Full text of "Portrait and biographical album of Peoria County, Illinois : Containing full page portraits and biographical sketches of prominent and representative citizens of the county, together with portraits and biographies of all the Presidents of the United States and Governors of the state"

'■ J !v!''Mr'^fiWGii3i;!:'';';'/i^'i'!'i'i.- !:>.!!!

LIBRARY OF THE

UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS

AT URBANA-CHAMPAICN

977.352
P83

111. Hist. 3urv.

wmm.Mm^^m^mm^M comtadkidmg

oFPROMlNENTANPRiPRESENTATIVE CITIZENS

OF THE COUNTY

TOGETHER WITH- PORTRAITS -AND -BIOGRAPHIES-OF-ALL • THE

Mmm^W) • mV^Wi -STATS

CHICAGO:

BIOGRAPHICAL PUBLISHING CO.

1890.

fi^

pF(Ep/^?E.

-.^^t^-

-|-««5*^-^

^^«S^IIE grentcst of English histui-ians, Macaulay, and onn of the most brilliant writei's oi
// the present century, has said : "The history of a country is best told in a record of the
lives of its people." In conformity with this idea the Portrait and Biographical
Ai-uu.M of this county has been prepared. Instead of going to musty records, and
taking tiierefrom dry statistical matter that can be appreciated by but few, our
corps of writers have gone to the people, the men and women who have, by their
enterprise and industry, brought the county to a rank second to none among those
comprising this great and noble State, and from their lips have the story of their life
struggles. No more interesting or instructive matter could be presented to an intelli-
gent public. In this volume will be found a record of many whose lives are worthy the
imitation of coming generations. It tells iiow some, commencing life in povert}', by
ndustry and economy have accumulated wealth. It tells how others, with limited
advantages for securing an education, have become learned men and women, with an
influence extending throughout the length and breadth of the land. It tells of men who
have risen from the lower walks of life to eminence as statesmen, and whose names have
become famous. It tells of those in every walk in life who have striven to succeed, and
records how that success has usually crowned their efforts. It tells also of many, very
niaiiv, who, not seeking the applause of the world, have pursued "the even tenor of their way," content
to have it said of them as Christ said of the woman performing a deed of mercy — "they have done what
tiiey could." It tells how that many in the pride and strength of young manhood left the plow and the
anvil, the lawyer's office and the counting-room, left every trade and profession, and at their country's
call went forth valiantly "to do or die," and how through their efforts the Union was restored and peace
once more reigned in the land. In the life of every man and of every woman is a lesson that should not
Ije lost upon those who follow after.

Coming generations will appreciate this volume and preserve it as a sacred treasure, from the fact
that it contains so much that would never find its way into public records, and which would otherwise be
inaccessible. Great care has been taken in the compilation of the work and every opportunity possible
"■iven to those represented to insure correctness in what has been written, and the publishers flatter them-
selves that they give to their readers a work with few errors of consequence. In additioii to the biograph-
ical sketches, portraits of a number of representative citizens are given.

The faces of some, and biographical sketches of many, will be missed in this volume. For this the
publishers are not to blame. Not having a proper conception of the work, some refused to give the
information necessary to compile a sketch, while others were indifferent. Occasionally some member of
the famil}' would oppose the enterprise, and on account of such opposition the support of the interested
one would be withheld. In a few instances men could never be found, thougii repeated calls were made
at their residence or place of business.

15iO(ii; uMiic Ai. I'l ru.isiiiN(i Co.
CuiCAOO, October, 1800.

20ja6:o

mss::..

^!-j \,-^»i3>'-

b-yb)

■•ffi»tew,>,.

;4^-

^^..---v-^^

^f^

■■J '^\\

OF THE

GOVERNORS of ILLINOIS,

AND OF THE

OFTHE

j-s»t3»=-^>sg^

'Ti

tl^^

J\^ ~ COPYRIGHTED '''^}

1885.

/^->s^.-i»S^^?

w^'*^^^^-

<P-i^~x^^«S-»

' %ai>'

^x ^^:^=:-^

i^M^ ^iiy^^w^#

'^^^K^^-? K^>: h*^^;-v .-;::. ■^^^

^^:^^^^^J

•^^•^"■^."•^" v V wV^'

FIRST PRESIDENT.

HE Father of our Country was
liorn in Westmorland Co., Va.,
'Feb. 22, 1732. His parents
were Augustine and Mary
(Ball) Washington. Tlic family
to which he belonged has not
been satisfactorily traced in
England. His great-grand-
father, John Washington, em-
igrated to Virginia about 1657,
and became a pros|)erous
planter. He had two sons,
Lawrence and John. The
former married Mildred Warner
and had three children, John,
Augustine and Mildred. Augus-
tine, the father of George, first
married Jane Butler, who bore
him four children, two of whom,
Lawrence and Augustine, reached
maturity. Of si.x children by his
second marriage, George was the
eldest, the others being Betty,
Samuel, John Augustine, Charles
and Mildred.
Augustine Washington, the father of George, died
in 1743, leaving a large landed property. To his
eldest son, Lawrence, he bequeathed an estate on
liie Patomac, afterwards known as Mount Vernon,
and to George he left the parental residence. George
r;xeived only such education as the neighborhood
scliools afforded, save for a short time after he left
school, when he received private instruction in
mathematics. His spelling v/as rather defectiv*.

Remarkable stories are told of his great i)hysica.
strength and development at an early age. He was
an acknowledged leader among his companions, and
was early noted for that nobleness of character, fair-
ness and veracity which characterized his whole life.

When George was 14 years old hehad a desire to go to
sea, and a midshipman's warrant was secured for him,
but through the opposition of his mother the idea was
abandontd. Two years later he was appointed
surveyor to the immense estate of Lord Fairfax. Li
this business he spent three years in a rough frontier
life, gaining experience which afterwards proved very
essential to him. \\\ 1751, though only ig years of
age, he was appointed adjutant with the rank of
major in the Virginia militia, then being trained for
active service against the French and Lidians. Soon
after this he sailed to the West Lidies with his brother
Lawrence, who went there to restore his health. They
soon returned, and in the summer of 1752 Lawrence
died, leaving a large fortune to an infant daughter
who did not long survive him. On her demise the
estate of Mount Vernon was given to George.

Upon the arrival of Robert Dinwiddle, as Lieuten-
ant-Governor of Virginia, in 1752, the militia was-
reorganized, and the province divided into four mili-
tary districts, of which the northern was assigned- to
Washington as adjutant general. Shortly after this
a very" perilous mission was assigned him and ac-
cei)ted, which others had refused. This was to pro-
ceed to the French post near Lake Erie in North-
western Pennsylvania. The distance to be traversed
was between 500 and 600 miles. Winter was at hand,
and the journey was to be made without military
escort, through a territory occupied by Indians. The

GEORGE WASHINGTON.

trip was a perilous one, and several limes he came near
losing his life, yet he returned in safety and furnished
a full and useful report of his expedition. A regiment
of 300 men was raised in Virginia and put in com-
mand of Col. Joshua Fry, and Major Washington was
commissioned lieutenant-colonel. Active war was
then begun against the French and Indians, in which
Washington took a most imjx)rtant part. In the
memorable event of July 9, 1755, known as Brad-
dock's defeat, Washington was almost the only officer
of distinction who escaped from the calamities of the
day with life and honor. The other aids of Braddock
ivere disabled early in the action, and Washington
alone was left in that capacity on the field. In a letter
to his brother he says: "I had four bullets through
my coat, and two horses shot under me, yet I escaped
unhurt, though death was leveling my companions
on every side." An Indian sharpshooter said he was
not born to be killed by a bullet, for he had taken
direct aim at him seventeen times, and failed to hit
him.

After having been five years in the military service,
and vainly sought promotion in the royal army, he
took advantage of the fall of Fort Duquesne and the
ex[)ulsion of the French from the valley of the Ohio,
CO resign his conmiission. Soon after he entered the
Legislature, where, although not a leader, he look an
active and im|X)rtant part. January 17, 1759, he
married Mrs. Martha (Dandridge) Custis, the wealthy
widow of John Parke Ci'Stis.

\Vhen the British Parliament had closed the port
•)f Boston, the cry went up throughout the provinces
that "The cause of Boston is the cause of us all."
It was then, at the suggestion of Virginia, that a Con-
gress of all the colonies was called to meet at Phila-
deli)hia,Sept. 5, 1774, to secure their common liberties,
peaceably if possible. To this Congress Col. Wash-
ington was sent as a delegate. On May 10, 1775, the
Congress re-assembled, when the hostile intentions of
England were plainly apparent. The battles of Con-
cord and Lexington had been fought. Among the
first acts of this Congress was the election of a com-
mander-in-chief of the colonial forces. This high and
responsible office was conferred upon Washington,
who was still a member of the Congress. He accepted
it on June 19, but upon the express condition that he
receive no salary. He would keep an exact account
of expenses and expect Congress fo pay them and
nothing more. It is not the object of this sketch to
trace the military acts of Washington, to whom the
fortunes and liberties of the people of this country
were so long confided. The war was conducted by
him under every possible disadvantage, and while his
forces often met with reverses, yet he overcame every
obstacle, and after seven years of heroic devotion
and matchless skill he gained liberty for the greatest
nation of earth. On Dec. 23, 17^-5, Washington, in
a parting address of surpassing beauty, lesigned his

commission as commander-in-chief of the army to
to the Continental Congress sitting at Annapolis. He
retired immediately to Mount Vernon and resumed
his occupation as a farmer and planter, shunning all
connection with public life.

In February, 1 7 89, Washington was unanimously
elected President. In his presidential career he was
subject to the peculiar trials incidental to a iiew
government ; trials from lack of confidence on the pan
of other governments ; trials from want of harmony
between the different sections of our own country;
trials from the impoverished condition of the country,
owmg to the war and want of credit; trials from the
beginnings of party strife. He was no partisan. His
clear judgment could discern the golden mean ; and
while perhaps this alone kept our government from
sinking at the very outset, it left him exposed to
attacks from both sides, which were often bitter and
very annoying.

At the expiration of his first term he was unani-
mously re-elected. At the end of this term manv
were anxious that he be re-elected, but he absolutely
refused a third nomination. On the fourth of March,
1797, at the expiraton of his second term as Presi-
dent, he returned to his home, hoping to pass there
his few remaining yeais free from the annoyances of
public life. Later in the year, however, his repose
seemed likely to be interrupted by war with France.
At the prospect of such a war he was again urged to
take command of the armies. He chose his sub-
ordinate officers and left to them the charge of mat-
ters in the field, which he superintended from his
home. In accepting the command he made the
reservation that he was not to be in the field until
it was necessary. In the midst of these preparations
his life was suddenly cut off. December 12, he took
a severe cold from a ride in the rain, which, settling
in his throat, produced inflammation, and terminated
fatally on the night of the fourteenth. On the eigh-
teenth his body was borne with military honors to its
final resting place, and interred in the family vault at
Mount Vernon.

Of the character of Washington it is impossible to
speak but in terms of the highest respect and ad-
miration. The more we see of the operations of
our government, and the more deeply we feel the
difficulty of uniting all opinions in a common interest,
the more highly we must estimate the force of his tal-
ent and character, which have been able to challenge
the reverence of all parties, and principles, and na-
tions, and to win a fame as extended as the limits
of the globe, and which we cannot but believe will
be as lasting as the existence of man.

The person of Washington was unusally tan, erect
and well proportioned. His muscular strength was
great. His features were of a beautiful symmetry.
He commanded respect without any appearance of
luuightiness, and ever serious without being dull.

M'^iJdm2^

SEOOND PRESIDENT.

-gj£d£aa

— ^«^

u.^JM

'ifk.

a^?f

OHN ADAMS, the second
?,. President and the first Vice-
-President of the United States,
was born in Braintree ( now
Quincy),Mass., and about ten
miles from Boston, Oct. 19,
1735. His great-grandfather, Henry
Adams, emigrated from England
about 1640, with a family of eight
sons, and settled at Braintree. The
parents of John were John and
Susannah (Boylston) Adams. His
father was a farmer of limited
means, to which he added the bus-
iness of shoemaking. He gave his
eldest son, John, a classical educa-
tion at Harvard College. John
1755, and at once took charge of the
school in Worcester, Mass. This he found but a
'school of affliction," from which he endeavored to
"ain jelief by devoting himself, in addition, to the
study of law. For this purpose he placed himself
under the tuition of the only lawyer in the town. He
h.id thought seriously of the clerical profession
but seems to have been turned from this by what he
cernied " the frightful engines of ecclesiastical coun-
cils, cf diabolical malice, and Calvanistic good nature,''
of the operations of which he had been a witness in
his native town. He was well fitted for the legal
profession, possessing a clear, sonorous voice, being
ready and fluent of speech, and having quick percep-
tive powers. He gradually gained practice, and in
1764 married Abigail Smith, a daughter of a minister,
and a lady of superior intelligence. Shortly after his
marriage, (lyC's), the attempt of Parliamentary taxa-
tion turned him from law to politics. He took initial
steps toward holdin^, a town meeting, and the resolu-

tions he offered on the subject became very populat
throughout the Province, and were adopted word for
word by over forty different towns. He moved to Bos-
ton in 1768, and became one of the most courageous
and prominent advocatesof the popular cause, and
was chosen a member of the General Court (the Leg-
lislature) in 1770.

Mr. Adams was chosen one of the first delegates
from Massachusetts to the first Continental Congress,
which met in 1774. Here he distinguished himselt
by his capacity for business and for debate, and ad-
vocated the movement for independence against tli?
majority of the members. In May, 1776, he moved
and carried a resolution in Congress that the Colonies
should assume the duties of self-government. He
was a prominent member of the committee of live
appointed June 11, to prepare a declaration of inde-
pendence. This article was drawn by Jefferson, but
on Adams devolved the task of battling it through
Congress in a three days debate.

On the day after the Declaration of Independence
was passed, while his soul was yet warm with th?
glow of e.xcited feeling, he wrote a letter to his wife
which, as we read it now, seems to have been dictated
l)y the spirit of |)rophecy. "Yesterday," he says, "the
greatest ipiestion was decided that ever was debated
in America; and greater, perhaps, never was or wil
be decided among men. A resolution was passed
without one dissenting colony, ' that these United
States are, and of right ought to be, free and inde-
pendent states.' The day is passed. The fourth of
July, 1776, will be a memorable epoch in the history
of America. I am apt to believe it will be celebrated
by succeeding generations, as the great anniversary
festival. It ought to be commemorated as the day of
deliverance by solemn acts of devotion to Almighty
God. It ought to be solemnized with i«mp, shows.

JOHN ADAMS.

games, sijorts, guns, bells, bonfires, and illuminations
from one end of the continent to the otlier, from this
time forward for ever. Vou will think me transjKirted
with enthusiasm, but I am not. I am well aware ot
the toil, and blood and treasifre, that" it will cost to
maintain this declaration, and support and defend
these States; yet, through all the gloom, I can see the
rays of light and glory. I can see that the end is
worth more than all the means; and that posterity
will triumph, although you and I may rue, which I
hope we shall not. "

In November, 1777, Mr. Adams was appointed a
delegate to France^ and to co-operate with Benijamin
Franklin and Arthur Lee, who were then in Paris, in
the endeavor to obtain assistance in arms and money
from the French Government. This was a severe trial
to his patriotism, as it separated him from his home,
compelled him to cross the ocean in winter, and ex-
posed him to great peril of capture by the British cruis-
ers, who were seeking him. He left France June 17,
1779, In September of the same year he was again
cliosen to go to Paris, and there hold himself in readi-
ness to negotiate a treaty of peace and of commerce
with Great Britian, as soon as the British Cabinet
might be found willing to listen to such proiX)sels. He
sailed for France in November, from there he went to
Holland, where he negotiated imi>ortant loans and
formed important commercial treaties.

Finally a treaty of peace with England was signed
Jan. 21, 1783. The re-action from the excitement,
toil and an.\iety through which Mr. Adams had passed
threw him into a fever. After suffering from a con-
tinued fever and becoming feeble and emaciated he
was advised to go to England to drink the waters of
Bath. A\hile in England, still drooping and des [end-
ing, he received dispatches from his own government
urging the necessity of his going to Amsterdam to
negotiate another loan. It was winter, his health was
delicate, yet he immediately set out, and through
storm, on sea, on horseback and foot,he made the trip.

February 24, 1785, Congress apixsinted Mr. Adams
envoy to the Court of St. James. Here he met face
to face the King of England, who had so long re-
garded him as a traitor. As England did not
condescend to apixsint a minister to the United
States, and as Mr. Adams felt that he was accom-
plishing but little, he sought permission to return to
nis own country, where he arrived in June, 1788.

When Washington was first chosen President, John
Adams, rendered illustiious by his signal services at
home and abroad, was chosen Vice President. Again
at the second elecrion of Washington as President,
Adams was chosen Vice President. In 1796, Wash-
ington retired from public life, and Mr. Adams was
elected President,though not without much opposirion.
Serving in this office four years,he was succeeded by
Mr. Jefferson, his opponent in politics.

T/hile Mr. Adanis was Vice President the great

French Revolution shook the continent of Europe,
and it was upon this point which he was at issue with
the majority of his countrymen led by Mr. Jefferson.
Mr. Adams felt no sympathy with the French people
in tlieir struggle, for he had no confidence in their
power of self-government, and he utterly abhored the
classof atheist philosophers who he claimed caused it.
On the otlier hand Jefferson's sympathies were strongly
enlisted in behalf of the French people. Hence or-
iginated the alienation between these distinguished
men, and two powerful parties were thus soon organ-
ized, Adanis at the head of the one whose sympathies
were with England and Jefferson led the other in
sympathy with France.

The world has seldom seen a spectacle of more
moral beauty and grandeur, than was presented by the
old age of Mr. Adanis. The violence of party feeling
had died away, and he had begun to receive that just
appreciation which, to most men, is not accorded till
after death. No one could look ujxjn his venerable
form, and think of what he had done and suffered,
and how he had given up all the prime and strength
of his life to the public good, without the deepest
emotion of gratitude and respect. It was his peculiar
good fortune to witness the complete success of the
institution which he had been so active in creating and
supixirting. In 1824, his cup of happiness was filled
to the brim, by seeing his son elevated to the highest
station in the gift of the people.

The fourth of July, 1826, which completed the half
century since the signing of the Declaration of Inde-
pendence, arrived, and there were but three of the
signers of that immortal instrument left upon the
earth to hail its morning light. And, as it is
well known, on that day two of these finished their
earthly pilgrimage, a coincidence so remarkable as
to seem miraculous. For a few days before Mr.
Adanis had been rapidly failing, and on the morning
of the fourth he found himself too weak to rise from
his bed. On being requested to name a toast for the
customar)' celebration of the day, he exclaimed " Ix-
DEPENDENCE FOREVER." When the dav was ushered
in, by the ringing of bells and the firing of cannons,
he was asked by one of his attendants if he knew
what day it was? He replied, "O yes; it is the glor-
ious fourth of July — God liless it — God bless you all."
In the course of the day he said, " It is a great and
glorious day." The last words he uttered were,
"Jefferson survives." But he had, at one o'clock, re-
signed his spirit into the hands of his God.

The personal appearance and manners of Mr.
.'Vdams were not particularly preixsssessing. His face,
as his portrait manifests.was intellectual ard expres-
sive, but his figure was low and ungraceful, and his
manners were frequently abrupt and uncoufteous.
He had neither the lofty dignity of Washington, nor
the engaging elegance and gracefulness which marked
the manners and address of Jefferson.

W-:

'^?,

'^^'C^tTTI^

THIRD PRESIDENT.

^,-V*-'^, ,'^\* ® ,.,4,-

2^-^'.

/^>!^-^.^

.r '^^-^^^^"^'

)^j HOMAS JEFFERSON was
born April 2, 1743, at Shad-
^^u-ell, Albermarle county, Va.
His parents were Peter and
Jane (Randolph) Jefferson,
the former a native of Wales,
and the latter born in Lon-
don. To them were born six
daughters and two sons, of
whom Thomas was the elder.
When 14 years of age his
fatiier died. He received a
most liberal education, hav-
ing been kept diligently at school
from the time he was five years of
age. In 1760 he entered William
£;nd Mary College. Williamsburg was then the seat
of the Colonial Court, and it was the obodeof fashion
and splendor. Young Jefferson, who was then 17
years old, lived somewhat expensively, keeping fine
horses, and much caressed by gay society, yet he
was earnestly devoted to his studies, and irreproacha-
able in his morals. It is strange, however, under
such influences,that he was not ruined. In the sec-
ond year of his college course, moved by some un-
explained inward impulse, he discarded his horses,
society, and even his favorite violin, to which he had
previously given much time. He often devoted fifteen
hours a day to hard study, allowing himself for ex-
ercise only a run in the evening twilight of a mile out
of the city and back again. He thus attained very
Irigh intellectual culture, alike excellence in philoso-
pliy and the languages. The most difficult Latin and
Greek authors he read with facility. A more finished
scholar has seldom gone forth from college halls; and

there was not to be found, perhaps, in all Virginia, a
more pureminded, upright, gentlemanly young man.

Immediately upon leaving college he began the
study of law. For the short time he continued in the
practice of his profession he rose rapidly and distin-
guished himself by his energy and accuteness as a
lawyer. But the times called for greater action.
The policy of England had awakened the spirit of
resistance of the American Colonies, and the enlarged
views which Jefferson had ever entertained, soon led
him into active [jolitical life. In 1769 he was chosen
a member of the Virginia House of Burgesses. In
r 77 2 he married Mrs. Martha Skelton, a very beauti-
ful, wealthy and highly accomplished young widow

Upon Mr. Jefferson's large estate at Shadwell, there
was a majestic swell of land, called Monticello, which
commanded a prospect of wonderful extent and
beauty. This spot Mr. Jefferson selected for his new
home; and here he reared a mansion of modest ye*
elegant architecture, which, next to Mount Vernon
became the most distinguished resort in our land.

In 1775 he was sent to the Colonial Congress,
where, though a silent member, his abilities as a
writer and a reasoner soon become known, and he
was placed upon a number of important committees,
and was chairman of the one appointed for the draw-
ing up of a declaration of independence. This com-
mittee consisted of Thomas Jefferson, John Adams,
Benjamin Franklin, Roger Sherman and Robert R.
Livingston. Jefferson, as chairman, was appointed
to draw up the paper. Franklin and Adams suggested
a few verbal changes before it was submitted to Con-
gress. On June 28, a few slight changes were made
in it by Congress, and it was passed and signed July
4, 1776, What must have been the feelings of that

THOMAS JEFFERSON.

man — what the emotions that swelled his breast —
who was charged with the preparation of that Dec-
laration, which, while it made known the wrongs of
America, was also to publish her to the world, free,
(.overign and independent. It is one of the most re-
markable papers ever written ; and did no other effort
i.fihemindof its author exist, that alone would be
sufficient to stamp his name with immortality.

In 1779 Mr. Jefferson was elected successor to
Patrick Henry, as Governor of Virginia. Atonetime
the British officer, Tarleton, sent a secret expedition to
Moniicelio, to capture the Governor. Scarcely five
minutes elapsed after tlie hurried escape of Mr. Jef-
ferson and his family, ere his mansion was in posses-
sion of the British troops. His wife's health, never
very good, was much injured by this excitement, and
:n the summer of 1782 she died.

Mr. Jefferson was elected to Congress in 1783.
Two years later he was appointed Minister Plenipo-
tentiary to France. Returning to the United States
in September, 1789, he became Secretary of State
in Washington's cabinet. This position he resigned
Jan. r, 1794- In 1797, he was chosen Vice Presi-
dent, and four years later was elected President over
Mr. Adams, with Aaron Burr as Vice President. In
1804 he was re-elected with wonderful unanimity,
and George Clinton, Vice President.

The early part of Mr. JelTerson's second adminstra-
tion was disturbed by an event which threatened the
tranquility and peace of the Unior. ; this was the con-
spiracy of Aaron Burr. Defeated in the late election
to the Vice Presidency, and led on by an unprincipled
ambition, this extraordinary man formed the plan of a
military expedition intc the Spanish territories on our
southwestern frontier, for the purpose of forming there
a new republic. This has been generally supposed
was a mere pretext ; and although it has not been
generally known what his real plans were, there is no
doubt that they were of a far more dangerous
character.

In 1809, at the expiration of the second term for
which Mr. Jefferson had been elected, he determined
to retire from political life. For a period of nearly
. )rty )'ears, he had been continually before the pub-
.ic, and all that time had been employed in offices of
the greatest trust and responsibility. Having thus de-
voted the best part of his life to the service of his
country, he now felt desirous of that rest which his
declining years required, and upon the organization of
the newadministration, in March, 1809, he bid fare-
well forever to public life, and retired to Monticello.

Mr. Jefferson was profuse in his hospitality. Whole
families came in their coaches with their hoises, —
fathers and mothers, boys and girls, babies and
nurses,— and remained three and even six months.
Life at Monticello, for years, resembled that at a
fashionable watering-place.
The fourth of July, 1826, being the fifrieth anniver-

sary of the Declaration of American Independence.'
great preparations were made in every part of th'.'
Union for its celebration, as the nation's jubilee, and
the citizens of Washington, to add to the solemni!_\
of the occasion, invited Mr. Jefferson, as the framer
and one of the fetv surviving signers of the Declara-
tion, to participate in their festivities. But an ill-
ness, which had been of several weeks duration, and
had been continually increasing, compelled him to
decline the invitation.

On the second of July, the disease under which
he was laboring left him, but in such a reduced
state that his medical attendants, entertained no
hope of his recovery. From this time he was perfectly
sensible that his last hour was at hand. On the ne.v
d;iy, which was Monday, he asked of those around
him, the day of the month, and on being told it was
the third of July, he expressed the earnest wish tha,
he might be permitted to breathe the airof the fil'tietl-
anniversar}'. His prayer was heard — that day, whose
dawn was hailed with such rapture through our land,
burst upon his eyes, and then they were closed for-
ever, .^nd what a noble consummation of a noble
life! To die on that day, — the birthday of a nation,- -
the day v,'hich his own name and his own act had
rendered glorious; to die amidst the rejoicings and
festivities of a whole nation, who looked up to him,
as the author, under God, of their greatest blessings,
was all that was wanting to fill up the record his life.

Almost at the same hour of his death, the kin-
dred spirit of the venerable Adams, as if to bear
him company, left the scene of his earthly honors.
Hand in hand they had stood forth, the champions of
freedom; hand in hand, during the dark and desper-
ate struggle of the Revolution, they had cheered and
animated their desponding countr}-men; for half a
century they had labored together for the good of
the country; and now hand in hand they depart.
In their lives they had been united in the same great
cause of liberty, and in their deaths they were not
divided.

In person Mr. Jefferson was tall and thin,_ rather
above six feet in height, but well formed; his eyes
were light, his hair originally red, in after life became
white and silver)'; his complexion was fair, his fore
head broad, and his whole countenance intelligent and
thoughtful. He possessed great fortitude of mind as
well as personal courage ; and his command of tem-
per was such that his oldest and most intimate friends
never recollected to have seen him in a passion.
His manners, though dignified, were simple and un-
affected, and his hospitality was so unbounded that
all found at his house a ready welcome. In conver-
sation he was fluent, eloquent and enthusiastic; and
his language was remarkably pure and correct. He
was a finished classical scholar, and in his writings is
disceniable the care with which he formed his style
upon the best models of antiquity.

(Zyiy<-^

^. ^

iti-^U^H ^'"h.

FOURTH PRESIDENT.

PIIQES npDisoii.

AMES MADISON, "Father
„ of the Constitution," and fourth
'S;'"' President of the United States,
was born March i6, 1757, and
died at his home in Virginia,
Z"*^' June 28, 1836. The name of
James Madison is inseparably con-
nected with most of the im|)ortant
events in that heroic period of our
„ country during which the founda-
tions of this great repubhc were
laid. He was the last of the founders
of the Constitution of the United
States to l.>e called to his eternal
reward.

The Madison family were among
the early emigrants to the New World,
landing upon the shores of the Chesa-
jieake but 15 years after the settle-
ment of Jamestown. The father of
James Madison was an opulent
planter, residing upon a very fine es-
tate called "Montpelier," Orange Co.,
Va. The mansion was situated in
the midst of scenery highly pictur-
esque and romantic, on the west side
of South-west Mountain, al the foot of
Blue Ridge. It was but 25 miles from the home of
Jefferson at Monticello. The closest jjersonal and
political attachment existed between these illustrious
men, from their early youth until death.

The early education of Mr. Madison was conducted
mostly at home under a private tutor. At the age of
r8 he was sent to Princeton College, in New Jersey.
Here he applied himself to study with the most im-

prudent zeal; allowing himself, for months, but three
hours' sleep out of the 24. His health thus became so
seriously impaired that he never recovered any vigor
of constitution. He graduated in 177 i, with a feeble
body, with a character of utmost [lurity, and with a
mind highly disciplined and richly stored with learning
which embellished and gave proficiency to his subsf
quent career.

Returning to Virginia, he commenced the study of
law and a course of extensive and systematic reading.
This educational course, the spirit of the times in
which he lived, and tlie society with which he asso-
ciated, all combined to inspire him with a strong
love of liberty, and to train him for his life-work of
a statesman. Being naturally of a religious turii of
m.ind, and his frail health leading him to think that
his life was not to be long, he directed especial atten-
tion to theological studies. Endowed with a mmd
singularly free from passion and prejudice, and with
almost unequalled powers of reasoning, he weighed
all the arguments for and against revealed religion,
until his faith became so established as never to
be shaken.

In the spring of 1776, when 26 years of age, he
was elected a member of the Virginia Convention, to
frame the constitution of the State. The next year
(T777), he was a candidate for the General Assembly.
He refused to treat the whisky-lovir.g voters, and
consei|uently lost his election ; but those who had
witnessed the talent, energy and public spirit of the
modest young man, enlisted themselves in his behalf,
and he was appointed to the E.secutive Council.

Both Patrick Henry and Thomas Jefferson were
Governors of Virginia while Mr. Madison remained
member of the Council ; and their appreciation of his

JAMES MADISON.

intellectual, social and moral worth, contributed not
a little to his subsequent eminence. In the year
1780, he was elected a member of the Continental
Congress. Here he met the most illustrious men in
our land, and he was immediately assigned to one of
the most conspicuous positions among them.

For three years Mr. Madison continued in Con-
gress, one of its most active and influential members.
In the year 1784, his term having expired, he was
elected a member of the Virginia Legislature.

No man felt more deeply than Mr. Madison the
utter inefficiency of the old confederacy, with no na-
tional government, with no power to form treaties
which would be binding, or to enforce law. There
was not any State more prominent than Virginia in
the declaration, that an efficient national government
must be formed. In January, 1786, Mr. Madison
carried a resolution through the General Assembly of
Virginia, inviting the other States to appoint commis-
sioners to meet in convention at Annapolis to discuss
this subject. Five States only were represented. The
convention, however, issued another call, drawn up
by !\lr. Madison, urging all the States to send their
delegates to Philadelphia, in May, 1787, to draft
a Constitution for the United States, to take the place
of that Confederate League. The delegates met at
the time appointed. Every State but Rhode Island
was represented. George Washington was chosen
president of the convention; and the present Consti-
tution of the United States was then and there formed.
There was, perhaps, no mind and no pen more ac-
tive in framing this immortal document than the mind
and the pen of James Madison.

The Constitution, adopted by a vote 81 to 79, was
to be presented to the several States for acceptance.
But grave solicitude was felt. Should it be rejected
we should be left but a conglomeration of independent
States, with but little ixjwer at home and little respect
abroad. Mr. Madison was selected by tne conven-
tion to draw up an address to the people of the United
States, expounding the principles of the Constitution,
and urging its adoption. There was great opposition
to it at first, but it at length triumphed over all, and
went into efTect in 1789.

Mr. Madison was elected to the House of Repre-
sentatives in the first Congress, and soon became the
avowed leader of the Republican party. While in
New York attending Congress, he met Mrs. Todd, a
young widow of remarkable power of fascination,
whom he married. She was in person and character
(]ueenly, and probably no lady has thus far occupied
so prominent a [xisition in the very peculiar society
w'lich has constituted our republican court as Mrs.
Madison.

Mr. Madison served as Secretary of State under
Jefferson, and at the close of his administration
was chosen President. At this time the encroach-
ments of England had brought us to the verge of war. ,

British orders in council destioyed our commerce, and
our flag was exposed to constant insult. Mr. Madison
was a man of peace. Scholarly in his taste, retiiiiig
in his disposition, war had no charms for him. But the
meekest spirit can be roused. It makes one's blood
boil, even now, to think of an .American ship brought
to, upon the ocean, by the guns of an English cruiser.
A young lieutenant steps on board and orders the
crew to be paraded before him. With great nonchal-
ance he selects any number whom he may please to
designate as British subjects ; orders them down the
ship's side into his boat; and places them on the gun-
deck of his man-of-war, to fight, by compulsion, the
battles of England. This right of search and im-
pressment, no efforts of our Government could induce
the British cabinet to relinquish.

On the iSth of June, r8r2. President Madison gave
his approval to an act of Congress declaring war
against Great Britain. Notwithstanding the bitter
hostility of the Federal party to the war, the country
in general approved; and Mr. Madison, on the 4th
of March, i8i3) was re-elected by a large majority,
and entered upon his second term of office. This is
not the place to describe the various adventures of
this war on the land and on the water. Our infan .
navy then laid the foundations of its renown in grap-
pling with the most formidable power which ever
swept the seas. The contest commenced in earnest
by the appearance of a British fleet, early in February,
18 13, in Chesapeake Bay, declaring nearly the whole
coast of the United States under blockade.

The Emperor of Russia offered his services as nie
ditator. America accepted ; England refused. A Brit-
ish force of five thousand men landed on the banks
of the Patu.xet River, near its entrance into Chesa-
peake Bay, and marched rapidly, by way of Bladens-
burg, upon Washington.

The straggling little city of \\'ashington was thrown
into consternation. The cannon of the brief conflict
at Bladensburg echoed through the streets of the
metropolis. The whole popuUiticn fled from the city.
The President, leaving Mrs. Madison in the Wliite
House, with her carriage drawn up at the doer to
await his speedy return, hurried to meet the officers
in a council of war. He met our troops utterly routed,
and he could not go back without danger of beirg
captured. But few hours elapsed ere the Presidential
Mansion, the Capitol, and all the public buildings in
Washington were in flames.

The war closed after two years of fighting, and or.
Feb. 13, 1815, the treaty of peace was signed at Ghent.

On the 4th of March, 1817, his second term of
office expired, and he resigned the Presidential chair
to his friend, James Monroe. He retired to his beau-
tiful home at Montpelier, and there passed the re-
mainder of his days. On June 28, 1836, then at the
age of 85 years, he fell asleep in death. Mrs. Madi-
son died July 12, 1849.

-p-^^^

FIFTH PRESIDENT.

AMES MONROE, the nrth
. Presidtntof The United States,
was born in Westmoreland Co.,
Va., April 28, 1758. His early
life was passed at the place of
nativity. His ancestors had for
many years resided in the prov-
ince in which he was born. When,
at 17 years of age, in the process
h of completing his ed\ication at
William and Mary College, the Co-
lonial Congress assembled at Phila-
delphia to deliberate upon the un-
just and manifold oppressions of
Great Britian, declared the separa-
tion of the Colonies, and promul-
gated the Declaration of Indepen-
dence. Had he been born ten years before it is highly
probable that he would have been one of the signers
of that celebrated instrument. At this time he left
school and enlisted among the patriots.

He joined the army when everything looked hope-
less and gloomy. The number of deserters increased
from day to day. The invading armies came pouring
in ; and the tories not only favored the cause of the
mother country, but disheartened the new recruits,
who were sufficiently terrified at the prospect of con-
tinding with an enemy whom they had been taught
to deem invincible. To such brave spirits as James
Monroe, who went right onward, undismayed through
difficulty and danger, the United States owe their
political emancipation. The young cadet joined the
ranks, and espoused the cause of his injured country,
with a firm determination to live or die with her strife

for liberty. Firmly yet sadly he shared in the mel-
ancholy retreat from Harleam Heights and ^^'hit';
Plains, and accompanied the dispirited army as it flee'
before its foes through New Jersey. In four months
after the Declaration of Independence, the patriots
had been beaten in seven battles. At the battle of
Trenton he led tiie vanguard, and, in the act of charg-
ing upon the enemy he received a wound in the left
shoulder.

As a reward for his bravery, Mr. Monroe was pro-
moted a captain of infantry ; and, having recovered
from his wound, he rejoined the army. He, however,
receded from the line of promotion, by becoming an
officer in the staff of Lord Sterling. During the cam-
paigns of 1777 and 1778, in the actions of Brandy
wine, Gerniantown and Monmouth, he continued
aid-de-camp; but becoming desirous to regain his
position in the army, he exerted himself to collect a
regiment for the Virginia line. This scheme failed
owing to the exhausted condition of the State. Upon
this failure he entered the office of Mr. Jefferson, at
that period Governor, and pursued, with considerable
ardor, the study of common law. He did not, however,
entirely lay aside the knapsack for the green bag;
but on the invasions of the enemy, served as a volun
teer, during the two years of his legal pursuits.

In 1782, he was elected from King George county,
a member of the Leglislature of Virginia, and by that
body he was elevated to a seat in the Executive
Council. He was thus honored with the confidence
of his fellow citizens at 23 years of age ; and having
at this early period displayed some of that ability
and aptitude for legislation, which were afterwards
employed with unremitting energy for the public good,

JAMES MONROE.

he was in the succeeding year chosen a member of
ihe Congress of the United States.
UeeplyasMr. Monroefslt the imperfei tionsof theold
Confederacy, he was opposed to the new Constitution,
-.hinking, with many others of the Republican parly,
that it gave too nmch power to the Central Government,
and not enough to the individual States. Still he re-
tained the esteem of his friends who were its warm
supporters, and who, notwithstanding his opposition
secured its adoption. In 1789, he became a member
uf the United States Senate; which office he held for
four years. Every month the line of distinction be-
tween the two great parties which divided the nation,
the P"ederal and the Republican, was growing more
distinct. The two prominent ideas which now sep-
arated them were, that the Republican party was in
sympathy with France, and also in favor of such a
strict construction of the Constitution as to give the
Central Government as little power, and the State
Governments as much [X)wer, as the Constitution would
warrant. The Federalists sympathized with England,
and were in favor of a liberal construction of the Con-
stitution, which would give as much power to the
Central Government as that document could possibly
authorize.

The leading Federalists and Republicans were
alike noble men, consecrating all their energies to the
good of the nation. Two more honest men or more
pure patriots than John Adams the Federalist, and
James Monroe the Republican, never breathed. In
building up this majestic nation, which is destined
to eclipse all Grecian and Assyrian greatness, the com-
bination of their antagonism was needed to create the
light equilibrium. And yet each in his day was de-
nounced as almost a demon.

Washington was then President. England had es-
poused the cause of the Bourbons against the princi-
ples of the French Revolution. All Europe was drawn
into the conflict. We were feeble and far away.
Washington issued a proclamation of neutrahty be-
tween these contending powers. France had helped
i;s in the struggle for our liberties. All the despotisms
of Europe were now combined to prevent the French
from escaping from a tyranny a thousand-fold worse
than that which we had endured ^ Col. Monroe, more
magnanimous than prudent, was anxious that, at
whatever hazard, we should help our old allies in
their extremity. It was the impulse of a generous
and noble nature. He violently opposed the Pres-
ident's proclamation as ungrateful and wanting in
magnanimity.

Washington, who could appreciate such a character,
developed his calm, serene, almost divine greatness,
by a])pointing that very James Monroe, who was de-
nouncing the policy of the Government, as the minister
of that Government to the Republic of France. Mr.
Monroe was v.'elcomed by the National Convention
in France with the most enthusiastic dijroonstraUpns-

Shortly after his return to this countn', Mr. Mon-
roe was elected Governor of Virginia, and held the
office for three yeais. He was again sent to France to
co-operate with Chancellor Livingston in obtaining
the vast territory then known as the Province of
Louisiana, which France had but shortly before ob-
tained from Spain. Ttieir united efforts were suc-
cessful. For the comparatively small sum of fifteen
millions of dollars, the entire territor)' of Orleans and
district of Louisiana were added to the United States.
This was probably the largest transfer of real estate
which was ever made in all the history of the world.

From France Mr. Monroe went to England to ob-
tain from that country some recognition of our
rights as neutrals, and to remonstrate against those
odious impressments of our seamen. But Eng-
land was unrelenting. He agam returned to Eng-
land on the same mission, but could receive no
redress. He returned to his home and was again
chosen Governor of Virginia. This he soon resigned
to accept the jjosition of Secretary of State under
Madison. While in this office war with England was
declared, the Secretary of War resigned, and during
these tr)'ing times, the duties of the- War Department
were also put upon him. He was truly the armor-
bearer of President Madison, and the most efficient
business man in his cabinet. LTpon the return ol
peace he resigned the Department of War, but con-
tinued in the office of Secretary' of State until the ex-
piration of Mr. Madison's adminstration. At the elec
tion held the previous autumn Mr. Monroe himself had
been chosen President w^ith but little opposition, and
upon March 4, 1817, was inaugurated. Four years
later he was elected for a second term.

Among the important measures of his Presidency
were the cession of Florida to the L^nited States; the
Missouri Compromise, and the " Monroe doctrine.''

This famous doctrine, since known as the " Monroe
doctrine," was enunciated by him in r823. At that
time the United States had recognized the independ-
ence of the South American states, and did not ^\ish
to have European powers longer attempting to sub-
due portions of the American Continent. The doctrine
is as follows: "That we should consider anyattemjjt
on the part of European powers to extend their sys-
tem to any portion of this hemisphere as dangerous
to our peace and safety," and "that we could not
view any interposition for the purpose of oppressing
or controlling .American governments or provinces in
any other light than as a manifestation by Euroi^ean
powers of an unfriendly disposition toward the United
States." This doctrine immediately affected the course
of foreign governments, and has become the approved
sentiment of the L^nited States.

At the end of his second term Mr. Monroe retired
to his home in Virginia, where he lived until 1830,
when he went to New Vork to live with his son-in-
law. In that city he died, on the 4th of July, 1S31

5. 5, Ai

CuiyyxS

SIXTH PRESIDENT.

3OI7I] Qail]6Y ^ID^gillQS.

=^l^^

OHN QUINCY ADAMS, the

.m sixth President of the United
"S* States, was born in the rural
Y home of his honored father,
.; /J John Adams, in Qaincy, Mass.,
U^, on the I ith cf July, 1767. His
mother, a woman of exalted
worth, watched over his childhood
during the almost constant ab-
sence of liis father. When but
eight years of age, he stood with
' Ills mother on an eminence, listen-
ing to the booming of the great bat-
tle on Banker's Hill, and gazing on
upon the smoke and flames billow-
ing up from the conflagration of
Charlestown.

When but eleven years old he
took a tearful adieu of his mother,
to sail with his father for Europe,
through a fleet ot hostile British cruisers. The bright,
animated boy spent a year and a half in Paris, where
his father was associated with Franklin and Lee as
minister plenipotentiary. His intelligence attracted
the notice of these distinguished men, and he received
from them flattering marks of attention.

Mr. John Adams had scarcely returned to this
cou/.try, in T779, ere he was again sent abroad. Again
lohn Quincy accompanied his father. At Paris he
applied himself with great diligence, for six months,
.to Jtudy; then accompained his father to Holland,
v'here he entered, first a school in .\msterdani, then
the University at I.eyden. About a year from this
time, in 178 1, when the manly l:oy was but fourteen
yea-s of age, he was selected by Mr. Dana, our min-
ister to the Russian court, as his private secretary.

In this school of incessant labor and of enobling
culture he s[)ent fourteen months, and then returned
to Holland through Sweden, Denmark, Hamburg and
Bremen. This long journey he took alone, in the
winter, when in his sixteenth year. Again he resumed
his studies, under a private tutor, at Hague. Thence,

in the spring of 1782, he accompanied his father u:
Paris, traveling leisurely, and forming acquaintance
with the most distinguished men on the Con'inei.t
examining architectural remains, galleries of paintings
and all renowned works of art. At Paris he again
became associated with the most illustrious men of
all lands in the contemplations of the loftiest temijoral
themes which can engross the human mind. Aftj-
a short visit to England he returned to Paris, ana
consecrated all his energies to study until May, 17.S5,
when he rettirned to America. To a brilliant young
man of eighteen, who had seen much of the world,
and who was familiar with the eticiuctte of courts, a
residence with his father in London, under such cir-
cumstances, must have been extremely attractive
but with judgment very rare in one of his age, he ]ire-
ferred to return to America to complete his education
in an .'Vmerican college. He wished then to study
law, that wUh an honorable profession, he might be
able to obtain an independent support.

Upon leaving Harvard College, at the age of twent;-
he studied law for thiee years. In June, 1794, be-
ing then but twenty-seven years of age, he was ap-
pointed by Washington, resident minister at the
Netherlands. Sailing from Boston in July, he reacheo
London in October, where he was immediately admit-
ted to the deliberations of Messrs. Jay and Pinckncy,
assisting them in negotiating a commercial treaty with
Great Britian. After thus spending a fortiiigbit ir
London, he proceeded to the Hague.

In July, 1797, he left the Hague to go to Portugal a.-;
minister plenipotentiary. On his way to Portugal
upon arriving in London, he met with despatches
directing him to the court of Beiiin, but requestiig
him to remain in London until he should receive his
instructions. While waiting he was married to a:i
American lady to whom he had been previously en-
gaged, — Miss Louisa Catherine Johnson, daughter-
of Mr. Joshua Johnson, American consul in I ondon ;
a lady endownd with that beauty and those accom-
plishment which eminently fitted her to move in ti.e
elevated sphere for which she wcvs destined.

♦o

JOHN QUINCY ADAMS.

He reached Berlin with his wife in November, 1797 ;
where he remained until July, 1799, when, having ful-
filled all the purjxases of his mission, lie solicited his
recall.

Soon after his return, in 1802, he was chosen to
the Senate of Massachusetts, from Boston, and then
was elected Senator of the United States for six years,
from the 4th of March, 1804. His reputation, his
ability and his experience, placed him immediately
among the most prominent and influential members
of that body. Especially did he sustain the Govern-
ment in its measures of resistance to the encroach-
ments of England, destroying our commerce and in-
sulting our flag. There was no man in America more
familiar with the arrogance of the British court upon
these jxjints, and no one more resolved to present
a firm resistance.

In 1S09, Madison succeeded Jefferson in the Pres-
idential chair, and he immediately nominated John
Quincy Adams minister to St. Petersburg. Resign-
ing his professorship in Harvard College, he embarked
at Boston, in August, 1809.

While in Russia, Mr. Adams was an intense stu-
dent. He devoted his attention to the language and
history of Russia; to the Chinese trade; to the
European system of weights, measures, and coins ; to
the Climate and astronomical observations; while he
Kept up a familiar acquaintance with the Greek and
Latin classics. lu all the universities of Europe, a
more accomplished scholar could scarcely be found.
All through life the Bible constituted an imjxirtant
part of his studies. It was his rule to read five
chapters every day.

On the 4th of March, 1817, Mr. Monroe took the
Presidential chair, and immediately apjxjinted Mr.
.\dams Secretary of State. Taking leave of his num-
erous friends in public and private life in Europe, he
sailed in June, 1819, for the United States. On the
iSth of August, he again crossed the threshold of his
home in Quincy. During the eight years of Mr. Mon-
roe's administration, Mr. Adams continued Secretary
of State.

Some time before the close of Mr. Monroe's second
term of office, new candidates began to be presented
for the Presidency. The friends of Mr. Adams brought
forward his name. It was an exciting campaign.
Party spirit was never more bitter. Two hundred and
sixty electoral votes were cast. Andrew Jackson re-
ceived ninety-nine; John Quincy Adams, eighty-four;
William H. Crawford, forty -one; Henry Clay, thirty-
SL'/en. As there was no choice by the people, the
(piestion went to the House of Representatives. Mr.
Clay gave the vote of Kentucky to Mr. Adams, and
he was elected.

The friends of all the disappointed candidates now
combined in a venomous and persistent assault upon
Mr. .Adams. There is nothing more disgraceful in
*Hp pa.st history of our country than the abuse which

was poured in one uninterrupted stream, upon this
high-minded, upright, patriotic man. There never was
an administration more pure in principles, more con-
scientiously devoted to the best interests of the coun-
try, than that of John Quincy Adams; and never, per-
haps, was there an administration more unscrupu.
lously and outrageously assailed.

Mr. Adams was, to a very remarkable degree, ab-
stemious and temperate in his habits; always rising
early, and taking much exercise. When at his home in
Quincy, he has been known to walk, before breakfast,
seven miles to Boston. In Washington, it was said
that he was the first man up in the city, lighting his
own fire and applying himself to work in his library
often long before dawn.

On the 4th of March, 1829, Mr. Adams retired
from the Presidency, and was succeeded by Andrew-
Jackson. John C. Calhoun was elected Vice Presi-
dent. The slavery question now began to assume
{xirientous magnitude. Mr. Adams returned to
Quincy and to his studies, which he pursued with un-
abated zeal. But he was not long permitted to re-
main in retirement. In November, 1830, he was
elected representative to Congress. For seventeen
years, until his death, he occupied the post as repre-
sentative, towering above all his peers, ever ready to
do brave battle' for freedom, and winning the title of
" the old man eloquent." Uixsn taking his seat in
the House, he announced that he should hold him-
self bound to no party. Probably there never was a
member more devoted to his duties. He was usually
the first in his place in the morning, and the last to
leave his seat in the evening. Not a measure could
be brought forward and escape his scrutiny. The
battle which Mr. Adams fought, almost singly, against
llie proslavery party in the Government, was sublime
in Its moral daring and heroism. For persisting in
presenting petitions for the abolition of slavery, he
was threatened with indictment by the grand jury,
with expulsion from the House, with assassination;
but no threats could intimidate him, and his final
triumph was complete.

It has been said of President Adams, that when his
body was bent and his hair silvered by the lapse of
fourscore years, yielding to the simple faith of a little
child, he was accustomed to repeat ever\' night, before
he slept, the prayer which his mother taught him in
his infant years.

On the 2ist of February, 1848, he rose on the floor
of Congress, with a paper in his hand, to address the
speaker. Suddenly he fell, again stricken by paraly-
sis, and was caught in the arms of those around him.
For a time he was senseless, as he was conveyed to
the sofa in the rotunda. With reviving conscious-
ness, he opened his eyes, looked calmly around and
said " This is the end of earth .-"then after a moment's
pause he added, ^^ I aw amtcnt" These were the
last words of the grand " Old Man Eloquent."

C2,.^^.?-Z.^5^^..^c;=rr74L,^^-^^^-

/^*

SEVENTH PRESIDENT.

j^-JismoM^

NDREW JACKSON, the
seventh President of the
'United States, was born in
Waxhaw settlement, N. C,
March 15, 1767, a few days
after his father's death. His
parents were poor emigrants
from Ireland, and took up
their abode in Waxhaw set-
tlement, where they lived in
deepest poverty.
Andrew, or Andy, as he was
universally called, grew up a very
rough, rude, turbulent boy. His
features were coarse, his form un-
gainly; and there was but very
little in his cliaracter, made visible, which was at-
tractive.

When only thirteen years old he joined the volun-
teers of Carolina against the British invasion. In
1781, he and his brother Robert were captured and
imprisoned for a time at Camden. A British officer
ordered him to brush his mud-spattered boots. " I am
a prisoner of war, not your servant," was the reply of
the dauntless boy.

The brute drew his sword, and aimed a desperate
dIow at the head of the helpless young prisoner.
.\ndrew raised his hand, and thus received two fear-
ful gashes, — one on the hand and the other ujxjn the
head. The officer then turned to his brother Robert
with the same demand. He also refused, and re-
ceived a blow from the keen-edged sabre, which quite
disabled him, and which probably soon after caused
his death. They suffered much other ill-treatment, and
were finally stricken with the small-pox. Their
mother was successful mi "I'olaining their exchanj^e.

and took her sick boys home. -After a long iilnoss
Andrew recovered, and the death of his mother soon
left him entirely friendless.

Andrew supported himself in various ways, si:has
working at the saddler's trade, teaching school and
clerking in a general store, until 1784, when he
entered a law office at Salisbury, N. C. He, however,
gave more attention to the wild amusements of the
times than to his studies. In 1788, he was appointed
solicitor for the western district of North Carolina, of
which Tennessee was then a part. This involved
many long and tedious journeys amid dangers of
every kind, but .Andrew Jackson never knew fear,
and the Indians had no desire to repeat a skirmish
with the Sharp Knife.

In 1791, Mr. Jackson was married to a woman who
supposed herself divorced from her former husband.
Great was the surprise of both parties, two years later,
to find that the conditions of the divorce had just been
definitely settled by the first husband. The marriage
ceremony was performed a second time, but the occur-
rence was often used by his enemies to bring Mr.
Jackson into disfavor.

During these years he worked hard at his profes-
sion, and frequently had one or more duels on hand,
one of wjjich, when he killed Dickenson, was espec-
ially disgraceful.

In January, 1796, the Territory of Tennessee then
containing nearly eighty thousand inhabitants, the
people met in convention at Knoxville to frame a con-
stitution. Five were sent from each of the eleven
counties, .\ndrew Jackson was one of the delegates.
The new State was entitled to but ofie member in,
the National House of Representatives. Andrew Jack-'
son was chosen that member. Mounting his horse he
rode to Philedelphia, where Congress then held its

ANDREW JACKSON.

sjsiio.is, — a distance of about eight hundred miles.

Jackson was an earnest advocate of the Demo-
cratic pxrty. Jefferson was his idol. He admired
Bonaparte, loved France and hated England. As Mr.
Jackson took his seat, Gen. Washington, whose
second term of office was then expiring, delivered his
last speech to Congress. A committee drew up a
complimentary address in reply. Andrew Jackson
did not approve of the address, and was one of the
twelve who voted against it. He was not willing to
say that Gen. Washington's adminstration had been
" wise, firm and patriotic."

Mr. Jackson was elected to the United States
Senate in 1797, but soon resigned and returned home.
Soon after he was chosen Judge of the Supreme Coint
of his Slate, which position he held for si.x years.

When the war of 181 2 with Great Britian com-
menced, Madison occupied the Presidential chair.
Aaron Burr sent word to the President that there was
an unknown man in the West, Andrew Jackson, who
would do credit to a commission if one were con-
ferred upon him. Just at that time Gen. Jackson
offered his services and those of twenty-five hundred
volunteers. His offer was accepted, and the troops
were assembled at Nashville.

As the British were hourly expected to make an at-
tack upon New Orleans, where Gen. Wilkinson was
in command, he was ordered to descend the river
with fifteen hundred troops to aid Wilkinson. The
expedition reached Natchez; and after a delay of sev-
eral weeks there, without accomplishing anything,
the men were ordered back to their homes. But the
energy Gen. Jackson had displayed, and his entire
devotion to the comrfort of his soldiers, won him
golden opinions; and he became the most popular
man in the State. It was in this expedition that his
toughness gave him the nickname of " Old Hickory."

Soon after this, while attempting to horsewhip Col.
Thomas H. Benton, for a remark that gentleman
made about his taking a part as second in a duel, in
which a younger brotlier of Benton's was engaged,
he received two severe pistol wounds. While he was
lingering upon a bed of suffering news came that the
Indians, who had combined under Tecumseh from
Florida to the Lakes, to exterminate the white set-
tlers, were committing the most awful ravages. De-
cisive action liecame necessary. Gen. Jackson, with
his fractured bone just beginning to heal, his arm in
a sling, and unable to mount his horse without assis-
tance, gave his amazing energies to the raising of an
army to rendezvous at Fayettesville, Alabama.

The Creek Indians had established a strong fort on
one of the bends of the Tallaijoosa River, near the cen-
v^er of Alab;una, about fifty miles below Fort Strother.
With an army of two thousand men. Gen. Jackson
traversed the pathless w-ilderness in a march of eleven
days. He readied their fort, called Tohopeka or
Horse-shoe, on the 27th of March. 1814. The bend

of the river enclosed nearly one hundred acres o<
tangled forest and wild ravine. Across the narrow
neck the Indians had constructed a formidable breast-
work of logs and brush. Here nine hundred warriors,
with an ample suplyof arms were assembled.

The fort was stormed. The fight was utterly des-
perate. Not an Indian would accept of quarter. When
bleeding and dying, they would fight those who en-
deavored to spare their lives. From ten in the morn-
ing until dark, the battle raged. The carnage was
awful and revolting. Some threw themselves into the
river; but the unerring bullet struck their heads as
they swam. Nearly everyone of the nine hundred war-
rios were killed A few probably, in the night, swam
tlie river and escaped. This ended the war. The
power of the Creeks was broken forever. This bold
plunge into the wilderness, with its terriffic slaughter,
so appalled the savages, that the haggard remnants
of the bands came to the camp, begging for peace.

This closing of the Creek war enabled us to con-
centrate all our militia upon the British, who were the
allies of the Indians No man of less resolute will
than Gen. Jackson could have conducted this Indian
campaign to so successful an issue Immediately he
was appointed major-general.

Late in August, with an army of two thousand
men, on a rushing march, Gen. Jackson came to
Mobile. A British fieet came from Pensacola, landed
a force upon the beach, anchored near the little fort,
and from both ship and shore commenced a furious
assault. The battle was long and doubtful. At length
one of the ships was blown up and the rest retired.

Garrisoning Mobile, where he had taken his little
army, he moved his troops to New Orleans,
And the battle of New Orleans which soon ensued,
was in reality a very arduous campaign. This won
for Gen. Jackson an imperishable name. Here his
troops, which numbered about four thousand men,
won a signal victory over the British army of aliout
nine thousand. His loss was but thirteen, while the
loss of the British was two thousand six hundred.

The name of Gen. Jackson soon began to be men-,
tioned in connection with the Presidency, but, in 1824,
he was defeated by Mr. Adams. He was, however,
successful in the election of 1828, and was re-elected
for a second term in 1832. In 1829, just before he
assumed the reins of the government, he met with
the most terrible affliction of his life in the death of
his wife, whom he had loved with a devotion which has
perhaps never been s\upassed. From the shock of
her death he never recovered.

His administration was one of the most memorable
in the annals of our countiy; applauded by one party,
condemned by the other. No man had more bitter
enemies or warmer friends. At the expiration of his
two terms of office he retired to the Hermitage, where
he died June 8, 1845. The last years of Mr. Jack-
son's life were that of a devoted Christian man.

^ 7 //Z>'^^ ^C^3 U^iL^z,,^

EIGHTH PRESIDENT.

•^^t:@>^2s«s^7^5=^^^^^V€)^(^><2)(^^

ARTIN VAN BUREN, the
eighth President of the
United States, was bom at
Kinderhook, N. Y., Dec. 5,
1782. He died at the same
place, July 24, 1862. His
body rests in the cemetery
at Kinderhook. Above it is
a plain granite shaft fifteen feet
high, bearing a simple inscription
about half way up on one face.
The lot is unfenced, unbordered
or unbounded by shrub or flower.

Tliere is but little in the life of Martin Van Buren
of romantic interest. He fought no battles, engaged
in no wild adventures. Thougii his life was stormy in
ix)litical and intellectual conflicts, and he gained many
signal victories, his days passed uneventful in those
.incidents which give zest to biography. His an-
cestors, as his iiame indicates, were of Dutch origin,
and were among tiie earliest emigrants from Holland
to the banks of the Hudson. His father was a farmer,
residing in the old town of Kinderhook. His mother,
also of Dutch lineage, was a woman of superior intel-
ligence and exemplary piety.

He was decidedly a precocious boy, developing un-_
usual activity, vigor and strength of mind. At the
age of fourteen, he had finished his academic studies
in his native village, and commenced the study of
law. As he luid not a collegiate education, seven
years of study in a law-office were re(iuired of him
before he could be admitted to the bar. Inspired with
a lofty ambition, and conscious of his powers, he pur-
sued his studies with indefatigable industry. After
ij'.ending si.K years \\\ an office in hjs native village,

he went to the city of New York, and prosecuted his
studies for the seventh year.

In 1S03, Mr. Van Buren, then twenty-one years of
age, commenced the practice of law in his native vil-
lage. The great conflict between the Federal and
Republican party was then at its height. Mr. Van
Buren was from the beginning a politician. He had,
perhaps, imbibed that spirit while listening to the
many discussions which had been carried on in his
father's hotel. He was in cordial sympathy with
Jefferson, and earnestly and eloquently espoused tlie
cause of State Rights ; though at that time the Fed-
eral party held the supremacy both in his town
and State.

His success and increasing ruputation led him
after six years of practice, to remove to Hudson, th.
county seat of his county. Here he spent seven years
constantly gaining strength by contending in the-
courts with some of the ablest men who have adorned
the bar of his State.

Just before leaving Kinderhook for Hudson, Mi.
Van Buren married a lady alike distinguished for
beauty and accomplishments. After twelve short
years she sank into the grave, the victim of consump-
tion, leaving her husband and four sons to weep ovei
her loss. For twenty-five years, Mr. Van Buren was
an earnest, successful, assiduous lawyer. The record
(if those years is barren in items of [)ublic interest.
In 181 2, when thirty years of age, he was chosen to
the State Senate, and gave his strenuous support to
Mr. Madison's adminstration. In 1815, he was ap-
pointed Attorney-General, and the next year moved
to Albany, the capital of the State.

While he was acknowledged as one of the most
pominent leaders of the Democratic party, he had

4'^

MARTIN VAN BVREN.

ihe moral courage to avow that true democracy did
not require that " universal suffrage" which admits
;he vile, the degraded, the ignorant, to the right of
governing the State. In true consistency with his
democratic principles, he contended that, while the
jiath leading to the privilege of voting should be open
to every man without distinction, no one should be
invested with that sacred prerogative, unless he were
in some degree qualified for it by intelligence, virtue
and some property interests in the welfare of the
State.

In 182 I he was elected a member of the United
States Senate; and in the same year, he took a seat
in the convention to revise the constitution of his
native State. His course in this convention secured
Ihe approval of men of all parties. No one could
doubt the singleness of his endeavors to promote the
interests of all classes in the community. In the
Senate of the United States, he rose at once to a
conspicuous position as an active and useful legislator.

In 1827, John Quincy Adams being then in the
Presidential chair, Mr. Van Buren was re-elected to
.tie Senate. He had been from the beginning a de-
jermined opposer of the Administration, adopting the
-'State Rights" view in opposition' to what was
deemed the Federal proclivities of Mr. Adams.

Soon after this, in 1828, he was chosen Governorof
the State of New York, and accordingly resigned his
seat in the Senate. Probably no one in the United
States contributed so much towards ejecting John Q.
Adams from the Presidential chair, and placing in it
Andrew Jackson, as did Martin Van Buren. Whether
entitled to the reputation or not, he certainly was re-
garded throughout the United States as one of the
most skillful, sagacious and canning of politicians.
It was supposed that no one knew so well as he how
;o touch the secret springs of action; how to pull all
;he wires to put his machinery in motion; and how to
organize a political army wliich would, secreily and
fte^'thily accomplish the most gigantic results. By
these powers it is said that he outv.'itted Mr. Adams,
Mr. Clay, Mr. Webster, and secured results which
tew thought then could be accomplished.

When .\ndrew Jackson w.as elected President he
appointed Mr. Van Buren Secretary of State. This
]X)silion he resigned in 1831, and was immediately
appointed Minister to England, \Vhere he went the
same autumn. Tlie Senate, however, when it met,
refused to ratify the nomination, and he returned

home, apparently untroubled; was nominated Vice
President in the place of Calhoun, at the re-election
of President Jackson; and with smiles for all and
frowns for none, he took his place at the head of tliat
Senate which had refused to confirm his nomination
as ambassador.

His rejection by the Senate roused all the zeal of
President Jackson in behalf of his repudiated favor-
ite ; and this, probably more than any other cause,
secured his elevation to the chair of the Chief Execu
tive. On the 20th of May, 1836, Mr. Van Buren re-
ceived the Democratic nomination to succeed Gen.
Jackson as President of the United States. He was
elected by a handsome majority, to the delight of the
retiring President. " Leaving New York out of the
canvass," says Mr. Parton, "the election of Mr. Van
Buren to the Presidency was as much the act of Gen.
Jackson as though the Constitution had conferred
upon him the power to appoint a successor."

His administration was filled with exciting events.
The insurrection in Canada, which threatened to in
volve this country in war with England, the agitation
of the slavery question, and finally the great commer-
cial panic which spread over the country,.all were
trials to his wisdom. The financial distress was at-
tributed to the management of the Democratic party,
and brought the President into such disfavor that he
failed of re-election.

With the exception of being nominated for the
Presidency l)y the "Free Soil" Democrats, in 1848,
Mr. Van Buren lived quietly u[)on his estate until
his death.

He had ever been a prudent man, of frugal liabits.
and living within his income, had now fortunately a
comiietence for his declining years. His unblemished
character, his commanding abilities, his unquestioned
patriotism, and the distinguished positions which he
had occupied in the government of our country, se-
cured to him not only the homage of his party, but
the respect ot the whole community. It was on the
4th of March, 1841, that Mr. Van Buren retired from
the presidency. From his fine estate at Lindenwald^
he still exerted a powerful influence upon the politics
of the country. From this time until his deatli, on
the 24th of July, 1S62, at the age of eighty years, he
resided at Lindenwald, a gentleman of leisure, of
culture and of wealth; enjoyirg in a healthy old
age, probably far more liappiness than he liad before
experienced amid the stormy scenes of his active life.

/i^. J^ )9<^.iyL^

NINTH PRESIDENT.

wiLtiAM "m&^m 1411^®!

ILLIAM HENRY HARRI-
SON, the ninth President of
the United States, was born
at Berkeley, Va., Feb. 9, 1773.
His father, Benjamin Harri-
son, was in comparatively op-
ulent circumstances, and was
one of the most distinguished
then of his day. He was an
intimate friend of George
Washington, was early elected
a member of the Continental
Congress, and was consijicuous
among the patriots of Virginia in
resisting the encroachments of the
British crown. In the celebrated
Congress of 1775, Benjamin Har-
rison and John Hancock were
both candidates for the office of
si)eaker.

Mr Harrison was subsequently
chosen Governor of Virginia, and
was twice re-elected. His son,
i William Henry, of course enjoyed

in childhood all the advantages which wealth and
intellectual and cultivated society could give. Hav-
ing received a tliorough common-school education, he
entered Hampden Sidney College, where he gradu;ited
with honor soon after the death of his father. He
--len repaired to Philadelphia to study medicine undtr
the instructions of Dr. Rush and the guardianshiji of
lobert Morris, both of whom were, with his father,
■■igners of the Declaration of Independence.

.'Jl>on the outbreak of the Indian troubles, and not-
withstanding the remonstrances of his friends, he
abandoned his medical studies and entered the army,
having obtained a commission of Ensign from Presi-

dent Washington. He was then but 19 years old.
From that time he passed gradually upward in rank
until he became aid to General Wayne, after wiiose
death he resigned his commission. He was tlien ap-
pointed Secretary of the North-western Territory. This
Territory was then entitled to but one member in
Congress and Capt. Harrison was chosen to fill that
position.

In the spring of 1800 the North-western Territory
was divided by Congress into two portions. The
eastern portion, comprising the region now embraced
in the State of Ohio, was called '' The Territory
north-west of the Ohio." The western portion, which
included what is now called Indiana, Illinois and
Wisconsin, was called the "Indiana Territory." Wil-
liam Henry Harrison, then 27 years of age, was aji-
jwinted by John Adams, Governoi' of the Indiana
Territory, and immediately after, also Governor of
Upper Louisiana. He was thus ruler over almost as
extensive a realm as any sovereign upon the globe. He
was Superintendent of Indian Affairs, and was in-
vested with powers nearly dictatorial over the now
rapidly increasing white population. The ability and
fidelity with which he discharged these resjionsible
duties may be inferred from the fact that he was four
times appointed to this office — first by John Adams,
twice by Thomas Jefferson and afterwards by Presi-
dent Madison.

When he began his adminstration there were but
three white settlements in that almost boundless region,
now crowded with cities and resounding with all the
tumult of wealth and traffic. One of these settlements
was on the Ohio, nearly opposite Louisville; one at
Vincennes, on the Wabash, and the third a French
settlement.

The vast wilderness over which Gov. Harrisoi.
reigned was filled with many tribes of Indians. Abou'

LIBfiARy
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS
AT UfiSAMA- CHAMPAIGN

WILLIAM HENRY HARRISON.

the year 1806, two extraordinary men, twin brothers,
of the Shawnese tribe, rose among them. One of
these was called Tecumseh, or " Tlie Crouching
Panther;" the other, Olliwacheca, or "The Prophet."
Tecumseh was not only an Indian warrior, but a man
of great sagacity, far-reaching foresight and indomit-
able perseverance in any enterprise ni which he might
engage. He was inspired with the highest enthusiasm,
and had long regarded with dread and with hatred
the encroachment of the whites upon the hunting-
grounds of his fathers. His brother, the Prophet, was
anorator, wlio could sway the feelings of the untutored
Indian as the gale tossed the tree-tops beneath which
they dwelt.

But the Prophet was not merely anorator: he was,
in the superstitious minds of the Indians, invested
with the superhuman dignity of a medicine-man or a
magician. With an enthusiasm unsurpassed by Peter
the Hermit rousing Europe to the crusades, he went
from tribe to tribe, assuming that he was specially sent
by the Great Spirit.

Gov. Harrison made many attempts to conciliate
the Indians, but at last the war came, and at Tippe-
canoe the Indians were routed with great slaughter.
October 28, 18 12, his army began its march. When
near the Prophet's town three Indians of rank made
their appearance and inquired wliy Gov. Harrison was
approaching them in so hostile an attitude. After a
short conference, arrangements were made for a meet-
ing the next day, to agree upon terms of peace.

But Gov. Harrison was too well acquainted with
the Indian character to be deceived by such protes-
tations Selecting a favorable sijot for his night's en-
campment, he took every precaution against surprise.
His troops were posted in a hollow square, and slept
upon their arms.

The troops threw themselves upon the ground for
rest; but every man had his accourtrements on, his
loaded musket by his side, and his bayonet fixed. The
wakeful Governor, between three and four o'clock in
the morning, had risen, and was sitting in conversa-
tion with his aids by the embers of a waning fire. It
was a chill, cloudy morning with a drizzling rain. In
the darkness, the Indians had crept as near as possi-
ble, and just then, with a savage yell, rushed, with all
the desperation which superstition and i)assion most
highly inflamed could give, upon the left flank of the
little army. The savages had been amply provided
with guns and ammunition by the English. Their
war-whoop was accompained by a shower of bullets.

The camp-fires were instantly extinguished, as the
light aided the Indians in their aim. With hide-
jus yells, the Indian bands rushed on, not doubting a
speedy and an entire victory. But Gen. Harrison's
troops stood as immovable as the rocks around them
until day dawned : they then made a simultaneous
charge with the liayonet, and swept every thing be-
fore them, and completely routing the foe.

Gov. Harrison now had all his energies tasked
to the utmost. The British descending from the Can -
adas, were of themselves a very formidable force ; but
with their savage allies, rushing like wolves from the
forest, searching out every remote farm-house, burn-
ing, plundering, scalping, torturing, the wide frontier
was pluiiged into a state of consternation which even
the most vivid imagination can but faintly conceive.
The war-whoop was resounding everywhere in the
forest. The horizon was illuminated with the conflagra-
tion of the cabins of the settlers. Gen Hull had made
the ignominious surrender of his forces at Detroit.
Under these despairing circumstances. Gov. Harrison
was appointed by President Madison commander-in-
chief of the North-western army, with orders to retake
Detroit, and to protect the frontiers.

It would be difficult to place a man in a situation
demanding more energy, sagacity and courage; bui
General Harrison was found equal to the position,
and nobly and triumphantly did he meet all the re
sponsibilities.

He won the love of his soldiers by always sharing
with them their fatigue. His whole baggage, while
pursuing the foe up the Thames, was carried in a
valise; and his bedding consisted of a single blanket
lashed over his saddle. Thirty-five British officers,
his prisoners of war, supped with him after the battle.
The only fare he could give them was beef roasted
before the fire, without bread or salt.

In 18 r 6, Gen. Harrison was chosen a member of
the National House of Representatives, to represent
the District of Ohio. In Congress he proved an
active member; and whenever he spoke, it was with
force of reason and power of eloquence, which' arrested
the attention of all the members.

In 1819, Harrison was elected to the Senate of
Ohio; and in 1824, as one of the presidential electors
of that State, he gave his vote for Henry Clay. The
same year he was chosen to the United States Senate.

In 1836, the friends of Gen. Harrison brought him
forward as a candidate for the Presidency against
Van Buren, but he was defeated. At the close of
Mr. Van Buren's term, he was re -nominated by his
party, and Mr. Harrison was unanimously nominated
by the Whigs, with John Tyler for the Vice Presidency.
The contest was very animated. Gen Jackson gave
all his influence to prevent Harrison's election ; but
his triumph was signal.

The cabinet which he formed, with Daniel Webster
at its head as Secretary of State, was one of the most
brilliant with which any President had ever been
surrounded. Never were the prospects of an admin-
istration more flattering, or the hopes of the country
more sanguine. In the midst of these bright and
jo)'ous prospects. Gen. Harrison was seized by a
pleurisv-fever and after a few days of violent sick-
ness, died on the 4th of April; just one month after
his inauguration as President of the United States.

'"vrL

TENTH PRESIDENT.

tenth
Ja Presidentof the United States.
He was born in Charles-city
Co., Va., March 29, 1790. He
was the favored child of af-
fluence and high social po-
sition. At the early age of
twelve, John entered AVilliam
and Mary College and grad-
uated with much honor when
but seventeen years old. After
graduating, he devoted him-
self with great assiduity to the
study of law, partly with his
father and p.irtly with Kdmund
Randolph, one of the most distin-
guished lawyers of Virginia.

At nineteen years of age, ne
commenced the practice of law.
His success was rapid and aston-
ishing. It is said that three
months had not elapsed ere there
was scarcely a case on the dock-
et of the court in which he was
not retained. When but twenty-one years of age, he
was almost unanimously elected to a seat in the State
Legislature. He connected himself with the Demo-
i:ratic party, and warmly advocated the measures of
Jefferson and Madison. For five successive years he
was elected to the Legislature, receiving nearly the
unanimous vote or his county.

When but twenty-six years of age, he was elected
a member of Congress. Here he acted earnestly and
ably with the Democratic party, opposing a national
bank, internal improvements by the General <<)vern-

ment, a protective tariff, and advocating a strict con-
struction of the Constitution, and the most careful
vigilance over State rights. His labors in Congress
were so arduous that before the close of his second
term he found it necessary to resign and retire to his
estate in Charles-city Co., to recruit his health. He,
however, soon after consented to take his seat in the
State Legislature, where his influence was powerful
in promoting public works of great utility. With a
reputation thus canstantly increasing, he was chosen
by a very large majority of votes. Governor of his
native State. His administration was signally a suc-
cessful one. His popularity secured his re-election.

John Randolph, a brilliant, erratic, half-crazed
man, then represented Virginia in the Senate of the
United States. A portion of the Democratic party
was displeased with Mr. Randolph's wayward course,
and brought forward John Tyler as his opponent,
considering him the only man in Virginia of sufficient
popularity to succeed against the renowned orator of
Roanoke. Mr. Tyler was the victor.

In accordance with his professions, upon taking his
seat in the Senate, he joined the ranks of the opposi-
tion. He opposed the tariff; lie spoke against and
voted against the bank as unconstitutional ; he stren-
uously opposed all restrictions upon slavery, resist-
ing all projects of internal improvements by the Gen-
eral Government, and avowed his sympathy with Mr.
Calhoun's view of nullification ; he declared that Gen.
Jackson, by his opposition to the nuUifiers, had
abandoned the principles of the Democratic party.
Such was Mr. Tyler's record in Congress, — a record
in perfect accordance with the principles which he
had always avowed.

Returning to Virginia, he resumed the practice of
his profession. There was a rplit in the Democratic

JOHN TYLER.

party. His friends still regarded him as a true Jef-
fersonian, gave him a dinner, and showered coraph-
nients ujK)n him. He had now attained the age of
forty-six. His career had been very brilliant. In con-
sequence of his devotion to public business, his pri-
vate affairs had fallen into some disorder; and it was
not without satisfaction that he resumed the practice
of law, and devoted himself to the culture of his plan-
tation. Soon after tliis he removed to Williamsburg,
for the better education of his children ; and he again
took his seat in the Legislature of Virginia.

By the Southern Whigs, he was sent to the national
convention at Harrisburg to nominate a President in
1839. The majority of votes were given to Gen. Har-
rison, a genuine Whig, much to the disapjwintment of
the South, who wished for Henry Clay. To concili-
ate the Southern Whigs and to secure their vote, the
convention then nominated John Tyler for Vice Pres-
ident. It was well known that he was not in sympa-
thy with the Whig party in the Noilh : but the Vice
President has but very little power in the Govern-
ment, his main and almost only duty being to pre-
side over the meetings of the Senate. Thus it hap-
pened that a Whig President, and, in reality, a
Democratic Vice President were chosen.

In 1841, ^ir. Tyler was inaugurated Vice Presi-
dent of the United States. In one short month from
that time, Eresident Harrison died, and Mr. Tyler
thus -cund himself, to his own surprise and that of
the whole Nation, an occupant of the Presidential
chair. This was a new test of the stability of our
institutions, as it was the first time in the history of our
country that such an event had occured. Mr. Tyler
was at home in Williamsburg when he received the
unexpected tidings of the death of President Harri-
son. He hastened to Washington, and on the 6th of
April was inaugurated to the high and responsible
office. He was placed in a position of exceeding
delicacy and difficulty. All his longlife he had been
opposed tc the main principles of the party which had
brought him into power. He had ever been a con-
sistent, honc.t man, with an unblemished record.
Gen. Harrison had selected a Whig cabinet. Should
he retain them, and thus suiround himself with coun-
sellors whose views were antagonistic to his own .'' or,
on the other hand, should he turn against the party
whicii had elected him and select a cabinet in har-
mony with himself, and which would opiX)se all those
views which the Whigs deemed essential to the pub-
lic welfare? This was his fearful dilemma. He in-
vited the cabinet which President Harrison had
selected to retain their seats. He reccommended a
day of fasting and prayer, that God would guide and
bless us.

The Whigs carried through Congress a bill for the
incor|X)ration of a fiscal bank of the United States.
The President, after ten days' delay, returned it with
his veto. He tsugeested, however, that he would

approve of a bill drawn up upon such a plan as he
proiX)sed. Such a bill was accordingly prepared, and
privately .<:ubmitted to him. He gave it his approval.
It was passed without alteration, and he sent it back
with his veto. Here commenced the open rupture.
It is said that Mr. Tyler was provoked to this meas-
ure by a published letter from the Hon. John M.
Botts, a distinguished Virginia Whig, who severely
touched the pride of the President.

The opposition now exultingly received the Presi-
dent into their arms. The party which elected him
denounced him bitterly. AH the members of his
cabinet, excepting Mr. AVebster, resigned. The Whigs
of Congress, both the Senate and the House, held a
meeting and issued an address to the people of the
United States, proclaiming that all political alliance
between the Whigs and President Tyler were at
an end.

Still the President attempted to conciliate. He
appointed a new cabmet of distinguished Whigs and
Conservatives, carefully leaving out all strong party
men. Mr. Webster soon found it necessar)' to resign,
forced out by the pressure of his Whig friends. Thus
the four years of Mr. Tyler's unfortunate administra-
tion passed sadly away. No one viras satisfied. The
land was filled with murmurs and vituperation. Whigs
and Democrats alike assailed him. More and more,
however, he brought himself into sympathy with his
old friends, the Democrats, until at the close of his term,
he gave his whole influence to the support of Mr.
Polk, the Democratic candidate for his successor.

On the 4th of March, 1845, he retired from the
harassments of office, tothe regret of neither party, and
probably to his own unspeakable relief. His first wife,
Miss Letitia Christian, died in Washington, in 1842;
and in June, r844. President Tyler was again married,
at New York, to Miss Julia Gardiner, a 3'oung lady of
many personal and intellectual accomplishments.

The remainder of his days Mr. T\ ler passed mainly
in retirement at his beautiful home, — Sherwood For-
est, Charles-city Co., Va. A polished gentleman in
his manners, richly furnished with information from
books and experience in the world, and possessing
brilliant powers of conversation, his family circle was
the scene of unasual attractions. With sufficient
means for the exercise of a generous hospitaliU', he
might have enjoyed a serene old age with the few
friends who gathered around him, were it not for the
storms of civil war which his own principles and
jK)licy had helped to introduce.

When the great Rebellion rose, which the State-
rights and nullifying doctrines of Mr. John C. Cal-
houn had inaugurated, President Tyler renounced his
allegiance to the United States, and joined the Confed-
erates. He was chosen a member of their Congress;
and while engaged in active measures to destroy, by
force of arms, the Government over which he had
once presided, he was taken sick and soon died.

'■%(' -

ELEVENTH PRESIDENT.

\ AMESK. POLK, the eleventh
|],jj President of the United States,
^V was born in Mecklenburg Co.,
,3 N. C.,Nov. 2, 1795. His par-
.■aai) "^'^'^ were Samuel and Jane
(Knox) Polk, the former a son
of Col. Thomas Polk, who located
at the aI)ove place, as one of the
first pioneers, in 1735.

In the year 1006, with his wife
and children, and soon after fol-
lowed by most of the members of
the Polk famly, Samuel Polk emi-
grated some two or three lumdred
miles farther west, to the rich valley
of the Duck River. Here in the
midst of the wilderness, in a region
which was subsequently called Mau-
ry Co., they reared their log huts,
and established their homes. In the
hard toil of a new farm in the wil-
derness, James K. Polk s[)ent the
early years of his childhood and
youth. His father, adding the pur-
suit of a surveyor to that of a farmer,
gradually increased in wealth until
he became one of the leading men of the region. His
mother was a superior woman, of strong common
sense and earnest piety.

Very early in life, James developed a taste for
reading and ex[)ressed the strongest desire to obtain
a liberal education. His mother's training had made
liim methodical in his habits, had taught him punct-
uality and industry, and had inspired him with lofty
principles of morality. His health was frail ; and his
father, fearing that he might not be able to endure a

sedentary life, got a situation for him behind the

counter, hoping to fit him for commercial pursuits.

This was to James a bitter disappointment. He

had no taste for these duties, and his daily tasks

were irksome in the e.xtreme. He remained in this

uncongenial occupation but a few weeks, when at his

earnest solicitation his father removed him, and made

arrangements for him to prosecute his studies. Soon

after he sent him to Murfreesboro Academy- ^Vith
f ^

ardor which could scarcely be surpassed, he pressed
forward in his studies, and in less than two and a half
years, in the autumn of 1815, entered the sophomore
class in the University of North Carolina, at Cliapel
Hill. Here he was one of the most exemplary of
scholars, punctual in every exercise, never allowing

himself to be absent from a recitation or a relii;ious
service.

He graduated in 1818, with the highest honors, be*
ing deemed the best scholar of his class, both in
mathematics and the classics. He was then twenty-
three years of age. Mr. Polk's health was at this
time much impaired by the assiduity with which he
had prosecuted his studies. After a short season of
relaxation he went to Nashville, and entered the
office of Felix Grundy, to study law. Here Mr. Polk
renewed his acquaintance with Andrew Jackson, who
resided on his plantation, the Hermitage, but a few
miles from Nashville. They had probably been
slightly acquainted before.

Mr. Polk's father was a Jeffersonian Republican,
and James K. Polk ever adhered to the same politi-
cal faith. He was a popular public speaker, and was
constantly called upon to address the meetings of his
party friends. His skill as a speaker was such that
he was popularly called the Napoleon of the stump.
He was a man of unblemished morals, genial and

/AMES K. POLK.

:ourterus in his bearing, and with that sympathetic
nature in the jo) s and griefs of others which ever gave
him troops of friends. In 1S23, Mr. Polk was elected
to the Legislature of Tennessee. Here he gave his
strong influence towards the election of his friend,
-Mr. Jackson, to the Presidency of the United States.

In January, 1824, Mr. Polk married Miss Sarah
Childress, of Rutherford Co., Tenn. His bride was
altogether worthy of him, — a lady of beauty and cul-
ture. In the fall of 1825, Mr. Polk was chosen a
membor of Congress. The satisfaction which he gave
to his constituents may be inferred from the fact, that
for fourteen successive years, until 1839, he was con-
tinuec' in that office. He then voluntarily withdrew,
only l^at he might accept the Gubernatorial chair
of Tennessee. In Congress he was a laborious
member, a frequent and a popular speaker. He was
always in his seat, always courteous ; and whenever
he spoke it was always to the point, and without any
ambitious rhetorical display.

During five sessions of Congress, Mr. Polk was
Speaker of the House Strong passions were roused,
and stormy scenes were witnessed ; but Mr, Polk per-
formed his arduous duties to a verj' general satisfac-
tion, and a unanimous vote of thanks to him was
passed by the House as he withdrew on the 4th of
March, 1839.

In accordance with Southern usage, Mr. Polk, as a
candidate for Governor, canvassed the State. He was
elected by a large majority, and on the 14th of Octo-
bfer, 1839, took the oath of office at Nashville. In 1841,
his term of office expired, and he was again the can-
didate of the Democratic party, but was defeated.

On the 4th of March, iS45,Mr. Polk was inaugur-
ated President of the United States. The verdict of
the countryin favor of the annexation of Texas, exerted
its influence ujxjn Congress ; and the last act of the
administration of President Tyler was to affix his sig-
nature to a joint resolution of Congress, passed on the
^d of March, approving of the annexation of Texas to
the American Union. As Mexico still claimed Texas
as one of her provinces, the Mexican minister,
Almonte, immediately demanded his passports and
left the country, declaring the act of the annexation
to be an act hostile to Mexico.

In his first message. President Polk urged that
Texas should immediately, by act of Congress, be re-
ceived into the Union on the same fooling with the
other States. In the meantime. Gen. Taylor was sent

with an army into Texas to hold the country. He was
sent first to Nueces, which the Mexicans said was the
western boundary of Texas. Then he was sent nearly •
two hundred miles further west, to the Rio Grande,
where he erected batteries which commanded the
Mexican city of Matamoras, which was situated or
the western banks.

The anticipated collision soon took place, and wa:
was declared against Mexico by President Polk. The
war was pushed forward by Mr. Polk's administration
with great vigor. Gen. Taylor, whose army was first
called one of "observation," then of "occupation,'
then of " invasion, "was sent forward to Monterey. The
feeble Mexicans, in every encounter, were hopelessly
and awfully slaughtered. The day of judgement
alone can reveal the misery which this war caused.
It was by the ingenuity of Mr. Polk's administration
that the war was brought on.

'To the victors belong the spoils." Mexico was
prostrate before us. Her capital was in our hands
We now consented to peace upon the condition that
Mexico should surrender to us, in addition to Texas,
all of New Mexico, and all of Upper and Lower Cal-
ifornia. This new demand embraced, exclusive of
Texas, eight hundred thousand square miles. This
was an extent of territory equal to nine States of the
size of New York, Thus slavery was securing eighteen
majestic States to be added to the Union. There were
some Americans who thought it all right : there wtre
others who thought it all wrong. In the prosecution
of this war, we expended twenty thousand lives and
more than a hundred million of dollars. Of this
money fifteen millions were paid to Mexico.

On the 3d of March, 1849, Mr. Polk retired from
office, having served one term. The next day was
Sunday. On the 5th, Gen. Taylor was inaugurated
as his successor, Mr, Polk rode to the Capitol in the
same carriage with Gen. Taylor; and the same even-
ing, with Mrs. Polk, he commenced his return to
Tennessee. He was then but fifty-four years of age.
He had ever been strictly temperate in all his habits,
and his health was good. With an ample fortune,
a choice library, a cultivated mind, and domestic ties
of tlie dearest nature, it seemed as though long years
of tranquility and happiness were before him. But the
cholera— that fearful scourge — was then sweeping up
tlie Valley of the Mississippi. This he contracted,
and died on the 15th of June, 1849, in the fifiv-fourth.
year of his age, greatly mourned by his couriirymc,';

7^^:^^:^^^i^L.-'>2^/(^^^t^^^>^^: —

TWELFTH PRESIDENT.

ia^^

^'^SSi^

v^^r

^iJ-

^ ACHARY 'I'AYLOR, twelfth

f;>) President of the United States,

|j"'was born on the 24th of Nov.,

1 7 84, in Orange Co., Va. His

So father, Colonel Taylor, was

a Virginian of note, and a dis-

■^ tinguished patriot and soldier of
the Revolution. When Zachary
was an infant, his father with his
wife and two children, emigrated
to Kentucky, where he settled in
the pathless wilderness, a few
miles from Louisville. In this front-
ier home, away from civilization and
all its refinements, young Zachary
:ouUl enjoy but few social and educational advan-
tages. When six years of age he attended a common
school, and was then regarded as a bright, active boy,
rather remarkable for bluntness and decision of char-
acter He was strong, feailess and self-reliant, and
iianifested a strong desire to enter the army to fight
?he Indians who were ravaging tlie frontiers. There
is little to lie recorded of the uneventful years of his
childhood on his father's large but lonely plantation.
In 1S08, his father succeeded in obtaining for him
the commission of lieutenant in the United States
army ; and he joined the troops which were stationed
at New Orleans under Gen. Wilkinson. Soon after
this he married Miss Margaret Smith, a young lady
'rom one of the first families of Maryland.

Immediately after the declaration of war with Eng-
land, in 18 1 2, Capt. Taylor (for he had then been
promoted to that rank) was put in command of Fort
Harrison, on the Wabash, about fifty miles above
Vincennes. This fort had been built in the wilder-
ness by Gen. Harrison,on his march to Tippecanoe.
It was one of the first points of attack by the Indians,
kd by Tecumseh. Its garrison consisted of a broken

company of infantry numbering fifty men, many of
whom were sick.

Early in the autumn of 18 12, the Indians, stealthily,
and in large numbers, moved upon the fort. Tlic.r
approach was first indicated by the murder of two
soldiers just outside of the stockade. Capt. Taylor
made every possible preparation to meet the antici-
pated assault. On the 4th of September, a band of
forty painted and plumed savages came to the fort,
waving a white flag, and informed Capt. Taylor that
in the morning their chief would come to liave a talk
with him. It was evident that their object was merely
to ascertain the state of things at the fort, and Capt.
Taylor, well versed in the wiles of the savages, kejjt
them at a distance.

The sun went down; the savages disappeared, the
garrison slept upon their arms. One hour before
midnight the war whoop burst from a thousand lips
in the forest around, followed by the discharge of
musketry, and the rush of the foe. Every man, sick
and well, sprang to his post. Every man knew that
defeat was not merely death, but in the case of cap-
ture, death by the most agonizing and prolonged tor-
ture. No pen can describe, no immagination can
conceive the scenes which ensued. The savages suc-
ceeded in setting fire to one of the block-houses-
Until si.x o'clock in the morning, this awful conflict
continued. The savages then, baffled at every point,
and gnashing their teeth with rage, retired. Capt.
Taylor, for this gallant defence, was promoted to the
rank of major Ity brevet. •

Until the close of the war. Major Taylor was placed
in such situations that he saw but little more of active
service. He was sent far away into the depths of the
wilderness, to Fort Crawford, on Fox River, which
empties into Green Bay. Here there was but little
to be done but to wear away the tedious hours as one
best could. There were no books, no society, no in-

ZACHARY TAYLOR ■

tellectual stimulus. Thus with him the uneventful
. years rolled oil Gradually he rose to the rank of
colonel. In the Black Hawk war, which resulted in
tlie capture of that renowned chieftain, Col Taylor
took a subordinate but a brave and efficient part.

For twenty-four years Col. Taylor was engaged in
the defence of the frontiers, in scenes so remote, and in
employments so obscure, that his name was unknown
oeyond the limits of his own immediate acquaintance.
In the year 1S36, he was sent to Florida to compel
the Seminole Indians to vacate that region and re-
tire beyond the Mississippi, as their chiefs by treaty,
ha.f promised they should do. The services rendered
he.e secured for Col. Taylor the high appreciation of
the Government; and as a reward, he was elevated
tc ;he rank of brigadier-general by brevet ; and soon
after, in May, 1838, was appointed to the chief com-
mand of the United States troops in Florida.

After two years of such wearisome employment
amidst the everglades of the peninsula. Gen. 'Faylor
obtained, at his own request, a change of command,
r.nd was stationed over the Department of the South-
west. This field embraced Louisiana, Mississippi,
Alabama and Georgia. Establishing his headquarters
at Fort Jessup, in Louisiana, he removed his fixmily
to a plantation which he purchased, near Baton Rogue.
Here he remained for five years, buried, as it were,
f'rom the world, but faithfully discharging every duty
imjxjsed upon him.

In 1846, Gen. Taylor was sent to guard the land
between the Nueces and Rio Grande, the latter river
being the boundary of Texas, which was then claimed
i)y the United States. Soon the war with Me.xico
was brought on, and at Palo Alto and Resaca de la
Palma, Gen. Taylor won brilliant victories over the
Me.xicans. The rank of major-general by brevet
was then conferred upon Gen. Tajlor, and his name
was received with enthusiasm almost everywhere in
the Nation. Then came the battles of Monterey and
Buena Vista in which he won signal victories over
forces much larger than he commanded.

His careless habits of dress and his unaffected
r-implicity, secured for Gen. Taylor among his troops,
the sobriquet of " Old Rough and Ready.'

