. McCartney, deceased, was a native of Kentucky. His
father, James McC, was from Virginia. Andrew E. was reared on
a farm; in 1839 he emigrated to Vermont tp. Mrs. McC. is still
living. They had 11 children, 9 of whom are yet living: John A.,
Andrew E. (on the homestead), Rachel E., Benj. F., Addison P.,
John H. (married Belle Underwood), Mattie I. (married Melvin T.
Wilson) and Delilah C.
Wm. Mr Cart I/, farmer, sec. 27; P. O., Vermont; was born in
Frederick Co., Va., near Winchester, in 1811. His fiither, John
McC, was born in Frederick Co., Md., a farmer, and married Han-
nah Nevitt, of Va., by whom he had 8 children. Wm., the eldest,
settled in Belmont Co., O., in an early day and followed forming;
in 1838 he married Susannah Derry, in Coshocton Co., daughter of
Wm. Derry, of Va., and had 11 children, only five of whom now
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 923
survive, — Elizabeth, Sarah, Wm. P., Isaac and David. This
family resided in Mason Co., 111., from 1844 to 1807, then moved
to this tp.
Columhux McCiirrh/, physician and suro;eon, Vermont, was born
in McDonoujjh Co., 111., iii 1844. His father, Alex. xMcC, a miller,
was born in Virginia, Init emigrated to McDonough Co. in an early
day; in 1843 he married Eliza Renner ; in 1847 he settled in Ver-
mont, where he followed his vocation until his death in 1851 ; his
widow died in 1875. The only survivor of the familv is the sub-
ject of this sketch, who thoroughly educated himself at the common
schools, studied medicine under Drs. Taylor & Clark, and subse-
quently graduated at the Eclectic Medical Institute in Cincinnati,
O. In 1873 he married Caroline Freeman, daughter of Marshall
Freeman, a ])ioneer. Dr. McC. is regarded as both learned and
skilled in his profession.
Wm. McCunUj, deceased, a well and favorably known pioneer,
was born in Virginia in 1808; the name of his lirst Avife we were
not able to obtain ; his second wife was a Miss Eliza Elliot, born in
Ohio; in 1832 he settled in Fulton Co., 111., as a farmer, but soon
resumed his trade of harness-maker; he died in 1870, leaving a
wife and the following children: Joseph and Martin, in California;
Jane, in Bushnell ; Mary, Maggie, Henrietta, ^\'illianl and J. R.,
all in Vermont. The last mentioned married Elizabeth Harris, of
Cass Co., and has one child, Tony E.
Wm. Mcllor, attorney at law, is a native of Manchester, Eng.,
born in 1830; having acquired a liberal education, at the age of 17
he came to America and located in Eldorado tj)., McDonough Co.,
111. ; labored hard at farm work for a season, and then went to Ver-
mont and clerked in Stevens & Winans' dry-goods store for 4 years,
then was a member of the firm of Heizer & Co., dry-goods dealers,
until the financial panic of 1857; then traveled in the South as
salesman of nursery stock until the spring of 18()1, when he re-
turned to Vermont and warned the j)eople in a public speech what
the South intended to do, but was little heeded. In 1802 he joined
the 103d 111. Inf , was unanimously elected 2d Lieut, of (^o. F.,
then (Oct. 18, '62) 1st Eieut. and Regt. Q. M., which })<)sition he
retained until the war closed. April 2, 1804, he was incarcerated
in the rebel prison at Atlanta, then 3 weeks at Andersonville, then
to Macon, Savannah and Charleston, where, Nov. 15, 1804, he was
exchanged. Taking two months in Annaj)olis, Md., and a short
time at home in Vermont to recover health, he was assigned to
Benton Barracks, Mo., as Q. M., and May 15, 1865, he was honor-
ably discharged. Before the war he had read law, and during his
life he has been Supervisor, Tp. Collector, Clerk, etc. In 1847 he
married Charlotte Cowan, in England, and has three children, —
George, Robert and I^uella.
Isaac Mendenhall, farmer, sec. 26 ; P. O., Vermont. Mr. M.
was born in Chester Co., Pa., in 1815. His father, Aaron, also a,
924 HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
native of Penn., married Deborah Brown and had 10 children,
Isaac being the eldest son. The latter married Jane Kinsev,
daughter of John Kiusey, and they had 4 children, — Mary E., Wm.,
John and Esther J. Mrs. M. died in 1849, and the same year Mr.
M. married Hannah J. Thompson, and they had 8 children. In
1864*Mr. M. emigrated with his family to this tp.
Elmer Meredith, farmer, sec. 12; P. O,, Ipava. Born in Morrow
Co., O., Feb. 18, 18-52. Benjamin Meredith, his father, was also
an Ohioan, and a physician and surgeon. Elmer married Catherine,
daughter of Daniel Lvbarger, an old settler here, and thev have 3
children, — Alta B., Lillian and William. In 1873 Mr. M. pur-
chased his present farm.
Henry Mershon, one of the leading merchants of the county, of
the firm of J. & H. Mershon, the senior being his father. Henry
is a native of this county, has been reared amid pioneer associations,
and has by his integrity of character and capacity won a high place
in the esteem of his fellow citizens. Their stock of goods is always
selected with great care, so that in the quality of their goods as well
as in low price, etc., they are not surpassed.
./. ik H. Mershon, dealers in dry -goods, Vermont. Among the
mercantile houses of Vermont undoubtedly the most extensive is that
ofJoaband Henry Mershon ; their goods are selected with great
care, are all in style and durable. As early as 1842 the senior part-
ner of this firm began mercantile business in this place on Main
street, and steady prosperity so attended him that he has enlarged
and improved his building from time to time, keeping fully up with
the demands of the community. He also carries on a banking busi-
ness, where his integrity and business qualifications have been dem-
onstrated to the satisfaction of the public.
Joab Mershon, banker and merchant, is one of the leading busi-
ness men of Fulton Co., a position he has obtained purely by merit.
Years ago he commenced in Vermont with no capital but that of
the mind and heart, which, however, was considerable. An abiding
faith in the future prosperity of this township and county, joined
with industry, mental capacity and honesty has enabled him to-day
to rank among the highest in this section of the country.
Martin Miles, proprietor of the meat market, Vermont, was bom
in McDonough Co., 111., in 1837 ; came to Vermont about 1870, and
in 1877 entered his present business. He married Melissa Husted
in McDonough Co., and has two daughters and one son.
Abner Miller, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 23 ; P. O., Vermont ;
was bom in Noble county, O., in 1836; his father, Stephen Miller,
was also a native of the Buckeye State, where he married Phcebe
Ross and had o children, — Elijah, Amos, Abner, Mary J. and Sarah
A. In 1855 the family moved to this tp. and Mr. M. died in Aug.,
1878 : Mrs. M. is still living, upward of 73 years old : Abner was
in his 18th year at the immigration to this place; in 1859 he mar-
ried Ethelminda Walker, daughter of Jesse Walker, who settled in
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY, 92o
this township in 18o3. Children: Jonathan L., Mary A., Frances
K., Josephine, J^mma, Lewis, Jesse G. and Howard, besides one
deceased.
Abraham Miller, farmer, sec. 2 ; P. O., Ipava ; was bom in Pa., in
1803; his parents were Abraham and Cathf rine f Bendf-r; Miller, the
former an agriculturist, wIkj moved to Ohio in I8I0 and died in
1827, in Clermont Co., that State; the latter migrated to Vermont
tp. in 1836 and died in 1842. Abraham, the younger, grew to man-
hood in Ohio, where he married Miss Mary G., daughter of Robert
Dobbins, and has had since the following-named children : PLliza J.,
who married John Cadwallader and resides in Bushnell township,
McDonough Co.; Mar)', who married Cyras Bartholomew, and after
his decease John Ross ; Rol>ert M., who married Man*' Cadwallader,
and after her decf-a-e Miss Sarah Ackerson ; and Amanda Ann, who
married Jesse Wiley, of Hancock Co. Robert M. was severely
wounded at the battle of Murfreesborough.
Jacob Miller, farmer, sec. 2; P. O., Ipava; was born in Penn. in
1814; in I8I0 the family moved to Ohio; in 1836 Mr. M. emi-
grated to Vermont township; in 1839 he married Amanda, daughter
of Rev. Robert Dobbins, a Presbyterian minister, and the second
settler on the prairie in this township. These are the children:
Philetus, who was killed in 1863 by a horse running away; Mart'
C. ; Eliza M. ; and Jane C, who married Charles Hixon, of this
county. Mr. and Mrs. M. relate many interesting reminiscences of
pioneer times.
Joseph Miller, retired farmer, sec. 10; P.O., Vermont. Abraham
Miller, his father, is above alluded to. Mr. Joseph Miller wa.s bom
in Clermont county, O., Nov. 10, 1817; in the spring of 1836 he
settled on "Ipava Prairie," working as a farm hand. In 1844 he
married Jane Stoops, daughter of Michael Stoops, of Ohio, and
they have had 6 children, 3 of whom are living, — Michael S., John
W. and Laura Leoni, — and are in this county.
Charles R. Morgan, farmer and fruit-grower, sec. 6 ; born in I80I,
in Fulton county, on the old homestead of his parents, Wm. and
Esther Morgan, whose biographies are next given.
Wm. Morgan, deceased, was born near Saratoga Springs, N. Y.;
married Hannah Wheeler and had 3 children ; then married Esther
Walworth; in 1832 he moved to Ft. Dearborn, 111. (now Chicago),
when there was but one grocery store there ; soon afterward he
moved to Vermont township. He died, leaving to the care of his
wife 7 children. Peter married Miss Martha Crow and resides at
Farraington ; Walter married Mary Decamppes (?), Diamond City,
Montana, and Elsie is deceased. Of the second marriage were born
Hannah, who married Geo. Fike and resides at Table Grove ; Jam^s
H., who first married Mary Harmon, and afterward Alice Mark-
ham, now residing at Bardolph ; Lydia, who married Wm. Haller
and resides in Wayne county, Iowa; Jacob W., who married Lydia
54
926 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Coulter and resides at Foster Point, McDonongh Co.; and Charles
R., unmarried.
Hiram A. Pickering, farmer, sec. 15; P. O., Vermont; was born
in Harrison Co., O., in 1836, son of Hiram Pickerinjr, a native of
the Old Dominion, who moved to Ohio in early day and married He-
lena McXamee, Hiram grew to manhood in Ohio and married
Miss Mary Ann, daughter of Abel Pickering, of Va. In A])ril,
1860, he came and settled in Farmers' tp. ; in 1852 he removed to
Vermont tp. His children are Susannah, Elva, Cordelia, Flora,
Franklin, Oscar and Ellen.
Geo. \V. Powell, flirmer, sec. 4, was born in Pickaway Co., O.,
in 1821, lived during his youth in ;Menard Co., 111., obtaining a fair
education ; then labored as a farm hand about two years in White-
sides Co., III. ; then in Fulton Co. awhile in the same capacity. In
1850 he bought 100 acres of unimproved land ; in 1852 he mar-
ried Elizabeth Abernathy, daughter of Charles A., one of the older
pioneers of the county. He worked hard, managed well, bought
more land and continued to prosper until the present time. Milem
and Albert are his children.
Joseph D. Powell, flirmer and stock-raiser, sec. 4 ; P. O., Table
Grove; born in Pickaway Co., 0.,in 1827. His father, Samuel P.,
was born in Virginia, moved first to Kentucky, then to Ohio, where
he married Elizabeth Alptire, by whom he had 12 children, Joseph
being the voungest but one ; the familv emigrated tti Menard Co.,
111., in the fjill of 1827; Mr. Samuel P. dealt in stock, increased
his property, and was Road Commissioner for the Springfield and
Havana road; he died in 1835. Mrs. P. died in 1856. Joseph
settled in this county in his 18th year; in 1849 he married Caroline
Baughman, daughter of Daniel B., a Virginian. He now owns 480
acres of land and a valuable farm residence. He has withal
been correspondingly generous, contributing largely to Abingdon
College, Knox Co., and to the construction of the Rushville branch
of the C, B. & Q. R. R.
Win. Prorine, miller, was born in Clark Co., Ind., a son of A\ ra.
and Mary Provine. Wm. P., sen., was a native of Tennessee, but
early came to Kentucky, where he married Mary Buchanan, and in
1803 emigrated to Indiana where he was county surveyor. Wil-
liam, in 1836, settled in Macomb, 111., where he worked three years
at his trade as cal)inet-maker. In 1838 he married Paulina Scott,
daughter of Martin Scott, of Ky. In 1847 he moved to Vermont
and engaged in wool-carding fora short time, and then for 10 years
he was'connccted with Isaac Witchell and Jesse Burr in the build-
ing and running of a saw-mill ; then he was a merchant at Abing-
don a short time, then back to Vermont, and in ccunpany with
Stevens & Winans remodeled and ran the Excelsior Mills (now the
Monitor). In 1858 he went to Tennessee, 111., then to Bushnell,
then back to Vermont, then assisted in building the flouring mill at
Astoria now owned by Wm. Kost. Of the 11 children born to him
7 are living.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY, 927
Win. Ranl-in, retired farmer, Vermont ; was born in York Co.,
Pa., May 10, ISOG, son of John and Martha Rankin, who moved
to Jefferson Co., O., when AVm. was in his 7th year; the kitter
worked a short time as a miller; he married Miss Sarali, danghter
of Robert and Martha fiercer, and they have had 13 ehildren. In
1847 the family settled in this township, near where Vermont now
is; some years afterward he bought 35 aeres of land, which he has
subsequently increased to a much greater amount and is now in
affluence. Children — John, Rhodes, Jane (dec), ^lartha, who
married Charles Branson, of Woodland tp., Olive (?) A., who
married Wm. Hall; Alice, who married Henry Taylor, Emily (dec.),
Julia A. (dee.), James (dec.) and Charles D.
Elias Ring was born in Chester Co., Penn., in 1831, where he
received a liberal education and resided the greater portion of his
life in Vermont tj). ; in 1872 he married INIattie M., daughter of
Henry Bailey, of Belmont Co., O. ; in 1873 he purchased the town
property he now owns, including the millinery establishment pre-
sided over by Mrs. Ring, and the wagon shops of Adams & Sexton,
and he rents also the photograph gallery of Samuel Murphy. Mrs.
R.'s millinery business is unequaled in Vermont.
Joseph RobinHon, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 1 ; P. O., Ipava.
Thomas Robinson, his father, was a native of Penn., a farmer, who
married Anna Branson, of the same State, and of their 6 children
Joseph was the eldest, being born in 1813 in Chester Co., Pa. The
family emigrated to Fulton Co. in 1841, settling on a quarter of
sec. *1, Vermont tp. The father died in his 60th year, and the
mother survived him a year. In 1845 Joseph married Ruth Bogue,
daughter of Jonathan B. Mary, the wife of Palmer Meredith, in
this township, is their only child.
Elder J. B. Roi/df, minister of the Christian Church, was born in
Franklin Co., O., Nov. 1, 1816; his father, Thos. Royal, was born
in Manchester, Eng., and came to America near the beginning of the
Revolutionary war and fought for American independence; he sub-
sequently married a Miss Cooper in \'irginia, raised a family, and
after her death he married Rebecca Matthews ; then moved to
Franlin Co., O., where the second wife died, leaving one child ; he
afterward married Ellen Brink, by whom he had one son, — Joseph,
whose name heads this sketch. In 1824 they came to Sangamon
Co., 111. Aug. 19, 1841, Joseph married Louisa Downing, in San-
gamon Co., who died Jan. 8, 1853, in Vermont, 111., leaving 4
children (2 died young). Mr. and Mrs. Royal have 3 children, —
Geo. A., Mollie M. ; and Eugene D., who married Emma S. Sex-
ton. Joseph B. has formerly been pastor of the Christian Church
here, and has been in the ministry 32 years.
Charles Russell, sec. 11, is among the more prominent farmers of
Vermont township.
Jame.s A. Russell, a pioneer merchant of Vermont, is a native of
Alexandria, Va., where he was born in. 1819. He first studied civil
928 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
engineering, then followed the sea for a time, then was civil engin-
eer in Terre Haute, assisting in the survey, location and building of
the Wabash Canal, in 1840 settled in Vermont, followed farming,
and finally mercantile business. He married ^liss Elizabeth John-
son, of New York, in 1846. Of their 7 children 5 are living, viz:
Frank, who married Miss Ida Sturges and lives in Peoria; Oscar
H., a partner of his father in the drug business; Lula, Eva and
Charley.
John Searl, farmer and minister, sec. 19; P. O., Vermont; was
born in Campbell Co., Ky., son of James Searl, a native of Steuben
Co., N. Y., and who married Anna Mayall in Ky. ; in 1834 emi-
grated to Sangamon Co., 111., with an ox team, and next year set-
tled in Vermont tp. ; he died May 10, 1852, and his wife April 7,
1870. John was in his third year when his parents settled in Ful-
ton Co.; was liberally educated as he grew uj); in 1849 he married
Rebecca Parrish, daughter of Enoch Parrish ; in 1878 was licensed
by the M. E. Church to preach. His living children are: Emma,
Nancy, Jasper E., Elizabeth and Aldia B. He has 148 acres of
land.
George Shaver, farmer, sec. 12; P. O., Ipava ; born in Penn. in
1816 ; his father, a Penn. farmer, married Mary Glass, of New Jer-
sey, and they had 10 children, George, the youngest; March 8,
1838, he married Margaret IMcEliianey, daughter of AV^m. and
Catharine McE., and they had 9 children, of whom 6 are living, —
Kate, Camelia, Ann, Maggie, John and Samuel. In 1846 this
fiimily emigrated to this county, settling near Bernadotte, but the
following autumn he located permanently in Vermont tp. Jan. 9,
1873, Mrs. S. died, and Jan. 23, 1876, Mr. S. married Miss Mary,
daughter of John Matthewson, of Vermont.
E. Sidwell, grain dealer and shipper, A^ermont, was born in Bel-
mont Co.,0., Nov., 1828; in 1839 he accompanied his father, Thos.
Sidwell, to this tp., who gained considerable re})utation as an agri-
culturist and sheep-raiser, and died in 1870. His wife's maiden
name was P^lizabeth Polk, and she died in 1845. El wood S., the
subject of this i)iography, grew to manhood in this county, followed
farming for many years, and in 1850 entered business with Cephas
Tolaiul and John S. Douglas ; in 6 years the style of the firm was
changed to Sidwell & Kelly, which continued 3 years. Mr. S. was
then in business at Odin, 111., awhile, and in 1868 returned to Ver-
mont, engaged in mercantile pursuits for a time, and then with Wm.
Provine bought an interest in the old East Mill. He now con-
ducts the grain elevator, which has a capacity of 12,000 bushels.
He married Miss Mary Anderson of Fulton Co., daughter of Rob-
ert Anderson, of Kentucky. They have one child, Mrs. S. died
in 1871 ; and in 1875 he married Mrs. Anna Swazey, daughter of
Dr. Owens, of McDonough Co.
Robert Smith, sec. 1 ; P.O., Ipava; was born in Cass county. 111.,
in 1855; his father, Daniel Smith, was a native of England, who was
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 929
well educated and came to this country in an early day, locating in
Cass Co., where he was a farmer and finally died. ^Irs. S. subse-
quently married a Mr. Biggs, and is still living. Robert came to
Fulton county in 1871, and in 1.S73 married Electa Brown in Pleas-
ant township, a daughter of Capt. Brown, of Ipava. Has had two
children, — Charles E. and Calvin, the latter deceased.
C. \V. Sperry, manufacturer of fine boots and shoes, Vermont,
was born in Ohio; in that State and New York he learned his trade;
in 1869 he married Docia Moore, a daughter of Thos. J. Moore of
Virginia; came to Vermont in 1870; has had 3 children, — Dewitt
beiniT the onlv one now liviny;.
■ Charles G. Stafford, farmer, sec. 12; P. O., Vermont; was born
in Appinoy, R, I., in 1815, which place was also the native place
of his father, Thomas R., a sailor; of his 9 children 7 are living;
Charles married Mary P. Burress, daughter of John R. Burress, in
Providence; worked princially at carpentering; in 1856 he settled
in this township; owns 193 acres of land; is a farmer, and has suc-
ceeded well; of his 9 children these 4 are living: Willard, Sarah,
Salina and Corrilla, — all married except the last. Mrs. S. died
Aug. 1, 1878.
Benj. Stevens, farmer, sec. 8; P. O., Vermont; was born in Phil-
adelphia in 1812; married Maria Dennis, daughter of Archibald
D., of Cumberland Co., Pa. Their only child, Sarah A., died in
1844. Mr. Benj. Stevens was reared on a farm, but also worked at
carpentering some ; moved to Steubenville, O., where he followed
his trade for 18 years ; then was 3 years in Iowa, and then (1872) he
settled in Vermont, but he now has a home on a farm.
Wm. Stoops, agriculturist, sec. 10; P. O., Vermont Michael
Stoops, a native of Penn. and a farmer, early settled in Ohio, and in
his Nth year married Ellen Van Sickle. They had 9 children, the
eldest of whom was the subject of this sketch, born Jan., 1815, in
Hamilton county, O. Mr. Michael Stoops, in 1836, came to Ful-
ton county. In early day Mr. Stoops suffered the extreme privations
of frontier life. The first two winters the bill of fare for the family
was hominy and venison; the wife's dress" linsey-woolsey; the
man's, buckskin. They had to get their groceries in Lewistown on
credit, and that was very dilficult. Milling was almost impossible
and the noted grater had to be used. Mr. Wm. Stoops' first wife
was Hannah Lyndsay, who died Jan. 33, 1852: they had 8 children.
His second wife was a Miss Keziah Clark, who died Dec. 28, 1860:
they had 5 children. His third wife, now living, was Mr. Mar-
garet Wentworth, of Kentucky, daughter of W'ni. Hannah. They
were married in 1862 and their children are 4.
Geo. Swarf z, cabinet-maker and joiner, is a native of Vermont, is
yet a young man, but is one of the most live business men in the
village, and one of the best workmen in the county. He is asso-
ciated with his mother and brother in the cabinet factory at Ver-
mont. He was united in marriage with Miss Emma Wors lell, of
Vermont, in 1875. They have one child, a bright little girl.
930 HISTORY OF FtTLTON COUNTY.
S. J. Swarfz & Son, manufacturers of furniture and upholstery,
and undertakers. About the year 1844 Benj. Swartz, a chair-maker,
of Northumberland Co., Pa., began business as a cabinet and chair-
maker in Vermont, with a capital of 75 cents; but in one year he
was able to return to Penn. and marry Miss Sarah Hamer, sister of
Col. Hamer, of Vermont. Coming back to this place he pursued
his calling and made money ; although very generous he accumu-
lated a great deal. He died Nov. 27, 1875, and Mrs. Swartz took
charge of the property, under the firm name above given. They
conduct a very successful business. The survivors of the family
are 7 in number. The G children are, John H., a member of the
firm ; George, who married Miss Emma Worsdell, of Vermont, and
has one child ; Nellie M. ; Margaret C. ; Anna M. and Ida E.
Sarah F. is deceased.
Benjamin Taylor, physician and surgeon,. Vermont, was born in
Chester Co., Pa., April 5, 1829; his father, Benjamin T., was also
a native of Penn., and a farmer by occupation, who married Miss
Hannah Richardson, and had 13 children, the subject of this sketch
being the youngest; he came to Vermont in 1850 and purchased a
piece of land ; but he concluded to study medicine, which he
did under Dr. Clark, of Rushville, and afterward became his part-
ner, soon attaining prosperitv- In 1853 he married Marietta Clark,
by whom he had 9 children; she died in 1868, and Oct. 21, 1869,
the doctor married Gabriella Gilson, daughter of Wm. G., of this
State; of this marriage 6 children are born, 5 of whom are living.
He is a relative of the late Bayard Taylor, the traveler, historian,
poet and U. S. Minister.
D. ir. Ten Eych, druggist, Vermont, came to this place from
Havana in February, 1877, bought out the stock and business of
T. J. Crail at an assignee's sale, and since then has been doing well.
He has had 11 years' experience in his business, and is careful and
reliable.
Thomas & Vermillion, brick-makers, Vermont. As early as 1855
Mr. Thomas followed brick-making, being employed by Mr. Glower;
in 1869 he formed a partnersiiip in the business with Horace Miner,
and after several changes in the style of the firm, he entered into
partnersiiip in 1876 with Ret. P. D. Vermillion. They have ship-
ped as many as 400,000 brick in one year.
George C. Thomas, farmer and stock-rai.ser, sec. 2 ; P. O., Ipava ;
born in Fulton Co., in 1844. His father, Wm. Thomas, was born in
Washington Co., Pa., in 1800, and was brought uj) a farmer; moved
to Ohio; in 1832, married Eliza Dobbins, daughter of Boyd Dob-
bins, a native of Virginia; came to Vermont tp. in 1835; he and
his wife are still living. They had 8 children, 7 of whom are living,
— Melissa, Martha, William* Thomas, Erastus, George C, and
Leander. George is the only one residing on the old homestead. In
1864 he married Rebecca Beers, daughter of Samuel and Phoebe
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 931
(Allen) Beers, and has had 5 children, 4 of whom are living, — Charles
E., Jabez B., Lillian (deceased) Delia and Marion G.
R. T. Thomafi, farmer, sec. 23 ; P. O., Ipava. Wm, A. Thomas
was an Ohio farmer who married Eliza Dobbins and had 8 children,
and settled in Vermont in 1.S29, Those old people still live here.
Robert T., their fourth child, was born in this tp. in 1839 ; enlisted
in Co. H, 28th 111. Inf., re-eidisted as a veteran, and at the close of
the war was honorably discharged. In 1867 he married Mrs.
Elizabeth Koons, widow of James Koons and daughter of Abram
Kost, and they have had 5 children, 3 of whom are living, — Hattie
M., Arzula and Mary.
Hiram S. T/iomns, postmaster, Vermont, was born in 1814 in
Adams Co., Pa. His father, Isaac Thomas, was a farmer, in limited
circumstances, and Hiram was brought up to hard work. Although
he did not attend school after he was 14 years of age, his native good
judgment has enabled him to school himself successfully in the prac-
tical affairs of life. In 1824 the family emigrated to Ohio, and in
1843 Mr. Hiram S., then a man of a family, emigrated to this tp.
He first was a tailor by occujiation, but in 1843 he began to lecture
on temperance, and continued with great success for manv years.
He stumped the State for the temiierance party in 1848, and was
nominated by the party for the Legislature. In 1861 Vermont had
grown to some importance as a commercial center, and Mr. T. was
appointed Postmaster, which position ho iias ever since filled except
for a short period, with satisfiiction to the public. While Mr. T.'s
temperance principles prevail in Vermont so that there are no sa-
loons there, he has otherwise done much for the business interests of
the place. In Lidiana, in 1843, he married Mary Witchell, daughter
of John and Bathshoba W., of Ohio. Cordelia and Edwin are their
children, the former station agent at Vermont and the latter the
wife of Dr. Parker, of Ipava.
Cephas To/and, retired merchant, was born in Washington Co.,
Pa., in 1816. His father, James T., also a native of Pa., a farmer,
married Margaret McWhirtcr, who died when Cephas was in
his 6th year. The latter then lived with an uncle until 14 years
old, when he for years followed the tannery business. Fire destroyed
his establishment in Alexandria, Va. He came, in 1840, to McDon-
ough Co., 111., where he taught school, and the following year he
commenced business in a tannery in Vermont, and then with Enos
Moneyhon in this place he entered the dry-goods and grocery busi-
ness; they dissolved partnorshij) in a few months, and Mr. T. en-
tered partnershi)) with J. H. Hughes and W. B. Wright in the same
business, adding the grain trade, and after some time Mr. T. became
a partner of John Shaffer, located at Sharpe's Landing, and did a
large business shipping grain. The warehouse burned down, and
Mr. T. went into the stock trade and succeeded well. In 1866 he
became a member of the firm of Toland, Sidwell & Douglas, Ver-
mont, and three years afterward retired to a farm of 320 acres which
932 . HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
he had previously purchased. He married America Anderson in
Vermont, in 1843.
Dr. W. II. Xance was born in Floyd Co., Indiana, Dec. 24th,
1814, a son of William Nance. He married Miss Susan, daughter
of Joal) and Hannah Lane, April 14th, 1836, and the same year
moved with his parents to Columbus, Adams Co., Ills. He studied
medicine under the care of Dr. D. G. Stewart of New Albany, Ind.,
but did not complete a full course of study till after moving to
Illinois. In the urgent demand for physicians at that time in Illi-
nois, he entered into a full practice without graduating, and contin-
ued for several years; but in the year 1848 entered the Medical De-
partment of the University of Missouri, located in St. Louis, and
in 1849 graduated, and again resumed his practice in Vermont, Ills.,
where he had resided for some years previously. For many years
he enjoyed an enviable reputation as a practitioner, and in the
course of his arduous labors succeeded in accumulating- a verv com-
fortable living. His father, William Nance, was a native of Vir-
ginia, brought up on a farm in that State, and about the year 1802
or 1803 was married to Miss Nancy Smith of Rockingham Co., N.
C. Soon after this they moved to Kentucky and remained one
year, and then crossed the Ohio into the dense wild forests of In-
diana Territory, and settled near the foot of the falls of the Ohio
river, a short distance below where the City of New Albany now
stands.^ In 1811 William Nance was a volunteer under Gen. Har-
rison (at that time Governor of the Territory) in his campaign
against the Indians, and was in the noted battle of Tipj)acanoe.
In 1836 he came to Adams Co., Ills,, where he died in his 68th
year, while Mrs. Nance lived to the good old age of 82 years.
Dr. Nance retired from active practice in 1862 on account of ser-
ious injuries received by a fall from a buggy, and is now with his
good lady and youngest daughter enjoying the comforts of a retired
life, after the heat and burdens and cares and responsibilities of an
active professional career have disappeared in the distance.
JoHepli Vaughn, farmer, sec. 24 ; P. O., Ij)ava ; was born in
Washington Co,, Pa., in 1808. His father, Jas. Vaughn, Mas also
born in Penn., and married Mary Schneider, by whom he had 10
children, Joseph being the eldest but one. When the latter was
about 11 vears of ajje the familv moved to Ohio, and four vears
afterward to A^irginia, where Joseph married Lavina Huff,
daughter of John HuH''. To those were born 9 ciiildren. Mrs. V.
died in 1863, and in 1865 Mr. V. married Mrs. Margaret Mitchell,
daughter of Robert Robinson and relict of- John Mitchell. Of
their five children four are living, — Mervin, Sarah, Lauriette and
Robert,
Isaac Walker, farmer, sec. 17; P. O., Vermont. Jesse Walker,
the father, was born in Ohio, and followed teaming over the Alle-
ghanics; he married Mary Wyant in Penn., by whom he had 7
children. Isaac, the third, was born in Penn. in 1838; about 1852
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 933
he came with the family to this tp. ; a portion of the time, however,
since then he has resided in Henry Co.; in 1861 lie married
Matilda Brock, daughter of Thos. H. Brock, of Ohio, by whom he
has 3 children, — Laura E., Dora B. and Charley.
\V. D. Walker, farmer and small-fruit-grower, was born in 1830
in Penn., in which StaiC his father, S. B. W., was also born and
pursued the occupation of fuller. Mr. S. B. married Nancy For-
syth, and 6 children were born to them, \Vm. D., the subject of
this sketch, being the fourth. Just before he was 21 he came afoot
to LaSalle Co., 111., but in a year returned to Ohio, and married
Sarah Stover, daughter of John and Sarah Stover, of Pa. In 1858
he emigrated to Vermont tp. He has had 3 children, — Amos
(died in infancy), Katy, who married Samuel A. Walker, of Mc-
Donough Co., and resides at Table Grove.
E. G. Webster, head salesman for J. & H. Mershon, was born in
Virginia in 1812, passed his boyhood in Kentucky, where he ob-
tained a good education and married Sarah A., daughter of John
Lawson ; in 1850 he came to Vermont and was immediately em-
ployed by Joab Mershon as salesman of dry goods, which j)osition
he has held ever since, — a fact which speaks volumes for Mr.
Webster's integrity. He has had 11 children, 7 of whom are living,
namely, J. W. and Luella, residents of Kansas; Sarah E., at Mi-
nonk. 111. ; Minerva, at Elgin, 111. ; Emma C, John and Edward
in Vermont. The last named is now studying medicine at Keokuk.
/. H. Welch, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 21 ; P. O., Vermont;
was born in Fulton Co. in 1834; his father, T. J. Welsh, was a
native of Virginia; in 1855 he married Rachel Knock, daughter
of Rev. Wm. Knock, and they have 5 children, viz : Wm. J., Maria
E., Laura, Freddie and Affie G.
Geo. Whitney, merchant, Vermont, was born in 1835, in Henni-
ker, N. H. ; remained on the farm with his father, Asa Whitney,
until his 19th year, when he came to Springfield, 111., where he
commenced on the Wabash railroad as brakeman, and was promoted
to the position of baggageman and finally conductor; in 1803 he
entered business with Grover Ayres, a leading merchant of Spring-
field, and two years afterward he retired from the dry-goods busi-
ness and began brick-making; in 1871-6 he was passenger con-
ductor on the Rock ford, Rock Island & St. Louis railroad, and
now he is a member of the prospe"ous dry-goods firm of Ayres
(Grover Ayres) & Whitney, Vermont.
Lewis Winans, deceased, was the son of M^ihlon and Elizabeth
Winans. He was born in Seneca Falls, N. Y., April 21, 1826;
was brought to Illinois in 1831, and ten years later left home to do
for himself He first learned the wagon-making trade ; he (juit
this and engaged as clerk in a dry-goods store at Canton. In 1846
he embarked in business at Vermont in connection with H. R.
Smith. Mr. S. was killed shortly afterward and the business was
settled up, and Mr. W. entered the services of Mr. Lynn of Ver-
934 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
mont as clerk, with whom he remained till 1849, when, in company
with J. H. B. Stevens and S. Hcizer, he again embarked in the
mercantile business. In the fall of the same year he was married
to Miss Sarah M. Scott. In 1867 he engaged in business at Ver-
mont alone, and continued until Dec, 1874, when, on account of ill-
health, he retired from active life, and July 9, 1875, he died. He
was a zealous and devout member of the Presbyterian Church, and
a man loved and respected by all who knew him. Mrs. Winans
resides at Galesburg. Their children living are Ross, who lives at
Canton, Fannie, the wife of Esquire J. R. Rothraan, Table Grove,
Myron, Lou, Henry, George and Charlie.
Keziah 11 ooc/, farmer, sec. 25; P. O., Ipava ; was born in Harri-
son Co., O., in 1814, son of Robert Wood, a native of Va., a far-
mer, who married Mary Kester and had 13 children ; Keziah was
the 10th; was reared in Ohio, a Quaker; married Mary, daughter
of John S. Kinsev, and has had 3 children, Elizabeth onlv surviv-
ing, who married Henry Phillips. Mr. Wood came to this tp. in
1846, buying 60 acres of land : he now owns 130 acres, well im-
proved.
Granville Wright, agriculturist and stock-raiser, sec. 8; P.O.,
Table Grove; born in Overton Co., Tenn., in 1820. Jonathan
Wright, his father, was a native of North Carolina, a wheelwright
at first, afterwards farmer; he married Jane Berry, a daughter of
Wm. Berry, of Abingdon, Va., and had 6 children, of whom Gran-
ville was the eldest. About 1829 thefauiily moved to Montgomery
Co., Ind., and in 1836 to this tp., purchasing and settling upon 160
acres of land. In 1846 he was married to Miss Elizabeth M. Curr,
daugiiter of Amaziah Curr, by whom lie had 6 children, 4 now liv-
ing and in this county. Mrs. W. died in 1860, and the next year
Mr. W. married Miss Amazinda, daughter of James Fonton, and
of this marriage there were two children. This wife died in 1868,
and Mr. W. married Lucy M. Kinney, daughter of R. W. Upson.
They had one child, who died Dec. 16, 1876. Mr W. now owns
320 acres of valuable land in this tp., and 380 in McDonough Co.,
and is a prominent stock-dealer. He has never sought office, but
has been School Trustee.
Josiah Zoll, farmer, was born in Jefferson Co., O., in 1810, son of
Peter Zoll, a native of Maryland; his mother's maiden name was
Catharine Wintcrbaker. He learned and followed the tanner's
trade. In 1832 he married Ruth Crothers, and two years later he
came and settled in tliis tp. Here he toiled through many a tedious
year, but with great success, as he is now able to take up his resi-
dence in town and enjoy for the remainder of his days the fruits of
his labor.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
935
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a list of the township officials serving since the
organization of the township, together with the years of serving:
SUPERVISORS.
Thomas Hamer 18-50
Jesse Burr 18.31-52
Jesse Cox 1853-56
Thomas Hamer 18)7
H. L. Rose 1858
Eleazar Kirkbride 185!)-61
Jesse Cox 1862
John Fleming 186r>
Eleazar Kirkbride 1864
Cephas Tohmd 1865
Eleazar Kirkbride 1866-67
Wm. H. Nance 1868-69
Patterson Hamer 1870-72
Wm. H. Nance 1S73
Robert Dilworth 1874
Evan Bailey 1875
RoI)ert Dilworth 1876
William Mellor 1877-79
TOWN CLERKS.
Lewis E. Kellv 1850-55
John H. Hunter 18.56
A. J. Herron 1857
Thomas Mellor 18.58
A. M. Ruble 18.i9
R. M. Scott ISliO
A. M. Ruble 1861
A. 0. Bruner 1862
Robert Mathewson 1862
Martin Mercer 1863
John H. Hunter 1864
Wm. Griffin 1865
Wm. Mellor 1866
John H. Hunter 1S67-68
William Mellor 1869
Samuel H. Speer 1870
C. L. Wann 1871
Joiin A. Webster 1872-79
ASSESSORS.
Jas. W. Kelly 1850
Evan Bailey 1851
G. F. Henclrickson 1852
Evan B liley 18-53-54
Cephas Toland 18-55
Evan Bailey 18.')()-60
Godfrey Sheeler 1861-62
Al)ram K(jst 1863
Godfrey Sheeler 1864
Josiah ZoU 1865
Ross R. Atherton 1866
James Dilworth 1867
Samuel R. Speer 1868
John C. Dobbins 1868
Carither Zoll 1870
Joseph D. Powell 1871-72
John A.Webster 1873
Joseph ;M. Argo 1874-75
Jesse Bogue 1876-78
C. B. Cox 1879
COLLECTORS.
William Kirbv 18-50
0. C. P. Smith 1851
Evan B.iiley 18.i2-53
Thomas Hamer 18.54
Cephas Toland 18.-)5
Evan Bailey 18.i6-60
John A. Webster 18()l-62
G. Sheeler 1863
1. B. Witchell 1864
Wm. Alexander 1865
Wm. Griffin 1865
Samuel R. Speer 1866-67
William Mellor 1868
Samuel R. Speer 1869
David A. Beal 1870
Andrew B. Kirkbride 1871
Moses C. Mathewson 1872
Wm. Alexander 1873
C. B. Cox 1874
Samuel M. Trigley 1 75
I. B. Witchell ...'. 1876
Godfrey Sheeler 18/7
David Deobler 1878-79
AVATERFORD TOWNSHIP.
Upon the. southeast quarter of section 10 of this township the
first permanent setth'r of the grand old county of Fulton located.
This individual was John Evelaud. He located here with his fami-
ly in 1820. We speak at greater length of Mr. Eveland and his
settlement here in the first chapter, and refer the reader to that in-
stead of repeating the account here. This is only a fractional town-
ship and the smallest in the county except Ellisville township.
There are 12,372 acres of land in Waterford, 5,995 of which are
improved. The average value of land of this township is below
that of any other in the county. There are, however, some fine
farms and enterprising farmers in Waterford. There are sev-
eral very interesting mounds, thrown up doubtless by the pre-his-
toric Mound-Builders. Some of these have yielded some rare and
interesting relics. There are in the township 322 horses, 284 cat-
tle, 47 sheep, and 668 hogs.
WATERFORD.
The town of Waterford, which is on Spoon river, just below
where John Eveland settled, is one of the oldest places in the Mili-
tary Tract. It was laid off bv John Jackson Mar. 24, 1825, and al-
though at one time promised to become quite a point, never grew
to any prominent position. Few cabins are all that mark the place
of Waterford at present.
PERSONAL SKETCHES.
Elis Bowman was born in Adams Co., O., in 1823, son of Joseph
and Sarah (Swangum) ; emigrated to Fulton Co. in 1835; in 1849
he married Sarah Cox, and they have had two daughters and one
son, all married. Son lost his wife a few months ago. Coming to
this section in the early time that Mr. Bowman did, he saw pioneer
life in all its phases. He has seen as many as 100 deer in one gang ;
has killed 5 in one day.
John W. Brechenridge came to Fulton Co. in 1854, and is engaged
in farming upon sec. 1 ; was born in Canada July 18, 1836, and is
the son of John and Margaret (Eaton) B. He married Adaline
Preyir in 1858, who bore him 4 children, — 3 boys and 1 girl — 2 of
the fitrmcr only are living. He and his wife are both members
of the M. E. Church. Mr. B. has been School Director 12 years.
Town Clerk 6 vears, etc.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 937
Wm. Dickson was born in Kentucky April 17, 1826, son of
Alexander and Mary (Musett), of English ancestry ; came to Ful-
ton Co. in 1834; is a farmer on sec. 1, owning 400 acres; in 1849
he married Xancy Jane Arnett, and had 3 boys and 1 girl ; in 1873
ho married M:iry Ashby, by whom he has had '2 daughters. Names :
John W., Charles M., David L., Anna A., Minnie M, and Francis
C. Mr. Dickson has been a local preacher in the M. E. Church
for 20 years.
T. li. Gibncy is the son of Henry and Sarah Ann (Franks) G.,
both natives of Penn. Mr. G. is the owner of a farm on sec. 6,
Waterford township. In 1862 he enlisted in Co. H, 103d 111. Inf.,
under Capt. Wriglit ; was in 26 battles. He was struck twice by
rebel bullets and once by a piece of a shell and had a rib broken ;
served 3 years. He was in every battle and skirmish the 103d was
except one. He was married in 1860 to Harriet Davis. They
have 3 children living : Wm. H., George Warren and John F.
John S. Hardin wsLS born in North Carolina March 23, 1816, son
of Richard M. and Spicy A. (Lafo), emigrated to this county Oct.
11,1848, settling on sec. 10; this township; occupation varied;
Oct. 22, 1848, he married Sarah Hamilton, and they have had 6
boys and 6 girls; has 300 acres of land.
I). M. Jenkins, born in Hamilton county, in 1832, is the son of
Thomas S. and Mary A. (Shelton), the latter of Kentucky, the
former of Tennessee; is a farmer on sec. 2; was married in March,
1859, to Mary Jane (Peterson) ; has 3 boys and 2 girls living; father
was a Methodist preacher; in 1862 he enlisted in the famous 103d,
Co. H, and was discharged August, 186."), having fought the battles
of Vicksburg, ^lissionary Ridge and Resaca, and wounded in the
latter, and was in many other celebrated engagements.
Findley Krugan was born in the Buckeye State April 29, 1818,
the son of Joseph and Eleanor (Bennett) K., natives of Virginia;
he was left an orphan at 1 1 years old, and never attended school ; he
is a farmer on sec. 4, owning 260 acres. In 1842 he married Maria
Johnson; of their 12 children 8 are living. He came to Fulton
county in 1840. In 1862 he enlisted in Co. A, 103d 111. Inf ; was
wounded at Atlanta and discharged in 1865.
Samuel Jackson, farmer, see. 2; was born in Tazewell county, 111,,
March 17, 1839; his parents were George and Sudner (Tanner),
natives of Virginia; came to Fulton county in 1865; July 8, 1862,
he enlisted in the 85th Regt., Co. A, and was discharged May 25,
1865 ; was in all the battles of his Regt. except one. Of his mar-
riage in 1869 is one boy, and of that in 1878 one girl.
Wm. P. Miles, was born in this tp., on sec.'6, July 12, 1854, son
of Joseph and Isabel (Porter) ; attended the Lewistown high scliool ;
by occupation is a farmer. March 6, 1868, he married Ilattie Eve-
laud. They have a son.
Ebenezer Paul was born in Maine, Aug. 8, 1807, son of Joseph
and Hannah (Roberts), also natives of Maine; in 1837 he emigrated
938 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
to Fulton county; is a farmer and brickmaker; owns a farm on
sec. 12, 3 east. In 1828 he married Rachel Elrod ; of his 11 child-
ren only 2 are ^irls : Eliza Jane, born March 27, 1834, and Mary
F., Oct. 22, 1845, both married.
John Tidfe, son of James and Sarah (Cautrhrey), was born in
Pennsylvania, Nov. 3, 1828 ; father a native of Ireland and mother
of Penn.j-emip-ated to Fulton Co. in 1864; was a carpenter 20
years; is now farming on sec. 4; has also taught school some, and
been a local M. E. Preacher for 12 years; in 1848 he married Cath-
erine Martin, and they have had 3 boys and 4 girls.
David Warner, farmer, sec. 1 ; is a native of Madison Co., O.,
where he was born April 2, 1815. His parents, Charles and Chloe
(Johnson) Warner, were natives of Mass. and Conn., respectively.
He has owned and run two saw-mills for 10 years. He came to
Fulton Co. in May, 1837, and has lived in Waterford township
ever since, 4 years of which time he has taught school. He was
the first Assessor under the township organization and has been for
8 years since. School Director for 15 years, and Trustee for 5. He
was married April 8, '45, to Mary Baudlc, in Cook Co. 111. They
have 5 children living of 8 born to them. Mr. W. is a member of
the M. E. Church. He was a member of the Presbyterian Church
for 30 years, and Superintendent of Sunday-school for that long.
He is now Class-Leader.
Samuel Warner, farmer, was born in Madison Co., O., Xov. G,
1816, the son of Charles and Chloe (Johnson) W. He was married
to Isabel Heslep in 1858. Chloe Belle was born to them June 21,
1860. Mrs. AV. died Feb. 22, 1873. Mr. W. and daughter are
members of the Presbyterian Church, and Mrs. W. was before
her death. His daughter is a graduate of the High School at
Lewistown.
Louisa William.'ion was born in P^rie Co., X. Y., in 1811. Her
parents were Samuel and Mary (Waite) ^letcalf. She was married
in 1838 to Christopher B. Miles, son of Jk^njamin M. Mrs. W.'s
parents emigrated to Knox Co., 111., in 1835, and Louisa was mar-
ried at Knoxville in 1838, when she and her husband came to Ful-
ton Co. He died on his farm, sec. 6, this tp., in 1868. In 1879
she was married to David K. Williamson, a native of 111.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following gentlemen have served the township since its or-
ganization in the various official capacities named :
SUPERVISORS.
Thomas S. Jenkins 18n0-52 Benjamin Prichard 1869
Joseph Miles ia53 Nathaniel Porter 18^0-71
Thomas S. Jenkins ]8o-t-57 James Heslep 1872-73
Freilrick Krel)aum 1858 John Tuite 1874
Fredriek Kreliauin 1861-63 Nathaniel Porter 1875
Thomas S. Jenkins 1864 Benjamin Prichard 1876
Fredrick Krehaum 1865-66 David M. Jenkins 1877
Thomas S. Jenkins 1867 Benjamin Prichard 1878-79
James Heslep 1868
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
9-39
TOWN CLERKS.
Selah Wheadon 1850
Wm. J. Marshall 1851
J(i.se})h Mill's l<So2
Selah H. Wheadon 1853-54
Jeremiah Paul 1855
Divid M. Jenkins 1856
G. D. Previr 1857-62
William Shelby 1863
Hiram Johnson 1864
D. M. Jenkins 1866-67
William Shelhy 1868
John S. Hardin 1869
J. W. Breckenridge 1870-71
William Shelby 1872-73
D. M. Jenkins 1874
J. W. BrerkenridK'e 1875-76
Abraham Peterson 1877
John W. Breckenridge 1873-79
ASSESSORS.
David Warner 1850
J. J. Hamilton 1851-52
David Warner 1853-62
David Warner 1866
C. B. Miles 1867
A. H. Payne 1868
Findlev Kriigan 1869
Wm. M. Shelby 1870-71
David Warner.' 1873
Wm. M. Shelby 1874-76
David Warner 1877
Wm. M. Shelby 1878-79
COLLECTORS.
Joseph Miles 1850
J.J. Hamilton 1851
A. H. Payne 18-52-62
Thomas S. Jenkins 1863
AVra. Dirk-son 1864
James Priihard 1865-66
K. K. Lynn 18()7
Benj. Priehard 1868
Nathaniel Porter 1869
T. V. Ogden 1870-71
Jesse Livingsford 1872
A. H. Payne 1873
AVni. Dickson 1873-74
Benj. Prichard 1875
Nathaniel Porter 1876
Wm. Dickson 1877
Wm. J. Short 1878
John S. Hardin 1879
WOODLAND TOWNSHIP.
This township, which is 2 east of the Fourth Principal Meridian
and 3 north of tlie Base Line, is certainly one of the finest agricul-
tural townships in Central Illinois. Tall, heavy timber at one
time covered almost its entire surface, but the energy and industry
of the sturdy pioneers who settled here, and the like characteristics
of their children have converted the woodland into fine farms, under
a high state of cultivation. The name the township bears, which at
one time was so appropriate, is no longer applicable to the condition
of the township in this respect.
The number of acres of land in the township is 23,000, being the
largest Congressional townshij) in the county except Cass. The
number of acres of land under cultivation is 12,280. The
total value of land is ^278, 929. There are of horses 549, valued at
$19,849 ; cattle 1,552 valued at $16,251 ; mules 37 ; sheep 656 ; hogs
2,687, valued at $5,516.
J. N. Hasson, deceased, came to the county in 1835, and taught
school considerably. The first winter he taught school in "Woodland
township. While teaching here during this winter Mr. H. shot and
killed 16 deer while going to and from his house, to the school-
house, a distance of 3 miles. To do this he never left the beaten
road over 200 yards. In this way he furnished all the fresh meat
for his family. He never went lumting but carried a gun on his
way to school. This to an extent shows the abundance of game in
this township in an early day.
As we give such a general historical sketcli of the township in
the personal sketches of the pioneers and leading citizens given
below, we will not repeat here, but proceed to detailing the history
of the only town within its borders.
SUMMUM.
Summum is a small village situated u])on section 4. It was laid
out as a town about 1851, by James M. Onion. Long years prior to
this, however, Peter "Summy " kept a postoflice here, and the same
time attended to his farm duties. He Mas well known throughout
this section. From this fact the nickname of Summum was applied
to the town when platted. " Sumnmm " is a I>atin word and means
summit, hence one would infer from the name that the town was
situate<l upon an eminence. The meaning of the Latin word, how-
ever, evidently had no part in giving the place this name. Mr.
" Summy's" successor was James Gasaway.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 941
Tlie town obtained no importance whatever until after its organi-
zation. It was laid out, and James M. Onion erected a frame build-
ing and laid in an assortment of dry-goods. Washington Shields
also displayed considerable enterprise in the erection of two substan-
tial frame buildings. Next in order came Richard Lane, then
Fraley and Severns, who all actively engaged to build uj) the new
town. John Shank was the first Postnuister after the town was
laid out, and from him this sketch is obtained.
