Inventory of the county archives of Illinois

LIBRARY OF THE

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

A552.0773

y\o.48

cop. 4

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lunuu aiCkiUKUAl iUKVH.

KNOX COUNTY

JgalesburgJ

HE HISTOR

yJvC AGO

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NO 48

L RECORDS SURVEY

I L L I N O I /

INVENTORY OF THE COUNTY ARCHIVES
OF ILLINOIS

Prepared "by

The Historical Records Survey-
Division of Women's and Professional Projects
Works Progress Administration

No, 48, KNOX COUNTY (GALESBURG)

I* * * 01 * *

Chicago, Illinois

The Historical Records Survey

September 1938

The Historical Records Surrey

Luther H. Evans, National Director
Howard E. Cclgan, State Director

Division of Women's and Professional Projects

Ellen S, Woodward, Assistant Administrator
Mary Gillette Mocn, State Director

WORKS PROGBESS ADMINISTRATION

Harry L. Hopkins, Administrator
Charles E, Miner, State Administrator

ILURDIS niSIUNIUHL dUnu-l

'f'

FOREWORD

The Inventory of County Archives of Illinois is one of a mjinlDer
of ■biTDliogFjaphies of historical materials prepared throughout the
United States by workers on The Historical Records Survey of the Works
Progress Administration, The pulDlication herewith presented, an in-
ventory of the archives of Knox County, is number 48 of the Illinois
seriesc

The Historical Records Survey was undertaken in the winter of
1935-36 for the purpose of providing useful employment to needy unemployed
historians, lawyers, teachers, and research and clerical workers. In
carrying out this objective, the project was organized to compile in-
ventories of historical materials, particularly the unpublished government
documents and records which are basic in the administration of local
government, and which provide invaluable data for students of political,
economic, and social history. The archival guide herewith presented is
intended to meet the requirements of day-to-day administration by the
officials of the county, and also the needs of lawyers, business men and
other citizens who require facts from the public records for the proper
conduct of their affairs. The volume is so designed that it can be used
by the historian in his research in unprinted sources in the same way he
uses the library card catalog for printed sources.

The inventories produced by The Historical Records Survey attempt ,
to do more than give merely a list of records - they attempt further to
sketch in the historical background of the county or other unit of govern-
ment, and to describe precisely and in detail the organization and func-
tions of the government agencies whose records they list. The county,
town, and other local inventories for the entire country will, when com-
pleted, constitute an encyclopedia of local government as well as a
bibliography of local archives.

The successful conclusion of the work of The Historical Records
Survey, even in a single county, would not be possible without the sup-
port of public officials, historical and legal specialists, and many other
groups in the community. Their cooperation is gratefully acknowledged.

The Survey was organized and has been directed by Luther H, Evans,
and operates as a nation-wide project in the Division of Women's and
Professional Projects, of which Mrs, Ellen S. Woodward, Assistant Ad-
ministrator, is in charge.

HARRY L. HOPKINS
Administrator

PREFACE

The Historical Records Survey was initiated as a nation-wide under-
talcing in January 1936, as part of the Federal V/riters' Project of the
Viforks Progress Administration. In Illinois the Survey became an inde-
pendent unit in August 1936, but continued to operate as a part of the
nation-wide project under the technical supervision of Dr. Luther H.
Evans, National Director, and under the administrative supervision of
the Division of Women's and Professional Projects.

In compiling this Inventory of the Archives of Knox County, the
Survey has sought to locate, describe, and classify all extant county
records and to make them more easily accessible to county officials, the
general public, and research workers. It is believed that this inventory
will be useful in the preservation of this valuable material, and as a
guide to the archives wherein may be found so much important information
in the field of history, sociology, political science, and economics.
While some historians have realized this for many years, the general pub-
lic has never been made aware of the intrinsic worth of this material.
In the official documents of Knox County is continued the story of the
coming into the wilderness of settlers who created a territory and the
rudiments of a simple frontier government, bought and sold land, built
roads, established schools, and later founded a state.

The Historical Records Survey has proved itself of valuable assist-
ance to local and county governments in Illinois. Records have been
rearranged and made more accessible, material believed to be lost has been
located, indexing projects have been fostered, and county officials have
been encouraged and induced to provide new equipment for their offices
and better storage space for tlie records.

In addition, the program of the Survey has been planiicd to dovetail
with the long range plans of the State of Illinois for the care of its
State and local archives. For example, the first step in the Illinois
program, the moving of all state records into a new Archives Building,
has been materially aided by the preparation of preliminary inventories
by Survey workers for the various state departm.ents . Again, the program
of the State for the preservation of county records, including the making
of microphotographic copies of all important historical documents, ob-
viously presupposes inventories such as The Historical Records Survey is
now ma.king.

Since under Illinois law no records may be destroyed wltliout specific
enabling legislation, the tremendous increase in the bulk of records being
produced today makes it impossible for eitlier the State or the counties to
preserve all records. Hence, there has been considerable destruction of
records. The inventories being compiled by The Historical Records Survey
now make possible for the first time a scientific study of the v^holc ques-
tion of record destruction. If, as seems likely, this results in adequate

Prafnce

and sensible legislation permitting necessary reduction in the bulk of
records, this single use of the inventories may prove the most important
contribution of the Survey.

Under the direction of Alston G. Field, 'sho resigned as State Director
November 1, 1937, work on the survey of records in Knox County, the forty-
eighth county on the alphabetically arranged list of the one hundred and
two counties in Illinois, was begun March 17, 1936, and finished as far as
possible July 25, 1936. Additional vork on offices and records not pre-
viously surveyed was started November 11, 1937, and completed December 28,

1937. A complete re-check was begun Jr^nuary 14, 1938, and completed March
11, 1938. The abstrc?.cting of the county board records was begun March 24,

1938, and finished July 21, 1938. The inventory was taken by Fred Worman,
Walter Felt, Mrs. Grace Davies, and Gertrude O'Gonrior, under the super-
vision of Victor C. Karcher.

The inventory was prepared for publication by the state editorial
staff of The Historical Records Survey at Chicago, under the supervision
of Herbert R. Rifkind. Assisting were Martine O'Connor, in charge of
editing and re-editing; Kathleen Summitt in charge of arranging and in-
dexing; and Sdvard J. KcDonough, in cha,rge of format and collation. The
legal essays were prepared under the supervision of Irving E. Barnett and
Lyle D. Gunin. T:/ping, stencil cutting, and mimeographing were supervised
by Dorothy V. Herold. In addition, too much credit cannot be given to the
other members of the editorial, research, and typing staffs for their in-
telligent and diligent cooperation in the compilation of this Inventory.

The various units of the Inventory of County Archives of Illinois
v;ill be available for distribution to government offices, libraries,
schools, and historical societies in Illinois, and libraries and govern-
mental agencies in other states. Eeouests for information concerning
particular units of the Inventory should be addressed to the state
director.

All of the officers of Knox Coujity cooperated in every possible vjay
with the workers, and grateful acknowledgment of their aid is hereby made.
County officials at the time of the Survey were: George A. Larson, County
Clerk; Charles H. Westerberg, Circuit Clerk; '"^illiam J. English, Coiinty
Treasurer; Elgin Ross, Sheriff; R. C. Rice, State's Attorney; Rodney L.
Stuart, County Judge; Jesse R. Peck, Superintendent of Schools; S. S. Scott,
Surveyor; A. R. Snith, Superintendent of Highways; ^'ebb Herlocker, Master
in Cha.ncery; and George S. Bower, Coroner. I also wish to express appre-
ciation for the assistance rendered 'hy the officers of the Illinois State
Library, p.nd by the officials of the Illinois Works Progress Administration
and the Federal Writers' Project. For the cover design and the binding
we are indebted respectively to the Federal Art Project and the Bookbinding
Project of District 3, Chicago, Illinois.

Howard S. Colgan
State Director /
October 28, 1938 The Historical Records Survey

1 -

TA3LE OF CONTEl-TTS

A. Knox County end Its Records System

Page

1. Historical Sketch 4

Major Changes in Knox County Boundaries 30

Roster of Coiinty Officers ■ 31

2i Governmental Organization and Records Sjrstem 39

Chart 61

3. Housing, Care, and Accessibility of the Records 62

4. List of Atbreviations, Symbols, and Explanatory l^btes 68

B. County Offices and Their Records

I . County Board '''0

Proceedings of Board. Disposition of Accounts: Ap-
propriation of Funds; Registers of County Orders;
Cancelled County Orders; Pension Funds and Applications;
Receipts. Management of County Properties: Proposals,
Bids, Contracts; Bond Issues; Insurance; Petitions.
Reports to Board. Jury Lists.

II. County Clerk 82

Taxation: Lists of Taxa.ble Property, Levies; Collections,
Abatement; Judgment, Sale pjid Redemption. Vital Statis-
tics: Births; Deaths; Marriages; Census. Licenses and '
Registers: Registers of Officers; Professional Licenses
and Registers; Militia Roll; Stallion Certificates; Es-
trays, Marks and Brands; Dog License. Elections. Bonds
of Officers. Fees, Receipts, and E:cpenditures. Maps and
Plats. Miscellaneous Records.

Ill . Recorder - , 1^2

Entry Books. General Indexes. Instruments Recorded:
General; Deeds; Mortgages - Real Property; Mortgages -
Chattel; Certificates of Levy; Other Instraments. Special
Tract Indexes. Maps and Plats. Fees. Miscellaneous
Records.

- 2 -

Table of Contents

Page

IV. County Court 112

Proceedings of Court. Dockets: Court Dockets;
Justices' and Magistrates' Dockets. Fee Books. Pro-
bation: Juvenile; Mothers' Pension. Naturalization.
Receipts and Expenditures. Correspondence.

V. Probate Court 124

Proceedings of Court: Case Papers; Records. Probate
Business: Wills, Bonds, Letters; Inventories and Appraise-
ments; Widows' Relinquishment axid Selection; Petitions,
Decrees, Reports of Sale; Reports, Current and Final
Accounts. Dockets: Court Proceedings; Probate Business.
Fee Books.

VI. Circuit Court ~ 134

Proceedings of Court: Case Papers; Records. Transcripts.
Dockets. Fee Books. Reports to the Court. Jury Records.
Bonds. Probation and Parole. Naturalization. Office
Transactions: Receipts ajid Expenditures; Court Business;
Corre -pondence .

VII. Sheriff 150

Process. Jail Records. Receipts and Expenditures.
Correspondence.

VIII. Coroner 152

IX. State' s Attorney 154

X. Supervisor of Assessments 156

XI. Board of Review 158

XII. Collector 159

Collection and Settlement. Receipts. Abatement.

XIII. Treasurer 162

Receipts and Disbursements. Special Accounts:
School; Trust; Highway; Dog License; Inheritance Tax.
County Orders. Checks.

XIV. Superintendent of Schools 166

Accounts of School Funds. Sale of School Lands. District
Records. Teachers' Records. Pupil Records. Reports.
Maps and Plats. Receipts and Expenditures.

XV. Superintendent of Highways J-71

Construction and Maintenance Records. Allotments and
Claims. Receipts ond Expenditures.

- 3 -

Table of Contents

Page

XVI. Surveyor 1'^'^

XVII . Department of Public Welfare 175

XVIII . County Home and Hospital ^'^^

Appendix -'■'^

Bibliography 186

Chronological Index l^^

Subject Index l^^

- 4 -

(First entry, p. 77)

1, HISTORICAL SKETCH

Knox Coiinty in Northwest aud India-na Territories

In the estalDlisl-inent of Knox Covrnty in Illinois, certain anomalies
occurred v/hich afford knov/ledgc not only on the development of the county
hut tvlso on that of the state. On June 20, 1790, Arthur St, Clair,
Governor of the NorthTvest Territory, established hy proclanation a Knox
County which included ahout half of the present State of Illinois, the
whole of Indiana, that part of Ohio west of the Great Miami River, the
greater part of Michigan, raid a considerahle part of Wisconsin,-'- The
hoixndaries of this original Knox County remained unchanged for over ten
Shears until May 1800, when Indiana Territory was carved out of the North-
west Territory, Filliai-i Henry Harrison, appointed the first governor, was
qualified in January 1801. On Fehruary 3, 1801, he issued a proclamation
altering the "boundaries of the counties of Knox, Randolph, and St. Clair,
the three counties into which Illinois at this tine ws.s divided,^ As a
result of this change in houndarics, the area of Knox County in Illinois
territory was reduced to that emhraced "by parts of some eight present
counties along the Wahash River.

1. Juno 20 - A county named Knox was laid off with the following "bound-
aries; Beginning at the Standing Stone Forks of the Great Miarai River
(near the present site of the village of Laramie, in the western part
of Shelhy Ccanty, Ohio) ojid dovm the said river to the confluence v/ith
the Ohio River; thence with the Ohio River to the small stream or
rivulet- above Fort Mar;sac (near IJetropolis, in Massac County, Illinois]
thence with the eastern line of St». Clair Ccunty to the mouth of the
Little Michilmacinack (the Mackinaw River flowing into the Illinois
four or five miles hclow Pekin in Tazewell County); thence up the Ill-
inois River to the forks or confluence of the Theokiki (Kankakee) and
Chicago (Des Plaines); thence hy a line to be drawn due north to the
bo^juidary of the Territory of the United States, and so far easterly
upon said boundarj'- line as thji,t a due south lino nay be dra^m to the
place of beginning. - Territorial Records of the Northwest Territory,
St, Clair Papers, volui-ie 2, page 166, as reported in Counties of Ill-
inois, Edward J, Haghes (Pr. by authority of the State of Illinois,
1934), p, 36, 15, Note: This statement is given on the formation of
Knox County: Knox County, named in honor of General Heiiry Knox, had
been formed pursuo.nt to a proclamation by Winthrop Sargent, the sec-
retary of the Northwest Territory, r.cting in the place of the gov-
ernor, on Jione 20, 1790, Indiana Historical Society Publications
(Indianapolis: The Bobbs-Mcrrill Company, 1905), III, no, 3, p, 55,
66,

2, Indiana Historical Society Publications, III, no. 3, p, 93,

— 5 -

TT- 4. • 1 cvofoin ' (First entry, p. 77)

Historical Sleet en

Creation of Illinois Territory

), 1809, Illinois Territory was established 'by act of
to tpJce effect from and after March 1, 1809. On April

On February 3
Congress, the act

28th of the same year, Nathaniel Pope, secretaryof the Territory of Illi-
nois and exercising the government thereof, divided the Illinois Terri-
tory into tv.-o counties, the Couiaty of St, Clair and the County of Randolph,
Thus, as no mention or provision was made for a Knox County in the ne^ly
organized Illinois Territory, it still remained to "be established as an of-
ficial Illinois county.

I.'ilitary Tract; Development of Counties Therein

An act of Congress passed in 1812, setting aside certain lands to be
given to soldiers for bounties, restricted for this purpose two million
acres in the Illinois Territory north of the Illinois Hiver."^ Located be-
tween the Iviississippi and Illinois Rivers and extending north almost to the
Rock River, this area became knovn as the Military Tract, It was within
this Military Tract that Illinois, a few years after its recognition as a
state in 1818, was to organize Knox County, In 1812 the territorial county
of Madison was created which included more than tvvo-thirds of the upper
pc'irt of the state, Madison was then reduced in size by the formation of
additional counties until in 1821, it was approximately its present size.
In the same year Pike also was organized, and included v.'ithin its limits
the Military Tract and the northern part of the state. In 1823 Pike was
reduced to an area approxima.tely twice its present size, but v;ith consid-
erable other land attached to it for governmental purposes. In the same
year Fulton County came into being, with an area about twice its present
extent, and with most of the former Pike County attached to it for govern-
mental purposes, . This remained the status of the area north of the Illi-
nois River for two years.

Establishment of Knox County

At Vandalia, capital of Illinois at that time, the Fourth G-eneral As-
sembly passed "An Act forming new counties out of the counties of Pike and
F-alton, and the attached parts thereof," i-vhich v/as approved January 13,
1825, The eight counties established by this act were Schuyler, Adams,
Hrjicock, Warren, Mercer, Henry, Putnam, and Knox, Section 8 of

1, Laws of U. States, published under inspection of Joseph Story (Boston:
Wells and Lilly, 1827), II, 1109.

2, Territorial Records of Illinois, p, 3, as reported in Counties of
Illinois, Edward J, Hughes (Pr, by authority of the State of Illinois,
1934), p, 24,

3, Laws of the U, S,, v, 4, p, 425, approved May 6, 1812, chap, 400, as
reported in Robert Mayo .and Ferdinand Moulton, Array .-md Navy Pension
Laws and Bounty Land Laws of the United States, including Sundry Reso-
lutions of Congress, from 1776 to 1852 (Washington; Jno, T. Pov-ers,
1852), p, 289.

4, L.1S25. p, 92-95,

Historical Sketch (First entry, p, 77)

the act, in establishing Knox County, stated, "Be it further enacted, That
all that tract of country within the follovdng boundaries, to wit: Begin-
ning at the point where the township line between townships eight and nine
north intersects the meridian line, thence east on said line to the range
line between ranges four and five east; thence up the said range line to
the northeast corner of tovmship twelve north, range four east; thence
west on said township line to the meridian; and thence down the said me-
ridian to the place of beginning, shall constitute a county to be called
ICnox." The Knox County thus created, was one tier of to\¥nships smaller
on the north than its present size; these townships are the present Eio,
Ontario, Walnut G-rove, end. L^mn,

naming of County

Knox County has had an unusual growth and development which makes it
one of the outstanding counties in Illinois, While it was named in honor
of Major General Henry Knox, Chief of Artillery of the American Army during
the Revolutionary War, and later Secretary of War in Washington's cabinet,
its settlement was largely made by church colonists. Under the able and
vigorous direction of the leaders of these groups, the land was intensively
cultivated, schools and colleges v.'ere established which obtained national
recognition, rjid citizens of Knox became wise coijnselors in civic and
financial affairs, not only in the county and state, but in the nation.

First Settlers

The earliest settlers were emigrants from the South, The pattern of
their movement into Illinois and Knox County, and the change in the move-
ment to emigrations from other sections of the country, is best described
by W, Selden Gale, son of the founder of Galesburg, .and for fifty years
prominent in county government:

"Take the map of the United States, and draw a line from Galesburg
through Vincennes, Indiana, When prolonged it will penetrate the blue
grass country; along that line, as a sort of main channel, with countless
outpourings on either side, floxved the tide of settlement from Kentucky,
Tennessee, and Virginia, Down to 1832, the year of the Black Havjk War,
Knox County settlers came mainly from these states, either directly or
from temporary homes in southern Indiana and Illinois, Later, v,-ith the
termination of Indian hostilities, when immigration v/as resumed, the tide,
at first, set chiefly from the same sources, although the number of
settlers from the Northern States gradually increased,

"Eastern immigration set in in full force in 1836, the year of the
arrival of the Galesburg Colony. It was an era of such enterprises, and
many colonies of Easterners sought to found cities in the West. But in
one respect the Galesburg Colony stands alone. It was not a noney-making
enterprise. These colonists sought to build up a cormunity, and those

1, L.18S5, p. 94.

- 7 -
Historical Sketch (First entry p. 77)

original raenters of the colony v;ho could not cone to live on their lands,
were encouraged to surrender their holdings to pernanent settlers. This
was in direct contrast with the action of other colonies, where nost of
the neahers remained at their Eastern hones, and held their lands simply
for speculative purposes,.,

"The immediate addition to the population was considerahle. From
that time forward the Southern immigration iDegan to decline, and New York,
New England, Ohio, and Pennsylvania supplied the majority of the new arrivals,
The first considerahle European accession was the Scotch settlement in the
northeastern part of the county, chiefly in Copley, In 1846, a religious
and communistic colony, under the leadership of Eric Janson, settled at
Bishop Hill, in Henry County, near the northeastern corner of Knox, In-
fluenced "by Rev, Jonas Hedstrom, a Methodist clergyman, who had emigrated
from Sv;eden and v'ho was then living in Victoria, a considerable number
seceded from this colony and settled on farms near Victoria, Steady
immigration from Sweden followed,.. The Irish first appeared in force
in 1854, as laborers on the railroad... For some time they remained con-
tent with this employment, "but, little "by little, they began to seek other
outlets for their energy, many going to work upon farms, "-'-

An interesting account of the first permanent settlement in Knox Coun-
ty, in what today is Henderson township, is found in an old directory. In
this township stood a splendid grove of trees which proved a boon to
settlers by supplying thjm with logs for the building of homes, stores, and
taverns. Because of the number of log buildings in the settlement, it was
called Log City, From this directory we learn the following about these
early settlers:

"The first settlement of the colony was made in Henderson grove in
February, 18)^8, Messrs, Daniel and Alexander Robertson, Riggs Pennington,
Stephen Osborn, Robert and Eaton Nance, Rev, Jacob Cum, John B, Janes,
and Zephaniah Gun, Jane Vaughan, Benjamin Coy, Alexander Frakes, Robert
Greenwell, Thomas Sheldon and Nicholas Voiles, were the first heads of
families who settled in Knox County; the unmarried emigrants who did
not 'keep house', were Jesse D, Gum, Matthew D. Coy, Helen Hilton,
Andrew Osborne, Thomas McKee, Alexander Osborne, and James Reynolds,
In July 1829, the first marriage ceremonies were performed by Philip
Hash, a justice of the peace: Fielden T, Hash to Miss Elizabeth Razor, and
Alexander Osborne to Miss Ann Hendricks, The happy parties were compelled
to obtain the license from Lewiston, (Lewistovm) in Fulton County, and
all were married upon the same day. This was the first introduction of
Hash in the middle west, and the only instance on record of the commodity
ever having been served in connection with a razor. In Janiiary, 182S,
the first white child was born, the offspring of Zephaniah and June Giam.
On the 9th day of Janua.ry, 1839, the first death and burial occurred, a
young man named Philip Nance, aged 17 years, died and was buried on the

1, Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and Knox County, W, Selden Gale,
ed, Knox County (Chicago and New York: Munsell Publishing Company,
1899), p, 619,

Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

N. E. quarter of section 16, tovraship 12 N., R. 1 E. The friends were
compelled to use the lumber of an old vmgon-box in the construction of a
rude coffin. "•'-

From another early history of Knox County v;e further leajrn that
"Jacob Gum and his sons settled upon sections 32 and 33, . . Riggs
Pennington settled on section 10, from v/hich place he moved to section
27... Stephen Osborn settled on section 23... Alexander Frakes and the
Nance brothers settled on section 9... Benjamin Coy settled on section
31... Robert Greenwell settled on section 22... Nicholas Voiles settled
on section 22. . . "2

Organization of County Government

It was not long before the arrival of other settlers caused the number
of settlements to increase rapidly, and made Knox now feel the need for an
organized county government. Up to this time all legal and county business
had been handled in accordance with the provision in section 10 of "An Act
supplementary to the Act regulating Elections", approved January 17, 1825,
v/hich stated, "That all the counties created, and authorized to be here-
after established by the act entitled 'An Act forming new counties of
Pike and Fulton, and the attached parts thereof, shall continue and be
attached to, and form a part of the counties from which they shall have
been respectively taken, for all public, civil, and criminal proceedings,
as heretofore. "3 Since Knox had been attached to Fulton County, its
citizens v/ere required to go to Lewiston, the county seat of Fulton, some
forty or fifty miles south of the main settlements in Knox, in order to
transact their legal business. This was a great inconvenience and a source
of considerable annoyance to them.

It is not to be vrondered, therefore, that a great clamor soon arose
to take advantage of the provision in section 11 of the act of formation,
which stated, "That when it shall appear, to the satisfaction of the Judge
of the Circuit Court, that any of the above named counties shall contain
three hundred and fifty inhabitants, he is hereby required to grant an
order for the election of county officers, as described in the ninth
section of this act."'^ Again, from an authentic history of the county,
we find the folloAving facts dealing vvrith the organization of the county
government of Knox:

"In the spring of 1830, two years after the first v/hite man had lo-
cated in the county of Knox, it was thought there was a sufficient number
of inhabitants to justify an organization. Accordingly a public meeting

1. J. L. Dewey, Dewey's County Directory (Galesburg: Liberal Book and Job
Office, 1868), p. 13.

2. Chas. C. Chapman & Co., History of Knox County, Illinois (Chicago:
Blakely, Brovra & Marsh, 1878), p. 103.

3. L.1825, p. 168.

4. Ibid., p. 95.

- 9 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 7?)

was held at the store of Samuel S. White, in Henderson tovmship, Ma,y 15,
1830. This store stood near the residence of John 3. Gum, end in the
early days was known as a tavern, but at present such a place v.'culd be
coKunonly known as a saloon. The building v/as a one-story log cahin, about
16 feet square, and contained but one room. Pdggs Pennington v/as chosen
chairman sjid John j. Sanburn, secretary. The original ;.iinutes of the
meeting are still extant, and in the possession of Mr. F. Ct. Sanburn, of
Knoxville, who kindly loaned them to us. Among the pioneers present r.t
this meeting looking forward to the org?,nization of one of the wealthiest,
most beautiful counties of the state, were Riggs Pennington, John G. San-
burn, Philip Hash, "Stephen Osborn, Dr. Charles Hansford, Henry Eell, Jacob
Gum, Nicholas Voiles and John B. Gum.

"Dr. Hansford, Riggs Pennington and John G. Sanburn were appointed
to draft a petition addressed to the Honorable Richard M. Yo\ang, Judge of
the Fifth Judicial District, praying for the organization of the county.
Another committee was appointed to present this petition to the Judge and
address him in the interests of the organization. This comr.''ittee was com-
posed of Pennington, Hash, Hansford, and Osborn. These gentlemen shortly
a.fterv/ard proceeded to Lewistown, Fulton County; and v\fhile the circuit
court was in session, laid their petition before the Judge, who, believing
the county contained 350 inhabitants, the n\imber required by law, and that
the majority desired the organization, did, on the 10th day of June, de-
clare, by virtue of the poT/er invested in him, the said county of Knox to
be organized and entitled to the same rights and privileges as the other
counties in the state.

"This step was soon supplemented by another of equal im.portance; for
there must necessarily be official heads to conduct the public affa-irs of
the ne?/ly organized community. Accordingly, at Ga,lena, shortly afterv/ard,
Judge Young issued an order for an election for the purpose of choosing
three commissioners. This election was held on the 3rd day of July, 1830,
being the first election ever held in Knox County. Fdggs Pennington,
Philip Hash and Dr. Charles Hansford were elected county commissioners
without opposition. The judges and clerks of the election were Jacob Gum,
Nichola,s Voiles, Stephen Osborn, Willisjn McMurtry and Jonathan Reed."-'-

The three commissioners elected in July were to serve only until
their successors were chosen in the regular election in August of the same
year. At this election, held August 2, Riggs Pennington and Philip Hash
were elected to succeed themselves, and Alexander Frrlces was chosen as the
third commissioner. Apparently Dr. Hansford did not stand for election. 2

Selection of County Seat

County organization effected, the next step was the selection of a
county seat. This v/as made possible by "An Act to Establish a Permanent

1. Chas. C. Chapman & Co., History of Knox County, Illinois (Chicago!
Elakely, Brown & Marsh, 1878), p. 128,129.

2. See Roster of County Officers, this inventory, p. 31.

- 10 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

Seat of Justice for Knox County, and for other pur-ooses,"! passed January
15, 1831, "by the Seventh General Assemhly at Vandalia. Section 1 of the
act declared, "That the seat of justice for the county of Knox he, and
the same is hereby permanently established on the southwest quarter of
section twenty-ei^ht, in toivnship eleven north, of range two east of the
fourth principal meridian; and that the county commissioners of the said
county of Knox "be, and they are hereby authorized to purchase, for the
use of said county, the said quarter section of land of the United States,
as provided for by the laws of Congress, and to lay off on the same a
town, which shall be named Henderson."

County Boundaries Re-defined

This same act re-established the boundaries of Knox County, adding
the present civil townships of Rio, Ontario, Walnut Grove, and Lynn, on
the north, and the tvro civil tovmships of West Jersey and Goshen, on the
east. Re-defining the co\anty bounda,ries, section 2 of the act stated,
"The boundary lines of the county of Knox shall hereafter be as follows,
to wit: Beginning at the southeast corner of township nine north, in range
four east of the fourth principal meridian; thence north on the line betv^een
ranges four and five east to the southeast corner of tovraship tv/elve north,
in range four east; thence east on the line between tovmships eleven and
twelve north to the southeast corner of township twelve north range five
east; thence north on the range line between ranges five and six east to
the northeast corner of township thirteen north range five east; thence
west on the line betv/een townships thirteen and fourteen north to the
fourth principal meridian; thence south with said meridian to the southwest
corner of township nine north, in range one east; thence east on the line
between townships eight and nine north to the place of beginning. "2

In the establishment of Stark Coiinty in 1339, the legal voters in West
Jersey and Goshen, the two eastern tovmships added to Knox in 1831, were
directed by lav/ to express their preference at an election as to whether
they desired to become part of Stark, or preferred remaining with Knox. 3
The vote goin?^ against Knox County, the tv/o townships accordingly became
part of Stark, leaving Knox County with the same area and boundaries it
possesses today.

First Meeting of County Commissioners

After the election on July 3, 1830, a special term of the county
com-p.issioncrs ' court was called to asscnble at the house of John B. Gum
on July 7, 1830. The commissioners were sworn in by Stephen Osborn, the
sheriff-elect, and the court v/as declared duly organized for the trans-
action of business. John B, Gum was appointed clerk of the court. ^ On
July 9, 1830, Gum declined the a.TOointment of clerk and John G. Sajiburn

1. L.1831, p, 62.

2. Ibid., p. 62,63,

3. L.1859, p. 229,230, sec. 2.

4. County Commissioners' Court Record, v. 1, p. 1. (See entry 2,
this inventory) .

■ - 11 -

Historical Sketr-h (First entry, p. 77)

was appointed in his stead. As San"burn was sworn in as clerk of the court
"by Philip Hash, commissioner, he is considered to "be the first clerk of the
county. On the sane day the court ordered that the temporary seat of
Justice for Knox County iDe located at the house of John B, Gum, Esq.; that
the next general election "be held on the first Monday of August next; that
the clerk procure a suitatle seal for the court and for the circuit court,
as well as all necessary books for the circuit and county coroniissioners'
courts; and that the sum of seventy-five. cents he allowed to each judge
and clerk for the election held July 3rd, John B, G-^un was appointed
treasurer .and ordered to give hond in the sun of $500,

On July 17, 1830, it was ordered that for the election of justices of
the peace and constables, the county was to be hereby divided into two
districts; the first district called "Henderson District" was to include
all that part of the county lying north of the township line between
townships 10 and 11 north (14 present civil townships); the second dis-
trict called "Spoon River District" v/as to consist of all that part of .
the county lying south of the tov/nship line (8 present civil townships),
A petition also was addressed to the county commissioners' court of Pul-
ton County, requesting that they furnish Knox County with a list of s-11
lands lying in Knox County assessed for taxation, and that they relinquish
to Knox County the right to collect taxes.^

Th.^ soundness of the financial affairs of the young and ambitious coun-
ty at this time, is revealed by an examination of the record of the county
commissioners' court at its meeting on March 7, 1831, The first receipt is-
sued to the sheriff by the treasurer, for the sun of $19,32, was for taxes
collected on personal property; on this collection the sheriff's commis-
sion was $1,56,^ The treasurer's first financial statement, March 7,
1831, shov;ed total receipts aiTiounting to $341.32 and expenditures of
$10,75, leaving an imposing balance of $330.57 on hand,"

First Contracts for Construction of Courthouse

With county affairs humming, it now became the immediate concern of the
commissioners' court to build a courthouse and lay out the county seat.
On March 12, 1831, therefore, it was ordered that a contract be entered
into for the erection of a courthouse, to be built under two separate
contracts," It also was ordered that a contract be entered into for posts
and stakes for laying out the town at the seat of justice, William Lewis

1, County Commissioners' Court Record, v. 1, p, 2, (See entry 2, this
inventory)

4,

2.

Ibid.,

p.

3,

3.

Ibid.,

p.

4,

4,

Ibid.,

p.

6.

5,

Ibid.,

p.

7,

6.

Ibid.,

p.

12.

7.

Ibid.,

p.

13.

8.

Ibid. ,

p.

15.

9,

Ibid,,

p.

16,

- 12 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p, 77)

was awarded the first contract of $78,00 for the construction of the
courthouse; Parnach Owen was awarded the second contract of $100, for
the completion and furnishing of the courthouse; and Andrew Ostorne was
awarded the contract of $15.00 for the posts and stakes and to lay out
the town. The commissioners ordered on March 26, 1831, that some suitable
person "be employed to proceed to the land office at Springfield, as agent
for the county of Knox, to secure title to the quarter section designated
"by law as the permanent seat of justice; Reese Jones offered to go for the
svun of $8.00 and also to give bond; the offer was accepted and he was
given $205 to pay for the land in addition to his $8.00 salary,

Parnach Owen received a contract on April 1, 1831, to lay out the
town of Henderson for a consideration of twelve and one-half cents per lot,
and on April 23rd was allov;ed $18.25 for surveying^the town, this sum to
Tdg acceptable as payment agiiinst purchase of lots. "^ An order had been given
earlier that there would be a public sale of lots in the town of Henderson
on April 23rd; at this sale lots sold at prices ranging from $2.00 to $60.00
with a total of seventy-nine lots selling for $1,256.

Early Care of the Indigent

As indicative of the responsibility assumed for the care of the poor
and unfortunate practically from the beginning of the county's organi-
zation, on May 2, 1831, Joshua Stinson, a lunatic pauper, was placed in
the care of Stephen Osborn. Bids were asked for his keeping to be s\ib-
mitted on May 20th, and on that day Osborn received $6.00 for keeping
Stinson,^ On September 12, 1855, it was ordered that the west one-half
of the southwest quarter of section twenty-one be purchased for a coun-
ty farm, 6 The overseers of the poor were ordered to remove all paupers
to the county poor farm on May 14, 1856.'^ The board of supervisors on
May 29, 1866, allowed a bill for $300 of W. V, Boyingtcn, architect, for
plans and specifications for a poorhouse; also a committee was authorized
to purchase land near G-alesburg for a poor farm and to proceed with its
construction. The land purchased was never used and the poorhouse was
built on the land or farm originally purchased, located near ICnoxville, A
resolution was adopted September 11, 1857, changing the na-ne from Poor House
to Alms House, Today the institution is known as the Knox County Home and
Hospital. ^°

1, County Commissioners' Court Record, v, 1, p, 17, (See entry 2, this
inventory)

2, Ibid., p. 20, 21.

3, Ibid., p, 22, 29,

4, Ibid., p. 25.

5, Ibid., p, 30, 31,

6, Proceedings of Board of Supervisors, v. A, p, 92. (See entry 2,
this inventory)

7, Ibid., p. 131.

8, Ibid., p. 232, 233.

9, Ibid., V, B, p. 338.

10. Ibid,, V, S, p. 527, March 20, 1917.

- 13 -
Historical Sl:etch (First entry, p. 77)

First County Buildings

On September 17, 1831, the commissioners' court abandoned the house
of John 2. Gum and met for the first time in the first courthouse of
Knox County; the final contracts for the finishing of the courthouse were
also let that day.-'- One year later, on September 14, 1832, the county
clerk, John G-. Sanburn, offered to build a jail for the county for $240.2
Sanburn must have been a busy man, as over two years elapsed, before, on
December 2, 1834, he was given an ultimatum by the board to complete the
jail in two weeks "by hanging the door and securing the same. "3 This jail
served the county for seven years, ■until on January 25, 1841, a contract
was let to Zelotes Cooley to build a jail for the svm of $8,724, to be
located on lot 5, block 5, in Knoxville.'^ Cooley was paid $300 for an ex-
change of his contract to A. ^ITheeler on March 6, 1841.^ Y/heeler, on March
4, 184-4, was allowed time to complete the jail until March, 1845, and on
that day was paid $2,046 as final payment in full for its construction,
the total cost of \7hich was $7,784.^

Five years after the county commissioners moved into the first court-
house, the need was felt for a larger and more impressive building. There-
fore, on September 7, 1836, the clerk wa,s ordered to issue notices to the
effect tha.t on the first Monday in November the commissioners would receive
drafts and plans for the erection of a suitable courthouse.'^ Henry J.
Runkle, December 5, 1836, was requested to furnish three copies of a suita-
ble draft for a courthouse to be forty feet wide and fifty feet long with
a portico in front supported by Doric stone pilla.rs.^ The classical style
was adopted because at this time, revival of G-reek architecture was the
vogue, and public buildings were made to look like Greek temples. On
March 24, 1838, Alvah Wheeler and Zelotes Cooley entered into a contract
to build a courthouse in Knoxville for the sum of $15,450, to be completed
on or before May 1, 1840.^ That these contractors made better progress with
the building of the courthouse than did the builder of the jail, is evidenced
by the fact that on December 4, 1839, it was ordered thc.t the courthouse,
so far as settled for, be received and be considered the public courthouse

of Knox County. 10

County Commissionors' Court Record, v. 1, p. 40,41. (See entiy 2,

this inventory)

2.

Ibid.,

V'

60.

3.

Ibid.,

■ p.

137.

4.

Ibid.,

, V.

2, p.

416.

5.

Ibid.,

1 P'

478.

6.

Ibid.,

, V.

3. p.

187, 270.

7.

Ibid.,

, V.

1, p.

268.

8.

Ibid.,

, V'

289.

9.

Ibid.,

1 V.

2, p.

59.

.0.

Ibid.,

, p-

260.

- 14 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

Increase in County Revenns

The rise in the revenues of the county nay Tdc gauged Dy the in-
creasing ar.ount of tend required of the cQiJinty treasurer in a period of
twenty years, Wlien Jolin Bp G-ion was appointed treasurer, July 9^ 1P30, his
"bond was $500,, Not quite two years later, on March 10, 1334, Charles
Hansford was appointed treasurer and honded in the sum of $4,000,
Bond of $6,000 was required of George Newman when he was appointed treasurer,
llarch 5, 1835, and $8,000 when re-appointed March 11, 1835."^ Jonn Sads
who was elected treasurer the first Monday in August 1837, filed his hond
of $12,000 with the county coraidssioners' court, September 4, 1837, There
was no increase in the amount of the "bond when Eads v;as re-elected in 1839,
But Henry Arms, elected August 7, 1843, filed his "bond of $17,000 Septenher
4, 1843, with the court, ^ The bonds of the collector wore somewhat larger
in nmount. After 1839, when the sheriff ceased to he collector, Gabriel
Plymate was appointed first collector of Knox County, March 4, 1840, and
on September 7, 1340, filed his bond in the sum of $10,867.,22.^ In 1853,
when the two offices of treasurer and collector were consolidated. William
H. TThitton filed his bond of $16,000 as treasurer to succeed David Edgerton,
and a bond for $37,000 as collector,'^

Roads, Ferries, Bridges

For a number of years, after the county was established in 1830, a
large proportion of the business of the co\mty commissioners' court was
the receiving of petitions for the building of roads, the appointment of
commissioners to view roads, the laying out of road districts, the build-
ing of roads, and the letting of contracts to build ferries and bridges.
The petitioners for roads were required to make a deposit of $6,00, which
was returnable if the report was favorable, thereupon the court appointed
a commission to view out and locate the road. The first petition for a
road from Henderson to the north line of Knox County on the nearest and
best route in the direction of Rock Island was presented by Reese Jones,
J-une 6, 1831; on September 5th the commissioners appointed made a favorable
report, but because no survey was made agreeable to law, the court ordered
that the road be not established as a public road„° James Nevitt pres-
ented a petition March 5, 1362, for a road from Henderson to the south
line of the county in the direction of Canton in Fulton County; county

1, Co-ignty Commissioners' Court Record, v, 1, p, 4, (See entry 2, this
inventory)

2, Ibid. , p, 104.

3, Ibid., p. 152, 214.

4, Ibid„, p. 355.

5, Ibid,, V, 3, p, 159.

6, Ibid., V, 2, p, 297, 348.

7, Ibid,, V. 5, p, 225, 266-58,

8, Ibid., V, 1, p. 32, 36.

Historical Sketch ^ (^i^^^ ^^^^^^ P' '^^^

surveyor Parnach Owen, Perry Morris, and James ITevitt were appointed view-
ers; and on Jiine 4th, the survey notes and plat T^ere accepted and the court
ordered the width of the road to te fifty fopt.- Two road districts were
laid out on June 4th, 1832; James Milane y::xs appointed supervisor of dis-
trict nunher one, and Ja^aes Kevitt appointed supervisor of district number
two •

The commissioners entered into a contract with Simeon Dolph, Septemher
2, 1034, for the huilding of a ferry hoat on Spoon Eiver, to "be completed
in tliree months, and to cost $45,00. On March 4, 1835, Dolph 'vas issued a
license to operate thu ferry on Spoon River for the term of one year, for
a fee or $2,00 plus the clerk's fae,*^ The court on March 10, 1836, ordered
that $42,50 he appropriated out of the road fund for the erection of a "bridge
over Ed-7ards River; this order was issued to Asa Crooks, supervisor of the
Henry road district,"^ Of considerahle help to counties of the day, in huild-
ing and maintaining roads, was "An Act concerning Puhlic Roads" in force
Fehruary 3, 1835, section 16 of V7hich st,",ted that the county commissioners
could enter upon the records of the court the nunher of days ahle hodied men
"between the ages of 21 and 50 were to do work upon public roads as a lahor
tax,^ This nurnher was to he not less than one nor more than five. The
court commissioners in Knox County on April 18, 1835, fixed the numher of
days at two for the ensuing ycar,°

Licenses, Retail Rates

Another interesting sidelight on the work of the county commissioners'
court is found in the issuing of licenses for taverns and stores, and the
retail rates set for spirituous liquors, Samuel White was issued a license
to retail spirituous liquors for the term of one year, July 9, 1830, for
the sum of $2,00; regulatory tavern rates estahlished were: one-half pint
of whiskey, 12 l/2 cents; one-half pint of hrandy, 18 3/4 cents; one-half
pint of wine, 25 cents; one meal, 25 cents; for lodging one person one
night, 12 1/2 cents; for a feed of corn and oats for horse, 12 l/2 cents;
for a feed and stalling for horse for one night, 25 cents," John C,
Owen, upon payment of $4,00 arid clerk's fee, was issued a license to retail
mercliandise, June 13, 1831,^ George Kewman v;as issued a license to keep
a tavern, September 13, 1832, in Henderson; in addition to the fee of
$6,00, he was required to give liJond o.nd po.y the clerk's fee of $1,00,
The firm of Charles Jack & Co., Septemher 2, 1833, was issued a license
to retail merchandise from Aug-ast 21st last; the company paid $8,00 as
a fee hut wis refunded $2,00 as over payment, -^^ Corrohorating a state-

1, County Commissioners' Court Record, v, 1, p, 46, 51, 52, (See entry
2, this inventory)

2, Ihid, , p, 53,

3, *Ibid, , p, 129, 147.

4, Ihid,, p. 202.

5, L.1835, p, 134, sec, 16,

6, Ihid, 1, p, 156,

7, Ihid., p, 4,
&, Ihid,, p, 34.
9. Ihid,, p, 57,

10, Ihid,, p, 81,

- 16 -

Historical Sketch

(First entry, p« 77)

ment of Earnest Elmo Calkins, that "Hoosier lawmakers at Vandalia drafted
their suspicions (of Yankees) into statutes, for while a license to sell
liquor cost $2.00 a year, a license to peddle clocks was fixed at $50.00, "^
is the license issued to John H, Trickey for a payment of $12,50, March
10, 1834, to peddle clocks in said county for a period of three months
from the 8th day of May, 1834.

Change in Name of County Seat

Less than a year after the Seventh General Assemhly had passed the act
establishing a permanent seat of justice for Knox County, and designated that
it "be called Henderson, another law was enacted, DecemlDer 22, 1832, hy the
Eighth General Assemhly, changing the name to Knoxville. Confusion with
rjiother town in Knox County having the same nrme of Henderson, was the
reason for the change. Thus Knoxville, in what today is Knox township,
"becEune and remained the official county seat of Knox County for the next
forty-one years.

Importance of School Commissioner

The school commissioner in the early days had a responsilDle position
in that he was the agent for the sale of school lands, which were the sec-
tions numbered sixteen in each township, Ahraham Swartz was appointed the
first commissioner, September 5, 1831, "but his appointment was rescinded,
September 14, 1832, hocause he failed to furnish bond as required by law,
William McMiortry being appointed in his stead, A school district called
Henderson was established, March 9, 1837; on March 10th the Edgar district
was laid out; and on June 16th the Little Creek school district was created.
Curtis H, Harvey was appointed school commissioner in the place of William
McM-urtry who resigned, March 3, 1840; and on March 4th, Harvey filed his bond
for $12,000. the same day McMurtry presented his last report to the commission-
ers* court.

Organization and Settlement of Galesburg Colony

Probably the most important event in the history of Knox County was
its selection as a site for a religious colony under the leadership of
Rev. George W. Gale in the years 1835 and 1836. In 1834, Reverend Gale
of Whitesboro, New York, v/ho had been engaged in educational work for
many years, worked out a plan for an institution to be located somewhere

1. Earnest Elmo Calkins, They Broke the Prairie (New York: Charles
Scribner's Sons, 1937), p. 80.

2. County Commissioners' Court Record, v. 1, p. Ill, (See entry 2,
this inventory)

3. L.1831, p. 62, sec, 1.

4. Private L.1832, p. 23, sec. 1.

5. Ibid. 2, p. 35, 59.

6. Ibid., p, 301, 309, 327.

7. Ibid., V, 2, p. 285, 286, 291-94,

- 17 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

in the West. His idea was to combine manual lalsor with college work, thus
accomplishing two things: tetter health for the students, and the earning
of sufficient money to support the school. He planned to "buy a township of
land and reserve three sections for a village and college grounds, with the
remainder to te divided into farms to sell at not less than $5 per acre.
He proposed to acquire the land from the government at its standard price
of $1.25 per acre.

Gale first sent an exploring committee out in 1834 to look at lands
in Indiana, Michigan and Illinois; they were to look for land that could
"be quickly turned with a plow, had good drainage, and was available in
the amount needed. Only one of the committee, Thomas Gilbert, got as far
as Knox County where he purchased a farm. Despite the fact that no report
was made "by the committee, the directors of the colony went ahead, raised
approximately seven thousand dollars, and appointed a purchasing committee.
The committee arranged a loan for $10,000 from the Utica Bank. This com-
mittee left Whitestoro in the middle of September 1835, and came to Knox-
ville, where they were told of a large tract of available land some five
miles west of Knoxville. Here the committee found just what they wanted in
thirty thousand acres of prairie land; of this they p-urchased 10,746 4/5
acres or roughly 17 sections at a price of $15,094.84. They located the
town and called it Galeshurg, re-surveyed the lands purchased, "bought some
improved land near Henderson Grove for the use of the first comers, and
then returned to Whitesboro.

With the return of the purchasing committee, a meeting of the sub-
scribers was called to receive their report at Whiteshoro, New York^
January 7, 1836. The report was satisfactory, and a college was provision-
ally organized, to be called, till chartered, "Prairie College." The town-
site was reported, the name "Galesburg" confirmed, and plats of the purchase
were made. Five hundred and sixty acres were reserved for town property,
and one hundred and four acres for college and theological uses. The bal-
ance of the purchase was divided into farms, appraised upon the average
of five dollars per acre, and nearly half sold to purchasers, most of whom
had never seen the soil. In the spring of 1856 several families moved*
arriving at the settlement in June. Others went on with them to prepare
to remove their families in the fall. Mr. John C. Smith of Utica persuaded
several to purchase with him a canal boat in which they embarked their
families and effects.! This party going by boat hoped to save time and
avoid fatigue, but their trip turned out to be a real hardship. 'Hie two
or three months required to go from Buffalo to Cleveland, throxigh the Ohio
Canal to Portsmouth on the Ohio River, down the Ohio to the Mississippi
River, up the Mississippi River to the Illinois River, and up the Illinois
to Copperas Creek near Peoria, forty miles from Galesburg, found every one
of the party sick from fever at the end of the journey. Smith, Isaac Mills,
and Lyman, only lived a short while. Smith dying at Knoxville and the other
men only living a few weeks.

1. Rev. G. W. Gale, A Brief History of Knox College (Cincinnati: C.
Clark, 1845), p. 3-14.

- 18 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p, 77)

The suhscriters to the plan comprised only a fraction of the actual
colonistso Friends and neighbors came with them, and others, hearing of
the enterprise, followedo Intending emigrants on exploring trips caTnCj and
heing pleased with the conditions,, hou^'^ht lando Among then was a conipany
from Vermont, under the leadership of Matthew Chi\n'bers ojid Erastus Svdft,
which "became an influential element in the future history of the settlement.
C, Se Colton, from Maine, looking for a location, visited his old friend,
Mro Ahel Gooddel, and remainedc, In Decenher 1836, ahout forty families
were on the ground, ■'■ More settlers cai-ie in 1837, and hy 1838 very little
of the unreserved colony land remained unsold^ The remainder, no longer
offered on the original terms, was gradually disposed of at advancing
prices, the last "being sold at thirty dollars per acreo

The college organized as Prairie College in Whiteshoro, New York was
incorporated as Znox Mcnual Lahor College hy act of law approved February
15, 1837. The trustees were; John Waters, John G. Sanhurn, Matthew Chamhers,
Erastus Swift, Nehemiah H, Losey, George Hr Wright, Ralph E. Hurlhurt,
George W. Sale, Uehemiah West, Thomas Simjnons, and Parnach Owen, The v/ords
"Manual Lahor" were shortly droisped from this incorporated name, and the
college assuiied its present ncne of Knox College,

Transcription of Land Records

Of importance in assembling fJl the records which concerned the pro-
perty in Knox County was the appointment of Hiram S, Swift as commission-
er, December 3, 1845, to tra,nscribe the records relating to all lands lying
in the county of Knox, in the different recorders' offices in the state in
which they might be legally recorded; he was to be paid 25 cents for each
deed, for transcribing, comparing, cjid certifying to the same as well as
making a complete index of grantors ajid grantees, to be completed by
September 1, 1846; he received $100 to purchase books for those records,
pjid on March 1, 1847, rendered a bill amo-anting to $1,139,34 for transcrib-
ing records found outside Knox County," Ihj.e to the fact that in t>:e
process of establishing counties, one large county would be divided, :nd
the divisions themselves would be further divided and made separate
counties, when the land records v/ere completed, it v.'as sometimes neces-
sary to go to Levi'isto-;n (Fulton County), Rushville (Sctiuyler County),
Pittsfield (Pike County),, Edwardsville (Madison County) and Kaskaskia,
the county seat when Illinois was, but one county, to secure a complete
chain of title to land conveyedc^ Henry H, Riuil^le was ordered, September

1, Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and IZnox County, ^.', Selden Gale,
Geo, Candee Gale, ed., Knox County (Chicago and Nev; York: Munsell
Publishing Company, 1899), p, 562.

2, Ibid,, p. 663.

3, L. 1836-57, Incorporation Laws, p. 33, sec, 1.

4, County Commissioners' Court Record, v. 4, p, 26, 27, 102, (See entry
2, this inventory)

5, Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and Knox Cou-nty, p, 617,

- 19 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p« 77'

10, 1846, to obtain a "book and transcritie tax sales from the sales of
March 1834 to 1840 inclusive. ■'■ Fillian McGowan and Nathaniel Sanhurn were
given a contract June 6, 1849, to uoke indexes to the deed and mortgage
records for the sum of $157 and on Deceiriher 5, 1849, were given a final
payment of $78o50 for completing the work,'^

First County Court

In accord;uice v.'ith the legislation of 1849, a county court vras es-
tahlished in each county, replacing the county coRmissioncrs' courto This
court had a dual functionj the county judge vith tv/o associate j^asticos
acted as administrators of county affairs, while the county judge alone
administered over JMdicial matters. At the election of Novemher 6, 1849,
George C Lanphere was elected county judge, and Alfred Brown of Henderson
and James M, Hunter of Salem were elected associate justices; results of
this election were recorded December 3rd and 7th, 1849, in the county com-
missioners* court record. The new law also made p]!"ovision for each county
to choose between the county court plan or the tovmship plan. If the electo-
rate of a county ivished to continue under a form of government similar to
that of the county commissioners' court to which they Yvere accustomed, they
voted to adopt the new county court by electing a county judge and two
associate justices; if the electorate decided in favor of the tor/nship
plan, then the county was to be divided into tormships, each selecting one
supervisor, with all township supervisors together forming the county board
of supervisors in charge of county business.

Adoption of Township Plan of GovernrAent

At the November election the county court of Knox County became
confused over the plurality of votes in favor of tovmship government, not
realizing that this plurality was not a majority of all the legal voters
in the county. Accordingly, they proceeded on December 5, 1849, quite
illegally, to appoint commissioners to divide the county into tovrnships,"
A summary of this confusion over the adoption of tor.Tiship government,
which at last vras accepted at the November election in 1852, is found in
a History of Knox County, published in Chicago by Charles C. Chap:;ian &
Company:

1, County Commissioners' Court Record, v, 4, p, 88, (See entry 3, this
inventory)

2. Ibid,, p, 328, and v, 5, p, 13,

3, Ibid,, V. 5, p, 1, 10.

4, Ibid., p, 15,

Historical Sketch

(First entry, p. 77)

"The last meeting of tlie' county commissioners' court was held
October 12, 1849o Merrixveather Brownj Alfred Brown and Ainos Ward, "being
memlDers, were all present . . ,

"George Co Lanphere was chosen the first county judge, being elected
Uovenber 6, 1849 - the first Wovenber election held. The first associate
justices were James M, Hunter and Alfred Brov/n, During the existence of
this court the people were agitating the question of township organization
... at the fall election in 1849 a vote was taken 'for' or 'against town-
ship organization', which resulted in 728 votes in favor of the new meas-
ure and 420 ag'j.inst. The election precincts at this time were 12 in number,
and comprised the following: Brush Creek, Pope Creek, Fraker's Grove, Spoon
River, Littler' s Creek, French Creek, Cherry Grove, Victoria, Haw Creek,
Galesburg and Knoxvilleo According to the result of the election as this
court viewed it, the proposition for township organization had been carried
by a handsome majorityo Accordingly at their first meeting they appointed
Joel Lee, Martin B, Mason and John Arnold commissioners to divide the coun-
ty into to\7nships. These comiiissioners constituted each Congressional
tovmship a separate town. They then appointed Monday, Jan, 14, 1850, as a
day for the citizens of the different to'^mships to meet at the usual place
of holding election, and determine by what name their respective tovnaships
should be called. Accordingly upon that day the people assembled and
selected the following ncjaes:

Old Name

Present Name

Old Name Present Name

Indian Point

Same

Maquon Same

Cherry Grove

Cedar

Ohio Haw Creek

Galesburg

Same

Persifer Same

Henderson

Same

Prince Albert Copley
(Ritchfield, 1855)

North Prairie

Rio

Walnut Grove Same

Chestnut

Same

Salem Same

Orange

Same

Liberty Elba

Knoxville

ICnox

Chester Truro

Sparta

Sajie

Worcester Victoria

Ontario

Same

Fraker's Grove Lynn

"... Considerable dissatisfaction began to be expressed in regard to
township organization. It v.'as discovered that according to the lav; it did
not receive a majority of all the legal votes (voters) of the county, the
votes cast at the last presidential election being taken as the number of
legal votes. According to that it fell 500 or 600 short of a majority.
At a meeting held at the schoolhouse in Abingdon, February 23, the following
resolution was adopted shov^fing the feeling then existing in parts of the
county in reference to the new lav;, 'Resolved, That it is a sense of a
mc^jority of this meeting that the law passed at the last session of the
legislature of the State of Illinois, in relation to township organization,
is unconstitutional', ... In the issue of the Knoxville Journal of March,
1850, Julius Manning a wise counselor at law (also circuit judge) ,., had
a lengthy and able article upon the constitutionality of the plan of town-
ship organization as adopted by the legislature ,., given at the request
of the county court, ... While Mr, Manning thought the law vt;as consti-

- 21 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

tutional and would "bo so held "by the courts, yet he thought that it was
not legally adopted "by this county, in that a majority of all the voters
in the county had not cast their "ballots in favor of it, Suhsequontly,
the Supreme Court confirmed the ahle counsel given hy Mr« Manning,

"In the spring of 1850 an election v/as held in the various to'.vnships
to elect supervisors. On the 6th of May the Board met. There were present
M, Sro-.vn, E, Ho Jordan, J, Bunce, J, H^ Bro\.'n, D, Ko Moore, I, M, Wetmore,
J„ DcLong, S» Eo Hale ; J„ Huff. J„ H, Sumner, G, v;. Manly, Jolin Stanley,
Ao G-ross, Jo Arnold, Go Gadveli, Samuel Tucker and J. White. ^ Some un-
important husiness was transacted, and the hoard adjourned never to re-
assemble a:-;r.in,

"The County Court soon ordered another election to vote on the ques-
tion of township organizations This vote, taken at the fall election
NovomlDer 5, 1850, resulted in 673 votes heing cast in favor of the tovm-
ship plan, and 317 votes ago,inst, While this v;as a decided majority of
the number of votes cast, it still v/as not a majority of all the legal
voters in the countyo

ii3

The to\vnship organization plan was allowed to lie dormant during the
year 1851, hut on June 9, 1852, the county court received a petition signed
by the requisite number of qualified voters asking that the question be re-
submitted at the next general election in November; the abstract of votes
submitted for record, December 6, 1852, shov/ed 2,231 votes for township
organization, and 167 votes against; the court then appointed William
Maxwell, Stephen Sc Buffum, and Isaac M, Wetmore commissioners to divide
the county into towns, ^ The first meeting of the board of supervisors
was held June 6, 1853, and the 16 members present proceeded to elect

1, E. Peck, counsellor at law, Illinois Reports (Springfield: Lanphier &
Walker, 1350), XI, 479, 480.

"The people of the State of Illinois, on the relation of Williejn Dav-
enport, appellants vs. Welcome B. Brown, Judge, William E. Buckingham
and William Co Poynter, Associate Justices, and Edgar Babcock, Clerk
of the County Court of Woodford County, appellees." (June term, 1850 -
a test case).

2, County Comjiiis^ioners' Court Record, v, 5, p. 35. (See entry 2, this
inventory) Names given were Many\«:eather Brown, S. M, Jordan, James
Bunce. Samuel W, Erovm, Lyman K. Moore, Isaac M, Witmore, Julius
Belong, John E, Hale, John Huff, James H. Sumner, George W. Manley,
John Stanley, A. Grop, John Arnold, George Cadwell, Samuel Tucker,
and James White,

3, Chas, C. Chapman & Co., History of Knox County, Illinois (Chicago:
Blakely, Brown & Marsh, 1878), p. 146, 247-49.

4, County Commissioners' Court Record (County Court Record), v, 5, p,
207, 219^ (See entry 2, this inventory)

- 22 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

Daniel Meek as chairman for the ensuing year;! four townships were re-
named ty the "board tecause of conflict with towns having identical names;
Cherry Grove was changed to Cedar, Ohio ■became Haw Greek, Ritchfield was
changed to Copley, and Liberty became Elba. 2 Bids were opened June 26,
1854, for the building of fireproof offices for the county and circuit
clerks; Samuel Fox proved to be the low bidder with a bid of $5,375.
This bid was accepted June 27th and a motion carried to erect the build-
ing adjacent to the west side of the courthouse. 3

Coming of the Railroad

The next great development of Knox County, following the establishment
of Galesburg and Knox College, came with the entrance of the railroad into
the county. This began the famous struggle between Knoxville and Galesburg
which brought on the bitter county seat controversy, and engendered many
years of harsh feeling betA^een the two towns. In 1849 the legislature
granted a charter to the Peoria and Oquawka Railroad Company, which was to
have its terminals at Peoria on the Illinois River, and Oquawka on the
Mississippi, due west of Galesburg, Bui'lington, Iowa v/as a short distance
down the river from Oquawka, but being on the opposite side, its citizens
clamored for a terminal there rather than at Oquawka. For awhile Gales-
burg entertained the idea of fighting for a location on this line but
found Knoxville had had the charter of the Peoria and Oquav;ka Railroad
Company amended to establish the line through Knoxville and Monmouth,
Galesbi-irg's rival on the west, missing Galesburg by three miles. A vivid
picture of the struggle is presented in the words of Earnest Elmo Calkins:

"By modern standards both towns (Knoxville and Galesburg) were on the
line. Galesburg was incensed, though possibly not surprised, that Knox-
ville devoted her energies not to securing the road for herself, but to
keeping Galesburg off. She had influence with the legislators at Spring-
field, while Galesburg was still a Whig Abolitionist pariah, among the
prairie towns of Illinois. The Q,uincy Herald referred to 'the little-
nigger-stealing town of Galesburg.' The contest was bitter; all the old
animosity flared up. To 'the moral, social and political differences be-
tween the inhabitants of the two villages was added the economic, for
Knoxville was shrewd enough to guess what would happen once those ener-
getic Yankees got a railroad. That town v/ould outgrow her, and her hold
on the county seat be put in jeopardy. She would almost have no railroad
than have Galesburg share it. "4

1. County Commissioners' Court Record (County Court Record), v. 5, p. 243.
(See entry 2, this inventory) Supervisors were: Daniel Mcok,

W. Selden Gale, Reuben Heflin, J. P. West, J. M. Foster, John 0. Stanley,
J. H. Nicholson, J. L. Jarnagan, E. P. Dunlap, Peter Frans, Asa Haynes,
Edward Crane, Geo. W. Manley, S. S. Buffum, Augustus Lapham, and Wm.
M. Clark.

2. Ibid.

3. Ibid., p. 294, 300, 301.

4. Earnest Elmo Calkins, They Broke the Prairie, p. 203, 204.

- 23 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77]

Just five days after the charter of the Peoria and Oquawka Railroad
was changed, February 15, 1851, the Central Military Tract Railroad was
organized at Galesburg and George G. Lanphere was sent to the legislature
to either secure a change in the Peoria and Oquawka charter making Gales-
turg a station on the line, or to secure the right to construct a rail-
road from Gnles"burg to some point on the Chicago and Rock Island Railroad.
Lanphere successfully put over the latter proposal and in July 1852, the
charter of the Central Military Tract Railroad vias amended giving it the
right to connect with ?,ny railroad leading directly or indirectly into
Chicago. From this a plan was evolved to connect v;ith the Chicago and
Aurora ("branch of the Chicago and Galena Railroad) at Mendota, in LaSalle
County, northeast of Galeshurg. Because eastern capitalists were inter-
ested in the Aurora branch, a meeting between Ghauncey Colton, wealthy
merchant of Galesburg and J-ames F. Joy representing John Murray Forbes,
Boston capitalist, was arranged, which resulted in a plan to piece together
several small roads designed to give Galesburg direct access to Chicago.
Thus the Peoria and Oquawka would run from Burlington to Galesburg, the
Central Military Tract Railroad to Mendota, and the Aurora branch would
carry the route into Chicago. Galesburg was called upon to raise the sum
of $300,000 to convince the capitalists that it really wanted the rail-
road connection with Chicago. The task of raising this much money from
a small prairie town was tremendous, but its citizens succeeded. Work
proceeded from the eastern end and in December 1854, the first train
pulled into Galesburg. In 1856 came the consolidation of these roads with
several others into the Chicago, Biirlington and Q,uincy Railroad.