Tne tidings of the brilliant victory of Buena Vista
;"pread the wildest enthusiasm over the country. The
name of Gen. Taylor was on every one's lips. The
U'hig party decided to take advantage of this wonder-
ful popularity in bringing forward the unpolished, un-
lettered, honest soldier as their candidate for the
Presidency. Gen. Taylor was astonished at the an-
nouncement, and for a time would not listen to it; de-
claring that he was not at all tjualified for such an
office. So little interest had he taken in ]3olitics that,
for forty years, he had net cast a vote. It was not
without chagrin that several distinguished statesmen
who had been long years in the public sersnce found
*/.iir claims set aside in behalf of one *fhose name

had never been heard of, save in connection with Palo
Alto, Resaca de la Palma, Monterey and Buena
Vista. It is said that Daniel Webster, in his haste re-
marked, " It is a nomination not fit to be made."

Gen. Taylor was not an eloquent speaker nor a fine
writer His friends took possession of him, and pre-
pared such few communications as it was needful
should be presented to the public. The popularity of
the successful warrior swept the land. He was tri-
umphantly elected over two opposing candidates, —
Gen. Cass and Ex-President Martin Van Buren.
Though he selected an excellent cabinet, the good
old man found himself in a very uncongenial position,
and was, at times, sorely perplexed and harassed.
His mental sufferings were very severe, and probably
tended to hasten his death. The pro-slavery party
was pushing its claims with tireless energy , expedi-
tions were fitting out to capture Cuba ; California was
pleading for admission to the Union, while slavery
stood at the door to bar her out. Gen. Taylor found
the political conflicts in Washington to be far more
trying to the nerves than battles with IMexicans or
Indians

In the midst of all these troubles. Gen. Taylor,
after he had occupied the Presidential chair but little
over a year, took cold, and after a brief sickness of
but little over five days, died on the 9th of July, 1850.
His last woids were, "I am not afraid to die. I am
ready. I have endeavored to do my duty." He died
universally respected and beloved. ^An honest, un-
pretending man, he had been steadily growing in the
affections of the people ; and the Nation bitterly la-
mented his death.

Gen. Scott, who was thoroughly acquainted with
Gen. Taylor, gave the following graphic and truthful
description of his character: — " With a gooci store of
common sense. Gen. Taylor's mind had not been en-
larged and refreshed by reading, or much converse
with the world. Rigidity of ideas was the conse-
quence. The frontiers and small military posts had
been his home. Hence he was quite ignorant for his
rank, and quite bigoted in his ignorance. His sim-
plicity was child-like, and with innumerable preju-
dices, amusing and incorrigible, well suited to the
tender age. Thus, if a man, however respectable,
chanced to wear a coat of an unusual color, or hisha!
a little on one side of his head; or an officer to leave
a corner of his handkerchief dangling from an out
side pocket, — in any such case, this critic held the
offender to be a co.xcomb (perhaps something worse),
whom he would not, to use his oft repeated phrase,
'touch with a pair of tongs.'

"Any allusion to literature beyond good old r)il-
worth's spelling-book, on the part of one wearing a
sword, was evidence, with the same judge, of utter
unfitness for heavy marchings and combats. In shorf
few men have ever had a more comforcanie, lanc;-
saving contempt for learning of evei'y kind."

-^j^f^ JL

THIRTEENTH PRESIDENT.

$^\^^$"^$#$;;S>&■S'S^§^?^;,^r|JJ~;,$55»$;•;$<s.•J;;;'Jl§.$;;;$rS)$;|;$•^

MlLLMn FILLMHRE.

-■^

'«'

>®f| ILLARD FILLMORE, thii-
■•1^ tcenth Presidentof the United
^1' States, was born at Summer
,;/ Hill, Cayuga Co., N. Y ., on
the yth of January, 1800. His
father was a farmer, and ow-
ing to misfortune, in humble cir-
cumstances. Of his mother, the
daughter of Dr. Abiathar Millard,
of Pittsfield, Mass., it has been
said that she possessed an intellect
of very high order, united with much
personal loveliness, sweetness of dis-
position, graceful manners and ex-
([uisite sensibilities. She died in
1831 ; liaving lived to see her son a
young man of distinguished prom-
ise, though she was not permitted to witness the high
dignity which he finally attained.

In consequence-of tlie secluded home and limited
means of his father, Millard enjoyed but slender ad-
vantages for education in his early years. The com-
mon schools, rtiiich he occasionally attended were
verv imperfect institutions; and books were scarce
and expensive. There was nothing then in his char-
acter to indicate the brilliant career upon which he
was about to enter. He was a plain farmer's boy ;
intelligent, good-looking, kind-hearted. The sacred
influences of home had taught him to revere the Bible,
and had laid the foundations of an upright character.
When fourteen years of age, his father sent him
some hundred miles from home, to the then wilds of
Livingston County, to learn the trade of a clothier,
Neai' the mil! there was a small villiage, where some

enterprising man liad commenced the collection of a
village library. This proved an inestimable blessing
to young Fillmore. His evenings were spent in read-
ing. Soon every leisure moment was occupied v, iih
books. His thirst for knowledge became insatiate
and the selections which he made were continually
more elevating and instructive. He read history
biography, oratory, and thus gradually there was en-
kindled in his heart a desire to be something more
than a mere worker with his hands; and he was be-
coming, almost unknown to himself, a well-informed,
educated man.

The young clothier had now attained the age of
nineteen years, and was of fine personal ap|)earanre
and of gentlemanly demeanor. It so hapjiened tha'.
there was a gentleman in the neighborhood of ample
pecuniary means and of benevolence, — Judge Walter
AV'ood, — who was struck with the prepossessing au-
pearance of young Fillmore. He made his acquaint-
ance, and was so much impressed with his ability and
attainments that he advised him to abandon his
trade and devote himself to the study of the law. The
young man replied, that he had no means of his own,
r.o friends to help him and that his previous educa-
tion had been very imperfect. But Judge AVood had
so much confidence in him that he kindly offered to
take him into his own office, and to loan him such
money as he needed. Most gratefully the generous
offer was accepted.

There is in many minds a strange delusion abou':
a collegiate education. A young man is supposed tn
be liberally educated if he has graduated at some col-
lege. But many a boy loiters through university hal' :,
Hnd then enters a law office, who is by no means fes

MILLARD FILLMORE.

well prepared to prosecute his legal studies as was
Millard Fillmore when he graduated at the clothing-
mill at the end of four years of manual labor, during
which every leisure moment had been devoted to in-
tense mental culture.

In 1823, when twenty-three years of age, he was
admitted to the Court of Common Pleas. He then
went to the village of Aurora, and commenced the
practice of law. In this secluded, peaceful region,
his practice of course was limited, and there was no
opportunity for a sudden rise in fortune or in fame.
Here, iiT the year 1826, he married a lady of great
moral worth, and one capable of adorning any station
she might be called to fill, — Miss Abigail Powers.

His elevation of character, his untiring industry,
his legal acquirements, and his skill as an advocate,
gradually attracted attention ; and he was invited to
enter into partnership under highly advantageous
circumstances, with an elder member of the bar in
Buffalo. Just before removing to Buffalo, in 1S29,
he took his seat in the House of Assembly, of the
State of New York, as a representative from Erie
County. Though he had never taken a very active
part in politics, his vote and his sympathies were with
the Whig party. The State was then Democratic,
and he found himself in a helpless minority in the
Legislature , still the testimony comes from all parties,
that his courtesy, ability and integrity, won, to a very
unusual degn e the respect of his associates.

In the autmiin of 1832, he was elected to a seat in
the United States Congress. He entered that troubled
irena in some of the most tumultuous hours of our
national history. The great conflict respecting the
national bank and the removal of the deposits, was
then raging.

His term of two years closed ; and he returned to
his profession, which he pursued with increasing rep-
utation and success. After a lapse of two years
he again became a candidate for Congress ; was re-
elected, and took his seat in 1837. His past expe-
rience as a representative gave hmi stiength and
confidence. The first term of service in Congress to
any man can be but little more than an introduction.
He was now prepared for active duty. All his ener-
gies were brought to bear upon the public good. Every
measure received his impress.

Mr. Fillmore was now a man of wide repute, and
his popularity filled the State, and in the year 1847,
he was elected Comptroller of the Stat^.

Mr. Fillmore had attained the age of forty-seven
years. His labors at the bar, in the Legislature, in
Congress and as Comptroller, had given him very con^
siderable fame. The Whigs were casting about to
find suitable candidates for President and Vice-Presi-
dent at the approaching election. Far away, on the ,
waters of the Rio Grande, there was a rough old
soldier, who had fought one or two successful battles
with the Mexicans, which had caused his name to be
proclaimed in trumpet-tones all over the land. But
it was necessary to associate with him on the same
ticket some man of reputation as a statesman.

Under the influence of these considerations, tlie
namesofZachary Taylor and Millard Fillmore became
the rallying-cry of the Whigs, as their candidates for
President and Vice-Peesident. The Wliig ticket was
signally triumphant. On the 4th of March, 1S49,
Gen. Taylor was inaugurated President, and Millard
Fillmore Vice-President, of the United States.

On the f)th of July, 1850, President Taylor, but
about one year and four months after his inaugura-
tion, was suddenly taken sick and died. By the Con-
stitution, Vice-President Fillmore thus became Presi-
dent. He appointed a very able cabinet, of which
the illustrious Uaniel Webster was Secretary of State.

Mr. Fillmore had very serious difficulties to contend
with, since the opposition had a majority in both
Houses. He did everything in his power to conciliate
the South; but the pro-slavery party in the .South felt
the inadequacy of all measuresof transient conciliation.
The population of the free States was so rapidly in-
creasing over that of the slave States that it was in-
evitable that the power of the Government sliould
soon pass into the hands of the free States. The
famous compromise measures were adopted under Mr.
Fillmcre's adminstration, and the Japan Ex[>edition
was sent out. On the 4th of March, 1853, Mr, Fill-
more, having served one term, retired.

In 1856, Mr. Fillmore was nominated for the Pres-
idency by the " Know Nothing " party, but was beaten
by Mr. Buchanan. After that Mr. Fillmore lived in
retirement. During the terrible conflict of civil war,
he was mostly silent. It was generally supposed that
his sympathies were rather with those who were en-
deavoring to overthrow our institutions. President
Fillmore kept aloof from the conflict, without any
cordial words of cheer to the one party or the other.
He was thus forgotten by both. He lived to a ripe
old age, and died in Buffalo. N. Y., March 8, 1874-

FOURTEENTH PRESIDENT.

^ '' "" ^FHflNKLIN PIERCE- ^^ .^^ -.,:,,,, .::::^^

^ RANKLIN PIERCE, the

^ tointeenth President of the

' United States, was born in

' ''%\(sA!>^dT'^-''^ Hillsborough, N. H., Nov.
vt... . ^rvo < ■ . - L 2 J, 1804. His father was a
Revolutionary soldier, who,
with his own strong ami,
hewed out a home in the
wilderness. He was a man
of inflexible integrity; of
strong, though uncultivated
mind, and an uncompromis-
ing Democrat. The mother of
Franklin Pierce was all that a son
could desire, — an intelligent, pru-
dent, affectionate, Christian wom-
an. Franklin was the sixth of eight children.

Franklin was a very bright and handsome boy, gen-
erous, warm-hearted and brave. He won alike the
love of old and young. The boys on the play ground
loved him. His teachers loved him. The neighbors
looked upon him with pride and affection. He was
by instinct a gentleman; always speaking kind words,
doing kind deeds, with a peculiar unstudied tact
which taught him what was agreeable. Without de-
veloping any precocity of genius, or any unnatural
devotion to books, he was a good scholar; in body,
in mind, in affections, a finely-developed boy.

When sixteen years of age, in the year 1820, he
entered Bowdoin College, at Brunswick, Me He was
one of the most poi^ular young men in the college.
The purity cf his moral character, the unvarying
courtesy of his demeanor, his rank as a scholar, and

genial nature, rendered him a universal favoiite
There was something very peculiarly winning in his
address, and it was evidently not in the slightest de-
gree studied : it was the simple outgushing of his
own magnanimous and loving nature.

Upon graduating, in the year 1824, Franklin Pierce
commenced the study of law in the office of Judge
Woodbury, one of the most distinguished lawyers of
the State, and a man of great private worth. Thi'
eminent social qualities of the young lawyer, his
father's prominence as a i)ublic man, and the brilliant
political career into which Judge Woodbury was eii-
tering, all tended to entice Mr. Pierce into the fici-
nating yet perilous path of political life. With all
the ardor of his nature he es[>oused the cause of Gen.
Jackson for the Presidency. He commenced the
practice of law in Hillsborough, and was soon elected
to represent the town in the State Legislature. Here
he served for four yeais. The last two years he was
chosen speaker of the house by a very large vote.

In 1833, at the age of twenty-nine, he was elected
a member of Congress. Without taking an active
part in debates, he was faithful and laljorious in duty,
and ever rising in the estimation of those with whom
he was associatad.

In 1837, being then but thirty-three years of age,
he was elected to the Senate of the United States;
taking his seat just as Mr. Van Buren commenced
his administration. He was the youngest member in
the Senate. In the year 1834, he married Miss Jane
Means Appleton, a lady of rare beauty and accom-
plishments, and one admirably fitted to adorn every
station with which her husband was honoiod. Of the

FRANKLIN PIERCE.

three sons who were born to them, all now sleep with
their parents in the grave.

In the year 1838, Mr. Pierce, with growing fame
and increasing business as a lawyer, took up his
residence in Concord, the capital of New Hampshire.
President Polk, ujwn his accession to office, appointed
Mr. Pierce attorney-general of the United States; but
the offer was declined, in consequence of numerous
professional engagements at home, and the precariuos
state of Mrs. Pierce's health. He also, about the
same time declined the nomination for governor by the
Democratic party. The war with Mexico called Mr.
Pierce in the army. Receiving the appointment of
brigadier-general, he embarked, with a portion of his
troops, at Newport, R. I., on the 27th of Maj', 1847.
He took an important part in this war, proving him-
self a brave and true soldier.

When Gen. Pierce reached his home in his native
State, he was received enthusiastically by the advo-
cates of the ISTe-xican war, and coldly by his oppo-
nents. He resumed the practice of his profession,
very frequently taking an active part in political ques-
tions, giving his cordial support to the pro-slavery
wing of the Democratic party. The compromise
measures met cordially with his approval ; and he
strenuously advocated the enforcement of the infa-
mous fugitive-slave law, which so shocked the religious
sensibilities of the North. He thus became distin-
guished as a " Northern man with Southern principles.''
The strong partisans of slavery in the South conse-
quently regarded him as a man whom they could
safely trust in office to carry out their plans.

On the I 2th of June, 1852, the Democratic conven-
tion met in Baltimore to nominate a candidate for the
Presidency. For four days they continued in session,
and in thirty-five ballotings no one had obtained a
two-thirds vote. Not a vote thus far had been thrown
for Gen. Pierce. Then the Virginia delegation
brought forward his name. There were fourteen
more ballotings, during which Gen. Pierce constantly
gained strength, until, at the forty-ninth ballot, he
received two hundred and eighty-two votes, and all
other candidates eleven. Gen. Winfield Scott was
the Whig candidate. Gen. Pierce was chosen with
great unanimity. Only four States — Vermont, Mas-
sachusetts, Kentucky and Tennessee — cast their
electoral votes against him Gen. Franklin Pierce
was therefore inaugurated President of the United
States on the 4th of March, 1853.

His admiflistration proved one of the most stormy our
country had ever e.xperienced. The controversy be-
tween slavery and freedom was then approaching its
culminating point. It became evident that there was
an "irrepressible conflict" between them, and that
this Nation could not long e.xist " half slave and half
free." President Pierce, during the whole of his ad-
ministration, did every thing he could to conciliate
the South ; but it was all in vain. The conflict every
year grew more violent, and threats of the dissolution
of the Union were borne to the North on every South-
ern breeze.

Such was the condition of afi"airs when President
Pierce approached the close of his four-years' term
of office. The North h'ad become thoroughly alien-
ated from him. The anti-slavery sentiment, goaded
by great outrages, had been rapidly increasing; all
the intellectual ability and social worth of President
Pierce were forgotten in deep reprehension of his ad-
ministrative acts. The slaveholders of the. South, also,
unmindful of the fidelity with which he had advo-
cated those measures of Government which they ap-
proved, and perhaps, also, feeling that he had
rendered himself so unpopular as no longer to be
able acceptably to serve them, ungratefully dropped
him, and nominated James Buchanan to succeed him.

On the 4th of March, 1857, President Pierce re-
tired to his home in Concord. Of three children, two
had died, and his only surviving child had been
killed before his eyes by a railroad accident ; and his
wife, one of the most estimable and accomplished of
ladies, was rapidly sinking in consumption. The
hour of dreadful gloom soon came, and he was left
alone in the world, without wife or child.

When the terrible Rebellion burst forth, which di-
vided our country into two parties, and two only, Mr.
Pierce remained steadfast in the principles which he
had always cherished, and gave his sympathies to
that pro-slavery party with which he had ever been
allied. He declined to do anything, either by voice
or pen, to strengthen the hand of the National Gov-
ernment. He continued to reside in Concord until
the time of his death, which occurred in October,
1869. He was one of the most genial and social of
men, an honored communicant of the Episcopal
Church, and one of the kindest of neighbors. Gen-
erous to a fault, he contributed liberally for the al-
leviation of suffering and want, and many of his towns-
people were often gladened by his material bounty.

--fe>«..

(Z^Z^J (^'auo-/l^/yp2.€^y^^

I'IFTEENTH PRESIDENT.

■ «<«

- »>»

l<'^tgg>i^t!^i^i^t^>^(^t^r;^,':.',.vi, ■.,':

\:^y ■• ■ ' ."j f^s^csiitgiit^ '^■^t^t^'^^ ;^JTj

■'v.V^i'("';V^i-^.':.',<^;:;',V;',V,i^;:i,iV;t ,.'1^,-1,.;^.

*ts)

»»>

AMES BUCHANAN, the fit-
s^gleeiith President of the United
1^ States, was born in a small
frontier town, at the foot of the
eastern ridL;e of the Alleglia-
nies, in FrankUnCo., Penn.,on
the 23d of Ainii, 1791. The I'lace
where the humble cabin of his
father stood was called Stony
'' Batter. It was a wild and ro-
mantic siiot in a gorge of the moun-
tains, witli towering summits rising
grandly all around. His father
was a native of the north of Ireland ;
a poor man, who had emigrated in
1783, with little property save his
own strong arms. Five years afterwards he married
Elizabeth Spear, the daughter of a respectable farmer,
and, with his youug bride, plunged into the wilder-
ness, staked his claim, reared his log-hut, opened a
clearing with his axe, and settled down there to per-
form his obscure part in the drama of life. In this se-
cluded home, where James was born, he remained
for eight years, enjoying but few social or intellectual
advantages. When James was eight years of age, his
father removed to the village of Mercersburg, where
his son was placed at school, and commenced a
courseofstudy in English, Latin and Greek. His
progress was rapid, and at the age of fourteen, he
entered Dickinson College, at Carlisle. Here he de-
veloped remarkable talent, and took his stand among
the first scholars in the institution. His application
to study was intense, and yet his native powers en-

abled him to master the most abstruse subjects with
facility.

In the year 1809, he graduated with the highest
honors of his class. He was then eighteen years of
age; tall and graceful, vigorous in health, fond of
athletic siiort, an unerring shot, and enlivened with
an e.xuberant flow of animal spirits. He immediately
commenced the study of law in the city of Lancaster,
and was admitted to the bar in 1812, when he was
but twenty-one years of age. Very rapidly he rose
in his profession, and at once took undisputed stand
with the ablest lawyers of the State. When but
twenty-si.x years of age, unaided by counsel, he suc-
cessfully defended before the State Senate oie of liie
judges of the State, who was tried upon articles of
impeachment. At the age of thirty it was generally
admitted that he stood at the head of the Ijar; and
there was no lawyer in the State who had a more lu-
crative practice.

In 1820, he reluctantly consented to run as a
candidate for Congress. He was elected, and for
ten years he remained a member of the Lower House.
During the vacations of Congress, he occasionally
tried some important case. In 1S31, he retired
altogether from the toils of his profession, having ac-
(piired an ample fortune.

Gen. Jackson, upon his elevation to the Presidency,
appointed Mr. Buchanan minister to Russia. The
duties of his mission he jjerformed with ability, which
gave satisfaction to all parties. Lfpon his return, in
r 833, he was elected to a seat in the United States
Senate. He there met, as his associates, V/ebster,
Clay, ^\■right and Calhoun. He advocated the meas-
ures proposed by President Jackson, of luiting repri-

7<5

JMAfES BUCHANAN.

sals against France, to enforce the payment of our
claims against that country ; and defended the course
of the Pre,-.ident in his unprecedented and wholesale
removal from office of those who were not the sup-
porters of iiis administration. Upon this question he
was brought into direct collision with Henry Clay.
He also, with voice and vote, advocated expunging
from the journal of the Senate the vote of censure
against Gen. Jackson for removing the deposits.
Earnestly he opposed the abolition of slavery in the
District of Columbia, and urged the prohibition of the
circulation of anti-slavery documents by the United
States mails.

As to petitions on tlie subject of slavery, he advo-
cated that they should be respectfully received; and
that the rejily should be returned, that Congress had
no power to legislate upon the subject. " Congress,"
said he, " might as well undertake to interfere with
slavery under a foreign government as in any of tlie
States where it now exists."

Upon Mr. Polk's accession to the Presidency, Mr.
Buchanan became Secretary of State, and as such,
took his share of the responsibility in the conduct of
the Mexican War. Mr. Polk assumed that crossing
the Nueces by the American troops into the disputed
territory was not wrong, but for the Mexicans to cross
the Rio (trande into that territory was a declaration
of war. No candid man can read with pleasure the
account of tlie course our Government pursued in that
movement.

Mr. Buchanan identified himself thoroughly w-ith
the party devoted to the perpetuation and extension
of slavery, and brought all the energies of his mind
to bear against the W'ilmot Proviso. He gave his
cordial approval to the compromise measures of 1S50,
which included the fugitive-slave law. Mr. Pierce,
upon his election to the Presidency, honored Mr.
Buchanan with the mission to England.

In the year 1856, a national Democratic conven-
tion nominated Mr. Buciianan for the Presidency. The
political conflict was one of the most severe in which
our country has ever engaged. All the friends of
slavery were on one side; all the advocates of its re-
striction and final abolition, on the other. Mr. Fre-
mont, the candidate of the enemies of slavery, re-
reived 114 electoral votes. Mr. Buchanan received
174, and was elected. The [wpular vote stood
1,340,618, for Fremont, 1,224,750 for ESuchanan. On
March 4th. 1857, Mr. Buchanan was inaugurated.

Mr. Buchanan was far advanced in life. Only four
vears were wanting to fill up his threescore years and
ten. His own friends, those with whom he had been
all'.ed in jjolitical i)rinciples and action for years, were
seeking the destruction of the Government, that they
might rear upon the ruins of our free institutions a
nation whose corner-stone should be human slavery.
In this emergency, Mr. Buchanan was hopelessly be-
wildered He could not, with his long-avowed prin-

ciples, consistently oppose the State-rights party in
their assumptions. As President of the United States,
bound by his oath faithfully to administer the laws
he could not, without perjury of the grossest kind,
imite with those endeavoring to overthrow tlie repub-
lic. He therefore did nothing.

The opponents of Mr. Buchanan's administration
nomin.aied Abraham Lincoln as their standard bearer
in the ne.xt Presidential canvass. The pro-slaverv
party declared, that if he were elected, and the con-
trol of the Government were thus taken from their
hands, they would secede from the Union, taking
with them, as they retired, the National Capitol at
Wasliington, and the lion's share of the territory of
the United States.

Mr. Buchanan's sympathy with the pro-slavery
party was such, that he had been willing to offer them
far more than they had ventured to claim. All the
South had professed to ask of the North was non-
intervention upon the subject of slavery. Mr. Bu-
chanan had been ready to offer them the active co-
operation of the Government to defend and extend
the institution.

As the storm increased in violence, the slaveliolders
claiming the right to secede, and Mr. Buchanan avow-
ing that Congress liad no power to prevent it, one of
the most pitiable exhibitions of governmental im-
becility was exhibited the world has ever seen. He
declared that Congress had no power to enforce its
laws in any State which hnd withdrawn, or which
was attempting to withdraw from the Union. This
was not the doctrine of .Andrew Jackson, when, with
his hand upon his sword-hilt, he e.xclaimed. " The
Union must and shall be preserved!"

South Carolina seceded in December, i860; nearly
three months before the inauguration of President
Lincoln. Mr. Buchanan looked on in listless despair.
The rebel flag was raised in Charleston: Fort Sampler
was besieged ; our forts, navy-yards and arsenals
were seized; our depots of military stores were plun-
dered ; and our custom-houses and post-offices were
appropriated by the rebels.

The energy of the rebels, and the imbecility of our
Executive, were alike marvelous. The Nation looked
on in agony, waiting for the slow weeks to glide away,
and close the administration, so terrible in its weak-
ness At length the long-looked-for hour of deliver-
ance came, when Abraham Lincoln was to receive the
scepter.

The administration of President Buchanan was
certainly the most calamitous our country has ex-
perienced. His best friends cannot recall it with
])leasure. And still more deplorable it is for his fame,
that in that dreadful conflict which rolled its billows
of flame and blood over our whole land, no word came
from his lips to indicate his wish that onr countrv'^
banner should triumph over the flag of the rebellio".
H-^ died at his Wheatland retreat, June i, 1868.

Q^j^^-<^^'

't^TI^x

SIXTEENTH PRESIDENT.

ABRAHAM >

)S2il^J^J^

•^ < LlNCOLNn > i

I'.RAHAM LINCOLN, the
sixteenth President of the
J United States, was horn in
Hardin Co., Ky., Feb. 12,
i<So9. About the year 1780, a
man by the name of Abraham
Lincohi left Virginia with his
family and moved into the then
wilds of Kentucky. Only two years
after this emigration, still a young
man, while working one day in a
field, was stealthily approached by
an Indian and shot dead. His widow
was left in extreme poverty with five
little children, three boys and two
girls. Thomas, the youngest of the
boys, was four years of age at his
father's death. Tiiis Thomas was
the father of .Abraham Lincoln, the
President of the United States
whone name must henceforth fcever be enrolled
with the most prominent in the annals of our world.
Of course no record has been kept of the life
of one so lowly as Thomas Lincoln. He was among
the poorest of the (loor. His home was a wretched
log -cabin; his food the coarsest and the meanest.
Education he had none; he could never either read
or write. As soon as he was able to do anything for
himself, he was compelled to leave the cabin of his
starving mother, and push out into the world, a friend-
.ess, wandering boy, seeking work. He hired him-
self out, and thus spent the whole of his youth as a
laliorer in the fields of others.

When twenty-eight years of age he built a log-
cabin of his own, and married Nancy Hanks, the
daughter of another family of poor Kentucky emi-
grants, who had also come from Virginia. Their
second child was Aliraham Lincoln, the subject of
this sketch. The mother of Abraham was a noble
woman, gentle, loving, pensive, created to adorn
a palace, doomed to toil and pine, and die iri a hovel.
"All ihat I am, or hope to be," e.xclaims the grate-
ful son " I owe to my angel-mother.

When he was eight years of age, his father sold his

Whert

cabin and small farm, and moved to Indiana
two years later his mother died.

Abraham soon liecame the scribe of the uneducated
community around him. He could not have had a
better school than this to teach him to put thoughts
into words. He also became an eager reader. The
books he could obtain were few ; but these he read
and re-read until they were almost committed to
memory.

As the years rolled on, tlie lot of this lowly family
was the usual lot of humanity. There were joys and
griefs, weddings and funerals. Abraham's sister
Sarah, to whom he was tenderly attached, was mar-
ried when a child of Ijut fourteen years of age, and
soon died. The family was gradually scattered. Mr.
Thomas Lincoln sold out liis squatter's claim in 1830,
and emigrated to Macon Co., 111.

Abraham Lincoln was then twenty-one years of age.
With vigorous hands he aided his father in rearing
another log-cabin. Abraham worked diligently at thi>
until he saw the family comfortably settled, and their
small lot of enclosed prairie planted with corn, when
he announced to his fatlier his intention to leave
home, and to go out into the world and seek his for-
tune. Little did he or his friends imagine how liril-
liant that fortune was to be. He saw the value of
education, and was intensely earnest to improve his
mind to the utmost of his power. He saw the ruin
which ardent spirits were causing, and became
strictly temi)erate; refusing to allow a drop of intoxi-
cating liquor to pass his lips. And he had read in
God's word, " Thou shalt not take the name of the
Lord thy God in vain ;" and a profane expression he
was never heard to utter. Religion he revered. His
morals were pure, and he was uncontaminated by a
single vice.

Young Abraham worked for a time as a hired laborer
among the farmers. Then he went to Springfield,
where he was employed in building a large flat-boat.
In this he took a herd of swine, floated them down
the Sangamon to the Illinois, and thence Ijy the Mis-
sissippi to New Orleans. W'hatever Abraham I,in-
coln undertook, he performed so faithfully as to give
great satisfaction to his employers. In this adven-

ABRAHAM LINCOLN.

tare his employeis were so well pleased, that upon
his return tiiey placed a store and mill under his care.

In 1832, at the outbreak of the Black Hawk war, he
enlisted and was chosen captain of a company. He
returned to Sangamon County, and although only 23
years of age, was a candidate for the Legislature, but
was defeated. He soon after received from Andrew
lackson the appointmentof Postmaster of New Salens,
His only post-office was his hat. All the letters he
received he carried there ready to deliver to those
he chanced to meet. He studied surveying, and soon
made this his business. In 1834 hg again became a
candidate for the Legislature, and was elected Mr.
Stuart, of Springfield, advised him to study law. He
walked from New Salem to Springfield, borrowed of
iVir. Stuart a load of books, carried them back and
began his legal studies. When the Legislature as-
sembled he trudged on foot with his pack on his back
one hundred miles to Vandalia, then the capital. In
1836 he was re-elected to the Legislature. Here it
was he first met Stephen A. Douglas. In 1839 he re-
moved to Springfield and began the practice of law.
His success with the jury was so great that he was
soon engaged in almost every noted case in the circuit.

In 1854 the great discussion began between Mr.
Lincoln and Mr. Douglas, on the slavery question.
In the organization of the Republican party in Illinois,
in 1856, he took an active part, and at once became
one of the leaders in that party. Mr. Lincoln's
speeches in opposition to Senator Douglas in the con-
test in 1858 for a seat in the Senate, form a most
notable part of his history. The issue was on the
ilavery question, and he took the broad ground of
.he Declaration of Independence, that all men are
created equal. Mr. Lincoln was defeated in this con-
test, but won a far higher prize.

The great Republican Convention met at Chicago
on the i6th of June, i860. The delegates and
strangers who crowded the city amounted to twenty-
five thousand. An immense building called "The
Wigwam," was reared to accommodate the Conven-
tion. There were eleven candidates for whom votes
were thrown. William H. Seward, a man whose fame
as a statesman had long filled the land, was tiie most
urominent. It was generally supposed he would be
the nominee. Abraham Lincoln, however,' received
the nomination on the third ballot. Little did he then
dream of the weary years of toil and care, and the
bloody death, to which that nomination doomed him:
and as little did he dream that he was to render services
to his country, which would fi.x upon him the eyes of
the whole civilized world, and which would give him
a place in the affections of his countiymen, second
only, if second, to that of Washington.

Election day came and Mr. Lincoln received 180
electoral votes out of 203 cast, and was, therefore,
constitution.iUy elected President of the United States.
The tirade of abuse that vas [Mured uixin this good

and merciful man, especially by the slaveholders, was
greater than upon any other man ever elected to this
high position. In February', 1S61, Mr. Lincoln started
for Washington, stopping in all the large cities on his
way making speeches. The whole journey was froughi
with much danger. Many of the Southern Stales hud
already seceded, and several attempts at assassination
were afterwards brought to light. A gang in Balti-
more had arranged, upon his arrival to "get up a row,"
and in the confusion to make sure of his death witii
revolvers and hand-grenades. A detective unravelled
the plot. A secret and special train was provided to
take him from Harrisburg, through Baltimore, at an
une.xpected hour of the night. The train started at
half-past ten; and to prevent any possible communi-
cation on the part ot the Secessionists with their Con-
federate gang in Baltimore, as soon as the train had
started the telegraph-mres were cut. Mr. Lincoln
reached Washington in safety and was inaugurated,
although great an.xiety was felt by all loyal people

In the selection of his cabinet Mr. Lincoln gave
to Mr. Seward the Department of State, and to other
prominent opix)nents before the convention he gave
important iX)sitions.

During no other administration have the duties
devolving upon the President been so manifold, and
the responsibilities so great, as those which fell to
the lot of President Lincoln. Knowing this, and
feeling his own weakness and inability to meet, and in
his own strength to cope with, the difficulties, he
learned early to seek Divine wisdom and guidance in
determining his plans, and Divine comfort in all his
trials, bo»h personal and national. Contrary to his
own estimate of himself, Mr. Lincoln was one of the
most courageous of men. He went directly into the
rebel capital just as the retreating foe was leaving,
with no guard but a few sailors. From the tisie he
had left Springfield, in 1861, however, plans had been
made for his assassination, and he at last fell a victim
to one of them. April 14, 1865, he, with Gen. Grant,
was urgently invited to attend Fords' Theater. It
was announced that they would be present. Gen.
Grant, however, left the city. President Lincoln, feel-
ing, with his characteristic kindliness of heart, that
it would be a disappointment if he should fail them,
very reluctantly consented to go. While listening to
the play an actor by the name of John Wilkes Booth
entered the bo.x where the President and family were
seated, and fired a bullet into his brains. He died the
next morning at seven o'clock.

Never before, in the history of the world was a nation
plunged into such deep grief by the death of its ruler.
Strong men met in the streets and wept in speechless
anguish. It is not too much to say that a nation was
in tears. His was a life which will filly become a
model. His name as tjie savior of his country ""ili
live with that of Washington's, its father; hiscf^-:ntry-
mcn bein" unable to decide whi< h is t'"; ereaict.

^^^^:^^^^:2t^2>t^

SE VENTEENTH PRESIDED T.

mmmmM'm nnik^-ismM^

NDREW JOHNSON, seven-
teenth President of the United
^States. The early Wic of
Andrew Johnson contains but
the record of poverty, destitu-
tion and frieiidlessness. He
was born December 29, 180S,
in Raleigh, N. C. His parents,
belonging to the class of the
"poor whites " of the South, were
in such circumstances, that they
could not confer even the slight-
est advantages of education upon
their child. When Andrew was five
years of age, his father accidentally
!ost nis life while herorically endeavoring to save a
friend from drowning. Until ten years of age, Andrew
was a ragged boy about the streets, supported by the
labor of his mother, who obtained her living with
her own hands.

He then, having never attended a school one day,
and being unable either to read or write, was ap-
prenticed to a tailor in his native town. A gentleman
was in the habit of going to the tailor's shop occasion-
ally, and reading to the boys at work there. He often
read from the speeches of distinguished British states-
men. Andrew, who was endowed with a mind of more
than ordinary native ability, became much interested
in these speeches ; his ambition was roused, and he
was inspired with a strong desire to learn to read.

He accordingly applied himself to the alphabet, and
with the assistance of some of his fellow- workmen,
learned his letters. He then called upon the gentle-
man to borrow the book of speeches. The owner,

pleased with his zeal, not only gave him the book
but assisted him in learning to combine the letters
into words. Under such difficulties he pressed 01.
ward laboriously, spending usually ten or twelve hours
at work in the shop, and then robbing himself of rest
and recreatiori to devote such time as he could to
reading.

He went to Tennessee in 1826, and located at
Greenville, where he married a young lady who pos
sessed some education. Under her instructions he
learned to write and cipher. He became prominent
in the village debating society, and a favorite with
the students of Greenville College. In 1828, he or-
ganized a working man's party, which elected him
alderman, and in 1830 elected him mayor, which
position he held three years.

He now began to take a lively interest in political
affairs; identifying himself with the working-classes,
to which he belonged. In 1835, he was elected a
member of the House of Representatives of Tennes-
see. He was then just twenty-seven years of age.
He became a very active member of the legislature
gave his adhesion to the Democratic party, and in
1840 "stumped the State," advocating Martin Tan
Buren's claims to the Presidency, in opposition to thos..
of Gen. Harrison. In this campaign he acquired mucli
readiness as a speaker, and extended and increased
his reputation.

In 1841, he was elected State Senator; in 1843, he
was elected a member of Congress, and by successive
elections, held that important post for ten years. In
1853, he was elected Governor of Tennessee, and
was re-elected in 1855. In all these res|)onsibIe posi-
tions, he discharged his duties with distinguished abi.

ANDREW JOHNSON.

ity, and proved himself the warm friend of the work-
ing classes. In 1857, Mr. Johnson was elected
United States Senator.

Years before, in 1845, he had warmly advocated
the annexation of Texas, stating however, as his
reason, that he thought this annexation would prob-
ably prove " to be the gateway out of which the sable
sons of Africa are to pass from bondage to freedom,
and become merged in a population congenial to
themselves." In 1850, he also supported the com-
promise measures, the two essential features of which
were, that the white people of the Territories should
be permitted to decide for themselves whether they
would enslave the colored people or net, and that
the *"ree States of the North should return to the
Souih persons who attempted to escape from slaver)'.

Mr. Johnson was neverashamedof his lowly origin:
on the contrary, he often took pride in avowing that
he owed his distinction to his own exertions. "Sir,"
said he oa the floor of the Senate, " I do not forget
that I am a mechanic ; neither do I forget that Adam
was a tailor and sewed fig-leaves, and that our Sav-
ior was the son of a carpenter."

In the Charleston-Baltimore convention of iSuo, iie
was the choice of the Tennessee Democrats for the
Presidency. In 186 1, when the purpose of the South-
irn Democracy became apparent, he took a decided
stand in favor of the Union, and held that " slavery
must be held subordinate to the Union at whatever
cost." He returned to Tennessee, and repeatedly
imperiled his own life to protect the Unionists of
Tennesee. Tennessee having seceded from the
Union, President Lincoln, on March 4th, 1862, ap-
pointed him Military Governor of the State, and he
established the most stringent military rule. His
numerous proclamations attracted wide attention. In

1864, he was elected Vice-President of the United
States, and upon the death of Mr. Lincoln, April 15,

1865, became President. In a speech two days later
he said, " The American people must be taught, if
they do not already feel, that treason is a crime and
must be punished ; that the Government will not
always bear with its enemies ; that it is strong not
only to protect, but to i)unish. * * The people
must understand that it (treason) is the blackest of
crimes, and will surely be punished." Yet his whole
administration, the history of which is so well known,
was in utter iiv.onsistency with, and the most violent

opposition to, the principles laid down in that speech.

In his loose policy of reconstruction and general
amnesty, he was opposed by Congress; and he char-
acterized Congress as a new rebellion, and lawlessly
defied it, in everything possible, to the utmost. In
the beginnirig of 1868, on account of "high crimes
and misdemeanors," the principal of which was the
removal of Secretary Stanton, in violation of the Ten-
ure of Office Act, articles of impeachment were pre-
ferred against him, and the trial began March 23.

It was very tedious, continuing for nearly three
months. A test article of the impeachment was at
length submitted to the court for its action. It was
certain that as the court voted upon that article so
would it vote upon all. Thirty-four voices pronounced
the President guilty. As a two-thirds vote was neces-
sary to his condemnation, he was pronounced ac-
quitted, notwithstanding the great majority against
him. The change of one vote from the not guil/y
side would have sustained the impeachment.

The President, for the remainder of his temi, was
but little regarded. He continued, though impotently,
his conflict with Congress. His own party did not
think it expedient to renominate him for the Presi-
dency. The Nation rallied, with enthusiasm unpar-
alleled since the days of Washington, around the name
of Gen. Grant. Andrew Johnson was forgotten.
The bullet of the assassin introduced him to the
President's chair. Notwithstanding this, never was
there presented to a man a better opportunity to im-
mortalize his name, and to win the gratitude of a
nation. He failed utterly. He retired to his home
in Greenville, Tenn., taking no very active part in
politics until 1875. On Jan. 26, after an exciting
struggle, he was chosen by the Legislature of Ten-
nessee, United States Senator in the forty-fourth Con-
gress, and took his seat in that body, at the special
session convened by President Grant, on the 5th of
March. On the 27th of July, 1875, the e.x-President
made a visit to his daughter's home, near Carter
Station, Tenn. When he started on his journey, he was
apparently in his usu.il vigorous health, but on reach-
ing the residence of his child the following day, was
stricken with paralysis, rendering him unconscious.
He rallied occasionally, but finally passed away at
2 A.M., July 31, aged sixty-seven years. His fun-
eral was attended at Geenville, on the 3d of August,
with every demonstration of respect.

•

/^ ^^--^-^

etgh ternth fresideiyt.

(<§§/9XeVV®)@^yN2s€^^'

LYSSES S. GRANT, the
eighteenth President of the
P United States, was born on
the 29th of April, 1822, of
Christian parents, in a humble
home, at Point Pleasant, on the
banks of the Ohio. Shortly after
his father moved to George-
town, Brown Co., O. In this re-
mote frontier hamlet, Ulysses
received a common-school edu-
cation. At the age of seven-
teen, in the year 1839, lie entered
the Military Academy at West
Point. Here he was regarded as a
soiid, sensible young man of fair abilities, and of
sturdy, honest character. He took respectable rank
as a scholar. In June, 1843, he graduated, about the
middle in his class, and was sent as lieutenant of in-
fantry to one of the distant military posts in the Mis-
souri Territory. Two years he past in these dreary
solitudes, watching the vagabond and exasperating
Indians.

The war with Mexico came. Lieut. Grant was
sent with his regiment to Corpus Christi. His first
battle was at Palo Alto. There was no chance here
for the exhibition of either skill or heroism, nor at
Resaca de la Palma, his second battle. At the battle
of Monterey, his third engagement, it is said that
he performed a signal service of daring and skillful
horsemanship. His brigade had exhausted its am-
munition. A messenger must be sent for more, along
a route exposed to the bullets of the foe. Lieut.
Grant, adopting an expedient learned of the Indians,
grasped the mane of his horse, and hanging upon one
side of the anii^il, ran the gauntlet in entire safety.

From Monterey he was sent, with the fourth infantry,
to aid Gen. Scott, at the siege of Vera Cruz. In
preparation for the march to the city of Mexico, he
was appointed quartermaster of his regiment. At the
battle of Molino del Rey, he was promoted to a
first lieutenancy, and was brevetted captain at Cha-
pultepec.

At the close of the Mexican War, Capt. Grant re-
turned with his regiment to New York, and was again
sent to one of the military posts on the frontier. The
discovery of gold in California causing an immense
tide of emigration to flow to the Pacific shores, Capt.
Grant was sent with a battalion to Fort Dallas, in
Oregon, for the protection of the interests of the im-
migrants. Life was wearisome in those wilds. Capt.
Grant resigned his commission and returned to the
States; and having married, entered upon the cultiva-
tion of a small farm near St. Louis, Mo. He had but
little skill as a farmer. Finding his toil not re-
munerative, he turned to mercantile life, entering into
the leather business, with a younger brother, at Ga-
lena, 111. This was in the year i860. As the tidings
of the rebels firing on Fort Sumpter reached the ears
of Capt. Grant in his counting-room, he said, —
"Uncle Sam has educated me for the army; though
I have served him through one war, I do not feel that
I have yet repaid the debt. I am still ready to discharge
my obligations. I shall therefore buckle on my sword
and see Uncle Sam through this war too."

He went into the streets, raised a company of vol-
unteers, and led them as their captain to Springfield,
the capital of the State, where their services were
offered to Gov. Yates. The Governor, impressed by
the zeal and straightforward executive ability of Capt.
Grant, gave him a desk in his office, to assist in the
volunteer organization that was being formed in the
State in behalf of the Government. On the 15th of

UL YSSES S. GRA NT.

June, 1 86 1, Capt. Grant received a commission as
Colonel of the Twenty-first Regiment of Illinois Vol-
unteers. His merits as a West Point graduate, who
had served for 15 years in the regular army, were such
that he was soon promoted to the rank of Brigadier-
General and was ]3laced in command at Cairo. The
rebels raised their banner at Paducah, near the mouth
of the Tennessee River. Scarcely had its folds ap-
peared in the breeze ere Gen. Grant was there. The
rebels fled. Their banner fell, and the star and
stripes were unfurled in its stead.

He entered the service with great determination
and immediately began active duty. This was the be-
ginning, and until the surrender of Lee at Richmond
he was ever pushing the enemy with great vigor and
effectiveness. At Belmont, a few days later, he sur-
prised and routed the rebels, then at Fort Henrj'
won another victory. Then came the brilliant fight
at Fort Donelson. The nation was electrified by the
victor)', and the brave leader of the boys in blue was
immediately made a Major-General, and the military
district of Tennessee was assigned to him.

Like all great captains. Gen. Grant knew well how
to secure the results of victory. He immediately
Dushed on to the enemies' lines. Then came the
terrible l)attles of Pittsburg Landing, Corinth, and the
siege of Vicksburg, where Gen. Pemberton made an
unconditional surrender of the city with over thirty
thousand men and one-hundred and seventy-two can-
non. The fall of Vicksburg was by far the most
severe blow which the rebels had thus far encountered,
and opened up the >Iississippi from Cairo to the Gulf.

Gen. Grant was next ordered to co-operate with
Gen. Banks in a movement upon Te.\as, and pro-
ceeded to New Orieans, where he was thrown from
his horse, and received severe injuries, from which he
was laid up for months. He then rushed to the aid
of Gens. Rosecrans and Tliomas at Cliattancoga, and
by a v/onderful series of strategic and technical meas-
ures put the Union Army in fighting condition. Then
followed the bloody battles at Chattanooga, Lookout
Mountain and Missionary Ridge, in which the rebels
were routed with great loss. This won for him un-
bounded praise in the North. On the 4th of Febru-
ary, 1864, Congress revived the grade of lieutenant-
general, and the rank was conferred on Gen. Grant.
He repaired to Washington to receive his credentials
-and enter utxsn '.li»> duties of his new office.

Gen. Grant decided as soon as he took charge 0/
the array to concentrate the widely-dispersed National
troops for an attack upon Richmond, the nominal
capital of the Rebellion, and endeavor there to de-
stroy the rebel armies which would be promptly as-
sembled from all quarters for its defence. The whole
continent seemed to tremble under the tramp of these
majestic armies, rushing to the decisive battle field.
Steamers were crowded with troops. Railway trains
were burdened with closely packed thousands. His
plans were comprehensive and involved a series of
campaigns, which were executed ivith remarkable en-
ergy and ability, and were consummated at the sur-
render of Lee, April 9, 1865.

The war was ended. The Union was saved. The
almost unanimous voice of the Nation declared Gen.
Grant to be the most prominent instrument in its sal-
vation. The eminent services he had thus rendered
the countr)' brought him conspicuously forward as the
Republican candidate for the Presidential chair.

At the Republican Convention held at Chicago.
May 21, 186S, he was unanimously nominated for the
Presidency, and at the autumn election received a
majority of the popular vote, and 214 out of 294
electoral votes.

The National Convention of the Republican party
which met at Philadelphia on the 5th of June, 1872,
placed Gen. Grant in nomination for a second term
by a unanimous vote. The selection was emphati-
cally indorsed by the people five months Liter, 292
electoral votes being cast for him.

Soon after the close of his second term, Gen. Grant
started upon his famous trip around the world. He
visited almost every country of the civilized world,
and was everywhere received with such ovations
and demonstrations of respect and honor, private
as well as public and ofiicial, as were never before
bestowed upon any citizen of the United States.

He was the most prominent candidate before the
Republican National Convention in 18S0 for a re-
nomination for President. He went to New York and
embarked in tlie brokerage business under the firm
nameof Grant iS: Ward. The latter proved a villain,
wrecked Grant's fortune, and for larceny was sent to
the penitentiary. The General was attacked with
cancer in the throat, but sufl^ered in his stoic-like
manner, never complaining. He was re-instated as
General of the .^rmy and retired by Congress. The
cancer soon finished its deadly work, and July 23,
1885, the nation went in mourning over the death of
the illustrious General.

'L^.^,

IT'

-J

NINETEENTH VRESIDKNT.

9»

^-as

RUTHERi:ORD B, HAITES.

UTHERFORD B. HAYES,
the nineteenth President of
the United States, was born in
Delaware, O., Oct. 4, i8z2„al-
most three months after the
death of his father, Rutherford
Hayes. His ancestry on both
the paternal and maternal sides,
was of the most honorable char-
acter. It can be traced, it is said,
as far back as 1280, when Hayes and
Rutherford were two Scottish chief-
tains, fighting side by side with
Baliol, William Wallace and Robert
Bruce. Both families belonged to the
nobility, owned extensive estates,
' and had a large following. Misfor-
tune ovwcaking the family, George Hayes left Scot-
Jand in 1680, and settled in Windsor, Conn. His son
George was born in Windsor, and remained there
during his lile. Daniel Hayes, son of the latter, mar-
ried Sarah L.:e, and lived from the time of his mar-
riage until h^s death in Simsbury, Conn. Ezekiel,
son of Daniel, was born in 1724, and was a manufac-
turer of scythes at Bradford, Conn. Rutherford Hayes,
son of Ezekiel and grandfatHer of President Hayes, was
born in New Haven, in August, 1756. He was a farmer,
blacksmith and tavern-keeper. He emigrated to
Vermont at an uiiknown date, settling in Brattleboro,
where he established a hotel. Here his son Ruth-
erford Hayes the father of President Hayes, was

born. He was married, in September, 18 13, to Sophia
Birchard, of Wilmington, Vt., whose ancestors emi-
grated thither from Connecticut, they having been
among the wealthiest and best famlies of Norwich.
Her ancestry on the male side are traced back to
1635, to John Birchard, one of the principal founders
of Norwich. Both of her grandfathers were soldiers
in the Revolutionary War.

The father of President Hayes was an industrious
frugal and opened-hearted man. He was of a me-
chanical turn, and could mend a plow, knit a stock-
ing, or do almost anything else that he choose to
undertake. He was a member of the Church, active
in all the benevolent enterprises of the town, and con-
ducted his business on Christian principles. After
the close of the war of 1812, for reasons inexplicable
to his neighbors, he resolved to emigrate to Ohio.

The journey from Vermont to Ohio in that day
when there were no canals, steamers, nor railways,
was a very serious affair. A tour of inspection was
first made, occupying four months. Mr. Hayes deter
mined to move to Delaware, where the family arrived
in 1S17. He died July 22, 1S22, a victim of malarial
fever, less than three months before the birth of the
son, of whom we now write. Mrs. Hayes, in her sore be-
reavement, found the support she so much needed in
her brother Sardis, who had been a member of the
household from the day of its departure from Ver-
mont, and in an orphan girl whom she had adopted
some time before as an act of charity.

Mrs. Hayes at this period was very weak, and the

RUTHJiJiFORD B. ffAVESl

subject of this sketch was so feeble at binli that he
was not expected to live beyond a month or two at
most. As the months went by he grew weaker and
weaker, so that the neighbors were in the habit of in-
quiring from time to time '" if Mrs. Hayes' baby died
uist night.' On one occasion a neighbor, who was on
familiar terms with the family, after alluding to the
l)oy"s big head, and th;; mother's assiduous care of
aim, said in a bantering way, '• That's right ! Stick to
iiim. You have got him along so far, and I shouldn't
ivonder if he would really come to something yet."

" You need not laugh," said Mrs. Hayes. " You
vait and see. You can't tell but I shall make him
President of the United States yet." The boy lived,
in spite of the universal predictions of his speedy
death; and when, in 1825, his older brother was
drowned, he became, if. possible, still dearer to his
mother.

The boy was seven years old before he w<:nt to
school. His education, however, was not neglected.
He probably learned as much from his mother and
sister as he would have done at school. His sports
were almost wholly within doors, his playmates being
his sister and her associates. These circumstances
tended, no doubt, to foster that gentleness of dispo-
sition, and tliat delicate consideration for the feelings
of others, which are marked traits of his character.

His uncle Sardis Birchard took the deepest interest
in his education ; and as the boy's health had im-
proved, and he was making good progress in his
studies, he proposed to send him to college. His pre-
paration commenced with a tutor at home; but he
was afterwards sent for one year to a professor in the
Wesleyan University, in Middlctown, Conn. He en-
tered Kenyon College in 1S38, at the age of sixteen,
and was graduated at the head of his class in 1842.

Immediately after his graduation he began the
study of law in the office of Thomas Sparrow, Esq.,
in Columbus. Finding his opportunities for study in
Columbus somewhat limited, he determined to enter
the Law School at Cambridge, Mass., where he re-
mained two years.

In 1845, after graduatmg at the Law School, he was
admitted to the bar at Marietta, Ohio, and shortly
afterward went into practice as an attorney-at-law
with Ralph P. Buckland, of Fremont. Here he re-
mained three years, acquiring but a limited practice,
and apparently unambitious of distinction in his pro-
fession.

In 1849 he moved to Cincmnati, where his ambi-
tion found a new stimulus. For several y^ars, how-
ever, his progress was slow. Two events, occurring at
this period, had a powerful influence u[X)n his subse-
quent life. One of these was his marrage with Miss
Lucy Ware Webb, daughter of Dr. James Webb, of
Chiticothe; the othei was his introduction to the Cin-
cinnati Literar)' Club, a body embracing among its
members such men a.s'^hief Justice Salmon P. Chase,

Gen. John Pope, Gov. Edward F. Noyes, and many
others hardly less distinguished in after life. The
marriage was a fortunate one in every respect, as
everybody knows. Not one of all the wives of our
Presidents was more universally admired, reverenced
and beloved than was Mrs. Hayes, and no one did
more than she to reflect honor upon American woman
hood. The Literar}' Cluu brought Mr. Hayes :'nto
constant association with young men of high cliar-
acter and noble aims, and lured him to display ''.le
qualities so long hidden by his bashfulneis and
modesty.

In 1856 he was nominated to the office of Judg; of
the Court of Common Pleas; but he declined to ac-
cept the nomination. Two years later, the office o*
city solicitor becoming vacant, the City Council
elected him for the unexpired term.

In 1861, when the Rebellion broke out, he was ai
the zenith of his professional !ii.. His rank at the
bar was among the the first. But the news of the
attack on Fort Sumpter found him eager to take -in
arms for the defense of his conntrj-.

His military record was bright and illustrious. In
October, 1S61, he v/as made Lieutenant-Colonel, and
in August, 1S62, promoted Colonel of the 79th Ohio
regiment, but he refused to lea.^e his old comrades
and go among strangers. Subsequently, however, he
was made Colonel of his old regiment. At the battle
of South Mountain he received a wound, .and while
faint and bleeding disjjlayed courage r:nd fortitude
that won admiration from all.

Col. Hayes was detached from his regiment, after
his recovery, to act as Brigadier-General, and placed
in command of the celebrated Kanawha division,
and for gallant and meritorious services in the battles
of Winchester, Fisher's Hill and Cedar Creek, he was
promoted Brigadier-General. He was also brevettsd
Major-General, "for gallant and distinguished fervices
during the campaigns of 1864. in AVest Virginia." In
the course of his arduous services, four horses were
shot from under him, and he was wounded four times

In 1864, Gen. Hayes was elected to Congress, from
the Second Ohio District, which had long been Dem-
ocratic. He was not present during the campaign,
and after his election was imix)rtuned to resign his
commission in the army ; but he finally declared, " I
shall never come to Washington until I can come liy
the way of Richmond." He was re-elected in 1866.

Ir. 1867, Gen Hayes was elected Governor cf Ohio,
over Hon. Allen G. Thumian, a populni Democrat.
In 1869 was re-elected over George H. Pendleton.
Ho was elected Governor for tha third term in 1875.

in 1876 he was the standard beaier of the Repub-
lican Party in the Presidential contest, and after a
hard long contest was chosen President, and was in
a\igurated Monday, March 5, 1875. He served his
full term, not, hcwever, with satisfaction to his party,
but his administration was an average nv^

TiVENTIETH PRESIDENT.

^T^r'/^sy^'T?^^

* J.'AA'"'^'*^- ■■* frlvV WPTB?ATf.TO, ft

mmM.

««^;S«s^;S-*^!&*-g;g<i>s;s-^:S-4's:s-#^;g-*g;g*-g:;;-5-^::j*^:g#Svg-«>^;ija

■If I ,ti

AMES A. GARFIELD, twen-
tieth President of the United
States, was born Nov. ig,
1831, in the woods of Orange,
Cuyahoga Co., O His par-
ents were Abram and Eliza
(Ballou) Garfield, both of New
England ancestry and from fami-
lies well known in the early his-
'"^ tory of that section of our coun-
try, but had moved to the Western
Reserve, in Ohio, early in its settle-
ment.

The house in which James A. was
born was not unlike the houses t)f
poor Ohio farmers of that day. It
..IS about 20x30 feet, built of logs, with the spaces be-
,ween the logs filled with clay. His father was a
lard working farmer, and he soon had his fields
.:leared, an orchard planted, and a log barn built.
The household comprised the father and mother and
heir four children — Mehetabel, Thomas, Mary and
'ames. In May, r82 3^ the father, from a cold con-
.racted in helping to put out a forest fire, died. At
ihis time James was about eighteen months old, and
Thomas about ten years old. No one, perhaps, can
ffll how much James was indebted to his biother's
ceil and self sacrifice during the twenty years suc-
ceeding his father's death, but undoubtedly very
much. He now lives in Michigan, and the two sis-
itrs live in Solon, 0.,near their birthplace.

The early educational advantages young Garfield
enjoyed were very limited, yet he made the most of
them. He labored at farm work for others, did car-
penter work, chopped wood, or did anytliing that
would bring in a few dollars to aid his widowed
mother in he' 'tm ggles to keep the little family to-

getlier. Nor was Gen. Garfield ever ashamed of his
origin, and he never forgot the friends of his strug-
gling childhood, youth and manhood, neither did they
ever forget him. When in the highest seats of honor
the humblest fjiend of his boyhood was as kindly
greeted as ever. The poorest laborer was sure of the
sympathy of one who had known all the bitterness
of want and the sweetness of bread earned by the
sweat of the brow. He was ever the simple, plain,
modest gentleman.

The highest ambition of young Garfield until hi
was about si.xteen years old was to be a captain of
a vessel on Lake Erie. He was anxious to go aboard
a vessel, which his mother strongly opposed. She
finally consented to his going to Cleveland, with the
understanding, however, that he should try to obtair
some otlier kind of employment. He walked all the
way to Cleveland. This was his first visit to the city.
After making many applications for work, and trying
to get aboard a lake vessel, and not meeting with
success, he engaged as a driver for his cousin, Amos
Letcher, on the Ohio & Pennsylvania Canal. He re-
mained at this work but a short time when he wen';
Iiome, and attended the seminary at Chester for
about three years, when he entered Hiram and the
Eclectic Institute, teaching a few terms of school in
tlie meantime, and doing other work. This school
was started by the Disciples of Christ in 1S50, of
which church he was then a member. He became
janitor and bell-ringer in order to help pay his way.
He then became both teacher and jinpil. He soon
" exhausted Hiram " and needed more ; hence, in the
fall of 1854, he entered Williams College, from which
he graduated in 1856, taking one of the highest hon-
ors of his class. He afterwards returned to Hiram
College as its President. As above stated, he early
united with the Christian or Diciples Church at
Hiram, and was ever after a devoted, zealous mem-
ber, often preaching in its pulpit and places where
he happened to be. Dr. Noah Porter, President of
Yale College, says of him in reference to his religion :

JAMES A. GARFIELD.

" President Garfield was more than a man of
strong moral and religious convictions. His whole
history, from boyhood to the last, siiows that duty to
man and to God, and devotion to Christ and life and
faith and spiritual commission were controlling springs
of his being, and to a more than usual degree. In
;ny judgmeni. there is no more interesting feature of
his character than his loyal allegiance to the body of
Christians in which he was trained, and the fervent
sympath)' which he ever showed in their Christian
communion. Not many of the few 'wise and mighty
and noble who are called' show a similar loyalty to
the less stately and cultured Christian communions
in which they have been reared. Too often it is true
that as they step upward in social and political sig-
nificance they step upward from one degree to
another in some of the many types of fashionable
Christianity. President Garfield adhered to the
church of his mother, the church in which he was
trained, and in which he served as a pillar and an
evangelist, and yet with the largest and most unsec-
tarian charity for all 'who loveour Lord in sincerity.'"

Mr. Garfield was united in marriage with Miss
Lucretia Rudolph, Nov. 1 1, 1858, who proved herself
worthy as the wife of one whom all the world loved and
mourned. To them were born seven children, five of
v/hom are still living, four boys and one girl.

Mr. Garfield made his first political speeches in 1856,
jn Hiram and the neighboring villages, and three
'/ears later he began to speak at county mass-meet-
ings, and became the favorite speaker wherever he
was. During this year he was elected to the Ohio
Senate. He also began to study law at Cleveland,
and in 1861 was admitted to the bar. The great
Rebellion broke out in the early part of t'nis year,
and Mr. Garfield at once resolved to fight as he had
talked, and enlisted to defend the old flag. He re-
ceived his commission as Lieut.-Colonel of the Forty-
second Regiment of Ohio Volunteer Infantry, Aug.
14, 1861. He was immediately put into active ser-
vice, and before he had ever seen a gun fired in action,
was placed in command of four regiments of infantry'
and eight companies of cavalry, charged with the
work of driving out of his native State the officer
'^Humphrey Marshall) reputed to be the ablest of
those, not educated to war whom Kentucky had given
to the Rebellion. This work was bravely and speed-
ily accomplished, although against great odds. Pres-
ident Lincoln, on his success commissioned him
Brigadier-General, Jan. 10, 1862; and as "he had
been the youngest man in the Ohio Senate two years
before, so now he was the youngest General in the
army." He was with Gen. Buell's army at Shiloh,
in its operations around Corinth and its march through
.Alabama. He was then detailed as a member of the
General Coutt-^Lartial for the trial of Gen. Fitz-John
Porter. He was then ordered to report to Gen. Rose-
crans, and was assigned to the "Chief of Staff."

The military l^story of Gen. Garfield dosed with

his brilliant services at Chickamauga, where he wor
the stars of the Major-General.

Without an efibrt on his part Ge» Garfield was
elected to Congress in the fall of 1S62 from the
Nineteenth District of Ohio. This section of Ohio
had been represented in Congress for si.xty years
mainly by two men — Elisha AVhittlesey and Joshua
R. Giddings. It was not without a struggle that he
resigned his place in the army. At the time he en-
tered Congress he was the youngest member in thai
body. Ther^; he remained by successive re-
elections until he was elected President in 1880.
Of his labors in Congress Senator Hoar says : " Since
the year 1864 you cannot think of a question whici.
has been debated in Congress, or discussed before sk
tribunel of the American people, in regard to whict
you will not find, if you wish instruction, the argu-
ment on one side stated, in almost every instance
better than by anybody else, in some speech made in
the House of Representatives or on the hustings by
Mr. Garfield."

Uix)n Jan. 14, 1880, Gen. Garfield was elected to
the U. S. Senate, and on the eighth of June, of the
same year, was nominated as the candidate of his
party for President at the great Chicago Convention.
He was elected in the following November, and on
March 4, 1881, was inaugurated. Probably no ad-
ministration ever opened its existence under brighter
auspices than that of President Garfield, and every
day it grew in favor with the people, and by the first
of July he had completed all the initiatory and pre-
liminary work of his administration and was prepar-
ing to leave the city to meet his friends at Williams
College. While on his way and at the depot, in com-
pany with Secretary Blaine, a man stepped behind
him, drew a revolver, and fired directly at his back.
The President tottered and fell, and as he did so the
assassin fired a second shot, the bullet cutting the
left coat sleeve of his victim, but in.licting no further
injury. It has been very truthfully said that this was
" the shot that was heard round the world " Never
before in the history of the Nation had anything oc-
curred which so nearly froze the blood of the peop?°
for tlie moment, as this awful deed. He was smit-
ten on the brightest, gladdest day of all his life, and
was at the summit of his ]X)wer and hope. For eighty
days, all during the hot months of July and August,
he lingered and suffered. He, however, remained
master of himself till the last, and by his magnificent
bearing was teaching the country and the world the
noblest of human lessons — how to live grandly in the
very clutch of death. Great in life, he was surpass-
ingly great in death. He passed serenely away Sept.
19, 1883, at Elberon, N. J, on the very bank of the
ocean, where he had been taken shortly previous. The
worid wept at his death, as it never had done on the
death of any other man who had ever lived upon it.
The murderer was duly tried, found guilty and exe-
cuted, in one year after he committed the fou; deed.

TWENTY.FIRST PRESIDENT.

HESTER A. ARTHUR,

^ twenty-first Presi'^.^ni. of the

United States, was born in

Franklin Cour ty, Vermont, on

thefifthofOdober, 1830, and is

the oldest of a family of two

sons and five daughters. His

father was the Rev. Dr. William

Arthur, a Baptist c''.,rgyman, who

emigrated to th.s country from

the county Ant am, Ireland, in

il his 1 8th year, and died in 1875, in

Newtonville, neai Albany, after a

long and successful ministry.

Young Arthur was educated at
Union College, S( henectady, where
he e.xcelled in all his studies. Af-
ter his graduation he taught school
f||||i in Vermont for two years, and at
ojlla the expiration cf that time came to
New York, with $500 in his pocket,
and entered the office of ex-Judge
^ E. D. Culver as student. After
I being admitted to the bar he formed
a partnership with liis intimate friend and room-mate,
Henry 0. Gardiner, with the intention of practicing
in the West, and for three months they roamed about
in the Western States in search of an eligible site,
but in the end returned to New York, where they
hung out their shingle, and entered upon a success-
ful career almost from the start. General Arthur
soon afterward nvur'^d the daughter of Lieutenant

Herndon, of the United States Navy, who was lost at
sea. Congress voted a gold medal to his widow in
recognition of tiie bravery he displayed on that occa-
sion. Mrs. Arthur died shortly before Mr. Arthurs
nomniation to the Vice Presidency, leaving two
children.

Gen. Arthur obtained considerable legal celebrity
in his first great case, the famous Lemmon suit,
brought to recover possession of eight slaves who had
been declared free by Judge Paine, of the Superior
Court of New York City. It was in 1852 that Jon-
athan Lemmon, of Virginia, went to New York with
his slaves, intending to ship them to Texas, when
they were discovered and freed. The Judge decided
that they could not be held by the owner under the
Fugitive Slave Law. A howl of rage went up from
the South, and the Virginia Legislature authorized tlio
Attorney General of that State to assist in an appeal.
Wm. M. Evarts and Chester A. Arthur were employed
to represent the People, and they won their case,
which then went to the Supreme Court of the United
States. Charles O'Conor here espoused the cause
of the slave-holders, but he too was beaten by Messrs
Evarts and Arthur, and a long step was taken toward
the emancipation of the black race.

Another great service was rendered by General
Arthur in the same cause in 1856. Lizzie Jennings,
a respectable colored woman, was put off a Fourth
Avenue car with violence after she had paid her fare.
General Arthur sued on her behalf, and secured a
verdict of $500 damages. The next day the compa-
ny issued an order to admit colored persons to ride
on their cars, and the other car companies quickly

CHESTER A. ARTHUR.

followed their example. Before that the Sixth Ave-
nue Company ran a few special cars for colored per-
sons and the other lines refused to let them ride at all.

General Arthur was a delegate to the Convention
at Saratoga that founded the Republican party.
Previous to the war he was Judge-Advocate of the
Second Brigade of the State of New York, and Gov-
ernor Morgan, of that State, appointed hmi Engineer-
in-Chief of his staff. In 1861, he was made Inspec-
tor General, and soon afterward became Quartermas-
ter-General. In each of these offices he rendered
great service to the Government during the war. At
the end of Governor Morgan's term he resumed the
practice of the law, forming a partnership with Mr.
Ransom, and then Mr. Phelps, the District Attorney
of New Yoik, was added to the firm. The legal prac-
tice of this well-known firm was very large and lucra-
tive, each of the gentlemen composing it were able
lawyers, and possessed a splendid local reputation, if
not indeed one of national extent.

He always took a leading part in State and city
jiolitics. He was appointed Collector of the Port of
New York by President Grant, Nov. 21 1872, to suc-
ceed Thomas Murphy, and held the office until July,
?o, 1878, when he was succeeded by Collector Merritt.

Mr. Arthur was nominated on the Presidential
ticket, with Gen. James A. Garfield, at the famous
National Republican Convention held at Chicago in
June, 1880. This was perhaps the greatest political
convention that ever assembled on the continent. It
was composed of the 'fading politicians of the Re-
publican party, all able men, and each stood firm and
fought vigorously and with signal tenacity for tlieir
respective candidates that were before the conven-
tion for the nomination. Finally Gen. Garfield re-
ceived the nomination for President and Gen. Arthur
for Vice-President. The campaign which followed
was one of the most animated known in the history of
our country. Gen. Hancock, the standard-bearer of
the Democratic party, was a popular man, and his
party made a valiant fight for his election.

Finally the election came and the country's choice
.vas Garfield and Arthur. They were inaugurated
March 4, 1881, as President and Vice-President.
A few months only had passed ere the newly chosen
President was the victim of the assassin's bullet. Then
came terrible weeks of suffering, — thosf momenta of
anxious suspense, wher the hearts of all civilized na-

tions were throbbing in unison, longing for the re-
covery of the noble, the good President. The remark-
able patience that he manifested during those hours
and weeks, and even months, of the most terrible suf-
fering man has often been called upon to endure, was
seemingly more than human. It was certainly God-
like. During all this period of deepest anxiety Mr,
Arthur's every move was watched, and be it said to his
credit that his every action displayed only an earnest
desire that the suffering Garfield might recover, to
serve the remainder of the term he had so auspi-
ciously begun. Not a selfish feeling was manifested
in deed or look of this man, even though the most
honored position in the world was at any moment
likely to fall to him.

At last God in his mercy relieved President Gar-
field from further suffering, and the world, as never
before in its history over the death of any other
man, wept at his bier. Then it became the duty of
the Vice President to assume the responsibilities of
the high office, and he took the oath in New York.
Sept. 20, 1881. The position was an embarrassing
one to him, made doubly so from the facts that all
eyes were on him, anxious to know what he would do,
what policy he would pursue, and who he would se-
lect as advisers. The duties of the office had been
greatly neglected during the President's long illness,
and many important measures were to be immediately
decided by him ; and still farther to embarrass him he
did not fail to realize under what circumstances he
became President, and knew the feelings of many on
this point. Under these trying circumstances President
Arthur took the reins of the Government in his own
hands ; and, as embarrassing as were the condition of
affairs, he happily surprised the nation, acting so
wisely that but few criticised his administration.
He served the nation well and faithfully, until the
close of his administration, March 4, 1S85, and was
a popular candidate before his party for a second
term. His name was ably presented before the con-
vention at Chicago, and was received with great
favor, and doubtless but for the personal popularity
of one of the opposing candidates, he would have
been selected as the standard-bearer of his party
for another campaign. He retired to private life car-
rjing with him the best wishes of the .American peo-
ple, whom he had served in a manner satisfactory
to them and with credit to himself.

y^i^trL^-

Oyt^x^i

TWENTY-SECONn PRESIDENT.

>o3

^^-^x:^^^

^M^

OOP .

' ooo

TEPHEN GROVER CLEVE-
LAND, the twenty- second Pres-
ident of the United States, was
born in 1S37, in the obscure
town of Caldwell, Essex Co.,
N. J., and in a little two-and-a-
half-story white house which is still
standing, characteristically to mark
the humble birth-place of one of
America's great men in striking con-
trast with the Old World, where all
men high in office must be high in
origin and born in the cradle of
wealth. When the subject of this
sketch was three years of age, his
father, who was a Presbyterian min-
ister, with a large family and a small salary, moved,
by way cf the Hudson River and Erie Canal, to
Fayetteville, in search of an increased income and a
larger field of work. Fayetteville was then the most
straggling of country villages, about five miles from
Pompey Hill, where Governor Seymour was born.

At the last mentioned place young Grover com-
menced going to school in the "good, old-fashioned
way," and presumably distinguished himself after the
manner of all village boys, in doing the things he
ought not to do. Such is the distinguishing trait of
all geniuses and independent thinkers. When he
arrived at the age of 14 years, he had outgrown the
capacity of the village school and expressed a most

emphatic desire to be sent to an academy. To this
his father decidedly objected. Academies in those
days cost money; besides, his father wanted him to
become self-supporting by the quickest possible
means, and this at that time in Fayette'/ille seemed
to be a position in a country store, where his father
and the large family on his hands had considerable
influence. Grover was to be paid $.50 for his services
the first year, and if he proved trustworthy he was to
receive $100 the second year. Here the lad com-
menced his career as salesman, and in two years he
had earned so good a reputation for trustworthiness
that his employers desired to retain him for an in
definite length of time. Otherwise he did not e.\-
hibit as yet any particular " flashes of genius " or
eccentricities of talent. He was simply a good boy.
Bat instead of remaining with this firm in Fayette-
ville, he went with the family in their removal lo
Clinton, where he had an opportunity of attending a
high school. Here he industriously pursued his
studies until the family removed with him to a point
on Black River known as the " Holland Patent," a
village of 500 or 600 people, 15 miles north of Utica,
N. Y. At this place his father died, after preaching
but three Sundays. This event broke up the family,
and Grover set out for New York City to accept, at a
small salary, the position of " under-teacher " in a 1
asylum for the blind. He taught faithfully for twcj
years, and although he obtained a good reputation ir
this capacity, he concluded that teaching was not hii

I04

S. GROVER CLEVELAND.

calling for life, and, reversing the traditional order,
he left the city to seek his fortune, instead of going
to a city. Hi first thought of Cleveland, Ohio, as
there was some charm in that name for him; but
before proceeding to that place he went to Buffalo to
»sk the advice of his uncle, Lewis F. Allan, a noted
stock-breeder of that place. The latter did not
speak enthusiastically. " What is it you want to do,
my boy?" he asked. "Well, sir, I want to study
law," was the reply. -' Good gracious ! " remarked
ihe old gentleman ; " do you, indeed .' What ever put
Ihat into your head? How nuich money have you
got?" •Well, sir, to tell the truth, I haven't got

After a long consultation, his uncle offered him a
place tempDiarily as assistant herd- keeper, at $50 a
year, wiifle he could " look around." One day soon
afterward he boldly walked into the office of Rogers,
Bovven & Rogers, of Buffalo, and told them what he
wanted. A number of young men were already en-
gaged in the office, but Grover's persistency won, and
ne was finally permitted to come as an office boy and
aave the use of the law library, for the nominal sum
of $3 or §1 a week. Out of this he had to pay for
his board and washing. The walk to and from his
uncle's was a Ion" and rugged one; and, although
the first winter was a memorably severe one, his
shoes were out of repair and his overcoat — he had
Bone — yet he was nevertheless prompt and regular.
On the first day of his service here, his senior em-
ployer threw down a copy of Blackstone before him
with a bang that made the dust fly, saying "That's
where they all begin." A titter ran around the little
circle of clerks and students, as they thought that
was enough to scare young Grover out of his plans ;
Dut in due time he mastered that cumbersome volume.
Then, as ever afterward, however, Mr. Cleveland
exhibited a talent for e.Kecutiveness rather than for
chasing principles through all their metaphysical
possibilities. " Let us quit talking and go and do
t," was practically liis motto.

The first public office to which Mr. Cleveland was
eiected was that of Sheriff of Erie Co., N. Y., in
which Buffalo is situated; and in such capacity it fell
to his duty to inflict capital punishment upon two
criminals. In iSSi he was elected Mayor of the
City of Buffalo, on the Democratic ticket, with es-
pecial reference to the bringing about certain reforms

in the administration of the municipal affairs of that
city. In this office, as well as that of Sheriff, his
performance of duty has generally been considered
fair, with possibly a few exceptions which were fer-
reted out and magnified during the last Presidential
campaign. As a specimen of his plain language in
a veto message, we quote from one vetoing an iniaui-
tous street-cleaning contract: "This is a time foi
plain speech, and my objection to your action shall
be plainly stated. I regard it as the culmination of
a mos bare-faced, impudent and shameless scheme
to betray the interests of the peopls and to worse
than squander the people's money." The New York
Sun afterward very highly commended Mr. Cleve-
land's administration as Mayor of Buffalo, and there-
upon recommended him for Governor of the Empire
State. To the latter office he was elected in 1882,
and his administration of the affairs of State was
generally satisfactory. The mistakes he made, if
any, were made very public throughout the nation
after he was nominated for President of the United
States. For this high office he was nominated July
ir, 1884, by the National Democratic Convention at
Chicago, when other competitors were Thomas F.
Bayard, Roswell P. Flower, Thomas A. Hendricks,
Benjamin F. Butler, Allen G. Thurman, etc.: and he
was elected by the people, by a majority of about a
thousand, over the brilliant and long-tried Repub-
lican statesman, James G. Blaine. President Cleve-
land resigned his office as Governor of New York in
January, 1885, in order to prepare for his duties as
the Chief Executive of the United States, in which
capacity his term commenced at noon on the 4th of
March, 1885. For his Cabinet officers he selected
the following gentlemen: For Secretary of State,
Thomas F. Bayard, of Delaware ; Secretary of the
Treasury, Daniel Manning, of New York ; Secretary
of War, William C. Endicott, of Massachusetts ;
Secretary of the Navy, William C. Whitney, of New
York; Secretary of the Interior, L. Q. C. Lamar, of
Mississippi; Postmaster-General, William F. Vilas,
of Wisconsin ; Attorney-General, A. H. Garland, of
Arkansas.

The silver question precipitated a controversy be-
tween those who were in favor of the continuance of
silver coinage and those who were opposed, Mr.
Cleveland answering for the latter, even before his
inauguration.

m^z^c^y. 1.

V^:>

TWENTY-THIRD TREv^^lDENT.

Ill"

'^-.

-4?> <^

vi^'sq^^i^iaSii

.-J^!^

U'-- • , <

m ^^. u,j^i?isona

'^'^^^TllS-

liEXJAMIN IIAKRISOX", the
I \ , twenty-third I'resident, is
■ -^ the descendant of one of the
historical families of this
_- country. The head of the
family was a Major General
Harrison, one of Oliver
Cromwell's trusted follow-
ers and fighters. In the zenith of Crom-
well's iwwer it became the duty of this
Harrison to jxarticijiate in the tri.il of
Charles I. and afterward to sign the
death warrant of the king. He subse-
quently paid for this with his life, being
hung Oct. 13, 1600. His descendants
came to America, and the next of the
family that appears in history is Benja-
min Harrison, of Virginia, great-grand-
father of the subject of this sketch, and
after whom he was named. Benjamin Harrison
was a member of the Continental Congress during
the years ^774-5-6. and was one of the original
Eigners of the Declaration of Independence. He
was three times elected Governor of Virginia.
Gsn William Henry Harrison, the son of the

dlslingmshcd patriot of the Revolution, after a suc-
cessful career as a soldier during tlie War of 1812,
and with -a cle.an record as Governor of the North-
western Territor3-, was elected President of the
United States in 1S40. His career was cut short
by death within one month :;fter his inauguratioiv
President Harrison was born at Nor'Ji Bend,
Hamilton Co., Ohio, Aug. rlO, 1833, His life up to
the time of his graduation b^' the Miami University
at Oxford, Ohio, was the uneventful one of a coun-
trj- lad of a faniil}' of small means. His father was
able to give him a good education, and nothing
more. He became engaged while at college to tii2
daughter of Dr. Scott, Principal of a female school
at Oxford. After gr.iduatiug he determined to en-
ter upon the studj' of the law. He went to Cin
cinnati and then read law for two years. At tht
expiration of that time young Harrison receiviAl tt'
onlj' inheritance of his life; his aunt dying left him
a lot valued at $800. He regarded this legacy as a
fortune, and decided to get married at once, take
this mone}' and go to some Eastern town an '. be-
gin the practice of law. He sold his lot, and with
the money in bis pocket, he started out witii his
young wife to fight for a place 'n the world. Z'-e

lOi^

isEIS.iAMJN HARRISON.

decided to go to ladianapolis, which was even at
that time a towu of promise. He met with slight
t'licouragement at first, making scarcely auj'thing
the first j-ear. He worked diligently, applying him-
self closely to his calling, built up an extensive
practice and took a leading rank in the legal pro-
fession. He is the father of two children.

la 1860 Mr. Harrison was nominated for the
position of Supreme Court Eeporter, and tlien be-
gan his experience as a stump speake: He can-
vassed the State thoroughh', and was elected by a
handsome majority. In 18G2 he raised the 17th
Indiana Infantrj-, ami was chosen its Colonel. His
regiment was composed of the rawest of material,
out Col. Harrison emploj-ed all his time at first
mastering military tactics and drilling his men,
when he therefore came to move toward the East
with Sherman his regiment was one of the best
firilled and organized in the army. At Resaca he
especially distinguished himself, and for his braver}'
r.t Peachtree Creek he was made a Brigadier Gen-
eral, Gen. Hooker speaking of him in the most
eoraplimentarj' terms.

During the absence of Gen. Harrison in tiie field
he Supreme Court declared the office of tiie Su-
preme Court Reporter vacant, and another person
was elected to the position. From the time of leav-
irg Indiana with his regiment until the fall of 1864
he had takenno leave of absence, but having been
nominated that year for the same office, he got a
thirtj'-day leave of absence, and during that time
made a brilliant canvass of the St^te, and was elected
for another terra. He then started to rejoin Sher-
ican, but on the way was stricken down with scarlet
_ever, and after a most tr^'ing siege made his way
to the front in time to participate in the closing
incidents of the war.

In 1868 Gen. Harrison declined c, re-election as
.reporter, and resumed the practice of law. In 1876
£6 was a candidate for Governor. Although de-
eated, the brilliant campaign he made won for him
a National reputation, and he was much sought, es-
pecia'-.j? in the East, to make speeches. Iii 1880,
iis usua!, he took an active part in the campaign,
iiid w:i elected to the United States Senate. Here
lie served six years, anr v/as known as one of the
ablest men, best lawyer-- ..nd strongest debaters in

that body. "With the expiration of his Senatorial
term he returned to the practice of his profession,
becoming the head of one of the strongest firms in
the State.

The political campaign of 1888 was one of the
most memorable in the history of our countrj-. The
convention which assembled in Chicago in June and
named Mr. Harrison as the chief standard bearer
of the Republican party, was great in every partic-
ular, and on this .account, and the attitude it as-
sumed ujion the vital questions of the day, chief
among which was the tariff, awoke a deep interest
in the campaign throughout the Nation. Shortl}-
after the nomination delegations began to visit Mr.
Harrison at Indianapolis, his home. This move-
ment became popular, and from all sections of the
country societies, clubs and delegations journej'ed
thither to pay their respects to the distinguished
statesman. The popularity of these was greatly
increased on account of the remarkable speeches
made by Mr. Harrison. He spoke dail^' all through
the summer and autumn to these visiting delcg.a-
tious, and so varied, masterly and eloquent were
his speeches that they at once placed him in the
foremost rank of American orators and statesmen.

On account of his eloquence as a speaker and his
power as a debater, he was called iipon at an un-
commonly early age to take part in the discussion
of the great questions that then began to agitate
the countrj^. He was an uncompromising anti
slaverv man, and was matched against some of ll:e
most eminent Democratic speakers of his State.
No man who felt the touch of his blade desired to
be pitted with him again. "With all his eloq-'ence
as an orator he never spoke for oratorical effect.
but his words always went like bullets to the mark
He is purely American in his ideas and is a spier
did type of the American statesman. Gifted will^
quick perception, a logical mind and a ready tongue,
he is one of the most distinguished impromptu
speakers in the Nation. Mauj- of these speeches
sparkled with the rarest of eloquence and contained
arguments of greatest weight. Many of his terse
statements have already- become aphorisms. Origi-
nal in thought, precise in logic, terse in statement,
yet witlial faultless in eloquence, he is recognized as
the sound statesman and briJi'nn' orator c-^ the day

-^aA- ^ 4

(^fe^

c<F

■JO .-s»„

^:^i'i^C^-i^c^cyA^

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

HADRACH BOND, the first
Governor of Illinois after its
organization bs a State, serving
from i8 1 8 to 1822, was born in
Frederick County, Maryland,
in tlie year 1773, and was
raised a farmer on his father's
plantation, receiving only a plain
English education. He emigrated
to this State in 1794, when it was a
part of the "Northwest Territory,"
continuing in the vocation in which
he had been brought up in his native
State, in the "New Design," near
Eagle Creek, in what is now Monroe
County. He served several terms as
a member of the General Assembly
of Indiana Territory, after it was organized as such,
and in 1812-14 he was a Delegate to the Twelftli
and Thirteenth Congresses, taking his seat Dec. 3,
i8i2, and serving until Oct. 3, 1814. These were
the times, the reader will recollect, when this Gov-
ernment had its last struggle with Great Britain,
The year 1812 is also noted in the liistory of this
State as that in which the first Territorial Legislature
was held. It convened at Kaskaskia, Nov. 25, and
adjourned Dec. 26, following.

While serving as Delegate to Congress, Mr. Bond
was instrumental in procuring the right of pre-eniji-
t'on on the public domain. On the expiration of his
term at Washington he was appointed Receiver of
Public Moneys at Kaskaskia, then the capital of ilie
Territory. In company with John G. Comyges,

Thomas H. Harris, Charles Slade, Michael Jones,
Warren Brown, Edward Humphries and Charles W
Hunter, he became a proprietor of the site of the
initial city of Cairo, which they hoped, from its favor-
able location at the junction of the two greai
rivers near the center ,of the Great West, would
rapidly develop into a metropolis. To aid the enter-
prise, they obtained a special charter from the Legis-
lature, incorporating both the City and the Bank of
Cairo.

In 1818 Mr. Bond was elected the first Governor
of the State of Illinois, being inaugurated Oct. 6
that year, which was several weeks before Illinois
was actually admitted. The facts are these: In
January, 181S, the Territorial Legislature sent a peti-
tion to Congress for the admission of Illinois as a
State, Nathaniel Pope being then Delegate. The
petition was granted, fixing the northern line of the
State on the lautude of the southern extremity of
Lake Michigan; but the bill was afterward so amend-
ed as to extend this line to its present latitude. In
July a convention was called at Kaskaskia to draft a
constitution, which, however, was not submitted to
the people. By its provisions, supreme judges, pros
ecuting attorneys, county and circuit judges, record-
ers and justices of the peace were all to be appointed
by the Governor or elected by the Legislature. This
constitution was accepted by Congress Dec. 30. At
that rime Illinois comprised but eleven counties,
namely, Randolph, Madison, Gallatin, Johnson,
Pope, Jackson, Crawford, Bond, Union, Washington
and Franklin, the northern jjortion of the State be-
ing mainly in Madison County. Thus it appears
that Mr. Bond was honored by the naming of a

SHADRACH BOND.

county before he was elected Goveracr. The present
county of Bond is of small limitations, about 60 to 80
miles south of Springfield. For Lieutenant Governor
the oeople chose Pierre Menard, a prominent and
worthy Frenchman, after whom a county in this State
is named. In this election there were no opposition
candidates, as the popularity of these men had made
their promotion to the chief offices of the Siate, even
before tlie constitution was drafted, a foregone con-
clusion.

The principal points that excited the people in
reference to political issues at this period were local
or "internal improvements," as they were called,
State banks, location of the capital, slavery and the
personal characteristics of the proposed candidates.
Mr. Bond represented the " Convention party," for
introducing slavery into the State, supported by Elias
Ke It Kane, liis Secretary of State, and John Mc-
Lean, while Nathaniel Pope and John P. Cook led
the anti-slavery element. The people, however, did
not become very much excited over this issue until
1820, whan thi f minis Missouri Compromise was
adopted by Congress, limiting slavery to the south
of the parallel of 36° 30' except in Missouri. While
this measure settled the great slavery controversy,
so far as the average public sentiment was tempor-
arily concerned, until 1854, when it was repealed
under the le idersliip of Stephen A. Douglas, the issue
as considered locally in this State was not decided
until 1824, after a most furious campaign. (.See
sketch of Gov. Coles.) The ticket of 1818 was a
compromise one. Bond representing (moderately) the
pro-slavery sentiment and Menard the anti-slavery.

An awkward element in the State government
under Gov. Bond's administration, was the imperfec-
tion of the State constitution. The Convention
wished to have Elijah C. Berry for the fiist Auditor
of Public Accounts, but, as it was believed that the
new Governor would not appoint him to the office,
the Convention declared in a schedule that " an
auditor of public accounts, an attorney general and
such other officers of the State as may be necessary,
may be apix)inted by the General Assembly." The
Constitution, as it stood, vested a very large appoint-
ing power in the Governor ; but for the purpose of
getting one man into office, a total change was made,
and the jxiwer vested in the Legislature. Of this
provision the Legislature took advantage, and de-

clared that State's attorneys, canal commissioners,
bank directors, etc., were all '" officers of the State "
and must therefore be appointed by itself independ-
ently of the Governor.

During Gov. Bond's administration a general law
was passed for the incorporation of academies and
towns, and one authorizing lotteries. The session of
1822 authorized the Governor to appoint commis-
sioners, to act in conjunction with like commissioners
appointed by the State of Indiana, to report on the
practicability and expediency of improving the navi-
gation of the Wabash River; also inland navigation
generally. Many improvements were recommended,
some of which have been feebly worked at even till
the present day, those along the Wabash being of no
value. Also, during Gov. Bond's term of office, the
capital of the State was removed from Kaskaskia to
Vandalia. In 1820 a law was passed by Congress
authorizing this State to open a canal through the
public lands. The State appointed commissioners
10 explore the route and prepare the necessary sur-
veys and estimates, preparatory to its execution;
but, being unable out of its own resources to defray
the expenses of the undertaking, it was abandoned
until some time after Congress made the grant of
land for the purpose of its construction.

On the wliole. Gov. Bond's administration was
fairly good, not being open to severe criticism from
any party. In 1S24, two years after the expiration
of his term of office, he was brought out as a candi-
date for Congress against the formidable John P.
Cook, but received only 4,374 votes to 7,460 for the
latter. Gov. Bond was no orator, but had made
many fast friends by a judicious bestowment of his
gubernatorial patronage, and these worked zealously
for him in the campaign.

In 1827 ex-Gov. Bond was appointed by the Leg-
islature, with Wm. P. McKee and Dr. Gershom
Jayne, as Commissioners to locate a site for a peni-
tentiary on the Mississippi at or near Alton.

Mr. Bond was of a benevolent and convivial dis-
[Xjsition, a man of shrewd observation and clear ap-
preciation of events. His person was erect, stand-
ing six feet in height, and after middle life becaine
ix)rtly, weighing 200 pounds. His features were
strongly masculine, complexion dark, hair jet and
eyes hazel ; was a favorite with the ladies. He died
April 1 1, 1830, in peace and contentment.

Ld^^<U^ Co^U^

GO VERNORS OF JLLIA'OJS.

]££)\var5 Coles.

W-'V^^-'^

"^W

5><s!;-<«iW®>'fe

DWARD COLES, second
Governor of Illinois, 1823-
. 6, was born Dec. 15, 1786,
in Albemarle Co., Va., on
the old family estate called
" Enniscorthy," o n the
Creen Mountain. His fath-
er, John Coles, was a Colonel in the
Revolutionary War. Having been fit-
ted for college by private tutors, he
was sent to Hampden Sidney, where
he remained until the autumn of 1805,
when he was removed to William and
Mary College, at Williamsburg, Va.
Tliis college he left in the summer of
1807, a short time before the final and graduating
exa'iii lation. Among his classmates were Lieut.
Gen. Scott, President John Tyler, Wni. S. Archer,
United States Senator from Virginia, and Justice
B.ildwin, of the United States Supreme Court. Tl-.e
President of the latter college, Bishop Madison, was
a cousin of President James Madison, and that cir-
cumstance was the occasion of Mr. Coles becoming
personally acquainted with the President and re-
ceiving a position as his private secretary, 1809-15.
The family of Coles was a proininent one in Vir-
ginia, and their mansion was the seat of the old-
fashioned Virginian hospitality. It was visited by
such rotables as Patrick Henry, Jefferson, Madison,
Monroe, the Randolphs, Tazewell, Wirt, etc. At the
age of 23, young Coles found himself heir to a plant-
ation and a considerable num'ier of slaves. Ever
since his earlier college days his attention had been
drawn to tlie questioi of slavery. He read every-

thing on the subject that came in his vvay, and
listened to lectures on the rights of man. The more
lie reflected upon the subject, the more impossible
was it for him to reconcile the immortal declaration
"that all men are born free and equal " with the
practice of slave-holding. He resolved, therefore, to
free his slaves the first opportunity, and even remove
his residence to a free State. One reason which de-
termined him to accept the appointment as private
secretary to Mr. M idison was because he believed
that through the acquaintances he could make at
Washington he could better determine in what part
of tire non-slaveho'ding portion of the Union he would
prefer to settle.

The relations between Mr. Coles and President
Madison, as well as Jefferson and other distinguished
men, were of a very friendly character, arising from
the similarity of their views on the question of slavery
and their sympathy for each other in holding doc-
trines so much at variance with the prevailing senti-
ment in their own State.

In 1857, he resigned his secretaryship and spent a
portion of the following autumn in exploring the
Northwest Territory, for the purpose of finding a lo-
cation and purchasing lands on which to settle his
negroes. He traveled with a horse and buggy, with
an extra man and horse for emergencies, through
many parts of Ohio, Indiana, Illinois and Missouri,
determining finally to settle in Illinois. At this time,
however, a misunderstanding arose between our
Government and Russia, and Mr. Coles was selected
to repair to St. Petersburg on a special mission, bear-
ing important papers concerning the matter at issue
The result was a conviction of the Emperor (Alex-

ii6

EDWARD COLES.

ander) of the error committed by his minister at
\\\isliington, and the consequent withdrawal of the
the latter from the post. On his return, Mr. Coles
visited olher parts of E,urope, especially Paris, where
he was introduced to Gen. Lafayette.