As is well known, Snmmum is an inland town, having no railroad
communications, yet its prosperity will compare favorably with
other towns of like situation and similar size. Among the more
representative men of the place are James M. Onion, John Baum-
gartner, Dr. J. H. Breeden, Joel Onion, Joel Barnes, John Langston,
Dr. L. L. Wakefield, Christ. McLaren, John Shank and others.
The village has a poj)ulation of about 200 inhabitants. No saloons
are tolerated or anything that will bring discord to the peaceful
community. In the town are 3 stores, postoffice, blacksmith shop,
saw-mill and cabinet-shop. Joel A. Barnes, grain dealer, presides
over the only flour and feed store, James M. Onion is the owner
of the mill, and he secures a good trade as do the merchants of the
place, of whom we give further notice among the personal sketches.
By way of explanation we will state that the proper name of the town
is Oberlin. It is not generally known that it was platted as such.
By some means this name fell into disuse and very few of the peo-
ple Avould recognize the place by that name. There are three
Churches in the place. The Baj)tist people organized and built a
church edifice in 18G7. Rev. Odell, Pastor. The membership
numbers about 100. There is also a German Reformed Church,
which is in a prosperous condition and has a membership of 100.
The Christian Church structure was erected in 1865. The con-
gregation has no regular pastor at present. The Robinson school-
house was built in 1859, and is noted for the excellent school held
there.
Before giving the personal history we will speak of the German
Baptist Church, one of the principal religious organizations of the
township.
The German Baptist or Dunkard Church. — The history of this
Church, as obtained from an interview with Jesse Danner, one of the
first members of this organization, relates that the first meetings
were held in jirivate dwellings, the first services were held in 1853;
the first minister was John Fitz, now a resident of Iowa. The
members of the organization, as far as learned, were John Fitz and
wife, Jesse Danner and wife, Samuel Falkenstine and wife and
Susan Stambaugh. The first church for regular worship was built
about 18()7, and the congregation then comprised about 100 mem-
bers. The several pastors since the organization have been John
Fitz, Jesse Danner, Joseph Ringer and Solomon Hamm ; the present
pastor is David Miller, and the membership is about 100. The
55
942 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Deacons of the Cluirch are: John Scliislcr, Dan'l Keller and
Henry Danner. The German liapti.st Cliurcli, or, as it is more
familiarly known, the Dunkard, is a substantial frame building.
Its members are among the more opulent farmers and Christian
people of the township.
PERSONAL HISTORY.
The personal history of any community is the most important
and valuable portion. We realize this, and in detailing the history
of Woodland township, speak very generally of those brave and
sturdy pioneers who have converted the forests into fruitful fields,
and who are to-day producing from the earth vast wealth.
[Vm. Aten, farmer, sec. 7 : P. O., Astoria ; was born in Hancock
Co., Ya., Oct. 8, 1821 ; married Elizabeth Pittinger, a daughter of
John Pittinger, who settled in Va. in pioneer times; in 1844 he
came from Va. to Illinois, settling in Vermont tp., where he en-
tered a tract of land; disposing of this in 1848, he settled in Wood-
land tp., where he purchased his present farm of 160 acres, on
which he has erected a substantial brick residence. Of their 10
children 8 are living, — ]\Ielissa, Sarah C, Emma A. (school-teacher),
John P., Willie K., Henry M., Ida M. and Mary E.
Lucius Atwater, agriculturist; was born in Coshocton Co., O., in
1827; his father, Lyman Atwater, was born in the State of Conn.,
where he followed farming; he moved to the State of Xew York in
an early day, where he married Jane Leftiingwell, by whom he had
10 children : 9 are living, — Miles and Marcus, residents of McDon-
ough Co.; Wesley resides in Pleasant tp., this Co.; Jas. and Caro-
line reside in this tp. ; Eliza resides in Barton Co., Mo.; Zilla lives
in Neb.; William resides in Lynn Co., Kan.; Charles, deceased,
and Lucius. Lyman Atwater settled in Eultou Co. 6 miles east of
Astoria in 18:34. After many years of hard labor Mr. Atwater
secured a well improved farm; he died in his 62d year; Mrs. A.
survived her husband manv rears, dvinjr in 1874. Lucius Atwater
grew to manhood in Eulton Co.; March 15, 1855, he married Caro-
line Rounds, a daughter of Joseph and S;irah Pounds, by whom
he has 8 children, — Francis M., Jas. A., Harry H., Ulysses G.,
Sarah J., Emma E., Birdie E. and Geo. O. Mr. Atwater is the
owner of .'MO acres of most valuable land.
Joel A. Barnes, trader and grain dealer, Summum; was born in
Woodland township; his father, Aquila Barnes, was a native of
Pa., and followed farming and blacksmithing; he removed to Har-
rison county, Indiana, where he was united in marriage to Miss
Elizabeth Onion, who bore him 10 children, of whom the subject of
this sketch was the 6th child. He was born in 1844; in his 17th
year he enlisted in Co. H, 85th 111. Inf., proceeding to the front he
became a pirticipant in many noted battles. When the war closed
he returned to his old home in Fulton county, where he has since
lived, taking up his residence at Summum; here he practices the
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 943
profession of attorney, and engages somewhat extensively in trading!
/. L. Baunif/drfner, merchant, Siimmum. This gentleman is a
native of Pa., where he was born on the 14th of Jannary, 1846 ; his
fatlier, Samuel B., is a resident of this village. John passed his boy-
hood in Pa., where he received a liberal education and became em-
ployed from early youth upon a farm. In his 20th year he moved
West, settling in Summum, where he was united in marriage to Miss
Allie Horton, a daughter of Ezra Horton of Ohio; they have 3
children : Harry O., Geo. B. and Leona B. In 1875 Mr. B. began
life as a merchant, and has succeeded in securing a large trade.
John Blggfi, farmer, sec. 2 ; P. O., Summum ; the subject of this
sketch is a native of Coshocton county, Ohio, where he was born ni
the year 1814; his father, Wm. Briggs, was a native of Virginia;
his parents crossed the ocean for the New World in an early day
and settled in Virginia. Wm. came to Ohio as early as 1800; he
was in the war of 1812 ; he was married to Miss Hester Markley.
At the age of 27 he (John) moved into Knox county, Ohio, where
he was united in marriage in 1842 to Mrs. Elizabeth Burr, by whom
he had 2 children : Eliza and Mary E. Mrs. Biggs died in Knox
county. Mr. B. served 5 months on the transport, Duke of Argyle ;
in 1863 he settled in Woodland township. Mr. B. married his
second wife, Mrs. Catherine Eleming, who bore him 3 children:
Zachariah, Anna and John W.
James Biihop, farmer, sec. 32; P.O., Astoria; was born in 1853
in Indiana; his father, John Bishop, was born in Indiana, where he
married Miss Susan Pennington, by whom he had 14 children. Jas.,
the 3d child, grew u)) in Iowa and Kansas, where his parents had
moved; in 1872 Mr. B. became a resident of this Co.; in 1874 he
married Miss Jane Bryant, a daughter of W. F. Bryant, by whom
he has two children, — Wm. F. and Mary A. Owns 40 acres of
land.
John Bloomfield, agriculturist; was born in Butler Co., O., Jan.
9, 1807; his father died when he (John) was but 7 months old ;
learned the wagon-nviker's trade under an older brother, Joseph
Bloomfield; in November, 1830, he married Mary Fa wcett, of But-
ler Co.; in 1837 he journeyed to Illinois; near Sharpe's Landing,
in Schuyler Co., he lived 11 months, when he bought a farm in
Woodland tp. ; in process of time he acquired 280 acres, heavily
timbered, however, which he improved; he was twice married ; by
the first marriage he had 7 children, 5 of whom grew to mature
years: Emily, who married Jesse Mead and resides in Lewistown;
Ira J., a lawyer, who married Kate I. Young and resides in Bloom-
ington ; was Brigadier General in the late war ; Henry T., who mar-
ried Mrs. Nancy Shields, and died at Nashville in the army; Levi,
who married Hilpa Younker, of Ohio, and resides in Colorado;
Miry, who married Scott Hughes, and resides in this tp. Mrs. B.
died Oct. 29, 1852. Sept. 14, 1854, Mr. B. married Margaret Lit-
tlejohn, relict of Abram Littlejohn and daughter of Edward Little-
944 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
John, of Va., and they have 3 sons and 2 daughters: ^rary, who
married Lewis Anderson and lives in Kansas; Louisa J., who mar-
ried Solomon Still, residing: in this tp. ; James, who married Nancy
Paten, and now resides in Kansas; Ellen, who married Jas. Atwater
and lives at Duncan City; John, who married Nancy A. Thompson
and resides in Schuyler county; has 3 children, — Abram, a
school-teacher, and residing on the homestead, as also Lot, who
married Rosanna Eley, in this tp., and Peter, who also resides on
the homestead, comprising 160 acres of well improved land. The
residence was erected in 1856. ^Ir. B. was one of the three com-
missioners who laid off this county into townships and named them.
F. A. Bohl, agriculturist, was born at Baden, Germany, A])ril 6,
1833; his father, Nicholas l^ohl, resides in this township; Fred-
erick was but 4 years of age when his parents crossed the ocean for
the New World; they remained in Penn. a short time, when they
moved West, settling in this tp. ; Frederick had preceded his par-
ents a short time. He had learned the trade of a blacksmith and
accordingly opened a blacksmith and repair shop in partnership
with John Shannon, of Astoria. Mr. B. was a skillful workman
and a rapid one ; in one day he drove 67 horse shoes, which has prob-
ably never been equaled. At the end of 4 years he purchased his
farm; in 1860 he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah A\ eese, a
daughter of Samuel Weese, by whom he has two children, — Ed-
ward V. and Robert L.
Charles li. Brauson, farmer, sec. 10; P. O., Summum ; is a native
of Jefferson Co., O., where he was born Jan. 13, 1836; in 1839 he
settled in Fulton Co., where our subject passed his childhood and
grew to manhood. In Aug., 1862, he enlisted in Co. H. 85th 111.
Inf, and participated in the more noted battles of the Rebellion.
In 1865 he was united in marriage to Miss Martha Rankin, a
daughter of Wm. Rankin. There were born of this marriage 2
children, 1 living.
Thomas R. Branson, farmer, sec. 15; P. O., Summum ; was born
in Jefferson Co., O., Aug. 7, 1832. His father, Chas. C. B., was a
native of England ; he came to America and married Miss E.
Horner; came to Pleasant tp., this Co., in 1838, and died in 1872.
In 1863 Thomas enlisted in Co. D, 151st 111. Inf, and served 1
year. He married Miss Charlotte Dil worth in 1856 ; she died in
1871, and in 1872 he married Miss Adeline B. Witchell.
Dr. J. 11. Brccdcn. Dr. Breeden ranks among the wealthier class
of citizens of the county ; he is a native of Sullivan Co., Ind.,
where he was born in 18,34 ; his father, Lewis Breeden, has followed
farming from boyhood, and is now a resident of this State.
He married Miss Anna Ileudy, a daughter of Dr. Samuel Hendy,
of New York State. There were born of this marriage 7 children,
of whom the subject of this sketch was the oldest. He was but 7
years of age when the family settled in Pike Co., 111. At the age
of 22 years he began the study of medicine under Dr. D. W. Par-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 945
kins, of Havana, 111.; in 1856 he entered Rush Medical College,
Chicago. On leaving the Garden City the Doctor looked about
him for a suitable town to jiraetice his profession, and accordingly
located in Snmnuini, where he has since resided. His skill as a
physician is too well known to the people of this county to be called
in question ; as farmer, merchant and physician he has succeeded
well. March 6, 1856, he was united in marriage to Mrs. Sarah A.
Stover, a daughter of Col. Stover, of Ohio; they have 3 children:
Harvey O., Lewis C. and Dolly.
Isaac L. Camp, farmer, sec. 26 ; P. O., Astoria ; was born in Co-
shocton Co., O., in 1833, where he grew to manhood, receiving a
good, liberal education ; in 1858 he married Mrs. Lydia K. Smith, a
daughter of Uriah Kinsev, and relict of Wm. Smith ; of this mar-
riage 2 children were born, — Arnold D., and Elmer E., deceased.
Mrs. Cam]) survived her marriage but 3 years; in 1863 Mr. C. was
united in marriage to Isabel Enyart, of Licking Co., O. They have
5 children, — Mary E., Cha'^. E., Emm(^t L., Wm. I. and Horace
G. ; Hugh, deceased. Mr. C. settled in Woodland tp. in 1864, win-
tering nearSummum; the following spring he purchased 40 acres.
Mr. Camp luis been Supervisor, Assessor, Road Commissioner,
School Trustee, etc.
Peter S. Camp, farmer; P.O., Astoria; was born in Ohio in
1839 ; his father, Josephus Camp, was a native of Ohio ; in his youth
he began the study of medicine and in after years gained a large
practice as a physician. AA'hile a resident of Ohio he was united in
marriage to Miss Elizabeth Parker, who bore him 7 children ; Peter,
the 3d child, grew to manhood in Ohio; 13 years ago he located in
Eulton county, where he was married to Miss Louisa Rogers, and
their 2 children are Bessie and Marion.
G, W. Clark, farmer, sec. 6; P. O., Astoria; is a native of Ohio,
where he was born in the year 1843; liis father, Wm. G. Clark, was
also born in Ohio, where he married his first wife, Mrs. Ra(!hel
Knock, by whom he had 6 children. Geo. W. was the fourth child
born of this marriage; in 1836 Wm. Clark moved to Illinois, locating
in Vermont tp. ; he enlisted in Co. B, 84th 111. Inf., for 3 years ; par-
ticipated in the more noted battles of the Rebellion ; when the war
closed he returned to Fulton county. He was united in marria<x(> to
Miss Edith M. Storekin, by whom he has 5 children : Sarah J.-,
Eliz'ibeth B., Emma A., Olla and Wm. Monroe. Mrs. Clark died
Feb., 1879.
Francis A. Cooper, deceased, was born in Pa.; when young, his
parents emigrated with him to Ohio, where he grew to manhood
and followed farming; in 1859 he moved to this township, where in
after years he purchased 80 acres of valuable land. Decemb(>r, 1862,
he married Miss Angeline Potter, by whom he had 2 children, —
Wm. S. and Francis A. Mr. C. was Township Clerk at one time,
taught school some, and died in 1866.
George Cooper, farmer, sec. 1 ; P. O., Summum ; is a native of
f)46 fliStORY OF FULTOX COUNTY.
Holmes Co., O., where he was born in 1839; his father was Charles
Cooper, a well known resident of Fulton county ; in an early clay
he moved to Ohio, where he was united in marriage to Miss Kuth
Rumphiy, by whom he had 4 children, — George, John, Abraham
and 5lary. Charles Cooper became a resident of Fulton county in
1846, settled in \\'()odland township, and died one year afterward.
Mrs. Cooper, who was born in Hohiies county, Ohio, is still living, a
resident of Bernadotte tp. ; George received a liberal education ;
when the war broke out he enlisted in Co. G, 85th 111, Inf.; was
honorably discharged at Washington, D. C. ; he returned to Fulton
county, where he has since resided ; in 1868 he was united in marriage
to Miss Martha Shields, a daughter of Kinsey Shields, whose
sketch is found in this volume. Two children were born of this
marriage, — Mary C. and Charles K.
Jacob Cossairt, of the firm of S. A. Robinson & Co., mill owners,
was born in Ohio in 1834. His father, Francis Cossairt, was born in
Warren Co., O., where he followed farming, and married Mary J.
Phillips, by whom he has had 6 boys and 3 girls. Jacob, the sec-
ond child, received a liberal education ; when the war broke out he
was a resident of Missouri, where he enlisted in Co. I, 8th Mo. Cav. ;
rose through meritorious conduct to the Captaincy; was honorably
discharged at the close of the war; in former years, while residing
in Iowa, he married Miss Hettie Alcorn, by whom he has 8 chil-
dren ; from Missouri, in 1877, he moved to Fulton Co., 111., locat-
ing in Woodland tp., where, in connection with S. A. Robinson he
purchased an interest in the saw-mill above mentioned.
M. L. Curless was born in Ohio Dec, 1835; in 1846 he accom-
panied his parents to 111., locating in Woodland tp., where a farm of
160 acres was purchased; enlisted as First Lieutenant in Co. G,
8oth Reg., 111. Inf., and became a participant in many noted bat-
tles; resigned his commission in 1863, owing to ill health. Prior
to the Rebellion he had married, in Schuyler Co., 111., Armintha
McDaniel, of Ohio; there were born of this marriage 6 children, —
Frank, John Edward Thackleus, Lincoln, Annabelle and Gertrude
Isabelle. Mr. C. owns 320 acres of land in high cultivation.
Daniel Banner, farmer, was born in Penn. June 16, 1842, son of
Henry Banner, who was born in Pa., where he married Catharine
Lennif, by whom he had 8 children. Daniel, the 5th child, grew
to manhood in Pa., where he received a liberal educati(»n and fol-
lowed farming; 14 years ago he landed in Fulton county, where he
has since resided; in 1865 he married Miss Eliza Shatter, a daugh-
ter of John Shaifcr, of Pa. ; of this marriage 5 children were born,
3 of whom are living, — Alice, Moses and Laura.
Jesse Banner, agriculturist, is a native of Pennsylvania, where
he was born in 1812; received a liberal education; brought up a
farmer, then followed the occui)ation of carpenter; while residing
there he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Lipe, by whom he
had 5 children, — John, Martha, Jacob, Barbara and Henry. In
HISTOHY OF FULTON COUNTY. 947
1834 Mr. D. removed to Ohio where he became employed in a dis-
tillery for a jseriod of 3 years ; then he returned to Pennsylvania,
where he followed farming until 1850, when he settled in this town-
ship, purcimsing 160 acres of land; to-day ht; owns over 400 acres
and a handsome residence. Mrs. D. died July 24, 1844. In 1845
Mr. D. united his fortunes to Miss Elizabeth Hohf, by whom he had
7 children : 4 of them are living.
Joseph Dobfton, deceased, was a native of Green county, Ky.,
where he was born in the year 1805; he grew toward manhood an
adventurous youth, for early in life he became employed on flat-
boats, making the usual trips to New Orleans; after many weeks
spent upon the Mississippi, in an early day, probably in 1831, he
moved to Indiana, where he was j)reviously united in marriage to
Miss Elizabeth Shields, a daughter of Joseph Shields, During the
autumn of 1833, Mr. D. settled in Kerton township, Fulton county.
The survivors of their family are Mrs. Dobson, who was born Sept.,
1811, in Indiana, and had 7 children; Wm., who married Miss
Sarah Shelley; James, who mirried Lucretia Brokaw; Martin,
who resides in Sunimum, married Hannah Mercer ; George, who
married Mary E. Brown; Hardin resides in Wisconsin ; Anna, who
resides on the old homestead, mirried John Rankin, a native of
Ohio, who settled in this township, in 1847 ; there were born of
this marriage 4 children, — Clara, John M., Rodney C. and William.
Scott Dobson, youngest son of Joseph Dobson, resides on the old
homestead. Mr. D. was a somewhat noted deer hunter, and killed,
according to an account kept, nearly 2,000 deer. He was an extra-
ordinary marksman; used the old long rifle of Kentucky, which is
still in the possession of the family.
31. K. Dobson, blacksmith, Summum ; was born in this township
in 1843; received a good com;u')n-sehool education; in August,
1862, he enlisted in Co. H, 85th III. Inf ; was in the battles of
Perryville. Murphreesboro, Chickamauga, Mission Ridge, Buzzard
Roost, Kenesaw Mountain, Jonesboro, Snake Creek Gap, Resaca,
Peach Tree Creek and others; returning home he learned the trade
of blacksmithing; Nov. 9, 1870, he married a lady of Vermont,
Fulton county, by whom he has 3 children, — Olive, Joseph and
Dora.
Asa Datton, farmer, sec. 3 ; P. O., Summum. This gentleman is
a native of Brown Co., O., where he was born in the year 1833; he
was 10 years of age when his parents settled in Fulton Co.; Jan.
loth, 183), he w.h U!iit3d in mirriag3 to Miss Mirtha J., daughter
of Wm. H. Browning, of Ohio ; 8 children blessed this union:
Flora A., Mary M., Sarah B., Wm. H. H., Jas. A., Eliza, Lucinda
and Marcel 1 us.
Daniel Datton, farmer, sec. 35 ; P. O., Bluff City ; was born in
1833, in Brown Co., O. ; in 1819 he aci;ompanied his parents, Moses
and R.'becca Dutton, to Illinois, settling in Woodland tp., where
the subject of this sketch grew to manhood; in 1862 he enlisted in
948 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Co. H, 85th 111. Inf., became a participant in many noted battles,
as Perryville, Stone River, Chickam \iiga, Jonesboro, Kenesaw Mt.,
Peach Tree Crock, Buzzard Roost, and many others of less impor-
tance ; honorably discharg-cd when the war closed, he returned to
his old home in Fulton Co., where in 18GG he mirried Mrs. Mary
Markley, daughter of John Reed and relict of Martin Markley ;
there were born of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Dutton 5 chil-
dren,— Ettie, Daniel, Rebecca, Wm. and Charles ; the marriage of
Mary Reed to Martin Markley was blessed with 7 children : 3 are
living, — Sylvester, Marion and Martin. Mr. and Mrs. Dutton are
joint owners of 220 acres of land.
Hoses Button settled in Fulton Co. over 30 years ago ; he was
born in Maine in 1811; during his boyhood his parents emigrated
to Ohio, where he grew to manhood; in 1831 he was united in mar-
riage with Miss Rebecca Curless, daughter of Asher Curless, of
Ohio; of their 11 children 10 are living, — Elmira, who married
Clark Mote; Asa, who married Jane Browning; Daniel, who
married Mary Markley; Jane, who married John Thompson;
Henry, who married Charlotte Levengerer; John, who resides on
the old homestead unmarried ; Wm., who married Susan Levenge-
rer; Mary, who mirried James Radclitfe ; James A. and Randolph.
Mr. D. was finally laid at rest in the village cemetery, leaving a
widow, with a home on 100 acres of valuable land.
Ellsha Elliott, farmer, sec. 23; P. O., Summum ; is a native of
Fulton Co., where he was born in the year 1848; his father, Luke
Elliott, was born in Ohio, where he followed his trade of a shoe-
maker until his emigration to Fulton Co., where he settled some 35
years ago ; he proved a sterling actor in the growth and develop-
ment of the Co., and during the late war obtained a Lieutenant's
commission; he was united in marriage in this Co. to Miss Eveline
Burgess. In 1871 Elisha Elliott Avas united in marriage to ^liss
Sigourney L. Hickle, daughter of Aaron and Sarah Hiekle. They
have 4 children, 3 living: Elmer E., Ernest E. and Lucius L.
Cora E. died in infancy.
Francis M. Elliott farmer, sec. 9 ; P. O., Summum ; was born in
Fulton Co. in 1846; his father, Samuel Elliott, is a resident of
Schuyler Co. ; was born in the State of New York ; he removed from
there to Fulton Co., 111., ])r()l)ably in 1831, where he was united in
marriage to Mrs. Margaret Osborn. In 1868 he was united in mar-
riage to Mrs. Sarah E. Hughes, a daughter of Wm. Hughes. They
have 3 children, Leoni Van L., William S. and Julius O.
Jane Elliott, relict of Ellison Elliott, was born in New York
State in 1811, moved to Ohio in an early day, where she was mar-
ried to Ellison Elliot. 7 children born of this marriage, — Elisha,
Jasper, Isaac P., Wm. A., Geo. W., James B. and Chas. H. George,
the only one living, resides on the homestead. Mrs. Elliott's maiden
name was Vanderbilt. Three sons of Mrs. E. entered the service,
all of whom gave up their lives in the war for the Union.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 949
Geo. Emif/, deceased, was a native of Penn., where he fol-
lowed far mi no; ; he there married Miss ]\Iary Brillhard, by whom
he had 2 children, — Jesse and Isaac. Mrs. E. was twice married,
her first husband being Peter Wolf, of Penn., who there passed the
remiinder of his life; 3 children survive who were born of this
marriage. George Emig came to Fulton Co. about 25 years ago,
purchasing property in Woodland tp., consisting of 80 acres; he
became exceedingly prosperous; he died in 1865; Mrs. Emig is
still living, residing in Woodland tp. Jesse grew to manhood in
Fulton Co.; received a liberal education ; in 1874 he married Miss
Mary Mumraert, daughter of Jonas Mummert, deceased. There
are two children, INIarion and Sarah, surviving.
John FarwelL In our history of Woodhmd township and life
sketches of men who have made it we speak of Mr. F. He is a
native of New Hampshire, where he was born June 15, 1807; in
his 21st year he directed his footsteps to the State of Mass. As
early as 1830 he came to Ohio, In 1837 Mr. F. came by way of
the canal and Illinois river, and made his way to Illinois, landing at
Sharpe's Landing; during the falllie went to Bernadotte, remaining
two years; at the expiration of this time he moved to Woodland
tp. Mr. F. erected a cabin 12x14, and for 2 or 3 years he kept
bachelor's hall ; in the meantime he set about clearing away for a
home. In 1841 he was united in marriage to Miss Calista Curless,
a daughter of Asher Curless, by whom he had one child, \Vm. Mrs.
F. died in June, 1843. Nov., 1844 he united his fortunes to Mrs.
Susan Severns, who did not long survive. In Oct. 24, 1849, Mr.
F. was married to Mrs. Julia Blandin, a daughter of John Blandin.
5 children were born to them : 4 arc living, — Louisa, Alice, Gran-
ville and Hattie. Mr. F. is owner of nearly 1,000 acres of valuable
land.
John Fike, agriculturist, was a native of Indiana, where he was
born on the 27th of April, 1827 ; located in Fulton Co., in 1837 or '39,
left an orphan at an early age, he entered the employ of 11. McLaren,
remaining until he had attained his majority ; Oct. 27, 1850, he was.
united in marriage to Miss Eliza J. Onion, daughter of Joel and
Eleanor Onion ; enlisted in the 3d 111. Cav.,Co. H ; became Sergeant,
was honorably discharged and returned to his home in this Co. ; but
exposure in army life had proven too much for his naturally strong
constitution, and on the 23d of Dec, '62, he was laid at rest in Wood-
land township. He was the owner of a valuable farm of GO acres,
and to the care of his pioneer wife he left a family of 4 children, 3
of whom are living, — Wm. M., Mary E. and John, jr.
John Fitz was born in York county. Pa. ; he there married
Mary Ann Dubs, by whom he had 9 children, — Henry, John, Sam-
uel, Conrad, Matilda, Susan, Elizabeth and Rebecca. Mr. Fitz was
a farmer in Pa., where he owned farm jiroperty : 27 years ago he
came West, settling in Woodland township, where he purchased
nearly 500 acres of laud ; he removed to Iowa 3 years ago, where he
950 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
is the owner of 400 acres of valuable land. Conrad, who is a farmer
in this township, was born in Penn. in 1848, having spent his
boyhood and youth in this county; in 1874 he married Miss Susan
Shields, daugiiter of Nathan and ^lary Siiields, mentioned elsewhere,
and they have one child, Idallah, Mr. F. owns 160 acres in this tp. ;
has been School Director 13 years.
Samuel Fifz, farmer, sec. 8 ; P. O., Astoria. Among those who
have succeeded well in life we mention Samuel Fitz, who ranks
among the earliest residents of this township; he was born in York
county, Pa., Oct. 18, 1844. He was but 5 years of age when his
parents settled in Fulton county, sec. 17, Woodland township; he
followed farming principally, although for a short period of time he
became employed as clerk by E. & P. Ham(>r, merchants at Ver-
mont. Nov. 23, 1869, he was united in marriage to Miss Anna
Bogue, by whom he has one child, Farie. Mrs. F. died Dec. 24,
1876, and was laid at rest in the Dunkard cemetery. On the 9th of
January, 1879, Mr. Fitz united his fortunes to Miss Anna Hershey,
of Monmouth, Warren county. 111.
Nobles C. GnindsUiff, was born in Muskingum county, O., in
1836; became a stock-dealer, and for a oonsiderable time was pro-
prietor of a meat market at Nelsonville; while residing in Jackson
county, O., he was united in marriage to ]\Hss P. A. Akins, a
daughter of Samuel Akins, of Ohio, l)y whom he has 6 children, viz :
Celia J., Willie, Grant, Morley, Walter and Emma. Mr. G. was
quite extensively engaged as a stock-buyer and traded a great deal
in various States ; two years ago he settled in this township, where
he purchased the mill property formerly owned by Emily Mayhew;
since this date Mr. G. has transacted a very good business.
J. B. Gri.sh(un, farmer, sec. 29 ; P. O., Astoria ; was born in
Brown Co., O., in 1840; his father, Richard Grisham, was a native
of South Carolina, and born March 7, 1802; during the early settle-
ment of Ohio he moved to that State, where he followed farming,
and where he was united in marriage to Miss Laura Reynolds; they
.had 19 children; he died in 1879; Mrs. G. is still living and re-
sides in Kansas. The family moved from Ohio, settling in 1855 in
Woodland tp., on farm property. J. B. receivcfl a liberal education ;
in 1861 he was married to Elizabeth Wunderlich, a daughter of
Philip Wunderlich, a Virginian ; by her he had 8 children, 7 of
whom are living, — John, Edward, Toler, Win., Harry, Orley and
J. J. With the exception of a short residence in Kansas ISIr. G.
has been a permanent resident of this tp.
John Grove, farmer; P. O., Astoria ; the subject of this sketch
was born in Virginia in 1832; his father, Christopher Grove, was
also a native Virginian, a saddler and harness-maker by trade, and
married Mary Beard, by whom he had 8 children; John, the fourth
of these, grew to the age of 19 years in Va., when he made his way
West to Astoria tp. ; in this county he has since resided with
the exception of 6 years passed in McDonough Co.; in 1862 he
HISTORY OP FULTON COUNTY. 951
enlisted in Co. F, 103d 111. Inf., and was a participant in many of
the famous battles, honorably discharged, and returned to his old
home in Fulton Co., where, in 1858, Jan. 1, he was united in mar-
riage with Sarah M. Haffner, daughter of Jacob Haifner, who set-
tled in Fulton county 24 years ago. There were born of this mar-
riage 9 children, 8 of wh(mi are living, 5 girls and 3 boys, in this
tp. Mr. G. is a farmer, owning 80 acres of well-improved land.
J. W. Har/au, farmer, sec. 2; P. O., Summum; was born in
Fulton Co. in 1848; received a liberal education. In 1869 he was
united in marriage to Miss Nancy Thompson, by whom he has 3
children, — Edwin W., Viola B. and Jas. E. Mr. H. is the owner
of 160 acres. Mrs. H. is a native of Fulton Co., and is a daughter
of Anthony and Lucy Tiiompson, of Ohio.
Thomas Hagan, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 16; P. O., Sum-
mum; was born in Tenn. in 1822; his father, Robert Hagan, was
born in Kentucky, where he followed the occupation of a i'armer;
he there married Anna Barnet, who bore him 2 children, — John B.
and Thomas. Robert was twice married ; was among the first set-
tlers of Tenn., where he passed the remainder of his days on earth.
While Thomas was yet a lad his father died, and at the age of 10
he accompanied his step-mother to Missouri, where he lived 3 years;
then he came to Illinois, locating in this township, where he pass-
ed his youth at the home of Nicholas Fraley, one of the pioneers of
the tp. ; in 1836 Mr. H. married Ruth Hughes, a daughter of Tay-
lor Hughes; they had 8 children, 6 are living, — John W., Mary
C, Nancy J., James L., Marion L. and U. Grant. Mr. H. owns
240 acres of good land,
Solomon D. liumm settled in Fulton county in 1854, and after the
lapse of a quarter of a century he is the owner of over 500 acres of
valuable land and takes a leading position among the wealthy farm-
ers of this county. He was born in York county. Pa., Feb. 8, 1833;
worked as a carpenter, and in 1856, after his arrival in this county,
he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Wolf, daughter of Peter
Wolf, of Pennsylvania, by whom he has 10 children, — Rebecca,
Jacob H., Ellen N., Elizabeth, Sarah, Mary, Lucy, Anna, Jessie C.
and John W.
John Horner, deceased, was born in 1812; his parents were born
in Pennsylvania, where they followed farming; Mr. H. died, and
Mrs. H. moved to Ohio and thence to Fulton county, where she
died at an advanced age. John grew to manhood in Pennsylvania
where he was united in marriage to Miss Barbara Brillhard, by
whom he had 10 children : 9 are living, — Henry, Wm., Daniel,
Elizabeth, Maria, Sarah, Barbara, Hannah and Louisa; with the
exception of Maria, all the children reside in Illinois; in 1855 Mr.
H. came to Fulton county, where he purchased a quarter section of
land ; he became quite successful on his western farm in this town-
ship, where he died in 1871. Mrs. H., who is a native of Pennsyl-
vania, still survives. Daniel Horner, from whom this sketch is ob-
952 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
tfiined, was born in Pennsylvania in 1848; was but six years of age
when iiis parents landotl in Fulton county; April 27, 1870, he mar-
ried Miss Mary E. , who died soon afterward; Mr. H. has
gained considerable local fame as a writer and corresj)ondent.
Win. S. Hoppiuf/, farmer, sec. 6 ; P. O., Astoria. In obtaining
our biographical sketches many incidents come to hand. On the
farm of Mr. Hoi)ping is a large mound, one of the largest in this
county, and in conversation we learn that relics of an interesting
nature have been found ; is the youngest son of Gideon Hopping.
He married ^liss Sarah J. Sturges, of South Carolina; her father,
John Sturges, became known to fame as a Revolutionary soldTer and
was a living witness of the famous surrender at Yorktown. In 1823
Gideon Hopping and wife, each on horseback, made the western trip
to Illinois and stopped near Springfield. In 1836 Mr. H. moved to
Fulton Co., settling in Vermont township, and j)assed away over
a quarter of a century ago. Mrs. H., who is a sister of Dr. Daniel
B. Sturges, of South Bend, Ind., the well-known writer and minis-
ter of the Gospel, passed away but a few short weeks ago. She left
but 3 children, — Gideon J., Joseph and \Xm. S. AVm. S. was
married in 1801 to Miss Mary Cooper, a daughter of James Cooper,
by whom he hud 5 children, 4 are living: Sarah J., John W., Me-
lissa E., Melinda B. and Joseph H., deceased.
Marfin L. Horn, was born in Penn. in 1811 ; his father, Daniel
Horn, was a native of Washington Co., Penn. ; was a cabinet-maker
by occupation, following farming, however, to a considerable ex-
tent; he married Polly Simmons, of Penn., by whom he had 5 sons
and 4 daughters; Martin, the 4th son, grew to manhood in Penn.,
where he married Julia Ann Oiler, by whom he had 9 children :
8 are living. Mr. H. emigrated to Fulton county, where he has
172 acres of land; 9 years after his arrival Mrs. Horn died; one
year later Mr. H. married Mary J. Kelly, who survived her mar-
riao;e 6 vears ; in 1808 Mr. H. married Mrs. Martha Severns, relict
of Martin Severns, of Ohio. Mr. Horn now owns over 200 acres,
nearlv all tillable land.
James J.Horfon, farmer and stock-trader, sec. 10 ; P. O., Summum ;
was born in Coshocton Co., O., March (5, 1830; his father, Ezra
Horton, was born in the same county, and lived there for upwards of
43 years, and where he was united in marriage to Mrs. Eliza Honey,
by whom he luul 9 children. In 1809 Ezra Horton located in this
tp. ; he died May 22, 1803; Mrs. Horton survived her husband but
one year. James, who had attained his 21st year shortly after the
familv arrived in Fulton Co., has followed farming and stock-raising
from boyhood, and he is the owner of the homestead property;
March 29, 'o9, he married Mrs. Martha J. Horton, a daughter of
J. B. Horton, of Ohio, who now resides at Muscatine, Iowa; 10
children were born of this marriage; 8 are living, — Dora, Esther,
Willie, Sadie, Ella, Artie, Lydia and Matilda ; Ida L.,and James I.
deceased.
IIISTOKY OF FULTON COUNTY. 953
Levi Horfon, Justice of the Poaoo and farmer, is well known to
the farmers and business men of this S(>ction ; was born in the vear
1818; his father, David Horton, was a pensioner and soldier during
the year of 1812. He united his fortunes with Mrs. Margaret
Sapp. 6 ehildren blessed the union of David and Margaret Horton,
3 of whom now survive. Levi, the elder, married in Ohio Miss
Caroline Darling, who bore him 5 children ; 2 survive, David and
Jennie. The subject of this sketch settled in Fulton Co. in 1839,
and settled permanently in 1851 ; has been a successful farmer, and
has held the offices of Supervisor, Town Clerk, Road Commis-
sioner, etc.
T. J. Horton, farmer, see. 20; P.O., Astoria; is a native of Ohio,
born in 1844; grew to manhood in this county, where he has since
followed farming, and where he was united in marriage with INIiss
Louisa McDermott, by whom he has 2 children. Mrs. H. died
Feb., 1875, and in the following year Mr. H. married Susan Stoops,
a daughter of Michael Stoops, in Woodland tp. ; is the owner of
87 acres of land ; has been School Director, Road Commissioner,
etc.
Abel \V. Hughes, farmer; P. O., Astoria; was born in this Co.
in 1854; Dec. 13, 1877, married MissAddie Waggoner, a daughter
of George Waggoner, a native of Penn. ; they have 1 child.
B. Scott Hughes, farmer, sec. 6; P. O., xVstoria. Nearly all who
have the name Hughes in this part of the county are near relatives.
The subject of this sketch is a son of John David and Miner-
va J. Hughes, and married Miss Mary Bloomfield, daughter of
John Bloomfield, and their children are Ira, Oscar and Kolla. John
Hughes first married Betsy Cooper, by whom he had 7 children ;
by his second wife, Minerva J., he had G children.
Geo. W. Hughes is a native of Wayne Co., O., where he was
born Jan. 12, 1822; his father, Taylor Hughes, was a native of
Maryland; a soldier in the war of 1812; was elected Colonel of
State militia in 1840. He settled at Lewistown for a short time
when he directed his footsteps to AVoodland tp., where he passed the
remainder of life ; his wife still survives. Of the 10 children born
to them all are living, and 9 are residents of this township. Geo.
was the second son, who had attained his 2()th year when his par-
ents settled in Fulton Co.; in 1843 he was united in marriage to
Miss Susan Elliott, daughter of Elisha and Hannah Elliot; 11
children were born, 6 girls and 5 boys; 3 have died; those who sur-
vive are all residents of Fulton Co.
John D. Hughes, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 12; P. O., Sum-
mum; is a native of Harford Co., Md., born in 1819. His father,
Taylor Hughes, was also a native of Md., who moved to Ohio,
where he followed the occupation of cabinet-maker and builder; in
1817 he was married to Mary Demass, and they had 11 children.
In 1840 he emigrated to this tp., where in Feb., 1877, he died.
Mrs. H. still survives. In 1838 John married Elizabeth Cooper,
954 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
by whom he had 4 children, none of whom are living, Mrs. H.
died in 1P47, and in 184(S Mr. H. married Mrs. Minerva Meek,
widow of Richard Meek; tliey have 6 children.
Joshua Hughes, farmer, Avas born in Ohio in 1826; at the age of
14 he became a resident of Fulton Co., where with the exception
of 7 years spent in Kansas he has since resided: he was married in
Woodland tp. to Miss Zillah Kelly ; 9 children blessed this union, 7
living.
N. P. Hughes, farmer, sec. 6 ; P. O., Summum. The above
named gentleman was born in Holmes Co., O., in Sept., 1837, and
is the son of Taylor Hughes. AVhen the war broke out he enlisted
in the 85th Reg,. 111. Vol., Co. I, for 8 years' service; was in 13
battles, and the principal ones of the Rebellion, as Perry ville, Stone
River, Chickamauga, Kenesaw Mountain and others; wounded at
Atlanta. In 1855 he was united in marriage to Miss Dicy Prather,
by whom he has 10 children: Rose Ann, Rosette, Mary, Leonidas,
Lawrence, Viola B., Arpha, Louisa, Judson and Olive.
Wm. S. Hughes, farmer and stock-raiser; sec. 16; P. O., Sum-
mum ; is a native of Holmes Co., O., where he was born in 1824;
at the age of 16 he accompanied the "old folks" to Woodland tp. ;
in 1846 he was united in marriage to Miss Anna Anderson, a
daughter of James Anderson, of Kerton tp. Mr. Hughes' habits
of life are temperate; is quiet and unostentatious in his manner,
more of a listener than a conversationalist. Like all who bear the
name in this part of the county, Mr. H. is a staunch Republican.
There were born of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. Hughes, 4 chil-
dren, 3 of whom are living: Sarah E., who married F. M. Elliott;
Robert M., who married Lucinda J. McLaren, a daughter of John
McLaren ; Amanda resides on the homestead.
Ethcdrd Kessler, farmer, sec. 3; P. O., Astoria; for the past 10
years Mr. K. has been a resident of Woodland tp. ; he was born in
Pa., on the 16th of October, 1830; his father, Samuel Kessler, was
a native of Pa., where he married Miss Lydia P^mick. Edward
grew to manhood in Pa., where he was united in marriage to Miss
Lucinda Wolfrum, by whom he had 4 children. Dec. 6, 1865, Mrs.
Kessler died, and in 1867 he was united in marriage to Miss Polly
Strammel, by whom he had 6 children, 4 of whom are living in this
township.
John F. Kingcry, agriculturist, was born in Fulton Co. on the
old farm homestead of his parents, Wm. and Jane Kingery, in 1837 ;
among the rugged associations of pioneer life young Kingery spent
his boyhood. August, 1862, he enlisted in Co. H^ 85th lU. Inf.,
and partici|)ated in numerous skirmishes and the noted engagement,
at Perrvville. Auj;. 8, 1858. he was united in marriage to Mrs.
Catherine Smith, a daughter of Harrison Xewberry, and relict of
Geo. Smith. Of the marriage of Mr. and Mrs. K. there were born
6 children, — Lafayette, John W., Edwin F., Thos. J., Clayton and
Sadie.
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 955
Emanuel Leu., farmer, sec. 8 ; P. O., Summum. The gentleman
from whom this sketch is obtained is a native of Penn., where he
was born in the year 1826; his father, David Len, was also born in
Penn., where he followed the occupation of a shoemaker, and where
he was married to Miss Elizabeth Sennett. In 1853 Emanuel was
united in marriage to Mrs. Caroline Give, a daughter of Franklin
Give, by whom he has 10 children, — Emeline, Jane, Matilda,
Emanuel, Ida, Franklin, Catherine, John, Michael and Edmund.
On the 14th of February, 1866, Mr. L. settled in Fulton county.
Woodland tp.
John C. J/rn/cr.s, farmer, sec. 19; P. O., Astoria; was born in
Penn. Aug. 4, 1815 ; his father, Peter Mayers, was a farmer in
Penn., where he was united in marriage to ISliss Eve Brillhart, who
bore hira 12 children, John being the 8th, who married Barbara
Kisley, who bore him 5 children. Mrs. Mayers died in Penn. in
1845. By his second wife, Lydia Dressier, a native of Penn., he
had 2 children; she also died in Penn. in 1850, and Mr. M. united
his fortunes to Miss Mary \Yenz, by whom he has 3 children. Mr.
Mayers settled here in 1854, purchasing his present farm of 80
acres.
A. J. 3fcDermotf, farmer ; P. O., Astoria; was born in 1856 in
Fulton Co., ; in 1878 he married Mary Crable, a daughter of Joseph
Crable, who was a native of Penn., and moved to this State in an
early day. They have 1 child, Delia. Mr. McD. resides upon the
old farm homestead.
Robert McDermott, agriculturist, was born in Ireland ; while a boy
his father died, and his mother crossed the Atlantic for America,
settling in Ohio, where young Robert passed his youth and grew to
manhood; he settled in Woodland township, where, for two seasons,
he rented farm property ; one year from the date of his settlement
he married Miss Edith Griffith, a daughter of William Griffith, who
was born in Coshocton Co., Ohio. For several years ]\Ir. McD.
held the position of a Justice of the Peace. He died Jan. 16th,
1872, leaving a valuable estate of 240 acres. There were born of
the marriage 11 children, 4 of whom are living, — Franklin, who
married Mary J. Thompson ; Andrew J., who married Mary Ann
Crable; Laura, who married Warren Wharton; Robert, the
youngest, who resides on the old homestead.
Calvin McKinley was born in Bond county. 111., in 1829; his
father, John McKinley, was a native of Ohio; Calvin accomj)anied
his parents to Fulton county in a very early day and settled in
Woodland township, where he grew up amid pioneer associations ;
in 1847, he married Miss Mahala C. Kerran, a daughter of Benja-
min Kerran, by whom he has 9 children, — John, Nancy, Henry,
Chas., Joseph, Rebecca, Cordelia, Mahala and Freddie. Mr. McK.
is the owner of 150 acres of land.
Chridopher C. McLaren, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 4 ; P. O.,
Summum; was born in 1847 in this county ; 1871 he married Miss
956 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
Louisa Ck'arv, a daughter of Henry Cleary, deceased, a native of
Kentucky. They have 3 children, — Florence, Carl and Walter.
In addition to his farming operations Mr. McL. is also engaged as a
stock-dealer, in which he meets with good success. Has been School
Directer, etc.
Peter McLaren is a native of Perth, Scotland, where he was born
in 1807; Robert McLaren, his father, came to America in 1822;
settled in Woodland township in 1827; Peter, the eldest brother of
John and Robert McLaren, who reside in Astoria township, first
settled on Congress land, the farm now owned by Stephen Merrill;
in 1830 he sold this and purchased a farm of 160 acres where he
now resides; in 1835 Mr. McLaren married Lucinda Saflfern, by
whom he had 11 children; 5 are living. Mrs. McLaren died Nov.
14,1857; the following year Mr. McL. married Irilla Berry, of
Ohio, by whom he has two children, — Ellen and Sherman. Mr.
McLaren has participated in the development of this country from
its native wildness to its present high culture.
William McLaren, farmer and stock-raiser; many years have
come and gone since the advent of William McLaren in this county ;
over half a century ago four of the McLaren brothers crossed the
ocean from Scotland and settled in Fulton county, Illinois. Wra.
was born in Scotland in the year 1820. In July, 1841, he was
united in marriage to Miss Rachel Fike, a daughter of John and
Sally Fike, to whom 9 children were born, — Nancy, John N.,
Christopher C, Wm. R., Mary, Israel, Francis M., Caroline and
Belle. Mr. McL. first entered an 80-acre tract on which he erected
the usual rough, hewed-log cabin and settled down for hard work,
many acres of heavy timber yielding before his well directed eflbrt,
Mrs.' McLaren was born in Ohio ; of her parents, save the name,
but little is known as they died during the early years of Mrs. M.
John Fike was a native of Pennsylvania, where he was married to
Miss Sally Wilkie, by whom he had 11 children: but three are liv-
ing at the present writing.
W. R. McLaren, physician and surgeon, was born in Woodland
township, August 9, 1849, receiving his preliminary education in
the district school of Woodland tp. ; in 18G7 he proceeded to Lew-
istown where he entered a graded school; he next wended his way in
search of knowledge to Knox county, where he took a scientific
course, remaining 2 years; he then became a student with Drs.
Taylor and McCurdy, of Vermont, with whom he remained 2 years.
In'l875 he entered' the College of Physicians and Surgeons, Keo-
kuk, Iowa, graduating in 1877; he then' located at Bluff City, where
he secures a very fair i)ractice ; in 1877 he was united in marriage to
Miss Lydia Odell, of Rushville.
Edmund Miller, farmer; P. O., Astoria; was born in Pa., July,
1845. His lather, David Miller, was also a native of Pa. where he
now resides; he married Miss Margaret Wolfgang, by whom he
had 7 children. Edmund, the 5th, grew to manhood in Pa., where
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 957
he becarao employed as a farm hand; in 1868 he married Miss Lydia
Stramniel, a daughter of George Strammel, who was born in Pa., and
who owns 80 acres of hind in this township.; Mr. M. has 6 chil-
dren,— Mary, David, Lucy, George, Sarah and William.
H. C. Mote, M. D. For over a quarter of a century, Dr. Mote has
met with wonderful success as an oculist; many years ago his wife
was afflicted with a weakness in the eye, causing neuralgic pains
which ultimately caused partial blindness; for years the husband
had treatment from eminent physicians, all of whom failed utterly.
At last in despair he began the study of the human eye, its ailments
and proper treatment. In 1859 he was rejoiced at the discovery of
a medicine so mild as not to injure, yet so powerful as to accomplish
the purpose. Having restored the eyesight of his wife in an almost
marvelous manner during the autumn of 1859, he received his first
patient. This was a stubborn case. But in a short time the Doctor
had effected a cure. Since this period he has succeeded so itmark-
ably as an oculist that we deem it of local interest to state that he has
been successful in his treatment of the following well known parties:
J. C. Lutz, hardware merchant, of Astoria; Henry Lynn, farmer,
Schuyler county; Charles and Nancy Miner, of Adair, McDonough
county ; Lewis Zelly, merchant, Havana ; 'Squire Godby, of Peters-
burg," Menard county. 111.; G, W. Denton, same; James Matthews,
wife and daughter, P. O., Virginia, Cass county. 111. ; Mrs. AVheeler,
Jasper county, Mo. The Dr. was born in Darke county Ohio, in
1823, the son of Jeremiah and Elizal)eth (Carlock) M. He married
Sarah Gninn in 1848, and they have 6 children, one deceased.
Jonathan Newberry. In 1835 Joseph Newberry concluded to
better his fortunes by coming to 111.; he stopped at the little village
of Lewistown where he lived for 2 years. Jonathan was in his 19th
year when he landed in Fulton county, where he soon began teaching
and was among the noted pioneer "masters" of the county. Jan. 13,
1876, after a well-spent life of 40 years in the school-room, he re-
tired from scholastic duties; May 18, 1843, he married Cynthia A.
Snodgrass, by whom he has 3 chiklren : George W., Wm. and Eliza
J.; John J., deceased. Jonathan is a native of Ohio, was born July
15, 1817. His father, Joseph N., was born in New York, April 27,
1786. He married Sallie Worthington, who bore him 10 children.
Joel Onion, farmer; is a native of Kentucky, where he was born
May 21, 1804; his father, Wm. Onion, was a native of Maryland.
Joel was in his 6th year when his parents moved to Indiana. In
1836 Joel and his father directed their footsteps to Fulton county,
Woodland township. Joel had married in Indiana (in 1827), Mrs.
Helena Siiields, a daughter of Joseph and Martha Shields, by whom
he had 10 children : 7 are living at the present writing. Mr. O. not
long after his arrival, probably 1838, purchased a claim and moved
into an old log cabin ; the first winter he taught school, being the
second teacher who taught the pioneer scholars in this township; at
this time there was but one school building in Woodland township,
56
958 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
and one in the township of Astoria. Mr. O. subsoquontly turned
his attention to farniin;^; principally, althouf^h he proved an excellent
nieehanic, and built the first bridges at Otto and Sugar creek as well
as the first frame barn in the township.
James M. Otiio)), farmer, sec. 9; P. O., Summum ; is a native of
Fulton Co., where he was born in the year IS.']'); his father, Wm.
Onion, was born in Harrison Co., Ind., and followed farminp; and
teaching school, having taught the first school in Woodland tp.