The advent of the railroad brought population and prosperity to Gales-
burg. Farm products now could be shipped to Chicago and othur markets, and
conversely the town now became a distributing point for merchandise, farm
machinery and other equipment. Knox College and other schools attracted
students and visitors from all sections of the United States. Indicative
of the wealth of Knox County, the greatest proportion being in Galesburg.
is the abstract of assessment of property for the year 1854,. which sho\7S a
value of $4,443,271, with personal property valued higher than real estate. 1
Another index of the increase in the wealth of the county is fo'ond in a
comparison of the tax collector's reports for 1844 and 1855, which show for
the former year collections amounting to $3,137.30,2 gj^^ fo^ the latter
year, total taxes of $59, 349.47. ^

Controversy on Removal of CoTinty Seat

The stage v/as noxt set for the long dra'JVTi out fight to move the county
seat from Knoxville to Galesburg, The leader of the Galesburg faction
was W. Selden Gale, son of the founder of Galesburg, and the first super-

1. County Commissioners' Court Record (County Court Record), v. 5, p. 65.
(See entry 2, this inventory)

2. Ibid., V. 3, p. 271.

3. Suporvisors' Record, v. A, p. 94. (See entry 2» this inventory)

- 24 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

visor elected to represent the present G-aleshurg township in 1853. Al-
though the entire county hoard was arrayed against him in the beginning,
Gale fought determinedly on. The strategy employed by him in this con-
flict is best revealed in a history of Knox County edited by him and
his grandson, George Candee Gale:

"In the Constitutional Convention of 1862, a proposition of W.
Selden Gale, delegate from Knox, to give to County Boards the power to
call elections for county seat removals was adopted, but left out in
final revision, as possibly endangering the popular vote in some local-
ities on the adoption of the proposed new organic law. The hope was
that, by taking such action away from the Legislature, the question might
be eliminated as a disturbing element in political conventions, relegating
it to its proper place as a purely county issiie... In the session of 1863,
an act was introduced applying the principle to Knox County, but before
final passage an amendment limited its operation to two years, thereby
destroying its value to the people of Galesburg, since no one contemplated
or desired an election at that time.-'-

"In the session of 1865, under the influence of some enthusiastic and
sanguine citizens of Galesburg, an act was passed providing for the re-
moval of the seat of government of Knox County, if such change were favored
at an election to be held April 4, 1865,2 An active effort to carry the
election was promptly put on foot. A gift to the county of $75,000, to be
used in constructing a courthouse, was pledged, and secured by a bond, ex-
ecuted by many of the wealthiest men in Galesburg. A building site with-
out cost was promised. Plans for an elegant building, with jail included,
to cost not more than $75,000, were procured and exhibited. Liberal (and
even irresistible) as the offer appeared to those proffering it, it met
with a cold reception in the county. Every town except Galesburg and one
other voted against it, most of them by a large majority, "3

Supervisor Gale, on Januarj' 9, 1866, presented to the board a petition
from the citizens of Galesburg asking for a division of the town of Gales-
burg; division was established and called the Tovm of 7est Galesburg.*^
Care was taken to draw the line of division through the center of the city
of Galesburg so that there would be an equal number of voters in each town.

1. Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and Knox County, p. 638. The act
referred to was an act to enable the people of the county of Knox to
remove their county seat. In force February 2, 1863. L.1863, p. 54.
See also an act to authorize the City of Galesburg to borrow money,
to be appropriated for the erection of coimty buildings. In force
February 14, 1863. Private L.1863, p. 173.

2. Private L.1865, v. I, p. 548, An act to enable the people of the
county of I'Inox to vote upon the removal of the county seat. In force
February 14, 1865.

3. Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois gmd Knox County, p. 638,

4. Supervisors' Record, v. B, p. 200,204, (See entrj'- 2, this inventory)

« 25 -

Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

E. B, Rhea, supervisor from Salem township on April 30, 1866, challenged the
right of supervisors from the towns of Galesburg and West Galesburg to take
seats on the hoard; and on May 1st a committee reported that the towns of
G-alesturg and West Galesburg were each entitled to a supervisor and an
assistant supervisor. ^ Gale prepared a hill making the city of Galeshucg
one town and the remainder of the township another, and had it introduced
in the legislature, where it was passed February 27, 1867,2 Through the
provisions in section eight of this act, one supervisor was secured to the
town of Galesburg and five to the city. Mr. Gale resigned from the board
of supervisors in 1868 to become a candidate for the legislature, purely
on the county seat issue. Elected by a small majority, he proceeded at
once to introduce a bill providing for the removal of the county seat.
The bill passed March 10, 1869.2 Section six of the act provided that five
commissioners be appointed by the board of supervisors, and that this body
be authorized to contact the city of Galesburg and other persons for gifts
of property, money, or services, conditioned upon the removal. These com-
missioners were appointed at a meeting of the board, March 23,. 1869, At
this same meeting, a vote taken on the reraox'al of. the county seat from
Knoxville to Galesburg showed 14 for and 9 against. At last W. Seldon Gale
had succeeded in winning the support of the board.

Again referring to the history edited by Mr. Gale: "On March 25, the
commissioners reported to the Coujity Board an ordinance of the city of
Galesburg, and submitted a bond, signed by the Mayor, and authorized by
such ordinance, for the performance of the stipulations: - The city to
provide for the county, free of expense, Dunn's Hall (or other suitable
rooms) for court and jury rooms for the period of ten years; to convey to
the county a site for a clerk's office, and erect thereon a fireproof build-
ing, to be larger than the one at Knoxville, the plans for the same to be
approved by the county; to pay all expenses of removal; to convey a suitable
lot for the erection of a jail and to pay $20,000 towards the cost of build-
ing it, to convey, as a site for a courthouse. Block 39, conditioned on its
being occupied for that purpose; and to grant the right to build a court-
house on the public square. The commissioners also reported deeds de-
livered to them for Block 39 and a lot for a jail, also two certificates
of deposit in the First National Bank of Galesburg, each for $10,000,
The report was printed and scattered broadcast throughout the county, and
the voters were thoroughly canvassed, within the limited time allowed, by
able advocates on both sides."

An abstract of votes of the election held April 6, 1869, in the sever-
al towns and city of Galesburg of Enox County for removal of the county
seat to Galesburg, showed 4,212, for removal, and 4,459, against; 90 blank

1. Supervisors' Record, v. B, p. 215, 224, (See entry 2, this inventory)

2. Private L.1867, v. 3, p. 411,

3. L.1869, p. 153.

4. Ibid. 1, p. 452.

5. Historical Encyclopedia of Illinois and Knox County, p. 639.

- 26 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

votes were cast. The excitement that followed is best described in the
words of Earnest Elmo Calkins: "Immediately there v/as uproar and recrimi-
nation. Galesburg cried 'fraud'; Knoxville retorted 'fraud yourself I'
Galesburg excitedly pointed out that Knoxville' s vote was three times the
average vote of the tovmship. Where did it get all those citizens?
Knoxville shrugged her shoulders, replied the town had grown, and wanted
to know vifhy Galesburg' s vote was at least a fourth larger than normal.
It v;as evident that both sides had 'stuffed' the ballot boxes, Knoxville
successfully. Knoxville had guessed Galesburg would do that and prepared
to beat her at her own game, arguing that both returns would be throYm
out, and she would win on the county vote, Tifhich was overv/helningly in
her favor. She guessed right, but argued wrong. "2

A resolution was adopted by the board of supervisors, May 10, 1869,
that a committee be appointed to investigate the result of the election;
and May 11th the committee made a lengthy report with several affidavits
attached; also the sheriff served a summons upon the board of supervisors,
James J. Egan (county clerk), James W. Temple (circuit clerk), and Dennis
Clark (county judge), in the chancery suit of George Davis vs. the above
named officials. 3 The story is told at greater length by Calkins:

"The supervisors met and canvassed the vote, over protests from the
Knoxville contingent that such a step was illegal, that supervisors had
no authority to take such action. A committee was appointed, three from
Galesburg, two from Knoxville, to investigate the report.'^ The report was
presented, finding that Knoxville' s legal vote was 639 instead of 1,520,
deducted the 884 illegally ca.st, a,nd changed the result from a majority
of 247 against to 634 in favor of the removal. It whitewashed Galesburg
completely, pointing out the growth brought by the railroad, ojid that
rival candidates in the city had watched the polls closely, .and that no
frauds wore possible...

"Upon T;hich a summons v;as served on the en^^ire board of supervisors
to appear at the June term of the circuit court to answer to a bill of
complp.int brought by a taxpayer, really a test case that had been cocked
up to settle the matter... The court found that while Ga.lesburg had
sinned, Knoxville had sinned more; that the election in that tov/nship
was illegal, false, fraud\ilent, and void; that even with the Galesburg
illegal votes thrown out Galesburg still had a majority of 200, that while
both sides had evidently cheated, Knoxville had cheated most, and that
therefore Galesburg had won. The decision contained permission to ap-
peal. • .^

1. Supervisors' Record, v. 3, p. 454. (See entry 2, this inventory)

2. Earnest Elmo Calkins, They Broke The Prairie, p. 317,318.

3. Ibid. 1, p. 459, 469-76.

4. See Appendix, A.

5. See Appendix, B. One of the issues raised in the appeal, however,
resulted in a Supreme Court ru.ling, which affected the naturalization
jurisdiction of all county courts in Illinois, and courts similarly
organized in other states. See Appendix, C.

- 27 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

"The Illinois Supreme Court (January term 1872),-'- while it reduced the
votes of both Knoxville and Galesburg, making the majority ICO, confirmed
the finding of the lower court. Galesburg went wild v;ith joy. At the next
meeting of the board of supervisors, steps were talcen to start the removal
and begin the building of the jail. They were stopped by an injunction.'''
A long and bitter protest from Knoxville was read to show that the supreme
court had reduced Knoxville' s vote to 311, whereas it had and could prove
a legal vote of 700, which would drown Galesburg' s meager 100 allowed by
the same court. The protest was spread on th° minutes, but that was all
that was done about it. The injunction was dissolved.

"Knoxville p;ave up the fight to prove the election illegal, conceded
the success of Galesburg, and instead managed to secure a new election,
this time to move the county seat from Galesburg back to Knoxville. The
second election was held. Watchers from the two toTns involved were posted
at the opponents' polls to insure integrity. The contest was close, 5,785
to 5,309, Galesburg winning by 476. Geographically the county was for
Knoxville since of the twenty townships only six sided with Galesburg.
Galesburg won solely by her ovm vote. The closeness of the decision
caused friction in the board for many years, during all the time of build-
ing the new courthouse, and delayed its commencement for fifteen years
after the decision was made."

Removal of Records to Galesburg

^TrTiile the commissioner of public buildings reported to the board
September 14, 1869, that the mayor and aldermen of the city of Galesburg
had built a fireproof building for use of the county and circuit clerks
which would be ready whenever the board should order the removal of the
records and papers,'* it was not until January 30, 1873, that such re-
solution was adopted. The clerks and sheriff were ordered to remove the
books, papers and furniture to the city of Galesburg, and to send all
bills for expenses to the city of Galesburg.^ Another resolution adopted
at this January meeting was for adjournment, and ordered the board to meet
in four weeks time at the county clerk's office in the city of Galesburg.
This meeting took place February 27, 1875, forty-one years and six months

1, Norman L. Freeman, reporter, Illinois Reports, "Board of Supervisors
of Knox County et al . vs. George Davis et al . " (Springfield, 1874),
LXIII, 407.

2. Removal of the county seat did not take place until February 1875, when
an injunction was issued against the building of the jail by Circuit
Judge Thomas F. Tipton of McLain County; see Supervisors' Record, v. C,
p. 191, March 13, 1873; for protest see s;ime volume, pages 193-93.
This was the second meeting in Galesburg, the first being Teoruary
27th. For 'abstract of votes of November 11th election to decide re-
moval back to Knoxville, see same vol^ume, p. 285,

5. Earnest Elmo Calkins, They Broke The Prairie, p. 318, 519.

4. Supervisors' Record, vT 3, p. 48'6.^ ~X^3ee "en¥ry 2, this inventory)

5. Ibid,, V. C, p. 170.

- 28 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 7?)

after the county commissioners first met September 17, 1831, in the new
log courthouse at Knoxville, then called Henderson,

Uew Courthouse

But Galesburg did not immediately secure a courthouse. A resolution
adopted April 15, 1873, shows that the hoard of supervisors was to hold
its regular meetings at the Opera House. ^ Not until April 17, 1884 was a
resolution adopted appointing a committee on public building whose duty
it was to prepare plans for the building of a ccurthcuse; on October 24th
final bids were opened and that of Dawson & Anderson, amounting to
$114,311.52 for stone construction was accepted, 2 The first meeting of
the board of supervisors in the new courthouse v;as held January 11, 1887,3
The total amount expended on the courthouse including furnitiiro, fixtures,
equipment, and the improvement of the grounds was $156,261, as shoiTn in a
report by the county clerk to the board of supervisors, Scptcmbur 11, 1889,^

Lincoln and Douglas Debate

Permission granted by the board of supervisors, September 8, 1903, to
the Mother Bickerdyke Memorial Association to erect a statue in her
honor on the courthouse grounds, 5 recalls the days of the Civil War and
events in the lives of Abraham Lincoln and Stephen A. 'Douglas. Mother
Bickerdyke, and this was the only name by which she was known, was a
second Florence Nightingale who visited camps and hospitals doing what
she could for the soldiers of the North, One of her memorable acts was
to return to Knox County, and with the help of different women's organi-
zations, to assemble two hundred cows and one thousand chickens, ^7hich
she took to Memphis for the Union Army.

Stephen A. Douglas probably was better acquainted with Knox County
than Abraham Lincoln, Douglas was a justice of the supreme court and
traveled the 5th judicial district as circuit Judge from 1841 to 1843,
Three of the circuit court dockets with court orders written out by judge
Douglas are among the records preserved by the circuit clerk, 6 Galesburg
also was the scene of one of the famous Lincoln-Douglas debates. The de-
bate was hold October 7, 1858, on a platform constructed at the northeast
comer of the principal building of Knox College. This building was for
men students and was erected in the years 1856 and 1857. This ccllogo hall,
now known as "Old Main" (for illustration, see cover), .is still standing,
and was set aside as a National Historical Shrine shortly after an enabling
act to provide for the preservation of American historical sites, buildings,
was passed by Congress in 1935. Galesburg was a particularly well chosen
city for a debate en the question of slavery. Its citizens were strongly

1. Supervisors' Record, v. C, p, 216. (See entry 2, this inventory)

2. Ibid., V. E, p, 220,282-64.

3. Ibid., V. F, p. 532.

4. Ibid., V, G, p, 232,

5. Ibid., V. L, p, 12,

6. See Judge' s Docket, entry 231, this inventory.

- 29 -
Historical Sketch (First entry, p. 77)

opposed to slavery, and it was known as an important station on the
Underground Railroad which helped slaves escape to Canada.

Patriotism of Knox County

Knox County's attitude in the prosecution of the Civil War may he
gleaned from the resolution passed by the board of supervisors, May 13,
1861, which required the sheriff to erect a suitable standard with the
flag of the American Union thereon, the same to be displayed during the
sessions of the board and circuit court as evidence of devotion to the
Constitution, the Union, and the enforcement of the laws. But Knox
County did more than this; in furnishing men and money, it more than
exceeded its quota. Bounties were granted to first volunteers, and to
those who volunteered for three years; provision also was made for the
care of the families of these volunteers. The same patriotic spirit
was shown in the World War when on June 11, 1917, $5,000 was appropriated
to the Knox County Chapter of the American Red Cross. "^

Present Status

Because of its excellent soil, Knox County's main interest has always
been agriculture. While corn is the principal crop, there is also much
diversified farming, and lately dairying has forged to the front. One
of her citizens, Harvey Henry May who came to Galesburg in 1837, is
credited with inventing the steel plow. On the industrial side, one of
the largest paving brick manufacturing plants in the United States is
found in East C-alesburg. Another rich source of labor and income to
the people of Knox County is the large yards and tie-treating plant
maintained by the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Railroad at G-alesburg.
Several thousand people find steady employment here and the wages paid
monthly amount to hundreds of thousands of dollars. The Santa Fe is
another principal railroad passing through G-alesburg. Galesburg is also
known as a shipping point for horses and mules; it has been called the
mule capital of America. With an estimated present population of 30,000 ,
Galesburg is the largest city in the county, and serves as the shopping
center for a fifty mile radius. Knox County has an area of seven
hundred and twenty square miles, and is bounded on the north by Henry
Co-unty, on the east by Stark and Peoria Counties, on the south by Fulton
County, and on the west by Y/arren and Mercer Counties. Its population
at the time of the Fifteenth Census, April 1, 1930, was 51,336,

1. Supervisors' Record, v. A, p. 395. (See entry 2, this inventory)

2. Ibid., V. T, p. 11.

- 30 -

MAJOR CHANGES IN KNOX COUNTY BOUNDARIES

1825-1831

n

^

y

1839--.

831- 1839

- 31

(First entry, p. 77)

ROSTER OF COUMTY OFFICERS* ,
(Date after name of officer refers to
date of commission, unless otherwise stated)

County Commissioners**

(Subsequent to 1849, county commissioners replaced

ty county judge and two associate justices until

1853, when county toard of supervisors assumed

administration of county 'busini^ss)

Riggs Pennington, Philip Hash, James Ferguson, Eldert Runkle,

'Alexander Frances, August 2, 1830*** Joseph Rowe, August 1, 1836

Thomas Maxv;ell, John H. Wentvorth, Jonathan Rice,

March 26, 1831 John Jackson, August 6, 1838****

James Ferguson, Alfred Brown, Jonathan Rice,

John D. Rountree, August P, 1832 August 5, 1839

James Ferguson, Jonathan Rice, Asa Haines,

Joseph Rowe, August 4, 1834 August 3, 1840

* This list was compiled from the following sources:

1, Secretary of State, Index Department, Election Returns,
Returns from County Clerk to Secretary of State, 1809-47,
78 volumes (1-78), third tier, hay 1. 1848—-, 53 file
drawers (2-54), third tier, hay 2, State Archives Building,
Springfield, 111.

2. Secretary of State. Executive Department.

Certificates of Qualification, 1819 — , 22 file drawers (1-22),
fourth tier, hay 5, State Archives Building, Springfield, 111,
3, (A) Secretary of State, Executive Department Official Records,
List of Commissions Issued to County Officers, 1809-1918, 5
volumes, fourth tier, hay 6, State Archives Building, Spring-
field, 111.
(B) Secretary of State, Executive Department Official Records,
List of Commissions Issued to County Officers, 1869 — , 4
volumes, room 208, second floor, Secretary of State's office.
Executive Department, State Capitol Building, Springfield, 111,
** All dates after commissioners' names indicate the year elected.

Riggs Pennington, Philip Hash and Dr, Charles Hansford had heen elected
commissioners, July 3, 1830, to serve until their successors were cho-
sen; by law, commissioners were to he elected in August of alternate
years; the county heing organized in 1830, held a regular election
in August; Dr. Hansford was not a candidate, the fourth was Thomas
Maxwell,

By a law passed in 1837, the three commissioners elected in 1838 drew
lots for one, two, and three years to determine their length of term.
Subsequently, one commissioner was elected each year to &erve a three-
year term.

***

- 32 -

Roster of County Officers

(First entry, p. 77)

County Commissioners (cont.)

Samuel B. Anderson,

August 2, 1841
Amos Vferd,

August 1, 1842
Daniel Meek,

August 9, 1843
Samuel B. Anderson,

August 5, 1844
Martin B. Mason,

August 4, 1845

Amos Ward, Marraweather Brcvm,

(to fill vacancies), Alfred
Brown, August 3, 1846
Amos Ward,

August 2, 1847
Marraweather Brown

Aug-ast 7, 1348
(Marravjeather Brown, Alfred Brown,

Amos Ward the last county

commissioners)

County Board of Supervisors
(The several township supervisors; one elected from each township,
together with any additional and assistant supervisors elected upon pro-
portional representation, make up the membership of the county board of
supervisors. Because these supervisors as individuals are tovmship
officials, and only as a group constitute the county board, they are not
commissioned by the State as county officers, and no data concerning
them, from which a list could be compiled, are kept by the State. For
names of township supervisors comprising the first legal board of county
supervisors, see Historical Sketch, p. 22)

County Clerks
(Clerk of the county commissioners' court, of the county and
probate courts, and of the county board of supervisors)

County Commissioners' Court
Henry J. Runkle,*

August 7, 1837,

August 5, 1839,

August 9, 1843 (Dates Elected)
Zelotes Cooley,

August 2, 1847 (Date Elected)

County Court
(Prior to Township Organization)
Zelotes Cooley,

November 23, 1849

County Court, Board of Super-
visors
Zelotes Cooley,

December 1, 1853
John S. Winter,

November 25, 1857,

November 16, 1861
James J. Egan,

November 27, 1865

John S. Winter,

November 12, 1869,

November 18, 1873,

December 1, 1877
Albert J. Terry,

December 1, ].882,

December 6, 1886
Moses 0. Williamson

November 26, 1890,

November 20, 1894,

November 28, 1898 (Resigned
December 11, 1900)
Frank L. Adams,

January 12, 1901,

May 23, 19C1.

November 24, 1902,

November 27,
November 30,
November 27,
November 30,

19C6,
1910,
1914,
1918

For names of earlier, appointed clerks of County Commissioners' Court,
see Historical Sketch, p. 10, 11.

- 33 -

Roster of Gounty Officers

(First entry, p. 77)

County Clerks (cont.)

Fred G. Hallo way

September 27, 1921

George A. Larson,

November 27, 1922,

November 29, 1926,

November 4, 1930 (Date Elected)

IJovember 6, 1934 (Date Elected)

John G. Sanbirrn,
January 17, 1831

George Newman,

August 24, 1835,
August 17, 1839,
August 17, 1843

Recorders
(In 1849 the circuit clerk
became ex-officio recorder)

Lorenzo D.
August

Montgomery,
35, 1847

Probate Judges and Probate Justices of the Peace
(in 1849, probate justices succeeded by county
judge as ex-officio judge of the probate court)

Prcbate Judges
John G. Sanbiorn,

February 10, 1831
Henry P. Runkle,

October 24, 1835,
February 17, 1837

Probate Justices of the Peace
Robert L. Hannaman,

September 11, 1837
William King,

August 29, 1839
Robert L. Hannaman,

August 31, 1843,

August 25, 1837

County Court Judges

George C. Lanph-

ere.

November 23,

1849,

November 20,

1850

H. C. Reynolds,

December 1,

1853

Leander Douglas

s.

November 25,

1857

Alfred M. Craig

1

November 16,

1861

Dennis Clark,

November 28,

1865,

November 12,

1869,

November 18,

1873,

December 1,

1877,

December 1,

1882

Patrick H. Sanford,

December 6,

1886,

November 20, 1890,

November 23, 1894
Philip Sidney Post,

Novumbor 19, 1898
J. D. Welsh,

November 24, 1902
R. C. Rice,

November 27, 1906,

November 30, 1910,

November 27, 1914 (Resigned)
W. C. Frank,

December 6,. 1917,

November 30, 1918
Edward S. Stickncy,

November 27, 1922
Riley E. Stevens,

November 29, 1926

- 34 -

Roster of County Officers

(First entry, p. 77)

County Court Judges (cent.)

Rodney L. Stewart,

November 4, 1930, Novemtier 6, 1934 (Dates Elected)

Circuit Court Clerks
(Prior to 1848, circuit clerk appointed by circuit judge*)

1852

1856

J. Judson Hale,

September 4, 1848 (Date Elected)
Hiram T. Morey,

November 23,
Cephes Arms,

November 15,
John H. Lewis,

November 14, 1860
John Aberdein,

November 29, 1864
James W. Temple,

November 17, 1868
George L. Hannaman,

November 16, 1872,

November 27,

December 1,
Josiah Gale,

November 28, 1884,

December 3, 1888 (Deceased)

1876,
1880

George W. Gale,

September 6, 1889 (Appointed)
Charles G. Gibbs,

October 23, 1889 (Deceased)
Samuel V. Stuckey,

February 10, 1890 (Appointed),
November 20, 1890,
1892,
1896,
1900,
1904

7,

30,
1,

November

December

November

December
Charles H. V/estenberg,

November 23, 1908,

November 27,

December 2,

November 29,

November 25,

November 28,

November 8,
Klaus Nordgren,

November 3, 1936 (Date Sleeted)

1912,
1916,
1920,
1924,
1928,
1932 (Date Elected)

Sheriffs

Stephen Osborn,
July 19, 1830,
August 21, 1830,
September 5, 1832

Henry D. Bell,

August 29, 1834,
April 3, 1837

Peter Frans ,

August 21, 1838,
August 26, 1840,
August 11, 1842,
August 19, 1844

Henry Arms,

August 27, 1846,
August 17, 1848

Samuel W. Brown,

November 20, 1850

John Eads,

November 23, 1852

Cornelius Runkle,

November 17, 1854
George W, Enko ,

November 15, 1856
Andrew Thompson,

November 24, 1858
Elijah C. Brott,

November 14, 1860
I. Calvin Cover,

November 13, 1862
James Soles,

December 8, 1864
David W. Bradshaw,

November 13, 1866
Wilkins Seacord,

November 17, 1868
Sam'l F. Patten,

November 23, 1870

*The three circuit clerks appointed by the circuit judge, 1830-47, were:
John G. Sanburn, 1830-45; Achilles Shannon, 1845-46; Alex Sanders, 1846-47.

35 -^

Roster of Co'inty Officers

(First entry, p. 77)

Sheriffs (cent.)

A. (August) W. Berggren,
Novem'ber 16, 1872,
Novem'ber 27, 1874,
November 27, 1876,
Decen'ber 2, 1878

John A. Stuokpy,

Decerahcr 1, 1880,
Deoeinber 1, 1882

James Richey,

December 6, 1886

Robert G. Mathews,
November 26, 1890

Owen J. Aldrich.

November 20, 1894

Robert G. Mathews,
November 25, 1898

Charles F. Hurburg,
November 24, 1902

Robert G. Mathews,

November 27, 1906
Frank H. Hooker,

April 10, 1908
Frank F. Seaman,

November 50, 1910
Frank H, Hooker,

November 29, 1914
James T. Tfliecler,

November 50, 1918
Louis A. Wilson,

November 27, 1922
Frank H. Hooker,

November 29, 1926
Louis A. V/ilson,

November 4, 1930 (Date Elected)
Elgin Ross,

November 6, 1934 (Date Elected)

Coroners

Peter Bell,

July 19, 1830
Robert Nance,

August 21, 1830
John D. Rountree,

April 27, 1831
James Goff,

September 5, 1832
William Fleeharty,

August 29, 1834
William McGowan,

August 29, 1835
Alexander M. McKee,

August 27, 1838
Walker L. Bean,

August 15, 1840
Charles Hansford,

August 11, 1842
Stephen Porter,

August 17, 1844,

August 19, 1844
Cornelius Dempsey,

August 27, 1846
Reuben Bailey,

August 23, 1848

(Two entries
as per book)

Joseph Henderson,

November 20, 1850
Jacob W. Brewer,

November 23, 1852
Joseph Henderson,

November 17, 1854
Wm. Hamilton,

November 15, 1856
Alvin H, Potter,

November 24, 1858
Reuben Bailey,

November 14, 1860
Giles Cook,

November 13, 1862
Levi Massie,

January 6, 1865,

November 13, 1866,

November 17, 1868
Jesse W. Kinball,

November 23, 1870
Albert S. Slater,

November 16, 1872,

November 27-, 1874
Dorrance V/. Aldrich,

November 27, 1876

- 36

Roster of County Officers

(First entry, p. 77)

Coroners (cont.)

Albert S. Slater,

December 2, 1878
Dorrance W. Aldrich,

DecemlDer 1, 1880
Altert S. Slater,

December 1, 1882
Dorrance W. Aldrich,

December 1, 1884 (Resigned)
Gilbert L. Knowles,

January 21, 1888,

December 3, 1888
Geo. S. Chalmers,

December 23, 1892,

December 7, 1896,

November 30- 1900

Alexander F. St

ev/art ,

December 1,

1904

Geo. S. Chalmers,

November 23,

1908,

November 27,

1912

(Deceased)

Geo. L. BoT/er;

January 19,

1915,

December 2,

1916,

November 29,

1920,

November 25,

1924:,

November 29,

IF 25,

November 6,

19S8

(Date Elected),

November 8,

1932

(Date Elected),

November 3,

1936

(Date Elected)

State's Attorneys
(Prior to 1849 elected by General Assembly;
1849-72, elected by circuit district electorate)

John T. Tunnicliff,
November 29, 1872,
November 27, 1876,
December 1, 1880,
November 28, 1884,
December 3, 1888

Eugene W, Welch,

November 23, 1892,
December 7, 1896

Addison J. Bontelle,
November 30, 1900,
December 1, 1904

Addison J. Bontelle,

November 23, 1908,

November 27, 1912,

December 2, 1916,

November 29, 1920
R. C. Rice,

November 25,

November 28,
Robert G. Rice,

November
Eugene Hardy,

November 3, 1936 (Date Elected)

1924,
1928

8, 1932 (Date Elected)

County Treasurers
(Assessor and treasurer to 1839 and 1844 to 1853*)

John Eads,**
August 7,
August 5,

Henry Arras,
A\igust 9,
Resigned;

1837,

1839 (Dates Elected)

1843 (Date Elected)
Zelotes Cooley appointed
in his stead, September 8, 1846
David Edgerton,

August 2, 1847 (Date Elected)

Charles Rogers,

November 6, 1849 (Date Elected)
David Edgerton,

November 4, 1851 (Date Elected)
William H. Whitton,

November 8, 1853 (Date Elected)
William McGowan,

November 6, 1855,

December 5, 1857 (Dates Elected)

* For assessment procedure, 1839-44, 1853 to date, see p. 42, 43, 156, 157.
** First three treasurers, 1830-36, appointed; see Historical Sketch, p. 14.

- 37 -

Roster of County Officers

(First entry, p. 77)

County Treasurers (cont.)

George Davis,

November 16, 1859
Thomas A. E. Holcomb,

November 5, 1861 (Date Elected)
John A. West,

November 3, 1863 (Date Elected)
Thomas Harrison,

November 7, 1865 (Date Elected)
Homer Gaines,

November 5, 1867 (Date Elected)
Edwin T. Ellett,

November 2, 1869 (Date Elected)
Francis M. Sykes,

December 2, 1871
Edwin Ellett,

November 18, 1873
James L. Birkhalter,

November 8, 1875,

December 1, 1877,

December 1, 1879,

December 1, 1882
Moses 0: Williamson,

December 6, 1886
Leon A. Townsend,

November 26, 1890

John ¥.. McKie,

November 20, 1894
Harry M. Reece,

November 25, 1898
Ames A. Earlow,

November 24, 1902
Omer N. Custer,

November 27, 1906 (Resigned)
George M. Clark,

February 8, 1909,

June 17, 1909
Geo. J. Eastes,

November 30, 1910
Henry G. Hawkinson,

November 27, 1914
Herbert N. Bloomquist,

November 30, 1918
Andrew 0. Lindstrum,

November 27, 1922
Donald W. Larson,

November 29, 1926
Carl T. Goethe,

November 4, 1930 (Date Elected)
William J. English,

November 6, 1934

Superintendent of Schools
(School Commissioners to 1865)

Curtis K. Harvey,*

August 2, 1841,

August 9, 1843,

August 4, 1845 (Dates Elected)
Achilles Shannon,

August 2, 1847 (Date Elected)
Wm. H. TJhitton,

November 6, 1849,

November 4, 1851 (Dates Elected)
James H. Noteware,

February 28, 1854
Patrick H. Sanford,

November 6, 1855,

December 5, 1857,

November 16, 1859

James H. Knapp,

November 16, 1861,

November 3, 1863 (Date Elected),

November 28, 1865 (First Superin-
tendent of Schools)
Frederick Christianer,

November 12, 1869
Mary Ellen West,

November 18, 1873,

December 1, 1877
William L. Steele,

December 1, 1882

Prior school commissioners appointed were: Abraham D. Swartz, Septem-
ber 5, 1831; William McMurtry, September 14, 1832; and Curtis K. Harvey,
March 3, 1840. See Historical Sketch, p. 16.

" OU -

Roster of County Officers

(First entry, p. 77)

Superintendent of Schools (cont.

Geo. W. Oldfather,

September 1, 1885 (In place of
Steel resigned)

December 6, 1886
Shirley C. Ranson,

November 26, 1890
Mathew Andrews,

December 20, 1892 (in place of
Ranson resigned)

November 20, 1894
Ernest V/ilkinson,

November 25, 1898

Walter F. Boyes,

November 24, 1902,
November 27 ,
November 30,
November 27,
November 30,
October 1,
November 29,
November 4,

1906,
1910,
1914,
1918,
1923,
1926,

1930 (Date Elected)
James Dewey McKibben,

November 6, 1934 (Date Elected)

Surveyor
(Beginning September, 1936, Surveyor ap-
pointed by county board of supervisors)

Parnach Owen,

February 15, 1831
George A. Charles,

August 24, 1835
David Kendel,

August 17, 1839
Lockhart Leighton,

August 17, 1843
Arthur A. Deany,

August 27, 1845,

August 25, 1847,

December 14, 1849
Elias T. Bryram,

November 13, 1851
R. Heatherage,

December 1, 1853
Elias T. Bryram,

November 15, 1855
Alexander Knapp,

November 15, 1857
Elias T. Bryram,

November 16, 1859
Ralph Voris,

November 16,

November 3,

November 28,

November 22,

1861,

1863 (Date Elected),

1865,

1867

David Wiltse,

November 12, 1869

Wm. H. Robinson,

December 2, 1871

Henry J. Vaughan,
November 8, 1875

Ralph Voris,

December 1, 1879,
December 1, 1884

Mills G. Voris,

December 3, 1838

Cornelius S. Richey,
November 23, 1892,
November 3, 1896 (Date
November 30, 1900,
December 1, 1904,
November 3, 1908 (Date
November 5, 1912 (Date

Arthur L. Richey,

December 2, 1916,
November 2, 1920 (Date

Walter J. Diffenbaugh,

November 4, 1924 (Date

Shirley S. Scott,*
November 6, 1928,
November 8, 1932 (Date

Elected),

Elected) ,
Elected)

Elected)
Elected)

Elected)

Also appointed 1936.

- 39 -

(First entry, p. 77)

2. GOVEHmtMTAl ORGANIZATION AM) REGOEDS SYSTEM

Introduction

The county in Illinois is a corporate 'body and an administrative unit
of the state; its governmental organization is at all times largely an ex-
pression of this dual nature.

The growth of the county as a 'body politic is reflected, in each of
the state's three constitutional periods, in a progressive expansion of
the powers r/hich may 'by law 'be exercised by the county 'board, and in the
creation of new, and the extension of existing, county offices. The latter
phase of growth in Knox County and others similarly organized at present,
has also 'been affected "by the adoption of township organization, which
for the first time constituted the civil tovms as an additional level of
government.

An analogous development appears in the state's invasion of new fields
of government and the extension of the county's role as its agent. Original-
ly, the county performed 'but a single important function for the state, that
of collecting its share of the taxes levied jithin the .county. Since then,
however, education, pulDlic health, registrn.tion of vital statistics, pulalic
assistance, and ma.ny similar if less important matters have entered the
province of state control or supervision. To effect this control, new
governmental linits, subcounty districts of various types, have come into
existence or 'been converted to new purposes; the county, 'because of its in-
termediate position, has become more important as a mediiom of that control.

Thus the complete operation of county government in Illinois "brings
into play a number of partly distinct authorities. Their relationships,
at any time, are complex. The changing governmental organization of Knox
County, therefore, is easiest traced from the viewpoint of the major func-
tions of county government.

General Administration

General administrative jurisdiction over county "business has always
heen vested in the county "board. Under the first constitution, for all
counties, the county commissioners' court acted as such a 'body.l It was
expressly declared to have no original or appellate jurisdiction in civil
or criminal actions, 'but had all power necessary to the exercise of its
jurisdiction in cases concerning the pu'blic affairs of the coxinty col-
ectively,2 The commissioners were constitutional officers,"^ and elect-

1. L.1819, p. 175,176,

2. L.1819, p. 176.

3. Constitution of 1818, Schedule, sec, 4,

- 40 -
Governmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

ed;-*- the court existed solely "by statutory provision,'^ Attached to it
in a ministerial capacity was the independent statutory office of clerk
of the county commissioners' court, at first filled at the appointment
of the court, later "by election;^ the clerk was "bonded in the sum of
$1000,6

Under the second constitution, the newl^'^-created county court suc-
ceeded to the position of the county comnissioners ' court,''' As an adminis-
trative "body, 8 it was composed of the county judge, an elected, constitu-
tional officer, 9 and two justices of the peace, statutory officers, ^C* elect-
ed at large. -'•■'- Another new office, that of clerk of the county court, was
created to provide it with a ministerial officer; the clerk also was elect-
ed, and honded in the sum of $3000. ^^

The Constitution of 1848 also made provision, for the first time, for
an optional plan of coiinty government,-'-*^ The subsequent enabling actsl4
provided that whenever the voters of a county might so determine, that
county should adopt to\7nship organization; one of the principal results of
such a change was to alter the legal status of the coiinty "board, 15 Knox
County so elected in 1853, and the county court was succeeded "by a "board
of supervisors, composed of mera"bers elected one in each of the several
townships. 1^ The clerk of the county court was reauired "by law to act as
the ministerial officer of the new county "board. In 1874, however, that
clerk was replaced "by a new officer, the county clerk, whose office had

1. Constitution of 1818, Schedule, sec. 4; L.1819, p. 100; L.1821, p, 100;
R.L.1857, p. 103,104,

2. L.1819, p. 175.

3. Ibid.

4. Ibid.

5. R.L.1837, p. 49; L.1845, p. 28.

6. L.1819, p. 176,177.

7. L.1849, p. 65.

8. The county court ^^as also a court of law. For its legal states and
jurisdiction as such, see Administration of Justice, Courts, p, 45,

9. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 17.

10. L.1849, p, 65,66.

11. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sac. 1,16,19.

12. L.1849, p, 66.

13. Constitution of 1848, Art. VII, sec. 6.

14. By 1853, r/hen Knox County adopted township organization, the original
enabling act (L.1849, p, 190-229) had been repealed by a more compre-
hensive, but essentially similar, law (L.1851, p. 35-78).

15. Other effects of the change, within the sphere of county government
proper, appear with regard to the legal status of certain officers in-
volved in the taxation procedure. See Finances, p, 42.

16. L.1851, p. 38.

17. L.1851, p. 78.

- 41 -
Governmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

been created, and made elective, by the third constitution. The county
clerk was required by law to act as ministerial officer for the county
board, ^ which determined in what amount he should be bonded. The only
other significant change, under the present constitution, in the legal
status of the county board, has been the addition to its membership of
assistant supervisors, elected from the various towns on the basis of
population; the assistant supervisors have no power or duties as town
officers, but are members of the county board and as such enjoy the same
powers and rights as other members.^

Concurrent with the changing legal status of the county board is an
expansion of its functions; without, however, considerable extension be-
yond the original jurisdiction conferred upon the county commissioners'
court. The authority of that body extended to the imposition and regula-
tion of taxes, "^ a limited but increasing management of county property,
and a growing fiscal control, stringent 77ith regard to tax collections,"
sporadic in its check on the expenditures of other county offices.^ The
court additionally had power to appoint judges of ■^lection,-'-^ select
juries ,-'■-'- and, with limitations, to provide for the construction and
maintenance of roads and bridges.-'-'^ Poor relief-^ and a tentative super-
vision of education-'-'^ also fell within its general administrative juris-
diction.

The effect of subsequ'^nt legislation, in the main, has only been to
broaden that jurisdiction. The county board has been given full po'.7er to
purchase, contract for, dispose of, and regulate all real and personal

1. Constitution of 1870, Art, X, sec

2. R,S,1874, p, 260, 273.

3. R.S.1874, p. 321,

4. R,S,1874, p. 1080; L,1951. p. 908; L.1955, p, 1115, 111'=,

5. R.S.1874, p. 1080; L.1925, p. 605; L.1929, p. 774; L.1931, p. 905,
907; L.1933, p. 1115.

6. L,1819, p. 175,

7. L.1819, p. 237, 238; L,1843, p. 128.

8. L.1819, p. 238, 318; L.1823, p^ 208; R.L.1827, p. 373, 375; R.L,1829,
p. 121; L.1843, p. 112; L.1845, p, 11,

9. R,L,1827, p. 366; L.1851, p. 175.

10. L.1819, p. 80.

11. L,1819, p, 255; L,1823, p. 182.

12. Either by calling on the able-bodied men of the county for labor, or
by raising bond issues oy subscription. L.1819, p. 333, 334, 336,
337, 343; L.1821, p, 167; L.1825, p. 130, 133,

13. L,1819, p. 127; L.1839, p. 138, 139,

14. R. L.1845, 13. 500, 501.

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property of the county, •'■ It is now required also to audit all claims
against the county and the accounts of such officers as are not pro-
vided for by law,'^ In other respects its authority has 'been defined
along similar lines, with only one new power conferred upon the county
■board."^

In Knox County, and others under township organization, the board
early was given the power to make appropriations for the construction of
roads and bridges. This power, in counties otherwise organized, does
not reside in the county board. ° Otherwise, the chajige in Knox County
from county commissioners' court to county court, and from the latter to
the board of supervisors, has not materially affected the general adminis-
trative jurisdiction of the county board.

Finances

In the sphere of finances, there has always been in the Illinois
county a close relationship between the taxation processes and the
fiduciary function. This circumstance, as well as frequent evidence
of the county board's ultimate control in such matters, appears in a
resume of the legal status and duties of the officers involved.

Taxation

The assessment function in taxation was first performed in all
counties by the county treasurer, then a statutory officer appointed
by the county board. The board, within statutory limits, fixed the
amount of the levy, while the value of many categories of real and personal
property was fixed by law; a limited discretion was left to the assessing
officer, ° In 1839 the treasurer, who two years before had become an elected
officer,^ was relieved of this duty when the system was changed through-
out the state. For several years, lists of taxable property, and assess-
ments in this limited sense, were then made by district assessors appoint-
ed by the county board, 1'-' In 1844 the earlier system was reestablished,

1. L.1851, p, 51,52.

2. 1,1851, p, 50.

3. Compare this running summary with R,S,1874, p. 306, and R.L,1957,
p. 910-12.

4. L,1851, p. 50.

5. R.L.1957, p. 916.

6. L.1819, p, 315; R.L,1827, p, 328-36.

7. L.1819, p, 315.

8. L.1819, p. 313,319; L,1825, p. 173; L.1859, p. 4-6; L.1840, p. 4;
L.1845, p. ^:.

9. R.L,1837. p. 274; L.1845, p. 28.
10. L,1839, p, 4.

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with the treasurer, however, now having the status of ex-officio county
assessor.! Since Knox County's adoption of township organization in
1853, the assessment function has been performed on the lower government-
al level, hy tovm assessors elected one in each tovmship; the treasurer,
after dropping completely out of the procedure for a time, has now the
status of ex-officio supervisor of assessments, "^ Today the principal
duties of the assessing officers, taken together, are to bring up to date
each year the periodic assessment of real property, and take current lists
of and appraise personal property and special categories of other property.

The functions which today fall within the scope of the hoard of re-
view were originally dispersed and attenuated. In the first constitutional
period, it was left to interested individuals or parties to report property
omitted from assessment; the county hoard could hear appeals from assess-
ments, 'but there was no provision for their equalization "by districts,*^
After the adoption of township organization, tovm hoards were given power
to revise the assessments within their own jurisdiction, and the county
board was required to meet annually to assess omitted property, review as-
sessments on complaint, and equalize valuations between towns. ^ In 1898
this authority of the county board was transferred to the newly-created
hoard of review, composed of the chairman of the county hoard, ex-officio
chairman, the county clerk, ex-officio clerk, and an additional member
appointed by the county judge. "^ In 1923 the county clerk was replaced by
another member appointed by the county judge ;8 the board of review now
appoints its own clerk. ^

The collection function was originally performed in all counties by
the sheriff, an elected constitutional officer, ^^ its nature has changed
little since that time. Essentially, the collecting officer collects taxes

1. L.1843, p. 231.

2. L.1851, p. 39.

3. L.1898, p. 36-44.

4. L.1853, p. 16, 17; L.1855, p. 18,24,55; L.1872, p. 11,14,15,19,23;
L.1873, p. 51; L.1879, p. 241,242; L.1881, p. 133; L.1885, p. 234;
L.1895, p. 40,41,45; L.1905, p. 36C; L.1915, p. 568; L.1923, p. 495,
500; L.1927, p. 774; L.1932. p. 84.

5. L.1819, p. 316; R.L.1827, p. 330; L.1839, p. 7; L.1845, p. 239; L.1845,
p. 8; L.1849, p. 207,208,

6. L.1871, p. 21,22.

7. L.1894, p. 54.

8. L.1923, p. 496; L.1932, p. 75.

9. L.1925, p. 496,497.
10. L.1819, p. 316.

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according to information originating outside his jurisdiction, pays over
such sums to authorities designated 'by statute to receive them, and reports
on payments of taxes and failure thereof „^ In 1839, hy a development
analogous to that which occurred with regard to assessments, the county
■board extended its control to appoint a regular county collector, £md for
the first time the officer of collection was required to "be hondedc^
Again the law soon reverted to the earlier situation, with the sheriff,
however, now acting in an ex-officio capacity that continued to recognize
the independence and separate importance of the office of collector.
This situation continued until Knox County adopted township organization
since which time town collectors have heen elected one in each township,
and the county treasurer has been ex-officio county collector.'^ The town
officers pay over their collections directly to the county officer, and
supply the "basic information for the latter 's siomraary report of collec-
tions in the county,"

The entire taxation procedure, is 'brought together ty the county
clerk or, at the earlier dates, in turn 'by the clerk of the county commis-
sioners' court and the clerk of the county court, prototypes of the county
clerk in this capacity. The assessment hooks are made out 'by the clerk,
and returned to him hy the assessor; similarly the collector returns the
collection hooks and reports on delinquent property; finally, the treasurer's
receipts to the collector for taxes paid come into his possession, and the
centralization of records concerning the basic taxation procedure is com-
pleted,'^

Fiscal Control

The fiduciary function in county finances helongs to the county
treasurer alone. Only one change of importance has affected his legal
status since those already noted in regard to his other functions: the
office is now constitutional, ^ Bond was originally required in the sum

1, L.1819, p. 316-18; L.1821, p. 182,183; R.L,1827, p. 332,333; P.. L. 1829,
p, 118,121-23; L.1831, p. 125; 1^1^837, p"; 581,582; L.1839, p, 7-12;
L.1845, p. 243; 1.1845. p. 11; L.1847, p. 81; L.2872, p. 55,57,58;
R.S.1957, p. 2638-52.

2, In a sum double the amount to he collected, and with such securities
as should he approved by the appointing body, L,1839, p, 8.

3, L.1845, p. 234,

4, L.1851, p. 37,38.

5, L.1853, p. 14; L, 1871-72, p. 664.

6, L.1872, p, 41,56,57,

7, L.1819, p. 317; R.L,1827, p. 373; R.L.1857, p, 582; L,1839, p. 8-12;
L.1840, p. 3; L,1845, p, 9,11; L.1855, p, 66,77,111; L.r8?l-72, p. 32;
L.1872, p, 35,41,56-58; L. 1873-74, p. 51; L.1911, p, 485; L.1917,

p. 654; L.1919, p, 765; L,1931, p. 747.

8, Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec, 8,

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of $2000,1 -^-^t since 1827 the penalty stim has teen set by the county
hoard, which is also judge of the sufficiency of the securities.^ The
duties of the office remain substantially the same as at its creation: to
receive, principally from the collectors of taxes, the revenue of the
county; keep custody of its funds; and disburse them only by specific au-
thorization of law, or in accordance with the orders of the county board. *^
Through this last requirement, and that of the treasurer, to report
periodically to the board on the transactions of his office, in addition
to his regular settlement with it, the lines of financial authority
once more lead to the county board. "^

Administration of Justice

Courts

Justice, in Illinois counties, has been administered by a constant-
ly increasing number of bodies. The Constitution of 1818 vested the Judi-
cial povrers of the state in a supreme court and such inferior courts as
the General Assembly should ordain, required the supreme court justices to
hold circuit courts in the several counties, and provided for the appoint-
ment, in such manner and with such powers and duties as the General Assembly
should direct, of a competent number of justices of the peace in each coun-
ty.^ Federal statutes already allowed circuit courts, in all states, juris-
diction over the naturalization of aliens;" the first state legislature
additionally conferred jurisdiction over all causes at common law and chan-
cery, and over all cases of treason, felony, and other crimes and misde-
meanors. The legislature further required that two terms of a circuit
court be held in each county annually by one of the supreme court jus-
tices,^ but in 1824 provision was made for separate circuit court judges,
to be appointed, as \7ere the supreme court justices, by both branches of
the General Assembly, and to hold office during good behavior.^ The au-
thority of justices of the peace was limited by law to jurisdiction in

1. L.1819, p. 318.

2. R.L.1827, p. 329; R.S.1874, p. 323.

3. L.1819, p. 315, 316; R.S.1845, p. 138; L.1861, p. 239; R. 5. 1874,
p. 323,324.

4. L.1819, p. 318; R.L.1837, p. 582,583; L.1845, p. 33; R.S.1845,
p. 136,138,139; L.1861, p. 239,240; R.S.1874, p. 323,324.

5. Constitution of 1818, Art. IV, sec. 1,4,8.

6. U.S.S. at Large, 1799-1813, p. 153.

7. L.1819, p. 380.

8. L.1819, p. 378,

9. L.1824, p. 41. The Constitution, which had required that supreme
court justices be appointed by the General Assembly, further provided
that they should not, after the first session of the legislature
subsequent to January 1, 1824, hold circuit courts unless required

to by law. (Art. IV, sec. 4).

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specified civil cases and in misdemeanors, with appeals allowed from their
judgments to the circuit court;-'- the power of appointmenl; the legislature
at first reserved to itself.'^ In 1827, however, justices of the peace
were required to he elected, two in each of such districts as should be
determined within statutory limits by the county commissioners' court. '^
Jurisdiction over probate matters was at the outset delegated to the
coiinty commissioners' court.-' By act of the next General Assembly, it was
transferred to the court of probate,^ consisting in each county of one
judge appointed by the General Assembly. ^ As a result of the substitution,
in 1859, of probate justices of the peace for the judges of probate,'''
jurisdiction over probate matters for the first time was placed in the
hands of elected officers,^

The county court was the creation of the second constitution, ^ which
also made circuit judges elected officers. 10 With regard to the new court,
it was further provided by law that it should be held, in each county, by
a single elected officer, the county judge. H Its authority was extended
to jurisdiction in all probate matters, and to such jurisdiction in civil
and criminal cases as might be conferred by the General Assembly. 12 j^
pursuance of this latter provision, the county court was first given the
same civil and criminal jurisdiction as justices of the peace ;13 ^i -(^j^q
same session of the General Assembly, however, it was declared that county
judges, when exercising this jurisdiction, acted only in the capacity of
justices of the peace. ■'-'^ Until the next constitutional period, the county
court, as such, was given jurisdiction only in a limited number of special
actions;-'-^ it was, however, considered entitled to equal jurisdiction with

1.

2.

L,
L,

.1819, p,
.1819, p,

, 185,19:
. 22.

3.

R,

.S.1827,

p. 255.

2,195.

Since 1821, however, the county commissioners' court
had been required to establish such districts, which also constituted
general election precincts (L.1821, p. 74). For changes in the statu-
tory limitations of this power of the court, see Il.L.1827, p. 255 and
H.L.1829, p. 93. ~~

4. L.1819, p. 19-22,223-50,301.

5. L.1821, p. 121.

6. L.1821, p. 119. The Constitution (Art. IV, s'^c. 4) had also designated
this matter of election for judges of all inferior courts.

7. R.L.1837, p. 177.

8. The Constitution (Art. IV, sec. 8) had reserved to the General Assembly
the right to prescribe the matter of a^'pointment of justices of the
peace. Cf. note 9, p. 45.

9. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 1,16.

10. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 7,15.

11. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 17.

12. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 18.

13. L.1849, p. 65.

14. L.1849, p. 17.

15. L.1849, o, 125,126; L.1855, p. 103; L.1861, p. 171,172.

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the circuit court over natural izat ion. ^ In this same period, provision was
made for increasing, on the basis of population, the number of justices of
the peace to "be elected in each district. In Knox County, and others simi-
larly organized, one additional justice of the peace is now elected for
every one thousand inhabitants exceeding two thousand inhabitants in each
town. 2

Provision was first made by the Constitution of 1870 for the establish-
ment bv the General Assembly of an independent probate court ^ in each county
having a population of more than fifty thousand irJhabitants.'^ As first
established by statute, the new courts \Tere to be established in counties of
one hundred thousand or more inhabitants.'* The population of Knox Coiinty,
not having reached this figure, jurisdiction over probate matters has con-
tinued to be vested in the county court in accordance with constitutional
provision to that effect.^ The county court, early in this period, was
given concurrent jurisdiction with the circuit court in appeals from
justices of the peace ;^ its original jurisdiction was extended to be equal
with that of the circuit court in all that class of cases cognizable by
justices of the peace''' and involving in controversy sulis not exceeding five
hundred dollars," In 1906, however, it lest its naturalization jurisdiction,
since it failed to meet the additional requirements of Federal legislation
that it possess jurisdiction at law without limitation upon amounts in con-
troversy.^ The present constitution, also, for the first time, directed
the matter in which the General Assembly should establish judicial circuits,
requiring that circuits be formed of contiguous counties and that they
should not exceed in number one circuit for every one hundred thousand of
population of the state. 10 At present there are seventeen circuits in
Illinois, and Knox County is attached to the ninth circuit, ^

1. U.S.S. at Large, 1799-1813, p. 155; see also Appendix C,

2. L.1854, p. 30. No more than five justices, however, may be elected
from any town or election precinct.

3. Constitution of 1870, Art, VI, sec, 20.

4. L.1877, p. 79.

5. Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 18.

6. L.1895, p. 116,173.

7. The jurisdiction of justices has also been progressively increased
during this period. See L,1872, p. 524; L.1895, p. 166,187; R.L,1937,
p. 1917,1918,1932.

8. L. 1871-72, p. 325.

9. U.S.S. 1906, p. 596.

10. Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 13,

11. R.S.1957, p. 1011.

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Clerks of Courts

The clerk of the circuit court, it was provided by the Constitution
of 1818, was to be appointed by that court or a majority of the justices
thereof. Since 1849, however, by provisions of the subsequent constitu-
tions, the office has been filled by election. 2 The office of clerk of
the county court, which was an independent elective office under the sec-
ond constitution, '^ is now filled in an ex-officio capacity by the county
clerk;'* the latter officer is also required by constitutional provision to
be elected.^ The county commissioners' court, which for a brief period
held jurisdiction over probate matters, had its own clerk, who was at that
time appointed by the court." Probate judges and justices of the peace who
subsequently held probate jurisdiction, v;ere required to act as their own
clerks." With the transfer of probate jurisdiction to the county court,
the clerk of the county court was required to keep, separately, records of
probate proceedings and business.^ In Knox County, where the county court
still retains probate jurisdiction, the county clerk serves it in these
matters, in his capacity as ex-officio clerk of the county court. Justices
of peace have always been rcq^iired to keep their records in person.-^'-'

Ministerial Officers

The principal ministerial officer of all courts of record in Illinois
counties is the sheriff. The first constitution provided that the sheriff
should be elected;-'--'- bond in the sum of ten thousand dollars was required
by the enabling law that established the office, ■'■2 and for Knox County the
requirement has not since been altered. ^^ Statutory provision T/as made in
1827 for the appointment of deputies by the principal officer; ^"^ since 1874,

1. Constitution of 1818, Art. IV, sec. 6.

2. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 21,29; Constitution of 1870, Art. X,
sec. 8.

3. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 19.

4. R.S.1874, p. 260.

5. Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8.

6. L.1819, p. 175.

7. L.1821, p. 120; R.L.1837, p. 429.

8. L.1849, p. 55.

9. R.S.1874, p. 250.

10. L.1819, p. 185-97 (no specific record-keeping requirement listed among
general duties of justices), 326 (establishing fees to be paid justices
for keeping records); R.L.1827, p. 260 (becomes definite provision for
justices to keep own records); L.1895, p. 221,222; R.S.1957, p. 1932.

11. Constitution of 1818, Art. Ill, sec. 11.

12. L.1819, p. 110.

13. R.S.1874, p. 989; R.S.1957. p. 3012.

14. R.L.1827, p. 373.

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the consent of the circuit court has been required. ^ The ministerial
duties of the sheriff have similarly undergone little change in more
than one hundred years. Essentially he is to attend, in person or by
deputy, all courts of record in the county, obeying the orders and
directions of the court, and to serve, execute, and return all writs,
v/arrants, process, orders, and decrees legally directed to him.

By a peculiar feature of early Illinois law, an anachronistic recogni-
tion of the once great powers of his office, 3 the coroner was originally
given equal power with the sheriff as a ministerial officer of the courts.*
Additionally he was required to serve all process in a suit in which the
sheriff was an interested party, ^ and to perform all the duties of the
sheriff when that office was vacant. 6 The last two functions are still in-
cumbent upon the coroner today. "^

Justices of the peace are similarly served in a ministerial capacity
by constables. Not until 1870 was the office of constable given constitu-
tional recognition;^ at its creation by the first G-eneral Assembly, the
county commissioners' court was empowered to appoint one or more constables
in each township; ^ in 1827 it was provided that two constables should be
elected in each justice of peace district. 10 Since that date, subsequent
legislation has grouped justices of the peace and constables in all pro-
visions regarding their election. ^^ Constables, like sheriffs and coro-
ners, have always been required to serve and execute all process legrdly
directed to them; -'-2 process issuing from a justice of peace court, how-
ever, may be directed only to some constable of the same county.-'-"'

1. R.S.1874, p. 989.

2. L.1819, p. Ill; R.S.1874, p. 990,991; R.S.1957, p. 1189,3013.

3. For legal status of coroner, see Inquests, p. 50.

4. L.1819, p. 111.

5. L.1821, p. 20-23.

6. R.L.1827, p. 372,373.

7. R.S.1874, p. 282; R.S.1937, p. 780. Despite, however, the absence
from the present law of statutory provisions for the coroner to serve
process originally directed to him (R.S.1874, p. 281,282), the courts
have held that he may so do, an emergency being presumed to exist
without need for the process to recite reason for its issuance to the
coroner (20 111. Sup. 185; 57 111. Sup. 268).

8. Constitution of 1870, Art. VII, sec. 21.

9. L.1819, p. 162.

10. R.L.1827, p. 259.

11. See Courts, p. 45.

12. L.1819, p. 162,163; R.S.1874, p. 400; R.S.1937, p. 1189.

13. L.1819, p. 186; L.1821, p. 152; R.S.1845, p. 317; L.1872, p. 525;
L.1895, p. 186,187; R.S.1937, p. 1918. Similarly, process issuing
from courts of record is required to be directed to the sheriff or,
under certain conditions noted (notes 4, 5, and 6) to the coroner
(R.S.1845, p. 413; L. 1871-2, p. 338; R.S.1874, p. 774; L.1907, p. 444;
L.1933, p. 786; R.S.1937, p. 2383).

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Prosecutions

The duty of the present state's attorney to prosecute and defend all
actions, civil or criminal, involving the county or the people or officers
of the state or county,-'- was incumhent during the first constitutional
period upon the circuit attorney, 2 Also in effect from an early date is
the office's other major duty, apart from the enforcement of law,"^ of giv-
ing opinions on any questions of law relating to criminal or other matters
in which the people of the county may he concerned.'*

The office of circuit attorney existed solely by statutory provision, ^
and was appointive, by the G-overnor until 1836,^ thereafter by the General
Assembly.''' The second constitution replaced the circuit attorney with an
elected state's attorney;^ since each judicial circuit was an elective dis-
trict for this purpose, the territorial jurisdiction of the new officer
remained the same as that of the former officer.^ Not until the present
constitution was provision made for the election of a separate state's
attorney in each county. ^^ Bond, originally set at one thousand dollars, ■'-
has been required in the sum of five thousand dollars since 1874. -'•^

Inquests

The holding of inquests, in Illinois counties one of the duties of the
coroner, is also involved in the administration of justice. The office of
coroner was created by the first constitution and required to be filled by
election;!"^ the statutory provisions concerning the inquest function have
not changed substantially since their enactment by the second General
Assembly,-'-'* The coroner, when informed of the body of any person being
found dead, supposedly by violence, casualty, or undue means, is required
to summon a jury to inquire how, in what manner, and by whom or what, death
was caused; testimony of witnesses is taken; vi^itnesses whose evidence impli-

1. R.S.1874, p. 173,174; R.S.1937, p. 178.

2. L.1819, p. 204; R.S.1845, p. 76.

3. See Enforcement of Law, p. 51.

4. R.S.1845, p. 76; R. 371874, p. 174; R.S.1937, p. 178.

5. L.1819, p. 204-6.

6. L.1819, p. 204.

7. L.1835. p. 44.

8. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 21, The new title, however, had
already come into occasional use in the interim (R.L.1827, p. 79;
L.1836, p. 44; L.1847, p. 18).

9. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 22.

10. Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 22.

11. L,1819, p. 178.

12. R.S.1874, p. 172; R.S.1937, p. 177.

13. Constitution of 1818, Art, III, sec. 11.

14. Compare: L.1821, p. 22-24; R,S.1845, p. 517,518; R.S.1874, p. 282-84;
R.S.1937, p. 780-82.

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cates any person as the ■unlawful slayer of the deceased are "bound over
to the circuit court; the verdict of the jury is returned to the clerk
of that court, -'-

The verdict of the coroner's jury, however, is not generally ad-
missible in evidence ;2 additionally, it is not held to "be prima facie
proof of matters stated therein with regard to the cause and manner of
death;^ its essential nature, therefore, is that of a finding of facts
upon the "basis of which the coroner may 'be led to discharge his col-
lateral duty to apprehend and commit to jail any person implicated by
the inquest as the unlawful slayer of the deceased. To this extent,
the coroner's inquest duties overlap his function as an officer for the
enforcement of law.

Enforcement of Law

Sheriffs, coroners, and constables have always "been charged equally
with keeping the peace and apprehending all offenders against the law,*^
The state's attorney's powers as an officer for the enforcement of law
originally derive "by implication from another duty;*^ the gathering of
evidence and the apprehension of offenders is necessarily involved in
commencing and prosecuting actions in which the people of the state or
county are concerned.''' In relatively recent years, however, the state's
attorney has be^n given more specific statutory powers to enforce laws,
and to investigate violations and secure necessary evidence thereof. °
But at any time the effective spheres of authority of law enforcement
officers have "been determined less "by statutory provisions than "by local
conditions and individual circumstances.

1. R.S.1957, p. 780,781.

2. 46 N.W. 872. It is, however, held to "be proper practice to offer,
in cross-examining witnesses sought to "be impeached, excerpts from
transcripts of testimony taken at the inquest (211 111. App. 474;
189 111. App. 556).

3. 201 111. App. 287.

4. L.1821, p. 25; R.S.1845, p. 518; R.S.1874, p. 285; R.S.1937, p. 782.

5. L.1819, p. 111,162,163; R.S.1845, p. 328,515; R.S.1874, p. 400,990;
R.S.1937, p. 1189.

6. See Prosecutions, p. 50.

7. Previously cited; see p. 50, note 2.

8. L.1885, p. 3,64,65; L.1907, p. 267; L.1909, p. 10; L.1913, p. 393,
394,438; L.1915, p. 366; L.1927, p. 33.

- 52 -
Governmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

Education

The act of Congress providing for the creation and admission to the
Union of the State of Illinois set aside section 16 of every tovmship
for the use of schools. ^ The first state legislation on the subject was
concerned only with the establishment of school districts and the sale
or leasing of school laiad to provide necessary funds, for which purposes
three trustees of school lands were appointed in each township by the
county commissioners' court. 2

In 1825, however, with a common school system in operation, provi-
sion was made for its educational as well as financial administration.
Three elected officers, known as tovmship school trustees, v/ere charged
in each tovmship with superintending schools, examining and employing
teachers, leasing all land belonging to the district, and reporting an-
nually to the county commissioners' court; this report, however, was
limited to such matters as were concerned in the financial administra-
tion of the schools. 2 In 1827 the county comjnissioners' court was
again empowered to appoint trustees of school lands, but despite the use
of the earlier, more limited title, these officers were charged with all
of the duties of the former township school trustees."^ The creation of
office of county school commissioner in 1829 brought a new element into,
the complex situation; the commissioner was at first given limited duties
with regard to the sale of school lands and the management of school
funds;^ his subsequent gains in this respect at the expense of the town-
ship trustees foreshadowed the demarcation of spheres of authority that
was made in 1847.6 In the interim, the school commissioner, who had
first been appointed by the county commissioners' court, '^ became an
elected officer;^ in such townships as elected to incorporate for the
purpose of organizing and supporting schools, township trustees also
became elected officers and were there denominated trustees of schools. ^

1. U.S.S. at Large, 1815-25, p. 428.

2. L.1819, p. 107,108.
5. L.1825, p. 121,122.

4. R.L.1827, p. 566-68.

5. R.L.1829, p. 150.

6. Compare: L.1851, p. 176; L.1841, p. 275-79.

7. R.L.1829, p. 150.

8. L.1841, p. 261,262.

9. L.1841, p. 275,274. In unincorporated townships, trustees continued
to be appointed by the county commissioners' court (L.1841, p. 259,
260).

- 53 -
Goyernmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

The situation created by the legislation of 1847 in certain respects
has not since been substantially altered. In all counties, township trus-
tees became, and are still, elected officers styled township school trus-
tees.•'■ The relative authority of the officer of the countyS and of offi-
cers of the township with regaid to fine^ncial administration was fixed
essentially as at present. 3 Moreover, township trustees lost practically
all their former duties with regard to matters purely educr.tional as a
result of a development that had occurred in 1845.