Ill the spring of 1819, he removed with all his
negroes from Virginia to Edwardsville, 111., with the
intention of giving them their liberty. He did not
make known to ihem iiis intention until one beautiful
morning in .A-pril, as they were descending the Ohio
River. He lashed all tiie boats together and called
all the negroes on deck and made them a short ad-
dress, concluding his remarks by so expressing him-
self that by a turn of a sentence he proclaimed in
the shortest and fullest manner that they were no
longer slaves, but free as he was and were at liberty
to proceed with him or go ashojre at their pleas-
ure. A desorijjtion of the effect upon the negroes is
best described in his own language :

"The effect upon them was electrical. They stared
at nr.e and then at each other, as if doubting, the ac-
curacy or reality of wliat they heard. In breathless
silence they stood before me, unable to utter a word,
Init with countenances beaming with e.xpression which
no words could convey, and which no language
can describe. As they began to see the truth of
what they had heard, and realize their situation, there
came on a kind of hysterical, giggling laugh. After
a pause of intense and unutterable emotion, bathed
in tears, and with tremulous voices, they gave vent to
their gratitude and implored the blessing of God
o;i me."

Before landing he gave them a general certificate
of freedom, and afterward conformed more particu-
lariy with tiie law of this State requiring that each
individual should have a certificate. This act of
Mr. Coles, all the more noble and heroic considering
the overwhelming pro-slavery influences surrounding
him, has challenged the admiration of every philan-
thropist of modern times.

March 5, 1819, President Monroe appointed Mr.
Coles Registrar of the Land Office at EdwardsviLe,
at that time one of the principal land offices in the
State. While acting in this capacity and gaining
many friends by his [wliteness and general intelli-
gence, the greatest struggle tliat ever occurred in
Illinois on tlie slavery quesiion culminated in the
furious contest characterizing the campaigns and
elections of 1822-4. In the summer of 1823, when a
new Governor was to be elected to succeed Mr.
Bond, the pro-slavery element divided into factions,
iiuiting forward for the executive office Joseph
Phillips, Chief Justice of the State, Thomas C.
ISrowne and Gen. James B. Moore, of the State Mil-
itia. The anti-slavery element united upon Mr.
Coles, and, after one of the most bitter campaigns,
succeeded in electing him as (Governor. His plural-
ity over Judge Phillips was only 59 in a total vote of

over 8,000. The Lieutenant Governor was elected
by the slavery men. Mr. Coles' inauguration speech
was marked by calmness, deliberation and such a
wise expression of appropriate suggestions as to
elicit the sanction of all judicious politicians. But
he compromised not with evil. In his message to
the Legislature, the seat of Government being then
at Vandalia, he strongly urged the abrogation of the
modified form of slavery which then existed in this
State, contrary to the Ordinance of 1787. His posi-
tion on this subject seems the more remarkable, when
it is considered that he was a minority Governor, the
population of Illinois being at that time almost ex-
clusively from slave-holding States and by a large
majority in favor of the perpetuation of that old relic
of barbarism. The Legislature itself was, of course,
a reflex of the popular sentiment, and a majority of
them were led on by fiery men in denunciations of
the conscientious Governor, and in curses loud and
deep upon him and all his friends. Some of the
public men, indeed, went so far as to head a sort of
mob, or " shiveree " party, who visited the residence
of the Governor and others at Vandalia and yeiled
and groaned and spat fire.

The Constitution, not establishing or [lermitting
slavery in this State, was thought therefore to be
defective by the slavery politicians, and they desired
a State Convention to be elected, to devise and sub-
mit a new Constitution; and the dominant politics
of the day was "Convention" and "anti-Conven-
tion." Both parties issued addresses to the people.
Gov. Coles himself being the author of the address
published by the latter party. This address revealed
the schemes of the conspirators in a masterly man-
ner. It is difficult for us at this distant day to esti-
mate the critical and extremely delicate situation in
which the Governor was placed at that time.

Our hero maintained himself honorably and with
supreme dignity throughout his administration, and
in his honor a county in this State is named. He
was truly a great man, and those who lived in
this State during his sojourn here, like those who
live at the base of the mountain, were too near to see
and recognize the greatness that overshadowed them.

Mr. Coles was married Nov. 28, 1833, by Bishop
De Lancey, to Miss Sally Logan Roberts, a daughter
of Hugh Roberts, a descendant of Welsh ancestrv ,
whocamito this country with Wm. Penn in 1682.

After the expiration of his term of service, Gov.
Coles continued his residence in Edwardsville, sup-
erintending his farm in the vicinity. He was fond
of agriculture, and was the founder of the first agri-
cultural society in the State. On account of ill
health, however, aid having no family to tie him
down, he spent much of his time in Eastern cities.
About 1832 he changed his residence to Philadel-
phia, where he died July 7, 1S68, and is buried at
Woodland, near that city.

' c^ c^-(^(ysi^^

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

tar-

Us.'-? .•?^l

CI wail CI, Si

••<-^-^<-y^-^>-5-

. 'i
)

INIAN EDWARDS, Governor

! from 1827 to 1830, was a son
V- of Benjamin Edwards, and
' was born in Montgomery
n County, Maryland, in March,
.^ 1775- His domestic train-
'^ ^' ing was well fitted to give
his mind strength, firmness and
I'.o; orable principles, and a good
foundation was laid for the elevated
character to which he afterwards
attained. His parents were Bap-
tists, and very strict in their moral
piinciples. His education in early
youtli was in company with and
partly under the tuition of Hon.\Vni.
Wirt, whom his father natronizcd
and who was more than two years
older. An intimacy was thus
foriiiid between them which was lasting for life. He
was further educated at Dickinson College, at Car
lisle, Pa. He next commenced the study of law, but
before completing his course he moved to Nelson
County, Ky., to open a farm for his father and to
purchase homes and locate lands for his brothers and
sisters. Here he fell in the company of dissolute
companions, and for several years led the life of a
spendthrift. He was, however, elected to the Legis-
lature of Kentucky as the Representative of Nelson
i.'ounty before he was 21 years of age, and was re-
elected by an almost unanimous vote.

In 1798 he was licensed to practice law, and the
following year was admitted to the Courts of Tennes-
see. About this time he left Nelson County for
Russellville, in Logan County, broke away from his
dissolute companions, commenced a reformation and
devoted himself to severe and laborious study. He
then began to rise rapidly in his profession, and soon
becanre an enrinent lawyer, and inside of four years
he filled iu succession the offices of Presiding Judge
of the General Court, Circuit Judge, fourth Judge of
the Court of Appeals and Chief Justice of tlie State,
— all before he was 32 years of age! In addition, 'in
1802, he received a commission as Major of a battal-
ion of Kentucky militia, and in 1804 was chosen a
Presidential Elector, on tlie Jefferson and Clinton
ticket. Lr 1806 he was a candidate for Congress,
but withdrew on being promoted to the Court of
Appeals.

Illinois was organized as a separate Territory in
the spring of iSog, when Mr. Edwards, then Chief
Justice of the Court of Appeals in Kentucky, received
from President Madison the appointment as Gover-
nor of the new Territory, his commission bearing date
.^pril 24, T809. Edwards arrived at Kaskaskia in
June, and on the r rth of that montli took the oath of
office, hx. the same time he was appointed Sui)erin-
tendent of the United States Saline, this Government
interest then developing into considerable proportions
in Southern Illinois. Although during the first three
years of his administration he had the power to make
new counties and appoint all the officers, yet he always
allowed the people of each county, by an informal

NINIAN EDWARDS.

vole, to select Iheir own officers, both civil and mili-
tary. The noted John J. Crittenden, afterward
United States Senator from Kentucky, was appointed
by Gev. Edwards to the office of Attorney General of
the Territory, which office was accepted for a short
time only.

The Indians in 1810 committing sundry depreda-
tions in the Territory, crossing the Mississippi from
the Territory of Louisiana, a long correspondence fol-
lowed between the respective Governors concerning
the remedies, which ended in a council with the sav-
ages at Peoria in 181 2; and a fresh interpretation of
the treaties. Peoria was depopulated by these de-
predations, and was not re-settled for many ve.irs
afterward.

As Gov. Edwards' term of office expired by law in
181 2, he was re-appointed for another term of three
years, and again in 1815 for a third term, serving
until the organization of the State in the fall of 1818
and the inauguration of Gov. Bond. At this time
e.x-Gov. Edwards was sent to the United States
Senate, his colleague being Jesse B. Thomas. As
Senator, Mr. Edwards took a conspicuous part, and
acquitted himself honorably in all the measures that
came up in that body, being well posted, an .^.ble de-
L)ater and a conscientious statesman. He thought
. eriously of resigning this situation in 182 1, but was
Dcrsuaded by his old friend, Wm. Wirt, and others to
. ontltiue in office, which he did to the end of the
term.

He was then appointed Minister to Mexico by
President Monroe. About this time, it appears that
Mr. Edwards saw suspicious signs in the conduct of
Wm. H. Crawford, Secretary of the United States
Treasury, a,id an ambitious candidate for the Presi-
dency, and being implicated by the latter in some of
his statements, he resigned his Mexican mission in
'.rder fully to investigate the charges. The result
was the excuI|)ation of Mr. Edwards.

Pro-slavery regulations, often termed "Black Laws,"
disgraced the statute books of both the Territory and
'he State of Illinois during the whole of his career in
.his connnonwealth, and Mr. Edwards always main-
tained the doctrines of freedom, and was an important
r.ctor in the great struggle which ended in a victory
for his parfy in 1824.

In 1826-7 the Winnebago and other Indians com-
mitted soue depredations in the northern part of tiie

State, and the white settlers, who desired the lands
and wished to exasperate the savages into an evacu-
ation of the country, magnified the misdemeanors of
the aborigines and thereby produced a hostility be-
tween the races so great as to precipitate a little war,
known in history as the "Winnebago Wnr." A few
chases and skirmishes were had, when Gen. Atkinson
succeeded in capturing Red Bird, the Indian chief,
and putting him to death, thus ending the contest, at
least until the troubles commenced which ended in
the " Black Hawk War " of 1832. In the interpre-
tation of treaties and execution of their provisions
Gov. Edwards had much vexatious work to do. The
Indians kept themselves generally within the juris-
diction of Michigan Territory, and its Governor,
Lewis Cass, was at a point so remote that ready cor-
respondence with him was difficult or impossible.
Gov. Edwards' administration, however, in regard to
the protection of the Illinois frontier, seems to have
been very efficient and satisfactory.

For a considerable portion of his time after his re-
moval to Illinois, Gov. Edwards resided upon his
farm near Kaskaskia, which he had well stocked with
horses, cattle and sheep from Kentucky, also with
fruit-trees, grape-vines and shrubbery. He estab-
lished saw and grist-mills, and engaged extensively
in mercantile business, having no less than eight orten
stores in this State and Missouri. Notwithstanding
the arduous duties of his office, he nearly aUvays pur-
chased the goods himself with which to supply the
stores. Although not a regular practitioner of medi-
cine, he studied the healing art to a considerable ex-
tent, and took great pleasure in prescribing for, and
taking care of, the sick, generally without charge.
He w',s also liberal to tlie i)oor, several widows and
ministers of the gospel becoming indebted to htm
even for their homes.

He married Miss Elvira Lane, of Maryland, in
1803, and they became the affectionate parents of
several children, one of whom, especially, is weh'
known to the people of the " Prairie State," namely,
Ninian Wirt Edwards, once the Sujierintendent c
Public Instruction and still a resident of Springfield
Gov. Edwards resided at and in the vicinity of Kas-
kaskia from 180910 1818; in Edwardsville (named
after him) from that time to 1S24; and from the lat-
ter date at Belleville, St. Clair County, until his
death, July 20, 1833, of Asiatic cholera. Edwards
County is alsQ named in his honor.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

i^ejii

^^r^^^^'^ii.^^^^^^mSf^^r^^^k^^s^

» >i ■ # ■ — o<sti<tfj)i.-js>o— ii} > ;t - •

^^'i-.OHN REYNOLDS, Governor 1831-

■ '%«« 4' ^V'^s born in Montgomery Coun-
v5i ty, Pennsylvania, Feb. 26, 1788.
His father, Robert Reynolds and
''- *rr '^ '• 'lis mother, «(r Margaret Moore,
were both natives of Ireland, from
which country they emigrated to
the United States in 1785, land-
ing at Philadelphia. The senior
Reynolds entertained an undying
hostility to the British Govern-
ment. When the subject of this
sketch was about six months old,
his parents emigrated with him to
Tennessee, where many of their
relatives had already located, at the base of the
Copper Ridge Mountain, about 14 miles northeast of
the present city of Knoxville. There they were ex-
posed to Indian depredations, and were much molest-
ed by them. In 1794 they moved into the interior
of the State. They were poor, and brought up their
children to habits of manual industry.

In 1800 the family removed to Kaskaskia, 111., with
eight horses and two wagons, encountering many
Hardships on the way. Here young Reynolds passed
the most of his childhood, while his character began
to develop, the most prominent traits of which were
ambition and energy. He also adopted the principle
and practice of total abstinence from intoxicating
liquors. In 1807 the family made another removal,

this time to ilie " Goshen Settlement," at the foot of
the Mississippi bluffs three or four miles southwest
of Edwardsville.

On arriving at his 20th year, Mr. Reynolds, seeing
that he must look about for his own livelihood and
not yet having determined what calling to pursue,
concluded first to attend college, and he accordingly
went to such an institution of learning, near Knox-
ville, Tenn., where he had relatives. Imagine his
diffidence, when, after passing the first 20 years of
his life without ever having seen a carpet, a papered
wall or a Windsor chair, and never having lived in a
shingle-roofed house, he suddenly ushered himseli'
into the society of the wealthy in the vicinity of
Knoxville! He attended college nearly two years,
going tlirough the principal Latin authors; but it
seems that he, like the rest of the world in modern
times, had but very little use for his Latin in after
life. He always failed, indeed, to exhibit any good
degree of literary discipline. He commenced the
study of law in Knoxville, but a pulmonary trouble
came on and compelled him to change his mode
of life. Accordingly he returned home and re-
cuperated, and in 1812 resumed his college and
law studies at Knoxville. In the fall of 181 2 he was
admitted to the Bar at Kaskaskia. About tiiis time
he also learned the French language, which he
practiced with pleasure in conversation with his
family for many years. He regarded this language
as being superior to all others for social intercourse.

JOHN REYNOLDS.

From his services in the West, in the war oi 1812,
he obtained the sobriquet of the " Old Ranger." He
was Orderly Sergeant, then Judge Advocate.

Mr. Reynolds opened his first law office in the
winter and spriiig of 1814, in the French village of
Cahokia, then the capital of St. Clair County.

In the fall of 1818 he was elected an Associate
Justice upon the Supreme Bench by the General
Assembly. In 1825 he entered more earnestly than
ever into the practice of law, and the very next year
was elected a member of the Legislature, where he
acted independently of all cliques and private inter-
ests. In 1828 the Whigs and Democrats were for
the first time distinctively organized as such in Illi-
nois, and the usual party bitterness grew up and
raged on all sides, while Mr. Reynolds preserved a
iudicial calmness and moderation. The real animus
if the campaign was " Jackson " and " anti-Jackson,"
'he former party carrying the State.

In August, 1830, Mr. Reynolds was elected Gov-
.rnor, amid great excitement. Installed in office, he
did all within his power to advance the cause of edu-
cation, internal improvements, the Illinois & Mich-
igan Canal, the harbor at Chicago, settling the coun-
try, etc.; also reccmmended the winding up of the
State Bank, as its affairs had become dangerously
complicated. In his national politics, he was a
moderate supporter of General Jackson. But the
most celebrated event of his gubernatcrial admin-
istration was the Black Hawk War, which occurred
in 1832. He called out the militia and prosecuted
the contest with commendable diligence, appearing
in person on the battle-grounds during the most
critical periods. He was recognized by the President
as Major-General, and authorized by him to make
treaties with the Indians. By the assistance of the
gcrf.ral CJovernment the war was terminated without
much bloodshed, but after many serious fights. This
wir, as well as everything else, was materially re-
tarded by the occurrence of Asiatic cholera in the
West. This was its first appearance iiere, and was
I he ne.xt event in prominence during Gov. Reynolds'
lerm.

South Carolina nullification coming up at this time,
£ was heartily condemned by both President Jackson
,.nd Gov. Reynolds, who took precisely the same
grounds as the Unionists in the last war.

On the termination of his gubernatorial term in
..834, Gov. Reynolds was elected a Member of Con-
gress, still cOiisidering himself a backwoodsman, as
'e had scarcely been outside of the State since he
;)ecame of age, and had spent nearly all his youthful
lays in the wildest region of the frontier. His first
move in Congress was to adopt a resolution that in
all elections made by the House for offi'.ers the votes
should be given viva voce, each member in his ])lace
naming alovid the person for whom he votes. This
created considerable heated discussion, but was es-

sentially adopted, and remained the controlling prin-
ciple for many years. The ex Governor was scarcely
absent from his seat a single day, during eight ses-
sions of Congress, covering a period of seven years,
and he never vacillated in a party vote; but he failed
to get the Democratic party to foster his " National
Road" scheme. He says, in "My Own Times" (a
large autobiography he published), that it was only
by rigid economy that he avoided insolvency while in
Washington. Daring his sojourn in that city he was
married, to a lady of the place.

In 1837, while out of Congress, and in company
with a few others, he built the first railroad in the
Mississippi Valley, namely, one about six miles long,
leading from his coal mine in the Mississippi bluff to
the bank of the river opposite St. Louis. Having not
the means to purchase a locomotive, they operated it
by horse-power. The next spring, however, the com-
pany sold out, at great sacrifice.

In 1S39 the ex-Governor was appointed one of the
Canal Commissioners, and authorized to borrow
money to prosecute the enterprise. Accord' ngly, he
repaired to Philadelphia and succeeding in obtaining
a million dollars, which, however, was only a fourth
of what was wanted. The same year he and his
wife made at our of Europe. This year, also, Mr.
Reynolds had the rather awkward little responsibility
of introducing to President Van Buren the noted
Mormon Prophet, Joseph Smith, as a " Latter-Day
Saint!"

In 1846 Gov, Reynolds was elected a member of
the Legislature from St. Clair County, more particu-
larly for the purpose of obtaining a feasible charter
for a macadamized road from Belleville to St. Louis,
a distance of nearly 14 miles. This was immediately
built, and was the first road of the kind in the State.
He was again elected to the Legislature in 1852, when
he was chosen Speaker of the House. In i860, aged
and infirm, he attended the National Democratic
Convention at Charleston, S. C, as an anti-Douglas
Delegate, where he received more attention from the
Southern Delegates than any other member. He
supported Breckenridge for the Presidency. After
the October elections foreshadowed the success of
Lincoln, he published an address urging the Demo-
crats to rally to the support of Douglas. Immedi-
ately preceding- and during the late war, his corre-
spondence evinced a clear sympathy for the Southern
secession, and about the first of March, 1861, he
urged upon the Buchanan officials the seizure of the
treasure and arms in the custom-house and arsenal
at St. Louis. Mr. Reynolds was a rather talkative
man, and apt in all the Western phrases and catch-
words that ever gained currency, besides many cun-
ning and odd ones of his own manufacture.

He was married twice, but had no children. He
died in Belleville, in May, 1865, just after the close
of the war,

U--(^»'i^^

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

127

. — ->5— =S- — o<s$-^il»-^-o— s»-5-<

»■.

ILLIAM LEE U. EVVING,
'^ Governor of Illinois Nov. 3
j^;3 to 17, 1834, was a native
of Kentucky, and probably
of Scotch ancestry. He had
a fine education, was a gentle-
man of polished manners and
refined sentiment. In 1830 John Rey-
nolds was elected Governor of the State,
and Zadok Casey Lieutenant Governor,
and for the principal events that followed,
and the characteristics of the times, see
sketch of Gov. Reynolds. The first we
see in history concerning Mr. Ewing, in-
forms us that he was a Receiver of Public
Moi cys ut Vandalia soon after the organization of
mi:- State, and that the public moneys in his hands
vere deposited in various banks, as they are usually
■'■ \\\y /resent day. In 1823 the State Bank was
obbed, by which disaster Mr. Ewing lost a thousand-
dollar deposit.

Vhe subject of this sketch had a commission as
Colonel in the Black Hawk War, and in emergencies
lie acred also as Major. In the summer of 1832,
^hen i vras rumored among the wliites that Black
Hawk ar.d 'lis men had encamped somewhere on
Rock River, Gen. Henry was sent on a totn- of
reconnoisance, and with orders to drive the Indians
from the State. After some opposition from his
subordinate officers, Henry resolved to proceed u|)
Rock River in search of the enemy. On the 19th of
July, early in the morning, five baggage wagons,

camp equipage and all heavy and cumbersome arti
cles were piled up and left, so that the army niig';
make speedy and forced marches. For some mil. ■
the travel was exceedingly bad, crossing swanvis
and the worst thickets ; but the large, fresh trail
gave life and animation to the Americans. Gen.
Dodge and Col. Ewing were both acting as Majors,
and composed the " spy corps " or vanguard of the
army. It is supposed the army marched nearly 53
miles this day, and the Indian trail they followed
became fresher, and was strewed v/ith much property
and trinkets of the red-skiiv; tli.it they had lost or
thrown awaj to hasten their march. During 'he
following night there was a terrific thunder-storm, and
the soldiery, with all their appurtenances, were dior.
oughly drenched.

On approaching nearer the Indians the next day.
Gen. Dodge and Major Ewing, each commanding a
battalion of men, were placed in front to bring on the
battle, but the savages were not overtaken this day
Forced marches were continued until they reache 1.
Wisconsin River, where a veritable battle ensued,
resulting in the death of about 68 of Black Hawk's
men. The next day they continued the chase, and
as soon as he discovered the trail of the Indians
leading toward the Mississippi, Maj, Ewing formed
his battalion in order of battle and awaited the order
of Gen. Henry. The latter soon appeared on the
ground and ordered a charge, wiiich directly resulted
in chasing the red warriors across the great river.
Maj. Ewing and his command proved particularly
efficient in war, as it seems they were the chief actors
in driving the main body of the Sacs and Foxes, in-

128

WILLI AM L. D. EWING.

eluding Black Hawk himself, across ilie Mississippi,
while Gen. Atkinson, commander-in-chief of the ex-
pedition, with a body of the army, was hunting for
them "11 another direction.

In tiie above affair Maj. Ewing is often referred to
as a "Ger.eral," wl;ich title he had derived from his
connection with the militia.

It was in the latter part of the same year (1832)
that Lieutenant Governor Casey was elected to Con-
gress. and Gen. Ewing, who had been elected to the
Cei:ate, was chosen to preside over that body. At
ihe August election of 1S34, Gov. Reynolds was also
elec'ed to Congress, more than a year ahead of the
lime at which he could actually take his seat, as was
then the law. His predecessor, Chailes Slade, had
just died of Asiatic cholera, soon after the elec-
tion, and Gov. Reynolds was chosen to serve out his
unexpired terra. Ac;ordingly he set out for Wash-
ington in November of that year to take his seat in
Congress, and Gen. Ewing, by virt.:e of his office as
President of the Senate, became Governor of the
Stat"; of Illinois, his term covering only a period of
15 days, namely, from the 3d to the lytii days, in-
clusive, of November. O.i the 17th the Legislature
met, and Gov. Ewing transmitted to that body his
message, giving a statement of the condition of the
affairs of the State at that time, and urging a contin-
uance of the jx'licy adopted by his predecessor; and
on the same day Governor elect Joseph Duncan
vas sworn into offi^ e, thus relieving Mr. Ewing from

the responsible situation. This is the only time that
such a juncture has happened in the history of Illi-
nois.

On the 29th of December, 1835, Gen. Ewing was
elected a United States Senator to serve out the
unex|)ired term of Elias Kent Kane, deceased. The
latter gentleman was a very prominent figure in the
early politics of Illinois, and a county in this State is
named in his honor. The election of Gen. Ewing to
the Senate was a protracted struggle. His competi-
tors were James Semple, who afterwards held several
important offices in this State, and Richard M.
Young, afterward a United States Senator and a
Supreme Judge and a man of vast influence. On
the first ballot Mr. Semple had 25 votes. Young 19
and Ewing 18. On the eighth ballot Young was
dropped ; the ninth and tenth stood a tie ; but on
the 1 2th Ewing received 40, to Semple 37, and was
accordingly declared elected. In 1S37 Mr. Ewing
received some votes for a continuance of his term in
Congress, when Mr. Young, just referred to, was
elected. In 1842 Mr. Ewing was elected State
Audit':-r on the ticket with Gov. Ford.

Gen. Ewing was a gentleman of culture, a lawyer
by profession, and was much in public life. In person
he was above medium height and of heavy build,
with auburn hair, blue eyes, large-sized head and
short face. He was genial, social, friendly and
affable, with fair talent, though of no high degree of
originality. He died March 25, 1846.

,,^;;'^^^'«^^?^^<>-i^?^^/^'t__

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

«3'

,^^(P))" err

la,. .i2i~^»g|5!/Z'J'''»^ a

flwHicam.

'^^^

OSEPH DUNCAN, Governor
i§j5 1834-8, was born at Paris,
Ky., Feb. 23, 1794. At the
tender age of 19 years lie en-
listed in the war against Greal
Britain, and as a soldier he
acquitted himself with credit. He
was an Ensign under the daunt-
less Croghan at Lower Sandusky,
or Fort Stephenson. In Illinois
he first appeared in a public capa-
city as Major-Geneial of the Militia,
a position which his military fame
had procured him. Subsequently
he became a State Senator from
Jackson County, and is honorably
mentioned fur introducing tlie first bill providing for
a free-school system. In 1826, when the redoubt-
able John P. Cook, who had previously beaten such
men as John McLean, Elias Kent Kane and ex-
Gov. Bond, came up for the fourth time for Congress,
Mr. Duncan was brought forward against him by his
friends, greatly to the surprise of all the politicians,
^s yet he was but little known in the State. He was
an original Jackson man at that time, being attached
to his political fortune in admiration of the glory of
his militasy achievements. His chances of success
against Cook were generally regarded as hopeless,
but he entered upon the campaign undaunted. His
speeches, though short and devoid of ornament, were
full of good sense. He made a diligent canvass of
the State, Mr. Cook being hindered by the condition of
his health. The most that was expected of Mr.
Duncan, under the circumstances, was that he would

obtain a respectable vote, but without defeating M'-
Cook. The result of the campaign, however, was .1
source of surprise and amazement to both fue-.-.d;
and foes, as Mr. Duncan came out 641 votes ahe.id'
He received 6,321 votes, and Mr. Cook 5,680. Un-
til this denouement, the violence of party feeling
smoldering in the breasts of the people on account
of the defeat of Jackson, was not duly appreciated.
Aside from the great convention struggle of 1824, no
other than mere local and per3onal considerations
had ever before controlled an election in Illinois.

From the above date Mr. Duncan retained his
seat in Congress until his election as Governor in
-August, 1834. The first and bloodless year of the
Black Hawk War he was appointed by Gov. Rey-
nolds to the position of Brigadier-General of the
volunteers, and he conducted his brigade to Rock
Island. But he was absent from the State, in Wash-
ington, during the gubernatorial campaign, and did
not personally pardcipate in it, but addressed circu-
lars to his constituents. His election was, indeed,
attributed to the circumstance of his absence, be-
cause his estrangement from Jackson, forineriy hii
political idol, and also from the Democracy, largely
in ascendency in the State, was complete; but while
his defection was well known to his Whig friends,
and even to the leading Jackson men of this State,
the latter were unable to carry conviction of that fact
to the masses, as mail and newspaper facilities ;ii
that day were far inferior to those of the present
time. Of course the Governor was much abused
afterward by the fossilized Jackson men who re-
garded party ties and affiliations as above all.
other issues that could arise; but he was doubtless

'32

JOSEPH DUNCAN.

sincere in his opposition to the old hero, as the latter
j;ad vetoed several important western measures
which were dear to Mr. Duncan. In his inaugural
message he threw off the mask and took a bold stand
rgain St the course of the President. The measures
-.e recommended in his message, however, were so
desirable that the Legislature, although by a large
majority consisting of Jackson men, could not refrain
from endorsing them. These measures related
raainly to tanks and internal improvements.

It was while Mr. Duncan was Governor that the
people of Illinois went whirling on with bank and in-
ternal improvement schemes that well nigh bank-
'upted the Slate. The hard times of 1837 came on,
ind the disasters that attended the inauguration of
;hese plans and the operation of the banks were mu-
tually charged upon the two political parties. Had
any one man autocratic power to introduce and
carry on any one of these measures, he would proba-
bly have succeeded to the satisfaction of the public;
Lut as many jealous men had hold of the same plow
handle, no success followed and each blamed the other
'or the failure. In this great vorte.x Gov. Duncan
was carried along, suffering the like derogation of
character with his fellow citizens.

At the height of the e.\citement the Legislature
" provided for " railroads from Galena to Cairo, Alton
to Shawneetown, Alton to Mount Carmel, Alton to the
eastern boundary of the State in the direction of
Terre Haute, Qaincy via Springfield to the Wabash,
Bloomington to Pekin, and Peoria to Warsaw, — in all
about 1,300 miles of road. It also provided for the
improvement of the navigation of the Kaskaskia,
Illinois, Great and Little Wabash and Rock Rivers ;
also as a placebo, $200,000 in money were to be dis-
tributed to the various counties wherein no improve-
ments were ordered to be made as above. The
estimate for the expenses for all these projects was
;laced at a little over $10,000,000, which was not
more man half enough ! That would now be equal to
saddling upon the State a debt of $225,000,000! It
was sufficient to bankrupt the State several times
over, even counting all the possible benefits.

One of the most exciting events that ever occurred
:n this fair State was the murder of Elijah P. Love-
ioy in the fall of 1837, at Alton, during Mr. Duncan's
term as Governor. Lovejoy was an " Abolitionist,"
editing the Observer at that place, and the pro-
slavery slums there formed themselves into a mob.

and after destroying successively three presses be-
longing to Mr. Lovejoy, surrounded the warehouse
where the fourth press was stored away, endeavoring
to destroy it, and where Lovejoy and his friends
were entrenching themselves, and shot and killed the
brave reformer!

About this time, also, the question of removing the
State capital again came up, as the 20 years' limit for
its existence at Vandalia was drawing to a close.
There was, of course, considerable excitement over
the matter, the two main points competing for it be-
ing Springfield and Peoria. The jealousy of the lat-
ter place is not even yet, 45 years afterward, fully
allayed.

Gov. Duncan's term expired in 1S38. In 1842
he was again proposed as a candidate for the Execu-
tive chair, this time by the Whig party, against Adam
W. Snyder, of St. Clair County, the nominee of the
Democrats. Charles W. Hunter was a third candi-
date for the same position. Mr. Snyder, however, died
before the campaign had advanced very far, and his
party substituted Thomas Ford, who was elected,
receiving 46,901 votes, to 38,584 for Duncan, and
909 for Hunter. The cause of Democratic success
at this time is mainly attributed to the tem[X)rary
support of the Mormons which they enjoyed, and the
want of any knowledge, on the part of the masses,
that Mr. Ford was opposed to any given [xjlicy en-
tertained in the respective localities.

Gov. Duncan was a man of rather limited educa-
tion, but with naturally fine abilities he profited
greatly by his various public services, and gathered
a store of knowledge regarding public affairs which
served him a ready purjMse. He possessed a clear
judgment, decision, confidence in himself and moral
courage to carry out his convictions of right. In his
deportment he was well adapted to gain the admira-
tion of the people. His intercourse with them was
both affable and dignified. His jx)rtrait at the Gov-
ernor's mansion, from which the accompanying was
made, represents him as having a swarthy complex-
ion, high cheek bones, broad forehead, piercing black
eves and straight black hair.

He was a liberal patron of the Illinois College at
Jacksonville, a member of its Board of Trustees, and
died, after a short illness, Jan. 15, 1844, a devoted
member of the Presbyterian Church, leaving a wife
but no children. Two children, born to them, had
died in infancy.

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'35

^i^

^Y|]M^10MAS CARLIN, tlie sixth
i..2^Jlrm Governor of the State of
Ilhnois, serving from 1838
to 1842, was also a Ken-
tuciiian, being born near
Frankfort, that State, July
18, 1789, of Irish paternity.
The opportunities for an education
being very meager in his native
place, he, on approaching years of
jud'nnent and maturity, applied
himself to those branches of learn-
ing that seemed most important,
and thus became a self-made man ;
and his taste for reading and
study remained with him through
life. In 1803 his father removed
to Missouri, then a part of " New Spain," where he
died in 1810.

In 181 2 young Carlin came to Illinois and partici-
pated in all the "ranging" service incident to the
war of that period, proving himself a soldier of un-
daunted bravery. In 1814 he married Rebecca
Huitt, and lived for four years on tlie bank of the
Mississippi River, opposite the moutli of the Mis-
sojiri, where he followed farming, and then removed
to Greene County. He located the town site of Car-
TOiton, in that county, and in 1825 made a liberal
donation of land for county building purposes. He
was the first Sheriff of that county after its separate
organization, and afterward was twice elected, as a
Jackson Democrat, to the Illinois Senate. In the
Black Hawk War he commanded a spy battalion, a
post of considerable danger. In 1834 he was ap-
pointed by President Jackson to the position of
Receiver of Public Moneys, and to fulfill the office

more conveniently he removed to the city of Quincy.
While, in 1838, tlic unwieldy internal improvement
system of the State was in full operation, with all its
expensive machinery, amidst bank suspensions
throughout the United States, a great stringency in
the money market everywhere, and Illinois bonds
forced to sale at a heavy discount, and the " hardest
times" existing that the people of the Prairie State
ever saw, the general election of State officers was
approaching. Discreet men who had cherished the
hope of a speedy subsidence of the public infatua-
tion, met with disappointment. A Governor and
Legislature were to be elected, and these were now
looked forward to for a repeal of the ruinous State
policy. But the grand scheme had not yet lost its
dazzling influence upon the minds of the people.
Time and experience had not yet fully demonstrated
its utter absurdity. Hence the question of arresting
its career of profligate expenditures did not become
a leading one with the dominant party during the
campaign, and most of the old members of the Leg-
islature were returned at this election.

Under these circumstances the Democrats, in State
Convention asseinbled, nominated Mr. Carlin for the
office of Governor, and S. H. Anderson for Lieuten-
ant Governor, while the Whigs nominated Cyrus Ed-
wards, brotherof Ninian Edwards, forn.ierly Governor,
and W. H. Davidson. Edwards came out strongly
for a continuance of the State policy, while Car'tu"
remained non-committal. This was the first time
that the two main political parties in this State were
unembarrassed by any third party in the field. The
result of the election was: Carlin, 35,573 ; -Ander-
son, 30,335 ; Edwards, 29,629 ; and Davidson, 28,-

Upon the meeting of the subsequent Legislature
(1839), the retiring Governor CDuncan) in liis mes-

136

THOMAS CARLIN.

sage six)ke in emphatic terms of the impolicy of the
internal improvement system, presaging the evils
threatened, and uiged that body to do their utmost
to correct the great error ; yet, on the contrary, the
Legislature not only decided to continue the policy
but also added to its burden by voting more appro-
priations and ordering more improvements. Although
the money market was still stringent, a further loan
of §4,000,000 was ordered for the Illinois & Mich-
igan Canal alone. Cti'cago at that time began to
loom up and promise to be an important city, even
the great emporium of the West, as it has since in-
deed came to be. Ex-Gov. Reynolds, an incompe-
tent financier, was commissioned to effect the loan,
and accordingly hastened to the East on this respons-
ible errand, and negotiated the loans, at considera-
ble sacrifice to the State. Besides this embarrassment
tc Carlin's administration, the Legislature also de-
clared that he had no authority to appoint a Secretary
of State until a vacancy existed, and A. P. Field, a
Whig, who had already held the post by apjMintment
through three administrations, was determined to
keep the place a while longer, in spite of Gov. Car-
lin's preferences. The course of the Legislature in
this regard, however, was finally sustained by the
Supreme Court, in a quo warranto case brought up
before it by John A. McClernand, whom the Gov-
ernor had nominated for the office. Thereupon that
dignified body was denounced as a "Whig Court!'
endeavoring to estabhsh the principle of life-tenure
of office.

A new law was adopted re-organizing the Judici-
ary, and under it five additional Supreme Judges
were elected by the Legislature, namely, Thomas
Ford (afterward Governor), Sidney Breese, Walter B.
Scates, Samuel H. Treat and Stephen A. Douglas —
all Democrats.

It was during Cov. Carlin's administration that the
noisy campaign of " Tippecanoe and Tyler too " oc-
curred, resulting in a Whig victory. This, however,
did net affect Illinois politics very seriously.

Another prominent event in the West during Gov.
Carlin's term of office was the excitement caused by
the Mormons and their removal from Independence,
Mo., to Nauvoo, 111., in 1840. At the same time
they began to figure soraewliat in State politics. On
account of tlieir believing — as they thought, accord-
ing to the New Testament — th;it they should have

" all things common," and that consequently " all
the earth " and all that is upon it were the" Lord's "
and therefore the property of his " saints," they
were suspected, and correctly, too, of committing
many of the deeds of larceny, robbery, etc., that
were so rife throughout this country in those days.
Hence a feeling of violence grew up between the
Mormons and "anti-Mormons." In the State of
Missouri the Monnons always supported the Dem-
ocracy until they were driven out by the Democratic
government, when they turned their support to the
Whigs. They were becoming numerous, and in the
Legislature of iS4o-r, therefore, it became a matter
of great interest with both parties to conciliate these
people. Through the agency of one John C. Ben-
nett, a scamp, the Mormons succeeded in rushing
through the Legislature (both parties not darinj; to
oppose) a charter for the city of Nauvoo which vir-
tually erected a hierarchy co-ordinate with the Fed-
eral Government itself. In the fall of 1841 the
Governor of Missouri made a demand upon Gov.
Carlin for the body of Joe Smith, the Mormon leader,
as a fugitive from justice. Gov. Carlin issued the
writ, but for some reason it was returned unserved.
It was again issued in 1842, and Smith was arrested,
but was either rescued by bis followers or discharged
by the municipal court on a writ of habeas corpus.

In December, 1841, the Democratic Convention
nominated .A.dam W. Snyder, of Belleville, for Gov-
ernor. As he had been, as a member of the Legisla-
ture, rather friendly to the Mormons, the latter
naturally turned their support to the Democratic
party. The next spring the Whigs nominated Ex-
Gov. Duncan for the same office. In the meantime
the Mormons began to grow more odious to the
masses of the people, and the comparative prospects
of the respective parties for success became very
problematical. Mr. Snyder died in May, and
Thomas Ford, a Supreme Judge, was substituted as
a candidate, and was elected.

At the close of his gubernatorial term, Mr. Carlin
removed back to his old home at Carrollton, where
he spent the remainder of his life, as before his ele-
vation to office, in agricultural pursuits. In 1S/.9
he served out the unexpired term of J. D. Fry in the
Illinois House of Representatives, and died Feb. 4.
1852, at his residence at Carrollton, leaving a wife
and seven children.

{^/-'i^yv-OLj

GOVERNORS OF ILLTNOIS.

»39

^mmm^mm mm.

JKOMAS FORD, Governor
from 1842 to 1S46, and au-
thor of a very interesting
history of Illinois, was born
at Uniontown, Pa., in the
year i Soo. His mother, after
the death of her first hus-
band (Mr. Forqaer), married Rob-
ert Ford, yfho was killed in 1802,
by the Indians in the mountains
of Pennsylvania. She was conse-
quently left in indigent circum-
stances, with a large family, mostly
itev yirls. With a view to better her
^ condition, she, in 1804, removed to
jA, ,>^-c^ Missouri, where it had been cus-
"•^ ^"'^^ tomary by the Spanish Govern-
ment to give land to actual settlers; but upon her
arrival at St. Louis she found the country ceded to
the United States, and the liberal policy louard set-
tlers changed by the new ownership. After some
sickness to herself and family, she finally removed to
Illinois, and settled some three miles south of Water-
loo, but the following year moved nearer the Missis-
sippi bluffs. Here young Ford received his first i

schooling, under the instructions of a Mr. Humphrey,
for which he had to walk three miles. His mother,
though lacking a thorough education, was a woman
of superior mental endoivments, joined to energy
and determination of character. She inculcated in
her children those high-toned principles which dis-
tinguished her sons in public life. She exercised a
rigid economy to provide her children an education ;
but George Forquer, her oldest son (six years older
than Thomas Ford), at an early age had to quit
school to aid by his labor in the support of the family.
He afterward became an eminent man in Illinois
affairs, and bat for his early death would probably
have been elected to the United States Senate.

Young Ford, with somewhat better opportunities,
received a better education, though limited to the
curriculum of the common school of those pioneer
times. His mind gave early promise of superior en-
dowments, with an inclination fur mathematics. His
proficiency attracted the attention of Hon. Daniel P.
Cook, who became his efficient patron and friend.
The latter gentleman was an eminent Illinois states-
man who, as a Member of Congress, obtained a grant
of 300,000 acres of land 'to aid in completing the
Illinois & Michigan Canal, and after whom the
county of Cook was named. Through the advice of

■ 4°

7'HOMAS FORD.

this genileinaii, Mr. Ford turned his attention to the
study of law; but Forquer, then merchandising, re-
garding liis education defective, sent him to Transyl-
vania University, where, liowever, he remained but
one term, owing to Forquer's failure in business. On
liis return he alternated his law reading with teach-
ing school for support.

In 1829 Gov. Edwards appointed hira Prosecuting
Attorney, and in 1831 he was re-appointed by Gov.
Reynolds, and after that he was four times elected a
Judge by the Legislature, witliout oiJposition, twice a
Circuit Judge, o.ice a Judge of Chicago, and as As-
sociate Judge of the Supreme Court, when, in 1S41,
the latter tiibunal was re-organized by the addition
of five Judges, all Democrats. Ford was assigned to
the Ninth Judicial Circuit, and while in this capacity
he was holding Court in Ogle County he received a
notice of his nomination by the Democratic Conven-
tion for the office of Governor. He immediately re-
signed his place and entered upon the canvass. In
August, 1842, he was elected, and on the 8th of De-
cember following he was inaugurated.

All the offices which he had held were unsolicited
by him. He received them upon the true Jefiferson-
ian principle, — Never to ask and never to refuse
office. Both as a lawyer and as a Judge he stood
disirvedly high, but his cast of intellect fitted him
rather for a writer upon law than a practicing advo-
cate in the courts. In the latter capacity he was void
of the moving power of eloquence, so necessary to
success with juries. As a Judge his opinions were
"ound, lucid and able expositions of the law. In
|)ractice, he was a stranger to the tact, skill and in-
sinuating address of the politician, but he saw through
:he arts of demagogues as well as any man. He was
plain in his demeanor, so much so, indeed, that at
one time after the expiration of his term of office,
during a session of the Legislature, he was taken by
a stranger 10 be a seeker for the position of door-
keeper, and was waited upon at liis hotel near mid-
r.ight by a knot of small office-seekers with the view
of effecting a " combination ! "

iVIr. Ford had not the " brass " of the ordinary
politician, nor that impetuosity which characterizes a
political leader. He cared little for money, and
hardly enough for a decent support. In person he
was of small stature, slender, of dark complexion,
with black hair, sharp features, deep-set eyes, a
pointed, aquiline nose having a decided twist to o:ie
side, and a small mouth.

The three most important events in Gov. Ford's
r.dministration were the establishment of the high
financial credit of the State, the " Mormon War "and
.he Mexican War.

In the first of these the Gjvernor proved himself
'o be eminently wise. On coming into office he found
'he State 1) idly pxralyzel byilie ruinous effects of
the notorious "internal inii>iovenient " schemes of

the preceding decade, with scarcely anything to
show by way of "improvement." The enterprise
that seemed to be getting ahead more than all the
rest was the Illinois & Michigan Canal. As this
promised to be the most important thoroughfare,
feasible to the people, it was well under headway in
its construction. Therefore the State policy was
almost concentrated upon it, in order to rush it on tc
completion. The bonded indebtedness of the State
was growing so large as to frighten the people, and
they were about ready to entertain a proposition for
repudiation. But the Governor had the foresight to
recommend such measures as would maintain the
public credit, for which every citizen to-day feels
thankful.

But perhaps the Governor is remembered more for
his connection with the Mormon troubles than for
anything else; for it was during his term of office
that the " Latter-Day Saints " became so strong at
Nauvoo, built their temple there, increased their num-
bers throughout the country, committed misdemean-
ors, taught dangerous doctrines, suffered the loss of
theirleader, Jo Smith, by a violent death, were driven
out of Nauvoo to the far West, etc. Having been a
Judge for so many years previously, Mr. Ford of
course was non-committal concerning Mormon affairs,
and was therefore claimed by both parties and also
accused by each of sympathizing too greatly with the
otlier side. Mormo:iism claiming to be a system of
religion, the Governor no doubt was "between two
fires," and felt compelled to touch the matter rather
" gingerly," and doubtless felt greatly relieved when
th It pestilential people left the State. Such compli-
cated matters, especially when religion is mixed up
with them, expose every person participating in
them to criticism from all parties.

The Mexican War was begun in the spring of
1845, and was continued into the gubernatorial term
of Mr. Ford's successor. The Governor's connection
with this war, however, was not conspicuous, as it
was only administrative, commissioning officers, etc.

Ford's " History of Illinois " is a very readable and
entertaining work, of 450 small octavo pages, and is
destined to increase in value with the lapse of time.
It exhibits a natural flow of compact and forcible
thought, never failing to convey the nicest sense. In
tracing with his trenchant pen the devious operations
of the professional politician, in which he is inimit-
able, his account is open, perhaps, to the objection
that all his contemporaries are treated as mere place-
seekers, while many of them have since been judged
by the people to be worthy statesmen. His writings
seem slightly open to the criticism that they exhibit
a little splenetic partiality against those of his con-
temporaries who were prominent during his term of
office as Governor.

The death of Gov. Ford took place at Peoria, 111.,
Nov. 2, 1850.

— ^5:^^^^>^^

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOJS.

Augustus €. French. |

AUGUSTUS C. FRENCH,
Governor of Illinois from
1846 to 1852, was born in
the town of Hill, in the
State of New Hampshire,
Aug. 2, 1808. He was a
descendant in the fourth
generation of Nathaniel
Frencli, who emigrated from England
in 16S7 and settled in Saybury, Mass.
In early life young French lost his
father, but continued to receive in-
struction from an exemplary and
Christian mother until he was i 9 years
old, when she also died, confiding to
his care and trust four younger broth-
ers and one sister. He discharged his trust with
parental devotion. His education in early life was
such mainly as a common school afforded. ■ For a
brief period he attended Dartmouth College, but
from pecuniary causes and the care of his brothers
and sister, he did not graduate. He subsequently
read law, and was admitted to the Bar in 1831, and
shortly afterward removed to Illinois, settling first at
Albion, Edwards County, where he established him-
self in the practice of law. The following year he
removed to Paris, Edgar County. Here he attained
eminence in his profession, and entered public life
by representing that county in the Legislature. A
strong attachment sprang up between him and Ste-
phen A. Douglas.

In 1839, Mr. French was appointed Receiver of
the United States Land Office at Palestine, Craw-
ford County, at which place he was a resident when

elevated to the gubernatorial chair. In 1844 he was
a Presidential Elector, and as such he voted tor
James K. Polk.

The Democratic State Convention of 1S46, meet-
ing at Springfield Feb. 10, nominated Mr. French
for Governor. Other Democratic candidates were
Lyman Trumbull, John Calhoun (subsequently of
Lecompton Constitution notoriety), Walter B. Scates.
Richard M. Young and A. W. Cavarly, — an array of
very able and prominent names. Trumbull was per-
haps defeated in the Convention by the rumor that
he was opposed to the Illinois and Michigan Canal,
as he had been a year previously. For Lieutenant
Governor J. B. Wells was chosen, while other candi-
dates were Lewis Ross, \Vm. McMurtry, Newton
Cloud, J. B. Hamilton and W. W. Thompson. The
resolutions declared strongly against the resuscita-
tion of the old State Banks.

The Whigs, who were in a hopeless minority, held
their convention June 8, at Peoria, and selected
Thomas M. Kilpatrick, of Scott County, for Governor,
and Gen. Nathaniel G. Wilcox, of Schuyler, for
Lieutenant Governor.

In the campaign the latter exposi^d Mr. French's
record and connection with the passage of the in-
ternal improvement system, urging it against his
election; but in the mcntime the war with Mexico
broke out, regarding which the Whig record was un-
popular in this State. The war was the absorbing
and dominating question of the period, sweeping
every other political issue in its course. The elec-
tion in August gave Mr. French 58,700 votes, and
Kilpatrick only 36,775. Richard Eells, Abolitionist
candidate for the same ofSce, received 5,152 vot<»s

144

" AUGUSTUS C. FRENCH.

By the new Constitution of 1S48, a new election for
State officers was ordered in Novembei of that year,
before Gov. French's term was half out, and he was
re-elected for the term of four years. He was there-
fore the incumbenj for six consecutive years, the
only Governor of this State who has ever served in
that capacity so long at one time. As there was no
organized opix)sitlon to his election, he received 67,-
453 votes, to 5,639 for Pierre -Menard (son of the
first Lieutenant Governor), 4,748 for Charles V.
Dyer, 3,834 for W. L. D. Morrison, and 1,361 for
James I^. D. Morrison. But Wm. McMurtry, of
Knox County, was elected Lieutenant Governor, in
place of Joseph B. Wells, who was before elected
and did not run again.

Governor French was inaugurated into office dur-
ing the progress of the Me.\ican War, which closed
during the summer of 1847, although the treaty of
Guadalupe Hidalgo was not made until Feb. 2,
1848. The policy of Gov. French's party was com-
mitted to that war, but in connection with that affair
he was, of course, only an administrative officer.
During his term of office, Feb. 19, 1847, the Legisla-
ture, by special permission of Congress, declared that
all Government lands sold to settlers should be im-
mediately subject to State taxation; before this they
were exempt for five years after sale. By this ar-
rangement the revenue was materially increased.
About the same lime, the distribution of Government
land warrants among the Mexican soldiers as bounty
threw upon the market a great quantity of good
lands, and this enhanced the settlement of the State.
The same Legislature authorized, with the recom-
mendation of the Governor, the sale of the Northern
Cross Railroad (from Springfield to Meredosia, the
first in the State and now a section of the Wabash,
St. Louis & Pacific) It sold for §100,000 in bonds,
although it had cost the State not less than a million.
Tiie salt wells and canal lands in the Saline reserve
in Gallatin County, granted by the general Govern-
ment to the State, were also authorized by the
Governor to be sold, to apply on the State debt. In
1850, for the first time since 1839, the accruing State
revenue, exclusive of specific appropriations, was
sufficient to meet the current demands upon the
treasury. The aggregate taxable property of the
State at this time was over §100,000,000, and tl':.-^
population 851,470.

In 1849 the Legislature adopted the township or-
ganization law, which, however, proved defective,
and was properly amended in 1851. At its session
in the latter year, the General Assembly also passed
a law to exempt homesteads from sale on executions
This beneficent measure had been repeatedly urged
upon that body by Gov. French.

In 1S50 some business men in St. Louis com-
menced to build a dike opposite the lower part of
their city on the Illinois side, to keep the Mississippi
in its channel near St. Louis, instead of breaking
away from them as it sometimes threatened to do.
This they undertook without permission from the
Legislature or Executive authority of this State ; and
as many of the inhabitants thers complained that
the scheme would inundate and ruin much valuable
land, there was a slight conflict of jurisdictions, re-
sulting in favor of the St. Louis project ; and since
then a good site has existed there for a city (East St.
Louis), and now a score of railroads center there.

It was in September, 1850, that Congress granted
to this State nearly 3,000,000 acres of land in aid of
the completion of the Illinois Central Railroad,
which constituted the most important epoch in the
railroad — we might say internal improvement — his-
tory of the .State. The road was rushed on to com-
pletion, which accelerated the settlement of the in-
terior of the State by a good class of industrious citi-
zens, and by the charter a good income to the State
Treasury is paid in from the earnings of the road.

In 185 I the Legislature passed a law authorizing
free stock banks, which was the source of much leg-
islative discussion for a number of years.

But we have not space further to particularize
concerning legislation. Gov. French's administra-
tion was not marked by any feature to be criticised,
while the country was settling up as never before.

In stature, Gov. French was of medium height,
squarely built, light comple.xioned, with ruddy face
and pleasant countenance. In manners he was
plain and agreeable. By nature he was somewhat
diffident, but he was often very outspoken in his con-
victions of duty. In public speech he was not an
orator, but was chaste, earnest and persuasive. In
business he was accurate and methodical, and in his
administration he kept up the credit of the State.

He died in 1S65, at his home in Lebanon, St
Glair Co., 111.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

»47

y^^^^Wi^g^^^a^j^^qp^

s^<^-«l>-fe'«

';j|OEL A. MATTESON, Governor
,^*» I S5 3-6, was born Aug. 8, 180S,
in Jefferson County, New York,
to which place his father had re-
moved from Vermont three years
before. His father was a farmer
in fair circumstances, but a com-
mon English education was all
that his only son received. Young
Joel first tempted fortune as a
small tradesman in Prescott,
Canada, before he was of age.
He returned from that place to
his home, entered an academy,
tauglit school, visited the prin-
cipal Eastern cities, improved a farm his father had
given him, m.ide a tour in the South, worked there
m building railroads, experienced a slorm on the
Gulf of Mexico, visited the gold diggings of Northern
Georgia, and returned via Nashville to St. Louis and
through Illinois to his fatlier's home, when he mar-
ried. In 1833, having sold his firm, he removed,
with his wife and one child, to Illinois, and entered
a claim on Government land near the head of An
Sable River, in what is now Kendall County. At
that time there were not more than two neighbors
within a range of ten miles of his place, and only
three or four houses l;etween liini and Chicago. He
opened a large farm. His family was boarded 1 2

miles away while he erected a Iiouse on his claim,
sleeping, during this time, under a rude pole shed.
Here his life was once placed in imminent peril by
a huge prairie rattlesnake sharing his bed.

In 1S35 he bought largely at the Government land
sales. During th.e speculative real-estate mania which
broke out in Chicago in 1S36 and spread over the State,
he sold his lands itnder the inflation of that period
and removed to Joliet. In 1S38 he became a heavy
contractor on the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Upon
the completion of his job in 1841, when hard times
prevailed, business at a stand, contracts paid in State
scrip; when all the public works except the canal
were abandoned, the State olTered for sale 700 tons
of railroad iron, which was purchased by Mr. Mat-
teson at a bargain. This he accepted, shipped and
sold at Detroit, realizing a very handsome profit,
enough to pay off all his canal debts and leave him a
surplus of several thousand dollars. His enterprise
next prompted him to start a woolen mill at Joliet,
in which he prospered, and which, after successive
enlargements, became an enormous establishment.

In 1842 he was first elected a State Senator, but,
by a bungling apuortionment, John Pearson, a Senator
holding over, was found to be in the same district,
and decided to be entitled to represent it. Mat-
teson's seat was declared vacant. Pearson, however
with a nobleness difficult to appreciate in this day of

148

JOEL A. MATTESON.

greed for office, unwilling to represent his district
under the circumstances, immediately resigned his
unexpired term of two years. A bill was passed in a
few liours ordering a new election, and in ten days'
time Mr. Matteson was returned re-elected and took
his seat as Senator. From his well-known capacity
as a business man, he was made Chairman of the
Committee oa Finance, a position he held during
this half and two full succeeding Senatorial terms,
discharging its important duties with ability and faith-
fulness. Besides his extensive woolen-mill interest,
when work was resumed on the canal under the new
loan of $1,600,000 he again became a heavy con-
tractor, and also subsequently operated largely in
building railroads. Tints he showed himself a most
energetic and thorough business man.

He was nominated for Governor by the Demo-
cratic State Convention which met at Springfield
April 20, 1852. Other candidates before the Con-
vention were D. L. Gregg and F. C. Sherman, of
Cook ; John Dement, of Lee ; Thomas L. Harris, of
Menard; Lewis W. Ross, of Fulton ; and D. P. Bush,
of Pike. Gustavus Koerner, of St. Clair, was nom-
inated for Lieutenant Governor. For the same offices
the Whigs nominated Edwin B. Webb and Dexter A.
Knowlton. Mr. Matteson received 80,645 votes at
the election, while Mr. Webb received 64,408. Mat-
teson's forte was not on the stump; he had not cul-
tivated the art of oily flattery, or the faculty of being
all things to all men. His intellectual qualities took
rather the direction of efficient executive ability. His
turn consisted not so much in the adroit manage-
ment of partj', or the powerful advocacy of great gov-
ernmental principles, as in those more solid and
enduring operations which cause the physical devel-
opment and advancement of a State, — of commerce
and business enterprise, into which he labored with
success to lead the people. As a politician he was
just and liberal in his views, and both in official and
private life he then stood untainted and free from
blemish. As a man, in active benevolence, social
rirtues and all the amiable qualities of neighbor or
citizen, he had few superiors. His messages present
a perspicuous array of facts as to the condition of the
State, and are often couched in forcible and elegant
diction.

The greatest excitement during his term of office
was the repeal of the Missouri Compromise, by Con-

gress, under the leadership of Stephen A. Douglas in
1854, when the bill was passed organizing the Terri-
tory of Kansas and Nebraska. A large portion of
the Whig party of the North, through their bitter op-
position to the Democratic party, naturally drifted
into the doctrine of anti-slavery, and thus led to what
was temporarily called the '"Anti-Nebraska" party,
while the followers of Douglas were known as " Ne-
braska or Douglas Democrats." It was during this
embryo stage of the Republican party that Abraham
lyincoln was brought forward as the "Anti-Nebraska "
candidate for the United States Senatorship, while
Gen. James Shields, the incumbent, was re-nom-
inated by the Democrats. But after a few ballotings
in the Legislature (1855), these men were dropped,
and Lyman Trumbull, an Anti-Nebraska Democrat,
was brought up by the former, and Mr. Matteson,
then Governor, by the latter. On the nth ballot
Mr. Trumbull obtained one majority, and was ac-
cordingly declared elected. Before Gov. Matteson 's
term expired, the Republicans were fully organized
as a national party, and in 1856 put into the field a
full national and State ticket, carrying the State, but
not the nation."

The Legislature of 1855 passed two very import-
ant measures, — the present free-school system and a
submission of the Maine liquor law to a vote of the
people. The latter was defeated by a small majority
of the popular vote.

During the four years of Gov. ISL-itteson's admin-
istration the taxable wealth of the State was about
trebled, from $137,818,079 to $349,951,272; the pub-
lic debt was reduced from $17,398,985 to $12,843,-
144; taxation was at the same time reduced, and the
State resumed paying interest on its debt in New
York as fast as it fell due ; railroads were increased
in their mileage from something less than 400 to
about 3,000 ; and the population of Chicago was
nearly doubled, and its commerce more than quad-
rupled.

Before closing this account, we regret that we have
to say that Mr. Matteson, in all other respects an
upright man and a good Governor, was implicated
in a false re-issue of redeemed canal scrip, amount-
ing to $224,182.66. By a suit in the Sangamon Cir-
cuit Court the State recovered the principal and all
the interest excepting $27,500.

He died in the winter of 1872-3, at Chicago.

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

151

■^^£.'

r^'-:-/

ig ILLIAM H. BISSELL, Gov-
iiV'~ ernor 1857-60, was born
■«? April 25, iSii, in the
State of New York, near
Painted Post, Yates County.
His parents were obscure,
honest, God-fearing people,
who reared their children under the daily
example of industry and frugality, accord-
ing to the custom of that class of Eastern
society. Mr. Bissell received a respecta-
ble but not thorough academical education.
By assiduous application he acquired a
knowledge of medicine, and in his early
""^^^ manhood came West and located in Mon-
roe County, this State, where he engaged in the
practice of that profession. But he was not enam-
ored of his calling; he was swayed by a broader
ambition, to such an extent that the mysteries of the
healing art and its arduous duties failed to yield him
further any charms. In a few years he discovered
his choice of a profession to be a mistake, and when
he approached the age of 30 he sought to begin
anew. Dr. Bissell, no doubt unexpectedly to him-
self, discovered a singular facility and charm of
speech, the exercise of which accpiired for him a
ready local notoriety. It soon came to be under-

stood that he desired to abandon his profession and
take up that of the law. During terms of Court he
would spend his time at the county seat among the
members of the Bar, who extended to him a ready
welcome.

It was not strange, therefore, that he should drift
into public life. In 1840 he was elected as a Dem-
ocrat to the Legislature from Monroe County, and
was an efficient member of that body. On his re-
turn home he qualified himself for admission to the
Bar and speedily rose to the front rank as an advo-
cate. His powers of oratory were captivating. With a
pure diction, charming and inimitable gestures,
clearness of statement, and a remarkable vein of sly
humor, his efforts before a jury told with irresistible
effect. He was chosen by the Legislature Prosecut-
ing Attorney for the Circuit in which he lived, and
in that position he fully discharged his duty to the
State, gained the esteem of the Bar, and seldom
failed to convict the offender of the law.

In stature he was somewhat tall and slender, and
with a straight, military bearing, he presented a dis-
tinguished appearance. His complexion was dark,
his head well poised, though not large, his address
pleasant and manner winning. He was exemplary
in his habits, a' devoted husband and kind parent.
He was twice married, the first time to Miss James,

'52

WILLIAM H. BISSELL.

of Monroe County, by whom he had two children,
bot.h daughters. She died soon after the year 1840,
and Mr. B. married for his second wife a daughter
of EUas K. Kane, previously a United States Senator
from this State. She survived hirti but a short time,
and died without issue.

When the war with Mexico was declared in 1846,
Mr. Bissell enlisted and was elected Colonel of his
regiment, over Hon. Don « Morrison, by an almost
unanimous vote, — 807 to 6. Considering the limited
opportunities he had had, he evinced a high order of
military talent. On the bloody field of Buena Vista
he acquitted himself with intrepid and distinguished
ability, contributing with his regiment, the Second
Illinois, in no small degree toward saving the waver-
ing fortunes of our arms during that long and fiercely
contested battle.

After his return home, at the close of the war, he
was elected to Congress, his opponents being the
Hons. P. B. Fouke and Joseph Gillespie. He served
two terms in Congress. He was an ardent politician.
During the great contest of 1850 he voted in favor
of the adjustment measures; but in 1854 he opposed
the repeal of the Missouri Compromise act and
therefore the Kansas-Nebraska bill of Douglas, and
thus became identified with the nascent Republican
party.

During his first Congressional terra, while the
Southern members were following their old practice
of intimidating the North by bullying language,
and claiming most of the credit for victories in the
Mexican War, and Jefferson Davis claiming for the
Mississippi troops all the credit for success at Buena
Vista, Mr. Bissell bravely defended the Northern
troops ; whereupon Davis challenged Bissell to a duel,
which was accepted. This matter was brought u|j
against Bissell when he was candidate for Governor
and during his term of office, as the Constitution of
this State forbade any duelist from holding a State
office.

In rS56, when the Republican party first put forth
a candidate, John C. Fremont, for President of the
United States, the same party nominated Mr. Bissell
for Governor of Illinois, and John Wood, of Quincy,
for Lieutenant Governor, while the Democrats nomi-
nated Hon. W. .\. Richardson, of Adams County,
for Governor, and t'ol. R. J. Hamilton, of Cook
Countv. f'!-- Lieutenant Governor The result of the

election was a plurality of 4,729 votes over Richard-
son. The American, or Know-Nothing, party had a
ticket in the field. The Legislature was nearly bal-
anced, but was politically opposed to the Governor.
His message to the Legislature was short and rather
ordinary, and was criticised for expressing the sup-
posed obligations of the people to the incorporators
of the Illinois Central Railroad Company and for re-
opening the slavery question by allusions to the
Kansas troubles. Late in the session an apportion-
ment bill, based upon the State census of 1S55, was
passed, amid much partisan strife. The Governor
at first signed the bill and then vetoed it. A furious
debate followed, and the question whether the Gov-
ernor had the authority to recall a signature was
referred to the Courts, that of last resort deciding in
favor of the Governor. Two years afterward another
outrageous attempt was made for a re-apportionment
and to gerrymander the State, but the Legislature
failed to pass the bill over the veto of the Governor.

It was during Gov. Bissell's administration tliat
the notorious canal scrip fraud was brought to light,
'mplicating ex-Gov. Matteson and other prominent
State officials. The principal and interest, aggregat-
ing $255,500, was all recovered by the State except-
ing $27,500. (See sketch of Gov. Matteson.)

In 1859 an attempt was discovered to fraudu-
lently refund the Macalister and Stebbins bonds and
thus rob the State Treasury of nearly a quarter of a
million dollars. The State Government was impli-
cated in this affair, and to this day remains unex-
plained or unatoned for. For the above, and other
matters previously mentioned. Gov. Bissell has been
severely criticised, and he has also been most shame-
fully libelled and slandered.

On account of exposure in the army, the remote
cause of a nervous form of disease gained entrance
into his system and eventually developed paraplegia,
affecting his lower extremities, which, while it left
his body in comparative health, deprived him of loco-
motion except by the aid of crutches. While he was
generally hopeful of ultimate recovery, this myste-
rious disease pursued him, without once relaxing its
stealthy hold, to the close of his life, March 18,
i860, over nine months before the expiration of his
gubernatorial term, at the early age of 4S years. He
died in the faith of the Roman Catholic Church. 0/
which he haf* been a member since 1854.

■ffl

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'55

CS1

10 ten

■■■s-^

« >5:] ' ca »-

.^:()HN WOOD, Governor 1860-1, and
E^ the first settler of Quincy, 111.,
was born in the town of Setnpro-
nius (now Moravia), Cayuga Co.,
N. Y., Dec. 20, 1798. He was
the second child and only son of
Dr. Daniel Wood. His mother,
nee Catherine Crause, was of
German parentage, and died
while he was an infant. Dr.
Wood was a learned and skillful
physician, of classical attain-
ments and proficient in several
"^ ■; modern lai.guages, who, after

"V-^'i" serving throughout the Revolu-

tionary War as a Surgeon, settled on the land granted
him by the Government, and resided there a re-
spected and leading influence in his section until his
death, at the ripe age of 92 years.

The subject of this sketch, impelled by the spirit
of Western adventure then pervading everywhere,
left his home, Nov. 2, 1818, and passed the succeed-
mg winter in Cincinnati, Ohio. The following sum-
mer he pushed on to Illinois, landing at Shawneetown,
and spent the fall and following winter in Calhoun
County. In 1820, in company with Willard Keyes,
he settled in Pike County, about 30 miles southeast
of Quincy, where for the next two years he pursued
farming. In i82r he visited "the Bluffs" (as the
present site of Quincy was called, then uninhabited)
and, pleased with its prospects, soon after purchased
a quarter-section of land near by, and in the follow-
ing fall (1822) erected near the river a small cabin,

rS X 20 feet, the first building ia Quincy, of whitl
he then became the first and for some months tlic
only occupant.

About this time he visited his old friends in Pike
County, chief of whom was William Ross, the lead ■
ing man in building up the village of Atlas, of that
county, which was thought then to be the possible
commencement of a city. One day they and others
were traveling together over the country between the
two points named, making observations on the com-
parative merits of the respective localities. On ap-
proaching the Mississippi near Mr. Wood's place,
the latter told his companions to follow him and he
would show them where he was going to build a city.
They went about a mile off the main trail, to a high
point, from which the view in every direction was
most magnificent, as it had been for ages and as ye.
untouched by the hand of man. Before them swept
by the maje=itic Father of VVaters, yet unburdened by
navigation. After Mr. Wood had expatiated at
length on the advantages of the situation, Mr. Ross
replied, " But it's too near .-^tlas ever to amount to
anything! "

Atlas is still a cultivated farm, and Quincy is .•>
city of over 30,000 population.

In 1824 Mr. Wood gave a newspaper notice,
as the law then prescribed, of his intention to apply
to the General Assembly for the formation of a new
county. This was done the following winter, result-
ing in the establishment of the present Adams
County. During tiie next summer Quiiiry was se-
lected as the county seat, it and the vicinity then
containing but four adult male residents and half

'50

rOHN WOOD.

lliat number of females. Sinoe that period Mr.
Wood resided at the place of his early adoption un-
lil his death, and far more than any other man was
he identified with every measure of its progress and
history, and almost continuously kept in public posi-
tions.

He was one of the early town Trustees, and after
the place became a city he was often a member of
the City Council, many times elected Mayor, in the
^ace of a constant large opposition political majority.
In 1850 he was elected to the Stale Senate. In 1S56,
on the organization of the Republican party, he was
chosen Lieutenant Governor of the State, on the
ticket with Wm. H. Bissell for Governor, and on the
death of the latter, March 18, i860, he succeeded to
the Chief Executive chair, which he occupied until
Gov. Yates was inaugurated nearly ten months after-
ward.

Nothing very marked characterized the adminis-
tration of Gov. Wood. The great anti-slavery cam-
paign of i860, resulting in the election of the honest
lUinoisan, Abraham Lincoln, to the Presidency of the
United States, occurred during the short period
while Mr. Wood was Governor, and the excitement
and issues of that struggle dominated over every
other consideration, — indeed, supplanted them in a
great measure. The people of Illinois, during all
that time, were passing the comparatively petty strifes
under Bissell's administration to the overwhelming
issue of preserving the whole nacion from destruction.
In 186 1 ex-Gov. Wood was one of tlie five Dele-
gates from Illinois to the " Peace Convention " at
Washingtoii, and in April of the same year, on the
breaking out of the Rebellion, he was appointed

Quartermaster-General of the State, which position
he held throughout the war. In 1864 he took com-
mand as Colonel of the 137th 111. Vol. Inf, with
whom he served until the period of enlistment ex-
pired.

Politically, Gov. Wood was always actively identi-
fied with the Whig and Republican parties. Few
men have in personal experience comprehended so
many surprising and advancing local changes as
vested in the more than half century recollections of
Gov. Wood. Sixty-four years ago a solitary settler
on the "Bluffs," with no family, and no neighbor
within a score of miles, the world of civilization away
behind him, and the strolling red-man almost his
only visitant, he lived to see grjwing around him,
and under his auspices and aid, overspreading the
wild hills and scraggy forest a teaming city, second
only in size in the State, and surpassed nowhere in
beauty, prosperity and promise; whose people recog-
nize as with a single voice the proverbial honor and
liberality that attach to the name and lengthened
life of their pioneer settler, "the old Governor."

Gov. Wood was twice married, — first in January,
1826, to Ann M. Streeter, daughter of Joshua Streeter,
formerly of Salem, Washington Co., N. Y. They had
eight children. Mrs. W. died Oct. 8, 1863, and in
June, 1S65, Gov. Wood married Mrs. Mary A., widow
of Rev. Joseph T. Holmes. Gov. Wood died June 4,
1 880, at his residence in Quincy. Four of his eight
children are now living, namely: Ann E., wife of
Gen. John Tillson; Daniel C, who married Mary J.
Abernethy; John, Jr., who married Josephine Skinner,
and Joshua S., who married Annie Bradley. The
last mentioned now resides at Atciiison, Kansas, and
all the rest are still at Quincy.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

159

alAA:5I?y?'i^^ ■• \- \ S.-^ AA :• V U VA V-V A ■■ V- >\ y.^ A. \.A*,^ A -v

'Richard yates, the "War

^ ■' Governor,' 186 1-4, was born
=>f Jan. 18, 18 18, on the banks of
\ the Ohio River, at Warsaw,
■> Gallatin Co., Ky. His father
^ moved in 1831 to Illinois, and
after stopping for a time in
Springfield, settled at Island
Grove, Sangamon County . Here,
after attending school, Richard joined
the family. Subsequently he entered
Illinois College at Jacksonville,
where, in 1837, he graduated with
first honors. He chose for his pro-
tession the law, the Hon. J. J. Har-
din being his instructor. After ad-
mission to the Bar he soon rose to distinction as an
advocate.

Gifted with a fluent and ready oratory, he soon
appeared in tlie political hustings, and, being a
passionate admirer of the great Whig leader of the
West. Henry (^lay, he joined his political fortunes to
he party of his idol. In r 840 he engaged with great
'vdor in the exciting "hard cider" campaign for
r^arrison. Two years later he was elected to the
Legislature from Morgan County, a Democratic
stronghold. He served three or four terms in the
Legislature, and such was the fascination of his ora-
•rythat by 1850 his large Congressional District,
trtending from Morgan and Sangamon Counties
. orth to include LaSalle, unanimously tendered him
tne Whig nomination for Congress. His Democratic
opponent was Maj. Tliomas L. Harris, a very pop-
ular man who had won distinction at the batde of
'irro Gordo, in the Mexican War, and who had
beaten Hon. Stephen T. Logan for the same position.

I two years before, by a large majority. Yates wa."
1 elected. Two years later he was re-elected, over
John Calhoun.

It was during Yates second term in Congress that
the great question of the repeal of the Missouri Com-
promise was agitated, and the bars laid down for re-
opening the dreaded anti-slavery question. He took
strong grounds against the repeal, and thus becaiiie
identified with the rising Republican party. Conse-
quently he fell into the minority in his district, which
was pro-slavery. Even then, in a third contest, he
fell behind Major 'Harris only ;?oo votes, after the
district had two years before given Pierce 2,000
majority for President.

The Republican State Convention of i860 met at
Decatur May 9, and nominated for the office of Gov-
ernor Mr. Yates, in preference to Hon. Norman B.
Judd, of Chicago, and Leonard Swett, of Blooming-
ton, two of the ablest men of the State, who were
also candidates before the Convention. Francis A.
Hoffman, of DuPage County, was nominated for
Lieutenant Governor. This was the year when Mr.
Lincoln was a candidate for President, a period re-
membered as characterized by the great whidpool
which precipitated the bloody War of the Rebellion.
The Douglas Democrats nominated J. C. Allen of
Crawford County, for Governor, and Lewis W. Ross,
of Fulton County, for Lieutenant Governor. The
Breckenridge Democrats and the Bell-Everett party
had also full tickets in the field. After a most fear-
ful campaign, the result of the election gave Mr.
Yates 172,196 votes, and Mr. Allen 159,253. Mr.
Yates received over a thousand more votes than did
Mr. Lincoln himself.
Gov. Yates occupied the chair of State during the

i6o

RICHARD YATES.

most critical period of our country's history. In the
fate of the nation was involved that of each State.
The life struggle of llie former derived its sustenance
from the loyalty of the latter; and Gov. Yates
seemed to realize the situation, and proved himself
both loyal and wise in iiiDholding the Government.
He had a deep hold upon the affections of tlie
people, won by his moving eloquence and genial
manners. Erect and symmetrical in person, of pre-
possessing appearance, with a winning address and a
magnetic power, few men possessed more of the ele-
ments of popularity. His oratory was scholarly and
captivating, his hearers hardly knowing why they
were transported. He was social and convivial. In
the latter respect he was ultimately carried too far.

The ver)' creditable military efforts of this State
during the War of the Rebellion, in putting into the
field the enormous number of about 200,000 soldiers,
were ever promptly and ably seconded by his excel-
lency ; and the was ambitious to deserve the title of
"the soldier's friend." Immediately after the battle of
Shiloh he repaired to the field of carnage to look
after the wounded, and his appeals for aid were
promptly responded to by the people. His procla-
mations calling for volunteers were impassionate
appeals, urging upon the people the duties and re-
quirements of patriotism; and his special message
ill 1863 to the Democratic Legislature of this State
pleading for material aid for the sick and wounded
soldiers of Illinois regiments, breathes a deep fervor
of noble sentiment and feeling rarely equaled in
beauty or felicity of expression. Generally his mes-
sages on political and civil affiiirs were able and com-
prehensive. During his administration, however,
there were no civil events of an engrossing character,
although two years of his time were replete with
partisan quarrels of great bitterness. Military ar-
rests, Knights of the Golden Circle, riot in Fulton
County, attempted suppression of the Chicago Times
and the usurping State Constitutional Convention of
I S62, were the chief local topics that were exciting
during the Governor's term. This Convention assem-
bled Jan. 7, and at once tooic the high position that
"he law calling it was no longer binding, and that it
ad supreme power; that it represented a virtual
assemblage of the whole people of the State, and was
sovereign in the exercise of all power necessary to
effect a peaceable revolution of the State Government

and to the re-establishment of one for the "happiness
prosperity and freedom of the citizens," limited only
by the Federal Con-.titution. Notwithstanding the
law calling the Convention required its members to
take an oath to support the Constitution of the State
as well as that of the general Government, they
utterly refused to take such oath. They also as-
sumed legislative powers and passed several import-
ant "laws!" Interfering with the (then) present
executive duties. Gov. Yates was provoked to tell
them plainly that " he did not acknowledge the right
of the Convention to instruct him in the performance
of his duty."

In 1863 the Governor astonished the Democrats
by " proroguing " their Legislature. This body, after
a recess, met Joine 2, that year, and soon began to
waste time upon various partisan resolutions ; and,
while the two houses were disagreeing upon the
question oi sidpuwimg siiie die, the Governor, having
the authority in such cases, surprised them all by
adjourning them " to the Saturday next preceding the
first Monday in January, 1865 ! " This led to great
excitement and confusion, and to a reference of the
Governor's act to the Supreme Court, who decided in
his favor. Then it was the Court's turn to receive
abuse for weeks and months afterward.

During the autumn of T864 a conspiracy was de-
tected at Chicago which had for its object the liber-
ation of the prisoners of war at Camp Douglas, the
burning of the city and the inauguration of rebellion
in the North. Gen. Sweet, who had charge of the
camp at the time, first had his suspicions of danger
aroused by a number of enigmatically worded letters
which passed through the Camp postoffice. W de-
tective afterward discovered that the rebel Gen.
Marmaduke was in the city, under an assumed
name, and he, with other rebel officers — Grenfell,
Morgan, Cantrell, Buckner Morris, and Charles
Walsh — was arrested, most of whom were convicted
by a court-martial at Cincinnati and sentenced to
imprisonment, — Grenfell to be hung. The sentence
of the latter was afterward commuted to imprison-
ment for life, and all the others, after nine months'
imprisonment, were pardoned.

In March, 1873, Gov. Yates was appointed a Gov-
ernment Director of the Union Pacific Railroad, in
which office he continued until his decease, at St.
Louis, Mo., on the 27th of November following.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

163

-^^■

Mickard J. Oglesby

-4^=

->l3.

=^|%?HUCHARD J. OGLESBY, Gov-
ernor 1865-8, and re-electtd
in 1872 and 18S4, was born
July 25, 1824, in Oldliam Co.,
Ky., — the State wiiich might
be considered the " mother of
Illinois Governors." Bereft of
'-' his parents at the tender age
of eight years, his early education
was neglected. When 12 years of
age, and after he had worked a year
and a half at the carpenter's trade,
he removed with an uncle, Willis
Oglesby, into whose care he had
been committed, to Decatur, this
State, where he continued his ap-
prenticeship as a mechanic, working six months for
Hon. E. O. Smith.

In 1844 he commenced studying law at Spring-
field, with Judge Silas Robbins, and read with him
one year. He was admitted to the Bar in 1845, and
commenced the practice of his chosen profession at
Sullivan, the county seat of Moultrie County.

The next year the war with Mexico was com-
menced, and in June, 1846, Mr. Oglesby volunteered,
was elected First Lieutenant of Co. C, Fourth Illinois
Regiment of Volunteers, and participated in the bat-
tles of Vera Ciuz and Cerro Gordo.

On his return he sought to perfect his law studies
by attending a course of lectures at Louisville, but
on the breaking out of the California "gold fever " in
1849, he crossed the plains and mountains to the
new Eldorado, driving a six-mule team, with a com-

pany of eight men, Henry Prather being tlie leader.

In 1852 he returned home to Macon County, and
was placed that year by the Whig party on the ticke:
of Presidential Electors. In 1856 he visited Europe,
x\sia and Africa, being absent 20 months. On his
return home he resumed the practice of law, as a
member of the firm of Gallagher, Wait & Oglesby.
In 1858 he was the Republican nominee for the
Lower House of Congress, but was defeated by the
Hon. James C. Robinson, Democrat. In i860 lie
was elected to the Illinois State Senate ; and on the
evening the returns of this election were coming in,
Mr. Oglesby had a fisticuff encounter with " Cerro
Gordo Williams," in which he came out victorious,
and which was regarded as " the first fight of the
Rebellion." The following spring, when the war
had commenced in earnest, his ardent nature
quickly responded to the demands of patriotism and
he enlisted. The extra session of the Legislature
elected him Colonel of the Eighth Illinois Infantry,
the second one in the State raised to suppress the
great Rebellion.

He WIS shortly entrusted with important com-
mands. For a time he vvas stationed at Bird's Point
and Cairo; in April he vvas promoted Brigadier Gen-
eral ; at Fort Donelson his brigade was in the van,
being stationed on the right of General Grant's army
and the first brigade to be attacked. He lost 500
men before re-inforcements arrived. Many of these
men were from Macon County. He was engaged i:i
the battle of Corinth, and, in a brave charge at this
place, was shot in the left lung with an ounce ball,
and was carried from the field in expectation of im-

164

RICHARD J. OGLESBY.

mediate deith. That rebel ball he carries to thii
day. 0;i his partial recovery he was promoted as
•Major Ge leril, for g ilLiiitry, his comaiissioa to rank
from November, 1862. In the spring of 1863 he
was assigned to the command of the i6th Army
Corps, but, owing to inability fro. 11 the effects of his
wound, he relinquished this command in July, that
year. Gen. Grant, however, refused to accept his
resignation, and he was detailed, in December folio iv-
ing, to court-martial and try the Surgeon General of
the Army at Washington, where he remained until
May, 1864, whsn he returned home.

The Republican, or Union, State Convention of
1S64 was held at Springfield, May 25, when Mr.
Oglesby was nominated for the office of Governor,
while other candidates before the Convention were
Allen C. Fuller, of Boone, Jesse K. Dubois, of Sanga-
mon, and John M. Palmer, of Macoupin. Wm.
Bross, of Chicago, was nominated for Lieutenant
Governor. On the Democratic State ticket were
James C. Robinson, of Clark, for Governor, and S.
Corning Judd, of Fulton, for Lieutenant Governor.
The general election gav,; Gen. Oglesby a majority
of about 31,000 votes. The Republicans had also a
majority in both tlii Legislature and in the repre-
sentation \n Congress.

Gov. Oglesby was duly inaugurated Jan. 17, 1865.
The day before the first time set for his installation
death visited his home at Decatur, and look from it
his only son, an intelligent and sprightly lad of si.'c
years, a great favorite of the bereaved parents. This
caused the inauguration to be postponed a week.

The political events of the Legislative session of
1865 were the election of ex-Gov. Yates to the
United States Senate, and the ratification of the 13th
amend.nent to the Constitution of the United States,
abolishing slavery. This session also signalized
itself by repealing the notorious " black laws," pari
of which, although a dead letter, had held their place
upon the statute books since 1819. Also, laws re-
quiring the registration of voters, and establishing a
State Board of Equalization, were passed by this Leg-
islature. But the same body evinced that it was cor-
ruptly influenced by a mercenary lobby, as it adopted
some bad legislation, over the Governor's veto, nota-
bly an amendment to a charter for a Chicago horse
railway, granted in 1859 for 25 years, and now
sought to be e.xtended 99 years. As this measure
was promptly passed over his veto by both branches
of the Legislature, he deemed it useless further to
attempt to check their headlong career. At this
session no law of a general useful character or public
interest was perfected, unless we count such the
turning over of the canal to Chicago to be deepened.
The session of 1867 was still more productive of
private and special acts. Many omnibus bills were
prof^-sed, and some passed. Tiie contests over the
.ocation of the Industrial College, the Capital, the

Soutliern Penitentiary, and the canal enlargement
and Illinois River improvement, dominated every-
thing else.

During the year 1S72, it became evident tliat i(
the Republicans could re-elect Mr. Oglesby to the
office of Governor, they could also elect him to the
United States Senate, which they desired to do.
Accordingly they re-nominated him for the Execu-
tive chair, and placed upon the ticket with him for
Lieutenant Governor, John L Bjveridge, of Cook
County. On the other side the Democrats put, into
the field Gustavus Koerner for Governor and John
C. Black for Lieutenant Governor. The election
gave the Republican ticket majorities ranging from
35,334 to 56,174, — ihe Democratic defection being
caused mainly liy their h iving an old-time Whig and
Abolitionist, Horace Greeley, on the national ticket
for President. According to the general understand-
ing had beforehand, as soon as the Legislature :iiet
it elected Gov. Oglesby to the United States Senate,
whereupon Mr. Beveridge became Governor. Sena-
tor Oglesby 's term expired March 4, 1879, having
served his parly faithfully and exhibited an order of
statesmanship beyond criticism.

During the campaign of 1884 Mr. Oglesby was
nominated for a "third term" as Executive of the
State of Illinois, against Carter H. Harrison, Mayor
of Chicago, nominated by the Democrats. Both
gentlemen "stumped " the State, and while the peo-
]5le elected a Legislature which was a tie on a jjint
ballot, as between the two parties, they gave the
jovial " Dick" Oglesby a majority of 15,018 for Gov-
ernor, and he was inaugurated Jan. 30, 1885. The
Legislature did not fully organize until this date, on
account of its equal division between the two main
parlies and the consequent desperate tactics of each
parly to checkmate the latter in the organization of
the House.

Gov. Oglesby is a fine-appearing, affable man, with
regular, well defined features and rotund face. In
stature he is a little above medium height, of a large
frame and somewhat fleshy. His physical appear-
ance is striking and prepossessing, while his straight-
out, not to say bluff, manner and speech are well
calculated favorably to impress the average masses.
.Ardent in feeling and strongly committed to the pol-
icies of his party, he intensifies Republicanism
among Republicans, while at the same time his iovial
and liberal manner prevents those of the opposite
party from hating him.

He is quite an effective stump orator. With vehe-
ment, passionate and scornful tone and gestures,
tremendous physical power, which in speaking he
exercises to the utmost; with frequent descents to
tlie grotesque; and with abundant homely compari-
sons or frontier figures, expressed in the broadest
vernacular and enforced with stentorian emphasis,
he delights a promiscuous audience beyond measure.

&,.-^^^6^—

GO VER IVORS OF ILLTN^OIS.

I .7

J HN 1£ Pa L 31 ER

! 1 w^^^iii^^i^^}j^^2l^fii^^^^^^m^^:^^^AMsM^^ML^^^^^^^M^

'c:s':'\\

i|f»« ernor

3;OHN Mc AULEY PALMER, Gov-
[869-72, was born on
Engle Creek, Scott Co., Ky.,
.■£'''-'' WH ~V Sept. 13, 1817. During his in-
•54gio''^'4j^JO^- .il.>5* fancy, his father, who had been
a soldier in the war of 1S12, re-
moved to Christian Co., Ky.,
wliere lands were cheap. Here
the future Governor of the great
Prairie State spent his childhood
and received such meager school-
ing as the new and sparsely set-
tled country afforded. To this
he added materially by diligent
reading, for which he evinced an
His father, an ardent Jackson man,
was also noted for his anti-slavery sentiments, which
he thoroughly impressed upon his children. In 183 1
he emigrated to Illinois, settling in Madison County.
Here the labor of improving a farm was pursued for
about two years, when the death of Mr. Palmer's
mother broke up the family. About this time Alton
College was opened, on the "manual labor " system,
and in the spring of 1S34 young Palmer, with his
elder brother, Elihu, entered this school and remained
18 months. Next, for over three years, he tried
variously coopering, peddling and school-teaching.

During the summer of 1838 he formed the ac-
quaintance of Sle|)hen A. Douglxs, then making his

eaily aptitude.

first canvass for Congress. Young, eloquent and in
political accord with Mr. Palmer, he won his confi-
dence, fired his ambition and fixed his purpose. The
following winter, while teaching near Canton, he be-
gan to devote his spare time to a desultory reading
of law, and in the spring entered a law office at Car-
iinville, making his home with his elder brother,
Elihu. (The latter was a learned clergyman, of con-
siderable orginality of thought and doctrine.) On
the next meeting of the Supreme Court he was ad-
mitted to the Bar, Douglas being one of his examiners.
He was not immediately successful in his profession,
and would have located elsewhere than Cariinville
had he the requisite means. Thus his early poverty
was a blessing in disguise, for to it he now attributes
the success of his life.

From 1839 on, wliile he diligently pursued his
profession, he participated more or less in local
politics. In 1843 he became Probate Judge. In
1 847 he was elected to the State Constitutional Con.
vention, where he took a leading part. In 1S52 ht
was elected to the State Senate, and at the special
session of February, 1854, true to the anti-slaverj
sentiments bred in him, he took a firm stand in op-
position to the repeal of the Missouri Compromise,
and when the Nebraska question became a partj
issue he refused to receive a re-nomination for tht
Senatorship at the hands of the Democracy, issuinj,
a circular to tliat effect. A few weeks afterward

i68

JOHN MC AULEY PALMER.

however, hesitating to break with his party, he par-
ticipated in a Congressional Convention which nomi-
T. L. Harris against Richard Yates, and which
unqualifiedly approved the principles of the Kansas-
Nebraska act. But later in the campaign he made
the plunge, ran for the Senate as an Anti-Nebraska
Democrat, and was elected. The following winter
he put in nomination for the , United States Senate
Mr. Trumbull, and was one of the five steadfast men
who voted for him until all the Whigs came to their
support and elected their man.

In 1856 he was Chairman of the Republican State
Convention at Bloomington. He ran for Congress in
1859, but was defeated. In i860 he was Republican
Presidential Elector for the State at large. In 1861
he was appointed one of the five Delegates (all Re-
publicans) sent by Illinois to the peace congress at
Washington.

When the civil conflict broke out, he offered his
services to his country, and was elected Colonel of the
14th 111. Vol. Inf., and participated in the engagements
at Island No. lo ; at Farmington, where he skillfully
extricated his command from a dangerous position ;
ai Stone River, where his division for several hours,
Dec. 31, 1862, held the advance and stood like a
rock, and for his gallantry there he was made Major
General; at Chickamauga, where his and Van Cleve's
divisions for two hours maintained their position
when they were cut off by overpowering numbers
Under Gen. Sherman, he was assigned to the 14th
Army Corps and participated in the Atlanta campaign.
At Peach-Tree Creek his prudence did much to avert
disaster. In February, 1865, Gen. Palmer was as-
signed to the military administration of Kentucky,
which was a delicate post. That State was about
half rebel and half Union, and those of the latter
element were daily fretted by the loss of their slaves.
He, who had been bred to the rules of common law,
trembled at the contemplation of his extraordinary
power over the persons and property of his fellow
men, with wliich he was vested in his capacity as
military Governor ; and he e.xhibited great caution in
the execution of the duties of his post.

Gen. Palmer was nominated for Governor of Illi-
nois by tiie Republican State Convention which met
at Peori.i May 6, 1868, and his nomination would
probably liave been made by acclamation had lie not
oersistenily declared that he could not accei)t a can-

didature for the office. The result of the ensuing
election gave Mr. Palmer a majority of 44,707 over
John R. Eden, the Democratic nominee.

Oil the meeting of the Legislature in January,
1869, the first thing to arrest public attention was
that portion of the Governor's message which took
broad Slate's rights ground. This and some minor
points, which were more in keeping with the Demo-
cratic sentiment, constituted the entering wedge fur
the criticisms and reproofs he afterward received
from the Republican party, and ultimately resulted
in his entire aleniation from the latter element. The
Legislature just referred to was noted for the intro-
duction of numerous bills in the interest of private
parties, which were embarrassing to the Governor.
Among the public acts passed was that which hmited
railroad charges for passenger travel to a maximum
of three cents per mile ; and it was passed over the
Governor's veto. Also, they passed, over his veto,
the "tax-grabbing law" to pay r^.ilror.:i subscriptions,
the Chicago Lake Front bill, etc. The new State
Constitution of 1870, far superior to the old, was a
peaceful " revolution" which took place during Gov.
Palmer's term of office. The suffering caused by the
great Chicago Fire of October, 187 1, was greatly
alleviated by the prompt responses of his excellency.

Since the expiration of Gov. Palmers 's term, he has
been somewhat prominent in Illinois politics, and
has been talked of by many, especially in the Dem-
ocratic party, as the best man in the State for a
United States Senator. His business during life has
been that of the law. Few excel him in an accurate
appreciation of the depth and scope of its principles-
The great number of his able veto messages abun-
dantly testify not only this but also a rare capacity to
point them out. He is a logical and cogent reasoner
and an interesting, forcible and convincing speaker,
though not fluent or ornate. Without brilliancy, his
dealings are rather with facts and ideas than with
appeals to passions and prejudices. He is a patriot
and a statesman of very high order. Physically he is
above the medium height, of robust frame, ruddy
complexion and sanguine-nervous temperament. He
has a large cranial development, is vivacious, social
in disposition, easy of approach, unostentatious in his
habits of life, democratic in his habits and manners
and is a true .\merican in his fundamental principle'
of statesmanship.

CT^^^i^i^gL.^ / A-e^l^C^)^-uUe^

L?i.' VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

171

OHN LOWRiE BEVER-
IDGE, Governor 1873-6, was
born in the town of Greeii-
wu:h, Washington Co., N. Y.,
July 6, 1824. His parents
were George and Ann Bever-
idge. His father's parents, An-
drew and Isabel Beveridge, be-
fore their marriage emigrated
from Scotland just before the
Revolutionary War, settling in
Washington County. His father
was the eldest of eight brotliers, the
youngest of whom was 60 years of
age when the first one of the num-
ber died. His mother's parents,
James and Agnes Hoy, emigrated
from Scotland at the close of the
Revolutionary War, settling also in
j" Washington Co., N. Y., with their
first-born, whose " native land "was
the wild ocean. His parents and
grandparents lived beyond the time
allotted to tnan, their average age
being over 80 years. They belonged to the " Asso-
ciate Church," a seceding Presbyterian body of

America from the old Scotch school; and so rigid
was the training of young Beveridge that he never
heard a sermon from any other minister except that
of his own denomination until he was in his 19th
year. Later in life he became a member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, which relation he still
holds.