He was united in marriage to Miss Jane Hagan of Tennessee, by
whom he had 4 children, of whom James was the oldest. AVm.
Onion settled in Fulton Co. during the autumn of 1834. James
passed his youth and grew to manhood in Fulton county, receiving
a liberal education. In Aug., 1861, he enlisted in Co. H, 3d 111.
Cav. ; entering the service as a j)rivate soldier he aro.se to the posi-
tion of 2d Lieut. He returned to Fulton county at the close of the
war, where he had married while on a furlough home, Mrs. Mary
E. Rounds -I daughter of Col. Taylor Hughes, and relict of Henry
Rounds. "W" ' give Mr. O.'s portrait in this volume.
Alunzo Pamer, farmer and stc '-rniser, sec. 5; P. O., Astoria.
Alonzo Palmer is a native of th< Old D )minion State; was born in
1839. He was in his fifteenth ye;.r when his parents concluded to
make Illinois their home. In Fulton Co. he grew to manhood, re-
ceiving a liberal education; in 1801 he was united in marriage to
Miss Nancy J. McLaren, a dauuhter of Wm. McLaren. They
have 7 children : Isidora, Rachel A., John W., Lillian, Ashley,
Charles and Nellie.
Abiier Perkins, agriculturist, is a native of Maine, where he was
born in the year 1810; his fither, Stephen P., was born in Maine,
where he married Miss Alice Store. In 1831 Abner directed his
footsteps to Yiroinia, and while living in Frcdricl<.sburg he united
his fortunes lo Mi.ss Asenath Merrill, a daughter of Benjamin Mer-
rill, of jSIaine, by whom he had 5 cliildren, 2 of whom are living:
Mehetabel and L J. Perkins. After 20 y(>ars he came to Astoria,
where then and in subseiiuent vears he tausrht school. Miss Me-
hetabel Perkins, who.se energetic and enterprising disposition is
scarcely equaled in Western annals, takes care of the home farm,
having complete control, and when the storms of winter are too
cold for many a strong man to venture forth, Mi.ss P. may always be
found hard at work, taking care of the stock or doing other farm
work with an energy that savors strongly of ])ioneer days when
women bore a prominent part in the growth and development of
the county. Miss P. has gained considerable local celebrity as a
prose and poetical writer.
J. G. Porter is a n .tive of the county of Tyrone, Ireland, where
he was born in 1812. His father, John G. Porter, was a mechanic
and for 32 years worked as a master builder for Bishop Porter, a
relative. He was marriul to Mary Hannah. Our subject came to
America at the age of 14, landed at Quebec and one year later went
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 959
to New York city and lived 15 years. In tliat State he married
Eliza Ann Guyan, who died in Biilfalo in 1845. Mr. P. became a
large contractor and builder. In 184G he came to Fulton Co. and
bought 480 acres ot" land. In 1847 he married Eliza A. Snodgrass,
by whom he had 10 children, 7 of whom are living, — 4 boys and 3
girls.
Reason Prather, farmer; P. O., Astoria; was born in Indiana in
1829; a little over a year from this date the parents of our subject,
Darius and Caroline Prather, sto])jied in Schuyler county one year,
and the following year located in Fulton county ; Reason received a
good education for that period ; before attaining his majority he was
united in marriage to Miss Rebecca, daughter of Cornelius O'Don-
nel, by whom he l.as had (5 children, — Margaret, Mary, Riley (dec),
Preston, Benton (dec), and Melinda. Mrs. Prather died in 1860,
and the following year Mr. Prather married Zilpha Parks, by whom
he has 6 children. After many years of industrious toil Mr. Prath-
ier s the owner of 320 acres of valuable land, and ranks among the
awelthier farmers of Woodland tp.
C/ias. P«/*Heo, agriculturist ; was born in Warren Co., O., near the
city of Lebanon, June IG, 1824; his father, Jeremiah Punneo, was
a wagon-maker by trade; was of French origin. In the early i)art
of his life he lived in New Jersey, but became a pioneer of Ohio,
locating at Cincinnati, when that place was small ; he was once of-
fered a lot near the present court-house for the running gears
of a wagon; he lived in Ohio nuuiy years; in 1837 he set-
tled in Woodland tp., where he became successful as a farmer; he
died in 1874. Mrs. Punneo, nee Jones, was a native of New Jer-
sey, and died when the subject of tiiis sketch was but 3 years of
age, near Lebanon, O. Mr. P. afterward married Miss Elizabeth
Voorhees, and they had 4 children ; of the first marriage were 6.
Charles, the youngest child l)orn of this nuirriage, was 13 years of
age when his jvarents landed in Fulton Co.; he married Miss Mary
Shields, daughter of Kinsey Shields; there were born to them 9
children. Mr. Punneo is the owner of 120 acres, all cleared through
his own industry.
James IF. L. Radclijf'c, farmer and stock-raiser, sec 26 ; P. O.,
Bluff City ; born in the District of Columbia in 1831 ; his father,
J. L. Radclitfe, while in the flush of early manhood, became drum-
mer in the war of 1812 ; was married in Maryland to Miss Mary
Howard, by whom he had 11 children; James, the second son,
moved with his family to Alton, 111., in 1834; at the age of 18 he
came to this tp., where he now resides and is the owner of 44 acres
of good land; in 1858 he was united in marriage to Miss Mary E.
Dutton, by whom he has 8 children, — Geo. W., John R., Eugene,
Horace, Oliver J., Julia, Salina and James W.
John Raicley, agriculturist. The sui)ject of this sketch was born
in Penn. on the 23d of July, 1807 ; his father, Rubert Rawley, was
a native of Delaware, but moved to Ya. in an early day, where he
960 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
was united in marriage to Miss Elizabeth Barghciser, by whom he
had 11 children; John, who was the eldest born of this marringe,
grew to manhood in Ya., where he was united in marringe to Miss
Barbara Simmers, by whom he has 8 children; from Ya. he moved
to Indiana in 1853 ; for nearly 3 years he resided in Indiana, and
then located in Henderson Co., 111., two years later settling in
Woodland tp., Fulton Co. In 1870 Mrs. R. was laid at rest in
Woodland tp.; and in 1873 Mr. Rawley united his fortunes to Miss
Katie Saulsbury, who died six months later; April, 1875, Mr. R.
married Miss Catherine Baker, by whom he has one child, Sarah.
Mr. Rawley ranks among the more substantial farmers and progres-
sive citizens of this township.
Thomas Beed, farmer, sec. 32 ; P. O., Astoria ; was born in Penn-
sylvania in 1817; his father, John M. Reed, was born in Beaver
Co., Pa., a farmer, who married Mary Hinds : they had 8 children ;
Thomas, the fifth, grew to manhood in Coshocton Co., O., where
the family afterward removed. In 1843 Mr. R. moved to Illinois
and first located in Schuyler Co., where he married ; his wife died
April 27, '77. Mr. Reed now owns 160 acres of land.
J. M. Roberi>ion, farmer, sec. 2U; P. O., Astoria; is a native of
Schuyler Co., 111., where he was born in 1842. His father, T. L.
Robertson, was born in Kentuckv, and in an earlv dav moved to
Schuyler Co. J. M. grew to manhood in Astoria, learning the
trade of a wagon-maker. In 1861 he was united in marriage to
Mrs. Labina Horton, a daughter of Wm. Horton, of Astoria. The
following year Mr. R. enlisted in Co. G,85th 111. Inf., and partici-
pated in many important battles. ^Ir. R. enlisted for service as a
2d Lieutenant, and was promoted ; at the battle of Kenesaw Mt.
he received a severe flesh wound- The marriage of Mr. and !Mj's.
Robertson was blessed with 9 childi'en, — Walter, Frank, Everett,
Geo,, Delia, Sarah, Oliver, Nellie and Thomas.
Joseph Rounds, farmer, sec. 1 ; P. O., Summum ; was born in
Brown Co., O., in 1815; he lived in Ohio many years, and while a
resident he was united in marriage to Miss Sarah Brook, by whom
he had 8 children : 7 are living. ^Ir. Rounds settled in Fulton Co.
25 years ago.
Jame^ Snlishurj/, farmer and stock-raiser, sec. 32 ; P. O., Astoria;
Thomas Salisbury located in Woodland t]i. in his 25th year. He
was united in marriage to Miss Mary J. Kline, of Vermillion, 111.;
of tiieir 9 children 7 are living, — Nancy, Amanda M., Caroline,
Martha J., Lavina, Robert and Levi. ]\Ir. Salisbury became the
owner of farm property and is now living within a short distance
of the place where he first settled, and has lived to see the county
grow from a dense wilderness to its present state of prosperty. He
strved in the late war.
Marcus Salisbury. Turning back in the flight of years to 1827,
an early date in pioneer history, we find Marcus Salisbury a resident
of this county ; he is a native of Indiana, where he was born in the
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 961
year 1818. His father, Thomas Salisbury, came to Woodland tp.
in 1827, where he entered land from the Government. Marcus
grew to man's estate here. He was married in his 24th year to
Miss Jane Kelly, by whom he had 8 children: 4 are living:
AV^ni., who married Mrs. Angelinc Stevens; Geo., who married Miss
Emma Hughes; Sarah J., who married Simeon Fuson ; Miranda,
who married W m. Robinson (deceased).
H7//ia//i 6'a/w6u/'(/, agriculturist. Thomas Salisbury, the father of
AVilliam, was among the earliest immigrants here ; he was a native of
Virginia and a farmer by occupation; married Miss Nancy Dyer, of
Kentucky, by whom he had 11 children; of these William was the
oldest son ; at 16 years of age his parents came to Illinois and set-
tled in Woodland township, where he grew to mature years. In
1842 he married Miss Rebecca Griffith, a daughter of Wm. Griffith,
of Coshocton county, O., by whom he had 6 children : 4 are living,
— Marion, Elizabeth (deceased), Jackson, Wm. and Edith. Mrs. S.
died in 1852, and in' 1857 Mr. S. married Rebecca A. Mason, by
whom he has 4 children, — Mary, Mason, May and Harry. Mr. S.
is the owner of some 300 acres of valuable land.
Daniel Severns was born in Virginia, moved to Ohio, where he
followed farming and married Miss Barbara Buckley, by whom he
had 13 children. In 1842 he came to Fulton county, settling in
Kerton township, wLerj he died. John, the youngest son living,
was born in Ohio in 1837, and has with little exception followed
agricultural pursuits through life thus far. In 1861 he married
Rebecca Beatty, daughter of Robt. and Fannie B. Four of the 6
children born to them are living. He owns a good farm in Kerton
township.
i)at?/f/ <S'.'i/('W.'?, deceased, was born in Kentucky, in 1805; in an
early day he moved to Indiana, where he followed different vocations,
as stone-mason, farmer and cooper; while residing in Indiana he
married Eliza Onion, by whom he had 10 children: 6 are living, —
Mary, who married Jacob Burgess and resides in this township;
Wm. M', who married Catherine Barnes and resides in Ipava ; C.
R., who married Mary C. Burgess and resides in Pleasant township;
Martha, who marric<l John Langston and resides at Summum ;
Eliza, who married Nelson Horton and resides in Iowa, and A. P.
Shields, wiu) m irried Miss Tamar Azi)ell, of Fulton county. Three
children blessed this union, — Lucius, Leoni and Clifton. Mr.
Shields has taught school during the winter season ; now devotes
his time principally to farming.
Eli Shields, deceased, was born in Fulton Co., Feb. 6th, 1837,
where he grew to manhood; on the 12th day of August, 1858, he
was united in marriage to Miss Eliza Jane Littlejohn. When the
war broke out he enlisted in Co. H, 85th 111. Vol. Inf , and pro-
moted Sergeant; served gallantly during the war and gave up his
life in the cause of his country at the battle of Kenesaw Mountain.
There were 2 children born of this marriage, Edward and Wm. H.
962 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Jesse V. Shichh, farm3r, P. O., Astoria; is a native of Harrison
Co., Intl., whore lie was horn in 1814; during the autumn of 1828
he accompanied his mother and two brothers to 111., locating in
Schuyler Co.; in 1829 they settled in Woodland tp., where Jesse is
now the only survivor of this once numerous family; Feb. 11, '36,
Mr. S. was united in marriage with Miss Rebecca Miner, of Indi-
ana, by whom Jie had 13 children, 8 of whom are living; their
names are: Mary Ann, Nathan, Emisia, Wm., Eliza, Susan, Ettie
and Lucy. Mr. S. owns 160 acres of land in this township.
John A. Shields, farmer; the above-named gentleman comes of a
numerous and respected family. Kinsey Shields, the father of our
subject, was one of those spirited pioneers whose every-day life was
full of interesting and important events. He settled in Fulton Co.
during the winter of the deep snow ; the following spring he moved
upon the property now owned by Martin Horn. He built the usual
log-cabin near the house now occupied by John Shelley; here he
settled down to the hard work of clearing. He was a kind-hearted
man, and* this may have had much to do with his non-success as a
man of wealth. He was a consistent Christian, and a member of
the United Baptist Church. He died in his 72d year, and was laid
to rest in the 16th cemetery. Mrs. Shields survived her huusband
many years, and was laid at rest during the present year. In 1860
John was united in marriage to Miss Jane Smith, by whom he has
2 children, — Eliza and Louis. Mrs. Shields died in 1873. In 1874
Mr. S. united his fortunes to INIiss Melvina Rounds. Sarah is their
only child. Mr. S. was born in this county in 1833.
Nathan Shields, deceased, was born in East Tennessee, June 8,
1801 ; he was but a child when his parents removed to Harrison Co.,
Ind., where he grew to the mature years of vigorous manhood ;
Aug. 6, 1827, he married Polly Onion, by whom he had 4 children, —
Sarah, Wm., Jane and Ellen.' Having learned the trade of a wheel-
wright, Mr. S. for some years followed his calling in Indiana ; in
1836 he removed to this county ; prior to his emigration his wife had
died; shortly after his arrival he purchased a iarm of several hun-
dred acres "in this township; March 5, 1835, he married Mary
Kingerv, daughter of Tobias Kingery, who came from Germany ;
8 children were born of this marriage: 6 are living, — Sally, who
resides on the homestead; Henry, who married Mis*^ Tabitha Wel-
don ; Martin, who married Mary Van Meter; Ellis, who married
Hannah M. Hughes; John J., "who married Ariel Hughes; and
Susan, who married Conrad Fitz; Ely, a soldier, was killed during
the late war at Kenesaw Mountain; Nancy, deceased, had married
Henrv Rloomfield, a brother of Gen. Blooinfield, of Rloomington ;
on 0"ct. 10, 1866, Mr. Shields died, leaving a valuable estate of
over 200 acres.
Richard Shores, agriculturist, was born in Coshocton Co., O., in
1823; his father, James, was Ixirn near the city of Baltimore; he
learned the trade of a shoemaker in his youth and followed this call-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 963
ing for a number of years; for a period taught scliool, and for 13
years was a Justice of tlie Peace, and in the war of 1812 he took
an active p:irt. lie c;inie to Woodland tp. in 1S51. He r(sid(d here
until the (hiy of his decease, which occurred shortly alter the close
of the Rebellion. His remains now lie at rest in ^^'oodhlnd tp.
Mrs. S. died shortly before her husband. l\ichard, a patron of this
book, was married in Ilobiies Co., O., to Miss Agnes Newell, a
daughter of Clias. and Nancy Newell, by whom he had 9 children,
4 are living: Eliza J., born Jan. 9, l<So8; John H., born Sept. 8,
1860; Arminthi, born April 2(), 186'3; Geo. .\V., born Jan. 31, '67.
Mr. S. is the owner of 75 acres of valuable land, having disposed
of a p >rti )n of his prop2rty. Politics are Republican generally,
rather on the indejiendent order.
E. II. >) ait'i, fir.n_'r an 1 au'tioncer. Was born in York Co.,
Co., Pa., Jan. 14, 1(S41. His fithcr, an English sailor, was twi(;e
married; his first wife was a Boston lady, and they had 4 children;
his second m irriage was to Miss Anna Mary Havis, by whom he
had 4 chihhv-n. E. H., the eld;,'st of the ehihlren, received a liberal
.education: taught school two years; followed the trade of a l)utch-
er. Whilj a i-esident of P.i., in 1861, he married Miss P21izd)eth
Kecney, a daughter of Michael Keeney, and they had 9 children,
7 of whom are living, — Wm. H., Mary A., Johanna, Syvilia, Mary
J., Ell I and Bjujamin E. As an auctioneer Mr. S. has had re-
m irk ible success. He settled in Woodland tp, 11 years ago, and
has been Assessor, etc.
John G. Siiith, agriculturist, was born in Coshocton Co., O.,
June lo, 1822. His father, fJamos Smith, was born in Prince Wil-
liam Co., in the Old Dominion, where he followed farming, and
niirri.'d Miss Elizibeth, daughter of Wm Dawson, by whom he
had () cliildren, John, the eldest. In 1839 James Smith, with his
family, settled in Kcrtiui township, where he shortly afterward en-
tered 16J acres. Mr. Siuitli was in the woods one day when a
guig of doer were running towards him, and he concealed himself
in a brush-heap; the deer came rushing on, and one deer, as he was
leaping over the brush-heap, was caught by Mr. Smith, who held
and slew the animal without weapons. Mr. tiames Smith died in
1811, an 1 WIS buried in Kertoii tp., where also the remains of his
wife Ai'si burieil. Jo!in was in his 18th year when his parents came
to Eulton Co. June 1"), 1X49, he married Miss Amanda
Hiighjs, a duightn* of Tiylor IIiij;!ies, by whom In has 8 children,
Jame< T., Wm. J., Mary S., Ariel E., Zilla, John A., Emma L. and
Bjrtha. Mr. S. is the own(>r of 136 acres of valuable land in this
tp. ; has been Constable and School Trustee.
Eaamid Spanr/fcr, fu'iner, sec. 9 ; P. O., Summum ; many of
of those who have l)e((ime prospc nais in this (cunty are nr.tives of
Pa., and among this enterprising class of citizens Emanuel Spang-
ler must not be overlooked. He was born in Adams Co., Pa., in
the year 1817. His father, Daniel Spangler, was also a native of
J)64 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Pa. In an early day he moved to Maryland, where he was united
in marriage to Miss Eliz i Matthias, by whom he had 9 children.
In 1857 Mr. S. moved with his family to Illinois and settled in
Pleasant tp., Fulton Co. While residing here Mrs. S. died, July 3,
1866. Mr. S. was united in marriage by the Rev. Geo. Weber to
Mrs. Barbara Horner, bv whom he lias 3 children.
Wm. Springa, farmer, sec. 14; P. O., Astoria; was born in the
State of Ohio, October, 1843, 3d child of John and Hannah Springs;
grew to manhood in Ohio. Enlisted in Co. C, 67th Ohio Inf., and
participated in several engagements, and was seriously wounded
before Richmond. In 1868 he settled in Fulton Co., 111., where,
on the 31st of December, 1868, he was united in marriage to Miss
Margaret Kelley, a daughter of Wm. Kelley, by whom he has 5
children.
Geo. W. Stevens, hrxner and stock-raiser, sec. 22; P. O., Sum-
mum; was born in Fulton Co. in 1844. His father, James Stevens,
was born in Kentucky, where he married Margaret Peck, by whom
he had 11 children. George, the 7th child, grew up in ihis county.
In 1870 he went to Oregon, where he became the owner of 160#
acres of good land, and where until recently he has been exten-
sively engaged in sheep-raising; he also owns a valuable farm in
this tp. In '79 Mr. Stevens married Miss Ellen Pemleton, a sister
of Judge Pemleton, of Rnshville. James Stevens died leaving
some 300 acres of valuable land, and his family well provided for.
Mrs. Stevens survived her husband about two years.
John R. Stevens, ag"iculturist, was born in Coshocton Co., O., in
1825. His father, Matthew Stevens, was born in Pa., where he fol-
lowed the occupation of tanner and farmer. Married Mary Beal,
by whom he had 9 children. John R., the 7th child, grew up in
the Buckeye State, where he received a liberal education. In 1856
Mr. Stevens located in Woodland tp., where he purchased 91 acres
of land. During the autum of '63 he enlisted in the war, and was
honorably discharged at the close, returning to his old home in
this tp., where he has since resided. Their children are: Francis
M., Jas., John M., Mary, Allen, Wm. R. (deceased), Aaron and
Viola J.
A. \V. Sfeve7}Son is engaged in agricultural pursuits upon sec. 14.
P. O., Astoria.
Solomon Still, deceased, was born in Ohio in 1831, where he mar-
ried Maria Holt, who bore him 10 children. She died, and he mar-
ried Mrs. Eliza J. (Littlejohn), relict of Eli Shields. She was born
in this county in 1840. Mr. S. was killed in battle at Kenesaw
Mountain.
Adroii Thomas, agriculturist, was born in Ohio, Feb. 22, 1828.
His father, James Thomas, was a native of New Jersey ; his mother
Susannah Thomas, was also born in New Jersey, and had 7 child-
ren : 6 of whom are livinir. Jas. Thomas was 21 vears of age when
he located in Ohio, where he followed farming until his removal to
HISTORY OP FULTON COUNTY. 965
Fulton Co. in 1850. Aaron mirried, in Oliio, Miss.Martha B. Leon-
ard, a daughter of Aaron and Rhoda Leonard, of Ohio. There were
born of this marriage 10 cliildren, 6 of whom are living, — Darwin,
Albert P., Mary J., Susan K., Aaron, Jas. E. In Aug., 1862,
Mr. Thomas enlisted in Co. G, 85tii 111. Inf. Participated in the
noted battle of Perryville ; honorably discharged. When the war
closed he returned to his old home in Fulton Co., where he has
since resided, owning now 160 acres of land.
Anthony Thompson, deceased, who settled in Fulton coutity, in
1843, and who succeeded well in life through well directed and ener-
getic effort, was born in Coshocton county, O., Aug. 13, 1813.
His parents, Samuel and Elizabeth Thompson, died during his
childhood. On settling in Fulton county he purchased some 600
acres of land in Woodland township. On the fifth of May, 1844,
he was united in marriage to Miss Lucy Shields, a daughter of Mc-
Kenzie Shields, who moved from Harrison county, Indiana, to
Fulton county over a half century ago. During the year 1844 Mr.
Thompson moved into a log-cabin school-house; this was a novelty
in itself built of rough logs. In one corner w'as a huge fire-place,
capable of holding a log 6 feet long. Puncheons served for a floor,
etc. For 5 years Mr. T. lived in the old school-house, when he
built a hewed-log cabin. Mr. T. ])rospered raj^dly and at his death,
which occurred Aug. 5, 1870, he had accumulated a well improved
farm of 360 acres. The survivors of this familv are Marv, who
married Enoch Thompson; Benjamin married Rachel McNeil;
Nancy married John W. Hagar, and Sarah, who married Wm. H.
Smith, and Jane, who married Harvey Shelly, and Martha, who
resides on the old homestead.
Jolm Thompson, farmer, P. O., Astoria ; he was born in Maryland
Aug. 26, 1802 ; his father, Samuel Thompson, was born in New
Jersey, from whence he removed to Maryland, where he was united
in mirriage to Miss Elizabeth Asher; they had 9 children. John,
the eldest son, grew to manhood in Coshocton county, Ohio, where
he married Betsy Leviston, by whom he had two children, — Samuel
and Wm. Two years after the decease of his first wife, which oc-
curred in 1837, Mr. T. married Nancy Markley, of Ohio, by whom
he had one child, — Benjamin. Scarcely had a year gone by when
this lady also died, and in 1840 Mr. Thom[)son married Keziah
Herell, by whom he has 9 children. Mr. T. emigrated to Fulton
county about 1842. He is now the owner of 124 acres of land.
T.J. Thompson, farmer; P. O., Astoria ; was born in Schuyler
county. 111., in 1846; received a good common-school education;
his father, Wakeman Thomjison, resides in Schuyler county, where
he has been a resident for 40 years, living in afflcnt circumstances;
he is a native of Ohio, where he married Elizabeth Hulton. Thomas
was the sou born of the first marriage. Mr. T. alter the decease of
his second wife married ^[ahala McDaniel, in April, 1870. Thomas
married Elizabeth Mote, daughter of H. C. Mote, by whom he has
966 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
2 children, — Belle and Allie. ]\Ir. Tliompson is the owner of 200
acres of land.
Win. Thompson, SLgricuhin'ist; was born in McDonough county,
111., in 18-13; while quite .small his parents, Wakeman and Eliza-
beth Thompson, located in Schuyler county, where he received a
liberal education from his earliest years. Mr. Thorn j)Son has fol-
lowed farming, trading, displaying the usual Yankee ingenuity and
shrewdness; born amid pioneer surroundings, his life has not been
marked by any stirring events. While a ret^ident of Schuyler Mr. T.
held several offices of local note as Constable and Dej)uty Sheriff.
In 1807 Mr. Thompson was uniti'd in marriage, in Fulton county,
to Mary Wilson, daughter of Charles Wilson, of Ohio, who died
many years ago, leaving 1 child, Corda, born in Fulton county.
Moses Van Sickle, i'avmer, sec. 6; P. O., Astoria; was born in
Venango county Pa. in 1<SU(J; his father, Al)raluim Van Sickle,
settled in Pa., in an early day, where he married Miss Mary Jewel,
by whom he had 4 children, — John, Moses, Edith and Nellie;
he moved to Hamilton county, Ohio, in an early day, where our
subject resided up to his 3Uth year; he married Maria Marshall, and
they have 0 children, — Abraham, Mary Ann, J. M., Andrew and
Margaret. In \Ho\) Mr. V. came to Fulton county, horseback,
settling in Woodl ind township, where he bought 200 acres of land.
Is in comfortable circumstances.
George I ra^r/o^e/-, deceased, settled in Fulton county, in 1865;
was born in Adams county, Pa., in 1823; followed farming; mar-
ried Miss Maria Little, daughter of John and Elizabeth Little.
When the war broke out George Waggoner enlisted in Co, B, 101st
Pa. Veteran Volunteers, served i) montl)s, was honorably discharged ;
came to Woodland, where he bought 40 acres; sub.sequently he pur-
chased the present homestead property, consisting of 120 acres of
well improved land; in 1875 he died, leaving his wife and 10
children, — John A., who was a soldier in the late war, Geo. R., also
a soldier, Wm. J., Margaret E., Mary C, Henry F., Jane A., Sarah
A., Ida J. and Ellen F.
L. L. 11 a/>.v/!c/t/, physician and surgeon, Summum ; was born at
King6ville, Ashtabula Co., Ohio, Sept. 5, 1835; educated at Kings-
ville Academy; he became employetl in 1856 as clerk in a drug
store, having had commenced medical study in 1855; in 1854 he
shij)ped before the mast, rapidly gaining a knowledge of nautical
life; he arose to the position of "id mate; in 1851) he entered the
office of Dr. Andrew Merrimau, remaining during the summer ; in
autumn he made his way to Illinois, locating in Woodland tp., where
he again began his studies with Dr. Har})er, of Bath; in ISGI he
came to Summum and resumed his studies with Dr. J. H. Breeden ;
before the close uf the year he took up his residence at Bath, Mason
Co.; resumed study with that .-^killlul |)raetitioner, Dr. Fullerton;
during the spring of 1862 he returned to Summum, entering into
partnership with Dr. Breeden, remaining until lti63; the win-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 967
ter of that year and the following he spent at Rush Medical College,
Chicago, where his time was profitably em})loyed. After his return
from Chicago to Summum he entered upon his life work as a physi-
cian. Oct. 16, 1861, he married Dorothea Guest, and they have
3 children.
Lindsay Ward, farmer and blacksmith, was born in N. C. Sept.
25, 1818; his lather, Ely Ward, was also born in N. C, where he
followed farming and passed the remainder of his days; he married
Nancy Hayworth, by whom he had 5 children ; the only ones now
living in this State besides the subject of this sketch, are Ruhania
and Jacob T. Lindsay Ward married in North Carolina Miss
Meca Cecil, by whom he had 2 children, — Epirva J. and Mary;
in 1846 Mr. W. came to 111. ; in 1863 Mr. W. moved to Astoria tp.,
the following spring locating in Woodland, where he purchased his
present farm of 94 acres; in 1856 he married Priscilla Ludluni,and
their children are Ilattie C, Ulysses G., Alfred E. and Gertrude.
Samuel Weese, agriculturist, is a native of 'East Tenn., Knox Co.,
whore he was born Feb. 16, '14, of Dutch descent. His lather,
John Weese, was born in Virginia. Married Susan Mamuck ; 3
sons and 6 daughters blessed this union, of whom Samuel was the
3d child. John Weese was a soldier in the war of 1812, serving
through the whole campaij. n. Samuel spent his boyhood in Ten-
nessee. Feb. 18, 1834, he married Rebecca Weese, a daughter of
John Weese, who was born in England, and whose wife, Susan,
nee Spencer, was born in Germany. In 1836 Mr. W. with his
fatnily came to Indiana, locating in Parke Co. At the end of 3
years they came to \\'oo(lland tj). About 5 years afterward Mr.
W. ]>urcliased 160 acres of land ; is now the owner of 220 acres.
JR. G. Zimmerman, firmer. This gentleman is a native of Knox
Co., O., where he was born Feb. 22, 1839. His father, David
Zimmerman, was born in Knox Co., where he followed the career
of a merchant. While a resident of Oliio he was united in mar-
riage to Miss Rebecca Giffbn, by whom he had 9 children : 8 arc
living, — Robert, the oldest son, was in his 19th year when his
parents located in Fulton county. A\'hen the war broke out he
enlisted in Co. H, 3d 111. Cav., for 3 years, proceeding to the front
as a non-commi.sf«ioned officer; through meritorious conduct, before
the close of the war, he was promoted to the position of a 2d Lieut.
In 1863 Mr. Z. was united in marriage to Lucinda Robertson, who
died in 1865. In 1870 he was married to Miss Almira Bennett.
Louis:i, Barton and an infant are their children.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following is a list of the township officials serving since the
organization of the township, together with the years of serving:
968 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
SUPERVISORS.
N. Ventch 1850 G.V.Hopkins 1861
Luke p:iliott 1851-52 RolxTt MrDeriiiott 18H2
, A. llowarJ 1H53 Levi Ilnrton ]8()4-69
vi Isaac Linley 1854 J. H. Lalicker 1870
Joel Onion 1855 W. Stcpliens 1871-72
G.V.Hopkins.... 1856 Joel Onion 1878-74
J. B. Horton 1857 G. W. Unfiles 1875
G. V. Hopkins 1858-59 Lnke Elliott 1876
J. B. Morton 1860 K. G. Ziiumerman 1877-79
TOWN CLERKS.
Amaziah Howard 1850-52 O. W. Vandever 1863-64
JamesCooper 1853 F. Laliiker 1865
Joel Onion 1854 J. H. Liilicker 1866-69
J. O. Smith 1855 L. S. Bioonifiel.i 1870
O. W. Van.lever 1856-58 R. G. Zimmerman 1871-72
JamesCooper 1859-60 T. S.Camp 1873
Levi Horton 1861 S. D. Stoner 1874
E W. Bennett 1862 L L. Camp 1875-79
ASSESSORS.
Stephen Merrill 1850 R. G. Zimrnerman 1867
Kinzie Shiel.ls 1851 Reuben Rawley 1868
John Farwell 1852-55 L L. Camp 18()9
John Sclunk 1856 Jaiol) Palmer 1870
^Vm. Munson 1857-59 Reuhen Rawlev 1871
John S.henk 1860 L. Elliott 1872
Wm. Munson 1861 I.L.Camp 1873
S. D. Hamra 1862 J. H. Lalicker 1874
Wm. Stephens 1863 J.O.Smith 1875
"\Vm. .Munson 1864 J. M. Robertson 1876-79
Wm. Stephens 1865-66
COLLECTORS.
Simeon Veatch 1850-52 W^m. Horton 1865
J. S. Gasaway 18.)3 Reuben Rawley 1866-67
Jonathan Newberrv 1854 Wm. Stephens 18(i8-69
James Cooper ' 185.V57 I. L. Camp 1870
Samuel Lovell 1858 James Severns 1871
O. W. Vandever 1859 A. J. Horton 1872-73
William .Munson 1860 A. P. Siiields 1874
William Horton 1861-62 Thomas Sliores 1875-76
S. D Horner l.S()3 Samuel Fitz 1877
Levi Cooper 1864 Jonas Heltzel 1878-79
YOUNG HICKORY TOWNSHIP.
This township was named by the people at the first regular town-
ship election in 1850, and in honor of General Jackson. It was
first named " Hickory," but there being another township by that
name in the State it was changed to its present name. Although a
small township, Young Hickory has a very interesting history.
Upon the southeast quarter of section 2H, in the valley of Big
Coal creek and near its confluence with Spoon river, owned by
Nathaniel -Aylsworth, stands a mound in the shape of a frustum of
a cone. Around this hundreds of bullets have been picked up.
Some of these ancient missiles are exactly like the minie and Spring-
field balls of to-day. There is also another kind, which are pointed
at one end and flat at the other. This, no doubt, was the location
of one of the chain of forts erected by the French from Lake
Michigan to the Gulf of Mexico, as it is on a direct line from old
Fort Clark, now Peoria, to Fort Madison, on the Mississippi
river, both of which were French forts and constituted a part of
this great chain of defence. Sixty years ago the Pottawatomie In-
dians lived on this same section, and U])on the southeast quarter
buried their dead. Mr. Aylsworth found the skeleton of an Indian
in the trunk of a large white-oak tree, which he cut down several
years ago. Another was found in the trunk of an elm. Peter
Beer and James Kline exhumed an Indian skeleton here, which had
buried with it jewelry, silver coin, a gun and a British General's
golden epaulets. Here, also, ujwn section 28, are the once famous
trading-house springs, the largest being at the head of Goose Lake,
on Spoon river. A part of the remains of this old Indian trading-
house was to be seen only a few years ago mouldering away by the
spring, while the latter flowed ou as fresh and gayly as it did the
day the house was i)uilt.
It is claimed by some that Laban Reynolds was the first settler,
and by others John Beer is accorded tiiat honor. It is not positive-
ly known when the former settled here, but the latter located upon
the southeast quarter of section 28 in 1829. Thomas Hummell
came during the same year. Robert Combs and Henry Alms set-
tled here in 1835, and David Cowman and Ludwick Kline and
others came the following year. Robert Combs and the widow of
Henry Alms are all still living here, each of them at the ripe old
age of eighty-three. Mr. Alms fought in the war of 1812, and his
father served in the Revolution under Washington.
970 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
The first school-house in the township was upon section 36 in
1835, and the first teacher was Mr. Barnes. There is no regularly
surveyed town in Young Hickory, yet Midway is a little village of
about forty inhabitants, and is situated upon sections 2 and 11. It
contains a store, blacksmith-shop and pdsttjffice. London Mills is
also another ])ostotiice in this township. It is located upon the
northwest quarter of section 3. In it are two stores and a black-
smith-shop.
There are seven school-1 oases and three churches in the township.
The Christians (Xew Lights) had an organization here at one time,
but some of the members have moved away, and some have died,
until the congregation has grown so small that regular services are
no longer held. The first death in the township was that of Joseph
Smith.
Waterspout. — In 1868, upon the farm of AVm. Taylor, occurred
a wonderful phenomenon. On passing his large spring near the old
trading-house spring he observed that a great flood had . swept the
vegetation and logs down the hill and along the course of the spring.
On tracing it up the hill he found the place at which it struck the
ground. It washed out a great hole like that of a cellar. In 1874
the same thing recurred, and in the very same spot, which is pre-
cisely over the spring. Mr. T. also states that almost every tree
upon the hill in the vicinity of the spring has been struck with
lightning.
Amaruf/ia. — Near the center of the township is the spot where
in early days some of the settlers would congregate for sport, such
as horse-racing, shooting matches, prize fights, etc. Some of them
would take a little too much bourbon, and appeared very ridiculous,
to sav the least, which on one occcasion brought Ibrth the following
remirk from one of the old settlers: "They look more like Amarii-
gians than anything else." The people took up the name and chris-
tened the place Amarugia, by which that vicinity is known even to
this day, and the time was when all persons living in Young Hick-
ory were known as Amarugians for twenty to thirty miles around.
CHURCHES.
Midwaii Episcopal Methodist Church. Organized in '64 under the
name of Christian L^nion. In 1866 it adopted the name. Episcopal
Methodist. Some call it the Southern Methodist, which, however,
is wrong. It is true there was an agreement between the M. E.
Church, South, and the Christian Union of Illinois in convention
assembled in 1866, to adopt the name Episcopal Methodist and
become one Church, providing the communicants of the respective
Churches should ratify such agreement. This was done by the lat-
ter unanimously, but the former refused to do it. The church edi-
fice was erected in 1868. Present membership 37 ; Pastor, Rev. J.
W. Jones.
Mount Pleasant Methodist Episcopal Church of Midway was or-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 971
ganizcd about tlie year 183G, with 12 members. A building was
er>3cted in 1851. A portion of the members disconnected tliemselves
from tlie Church during tlie war, and finally became the Episcoj)al
Methodist Church. The old house was sold and a new edifice erect-
ed in 1869. Rev. Mr. Brink, Pastor.
Lynn Chapel United Brethren Church was organized in 1856 by
Martin Philllppi, with only three members, viz: Mr, and Mrs.
Phillipi and Isaac Fry. The present membership is 25. Services
are held every alternate Sunday by Rev. N. S. Norton, Pastor.
The church structure was erected in 1872.
BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCHES.
Nathaniel Ayhworth is a native of Seneca county, N. Y., where
he was born March 20, 1820. He is the son of Daniel and Anna
(Hopkins) Aylsworth. In the year 1835, he went to Ohio and en-
gag;ed as boatman on the Ohio canal, and in 18;3() was emjjloyed on
a Government steamer, and the same year voted for Martin Van
Buren, being but 16 years old; came to Fulton county in 1837, and
slept in the only house that was then In Canton ; taught school 4
years. He had the cholera during the ]irevalence of that plague in
1849, and was alone in his store in Ellisville, but cured himself.
He was married Dec. 18, 1854, to Mary Hatfield, whose mother is
living with them at the age of 81 years. They have had 5 children,
4 of whom are living, — David, Austin, Lydia A. and May. Mr.
A. is au engineer by trade; owns and operates a saw-mill on Big
Coal creek ; also a farmer.
R. W. Combs was born in Greenbrier county, Va., Nov. 22,1796;
came to Fulton county, in 1835; in younger days he worked at the
wagon-maker's trade, but has generally followed flirming; owns
395 acres of land; lives on sec. 1 ; P. ()., Midway; was Justice of
the Peace 16 years, has been School Director and Assessor; mar-
rie(J Martha Parker June 4, 1818; has had 6 boys and 4 girls, of
whom 3 are dead and the rest married.
3Iorrison Darland was born Nov. 8, 1812, in Preble county, O.,
son of Isaac and Jane Darland; came to this county in 1835, is a
successful farmer and has 369 acres of land; resides on sec. 13; P.
O., Fairview; has been School Director and Road Commissioner;
in 1837 he married Ann Shreves, and they had 3 boys and 1 girl:
two living. In 1855 he married Jane Rist, and tliey have 2 boys
and 2 girls, — the boys living. Mr. D. first settled on the land where
Fairview now stands.
Hardji A. Normll was born Sejit. 29, 1831, in N. C. ; son of James
and Mahala Norvill ; was brought to Fulton county when 4 or 5
years old; is a farmer on 80 acres of sec. 9; has been School Direc-
tor, Commissioner of Highways, Constable and Pathmaster; has 2
sons and 1 daughter living. P. O., London Mills.
972 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
3L
Pa
\fi's. Caroline {Swartz) PhUUppi was born in Westmoreland Co.,
, June 12, 1827; received a common-school education, and was
married October 15, '46 to Martin Phillijipi, who brought his
family to Fulton Co. in 1855. They have had 10 children, 9 of
whom are living and all, except 3 youngest, members of the U. B.
Church. Emma and Amanda are teaching school; three are mar-
ried, and Wm. remains at home, runs and takes care of the farm.
Mr. Phillippi departed this life Jan. 20, '73. Mr. P. filled the
offices of Class-Leader, Steward and S. S. Superintendent. Mrs. P.
is a sister of Esquire Swartz, of Fairview. P. O., Midway.
Joseph Prosser was born Oct. 7, 1825, in Ohio, son of Joseph and
Eliza Prosser; came to this county in 1840; is a farmer on sec. 10,
in good circumstances; has 169 acres of land; was Corporal in Co.
B, 103(1 111. Inf ; married Betsey E. Xorvill in 1845; has had 5
sons and 5 daughters; one boy and three girls have died. P. O.,
Midway.
Jacob W. Rose, son of Isaac Rose, of Deerfield tp., was born in
Somerset Co., Ohio, April 1, 1832. His parents came to Fulton Co.
in '38. He is Justice of the Peace for Young Hickory tp. He
celebrated Washington's birthdav in 1855 bv marrving Willmina
Hageman, who has borne him 3 children ; of these but one (John)
is living. Thev have with them a grandchild, whose mother died
when it was but a week old. Mr. R. is a farmer; his saw-mill
burned down in June, 1878.
Lewis Schufer was born in Germany, June 16, 1825, son to Jacob
and Elizabeth; came to America in 1833 and to Fulton Co. in
1848 ; never went to school ; learned the tailor's trade, clerked some,
and taught school awhile; has followed farming since 1852; has 67
acres; is on sec. 23; P. O., Ellisville; served in most of the town-
ship offices; Sept. 1, 1853, married Susan Rist ; has 2 boys and 1
girl, — Mary E., born Aug. 7, 1854; Franklin P., June 7, 1858, and
Webster Lee, Julv 18, 1866.
G. \V. Shreves 'was born in Bedford Co., Pa., Feb. 13, 1831, son
of Samuel and Abigail (Cook); came to the county in 1854; js a
prosperous farmer on sec. 12, owning 180 acres; has been School
Director and Road Commissioner; in 1854 he married Isabel An-
derson, and they had 2 boys and 2 girls; 2d wife, Caroline Suod-
grass, whom he married in 1866. P. O., Midway.
Robert Snodfjrass was born in Knox Co., 111., in 1843, son of
James and Clara S. ; is a successful farmer on sec. 12, this tp., hav-
ing 166 acres of land; was in the war, in Co. D, 103d 111. Inf.;
Dec. 1, 1866, married Sarah J. Gunnett ; George M., born Dec. 22,
1870, is their onlv living child. P. O., Midwav.
Daniel A. Swcgle, farmer, sec. 13; P. O., lairvicw, is a son of
Isaac and Margaret (Allegar) Swegle, of Fairview tp., and was
born in this county Feb. 19, 1854; was married Sept. 10, '78, to
Miranda Hart, daughter of Geo. W. Hart, of Fairview tp.
Peter Voorhees, farmer, sec. 13 ; P. O., Ellisville, Mr. V. is a
HISTORY OF FUI/rON COUNTY. 973
son of John S. Voorhees, of Fairview, and was born Nov. 17, '37,
in Somerset conntv, N. J. ; was brought to this conntv when but 6
months old. Enlisted Aug. 13, '62, in Co. D, 103rd 'ill. Inf., and
was wounded 3 times. Was married Sept. 29, '64, to Margaret
Hageman, daughter of Isaac Hageman. She died suddenly March
1, '79. The youngest child, Cluirles Leslie, followed his mother
July 5, '79. Mr. V. is a member of the Christian Church, of
which his wife had been a consistent member for several years.
Hm. IW'cnrr, who died the past spring (1879) at his residence in
Young Hickory tp., came to this county at a very early day. He
was a native of Pennsylvania. His wife was Polly Cornwell, of
that State. Their children are: Abigail, Isaac, Joshua, David,
Nancy and Mary.
Peter W/iittiel was born in Beaver county, Pa., Dec. 4, 1804. He
was a member of the Penn. Rifle company, and his brother, Henry,
was in the war of 1812, and is now living in Texas at the age
of 89 years. Mr. W. married March 11, '40, Isabel Aton, by
whom he had 7 girls. She died May 30, '65. He married widow
Kline in '73. Three of his children only are living, — Mary A.,
Lissie, and Queen. His grandson, James, is living with him. P.
O., EUisville.
TOWNSHIP OFFICIALS.
The following gentlemen have served the township since its or-
ganization in the various otHcial capacities named :
SUPKRVISORS.
J. Wallack 18o0-51 Chas. Beer 1869
\Vm. Flowers 18o2 S. B. Beer 1870-71
Jacob Do wni 11 lSo3-54 Jacob Fisher 1872
Isaac Weaver ]8.')5 Simon Butler 1878
N. H. Walworth 1856 I). T. Dod.is 1874
John Roberts 1857-58 Wm. G. Swartz 1875
David Rose 185W-61 George W. Beer 1876
E. B. Hibbard 1:62-68 Simon Butler 1877
Chas. Beer 1864-67 John Swigart 1878
Joseph Sparks 1868 Chas. Beer 1879
TOWN CLERKS.
William G. Pwartz 1859-63 Lewis Shafer 1872-73
Matthew Beer 1864 James H. Rodenbaugh 1874-78
Lewis Srhafer 1866-69 Lewis Schafer 1879
J. W. Rist 1870-71
ASSESSORS.
Jacob Fisher 1859-61 Joseph Sparks 1874
Matthew Beer 1866-69 Andrew J. Harlan 1875-76
James Martin 1870 James Ro<lenbaugh 1877
Alonzo Strong 1871 Matthew Fk-er 1878
Simon Butler 1872 David T. Dodds 1879
Wm. G. Swartz 1873
57
974
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
COLLECTORS.
Josenh W. Marklev 1859-60
E B. Hil)l)iir<l. ." ]S(il
W.T. Morris 18()2
Joseph \V. Marklev 18(53
"\V. G. Swartz 18(54
Geo. \V. Beer 18(55
Jolin G Osl.orn 186(5-67
Josepl) W. Marklev.. 18(58
Aiiilrew Alteniuskey 1869
Lewis Schafer 1870
Abraham Shallenberger 1871
James Matteer '. 1872
John Swi^'art 1873
CassQiiinn. 1874
Saiinu'i Huminell 1875
John O Beer 1876
C. P. Fisher 1877
R<>l)ert 8iioilj.'rass 1878
W. D. L. Hummell 1879
i
CHAPTER XVI.
POIJTICAL.
In this chapter we give the returns of every election held in the
county, so far as we could obtain tlieni. The records of many of
the earlier elections are lost, — indeed, all those not given below are
not among the archives of the County Clerk's office. As those
elections were held prior to the days of newspapers in this county,
the Clerk's office is the only place we could expect to find them. In
the compilation of this chapter, fi)r its accuracy and fullness we are
greatly indebted to Mr. Frank P. Paull, Deputy County Clerk, ex-
Sheriff David J. Waggoner and Wm, T. Davidson, editor of the
Democrat, all of whom assisted us very materially in collecting the
matter.
To give some idea of the labor expended in its compilation, we
have onlv to state that often no abstract of the election could be
found, and one had to be prcjwred from the original poll-books, which
would consume hours of the time of two men. The returns of the
election of one year (1855 v,e believe) were secured only after a vast
amount of labor. We had searched diligently through the files of
old election abstracts and poll-books in the County Clerk's office for
the returns of that year, but in vain. Mr. Paull, with his ready
knowledge of the places and conditions of the numberless papers in
this office, assisted, and another search was made, more thorough
than any of the former, still in vain. We then searched newspapers,
but failed to unearth them. Mr. Waggoner was known to have a
large collection of old papers, returns of numerous elections, etc.,
and he was spoken to about the matter. He at once kindly inter-
ested himself and overhauled several hundred ancient papers; still
the account of that election was not found. He several times in-
vestigated his boxes, l)undles and ])ackages, only to learn that he
did not have them. Being thoroughly interested in this subject, as
we have found him in all matters of public interest, he set about to
find them if possible. He thought they were in the possession of a
friend at Canton, and one day, when upon a visit to that city, he
searched forthcm, but only with the same result as before. Not wholly
discouraged, he thought of another i)lacc where he was likely to find
them. He concluded that James M. Davidson, former editor of
the Democrat, was in the possession of the returns of this particular
976
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY
vear; and one day when in Cartilage lie made inquiries of Mr.
"D. ; his old papers were examined and at last the long sought-
for doeument was i'onnd.
We relate these incidents merely that the reader' may the better
appreciate the vast and persistent labor often recpiired to possess a
single item, which of itself many times seems unimportant. Hours
are often expended in securing a name or date, yet when found it
occupies only a very small space and is passed over by the reader
with no thought at all of the labor it cost; yet, should a name or
date be wrongfully stated, how readily it is noticed, and often how
uncharitable are those wlio do not appreciate the position of the
writer! Proper names, too, are so varied that without a personal
acquaintance with each individual, it is often impossible to spell
them correctly. Even members of the same family sometimes spell
their surnamedifferently, as Philips, Phillips, Philipps,and Phillipps.
And as for dates, also, when given verbally, they are sometimes as
different as are the persons giving them.
The political complexion of the county is strongly Democratic.
For many vears that political organization has controlled the ])ublic
affairs of the county. Politics have fluctuated but little here, as
the returns of the many elections given below will show. The poli-
ticians have generally been able to foreshadow correctly the result of an
election many days prior to its being held. While Fulton county has
reared some illustrious sons in the various callings and professions of
life, she has given to the county. State and nation men who have be-
come famous in the political profession. We will not attempt to follow
the political issues year by year further than to give the returns of
each election. By these the rise, decline and fall of parties may be
traced. That elections have been as honorably and honestly con-
ducted in Fulton county as in any other county of the State will not
be questioned. At times, however, some candidate becomes over
anxious for his success and stoops below the high standard usually
strictly followed. A full account of the first election of the county
is given in the first chapter of this book.
ELECTION RETURNS.
ELECTION AUG. 1, 1836.
Congress^.
Willinm L. May, dcm 544
John T. Stuart, whig 345
Stntr Senatur.
Samuel Hackelton, dem 004
Jolui P. Bok-e, whig 206
Rrpri'Hnifatiirs.
.lonas Rawalt, wliig 402
AselF. Ball, whig 340
Wni. Elliott, jr., dem .307
Jnsenh Sharp, dem 23!)
Wni. Shiiin IS
Jonah Marthant - 198
15)9
398
Sherljr.
Hugh Lam.TStpr, wliig 629
Alexander R. Shafler, dem- 86
Coroner.
Daniel AVells 268
Samuel Porter 188
Count;/ Commissioners.
William Johnson 425
Jared Lvf)n, dem 341
Pleasant Odell, dem 306
Chas. Newiomh, ab 355
Erasmus I). Rice, wliig 206
Atnaziah Howard, dem 232
Lewis Bideman, whig 303
543
80
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
977
SPECIAL ELECTION OCT. 10, 1836.
Surreijor.
Stephen H. Pitkin, dem 297 235
Samuel G. Wright 62
John L.Dyer 40
ELECTION AUG. 7, 1837.
County Treasurer.
Erasmus D. Rit-e, whig 447 222
Natlian Bemlles, dem 225
Hiruh Saunders, dem 98
County Clerk.
Stephen Dewey, whig 720 598
Joseph L. Sharp, dem 122
ELECTION AUG. 6, 1838.
Governor.
Cvrus E Iwards, whig 774
Tiiomas Carhn, dem 8u8 34
Congress.
JohnT. Stuart, whig 768
Stephen A. Douglas, dem... 8U8 40
Representatives.