It was at that time that the county first entered into the actual ad-
ministration of education with the creation of the office of superintendent
of schools.'* Filled at first by the school com.missioner in an ex-officio
capacity, 5 it quickly absorbed most of the functions of to^mship trustees
with regard to the advancement of education;^ later, the office came to be
filled by election' and completely absorbed that of school commissioner."
In the new field of county administration of education, the superintendent's
duties remained constant through his change in legal status, requiring him
to visit all the tovmships in his county and inquire into the condition and
manner of conducting their schools, examine persons proposing to teach school,
grant certificates to persons qualified to teach in schools, and report quar-
terly to the county board on all his acts as superintendent. ° Subsequent
legislation has enluarged the scope of this phase of the superintendent's
functions, -^0 but it is in his role as an agent of state supervision th-^.t he
has been charged with numerous duties of a new character.

1. L.1847, p. 126; L.1909, p. 350; R.S.1957, p. 2860.

2. The subseq_uent substitution of an independent elected superintendent of
schools for the school commissioner who h-,d additionally been ex-officio
superintendent (see notes 5,7,8), wo,s only a change in the legal status
of the officer of the county and had no further import.

3. L.1847, p. 123,124,128,129; L.1909, p. 351-57; R.L.1937, p. 2857-59,
2861-67.

4. R.S.1845, p. 498.

5. Ibid.

6. Ibid. Compare: L.1825, p. 121,122; R.L.1837, p. 366-68; L.1851, p. 173;
L.1841, p. 270,275,276,279. The only duty of this category that was
left to township trustees in the laws of 1847 concerned the examination
of prospective teachers and the issuance of certificates where merited
(L.1847, p. 130). It wa.s omitted from the revised school lavif of 1851
(L.1851, p. 128).

7. L.1865, p. 112.

8. L.1865, p. 112,113.

9. R.S.1845, p. 498. Compare: L.1847, p. 121-23; L.1861, p. 190,191;
L.1865, p. 114,119,120,

10. L.1909, p. 344-47; L.1915, p. 635; R.L.1957, p. 2859.

- 54 -
Governmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

The authority of the state Trith regard to education, first manifested
in 1845, has, like that of the coiinty, been extended "beyond its original
bounds. Originally the county superintendent 'vas required only to communi-
cate to the state superintendent of common schools^ information concerning
the schools in his county. ^ Today, as a consequence of the state's increas-
ing interv^ention in matters of public health and safety, the county super-
intendent is required to inspect, with regard to specifications, plans for
the heating, ventilation, lighting, etc., for public school rooms and build-
ings submitted to him; to visit and notice such public school buildings
which appear to him to be unsafe, unsanitary, or other\7ise unfit for occu-
pancy; and to request the state board of health, the state fire marshal,
or the state architect to inspect such buildings and issue reports upon
which condemnation proceedings can be basedc*^

Recordation

For the function of making legal record of \7ritten instruments, the
first General Assembly established the office of recorder.^ Originally
appointed by the Governor,^ the recorder was required to be elected after
1835.^ The second constitution made the clerk of the circuit court'^ ex-
officio recorder in all counties;^ the present constitution provides for
his election in counties of 60,000 or greater population and continues the
earlier provision for all others, among which is numbered Knox County.^
Bond, originally set at $1500 in all counties,-'-'^ is now required in the
penalty sum of $20,000 in those in the higher population bracket and
$10,000 in those where the office of recorder has not a separate incumbent. ^^

The basic duty of the recorder, to record at length and in the order of
their receipt all instruments in writing, has remained essentially unchanged;
legislation has been directed toward the extension of categories of instru-

1. The secretary of state in ex-officio capacity (L.1845, p. 52).. In 1854
the office became independent, filled by election, . and known as that of
superintendent of public instruction (L.1854, p. 13), which is its
present status (L.1909, p. 342; RcS.1937, p. 2856).

2. L.1845, p. 54.

3. L.1909, p. 347,348; L.1915, p. 635,636; L.1919, p. 387.

4. L.1819, p. 18-20.

5. L.1819, p. 18,19.

6. L.1835, p. 166.

7. An elected officer; see Clerks of Courts, p. 48.

8. Constitution of 1848, Art. V. sec. 19; L.1349, p. 63-66.

9. Constitution of 1870, Art. X. sec. 8; R. 5. 1874, p. 833.

10. L.1819, p. 19.

11. R.S.1874, p. 833.

- 55 -
Governmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

ments entitled to "be recorded.-'- Conveyances of title to land, a major
category of such records, frequently involve another county officer, the
surveyor. Established 'by the second General Assembly,^ the office of
surveyor was at first filled by appointment of that body, 3 later by elec-
tion,^ In 1936, the surveyor again became an appointed officer, with the
power of appointment delegated to the co\inty board, ^ His duty to perform
all surveys he may be called on to make v/ithin his county has undergone
only minor change, but its importance has declined; the acts of any sur-
veyor, properly acknowledged and certified, have equal standing before
the lav; with those of the county surveyor; no maps or plats have any
legal effect unless recorded by the recorder„^

Public Works

Roads and Bridges

Public roads and bridges in Knox County v/ere first under the super-
intendence of the county commissioners' court, vi'hich was authorized to
locate new roads and alter or vacate existing roads. The act providing
for such superintendence empowered the commissioners to appoint free-
holders in each township to act as supervisors, each appointment to be
for a one-year period. New roads were to be opened by the county commis-
sioners' court upon petition of residents of the county and a favorable
report from the road viewers and surveyor. A few years later the county
commissioners were authorized to divide the county into road districts,
and to appoint one supervisor in each district to serve for a one-year
term." V/ith a change in the county administrative body -under the second
constitution, the county court was granted supervision over public roads. ^
Shortly thereafter, 1853, Knox County adopted township organization, and
superintendence of roads and bridges was granted to the commissioners of
highways, elected in each town for one year.^^ The commissioners divided
the town into road districts, and overseers of highways in each district
were to repair the roads and carry out orders of the commissioners. This

1. R.L.18a9. p. 117; R.L.1853, p. 511; L.1835, p. 166; R.S.1845, p. 305,
432,606; L.1851, p. 80; L.1859, p. 124; L.1869, p. 2; R.S.1874,

p. 833,834; L.1921, p. 75*^,757; R.S.1937, p. 2601,2602.

2. L.1819, p. 621

3. Ibid.

4. L.1835, p. 166.

5. L.1933, p. 1104. Provision effective in 1936.

6. R.L.1829, p. 173; R.L.1833, p. 511; L.1845, p. 201; L.1869, p. 241;
R.S.1874, p. 1050,1051; L.1901, p. 307; L.1915, p. 575; R.S.1937,
p. 3117-22.

7. L.1819, p. 333.

8. L.1825, p. 130.

9. L.1849, p. 65; L.1851, p. 179.
10. L.1849, p. 212.

- 56 -
Governmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

general organization was effective until well after the turn of the
century, 1 In 1913 the state highway department was esta'blished, and
provision was made for the appointment 'by the county 'board of a county
superintendent of highways. 2 The entire system was centralized 'by sub-
jecting the county superintendent to the rules and regulations of the
state highway commissioner and "by requiring candidates for county super-
intendent to 'be approved 'by the state commissioner 'before appointment 'by
the county board. The term of the county superintendent was set at six
years, and his salary was to "be fixed 'by the county 'board. A 'board of
highway commissioners was set up in each township to superintend matters
relating to roads and 'bridges. Although the county superintendent was
to act on 'behalf of the county in regard to roads and 'bridges, and al-
though he was su'bject to removal 'by the county 'board, he was regarded as
a deputy of the state highway engineer, subject to his directions. This
indicates the intention of t'he legislature to unify the entire state sys-
tem of roads and bridges. In 1917 the department of public works and
'buildings assumed the rights, powers, and duties vested in the state high-
way department, 3 'but the county organization has remained essentially the
same since 1913.

Public Buildings

The county is given the power to hold, own, and convey real estate
for county purposes. ^ This power is exercised 'by the county 'board, which
is charged with the cars and custody of all the real and personal estate
owned by the county. Throughout the period of statehood it has been pro-
vided that a courthouse and jail be erected in each county, and that the
sheriff of each county be charged with custody of such buildings,^ The
county is further empov/ered to erect 'buildings for a county hospital, work-
house, tuberculosis sanitarium, and other necessary county purposes.

The county superintendent of schools is charged with the inspection
of plans and specifications for public school rooms and buildings; and
the approval of only those which comply with the specifications prepared
by the state superintendent of public instruction.^ He is also to request
the state board of health, the state fire marshal, or the state architect
to inspect public school buildings v/hich appear to be unsafe, insanitary,
or unfit for occupancy. Upon receipt of an unfavorable report from these
officials the county superintendent is to condemn the building and notify
the board of directors or 'board of education, and the board of school
trustees.

1. L.1851, p. 64; L.1873. p. 166; L.1879, p. 259.

2. L.1915, p, 521.

3. L.1917, p. 24.

4. R.S.1874, p. 302.

5. L.1827, p. 246,372; R. 5. 1874, p. 989.

6. L.1909, p. 342; L.1915, p. 635.

- 57 -
G-overnmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Hecords System

Drainage

In 1850 an act of Congress provided for the granting of swamp and
overflov/ed lands to various states. ■'■ The land so granted to Illinois
was turned over to the counties in 1852, to 'be reclaimed tiy drainage and
used for county purposes.^ Such lands ?/ere to be under the care and
superintendence of the county court, which was to appoint a "Drainage
Commissioner" to conduct the sales of such lands. The county siirveyor
was to prepare plats of the swamp lands, and return such plats to the
clerk of the county court, whereupon the court fixed the valuation upon
each tract. The purchasers of these tra,cts were given a certificate 'by
the drainage commissioner, and a deed was later executed "by the county
court. The court rras to sell only enough sTramp lands to insure reclama-
tion of all such land, any balance to 'be granted to the several townships
to "be used for educational purposes. At the discretion of the county,
such "balance could also be used for- the construction of roads, bridges,
or other public works.

In 1865 the commissioners of highvrays in each to'.^'n became ex-officio
a board of drainage commissioners. "^ Where a proposed drain ran through
more than one town the commissioners of all the towns affected made up
the board of drainage commissioners,'^ In 1879 drainage construction by
special assessment was handled "oy the drainage comjnissioners, a body
corporate and politic composed of commissioners of highways.^

Provision y/as first made for the organization of drainage districts
for agricultural, sanitary, and mining ourposes in 1879. ~ Petitions were
to be filed with the county clerk, and hearings on the same were to be
had before the county court, When the court found in favor of the peti-
tioners it appointed three disinterested persons as commissioners to lay
out and construct the work. Petitions for the construction of drains to
cost less than five thousand dollars -rere to be presented to justices of
the peace, if the petitioners so elected, and the commissioners of high-
ways were to perform the duties of drainage commissioners in such cases.
In 1885 this law was amended to include drains costing less than two thou-
sand dollars, and provided for the appointment of three residents as com-
missioners . '

1. U,S.S,, V. 9, p, 519.

2. 10852, p, 178.

3. L.1865, p, 52,

4. L.1867, p, 91.

5. L.1879, p. 142,

6. L.1879, p, 120.

7. L.1885, p, 130.

- 58 "
Governmental Organization "(First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

Public Services

Public Health

The state department of public health, created in 1917,^ is charged
with general supervision of the health and lives of the people of the
state. In conformance with this legislative order it is empowered to
supervise, aid, direct, and assist local health authorities or agencies
in the administration of the health lav/s. Public health districts may
be orgejiized along subcounty lines, with a board of health in each.
The names of such districts are to be filed with the county clerk to
complete their organization. Amiually, each board of health certifies
to the county clerk the rate of a public health tax to be levied in each
district, the clerk being responsible for setting out the proper taxes
upon the warrant books and transmitting them to the collector as provided
for in regard to other taxes.

Control of the state health department over lodging houses, boarding
houses, taverns, inns, and hotels is effected through the county clerk,
the proprietors of such establishments being required to file v,'ith such
clerk an annual statement containing details as to sleeping accommodations
for guests. 2 The clerk is also required to report annually to the state
health department the names and addresses of township officials.^

Mosquito abatement districts are organized upon petition to the
county Judge of the county in which such territory lies,'* such petitions
being filed with the county clerk. If, after hearing, the county. judge
determines the organization of the district necessary, the question is
submitted to the residents of the territory at a special election. The
judges of election make returns to the county judge, and the results are
entered upon the records of the county court, A majority of the votes
favoring it, a mosquito abatement district is thereupon organized.

County officials also enter into the state's control of public svdm-
ming pools. When a representative of the state department of public
health finds conditions that warrant the closing of such a pool, the owner
of the pool and the sheriff and state's attorney of the county are noti-
fied to that effect, it being the duty of these officers to enforce such
notice. °

1. L.1917. p. 2.

2. L.1901, p. 304.

3. L.1923, p. 480.

4. L.1927, p. 694.

5. L.1931, p. 735.

- 59 -
Governmental Organization (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

Vital Statistics

The state department of public health has charge of the registration
of births, stilTbirths, and deaths throughout the state. ^ To effect pro-
per control of this matter the state is divided into vital statistics
registration districts, vrhich, in Knox County, are identical with the
townships. The township clerk acts as the local registrar in these dis-
tricts, and receives certificates of births and deaths occurring in the
district. Burial permits are issued by the registrar, and are later re-
turned to him for filing.

The local registrar is required to deposit monthly with the county
clerk a complete set of records of births, stillbirths, and deaths regis-
tered during the month, and the clerk is charged with binding and index-
ing, or recording, and safe-keeping of such records. The original certi-
ficates are sent monthly by the local registrars to the state health de-
partment, which certifies annually to the county clerk the number of births,
stillbirths, and deaths registered in the county.

The county board is to appropriate money for the payment of the local
registrars' fees. Such amounts are charges against the county, and the
county clerk is required to issue warrants on the county treasurer for the
amount of the fees payable to the registrars.

The co-unty also enters into the enforcement phase of this matter. The
state health department reports cases of violations of any provision of
this act relating to registration to the state's attorney, who is to initi-
ate and follow up court proceedings against violators.

Public Assistance

Public assistance is administered through the services of the county
department of public welfare, the county home and hospital, the blind ex-
aminer, the probation officers, the county clerk, and the county board.

The county department of public welfare is headed by a superintendent
appointed by the county board after approval by the state department of
public welfare. 2 He assists the state department in the operation of wel-
fare plans and policies within the county, and has charge of the adminis-
tration of old age assistancf' ."^ In this latter regard the county depart-
ment acts merely as the agent of the state department, investigating appli-
cants and reporting results.

The county home is an establishment for the maintenance and care of
indigents. Its management and finances are provided by the co\inty board,'*

1. L.1915, p. 660.

2. L.1937, p. 451.

3. L. 1955-56, First Sp. Sess., p. 54; 1,1957, p. 265.

4. L.1955, p. 1057.

- 60 -
Governmental Organisation (First entry, p. 77)

and Records System

Blind assistance is administered in the county with appropriations of the
county toard together with state funds. An examiner of the blind, ap-
pointed by the county board, examines all applicants referred to him by
the county clerk, ^ The county court has jurisdiction in the administra-
tion of the mothers' pension fund. A probation officer, an appointee of
the court for this purpose, investigates and visits cases of indigent
mothers who are entitled to benefit^^

Coordination of Functions ajid Records System

From the foregoing discussion of functions of the ccinty government
it is apparent that the county plays a dual role, that of a body politic-
and that of an agent of the state. In its first capacity the county,
through its officials, is capable of suing and being sued, purchasing,
holding, and selling property, making contracts, and raising revenue for
its proper operation. As a state agent it fits into a state-\7ide program
on various matters. of public concern, acting under the supervision and
control of the state and coordinating the activities of subcounty agen-
cies and officials.

Coordination of county activities is effected chiefly through the
county clerk. An illustration of this is the part this official plays in
the election procedure. He notifies the judges and clerks of elections
of their appointment, supplies them with blanks and poll books, receives
copies of registers of voters, issues notices of election, receives and
preserves returns, canvasses votes with the assistance of two justices of
the peace and retains the abstracts, transmits copies of election returns
and abstracts of votes to the secretary of state, and issues certificates
of election.

Making for uniformity in records are laws requiring county boards to
supply books and forms in many cases. But the only uniformity between
counties is accomplished by the use of standard forms in a few cases re-
quired by state agencies. Adequate statutory provision is made for re-
binding and transcribing old records. The use of loose-leaf books has
further improved records; statutory compulsion could extend the improve-
ment.

1. L.1903, p, 138; L.1915, p. 257; L.1955, p, 264.

2. L,1915, p. 127; L.1915, p. 243; L.1921, p. 164; L.1935, p. 256,

- 61 -

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(First entry, p. 77]

3. HOUSBIG, CME, AiTO ACGZSSIEILITY OF THS R3C0RDS

In its dignity, impressiveness, and details of architectural design,
the courthouse of Knox County in G-alesturg, Illinois, is rerainiscent of the
main hall of a long-estahlished university. Gothic in style, it is seventy-
five feet square, contains three full stories and a hasement, and possesses
a corner clock tov/er twice the sixty-foot height of the main structure.
What normally would be considered the attic, is termed the fourth story;
likewise in the tower, is a fourth-story room termed the clock tower room.

The third in the history of ICnox Coimty, the present courthouse ivas
erected in the years 1834 to 1886 at a total final cost of $156,261. It
is huilt of stone, steel, and concrete; corrugated iron ceilings are used
throughout, and steel snelving is used in a majority of the offices or
storage rooms. Evidences of crowding are present only in the main offices
of the county and circuit clerks and in one storsige room, the tax record
room in the hasement; in all other offices and record depositories there
is ample room for expansion. The character and quality of materials used
in construction of the htiilding rate it as "being firenroof. Space content
is three hundred thousand cubic feot.

The offices and all records of the co\inty and probate clerk, circuit
clerk and recorder, county treasurer, sheriff, state's attorney, superin-
tendent of schools, and county department of public '"elf are, are located
in the courthouse. The county surveyor does not have a separate office;
his records are filed in the circuit clerk's record room on the first
floor. The coroner's office is located on the fifth floor of the Bank of
Galesburg Building at Main and Kellog Streets. The superintendent of
highways has a separate office building on Grand Avenue, tro stories in
height, built of brick; as originally erected in 1929 it contained only
one story, but a second story was ad.ded in 1P32. All but five percent of
the records of the superintendent of highv.-ays are in his office on the
first floor. The records of the county home and hospital are in the office
of the superintendent on the first floor. This structure built of brick,
is three stories in height and has a space content of nine hundred and
seven thousand, two hundred cubic feet; the main section was erected in
1866 and 1867, with three wings subsequently being added at different
times.

1, See Proceedings of Board of Supervisors (September 11, 1889), v. G,
p. 2c''2; entry 2. For complete record of building of courthouse, see
Courthouse Record, entry 15.

- 63 -
Housing, Care, and Accessi- (First entry, p. 77)

"bility of the Records

The office of the co-onty and protate clerk on the first floor includes
two rooms, his off ice proper, and an office annex. The office proper has
an area of six hundred and forty square fast, and has natural light from
four large windovvs. Along the north and south mails, and beneath the pub-
lic service counter, are one thousand eight bondred and five feet of shelv-
ing, including the steel roller type and thirteen inch deep steel file
drawers, holding one thousand three hundred and sixty-five feet of bound
volumes and four hundred and forty feet of unbound material. Here the
county clerk keeps thirty-five percent of his records; also stored here are
ten percent of the coroner's records, and one percent of the treasurer's
records. There is no room for expansion, but the clerk has space available
in various storerooms throughout the building. In fact, the county clerk
now has his- records in eleven different offices and storage rooms. Besides
the records in his office proper, the office annex contains tv;o percent; it
has all the same desirable advantages of light, ventilation, and accommoda-
tions for users of the files as the main office, plus ample room for ex-
pansion. Other locations for the county clerk's records and the percent-
ages contained therein are: treasurer's office, first floor, two percent;
tax record room, basement, thirty-nine percent; northeast storeroom, base-
ment, five percent; southeast storeroom, basenent, four percent; county
judge's office, and office of the sheriff, on the second floor, one percent
each; clock tower room, fourth floor, seven percent; west storeroom,
fourth floor, three percent; and northwest storeroom, fourth floor, one
percent. No accommodations for users of records are available in the
northeast storeroom in the basement, and in the three storerooms on the
fourth floor.

The circuit clerk and recorder has three rooms on the first floor, his
office proper, an office annex, and a record room. The main office has an
area of four hundred and forty-eight square feet and receives light from
eight large windows. Eight hundred and fifteen feet of unbound materials
in thirteen-inch deep file boxes, and only one hiindred and sixty feet of
bound volumes on steel roller shelving, occupy all available space. This
filing equipment is beneath the public service counters, in the center of
the room, and along the north and east walls. In his main office the
circuit clerk keeps thirty percent of his records; thirty-five percent of
the coroner's records also are filed here. Excellent accommodations exist
in this office for users of records, as they also do in the office annex
and record room. The office annex has almost the sai.ie area as the office
proper, but only half the number of windows. It is used mainly for the
storage of bound volumes, there being three hundred and thirty feet on
steel roller shelves. Twenty percent of the records of the circuit clerk
and recorder are filed here. There is ample room for expansion. The
record room, which contains mostly records of the circuit clerk as ex-
officio recorder, is the largest of the three rooms, having an area of
seven hundred and twenty square feet. The steel roller shelving and file
boxes, arranged along the four walls, hold twelve hundred feet of bound
volumes and three hundred feet of unbound material. This represents
thirty percent of the total records kept by the circuit clerk and record-
er. There is no crowding, and space is available for expansion. In the
southeast storeroom in the basement, v/hich is used in com:.:on by five
county officials, the circuit clerk keeps eleven percent of his records;

- 64 -
Housing, Care, and Accessi- (First entry, p. 77)

tility of the Records

in the west storeroom on the fourth floor are eight percent, and in the
northwest storeroom, on the same floor, is the final one percent of the
records.

The county treasurer is the only other official having an office on
the first floor. His office space is comparatle in size to that used hy
the circuit clerk, hut is approximately one-third smaller th;i;.i that occu-
pied hy the county clerkc In his inner and outer offices, T/t;.'.l lighted
hy six large windows, the treasurer keeps twenty-one percent of his records
on wood shelving and in wood file drawers. There are seventy feet of hound
volumes and twelve feet of unhound materials in twunty-four inch deep file
drawers. Crowding is not evident and there is ccnriiderahle space for ex-
pansion. Users of the records will find accommodations desirahle and con-
venient. The greatest hulk of the treasurer's records is found in the
he.sement, forty-eight percent in the northeast storeroom, and tvrenty per-
cent in the southeast storeroom. An additional ten percent of the records
are stored in the clock tower room on the fourth floor, and the final one
percent is in the northwest storeroom on the same floor.

The tax record or west storeroom and the northeast storeroom in the
hasement are practically the same in size; the third storage room, the
southeast, is the largest in size, having an area of three hundred and
thirty-six square feet. The tax record room houses thirty-nine percent
of the county clerk's records which are kept on wood shelving arranged
along the four walls, and on a steel rack in the center of the room.
There are two hundred and thirty-seven feet of hound volumes, eight-six
feet of unhound materials in f ourteen-inch deep file hoxes, two feet of
newspaper files, and eight feet of miscellaneous matter. Ventilation is
poor, hut there is little dust and no soot or dampness. Artificial
lighting is good and accommodations for users of records are limited.
There is little space for expansion.

The county clerk and the treasurer share the northeast storeroom in
the basement, the clerk having five percent of his records and the treas-
urer forty-eight percent housed here. Crowding is not as evident in this
room as in the tax record room; there is space for several years' records
to come. Steel adjustable shelves and steel file hoxes are arranged along
the east, south, and west walls. Here are filed eighty feet of hound
volumes, ninety-two feet of unhound materials in nine-inch deep file hoxes,
and eighty feet of miscellaneous bundles and envelopes. Physical condi-
tions are similar to those in the tax record room, but there are no accom-
modations for users of the records. The southeast storeroom contains rec-
ords of the county clerk, the circuit clerk, sheriff, coroner and treas-
urer. Wood shelving is used to hold one hundred and seventy-three feet of
bound voliomes, and nine-inch deep file drp.wers to hold two hundred and
ninety-five feet of unboumd materials; there are six feet of niscellaneous
matter. The filing equipment is arranged along the east and south v?a,lls,
and in the center, and there is ample room for more shelving. Physical
conditions are similar to those in the other two basement storerooms, and
users of the records will find adequate accommodations.

- 65 -
Housing, Care, and Accessi- (First entry, p. 77)

tility of the Records

The sheriff's office, two hundred and fifty-two square feet in area,
and adjoining the county court room on the second floor, is not crowded
despite its relative smallness. Near the south v/all are eighteen feet of
steel shelving on which are ten feet of hound volumes; a small number of
file boxes fourteen inches in depth hold the unbound materials, mostly
correspondence. The sheriff keeps forty percent of his records here,
fifty percent in the southeast storeroom in the basement, and ten percent
in the clock tower room on the fourth floor. The county. clerk has one
percent of his records in the sheriff's office. Research workers and
record consultants will find accommodations satisfactory.

In the county judge's office on the second floor, the county clerk
keeps the records of the probation officer serving the county court; these
represent one percent of his records. Also on the second floor is the of-
fice of the state's attorney, with an area of Uio hundred and forty square
feet. Three large windows provide light and ventilation. All of the rec-
ords of the state's attorney are kept here in three bound volumes. Accom-
modations in this office for users of the records are sufficient.

On the third floor, the office of the superintendent of schools in-
cludes three rooms, a main office, a private office, and a center or work,
room. The main office, eighteen feet by twenty-four feet in size, has
three doors and three windows all the same size, seven feet by three feet.
Along the north wall, on wood shelving and in wood file drawers, are
eighty-five percent of the superintendent's records, consisting of nine
feet of bound volumes and three feet of unbound materials. No additional
space is required, and conveniences for users of the records are adequate.
The private office has an area of two hundred and ninety-four square feet,
and is lighted by four large windowsc Three feet of bound volumes and six
feet of unbound materials in thirteen-inch deep file boxes, represent two
percent of the records of the superintendent. The unused space on the
metal shelves and in the file boxes will provide for storage of records
for some time to come. Two desks and six chairs amply serve the require-
ments of those studying the records. The center room is small, nine feet
by fourteen feet, but houses twelve percent of the records, consisting of
twenty-one feet of bound volumes kept on wood shelving. While there is
ample room for expansion, no accommodations .are available to users of the
records. The final one percent of the records of the superintendent is
in the clock tower room on the fourth floor.

Also located on the third floor is the old age assistance office,
ten feet by twelve feet in size; here are kept all records of the county
department of public welfare. Steel file boxes thirteen inches in depth,
are arranged along the east wall and contain three feet of unbound mater-
ials. There is room for expansion whenever the need should arise. One
desk and four chairs accommodate those wishing to consult the records.

Like the basement, the fourth floor also has three storage rooms for
records: the clock tower room, the west storeroom, and the northwest
storeroom. Other storage space is available but is not heing used. In
the clock tov/er room, which is eighteen feet square, and lighted by twelve
large windows, are kept seven percent of the county clerk's files, fifteen

- 66 -
Housing, Care, and Accessi- (First entry, p. 77]

'bility of the Records

percent of the coroner's files, ten percent of the sheriff's files, one
percent cf the files of the superintendent of schools, and ten percent of
the treasurer's files. All of this unbound material is stored in nine-
inch deep wood counter shelves, arranged along the north and east walls,
in pigeon hole files along the west wall, and in a cabinet file against
the south wall. There is no crowding; space is available for the storage
of more records or the addition of new file boxes. This is the only
storeroom in which dust has 'been allowed to accumulate. There are no ac-
commodations for users of records.

The west storeroom, the largest, is forty-tv/o feet square, and on one
hundred and forty-four feet of wood shelving are sixty-five feet of "bound
volumes. Also there are five feet of unbound material in file boxes four-
teen inches deep. Three percent of the county clerk's records, and eight
percent of the circuit clerk and recorder's records are stored here. With
the addition of new shelving and file boxes, for which there is ample
space, this record depository could 'be used to relieve other storage rooms
that are now crowded almost to capacity. Lighting is only fair as the
windows are small and the sky light helps 'but little. There are no accom-
modations for consultants of records. The northv;est storeroom is practi-
cally the same size as the clock tower room, hut has no windows or artifi-
cial lighting. Along the east wall are one hundred and fifty-six feet of
wood shelving on which are twenty-five feet of hound volumes. One percent
each of the county clerk's, circuit clerk's, and treasurer's records are
housed here. Considerable space is available for the storage of additional
records or the installation of new equipment. Ventilation is poor, but
there is little dust or soot. No facilities exist for the convenience of
users of these records.

Dr. George S. Bower, the county coroner, has his office containing
ten percent of the coroner's records in rooms 529-531, fifth floor. Bank
of Galesburg Building, Main and Kellog Streets. This building, constructed
of steel and brick, was erected in 1892; it is judged to be eighty per-
cent fireproof. Those records kept in the coroner's office are current.
In the courthouse, on the first floor, in the circuit clerk's office are
thirty-fiv^ percent of the coroner's records; ten percent are found in
the county clerk's office, while thirty percent are housed in the south-
east storeroom in the basement; and the final fifteen percent of the
coroner' s records are stored in the clock tower room on the fourth floor.

In the superintendent of highways office building on Grand Avenue,
Galesburg, the superintendent keeps all of his records. This brick build-
ing, two stories in height, is thirty feet wide by twenty f^et deep. The
building is estimated to be fifty percent fireproof. The office of the
superintendent is located on the first floor and is nine feet by twelve
feet in size. Three large windows provide good natural lighting, while
artificial lighting has been so arranged as to facilitate work on records.
Twelve feet of bound volumes are kept on an office desk and on the floor.
There is no shelving; it is recommended that shelves be constructed for
the proper care of the records. Room is available for such construction,
and for additional records. In this office are ninety percent of the rec-
ords of the superintendent of highways. On the second floor is the draft-
ing room, ten feet by twenty-two feet in size. Four windows, seven feet

« 67 -
Housing, Care, and Acccssi- (First entry, p. 77)

bility of the Records

by three feet, illuminate this room, and electric lights are suspended over
the two draftsmen's tables. In a closet in the northwest corner, on three
feet of T7ood shelving, are stored rolls of construction plans, representing
ten percent of the superintendent's records. Crowding is not a factor here.
Accommodations on both floors for record users are all that may be
desired.

The county home and hospital is located one mile north of Knox^^illc,
which is five miles east of Galesburg, The land was purchased in 1855 v-hen
a committee v/as appointed with authority to purchase the west one-half of
the southviest one-quarter of section twenty-one, tovmship eleven north rnd
range two east for the sum of $3,000 for a coimty homo,-'- The coiinty home
building includes a main section and three wings; it is three stories or
thirty-six feet in height, two hundred and eighty foot in width, and ninety
feet in depth. The main, section was completed by 1867, and the east or
first wing was built in 1876, a second wing constructed in 1890, and the
third v/ing added in 1898,2 Brick and limestone were used in building the
home, but the structure is not fireproof. Records, however, are kept in
a fireproof safe in the superintendent's office on the first floor. They
consist of three feet of bound volumes, and one foot of unbound materials
in f ourteen-inch deep file boxes. Room for additional records is available.
Those wishing to study the records will find conveniences satisfactory,

.In summarizing, it may be stated that careful provisions have been car-
ried out to house and maintain records with a view to their best preserva-
tion. Improvements that might be made in the storerooms on the fourth
floor, and the addition of new shelving and file boxes would promote
consolidation of the records of one office in one storage room. As was
stated earlier, the county clerk has his records in eleven different
locations, and greater efficiency and convenience would result were all
his records grouped in a fewer number of depositories. No records have
been lost because of fires or floods. The gaps that do appear are minor
and may be attributed to the moving of the coiinty scat from Knoxville to
Galesburg in 1873, or to moving into the new courthouse in 1887. Certain
papers, such as cancelled county orders and Jury certificates have not
been preserved throughout the years,

A certain imiformity in record books was inaugurated by the circuit
clerk about 1903, when loose-leaf binders were ordered. The other county
officials, however, still use the bound volumes for recordation. Binding
and rebinding of record volujnes is under direction of the board of super-
visors, and Survey workers found few volumes which could be considered to
be in poor shape. As to the indexing and filing of records in Knox County,
the systems employed correspond in the main -rith those generally adopted by
other counties in the state.

1. Proceedings of Board of Supervisors (September 12, 1855), v. A, p,
92. (See entry 2, this inventory). For record of deed, see Deed.
Record (March 5, 1856), v. 32, p. 92; (entry 114, this inventory).

2. Proceedings of Board of Supervisors (September 11, 1867), v. P, p,
345; (August 21, 1876), v. cV~p. 589, 590; (April 17, 1890, v, G,

p. 285; (July 11, 1898), v. I, p. 507. (See entry 2, this irventory) .

- 68 -

(First entry, p. 77)

4. LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS, STivIBOLS, AND EXPLANATORY NOTES

alph. alphabet ica.l(ly) '

app. appendix

arr „ arranged ( arrangement )

Art. Article

as sr as se s sor

atty, attorney

aud. auditor

td. board

tdl. bundle (s)

"bldg. building

bsmt. basement

cf , confer (compare)

ch. chapter(s)

chron chr ono logical ( ly)

c ir c ir cui t

elk. clerk

CO. county

coll. collector

cont, continued

cor. coroner

ct. court

dept. department

f .b. file box(es)

f .d. file drawer (s)

f 1 , ..„ f lo 0 r

fm. ..„ form

ft. ...; :. feet

hdgs. headings

hdw. handwritten

hwys. ..„ highways

ibid. ibidem - the same (reference)

i.e. id est - that is

111. App. _ „ Illinois Appellate Court (Reports)

1 11 . S . A I llinois Statutes Anno t a t e d

111. Sup. Illinois Supreme Court (Reports)

in. inch (as)

L. Laws

m i m il e ( s )

no . ( s ) numb er ( s )

N.W. Northwestern Reporter

off. - 0 f f i c e

p . ...„ „ page ( s )

pr. printed

pro probate

r e c recorder

R.L. Revised Laws

rm. room

R . S Revi sed Statute s

s ch school(s)

- 69 -
List of Abbreviations, Symbols, (First entry, p. 77)

and Explanatory Notes

sec. s e ction(s)

s ep - s epar at 8

Sess. ...". Session

sh. sheriff

Sp. Special

s trm . _ s to r ere om

supt. superintendent

siirv. surveyor

t r e a s _ t r ea sur er

twp. (s) - „ tovmship(s)

U.S.R.S ■. United States Hevised Statutes

U.S.S United States Statutes

V, -,- volume (s)

vet, veterinarian

vlt. vault

— current

1. Despite inaccuracies in spelling and punctuation, titles of
records are shovm in the inventory proper exactly as on volumes and
file boxes. The current or most recent title is used as the title of
the entry.

2. Explanatory additions to inadequate titles and corrections of
erroneous titles are enclosed in parentheses and have initial capitals.

3. In the absence of titles, supplied titles are capitalized and
enclosed in parentheses.

4. In the title set-up, letters or numbers in parentheses indi-
cate the exact labeling on volumes or file boxes. If the volumes or
file boxes are unlabeled, no labeling is indicated.

5. Title line cross references are used to complete series for
records kept separately for a period of time, and in other records for
different periods of time. They are also used in all artificial entries

- records vi^hich must be shovm separately under their own proper office
or section heading even though they are kept in files or records appear-
ing elsewhere in the inventory. In both instances, the description of
the master entry shows the title and entry number of the record from
which the cross reference is made. Dates shown in the description of
the master entry are only for the part or parts of the record contained
therein, and are shown only v/hen they vary from those of the master
entry.

6. Separate third paragraph cross references from entry to entry,
and "see also" references under subject headings, are used to shov/
prior, subsequent, or related records which are not part of the same
series.

7. Unless the index is self-contained, an entry for the index im-
mediately follows its record entry. Cross references arc given for
exceptions to this rule.

8. Records may be assumed to be in good condition unless other-
wise indicated.

9. On maps and plat records, the names of author, engraver, and
publisher, and information on scale have been omitted only ',7hen these
data v/ere not ascertainable.

10. Unless otherwise specified, all records are located in the
county courthouse.

- 70 -

(First entry, p. 77)

COUNTY BOARD

In Illinois counties, the coiinty board is that hody v/hich exercises
the corporate or politic pov/er of the coiinty. In Knox County, since its
organization in 1830,1 three "bodies have successively acted as a county
boards the county commissioners' court, the county court, and the hoard
of supervisors.

The Constitution of 1818 provided that there should he elected in
each county, for the purpose of transacting all county business, three
commissioners whose term of service, po\7ers, and duties should be regu-
lated and defined by law. 2 The first general assembly denominated the
commissioners a court of record, styled the county commissioners' court. 3
Four annual sessions were required to be held for six days each, unless
the business should be completed sooner; additionally, any one of the
commissioners had power, upon giving five days' notice to the remaining
commissioners and the clerk of the court, to call a special session,
Virhich had the same authority as a regular session. 4 The first commis-
sioners were elected for an irregular term; 5 subsequently, it v/as pro-
vided that they should be elected at each biennial, general election; 6
and in 1837, the term was lengthened to three years and staggered, vdth
one new commissioner elected annually.'^ Thereafter, the commissioner
who was longest in office was to be recognized as the presiding officer
of the court. 8 Compensation T;as originally set at the sTxm of tvro and

1. Knox County was created in 1825 but, by the further terras of the en-
abling act, was not to organize until it contained three hundred and
fifty inhabitants (L.18S5, p. 94,95). Until then, it was to remain
a part of Fulton County, from v/hich it had been taken (L.1825,

p. 168) . In 1830, its population had reached sufficient proportions
for a petition to be presented to the circuit judge, v;ho then de-
clared the county organized and required elections to be held.

2. Constitution of 1818, Schedule, sec. 4.

3. L.1819, p. 175.

4. L.1819, p. 175, 176.

5. L.1819, p. 100. The commissioners were to continue in office from
the election held on the following fourth Monday in April (1819) un-
til the first Wednesday in August, 1820, and tintil their successors
were elected and qualified. Not until 1821 v^ras provision made for
the election of such successors (see note 6). In Knox County, the
first com^iissioners held office for only one month, from July, 1830,
to August of that year, the next occurrence of a regular biennial
election.

6. L.1821, p. 80.

7. R.L.1837, p. 103,104. In 1838, to initiate the new procedure, three
commissioners v/ere elected; by lot, they held office respectively for
one, two, and three years.

8. E.L.1837, p. 104.

. TSoov^ ~ ^^ (First entry, p. 77)

County Board

one half dollars for each day's attendance in holding court, later was
reduced to one and one half dollars. 2 in 1821, provision was made for the
removal of commissioners for mal-faasance or non-feasance of duties, with
proceedings as in criminal cases f"^ when the first criminal code was enacted
in 1827, the penalty was modified to a fine of not more than $200, v/ith re-
moval from office only upon recommendation of the jury. Vacancies result-
ing from any cause were filled hy special election upon order of the clerk
of the court to the district judges of electiono

The county commissioners' court was Gucceeded in 1849 hy the county
courto The latter body had "been created "by the Constitution of 1848; as
a court of law it was constituted "by a single officer, the county judge,
elected for a term of four years ;'^ as an administrative "body, it was to he
augmented hy such justices of the peace as should he required hy law. In
the enabling act passed hy the next general assenhly, it was further pro-
vided that two extra justices of the peace, with county-wide jurisdiction,
should he elected for terms of four years and sit with the covuity judge as
nemhers of the court for the transaction of county business alone. For
this purpose the court was required to hold four sessions annually and,
when so sitting^ had all power, jurisdiction- and authority formerly con-
ferred upon the county commissioners' court. Compensation of the county
judge was first set at the sum of two and one half dollars for every day
of holding courts ■'-I later was increased to three dollars subsequent to
Knox County's adoption of an optional form of county government.

The second constitution had also required the general assembly to pro-
vide, by general law, for a to'.vnship organization, under which any county
night organize whenever a majority of the voters of such county should so
determine.-'-'^ By the laws of the subsequent enabling acts, a board of

1, LJ-819_, po 176,

2. RrLll827, p, 55„

S. 1,1821, p„ 20-22. Conviction further carried disqualification from
holding office for one year,

4. RcL.1827, p, 145.

5, RcLcl857, p, 104„ No election was required to be held hov/everj if the
term of the commissioner vacating office would have expired within six
months from the date of vacancy.

6, Constitution of 1848, Arte V, sec. 1, 16.

7. Constitution of 1848, Art.

8. Constitution of 1848, Art,

9, L.1849, p, 65,66.

10, L,1649, p, 65.

11, LTiS-ig, p. 62,63.

12, La855, p, 18.

13, Constitution of 1848, Art. VII, sec, 6,

14, L.1849, p„ 190-229; La851, p, 35-78. The later law repealed, and was a
complete substitute for, the earlier; but so far as their effect on the
sphere of county government is concerned, there was almost no difference
between the two.

V,

seco 1,

V,

sec, 17

V,

sec. 19

- 72 -
Co-unty Board (First entry, p. 77)

supervisors, whose, memters were to be elected one in each of the various
townships annually,! was created to transact all county "business in coun-
ties so electing. 2 Knox County, after the proposition had failed to carry
a majority in 1849, elected the optional plan in 1853, and in that year
the board of supervisors assumed the administrative Jurisdiction formerly
exercised by the county court. Originally the board held but one session
a year; 3 later, provision was made for special meetings upon the approval
of two thirds of the members;4 since 1899, two regular sessions have been
held annually, and special meetings at the request of only one third of
the members. 5 In 1925 the term of office of supervisors was lengthened
to two years, 6 and again in 1931 to four years. "^ Their compensation dur-
ing this period has increased only from two dollars a dayS to five dollars
a day and five cents per mile of necessary travel.^ The original law
establishing township organization provided merely a fine, in the sum of
$250, for refusal to perform, or neglect of, duties; 10 subsequent legis-
lation reduced the fine to $50 and added the more frequent penalty for
mis-feasance, disqualification from off ice. H The revision of the law
in 1874 brought one of the most significant changes in the development
of township organization of county government: the recognition of popula-
tion as a factor in local representation on the board of supervisors. At
that time each town or city, besides its regular supervisor, became en-
titled to one assistant supervisor if it had four thousand or more inhabi-
tants, tv^/o if sixty-five hundred, and one more for every additional twenty-
five hundred. 12 The assistant supervisors, whose terms run concurrently
with those of the regular supervisors, 13 have no pov/er or duties as town
officers, but are members of the county board and enjoy the same pov/ers
and rights as other members.!'^ The population requirements in this re-
spect have since changed, but have not affected Knox County. 15 At present
its board of supervisors has twenty-seven members.

1.

L.

,1851,

2.

L,

,1851,

3.

L.

,1851,

4.

L,

,1861,

5.

L.

,1899,

6.

L.

,1925,

7.

L,

,1931,

8.

L.

,1861,

9.

L,

,1937,

P-

38.

P-

50.

p.

45.

p.

236.

P-

363.

P-

605.

p.

905.

p.

238.

P-

601.

In actuality, the present per diem, as v^'ell as the
mileage rate, was established in 1919 (L.1919, p. 569); the per diem was
lowered to four dollars in 1933 (L.1933, p. 615), and then raised as
already noted.

10.

L.1849, p,

. 203,204.

11.

R.S.1874,

c. 1080.

12.

R.S.1874,

p. 1075.

13.

L.1933, p.

. 1115.

14.

R.S.1874,

p. 1080; L.1925

L.1933, p,

. 1115.

605; L.1929, p. 774; L.19Z1, p. 905,907;

15. In 1931 a different set of population requirements was applied in coun-
ties of 100,000 or more inhabitants (L.1931, p. 908). Two years later
the differentiating figure was reduced to 90,000 (L.1953, p. 1116).
Knox County, v/ith its population of 51,336 according to the 1930 U.S.
Census, was not affected at either time.

- 73 -
County Board (First entry, p. 77)

In contrast to its legal status, the functions of the Illinois county
board have undergone little change since the "beginning of statehood. Ex-
cept for one important pcwer conferred on counties which, like Knox, have
adopted township government, the development has merely "been one of accre-
tion and increasing complexity of duties within a v/ell-def ined and nearly
static sphere of authority and Jurisdiction.

The law establishing the court of county commissioners conferred upon
it jurisdiction in all matters concerning county revenue.l of this basic
provision, nearly all other statutory pov/ers of the court can be considered
extensions; some, enunciated in the same law, already shov/ such a legisla-
tive vievrpoint. The court was ftixther given pov/er to regulate and impose
the county tax, and to grant such licenses as might also bring in a revenue;
additionally, it was given authority over all public roads, canals, turn-
pike roads, and toll bridges. 2 Other legislation by the first general
assembly gave the court power to buy and sell lots whereon to erect county
buildings, and to contract for the construction of such; 3 later, in the
case of the courthouse at least, the court was declared to have care and
custody of the property and the right to make certain dispositions of it. 4
Care of the indigent was also made a function of the court: it v/as re-
quired to make appropriations, to be levied and collected in the same man-
ner as other county rates, for their support; as an extension of this fiscal
function, it was required to appoint an overseer of the poor in every town-
ship and establish a county poorhouse if necessary. 5 Fiscal control over
school lands was exercised at first solely through the court's power of ap-
pointment of the trustees of school lands; 6 after the creation of the office
of county school commissioner,'^ firmer control v/as effected through the med-
ium of reports which the commissioner was required to submit to the court ;o
again, the court's jurisdiction was later extended, reaching into matters of
school administration V7hen it was provided that the commissioner should sub-
mit quarterly reports of his visits to schools.^ By the terms of another
early provision, a significant preciorsor of many similar ones to be found
in more recent years, the court also had authority to exajnine the full
accounts of the commissioner. 10 other aspects of government which, if
farther removed from the fiscal core, come early into this jurisdictional
sphere, are elctions and juries. With regard to the former, the court

1.

L.1819, p. 175.

2.

Ibid.

3.

L.1819, p. 237,238.

4.

L.1843, p. 128.

5.

L.1819, p. 127; L.1839, p. 138,139

6.

R.L.1827, p. 366.

7.

R.L.1829, p. 150.

8.

L.1831, p. 175.

9.

R.L.1845, p. 500,501.

10.

L.1831, p. 175.

- 74 -
County Board (First entry, p. 77)

was authorized to establish election precincts, ■'■ appoint Judges of elec-
tion, and allow compensation to election officials for services and
stationery. 3 its duty with regard to juries v;as relatively simple: it
was required to select two panels each of petit and grand Jurors; the
former were required to be enrolled on the list of taxable inliabite.nts,
the latter only to be freeholders, or householders. The court's early
and brief Jurisdiction over probate matters is not part of its history
as a coiinty board. °

The substitution of the county court for the county commissioners'
court produced no immediate changes in the sphere of government: neither
the second constitution nor the enabling legislation made any original
pronouncements with regard to the powers or duties of the former. Such
legislation as has been enacted on this subject since 1853 does not af-
fect Knox County; in that year, it adopted township government.

The provisions of the revised law on township organization were
then in effect.^ This law, in the main, only made more inclusive a.nd
definite the powers of the board of supervisors. With only the require-
ment that it be for the use of the inhabitants, the board was given car-
pacity to purchase and hold any land within the county, for whatever
purpose; it was also given authority to make such contracts, and to pur-
chase and hold such personal property as might be necessary to the ex-
ercise of its powers; moreover it could make such orders for the dis-
position, regulation, or use of the corporate property as might seem to
the interest of the inhabitants.^ Explicit, also, was the authority to
audit all claims against the county, and the accounts of such officers
as were not otherwise provided for by la.w.-'-^ Along such lines has sub-
sequent legislation developed, but a more original fe.ature of this law
was the conferring on the board of the power to appropriate funds to aid
in the construction and maintenance of roads and bridges. •^-'- While the
county commissioners' court had had Jurisdiction over public roads, ■'-2 it

1. L.1821, p. 74. There was, in this law and many of those following, a
limit to the number of precincts which could be established. See
L.1825, p. 168; R.L.1827, p. 255; R.L.1829, p. 54; L.1835, p. 141.
Prior to 1821, each township was declared by statute to constitute an
election district (L.1819, p. 90).

2. L.1819, p. 90.

3. L.1819, p. 99.

4. L.1819, p. 255; L.1823, p. 182.

5. L.1819, p. 19-22,223-30,301; L.1821, p. 121.

6. See Probate Court essay.

7. As already stated (note 10, p. 71), it was merely provided that the
county court should have the pov/er, Jurisdiction, and authority of
the former county commissioners.

8. The Act of Feb. 17, 1851, previously cited. L.1851, p. 35-78.

9. L.1851, p. 51,52.

10. L.1851, p. 50.

11. Ibid.

12. Previously cited. L.1819, p. 333.

- 75 -
County Board (First entry, p. 77)

had no author! t,7 to malce .appropriations for them. It is this power,
principally, which today differentiates the feosj-d of supervisors fron
the county board in counties not organized under the township plan.

From the enabling legidation of the present constitution is drawn
the folloTfing brief statement of the principal functions of the county
board:

1. The purchase, sale, njid custody of the real and personal
proportj'- of the county.

2. Examining and settling accounts against the county.

3. Issuing orders on the county treasury in pursuance of its
fiscal administration.

4. Examining accounts concerning the receipts and expendi-
tures of county officers.

5. Supervision of elections, schools, and the selection of
juries; construction and maintenance of roads and bridges;
care of the indigent, infirm, and disabled.

6. Appropriating fxinds necessary to the effecting of its
functions, raising such sums through taxation, and in
general the management of county funds and county business.^

At all times the county board has had a clerk who has served it in a
ministerial capacity. The legal status of that officer, however, has
varied considerably.

The law creating the county commissioners' court provided that it
should have a clerk, and gave it the power to appoint him."^ In 1837, the
clerk became an elective officer, with a term of four years;'* this was re-
duced to two years not long after. ^ Bond was set by the original law in
the sum of $1000.^ The clerk had power to appoint deputies, for whose
conduct he was responsible.' The principal officer, however, could be re-
moved by the county commissioners' court, ° which also fixed his compensa-
tion for attending court and could a.llow him additionally, as an ex-officio
fee, a sum not exceeding twenty dollars.^

1. The road district supervisors appointed by the court were authorized
to call on the male inho-bitaxits between the ages of 18 and 50 for the
necessary labor. L.1619, p. 334.

2. R.S.1874, p. 306.

3. L.1819, p. 175. Term of office was not specified; presumably it was
to be concurrent with that of the commissioner, which itself wr.s not
set uiitil 1821, when it was fixed at two years (sec footnote 5, p. 70).

4. L.1837, p. 49.

5. L.1845, p. 28. The reduction in term, however, T7as not to take effect
u:atil 1847.

6. L.1819, p. 176,177.

7. L.1831, p. 49.

8. R.S.1845, p. 131.

9. R.L.1829, p. 141.

- 76 -
County Board (First entry, p. 77)

With the succession of the county commissioners' court hy the county
court, the office of clerk of the former hody ceased to exist. A new
office was created ty statute, that of clerk of the county court, v/ith term
set at four years and "bond in the s\m of $3000.1 y/hen the court snt for the
transaction of county business, its clerk was in effect a clerk of a county
hoard; legal recognition of this distinction was given in the provision that
the clerk should keep, in a separate set of hooks, the proceedings of the
court v/hen acting on county business, and in like manner segregate business
papers from judicial. 2 The adoption of township government by Knox County
did not alter the material situation: the clerk of the county court was re-
quired to act as the ministerial officer of the board of supervisors. 3

In 1874, however, a ne\^ legal situation was created by the abolish-
ment of a separate office of clerk of the county court and the establish-
ment of the office of county clerk. The latter office had been created
by constitutional proviso, which also made it elective, with a term of
fovjr years. '^ By sji act of the following general assembly, it was provided
that the county clerk should also be ex-officio clerk of the co-unty court,
taken in its judicial capacity alone, and act as clerk for the county board,
in that capacity succeeding the former officer of the court. 5 Bond v/as re-
quired in a sum set by the county board, and covered the actions of the
clerk in each of his several capacities. ^

The major record kept by the clerk for the board of supervisors is the
minutes of its proceedings. This heterogeneous record includes: orders to
issue warrants on the county treasury; the board's consideration of the ac-
tion on reports of committees of its members on roads and bridges, indigent
and infirm relief, schools, taxation, etc.; and its orders in regard to
juries, licenses, and other matters within its jurisdiction.'''

The clerk also keeps, separately, a register of orders issued on the
county treasury and lists of jury venire; files and preserves all bills of
accoimts' acted on by the board; and takes custody of reports required to be
made to the board by the county treasurer, various school bodies, and a num-
ber of coiinty officers.^ An obligation to preserve a multiplicity of other
records is clearly set forth in the general provision requiring the clerk to
have the care and custody of all papers appertaining to, as well as filed in,
his office,^

1. L.1849, p. 62,63.

2. L.1849, p. 66.

3. L.1851, p. 78.

4. Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8.

5. R.S.1874, p. 260,273.

6. R.S.1874, p. 321.

7. L.1819, p. 5,6,28,77,127,334,335,352; L.1823. p. 145,148; L.1826, p. 130,
131; R.L.1839, p. 126,132-37,151-53; L.1831, p. 89,90; L.1835, p. 131,
132,136,200; L.1839, p. 71,72; R.S.1845, p. 51-55,287,342,403,437;
L.1849, p. 66; L.1861, p. 234-37; R.S.1874, p. 323.

8. L.1819, p. 201,315; L.1825, p. 147; R.L.1837, p. 366; L.1845, p. 169;
R.S.1845, p. 136,366; L.1861, p. 237; R.S.1874, p. 325.

9. R.S.1874, p. 322.

- 77 -
County Board - Proceedings; (1-4)

Disposition of Accoiints

Proceedings of Board

1. PROCEEDINGS OF BOARD OF SUPERVISORS (Papers), 1830—. 3 "bdl.,
(2 bdl., 1830-54; l"bdl., 1839-53); 205f."b. (1855—). Mis-
sing: 1901. Title varies: County Commissioners Papers; Mis-
cellaneous Papers.

Original papers on county business submitted to county commissioners' court
and "boojrd of supervisors, including assignment of county orders, officials'
bonds, election records, bills allowed, reports of committees, Jury lists,
and miscellaneous papers. Also contains County Orders, Paid and Cancelled,
1830-49, entry 9; Road Papers, 1853—, entry 19; Road Tax List, 1830-70,
1881—, entry 38; County Clerk's Reports and Orders, 1830-96, 1901--, entry
102; Taxpayers' Complaints Board of Review, 1830-1910, 1918-21, 1930, entry

277. Arr. chron. No index. Nature of recording varies. Bdl. 9 x 4 x 12;
f.b. 10 X 4 X 10. 3 bdl., 174 f.b., 1830-1908, clock tower rm., 4th fl.;
31 f.b., 1909 — , tax record rm. , bsmt.

2. PROCEEDINGS OF BOARD OF SUPERVISORS, SUPERVISORS' REPORTS AND
RECORD, 1830—. 32 v. (1-5, A-Z, lA) . Missing: 1901. Title
varies: County Commissioners' Court Record.

Record of proceedings of county commissioners' court, county court as the
board, and board of supervisors, shov.'ing date, roll call, minutes, business
transacted, resolutions a,dopted, reports to board, action taken, and ad-
journment; includes records of officials' bonds, franchises, and motor fuel
tax claims. Also contains Fund Books, 1830-98, entry 4; List of County
Orders Paid, 1830-50, entry 5; Expense Accounts, 1830-57, 1865 — , entry 7;
School District Plots and Authority for Same, 1830-53, 1856—, entry 21;
Sheriff's Register (Jury Venire) , 1830-88, 1931—, entry 24; Classification,
School and Road Tax, 1830-86, 1918—, entry 37; Register of Officers, 1830-
56, entry 71; Record of Ballots, 1830-91, entry 87; List of Grand and Petit
Jurors, 1830-54, entry 246; Complaint Record Board of Review, 1830-72, entry

278. Arr. chron. No index. 1830-1916, hdw. ; 1917—, typed. 350 - 650 p.
14 x 10 X 2 - 6 X 8 X 1. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

3. RECORD OF FRANCHISES, 1901. 1 v. No prior or subsequent records
kept.

Franchise record shov/ing date, type and terms of franchise, npjne of company,
kind of service to be rendered, and volume and page of notation in Proceed-
ings of Board of Supervisors, entry 2. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name
of franchise. Hdw." on pr. fm. 320 p. 18 x 12 x 2. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Disposition of Accounts
Appropriation of Funds

4. FUND BOOKS, 1899—. 52 v. 1830-98 in Proceedings of Board of
Supervisors, Supervisors' Reports and Record, entry 2.

Record of amounts appropriated by board of supervisors for various county
funds, showing nrjne of fund, date, amounts appropriated and expended, and
balance on hand. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of fund. Hdv;. under
pr. hdgs. 150 p. 12 x 8 x i. 3 v., 1899-1905, 18 v., 1918 — , co. clk.'s
off. annex, 1st fl.; 11 v., 1906-17, tax record rm., bsmt.

- 78 -
County Board - (5-9)

Disposition of Acco-unts

Registers of County Orders (See also entries 299, 300)

5. LIST OF COUNTY ORDERS PAID, 1851—. 25 v. (8 not lettered, A-D,
A-M) . 1830-50 in Proceedings of Board of Supervisors, Super-
visors' Reports and Record, entry 2.

Register of all county orders issued, showing order number, date, to whom
issued, amount, and purpose of payment. Arr. by order no. No index. 1851-
54, hdw.; 1855 — , hdw. under pr. hdgs. 150 - 600 p. 10 x 9 x 1 - 16 x 12 x
2^, 1 V. not lettered, 1851, west strm. , 4th fl.; 7 v. not lettered, 1852-
69, northeast strm., 4th fl.; v. A-D, A-M, 1870--, co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

6. M.P.T. AND CO. HY. V/ARRANT REGISTER (Motor Fuel Tax and County
Highway Warrant Register and Allotment Record), 1922 — . 1 v.

Register of coimty highway warrants, motor fuel tax warrants, and motor
fuel tax allotments, showing warrant number, date, ano-unt, and purpose of
warrant, to v/hom paid, amounts received and disbursed, and amount avail-
able. Contains motor fuel tax warrants and allotments subsequent to 1928
only. Arr. chron. No index. Hdv\'. under pr. hdgs. 300 p. 12 x 14 x 2.
Co. elk.' s off., 1st fl.

For prior records see entry 5.

7. EXPENSE ACCOUNTS, 1858-64. 2 v. 1830-57, 1865— in Proceedings
of Board of Supervisors, Supervisors' Reports o.nd Record, entry 2.

Register of orders issued for expenses of courthouse, clerk's office, and
jail, showing name of account, order number, amount, and date of payment.
Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 100 p. 12 x 8 x ^. Tax
record rm. , bsmt.

8. SOLDIERS' BOUNTY BOOK, 1862-63. 1 v.

Record of orders issued for soldiers' bounties, showing name of volim-
teer, rank, company and regiment, residence, dates of enlistment ajid
mustering in, by whom, and amount of bounty. Arr. chron. Indexed alph.
by name of volunteer. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 90 p. 9 x 13^ x 1. Co.
clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Cancelled Coiinty Orders

9. COUNTY ORDERS, PAID AND CANCELLED, 1850—. 30 bdl. (1850-1912);
2 f.b. (1913 — ). Missing: 1874-87. 1830-49 in Proceedings of
Board of Supeirvisors (Papers), entry 1.

Cancelled county orders, showing order number, to whom issued, purpose,
amount, and dates of payment and cancellation. Also contains Jurors' Cer-
tificates, 1850-69, entry 10. Arr. by order no. No index. Hdw. on pr.
fm. Bdl. 6 X 9 X 10; f.b. 10 x 13 x 17. 21 bdl., 1850-71, 1889-1912,
clock tower rm. , 4th fl.; 9 bdl., 1872-88, 2 f.b., 1913 — , southeast strm.,
bsmt.

- 79 -
County Board - Management (10-15)

of County Properties

10. JURORS' CERTIFICATES, 1870—. 1 bdl., 2 f.b. 1850-69 in County
Orders, Paid and Cazicelled, entry 9.

Paid certificates for jury duty, showing certificate nvimber, term date,
name of juror, number of days of service, miles of travel, and total amount
of payment. Arr. by certificate no. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. Bdl.
4x9x7; f.b. 9 x 5 x 13. Bdl., 1870-77, clock tower rm. , 4th fl.;
f.b., 1878--, CO. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

11. BLIND WARRANTS (Stubs), 1915 — . 8 v. No prior records.

Stub record of blind pension orders, showing order number, to whom paid,
amount, and date of mailing or delivery. Arr. by order no. No index.
Hdw. on pr. fm. 300 p. 3^ x 5 x l|. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

12. CHECK STUBS, 1918--. 3 bdl.

Stubs of checks issued by county clerk, showing chec": number, to whom
issued, purpose, amount, and date of payment. Arr. chron. No index.
Hdw. on pr. fm. 5 x 9 x 24 - 8 x 9 x 11. 2 bdl., 1918-31, tax record
rm., bsmt.; 1 bdl., 1932--, co, clk.'s off., 1st fl.

For cancelled checks of treasurer, see entry 301.

Pension Funds and Applications

13. REGISTER OF BLIND PERSONS, 1915 1 v. (l). No prior records.

Register of applications for blind pensions, showing case number, nrme and
address of applicant, certification by examining physici?Ji, dates of ex-
amination and report to county board, and remarks. Arr. by case no. No
index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 192 p. 9 x 12 x 1. Co.- clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Receipts

14. WW BOUI\fTY RECORDS, 1865-73. 1 bdl.

Receipts for wolf bo-unties paid, showing to whom paid, date, amount, and
bounty number. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 4x4x9. Clock
tower rm. , 4th fl.

For other records of bounty orders, see entry 5.

Management of County Properties
Proposals, Bids, Contracts

15. COURTHOUSE RECORD, 1884-91. 1 v. Discoutinued.
Proceedings of the board of supervisors relative to erection of courthouse
in Galesburg, Illinois, showing appointment of building committee, plans,
bids, materials, specifications, alterations, office equipment, and con-
tracts and agreements. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of subject.
Hdw. 398 p. 17 X 11 X l|. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 80 -
County Board - Reports to (16-20)

Board

16. SPECIFICATIONS FOR REPAIRS, 1923. 1 bdl.

Specifications for repairs to coainty jail fire escape, and metal grating
for the treasurer's office, showing name of contractor, date and amount
of contract, and date of completion of repairs. No arr. No index.
Typed. 5 x 9 x 24. Tax record rm., "bsmt.

Bond Issues

17. (REGISTER OF BONDS), 1928—. 1 v. Prior records cannot te
located.

Register of school district and road and bridge bond issues, shovi^ing
names of issuing body and township, date, amount, and number of bonds,
purpose of issue, rate of interest, and date of maturity. Arr. chron.
Indexed alph. by name of twp. Hdvir. under pr. hdgs. 360 p. 15 x 13 x 2.
Coi elk. ' s off. annex, 1st fl.

Insurance

18. INSURANCE SCHEDULES, 1855-1927. 2 bdl. Missing: 1862-1926.
Discontinued. Title varies: Insurance Papers.

Insurance schedules and state auditor's certificates, showing names of
agent and insurance company, state in which incorporated, amounts of gross
receipts, expenses, and net receipts, notarial acknowledgment, date, and
signature of agent. The act requiring these returns to be made by insur-
ance companies was declared unconstitutional by the United States Supreme
Court. Arr. chron. No index, Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 1 x 9 x 14 -
4x9x3. Southeast strm. , bsmt.

Petitions

19-. ROAD PAPERS, 1830-52. 2 bdl. 1853 — in Proceedings of Board of
Supervisors (Papers) , entry 1.
Petitions to county commissioners' co\art for the establishment of roads,
bridges, and alteration of roads., court's appointment of examining com-
mittee, and reports of committees and appraisers. Arr. chron. No index.
Hdw. 8 X 4 X 12. Clock tower rm. , 4th fl.

Reports to Board
(See also entries 1, 2, 100, 317)

20. REPORT OP GOMivilTTEE TO LAY OFF THE COUNTY INTO TOWNS (Minutes),
1849-1901. 1 V. Discontinued.
Reports of the county court as the county board oxid board of supervisors
on the laying cff of the county into townships, the naming of same, names
given to towns, record of establishing the county home at Knoxville,
record of the moving of the county seat from Knoxville to Galesburg,
January 30, 1873, designation of the voting places in Galesburg, and
standing rules as adopted by the board of supervisors. Arr. chron. No.
index. Hdw. Condition poor. 312 p. 14 x 9 x 1-^,. Co. clk.'s off., 1st
fl.