Mr. Beveridge received a good common-school ed-
ucation, but his parents, who could obtain a livelihood
only by rigid economy and industry, could not send
him away to college. He was raised upon a farm,
and was in his 18th year when the family removed
to De Kalb County, this State, when that section was
very sparsely settled. Chicago had less than 7,000
inhabitants. In this wild West he continued as a
farm laborer, teaching school during the winter
months to supply the means of an education. In the
fall of 1842 he attended one term at the academy at
Granville, Putnam Co., 111., and subsequently several
terms at the Rock River Seminary at Mount Morris,
Ogle Co., 111., completing the academic course. At
this time, the fall of 1845, '''•^ parents and brothers
were anxious to have him go to college, even though
he had not inoney sufficient; but, n^t willing to bur-
den the family, he packed his trunk and with only
$40 in money started South to seek his fortune.

J72

JOHN L. BEVERIDGE.

Poor, alone, wiihout friends and influence, lie thus
entered upon the battle of life.

First, he taught school in Wilson, Overton and
Jackson Cos., Tenn., in which experience he under-
went considerable mental drill, both in book, studies
and in the ways of the world. He read law and was
admitted to the Bar, in the South, but did not learn
to love the institution of slavery, although he ad-
mired many features of Southern character. In De-
cemlier, 1S47, he returned North, and Jan. 20, 1848,
he married Miss Helen M. Judson, in the old Clark-
Sireet M. E. church in Chicago, her father at that
time being Pastor of the society there. In the spring
of 1848 he returned with his wife to Tennessee,
where his two children. Alia May and Philo Judson,
were born.

In the fall of 1S49, through the mismanagement
of an associate, he lost what litde he had accumu-
lated and was left in debt. He soon managed to
earn means to pay his debts, returned to De Kalb
Co., 111., and entered upon the practice of his pro-
fession at Sycamore, the county seat. On arrival
from the South he had but one-quarter of a dollar in
money, and scanty clothing and bedding for himself
and family. He borrowed a little money, practiced
law, worked in public offices, kept books for some of
the business men of the town, and some railroad en-
gineering, till the spring of 1854, when he removed
to Evanston, 12 miles north of Chicago, a place then
but recently laid out, under the supervision of the
Northwestern University, a Methodist institution.
Of the latter his father-in-law was then financial
agent and business 7nanager. Here Mr. Beveridge
prospered, and the next year (1855) opened a law
office in Chicago, where he found the battle some-
what hard; but he persevered with encouragement
and increasing success.

Aug. 12, 1861, his law partner, Gen. John F,
Farnsworth, secured authority to raise a regiment cf
cavalry, and authorized Mr. Beveridge to raise a
company for it. He succeeded in a few days in rais-
ing the company, of course enlisting himself along
with it. The regiment rendezvoused at St. Charles,
111., was mustered in Sept. tS, and on its organiza-
tion Mr. B. was elected Second Major. It was at-
tached, Oct. II, to the Eighth Cavalry and to the
Army of the Potomac. He served with the regiment
until November, iS6j, participating in some 40 bat-

tles and skirmishes : was at Fair Oaks, the seven days
fight around Richmond, Fredericksburg, Chancellors-
ville and Gettysburg. He commanded the regiment
the greater part of the summer of 1 863, and it was while
lying in camp this year that he originated the policy
of encouraging recruits as well as the fighting capac-
ity of the soldiery, by the wholesale furlough system.
It worked so well that many other officers adopted
it. In the fall of this year he recruited another com-
pany, against heavy odds, in January, 1864, was
commissioned Colonel of the 17th 111. Cav., and
skirmished around in Missouri, concluding with the
reception of the surrender of Gen. Kirby Smith's
army in Arkansas. In 1865 he commanded various
sub-districts in the Southwest. He was mustered
out Feb. 6, 1866, safe from the casualties of war and
a stouter man than when he first enlisted. His men
idolized him.

He then returned to Cliicago, to practice law, with
no library and no clientage, and no political experi-
ence except to help others into office. In the fall of
1866 he was elected Sheriff of Cook County, serving
one term; next, until November, 1870, he practiced
law and closed up the unfinished business of his
office. He was then elected State Senator; in No-
vember, 187 1, he was elected Congressman at large;
in November, 1S72, he was elected Lieutenant Gov-
ernor on the ticket with Gov. Oglesby ; the latter be-
ing elected to the U. S. Senate, Mr. Beveridge became
Governor, Jan. 21, 1873. Thus, inside of a few
weeks, he was Congressman at large. Lieutenant
Governor and Governor. The principal events oc-
curring during Gov. Beveridge 's administration were:
The completion of the revision of the statutes, begun
in 1869; the partial success of the "farmers' move-
ment;" " Haines' Legislature " and Illinois' exhibit at
the Centennial.

Since tlie close of his gubernatorial term ex-Gov
Beveridge has been a member of the firm of Bever-
idge & Dewey, bankers and dealers in commercial
paper at 7 1 Dearborn Street (McCormick Block),
Chicago, and since November, 1 88 r, he has also been
.Assistant United States Treasurer : office in the
Government Building. His residence is still at Ev-
anston.

He has a brother and two sisters yet residing in
De Kalb County — James H. Beveridge, Mrs. Jennet
Henry and Mrs. Isabel French.

GO VERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

•75

8EELB Y 31, VULLOM. -t

— ^

ll^'' HELBY M. CULLOM, Gover-
nor 1877-83,15 the sixth child
of the late Richard N. Cullom,
and was bora Nov. 22, 1829, ia
Wayne Co., Ky., where his fa-
ther tlien resided, and whence
both the Illinois and Tennessee
branches of the family originated. In
the following year the family emi-
grated to the vicinity of Washington,
Tazewell Co., 111., when that section
was very sparsely settled. They lo-
cated on Deer Creek, in a grove at
the time occupied by a party of In-
dians, attracted there by the superior
hunting and fishing afforded in that
vicinity. The following winter was
known as the " hard winter," the snow ^being very
deep and lasting and the weather severely cold; and
the family had to subsist mainly on boiled corn or
hominy, and some wild game, for several weeks. In
the course of time Mr. R. N. Cullom became a prom-
inent citizen and was several times elected to the
Legislature, both before and after the removal of the
cajiital from Vandalia to Springfisld. He died about

'873-

Until about 19 years of age young Cullom grew up
to agricultural pursuits, attending school as he had
opportunity during the winter. Within this time,
nowever, he spent several months teaching school.

and in the following summer he "broke prairie "with
an o.x team for tlie neighbors. With the money ob-
tained by these various ventures, he undertook a
course of study at the Rock River Seminary, a
Methodist institution at Mt. Morris, Ogle County;
but the sudden change to the in-door life of a stu-
dent told severely upon his health, and he was taken
home, being considered in a hopeless condition. While
at Mt. Morris he heard Hon. E. B. Washburne make
his first speech.

On recovering health, Mr.~Cullom concluded to
study law, under the instruction of Abraham Lincoln,
at Springfield, who had by this time attained some
notoriety as an able lawyer; but the latter, being ab-
sent from his office most of the time, advised Mr.
Cullom to enter the office of Stuart & Edwards.
After about a year of study there, however, his health
failed again, and he was obliged to return once more
to out-door life. Accordingly he bought hogs for
packing, for A. G. Tyng, in Peoria, and while he re-
gained his health he gained in purse, netting $400 in
a few weeks. Having been admitted to the' Bar, he
went to Springfield, where he was soon elected City
Attorney, on the .\nti-Nebraska ticket.

In 1 85 6 he ran on the Fillmore ticket as a Presi-
dential Elector, and, although failing to be elected as
such, he was at the same time elected a Representa-
tive in the Legislature from Sangamon County, by a
local coalition of the American and Republican par-
ties. On the organization of the House, he received
the vote of the Fillmore men for Speaker. Practicing

176

SHELBY M. CULLOM.

law until i860, he was again elected to the Legisla-
ture, as a Republican, while the county went Demo-
cratic on the Presidential ticket. In January follow-
ing he was elected Speaker, probably the youngest
man who had ever presided over an Illinois Legis-
lature. After the session of 1861, he was a candidate
for the State Constitutional Convention called for
that year,' but was defeated, and thus escaped the
disgrace of being connected with that abortive party
scheme to revolutionize the State Government. Li
1862 he was a candidate for the State Senate, but
was defeated. The same year, however, he was ap-
pointed by President Lincoln on a Government
Commission, in company with Gov. Boutwell of
Massachusetts and Cnarles A. Dana, since of the
New York Sun, to investigate the affairs of the
Quartermaster's and Commissary Departments at
Cairo. He devoted several months to this duty.

In 1864 he euleied upon a larger political field,
being ixsminated as the Republican candidate for
Congress from llie Eighth (Springfield) District, in
opposition to the incumbent, JohnT. Stuart, who had
been elected in 1862 by about 1,500 majority over
Leonard Swett, then of Bloomington, now of Chicago.
The result was the election of Mr. Cullom in Novem-
ber following by a majority of 1,785. In 1866 he
was re-elected to Congress, over Dr. E. S. Fowler, by
the magnificent majority of 4 103! In 1868 he was
again a candidate, defeating the Hon. B. S. Edwards,
another of his old preceptors, by 2,884 votes.

During his first term in Congress he served on the
Committee on Foreign Affairs and E.xpenditures in
the Treasury Department; in his second term, on
the Committees on Foreign Affairs and on Territories ;
and in his third term he succeeded Mr. Ashley, of
O/.io, to the Chairmanship of the latter. He intro-
duced a bill in the House, to aid in the execution of
law in Utah, which caused more consternation among
the Mormons than any measure had previously, but
which, though it passed the House, failed to pass the
Senate.

The Republican Convention which met May 25,
1876, nominated Mr. Cullom for Governor; while the
other contestant was Gov. Beveridge. For Lieuten-
ant-Governor they nominated Andrew Shuman, editor
of the Chicago Journal. For the same offices the
Democrats, combining with the Anti-Monopolists,
placed in nomination Lewis Steward, a wealthy

farmer and manufacturer, and A. A. Glenn. The
result of the election was rather close, Mr. Cullom
obtaining only 6,800 majority. He was inaugurated
Jan. 8, 1877.

Great depression prevailed in financial circles at
this time, as a consequence of the heavy failures of
1S73 and afterward, the effect of which had seemed
to gather force from that time to the end of Gov.
Cullom's first administration. This unspeculative
period was not calculated to call forth any new
issues, but the Governor's energies were at one time
put to task to quell a spirit of insubordination that
had been begun in Pittsburg, Pa., among the laboring
classes, and transferred to Illinois at Chicago, East
St. Louis and Braidwood, at which places laboring
men for a short time refused to work or allow others
to work. These disturbances were soon quelled and
the wheels of industry again set in motion.

In May, 1880, Gov. Cullom was re-nominated by
the Republicans, against Lyman Trumbull, by the
Democrats; and although the former party was some-
what handicapped in the campaign by a zealous
faction opposed- to Grant for President and to Grant
men for office generally, Mr. Cullom was re-elected
by about 314,565, to 277,532 forthe Democratic State
ticket. The Greenback vote at the same time was
about 27,000. Both Houses of the Legislature again
becaine Republican, and no representative of the
Greenback or Socialist parties were elected. Gov.
Cullom was inaugurated Jan. 10, iSSi. In his mes-
sage he announced that the last dollar of the State
debt had been provided for.

March 4, 1883, the term of David Davis as United
States Senator from Illinois expired, and Gov. Cul-
lom was chosen to succeed him. This promoted
Lieutenant-Governor John M. Hamilton to the Gov-
ernorship. Senator Cullom's term in the United
States Senate will expire March 4, 1889.

As a practitioner of law Mr. C. has been a member
of the firm of Cullom, Scholes & Mather, at Spring-
field; and he has also been President of the State
National Bank.

He has been married twice, — the first time Dec.
12, 1855, to Miss Hannah Fisher, by whom he had
two daughters; and the second time May 5, 1863,
to Julia Fisher. Mrs. C is a member of the Method-
ist Episcopal Church, with which religious body Mr.
C. is also in sympathy.

GOVERNORS OF ILLINOIS.

'79

Ai^mW^> 7^^.

^^%m^

^«-^H*<^

OHN MARSHALL HAMIL-
TON, Governor 1883-5, ^^.s
born May 28, 1847, in a log
house upon a farm about two
45? miles from Richwood, Union
County, Ohio. His father was
Samuel Hamilton, the eldest son
of Rev. VVui. Hamilton, who, to-
gether with his brother, the Rev.
Samuel Hamilton, was among tlie
early pioneer Methodist preachers in
Ohio. The mother of tlie subject of
this sketch was, before her marriage,
Mrs. Nancy McMorris, who was
born and raised in Fauquier or Lou-
doun County, Va., and related to the
two large families of Youngs and Marshalls, well
known in that commonwealth; and from the latter
family name was derived the middle name of Gov.
Hamilton.

In March, 1854, Mr. Hamilton's father sold out
his little pioneer forest liome in Union County, O.,
and, loading his few household effects and family
(of six children) into two emigrant covered wagons,
moved to Roljerts Township, Marshall Co., 111., being
21 days on the route. Swamps, unbridged streams
and innumerable hardships and privations met them
on their way. Their new liome had been previously
selected by the father. Here, after many long years
of toil, they succeeded in paying for the land and
making a comfort^b't^ home. John was, of course,

brought up to hard manual labor, with no schooling
except three or four months in tlie year at a common
country school. However, he evinced a capacity
and taste for a high order of self-education, by
studying or reading what books he could borrow, as
the family had but very few in tlie house. Much of
his study he prosecuted by tlie light of a log fire in
the old-fashioned chimney place. The financial
panic of 1857 caused the family to come near losing
their home, to pay debts ; but the father and two
sons, William and John, "buckled to" and perse-
vered in hard labor and economy until they redeemed
their place from the mortgage.

When the tremendous excitement of the political
campaign of 1S60 reached the neighborhood of Rob-
erts Township, young Hamilton, who had been
brought up in the doctrine of anti-slavery, took a zeal-
ous part in favor of Lincoln's election. Making special
efforts to procure a little money to buy a uniform, lie
joined a company of Lincoln Wide-Awakes at Mag-
nolia, a village not far away. Directly after the
ensuing election it became evident that trouble
would ensue with the South, and this Wide-Awake
company, like many others throughout the country,
kept up its organization and transformed itself into a
military company. During the ensuing summer they
met often for drill and became proficient; but when
they offered themselves for the war, young Hamilton
was rejected on account of his youth, he being then
but 14 years of age. During the winter of 1863-4 he
attended an academy at Henry, Marshall County,

i8o

JOHN MARSHALL HAMILTON.

and in the following May he again enlisted, for the
fourth time, when he was placed in the 141st 111.
Vol. Inf., a regiment then being raised at Elgin, 111.,
for the 100-day service. He took with him 13 other
lads from his neighborhood, for enlistment in the
service. This regiment operated in Southwestern
Kentucky, for about five months, under Gen. Paine.
The following winter, 1864-5, '^'■- Hamilton taught
school, and during the two college years 1S65-7, he
went through three years of the curriculum of the
Ohio VVesleyan University at Delaware, Ohio. The
third year he graduated, the fourth in a class of 46,
in the classical department. In due time he received
the degree of M. A. For a few months he was the
Principal of Marshall " College " at Henry, an acad-
emy under the auspices of the M. E. Church. By
this time he had commenced the study of law, and
after earning some tnoney as a temporary Professor
of Latin at the Illinois Wesley an University at
Bloomington, he entered the law office of Weldon,
Tipton & Benjamin, of that city. Each member of
this firm has since been distinguished as a Judge.
.\dniitted to the Bar in May, 1870, Mr. Hamilton
was given an interest in the same firm, Tipton hav-
ing been elected Judge. In October following he
formed a partnership with J. H. Rowell, at that time
Prosecuting Attorney. Tlieir business was then
small, but they increased it to very large proportions,
practicing in all grades of courts, including even the
U. .S. Supreme Court, and this partnership continued
unbroken until Feb. 6, 1883, when Mr. Hamilton
was sworn in as E.xecutive of Illinois. On the 4th
of March following Mr. Rowell took his seat in Con-
gress.

In July, 187 I, Mr. Hamilton married Miss Helen
M. Williams, the daughter of Prof. VVni. G. Williams,
Professor of Greek in the Ohio Wesleyan University.
Mr. and Mrs. H. have two daughters and one son.

In 1876 Mr. Hamilton was nominated by the Re-
publicans for the State Senate, over other and older
competitors. He took an active part " on the stump "
in the campaign, for the success of Iiis party, and was
elected by a majority of 1,640 over his Democratic-
Greenback opponent. In tlie Senate he served on
the Cominittees on Judiciary, Revenue, State Insti-
tutions, Appropriations, Education, and on Miscel-
lany; and during the contest for the election of a
U, S. Senator, the Republicans endeavoring to re-

elect John A. Logan, he voted for the war chief on
every ballot, even alone when all the other Republi-
cans had gone over to the Hon. E. B. Lawrence and
the Democrats and Independents elected Judge
David Davis. K\. this session, also, was passed the
first Board of Health and Medit al Practice act, of
which Mr. Hamilton was a champion, agair,:'; ..
much opposition that the bill was several times
"laid on the table." Also, this session authorized
the location and establishment of a souihern peni-
tentiary, which was fixed at Chester. In the session
of 1879 Mr. Hamilton was elected President /rt) /t'>«,
of the Senate, and was a zealous supporter of John
A. Logan for the U. S. Senate, who wa", this lime
elected without any trouble.

In May, 1880, Mr. Hamilton was noininated on
the Republican ticket for Lieutenant Governor, his
principal competitors before the Convention being
Hon. Wm. A. James, ex Speaker of the House of
Representatives, Judge Robett Bell, of Wabash
County, Hon. T. T. Fountain, of Perry County, and
Hon. M. M. Saddler, of Marion County. He engaged
actively in the campaign, and his ticket was elected
by a majority of 41,200. As Lieutenant Governor,
he presided almost continuously over the Senate in
the 32d General Assembly and during the early days
of the 33d, until he succeeded to the Governorship.
When the Legislature of 1883 elected Gov. Cullom
to the United States Senate, Lieut. Gov. Hamilton
succeeded him, under the Constitution, taking the
oath of office Feb. 6, 1883. He bravely met all the
annoyances and embarrassments incidental upon
taking up another's administration. The principal
events with which Gov. Hamilton was connected as
the Chief Executive of the State were, the mine dis-
aster at Braidwood, the riots in St. Clair and Madison
Counties in May, 1883, the appropriations for the
State militia, the adoption of the Harper high-license
liquor law, the veto of a dangerous railroad bill, etc.

The Governor was a Delegate at large to the
National Republican Convention at Chicago in June,

1884, where his first choice for President was John
A. Logan, and second choice Chester A. Arthur; but
he afterward zealously worked for the election of Mr.
Blaine, true to his party.

Mr. Hamilton's term as Governor expired Jan. 30,

1885, when the great favorite " Dick " Oglesby was
inaugurated.

'^^

t/^^^z^^

JOSEPH W. FIFER.

183

^^'^ .-f; .t. A it- <ii.vi ^. i-i-i ^^, .r. .t.

■•o*o.-(g^<A^..o*o.-

^^:,q)5

:<)SKPH WILSON FIFER. This
distinguished gentleman was
;-iw elected Governor of Illinois
;:: November 6, 1888. lie was
popularly known during the
campaign as "Private Joe." He
had served with great devotion
to his couutrj' during the Re-
jjellion, in the Thirtj'-third
Illinois Infantry. A native of
Virginia, he was born in 1840.
Ilis parents, John and Mary
( Daniels) Fifer, were American
born, though of (Tcrman de-
scent. Ilis father was a brick
and stone mason, and an old
lliMuy Clay Whig in politics. John and Mary
Fifei- liad nine children, of whom Joseph was the
sixth, and naturally with so large a family it was
all tlip father could do to keep the wolf from the
d<i(ir; to say nothing of giving his children aiiy-
thing like good educational advantages.

Young Joseph attended school some in Vir-
ginia, but it was not a good school, and when
his father removed to the West, in 1857, Josi'pii had,
not advanced mucii further than tiie -First Reader."

Our suliject was sixteen then and suffered a great
misfortune in the loss of his mother. After the deatii
of ^Irs. Fifer. which occurred in Missouri, tlie
family returned to Virginia, but remained only u
short time, as during the same jear Mr. Fifer
came to Illinois. He settled in McLean County and
started a brickyard. Here Joseph and his broth-
ers were pnt to work. The elder Fifer soon
bought a farm near Bloomington and began lifi'a.s
an agriculturalist. Here Joe worked and attended
the neighboring school. He alternated farm-work,
lirick-layiug, and going to the district school for
the succeeding few years. It was all work and no
play for Joe, yet it by no means made a dull boy
of him. All the time he was thinking of the great
world outside, of which he had caught a glimiise
when coming from Virginia, yet he did not know
just how he was going to get out into it. He
could not feci that the woods around the new
farm and the log cabin, in whii'h the family lived,
were to hold him.

The opi)ortunity to get out into the world was
soon offered to young Joe. He traveled a dozen
miles barefoot, in company with his brother George,
and enlisted in Comi)any C, 33d Illinois Infantry;
he being then twenty years old. lu a lew day

184

JOSEPH W. FIFER.

the regiment was sent to Camp Butler, and then
over into Missouri, anil saw some visiorous service
there. After a second time helping to chase Price
out of Missouri, tlie .'53d llegiment went down
to Milliken's Bend, and for several weeks "Private
■Toe " worked on Grant's famous ditch. The regi-
ment tiien joined the forces operating against Port
(Jilison and Vickshurg. Joe was on guard diilj- in
llie front ditches when the Hag of surrender was
run nj) on the 4th of July, and stuck tiie haj'onet
of his gun into the embankment and went into the
cit}' witii the vanguard of Union soldiers.

The next day. July .ii, the 33d joined the force
after Johnston, who had been threatening Grant's
rear; and finally an assault was made on him at
Jackson, Miss. In this charge "Private Joe" fell, ter-
ribly wounded. He was loading his gun when a
minie-ball struck him and i)assed entirely through
his body. He was regarded as mortally wounded.
His brother, George, who had been made a Lieu-
tenant, proved to be the means of saving his life.
The Surgeon told him unless he had ice his brother
Joe could not live. It was fifty miles to the nearest
point where ice could Ije obtained, and the roads
were rough. A comrade, a^IcLean county man, who
had been wounded, offered to make the trip. An
amlndance was secured and the brother soldier
started on the journey. He returned with the ice.
but the tri]). owing to the roughness of the roads,
was very hard on him. After a few months' care-
ful nursing Mr. Fifer was able to come home. The
33d came home on a furlough, and when the
boys were ready to return to the tented field,
young Fifer was ready to go with them; for he was
determined to finish his term of three j'ears. He
was mustered out in October, 1804, having been
in the service three years and two months.

"Private Joe" came out of the army a tall,
tanned, and awkward young man of twenty-four.
About all he possessed was ambition to be some-
body — and pluck. Though at an age when most
men have finished their college course, the young
soldier saw that if he was to be anybody he must
have an education. Yet he had no means to ena-
l)le him to enter school as most young men do.
He was determined to have an education, however,
and that to him meant success. For the following

four years he struggled with his books. He entered
Wesleyan I'niversilN' Jan. 1. 1865. He was not a
brilliant student, being neither at the head nor the
foot of his class. He was in great earnest, how-
ever, studied hard and came forth with a well-
stored and disciplined mind.

Immediately after being graduated he entered
an ollice at Bloomington as a law student. He had
already read law some, and as he continued to work
h.ard, with the spur of poverty and promptings of
ambition ever with him, he was re.ady to hang out
his professional shingle in 1869. Being trust-
worthy he soon gathered about him some influen-
tial friends. In 1871 he was elected Corporation
Counsel of Bloomington. In 1872 he was elected
State's Attorney of McLean Count}-. This ottice
he held for eight years, when he took his seat in
the State Senate. Here he served for four years.
His ability to perform abundance of hard work
made him a most valued member of the Legisla-
ture.

Mr. Fifer was married in 1870 to Gertie, daugh-
ter of William J. Lewis, of Bloomington. Mr.
Fifer is six feet in height and is spare, weighing
onh- 150 pounds. He has a swarthy complexion,
keen black eyes, quick movement, and possesses a
frank and s.ympathetic nature, and naturally makes
friends wherever he goes. During the late Guber-
natorial campaign his visits throughout the State
proved a great power iji his behalf. His happy
faculty of winning the confidence and good wishes
of those with whom he comes in personal contact is a
source of great popularity, especiall}- during a polit-
ical battle. As a speaker he is fluent, his language
is good, voice clear and agreeable, and manner
forcible. His manifest earnestness in what he says
as well as his tact as a public speaker, and his elo-
quent and forceful language, makes him a most
Viiluable campaign orator and a powerful pleader
at the bar. At the Hc[)ublican State Convention,
held in May, 1888, Mr. Fifer was chosen as its candi-
date for Governor. He proved a popular nominee,
and the name of "Private Joe" became familiar
to ever^^one throughout the State. He waged a
vigorous campaign, was elected by a good majority,
and in due time .assumed the duties of the Chief
Executive of Illinois.

INTRODUQTORY.

HE time has arrived wlitu it
becomes the duty of tlie
people of tliis county to per-
petuate the names of their
pioneers, to furnish a record
of their early settlement,
and relate the story of their
progress. The civilization of our
day, the enlightenment of the age
and the duty that men of the pres-
ent time owe to their ancestors, to
themselves and to their posterity,
demand that a record of their lives
and deeds should be made. In bio-
graphical history is found a povi'er
to instruct man by precedent, to
enliven the mental faculties, and
to waft down the river of time a
safe vessel in which the names and actions of the
people who contributed to raise this country from its
primitive state may be preserved. Surely and rapidly
the great and aged men, who in their prime entered
the wilderness and claimed the virgin soil as their
heritage, are passing to their graves. The number re-
maining who can relate the incidents of the first days
:>{ settlement is becoming small indeed, so that an
actual necessity exists for the collection and [)reser-
vation of events without delay, before all the early
settlers are cut down by the scythe of Time.

To be forgotten lias been the great dread of mankind
from remotest ages. All will be forgotten soon enough,
in spite of their best works and the most earnest
efforts of their friends to perserve the memory of
their lives. The means employed to prevent oblivion
and to perpetuate their memory has been in propor-
tion to the amount of intelligence they possessed.
ThT pyramids of Egypt were built to perpetuate the
names and deeds of their great rulers. The exhu-
mations made by the archeologists of Egypt from
buried Memphis indicate a desire of those people

to perpetuate the memory of their achievements.
The erection of the great obelisks were for the same
purpose. Coming down to a later period, we find tht
Greeks and Romans erecting mausoleums and monu-
ments, and carving out statues to chronicle their
great acliievements and carry them down the ages.
It is also evident that the Mound-builders, in piling
up their great mounds of earth, liad but this idea —
to leave something to show that they had lived. All
these works, though many of them costly in the ex-
treme, give but a faint idea of the lives and charac-
ters of those whose memory they were intended to
perpetuate, and scarcely anything of the masses of
the people tliat then lived. The great pyramids and
some of the obelisks remain objects only of curiosity;
the mausoleums, monuments and statues are crum-
bling into dust.

It was left to modern ages to establish an intelli-
gent, undecaying, immutable method of perpetuating
a full history — immutable in that it is almost un-
limited in extent and perpetual in its action ; and
this is through the art of printing.

To the present generation, however, we are in-
debted for the introduction of the admirable system
of local biography. By this system every man, though
he has not achieved what the world calls greatness,
has the means to perpetuate his life, his history,
through the coming ages.

The scythe of Time cuts down all ; nothing of the
physical man is left. The monument which his chil-
dren or friends may erect to his memory in the ceme-
tery will crumble into dust and pass away; but his
life, his achievements, the work he has accomplished,
which otherwise would be forgotten, is perpetuated
by a record of this kind.

To preserve the lineaments of our companions we
engrave their portraits, for the same reason we col-
lect the attainable facts of their history. Nor do we
think it necessary, as we speak only truth of them, to
wait until they are dead, or until those who know
them are gone: to do this we are ashamed only to
publish to the world the history of those whose lives
are unworthy of public record.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

The PeorSa Public Library.

HE Public Library of Peoria is located in a
central part of. the city, occupying- the Mer-
cantile Library 15uilding — a three-story
structure of pressed brick, with brown stone trim-
mings — situated on the Main Street corner oppo-
site the Court-IIouse. This library was ostalilislied
only in the year 1880, but represents several older
institutions — the German Library Association iiav-
ing been merged into it in 1881, and a year later the
library of the Mercantile Library Association; this
was among Peoria's earliest educational institutions,
dating back to 1856, and continuing always a popu-
lar and valual)le adjunct to the citj^'s prosperity.

The present library offers all its privileges free
to any citizen or propert}^ owner of Peoria, has a
membership of five thousand persons, and is rap-
idly extending the valuable collection of books
upon its shelves, already amounting to some forty
thousand volumes. These works are divided among
all branches of literature — are strong in history,
theolog}', science and political economy. The arts
also are well represented, and especially the de-
partment of practical arts, trades and manufactures.

Here the intelligent workingman, mechanic or
engineer, may have access to books upon all the
most important technical manipulations and com-
mercial industries; and the student of general
science may find means of information regarding
the results of the latest investigations, and kec^p
abreast with the science of the day. The branches
of lighter literature are not neglected, new and
entertaining books of travel are constantly pur-
chased aud always in demand, while the standard

novels and current fiction of the better class are
freely provided. In tlie juvenile department are
not only wholesome tales and the dear old fairy
legends, but books upon science, histor}- and travel,
delightfully adapted to interest these y<ning readers
and give them a taste for more solid reading later
on.

That these books are appreciated ancl widely
read may be inferred from the number circulated
— the issue amounting to ninety thousand volumes
during the year.

The Public Library is undoubtedly a strong fac-
tor in the city's progress, in the intelligence of its
men and women, the growing beauty of its arciu-
tectuie, its excellent sanitary condition, and wise
management throughout.

In addition to the issue department, the library
has a bright, pleasant reading room open through-
out the day and evening, where the leading news-
papers, and the best periodical publications of the
United States, England and Germany, some two
hundred in number, are kept on file; also a study,
where the student may find perfect quiet in which
to consult books of reference or valuable volumes
which mjiy not be taken from the library; and a
bindery which is carried on solely- for the use of
this institution, repairing old books and binding
the magazines, pamphlets and other unbound vol-
umes which find their way into the library, in most
durable and creditable style.

The library is entirely dependent upon the city
for its support, but is in a prosperous condition,
receiving from the City Council a generous appro-
priation each year, raised by a special tax levied
for this purpose.

'i&''^'-

TRANSPORTATION.

' WS!Si-!2^-^->i'i-A-

TRANSPORTATION.

^NE of the most important fac-
** ^ tors iu the business develop-
ment and prosperity of a
.3~j, city, county or State, is its
jkSVt^ railroad communications. A
retrospection of the history
of the South Platte Country since
:J the advent of railroad facilities, will
convince the careful observer of the
immense benefit resulting from the
introduction of this essential adjunct
of commercial enterprise. The fol-
lowing brief sketches of the leading
railroads of this section of the great
coniinon wealth will form an interesting feature of
this Alhum. It m.ay be remarked in this connec-
tion tii.at the roads referred to are not only the im-
portant coriiorations of Kansas, but stand among
the first in the Nation.

►?-«^'=^^=4^-^

-S^^3-

-* i ^-

Cliiciiffo, Rock Island & Pacific

S among the oldest and most important trunk
lines, having Ciiicago for its eastern terminus-
til the completion of tliis road in Illinois marked
an imiiortaiit era in the development of the north-
ern and western portion of the State, as well as
contributing to the upbuilding of many thriving

manufacturing cities on its line — notably Joliet
Moline, Rock Island and Davenport; also with its
two branches extending to Peoria, has opened up
good markets for the extensive coal and agricul-
tural resources of that locality, likewise giving a
rapid impetus to the commercial and manufactur-
ing resources of Peoria. Moline (except Chicago),
is probably the most important and extensive man-
ufacturing city on the line, and through the enter-
prise of the great Rock Island Route it has been
enabled to la}' down its manufactured wares to the
farmers of Southern Iowa, Northern Missour-i and
Kansas, cheaper than by any other road, and the
vast lumber interests of the cities of Rock Island
and Davenport have by means of this line been
enabled to reach the most important, as well as the
most remote, places in Kansas. The Rock Island
has always been in the very van of railroad prog-
ress; while always solid and substantial, yet it has
ever been steadily and constantly building new
lines and extending its system until it now ramifies
into the best regions of the Mississippi and Mis-
souri Valleys. It lines extending to Deuvcr, Colo-
rado Springs, and other points iu Colorado, offer
unsurpassed facilities, to the tourist or man of busi-
ness for elegant and comfortable traveling; its
superb dining cars have among travelers made it
renowned as among the best roads of the West. In
brief the Rock Island Companj* has by a judicious
system of permanent improvements, and by the in-

TRANSPORTATION.

troduction of all modern appliances which tend to
the preservation of life and property, placed itself
in such a condition, materially and pliysically, that
its financial future cannot be affected by the con-
tingencies which seriously aflfect other roads. Its
success as one of the great highways of the West
is an assured reality. It might be appropriately
noted here that while much of this road's past suc-
cess may be attributed to its admirable geograph-
ical location, embracing a ver\' rich section of the
country for local traffic, and with a termini on Lake
Michigan, the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers a.nd
Denver, the heart of the Rocky Mountain le-
gions, equally as much is due to the stability of the
management, and to the fact that the property has
never yet become the foot-ball of speculators. It
is not surprising tiiat the Chicago, Rock Island &
Pacific has maintained a firm position as an invest-
ment in the moneyed centers of the world, and it
has acquired a well-merited popularity with the
traveling and shipping public. Its steel rails and
well ballasted road-bed have long since made it the
favorite with shippers, and its freight traffic is im-
mense and growing. At Council Bluffs and Omaha,
connections are made with all roads centering
there. It is the most direct and shortest route be-
tween Omaha and Chicago — and hence the favorite
of shippers. At Davenport a branch diverges to
the Southwest, and extends to Kansas Cit}', Leav-
enworth, Atchison and St. Joseph.

At St. Joseph the road crosses the Missouri and
enters Kansas; at Horton the line diverges and ex-
tends up into Nebraska as far as Nelson; from
Fairbury, Neb., the line extends through Northern
Kansas to Denver, and Colorado Springs. From
Horton the line leads in a south westerlji- direction
through Topeka, the capital of the State; thence to
Herington, Hutchinson and to Liberal, the latter
place on the line of the Indian Territory. At Mc-
Farland a spur extends in a northwestern direction
through Manhattan and Cla}^ Center to Belleville,
wliere a junction is made with the main line to
Denver, Col.; at Herington a short branch goes to
Abilene and Salina. From Herington the line
I)asses south through Wichita and Wellington to
Caldwell, on the line of the Indian Territorj'.

With its accustomed energy this road was the

first to complete its line into the Oklahoma country,
passing through Kingfisher, and having El Reno
for its Southern terminus.

CIIAKACTEinSTICS OF THE KOAD.

The whole number of miles operated by tlie Chi-
cago, Rock Island & Pacific Railway at the present
time, including second tracks and sidings, is about
four thousand and ninet}'-three miles. The main
track mileage in the following States is: Illinois,
236 miles; Iowa, 1,066.10; Missouri, 286.70; Kan-
sas, 1,147.37; Nebraska, 140.97; Colorado, 376.06 ;
and Indian Territory, 106.75 — 186.70 second track,
and about 565.45 side track.

This company has a contract for joint use of
track with the Hannibal <t St. Joseph between Kan-
sas City and Cameron Junction; with the Union
Pacific Railwa}^ from Kansas Cit}- to North Topeka,
also from Linion to Denver; and with the Denver
& Rio Grande between Denver and Pueblo.

The principal shops of this company are located
at Chicago, 111.; Rock Island, 111.; Stewart, Iowa;
Trenton, Mo.; Horton and Goodland, Kan.; and
Roswell, Colo. Solid ti-ains, carrying all classes
of passengers, are run through between Chicago,
Denver, Pueblo, Colorado Springs, via St. Josepli,
Kansas Cit}- and Topeka; through trains to Wich-
ita, El Reno (Ft. Reno), Hutchinson, Dodge City,
Salina and Abilene. The line is equipped with
first-class baggage, mail, smoking cars and coaches;
chair cars of the latest improved pattern of chairs,
and Pullman Palace Sleeping Cars. Dining cars
are now running on all through passenger trains
between Colorado points and Chicago, and also
between Council Bluffs and Chicago, and eating-
houses are located at convenient points on all divis-
ions for the accommodation of local trains. It is
contemplated to establish dining-car service on tlic
whole line, in the near future. In regard to freight
traffic, the management has a comprehensive S3S-
tem of through cars and way -billing to all promi-
nent points in the West, Northwest and Southwest.
Having their own rails between Chicago, Peoria
.and Kansas City, St. Joseph, Omaha and Denver,
no delaj's or transfers between Chicago and any of
these points. Also run through cars to the Pacific
Coast via all lines having terminals on the coast.

TRANSPORTATION.

Less tb:in car-load shipments to all prominent
poinis in through cars, thus avoiding transfers and
delay. Special attention is paid to live stock from
all points on the line. At present there is one
hundred and eight^'-seven miles of doiible track
being operated, one hundred and eighty-one miles
of which is located in Illinois, between Ciiicago
and Rock Island ; the balance in Iowa, from Da-
venport to what is known as Double Track Junc-
tion, about six miles west of Davenport on the
Council Bluff line.

The experience of the p.ast has clearly demon-
strated that whatever is undertaken b}^ the mana-
gers of tiie Rock Island is not merely done, but
done well, that they possess to an almost unlimited
extent the confidence of Eastern and European
capitalists, and that thej' are remarkably shrewd
and f.ar-seeing in anything which affects the present
or the future interests of their propcrt3'.

It will be oliserved that all the great leading
marts of trade in Kans.as are tapped by this road,
thereby giving to that portion of the West a strong
au<l substantial competitive market with the great
Eastern commercial centers.

-•AEfir;?^-"

P^4— »-^^V?3ra'»%.

Arcliison, Toiicka & Sauta l^'e Kailvvay,

5S: OPULARLY known as the Santa Fe Route.
jjj The initial lines of this great system were
first built from Atchison to Topeka, in
|£ 18G9, and for man}' years the former city
was the Eastern terminus of the road. The man-
agement of the Santa Fe, with wonderful energy,
pushed out its lines in every direction into the
j'oung and growing State of Kansas, and in tlu;
majoriU' of instances preceding settlement and
civilization. Tiiis road was the first to penetrate
across the southern part of Colorado, via Pueblo
and Trinidad into New Mexico, until its lines pene-
trated the old adobe town of Santa Fe, wiiosc citi-
zens were Jialf S|ianish .and half Mexican. As its
course penetrated tlie wilderness it sometimes fol-
lowed the old Santa Fe Trail, and generally not far
distant at any time from the "trail" whicli had

been made famous yeai's before by trappers and
also by the CJovernmcnt freighters. The mar-
velous growth and development of the Slate of
of Kansas is in a great measure due to the enter-
prise and public spirit of the managers of the Santa
Fe Sj'stem. Not only did they devote the'.r en-
ergy to the upbuilding of the road, but at great
expense they maintained cmigr.ation and Colonial
agents in the various countries of Euiope, as well
as in the Eastern, Middle and Southern States,
thereby advertising tiie State of Kansas as no other
State has heretofore been done. Its climate, its
soil and great advantages to the home seeker were
at times full}' portrayed by the enterprise of this
road — every fostering care was given to the stock
and ranch men, to the merchant, the mechanic and
the manufacturer to settle in Kansas — as a result
we have here a State in the center of the Union, of
boundless agricultural resources, settled by a wide-
awake, enterprising and prosperous people. The
Santa Fe owns and operates more miles of road in
Kansas than any other lin(!, with its vast system of
East and West, North and South lines reaclung
every important town in the State, and penetrating
sixty-throe counties in Kansas. The magnitude of
its business is immense. Its lines beginning at the
Missouri River towns in Kansas are St. Joseph, Atch-
ison, Leavenworth and Kansas City; extends south
to Coffeyville, Arkansas City, Hunnewell, Caldwell,
New Kiowa (thence to the Pan Handle of Texas),
and north to Superior, in Nebraska; Concordia,
Clay Center. Minneapolis, and other Northern
Kansas cities. Its main lines and branches reach
nearly every important city in the Sta,te. St. Jo-
seph, on the Missouri side of tlu^ river, has a popu-
lation of nearly one hundred thous.and, and its
wiiolesale trade is heavy throughout the West.
Atchison is a growing city of about twenty thous-
and people; the .Soldiers' Orphans Home of the
State is located here. Leavenworth, with her thirty
thousand people, is an important manufacturing
center. Leavenworth was the earliest famous city
of Kansas, as it w.as the original outfitting point for
travel and traffic across the plains. The Kansas
system may be described as a main cast and west line,
over four hundred miles in length, with branch
lines extending in every direction where an area of

T H A N 8PORTATION.

particularly rich country, or some other special
advantages invited a line of rails.

Tlie road from Topeka, after 1869, was extended
west and south, and then east to Kansas City bj'
purchase of a line built by another companj'. From
Kansas City, in 1887-88 the line was extended to
Cliieago, under the name of the Chicago, Santa Fe
& California Road; in 1887, also the purchase of
the Gulf, Colorado & Santa Fe Road, and the ex-
tension of the Kansas lines through the Indian
Territory to Texas, gave the companj- a line to the
Gulf of Mexico. So that .at the present time the
Santa Fe System proper begins at Chicago, passes
through Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, Kansas, Colorado,
Indian Territory, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona
and California, and has for itg Southern terminals
Galveston, on the Gulf of Mexico, and El Paso, on
tlie Mexican frontier; and for its Western terminals
San Diego and Los Angeles, on the Pacific Coast,
(San Francisco being practically a Pacific-Coast
terminal, as it is reached via Mojave, over the
tracks of the Southern Pacific Railway); and for
its Northern terminals Chicago, St. Joseph, Mo.,
Superior, Neb., and Denver, the capital of Colo-
rado.

Chicago to Kansas Citj' is practiealU' an air line,
being the most straight and direct of any road
between the two cities. It passes through a large
number of important towns in Illinois, including
Joliet, witli its great steel works, and other manu-
facturing interests. Tlie next imjjortant place is
Streator, a few miles south of the latter place; a
branch extends to the thriving citj' of Pekin, on
the Illinois River. From Streator tlie main line
crosses the Illinois at ChlUicothe, and extends
through Peoria and Knox Counties to the beauti-
ful -ind enterprising city of Galesburg, here it
comes in competition with several lines of the
Burlington .Sj'stem; thence running in a southwest-
erly direction through a rich and populous section,
crossing the Mississippi at Ft. Madison, on a mag-
nificent steel bridge. Here the companj' have
established shops, that being the terminus of the
two operating divisions of the road. From Ft.
M.adison by a spur Keokuk is reached. Tlie line
through Missouri shows very heavy construction
work, inaile to secure what was desired in the waj-

of distance and grades. Along the Santa Fe new
towns are springing up, and new industries are be-
ing developed. Twenty miles east of Kansas City
the Missouri River is crossed bj' a steel bridge, so
that the line enters Kansas City on the south sids
of the river. From Kansas City to Topeka the
line runs on the South bank of the Kansas River;
at Wilder and HoUiday are points for the depart-
ure of branch lines— one northwest to Atchison,
and the other southwest througli Ottawa and South-
ern Kansas, being known as the Southern Kansas
division of the Santa Fe System. From Lawrence
to Topeka the road is still in the Kansas Vallej',
through a veritable garden. Native trees of great
height overhang the railway here and there, and in
the siH'ing and summer the crops look green and
luxuriant. The approach to Topeka is through the
long yards, and by the vast machine shops of the
Santa Fe Company, across various broad streets to
a commodious brick station.

The general offices of the road are in Topeka,
and occupy a handsome and commodious building
near the State capitol. From Topeka to Denver
the Santa Fe Route runs for about seventj'-five
miles in a south westerlj- direction to the upper wa-
tei's of Neosho River, at Emporia, passing through
Osage Countj', where are found some of the richest
coal fields of the West. At Newton the line di-
verges south through Southern Kansas, the Indian
Territory and Texas to Galveston; continuing
west from Newton the first citj- of importance
reached is Hutchinson ; here are some of the heaviest
salt works in the United States, besides other ex-
tensive manufacturing interests. AVest of Hutch-
inson the line extends through a fertile, prosperous
and rapidly growing district. The line is beautified
here and there bj' manj' thriving pities and villages.
At La Junta, in Colorado, the line for New Mex-
ico, Arizona and bej^ond, turns south. Pueblo,
sixty-five miles due west of La Junta, for years the
terminus of the Santa Fe Sj'stem, is a growing
manufacturing city. It is admirabjj- located with
reference to the great ore-pi'oducing canons of Col-
orado. All roads leading to it, coal, iron, silver,
gold, lead, copper, building stone, everything in
fact which is produced in tlie greatest mining State
in the Union, roll naturally down hill to I'nelilo.

TRANSPORTATION.

Beyond Pueblo to the west are many thriving cities
founded on mining and agriculture, notaljly : Lead-
ville, the greatest mining camp in Colorado; while
forty miles north, on the line of the Santa Fe, are
the lovel}' villages of Colorado Springs, and Maui-
tou, nestling at the foot of Pike's Peak. Manitou
is at the mouth of a deep canon, and is one of the
most lovely summer resorts in America. Near here
is the famous "Garden of the Gods," whose won-
drous beauty and grandeur is unsurpassed. From
Color.ado Sfjrings westward, through Manitou and
np the canon beyond Pike's Peak, the Colorado
Midland Railway is pushing its wa)' far toward the
the western borders of the State. Eighty miles
north of Colorado Springs the Santa Fe line ter-
minates at Denver, a magnificently built city of
nearly two hundred thousand people. It is prob-
able that no American city has so many features of
unique beauty as Denver. Its splendid public build-
ings, and its broad avenues lined with beautiful
residences, cozily located at the foot of the snow-
capped mountains of the Rocky range, render it
unlike any other city of its size in the world. The
ride from Pueblo to Denver along the foot of the
mountains is one never to be missed. The snow-
covered peaks, the many combinations of sun and
cloud, and rain and snow; the marvelous atmos-
phere, all combine to surprise and charm the be-
holder.

From Newton to Galveston, the line leaving the
main east and west line in Kansas at Newton, runs
directly south to Galveston. The first place of
importance reached is the phenomenal city of Wich-
ita, located on the Big and Little Arkansas Rivers,
a city of thirty-five thousand people, where only a
few 3'ears ago was an Indian trading-post. Wichita
is one of the most remarkable cities in the West. It
has a heavy and growing wholesale trade, and a
large amount of manufacturing business, including
the Burton Stock Car Works, the Dold & Whit-
aker Meat-Packing establishments. The city is
handsomely laid out, and has many handsome pub-
lic buildings, commodious business houses and
sp.acious resiliences, situated on broad avenues,
lined with beautiful shade trees. South of Wichita
is a cluster of growing cities, comprising Winfiold,
Wellington, Arkansas City and Caldwell. Wichita

and Arkansas City liave pioliled much by the
opening up of Oklahoma to settlement. Entering
the Indian Territory the line passes through a
magnificent agricultural country, as yet almost
wholly undeveloped. In Texas the principal cities
on the line between the Indian Territory and Gal-
veston, are Gainesville, Paris, Ft. Worth, Cleburne,
Dallas, Morgan, Temple, Brenham, Houston and
Richmond. Galveston, the terminus, is a rapidly
growing city of fifty thousand inhabitants. It is
charmingly situated on the Gulf Coast, and has an
unsurpassed climate in both summer and winter.

From La Junta to El Paso, the line leaving La
Junta climbs to the summit of the Raton Range,
seventy -six hundred and twenty-two feet above the
sea. On the way up it passes through the impor-
tant Colorado towns of El Moro and Trinidad. The
village of Raton is an important division point for
the railway, and then comes Las Vegas and its
famous hot springs, six miles distant from the main
line, but connected with it by a short line with
good equipments. At the Hot Springs is the Phoe-
nix Hotel. The springs are unsurpassed anywhere
in the world, and the hotel is conducted by the
company in the most generous manner imaginable.
The springs are forty-two in number, and are hot
and cold, and have a variety of mineral properties
which render them remarkably strong in their cura-
tive power. South of Las Vegas the line passes
through fertile valleys, heavy forests, and lilack
and rugged canons, until the valley of the Rio
Grande is reached. A branch line from Lamy ex-
tends up the mountain to Santa Fe, the capital of
New Mexico, next to St. Augustine, the oldest city
in America. Santa Fe has a new State House, and
its quaint old churches and dwellings are inter-
spersed with modern structures. It should be seen
before the peculiar charm of its antiquity has been
entirely destroyed. Albuquerque, Socorro and San
Marcial are the chief points between Santa Fe and
El Paso. All are important points for the business
of mining, cattle raising and general commerce.
From Riucon a branch line leads to Deming, where
junction is made with the Southern Pacific Rail-
way, and to Silver City, and to the other mining
townsof Southern New Mexico. It is the fortunate
destiny of New Mexico generally, and the Rio

TRANSPORTATTON.

Grande \ alk'v [),iriiciil:irly, to soon take front rank
in the line of fruit production. Thegra|)es produced
in the Lower Rio Grande Valley are not surpassed
in either quality or quantity by the product of any
part of the Continent.

From Albuquerque to tlie Pacific Coast, in the
heart of New Mexico, due west, the Atlantic &
Pacific Railroad forni.s the main Santa Fe Route to
California. The line passes through a great mining
and stock-raising countr\', where the climate is per-
fect. Prescott, the capital of Arizona, is reached
by a branch from Prescott Junction. Constant
changes of scenerj' characterize the line, and the
crossing of the Colorado Canon is one of the most
remarkable accomplishments known in the railroad
world. In Southern California the lines of the
California Central & Southern reach every impor-
tant city. Barstow, San Bernardino, Colton, San
Diego, National City, Los Angeles, and a hundred
other beautiful towns offer unequaled inducements
to the seeker after health, wealth and pleasure.
San Francisco and other cities of Central and
Northern California are reached bj' the lines of the
Southern Pacific by virtue of a special arrangement
for traffic. Between Chicago and Kansas City
meals are served on the finest dining cars; on the
other lines and branches are superb eating-houses
and hotels. No expense is spared in securing ele-
gant accommodations; the supplies are secured
from the best markets East and West.

From the resume thus given of the facilities pos-
sessed by the Santa Fe Railway, for interchanging
traffic at its termini and various junctions, it must
be apparent to the reader that the line is admirably

siUialed, and Uiat in many respects iL uccu[>iis a
strategic position, superior to that of other trans-
Missouri and Mississippi railroads. These advan-
tages have been utilized in the past, as they will be
in the future, in developing the localities through
which the various branches extend, and to build
up the permanent prosperity of the property whose
histoiy is so closely interwoven with the settlement,
development and prosperity of the West beyonil
the Missouri River. Its local traffic compares fa-
vorably with that of otlier competing lines. To
this purely local traffic must be added the contri-
butions of its several termini, all large cities and
prominent trade centers in tlie Missouri and .Mi
sissippi Valle3's. With the growth and steady
development of the manufacturing and other indus-
tries of Chicago, Kansas City, St. Joseph, Atchi-
son, Leavenworth, Topeka, Wichita, Galveston,
El Paso, Pueblo and Denver, the Santa Fe Rail-
wa3' must materially make corresponding strides
toward attaining that proud financial position which
has been the life dream of its originators and
present owners. Under the present progressive and
conservative management, all advantages of geo-
grapical position, and all the resources of the
tlirough line will be constantl}' utilized in building
up the future prosperity of the road itself, and in
developing the e:^tended area of Chicago's com-
mercial supremac}^ The Land Grant from the
Government amounted substantiallj^ to three mill-
ion acres. In brief its commanding geographical
position, coupled with its direct Eastern alliance
for through business, must render the Santa Fe
eventually one of the most remunerative of our
Western railroads.

TRANSPORTATION.

The Wabash.

F5«.() THE public aii'l our thousands of. readers
in general: — It will no doubt be interesting
'I' to all if we give a brief deserii)tion of
this road. The Wabash, as now known, lias been
operated under several names from time to time.
It is the offspring, as it were, of the lirst line of
road projected in Illinois, then known as the
Northern Cross Railroad, extending from Dan-
ville to Quincy. This was chartered in 1837. and
upon it the first locomotive w.as placed in the
winter of 1838-30, running from Meredosia, on
the Illinois River, to .lacksonville. In 1842 the
road was completed fi'om Jacksonville to Spring-
lield. and three trips were made per week. The
track was of the old Hat rail style, which w.as made
by nailing thin strips of iron on two parallel lines
of timbers placed at the proper distance apart, and
running lenglhw.ays of the road. The engine as
well as the road soon became so impaired that the
former had to be abandoned, and mules substituted
as the motor power. However, such locomotion
was destined to be of short duration, for the State
soon after sold the entire road for a nominal sum,
and thus for a short time was suspended one of the
first railroad enterprises in Illinois. But in the
West a new era — one of prodigious industrial
activity and far-reaching results in the practical
arts — was dawning, and within thirty j-ears of llie
temporarj' failure of the road mentioned, Illinois
had outstripped all others in gigantic internal im-
provements, and at present has more miles of rail-
road than any other State in the Union.

The Great Western, whose name has been suc-
cessively changed to Toledo, Wabash & Western,
Wabash, and Wabash, St. Louis & Pacific, and
Wabash Railroad, and The Wabash, the last of
which it still bears,was an extension of the Northern
Cross Railroad, above mentioned, and traverses some
of the finest portions of Illinois, Indiana and Oiiio.
It soon became the popular highway of travel and
traffic between the East and the West. Through a
system of consolidation, unparalleled in American
railways, it has become a giant among them, and
has added many millions of dollars to the value of
bonds and shares of the various companies now-
incorporated in the AVabash system. The road

takes its title from the river of that name, a tribu-
tary of the Ohio, which ie part separates the States
of Illinois and Indiana. In looking over the map
of the Wabash Railroad it will be seen that the
line extends through the most fertile and wealthy
portions of the center of the United States, having
termini at more large cities than any other West-
ern road. It was indeed a far-reaching sagacit3'
which consolidated these various lines into the
Wal)asli system, forming one immense chain of
great commercial activity and i)ower. Its ter-
minal facilities are unsurpassed by an}- competing
line. Its home offices are established in commo-
dious quarters in St. Louis. The lines of the road
are co-extensive with the importance of the great
transportation facilities required for the products
of the Mississippi Valley. This line passes through
the States of low-a, Missouri, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio
and Jlichigan.

The various lines of load m.ay be divided into
the following:

Miles.

St. Louis to Chicago 286

Toledo to Kansas Cit\- GG2

St. Louis to l)es Moines 360

Logansport to Detroit 207

Chicago to Lr.keton Junction 123

Clayton to Keokuk 42

Bluffs to Quincy 10.5

Streator to Forest 37

Attica to Covington 15

Champaign to Sidney 12

Edwardsville to Edwardsville

Crossing 9

liement to Allamont and Etlinghani 63

Brunswick to Omaha 225

Roseberry to Clarinda 21

Salisbury to Glasgow 15

Centralia to Cnlumbia 22

Bliles of main lines and branches. . 2204

From the above main line and branches as in-
dicated, it will readily be seen that the Wabash
connects with more; large cities and great marts of
trade than any other line, bringing Omaha, Kansas
City, Des Moines, Keokuk, tiuinc}-, St. Louis,
Chicago, Toledo and Detroit together with one
continuous line of steel rails. This road has an
immense freight traffic of the cereals, live-stock,
various productions and manufactured articles of

TRANSPORTATION.

the West and the States through which it passes.
Its facilities for rapid transit for the vast produc-
tions of the packing houses of Kansas C'it}- and
St. Louis, to Detroit, Toledo and the Eastern marts
of trade, is unequalled. A large portion of the
grain productions of Ivansiis, Nebraska. Iowa, Mis-
souri, Illinois and Indiana, finds its way to the
Eastern markets over the lines of this road. The
\Vabash has always taken an advanced position in
tariffs, and its course toward its patrons has been
just and liberal, so that it has always enjoyed the
commendation of the business and traveling public.
The road bed is one of the best in the country, and
is ballasted with gravel and stone, well tied and
laid with steel rails. The bridges along the var-
ious lines and branches are substantial structures.
The depots, grounds and general property of the
road are in good condition. The management of
the Wabash is fully abreast of the times. The
road is progressive in every respect. The finest
passenger cars on the continent are run on its lines,
and every effort made to advance the interests of
its patrons. The passenger department is unex- |
celled for the elegant and substantial comfort ]
afforded travelers. On several of the more im-
portant branches of the S3'stem. dining cars are
run.

Other Roads.

'^^Z MONG the other roads may be mentioned

^jlM the Toledo, Peoria & Western, which ex-

7; £i tends from tiast to West across Illinois,

^' from State line to Warsaw and Keokuk on

the Mississippi River. This road places Peoria in

direct communication and connection with many of
the leading roads of Illinois, having special traffic
arrangements with the Wabash and the Jackson-
ville Southeastern, for Chicago and St. Louis,
with headquarters in Peoria, with a total of about
two hundred and thirty miles. The Jackson-
ville Southeastern and the Peoria, Decatur A:
Evansville, with their varied traffic arrangements,
have opened up a territory for the large commer-
cial interests of the citj' to the southeast, and the
Lake Erie k Western and the Ohio, Indiana &
AVestern. together with the Cleveland, Columbus,
Cincinnati tfe St. Louis, and the Peoria & Pekin
Union, have extended iu a marked degree tlie
field and traffic for the operations of the growing
commercial and manufacturing metropolis of the
Illinois A'aliej'.

The freightage done by the steamers plying on
the Illinois River in the early days, furnished the
first transportation facilities, and is even now a
lively competitor for the trade between Peoria,
St. Louis and other Southern markets.

The Chicago, Burlington & Quincy with its vast
system and ramifications through Illinois, Iowa and
Nebraska, brings to the doors of Peoria the exten-
sive cornfields of the localities through which it
passes, and lays down by cheap rates, to the exten-
sive distilleries of the city, the cereals of the great
Northwest. This road also is a large competitor
for the passenger and freight business between Peo-
ria and Chicago.

Tlie Central Iowa, like the Chicago, Burlington
<fe Quincy, taps the great corn belt through which
it passes, und besides has opened u|) in the south-
ern portion of the county a vast coal field, thereby
assisting largely in the development of the wealth
of the county and city.

-^^^^

^^^^s^^fe

PEORIA COUNTY.

ILLINOIS.

IMTRODUQTORY.

jHE time has arrived when it
becomes the duty of the
people of this county to per-
petuate the names of their
pioneers, to furnish a record
of their early settlement,
'W'l^ an(j relate the story of their
progress. The civilization of our
day, the enlightenment of the age
and the duty that men of the pres-
ent time owe to their ancestors, to
themselves and to their posterity,
demand that a record of their lives
and deeds should be made. In bio-
graphical history is found a power
to instruct man by precedent, to
enliven the mental faculties, and
to waft down the river of time a
«afe vessel in which the names and actions of the
people who contributed to raise this country from its
primitive state may be preserved. Surely and rapidly
the great and aged men, who in their prime entered
the wilderness and claimed the virgin soil as their
heritage, are passing to their graves. The number re-
maining who can relate the incidents of the first days
3f settlement is becoming small indeed, so that an
actual necessity exists for the collection and preser-
vation of events without delay, before all the early
settlers are cut dowii by the scythe of Time.

To be forgotten has been the great dread of mankind
from remotest ages. All will be forgotten soon enough,
in spite of their best works and the most earnest
efforts of their friends to perserve the memory of
their lives. The means employe'd to prevent oblivion
and to perpetuate their memory has been in propor-
tion to the amount of intelligence they possessed.
Th'; pyramids of Egypt were built to perpetuate the
names and deeds of their great rulers. The exhu-
mations made by the atcheologists of Egypt from
buried Memphis indicate a desire of those people

to perpetuate the memory of their achievements.
The erection of the great obelisks were for the same
purpose. Coming down to a later period, we find the
Greeks and Romans erecting mausoleums and monu-
ments, and carving out statues to chronicle their
great achievements and carry them down the ages.
It is also evident that the Mound-builders, in piling
up their great mounds of earth, had but this idea —
to leave something to show that they had lived. All
these works, though many of them costly in the ex-
treme, give but a faint idea of the lives and charac-
ters of those whose memory they were intended to
perpetuate, and scarcely anything of the masses of
the people that then lived. The great pyramids and
some of the obelisks remain objects only of curiosity;
the mausoleums, monuments and statues are crum-
bling into dust.

To preserve the lineaments of our companions we
engrave their portraits, for the same reason we col-
lect the attainable facts of their history. Nor do we
think it necessary, as we speak only trutli of them, to
wait until they are dead, or until those who know
them are gone: to do this we are ashamed only to
publish to the world the history of those wliose lives
are unworthy of public record.

-c*'*'

•iStr^^ J//?'^A^^i^

JL^z-^zl^<-J2*^

^1-0UU^

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

193

P' JB33Q) f r [1J4 :FM1S«

'SS^!-

^T^^-'y^y.

OHIAS S. BRADLKY. The
rocoi'd of the life of Mr.
™ I'liacUej' is an interesting- one;
it is a record of energy, of
xa perseverance in the face of
ditlieiilties, and of success.
Throiigli tiie fift3'-six years of
liis life, some of it in shadow,
some of it in sunsliine, he re-
tained Ids simplicitj', hischeer-
\^ fulness and his belief in human
nature. We do not measure a
man's life by years, but b}' inten-
sitj". If we measure the life of Mr.
Bradley by the work he accom-
plished, then lie is the most venerable of men, not-
withstanding the fact that death called him hence
when less than three-score years of age. As a
prominent citizen of Peoria in its earlier history, we
are pleased to present his biography and portrait
to our readers. In connection with it the portrait
of Mrs. Bradley is also presenteii.

Kentucky was the early home of Mr. Bradley,
and in Mt. Sterling, that State, he was born Janu-
ary 21, 1811. lie came of substantial stock that
originated in Ireland, and was a son of Judge Will-
iam and Rebecca (Smith) Bradley, the former of
whom was Circuit Judge and lived for niany3'ears
in Switzerland County-. Ind. He served as a mem-

ber of the Indiana Legislature two terras, and for
a number of years was engaged in mercantile pur-
suits. Later he became interested in farming.

In the family of Judge Bradley by his first wife
there were seven children, of whom Tobias S.,
our subject, was the eldest. The latter was edu-
cated in the common schools of Vevay, Ind., where
he commenced his business career as a clerk in the
store of Judge Maliii, and with him he remained
several years. Finally going to New Orleans, he
began dealing in pioduce along the river, and in
the meantime was married, ^May 11, 18.37, to Miss
Lydia Moss. This lady was the daughter of Zela
and Janet (Glasgow) Moss, the f(jrmer of whom
was a clergyman of the Baptist Church and a Quar-
termaster in the Revolutionary War. He also held
a Captain's commission. After the war he re-
moved to Kentucky, of wldcli lie was a [lioneer
settler, during the Indian troubles repairing to
Bryant's Station for safety. After his first visit to
Kentucky he returned to the Old l)omiiiit)ii. mar-
ried and lived there about three years, then again
settled in Kcntuckj'. in 1794. After a residence
of ten years in Clark County, he wmit to Boone
Count}', and subsequently to Switzerland County,
Ind. Whileon a visit to his son in Peoria in 1839,
he died, and was buried in the Springdale Ceme-
tery.

After his marriage Mr. Bradley lived ten years

194

POUTRAIT AND BIOUliAPIIICAL ALBUM.

in Switzerland Count_v, Ind., and in 1847, remov-
in<f to Peoria, lliis State, oocupied himself in saw-
milling, farming, distilling and lianking. At the
time of his death, iMa^- 4, 18G7, he was President
of the First National Bank and of the Mercantile
J^ibrary Association, also City Treasurer. Politi-
cally he was alvva_vs a stanch Democrat.

Of the six children born to Mr. Bradley and his
estimable wife all died in infancy with the excep-
tion of one who lived to be fifteen years old. Mrs.
Bradlej' is a lady of nuin^' noble qualities, being
benevolent, charitable, and active in all good
works. She built, in 1885, what is kfown as the
Bradley Home for Aged Women, which furnishes
a comfortable retreat whither a goodly number
have already resorted to spend their declining
years in i)cace and quiet. She was one of the
largest contributors to the founding of the Brad-
ley Hospital, and seemingly employs her leisure
moments in devising some method by which she
may aid the unfortunate. She gave to the city of
Peoria forty acres, which, in honor of her de-
ceased daughter, is known as the Laura iiradley
Park, and is located at the cit\' limits on Main
Street. It is her |)urpcse at her death to add more
lanci to this. Nature has done much towards mak-
ing it a desirable spot for a park, which when
handsomely improved will be an ornament to the
city.

It is also the intention of Mrs. Bradley to have
established in the cit}- of Peoria, after her death, a
Polytechnic school for girls and boys, which will be
located on Main Street, on a tract of ten acres ad-
joining or near the Home for Aged Women.
Around this tract will be a bro.ad avenue. The
school will be as nearly free as ])0ssible, and its
doors will be opened especially to the l)Oj-s and
girls of the city and county of Peoria. In religion
Mrs. Bradley is a Universalist, belonging to the
church of this denomination in Peoria. She was
left with ample me.ans bj- her departed husband, a
goodly portion of which she disburses in a manner
cliaracteristic of her well-known thoug.'itfulness and
generosity. Her charities have always increased
in the ratio of her growing fortune. Honor and
friends have conic to her, and an old age crowned
whh blcpsings, but even more welcome is a con-

sciousness of a life well spent, and the glad re-
joicing in the inward voice sounded from the
depths of her being, " Inasmuch as ye have done it
to the least of these my brethren, ye have done it

unto Me."

. -;»!».-;»s» Jj^^f«5<?-.«5«J-.

'HOMAS S. LANE. No element has been
firiX "lo''*^ potent in the rise and progress of the

immense agricultural interests of I'eoria

County than its native-born citizens, and as a rep-
resentative of such this gentleman occupies an
honorable position in its farming community. He
has a well-conducted and finely-improved farm, in
Trivoli Township, and his home here is one of the
most attractive in the locality.

Our subject comes from one of the earliest and
best families of tiie township. (For an account of
his ancestr\' see biography of George J. Lane on
another page of this volume.) He was born April
17, 1847, in the humble log house which consti-
tuted the pioneer home of his parents on section
29, Trivoli Township. He had excellent school
advantages and as soon as he was old enough was
set to work to assist his father in his labors. At the
age of twenty lie received a certificate to teach, but
never availed himself of it as his attention was de-
voted entirely to agricultural [nirsuits. When he
was twenty-one he undertook the management of
the home farm on shares, and carried it on suc-
cessfully for some years. In 1873 he bought one
hundred acres of his present farm for 84.800, and
subsequentl}' sold twenty acres of it which was
timber land.

Mr. Lane did not take up his residence on his
farm until 1882. By the quiet force of persistent
labor, directed by a thoughtful, well-trained mind,
wise judgment and constant devotion to duty, he
has greatly improved his estate, and increased its
value. He is the proprietor of eight3'' acres of land
on section 29, forty acres on section 22. and seventy
iicres of the old homestead that belonged to his
father, on section 29, comprising in all two hun-
dred and ten acres of highly cultivated land. It
is well-fenced and well-drained, having twelve
thousand and three hundred tiles on it; beautiful

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

195

groves and a fine orchard a<lorn tlie place, which
is am|)ly supplied with hiiildings of a substantial
order. Mr. Lane's farm is well slocked, he having
some good cattle and draft horses, using two teams
in his farm work, and he makes a specialty of Po-
land-China hogs. lie onl}- operates one hundred
and twenty acres of his land and from the rental
of the rest lias a good source of income.

Mr. Lane was married in Trivoli Township in
his present house, before breakfast, June 11, 1868,
to Miss Ann M. Ralston. She is a woman of ex-
ceptionally fine character and her zealous help lias
greatly lightened tiie burtlen of his toilsome years.
She was born in Salem, Westmoieland County, Pa.,
September 2, 1845. Her father, Samuel Ralston,
was a native of the same county, and was a son
of one John Ralston, who was born in Ireland and
after his emigration to this country, made his
home in Pennsylvania, where he carried on farm-
ing until his death. He was a soldier in the War
of 1812. Mrs. Lane's father was a farmer in his
native State until he came to this county in 1865,
and settled in Trivoli Township. Later he bought
a place here, and a fevv years after that he bought
a residence in Farmington.and died there in Septem-
ber, 1877. He was a Presbyterian in religion and
strong in tiie faith. The maiden name of his wife
was Jane Buchanan, and she was born in the Key-
stone State, a daughter of David Buchanan, also a
native of that State, and a farmer and bkicksmith.
He was a soldier in the War of 1812. He came
herein 1870 with his wife and they died in Farm-
ington. Mrs. Lane's mother departed this life in
1878.

Mr. and Mrs. Ralston were the parents of eleven
children, namely: Margaret, now Mrs. J^eahman
of Yates City; Ann M.,wife of our sidiject; Alex-
ander, a resident of Montana who enlisted in
1862, in the Eighty -sixth Illinois Cavalry in which
he served until the close of the war; James C, a
grocer of Farmington who enlisted in the Eighty-
sixth Illinois Infantry, and served until the close
of the war; David 15., a resident of Lexington;
John C ; Lizzie, who died in 1870; Elijah M.. a
resident of Trivoli; Samuel II., commission raer
chant and dealer in horses at Chenoa; Laura, nov^
Mrs. Sceiber, of Denver; P^rank, who died in Den-

ver in 1888. Mrs. Lane's marriage with our sub-
ject has been blessed to them by the birth of three
children, of whom two are living: Wilbert C., and
James Otis. Their daughter Emma died at the
age of twenty-six months.

Mr. Lane is a man of sujierior intelligence, of
sound principles and of a blameless life, and is a
gentleman in the truest sense of the word. He is
serving his eighth year as School Director, and his
hand is seen in all plans to promote the educational,
religious or material status of the community. He is
one of the leading members of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church, has been Steward and held other church
ofIices,and is Superintendent of the Sunday-School.
No man has done more to establish the Methodist
faith here than he. lu 1884, he was one of the
most |)rominent of the men who were interested in
the building of the new church; he was one of the
building committee and did nearly all of the work
in connection with the erection of the building,
and he is now Trustee of the church. Our subject
has served on the Petit and Grand Juries. He
IS a Democrat in his political views but is not radi-
cal.

,^HARLES A. KRUMPE. The dairy busi-
ness is by no means an unimportant in-
dustry, nor the man who abl}- conducts it
undeserving of consideration among the capable
and industrious citizens of any locality. Among
those in this section who are carrying on this bus-
iness is Charles A. Krumpe, who resides upon sec-
tion 13, Kickapoo Townshij). He owns a fine
farm of three hundred acres, and a herd of about
one hundred cows. The dairy products are dis-
))osed of in Peoria, where his reputation is thor-
oughly established. Althougli Mr. Krumpe gives
his chief attention to the dairy business, he has by
no means neglected I he improvement of his estate,
but on the contrary has placed upon it an attrac-
tive residence and a full line of excellent farm
buildings.

Mr. Krumpe was bom in Germany November 28.
18.3.S, and reached the age of eleven )'ears in the
land of his birth. He then went to live with an

196

PORTRAIT ANDBBIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

uncle in Kiissia, remaining there until nearly six-
teen years old. when he embarki'd for America,
find, landing at IS'ew York, went to Butler County.
Pa., where he was engaged in farm work until about
I wontj"-t\vo years old. He then came to Peoria,
J II.. soon afterward entering the emplo}- of Peter
Fry, on whose farm he worked about fourteen
months. Since th.it time he has been engaged in
different occupations for himself, graduallj- accu-
mulating property, and since early in the '70's
giving his attention to the stock business, farming
and dairy work. He carries on an extensive bus-
iness in the latter lino, as has been iMeviously in-
timated.

The rites of wedlock were celebrated between
IMr. Krumpe and Miss Sabine Ditewig, in Peoria,
in April. 18G5. The bride was born in Germany
in 1842. Siie is a notable housewife, a woman of
intelligence, kindliness and devotion to her famil3\
Mr. and Mrs. Krumpe have four living children,
named respectively, Minnie, Frederick, Edward
and Ida. Minnie is now the wife of Frank Apple.
The parents have buried two children: Emma, who
died W'hen about two years old; and Charles, at
the age of eighteen months.

Mr. Krumpe luas served as School Director, but
does not aspire to oflicial honors. In politics he
gives his vote to the man whom he considers best
qualified to serve the people. Not only has he
acquired a good reputation as a farmer and dairy-
man, but he is regarded as one who deals honor-
ably by his ffcllow-raen, is deeplj- interested in the
public welfare and willing at all times to do what
he can to promote the best interests of the commu-
nity.

*» "^ * 3 »' S * I * ^

\f/OHN H. FRANCIS. This gentleman is one
of the most prominent business men of Peo-
ria, which has been the seat of extensive
financial operations on his part for some
years. AVhatever he has undertaken has been en-
tered into with a full determination to make of it a
success, in so far as that end depended upon his
efforts, and he has been rewarded by a first class
reputation in commercial circles and a large share

of worldly goods. His palatial residence occupies
a commanding site on the bluff overlooking the
city, in the neighborhood considered most desira-
ble for dwellings, and is fitted up in a manner that
is in keeping with tlie position occupied by those
who dwell therein.

The subject of this notice is the eldest son of
Littleberg and Polly (Hubbard) Francis, natives of
Kentucky, in which State the preceding generation
in both lines had been pioneers. Pennsydvania h:id-.
been the former home of the grandparents, the an-
cestors being German in the maternal line and
Scotch in the paternal. The parents of our subject
removed from Kentucky to Dearborn County, Ind..
during his childhood, he having been born in Lex-
ington, Ky., May 7, 1829. His youth was spent in
the Hoosier State, in attendance at the common
school, and in assisting in the labor performed on
the home farm.

When he had reached his nineteenth year young
Francis started out to battle for himself, drifting
West as far as Peoria, 111., where he began to work
at the cooper's trade, which he had learned at his
old home. After following his trade some five
years he bought a small interest in the distillery
business of Moss, Bradley & Co., continuing in the
firm until 1866, when a change was made and he
purchsed the interest of his partners. He then took
in a Mr. Zell, the style of the firm being changed
to Zell & Francis, and the business continued by
them a number of years. In 1878' Mr. Francis
disposed of his entire interest in the business, but
not being satisfied to remain idle, he built what is
known as the Monarch Distillery at Peoria, but
which was owned by the Monarch Distillery Com-
pany. The same year he organized what became
the Great Western Distilling Company and had built
the Great AVeslern Distillery, and also an interest
in the Peoria Distilleiy. where he operateil exten-
sively until he disposed of his entire interest to the
Whiskey Trust in 1887.

For some time past Mr. Francis has devoted his
time to looking after his financial interests in the
city, enjoying the pleasures which his abundant
means allow r.nd the society of family and friends
as he could not do when deeply immersed in busi-
ness affiiirs. He is a stock-holder in the First Na-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

197

tional Bank of Peoria, holding the office of Director,
and in the Spring of 1865 became a stockholder
and Director in the Adams Street Railway lines,
but lias since disposed of his interest. He was also
a Trustee in the Cattle Dealers' Trust. For seven
consecutive years he represented the First Ward as
an Alderman and he is at present an Alderman
from the Seventh Ward. In politics he is .somewhat
conservative, voting with the Republican party in
National matters, but in local affairs giving his
ballot to the man he thinks best fitted for the place.
Mr. Francis has been tvvice married, his first
companion having been Miss Harriet Ingali, of
this city, who was removed bj' death in 1872. She
left five children, viz: John H., Jr., William E.,
Hattie, Josephine and Bruce. Hattie is the wife of
William McMullen, an extensive lumber dealer in
Minneapolis, and Josephine, the wife of John C.
Wind, of Peoria. After having remained a widower
some two 3'ears, Mr. F'rancis became the husband of
Miss .Mary Ingali, a sister of his first wife and the
youngest daughter of William and Chastine Ingali,
of this city. This union has been blest bj- the birth
of one daughter — Maude. It would naturally be
supposed that the family of Mr. P'rancis would re-
cc ive the best advantages for mental and social
culture, and such has been the case.

Bdim ^1 nHQf

R. JOHN MURPHY has long been promi-
nent among the leading men of the medical
profession in Peoria, having practiced there
•nger than other living physician, although another
< minent member of the faculty. Dr. R. Boal, is
some years his senior. He came to Peoria in 181(1
from New Orleans, where he had gone from his na-
tive place, near Belfast, Ireland, to succeed to the
practice of a relative, long a distinguished phys-
ician of the southern metropolis. The climate of
the South not agreeing with Mrs. Murijli}-, he was
compelled to leave there, and after traveling ex-
tensively over the then West, finally settled in
Peoria.

At that time there was nothing es|)efially at-
tractive auout the miniature citv of Peoria, with

its twelve hundred inhabitants, and certaini}- there
was no indication of its ever reaching the proud
position which it now occupies. Dr. Murphy was
simply f.ascinated by the extreme beauty of the
locality, and while under the spell determined to
make it his future home, and has ever since re-
mained faithful to the city of his early choice.

Dr. Murphy is a graduate in medicine of the
University of Edinburgh, and a member of the
Royal College of Surgeons, London. His early
opportunities of gaining a thorough knowledge of
his profession in the lecture rooms and hospitals of
London and Edinburgh, have continued to be culti-
vated by him, and he has devoted himself to the
the study of the various departments of his profes-
sion and to the elucidation of the many intiicate
and complicated questions which are constantly
arising in medical science.

At the period of his arrival in Peoria it con-
tained a galaxy of [ihysicians, such as is rarely
met with in a provincial town. It was composed of
Drs. Rouse, Dickenson, Fry, Andrews .-uid Arn-
old, all of them able and profound members of
their profession, and also learned and cultivated
men. In conjunction with them, the subject of the
preserit sketch founded Peoria's first Medical and
Surgical Society, of which he has always continued
an active and interested member. It is now the
oldest organization of its kind in the State, and
has been of marked utility in molding the ethics
of the medical faculty of Peoria and in giving tone
and character to the profession in Central Illinois.
Of the founders of this societ3' Dr. Murphy is
now the only li\ing representative; all of the
others, full of 3ears and honors, have passed the
bourne from which no one ever returns. lie is also
one of the few remaining original members of the
Illinois State Medical Society, and of the Ameri-
can Medical Association. As a faithful and skillful
physician Dr. Murphy is widely known throughout
the West, and has made for himself hosts of warm
and lasting friends.

As was to be expected of a man of his natural
ability and extensive educational advantages. Dr.
Murphy speedily achieved a large and lucrative
practice, and bj' judicious investments, it is untler-
stood, has been able to amass rpiite a large fortune.

198

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

He li;is Ihe rf[)ulati()n of managing liis private af-
fairs with caiiliou and priulenc-e, and alliiough im-
mersed in [lis still large practice, and constantly
increasing private business, he finds leisure for his
vacations, and enjoys them with a zest and relish
which many younger men would do well to imitate.
In addition to his being a skillful and [.oinilar
medical practitioner. Dr. Murphy has long been
recognized as a man of fine literary tastes, spend-
ing his spare hours in his library, among bis books,
and filling the interstices of bis time in the culti-
vation of general literature. Although an able
writer and a fluent speaker, familiar with lustory,
and en rapport with all the important topics of the
day, he has never thrust liiniself prominently for-
ward in politics or religion, and has always avoided
every species of controversy. Seldom mingling
in general society, and usually reticent when he
<1oes, he is said to be a most agreeable companion
in private life, having under his control the con-
centrated results of omuiverous reading, and of
long intercourse with the world. His literary
education was received in the colleges of Belfast
and Dublin, he being an A. M. of the former.

ENRY W. JONES. In traveling through
It Peoria County, a stranger would note with
satisfaction the signs of prosperity and good
taste which mark manj' of its rural abodes.
One of the most attractive to be seen in Kickapoo
Township is that of the above-named gentleman, an
old settler, whose estate has taken on the character
of those who have so long occupied it. The entire
two hundred acres are carefully and intelligently
managed, neatness and order being every where
apparent and indicating that the owner makes of
farming both an art and a science. The buildings
which have been erected are well designed, commo-
dious and conveniently disposed, and are kept in
first-clais order.

In Culpeper County, Va., in 1782. Henry Jones
was l)orn. Some two ye.irs" later, near the Juniata
River in Pennsylvania, Sarah Zi;in opened her e^es

to the light of d.'iy. 'I'his couple, upon growing to
maturity, married and settled in Gallia County,
Ohio, whence they removed to Jackson County
about 1824. In 1831 thej- came to Peoria County,
111., settling in Limestone Township, on what was
known as Jones' Prairie or .lones' .Spring. There
Mr. Jones breathed his last about 1852, his wife
surviving several years. Their fauiilj' comprised
two sons and six daughters.

The sixth child in this family was born in Gallia
Count}', Ohio, February 7, 1819, and christened
Ilenrj- W. This lad came to Peoria County with
his parents when in his thirteenth year and grew to
manhood on his father's farm in Limestone Town-
ship. He remained under the parental roof until
his marriage, which occurred in the fall of 1842,
when he set up his own home in the same township.
About a jear and a half later he removed to section
34, Kickapoo Township, where he has continued to
reside, making farming his chief business and secur-
ing a merited reward for his industry and good
judgment.

The wife of Henrj' AV. .lones was known in her
maidenhood as Miss Rebecca Miller, and was born
in Shelby County, Ky., December 28, 1821. She is
the seventh in a family comprising six sons and two
daughters born to Reuben and Nancy (Sturgeon)
Miller. They were natives of the Blue Grass State,
in which the}' were married ami spent their wedded
life. Mr. Miller died in Shelby County about 1826
and in 1834 his widow with her family came to
Peoria County, 111. She settled in Kickapoo Town-
ship, dying therein 1872. There the marriage rites
of her daughter Rebecca and our subject were cele-
brated October 30, 1842.

To Mr. and Mrs. Jones twelve children have
been born, of wliom we note the following: Clar-
issa C. is the wife of Francis Peppard ; Lovina is
the wife of Charles Daly; Amanda E. married
Thomas Necorab; Charles P., who married Miss
Caroline Daly, died in Limestone Township, March
17, 1888; Lucinda is the wife of Robert Awl;
James H. married Miss Alice Brown and lives in
Kickapoo Township; Malinda J. is the wife of Al-
fred Kershaw, of Elmwood Township; John F. died
when about eleven years old; George N. died when
two years old; .\nna died in infamy; Adeline C. is

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

199

the wife of William Edwards, of Rosefield Town-
ship; Euphemia is the wife of Hicliard Lonsdale,
Jr., of Kiclvapoo Township.

Probablj' no citizen of Kiclvapoo Township li;is
borne a more active part in local affairs than the
subject of this sketch. He is deeply interested in
the welfare of this section of the country and e\ er
ready to bear a part in movements which will i)ro-
mote it. His fellow-citizens recognize this fact,
and also his intelligence and good judgment, and
have therefore called for his services as School Di-
rector, School Trustee, Highway Commissioner,
Justice of the Peace and Assessor. He is liberal
in his religious views, honorable and upright in his
dealings, kindly in social and domestic relations,
and deserving of that which he receives — the
tho>'ough respect and good will of his associates.
His wife is a fitting companion for a man of his
calibre, bearing well her part in the duties of life
and winning many friends thereby.

The paternal grandfather of our 'subject was
James Jones, a Welshman, who married Sarah
Howdeshell, who was of German and English ex-
traction. They were among the early settlers of
the Bucke3'e State, in ivhich they were gathered to
their fathers.

<ji| AMES CLARK. The subject of this sketch
is one of the oldest settlers of Peoria County,
having migrated from Adams County, Ohio,
(^j// to the place where he now lives in October,
1 S37. He was bo. n in Adams County, Ohio, June
4. 1815, where he grew to manhood and lived until
he was about twenty-two years of age when, as
tihiive stated, he removed to Peoria County and
settled in Hollis Township. Although he changed
his residence from one State to another, geograph-
icall}" considered, he has not clKinged his condition
raaUinKjnially viewed, but has passed his life in a
Slate of single blessedness. During the first winter
lie was a resident of this count}- he worked in the
lily of Peoria, and in the second spring hired out
to a Mr. Stephens, on the LaMarsh Creek, near
where he now resides. Thronnliout the second

winter of his residence in the county he employed
himself at his trade of a lilacksmilh, which he had
learned in Ohio. In addition to the trade above
mentioned, he had served an appprenticeship to
to the gunsmith trade. He carried on blacksmith-
ing upon the homestead in the intervals of opera-
ting his farm. He commenced the united operations
in 1840 and pursued them until nature proteste<l
too strongly, when he was compelled to relinquish
,ictive work and give himself up to the enjoyment
of the repose his long and busy life had rendered
necessarj'.

In 1858 our subject was elected School Treasurer
of the townshi]), and has held that ofHce continu-
ously to the present time. He was Road Commis-
sioner of the district for twenty-six years. He is a
Republican in political sentiment and takes an act-
ive interest in all questions affecting the welfare of
the district in which he lives. His age and well-
known integrity and intelligence make him an
authority upon almost nil questions arising for dis-
cussion in the neighborhood. He is held in hii^li
esteem bj^ all who are lu-ivileged to secure his .ac-
quaintance.

Mr. Clark lives on his farm. Init rents it and re-
sides on the same, where he is kept from the loneli-
ness he might otherwise feel by the jiresence of his
brother Esau, who makes his home with him. The
younger man was born in 1825, and removed to
this county in 1857, coming to his brother, with
whom he has since resided. Sarah, a sister of Mr.
Clark lived with him for a number of years until
her death in 1866. She was ihe widow of Sol B.
McCall, and had one child — F. M. McCall, now a
resident of Nebraska, removed hither from Ohio.

The parents of our subject were John and I<]liza-
beth (Gall) Clark. The father was a native of
Ireland and left that country when a child of four
years. The mother's family, the Galls, were of
Dutch ancestry and belonged to that portion of the
Dutch who settled New York and were driven
out by the P^nglish when the latter obtained poses-
sion of that State. George, the father of Mrs. Clark,
and grandfather of our subject, was a hero of the
Revolutionary War. His son George, served in the
War of 1812. At Hull's surrender he was taken
as one of the prisoners and, along with his com-

200

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

rades, put into a jien and fattened on raw corn.
Histoiy does not inform us how tlic experiment
succeeded, but the end of the war mercifull}' ter-
minated their sufferings and restored them to their
homes and civilized surroundings. The grand-
mother of our subject, the wife of George Gall, was
a Miss Susie Nichols, and was a fitting mate for a
brave man in those troublous times.

E^^^

\f7 B. MARTIN. M. D. Prominent among
I (© ''''^ successful physicians of Peoria Count}'
iJL^!^ may be properly mentioned Dr. Martin, who
h.is a finely equipped office at No. 303 Main Street
and an elegant residence at No. 1001 Perry Street
North.

The main incidents in the life-history of Dr.
Martin are esseutiall}' as follows: He is the offspring
of an excellent family, his father being Dr. James
W. Martin, who came to Peoria in 1862 and fol-
lowed his profession succcssfull}' until the illness
which resulted in his death, November 5, 1881.
He was born near Harper's Ferry, Ya., and in early
manhood married Miss Mary Gardner, of Ohio.
The}- located in Fairview, Fulton County, 111.,
where Dr. Martin. Sr.. practiced medicine. In
Peoria he became prominent and popular, and by
his genial disposition drew around him hosts of
friends. The wife and mother is still living, mak-
ing her iiome with her son, L. B. Besides the lat-
ter, five other sons survive: W. C. is one of the
successful dentists of the city; two of the sous are
in Iowa — John V., a physician, and Francis G., a
merchant; Eugene C. is traveling for the well-
known wholesale grocery house of Sprague & War-
ner, of Chicago; J. W. is a merchant at Mossville,
this State.

The subject of tiiis notice was born in Catawba,
Ohio, March 28,1845, and completed his education
at Galesburg, this State. He commenced reading
medicine under the instruction of his father and
then took a course of lectures in Rush Medical Col-
lege, Chicago, from which he was graduated in Feb-
ruary, 1868. Shortly afterward he entered upon the
re ular practice of his profession which he has since

followed with uniform success. He gives little at-
tention to politics with the exception of voting the
Republican ticket. lie was at one period the Pen-
sion Examiner of this district, but resigned in favor
of Dr. Spaulding, as the duties of this position in-
terfered too much with his general practice.

The subject of this sketch was united in marriage
with Miss Mary Hughes, October 1, 1868. Mrs.
Martin was born in Peoria and is a daughter of
William and Maria Hughes, the former of whom
settled in Peoria as early as 1845, and established
himself as a wholesale cooper. To the Doctor and
Mrs. Martin there have been born eight children,
who form an unbroken household circle which has
thus far been uninvaded by the destroyer. These
are named respectively, Leonidas B., Jr., Hughes,
Maude, Mabel. Ethel, J. W., Harry and Bruce. The
eldest son is stud3'ing dentistry but the others, with
the exception of the two youngest, are attending
fhoool. Mrs. Martin is a member in good standing
of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

—5- -^^ ^—

EZRA DOTY YARNES. One of the most
pleasant homesteads of Trivoli Township is
! that owned and in part operated by the gen-
tleman whose name heads this sketch, and who. as
a skillful agi'iiulturist and enterprising citizen, is
identified with many important measures in the de-
velopment of the resources of Peoria County. His
farm of one hundred and sixty acres is located on
section 20, and is embellished by a commodious
and conveniently-arranged residence, a good barn,
50x60 feet, and other outbuildings essential to the
proper conducting of a modern farm. His estate
is largely devoted to the cultivating of the vari-
ous grains, although he gives considerable atten-
tion to the raising of stock.

.Tracing his ancestry back a few generations, we
find that Isaac Yarnes. the grandfather of our sub-
ject, came from Germany at an early date, and
settling in Juniata County, Pa., there passed the
remainder of his life. He was a Captain in the
AV'ar of 1812. Among his children was one son,
Isaac, the father of our subject, who was born in

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

201

Penns3ivani.i and was a fanner by occupation. At
one time he made a trip to Ohio on foot, going as
far west as the JLaumee Kivcr, and returning to
the Keystone Slate, where he died in 1851. Po-
litically, he was a Whig, and in matters of religion
was a consistent ineniber of the liaptist Church.
His wife bore the maiden name of Jane Arnold,
and was a native of Juniata County, Pa., descend-
ing from German ancestors. Slie passed away in
Pennsylvania in 1880, having survived her hus-
band many years.

Tiie gentleman of whom we write was one of a
large fainil}-, ten children having been born to
his parents, of whom he was the third in order of
birth. The others were: Arnold, a farmer in Juni-
ata C'ounty. Pa.; Isaac, who is engaged as a farmer
in Fulton County, Pa.; Mitchell, a resident of
Juniata; Michael, who lives in California; Plia'be,
Mrs. Stewart, died in Trivoli Township; Mary,
Mrs. Grafton, is a resident of Harford County, Md.;
Anna M.. Mrs. Robison, also lives in Harford
Count}-. Md.; Elizabeth, Mrs. Grafton, lives in the
same county; Sarah, Mrs. Horning, is a resident of
Juniata, Pa. The natal d.a}' of our subject was
August 9, 1831. and the place of ills birth ]\lilliin.
Juniata County, Pa. He remained on the parental
homestead, attending the district schools, until the
age of eleven j-ears, when he began to work out.
His remuneration was not ver}' large, leceiving the
first five jears. respectively, §1.50, §2.50, 85, §6.50.
$8, $9 per month.

At the age of nineteen years our subject began
an apprenticeship at the blacksmith's trade in Juni-
ata County; later he worked at Mifflin as a jour-
neyman, being a practical blacksmith. Having, in
1857, accumulated §100 by hard work, he went bj'
rail to Logausport, Ind., and engaged in work as a
blacksmith and farmer for a few months. In the
fall of the same year he located in Pekin, where he
sojourned until the spring of 1858. Lancaster was
his next home, and there he erected a blacksmith's
shop and worked at his trade. He also bought
properly and remained in that place for four or
five years. Then, selling out, he removed to Orion
Township, Fulton County, 111., bu3ing eighty acres,
which he improved and cleared. There also he put
up a shop and labored as a blacksniilli in addi-

tion to his farm duiies, hauling the lumber for the
building from Peoria. He remained in Fulton
County until 1866. then going to KImwood Town-
ship, bought a one hundred and sixty acre farm
on section 36. To this estate eiglii}- acres were
added later, making two hundred and forty, which
he improved and embellished with substantial build-
ings, etc. He resided there until 1869, continuing
to manage u shop in connection with his farm
labor.

The present fine property of Mr. Varnes was pur-
chased in 1886, and two years later he traded one
hundred and sixtj' acres of his farm in Elmvvood for
a farm in Russell County, Kan., of one hundred and
sixty acres. His place is surrounded witii hedge
fence, neatly trimmed; the Land is tiled, and other-
wise improved. He still owns eighty acres in Elm-
wood Township, which is also improved. Perhaps
the most important event in the life of our subject
was his union with Miss Jane Kepner, which was
celebrated at the bride's home, in Delphi, Ind.,
July 20. 1858. This Lady w.as born in Pennsyl-
vania to Jacob and Mary Kepner, both natives of
Juniata County, where Mrs. A'arnes was also born.
In 1837 the father came to Ohio, and remained
during one winter near Chillicothe. In the spring
of 1838 he removed still further west, locating in
Carroll County, Ind., between Delphi and Logans-
port. There he put up a log cabin and improved a
farm comprising eighty acres of land. He died at
his home in February, 1886, at the age of eighty-
five years. Prior to the Civil War he was a Demo-
crat, but later became an ardent Republican. He
was a- consistent member of the Presbyterian
Church. The maternal grandfather of Mrs. Varnes
was Leonard (u'oinger, a native of Penns3dvania;
he was taken prisoner by the Indians, and kept
until almost starved to death. He finally escaped
bj' contriving a raft, on which he floated down the
river. He died in the Keystone State, the mother
also passing away in that State at the age of
eighty years.