Newton Walker, whig 757
JonisRiwalt, whig 025
D.ivid .Markley, dem 0U3
Joseph Brown, dem 330
Henry B. Evans, dem 3.>9
Stephen Rigdon, whig 226
Thomas J. Little, dem 101
Sheriff.
Hugh Lnnnster, whig 941 318
Benjamin Foster, dem 623
Coroner.
Emsley Wiley, dem 699 349
John Thorp, whig 3.30
County Commissioners.
John Johnston, whig 669 321
Hiram Wentworth, whig... 573 225
John B irker, dem 573 225
Charles Newi-omb, ab 319
William Johnson, dem 2()4
Seth Hilton, whig 348
Is lae Linley, dem 324
Jonah Marchant, ab 136
Josiah Moore, dem 288
John W. Shinn, dem 247
ELECTION NOV. 25, 1839.
State Senator.
David Markley, dem 707 134
John Johnston, whig 573
ELECTION NOV. 2, 1840.
President.
Wm. H. Harrison, whig 1253
Martin Van Buren, dem 1347 94
ELECTION AUG. 2, 1841.
Congress.
James H. Ralston, dem 1110 101
John T. Stuart, whig 1009
County Commissioner.
JohnW. Shinn, dem 897
John F. Randolph, whig.... 1075 178
County Treasurer.
William Elliott, sr., dem.... 958
Franklin Foster, whig 1007 49
School Commissioner.
Frasmus D. Riee, whig 1027 1027
ELECTION NOV 4, 1844.
President.
James K. Polk, dem 1537 103
Henry Clay, whig 1434
James G. Birney, ab 108
ELECTION APRIL 10, 1847.
For Four Delegates to Constitutional Con-
vention.
Isaac Linley 1306
Lvman Moon 993
H. .M. Wead 1170
T. B, Gordon 992
D.ivid Markley 1011
George Krider 1105
Henrv S. Hyatt 791
J. V. b. Gaddis 863
Wm. Wheeler 46
John M. Wright 36
Daniel Dobbins 34
Wm. Ellsworth 35
Geo. W. Little 35
Joint Delegate with Peoria Co-
Richard Freeborn 1091 420
Onslow Peters 671
ELECTION AUGUST. 1847.
County Commissioners.
D S. Johnson 1611 574
John Rilev 1037
Luther Birge 32
County Clerk.
James Johnson 1019
W. J. Taylor 527
F. J. Porter 1198 179
jRecorder.
Robert Paull, dem 1213
Erasmus D Rice, whig 1501 288
County Treasurer and Assessor.
James Manley, dem 928
William McComb, whig 1788 860
School Commis>iioner.
M. Eichelberger, dem 1028 171
H.M. Wead dem 857 ^
978
HISTORY OP FULTON* COUNTY.
Surveyor.
Isniah Stillman, deiii 1306 6G6
ThotiijisClu'Viii-y, whig 730
Harrison Ri^ilon, wiiig 2")7
Elias rrossteor, whig 09
ELECTION AUG. 7, 1848.
GoveDior.
A. C. French, dem 1622 1441
C. V. Dyer, whig 181
Congress.
AVm. A. Richardson, dom... 1624 1443
Eli Wilson, whig 181
State Senator.
David Markley, dem 1266 100
Edson Harkness, whig 11(J6
Erastus Miner, free soil 130
Representatives.
James S. Christy, deni 1177
Edward Sayre, dcni 1190
^Villiam Ktllogg, whig 1538
AVilliani Phelps, whig 1026
H. S. Thomas, free soil 197
Luther Birge, free soil 153
Sheriff.
Joseph Dvckes, dem 2111 1947
IM. S. Hoblet, whig... 164
Amos Leach, free soil 17
Conntij Commissioners.
William Johnson, dem 1409 524
B. M. Veatch, whig 885
Abraham Hale, free soil 1G9
Coroner.
Honrv Snivelv, dem 1.393 560
J. B. Hall, wli'ig 833
Circuit Clerk.
Joel Solomon, dem 843
AVm. McComh, whig 1319 117
State s Attorney.
William Elliott, jr., dem.... 836
Robert S. Blackwell, whig. 1202
ELECTION NOV. 6, 1849.
County Judge.
Henry Walker, dem.. 1320 11
Erasmus D. Rice, whig 1331
Associate Justices.
Parley C. Stearns, dem 1302 152
Jesse Benson, dim 13(13 213
Thomas Han.er, whig 1281
Auson ymith, whig 1150
County L'lerk.
Leonard F. Ross, dem 2348 233G
Fitch J. Porter, whig 12
County Treasurer.
Robert Paull, dem 2128 2128
Surveyor.
Stephen H Pitkin, dem 1496 367
David F. Emry, whig 1129
School Com m issioner.
Wm. N. Cline, dem 20G6 2066
ELECTION NOV., 1850.
Congress.
W. A. Richardson, dem 1.333 146
0. H. Browning, whig 1187
State Senator.
Peter Sweat, dem 1363 241
E. N. Powell, whig 1122
Representatives.
Thomas J. Little, dem 1549
Isaac Linley, dem 1246
Thomas Hamer, whig 1173
Sherif.
D. J. Waggoner, dem 1438 374
Geo. W. Stipi>, whig 1064
Coroner.
Henry Snively 1245
ELECTION M.^Y 10, 1851.
Surveyor.
Franklin Foster, dem 410
Alex. T. Robertson, wiiig... 288
David F. Emry, whig 432 22
ELECTION NOV. 4, 1851.
CouiUy Treasurer.
Rohert Paull, dem 1314 1309
County Surveyor.
Hiram J. Graham, dem 916 728
Terah Joiu-s, dem 188
John G. Voorhees, whig.... 4
School Commissioner.
John W. Shinn, dem 1143 1142
ELECTION NOV. 2, 1852.
Governor.
Joel A. Matteson, dem 2205 365
Edwin B. Webb, whig 1S40
D. A. Knowlton, ind 274
State's Attorney.
E.G.Johnson, whig 2100 207
George \V. Sti])|i. dem 1893
Congress.
^.ewis W. Ross, dem 2106 93
James Knox, whig 2013
L. W. Curtin, ah 346
R('j)rcsentatives.
Will'mm K. John.son, dem. .2044
Levi H. Bradburv. dem 2171
A. T. Robertson," whig 1831
Anson Smith, whig 1794
LeviiinsS|(errv, ab 247
Luther Birge,ab 243
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
979
1483
711
453
Sherif.
Joseph Dyokes, (leili 2223 511
Jonas Risvalt, whig 1712
John Shriller, ab 2l9
Coroner.
Harrison P. Fellows, (lem...2214 394
Harrison Kigilon, whig 1820
L. Ames, ah 230
Circuit Clerk.
Elwnr.l Snyre, (iein 2171 283
Will. MiConili, wiiig 18.18
John M. Wright, ab 254
ELECTION NOV. 8, 1853.
County Judge.
Henry L. Bry.int, duiu 1525
E. StapleiorJ, clem 42
Counti/ Clerk.
John H. Peirsol,dein 1414
liobert Carter, whig 703
County Treasurer.
George Humphrey, ilem...l312
James Up.tegr<itl",'wljig 859
County !Surveyor.
Terah Jones, dem 1538
County Commissioner.
Edward Sayre, deiu 1603 1603
ELECTION NOV. 7, 1854.
Congress.
Wm. McMiirtry, dem 1814 5
James Knox, wiiig 18o9
Representatives.
William N. Cline, dem 1754
Ls.iae Linley, dem. 1580
Amos C. lJai)toik. whig 17_'4
Kouert Carter 1722
Ljvi 11. Bradbury. anti-M . 150
Je.sse Cox, anti-Maine law.. 176
Wm. Atc-n, ab 26
Shi'rijf.
David J. Waggoner, dem. ..2060 541
Hugh Lini:i>;tcr, whig 1519
Thomas J. Waiters 112
Coroner.
Samuel Sivley, <lem 1755 1596
Samuel Uuvall, whig 159
H. P. Fellows, anti-.Maine... 237
County Treasurer.
George Humphrey, <lem... 1666 571
James 11. Smith, whig 1095
Surveyor.
Terah Jones, dem 1749 942
David F. Emrv, whig 807
D. C. Turner, knovvnothing 102
School Commissioner.
Wm. H. Haskell, dem 1543 304
Sands N. Breed, whig 1239
For and Against Subscription of ■<! 100,000
to the Feoria & Hannibal R. R.
For 1897 946
Against 951
ELECTION NOV. 4, 1856.
Fresident.
James Buchiinan, dem 2724 703
John C. Fremont, re}) 2021
Millard Filmoie, American. 898
Governor
Wm. A. Richar.lson, dem. ..2816 429
Wm. H. Bissell, rep 2387
Buekner S. Morris, ind 396
Congi-ess.
I.M. Craig 2880 445
James H. Stuart 2435
State Senator.
William C. Goudy, dem 2848 307
William 11. Franklin, rep. .2541
Representatives.
Joseph Dyckes, dem 2821
Jaints H.'Stipp, dem 28i'2
William V. Kellogg, rep.. ..2403
Thomas Haiiier. wliig 2398
Jesse Cox, whig 377
William D. Nelson, ab 163
Circuit Clerk.
Edward Sayre, dem 2827 424
Robert Carter, rep 2403
T. W. Williams, ab 352
Sherijf.
William M. Standard, dem.2829 461
Beiij. C. Johnson, rep 2.,t)8
Wm. T. VanDerveer 361
Coroner.
James J. Crail, dem 2803
B. W. .Messier, rep 3t.9
Jauies Kobb, ab 2885 82
Surveyor.
William J.E.lie, dem 2784 394
Abraham Hoxie rep -390
James A. Kussell, ab 385
ELECTION NOV. 3, 1857.
County Judge.
Henry L. Bryant, dem 964
County CUrk.
John H. Peirsol, dem 964
County Treasurer.
Jacob Derry, dem 938
Surveyor.
Harrison Rigdon, dem. 946
964
964
938
946
980
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
School Commissioner.
Wm. H. Haskell, dem 943
ELECTION NOV. 2, 1858.
Congress.
James W. Davidson, dem ..3224
William Kellogg, rep 2980
Representatives.
S. P. Cummings, dem 3238
John G. Graham 3241
W. A Dickerman, rep 2979
Wm. Craig, rep 2963
Sheriff.
David J. Waggoner, dem. ..3392
John Bless, rep 2839
Coroner.
Zalmon A. Green, dem 3184
James W. Brooks, rep 2974
ELECTION NOV. 8, 1859.
Count)/ Treasurer.
Jacob Derry, dem 1853
V. M. Grewell, rep 1444
Surveyor.
David Shreeves, dem 1831
D. F. Emry, rep 1464
School Commissioner.
S. Y Thornton, dem 1712
Wm. H. Haskell, rep 1395
ELECTION NOV. 6, 1860.
President.
Abraham Lincoln, rep 3629
S. A. Douglas, dem 3926
J. C. Breckenridge, dem.... 11
John Bell, union 48
Governor.
James Allen, dem 3929
Kichard Yates, rep 3655
Congress.
Robt. G. Ingersoll, dem 3941
William Kellogg, rep 3634
Senator.
William Berry, dem. 3921
Eichard Haney, rep 3673
Representatives.
S. P. Cummings, dem 3941
John G. Gndiani, dem 2928
John H Kellv, rep 3668
AVm. Phelps, rep 3651
Circuit Clerk.
Alexander Hull, dem 3909
William McComl), rep 3677
Sheriff.
Asaph Perrv 3885
G. A. Marsh 3661
943
244
259
262
210
409
367
317
297
274
307
248
232
224
Coroner.
Isaac Cunningham, dem. ...3920 256
James \V. Brooks, rep 3664
ELECTION NOV. 5, 1861.
County Clerk.
Joseph Dyckes, dem 2498
County Treasurer.
Wm. C. Worley, dem 2521
County Judge.
John M. Lewis, dem 2495
School Commissioner.
Stephen Y. Thornton, dem..2540
County Surveyor.
David Shreeves, dem 2541
ELECTION NOV. 4, 1862.
Congress.
-Lewis W. Ross, dem 3134
Representatives.
John G. Graham, dem 4515
Simeon P. Shope, dem 3148
Thomas A. Boyd, rep 1SU8
State Senator.
Albert C. Mason, dem. 3157 1366
Geo. I. Bergen, rep 1791
Sheriff.
J. F. AVillcoxen, dem 3155 1361
Tracy Stroud, rep 1794
Coroner.
H. McCaughev, dem 3150 1361
T. N. Hasson,'rep 1789
ELECTION NOV. 3, 1863.
County Treasurer.
Wm. C. Worley, dem 2738 374
Jackson Carter, rep 2364
County Surveyor.
David Shreeves, dem 2766 401
David Emr\', rep 2365
School Commissioner.
Wm. T. Davidsf.n, dem 2684 314
DeWittC. Bryant, rep 2370
ELECTION NOV. 8, 1864.
President.
George B. McClellan, dem..3694 703
Abraham Lincoln, rep 2991
Governor.
James C. Robinson, dem. ...3698 696
Richard J. Oglesby, rep 3002
Congress.
^Lewis W. Ross, dem 3698 698
'Hugh FuUerton, rep 3000
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
981
Representatives.
L. W. James, dem 3686
Timothy M. Morse, dem 3691
Granville Barrere, rep 2995
Thomas Hamer, rep 2999
State's Attorney.
Thomas E. Morgan, dem ...3695 704
Parley C. Stearns, rep 2991
Circuit Clerk.
Alexander Hull, dem 3691 693
Daniel VV. Walker, rep 2998
Sheriff.
Robert Johnson, dem 3684 682
Wm. W. Hull, rep 3002
Coroner.
F. M. Snivley, dem 3687 686
Ambrose Hasty, rep 3001
ELECTION NOV. 7, 1865.
County Judge.
John M. Lewis, dem 2933 14
Thomas A. Boyd, rep 2919
County Clerk.
Joseph Dyrkes, dem 2941 27
Franklin B. Lemonde, rep-.2914
County Treasurer.
Chas. Howard, dem 2912 2
Samuel B. Spears, rep 2910
Superintendent of Schools.
Samnel S. Tipton, dem 2926 17
Sidney K. Quigley, rep 2909
Surveyor.
David Shreeves, dem 2963 80
M. V. D. Voorhees, rep 2883
ELECTION NOV. 6, 1866.
Congress.
y Lewis W. Ross, dem 3621
^ Chas. E. Lippencott, rep. ...3716 95
State Senator.
Geo. A. Charles, dem 3616
Thos. A. Boyd, rep 3734 118
Representatives.
L. W. James, dem 3624
T. M. Morse, dem 3624
Caleb B. Cox, rep 3714
Geo. W. Fox, rep 3714
Sheriff.
David J. Waggoner, dem. .3642 2
William W. Hull, rep 3640
Coroner.
David J. Austin, dem 3622
John Scrivner, rep 3712 90
ELECTION NOV. 5, 1867.
County Treasurer.
Chas. Howard, dem 3547 500
Caleb J. Dilworth, rep 3047
Surve yor.
David Shreeves, dem 3569 543
L. C. Maynard, rep 3026
ELECTION NOV. 3, 1868.
President.
U. S.Grant, rep 3559
Horatio Seymour, dem 4118 559
Governor.
John R. Eden, dem 4123 593
John M. Palmer, rep 3530
Congress.
Thompson W. McNeely, d..4115 577
Leonard F. Ross, rep 3538
Representatives.
Timothy M. Morse, dem ...4116
John \V. Ross, dem 4129
Caleb R. Cox, rep 3510
Thomas Vandicar, rep 3502
Circuit Clerk.
Henry W.Baughman, dem. 4122 597
Chas.T. Coleman, rep 3525
Sheriff.
Silas Babbitt, dem 4115 577
Thos. Scott Brown, rep 3538
Cororwr.
Joseph Barker, dem 4120 631
Thomas Jenkins, rep 3489
ELECTION NOV. 2, 1869.
County Judge.
John H. Peirsol, dem 3416 862
Pailey C. Stearns, rep 2554
County Clerk.
James H.Stipp, dem 3104 429
Sands N. Breed, rep 2675
County Treasurer.
Evan Baily, dem 3337 584
William McComb, rep 2753
Superintendent of Schools.
Horatis J. Benton, dem 3397 689
Samuel D. Sawyer, rep 2708
Surveyor.
Francis P. Paull, dem 3384 657
Lewis C. Maynard, rep 2727
ELECTION NOV. 8, 1870.
Congress.
Thompson W. McNeely, d..2810 424
Benjamin F. Westlake. rep.2385
982
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Stale Senator.
A. M. Criig, (lem 2832
Bcnj. F. (Jatton, dein 28()3
Tliomns A. Boyd, rep 24o6
Heury J. Vauj^lin, rep 2351
lirpresentativcs.
Tiniotliv M. Morse, dein....279S
John \V. Ross, dem 2834
S. P. Cniiiniiiijrs, dem 2^19
DavidT. Dudd. rep 2;;91
DeWitt C. Bryant, rep 23")2
JauiL-s K. Magie, rep 2383
Sheriff.
Robert Priehard, dem 2803
Thomas P. Dun -an, rep 2419
Coroner.
Daniel Walters, dem 2803
JoLn W. Muss, rep 2419
ELECTION NOV. 7. 1871.
County Treasurer.
E. Bailv, dem 2236
E. D. Slater, rep 1588
County Surveyor.
F. P. Paull, dem 2105
E. Maynard, rep 1618
Coroner.
J. Herriford, dem 2188
I. B. Witchell, rep 1638
ELECTION NOV. 5, 1872.
President.
U. S. Grant, rep. 3'^02
Horace Greeley, lilieml 3704
Chas. O'Conor, dem 52
Governor.
Richar.l J. 0<:lesliy, rep 3511
Gustavus Kcerni'r, lil> 3S28
Sidney Breese, dem 46
Congress.
Granville Barrere, rep 3481
N. E. Worth in-ton, lit) 3840
State Senator.
James DeWitt, rep 3457
S. P. Cummiiigs, lil) 3848
Representatives.
John A. Gray, rep 10226V
Stephen Y. Timmton, lib •.5852i
James M. Dirnell, lih 5631
Christopher Wilson, dem... 386
States Attorney.
Charles J. Main, r.p 3474
Daniel Abbott, dem 3874
Circuit Clerk.
Phil. J. Platt.nburg, rep ...3033
H. M. Bauglimau, dem 3874
384
384
648
487
550
202
317
359
391
400
P
Sheriff.
Chas. C. Rilev, rep 3526
Robert Prichard, dem 3827 301
Coroner.
Jnv C. Thompkins, rep 35.35
HiVam Hunt, dem 3834 299
ELECTION NOV. 4. 1873.
County Judge.
John H. Peirsol, ind 4131
County Clerk.
Isaiah C. Work-y, people's -2358 474
John Prickett, L.rmer..' 1684
County Treasurer.
David F. Emry, people s ..2100
Job Walker, farmer's lick... L'135 35
School Superintendent.
V. M. Grewell, peo's ti.k...2169 168
Ed. Maynard, t'arnj's tick... 2001
ELE, TION NOV. 3, 1874.
Congress.
Richard H. Wliiting, rep. .-1815
Leonard F. Rcjss, ind 359S 1783
State Senator.
A. B. Kirkhri le, rep 2313
Robert Br.nvn. dem 3344 1031
Representativei.
Joseph B. Negley, ind 2460
James DeWitt, rep 5854
Samuel P. I unuidngs, dem. 3821
Stephen Y.ThurnloM, dem. 4536}
Sheriff.
William W.Hull, rep 2504
David J. Waggoner, dem. ..3116 612
Surveyor.
Edward Maynard, ind 7^9
Jonas U. R.iwalt, rep 2274
Clias. KiUsa, dem 2610 336
Coroner.
Richaid M. Horton, ind 798
David Armstrong, rep 2291
Hiram Hunt, dem 2584 293
ELECTION NOV. 2. 1875.
County Treasurer.
Job. "Walker, dem. 1781 521
David F. Emry, rep 1260
County Sivrveyor.
Chas. Killsa, dem 1719 426
Isaac David, rep 12y3
ELECTION APRIL 4, 1876.
County Judge.
Henry L. Bryant, dem 1521
David Armstrong, rep 1560 39
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
983
ELECTION NOV. 7, 1876.
President.
Snmuel .7. Tilden, dein 4009 482
RiUlu'rlonl li. ll;iyt's, ri'p-..4is7
Peter Cooper, greenback... 89
Governor.
Lewis Stuart, dein 4700 573
Shelby M. Culloin, rep 4187
Congress.
George A. Wilson, dem 4537 259
Tlioiiias A. B()V(i,rep 4278
^^'m. W. Matthews, grnbk.. 127
lieprcseniatives.
William T. MiCreary, deni.7057
(,'lias. F. Robinson, (leni 7020^
Henry S. .Meriill, rep 5715
John A. J^eeper, rep 0925
State's Attorney.
Daniel Abbott, ileni 4730 554
Joseph L. Murphy, rep 4170
Circuit Clerk.
ThcophihisL. Frazier, (lein.4047 427
John D. Bealmi, re}) 4220
David J. Waggoner, dem...4071 511
William R. ILissun, rep 4100
Corono:
Hiram Hunt, dem 4095 494
David Armstrong, rep 4::01
ELECTION NOV. 6, 1877.
County Judge.
Samuel P. Cuminings, dem. 2908 154
Henry L Bryant, inU 2814
County Clerk.
Isaiah U. Wurley, dem 5237
County Treasurer.
Philemon Markley, dem... 4731
Superintendent of Sdiools.
Horatio J. Benton, dem — 3019
Mrs. Anna J. Howard, ind..2043
ELECTION NOV. 5, 1878.
Congress.
George A. Wilson, dem.... 3425
Thomas A. Boyd, re]) 3173
Alex. H. MeKeiglian, gnbk. 702
Senator.
IMeredith Walker, dem 3509
Thos. 1*. Duncan, rep. and
green back 3710
Legislature.
Chns. F. Robinson, dem ... 5255
Wni. T. McC'reary, dem... 5119.}
Isaac Black, rep 2855^
Hoseu Davis, rep 870U
:>herif.
George W. Standanl, dem..2997
Oliver P. Randolph, rep 3550
M. M. Joiinson, greenback.. 745
Coroner.
Stephen B. Bennett, dem. ..,35.50
William B. Bolston, re|. 2995
W. D. Nelson, greenback... 792
ELECTION NOV. 4, 1879.
County Treasurer.
Philemon Markley, dem 3058
RilfV liristoi, rej) 2530
Matthew 11. Mitchell, gnbk 324
Surveyor.
Win. T. R Fennessy, dem 3002
Maricn Ingle, rep 2C08
373
252
201
559
555
522
394
CHAPTER XVII.
COUNTY OFFICIALS.
Fulton county has ever been ably represented in her official de-
partments since the organization of the county, as the names in the
foUowinn; lists will show. She has ever had able, shrewd and honest
men conducting her public affairs. Of the vast millions of dollars
that have been handled by her County Treasurers not one dollar has
ever been lost or a Treasurer's honesty questioned. Other counties
have had more or less trouble from time to time with men in the
various departments of her public service, but never, in the entire
history of Fulton county, has a case arisen requiring the duties
or acts of an official to be investigated. This is a good and honor-
able record for this «:rand old countv ; and mav another three-score
years roll around and all the officials who may serve the people
prove as honest, as capable, as courteous, as just as those who have
served during the past three-score years.
Many names will be noticed in the following list, under the differ-
ent headings, that are familiar to the people of the entire county.
Manv of these men, by a life of usefulness and honor, have won
warm and affectionate places in the hearts of the people of Fulton
county. Many names here are not familiar to the present genera-
tion, but were almost household words to the past. Many of these
veterans have since ceased life's labors and left to the remaining
pioneers as a pleasant souvenir a spotless reputation.
The gentlemen who at present hold official position in this
county, in respect to ability, are inferior to none who have served
the countv in the past. There is not a county in the State of Illi-
nois that can boast of more capable, courteous and faithful officials
than those who at present fill the various positions of trust and re-
sponsibility in this county. To them we shall ever feel grateful
for the kind and courteous manner in which they treated us all dur-
ins: our labors in com]>iling this work. They iiave all evinced an
interest in the work and were ever ready and willing to give the
information and lend that aid which are so necessary in gathering
and arranging a full record of the county's history. We will not
mention them personally, for all have aided us materially, and one
and all alike have our warmest thanks.
We feel that brief personal sketches of these gentlemen will be
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 985
hio-hly appreciated by the citizons of this county ; and in this con-
nection we append short bi()j;Tai)hies of each of them, and further
on o-ive the name of every otficial who has served this county since
its organization that it was possible to obtain.
S. P. Cuinmin(/fi, County Judg:e, is a man who is perhaps more
widely known than any other in Fulton county. He is a native of
the State of Maine and came to Fulton Co. in May, 1840, since
which time he has been actively identified with its business interests.
In 1850 he began merchandising and at present is the senior mem-
ber of the old, established mercantile house of Green & Cummings
of Astoria, the Judge's home. In 1858 he was elected to the Illi-
nois Legislature, and re-elected in 1860. In 1862 he entered the
army as Major of the 85th 111. Inf He was chosen a member of
the 'Constitutional Convention of 1869-70, and afterwards served 2
terms in the House of Representatives and one in the Senate of the
111. Legislature. He has represented Astoria township in the Board
of Supervisors for many years ; he is President of that body and has
been for several terms. Served as Justice of the Peace in Astoria
for 25 years, and in 1877 was elected County Judge, which position
he tills with great ability. He is 60 years of age. We present his
portrait to the people of the county in this volume.
T. L. Frazier, Circuit Clerk, was born in Adams Co., 111., in
1844, is son of Lemuel G. and Mary E. (Roberts) Frazier, natives
of Md. and Ky., resi)ectively, who emigrated to Adams Co. in
1822, there being but two families in the county at that time. The
elder Frazier is still living in that county a representative ])ioncer.
The subject of this sketch enlisted Aug.*2, 1862, in the 78th I. V.
L, and served until the close of the war. His company was cap-
tured at Muldrose Hill, Ky., by Morgan in the Winter of 1862, and
held at Benton Barracks, Mo., until exchanged; was also a partici-
pant in battles of Missionary Ridge, Atlanta, and with Sherman on
his march to the sea, thence to Richmond, and Washington, D. C,
in the grand review; from there to Chicago, where he was mustered
out June 27, 1865. He then entered Abingdon College, Knox Co.,
where he devoted two years to securing a literary education. He
was married in 1867 to Miss Dora C. Durham, whose family were
earlv settlers in Knox Co. After marriage he engaged for 2 years
in farming, when he moved to Abingdon and started the Knox
County Democrat; afterwards formed a business relation with Mr.
Heaton of that city. This was the first Democratic paper published
in Knox Co. He subseciuently became engaged in the mercantile
trade, until 1871, when he moved to Fulton Co., and settled in
Table Grove, where he became engaged in the drug and grocery
business, and resided until elected to his present position as Circuit
Clerk in 1876, when he settled in Lewistown. Mr. F. served as
Collector of Indian Point tp., Knox Co., in 1868, and Supervisor in
1869. In 1873 was elected Supervisor of Farmers' tp., this Co.,
which office he filled for 4 consecutive years ; also Justice of the
986 HISTORY OF F.ULTON COUNTY.
Peace in 1875 and '76, and nntil his election to his present position,
^vhieh he has filled to the satisfaction of all. Elizabeth and Clilton
are his living eiiildren.
M. D. Cummings, Depnty Circnit Clerk, son of Jndge S. P. Gura-
mings and wife, Mrs. L. M. Cunimings, nee Dnrell, was born in
Astoria, this connty, Jan. 18, 1849. He was educated in the com-
mon schools of this connty, learned the art of telegraphy, and was
operator at Beardstown prior to accepting his present position. He
was united in marriage Oct. 19, 1879, with Miss Emma, daughter
of D.ivid Kirkbride, the well-known pioueer landlord of Vermont.
He entered the Circuit Clerk's office as Deputy in May, 1877.
Inaiah C. Worlej^, County Clerk, was born in Cumberland Co.,
Pa., Oct. 27, 1834. His parents, Daniel and Mary (Caldwell)
Worley moved to Richland Co., O., in 18,36, where both of them
died when Isaiah was a child. After their demise he was bound out
and sutlered the experiences and hardships of parentless children.
He came into the county in 1849 and sto])ped at Farmington. July
16 of the same year he came to Lewistown, where he has since re-
sided. Hh worked in woolen mills and clerked in stores until 1855,
when he began writing in the off.ce of Circuit Clerk. At the
breaking out of the ilebellion he enlisted in Co. A, 103d 111. Inf.,
and served nearly 3 years, closing his military service in the Signal
Service Corj)S. Returning home he engaged as Deputy in the office
of County Clerk and served nntil 1873, when he was elected to the
office he 'now holds, npon the People's ticket. In 1877 he was
re-elected. His entire service of over 20 years of public life has
been characterized with ability, integrity and uprightness. He mar-
ried Amanda L., daughter of Charles Clark, of this city, and they
have 2 children: Amv Mabel, born Dec. 1, 1865, and William C,
born Dec. 1, 1867.
Frank P. Riull, Dapatv County Clerk, was born in Cham-
paign Cj., O., Mirch 9, 1838, and is the only son of Robert Paull,
a lineal descendmt of Paul Jones, of Revolutionary fame. Mr,
P. came to this county with his parents in 1839. TJiey settled in
Bernadotte, and in 1840 erected one of the first mills in this county,
which was swept away by the spring freshet of 1844. He was
prominently identified with the early settlement of the county, and
is at present living at Ipava. The subject of this sketch has been
engaged in the County Clerk's office since his boyhood. In Sept.,
1862, he engaged in tlie sutler's department of the 103d regt., I. V.
I., and was afterward employed in the paymaster's department until
the close of the war. Returning home he served as surveyor 4 years,
and tiien accepted his present position of Deputy County Clerk.
In March, 1863, he was married to Miss Margaret Shawver, a na-
tive of this county, where she was born in 1838. Anna S., Bertha
A., Lillie and Corda are their living children.
0. P. Randolph, Sheriff of Fulton county, is a native of Fay-
ette Co., Pa., where he was born Feb. 26, 1830; his father, Stepheu
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 987
Rand()l])li, Avas a native of tlio same county, and a farmer. He
married ^liss Elizabeth Phillii)s, and tlieir only ehild was O. P.
The latter passed his youth in Pennsylvania, received a liberal edu-
cation and learned the plasterer's trade. In 1850 he married Isabel
Balsinger. The last four years of his life in Pennsylvania he dealt
in live stock extensively and conducted a meat market in New
Salem. On emigrating to Illinois he settled in Astoria tp., Fulton
Co., purchasing 140 acres of land, — now increased to 220. He
opened a meat market, a part of the time in partnership with j\I.
K. Lerew in Astoria, dealt cNtensively in stock, and then retired to
the farm again ; but in 1878 he was nominated by the Republican
party for Sheriff, and he was elected by 550 majority, in a county
that had always had, for 40 years, only a Democratic Sheriff. He
has had 12 children, 10 of whom are living: John B. and Charles
S., Deputv Sheriffs, Wm. T., Frank P., O.'P., Anna B., Elizabeth,
Maggie F., D. W. and Mollie D.
H. J. Benton, County School Superintendent, is a native of Phil-
adelphia, Pa., and was born in 1819. He is the son of John Ben-
ton, a sea captain, who died in 1822. The subject of this sketch
came to this State with his widowed mother in 1835 and settled in
AVarsaw, Hancock county, being among the early pioneers of that
county. In 183(3 he entered Jackson College, at Jacksonville, and
3 years afterward commenced teaching and has devoted 26 years of
his life to his professional calling. He was married May 31, 1851,
to Miss Smith, daughter of Gen. Smith, of Hancock county. She
is a native of Sangamon county. 111. They have three children, —
Charles, Mary and Alice. Mr. B. has been prominently identified
with the county, and has filled the office of County Superintendent
of Schools since 18()9.
Philemon Markley, County Treasurer, is a native of the Buckeye
State, and was born July 15, 1822. His parents were David and
Susannah Markley, who came to this State in 183G, bringing their
son Philemon. Hon. David Markley was one of the leading men of
Fulton county during its earlier history. He resided at Canton,
where our subject grew to manhood and embarked in active life.
From the age of 12 years to 17 he clerked in a dry -goods store. He
then learned the brick-mason's trade, which he continued to follow
until 1877, when he was chosen by the people to handle the public
funds of the county, which he has done with the signal honesty that
has characterized his entire life. That he gave entire satisfaction to
the public is evinced bvth(i faot of his being elected to a second term,
which he was in 1<S79. Mr. Markley was married in this county in
1845 to Mary G. Shinn, who was born in Virginia Nov. 24, 1828.
A family of 3 children have been born to them, — Sarah, Clara and
Ann, the latter deceased.
Dr. .S'. B. Bennett. — We refer the reader for a sketch of Dr. Ben-
nett, Coroner of Fulton county, to the biographical department of
the history of Fairview.
988
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
(lOUNTY OFFICIALS.
COUNTY COMMISSIONERS.
David W. Birnes
Thomas R. Covell ^82:5
Joseph Moftatt
James Gardner
James Birnes !- 1824
David \V. Barnes
Steplien Phelps
David W. Barnes S-1825
James Gardner
Diniei McNiel
Eli H. Bearce 1-1826-30
Elias Foster
Thomas W. Tavlor
AVilliam Johnson !- 1830-3:
Elijah Put man.
Elijah Wilk'oxen
Ware Lens; 1-1832-34
John McNeil
John McNeil
Jonah Marchant 1-1834-36
Joseph Brown
Charles Newcomh
Jared Lyon 1-1836-38
William Johnson
John Johnst(m 1838-40
John Barker 1838-41
Hiram W.'ntworth 1838-39
Isaac Linlev 1839-42
Samuel Dver 1840-43
John F. Randolph 1841-44
Evan Bailv 1842-45
David S. Johnson 1844-48
Parlev C. Stearns 1846-49
COUNTV CLERKS.
Hugh R. Colter 1823
Stephen Dewey 1824-39
Henry B. Evans 1839 47
Fitch'J. Porter. 1847-49
Leonard F Ross 1849-53
John H. Peirsol 1853-61
Joseph Dvckes 1861-69
James H.'Stipp 1869-73
Isaiah C. Worley 1873
SHERIFFS.
Abner Eads 1823-25
O. M. Ross 1825 27
Mvron Phelps 1827-28
Charles Newcomb 1828-32
Hush Lainaster...
.1832-40
'arley
Jacob Sharp 1846
David S. Johnson 1847
Wm. K. Johnson 1848
COUNTY JUDGES.
Erasmus D. Rice 1849-53
Henrv L. Bryant 1853-61
John'M. Lewis 1861-69
John H. Peirsol 1869-76
Henry L. Br\'ant 1876-77
Samuel P. Cummings 1877
CIRCUIT CLERKS.
Hugh R. Colter 1823
Stephen Dewey 1823-41
tWashington J. Taylor 1841-48
Joel Solomon 1841
William .McComb 1848-52
p:iward Sayre 1852-60
Alex. Hull 1860 68
Henry W. Baughman 18(18-76
Theophilus L. Frazier 1876
tPro tern, pending the appointment of Joel
Solomon by Judge Stephen A. Douglas.
<■ In most awes the figures after the dash .signify the year into which the officer served. In
some instuiues, however, thev only served to the beginning of the year denoted. It was impos-
sible for us to find the name of the officer for every year, and those years for which no names are
given are such as we were unable to obtain.
Cannah Jones 1843-46
Joseph Dvckes. 1846-50
David J. Waggoner 1850-52
Joseph Dvckes 1852-54
David J. Waggoner 1854-56
William M. Standard 1856-58
Davi<l J. Waggoner 1858-60
Asaph Perry. 1800-62
J. F. Willcoxen 1862-64
Rol )ert Job nson 1 864-66
David J. Waggoner 186t>-68
Silas Babbitt 1868-70
Robert Prichard 1870-74
David J. Waggoner 1874-78
Oliver P. Randolph 1878
SURVEYORS.
John N. Ross 1823
Jonas Rawalt 1831-34
Hugh Latnaster 1834-36
Stephen H. Pitkins 1836
Gilhert
Vorhees
Isaiah Stillman 1847-49
Stephen H. Pitkins 1849-51
David F. Emry 1851-53
Tera Jones 1853-56
William J. Edie 1856-57
Harrison Rigdon 1857-59
David Shreeves 1859-69
Francis P. Paull 186i)-74
Charles Killsa... 1874-79
Wm.T. R. Fennessy 1879
SUI'EHINTENDENTS OF SCHOOLS.
Samuel S. Tipton 1865
James K. Harniison -69
Horatio J. Benton 1869-73
Vincent M. Grewell 1873-77
Horatio J. Benton 1877
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
989
SCHOOL COMMISSIONER?!.
Joel Wrifxht 1S33
JoiKis Knwalt 18:W-37
Eriisiiuis I). Rii'e 1^37-44
Fitch J. I'orter 1843-47
M:irtin Eirlu>ll)ergiT 1847-4!)
Willi;ini N. Cline 1849-51
John W. Shiiui 18')l-o3
E.lwiir.l S:iviv ]8o3-o4
Wm.ii.lLrski'U 18o4-o8
S. Y. Tlioniton 18.kS-G3
W. T. Davidson 18G3-0o
COUNTY TREASURERS.
ThomnsL. Ross 1823
Kol.crt Gnint 1823-24
O. M. Ross 1824
Roliert Gnint 1824-27
Moses Hallett 1827
Siu'lden Lockwood 1828
John McNeil 1829-31
Isaiah Stillnian 1831
Jesse Ben son 1832
Erasmus 1). Rice 1833-37
Hi rah Sanders 1837
Erasmus D. Rice 1837-39
John Miller 1839-41
Franklin Foster 1841-43
William .McComb 1843-48
Robert Paull 1848-53
Georjie Humphrey 1853-57
J Mub Derrv ..1857-(il
Wdliam C. Worlcv 18()l-(i5
Charles Howard 18t)5-()9
Evan Bailv 18(19-73
Job Walker 1873-77
Plnlemon Markley 1877
CORONERS.
William CInrk. 1823
Daniel Wells 183(>-38
Emslev Wiley 1838
Henry' Snively 1848-52
Harrison I*. Fellows 1852-54
S uunel Sivley 1854-56
James Robb 1856-58
Zalmon A. Green 1858-00
Isaa(! Cunningham 186 '-02
H. McCanghey 18()0-64
F. M. Snively 1864-66
John Scrivner 1866-68
Joseph Barker. 1868-70
Daniel Walters 1870-72
Hiram Hunt 1872-78
S. B.Bennett 1878
58
CHAPTER XYIII.
THE PRESS.
The printing press, the most potent agent in molding the destinies
of a community or a nation, and the one perhaps the least appre-
ciated for the good it does, has ever exerted a healthful influence in
forming the sentiments of the people of Fulton county. Prior to
the date of the first issue of the pioneer paper of the county hut few
papers ever found their way into the homes of the early settlers.
They received mail at the scattering settlements only once a week,
and occasionally some religious pnper or Eastern journal would be
sent by friends in the more fortunate and larger towns in the South
and East.
The pioneers were ambitious and enterprising and ere many years
had rolled around started a paper of their own. The first news-
paper enterprise inaugurated in Fulton county so far as we are able
learn was the Canton Herald. This was the pioneer sheet of the
Military Tract. It was started by Rev. Gideon B. Perrv, D. D.,
L. L. D., and Ptolemy Stone in 1837. Rev. Perry came to Canton
shortly prior to this and became one of its leading citizens.
He practiced medicine and surgery and also preached. During his
residence in that city he built a church, several dwellings and en-
gaged in the drug business. He died at Hopkinsville, Ky., Sept.
30, 1879, at the time Rector of Grace Episcopal Church.
The Herald evidently had but a short existence, as we find in
1840 The Western Telegraph was published at Canton. The editors
of this paper, which was a six-column folio, were Stone & Christ.
This was the Mr. Stone who aided Mr. Perrv in founding the first
paper. It appears that he was the great pioneer newspaper man of
Fulton county, for ere long we find him the principal actor in
another paper.
March 26, 1841, the first number of the Fulton Telegraph
appeared. This paper was undoubtedly a continuation of The
Western Telegraph. It too was. a six-column folio and nicely
printed. It was published by Ptolemy Stone, and edited by
Davidson & Stone.
The Fulton Banner was the next publication to appear from the
press of this county. This was a five-column folio and published at
Lewistown, by whom we are unable to learn. Then came the Illi-
nois Public Ledger, which first appeared in 1850; of this the Ful-
HISTORY OF FULTOX COUNTY. 991
ton Ledger is the outgrowth. About that time and since, neM'spapcr
enterprises have sprung up in ditforent parts of the county, many of
which however to have but a siiort existence.
Btdow we give historical sketclies of each of the nine weekly
papers published in Fulton county.
FULTON COUNTY LEDGER.
This is one of leading Democratic journals of Central Illinois, and
one of the oldest. For a period of thirty years it has greeted its
readers, and for twenty-three years it has been under the supervision
of its present editor and publisher, Mr. S. Y. Thornton, who is the
oldest editor in Fulton county, and who ranks high in the journal-
istic profession.
In October, 1850, the Illinois Public Ledger firfit appeared. This
was a seven-column folio sheet published at Lewistown, and of
which the Fidfon County Ledger \i> the outgrowth.
The Public Ledger was a weekly published by Joseph Dyckes and
S.S.Brooks. The former was proprietor and the latter editor. It
was conducted for some time at Lewistown, the office standing across
the street west of INIr. Nathan Beadles' residence. Soon Charles E.
Griffith became editor and manager. He was an apprentice with
Mr. Thornton in the same office in Pennsylvania and came and
stopped at Lewistown and took Mr. Brooks' place on the Ledger, and
in 1854 located at Canton with the paper. In order to induce
the Ledger to be brought to Canton, Henry Walker bought a one-
third interest in it, when the ownership of the paper was equally
divided between Messrs. Dyckes, (jiriffith and 'Walker. In the fall
of 1854 Mr. Dyckes was bought out by John Bideman, when the
firm was known as Griffin & Bideman. Mr. Dyckes did not sever
his connection with the entcrjjrise, hoMever, until he had sunk several
thousand dollars in it, he tells us. But few papers have been estab-
lished without a loss, and the Ledger is not an exception.
In the fall of 1856 Mr. Thornton bought Mr. Griffith's interest,
and the firm was then Thornton & Bideman. It remained thus
only a short time, for in the spring of 1857 Mr. Thornton bought
out Bideman and became the sole proprietor and editor. That was
the last change ever made in its management. Mr. Thornton has
remained steadily and faithfully at the helm ever since. He as-
sumed control of it at the beginning of its sixth volume. Number
one of that volume apj^eared Nov. 18, 1856.
The early papers of the county had no local columns or even
local items. Indeed, we find copies of old publications without a
single " local," or the mention of an event transpiring in this
county. Now we pick up any of the papers of to-day and we may
find hundreds of local notes. We can become acquainted with the
news of the entire county from almost any paper published at pres-
ent. The Ledger has the honor of being the pioneer in, this novel
992 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
line of journalism, for it was the first paper in the countv to intro-
duce locals into its columns, which was done l)y its present editor.
During the early history of the bounty but few ibreign papers
found their way into its borders. The people had no opportunity
of getting the city dailies twice each day as they have now, but had
to dej)end upon their own local j)apers for the general news of the
country. Accordingly, the early ])aj)ers were filled with clij)pings
from the few foreign papers the editor was fortunate enough to get,
and with choice literary selections. And we miy-ht here remark
that one can find in the columns of the old files of the Lechjer as
choice a variety of literature, as entertaining and interesting as are
to be found in any of the periodicals of this boasted day of learning.
The Jdinois Public Ledger was changed to The Fulton Ledger, and
after Mr. Thornton assumed control of it he changed it to the Ful-
ton County Ledger, and brought it out in a new dress. It was
started as a seven-column folio, and shortly afterwards enlarged,
and thus run till 1862, when it was reduced to its original size.
Again, Nov. 24, 1871, at the beginning of volume 22, it was en-
larged to its present size, — eight-column folio.
The Ledger enjoys a liberal advertising patronage and a large
circulation. Its locals are abundant, fresh and crisp. Its foreign
and general news is such as the public desire to become acquainted
with. Its editorial columns are ably managed. The political mea-
sures and movements of the day are discussed feal'lesslv, vet im-
passionately. The principles of the Democratic party are advocated,
and other measures that its editor believes to be for the welfare of
the general public. Indeed, the I^edger is a first-class journal in
every department. Of its editor, Mr. Thornton, we will now sjieak.
Stephen Yerkes Thornton, editor and proprietor of the Fulton
County Ledger since the fiiU of 1856, was born in Philadelphia, Pa.,
Dec. 13, 1831 ; was educated at the common schools of his native
city and the Coffeyville Boarding School; at the age of 17 he com-
menced to learn the printer's trade in the office of the Doyelstown
i>emocm^, Bucks county. Pa. ; Morked several months in 1864 in
the office of the Washington Globe, and June 2 of that year he came
to Canton, 111., and worked in the Ledger of^ce as a journeyman
printer until the fall of 18o6, when he bought Mr. Griffith's interest
in that paper, and the next spring he bought out the other partner,
Mr. Bideman ; in 1859 he was elected County Commissioner of
Schools and re-elected in '61 ; was Alderman of the 4th ward of Canton
two terms, 1865-7, and one term in the 3d ward, 1870-71 ; member
of the Board of Education 1869 to 1876, being President the last
two years ; in 1872 he was elected a member of the State Legislature
on the Democratic ticket, and in 1874 was re-elected; and in 1876
was a candidate on the same ticket for Secretary of State.
His parents were Theodore and Mary (nee Yerkes) Thornton, the
former a native of Pennsylvania near Philadelphia, and of English
descent, and the latter of Montgomery county, Pa., of German an-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 993
cestiy. Her fiithcr was Wm. Ycrkcs and her mother was Lotitia,
neehong; her grandfather was Harman Yerkcs,and her grandmother
was Mary, nee Stout; her great grandfather emigrated from Ger-
many and loeated in Montgomery county, Pa. Mr. T.'s father's
father was John Thornton ; liis father's mother was Mary, nee Moon ;
this family came from Engh»nd and settled in Bucks county, Pa.
Mr. Thornton married Ann Adelaide Baudouine, daugiiter of
Abraham and Cornelia {nee Stout) Bau(h)uine, in the Baptist church
at Canton, Feb. 14, 1858 ; of their 5 children 3 are living, — Theo-
dore R. (dec. at 3 years of age, in the spring of 186*2), Mary L.
(died within 10 days of last, both of scarlet fever), Ella Irene, Wm.
E. and Carrie.
THE LEWISTOWN DEMOCRAT.
There is no paper published in interior Illinois that is more
widely known than the one of which we now write. For a quarter
of a century it has regularly made its weekly visits to the homes of
the citizens of Lewistown, and, indeed, of all parts of the county.
During these manv years no other paper in the county has wielded
a greater influence for the public weal, and for its party j)rinciples,
than it. The thirteen hundred different numbers of it that have
been issued have done more toward molding the political sentiment
of Fulton county, and furnished a greater variety of news and choice
literary reading than any other journal published within its
borders.
But few papers have been founded and experienced so few
changes in its editorial management during an existence of twenty-
five years as the Donocrdl has. No other name than that of David-
son has ever appeared at its head. Only one change has ever been
made, and for over twenty years the present editor and publisher
has stood at the helm.
In the way of a preface to the historical sketch of the Democrat
we wish to speak of two or three other papers that flourished at
Lewistown just })revious to the founding of it.
The Fulton Republican was started in 1844 by Hugh Lamaster as
a Whig organ and an im])etuous advocate of Henry Clay ft)r Presi-
dent. It suspended in 1854 immediately upon the removal of the
Illinois Public Lcd(/er to Canton, and Lewistown was for a time
without a paper. The Republican was plucky, and although for
some time previous to its. suspension it did not pay as an enterprise,
yet so long as its rival, the L<(h/er, rcinained at Lewistown it would
hold out even at a loss. .1. .M. Rankin, a school-teacher, bought
most of the material of the Republican office and started a very neat
seven-column papjr called the , thirteen issues of which
appeared, when it suspended.
Just here we wish to remark that the reason for not giving the
name of Mr. Rankin's j)ul)li('ation is not because we failed to make
diligent inquiries to obtain it. Many persons who we were informed
994 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
would remember its name were queried in regard to it, but not one
could call tlic name to mind. Even Mr. Frank P. Paull, a man of
excellent memory and who was employed upon it as a compositor,
fails to remember it. He called upon as many as twenty persons
whom he knew were once familiar with the short-lived sheet, but not
one of them could tell its name. Thus, perhaps, the title of this
pioneer paper will never be resurrected from the oblivion that has
already enshrouded it.
The' first number of The Fulton Democrat, the original name of
the Lewistown Democrat, appeared June 14, 1855. It was pub-
lished bv James M. Davidson, brother of the present editor. The
printing' office at that time was in a little one-story brick building
that was located just north of the court-house. Its salutatory was
three and one-half columns in length. It was an able review of the
political history and situation of the United States, and the editor
even crossed the ocean to Europe and spoke in a familiar manner of
the political situations of the powers of that continent. The paper
was a six-coluuin folio, neatly printed, and reflected credit upon its
publisher.
Mr. J. M. Davidson conducted the Democrat as editor and pro-
prietor until July, 1.S58, when Wm. T. Davidson became associated
with him as co-i)artner, and the firm was known as Davidson Bros.
It remained thus but a short time, however, for we find that on
Nov. 12, 1858, the firm was dissolved by James M. Davidson with-
drawing, leaving Wm. T. Davidson sole editor and proprietor,
which he has remained to this day, James M., during the past
eigliteen years, has been editing the Carthage (111.) Republican.
During the summer and autumn of 1879, Mr. Davidson erected
a large brick building especially arranged for a printing office.
This building, which "doubtless will be known as the ''Democrat
Building," is located upon the west side of the Public Square, and
is one of the finest business blocks in Fulton county. The entire
upper floor of the structure is occupied by the office of the Demo-
crat. All of the more modern conveniences and improvements
have been introduced in it, and to-day it is not only the largest and
best fitted printing establishment in the county, but will compare
favorably with any offices in any of the smaller cities of the State.
Among the uselui improvements introduced in the new office is a
steam engine, which furnishes ample ])ower to run his presses.
Politically, as the name iuiplies, this is a Democratic pajier. The
editor, however, is independent and fearless in his editorials. He
advocates or approves men and measures with all the force and
abilitv of a natur.dly gifted pen and an exccdingly j)ositive out-
spoken nature. He has a mind (»f his own and never fears to ex-
press it. His articles have a characteristic terseness and force which
is well known all through Central Illinois. His opinion on public
matters, on political issues, and of public men, is sought and relied
upou with no little degree of confidence.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 995
He has labored liard for many years upon this paper, with an
ambition to make of it, not a political organ, but a good I'amily
newspaper; and that his labors have been appreciated is evinced by
the liberal patronage his paper has received.
The Lewistown Democrat is a large, nine-column folio and con-
tains a greater amount of reading matter than any other journal
published in the county. Its local columns are well filled with the
happenings of the entire county which are of general or local in-
terest. During the early days of the existence of this paper it con-
tained a very limited number of locals, for, said the editor, "Nothing
occurred to make a local of."