For petition to county court on removal of county seat, see entry 150,

- 81 -
County Board - Jury Lists (21-25)

21. SCHOOL DISTRICT PLOTS MD AUTHORITY FOR SAME, 1854-55. 1 v.

1830-53, 1856 — in Proceedings of Board of Supervisors, Super-
visors' Reports and Record, entry 2.
Reports to county "board of school trustees' action in purchasing plots
of land for school purposes, authorized by legal voters, showing date,
description of plot, location, and purpose and amount of purchase. Arr.
"by school district no. No indexj Hdw„ on pr. fm. Condition poor.
150 p. 10 X 8 X |-. Tax record rmo, bsmto

For complete record of annual reports of superintendent of schools to
the county "boe.rd, see entry 317.

Jury Lists
(See also entries 1, 10, 102-
147, 156, 246, 247, 270, 27lj

22. JURY LIST, 1872--. 4 v. (2 not numbered, 2, 3).

List of petit Jiirors as selected by the county board, shov/ing names

of juror and court, residence, dates selected and drawn, and term date.

Also contains List of Grand Jurors, 1872-90, entry 23; and List of

Jurors in Insanity Cases, 1872-1903, 1932 — , entry 25. Arr. chron.

No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 478 p. 14 x 10 x 2. 2 v. not numbered,

1872-98, tax record rm., bsmt.; v. 2, 3, 1899 — , co . clk.'s off., 1st

fl.

23. LIST OF GRAND JURORS, 1891--. 1 v. (l). 1872-90 in Jury List,
entry 22.

List of grand jurors, showing names of juror, township, and court. Arr.
chron. Indexed alph. by name of juror. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 400 p.
12 X 10 X 2. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

24. SHERIFF'S REGISTER (Jury Venire), 1889-1930. 1 v. 1830-88,

1931 — in Proceedings of Board of Supervisors, Supervisors'
Reports and Record, entry 2.

Jury venire showing names of jurors, address, number of calls, and re-
marks. Arr. chron. No index, Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 700 p. 12 x 12 x 3.
Southeast strm., bsmt.

25. LIST OF JURORS IN INSANITY CASES, 1904-31. 1 v. 1872-1903,

1932 — in Jury List, entry. 22.

List of jurors in insanity cases, showing najies of jurors and court, resi-
dence, and dates of selection and drawing. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw.
under pr. hdgs. 100 p. 16 x 16 x 1. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 82 -

(Next entry 26, p. 87)

II, COUNTY CLERK

Forerunner of the present county clerk was. the clerk of the county
commissioners' court. This court was the coiinty administrative tody from
the organization of Knox County in 1830 to 1849.-'- The Constitution of 1848
and laws of 1849 created a new judicial branch of county government pre-
sided over by the county judge and entitled the "county court, ^ and provided
for the quadrennial election of a "clerk of the county court. '^"^ In addition
to his duties as clerk of the judicial court, the incumbent was also to act
as clerk of the administrative branch of government, which consisted of the
county judge and two justices of the peace sitting at special terms. In
1853 Knox County elected the township form of government, necessitating
the election of a board of supervisors to supplant the county court as the
county administrative body,*^ Accordingly, the clerk of the county court
became ex-officio clerk of the board of supervisors.

The above-mentioned clerks all performed the duties of a county clerk
as well as those of clerks of a judicial or administrative body. In fact,
legislation frequently referred to these incumbents as "county clerk" when
defining duties relating to cotinty business as distinct from duties as a
clerk of a judicial or administrative body. The Constitution of 1870 spe-
cifically provided for a county clerk, who has continued to act to the
present in this capacity, and also as clerk of the county board and clerk
of the county and probate courts.'* The revised laws of 1874 adopted the
use pf a distinction of titles for each of his ex-officio capacities,
applying the title "county. clerk" only when referring to his duties as
such. It is the performance of these duties that gives rise to the records
dealt with in this section.

The clerk was an appointee of the county commissioners' court from 183Q
to 1837.5 In the latter year the office became elective for a four-year
term;^ and a two-year term became effective in 1847." A $1000 bond was set,^
The clerk of the county court served for a four-year term and ^as bonded in

1. L.1819, p. 175.

2. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 16,18,19; L.1849, p. 63.

3. Constitution of 1848, Art. VII, sec. 6; L.1849, p. 190-229; L.1851,
p, 35-78.

4. Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 18 and Art. X, sec. 8; R.S.1874,
p. 260,273.

5. L.1819, p. 175.

6. L.1837, p. 49.

7. L.1845, p. 28.

8. L.1819. p. 176,177.

- 83 -
County Clerk (Next entry 26, p. 87)

the sum of $3000. ■'■ The Constitution of 1870 and laws of 1874, estahlishing
the office of county clerk, provided for his election for a quadrennial
term, and the amount of his iDond was to he set by the county hoard. 2 His
bond is recorded upon the records of his office, and deposited with the
clerk of the circuit court. He is required to take oath, and is commis-
sioned by the Governor. "^ The county seal is kept by the clerk, and used
by him when he is required to use an official seal.

In general, the county clerk's performance of his functions results
in records relating to the following: taxation, vital statistics, licenses,
and bonds. Various officials and agencies having authority over some of
these matters report to, or deposit records with, the county clerk, who,
in this manner acts as a coordinating factor in the execution of local
and state affairs. In regard to other of these matters the clerk is re-
quired to perform duties on his own behalf and retain the records resulting
from such performance. Illustrations of both of these procedures may be
foiind by examining the various duties and records relating to taxation.

It is the duty of the county clerk to procure all books and blanks
used in the assessment and collection of taxes, and to list in such books
the lands and lots subject to taxation.'^ These books are turned over to
the supervisor of assessments, who has the township assessors enter the
valuations against each piece of property listed, completes revisions and
corrections upon complaint of property owners, and returns the books in
duplicate to the cotrnty clerk." Personal property assessments are handled
in essentially the same manner. The board of review then makes adjust-
ments on complaints and equalizes assessments between districts, certi-
fying corrections and revisions to the county clerk. " The county clerk
then reports the entire assessment list to the state tax commission for
equalization, the equalized list then being used by the county clerk in
ascertaining tax rates and extending taxes. '^

1. L.1849, p. 62,63.

2. Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8; R.S.1874, v. 260,273.

3. R.S.1874, p. 321.

4. L.1867, p. 106; L.1872, p. 19,32; L.1903, p. 297. During the period
of the first constitution such books and lists were prepared by the
auditor of public accounts and turned over to the clerk of the county
commissioners' court. L.1825, p. 173; L.1827, p. 329; L.1839, p. 3,4;
L.1847, p. 79.

5. The first assessment officer was the county treasurer. L.1819, p. 315;
R. L.1827, p. 328-36. In 1839 this function was performed by the dis-
trict assessors, who received from the county clerk copies of the
auditor's transcripts. L.1839, p. 3,4. The treasurer resumed these
duties in 1844, L.1843, p. 231; until the adoption of the township
organization in 1853 saw the township assessors acting in each town-
ship. L.1851, p. 39. The trer.surer now acts as ex-officio super-
visor of assessments. L.1B98, p. 36-44.

6. L.1898, p. 36-44.

7. L.1919, p. 718.

- 84 -
County Clerk » (Next entry 36, p. 87)

The state tax commission also certifies to the county clerk the
assessments of the capital stock of corporations and railroad and telegraph
companies, it "being the duty of the clerk to extend thes^ taxes, and re-
tain the 'books after use 'by the collector ,-'-

The books are next turned over to the county collector, who, after
collection, returns lists of collections, together with lists of uncollected
real and personal property taxes. ^ The county clerk attends all tax sales,
prepares a list of all sales and issues duplicate reports thereof, records
affidavits of purchases of property for taxes, and keeps a record known as
the "tax judgment, sale, redemption, and forfeiture record."'^

An extensive group of vital statistics records is kept 'by the county
clerk, including records relating to births and deaths, marriages, physi-
cians and midwives. It is interesting to note that the first legislation
in regard to the keeping of vital statistics was included in the act for
the establishment of medical societies.^ One section of this act made it
the duty of every physician to keep a record of births, deaths, and dis-
eases occurring within the vicinity of his practice and to transmit such
record to his medical society, whereupon the record was to be published in
the newspapers. In 1842 it was provided that a parent could appear before
the clerk of the coiinty commissioners' court and make affidavit as to the
birth of a child, and the eldest next of kin of a deceased person could
similarly appear and make affidavit as to death. ^ It is probable that the
tenor of the above mentioned laws explains the fact that no birth or death
records exist in Knox County prior to 1877, the first law, 1819, requiring
no public record to be kept, and the 1842 law providing that affidavits
"may" be made. The act of 1877 creating the state board of health required
that all births and deaths in the county be reported to the county clerk by
the physicians and accoucheurs supervising such events.^ Teeth were put
into this and subsequent laws by providing penalties for non-compliance. In
1901 death certificates, issued by physicians, midwives, or coroners, were
to be presented to town clerks who issued burial permits and forwarded the
certificates to the county clerk. "^ In 1903 certificates of death were to be
turned over to the state board of health, which board, in turn, delivered
to the county clerk all certificates so received. ^ In 1915 the act to pro-

1. L. 1871-72, p. 11,13,16; L.1937, p. 1011.

2. L.1849, p. 121,122; L. 1871-72, p. 55; L.1951, p. 759. In 1821 the
auditor of public accounts was charged with the collection of taxes
on nonresident's lands. L.1821, p. 182.

3. L.1859, p. 3; L. 1871-72, p. 48; L.1879, p. 230.

4. L.1819, p. 233.

5. L. 1842-43, p. 210-12.

6. L.1877, p. 209.

7. L.1901, p, SOl-'i. .

8. L.1903, p. 315-18.

- 85 -
County Clerk (Next entry 26, p. 87)

vide for the registration of all "births, stillhirths and deaths provided
that the local registrars, the township clerks, deposit a complete set of
such records with the county clerk who was charged with the "binding and in-
dexing, or recording, and safe keeping of such records. ^ From the earliest
date the legislation in regard to these matters provided that the clerk re-
tain the abstracts and certificates, keep a record of "births and deaths,
maintain alphabetical indexes, and issue certified copies of certificates
upon request. The clerk has also "been required to prepare a register of all
physicians and accoucheurs in the county. 2

From the date of establishment of Knox County the county clerk, or
clerk of the county com-nissioners' court, has been required to file mar-
riage certificates and certificates of parents' consent to the marriage of
minors. 3

In 1827 the clerk vi;as required to keep a separate register of marriages
in addition to his file of certificates. 4 Before 1877 persons desiring to
marry were required to secure licenses from the county clerk only v/hen they
had not previously published such intention, but in that year the securing
of a license was made mandatory. 5 Although a record of applications for
marriage license has been kept by the clerk in this county since 1883, an
act of 1937 appears to be the first legislation requiring the maintenance
of such a record. 6 The same act provides that persons desiring to marry
shall present to the county clerk a certificate setting forth that such
person is free from venereal diseases, such certificates to be filed with
the application for license to marry. "^ Indexes to marriage records have
been kept in Knox County since 1830.

The county clerk is charged with a number of duties relating to elec-
tions, such as preparing and issuing blank ballots, poll books, and certif-
icates of election, and keeping a record of registers of elections, peti-
tions, marked ballots, tally sheets, and election returns which are trans-
mitted to him by the judges of election. ^ Abstracts of returns were form-
erly prepared by the clerk, but these are now originated by the election
commissioners or judges of election and deposited with the clerk. Re-
turned ballots are destroyed by the clerk six months after election, pro-
vided no contest, in which the ballots are needed, is in progress. 9 In
1889, when returns of elections for school trustees were made to the county
clerk, he was charged with furnishing to the county superintendent of schools

1.

L.1915,

p.

660.

2.

L.1877,

P.

209.

3.

L.1819,

p.

27.

4.

L.1827,

P-

289.

5.

L.1877,

p.

130.

6.

L.1957,

p.

909.

7.

L.1937,

p.

910.

8.

L.1819,

p.

25,206; L.1821, p.

60; L.1845

, p. 41,42; L.1865,

L.1911,

p.

310; L.1929, p. 42

9.

L.1917,

p.

444.

77; L.1823, p. 54,55; R.L.1829, p. 59,
p. 54; L. 1871-72, p. 380; L.1835, p. 142;

County Clerk (Next entry 26, p. 87)

a list of all such trustees. ■'■ Now the clerk does not enter into the pro-
cedure, the school trustees canvassing the returns and certifying directly
to the superintendent of schools. 2

The "bonds of a number of officials are required to "be transmitted to
the clerk to he filed and entered in a hook maintained for that purpose. 3
Justices' of the peace and constables' oaths, "bonds, and securities are
approved by the clerk and entered in a separate hook in accordance with
statutory requirement. This hook shov/s the date on which each justice of
the peace and constable was sworn into office, and the date of com.nission
by the Governor. Resignations in these offices are made to the county
clerk, who enters such fact in the justices' and constables' record. ^

The clerk is also charged with issuing licenses to peddlers, taverns,
ferries, etc., and keeping records of the same.^ Other records kept are
those relating to estrays; registers of professionals, including physi-
cians, midwives, optometrists, dentists, chiropodists, and veterinarians; 5
list of county officers; list of town officers which is furnished annually
by the town clerk; "^ record of notaries public; 8 and book of state civil
service rules. 9 Referring to his list of town officers, the county clerk
reports annually to the state department of public health the n.ames and
addresses of the supervisor, town assessor, and town clerk of each of the
tov/nships of Knox County. 10

Included in the provision that the county clerk be charged with the
care and custody of all records, books and papers appertaining to and filed
or deposited in his officell g-re those duties as clerk of the board of super-
visors, wherein he is required to record the proceedings of the board and
to file all their books, records and accounts. 12 Also included are his
record keeping duties as ex-officio clerk of the county court, with its re-

1.

L,1889, p, 271,322.

2,

L.1909, p. 342.

3.

R.S.1845, p. 136,395; L.1861, p. 237,238; R.S.1874,
p. 185.

p. 325; L.1895,

4.

L.1895, p. 185.

5.

L.1819, p. 79; R.L.1827, p. 320; R.L,1833, p. 439;

R.L.1837, p. 175.

6.

L.1819, p. 206,207; L.1877, p. 209; L.1881, p. 79;

L,1899, p. 273,

275,280; L.1917, p. 588; L.1923, p. 436; L.1927, p.

, 600; L.1935,

p. 990.

7.

L.-1861, p. 226; R,S..1874, p. 1065.

8.

L, 1871-72, p. 575; R,S,1874, p, 721; L,1875, p. 88,

9.

L,1905, p. 113; L.1911, p. 222.

10,

L.1923, p. 480.

11.

R.S.1874, p. 322.

12.

L.1861, p. 238.

- 87 -
County Clerk - Taxation (26, 27)

suiting duties in relation to probate matters.! The clerk is also re-
quired to keep Jury lists^ and a "book in v/hich he enters details as to
orders upon the treasurer. He is further required to maintain alphabeti-
cal indexes of all records and papers in his office, and to supply a copy
of any of the same to any person so requesting and paying the required fee. 3

Taxation
(See also entries 1, 2, 100, 101, 203, 273-287, 298)

Lists of Taxable
Property, Levies

26. COUNTY CLERK'S RECORD OF TAXES LEVIED AND AMOUNTS WANTED,
1874—. 67 bdl. (1874—); 1 f.b. (1916—). Prior records can-
not be located.

County clerk's record of taxes levied, showing date, total amount of as-
sessed property in tov:nship, school district numbers, amount of levy for
each school district, city or village, total assessed value, amount of
road and bridge levy, tax rate, and certificates from all the tax-levying
bodies of the county, showing the amo-unt of taxes v/anted for school dis-
tricts, villages, townships, roads, and bridges. Also contains Special
Assessments, 1874-1926, 1935 — , entry 34. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw.
under pr. hdgs. Bdl. 5x4x9; f.b. 9 x 4 x 13. 1 bdl., 1874-81, north-
east strm., bsmt.; 39 bdl., 1882-1909, tax record rm., bsmt.; 27 bdl.,
1910—, northeast strm., bsmt.; 1 f.b., 1915—, co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

27. SCHOOL LEVIES, 1845—. 28 bdl., 1 f.b., 9 envelopes.
Missing: 1849-52, 1856-59, 1861. Prior records cannot be lo-
cated.

Certificates of levy, showing school district number, amount of money
needed for operating expenses and repairs for ensuing year; school plats
1845-85, showing boundaries, school district number, location of schools,
and legal description of school lands. Arr. by school district no. No
index. Nature of recording varies. Edl. 4 x 8^ x 2>:; f.b. 18 x 24 x 28;
envelopes 9 x 9 x 12. 28 bdl., 1845-85, clock tower rm. ,: 4th fl.; 1 f.b.,
1886-1926, northeast strm., bsmt.; 9 envelopes, 1927 — , co. clk.'s off.,
annex, 1st fl.

1. R.S.1874, p. 260.

2. R.S.1874, p. 630.

3. R.S.1874, p. 321.

- 38 -
County Clerk - Taxation (28, 29)

28. ASSESSOR'S BOOKS, REAL ESTATE AND PERSONAL PROPERTY, 1839—.
1433 V.

(Knox County, 1839-58. 45 v. Missing: 1851, 1857.

Cedar ToTOship, 1864—. 64 v. Missing: 1865, 1868, 1870,

1872-74.

Chestnut Township, I860—. 60 v. Missing: 1861-72, 1881, 1884,

1890, 1901-2.

Copley Township, 1873—. 63 v. Missing: 1881.

City of Abingdon, 1923—. 14 v.

City of Galesburg, 1879--. 148 v. Missing: 1880, 1883.

City of Knoxville, 1875—. 61 v. Missing: 1882,

Elba Township, 1873—. 60 v. Missing: 1881, 1884, 1898-99.

Galesburg Township, 1871—. 64 v. Missing: 1872-73.

Haw Creek Township, 1876—. 56 v. Missing: 1879-81, 1901-2.

Henderson Township, 1887—. 58 v. Missing: 1883, 1889.

Indian Point Township, 1877—. 57 v. Missing: 1881, 1891.

Knox Township, 1859—.. 63 v. Missing: 1860-74.

Lynn Township, 1875—. 59 v. Missing: 1876, 1879, 1902.

Maquon Township, 1877--. 55 v. Missing: 1878-80, 1898, 1900.

Ontario Township, 1874—. 62 v. Missing; 1879.

Orange Township, 1876 — . 61 v.

Persifer Township, 1874 — . 63 v.

Reo Township, 1874—. 45 v. Missing: 1875-76, 1881-83, 1885-93,

1898, 1901-2.

Salem Township, 1874—. 55 v. Missing: 1881-83, 1886-89, 1898.

Sparta Township, 1874—. 62 v. Missing: 1882.

Truro Tovrnship, I860—. 60 v. Missing: 1861-73, 1879-82.

Victoria Township, 1877—. 56 v. Missing: 1831, 1885-86, 1893.

Walnut Grove Township, 1874—. 42 v. Missing: 1875-76, 1880-83,

1885-98, 1900).

1835-38 in Tax List (Assessor's and Collector's Book), entry 39.
Assessor's lists of real estate and personal property, including dog tax
record, with name of person assessed, description of property, value, im-
provements, total value, tax spread, equalized value, ampunt of assessment,
and remarks. In 1875, city of Knoxville was set off from Knox township;
in 1879, city of Galesburg from Galesburg township; and in 1923, city of
Abingdon from Indian Point township. Also contains Tabular Statement of
Assessments and Taxes, 1839-73, entry 33; Mortgage List, 1839-1912, 1915 — ,
entry 36; Tax List, Hon-resident, 1839-47, 1849—, entry 40. Arr. by sec,
tvv-p., and range. Personal property arr. alph. by name of owner. 1839-52,
hdw.; 1853—, hdw. under pr. hdgs. 100 - 400 p. 14 x 9 x ^ - 18 x 15 x 2.
1341 v., 1839-1932, tax record rm., bsmt.; 92 v., 1933—, co. clk.'s off.,
1st fl.

29. ASSESSMENTS RETURNS RAILROADS, TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE COS.,
1864—. 14 bdl. Missing: 1887-91, 1894-97.

Assessment returns made by railroad, telegraph, and telephone companies,
showing amo-onts of trackage, real estate, and personal property, itemized
value, and description of property in each township. Arr. chron. No
index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 8 x 4 x 10. 11 bdl., 1864-1912, clock tower
rm., 4th fl.; 2 bdl., 1913-36, northeast strra., bsmt.; 1 bdl., 1937 — ,
CO. clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

- 89 -
County Clerk - Ta:cation (3G-35)

30. RAILROAD TAX BOOKS, 1864--. 17 v. (l not nuntered, 1-9, 7 not
numbered) .

List of taXcible railroad property, showing name of railroad company,
equalized value, rate, ta,x spread, and total tax. Also contains City of
Galesburg, Illinois, R.R. Property Tax List Except Rolling Stock and
Tracks, 1864-72, 1900—, entry 31, and Statement of Railroad Taxes, 1864-
72, 1884 — , entry 32. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of railroad.
Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 228 p. 18 x 20 x 2. 1 v. not numbered, 1864-69,
clock tower rm., 4th fl.; v. 1-9, 1870-1908, tax record rm. , bsmt.; 7 v.
not niimbered, 1909 — , co . elk. ' s off,, 1st fl,

31. CITY OF GALESBURG, ILLINOIS R.R. PROPERTY TAX LIST EXCEPT
ROLLING STOCK AND TPACKS, 1873-99. 1 v. 1864-72, 1900— in
Railroad Tax Books, entry 30.

Lists of taxes levied and collected on Illinois railroo,d property, other
than rolling stock and trackage, located in the city of Galesburg. Arr.
chron. No index. Hdv;. under pr. hdgs. 25 p. 16 x 10 x i . Tax record
rm. , bsmt.

32. STATEMENT OF RAILROAD TAKES, 1873-83. 1 v. 1864-72, 1884—
in Railroad Tax Books, entry 30,

Lists of railroad taxes collected by tov/nships, shov/ing location, where
taxable, schedule as returned by the railroad company, valuation hy town
assessors, rate percent of equalized value by county board, and amviunt
of taxes collected. Arr. chron. No index. Hdv;. under pr. hdgs.
Condition poor. 224 p, 18 x 12 x 2, Northeast strm., bsmt,

33. TABULAR STATEMENT OF ASSESSMENTS MD TAXES, 1874—. 5 v.
Missing: 1894-99, 1906-26. 1839-73 in Assessor's Books, Real
Estate and Personal Property, entry 28.

Tabular statement of assessments, sho\7ing name of township, valuations
by local assessor, as revised by supervisors of assessments rnd corrected
by board of review, for lands, railroad and personal property, tax spread,
and total tajc. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 150 p.
18 X 17 X ^-. 2 v., 1874-93, 1900-1905, northeast strm., bsmt,; 3 v.,
1927--, CO, clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

34. SPECIAL ASSESSwiENTS, 1927-34. 3 bdl, 1874-1926, 1935— in
County Clerk's Record of Taxes Levied and Amounts Wanted, entry 26,

Special assessment sheets showing name of owner, legal description of
property, equalized value, purpose of levy, tota,l, and remarks, Arr.
chron. No index. Hdv/, under pr. hdgs. 5 x 9 x 12. Northeast strm.,
bsmt,

35. SPECIAL ASSESSMENT RECORD, 1878—. 21 v. (A-U) .

Record of and copies of petitions for special assessments, showing names
of city or town and improvement, terra date, details of local improve-
ments, dates of posting of notices and ordinances, estimated cost of
improvement, and amount of special assessment, Arr. chron. Indexed
alph, by name of improvement, 1878-1915, hdw. ; 1916 — , typed. 600 p.
18 X 12 X 3. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 90 -
County Clerk - Taxation (36-41)

36. MORTGAGE LIST, 1913-14. 1 v. 1839-1912, 1915— in Assessor's
Books, Real Estate and Personal Property, entry 28.

List of mortgages reported "by circuit clerk for taxation, shov/ing date,
instrument number, names of mortgagor and mortgagee, amount of mortgage,
equalized value ty county board, and amount if tax. Arr. chron. ITo
index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. Condition poor. 100 p. 16 x 18 x 1.
Southeast strm., "bsmt.

37. CLASSIFICATION, SCHOOL AND ROAD TAX, 1887-1917. 12 v.
1830-86, 1918— in Proceedings of Beard of Supervisors,
Supervisors' Reports and Record, entry 2.

Record of classification of taxes by school and road districts, show-
ing in whose name assessed, section, lot, and block numbers, descrip-
tion of school and road district, equalized value, amount of ta:<;, and
total value. Arr. by sec. and range. No index. Hdw, \inder pr. hdgs.
160 p. 16 X 14 X i. Tax record rra. , bsmt.

38. ROAD TAX LIST, 1871-80. 3 bdl. 1830-70, 1881— in Proceedings
of Board of Supervisors (Papers), entry 1.

Tax lists for road work and improvements, showing if tax paid by work or
cash, in whose name assessed, location of road, kind of improvement,
amounts of assessment and tajc, and date and amount of payment, Arr. chron.
No index. Hdw. londer pr. hdgs. 9 x 4 x 12. Clock tower rm., 4th fl.

39. TAX LIST (Assessor's and Collector's Book), 1835-44. 1 v.
Discontinued.

Collector's and assessor's tax lists of personal and real property, show-
ing owner's name, description of property, kind of tax, equalized value
by state tax commission, amount of tax, date and by Avhom paid, and re-
marks. Subsequent to 1838 and 1844 respectively, Assessor's Books, Real
Estate and Personal Property, entry 28, and Collector's Books, entry 41,
kept separately. Arr. 'by sec, tvi^.i and range. No inde::. Hdw. under
pr. hdgs. Writing faded, paper poor. 150 p. 18 x 14 x 1. Northwest
strm, , 4th fl.

40. TAX LIST, NON-RESIDENT, 1848. 1 v. 1839-47, 1849— in
Assessor's Books, Real Estate and Personal Property, entry 28.

Tax list of real estate of non-resident owners, sho^'ing name of ovmer,
legal description of property, equalized value, amount of tax, and re-
marks, Arr, by sec. and range. No index. Hdw. 300 p. 15 x 12 x 2.
Tax record rm. , bsmt.

Collections, Abatement

41. COLLECTOR'S BOOKS, 1845—. 320 v.
(Lands, 1845-50, 1855—. 87 v.

Personal Property, 1851--. 84 v. Missing: 1852.

Lots, 1855—. 84 v.

Lands and Lots, 1851-54, 6 v.

Lots and Personal Property, 1850. 1 v.

- 91 -
County Clerk - Taxation (42-46)

City of Galesturg, Personal Property, 1908—. 29 v.

City of Galesturg, Lotr, and Blocks, 1908—. 29 v.)-

1835-44 in Tax List (Assessor's and Collector's Book),

entry 39.
Collector's books showing names of owner, tovmship, and city, legal
description of property, tax spread, amount and date iJaid, and amoiint
delinquent. Also contains Abstract of Railroad, Telegraph and Telephone
Co.'s, 1845-1908, 1918 — , entry 43; and State and County Tax Account, Dis-
tribution of Taxes, 1845-1910, entry 282. Arr. alph. by name of tvrp.
and by lot and block nos. No index. 1845-50, hdw.; 1841 — , hdw. under pr.
hdgs. 200 - 600 p. 16 x 10 x 1 - 16 x 18 x 3. 270 v., 1845-1926, tax
record rm. , bsmt.; 50 v., 1927 — , co. elk. ' s off., 1st fl,

42. ABSTRACT OF FOOTIKGS, 1886 — . 41 v. Prior records cannot be
located.

Abstract of footings of the several Dages of the collector's books, show-
ing date, page number, totals of each page, kind of tax, and grand, totals.
Arr. chron. No index. Hd^v. under pr. hdgs. 50 - 300 p. 10 x 13 x j -
14 X 20 X li. 1 v., 1886, west strm., 4th fl.; 40 v., 1387--, co. clk.'s
off., annex, 1st fl.

43. ABSTRACT OF RAILROAD, TELEGRAPH AND TELEPHONE GO'S, 1909-17.
16 V. 1845-1908, 1918— in Collector's Books, entry 41.

Abstract of taxes for each township, showing date, names of railroad and
telegraph or telephone company, amounts of state, county, town, road,
bridge, school, city, and total tax. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under
pr. hdgs. 20 p. 9 x 12 x -:5-. Tax record rm., bsmt.

44. ABATEMENT RECORD, 1922 — . 15 v. Prior records cannot be
located.

Lists of abated personal property taxes, showing date, name of person
assessed, equalized value, tax spread, amounts of interest and costs,
total due, and remarks. Arr. alph. by name of twp. No index. Hdiv. under
pr. hdgs. 200 p. 13 x 10 x 1. 12 v., 1922-32, northeast strm., bsmt.;
3 v., 1933—, treas.'s off., 1st fl.

45. DELINQUENT TAX BOOKS, 1834—. 129 v.

List of delinquent real estate o.nd personal property taxes, including
special assessments, showing nsine of owner, description of property,
equalized value, tax spread, and total tax. Also contains Delinquent Non-
resident Tax List, 1847 — , entry 46. Arr. by sec. and range. No index.
1834-65, hdw.; 1866—, hdw. under pr. hdgs. 200 p. 15 x 10 x 1. 54 v.,
1834-88, west strm., 4th fl.; 69 v., 1889-1932, northeast strm., bsmt.;
6 v., 1933—, treas.'s off., 1st fl.

46. DELINQUENT NON-RESIDENT TAX LIST, 1833-46. 1 v. 1847— in
Delinquent Tajc Books, entry 45.

List of delinquent taxes of non-resident owners, showing years of delin-
quency, name and address of owner, legal description of property, kind
of tax, interest, and total tax. Arr. by sec. and range. No index.
Hdw. 200 p. 16 X 12 X 2. Tax record rm., bsmt.

- 9C -
County Clerk - Taxation (47-52)

47. DELINQUENT SPECIAL ASSESSMENTS, 1892—. 8 bdl.

Documents concerning delinquent special assessments, showing purpose of
assessment, name of owner, equalized value, amounts of tax, interest,
costs, and total delinquent. Arr. ty twp. and range. No index. Hdw. .
under pr. hdgs. 4 x 4 x 12. Tax record rm. , tsmt.

For prior records of delinquent special assessments, see entry 45.

48. BANK TAX COLLECTION BOOKS, 1921. 21 v. Discontinued,
Duplicate collector's tax "books furnished banks in the county for the
collection of taxes, showing name of owner, legal description of property,
equalized value, tax spread, total tax, by whom paid, and date of payment.
Real estate arr. by twp. and range; personal property arr. alph. by

name of owner. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 150 p. 17 x 14 x 1.
Northeast strm., bsmt.

Judgment, Sale and
Redemption

49. TAX SALE CERTIFICATES OF PURCHASE AM) REDEMPTION, 1835—.
3 bdl., 2 f.b.

Tax sale certificates of purchase and redemption, showing name of pur-
chaser or redeemer, amount of purchase, legal description of property,
and dates of sale, redemption, and filing. Arr. chron, No index.
Hdw. on pr. fm. Bdl. 9 x 4 x 12; f.b. 8 x 4 x 10. Bdl., 1835-61,
clock tower rm. , 4th fl.; f.b., 1862 — , co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

50. AFFIDAVITS FOR TAX DEEDS, 1851—. 3 f.b., 2 bdl.
Missing: 1891-97.

Affidavits for tax deeds, showing name of purchaser, consideration,
legal description of property, and signatures of owner and county clerk,
Arr, chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fra. F,''^, 9x4 x 13; bdl. 7 x 4 x 10.
2 f.b., 1851-1903, clock tower rm. , 4th fl.j 2 bdl., 1904-33, northeast
strm., .bsmt.; 1 f.b., 1934—, co. clk.'s off., .1st fl.

51. AFFIDAVIT FOR TAX DEED RECORD, 1849 — . 5 v. (l not numbered,
2-5).

Copies of affidavits for tax deeds, showing date, legal description of
property, amount of tax, name of purchaser, and certificate of publisher
as to publication notices. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of pur-
chaser. 1849-1925, hdw.; 1926 — , typed. 592 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Co.
elk. 's off., 1st fl.

52. TAX JUDGMENT, SALE, REDEMPTION AND FORFEITURE RECORD, 1830—.
12 V.

Record of sales of real estate for taxes, showing date of sale, legal
description of land, number of acres sold, amounts of taxes, interest,
and penalties, total tax, name of purchaser or redeemer, and date of
redemption. Also contains Petition and Precept for Sale for Taxes of
Former Years, entry 54, and Tax Collector's List of Land Sold for Taxes,
entry 57. Prior to 1880 Tax Sale Record, entry 53, and Tax Judgment
Record, entry 55, kept separately. Arr. by sec. and range. .No
index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 600 p. 16 x 20 x 3. 9 v., 1800-1933,
tax record rm. , bsmt.; 3 v., 1934 — , co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 93 -
County Clerk - Taxation (53-57)

53. TAX SALE RECORD, 1823-79. 8 v. (l not labeled, 1, 2 not
labeled, B, D-F). Title varies: Auditors Tax Sales. 1880 —
in Tax Judgment, Sale, Redemption and Forfeiture Record,
entry 52.

Lists of real estate sold for taxes, showing names of owner and pur-
chaser, legal description of property, amount of taxes, penalties, costs,
and interest due, date, and amount of sale. Also contains Tax Collector's
List of Land Sold for Taxes, 1823-55, 1858-79, entry 57. Arr. chron.
No index. 1823-54, hdw, ; 1855-79, hdw. under pr. hdgs. 200 - 300 p.
14x8xl-14x9x l-g-. Tax record rm. , bsmt.

54. PETITION AND PRECEPT FOR SALE FOR TAXES OF FORMER YEARS,
1846-63. 5 V. 1840-45, 1864-79 in Tax Judgment Record,
entry 55; 1880 — in Tax Judgment, Sale, Redemption and
Forfeiture Record, entry 52.

Petitions for sale of delinquent lands, orders for, and record of sales,
showing dates, names of petitioners, owners, and purchasers, legal de-
scription of property, amounts of taxes, interest, costs, and purchase
price. Arr. by sec. and range. No index. Hdw. 100 p. 15 x 11 x 1,
Tax record rm, , bsmt.

55. TAX JUDGMENT RECORD, 1840-79. 12 v. (7 not lettered, 5, 1
not lettered, D-F). 1880 — in Tax Judgment, Sale, Redemption
and Forfeiture Record, entry 52.

Tax judgments on delinquent property, showing petition for judgment,
names of owner and petitioner, legal description of property, valuation,
amounts of taxes, penalties, and costs due, dates of petition, sale or
redemption, and court orders. Also contains Petition and Precept for
Sale for Taxes of Former Years, 1840-45, 1864-79, entry 54. Arr. chron.
No index. 1850-57, hdw,; 1858-79, hdw. under pr. hdgs. 300 p.
14 X 9 X ll. 2 V. not lettered, 1840-49, west strm. , 4th fl.; 5 v.
not lettered, B, D-F, 1850-79, tax record rm. , bsmt.

56. COm^TY JUDGE'S ORDER FOR SALE OF LOTS IN KNOXVILLE, 1854-60.
1 V. Discontinued,

List of lots sold for delinquent taxes, showing name of owner, lot and
block numbers, subdivision, equalized value, date and amount of sale,
and remarks. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 125 p.
12 X 8 X g-. Tax record rm. , bsmt.

57. TAX COLLECTOR'S LIST OF LAND SOLD FOR TAXES, 1856-57. 2 v,
1823-55, 1858-79 in Tax Sale Record, entry 53; 1880 — in Tax
Judgment, Sale, Redemption and Forfeiture Record, entry 52,

List of lands sold for unpaid taxes, showing name of owner, legal de-
scription of property, assessed value, equalized value by state. tax
commission, and reason for default. Arr. by sec. and range. No index.
Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 266 p. 16 x 10 x 1. Tax record rm. , bsmt.

- 94 -
County Clerk - Vital (58-62)

Statistics

Vital Statistics

Births (See also
entries 96, 291)

58. INDEX TO BIRTHS, 1877—. 4 v.

Index to births, showing names of child, parents, and physician or mid-
wife, certificate number, and book and page of record. Arr. alph. by
name of child. Hdw, under pr. hdgs. 600 p. 18 x 12 x 2-2* Co.
elk. 's off., 1st fl.

59. BIRTH CERTIFICATES (and Stillbirths), 1877—. 5 bdl. , 21 Vr
Certificates of births, sho^7ing date, sex of child, number of children,
names of child, parents, and physician or midv/ife, and residence, color,
age, birthplace, and occupation of parents. Subsequent to 1916 original
certificates bound in loose-leaf form. Contains scattered stillbirth
certificates to 1915. 1877-1915, arr. chron. ; 1916 — , arr. alph. by name
of child. For index, see entry 58; for index to stillbirths, see entry
61. Hdw. on pr. fn. Bdl. 5 x 9 x 24; v. 600 p. 9 x.lO x 3. Co. elk. ' s
off., 1st fl.

For other stillbirth certificates, see entry 62.

60. REGISTER OF BIRTHS, 1877—. 32 v. (l-ll, 21 not numbered).
Birth register showing certificate number, place and date of birth, sex
and color of child, names of child, parents, and physician or midwife,
residence of parents, number of children, and. occupation of father.
Arr. chron. For index, see entry 58. 1877-1915, hdw. under pr. hdgs.;
1916 — , hdw. and typed under pr. hdgs. 300 p. 18|- x 12| x 2. Co.
elk. 's off., 1st fl.

Deaths (See also
entries 96, 291)

61. INDEX TO DEATHS, 1877—. 4 v.

Index to deaths and stillbirths, shomng certificate nuraber, name and
address. of deceased, date of death, and book and page of record. Arr.
alph. by name of deceased. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 400 p. 18 x 12 x 2.
Co. elk. 's off., 1st fl.

62. DEATHS AND STILLBIRTHS, 1877—. 4 bdl., 12 v. Title varies:
Death Certificates.

Certificates of deaths and stillbirths, showing names of deceased, phy-
sician, parents, and undertaker, date, place and cause of death, residence,
marital status, age, sex, color, occupation, and place of birth. Sub-,
sequent to 1915 original certificates bound in loose-leaf form. 1877-
1915, arr. chron,; 1916 — , arr. alph. by name of deceased. For index,
see entry 61. Hdw. on pr. fm. Bdl. 8 x 10 x 24; v. 600 p. 11 x 16^ x
3^. 4 bdl., 1877-1915, tax record rm. , bsnt.; 12 v., 1916—, eo.
elk. 's off. annex, 1st fl.

For other stillbirth certificates, see entry 59.

- 95 -
County Clerk - Vital ' (63-68)

Statistics

63. REGISTER OF DEATHS AMD STILLBIRTHS, 1877—. 25 v. (1-13,
1877-1919; 12 not numbered, 1916—).

Register of deaths and stillbirths, showing certificate number, names
of deceased, physician, and undertaker, address, sex, color, and age of
deceased, date, place and cause of death, and place and date of burial.
Arr. chron. For index, see entry 61. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 440 p.
18 X 12 X 2^. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

64. STILLBIRTHS, 1878-95. 1 v. Discontinued.

Record of stillbirths, showing names of parents, sex and color of child,
place of birth, date and time of death, physician's certificate as to
cause of death, and place and date of burial. Arr. alph. by surnajtne of
mother. For index, see entry 61. Hdw. on pr. fm. 300 p. 18 x 12 x 1^.
Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

For subsequent registration of stillbirths, see entry 63.

Marriages

65. IKDEX TO MARRIAGES, MJILE - FEMALE, 1830—. 8 v. (1-4, male,
1830--; 1-4, female, 1830—).

Index to marriages, showing register number, names of male and female,
and book, page, and license numbers. Arr. alph. by names of male and
female. 1830-64, hdw.; 1865 — , hdw. under pr. hdgs. Writing faded,
paper poor. 150 p. 16 x 12 x l^-. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

66. MARRIAGE LICENSES (Original), 1830-1930. 132 bdl. 1931—
loose-leaf form bo\md in Register of Marriages (Record),
entry 68.

Original marriage licenses showing license nxzmber, names of bride, groom,
and parents, residence, occupation, age, place of birth, mother's maiden
name, number of marriages, where and by whom ma.rriod, signatures of wit-
nesses, and certificate of officiating officer. Arr. by license no.
For index, see entry 65. Hdw. on pr. fm. 4 x 4 x 10. Tax record rm. ,
bsmt .

67. iiMffilAGE REGISTER, 1830—. 9 v. (l. A, B, E-J) .

Register of marriages, showing license number, date, names of male and
female, date and by ?/hom married, acknowledgment, and dr.tes of return
and recordation. Arr. chron. For index, see entry 65. 1830-67, hdw.;
1868 — , hdw. under pr. hdgs. 253 p. 18 x 12 x 1. Co. clk.'s off., 1st
fl.

68. REGISTER OF MARRIAGES (Record), 1878—. 12 v. (1-12).
Record of marriages, using simple form 1878-1917, and board of health
form 1918-30, showing names of male, female, witnesses, and clerk, date,
license number, date and place of ceremony, by whom married, and dates of
return and registration of certificate. 1931 — record consists of
Marriage Licenses (Original) in loose-leaf form, entry 66. Arr. by
license no. For index, see entry 65. Hdw. on pr. fm. Writing faded.
600 p. 16 X 12 X 3. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 96 -
County Clerk - Licenses (69-73)

and Registers

69. APPLICATION FOR EAREI AGE LICENSE, 1883—. 46 v. (1-46).
Prior records cannot be found.

Applications for marriage licenses, showing date, application number,
names, addresses, ages, and oaths of applicants, name of county clerk,
and consent of parents for minors. Arr. by application no. Indexed
alph. by name of applicant. Hdw. on pr. fm. 600 p. 15-| x 11 x 2g.
V. 1-45, 1883-1935, southeast strm., bsmt.; v. 46, 1936™, co. elk. ' s
off., 1st fl.

Census

70. CENSUS OF INDUSTRY, AGRICULTURE AND PERSONS, 1855, 1870,
1880. 4 bdl. Discontinued. Records kept by Bureau of
Census, Washington, D. C.

Social statistics, enumeration census, census of agricultural products,
livestock, industrial products, and establishments of Knox County, taken
at intervals of ten and fifteen years, showing total number of inhabi-
tants, bushels of grain of each kind, number of each kind of animal, and
number of industries and their products. Arr. by sec, twp., ajid range.
No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 14 x 20 x 1^-. Clock tower rm. , 4th fl.

Licenses and Registers

Registers of Officers (See also
entry 103)

71. REGISTER OF OFFICERS, 1857--. 3 v. (l not numbered, 2, 3).
1830-56 in Proceedings of Board of Supervisors, Supervisors'
Reports and Record, entry 2.

Register of county officers elected, showing names of officers, sureties,
and office, amount of bond, dates of election, qualification, comiuis-
sion, and notarial acknowledgment. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by n^xic
of officer. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 250 p. 12 x 14 x 2. Co. clk.'s off.,
1st fl.

72. LISTS OF TOVfN OFFICERS, 1857--. 2 bdl., 2 f.b. 1835-56 in
Miscellaneous Records, entry 101.

Reports of election of township officers, showing names of officer elected
and sureties, title of office, date of election, ?jnount of bond, and date
of filing. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. Bdl. 9 x 4 x 12;
f.b. 9 X 4 X 12. Bdl., 1857-85, clock tower rm. , 4th fl.; f.b., 1886, co.
clk.'s off., 1st fl.

73. TOWNSHIP OFFICERS (Register), 1857~. 3 v.

Register of township officers, showing names of officers elected or ap-
pointed, address, length of term, and remarks. Arr. chron. No index.
Hdw. under pr. hdgs. Binding poor. 79 p. 14 x 16 x 1. 2 v., 1857-1907,
CO. clk.'s west strm., 4th fl.; 1 v., 1908--, co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.
For other records of township officers, see entries 72, 101.

- 97 -
County Clerk - Licenses (74-79)

and Registers

Professional Licenses
and Registers

74. MEDICAL REGISTER (Record), 1877—. 3 v.

Copies of certificates of physicians, osteopaths, and chiropodists, is-
sued by state board of health, showing certificate number, date, name
and address of physician, number of years in practice, date of diploma,
from what college, and date of recording. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by
name of professional. Hdw. on pr. fm. 200 p. 18 x 12 x 2. Co. elk. ' s
off., 1st fl.

75. PHYSICIANS' CERTIFICATE RECORD (Register), 1877—. 1 v. (l).
Prior records cannot be located.

Register of physicians', chiropodists', and osteopaths' certificates,
showing certificate niimber, college graduated from, ntune and address of
practitioner, certification of state board of health, and date of filing.
Also contains Record of Certificate of Veterinary Siirgeons to 1899,
entry 78, and Record of Certificates of Registered Nurses, 1877-1908,
1920 — , entry 80. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of practitioner. Hdw.
under pr. hdgs.; nurses' certificates hdv/. on pr. fm. 288 p. 18 x 12 x 2.
Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

76. DENTISTS' CERTIFICATE RECORD (Register), 1898—. 1 v. No
prior records.

Register of dentists, showing license number, name, residence, and
nativity of dentist, years of practice, and dates of license, diploma,
and filing. Arr. alph. by name of dentist. No index. Hdv^'. under pr,
hdgs. 200 p. 18 X 11 X 1. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

77. DENTAL CERTIFICATES, 1898—. 1 v. (l). Prior records cannot
be located.

Copies of dental certificates, shov/ing name of dentist, certificate number,

and dates of issue and filing. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of

dentist. Hdw. and typed on pr. fm. 160 p. 18 x 11 x 1. Go. clk.'s off.,
1st fl.

78. RECORD OF CERTIFICATE OF VETERINARY SURGEONS, 1900--. 1 v.

(1). Last entry 1907. 1877-99 in Physicians' Certificate Record

(Register), entry 75.
Register of veterinary surgeons' certificates, showing name and address
of veterinary, name of institution granting diploma, names of members of
licensing board, and dates of issue and filing. Arr. chron. Indexed
alph. by name of veterinary. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. Condition poor,
writing faded. 300 p. 18 x 12|- jc''2. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

79. REGISTRY OF ARCHITECTS, 1899-1917. 1 v. Discontinued.

Copies of architects' certificates, shoAving name and address of architect,
signature of board members, and dates of registry and filing. Arr.
chron. Indexed alph. by name of architect. Hdw. on pr. fm. 200 p.
13 X 8 X 1. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

County Clerk - Licenses (80-85)

and Registers

80. RECORD OF CERTIFICATES OF REGISTERED NURSES, 1909-19. 2 v.
(1, 2). 1877-1908, 1920— in Physicians' Certificate Record
(Register), entry 75.

Copies of nurses' certificates, showing name of nurse, education, qual-
ification, certificate numter, dates of issue and filing, and signatures
of meraters of toard of examiners. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of
nurse. Hdw. end. hdw. on pr. fm. 300 p. 18 x 12| x 2. Co. clk.'s off.,
1st fl.

Militia Roll (See also
entry 124)

81. MILITIA MUSTER ROLL AND AFFIDAVITS, 1861-63. 5 "bdl. Discontinued.
Record used for duration of Civil War only.

Lists of all men qualified for military service in Knox County and affi-
davits or proof of enlistment, showing names of township and volunteer,
and dates of affidavit and enlistment. Arr. alph. ty name of t\^'p. No
index. Hdw, Writing faded, paper poor. 6 x 24 x 8. Clock tower rm.,
4th fl.

Stallion Certificates (See also
entry 128)

82. PEDIGREES (Stallion Certificates), 1888-1915. 1 v.
Disoontinued. Certificates now registered ty State Board of
Agriculture, Division of Animal Husbandry, Springfield, Illinois.

Copies of certificates of registered stallions, showing najne and address
of owner, name, age, and "breed of sire, v/here stationed, certificate
numher, and date of registration. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. "by name of
owner. Hdw. on pr. fm. 160 p. 18 x 12 x 1. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Estrays, Marks and Brands

83. ESTRAY NOTICES, 1869-77. 1 "bdl. Discontinued.

Notices of estrays, showing description of animal and brands or marks,
"by whom taken up, and date. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm.
4x9x4. Clock tower rm., 4th fl.

84. ESTRAY RECORD, 1863--. 2 v. (A, B) .

Record of estrayed livestock, showing description of animal, where and "by
whom found, date, valuation as appraised "by local justice of peace or
magistrate, date of notice, and name of justice or police magistrate.
Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 157 p. 15 x 10 x li.
Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

85. LI"V:EST0CK MARKS - KNOX COUNTY, 1845—. 1 v. Last entry 1921.
Register of marks and "brands on livestock, showing description of marks
and "brands, kind of animal, name of owner, and date of recordation. Arr.
chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 175 p. Ok x 6h x 1. Co. clk.'s
off., 1st fl.

- 99 -
County Clerk - Elections (86-91)

33og License (See also
entries 28, 297)

86. DOG LICENSE BOOKS ML TAGS, 1923--. 5 f ."b.
Dog license receipts and tags shov/ing names of dog and ovmer, sex of dog,
amoiint of tax, and license tag number. Arr. chron. No index. Hdv;. on
pr. fm. 4 X 8 X 16 - Sk x 14 x 19. 4 f.b., 1923-27, northeast rm. ,
bsmt.; 1 f.b., 1928 — , co. clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

Elections
(See also entries 1, 103)

87. RECORD OF BALLOTS, 1892—. 2 v. 1830-91 in Proceedings of
Supervisors, Supervisors' Reports and Record, entry 2.

Record of ballots issued to toTmships and precincts, showing names of
precinct, township, and clerk, number of ballots, dates of delivery and
return, and by v^^hom returned. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr.
hdgs. 150 p. 14 x 12 X 2. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

88. COPY OF REPUBLICANS' REGISTER, 1926--. 6 bdl.

Copies of Republican register of voters, showing name and address of
voter, precinct number, and number of elections in which he has voted.
Arr. by precinct no. No index. Hdw. 9 x 12 x 1. Southeast strm., bsmt.

89. TABULATED STATEMENT OF VOTES, 1896-1908. 1 f.b. Prior and
subsequent records destroyed.

Newspaper clippings of official vote cf Knox County, showing name and
address of voter, precinct ntunber, and officers elected. Arr. chron.
No index. Printed. 16 x 12 x ^. Tax record rm., bsmt.

90. ELECTION PETITIONS, 1922-26. 1 bdl. Prior and subsequent
original petitions destroyed.

Original petitions of candidates for election, showing names of candidate
and office, names and addresses of qualified voters, and date of notariza-
tion. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. 5 x 9 x 24. Tax record rm., bsmt.

91. TALLY SHEETS AND POLL BOOKS, 1882. 2 bdl. Prior and subsequent
records destroyed.

Poll books, election returns, and tally sheets; poll books shov/ing line
number, name of voter, address, precinct, and ward; election returns
showing names of candidates and number of votes received; tally sheets
shov/ing number of votes cast for each candidate, and certification
by judges and clerks of election. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under
pr. hdgs. 9 X 4 X 12. Clock tov;er rm. , 4th fl.

- 100 -
County Clerk - Bonds of Officers; (92-97)

Fees, Receipts, and Expenditures

Bonds of Officers
(See also entries 1, 2, 72, 129, 248)

92. JUSTICES' OF THE PEACE AND CONSTABLES' BONDS, 1879—.
3 V. (l not numbered, 5, 6). Title varies: Justice
Official Bond.

Copies of bonds of justices of the peace and constables, shov/ing names
of justice or constable and sureties, date, amount, and conditions of
bond, notarial acknowledgment, and date of filing. Arr. chron. Indexed
alph. by name of principal. Hdw. on pr. fm. 412 - 440 p., 18 x 12 x 2.
Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

93. ASSESSORS' BOND RECORD, 1898—. 1 v. (A).

Copies of town assessors' bonds, showing names of assessor and sureties,
amount, date, and conditions of bond, notarial acknowledgment, and date
of filing. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of assessor. Hdw. on pr.
fm. 296 p. 18 X 12i X ^. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

94. RECORD OF COLLECTORS' BONDS, 1853-1918. 3 v. (1 not lettered,
B, C) . Discontinued.

Record of tovmship collectors' bonds, showing names of principal and
sureties, amount, date, and condition of bond, notarial acknowledgment,
and date of filing. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of principal.
1853-78, hdw.; 1879-1918, hdw. on pr. fm. 200 - 280 p. 12 x 9 x 1 -
18 X 12 X li. 1 v., 1853-78, west strm. , 4th fl.; v. B, 1879-1905,
cir. clk.'s strm., bsmt.; v. C, 1906-18, cir. clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

Pees, Receipts, and Expenditures

95. COUNTY CLERK'S JOURNAL, 1903—. 16 v. Prior records cannot
be located.

County clerk's record of receipts and disbursements of county funds showing
amounts received, by v/hom paid, purpose, date, to whom paid, on v;hat ac-
count, and amount. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 328 p.
14 X 12 X 1^. 14 v., 1903-30, tax record rm. , bsmt.; 2 v., 1931 — , co.
elk. 's off., 1st fl.

96. BIRTH AND DEATH REPORTS, 1902—. 4 v. (1-4).

County clerk's accounts with registrars of births and deaths, showing name
and address of registrar, number of births and deaths reported, order num-
ber, and amount and date paid. Arr. by order no. No index. Hdw. under pr.
hdgs. 300 p. 18 X 12 X 1^. V. 1-3, 1902-24, tax record rm., bsmt.; v. 4,
1925—, CO. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

For other records of birth and death reports, see entry 291.

97. RECEIPTS AND EXPENDITURES, 1897—. 7 v. (3-9). Prior records
cannot be located.

County clerk's daily record of miscellaneous and probate fees earned and
received, and office expenditures, showing date, from whom and amount re-
ceived, date and amount paid out, purpose, and balance available. Arr.
chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 328 - 700 p. 14 x 12 x It -
17 X 15 X 2|. V. 3-7, 1897-1918, tax record rm. , bsmt.; v. 8, 9, 1919 — ,
CO. elk. 's off., 1st fl.

- 101 -
County Clerk - Maps and Plats; (98-103)

Miscellaneous Records

Maps and Plats
(See also entries 100, 318)

98. SCHOOL PLATS, 1850-80. 3 bdl.

Certified plats of school districts, showing name of tovmship, school
district number, boundaries, legal description of school properties,
and date of filing. Arr. by sec. and range no. No index. 8-j x 4 x 2.
Clock tower rm., 4th fl.

99. SCHOOL PLATS, 1858—. 4 v.

School district plats showing name of township, section and school
district numbers, and locations of schools and boundaries at time of
annual report. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by najne of tvfp. Hdv/. on pr.
fm. 100 - 250 p. 9 X 6 X ^ - 18 X 12 X 1^-. Co. clk.'s off. annex,
1st fl.

Miscellaneous Records

100. (MISCELLANEOUS PAPERS), 1888-96. 1 bdl.

Tax levies, school and road plats, county treasurer's reports to beard

of supervisors, state board rates, and auditor's reports and correspondence,

Arr. chron. No index, Hdw. 12 x 9 x 4. Clock tower rm., 4th fl.

101. MISCELLANEOUS RECORDS, 1835-90, 1 f.b.

Published lists of delinquent taxes, old mortgages, tax statements of
real estate and personal property, and receipts for fees and fines col-
lected and disbursed. Also contains Lists of Tovm Officers, 1835-56,
entry 72. Arr. chron. No ixidex. Hdw. and hdw. on pr. fm. 10 x 13 x 17.
Southeast strm., bsmt,

102. COUNTY CLERK'S REPORTS AND ORDERS, 1897-1900, 1 bdl. 1830-
96, 1901 — in Proceedings of Board of Supervisors (Papers),
entry 1.

County clerk's orders, election expense accoxints, jury lists, report of
convention committee, and lists of election judges and clerks and of
justices and police magistrates elected. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw.
and hdw. on pr. fm. 1-^ x 4 x 8^^. Clock tower rm., 4th fl.

103. MISCELLANEOUS RECORD, 1900—. 4 v. (1-4).
Miscellaneous records, including assignments in estates, affidavits,
appointment and oaths of deputy sheriff and deputy county clerk, minutes
of board of school trustees, petitions for school trustees, election
petitions, school election notices, election returns, maps of consolidated
school districts, minutes of board of education, powers of attorney,
revocation of power of attorney, and oaths of sxirveyors. Arr. chron.
Indexed alph. by name of subject or principal. 1900-1930, hdw.; 1951 — ,
typed. 596 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 102 -

(Next entry 104, p. 104)

III. RECOHDER

The recorder of Knox County was originally appointed by the Governor
with the advice and consent of the senate.! His "bond, set at $1500, was to
be filed with the secretary of state. In 1829 the amount of bond v;as re-
duced to $500.2 The office became elective in 1835, for a fo\ir-year term,
and a bond was to be approved by the county commissioners' court. 3 The
term was reduced to tvro years in 1845.^ With the establishment of the
second constitution the office of recorder was abolished, the duties of
such office being delegated to the circuit court clerk in an ex-officio
capacity. 5 The present constitution reestablished the office of recorder
in counties having a population of 60,000 or more, but continued the pro-
vision of the prior constitution for other counties. 6 The population of
Knox County never having reached the minimum set by the Constitution, the
circuit court clerk has retained his ex-officio duties as recorder. The
amount of the recorder's bond was set at $5000 in 1872, and the county
judge was to give approval.''' This amount was raised in 1874 to $10,000
for counties having the population of Knox. A copy of the bond is entered
upon the records of the county clerk.

Assistants and deputies are appointed by the recorder in a number as
determined by a rule of the circuit court and as entered upon the court rec-
ord. 8 The compensation of the assistants and deputies is set by the coun-
ty board. Written oaths of deputies are filed with the secretary of state. 9

In accordance with the duty of the recorder to record at length all
written instruments, the following records are required to be kept:

1. An entry book in which data relating to date and
order of receipt of instruments to be recorded or
filed, and the names of parties and location of
property, with a brief description of the premises,
are entered. Each of such instruments is numbered
by the recorder with the corresponding number of
the entry. The entry book serves as a table of
contents, with descriptive memoranda, for all in-
struments recorded at length or filed in the re-
corder's office.

1. L.1819, p. 19.

2. L.1829, p. 117.

3. L.1855, p. 166.

4. L.1845, p. 28.

5. Constitution of 1848, Art.

6. Constitution of 1870, Art.

7. L.1872, p. 645.

8. Constitution of 1870, Art.

9. R.S.1874, p. 833.

V,

sec.

19; L.1B49,

P«

64.

X,

sec.

8; R.S.1874,

P-

, 833.

X,

sec.

9; R.S.1874,

P-

, 833.

- 103 -
Recorder (Next entry 104, p. 104)

2. Well-tGund books for recording at length any in-
strument in VTriting entitled to "be recorded, in
the order of time of its reception. Separate
books are allowed to be kept for the recording
of different classes of instruments and two dis-
tinct series of document mombers may be used for
recording documents received to be recorded. One
series preceded by the letter "B" is for the rec-
ordation of bills of sales of personal property,
chattel mortgages, releases, extentions, and
assignments thereof. The other series of docu-
ment numbers is for all other instruments re-
ceived for recordation.

3. Grantors' and grantees' indexes. In the gran-
tors' index are recorded the name of the grantor
in alphabetical order sind the name of the grantee.
The grantees' index shows the name of the grantee
in alphabetical order and the name of the grantor.
Each index also shows the date of the instrument,
time of receipt, kind of instrument, consideration,
book and page in v/hich it is recorded or the number
under which it is filed and a brief description of
the premises.

4. Indexes to each book of record in which are entered
in alphabetical order, the name of each grantor pjid
grantee and page in which the instrument is recorded.
This series indexes instruments such as powers of
attorney, chattel mortgages, and those recorded by
corporations.

5. An index to recorded maps and plats, based on location
of property. Sometimes arranged by section, tovmship,
and range.

6. An abstract book, in effect indexing records by show-
ing for each tract every conveyance or incumbrance re-
sorded, its execution and filing date, and the book and
page of its recordation. Series optional with county
board.

7. A separate book to record certificates of honorable
military, aviation, and naval discharges.!

1. L.1819, p. 18,20,21; R.L.1829, p. 116,117; L.1847, p. 69; L.1853,

p. 254; L.1867, p. 148; L.1869, p. 2; L. 1871-72. p. 645,646; L.1873,
p. 144; R.S.1874, p. 834-37; L.1917, p. 652; L.1925, p. 521; L. 1933-34.
Third Sp. Sess., p. 214.

- 104 -
Recorder - Entry Books (104-106)

The recorder, in recording at length any instrument in writing, is
permitted to make a handv/ritten or typev/ritten transcription of the same,
or he may make photographic or photostatic reproduction, or he may use a
combination of these methods of recordation.! In addition to the instru-
ments received for recordation, the recorder is required upon receipt to
file any instrument such as any mortgage, trust deed, or convey?jice of
personal property having the effect of a mortgage or lien upon such prop-
erty T/hich is endorsed with the v/ords, "This instrument to "be filed, but
not recorded." The recorder marks such instrument "filed" and enters the
time of receipt and files the same in his office. 2

Entry Books

104. ENTRY BOOKS, DEED ENTRY BOOKS, 1836--. 49 v. (1-49).
Entries of recorded instruments, showing date of entry, instrument and
entry numbers, names of grantor and grantee, date and kind of instru-
ment, record book and page of entry, consideration, legal description
of property, ajnount of fees, and to whom delivered. Arr. by entry no.

No index. 1836-55, hdw.; 1856—, hdw. under pr. hdgs. 600 p. 18 x 12 x 3.
Cir. clk.'s record rm., 1st fl,

105. LAND BOOK (Land Patents) , 1817-55. 1 v. Discontinued.

Land entry book shoviing name of patentee, instrument number, legal des-
cription of land, number of acres, and da.te of entry. First entries
antedate formation of cotinty by eight years. Arr. by instrument no.
No index. Hdw. Writing faded, paper poor. 240 p. 18 x 12 x 1. Cir.
clk.'s record rm., 1st fl,

106. LAND ENTRY BOOKS, 1819-46. 1 v. Discontinued.

Record of land patents and a few subsequent transfers of land includ-
ed in townships 3 to 8 north, and ranges 1 to 5 east of fourth P. M.
(Principal meridian), Illinois, (no name of county given), shov/ing
names of patentee, grantor, and grantee, instrument number, legal des-
cription of land, number of acres, and date of entry. This land extends
from the southwest corner of Knox County, south 36 miles and east 30
miles, First entries antedate formation of couiity by six years. Arr.
by instrument no. No index. Hdw. 250 p^ 13 x 8-g x It . Southeast
strm., bsmt.

1, L. 1933-34, Third Sp. Sess., p. 214.

2. L.1927, p. 521; L,1929, p. 592-94; L. 1933-34, Third Sp. Sess.,

p. 860.

- 105 -
Recorder - General Indexes (107-112)

General Indexes
(See also entries 132-135)

107. LAND INDEX, 1817—. 40 v.

Index to deeds, mortgages, and releases, shewing "book a.nd page of entry,
dates of instrument and filing, narncs of grantor and grantee, kind of
instrument, and remarks, Arr, "by sec, tv/p., and range. Land indexed
by sec; lots indexed by subdivisions. Hdw, under pr. hdgs. 600 p.
18 X 12 X 3. Cir. clk.'s record rm., 1st fl.

108. GENERAL INDEX, 1821--. 2 v. (l, 2).

Index to deed records, showing naines of grantor and grantee, kind of
instrument, record book and page of entry, date of recording, and re-
marks. Arr. alph. by names of grantor and grantee. Hd'.v. under pr.
hdgs. 360 p. 18 X 12 X 2. Gir. clk.'s record rm., 1st fl.

109. TRACT INDEX (Deed and Mortgage Index), 1817-83. 7 v.
(6 v., 1817-83; 1 v., 1817-58). Discontinued.

Index to deed and mortgage records, shov/ing date of filing, names of
grsmtor and grantee, kind of instrument, book and page of record, legal
description of property, and rsna-^ks. This index has been transcribed
into Land Index, entry 107, Arr. by sec, tv/p., and range, Hdw, under
pr. hdgs. Writing faded, paper poor, 225 - 640 p. 17 x 10 x 1 -

17 X 11 X 2. 6 v., 1817- 83, 'west strm., 4th fl.; 1 v., 1817-58, south-
east strn,, bsmt.

110. TRACT INDEXES, BLOCKS AND ADDITIONS TO CITY OF GALESBURG,
(Deed and Mortgage Index), 1838-1914. 6 v, (1, 1, 2, 2,
3, 3), Discontinued,

Index to instruments filed covering blocks and additions to city of
Galesburg, showing book and page of record, dates of instrument and
filing, names of grantor and grantee, and lot and block numbers, TLir.
index has been transcribed into Land Index, entry 107, Arr. alph. by
name of subdivision. Hdv;. under pr. hdgs. Writing faded, 450 p.