Mrs. Varnes was one of a family of eight chil-
dren, namely: .Samuel, in Kokomo, Ind.; John, de-
ceased; Henry, also in Kokomo, Ind.; Catherine,
Mrs. Bimgham.am; Adeline, Mrs. Collins, both of
Indiana; Jane, Mrs. Varnes; Susanna, Mrs. Rhor-

202

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

habaiigh, deceased; Nancy, Mrs. Gardner, of Cam-
den, Ind. Samuel and Henry were in an Indiana
regiment during the late war, but escaped unhurt.
Mrs. Varnes was born in Juniata County, Pa., and
when two years old went with her parents to Ohio,
and later to Indiana, where she was rea'ed to
womanhood.

Unto Mr. and Mrs. Varnes ten children have
been born, namely: William A., who operates an
eighty-acre farm in Brimfield Township; Mary J.,
who is the wife of Lee Thurston, and resides in
Elm wood Township; Ezra D., Jr., who resides in
Trivoli Township and operates a farm; George
Stewart, Sarah E., Clara E., Emma M., and Albert
G. at home. Two children are deceased. Mr.
Varnes is interested in the cause of education, and
has served as School Director for many years. He
was Justice of the Peace for four years in Orion
Township, also as Township Clerk. Together with
his family, he worships at the Old School Baptist
Cliurch, in Hilmwood Township. an<l is Deacon
tliere. His part}' belief coincides with the i)lat-
forni of the Democrats, although he votes inde-
pendently, supporting the men that he considers
most fitted for the office, lie and his wife are held
in high esteem wlierever known, and are welcomed
in tl)e best society of the community.

^rp^^HARLES R. HIGGS. This young gentle-
' ^^ man bears the distinction of being the sec-
^_J(/ end largest landowner in Trivoli Township,
his fine property consisting of five hundred and
eighty acres, improved in three different farms.
Probablj- no other resident of the township, at
least in the agricultural districts, has prospered as
well in the same length of time, and certainl}- few
men of his years have been able to secure so in-
dependent a financial position.

The father of our subject was Thom.ns Iliggs,
bi.rn in Spratton, Northamptonshire, England, Oc-
tober 13, 1809, son of Joseph Higgs, the owner
of several houses there and the manager of a sheep
ranch. Tliomas Higgs was reared and educated in
liis native [ilace, and becoming of age determined

to emigrate to America, it being the intention of
bis brother James to accompany him. Their fa-
ther tried to dissuade them, and finally succeeded
in persuading James to remain at home, but
Thomas was firm in his determination. He crossed
the Atlantic, in the spring of 1831, on the sailer
"Caledonia," landing in New York City, Apiil 24,
among strangers, but with money enough to take
him back to England in case he was dissatisfied
here. Going to Elizabetlitown, N. J., he began
working on a farm for a Dr. Doty, with whom he
remained three years. There he was married, in
1834, to Miss Caroline Doty, a cousin of his em-
ploj-er, who was born in New Jersey in 1810.
After a time Mr. Higgs emigrated westward with
a one-horse wagon, bringing his wife and young
son Joseph to Central Illinois.

On reaching this county Mr. Higgs had money
enough to buy a quarter section of Government
land, which he did in Trivoli Township, building
a log house and beginning the improvement of
the virgin soil. In 1842 he built a frame house,
and on April 27, 1843. tlie former dwelling was
totally destroyed by the cyclone. Ii. 1.S39 his
oooil wife (lied, having Imnie him two ehildrcn:
Joseph, now a farmer in this township; and
Charles, who died at the age'of six months. The
land then occupied by Mr. Higgs is now owned by
our subject. On July 17, 1842, Mr. Higgs was
ajjain married, his bride being Mrs. Harriet (Rich-
mond) Holcomb, who ably assisted him in bnild-
ing up his fortunes and rearing their family to
honorable and useful careers. Mr Higgs con-
tinued his agricultural work, buying land from
time to lime, having at one time about one thou-
sand acres, eight hundred and eighty of which was
' improved real estate in I'eoria and Marshall Coun-

I ties.

Thomas Higgs was a thorough American in feel-
ini'. He came to America because he despised the

! oppressive government of his native land, and de-

I sired to escape from the tyranny and penury which
dominate that country. His first political atfilia-
lion was with the Whig party and la^er he became
a i:)emocrat. He belonged to the Methodist Epis-
copal Cliurch, in whieh he at one time held an

' official position. (»no of the most prosperous men

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

203

in the townsliip, tie was also one of the most pub-
lic spirited ami enterprising, donating liberally to
whatever woulil improve the condition of the
country. He helped to build and support the five
churches which were around him, and assisted
in the building of the railroad through the
township. His personal popularity was great, all
being his friends who knew him. lie died as he
had lived, without an enemy, the date of his de-
cease being August 26, 1889. To him and his
second wife five children were born, our subject
being the fourth on the familj' roll. The first-
born, Thomas, an attorney at Storm Lake, Iowa, is
now visiting his father's old home in England;
John W. lives in Trivoli Township; Carrie H.,
who married William Lawrence, died in this town-
ship; Mary Alice breathed her last when twentj'-
two years old.

The mother of our subject is a daughter of Na-
thaniel and Hannah (Durgee) Richmond, the for-
mer a native of Litchfield County, Conn., andthe
latter of Washington Count}-, N. Y. The par-
ents of Mrs. Richmond were Nathan and Lydia
(Pitcher) Durgee, the Durgees being of English
descent, and Grandfather Pitcher having been a
large landowner in the Em|)ire .State. Nathaniel
Richmond having gone to Washington Count}',
N. Y., from his native State about the time of the
War of 1812. acted as a teamster for the American
Army for a time. After his marriage he returned
to Connecticut, remaining until 1818, then remov-
ing to Jackson County, Ohio, where he was en-
gaged in farming until 1828. Selling his prop-
erty he then removed to the adjoining county,
Athens, where he became the possessor of five
farms, some of which he cleared. He was exten
sivel}' engaged in stock buying, driving his stock
to Eastern markets or to the coast, thus realizing
large profits and accumulating a fortune.

In 183G, Mr. Richmond came to Illinois and
buying about a section of land in Knox County,
used the balance of his capital in stock dealing.
He was out in all kinds of weather, driving his
herds to Ohio, New York, etc. He has swam
the Illinois River with five hundred head of
cattle, the process being to ride into the stream a
couple of times for trial, then get hold of some of

the gentler animals, foico them into the water, and
in that way get the entire herd over. In' 1841 he
engaged in pork packing at Pekin, and did a large
business, but having lost heavily bj' the failure of
some of the banks, w.as obliged to sell a great deal
of his i)ropert}'. Returning .again to farm life he
retrieved his fortunes to some extent prior to his
death, which occurred in Knox County, when he
had reached the age of eighty-one years. His
brothers were men of |)rorainence and popularity
in the East, all accumulating fortunes in profes-
sions or merchandising. His father, Edward Rich-
mond, a native of Connecticut, was a successful
merchant in Washington, but late in life removed
to Ohio, where he established several sons in mer-
cantile jiursuits in various cities. He was a son
of Sil.as Richmond, a native of England, who died
in Connecticut.

The mother of our subject was horn in Litch-
field ('(junty, Conn., February 12, 1816, being the
third in a family of eight children. She was two
years old when her parents journeyed by a river
boat and wagon to Jackson County, Ohio, where
she attended school in a log schoolhouse until
twelve years old. From that time until her first
marriage, November 9. 1834, she lived in .\thens
County. She was united with Capt. John llol-
comb, a native of Virginius, Vt., with whom she
came to this county with a team, their location
being in Hollis Township. Capt. Holcorab owned
some four hundred and eighty acres at the present
sice of the village of Mapleton, upon which they
located, building a log house on a side hill, where
they resided until his death, in 1838. Mrs. IIol-
comb then disposed of her dowry and went to live
with her father in Knox County, remaining there
until her marriage to Mr. Higgs. While in Knox
County she taught school one summer. She had
two children by her first marriage: Eliza, who
married Benjamin Alward and lives near Canton,
Fulton Count}'; and Charles, who died when four
months old. Capt. Holcomb had been in this sec-
tion prior to the Black Hawk War, during which
he served as Captain of a company in Gen. Still-
man's regiment, spending the most of bis time in
scouting. He helped build Ft. Clark.

Our subject was born in this township May 2,

204

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

1850, reared and educated here, learning farming
in boj'hood and having a natural inclination to-
wards stock, of winch he made playmates when
young. When of age he came into possession of
sixty acres, which he began farming for himself,
living nt home until his marriage, July 25. 1876.
to Miss Olive D. Gove. This estimable lady was
born in this township, being a daughter of James
K. Gove, a native of Maine and an earlj' settler
here. After their marriage Mr. and ;\Irs. Higgs
settled on his father's farm, of which lie took the
entire charge, doing a successful business. He has
bought land at various times, eighty acres ad-
joining the old homestead having cost him 16.000.
He rents some of his land, personally p.aymg his
chief attention to the stock business. He feeds
two to three cars of hogs and some cattle, and
raises hogs, cattle, and horses extensively. He
was at one time engaged in raising mules, making
money at that business. He has about two hun-
dred head of sheep, raising Cottswold and Oxford
Downs.

The home of Mr. Higgs is brightened by the
presence of four children — Alice L.. Thomas A.,
Hattie M. and Charles L. He is an active member
of the Democratic party and of the Methodist
Episcopal Church.

ATTHEW GRISWOLD. One of the old-
est and most prominent men of Peoria is
the above named, who is now dealing in
real-estate. He has been identified with
the business interests of tliis citj' for half a centur}'
and none stand higher in financial circles than he.
His character is unimpeachable, and the interest
which he has taken at all times in public enterprises
of an educational or moral value, stamp him as a
man of excellent judgment and great intelligence.
John L. Griswold, a brother of our subject, was
born in the Empire State, in the year 1808, and
came to Peoria in 1839. He first entered into busi-
ness with A. G. Curtenius, the connection continu-
ing until the death of Mr. Curtenius in 1857. The
business was then continued by John and Mattiiow

Griswold until 1863, when the former sold out and
retired. He was connected with the gas company,
interested in the building of the bridge, and was for
some time Director of the Second National Bank
of Peoria. He departed this life January 4, 1883.

The gentleman whose name initiates this sketch,
was born in the Empire State, November 20, 1816,
being a son of N. L. and Ann (Sickles) Griswold. tiie
former a well-known importer of New York City.
Matthew remained in his native city until 1840,
when he came to Peoria and entered the business es-
tablishment of Iris brother and Mr. Curtenius. He
continued an emploj'e of the house until 1845,
wlien he became a partner. The grocery business
was continued by the brothers Griswold for some
3-ears after the death of Mr. Curtenius, but finally
disposed of by them after the}' had won a most
excellent reputation, and realized a fair degree of
profit from their labors.

Our subject had become interested in real estate,
and continued in the buying and selling of lands
and houses. He has added more than one sub-
division to the city, and yet retains extensive in-
terests in cit}- property. For a long period he was
Secretary of the Gas Company, of which he lias
been Director for over thirty-five years. He was
Treasurer of the old Peoria Wagon Bridge Asso-
ciation from 1849 until the bridge was sold to a
Mr. Cole. He was connected with the old library,
of which he was a Director, and President of the
Board until it was merged into the City Library.
He is now President of the Peoria Public Library,
wliich was organized over ten years ago. and has
been active in the building of the block by the Li-
brary Association. He lias no political aspirations,
being content to simply- deposit liis vote, which is
a Democratic one. For fortj'-one years he has been
one of the members of St. Paul's Episcopal Church.
He is now a Warden and a member of the Build-
ing Committee for the new edifice which is being
erected on the corner of Monroe and Main Streets.

An important step in the life of Mr. Griswold
took place November 8. 1849, when he became the
husband of Miss Charlotte Young, of Balston
Springs, N. Y. This cultured and most estimable
lady was called from time to eternity November 30,
1884. She was the mother of four children, three

c^^z.-<^M--^ <377^

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

20"

of whom survive to mourn the loss of a devoted
mother, and console their father in iiis bereave-
ment. Tliry are Mar}', wife of A. W. Littleton, of
Quiney; Nathaniel, who married Miss Nellie Ho-
gue livf's in Peoria, and is engaged in a vvliolesale
cracker business; Louisa, wife of Warren L. Pierce,
a coal dealer of Peoria; Charlotte, who married
William Larkin, is now deceased. Her death took
place at her home in Chicago, August 16, 1890.

*OSIAH FULTON. On the opposite page is
presented a portrait of this venerable gen-
tleman, who is distinguished as being the
ffi^JJ oldest living pioneer of Peoria County. He
was one of the earliest settlers of this county, hav-
ing come liere seventy-one years ago. For many
years he was actively engaged in agricultural pur-
suils in Richwood Townsliip, in wiiose early his-
tory he was a prominent figure, locating here when
it was scarcely more than a tract of wild prairie.
His name is indissolubly associated with its growtli
not only as a practical farmer, but also on account
of the prominent part he took in the (idministration
of its puljlic affairs. He is now an honored inmate
(if the home of his son George, where he is pleas-
anljy spending the declining }'ears of an honorable
life that has passed tlie ninetieth mile stone on the
[With of an eventful existence.

The parents of our subject. James and Jane
(Crow) Fulton, were natives of Lancaster County,
Pa. In an early day they removed to the wilds of
what is now West Virginia, and settled witliin
eight miles of where Wheeling now stands, and
where Mr. Fulton was engaged in operating a saw-
mill on the banks of the Ohio. He finally built a
boat, and in it he and his family floated down the
Ohio to Cincinnati, and after remaining in the vi-
cinity of that city a short time, again took to the
river and started for another settlement. After
living in different places, passing through many
liardships, and meeting with various fortunes, the
family at last arrived at Ft. Clark, on tiic present
site of Peoria. The fnithful mother finally suc-
cumbed to the trials and privations of pioneer life.

dying in 1828, on the land now occupied hy Syl-
van Park. The father died in 1827, in Ohio,
whither he had gone to transact business, and in
his death Peoria County lost a useful and active
pioneer. To those worthy people were born four sons
and two daughters, Josiali being the third child in
order of birth.

He of whom we write was born within eight miles
of where Wlieeling, W. Va., now stands, February
19, 1800, being the date of his birth in that beauti-
fid locality. April 15, 1819, a bold, intrepid, self-
reliant youth, our subject and six others started
out on the long and, at that time, dangerous jour-
ney to the Prairie State, and finally came to where
Peoria now stands, which was then the site of a
primitive fort called Ft. Clark, garrisoned by a
troop of Government soldiers. They had culti-
vated about twenty-five acres of the land around
the fort and had planted the tract with corn and
potatoes, which formed a great addition to tiieir ra-
tions. Indians were much more |)lenliful than
white men wiien our subject first located here, and
there were but verv few evidences of civilization
ir. the wild, uncultivated country, where the settle-
ments were few and scattering, and the |)ioneers
had scarcely entered upon the vast work that they
gradually accomplislied in the development of the
countrj'.

Mr. Fulton has lived to see the results of his fel-
low-pioneers' labors, in which he bore an honorable
part, and has seen the wonderful transformation
that has changed old Ft. Clark from a primitive
fortification to a beautiful city. Of the small com-
pany of men who made that eventful journey from
the little ^'irginiun hamlet to this county, our sub-
ject is the only survivor. Notwithstanding that
lie is upwards of ninety years old and in his pio-
neer life here suffered from the lack of many, we
might almost say, of all comforts, and of some of
the necessaries of life, and had to endure hard-
ships of which the present daj' and generation
can know nothing, he is still hale and healthy,
having scarcely ever been sick, and retains iiis
mental faculties to a marked degree. He has al-
ways made his home in Peoria County since com-
ing to this State, and his chief occui)ation has been
farming.

208

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Mr. Fulton was married in the spring of 1832,
in Peoria, to Jliss Augusta P. Huglies. a native of
Georgia. After a peaceful and happj' wedded life
of more tban ordinary duration there passed away
from tie scene of her usefulness the companion and
helpmate of our subject who for fifty-five years had
walked by his side, and had aided him greatly in
his life work b3' her wise counsel and cheerful help.
B\- their marriage they became the parents of ten
children, six sons and four daughters, named as
follows: Nancy J., Rebecca, Samuel, Elizabeth,
Joseph, M.<iry, George, Albert, Josiab, Jr., and Ja-
cob. Nancy is the wife of William .Sammis; Re-
becca is the wife of Edward ^lansBeld; Samuel is a
carpenter ;Elizabeth is the wife of Jacob \V. Slough;
Joseph married Sarah Henderson; Mary is the wife
of John E. JIcDerraott; George married Mary
Wahl; Albert married Emma Cartwright; .Fosiab,
Jr., died in 188G, aged forty-two years; Jacub re-
sides in Richwood Township.

Mr. Fulton's life record shows him to be a man
eminently worthy of all respect and esteem, and
these are fully accorded to him by the entire com-
munity. He was the first .Supervisor of Kichwood
Township, and held that office several years. He
has hold the office of Township Treasurer, and has
filled most of the important offices of the township
with great credit to himself and greatly to the ad-
vantage of the township. He was elected Magis-
trate for a period of four years, but declined to
serve. In his early d.aj-s he was a Whig in his
political views, but after the formation of the Re-
publican party he fell into the i-anks and h.is since
been its firm supporter.

RTHIR THOMAS BIRKET, a native of
Illinois, and a well-known prominent citi-
lii zen of Peoria, is one of the most practi-
cal and wide awake of the intelligent, en-
terprising business men of the county, and as an
extensive dealer in real estate, building and selling
houses etc., he has contributed his quota to the up-
building of this city, where he has a beautiful

home, replete with all the modern comforts and
conveniences. Bneh' located at No. 1799 Monroe
Street.

Mr. Birket w.as born in Tazewell County, Janu-
ary 10, 1843, a son of John and Marjory (Thomas)
Birket, natives respectivelj- of Lancashire, England,
and Ohio. The mother's parents came from Penn-
sylv-inia. John Biiket was one of the earlj- pio-
neers of Peoria, coming here in 1826, and be-
came prominent in promoting the growth of the
city. He entered the land now including the
location of the Peoria pottery, Gallagher and
Birket's first, secoml and third additions; Lake
View Driving Park; the Water Works, in short,
all the northe.istern part of Peoria. Mr. Birket
was pr.actic.1ll3- a carpenter and joiner, but he also
followed farming, coal mining and dealt in meat.
From 1839 to 1849 he operated a saw-mill near
in Washington,Tazewell County. In the latter year
he returned to Peoria, embarked in the real-estate
business and laid out an addition to the city. To
him and bis wife were born three children: John
Charles, of Peoria: William Armstead of Abbey-
ville, Reno Count3-, Kan.; and Arthur Thomas.

The latter of whom we write received excellent
educational advantages, and having a natural ap-
titude for mathematics and a taste for civil engineer-
ing and surve3-ing,he fitted himself for the profes-
sion of a civil engineer and in order to pursue bis
studies to better ad vantage, went to England in 1862
and studied under the best masters there for a period
of little more than two 3-ears, and gained a thor-
ough, i.u'actical knowledge of his calling. Upon
his return to his native couutr3- be was honored
bv being appointed Deputy Surveyor of Tazewell
Couut3-. He held that position three 3-ears, when
he came to Peoria and accepted the responsible
office of Civil Engineer for the city. He act^d in
that capacity for two 3"ears and w.as then elected
to the office of County Surveyor, which position
! he held the ensuing six years, it having been
through the influence of Thomas King, that he en-
tered the business of land surve3-ing here. He did
the transit work as assistant on the preliminar3'
work for the line of the Indiana, IJloomington &
I Western Rtiilro.ad. In 1875 he served the cit3- .is
: Alderman and since then for several terms. He is a

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

209

prominent member of the Independent Order of
Odd Fellows and the Old Settlers' Society. He
is a Republican in iiulilics and always was. Since
taking up his residence in this city, Mr. Bir-
liet, by his honorable, upright course in a busy
life, has proved a great addition to the citizenship
of the city with whose interests he is so thoroughl}-
identiBed and in business and social circles he is
recognized as one of our best men.

Our subject has been ver^' happy iu his domes-
tic life as b}' his marriage with Miss Katie R. Lup-
ton in June 1866, he secured the devoted compan-
ionsliip of one who fills in a perfect measure the
position of wife, mother and friend. Mrs. Birket
is a daughter of Thomas S. Lupton, of Cincinnati,
Ohio. Four children complete the home circle of
our subject and his estimable wife. Arthur T., who
married Nellie Pratt and resides in the cit}-; May
Belle, Alonzo L. S. ; and Katie R. The three
30unger children reside at home with their par-
ents.

--*--^^^^

(^p5*)H0MAS TALLYN, deceased, was for man}'
//^ years a member of the farming communitj' of

V J this county, owning and managing a fine farm

on section 32, Radnor Township, which is still in
the i)ossessiou of his widow and family.

Our subject was a native of Devonshire, Eng-
land, where he was born in the month of March,
IH2(), and there amid its pleasant scenes, the first
twent^'-seven years of his life were passed. At
tliat age two of the most important events of his
life occured, his marriage and his emigration to
the United States. The maiden name of the woman
of his choice was Elizabeth Fry, she being the
daughter of Thomas and Betsey (Snell) Fry, and
a sister of Thomas Fry, and of Mrs. John Ford,
whose biographies appear in this volume.

Immediately after his marriage our subject came
with his bride to America, where they hoped
to establish a home for themselves. After land-
ing on these shores the}- came to this count}', and
nearly a year later located on section 32, Radnor
Township. They were among the pioneers of this
regiiin and in the busy y('ar^* that followed our sub-

ject developed and improved a valuable farm where
his wife and children have a comfortable substan-
tial home.

August 14, 1876, the useful career of our sub-
ject was brought to a sudden close by his prema-
ture death. Nine days before that he had fallen
from a stack of grain, and received mortal injuries.
His death when it seemed that many j'ears of use-
fulness were before him, was a sad blow to his
family, to whom he had ever been an affectionate
husband and a wise father, and the community
was deprived of a valuable citizen whose work
h.ad greatly aided in extending the agricultural in-
terests of the township.

Mr. Tallyn was happ}- in his married life, i)os-
sessing in his wife a companion and helpmate who
sought in every way to aid him, and ever looked
carefull}' after the comforts of the household. Their
marriage was productive to them of eight chil-
dren whom they named, William W., Thomas F.,
Elizabeth A.. Frank H., Lucy P., John A. and
Marj' B.;one child died in infancy unnamed. Lucy,
who w.as the wife of William Jones, died in Dunlap,
May 20, 1886. Mr. and Mrs. Tallyn were charter
members of the Kickapoo Baptist Church, with
whose good work Mrs. Tallyn is still identified.

/^EORGE W. DcMARS, Jr., is one of the
.'ll |_— , most enlightened and enter|)rising farmers
^^jjj and stock- raisers of Logan Township, and
is managing his extensive farming interests in that
community after the most approved methods. He
is a Pennsylvanian by birth, born in Dauphin
County, October 5, 1844, and is a son of George
W. and Eliza (Ranch) DuMars. His father was
born in Ilarrisburg, Pa., P^ebruary 4. 1805, coming
of an honorable lineage, the DuMars family orig-
inating in France. The mother of our subject was
born in the same county as her husband, Novem-
ber 5, 1812. She died iu their home in the Key-
tone State, December 6, 1850.

George DuMars, Sr.,is a son of one John DuMars.
who was born in County Tyrone, Ireland, his an-
cestors having left France and settled on that

210

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Islaud. His wife, Jane Mills, was born in the same
count}' as himself, and they came to the United
States in the spring of 1804. being six weeks on the
way, and took up their residence in Harrisburg,
Pa. He was a weaver by occupation and followed
that calling until he was unable to compete with
the numerous factories that sprang up in this coun-
try several j-ears after he settled in it. Later in life
he ran an hotel in Harrisburg. He and his wife were
at orie time members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church, but subsequently united with the Presby-
terians. He was a I-'ree and Accepted Ma?on. He
was the father of several children, namely, Thomas,
George W., William, James, and Mary, wife of Jlr.
Lambdin. The father of our subject was the
only survivor of those children, and w.is liberally
educated in the city schools of Harrisburg and in
an academy there. At the age of twenty he adopted
the profession of a teacher, and for thirty years
pursued it with success. During some period in his
life he was a clerk in a general store in Lingles-
town. Pa., and fur a short time was in business for
himself. In the spring of 1855 he started for Illi-
nois, traveling b}- rail to Pittsburg, and thence l)v
boat to this State, being two weeks on the way. He
lived in Tazewell Connty until September, when he
came to Logan Township, and purchased eighty-
seven acres of hand on section 7, where he dwelt un-
til March, 1889, when he became an inmate of the
home of his son George W., on section 9. In the
meantime he had been quite prosperous in his call-
ing and had accumulated one hundred and ninety
acres of land. For mauj' j-ears he was active in
public and political life. For two 3-ears he was
Supervisor of the township and also served as As-
sessor, lie was a man of strong mind, and w.as firm
and outspoken in his views on the issues of the day,
and in early life a Whig, joined the ranks of the
Republican party after its formation. He has been a
faithful member of the Methodist Episcopal Church
for many years.

Mr. DuMars has been twice married, the maiden
name of his first wife, the mother of our subject,
was Flliza Ranch, and she was a daughter of John
and Catherine Ranch, who were natives of Penn-
sylvania. Her father was twice married, and she
was the onl}' child of liis first union, and by his

second marriage he h.ad four children. Mr. DuMars
was the father of nine children by his first marriage
as follows: Catherine J., wlio died in childhood:
the second child died in infancy; Mary Eliza, wife
of S. S. Graham; John W., who was a member of
Company B, Eleventh Cavahy, and was present at
the battle of Shiloh, and died at Memphis, Tenn.,
June 22, 1862; the fifth child died unnamed;
Nancy J., the wife of William O. Norvall. of Mc-
Cook, Neb.; George W., Willijim T.,aud Dr. R. A.
Mr. DuMars' second wife, to whom he was married
March 22, 1863, was Sarah Ainsworth Allen. She
was born October 5, 1805, sind died September 15,
1869. She was a consistent Christian and a mem-
ber of the ^lethodist Episcopal Church.

George W. DuMars, Jr., of whom this sketch is
written, was a lad of eleven years when he accom-
l)anied his father to this State. He was educated
in the common schools, and afterward pursued a
line course of study at Worthing. Warner & Co.'s
College, from which he was graduated with honor.
He was thus well equipped for the battle of life,
and choosing the calling to which he had been bred
he purchased sixt}' acres of land on section 5, Logan
Township, and h.as ever since been a resident of
of this place, with the exception of two years spent
in McLean County. He had a farm in that county
which he sold on his return to this township, and
he repurchased eighty acres of land, of which he
afterward disposed at an advance, and then bought
all of the homestead. In the year 1888 he here
purchased the eighty-acre tract where he resides
on section 9, and is now the proprietor of two
hundred ,and forty-eight acres of land, which is
in a fine condition, its well-4illcd fields yielding
abundant harvests, and its neat substantial build-
ings, being an attractive feature of the landscape.

Mr. DuMars has been twice married. April 9,
1868, he was wedded to Sarah E. Shepherd, a native
of Logan Township and a daughter of Nelson and
Elizabeth (Rynearson) Shepherd, who were among
the earliest settlers of this county, coming here
from Pennsylvania at a ver}' early date. He and
his wife had a family of three sons and four daugh-
ters. The wife of our subject died in the spring of
1871, leaving one son — Charles E.

Mr. DuMars was a second time married, March

PORTRAIT AND HIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

211

11. 1875, taking as his wife Sarali E. McAlistcr,
who was born in Logan Township December 21,
1853, and is a daughter of James and Elizabeth
(Proctor) JIcAlister. Two children have born of
tiiis union — Arthur Eugene and Cecil Ainsworth.
Mr. and Mrs. DuMars are members in high
standing of the Methodist J^piscopal Church, and
among the loailers in its charitable and other good
works. Their home, the center of true refinement
and culture, is an attractive one, and their place in
the society of this count}- is among its best people.
Mr. DuMars is a well-rend antl educated man and
holds advanced views on all subjects, paticularly
in regard to politics, and since he cast his first vote
for a Presidential candidate for Gen. Grant, he has
been true to the Republican party.

^'-

EWTON C. DOrCiHERTY. Side by side
in their responsibility for the i)roper traiii-
'il: .^i ing of the young, stand the home and the
school, and inasmuch as to many a true home life
is denied, the moral and intellectual status depends
solely upon the influences thrown around them in
school days. It is therefore of prime importance
that the instructors of our land be men and women
of large hearts and grand characters, as well as of
mental culture and development. The office of
Superintendent of Schools is one of grave respon-
sibility, and he wha worthily fills it is entitled to
high esteem and an honored place on the scroll of
f^me, and it is the purpose of the biographical
writer to see that N. C. Dougherty is not passed by
"unhonored and unsung."

Mr. Dougherty is a native of the Ke3'stone State,
born on a farm in Chester County, near Kennet
Square, January 10, 1847. He is the youngest son
and child of Philip and Hattie (Perry) Dougherty,
, both natives of the same count}-. The father is of
Scotch-Irish extraction and the mother of English
descent, her grandfather having come to America
in 1700. Both parents are still living on the old
homestead, the father now in his eighty-second
and the mother in her eighty-first year.

The boyhood of our subject was passed in the

usual manner of a farmer's son, his studies being
prosecuted in the district schools until he was
fourteen years old. He then entered Newark
Academy, but six months later became a student in
the State Normal School, at Millersvillc. where he
prepared for college. In 1864 he matriculated in
I'nion College, in New York State, from 'which iie
was graduated in 1H(;8. The following year he
came to the Prairie State as Principal of the schools
in Morris, Grundy County, going thence to Mt.
Morris, Ogle County, where he became Principal of
the Rock River Seminary. This institution Is one
of .the oldest in the State, and from it have gone
forth some of the most talented men of the common-
wealth, among them Senators Cullom and Farwell,
ex-Gov. Beveridge, Hon. R. R. Ilitt, Chairman of
the Committee on Foreign Affairs, and the Hon.
James A. Rawlins, Chief of Gen. Grant's staff.

Mr. Dougherty remained at the head of that in-
stitution until 1878, when he came to Peoria and
took up the duties of Superintendent of the city
schools. He ranks among the best educators in this
State that has so long prided itself on the cfliciency
of its school system, and is out-ranked by few, even
of those in which settlements were first made and
schools first organized. His commanding personal
appearance is but the index of a brain whose
powers are sufficient to gras)) abstruse topics and
present them clearly and logically to less cultured
minds, and the heart that Ijeats in sympathy with
the needs of those in whom the hope of the Nation
rests. He is highly regarded as a citizen, popular
in the community, and endeared to his pupils by
many encouraging wjrds and helpful deeds. He
is a member of Temple Lodge No. 46, Free and
Accepted Masons, and Commandery No. 3. He is
also identified with the Congregational Church.

It would naturally be su|)posed that Mr. Dough-
erty would choose for a wife a lady of rare mental
attainments.as well as estimable character and social
qualities. Such was the case ; she whom he won
being Anna, daughter of Dr. Richard Edwards,
now Superintendent of Instruction for the State of
of Illinois. Thf.ir marriage rites were celebrated
at the home of the bride's parents, December 25,
1871, and they have three children, Mabel, Horace
and Ralph, who are developing talent and courtesy

212

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBU5:

under tlie exani|iU' :\\\'\ wise training of tlie fatlier
and mother. The Su|;erintendeiil's dwollins' on
Ea«t Bluff Street is llie center of a circle that in-
cludes the best and most talented residents of the
city and frequent visitors from otlier cultured so-
ciety-.

AMES A. WONDER, who entered the Gov-
ernment service in November, 1889, as
United States Storekee[)er. has become well
known in IVoria by reastm of a lonu r.esi-
dence and a connection with the [irotcclive measures
ailoptcd here. He is a respected member of the
(irand Aimy of the Republic, commemorating by
his connection with that order the days which he \
spent ill campaign life and on fields (jf battle dur-
ing the dark days of the Civil War. He comes of
loyal ancestr\', his maternal grandfather having
been a member of Gen. AVashington's body guard
during the entire period of the Revolution. His
own connection with the army began during the
Mexican War, when he was a drummer boy at Ft.
McHenry. His father had objected to his going
to Mexico, but was finally prevailed upon to give
his consent and to |)ut liiin in the ch.arge of Ca[)t.
Goodv.'in H. Irvin, with whom be got as far as the
flirt mentioned.

Our subject was born in jMitHiii County, Pa..
October 14, 1829, and begun his residence in Peo-
ria in 1857. Here he entered a sawmill as fore-
man, but soon taking the Pike's Peak fever made
bis way to Colorado in search of a fortune. Like
many another he soon realized the habit of the
'•fickle jade" to fly from those who would woo her,
and not being able to pick up the precious metal
.as he had expected he returned to Peoria in the
condition known as being ••dead broke." Here he
secured a position on the police force, retaining it
until the outbreak of the Civil War when he en-
listed as a private in Company A, Fort^'-seventh
Illinois Infantry. He was iiromptly made drum
major and commissioned by Gov. Yates. The
Forty-seventh was sent to St. Louis, assigned to
Fremont's command and took part in the battles
of Osage Bridge and Island No. 10, together

with the minor conllicts and tedious duties of
campaign life which fall to the lot of all soldiers.
Mr. Wonder followed the destinies of the regi-
ment until a general order was issued in 1863 for
mustering out all commissioned drum majors, when
he returned to the North.

After reaching Peoria Mr. Wonder took a posi-
tion in the Provost Marshal's office remaining
there until the affairs of the office were closed up.
He llien re-entered the (lolice force, becoming Cap-
tain, a jiosition which he held four years. This
was prior to the days of a Chief of Police in the
city and as Captain, Mr. Wonder accomplished sev-
eral needed reforms in the service. In 187"2 he be-
gan work in the shops of the Toledo, Peoria k
Warsaw Railroad Compan}'. wlierc he labored al-
together eight years, although not consecutively,
as he alternated it witii police service. He after-
ward became depot master and finally entered
the Government service as before mentioned.

Mr. Wonder was fortunate in securing for his
wife a lad}' of estimable character.domestic virtues
and pleasing social qualities. This was Miss Emma
P. McKee, of Lewistown, Pa., with whom he was
united August 31,1853. The union has been blest
by the birth of two sons, named respectively: Will-
iam S. and James F. A peaceful and law-abiding
citizen, a man of intelligence and good habits, Mr.
Wonder is respected as he deserves and his wife
is nowise behind him in the esteem of those who
know them.

ANIEL H. FLAG LORE, JM.D.. is num-
bered among Peoria's successful practiti-
tioners of physics and surgery. He is a close
student whose sole ambition has been to
succeed in the profession which he chose — a desire
which has met with an admirable reward. He was
fortunate in being surrounded in bis earlj' life by
the circumstances which enabled him to study in
the best schools and fit himself as thoroughlv as he
wished for his battle of life.

Dr. Flaglore was born in Newburg, N. Y.,
whence his father. Valentine Flaglore, removed to

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

213

New York City in 1840. The \-oiith was given
every advantage, incliuliiig the privilege of at-
tending the New Yorlc Classical Institute, immedi-
ately after his gratUiation from which he began
the study of his chosen profession with I'rofessor
Williaras.of Cincinnati Medical College. After three
years of study with that able anatomist and physi-
cian, he entered Bellevne Hospital and Medical
College, whence he took his degree after a three
years' course.

In 18G6 Dr. Flaglore came West and began
pr.actiee in Bureau County, this State. He next
spent a 3ear in Lhillicothe, whence lie removed to
Glasford, remaining there until 18.S2. He then
located at Peoria where he has Iniilt up a most ex-
cellent reputation, both as a professional man and
as a private citizen. In the midst of his busy
career he finds time to pursue ins investigations,
deeming it his duty as well as his [ileasure to learn
all that is possible in those fields of science which
Imve a hearing upon his profession. He is a mem-
l)er of the Masonic order and one of the most
prominent Druids in the State, having repeatedly
held the highest honors in that excellent fratern-
ity.

An important step in the life of Dr. Flaglore was
t^iken in 1868, at which time the rites of wedlock
were celebrated Itetween him and Miss Hannah M.
Hinkle. a native of Peoria. It would naturally
be supposed that the lady whom Dr.F'laglore desired
for a companion would have a cultured mind, a
sincere symijathy in his pursuits, and a kindly na-
ture. Such is the case and Mrs. Flaglore discharges
her duties cheerfully and concienlionsly.

^w)OHN WILSON. The experience of this
gentleman has been a varied one, and many
an intereslintr tale might he tell of the
■\§!// scenes he has witnessed or i)articipated in
during former years. He occu|)ies a pleasant resi-
dence on Pecan Street, Peoria, and within the walls
of tlie home friends find a cordial welcome and
generous hospitality dispensed with grace. The
subject of this notice is at the head of the Wilson

AVholesale Grocery Companj-, which does a busi-
ness of about $900,000 per year, and is interested
as stockholder or proprietor in other affairs of im-
portance. There are few men now living in Peoria
who are better versed in the growth of this city
and the elements that have led to its prosperity
than Mr. Wilson, who came here in boyhood and
has virtuallj- grown with the town.

In England the eyes of Henry Wilson and Mar-
tha Wood opened to the light of day, and in that
grand country they grew to maturity and were
united in marriage. In 1827 they emigrated to
America, making their home in the Empire State
until 1835, when they came to Peoria. Mr. Wil-
son had been a farmer in his native land, but in
New York he engaged in clerking, and after com-
ing West ho resumed his old occupation, but did
not long survive to pursue it, being called from
time to eternity the fall after his rc'raoval hither.
The family at that time consisted of nine children,
four of whom yet live. They are Mrs. Jane
Wham, of tills city ; Ileniy, a farmer in Nebraska;
John; and William, who resides in the State of
Washington.

The birth of John Wilson occurred in Pongh-
keepsie, N. 1'. June 4, 1827. In that city he ob-
tained a part of his education, completing his
studies here. For a number of years he dev(<ted
himself to farming, and he also learned the cooper's
trade with (ieorge Woodruff. When the gold
fever broke out in 1850 he joined the throng of
fortune seekers, and with an ox-team crossed the
plains to tlie Fldoiado on the Pacific coast. He
followed mining successfully until 1852, when he
returned to the States, buying cattle in Iowa and
Missouri and driving them on east of the Missis-
sippi, where their sale proved a fair speculation.
He made a second trip to California, going via
Panama and walking across the isthmus. On his
return, in 1851t, he came by the way of Nicaragua,
New Orleans and up the Mississippi River.

Mr. Wilson established himself in the grocery
business after his return to Pcoria.continuing in that
line of trade two j'ears and then entering the cattle
business, buying extensively from the lieiul waters
of the Missouri, south to Texas, He now his a cattle
ranch in New Mexico, which has been eslal)lished

214

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

alioiil fourteen 3'efii's, :iiid in tl:e nianasjenient of
whicli a Mr. Holcomb is associated with tiim. He
has rniseil, bought and sold cattle, liavini!; a varied
ixperience in lliis business as well as in other oc-
cupations. He feeds as high as seven thousand
head per year. He is a member of the corporation
running tlie Hamburg Distillery at Pekin. of whicli
lie was for a luimber of 3'ears President. Tiic es-
tildishment has a capacity of twentj-flve hundred
bushels. The wholesale grocery business in which
Mr. Wilson is interested was entered upon by him
in 1885, in connection with C. E. Hale, who sub-
sequently removed to Tacoma, Wash.

An interesting event in the life of our subject
was the occasion of his marriage, June 5, 1855.
1 1 is bride was Miss Emily J., daughter of Samuel
Woudi'uff. a lady of refinement and womanly ac-
complislimeuts that merit and win regard. Seven
children have been born to the happy couiile. Two
of their ofTspriug, Cora and Alfred, died in child-
hood. The living are Arthur W. ; Everett W.,
wlio is in Pekin with the Hamburg Distillery;
Charles S., also in that place; John A., a travel-
ing salesman for the grocery house; and Freder-
ick L., who remains at home.

The political affiliation of Mr. Wilson is with
the Republican party. As a citizen he is reliable
and pul)lic spirited; as husband, father and neigh-
bor, kindly and cordial; and as a business man
honorable, enterprising and judicious.

^Jin^Hf

S>ERION RR08. These agreeable, hospitable
gentlemen rank among the successful farm-
ers of Trivoli Township, where they oper-
(@/ ate an estate consisting of one hundred and
sixty acres on section 29, and forty acres of timber.
They are engaged in farming and stock-raising,
making a specialty of the latter, to which tbey
have devoted more and more attention each year
since they took possession of the farm. They raise
from one hundred to one humlred and fifty head
of hogs of good grades, have twenty to thirt}' head
of road horses, and are the happy possessors of the
finest driving team in the township. This span is

of Morgan and Flying Cloud, and of Morgan Clay
blood. Their younger brother, John, who lives
with them, owns Eureka, an Abdallah and Morgan
stallion, whose record is 2:40.

The Yerion line is of French and German origin,
the remote ancestors of our subjects having been
residents in Alsace. Their grandfather, William
Yerion, a native of Pennsylvania, accompanied a
colon}- to Virginia, where he was engaged in farm
ing and distilling. About 1840. he came West,
located on raw land near Brunswick, 111. .and improv-
ing one hundred and sixty acres, resided thereon
until 1855. He then sold, bought another tract of
raw land in the vicinity of El Paso, farmed there
some five j'cars and then moved into the village.
Later he became a resilient of Iiloominglon, pass-
ing his last days there an<l dying in 1885, at the
age of eighty-four years.

Among the members of the family of Grandfather
Yerion was a son. William, who was born in Vir-
ginia, but became a resident of the Prairie State in
early boyliood. His first emplo^'raent away from
home was driving a team when the Illinois Central
Railroad was being built through Woodford
County. lie next bought forty acres of land in
that county, improved and resided upon it until
1881, when he took up his abode in Farmington,
Fulton County. There he spent the remnant of his
days, dying in 1885, in his fifty sixth year. He
was an active member of the Methodist Episcopal
Church and during the last thirteen years of his life
a local minister. He was a strong Democrat in
politics, a self-made man in finances, and an honored
citizen.

The maternal grandfather of our subjects was
George Patten, who was born in Ireland and brought
to America li}' his parents wdien eight years old.
The family settled in West Virginia, whence Grand-
father Patten removed to jNIcLean Count}', III. .and
later to Buchanan County. Mo. He was of the
Protestant religion. His occupation was that of a
farmer. His daughter Catherine, became the wife
of William Yerion, Jr., sharing his joys and sor-
rows until 1878, when she entered into rest. Like
her husband, she was an hf)nored member of the
Methodist Episcopal Church. She was the mother
of five children, four of whom arc living in Tri-

Judge Charles Ballance.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

217

voli Township. Tliese are, Adclia F., Alva A.,
George W. and .folin D. The fourtli child. Joseph
R., is engaged in tlie grocery business in Farming-
ton. Fulton County.

Alva A. Yerion w.is horn in El Paso Township,
Woodford Counts', November 1, 1857, and iiis
brother, George W., February 3, 1 860. Tlieircliihl-
liood was spent on the farm, their time being di-
vided between home duties and attendance at the
common schools, which were in session only dur-
ing the winter montlis. In 1880 tiiej' came to Tri-
voli Township, Alva being in the e_mplo3- of D. B.
Stookey four years, and George working at various
places until 1884, wlien they formed tlie present
partnership, renting the land from their stepmother.
Tliey began business with a capital of ^700, engag-
ing in farming, raising grain principally, and as
fast as possible turning their attention toward stock.
A" before stated, tliey are successful in the em-
ployment thoy have chosen, and as Lhey are still
comparatively young, are likely to become the
possessors of a comfortable fortune b}' the lime
tliey have reached middle age.

The elder of our subjects is unmarried, but
George W. took a wife January 10, 1889. This
was Miss Lucy, daughter of William H. and Re-
becca (Dunn) Meeker of this township, whose fam-
ily history will be found elsewhere in this work.
Mrs. Verion was reared in this township, educated
in its schooLs and Stted for usefulness in her sphere.
She is the mother of one child — Cena. She and her
Inisband are members of the Methodist Episcopal
Church at Concord. Both the Yerion brothers are
IJemoerats; Alva has been delegate to count}' con-
ventions and is now Constable.

«. : ;g^J^j^j>^: : .

!W ^^- (^'HARLES BALLANCE. The record
of the life of Mr. Ballance is an interesting
one; it is a record of energy, of persever-
ance in the face of difficulties, and of final
success. Through the long period of his life of
more than three-score and ten years, he retained
his enter[)rise of disposition, his cheerfulness and
his belief in human nature. As a member of the

bar he was quick in decision and prompt in execu-
tion; he saw at a glance the diflicult jwinl in any
case, and as readily pursued the means that must
be used to gain success. His portrait, which is
presented in connection with this account of his
life, will be welcomed by the many friends to
whom a long acquaiutaiicc had endeared him.

Tracing the ancestry of our subject, we find that
he was descended from an ancient familj', who re-
sided in Durham, England, and some of, whom ini-
migr.atcd to Virginia more than two centuries ago.
The grandfather, bearing the same name as he of
whom we write, was a Revolutionarj' soldier and
was killed during that famous conflict. Our subject
was a son of Willis and Rejoice (Green) Ballance,
natives of Culpeper County, Va., and during their
residence in Madison Countj', Ky., their son Charles
was born November 10, 1800. His boyhood days
were passed in Kentucky, and ambitious to obtain
an education, he did whatever he could to procure
the means, p" 1 for several years engaged in teach-
ing. He subsequently read law in Harrodsburg
with Judge Terrj' T. Hoggin, and v^s admitted to
the bar when about tsventy-nine or thirt}' years of
age.

Entering upon the practice of his profession in
Kentucky, Judge Ballance continued there two or
three 3'ears, and then, coming to Illinois opened an
office in Peoria in 1832, and there he was engaged
in active professional work until the time of his
death. His legal ability was of a superior order
and in all questions regarding the land laws and
rights of propert3'-holders he had no equal and was
famous as a laud-title Iaw3'er. During those early
daj's the settlers of Peoria were much troubled to
secure titles to their lands, on account of the
"French claims," and with unfaltering faith and true
courage he took up the battle in their beha.lf,
against these old claims. He waged a long and bit-
ter warfare against the French claimants, and at
last secured to the rightful owners the peaceful
possession of their property. He had in early
times purchased a large tract of land in the lower
end of the city, where some of those French claims
rested and as a result of his litigations, gained a
clear title to them, and their possession added
much to his wealtli. Besides attending to the inter-

218

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ests of bis large clientage, Mr. Baliance published
a histor\- of Peoria, a hook of two liuiiflred and
sevcnlj- pages, this being the last work of his life
and appearing in 1870.

His fellow-citizens oecasionallj- called Mr. Bal-
iance to devote some of his energy and valuable
time to aiding in the administration of public
affairs, and thus in 1852, he was Alderman of the
citj- from the First Ward, and in 1855, served very
acceptably as Mayor of the city. He passed from
the busy scenes of earth August 10, 1871, and thus
was rounded out and finished an eventful life that
was closely associated with the rise and progress
of the city and county. His death caused a gen-
eral feeling of regret throughout this section of
Illinois, where he was so well known and where his
ability and the strict integrity of his character
made hini respected and esteemed by the entire
comraunit}'. Mr. Baliance took a livel3" interest
in politics aud supported the Whig party so long
as it existed, and on the organization of the Re-
publican party he became one of its strongest sup-
porters.

During the Civil War Judge Baliance was a
stanch Union man, and raised, largely at his own
expense, the .Seventy-seventh Regiment. Illinois
Infantrv. of which he was ejected Colonel. On ac-
count of his advanced age he resigned before the
regiment was ordered to the front. His son-in law.
L3'sander R. Webb, w.is elected LieutenaiU-Colonel
of the Seventy-seventh Regiment and participated
in all the battles in which they took jiart. While
gallantly leading the men he was killed in the dis-
astrous Red River Expedition. His share in the
success of the Union was no inconsiderable one and
his name is held in grateful remembrance by the
people of Peoria and the citizens of Illinois, where-
ever patriotism is known.

The wife of our subject, to whom he was in-
debted for a happj' wedded life and the comforts of
a well-appointed home, survives him. She occu-
pies an elegant residence at No. 212 Randolph
Avenue, and in this beautiful home is quietly pass-
ing the declining years of a well-spent life. She is
a true Christian and a member of the Second Pres-
byterian Church, in whose good work she has long
1 ten active. She bore the maiden name of Julia

Schnebly, and was born in' Maryland, July 13,
1816. Her parents, Henry and Elizabeth (Suavely)
Schnebly. were natives of Washington County,
Md., where her father carried on farming exclu-
sively-. Concluding that slavery was wrong he
came West in the fall of 1835, and settled among
the pioneers of Peoria County-, where he died in
1852. He had been a Whig .all his life and in the
days of the incipiency of the Republican party be-
fore Us org.inization, he was at loss to know where
he belonged, and asked Mr. Baliance. "Where do I.
amidst the confusion, belong?"

The wedding of our subject and his estimable
wife was celebrated March 24, 1 836. They reared
nine children, of whom the following six are liv-
ing: Mrs. Daniel N. Bash, wife of Maj. Bash, of
the regular army; Mrs. James M. Rice, wife of an
attorney- in Peoria: Charles, now living in Omaha;
Willis H., is one of the owners and Secretary of
Gipps Brewery Company; Mary B.. wife of H. O.
Collins, an attorney of Los Angeles, Cal.;.John G.,
First Lieutenant of Twenty-second Infantry,
United States Army, now stationed at Ft. Keogh,
Mont. The deceased are Josephine R., first wife of
Daniel N. Bash; Julia, former wife of Leslie Robi-
son. and Amv. former wife of William S. Brackett.

NSLOW S. STEVENS. The agricultural
interests of this county have received an

added impulse within the last decade from
its native-born sons, who have come forward to aid
in the work so well begun by their pioneer sires in
developing and advancing the rich resources of
this region. Among these, the gentleman whose
name heads this sketch is deserving of notice. He
has a farm in Trivoli Township that is complete
in all its appointments, and ranks among the best
estates in the vicinity.

Trivoli Township is the birthplace of our sub-
ject, and here he was born on his father's home-
stead, June 6. 1856. He is a son of Joseph F.
Stevens, who was born near Danbury, Conn., in
1814. His father, Zadock Stevens, was also a native

PORTKArr A>'!) UIOItRAPHICAL ALliUM.

219

of tlial New England State. He was a n»a^<^n nnd
also cai rierl on farming to some extent, lieing the
owner of a small farm. His clays were passed amid
the rural scenes of his native place. He married
Maiy Ann Wliite. who traced her ancestry back to
the pilgrims of the "Mayflower."

Joseph Stevens had a farm in Connecticut, and
w.as engaged m agricultural pursuits there for sev-
eral years. In 1840, he came here with his father
and hrother Zadock and took a contract to build the
jail in Knoxville, and retuii.ed home the same fall.
While here he bought a tract of laiul in Trivoli
Township, and in 1844 he came by stage and water
and located on his i)lace, which comprised eighty
acres of hind in a wild condition. He added to his
land from time to time and now has one hundred
and twenty acres on seelions 3 and 4, besides the
original eighty forming bis homestead, on which he
resides with his son Zadock. He has attained the
venerable age of seventy-dve years, and was very
active until 1887, when he had a stroke of paraly-
sis. He has borne a prominent part in the public
and political life of the township, holding respon-
sible offices, vvas Supervisor tiu'ce years. Collector
the same length of time and Assessor two years.
Religiously, he is a believer in the Universaiist
faith. Politically, he stands stanchly by the Dem-
ocratic part\-. His wife, who is about sixty-five
years old, is his stay and comfort in his old age.
Her maiden name was Sallie Rice and she was born
near Louisville, K}'. Her father was also a native
of that State. He crossed the river into Indiana,
and after living there three years came to this State,
settled in Knox County near Henderson, where he
improved a farm, ami on it made his home until
death.

The parents of our subject had eight children,
named as follows: Plxjcbe, Mrs. JNIeeker, of Pawnee
County, Neb. ; ]Mar}-, who died here; Zadock, living
on the homestead ; Alonzo, who died at the age of
two years; Onslow; Ella. Mrs. Davis, of Pawnee
County; Eiiinia. Mrs. Bradley, who lives in Dan-
bury, Conn., near the ancestral home; Eva, at home
with her |)arents.

Onslow S. Stevens was given good educational
advantages in the public schov)ls and in two years'
allentlance at the High School. As in the case of

most farmers' lads, his services were early required
on the farm, and he remained at home until he was
Iwentj'-five, affording his father valuable assistance
in the management of his agricultural interests.
At that age he went to Nebraska to secure one hun-
dred and sixty acres of land in Pawnee County,
performing the entire journey thither with a team
and wagon. He made some improvements on his
homestead, which was four miles east of Pawnee
City, and had some breaking done, and the next
year exchanged it with his brother for the one
hundred and sixty he now owns and occupies. Fie
located on it and engaged in general farming and
stock-raising, and constantly improved the i)lace.
His wife's health became impaired and in the fall
of 1888 besought to improve her condition by
traveling through Iowa and Kansas. On his return
in the fall of the year he bought twenty acres of
land on section 3. The land had become impover-
ished and the buildings dilapidated, but by vigor-
ous work he has restored the place and brought
about a new order of things. In 1889 he put up
his present residence, and added other necessarv
new buildings. His farm comprises one hundred
and eighty acres, including the original homestead
located on sections 3 and 4, is well watered bj'
Clark's Branch, and forty .acres of it are devoted
to pasture, and he rents all but sixty acres. He
is actively engaged in raising hogs and in feeding
them, his preference being the Chester-White breed.
He has good draft horses and his place is otherwise
well stocked.

The wedding ceremony that united our subject
with Miss Hattie Orton. was performed in Trivoli
Township, March 3, 1881. One child, whom they
have named Maud, completes their happy house-
hold. Mrs. Stevens is a native of this State, her
birthplace being in Henry County. Her father,
Brenard Orton, came to Trivoli Township with his
parents when a boy, they being among the earlv
pioneers of the place. He married here and subse-
quently engaged in farming in Henry Count3\ He
finally returned to Peoria and from here wient to
Barber County, Kan., where he lives in honorable
retirement with his son.

Mr. Stevens is gifted with physical and intellect-
ual activity, decision of purpose and calm jud"--

220

POUTHAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ment, which traits are not onl}' useful to him in the
conduct of his affairs, but render him a most desir-
able public official, and in him Trivoli Township
has one of its most efficient Highwaj- Commission-
ers. He is serving his second year in this important
office, and is Treasurer of the Board. In his polit-
ical belief he is a Democrat. He has served on the
Grand and Petit Juries. He belongs to the Ma-
sonic fraternit}-. being a member of Lodge No. 192,
at Farmington.

^AMES H. BUCHANAN, one of the most
' popular j'oung farmers of Trivoli Township,
is pleasantly located a mile from Cramer, his
snug farm comprising eighty acres on sec-
tion 17, where he has made various improvements
such as might be expected of an enterprising and
successful agriculturist. When he took possession
of the place it was somewliat improved, but the
dsvelling was destroyed by fire in 1884. The same
summer he put up a nevv one, soon adding a barn
and other buildings, setting out orchards and
groves, and bringing the land to a fine state of im-
provement and cultivation. The farm is outlined
and divided by hedges and l)oard fences of stabilit}-
and neatness.

Mr. Buchanan is of Pennsylvania birth and an-
tecedents, belonging to a family of whom further
facts ma}- be learned by perusal of the sketch of
his father, Alexander Buchanan, which is included
in this Album. He was born near Cougruity,
Westmoreland County, March 9, 1856, his father
at tliat time being a merchant in the town where
our subject remained until nine years old. He then
went to Murrysville with his parents, living there
about five years. He attended the common schools
and finally entered the Turtle Creek Academy,
afterward the Laird Institute, pursuing his studies
there one term before removing from the State. His
boyisli games were frequently enjoyed over the
ground now occupied by the Murrysville gas wells.

Ill 1867 the family came to Illinois, traveling by
rail to Farmington and locating on a farm in this
county. There our subject bore a part in farm

work during llie summers, spending the winters in
scliool until lie was seventeen jears old, when he
entered the High School at Farmington, studying
there six months. The following winter lie en-
gaged in teaching in Timber Township, but one
term was sufficient, and determining that pedagogi-
cal labor was not his forte, he returned to his
father's farm. From that time until the spring of
1881 he stayed there, helping to pay for tlie ijjace
and develop its resources to the fullest extent.

An important step in the life of Mr. Buchanan
was taken September 1, 1880, when he became the
husband of Miss Elizabeth J. Shofe, their marriage
rites taking place in Peoria. The bride was born
•on Delevan Prairie, Tazewell County, November 7,
1856, has spent her time in that and Peoria Coun-
ties, much of the .time in Pekin and Peoria, having
the advantage of the excellent common schools
until twelve years old when she began to make her
own way. .She learned the tiade of a dressmaker
in Pekin and worked at it in that place until the
confinement proved injurious and she was recom-
mended to undertake the more healthful occupation
of housekeeping. She is refined in manner, dis-
pla3'S a decided taste for the beautiful in nature
and art, and is as highly esteemed for her virtues
as any lady iu the neighborhood.

In 1881 Mr. and Mrs. Buchanan located on their
present estate, where the}- now have so attractive a
home. The husband is busied with general farm-
ing, his principal crop being corn, and feeds much
of the produce to hogs, of which he raises full-
blooded Poland-Chinas. His drove comprises from
fifty to ninety head, and he likewise has full-
blooded Short-horn cattle, draft horses and road-
sters of excellent qualit}'. The equines are of
Fairy Gift and graded Clydesdale stock. The
dwelling is brightened by the presence of two in-
teresting children: Harry D. and Russell S.

Mrs. Buchanan belongs to the Presbyterian
Church, which her husband attends and supports.
He is a Republican, stanch and true. He has served
as School Director and in other ways assisted in
the better civilization snd material advancement
of this section. His intellect is naturallj^ keen, his
manners pleasing, and his character is such as to
win respect. No man takes greater interest in the

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

221

public welfare than he, and none enjoy more of the
friendslup of tliosc wlio know llieni. At one lime
he was the e.indulate for Township Clerk on the
ticket of tlie party tliat is in the minority licre, yet
he came within fifteen votes of securing the
election.

The fatlier of Mrs. Buchanan was horn in tiie
Buckeye State and learned tlie trade of a coo|)e!-,
following it there for a number of years. In the
'40s he came to Illinois, first locating in Tazewell
County, then coming to Penria County, and work-
ing at his trade in Pekin and Peoria alternatel}'.
lie now owns a home in the county seat, which has
been his ciiief residence for j-ears. For a time he
was eng.aged in farming in Timber Township. He
was a soldier throughout the ^Mexican War, and in
1861 enlisted in Company G, Forty-seventh Illinois
Infantry, serving three years in the Union army,
lie had the rank of Sergeant, participating with
the regiment in various battles until taken sick,
after which he was placed in ihe Invalid Corps at
St. Louis as an officer. He belongs to the Society
of Mexican War Veterans, to the Republican party,
and to the Methodist. Kpiscopal Churcli.

The mother of Mrs. Buchanan was Lucinda
Staples, a daughter of .bisiah Staples, an Indiana
farmer, that State having been her birl,hplace. Her
father made an early settlement in Washington,
Tazewell County, this State, finally dying there.
Mrs. Lucinda Shofe died in Timber Townshiii, tliis
count}-, in 1805, and her husband afterward mar-
ried Rohema Robbins. Mrs. Buchanan is one of
four cliildren. Her elder broliiei-, John, left Peoria
in 1S8G and has not since been heard from; Josiah
S. lives in Trivoli Township; Mrs. Mary K. Cole
lives in Peoria.

\|^UGENE F. BALDWIN, a well-known news-
mi paper man of Peoria and one of the propri-
/ l ^~' ^ ' etors of the Grand (Jpera House, was born
in Watertown. Litchfield County, Conn., December
1. 1840. His parents, Stephen and Julia (Pardee)
Baldwin, were early settlers of that section but na-
tives of the State. The fatlier was a deacon of the

Presbyterian Church about sixty years. He died
in Peoria at the home of our snhjoct when eiglity-
two years old. Stephen Baldwin first came West
in 1818, locating at Shawneetown, this State, thence
going to New Orleans where he sojourned a twelve-
month, tlienee returning to Connecticut. The
famil}- came West again in 1855, making their home
in Wisconsin until 18(;() when they removed to Ill-
inois. From that time until 1877 when he came
to live with his son, Stephen Baldwin resided in
various places.

The gentleman whose name initiates this notice
spent the days of his bo3hood in AVestern New
York, whence at the age of fifteen he departed to
Wisconsin, spending his time principally in Mil-
waukee until about twenty 3-ears of age. In 1800
he taught school in Clinton County, III., after
which he attended tlie Normal University a twelve-
month. Thoroughly patriotic, the Civil War had
not long been in progress ere he took arms in de-
fense of the flag, being enrolled September 17, 18G I ,
in Company B, Twelfth Indiana Infantrj'. Being
discharged a year later he resumed the profession
of teaching at Chillicothc, Peoria County, 111., but
in a short time removed to Peoria where in 1803
he was appointee! Principal of the old First Dis-
trict school. The same year lie entered the news-
paper business as local editor of the Tmimcript.

In 1868 Mr. Baldwin liouglit the El Paso ./o»/virt/
which he carried on eleven months, then started
the Peoria ]ici!ti'ii\ coiiLinuiug that publication un-
til 1872. His next enterprise was to edit the
Rock Island Union for the short period of three
months, after which he returned to Kl Paso, bought
back the Journal and personally conducted it un-
til 1873. He then formed a business connection
with Jacob B. Barnes and together they continued
the publication of tlie Journal until 1877. In
September of that j'car they returned to I'eoria,
soon afterward starting the daily edition of the
Journal, which has a large circulation, is a recog-
nized power in the journalistic work of Peoria
and vicinity', and as a shrewd, newsy sheet com-
m,ands the attention of visitors to the city.

Mr. Baldwin possesses recognized literary ability,
keen judgment regarding char.acter, and is able
to make cfifective use of logic or sarcasm as occa-

222

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

sion seems to him lo demand. In 1»81 be began
the construction of the Grand Opera House wliich
being completed liie following jear affords favor-
able quarters for the Journal.

The wife of Mr. Baldwin is a lad^' of acknowl-
edged intelligence and refinement, possessed like-
wise of the shrewdness and energy characteristics
of those born in New England. .She was known
iu lier maidenhood as Miss .Sarah Jane Gove. Mv.
and Mrs. Baldwin have three living children —
Ethel, Frank and ^lildred, and have lost one.
Their wedded life has covered a period of almost
a quarter of a ceutur}', the date of their marriage,
being April 23, 1866.

-^^

^^EORGE F. EMERSON. One of the prom-
Ill ,_-, inent wholesale establishments of Peoria
^^^ is that of Curamings & Emerson, dealers
in heav}' hardware, wagon and carriage stock,
with a large trade in this .State and Iowa. Af-
ter acting as book-keeper for the firm of Cum-
mings & Stone one j'ear, ^Ir. Cnmmings succeeded
and our subject continued with him three 3'ears as
book-keeper. In 1872 he purchased an interest in
the business and since that time has been adding
his ability and energy and since January, 1878,
the date of his partner's death he has had exclusive
control.

The gentleman of whom we write is a son of
Enoch G. and Harriet V. (Waters) Emerson, of
New England. The father was horn in Rochester,
Vt. and the mother in Lebanon, N. H. Enoch
Emerson had been obliged to shift for himself ]
fvvm boyhood, his father having died when he w.as '
four jears old. He learned the tanner's trade in
Boston, but after coming AVest devoted himself to
farming for many 3'ears. He took up his residence
ill Tazewell Count}' in 1831, remaining there until '
March 18()."), when he removed to Peoria and en-
tered the paper trade and the manufacturing of
paper collars. His business was burned out in
1SG8. He breathed his last Christmas day, 1874,
at the age of si.xty-two years. The parental house-
hdld consisted of seven children, of whom the sur-

vivors are: George F., Don Carlos and Achsah,
all living in Peoria.

George F. Emerson w.as born at Morton, Taze-
well County, April 4, 1847. His fundamental ed-
ucation was obtained in the district schools and
he further prepared himself for the practical du-
ties of life bv studying at AVorlhiugton ife War-
ner's Commercial College, from which he was grad-
uated in 186.5. He became assistant book-keeper
for D. .C. Farrell, subsequent!}' book-keeper for
Bohbcfe McClellan, and finally entered the estab-
lishment in which he now has an interest. He is
well fitted for a successful business career, having
inherited much of the shrewdness which charac-
terizes the Yankee race and combining with it the
energj' of the Westerner.

Mr. Emerson was united iu marriage November
7. 1871, to Miss Harriet C. .daughter of Nelson S.
and Mary (Monroe) Woodruff. The living chil-
dren of this union are a son and daughter — Frank
and Grace bj' name. Mr. Emerson belongs to the
Calvary Presbj'terian Church, is a popular and re-
spected member in the society in which he moves,
and has an excellent reputation among the business
men for his honorable dealing and financial tact.

OAPOLEON DUNLAP. The son of a pioneer
/ family, and a jiioneer himself, "Sir. Dunlap
; occupies an honorable position among the

farmers and stock-growers of thiscount}', who have
been instrumental in developing its agricultural in-
terests, and have been such potent factors in plac-
ing it on a sound financial basis, as one of the
wealthiest counties in the State of Illinois. He is
the proprietor of a finely improved farm on section
3, Radnor Township, where many years of his life
have been passed.

Our subject is a son of Smith Dunlap. who was
born near Can.ajoharie, Montgomer}' County, N. Y.,
and his mother, Eleanor Lane, was also a native of
that county. In 1838 they came to this State, and
located among the pioneers of Radnor Townshi|),
and here passed their remaining da3's. Mr. Dun-
lap became one nf our most suhslantial citizens,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

223

and for manj' years abl3- discharged tlie duties of
tlie office of Justice of the Peace.

Our subject was the youngest of a family of five
sons and five daughters, and lie was born on the
parental homestead, in the town of Sandy Creek,
Oswego County, N. Y., August 31, 1823. He was
a bright, self-reliant lad of fourteen or fifteen years
when he accompanied his father and mother to
their new pioneer home in this township, where he
has since lived. He earlj- acquired a sound prac-
tical knowledge of farming, and when he attained
man's estate, adopted that calling for his lifework.
He now owns oue hundred and eighty acres of finely
tilled land, on which he has erected a conveniently
arranged set of buildings, and has otherwise greatly
improved, and increased the value of his property'.

April 22, 1848, was the date of the marriage of
Mr. Dunlap with Miss Eliza Robinson, their mar-
riage being solemnized in Trivoli Township. Mrs.
Dunlap's parents, George and Maria (Gaylor) Rob-
inson, natives respectively of New Lisbon, Otsego
County, N. Y., and of Connecticut, were early pio-
neers of this county, coming here in the month of
June, 1836, and passing their remaining days in
Trivoli Township. They had six sons and six
daughters, of whom Mrs. Dunlap was tiie fourth in
order of birth, and siie was born in New Lisbon,
N. Y., January 2, 1829.

Our subject and his wife arc the parents of ten
children, namely: George, a clergyman in the Pres-
byterian Church, and at present settled in La Salle
County', who married Miss Sarah A. Hervey ; Eme-
line, wife of Harvey Comp; Thomas, who died in
infancy; Harriet M., wife of George V. Yates;
Franklin; Walter, who died at the age of seven
years; Flora, wife of James E. Watson; Ellen E.,
who died when about two j'earsold; Leslie S., and
Stella R.

Mr. Dunlap occupies an important place in the
citizenship of the county. He has represented the
township on the County Board of Supervisors one
term, has been Highway Commissioner for several
years, and has held various school offices. He is a
man of fine character and a blameless life, and hold-
ing serious and earnest views on all the importnnt
questions of the d.ay,' he is ever found firmly advo-
cating the right. He is a Prohibitionist in princi-

ple, but acts independently in politics. He and his
wife, who is a woman of rare intelligence, and is
highly spoken of on all .sides, are among the most
valued members of the Presbyterian Church, and
the lives that they lead testify to their Christian
worth.

- o<r>o .

<T/ OHN JACKSON. Among those old settlers
in Peoria County whose life labors liave re-
sulted satisfactorily and enabled them to
,5^^/' retire from active duties with a competence,
is the gentleman above named, who resides in Rad-
nor Township. His comfortable and pleasant
dwelling is situated near the village of Dunlap,
surrounded by two hundred imi)roved acres, where
waving grain, fruitful orchards, well-kept stock
and good farm machiner}- show what manner of a
man the owner of the estate is. Neatness and or-
der prevail about the home wherein good cheer is
abundant and hospitality reigns.

Our subject is a son of a worthv English couple,
Brj'an and Hannah (Jennings) Jackson, who emi-
grated from Yorkshire to the United States in
1819, settling in Delaware. There the husband
and father died in 1829, the wife and mother de-
parting this life also in AVilinington. Their family
consisted of ten sons and daughters, of whom our
subject was the youngest. He was born in York,
shire, August 10, i807, and coming to America
with his parents lived in Delaware seventeen years.
In the meantime he had grown to man's estate,
adopted the occupation of farming and already was
doing good work in that line of labor. In May,
1837, he came to this countj', since which date he
has continued to reside in Radnor Township.

Here Mr. Jackson took up the life of a pioneer,
displajing the indomitable energy, cheerful spirit,
hospitality and endurance that marked the true
frontiersman, and have made the name of pioneer
oue honored by all mankind who appreciate the
comforts of our later civilization. So much has
been told of the surroundings in this county at
that period, that it is needless for us to do more
than mention the rude log caliius, the distant
neighbors, the scarcity of what are called the com-

•224

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

forts of life as regards fooil and clotliing, the de-
tails of this picture being readily filled in liy the
imagination of the reader.

Realizing the wortli of a conii)anion, Mr. Jackson
wooed and won Mrs. Klizabetli (Jordan) Auckland,
daughter of Paul and Rosamond Rose (Graves)
Jordan, natives of Lincolnshire, England, in which
country they died, and widow of William Auck-
land, who breathed his last in Muskingum Count3',
Ohio, in 1850. She had five children by her first
marriage — Thom;is, Shadrach, Meshach, Elizabeth
and Ann Auckland. The wedding of Mr. Jackson
and Mrs. Auckland took place February 26, 1852,
and has been blessed to them by the birth of six
sons and daughters — Lavinia, Caroline M., Dora,
John R., Mary J. and Lincoln B. Lavinia is now
the wife of Moses Harlan ; Dora, of Charles Wig-
ginton; John married Miss Savanna Auckland;
Lincoln, Miss Isabella Wood. Mary J. died at the
age of tliree years.

Tlie neighbors of our subject liave reposed con-
fidence in him in m.aking him Highway Commis-
sioner and electing him to the various school olHces,
in every position gaining from him efficient and
faitlifid service. He and his wife are active mem-
bers of the Methodist Episcopal Church, ever striv-
ing to carry out in their daily lives the virtues
inculcated in Holy Writ, and winning the respect
of their acquaintances, over whom they wield an
influence toward all that is improving and ele-
vating.

VILLIAM G. BULL. From Colonial days
until now, the fondest dream indulged in
by thousands of dwellers in the mother
country, has been that of crossing the sea and be-
coming citizens of tlie United States, where mode-
rate finances would secure more of the comforts of
life, and better opportunities for educational and
social progress than in their native land. This
dream has Ijcen realized b}' man^- who liavc become
recognized as among our best men. One, now a
citizen of Peoria, tells us that in boyhood's golden
days he often thought of America as a proper lionie,
and now that many years iuive found him in llie

enjoyment of his desires, he can but think that our
skies are a deeper blue, our opportunities infinitely
greater, and our possibilities vastly be3-ond those
of his native land. Years of prosperity such as
ci>uld not have come to him there, have been his
lot here, and he has no reason to regret having
crossed the hrin3' deep.

Mr. Bull was born in Oxfordshire, England, Sep-
tember 18, 1823, being a son of William and Eliza-
beth (Grant) Bull. He learned the trade of a car-
penter, and became a contractor, continuing to
pursue that business after emigrating to Amer'ca,
which he did in 1855. His first location in tlie
New World was Akion, Ohio, where he remained
but a year ere taking up his abode in the Prairie
State. In Peoria he not only continued to contract
for the construction of buildings, but made a spe-
cialtj- of plaster contracts, and many houses still
standing are witnesses to his skill and honor in ful-
filling his obligations. He graduall}- drifted into
the handling and making of mantels and grates, and
in 1870, in connection with John F. King, era-
barked regularly in this industry as a specialty.
Tlie business relation continued until the present
year (1890), when a daughter, Emma E., took
charge and continues the business. Even after t;ik-
ing up the special work, Mr. Bull cntiniied to
make and fill contracts for the erection of buildings
and is still thus occupied.

Our subject has been twice married, first to Miss
Anna Adkins, in Oxford, England. The union re-
sulted in the birth of four children — I>mma E.,
Hannah A., Carolina, and Laura Maria. The last
two named are deceased. The second wife of our
subject was Mrs. Annabel (Cowperthwaite) Adams,
of Philadelphia, a lady of Quaker extraction, highly
esteemed for her quiet kindliness, amiabilit3-, and
general intelligence. This union has been produc-
tive of two children, one of whom, George, is now
learning his father's trade. The other child, Caro-
line F. is deceased. Mrs. Bull at the time of her sec-
ond marriage, had one daughter b3^ her former
husband, William Adams, named Williamanna
Adams, now the wife of Harry E. Sloan, of Peoria.

Mr. Bull came to Peoria during the Presidential
campaign, resulting in the election of Buchanan.
.Such a polilical struggle was [jossesscd of iiovelt3-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

227

to liini, and the liirht of suffrage witL so few re-
strictions, gave him new ideas of sovereignty. A
study of politics, and a gatliering of impressions
made iiini a Republican, and in a quiet, earnest way
he has alwaj-s affiliated with the party he first chose.
As a citizen, lie is held in the highest esteem, lend-
ing a hand to all local improvements calculated to
promote the beauty and welfare of Peoria, and
quietly, unobtrusively driving his business. He
has accumulated properly here, and as he s.ays,
'•makes more in three hours here, than he could in
England in a week." He is an honored member of
the Masonic fraternil}'.

//^) H-^K^^ES P. KING. Mr. King, whose i
(l( trait is shown on the opposite page, ne

^^^ little introduction to the citizens of Pe(

HARLES P. KING. Mr. King, whose por-

leeds
Peoria

County, as he is numbered among its leading men,
:ind has been for a number of years President of
the Peoria National Bank. He has held this posi-
tion since 1880, at which time the Second National
was merged into the present institution, the charter
of the Second National expiring. This was suc-
ceeded by the banking house of L. Howells & Co.,
which was organized January 1, 1860, and which
succeeded J. P. Hotchkiss & Co., organized in
1852.

The Second National Bank opened its doors for
business January 1, 1864, with a capital stock of
$•200,000. L. Howells w.as the first President, and
he held his position until his death. He was suc-
ceeded by Mr. King, who had for some years been
the Vice-President, and was one of the original
stockholders. When the bank went into liquida-
tion it paid r$275,000 to the stockholders. At the
time of the reorganization the old officers were re-
placed, and the new bank went into operation with
a surplus of $40,000. The officers were Charles P.
King, President; George McElvain, Vice-Presi-
dent; R. A. Culler, Cashier, and C. C. Lyons, As-
sistant Cashier. The Directors were Charles P.
King, George JIcElvain, C. C. L3-ons, Philip Zell,
L. F. Houghton, William .Tack, and N. C. Dougherty,
now Superintendent of Scliools.

The subject of this notice was born l'"('bru:uy 11,

1817, in the town of Adams, Jefferson County.
N. Y., and is a son of Henry and Betsey (Allen)
King, who, while Charles P. was an infant, removed
into an adjoining township. The father occupied
himself as a farmer and cari)enlcr, and Charles P.
remained with his parents until approaching his
major it}'.

Leaving his native State in the spring of 18.38,
Mr. King came to Peoria. When nineteen years
old he had bought his time of his father, paj'ing
him the sum of $12.50 per month until becoming
his own man. In the meantime he had learned
carpentering, and was well fitted b}- the habits of
industry to which he had been trained to make his
own wa3' in the world. The parents remained resi-
dents of Jefferson County until their decease.

Mr. King followed his trade one year after com-
ing to Peoria, then changing his occupation some-
what, engaged as second engineer on a steamer ply-
ing the Illinois River between Peoria and St. Louis,
and he was thus occupied three j'ears. In the
meantime he was becoming a prominent citizen, in-
teresting himself in local affairs, and after filling
other positions of trust and responsibility, was
elected, in 1853, a member of the Illinois Legisla-
ture, on the Democratic ticket. At the expiration
of his term of service he returned to Peoria and
engaged as a contractor and builder, also in the
engineering department of one of the leading dis-
tilleries, and was thus occupied until 1857. That
year he associated himself in partnership with the
firm of Lightner, Schimpferman <fe Co., which then
became the leading distillery company in that sec-
tion. Afterward Mr. Schimpferman disposed of
his interest in the concern and was succeeded by
Mr. Zell. The establishment was known as the Star
Distillery, under which title it was successfully
operated until 18G6.

During the above-mentioned year Messrs. King
& Leightner withdrew from the distillery, Mr.
King becoming interested in the banking business,
at which he has since continued. In the meantime
he, with others, organized the Savings Bank of Pe-
oria, of which he is now one-third owner, and also
has an interest in various manufacturing concerns,
owning considerable slock therein. He has alw.ays
miiiutaincd a warm interest in educational matters.

228

FOR TRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ami for severiil terms has served as Scliool iJireelor
in his district. He represented I'eoria Township in
the County Board of Supervisors five or six terms.
He east iiis first Presidential vote for Martin Van
Buren, the opponent of William Henry Harrison,
and uniformly votes the straiglit Democratic ticket.
Mr. Kinji- was first married in 1810, to Miss
Emily Jacobs, wlio became the motiier of four
children, only two of whom are living, both
daughters. Ada is the wife of M. Huffman, of
(Juincy, this .State; ^lay is the wife of W. H. Benton,
of Peoria. Mrs. Emily King departed this life April
28, 1888. Mr. King contracted a second marriage
in April, 1890, Mrs. Susan S. Clegg becoming his
wife.

^^^^i^-

y^?ILLIAM McLEAN. No resident of Chilli-
/ cothe. is lietter known in this part of tlie
county, than lie whose cognomen initiates
this sketch. For years lie was prominently identi-
fied with the business and social interests of the
place which he saw develop from a hamlet to a
thriving little city. Having retired from the ardu-
ous duties in which he was long engaged, he is now
enjoying all of the comforts and many of the luxu-
ries of life in a [jleasant retreat on the corner of
Fourth and Beech Streets. His lunne is one of the
most comfortable and attractive places within the
corporation, the grounds being adorned with beau-
tiful Bowers and shade trees, and the dwelling bear-
ing equal evidences of neatness and good taste.

Mr. McLean is a native of Edinlnirgh, Scotland,
born June 17, 1816, and the oldest child of Daniel
and Ann (Cameron) McLean. His fatlier was of
Highland-Scotch parentage, being the son of Will-
iam and Margaret (Dewey) ]McLean. who died in
Edinburgh when quite old. There Daniel McLean
was reared, learned his trade, and lived until thirty-
nine years of age, when he closed his eyes in death.
His widow, who was also of Highland stock, sur-
vived him a number of years, dyina- at the age of
fifty-five. Both were of the Presbyterian faith, as
were their progenitors. Their family consisted of
three sons and two daughters, of whom our subject
and a sister, Maria, are the onl}' survivors. The

sister came to America after her brother, and she
also is living in Chillicothe, the widow of James
Anderson.

The sul)je(-t of this sketcli was eleven years old
when his father died, and he was thrown upon his
own resources for a livelihood. He was bound out
for six years to learn the trade of a confectioner,
which he followed until he came to Chillicothe. In
the winter of 1842 he emigrated to America, mak-
ing his first home in St. Louis, Mo., and remaining
there until 18o3. He then removed to Peoria
County, and putting up a little stock of goods, be-
gan selling groceries in Chillicothe. His entire
stock did not amount to more than |;700, but from
this moderate beginning he has accumulated an
abundant fortune. His success has been quite re-
markable, his industry and economy, although great,
having been equalled by that of many men who
have failed to reap the reward he has done. Com-
bined with these important qualities has been a
business tact which made his labors effectual. He
owns a largo amount of fine business property, the
McLean l)locks being an ornament to the city.

Mr. McLean has been active in all that goes to
advance the interest of the city, giving liberally of
Ins means as well as of his lime and influence. He
is public-spirited in the fullest sense of that term,
and one of the most influential men in this part of
the county. He was one of the first Aldermen un-
der the city government. In 1884 he represented
the Twenty-sixth District in the State Legislature,
having- been elected on the Democratic ticket. He
was a member of the Committee on Public Build-
ings and (! rounds, that on River and Harbor Im-
IMovements, and the Labor and Industrial Commit-
tee. He also belonged to the committee whose
duty it was to visit the charitable institutions of
the State, and in the work of each and all, he took
an active part. He introduced bill No. 260, which
is an act to protect the public from imposition in
relation to iianned and preserved food, and the bill
was passed with little opposition.

For five years Mr. McLean has been a member
of the County Board of Supervisors. He is very
prominent in the Masonic order, being a Knight
Templar. Well informed on many topics, he is
especially versed in histoiy, that of his native conn-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

229

try flowing from his lips with fluency and correct-
ness. He lias traveled extensively, visiting many
prominent places in Europe, and the scenes and in-
cidents of his journe3ing are vividlj' portrayed by
liim. One of his pastimes is the construction of
typical cities, castles, etc., wliicli handiwork is beau-
ful and instructive. The stuniiness of the Scotch
character is exemplified in his life, and meets with
a corresponding degree of respect from those about
him.

The marriage of Mr. McLean and Miss Margaret
Menzies, was celebrated in Edinburgh, Scotland,
June 22. 1837. The bride was born in Glasgow,
May 22, 1817, but her parents, James and Dorcas
(Wilson) Menzies, spent the later years of their life
in Edinbiugh. They were active members of the
Baptist Church, and carefully reared their off-
spring. The mother died at the age of sixty years,
and the father wIhmi four-score and three. Mrs. Mc-
Lean is the second in a family of twelve children,
two (jf whom besides herself, came to America.
Tluse were a brother, Robert, now deceased, and a
si.sli'i-, Ann, wife of George McMurray deceased,
now living in Chillicothe. Mr. and Mrs. McLean
are the pai-ents of one child, Dorcas, who married
(Icorge P. Lester, a groceryraan in Chillicothe. To
this cou|)le have been born three children; Anna,
who is still at home; William, a sliijjping clerk in a
wliohsale house in Omaha, Neb.; and Edward,
wlio is with William Meade, the Chillicothe drug-
gist.

*LI MITCHELL. A stroll through the streets
|-«j of the thriving city of Chillicothe will jire-
|l — ^ sent to the view manj' business establish-
ments, and bring before the mind of the ob-
server many (jueries as to the standing of the
proprietors in financial circles, and the traits whicli
have led to their position. Should inquir3' be
made regarding a jewelry establishment located on
Second Street, and bearing the name of Eli Mitch-
ell, it would be fiunul that it was established in
June, 18G2, and from a small beginning a good
business was built up. A skillful artisan. Mi'.
Mitchell has a particularly good business in re-

pairing, his reputation being second to none in the
city.

Mr. Mitchell was born in Yorkshire, England,
not far from Hallifax, March 22, 1820, being of
pure English stock and a member of a family which
had been represented in Yorkshire for generations.
He grew to maturity in his native shire, learning
the trade of a jeweler in Ovcnden, and afterward
working as a journeyman. He married Miss Mary
Ashworth, who was born and reared in the same
part of England as himself, and is of an equally
pure English lineage. After the birth of five
children, including a pair of twins that died in
England, Mr. and Mrs. Mitchell determined to seek
a home in America, believing that here thej' would
secure greater prosperity and better opportunities
for their children.

The couple set sail from Liverpool on the '' Chi-
cago "in the latter part of April, 1858, passing
four weeks on the broad Atlantic. During this
time their j'oungest child died and was buried in
the great deep. They landed in New York, and
continuing their journey westward via Chicago,
located in Chillicothe, 111. Here Mr. Mitchell es-
tablished a permanent business, which has grown,
by reason of his thorough workmanship and relia-
ble dealings, into a flourishing enterprise.

Mr. and Mrs. iSIitchell well represent their race,
and have long been known among the bettsr class
of citizens, whose lives are spent in quiet useful-
ness. Mrs. Mitchell attends the Reformed Episco-
pal Church. Mr. Mitchell is a supiK>rter of the
Republican party. Four children have been born
to the worthy couple since they came to America,
but all died young. Their two living children are
Anna, wife of Lyman Andrews, a prominent grocery
dealer of Chillicothe, and Eli A., now I'ostmaster
here, who married Miss Helen Fisher, of this city.

The father of our subject was David Mitchell,
a mechanic and spinner for woolen cloth. He did
much work in the mechanical department of the
factory in which he was engaged, and was regarded
as a skilled workman in both lines of his acquire-
ments. He died at the age of fifty-six years, in
Elland. in his native shire. His wife survived him
and died at the age of sixty-two years. Both were
identified with ihe Methodist Church of England.

230

PORTRAIT AND BIOC RAPIIICAI. AI.BT'M.

They were the parents of six children, two of
whom died in early life. Edward. Grace and Eliz-
abeth are now livinii in Halifax, Yorkshire, our
subject being the only one of the family to come
to America. His brother is a carpenter, and he
and his sisters are m.irried.

■+f=^^=€-M-

Y OSEPH BRODMAN, Superienteudent of the
House of Correction at Peoria, is a native
of France, his natal daj' having been Xo-
vember <S. 1847. He w.as seventeen months
old when his parents emigrated to America, enter-
ing the United States via New Orleans, and making
their first home at Chillicothe, Ohio. Thence they
came to Peoria in 1855. where the father breathed
his last December 1, 1887, and where the mother
still lives. They instilled into their son good
principles, a desire for usefulness, and a determi-
nation to bear well his part in life; also giving him
the best educational .advantages which were possible
to them during his early years.

The gentleman of whom we write spent the days
of his boj'hood in Peoria, at the age of thirteen
beginning an apprenticeship in a furniture house,
his chief occupation being chair painting. He
worked with the same firm until 1865, when he en-
listed in the Union Arm}', but on examination was
rejected. He then look up work in a plow manu-
factory, where he remained until 1867, when he
left the TobeA' & Anderson Plow Works for a po-
sition as coach painter on the Toledo, Peoria &
Warsaw Railroad. He remained in the employ of
the road until 1882, when, without solicitation on
his part, he was selected jailor for this couutj-, un-
der C. L. Berry, Sheriff. In his official capacity
he acted from December 4, 1882, until July 1.
1890, when he was chosen Superintendent of the
House of Correction.

The appointment of Mr. Brodman to his present
position was due to liis verj' marked ability to con-
trol men, no man in the State having a better re-
cord as a dealer with criminals. He brings to his
new position an experience which has taught him
the value of various characteristics in the governor

anil the governed, and there is no doubt that his
control of the institution will redound to his own
honor and increase its success in the work for which
it w.HS founded. His methods are humane and
firm, characterized by strict justice and honesty
in the treatment of those under him. The polit-
ical affiliation of Mr. Brodman is with the Demo-
cratic part}'. He is a live, wide-awake man, well
informed on all topics of public interest, thorough-
going in whatever he undertakes, and to be relied
upon in an emergency. He w.is married October 20.
1872, to Fredrika Blumb. They have three sons —
Arthur. Elmer and Howard. Mrs. Brodman is a
native of Peoria, the daughter of Peter B. and
Marie (Kricger) Blumb. They were both natives
of Germany, and settled in Peoria in 1833, having
driven in a w.agon from Baltimore. Md., to that
city.

— ^>#^ —

ICHAEL E. ERLER. Among those who
//' ^ iV '^*'"b' came to this section of the country
111 may be mentioned the subject of this bio-
graphical notice, who is the oldest living
watchmaker in Peoria. He hiis aceumuLated
wealth, is one of the substantial men of the city,
and has Iiere a fine residence on Erler Street and
other valuable propert}-.

The parents of our subject were Michael and
Christina (Fischer) Erler, natives of Altenburg.
(Tcrmanj'. The father was born in 1805 and died
in the Fatherland in 1844, ere j'et he had attained
tlie meridian of life, he being but tliirt\--nine years
old at the time of his demise. The mother w.as
born in 1799, came to this eountrj' in 1853, and
died in Newburg. Washington County, Wis., in
1883, at the venerable age of e-ghtj'-four j'ears.

Three children were born to ilichael and Chris-
tina Erler, of whom our subject and his brother
August are the only ones now living. August
lives in Newburg, Wis. Michael, of whom we
write, was born in the city of Reichstadt, Germany,
June 23, 1829. and until he was fourteen years old
he attended school in his native town, obtaining a
substantial education. At that age he wasappren-
tice<l to learn the trade of a watchmaker with

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArillCAL ALBUM.

231

Richard Wagner, of Ronneburg, with whom he
remained four j'ears, acquiring in the meantime a
thorough mastery of the intricacies of his chosen
vocation. In his nineteenth year, after si)cnding
a year in Zeitz on the completion of liis trjide, he
set sail for America, taking pass.Tge at Bremerha-
ven on the sliip "Williams." After a voyage of
fort}' da\s lie landed safely at New York, where
he remained hut a short time. He tlien made his
way to I'eoria, and on the 1st of August, 1818,
arrived in this cit}-. He soon found oniploynient
at his trade, lie being an expert, very skiilful with
his tools, and during the ensuing two years was in
the employ of Fred Menkens.

At the expiration of that time Mr. Erler started
in business for himself, on Water Street. He was
very much prospered, as he applied himself closely
to the management of his alTaiis, and in 1870
had accumulated a sufficient competency to retire,
and did so, disposing of his business to John C.
AVoelfe. An idle life did not satisfy our subject,
however, and he subsequently entered Mr.
Woclfe's employ as watchmaker, that gentleman
being glad to avail himself of his services. As be-
fore mentioned, he has gathered together a hand-
some propert}-. He has a commodious residence,
with eleven acres of valuable land, besides several
tenement houses and many vacant lots. He is a
man of earnest, strong character and intelligent
mind, and his honesty and unswerving integrity in
all the traiisaction.s of life have gained him a high
place in the regard of all who know or associate
with him. Of a truly religious nature, he is a firm
Swedeuborgian in liis views of the right conduct
of life and of the hereafter. He contributes liber-
ally to the church, and to all things tending to ad-
vance the welfare of the community. In politics,
he is with the Republicans.

Mr. Purler was married in June, 1850, to Miss
Laura Leline, whose paients were early pioneers
here, and were also natives of Germany, as was
Mrs. Erler. The following five of the seven chil-
dred born to Mr. ami ;Mrs. Purler are living: Frank,
a goldsmith, who is married and resides in Peoria;
Max, a wealthy pliotographer of Peoria, is also
married; William, foreman of the Damas Keening
works at the watch factory in Peoria; Minnie, at

home with her parents; and Edward, who is en-
gaged with his brother Mas in the photograph
business. Malvine died in infancy. Bertha mar-
ried Philip A. Hensler, and died leaving a son.
Max, who is tenderl}- cared for by Mr. and Mrs.
Erler.

f; ESSE Y. FORNEY is classed among the
wealthy, liberal and progressive farmers
and stock-raisers of Peoria Count)', who
havi contributed a large quota towards its
material development and i)resent high financial
standing. He has for many years been identitied
with the extensive agricultural interests of Kicka-
poo Township, where he has a large and valuable
farm, and has actively aided in the greater part
of the growth of the townshi]).

George Forney, the father of our subject, was
born near Hanover, York County, Pa., while his
mother, whose maiden name was Elizabeth Young,
was born in that town, and there both she and her
husband died. Thej- had a family of six children,
of whom our subject was the fourth in order of
birth.

Our subject was born near Hanover, Pa., 'Slay
"24, 1822, and there grew to man's estate, making
his home in the place of his nativity till his mar-
riage. After that important event in his life Mr.
Forney came with his bride to Peoria, arriving
here May IT, 1852. The}' began their wedded life
in Kickapoo Township, of which they have ever
since been honored residents. Our subject has
given his attention to agricultural pursuits to some
purpose and by persistent toil, directed by excel-
lent judgment and sound business principles, has
accumulated a valuable property. He owns a
large farm of four hundred and sixty -seven acres,
under fine tillage, and he has erected a neat and
well-ordered set of buildings, and everything
about the place bears the impress of a master hand
and mind.

In March, 1852, Mr. Forney and Miss Catherine
Feeser unit<'d theii lives and fortunes, the cere-
mony that made them one being solemnized in
York, Pa. Mrs. F'orney is the second child in a

232

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

fsmil}- of four childien of John and Hannah (Sten-
ecifer) Feesor, natives of Maryhmd, in vvhich .State
she was born October 16, 1824. Mr. and Mrs.
Fornej- are tlie parents of six ciiiklren. of wliom
tlie following three are living: David married a
Miss Cannagahan; Georgia Etta is the wife of
James H.Ford; Luta M. is the wife of Cliaries
Ford. The names of the deceased children are;
Karl, wlio died when about four years old; Luella,
who died when about five years old; and Lillie,
who died wiieu ten years old.