William Taylor Davidson, editor and proprietor of the Democrat,
was born in Petersburg, Menard Co., 111., Feb. 8, 1837, and brought
to this countv the foilowin<2: vear, where he was reared and has since
lived. Isliain G. Davidson, his f ither, was brought from South Caro-
lina to Illinois in 1807, even prior to the organization of the Territory
of Illinois, and 11 years before its organization as a State. He was
born in 1802, and'died in Feb., 1878. Up to the time of his death
there were few men living in the great Prairie State who came into
it while it was yet a county of the Territory of Indiana. Mr.
Davidson's mother, Sarah A. (Springer) Davidson, was born June
2, 1810. She was brought (in 1811), to the State before its organ-
ization as such and lived in log forts in Coles county during the
war of 1812 to '15. She saw many of her neighbors killed by the
Indians. His parents were united in marriage in 1826. This
couple were truly pioneers. Wni. T. began his career as printer
upon the Republican in 1853 with Hugh Lamaster, and has made
it his lite work. He was elected Commissioner of Schools for Ful-
ton county in 18()3, and did much to rectify the prevailing abuses
of school privileges. He was united in marriage with Lueinda
Ann Miner in 1800. They have had a family of 7 children born
to them, 5 of whom are living. Harry is their eldest sou.
CANTON REGISTER.
This large and excellent newpapor is one of the leading journals
of Central Illinois, indeed, it takes rank with the larger and more
prosperous pipers of the Northwest. Unusual ability, tact and
business enterprise are displayed in its management. Its editorials
are ably propired, its local columns are generally full, well arranged
and emliraoe all t\\i'. h ipponings of the city, indeed, of the entire
county. It his a list of regular correspondents in various parts of
the county, who contribute well-prepared articles of the news of
their district each week.
The typographical appearance of the Rejider, which is the largest
paper publislied in Fulton county, is neat and tasty. It is an honor
to any office to send out such excellent quality of work. The
Regider office is furnished all through with the best material and
presses, and for mechanical execution the job work done at this
996 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
offi32 will compare favorably with that turned out from the larger
establishments of the State. Its present editor is one of the
thorou,ij;hly enterprising newspaper mjn of the county, and that the
progress lie has made is appreciated by tlie general public is evinced
by the unusual success attending his enterprises.
The first issue of the Canton Register appeared in January, 1849,
Charles J. SjIIou* being publisher. It was then a six-column folio.
In April following, Mr. Sellon sold the office to Messrs. Slaughter
& Sharkey. In July following Mr. Slaughter died of cholera, and,
Mr. Sharkey, having no practical knowledge of the newspaper busi-
ness, the services of John S. Winter, Esq., were secured as editor.
Mr. Winter soon after resigned his position and commenced the pub-
lication of the Knoxville Journal. He is the present County Clerk
of Knox county. In November, 1849, Mr. Sharkey procured the
services of Mr. John P. Brooks (who was afterwards elected State
Superintendent of Public Instruction) as editor, and the Rec/isfer
was issued as a Democratic paper. Up to this time it had been
neutral in politics. In this character the /u-r/AsM' lived but a short
time, and in February, 1850, ceased to exist, and the office fell into
the hands of T. Maple, who in August of that year sold it to
Thos. J. Walker, of Belleville, 111. He purchased a larger press,
and in September recommenced the publication of the Register as a
neutral paper, and enlarged it to seven columns. For a few weeks
he employed Mr. Wm. H. Haskell as editor, but soon thereafter
took Dr. Asa Lee Davison as partner in the office and editor of the
paper. In 1852 Mr. Walker disposed of his interest in the office to
Mr. Henry L. Nicolet. On the 2d day of March, 1853, Dr. Davi-
son died, and Mr. Alpheus Davison bought his interest in the office,
the firm then being Davison & Nicolet. The new firm soon changed
the character of the paper from neutral to indejxnident, and boldly
discussed the political issues of the times without regard to party,
one of the proprietors being a Democrat and the other a AVhig.
The Register o[)posQd the Kansas-Nebraska bill, which subsequently
caused the destruction of old party lines and the organization of the
Republican party. In 1856 the Register became an outspoken Re-
publican paper, and by the assistance of friends a power press was
purchased and the paper enlarged to eight colums. In 1861 the
proprietors threw aside party lines and declared only in favor of the
maintenance of the Government and the Union without regard to
party. During the years 18(51-2 the paper had a hard struggle for
its existence, it being suspended for two months during 1862, while
both its proprietors were in the army.
*Mr. ScIIon was siiVisoqnently conncctorl with sevor.il different pipers, nnd
on the lt^e;ikiii<; out of tiie w.ir Itecaiiu' M ijor of :ui Illinois regiment, where
he remained till his health and hearing were so niucli iinpaire<i liiat it lecanie
necessirv for him to resiirn. After retMrnin<r home lie was for a short time
conneeted with the Springfield Journal, an 1 still later with the Peoria Tran-
script, but his heahh continued to fail, and he died in 18(32.
HISTORY OF FULTON COITXTY. 997
In October, 1866, !Mr. Alphciis Davison sold his interest in the
paper to James K. Magie, who became its editor. The firm name
was Nicolet & Magie, and the Register was again a pronounced Re-
publican paper. Some time between 1868 and 1^72 Mr. Nicolet
disposed of his interest to W. P. Tanquarv, and the firm name was
changed to Magie & Tanquarv. In 187o Mr. Tanquarv sold out to
Mr. Magie, who became sole proprietor. In 1877 Mr. Jesse N.
Berry and E. R. Magie leased the office (Mr. Jas. K. Magie having
been appointed State Printer Ex])ert, could not attend to the publi-
cation of the paper) for one year. At the expiration of their
lease ^Ir. Berry retired, and James K. Magie & Son became editors
and publishers. During the spring of 1878 the Messrs. Magie pro-
nounced in favor of the National or Greenback party, and the
Register rapidly ran down until it no longer paid ex]>enses.
In June, 1878, Mr. C. E. Snively, the present editor and proprie-
tor, purcliased the office and good will of Mr. J. K. Magie, and at once
made the Register an advocate of Republican principles. By dint of
hard labor the Register again assumed its place as tlie leading paper
of the county, and to-day enjoys a circulation of almost '2,000 copies
per week. It is also the largest paper i)rinted in Fulton county.
Clarence E. Snively, editor and proprietor of the Register, is a
native of Ellisville, Fulton county, where he was born July 4,
18o4. He received his education j)rin('ipally at the public sclioolsat
Avon. His father, Naaman Snively, carried on the harness business
at Avon for several years. AVhen the subject of this sketch was 10
years of age this parent died, at which time Clarence entered the
office of E. A. Snively, editor and publisher of the Rushville Times.
He rem lined in that office lor 2 years, when he entered the office of
the Pekin Register (now the Times) to finish his apprenticeship.
After he had accomplished this his ability was appreciated to such an
extent that he was made foreman of the office. In 1875 he bought a
hilf interest in tiie Carlinville Democrat, in company with H. M.
Kimball ; af"ter one year sold out his interest in this ])aper to A. W.
Edward. He received an offer from W. T. Dowdall, editor of the
National Democrat, Peoria, to take the fbremanship of that office,
which he accepted, and in that capacity acted until Sept. 17, 1877,
when he took the fbremanship of the Canton Register office, then
edited by Berry & Magie.
In June, 1878, Mr. Snively bought the entire interest of this
paptT, since which time he has conducted it alone. The circulation
has increased under his management from 500 to almost 2,000,
and from a six-column folio to a six-column quarto, and it is
one of the largest and best managed provincial papers in the State.
THE NEW^S-CHRONICLE.
As early as 1843 Lewistown had a nowspap'^r. At that early
date the Fulton Banner was published here, by whom we do not
know. It was a five-column folio, and lor a pioneer paper the
998 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
meclifinical work reflects credit to the skill of its publishers. Dur-
ing this period of thirty-seven years many papers have been pub-
lisiied in the county, but not so many in Lewistown as in other
places. Newspaper enterprises have proven more successful, con-
sequently more permanent in this city than in most other places.
The Lewistown Union, a Republican organ publi.>«hed here, was
started by De Witt Bryant about 1864 or '65, and was run till
about 1871. This paper passed into several liands during its exist-
ence of a half dozen years. Phelps & Bryant became its publishers
for a time, when Mr. Bryant sold to G. A. Hyde, and Hyde &
Phelps conducted it. Mr. Phelps soon retired, selling out his inter-
est to his partner's father. The Union was run by lather and son
for a time, when the son became sole proprietor. During the year
1871 he moved the material to Ipava and began the publication
of the Fulton Press.
No time in the history of the city have the principles and measures
of the Rjpublican party had such a strong and able organ in Lewis-
town as at present, which it has in The Neics- Chronicle. Its editors,
Messrs. Yarnell & Ketcham, fully realize the arduous duties and
responsibilities resting upon them as conductors of one of the lead-
ing political papers of the county. Not only is The Neirs- Chronicle
admired for the fair and able manner in which it discusses the po-
litical issues of the day, but as a news and literary journal it ranks
high. It is an eight-column folio, neatly printed, and besides its
foreign, national and local news, its literary clippings and produc-
tions, its p.'rsonals, poetry, editorials, market reports and miscellany,
it contains a goodlv number of advertisements, thus showing that it
is ai)preciated by the best judges of the value of a newspaper,
advertisers.
In 1875, Nov. 13, George Yarnell founded the Lewistown Neics,
a five-column folio. He purchased new presses and office material
and started a job office, and issued the paper to advertise his new
enterprise. This little sheet was so well received that Mr. Yarnell
was encouraged to enlarge it and send it forth as a regular publica-
tion. This he did March 30, 1876, when it was increased to the
present size of llie Scics-Chroniclc.
Mr. Yarnell continued to publish the iVc jr."?, meeting with success,
until November 13, 1879, when he was joined by ^^'. L. Ketcham,
and The Xcn-s- Chronicle issued. Mr. Ketcham was formerly editor
of the Vermont Chronicle, and the News and Chronicle were com-
bined, and botii gentlemen unite their forces in the publication of
The News- Chronicle.
The paper is established upon a paying basis, and its future seems
bright. The influence it will wield in the interest of the Republi-
can party in this part of the county will be l'elt,and we feel assured
that it will be appreciated by the members of that great organiza-
tion. Its subscription price is only §1.50 per year.
There is one feature of The News- Chronicle worthy of note, in
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 999
this coinection. While its readers enjoy the benefits of the
" p.t nL outside," yet the great mass of foreign advertisements that
usually disfigure "patent sides" are dispensed with. Messrs. Yar-
nell & Ketcham have speeial arrangements with the publishers of
these whereby tliey get only choice literary selections and general
news, which are selected and compiled by experts.
Geo. Yarnell, senior editor of Tke News- Chronicle, publsshed at
Lcwistown, is a n;itive of Fayette county, Pa., where he was born
Djc. 27, I80O. His father, Ellis Yarnell, was born in Pennsyl-
vania, and was a farmer through life; he married Miss Hannah C.
Taylor, of Pennsylvania; of their 8 children George was the eldest
but one ; he was but 2 years of age when his parents settled in
Licking Co., O. ; at 17 he went to Putnam, O., where in the office
of the Western Recorder he learned the printer's trade. At the end
of 2 years, on account of ill-health, he went to Missouri, where he
rapidly recovered, and entered the office of the I/iberty Tribune,
published at Liberty, Mo., and there gained a large practical experi-
ence; afterward he became employed at Ijcxington and St. Louis;
returning to Ohio he remained until 1854, when the California min-
ing excitement was at its height. He crossed the plains with Rus-
sell, Waddell & Co., and after a w'earisome trip of 4 months he
landed at Mirysville. Near Diamond Spring he began life as a
miner; remained in California 9 years; was also editor of the
Placerville Daily Neujs. He then returned to this county, where,
near Lewistown, he bought farm property and followed agricultural
life until 18G9, when he again went to Calitbrnia, stopping at Los
Angeles, where in connection with a younger brother he established
the L')s Angeles Daily Erpress, which hid a very good circulation.
In 1871 Mr. Yarnell permanently settled in Fulton county and fol-
lowed farming until 1875, when he began the issue of the Weekly
Neivs.
Mr. Yarnell is a man of a family. In 18G4 he was united in
marriage with Miss llosa Ann Felkel, a daughter of John Felkel,
of Lewistown township. They have 4 children, — John E., Mary
M., Sarah A. and Jennie.
ir. L. Ketchfim, the literary man of the Xeios-Chronicle, is a young
gentleman of business ability and a writer of no mean reputation.
During the early part of the present year (1879) he moved from
Havana, Mason county, his former residence, and where he had
conducted a piper, to Vermont, and assumed the management of the
Vermont Chronicle, formerly and at present owned by George L.
Duroll. He conducted this paper tor a few months, when he
formed a co-pirtnership with Mr. Yarnell, combining the Chronicle
with the Lcwistown A'jws. Mr. Ketcham is an ingenious, practical
printer, thoroughly understands the art and executes some very fine
job work.
1000 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
VERMONT CHRONICLE.
The advanoc guard of civilizitioii who first settled in this county
had no daily papers, and even weeklies were like "angel's visits,
few and far between," for mails were irregular and infrequent, be-
ino" carried on horseback, and sometimes not carried at all. The
early pilgrims who located at Vermont had their mails carried to
them from Bernadotte, one of tlie principal points of the county at
that time. Some of the men, who are now white-headed veterans,
were young men full of life and vigor then, and thought nothing
of making long journeys alone through an unsettled country. It
was by the bravery and toil of these men that Vermont received a
few copies of some religious journal or Eastern paper. For a dec-
ade, however, her people have been supplied witii their own local
paper from their own presses. After the completion of the C, B. &
Q. Railroad a season of great business prosperity was enjoyed by
Vermont. Mercantile business was never so great; building of
both store-houses and dwellings went rapidly on, and all kinds of
mechanical labor were employed in the growing town. Besides
these aids a new road was being constructed, the R., R-I. & St. L.
R. R. At this properous j)eriod in Vermont's history, George L.
and Edward P. Durell, two enterprising sons of one of the early
and prominent settlers, Wm. Durell, started a paper. It was
christened the Vermont Chronicle, and the first number appeared
Nov. 27, 1870.
These gentlemen engaged F. P. Hallowell to conduct the edito-
rial department of the new paper. Mr. Hallowell was a bright and
talented man and made a good editor, but at the expiration of lour
or five months severed his connection with it. At that time George
,L. Durell, the present editor and proprietor, purchased the interest
, of his brother. Col. E. P. Durell, long the p<»i)ular local agent of
the C, B. & Q. R. R. Co., is a writer of considerable talent and did
much with his pen and energy to establish the Chronicle. He re-
cently resigned his position on the railroad, which is now ably filled
bv Edward R. Thomas.
'George L. Durell, upon the withdrawal of his brother, assumed
editorial and business management of the paper, and gave the peo-
ple of West Fulton and Southeastern McDonough an excellent
locil journal. It won warm esteem in the hearts of the people,
and ajirominent place in their homes. Its pathway was not always
strewn with the sweet perfumed rose, nor always lighted by the
cheering noon-d ly sun, but its editor struggled on, with an abiding
faith in the ultimate success of his pet enterprise.
Until the earlv sumaio-r of the present year (1879) he continued
faithfully at the helm. He then sold o'ut to W. L. Ketcham, a
young m \n from H ivana. 111. The enterprise did not prosper under
his b1-ief mmagemant as he would have it, and he therefore with-
drew. A'-iin Mr. Darell cam3 forward, rcsumjd his former post
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1001
and to-(liy is glvlnj^ the people of Vermont and vicinity a news-
paper eqnal to any publication in the county.
Pulitically the Chronicle is a jn-onounccd Republican paper, and
has wielded a healtliful influence for tiie principles of its jiarty. The
editorials which aj>pear in its columns from week to week ujwn the
great and im])()rtant political questions of the day are admired for
their clearness, force and logic. It is what is termed in this day,
when ]):irty lines are somewhat loosely drawn, a "stalwart" })aper,
being uncompromisingly Rej)ublican. It is regarded as one of the
most reliable ])aj)ers in the county in this respect.
In the local columns of the Chronicle appear all the events of the
town and vicinity, as well as of the county which are of any public
interest.
George L. Darell, the editor and proprietor of the Chronicle,
assumed the management of the paper before he was of age, and is
one of the few newspaper men who took the editor's chair and
business control of a pa])er without any ])rnctical knowledge of the
art. Notwithstanding these disadvantages he made his enterj)rise
pay from the first. Mr. Durell is a son of William Durell, one of
the early pioneers of Vermont. No man weilded a greater influ-
ence in building up Vermont in its infancy then Mr. William
Durell. George L. was reared in Vermont, and there married
Miss Lutie Stnplelbrd, a daughter of Edward yta])lelbrd, who was
largely indentified with the interests of Vermont before his death.
He erected the large brick hotel structure on north Main street, and
the brick dwelling just across the street, which at the time was the
finest one in the town. He was also a merchant of Vermont.
THE FARMINGTON NEWS.
Newspaper business in Farmington has been on a par with the
same business in other places. As far back as 1856 an attempt was
made to establish a newsj)aper in that town. In that year the
Farminr/fon Journal made its ajipcarance. It was a seven-column
paper, ably edited and neatly ])rinted. It lived but one year. In
1805 'The F(irtni)i(/fon Times was established, but lived only a few
months. It was printed at Lewistown by E. EI. Phelps, who was
at that time publishing the Ecwistown Union. From that time
until May, 1874, Farmington was without a newspaper. At that
time J. D. Hurd, a Peoria ^irinter, established The Farmington
News, which, at this writing (Nov., 1879), is still in existence, being
five and one-half vears old.
Besides these papers, a monthly magazine, called the Poultry
Record, was published at Farmington for three years, 1872-74, by
C. W. Heaton, but it was afterwards sold and merged into the
American Poultri/ Joinnal at Chicago.
/. D. Hurd, editor of The Farmington News, was born in Wyan-
dotte Co., Ohio, MiU'ch 19, 1847. He learned the trade of a printer
in the Gazette office at Lima, Ohio, before he was 17 years of age.
1002 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Between 17 and 18 years of age he emigrated to this State, locating
at Urhana, 111., where for two years before arriving at maturity he
])ublished The Champuic/n Count y JourmiJ, a Democratic newspaper.
In 1 808 he was married to Miss Hcrmien S. Fluke, daughter of F.
Fluke, of Lima, Ohio. During the years he was j)ublishing the
Journal at Urbana, 111., he was prosecuting the study of law, and
was admitted to practice in September, 1808. Circumstances pre-
vented his beginning the practice at that time, and he continued in
the printing business, moving from Urbana to Peoria in 1871,
where he was connected with the Daily Transcript 'untW his removal
to Farmington in May, 1874, when he commenced the publication
of The Farmington News. In January, 1877, while still at the head
of the News office, he opened a law office, and has since combined
the newspaper and law business. Mr. Hurd fills the editor's chair
with no small degree of ability. He has made of the Neics a first-
class local paper, and it takes rank among the profession as such.
His practical knowledge of the " preservative art," and talent as a
writer enable him to publish a journal of a high standard quite
easily.
THE WEEKLY TIMES.
This paper first greeted its readers June 1, 1877, under the name
of '*The Canton Advertiser." That journal was founded by Horace
J. Leigh and Gilbert L. Miller. Its first issue was a five-column
folio, with a circulation of 1,000 copies, which was practically a free
circulation, the nominal sum of 25 cents per year being charged for
subscription. After running for five weeks its columns were found
to be too limited to satisfy the demands of irs patrons, and it was con-
sequently enlarged to a seven-column folio. At that time its sub-
scription price was raised to one dollar per year. It continued this
size for twenty-seven weeks when, owing to its increase of business,
it was again enlarged to its present size, a five-column quarto.
The Advertiser was started lyid conducted as an indepedent journal
so far as it concerned politics or religion for quite awhile, when its
editors were led to believe that if thev would brintj it out as a Re-
publican sheet its prosperity would be assured. At that time it had
a paying list of 1,600 subscribers, having become thus popular
within the short period of one year, ^vhich is unprecedented as far
as journalism in this county is concerned. Its editors and publish-
ers, Leigh & Miller, were induced to step from a non-partisan to
the Republican platform. This step ])roved a disastrous one, and
in place of an increased circulation and greater advertising patron-
age, the result was the opposite. For seven weeks they saw its snbt
scription list diminish and with no hopes of a reaction. People
had taken it because it was not hampered or circumscribed by par-
tisan princi|)les. It was free to ap[)huid or condemn, to advocate or
oppose, to build up or tear down any measure they believed beni-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1003
ficial and just, or injurious or wrong. It remained an advocate of
party principles and measures for only seven weeks, when it again
hung out its old motto of" independence.
Sept. 0, 1871), Chas. W. Kent purchased Mr. Miller's interests in
the Adoerfi-<cr and became a partner of Mr. Leigh. They immedi-
ately changed the name of the paper to The Wccklt/ Times, and
brought it out in a new dress. It' is now equal in appearance to
any journal published in Central Illinois. As to its editorial man-
agement, the large circulation it enjoys and its popularity fully at-
test. The Times is independent, and intends to remain so. Its
editors believe it can exert a greater influence for the public weal
uiuler that banner than it can under any other. They will not be
influenced by party or sect. They advocate such measures, nation-
al, municipal, religious and social, as will best subserve the interest
of the mass of the community regardless of any party, clique or in-
dividual. As such a journal it deserves, as it has, the patronage of
all classes.
Horace G. Leigh, of the firm of Leigh & Kent, editors and pro-
prietors of The Weeklif Times, was born in Hunterdon Co., N.
J., in 1852, and brought to this county in 1854 by his parents,
Ichabod and Caroline (Bryant) Leigh, who followed farming. Mr.
Ichabod Leigh enlisted in the 8()th 111. Vol. Inf. in 18G4, and was
killed at the battle of Franklin, Tenn,, leaving a widow and 6
children, of whom Horace G. was the eldest. Although the family
was greatly dei)endent on him, he obtained a good education, attend-
ing rhe Canton high school nearly two years. At the age of 18 he
entered the Canton Ledger office, learned the printing business, and
in four years was made foreman, which position he held i'or three
years. He then resigned that position to establish, in partnership
with Mr. Miller, the Advertiser. In Dec, 1878, Leigh & Miller
purchased the i)rinting office of the Ij)ava Phoenix, changed its
name to the Ipava Independent, and trebled its circulation in a few
weeks. Then they sold it to A. H. McKeighan, the present pro-
prietor. Mr. Leigh married Miss Catherine E. Brant, at Canton,
Feb. 23, 1875, daughter of Rev. Geo. C. Brant, and they have
two children, — Edith Louise and Charles Toland.
Chds. W. Kent, of the firm of Leigh & Kent, publishers and edi-
tors of The Weekly Times, was born in Richland Co., 111., May 1,
1848. He is the son of John G. and Margaret H. (Gardiner)
Kent. His father was a native of the Buckeye State and died at
Cuba in 18G2. His mother is living in Canton. They came to
Fulton county in 1855, and settled at Cuba, where John G. Kent
kept a hotel until his demise. Chas. W. received a good education
and early in life began battling for himself. At the death of his
ftither his mother gave him his liberty to go and do as he pleased,
and only asked of him one thing: that was "to make what he did
make, honestly." He engaged to work on a farm for a time, and in
1863 entered the Fulton County Ledger office as an apprentice, and
1004 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
worked there until the folUjwino: year, when he enlisted in Co. D,
137th 111. Inf., and went to the front. He was taken .sick at Mem-
phis in July, and lay in the hosi)ital the rest of his term, often at
the point of death. He r^'turned home and when the 151st regt.
was mide up he again enlisted, this time in Co. B. of that regt.
!Mr. Kent was united in marriage Aug. 2G, 1869, to Mrs. Marv L.
(Eastwood) Rriekle. They hvLW 3 children : Leon U. E., Henry
Elmer and Lillie May.
Mr. K. conducted the Family Favorite in Columbia, Tenn., for
a time, and has been actively engaged more or less in the printing
business for many years.
THE STREAM OF LIGHT.
The Stream of Light, one of the latest additions to the newspapers
of the 0(Hinty, has rapidly gained a foothold and takes rank with the
older and more widelv known journals of the county. It is a
seven-column folio and filled with local and general news, discus-
sions upon the political, financial and social issues of the country
thnt agitate the public mind, and a general misceUany of excellent
and instructive reading matter.
This paper, or rather the material of the office, was moved from
Lewistown, where it had been used in the -office of the Lewistown
Union. G. A. Hyde moved the office to Ipava in 1.S74, and started
the Fulton Press. This paper soon fell into the hands of a Mr.
Flake, since deceased, who changed its name to the Fulton Phoenix
and conducted it for a time in that village, when he moved it to the
enterprising and growing town of Astoria. Owing to Mr. Flake's
failing health the enterprise proved unsuccessful under his manage-
ment, and in 1877 it was ])urchased by Leigh & iNIiller, who subse-
quently started the Canton Advertiser, the former of whom is
senior editor of The Weekly Times. ISIr. Flake was an excellent
writer. His editorials were able, and his locals characterized by a
rich vein of humor which ])ervadcd almost all of them.
Messrs. Leigh &: Miller returned the office to Ipava, and changed
the name from the Fulton Phoenix to Ipava Independent. These gen-
tlemen conducted the paper for a period of two months, when they
sold the entire establishment to Mr. A. H. McKeighan. This gen-
tleman inimediately changed its name to The Sfreain of Light, and
has continuetl as both editor and proj)rictor since.
Mr. McKeighan has been one of the leading advocates for the
measures and principles of the Greenback party, and no man
throughout Central Illinois has been more zealous in support of
his party principles, and exerted a more ])otent influence than Mr.
^IcKeighan. Since he assummed editorial management of this
journal he has made of it an organ of the Greenback party. The
editorials which weekly appear in the columns of the Light are
able and prove him to be fully posted upon the great and important
financial questions of the day.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1005
The Stream of Light is evidenty appreciated as a local newspaper,
judging from the fair patronage it h|s received both from ad-
vertisers and subscribers. It has a good circulation for a country
paper and it is constantly increasing.
^1. H. McK(i(j/ian, editor and proprietor of The Stream of Light,
was born in New Jersey, August 13, 1835. He was reared upon
a farm and passed his life in agricultural pursuits and teaching
school until he assumed the duties of the editor's chair, Feb, 21,
1879. He has taught school for about twenty, winters, always
meeting with marked success. He came to the State in 1849
with his father, who settled in this county ; was married Dec. 30,
1858, to Sarah Berry, a native of Indiana, and was born in 1846.
Thev have had a flimily of 9 children born to them, only 3 of whom
are living. Mr. McK. possesses considerable ability both as an
editor and a public speaker ; is a man of great influence where he
is known, and is endowed with remarkable energy and perseverance.
AVON, SENTINEL,
The first number of this spicy little sheet was issued March 6,
1879. It is well edited, and Mr. H. J. Herbertz, its editor, is con-
fident of success in his worthy undertaking. He has asked no
favors in the way of donations to establish his little paper, and con-
secpiently the jjcople aj)preciate his services more. No doubt a
happy future awaits this plucky and enterprising gentleman, and if
he only sticks to the Sentinel for a few years, it will become firmly
established as a home journal.
Herman J. llcrheiiz, editor of the Avon Sentinel, was born in
Keithsburg, Mercer Co., 111., June 10, 1857, and is the son of Wm.
and Margaret Herbertz. The former served in the Mexican war.
In 1858, when but an infant, the parents of Herman removed with
him to Ocpiawka, 111., where, in the union schools, he received his
education. In 1873 he removed with his parents to Monmouth,
111.; thence back to 0(piawka in 1870; and early in the year 1879
he came to this county, and on March 6, issued the first number of
the Avon Sentinel, which is a spicy and well edited sheet, and bids
fair for future success. Mr. H. is under obligations to no one for
the estal>lishment of his paptT, as he asked no one for assistance, but
started it with his own means. The pcoj)le appreciate his enterprise
by amply supporting the paper. In })olitics the Sentinel is neutral.
59
CHAPTER XIX.
RAILROADS.
CHICAGO, BURLINGTON & QUINCY RAILROAD. — RUSHVILLE BRANCH.
The Jacksonville & Savanna Railroad was chartered by the Leg-
islature in 1855. It was intended to run from Jacksonville to
Savanna, Carroll county, passing through Liverpool, Canton Far-
mington and Yates City. A great deal of work Mas done on this
line between Canton and Liverpool. That part of the branch of
the C, B. & Q. road 2| miles south of Canton to Farmington was
graded, tied and bridged as the Jacksonville & Savanna Railroad.
That portion of this road from near Canton to Rushville was char-
tered and surveyed as the Peoria ct Hannibal Railroad. We find in
the first number of the Lewistown Democrat a call for a meeting to
be held at Lewistown Thursday, June 19, 1855, for the purpose of
interesting the people in behalf of this road. Meetings were also
held at Farmington and Canton. Canton was not a point named
in the charter of the Peoria & Hannibal road, but it was talked of
running the road two or three miles south of Canton. The Peoria
& Hannibal road was graded from Hollis, Peoria Co., to the south-
ern line of that county, and some work was done at F^tica, in this
county. The labor was done on the Jacksonville & Savanna road
by local subscription, but when the panic of 1857 came upon the
country all M-ork on both lines ceased.
In i861 Mr. James H. Stip]), President and General Agent of
the Jacksonville t^' Savanna RaihH)ad, and Judge Henry L. Bryant,
President and General Agent of the Peoria ct Hannibal Road, en-
tered into contract with James F. Joy and Capt. E. B. Ward, of
Detroit, selling to them, or rather giving them a ])erpetual lease of
that part of both roads upon which work had been done. These
gentlemen represented the ('., B. t\: Q. R. R. Co., and therefore at
that time the road was virtually sold to or placed in the hands of
the C, B. & Q. Co. The contract that Messrs. Stipp and Bry-
ant entered into with these men was that they were to complete the
road and put it in running order. It became evident to Messrs.
Stipp and Bryant and the Directors of the two companies that they
could not build it, and being very desirous of a road, such a con-
tract was made. The C, B. c^- Q! Co. did the work according to
contract, and in June, 1862, the road was completed to Lewistown
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1007
which was as far south as the C, B. & Q. Company agreed to con-
struct it; but in 18G9 it was completed to Rushville.
Fulton county issued bonds for the construction of the Jackson-
ville & Savanna Railroad to the amount of $100,000, and for the
Peoria c*c Hannibal road 8200,000. All these bonds were sold,
and of the §.'500,000 issued all are redeemed except $75,000. A
portion of the bonds issued to the J. & S. were used to buy iron,
and the rails of the C, B. & Q. Railroad from Farmington to
Lewistown were purchased by Fulton county bonds. The entire
grading, tying, bridging and ironing was given to the C, B. & Q.
Railroad on condition that they would build it.
Frank Farwell, of Liverpool, now of Kansas, and Col. A. C.
Babcock of Canton, under the firm name of Farwell & Babcock,
were contractors to bridge, grade and tie the J. & S. road from
Liverpool to Yates City. To these parties, for the work done, the
C., B. & Q. paid $10,000, and a few hundred dollars to other par-
ties, which was all this Road ever paid for the vast amount of work
done upon this route. There were collected on local subscriptions
in this countv for the original roads $200,000, as folloM's : Farm-
ington, $40,1)00; Canton, $100,000; Lewistown, $60,000, and
Liverpool, S20,000.
The railroad track first reached Canton on Friday, May 2, 1862.
This was a gala day for Canton. On that date the first goods that
ever entered Canton by rail were received; they were consigned to
Holmes tt Peck, merchants. The Directors of the J. & S. Road
were Thompson Maj)le, Israel S. Piper, Jason M. Bass, A. C.
Babcock, and W. A. Dickerman, all of Canton, and A. M. Field,
of Farmington; James H. Stipp, President; W. A. Dickerman,
Vice-President, and I. S. Piper, Secretary.
In 1868 ground was broken at Lewistown for the extension of
the C, B. & Q. road to Rushville. The work was pushed rapidly
forward during the summer of 1869, and brought to comj)lcti(>n.
This gave a new impetus to the towns of Vermont and Ipava, the
two principal points on this road southwest of Lewistown. The
depot buildings erected by the com])any at the various towns along
this route are all good, substantial buildings, creditable alike to the
people of the towns and to the liailroad Companv.
Sad Accidoif. — From the day the first locomotive engineer stepped
into the cabin of his engine, opened the throttle and whirled over
the prairies and woodland, until the jiresent day, heroic acts of self-
sacrifice have been ]>crr()rm('d by this faithful and trusted class. The
engineer is always the first one uimn the train who sees the danger
ahead, and in almost every instance might escape, with but slight
injuries at most; yet how' few are there who desert their post until
they have done all in their power to avert the crash and save the
lives of those-who have entrusted themselves in their care! Then,
as it often proves, it is too late to save their own lives. When we
hear of a sad railroad accident, the collision of trains, the wreck of
1008 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
coaches, the loss of life, we ask, " Did the engineer escape ?" and
almost invariably are told, "No; he was killed."
Locomotive engineers as a class have ever proven their fidelity to
the precious charges entrusted to them, often by giving their lives ;
but never in the history of railroad accidents did an engineer prove
his heroism, his devotion to his trust and ingenuity more than did
Engineer Chislon of the C, B. & (^. It was during the autumn
(of 1870, we believe) when the Fulton County Fair was in progress
at Canton, that brave Chislon laid down his life that others might
live. Hundreds of passengers from Lewistown, Ipava and Vermont,
had taken advantage of the cheap rates and visited the fair. This
was one of the most successful seasons during the prosperous period
of that Association, and thousands were in attendance from all points
of the countv and Central Illinois. Evening; arrived and the coaches
on the southern bound train of the C, B. & Q. were packed with
human freight. All was ready, the bell rang, and Engineer Chislon,
fully appreciating the great responsibility, pulled the long train
slowly from the depot, lest some of his passengers would be injured.
On, past the fair grounds the train moved, steadily gaining in
motion. Soon the careful engineer had the train under great
headway. Every one was joyt)us and the laugh and jest arose upon
the pleasant autumn air, even above the clatter of the train. Upon
rounding a curve what should meet the eyes of the faithful engineer,
who had looked steadily ahead with his hand on the throttle, upon
this, his ride into eternitv? On came a heavv frcio-ht train at e:reat
speed. Both trains were within a few hundred feet of each other
before the danger was discovred. A collision could not be avoided,
for it took but a moment for the engines to come together, yet
the work of saving hundreds of lives was performed in a twinkling.
The brave and thoughtful Chilson adopted the only jiossible plan to
save his cargo of human beings and executed it instanter. He ordered
his fireman to detach the engine from the coaches and then jump for
his life. Both duties were performed with great celerity. Then
Chislon, fearless of death, opened the throttle wide and with his
engine dashed ahead to meet the oncoming train, that it might be
checked and thus prevent it from wrecking his coaches. The crash
of the engines as they shattered each other was the first intimation
the ]iassengers had of the imminent danger they were in.
^^'hen the steam and smoke of the wrecked engines cleared away
the remains of engineer Chislon were found, and with grateful
hands tenderly carried away and cared for. He had saved the pas-
sengers of his train, but it cost him his life. It is supposed that ere
he had performed every service that he could toward saving his train
the engines collided and he was ushered into eternity.
The engineer and fireman of the freight train escaped by jump-
ing from their engine. Mr. Chislon left a widow and a small
family of children to mourn his loss, besides thousands of grateful
friends. May the memory of this illustrious hero never be forgot-
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1009
ten, for no man ever did more to save the lives of hundreds of the
citizens of this county than he, and none ever performed a greater
service more heroically and at a greater cost.
C, B. & Q. R. R. — QUINCY BRANCH.
The main line of the C, B. & Q. which runs from Galcsburg to
Quiucy, enters tiiis county at section 5, Union townshij), and makes
its exit at section 30 near the town of Avon, which is on this road.
This branch of the road was built as the Northern Cross Rail-
road. The enterprise was agitated as early as 1851, and by 1856
the road was built. Connections wore made with the Central Mili-
tary Tract Railroad for Chicago. Shortly afterward these two roads,
with the Peoria & Oquawka, fell into the hands of the Chicago,
Burlington & Quincy Railroad Company. This is one of the chief
railroad lines in the United States.
C, B. & Q. R, R. — ST. I.OUIS DIVISION.
This road was built in 1870 as the Rockford, Rock-Island & St.
Louis Railroa<l. It is well known that contests by different towns
for railroads have often been protracted and severe ; especially was
this so in earlier days, but there never was perhaps a greater contest
between rival towns for a line of railroad than there was for the R.,
R-I. & St. L. R. R. Many years prior to the construction of this
road the company obtained a charter and much work was done on
the line from Beardstown, passing through Rushville to Macomb.
For years the work was abandoned, and unid 1860 tiio enterj)rise
was not revived. At that time the citizens of Rushville and Ma-
comb became greatly interested in tiie road and desired it completed.
Great interest was manifested all along that route, which subse-
quently was known as the Macomb and Rushville route. During
the summer and autumn of 1869 tiie citizens of Astoria, Vermont
and Table Grove became desirous of a railroad; and as much par-
leying was done by the leading men on the Macomb and Rushville
route, a proposition was made by some of the leading and enter-
prising citizens of the eastern route, principally of Astoria, to the
officials of the R., R-I. & St. L. R. R. for the construction of this
road from Beardstown through Browning, Frederick, Astoria, Ver-
mont and Table Grove to Bushnell. The citizens through this
county and at Bushnell took great interest in the enterj)rise and
])ushed their claim with the greatest energy. The contest between
Rushville, Industry and ^lacoml) and Astoria, Vermont, Table
Grove and Bushnell, ])roved a fierce one in the extreme ; but the
men of Fulton county along the latter route proved to be the
sharper, shrewder business men and out-gencraled the leadinglights
of Macomb and Rushville. It was decided bv the companv as the
• 1 »
more favorable route and the one which would prove the most re-
munerative, to accept the offer made by the citizens of West Fulton
1010 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
countv. Work was conimenccfl on the line in December, and by
June 1, hSTU, ears passed over the road. The proposition was re-
ceived from the officials of this road in November, 1869, that if
they would raise §300,000 from Frederick to Bushnell, the road
would be built through Fulton county instead of through Mc-
Donough and Schuyler counties. This amount was readily voted.
Astoria township led the van with SoO,000. The town of Astoria,
which at that time was not so large by 500 population as it is to-day,
gave S'10,000; Woodland township, which the road does not touch,
gave §15,000; Vermont §24,000; Eldorado township, McDonough
countv, SG,000; and Farmers' township §35,000. Of the very
large subscription made by Astoria township, it not only has paid
its interest promptly but has reduced the principal $15,000. The en-
terprising town of Astoria has liquidated one-half the amount sub-
scribed, and the interest on all of it has ever been paid with prompt-
ness.
This road seemed to prosper for a time, but on account of the
vast amount of money expended in its construction and the mis-
management of the road afterwards, it proved to be a very unprofit-
able investment to the stockholders. The rolling stock, which at
first was all new, without repair or attention soon got into bad con-
dition ; the road-bed was neglected, and the entire line came into
disrepute. In 1876, however, the C., B. & Q. R. R. Co. purchased
it and gave it the name of the St. Louis Division of the C, B. & Q.
R. R. The road-bed was immediately put in repair, new rolling
stock provided, and to-day it is one of the best roads in the State of
Illinois.
TOLEDO, PEORIA & WARSAW RAILWAY.
This railway crosses the county in a line almost directly east
and west, and is the principal railroad of Fulton county. It seems
more especially identified with the interests of this county than any
other road, and the people along the route take a commendable local
pride in its welfare. The T., P. tt W. is one of the principal ar-
teries by which the produce of the Northwest is transported to the
seaboard. It is the most direct route for the people of Fulton
countv to reach the thriving and growing city of Peoria. Not only
is it the best route to that city, but it is the cheajiest and quickest
route to Chicago. It connects with the famous old Illinois Central
at Gilraan, and the T. P. & W. coaches are whirled on into the
Garden City without change or delay. This is also by far the best
route to Burlington and Keokuk and the West. A branch leaves
La Harpe from the Warsaw line for these cities, and one goes
through in much less time and at cheaper rates than by any other
available road. At one time, like most newly builded roads, it fell
into disrepute ; but under its present management it has taken rank
wiih the largest roads of the country. Its road-bed is level, well
ironed and smooth, and its rolling stock, both freight cars and
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HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. lOlo
coaches, is equal to that run by the oldest and most prosperous of
roads.
The T., P. & W. Ry. Co. is a consolidation of the Toledo, Peoria
& Warsaw Railway Company and the Mississippi & Wabasli Rail-
road Company, the former of which was incorporated Feb. 14, 1863,
and the latter Feb. 1(3, 1863. These two companies were consolid-
ated Dec. 1, 1865, and the entire road between the State line and
Warsaw was put in operation Oct. 14, 1868, The Burlington
branch, from La Harpe to Burlington, was opened in November,
1871.
The first work on the T., P. & W. through this county was done
by the M. & W. R. R. This road passed through Canton and
Cuba, its western terminus at Carthago. Some work was done be-
tween Cuba and Spoon river; from Bushnell west to Carthage
much work was done under the management of this company.
From Carthage to Warsaw the road was completed and put in oper-
ation. After the charter was obtained, a special act of the Legis-
lature was passed dividing the road in this State into the Eastern,
Western and Central Divisions, for its construction and management.
Peoria was not a point on tliis road at that time; it crossed the Illi-
nois river at Pekin. From Pekin east it was known as the Eastern
Division, from Pekin to Bushnell as the Central, and from Bush-
nell to Warsaw as the Western. Each division was a sort of inde-
pendent organization. Thompson Maple, of Canton, and a Mr.
Buell, had a contract for the construction of the Central Division of
the road, or that part between Pekin and Bushnell, and Mr. Sample,
of Keokuk, built the Western Division.
The total length of the road is 238 miles; sidings, etc., 29 miles.
Of this number 34 miles are in Fulton county.
Connections: — At State Line with P., C. & St. L. Railway, at
Watseka C. & E. I. Railway; at (Jilman with L C. and G., C. & S.
Railways; Chenoa, with C. ct A. Railway; at El Paso with I. C.
Railway (main line) ; at Peoria with P. & R. I., P., P. & J., C, R.
I. & P., and C, B. & Q. Railways; at Bushnell with St. Louis
Division and main line of the C, B. & Q. Railways; at Burlington
with C, B. & Q., B. & C. R. and M. & B. and B. & S. \V. Rail-
ways; at Keokuk with DesMoines Valley Railway.
CHAPTER XX.
MISCELLANEOUS.
THE CANTON & LIVERPOOL PLANK-ROAD COMPANY.
Prior to the days of railroads in this part of the State plank
roads and turnpikes were built on the main traveled routes to the
principal towns, generally those situated upon the river. The Can-
ton & Liverpool Plank Koad was started from Liverpool to Canton
in 1850. The road was constructed principally hy Canton mer-
chants, business men at Liverpool, and farmers in the vicinity of
the road. The distance from the Public Square in Canton to Liver-
pool was 13 miles, about IJ niiles of which is bottom land. The
road-bed was graded 16 feet wide on the top, and the plank track
was about 8 feet wide, laid uj)on one side of the road-bed. The
plank was 2x6 inches and laid upon square oak stringers. The
plank road was just wide enough for one wagon, and iu passing, one
vehicle would have to turn out upon the dirt road. There were
three toll gates arranged along the line at different places for the
purpose of collecting toll, which was so much per mile. One of
these was located one mile south of Canton, one three miles further
south, and one at Liverpool.
The Canton & Liverpool Plank Road Comj)any did the grading
under the immediate supervision of the Directors of the Company.
Thompson Maple furnished the lumber and jnit it down. Ho built
a saw-mill about three miles from Liverpool for the purpose of saw-
ing the plank for this road. The " slai) town " which originated by
the construction of this mill still survives, and is known as Maple's
Mill, which is on sections 10 and 11 , Liverpool township. The total
cost of this ])lank road was ?4(),()0(). It did not prove profitable to
the company and but one dividend was ever declared, and this was
when the road was in good order and no repairs were needed during
the season. The Company got into debt and made an assessment to
relieve this embarrassment, which some of the stockholders failed
to pay. It became greatly indebted to Thomson Maple for repairs.
As this indebtedness was never liquidated it was sold some years
afterwards to satisfy the claimants, when Mr. Maple bid it in, took
up the plank and put it to other uses. The line was run for about
six years, and was the only ]>lank road ever constructed in the
county.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 10J5
There was a dike thrown up from Copperas Creek over tlie bot-
tom for a distance of about 2 miles. Copperas Creek Landi>ig was
only 10 miles from Canton, whereas Liverpool was 13 miles ; and as
this was a free road, it gave Copperas Creek Landing great advantage
over the Liverpool Landing, and proved detrimental to the plank
road. Had all the business of the country immediately interested
been carried over the plank roajl it might have proven a profitable
enterprise, both to the stockholders and to the people along the
route; but this dike was constructed by merchants, or men who had
warehouses at Co])peras Creek Landing, for the ])urpose of attracting
trade to that point. Being nearer to Canton and reaching a good
coal district, the farmers preferred Copperas Creek Landing to Liver-
])00l.
COUNTY-SEAT CONTEST.
The question of moving the county seat from Lewistown to Can-
ton began to be agitated in July of 1878. On Monday and Tuesday,
August 5 and 6, the county was canvassed by men from Canton
and other places, for signers to a petition praying for an election on
the removal of the connty seat to Canton. There were secured to
this petition 7,131 names. It was presented to the Probate Court
Sept. 18, 1878, and the Judge called an election to vote for or against
the removal, fixing the time a week later than the regular Novend)cr
election. The canvass was begun and carried through with the
utmost vigor by both Canton and Lewistown. Indeed efforts, un-
precedented almost in the history of county-seat fights, — which are
known to engender feelings more intensely bitter than any other
public contests, were made in this canvass. That both Canton and
Lewistown, with their allies, put forth tremendous effyrts, we ])resume
will not be denied by any person. Both cities exerted themselves
almost to their utmost, one to gain what it had not, the other to re-
tain what it already had. Speakers were in every school-house ad-
vocating one side or the other. Canton sent out her Silver Cornet
Band and Lewistown a martial band. Every available man in
both cities was used. Farmers residing in the vicinity brought
in their teams and hitched them around the scjuares ready for the
use of any j)erson who might desire to go out in tlie iiitcr(\st
of the res])ective cities. The various papers throughout the
county were filled with lengthy editorials, local squibs, slings,
etc., on the sul)iect. Here we will remark that pajiers have
seldom advocated or oj)j)(»sed a measure with so much force, ability
and energy, as the newspapers of Fulton county rljd this proposition
during the exciting camj)aign. Circulars and posters were j)rinted
by the thousand and sent over the county by both sides. We can-
not even give a synopsis of the arguments, prt)mises and denials
made by both ])arties, further than to briefly state the princij)al induce-
ment Canton offered to the peoj)h' if they would give her the county-
seat, and those made by Lewistown if they would let it remain with
lOlG HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
her. Canton offered to the connty acourt-honsc worth not less than
$40,0o0. Tlie })hnis and sprcitieations were the same as used in the
construction of the court-house at Waukcgan, 111., large cuts of
which appeared in some of the papers. This building, with jail
attached, was to be when coinj)leted and ready for occujjancy pre-
sented to the county. Lewistown offered to make the Circuit and
County Clerks' offices fire-proof, at an expense of not less than S2,000
(which she did at a much greater outlay), and to fix up the old build-
As illustrating the efforts made to gain votes upon either side, we
relate the following incidents, which actually occurred. We do it,
not condemning either party, or any one, but as good-naturedly
showing how much votes were prized, and how great the efforts
sometimes put forth to secure them :
Shortly prior to the county-seat contest a great temperance revival
had been held in one of the river townships, and this noble cause
found many converts among the good people residing in that district,
heretofore anything but staunch temperance folk. They had be-
come teetotalers of pronounced and radical jirinciples. It so hap-
pened, too, that the majority of this community thought the removal
of the county-seat advisable and should vote accordingly. Lewis-
town had exerted her infiuenee in the shape of arguments, but,
seemingly, to no purpose, and the entire neighborhood was likely to
go solidly for Canton, when by rights, owing to location, as Lewis-
town thought, it should be given to her. It would not do to let
them go in that way. Something must be done, and a few Lewis-
tonians proved themselves equal to the emergency. One night a
buggy was filled with jugs of whi.sky at Lewistown and driven into
this township. .The newly made and enthusiastic temperance men
were called from their slumbers, and in that quiet, confidential tone
to which politicians so often modulate their voice and deportment
about convention or election time, they were told that, knowing
them to be strongly in favor of the removal they had brought them
a jug of good old liourbon for them to use among the "boys" in the
interest of Canton. They visited many of the leading men in the
same way, leaving or offering to leave a jug of whisky " in the in-
terest of Canton." Their j)hin worked like a charm. It was one
of the shrewdest schemes of the camj)aign, and none more effectual.
The next day these leading men nudged each other in a confidential
got-something-to-tell-you manner, and each related the experiences
of the previous night, which, as was intended, turned them against
Canton. They solemnly resolved to have nothing to do with men
who would so grossly in^sult them, knowing of their recent strong
temperance profession ; and the entire neighborhood came over in a
body for Lewistown.
On a farm within a few miles from one of the towns of the county,
(neither Canton or Lcwit?town) were two men, one in favor of the
removal of the county-seat, the other thinking that things were well
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1017
enough as tlioy were. Tlicy had reasoned among themselves and
had manv animated discussions. At last the Lewistown man seemed
to get the bettor of his Canton friend, a cousin, we believe. At
least he so far converted him as to cause him to give up all notion
of voting for Canton. He would remain at home and work, and not
vote at all. This was indeed a great victory his friend had achieved,
and so jubilant was he that he went to the town in Cj[uestion and re-
lated the intentions of his cousin not to vote. This was unfortunate
for him, for voters were at a premium and no efforts would be
spared to bring a delinquent to the polls where one was known to
be. It was noised about that Farmer was not going to vote.
That would not do ; so thought a prominent editor and a leading
town official, who inclined toward Canton. These gentlemen im-
mediately put off in their buggy for Farmer 's fine farm.
They found the gentleman, who had just driven into a corn-field
with a two-horse wagon and began to gather a load of corn. They
pressed him to go back to town with them and vote, but no ; he
was obstinate : din't care about going. Anyway he would not go
until he got his load of corn gathered and that would make it too late
for him to vote. The editor proposed to the alderman that they join in
and help gather the load of corn. He readily assented, their coats
were thrown off and "ye editor" and official were soon throwing
corn right and left. At last the large wagon box was filled and
they thought Farmer would start right to town with them ;
but no ; he loved to see his visitors work too well. He drew the
load of corn to his barn and there made them shovel the cereal into
the bin. Thev never flinched once, however, for thev were after
a "vote," whi('ii they finally got.
At Farmington, which is near the Knox and Peoria county lines,
there was a full corps of workers from both Canton and Lewistown
on election day. It is said they had an abundance of liquors in quart
and pint bottles. Of course there were two kinds: One would show
its drinkers the importance of removing the county-seat, the other
would be equally forcible in proving the importance of letting it remain
where it was. The parties who pretended to represent the two cities
Canton and Lewistown, at Farmington, were comparatively strangers
there, and of course did not know the men who lived in the adjoin-
ing counties of Knox and Peoria; and it may be remarked that an
unusual number of these gentlemen were in Farmington upon elec-
tion day. One of them would be cornered, quietly presented
with a quart bottle of the ardent and then urged to vote according
to the views of the donor, when, to the chagrin of the " worker," he
would cooly reply : " Oh ! I live in Knox county," or, " I can't
vote for I'm a resident of Peoria county."