18 X 12 X 2|-, Southeast strm., bsmt.

111. LAND INDEX FOR TWP. 9N RANGE IE, 1820-82, 1 v. Discontinued,
Index to instruments filed for recording, showing book and page of rec-
ord, date. of filing, names of grantor and grantee, kind of instrument,
and remarks. This index has been transcribed into Land Index, entry 107.
Arr, by quarter sec, Hdv/. under pr. hdgs. Paper very poor. 400 p,

16 X 10 X 2. Cir. clk.'s record rm., 1st fl,

112. DEED INDEX, 1842-82, 6 v. Discontinued.

Index to deed records, showing names of grantor and grantee, lot, block,
book and page nTombers, kind of instrument, oxid. date of recording. This
index has been transcribed into General Index, entry 108. Arr. alph. by
name of grantee, Hdw, -under pr. hdgs. 30 o, 18 x 11 x ^. T/est strm.,
4th fl.

- 106 -
Recorder - Instruments (113-117)

Recorded

• 113. GENERAL INDEX, GRANT OR- GRJUTTEE, 1855-76. 4 v. Discontinued.
Index to deeds, showing names of grantor and grantee, description of prop-
erty, date of recording, and book and page of entry. This index has
been transcribed into General Index, entry lC3o Arr. alph. by names of
grantor and grantee. Hd':7. under pr. hdgs. 392 - 640 p. 16 x 10 x 2 -
18 X 12 X 3. Cir. elk. ' s record rm. , 1st fl.

Instruments Recorded
General (See also entry 142)

114. DEED RECORD, 1817—, 210 v. (A-H, 1-14, 14|, 15-18, 18^,
19-80, 82-163, 165, 167, 169-71, 174, 177, 184-92, 196, 197,
199-202, 205, 206, 208, 209, 213, 218, 225, 241, 251-53, 255,
256, 270, 283, 300 ) .

Recordation of all deeds, and mortgages not segregated by type, show-
ing dates, names of grantcr and grantee, consideration, legal descrip-
tion of property, affidavit of notary, and date of filing. Prior to
1830, records consist of transcriptions from records of other counties
for lands now part of Knox County. Also contains QjJiitclaim Deed Record,
1817-68, entry 115; Master's Deed Record, 1817-96, entry 116; Warranty
Deed Record, 1817-1900, entry 117; and Mortgages (Mortgage Record), 1817-38,
entry 118, including Release Records and Chattel Mortgages $ entries 120
and 121. Arr. chron. For index, 1817—, see entry 107; for grantor-
grantee index, 1821 — , see entry 108. 1817-71, hdw. : 1872-1925, hdw.
on pr. fm. ; 1926 — , typed. 480 - 640 p. 14 x 10 x 2-| - 18 x 12 x 3.
Cir. elk. 's record rm. , 1st fl.

Deeds (See also entry 142)

115. QUITCLAIM DEED RECORD, 1869--. 19 v. (81-301, not consecutive).
1817-68 in Deed Record, entry 114.

Copies of quitclaim deeds, showing names of grantor and grantee, legal
description of property, consideration, and date of filing. Arr. chron.
For index, see entry 108. Typed on pr. fm. 480 - 640 p. 14 x 10 x 2;j -
18 X 12 x 3. Cir. elk. ' s record rm. , 1st fl.

116. MASTER'S DEED RECORD, 1897—. 4 v, (166, 195, 248, 299).
1817-96 in Deed Record, entry 114.

Copies of master in chancerj'- deeds, showing names of grantor, grantee,
and master, legal description of property, oonsideration, and date of
filing. Arr. chron. For index, see entry 108. Hdw. and typed on pr.
fm, 480 - 640 p. 14 x 10 x 2^ - 18 x 12 x 3. Cir. elk. 's record rm, ,
1st fl.

117. WARRAI^TY DEED RECORD, 1901—. 44 v. (175-296, not consecutive).
1817-1900 in Deed Record, entry 114.

Recordation of warranty deeds, showing names of grantor and grantee,
legal description of property, consideration, and date of filing. .Arr,
chron. For index, see entry 108. Hdw. and typed on pr. fm. 480 -
640 p. 14 X 10 X 3 - 18 X 10 X 2^. Cir. elk. 's record rm. , 1st fl.

- 107 -
Recorder — Instruments (118—122)

Recorded

Mortgages - Real Property (See
also entries 36, lOl)

118. MORTGAGES (Mortgage Record), 1839—. 157 v. (1-157).
1817-38 in Deed Record, entry 114.

Recordation of real estate mortgages, showing names of mortgagor, mort-
gagee, and witnesses, instrument numter, date, amount, description of
property, and notarial acknowledgment. Also contains Release Records,
1839-65, entry 120, and Chattel Mortgages, 1839-51, entry 121. Arr.
chron. For index, 1839 — , see entry 107; for sep. index, 1839-83, s$e
entry 109; for sep. index, 1839-86, see entry 119. 1839-67, hdw. ; 1868—,
hdw. on pr. fm. 640 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Cir. elk. 's record rm. , 1st fl.

119. INDEX BOOKS, 1839-86. 11 v. Discontinued.

Index to mortgage records, showing names of mortgagor and mortgagee,
date, lot, block, and book and page numbers. This index supplanted by
Land Index, entry 107. Arr. alph. by names of mortgagor and mortgagee.
Hdw. 150 p. 18 X 12 X 1. West strm. , 4th fl.

120. RELEASE RECORDS, 1866--,. 37 v. (A-Z, l-ll). 1817-38 in Deed
Record, entry 114; 1839-65 in Mortgages (Mortgage Record),
entry 118.

Recordation of mortgage releases, showing names of mortgagor and mortgagee,
date, book and page of entry, certificate of satisfaction and release,,
notarial acknowledgment, and date of filing. Arr. chron. For index, see
entry 107, Hdw. on pr. fm. Writing faded. 500 p. 18 x 12 x 2|-. Cir,
elk, 's record rm. , 1st fl.

Mortgages - Chattel

121. CHATTEL MORTGAGES, 1852—. 119 v. (1-118, 1852—; 1 not num-
bered, 1903-6). Title varies: Record Book Chattel Mortgages.
1817-38 in Deed Record, entry 114; 1839-51 in Mortgages (Mort-
gage Record) , entry 118.

Recordation of chattel mortgages, shov/ing instrument number, date, names
of mortgagor and mortgagee, consideration, list of property, terms of
mortgage, rate of interest, and notarial acknowledgment. Arr. chron.
For index, see entry 122; 1903-6 also indexed alph. by names of mortgagor
and mortgagee. 1852-63, hdw.; 1864-1916, hdw. on pr. fm. ; 1917—, typed,
200.- 640 p.. 13 X 8|- X li - 18 X 12i x 3. V. 1-62, 1852-1910, 1 not
numbered, 1903-6, southeast strm., bsrat.; v. 63-118, 1911 — , cir. elk, 's
off., 1st fl.

122. CHATTEL MORTGAGE INDEX, 1852—. 7 v. (1-7).

Index to chattel mortgages, shov/ing names of mortgagor and mortgagee,
instrument number, date, and book and page of record. Arr. alph. by
names of mortgagor and mortgagee. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 350 p.
18 X 12 X 2. V. 1-4, 1852-1918, southeast strm., bsmt.; v. 5-7, 1919 — ,
cir. elk, ' s record rm. , 1st fl.

- 108 -
Recorder - Instruments (123-127)

Recorded

Certificates of Levy

123. CERTIFICATION OF LEVY, SALE, AND REDET.IPTION, 1842--. 5 v.
(A-E).

Copies of sheriff's certificates of Icv^,', sale, ajid redenption, show-
ing term date, names of plaintiff, defendant, and sheriff, date and
time of sale, legal description of property, amount, date of sale or
redemption, and date of filing. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by names
of plaintiff and defendant. Hdw. on pr. fm. 640 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Cir.
clk.'s record rm., 1st fl.

Other Instrvimcnts (Sec also entry 142)

124. SOLDIERS' AI^D SAILORS' DISCHARGE RECORD, 1865—. 4 v. (3 not
numbered, 2).

Copies of certificates of discharge of soldiers and sailors, showing
serial number, name of soldier or sailor, rank, organization, reasons
for and date of discharge, date and place of birth, age at enlistment,
occupation, physical description, signature of commanding officer, re-
cord of service, and date of filing. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by
name of soldier or sailor. 1865-1931, hdv;. on pr. fm.; 1932 — , typed
and hdw. on pr. fm. 640 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

125. ITAIvIES OF LANDS, 1895—. 1 v. (l).

Register of farm names, showing names of farm and ovmer, address,
legal description, and instrument number. Arr. alph. by name of ovmer.
No index. Hdw. under pr . hdgs. 480 p. 15 x 17 x 2^. Cir. clk.'s off.,
1st fl.

126. FEDERAL LAND BAl^IK AFFIDAVITS, 1919—. 1 v. (l). Prior records
cannot be located.

Copies of Federal land banl: affidavits, showing name of affiant, date
of affidavit as to undisputed and peaceful possession of land for 20
years or more, and of cultivation and proof of same, and dates of ac-
knowledgment and filing. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 640 p,
18 X 12 X 3. Cir. clk.'s record rm., 1st fl.

12 7. FEDERiJ. TiOC LIEN NOTICES AND CERTIFICATE OF DISCHj^JIGE, 1923—.
1 V.

Federal tax lien notices and certificate of discharge, showing document
and collector's serial numbers, name of residence of taxpayer, date of
notice, amount of tax and penalty imposed, nature of claim, description
of property, filing foe, book and page of record, and date ■ of filing.
Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of defendant. Hdw. 150 p.
12 X 6 X 1. Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 109 -
Recorder - Special Tract (128-132]

Indexes

128. STALLION REGISTER, 1910-17. 3 v. (1-3). Discontinued,
Record now kept by State of Illinois Department of Agriculture,
Division of Animal Husbandry, Springfield, IllinoiSo

Register of certificates issued and renewed for stallions used for
commercic?.l "breeding purposes, showing names of owner and stallion, reg-
istration number, location or residence of owner, and dates of
certificate and registration. Arr. chron. Indexed alph, by name of
owner. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 300 p. 18 x 12 x 1^. Southeast strra.,
bsmt.

For stallion certificates kept by county clerk, see entry 82.

129. TOWNSHIP COLLECTORS' BONDS, 1872-1918. 4 v. (2 not lettered,
B, C). Tov/nship collectors discontinued in 1918.

Copies of township collectors' bonds, showing names of principal and
sureties, date, amount, and conditions of bond, acknowledgment, and
dates of filing, and approved by township supervisor and tov;n clerk.
Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of principal. Hdw. on pr. fm.
250 p. 18 X 12 X 2. 2 v. not lettered, v. B, 1872-1905, southeast
strm., bsmt.; v. C, 1906-18, cir. clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.
For prior records, see entry 94.

130. ABSTRACTS TOWN PROPERTY, KNOX CO., 1835-61. 1 v. Discontinued.
Record of transfers of town lots, showing description of property con-
veyed, names of town, grantor and grantee, dates of deed and filing,
record book and page number, consideration, and remarks. This record
transcribed into Land Index, entry 107, Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by
name of town. Hdv/. under pr. hdgs. Binding poor. 502 p. 21 x 15 x 2^.
Southeast strra., bsmt.

131. jffiSTRACTS, 1817-33. 3 v. (1-3). Discontinued.

Record of land transfers, showing date of transfer, names of grantor and
grantee, address, and legal description of land. This record transcribed
into Land Index, entry 107. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. Writing faded,
paper poor. 635 p. 18 x 12 x 2^-. Southeast strm,, bsmt.

Special Tract Indexes
(See also entries 107-113)

132. LAND INDEX GALESBURG TWP. 11 N. IE., 1858—. 1 v.
Index of entries affecting titles to real estate, showing book and page
of record, dates of instrument and filing, names of grantor and grantee,
kind of instrument, and remarks. Plats precede section for the entries
affecting same. Arr. by quarter sec. Hdw. under pr, hdgs. 500 p, 18 x
12 X 3. Cir. clk.'s record rm., 1st fl.

- 110 -
Recorder - Maps and (133-138)

Plats

133. TRACT INDEX, LOTS AND BLOCKS, CITY OF GALESBURG, 1838—,
4 V. (1-4).

Index to entries affecting title to lots and tlocks for "blocks 1 to 122,
showing "book and page of record, dates of instmment and filing, names
of grantor and grantee, lot and "block numbers, kind of instrioment, and
remarks. Arr. "by "block no. Hdw, under pr, hdgs. 400 p. 18 x 12 x 2.
Cir. clk.'s record rm., 1st fl.

134. TRACT INDEX (Additions to City of Gales"burg), 1842—.
6 V. (1-6).

Index to entries affecting title to lots and "blocks in additions to city
of Gales'burg, showing "book add page of record, dates of instrunent
filing, names of grantor and grantee, lot and "block num'bers, kind of in-
strtiment, and remarks. Arr. alph. "by name of subdivision, Hdw. under
pr. hdgs. 550 p, 18 x 12 x 3. Cir, clk.'s record rm,, 1st fl.

135. INDEX TO LOTS AND TRACTS IN TOWNS OUTSIDE CITY OF GALESBLIRG,
1851—. 1 V.

Index to transfer of lots and tracts, showing names of grantor and grantee,
lot, "block, book and page numbers, and date of filing. Preceding the,
entries for each town is a plat showing the original tovm with lot and
block numbers. Arr. alph. by name of town. Hdw, under pr, hdgs. 640 p,
18 X 12 X 2. Cir. clk.'s record rm. , 1st fl.

Maps and Plats

136. KNOX COUNTY, 1865. 1 map.

Political map showing 20 townships each in 36 sections, v/ith names of
township and owners of land, school district and section numbers, ceme-
teries, railroads, electric railroads, churches, and public highways,
Peoria, Illinois: W. A. Howat & Son, publisher. Printed. 1-g- in. to
1 mi. 56 X 43. Cir. clk.'s record rm. , 1st fl,

137. MAPS OF KNOX COUNTY, 1838—. 17 v.

Political maps of Ifcox County, showing counties and population according
to census, locations of railroads and cornerstones, names of streets,
dimensions, block numbers, and number of acres. Artist, T. J, Bonderer,
Galesburg, Illinois. Printed, -g in, to 1 mi. 16^ x 14^ x 1. Cir,
clk.'s record rm., 1st fl.

138. GOVERNMENT SURVEYS, 1855. 1 v.

Plats of original government surveys, showing legal description, scale,
date, name of surveyor, locations of corners and corners of section,
witness trees, inches diameter, courses they bear, links distant, and num-
ber of acres. 1 in, to 40 links. Arr. by sec, twp. , and range. Indexed
by twp. and range. 100 p. 18 x 14 x 2-|. Cir. clk.'s record rm. , 1st fl.

- Ill -

Recorder - Fees; (139-142)

Miscellaneous Records

139. CITY OF GALESBURG, AND PARTS OF SECTIONS 4, 12, 21, 23 and 24
IN GALESBURG TOMSHIP, 1931. 1 map.
Physical map of city of Galesburg and of parts of sections 4, 12, 21, 23,
and 24 in Galesburg township, showing names of streets, additions, and
subdivisions, block and lot numbers, parks, cemeteries, railroads, dim-
ensions of lots and blocks, college grounds, and location of principal
buildings. Author, A. L. Richey, engineer, Galesburg, Illinois. 1 in»
to 300 ft. 60 X 62. Cir. elk. 's record rm. , 1st fl.

Fees
(See also entry 259)

140. CASH BOOK, 1894—. 15 v. (3 not numbered, 11-22). Prior rec-
ords cannot be located.
Cash book of fees received for recording, showing date, instrument num-
ber, record book and page of entry, and amount received. Arr. chron.
No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 500 p. 18 x 125- x 3. Cir. clk.'s
off., 1st fl.

Miscellaneous Records

141. UNCALLED FOR DOCUMEITTS, 189C— . 3 f.b. Prior records cannot
be located.

Miscellaneous recorded instruments not called for by owner, showing
names of parties, . instrument number, kind of instrument, legal descrip-
tion of property, consideration, date and time of recording, and book
and page of entry. Arr. alph. by name of owner. No index. 9 x 5 x 13.
Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

142. MISCELLANEOUS RECORDS, 1897—. 34 v. (164-294 not consecutive).
Miscellaneous records, including copies of agreements, by-laws of corpo-
rations, petitions to probate will, petitions in chancery, affidavits,
leases, wills, amendments to charter and by-laws, powers of attorney,
proposals to form corporations, miscellaneous deeds, including deeds for
right of Tray for public roads, showing names of principal, grantor and
grantee, instrument number, consideration, and dates of instrument and
recording. Arr. chron. For index to deeds, see entry 107; other rec-
ords not indexed. 1897-1910, hdw.; 1911 — , typed. 640 p. 18 x 12 x 3,
Cir. clk.'s record rm., 1st fl.

- 112 -

(Hext entry 143, p. 119)

rV. COUNTY COURT

The county court serves as the judicial branch of county government.
This court is administered by the county judge who is elected for a four-
year term by the county •electorate. Before entering upon the duties of
his office, the couaity judge is required to take and subscribe to an oath
which he files with the secretary of state. The compensation of the Knox
county judge was originally set at tvro dollars and fifty cents per dien
for holding court, which was paid quarterly out of the county treasury, 1
Today, the judge in this county receives §2,250 per annum, ^ The court
hears and determines matters in which it has original or concurrent jur-
isdiction, including appeals from the justices of the peace and police
magistrates,^

The powers of the judiciary in I{nox were originally administered only
by the justices of the peace, police magistrates, the probate justice, and
the circuit court during the first nineteen years of the county's history.
Then, a civil and criminal court with jurisdiction coextensive with the
county lines, was established under the provisions of the Constitution of
1848 and the legislation of 1849,"* The court created was the county
court. This unit of cotjnty government was established vrith a partial re-
version to the dual, administrative and judicial, function of the local
judiciary in Illinois under the Territorial Lav/s prior to 1818, The
court vj-as different from the territorial courts in that its composition
varied for each of the two functions. The judicial court Yra.s adminis-
tered by the court judge, who was elected by the county electorate and
commissioned by the Governor, His original foiir-year tenure of office
has remained effective to the present day,^ As the governing body, the
court was made up of the county judge and two justices of the peace.

Under the second constitution complete separation of county business
powers from the judicial could be had with the acceptance by the county
electorate of an independent administrative body, the board of supervisors,
established under tovmship organization. This plan of govex'nmcnt was not
selected immediately, cjid Itnox v/as governed by the dual county court imtil
1853, when the county board of supervisors became successor to the comity
court in its jurisdiction over coi.mty affo.irs and business. From this date
on, the county court has served only as a judicial court in Knox County,

1, L,1849, p. 62,63,

2, L.1925, p, 398; L,1933, p, 616,

3, R, 5,1874, p, 339; L.1881, p, 70,

4, Constitution of 1848, Art, V, sec. 16; L.1849, p, 62.

5, L,1849, p, 64; R .3,1874, p, 359; L,1955, p, 451,

- 113 -
County Court (Next entry 143, p. 119)

The county court as established in 1849, v/as vested vfith the same civil
and criminal jurisdiction as the justices of the peace. The county judge
\Tas made conservator of the peace for the county. He ivns given the same
power and authority as the circuit court, in preserving order, in the court
and punishing contempts offered the court Virhilc in session,-'- Suits for
sale of delinquent lands for taxes of 1848, and prior years, could be
brought and presented in either the circuit or county cou;^t, but for taxes
of subsequent years, the county court Viras given exclusive original juris-
diction,^

In addition to its civil and criminal jurisdiction, the court was
vested -with all the powers and jurisdiction in probate matters which were
vested prior to this date in tlie court of the probate justice. In its
probate function, the court -was given concurrent jurisdiction with the
circuit court ,3 in Knox County the county judge has served to the present
day in his ex-officio capacity as judge of the probate court.

The law jurisdiction of the county court in Knox County from 1874 to
the present, is concurrent with that of the circuit court in that class
of oases, first, wherein the justices of the peace have jurisdiction where
the value of the amotmt in controversy does not exceed one thousand
dollars;^ second, in all cases of appeals from justices of the peace and
police magistrates; third, in all criminal offenses and misdemeanors where
the punishment is not imprisonment in the penitentiary or death, 5 Also
the county court has original jurisdiction in matters relating to indigent
mothers," and jurisdiction over the persons of insane persons not charged
with crime. The authority for appointment of conservators for the estate
of insane persons is vested in the probate court ."^

In Knox County the county and circuit courts have original jurisdic-
tion in juvenile court matters. This jurisdiction is over matters dealing
vri.th dependent, neglected, and delinquent children. The authority in-
cludes provision for the treatment, control, maintenance, adoption and
guardianship of such children, °

In this class of cases the juvenile probation officer functions as an
assistant of the county court in the administration of justice. Provision

1, L.1849, p. 65j L,1859, p. 99; R ,3,1874, p, 339; L,1955, p, 451,

2, L.1849, p. 127.

3, L.1849, p, 65; L.1859, p, 99.

4, Under the la.Y/3 of 1872, the jurisdiction "vvas in cases not exceeding
$500, The revised lav^s of 1874, and subsequent legislation extended
the jurisdiction to cases wherein the amount involved vro.s not over
$1000, L,1933, p, 449,452, An cjnendment to the act of 1874 T/as
passed on Mo.y 8, 1933, which C3ctendcd the jurisdiction to $2000 and
the amendment of the scjnc session passed June 21, 1933, pla.ccd the
jurisdiction in cases where the amount involved is not over OlOOO,

5, R.S.1874, p. 339; L.1877, p, 77; L,1935, p, 448,

6, L,1913, p, 127; L.1915, p. 243; L.1921, p, 164; L.1934, p. 256,

7, L.1895, p, 140,

8, L.1899, p. 131; L.1901, p, 141; L.1905, p. 152; L,1907, p. 70; L.1925,
p. 187.

- 114 -
County Court (Nest entry 143, p. 119)

was first made for a probation officer under the laws of 1899. This legis-
lation provided for the appointment of probation officers by the court to
serve without compensation from the public treasury and at the pleasure of
the court. In 1905 this provision was changed and the probation officer
was compensated at a rate fixed by the court not in excess of the statutory
limitation. Today in Knox County the rate of compensation is set at not
less than eight hundred and fifty dollars nor more than nine hundred dol-
lars a year. If more than one juvenile probation officer is appointed, one
is designated the chief probation officer, who is to have one year's active
experience in social welfare work.

The officer under consideration makes investigation on order of the
court and takes charge of the child before and after the trial. He is re-
quired to be present at the court hearings in order that he may represent
the interest of the child. This officer also furnishes information and as-
sistance as required by the court.

Upon petition filed with the clerk of the court for the removal of a
neglected or dependent child from the custody of its parent(s) or guardian,
process is issued for appearance. The said summons may be served by the
sheriff or the duly appointed probation officer.

At any time after the filing of the petition and pending the final dis-
position, the court may allow the child to remain in the possession of its
custodian, or in its home subject to the visitation of the probation offi-
cer; or the child may be ordered in custody of the probation officer.-'- If
upon hearing the case the court finds the child to be dependent or neglect-
ed, the court may commit the child to an association or institution, or
allow the child to remain in his home subject to the visitation of the pro-
bation officer. 2 In a similar fashion the probation officer for adults, an
appointee of the circuit court, assists the county court in the administra-
tion of justice among adult violators.

In cases of delinquency, if the court finds any child to be delinquent,
the court may commit the child to an institution or to the custody of the
probation officer. The court may, upon its discretion, send juvenile of-
fenders and vagrants to the state reform school rather than the county
jail. "5 Appeals may be taken in any of these classes of juvenile cases to
the circuit court. "^

1. L.1907, p. 74; L.1911, p. 126; L.1923, p. 181.

2. L.1899, p. 133; L.1901. p. 141; L.1905, p. 152; L.19C7, p. 73,74; L.1911,
p. 126; L.1925, p. 187.

3. L.1899, p. 134; L.1901, p. 141; L.1905, p. 153; L.1907, p. 75; L.1925,
p. 187.

4. L.1899, p. 131; L.1901, p. 141; L.1923, p. 180.

- 115 -
County Court (llext entry 143, p, 119)

Another probation officer, also an appointee of the county court as-
sists the court in mothers' pension cases. The state and coiinty funds for
indigent mothers and their children are administered by the county court,
its appointed probation officer(s), the county board, with the assistance
of the county clerk, the county treasurer, and the state department of
public welfare. The county court, however, is given original jurisdiction
in these matters.

A mother whose husband is dead or incapacitated, or who is abandoned
by her husband is entitled to the benefits of the mothers' pension fund.
Such mother in need may file an application with the county court for re-
lief. The case of the applicant is then investigated by the probation
officer under the direction of the court.

A report and recommendation of the approval .or disapproval of such ap-
plication is then made by this officer to the court. If the application
is approved, the probation officer or other person may file with the clerk
of the said court, a written petition verified by affidavit setting forth
the facts giving the court jurisdiction and other frets upon which an or-
der for relief is entered. Upon receipt of the petition a summons is
issued to the mother and the county board for appearance. The usual pro-
cedure is for the board to make a written appearance. Upon the hearing
in court, the court may make an order upon the county board to pay monthly
such money as may be necessary for the care of the mother and her child or
children in accordance with the provisions of law.

To carry out this procedure, the county court appoints the probation
officer who serves during the pleasure of the court and is compensated
for his services by the county board. As noted above, this officer in-
vestigates all applications for relief and makes a written report to the
court. In addition to this duty, the probation officer makes quarterly
visits and supervises, under the direction of the court, the families to
which such assistance has been granted. 2 The rate of compensation is set
by the county board.

The county board annually levies a tax on all taxable property to
provide for the mothers' pension fund. The levy is made not in excess of
two-thirds of one mill on a dollar in Knox County,^ Also the General
Assembly makes appropriations from time to time to the state department
of public welfare which is distributed to the several counties as a part

1. L,1915, p. 127; L.1915, p. 243; L.1921, p. 164; L.1935, p. 256.

2. L,1953, p. 194; L.1935, p. 256,

3. L.1919, p. 780,781; L.1927. p. 196,197; L.1928, Sp. Sess. , p. 3;
L.1933, p, 194.

- 116 -
County Court (Next entry 143, p. 119)

of the pension fund. To become entitled to the state appropriation, the
county must meet the standards of administration set by the state agency.
The county treasurer certifies to the state department an itemized state-
ment attested by the county clerk, of the money paid out in accordance
with the legislative provisions for this pension beginning July 1, 1935,
and also the total assessment and levy, beginning as of this period, for
this purpose,-'-

Jurisdiction in the election procedure is vested variously in the
county board, the county court, and the county clerk. The Knox county
court performs an important fixnction in this procedure. In each city,
village and incorporated tovm, there is a board of election commissioners
composed of three appointees of the county court who serve alternately
for three-year term-s."^ The election boards have authority and are charged
with the organization of election districts and precincts, the appointment
of judges and clerks of election, provision for election ballots, and the
application of the rules and regulations for permanent registration and
elections ."5 The county court has original jurisdiction in election con-
tests for certain comity, district, and toifmship offices."^

The county officers electoral board aids in questions arising in the
course of the election procedure. This body consists of the county judge
who is chairman of the board, the county clerk and the state's attorney .5

The several nomination papers for county offices are filed with the
county clerk and are considered valid unless objections are made within
five days after the last day for filing such papers. Objections to nomi-
nations are made to the county officers electoral board for any office of
the county, park district or other division coterminous or less than the
county and other than a city, village, incorporated tovm or tovmship.^

The objectors' petition is filed with the oovnty clerk %Tho presents
the same together with the nomination papers or certificate before the
electoral board.' The petition contains the objector's name, residence,
nature of objection, and interest of objector and the relief sought of the
board, 8 A notice of the hearing is sent to the candidato. Upon hearing of
the objections the majority decision of the board is final. In the event
one of the members of the board is a candidate to the office objected to.

1. L.1935, p. 256.

2. LjJ8a5, p. 142; L.1899, p. 157; L_._1917, p. 445; L._l_929_, p. 399; L.1933,
p, 534; 1,1935-36, Fourth Sp. Sess.^p". 33,

3. Ibid.

4. L.1895, p, 170,

5. L.1891, p. 110; L,1935, p, 552,

6. L.1891, p. 110,111; U19^, p, 394.

7. L.1891, p. Ill; L. 1929'," p. 394; L.1935, p. 552.

8. L.1929, p, 394,395.

- 117 -
County Court (Next entry 143, p. 119)

then the circuit Judge is required to fill the place on the board, -'-

Housing corporations may be organized in Illinois for the express pur-_
pose of improving housing conditions under an act of 1933. "^ Such corpora-
tions are subject to the supervision and control of the state housing board.
This state agency has authority, after investigations and public hearings,
to approve the acquisition of property and construction of housing projects.
If the state housing board approves a project over the objections of ten
percent of the property owners within a mile, but not included in the
project,. it must then file an application with the clerk of the county
court to be submitted to the county judge for the confirmation of its
approval. Such application is to contain copies of the finding and order
of the board, transcript of the testimony, description of the project and
public spaces, statement of location, and reasons of approval by board.
The objectors to the project may file objections to the confirmation of
such project. The county judge is then to examine the application, objec-
tions, and any additional evidence before rendering a decision of
"approval" or "not approval" of the application. "^

Appeals from the judgments and decisions of the county court may be
taken to the circuit court. To the appellate court or supreme court may
be taken and prosecuted appeals and writs of error in proceedings for the
sale of lands for taxes and special assessments, and in all common law and
attachment cases, and cases of forcible detainer and forcible entry and de-
tainer. Such appeals and ^nrits of error are, when not otherwise provided,
taken and prosecuted in the same manner as appeals and writs of error from
the circuit court, 5

The records of the county court are kept by its clerk. In Knox County
the county clerk is ex-off icio clerk of the county court. In addition to
the statutory records described below the clerk necessarily maintains others
in effecting the court's orders.

For the court, the clerk keeps the follov/ing records:

1, Books of record of the proceedings and judgments of the
court, with alphabetical indexes by names of parties.
Proceedings are recorded at length only in cases desig-
nated by law, or when the court, at the motion and as-
sumption of expenses by one of the parties, so orders.
In practice, the court record has been broken down from
an early date into segregated types of proceedings and
judgments.

1. L,1953, p. 552,

2. L,1933, p. 396; L. 1933-34, Third Sp. Sess. , p. 167.

3. Ibid,

4. R.5.1874, p. 339; L,1933, p. 396,

5. R.S.1874, p. 339; L.1877, p. 77; L.1881, p. 66.

6. The form Avhich such records take is generally determined by court order.
L.1849, p. 66; R.S.1874, p. 263,

- 118 -
County Court (Next entry 143, p. 119)

2. "Plaintiff-Defendant Index to Court Records" and
"Defendant-Plaintiff Index to Court Records." In-
tended to be separate records, but frequently com-
bined in a single volume with the two indexes seg-
regated in each volume.

3. A general docket, in which all suits are entered
in the order they are commenced.

4. A judgment and execution docket, containing a col-
umn for the entry of satisfaction or other disposi-
tion. In practice an execution docket is frequently
set up independently.

5. Additional dockets, designated as the clerk's, judge's
and bar docket. In practice, the bar docket has
tended to drop out of use.-'-

6. A fee book, in which costs and fees are to be entered
under the proper title of the cause. In practice
separate series of volumes are maintained under these
titles of causes.

7. Transcripts of proceedings in appeals from justices'
courts, dockets thereof, and transcripts of judgment
for liens, etc., from justices' courts.

8. Naturalization records, including petitions, proceed-
ings, final certificates, etc. The county courts in
Illinois prior to 1906 met the requirement of Federal
Statutes to exercise naturalization j\irisdiction.2

9. Original documents used in court hearings and determi-
nations; of particular importance in the large number
of cases where complete proceedings are not spread on
court record. 3

10. Monthly reports of the warden of the county jail con-
taining a list of all prisoners in his custody, and
showing the cause of commitment and persons by whom
committed. 4

1. The Civil Practice Act of 1933 grants authority to county courts, sub-
ject to rules promulgated by the supreme court and not inconsistent
with statutory requirements, to m^ke such rules as they mo-y deem ex-
pedient, regulating dockets and ca,londars of said court. L.1933,

p. 785, sec. 2.

2. U.S.S.1802. p. 153; U.S.R.S.1874, p. 378.

3. R.S.1845, p. 57,323,324,414,418,419; L.1865, p. 79,80; L. 1871-72,

p. 325; R.S.1874, p. 262,263,339; L.1877, p. 77; L.1933, p. 448,451;
U.S.S.1802, p. 153-55; U.S.R.S.1874, p. 378-80; U.S.S.1906, p. 598-607;
U.S.S.1915. p. 736-38; U.S. 1926, p. 709,710.

4. R.S.1874. p. 616; L.1933, p. 677.

" 119 -
County Court - Proceedings (143-149)

of Court

Proceedings of Court

143. COUNTY COURT FILES, 1872—. 110 f.t. (722-24, 766-865, 915-21).
Files of county court common lav: and criminal cases, including summonses,
subpoenas, . instructions to Jury, affidavits of nitnesses, writs, bond?,
indictments, and sheriff's papers. Arr. by case no. Hdw. and typed.

9 X 4 X 12. Co. elk. 's off., 1st fl.

144. INDEX TO COUNTY COURT FILES, 1872--. 1 v.

Index to county court files, showing ca$e number, nam^s of. plaintiff and
defendant, and file box number. Arr. alph. by names of plaintiff and
defendant, Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 600 p. 15 x 16 x 3|-. Co. elk. 's off,,
1st fl,

145. COUNTY COURT RECORD, 1872—. 13 v. (1, 2, 2-12).

Record of county court cases, showing date, case number, names of plain-
tiff, defendant, petitioners, witnesses, and attorneys, nature of case,
court's orders, and remarks. Includes record of probations granted, and
default, confession, recognizance, and transcript records. Also contains
Insane Record by Commission, 1872-80, entry 147, and Voluntary Assign-
ment Record^ 1872-77, entry 149. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of
plaintiff; for sep. index, see entry 146. 1872-35, hdw,; 1886—, typed.
635 p. 18 X 12| X 3. Co. elk. 's off., 1st fl.

146. INDEX TO CASES OF COUNTY COURT (Plaintiff-Defendant) 1872—. 3 v.
Index to county court cases, showing case and docket numbers, names of
plaintiff and. defendant, and book and page of record. Arr. alph. by names
of plaintiff and defendant. Hdw. 100 p. 12 x 8 x ^. 2 v. , 1872-1923,
tax record rm. , bsmt.; 1 v., 1924 — , co. elk. 's off., 1st fl,

147. INSANE RECORD BY COMMISSION, 1881—. 8 v. (A-H). Title varies:
Insane Record. 1872-80 in County Court Record, entry 145.

Record of insanity and feeble-minded cases, showing names of petitioner,
patient, examining physician, judge, and Jurors, dates of petition, trial,
examination and issue and return of summons, physician's report, amounts of
fees, feebook and page of entry, and court orders. Arr. chron. Indexed
alph. by name of alleged insane person. Hdw. on pr. fm. 300 p. 18 x 12 x
l|. Co. elk. 's off., 1st fl.

148. CHILDREN'S HOME SOCIETY RECORD, 1894-1900, 1 v. Discontinued,
Record of placing of children in the Illinois Children's Home and Aid
Society, Chicago, showing name of child, age, place of residence, . history of
case, and remarks. .Practice of placing children in Chicago discontinued in
1900. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 240 p. 8 x 14 x 1. Co,
elk, 's. off. , 1st fl,

149. VOLUNTARY ASSIGNMENT RECORD, 1878-99, 1 v. 1872-77 in County
Court Record, entry 145; 1900 — kept by the United States
District Court at Galesburg, 111,

Copies of assignments by insolvent debtors to assignees, showing date, names
of debtor and assignees, amount and conditions of assignee's bond,
assignee's inventory of real and personal property, list and value of
articles exempt by law, names' and addresses of creditors, amount of claim,
and assignee's report of assets of debtor against claims of creditors,
Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of debtor. Hdw. 576 p. 18 x 12 x 3.
Tax record rm. , bsmt.

- 120 -
County Court - Dockets (150-155)

150. PETITION FOR REMOVAL OF COUNTY SEAT, 1873. 1 "bdl.
Original petitions to county court to move county seat from Galesturg to
Knoxville, to "be decided ty an election, showing place and date of
petition, court to which addressed, and names of petitioners. No arr.
No index. Hdw. 12 x 8 x 1, Clock tower rm,, 4th fl.

For supervisors' record of removal of county seat, see entry 20,

Dockets

Court Dockets

151. CLERK! S C0M^..;0N LAW DOCEET, 1854--. 35 v, (28 not numbered, 1-7).
Clerk's docket of comiiion law and criminal cases, showing term date, case
num"ber, names of plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys, kind of action, and
court orders. Also contains Judge's Docket, County Court, 1854-71,
entry 152, Arr, chron. No index. Hdv.'. under pr. hdj^s. 160 p. 16 x 9

X 2. 28 V. not nunitiered, 1-4, 1854-1924, tax record rm. , bsmt.; v. 5-7,
1925—, CO. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

152. JUDGE'S DOCKET, COUNTY COURT, 1872—. 14 v. (7 not numhered,
3-9). Title varies: County Court Docket. 1854-71 in Clerk's
Common Law Docket, entry 151.

Docket of common law and criminal cases, showing case nuinher, term date,
names of plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys, kind of action, court
orders, and remarks. Also contains Judge's Docket, Insane, 1872-80,
entry 156. Arr, chron. For index, see entry 146. Hdw. under pr. hdgs.
175 p. 14 X 12 X 2. 7 v. not numbered, 1872-1909, v, 3, 4, 1910-23,
southeast strm. , "bsmt.; v. 5-9, 1924 — , co. clk.'s off., 1st fl,

153. JUDGMENT DOCKET, 1854 — . 4 v. (1-4).

Docket of judgments, showing names of plaintiff, defendant, attorneys,
and person against whom judgment is entered, nature of action, record,
fee "book, and page num"bers, dates of service and return of execution,
and amount of judgment. Also contains Execution Docket (and Process
Docket), 1854-58, entry 154. Arr. alph. "by name of person against whom
judgment is entered. Indexed alph, "by name of defendant. Hdw. under pr,
hdgs. 574 p. 18 X 12 X 3. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

154. EXECUTION DOCKET (and Process Docket), 1859—, 17 v, (4 not
numbered, 10-22). 1854-58 in Judgment Docket, entry 153.

Execution and process docket showing names of plaintiff and defendant,
amount and nature of execution, dates of service and return, by whom
served, and amount of fees earned. Also contains Foreign Writs, 1859-
1906, 1908 — , entry 155. Arr. alph. by name of person against whom judg-
ment is entered. Indexed alph„ by name of defendant. Hdw. under pr, hdgs,
360 - 600 p, 16 X 11 X 2^ - 18 X 12 X 3. 4 v. not nu'ibered, v. 10, 11,
1859-1909, northeast strm., bsmt.; v. 12-22, 1910—, sh. 's off., 2nd fl,

155. FOREIGN WRITS, 1907. 1 v, 1859-1906, 1908— in Execution
Docket (and Process Docket), entry 154,

Docket of executions to be served outside of Knox County, showing names of
county, plaintiff, and defendant, date, and order to sheriff to serve and
make a return on execution. Arr. chron. No index. Writing faded. 200 p,
13 X 85 X 1. Northeast strm,, bsmt.

- 121 -
County Court - Fee Books (156-16G)

156. JUDGE'S DOCKET, INSANE, 1881—. 13 v. (A-M) . 1372-80 in
Judge's Docket, County Court, entry 152.

Docket of insanity and i'eetle-minded cases, showing names of petitioner,
patient, examining physician, and jurors, dates of petition, court term,
issue and return of summons, and examination, jurors selected, drawn,
and served, reports of physicians, court orders, amount of fees, and fee
took and page of entry. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of patient.
Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 300 p. 16 x 11 x 2. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Justices' and
Magistrates' Dockets

157. JUSTICE OF PEACE DOCKET, 1837-1933. 136 v. 1934— in local
offices of Justices of the Peace.

Dockets of justice of the peace cases, showing date, names of plaintiff,
defendant, and attorneys, nature of case, court rulings, and final judg-
ment. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. ty names of plaintiff and defendant.
1837-53, hdw.; 1854-1933, hdw. on pr. fra. 490 p. 16 x 10 x 2. Tax record
rm. , bsmt.

158. POLICE MaiSTRATE DOCKET, 1838-1924. 66 v. 1925— in local
offices of Police Magistrates.

Dockets of police magistrates, showing names of plaintiff, defendant, and
attorneys, cause of action, date, and disposition of case. Arr. chron.
Indexed alph. by names of plaintiff and defendant. 1838-53, hdw.; 1854-
1924, hdw. under pr. hdgs. 375 p. 14 x 9 x 2. Tax record rm. , bsmt.

Fee Books
(See also entries 97, 101, 17C)

159. FEE BOOK LAW AND CRIMINAL, 1872—. 7 v. (1-7).

Record of fees in common law and criminal cases, showing case number,
names of plaintiff and defendant, cause of action, itemized fees, date, and
by whom paid. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of plaintiff. Hdw. under
pr. hdgs. 640 p. 18 x 12 x 3. V. 1, 2, 1872-1902, tax record rm. , bsmt.;
V. 3-7, 1903 — , CO. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

160. FEE BOOK, INSANE, 1881—. 29 v. (1-29). 1847-80 in Probate Fee
Book, entry 205.

Ledger of fees received in insanity cases, showing case number, names of
patient and petitioner, items of earnings, and amounts of county clerk's,
sheriff's, commissioners', and state's attorney's fees. Arr. chron.
Indexed alph. by name of alleged insane person. Hdw. under pr. hdgs.
318 p. 18 X 12 X 2. V. 1-16, 1881-1910, southeast strm. , bsmt.; v, 17-29,
1911—, CO. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 122 -
County Court - Probation; (161-165)

Haturalizo.tion

Probation

Jurvcnilc (Scc

also entries 148, 178)

161, DEPEIIDENT OR DELIKQUENT ClilLDREN, 1927—. 1 f.d. 1839-1926 in
Probate Files, entry 173.

Juvenile probation officer's file of dependent and delinquent cases, show-
ing case nujuber, names of child, parents, gur-rdian, probation officer, and
invcstin;ator, personal cjid statistical particulars, nature of complaint
or charge, school history, conditions of probation and supervision, in-
vestigator's report, court action, and date of placciacnt or discharge,
Arr . alph. by name of child. For index, see entries 162, 175, Hdv.r. and
typed, 10 X 10 x 24. Co, judge's off,, 2nd fl,

162, IlIDEX TO DEPENDENT A]ID DELIIIQUEI^tT GlIILmEI'I, 1927—, 1 f.b.
Card index to dependent and delinquent cases, shovrLng name of child,
record of court action, investigation, tcrmina.tion of probation, and ca,so
nuiTiber, Arr, alph, by name of child, Hdv;-, on pr, fn, 3 x 15 x 14, Co,
judge's off,, 2nd fl.

Mothers' Pension

163, HEARINGS, IIOTIIERS' PEKSIONS, 1907—. 1 f.d.

Petitions to county court for mothers' pension, shov/ing name and address
of petitioner, transcript of evidence at hearing, probation officers' re-
port to court, and dates of petition and investigation. These are proba-
tion officers' records, kept separately from coimty court mothers'
pension records and are used in an advisory manner in determining the
need of pension, Arr, alph, by nemo of petitioner, Ko index, Edxr, on
pr, fm. 10 X 10 X 24, Co. judge's off,, 2nd f 1 .

164. MOTHERS' PEUSIOH RECORD, 1914—. 2 v. (l, 2).

Record of mothers' pensions, sho.dng dates of petitions an.d hearing, name
of mother, number of children, amount granted, and date of receipt, Arr,
cliron. Indexed alph, by name of mother, Hdv.-, on pr, fin, 200 p,
18 X 12 X 1, V, 1, 1914-32, tax record rm,, bsmt,; v, 2, 1933 — , co.
clk.'s off,, 1st fl.

Naturalization
(See also entries 253-258)

165, MTURALIZATIOH PAPERS, 1853-1906. 2 f,b. Discontinued,
Certificates of declaration of intentions, and oaths, shoYri.ng name of
alien, address, nativity, date of arrival in the Uiiitcd States, and notr^-
rial acknoiTledgment , Arr, chron. Ildv;-. on pr, fTn, No index, 12 x 12 x 24,
West strm,, 4th fl.

- 123 -
Comity Court - Receipts and (166-171)

Expenditures; Correspondence

166. NATUIlA.LIZATIOi\[ RECORD, INTENTIONS, 1864-19C6. 3 v. (A, C, 1
not lettered). Discontinued.

Record of declaration of intentions, showing names of clerk and alien,
nationality, oath, and date of acknowledgment before clerk. Arr. chron.
Indexed alph. by name of alien. Hdw. on pr. fm. 300 p. 16 x 11 x 2.
Co. clk.'s offe annex, 1st fl.

167. NATURALIZATION RECORDS, DISCHARGED SOLDIERS, 1866-1906. 1 v.
Last entry 1902.

Naturalization record of soldiers, showing names of soldier and vdtneso-
es, service record, and dates of oath of allegiance and final certifi-
cate. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of alien, Hdw. on pr. fm.
350 p. 18 X 12 X 2. Co. clk.'s offi annex, 1st fl.

168. NATURALIZATION RECORD, FINAL, 1880-19C6. 2 v. (D, F) .
Discontinued.

Final naturalization records showing name and nationality of alien, names

of witnesses, and judge, and dates of petition, oath, and final certifi-

ca,te. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of alien. Hdw. on pr. fm.
592 p. 18 X 12 X 2^. Co. clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

169. NATURALIZATION RECORDS, MINORS, 1891-1906. 2 v. (E, C) .
Discontinued.

Naturalization record of minors, showing names of minor and witnesses,
de,tes of declaration and oath, and court order of admission to citizen-
ship. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of minor. Hdw. on pr. fm.
600 p. 18 X 12 X 3. Co. clk.'s off. ajinex, 1st fl.

For prior records of minors, see entries 166, 168.

Receipts and Expenditures
(See also entries 97, 101, 159)

170. CASH BOOK, 1907—. Missing: 1910-23. 6 v. Frior records
cannot be located.
.County clerk's cash book for county court, showing daily receipts and
expenditures, date, amount, to whom paid, from whom received, fee book
and page of entry, totals, and balance. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw.
under pr. hdgs. 14 x 13 x ij. 4 v., 1907-33, west strm. , 4th fl.;
2 v., 1934~, CO. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Correspondence

171. CORRESPONDENCE, 1923--. 1 f.b., 1 f.d. Prior records cannot
be located.
County clerk's correspondence relating to business of his office. Arr.
alph. by name of correspondent. No index. Hdw. and typed. F.b.
3 x 12 X 12; f.d. 12 x 12 x 24. 1 f.b., 1923-30, tax record rm., bsmt.;
1 f.d., 1931--, CO. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 124 -

(Next entry 172, p. 12?)

PROBATE CCIRT

In Knox County, a sep.T,rate probate court is not maintained, the
function of this court being delegated to the county court. The county
court has original jurisdiction in all matters of probate, the settlement
of esto,tcs of deceased persons, the appointment of gu<ardiajis and conserva-
tors ajid settlement of their accounts; matters relating to apprentices;
proceedings by executors and administrators for sale of real estate; pro-
ceedings for the collection of taxes and special assessments of property
in probate. 1 The court has power to impanel a Jury for the trial of is-
sues or matters of fact in any of these proceedings before it. 2

Jurisdiction over probate matters in Knox County was first exercised
by a separate probate court. Its incumbent, the judge of the probate
court, was a,n elected officer of the General Assembly, and held office
during good behavior. 3 The next incumbent was the probate justice, an
elected officer of the coiinty electorate.'* The justice's tenure of of-
fice was four years until 1845 when it was reduced to two years. ^ Twelve
years after the first election of the probate justice by the county elec-
torate, the jiirisdiction of the probate court was transferred to the newly
created county court, which was established in 1849.^ The Knox county
court has retained probate jurisdiction from 1849 to the present day.

When acting in matters of the administration of estates of decedents,
minors and incompetent persons, the county court nay, after due notice to
all the interested parties, appoint a referee or referees. A party to
such proceeding may object in writing, prior to the appointment, to such
appointment. The person appointed, a licensed attorney, has authority to
take testimony in such cause or proceedings and to report the sane in writ-
ing, together with his conclusions of lev and. fact to the court. The court
may then render and enter a proper judgment order or decree upon such report.
Either party may except to such report and have his exception heard rjid de-
termined by the court. In which instance, the coiirt hears, if necessary,
fiirther evidence or refers the cause or proceeding back to the referee with

1. Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 20; R.S.1874, p. 339,340; L.1877,
p. 80.

2. R.S.1845, p. 339; L.1953, p. 459.

3. L.1821, p. 119; L.1823, p. 132; L.1825, p. 87.

4. L. 1836-37, p. 176; R.S.1845, p. 426.

5. R.S.1845, p. 426.

6. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 16,18; L.1849, p. 64,65; R.S.1874,
p. 339,340.

- 125 -
Probate Court (Next entry 172, p. 127)

instructions. The costs of the services of the referee are entered as
judgment against the unsuccessful party, or the respective parties,
upon final hearing. All the testimony taken tefore the referee and all
the exhibits and papers introduced in evidence, and the report of the
referee, are included in and form part of the record of the cause and
proceeding.!

Aiding the court in its Jurisdiction over the administration of in-
testa.te estates and the guardianship of minors, are the public adminis-
trator and the public guardian. Each officer is appointed quadrennially
by the Governor with the advice and consent of the senate. The public
administrator and public guardian are required to enter into bonds set
and approved by the probate court in sums not less than $5000.2 Their
duties are performed under the direction and orders of the court. The
records that result from their prescribed duties, appear among the rec-
ords of the court with those of other administrators, executors, and
guardians.

When there is no relative or creditor who vdll o^dminister an intes-
tate estate, the court commits the administration to the public adminis-
trator upon application of any person interested in the deceased estate. 3
If a widow or next of kin, or creditor of the deceased appears within six
months after the administration is grajited to the public administrator,
the court then revokes its grant of administration to the public adminis-
trator, and orders powers of ojdministration granted to such person inter-
ested in the estate. If, after all debts and charges against the estate
which have been presented within two years after the administration of the
estate was committed to such public administrator are fully paid, .and DJ\y
balance of intestate estate remains, the administrator causes a notice to
be published requiring persons still having claims against the estate to
present them to the county court within six months. If no such claim is
presented upon the expiration of the six-month period the balance is paid
into the county treasury, the county remaining answerable for the same to
a.riy future claims. 4

As already noted, the court has authority to appoint guardia.ns of
minor heirs of deceased persons.^ In cases where the minor is xander four-
teen years of age the court appoints his guardian. When the minor is over
fourteen he may nominate his own guardian, subject to the approval of the
court. ^ Under the direction of the court, the guardian is responsible for
the custody, nurture, and tuition of his ward, and the care and management
of his estate. The court may appoint the guardianship of the estate to

1. L.1923, p. 312,313.

2. L.1825, p. 70; R.L.1929, p. 209; R.L.1853. p. 627,628; R.S.1845, p. 548;
L. 1871-72. p. 77; L.1881, p. 3; L.1889, p. 165.

3. R.L.1835, p. 628; R.S.1845, p. 548; L. 1871-72. p. 77.

4. R.S.1345, X). 549; L. 1871-72, p. 77.

5. L.1831, p. 100; L.1835, p. 36; R.S.1845, p. 265,266; L. 1875-74, p. 107;
L.1919. p. 582; L.1931. p. 518; L.1937, p. 660.

6. Ibid.

- 126 -
Probate Court (llext entry 172, p, 127)

one guardian and the custody and tuition to atiother,! Y/ithin sixty days
after his appointnent, the guardian returns to the probate couj-t a com-
plete inventory of the real and personal estate of the vvrard in the form
prescribed by law, 2 At the end of the first year of his appointment and
every tliree years thereafter, he makes a settlement of his accounts,
TJTien his trust is completed or upon the death of the ward, the guardian
malces final settlement and delivers over to persons entitled, the property
and papers in his hands as guardian. 3 Upon failure of a guardian appointed
by the court to act vri.thin tliree months in this capacity, the court com-
mits the guardianship of such minor to the public guardian.^ The latter 's
records appear with those of other guardians.

The early probate judge, 1830 to 1837, and the probate justice,
1837 to 1849, each performed the ministerial function of the probate
clerk. ^ YiTith the creation of the county court in 1849, until the present,
the county clerk has served as ex-officio probate clerk. 6

The clerk is required to attend the sessions of the court, issue all
process, preserve all the files and pages thereof, make, keep and preserve
complete records of all the proceedings and determinations, ajid do an per-
form all other duties pertaining to his office as required by law or the
rules and orders of his court, and enter of record all judgments, decrees
and orders of the court,'

are;

The major records of the probate court, Virhich are kept by the clerk

1, JoLurnal of all judicial proceedings and determina-
tions of the judge,

2, A judgment docket with a direct and an indirect inde::;
former by name of claimant against estate, latter by
estate. In practice, the requirement of two indexes
often leads to tvro dockets,

3, Books for recordation of bonds and letters of adminis-
trators, executors, guardians, and conservators; ap-
praisement and sale bills; widows' relinquishment and
selection of property; wills and the probate thereof;
annual and final reports of administrators, executors,
guardians, and conservators. Generally each category

of these probate business matters is recorded separately,
but the segregation is not always carefully maintained.

1, L. 1871-72, p. 469; L.1877, p. 114,

2, L.1919, p, 582; L.1955, p, 644.

3, L, 1871-72, p. 469; L.1919, p. 582; 1,1929, p. 506,

4, L,1839, p. 165,

5, L.1821, p. 119,120; R.L.1829, p. 215; L.1S31, p. 192; ?. ,3,1845,
p. 427,428.

6, Constitution of 1848, Art-. V, sees. 16,18; L.1849, p. 64, S5; R.S.1874,

P» 339*^40.

7, L.1877, p. 79; L.13S1, p. 72; L,1935, p. 458,459.

- 127 -
Protatc Court - Proceedings (172-173)

of Court

4, Separate dockets of unsettled estates and clairas
against estates, and a ledger of the accounts of
executors, administrators, and guardians . Note
that the dockets of probate business matters are
separated from dockets of court proceedings, just
as are the books of recordation of the two cate-
gories; the intention of the law to make this dis-
tinction is further shovrn in its granting the clerk,
during vacation of the court, power to receive peti-
tions, accept bonds, grant letters testamentary, etc,

5, Files of original documents not subject to recorda-
tionj indexes of such; records of office transactions
in pursuance of the court's orders to the clerk neces-
sary in the latter 's settlcm.cnt with that body.

Proceedings of Court

Case Papers

172. IlIDEX TO YflLLS, ESTATES, ADIirriSTRATORS AilD EXECUTORS, 1839--,
1 V.

Index to estate papers, vails, and administrators' and executors' files,
showing names of administrator, executor, and estate, and file box and
document numbers. Arr. alph, by name of estate. Hdw. under pr, hdgs.
450 p. 16 X 15 x 2-?:. Co. clk,»s off., 1st fl,

173. PROBATE FILES, 1859—. 827 f,b. (1-500, 1020-1125, 1839—;
501-667, 1878 — ; 668-721, 1930 — ), Title varies: Miscellaneous
Probate Files,

Files of probate papers, including oaths, bonds, letters, petitions, and
reports, of administrators, executors, guardians, and conservators, proofs
of heirship, inventories of real and p ersonal property, assignments,
adoption papers, orders admitting wills to probate, claims against estates,
and inheritance tax returns. Also contains Dependent or Delinquent
Children, 1839-1926, entry 161j Guardicjiship Files, 1839-40, entry 176;
and Conservators' Files, 1839-40, entry 177, Arr, chron, . For index, see
entry 172; for additional index to assignments end adoptions, see entry
175. Hdw. and typed on pr, fm. 9 x 5 x 13, Co, clk,«s off., 1st fl.

1, L.1821, p. 119; R,L.1829, p. 215,231; R,L.1837, p. 42C; R.S.1845,
p, 427,423; L.1851, p. 193; 1,1859, p. 92-4; R.S,1874, p, 260-65;
L,1877, p, 63; 1,1953, p. 293.

- 128 -
Protate Court - Proceedings (174-178)

of Court

174. WILLS, 1839—, 98 f.t. (922-1019).

Wills filed in prolate court, shov/ing date, provisions of testament,
and signatiores of testator and witnesses. Arr. alph. "by name of testa-
tor. For index, see entry 172. Hdw. and typed on pr. fm. 9 x 5 x 13,
Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

For recordation and copies of wills, see entries 142, 182.

175. INDEX TO GUARDIANSHIP, CONSERVATORS, INSANE, ADOPTIONS,
DELINqUEOTS AND DEPENDENTS, AND ASSIGNORS, 1841—. 1 v.

General index to guardianship, conservatorship, insanity, adoption,
delinquency, and assignors' files, showing names of minor, ward, patient,
guardian, conservator, assignee, and petitioner, and document and file
hox numbers. Arr, alph. hy name of w.ord. Hdw. under pr, hdgs, 600 p,
16 X 15 x 3, Co, clk.'s off., 1st fl,

176. GUARDIANSHIP FILES, 1841—. 41 f.lj. (725-765). 1839-40 in
Prohate Files, entry 173.

Guardianship papers, including petitions, oaths, bonds, letters, reports,
and inventories. Arr. alph. "by name of guardi.an. For index, see entry
175. Hdw. and typed on pr, fm. 9 x 5 x 13. Co. clk.'s off,, 1st fl.

177. CONSERVATORS' FILES, 1841—. 49 f."b. (866-914). 1839-40 in
Probate Files, entry 173.

Conservatorship papers, including oaths, bonds, letters, and petitions
for appointments, claims against estates, inventories, and reports.
Arr. alph. by name of conservator. For index, see entry 175. Hdw. and
typed on pr. fm. 9 x 5 x 13. Co, clk.'s off,, 1st fl.

Records

178. PROBATE RECORD, 1830—. 78 v. (lA, IB, 1, 2, 2, 3, 3-16, 16-73).
Record of probate proceedings, shov/ing names of estate, heirs, adminis-
trator, executor, conservator, guardian, sureties, and witnesses, dates,
and court orders. Includes dependency and delinquency records, and claims
against estates. Also contains Affidavit of Notice for Creditors to Ap-
pear, 1830-66, entry 179; Conservatorship, Insane Record, 1830-92, entry
180; Insolvent Estate Record, 1830-80, 1892—, entry 181; Will Record,
1830-34, entry 182; Bonds and Letters, 1830-49, entry 189, including Ad-
ministrators' Record, entry 183, Miscellaneous Administrators' Record,
entry 184, Executors' Record, entr;-- 185, Guardians' Record, entry 186,
Guardians' Bonds, Additional, entry 187, and Conservators' Record, entry
188; Inventory Record, 1830-34, entry 190; Appraisement Records, 1830-71,
entry 191; Widows' Relinquishment and Selection, 1830-1900, entry 192;
Record of Petition, Decrees, and Sales of Real Estate, 1830-53, entry
193; Sale Bill Records, 1830-76, entry 194; Executors', Administrators'
and Guardians' Accounts, 1830-34, entry 195; and Account Current Record,
1830-76, entry 196. Arr, chron. Indexed alph. by name of estate,
1830-1912, hdw.; 1913—, typed. 300 p. 15 x 12 x 3, Co, clk,'s off,,

1st fl.

- 129 -
Probate Goiirt - Probate (179-184)

Business

179. ATFIDAVIT OF NOTICE FOR CREDITORS TO APPEAR, 1857—. 8 v.
(A-H) . 1830-66 in Probate Record, entry 178.

Copies of affidavits of notice for creditors to appear, with printer's
certificate of publication, showing names of estate and administrator,
dates of notice, subscribed oath, and cmoxmt of printer's cccts. Arr.
chron. Indexed alph. by name of estate. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 575 p.
18 X 12 X 3. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

180. CONSERVATORSHIP, INSANE RECORD, 1893--. 9 v. (l not numbered,
1-8). 1830-92 in Probate Record, entry 178.

Record of insanity inquisitions, showing term date, names of alleged insane,
petitioners, and sureties, date of hearing, verdict of ji'iry, d.ate, amount,
and condition of conservator's bond, and notarial acknoiTledgrnenor Arr.
chron. Indexed alph. by name of alleged insane person. Hdwj on pr. fm.
288 p. 18 X 12 X 2. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

181. INSOLVENT ESTATE RECORD, 1881-91. 1 v. 1830-80, 1892— in Pro-
bate Record, entry i 78-

Record of estates found insolvent, showing term date, names of deceased,
widow, executor, and administrator, inventory of personal property, amount
paid to widow, and court orders. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by najne of
estate. Hdw. on pr. fm. 288 p. 18^ x 12^; x l|. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Probate Business

Wills, Bonds, Letters (See also
entries 142, 173, 174, 176, 177)

182. WILL RECORD, 1835—. 22 v. (1-22). 1830-34 in Probate Record,
entry 178.

Copies of wills, showing najnes of testator and witnesses, renunciation of
will by widov;, dediraus potestatem to prove will, and date of filing. Arr.
chron. Indexed alph. by name of deceased. 1835-1925, hdw.; 1926 — , typed.
590 p. 18 X 12 X 2-|. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

183. ADMINISTRATORS' RECORD, 1858—. 18 v. (A-R) . 1830-49 in Probate
Record, entry 178; 1850-57 in Bonds and Letters, entry 189.

Copies of petitions, oaths, bonds, and letters, showing term date, names of
deceased, judge, clerk, petitioner, and sureties, amount and condition of
bond, administrators' and appraisers' reports, condition of estate, and
notarial acknowledgment. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of deceased.
Hdw. on pr. fm. 600 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

184. MISCELLANEOUS ADMINISTPJITORS' RECORD, 1877—. 5 v. (A-E) . 1830-
49 in Probate Record, entry 178; 1850-76 in Bonds and Letters,
entry 189.

Copies of bonds of administrator with will annexed, bonds of administrator
de bonis non, and additional bonds of administrator, showing names of
estate, administrator, and sureties, date, terms, and amount of bond,
notarial aclcnowledgraent, and copies of annexed wills. Arr. chron.^ In-
dexed alph. by name of estate. Hdw. on pr. fm. 250 - 640 p. 18 x 12 x 1^ -
18 X 12 X 3. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 130 -
Probate Court - Probate Business (185-189)

185. EXECUTORS' RECOED, 1858—. 12 v. (A-L). 1830-49 in Probate
Record, entry 178; 1850-57 in Bonds and Letters, entry 189,

Copies of petitions, oaths, bonds, and letters, showing term date, names
of judge, clerk, sureties, appraiser, petitioner, and deceased, executors'
and appraisers' reports, amount and condition of bond, condition of estate,
and notarial acknov/ledgment. Arr. chron. Indexed alph, by name of
deceased. Hdw. on pr. fm, 600 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Co. elk. ' s off., 1st fl,

186. GUARDIANS' RECORD, 1858—. 9 v. (A-C, C-H). 1830-49 in
Probate Record, entry 178; 1850-57 in Bonds and Letters, entry
189.

Copies of guardians' petitions, oaths, bonds, and letters, shoving names
of minor, guardian, and sureties, date, amoiint, and terms of bond, list
of property, guardian's report, and notarial acknowledgment. Also con- .
tains Guardians' Bonds, Additional, J905~, entry 137, and Conservators'
Record, 1858--92, entry 188. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of minor.
Hdw. on pr. fm. 500 p. 18 x 12 x 2-g-. Co. elk. ' s off., 1st fl.

187. GUARDIAInTS' BONDS, ADDITIONAL, 1882-1904. l.v. 1830-49 in
Probate Record, entry 178; 1850-81 in Bonds and Letters, entry
189; 1905 — in Guardians' Record, entry 186.

Copies of additional bonds,, given by guardians, shov/ing names of prin-
cipal and sureties, amount, date, and conditions of bond, and notarial
acknowledgment. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of guardian. Hdw.
on pr..fm. 540 p. 18 x 12 x 2^. Co. elk.'? off., 1st fl.

183. CONSERVATORS' RECORD, 1893—. 9 v. (l, 1-S). 1830-49 in
Probate Record, entry 178; 1850-57 in Bonds and Letters,
entry 189; 1858-92 in Guardians' Record, entry 186.

Record of conservators' bonds, letters, oaths, and petitions, shov/ing

date, names of petitioner, alleged insane person, judge, and sureties;.

also contains conservators' inventories. Arr. chron. Indexed alph.

by name of alleged insane person. Hdw. on pr, fm. 400 p. 18 x 12 x 2.

Co. elk. 's off., 1st fl.