For many years a resident of this county, Mr.
Forney is weU-known and his character for mor-
alitj', true piety, unostentatious character and lib-
eral spirit have won him golden opinions on all
sides, and no one is more truly respected than lie,
his wife sharing in the general esteem in which he
is held. His financial standing in the county
speaks well for his practical ability as a farmer and
stock-raiser of roundabout common sense and
acute judgment. In religion he is a Lulheian.and
the church of that denomination in Kickapoo finds
in him and his wife, two of its most conscientious
members and generous supporters. Politically our
subject adheres to the Republican party, Qrmly
believing its tenets the best calculated to enhance
the highest interests of the country wherever tliev
are carried out.

4f-::-i--~ «-

GEORGE A. WILSON, a native of Illinois
, and a son of one of its early pioneer fami-
s^^^^^ lies, has, since attaining manhood, taken a
conspicuous part in the public, political and social
life of this county, and is jironiinent as an attornej-
and business man, having an extensive law practice
in Peoria, his place of residence, besides being gen-
eral agent for the German Fire Insurance Com-
pan}% of Illinois, a home company. He is a veteran
of the late w;ir, and is deserving of all honor for
his patriotic course during those •■limes that tried
men's souls."

Mr. Wilson was born in Tazewell County, three
miles from Peoiia. on the parental homestead, De-

cemlier 9, 1840, being the date of his birth. He is
a son of the late J.acob and Erail^' (Donahoe) AVil-
son, natives respectivelj- of Tennessee and Ken-
tuck}', the mother being of Irish extraction, as her
family name indicates. They were married in In-
diana, and early in their wedded life, in the prime
and vigor of a stalwart manhood and noble woman-
hood, sought the wilds of this State to build up for
themselves and the children that might come to
them, a comfortable home. They located in Taze-
well Count}' in 1823, and were among its first set-
tlers. In 1824, Mr. Wilson entered a half section
of land in Fond du L,ao Township.which is still in his
name, and hy careful, patient and unceasing labor
made of it a valuable estate, and tor many yeais
was .actively engaged in agricultural pursuits, he
being a thorough practical farmer, as was his fa-
ther before him. At his death September 15, 18C9,
Tazewell County was called upon to mourn one of
its most faithful and sagacious pioneers, who during
a residence there of nearly half a century had
borne himself honorably in all the relations of life,
and was looked upon with esteem by a large circle
of friends and acquaintances. His wife survived
him many years, her death finally occurring No-
vember 25, 1888. .it an advanced age, and both are
now peacefully slee[)ing' in Springdale Cemetery.

Those worthy people were the parents of eight
children, of whom five are now living: Joseph F.,
a resident of Washington City; George A.; Charles
B., Deputy Circuit Clerk of Peoria County; Sarah
E. and Mary, residing at No. 710, Jackson Street,
Peoria. Joseph was a gallant soldier in the late
war. and his name is inscribed on the Roll of Honor.
He had his lower jaw shot aw,ay at Ft. Donelson
while bravely fighting at the front, and has an arti-
ficial jaw. Robert T. w.as a sutler in the army dur-
ing the war. and was killed by the guerrillas near
Helena on the Mississippi River, seven balls enter-
ing his body, killing him instantly. Thomas W.
was accidentally killed in Peoria.

George A.Wilson was reared in agricultural pur-
suits, but as he had a natural taste for learning, he
preferred entering one of the professions, and was
given every advantage to secure a liberal educa-
tion. He attended Eureka College three years. and
selecting the medical profession as the most desira-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

233

ble. he became a stmleiit in Dr. Arnold's office at
Peoria in 18.53. The breaking out of the war found
our subject still pursuing- his medical studies, lie
watched the progress of the war with grave interest
as the days darkened and matters continually grew
more serious, and at length he threw aside all per-
sonal aims and ambitions, resolving to offer his ser-
vices to the Government, and go out in the ranks
to aid in lighting his country's battles, and April,
1861, he enlisted in Couipany G, Seventeenth
Regiment Illinois Infantry, serving as private and
non-commissioned officer until Se[)tember 2, 18G2,
when he was appointed First Assistant Surgeon of
the Fcnu'teenth Cavalry, which position he retained
with honor until April 14, 18G5. The most im-
portant engagements in which he took an active
part were those of Frederick, JId., Vi. Donelson
and Shiloh, and as Surgeon he accompanied his
regiment on many a march and raid. While on the
Stonenian raid he was taken prisoner, and was in
Confederate strongholds at Macon, Ga., and
Charleston, S. C, about four months, and w.as fin-
ally exchanged the last of October, 1864, and glad
was he to breath the air of liberty once more after
ills experience of life in rebel dungeons.

As soon as the war closed Dr. Wilson established
himself as a medical practitioner, and was thus en-
gaged until he was called to public life in the fall
of 1868, when he received the compliment of nomi-
nation and election to the important otlice of Cir-
cuit Clerk of Peoria County, ut the hands of his
Democratic friends. His discharge of the duties
devolving upon him in that capacity showed him
to have been peculiarly adapted to the position,
and he retained the office during a period of eight
3'ears. He then abandoned official life for awhile to
engage in the practice of law, which he gave up in
turn to accept the position offered him by President
Cleveland iu 1885, as Collector of Internal Reve-
nue for District No. i). He was alert, faithful and
capable in that position, and made one of the best
officers who had ever held the office. .July 15, 1889,
President Harrison, in pursuit of the policy to the
"victor belongs the spoils," saw fit to remove Mr.
Wilson from the Internal Revenue office and re-
place a Republican. He then resumed tlie practice
of law, and also accepted the general agency of the

German Fire Insurance Company of Peoria, 111., a
home institution, whose affairs are in a nourishing
condition.

Mr. \Vils(jn and Miss Helen M. Hoskinson were
united in marriage February 23, 1867, and they
have established in this city one of its most charm-
ing homes. Mrs. AV^ilson is a daughter of John L.
Hoskinson, a well-known resident of Macomb, Mc-
Douough County.

Mr. Wilson is of a briglit, genial, frank nature,
a man of broad outlook, lilieral in his views, and
his tact and executive ability have gained him an
enviable reputation among the leading men of the
(;ity. He is very |)rominent in Democratic circles,
and received the nomination by acclamation for
Congress, at the convention held August 25, 1890.
He is conspicuously identified with the Grand
Army of Republic of this city and State, and was
Commander of his Post in 1880.

OHN WEAVER, M. D. The Homeopathic
school of medicine has an excellent repre-
sentative in Chillicothe in the person of the
gentleman above named. He is the possessor
of a cultured mind, well-bred manners, and a broad
knowledge of the principles of therapeutics as
understood by the medical school of which he is
an exponent. During the few years in which he
has been established in this thriving city his |)rac-
tice has been steadily growing, proving remunera-
tive to himself and valuable to the community.

The natal day of Dr. Weaver was February 20,
1852, and his birthplace near Canton, this State.
His preliminary education was obtained in the
public schools of Fulton Count}', and from his es-
timable parents he received the best of home
training. He began his medical studies with Dr.
W. B. Bolton In Cuba, with whom he read medi-
cine four years. He then entered the Homeopathic
Medical College, in St. Louis, Mo., from which he
was graduated in March, 1879.

The early practice of our subject was in (ilas-
ford, this county, but after some months he re-
moved to Canton, Fulton County, and formed a

234

POKTRAIT AND P.IOOTJ APIIICA L ALI5UM.

partnership with his fdriuer preceptor, wlm beeauie
a resident of Canton in 1878. and in 1887 entered
the ministry, and who is now a minister of the
Metliodist Protestant Church, in Princeton, Bureau
County. Tlie parlnershiji was dissolved after tliree
years' continuance and Dr. Weaver spent one year
traveling in the West witli his wife for the benefit
of her health. l?eturning to this State, lie located
in Chillicothe in .Tuly, 1884. and lias continued to
reside in this place.

The lady whom Dr. Weaver won for liis wife was
one with whom his acquaintance began in eariy
life, and with who?e character and acquirements he
was thoroughly acquainted. This was Miss Har-
riet A. Bolton, of Canton, daughter of his medical
preceptor. She was born in Allegheny Cit}-, Pa.,
October 22, 1856, but has lived in the Mississippi
Valley since she was five years old. In Iowa, Kan-
sas and Illinois she has resided at various times,
but the latter has been her home for many years.
Here she was mainly educated, hsr young lady-
hood being passed in Canton. She is the mother
of three children, one of whom died in infancy and
one, Louie V., when fifteen months old. The liv-
ing child bears the name of Mary B.

Dr. Weaver belongs to Calumet Lodge, No. 196,
I. O. O. F., in which he lias filled all the chairs.
He is also a member of George Washington Lodge,
No. 222, A. F. & A. M. His vote is cast with the
Democratic party. He and his wife belong to the
Methodist Episcopal Church.

The grandfather of our subject was Matthew W.
Weaver, of Scotch-Irish stock, and a native of Vir-
ginia. He married Miss Sarah Parrish, who was of
Irish extraction. In later life they removed to Ohio,
where the wife died when quite aged. The hus-
band afterward went to Canton, III., making his
home with his son, Jacob, dying about 1860 at
the extreme age of one hundred and one years and
seven months. He had never taken a dose of
medicine from a physician, being hale ami hearty
all his life.

The father of our subject was Jacob Weaver,
born in Loudoun County, Va., in 1806. He was
about sixteen years old when he started out on his
own account, and going to Oliio, settled in Cler-
mont County, when it was still a sparsely settled

legion. There he continued to live until 1840,
when he settled on a now farm in Fairview Town-
ship, Fulton County, III. Some lime later he sold
out and purchased other lands near Canton, dur-
ing the progress of his labors improving consider-
able land in the county, being ever hard-work-
ing and energetic. He finally, in 1884, disposed
of his landed estate and retired to Canton, where
his death occurred July 30, 1889. He was a Meth-
odist in religion and a Democrat in politics.

His first wife, Jane Patchel, was born in Ohio,
and died there in middle life, leaving five children,
one of whom, Zaehariali, now survives, his home
being in Monterey, Fulton County. The second
marriage of Jacob Weaver took place near Cincin-
nati, his bride being a native of that city and
named Mary A. Cummins. Her parents were Irish.
She was reared and educated in Hamilton County,
and is now living in Canton, this State, with some
of her children. She is more than seventy
years of age, yet active and useful. She is a mem-
ber of the Methodist Episcopal Church.

Of the second marriage of Jacob Weaver there
were horn nine children, four boys and five girls,
five of whom are living, named resiiectively:
George H. resides in Colorado; Eliza P]., now Mrs.
Young, resides on the homestead; our subject;
Joseph L. resides in Peoria County; and Jacob,
Jr., resides in Canton.

ANIEL F. KAIJM. The name of Raum
is familiar to the ears of all American citi-
zens who know the part taken tiy the
Prairie State in the Civil War, and are
.acquainted with the political history of the nation
since that time. In generations prior to that of
our subject it has been liorne by men who served
liie State and nation edlcientlv on fields of battle,
in legislative halls ami in the legal arena. In the
person of our subject it is becoming well known in
Peoria.

The grandfather of our subject was an Ensign
and Lieutenant in the War of 1812 and the Black
Hawk War. He came to Illinois in 1822 and was

9l^

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

237

a member of tlie legisialure when Vandalia was tlie
capital of tbe State. He enjoyed the distinction
of being the longest continuous ofKce holder in the
country, being County Clerk of Pope County
thirt}--five years. He svas an ardent Union man,
and undoubtedly did more than any other one man
in his localit}' to foster a feeling of loyalty about
tlie time of the breaking out of the Civil War. He
lived to see the reconstruction measures carried
out, dying in 1870.

The parents of our subject are Gen. Green B.
and Maria (Field) Raum, now of Washington, D. C.
His maternal grandfather, Daniel Field, came to the
Prairie State while it was yet a Territory. During
the late war Green B. Raum entered the service as
Major in the Fifty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and was
promoted to the rank of Brigadier-General. At
the close of the war he returned to the active prac-
tice of the law, in which he has gained an eminent
name. He was elected to the Fortieth Congress
and served with distinction. From August, 1875,
to April 30, 1883, he was Commissioner of Internal
Revenue, and in October, 1889, was appointed
Commissioner of Pensions.

The subject of this biographical sketch was born
in Pope County, 111., and grew to manhood there,
attending the public schools, and afterward attend-
ing AVhipple Academy and Illinois College, at Jack-
sonville, 111. He entered the Columbian Law
School, in Washington, D. C, and was graduated
therefrom in the class of 1878. He located in
Peoria in 1881, where he has since practiced his
profession. He married a young lady of Aurora,
111., formerly known as Miss Rae Copley.

*»E-^-

ylLLIAM R. HAMILTON. The growth of
Peoria has been witnessed by Dr. Hamilton
since 1848, at which time he arrived here,
and during the j^ears of his residence he has be-
come widely known for his enterprise in the behalf
of her interests as well as for his own individual
advancement. He is now living in retirement,
looking after his extensive pr(ipert3' interests, and

enjo3^ing the esteem of all to whom his labors are
known. He is a member of the Presbyterian
Church and his Christian life adds to the regard
bestowed npon him for his professional skill and
business tact.

The immediate progenitors of our subject were
Richard and Ann (Reynolds) Hamilton. The
former was born in Cumberland County, Pa., and
the latter in Birmingham. England, whence she
was brought when six 3'ears old. Mr. Hamilton
was a farmer, an<l was the father of eleven children,
those who now survive being Mrs. Mary C. Elliott,
of Denver, Col., William R., and Dr. John L. The
mother died September 17, 1830, and the father in
December, 1844.

The gentleman of whom we write, was born in
Venango County, Pa., February 18, 1816, and re-
ceived his education in his native State and in
Ohio. When about twenty years old he started on
foot for the Buckeye State, having $o.62^ in his
pocket. For two years he taught in Portage
County, alternating his teaching with attendance at
Windham Academy. From that section he went
to Clark Count3-, where he also taught, as he like-
wise did in Logan County, during this time begin-
ning the reading of medicine. In his medical
studies he was guided bj' his brother, James W.,
who practiced many years in Logan Count}', djing
there in 1879.

After attending lectures at Willoughby, Lake
County, the young physician began practice in
Huntsville in 1840. There he remained eight years,
successfully pursuing his chosen vocation and
building up the largest practice in the county. In
those days the life of a physician was even more
arduous than at present, as the roads were not so
good and much riding had to be done on horse-
back. Dr. Hamilton possessed a wonderful stock
of vitality which carried him through an experi-
ence which would have proved very wearing upon
many men. When he determined to move farther
west and selected Peoria as his new home, he made
the journey hither on horseback, entering this place
an entire stranger.

Opening an office Dr. Hamilton resumed his
professional labors, to which he had devoted his at-
tention for twelve years when he was elected Maj'or

238

PORIRAIT AND2BI0GRAPH1CAL ALBUM.

and gave bis attention to the affairs of the inuuiei-
pality. He was eleeted on the Hepublicau ticket
by a majority of two hundred and fifty-two, al-
though but three weeks before the Democratic ticket
with Douglas at its head had been carried ))j' three
hundred majority. Dr. Hamilton therefore had a
part in the organization of the Republican party in
this section. He had formerly been a Whig, vot-
ing for William Henry Harrison in 1840. Prior to
to his election to the >Iayoralt_v he had served as an
Alderman.

In 1860. Dr. Hamilton went to Pennsylvania and
engaged in the oil business. Immediately after
the battle of Chattanooga, in 18G3, he went South
as a volunteer surgeon under a commission from
Gov. Morton, of Indiana. He and his companions
were the first surgeons from the North to reach the
battle-ground. In 1864, he was again a volunteer
sursreon after the battle in front of Petersburg. In
1 865, he returned to Peoria and during the suc-
•ceeding year built a fine block on the corner of
Adams and Liberty Streets, which is a splendid
property. In 1867, during the agitation regard-
ing the Peoria & Rock Island Railroad, he partici-
pated in the work, was elected a Director and then
made President, a capacity in which he served '
seven years. He succeeded in raising between
§600,000 and S700.000 in subscriptions along the
route. He made all the arrangements for ironing
and equipment of the road, making atrip East to
accomplish this end. In 1875, the Doctor en-
gaged in the coal trade, continuing in the business
until 1881, when he sold out. Since that time he
has not been engaged in active business further
than that of looking after his propertj' interests.

Dr. Hamilton has been married three times. His
first matrimonial alliance was contracted in 1839,
his bride being Miss Catherine F. Wright, who
died in 1866, after nearly thirty years of happy
wedded life. The union had resulted in the birth
of four children, two of whom are now living.
They are Mrs. Catherine Hill of this city, and Mrs.
Amanda Gregg, a widow, living with her father.
In 1867, Dr. Hamilton married Miss Fannie T.
Norton, who survived until April 27, 1879. Slie
bore her husband two children — Ma}' and William,
the latter now in the drug business in this citv.

The lady who now occupies the place at the head
of Dr. Hamilton's household, became his wife in
May, 1880, prior to which time she was known as
Mrs. Sarah M. Dewej-.

A lithographic portrait of Dr. Hamilton appears
elsewhere in this work.

Ql'ILA MOFFATT has made a business of
operating mines in Peoria County, these
4* manj' years, besides giving much attention
(^J to agriculture, and his success in the

management of these two industries has placed him
among the most substantial men of Limestone
Township where he has a verj- attractive home re-
plete with all the comforts and luxuries of mod-
ern life. Its location is one of beautj-, as it is on
the bluffs just five miles from the court house,
overlooking the cit}' and commanding a lovely view
of the surrounding country.

The Moffatts were of Scotch origin and this rep-
resentative of the family was born on the Stat«
line between Wisconsin and Illinois, and does not
know whether he is a "Badger" or a '-Sucker."
The place of his birth is near Scales Mound, Jo
D.iviess County, and the date of that important
event in his life was October 8, 1837. His father,
Benjamin F., was a son of Joseph and Mary
(Piper) Moffatt, who at one time lived in Boston
after their marri.age and subsequently removed to
Ohio, and were among it-s pioneers and there the
mother died in 1819, leaving eleven children. In
1822, the father with eight children came to this
State from Cincinnati. The names of the children
accompanying him were: Alva, Aquila. Marv.
Sarah. Olive, Benjamin F.. Eliza and Elisha, an<l
many of these grew to be old and honored citi-
zens of Peoria.

Benjamin F. Moffatt. the father of our subject,
received his education in the village of Peoria,and
in due time was married to Miss Nanc}' J. Risdon,
a native ot Connecticut. He took an .active part
in the Black Hawk War, serving along the river
,as far as Wisconsin. His wife died in 1853 at the

PORTRAIT AND BIOC KAI'IIK'AL ALHUM.

239

age of tUirtj'-three. Her marriasre with Mr. Mof-

fatl was fruitful of nine cliildrcu. of wlioni llu'
following six gix'w to niatuiity — Thomas, Aquila,
Mary Ann. Klinira, Joseph and Alva, anil three
of these are still residents of Peoria and virinity.

Our suhjeet was born during the lead mining
troubles in Jo Daviess County, and the early years
of his life were passed there until he was seventeen
years old. He attended school in Wisconsin and
in 18.54 accompanied his father to Peoria, and
continued his education at tlie brick school-house.
At the age of twenty years he started out in life
for himself, and at the age of twenty-four had done
so well that he was enabled to marry and establish
a home for himself. The maiden name of the young
lady whom he then invited to share his life and
fortune with him was Mary Ball, a daughter of
.Samuel Ball. She was born in Wales of English
parentage and came to the United States with her
father and mother in 184;i. Thev first located
in I^ennsylvania, whence they came in 1852 to
this county and settled on section 25, where Bar-
tonville now stands. Thc3' ha(i .a farm there of
tliirt\- .acres, which they cultivated, and where
they made their home until the father closed his
mortal career February 3, 1879. The mother lived
with Mrs. Moffatt after that until her death which
occurred June 21, 1890.

Mr. and Mrs. Moffatt have hail eight children
born to them, and have lost two (twins) who died
attheageof five months. Their other children are:
Franklin A., born April 27,1862, who married Miss
Amelia Treasure and has two children — Walter
G. and Earl; Edward, born in 1861; Sarah; Ettie,
wife of Harry Wolland, a member of an old pio-
neer family ; they have two boys — Leslie and
Aquila; Samuel and Annie. Miss Annie is a
young lady of much musical talent, which has been
carefully eultiv.ated and she is now a successful
teacher of music.

Mr. Moffatt has followed mining and farming
for many years very prosperously. He has had a
farm of sixtj'-eight acres all of w-hich has coal un-
der it and he has disposed of the coal at a good
round price. He formed a co-operative coal com-
pany and opened a bank on his place which is now
worked by another company, and he has otherwise

extensively operated mines. He bought his home

iTi 1881, and liuilt a fine, large residence on the
bluffs.

Mr. Moffatt proved his patriotism and loyally
to his country during the trying times of the late
civil strife, by the faithful ami competent service
that lie rendered the Government as an enrolling
officer for the draft to serve the papers on the cit-
izens who were drafted. In 1865 he enlisted in
Company G, Fourteenth Illinois Infantry, and
took part in the campaign against Johnston near
Raleigh, N. C. and was on many a hard march. He
with other members of his regiment marched out to
Fort Kearney, a distance of six hundred miles, and
after seven months in the army our subject was hon-
orably discharged at Ft. Leavenworth Ivan., and
returned to private life.

Mr. Moffatt is a self-reliant, stiaight-forward
man, of good practical views of life and of excep-
tional habits, and his standing in the community is
among our best and most reliable citizens. He has
held the otKce of School Director and whether in
educational, moral or material matters, lie is never
backward in contributing his quota to advance the
interests of township and county.

LEXANDER BUCHANAN has the choic-

@YL| est location for a farm residence in the

i\ township of Trivoli, having on section 17,

what is considered one of the best farms

in all the country around and he ranks amongst the

most intelligent, progressive and skillful farmers

and stock-raisei's in the county.

Our subject is of Pennsylvania birth and ante-
cedents. His father, David Buchanan, was born
in Westmoreland County, Pa., in 1792. His grand-
father, David Buchanan, a native of Count3- An-
trim, Ireland, came to this country- in Colonial
times, when he w.as eighteen \'ears old, and after
living in Eastern Pennsylvania, became a pioneer
of Westmoreland Count}', in 1791, locating on a
tract of land in the woods. He cleared it of the
primeval forest trees that stood upon it and was
very successful in his attempts to evolve a farm

240

rOKTRAir AM) P.rOGRAPUlCAL ALBUM.

from tlie wilderness, iind at the time of liis death,
in 1817, had aociniiulaled a comfortable proijertj-.
He was a Presbyterian Elder in the church of that
denomination at Congruity.

The sire of our subject was a blacksmith b3' trade
and had a shop" in bateui Township, where he also
engaged in farming, having there one hundred acres
of land. During the AVar of 1812 he acted as
teamster, drawing wood for the use of the soldiers.
His oldest brother was lieutenant of a company
that took part in that eontiict. Mr. Buchanan lived
in his native State until 1869, when he disposed of
his property in order to take up his residence in
Illinois. After coming here he bought eiglitj- acres
of land on section 17, Trivoli Township, which he
was engaged in improving until his wife died. He
then lived with his children until his death in 1880
at the age of eighty-eight j'ears. He was a man of
firm and lofty principles, and was a strong Repub-
lican and a sturdy Presbyterian.

Tlie maiden name of the mother of our subject
w.is McBride, and she was born in Westmoreland
Countj', Pa., on the Loyal Hannah Creek. She was
a daughter of James McBride, who was a farmer
there. Her death occurred here on her husband's
homestead in 1872, at the age of eighty years. A
true Christian womin, slie was a consistent member
of the Presbyterian Church. .She w.as the motlier
of nine children, of whom we record the follow-
ing: James is a retired farmer in Westmoreland
County, Pa.; Jane, Mrs. Ralston, died here; D.
Wilson lives in Kansas: Martha, Mrs. Irwin, died
in Colorado; Alexander; Mona, Mrs. Marshall, died
in Farmiugton; Prudence, Mrs. Sloan, lives in
Westmoreland County; Margaret, Mrs. Rainej'. died
in Westmoreland County; Elizabeth, Mrs. Cun-
ningham, lives in Yates City.

Alexander Buchanan was born in the town of
Congruit\- in the count}' of Westmoreland, Pa.,
Julj' 25, 1825. He passed his early years on his
father's farm and in attendance at the district
school, which w.ns at first conducted on the sub-
scription plan in a rude log house, with slab seats,
puncheon floor and mud and stick chimney. Hard
work at farming was his portion. He remained at
home until he was thirtj' years old and then started
a general store at Harvey's Eive Points, with a capi-

tal of $100. He remained at the corners until
1864, then moved to Murrysville, where he was
quite successful in the same business in which he
had invested some >!4,000 or »5,()00. He also ran
a huckster wagon to Pittsburg twice a week and
made that venture profitable.

In the spring of 1867 Mr. Buchanan sold out his
business intending to eng-age in farming, but he
could not come to terms with his father, and in the
fall he emigrated to this county, shipping his goods
to Farmiugton, where he arrived October 3, 1867.
He bought one hundred acres of his present farm
in Trivoli Township for §7,500. This w.as counted
the best farm in the county, and after it came under
his management lie kept it in a good condition,
kept the buildings in good repair and made money
from its fertile soil. The next year he bought
twenty-five acres more, and later forty acres, and
then fifteen acres, and in 1888 ten acres on section
17. He now has one hundred and ten acres in one
body, having given eighty acres of his land to his
son. His land is all tillable and is under fine culti-
vation, is fenced and hedged into five fields. He
has a large house and a commodious barn, 30x64
feet in dimension, windmill and tank, groves and
an orchard, constituting in all one of the finest im-
proved places in the vicinity. He raises corn and
grain but his hobb}' is horses and hogs. He has
full-blooded Short-horn cattle and fine draft horses.

The first marriage of our subject, which took
place in Alleghany Count}', Pa., in 1854, was with
Miss Martha Irwin, a native of that countv, and a
daughter of Henry and Catherine Irwin. Her
father was a farmer there until his death, while her
mother died in the home of our subject, at the re-
markable advanced age of ninety years. December
23, 1884, death crossed the threshold of the home
of our subject, and removed the wife who had
traveled by his side thirty years. Four children
had been born of their marriage, namely: James, a
prominent farmer here who is represented in this
work; Margaret L., Mrs. VauPalten. a resident of
this township; John, a clerk in Elmwood. and a
child died in infancy.

The second marriage of our subject w.as to Miss
Margaret Mewhirter, and was celebrated November
20, 1888, in his native county. Mrs. Buchanan

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

241

was also born in Wi'stnior(^lan<l County, near Con-
gruitv, lior father, John Mewhirter, liaving l)cen a
prominent fanner there until his death in 1882.
His father came to this country from Ireland. INIrs.
Buchanan's mother was Jane MeChesne}- before her
marriage, and she was a native of Westmoreland
County and a daughter of William McChesne}', who
was also born in that county. His father came to
this country from County Antrim, Ireland. The
mother died in 1888, leaving four children: Mai-
garct, Mrs. Buchanan , Mary L., Sarah J., and Anise,
the latter three living in Pennsylvania.

Mr. Buchanan is a true gentleman in all respects.
He is a deep thinker, is well informed, and is an
interesting conversationalist, while his wife is a
lady of culture and has a most loveable disposition,
and both are very highly regarded by the entire
community. He does not aspire to ollice, although
he is a strong Republican and has taken an active
part in politics as a delegate to county and State
conventions. lit has been Trustee of the Presby-
terian Church at Farmlngton and is one of its most
prominent members.

l-;ILLIAM WYKOFF, of the firm of Wylcoff
& Graham, the leading merchants of Tri-
voli, is a man of prominence and influence
in this part of the county. He is one of the pioneers
in the mercantile business in New Trivoli, open-
ing iiere the first store, and putting in the first stock
of goods that was ever sold here. He is a repre-
sentative veteran of the late war, in which he did
and suffered much for his country.

Pete Wykoff, the father of our subject, was a na-
tive of New Jersey, and was a son of Ruloff Wy-
koff, who was also born in that State, and was of
German extraction. He was among the early set-
tlers of Highland County, Ohio, where he carried
on farming until the time of his death.

The father of our subject was reared in the pio-
neer home of his parents in Ohio, and early learned
the trade of a carpenter, which he followed for
twent3--one years, the latter part of the time being
a contractor and, builder. In 1812 he too became

a pioneer, coming to this Slate with a team and
wagon, bringing with him his family, and settling
in the neighborhood of Springfield, 111., where ho
had a farm which he managed, while at the same
time he engaged in his business as contractor. In
1854 he removed to I'coria, where he ran a dairy
farm. In 18.58 he located on a farm in Logan
Township. He subsequently bought a farm of
eighty .acres in Trivoli Township, and there estab-
lished his home, and there his death occurred in
1860, at the age of sixty-seven years. He was a
stanch Democrat, and a follower of Douglas.

The mother of our subject, whose maiden name
was Eliza Fox, was liorn in Highland Coun1,y, Ohio,
and was of English descent. After his father's
death, she sold the farm on which they then resided
and bought one of eighty acres in Trivoli Town-
ship, upon which she lived until her death in 1880,
at the age of sixty-seven years. She was a consis-
tent Christian woman of the Uaptist faith. She was
the second wife of the father of our subject. By his
first marriage he had one child, Peter, who lives in
Decatur. B3' his second marriage eight children were
born, namely: Mary A., now Mrs. Graham, of
Farmington; Sarah A., Mrs. E. Wykoff, of Deca-
tur; William; James, a resident of Decatur; Jacob.
who lives on the old home farm in Trivoli Town-
ship; Jennie, now Mrs. Eslinger, of EIniwood;
Helen, now Mrs. Bergett. of Elmvvood; Oscar, of
Trivoli Township.

William WykofT was born near Berlin, Highland
County, Ohio, November 14, 1840. He was eight
years old when his parents brought him to this
State, and for a few yeurs lived on a farm near the
city of Springfield, and had excellent district school
advantages. In the fall of 1854 he came to Peo-
ria, and engaged in work on a dairy farm on the
west bluff, the present site of North Peorin. In
1858, he came here and worked on the farm, and
remained at home with his mother until 1862.

In the month of August, that year, Mr. Wj'koff
threw aside his work to take part in the great con-
flict that was then going on between the North and
the .South, and enlisted in Company D, Eight3--sixth
Illinois Infantry, which w.as mustered in at Peoria,
and sent to Louisville, Ky. Our subject and his
conn-adcs marclied to Crab Orchard, and took an

242

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

active part in the battle at that place, and subse-
queutly fous>lit at Nashville, and were engaged in
various skirmishes. He M'intered there and was on
provost duty, and the regiment was tlien ordered
South to Brentwood, a fortified place. The men
were afterward sent bade to Nashville, and again
faced the enemy in the l)atlle at JMurfreesboro. In
the spring of 1864 Mr. WylvOiT and his fellow sol-
diers started with Sherman on his Atlanta cam-
paign, but he was soon taken sick with the measles,
and was sent to the hospital. As soon as able he
was placed on detached duty, and acted as guard in
different places in Nashville, and was finally sent
to Chicago in the fall of 1864, on detached service.
So ably did he discharge the duties devolving upon
iiim in every case and under all circumstances, that
he was promoted to be Sergeant soon after he was
mustered in, and in Chicago had a position in the
(Juartcjrmaster's department, as Commissary Ser-
jeant, which office he held until the close of the
war. He was mustered out witli his regiment in
Cliieaao, June 15, 1865, and was honorably dis-
ciiaryed as Sergeant of Company D. He was in all
respects a true soldier, upon whom liis superiors
could place the utmost reliance. He experienced
many privations and hardsiiips, which resulted in
the loss of his health, and thus gave up tiiat which
is almost dearer than life itself, for the sake of his
country.

After his discharge from the army, our subject
retuiued home and gave his attention to farming,
renting a farm in Elmwood Township, one year,
and then buying a farm on section 2, Trivoli Town-
sliip, comprising forty acres. This joined his
motlier's place, and he farmed them together, hav-
ino- the control of one hundred and sixtj' acres of
land, which he managed with excellent success un-
til 1874. He then rented his place, which he kept
in his possession until the spring of "90, when he sold
it at a good price. He still has a residence and two
acres of laud at Old Trivoli, though he makes his
home iu New Trivoli. In 1874 he bought in with
J. Johnson at Trivoli, and they ran a general
store under the firm name of Johnson & Wykoff,
doing a good business.

When the railroad was talked of, our subject was
enthusiastically iu favor of it, gave his iulluencc

to aid in bringing it here, and canvassed the town-
ship to get up a subscription, and gave all he could
afford. The result was tiiat the railroad came here
in 1880, and he sold out his interest in the store in
Old Trivoli to his partner, and moved to the new
town to establish himself in the business here.
He went into partnership with Mr. Robinson, put
in a new stock of goods in the store he opened here,
which he has since enlarged, and is prosperously
conducting an extensive mercantile business, deal-
ing in flour and carrying n large line of everything
that is to be found in a general store. For the I'rst
four years he was interested in the implement busi-
ness here, and also in the grain trade. His partner,
Mr. Robinson, retired from business after the first
year, and William Christy took his place, and
the business was managed under the firm name of
Wykoff & Christy until the spring of 1890, when
Mr. Christ}- sold out to Mr. Graham.

Our subject was married in Kickaiioo to Miss
Thalia Carter, their marriage being solemnized Sep-
tember 15, 1874. Mrs. Wykoff is a woman of in-
telligence and education, and was a school teacher
prior to her marriage. She is a native of Michigan
and came here when a girl. The pleasant home
circle of our subject and his wife is completed by
their three children — Levar, Bernard, and Clifton.

Mr. Wykoff was appointed Postmaster of New
Trivoli, and served until 1885. lie has been School
Director for years, and is a Grand Army man, be-
longing to Daniel McCook Post, in Elmwood. He
is a true-blue Republican, is very prominent in the
councils of his party, and has been a delegate to
nearly every convention, and for eight years was
a member of the Central Committee.

EVI B. PITNEY, residing on Adams
f(§] Street, Peoria, is in the Revenue service
1^-^ . here as storekeeper, and is a most efficient
and trusty official. He vr&s born in Licking County,
Oliio, November 29, 1825. His parents, Samuel
and Sarah (Jones) Pitney, were also natives of
that Slate. The father came to Illinois, and was
an honored resident of Hancock Countv until his

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

■213

death, which occurred in 1880 at the advanced age
of eighty-one years. Tlic mother of our subject
had died in 1852.

Mr. Pitney, of whom we write, passed liis early
life on a farm, assisting in its management and
attending the public schools when they were in
session. He continued to carry on farming until
he went to California in 1859. He remained there
until 1867, and then retraced his steps to Illinois,
coming by wa^' of the Isthmus. After his return
lie entered the emplo.y of the Wabash Railroad
Company for ten j'ears, and then went in the em-
l)loy of the Chicago, Rock Island & Pacific Rail-
road, and was with them until 1889. In that 3ear
he was chosen as storekeeper in the United States
Revenue service, and his commission for the office
was dated in October of that year. lie h.id been a
resident of Peoria for some time, locating here in
1884.

Mr. Pitney and Miss Sarah Lewton, a native of
Can oil Countj', Ohio, were united in marriage in
the month of September, 1869. Of their three
children — Blanch, Willie Arthur and Cljde Hersey
— one is now deceased, Willie Arthur, who died in
infancy.

Our subject has been a member of the Independ-
ent Oriler of Odd Fellows for nearl3- half a cen-
tury'. His religious views find expression in the
faith of the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which
he is a member. Since 1856 be has been a sturdy
advocate of the policy of the Republican party.
He is a man who is true to his convictions, is loyal
in his friendships, and none know him but to accord
him the respect due to his years and station.

^P^EORGP: G. GEKiER. This gentleman is
ill ^=^ President of the Peoria Pump<fe Implement
^<gJ4 Company, located on the corner of Chestnut
and Water Streets. The manufactory covers
100x181 feet, now employs twenty-five men, and
is fitted with power and first-class machinery. The
caiiacity is now being enlarged, and within the year
will be doubled, so that one hundred pumps per
day, in addition to other work, will be turned out.

The twelve railroads which enter Peoria will be
connected with the establishment by tracks on
either side. Wood and chain pumps of all kinds,
tubing, water pipes, veranda columns, farm wagon
shoveling boards, and wheel-barrows are made,
special attention being given to the first article
named. The company sells to the jobbing trade
from New England to the Coast, kee|)ing men on
the road whenever they can keep up with their
orders. The pump works were established about
twenty-flve years ago, but have been under the
present management two years, and were incor-
porated January 1, 1889, with a capital stock of
§30,000. The officers are: G. G. Geiger, Presi-
dent; II. R. Geiger, Jr., Secretary and Treasurer.

The subject of this notice was born in Marion,
Ohio, October 3, 1850, being a son of Daniel and
Margaret (Halvorstott) Geiger. He grew to man-
hood in his native place, acquiring an excellent
education, after which he worked in a machine-
shop at Cincinnati. In ftla}-, 1875, he came to
Peoria to handle musical goods, and during the
past five years has been handling real estate both
in Peoria and the West, proving very successful in
his operations. He has been a member of different
stock companies, and although still comparatively
a young man, has displaj'ed striking qualities as an
oi'ganizer and controller of business affairs.

In September, 1877, Mr. (ieiger received his
commission as Captain of a military company, at
the head of which he remained three 3'ears, being
considered by Gov. CuUom one of his best officers.
His company was G, Seventh Illinois National
Guards, which was of service during the labor
troubles and strikes. Capt. Geiger took great in-
terest in the organization and discipline of his
command, feeling a just pride in their soldierly
appearance and conduct. He remained with them
a j'car after the expiration of the regular term of
enlistment, when the pressure of private business
caused him to resign.

October 2, 1878, the rites of wedlock were cele-
brated between G. G. Geiger and Ida J. Bootz.
The bride was born in Peoria, in which city her
parents, Peter and Lydia liootz, were early settlers.
She received an excellent education, a good school-
ing in housewifely arts, and has shown wisdom in

244

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

the care of hur tiuusuUold affairs aud the training
of the chihiren who have come to lier. The union
has been blest by the birlh of five sons and daugh-
ters, four of whom survive. The3' are named re-
spectively: Gilbert l^., Hattie P., Garland \. and
Grace I. Mr. Geiger is a prominent member of
the Masonic fraternity, liaving taken. thirt3--two
degrees, wliicii are all that the rites bestow, except
as an lionorary degree to high officials of State or
National repute. Mr. and Mrs. Geiger. it is per-
haps needless to sa}', are highly respeeted and
exert an influence which is felt far bej^ond their
own home.

' OSEPH SHOLL. One of the most important
industries of Limestone Township, is the de-
velopment of coal mines, where veins of the
imprisoned sunshine await the pick of the
hardj- men who bring to the upper world this great
agent for heating purposes. The firm of A. Sholl
<fe Sons is the best known in this region, the original
member having been tlie pioneer in the coal busi-
ness in the township. He established himself when
the demand for coal was very small, enlarging the
business as the demand increased, until now he and
his sons are the sole proprietors of all the coal lauds
along the bluffs from Bartonville to Mollis, except
a few isolated pieces. Tlie sons — Henrj- S., James
M.. Samuel V. and Joseph, now carry on the busi-
ness, the father having retired from active partici-
pation. They use the best of hoisting machiner}-
and employ in the neighborhood of one hundred
men, eighteen of whom are on regular salar3-. Their
shipping facilities are of the best, .as their coal field
is accessible to the Peoria & Pekin Union Railroad,
and also to the Toledo, Peoria & Warsaw Railroad.
Our subject is Superintendent of the incline
shaft, which has a capacity of fifteen flat cars, or
about seventy-five hundred bushels per day. that
being the largest output from anj' mine iu the vi-
cinity of Peoria. This will be increased as the de-
mands require, as their fields contain other excel-
lent veins beside that which they are now working.
They are at present taking out from vein Ko. 4,

which is four feet six inches thick, without a clay
se.am. Under this lies vein No. G. and still lower
the3' have one hundred and fifty feet, thirty-eight
inches thick, which furnishes coal of a superior
quality and is underlaid bj' a stratum of excellent
pottery el.ay. It is the intention of the firm to open
two more mines in the vicinitj' in the near future.

A ms^rkcl for the most of the produce of A. Sholl
& Sons is found in the citj' of Peoria, they having
a yard on South AVashington Street, with a clerk
and book-keeper conGtnntly in attendance. James
Sholl, who has charge of the financial part of the
business, is considered one of the best and shrewd-
est salesmen iu the Slate. He resides at No. 1001
North Jefferson Street.

Adam Sholl, the father of our subject, is a native
of Prussia, whence he emigrated to the United
States in 1834. He landed at New Orleans, reach-
ing Peoria in 1836, near which pKice he carrieil on
a farm for several years. He also made a business
of shipping coal, and a qiiarter of a century ago es-
tablished the business which has grown to sucli
proportions as to emplo\' the best faculties of sev-
eral of his descendants, together with quite a large
force of employes. He was married in Peoria to
Miss Charlotte, daughter of James Monroe, whose
history is found elsewhere in this Albl m. For a
number of years Mr. and Mrs. Sholl resided on Jef-
ferson Street, then selling out they purchased land
in Limestone Township, and took up their abode
there. They now have about sixteen hundred
acres of farm and mineral lands there, together
with a fine propert}' in Pekin, where thej' now re-
side. They have had seven sons and two daughters,
five of the famil3- still living.

The gentleman whose name introduces this sketch
was reared in Peoria and on the farm iu Limestone
Township, receiving his earl}' education in the Peo-
ria schools and finishing with two and a half j'ears
of study in Heckling College. Abingdon. From his
youth he h.as made coal dealing his business and is
expert in handling that important article of com-
merce.

After his marriage he built a house near the
mines on the bluff, afterward moved to the count}'
seat, but finall}' rctuined to the country and is now
occuinina' the old homestead on which he has built

^(^-u..^ (T^-tjL

r«

'<«•%
■^^ ^

■^

A^ V

»iV

^ft

^^^n

•- ' J

^T'

;

'.^

''r^-'^y

-4*

-J»

•^

■ 1

-4

-a

■fe#

/^cr>T

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

247

:i fine residence. He is reganied willi much respect
by liis many acquaintances on account of his iiisfh
degree of business ability, his excellent education,
and above all, for the sterling traits of his char-
acter. He is liberal in politics, interested in the
advancement of education and everything wliich
will tend to the personal welfare and material pros-
perity of the citizens of tlie great commonweaitli.
He and liis family support the l?aptist Chnrch.

The beautiful home of our subject is presided
over by an educated and most estimable lady who
was formerly knovvn as Miss Mary E. Jenkins. She
is a daughter of George Jenkins, a pioneer of Hollis
Township, who for twent}' years was a Supervisor
and for a long time Chairman of the Board. Miss
Jenkins became the wife of our subject December
5, 1861. Their family consists of five sons and one
daughter. The oldest son, R.aymond P., a young
man of excellent education, is now weighmaster
at the mines. The second son, Joseph D., is en-
gineer of the mines near which he lives with his
wife and one child. The third son, Robert Lee, has
charge of the farm, in operating which he is as-
sisted by his younger brothers, James N. and Arch-
ibald E.

'•— Hf-

— .-5N^'«

R. JUSTIN H. WILKINSON. Among the
retired men of Peoria, who, as old age
comes creeping on, can cease from undue
anxiety regarding the daily bread, and en-
joy all of the comforts, and many of the luxuries
of life in an elegant home, is Dr. Wilkinson, whose
portrait with that of his estimable wife is presented
on the opposite page. He now has large property
interests, having made fortun.ate investments, and
having, in addition to his practice, exercised his
financial abilitj^ to some extent in other pursuits
which added to his means. For thirty years he was
engaged in serving humanity through his knowl-
edge of medical science, winning a reputation for
practical skill in the ajiplication of the theories witli
which his mind is stored, and ever endeavoring to
keep abreast of ihe liini-s in his knowledge regard-

ing all that pertains to the profession which he had
cliosen.

Dr. Wilkinson is the oldest of ten children born
to Joseph and Eliza (Harlan) Wilkinson, who were
natives of A'irginia and North Carolina respect-
ively. He comes of sturdy stock, the paternal
line being English and Welsh, and the maternal
ancestors a few generations back having accom
panied Penn to America. Of the parental family
four daughters and two sons are now living. The
birthplace of Dr. Wilkinson was Warren County,
Ohio, and his natal day July 20, 1823. At the age
of five years he became a resident of Parke County,
Ind., where he lived until twenty-five years old.
He obtained an excellent education, completing a
literary course at Asbury University, Greencastle,
Ind., in the Class of '45. He studied medicine
with Drs. Allen & Weaver, in Rockville, Ind., at-
tended lectures at Louisville, (Ky.,) Medical Col-
lege, and after becoming a full fledged physician,
in 1848 came to Peoria County, III., and estab-
lished himself for practice.

Among the pursuits to which Dr. Wilkinson de-
voted his attention more especiall^^ after retiring
from practice in 1879, and in which he invested his
capital, were those of farming, merchandising, min-
ing, etc. He owns a thousand acres of land, on
much of which, in this county, coal mines have
been worked for fifteen years. In 1889 Dr. Wilk-
inson retired from active life, feeling that his pro-
fessional labors of over a quarter of a century- had
fairly entitled him to rest, to say nothing of the
other occupations of long and busy years.

In choosing a life companion. Dr. Wilkinson
made a fortunate selection, and for forty years his
home has been presided over b}' a lady of great
worth. She bore the maiden name of Isadore E.
Edwards, and is a daughter of Thomas and Eleanor
(Scott) Edwards. The father of the former was a
cousin of Gov. Ninian Edwards, so prominently
connected with the history of the Prairie State. Her
father was born in a fort at Cold Stream, Hampshire
County, Va., where lie lived until lie came to Illi-
nois. He carried on a woolen factory. His death
occurred in this State in 1854. The Edwards faui-
il}^ is of English stock, while the maternal gran<l-
father of Mrs. Wilkinson, Samuel Scott b}- name,

248

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPIIK AL ALBUM.

came from ScoUmiuI. The uuuriage of Doctor and
Mrs. Wilkinson took place Janiiury 'iO, 1850, and
of this union were horn four cliililren. all deceased.
.Mthoiigli released from hiisiness cares. Dr. Wilk-
inson is hy no means an idle man. He finds suffi-
fAcni to occupy him in the literature of the d;iy, in
the interests of humanity, and particularly in Sun-
day school work, in which he has long l)een an ac-
tive participant. For seven years he was President
of the County Sunday-school Association, and he
has repeatedly served as a delegate to State Sunday-
school Conventions. He and his wife are devout
members of the Methfidist Episcopal Church. His
political vicvvs .accord with those expressed by the
platform of the Republican part}', with which he
always cast£ his vote, although he is not a politi-
cian in the ordinary acceptation of that term.

y^-ILLIAlM McCORMICK, a successful, en-
terprising fanner and public-spirited citi-
zen of Trivoli Township, is the fortunate
owner of three hundred and twenty-three acres of
good farming land here, and several city lots in
Peoria. His home farm consists of one hundred
and sixty acres on section 20, all tillable, well-
fenced, supplied with a good house, three barns, a
windmill, and other necessary buildings, and beau-
tified with orchard and groves. The other farm,
also well improved and furnished with good build-
ings, comprises one hundred and sixty-three acres
on sections 32 and 33.

Mr. McCormick is descended from the sturdy
Scotch, who found a refuge in County Antrim, Ire-
land,during religious persecutions in their own land.
His grandfather and liis father who bore the same
given name, Alexander, were natives of the Emer-
ald Isle, and farmers in the vicinity of Carlyles.
His father was also a weaver by trade, doing cus-
tom work. He sold his farm, and in 186,i emi-
grated to America, locating in Central Illinois,
where he spent the remainder of his life, breathing
his last in 1880. Following the example and teach-
ings of his forefathers, he was a stanch member of
the Presbyterian Church. His wife, formerly Jane

McGugen. a native of the same count}- as himself,
was of English and Scotch descent. She survived
until 1884. when she too crossed the river of death.

The parental family consisted of eight children,
our subject being the (irst-born. James, the sec-
ond son and child, died in Pliiladelphia; Mrs. Rose
Taggartdied in Knox County, this State. September
27,1884; Mrs. Martha McKonney resides in Phil-
adelphia; Mrs. Mary Clark is living in Nebraska;
Catherine lives in Philadelphia; ]\Irs. Rachel Ray
is a resident of Xeliraska; Mrs. Maggie Ilousholdcr
lives in Iowa.

The gentleman of whom we write, was born at
Carlyles, County Antrim, Irel.and, three miles from
the Irish Channel, .lune 4, 1831. He was brought
up on a farm, enjoying the privileges of good dis-
trict schools, and was early taught industrious hab-
its. He remained with his parents until nineteen
years of age, when, believing that he could better
his condition by so doing, he emigrated to Amer-
ica. Leaving Liverpool March 12, 1851, on the
sailer ''Tuscarora." he landed in Philadel|>hia twen-
ty-eight days later, and in a short time was engaged
in the iron mines, getting out ore. In this employ-
ment he spent the winter, working in the harvest
field, or at other farm labor in the summer, until
1854, when he went to California, via New York
and the Isthmus.

Landing at San Francisco, Mr. ^McCormick went
up to Red Bluff, one of the foot hills on the Sacra-
mento River, where he spent the winter in pros-
pecting, but made nothing. He remained in the
Golden Slate, however, three }-ears, finally securing
some money. In 1857 he returned to Philadelphia,
remained there during the winter, and the follow-
ing spring came to Fulton County, 111. Li.icating
in Farmington, he opened a clothing establislimeiit,
carrying it on three 3ears, and building a good
business edifice. He then sold, and buying sev-
enty acres of land, moved into a log house, and
began farming.

In 1868 Mr. McCormick bought one hundred and
twenty acres of his present home farm, located here
and began improving the property which was run
down by continual use as corn land. By clovering
and (lasturing, he has brought it to a high state of
productiveness. In buying the property lie was

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

249

obliged to pay twelve and one-half per cent, inter-
est, but notwithstanding that high rate, svicccss at-
tended him, and ere long he added one hundred
and sixty acres adjoining, ;ind still later purchased
his other farm. Mr. McCormick pays considerable
attention to slock, making money with his droves
of hogs, draft horses, and his fine herd of cattle
which arc (iahvay crossed with Short- horns, bfith
full blooded.

The estimable woman who has charge of the
household economy on Mr. MeCormick's estate,
was known in former years as Miss Mary A. Rodg-
ers. She was born in County Donegal, Ireland,
reared and educated in iier native land, and was
united in marriage with our suliject in Peoria, Au-
gust 10, 1858. Theii- happy union has been blessed
by the birth of ten children — William, John, Mary,
Jane, George, Henry, Cliarlcs, Martha. Rachel, and
Ma3'. The first two are farming in this township;
the others still reside with their parents. Mary
and May have attended the Dixon and A'alparaiso
Noimal Schools, and Martha gives her attention to
school teaching; George is also a teacher, at pres-
ent advancing his learning in the school at Val-
paraiso, Ind. ; he formerly attended the Burlington
Business College.

Mr. McCormick adheres to the principles of the
Democratic party. He belongs to the Methodist
Episcopal CHiurch, and is one of those who helped
to erect the church edifice at Concord. Personally,
he possesses a very genial nature, which joined with
his fine cliaracter, makes him well liked by those
with whom he has to do, while his wife and the
various members of their family are also well re-
spected.

^g^Ji^^e

^^BRAHAM BRAYSHAW. Peoria is the
(@7lJ I home of many flourishing enterprises, and
j( IS> trade that falls below the tens of thousands
(Qyj yearly is scarcely noted as of more than

minor importance. One of the establishment* in
which a line business is done is that of the Mexican
Amole Soap Com|)anj-, of which the gentleman
above named is tlie President. The business had
pioveil a b.ad venture to its former managers but

feeling assured of the merits of the article manu-
factured, in which he had already some interest,
Mr. Braysliaw bought the patent and plant and has
in a short time brought up the trade to $40,000 per
annum. It is the nature of the President of the
company to push forward any enterprise in which
he engag'es,and from a line of manufacturers he in-
herits the spirit that can carry to a successful ter-
mination a large concern and the tact that can con-
trol the force needed in its work.

The Brayshaws have been cloth manufacturers for
several generations and in that business he of whom
we write was occupied in England, his native land.
He is a son of Benjamin and Anna (Berry) Bray-
sliaw and one of a family of twelve children. The
others remain in their native land and continue
the business of their forefathers. Abraham Bray-
shaw was born on Christmas Day, 1838, and left
the mother country when thirty years old. Taking
passage on a vessel bound to America, he landed
in New York in due time and there remained
two years superintending a woolen mill for James
Standring. He then came to the Prairie State and
locating in Peoria, engaged in the car|)et trade, con-
tinuing in that business until 1884.

About six years ago a company was organized
for the manufacture and sale of a prime toilet soap
and Mr. Braj'shaw became interested in it. The
corporation was known as Albaugh's Mexican
Soap Company, the President being Mr. M. H.
Haverhill. When the new organization was per-
fected the name was changed, and that of the root
whence the cleansing properties are derived was
incorporated with other words formerly used to
designate the company. The Amole soap is a
vegetable product, the tree from which it is made
having high healing as well as cleansing qualities,
and being therefore especially adapted to toilet use.

Shortly after reaching America, May 13, 1868,
Mr. Brayshaw led to the hymeneal altar Miss Car-
oline Wilb}', who, like the man of her choice, was
liorn in the mother countr}-. She possesses a fine
nature, much intelligence and pleasing manners,
and is the chief member of the household to the
husband and children to whose comfort she ever
ministers. Mr. and Mrs. Brayshaw are the parents
of three living childien — Benjamin W., who is in

250

POin-RAIT AXD BlOURArHICAL ALBUM.

the factoiT with liis father; Waller, a student in
college; and Clarence S., who is still at home. Mr.
Brnyshaw is a charter member in the lodge of
United Workmen of this city. He gives his vote
and influence to the Democrat party, in whose
principles he believes.

A^■1U .SMITH. This gentleni.au is Manager
III of the Central Illinois Agency of the New i
f!^' York Life Insurance Conipanv. his head-
quarters being at Peoria and his territor3- embrac-
ing twenty counties. He began the duties of a
life insurance agent in March. 1887. and was so
remarkably successful that after about seven
months' work he w.is chosen by General State
Agent. L. C. Vanuxen, as Manager of the Central
Illinois Agency. He has been successfully pur-
suing the work, discharging the duties of his posi-
tion with satisfaction to his superiors and credit
to himself.

Mr. Smith is a son of .Tohn antl Anna (Havens)
Smith, early pioneers in McLean County, to which
the}' came from Ohio. In the county mentioned
our subject opened his eyes to the light December
31, 1836, spending his youth upon his father's
farm, except the d.iys in which he was pursuing his
advanced studies. These were prosecuted at the
Illinois Wesleyan Universit}', at Bloomington, an
institution in which he h.as been particularly inter
ested since his school days, and for which he is an
executive member of the Board of Trustees, an of-
fice to which he was elected in June, 1886.

At the completion of his course of study Mr.
Smith returned to his home and took charge of his
father's farm until the death of the latter, in 1882.
He was appointed administrator of the estate, and
the homestead being put up for sale, he bought
and still retains it. It comprises five hundred and
forty .acres near Hudson. Upon it our subject re-
mained until he began his life insurance work,
and be still gives considerable attention to the es-
tate, where he is interested in breeding fine cattle
and horses. Having quick intelligence and a keen
a|)preciation of good stock, he is likelj' to make a

success of his venture in that line, to which he
brings also the business tact which will lead to a
good disposal of members of his herds.

At the home of the bride, in Peoria. .July 18,
1889, the rites of wedlock were celebrated between
Mr. Smith and Miss Mary J. Eussell. This esti-
mable and accomplished lady was born in this city,
being a daughter of the late William and Susan
(Bl.ack) Russell. Mr. Smith has been a member
of the Methodist Episcopal Church since boyhood
and is regarded as one of those to whom a Chris-
tian profession means a conscientious discharge of
his o'.jligations to God and .man. He votes the
Republican ticket, and although he has never
cared for political preferment, has been elected to
various township offices, and was given the posi-
tion of School Treasurer five years.

ORN'ELK'S N. MIHIGAN. One of the
"^^ lights of the legal fraternity in Peoria is the
gentleman above named, who enjoys a lucra-
tive practice and a high reputation as an honorable
and capable attorney and counselor-at-law. He has
been in practice here since 1878, making a speci-
alty of criminal practice, for which his keen wit,
acute perception and accurate judgment of charac-
ter seem particularh' to qualify him.

Somcrville. Somerset County, N. J., w.as the
birthplace of our subject and his natal day March
15, 1856. His parents. Jeremiah and Catherine
(Tracy) I\Iihigan, were born in Ireland, Queens-
town being the birthplace of the latter. When a
young man Jeremiah Mihig.an emigrated to Amer-
ica, residing in New Jerse)' for a number of 3'ears.
There he married Miss Trac}', who bore him four
sons and two daughters. In June, 1856, the fam-
ily came to Peoria, 111., which was then but a
small town without a prominent building within
its borders. Mr. Mihigan made this his home until
his. death, which occurred October 28, 1879. at the
age of fifty-five years. He was an honest and law-
.abiding citizen, an excellent mechanic and a kind
husband and parent. His widow is still living in
this city, having with her her daughters, Maggie

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

2ol

M. and Katie. The lirotliers of our .subject are:
Daniel C, a railroad engineer; J. T., (^overnnient
Ganger; T. ■)., late engineer at the eity water
works, and now master nieclianie of the Toledo,
Peoria A.- Western Railroad, all making their homes
in Peoria.

The suliject of this notice grew to manhood
here, receiving his education in the city schools,
and beginning his career in life as a clerk in a
grocery store, busying himself in other employ-
ments suited to his years and knowledge prior to
the coniiuenceinenl of his law studies. He can re
call the time when the major part of the city was
but a cornfield, business being mostly confined to
"Water Street, and has seen every improvement
from the first reall3' good building erected, to the
last modern residence and elegant public building.

The law studies of Mr. Mihigan were pursued in
the oftice of Messrs. Whitney & Foster, of Pekin,
in which city he remained until admitted to the
hnv b}' the Su|ireine Court, ,at Ottawa, in 1876. He
located for pr.actiee in the city where his studies
had been [jursucil, remaining there two years. The
largi r city, which had long been his home, seemed
better suited for one of energetic disposition, and
hither he came, in 1878, to begin a career whicili
has stamped him as the possessor of natural abil-
ity and fine legal training,

Mr. Mihigan has been actively engaged in |)oliti-
cal work tvith the Democratic partj-, but has not
sought ofHce for himself. He is recognized as a
strong man in the political arena, and has, there-
fore, been sent as delegate to various conventions
and called upon to assist in securing for his friends
political honors and emoluments. Aside from this
work his whole attention is given to his profession.
His wife was born and rearetl in this city.

^^^ ^ (S^r=^^7t<*^ ^ ^^ ^=^'^

■jflOHN IIERSCHRERGER. Among those
' who have seen the fruition of their hopes
of comfortable fortune, and have retired
from active business life to enjoy the reas-
onable recreations suited to .ac'vancing ye;irs, is
John Herschberger, who for many years has re-

sided in Peoria. For nearly a quarter of a century'
he was identified with its business life as proprietor
and manager of establishments in which otheis
found employment, and in wiiich he had pre-
viously won the confidence of those for whom he
worked in handicraft.

The |)arents of our subject were Peter and Cath-
erine (Stalter) Herschberger, natives of Bavaria,
Germany, whence tiiey emigrated to America about
1830, locating in Hamilton Count3-, Ohio. There
their third child, our subject, was born, Ai)ril 2,
1835. He has three sisters and one brother, the
latter, Joseph, and one of the sisters, Mrs. (ieorge
F. Weber, being residents of Peoria. The other
members of the family circle are Mis. Madeline
Slaybach, of Tazewell County, and Mrs. Philopena
Sexton, of JNIissouri. The [jarents removed to Pe-
oria County, 111., in 1841, and here the father
died of cholera in 18^9. The widowed mother sur.
vived until August, 1887, breathing her Last at the
age of eighty-three _years.

John Herschberger learned the trade of a hai-
ness-maker, beginning an ap|)renticeship with
Philip Bender in 1849. After familiarizing him-
self with his liaudicraft, he followed the same
until 18tjl, when h'- entered the field of merchan-
dising as a dealer in shelf hardware, stoves and tin-
ware. In this business he was occupied three
j'ears, then bought an interest in a planing mill,
and subsequently the entire plant, carrying on the
business until 1884. Since that time he has been
engaged only in looking after his investments,
bearing the part which a good citizen should in
the worthy movements going on in the city, and
enjoying domestic and social life as he could not
do when occupied with business cares. He is an
honored member of the Baptist Church, and in
politics is, as he himself expresses it, -a Prohibi-
tionist clear to the backbone."

The lad\' who occupies the place of honor in the
household of Mr. Herschberger became iiis wife
February 8, 18G5. She was known in her girlhood
as Miss Sarah D. Bastow,an(l is a native of Kngland,
whence the family emigrated in 185L Mr. and Mrs.
Herschberger have lost four children and have five
living, the latter being named respectively, Will-
iam B., J. Herbert, Harrietta, Clarence B. and

2o2

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Il.'utikl H. Mr. Ilersehbf rger \\a<\ nn excellent
reputalion in business circles, as he still has in
church and social life, and iiis good wife also en-
joys the confidence and esteem of their acquaint-
ances.

SAAC .lACKSOX MARSH. The death of the
late Isaac J. Marsh removed from Peoria a
'l\ gentleman who lind lllled a jKisition of respon-
sibilil}' and conducted himself as ticcame a man.
in dealings with his follow. men. in domestic and so-
cial relations, and in the jjroseculion of the duties
that lay before him as a member of business circles.
He was born in Champaign Count}-, Ohio. June 12,
1832. remaining at his birthplace until a few years
after he had entered his teens, when lie sought the
Pacific Slope. With a brother-in-law he crossed
tlie plains during the gold excitement and reaching
California spent two j-ears in survej-iug and sight-
seeing, but strange to say. not engaging in mining.
A part of this time was spent in Oregon.

Mr. Marsh returned to the States by wa\- of the
Isthmus, and having completed his journey from
New York to his native State, entered Antioch
College to complete his education. The famous
institution over which Horace Mann presided was
an excellent place in which to imbibe advanced
ideas regarding the use and beautj- of knowledge,
and gain the wisdom without which schooling is of
little benefit to ona's self or mankind. After finish-
ing his course of study Mr. Marsh came to Peoria
and for a time was engaged in various occupations.

The cry of a nation whose life was attempted by
traitorous hands aroused the spirit of Mr. Marsh,
and ho enlisted from Milford Center, Ohio, in the
one hundred days' service, afterward enrolling
himself again for a term of three years. On the
second occasion he went out as a Lieutenant, was
shortly afterward appointed Brigade Commissary
and in thai capacity served during the remainder
of the war. When mustered out of the service be
returned to Jlilford Center and while agent for two
r.ailroads, had iin elevator, antl handled grain on his
own account.

Prom that pliice Mr. Marsh came to Peoria as an

employe of the Peoria and Rock Island Railroad,
and for some time was General Manager of the
Coal Transportation of the Indiana, Blooming-
ton A Western Railroad. He next applied him-
self to business of his own until appointed by-
President Cleveland, United States Storekeeper. In
that position he also served under J. Starr until
taken ill in September, 1889, the sickness termina-
ting fatally on November 17. He was a member
of the Grand Arm>' of the Republic and of the In-
dependent Order of Odd Fellows.

The estimable and highly respected lady who be-
came the wife of our subject more than tiiirty
years ago, was born in Woodstock, Ohio. April 17,
1834, and bore the maiden name of Rebecca C.
Speers. Her parents, David and Sarah (Franklin)
Speers. ren\oved to Metamora, Woodford County,
III., when she was a j'oung lady of eighteen j'ears
and there her marriage was celebrated May 31,
18.56. She has one daughter, Orpha Angle, born
April 6, 18(51; one child, Charlie Spencer, died
aged nine months. She belongs to the Universalist
Cburcji in the tenets of which her deceased hus-
band found comfort.

^KORGE T. PAGE. The law firm of Worth -

ington. Page & Brady, is recognized as
^>i^i4 holding a prominent position in the legal
profession of Peoria County, and has well-equipped
offices in the citj' of Peoria, at the corner of Jeffer-
son Avenue and Hamilton Street. Mr. Pago is
comparatively young in the profession, but has
made rapid strides, possessing natural abilities of a
high order, and the perseverance and industry
which, together with a close application to the du-
ties of his calling, arc a' guarantee of success. He
is a native of this State, and was born in Woodford
County, September 22, 1859, to T. C. S. and Cor-
delia K. Page, living at home until he was seven-
teen years of .age. He attended school at Metamora,
and partially completed his studies in the Illinois
University at Champaign, after which he was for
a time engaged in teaching in his native county.
Mr. Page is a uopliew of Judge Shope, of the I Hi-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

253

nois Supreme Court, and a brother of Judge S. S.
Page, of the Peoria County Circuit Court.

Mr. Page has always been an industrious student,
and emerged from the university' more than ordi-
narily well-informed. He commenced the reading
of law with his brother, then senior member of the
firm of Pnge <fe Khvood, at Metamora, and was ad-
mitted to the bar January 14, 1882, by the Supremo
Court of Ottawa. He commenced the practice of
his i^rofession the following year in Denver, Colo.,
seeking that region for the benefit of his health.
When sufficiently recovered, he returned to Peoria
and practiced law with his brother S. S. Page, and
alone, until March 1890, when the firm under the
title as it now exists, was formed. They give spe-
cial attention to corporation law, which they have
investigated to such an extent, that they are en-
abled to settle the knotty points which are con-
stantly arising and which are not thoroughly un-
derstood b3' the majority of practitioners.

The subject of this sketch was married Septem-
ber 7, 1887, at the bride's home in Decatur, 111., to
Miss Jessie Stevens. Of this union there has been
born one child, a son. Gerald II.

ICHARD SCHOLES, deceased, entered into
rest October 22, 1870, at his home in Chil-
licolhe. He was born in Bolton, England,
\\@ in 1804, of good P^nglisli stock, his mother
belonging to the Heaps family, well known among
the extensive manufacturers of the mother countr}-.
He was well educated, received careful home in-
struction, anil after graduation from the college of
his native cit^', when about of age, he set out for
America. He began his labors in this country by
teaching in New Jersey, succeeding .as an instruc-
tor and obtaining a financial start by this tempo-
rary expedient. He subsequently made several
trips to England for the purpose of securing help
for a New England cloth manufacturing company,
with which he was afterward connected as a pattern
m.aker.

After spending some jears with the firm of

Gregg & Co., Mr. Sclioles came to Illinois in 1837,
and secured a large tract of land in Sprague Town-
ship, ftlarshall County. After having improved
most of the farm he removed to Chillicothe, Peoria
County, engaging in the sale of merchandise and
grain. His experiences were many and varied.con-
siilerable propertj' being lost by him at times, but
the stubborn persistence characteristic of the Eng-
lisnman would not allow him to become discour-
aged under any reverses. His personal traits se-
cured for him the confidence and love of all who
made his acquaintance, and among those to whom
he was not porsonallj' known he was reputed a man
of activity, an honest citizen and a ripe scholar.

The efforts of Mr, Scholes toward intellectual
improvement did not cease with his school days,
but continued throughout his life, and he became
the possessor of the finest library in the county.
Although not an office-seeker, he took an active
l)art in local politics, during slavery times was an
Abolitionist and until his death a sound Republi-
can. He possessed much artistic ability, water colors
being his forte and beautiful scenes growing under
his brush. Natural history was made a specialty
by him until he became an expert.

The first marriage of Mr. Scholes occurred in
England when he was quite young, the bride
being Miss Elizabeth Crossdale, a well-educated
and refined lady of a goixl English family. A
few j-ears after he came to America she jf)iiR'd
lum, living with him in New England States until
in her prime when she was called hence. She died
at Fall River, Mass., leaving two children, of whom
Johi: died when 3'oung and Frank was accidenlallv
drowned in Marshall County, 111., in 1.S41, wlien
eleven years old. Mr. Scholes contr.acted a second
marriage in Massachusetts with Miss Jennie Dalrini-
ple; of this union there were three children: Agnes
Oakfor, of Fredonia, Kan. ; Alice H.nsmer, of
Chicago; Samuel D., of S|)ring6el(l, an attorne3'.

Mr. Scholes contracted a third matrimonial alli-
ance in Medina Township. Peoria County, 111., liis
bride being Mrs. Sarah H. Stillnian, nee Gillus, a
native of Salem, Washington County, N. Y., born
November 2,'), 1811. Her parents, Robert and
Esther (Baker) Gillus, natives of the same county
as herself, removed to Oswego County in later

254

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

life, and' died tliere during; the same year, when
about four-score years old. They were well and
favorably known where they lived, and bolli were
members of tlie Conirrejiational Cliureli. Mr. Gil-
lus was a farmer. The father of Mrs. Gillus was
Capt. Thomas Baker, a Revolutionary soldier, wiio
was seriously wounded and drew a pension for
many years before his death. He w.as of Scotch
parentage. Mis wife, Mary Carswell. was the
daughter of a prominent man in Washington
County, her father having been High Sheriff of
Salem for many years.

Mrs. Sard) IL Scholes was reared and educated
in her native State, ciiiefly in Ontario County.
She first married Demming, son of Samuel and
Eunice (Demming) Stillman. who were natives of
Conni'clicut and had been educated for teachers.
After their marriage they removed to Oneida
County, N. Y., where the husband was engaged in
farming, and wdiere the son, Demming was born.
After the marriage of the latter he and bis wife re-
mained in the Empire State until I83G, when they
removed to Peoria, 111. There Mr. Stillman was
engaged in a hardware store two years, after which
he purchased a fine, unimproved farm in Medina
Township, which he made the scene of his labors
during the remnant of his days. He died in July,
1842, when in the prime of life, leaving behind
him the reputation of a good citizen. He was the
father of three children, the oldest of whom was
born in New York. One of them is now deceased,
namely, AValter D., who left a widow and two
sons in Council Bluffs, Iowa, where he had prac-
ticed medicine sixteen years. The living children
are: Caroline, wife of Dr. William H. Wilmott, of
Lawn Ridge, Marshall County, and James, a sin-
gle man, who lives in Chicago.

By her marriage with our subject Mrs. Scholes
has became the mother of three children : Jennie,
wife of William Baldwin, a retired farmer and
travelling- in an, lives in Peoria; Thomas J., mar-
ried Lydia Ransom, of St. Joseph, Mo., resides in
Chicago, and is engaged with the Barnes School
Book Publishing House; and Charles resides in
Auburn, Sangamon Count3', where he was for-
merly engaged in the hardware trade. Mrs. .Scholes
is a member in good standing of the Congrega-

tional Church and several of her children are iden-
tified with the same society. Siie is looked ujjon
with great respect by tlie members of the commu-
nity among which she condncts her useful labors.

^EORGE y. YATES is the son of a pioneer
(— - farmer of this county, and since attaining
li^J manhood has become connected with its
interests as a farmer and stock-raiser, owning and
O'jcupying a productive well tilled farm on sec-
tion 34, Akron Township. IITs parents. John and
Eleanor (Miller) Yates, were natives of West \ir-
ginia, the former born in Ohio County. They
spent the early part of their married life in that
county, and from there emigrated to this county
in 1849, and settled among the pioneers of Rad-
nor Township. There they lived some twenty
3'ears and then removed to Akron Township, where
the father's earthly career was brought to a close
in the mouth of March, 1879. The mother still
survives at a venerable age. To that worth}' couple
six children were born, all of whom lived to years
of maturit}'.

The subject of this biographical review was the
youngest child in the parental familj-. and he was
born on the 13th of March, 1844, in Ohio County,
W. Va., when that State still formed a part of the
Old Dominion. He was but five years of age when
his parents came to Peoria County, therefore the
most of his life has been passed within its bounds,
and he was reared under its institutions and edu-
cated in its schools. He w,as bred to the honorable
calling of a farmer, and lias made that vocation
his life work. His agricultural interests are cen-
tered in Akron Township, and he is managing
them judiciously and with good success.

In the upbuilding of a home our subject is
greatly aided by his wife, formerly Hattie M. Dun-
lap, daughter of Napoleon Dunlap, of Radnor
Township, of whom see sketch on another page of
this work. She was born in Radnor Township,
October 1.5, 1852. and was carefully trained and
educated liy her |)arcnts. Her marriage with our
subject was lUdy solemnized December 18, 1873,

^^-^-^^ ^yl^ZC^

rt 771}^'} y j:£^

roUTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

257

and to them have come four chihlren, as follows:
IMyrlie JNL. who died when ciiilit nionlhs old; Charles
C. Alma H. and Ernest E.

Mr. Yates -s a fair-minded, lionorablo man, steady
and industrious in his habits, and in him and his
good wife the Presbyterian Church finds two of its
most worth j^ members, who deli,i;ht to aid in its
every good worii.

~^^^

AiMES DEAL. Perhaps no name is belter
known in Peoria than that wliitli initiates
this sketch, and which is held by a general
contractor and builder, whose portrait ap-
[jcars on tiie opposite page, and who is also a
member of the firm of James Deal & Co., builders
of grain elevators here. Many of the finest build-
ings in the city were designed and constructed by
Mr. Deal, although his work has been by no means
ciinSned to this city, but includes public buildings
in various localities. He is a native of Vermont,
born in Burlington, Wednesday, October 11, 1848,
and is the eldest son of Adam and Elizabetii
(Ilogan) Deal, natives of Canada and the North of
Ireland respectively. The father was a contractor,
and lie of whom we write inherits mechanical and
architectural skill which he has devcloi)ed by care-
ful training. His parents removed to Vermont, in
which State they were living when called to join
the silent majority.

The subject of tliis notice drifted west to Au-
rora. III., in boyliood, an<t there passed his school
days. On reaching his sixteenth year he began to
jc.iru the carpenter's trade, at which he served
;iu a|)prenticeship of three years. After comple-
liuii bis lime he traveled and worked at his trade as
an employe a short lime, and then, associating
himself with Stephen Parry, began contracting.
In 18C.) he located in Peoria, where iiis reputation
as a skillful artisan and an able designer has led to
his iiaving the contracts for the best buildings here
during the last decade.

Among the edifices which have been put up by
Mr. Deal are the National Hotel, the Watson
Block, the Paddock Block, the County Insane

Asylum, and all of the costly' buildings wiiich have
been erected on the State Fair Grounds at Peoria.
Many wholesale business houses and elegant resi-
dences are monuments to his skill, the most impo-
sing of all being the Woolner Block, now being
pushed to completion, which is expected to be the
finest in the cit}'. Mr. Deal was also interested in
building the State University at Carbondale, the
County Poorliouse, and the Insane Asylum at
Carthage.

In September, 1869, Mr. Deal w.as united in mar-
riage with JMiss Fanny Benson, of Peoria, who was"
killed in the Chatsworth disaster in 1887, leaving
three children — William, Fran*k and Belle. He
contracted a second matrimonial alliance April
5, 1888, on which occasion his bride was Miss
Nellie Harsch, likewise of Peoria. This lady is a
favorite in society, and in her own home exhibits
the character and skill of the true home-keeper.

It will readily be seen that Mr. Deal possesses a
benevolent spirit and social nature, when the fact
is stated that he belongs to the Ancient Order of
United Workmen, Modern Woodmen, Royal Le-
gion and various Masonic lodges. He is enrolled
in Temple Lodge, No. 46, F. <fe A. M., and also in
the Chapter, Commander}' and Consistory. For
six years he served as a member of the School
Board. He owns and occupies a pleasant resi-
dence at No. 400 North Adams Street, where his
many friends are cordially welcomed by himself
and his charming wife.

OHN L CLARK. Too great honor cannot
be given to those who develop the mind and
train the heart of the young, and it affords
us pleasure to assist in preserving the record
of this gentleman, whose highest claim to future
remembrance rests upon his long years of pedagog-
ical labor. Many of his former pupils exchanged
his instructions for a place at the head of schools
where they, in turn, transmitted the truths of sci-
ence and morality to the boys and girls in whom
the hope of the nation lies, thus giving rise to the
familiar name of '-Teacher of Teachers" by which

258

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

our subject is known to man}-. His present home
is on a fine farm of one liundred and sixty acres on
sections 26 and 36, Trivoli Townsliip, ?ltlioiigh he
lias retired from hard labor of body and mind,
finding great delight in the care of his garden and
otlierwise enjoying tlie ease and comfort due after
3'ears well spent.

Mr. Clark was born in Argyle, Washington
County, N. Y., April 6, 1815, was three years old
when his parents removed to Livingston County,
where they lived until 1821, then journe}'ed by
team to Buffalo, thence by boat to Monroe County,
Mich., remaining there until the father was called
hence two years later. Tlie widow with her family
then went to Lenawee County, bought one hundred
and ten acres of land in the dense forest, where our
subject labored at clearing and other home duties
so long as his strength would permit. He had been
ill before his father died, and the ague kept a hold
upon him until he became too reduced to endure
hard work, and developed into serious complaints.
The timber on the farm was black walnut of the
finest kind and the Raisin River afforded a con-
venient means of transportation for the logs that
floated down to the sawmills.

Being unable to aid upon the farm, Mr. Clark
went to Caledonia, N. Y.. to a brother and sister,
and attended the village school for a while, then,
having heard of an old [ihysician in West Avon
from whom it was thought he might derive some
benefit, he went there, making his home with the
doctor while taking treatment and at the same time
pursuing his studies in the academy. His treat-
ment had almost effected a cure, although ho never
wholly recovered from the effects of his early ill-
health. When twenty years old he began teaching,
his first school being a winter one at Leroy. At its
close he returned to Michigan, and secured a school
at Dundee, but in the fall took the position of
book-keeper and commissary for his brothers, who
liad a contract of sixteen miles of the Michigan
Southern Railroad, and wished his services.

After working for them two years, Mr. Clark re-
turned to the Empire State, drawn thither by the
charms of Miss Rachel Rogers, whom he won for
his wife, their wedding taking place in Livingston
County ,June 3, 1840, the ceremony being performed

by the Rev. I\Ir. Fisher, a Covenanter minister.
The bride was born in Washington County, her fa-
ther, David Rogers, being a descendant of the John
Rogers who was persecuted and burned at the stake
for his principles in the days when iMaiy, Queen of
Scots, upheld Catholicism by force. Tlie mother of
the bride was Mary Mills, who bore her husband a
large family, most of the male portion of whom
moved West and became farmers in Wisconsin.

Mr. and Mrs. Clark came to Michigan, where,
not long after, the wife was left while our subject
visited Illinois. He crossed tin; lake to Cleveland,
Ohio, went by stage to Columbus, and started on
the canal to Sparta, Randolph County, III. The
boat traveled so SI0WI3' that he and a nephew struck
out on foot for Peoria, four hundred and forty
rajles distant. During the winter he taught in the
village of Trivoli. then wentafter his wife, and also
brought with him on his return, a brother, Ben-
jamin, making the trip by wagon. He settled in
Smithville, teaching there three years and a half
when politics became a source of excitement, and a
Democrat was put in charge of the school, our sub-
ject being a strong Whig.

Our subject bought forty acres of raw land near
the village, built a dwelling and undertook other
improvements. The patrons of the school desired
him to resume charge after his successor had held
the place one term, and he accordingly returned to
his former position, and continued his labors until
the death of his companion, August 13, 1845.
Leaving the place then, Mr. Clark taught in Mercer
Count3', then in Greenfield, Greene County ,and after
some time went to Michigan, where August 1,1848,
he conti'acted a second matrimonial alliance,
wedding ^Nliss Laura M. McManus. This lady was
born in Chautauqua County, N. Y., and receiving
an invitation came to the home of a sister in Mich-
igan, filling a position as a teacher in both Lenawee
and Monroe Counties; she was also a successful
teacher in the neighborhood of her uncle in Ohio.
After his second marriage Mr. Clark came b.ack to
this county, continuing his pedagogical labors in
various districts for divers periods, giving the sum-
mers, for a few years, to work ujion a farm he had
bought, and at last tired of the cont'uual change
from farm labor to school turned his entire atten-

PORI'RAIT AND lilOURAl'IllCAL ALBUM.

259

lion to farming. In 1853, he secured by trade
eigiitj acres of liis present farm, afterward buying
another tract of one hundred and sixty, luit sold
half of it, leaviuy in his possession a quarter sec-
lion. His vvife had cliargc of this until he aban-
doned the iMofession in which lie liad labored so
long and so well. lie operated it until tiie deatli of
ids wife, December 22, 1882, when he left it and
for some time afterward made Ins home witli bis
children in ISIissouri, Iowa and in .Livingston
County. HI.

At Peoria, March 4, 1889, Mr. Clark was again
married, winning as his wife Mrs. Mary J. (Mc-
Clelland) Davis. This lady was born in the North
of IrelamL reared there and highly educated. When
a j'oung woman she came to America with a sister,
becoming matron of an institution for tlie education
of negro children in New York Cit,\, in which her
sister also taught. For twenty- live years she held
her place at the liead of this institution, then mar-
ried her first husband, who liad at one time been
principal of the institute and whose acquaintance
slie had made there. He had resigned and moved
lo Michigan, and losing the companion of his early
3'ears, some years after her death married Miss Mc-
Clelland. They went to England where he died
two years later, when the widow returned to New
York and -was offered the position she had lield
prior to her marriage. Illness prevented her as-
suming its duties ami she came West to visit a
sister, coming to the home of her nephew, W. A.
Huston, in this county, where she met the subject
of our sketch when he was looking after his farm
property here.

By his first marriage Mr. Clark became the fa-
tlier of three children. Isabella is now living in
Adair County, Iowa; she married George Walford,
who was drowned. Martha E., formerly a teacher
in this State and Missouri, now lives in the Latter,
being the wife of I. J. Biller a farmer. Rachel R.
died in infancy in 1815. The second marriage of
our subject was productive to him of two children.
Sarah C. attended Monmouth College, married
Simeon Wright and died in Texas leaving an in-
fant son who still survives. Homer J. lives in Liv-
ingston County, being editor and joint proprietor
of the Pontiac Sentinel; be also attended Mon-

mouth College, was a teacher and was i)erfornung
the duties of Princii)al of Gibson City High School
when the editor of the Gibson City Charier desired
him to manage llie sheet a week while he took a
vacation; he did so and sometime after the return
of the owner formed a partnersliip with him in
buying out the Pontiac Sentinel and running it un-
der the st^yle of Lowry & Clark.

Our subject joined the Presbyterian Cliurch when
fifteen j'ears old and has been Ruling Elder since
1843. He has also been Superintendent of the
Sunday-school, and is now teaching the Bible Class
at Pennsylvania Ridge. In politics he has been a
true blue Republican since the disintegration of the
old Whig party. His farm is well improved, having
two dwellings, adequate outbuildings of various
kinds, fences, trees, etc., to mark it as a home of
[ilenty. In manners and conversational powers Mr.
Clark is pleasing, intelligent — in fact quite cuL
turcd. and cordial, making it a great pleasure to
converse witli him.

The father of our subject was born in Hfeshire,
Scotland, May 10, 1764. He came to New York with
his parents in 1771, receiving a good education, in
common with his brother and sisters, and studied
medicine. He graduated from an alloijathic school
in the Empire State, engaged in the practice of
medicine in Argyle, N. Y. Going into speculation
he lost all his property, more than once, but after
each reverse would resume his profession with suc-
cessful results. He i)rospected for gold also, siiend-
ing much mone\' in that way. After living for some
years in Livingston C'ounty, he located in Michi-
gan, first spending a j'ear in Monroe and then
jjracticing in Raisinville until his death in 1823.
He and his lirother Robert were both Presbj'terian
in religion, and belonged to tiie Free and Accepted
Masons.

The mother of our subject was Isabella Camp-
bell, a native of Argyle, N. Y. ; she died in Michi-
gan, near Deerficld. She was the mother of fifteen
children, whose record is as follows: Eleanor died
in New York July 21, 1820 aged twenty-nine j'ears;
Margaret was thrown from a horse, having her
neck broken, in Blissfield, Mich. ; Robert died in
Randolph County. 111., in 1812; James R. died in
Minnesota in 1882, aged eighty-six years; Cather

260

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ine in Randolph County-, 111., in 1837: Jane in
DeerBeld. Mich., in 1836, aged thirt}--four years;
William C Januarj- 28, 1849. aged forty-four;
Elizabeth in infancy ; Benjamin in Michigan in 1869,
aged sixty-two years; Daniel in Michigan: Ebene-
zer, in Washington Count}-, N. Y., aged two years;
Eliza, in Caledonia, N. Y., in 1840; Sally Maria in
Missouri in 1879; Martha G. in Caledonia, N. Y.,
.iged twentj-nino years. Robert was in the War
of 1812. and Daniel in the Black Hawk War.
Robert was a physician, flually becoming quite
rich and prominent, and died near Sparta, Randolph
County, 111. Robert, brother of our subject's fa-
ther was elected to Congress about the year 1817,
where he as early in liie history' of our country as
this, bj' his fearless utterances on the subject of
slaverj- as the destined curse of our land, proves
himself to have been a strong abolitionist. After
his term of service in Congress expired he was ap-
pointed Government Land Agent, and b}' his wise
trading soon became quite rich and prominent. He
died near Monroe, Mich., leaving a large family in
opulent circumstances.

LBERTUS Y. BARTHOLEMEW. Peoria
l^ Count}" has but few more able, talented
men of business connected with its im-
mense farming and stock-growing inter-
ests, than this gentleman. Elmwood Township,
the scene of his agricultural enterprises and va-
rious pursuits has in him a valuable citizen whose
liberal, progressive public spirit has placed him
among the foremost in pushing forward every en-
terprise for its advancement, and no one has done
more in placing it in the front rank of its sister
townships than he. He owns a large farm, which
is considered one of the finest in this localitj', but
it does not suffice him for his extensive business,
as a raiser of cattle, hogs, horses and mules, and
he leases five hundred acres besides.

Our subject is a fine representative of a native-
born citizen of this county and township, Febru-
ary 26, 1838, being the d^-te of his birth. He
came of fine old New England parentage. His

father, Luzerne Bartholemew. was a native of
Connecticut, and emigrated from thtre to Illinois in
1837, coming all the waj- in a covered wagon. He
settled on a farm on section 6, building a log house
to shelter his family. He bought three eighties, and
later erected substantial buildings on his place,
among them a comfortable residence, treadmill,
windmill and woolen mill. He was a man of in-
finite lesources and equally expert in various call-
ings. Besides being a skillful farmer he was a
fine machinist, a successful boot and shoe mer-
chant, and also butchered cattle, shipping the pre-
pared meat in barrels to New Orleans on flat
boats. In 1848 he crossed the plains to Califor-
nia with a companj- of emigrants. He was made
the Captain of this band, driven thither by the
gold fever. While in California he captured a
grizzl}' bear, weighing about two thousand pounds.
After coming home he exhibited the bear through-
out the United States, in East and Southern Canada,
and in the fall of 1856 made a trip to Europe, ex-
hibiting the bear in all the leading cities.

During all these travels our subject was his
father's companiou, being thus enabled to gain a
fair knowledge of the world. Upon their return
home they disposed of the bear in Brandon, Vt.,
for the sum of §10,000. Subsequently, while on
a visit to Connecticut in 1866 the father died.
He was twice married. His first wife was the
mother of our subject, and, like his father, was a
native of Connecticut. Her maiden name was
Betsey Yale, and she was a descendant of the fa-
mous Yale familj- of th.at State. She was a highly
educated woman, possessing great literar}' talent
and writing both prose and poetry with facility.
She had three children, of whom our subject is the
only survivor. John B. was a soldier in the
Eighth Missouri Infantry, and after a service of
nearl}- three years bravely yielded up his life in
the service of his country at the siege of Vicks-
burg. Sarah Helen died at the age of eighteen
years.

Our subject gained the preliminaries of his edu-
cation in the district school, and subsequently pur-
sued an excellent course of study in the Galesburg
Academy, never attending school but six months
after he w.as sixteen years old. He began life for

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

261

himself by working for his uncle in a hardware
store at $10 per month, his salarj' being raised to
§50 per month in 1859. He subsequent!}' clerked
in a dry-goods store for Cone & Wilcox for one
season. He then returned to his uncle and was
engaged in putting up lightinng rods, etc., for
one seasou. After tliat he vvas variously employed
in farming, shelling corn and threshing, and also
in raising stock.

Mr. Bartholemew began his farming operations
with an eight^'-acre tract of half improved land,
and has done so well iu its cultivation that he has
been enabled to buy more and now he has three
hundred and sixty-eight acres of land under good
tillage and highly im|)roved in ever}' respect, so
that it is justly considered the moet desirable stock
in the township. As before mentioned he is
largely engaged in raising stock and has acquired
wealth in his dealings. At one time he sold six
car loads of cattle which averaged over |80 per
head.

B}' his marriage to Miss Mar}- Ennis, which was
solemnized Ma}' 15, 1862, Mr. Bartholemew secured
a wife who is devoted to his interests and has
greatly aided him in the procurement of his prop-
erty. She is a daughter of John and Sarah
(Loomis) Ennis. n.atives respectively of New York
and Connecticut.

Mr. and Mrs. Bartholeme.w's congenial married
life has been blest to them by the birth of six
children: John B., a manufacturer, of Des
Moines, Iowa, who married Louella Moore, of Os-
kaloosa, and they have two children; Orie Y., a
graduate of Knox College, and poet of the class of
1888, now book-keeper for the Peoria Planter
Works, making his home iu Des Moines; Lura H.,
also a graduate of Knox College, and class histo-
rian, is now assistant Principal of the Elinwood
High School; Charles A., a young business man of
Elm wood, is a manufacturer of peanut and coffee
I'oasters and also has a brass foundry; Carrie
Maud and Bessie Alice.

Mr. Bartholemew is a noble-spirited, high-
minded, generous-hearted man of exemplary habits
whose course both in public and private life is be-
yond reproach, and he and his wife and their fam-
ily stand high in tlie social circles of the county.

their hospitality, their kindness and cordiality ren-
dering their charming home in the town of Elm-
wood very attractive to all who enter within its
gates. For the past four years our subject has
represented Elmwood Township on the County
Board of Supervisors, and has been otherwise con-
nected with the local government as member of
the City Council, and on the School Board and as
Road Commissioner. As an incumbent of the im-
portant office of Supervisor, he has looked care-
fully after the interests of his township, and his
rare capacity for business has been well illustrated
by the masterly manner in which he conducted the
case of the bondholders vs. the township, in the
suit brought by the owners of tlie bonds issued by
the township to build the Hannibal, Peoria &
Dixon Railroad. The amount of money involved
in the litigation was $170,000, and after a great
deal of controversy in the courts our subject was
instrumental in bringing the suit to a close by
effecting a settlement of the claim for 8115,000,
and on the issue of new bonds he placed them on
the market at a premium. j\[r. Bartholemew is a
strong Republican and takes a deep interest in
politics. He and his wife and their three eldest
children are among the prominent members of the
Congregational Church, of which he is a Trustee,
and Mrs. Bartholemew has been active in the Sun-
day-school work as a teacher.

^, iVILLIAM E ASTON. Among the residents
\ * / ^^ Chillicothe, who have laid down the bur-
'Vf'>^ dens of life after extended and successful
labors, is numbered William Easton, who breathed
his last March 7, 1890. For some years prior to
his death, he had been quietly enjoying the fruits
of his former industry, rejoicing in the good will
of a large circle of acquaintances, and filling up the
measure of his days with good works, lie wiis
eighty-two years and ten months old when called
hence, having been born in Newark, N. J., May 7,
1807.

The father of our subject was William Easton,
Sr., a man of English birth and descent, who came

262

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

to America when a young man. He made his liorae
in New Jersey, but continued the seafaring life in
which he had previously expended his energies. He
was killed by falling from some part of the vessel
on which he sailed, when in the prime of life, and
when our suhject was but two j-ears of age. He
had married an American lady — Mrs. Elizabeth
Slaght nee Drake — who was reared in New Jersey.
Her first husband Cornelius Slaght, died in the
prime of life, leaving four sons and one daughter,
all of whom are now deceased. Some of their de-
scendants were early settlers in Cleveland. Ohio,
and there became rich and piominent. The mother
of our subject lived to be ninety years old. d3ing
in Newark, N. J., which liad been her home for
many long jears.

William P^aston, Jr., remained with his mother
until he was ten years old, then became an inmate
of the household of his half-brother, Abraham
Slaght, in Cleveland, Ohio. When old enough to
do so, he went to work in tlie carpenter and ship
j-ards, learning the use of tools. In 1836 he came
to Illinois, having but §1 in his pocket, his i)re-
vious accumulations having been lost to him bj'
going security for friends in Ohio. Peoria County
was but S|)aisel3^ settled, much of the land being
j-et unbroken, but here Mr. Easton set himself to
woriv to make a home. He secured a tract of un-
broken land in Hallock Township, and surrounded
bj- a wild waste of territory, he established himself
and began the labors which resulted in securing a
large propertj\ For some j'ears he worked at his
trade, hoarding his resources, and gradually im-
proving and adding to his landed estate. A part
of the fine property' which he accumulated is now
owned by his widow.

Mr. Easton was a strong Republican, ever ready
to serve his party, but never seeking office for him-
self. He, however, was made Justice of the Peace,
and retained in that office for fifteen j-ears. He
was a Universalist in religion, and the fortunate
possessor of a nature combining so many pleasing
attributes that all who became acquainted witli him
regarded him with affection.

Tlie first marriage of Mr. Easton was celebrated
in Cleveland. Ohio, a short time before his removal
to the Prairie State. The lady whom he won was

Jliss Sophia Lake, wiio belonged to an excellent
family in Ohio, and had grown to maturity under
the charge of estimable parents. She died in 1838,
two years after accompanying her husband to this
count}', being carried off in the prime of life by
consumption. She left no offspring. The second
wife of our subject was Miss Sarah Hicks, a native
of New York, who came to Illinois with her par-
ents wlien quite young. She was educated in Peo-
ria County, fitted for usefulness, and bore well her
part in life until called hence in 1872. She died
at her home in Hallock Township, in middle life,
leaving three sous — Stephen, William D.. and
Joel I.