A week after the regular November election, after a most exciting
campaign, the voters of the county decided not to remove the
county-seat to Canton. It required a majority of two-thirds of all
the voters in the county to carry the measure. There were cast for
removal 4,785 ballots, against, 4,349, thus defeating the measure.
1018 HISTORY OF FULTON COfjNTY.
MATRIMONIAL.
One of the very first items recorded in the original record of this
county was a certificate of marriage. Since then matrimony has en-
joyed a long and prosperous "run." It is true, at times a slight
dullness prevailed. The market fluctuated, as it were. The great
financial panics which have brought hard times upon tlie country at
diiferent periods have proven highly disastrous to matrimony. It
will be noticed that in the following table the years immediately
succeeding the great crashes, the number of marriage licenses issued
have fallen off remarkably. For instance, in 1838, the year after
the great financial crash of 1837, when the internal improvement
system of the State collapsed,there were only 88 licenses issued, whereas
the previous year there were 126. As the county regained its for-
mer prosperity the number of marriages increased, until 1854, the
year preceding the pressure of hard times of the j)revious year.
1855, '56 and '57 proved prosperous seasons for matrimony, but
1858, the following year after the crash of 1857, the decrease in num-
ber of marriages is quite perceptible. From 1860 till the close of
the war and tlie boys came marching home, matrimony waned. In
1865, '6() and '67, however, the figures show an unprecedented sea-
son of prosperity in matrimony. Again after our last panic, that of
1873, we find a noticeable decrease.
In 1823, the fir.-jt year after the county was organized, no marriage
licenses were issued. In lieu thereof, however, the officiating
preachers or justices of the peace had an article certifying to the
marriage filed in the office of the County Clerk. The first certificate
thus recorded was for the marriage of Thomas L. Ross and Susan
Nye, in July, 1823. The first coujile ever married in Chicago was
when that citv was under the iurisdiction of this countv. Thev
were Alexander Woolcott and Eleanor Kinzie, daughter of the
famous John Kinzie, the first settler of Chicago.
In primitive times, when money was seldom seen among the pio-
neers, coon-skins were used as a medium of trade. Marriage licenses
were often secured by the brave young pioneer boys with coon-skins.
At one time Stephen Dewey, County C'lerk, had as many as 250
coon-skins on hand which he had received ibr licenses. Garen
Thomi)son |)rocured the license wiiich authorized his marriage with
Susanu Cole in 1828 of Stephen Dewey, ibr which he i)aid him four
coon-skins. He had no money and as coon-skins were considered a
legal-tender, they were readily taken. Nathaniel C. Bordwine was
j)resent at the time. We would infer from this transaction that the
price of a marriage license was ibur coon-skins.
It would ai)j)car that the County Clerk kept a regular "junk shop,"
almost, for besides taking coon skins in payment for official papers
he would receive almost anything. One of the old settlers of Ver-
mont townshi]) had met the girl he resolved to make his bride, and
after the usual arrangements between the willing couple the day
HISTOIIY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1019
r
was set for being; married. The young; man was poor but full of
pluck and energy. He eonld not raise the necessary amount of cash
with which to procure the license, and as there were no coons in his
" neck of the woods," or cl|e he was a poor marksman, he could not
even get the coon skins to trade for a license. Undaunted, however,
he was determined to try another way. He was the happy possessor
of an old bridle. Hanging; this u[)on his arm he made his way to
Lewistown, where he procured the necessary license and tendered
the bridle in payment thereof The county official looked over the
well worn article with some hesitancy, but soon bid the young man
to depart in peace.
Rev. Wm. Rutledge, a pioneer Methodist preacher now living in
Sangamon county, relates the following interesting incidents with
respect to marriages : After the ceremony he performed on one oc-
casion the groom asked him hon' mucii he charged. Mr. R. replied
that he made no charge, but the young man could pay what lie
chose. The groom took from his pocket three silver quarters, and
holding them out in his open hand, said, "There: take till you are
satisfied." One young man who Mr. Rutledge married had no
shoes of his own fit for his wedding, and therefore borrowed his
mother's shoes for the occasion. He agreed to i)ay for the ceremony
when he dug his potatoes. ^Another benedict j)aid Mr. Rutledge $5
at the time of the ceremony, and a year or so afterward the matri-
monial alliance had turned out so well that he handed the clergy-
man ^5 more. Mr. Ruthnlge relates the case of a Dutchman who
went to Lewistown, obtained his license, got married, and on his
way home in the wagon he recollected that he did not have the
license with him, and suddenly exclaimed: "Och! I forgot mine
license; I pays mine money for him; I goes back and gets him."
Of course the parson kept the license.
There are some quaint documents on file in the matrimonial de-
partment of the County Clerk's oftice. Often when a young man
went after a license the Clerk woidd not give it uidess he knew the
girl was of proper age and her i)arents did not object to the marriage.
Among the letters we take the following verbatim :
June the 23: This is to show that thire is now oposition in this
raach this I give from under my hand this 23 June 1832 Mary
Brown.
Henry Hampton
to
Parmelia Ann Brown.
hereby i do approbate and Consent to this marriage and do give
my daughter mary tanner to John Cammel, Roda Tanner, seal.
sir i have given my con.sent that levi jewel shll have my daughter
beulah. • Wm. Bush,
Elizabeth Bush.
1020
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
The following table gives the number of marriage licenses issued
each vear since 18*24:
YEAR.
1824..
1825.
1826.
1827.
1828.
1929.
1830.
1831.
1832.
1833.
1834.
183.5.
1836.
1837..
1838.
1839.
1840.,
1841..
1842..
1843..
NO. ISSVED. YEAR.
3
9
8
17
22
11
38
26
37
47
36
83
126
88
136
135
125
134
164
1844.
1845.
1846.
1847.
1848.
1849.
18.50.
1851.
1852.
1853.
1854.
1855.
18.56.
1857.
1858.
NO. ISSIEV.
1859.
I860.
1861.
1862.
146
171
179
188
201
234
240
277
234
243
223
333
360
358
327
386
311
294
274
YEAR.
1863
1864
1865
1866
1867
1868
1869
1870
1871
1872
1873
1874
1875
1876
1877
1878
1879 to Oct. 17.
NO. ISSUED.
248
301
376
4.50
405
335
390
340
357
328
373
324
339
343
373
363
278
Total 13,148
SCHOOL STATISTICS.
Hon. James P. Sl.\de,
Supt. of Public Inntruction ;
De.\r Sir:— I have the honor to submit this my Annual Report, hoping that
you may find it accurate and satisfactory.
The Board of Supervisors in their wisdom saw proper to limit the time of
the County Superintendent (100 days each year) ; heme I have but little or no
supervision over the schools in this county.' This neglect of visiting the schools
is the very best of reason why our schools are not in a better condition ; also
the reason why that very many of the 3,381 children who are eligible to attend
school do not attend. A majority of our experienced and best teachers have
left this county and our schools for the past few years have wofuUy retrograded,
from the fact that most of the schools outside of the towns arc iii the hands of
the young and inexperienced, and there is no one who has the time or author-
ity to instruct, or to drill in the great art of teaching, that would better enable
teachers to asume the va.st resposibiiity, so that they would discharge every
duty in a conscientious manner and with a pure and honest purpose.
Fulton is a large county; much work is required, and even the ordinary
labor cannot be performed in the time granted by the Supervisors. To dis-
charge my offifial duty I was employed fifty-five days over the time, and of
course all those days of over time shall be gratuitious.
Now from the above statement it can lie easily seen why it is that "Teachers'
Institutes" have ceased to meet, and -'Township Drills" are no longer prac-
ticed. As the School Laws have impo.sed a duty which is mandatory upon the
County Superintendent — tliat of examining Township Treasurers' books, notes,
etc. — and as he is required to report the result of this investigation to the
Township Trustees, I think that surely the Board of Supervisors will at their
next session grant as much more time at least as would be necessary to the
accomplishment of this important work.
All the High Schools of the county are reported Only one acting under
special charter, the other two are district graded schools.
Respectfullv submitted,
Yours truly, H. J. BENTON,
County Supt.
A table giving the School Statistics in full will be found on the next page.
HISTOKY OF FULTON COUNTY.
1021
to to M to tN3 to ►
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CO*-*.IOCnCCtOC04^-OCOi-'lOi-'t0 4^0i4^4i.*-tOCOtOOiC2
No. Malesnnder21.
GO
^ioc;"^oc;» — o;coxxcoo;c;0'Co-c;c»cc^io02 0'0
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CO--J--C"i+-i:OC:i*^tOOH-io4-4- — m;C*-OiOi — COCOi— '^J
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No. of Females un-
COC04---*>.COtOtOhti.00COi-'i—'1— 'tOC0*'Oi>*'C0lOC0CCO'O
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Total No. of Per-
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Total No. of Per-
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No. of School Dis-
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tricts.
50
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No. of Pupils En-
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No. Female Teach-
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Wap'S Paid Male
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male Teachers.
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Lowest Monthly
O CO O O" O' 4- CD C!' O O en C Oi C;< O O en O C; en C: Cn Oi O C!i
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W'ukcs Paid Fe-
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male Teachers.
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00
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en
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Total Expenditures
CO
CO 4». Ci 4- I V CO — 1 -:. — c; X ^1 CO c: c: :i.' P ^i -i .-; ?? r^T 'i r: 3£
to ■- X i' 1 - — ' i' X ~ lo Ci' CO c; X c: c; 10 CO o to ic to co ~ o
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X o o X ^ CO 4 — -1 r: o X i' 4- CO — c; o. — ^1 — ii ic 4 — ^i co
ing June 30, 1879.
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Oi — CO CO O ^) O CO C: -^ to en CO ^I ^1 O X — ' X — ' ^J X 10 to ^J
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1022
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
TABLE OF DISTANCES IN FULTON COUNTY.
In onler to find tho distance from one town to another, find the
narae.s of the respective towns, one in eacii list. F(^r instance, if
we wish to learn the distance it is from Fairview to Vermont, we
trace down the list of names npon the left till we come to Vermont;
then find Fairview in the upper list, and trace the columns of fig-
ures that each of these names are in until they meet, which will
indicate the distance. We thus find it is 36 miles from Vermont,
to Fairview.
Name of Place.
o
O
>
lllli
pS C^' W ri -<
Marietta.
Bernatlotte.
Table Grove.
Vermont.
Astoria.
Summum.
Otto
Havana.
Liverpool.
Ipava.
10
12
9
/
101017 18 26
25 25 3.3 37 34 28 24 25
12 29
Ipava 12 10 20 20 39 27 26 10 26 12 4 61014 8 816
Liverpool 10 16 11 13 23 25 3120 40 28 20 29 30 30 261815,
Havana 101813 20 35 30 33 24 44 27 20 22 23 2017 9
Otto 9 16 17 18 35 28 31 16 35 21 12 13 15 12 6
Summum 14 22 2223 39 14 37 14 34 16 12 13 8 6l
Astoria 20 27 28 31 44 33 44 20 43 24 14 11 7-
Vermont 2p 23 28 27 47 35 38 19 37 18 12 5
Table Grove 18 20 23 24 43 31 33 1-133 111 8
Bernadotte 1012 16 16 35.23 22^ 6 22 s'
Marietta '18121810 42 2314! 6 14
: r I '
Avon • 32 24 32 26 27,16 9 20l
Smithfield 11 6 11 11 30 17 11
EUisville 23 15 22^18 18| sj
Fairview 20 11 15 10 10
Farmington.u 25.24,2018
oo
Civer ;10
Bryant 7
Cuba 8
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1023
POPULATION.
The following table gives th(,' })opuhition of Fulton County by
townships for 1850, '55, '60 and '70, with the increase. Where a
clash appears before a number in the columns of increase it signi-
fies a decrease in the population of the township. We give an esti-
mated population of the county by townships for the ])resent year
in the last column but one. We base our estimate u})on the school
census of 1879, and we believe it is not far from correct, although
we do not claim it as official or as perfect, but think it will be found
approximately so.
=> ' LS S g
o8 ; 2* S S A
TOWNSHIPS. 'Z 1 - - »•
H § c 5 -a
- - 0)
Populu
U03
191
2088
524
956
126
(1(58
226
888
555
1544
628
r_'8<)
824
e 2
Hi
W
Astoria 1213 1403 191 1678 275 2120 442 2706 586
Vermont 1564 2088 524 1964-124 22S9 325 2204 -85
Farmers' 830 956 126 9,7 1 1219 262 1252 33
Harris 442 668 226 908 240 1029 121 1150 121
Lee 33:5 888 555 1141j 253 1298 157 1348 50
Union 916 1544 628 1062 118 192:'. 261 2036 103
Woodlan.l 965 1289 324 1448 159 1602 154 1890 288
Pleasant 964 1128 164 1406; 178 169(1 284 20:!0 340
Bernadotte 778 870 92 1557| (587 1254 -:;03 1772 518
Cass 643 810 167 908 98 1294 386 1582 288
Deerlield 544 618 74 775 157 908 133 1020 112
Ellisvillo... 410 476 66 605 128 659 54 644 -15
Yonns Hickory 404 538 134 643 105 793 150 858 65
Kerton •" 1 308 'Am 58| 592 226 520 -72 654 134
Isabel I 539 624 85 738 114 728 -10 923 195
Waterfonl ' 265 338 73] 453 115 457 4 581 124
Lewistown 1515 1787 272 2308 517 2953 645 3312 359
Putman ' 1025 1162 137 1335 173 1676 341 1894 218
.Tosluia.. 879 1000 121 1170 170 1194 24 1236 42
Fairvievv ' 1047 1349 301 l:'.73 24 1319 -54 1266 -53
Liverpool. 674 919 245 1310 391 1350 40 1424 74
Buckheart 924 1061 137 1274 213 1590 316 1896 306
Canton 2579 2950 371 3590 640 4492 902 4888 496
L.Farniington 1420 1813, 3!t:5 2157 344 2107 -50 2146 39
Banner 700 SO:*, 103 122() 423 1110-116 1340 230
Orion 527 53.0 31 823 293 1085 262 1300 215
Total I 204081 27978 5570| 340016042 38659 4658 43452 4793
THE WEALTH OF FTLTON COUNTY.
Nothing can better show the wealth, importance and standing of
Fulton county than a comparison of assessments with other counties
of the State. Such a comparison, which is by no means unfavor-
able to this county, will clearly set forth the resources of Fulton
60
1024 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
county as in relation to other counties of Illinoi.'^. It is not our desire
or intention to make a commendable representation when not sub-
stantiated by facts. We give nothin<r but authentic fi<rures, such as
are tiled with the State Auditor from each county, and therej'ore •
may be relied upon as bold, stubborn facts.
As compared with other counties in the State, Fulton is sixth in
area, containiufi; 549,973 acres. The five counties having a larger
acreage, in their order are, McLean, La Salle, Iroquois, Livingston
aud Champaign. There are 305,243 acres of land improved, and
244,730 unimproved, making 56 per cent, of all lands improved.
The total valuation of lands in Fulton (1878) was 88,294,922,
which is excelled by the following counties: Cook, La Salle, Mc-
Lean, Sangamon, Adams, Henry and Knox. The total valuation of
personal property, lands and town lots of this county was 313,146,-
519, which w'as excelled by twelve counties in the State. In 1852
the value of lands of this county was 82,012,505, exceeded only by
Cook, Adams, Jo Daviess, Madison and Sangamon. The total value
of real and personal property for 1852 was 84,954,068, which was
sixth. The value of the real and personal property of Fulton
county had increased in the twenty-six years from that amount to
813,146,519, an average increase in wealth of 8300,000 per year.
The three items included in the above statement, personal property,
town lots and lands, will give a fair idea of the wealth of the
county. But as it is not customary to make the assessment on a
full cash valuation, we must, in order to fully show the wealth of
the county add the per cent, deficit. The assessment shows only
about sixty per cent, of the value ; therefore, upon this basis, which
is by no means an exaggeration, we find the real wealth of Fulton
county to be 821,910,086, an average of 8500 to every man, woman
and child in the county.
In Fulton county there are 15,975 horses, while there are ten
other counties having a larger number. In 1852 there were 9,172
horses in this county, which exceeded every county in this great
State by several hundreds. While the increase in the number of
horses has not kept pace with some other counties, the value has.
Fulton county boasts of having horses as fine as can be found
in any county in the State. There are fortv-eight counties that have
a larger number of mules than Fulton. These are principally
southern counties, where mules are in more general use than through-
out the central and northern ])art of the State. Of these animals
there were in 1878, 1,139. In this county there were 16,180 sheep,
excelled only by Lake, McHenry, McLean, Vermillion and Macou-
p.n. As far back as 1852 there were 18,551 sheep in the county,
whijh shows that sheep-raising has l)een ujion the decline. In num-
ber o/ hogs this county is excelled only by Bureau, Henry, Living-
ston and Knox. There were here in 1878, 72,762 hogs, almost
double the number there were twentv-six years ago.
There are in Fulton county 6,193 carriages and wagons. In but
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1025
ten other counties is there a larger number. In 1852 there were
3,488. There are within the borders of the county only 9 billiard
tables, while there are 71 counties having a larger number. Take
into consideration the uses these tables are generally put to, we find
Fulton stands in the front rank as a moral county in this respect.
In point of number of clocks and watches Fulton stands tenth.
She has 4,026. In number of sewing and knitting machines there
are 2,936, while there are eight counties having more. These ma-
chines were not enumerated in 1852, there being none, as we sup-
pose, in the county at that time. There are in the county 235
pianos, being excelled by 19 others. In 1852 there were only 10 of
these instruments in the county. There are but 14 counties having
a larger number of organs and meh)deons, there being 522 in this
county.
For the year 1877 there were sown of wheat in Fulton county
28,440 acres, being excelled by no county in the same latitude or
north. Of corn for the same year there were planted 120,352
acres, there being 13 counties which had a larger acreage of corn.
There were 17,460 acres of oats sown, and 32,937 acres in pastur-
age. There were 5,198 acres in orchards, which is exceeded only
by Knox, Adams, McLean, Champaign, Madison and St. Clair. In
Fulton county the assessment for 1877 showed that there were 154,-
489 acres of Avoodland in the county, which is a greater number of
acres then any county save Clark, Jackson, Hamilton, Jefferson,
White and Wayne, the latter county having more woodland than
any county in Illinois.
There are 102 miles of railroad in Fulton county, being exceeded
by Cook, Edgar, Hancock, Henry, Kane, LaSalle, Livingston,
Logan, Madison, McLean, Peoria, Sangamon, Tazewell, Vermillion,
Whiteside and Will.
FULTON COUNTY AGRICULTURAL SOCIETY, AND THE FULTON COUNTY
FAIR-GROUND ASSOCIATION.
These two organizations are separate, yet closely allied to each
other. The Fair-Ground Association owns the grounds, while the
Agricultural Society, or Board, conducts the fairs. Of the Agricul-
tural Board, Inman Blakaby is President ; C. A. Emry, Secretary ;
John R. Gardiner and S. S. Miller, General Superintendents, and
James Donn, Superintendent of Floral Hall. Of the Fair-Ground
Association John A. Furry is President ; J. R. Randolph, Secre-
tary; H. J. Whitmore, Superintendent, and I. N. Leeper, Calvin
Branson and L. F. Randolph, Directors.
For the early history of the Fulton County Fairs we are indebt-
ed to ]Mr. Swan's History of Canton.
The first agricultural fair held in Fulton county was held at
Canton, on the Hannan Farm, in the fall of 1852. At that time
the Fulton County Agricultural Society had no existence. Some
of the citizens of Canton determined to hold a fair on their own
102() HISTORY OF FUI/rON COUNTY.
account. Meetings were accordingly held, p:round selected, offi-
cers chosen, and all arranw;ements made. The county at larjje
was invited to participate, and the result was (piite a respectable
exhibition. At this fair the Fulton County A^rricultural Society
was brought into existence.
The second and several subsecpient fairs were held first at C'uba,
then at Lewistown, and at \ erniout.
In the fall of 1856, for the second time a fair was held at Can-
ton— this time being the third annual fair of the Fulton County
Agricultural Society. The fair ground on this occasion was located
on South Main street, in what was then known as Wright's pasture,
near the Stroud j)lace. This fair attracted a great crowd of [)eoj>le
for that day, and was a complete success. No admittance fee was
charged, and one enterprising politician improved the occasion to
address the assembled multitude on political to])ics, much to the dis-
gust of the party opposed to him in politics. A ladies' e(piestrian
display was the one memorable feature of the fair, and one of the
fair riders, Miss Lydia Maria Attonetta Shepley, was thrown from
her animal, but recovered her saddle almost instantly, without assist-
ance, and before any of the gallants could reach her with their ])rof-
fers of assistance, amid tiie cheers of the crowd.
Between 185(3 and 186(3 the fairs of the Fulton County Agricul-
tural Society had been held at Lewistown. These fairs had not been
to any considerable extent successful, and in conse([uence the society
was in a languishing condition. In 186(3, the members of the
Society, feeling a determination to make their fairs more successful,
elected a new board of officers and voted to remove the fairs to
Canton.
The citizens of Canton at once to<»k a deep and active interest in
the Society, and set to work in the most praiseworthy manner to
make the fairs not only successful, but to place them in the very front
rank among the county fairs of the United States. A joint-stock
c<»mpany was accordinaly formed, which purchased twenty-five acres
of the Anderson farm, lying in the southeastern angle formed by the
intersection of the brancii of the C\, B, <fcQ. with the T., P. & W.
Railroad. The site selected is on a high level prairie, commanding
a view of a considerable porti<»n of the city, and was a most admi-
rable selection of ground for the ))urpose. This ground was pur-
(ihased independent of the Society, but the grounds were donate 1 to
the Society free of rent for the term of ninety-nine years. The
citizens of Canton and vicinity now subscribed ^5,U(J0 for the purpose
of fencing and the erection of the necessary buihlings, stock stalls,
etc.
The Directors of the Society, recognizing the sj)irit of liberal en-
terprise thus manifested by the citizens of Canton, ajipointed an
executive committee consisting of five persons, residents of Canton,
to su])erintend the erection of buildings, fencing, and making all
necessary arrangements for the fair. This committee consisted of
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1027
Messrs. J. H. McC'all, A. B. Hulit, A. C. Babeock, D. W. Vittum,
jr., and Townsend Atwator. It proceeded at once to business, and
erected a larw substantial and convenient liall, fitly by one hun-
dred feet; an amphitheater capable of seating 1,000 persons, with*
booths for the sale of refreshments underneath ; with all the neces-
sary offices, stables, stock-pens, a fine judges' stand, and prejiarcd a
half-mile track for exhibition ])urp()ses. The Society furnished $o,-
000, and the whole amount was judiciously expended in preparing
these grounds.
From the fair of this year (1866) $4,000 were realized, and thus
the Society was placed u])on a sound financial basis, and Canton fairs
from that time began to be famous.
In 1867 the Society realized S6,0()0 from its fair; in 1868, over
^7,000; in 1869, nearly §9,000. In 1868 another amphitheater was
added, with^a large dining-hall and kitchen attached; additional
sheds for carriages, implements and tools were erected, and large
additions made to the nuud)cr of stalls and stock-pens. In 1869 the
number of entries had reached 2,300, and the fair was one of the
most successful ever held bv any county in the A¥est ; while that of
1870 was even more successful, being in close competition with the
State fair.
The Society got in debt largely and to overcome this a grand
effort was ])ut forth in 1871. Everything was bright and promising
up to th(^ very conuncncement of the fair when that a])j)alling Chi-
cago calamity, the greatest conflagration of the age, entirely frus-
trated the plans of the Society and in s[)ite of the desperate effort
put forth the loss was $5,000. The Society found itself hopelessly
in debt, owing $13,000.
The grounds and fairs arc now under the able management of the
gentlemen first mentioned, is in a ])r(tsperous condition and regain-
ing its former prestige.
THE AVON DISTRICT AGRICULTURAL BOARD.
The Avon District Agricultural Board was organized Sept. 2,
1871. It was called "The Avon Agricultural Society." The
grounds were first used for holding stock sales, whi(!h were done
away with in 1874 or 187o. The first fair was held Sept. 29, ;>0,
Oct. 1 and 2, 1872, with L. F. Ross as President, A. H. Tompkins,
Treasurer, and A. J. Churchill, Secretary. Considering that this
was the inaugural fair, it was a success in every respect. In 1877
the Society changed its name from '' The Avon Ag!-icidtural Society "
to that of " The Avon District Agricultural Boai-d." By so doing
they are entitled to the $100 offered by the State for each successful
fair held within the State. The following are the gross receipts of
each year: 1872, §965.80; 1873, §2,615.96; 1874, 82,461.45;
1875, $2,893.15; 1876,S3,lO0..38 ; 1877, $3,324.42 ; 1878, §2,949.44;
1879, $3,468.
i028 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
The last f.iir was the most suecessfal of all held by this Board.
The gat3 recaipts wzre S1,5S5 ia one d.iy. Tiie Sjciety is entirely
out ot' debt, aud inDre than this, it has a neat little sum in the
treasury. Surely, this is an institution of Nyhich Fulton county
may justly be proud.
EEMINISCENCES.
Wm. H. Smith. Henry Smith, my father, Ayas a natiye of Prus-
sia, and born July 4th, 1777; emigrated to the U. S. aud landed
at Baltimore July 4, 1790, amid the roar and sound of cannon and
music, celebrating the day that gave birth to our National Indepen-
dence. A very short time after landing; here in walking along: some
of the roads in or about Georgetown, some elderly gentleman came
riding by, and a putf of wind blew the gentleman's hat otf and over
the fence; my father jumped the fence, got the hat and gave it to
its owner, upon which the gentleman gave him a suver dollar.
Upon arriving at the inn, father made inquiry who the gentleman
Avas that was so generous and liberal in giving so much for so small
a favor, and was told that it was General Washington.
The first day of May, 1837, I took leave of my old native town,
foot and alone, to seek my fortune in Illinois. I traveled over 200
miles afoot. After I hacl made up my mind to go West my brother-
in-law, George Glassford, concluded to go too, and as he would go
through to Wheeling by stage (no railroads then) and me afoot, we
made calculation on time and distance. We met there, and a steam
boat, Swiss Boy, was laying at the wharf with steam up ; we took
this for Peoria. We reached Peoria in due time and I tried to get
employment in a mill, but there was none there at that time. The
place was quite small. Th^ court-house apparently stood back of
town, and you had to travel quite a distance through the wild
prairie grass, to reach the Blutf. Finally there was an old man by
the name of Davis came to town hunting a few hands to work on a
brick yard, and I engaged to him. After running a while in con-
nection with Mr. D., making brick, a Mr. Hamlin & Knowlan, of
Peoria, bought of Brook ti: Cogswell, of Canton, a steam mill in
Utica, Fulton Co., and knowing I had been hunting a berth in a
mill, hunted me up and finally hired to them. I left the brick yard
on the ■i8th day of August, 1837, took passage on a steam boat, and
came ashore at Copperas Creek Landing. There was a little one-
storv log cabin on the bank, which was used as a kind of a ware-
house; was all the house that I recollect of seeing there then. I
started afoot on the road, meandering along the creek for Utica,
and arrived there about the middle of the afternoon ; took charge
of the steam mill the next morning. Mills were not very plenty
and some that run by water would dry up, consequently our mill
was crowded ; they came a great distance and sometimes waited over
a week for their turn. In a few days Mr. Knowlan came down
looking around to see how things Avere going. I was grinding
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1029
corn, trying; to make good meal, according to mv Virginia stvle,
Mr. K. felt of it, looked up to me and says: " By G— d, Billy,
you will spile these Suckers ; they aint used to such meal as that ;
role it out like h — II." I worked for them in the mill until the
fall of 1838, when nivself and Israel Mvler rented the mill for a
few months, and in the spring of 1839 I rented it alone and fitted
up a distillery that was connected with the mill. On Christmas of
1837 or '38, I don't recollect now, I was invited to a quilting party
at Thomas T. Bybee's, I attended and there became acquainted with
my first and second wives.
In the spring of 1840 Captain Jones Rawalt and myself conclud-
ed to load a cinal-boat that John A. Jones owned, with such pro-
ducts as we had on hand and could obtain, such as pork, grain, pota-
toes, etc., and float down the river until we found sale. After we
had our load aboard Mr. Rawalt sold to me. I reached Alton after
a very long, rough voyage, and sold part of my cargo, and the rest
stored there and visited my old home, but returned to Illinois with-
in a few weeks.
In those days I thought Utica was the greatest place in the
county. We had a steam grist-mill, a distillery, a grist and saw-
mill run by water power, two stores, grocery, coopershops, wagon
shops, blacksmith shops, etc., etc., and we could, and did get up the
biggest Fourth of July celebration in the county ; have the best
liberty pole ; a cannon to burn powder and have a free dinner and
ask all to join with us in the festivities and celebration; Ave had our
uniform company, armed and equipped. AVm. C. Ivillsa was
our Captain. I engaged in mercantile business there.
In the spring of 1840 or '41 there came to Utica three men by
the name of Hale, Thompson and Miller. Miller was hired to teach
a school. Hale and Thompson rented th*^ steam grist-mill and dis-
tillery. They seemed to make considerable show, fixing up the mill,
buying grain, etc. They went in debt for everything, saying they
would pay as soon as they got some drafts exchanged, as it could
not be done here; finally Messrs. Graham & Snyder, of Canton,
bought one of their drafts, paid some goods and balance in money.
As soon as thev got the monev thev made excuse now that thev would
look around and buy some cattle to feed their still-slop, etc., but
their intention was to leave. I saw all was not right and followed
Thompson to John Coleman's, in Canton, took Thompson one side,
told him my fears and I wanted ray pay or some assurance as I did
not believe he would come back ; well, they had bought several
hundred bushel of grain, but never paid for it; they, however, gave
me a lien on the grain to secure me : thev left, owing John Coleman
considerable and he attached this grain and this brought me in the
first law suit I ever had, with a man too that was posted in law. I
beat him before a justice, Fairchild by name; he appealed; finally
compromised; gave him a part of the grain ; he paying all the cost.
Miller, the school teacher, was never heard from. John G. Gra-
10;i() HISTOHV OK FUI/roK COUNTY.
liani or Snyder, followed Thompson, overtook him near the State-
line ot" Indiana, bron^ht him l)aek; he gave up all he had and was
let go. After telling where Hale, his partner was, parties went in
pursuit of Hale ; found him living on Fox river ; his right name
being Chandler; he was brought back, had a preliminary trial; in
defoult of l)ail was sent to jail. He was taken to Lewistown hand-
cuiFed, night overtook them and he made his escape ; the handcuffs
being found near Utica, it was supposed he had found some friend
there to assist him. It was supposed and really understood that the
|)arties, who was imposed on by the forged drafts, had been made
good, and the prisoner given a chance to make his esca])e.
There was a grist and saw-mill in Utica built, I believe, by a Mr.
Clark, some several years before I come to the county, owned by
Theopolis Kirk, and rented to Samuel Myers and AVm. Enochs. It
did considerable business ; afterward I rented the mill, refitted it,
but run it but a short time and sold out to other parties.
My land was surrounded with a very heavy growth of the finest
timber I ever saw, being clustered up with grape vines, that some-
time we would have to cut several trees before we could make them
fall to the ground ; all this together with the decaying vegetation in
the fall of year and the musquitoes. Oh ! my, it makes me shudder
to think back, what I have had to endure among all these pests ;
whv, sir ! I have had mv corn torn down bv the raccoons ; vou
would have thought a drove of hogs were in the field; I have had it
badly eaten by squirrels. They would be in droves so thick some-
times that I have seen forty or fifty on some of the dead trees
through the field; blackbirds were terrible, we had to watch and
scare them oflf'as they passed from the bottoms, their roosting place,
in the morning and back in the evening, and unless you watched
your crop they would tear open, eat and destroy your crops. Before
going on my place I tried to get a location at the Landing on the
river; the little log warehouse I spoke of before on my landing here
from Peoria, belonged to Ira Mills, he did not seem to do much,
still I knew that all the goods and wants of the country from abroad
and all our surplus [)roducts must either be shi])ped in or out by the
Illinois river, and I thought I could build up a good business at the
Landing. I made a pnqxtsition to Mr. ]\Iills to buy so much ground
and give him a horse and buggy for a lot, and rent his warehouse
and ground for five years, to pay the rent in building on the prem-
ises, but he was one of those kind of men that would do nothing,
and not let any one else. Failing in this enterprise I moved on my
])lace ; immediately after this A. C. Thompson bought lands adjoin-
ing ^Iv. Mills. Richard Tompkins took charge and opened u]) a
much better Landing than Mr. Mills, as his, Mr. Mills, \va.s nearer
the mouth of the creek and gradually filling up, and finally went
down. Mr. Elisha AV. Resor and Wilson Hulit became interested
in the other Landing, and afterwards Snider and Benjamin Kawalt,
among them, built uj) several large warehouses. Mr. Resor and
HISTOHV <»K ITI/roN CorNTV. ■ 1081
Hulit o]>cnod up a store, bought in the pnnUu'ts ot" the eountrv,
(lone quite a large business, and sometimes there has been as high
as a hundred teams a day with loads of grain, come to the ware-
house. The year the cholera raged along the river, Snider and Ben-
jamin Rawalt fell victims to the scourge. In the latter part of
1855 or 185G, the nu\in warehouse stored full of the ])roducts of the
country, took tire and burned down.
In the s])ring of 1850 I commenced building my mill ; started the
engin"^ on Christmas day, the saw soon after. The next spring put
in a run of burrs and after awhile bolts and another run of burrs,
etc., having two double Hued boilers and j)lenty of ]M)wer to drive
all, 1 run the mill successfully, but for several years })ast I have
not given it nuich attention, having Mr. liybee's business to look
after. I assisted Mr. Bybee in his business for many years, and
the last few vears of his life had his entire business. In 1842 agreed
to take full charge of his atfairs. He selected me some years ago,
if I should outlive him, to settle up his esta+e. On the 4th of Oct.,
1877, he died. I gave bond of §400,000; took charge of the estate,
his personal and real ])roperty footed up to §281,000. I distributed
among the heirs in the month of January following, §175,000, and
made some advances since, and the two years has just passed since
I took out letters, the time allowed in settling up the estate. I
have the balance in shape according to agreement with heirs to pass
over to them in a few days. This is the largest estate ever j)robated
in Fulton Co. and so arranged as to be settled U]) in the two years.
Richard Hall relates quite an interesting incident of " Wester-
field's defeat." He and his brother-in-law, Joe Hedge, started
from near Havana to go to Lewistown by way of Waterford.
Seeinij a team al)out readv to cross bv the ferrv at the Illinois river,
they recjuested the ferryman to pull across, when Mr. Wentworth,
who owned the team, asked Dick (Richard Hall) to ride and drive
while the other two walked. When half-way to Waterford they
noticed a man dodging in and out of the bushes near the road as
though he was trying to see and not be seen. The })arty made
some remarks about it, but concluded he was looking for bees, or
hunting. He finally came uj) to them, but had evidently thought
they were Indians. His nanu> was David Fonts. He said, " boys,
you had l)etter be going to the other end of the roads, for, he said,
the Indians were killing every one in the town of Canton." He
himself heard the screaming and yelling of the women and children,
and knew that every white human was being murdered. Mr. Hall
and party, however, kept on. They next met T^ouis Winans with
two yoke of oxen hitched to a sled on w liich was a bureau, bed-
ding and his family, with two l)oys plodding along in the road be-
hind, while he was urging the oxen by whijiand speech continually.
Thev next met John Pixlev, with one voke of oxen hitched to a
sled, on which were his wife and some children, while others walked.
Pixley, while on his retreat, picked up a son of John Coleman who
had been deserted by his father, and took him to Havana.
10.'^2 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
Richard Hall on this trip came throutrh Thompson's Prairie, went
up to a log cabin owned by a Mr. Thompson, and noticing quite a
stir, asked what was up. They explained that the Indians were
coming, and they were fixing up a fort. This cabin was about
12x14 feet in size, and a few good men with handspikes could have
upset it.
One of the neighbors of Elijah AVillcoxen, by the name of Farris,
during the Westerfield Indian scare, while fleeing with her children,
was encumbered by a babe, which she was obliged to abandon in
order to escape with the rest. She afterwards recovered the child,
however.
It is related that one of the primary causes of the Black Hawk
war was from an incident that happened in Liverpool tp. Joseph
Farris, Asa Smith, and Bird Ellis, while out hunting, espied a
young Indian, caught him, cut switches and whipped him with them.
He attempted to escape and while doing so one of the party struck
him on the head with "U gun, and they left him near the Indian
camp. He recovered so as to get to his friends, bnt died jn<t as
they arrived at Peoria, where they had carried him on a litter.
From this and other incidents was the cause of the Black Hawk
war, in which so many innocent lives were lost.
J//-.S. Adeline Ray, daughter of Elij ih AVillcoxen, tells of an in-
cident that happened to her father during the winter of the big
snow. He started out on a hunt and was obliired to wear larire
snow shoes, 16 inches wide by 2 or 3 feet long. While going over
a large drift he made a misstep, and fell head first into the snow.
Nothing remained in sight but his feet and the big snow shoes.
As fast as he would try to get up the snow would break away and
let his head and shoulders down deeper than ever. He finally suc-
ceeded in getting his knife out and cutting the snow shoes from his
feet and extricated himself, but came ])retty near being "drowned
in the snow."
Mrs. Rav savs the Nvhole settlement Avas almost like one familv,
kind, hospitable and honest, always ready to help one another. She
can remember of seeing deer in herds of 1 o to 20 at a time.
" FULTON COUNTY."
The following; pssny was delivered by Miss Emma Williams at the graduating
exercises of tlie Canton High School in 1874:
Feeling that our county is not appreciated as it should be, I have
undertaken to give a short description of it. Being our home, we
cannot but feel some interest in it, and it is to our advantage to
know what it contains, and what has been done, and what is the
best mode of improving it. It was originally a part of Pike
county; was organized Jan. 28, 1823, and has from its earliest his-
tory manifested great industry and improvement. It is triangular
in shape, 9 to 36 miles long from north to south, 14 to 20 east and
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1033
west, and consists of 26 organized townships, and in 1870 contained
a population of 38,000.
It has many natural advantages, such as being well watered;
plenty of timber; rich fertile soil; and accessible to market by the
Illinois river, which is now being much improved by the building
of the Copperas creek dam. This when c()mj)lcted will give those
of the southern part of the county greater facilities for shii)])ing
their produce to the great markets of Clii(!ago and St. Louis by
water transportation, which was in the early days of the county the
only means of transportation. The surface of the county consists
of undulating and highly cultivated prairies, diversified with excel-
lent timber. It was originally nearly equally divided between prai-
rie and timber land. But a large portion of this timber has been
cleared away in developing the agricuiltural interests of the county,
and splendid farms now occupy places which but a few years ago
were covered with a dense forest.
There is considerable variety in the soils of this county, though
there are none so poor that they will not produce fair crops of the
cereals grown in this region when properly cultivated. The most
productive soils are those covering the prairie laud which are a
chocolate brown, rich in organic matter and jn'oduce very large
crops. The poorest lands are the white oak ridges that skirt the
borders of sm.iU streams, but they will yield fair crops, and are
equal, if not superior, to the prairie land for the growth of fruit.
Sand and clay for m dving brick are found abundantly distributed
in every neighborhood and on almost every farm in the county.
The soil of the prairies furnish abundant of brown clay, which,
when mingled with sand found in the beds of streams, forms excel-
lent material for this purpose.
Nearly all the uplands of the county are underlaid with coal.
The most complete expanse of the productive coal-measures that
have been discovered in the State is found here. Several strata, all
of which have been worked to a greater or less extent, have been
discovered. It is so abundant in many places just beneath the sur-
face that with but little elVort it may be <juite easily obtained, and it
is so distributed as to be accessible to any j^ortion of the county.
The strata comprising numbers one, two and three, outcrop on all
the streams in the south and west portion, and is of great value to
South Fulton, while strata numbers four and six, the most valuable
in the northern portion of the vState, underlies nearly seven town-
ships in the county, equal to n(\irly 9,000,000 tons of coal to the
square mile.
The mining and ship])ing of coal in our county will compare
favorably with any in the State. It is equal in (piality to any in the
West, and will answer most all j)urposes for which coal is used.
A good (juality of fire-clay has been found in the vicinity of
Marietta, from two to three feet in thickness and will be quite
valuable in course of a few years in making fire-brick.
10;U HISTORY OF FT'LTON COUNTY.
A fiiH' (luality of sandstone is heinj; extensively worked on Spoon
river which is (|uite vahiable for building purposes.
Between Seville and J^ernadotte there has been found extensive
beds of St. Louis limestone, which forms material for making the
purest and whitest made in the State. Our mineral resources are
being more fully developed every year. In fact our county may i)e
called a mine of wealth.
Our railroad facilities are very good. The Buda & Rushville
branch of the Chicago, ]5urlington & Quincy railroad passes through
from the north to the southwest part of the county, and the main
line intersects the northwest corner of the county. The Toledo,
Peoria c^' Warsaw crosses from east to west nearly through the
center of the county, and the Rockford, Rock Island & St. Louis
railroad through the southwestern part, affording us good shipping
facilities for our surplus jn'oducc.
The educational udvanttiues arc certainlv worth mentioning;.
Great improvements have been made in the Public School system
within the past twenty years. Every parent recognizing the just,
moral claim of every child to an education, feels the importance and
dignity of his obligations, and upright and loyal citizen, to make
equal provision for all.
We have a number of fine churches of most every denomination,
and different societies, as Masonic fraternity, Odd Fellows, Good
Templars and many (tthcr, seqm to be in a flourising condition.
J might mention the benevolent societies. Where is there a
county which makes greater efforts to provide for her poor and
needy than our own ? All seem to be ready to give a helping hand
to assist those who arc destitute of the many comforts of life.
There is also several weekly ncwsj)apers published in our county,
three of which are ])ublishcd in our own citv. Besides these there
are in operation some very large woolen mills, wagon sho])S, etc.
The plow and cultivator factory of Canton is one of the most exten-
sive of the State.
The future for Fultt)n county looks bright. In what direction
can you turn and ])oint out to us a county containing better advant-
ages than we ])Ossess for manufacturing, mining and the general
pursuits of life.
Jjt't the idea be fully realized that thousands of dollars lie
buried within a few feet of the surface of the ground and some one
will devise plans and means for rendering it available. We have a
number of manufactories but need more to use our undeveloj)ed re-
sources, '^riie industry of the past is but an earnest of the speedy
accomplishment of the present and f"uture. It is (piite im])ortant
that every citizen, either as an economist or tax-payer, shoidd call
for an inventory of the mineral wealth of the county, to show the
advantage we have for manufacturiny;. A thorouirh survev of the
county at the present time when ca])ital is l)eginning to seek invest-
ment would be of great value.
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1035
Farmers have paid for their lands, nu'clianios are Imildiiifi- tlieir
houses and will soon have surplus means that will seek employ-
ment within (Hir borders. If not invested here it will be elsewhere
and some reliable data must be furnished to convince caj)ital that
there is a sul)stantial basis for its investment here, and nothing can
do this more eflieiently than a thorouo-h survey under the aus])ices
of the county o<)vernment. When we can do this, our wealth is
sure, and Fulton county will rank one of the first in the State.
.MIS( KLLA N K( )UR BIOC R A PIT I KS.
Williani Bot/d, Lewlstown. His father, John and his mother Ann
Boyd, nee Tagirert, wore natives of Ireland, Wm. was born in
Antrim Co., near Giant's Causeway, Ire., Aug. 1, 1880; came to
America in 1842 and stopped in Wayne Co., (),, where he lived till
1849; learned shoe-making and went to Columbus, (),, where he re-
sided till the s[)ring of ISoT, when he came to Lewistown. A\'hile
in Columbus he married Sarah L. Miner and they have 4 children :
Carrie F., Ida P., Grace G., and Williard A. During the dark days
of the Rebellion lie enlisted in Co. H, lOMrd 111. Inf., as 1st Lieut.,
and was promoted to Capt. and served 2^. years. He is a member
of the Prcsbvterian Church.
Calvin G. Breed, deceased, was a carpenter and farnier, sec. 36,
Canton tp. ; was born at Stonington, Conn., Aug. 22, 1808, son of
Jesse and Hannah Breed; came to this county in 1836 ; for his first
wife he married Harriet Potter Jan. 21, 1838, and for his second,
Mary A. Brown April 18, 1852; had 6 children, 5 of whom are liv-
ing,—Henrv, born Nov. 16, 1838; Frank, Jan. 26, 1840; Angeline,
July 22, 1843; Jesse, Dec. 30, 1845; Mav A., Oct. 10, 1853; and
Adda, Oct. 16, 1860. Mr. Breed died Oct. 11, 1872, owning 900
acres of land. We give his portrait in this volume.
Thoiii'i^ T. Bifbec, deceased, whose portrait appears in this vol-
ume, was born in Kentucky, Sept. 20, 1798; at quite an early age
married a Miss Hagan ; was (piite a wild lad, and on the occasion of
his marriage was short of the necessary means to get his license, etc.,
so he asked his father to loan him fivedollai-s for a short time, offer-
ing to return it again soon, but his father having little confidence in
his son Thomas, refusi'd, telling him at the same time that he would
never be worth a damn. By his first wife he had two sons, David
and James. His wifi' died and he married Debbie dennings bv
name, who had two sons, Hlijah and James Jennings. By this mar-
riage was born to them two daughters, Lovina and Mary A. In
the fall of 1829 moved to I'^ulton Co., canijx'd the first winter on
the bluft' near Jacob A[aus', and next spring moved out on the south
end of the land he owned, near where John Snider now lives. In
1837 or '38 he built a new house and moved therein, in which he
died. On the 8th day of April, 1872, Mr. Bybee's second wife died,
and on the 24tli day of August, 1873, he married his third wife,
Matilda S. Smith, and on the 4th of Oct. 1877, Mr. Bybee died,
1036 HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY.
havinjr had a stroke of paralysis, ^[r. Byboe was a man of great
strength and action, sni.iU, Ijut scrutinizing eyes, very quick of per-
ception, would show his friendship or hostility in the twinkling of
an eye, and sometimes rashly Hy into a passion and abuse his best
friends, when there was nothing to justify iiim in so doing, but his
disposition was to soon get over it and sometimes shed tears that he
had suffered his passion to go so far. Mr. Bybee was very close in
all his dealings, saving and economizing in every particular; had no
education ; could not read and could barely write his name, but he
was a man of great memory. About twenty -five years ago Mr.
Bybee had but little wealth, comparatively speaking, but after his
death, Mr. Wm. H. Smith, his executor, in making an inventory of
his effects, real and personal, found them to be worth §281,000.
Peter Yerger Cusfor. Teacher, manufacturer, farmer, etc., now on
sec. 26, Canton township; P. O., Canton; was born in Pennsyl-
vania July 31, 1818, son of Jacob and Catharine Custer. This
name is from- the Holland Dutch Kutzer, equal to Chester in
English. Forefathers were Mennonites who settled in Eastern
Pennsylvania. His uncle, Anthony Custer, owns the old home-
stead, which has never been sold since it was patented to this family
by Wm. Penn, but has descended by entailment. The subject of
this paragraph was educated at Washington Hall Seminary, Trappe,
Montgomery Co., Pa. ; Sept. 21, 1841, he married Hannah Albright,
and thev have had 5 bovs and 4 girls, 6 of whom are living:
Emanuel, born June 21, 1842 ; Emma, Oct. 8, 1844 ; Jacob, Aug. 10,
1849; Horace, Mav 26, 18ol ; Peter, Sept. 10, 1852; Catharine,
Nov. 7, 185-; Heiiry, Nov. 29, 1860. Mr. Custer has owned 80
acres of land, which he sold at SlOO ])er acre ; has been Commis-
sioner of Highways. His portrait appears in this History.
ThoTiuLH P. Duncan was born in 1824 in Pa., son of George and
and Elizabeth (Primrose) Duncan, natives of Scotland, both deceased.
They came first to Wayne Co., HI., and then in 1836 to Fulton Co.
Here, in Isabel tp., Thomas P. has toih-d for many a year as a
farmer and miller, and has now a comfortable home on 260 acres of
land. He has ever been an eminent business man. Of the enor-
mous growth of timber on this farm since 1846 we have already
written. This gentleman is the founder of Duncan C'ity, and his
brother John was the first Postmaster of " Duncan Mills" at this
point. Thomas P. Duncan married Laura Freeman, a native of
New York, and they have had 7 children.
Jamci Main, blacksmith, was born at Red Mills, X. Y., in 1838,
.son of Robert and Margaret Main, natives of New York. He
came to Hlinois in 185-j and finally located at Duncan City. He
can make as good a wagon as any one in the State. He has
traveled a great deal in former years, and one time he was in a
storm on lake Eric for 6 days.
John McDer/nott, employee on C, B. & Q. R. R., Yates City, was
born Nov. 25, 1850, in the State of New York, son of Reinhard
HISTORY OF FULTON COUNTY. 1037
McDermott, a ma.'^on wlio came from Irelan<l, and marriocl Man-
Ann Hagan in New York, al.so a native of Irelaml. Of their 3
children John was the 2d, who was first a farmer, then came to
Pekin, and enjxaged in railroading. He was very young when his
father died, and he early learned to manage for himself.
Edward Sayrc, Lewistown, was born in Elizabeth, X. J., July 'l^i,
1813, the son of Nathan and Abagail (Southwell) Sayre, natives of
New Jersey. Mr. S. lived there until April 27. 1840, when he
came to Fulton Co. and located near Ellisville. He came west in
company with Judge H. ^I. Wcad, a companion in X. J. Years
l)assed and these two young men grew to prominence, and when
Mr. Wead was elected Judge, Mr. S. ran on the same ticket for
Circuit Clerk. Judge Wead left Lewistown in 1854, went to
Peoria and died. Mr. S. went to Otto where he engaired in milling,
merchandising and farming for 9 years. In 1852 he was elected
Circuit Clerk and moved to I^ewistown where he has since resided.
He was re-elected to that office in 185G, and is to-day one of the
best posted men on judicial, official and general historical happen-
ings of any man in the county. He was elected to the Legislature
in 1840, and was in the important sessions that framed the new
laws of the Constitution of '48. He married Jan. 27, 18G4, Mary
M. Lillv, of Lexington, Kv. Thev have 3 children.
Elder Henry Srnifher, Table Grove, ^^inister of the Christian
Church, was born April 4, 183(), in Owen Co., Ky. ; came to
Schuyler Co., 111., in 1851, and to Fulton Co. in 1858; was edu-
cated at Berean College, Jacksonville, III., and at Normal, 111. ;
studied law under Judge P. H. Walker at Rushville, and admitted
to the Bar in 18G7 ; was Supt. of Schools of Schuyler Co., 18<j2-4 ;
married Jude Patterson, at Rushville, Jan. 2<), 1870, and has had
one boy and one girl,' only the former living, who was born Aug.
30, 1877. His parents were NVm. H. and Emily (Alsop) Smither,
natives of Kentucky. For years he was Pastor of the Christian
Churches at Vermont and Table Grove.