189. BONDS AND LETTERS, 1850-81. 2 v. (1, 2). Title varies:
Probate Record of Bonds and Letters. 1830-49 in Probate
Record, entry 178.
Copies of administrators', conservators', guardians', and executors'
bonds, letters, oaths, and petitions, and miscellaneous and additional
bonds, showing names of estate, petitioner, and sureties, notarial
acknowledgment, and dates. Contains Administrators' Record, 1850-57,
entry 183; Miscellaneous Administrators' Record, 1850-76, entry 184;
Executors' Record, 1850-57, entry 185; Guardians' Record, 1850-57, entry
186; Guardians' Bonds, Additional, 1850'-81, entry 187; and Conservators'
Record, 1850-57, entry 188. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of
estate. Hdw. 500 p. 18 x 12 x 2^. Co. elk. «s off., 1st fl.

- 131 ~
Probate Court - Probate Business (190-194)

Inventories and Appraisontents (See also
entries 173, 176, 177, 188)

190. aTEIWORY RECORD, 1835—. 27 v. (2 not numbered, 5-29).
Missing: 1846-49, 1830-34 in Probate Record, entry 178,

Record of inventories of administrators, executors, guardians, and con-
servators of estates, shoviring names of estate and administrator, item-
ized list of real and personal property, notes and accounts receivable,
and oath as to correctness of report of inventory, Arr. chron.
Indexed alph, by name of estate, 1835-1924, hdw,; 1925--, typed, 600 p,
18 X 12 X 3. Co, clk.'s off,, 1st f 1 .

191. APPRAISEIMIT RECORDS, 1872—, 15 v. (5-19). 1830-71 in
Probate Record, entry 178,

Estate appraisement record showing names of estate, judge, and appraiser,
appraiser's warrant and oath, itemized list of property, appraised value,
and allowance to widow, Arr, cliron. Indexed alph, by name of estate,
HdYJ-. on pr, fm. 600 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Co. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Tf i dows ' R e 1 inqui sliment
and Selection

192. YflDOYiTS' RELINQUISIftlEIIT AND SELECTION, 1901--. 2 v. (l, 2).
1830-1900 in Probate Record, entry 178.

Lists of articles of personal property selected and allowed the widow,
showing names of estate, widow, minors, and administrator, appraised
value, widow's acknowledgment, and date of filing, Arr, chron. In-
dexed alph, by name of estate. Hdw, under pr , hdgs, 300 p, 18 x 12 x 2-|-,
Co, clk,»s off,, 1st fl.

Petitions, Decrees,
Reports of Sale

193. RECORD OF PETITION, DECREES, A1\!D SALES OF REAL ESTATE, 1854—,
34 V. (l-34). 1830-53 in Probate Record, entry 178,

Record of administrators', executors', guardians', and conservators'
petitions to sell real estate, showing names of estate, petitioner, and
purchaser, decree to sell, legal description of property, date and
amount of sale, Arr. chron. Indexed alph, by name of estate, Hdw,
600 p. 18 X 12-| X 3. V. 1-33, 1854-1935, co, clk.'s off,, 1st fl.;
V. 34, 1936—, treas.'s off,, 1st fl,

194. SALE BILL RECORDS, 1877—. 4 v, (l not nuiabered, 11-13).
1830-76 in Probate Record, entry 178,

Copies of estate sale bills, shov^ing names of estate, administrator, and
purchaser, dates of advertising, petitions, and sale, itemized list of
articles sold, and amount and place of sale. Arr. chron. Indexed alph,
by name of estate, 1877-1923, hdw,; 1924—, typed, 600 p. 18 x 12 x 3.
Co, clk.'s off,, 1st fl.

- 132 -

Protate Court - Dockets

(195-199)

Reports, Current and
Final Accounts

195, EXECUTORS', ADMINISTRATORS' AND GUARDIANS' ACCOUNTS, 1835—.
5 V. (1 not numbered, 2-5). 1830-34 in Probate Record, entry
178.

Executors', administrators', and guardians' accounts of estates showing
names of estate, executor, administrator, . or guardian, dates of receipts
and expenditures, from whom received, to whom paid, amounts, final settle-
ments, and date of discharge. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of
estate, Hdw. 635 p, 18 x 12 x 3. Co. , elk. 's . off . , 1st fl.

196, ACCOUNT CURRENT RECORD, 1877—. 59 v. (1-19, 21-60). Missing:
1903. 1830-76 in Probate Record, entry 178.

Administrators', executors', and conservators' accounts current showing
name of estate, amounts received and paid out, from whom received, to
whom paid, dates, and amounts of final reports. Arr. chron. Indexed
alph, by name of estate. 1877-1923, hdw.; 1924 — , typed. 591 p.
18 X 12 X 3. Co. elk. 's off., 1st fl.

Dockets
Court Proceedings

197. PROBATE JUDGE'S DOCKET, 1861™, 60 v. (2-61).

Docket of probate court cases, showing term date, name of estate, fee
book and page of record, and fees earned. Also contains Clerk's Probate
Docket, 1861-73, entry 198. Arr. chron. 1861-97, no index; 1898 — ,
indexed alph. by name of estate. Hdw. under. pr. hdgs. 500 - 860 p,
18 X 12 X 2i - 14 X 12 X 3. V, 2-33, 1861-1910, northeast strm. , bsmt,;
V, 34-43, 1911-19, southeast strm,, bsmt.; v, 44-61, 1920 — , co. elk. 's
off., 1st fl,

198, CLERK'S PROBATE DOCKET, 1874 — . 18 v. (2 not numbered, 1-16).
1861-73 in Probate Judge's Docket, entry 197.

Docket of administrators', executors', and guardians' petitions to close
estates, showing names of administrator, executor, or guardian, final
report, and docket number. Also contains Clerk|s Docket, Sales of Real
Estate and Special Assessments, 1874-1925, entry 204. Arr. chron. No
index, Hdw. under pr. hdgs, 157 p. 14 x 8 x 1, 2 v, not numbered,
v. 1-13, 1874-1927, tax record rm. , bsmt.; v. 14-16, 1928—, co. elk. 's
off., 1st fl.

Probate Business

199. PROBATE JUIXMENT DOCKET INDEX (Direct and Indirect), 1849 — .
1 V. (A).
Direct and indirect index to probate judgment and claim dockets, showing
names of claimant and estate, and docket letter and page number. Arr.
alph, by names of estate and claimant; p. 1-119 are a direct index
arr. by name of claimant; p. 120-240 are an indirect index arr. by name
of estate, Hdw, under pr, hdgs, 240 p. 18 x 12^ x 2. Co. elk. ' s off,,
1st fl.

- 133 -
Probate Court - Fee Books (200-205)

200. PROBATE CIAIi,' JUDGIvIENT DOCKET MD LEDGER, 1849—. 21 v. (A-U) ,
Docket of estate claims and judgments, showing names of estate, adminis-
trator or executor, and sureties, and dates and amounts of bond, sale,

and judgment. Also contains Claims Allowed, entry 201, and Estate Judgment
Docket, 1849-58, 1878 — , entry 202. Arr, chron. For index, see entry 199,
Hd\T, under pr, hdgs. 478 p, 18 x 12 x 3. Co, clk.^s off., 1st fl.
For prior records of claims against estates, sec entry 178,

201. CLAI1,:S ALLO'iiED, 1858-1909. 3 v. (l-3). 1849— also in Probate
Claim Judgment Docket and Ledger, entry 200,

Docket of claims filed and allov;ed, shov;ing names of administrator, claim-
ant, deceased, heirs, fee book and page numbers, memorandujn of will,
dates of action, sale of real estate, and filing, Arr, chron. Indexed
alph, by name of deceased; for sep, index, see entry 199, 1858-91, hdw,;
1892—, hdw. under pr . hdgs, 600 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Co. clk.'s off,, 1st f 1 .

202. ESTATE JUDGKEIIT DOCKET, 1859-77. 1 v. 1849-58, 1878— in
Probate Claim Judgment Docket and Ledger, entry 200,

Docket of estate judgments, shov/ing clair.i number, names of claimant and
estate, nature rjid amount of claim, date summonses issued, and judgment
of court, Arr. chron. No index, Hdv;-. Writing faded. 325 p.
18 X 12 X 3. Co, clk.'s off,, 1st f 1 ,

203. JUDGE'S DIHERIT/J-ICE TiiX DOCKET, 1909—, 3 v, (3-5),
Prior records cannot be located.

Inheritance tax docket showing nrjno of estate, legal description of prop-
erty, appraised value, exemptions, amount of tax as found by the court,
and dates of notice and tax return. Arr, chron. Indexed alph, by name
of estate. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 300 p. 18 x 12 x 1-g-. Co, clk.'s off.,
1st fl.

204. CLERK'S DOCKET, SALES OF RS/X ESTATE MD SPECIAL ASSESSLI2TTS,
1926—, 2 V. (4, 5). 1874-1925 in Clerk's Probate Docket,
entry 198,

Clerk's docket of sale of probate property mth special assessments
thereon, showing names of estate, petitioner, and defendant, and amounts
and dates of special assessments and sales, Arr, chron. Indexed alph.
by name of deceased, Hdvir, imdcr pr, hdgs, 300 p. 12 x 14 x 2, Co,
clk,is off,, 1st fl.

Fee Books
(Sec also entry 97)

205. PROBATE FEE BOOK, 1847—, 30 v, (l-30).
Ledger of fees received in probate cases, shovj-ing date and amount re-
ceived, from whom, and remarks. Also contains Fee Book, Insane (County
Court), 1847-80, entry 160; Fee Book Conservator, 1847-54, entry 206;
Guardians' Fee Book, 1847-55, entry 207; and Probate Judge's Fee Book,
1847-54, 1879—, entry 208, Arr. claron. Indexed alph, by name of
estate. Edw. under pr, hdgs. 636 p, 18 x 12 x 3, Co, clk,»s off,,
1st fl.

- 134 -
Circuit Court (206-208)

206. FEE BOOK CONSERVATOR, 1855 — . 25 v. (7 not numbered, 8-25).
1847-54 in Probate Fee Book, entry 205,

Ledger of fees received from conservator cases, showinf; names of estate
and conservator, date and amount of fees for services rendered, and tptal
amoiint.of clerk's earnings received. Arr. chron. Indexed alph, by name
of estate. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 640 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Co. clk.'s off.,
1st fl.

207. GUARDIANS' FEE BOOK, 1856—. 21 v. (l-2l). 1847-55 in Probate
Fee Book, entry 205.

Ledger account of fees received from guardian cases, showing names of
estate and guardian, date and amount of fee, and total fees. Arr. chron.
Indexed alph. by name of estate, Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 640 p, 18 x 12 x 3.
Co. elk, 's off., 1st fl.

208. PROBATE JUDGE'S FEE BOOK, 1855-78. 4 v, (l, 3, 5, A),
1847-54, 1879— in Probate Fee Book, entry 205,

Judge's record of fees received in probate cases, showing document number,
name of estate, and date, kind, and amount of fee. Arr. chron. Indexed
alph, by name of estate. Hdw, under pr, hdgs, 600 p, 18 x 12 x 2^,
Southeast strm, , bsmt.

VI. CIRCUIT COURT

The circuit court has original jurisdiction of all causes of law and
equity, and acts as a court of appeals in probate matters and causes cog-
nizable by the county court and justices of the peace. In. addition, it
is one of the courts capable of having naturalization jurisdiction accord-
ing to Federal Statutes,^

Originally, the circuit court was held in Knox County by justices of
the supreme court. At the same time there was appointed by the General
Assembly a circuit judge who, together with the justices of the supreme
court, administered justice throughout the circuit as part of the

1. Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec, 12; L. 1871-72, p. 77^ R.S.1874,
p. 339; L.1895, p. 185; L.1919, p. 134; L.1933, p. 688; L.1935, p, 1,

2. U,S*S.1802. p, 153; U,S.R.S. 1874, p. 378; U.S.S.1906» p. 596;
U,S.S.1913. p. 737; U.S.S.1926, p. 709.

- 135 -
Circuit Court (Next entry 203, p. 140)

Judicial 'branch of government.! The circuit judge and justices of the
supreme court held the circuit court in Knox County from 1830 to 1835 in
the manner and at the terms prescribed by law.^ In 1835 the judiciary
was reorganized and an additional circuit judge was appointed by the
General Assembly for the district serving Knox County. All of the laws
requiring supreme court justices to hold circuit courts were repealed "by
this legislation.*^ The new plan of organization was tenable for a brief
period of six years, for in 1841 additional associate justices of the
supreme court were elected by joint ballot of the General Assembly, which
justices, together with the other justices of the supreme court, held the
circuit courts.^ Then in 1849, another change was made in the circuit
court. This latter change was made in accordance with the second consti-
tution which provided for the election of circuit judges by the judicial
district electorate. ^ The Constitution of 1870 altered the circuit dis-
tricts and established population requirements for counties that may com-
prise a circuit.-" From 1849 to the present the circuit judges have been
elective officers of the judicial district electorate. The district of
which Knox County is a circuit is made up of six counties.

Three circuit judges are elected for the district who serve for six-
year terms. ^ Before entering upon the duties of his office, each circuit
judge is required to subscribe to an oath which he files with the secre-
tary of state. Those elected after the first Monday of June 1933, receive
a salary of $7,200 which is paid out of the state treasury.^

The hearings of several of the election contests are held before this
court. Jurisdiction is granted to the court to hear and determine contests
of the election of judges of the supreme court, judges of the circuit court,
and members of the state board of equalization, but no judge of the circuit
court is allowed to sit upon a hearing of any case in which he is a party, lo
Also the circuit court hears and determines the election contests of some

1. R.L.1829, p. 48; R.L.1835, p. 152,156,157.

2. Ibid.

3. L.1835, p. 150,151.

4. L.1841, p. 173; R.S.1845, p. 143.

5. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 7.

6. Constitution of 1870, Art, VI, sec. 13.

7. L.1933, p. 435.

8. Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 12.

9. L.1933, p. 621; L.1957, p. 189,606. In 1835 the salary of the circuit
judge was $750 per annum. L.1835, p. 167. The Constitution of 1870
set the salary at $3000 until otherwise provided by law. Constitution
of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 16. A few of the recent changes were: from 1919
to 1925 for judges elected during this period, $6500; for the period
1925 to 1933, those elected received $8000 per year. L.1919, p, 553,
554; L.1925, p. 400; L.1931, p. 148.

10. L.1899, p. 152.

- 136 -
Circuit Court - (Next entry 209, p. 140)

of the local and county offices. These include contests of judge of the
county court, mayors of cities, president of the county board, presidents
of villages, elections in reference to removal of county seats and in re-
ference to any other subject which may be submitted to the vote of the
people of the county, and concurrent jurisdiction with the co\inty court
in cases of contested elections under its jurisdiction.

Included under the jurisdiction of the circuit court are also
appeals from the Illinois Commerce Commission's rules, regulations, orders
or decisions. Such appeals may be taken to the circuit court serving Knox
County when the subject matter of the hearing is situated in this county.
The appeal may be heard for the purpose of having the reasonableness or
lawfulness of the rule, regulation, order or decision inquired into and
determined,^

To make possible the handling of much litigation, a branch circuit
court may be held at the same time that the main or regular circuit court
for Knox County is in session. A branch court is held by any circuit
judge or by any judge of any other circuit called in for the purpose of
hearing and deciding motions and settling the issues in any, or all,
causes pending in the circuit court, and for the purpose of hearing
chancery causes and cases at law which are pending in such court for that
terra. The presiding judge of the main circuit court assigns to the
branch court as many of the law and chancery cases for the settling of
issues therein, as the presiding judge of the branch court will possibly
have time to hear and try,^

Also to aid in the speedy administration of justice, the judges or
a majority of them, may by an order entered of record in the office of
the clerk of the circuit court, dispense with either or both the grand
and petit juries for any term or part of term of the circuit court, and
may designate what term or terms, or part of parts thereof, shall be de-
voted to criminal business, and what term or terms, or part or parts
thereof, to civil business.

Each of the three judges of the circuit court is authorized to ap-
point one official shorthand reporter. This appointee is required to be
skilled in verbatim reporting and is not allowed to hold more than one
such official appointment. The appointment is in writing and is required
to be filled in the office of the auditor of public accounts. The reporter
holds office until his appointment is revoked by the appointing judge or
the termination of the said judge's term. When the official reporter is
absent or disabled, the presiding judge may appoint any other competent
reporter to act during such absence or disability. The substitute is paid

lo

L, 1871-72,

2,

3.

L.1921, p,
L. 1873-74,

4,

L.1835, p.

p, 380; L.1895, p. 170.

742,743.

p. 82,83; L.1905, p. 146.

168; L.1873, p. 81; L.1933, p. 441,442.

- 137 -
Circuit Court (Next entry 209, p. 140)

by the official reporter for his services. The reporter causes full steno-
graphic notes of the evidence in all trials before the court to be. taken
dovm and transcript of the same to be correctly made if desired by either
party of the suit, by their attorney, or by the judge of the court. Each
of the reporters receives and is paid out of the state treasury an annual
salary of $3,600. The salaries are paid out monthly on the warrant of the
auditor of public accounts.

The probation officer for adult probationers is an appointee of the
circuit court. '- His services extend throughout the county. Courts exer-
cising criminal or quasi-criminal jurisdiction are given power to deal with
adult or juvenile offenders of specified offences under the provisions of
this act of creation. In the performance of his prescribed duties, the
probation officer principally serves the county and circuit courts. He is
required to give bond as determined by the circuit court in a sum not ex-
ceeding $5,000, and is subject to the rules and removal of the said appoint-
ing court, Knox County has one probation officer under the allovrance of one
for each 50,000, or fraction thereof, of population.

The probation officer is compensated at a rate determined by the
county board. In the performance of his duties, he is required to investi-
gate the case of defendants requesting probation; notify the court of
previous conviction or probation; make reports to the respective courts;
keep a set of records as described below; take charge of and watch over
all persons placed on probation, and cases of probationers moving from
another county into his county. "^

The reports made by the probation officer to the courts are kept by
the clerk in the respective cases. The courts' probation records include
orders granting or refusing release on probation, probationers' bonds,
the reports of probation officers noted above, and discharge of probation-
ers.

The probation officer is required to keep complete accurate records
of investigated cases, including description of the investigated persons,
the action of the court, the subsequent history of probationers, .These
are private records and open to inspection by any judge or by any proba-
tion officer pursuant to a court order and are not public records,'*

Unlike the judges of the circuit court, who are elected by the judi-
cial district electorate, the clerk of this court is elected by the county
electorate,^ This official performs the ministerial duties of the circuit

1. L.1887, p. 159,160; L,1927, p. 395.

2. L.1911, p, 280,281.

3. L.1911, p. 281,282; L.1915, p. 381,382.

4. L.1911, p. 277-84; L.1915, p. 378-84.

5. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 7; Constitution of 1870, Art. X,
sec. 8.

- 138 -
Circuit Court (Next entry 209, p. 140)

court of Knox County cud files and preserves its records c\s well as those
of the brcaich circuit courts.-^ He is conmissioncd by the Governor and be-
fore entering upon the duties of his office, gives bond vri.th sureties
which arc approved by any tv;o of the judges of the court. Ills bond is
given in the sum of not less than $5,000 and agreed upon by the judges.
The oath to vriiich he subscribes is filed vrith the secretary of state, '^ If
a vacancy occurs in this office and the unexpired terr.i docs not exceed one
year, the court is required to fill such vacancy by appointment of a clerk
pro tempore . The appointee is then required to qualify for office in the
manner as the clerk of the circuit court. When the appointment is made,
the court notifies the Governor of the filled vacancy. The Governor in
turn, as soon as practicable, issues a v/rit of election for circuit clerk, 3

The clerk of the circuit court v/a.s first appointed by the circuit
court in Knox County ,4 He kept a record of all the oaths that he adminis-
tered and certified a copy annually to the secretai-y of state. ^ The clerk
preserved a complete record of all proceedings and determinations of the
court of vj-hich he was clerk, ^ At each t erm of the circuit court, the
clerk inquired into the condition of the treatment of prisoners and v/as
required to see that all prisoners were humanely treated.' This authori-
ty was in later years, and is at present, delegated to the circuit court .o
One of the early requisites of this office was for the clcrl: of the cir-
cuit court to reside near the county seat in order that he could attend
to his duties daily. In the event that it vrcre not possible for him to
be in daily attendance, the presiding judge and the county commissioners'
court were to fill such vacancy, Tha Constitution of 1848 made the clerk
.of the circuit court an elective officer of the county electorate with a
four-year term. This arrangement continues until the present,-^

The clerk is able to perform the several duties of his office with
the aid of his staff vj-hich consists of assistants and deputy clerks vfho
are Appointed by him in a number determined by rule of the circuit court .^^
This order is entered as of record and the compensation of such assistants
and deputies is set by the coimty board, l-'-

1. L,1905, p, 147,

2. R.S.1845, p, 146,147; R.S.1874, p, 260.

3. L. 1875-74, p. 95

4. Constitution of 1818, Art. IV, sec. 6; R.L.1835, p. 152; R.S.1845,
p. 146,147.

5. L,1819, p, 349.

6. R.L.18"29, p. 44; R,L,1853, p, 152; R ,3,1845, p, 147

7. R.L.1827, p. 248.

8. R.S.1874, p. 616; L.1923, p. 423,

9. Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec, 29; Constitution of 1870, Art. X,
sec. 9,

10. L,1831, p, 49; Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 9.

11. Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 9,

- 139 -
Circuit Court (Next entry 209, p. 14C)

Among the records kept ty the clerk for the circuit court are the
f ollowing:!

1. Books of record of the proceedings and judgments of
the court, with alphabetical indexes 'by parties. Pro-
ceedings are recorded at length only in cases desig-
nated 'by law, or when the court, at the motion and
assumption of expense by one of the parties, so orders.
In practice, the court record has been broken down from
an early date into segregated types of proceedings and
judgments.

2. "Plaintiff-Defendant Index to Court Records" and "Defendant-
Plaintiff Index to Court Records." Intended to be separate
records, but frequently combined in a single vol\ime with
the two indexes segregated in each vol^ome.

3. A general docket, in which all suits are entered in the
order they are commenced,

4. A judgment and execution docket, containing a column for
the entry of satisfaction or other disposition. In prac-
tice, an execution docket is frequently set up independently.

5. Additional dockets, designated as the clerk's, judge's, and
bar docket. In practice, the bar docket has tended to drop
out of use.

5. A fee book, in which costs and fees are to be entered under
the proper title of the case. In practice separate series
of volumes are maintained under such titles of causes.

7. Transcripts of proceedings in appeals from justices',
city and foreign courts, dockets thereof, and transcripts
of judgment for liens, etc., from the former. Separate
well-bound books are required to be kept for each city
court which are to contain an alphabetical docket of all
judgment decrees rendered in the city court. The books
also provide entries of data relating to the filing of the
transcriot with the corresponding number of the transcript .'=^

8. Naturalization oroceedings, from petitions to final certif-
icates; Federal Statutes allowing the circuit court to
exercise jurisdiction.

9. Reports to the court from its designated masters ip chancery,
the state's attorney, and the coroner's inquest juries,

10, Jury venires, summonses, certificates, etc.

1. The Civil Practice Act of 1933 grants authority to the circuit courts,
subject to rules promulgated by the supreme court and not inconsistent
with statutory requirements, to make such rules as they may deem exped-
ient, regulating dockets and calendars of said court, L.1933, p. 785.

2. R. 5.1874, p. 347; L.1901, p. 136.

- 140 -

Circuit Court - Proceedings
of Court

(209-212)

11.

12.

Original documents used in court hearings and deter-
minations. These documents are of particular im--
portance because in a large number of cases the com-
plete proceedings are not spread on court records
Monthly reports of the warden of the county jail,,
containing a list of all prisoners in his custody,
showing causes of commitment and persons by whom
committed, -'-

Proceedings of Court
Case Papers

209. COMMON LAW CASES, 1836--. 1140 f.b. (1-270, 313-474, 1-708).
Title varies: Circuit Court Papers.

Papers filed in common law cases, including complaints, summonses, execu-
tions^. exhibits, judgments, appeals, . transcripts, and court orders^ Arr.
chron, . Hdw. and typed. 9 x 5 x 13 - 7 x 5 x 10. F.b. 1-270, 313-474,
1836-1903, southeast strm. , bsmt.; f.b. 1-708, 1904 — , cir, elk, 's off,,
1st fl,

210. INDEX TO COURT PAPERS, COMMON LAW, 1836—. 3 v. (1-3).

Index to common law cases, showing names of plaintiff and defendant , .and
file box and case numbers. Arr. alph. by names of plaintiff and defendant,
Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 600 p. 18 x 12 x 2-|, Cir, elk, »s off., 1st fl,

211. CIRCUIT COURT PAPERS, CHANCERY, 1839—. 1017 f.b. (1-1017).
Papers filed in chancery cases, including complaints, summonses, . decrees
of divorce and foreclosure, transcripts, and court orders. Arr^ chron,
Hdw, and typed on pr. fm, 9 x 5 x 13. Cir, elk. 's off,, 1st f 1, .

212. INDEX TO DISPOSED OP COURT FILES, CHANCERY, 1839—. 3 v. (1-3),
Index to chancery court papers, showing names of plaintiff and defendant,
and case and file box numbers. Arr. alph. by names of plaintiff and de-
fendant, Hdw, under pr. hdgs. 400 p. 18 x 12 x 2-5-c Cir, elk. 's off,,
1st fl.

1, R.L.1827, p. 217; R.S.1845, p., 57,323-26,414,418,419.518; 1,1865.
p. 79,80; L. 1871-72, p. 325; R,S,1874,.p. 262,263, 339,616; L.1877,
p. 77; L.1895, p. 217; L. 1933 , p. 378-80,677; U.S.S.1902, p, 153-55;
U.S.R.S.1874, p. 378-80; U.S.S.1906, p. 597-607; U.S.S.1906, p, 709,
710; U.5.S.1929, p. 154,155,

- 141 -
Circuit Court - Proceedings (213-218)

of Court

213. CIRCUIT COURT PAPERS, CRIMINAL LAW, 1837—. 80 f.b. (40 not
num'bered, 1-40).

Papers filed in criminal cases, including indictments, true 'bills, reports
of grand jury, verdicts of Jury, summonses, appeals, recognizance bonds,
and orders of court. Includes Appeal Bonds, 1837-1927, entry 249. Arr.
chron. Hd?/. and typed on pr. fm. 7 x 5 x 10 - 9 x 5 x 13. 40 f.'b. not
numbered, 1837-1903, southeast strm., bsmt.; f.b. 1-40, 1904 — , cir.
clk.'s off., 1st fl.

214. INDEX, CRIMINAL FILES, 1837—. 1 v. (2).

Index to circuit court criminal papers, showing name of defendant, and
file "box and case nujiibers. Arr, alph. by name of defendant, Hdw, under
pr, hdgs, 400 p. 18 x 12 x 2^. Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

215. MECHANICS' LIENS, 1887--, 1 wooden box, 2 f.b.

Mechanics' liens for labor and material, showing description of property
owned by defendant, itemized list of material and labor furnished, date,
total of bill less any amounts credited, notarial acknowledgment, and date
of filing. Arr. alph. by name of defendant. No index, Hdw, and typed
on pr, fm. Wooden box, 18 x 20 x 24; f.b., 6 x 9 x 13, 1 T/ooden box,
1887-1932, southeast strm., bsmt.; 2 f.b., 1953 — , cir. clk.'s off.,
1st fl.

Records

216. PLAINTIFF - DEFENDANTS' INDEX, 1865—. 18 v. (A-I, plaintiff;
A- 1, defendant).

Index to common lav/, criminal, and chancery records, showing case number,
names of defendant and plaintiff, kind of action,^ term date commenced and
disposed of, record book and page numbers, date of judgment, and volume and
page numbers of judgment docket and fee book, Arr, alph, by name of defend-
ant. Hdw. under pr, hdgs, 600 p, 18 x 12 x 3, Cir, clk.'s off., 1st fl,

217. COMMON LAW RECORDS, 1841—. 48 v. (1-48). 1833-40 in (Circuit
Court Record), entry 220.

Record of common law cases, showing term date, case n\imber, names of plain-
tiff, defendant, and attorneys, cause of action, proceedings, and orders of
court. Also contains Criminal Records, 1841-67, entry 219, and Mechanics'
Liens, 1841-86, entry 222. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by names of plain-
tiff and defendant; for sep. index, 1865—, see entry 216. 1841-1906,
hdw.;_ 1907—, typed. 530 p. 18 x 12 x 3. Cir. clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

218. CHANCERY RECORDS, 1841—. 140 v. (1-140). 1833-40 in (Circuit
Court Record), entry 220.

Record of chancery cases, showing names of plaintiff, defendant, and at-
torneys, cause of action, proceedings, and court orders, Arr, chron. In-
dexed alpho by names of plaintiff and defendant; for sep, index, 1865 — ,
see entry 216, 1841-1916, hdw,; 1917—, typed, 600 p, 18 x 12 x 3, Cir,
clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

- 142 -
Circuit Court - Proceedings (219-224)

of Court

219. CRIMINAL RECORDS, 1868—. 27 v. (1-27). 1833-40 in (Circuit
Court Record), entry 220; 1841-67 in Common Law Records, entry
217.

Record of criminal cases, showing term date, case numter, names of plain-
tiff, defendant, and attorneys, cause of action, proceedings, and court
orders. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of defendant; for sep. index,
see entry 216. 1868-1915, hdw. ; 1916—, typed. 600 p. 18 x 12 x 3.
Cir. elk. 's off. annex, 1st fl,

220. (CIRCUIT COURT RECORD), 1835-40. 1 v. Prior records cannot be
located.

Record of common law, criminal, and chancery cases, showing term date,
case number, names of plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys, action, and
orders of court. Contains Common Law Records, entry 217; Chancery Rec-
ords, entry 218; and Criminal Records, entry 219. Arr. chron. No index.
Hdw. 150 p. 12 X 9 X 1. West strm. , 4th fl.

221. EVIDENCE RECORD, 1885—. 155 v.

Transcripts of plaintiffs' and defendants' evidence as taken by court
reporter, and judge's ruling as to objections. Arr. by case no. Indexed
alph. by naries of plaintiff and defendant. 1885-1913, hdw.; 1914—,
typed. 200 p. 11 x 8 x 2. 121 v., 1885-1930, southeast strm., bsmt.;
54 v., 1931—, cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

222. MECHANICS' LIENS, 1887—. 4 v. (1-4). 1841-86 in Comrion Law
Records, entry 217.

Record of mechanics' liens, showing names of parties, amount and nature of
claim, description of property, and acknowledgment of satisfactions; also
contains records of liens on gets. Arr. chron. Indexed idph. by names of
plaintiff and defendant. Hdw. under pr, hdgs. 129 p. 12 x 15^ x 2. Cir.
elk. 's off., 1st fl.

223. CONFESSION RECORD, 1894—. 4 v. (22, 40, 44, 46).

Record of judgments by confession, showing date, case number, n-imes of
plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys, cognovit, fiiount of debt, judgment
entered, and order for execution. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of
defendant. Hdw. on pr. fn. 640 p. 18 x 12 x 5. Cir. clk.'s off.
annex, 1st fl.

For docket entries of judgment by confession, see entry 256.

224. COURT RECORD DEFAULTS, 1859-78. 1 v. Discontinued.

Record of cases in which defendant defaulted, showing nnnes of plaintiff
and defendant, dates to appear in court, and court orders. Arr. chron.
Indexed alph. by name of defendant. Hdw. on pr. fn. 592 p. 18 x 12 x 2.
Southeast strm., bsnt.

For docket entries, see entry 231,

- 143 -
Circuit Court - Transcripts; (225-230)

Dockets

Transcripts

225. TRANSCRIPTS FROM J. P. COURTS, 1841—. 1 Ml., 9 v. (A, 2-9).
Title varies: Transcripts.

Transcripts of proceedings of justice of peace courts, showing case number,
date, names of plaintiff and defendant, cause of action, proceedings,
judgment, and amount of fees and cost. Arr. chron, 1841-1917, no index;
for index, 1918 — , see entry 226, 1841-75, hdv;.; 1876 — , hdw. on pr, fm.
Bdl. 4 X 9 X 3; V. 600 p. 18 X 12 X 3. 1 bdl., 1841-45, clock tovier rm.,
4th fl.; V. A, 2-7, 1846-1912, southeast strm., "bsmt.; v. 8, 9, 1913--,
cir. clk.'s off, annex, 1st fl,

226. INDEX TO CRIMINAL TRANSCRIPTS, 1918--. 1 v. (2).

Index to transcripts from justice of peace courts, showing case number,
date, name of defendant, nature of offense, and court of origin. Arr,
alph, by name of defendant, Hdw, under pr, hdgs, 50 p, 18 x 12 x 1,
Cir, clk,'s off,, 1st fl.

Dockets

227, GENERAL DOCKET, 1871--, 10 v, (1-10). 1831-70 in Judge's Docket,
entry 231.

Docket of common law, criminal, and chancery cases, showing docket number,
term date, and names of plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys. Also con-
tains Entries of Appearance (Docket), 1871-1903, 1908 — , entry 240, Arr.
by case no„ No index, Hdw, under pr, hdgs, 640 p. 18 x 12 x 3, V, 1-7,
1871-1928, southeast strm,, bsmt,; v, 8-10, 1929~, cir, clk,>s off,,
1st fl,

228, JUDGE'S DOCKET, COMON LAW CASES DISPOSED OF, 1903—, 7 v,
1831-1902 in Judge's Docket, entry 231,

Docket of common law cases disposed of, showing term date, case number,
names of plaintiff, defendant, attorneys, and sureties, cause of action,
amount of bond, and orders of court, Arr, by case no. No index, Hdw,
and typed under pr, hdgs, 1000 p, 14 x 12 x 7. Cir, clk,'s off,, annex,
1st fl,

229. JUDGE'S DOCKET, CHANCERY CASES DISPOSED OF, 1894--. 7 v.
1831-93 in Judge's Docket, entry 231,

Docket of chancery cases disposed of, showing term date, case n\:unber, names

of attorneys, plaintiff, and defendant, cause of action, and orders of

court, Arr, by case no. No index, Hdw, and typed under pr, hdgs. 1000 p,
14 X 12 X 6. Cir. clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

230. JUDGE'S DOCKET, CRIMINAL CASES DISPOSED OF, 1904--. 4 v.
1831-1903 in Judge's Docket, entry 231,

Docket of criminal cases disposed of, showing term date, case number,
names of plaintiff, defendant, attorneys, and sureties, cause of action,
amount of bond, and court orders. Arr, by case no. No index, Hdw, and
typed under pr, hdgs, 1000 p, 14 x 12 x 6, Cir, clk,'s off, annex, 1st fl.

- 144 -
Circuit Court - Dockets (231-235)

231. JUDGE'S DOCKET, 1831-1906. 73 v. (31 not labeled, B-Z, 1-17).
Discontinued. Title varies: Circuit Court Docket.

Docket of common law, criminal, and chancery cases, including defaults,
showing date, case niomber, names of plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys,
and action and orders of the court. In three of the unlabeled volumes
from 1841-43, there are orders written and signed "by Stephen A. Doiiglas,
at that time circuit Judge of the 5th Judicial District. Subsequent to
1893, 1902, and 1903 respectively, kept as Judge's Docket, Chancery Cases
Disposed Of, entry 229; Judge's Docket, Common Law Cases Disposed Of, entry
228; and Judge's Docket, Criminal Cases Disposed Of, entry 230. Also con-
tains General Docket, 1831-70, entry 227; Clerk's Docket, 1831-42, entry
235, including Clerk's Docket, Common Law, entry 232, Clerk's Docket -
Chancery, entry 233, and Clerk's Docket Criminal Law, entry 234; and Judg-
ment Docket, 1831-40, entry 236. 1831-57, arr. chron. ; 1858-1906, arr. by
case no. No index, Hdw. under pr. hdrso 150 - 640 p. 17 x 11 x 2| -
12 X 6 X 1. 31 V. not labeled, 1831-57, west strm., 4th fl.; v. B-Z,
1-17, 1858-1906, southeast strm., bsmt.

232. CLERK'S DOCKET, COMMON LAW, 1903—. 7 v. 1831-42 in Judge's
Docket, entry 231; 1843-1902 in Clerk's Docket, entry 235.

Clerk's docket of disposed of court cases, showing term date, names of
plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys, case number, cause of action, file "box,
fee book and page numbers, and dates of commencement and disposition of
case. Arr. by case no. Indexed alph. by names of plaintiff and defendant.
Hdw. and typed under pr. hdgs. 1000 p. 14 x 12 x 6. Cir. clk.'s off.,
annex, 1st fl.

233. CLERIC'S DOCKET - CHANCERY, 1903--. 5 v. 1831-42 in Judge's
Docket, entry 231; 1843-1902 in Clerk's Docket, entry 235.

Clerk's docket of disposed of court cases, showing term date, names of
plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys, case number, cause of action, file
box, fee book and page niombers, and dates of commencement and disposition
of case. Arr. by case no. Indexed alph. by names of plaintiff and de-
fendant. Hdw. and typed under pr. hdgs. 1000 p. 14 x 12 x 6. Cir. elk. ' s
off. annex, 1st fl.

234. CLERK'S DOCKET CRIMINAL LAW, 1903—. 4 v. 1831-42 in Judge's
Docket, entry 231; 1843-1902 in Clerk's Docket, entry 235.

Clerk's docket of disposed of co\irt cases, showing term date, case n\amber,
names of plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys, cause of action, file box,
fee book and page numbers, and dates of commencement and disposition of
case. Arr. by case no. Indexed alph. by name of defendant. Hdw. under
pr. hdgs. 1000 p. 14 x 12 x 6. Cir. elk. ' s off. annex, 1st fl.

235. CLERK'S DOCKET, 1843-1902. 114 v. 1831-42 in Judge's Docket,
entry 231.

Clerk's docket of common law, criminal, and chancery cases, showing term
date, c se number, names of attorneys, plaintiff, and defendant, cause of
action, and coiirt orders. Subsequently kept as Clerk's Docket, Common Law;
entry 232; Clerk's Docket - Chancery, entry 233; and Clerk's Docket Crimi-
nal Law, entry 234. Arr. by case no. No index. 1843-63, hdw.; 1864-1902,
hdw. under pr. hdgs. 200 p. 14 x 9 x 1. 16 v., 1843-69, west strm., 4th
fl.; 98 v., 1870-1902, southeast strm., bsmt.

- 145 -
Circuit Court - Dockets (236-242)

236. JUDGMEIW DOCKET, 1841—. 19 v. (1-19). 1831-40 in Judge's Docket,
entry 231.

Docket of Judgments, including judgments ty confession, showing names of
plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys, case nurnter, action, record and fee
took page numbers, date, amount and against whom judgment entered, and
satisfaction. Also contains Praecipe for Execution (Execution Docket),
1841-78, entry 238. Arr. alph, "by name of person against v/hom judgment
is entered. 1841-64, no index; for index, 1880 — , see entry 237; 1865 — ,
also indirectly indexed in entry 216. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. Paper poor.
370 p. 18 X 12 X 3. Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl,

237. JUDGMENT FOR COSTS (index to Judgment Dockets), 1880—. 4 v.
(1-4).

Index to judgment dockets, showing instrument number, against xihon entered,
record hook, fee hook, and page of entry,, date, and rem.arks. Arr. alph, by
name of plaintiff. Hdw, under pr. hdgs. 480 pc 18 x 12 x 2|-. Cir. elk. 's
off., 1st fl.

238. PRAECIPE FOR EXECUTION (Execution Docket), 1879—. 8 v. 1841-78
in Judgment Docket, entry 236.

Execution docket showing names of plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys,
execution niomber, and date of judgment. Arr. alph. by name of person
against whom judgment is entered. 1879-83, no index; for index, 1884-1909,
see entry 239. 1910 — , indexed alph. by name of defendant. Hdw. on pr.
fm, 150 p. 10 X 14 X 1. 6 v., 1879-1926, southeast strm., bsmt.; 2 v.,
1927—, cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

239. INDEX TO EXECUTION DOCKETS, 1884-1909. 1 v. Discontinued.
Index to execution docket, showing names of plaintiff and defendant, date,
amotmt of fees, and fee book and page of record. Arr. alph. by name of
defendant. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. Writing faded. 100 p. 18 x 12 x 2.
Southeast strn., bsmt.

240. ENTRIES OF APPEARANCE (Docket), 1904-7. 2 v. 1871-1903, 1908—
in General Docket, entry 227.

Appearance docket showing names of court, \7itnesses, and attorneys, at-
torneys' requests to court for subpoena of witnesses, aaid date of notice.
Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. Writing faded. 238 p. 14 x 9 x 1.
Southeast strm., bsmt.

241. BAR DOCKET, 1851-78. 2 v. Discontinued.

Circuit co\rrt docket showing names of plaintiff, defendant, and attorneys,

type of case, tern date, and court order. Since 1873 printed ponphlets

are made up for each terra of coTirt and are not kept as a permanent record.

Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 160 p. 14 x 8-^ x -g. North-
west strm,, 4th fl.

242. STATE'S ATTORNEY'S DOCKET, 1865. 1 v. Discontinued.
General docket showing type of case, names of plaintiff and defendant,
action, and general remarks. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs.
125 p. 14 X 9 X 1. Northwest strm., 4th fl.

- 146 -
Circuit Court - Fee Books; (243-247)

Reports to the Court; Jury
Records

Fee Books
(See also entries 260, 262)

243. FEE BOOKS, 1841—. 39 v. (4 not numbered, 1-55) .
Fees for common law, criminal, and chancery cases and tra,nscripts, shov/ing
case number, najnes of plaintiff and defendant, cause of action, term date,
itemized list of fees, amount, and signature of clerk. Arr. chron. In-
dexed alph. by names of plaintiff and defendant; for sep. index, see entry
216. 1841-63, hdw.; 1864--, hdw. under pr. hdgs. 640 p. 18 x 12 x 3.
4 V. not numbered, v. 1-17, 1841-92, southeast strm., bsnt,; v. 18-35, 1893-
cir. elk. »s off., 1st fl.

Reports to the Court

244. STATE'S ATTORNEY'S REPORTS, 1873--. 2 v. Prior records cannot
be found.

State's attorney's quarterly reports, shov/ing case number, names of de-
fendant and court, amount of fines and fees, and total amount paid to
county treasurer. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 320 p.
18 X 12 X 2. Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

245. MASTER'S REPORTS, 1897—. 1 f.b. Prior records cannot be located.
Reports of master in chancery to circuit court of all moneys received,
showing names of parties, case number, amount on hand, to whom due, signa-
ture of master, and date of filing. Axr. chron. No index. Hdw. and typed.
9 X 5 X 13. Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

Jury Records

(See also entries 1, 10, 22-25,

102, 147, 156, 270, 271)

246. LIST OF GRAND AND PETIT JURORS, 1855—. 3 v. (2 not lettered, Y)
1830-54 in Proceedings of Board of Supervisors, Supervisors' Re-
ports and Record, entry 2.

Lists of jurors, showing nane of Juror, address and to\7nship, number of

calls, and term of court. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs.

250 p. 14 X 10 X li. 2 V. not lettered, 1855-1927, southeast strm.,
bsmt.; V. Y, 1928—, cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

247. REGISTER OF JURY CERTIFICATES, 1859 — . 4 v. (1-4). 1842-58
in Clerk's Receipt and Expenditure Record, entry 259.

Register of jury certificates, shovdng certificate n\LT.ber, date, name of
juror, number of days served, mileage, and amount paid. Arr. chron.
No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 318 p. 16 x 10^ x li. V. 1-3, 1859-
1926, southeast strm., bsmt.; v. 4, 1927—, cir. clk.'s off., Ist fl.

- 147 -
Circuit Coiirt - Bonds; (248-252)

Probation and Parole

Bonds

248. APP0INTM31JTS, OATHS MD BONDS, 1920—. 1 f.t. Prior records
cannot be located.

Appointments, oaths, and bonds of circuit clerks and special deputies,
showing date, names of officer appointed and sureties: amount and obliga-
tions of bond, notarial acknowledgment, and date of filing. Arr. chron.
No index. 9 x 5 x 13. Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

249. APPEAL BONDS, 1928--. 1 f.b. 1837-1927 in Circuit Court Papers,
Criminal Law, entry 213.

Appeal bonds showing names of principal and sureties, ejnount, terms, and
date of bond, signatures of principal and sureties, notarial acknowledg-
ment, and date of filing. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm,
9 X 5 X 13, Cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

250. CRIMINAL RECOGNIZANCE RECORD (Bonds), 1858-90. 1 v.

Record of bonds for appearance in court, shov/ing names of defendant and
sureties, case nujnber, amo\int of bond, and notarial acknowledgment.
Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by neme of defendant. Hdw. on pr. fm. 570 p.
18 X 12 X 2. Southeast strm., bsmt.

For original recognizance bonds 1837 — , see entry 213.

Probation and Parole

251. PROBATION RECORDS (Papers), 1935--. 1 f.d. Prior records cannot
be located.

Probation records showing names of probationer, probation officer, and
court, personal and statistical particulars, nature of crime, court
orders, and condition of probation; also probation officer's monthly
report of supervision, and final order of discharge. Arr. chron. No
index. Hdw. and typed. 3 x 9 x 12. Sh.'s off., 2nd fl.

252. PAROLE RECORD, PENITENTIARY AND REFORM SCHOOL, 1895-98. 1 v.
Discontinued.

Copies of applications for discharge under parole, shcv/ing term of court,
names of parolee, judge, and court officers present, recommendation from
board of pardons, date of conviction, nature of crime, term of sentence,
date of parole from institution, and court order for discharge. Arr.
chron. Indexed alph. by name of parolee. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 600 p.
18 X 12 X 3. Southeast strm., bsmt.

- 148 -
Circuit Court - Naturalization (253-257)

Naturali zat ion
(See also entries 155-159)

253. NATURALIZATION RECORD, 1930—. 2 v.

Record of naturalization including declarations of intention, petitions
for final certificate, and oath, shoring names of alien, witnesses, and
judge. This record is a combination of Naturalization Record, Intention,
entry 254, and Naturalization Recordo, Final, entry 255. Also contains
Naturalization Records, Discharged Soldiers and Minors, entry 256,, and
Naturalization Record, Minors, entry 257. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. hy
name of alien. Hdw. and typed on pr. fm. 200 p. 12 x 9 x 1. Cir, elk, 's
off. annex, 1st fl,

254. NATURALIZATION RECORD, INTENTION, 1856-1929. 7 v. (A, 2 not
lateled, 1-4). Missing: 1898-1901. 1930 — in Naturalization
Record, entry 253.

Record of declaration of intention to tecome naturalized citizen, showing
date, name of alien, age, . nationality, length of residence in the United
States, and certificate of witness. Arr. chron. Indexed alph, by najne
of alien. Hdw. on pr, fm. 300 p. 14 x 9 x 1^. Cir. elk. 's off, annex,
1st fl.

255. NATURALIZATION RECORDS, FINAL, 1860-1929. 8 v. (B, 1 not
labeled, 1-6). Missing: 1898-1908. 1930— in Naturalization
Record, entry 253.

Copies of final naturalization papers, sho^-'ing date, name of alien, nation-
ality, date and manner of entry into the United States, oath, witness
certificate, and notarial acknowledgment. Also contains Naturalization
Records, Discharged Soldiers and Minors, 1876-1929, entry 256, and.
Naturalization Recgrd, Minors, 1899-1929, entry 257, Arr. chron. Indexed
alph. by name of alien. Hdw. on pr. fm. 400 p. 18 x 12 x 2. Cir. elk. 's
off, annex, 1st fl,

256. NATURALIZATION RECORDS, DISCHARGED SOLDIERS AND. MINORS, 1865-
75. 1 V. 1876-1929 in Naturalization Records, Final, entry
255; 1930 — in Naturalization Record, entry 253.

Copies of declarations of intention, petitions, and final papers of
soldiers, showing name of alien, nationality, military service, oath of
allegiance, and date of certificate. Also contains Naturalization Record,
Minors, entry 257, Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of alien. Hdw. on
pr. fm. Writing faded. 500 p. 18 x 12 x 2. Cir, elk. 's off. annex,
1st fl,

257. NATURALIZATION RECORD, MINORS, 1876-98. 1 v, 1865-75 in Natu-
ralization Records, Discharged Soldiers and Minors, entry 256;
1899-1929 in Naturalization Records, Final, entry 255; 1930 — in
Naturalization Record, entry 253,

Copies of petitions, oaths, and certificates for minors, showing. name of
minor, age, nationality, length of residence, and date of issue of certif-
icate, Arr, chron. Indexed alph. by name of minor. Hdw. on pr. fm.
400 p. 18 X 12 X 2. Cir. elk. 's off, annex, 1st fl.

- 149 -
Circuit Court - Office (258-263)

Transactions

258. NATURALIZATION DOCKET, 1870-98. 2 v. (1, 2), Discontinued.
Naturalization docket, showing name of alien, nationality, dates of dec-
laration of intention and petition for naturalization, oath of allegiance,
and court orders granting final certificate. Arr. "by certificate no. No
index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 145 p. 16 x 11 x 1. Southeast strm,, hsmt.

Office Transactions
Receipts and Expenditures

259. CLERK'S RECEIPT AND EXPENDITURE RECORD, 1842--. 11 v, (1-11).
Prior records cannot be located.

Circuit clerk's record of receipts and expenditures, and recorder's record
of fees received for recording instruments, showing case and instrument num-
bers, dates, from whom received or to whom paid, purpose and amotrnt of pay-
ment. Also contains Register of Jury Certificates, 1842-58, entry 247; Fee
Register, 1842-74, entry 260; Receipts and Assignments, Witnesses and Judg-
ments (Witness Fees), 1842-87, entry 262. Arr. chron. No index. 1842-63,
hdw.; 1864~, hdw, under pr. hdgs. 400 p. 18 x 12 x 2. V. 1-9, 1842-1927,
southeast strm., hsmt.; v, 10, 11, 1928 — , cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

260. FEE REGISTER, 1875 — . 11 v. (1-9, 2 not numbered). Title varies:
Funds of Others. 1842-74 in Clerk's Receipt and Expenditure
Record, entry 259.

Register of moneys received for court and other fees, showing date, from
whom received, to whom paid, fee book and page of entry, and total amount
received. Arr. chron. No index, Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 240 p^ 17 x 15 x 1,
V, 1-9, 1875-1922, southeast strm., bsmt.; 2 v. not numbered, 1923 — , cir.
clk.'s off., 1st fl.

261. CANCELLED CHECKS, 1919—. 2 bdl,, 2 f,b.

Cancelled checks showing check number, date, to whom payable, amount, name
of account, and signature of clerk. Arr. by check no. No index, Hdw. on
pr. fm. Bdl, 9 x 9 x 24; f,b. 9 x 5 x 13. Bdl., 1919-26, southeast strm.,
bsmt.; f.b., 1927—, cir. clk,'s off., 1st fl.

Court Business

262. RECEIPTS AND ASSIGNMENTS, WITNESSES xVND JUDGMEOTS (Witness Fees),
1888 — . 7 V. (1-7). 1842-87 in Clerk's Receipt and Expenditure
Record, entry 259.

Record of witness fees, showing names of plaintiff, defendant, payee, and
case, fee book and pa^e of record, and amount paid. Arr^ chron. Indexed
alph, by name of witness. Hdw. on pr. fm, 700 p. 18 x 12,^ x 4, V. 1-4,
1888-1925, southeast strm., bsmt,; v, 5-7, 1926—, cir, clk.'s off. annex,
1st fl.

Correspondence

263. LETTER FILES, 1900—, 25 f .d.

Miscellaneous letters of circuit clerk in reference to court matters
under his jurisdiction. Arr. alph. by name of correspondent. No index,
Hdw, and typed, 3 x 12 x 12, 20 f.d., 1900-1931, southeast strm., bsmt,;
5 f.d.. 1932—. cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

- 150 -

(Next entry 254, p. 151)

VII. SHERIFF

The sheriff, by constitutional provision, has been an elected officer
of Knox County from the organization of the county to the present. 1 The
term of his office was originally set at two years, but is now four years.
His 'bond in this county is required in the sum of $10,000 and must be ap-
proved by the county judge, 2 Memoranda of this bond are entered at large
upon the records of the county court and the hond is filed in the office
of the county clerk. 3 One or more deputies are appointed hy the sheriff
in accordance with the number allowed by rule of the circuit court. Com-
pensation of the deputies is determined by the county board, ^ The sheriff
is also warden of the county jail and has custody and regulation of the
same and of all prisoners.^ To assist him in this administration, the
sheriff appoints a superintendent of the county jail and removes him at
pleasure for neglect of duty or other causes.^

Essentially without change for over one hundred years, the principal
duties of the sheriff are:

1. Acting as conservator of the peace, with power to arrest
offenders on view,

2. Attending, in person or by deputy, all courts of record
(city, county, probate, circuit, and appellate courts)
in his county, and obeying the orders and direction of
the said courts.

3. Serving, executing, and returning all writs, warrants,
processes, orders, and decrees legally directed to him.

4. Selling real or personal property by virtue of execution
or other process.

1. Constitution of 1818, Art. Ill, sec. 11; Constitution of 1843, Art. VII,
sec. 7; Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8; second amendment November
22, 1880, to the Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec, 8; also L.1819,

p. 110; R.S.1874, p. 989.

2. R.S.1874, p. 990. Compare R.L.1827, p, 371. Prior to the organization
of the county court, the sheriff's bond and securities were approved by
the circuit court.

3. R.S.1845, p. 514; R.S.1874, p. 989.

4. R.L.1827,. p. 373; Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 9; Lol845, p. 515;
L.1869, p. 599,

5. L.1819, p. 111,112,160-62,314-17,332,333; L.1821, p. 37,tvi,64; R.L.1827,
p. 247-50; L.1851, p. 103,104,106; R.L,1853, p. 574, 57d; L.1845, p. 10,
19; R.S.1845, p. 133,134,515-17; R.S.1874, p. 616,989-91; L.1881, p. 64,
72; L.1901, p. 137; L.1923, p. 423. The citations include also refer-
ence s~to~^uties not included in the general outline noted above.

6. Ibid.

- 151 -
Sheriff - Process; (264-266)

Jail Records

5, Sending finger prints of crininals to the state bureau of
criminal identification and investigation. ^

In the course of the sheriff's multiple detailed duties included in
these hroad provisions, the follomng records may be kept but do not ap-
pear in Knox Covinty;

1, Receipts of deliver^/ of prisoner in changes of venue,

2, Copies of reports to the county court and circuit court ,2

3, Reports of parmbrokers on loans and articles pavmed.^

The follovd.ng records may be kept and do appear:

1, Register of prisoners.

2, Docket of executions.

3, "Books of Accounts," including records of fees and dis-
bursements.

4, Data of identification, criminal and stolen property.

Process

264. SHERIFF'S PAPERS, 1847-62. 1 bdl.

Sheriff's papers including deeds, jury summonses, fieri facias executions,
and fee bills. Arr, chron. No index. 2x4x9, Clock tower rm., 4th fl,
For subsequent documents, see entries 143, 209, 211, 213,

265. SHERIFF'S EXECUTIOIT DOCKET, 1872—. 6 Vb (2 not nunibcred, 1-4).
Docket of executions, showin[^ case number, names of plaintiff, defendant,
and sheriff, dates of receipt, service, and return, amount of fees earned
and received, dates and amounts of judgment, costs, aiid satisfaction.
Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of def endo.nt , Ildw, under pr. hdgs.
319 p. 15 X 10 X 2. 2 V. not numbered, v, 1, 2, 1872-90, southeast strm.,
bsmt~,; V, 3, 4, 1891—, sh.'s off., 2nd fl.

Jail Rec ords

266. JAIL REGISTER OF KlIOX COUIITY, 1872—, 2 v.
Register of prisoners, slTOv^-ing register number, name of prisoner, personal
and statistical particulars, dates of comm.itment and discharge, nature of
charge, and remarks, Arr. by register no. Indexed alph, by name of pris-
oner. HdvT, under pr, hdgs, 1872-1900, binding poor, 300 p, 18 x 12 x 2,
1872-1900, southeast strm,, bsmt,; 1901—, sh.'s off., 2nd fl.

1. L.1827, p, 311,312,372,373; L,1323, p. 121; L.1S59, p. 14-18, 20;
1,1877, p. 69; L,1905, p. 146; L,1921, p, 500; L.1931, p. 465,

2. L,1319, p. 201,317; L.1821, p, 182; R, L.1827, p. 249,273; L.1845, p. 11;
R.S.1845, p. 305; R.S.1874, p. 568,991,992,1096; L,1907, p. 316-19;
L.1909, p. 301; L.1921, p, 500; L,1923, p. 424; L.1929, p, 549; L.1951,
p, 465; L.1935, p, 187-90.

3. L,1909. p. 301.

- 152 -
Coroner (367-269)

267. SHERIFF'S IDENTIFICATION HECOKD, 1904-6. 1 v. Discontinued.
Identification record showing registration nvunber, date of arrest, name of
prisoner, personal and statistical particulars, nature of crime, and re-
marks. Arr. by register no. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 150 p.
13 X 8 X 1. Southeast strm. , bsmt.

Receipts and Expenditures

268. CASH BOOK, 1899 — . 5 v. Title varies: Register of Funds of
Officers (Receipts and Expenditures).
Ledger of cash received and paid out, showing date, from whom received,
to whom paid, amount, purpose, and remarks. Arr. chron. 1899-1907, in-
dexed alph. by name of account; 1908 — , no index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs.
200 - 400 p. 10 X 16 X 2 - 14 X 10 X 2^. 1 v., 1899-1907, southeast strm.,
bsmt.; 4 v., 1908—, sh.'s off., 2nd fl.

Correspondence

269. SHERIFF'S CORRESPOITOENCE, 1901—. 6 f.b.
Letters to and from the sheriff relating to business and duties of his
office. Arr. alph. by name of correspondent. No index. Hdw. and typed.
12 X 3 X 12. 5 f.b., 1901-30, southeast strm., bsmt.; 1 f.b., 1931 — ,
sh.'s off., 2nd fl.

¥111. COROIffiR

The coroner's office in Knox County has continued in existence from
the date of organization of the coiinty to the present.-^ The coroner is
elected by the county electorate for a four-year term. He receives his
commission from the G-overnor, upon the certification of the county clerk
of his election, and filing of his bond and taking the oath of office. 2
The inquest duties of this official have changed little from a time an-
tecedent to the creation of the county. The coroner acts as a conser-

1. Constitution of 1818, Art. Ill, sec. 11; Constitution of 1370, Art. X,
sec. 8.

2. The office is constitutional and elective (Constitution of 1818,
Art. Ill, sec. 11; Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8). The term,
formerly two years, is now four years (second amendment, November 22,
1880, to Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8).

- 153 -
Coroner (270)

vator of the peace, v/ith poY;ers equal to the sheriff's in that respect,
and serves as a ministerial officer of the courts in the absence or dis-
qualification of the sheriff, and performs all the other duties of the
latter when the office is vacant. 1

The most important function of the coroner is to hold inquests over
the "bodies of persons supposed to have come to their death by violence,
casualty, or any other undue means. Upon notification of such death, the
coroner goes to the place vrhere the body is and takes charge of the same,
and summons a jury of six men of the neighborhood in which the body was
found. The jury is instructed to assemble at the place where the body is
to be at a stated time, and upon view of the body to inquire into the
cause and manner of the death. If the inquest is continued and a vacancy
occurs on the jury, the coroner is allowed to fill such vacancy. 2

To the custody of the clerk of the circuit court are returned the
verdict of the jury, and such recognizances as may be given the coroner
by witnesses whose testimony implicates any person as the unlawful slayer
of the deceased, 3 In his own office, the coroner files and preserves the
record of such testimony. 4 The coroner also keeps one record which he
originates, the "inquest record." This record recapitulates all the data
involved in the entire inquest procedure and includes an inventory and
accounting of the personal property and money of the deceased. 5

Deputy coroners appointed by this official enable him to perform the
duties of his office. The number of deputies is set by rule of the cir-
cuit court and their compensation is determined by the county board of
supervisors. The bond or securities of these assistants are taJcen by the
coroner and the oath to which they each subscribe is filed in the cconty
clerk's office. ^

270. CORONER'S INQUEST PAPERS, 1869—. 4 bdl., 7 f.b. No prior
records could be located.
Coroner's inquest papers showing names of deceased, coroner, jurors, and
witnesses, date, place, and cause of death, sex, age, residence, occupa-
tion of deceased, verdict of coroner's jury, date, list and disposition
of personal effects, and disposition of body. Arr. chron. No index.
Hdw. on pr. fm. Bdl. 9x4x9; f.b. 9 x 4 x 13. 3 bdl., 1869-84,
clock tower rm., 4th fl.; 1 bdl., 1885-1927, southeast strm., bsmt.; 7
f.b., 1928—, cir. clk.'s off., 1st fl.

1.

L.1819, ID. 111,160; L.1821, p. 20-23; L.1825, ?. 65,64; R.L.1827,

p. 246-50,372,373,375; R.S.1845, p. 515-17; R.S.1874, p. 281,282.

2.

L.1821, p. 22-24; R.S.1845, p. 517,518; R.S.1874, id. 282-84; L.1879,

V. 82: L.1907, v. 213: L.1919, p. 403; L.1931, p. 388.

3.

L.1821, p. 24,25; R.S.1845, p. 518; R.S.1874, p. 284.

4.

L.1869, p. 104; R.S.1874, t. 283; L.1907, p. 213; L.1919, p. 293.

5.

L.1821, p. 25,26; R.S.1874, p. 283.

6.

L.1881, p. 63.

- 154 -
State's Attorney (271)

271. CORONER'S RECORD, 1870— 4 v. (l not lettered, B, 2 not
lettered). No prior records could be located.
Record of coroner's inquests, showing date, names of deceased, coroner,,
jurors, and witnesses, minutes of the case, verdict of jury, description
of deceased, inventory and disposition of personal effects, and remarks..
Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of deceased. Hdw. on pr. fm. 150 p.
18 X 12 X 1^. 1 V. not lettered, v. B, 1870-1920, southeast strm., bsmt.
1 V. not lettered, 1921-29, co. elk. ' s off., 1st fl.; 1 v. not lettered,
1930 — , George S. Bowers' off., Bank of Galesburg Bldg.

IX. STATE'S ATTORNEY

The state's attorney in Knox County originally performed his duties
in the courts of the judicial district. ■'■ This officer performed in Knox
as in each of the coxinties of the judicial district, commencing and prose-
cuting in courts of record all actions in ?/hich the people of the state
or of the county were concerned.^ The state's attorney was appointed by
the Governor \intil 1835, when he became an official elected by the General
Assembly. This latter provision remained effective until 1848, when the
state's attorney became an elective officer of the circuit district
electorate. At this time his services . also were expanded to include the
newly created county court. Finally, the present Constitution made the
office elective in and for each county, >5 From the creation of this of-
fice in the state until the present, the state's attorney has continued
to receive his commission from the Governor for. the tenure of his office.
In 1827 his appointment was set at a four-year term, until 1835, when he
was elected by the Assembly for a two-year term. Then, in 1849, the
state's attorney's office became elective by the district electorate
for a four-year term, the first term, however, being only for three years
and ondi:ig in 1852,^ In Knox County the state's attorney receives an
annual salary of $5,500, with an additional $400 paid by the state.
Statutory fee rates are allowed him for convictions on specified offenses
and crimes before justices of the peace, police magistrates, county and

1. R.L.1827, p. 79,80.

2. L.1835, p. 44; R.S.1845, p. 76. . .

3. R.L.1833, p. 98; L.1835, p. 44; Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 21,
28; Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 22; R.S.1874, p. 172.

4. Ibid.

5. R.L.1827, p. 80; L.1835, p. 44; Constitution of 1848, Art. V, sec. 21;
Constitution of 1870, Art. VI, sec. 22.

- 155 -
State's Attorney (Next entry 272, p. 156)

circuit courts. Also, rates are established for preliminary examination
of defendant, for attendance at trials, and for appeals. These several
fees and rates make up a county fund from which is paid his salary^

The duties of the state's attorney are:

1. To commence and prosecute all actions, suits, indict-
ments and prosecutions, civil or criminal, in any
court of record in his county in which the people of
the state or county may be concerned.

2. To prosecute all forfeited bonds and recognizances
and all actions and proceedings for the recovery of
debts, revenues, moneys, fines, penalties, and for-
feitures accruing to the state or his county, or to
any school district in his coiinty; also to prosecute
all suits in his coxinty against railroads or trans-
portation companies, which may be prosecuted in the
name of the people of the State of Illinois.

3. To commence and prosecute all actions and proceedings
brought up by any county officer in his official capacity.

4. To defend all actions and proceedings brought against his
county or against any county or state officer in his of-
ficial capacity, in his county.

5. To attend the examination of all persons brought before
any judge on habeas corpus, when the prosecution is in
his county.

6. To attend before justices of the peace and prosecute
charges of felony or misdemeanor for which. the offender
is required to be recognized and to appear before a
court of record when in his power to do so.