Stephen Easton gave liis life for his country's
cause, being fatajl}' wounded at the battle of Chick-
asaw Mountain. He lies in a soldier's grave at
Marietta, Ga. His brother William also devoted
some years to the service of his country, and was
finall}- discharged on account of disaliility, return-
ing to his home, where he soon afterward died from
disease contracted while in the army. Both these
were uuniarried. Joel is now living in Creston,
Iowa, with his wife and family.

Our subject contracted a third matrimonial alli-
ance in 1874, at LaPrairie, JIarshall County, his
bride being Miss Isabel M. Jones. This lady is a
daughter of Edwin and Emily (Root) .Tone^, na-
tives respectively of Uniontown, Pa., and Delaware
Count3% N. Y. Mr. Jones was of Welsh parentage,
while his wife w.as of English descent. They were
married in the Bucke^'e State, and began their mar-
ried life in Findlay, where Mr. Jones worked as a
tanner. In 1831 he removed with his family to
Peoria Count}-, 111., laboring among the pioneers
until 1844, when he settled in Marshall County on
a farm. He spent the remnant of his days there,
d3ing in 1884, when sevent}- -nine j'ears old. While
in Peoria Count3', he carried ou a small store, one
of the first in Chillicothe, and as one of the first
County Commissioners he helped to bu}- and lav
out the cit}' of Peoria. He was a prominent local
politician in the ranks of the Republican party. In
JIarshall Count}- he held the office of Justice of
the Peace some years. He was a prominent mem-
ber of the Christian Church. Mrs. Jones is still
living, making her home witli her daughter, Mrs.

Ofi

PORTRAIT AND BIOCtRAPHICAL ALBUM.

263

Easton. Sbe is now eigUty-three years of age, is
sightless, but ber mental faculties are uiKliniined by
tbe tligbt of years.

Mrs. Isaljel (Jones) Easton, was born in FiniUaj-,
Oliio, June 30, 1831, and received tbe most care-
ful borue training from ber good parents. Iler
education was acquired at Eureka, 111., and in otber
places, ber mind being thorougbly cultured, and
ber memory stored with knowledge. For some
time sbe was engaged in teacbing in Peoria and in
Marshall County, gaining a high standing among
tbe members of her profession. Her many aceom-
plisbments and reflued nature make ber a leader in
society, and sbe has long been known as one of the
most influential and useful ladies in this commu-
nity.

,0BEK1" A. STEWART, a native of this
county, and a representative of an early
4\\\\ pioneer family, is one of the foremost citi-
^ zens of Logan Township, who, besides ac-
tively aiding bis fellow farmers in sustaining and
extending tbe great agricultural interest of this lo-
cality, is pre-eminent in its public and political life.

Our subject was born on tbe old homestead on
section 5, Timber Township, April 20, 1856. He is
a son of the late Walter and Nancy E. (Turbett)
Stewart, who were natives respectively of Wash-
ington County, N. Y., and F.airfield County, Ohio,
the former born February 21, 1813, and the latter
July 30, 1824. He was a son of James and Sarah
(^ McCoy) Stewart, who were born and reared in
New York, where tbe father carried on farming.
The grandfather of our subject was a son of Walter
Stewart who came of an old Scotch family, and was
born near Edinboro, Scotland, lie emigrated to
this country in Colonial days and settled among the
pioneers of Salem, N. Y., wiiere be spent the re-
mainder of his life. He was a member of tbe first
church of United Presbyterians organized in that
town. He had three sons — George, Robert and
James, all of whom married and reared families,
and each named a son Walter, in his honor.

James Stewart, removed with bis fara'ly from
his native State in 1837, to this county, the fami-

lies of Christian Scbnjder and Joseph Hunt ac-
companying liiiu. He made his home in Timlier
Townsbi|) from that time until bis death September
2, 1854, ,at tbe age of sixty-four years, when a use-
ful pioneer was removed from t!ie community. His
wife survived him until 1858, when she too died.
Tbe following is the record of the ten children that
they reared: George, born March 5, 1810; Agnes,
June 24, 1811; Walter, February 21, 1813; Wil-
liam, September 6, 1815; James, October 17, 1817;
Eunice, February 17, 1820 ; Isabelle, December 4,
1821 ; Esther, June 22, 1825; Sarah, December 4,
1827; Jane, November 1, 1831 ; all of whom reared
families excepting William, and all settled in Peoria
County. Their parents were members of tbe Uni-
ted Presbyterian Church and were stanch adherents
of that faith.

Tbe mother of our subject was a daughter of
John and Nanc}' (Beaty) Turbett, who were natives
of Juniata County, I'a. He was a son of Col.
Thomas and Jane (Wilson) Turbett, natives re-
spectivel3' of Ireland and Scotland. They were
tbe parents of the following children : .lobn, James,
Thomas. George, Stewart, William, Nancy, Blary,
Esther and Priscilla. John was the onl^- one who
ever came to Illinois. When he was a young man,
be left bis native State and went to Ohio, where he
was married. He was one of the pioneers of tbe
State, going there as early as 1812. Sometime after
marriage, be and his family settled in F.ayetle
County, Ohio, about 1828, and in the fall of 1840,
came from there to Logan Townsbii). He was a
tanner by occupation. His death occurred here in
the month of January, 1847, at the age of sixty-
four. He and his wife reared a family of ten chil-
dren.

Walter Stewart, the father of our subject, came
to Illinois with his parents in the month of July,
1837. He entered one hundred and sixty acres of
land on section 5, Timber Township, developed it
into a farm, and made it bis home until his death
of paralysis December 20, 1878. He accumulated
valuable property, and at the time of his demise,
owned five hundred and eight acres of land which
was divided into three fine farms. When he came
here, he bad only his team and ^100 in money. He
was a conspicuous figure in the imlilic life of town-

•2t)4

PORTRAIT AND IJIOGRAPniCAL ALBUX

ship and county, and served six years Jis Collector,
and for severnl terms, represented the township ou
the Countj' Board of Supervisors. In politics be
w.as a stal^-ait Democrat, while in religion, he was
a Presbyterian, lie and his wife belonging to the
United Presbyterian Church and liberally- contrib-
uting to its support. Tbcy reared five sons, named
as follows: James H.. John T., Robert A., George
B. and William W.

Robert Stewart, grew to man's estate on the pa-
rental homestead and gleaned his education in the
local schools. When he arrived at the years of dis-
cretion, he adopted the calling of a farmer and
continued to live with his mother, and v.ith his
youngest brother actively carried on the home
farm. In 1881, he removed to his present home on
section 23, of Log.an Township, and here he has a
farm of one hundred and twenty-eight acres that is
in an admirable condition, he has a set of commodi-
ous, well- fitted up buildings, and the soil is well
tilled.

A young man of sound understanding and pro-
gressive spirit, our subject is not permitted by his
fellow-citizens to devote his whole time to his pri-
vate interests but is often called upon to take a
prominent part in the management of public affairs.
In the spring of 1887-1888, he was elected Super-
visor, and so well did he represent the township on
the County Board, he was re elected to that posi-
tion in 1890. In politics he is an ardent Democrat
and his popularity is very well shown when it is
noted that he was the first Democrat in this town-
ship elected to the important office of Supervisor
for thirty years, and notwithstanding the fact that
the opposing part}' was stronger b}' seventy, he was
elected b}- a majoritj- of nineteen.

-S^^i

ARK M. AIKEN. This gentleman bears
the distinction of being one of the oldest
residents of Peoria novr living, having set-
tled here October 28, 1833, and here he
has s'nce made his home, comprising a residence
for the long period of fifty-seven years. He has
watched the growth of the city with unalloj-ed sat-
isf.action. and has contributed as he was able in ad-
vancing its prosperity'.

-The Aiken f-imil}' is of New England antece-
dents, and the subject of this notice was born June
21 , 1808, in the town of Deering, Hillsboro County,
N. H. He is thus approaching the eighty-third
year of his age. .and forms one of the old land-
marks of Peoria, whose name will be held in kindly
remembrance long after he has been gathered to
his fathers. His parents were Nathaniel and Su-
sannah (Morrill) Aiken, the former of whom was a
farmer b3" occupation, and died 1833; the mother
died October 29. 1829. The parental family con-
sisted of four children, two of whom are living, our
subject, and Mrs. Childs, of Evanston, 111.

Mr. Aiken remained with his parents until a
\oulh of sixteen years, then went to New York
City to live with his uncle, Elisha Morrill. Not
long afterward he entered the employ of J. & J.
Harper, the original of the great firm of Harper
Bros., and entered upon an apprenticeship in the
book publishing business. Some j-ears after this was
completed, however, he was seized with the desire
to push on further westward, and we next find him
in Peoria. Soon after locating here in 1833, he
formed a partnership with George C. Bestor, and
the}" engaged in a gener.il lanil office business.

Mr. Aiken had purchased land prior to coming
here, when Peoria was a little straggling town com-
prised of a few rude structures along the river. He
was prospered in his business enterprise, and after
dissolving partnership with Mr. Bestor, associated
himself with his cousin, Elisha Morrill, of New
Hampshire, and the}' prosecuted a successful busi-
ness for some 3-ears until his death in 1881.

Mr. Aiken has been a liberal-minded and pro-
gressive citizen, taking a prominent part in poli-
tics, and giving his support to the Republican
party. He served as Assessor, and as a member of
the Board of Health, and identified himself with
the Congregational Church, because it was anti-
slavery from the beginning. During war times he
was a stanch Abolitionist, promulgating his princi-
ples at every opportunity, and was one of the most
active supporters of Abraham Lincoln and the
I'nion. He has cause fora reasonable amount of sat-
isfaction in his declining 3'ears as he may properly
feel that his labors and influence in behalf of truth
and the right have bj' no means been in vain.

4A*^^'

g?^S«-«

' I

=^^,i5'5

^:iy^.^/-tX^V^ ^^/9^Z^Z^^^^.

'J^ ^ (^^C^^^^ur^

POKTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

267

tl? GRACE G. ANDERSOIS'. A visitor to
jl, Peoria, in noting the line ljuil(lin»s wliicli
adorn its residence streets, will And at No.
210, ^loss Avenue, an elegant home whose
)re eminence consists in the wide and beautiful
view which it commands. Tiio entire city of Peoria,
the town of Pekin, and a di vers! lied landscape ex-
tending far into Tazewell County-, are to be seen
from one side, while another view includes the
steamers plying on the river for a distance of five
miles; from the porch in the rear a beautiful view
is given of the fertile region whose beauties of held
and forest, lake and stream, make this section of
the Prairie State a veritable paradise.

The substantial residence has been the home of
Horace G. Anderson for a quarter of a century and
during this time the place ha.s taken on the charac-
ter of its occupants, as will be noticed in all homes
worthy of the name. Its walls have resounded to
the many tones of childish voices, to the sounds
which betoken the recreations and pursuits of youth,
and to all which goes to make up the enjoyment of
cultured manhood and womanhood. For some years
it has been known as a center from which refine-
ment and culture spread and elevating influences
are shed abroad. The owner of this place has re-
tired from active business pursuits after 3'ears of
enterprise during which he was prominently identi-
lied with various educational and social elements of
tlic city, as well as with more than one line of its
liiiancial interests.

The natal d.a^- of Mr. Anderson was September
13, 1822, and his birthplace Chautauqua County,
N. Y. His parents, Samuel and Elizabeth (Taylor)
Anderson, came to what is now Will County, 111.,
when the lad was ten years old, their home being
made fivs miles north of Joliet. After sojourning
there seven years thej' removed to DuPage County,
where our subject completed the years of youth
and attained his majoritj-. He then left home to
engage in teaching, afterward becoming a clerk in
Aurora, Chicago, Lockport, and Sheboygan, Wis.

In .lune, 1848, Mr. Anderson came to Peoria,
establishing himself on Water Street, in the lumber
business and continuing in that line until 1861. He
then sold out .nnd took hold of the Peoria Pot-
tery which he carried cui for two years, then buy-

ing the City Foundry cfe Machine .Shop, conducted
it successfully six years. His next business enter-
prise was a jobbing trade in hats and caps in which
he embarked in 1872. He was engaged in that
business when the Governor api)ointed him Canal
Commissioner, and he devoted himself to the duties
of his oflice four years. During that time the
Copperas Creek lock and dam was well started, the
lock being three hundred and fift}- feet long and
fifty feet in width of cut stone. The next public
appointment of Mr. Anderson was as United States
Ganger, in which he served seven years. Since the
expiration of his term of ollice he has not been
engaged in any business enterprise, but busies him-
self with the care of his estate and the enjoyment
of home and social life.

Mr. Anderson has held the position of Alder-
man, representing both the Fourth and Seventh
Wards. He has also been County Supervisor and
it was during his term of olfice that the present
courthouse was planned and begun. A building
comnuttee, of which he was a member, had been
appointed to submit a plan to the Board and the
outline plan of the building which is now one of
the prides of Peoria, was drawn and submittetl by
him. The court house is a model of convenience!
and artistic beauty, being well lighted, roomy and
aiipropriately adorned. Although not an archi-
tect, Mr. Anderson had made plans for other build-
ings, among them the Second AVard school and
Douglas school, for which his designs were accepted
as the best placed before the committee.

For a number of years Mr. Anderson served on
the School Board, during that time being instru-
mental in the erection of the first High School build-
ing. He was a Director of the First National Bank
at its organization and for some years thereafter.
He has been connected with other corporations,
but not as a Director. For many years he has been
identified with the Independent Order of Odd-Fel-
lows. He served in the Grand Lodge of Illinois for
five or six terms, was Grand Representative to the
Grand Lodge of the United States, from the Grand
Encampment of Illinois, two years, and for an
equal length of time was Grand Patriarch of the
Grand Encampment of Hlinois. For a few years
past ho has not been particularly active in the or

268

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

der. He purchaseil his present residence property
in 1852, owning- it until tlie location of the college
near him, wlien he sold, bnt onh* to purchase it
back again in a short time.

Mr. Anderson was fortunate in securing for liis
wife a woman of fine character, brilliant mind and
pleasing domestic qualities. She was born in Erie
County. X. Y.. June 12, 1829. bore the maiden
name of Melinda Arnold, and became the wife of
our subject September 20, 1852. To this union have
come eight children, seven of whom are living.
They are, Samuel A., now engaged in tlie rolling
mill at Kewanee, 111.; Emeliue, wife of J. E. Hol-
comb of Rockefeller, Lake County; Horace G., a
physician in South Chicago; Zoa F. at home; Eliza-
beth D. also at home; Robert W. in the planing
mill business in Peoria, and Sophia M. who is still
with her parents. All have been given fine edu-
cational advantages, among the means taken by
their father having been that of keeping a German
teacher in the house for eleven }-ears. Miss Zoa
having evinced .an especial talent for music, was
sent to Germany to complete her studies in that
artistic branch and remained abroad two years.
She is the finest musician in Peoria, whose citizens
are proud of her auility, deeming her skill a credil
to their city.

The reader will be pleaseil to notice, in connec-
tion ftith this sketch, a lithographic portrait of Mr.
Anderson, whose lineaments are familiar to all the
citizens of Peoria.

—I-

^ijUGUSTUS STOWELL was but a boy when
ll nl '"® parents brought him to this State. The
^^|\ famil}' first settled in Hancock County, and
resided about two years. In 1846 tliey removed to
Knox County and lived in Truro Townsliip for a
time, and then left that countj', some members of
the family going to Utah and others going to Kan-
sas, where Mrs. Laura Baker, the sister of our sub-
ject, was killed in a cyclone.

Ml. Stowell was reared to the life of a farmer
and remained on a farm until his twentieth year,
at which time he began to learn the harness-making

trade in Pekin. He served an apprenticeship of
less than two years and acquired an excellent prac-
tical knowledge of his calling. In 1850 our subject
opened a harness-shop in Rochester, without means
but good credit, and successfully carried on a busi-
ness there for some six years and cleared, above all
expenses, §1,000, but owing to the conflneraeut
undermining his health he concluded to again de-
vote himself to the calling to which he had been
bred, and, accordingly, went to St. Croix County,
Wis., where he was steadily engaged in agricultural
pursuits until 1869. In that jear he made another
move and selected Rochester as his place of abode.
In the following spring of 1870 he came to Mill-
brook Township, and located on his present farm.
He owns two hundred and sixty acres of land, two
hundred and forty acres lying in a body in Jlill-
brook Township, and twenty acres in Princeville
Township. He has virtually made his farm what
it is to-day, and by the hard work that he bestowed
upon it has i)laced it among the best class of farms
in this vicinity.

Mr. Stowell was married, in the month of Octo-
ber, 1850, to Am^' J. Hull, a daughter of Isaac and
Calista (Knight) Hull. Mr. and Mrs. Stowell have
had seven children, of whom the following six are
living: N.atlian A., in Wilson -Country, Kan.; Will-
iam W., in David City, Neb.; Isaac M., in Mill-
brook Township; Elvira J., at home; Maria, wife of
. Albert ]\liller, of Princeville Township; Alice, wife
of Joseph H. Miller, of David City, Neb. One
child died early in life.

It will be seen in the perusal of this sketch that
our subject is a prominent member of the f.arming
communit}' of this count}', that is doing so much
to sustain and extend the material prosperity of
this part of the State of Illinois. He is very skill-
ful in his calling, bringing a clear brain and a
thoughtful mind to bear upon the iDroblem.s that
confront the farmer who would till the soil after
the most approved methods, and his extensive
practical knowledge of his calling, his sagacious
management of his affairs, and his active enterprise
have gained him a substantial place among the well-
to-do citizens of this vicinity. For fourteen j'ears
he served as School Director, being well qualified
for that position, and has alwaj's interested himself

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALEUM.

269

in eihiL-alional and olliiT public matters, contribut-
ing generously' to all sucL things. He has sound
views on the political questions of the day and is a
true Democrat, giving faitiiful support to his partly.
lie served as Justice of the Peace four j'ears in
Millbrook Township, having also held that ofHce
for a period of six years while in Wisconsin. After
the expiration of his term here, he was re-elected to
tliat office, so well pleased had his constituents been
by liis just and impartial discharge of the duties of
his i)Osition, but he declined to qualify. While a
resident of St. Croix County, Wis., he served with
abilily as Supervisor of Rush River Township.

i>.ILLIAM WASHINGTON MOTT, the son

of a pioneer, and one who has performed
some pioneer labors himself and has thus
assisted in developing the agricultural resources of
Peoria County, has a well improved farm on sec-
ti(jn 34, Princeville Township, where he devotes
himself to farming and bee culture.

Our subject is a son of Dr. Oscar F. Mott, who
was born near Kinderhook, near Wayne Falls,
Krio County, N. Y. He was a medical practicioner
of the Thompsonian School, and also followed farm-
ing. He disliked the medical profession, although
ho was well versed in the Thompsonian methods,
and abandoning his i)ractice he came here in the
spring of 1837, with his family, to devote himself
to agricultural pursuits more exclusivel}-. He at
first rented land and cultivated it to advantage. but
finally bought a small farm of fifteen acres, on
which he spent the remainder of his life. His death
in 1863, was caused bj-an accidental discharge of a
gnn which a man was examining in a grocery store
in Princeville, the shot taking effect in his neck,
ami after a great deal of suffering he died in a few
days. He was the first mail carrier here, carrying
the mail on horseback to Peoria from Jubilee for
years, taking three days to make the trip in cold
weather. He was a man of sterling worth and was
a Universalist in his religious faith. Politically he
was a follower of the Democratic party. The
maiden name of his wife was Dcidauiia IJiinip, anil

she was born in Cazenovia, N. Y. Her father, Jon-
athan Bump, was a native of New England and was
one of the first settlers of that township, making
his home among the Indians of Red Jacket's tribe.
He cleared two farms and followed agriculture until
his demise. He was a soldier in the War of 1812,
and was near there at the burning of Buffalo. The
mother of our subject was an inmate of his home
until her death, and he looked tenderly aftc her
comfort. She was a Baptist in religion and was
ever true to the faith. She died December 31 , 1875.

Three of the children of the parents of our sub-
ject grew to maturity : Richard F., who died in
Santa Clara, Cal.; our subject, and Joseijhine E.
Two of their children died j'oung — Oscar Philander
and Eugene. Josephine JNlott, who was educated
for a teacher and has engaged in that profession,
malvcs her home with her brother.

The subject of this biographical sketch was born
in Boston Township, N. Y., August 19, 1830, and
there passed the first seven j'ears of his life. In 1837
he accompanied his father to Buffalo, where they
embarked on a steamer for Chicago, and from the
latter place took a team for Peoria County and
Princeville Township. He grew to a sturdy vigor-
ous manhood under the pioneer influences that he
obtained here in early times, growing up with the
county, as it were. It was, when he came here, wild
and sparsely settled, and there was much wild game
roaming over the prairies and uplands and through
the timber, and as he grew older he took great de-
light in the hunt which has alwaj^s been his hobby,
and became very expert in the use of the rifle,
often killing as many as two deer a day, which
supplied the table with meat. He resided on the
fifteen-acre place that his father had purchased un-
til 1868, and then bought a farm of forty acres on
section 27, on which he located and entered upon
its improvement. He built a substantial house,
drawing the lumber for it from Chillicothe and
doing the carpenter work himself with an assistant.
He engaged in that trade somewhat besides tilling
the soil. In 1876 he sold that place and bought his
present farm of eighty acres on section 34, which
was covered with timber, and in the groves still
standing wolves are found to this da3^ Jlr. I\Iott
set luisilj' about its improvement, put up a com-

270

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

fortable fl welling, has fenced in three large fields,
which he devotes to raising corn and oats, and
also has a fine giaper\' and an apiary comprising
twcntj'-seven hives of hees, the honey whicli lie se-
cures being a profitable source of income. Mis place
is supplied with good outlmiidings, excellent ma-
chinery, and is always kept in good order.

Mr. Mott is of a practical turn of mind and by
careful attention to his calling, he has acquired a
competence amply sufficiant to free him from the
necessity of hard lalior, and to fortify his declining
years against want and poverty. I'.olh he and his
sister are held in kindly regard l)y the i)eople among
whom tlipy iiave lived so manj' years. Mr. Mott
has borne an lionorable p.Trt in the pulilic life of his
township; was Commissioner of Highways for three
years; Palhmastcr for six terms, and School Di-
rector for one term, and in each and every capac-
it}' proved to be a wise and helpful official. He is ■
prominently connected with the Independent Order
of Odd-Fellows, and assisted'in organizing a lodge at
Prineeville, known as Diligence Lodge, No. 129,
after tiie first lodge tliat had been established here
was closed during the war. In his early life our
subject was a Democrat, but is now independent in
his politics, voting as he pleases and for whom he
pleases. lie is a Sabbatarian a]id a purely- religious
man.

RA SMITH: If long >ears of honorable life
entitle a man to the respect of posterit}', then
/1\ is Capt. Smith, pre eminently deserving of a
place in this Album. For near seventy-fonr years
he walked tiie eartli, and from early life his in-
fluence and example were on the side of sobriety,
honesty, and unaffected piety.

Mr. Smith was born in Hampden, Me., on the
5th of Januar3', .1806, and lived to be seventeen
or eighteen years cf age in the place of his
birth. During this time he pursued such studies
as were possible in the schools of that period.
Being drawn to the sea, as is the case with many
of the sons of the Pine Tree State, he followed
his natural bent, his first sea service being during
a term of enlistment on board a man-of-war.

Young Smith was much troubled because he was
expected to go forward and take his grog with the
others, the pr.actice of su[)pl3'ing sailors with New
England rum, being then in force on all vessels.
He tried selling the rum to others, but this was
stopped b}' the officers, and his attempt to throw
his allowance away was also put a stop to. His
studious and orderly habits having attracted the
attention of the oflicers, he .asked to have his grog
stopped, and his request was granted. It was then
aiHKiunced by those in command, that any others
who did not want grog would be allowed ^2.50 per
month extra. But few accepted the offer.

When Mr. Smith became master of his own ves-
sel, he determined to get a crew who would go
without liquor. The harbor-master told him it was
impossil)le to do so in Boston. He, however, hung
out a sign announcing that he would allow no grog
except in cases of sickness, and wanted onl}' men
who were willing to go without it. It was some
time bef(^ie he picked up a crew, but he finally suc-
ceeded, and was ihe first captain to sail from Bos-
ton harbor under temperance regulations.

After the expiration of his three and a half years
enlistment on a man-of-war, Mr. Smith continued
his seafaring life, visiting different parts of the
world until IS.'iT. A few years prior to this date,
he had married, and through the influence of his
wife, who desired to get him far awa}* from the
sea, he came to Peoria County, III., in June, of
that j'Car. He purchased a farm, but having al-
ways been accustomed to activitj' in business, the
peaceful life of a farmer did not satisfy him, ani
he sold his land to engage in the lumber trade. In
1849 be established the business in which he con-
tinued until well advanced in 3'ears when he re-
tired, but not being contented with an inactive life,
with his son he .again engaged in business, continu-
ing it until his death, December 16, 1879. His
first location was on Water Street, but he afterward
moved up to Washington Street. He was one of
the early lumber dealers of Peoria, prominent in
that line of trade, and had an excellent reputation
for business ability and honor.

Mr. Smith bought property on the blutf on both
sides of Moss Avenue down to Seventh Street, erect-
ing a residence which was a fine one for that period.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

271

Here his widow is still liviii"^ in the home wliich

has slieltciHMl her fm- iiKire llian ;i third of a cctit-
ury. Slie has a hirge and elegant lawn, tlio sur-
ronndinii's of lier dwelling making it very attract-
ive and indicating the relineraiMit of her nature.
She is a native of Tlioniaston, Me., horn Novcniher
•20, 1813, lo David and Sarah R. Jenks. After the
age of sixleen years, siie S|)ent nnicli of her time in
Boston, where she first met the man to whom, on
October 10, 1831, she was joined in wedlock.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith lieeanie llie parents of seven
children, of whom Init four are now living: Ira,
■Ir., died at tiie age of nineteen j'ears, and two otii-
ers in infancy; Sarah Ann is the wife of Isaac Cal-
lander, of Galesburg, 111., and the mother of eight
children; JMary E. is the wife of David K. Holmes,
a ministei'of the Congregational Cluireh, now loca-
ted at Galva, 111., and their family comprises one
child; James H. tiow resides in Chicago, engaged
in the lumliei', laml. and iiis\irance business; Kmily
A. is the wife of Dr. .lames I'idgeon, autl the
mother of one child. Mrs. Sarah D. Smith has ten
grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren liv-
ing. A true gentlewoman, she is .as thoroughly
respected as any citizen of l'ct)ria, and is looked
ui)on as one of the landnnuks of the place. She
is an attendant and supporter of the Congrega-
tional Church, as w.as her deceased husband.

E|fe^^

l»ILLTAM GILLFI LLIAN. No one takes

/^ y, more interest in I'eoria County's welfare
>^'\j/ or would do more for its adx'ancemcnt
than its native-liorn citizens, who ar(i to-day vari-
ously- identified with its industries. Our subject,
the son of a pioneer, is doing his share in sustain-
ing its high reputation as one of the finest countries
for agriculture that the sun ever shr>ne on. He
owns and is managing with i)rofit a choice farm of
one hundred and eighty-three acres on section 0,
Chillicothe Township, on vvhich, during the four-
teen years it has been in his possession, he has made
several additional iniprovements, greatlj- increasing
its value, aTid its well-tilled fields give evidence of
his careful cultivation as well as of his practical

knowledge of farming. He does a general farming
business and is interested in raising stock.

Mr. Gillfillian was born in this township and
county, near where he now lives, September 30,
1852. His father, James Gillfllli.'in, was a native of
Ohio, coming of mingled Irish and Pennsylvania
Dutch stock. He grew to manhood on a farm in
Ross Count)', and e.arly in the '30"s when a young-
man, came to the wilds of Illinois with his mother,
his father, having died |jreviously in Ohio. Thej-
located south of I'eoria near Ivickapoo, I'eoria then
being a small place known as Ft. Clark. A few
years later they removed to Hallock Township, and
there the mother clied at the advanced age of eighty
years, her death occurring in 1874. She was a
truly good woman and was highly thought of by
all who knew her. She was the mother of seven sons
and three daughters, of whom only one son is now
living, Henry, a resident of Hallock Township.

James (iiillillian was first mariied in Indiana to
Miss Mary Chisam who died after a married life of
three years, leaving two children, both of whom aie
now dead. Her death occtn-red in Indiana, while
she was thereon a visit. The father of our subject
was married a second time in Hallock Township,
taking to wife Miss Jane Martin. She was born in
Illinois, and came to Peoria C(>unty, when in
her girlhood. Jlr. (iillfillian and his wife lived in
Peoria County, until 1858, when they went to
Kansas and thence to Texas. They were in the
Lone Star State when the War broke out, and
startetl northward but succeeded only in getting as
far .as Conw.ay County, Ark., where they were com-
pelled to stay with the rebels. Mr. (iiillillian being
blind in one eye was not compelled to serve in the
Confederate army against the North. He and his
family remained in Arkansas until 18Gt, and then
the presence of Union troops enabled them to conic
northward, and they again located in Peoria, and
very soon afterward the father died there when
past the meridian of life. His widow is still living
in that city, with her daughter Jose|)hine, and is
now fifty-two years old. She is the mother of three
sons and two daughters, whom she has reared to
good and useful lives, and who are still living.

William Gillfillian, of this biographical rcTiew,
was the oldest son and second child of the parental

272

rORTKAlT AND T.K )( ;1JAP1IICAL ALBUM.

family. He wasreaictl to agiicultinal pursuits.has
iiiaile farming liis life work, anil lias been prospered
in all his unclcrtakipgs. He was^married in C'hilli-
cotlie to Miss Kate McDermitt, and she has been an
important factor in promoting his success. She
was born in Jvew York City, Januarj- 1, 1853. and
was but a year old when she came here with her
parents, Barney and Anne (Co.sgrove) McDermitt,
wlio were both burn and reared in Ireland, and im-
mediately after their marriage came to this eountrj'.
After coming to Illinois they settled in Chillicothe,
and lived in this section of the county until 1?86,
when they moved to C'la}' County, Neb., and lo-
cated on a newly im[)roved farm and are still mak-
ing that their home. They are now upwards of
lifi3" years of age. and are good hard-working peo-
ple, and useful and honorable members of the com-
munity where they reside. Mrs. GillQllian was
reared and educated in Chillicothe, and is a verj^
capable, refined and estimable woman. She is the
mother of six children, one of whom, Anna, died at
the age of four months. The others are at home
and uamed as follows: Hose A., John R., Clara
Louisa, Kittle B. and Bessie E.

Our subject and his wife are open-hearted hos-
pitable people, whose sterling characters commend
them to the confidence of the conimunity. Mrs.
GillflUian is a communicant of the Catholic Church,
and is active in its ever}' good vvork. Mr. Gill-
flUian, is much interested in the political life of his
country, and is a lirm supporter of the Democratic
party.

^?5)E0RGE FLACK. The members of the
jll farming communities occupy an important

^^^ place in the life of our country, supplying
as they do the primary needs of existence and
exhibiting in their lives the sterling virtues which
pertain to true manhood. A worthy member of this
class is the gentleman above named, who occupies
a well-developed estate in Rosefield Township. It
consists of one hundred and ninety acres, where
during the season fine crops may be seen and where
various kinds of stock are raised in considerable

numbers. The possession of so good a home is
creditable to the owner, indicating that he has been
industrious, i)rudeiit and zealous.

Mr. Plack was born in Biedenkopf, Prussia, Oc-
tober 28, 18,35, being the fourth child of John
Henry and Elizabeth (Roht) Plack. His parents
were natives of the same [ilace as himself and his
father was a farmer and miller. He was also a
member of the German army, serving according to
the custom of the couutrj'. He belonged to the
Lutheran Church in which be held the ofiice of
Trustee. Besides our subject, the parental family
comprised Elizabeth, now the wife of Henry Kesler
of Nebraska; Maggie, deceased; Henry; John, now
living in St. Louis, Mo., and Anna Maria, wife of
Jacob Delxl, of Jefferson Count}-, Mo. The father
died in Germany and the mother came to America
in 1859 with her son, our subject, and other mem-
bers of the family, settling in Jefferson County,
Mo., where she died about four years later. The
oldest and youngest members of the family had
emigrated a few years earlier than the mother.

After having lived in Jefferson County, Mo.,
until 1871, George Plack came to Peoria County
and purchased one hundred and six acres of lard
on section 4, Rosefield Township. He subsequently
sold thirty- six acres, then bought eighty, and at
other periods sold or bought, having at one time
two hundred and sixty-six acres. When he landed
in America he had about $100 in money. In his
efforts to secure a good home lie was ably .-ieconded
by his companion whose prudent management of
household affairs was an important factor in his suc-
cess. The wife to whom he owed his comfort and
a portion of his prosperity from July 16, 18o9,
when they were united in marriage, until her death
in 1873, bore the maiden name of Helena Jiede.

Mrs. Plack was born in the same section of Ger-
many as our subject. She became the mother of
eight children, two of vrhom died with her in Au-
gust, 1873. The survivors are Elizabeth, wife of
George Koch; Anna Maria, wife of Henry Huhn;
Maggie, wife of Conrad Schwartz; Henrj'; Joseph
and John. The estimable woman who now presides
over the home of Mr. Plack, looking well to the
ways of her household, was born in Germany and
came to the United States with her mother about

T'ORTRAIT A^M) lUOfJRAPHICAL ALBUM.

273

1874. She was formerly Miss Elizabeth Jiede, and is
the mother of six chililreii — Louisa C, I'hilip,
Kiltie, George, Tlieodore and one wiio died when six
months old. Mr. and Mrs. Plack belong to the
Lutheran Cluireh, and are highly esteemed by their
associates therein and by others to whom the^' are
known.

o<r x> .

' oC<>

\i;' ASON H1^■MA^'. Among those who, after
laboring long and well in the dcveloiiment
of.IIallock Township, have gone to their
long home, none are more worthy of remem-
brance than the subject of this sketch, who was well
and favorably known in this part of the county.
lie had come hither with but a small store of this
world's goods, but b^' the exercise of prudence,
wise economy and unrcmilting industry, had ac-
cumidated a good property. His occupation was
that of a farmer and dairyman. At his pleasant
home he breathed his last, November :t, 187(). his
career cut short in his forty-second year b}- the
(lire disease, consumption. He was a native of
Pitcher, Chenango County, N. Y., his natal day
having been March 2, 1835.

The father of our subject was James Ilinni.in, a
native and life-long resident of the Empire State,
wlio passed away in middle life. He was a black-
smith, quite [)romineiit in his business, and consid-
ered a worth}' citizen. He left a wife and nine
children. The widow and family drifted into Ohio,
later coming to Illinois and living for some 3 cars in
Hallock Townshi)), Peoiia County. Two daugh-
ters returned to their native .State, to which the
widowed mother followed them when quite old,
dying soon afterward. She was a. member of the
Cougregational Church, to which nu)st of the chil-
dren adhered, although a part of the family united
with the Methodist Episcoi>al Church. Her uiaidcn
name was Marcia Terrell.

Jason Hinnian was one of the younger mcniljers
of the parental family, six of whom arc yet living,
the most of them residents of Illinois. He was
reared and educated in his native county, learning
the trade of a harness-maker, with which equip-
ment for the battle of life he came to Illinois. Af-

ter reaching here, however, he began farm work in
partnership with his brother Marcus, being thus
engaged at the breaking out of the Civil Wp.r. He
abandoned the plow, and joining the Eifty-seventli
Illinois Infantry, on October 20, 1801, went at once
to the front to take his part in the struggles to de-
fend the old Hag. He was enrolled in Company K,
which was under the command of Capt. Harry, and
with the rest of the regiment first saw the smoke of
battle at Corinth. Prior to this he had the measles,
and exposure soon compelled him to return home
on a furlough. As soon as his health was sufH-
ciently improved, he rejoined his regiment, but a
relapse caused acute bronchitis, and he was dis-
charged for disability in April, 18(32.

Mr. Hinman resumed his agricultural labors in
the Prairie State as soon as his strength would .al-
low, although his condition continued to show the
effects of the old illness which ere long developed
into consumption, which terminated fatally in spite
of all the efforts which were made to restore his
health. His Last days were cheered by the Chris-
tian's faith, he having long been a member of the
Congregational Church. Li politics he was a sound
Republican, active in the local work of his party.
The general verdict at his death was that an hon-
est, upright and conscientious man had been re-
moved from earth.

The marriage of Mr. Hinman and Miss Mary J.
Barker, was celebrated in the city of Peoria. The
bride was born in Coventry-, Chenango Count}', N.
Y., October 12. 1833, and is a daughter of Charles
and Armina (Smith) Barker. She was well and
carefidly reared by most estimable parents, receiv-
ing the most of her education after coming to
Peoria County. Her natural abilities have been
strengthened ami (h'Vfloiicd by her surroundings,
and she has bcccnne a iiromineut member of the
coniinunity. She now owns about one hundred
au<l fifty acres of tine. wcll-im|iroved laiul, in the
mau.agement of which, and the business affairs con-
nected therewith, she manifests executive and busi-
ness talent of a high order. She is strong-minded
in the true sense of that word, while her character
as a Christian ivomau is in keeping with her mental
powers. She belongs to the Congregational Church.

The parents of Mrs. Hinman were born in Greene

274

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

and Piilnam Counties, N. Y., respectively, and be-
<;:in llieir wedded life on a farm in the former.
Some years after their marriage they changed their
residence, and after having sojourned for various
periods in Almond, New York City, and the State of
New .Jersey, they finally, in 1846, came to Illinois.
The}' began life here somewhat as pioneers in Peo-
ria Countj', but i^rior to his death, JNIr. Barker had
secured a good home. His demise occurred Octo-
ber 24, 1888, at the age of eighty-five years, he
having been born November 4, 1803.. lie retained
his mental and jihysical strength until his last days,
and up to within a very few years of his (U'ath, led
the choir of tiie Congregational Church, of which he
was a faithful member. He was a great Bible stu-
dent, capable of expounding its truth with force.
He was ever}' where known as one of the most hon-
est and straightforward of men. upright in every
respect. In no sense an ollice-seeker, he was a
strong supporter of the Republican party.

The mother of Mrs. Hinman is still living, now
more than eighty-five years of age, but physically
active and mentally bright. She retains loving re-
membrances of the companion with whom she
spent sixty-one years of wedded life, and whom she
looks forward to meeting in the land where part-
ing will be no more. She has been for yeais a
member of the Congregational Church. Her fam-
ily consists of three daughters, of whom Mrs. Hin-
man is the youngest. The others are P^lecta, wife
of Lee Hallister, of Arlington, Kan.; and Augusta,
wife of Munson Hinman, a blacksmith of Hallock
Township, this county.

ATTHKW MCDONNELL. No better
example can be found in Haliock Town-
'-K ship of the practical thrift, encrg}-, and
industry which results in the accumulation
of a goodly share of this world's goods, than in the
person of the gentleman above named, whose home
is pleasantly located on section 20. He possesses
a large estate, comprising eight hundred and eighty
acres, the most of which is highly improved, while
the buildings which have been erected upon it are

most excellent, comprising every structure needful
for the furtherance of his business. The barn is a
noticeable feature, justly considered one of the best
in the county, and is of sufficient size to accommo-
date more than one hundred head of stock, to-
gether vrith feed for the same. It is 42x85 feet,
with a basement, with the most approved arrange-
ment and Sittings. The dwelling is a substantial
one, within which order and good cheer abound.

i\Ir. McDonnell is a native of the Emerald Isle,
born in County Louth in 1828, and represents a
good old family. In 184.i he emigrated to Amer-
ica, and making his home in Philadelphia, Pa.,
found employment as a laborer at ¥5 per month.
When his wages were advanced to 19 per month,
and still later to $11, he felt that he was on the
high road to prosperity, and when, still later, he re-
ceived 114 per month, he considered himself the
reci[)ient of wonderful remuneration. In 1850 he
removed to Peoria County, 111., with the determin-
ation to make a good home, and well has he suc-
ceeded in his efforts. He has been cautious in his
investments, quick to note an opportunity to im-
prove his methods or management, and ever lead-
ing in hard work those whom he cmploj'ed.

The wife of Air. McDonnell was formerly Miss
Catherine Cash, and like himself is a native of the
Emerald Isle, but born in County Kilkenny in
1832. .She was about of age when she came to
America with an uncle who settled in the city of
Peoria, III., where she remained some lime. After
she h.ad been here a few years, she sent for her par-
ents, John and Mary (Welsh) Cash, and while they
were on their way, the mother died at New Or-
leans, La. She was then in middle life. Mr. Cash
continued his journey to the Prairie State, and some
years later died in Hallock Township, this county,
being about seventy years of age. He and his wife
were members of the Catholic Church.

Mrs. McDonnell has ably assisted her husband in
the upbuilding of his fortunes, her thrifty- manage-
ment of domestic affairs and good counsel being no
small factors in his success. Their children also
have done their share since they arrived at a suit-
able age, in adding to the comforts as well as the
joys of home. The family comprises four living
children, and six were removed in early life by the

zJcAyi. iy^ 4: r^i^^Jei^

PORTRAIT AND BIOORAPIIICAL ALBUM.

277

hand of death. The living ehihlren are: John,
Tlionias, Callierine, and Matliew, Jr. The second
son is working the farm, and the two ciiildren ,
j'oiuiger than he. "re also at home. Joiiii married
Miss Kliza Phiiicivct, and the_v live un a f^uni in
Halloelc Township.

.Mr. McDonnell is a sound Democrat in his politi-
cal views, while in his religious f;iilh he isa<levout
Catholic, as were his |)arents before hiin. The en-
tire family are coninuinicauts of the same church.
Their honorable efforts to advance their persona!
interests, while treating tlfose about them with hon-
esty and kindliness, have secured the respect of
other members of the community, and made many
to rejoice in the success with which the^- have been
rewarded.

The father of our subject was another Mathevv
McDonnell, a native of County Louth. Ireland. who
grew up to the business of a farmer, and' was thus
engaged during his entire active life. His last years
were spent in the United .States, to which he came
in 1847, dying in Peoria County, 111., in 185L- lie
was then about three-score j-ears of age. His wife,
a native of the same counl3-as himself, and of pure
Irish ancestry, bore the maiden name of JaneFedi-
gan. She lived and died in the land of her birth,
passing away when of middle age. She was the
mother of two sons and three daughters, of whom
our subject is the youngest. He is now the onl}-
one of the family living to relate the history of
their settlement here, to which country four of the
children came.

OHN I5IRKET. In order to better preserve
the history of one who bore a very import-
ant part in laying the solid foundation of
Peoria's prosperity, a brief record of the life
work of John Birket is placed upon the pages of
this BioGRAPiiicAi. Albc.m, dedicated to the citi-
zens of Peoria County. He was one of the earliest
pioneers of Peoria, and for many years was promi-
nently identified with its growth; by his liberal
contributions to aid all schemes for promoting the

material, social and religious advancement of the
city, he did much to bring it to its present stand-
ing as one of the foremost cities of the State.

Our subject was born in Lancashire, England,
^larch 8,1798. He early learned the trade of a
carixMiter. and in 1819. duiing the opening years
of a stalwart manhood, emigrated to this country,
landing iu I'liiladclpliia some time in the month of
June. Froi:; there he went to Albany. N. Y.. by
sloop, and thence to Ferrysburg, Vt. He piirsueil
his trade in the latter place some si.x years, and then
started for the wild prairies of Illinois in the fall
of 1824. He did not come directly here, however,
but stopped in Plainsville, Ohio, until the spring
of 1825, when he came to Peoria by w.igon. He
was engaged en route as a peddler, carrying tea,
coffee, calicoes, etc.. and arrived at the |)resentsite
of Peoria on the 6th of January. I82(). At that
time there were but six families in Peoria besides
the Indians who still lived here.

On the day after he came Mr. Birket bought a
claim comprising one hundred and fifty-four acres
on the northeastern part of section 3, and then es-
tablished himself at his trade, and in the spring
planted the first nursery in this section. Mr. Birket
planted the first nursery in Peoria from seed
brought from Vermont in 1826. He was at one
time called on as a guard to care for the first
murderer of the region, and whilst performlug that
duty the Indians entered his home. Luckilj- he
returned soon, as two of the Indians were still there,
and after he had driven them off he found that the}-
had stolen §200. At another time several Indians
entered his house one night,and he awoke to find one
of them reaching for his throat. He jumped from
his bed, caught the Indian b}- the hip and demanded
to know what they wanted. Upon answering "fire
water," he told them they could have it at sunrise.

At the time of the Black Hawk War ail the in-
habitants for miles along the Illinois entered Ft.
Clark for protection. Mr. Birket, with cliaracter-
istic coolness and courage, remained outside bury-
ing all his meats and valuables so that the Indians
might not have the benefit of them if they came
in that direction. Prior to that on one occasion
when the Indians were molesting the whites, he
was also the only one who remained at his home.

278

PORTRAIT AND BIOCxRAPIIlCAL ALUl'M.

and that was the first time that he ever locked his
door, which was done with a chip.

During the first years of liis residence in Peoria
County, Mr. Birliet was engaged in many pioneer
enterprises, and planted the first orchard in what is
now the corporate limits of the city of Peoria; from
this he raised the first apples and other fruit in the
county. About 1831 he sent about a half peek of
apples to a former neighbor who was then living at
Ft. Dearborn (Chicago). Those apples were sent
bv a gentleman, who in order to secure a marriage
license had come from that place to Peoria, then
the countj'-.'scat of the northeastern portion of the
State. This illustrates the strong bond of friend-
ship existing among the old settlers.

In 1839 Mr. Birket removed to Tazewell Count}',
where he bought four hundred acres of land and
engaged in manufacturing lumber. After ten 3'ears
residence there he returned to Peoria and lived
here until his death, October IG, 1874; thus
was closed a life well rounded in years and filled
with those deeds that make a man in the fullest
sense of the word ; this city, for which he did much,
mourned the death of a revered citizen and still
clierishes his memory as one of its most useful pio-
neers. His hand was felt in many enterprises that
were inaugurated for the benefit of tlie community,
and es(>ecially was he generous in his support of
the church, his donations in that direction being
quite considerable ; among them were ten acres of
land, which afterward became Gallagher's Addition
to Peoria, and he gave an acre of land to Ju-
bilee College and substantial aid in liehalf of St.
Paul's Church. He donated all of block No. 127,
and half of block No. 1 1 G,to the Protestant Episcopal
diocese of Illinois to be used as the site of a church.
The land comprising Keigliin's Addition to Peoria
once belonged to him, and he gave it all to a man
for plastering his house, which goes to show either
the small value of the land at that time, or the
enormous cost of plastering.

In the accumulation of his proper!}' Mr. Birket
received substantial aid from his wife, who pre-
ceded him in death many 3'ears, dying December
24, 1852. She was married to our subject August
17, 1831. Her maiden name was Maijor}' Thomas,
and she was a daughter of Col. John Thomas, who

was killed by the Indians at Chillicothe, Ohio. The
widow of Co). Thomas died in Peoria, December 27.
1850.

John Charles Birket, the son of John Birket, of
whom we have just written, was born in Peoria
February 3, 1834, and was reared under the influ-
ences of pioneer life, receiving his education in pri-
vate schools. He gave his attention to farming
for a number of years, although he lias alwa3's
dealt in real estate more or less since he began life
on his own account, and now makes it his principal
business. Mr. Birket is very fond of his home, has
never cared to travel, and has never been out of
his native State. He is a firm Republican in politics.

The union of John C. Birket and Ann Jane
Grundy in the hoh' bonds of matrimony was cele-
brated January 1, 1868, and has been blessed 1)3'
the birth of five children, namely : Mary A. J.,
John Charles, Walter A. and William E. (twins),
and Louisa Isabel. Mrs. Birket is the daughter of
Edmund and Jane Grundy, natives of Bolton, Eng-
land, where Mrs. Bii-ket was also born. The3' came
to Peoria in 1849, and aided in the development of
the county from its uncultivated condition to one
of prosperit3'.

In connection with this sketch the reader will
notice a lithographic portrait of the late John Bir-
ket, whose name is still held in loving remembrance
though he has long since passed from earth.

iOBERT ARMSTRONG, a man of wealth
and an extensive landowner, now residiu"-
Ji "^ in Knox County, was among the first comers
in Peoria County in the earl}- days of its
settlement, and the historj' of this section of the
State, as told in the records of the lives of its citi-
zens on these |)ages. would be incomplete without a
sketch of his life and work, as he was an earl}- set-
tler of Millbrook Township, and was prominent
among the leading pioneers of the county, and it
gives us great pleasure to be enabled to represent
him in this I>u>Gi;ArHic.\L Album.

Our venerable subject is a native of Scotland,
and was born in that countr}' August 12, 1805,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

279

coming of sterling- Scotcii ancestry. His parents,
J;itnes and Agnes Armstrong, were also of Scottish
hirlli. Our subject passetl iiis cliihlhood, youth,
mill the (iiieniiig years of his manhood in Dumfries-
sliire, the shire of his nativity, and was mostly en-
giigrnl in herding sheep until he came here. His
opportunities for attending school were limited, but
lie acquired some book-learning in si)ile < f the dis-
advantages under which he labored, and by self-
education has acquired a good fund of useful
knowledge. In 183G, in the prime of a vigorous,
healthy manhood, he left home and native land,
ambitious to see if life did not hold something bet-
ter for him in the large and powerful Republic
across the sea, to which so many of his countrymen
had wended their waj'. He embarked on a vessel
at Liverpool, and six weeks and two daj'S later he
step|)ed foot on Ameri<'an soil, landing in tiie great
metropolis of the country, and coming directly to
this county. He was not without means, as are so
many foreigners who land on these shores, but had
sutHcicnt capital to invest in quite a large tract of
wild land on section (!, Millbrook Township, com-
prising three hundred and twenty acres mostly in
timber and brush, and he purchased it from theGov-
ernnu'nt,i)aying ><1.2r) an acre. He was one of the first
to settle in Millbrook Township, and there were not
many white men ne.'ir him, but there was a trilje of
four hundred Indians north of him a little way.
However he was not long troubled with their pres-
ence, as the Government removed them further
westward the same fall.

When he settled on bis homestead, Mr. Arm-
strong bad a large amount of [jioneer work to do
in clearing awav the forest and iireparing the land
for cultivation, and also had to build a shoUer for
his family. He actively entered upon the hard task
before him witli a courageous heart and a steady
determination to succeed in his undertakings. His
lirst employment was to Ijuild a log house, 18x24
feet in dimensions, which was his dwelling the next
ten years until he found time to erect a more com-
modious and comfortable house, with which he at
leiigth rei)laccd his first primitive abode. In the
course of years he put his land under excellent till-
age, and constantly made valuable inii)rovements
until his farm came to be regarded as one of the

most desirable in all Millbrook Township. He has
added to his original purchase, anil now has four-
hundred and seventy acres of land in Peoria and
Knox Counties. He continued to live in Mill-
brook Township until the s[)ring of 1887, when he
removed with his wife to their present pleasant
home near the county line in Knox County, and
near Rochester.

Mr. Armstrong has been twice married. He was
first wedded to Mrs. Rachel Clifford, who bore him
two children, Agnes and Lena, the latter of whom
is deceased. Agnes is the wife of John Kaus, of
Knox County.

The maiden name of our subject's |)resent wife was
Agnes Brown, and she is, like himself, a native of
the land of the Scots, born in A3'reshire, in the
month of January, 181C, a daughter of William
Brown. Her mother died when she was a mere
child. Her early years were passed in Scotland,
and when she was thirty-three years of age, she
came to America and to this county, and in due
time married Mr. Armstrong, and has been to him
all that is implied in the term, a true wife. Three
children have been born to our subject of this
union, of whom two are living, Robert, and Jane,
the wife of Charles Waldon, of Knox County. The
name of the child wlio died, was James.

The sunset of life finds our subject and his es-
timable wife serenely .awaiting life's great end, in
freedom from the cares and labors that beset them
in the heat of the day, in a home whose comforts
and luxuries have boon procured by the ample com-
petence that is the fruit of their united toil when
they were young. It has been said that the trials
and liardshii)S that the pioneers encountered in their
struggles in building up this count r}', strengthened
their character and better fitted them for the cares
and responsibilities of after life, making them have
a warmer side for their fellow-men, and creating a
willingness to lend a helping hand to those who are
in distress. This is eminently true of Mr. and Mrs.
Armstrong, and their names are synonyms of love
and charity, while many have cause to bless their
benefactions, and are among the warm friends they
have gathered around them in the long 3'ears they
have lived in this State. Thej- are true Christian
peo[iIe, and are devoted members of the Congro-

280

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

gational Church. Mr. Armstrong has served as
School Director, and has in various ways earnestly
sought to elevate the social, moral, and educational
status of the community. A man of intelligent
views on all subjects, and having decided opinions
of his own, he is independent in politics, and votes
for the man rather than for part3'.

-»*»-

-o»o>^y^.,A^..o4o-

!()SEPH S. BARNUM. This cognomen is
familiar, not only to the residents of Prince-
ville,wliere its possessor abides, but through-
out the county and adjoining country-. He
who bears it is the editor of the Prinoeville Tele-
7)7('i//e, a live, eight-column folio, and the publisher
of the Home Advocate, a weekly prohibition pajier
that was started June 6, 1889. under control of the
Prohibition party of the Congressional district. A
careful reader of the accompanying :jotes will form
a just conclusion regarding some of the traits in
the character of our subject and his fitness for the
work which he is now carrying on.

The Barnum family is oi English extraction and
members of it settled in New England man^- years
ago. In Danbury, Conn., the grandfather of our
subject, Ijethuel Barnum, was boru, going thence
to the Catskill Mountains in boyhood. Ho became
the owner of a farm, also carrying on milling and
participating in the straggle against British tyr-
anny in the latter part of the eighteenth centurj'.
His son .labez became a contractor in turnpike and
similar work. About 1830 the latter removed to
Detroit, Mich., continuing his contracting but also
paying some attention to farming. He subse-
qnentlj' operated a farm in Kalamazoo County',
whence in 185G he removed to Hardin County,
Iowa. There he entered laud and continuid farm-
ing until his death. lie filled various local ofHces,
being highlj' regarded by his fellow-citizens. lie
was a sturdy Republican, and during slavery times
an .\bolitionist. He belonged to the I'.aittist Church.
The wife of Jabez Barnum was Anna Goodsell,
a native of the Catskill region in New York. Her
father was a hunter and trapper, and during the
RevoUitioiiary War served the Colonists as a scout,

He finallj' removed to Wayne County, Mich., where
he died on a farm. He was of Welsh descent. Mrs.
Anna (Goodsell) Barnum breathed her h.st in Iowa.
She was the mother of ten children, seven of whom
grew to maturit}- and three are now living. The
survivors are: A. G., of Ackley, Iowa; Joseph S.,
of this notice, and Mrs. Elizabeth Rice, of Frank-
lin County, Iowa.

The gentleman of whom we write was born in
Detroit, Mich., Maj' 3, 1832, and reared to about
the age of eleven j'ears in his native city. He then
accompanied his parents to Kalamazoo County,
completed his education at .Schoolcraft and Battle
Creek Academies, and on the home farm received
parental advice and instruction. In 18.5G he went
to Iowa, traveling with a team from Rock Island
to Hardin Couutj', where he bought one hundred
and sixty acres of land. He located upon it and
made it his home for some jears. He devoted him-
self to surveying four years, during a part of this
time filling the ottice of County Surveyor, and
aftci the expiration of the two years for which he
was elected continuing his professional work. A
part of the time of his residence near Ackley was
devoted to teaching.

In 18G4 Mr. Barnum came to Peoria County.
111., on a visit, and on the 23d of November his
marriage was celebrated with Miss llattie Benja-
min. This intelligent and worthj' lady was boru in
Medina Township, where her wedding was cele-
brated. For a time Mr. Barnum engaged in various
pursuits, among them being farming, and in the fall
of 1868 removed with his family to Topeka, Kan.
He built a home in tluit city, but afterward |Hir-
chased three hundred" and sevent\--five acres of land
in Jefferson County, on the Grasshopper River,
which he improved and operated until the spring of
1873. He then sold his real estate and in the fall
took up his residence in Princeville. this county.
He traveled as a collector for Eastern houses and
was otherwise occupied until December 1, 1880,
when he took charge of the seven-column folio, the
Princeville Independent.

In 1881 Mr. Barnum bought the sheet which he
was conducting, and making of journalism a suc-
cess, he enlarged the paper which on September
27, 1883, was first issued under its new name the

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

281

Telephone. Mr. Banuim wields :i ready pen, evinces
good judgment in the selection of matter for pub-
lication, and is doing nuich to advance the welfare
of his town and mold the sentiments of its people.
In addition to the publishing of his own paper aiul
the Home Advocate, he also does general job work.
As might he expected from the publication of
which lie lias ciiarge, Mr. Baruuni is now a Prohi-
bitionist, lie helped to organize the Greenback
party in the Tentii District of Illinois, at Elmwood,
was nominated for County Clerk and ran ahead of
his ticket. He was Postm.aster in Princeville. dur-
ing Cleveland's administration. To him and his
good wife four children have been l)orn, two of
whom, Stella I), and Emory E., are still at home.
Edwin J., tiie lirst-born married Miss Lillian Wear
an<l assists his father in his journalistic work; Dial
II.. the second-born, m.arried F. K. Pennington, a
civil engineer, whose home is in Westfield. Ind.
On the 31st of .Inly, 1890. .1. S. Barnum. the sub-
ject of this sketch was nominated by the joint
Union Labor Convention of the Tenth Illincis
Congressional District, as their candidate for Con-
gress.

SAAC FISHER has been carryingon his calling
as a practical farmer in Roselicld Township for
several 3'ears, and is cl.assed among the sub
stantial agriculturists of this section of the county.
He comes of stalwart Revolutionary ancestr}' and
of an old pioneer family of Ohio. He was born in
that State in the township of Berkshire, in the
county of Delaware, January 17, 1824.

The parents of our subject were George and
Pli(i'i)e (ilopkins) Fisher, natives, respectively, of
Washington and Luzerne Counties. His paternal
grandparents were Jacob and Eva (Elie) Fisher,
who came from their native German}^ after their
marriage and settled in this country in Colonial
days, and he bore an honorable part in the War for
Inilependencc. In 1797 he and his wife removed
to the wilds of Ohio, and were among its early pio-
neera, and there he died at the age of eighty- two.
His wife preceded him in death twenty j-ears. The
father of our subject was theii only child, and he

was eighteen j-ears of age when his parents left
Pennsylvania to take up their abode in the pri-
meval forests of Ohio, and there ho spent his remain-
ing (hi3's, dying at the age of eighty-four. His
wife, who was ten years younger than himself, died
at the .age of seventy-one j'ears. She was a daugh-
ter of Timoth)' Hopkins, who removed from Penn-
sylvania to Ohio about 1798. and was one of the
earl)' settlers in that part of iho cimntry in its terri-
torial days. The remainder of his life was passed
there amid its pioneer scenes. He served in the
Continental army during the Revolution.

The parents of our subject had twelve children,
namel)': Polh' (Mrs. Utley), deceased; Jacob, of
Delaware County, Ohio; .lohn. who died, leaving
one daughter; Henr\-; (ieorgc, who died, leaving a
son and daughter; Sallie (Mrs. Beechcr), of this
county; Eliza (Mrs. Roseerans), of this county;
Phcebe (Mrs. Humes), of Ft. Inde[)cndencc, Kan.;
Betsey (Mrs. Carter), of Delaware County, Ohio;
Lydia, deceased; Alonzo, a resident of Ohio. All
married and reared families except one. The fa-
ther of our subject served gallantly in the War of
1812. He purchased his first farm of one hundred
anil ten acres with hand-made linen, giving a yard
of linen for each acre of land. He was ver)' mrch
prospered in his calling, and w.as enabled to give
each of his children a good start in life by present-
ing them with a farm.

Our subject was reared to the life of a farmer,
and although his school privileges were limited he
gained suflicient education to enable him to teach
successfully, and he was thus engaged a few terms.
He started out in life on his own account at the age
of eighteen, and at the age of twent}' obtained a po-
sition as guard at an asj-lum for the insane and was
thus employed for three years. He had a natural
taste for agricultural pursuits, and invested some of
his money in land, purchasing his first fifty acres
In Ohio, his native State. He did well there and be-
came somewhat prominent in the public life of the
l)lace where he lived, and for four years served as
Justice of the Peace. He thought that he could
improve his financial condition b}' farming on the
rich soil of the Prairie State, and in the spring of
1869 he came hither and located on the place where
he now resides. He first rented the eight)- acres of

282

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

land that composed it, and in 1874 purchased that
tract and has constantly been engaged in its im-
provement, until now he has one of the best tilled
and most productive farms in the neighborhood,
wliieh he is conducting after the most improved
methods.

March 14, 1850. Mr. Fisher secured by his mar-
riage to Amanda Malvina McNair, a useful and
active helpmate. She was born in Yates County',
N". Y.. January 1, 1826, a daughter of James and
Dianna (Westbrook) McNair. who were natives,
respectively, of Rhode Island and Pennsylvania.
The}' were earlj' pioneers of Ohio, and he died in
Delaware County at the .age fifty, while her death
occurred in Wyandot County at the age of sev-
entj'-three. She had been three times married.
IMr. McNair was a son of Robert McNair, whose
father came from Scotland. Robert McNair was a
shoemaker by occupation. His wife was Sarah
I'cckam, and they reared eight children — nve sons
and three daughters. Mrs. McNair was a daughter
of James and Sarah (Lewis) Westbrook, natives of
Pennsylvania, where the}- were engaged in farming.
They had twelve children and reared eight — three
sons and five daughters. Mr. Westbrook came to
this countrj- from Holland, served in the Revolu-
tion, was a pioneer of Ohio, and died in Knox
Count}-, tiiat State.

Mrs. Fisher is one of twelve children, of whom
ten grew to maturity: Rebecca (Mrs. Evans) of
Ohio; Abraham died in California, leaving a fam-
ily in Iowa; Daniel, a resident of Iowa; Phebe
(Mrs. Frost), who died in Ogle County, 111.; Ma-
tilda and Diana, who died young; Amanda M. ;
lluldah (Mrs. Secoy), of Ohio, deceased; James,
wiio died in Ohio; Nancy and Elizabeth J., who
died in childhood, and Wheeler W., of Van Wert,
Ohio. Mr. and ]\Irs. Fisher are enjoying the de-
clining years of a busy life in the comforts of a
cozy home. Of their four children born to them
two are still living — Henry W. and Phebe A.

Mr. Fisher possesses those solid virtues that mark
a man of real worth, and he is justly considered
one of our most reliable citizens. His sound
common sense, shrewdness and discretion have
been made available in the management of public
affairs, and he has held important local offices. He

is now serving hi* third term as Justice of the
Peace, and for ten years was Road Commissioner.
In politics he is a sound Democrat, and has been
true to party principles since he cast his first vote
foi' President in 1840, in support of Gen. Cass.

ENJAMIN FRANKLIN SLANE, a repre-
sentative of the early settlers of Peoria
Connty, is classed among the most prosper-
ous members of its farming community.
As a pioneer of Princevillc Township,he has wielded
a potent influence in bringing about its present
standing as a well improved and wealthy farming
region. He has accumulated a handsome property
and contemplates retiring from the active life ne-
cessitated by the proper care of his extensive inter-
ests.

Our subject comes of an old Virginia family, and
was born in Hampshire County, W. Va., April 29,
1825. Benjamin Slane. his father, was born in
Frederick County, Va., in Winchester, and his fa-
ther, of the same name, was also a Virginian by
birth, and was the youngest of a large family. His
fatiier was from Ireland and died shortly before, or
about the time the family came to this country.
The grandfather of our subject followed farming,
until his death in Hampshire County, W. Va. He
was a member of the Episcopalian Church and was
strong in the faith.

The father of our subject was reared in his na-
tive county. His mother died when he was an in-
fant and he was the only child of that marriage.
He learned the trade of a tanner and currier and
later opened an establishment of his own on Cold
Stream. He failed in that venture and in 1830,
started westward. He stopped one year in Som-
merset, Perry County, Ohio, Gen. Sheridan's old
home, and was there engaged in the tannery busi-
ness. The following year he came to Peoria County,
arriving here November 7. He found but three or
four white families in Peoria, though the Indians
were more numerous, and the city was then forti-
fied and known as F't. Clark. Mr. Slane remained
tiiere until 1 833, employed in various [mrsuits and

I'OKTHAIT AND IIKH ; RA 1>M ICAL ALIJUM.

283

ILou went to Ricliwooils Towiishii>, and pre-empted
Land and entered upon its im|)roveraent. Two
3-ears later he sold his claim to S. Kryc and removed
to what is now Roselield Townshii), on the Kicka-
poo, where lie boujiht Government land, paying
fifty per eenl interest on money he borrowed to buy
his place. lie remained on it until 1840, and there
had the misfortune to lose his faithful wife, who
had shared with him in the trials and hardships of
their [tioneer life, her death oecurring in 183i». His
next location was in I'rinceville.and here he farmed
some and en£i;aged in various other pursuits. He
boiiuht one hundred and sixty acres of land where
the Sante Fe Station now is, and the title to the
properly is stdl in the family. Mei'e the remainder
of his life was passed and he developed and im-
proved his farm into one of the choice estates of
the vicinity, and there his death occurred in 1875,
at the ripe old age of seventy-seven years. In
politics he was a sturdy supporter of the Demo-
cratic party. The maiden name of his wife was
Delilah Cheshire, and she was born in Hampshire
County, \X. Ya. Her grandfather, John Cheshire,
a farmer, and a native of New Jersey, spent
his last years in Hampshire County. .She was a
true and consistent member of the Methodist Epis-
copal Churcli. She was the youngest of her family
and succumbed to the jirivations of pioneer life in
18.'}!), at the age of thirty-nine j'ears. She was the
mt,ther of seven children as follows: Benjamin
F., John /. and Klizabeth A., living in Priuceville
Townshii); Delilah J., wife of N. E. Root, Mission
('reek, Pawnee County, Neb.; Samuel S. and J. T.
of I'rinceville Township. John took part in the
late Civil War as a member of the Eighty-sixth
Illinois Infantry, Company K, enlisting in IS62,and
serving until the close of hostilities.

Our subject passed the (irst liveyears of his life
in Virginia, and then went to Ohio in 1830, with
his i)arents, the journey being made b}' team and
wagons. A year later the family again started on a
westward journey, going by team to the Muskingum
Hiver, then by keel boat to Marietta, Ohio, from
there by steamboat to Louisville, then carrying
their goods around the falls and re-embarking on
the boat for St. Louis and from there coming in a
stern wheeler to Peoria, taking a week to [)crform

this latter stage of the journey. Seme Indians
were among the passengers up the river and they
still made their home in this co.unty when our sul)-
ject's father first settled here. He was given the
best educational advantages that I'eoria County
afforded in those days, the only college being a log
schoolliouse in which the schools were conducted
on the subscrii)lion plan. He was early made to
assist in the farm labors and when seventeen years
of age went out to work breaking prairie, chopping
wood, and tilling the soil. His father was a famous
hunter and our subject also enjoyed that pastime,
as wild game w-as very plentiful here in earlj' days,
and he has seen as many as fifty and one hundred
deer in a drove. Hard labor was the order of the
day and the pioneers often suffered priratious and
led lives of self sacrifice. Our sul)ject worked for
his father principally until he was twenty -six j'ears
old, as the older boys helped their father on ac-
count of his inability, being a sufferer from rheu-
matism. In 1840, he came to this township, and
he and his brother, John, engaged in making lime,
in the spring of 1815, our subject went into the busi ■
ness more extensivel}' and had two kilns for burn-
ing lime and operated them i)rofitably for five j'ears
and he opened a stone quarry, and made a success
of that also. He furnished lime to aji extent of
forty miles in the north, west .anil east of them, and
lived most of the lime in Akron Township, until
his marriage.

This important event in the life of our subject
occurred in Princeville Township, January 6, 1852,
when he was united to Miss Sarah Henry. She was
born in Crawford County, Pa., a daughter of Col.
James and F'annie Henry, the former a native of
Fayette Countj-, Pa., and the latter of Irish birth.
Her father was a farmer in Crawford County, and
took part in the War of 1812, and later was Colonel
of a Pennsylvania State Militia regiment. He was
otherwise |)rominent in public life and for three
terms represented his district in the State Legisla-
ture. In 1850, he came here with his family, and
as he was a man of some means, lived retired until
the time of his death at the ripe old age of eighty-
four years, spending his last years with Mrs. Slanc's
mother and dying ii^ 18fi7.

Six children have been born to Mr. and Mrs.

284

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL''ALBUM.

Slane: Odillon B. livinof on the home farm, was
educated at the Peoria Normal and has been en-
gaged princialij- iu teaching; Ida. living at home
attended the Valparaiso Normal iu Indiana; Oliver
C. who is in the hardware business in Peoria, is a
graduate of Bail\''s Commercial College at Keokuit,
Iowa; Kdgi'.r P., a farmer in Monica, attended tlie
Valparaiso Normal; ElgieM., an artist and a gradu-
ate of tlie art department of the Valparaiso Nor-
mal, is the wife of F. C. Ralston, Cashier of the
Meridan Silver Plating Co., of Chicago, and Jlina.
a school teacher living at home.

Our subject and liis brother bought one hundred
and sixty acres of land in Princeville Township,
located on it, erecting suitable buildings, lived to-
gether and farmed in partnership. AVhile his
brother was in the army, our subject managed the
farm alone. In those tiroes the farmers of Illinois
made money fast, as their grain commauded high
prices and Mr. .Slane sold wheat at $'d per bushel
and corn at ¥1 per bushel. - In 1869, the brothers
dissolved partnorshi]), our subject selling his share
of the farm to liis brotiier, and he then bought one
hundred and flft}^ acres of land on section 7, Akron
Townsliip. lie farmed it tliree years. Tlie Rock
Island Railroad Companj' put a part of their road
through his farm and lie and some of his neighbors
sued the companj' for the value of their land and
he succeeded in getting ^600, and after that he
would not staj' on the place. Selling that place in
1871, he came to Princeville Township, and in
1872 bought his present farm of Lhree hundred and
twenty acres on sections .35 and 36, for $15,000. It
was partly improved and he located on section 35,
aud commenco<l the work of its further develop-
ment and now has one of the choicest and best im-
proved farms in this part of the count}-. He has
been extensively engaged in farming and stock-
raising and has acquired wealth. In 1890, he sold
his property- to his brother and retired from farm-
ing, and will probabi}' move to W\-omingand make
his home there in the future. He owns one hun-
dred acres of fine farming land near Monica, which
is under cultivation and is well improved.

Mr. Slane is pre-eminently a self-made man, well
endowed with those elements of character that make
life a success, and one needs but to peruse these

pages devoted to his life record to see that he has
put liis f.aculties to good use and is to-day a man of
affluence. These many j-ears that he has been a
resident of this county have gained him man}' warm
friends, and his pleasant face and genial manners
make him well liked b}' all. He has given his ser-
vices to the township in various official capacities
and has worked zealously to promote any scheme
that would iu any way enhance the interests of this
locality. During the war he was Collector for two
j-ears, and for nianj' years he has been a member of
the School Board. He was Supervisor bj' appoint-
ment twice, but did not accept the position. He is a
member of the Detective Thief Association. He is
prominent in politics, is an ardent Democrat, is
one of the leading members of the Central Com-
mittee, and has been delegate to county conven-
tions. Five or six times he has been called on to
serve on tiie Grand Jury.

AMES T. JOHNSON. In tlie thriving city
of Peoria there m.ay be found a numlter of
men in whom the inventive genius is strong
and to whom the patent office reports are
the most interesting of all literature. One f)f the
foremost of these is James T. Johnson, inventor and
patentee of the Acme Coal & Stone Drill, and of
the Lightning Coal & Stone Drill, which is guaran-
teed to drill two feet per minute in clean coal with
two-man i)Ower. He first patented the Acme Drill,
had it manufactured for him and conducted its sale
throughout the United States about two years, after
which he began the manufacture himself. This was
in 1887, since which time he has built shops, 32x70
feet, with steam power, at No. 111-113 Garden
Street, where he carries on the manufacture of his
inventions. He improved the first patent, and sub-
sequently he and Isaac AVantling invented the
Lightning Drill which is also having an extensive
sale throughout the country from Pennsjivania to
Wyoming and Montana, thousands of them being
in operation. Thej^ have also invented a coal cut-
ting, a coal mining and coal drilling machine all
combined and run by either hand or electricity.

c^m/m

PORTRAIT AND lilOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

287

Mr. Johnson was born in Yorkshire, England,
near Ritbuiond lliil, September 2, 1846. He re-
moved to County Durham and there grew to man-
hood. He became interested in mining and learned
all the practical details of the business in which lie
finally became a contractor, drivingstone levels and
having many of the largest contracts in tlie county.
In 1870, he emigrated to Araciica, continuing his
work in Pennsylvania and later in Ohio. He finall}'
removed to What Cheer, Iowa, and while there in-
vented his first drill. His thorough knowledge of
what was needed in the mines was of great advan-
tage and turned his mechanical ingenuity into an
excellent channel. About 1885 he removed to
Peoria to give his whole attention to the sale and
manufacture of his Inventions, this seeming to him
a good center for his operations.

The marriage of Mr. Johnson was celebrated in
County Durham, England, of which his wife,
lormerl}- Miss Elizabeth Thompson, is a native.
Priftr to their removal to America, eight children
had been born to Mr. and Mrs. .lohnsou,five of
whom still live. Eour children have been born in
lliis country, three of these surviving. The living
sons and daughters who now make up the household
band are William, .lames, Harriet, Maggie, Eliza
belli, Fred, .Iosei)h and Katie, not one of whom has
yet left the parental roof-tree. Mr. and IMrs.
.Idhuson are intelligent, kindly and social, and have
iliawn around them a pleasant circle of accpiaint-
nnces. Mr. Johnson is known as a man of honor in
business relations, and a law-abiding citizen who
steadfastly pursues an upright course in life.

'REDERICK D. WEIENNETT. When the

wires flashed around the world the news
of the terrible dis.aster at Chatsworth,
millions of hearts thrilled with sympathy for
the unfortunate victims and their friends. Yet
horrified ami grieved as the world was, none but
those who have suffered in alike manner can realize
the thickness of the pall that settled over mourning
homes whence loved ones had gone forth in all
their manly strength or womanly- beauty, to be

borne back in a few hours befcft of life or bearing
pain and sorrow. Among the stricken households
was that of Frederick D. Weiennett, who was in-
stantly killed in the wreck, while his daughter
Pearl i-eceived injuries whose marks she will carry
to her grave.

Benedict and Mary Weiennett, the parents of
our subject, were natives, respectively, of Switzer-
land and Bavaria. Thej' were living in Saline,
Mich., when their son was born, his natal day hav-
ing been May 10, 1837. The lad was reared in his
native State, where he obtained an excellent edu-
cation and won success as a school teacher. He
alternated pedagogical labors with attendance at
the Normal School at Ypsilanti, his reputation
as an earnest student and an apt instructor being
equally good. Lameness caused bj' illness unfitted
him for severe physical exertion, and he therefore
sought light employment in which brains would
take the place of brawn.

Immediately after the war Mr. Weiennett came
to Peoria, becoming book-keeper for Louis Creen,
wholesale liquor dealer, liy whom he was taken into
partnership in 1870. He subsequently engaged in
the wholesale grocery business, in which he was
occupied wlien elected County Treasurer in 188.3.
He had previously served three different times as
City Treasurer and at the same time had held the
position of Treasurer of the School IJoard. In 1887
he became Secretary of the Germania Fire Insur-
ance Company, in which capacity he continued
until his career was cut short by an untimely
death on the 10th of August, 1887. The fact
that Mr. Weiennett was strictly honest and up-
right is evinced by his election to a treasurership
so frequently. He was a memlier of the Demo-
cratic party, but his friends were not confined to
that political bod}'. On the contrary he was highly
respected b}' all to whom he was personally known
or who were acquainted with his business rcputa-
tation. He was a member of the Masonic fratern-
ity and Turner society, taking great interest in
those orders.

The widow of Mr. Weiennett bore the maiden
name of Carrie E. Best. Her parents, George C.
and Gertrude (Schneider) Best, removed from De-
troit, Mich., to Peoria in 18.'3.5, and here the daugh-

288

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

ter's marriag:e was celebrated. May 10, 1870. Mr.
Best, who had been a blacksmith prior to becoming
a citizen of Peoria, breathed his last July 17, 1882.
His widow survived until December 10, 1884. To
Mr. and Mrs. AV^eiennett seven children were born,
three of whom are n':>w living. These are Pearl,
Frederick and Carrie, in whose devotion the wid-
owed mother finds solace for her ever-present, sor-
row for a faithful and loving companion. Her
sterling qualities of mind and heart bring her earn-
est friendships.

A portrait of the late Mr. Weiennelt appea''S in
connection with this sketch and will be welcomed
by the many friends from among whom he h.as gone.

^^Ni?BNER II. SMITH, who has practically re-

tired from active life, .ind is living in
comfort in his cozy home in Elm wood City,
was among the earliest pioneers of this county,
and for many years sturdily co-operated with his
fellow farmers and stock-raisers in develoi)ing the
rich agricultural resources of this region. He is a
survivor of the earliest pioneers of this county, and
to him and his good wife belongs the honor of
having been the first couple united in marriage in
Klmwood Township, the ceremony that made them
one being performed by Esq. James P. Harkins,
and their happy wedded life of many years is a
worthy example for the young people of to-day
who are starting out on the same jouruc3'.

Mr. .Smith was born October 22, 1811, in Tioga
County, Pa. His father, lehabod Smith, was born
in Massachusetts July 19, 1782, while his mother,
whose maiden name was Anna Harkness, was a na-
tive of New York, and was born May 22, 1790.
She came of good Revolutionary stock, her father,
James Harkness. having been a Revolutionarj^ sol-
dier, and after the close of the war a pensioner.
His son James was a soldier in the War of 1812.
The parents of our subject were married in Penn-
sylvania, and removed from there to Ohio with
their family, July 3, 1817, and settled in Richland
County among the few whites who h'ld preceded
them and the aboriginal owners of the soil, and

thus became early pioneers of that part of Ohio.
Mr. Smith cut down the trees, and in the space
thus cleared built a log cabin in the primeval for-
ests. After six years he removed with his wife
and children to Crawford County, where he again
cleared land and built another log dwelling, in
which the family made their home until 1837. In
that year they came to Elmwood Township, to
begin anew the pioneer task of building up a home,
and settled on the farm now owned by Oliver
(irahara. Here the faithful wife and mother suc-
cumbed to the trials and jirivations incidental to the
life of the early settlers in this part of the country,
and in December, 1837, passed to eternal rest. Of
the twelve children she bore her husband, the
following are now living: Our subject, Edson
v.. Mrs. J. Gibbs, David Milo, James M., Mrs.
John W. Couklin and Mrs. J. Nickerson. Their
father departed this life November 3, 1856, leaving
an honorable record as a useful pioneer citizen, and
as a man of good ch.aracter and unswerving in
tegrity. After the death of the mother of our sub-
ject he h.ad married again, in 1840. taking as his
wife Mrs. Almira Aldrich, who died in 1888. Of
that marriage there were three children.

Abner Smith, of this sketch, received but limited
educational advantages in the primitive log school-
house, which he attended in Crawford County.
He was early initiated into the labors of farming,
and became of great assistance to his father, help-
ing him to clear three different farms, remaining
with him until twent}' years of .age. He then
started out with empty hands, but with a courage-
ous heart to make his own way in the world. He
too became a pioneer, and coming to Peoria
County, arriving here J.anuary 21, 1832, he lo-
cated on the old Orton farm in Trivoli Township.

Mr. Smith found the country round about here
in a very wild and unsettled condition, and the
land being still in the hands of the Government,
was not then in the market. He built a log cabin
and broke and fenced ten .acres of the land upon
which he had settled, and carried on its cultivation
some two or three 3-ears. In the meantime, in
1834, he revisited his parents and friends in his
old home in Crawford County, Ohio, making the
entire journey there and back to this county on

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

289

foot. He held his Trivoli farm until the fall of
1x35, then sold it to Harkness ifc Buell, and from
llicrc came to Elmwood Township, and located on
the section on which Elmwood City now stands.
This was tlien an isolated spot, with not a house in
sight, excepting the hewn log house with its nine
window liglits tliat stood on his purchase. His
homestead, which comprised one luMuh-ed and
twenty acres, was parti}' improved, and when the
land came into the market he entered it at the
land-oflice, and in the busy jears of toil and h:ird
ship that followed, lie wa.s constant]}- eng.iged in
its further improvement, and in time had devel-
oped a good farm, supplied with neat buildings
and every appurtenance for engaging in agricul-
ture. In 1832, before coming to IClmwood Tovvn-
ship. the Black Hawk War had broken out, and he
was one of the volunteers to aid in its suppression,
lie went to Galena. 111., and there enrolled his
naine among the other brave and daring settlers
uiu) were going to face the dangers and ambus-
cades of Indian warfare that their homes might be
s:ifc in the future from the depredations of the
die.ided foe. His warlike intentions were, however,
speedily squelched, as he was taken sick with the
measles and was obliged to let his company go on
wiLJioiil him, while he returned home.

L'ke all pioneers, Mr. Smith and his wife had to
suffer man}' trials, and to make many sacrifices
while living on the borders so far from the centers
of civilization. Times were very hard in the early
chiys. and often times corn bread, which formed
thcii- staple article of diet, was the only food they
had to eat. Mr. Smith used to have to go twenty-
live miles over rough roads to mill in Ellisville.
(iaiue, upon which the early settlers depended so
much, was very scarce, as the severe cold of the
season of 1830, known as the "winter of the dee|)
snow," had killed the wild animals in large num-
bers.

March 10, 1835, was an event of great impor-
tance in the life of our subject, as on that date he
was united in marriage to Miss Eliza A. Doyle, a
daughter of Isaac and Mary Doyle, natives res-
pectively of North Carolina and Virginia. Her
parents came to Illinois in 1830, and after stayino-
one season in Warren County, removed to this

county and settled at or near Harkness Grove, in
this township, being the second family to settle
in this region, and 3Ir. Doyle w.is the first .Justice
of the Peace. Canton was the nearest town, about
seventeen miles away, and its only store was the
place where they secured their supplies. He owned
a large amount of land, and was a prominent man
in this part of the county. His wife died many
years ago, and he married Jane Lamaster, and she
survives him. His death in 1879, removed one
of our most honored pioneers. Three of the nine
children born of bis marriage with Mrs. Smith's
mother are now living, namely: Mrs. Smith, Mrs.
Nancy Scott and Mrs. Irene Scott.

Mr. and Mrs. Smith are the parents of seven
children, as follows: Mary Ann and Henry C,
deceased; Harriet, wife of Frank Trumley, of this
township; George S., a resident of Minnesota;
Edwin A., of Minnesota, who -married Mercy Cav-
erly, and has six children; William J., a resident
of Elmwood, who has been twice married, the mai-
den name of his present wife being Margaretta Mc-
Coy; Alice, wife of Justin Gordon, of Galesburg,
and the mother of two children ; George has been
tivice married, and by his first marriage had two
children.

March 10, 1885, was an eventful day in the life
of our subject and his wife, as it marked to them
the golden milestone of half a century of wedded
life, and their golden wedding was celebrated
with thankfulness and rejoicing by their children,
grandchildren and the many friends that they had
gathered around them during the many years
they have lived in this county. The following
beautiful lines are the opening ones of a poem
written by Clara, the wife of their eldest son, as
a loving souvenir of the occasion:

'•Through fifty years we have walked together
Through the sunshine of life, and its stormy
weather.

And to-day to the Golden Gate have come,
That marks the half-century of our home."

Mr. Smith possesses in a rare degree those ster-
ling qualities that mark him as a man of single
heart and pure purpose, and the uprightness of
his character and his simple, unassuming kindness
have won him both the respect and the affection

290

I'ORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

of bis fellow-citizens, wliich his wife also sliares.
They are members of the ^Methodist Episcopal
Church, of which he was formerly Stewavrt, and
for many years have been identifiert with its every
good work. ]u early life Mr. Smith was a sup-
porter of the Whig part}-, but on the formation of
the Republican party, transferred his allegiance to
it. and has ever since remained a steadfast up-
holder of its principles.

HARLES JI. SLAYTON is a fine type of
our self-made, self-educated mcn.oue whose
■iJJ indomitable, ambitious spirit has conquered
ever}' obstacle tliat lay in the path of his siiecess,
and to-day he occupies au honorable position in
the farming community of this count}-, and is con-
sidered one of our best citizens. His farm, lying
on section 6, Elm wood Township, a part of it within
the corporate limits of Elmwood City, is provided
with ii neat, substantial class of buildings and
ani[)le farming machinery, and its soil is admirably
tilled, .and yields to his careful cultivation ricl;
harvests, besides supporting a fine herd of stock.

Mr. Sl.ayton is a native of Chautauqua County Is .
Y., born May 15, 1843, to Hosea B. and Euniie
(Chandler) Slayton, who were originally from Ver-
mont, the fSlaytons being an old New England fam-
ily, and on the mother's side also he is of honorable
descent, as she numbered among her ancestors the
renowned Ethan Allen, the hero of Ticonderoga.
The mother of our suliject died in 1.S51, leaving
behind her a memory that is still cherished in the
hearts of her children of a good and true woman.
Of the six children born of her marriage, three are
now living — our subject; Almeda. wife of t)rangc
Daniels of Elmwood, and Deliska A., wife of C. II.
Kightlingerof Elmwood. Addison F. died in 1889;
Lucy died at the .age of three years; Edwin died in
infancy.

The father of our subject was married a second
time, and his widow survives him.making her home
in Elmwood. Their union was blessed to them by

the birth of two children: Eunice E., wife of Samuel
Alwelt of Elmwood, and Alton B.. who married
Susie Wooten; they also live in Elmwood. Mr.
Slayton brought his family to Knox County, in
1853. and settled among the pioneers of Elba Town-
shi[), Knox County. He lived there until 1857, and
then became a pioneer of Elmwood, and here re-
sided until his mortal career w.as closed by death
in 1887.

The subject of this biographical sketch was the
youngest member of the family, and as he was a
mere boj- of eight years when his parents Ijrought-
him to this State, he was reared here under pioneer
influences, and early Ijccame a manly, self-reliant,
capable lad, who began life for himself at the age
of fifteen years. In 1858, he went out to work on
a farm by the month at *il2.50 a month, and was
thus employed the most of the time until 18G2,but
for two years traveled with a circus over Illinois.
Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, and Upper Can.ida, ped-
dling lemonade and otherwise engaged, as he was
determined by any honorable means to earn money
to obtain a sound education. His first schooling
had been in his native State, and in 1862 he studied
in the district school near his home in Ellmwood
Townshiii, and then entered Elmwood Academy,
and there pursued a preparatory college course,
studying Latin, geometry, algebra and kindred
branches, defraying all his expenses himself. His
diligence and close .attention to his books, soon
brought their due reward in the shape of a teacher's
certificate, showing him to be amply qualified to
enter the profession, and he left school for a time
In order to take charge of a school during the win-
ter session, and then went back to the academy. and
the following winter and summer .again took up
teaching. The first terra he taught lie received
the princely salary of %\Q a month, the next year
!ji50, and the third year t^GO a month, and
after that he declined to teach. In the summer
vacation of 18G2. he kept an ice cream parlor at
Elmwood, and can led it on profitably. He returned
to the academy in the spring term, and at the close
of the season ofiened a bakery and restaurant with
C. H. Kightlinger, his brother-in-law. .and for three
years they were engaged in that business together,
and then our subject bought out his i)artner, and

ruUTRAIT AND lilOCiUAl'llK AL ALUUM.

291

(.•oiitimied it for two years nioro. when lie sold it at
!i good piico.

Mr. Slay tou next gave liis !itteiitii)n to fariiiin<4,
spending a year in Kansas on a farm of one b\nidred
and sixty acres that lie bouglit in Franklin County.
After his return to this Slate, lie ha\ing sold his
Kansas property, he bought his present place in
KS72, which then comprised but eighty acres, hut
since then lie has added another eighty ,an(l twenty
live .acres of his farm is within the city limits. lie
has been constantlj- improving it ever since, and
has placed the lauil under excellent tilliige. He has
addeil to his residence, and has a commodious,
comfortably furnished dwelling, the centre of a
eharining hospitality, wherein host and liostess vie
with each other in making their guests feel at ease
and at home. In 1885, JMr. Sl.ayton erected a good
barn at a cost of si, 000 and also put up other
convenient outbuildings; he raises both grain and
stock, and has been fortunate in his work, as we
have seen, acquiring a desirable pro|)erty.

Mr. Slayton was married in 18G8, to Miss Mattie
Harper, and her untimely death in 1883, while 3et
in the prime of a gracious and kindly womanhood,
deprived him of a good wife and their offspring of
a tender mother. The following are the names of
the four children of that marriage: Edward V.
(deceased),James A,, Fred H.,and Nellie M. Fd ward
was a bright and promising youth, was a graduate
of the Elmwood High School, and was in the Fresh-
man year at Knox College, when death cut short
his life. James is a well-cducatetl young man, a
graduate of the Elmwood High School, and he also
took a course of study in the Business College in
I'eoria. Fred is a stuilent at the High School, and
Nellie is in the Intermediate Department.

Mr. Slayton was married to his present estimable
wife in 1884, and iu her has found a congenial
companion and a wise counselor, and his children
have in her a <levoted stepmother. She is a woman
of culture and Uigh Christian character, and a con-
sistent member of the Presbyterian Church. Mrs.
Slay ton's maiden name was Flora E. Lucas, and she
is a daughter of Daniel and Elizabeth (Simerson)
Lucas, of Erimfield Township. She received ex-
cellent educational advantages, was a pupil of the
Brimfleld High School, in which she pursued a

course in some of the higher branches, and she also
took lessons in instrumental music. Her marri.age
with our subject has brought them one child, Stella
M.ay, who is five years old.

Ill his career Mr. Slayton has not stayed to ques-
tion "Is life worth living.^" but has worked quietly
and |)ersistently to make it so, and has grandly
risen above circumstances. His vigorous, cultured
mind, and clear; thoughtful views on all subjects
of general interest make his original opinions of
worth, and his advice of value. The political issues
of the day have an interest for him, and us he is
alw.ays read}' to champion any reform that he can
in anywise forward, we naturally' find him afliliating
with the Prohibitionist partj', and giving it his
hearty support whenever occasion offers. He is
not connected with any church .as a member, but is
an attendant at the Methodist. His part in assist-
ing iu the public work of the township is as Over-
seerof Highways, and it is the general opinion that
no better man could have been selected for the
office. Our subject was formerly a member of the
Masonic order.

f/OHN .1. HARDING is an old settler of Peo-
ria County, and one of the leading farmers
of Rosetielil Tovvnsliip. The line est.ate
upon which he lives comprises one hundred
and fifty acres of well-tilled land, supplied with all
that goes to make up a well-regulated, comfortable
farm home, and under the efficient management of
one who has long devoted his energies to the cul-
tivation of the soil, produces abundantly of va-
rious grains and fruits.

Jlr. Ilariling is a native of Bratten Fleming,
Devonshire, England, born June 3, 1819, to John
and Mary (Gill) Harding, who were natives of the
same parish and there entered into rest. Their
family consisted of ten sons and daughters, the
record of those younger than our subject being as
follows: Ann died at Geneva, N. Y.. while on her
way from England to I'eoria, III.; William came
to this State in 1848, but is now living in Saline
County, Neb.; James and Henry, twins, emigrated

292

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

to Canada, wlicnce the former finally- returned to
his own land; Charles belonged to the English
arinj-, went to India during the rebellion there
and has not since been heard from ; Thomas came
to Canada, tlience to Woodford Count}', 111., and
was killed in a coal mine, leaving a widow, a son
and a daughter; Elizabeth married A. Kin}on,and
died in Woodford Count}-, leaving a son Fred:
Jane is now Mrs. Jones, of England; Samuel, now
living in Nebraska, entered the Union Army from
Illinois, serving under Gen. Steele in Arkansas.
The father of this familj' was a gardener. He
died at the age of seveutj--five years, his widow
surviving him until eightj--uine years and six
months old.

(Air subject received a common-school educa-
tion in his native land, whence he came to the
United States in 1845, leaving England April o,
and reacliing Peoria June 24. In the mother
country he had been engaged in farming, but after
his removal he secured a clerkship, continuing that
occupation for several years in the county so.it.
In 1861 he purchased eighty acres of land in Lo-
gan Townsliip. later adding another eightj' over
the line in Roselield Township. About 187;> he
bought that upon which he now lives, on sections
30 .and 31, and deeded the other farms to his sons.

The career of ^Ir. Harding has been such as to
win honor and respect from all who know him, on
account of his moral worth, industry and good
judgement. He had -$50 when he entered Peoria,
and from that small capital, secured bj' his own
exertions elsewhere, has grown his present solid
financial standing. He is a member of the Bap-
tist Church, to which his estimable wife also be-
longs.

The first marriage of our subject took place in
England, March 29, 1845, his bride being Mary,
daughter of David and Sarah Tucker. .She was
born in Swinebridge. Devonshire, and died in Peo-
ria, 111., in September, 1847. The present wife of
Mr. Harding is likewise a native of the mother
countrj'. born in Egerton, Lancashire, and daugh-
ter of James and Jane (Pilkington) Greenough.
Mr. Greenough was a superintendent of cotton
manufactures. In 1842 he came to America, set-
tling in Brimfield. this county, but dying in Stark

County. His wife had breathed her last in Eng-
land. Their family included Robert, who was
drowned in the Baltic Sea; William, who was
killed by a boiler explosion in Stark County;
James, wlio died in \7ilson, Kan.; Hugh, now
living in that State; Mrs. Ann Wrigle}-. of Peoria;
Jane, the wife of our subject; Mrs. Alice IMorris,
of Sterling, Kan.; Roger, now living in Colorado,
who was a Union soldier and wounded at Vicks-
burg; Margaret, who died in early yontii.