John A. Webster, Vermont, was born in Virginia, May 4, 1814,
son of Heurv and Sarah Webster; graduated in a log school-
house surrounded with beech trees ; his occupation from the time
he was twenty-one years of age (in 1835) was that of teaching
school until he left Ky. in Oct., 1855, and came to Vermont, 111.,
where he has resided ever since ; has also taught several terms in
Illinois; has filled the office of J. P. in Ky. ; the offices of Collec-
tor and Assessor in Vermont tp. ; is now Town Clerk and Police
Magistrate. He was married Aug. 17, 1837, to Miss Angeline
Hanen, in Ky., she died shortly after he emigrated to 111. Sept. 13,
1859, he was married again, to Miss Harriet Plummer of Ky.; she
died April 26, 18(33; March 1, 1868, he was again married, to Mrs.
Eliza J. Lindsey, of Vermont, 111. He united with the Chris-
tian Church in Vermont May 8, 1862; has filled in the Church the
offices of Deacon and Elder, the latter of which offices he now fills.
Kii/roN corNTY \'Ai;R()\v-(;Ar(;i-; nAii>AVAV.'=-
This is purely a Fulton county enterprise, indeed, we might
justly say that it is a Lewistown enterprise. It was inaugurated
and pushed I'orward mostly by Lewistown men and money. It has
long been known that Havana has made strenuous efforts to secure
the grain trade of Fulton cctunty, and that she has succeeded most
admirably cannot be denied. To divert this trade from that city
and bring it to Lewistown where it properly belongs is, the object
of building this road.
For several years the building of a railroad extending from the
river to Xorth Fulton has been contemplated, and seven or eight
years ago a road known as the Springtield tt Northwestern R. R.
was projected. This road was completed as far as Havana, but no
farther. That enterprise being abandoned, three or four years ago
the narrow-gauge project was originated. Considerable talking
was done, but no definite action taken in regard to the matter until
October, 1878, when the Fulton County Narrow-Gauge Railway
(\unpany was organized. The amount of $100,000 was immedi-
atelv subscribed, and the mad was soon surveyed and irradiuir
being done. Mr. J. C. Willcoxen is the ]irincij)al contractor.
The >s. (J. road runs from Havana through Lewistown, Cuba to
Fairview, opening up to Lewistown one of the wealthiest agricul-
tural districts of the countv. The main ideas in favor of iniildini>-
a narrow-gauge road was -that it could be i)uilt ibr much less
money, the running ex])enses would be nominal, and it would do
all the work required as well, and with the rapidity, ease and com-
fort of a standard-gauge. The road will cost les.- than 8^3,000 j)er
mile. It would have been in operation ere this if the Comj)any
had not iiave l)een disappointed in securing iron.
Kdwin Harris of Lewistown was chosen the first President.
Henry Phelps is the present incumbent of that position. I. M.
Hummel is Vice-President; Wm. J. Dyckes, Secretary; Closes
Turner, Treasurer; and Henry Phelps, Judge S. P. Shoi)e, John
A. Gray, J. C. Willcoxen, I. M. Hummel, Edwin Harris, W. G,
Swartz, D. A. Burgett, Oliver Rice, and I. C. Worley, Directors.
^ This sketch .should have been inserted in the chapter on Raihoads, but
was unfortunately overlooked until nftcr that chapter had pasf;ed through the
press.
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
LAWS.
The courts recognize two kinds of law, Statute and Common.
Statute law is that which is enacted by the Legislature. Common
law consists of all the law of England, — whether Statute, or Com-
mon, which was in force in that country at the time of our inde-
pendence, and recognized by our courts, and which has not since
been repealed or disused.
We have what is called established law. For this branch of
common law there is no authority excepting the decisions of the
courts; hence the value of the reported decisions which are pub-
lished by official reporters. The law presumes that every body is
acquainted with it. Mistakes of fact can be corrected by the courts,
but not mistakes of law; no man being permitted to take advantage
of a mistake of the law, either to enforce a right, or avoid an obli-
gation; for it would be dangerous and unwise to encourage igno-
rance of the law, by permitting a party to profit, or to escape, by liis
ignorance. One is required at his peril to know the law of his own
country.
JURISDICTION OF COURTS.
Justices have jurisdiction in all civil cases on contracts for the
recovery of moneys for damages, for injury to real property, or tak-
ing, detaining, or injuring personal property; for rent; for all cases
to recover damages done to real or personal property, by railroad
companies; in actions of replevin; of actions for damages for fraud;
in the sale, purchase, or exchange of personal property, when the
amount claimed as due is not over $200. They have also jurisdic-
tion in all cases for violation of the ordinances of cities, towns, or
villages. A justice of the peace may orally order an officer or a
private person, to arrest anv one committing, or attempting to com-
mit a criminal offense. He also, upon complaint, can issue his
warrant for the arrest of any person accused of having committed a
crime, and have him brought before him for examination.
1040 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
t
COINTY COURTS
Have jurisdiction in all matters of probate (except in counties
having a population of one hnndred thousand or over), settlement
of estates of deceased persons, appointment of guardians and con-
servators, and settlements of their accounts; all matters relating to
apprentices; proceedings for the collection of taxes and assesments,
and in proceedings of executors, administrators, guardians, and
conservators, f«;r the sale of real estate. In law cases, they have
concurrent jurisdiction with Circuit Courts in all cases where jus-
tices of the pz'ace now have, or hereafter may have, jurisdiction
when tlie amount claimed shall not exceed SI, 000; and in all crim-
inal offenses, where the punishment is not imprisonment in the pen-
itentiary or death, and in all cases of appeals from justices of peace
and police magistrates, except when the county judge is sitting as
a justice of the peace.
Circuit Courts have unlimited jurisdiction.
COMMISSIOXERS OF HIGHWAYS.
The commissioners of highways in the different towns, have
the care and superintendence of highways, and bridges therein.
They have the power to lay out, vacate, regulate and repair all roads,
build and repair bridges, and divide their respective towns into as
many road districts as they shall think convenient. This is to be
done annually, and ten days before the annual town meeting. In
addition to the above, it is their duty to erect and keep in repairs
at the forks or crossing-place of the most important roads, post and
guide-boards, with plain inscriptions, giving directions and dis-
tances to the most noted places to which such roads may lead; also
to make provisions to prevent thistles, burdock, cockle-burs, mus-
tard, yellow dock, Indian mallow, and jinison weed from seeding,
and to extirpate the same as far as practicable, and to prevent all
rank growth of vegetation on the public highways, so far as the
same may obstruct public travel; and it is in their discretion to
erect watering places for public use, for watering teams at such
points as may be deemed advisable. Every able-bodied male inhab-
itant, being above the age of twenty-one years, and under fifty, ex-
cepting pau])ers, idiots, lunatics, trustees of schools and school di- ^
rectors, and such others as are exempt by law, are required to labor
on highways in their respective road districts, not less than one,
DIGEST UF STATE LAWS. 1041
nor more than three days in each year. Three da^'s' notice must
be given by tlie overseer, of the time and phice lie requires such
road hibor to be done. The labor must be performed in the road
district in which the person resides. Any person may commute
for such labor by paying the equivalent in money. Any person
liable for work on highwaj's, who has been assessed two days or
more, and has not commuted, may be required to furnish team, or
a cart, wagon or plow, with a pair of horsjs or oxen and a man to
manage them, for which he will be entitled to two days' work.
Eight hours is a days' work on the roads and there is a penalty of
twenty-five cents an hour against any person or substitute who
shall neglect or refuse to perform. Any person remaining idle, or
does not work faithfully, or hinders others from doing so, forfeits
to the town $2. Every person assessed and duly notified, who has
not commuted, and refuses or neglects to appear, shall forfeit to the
town for every day's refusal or neglect, the sum of $2; if he was
required to furnish a team, carriage, man or implements, and neg-
lects or refuses to comply, he is liable to the following fines: 1st,
For wholly failing to comply, $4 each day; 2d, For omitting to
furnish a man to manage team, $2 each day; 3d, For omitting to
furnish a pair of horses or oxen, $1.50 each day; 4th, For omitting
to furnish a wagon, cart or plow, 75 cents each day. The commis-
sioners estimate and assess the highway labor and road tax. The
road tax on real and personal property can not exceed forty cents
on each hundred dollars' worth. The labor or road tax in villaores,
towns or cities, is paid over to the corporate authorities of such,
for the improvement of streets, roads and bridges within their lim-
its.
The legal voters of townships, in counties under township organ-
ization may, by a majority vote, at their annual town meeting,
order that the road tax may be collected in money only.
Overseers. — Their duties are to repair and keep in order the high-
ways in their districts; to warn persons to work out their road tax
at such time and place as they think pro])er; to collect fines and
commutation money, and execute all lawful orders of the commis-
sioners of highways; also make list, within sixteen days after their
election, of the names of all inhabitants in his road district, liable
to work on highways. For refusal to perform any of his duties he •
is liable to a fine of $10.
1042 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
As all township and county officers are familiar with their duties,
it is here intended onlv to give the points of law with which the
public should be familiar. The manuer of laying out, altering, or
vacating roads, etc., will not be here stated, as it would require
more space than can be spared in a work like this. It is siitiicient
to state that the first step is by petition, addressed to the commis-
sioners, setting out what is prayed for, giving the names of the
owners of the lands, if known (if not known, so state), over which the
road is to pass, giving the general course, its place of beginning,
and where it terminates. It requires not less than twelve freehold-
ers residing within three miles of the road, who shall sign the peti-
tion. Public roads must not be less than fifty, nor more than sixty
feet wide. K^jads not exceeding two miles in length, if petitioned
for, mav be laid out not less than forty feet wide. Private roads
for private and public use may be laid out three rods wide, on peti-
tion of the person directly interested; the damage occasioned there-
by shall be paid by the premises benefited thereby, and before the
road is opened. If not opened in two years, the order shall be con-
sidered recinded. Commissioners in their discretion may permit
persons who live on or have private roads, to work out their road
tax thereon. Public roads must be opened in five years from date
of filing order of location, or be deemed vacated.
FE>'CES.
The town assessor and commissioners of highways shall be fence
viewers in their respective towns in counties under township organ-
ization. In other counties, the county board appoints three in each
precinct, annually,
A lawful ferics is four and one-half feet high and in good repair,
consisting of rails, timbers, boards, stones, hedges, or any other
material the fenco viewers may deem sufficient. Th3 electors at
any annual town meeting may determine what shall constitute a
Ie2:al fence in the town.
Division fences shall be made and maintained in just proportion
by the adjoining owners, except where the owner shall choose to let
his land lie open; but after a division fence has been built by mu-
tual agreement or otherwise, it shall not be lawful for either party
to remove his part of said fence, so long as he may crop or use such
lands for farm purposes, or without giving the other party one
year's notice in writing, of his intention to move his portion of the
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1043
feDce. Adjoining owners slionld endeavor, if possible, mutnallj to
agree as to tae proportion that each shall maintain of the division
fence between their adjoining lands; and the agreement should be
reduced to writing, each party taking a copj. When any person
shall enclose his land npon the enclosnre of another, he shall refaud
the owner of the adjoining lands a jast proportion of the value at
that time of such fence. The value of tuch fence, and the propor-
tion thereof to be paid by such person, anl the proportion of the
division fence to bs made and miintainei bj him, in Cjise of his
inclosing his land, shall be determined bj two fence viewers of the
town. Such fence viewers have power to settle ail disputes betwe^i
owners as to fences baiit or to be built, as well as concerning repairs
to be ma'ie. Each party chooses one of the viewers, but if the
other party neglects, after eight days' notice in writing, to make
his choice, then the other party may select both. It is sufficient to
notify the tenant, or party in possession, when the owner is not a
resident of the town in which such fences are situated. The two
fence viewers chosen, after viewing the premises, shall hear the
statements of the parties. In case they can't agree, they shall se-
lect another fence viewer to act with them, and the decision of any
two of them shall be linaL The decision must be reduced to writ-
ing, and should plainly set out a description of the fence and all
matters settled by them, and must be filed in the office of the town
clerk.
If any |)erson who is liable to contribute to the ereetiton or repa-
ration of a division fence, shall neglect or refuse to make or repair
his proportion of such fence, the party injured,after giving sixty days'
notice, in writing, that a new fence should be erected, or ten days'
notice, in writing, that the repair of such fence is necessary, may
make or repair the same at the expense of the party so neglecting
or refusing, to be recovered from him with costs of suit; and the
party so neglecting or refusing, after notice in writing, shall be lia-
ble to the party injured for all damages which shall thereby accrue,
to be determined by any two fence viewers. When a person shall
conclude to remove his part of the division fence and let his land
lie open, and having given the year's notice required, the adjoining
owner may cause the value of said fence to be ascertained by fence
viewers as before provided ; and on payment or tender of the
amount of such valuation to the owner, it shall prevent the removaL
1044 PKfKST OF STATE LAW>.
A party removing a division fence without notice is liable for the
dainiiges accruing thereby.
Where a fence has been built on the land of another through
mistake, the owner may enter upon such premises and remove hib
fence and material within six months after the division line has
been ascertained. Where the material to build such a fence has
been taken from -the land on which it was built, then before it can
be removed, the person claiming must first pay for such material,
to the owner of the laud from which it was taken; nor shall such a
fence be removed at a time when the removal will throw open or
expose the crops of the other party; a reasonable time must be
given beyond the six months to remove crops.
The compensation of fence viewers is one dollar and fifty cents
a day each, to be paid in the first instance by the party calling them;
but in the end all expenses, including amount charged by the fence
viewers, must be ])aid equally by the parties, except in cases where
a party neglects or refuses to make or maintain a just proportion of
a division fence, when the party in default shall pay them.
DRAINAGE.
Whenever one or more owners or occupants of land desire to con-
struct a drain or ditch, through another man's land, the right can
be had only under legislative authority, or is granted or exists by
prescription or by consent of the owner.
Dripping water from one house upon another can be allowed only
where the owner has acquired the right by grant or prescription;
and no one has a right to construct his house so as to let the wajter
drip over his neighbor's land.
TRESPASS OF STOCK.
Where stock of an}' kind breaks into any person's inclosure, the
fence being good and sufficient, the owner is liable for the damage
done; but where the damage is done by stock running at large, con-
trary to law, the owner is liable where there is not such a fence.
Where stock is found trespassing on the inclosure of another as
aforesaid, the owner or occupier of the premises may take posses-
sion of such stock and keep the same until damages, with reasonable
charges for keeping and feeding, and all costs of suit, are paid.
Any person taking or rescuing such stock so held, without his con-
sent, shall be liable to a fine of not less than three nor more than
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 104")
five dollars for each animal rescued, to be recovered by suit before
a justice of the peace, for the use of the school fund. Within twen-
ty-four hours after taking such animal into his possession, the per-
son taking it up must give notice of the fact to the owner, if known;
or if unknown, notice must be posted in some public place near the
premises.
ESTRAYS.
Stray animals are those whose owner is unknown, any beasts, not
wild, found on one's premises, and not owned by the occupant. Any
aninuils found straying at any time during the year, in counties
where such animals are not allowed to run at large, or between the
last day of October and the loth day of April in other counties, the
owner being unknown, may be taken up as estrays. A party who
wishes to detain property as an estray, must show an exact compli-
ance with the law. In order to vest the property of the stray in
him, such acts must appear in detail on the record.
No person not a householder in the county where the estray is
found can lawfully take up an estray, and then only upon or about
his farm or place of residence. Estrays should not be used before
advertised, except animals giving milk, which may be milked for
their benefit. Notices must be posted up within five days in three,
of the most public places in the town or precinct in which the es-
tray was found, giving the residence o: ',1:3 taker-up, and a partic-
ular description of the estray, its age, color, and marks natural and
artificial, and stating before what justice of the peace in such town
or precinct, and at what time, not less than ten nor more than fif-
teen days from the time of posting such notices, he will apply to
have the estray apprised. If the owner of an estray shall not have
appeared and proved ownership and taken the same away, first
paying the taker-up his reasonable charges for taking u]>, keeping,
and advertising the same, the taker-up shall appear before the justice
mentioned in above notice, and make an affidavit as required by
law. All subsequent proceedings are before the justice who is fa-
miliar therewith; therefore we omit them here.
Any person taking up an estray at any other place than about or
upon his farm or residence, or without complying with the law, shall
forfeit and pay a fine of ten dollars with costs. Ordinary diligence
is required in taking care of estrays, but in case they die or get
away, the taker-up is not liable for the same.
1046 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
If a man finds estrays in his field he is not bound to retain them
for the owner, but may drive them ofi" into the higiiway without
being liable to an action. But a person who chases a horse out ot
his field with a large fierce dog, commits an unlawful act, and is
liable for any injury which the act occasions, A person who takes
anestray to keep for the owner, but does not pursue the cour-e pre-
scribed by statute, is not liable to an action unless he uses the same
or refuses to deliver it on demand. Hiding a horse to discover the
owner is not " use."
HORSES
Are animals of a domestic nature. Under the age of four years
they are called colts. A borrower of ahorse is liable for negligence,
misuse, or gross want of skill in use. The lender is liable in case
the animal lent is unfit or dangerous, as he thus may occasion
injury. The animal should be used only for the purpose and to the
extent stipulated, and not by a servant.
If he dies from disease, or is killed by inevitable accident, the bor-
rower is not liable. Defects which are manifest, open and plain to an
ordinary observer, and those also which are known to the buyer, are
not usually covered by a general warranty. The former requires
no skill to discover them, and the latter may be objected to or
acquiesced in at the time of the purchase. In the case of latent
defects existing in such a condition that they could not be detected
by the buyer, and are known to the seller, who fails to disclose them
to the buyer, the latter practices a constructive fraud, unless the
animal is sold '* with all faults." By consenting to purchase the
horse " with all faults," the purchaser takes upon himself the risk
of latent or secret defects, and calculates the price accordingly.
But even this kind of a purchase would be voidable if the seller
had ]iurposely, and to deceive the purchaser, covered, filled up,
patched, plastered, or otherwise practiced fraud to conceal any
defects, and he would be liable.
Hiring out a horse and carriage to perform a particular journey,
carries with it the warranty of the person letting the horse and
carriage, that each of them is tit and competent for such journey;
but, if a horse is hired for one purpose, and is used for another and
is injured, the hirer is liable for the damage sustained. The hirer
is in all cases answerable for ordinar}' neglect. If he uses the
hired horse as a prudent man would his own, he is not liable for
DI6EST OK STATE LAWS. 1047
any damage which the horss may receive. If, however, he keeps
the hired horse after a stipiihited time, or uses it differently from
his agreement, he is in any event h'able. If the hirer sells the horse,
the owner may recover its value of the purchaser, though the pur-
chaser had in good faitl) given the hirer full value for it, as the
hirer could give no better title than lie had himself.
Mischievous animals render their owners liable when known to
them to be so, and they are responsible for the damage they may do
when they permit them to go at large. Any person may jusiity
the killing of ferocious animals.
MARKS AXL BRANDS.
Owners of cattle, horses, hogs, sheep or goats, may have one ear-
mark and one brand, which shall be .different from his neighbors',
and may be recorded by the county clerk of the county in which
such property is kept. The fee for such record is fifteen cents. The
record of such shall be open to examination free of charge. In
cases of disputes as to marks or brands, such record is 'prima facie
evidence. Owners of cattle, horses, hogs, sheep or goats, that may
have been branded by former owners, may he rebranded in presence
of one or more of his neighbors, who shall certify to the facts of
the marking or branding being done, when done, and in what brand
or mark they were re-branded or re-marked, which certificate may
also be recorded as before stated.
ARTICLES OF AGREEMENT.
An agreement is virtually a contract by which a certain person
(or persons) agrees or contracts to perform certain duties within a
specified time. Good business men always reduce an agreement to
writing, which nearly ahvaj's saves misunderstandings and long
and expensive lawsuits. No particular form is necessary, bat the
facts must be clearly and explicitly stated; and there must be a
reasonable consideration, else the agi'tement is void.
Unless it is expressly sti])ulated that the agreement is binding for
a longer time, the contract expires at the end of one year. Every
agreement should state most distinctl}' the time within which its
conditions are to be complied with. A discovery of fraud, or mis-
representation by one party to the agreement, or changing of the
date, renders the contract void. Each party should retain a copy of
the agreement.
1048 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
GENERAL FORM OF AGREEMENT.
This Agreement, made the third day of November, 1878, between
Damon Clarke of Macomb, county of McDonough, State of Illinois,
of the first part, and "William Hays, of the same place, of the
second part.
WITNESSETH, That the said Damon Clarke, in consideration of
the agreement of the party of the second part, hereinafter contained,
contracts, and agrees to, and with the said William Hays, that he
will deliver in good and marketable condition, at the city of Gales-
burg, 111., during the month of December of this year, nine hun-
dred bushels of corn, in the following lots, and at the following
specified times, namely: one hundred bushels b}' the fifth of Decem-
ber, three hundred bushels by the fifteenth of December, and the
balance by the thirtieth of December.
And the said William Hays in consideration of the prompt ful-
fillnient of this contract on the part of the party of the second
part, contracts to, and agrees with the said Damon Clarke, to pay
for said corn fifty cents ])er bushel as soon as delivered.
In case of failure of agreement by either of the parries hereto, it
is hereby stipulated and agreed that the party so failing shall pay
to the other, one hundred dollars, as fixed and settled damages.
In witnets whereof we have hereunto set our hands the day and
year first above written : Damon Clarke,
William Hats.
NOTES.
A note is legal, worded in the simplest way, so that the amount
and time of payment are mentioned. The following is a good form:
$100 Chicago, III., May 1, 1S79.
Thirty days after date I promise to pay F. M. .Chapman
or order, one hundred dollars, for value received.
S. T. Lewis.
To make a note payable in anything else than money, insert ^he
facts instead of the sum of money alone; unless paid when d'\?, it
is payable in money. To hold an indorser of a note, due di' ■cnce
must be used by suit in collecting of the maker, nnless suii would
have been unavailing. Notes payable to person named o: to order,
in order to absolutely transfer title, must be indorsed by the payer.
Notes payable to bearer may be transferred by delivery, and when
BO payable, every indorser thereon is held as a giiarrviitor of pay-
ment unless otherwise expressed.
The limit of time in wiiich action mav be broui'lit on a note is
10 yeara
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1049
If the note is payable to a person or order, or to a person or
bearer, to a person or his assigns, or to a cashier of an incorporated
company, such notes are negotiable.
When transferring a note, the indorser frees himself from respon-
sibility, so far as the payment is concerned, by writing on the back,
above his signature, without recourse to tne in any event.
A note is void when founded upon fraud. Thus a note obtained
from a person when intoxicated, or obtained for any reason which
is illegal, cannot be collected. A note given on Sunday is also void.
No defense can be made against negotiable paper purchased
before maturity for good consideration in the usual course of busi-
ness, without knowledge of facts impeaching its validity, except
fraud was used in obtaining the same. Thus if A gives his note
to B for $150, receives in. consideration a shawl and five pieces of
cloth. The former was represented to be worth $75, and the cloth
the best imported English goods. When, in fact, the shawl was
only worth $8, and suits made of the cloth wore out in less than
six weeks, long before the note was due. B, however, had sold the
note to O, who did not know the circumstances, and before it was
due — A would be obliged to pay it.
JUDGMENT NOTE.
For value received I promise to pay Ewing Summers, of Gales-
burg, or order, two hundred dollars, with interest, on the tir.-,t day
of January next. And, further, I do hereby empower any attorney
of any court of record In Illinois, or elsewhere, to appear for me,
and after a declaration filed therefor, to confess a indL'^ment aojainst
me in the above sum, as of last, next, or any subsequent term, with
cost (if suit, release of error, etc., with stay of execution until said
first day of January.
Witness my hand and seal at Galesbnrg, 111., this sixth day of
March, in the year one thousand eight hundred and seventy-nine.
[seal] Joun Jones.
INTEREST.
Interest is the compensation which is paid by the borrower of
money to the lender for its use. When the debtor expressly under-
takes to pay interest, he is bound to pay it; but if a party has
accepted the principal, he cannot recover interest in a separate
action. During the course of dealings between parties, a promise
to pay is implied, and the debtor is bound to pay. So also on an
1050 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
account stated, whenever the debtor knows precisely what he is to
pay, and when he Ib to pay it, after a demand of payment; but
interest is not due on a running account, even when the items are
all on one side, unless otherwise agreed upon. Wiiere the terms of
a promissory note are that it shall be paid by installments, and on
the failure of any installment the whole is to become due, interest
on the whole becomes payable from the first default. Where, by
the term of a bond or promissory note, interest is to be paid annu-
ally, and the principal at a distant day, the interest may be recov-
ered before the principal is due.
Interest is collectible in the following cases: For goods sold and
delivered after the stipulated term of credit has expired; if there be
no credit, then from the time of sale; on judgment debts, from the
rendition of judgment; on money obtained by fraud, or where ii
has been wrongfully detained (for whoever receives money not his
own, and detains it from the owner unlawfully, must pay interest
therefor: hence a public officer retaining money wrongfully is lia-
ble for the interest); on mone}' paid by mistake, or recovered on a
void execution; on money lent or laid out for another's use; and
rent, from the time that it is due.
When the rate of interest is specified in any contract, that rate
continues until full payment is made. A debt barred by the
statute of limitations and revived by an acknowledgment bears
interest for the whole time.
Comjyuting Interest. — In casting interest on notes, bonds, etc.,
upon which partial payments have been made, every payment is to
be first applied to discharge the interest; but the interest is never
allowed to form a part of the principal, so as to carry interest.
When a partial payment is made before the debt is due, it cannot
be apportioned part to the debt and part to the interest, but at the
end interest shall be charged on the whole sum, and the obligor
shall receive credit for the interest on the amount paid until the
interest becomes due.
The legal rate of interest is six per cent. Parties may agree in
writing on a rate not exceeding eight per cent. If a rate of interest
greater than eight per cent, is contracted for, the penalty is a for-
feiture of the entire interest, and only the principal can be
recovered.
lu computing interest or discount on negotiable instruments, a
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1051
month shall be considered a calendar month or twelfth of a year,
and for less than a mouth, a day shall be figured a thirtieth part of
a mouth. Notes bear interest only when so expressed; but after
due they draw the legal interest, six per cent., even if not stated.
Notes payable on demand or at sight draw no interest until after
presentation or demand of the same has been made, unless they
provide for interest from date on their face. If "with interest" is
included in the note, it draws the legal rate from the time it is
made. If the note is to draw a special rate of interest, higher than
the legal, but not higher than the law allows, the rate must bo
specified.
WILLS.
The legal declaration of a person's mind, determining the man-
ner in which he would have his property or estate disposed of after
his death, is termed a will. No exact form of words is necessary
in order to make a will good at law, though much care should be
exercised to state the provisions of the will so plainly that its lan-
guage may not be misunderstood.
Every male person of the age of twenty-one years, and every
female of the age of eighteen years, of sound mind, can make a
valid wi.l. It must be in writing, signed by the testator, or by
some one in his or her presence, and by his or her direction, and
attested by two or more credible witnesses. Care should be taken
that the witnesses are not interested in the will.
The person making the will may appoint his or her executors;
but no person can serve as such executor if he or she be an alien at
the time of proving the will, if he be under twenty-one yeai-s ot
age, a convict, a drunkard, a lunatic, or an imbecile.
Persons knowing themselves to have been ajipointed executors,
must, within thirty days after the death of deceased, cause the will
to be proved and recorded in the proper county, or present it and
refuse to accei)t. In case of failure to do so, they are liable to for-
feit the sum of twenty dollars per month. Inventory to be made
by executor or administrator within three months from date of let-
ters testamentary or administration.
The person making a will is termed the " testator " (if a female,
the "testatrix").
A will is of no force and efiect until the death of the testator,
1054 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
dollars in bank stock, in the First Nationa' Bank of Chicago, Illinois,
and also each one quarter section of land, owned by myself, situ-
ated in the town of Delavan, Tazewell county, Illinois, and recorded
in my name in the liecorder's otiice of said county. The north one
hundred and sixty acres of said half section is devised to my elder
dauojhter Lida Louan.
Third. I give, devise and bequeath to my son, Fred Davis
Lewis, five shares of railroad stock, in the C, B. 6z Q. Raih-oad,
and my own one hundred and sixty acres of land and sasv-mill
thereon, situated in Astoria, Illinois, with all the improvements and
appurtenances thereunto belonging, which said real estate is re-
corded in \\\\ name, in the county where situated.
Fourth. I give to my wife, Tryphena Lewis, all my household
furniture, goods, chattels, and personal property, about my house,
not hitherto disposed of, including ten thousand dollars in bank
stock, in the First National Bank of Chicago, Illinois, fifteen shares
in the Chicago, Rock Island ct Pacific Ivailroad, and the free and
unrestricted use, possession an.d benefits of the home farm, so long
as she may live, in lieu of dower, to which she is entitled by law;
said farm being my present place of residence.
Fifth. I bequeath to my invalid father. Samuel T. Lewis, Sr.,
the income from the rents of my store building, at Canton, Illinois,
during the term of his natural life. Said building and land there-
with revert to my said sons and daughters in equal proportions,
upon the demise of my said father.
Sixth. It is also my will and desire, that at the death of my
wife, Try])hena Lewis, or at any time she may arrange to relinquish
her life interest in the above mentioned homestead, the same may
revert to my above named children, or to the lawful heirs of each.
And, Lastly. I appoint as executors of this, my last will and
testament, my wife Tryphena Lewis, and my eldest son, Franklin
M. LewMs.
I further direct that my debts and necessary funeral expenses
shall be ]jaid from moneys now on deposit in the First National
Bank, Pekin, Illinois, the residue of such moneys to revert to my
wife, Tryphena Lewis, for her use forever.
In witness thereof, I, Samuel T. Lewis, to this, my last will and
testament, have hereunto set my hand and seal, this thii'd day of
March, eighteen hundred and seventy.
[L. S.] Samuel T. Lewis.
Signed, sealed and delivered by Samuel T. Lewis, as and for his
last will and testament, in the presence of us, who, at his request,
and in his presence, and in the ])resence of each other, have sub-
scribed our names hereunto as witnesses thereof.
Fred D. Stdleck, Chicago, Illinois,
Erastus Child, Oneida, Illinois.
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1 ()->")
CODICIL.
AVhereas, I, Samuel T. Lewis, did, on the third day of March,
one thousand eight hundred and seventy, make my last will and
testament, I do now, by this writing, add this codicil to my said
will, to be taken as a part thereof.
Whereas, by the dispensation of Providence, my daughter Lida
Lonan, has deceased, ^November lifth, eighteen hundred and seventy-
four, and, whereas, a son has been born to me, which son is now
christened Charles IJurchard Lewis, I give and bequeath unto him
my gold watch, and all right, interest and title in lands and bank
stock and chattels bequeathed to my deceased daughter Lida Louan,
in the body of this will
Li witness thereof, I hereunto set my hand and seal, this fifth
day of March, eighteen hundred and seventy-nine.
[L. S.] Samuel T. Lewis.
Signed, sealed, published and declared to us by the testator,
Samuel T. Lewis, as and for a codicil, to be annexed to his last will
and testament. And we, at his request, and in his presence, and in
the presence of each other, have subscribed our names as witnesses
thei'eto, at the date hereof.
Erastus Child, Oneida, 111.
E. C. Johnson, (Chicago, 111.
DESCENT.
When no will is made, the property of a deceased person is dis-
tributed as follows:
First. To his or her children and their descendants, in equal
part.^; the descendants of the deceased* child or grand child taking
the share of their deceased parents, in equal parts among them.
Second. Where there is no child, no descendant of such child,
and no widow or surviving husband, then to the parents, brothers
and sisters of the deceased, and their descendants, in equal parts,
the surviving parent, if either be dead, taking a double portion;
and if there is no parent living, then to the brotliers and sisters of
the intestate and their descendants.
Third. When there is a widow or surviving husband, and no
child or children, or descendants of the same, then one-half of the
real estate and the whole of the personal estate shall descend to
such widow or surviving husband, absolutely, and the other half of
the real estate shall descend as in other cases where there is no
child or children, or descendants of the same.
Fourth. When there is a widow or surviving Juisband, and also
1056 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
a child or children, or descendants of the latter, then one-third of
all ])ersonal estut& to the widow or surviving husband, absolutely.
Fifth. If there be no child, parent, brother or sister, or
descendants of either of them, and no widow or surviviuir husband,
then in equal parts to the next of kin to the intestate in equal
degree. Collaterals shall not be represented except with the
descendants of brother and sister of the intestate, and there shall
be no distinction between kindred of the whole and the half-blood,
S(Xth. If any intestate leaves a widow or surviving Imsband
and no kindred, then to such widow or surviving husband; and if
there is no such widow or surviving husband, it shall escheat to and
invest in the county where the same or the greater portion thereof
is situated.
DEEDS.
A deed is a sealed instrument in writino^ convevin? lands and
appurtenances thereon from one person to another, and special care
should be taken to have them signed, sealed, delivered and properly
acknowledged, with the proper seal attached. Witnesses are not
necessary. The law in this State provides that an acknowledg-
ment must be made before certain persons authorized to take the
same. These officers are: Master in Chancery, Notary Public
Circuit or County Clerk, Justice of the Peace, United States Com-
missioner, or anv Court of Hecord liavino: a seal, or anv Judge
Justice or Clerk of any such court. The instrument shall be
attested by the official sea^ of the officer taking the acknowledg-
ment, and when taken by a Justice of the Peace residing out of the
county where the real estate to be conveyed lies, there shall be
added a certificate of the County Clerk under his seal of office, that
he was a Justice of the Peace in the county at the time of taking
the same. A deed is good without such certificate attached, but
cannot be used in evidence unless such a certificate is produced or
'•ther competent evidence introduced. Acknowledgments made
'Mitof the State must either be executed accordinji: to the laws ot
this State, or there should be attached a certificate that is in conform-
ity with the laws of the State or country where executed. Where
this is not done the same may be proved by any other legal way.
Acknowledgments where the Homestead rights are to be waived
must state as follows: " Including: the release and waiver of the
right of homestead."
DUiEST OK STATK l.A\VS. lO.'x
To render a deed valid, there must be a sufficient consideration.
To enable a person to legally convey property to another, the lol-
lowing requisites are necessary: 1st, he or she must be of age:
2d, must be of sane mind; and, 3d, he or she must be the rightful
owner of the property
Any alterations or interlineations in the deed should be noted at
the bottom of the instrument, and properly witnessed. After the
acknowledgment of ^a deed, the parties have no right to make the
sli<'-htest alterations. An alteration after the acknowledgment in
favor of the grantee vitiates the deed. The maker of a deed is
called the "grantor;" the person or party to whom the deed is
delivered, the "grantee." The wife of the grantor must ackowl-
edffe the deed, or else, after the death of her husband, she will be
entitled to one-third interest in the property, as dc»wer, during her
life. Her acknowledgment of the deed must be of her own free
will and accord.
By a general warranty deed the grantor engages to secure the
grantee in any right or possession to the property conveyed against
all persons whatsoever. A quit-claim deed releases what interest
the grantor may have in the land, but does not warrant and delend
a<rainst others. We do not i<ive lorm for a deed, as printed forms
are used by all. Deeds should be recorded without delay.
MORTGAGES AND TRUST DEEDS
Are conditional conveyances of estates or property by way of
pledge for the security of debt, and to become void on payment of
it. Special care should be taken to have them signed, sealed^
delivered, and properly acknowledged, with the proper seal attached.
All kinds of property, real or personal, which are capable of an
absolute sale, may be the subject of a mortgage.
Mortgages of personal property need not be under seal. In the
absence of stipulation to the contrary, the mortgagee of personal
])roperty has the legal title thereto, and the right of possession, and
he may have an action against any one taking them from the mort-
gagor. And although the mortgage contains no express stipulation
that the mortgagor shall remain in possession until default of pay-
ment, and with a power to sell for the mortgagee's debt, the mort-
gagee may nevertheless sustain tniver against an officer attaching
the goods as the property of the mortgagor.
10.58 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
A mort^-afi^e must be in writing when it is intended to convey the
legal title. It must be in one single deed which contains the whole
contract.
Redemption must be made within one year from the sale.
Where, however, the mortgagee takes the property for an absolute
discharge of the debt, then the equity or right of redemption is
barred. Satisfaction^ or release of a mf>rtgage, may be made on
the margin of the record, or by an instrument duly acknowledged.
The wife need not join in this release.
TRUST DEEDS.
Trust deeds are taken generally in preference to mortgages,
especially by non-residents, for in case of foreclosure under the
power of sale there can be no redemption. Advertisement, sale,
and deed is made by the trustee.
Mortgages of person.al property, or chattel mortgages, can be
given for a period of only two years, and cannot be renewed or
extended. Acknowledijment mav be had before a Justice of the
Peace of the town or district in which the mortgagor resides. If
the mortgagor is a non-resident, then before any officer authorized
by law to take acknowledgments. Foreclosures may be effected
upon default, and possession, and sale of the property taken and
made; any delay will invalidate the mortgagee's lien.
LIENS.
An}^ person who shall by contract, expressed or implied, or
partly both, with the owner of any lot or tract of land, furnish
labor or material, or services as an architect or superintendent, in
Iniilding, altering, repairing, or ornamenting any house, or other
building or appurtenance thereto on such lot, or u]Jon any street or
alley, and connected with such improvements, shall have a lien
upon the whole of such lot or tract of land, and upon such house
or building and appurtenances for the amount due him for labor,
material or services. If the contract is expressed, and the time for
the completion of the work is beyond three years from the com-
mencement thereof; or, if the time of payment is beyond one year
from the time stipulated for the completion of the work, then no
lien exists. If the contract is implied, then no lien exists, unless
the Avork be done, or nuiterial furnished, within one year from the
commencement of the work or deliverv of the material. As
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1059
between diiferent creditors havin^^ liens, no preference is given to
tlie one whose contract was made first; but each shares pro rata.
Incumbrances existing upon the lot or tract of tlie land at the time
the contract is made do not operate on the improvements, and are
only preferred to the extent of the value of the land at the time of
making the contract. The above lien cannot be enforced unless
suit is commenced within six months after the last payment for
labor or materials shall have become due and payable. Sub-con-
tractors, mechanics, workmen, and other persons furnishing any
material, or performing any labor for a contractor, as above speci-
fied, have a lien to the extent of the amount due the contractor at
the time the following notice was served upon the owner of the
land who made the contract:
To : You are hereby notified that I have been employed
by [here state whether to labor or to furnish material,
and substantially the nature of the demand] upon your [here state
in general terms description and situation of building], and that I
shall hold the [building, or as the case may be], and your interest
in the ground liable for the amount that may [is or may become]
due me on account thereof, [Signature] ,
Dated, .
If there is a contract in writing between contractor and sub-con-
tractor, a copy of it should be served with the above notice, and such
notice must be served within forty days from the completion of
such sub-contract, if there is one; if not, then from the time pay-
ment should have been made to the person performing the labor
or furnishing the material. If the owner is not a resident of the
county, or cannot be found therein, then the above notice must be
filed with the Clerk of the Circuit Court, wnth his fee, fifty cents,
and a copy of such notice must be published in a newspaper pub-
lished in the county for four successive weeks.
When the owner or agent is notified as above he can retain any
money due the contractor sufiicient to pay such claim; if more
than one claim, and not enough to pay all, they are to be paid pro
rata.
The owner has a right to demand in writing a statement of the
contractor, of what he owes for labor, etc., from time to time as the
work progresses.
The liens referred to cover any and all estates, whether in fee for
lOGO DIGEST OF STAtE LAWS.
life, for years, or any other interest which the owner may iiave.
To enforce the liens of sub-contractors, suit must be commenced
within three months from the time of the performance of the sub-
contract, or during the work or iurnishing materials.
Hotel, inn*and hoarding -liouse keepers have a lien upon the
baggage and other valuables of their guests or boarders brought
into such hotel, inn, or boarding-house, by their guests or boarders
for the proper charges due from such guests or boarders for their
accommodation, board and lodging, and such extras as are furnished
at their request.
Stable-keejMrs and other persons have a lien upon the horses,
carriages and harness kept by them for the proper charges due for
the keeping thereof, and expenses bestowed tliereon at the request
of the owner, or the person having the possession of tlie same.
Agisters (jiersons who take care of cattle belonging to others)
and persons keeping, yarding, feeding, or pasturing domestic ani-
mals shall have a lien upon the animals agistered, kept, yarded or
fed for the proper charges due for such service.
All persons who may furnish any railroad corporation in this
State with fuel, ties, material, supplies, or any other article or thing
necessary for the construction, maintenance, operation or repair of
its road by contract, or may perform work or labor for the same, are
entitled to be paid as part of the current expenses of the road, and
have a lien u])on all its property. Sub-contractors or laborers have
also a lien. The conditions and limitations, both as to contractors
and to sub-contractors, are about the same as herein stated, as to
general liens.
BILL OF SALE.
A bill of sale is a written agreement to another party for a con-
sideration to convey his right and interest in the personal property.
The purchaser must take actual possession of the property. Juries
have power to determine upon the fairness or unfairness of a bill
of sale.
COMMON FORM OF BILL OF SALE.
Know All Men by this instrument, that I, B. F. Lewis, of Chi-
cago, Illinois, of the first part, for and in consideration of six hun-
dred and fifty dollars, to me paid by Columbus C. Chapman,
Astoria, Illinois, of the second ]^art, the receipt whereof is hereby
acknowledged, have sold, and by this instrument do convey unto
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
1061
the said Cliapliian, party of tlie second part, his executors, admin-
istrators, And a-si^ns, mj undivided iialf of ten acres of corn on
my farm in tlie town of Deer Creek, Illinois; one pair of horses,
twenty sheep, and five cows, belonging to me, and in my possess^ion
at the farm aforesaid; to have and to hold the same unto the ])arty
of tlie second j^art, his executors and assigns, forever. And I do,
for myself and legal representatives, agree with the said party of
tlie second part, and his legal representatives, to wai-rant and defend
the sale of the aforementioned property and chattels unto the said
party of the second part, and his legal representatives, against all
and every person whatsoever.
In witness whereof I have hereunto affixed mv hand this tenth
day of October, one thousand eight hundred and seventy-nine.
B. F. Lewis,
DAYS OF GRACE.
No check, draft, bill of exchange, promissory note, order, or
negotiable instrument, payable at sight or on demand, or on pre-
sentment, shall be entitled to days of grace. All other bills of
excliange, drafts or notes are entitled to three days of grace. All
the above-mentioned paper falling due on Sunday, New Year's day,
Fourth of July, Christmas, or any day appointed or recommended
by the President of the United States or Governor of the State as
a day of fasting or thanksgiving, shall be deemed as due on the
day previous; and should two or more of these days come together,
then such instrument shall be treated as due on the day previous to
the first of said davs.
LIMITATION OF ACTION.
The limit of time in which action may be brought on certain
things is as loUows: Open accounts, five years; notes and written
contracts, ten years; judgments, twenty years; partial payments or
new promise in writing, within or after said period, will revive
the debt; absence from the State deducted, and when the cause of
action is bai-red by the law of another State, it has the same effect
here; assault, slander, libel, replevin, one year; personal injuries,
two years; to recover land or make entry thereon, twenty years; and
sealed and witnessed instruments, as action to foreclose mortgage
or trust deed, within ten years. All persons in possession of land,
and paying taxes for seven consecutive years, with color of title, and
all persons paying taxes for seven consecutive years, with color of
title, on vacant land, shall be held to be the legal owners to the
extent of their paper title.
1 ()()2 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
RECEIPTS.
Receipts should always state when received and what for; and if
receipt is in full it should be so stated. We give two forms:
FOR MONEY ON ACCOUNT.
Received, Knoxville, 111., Nov. 10, 1878, of J. C. Cover, sixty
dollars on account. $60. J. H. Fkanklin.
FOR MONET ADVANCED ON A CONTKACT.
$100. . Galesbfrg, III., June 9, 1868.
Received of Fernando Ross, one hundred dollars, in advance, on
contract to build for him a brick house at No. 76 Kellogg street.
Samuel J. Chapman.
EXEMPTIONS FROM FORCED SALES.
The follotoing personal property and home worth $1,000, — Lot
of ground and buildings thereon, occupied as a residence by the
debtor, being a householder and having a family, to the value of
$1,000. Exemption continues after the death of the householder for
the benefit of the widow and family, some of them occupying the
homestead until the youngest shall become twenty-one years of age,
and until the death of the widow. There is no exemption from sale
for taxes, assessments, debt or liability incurred for the purchase or
improvement of said homestead. No release or waiver of exemption
is valid unless in writing and subscribed by such householder and
wife (if he has one), and acknowledged as conveyances of real estate
are required to be acknowledged.
The following articles of personal property owned by the debtor
are exempt from execution, writ of attachment, and distress for rent:
The necessary wearing apparel. Bibles, school-books and family pic-
tures of every person; and one hundred doUars'worth of other prop-
erty, to be selected by the debtor, and in addition, when the debtor
is the head of a family and resides with the same, three hundred dol-
lars' worth of other property to be selected by the debtor, — provided
that such selection and exemption shall not be made bj' the debtor
or allowed to him or her from any money,' salary or wages due him or
her from any person or persons or corporations whatever. When the
head of the family dies, deserts, or does not reside with the same,
the family shall be entitled to and receive all the benefit and priv-
ilege which are by this act conferred upon the head of a family
residing with the same. JSo personal property is exempt from exe-
DIGEST OK STATE LAWS. 1063
cution when judgment is o.btained for the wages of laborers or ser-
vants. Wages of a laborer who is tlie head of a family cannot be
garnisheed except for the sum due him in excess of $25.
LANDLORDS AND TENANTS.
The princi]ial obligation on the part of a landlord, which is in
fact always to be implied as a necessary condition to his receiving
any rent, is, that the tenant shall enjoy the quiet possession of the
premises, — which means, substantially, that he shall not be turned
out of possession of the whole or any material part of the premises
by any one having a title paramount to that of the landlord, or that
the landlord shall not himself disturb or render his occupation un-
comfortable by the erection of a nuisance on or near the premises,
or otherwise oblige him to quit possession. But if he be ousted by a
stranger, — that is, by one having no title, — or after the rent has
fallen due, or if the molestation proceeds from acts of a third person,
the landload is in neither case responsible for it. Another obligation
which the law imposes on the landlord, in the absence of any ex-
press stipulation in the lease, is the payment of all taxes chargeable
upon the property, or any ground rents or interest upon mortgages
to which it may be subject. Ever}' landlord is bound to protect his
tenant against all paramount claims. And if a tenant is comj)elled,
in order to protect himself in the enjoyment of the land in respect
of which his rent is payable, to make payment which ought, as be-
tween himself and his landlord, to have been" made by the latter, he
may call upon the landlord to reimburse him, or he may deduct
such payment from the rent due or to become due. But the land-
lord is under no obligation to make repairs, or to rebuild in case the
premises should be burned; nor does he guaranty that they are
reasonably fit for the purpose for which they are taken. And it is
not in the power of a tenant to make repairs at the expense of his
landlord, unless there be a special agreement between them author-
izing him to do so; for the tenant takes the premises for better or
worse, and cannot involve the landlord in expense for repairs without
his consent. Even if the premises have become uninhabitable by
fire, and the landlord, having insured tliem, has recovered the
insurance money, the tenant cannot compel him to expend the
money so recovered in rebuilding, unless he has expressly engaged
to do so ; nor can he in such an event protect himself from the payment
of rent during the unexpired balance of the term, unless exempted
10G4 DTGKST OF STATE LAWS.
therefrom by statute or the terms of the lease. The uninhabit-
ableness of a house is not a good defense to an action for rent. If
the landlord expressly covenanted to repair, the tenant cannot quit
and discharge himself of rent because the repairs are not made, un-
less there is a provision to that eflect; and if a landlord is bound by
custom or by express agreement to repair, this obligation, and the
obligation of the tenant to pay rent, are independent of each other,
so that the refusal or neglect of the landlord to repair is no answer
to a demand for rent. The tenant is answerable for anv neglect to
repair highways, fences, or party walls. He is also liable for all
injuries produced by the mismanagement of his servants, or by a
nuisance kept upon the premises, or by an obstruction of the high-
ways adjacent to them, or the like. One of the principal obligations
which the law imposes upon every tenant, independent of any agree-
ment, is to treat the premises in such a manner that no substantial
injury shall be done to them, an ! so that they may revert to the
landlord at the end of the term unimpaired by any willful or negli-
gent conduct on his part.
A tenancy from year to year requires sixtj' days' notice in writing
to terminate the same at the end of the year; such notice can be
given at any time within four months preceding the last sixty days
of the year.
A tenancy by the month, or less than a year, where the tenant
holds over without any special agreement, the landlord may termi-
nate the tenancv bv tliirtv davs' notice in writing.
When rent is due, the landlord may serve a notice upon the ten-
ant, stating that unless the rent is paid within not less than tive
days, his lease will be terminated; if the rent is not paid, the land-
lord may consider the lease ended. When a default is made in any
of the terms of the lease, it shall not be necessary to give more
than ten days' notice to quit or of the termination of such tenancy;
and the same may be terminated on giving such notice to quit, at
any time at"ter such default in any of tlie terms of such lease;
which notice may be substantially in the following form:
To , You are hereby notified that, in consequence of your
default [here insert the ciiaracter of the default], of the premises
now occupied Ity you, being, etc., [here describe the premises], I
have elected to determine your lease, and you are hereby notified to
quit and deliver up possession of the same to me within ten days of,
this date [dated, etc].
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1065
The above to be sii^ned by the lessor or his agent, and no other
notice or demand of possession or termination of such tenancy is
necessary.
Demand may be made or notice served by delivering a written or
printed, or partly either, copy thereof to the tenant, or leaving the
same with some person above the age of twelve years, residing on
or in poss'ession of the premises; and in case no one is in actual
possession of said premises, then by posting the same on the prem-
ises. When the tenancy is for a certain time, and the term expires
by the terms of the lease, the tenant is then bound to surrender
possession, and no notice to quit or demand possession is necessary,
DISTRESS FOR RENT.
In all cases of distress for rent, the landlord, by himself, his agent
or his attorney, may seize for rent any personal property of his ten-
ant that may be found in the county where the tenant resides. The
property of any other person, even if found on the premises, is not
liable.
An inventory of the property levied upon, with a statement of
the amount of rent claimed, should be at once filed with some
Justice of the Peace, if not over $200; and if above that sum, with
the Clerk of a Court of Record of competent jurisdiction. Property
may be released by a party executing a satisfactory bond for double
the amount.
The landlord may distrain for rent any time within six months
after the expiration of the term of lease, or when terminated.
In all cases where the premises rented shall be sub-let, or the
lease assigned, the landlord shall have the same right to enforce
lien against such lessee or assignee, that he has against the tenant
to whom the premises were rented.
When a tenant abandons or removes from the premises, or any
part thereof, the landlord, or his agent or his attorney may seize
upon any grain or crops grown or growing upon the premises, or
part thereof so abandoned, whether the rent is due or not. If such
grain or other crops, or any part thereof, is not fully grown or
matured, the landlord, or his agent or attorney shall cause the same
to be properly cultivated, harvested or gathered, and may sell the
same, and from the proceeds pay all his labor, expenses and rent.