7. To give his opinion \Tithout fee or reward, to any county
officer or justice of the peace in his county upon any
question of law relating to any criminal or other matter
in which the people of the state or county may be con-
cerned.

8. To assist the attorney general whenever it may be neces-
sary, and in cases of appeal or writ of error, from his
county to the supreme court, to which it is the duty of
the attorney general to attend, he shall, a reasonable
time before the trial of such appeal or writ of error,
furnish the attorney general with a brief, showing the
nature of the case and the questions involved.

9. To pay all moneys received by him in trust, without de-
lay, to the officer who by law is entitled to the custody
thereof.

10. To perform such other and further duties as may from time
to time be enjoined upon him by law.

1. L. 1871-72, p. 422; L.18"3-74, p. 105; L.1909, p. 231; L.1929. p. 474.

- 156 -
Supervisor of Assessments (272)

11. To appear in all proceedings by collectors of taixes
against delinquent taxpayers for the judgment to sell
real estate, and see that all the necessary preliminary
steps have been legally taken to make the judgment legal
and binding, 1

12. To enforce the collection of all fines, forfeitures and
penalties imposed or inciirred in the courts of record in
his coimty; and report on the collection of these moneys
to the circuit court. 2

For other records of the state's attorney, see entries 242, 244.

272. CASE RECORDS, 1922--. 3 v.
Record of all criminal cases, showing date, case number, names of plain-
tiff, defendant, attorneys, and court, nature of offense, and abstract
of proceedings. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of defendant. Hdw.
100 p. 12 X 13 X 1. State's att.'s off., 2nd fl.

SUPERVISOR OF ASSESSMENTS

The' county supervisor of assessments, with the aid of the township
assessors in Knox County, is responsible for the assessment of property
upon which the tovmship, district, county, state and other taxes are
levied. Principally, these officers annually revise the assessment of
property and correct the same upon complaint, and quadrennially assess
real and personal property. Many statutory provisions have regulated
the assessment function in Knox County. Early laws fixed the value of
the several categories of real and personal property, leaving to the
assessing officer only limited discretion.

In Knox County, property assessments were first made by the county
treasurer from 1830 to 1839.'^ These duties were next performed by the
county assessor, an appointee of the county commissioners' court, until
1844,^ At that date, the county treasurer became ex-officio county
assessor, performing the functions of this office. 5 In 1853 the assess-
or's duties were transferred to the several township assessors upon the
election of the township form of county government." The tov.Tiship

1. R.S.1845. p. 76: R.S.ie74, p. 172.

2. L.1909, p. 342; L. 1911-12. p. 88; L.1929, p. 475.

3. L.1819, p. 315; R.L.1827, p. 328-36.

4. L.1839, p. 4.

5. L.1843. p. 231,237; L.1845. p. 5; L.1849, p. 127.

6. L.1853, p. 16,18,24; L.1855, p. 37; L. 1871-72, p. 19,20,

- 157 -
Supervisor of Assessments (273-276)

assessment officers have principally effected the assessment of property
in their respective townships from the time of the adoption of this form
of government imtil the present. Betv/een 1853 and 1893 the elected town-
ship assessors received the assessment lists from, and reported their assess-
ments to the county clerk. From 1893 to 1898 the elected township toard of
assessors received the forms from and reported their findings to the county
clerk, 1 Finally, in 1898, the legislature created the ex-officio office of
supervisor of assessments, filled "by the county treasurer. From that date
until the present, the township assessment officers have worked under the
direction of, and reported the assessment of property to the county treas-
urer in this ex-officio capacity. 2

For other taxation records, see entries 1, 2, 26-57, 100, 101, 203,
277-287, 298.

273. TAX SCHEDULES, PERSONAL PROPERTY, 1928—. 15 'bdl. Prior
records have teen destroyed.

Tax schedules of personal property compiled ty assessor, showing date,
name of owner, list of personal property, value as returned "by owner,
amount of tax, notarial acknowledgment, and name of owner. Arr. chron.
No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 8i x 15;^ x 12 - 2?. x 15 x 18. Tax
record rm. , bsmt.

274. CHANGES IN REAL ESTATE, 1923—. 7 bdl., 1 f."b. No prior records.
Documents concerning changes in real esta.te affecting assessment rolls,
showing date, names of previous and present ov/ner, and legal description

of property. Arr. chron. No index, Hdw. on pr. fm. Bdl. 3 x 5 x 14;
f.lD. 9 x 5 X 13. Bdl., 1928-34, northeast strm., "bsmt.; f.b., 1935—,
treas.'s off., 1st fl.

275. PERSONAL PROPERTY SCHEDULES, 1933—. 100 tdl. Prior records
destroyed.

Personal property schedules as filed ty owners, showing name and address
of owner, list of personal property, value of each, total value, notarial
acknowledgment, and date of filing. Arr. chron. No index. Hdv/. on pr.
fm. 14 x 9 X 3. 60 bdl., 1933-35, northeast strm., bsmt.; 40 bdl.,
1936—, treas.'s off., 1st fl.

276. LIST OF TAXABLE MEDS, 1937—. 33 f .b. Prior records have been
destroyed.

List of taxable real estate, showing names of tovmship, owner, and assessor,
legal description of property, and line and page number of assessor's books.
Arr. alph. by name of OTmer. No index. Typed under pr. hdgs. 6 x 9 x 18.
Treas.'s off., 1st fl.

1. L.1893, p. 73,74.

2. L.1898, p. 37; L.1903. p. 295,296; L.1932, p. 69.

- 158 -

(Next entry 277, p. 159)

XI. BOABD OF REVIEW

An important aspect of the revenue procedure is the authority for
the review of assessments on property. In Knox County, this pov;er is
exercised hy the hoard of review. The duties of this hoard are essen-
tially to assess, equalize, review or revise the assessment of property.
Early legislation provided for appeals from assessments to the county
administrative body.l The board v/as granted power to revieiv and revise
the assessments on real and personal property.

In 1871 the tov/n hoards were given Jurisdiction to annually revise
the assessments in towns. The county hoard, in accordance with the same
legislation, met annually to:

1. Assess omitted property.

2. Review assessments upon complaint.

3. Hear and determine the application of any person
assessed on property claimed to he exempt from
taxation.

4. Ascertain v/hether the valuations in one town or
district hear Just relation to all the towns or
districts in the county. 2

In 1898 this authority was transferred to the nev/ly created hoard
of review. 3 The hoard of revievif was composed of the chairman of the
county hoard v/ho v/as ex-officio chairman of the hoard of review, the
county clerk, and a citizen appointed hy the Judge. ^ Since 1923 the
hoard has consisted of the chairman of the county hoard as ex-officio
chairman of the hoard of review, and two citizens appointed hy the county
Judge. The members of the board select their ov^ti cleric, 5 The tv;o citi-
zen members of the board are appointed alternately for a two-year terra.
The hoard may reduce or increase the entire assessment of property.

For other taxation records, see entries 1, 2, 26-57, 100, 101,
203, 273-276, 280-287, 298.

1. Appeals were made to the county commissioners' court; L.1839, p. 7;
L.1845, p. 8; R.S.1845, p. 441. Then from 1849 to 1853, the appeals
were made to the county court, and from 1853 to 1898 to the county
board of supervisors. L.1849, p. 207,208; L.1871, p. 22.

2. L.1871, p. 23.

3. L.1898, p. 54; L.1923, p. 496; L.1932, p. 75.

4. L.1898, p. 54.

5. L.1923, p. 496,497.

- 159 -
Collector (277-379)

277. TAXPAYERS' COMPLAINTS BOAED OF REVIEW, 1911—. 9 bdl.
(1911-17, 1922-29, 1931-33), 1 f.b. (1934—). 1630-1910,
1918-21, 1930 in Proceedings of Board of Supervisors (Papers),
entry 1.

Original complaints of taxpayers to board of review, shov.'ing complaint
number, complainant's name and address, legal description of property,
and nature of complaint. Arr. chron. No index. Hdv.'. and typed. Bdl,
9x4x2; f.b. 8 x 8 x 10. Bdl., 1911-33, tax record rm., bsmt.; f.b.,
1934--, treas.'s off., 1st fl.

278. COI.IPLAINT RECORD BOAEID OF REVIEW, 1873—. 13 v. (A-M) . 1830-72
in Proceedings of Board of Siipervisors, Supervisors' Reports and
Record, entry 2.

Transcripts of minutes of the boajrd of review, shov/ing date, members
present, names of complainants, address, legal description of property,
nature of complaints, action, and board inilings. Arr, chron. Indexed
alph. by name of complainant, Hdw. 500 p. 16 x 11 x 2^. V. A-L, 1873-
1934, treas.'s off., 1st fl.; v. M, 1935—, co. clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

279. COJffLAINT DOCKET BOARD OF REVIEW, 1873-85. 3 v. (1-3).
Discontinued.

Docket of tax complaints, showing complaint number, date, name and address
of complainant, legal description of property, natiire of complaint, and
disposition by board. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of complainant.
Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 480 p. 18 x 12 x 2i. Southeast strm,, bsmt.

XII. COLLECTOR

Tax collections in Knox County were first mada ty the sheriff as
ex-officio coxinty collector from 1830 to 1853, v/ith the exception of a
brief period of four years, 1839 to 1843, when the county collector was
an appointee of the county commissioners' court. 1 With the acceptance
of the township form of government in 1853, the county treasurer became
ex-officio collector of taxes. 2 Under this plan, tov/n collectors, elected
in each tov/nship, were required to make collection of resident property
taxes and deliver their books to the county collector, who returned the
said books to the county clerk. 3 The county collector, in turn, was
charged v/ith the collection of the non-resident property taxes. ^ The pro->
vision for the return of the collectors' books to the county clerk was
changed in 1871 when the legislature provided for the county collector to

1. L.1819, p. 168,169,316; L.1821, p. 100; L.1822, p. 80; R.L.1827,
V. 370,374; L.1839, p. 7,8; L.1843, p. 234; L.1853, p. 99.

2. L.1853, p. 14.

3. L.1855, p. 37.

4. L.1853, p. 69,70.

- 160 -
Collector (Next entry 280, p. 161)

annually make a sworn statement to the county clerk, showing the total
amount collected "by him from each kind of tax, the amount received from
each town collector, and the ajnount collected by himself. 1

In 1917 the office of town collector was abolished in counties of
the size of Knox and the county collector hecajiie ex-officio tovra collec-
tor for each of the townships in his county. As tovm collector, the
county collector is required to perform all the duties assigned to town
collectors under existing statutory requirements. 2

The collector annually prepares a delinquent property list and files
the same v/ith the county clerk. He also advertises his intention of ap-
plying for judgment for sale of delinquent lands and lots and is required
to attend in person or by deputy all tajc sales resulting therefrom. The
county clerk, in person or by deputy, is also required to attend all tax
sales. At such tax sales the clerk and collector note and make entry of
all tax sales and forfeitures to the state.

To recapitulate, under statutory provisions, the county collector
collects taxes for the state, county and other governmental agencies;
settles annually v/ith the county board, and pays to the proper authori-
ties the amount in his hands payable to them; and attends all tax sales
in person or by deputy. 3

The county collector is required by statute to keep his records as
collector of taxes separate from his records as county treasurer. 'i The
records of the collector's office include duplicates of receipts issued
to taxpayers, state auditor's and county clerk's certificates of the
collector's settlement with them, duplicates of the collector's reports,
delinquent property records, and tax sale and forfeiture records.

For other taxation records, see entries 1, 2, 26-57, 100, 101,
203, 273-279, 298.

1. L. 1871-72, p. 56,57.

2. L.1917, p. 792; L.1925, p. 605; L.1929, p. 774; L.1931, p. 905;
L.1933, p. 1115.

3. L.1819, p. 317; R.L.1827, p. 373; L.1839, p. 8-12; L.1840, p. 3;
L.1845, p. 9,11; L.1855, p. 67,77,111; L. 1871-72, p. 32; L. 1875-74,
p. 51; L.1911, p. 485; L.1917, p. 664; L.1919, p. 765; L.1950, Sp.
Sess., p. 59; L.1931, p. 747; L.1933, p. 930; L.1955, p. 1149.

4. L.1917. p. 664; L.1930, Sp. Sess., p. 59; L.1935, p. li49.

- 161 -
Collector - Collection and (280-284)

Settlement; Receipts

Collection and Settlement

280. COLLECTOR'S SETTLEMENT RECORD, 1854 — . 8 v.

Coimty collector's record in account v/ith tovmship collectors, showing
names of tovmship and collector, tax spread, total on collectors'- tiooks
to he accounted for, county clerk's fees, personal tax ahated, collector's
commission, amount due treasurer, total amount paid, date of final settle-
ment, and signature of township collector. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw.
under pr. hdgs. 460 p. 15 x 18 x 2. 6 v. , 1854-1925, northeast strm.,
bsmt.; 2 v., 1926--, treas.'s off., 1st fl.

281. lilEMORANLA OF TAXES COLLECTED, 1883--. 9 v. (5 not numtered, 1-4),
11 hdl.

Memoranda of daily collection of taxes, showing date, names of township
and collector, amounts collected and delinquent, and annual recapitulation.
Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 400 p., 9 x 13 x 1 -
17 X 13 X 2. 4 V. not numbered, v. 1-4, 11 bdl., 1883-1935, northeast
strm., hsmt.; 1 v. not numbered, 1936 — , treas.'s off., 1st fl.

282. STATE AMD COUNTY TAX ACCOUNT, DISTRIBUTION OF TAXES, 1911—.
3 V. (1-3). 1845-1910 in Collector's Books, entry 41.

Distribution record of taxes, as distributed from town, railroad, tele-
graph and telephone taxes, showing names of township and city, total tax
levied and collected, commissions, amount paid to state and county treas-
urer, and amount delinquent. Arr. chron. No index. Edxi. under pr. hdgs.
292 p. 17 X 15 X 1^. Treas.'s off., 1st fl.

283. COLLECTORS' ACCOUNTS, 1858-1925. 6 v. (A-F) . Discontinued.
Treasurer's account Vvrith township collectors, showing names of tovmship
and collector, amount to be collected, amount collected and uncollected,
and date credited. Taxes collected by township collectors, 1859-1918,
and by various banks 1919-24; and by the coiinty treasurer as ex-officio
collector, 1925 — . Arr. alph. by name of twp. No index. Edxf. under pr.
hdgs. 200 p. 16 X 11 X 2. Northeast strm., bsmt.

Receipts

284. COLLECTOR'S RECEIPTS, 1849—. 2 bdl. (1849-80), 27 v. (1922),
6 f.b. (1920-35), 2 f.d. (1936—). Missing: 1881-1919.
Real and personal property tax receipts shov/ing date, name of person as-
sessed, description of property, amounts of taxes, date and by v/hom paid,
and signature of collector. Also contains Tax Receipt Book (Railroads),
1849-1910, 1922 — , entry 285. Arr. chron. No index, Bdl. 9 x 4 x 12;
V. 200 p. 16 X 14 X 1; f.b. 18 x 20 x 34; f.d. 12 x 12 x 24. 2 bdl.,
clock tower rm. , 4th fl.; 27 v., southeast strm., bsmt.; 6 f.b., north-
east strm., bsmt.; 2 f.d., treas.'s off., 1st fl.

- 162 -
Treastirer (285-287)

285. TAX RECEIPT BOOK (Railroads), 1911-21. 1 v. 1849-1910, 1922—
in Collector's Receipts, enti'y 284.

Carton copies of tax receipts on railroad property, showing name of
railroad, description of property, amount of tax, and date paid. Arr.
chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 200 p. 14 x 14 x 1. Southeast strm.,
"bsmt.

286. REFUND EHPLICATE PAYMENTS, 1928—. 10 envelopes. Prior records
cannot he located.

Paid tax receipts shov/ing names of township and owner, legal description of
property, equalized value, school district nujnher, amount of tax paid, and
amount refunded. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 3 x 10 x -j.
9 envelopes, 1928-34, northeast strm., hsmt.; 1 envelope, 1935 — , treas.'s
off., 1st fl.

Ahatement

287. ABATEMENT LIST (County and City), 1888--. 46 v. Missing: 1906,
1908, 1914, 1917.
Ahatement lists of real and personal property, showing ovmer's name, equal-
ized value, kind of tax, amount, cause of delinquency, and other remarks.
Personal property arr. alph. "by name of owner; lands and lots arr. hy sec,
twp., and range. No index. Hdv;. under pr. hdgs. 130 p. 14 x 8 x g. 10 v.,
1888-98, clock tower rm., 4th fl.; 33 v. , 1899-1933, northeast strm., bsmt.;
3 v., 1934--, treas.'s off., 1st fl.

XIII. TREASURER

The treasurer in Knox County was first appointed hy the county com-
missioners' court. 1 The appointments v;ere made annually. From 1857 to
the present, the treasurer has heen elected "by the people of the county. 2
He is commissioned by the Governor for a four-year term. 3 The penal sum
of the treasurer's hond and the security are determined hy the county
hoard. 4 Upon request of the treasurer, the hoard designates the hank in
Vifhich the puhlic funds are to he deposited.

1. R.L.1827, p. 329; R.L.1853. p. 515,516.

2. R.L.1837, p. 49,274; L.1845, p. 28; R.S.1845, p. 137; L.1851, p. 144;
Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8,

3. The term was originally set at four years in 1837; R.L>1837, p. 274.
It was then reduced to two years; L.1845, p. 28; L.1851, p. 144. The
office was made constitutional without change of term; Constitution
of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8. Then in 1880, the term was lengthened to
four years; second amendment (ratified November 22, 1880) to the
Constitution of 1870, Art. X, sec. 8.

4. R.L.1827, p. 329; R.S.1874. p. 323. The bond is required to be filed in
the office of the county clerk.

- 163 -
Treasurer - Receipts and (288-290)

Disbursements

In the performance of his duties, the treasurer receives the county-
revenue, keeps custody of its funds, and disburses them in accordance v;ith
orders of the county board or specific authorization of law. He is required
to keep books of accounts of all funds received and disbursed by him, main-
tain a register of county orders countersigned and paid, report annually to
the county board on the financial transactions of his office, and settle his
accounts v/ith the board semiannually.! The last tv;o requirements give rise
to a number of segregated records of accounts beyond strict statutory re-
quirements. In addition, reports are made to the treasurer by other coxinty,
district, public, and semipublic authorities in the process of transacting
business with him; and, finally, a large n-omber of records arise from the
requirements for collectors of taxes to settle their accounts v/ith the
treasurer. 2

Receipts and Disbursements

288. TREASURER'S FINANCIAL STATBAENTS, 1919—. 1 bdl., 1 f.b. Prior
records cannot be located.

Copies of treasurer's quarterly statements to board of supervisors, showing
dates, items of receipts and expenditures of county funds, ojnount of com-
mission earned, and balance on hand. Arr. chron. No index, Bdl. 3x4x9;
f.b. 10 X 4 X 13. Bdl., 1919, northeast strm., bsmt.; f.b., 1920--, treas.'s
off., 1st fl.

289. COUNTY TREASURER'S CASH BOOK, 1848--. 6 v. (l not numbered, 1-5).
Prior records cannot be located.

Daily cash book of money received and disbursed, showing from whom received,
on what account, amount, date, to whom paid, purpose, and daily balance.
Also contains Cash Ledger, County Treasurer, 1912—, entry 290; Institute
and Non-high School Account, 1861-1924, entry 293; and Trust Funds Account,
1848-1903, entry 294. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 150 -
300 p. 12 X 8 X 1 - 16 X 18 X 1-|, 1 v. not numbered, 1848-52, tax record
rra., bsmt.; v. 1-3, 1853-1912, southeast strm., bsmt.; v. 4, 5, 19ir5 — ,
treas.'s off., 1st fl.

290. CASH LEDGER, COUNTY TREASURER, 1831-1911. 7 v. Title varies:
Treasurers Account Book; Treasurers Journal and County Funds Ac-
count. 1912 — in County Treasurer's Cash Book, entry 289.

Treasurer's account books showing name of account, date and from whom receiv-
ed, date and to whom paid, amount, order number, and balances. Arr. chron.
and alph. by najne of account. 1831-65, 1899-1911, no index; 1886-98, indexed
alph. by names of bank and fujid. 1831-49, hdw.; 1850-1911, hdw. under pr.
hdgs. 1831-73, writing faded, paper poor. 300 - 450 p. 14 x 9 x 1 -
13 x 8 X 1^. 2 v., 1831-85, northwest strm., 4th fl.; 1 v., 1886-94, co.
elk. 's off"!^, 1st fl.; 2 v., 1895-1911, northeast strm., bsmt.

1. R.L.1837, p. 582,583; L.1843, p. 151; R.S.1845, p. 137-59; L.1861,
p. 239,240; R.S.1874, p. 323,324.

2. R.L.1827, p. 333; L.1839, p. 8-10; L.1845, p. 11; L.1895, p. 304;
L.1915, p. 516; L.1933, p. 898.

- 164 -
Treasurer - Special Accounts (291-296)

291. TREASURER'S ACCOUNTS OF BIRTHS AND DEATHS, 1902-3. 1 v. Discon-
tinued.
Record of accounts with registrars of births and deaths, showing name and ad-
dress of registrar, number of "births and deaths reported, order number, and
amount and date paid. Arr. by order no. No index, Hdw. under pr. hdgs.
306 p. 18 X 12 X 1-|. Northeast strm., bsmt.

For registrars' reports of births and deaths to county clerk, see
entry 96.

Special Accounts

School (See also entries
302-304, 317)

292. NON-HIGH SCHOOL FUND, 1917--. 1 v.

Record of receipts and expenditures of the non-high school fund, showing
dates, items of receipts and expendit-ures, from whom received, to whom paid,
amount, and balance available. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs.
175 p. 14 X 9 X 1. Treas.'s off., 1st fl.

293. INSTITUTE AMD NON-HIGH SCHOOL ACCOUNT, 1925—. 1 v. (l). 1861-
1924 in County Treasurer's Cash Book, entry 289.

List of non-high school and institute orders countersigned, shov/ing date,
order number, to whom payable, and amount and date paid. Arr. by order no.
No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 203 p. 15 x 11 x 1. Tpeas.'s off., 1st fl.

Trust

294. TRUST FUNDS ACCOUNT, 1904--. 3 v. (1-3). 1848-1903 in County
Treasurer's Cash Book, entry 289.

Ledger of trust funds, showing date, from whom received, to whom paid, check
number, amount, and balance. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of estate.
Hdw. under pr, hdgs, 296 p. 17 x 15 x r|. Treas.'s off., 1st fl.

Highway (See also entries
2, 6, 320-329)

295. MOTOR FUEL TAX LEDGER, 1928—. 7 bdl., 1 v.

Ledger of motor fuel tax, public works administration, and emergency relief
f-unds, showing date, items of receipts and expenditures, outside source
receipts, warrant number, to whom paid, amount, and balance on hand. Arr,
chron. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 550 p. 8 x 11 x 1 - 9 x 12 x 2.
7 bdl., 1928-35, northeast strm., bsmt.: 1 v., 1936—, treas.'s off., 1st fl.

296. STATE AID ROAD FUND ACCOUNT, 1915-26. 1 v. No prior records.
Discontinued.

Treasurer's account of money spent on county highway, state aid roads, and
other road improvements, showing kind of improvement, amount spent for each,
date paid, and remarks. Arr. by road and highway no. No index. Hdw,. under
pr. hdgs. 159 p, 17 x 14 x 1. Northeast strm., bsmt.

- 165 -
Treasurer - Coiinty Orders (297-301)

Checks

Dog License (See also
entries 28, 86)

297. SHEEP CLAIMS, 1897—. 2 f .b.

Notarized sheep claims paid from dog license fund, shov/ing names of
claimant and appraiser, date, number of sheep killed, amount claimed,
appraised value, and certification by township supervisor. Arr. chron.
No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 9 x 5 x 18. Treas.'s off., 1st fl.

Inheritance Tax (See also
entry 203)

298. INHERITANCE TAX ACCOUNT, 1911—. 3 v. (1-3). Prior records
cannot be located.

Inheritance tax accounts showing date, items of debits and credits, folio
and check numbers, and balance. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of
estate. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 300 p. 17 x 15 x 1^. Treas.'s off., 1st fl.

County Orders
(See also entries 5-12)

299. REGISTER OF COUNTY ORDERS COmiTERSIGNED, 1853--. 8 v. (2 not
numbered, B-G-) .

Register of all county orders countersigned, showing date, order number,
to whom paid, amoiont, and date of cancellation. Arr. by order no. No
index. 1853-63, hdw.; 1864 — , hdw. under pr. hdgs. 400 p. 16 x 11 x 2.
1 V. not lettered, 1853-63, west strm., 4th fl.; 1 v. not lettered, B-E,
1864-1926, northeast strm., bsmt.; v. F, G, 1927—, treas.'s off., 1st fl.

300. REGISTER OF COUNTY HIGHWAY ORDERS, 1922—. 5 bdl., 1 v. Prior
records cannot be located.

Register of county highway orders, showing order number, to v/hora issued,
amount, and dates of payment and cancellation. Arr. by order nr . No in-
dex. Hdw. Tinder pr. hdgs. Bdl. 17 x 11 x 1; v. 200 p. 18 x 12 x 1.
5 bdl., 1922-35, northeast strm., bsmt.; 1 v., 1936—, treas.'s off., 1st
fl.

Checks
(See also entry 12)

301. CANCELLED VOUCHERS (Checks), 1911—. 6 f.b. Prior records
destroyed.
Cancelled checks showing check number, date, to whom payable, amount, and
from what fund. Arr. by check no. No index. Hdw. on :or. fm. 8x3x9.
5 f.b., 1911-34, southeast strm., bsmt.; 1 f.b,, 1935—, treas.'s off.,
1st fl.

- 166 ~

(Next entry 302, p. 167 ]

XIV. SUPER HIT ENDEIIT OF SCHOOLS

The first school official in Knox County was i
sioner. The principal duties of this officer.

the county school com-
missioner,'^ The principal duties of this officer, an appointee of the
county commissioners.' court, centered around the sale of school lands.
His reports of these sales Yrere made to the county commissioners' court
and recorded by their clerk in a v/ell-bound book kept for that purpose. 2
The school commissioner also reported to the commissioners' court on his
other transactions in regard to the school fund,^ His office became
elective in 1841 »"* In 1845 the office of county superintendent of schools
was created as an ex-officio office of the count;/- school corainissioner ."^
For his ex-officio duties as superintendent of schools, the commissioner
received additional compensation for the days actually engaged in the per-
formance of these duties," Beginning v;ith the year 1847, the school
commissioner vfas elected for a two-year term,''' In 1865 the office of
county superintendent of schools v^as established as an independent office,
and had delegated to it the authority formerly vested in the county school
comniissioner .8

The superintendent of schools is a statutory office, noyt elective for
a term of four years, 9 The superintendent's office serves as the central
school administrative agency for the coujity. One or more of the several
congressional tovmships comprise the several school districts, ViTithin
these administrative units are elected boards of trustees v/ho have ex-
ecutive and financial responsibilities Virhich come under the supervision
of the county superintendent .^^ The boards of trustees appoint their ovm
treasurers who also act as clerks of the toivnship (or school district)
boards ,-'•■'-

The superintendent makes quarterly and annual reports to the countjr
board and also reports to the state superintendent of public instruction,
the state department of public health, the state fire marshal, and the
state architect. His original duties are;

1, Selling tovmship fiuid lands and issuing certificates
therefor .

1, R,L.1S29, p, 150,151,

2, R.L.1829, p, 152,153; L,1S49, p, 155,156,159,160; L.18_51, p. 130.

3, r7l851,"p. 175.

4, L.1341, p. 261,262,

5, Lol845, p, 54,

6, L.1849", p. 178; U1867, p. 161

7, L.1847, p, 120; Lcl84j, p. 154,155,

8, L.1865, p, 112; L.1371-72, p. 702; L,1889, p, 312; L.2_90_9, p, 342,

9, r.ie72, p. 702; L,1900, p, 342; L.1915, p, 623; L. 1923,' p. 596.

10. L.1847, p. 126; L.l"9Q9, p, 350; L.T929_, p, 745,

11. L.1927, p. 843; L.192""9, p. 745,

- 167 -
Superintendent of Schools - (302)

Accounts of School Funds

2. Examining the complete accounts of every to^vnship
treasurer in his county and reporting irregularities
of the township trustees.

3. Conducting a teachers' institute, holding quarterly
examinations for teachers' certificates, and iss\iing
such.

4. Holding examinations for normal and university scholarships.

5. Visiting the public schools in the county, observing
methods of instruction, making recommendations to
teachers, advising school officers; observing sanitary
and safety conditions, noti faring trustees and state
authorities of unsatisfactory conditions; inspecting
plans and specifications, and approving those meeting
state regulations .-'■

A noteworthy undertaking of the superintendent of schools is the
annual teachers' institute « Pioneer legislation of 1869 provided that
the school directors were to allow school teachers to attend the teachers'
institute in their county vnthout the loss of time or pay. 2 Twentv years
later, the superintendent of schools was required to hold the institute
annually. 2 a fund was set up for this purpose which has continued to be
made up of the fees received from applicants for teachers' certificates
and from teachers' registration. The fund is paid out only on the order
of the superintendent to defray the expenses of the annual institute.
VJhen the fund exceeds the annual cost, it nay be paid out for special
meetings of teacliers.^

Accounts of School Funds
(see also entries 292, 293, 317)

302. LEDGER ACCOUNTS (institute and Distributive ?\inds), 1901—.
2 V.
Ledger acco\Hit record of institute and distributive funds, showing date,
receipts and expenditures, from whom received, to vAom paid, and balances.
Also contains Record of Teachers' Pension Fund, 1901-13, entry 303. Arr.
chroh. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 400 p. 17 x 11 x 2. Private
off. of supt. of sch., 3rd fl.

1.

R.S.1845,

p. 498; L.1847, p. 122; L.1849, p. 156; L.1853, p. 246,247;

L.1855, p.

66,67; L,1861, p. 190,191; L.1865, p. 119,120; L.1909,

p. 343-52;

L.1915, p. 635.

2.

L.1869, p.

394; L.1887, p. 297; L.1889, p. 312; L.1909, p. 342.

3.

L.1889, p.

312.

4.

L.19C5, p.

386; L.1931, p. 876.

- 168 -
Super intondont of Schools - (305-308)

Sale of School Lcaidsj District
Records

303. RECORD OF TE/iCin^RS » PEUSIOII FUi'D, 1914—, 3 v. 1901-13 in
Ledger Accoimts (l-nstitutc and Disbributivc Funds), entry 302,

Teachers' pension fund record shovriing name and address of teacher, com-
pulsory or contributory, previous contributions, school year, salary,
deductions, amount, and date of resignation. Arr, alph, by naino of
teacher, Ko index. Hdvj-. imder pr, hd^s. GOO p, 9 x 12 x 3, Off. of
supt , of sch., 5rd f 1 ,

304. (NOIJ-HIGH SCHOOL FUiiD xHCCORD), 1917—. 1 v.

Record of non-high school fund cind proceedings of th.e non-high school
board, shovj-ing receipts and expenditures, from wliem received, to whom
paid, date, amount, purpose, balcjice on hand, names of board m.cmbers, and
minutes of meetings. Arr, chron. No index. Hdw, vinder pr, hdgs. 200 p,
12 X 9 X 1^, Off. of supt. of sch., 3rd fl.

Sale of School Lands

305. SCHOOL COIu.'ISSIOKER'SREPORT, 1832-57, 1 bdl . Discontinued,
School commissioner's reports of sales of school lands, 3hov;-ing names of
cor.imissioners, purchs.ser, and sureties, date of petition, dates and
amounts of bond and sale, and amomits of comr.iissioncr 's receipts and ex-
penditures, Arr, chron, Hdv;-. on -or. fm, 4 x 2-|- x 8vt, Cloch tower m,,
4th fl.

District Records
(See also entry 21)

306, TOVniSIIIP TRE/\SURERS' BONDS, 1084--. 3 f.b,

Tovmship school treasurers' bonds shov/ing names of principal and sureties,
date, amount, and obligations of bond, school trustees' approval, nota-
rial acknowledgment, and date of filing, Arr, chron. No index, "lidw, on
pr. fm. 12 X 4 x 24, Off. of supt, of sch,, center rm,, 3rd fl,

307, RECORD OF DISTRICT ORGAI.^IZATIOIJ jU'iD BOUNDARY CHANGES, 1889—,
1 V,

Record of establisliment of community high schools and proceedings to cliTLnge
school district boixndo.ries, shovmig date and proceedings of meetings, names
of school districts and board members, petitions to change boundCvrics, and
dates and results of elections. Arr, chron. Indexed alph, by name of
school district, Hdv/, 432 p. 18 x 12 x 2tV, Off, of supt, of sch,, 3rd fl,

308, CLAIMS FOR STATE AID, 1925 — . 4 bdl,, 1 f.d. Prior records can-
not be located.

School district claims for sto.tc aid, shovj-ing school district number, value
of school property, tax rate, number of class rooms of full time teachers,
number of pupils, basis for computing quota, general apportionment, amount
claimed, oath of the clerk of the school board, notarial acloiovirledgment,
and date of filing, Arr, chron. No index, lidvr, on pr. fm, Bdl,
2 x 8 X 14; f,d, 12 x 16 x 24, Off, of supt. of sch., 3rd fl.

- 169 -
S-aperintendent of Schools - Teachers' (309-315)

Records; Pupil Records; Reports

Teachers' Records

309. RECORD OF TEACHERS' EXAMINATION, 1898—. 6 v. (l, A-E) .
Record of examinations of applicants for teachers' certificates, showing
name, address, age, and nativity of teacher, years taught, grades of sub-
jects, final average, date and grade of certificate, and remarks. Arr.
chron. Indexed alph. by name of teacher. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 600 p.
20 X 19 X 3. Off. of supt. of sch., 3rd fl.

310. TEACHERS' PERMANENT RECORD, 1914 — . 2 f.b.

Teachers' permanent record showing name and address of teacher, name and
address of schools attended, dates of attendance, degrees, date of birth,
type and date of certificate, date of registration or renewal, teaching
and pension record, school district n^umber, and salary. Arr. alph. by name
of teacher. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 7 x 9 x 18. Off. of supt. of
sch., 3rd fl.

311. PROCEEDINGS OF TEACHERS' INSTITUTE, 1361-95. 1 v. Discontinued.
Minutes of institute meetings, programs, and discussion of subjects to be
studied, shovi^ing names of teachers present, date of meeting, and signature
of superintendent; also contains newspaper clippings of notices and
programs pasted on pages. Arr. chron. No index. Printed and hdw. 300 p.
9| X 7| X 1^. Off. of supt. of sch., 3rd fl.

312. HISTORY OF KNOX COUNTY TEACHERS' LIBRAP.Y, 1875-83. 1 v.
Discontinued.

History of teachers' library, shovjing minutes of meetings, appointment of
committees, donations, date, and name of donor, list of books purchased,
and repairs made to building. The library was organized in 1875 and dis-
banded in 1883. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. 300 p. l\ x 9^^ x If. Off.
of supt. of sch., 3rd fl.

Pupil Records

313. FINAL EXAMINATION 7TH AND 8TH GRADE, 1909--. 9 v.
Examination records showing name and age of pupil, school district, grades
received for various subjects, and final average. Arr. chron. No index.
Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 500 p. 12 x 9 x 2|. Off. of supt. of sch., center
rra., 3rd fl.

Reports

314. TOWNSHIP TRUSTEES' REPORT, 1883--. 6 f.b.

Township school trustees' annual reports to superintendent of schools, show-
ing names of trustees and teachers, number of school district, general and
financial statistics, balance sheet, and date of report. Arr. chron. No
index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 12 x 5 x 24. Off. of supt. of sch., center rm.,
3rd fl.

315. TEACHERS' PENSION REPORTS, 1916 — . 3 f.b.

Reports of superintendent of schools by clerk of school board on teachers'
pension and retirement fund, showing district number, naune of teacher,
teaching experience, salary, ajnount withheld, and dates of report and
filing. Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 12 x 5 x 24. Off. of
supt. of sch., center rm., 3rd fl.

- 170 -
Superintendent of Schools - (316-319)

Maps and Plats; Receipts and
Expenditures

316, TEACHERS' A1T13UAL REPORTS, 1934 — . 7 "bdl. Prior records cannot
■be located.

Teachers' annual reports to superintendent of schools, shov;ing names of
school and teachers, district numbers, number of pupils, average daily
attendance, qualifications of teachers, salary paid, amounts contributed
to pension fiond, number of voliimes in school library, and date of report,
Arr. chron. No index. Hdw on pr. fm. 1 x 8 x 14. Off. of supt. of
sch. , center rm. , 5rd fl. '

317, AlIMJAL REPORTS OF THE COUNTY SUPERINTENDENT OF SCHOOLS, 1884—.
54 V.

Copies of annual reports of superintendent of schools to county board,
covering public school census with dates of terms, enrollments, attendance,
promotions, and number of tuition pupils, and administrative positions
held; status of school libraries, activities for promotion of health and
attendance, list of high schools, and of schools employing two or more
teachers, number of teachers' certificates issued, and number of state
certificates registered; financial reports including amount of tax levies,
outstanding bonds, receipts and expenditures of district institutes, state-
ments of building and township distributive funds, superintendent's dis-
tributive fionds, superintendent's distributive fund, and township loanable
fund, special accounts of funds due, treasurer's statement of distribution
and amount of bond issued, and financial statistics of high schools; real
estate changes affecting school districts; and special statistics on private
schools, public school kindergartens, evening schools, and educational
facilities for the blind, dea.f-mutes, and crippled and delinquent children.
Arr. chron. No index. Hdw. on pr, fm. 40 p, 16 x 12 x -g. Off. of supt.
of sch., 3rd fl.

Maps and Plats
(See also entries 98-100)

318, SCHOOL PLAT RECORD, 1875--. 2 v.
Plats of school districts, as certified by the board of trustees, shovdng
outlines of bo'ondaries, district number, names of school districts and
townships, and minutes of the board of trustees. Arr. chron. Indexed
alph. by name of U'Pp, Hdw. and hand-drai.m. 325 p. 18 x 15 x 1-g. Co,
clk.'s off. annex, 1st fl.

Receipts and Expenditures

319. CASH BOOK, 1901 — , 2 v. Prior records cannot be located.
Record of distributive and perm.-xnent f\mds, showing apportionment for ele-
mentary and high schools, date, amounts received and cjcpended, and balance
available. Arr. chron. No index. 1901-33, hdw.; 1934 — , hdw. under pr.
hdgs. 200 - 400 p. 11^ x 18 x 1 - 16 x 10 x 2. Off. of supt. of sch.,
3rd fl.

- 171 -

(Next entry 320, p. 172)

XV. SUPERINTENDENT OF HIGHWAYS

The office of superintendent of highways was first established in
1913 in accordance with the legislation of that year.l Prior to thf.t
date the tovmship boards of hiehw,Ty commissioners effected essentially
those duties since delegated to the authority of the county superin-
tendent of highT;ays.2 The tovmship hoards have continued in existence,
hut their pov^ors are principally subordinated to those of the superin-
tendent of highways.

The superintendent is appointed by the county board. The board
submits a list of three to five candidates to the state department of
public works and buildings, v;hich department examines the candidates to
determine the person best fitted for the office. 3 The s^iccessful candi-
date holds office for six years and is remunerated in a stun fixed by the
county board.

The powers and duties of the superintendent of highways come under
the rules and regulations of the department of public v/orks and build-
ings. The superintendent is, however, subject, upon hearing, to removal
by the county board, and is required to perform such duties as may be
prescribed under the direction of the chief highv/ay engineer of the state. '^
The superintendent exercises supervision over township, county, and state-
aid roads, and bridges and culverts in his county.

His principal duties are:

1. Preparing plans, specifications, and estimates
for all bridges to be built by the county.

2. Supervising the construction and maintenance of
county roads and bridges, and state-aid roadr, .

3. Inspecting the highv/ays and bridges in each to-rin
or district of his county at least once a year.

4. Advising and directing the highway comj; issionerc in
each tovm or district as to the best methods of re-
pair, maintenance, and improvement of highways and
bridges.

5. Approving any purchase in excess of $200 for materials,
machinery, or apparatus to be used in road construction
in any tovm or district. °

1. L.1915, .p. 521.»

2. L.1849, p. 212.

3. Betvfeen the years 1913 and 1921 the list of prospective candidates was
required to be submitted to the state highv/ay commission. L.1913,

p. 524; L.1921, p. 781; L.1933, p. 960.

4. L.1921, p. 781; L.1953, p. 960.

5. L.1915, p. 523-26.

- 172 -
Superintendent of Highways - (320-323)

Constru.ction and Maintenance
Records

He is required to keep the following records:

1. Records of contracts, purchases, and expenditures
authorized "by himself, the county ho.-'.rd, or town-
ship commissions.

2. Maps, plats, 'blueprints, specifications, etc.,
arising in his supervision of roads and hridges,
or the planning of new construction.

3. Accounts of the f\inds handled "by his office.

4. Reports from other officers or "bodies touching
upon the affairs of his office; copies of his
own reports on the a-dministr.-ation of his office;
related papers. 1

Unless otherwise specified, all records of this office are kept in
the office of the superintendent of highways, on the first floor of the
Superintendent of Highways Office Building, Grand Avenue.

Construction and Maintenance Records

320. FLEET OWNERS' MONTHLY CASH RECORD, 1927—. 1 hdl. (1927-31),
2 V. (1932 — ). Title varies: Miscellaneous Accounts.

Fleet ovmers' accounts showing date, schedule, and distance, fuel and op-
erating costs, total direct cost, kind of work, name of operator, and
totals. Arr. chron. No index. 1927-31, hdw. and tjrped on pr. fm.;
1932—, hdw. under pr.. hdgs. Bdl. 9x4x4; v. 175 p. 14 x 11 x 1.

321. CONTRACTS, 1928—. 2 f.d.

Contracts for the cons'i/ruction of state aid-roads, showing names of super-
intendent and contractor, location of project, specifications, materials
to be used, date, amount, and terms of contract. Arr. chron. No index.
Hdw., hdw. on pr. fm. , and typed. 9 x 12 x 24.

322. LABOR REPORTS AND TIIvIE SHEETS, 1926 — . 12 v. Prior records
cannot he located.

Record of time and lahor costs, showing date, name of laborer, number of
hours and days worked, total hours, loads and cubic yards, rate, engi-
neering costs of plans and field work, and total cjnount paid, Arr, chron.
No index. Hdw. 100 p. 17 x 14 x ^.

323. TOMSHIP LABOR ACCOUNTS, 1932. 1 v. Subsequent records kept by
each township.

Record of labor and costs in the various townships, showing date, name of
laborer, amounts paid for labor, grading, maintenance, drainage, bridges,
culverts, fences, gravel spread, and survey. Arr. alph. by name of Urp.
No index. Hdw. 75 p, 9 x 12 x ^.

L.1915, p. 525,526.

- 173 -
Superintendent of HighvTays - (324-330)

Allotments and Claims; Receipts
and Expenditures

Allotments and Claims
(See also entries 2, 6)

324. MOTOR FUEL TAX ALLOTMENTS, 1932--. 1 envelope.

State allotments from gas tax funds, showing date, name of county, and
amount of allotment, Arr. chron. No index. Typed on pr. fm, 9 x 15 x |-.

325. CLAIMS, 1938. 1 f.d,,

Claims against the county highv;ay department, to be allowed "hy the board
of supervisors, showing name of claimant, date, amount, purpose of claim,
and certification by superintendent of highways. Arr. alph« by name of
claimant. No index. Hdw. and typed on pr. fm. 9 x 9 x 14.

326. MOTOR FUEL TAX CLAIMS, 1933--. 1 v.

Claims against motor fuel tax fund, showing date, route and section num-
bers, name of claimant, nature of claim, and amounts paid and available,
Arr. by route and section no. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs, 200 p.
14 X 12 X 1.

Receipts and Expenditures
(See also entries 295, 296)

327. ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE AND PAYABLE , 1929--. 9 v.

Ledger of road fund accounts receivable and payable, showing name of
account, dates, items of. account, amount of invoice, credits,. and balance.
Also contains Cash Book, 1929-32, entry 328. Arr. alph. by name of
account. No index. Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 100 p. 11 x 14 x 1.

328. CASH BOOK, 1933 — . 1 v. 1929-32 in Accounts Receivable and
Payable, entry 327.

Cash acco\int of road funds, showing date, items of receipts and expendi-
tures, amounts of orders issued, appropriations, outside source receipts,
and balance. Arr. by name of account. No index. Hdw. under pr, hdgs,
200 p. 10 x 13 X 1,

329. HIGHWAY MAINTENANCE ACCOUNT, 1933—. 5 v.

Maintenance account records . showing route number, name of. account, item-
ized costs for labor, materials, trucks, shovel, and crusher, total amotmt
paid, and balance available. Arr. by route no. No index. Hdw. under
pr. hdgs. IOC p. 11 X 17 X 1,

330. PLATS OF STATE AID KOATS AND P.W.A, ROADS IN KNOX COUNTY, 1932--.
35 rolls, 535 sheets.

Construction plats of roads in Knox County, showing right of way with
names of adjacent land o\Yners, courses, markers, angles, culverts, fills,
cuts, bridges, creeks, and route and section nmnbers. Authors, 0, W. _
Georlich and E. R. Johnson, Surveyors, Galesburg, Illinois. Hand-drawn.
1 in. to 100 ft.; li in. to 1 mi. 20 x 32, Draftsmen's off., 2nd fl.,
Supt. of Hwys. Off. Bldg. , Grand Avenue.

- 174 -

(331)

XVI . SURVEYOR

The office of surveyor was first established in Illinois in 1819,
the inciimbent having been an appointee of the General Assembly. 1 In
vacation, nominations were made by the county commissioners' court
(county board) to the Governor. 2 From 1835 to 1936, the county surveyor
was an elected officer of the county electorate. 3 Since September 1936,
he has been an appointee of the county board. ^ His appointment is for
a four-year term. Thus, in Knox County, the surveyor was first an ap-
pointee of the General Assembly; second, for little over a century he
was elected; and, finally, under recent legislation, an appointee of
the county board. He takes and subscribes to an oath which is filed in
the county clerk's office.

The surveyor is required by law to make all surveys within the
bounds of his county that he may be called upon to make by the co\inty
board or interested persons. Such surveys include surveys of lands of
persons requesting the same, of additions or subdivisions, and marking
of county lines. Few changes have been made in the original statutory
requirements for the duties of this office. The surveyor may appoint
one or more deputies. Any individual requesting a survey must employ
his own chainmen subject to the approval of the surveyor.

The surveyor is required by law to keep a well-bound book in which
he records all surveys made by him, giving such information as the names
of the persons whose land is surveyed and descriptive data of the sur-
vey. This record is reo^uired to be kept by the surveyor in the re-
corder's office. The surveyor also preserves his field notes and re-
tains copies of plats. ^

331. SURVEYOR'S RECORD, 1831--. 1 v. (4).
Record of surveys, showing names of townships, owner, and surveyor, and
description of land surveyed. Arr. alph. by name of tvfp. No index.
Hdw. and hand-drawn. 600 p. 18 x 12 x 3^. Cir. clk.'s record rra.,
1st fl.

1.

L.1819,

V. 62: L.1821. p. 62; R.L.1829, p. 172; R.L.1833, p. 591.

2.

Ibid.

3.

L.1835,

V. 166; L.1837. p. 558; R.S.1845, p. 524; R.S.1874, p. 456,

1050; L

.1903, p. 349.

4.

L.1933,

p. 1104 (to be effective in 1936).

5.

L.1821,

p. 634; R.L.1829, p. 173; R.L.1833. p. 582,599,600; L.1845,

p. 201;

R.S.1845, p. 524; R.S.1874, p. 1050; L.1885, p. 248; L.1916,

p. 575;

L.1933, p. 1104; R.L.1935, p. 2416.

175 -

(Next entry 332, p, 176]

XVII. DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WELEAHE

Matters relating to public assistance and welfare in the county are
handled hy the department of puhlic welfare, which was established in
1937 as successor to the county commission of public welfare, and its
executive appointee the county superintendent of public welfare. ■'-
This department consists of the superintendent of public welfare and a
staff selected by him in accordance v/ith, and subject to, the approval
of the state department of public welfare.

The county board submits to the said state department a list of five
residents as candidates for the office of superintendents. An eligible
list of these candidates is prepared by the state department by competi-
tive examination and certified to the co\mty board. The board in turn
makes an order appointing one of the eligibles as superintendent of
public welfare. 2

The superintendent is charged with all the executive and administra-
tive duties and responsibilities of the 'department of public welfare. He
is subject to the rules and regulations of, and removal by the state
agency, ^5

This officer has povrer and it is his duty:

1, To have charge and develop plans for the adminis-
tration of old age assistance.

2, To investigate and study problems of assistance,
correction, and general welfare within his county.

3, To cooperate with the state department of public wel-
fare in the operation of welfare plans and policies
in his county,

4, To maintain such records in the manner prescribed
by the state department and file with the said
agency all required reports.

5, To serve as agent and executive officer of the
state department of public welfare in the adminis-
tration of all forms of public assistance adminis-
tered by the said department. "^

All the records of the county department are subject to the inspec-
tion and supervision of the agents of this central authority.

1. L. 1955-36, First Sp. Sess., p. 70-73; 1.1957, p. 451

2. L.1937, p. 451,452.
5. L.1957, p. 452.

4. L. 1935-56, First Sp. Sess., p. 72; 1,1957, p. 452.

- 176 -
Department of Public Welfare (332-335)

The department of Public welfare also serves as the county departinent
for the administration of old age assistance and is subject to the rules
and regulations of the state department. ■'■ Upon receipt of an application
the department makes an investigation of the case. In the course of the
investigation the department is allowed to hold hearings and compel tlie
attendance of v^itnesses and the production of papers and books. 2

The county department for old age assistance keeps such records and
accouits as are prescribed by the state department. All applications and
records in these matters arc considered public records. "^

All records of this department are kept in tlie old age assistance
office, on the third floor of the countv courthouse.

332. CASE RECORDS, 1936--. 10 f.b.

Old age assistance applications and awards, sliowin^, name, address, and
age of applicant, date, livin(\; expenses, financial status, physical con-
dition, and amount of insurance carried and property owned. Arr. by case
no. Typed on pr. fm. 9 x 5 x 13.

333. lilDEX TO CASE RECORDS (Old Age Assistance), 1936—. 3 f.b.

Card indexes to case records, showing name of applicant, address, and case
number. Arr. alph, by name of applicant. Typed. 4 x 5 x 12.

334. IlvVESTIGATORS' CASE LOAD Al'ID STATISTICAL RECORD, 1936--. 3 f.b.
No prior records.

Investigators' card file si^owing name of applicant, address, sex, date of
birth, marital status of applicant, other aid, and approval. Arr. by case
no. No index. Typed. 4 x 5 x 12.

335. CORRESPONDENCE, 1936—. 2 f.b.

Correspondence to and from state office relating to the operations of the
old age assistance office. Arr. chron. No index. Tj^ped. 9 x 5 x 15.

1. L.1935, p. 259; L. 1935-36, First Sp. Sess., p. 54; L.1937, p. 2Qi

2. L. 1935-36, First Sp. Sess., p. 57-59; L_.l_9_37, p. 267,266.

3. L.1957, p. 268.

177 -

(Ne>d; entry 336, p. 178)

XVIII. COUNTY HOME AND HOSPITAL

One phase of public assistance is administered by the coimty home.
All county poorhouses, poor farms and institutions for the support and
care of indigents in Illinois are known as county homes. ■'• County poor-
houses and farms have existed in this state under statutory provisions
for nearly a century. The legislation creating these county establish-
ments for the indigent has changed little since the original enactments.
The county boards of the various counties may establish a county home,
and are granted the following powers:

1. To acquire by purchase, grant, gift or devise, a suitable
tract or tracts upon which to erect and maintain a county
poorhouse and other necessary buildings, and for the es-
tablishment and maintenance of a farm for the emplo^onent
of the poor.

2. To receive gifts and bequests to aid in the erection and
maintenance of the poorhouse, or in the care of the indi-
gents.

3. To make rules or regulations for same.

4. To appoint a keeper of the poorhouse and all necessary
agents and servants for the management and control of
the poorhouse and farm and prescribe their compensation
and duties.

5. To appoint a county physician and prescribe his compensa-
tion and duties.

6. To appoint an agent to have the general supervision sind
charge of all matters in relation to the care and support
of the poor and prescribe his compensation and duties.

7. To make the necessary appropriations for the erection and
maintenance of the county home.^

Records of the county home are prepared and kept by the keeper (super-
intendent) of the said home. He is required to keep an account, showing
the name of each person admitted to the county poorhouse; the time of his
admission and discharge; the place of his birth; whether his dependence
resulted from idiocy, lunacy, intemperance, or other causes, stating the

1.

L.1919,

P-

2.

L.1839,
L.1917,

P-
P'

699; L.1955, p. 1058.

139; R.S.1845, p. 404; L.1861, p. 180; R.S.1874, p. 757;

638j L.1919, p. 698; L.1935, p. 1057,1058.

•- 178 -
County Home and Hospital (335-338)

cause; and is required, at the same time each, year, to file rvith the

county clerk of his county a copy of the same, together with a statement

showing the average number of persons kept in the poorhouse each month
during the year,-'-

All records of the county home and hospital are kept in the office of
the superintendent, on the first floor.

336. ENTRY BLANKS, 1859—. 1 bdl,

Entry_ record showing name of patient, sex, age, color, occupation,
birthplace, residence, by whom sent, and remarks. Arr. chron. No
index. Hdw. on pr. fm. 10 x 8 x 10.

337. ALMSHOUSE HEGISTER, 1859—. 2 v. Missing: 1922-29.
Register of paupers, showing name, sex, e-ge, color, occupation, birth-
place, parentage, residence, education, health, and habits of patient,
dates of admission and discharge, by whom sent, supposed cause of
pauperism, and remarks. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of patient.
Hdw. under pr. hdgs. 272 p. 17 x 15 x l|-.

338. ACCOUNT BOOK, 1931—. 1 v.

Record of accounts with townships, showing names of township and patient,
date admitted, from vhom order was received, amount due, total amount due,
and date of entry. Arr. chron. Indexed alph. by name of twp. Hdw. under
pr. hdgs. 200 p. 10 x 14 x 1.

1. R.S.1874, p. 758.

179 -

APPENDIX

A. (ACTION OF COUNTY BOARD ON TKS RESULTS OF THE ELECTION
OF APRIL 6, 1869, ON REMOVAL OF THE COUITTY SEAT OF KNOX
COUNTY FROM KNOrHLLE TO GALESBURG), May 10-11, 1869.
In Supervisors' Record, entry 2: v. B, p. 458-76.

Resolution adopted. May lOth, that five mem'bers of the Board "be
appointed a committee to investigate the result of the election on the
removal of the county seat and report at this meeting. Supervisors
Lanphere (city of Galesburg), Sanford (Knox tv;p.), Lawrence (Elba
twp.), Sisson (Henderson twp,), and Gross (Lynn t'.«ip.) anpointed.

Objections by supervisors: kr. Sumner wished to be excused because
he thought the Board had no power to appoint such a committee. Ivir,
Charles wished to be excused for similar reasons. Mr, Swigart refused
to vote because the Board had no power to canvass the vote or delegate
such power to a committee: that the action was entirely without authority
of law and he would not vote unless some law or precedent could be pro-
duced; that he was always ready to vote one way or another on any ques-
tion that might arise, where the Board had a legal right to act, but on
this question he would not vote nor did he want to be excused. Mr,
Dossett wished to be excused for reasons given by others, and Mr.
Lawrence and Mr, Wilson were excused for similar reasons,

Mr, Lanphere from special committee appointed yesterday (May lOth)
made the following report:

"To the Honorable Board of Supervisors of Knox County:

"Your committee appointed to investigate and ascertain the result
of the election on the removal of the county seat,, beg leave respectfully
to report, That they have given to the subject such consideration as the
limited time at their disposal was permitted:

"They find that the law providing for the removal of the county
seat, makes no provision for officially determining the result of the
election beyond the simple canvass of the returns made by the several
Boards of election, this canvass to be made by the County Clark and two
justices of the peace,

"The law makes no provision for the issue of any certificate by
the clerk and it sejms to be admitted on all hands in accordance with the
doctrine in the case reported in 20th Illinois that even if such a cer-
tificate had been provided for it would not be entitled to be regarded
as evidence. The Board of Supervisors being absolutely required to per-
form certain duties if the result of the vote has been for removal, and
having other important duties to perform if the result be against re-
moval, and as either by the design or imperfection of the law, no person
has been appointed to determine the result, they are, of necessity put
upon their inquiry.

- 180 -
Appendix

"The most available evidence in the reach of the committee are
the returns of the Boards of Election, in the absence of anything
to contradict the certificates of the Boards of Election, your com-
mittee believe they may properly be taken as prima facie evidence.

"These returns show in the aggregate a majority of 247 against
removal, your committee hov;ever on examing these returns find dis-
closed the startling fact that the tovm of Knox returns 1520 votes
all but 17 against removal, a number more than 3 times the usual
vote of that town, about 3^ times as great as was cast by the same
town 4 years before on the same question. A number about 2|- times
as groat as the number of white males over 20 years of age, residing
in that town less thnji 4 years before, as appears by the census re-
turns.

"The committee believe from their own knowledge of the town, and
from the general opinion, as they hear it expressed, that the growth
of the town of Knox during the 4 years last past, has been far from
rapid. They can but regard such a return as so manifestly false,
on the face of it, as to entitle it to very little consideration in
arriving at the number of votes actually cast in that town. Your
committee are also in possession of affidavits of persons of entire
respectability, which affidavits your committee beg leave to submit
as part of this report, showing that the election in the town of
Knox was conducted not only without any regard to the usual forms
of election, and without the usual safeguards against illegal and
fraudulent voting, but was evidentlj'' intended and arranged for a
fraud from the outset.

"Taking into accoujit, first, the absolutely incredible character
of the returns from the town of Knox and the gross character of the
frauds openly practiced, as appears from the affidavits referred to,
the committee are of the opinion tha,t the returns from the toT/n of
Knox should be entirely set aside as affording no evidence whr.'.tever
of the number of legal votes actually cast in that town.

"What the number of legal voters actually were, or how cast,
your committee can only ascertain by instituting inquiries which
would consume very much more time than has been put at their dis-
posal.

"They are disposed in the absence of other data to take the vote
of last November as a basis, the vote at that time being 633, a num-
ber a little greater than was returned by Mr. Mcrrowan who took the
census 3^ years before the April election, as the number of white
males in that town 20 years of age.

"Your committee think that a number equal to the number of white
males in their 21st year, added to the number of alien white males
over 20, to the number of short residents and the number of those who

~ 181 -
Appendix

are kept from the polls by absence from home, sickness, indifference
to the result aind other causes, is a very large allowance for the
growth of the voting population of the tovm of Knox for that period.
They are also in possession of testimony, that at the November elec-
tion the feeling ran high, extraordinary efforts were made to get out
voters, and many persons not legal voters were allowed to vote. De-
ducting from the returns the excess returned in April over the number
returned in November from the town of Knox, \7hich is 881 ajid the ma-
jority of 247 against removal is converted into a majority of 634 for
removal.

"In all the towns giving majorities for removal, with one exception,
we find a large vote given against removal. Enough perhaps to guard
reasonably well the purity of the polls. From none of these towns has
any complaint come to the knowledge of your committee.

"In most of the towns giving majorities against removal the adverse
vote was small and the opportunity and temptation to illegal voting
had not the usual check of a vigilant opposition, with one exception
these towns cast less votes than were cast in the same towns last Nov-
ember. The exception is the Town of Orange, which cast 18 votes in
excess of the votes cast in November. All the votes in the to\im but
5 being against removal. We are assured on the authority of persons
of the highest respectability, living in that town, that many voters
stayed at home on the day of the April election, and that many illegal
votes were cast. We are informed that one of the oldest and best known
residents of that town, who voted against removal estimated the fraudu-
lent in Orange at 50. Your cominittee have not had the opportiinity to
investigate the true state of facts existing in that tovm or others.
They are however, clearly of the opinion that a thorough investign.tion
of the 19 towns and a purging of the polls would so far as it a-ffected
the result at all, increase to some extent the majority for removal.

"Admitting (an admission favorable to the vote against removal, as
we think) that the legal vote cast in Knox was 639, that the returns
from the 19 other tovms were correct, there remains a majority of 634
for removal. If from this be deducted as some claim should be, the 90
votes cast for town and city officers, by persons who did not vote on
the County Seat Question, the majority is still 544. This majority
can only be overcome by supposing an illegal vote of the amount was
cast in the City of G-alesburg, of this no evidence has been produced.
That in a community where the public sentiment was so unequivocally
one-sided there was unusual temptations and opportunities for fraudu-
lent voting, is true, and it is also true that the vote in April exceed-
ed the vote of November, 714. But on the other hand the following facts
are unquestionably true; first, the elections in Galesbiirg in April
were conducted with full regard to the usual forms. The voters were
all duly registered and no person allowed to vote unless his name was
on the register, except by swearing in his vote, and making the legal
proof of his right. The election was public and open, the number of
votes cast at all times during the day being known to the bystanders,

- 182 -
Appendix

by whom the Judges, clerks and voters could be distinctly seen; second,
all the city officers and Justices and constables were elected at the
same time, as many votes being cast for these officers as the county
seat, the election was sharply contested by rival candidates, each hav-
ing an interest in preventing the frauds attempted by his opponents.
The votes were publically (publicly) counted and the ballots and books
and papers preserved according to law. No extensive frauds could be
committed except with the knowledge of majiy persons. It is well known
that the November Election in the city of G-alesburg failed to call out
a full vote, local causes well understood, but on which the committee
need not dwell, contributed to that result. In consequence of the ex-
tension of the railroad works in G-alesburg, a much greater number of
men were in the railroad employ in April than in November. The vote of
the city of Galesburg, large as it is, is not very greatly in excess
of what might reasonably be calculated on by comparison with other votes
cast in the last 8 years, ojid v/ith the census returns. Considering the
very great apparent growth of the city your committee beg leave in con-
clusion to say that while in the short time since their appointment they
have not been able to ascertain all the facts bearing upon the case, and
to come to such conclusion as v/ould enable them to say with precision
what V7as the exact vote, they are clearly of the opinion thr.t these re-
turns that are entitled to every confidence, show a majority of votes
for removal, and though that majority may be reduced by proving the votes
actually cast, or tendered in the town of Knox, and may perhaps be
further affected by a thorough purging of the polls, there is no proba-
bility that the result would be changed."

All of which is respectfully submitted.

G-. Lanphere
0. M. Gross
H. M. Sisson

(Affidavits of voters of the Tovm of Knox supporting the above re-
port of fraudulent voting in Knoxville, copied on pages 472-75).- Mr.
Clay moved the report of the committee be approved. Carried 14-10. Re-
fusing to vote, 2 (p. 475). (Mr. Sumner and Mr. Charles for similar
reasons refused to vote or be excused). At this time the sheriff of
Knox County who had been in waiting for some time, served upon the Board
of Supervisors a siimmons in chancery in a suit of George Davis vs The
Board of Supervisors of Knox County and James J. Egan (County Clerk),
James W. Temple (Circuit Clerk), and Dennis Clark (County Judge) of Knox
County, Illinois (p. 476). (G-eorge Davis had been elected to the Board
of Supervisors from the city of Galesburg in April 1853 but resigned
September 1863. This case in chancery was comnenced and disposed of in
the June term, 1869. See Chancery Record, volume 9, page 455, entry 218,
this inventory). Venue changed to McDonough County granted by the judge
of the tenth judicial district with all acts and papers as came before
the coiirt (p. 465).

- 183 -

Appendix

B. (DECBEE OF MCDONOUGH CIRCUIT COURT, SZPTEI/iBER TERM 1871,
IN CHAl^TCERY, CHAl^TGS OF VEITUEFROM KNOX COUITTY, ILLINOIS).
Copied as of record, January 30, 1873 in Supervisors'
Record, entry 2: v. C, p. 168-70.

The chairman presented decree of IlcDonough circuit court in the
county seat case and requested its reading "by the clerk.

State of Illinois )

McDonough Co,

)

George Davis et al,

vs

Board of Supervisors

of Knox County, Illinois

et al.

In Chancery

Change of Yenue

from Knox County, Illinois

"This cause coming on to he heard upon the 'bill, answers, replications,
pleadings and evidence and after hearing counsel for the respective parties,
the court finds upon the evidence and adjudges and decrees that a majority
of the legal voters of the county of Knox, did at an election held on the
6th day of April 1869, in said county of Knox, pursuant to an act of the
Legislature of this State, approved March 10, 1869, referred to in the
original and amended 'bill, referred to in this case, vote in favor of re-
moval of the county seat of said county from the city of Knoxville to the
city of Galesburg in said county. That the allegations of the hill are
true, and the said defendants, the Board of Supervisors of Knox County
aforesaid and the clerk of said Board are herehy directed to spread the
results of said election, and of the canvass thereof, upon the records of
the Board of Supervisors of Knox CoTinty and state upon said record, that
the result of said election and canvass thereof was in favor of removal of
the county seat of said county from ICnoxville to the city of Galesburg in
said county, "by a majority of two hundred votes, and said court further
finds and decrees that the return of said election in the toivn of Knox,
purporting to be made by the officers of said election therein, is il-
legal, fraudulent, false and void, and that the result of said canvass of
said election heretofore spread upon the records of the Board of Super-
visors be set aside as incorrect.

"It is further ordered that the fact be stated upon said records of said
Board, That said election resulted in favor of the removal of the County
seat of Knox County from the city of Knoxville to the city of Galesburg
in conformity with this decree. And it is further ordered that the Board
of Supervisors of Knox County pay the costs of this suit, and thereupon
the said defendants ajid each of them pray an appeal to the Supreme Court
of the Central Grand Division of the State of Illinois, which is allowed,
upon the defendants or either of them entering into bond in the penal
sum of $1,000.00 with security which by consent of parties is to be

- 134 -
Appendix

approved by the clerk within 40 days from the rendition of this decree.
Said appeal bond to be continued according to law."

C. L. Higbee.

Certified to by J. N. Pearson, clerk of the circuit court of McDonough
County.

Mr. Ga.le offered the following resolution which was adopted. Re-
solved that the decree of his honor Judge KigDee, rendered in the McDonough
circuit court in the case of George Davis vs Board of Supervisors of Knox
County et al, having been affirmed by the Supreme Court, be spread, upon the
records of this Board and that the c]erk of this Board be directed to cor-
rect the records as ordered by the court in said decree (p. 170).

The decision of the Supreme Court (January Term 1872)-'- in the case of
George Davis vs Board of Supervisors of Knox County et al having been made,
it was, on motion of Mr. Charles, ordered that the decision of the Supreme
Court in said cause be spread upon the records of this Board and be pub-
lished with the proceedings thereof in pamphlet form. The Supreme Court's
decision is copied on pages 173-184,

C. (smOAAEY OF STATE SUPREI/E COURT RULIilGS ON NATURALIZATION
JURISDICTION OF TEE COUNTY COURT, Fj:3ULTrNG FROM KNOXVILLE-
GAIESBURG COUNTY SEAT CONTROVERSY S); January Term 1872, June
Term 1875. In Illinois Rep'.rts, v. 63, p. 405-22, and
V. 77, p. 644-52.

The State Supreme Court in January 1872 upheld the McDonough Circuit
Court on all points except one: the naturalization jurisdiction of the
county court. The citizenship, and consequently the right to vote, of six-
ty-three persons of foreign birth, had been challenged on the grounds that
their naturalization by the county court was in conflict with Federal laws.
The act of Congress of 1802^ had provided with regard to state courts, that
an alien might be admitted to citizenship before a district or circuit court,
or before any court of record having common law jurisdiction. The McDonough
Circuit Court, on the original hearing, held that the county courts of Illi-
nois belonged to the latter category. The Illinois Supreme Court, however.

1. "Board of Supervisors of Knox County et al. vs George Davis et c.l.,"
Illinois Reports, Norman L. Freeman, reporter (Springfield, 1874),
LXIII, 405-22.

2. U.S.S. at Large, 1799-1813, p. 153,155.

- 185 -
Appendix

interpreted common law jurisdiction as an unlimited common la'.v Jurisdic-
tion which county courts in Illinois did not by constitutional privision
or statute possess. Therefore, it was held that the county court of Knox
County did not have jurisdiction to admit the aforesaid sixty-three aliens
to citizenship, and that their votes should have been rejected. But the
results of the election were not substantially affected by this ruling, and
the decree of the lower court was not reversed.

On this one point the Supreme Court in June 1875 reversed itself, find-
ing that the original ruling in the case of Knox County vs Davis, so far as
it held that the county courts in Illinois as organized under the Constitu-
tion of 1848 had no jurisdiction to admit aliens to citizenship, was in
conflict with the weight of authority. By this new ruling the naturaliza-
tion jurisdiction of county courts in Illinois, and in other states with
courts of record similarly organized, was fixed until a subsequent act of
Congress! changed the requirements of courts which might have cognizance
of the naturalization of aliens.

1. See Governmental Organization and Records System esscy, thir. i:iVontory,
p. 47.

- 186

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Osgood, Herbert. The American Colonies in the Seventeenth Century,
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Phelan, James. History of Tennessee. Boston and New York:
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Pollock, Dr. C. L. "Historical Background of the County in Iowa,"
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7/ilhelm, L. W. Local Institutions of Maryland. Baltimore: John
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General

Garner, J. W. Government in United States, Illinois Edition.
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Reed, Alfred. The Territorial Basis of Government Under the State
Constitution. New YorkT PhT D7 Thesis, ~ Columbiarirniversity Press,
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Schultz, 0. T. "The Coroner's Office," Bulletin of National Re-
search Council, Number 64. Washington: National Research Council
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Schuyler, R. L. The Transition in Illinois from British to American
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Legislative Reference Bureau, S. E. Hunnestead, compiler, Bulletin
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1915 to Decem'ber 51st, 1931, M. M. Kehl, compiler. New York:
Municipal Reference Library, 1932,

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193 -

(1810-1849)

CHRONOLOGICAL INDEX

1810-1819

New Records
105-107, 109, 114, 131

1820-1829

New Records
53, 108, 111

Records Beginning in Freceding Decade
105-107, 109, 114, 131

1830-1859

New Records

1, 2, 19, 28, 39, 45, 46, 49, 65-67, 101, 104, 110, 118, 119, 130,
132, 133, 137, 157, 158, 172-174, 178, 182, 190, 195, 209-214,
220, 231, 290, 305, 331

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

53, 105-109, 111, 114, 131

1840-1849

New Records

20, 27, 40, 41, 51, 54, 55, 85, 112, 123, 154. 175-177, 199, 200,
205, 217, 218, 225, 235, 256, 245, 259, 264, 284, 289

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 19, 28, 59, 45, 46, 49, 55, 65-67, 101, 104-111, 114,
118, 119, 130, 152, 133, 137, 157, 158, 172-174, 178, 182,
190, 195, 209-214, 220, 231, 290, 305, 351

- 194 -
Chronological Index (1850-1879)

1850-1859

New Records

5, 7, 9, 18, 21, 50, 56, 57, 70-73, 94, 98, 99, 113, 121, 122, 135,
138, 151, 153, 154, 165, 183, 185, 186, 189, 193, 201, 202, 206-208,
224, 241, 246, 247, 254, 280, 283, 299, 336, 337

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 19, 20, 27, 28, 41, 45, 49, 51, 53-55, 65-67, 85, 101, 104,
105, 107-112, 114, 118, 119, 123, 130, 132-134, 137, 157, 158, 172-
178, 182, 190, 195, 199, 200, 205, 209-214, 217, 218, 225, 231, 235,
236, 243, 259, 264, 284, 289, 290, 505, 331

1860-1869

New Records

8, 14, 29, 30, 81, 83, 84, 115, 120, 124, 136, 166, 167, 179, 197,
216, 219, 242, 250, 255, 256, 270, 311

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 5, 7, 9, 18, 20, 27, 28, 41, 45, 49-51, 53-56, 65-67, 71-73,
85, 94, 98, 99, 101, 104, 107-114, 118, 119, 121-123, 130, 132-135,
137, 151, 153, 154, 157, 158, 155, 172-178, 182, 183, 185, 186, 189,
190, 193, 195, 199-202, 205-214, 217, 218, 224, 225, 231, 235, 236,
241, 243, 246, 247, 254, 259, 264, 280, 283, 284, 289, 290, 299, 331,
336, 337

1870-1879

New Records

10, 22, 26, 31-33, 35, 38, 58-64, 68, 70, 74, 75, 92, 129, 143-146,
149, 150, 152, 159, 184, 191, 194, 196, 198, 227, 238, 244, 257,
258, 260, 265, 266, 271, 278, 279, 312, 318

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 5, 9, 14, 20, 27-30, 41, 45, 49-51, 53, 55, 65-67, 71-73, 83-
85, 94, 98, 99, 101, 104, 107-115, 118-124, 132-135, 137, 151, 153,
154, 157, 158, 165-167, 172-179, 182, 183, 185, 186, 189, 190, 193,
195, 197, 199-202, 205-214, 216-219, 224, 225, 231, 235, 236, 241,
243, 246, 247, 250, 254-256, 259, 270, 280, 283, 284, 289, 290, 299,
311, 331, 336, 337

- 195 -
Chronological Index (1880-1909)

1880-1889

New Records

15, 24, 37, 42, 52, 69, 70, 82, 91, 100, 147, 156, 160, 168, 181,
187, 215, 221, 222, 237, 239, 262, 281, 287, 306, 307, 314, 317

Records Begirjiing in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 20, 22, 26-23, 35, 38, 41, 45, 49-51, 58-68, 71-75,
84, 85, 92, 94, 98, 99, 101, 104, 107-112. 114, 115, 118-124, 129,
132-135, 137, 143-146, 149, 151-104, 157-159, 165-167, 172-179,
182-186, 189-191, 193-201, 205-207, 209-214, 216-219, 225, 227, 231,
235, 236, 238, 243, 244, 246, 247, 250, 254, 255, 257-260, 265, 266,
270, 271, 278-280, 283, 284, 289, 290, 299, 311, 312, 318, 331, 336,
337

1890-1899

New Records

4, 23, 47, 76, 77, 79, 87, 89, 93, 97, 102, 116, 125, 140-142, 148,
169, 180, 188, 223, 229, 245, 252, 268, 297, 309

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 5, 9, 10, 15, 20, 22, 24, 26-31, 33, 35, 37, 41, 42, 45, 49-52,
58-69, 71-75, 82, 84, 85, 92, 94, 99-101, 104, 107, 108, 110, 114,
115, 118, 120-124, 129, 132-135, 137, 143-147, 149, 151-154, 156-160,
165-168, 172-179, 181-187, 190, 191, 193-201, 205-207, 209-219, 221,
222, 225, 227, 231, 235-239, 243, 244, 246, 247, 250, 254, 255, 257-260,
262, 265, 266, 270, 271, 278, 280, 281, 283, 287, 289, 290, 299, 306,
307, 311, 314, 317, 318, 331, 336, 337

1900-1909

• New Reccrds

3, 25, 43, 78, 80, 95, 96, 103, 117, 155, 163, 170, 192, 203, 228,
230, 232-234, 240, 263, 267, 269, 291, 294, 302, 313, 319

- 196 -
Chronological Index (191C-1929)

Records Beginning in Preceding T/ecades

1, 2, 4, 5, 9, 10, 20, 22-24, 26-30, 33, 35, 37, 41, 42, 45, 47,
49-52, 58-63, 65-69, 71-77, 79, 82, 84, 85, 87, 89, 92-94, 97, 99,
102, 104, 107, 103, lie, 114-116, 118, 120-125, 129. 132-135, 137,
140-148, 151-154, 156-160, 165-169, 172-180, 182-188, 19C , 191,
193-201, 205-207, 209-219, 221-223, 225, 227, 229, 231, 235-239,
243-247, 254, 255, 259, 260, 262, 265, 266, 268, 270, 271, 278, 280,
281, 283, 287, 289, 290, 297, 299, 306, 307, 309, 314, 317, 318, 331,
336, 337

1910-1919

New Records

11-13, 36, 126, 128, 164, 226, 261, 277, 282, 285, 288, 292,

296, 298, 301, 303, 304, 310, 315

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 4, 5, 9, 10, 22-30, 35, 37, 41-43, 45, 47, 49-52, 58-53,
65-69, 71-80, 82, 84, 85, 87, 92-97, 99, 103, 104, 107, 108, 110,
114-118, 120-rl25, 129, 132-135, 137, 140-147, 151-154, 156-160, 163,
172-180, 182-186, 188, 190-200, 203, 205-207, 209-219, 221-223,
225, 227-230, 232-234, 236-238, 243-247, 254, 255, 259, 260, 262,
263, 265, 266, 268-271, 278, 280, 281, 283, 287, 289, 290, 294,

297, 299, 302, 306, 307, 309, 313, 314, 317-319, 331, 336, 337

1920-1929

New Records

6, 16, 17, 34, 44, 48, 86, 88, 90, 127, 161, 162, 171, 2C4, 248,
249, 272-274, 266, 293, 295, 300, 308, 316, 320-322, 327

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 4, 5, 9-13, 18, 22-30, 33, 35, 41, 42, 45, 47, 49-52, 58-63,
65-69, 71-78, 84, 85, 87, 92, 93, 95-97, 99, 103, 104, 107, 108,
114-118, 120-126, 132-135, 137, 140-147, 151-154, 156-160. 163, 164,
170, 172-180, 182-186, 188, 190-200, 203, 205-207, 209-219, 221-223,
225-230, 232-234, 236-238, 243-247, 254, 255, 259-263, 265, 266, 268-
271, 277, 278, 280-285, 287-289, 292, 294, 296-299, 301-304, 306,
307, 309, 310, 313-315, 317-319, 331, 336, 337

- 197 -
Chronological Index (1930-1938)

1930—

New Records

139, 251, 253, 275, 276, 323-326, 328-330, 332-335, 338

Records Beginning in Preceding Decades

1, 2, 4-6, 9-13, 17, 22-30, 33-35, 41, 42, 44, 45, 47, 49-52,
58-63, 65-69, 71-78, 84-88, 92, 93, 95-97, 99, 103, 104, 107,
108, 114-118, 120-127, 132-135, 137, 140-147, 151-154, 156, 157,
159-164, 170-180, 182-186, 188, 190-200, 203-207, 209-219, 221-223,
225-230, 232-234, 236-238, 243-249, 259-263, 265, 266, 268-274, 277,
278, 280-282, 284, 286-289, 292-295, 297-304, 306-310, 313-322, 327,
331, 336, 337

198

SUBJECT IKDEX
(Figures refer to inventory numbers unless un-
derscored; underscored figures refer to pages)

(Ata-Alm)

Abatement lists, 44, 287
Abbreviations and symbols

used in inventory, 68, 69
Abingdon, town of, 20
Abstracts

of footings, collector's

books, 42
of land transfers, 131
of taxes, railroad, tele-

graiJh, and telephone,
41, 43
of tovm lot transfers, 130
Accrunts
See also Fees; Fund; Re-
ceipts and expenditures
birth and death

county clerk's, 96
county treasurer's, 291
county collector's vith

township collectors, 280
of county funds

county clerk's, 95
treasurer's, 290
of county home, 338
of county officers,

auditing and exam-
ination of, 42, 75
current, (probate), 178, 196
expense

county offices, 2, 7
election, 102
highway maintenance, 329
inheritance tax, 298
institute and non-high-
schools, 289, 293
mothers' pension, 164
of probate appointees, see

under title of appointee
tax, state and county, 41, 282
with tovmship collectors
county collector's, 280
treasurer's, 283
tov/nship labor, 323
trust funds, 289, 294
Adams County, 5

Administrator (s)
See also Estate; Executor;

Probate court; V/ills
accounts, 178, 195, 196
bonds, 173, 178, 183, 189

additional, 178, 184, 189
de bonis non, bonds of, 178,

184, 189
inventories, 178, 190
letters, 175, 173, 183, 189
miscellaneous record, 178, 184, 189
oaths, 173, 178, 183, 189
petitions, 173, 178, 183, 189

for sale of real estate, 193
public, 125
record (bonds, letters,

oaths, petitions),

178, 183, 189
reports, final, 196
with will annexed, bonds of,
178, 184, 189
Adoption
See also Juvenile
files, 173

index to, 175
Ad-ult probation officer, see

Probation
Affidavits, 103

of enlistment. Civil War, 81
Federal Land Bank, 126
of notice for creditors

to appear, 178, 179
recorded, 142
for tax deeds, 50, 51
v^itness, 143
Agreement, articles of, 142
Agricultural statistics, 70
Agriculture in county, 29
Aliens, see Naturalization
Allotments, motor fuel tax, 6, 324
Almshouse
See also County home; Public

velfarc; Relief
establishment of, 12
register, 337

Subject Index

199 -

(Ame-Bon)

American Red Cross, appro-
priation to, 29
Appeal (s)

"bonds, 213, 249
in courts, 117, 136, 209, 213
Appearance in court, docket

of, 227, 240
Applications

for "blind pension, 13
for discharge under

parole, 252
for marriage license, 69
for mothers' pension, 115
for old age assistance, 332
Appointment

of courthouse "building

committee, 15
of deputies, see Deputy
in pro"bate, see under

title of appointee
Appraisement records, 178, 191
Appropriation for county-
funds, 2, 4, 75
Architects, Register of, 79
Arms, Henry, 14
Army, see Soldiers
Arnold, John, 20, 21
Articles, see Agreements
Assessments
See also Tax
supervisor of, see Supervisor
Assessor

coTonty, see Supervisor

of assessments
township

"bond record, 93
duties, 43, 156, 157
Assignments

of county orders, 1
of interest in estates,
103, 173
index to (173), 175
voluntary, record, 145, 149
Attorney, state's, see

State's attorney
Auditor

correspondence of, 100

reports, 100

state, certificates of, 18

Ba"bcoclc, Edgar, 21n

Ballots, see Election

Bank, tax collection "books, 48

Bar docket, circuit court, 241

Bell, Henry, _9

Bickerdyke, Mother, Memorial

Association, 28
Bills

against county, allov/ed

"by supervisors, 1
of sale, estate, 178, 194
true, sec Indictment
Births
See also "Vital statistics
reports

county clerk's account

of, 96
treasurer's account of, 291
Bishop Hill, Henry County, _7
Blind

education facilities for, 317
examiner, see Examiner
pensions, see Pensions
Board

of roviev/, sec Review

school, see School

of supervisors, County,

see Supervisors
Bond issues, register cf, 17
Bonds

adult prohation offi-
cer's, 137
appeal, 213, 249
assessors', township, 93
circuit clerk's, 138
collectors', township, ^

94, 129
consta"blcs', 86, 92
coroner's, 152
county clerk's, 40, 76,

82, 83
in county court, 143
deputy circuit clerk, 248
justice of peace, _86, 92
of officials, county, 1, 2
of probate appointees, see

under title of appointee
recorder's, 54, 102
recognizance, 145, 213

Sutject Index

- 200 -

(Bon-Chi)

Bonds (continued)
sheriff's, 48, 150
state's attorney's, 50
treasiirers'

county, 44, 45, 162
township, 306
Bounty

soldiers', orders, 8
v/olf, records, 14
Boyington, T.'. W. , 12
Brands, see Marks o.nd

■brands
Bridge (s)
See also Highways; Roads
■bond issues for, 17
construction, 14, 15
and maintenance, of',. 41,

75, 171
inspection, 171
levies for, 26
petition for establish-
ment of, 19
supervision, _55, 56
Brown, Alfred, 19, 20
Brown, J. W. , 21
Brown, Manyweather (Marrl-

weather) , 20, 21,
21n
Brovm, Samuel W. , 21n
Brown, Welcome B., 21n
Bu..',kingham, William E., 21n
B-offalo, New York, 17
Buffvun, Stephen S., 21, 22n
Bunce, James, 21, 21n
Burlington, Iowa, £2, 23

Cadwell, George, _21, 21n
Calkins, Earnest Elmo, 16,
16n, 22, 22n, 26, 26n
Canton, Fulton County, 14
Cash books
See also Journal; Ledger

county clerk's, 170

recorder's, 140

sheriff's, 268

superintendent of high-
ways, 327, 328

superintendent of schools, 319

treasurer's, 289
Cedar tovnship, 22
Census of county, 70

Central Military Tract

Railroad, 23
Certificates
See 0.1 so License
birth, 59

index to , 58
chiropodists', 74, 75
for citizenship, see

Naturalization
death, 62

index to, 61
dentists', 76, 77
of discharge

Federal tax lien, 127
soldiers' and sailors', 124
jury, 9, 10

register of, 247, 259
of levy

road and bridge, 26
school, 26, 27
sheriff's, 123
nurses', 75, 80
osteopaths', 74, 75
physicians', 74, 75
of redemption, sheriff's, 123
of sale, sheriff's, 123
stallion, 82, 128
state auditor's, 18
stillbirth, 59, 62

index to, 61
tax sale, of purchase and

redemption, 49
teachers' , 310
veterinarians', register

of, 75, 78
Chambers, Matthew, 18
Chancery, see Circuit court;

Master-in-chancery
Chattel (s)
See also Personal property
mortgages, see Mortgage
Checks

cancelled, 261, 301
stubs, 12
Chicago and Aurora Rail-
road, 23
Chicago, Burlington and

Quincy Railroad, 23, 29
Chicago and Rock Island

Railroad, 23

- 201

Sutject Index

(Chi-Col)

Children(s)
See also Juvenile
Home and Aid Society

record, 148
Chiropodists' certificates,

74, 75
Circuit

attorney, replaced "by

state's attorney, 50
court

branch, jurisdic-
tion of, 156
clerk(s)

appointment and elec-
tion of, 48, 157,
158
"bond, 158
deputies, 158

duties, 157, 158, 159, 140
ex-officio recorder,

54, 102
letter files, 265
oath, 158
office of, 62, 65
receipts and expendi-
tures, 259
term of office, 158
do eke t s

appearance, 227, 240

tar , 241

chancery, 227, 229, 251,

255, 255
clerk's, 251-255
common law, 227, 228,

251, 252, 255
criminal, 227, 250, 251,

254, 255
execution, 256, 258

index to, 259
general, 227
judge's, 228-251
judgment, 251, 256

index to, 257
state's attorney, 242
exhibits, 209

fee hooks (court costs), 245
files

chancery, 211

index to, 212

common law, 209

index to, 210

criminal, 215

index to, 214

jurisdiction and functions

of, 154-156
plaintiff Tdefendant index, 216

Circuit

court (continued)
records

chancery, 218, 220
common law, 217, 220
confession, 225
criminal, 217, 219, 220
default, 224
evidence, 221
index to, 216
recognizance, 250
required to he kept,

description of, 159, 140
reporters, 156, 157
transcripts, 209, 211, 221
Cities, see under name
cf individual

cities
Civil

cases, see Common law

under Circuit court;
County court
War

enlistments in, 81
patriotism, 29
Claims

against estates, 175, 177,

178, 200, 201
against highway depart-
ment, 525
motor fuel tax, 2, 526
for sheep damages, 297
for state aid for schools, 508
Clark, Dennis, 26
Clark, William M., 22n
Clerk(s)

county, see County clerk
of courts, see under

name of specific court
do eke t s

circuit court, 251-255
county court, 151
Cleveland, Ohio, 17
Collection of taxes, see Tax
Collector(s)
county

accounts with towns, 280, 285
hooks (lists of taxable

property), 59, 41
abstract of footings

of, 42
county treasurer ex-
officio, 44, 159
duties and functions

of, 84, 159, 160

Sutject Index

202 -

(Col-Cor)

Collector(s)

county (continued)
first incumbent, 14
lists of land sold

for taxes, 52, 53, 57
receipts, 284
records, statutory re-
quirements govern-
ing, 160
settlement record, 280
sheriff, first ex-

officio, 159
township
accounts

with county collec-
tor, 280
v/ith county treasurer, 283
■bonds, 94, 129
collections, 44, 159, 281
county collector ex-

officio, 160
Colton, Chauncey S., 18, 25
Commissioner(s)
county
court
See also Supervisors,

County board of
clerk of, 40, 48, 75, 82
duties and powers of,

39, Al, 73, 74
establishment of, 70
first meeting of, 10, 11
members, compensation

and tenure of, 70, 71.
papers, 1
petitions. to, 19
record, 2

reports on dividing coun-
ty into townships, 20
succeeded by county
co-urt, 40, 71, 74
highway, see Highway
school, see School
Commpn law, see Circuit

court; County court
Complaint (s)

in circuit court, 209, 211
against taxes, 1, 2, 277-279
Confession records
circuit court, 223
coTonty court, 145

Conservator (s)
See also Estate; Guardian;

Insanity; Probate court
accounts, 178, 196
bonds, 173, 177, 178, 186,

188, 189
additional, 178, 189
fee book, 205, 206
files, 173, 177
index to, 175
insane record, 178, 180
inventories, 173, 177, 178,

188, 190
letters, 173, 177, 178,

186, 188, 189
oaths, 173, 177, 178,

186, 188, 189
petitions

for appointment, 173,

177, 178, 186, 188, 189
for sale of real estate, 193
record (bonds, oaths,

letters, petitions),
178, 186, 188, 189
reports, 177
Constables
bonds, 92

and oaths, 86
duties, 49, 51
Construction, see Bridge; Highway
Contracts

county, for building

courthouse, 15
highway, construction, 321
Conveyances
See also Deeds; Mortgages
entry book of, 104
Cooley, Zelotes, 13
Copley township, 7_, 22
Copperas Creek, 17
Coroncr(s)
bond, 152

deputies, see Deputy
duties rnd pov/ers of, 49, 50,

51, 152, 153
election of, 152
inquests, 270, 271
oath, 152
office, 62, 6^
record, 271
term of office, 152

203 -

Subject Index

(Cor-Cou)

Corporation (s)
by-laws, 142

charter, amendments to, 142
proposals to form, 142
Correspondence
See also Letters
auditor's, 100
county clerk's, 171
old age assistance, 335
sheriff's, 269
Costs, court, see Fee book

under name of specific
court
Cc\inty boaxd of supervi-
sors, see Supervisors
County clerk(s)

accounts with registrar

of births and deaths, 96
bond, 40, 76, 82, 83
correspondence, 171
check stubs, 12
deputy, see Deputy
duties and powers of, 83-87
ex-officio clerk
of county board of

supervisors, 41, 76, _82
of county court, 48, 76,

82, _86, 117
of probate court, 82, 126
first incumbent, ]^
miscellaneous records, 101, 103
oath, 83
office, 62, 63

expenses, 2, 7
orders, 1, 102
receipts and expenditures,

95, 97
reports to county board,

1, 102
term of office, 82
County collector, see

Collector
Court court

acting as county adminis-
trative body, 19, 71, 74,
76, 82, 112
clerk of

bend, 40, 76, 82, 83

cash book, 170

county clerk ex-officio,

48, 76, 82, 86, 117
duties, 86, 117, 118

County coiirt (continued)
dockets

clerk's, common law and

criminal, 151
execution, 153-155
judge ' s

common law and crim-
inal, 151, 152
insane and feeble-
minded, 152, 156
judgment, 153
justice of the peace, 157
police magistrate's, 158
establishment of, 1_9, 40,

71, 112
fee books (court costs)

common law and criminal, 159
insane, 160
files

common lav/ and criminal, 143
index to, 144
jurisdiction and functions

of, 46, 47, 112-117
records

common law, 145
confession, 145
criminal, 145
default, 145
feeble-minded, 145, 147
insanity, 145, 147
insolvency, voluntary, 149
plaint if f -defendant ,

index to, 146
probation, 145
recognizance, 145
required to be kept,

description of,

117, 118
writs, 143

foreign, 154, 155
County funds, see Funds
County home
See also Almshouse; Public

welfare; Relief
account book, 338
admittance record, 336
establishment of, 20
financed and msinaged

by co\inty board,

59, 177

Subject Index

- 204 -

(Cou-Dep)

County home (continued)
functions of, 59
location and descrip-
tion of, 67
superintendent, see

Superintendent
County hospital, 59, 178
County officers, see Officers
CoTonty offices, see Offices
County orders, see Orders
County property, control

and supervision of, _56
County seat

controversy on removal

of, 23-27, app. A.
court decision in, app. B.
name changed, !&_
petition for removal of, 150
removal of, 20
selection of, 9
County superintendent of

highways, see Super-
intendent
County superintendent of

public v/elfare, see

Superintendent
County superintendent of
schools, see

Superintendent
County surveyor, see Surveyor
County treasiirer, see

Treasurer
Ccort, see Circuit; Com-
missioners, County;
County; Probate
Courthouse

description of, 62
expenses, 2, 7
new, at Galesburg, _^
offices in, 62-66
record, 15
Coy, Benjamin, 7
Coy, Matthew D. , 7
Crane, Edward, 22n
Criminal, see Circuit court;

County court; Indict-
ment; Probation
Crippled children, see

Juvenile, handicaps
Crooks, Asa, 15

Davis, George vs. Knox

County Board of Super-
visors, 26, app. B

Deaf-mutes, educational

facilities for, 317
Death(s)
See also Vital statistics
first in county, 7
reports

county clerk's accounts

of, 96
treasiirer' s accounts, 291
De bonis non, see Administrator
Declaration of intention, see

Naturalization
Decree(s)
See also Orders, court
of divorce, 211
of foreclosure, 211
of McDonough Circuit

Court on removal of
county seat, 26, app. B.
for sale of property

(probate), 178, 193
Deeds
See also Conveyances
entry book of, 104
grantor-grantee index to, 113
indexes, 107-109, 112
master's, 114, 116
miscellaneous, 142
quitclaim, 114, 115
record, 114
for right of v;ay for

public roads, 142
sheriff's, 264
tax affidavits for, 50, 51
uncalled for, 141
warranty, 114, 117
Default records

circuit court, 224

docket entries, 231
county court, 145
Delinquent children
See also Juvenile
educational facilities for,
see Juvenile, handicaps
Delinquent taxes, see Tax
Delong, Julius, 21, 21n
Dentists' certificates, 76, 77
Department of public welfare.

County, see Public welfare
Dependent children, see Juvenile
Deputy

circuit clerk, appoint-
ments, bonds, and oaths

of, 248

- 205 -

Subject Index

(Dep-Est)

Deputy (continued)
coroner, 155
county clerk, appoint-
ment and oaths of, 103
recorder, 102
sheriff, appointments and

oaths of, 103, 150
special, appointments,

honds and oaths, 248
Disbursements, see Receipts

and expienditures
Distribution of taxes,

see Tax
Distributive fund, see

Fund, school
Districts, school, see

School
Divorce decrees, 211
Dockets

court, see under name

of specific court;
also under title of
docket
Doctor, see Physician
Dog

license

fund, see Fund
receipts and tags, 86
tax records, 28
Dolph, Simeon, 15
Douglas, Stephen A., 28, 231
Drainage
See also Swamp lands
commissioners, 57
districts, organization
of, 57
Dunlap, E. P., 22n

Eads, John, 14
Earnings and expenditures,
see Receipts and ex-
penditures
East Galesburg, town of, 29
Edgerton, David, 14
Education
See also School
administration of, 52-54
early provisiohs for, 52
legislation concerning,

52, 53

Edwards River, 15

Edwardsville, Madison County, 18

Egan, Jajnes J., 26

Elba tovmship, 22

Election(s)

ballots, record, of, 87

clerks of, 1, 102

duties, county clerk's, 60, 85

expense accounts, 1, 102

first, 9

Judges of, 1, 102

nominations, objections to, 116

petitions, 90, 103

poll books, 91

precincts of 1849, 20

procedure, jurisdiction in,

73, 74, 75, 116, 135, 136
register of Republiceji

voters, 88
for removal of county seat

from Knoxville to city
of Galesburg, 25-27, app. A.
returns, 85, 91, 103
school, 103
tally sheets, 91
votes, tabular statement of, 89
Emergency relief, see Relief
Entry books

of conveyances, 104
of lands, 105, 106
Estate(s)
See also Administrators;

Conservators; Execu-
tors; G-uardians; Pro-
bate court; Real es-
tate; Wills
appraisement of, 178, 191
assignments of interest in,

103, 173
claims against, 173, 177, 200
dockets, 200, 202
insolvent, record, 178, 181
intestate, administration
of, 125
inventories of, 178, 190
judgments against, 200, 202
papers, 173, 174, 176, 177

index to, 172
sale of - property, 178,

193, 194

206 -

Subject Index

(Est-Fun)

Est ray

notices, 83
record, 84
Evidence, transcripts of,

circuit court, 221
Examinations, see Pupils;

Teachers
Examiner of the blind
appointment, 60
duties, 59, 60
ExecutionCsT

circuit court, 209
do eke t s

circuit court, 236, 238

index to (238), 239
county court, 153, 154
sheriff's, 265
fieri facias, 264
Executor (s)
See also Administrator;
Estate; Probate
court; Wills
accoxints, 178, 195, 196
bonds, 173, 178, 185, 189

additional, 178, 189
inventories, 178, 190
letters, 173, 178, 185, 189
oaths, 173, 178, 185, 189
jetitions, 173, 178,

185, 189
for sale of real estate, 193
record (bonds, letters,

oaths, petitions),

178, 185, 189
reports, final, 196
Exhibits, circuit court, 209
Expenditures, see Receipts

and expenditures
Expense accounts, see Accounts
Explanatory notes to inven-
tory, 68, 69

Farm names, Register of, 125
Federal Land BaJik

affidavits, 126
Federal tax lien notices
and certificates of

discharge, 127
Fee books

conservators', 205, 206
court, see under name

of specific court
guardians', 205, 207
insanity, 160, 205

Feeble-minded

dockets, 152, 156
record, 147
Fees
See also Accounts; Fund;

Receipts and ex-
penditures
probate, 97

receipts for, county clerk's, 101
recorder's, 140, 259
register of, circuit

court, 259, 260
witness, 259, 262
Ferries, operation of, 15
Fieri facias executions, 264
Final papers, see Certificates

under Naturalization
Financial records, see

Accounts; Cash; Fees;
Fund; Journal; Ledger;
Receipts and expenditures
Financial system in county, 42-45
Fines, county clerk's account

of, 101
Forbes, John Murray, 23
Foreclosure
See also Mortgage
decrees, 211
Foreign writs, 154, 155
Forfeiture of land for taxes,

see Tax
Foster, J. M. , 22n
Fox, Samuel, 22
Frakes, Alexander, 7, _8, _9
Franchise, Record of, 3
Frans, Peter, 22n
Fulton Coiinty, 5, 8, 11, 29
Ftind(s)
See also Accounts; Fees;

Receipts and ex-
penditures
county

accounts of

county clerk's, 2, 4, 95

treasurers, 163, 288-290

appropriations for, 4, 74, 75

dog license, claims against, 297

emergency relief, 295

institute, 167, 302, 317

orders against, 293
motor fuel tax

allotments, 6, 324
claims against, 2, 326
orders on, 6, 295

- 807

Subject Index

(Fun-Hig)

Pand(s) (continued)

non-high-school, 292, 304
pension

hlind, warrants on, 11

mothers', 115, 116

teachers', 302, 303
road, 327, 328

appropriations for, 74

state aid, 296
school, 317

distributive, 302, 317, 319

permanent, 319
trust, 289, 294

Gale, George Candee, 24
Gale, Rev. George W. , 16, 17
Gale, W. Selden, 6, 22n,

23, 24, 25
Galena, city of, 9
Galesburg

city of, 6, 12

contestant for county seat,

23-27 , app. A.
county seat removed to,

20, 150
map of, 139
naming of, 17

removal of records to, 27, 28
tract indexes, 110, 133, 134
Colony, 6

organization and settle-
ment of, 16-18
First National Bank, 25
railroad property tax

list, 30, 31
township

land index, 132
map of, 139
Gets, liens on, 222
Gilbert, Thomas, 17
Gooddel, Abel, 18
Goshen township, 10
Government surveys, 138
Grand Jiory, see Jury
Grantor-grantee index, 103, 113
Great Miami River, 4
GreenwQll, Robert, 7, _8
Grop, A., 21n
Guardians
See also Conservator;

Estate; Probate

court
accounts, 178, 195

Guardians (continued)
appointment of, 125
bonds, 173, 176, 178,

186, 189
additional, 178, 186, 187, 189
duties, 125, 126
fee book, 205, 207
files, 173, 176
index to, 175
inventories, 176, 178, 190
letters, 173, 176, 178, 189
oaths, 173, 176, 178, 186, 189
petitions, 173, 176, 178,

186, 189
for sale of real estate, 193
public, 125
record (bonds, letters,

oaths, petitions),

178, 186, 189
reports, 173, 176
Gum, Rev. Jacob, 7, 8, 9
Gum, Jesse D. , 7
Gum, John B., 9, 10, 11,

13, 14
Gum, Zephaniah, 7_

Hale, John E., 21n

Hancock County, 5

Hansford, Dr. Charles, 9, 14

Harrison, 7/illiam Henry, 4

Harvey, Curtis H., 16

Hash, Fielden T., 7

Hash, Phillip, 7, 9, 11

Haw Creek township, 22

Haynes, Asa, 22n

Health, state board of,

58, 59, 84

Hedstrom, Rev. Jonas, 7

Heflin, Reuben, 22n

Heirship, proof of, 173

Henderson Grove, 1_7

Henderson, town of, 10, ]A, 15,

19, 28
name changed to Knoxville, 16
public sale of lots in, _12

Henderson township, _7

Hendricks, Ann, _7

Henry County, 5, 7, 29

High schools, see School

Highway (s)
See also Bridges; Roads
claims, 325

- 208

Subject Index

(Hig-Int)

Highway (s) (continued)

commissioners, 55, 56, 171

■contracts, construction, 321

county superintendent of,

see Superintendent

fleet ovmers' accounts, 320

inspection, 171

labor report, 322

ledger, 327

maintenance accounts, 329

motor fuel tax, see

Motor fuel

orders, register of, 300

purchases, superintendent's

approval of, 171

records, required to be

kept, 172

time sheets, 322

warrants, see Warrants
Hilton, Helen, 7
Huff, John, 21
H-unter, James M., 19, 20
Hurlburt, Ralph H., 18

Identification record,

sheriff's, 267
Illinois

Children's Home and Aid

Society placement rec-
ord, 148
River, 5, 17, 22
State of, 4, 6, 17, 18
Supreme Court, 27
territory created, 5
Index

to administrators' files, 172

to adoption files, 175

to assignors' files, 175

birth, 58

chancery, 212

chattel mortgo.ge, 122

to circuit court files,

210, 212, 214
to conservators' files, 175
to county court files, 144
criminal, 214

transcript, 226
death, 61
deed, 107-113
to estate papers, 172
to execution docket, circuit

court, 239
to executors' files, 172

Index (continued)

grantor-grantee, 113

to guardians' files, 175

to insanity files, 175

to judgment docket, circuit

court, 237

to juvenile dependency and

delinquency files, 175

land, 107, 111, 132

marriage, 65

to mortg,age records, 119

to old age assistance files, 333

plaint if f-def endant
circuit cou.rt, 216
county court, 146

probate judgment docket, 199

stillbirth, 61

tract, 109, 110, 133-135

to wills, 172
Indiana

State of, 4, 17

territory, 4
Indictments, criminal, 143, 213
Indigent persons, care of, 12, _75
Industry census, 70
Inheritance tax

account, 298

docket, 203

returns, 173
Inquest

papers, 270

procedure, 50, 153

record, 271
Insane records, 178, 180
Insanity
See also Conservator

docket, 152, 155

fee books, 160, 205

files, index to, 175

jurisdiction in, 113

jurors, 22, 25

record, 145, 147
Insolvency records

estate, 178, 181

voluntary, 149
Institute
See also Teacher

fund, see Fund
Instructions to jury, see Jury
Ins\irancc schedules, on county

property, 18
Intention, declaration of,

see ITaturalization

- 209 -

Subject Index

(inv-Kno)

Inventory (ies)

administrators', 173, 190
conservators', 173, 177, 188
executors', 173, 190
guardians', 173, 176, 190
record, 178, 190

Investigator's cards, old

age assistance, 334

Jack, Charles, and Co., 15
Jail

expenses, 2, 7
first county, 13
register, 265
repairs to, 16
James, John B. , 7_
Janson, Eric, 7
Jarnagan, J. L., 22n
Jones, Reese, 12, 14
Jordan, E. H., 21
Journal
See also Cash took;
Ledger
county clerk's, 95 .
Joy, James F. , 23
Judge s

circuit, 45, 135, 136, 137
oaths, 135
salary, 135
county, 113

election of, 112
ex-officio probate

judge, 113
first incumbent, 20
oath, 112
salary, 112
dockets

circuit court, 228-231
county court, 152, 156
probate court, 197
inheritance tax, 203
probate, 126
Judgment (s)

circuit court, 209
by confession, 223
dockets

circuit court, 231, 236

index to (236), 237
county court, 153
probate court, 200, 202
index to, 199
sale, redemption, and for-
feiture record, 52
tax - records, 52, 55

Jurors in insanity cases, 22, 25
Jury

certificates, 9, 10

register of, 247, 259
coroner's, 50, 51
grjmd, 2, 22, 23, 246

reports, 213
instructions to, 143
lists, 1, 2, 22, 87, 102, 246
petit, 2, 246
selection of, 41, 74, 75
summonses, 264
venires, 2, 24
verdicts, 213
Justice, administration of

in county, 45-51
Justice of the peace
bonds, 92

and oaths, _86
dockets, 157
early administrative

officer, 71, 82
first election for, 11
jurisdiction of, 45, 46, 115
lists of, 102
probate, 46, 48, 126
transcripts, 225
index, 226
Juvenile
See also Adoption; Minors;

Pension, mothers'
cases, jurisdiction in, 115, 114
delinquency

files, 161, 175

index to, 162, 175
dependency

files, 161, 173

index to, 162, 175
handicaps (blind, crippled,

deaf-mute, delinquent),
educational facilities

for, 517
placement record, 148
probation officer, see Probation

Kaskaskia, town of, 18
Kentucky, 6

Kindergarten, see School
Knox County, 9, 15-19. 24, 25

agriculture in, 29

area, 29

boundaries in, 4n, 10, 29

census, 70

establishment of, 5, 82

Subject Index

~ 210 -

(Kno-McM)

Knox CoTinty (continued)
first settlers of, 6-8
governed by county court,
19, 71, 74, 82
industries in, 29
maps of, 136, 137
naming of, _6
in Northwest and Indiana

Territories, 4
organization of, _8, 9_
population, 29_
township plan of govern-
ment adopted, 19-22, 40,
72, 74, 82
Knox, Major General Henry,

county named for, _6
Knox Manual Labor College, 18
Knoxville

city of, 9_, 12, 17

contestant for county

seat, 23-27, app. A.
jail in, _13

lots sold for taxes, 56
naming of, 16_
railroads, 22, 23
removal of county

seat from, records

of, 20, 150
Journal , 20

Land(s)
See also Lots; Real estate

entries of conveyances
on, 104

index, 107, 111, 132

patents, 105, 106

records, transcription of, 18

school, sale of, 305

swamp , see Swamp

taxes on, see Tax

transfers, 131
Lanphere, George C. , 3^, 20, 23
Lapham, Augustus, 22n
Leases, 142
Ledger( s)
See also Cash book; Journal

highway, accounts receiv-
able and payable, 327

institute fund, 302

motor fuel tax, 295

probate, 178, 200

Lee, Joel, 20
Letters
See also Correspondence
of appointments in pro-
bate, see under title

of appointee
circuit clerk's, 263
Levy

sheriff's certificates of, 123
tax, see Tax
Lewis, V/illiam, 1_1
Lewistown, Fulton County,

7, 8, _9, 18
License( s)
See also Certificate
dog, 86

issuing of, 86
marriage, 66, 68

applications for, 69
professional, see under

name of profession
store, 1_5, 16
tavern, 15, 1^, 86
Liens
See also Mortgages
Federal tax, notices and

certificates of discharge, 127
on gets, 222

mechanics', 215, 217, 222
Lincoln, Abraham, 28
debate with Stephen A.

Douglas, 28, 29
Livestock

estray records, 83, 84
marks and brands, 85
stallion certificates, 82, 128
Log City, first permanent

settlement, _7
Losey, Nehemiah H. , 18
Lots
See also Lands
sale of, for taxes, 56
town, transfer record, 130
Lunacy, see Insanity
Lyman — , 17_
Lynn township, 6_, ip_

McGowan, William, 19
McKee, Thomas, 7_
McLain County, 27n
McMurtry, William, 9, 16

- 211 -

Sutject Index

(Mad-Nat)

Madison County, 5
Magistrate, police, docket, 158
Maine, State of, _18
Manley, George W. , 21, 22n
Manning, Julius, 20, 21
Maps
See also Plats; Plans
G-alesturg, city and town-
ship, 139
Knox County, 136, 137
school, 103
Marks and "brands, live-
stock, 85
Marriage
See also Vital statistics
first in county, 7
Mason, Martin B., 20
Master-in-chancery

deed record, 114, 116
reports, 245
Maxwell, Williaim, 21
May, Harvey Henry, 29
Mechanics' lien
files, 215
records, 217, 222
Meek, Daniel, 22, 22n
Memphis, Tennessee, _28
Mendota, La Salle County, 23
Mercer County, 5, 29_
Michigan, 4, 1_7
Milane, James, 15
Military tract, development

of, 5
Militia
See also Soldiers
roll, 81
Mills, Isaac, 17
Minors
See also Guardian; Juvenile
cases, jurisdiction and

procedure in, 125, 126
naturalization, see

Naturalization
Minutes
See also Proceedings
board of review, 278
county "board of super-
visors' , 2, 20
school "board, 103
Mississippi River, 5, _17> 22
Monmouth, town of, 22
Moore, Lyman K., 21, 21n

Morris, Perry, 15
Mortgage (s)
See also Conveyances; Fore-
closure; Liens
chattel

index, 122
old, 101

record, 114, 118, 121
taxes on, see Tax
real estate

indexes, 107, 109
old, 101

record, 114, 118
releases, 118, 120
uncalled for, 141
Mosquito a"batement districts,

organization of, 58
Mother Biderdyke, see Bickerdyke
Mothers' pension, see Pension
Motor fuel tax
fund

allotments, 6, 324
claims against, 2, 326
orders on, 295
ledger, 295
warrant register, 6

Najnes of farms, Register, 125
Nance, Eaton, 7, 8^
Nance, Phillip, 7
Nance, Ro"bert, 7, 8
Naturalization

certificates (final papers)
circuit court, 253, 255-257
county court, 167, 168
declaration of intention
circuit court, 253, 254,

256, 258
coxinty court, 165, 166
docket, 258
minors', records, 169, 253,

255-257
jurisdiction in county

court. State Supreme
Court rulings on, app. C.
oaths

circuit court, 253, 255-258
county court, 165-169
petitions

circuit court, 2 53, 256-258
county court, 168
soldiers', records, 167, 253,

255, 256

Subject Index

212 -

(Nev-Pen)

Nevitt, James, 14, 1^
New England, 7
New York, State of, 7
Nicholson, J. H., 22n
Nominations, see Election
Non-high-school, see School
Ncn-resident taxes, see Tax
Northwest Territory, 4
Nurses certificates, 75, 80

Oaths

citizenship, see Natur-
alization
of county officers, see

Officers, coxinty
of prohate appointees,

see under title of

appointee
Objections to taxes, see

Complaints under Tax
Officer(s)
See also under title

of officer
county

deputy, see Deputy
register of, 2, 71
probation, see Probation
township

list of, 72, 101
register, 73
Offices, county, location

and description of, 62-67
Officials, county, bonds

of, 1, 2
Ohio

Canal, 17
River, 17
State of, 4, 7
Old age assistance
See also Pensions; Relief
administration of, 176
applications for, 332

action taken on, 176
correspondence, 335
investigator's card file, 334
records, 176, 332
index to (332), 333
Ontario township, 6, 10
Oquawka, 22
Orders
county
See also Vouchers; Warrants

Orders

county (continued)
assignment of, 1
cancelled, 1, 9
register of, 2, 5, 299
countersigned, required

to be kept by treas-
urer, 163
highviray, 300
against school fund, 289, 293
court
See also Decree
admitting v^ill to pro-
bate, 173
chancery, 211
common law, 209
criminal, 213, 251
for discharge of prisoners, 252
for sale

of delinquent lands, 52, 54, 55
of lots, 56
Organization of county govern-
ment, 8, 9, 39-60
Osborn, Stephen, 7, 8, 9, 10, 12
Osborne, Alexander, 7
Osborne, Andrew, 2> ii
Osteopaths' certificates, 74, 75
Owen, John C, 15
Owen, Parnach, 12, 15, 18

Parole
See also Probation
records, 252
Patents, land, 105, 106
Pauper, see Relief
Pennington, Riggs, 7, 8, 9
Pennsylvania, State of, 7
Pensions
See also Old age assist-
ance; Public wel-
fare; Relief
blind

administration of, 60
applications, 13
orders, 11
register, 13
mothers'
See also Juvenile
appropriations for, 115, 116
jurisdiction, 60, 115
netitions for, 163

213 -

Subject Index

(Pen-Pro)

Pensions

mothers' (continued)
probation officer, see

Probation
record, 164
teachers', 302, 303
reports, 315
People's cases, see_ Crim-
inal under Circuit
court, County court
Peoria

city of, 17, 22
County, 29
Peoria and Oquawka Railroad

Company, 22
Personal property
See also Chattel
assessments of, see Tax
inventories of, 173
taxes, see Tax
Petit jury, see Jury
Petitions

for appointments in pro-
bate, see under title
of appointee
in chancery, 142
for citizenship, see

Na.turalization
to county commissioners'

court, 19
election, 90

for mothers' pension, 163
for probate of v/ill, 142
for removal of county seat, 150
for sale

of delinquent lands,

52, 54, 55 .
of real estate (pro-
bate), 178, 193
Physicians' certificates

(licenses), 74, 75
Pike County, 5, 8
Pittsfield, Pike County, 18
Plaintiff-defendant index
circuit court, 216
county court, 146

Plans
See also Maps; Plats
courthouse, 15
Flat(s)
See also Maps; Plans
road, 100

P.W.A. and state

aid, 330
of school districts,

98-100, 318
Plymate, Gabriel, 14
Police magistrates
docket, 158
lists of, 102
Poll books, see Election
Poorhouse, see Almshouse
Pope, Nathaniel, 5
Portsmouth, 17
Power of attorney, 103, 142

revocation of, 103
Poynter, VfilliaJB C, 21 n
Praecipes for execution, 236, 238
Prairie College, organization

of, 17, 18
Prisoners, see Jail
Private schools, see School
Probate
court
See also Administrator;

Conservator; Estate;
Executor; Guardian;
Wills
clerk of

county clerk ex-officio,

82, 125
duties, 126, 127
office, 62, 63
dockets

claim, 200, 201
clerk's, 197, 198, 204
estate, 202
judge's, 197

inheritance tax, 203
judgment, 200, 202
index to, 199

214 -

Sut.lect Index

(Pro -Re c)

Probate

court (continued)

fee "books (court costs)

205, 208
fees, 97
files, 173

index to, 172
jurisdiction and func-
tions of, 124-126
records

miscellaneous, 178
reouired to "be kept,

description of,
126, 127
jurisdiction in county

court, 47, 48, 113, 124
justice of the peace, 46,

48, 124, 126
of wills, 173

petitions for, 142
Protation
See also Parole
officers
adult

"bond, 137
compensation, 137
duties and powers

of, 114, 137
record of cases, 145, 251
reports, 251
juvenile

duties, 113, 114
salary, 114
mothers' pension,

duties of, 60, 115
records, 137, 164
Proceedings
See also Minutes
county "board of super-
visors, 1, 2, 15
of courts, see Records

•under name of specific
court
justice of the peace,

transcripts of, 225
index to, 226
non-high-school board

of education, 304
of teachers' institutes, 311
Proof of heirship, 173
Puhlio administrator, see

Administrator

Public assistance, adminis-
tration of, 59, 60
Public guardian, see Guardian
Public health services, 58
Public welfare
See also Almshouse; County
home; Feeble-minded;
Juvenile; Pensions;
Relief
county department of

duties of, 59, 175, 176
establishment of, 175
office, 62, 6_5
records, see Old age

assistance
county superintendent of,

see Superintendent
Public Works Administration

road plats, 330
Pupils' examination records, 313
Purchase, certificates of, 49
Putnam County, 5

Quincy Herald, 22
Quitclaim deeds, 114, 115

Railroad(s)

coming of to county, 22, 23
taxes, see Tax
valuations, 33
Randolph County, 4, 5
Rates of levy, state board

of equalization, 100
Razor, Elizabeth, 7
Real estate
See also Estate; Land; Lots
assessment of, see Tax
deeds, see Deeds
inventories, 173
mortgages, see Mortgage
sale of

docket, 198, 204
petitions and decrees

for, 178, 193„ 194
taxes on, see Tax
Receipts, tax, see Tax
Receipts and expendit-ures
See also Accounts; Fees; F\ind

circuit clerk's, 259
county clerk's, 95, 97,
sheriff's, 268
treasurer's, 288, 289

170

- 215 -

Subject Index

(Rec-Sal)

Recognizance
bonds, 213
records

circuit court, 250
county court, 145
Recorder(s)
bond, 54, 102
cash book, 140
circuit clerk ex-officio,

54, 102
deputies, 102
duties of, 54, 102
miscellaneous records, 114, 142
office, 62, 63
records reauired to be

kept by, 102-104
term of office, 102
Records

housing, care ajid acces-
sibility of, 62-67
legislation concerning, 60
removal of to Galesburg, 27
Redemption

certificates, 49
sheriff's, 123
record, 52
Reed, Jonathan, 9^
Registrars of births and

deaths
accoiints with, 96, 291
duties of, 59
Releases, mortgage, 118, 120

index to, 107
Relief
See also Almshouse; County

home; Feeble-minded; In-
sanity; Juvenile; Old
age assistance; Pen-
sions; Public v/elfare
emergency - funds, 295
pauper, register, 337
unemployment, see Emergency

above
work, see Emergency above
Relinquishment, widows' , see

V/idow
Republican register of

voters, 88
Retail rates, 15, 16
Revenue, county, increase

in, 14
Review, board of,
clerk of, 43, 158

Review, board of (continued)
complaint (s)
docket, 279
original, 1, 277
record, 2, 278
duties and po?/ers of,

43, 83, 158
members of, 158
minutes, 278
Reynolds, James, 7
Rhea, E. B., 25
Rio township, 6, 10
Road(s)
See also Bridges; Highway
bond issues for, 17
building of, 14, 15
construction and mainten-
ance, 41, 75
deeds for right of way, 142
funds, see Pond
levies for, 26
papers, 1, 19
petitions for establish-
ment of, 19
plats, 100, 330
state aid, see State aid
supervision of, changes

in, 55, 56
tax, see Tax
Robertson, Alexander, 7
Robertson, Daniel, _7
Rock Island, 14
Rock River, 5
Runkle, Henry J., 13, 18
Rushville, Schuyler County, 18

Sailors' dischrj-ge record, 124
St. Clair, Arthur, 4
St. Clair County, 4, 5
Sale

bill records, 178, 194

certificates of, sheriff's, 123

of real estate, 204
decrees for, 178, 193
petitions for, 178, 194

of school lands, 305

tax, see Delinquent imder
tax
Sale, George W., 18
Salem

town of, 19

township, 25

216 -

Subject Index

(San-Sta)

Sanburn, John G., 9, 10,

n, 13, 18
SanTDurn, Nathaniel, 19
Sargent, 7/inthrop, 4n
Schedules

insurance, 18
tax, see Tax
School(s)
See also Educp.tion
hoard

elections, 103
minutes, 103
hond issues, 17
commissioner, 16, ^, 166

reports of, 305
county jurisdiction of,

73, 75
coTuity superintendent of,

see Superintendent
districts

. houndarics, changes of, 307
claims, 308

plats of, 98, 99, 100, 318
examinations, sec Pupils,

Teachers
fund, see Fund
high

establishment of, 307
statistics, 317
institute account, 289, 293
kindergarten statistics, 317
lands

purchase of, 2, 21
sale of, 305
levies, 26, 27
maps, 103
non-high

accounts, 289, 293
hoard, proceedings

of, 304
fund, see Fund
private, statistics, 317
pupils, see Pupils
reform, - record, 252
statistics, 317
taJC, see Tax
teachers, see Teacher
treasurers' bonds, 306
trustees ' , 166
reports, 314

Schuyler County, 5, 1_8
Selection, widows', see V/idow
Sheep claims, 297
Sheldon, Thomas, 7
Sheriff (s)

bond, 48, 150

cash book, 268

certificates of levy,

sale, and redemption, 123

correspondence, 269

deeds, 264

deputy, sec Deputy

docket of executions, 265

duties and powers of,

49, 51, 150, 151

identification record, 267

jury venire, 2, 24

office, 62, _65

papers, 143, 264

term of office, 150
Simmons, Thomas, 18
Smith, John C, 17
Soldiers
See also Militia

bounty book, 8

discharge records, 124

naturalization, 167, 253,

255, 256
Special assessments, see

Assessments linder Tax
Specifications, repair of

county jail, 16
Spoon River, 15
Springfield, 12, 22
Stallion

certificates, 82, 128

renewal of, 128
Stanley, John 0., 21, 22n
Stark County, 10, 29
State aid

fund, see Fund

for roads, 296

road, plats of, 330

for schools, 308
State Tax Commission, 84
State's attorney

hond, 50

docket, 242

duties oJid powers of, 50,
51, 154-156

- 217 -

Subject Index

(Sta-T£uc)

State's attorney (continued)
office, 62, 65_
record, 272
reports, 244
salary, 154
tenure of office, 154
StilllDirths, sec Vital

statistics
St in son, Joshua, 12
Subpoenas, county court, 143
Sunmonses

circuit court, 209, 211
county court, 143
jury, 264
Sumner, James H., 21, 21n
Superintendent

county hone, 177, 178
of highways

appointed by county
board of supervi-
sors, 56, 171
cash books, 327, 328
duties and powers of,

171, 172
ledger of accounts re-
ceivable and paya-
ble, 327
office, 62, 66
salary, 56

term of office, 56, 171
of public v.'elfare
appointed by county

board of supervi-
sors, 59, 175
functions of, 59, 175
office, 62, 6^
of schools

acccunts of school

funds, 317, 319
duties and powers

of, 53, 54,
56, 166, 167
office of, 62) 65
reports, 166, 317
teachers' reports to, 315, 316
term of office, 166
trustees' reports to, 314

Supervisor of assessments

(County assessor)
books (lists of taxrble

property), 28, 39
county treasurer ex-officio,

43, 156, 157
duties and powers of, 156
Supervisors

county board of
See also Commissioners

court, county
acting as board of reviev/, 158
adoption of, 40, 72, 74, 82
clerk of, 75, 76
duties and powers of, 41-43,

70, 72, 74, 75, 177
first meeting, 21
minutes, 2, 20
proceedings, 1, 2, 15
record, 2
reports to, 1, 2, 20,

21, 100, 317
rules adopted by, 20
sessions, 72
road, see Road
to\-mship

assistants, 41, _72
compensation and tenure, 72
duties, penalty for neglect of, 72
Surveyor (s)
county

appointed by county board

of supervisors, 55, 174
duties and povrers of, 55, 174
oath of, 103, 174
record of surveys, 331

statutory requirements for

keeping of, 174
tenure of office, 174
Surveys, governnent, plats of, 138
Swamp lands, legisl.?.tion concerning,

57
Sivartz, Abraham, 16
Swift, Erastus, 18
Swift, Hiram E., 18

Tax(es)

abatement lists

personal property, 44, 287
real estate, 287

- 218

Subject Index

(Tax-Tea)

Tax(es) (continued)
assessment( s)

changes in property

affecting, 274
personal property, 28, 33, 39
railroad, 29, 33
real estate (lands and lots),
28, 33, 39
review of, see Board of

Review
special

delinquent, 45, 47
docket, 204
lists, 26, 34

for local improvements, 35
a.ssessor' s books (lists of

taxable property), 28, 39
collections, 43, 44, 159, 160
collector' s
accounts, 283
books (lists of taxable

property), 39, 41
abstracts of footings, 42
fuinished to banks, 48
collection record, 281
settlement record, 280
complain.ts, 1, 277
docket, 279
record, 2, 278
deeds, affidavits for, 50

record, 51
delinquent

forfeiture for, 52
judgment

record, 52, 55

sale, redemption, and

forfeiture record, 52
lists, 45, 101

non-resident, 45, 46
redemption record, 52
sale for

certificates of purchase

and redemption, 49
/ county collector's duties

in, 160
lists of lots and lands

sold, 52, 56, 57
petitions for, 52, 54, 55
record, 52, 53
special assessments, 45, 47

Tax(es) (continued)
distribution, 41, 282
dog, record, 28
Federal, lien, see Lien
inheritance, see Inheritance
levies, 100

road and bridge, 26

school, 26, 27
lists, 1, 38, 276
See also Assessor's books.
Collector's books,
above

mortgage, 28, 36

non-resident, 28, 40
motor fuel, see Motor fuel
personal property, 28, 33,

39, 41
railroad

abstract of, 41, 43

assessments, 29, 33

books (lists of taxable

property), 30, 32
Galesburg, 30, 31

receipts, 284, 285

schedules, 29, 30, 32
real estate, 28, 33, 39, 41
receipts

paid, 286

personal property, 284

railroad, 284, 285

real estate, 284
refunds, 286
returns, 29
road, 2, 37

lists, 1, 38
schedules

personal property, 273, 275

railroad, 30, 32

telegraph and telephone, 29
school, 2, 37

state and county, accounts, 282
telegraph and telephone

abstracts of, 41, 43

assessment returns, 29

distribution, 41, 282
Taxation procedure, 42-44
Teachers

certificates, 310

number issued, 317
examinations, 309
institute, 167

proceedings, 311

- 219

Subject Index

(Tca-Vou)

Teachers (continued)

library, history of, 312
pension fund, 302, 303
permanent record, 310
reports

annual, 316
pension, 315
Telegraph end telephone

taxes, see Tax
Tenple, Jajnes W. , 26
Tennessee, State of, 6
Tipton, Thomas F. , 27n
Torm lots, see Lots
To\7nship(s)

assessors, see Assessor
collectors, see Collector
labor accounts, 323
officers, see Officers
plan of governnent, adop-
tion of, 19-22, 40, 72,

74, 82
treasurers, see Treasurer
Tract index, 109, 110, 133-135
Transcripts

circuit court, 209, 211
county court, 145
of evidence, 221
justice of the peace pro-
ceedings, 225
index to, 226
Treasurer (s)
county

accounts v/ith to^Tn

collectors, 283
hond, 45, 162
cash took, 289
duties and pov.'ers of,

44, 45, 163
election of, 162
ex-officio county col-
lector, 44, 159
ex-officio supervisor of
assessments, 43, 156,
157
financial statements, 288
ledger, 289, 290
office of, 62, 64

specifications for re-
pair of, 16
reports made hy, 100, 163
reports to, 165
terra of office, 162
tov/nship
"bonds, 306
first incuntent, 11

Trickey, John H,, 16
True 'bills, see Indictment
Trust funds, see Fund
Trustees, school, 52, 53

reports, 21, 314
Tucker, Samuel, 21

Unemployment relief, see

Emergency under Relief
Utica Bank, 17

16

Vandalia, first capital, 5,

10, _
Vaughan, Jane, 7
Venires, see J\iry
Verdicts, see Jury
Vermont, State of, 18
Veterans, see Soldiers
Veterinarians' certificates,

75, 78
Victoria, settlement in, 7
Vincennes, Indiana, 6
Virgini?., State of, 6
Vital statistics
hirths
See also AccoTonts
certificates, 59
index, 58
register, 60
deaths
See also Accounts
certificates, 62
index, 61
register, 63
legislation concerning, _34, 85
marriage
index, 65
licenses, 66, 68

applications for, 59
record, 68
register, 67
registration procedure, 59
stillbirth

certificates, 59, 62
record, 64
register, 63
index to, 61
Voiles, Nicholas, 7, 8, 9
Votes, see Election
Vouchers
See also Orders, county;

Y/ar rants
coiuity, cancelled, 301

- 220

Sutject Index

(Wat-You)

y/alDash River, 4
T/alnut Grove tovmship, 6, 10
Ward, Anos, 20
Warrants
See also Orders, coTinty;

Voucher s

■blind, 11

highway, register of, 6
no tor fuel tax, 6
Warranty deed record,

114, 117
Warren County, 5, 29
Waters, John, 18
Y/est Galcshurg, town

of, 24, 25
West, J. P., 22n
West Jersey tovmship, 10
West, Neheniah, 18
If.'hite, Janes, 21
White, Sanuel S., 9, 15
V/hiteshoro, New York, 15,

17, 18
V/hitton, Williajn H. , 14
Widows' relinquishnent and

selections, 178, 192

Will(s)
See also Adninistrator;

Estate; Executor;

Prohate court
annexed, see Adninistrator
copies of, 142
index to, 172
original, 174
prohate of, 173

petitions for, 142
record, 178, 182
Yasconsin, State of, 4
T/itnore, Isaac M. , 21, 21n
Y/itness

affidavits, 143
fees, 259
Wolf bounties, 14
Work relief, see Energency

under Relief
World War, 29
Wright, George H., 18
Y/r its,

foreign, 154, 155

Young, Judge Richard M., 9