The tenant may, before the sale of such property, redeem the same
10G4 DIGKST OF STATE LAWS.
therefrom bv statute or the terras of the lease. The uninhabit-
ableness of a house is not a good defense to an action for rent. If
the landlord expressly covenanted to repair, the tenant cannot quit
and discharge himself of rent because the repairs are not made, un-
less there is a provision to thateflect; and if a landlord is bound by
custom or by express agreement to repair, this obligation, and the
obligation of the tenant to pay rent, are independent of each other,
so that the refusal or neglect of the landlord to repair is no answer
to a demand for rent. The tenant is answerable for any neglect to
repair highways, fences, or party walls. He is also liable for all
injuries produced by the mismanagement of his servants, or by a
nuisance kept upon the premises, or by an obstruction of the high-
ways adjacent to them, or the like. One of the principal obligations
which the law imposes upon every tenant, independent of an v agree-
ment, is to treat the premises in such a manner that no substantial
iniurv shall be done to them, an J so that thev mav revert to the
landlord at the end of the term unimpaired by any willful or negli-
gent conduct on his part.
A tenancy from year toj'ear requires sixty days' notice in writing
to terminate the same at the end of the year; such notice can be
given at any time within four months preceding the last sixty days
of the year.
A tenancy by the month, or less than a year, where the tenant
holds over without any special agreement, the landlord may termi-
nate the tenancv bv tliirtv davs' notice in writing.
AVhen rent is due, the landlord may serve a notice upon the ten-
ant, stating that unless the rent is paid within not less than live
days, his lease will be terminated; if the rent is not paid, the land-
lord ma}' consider the lease ended. When a default is made in any
of the terms of the lease, it shall not be necessary to give more
than ten daj^s' notice to quit or of the termination of such tenancy;
and the same may be terminated on giving such notice to quit, at
any time after such default in any of the terms of such lease;
which notice may be substantially in the following form:
To , You are hereby notified that, in consequence of your
default [here insert the character of the default], of the prenjises
now occupied by you, being, etc., [here describe the premises], I
have elected to determine your lease, and you are ht-reby notified to
quit and deliver up jiossession of the same to me within ten days of.
this date [dated, etc].
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1065
The above to be signed by the lessor or his ao-ent, and no other
notice or demand of possession or termination of such tenancy is
necessary.
Demand may be made or notice served by deliverin<^ a written or
printed, or partly either, copy thereof t(^ the tenant, or leaving the
same with some person above the age of twelve years, residing on
or in possession of the premises; and in case no one is in actual
possession of said premises, then by posting the same on the prem-
ises. When the tenancy is for a certain time, and the term expires
by the terms of the lease, the tenant is then bound to surrender
possession, and no notice to quit or demand possession is necessary.
DISTRESS FOR RENT.
In all cases of distress for rent, the landlord, by himself, his agent
or his attorney, may seize for rent any personal property of his ten-
ant that may be found in the county where the tenant resides. The
property of any other person, even if found on the premises, is not
liable.
An inventory of the property levied upon, with a statement of
the amount of rent claimed, should be at once filed with some
Justice of the Peace, if not over $200; and if above that sum, with
the Clerk of a Court of Record of competent jurisdiction. Property
may be released by a party executing a satisfactory bond for double
the amount.
The landlord may distrain for rent any time within six months
after tiie expiration of the term of lease, or when terminated.
Ill all cases where the premises rented shall be sub-let, or the
lease assigned, the landlord shall have the same right to enforce
lien against such lessee or assignee, that he has against the tenant
to whom the premises were rented.
When a tenant abandons or removes from the premises, or any
part thereof, the landlord, or his agent or his attorney may seize
upon any grain or crops grown or growing upon the premises, or
part thereof so abandoned, whether the rent is due or not. If such
grain or other crops, or any part thereof, is not fully grown or
matured, the landlord, or his agent or attorney shall cause the same
to be properly cultivated, harvested or gathered, and may sell the
same, and from the proceeds pay all his labor, expenses and rent.
The tenant may, before the sale of such property, redeem the same
lOGB nrrxEPT of state laws.
bj tendering the rent and reasonable compensation for the work
done, or he may replevy the same.
EXEMPTION.
The same articles of personal property which are by law exempt
from execution, except the crops, as above mentioned, are also
exempt from distress for rent. «
If any tenant is about to, or shall permit, or attempt to sell or
remove from the premises, without the consent of his landlord,
such portion of the crops raised thereon as will endanger the lien
of the landlord upon such crops, for the rent, it shall be lawful for
the landlord to distress before rent is due.
CRIMINAL LAW
Is that branch of jurisprudence which treats of criminal offenses.
The extreme injportance of a knowledge of criminal law is self-
evident; for a mistake in point of law, which every person of dis-
cretion not only may know, but is bound and presumed to know, is
in criminal cases no defense. This law is administered upon the
principle that every one must be taken conclusively to know it,
without proof that he does know it. This doctrine has been carried
so far as to include the case of a foreigner charged with a crime
which was no offense in his own country.^ And further, the
criminal law, whether common or statute, is imperative with refer-
ence to the conduct of individuals; so that, if a statute forbids or
commands a thing to be done, all acts or omissions contrary to the
prohibition or command of the statute are offenses at common law,
and ordinarily indictable as such. "When a statute punishes a
crime by its legal designation without enumerating the acts which
constitute it, then it is necessary to resort to the common law for a
definition of the crime with its distinctions and qualificatio?is. So»
if an act is made criminal, l)ut no mode of prosecution is directed
or no punishment provided, the common law (in the absence of a
statute to the contrary) furnishes its aid, prescribing the mode of
prosecution by indictment, and its mode of punishment by fine and
inprisonment. So far. therefore, as the rules and principles of com-
mon law are applicable to the administration of the criminal law,
and have not been altered or moditied by legislation .or judicial
decisions, they have the same force and effect as laws finally enacted.
muiiST OF STATE LAWS. 1 ()()";
The following are some of the leading jjrinciples of the criminal
law:
1. Every man is [)resiimed to be innocent till the contrary is
shown; and if there is any reasonable cii>ubt of his guilt, he is en-
titled to the benefit of tlfe doubt.
2. In general, no [)ersou can be brought to trial till a grand jury
on examination of the charge has found reason to hold him to trial.
3. The prisoner is entitled to trial by a jury of his peers, who are
chosen from the body of the people with a view to impartiality, and
whose decision on questions of facts is final.
4. The question of his guilt is to be determined without reference
to his general character, previous history, or habits of life.
5. The prisoner cannot be required to criminate himself, nor be
compelled even to exculpate himself by giving his own testimony
on trial.
6. He cannot be twice put in jeopardy for the same ofiense.
T. He cannot be punished for an act which was not an offense by
the law existing at the time of its commission; nor can a serverer
punishment be inflicted than was declared by the law at the time of
its commission.
Crimes are sometimes classified according to the degree of pun-
ishment incurred by their commission.- They are more generally
arranged according to the nature of the offense. The following is,
perhaps, as complete a classification as the subject admits:
I. Offenses against the sovereignti/ of the State — 1, treason; 2
misprision of treason.
II. Offenses against the lives and persons of individuals — 1,
murder; 2, manslaughter; 3, attempt to kill or murder; 4, may-
hem; 5, rape ; 6, robbery. 7, kidnapping; 8, false imprisonment;
9, abduction; 10, assault and battery.
III. Off'enses against j^uhlic property — 1, burning or destroying
public property; 2, injury to same.
lY. Offenses against private propertij — 1, arson; 2, burglary;
3, larceny; 4, obtaining goods under false pretenses; 5, embezzle-
ment ; 6. malicious mischief.
V. Offenses against jmhlic justice — 1, perjury; 2, bribery; 3,
destroying public records; 4, counterfeiting ])ublic seals ; 5, jail
breach; 6, escape; 7, resistance to officers; 8, obstructing legal
process; 9, barratry; 10, maintenance; 11, champerty; 12, con-
106S DIGEST OF STATE LAAVS.
tempt of court; 13, oppression; 14, extortion; l.j, suppression of
evidence; 1(5, compounding felony; 17, misprision of felony.
VI. Offenses against the public peace — 1, challenging or accept-
ing a challenge to a duel;.. 2, unlawful assembly; 3, rows; 4, riot;
5, breach of the peace; 6, libel.
VII. Offenses agaiwit chastity— 1^ sodomy; 2, bestiality; 3,
adultery; 4, incest; 5, bigamy; 6, seduction; 7, fornication; 8,
lascivious carriage; 9, keeping and frequenting houses of ill-fame.
VIII. Of enses against public 2iolicy — ■!, false currency; 2, lot-
teries; 3, gambling; 4, immoral shovs^s; 5, violation of the right
of suffrage; 6, destruction of game, fish, etc.; 7, nuisance.
IX. Offenses against the currency^ and public and private
securities — 1, forgery; 2, counterfeiting; 3, passing counterfeit
money.
X. Offenses against religion and morality — 1, blasphemy; 2,
profanity; 3, Sabbath-breaking; 4, obscenity; 5, cruelty to ani-
mals; 6, drunkenness; 7, promoting intemperance.
XI. Offenses against the public^ individuals^ 07' their property
— 1, conspiracy.
TAXES.
The owners of real and personal property, on the first day of
March of each year, are lial>le for taxes thereon.
Assessments should be completed before the fourth Monday in
June, at which time the Town Board of Review meets to examine
assessments, hear objections, and make such changes as ought to be
made. The County Board have also power to correct or change
assessments.
The tax-books are placed in the hands of the Town Collector on
or before the teutli day of December, who retains them until the
tenth day of March following, when he is required to return them
to the County Treasurer, who then collects all delinquent taxes.
No costs accrue on real estate taxes until advertised, which takes
place on the first day of April, when three weeks' notice is required
before judgment. Cost of advertising, twenty cents each tract of
land, and ten cents each lot.
Judgment is usually obtained at the May term of County Court.
Costs six cents each tract of land, and five cents each lot. Sale
takes place in June. Costs, in addition to those mentioned, twen-
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1060
ty-eight cents each tract of laad, and twenty-seven cents each
town lot.
Real estate sold for taxes may be redeemed any time before the
expiration of two years from the date of sale by payment to the
County Clerk of the amount for which it was sold, and twenty-five
per cent, thereon if redeemed within six months, tiity per cent, if
redeemed between six and twelve months; if between twelve and
eighteen months, seventy-five per cent., and if batween eighteen
months and two years, one hundred per cent. ; and, in addition, all
subsequent taxes paid by the purchaser, with ten per cent, interest
thereon; also, one dollar each tract, if notice is given by the pur-
chaser of the sale, and a fee of twenty-five cents to the Clerk for
his certificate.
SUBSCRIPTION.
The selling of books by subscription is so frequently brought
into disrepute by agents making representations not authorized by
the publishers, that the public are often swindled. That there
may be more general knowledge of the relation such agents bear
to their principal, and the law governing such cases, we give the
following rules, which, if followed, will save a great deal of trouble
and perhaps serious loss.
A subscription is the placing of a signature below a written or
printed engagement. It is the act by. which a person contracts, in
writing, to furnish a sum of money for a particular purpose: as, a
subscription to a charitable institution, a subscription for a book,
and the like. In the case of a book, the consideration is concur-
rent that the publisher shall publish the book named, and deliver
the same, for which the subscriber is to pay the price named. The
prospectus and sample should be carefully examined before sub-
scribing, as they are the basis and consideration of the promise to
pay, and not the too often exaggerated statements of the agent,
who is merely employed to solicit subscriptions, for which he
usually receives a commission for each subscriber, and has no
authority to change or alter the conditions upon which the sub-
scriptions are authorized to be made by the publishers. Should
the agent assume to agree to make the subscription conditional, or
modify or change the agreement of the publisher, as set. out by
the prospectus and sample, in order to bind the publishers, the
1070 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
subscriber should see that such condition or change is stated over,
or in connection with his signature, so the publishers may have
notice of the same.
When several persons promise to contribute to a common object,
desii'ed by all, the promise of each may be a good consideration for
the promise of others. In general subscriptions on certain condi-
tions in favor of the party subscribing, are binding when the acts
stipulated are performed. Subscription is in the nature of a con-
tract of mutual promises. All persons should remember that the
law as to written contracts is, that they can not he altered^ varied^ or
rescinded verbally, but if done at all, must be done in writing. It
is therefore important that all persons contemplating subscribing
should distinctly understand that all talk before or after the sub-
scription is made is not admissible as evidence, and is no part of
the contract. Persons before signing their names to any subscrip-
tion book, or any written instrument, should carefully examine
what it is; if they cannot read, they should call on some one dis-
interested who can.
Persons who solicit subscriptions are known to the trade as can-
vassers. They are agents appointed to do a particular business in
u prescribed mode, and have no authority to do it in any other way
to the prejudice of their principal, nor can they bind their principal
in any other matter. They can not collect money, or agree that
payment may be made in anything else than money. They cannot
extend the time of payment beyond the time of delivery, nor bind
their principal for payment of expenses incurred in their business.
Where you pay money to an agent you should satisfy yourself of
his authority to collect money for his employer.
CONTRACT FOR PERSONAL SERVICES.
When a contract is entire and has been only partiallj- fulfilled,
the party in fault may nevertheless recover from the other partv iov
the actual benefit received and retained by the other party, less the
danuiges sustained by such other party by reason of the partial
non-fulfillment of the contract. This may be done in all cases
where the other party has received benefit from the partial fulfill-
ment of the contract, whether he has so received the same from
choice or from the necessities of the case. Where D hired B to
work for him for seven months at $15 per month, and B worked
DIGEST OF STATK LAWS. 1071
for D only lifty-nine days, and then quit without any reasonable
excuse therefor, it was held that B might nevertheless recover fVom
D for what the work was reasonably worth, less any daniai>t> that
D may have sustained by reason of the partial non-fulfilhnent of /
the contract.
NEWSPAPER LIBEL.
Allowing the most liberal rule as to the liability of persons in
public employment to criticism for their conduct in which the
pul)lic are interested, there never has been a rule which subjected
persons, private or public, to be falsely traduced. No publication
is privileged except a bona fide representation, made without
malice, to the proper authority, complaining on reasonable grounds.
The nearest approach to this license is where the person vilified
presents himself before the body of the public as a candidate for an
elective office. But even then there is no doctrine which will sub-
ject him without remedy to every species of malevolent attack.
TENDER.
If the tender be of money, it can be a defense only when made
before the action was brought. A tender does not bar the debt as
a payment would, for in general he is bound to pay the sum which
he tendered, whenever he is required to do so. But it puts a stop
to accruing damages or interest for delay in payment, and saves
the defendant costs. It need not be made by the defendant person-
ally; if made by a third person, at his request, it is sufficient; and
if made by a stranger without his knowledge or request, a subse-
quent assent of the debtor will operate as a ratification of the
agency, and make the tender good. Any person may make a valid
tender for an idiot. If an agent, furnished with money to make a
tender, at his own risk tender more, it is good. So, a tender need
not be made to a creditor personally; but it must be made to an
agent actually authorized to receive the money. If the money be
due to several jointly, it may be tendered to either, but must be
pleaded as made to all. The whole sum due must be tendered, as
the creditor is not bound to receive a part of his debt. If the
tender be of the whole debt, it is valid. If the obligation be in the
alternative, one thing or another, as the creditor may choose, the
tender should be of both, that he may make his choice. To make
a tender of money valid the money must be actually produced and
1 07*2 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
proffered, unless the creditor expressly or impliedly waives this
production. The debtor is not bound to count out the money, if he
has it and ofters it. No conditions must be annexed to the tender,
which the creditor can have any good reason whatever lor objecting
to; as for instance, that he should give a receipt in full of all
demands. The tender should be made in money made lawful by
the State in which it is offered. Generally, a tender is valid and
effectual if made at any time after the debt is due; and a demand
made after the tender if for more than the sum tendered, will not
avoid the tender. Certainly not, if the demand is for more than
the real debt, although the excess was for ai;other debt truly due.
Tender of C/iattels. — The thing tendered ma\'not be mone}-, but
some specific article. If one is bound to deliver chattels at a partic-
ular time and place, it may not be enough if he has them there; they
may be mingled with others of a like kind which he is not to
deliver. Or they may need some act of separation, or identifica-
tion, or completion, before they could become the property of the
other party. Generally, if no time or place be specified, the articles
are to be delivered where they are at the time of the contract,
unless collateral circumstances designate a difierent place. If the
time be fixed, but not the place, then it will be presumed that the
deliverer was to bring the articles to the receiver at that time, and
for that purpose he must go with the chattels to the residence of the
receiver, unless something in their very nature or use, or some other
circumstances of equivalent force, distinctly implies that they are
to be left at some other place. It may happen, from the cumbrous-
nessof the chattels or other circumstances, that it is reasonable and
just for the deliverer to ascertain from the receiver, long cnouo-h
beforehand, where they shall be delivered; and then he would be
held to this as a legal obligation. So, too, in such a case, the
receiver would have a right to designate to the detiner, a reasonable
time beforehand, a place of delivery reasonably convenient to both
parties, and the deliverer would be bound by such directions. If
no place be indicated, and the deliverer is not in fault in this, he
may deliver the chattels to the receiver, in person, at any place
which is reasonably convenient. And if the receiver refuses or
neglects to appoint any place, or purposely avoids receiving notice
of a place, the deliverer may appoint any place, with a reasonable
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1 07o
regard to the convenience of the other party, and there deliver the
articles.
If the pr<-imise be to pay at a certain time, or deliver certain
chattels, it is a promise in the alternative; and the alternative
belongs to the promisor; he ma}' do either the one or the other, at
his election; nor need he make his election nntil the time when the
promise is to be performed; but after that day has passed without
election on his part, the promisee has an absolute right to the
money, and may bring his action for it. A contract to deliver a
certain quantity of merchandise at a certain time means, of course,
to deliver the whole then. If by the terms of the contract certain
specific articles are to be delivered at a certain time and place in pay-
ment of an existing debt, this contract is fully discharged and the
debt is paid, by a complete and legal tender of the articles at the
time and place, although the promisee was not there to receive
them; and no action can thereafter be maintained on the contract.
But the property in the goods has passed to the creditor, and he
may retain them as his own.
DRUNKENNESS
Is the condition of a person who is under the immediate influence
of intoxicating liquors. This condition presents various degrees of
intensity, ranging from a simple exhilaration to a state of utter
unconsciousness and insensibility.
The common law shows but little disposition to aiSord relief,
either in civil or criminal cases, from tlie immediate effects of
drunkenness. It has never considered drunkenness alone as a suffi-
cient reason for invalidating any act.
When carried so far as to deprive the party of all consciousness^
strong presumption of fraud is raised; and on that ground courts
may interfere.
Courts of equity decline to interfere in favor of parties pleading
intoxication in the performance of a civil act.
The law does, however, recognize two kinds of inculpable drunk-
enness, viz.: that which is produced by the '' unskillfulness of his
physician," and that which is produced by the "contrivance of
enemies." To this may be added cases where a party drinks no
more liquor than he has habitually used without being intoxicated,
and which exerts an unusually potent effect on the brain in con-
sequence of certain pathological conditions.
1074 DiGKSr OK STATE LAWS.
MARRIAGE COMRACT.
Marriage is a contract, made in due tbrni of law, by which a man
and woman reciprocally engage to live with each other during their
joint lives, and to discharge towards each other the duties imposed
by law on the relation of husband and wife. TJie marriage contract
is in law a civil contract, to whicli the consent of the parties is
essential. Tiie marriage relation can only be entered into, main-
tained, and abrogated as provided by law. It is dissolved by death
or divorce. A marriage which is valid by the law of the country
in which it is contracted, is valid in this State. To make a valid
marriage, the parties must be lailling to contract, able to contract,
and have actually contracted. All persons are able to contract
marriage unless they are under the legal age, or unless there be
other disability; the age of consent at common law is fourteen in
males and twelve in females. When a person under this age mar-
ries, such person can, when he or she arrives at the age above speci-
fied, avoid the marriage, or such person or both may, if the other is
of legal age, confirm it; if either of the parties is under seven, the
marriage is void. If either of the party is non compos mentis or
insane, or has a husband or wife living, the marriage is void.
The parties must'eacii be willing to marry the other. If either
party acts under compulsion, or is under duress, the marriage is
voidable.
The husband is bound to receive his wife at home, and should fur-
nish her with all the necessaries and conveniencies which his for-
tune enables him to do, and which her situation requires, but this
does not include such luxuries as, according to her fancy, she deems
necessaries. He is bound to love his wife and bear with her faults,
and, if possible, by mild means, to correct them; and he is required
to fulfill towards her his marital promise of fidelity.
Being the head of the family, the husband has a right to estab-
lish himself wherever he may please, and in this he cannot be con-
trolled by his wife; he may manage his affairs in his own way, buy
and sell all kinds of personal property, without her control, and he
may buy any real estate he may deem proper; but as the wife
acquires a right in the latter, he cannot sell it without her consent.
A wife is under obligations to love, honor and obey her husband,
and is bound to follow him wherever in the country he may go and
establish himself, provided it is not for other causes unreasonable.
DIGKST OP' STATE LAWS. 1075
She is under obligation to be faithful in cliastit}- to her marriage
vow. A wife has the right to the love and protecting care of her
husband; slie has the right to share his bed and board; she can call
upon her husband to provide her with the necessary food and
clothing, according to her position in life, and if he neglects or re-
fuses to do so, she can procure them on his account.
MARRIED WOMEN
May bargain, sell, and convey their real and personal pi-operty, and
enter into contracts with reference to the same. The wife may be
tlie agent of the husband, and transact for him business, making,
accepting or endorsing bills or notes, purchasing goods, rendering
bills, collecting money and receipting for the same, and in general,
entering into any contract so as to bind him, if she has his authority
to do so. And while they continue to live together, the law con-
siders the wife as clothed with authority by the husband to buy for
him and his family all things necessary, in kind and quantity, for
the proper support of his family; and for such purchases made by
her he is liable. The husband is responsible for necessaries sup-
plied to his wife, if he does not supply them himself, and he
continues so liable if he turns her out of his house or otherwise
separates himself from, her, without good cause. But he is not so
liable if she deserts him, (without extreme provocation) or if he
turns her away for good cause. Tf she leaves him because he treats
her so ill that she has good right to go from him and his house,
this is the same thing as turning her away; and she carries with her
his credit for all necessaries supplied to her. But what the mis-
conduct must be to give this right, is uncertain. But the law un-
dmibtedly is, that the wife is not obliged to stay and endure cruelty
or indecency. It is also held, that if a man lives with a woman as
his wife, and represents her to be so, he is liable for necessaries sup-
plied to her, and her contracts, in the same way as if she were his wife*
The statutes intend to secure to a married woman all her riijhts.
But many women about to marry — or their friends for them —
often wish to secure to them certain powers and rights, and to limit
these in certain ways or to make sure that their property is in safe
and skillful hands. This can only be done by conveying and trans-
ferring the property to trustees; that is, to certain persons to hold
the same in trust.
1076 DIGKST OF STATK LAWS.
A married woman may sue and be sued. At the death <>i' tho
liusband, in addition to the widow's award, a married woman lias a
dower interest [one-third] in all real estate owned by her husband
after their marriao^e, and which has not been released by her, and
the husband has the same interest in the real estate of the wife,
after her death.
SCHOOL MONTH.
NUMBER OF DAYS IN A SCHOOL MONTH TEACHEKS' HOLIDAYS.
The law of this State says that a school month shall comprise
twenty-two school days, actually taught. It also provides that
teachers shall not be required to teach on legal holidays, thanks-
giving or fast-days, appointed by State or National authority.
SCHOOL children's STUDIES.
The rulino;s of courts are that the trustees of a school district
may prescribe what studies sliall be pursued, and may regulate the
classification of the pupils; but that a parent may select, from the
branches pursued, those which the child shall study, so long as the
exercise of such selection does not interfere with the system pre-
scribed for the school ; that the child cannot be excluded from one
study simply because he is deficient in another;, the rule requiring
his exclusion is unreasonable, and cannot be enforced.
INFANTS
Can make a binding contract for necessaries only. An infant can
never bind himself even for necessaries when he has a parent or
guardian who supplies his wants. What are considered necessaries
depend upon the rank and circumstances of the intant in tlie par-
ticular case. All his other contracts are considered voidahle and
void. An infant's contract on a bill or note is voidable. His
liability may be established by ratification after full age.
The confirmation or ratification must be distinct, and with a knowl-
edge that lie is not liable on the contract. A mere acknowledgment
of a debt, or a payment of a part of it, will not support an action
an such a contract. When an infant indorses negotiable notes or
bills he does not pass any interest in them as against himself; his
act is voidable, but neither the acceptor nor subsequent indorser
can oblige his infancy to evade their liability; nor can the drawer
of a bill set up the infancy of a payee and indorser as a defense to
DIGEST OF STATE I.AW8. 1077
an action thereon ati^ainst himself. An infant may sue on a l)ill,
but he sues by his guardian or next friend, and payment should
accordinijlv be made to him.
Parties contracting with an infant assume all the inconveniences
incident to the protection which the law allows him. In law
intancv extends to the age of twenty-one 3^ears.
ADOPTION OF CHILDREN.
Children may be adopted by auy resident of this State by filing
a petition in the Circuit or County Court of the county in which
he resides, asking leave to do so; and, if desired, may ask that the
name of the child be changed. Such petition, if made by a person
having a husband or wife, will not be granted unless the husband
and wife joins therein, as the adoption must be by them jointly.
The petition shall state name, sex, and age of child, and the new
name, if it is desired to change the name; also, the name and resi-
dence of the parents of the child, if known, and of the guardian,
if any, and whether the parents or guardian consent to the
adoption.
The Court must find, before granting decree, that the parents of
the child, or the survivors of them, have deserted his or her family,
or such child, for one year next preceding the application; or, if
neither is living, that the guardian (if no guardian, the next of
kin in this State capable of giving consent) has had notice of the
presentation of the petition, and consents to such adoption. If
the child is at the age of fourteen or upwards, the adoption cannot
be made without its consent.
CHURCH ORGANIZ.\TIONS
May be legally made by electing or appointing, according to the
usages or customs of the body of which it is a part, at any meeting
held lor that purpose, two or more of its members or trustees, war-
dens or vestrymen, and may adopt a corporate name. The Chair-
man or Secretary of such meeting shall, as soon as possible, make
and file in the office of the Recorder of Deeds of the county an
affidavit substantially in the following form:
State of Illinois, )
County. )
I, , do solemnly swear [or affirm, as the case may be]
that at a meeting of the members of the [here insert the name of
i078 DiGE-iT OF -;tate laws.
the churcli, society, or congregation, as known before organization]
held at [here insert the place of meeting], in the County of ,
and State of Illinois, on the dav of , A. I). 18 — . for
that purpose, the following persons were elected [or appointed;
here insert tlie names] trustees, wardens, vestrymen [or officers by
whatever name they may choose to adopt, with power similar to
trustees], according to the rules and usages of such [churth,
society, or congregation], and said adopted as its corporate
name [here insert name], and at said meeting this affiant acted as
[Chairman or Secretary, as the case may be].
Subscribed and sworn to before me this day of ,
A. D. 18 — . [Name of affiant] .
Which affidavit must be recorded by the Recorder, and shall be,
or a certified copy made by the Recorder, received as evidence of
such corporation,
JSJo certificate of election after the first need be filed for record.
The term of office of the trustees, and the general government of
the society can be determined by the rules and by-laws adopted.
Failure to elect trustees at the time provided does not work a dis-
solution, but the old trustees hold over. A trustee or trustees may
be removed, in the same manner, by the society, as elections are
held by a meeting called for that purpose. The property of the
society rests in the corporation. The corporation raa^'^ hold, or
acquire by purchase or otherwise, land not exceeding ten acres, for
the purpose of the society. The trustees have the care, custody
and control of the property of the corporation, and can, ichen
directed by the society, erect houses or improvements, and repair
and alter the same, and may also when so directed by the society,
mortgage, encumber, sell and convey any real or personal estate
belonging to the corporation, and make all proper contracts in the
name of such corporation. But they are prohibited by law from
encumbering or interfering with any property so as to destro}' the
effect of any gift, grant, devise or bequest to the corporation: but
such gifts, grants, devises or bequests must in all cases be used so
as to carry out the object intended by the persons making the same.
Existinor churches may organize in the manner herein set forth, and
have all the advantages thereof.
GIME
Consists of birds and beasts of a wild nature, obtained by fowling
and hunting. The last few years have shown a general interest by
DIGEST OK STATi; LAWS. 1070
the people iu having wise and jnst laws passed for the protection of
fish and game. It is apparent to ;ill that, unless these laws are
vigorously enforced, the time will soon come when fish and game
will be so scarce as to be within the reach of only the wealtliy.
Under proper regulations onr streams of pure i-nnning water would
all be filled with fish, as in other years, and our prairies, fields and
forests alive with their great variety of game. It is a question that
interests all, and the game laws should be enforced.
The following are sections 1 and 6 of the Game Law of 1873, of
this State, as amended by the act approved May 14th, 1877:
Sec, 1. That it shall be unlawful for any person or persons to
hunt or pursue, kill or trap, net or ensnare, destroy, or attempt to
kill, trap, net, ensnare, or otherwise destroy any prairie hen or
chicken, or any woodcock, between the 15th day of January and the
1st day of September in each and every year; or any deer, fawn,
wild turkey, rnfi'ed grouse (commonly called partridge), or pheas-
ant, between the 1st day of Februarj' and the 1st day of October
in each and every year; or any quail between the 1st day of Feb-
ruary and the 1st da.y of November in each and every year; or any
wild goose, duck, snipe, brant, or other waterfowl between the 1st
day of May and the 15th da}^ of August in each and every year:
Provided, That it shall be unlawful for any person or persons to
net any quail at any time after this act shall take effect and be in
force; and provided further^ That it shall be unlawful for any per-
son or persons who is or are non-residents of this State to kill,
ensnare, net or trap any deer, fawn, wild turkey, prairie hen or
chicken, ruffed grouse, quail, woodcock, wild goose, wild duck or
brant, or any snipe, in any county of this State, at any time, for
the purpose of selling or marketing or removing the same outside
of this State. Every person who violates any of the provisions of
this section shall, for each and every offense, be deemed guilty of a
misdemeanor, and on conviction shall be fined not less than five dol-
lars (§5) nor more than twenty-five dollars ($25) and costs of suit for
each and every separate bird or animal of the above enumerated
list, so unlawfully hunted or pursued, killed, trapped, netted,
ensnared, or destroyed or attempted to be killed, trapped, netted,
ensnared, or otherwise destroyed, and shall stand committed to the
county jail until such fine and costs are paid, but such imprison-
ment shall not exceed ten days.
1081 DIGEST OK STATE LAWS.
Sec. 6. No person or persons shall sell or expose for sale, or
have in his or their possession for the purj)0se of selling or expos-
ing for sale, any of the animals, wild fowls or birds mentioned in
section 1 of this act, after the expiration of five days next succeed-
ing the first day of the period in which it shall be unlawful to
kill, trap, net, or ensnare such animals, wild fowls or birds. And
any person so oifending shall, on conviction, be fined and dealt with
as specified in Section 1 of this act: Provided., That the provisions
of this act shall not apply to the killing of birds by or for the use
of taxidermists for preservation either in public or private collec-
tions, if so preserved.
The fifteenth of January, it will be observed, is the date when the
prohibition begins to work as to prairie chickens and woodcock;
the first of February is the date for most other sorts of game,
except waterfowl. And five days after the prohibition against kill-
ing goes into force, it becomes unlawful to sell or expose for sale
the prohibited game.
PRESERVATION OF OTHER BIRDS.
It may be appropriate to mention here that Sections 3 and 4 of
the act of 1873, wliich are not changed or aftected by the act of
1877, are as follows:
Sec. 3. No person shall at any time, within this State, kill or
attempt to trap, net, ensnare, destroy or kill any robin, bluebird,
swallow, martin, mosquito hawk, whippoorwill, cuckoo, woodpecker,
catbird, brown-thrasher, red-bird, hanging-bird, buzzard, sparrow,
wren, humming-bird, dove, gold-finch, mocking bird, blue-jay, finch,
thrush, lark, cherry-bird, yellow-bird, oriole, or bobolink, nor rob or
destroy the nests of such birds, or either or any of them. And
any person so offending shall on conviction be fined the sum of five
dollars for each and every bird so killed, and for each and every nest
robbed or destroyed: Provided, that nothing in this section shall
be construed to prevent the owner or occupant of lands from
destroying any of the birds herein named on the same, when deemed
necessary for the protection of fruits or property.
Sec. 4. It shall be unlawful for any person or persons to destroy
or remove from the nests of any prairie chicken, grouse or quail,
wild turkey, goose or brant, any eg^ or eggs of such fowl or bird,
or for any person to buy, sell, have iu possession or traffic in such
DIGEST OK STATE I.AWS.
1080
eggs, or willfully destroy the nest of such birds or fowls, or any or
either of them. xVnd any person so oftending shall on conviction
be lined and dealt with as specified in Section 3 of this act.
MILLERS.
The owner or occupant of every public grist-mill in this State
shall grind all grain brought to his mill, in its turn. The toll for
both steam and water mills, is, for grinding and bolting wheat, rye,
or other grain, one-eighth part; for grinding Indian corn, oats, barley,
and buckwheat not required to be bolted, one-seventh part; for grind-
ing malt, and chopping all kinds of grain, one-eighth part. It is
the duty of every miller, when his mill is in repair, to aid and assist
in loading and unloading all grain brought to his mill to be ground;
and he is also required to keep an accurate half-bushel measure, and
an accurate set of toll dishes or scales for weighing the grain. The
penalty for neglect or refusal to comply with the law is $5, to the
use of any person suing for the same, to be recovered before any
Justice of the Peace of the county where the penalty is incurred.
Millers are accountable (except it results from unavoidable acci
dents) for the safe-keeping of all grain left in their mill for the pur-
pose of being ground, with bags or casks containing same, provided
that such bags or casks are distinctly marked with the initial letters
of the owner's name.
PAUPERS.
Every poor person who shall be unable to earn a livelihood in con-
sequence of any bodily infirmit}', idiocy, lunacy or unavoidable
cause, shall be supported by the father, grandfathers, mother, grand-
mothers, children, grandchildren, brothers or sisters, of such poor
person, if they or either of them be of sufficient ability; but if any
of such dependent class shall have become so from intemperance, or
other bad conduct, they shall not be entitled to support from any
relation except parent or child. The children shall first be called on
to support their parents, if they are able; but if not, the parents of
such poor person shall then be called on, if of sufficient ability; and
it there be no parents or children able, then the brothers and sisters
of such dependent person shall be called upon; and if there be no
brothers or sisters of sufficient ability, the grandchildren of such per-
son shall next be called on; and if they are not able, then the grand-
parents. Married females, while their husbands live, shall not be
1082 DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
liable to contribute for the support of their poor relations except
out of their separate property. It is the duty of the State's attorney
to make complaint to the County Court of his county against all the
relatives of such paupers in this State liable to support, and prose-
cute the same. In case the State's attorney neglects or refuses to
complain in such cases, then it is the duty of the overseer of the poor
to do so. The person called upon to contribute shall have at least
ten days' notice of such application, by summons. The court has
the power to determine the kind of support, depending upon the
circumstances of the parties, and may also order two or more of the
different degrees to maintain such poor person, and prescribe the
proportion of each, according to his or her ability. The court may
specify the time for which tlie relatives shall contribute; in fact it
has control over the entire subject matter, with power to enforce its
order.
Every county is required to relieve and support all poor and in-
digent persons lawfully resident therein. '* Residence " means the
actual residence of tlie party, or the place where he was employed;
or ill case he was in no employment, then it shall be the place where
he made his home. When any person becomes chargeable as a
pauper who did not reside in the county at the commencement of
six months immediately preceding his becoming so, but did at the
time reside elsewhere in this State, then the county becomes liable
for the expense of taking careof such person until removed; and it
is the duty of the overseer to notify the proper authorities of the
fact. If any person shall bring and leave any pauper in any county
in this State where such pauper had no legal residence, knowing him
to be such, he is liable to a fine of $100. In counties under town-
ship organization, the supervisors in each town are ex-officio over-
seers of the poor. The overseers of the poor act under the dii-ections
of the County Board in taking care of the poor and granting tem-
porary relief; also, in providing for non-resident persons not pau-
pers who may be taken sick and not able to pay their way, and, in
case of death, causing such persons to be decently buried.
PUBLIC AXD PRIVATE COSYEYANCES.
When practicable from the nature of the ground, persons travel
ing in any kind of vehicle must turn to the right of the center of
the road, so as to permit each carriage to pass without interfering
DIGEST OF STATE LA^VS. 1083
with the other. The penalty for a violation of this provision is $5
for every oflense, to be recovered by the party injured; but to re-
covei", thei-e must have occurred some injury to person oi* j)roperty
resulting from the violation.
The owners of any carriage traveHng upon any road in this State
for the conveyance of passengers, M'ho shall employ or continue in
their employment as driver any person who is addicted to drunken-
ness, or the excessive use of spirituous liquors, after he has had
notice of the same, shall pay a forfeit at the rate of $5 per day; and
if any driver, while actually engaged in driving any such carriage,
shall be guilty of intoxication to such a degree as to endanger the
safety of passengers, it shall be the duty of the owner, on receiving
written notice of the fact, signed by one of the passengers, and cer-
tified by liim on oath, forthwith to discharge such driver. If such
owner shall have such driver in his employ within three months
after such notice, he is liable for $5 per day for the time he shall
keep such driver in liis employment after receiving such notice.
Persons driving any carriage on any public highway are prohib-
ited from running their horses upon any occasion, under a penalty
of a fine not exceeding $10, or imprisonment not exceeding sixty
days, at the discretion of the court. Horses attached lo any car-
riage used to convey passengers for hire must be properly hitched,
or the lines placed in the hands of some other person, before the
driver leaves them for any purpose. For violation of this provision
each driver shall forfeit twenty dollars, to be recovered by action
commenced within six months.
It is understood by the term "carriage" herein to mean any car-
riage or vehicle used for the transportation of passengers, or goods,
or either of them.
WAGERS AND STAKEHOLDERS.
Wagers upon the result of an election have always been consid-
ered as void, as being contrary to sound policy, and tending to im-
pair the purity of elections. Wagers as to the mode of playing, or
as to the result of any illegal game, as boxing, wrestling, cock-
fighting, etc. , are void at common law.
Stakeholders mustdeliver the thing liolden by them to the person
entitled to it, on demand. It is frequently questionable who is en-
titled to it. In case of an unlawful wager, although he may be jus-
lOSo DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
titled for delivering the thing to the winner, bj the express or im-
plied consent of the loser, yet if before the event has happened he
has been required bj either ])arty to give up the thing deposited
with him by such party, he is bound to deliver it; or if, after the
event has happened, the losing party gives notice to the stakeholder
not to pay the winner, a payment made to him afterwards will be
made to him in his own wrong, and the party who deposited the
money or thing may recover it from the stakeholder.
SUNDAY.
Labor of whatever kind, other than the household offices of daily
necessity, or other work of charity and necessity, on the first day of
the week, commonly called Sunday, is in general under penalty pro-
hibited; but all persons do not come under prohibition. If a con-
tract is commenced on Sunday, but not completed until a subsequent
day, or if it merely grew out of a transaction which took place on
Sunday, it is not for this reason void. Thus, if a note is signed on
Sunday, its validity is not impaired if it be not delivered on that day.
DEFINITION OF C03IMKRCIAL TERMS.
$ means dollars, being a contraction of U. S., which was for-
merly placed before any denomination of money, and meant, as it
means now. United States currency. £ means pou)ids. English
money. @ stands for «^ or ^o/ lb t'ov pound/ bbl. for barrel; and
. f> for j.>e}' or by the. Thus, butter sells at 20@30c. ^ ft, and
flour at $6® 10 '^ bbl. \„ stands for jh'r cent., and jj^ for number.
In the example "May 1 — wheat sells at $1.05(gl.l0, seller
June," ■'teller June means that the person who sells the wheat has
the privilege of delivering it at any time during the month of
June. "Selling short*' is contracting to deliver a certain amount
of grain or stock at a fixed price within a certain length of time,
when the seller has not the stock on hand. It is for the interest of
the person selling '• short" to depress the market as much as possi-
ble, in order that he may buy and fill his contract at a profit.
Hence the " shorts " are termed ' ' bears. "
LEGAL WEIGHTS AND MEASURES.
Whenever any of the followinir articles shall be contracted for,
or sold or delivered, and no special contract or agreement shall be
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS, 1084
made to the contrary, the weight per bushel shall be as follows,
to wit:
tbs. lbs.
Aroles, dried. 34 Hemp seed 44
Bar'ey 48 Hair (plastering) 8
Beans, white 60 Lime, uuslackcd 80
Beans, castor. ..„ 40 Onions 57
Buckwlieat.... 52 Oats '62
Bran 30 Potatoes, Irisli 60
Blue-glass seed 14 Peaches, dried 33
Broom-corn seed. . , 46 Potatoes, sweet 55
Coal, stove 80 Rye 56
Corn, in tlie ear. , 70 Salt, fine 55
Corn, shelled 56 Salt, coarse 50
Corn meal 48 Turnips 55
Clover seed 60 Timothy seed 45
Fla.x seed 56 Wheat 60
BEES.
Bees, while unreclaimed, are by nature wild animals. Those
which take up their abode in a tree belong to the owner of the soil
in which the tree grows, if unreclaimed; but if reclaimed and identi-
fied they belong to their former owner. If a swarm has flown from
the hive of A, they are his so long as they are in sight, and ma}'
easily be taken; otherwise, they become the property of the first
occupant. Merely finding on the land of another person a tree
containincj a swarm of bees, and marking it, does not vest the
property of the bees in the finder. They do not become property
until actually hived.
DOOS.
Dogs are animals of a domestic nature. The owner of a dotr has
such property in him that he miiy maintain an action for an injury
to him, or to recover him when unlawfully taken away and kept by
another.
"When, in consequence of his vicious propensities, a dog becomes
a common nuisance the owner may be indicted, and where one
commits an injury, if the owner had knowledge of his mischievous
propensities, he is liable for the injury. A man has a right to
keep a dog to guard his premises, but not to ])ut him at the
entrance of his house, because a person coming there on lawful
business may be injured by him, though there may be another
entrance to the house. Bnt if a dog i.-^ chained, and a visitor
incautiously ffoes so near him that he is bitten, he has no right of
action against the owner.
108() DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
CRUELTY TO ANIMALS.
Whoever shall willt'uUy overdrive, overload, overwork, torture,
tornient, beat, deprive of necessary and proper food, drink, or
shelter, or cruelly kill any such animal, or work an old, maimed,
sick, or" disabled animal, or keep any animal in an unnecessarily
cruel manner, for each and every offense shall be liable to a tine of
not less than $3 or more than $200, to be recovered on complaint
before any Justice of the Peace, or by indictment. The word
"animal" used shall be taken to mean any living creature.
NAMES.
Any person desirous of changing his name, and to assume another
name, may file a petition in the Circuit Court of the county where
he resides, praying for such change. Such petition shall set forth
the name then held, and also the name sought to be assumed?
together with liis residence, and the length of time he shall have
resided in this State, and his nativity. In case of minors, parents
or guardians must sign this petition; and said petition shall be
verified by the affidavit of some credible person. A previous notice
shall be given of such intended application by publishing a notice
thereof in a county newspaper for three consecutive weeks, the first
insertion to be at least six weeks prior to tue first day of the term
of the court in whicli the said petition is to be filed.
UNITED STATES MAILS.
The following suggestions and rulings of the Post Ofiice Depart-
ment in regard to the sending of matter through the United States
mails will be found valuable. By giving careful attention to and
closely following them, almost perfect security from all delays and
losses, and the many little vexatious inquiries generally made by
the public will be avoided.
Make the address legible and complete, giving the name of the
postofiice, county and state; the name of the street, and the num-
ber of the house, also, should always be given on letters addressed
to cities where letter-carriers are employed. Letters intended for
places in foreign countries should have the name of the country «s
well as the postofiice given in full.
See that every letter, newspaper or other packet sent by mail is
securely folded and fastened. Avoid using, as much as possible.
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1087
cheap envelopes made of thin paper, especially when contaiiiincr
more than one sheet of paper.
Never send money or any other article of value througli the
mail, except by means of a money order or in a registered letter.
Every letter sent should contain the full name and address of the
writer, with the county and State, in order to secure its return if
the person to whom it is directed cannot be found. Persons who
have large correspondence find it most convenient to nse "special
request " envelopes, but those who only mail an occasional letter
can avoid the trouble by writing a request to "return if not
delivered," etc., on the envelope.
Postage stamps should be placed upon the upper right hand
corner of the addressed side of all mail matter.
"Written matter in unsealed envelopes prepaid with only a one-
cent postage stamp will be held for postage.
Diplomas, commissions, certificates, etc., having written signa-
tures attached, circulars having anything written thereon, are sub-
ject to postage at the rate of three cents for each half ounce or
fraction thereof
Stamps cut from stamped envelopes, mutilated postage stamps*
and internal revenue stamps, will not be accepted in payment for
postage. Letters deposited in a postofiice having such mattef'
afiixed are held for postage.
To use, or attempt to use, in payment of postage a postage
stamp, or stamped envelope, or any stamp cut from such stamped
envelopes, which has been before used in payment of postage, is
punishable with a fine of fifty dollars.
In using postal cards, be careful not to write or have anything
printed on the side to be used for the address, except the address;
also be careful not to attach anything to them. They are nnmail-
able as postal cards when these suggestions are disregarded.
No cards are " postal cards " except such as are issued by the
Post Office Department. In no one case will unclaimed cards be
returned to the writer or sent to the Dead Letter Office. If not
delivered within sixty days from time of receipt they will be burned
by the post- master.
To insure a letter being forwarded in the mails it must have not
less than three cents in postage stamps affixed.
After a letter has passed from the mailing office the delivering
1088 DIGEST <»F STATE LAWS.
of it cannot be delayed or prevented by the writer; but, if the
writei- request the return of the letter, which has not left in the
mail, the post-master may deliver it, if he is satisfied that the party
applying is the writer.
A subscriber to a newspaper or periodical who changes his resi-
dence and postoflSce should at once notify the publishers of the
change.
Printed matter, merchandise and otlier third-class matter cannot
be forwarded from the office to which it is addressed unless postage
is furnished for such purposes. A request to return indorsed on
such matter will not be regarded unless postage is furnished for the
purpose. A request to return written on such matter subjects the
package to letter postage.
All packages mailed at less than letter postage should be wrapped
so that their contents can be readily ascertained without destroying
the wrapper.
Matter contained in sealed envelopes, notched at the ends, is sub-
ject to letter postage.
The sender of any article of the third-class may write liis or her
name or address therein, or on the outside thereof, with the word
" from " above or preceding the same, or may write or print on any
package the number and name of articles inclosed.
All losses should be promptly reported.
Packages of any description of mail matter may weigh not exceed-
ing four pounds.
RATES OF POSTAGE.
On letters, sealed packages, mail matter, wholly or partly in
writing, except book manuscript and corrected proofs passing
between authors and publishers, and except local or drop letters, or
postal cards; all printed matter so marked as to convey any other
or further information than is conveyed by the original print, except
the correction of mere typographical errors; all matter otherwise
chargeable with letter postage, but which is so wrapped or secured
that it cannot be conveniently examined by the post-masters with.
out destroying the wrapper or envelope; all packages containing
matter not in itself chargeable with letter postage, but in which is
enclosed or concealed anj' letter, memorandum, or other thing
chargeable with letter postage, or upon which is any writing or
memorandum; all matter to which no specific rate of postage is
DIGEST OF STATE LAWS. 1089
assigned; and manuscript for publication in newspapers, magazines
or periodicals, three cents for each half ounce or fraction
THEREOF.
On local or drop letters, at offices where free delivery by carriers
is established, two cents for each half ounce or fraction
THEREOF.
On local or drop letters, at offices where free delivery by carriers
is not established, one cent for each half ounce or fraction
thereof.
RATES OF POSTAGE ON THIRD-CLASS MATTER.
By act of July 12, 1876, third-class matter is divided as follows:
One cent for Hoo ounces. — Almanacs, books (printed), calendars,
catalogues, corrected proofs, hand-bills, magazines, when not sent
to regular subscribers, maps (lithographed or engraved), music
(printed sheet), newspapers, when not sent to regular subscribers
occasional publications, pamphlets, posters, proof-sheets, prospec-
tuses, and regular publications designed primarily for advertising
purposes, or for free circulatien, or for circulation at nominal rates.
One cent for each ounce. — Blank books, blank cards, book manu-
script, card boards and other flexible materials, chromo- lithographs
circulars, engravings, envelopes, flexible patterns, letter envelopes,
letter paper, lithographs, merchandise, models, ornamented papei-,
postal cards, when sent in bulk and not addressed, jjliotographic
views, photographic paper, printed blanks, printed cards, sample
cards, samples of ores, metals, minerals, and merchandise, seeds
cuttings, bulbs, roots and scions, and stereoscopic views.
Any article of mail matter, subject to postage at the rate of one
cent for each ounce or fraction thereof, which mnv be enclosed in
the same package with items subject to the rate of one cent for each
two ounces or fraction thereof, will subject the entire package to
the highest rate, viz.; one cent for each ounce or fraction thereof.
The following articles are unmailable:
Packages containifig liquids, poisons, glass, explosive chemicals,
live animals, sharp pointed instruments, flr>ur, sugar, or any other
matter liable to deface or destroy the contents of the mail, or injure
the person of any one connected with the service. All letters upon
the envelope of which, or postal card upon which indecent, lewd,
obscene, or lascivious delineations, epithets, terms or language
may be written or printed, or disloyal devices printed or engraved,
1090 * DIGEST OF STATE LAWS.
and letters or circulars concerning illegal lotteries, so called gift
concerts or other similar enterprises offering prizes, or concerning
schemes devised and intended to deceive and detraud the public-
Also, all obscene, lewd or lascivious books, pamphlets, pictures,
papers, prints or other publications of an indecent character.
REGISTERED MATTER.
The fee for registering a letter going anywhere in the United
States is fixed at ten cents in addition to the regular postage. Post-
masters are required to register all letters properly presented for
that purpose, but no letters are to be registered on Sunday.
Registered letters will never be delivered to any person but the
one to whom they are addressed, or to one whom the post-master
knows to be authorized to receive them.
MONEY ORDERS.
The money-order system is intended to promote public conven-
ience and to secure safety in the transfer through the mails of small
fiums of money. The principal means employed to attain safety
consists in leaving out of the order the name of the payee or per-
^on for whom the money is intended. Ln this respect a money-
order differs from an ordinary bank draft or check. An advice
or notification containing full particulars of the order is transmitted
without delay by the issuing post-master to the post-master at the
ofiice of payment. The latter is thus furnished, before the order
itself is presented, with information which will enable him to pre-
vent its payment to any person not entitled thereto, pi'ovided the
remitter complies with the regulation of the Department, which
prohibits him from sending the same information in a letter inclosed
with his order.
Under no circumstances can payment of an order be demanded
on the day of its issue. The fees or charges for money-orders will
be as follows: ,
On orders not exceeding $15 10 cents
Ou orders over $15 and not exceeding $30 15 cents
On orders over'^oO and not exceeding $40 20 cents
On orders over $40 and not exceeding $50 25 cents
When a larger sum than $50 is required, additional orders to
make it up must be obtained. But post-masters are instructed to
refuse to issue in one day, to the same remitter and in favor of the
same payee, more than three money-orders payable at the same
postoffice.
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