Our subject, b}' his first marriage had one child,
wlio died wlien five years old. The second has re
suited in the birth of the following children : John
J., Henry W., Robert G., Eleazer', William W. and
Adoniram J. Robert G. lives in Trivoli Townshi|);
William in Brimfield Township; and Eleazer is an
attornej' 'u Elmwood.

^^ — ^^I' n? — ^ ■ . -^ — ,

jjEV. THOMAS PACEY. This name will be
^ readil}- recognized by man\- of our readers
]^ as that of a prominent resident of Jubilee
Township, who, occupying a pleasant farm,
carries on general agricultural work and likewise
finds time to prepare himself for the work which
he pursues on the Lord's Daj- — that of preaching
the Gospel as a local Elder in the Methodist Epis-
cop.al Church. Of English birth and ancestry, he
possesses the stern integrity and indomitable spirit
which had been exemplified so often by Englishmen
whose names have become famous the world over,
and by means of well-directed studies the )jowers
of his mind have been developed and his memory
has become a storehouse of knowledge.

The father of our subject was Brown Pace}', a
native of Lmcolnshire, England, who followed
farming there until his death. His mother was
Mary, a daughter of William Topper, a well-to-do
farmer and the owner of the land which he tilled.
The mother, a devoted member of the Methodist
Episcopal Church, lived until 1888. The parental
family consisted of -eight children who grew to
manhood and womanhood. Of these, William,
Mrs. Jlary Sharp, Elizabeth, and Eliza are living
in their native laud. John came to America

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

293

and lost his life in the Civil War; Joseph is living
in Peoria and Uicliard in La Harpe. Our subject
is the second in order of bii'th in the family and
was the first to come to America.

JjUn Pacey was livinsj in Brimlicld when the
Civil War broke out and desiring to aid in the
preservation of tlie I'niou, enlisted in 1801. He
was wounded before Richmond, taken [)risoner. and
after tlie amputation of his limb, sent to Libhy
Prison where lie tlicd nearly three years after his
enlistment. Richard was a member of the same
reirinient, was wounded in the Siienandoali N'alley
and before his recovery was sent to a hos[>ital at
Chicago, where he acted as nurse until the expira-
tion of his term of service. It had been the inten-
tion of our subject to join the same regiment, but
the daj^ after writing to his brothers of his intention
lie was taken with intermittent fever, which eon-
fined him to his room almost two mouths.

The village of Scopwick, Lincolnshire, England,
was the birthplace of Rev. Thomas Pacey, whose
early years were spent upon a farm where the school
■system did not furnish great advantages for acquir-
ing an education. He was early set to work on the
farm which he assisted in cultivating from his
twelfth year until he was fifteen, when he went out
to work by the year. He continued as a farm la-
borer until twentj'-two years old, when, ijersuaded
that he could better his condition in America, he
bade adieu to home and friends and set out for
the New World.

Leaving Liverp(n)l on a sailing vessel in the
spring of 1851, Mr. Pacey reached New Orleans
after an ocean voyage of seven weeks, whence he
came up the river and canal to Chicago. From that
place he went to Kenosha. Wis., then to Big Foot
Prairie, Walworth Count\', where he engaged on a
farm near Beloit. For three years he worked hard
on the farm, then began to supi)ly the dehciencies
in his early schooling by entering the seminary at
Wheaton, 111. After attending that institution
about two and a half years, he began teaching dis-
trict schools in DuPage and Cook Counties, making
his home in Madison Township, UuPage County.
He owned a farm of twenty-five acres there which
he sold in 1803 and going to Iowa located at Water-
loo, near which town he bought eighty acres of

raw land. After having taught school one winter
he turned his attenticjii entirely to the improve-
ment and cultivation of his property, which he sold
in December, 1800, for the |)ur|)ose of removing to
Peoria County, III., in which his brothers were
living.

Mr. Pacey taught one winter after coming to this
county, then gave his attention to farming, renting
land in Jubilee Township until 1880. At that
time he purchased fort}' acres on section 20. upon
which so little improvement had been made that it
may be said its present condition is cntlrel}- due to
his efforts. He has been obliged to remove stumps,
enclose and subdivide the land by adequate fencing,
.and supply it with the various buildings necessary
to carry on his work and make a pleasant home for
his famil}'. A fine spring furnishes water for his
herds, which include good grades of cattle and
horses. Grain and hay are the principal crops, and
a proper amount of attention is paid to the orchard
and garden, which furnish of their abundance to
supply the family needs.

The noble character and rifio intelligence of the
Rev. Mr. Pacey are recognized by his .associates who
have reposed in him various [mblic resi)Oiisibilities.
He has been a School Director and is now Town-
ship School Treasurer, an oltice which he has held
since 1878. He has served as Justice of the Peace
continuously since 187;i. He is and has long been
a member of the Township Central Committee, .and
he has frequently been a delegate to count}' con-
ventions of the Republican party, whose principles
he stanchly upholds both on election day and when
political topics are the subject of discussion.

In the Methodist Episcopal Church at Brimfield,
Mr. Pacey has been Class-Leader, Steward and
Trustee, and has likewise held the office of local
I'.lder for years. He began exhorting when alioiit
twenty-four j-ears old and entered the local minis-
tiy in Iowa in the fall of 1864. At the same time
he was ordained as a traveling minister, being on
the circuit about two years. In Black Hawk County
he hacl a charge prior to his removal to Illinois, and
he now preaches nearly every other week, although
he lias not joined the Conference here.

The marriage of Mr. Pacey and Miss Elizabeth
Haj'es was celebrated in Chicago in 1862. The bride

294

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArillCAL ALBUM.

a nntivc of Wiltsliire, EngLiiid, belongs to a family
whose history is given in liic sketeli of Charles
Ha3'es in this volume. She entered into rest Janu-
ary 13, 1888, leaving five eiiiltlren. Immortal
through her virtues, her memor)' is held in loving
reverence bj' her husband and ehildren. who are
comforted in their atiliction by the hoiie set before
ihem of meeting to part no more, when their work
on earth is done. Her place at the head of the
household is sni)plied as well as it may be, by her
daughter Nellie, the third of Ihe family. Harry
and Thomas, Jr., are also at home. Addison, the
eldest son, after having spent some time in school-
teaching, is now engaged in a pi-inling office at
linrnfu'ld. Lincoln, the second son, now in the mill
at r>i iiiifield, also labored for some lime in the field
of pedagogy.

%^^ OMER C. TUCKER may well be looked
upon as a representative citizen of Brim held
Township, in which he has si)ent the greater
part of his life and in whose prosiierity he
has assisted in various ways. He is the owner and
occupant of a beautiful farm on section 22, much
of which was secured to him by his own persever-
ing efforts and excellent management. As the sou
of pioneer settlers in the township, he began quite
early in life to assist in reclaiming from its primi-
tive wildness the tract of land on which they were
located, and to replace the long grass of the prairies
with the more useful grains.

Our subject is of English stock and a son of Ezra
and Sarah (Eurncss) Tucker, both of whom were
born in the Green INIountain State and exhibited in
their lives the thrift and energy which seem breathed
in with the air of their native hills. In 1843, the
pnrcnts determined to take up their permanent
abode in. Illinois, which the father had visited sev-
eral years before and in which he had entered four
hundred acres of Government land. Their prepa-
rations for removal being completed, the}' set out for
the West, traveling in a canal boat to Buffalo from
which place the party of ten, together with their
necessary household goods, was conveyed in a car-

riage and wagon each drawn b^- two horses. Seven
weeks and three d.ays were consumed in travel from
the. Empire State to Brimfield Township. Peoria
County, whore their future home was located. Mr.
Tucker paid the (iovernment price of $1.25 per
acre for his land, which he took possession of in
the condition in which it had been left by the
Aborigines.

In the death of Ezra Tucker, which occurred
December 31, 1854, the county lost a hard-work-
ing, reliable and public-spirited citizen, whose
example had exerted a good influence upon those
about him. He was a Democrat in politics. His
good wife survived him a few years, passing awav
in July, 18G0. Thej- were the parents of seven chil-
dren, namely: Mary, now Mrs. Ilartz of Wyom-
ing, this State; Homer C, our subject; Ezra, a
farmer of Brimfield Township; Eliza, wife of C. L.
Wing of Elm wood; Sarah, wife of J. M. l>eet of
Chicago; Saphonia, wife of Dr. Pratt of Wichita,
Kan., and Marian, wife of A. J. Klock of Wyom-
ing, this State.

The subject of this notice was born in Madison
County, N. Y., March 16, 1834, but having come to
Illinois during his boyhood, grew to manhood amid
the scenes of pioneer life in this county. He at-
tended the common schools of New York and Illi-
nois, but his advantages not being equal to those of
the present day he has depended largely upon his
own efforts in becoming well informed regarding
topics of practical and general interest. He has been ■
a life- long farmer, at present combining with that
honorable occupation that of buying and shipping
stock. For five years he shipped grain from Brim-
field, always, however, occupying and controlling
the farm. His estate consists of two hundred and
ten acres which bears every needful building and
under intelligent management yields an excellent
income.

The presiiling genius of the home of Mr. Tucker
is an intelligent Christian woman, who was form-
erly known as Miss Emily M. Ellis. She became
the wife of our subject in May, 1865, and is the
mother of four children, of whom two are settled in
homes of their own, while Allie Mabel and Duane
H. still remain with their parents. Brimfield is the
home of the two married daughters — Clemie being

^^7^-t^

^^^^,

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPIIK AL ALHUM.

297

the wife of Harry CLichester, and Carrie M. of
Lewis Dungan.

Mr. Tucker 1ms served as Townshii) Supervisor
one term and as Road Commissioner scvcntcen-
j'ears. It is his intention to assist in everytliing
wliicli he thinks will advance the material and social
interests of llie coniuiiinity or in any w.a^" add to
tlie pulilic welfare. lie Votes tlie Kepulilican ticket
on every election day. He was formerly- identified
with the Independent Order of Odd Fellows. Mrs.
Tucker is a member of the Congregational Churcli
at Briuifield. which the oilier memljcrs of the fam-
ily attend.

^i|=

c-^^HOMAS B. N0RVP:LL, M. D. The learned
professions are well rejiresented in Peoria
by men of mucli mental culture, [iractical
knowledge an(l professional skill in their various
departments. One of those wiio have a high stand-
ing, botli professioually and socially, is Dr. T. 1>.
N'orvell, whose portrait is presented on the opi)o-
site page and who is estaljlishing a fine [iractice in the
city which has been his home but a few short years.
He has not yet readied the prime of life, iiaving
been born December 2, 1851, to George W. and
Liivisey (Boyd) Norvell. His birthplace was Mon-
iteau County, Mo., where his father was engaged
ill fanning. The parental family comprised eight
cliildren, five of whom are now living and all of
the sons being professional men. .John 8. has de-
voted himself to missionary work and has been
sent liy the Baptist Churcli to China; Joseph E. is a
Methodist Episcopal minister in South Dakota; tlie
next is our subject; Mary and Martha, twins, are
living in Iowa, being the wives of Anthony Hyine
and William Williams, respectively.

Dr. Norvell was reared in Mills Count}', Iowa,
where his father removed during his infancy. After
liaving attended the public schools of the Ilawkeje
.Stale, he entered Talior College at the age of twenty
years, and not long after began reading medicine
with Dr. Merrill Otis, in Tabor. Iowa. After three
years of student life there he attended the Chicago
Medical College, and after becoming a full-fledged

physician began practicing in Fremont County,
Iowa. Thence he finally- removed to this countj^
making his headquarters for the first three years at
Ilarker's Corners and removing to the counts-seat
in 1879.

In Fremont County, Iowa, Dr. Norvell met,
wooed and won for his wife Miss Alice, daughter
of John and Sarah (Burns) Lumm, their marriage
riles lieing celebnited December 31, 1875. Mrs.
Norvell is a lady of intelligence and refinement, well
fitted to make a lia|)py home. Two children have
come to bless the happy union, and are named
Helena Dee and Justin Woodlej'.

Dr. Norvell is a man of decided views, not easily
moved from any opinion or course in which his judg-
ment has conciii red. He is an tindeviating Repub-
lican. Theoiily social order with which he is identi-
fied is the society of Druids. His profession.-d skill is
acknowledged by all who are familiar with his
work and is bringing him his fair share of the pat-
ronage of the citizens, while bidding fair to secure
to bin, both fame and fortune in the years to come.
He and his wife are considered additions to society
and have already made many friends in the city
which they have adopted as their home.

-^^

^(^^ALENTINE W^EBER. The business enter-'
^\/// prises of Princeville would be poorly repre-
^ sented indeed, were no mention made in
these pages of the life and efforts of Valentine
Weber, the oldest resident merchant in the town.
He has a fine store, well stocked with boots and
shoes, and lie is also the successful patentee of the
Perfection Grain Weigher. Always pleasant and
agreeable, he is deservedly popular in society,
while his intelligence and energy of character iiave
been utilized in the municipal and religious work
of his chosen home.

Our subject is the youngest of eight children
born to Cassamire and Christine (Kutz) Weber,
who, like tbeir son, were natives of Achern, Ger-
many. The father was reared upon a farm, and
operated an estate in his native land until 1852,
when he emigrated to America. He selected a lo-

298

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

cation in Erie County', N. Y.. near Buflfalo. and pur-
chasing a farm,coutinued his agricultural work until
liis death in 1864. His wife also died in the Em-
pire State. He was a Democrat and a Catholic.
The five children who, besides our subject, grew to
mature years are: Mrs. Emrinza Fischer, who died
in Buffalo, N. Y.; Mrs. Emily Petre and Anton,
who lives near that city: Mrs. Gertrude Bogner, of
Marshall County, 111.; and Christine, widow of
Moritz Hamberg, of Buffalo, N. Y.

The uatal day of our subject was February 14,
1847. He was about five years old when the fam-
ily left Havre on a sailing-vessel, which lauded
them in New York thirt3--six days later. The
next ten years of his life were spent on a farm near
Buffalo in a German settlement, where his studies
were conducted in his native tongue until thirteen
years old. His knowledge of English has been
mostly* acquired by his own efforts, as he had very
little English schooling. Soon after entering his
teens be found emplo3'meut in a sawmill and cheese
box factorv in Cattaraugus County for two years,
after which he began an apprenticeship at the siioe-
maker's trade in Buffalo. He served four years
under Beu Weber, then did journe}- work in the
same city until 1867.

We next find Mr. Weber coming to Peoria. 111.,
ami working at his trade six months for Henr^'
Thielbar. He then followed his trade for six
months in Washington, Tazewell County', after
which he opened a shoe shop in Princeville, doing
both repairing and manufacturing. His enterprise
proved successful, compelling him to emplo}' two
hands, and in 1871 he put in a small stock of
ready-made goods. Ere long he bought and re-
modeled a store, which was subsequently' destro.yed
by fire, and he then built the brick structure which
he now occupies and which is 18x60 feet in dimen-
sions. No other dealer in the place has been stead-
il}- engaged here as long as he. He handled sewing
machines and musical instruments six 3'ears, but in
the fall of 1889 disposed of his entire stock in those
lines.

In 1884 Mr. Weber and J. A. Harrison, a thresher,
conceived the idea of constructing and patenting a
grain weigher. The models were perfected in
1885, and the Perfection Grain Weigher is proving

satisfactor)', being the only arrangement in that
line that is so. It is an instrument attached to the
side of the separator and is in three parts — the
elevator, hopper and convej'or. Improvements
are being made upon it from time to time as the
inventor sees how its usefulness can be enhanced.
It is now manufactured bj- Selby Starr & Co., of
Peoria, and will uudoubtedl}- bring Mr. Weber a
pleasing reward.
I The estimable lady who presides over Mr. We-
; ber's home is a native of Hesse-Darmstadt, Ger-
man}', and was formerly known as Miss Barbara
Smith. She is a daughter of Jacob Smith, of Kick-
apoo, who emigrated to the States whan she was
two 5'ears old. The marri.nge riles of Iierself and
our subject were celebrated at her home November
24, 1868. The marriage has been blessed by the
birth of eight children, those now living being
Julia, Christine, Joseph, Anton and George. All
are still inmates of the parental home.

Mr. Weber has been a member of the \illage
Board four years, and was President the first j-ear.
He belongs to the Catholic Church, assisted much
in the erection of the building, being one of the
committee, and in other wa3S aids in enlarging the
organization. He is a stanch member of the Repub-
lican |>arty. He has prospered in worldl)- affairs,
and in addition to his busmess projierty owns otlicr
lots and a pleasant residence.

■5v HARLES HAYES. The sturdy persistence
~^, of the English character, which, having once
aimed at a certain mark will vanquish ob-
stacles which would seem insurmountable to a less
determined spirit, is well exemplified in the career
of the gentleman above named, a resident of Jubi-
lee Township. He has a most excellent reputation
as a public school teacher, perhaps one of the best
proofs of the regard in which he is held being the
fact that he has taught the home school eight suc-
cessive years and has again had it in charge two
years. It being generally true that a '-prophet; is
not without honor save in his own country and
among his own people," it is a great credit to one

I'OKTIIAir AND BIOGRAPinCA.L ALBUM.

•29!)

engaged in llic piot'os!<i<)n of U-aching, to liave the
suffrage of Hie people in liis own neighborhood
3-ear after year.

Although seliool teaching has been the prineiiwl
business of Mr. llnyes since his nineteenth year he
has done good work in opening up a farm, in car-
rying ou the same, and in local public affairs. He
is now Commissioner of Highways for Jubilee
Township, and Treasurer of the Townsliip IJoard of
Commissioners. lie was first elected to this ofHce in
1888 for a two year's term, at the expiration of
which he was again elected, this time for three
years. From 1878 until 1888 he w.is Township
Clerk and he has also served as School Director
three years. His political adherence is given to the
Democratic party and he votes a straight ticket.
With a fine mind which he has cultivated under
good instructors and by well-directed personal
efforts, with pleasing manners and an upright char-
acter, he is well esteemed by those with whom his
lot in life is cast.

lioberl Hayes, the grandfather of our subject.
was an Knglisii laboring man and his sou .Tames
became an inn-keeper at White I'arisli, Wiltshire.
The latter married JIary Russell, a native of the
same shire and daughter of Peter Russell, a dairy
farmer. To this couple nine children were born,
he of whom we write being next to the youngest.
The seventh child, Sidney, died in England. 'J'he
others accompanied theii father to America in
18.5li, their mollier having died four years previ-
ously, -lames Hayes and his family spent two
months at Cleveland, Ohio, then went to Chicago,
where they sojourned six months. The father did
not like the country and returning to his former
neighborhood in England, leaving his children be-
hind him in the United States, engaged in farming.
Although now seventy-six years old he still follows
that occupation. He is a member of the Episcopal
Church.

The members of the parental family now living
are Mrs. Sophia Legassick, of Delaware County,
Iowa; Thomas, of Mt. Ayr, Iowa; Mrs. Harriet
Stride, of Sioux Falls, S. Dak.; our subject; and
Mrs. Jennie Herriott, of Brimfield, this county.
Mrs. Elizabeth L.Pacey died in Brimfield Township,
this county, in 1888. George and Henr\- gave

their lives,'in'sup|)ort of the Union flag duiing the
late war. George enlisted in 1861 in an Illinois
Regiment and served until he sickened and died in
Kentucky. Henry also enlisted in 1861, going
from Iowa to join the Twenty-first Missouri In-
fantry, and dying of disease two years later.

The subject of this notice was born at White
Parish, England, January 1), 18 18, and reared at his
birthplace until he was eight years old. He left
London with the other members of the family on
the sailing vessel "Palestine" in August, 18,')6, and
after a voyage of six weeks landed at New York,
whence they went at once to Cleveland. He re-
mained in Cuyahoga County, not far from Cleve-
land, with an .lunt about a year, after which the
children together moved to Dyersville, Delaware
County, Iowa, and began working out. Our sub-
ject worked on a farm ft>r a cousin, attending
school winters and finally engaged in teaching when
nineteen years old. He taught winter schools only
during the first two years, after wliich he [ml in an
entire year's time at pedagogy.

In the fall of 1809, young Hayes came to Peo-
ria County, 111., to follow his profession, his first
school here being in Rosefield Township. Tn 1870,
he attended the Peoria County >,'ormal School, in
the fall returning to his work as instructor, since
which time he has taught each winter and also
some summers. Although he has had a High
S 'hool position offered him he has not accepted, but
continues to labor in the district schools to which
he tlevotes about six months in each j'ear. For a
time he devoted the summers to employment for
others, but in 1874, was able to buy a small farm.
It consisted of forty acres on section 7, Jubilee
Township, the price beiug -"^lioOO.

Locating u[)on the land he had purchased, Mr.
Ilaj'es engaged in fanning for himself and has now
made a nice place out of his estate. He purchased
an additional fort^' acres, has hedged and tiled the
entire acreage, set out a good orchard and groves
upon it, and erected a cozy dwelling, adequate
barn, granaries, etc. A portion of the estate was
grubbed and broken by Mr. Hayes himself. It is
watered by a smjvU stream fiowing through it and
contains a valuable deposit of coal, the bank being
now rented, although operated four years by the

300

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

owner. Mr. Haj'es feeds numbers of hogs and
cattle, raises graded cattle and swine, and some ex-
cellent horses. He has a convenient market, being
but two and a quarter miles from Brimfiekl. His
professional labors in the county liave included two
years in Kosefleld and BrimBeld Townships, each,
the rest of the time having been given to labor in
his own township, and as before stated, largely in
his own district.

An important step in the life of our subject took
place in Jubilee Townshij), December 28, 1875, it
being no less than his marriage to Miss Elizabeth
Hindle. This young lady is a daughter of John
Hindle, of England, whose history is incorporated
in the sketch of his son, James Hindle, which occu-
pies a place in this Ai.bdm. She was born in Jubi-
lee Township. April 7, 1859, is an intelligent,
amiable, useful woman, finding her highest enjoy-
ment in her home duties and the society of husband
and cliildren. but b}' no means neglecting her many
friends. Mr. and Mrs. Hayes have six children
living, viz: Arleigh, Roxanna, Leslie, May, Harry
and Jennie A. They lost an infant daughter Edith,
who died when but five days old.

3ge of this gentleniau not onh' to watch
much of the growth of this county, but also
to materially aid its advancement as a great
agricultural center, and for many j'ears he stood
among the foremost farmers and stock-growers of
this part of Illinois. He acquired a fortune, and
was enabled to retire from active life in 1879, to
enjoy his wealth ere old age had overtaken him,
and is now living in one of the pleasantest homes
of Elmwood City, where be is held in honor as a
noble t^-pe of the pioneers of the county, whose
true, upright lives have contributed to elevate its
citizenshii).

Our subject was born in Pennsylvania, April 27,
1815, to Robert and Elizabeth (Bevins) Grah.am,
natives respectively of County Down, Ireland,
and Pennsylvania. They married and resided in
the Keystone State until 1818, when they removed

to Highland County-, Ohio, of which they were
early pioneers. The father opened up a new farm,
which he afterward disposed of, and came with his
family to Illinois in 1853. He died in 1854, and
his wife in about 1860, and both are peacefully
sleeping their last sleep in Pleasant Grove Ceme-
tery, Logan Township, Peoria County. To those
worthy people twelve children were born, of whom
two are now living, our subject and his youngest
sister. Mrs. Maria Sherwood, of Logan County.

iMr. Graham was a boy of three years when he
accompanied his parents from his native State to
Ohio, and as soon as he was large enough he aflorde.l
his father great assistance in clearing and improv-
ing his farm in the primeval forests of that State.
At eighteen years of age he left home to learn the
trade of a carpenter, and w.as employed at that four
months, but apparently not having a taste for it,
he resumed farming, and worked by the raontli in
his father's neighborhood for ^8 and s9 permontb,
continuing so eugaged for three years. In 1835,
he went to Knox County, Ohio, and worked on a
farm there until June of that year, and then drove
some sheep to Michigan, going through the famous
Black Swamp, where there were plenty of Indians,
and three months were consumed in making the
trip. He returned to his home in the fall, and
worked by the month until September 2G, 1837,
which was the date of his marriage to Miss Ruth
Ruse, a daughter of John Ruse. Her fattier was
a native of North Carolina, and was one of the ear-
liest pioneers of Ohio. The family was of (Quaker
stock, and all now are deceased.

After his marriage Mr. Graham settled in High-
laud County, and was employed by the mouth there
the ensuing three years. He was ambitions to make
more money, as his finances were very low. and he
decided tliat he could better his condition by com-
ing to Illinois, and the year 1810 found him a resi-
dent of this State, he having arrived in Elmwood
Township. October 12. Here he immediately found
work and was employed by the da\- and month, and
carefully saved up his earnings to buy him a piece
of land. In 1845 his object was accomplished, and
he became the possessor of a forly-acre tract of
land on section 36, this township. He actively en-
tered upon its improvement, as it had been but lit-

I'OnrU.MT AND lUOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

301

tie develoi)Ccl. and in time i)unli:iseil fully tuies
adjoining. Tliere was a small house on the place,
weather-boarded and clap-boarded, and in that he
made his home. During the four years tiiat he
staid there he adiled many improvements, and then
sold it for §700 in tlie fall of 1849, which was an
advance of 8400 on the purchase price. In the
same season he bought eighty acres of raw prairie
land in Logan Township, paying 11,000 for it. He
put Mji a house and barn, and moved onto the place
])eceml)er .'), and that winter fenced it, drawing the
rails a distance of eight miles. The next summer
he brolic the prairie sod, and in the fall sowed
wheat. He was then in debt >!2,000, but in two
years, so industrious had lie been, and so well had
his croi)s turned out, that he was out of debt, and
was cnal)le<l to buy another tract of forty acres of
land adjoining his homestead. He kept tliat farm
one year longer, and at the expiration of that time
sold it for -^,').800 cash. The next February he
bouLdit two liundred and twenty acres of laud in
the same townslu[), one hundred and sixty acres of
whicli was in its natural state, forty acres were im-
proved, and twenty acres of it was in timber. lie
improved one liundred and eighty acres of that
place, and again iiauled rails a distance of eight
miles to fence it, and at tiie end of six montiis sold
tlie wliole tract at an advance of §12. .50 on an .acre.
Ml-, (iraiiam's next move was to Iowa. He spent
two montlis in INIarion County, but evidently did
not like that State well enough to locate there, as
he liien returned to Illinois, and settled in Trivoli
Tllwn^llip. two miles east of Farmington, on the old
"Orton farm," one hundred ai:d twenty acres of
which was improved. He stajed there eighteen
months, then took advantage of a good opportu-
nity to rent it for three years, and subsequently
bouglit his JiOgan Township farm. He resided
thereon seven years, and at the end of that time
sold one hundreil and forty acres at *(!.') per acre.
He next became a resident of Kimwood Township,
where he pureiiased live lunidred .acres of land on
sections 27 and .'i4. paying §10 an acre to its origi-
nal owner, .loel Blakesley. It was improved, and
he was actively engaged in its cultivation 'the en-
suing five years, and made eonsideraliie money by
his labors. He then gave and sold some of his farm

to his family, and retired from the cares of his ex-
tensive agricultural business in 1879, to his pres-
ent home in Elmwood City. He had paid out for
land in his neighborhood, Lehigh Prairie, in all
§34,400, and during his whole career as a tiller of
the soil and a raiser of stock, displayed remark-
able foresigiit, business t.aet and judgment, which
brought him wealth.

After a calm and hai)py wedded life of fifty years
and six months, the wife of our subject, who h.ad
cheered and encouraged him in his work by her
kindly presence and ever iielpfnl assistance, w.as
taken from his side to walk .- ith him on earth no
more, and now lies sleeping in Elmwood ceraeterj-.
Her death was a severe blow to her husband, but
he does not mourn as one without hope, as his per-
fect faith and trust in one "who doeth all things
well," leads him to believe that they will once more
meet where there is no death.

By his marriage, our subject became the father
of nine children, of whom six are now living.
The names of the mcmlters of his family are: Sam-
uel S., Nancy J. (Mrs. McFarland), William,
George, Henry, Charles F., Elizabetii, Leander,
and Albert, the last three being dead. His son,
William was a brave soldier in the late Civil War,
and sacrificed much for his country. He was a
member of the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and
while fighting at the front at the battle of Perrys-
ville, was wounded in the arm ami side, and at
Kenesaw Jlountaiu received a second wound, and
is now a cripple.

Mr. Graham is emphatically a self-made man, as
he began life in comparative poverty, and all that
he has and all that he is, is due entirely to his own
exertions. His family seem to have inherited his
energetic traits of character, and talent for business.
and are all rich, and some of them have already
retired from active life. In all his dealings, his
straightforward honesty anil unswerving integrity
have been conspicuous, and no man is more thor-
oughly trusted than he. He is a man of marked
force of character, self-respecting and resolute, and
is always found on the right side in any movement
in which he interests himself. He has been an in-
fluential member of the IMcthodist Episcopal Church
for twenty years, and his lieloved wife was also

302

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

connected with that denomination. lie has been a
Class-Leader. Superintendent of the Sunday-school,
and is now Trustee, and was ver3'^ active in help-
ing- to build the church called Graham Chapel, on
Lehigh Pr.iirie, generously contributing one-fourth
of the cost of the building, he being a member of
the building committee. His eldest son has been
the Secretary of the society for years. Our subject
has alwa3's been zealous in the cause of education,
and bits been a strong supporter of the free schools
and at diffei'ent times has been School Director.
He has interested himself greatly in [X)lities, and at
tlie age of twenty-one j-ears became an enthusiastic
Abolitionist. His first vote was cast for V.an Biiren,
the only Democratic candidate that he ever sup-
ported, and after that he became a IJepnblican, and
i.s still identified with that party.

^ IfclLLIAM H. TODD. No one of Peoria
\/iJr County's native-born citizens is more
W^ worthy of representation in this biograpli-
ical volume than William Todd, ex-Supervisor of
Millbrook Township, wiio has been a life-long
farmer, and has his farm on section 20, under fine
improvement.

Our subject was born in this county. July 31,
1855'? and is a son of the well-known pioneer,
Alaxander Todd and his wife Ann (Jlanes) Todd.
His mothei is now deceased, having died September
3, 1884, leaving behind her the blessed record of a
good and true womanhood.

Alexander Todd was born in the North of Ireland
October 31, 180G,and emigrated from that country
to this when a young man. He sought and found
employment in Philadelphia, Pa., being engaged by
a banker in making collections. He subsequently
learned the trade of a weaver and followed it for a
lime. He was married in Philadelphia and became
tlie father of eleven children, of whom the follow-
ing nine are living: Alexander, in California; Eliza-
beth, wife of M. A. Gardner of this county; Robert
M.,in Princeville Township; John in Kansas; Mary,
wife of Andrew German of Yates City, III,; Quin-
tin, in Western Iowa; Aichibald in Missouri, and

William H. Three of his sons bore a brave part
in the Union army during the late War. James
gave up his life for his country, having served in
the army about a year before his death. John and
Robert were members of the Forty-second Illinois
Infantry; .lohn was out three years and Robert was
in the army one year.

In 1840, the father of our subject came to this
couiily, and settled in Timber Township on a new
farm, ho being one of the first pioneers to locate
there. His land was mostlj' covered with timber
and was in .ibout the same condition that the In-
dians had left it. He actively entered on his pio-
neer labors of felling trees, clearing the laml, and
preparing it for cultivation, and in the course of
years had it under good improvement. In 1867, he
took up his residence in Millbrook Town.ship, on
section 20, and has lived here ever since. His farm
comprises the southeast quarter of section 20, and
in every respect is in a fine condition, with substan-
tial buildings, well tilled fields, good fences and a
complete sj^stem of drainage.

j\Ir. Todd is now among the oldest pioneers still
living in this county, and is held in honor for the
substantial part he has taken in promoting the
growtii of this section of conntrv. He has always
been found among those who are active in advanc-
ing the interests of the community, and he has
done good service in a civic capacity, as an Assessor
in lioth Timber and Millbrook Townships.

William H. Todd, our subject, passed the earl}-
years of his life under the influence of the pioneer
modes of living that still prevailed in his younger
days, and he has done much pioneer laltor himself
in his character as a practical farmer. He gleaned
a good education in the public schools, mostly in
Millbrook Township, and is a thoughtful, intelli-
gent, well-informed man, having decided opinions
of bis own. He is quite a politician, has alwaj-s
taken an active interest in political matters, using
his influence in favor of the Republican party.
For two years he served on the County Board of
Supervisors, and his wise caution and straightfor-
ward discharge of the duties of his office made him
very acceptable as a public official. We always
find liini abetting all useful schemes that will in
any way enhance the m.alerial, social or religious

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

303

progress of the township. He is one of the leading
members of the Presbyterian Church at I'"reucU
Grove, in which he serves as I':ifier, and his gener-
ous aid and liberal contributions encourage the
good work his church is carrying on.

September 19, 1878, William II. Todd and Anna
K. Stewart, were united in a marriage that has
proved the source of happiness to both of them.
Mrs. 'I'odd is a daughter of William and Sarah
( Brooks) Stewart,of Logan 'l'ownshi|), of which they
were early settlers. Our subject and his wife have
had six children, five of whom arc living, as fol-
lows: Charles, Archibald, Lillie, Lois, and Bruce.
The death of their son James was a grievous blow
to them.

— 3"»-

EDWIN IIARKNESS. A compendium of
biographies in Peoria Count}' would be
) sadly incomplete did it lack that of the

gentleman whose well-known cognomen is found
al)Ove, and whose deeds are worthy of record
within its pages. As a loyal and gallant soldier
during the dark days of the Civil War, as a fear-
less ranchman in the western wilds, as a reliable
citi/.en and public olficer, and as a man of honor
and trustworthiness, he claims the respect and
good-will of his fellow-men. It affords the biog-
rapher pleasure therefore, to incorporate in these
Ijages some brief notes regarding his career.

Mr. Ilarkness is a native of the Keystone State,
in which his eyes opened to the light June 24,
18 13. and is a twin of Edson Ilarkness, whose
sketch api)ears elsewhere in this Album. Their
parents, Daniel and Eliza (Scott) Ilarkness, natives
of the Old Dominion, lived from childhood in
Pennsylvania, and there began their wedded life.
In 1816 they removed to the comparatively un-
settled region of Central Illinois, locating upon a
farm in Elmwood Township, Peoria County, and
here our subject grew toward manhood. He ac-
quired n common-school education in the township
schools, and in addition learned much not to be
found in text-books, regarding Uie various depart-
ments of agricultural life and the principles which

should govern one's conduct toward all human-
kind.

The l)reaking out of the Civil War found our
subject about eighteen years of age, full of enthus-
iasm in regard U) liis duty as a loyal citizen, and
persuaded in his own mind that his place was at
the front. He enlisted as a private in the Ninth
Illinois Caxalry for a term of eighteen months,
went through all the grades to Orderly Scu-geant
in Company L, and was tinally promoted to a Sec-
ond Lieutenancy. He was (iurolled at Chicago,
December 12, ISGl, and on March IG, !8(;4, the
regiment veteranized. They wore finally mustered
out in October, 1865, receiving th('ir discharge
papers in November.

The regiment when first mustered in was sent to
St. Louis, Mo., and thence to Iron Mountain, there
l)ut unilerthe command of Gen. Steele and marched
to .lacksonport, some skirmishing taking place on
the w.a}'. Proceeding down the White River to
Helena, Ark., with Gen. C'urtis, the boys endured
some terribly hard campaigning, during whicli
they were often obliged to drink swamp water, and
had several sharp skirmishes. They also had
pitched battles with the enemy at Waddell's and
Stewart's plantations, finallj', however, reaching
their objective point, where they remained until
March, 1863, the tedium of camp life being re-
lieved bj' somewhat frequent skirmishes. Their
next expedition was under (ien. C. C. Washburn,
his operations being performed in the vicinity of
Memphis, Tenn., for about a year, after which they
went to Corinth. The Guntown exi)edition, the
exploits of (!en. A. J. Smith at Tupelo and Hurri-
cane Creek, the battles of Salem and Wyatt (Miss.),
Saulsburg (Tenn.), West Point, Okolona, Mt. Ivy,
and Coldwater (Miss.), gave them abundant oppor-
tunitj' to display their bravery and powers of en-
durance.

After re-eidisting the regiment marciied to Mem-
phis, thence going to the North on a thirty-days
furlough. At the expiration of that time they re-
turned to Memphis, took part in the battle of
Abbcyville, Miss., and then pursued the cavalry of
Gen. Wheeler. They subsequently took part in the
battle of Campbellsville, am) that at Franklin, the
latter being one of the most bloody conflicts in which

304

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

they boro a part. Tlie more notable affrays and
campaigns of their army life are sufficient to indi-
cate to all who understand the soldier's duties, and
know amid what scenes the battles were fought,
that much is left untold of arduous toil, dangerous
sallies, and situations in which discretion and stern
courage were demanded.

After the close of the war Mr. Darkness returned
to his home in the Prairie State, and with liis
Inother Edson labored on the parental homestead
in Elmwood Township, tins county, until 1874.
He tlien took up the life of a ranchman near Chey-
enne, AV.yo., spending two years in stock-raising,
and herding one hundred head of cattle. The In-
dians becoming hostile, he finally chose a new lo-
cation near Ft. Fetterman, where for two j-ears he
carried on operations in stock on a still larger scale
than he had previously done. Another year was
spent by him in the vicinity »f Cheyenne, after
wliich he located on Hat Creek, remaining there
until 1883. Space forbids us to detail his exper-
ience during the nine years tiiat he spent in the
great grazing lands of the Rock}' Mountain region.
Suffice it to say that a cool head, a keen eye, a firm
scat in the saddle, and an intrepid spirit are need-
ful to him who would succeed "on tiie range" and
pass tlirough its scenes in safety.

In 1883 Mr. Harkness determined to join those
who were making use of unclaimed land in the In-
dian Territory' as a range for tiieir cattle, and he
therefore made tiiat section of the country the
headquarters for his stock business until 188G. He
then returned to the famil}', from whom he iiad
been separated much of the time for over a decade,
and prepared to enjoy with them the fruits of his
industrious labors. He is not now in active
business, finding sufficient to occupy him in a gen-
eral oversight of his investments, and tlie duties of
Assessor of Elmwood Township, which he is dis-
charging in a capable and satisfactory manner. His
political views have been quite conservative, and
he gives his allegiance to the Republican party.
He is a temperance man both in theory and prac-
tice.

Mr. Harkness was fortunate in winning for his
wife a woman of more than ordinary intelligence,
appreciative nature, ami fine, womanly traits of

character. This lady. Miss Sarah Arabella Mettler.
was born in New Brunswick, N. J., February 13,
1851, and became his wife November 27, 1879.
Her parents; John and Amanda M. (Rea) M(tttler,
both natives of New Jersey, came to Illinois in
1853, first settling in Fulton Count}^ and later re-
moving to Elmwood Township, Peoria County.
There the mother died in 1871, and the father in
1879. Mrs. Harkness spent two summers with her
husband in Wyoming, and there their eldest child,
Erlow M., died. Four fine looking children add
to the joys of home the graces of childhood and
their ever increasing intelligence. The little fam-
ily consists of Eula Belle. Edwin Rea, Mary Lucille
and an infant named Willie.

ETER W. HAWI>EY, the son of a family
which was among the early settlers of this
section of the State, is himself one of the
pioneers of the count}- and is occupying and
managing a large farm, which he entered from the
Government moi'c than forty years ago.

The parents of our subject were Truman and
Betsej^ (Younglove) Ilawley, natives, resi)ectivelv,
of Vermont and New Jersey. At some period of
their married life, in the year 1815, thej' removed
from their New England home among the hills of
Yerraont,to New York State and cast in tlieir lot with
the pioneers of Oswego County. In 1835 they again
became pioneers of a newly settled region, taking up
their residence in Medina Township, this county,
where their remaining j'ears were passed. Until the
father's death the}' lived on the old homestead, and
then the mother made her home with our subject
until she died. Mr. II,awley was a well-known .and
liigidy-reputed citizen of Medina Township, and
was quite prominent there. He was the first Post-
master at Mt. Holl}', und held the position for
several 3'ears, till his demise. He and his wife were
the paients of two sons and three daughters.

Our subject was the eldest of the famil}', and
was born in the pretty town of Arlington. Vt., Sep-
tember 24, 1813. He was two years old when his
parents emigrated to the State of New Yo''k, and

rp^tr^

"-V^

''(y^-^'>nn,JCc^

TytrTn-i

PORRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

309

there he grew to man's estate. la 1835 he ac-
companied his parents to this cnnty, and lived
with them until his marriage. Hiwas bred to the
life of a farmer and has always foowed that call-
ing, and is still proprietor of thebmestead that he
piircliased from the Government!! 1838, which is
;)le:ii;antly located on section 25, Kdnor Township.
It comprises three hundred and tie acres of well-
lilied land, and all the improveienls upon it, in-
cluding a good set of farm buildigs, are the work
of his own hand, and he has e«y reason to be
proud of what he has accomplish^.

The comforts of the home th; lie has built up
here are due in a great measure t the thoughtful
care of his good wife, to whom h was united in
marriage in Medina Township, r>!.'ember24, 1846.
Her maiden name was Adalet Heman, and she was
horn in Oswego County, N. Y., Foruary 28, 1825.
She is a daughter of Asa and Rebecca (Hurd)
llenraan, who were also nativesof that part of
Xew York. They were the parent'of two children,
(if whom she was the j'oungest. \jEter her father's
death her mother married Justusl'orrey, and they
came to this county and were arang the pioneers
of Medina Towns'jip, where theyUed.

Mr. and Mrs. Hawlej- are theparents of nine
children, of whom two died wheir|uite3-oung, and
the following still live — Alden L.Frank J., Deroy
L., .Justus T., Peter T., Guy and harles B.

In politics Mr. Hawley firmlj' elieves that the
policj- of the Republican party i the best to be
pursued in the guidance of nationl affairs, and he
is accordingly a stanch Republitn. He is a fair-
minded, honest man of exemplry habits, whose
line reputati(m gives him a placiamong our most
liighly considered citizens, and asi pioneer of Rad-
nor Township his name will evei'^e linked with its
histor3'.

^ AMES MOONEY, of Media Township, is a
gentleman whose life haslieen marked by
no wonderful events, but ^y a steady per-
sistence in the calling whih he chose, and
a quiet pursuance of what he judes right in his as-
sociation with huinniiitv and in iimestic life. He

occupies the Mooney homestead on section 11, Me-
dina Township, is numbered among the farmers
who have acquired a considerable share of worldly
goods, and is an excelhnt representative of the
agricultural community. The homestead was se-
cured by his father in 1835 as a military tr.act, and
is now considered one of the best farms in the
county. It has been the home of our subject since
he accompanied his parents hither, and he has be-
come one of the best known men in this section of
the county. Besides owning the present homestead
he has possessed other well-improved property,
having given each of his five sons an eightj-acre
tract.

Grandfather ilooney, who bore the given name
of Thomas, was a native of County Louth, Ireland,
a fanner and man of influence there. Being in op-
position to some of the tyrannical forms of Gov-
ernment, his life was threatened, and he fled to
America with his family in 1798. He located in
New York Citj', dying there when quite an old
man. In his native land he had married Mary
Graj', an Irish lady of the same countj% who, like
himself, was a life-long member of the Catholic
Church. They were the parents of four sons and
two daughters, all of whom lived to manhood and
womanhood, all marrj'ing but one.

Among the children of the couple above men-
tioned was a son Thomas, who was born in County
Louth, Ireland, and was ten years old when his par-
ents settled in the United States. He grew to man-
hood in New York Citj% where he learned the trade
of a harness-maker, after having completed his edu-
cation. He finally went into New Jersey, and there
married Helen Stagg, a native of Passaic County,
and descended from old Dutch stock. Her father,
James Stagg, was the son of a commissioned officer
of the Colonial Army. James Stagg was a farmer
who lived to the age of more than three-score, dy-
ing in his native count}% where his widow also died
at an advanced age.

After his marriage, Thomas Moonej% Jr., opened
a grocer3' store in New York City, continuing in
the business until 1835, when he determined to lo-
cate in the West. AVith his wife, four sons and a
daughter, he set out for Illinois, going up the Hud-
son River to Albany, thence by the Erie Canal to

310

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Buffalo, crossing the lake to Cleveland, Ohio, then
crossing the Bucke\-e State to Portsmouth, and con-
tinuing his journey down the Ohio and up the Mis-
sissippi and Illinois Rivers to Peoria. A period of
four weeks was consumed in the journe}". Mr.
Mooney at once secured three iiundred and twenty
acres of prairie land, and one hundred and sixty
acres of tiralier in Medina Township, and began
life in the pioneer style. The surrounding coun-
try was wild and sparsely settled, and neighbors
were few.

A log house was built, which was replaced bj' a
more coaifortable dwelling after Mr. Moone}- had
made a start in the improvement of his farm. He
continued his labors thereon, ably assisted by his
wife, until they were surrounded bj' man\' evi-
dences of comfort and prosperity. He liecame
quite prominent, holding some of the local offices,
and serving as County Commissioner. He was a
man of genial nature, industrious and enterprising
ill the pursuit of that to which he gave his atten-
tion, a devout believer in the principles of Cathol-
icism, and a strong Democrat in politics. He
died at liis home at the extreme age of ninety j'ears,
his remains Ijcing deposited in the cemetery of tlie
St. Joseph Catiiolic Church, which he had helped
to organize. Mrs. Mooney had been brought up
under the Presb3'terian faith, but died in tliat of
the Catholic Church vriien ne.irly three score j'ears
old.

Our subject is the oldest member of the i)areutal
family. He has two brothers and a sister still liv-
ing. His natal day was November 15, 1814, and
his birthplace, Passaic Countv. N. J. He was
reared in the (-ity of New York, receiving his edu-
cation there and being nearly of age when his par-
ents came West. He was married in the townshii)
which is now his home, to Elizabeth Jenett, an in-
telligent and capable woman who has been devoted
to the interests of her husband and children dur-
ing a long and happy married life. Mrs. Mooney
was born in County Louth. Ireland, in 1S22, and
leaving lost her parents, came to America with her
brother Michael when about seventeen years old.
They at once settled iu the Prairie State, which has
since been their home. Mr. and ^Irs. Mooney be-
long to St. Joseph's Catholic Cliurch, and Mr.

Mooney takes an active part in local politics, ex-
erting his influence, and casting his vote for the
Democratic party.

The family of Jlr. and Mrs. Moonej' consists of
five sons and one daughter, of whom we note the
following: William married Anna Burk, and lives
on a farm in Ilallock Township; ]\I. Thomas mar
ried Ann Rogers, and is farming in the same town-
ship; George W. is a grocer in Chillicothe; James,
who married Belle Hughes, occupies a farm in Me-
dina Township; Oliver K. married Mary Brennan,
his home being a farm in Medina Township; Marj-
A. is the wife of J. C. Dolan, a real-estate dealer
in Peoria.

In connection with this sketch we present litho-
graphic portraits of Mr. Mooney and his estimable
wife.

/^N IIARLES L. BOWERS, an honored resident
ill ^ of Elmwood City, where he owns and oc-
^^Jf' cupies a comfortable and well-appointed
home, is the proprietor of a good farm, lying
partly in Elmwood Township and the remainder
in Brimfield Township. By his skill as a farmer
he has secured an ample competence, and was en-
abled to rent his place -at a good advantage and
retire from active business while yet scarcely past
the meridian of life.

Mr. Bowers comes from a brave and sturdj* an-
cestry that settled in America in Colonial times,
and representatives of the family fought loyally
in both the Revolution and in the U'ar of 1812,
and again in the late Civil War was the family
represented in the person of our subject, who did
gallant service for the Union cause and received
deserved promotion from the ranks, and bj' his
brother Harrison. A native of Muskingum County,
Ohio, our subject was born in 1833. His father
was John Bowers, of Pennsylvania birth, while
his mother was Rebecca (Vernon) Bowers, also
of Pennsjdvania. His parents went to Ohio in
their j'oung days, and there married and estab-
lished their first home. They lived there till
1853, and then went to Iowa and located in that
Stat€ permanently. She died in 1872 and he died

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALRUM.

311

in 1878, both leaving records of honorable lives
well spent. The Bowers faniil}' are descenfled
from English and German stock. The father of
our siiliject was a soldier in the War of 1812,
vvliile his father, John Bowers, served in the Revo-
lution and was present at the surrender of Corn ■
wallis at Yorktown. On the mother's side, the
ancestry of our subject was of mingled English,
Scotch and Irish blood. His uncle, Joseph Ver-
non. scr\ed under Gen. W. H. Harrison in the
War of 1S12. One of the brothers of our subject,
Ihirrison Bowers, gave up his life on the altar of
his country during the late Civil War. He was a
member of Company K, Fourth Iowa Cavalry, re-
ceived an injur}- from a horse, and died from tlie
effects of it at tlie age of twenty-three 3'ears.

Mr. Bowers is one of a family of twelve chil-
dren, of whom eleven are now living. He re-
ceived his education in the common schools of
Ohio and Iowa, coming westward at tlie age of
twenty years. He remained witli Ijis father, assist-
iiiu him greatly in the management of his agricuit-
iirnl interests, till he was twenl\^-(ive years old.
lie tlien entered upon his career as an independent
f.iriner and improved a farm in Henry Count}',
iosva, wliicli he sold in 1863 at a good advance,
!ind came to Illinois to take advantage of its ex-
(cptioually fine agricultural resources. He bought
;i farm in Brimfield Township, and actively en-
tered upon its cultivation, and in the years that
fiilldwed placed it under substantial improvement.
It is very desirably- located, and comprises eighty
acres in Brimfield Township and eighty acres in
••'.Iniwood Township, all of which is under admira.
Iile tillage.

Mr. Bowers was first wedded to ]\Iiss Emiline .T.
.More.y, their marriage taking place May 24, 1860.
Her parents. David and Elizabeth (Conroe) JMo-
rey, natives of Ohio, came to this count}- in pio-
neer days, and after living here for a lime moved
to Iowa. In 1866 they returned to tliis part of
the country, and settled in Elmwood Township,
which they made their home till his death. His
widow survives him and makes her home in Kan-
sas. By their marri.age thej- became the parents
of six children. Mrs. Bowers was born in 1841,
and after a luief but hai)py wedded life with our

subject, died in 1866, leaving two children, Ida B.
and H. G. The former is the wife of H. P. Zink,
of Brimfield Township, and they have two chil-
dren. The latter a resident of BriniQeld Town-
ship, married Slar}' Reed and they have two chil-
dren.

Mr. Bowers was married a second time June 27,
1867, to Mary E. Burt, a daughter of Charles P.
and Lucretia (Davis) Burt, natives of \'ermont.
They came West in 1853, and cast in their for-
tunes with the pioneers of Brimfield Township,
and there he rounded out a useful life in 1870,
and she in 1874. They were the parents of four
children, of whom Mis. Bowers, the third in order
of birth, was born January 20, 1841, in the village
of Rockingham, Vt. She received an excellent
education in the public schools of Brimfield Town-
ship, and adopted the profession of a teacher, and
has taught school successfully in Peoria and Knox
Counties. She is a woman of rare intelligence,
and of a fine character and has been a great help
to her husband. The only grief of their wedded
life has been in the death of the two children born
to them.

In the fall of 1863, our subject enlisted in Com-
pany K, Fourth Iowa Cavalry, of which he became
Corporal, and bore an honorable part in the sup-
pression of the rebellion. He was engaged in the
battles of Tupelo, Guntown and Ripley, Miss.;
Sclma, Ala.; his regiment was the first to occupy
Montgomeiy, Ala., and he was in front of the
breastworks at Macon, Ga., when word was re-
ceived of Lee's surrender. Our subject v/ith his
company, was at Columbus, Ga., May 16, 1865,
and was subsequently mustered out at Atlanta and
was discharged at Davenport, Iowa, in August,
1865, he having shown throughout his military life
true soldieiy qualities, proving himself to be effi-
cient, cool headed and self reliant, in all times and
at all places.

Mr. Bowers has intelligent views on all matters
of public import, and especially is he interested in
the cause of temperance, and is an active temper-
ance worker, supporting the straight Prohibition
ticket, though he had formerly been identified
with the Republican party from the days of Fre-
mont to the time of (iarficld. All who know our

312

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

subjeol. and he has many fiiends, are agreed that
he is a thoroughly- good, upright man, with a
kindly, sincere and honest nature, that involunta-
rily calls out the res[)ecl and trust of all who come
in contact with him. He and his wife are niem-
liers in high standing of the Methodist Episcopal
Church in Ehnwood, and are never beliiud their
fellows in good works, whether of a charitable, social
or religious character.

-^-*'^-

!)HOMAS AARS, <a resident of Edelstein,
where he is living in a beautiful home, in
^^^f' honorable retirement from an active busi-
ness life, is one of the most prorainent citizens of
Hallock Township, where he long carried on .agri-
culture, acquiring a handsome comi)etence thereby.
He is also one of its trusted civic oHicials,
discharging the duties of one of its most responsi-
ble offices in a thoroughly business-like manner,
redounding to the financial benefit of the com-
munity.

Mr. Vars has been connected with the interests
of this township and county since 185t. He then
purchased one hundred and sixt3- acres of wild
land, comprising a quarter of section 9, Hallock
Township, and there began life as a general farmer
and stock-raiser, his success in which work has
been complete, and he has developed a farm which
is finely improved and is well ordered iu every
particular. He has erected a neat set of farm
buildings, including a fine residence, large barns,
etc. He resided on this place until within a few
months, when he retired from farming to his pres-
ent home. He has also a tract of eighty acres of
land east of his homestead, which is -well devel-
oped, and under excellent improvement. He came
to the countj' with but little of this world's goods
in his possession, and has made his competency
since then by hard labor, directed by sagacious
forethought and excellent methods for carrying on
his work.

Mr. Yars is a native of Rensselaer County,
N. Y., his birth taking place in Berlin, September
7, 1824. His father, Benjamin Vars, is thought

to have been a native of Rhode Island, as he is a
descendant of an old Colonial family, who had set-
tled in that State in earl\- times, coming to New
England from their native France, and for many
generations were represented in that State. They
first spelled their name DeVars, but later, with
the democratic simplicity characteristic of the
New I'.nglaiulers, dropped the prefix and have
since been known bj' the plainer cognomen that
the family bears to-day. The grandfather of our
subject was Thomas Vars, who had gone from his
New England home to become a pioneer of New
York, after his marriage to Abigail Sheldon, a na-
tive of Rhode Island and a descendant of early
settlers of that State. They located in what is now
Berlin, in Rensselaer County, and Thomas Vars,
who was a mechanic with a good deal of mechan-
ical genius .and an adept with carpenter's tools,
followed that trade in connection with farming,
and spent the remainder of his life in Berlin, where
he died when an old man, and his wife also lived
to a ripe old age. They were both prominent
members of the Seventh Day Baptist Church.

Benjamin Vars w.as one of the oldest of the fam-
ily and grew to man's estate in the pioneer home
of his parents in Berlin. He was married in that
town to Miss Olive Walker, a native of the place,
who came of a respectable Y'ork .State family.
After marriage they took up their residence on
the farm, and there their remaining daj-s, which
were many, were passed in quietness and peace and
plenty. All their days they were adherents of the
Seventh Day Baptist faith, and were well known
and greatly respected. Benjamin \'ars was a
Whig iu the latter years of his life. He and his
wife were the parents of five children, of whom
three are yet living, our subject being the only
one who resides in Illinois or the West.

t)ur subject was reared to a stalwart and rigor-
ous manhood in the place of his birth, and e.srly
adopted the calling of a farmer, to which he had
been bred, and we have seen what he has accom-
plished since he became a citizen of the Prairie
State.

It was the good fortune of Mr. Vars to secure
in the person of Miss Helen Hull, a wife who has
been devoted to his interests. They were married

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

313

in their native township, where she was born July
19, 18-27, the eei-emony mailing them one taking
place October 28, 1848. Her parents, Benjamin
and Maria (Jones) Hull, were also natives of
Rensselaer County, and were there reared and
married and began their wedded life in Berlin
Township, which was their birthplace, and there
they finally died at a good old age. Mr. Hull was
scventj' j'ears old when he passed from the scenes
of his usefulness, while his wife reached the ad-
vanced age of ninety years before death called her
hence. Thej' were both hard working jieople,
were well known and highly' thought of in their
native county. Benjamin Hull was the son of
Daniel Hull, who was a native of Little Rhody.
He was a farmer by occupation and a pioneer of
Rensselaer County, he going from his New Eng-
land home to New York, after his marriage to
Phoebe Greene, who was likewise a native of that
part of the country, born either in Rhode Island
or Connecticut, who it, is supposed came from an
old New England family. I) niel Hull anil wife
spent their active years in Berlin Township, and
there died when quite old people.

'i'he wife of our subject was carefully reared by
her parents, and was trained to be an excellent
housewife, and knows well how to manage the
alTairs of her household. She is the mother of
four children, one of whom, Adella, died at the
age of two years. The other children of our sub-
ject and his wife are: Lillie. widow of I'udolph
Ayres, who resides with her two chihiren on the
old homestead; Morton, managing his father's
homestead; and Olive, who lives at home. Mor-
ton married Nettie Potter.

No nian is more deservedly held in the high re-
gard that is accorded to him on all sides, than our
subject. His reputation is of the best, and it is
the universal testimony of all who know him that
his life, past and present, is above reproach.
Such a man is an invaluable aid in the manage-
ment of publie affairs, and his fellow-citizens, rec-
ognizing that fact, having often called him to
olfice and he has held all of the townshii) public
positions from that of Supervisor down to the low-
est in the civic list, and is now Township Treas-
urer. He and his sons hold sound views on all

political questions and favor the Republican party
with their supiiort. Mr. and Mrs. \'ars are prom-
inent members of the Seventh Day Baptist Church
and Mr. Vars has given liberally to the order.
They are both members of the Olil Settler's Society
of this county.

TEDMOND WHITNEY, has a well-culti-
vated farm on section 15,Elmwood Town-
ship, and holds an honorable [jlace among
the men of character and principle, who
have had the making of the township, and are ac-
tive in sustaining its substantial prosperity as one
of the richest farming centers in a county noted for
its exceptionally fine agricultural resources. He is a
not/able figure in the [)ublic life of his community
as one of its leading and most intelligent otHcials,
who performs his civic duties with an eye single to
the good of the public.

Jfr. Whitney is a native of Allegany Countj',
N.Y.. his birth occurring there November 2G, 1823.
His father, Horace Whitney, was a native of Ver-
mont and a farmer. His mother, Hannah (Town)
Whitney, was also a native of the Green Mountain
State. His parents vvere there married and later
removed to New York State, where they made their
permanent home. A whole family of Whitneys
had emigrated from the old home among the hills
of Vermont, including the father and seven broth-
ers, uncles of our subject, and they located near to-
gether in Allegany County, forming a settlement
that is known to this day as Whitney's Valley.
The mother of our subject <lied in 1851, and the
father rounded out his life in 1872. They were ll;e
parents of eight children, (jf whom five are now
living.

The boyhood days of Stedraond Whitney, of
whom we write, were i)assed in New York, and his
education was gleaned in the common schools. He
gained a good practical knowledge of agricidture
in all its brandies and after attaining manhood
still remained at home with his parents, and his
labors were given for the benefit of his father's
farm until he was thirty years old. The first few

314

rORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

3-ears of his married life were spent in his native

State, but in the spring of lb57, lie ilecidedto take
up his residence in Illinois, to avail himself of its
marvelous farming facilities. He first settled in
Elinwood Township, but after a two j'ears resi-
dence here removed to Elba Township, Knox
County. Six years later lie returned to Elmwood
and has ever since made Ins residence here, and has
always carried on farming. When he came here he
was not in very good circumstances and he was
obliged to rent land for a period of eight years.
At the expiration of thr.t time he purcliased a resi-
dence and eight acres of lanil in Elmwood, but
still continued to rent farms. In the spring of
laT.T. he traded for his present farm. It originally
com[)rised both prairie and limber, and was already-
improved when it came into his hands. Its one
hundred acres are all well tilled, and supjilied with
necessary buihlings, and here he carries on mixed
farming, having standard grades of stock, and is
constantly adding imi)rovements to his place.

Mr. Whitney is connected by marriage with the
Ewalt family, the first pioneers of this township. His
wedding with Miss Mary Campbell was solemnizeil
December 27, lb54, and has been one of exceeding
happiness. Mrs. Whitney's i)arents were Jonas
and Sovena C'ampl>cll,wlio were natives respectively'
of New Hami)sliire and Pennsylvania. They had
seven children, four of whom are still living.
Their daughter. Mrs. Whitney, was born July 28,
1830. Mr. and Mrs. Whitney have been blessed
with a fine family of three children: HoUis, wlio
married May McCann and lives on section 16;
Florence and Frank. All have been given liberal
educational advantages and are graduates of tlic
Elmwood High (School. Frank has been engaged
in the teacher's profession for the past two years,
and Miss Florence also holds a teacher's certificate.

Mr. Whitney's intelligence and character as a
man of honor and sterling integrity give him a high
place in this community. His fellow-citizens, ap-
preciating his wisdom and genuine worth often
call him to public life, and he has well served the
township in various capacities. He is now Trustee
of Elmwood Township, this being his second term
in that office, and he has also been Assessor and
Township Collector for several years. While a

resident of Elmwood City he was a member of the
Council. He is classed with the active politicians
of this vicinitj', and has always lieen associated
with the Republicans. In his early manhood he
supported the AVhig partj', but on the formation
of the Republican party transferred his allegiance
to it and he voted for its first candidate, John C.
Fremont. His sons are also both stanch Republi-
cans, and Hollis has been a delegate to county con-
ventions.

>^A IIARLES W. DAW.SON is a native of this
county and is now classed among the most in-
telligent and progressive farmers and stock-
growers of Rosefield Township, where he is con-
ducting Ills agricultural interests very profitably.
Our subject was born east of Oak Hill, on section
6, this township, August 28, 1845. His father,
Rodinuis, was one of the early pioneers of this part
of the county. He was born near Wlieeling, W.
A'a., Februaiy 23, 1813. He married for his first
wife Mary Ann Johnson, the mother of our subject,
who was also born near that city, her birth taking
place November 17, 1813. She died at the age of
sixty-eight years, closing a well-spent life ami leav-
ing behind her the memor3- of a virtuous and up-
right woman. The father of our suliject married
Am3- Hutchinson for his second wife and lives with
her in Oak Hill. When he came to this county he
settled in this township on an eighty-acre tract of
land which he improved and to which he subse-
quentl}' adiled another forty acres. In 1856, he
moved to Marion County, Iowa, and thence to Ma-
haska County in the same State, where he resided
eight j'ears. He was better pleased with this lo-
cality, however, and at the expiration of that time
he returned to Rosefield Township, and located on
a tract of one hundred and twelve acres of land on
section 7. He acquireil a competence and for the
past three years has lived in retirement in the vil-
lage of Oak Hill. He and his wife are true Christ-
ian people and in them the Methodist Episcopal
Church has two of its best members.

By his marriage with the mother of our subject.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

315

Mr. Dawson became the father of seven children,
nanu'lj': Cornelius, a resident of Farmington, who
served in Company I, Eighteenth Illinois Infantry;
Rebecca; Mary, wife of Sanuiel Finarty; Charles
W. ; James, a resident of Iowa County, Iowa, who
served in the Seventy- seventh Illinois Regiment;
Elizabeth, wife of George Ilanunerbauker, and .Ten-
nie, wife of W. II. Bower.

The subject of this sketch was reared to the life
of a faruKU- and early began to assist his father in
his work. He was given a common-school educa-
tion and at the age of twenty-one began life for
himself as a railroad man, and was thus employed
for the space of one year. He had not attained to
manhood when the war broke out but he watched
its progress witli intense and [latriotic interest and as
soon as hecould.entered the army, enlisting in Com-
pany I, Kighteenth Illinois Regiment, February 28,
1805, and in his service at Little Rock, Ark., proved
himself to possess good soldierly (pialitics. He was
Ininni-ably discharged in the numtli of December,
IHUo, at Pine Bluff.

Since his return from Iowa. Mr. Dawson has
lived ou the homestead where he now resides and
has been busily engaged in general farming and in
stock-raising. He has acquired considerable valn-
alilc propi'i'ty, and is the proprietor of a Hnc farm
of two hundred and forty acres in Dawson County,
Neb. He lives very comfortably on his Rosefield
homestead, which is provided with a substantial
set of buildings, and everything about the place
indicates care and good management.

Mr. Dawson was married March;). 1870, to Mary
A. Bower, who is all to him that a devoted wife
and able heliiraate can be. She is a daughter of
Daniel and Catheiine (Stall) Bower, who came
from Pennsylvania to Rosefield Township, about
185 L They had a family- of three sons and two
daughters. Our subject ami his wife have five
children — Edgar Charles, Nettie O., Hiram Rcuel,
Maggie Alsasia and Myra Edna.

Mr. Dawson's course through life has been hon-
orable to himself and creditable to his native town-
ship, and all who know him will certify to his high
moral character and steady sober habits. He and
bis wife are Christians in the truest sense of the i
word and are zealous in the cause of religion as J

represented in the Methodist Episcopal Church, of
which they are members of high standing. So-
cially, Mr. Dawson is identified with the Ancient
F'ree and Accepted Masons.

AMES M. KELLEY, a veteran of the late
war, has done yeoman service in aid of the
grand work carried on by men of his class
and calling in the upbuilding of this county,
and to-day occupies an honorable position among
the farmers and stock men of Brimfield Townshi|),
where he is possessed of a good farm.

Mr. Kelley is a native of Green County, Pa.,
born February 25, 1828. His parents. George
and Mar}' (Dougherty) Kelley, were natives of
^'irginia, and migrated from there to Maryland,
and thence to Pennsylvania. Hi.s father did gocjd
service as a soldier in the War of 181 2, and fought
in the famous battle of Lundy's Lane.

James Kelley was reared to man's est.ate in
Pennsylvania, and was bred to the life of a farmer,
gaining a thorough knowledge of his calling. Mis
educational advantages were limited, hut by much
reading and observation he has become a well-in-
formed man. He was in life's prime when the war
broke out, and with pati'iotism worthy of the son
of an old soldier, he eidisted in the fall of 1861,
having detcu-mined to do his share in suppressing
the rebellion and saving the LInion, He became a
member of Company F, First Penns3'lvania Cav-
alry, which subsequently formed a |)art of the
Army of the Potomac, and he was actively en-
gaged with his regiment, some three months. A
part of the time the man\' hardships and piivations
that he was called upon to endure, told so gre.-itl}'
on his health, that he was obliged to be in the hos-
pital for treatment. He remained in the service,
however, nearly a year, and in 1 802 was hon(^rably
discharged. f

The coming of oui' subject to this county in the
fall of 18(12, was an important turning point in his
life. The first two Aears of his stay here he worked
on a farm by the month for M. Wiley, in Elmwood

316

rORTRAlT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Tuniisliip. He \y.as subsequently employer! bj^ the
month for tliree 3'ears, and by frugality and bard
lal)or earned and saved up money until he was en-
abled to marry and establish a home for himself.
After marriage, for some years he farmed as a
renter, and then bought the farm he now owns, and
settled thereon in the S|iring of 1874. and has lived
here continuousl.y since. His farm is ver3- plcas-
a'ltly located, the soil is exceptionally fertile, and
frcini it he garners plenteous harvests. He has its
eighty acres well tilled, and has a neat set of build-
ings, and everthins about the place is in a good
condition.

Mr. Kelley and Miss Mary M. Patterson, united
their lives and fortunes December 31 , 18C1). One
son has been born of their pleasant wedded life,
whom they have named Frank. .lanuary 26, 1870,
is the date of his birth. Jlrs. Kelle}" is 3 native of
Preble County. Ohio, born February 14, 1835, to
John and Sarah Patterson. She is a sister of John
M. Patterson, of Brimfield Township, whoso biog-
raphy appears in this volume. She came to this
county with her parents when she was in her eight-
eenth year. The surrounding country was theu
open prairie, there being not many settlements here
and she has been an interested witness of much of
the growth of the county.

The life which our subject has led, is creditable
to himself, and, as we have seen, has been useful to
his ado|itod township. He and his wife have so
conducted themselves in their relations with all
about them, that none know them but to esteem
them. Mr. Kelley is a sincere believer in the policy
of the Democratic part}-, and gives it his hearty
support. All plans for forwarding the material or
social interests of the township, lind favor with
him.

<*^ IfelLLIAM ANDREW, Postmaster of Chase
\&J// Post-otHce, Millbrook Township, occupies
\^^J a leading position in his community and
is identified both with the agricultural and mer-
cantile interests of this county. Mr. Andrew is a
native of England and was born in Devonshire,
June 29, 1828. His parents were Thomas and

Eliza (Jones) Andrew, who were likewise of Eng-
lish birth and antecedents. When he was ten
years old he accompanied his father and mother
to America, taking passage at Liverpool on a sail-
ing-vessel, and after a voyage of about eight
weeks landed in the citj' of New York. Thej- went
directly from there to Erie County, Ohio, and set-
tled amcmg its pioneers, and they bore an honor-
able part in its development. Our subject passed
the remaining years of his boyhood and the open-
ing 3-cars of his manhood in that part of the coun-
try. He had but little schooling as the educational
advantages were then somewhat limited, but in the
parental home good principles were early instilled
into his mind and he acquired industrious habits,
which have been of great use to him in his after
career.

In 18;)5, when in the prime and vigor of life, he
came to this county to take advantage of its won-
derful agricultural resources, and for some three
years was engaged in farming as a renter in Mill-
bi-ook Township. At the expiration of that time
he bought a farm of his own in this t(.)wnslnp and
was actively engaged in its im|)rovement until the
fall of 1888, and in the meantime had developed
his property, comprising one hundred and twenty
acres of very productive land, into one of the best
regulated and best tilled farms in all the region
around, placing uiiou it a good class of buildings,
antl suppl3'ing it with am])le machinery for all the
necessar3' operations in conducting farming. \Vhen
he abandoned the cultivation of the soil he estab-
lished himself in the mercantile business at Chase,
and now has here a well-ai)i)ointed and conveni-
entlN' .irranged store, well stocked with general
merchandise, and the substantial building in which
he carries on his trade is of ample dimensions,
being 20x40 feet. He has built up quite an ex-
tensive trade, partl3- on account of his honorable
dealings, as his customers have come to learn that
that they may place implicit reliance on his word
and judgment. He is gifted with a good facult3'
of business, is methodical in his work, and makes
it a jKjint to do with others as he would be done
b3'. In connection with his mercantile business,
he has charge of the post-office at Chase, receiving
his appointment as Postmaster Jul3' IC. 1889. and

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

31!)

he is found to he llie riglit man in the right place,
his geninl nnd friendly mnnner making him well
liked by tlie pnlilio in general.

The marriage of our sulijccl wilh Mary Morse,
a native of England, took place in Ohio in 18."j.3,
and has been a felicitous and hnppy one, which
has been blessed to them by the birth of four chil-
dren, of whom two are living: Mary A., wife of
Abraham Rarick, of Miilbrook Township; and
Eva, wife of II. W. Crone, of Miilbrook Township.
The greatest sorrow of Mr. and Mrs. Andrew's
wedded life has been in tlic deatii of their daugh-
ter, Alice, and their son, William.

Mr. Andrew is a self made man in the l)est
sense of the term, and has been successful in a
career in which he started out with no adventi-
tious aids of fortune and name, and has gairied a
high position among the solid, reputable men
of this community. He is broad and sensible in
his views and in })olilics is inclined to be inde-
licndcnt, though favoring the Republican party.
He is a member in high standing of the iSIethodist
Episcopal Church, at Elmore, is serving as Trus-
tee of the same, and carries his religion into the
every day affairs of life.

-^^-

OUROW P. REED, the present Supervisor of
Brimlield Tinvnship, is one of Iheoklest set-
k\ tiers in the neighborhood and one who has
been an eye witness of much of the growth
of the county during the half century just past.
He has shared to a considerable extent in the work
of development as a member of farming commu-
nities, and while aiding thus has advanced his own
financial interests and become the owner of an
excellent piece of property. His estate consists
of two hundred and ten acres of well culti-
vated land on section 3, the same being marked
with a complete line of good buildings and the va-
rious useful accom|)animents of a well-regulated
fai ni. In the accumulation of his projierty, in the
careful rearing of his children, and in all which has
pertained to his interests since his marriage, he has
been ably assisted by his worthy wife, who now

shares with him the fruits of their inilustrj- and
prudence.

Mr. Reed is a native of this county, having lieon
born in Peoria, June 11), 1840. His parents were
George W. and Joannah (Patterson) Reed, natives
of \'irginia and I'ennsylvania, respectively. The
father was a carpenter and joiner who, having lo-
cated in Peoria about 18.'54,was there married, the
lad}' of his choice having preceded him to that
city a short time. The famil}' of the good couple
consisted of six children, of whom onr subject is
the second. The others are Mary and Thomas, wlio
reside in Kansas; Joannah, wife of Joseph Morri-
son, of Ohio; Louisa, jNIrs. Joseph Langlois, who
also lives in Kansas, and George, deceased. The
fatlier entered into rest in 1849, the mother surviv-
ing until 1857.

The subject of this notice was reared in Peoria
until about thirteen years of age, and after tlie
death of his father, which occurred when he was
nine years old, had soon to begin to assist his
mother. He attended the common schools of the
city, in which his advantages were not equal to
those now afforded in that thriving place, but such
as they were, he improved them as long as he was
able to attend school, and by self etfort has added
to the knowledge then obtained. About the time
that he entered his teens he began working on a
farm, receiving during the summer ^6 per month
and his board. Until 1802 he was employed mainly
as a farm hand, then renting land he worked for
himself until his enlistment in the Union Army.

On the nth of February, 1805, Mr. Reed be-
came a private in Comi)any F, One Hundred and
Forty -eighih Illinois Infantry, serving until Sep-
tember 22, following, when he was discharged at
Springfield, 111. During his army life he had been
engaged in guard duty on the Nashville & Chatta-
nooga Railroad. At its expiration he returned to
Peoria County- where, the following year, he was
married to Miss Jane A. Whittaker, the date of the
ceremony being February 22, 1800. During that
year the couple settled on a farm which is now^ in-
cluded in their present place of residence, where
they have labored assiduously in developing their
land and making of their home an abode of peace
and plenty. For a short time, during 1861, Mr,

320

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

Reed tilled the soil in Missouri, but with that ex-
ception and tlie time devoted to his country's cause
he has lived in Peoria County.

The wife of our subject was boni in County
Queens, Ireland, being a daughter of John C. and
Susan (Carter) Whittaker, who were likewise na-
tives of the Emerald Isle. Her union with our
subject has been productive to them of twelve
children, three of whom are deceased. The surviv-
ors are: George W., Susan A., .Toannah L., Nettie
J., Lottie B., Ella O., Henry A., Clara E., and
Margaretta P. Susan A. is now the wife of George
A. Pursell, of Elm wood; George W. married Mmy
M. Moore, of Millbrook Township.

Mr. Reed was appointed to fill a vacancy" as Su-
pervisor of BrimBcld Township in 1882, and since
that time has been annually' elected to the position.
He has previously acted as Commissioner of High-
ways. He is a member of the Lodge of Modern
Woodmen at Brimfield,aud of G. L. Fort Post, No.
177, G. A. R., in the same place. It is scarcely
necessary to say that he and his wife are respected
for the uprightness of their lives and the part which
they have borne in the progress of this section of
country. In politics he identifies himself with the
Republican party.

The attention of the reader is invited to a litho-
graphic portrait of Mr. Reed, which is presented on
anothir page of this volume.

,'OHN S. POTTER. The smaller towns of
this county contain many beautiful homes,
which if less preteutious than some in the
(^JA/ large cities, are pleasing in design, substan-
tial in construction, and so surrounded bj' evidences
of order and good taste, as to prove very attract-
ive to the passer-by. who at once concludes that
their owners are people of refinement. Such a
dwelling is that occupied by the widow of the late
John S. Potter, who erected the house, fitted it up
for his family, and gave to them all the comforts
that his financial success warranted.

The gentleman whose name introduces this
SKCtch, was born in Allegany County, N. Y., July

6, 1834, being the younger of two children born to
Asa C. and Lucy (Eldred) Potter, the parents also
being natives of the Empire State. Thither they
removed in 1850, settling in Fulton County, 111.,
near Farmington. but afterward removing to Akron
Township, this county. The wife and mother still
survives at an advanced age, but the husband and
father breathed his last April 13, 1883. Our sub-
ject received a part of his education in his native
State, completing it after his removal to the West,
aud .adopting the occupation of farming, in which
he occupied himself for a number of years.

In Kuoxville, Knox County, July 17, 1858. Mr.
Potter was united in marri.age with Miss Ellen M.
Brassfield, a lady of noble and generous nature, in
whom he found a fitting companion. After their
marriage they^ settled in Akron Township, residing
there until December, 1883, with the exception of
one year, during which they lived in Jit. Holly.
At the date named they removed to Dunlap, where
Mr. Potter erected his fine dwelling, and was en-
gaged in the grain and stock business until his death.
That sad event took place August 8, 1889, remov-
ing from the town, one of its best and most public-
spirited citizens. In addition to his town property.
Mr. Potter left an estate of some eight hundred
acres of fine land. He voted the Democratic ticket,
ever taking an active part in political affairs, and
keeping well informed regarding the issues of the
day. For several years he served as Township Su-
pervisor, performing his duties satisfactorily. He
was also Assessor and Collector of the township
at different times. He was highly respected, and
sincerely mourned by a large circle of friends when
called hence.

Jlrs. Potter is the third child of Michael and
Ruth (Freeman) Brassfield. having one brother and
two sisters. Her parents were born in North Caro-
lina, but shortly after their marriage settled in
Parke County, Ind., whence they came hither about
1839. For a time they resided in Radnor Town-
shio this county, but subsequently made their home
in Fulton County, where the father died in 1857.
Mrs. Brassfield is still living, now quite aged.
Their daughter. Ellen M., was born near Farming-
ton. Fulton County. Jlay 3, 1841, remaining an
inmate of the parental home until her marriage to

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALKUM.

321

0111' siibjecl, and acquiiing niueh useful knowledge,
liolii of books and of home duties. She is a mem-
ber of the Methodist Episcopal C'hureh, and one
who eanicslly endeavors to make her life eorn^s
pond with the principles of her religious belief.

The fine family of our subject and bis good wife
comprises eight children, several of whom are set-
tled in homes of their own : Nettie L. married Mor-
ton B. Vars; Devillo M. married Miss Ella Gallup;
Asa E. Won for his wife iliss Helena Myer; Frank
married ]Miss Lydia Shane; Ida E. is the wife of
William Myer; Charlie died when a litllc more than
seven years old; and Noel J. when about three
years of age; Lottie R. is unmarried, assisting her
mother in the hospitable management of the home,
which is a gathering place for the best society of
the town.

J^HOMAS MATHERS. More than three-
score and six years ago there was born in
the humble home of a i)ioueer family in
Oliioa son, who grew to a sturdy manliood amid
the scenes of the primeval forests and wild prairies
of that State. His social and educational advantages
were of the primitive order, and he had to begin
the battle of life early. He was well fortified for
the struggle, however, as the privations and sacri-
fices of the people of a newly settled eountr}' had
hardened and strengthened • him for the conflict,
fitted him for the work he had to do, and have en-
abled him to attain a high position among the
wealthy and substantial farmers and stock- raisers
of Peoria County, and in him we have a worthy
subject for representation in this Biographical
Aluu.m. He is one of the largest landowners in
Millbrook Township, having a valuable farm on
section 10, whose broad, well-cultivated fields yield
rich harvests. The improvements that he has
placed upon it are of a substantial order, and his
extensive agricultural interests net hiin a good in-
come.

Mr. Mathers was born in Washington County,
Ohio. .June 10, 1824, a son of William and Sarah
(McDonnell) Mathers, who were early settlers of

the BiK-keye State, having gone there from Vir-
ginia, tiieir native State. Our subject passed his
youth and early manhood in Dliio, having but lim-
ited educational advantages, l)ut acquiri!ig a sound
practical knowledge of farming that has been of
great benefit to him in his after years. When he
was sixteeu years old he had the misfortune to
lose his father, and when about eighteen years
of age, he started out in the world on his own ac-
count.

In 1853, Mr. Matliers came to Hliuois to invest
his earnings in land, shrewdly foreseeing that this
State was to be tlie paradise for a wide-awake
enterprising farmer. He purchased eighty acres of
land in Millbrook Township, paying $10 an acre
for it, and afterwards brought his family, then
consisting of his wife and two children, to this
county from Ohio, performing the journey with
one team and a wagon, camping by the wayside at
night, and in twent^'-two days arriving at their
destination. In 1.S64, he settled on his present
farm, which was then without cultivation or im-
provement. By hard and untiring labor he has
brought it to its [jresent condition and its five
hundred and eighty-five acres of land to-day con-
stitute one of the most desirable and i)roductive
farms in the neighborhood. He was a poor man
when he came here, and it is only by the exercise
of keen, far seeing judgment and superior man-
agetnent that he has been enabled to accumulate
this valuable property.

For forty years our subject has had the active
co-operation of a helpful, capable wife, to whom he
was married March 11, 1850. Mrs. Mathers'
maiden name was Anne Shuttlcsworth, and she was
born in Washington County, Ohio. Her marriage
with our subject has been [iroductive of three chil-
dren, namel3' : Boone, a resident of Millbrook
Township; Adeline, wife of John F. Kidder, of
Monica, 111.; and LaFayette, of Millbrook Town-
ship, all of whom are well settled in life and are
useful citizens.

Mr. Mathers is well-known and greatly respected
for his honesty and integrity in business, and pos-
sesses the confidence and good will of his neighbors
and many friends. Millbrook Township is indebted
to him for what he has done in developing its re-

322

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

sources and he is valued as one of its most useful
citizens, wlio favors all tilings tliattend to advance
its prosperity. In politics lie is a sturdy Democrat
and gives his party generous support. He has
served as Highway Commissioner of Millbrook
Tovirnship for three years, and is found to )ie one of
the most eflicient men who has ever held that im-
portant (ilHce.

m^^^M

fLBEKT A. M. MARSHALL. In tlie agri-
cultural districts of Jubilee Towushl|), no
more piominent or useful man can be found
than he with whose name we introduce tliis sketch.
He comes of a fine New England family of Eng-
lish descent, has inlierited an abundance of energy,
quickness of perception and firmness of principle,
to which manv sterling traits have been added by
example and training. He began his active life at
an early age, the years which arc spent by ninny in
study and recreation having been devoted by him
to hard work in a coni|iaratively new country. He
takes great delight in all which jiertains to country
life, from his childhood having enjoyed much
which would prove irksome to others. The sight
of green things growing fills him with pleasure, not
due alone to his success in securing that end', but
to his artistic iierceptions and genuine love of na-
ture.

Our subject is a direct descendant of John Mar-
shall, a member of the Colonial Army, who, having
been taken prisoner by the iMiglish, was held in a
prison ship off New York Harbor three months.
Those familiar with the history' of that period know
that this confinement was one from wliifh few
escaped alive. The ixarty of which Mr. Marshall
made one were fed on beans which were cooked in
copper kettles, thus endangering the lives of all
who partook of them. Thirteen of the numlier at
last jum()cd overboard, only three of them reach-
ing shore and making their way back to their
homes. Mr. Marshall was one of these, and in later
years liecame well-to-do.

The next in the direct line of descent was Elijah

Marshall, born in Roxbury, Mass., who bought a
farm in his native State, but the title proving de-
fective, accompanied a colony' to Vermont. They
located on new land in a heavily' timbered region
where he obtained his financial start by making
black salt and potash. He carried on an extensive
dairj' business, owning one hundred and twent}'-five
cows and three hundred acres of land. His son,
Marvin, the father of oursuliject, was born at Ches-
ter, Vt., and reared on a farm. When grown to
manhood he settled in Greene County, N. Y., buy-
ing forty acres of land on the Hudson, where he
engaged in the manufacture of brick. For years
he made a million and a half of brick per annum,
sending them by boat to New York City where he
received $2.50 per thousand.

For a year Marvin Marshall lield a |)Osition as
overseer of a brick yard in Rhode Island, and a few
months after his return to the East made up his
mind to become a farmer .and to locate in the Prairie
Slate. He therefore embarked with his family on
the Hudson River, and upon reaching Troy took
the cars to Buffalo, embarked upon a steamer for
Toledo, and there took the canal for LaFayette,
Iiid. The iiarty then boarded the stage which con-
veyed them to Olney, 111., whence with a prairie
schooner they completed their journey to Peoria
wlicre they arrived on Sunday morning August 2,
1850. The3' had spent four weeks in the neighbor-
hood of Olney, but Mr. Marshall did not like it
tliere and so came on to Peoria County. From the
county seat they drove out to the home of Cyrus
Brooks at Brimfield, shortly afterward locating on
land in Jubilee Township.

Mv. Marshall had but 125 when his family was
located and for some time he had a hard struggle
to keep the wolf from the door. He finally bought
eighty acres of land on section ,'50, to which he
.added as his circumstances would allow until his
landed estate amounted to four hundred acres.
When sixty-two years old he divided this among
his heirs, and retiring to Brimfield, spent the re-
mainder of his life in quiet comfort. He breathed
his l.ast June 4, 1883, at the age of seventy-three
years, during the Last three of which he was an in-
valid.

lie was originally a member of the Whig party,

PORTRAIT AND BIOaRAPHICAL ALBUM.

523

later aRt'iniblicaii of tUc strongest t\-pe, and (hiring
slavery days an Abolitionist of the deepest dye.
Tlie needs of liis family was all that prevented his
bearing arms daring the Civil War. He became a
Captain in the Now York Militia when twenty-five
years old. He hail held nearly every township
office excei>t Supervisor and Justice of the Peace.
Wide-awake in every respect, he never became dis-
couraged, but was always confident that behind the
cloud was the sun still shining. He was converted
in 1851, and until his death was a devout member
of the Baptist Church.

The mother of our subject was known in her
girlhood as Lois Bruce. She was born in Chester,
Vt., of which her father, the Rev. Joseph Bruce,
was also a native. He attended school but six
months in his life, became a self-made man, and en-
tering the Baptist ministry did efHcient work as a
Ruling Elder until his death. He owned a small
place where he found rest during the interims of
his ministerial labors. lie was of Scotch descent.
After the death of her husband, the mother of our
subject sold the residence in Brimfield, went to
lUica, Neb., and remained there about tvvo years.
She then returned to IJrim field and after a time,
being nearly blind, became an inmate of the home
of our subjec't, remaining with him until her death.
She breathed her last June 25, 1886, at the age of
seventy-three years, cheered in her passage through
the dark valley by the faith of the Baptist Church,
with which she had been identified since the age of
sixteen years.

The parental family consisted of ton children, six
of whom reached j'ears of maturity, the oldest ^>{
these being our subject. The second was Reuben
H., who fell at Kenesaw Mountain. The third was
James N., now living in Iroquois County; Charles
E. is living in Fillmore County, Neb.; Cassius M.,
in Chase County, Neb., and Mrs. Ellen Ilockenbary
in Hamilton County, Neb. Reuben enlisted in
1862 in the Eighty-sixth Illinois Infantry, and
served faithfully until jjierced through the heart
by an enemy's ball. James enlisted in 1863, when
but seventeen years old, in the Eleventh Illinois
Cavalry, and is now an invalid from disease con-
tracted in the service.

The gentleman with whose name this skeloh is

introduced was born in the village of Coxsackie,
(5reene County, N. Y., on the banks of the Hud-
sou, May 3, 1838. llo was reared in the village
with the privilege of attending good sch(jols during
a greater part of the year until he was twelve 3'oars
old, wlion the family came West. After reaching
Illinois his schooling amounted to but three months
per year. He was put to work immediately upon
his arrival, learning to drive oxen,gnidc the break-
ing plow, and do other man's work during the years
of hard times which were made more trying to the
family by reason of botli father and mother being
sick the first year. He learned to turn his hand to
anything which would aid in the improvement of
the farm and in the family resources, remaining
under the parental roof until twenty-fouryears old,
although at the age of twentj'-one he began work-
ing for himself.

After having worked for wages a year, yowng
Marshall rented land of his father until his m.ar-
riage which occurred in Jubilee Township, in Au-
gust, 1862. Ho then bought and located on eighty
acres on section 30, which comprises a part of his
present estate. He built a comfortable dwelling,
made various improvements, and in the course of
time had a good farm, where once there had been
an undeveloped tract. Mrs. Marshall, a native of
Massachusetts, who bore the maiden nanu! of N.ancy
S. Sweet, was taken ill six mouths after marriage
and aft,er almost four 3'ears of suffering entered into
rest in June, 1866. At her death Mr. Marshall was
$1,100 in debt, but continued perseverance and un-
remitting industry enabled him to discharge his
obligations, and as years passed by become the pos-
sessor of more land with all the accompanying con-
veniences.

He now owns one hundred and forty acres on
section 32, in addition to his original tract,together
with nine acres in Rosefield Township. All is well
improved, enclosed and divided by good fences,
much hedge being used for this purpose. He di-
vides his attention between stock and grain, the
produce of the soil being of excellent quality and
above the average in quantity, while the stock arc
full-blooded Poland-China hogs, good grades of
Miort-horn and Durliam cattle, and good grades of
horses. Mr. i\Iarsliall has been fortunate in his

324

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

dealings in swine, by wiiicli he has made quite a
good deal of mone}-.

Mr. Marshall contr.i.cted a second matrimonial
alliance January 1. 1867, his bride being Miss Ab-
bie R. Willard. and the marriage rites celebrated at
the residence of Deacon Hathaway, in Jubilee
Township. The bride was born in this township,
being a daughter of Alpheus and Maria (Sabin)
Willard, the former an earl^' settler here, who came
from Rockingham, Yt. He died in India some
\ears since. His widow, a native of Vermont, now
lives in Farminglon, Fulton County. By his first
union Mr. ilarshall is the fatlier of one son, Ruben
II.. who works for himself, but lives at home. The
second union has tieen iiroductive of eight children,
viz: Birdie A,, Cora M., Ernest \V., William A.,
Harry E., Janie McC, Nellie M. and Stella. Birdie
and Cora are teachers, both being graduates of
Brimfield .^chools.

For twenty-five }'ears Mr. Marshall has served as
School Director. He votes the straight Republi-
can ticket, has been delegate to.count}' conventions
and member of the Central Committee. He is iden-
tified with the Baptist Church at Brimfield. in which
he has been Trustee and Superintendent of the
Sunday-school. When the edifice in which the so-
cietj- worships was contemplated, he spent about
four months in soliciting and collecting funds, him-
self giving more money than anj' otiier member,
and acting ,as a member of the building committee.
For the jiast decade he has had poor health and h.as
therefore been obliged to abandon to some extent,
tlie active religious and other public work in which
lie has ever taken such delight.

<^f^)pSON HARKNESS. This name will be at
^ once recognized .as that of an almost life-
^ long resident of f^lmwood Township — one
who from early boyhood has borne a part in the
work which has made of this section one of the
finest agricultural regions in the State. Ilis father.
Daniel Harkness, a native of Massachusetts, is well
remembered bj' the older settlers here, among whom
he began his labors in 1840. surviving to realize a

good reward for the industry and indomitable cour-
age which led him from poverty to a condition of
comfort. Inheriting the sturdy qualities for which
both father and mother gained deep respect, it is
not to be wondered at that our subject discharges
well his duties in life, and is held in good repute
throughout this region.

The father of our subject, after his marriage,
made his home in Pennsylvania for some 3"ears. th.at
State having been the residence of himself and wife
for some years prior to their union. In 1830. he
and his brother Isa.ac walked fi-om the Ke3'stone
State to Peoria, III., that being their first visit to
the region which was destined to become the scene
of their efflcient labors. After a short .sojourn they
returned to the Keystone State, from which Daniel
Harkness removed his famih' by wagon, in 1840.
A location was secured on section 32, Elm wood
Township, where the father breathed his last, in
December, 1867. He had seven children, five of
whom arc now living.

The mother of our subject is still living, m.aking
her home with the son of whom we write. She w.as
born in Halifax, Vt , December 21, 1804, and is
tlierefore in her eighty-sixth year. Her maiden
name was Eliza Scott, her p.arents being Asahel and
Elizabeth (Peek) Scott, the former of whom was
born in AVindom, Vt., July 2. 1768. and the latter
in New Hampsliire, in 1772. .Mr. and Mrs. Scott
lived in theGreen Mountain State until 1810, when
they removed to Pennsylvania, where the husband
died in 1823. and the wife in 1847. Of the eight
children born to them, the only survivor is Mrs.
Harkness, who still enjoys quite good health, but
is crippled.

From his third year the subject of this notice
has lived in Elmwood Township. He was born in
Pennsylvania June 24, 1843, having a twin brother,
Edwin, now Assessor of Elmwood Township. As
before stated, the parents were poor, consequently'
the boys obtained but a common school education,
and were early taught to avail themselves of every
opportunitj- to assist in securing a capital with
which to begin life when thej' had grown to man-
hood. The twin brothers picked wild lilackberries
and sold them for fifty cents, with which they
bought n young pig, and had another given them

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

325

b3' their uncle, Ben Dnell. They ti-arlerl tliem off,
and finally when our subject came of age, he hart
tliree horses as the result of his siiare of the black-
berries.

After the death of his father, our sultject took
charge of the home farm upon which he still makes
his abode. lie now has two hundred and three
acres of land in a body, a portion of which is left
to hardwood timber growth, while a large amount
is devoted to pasturage, he being quite extensively
interested in stock-raisiug. Sixty acres are under
cultivation, the diversified crops equalling in qual-
it}- and quantity per acre, any to be found in this
section. The stock is all of good grades, the cattle
being Herefords, of seventh-eighth blood. This
herd runs from thirty to ninety, at the head being
a grand specimen of the breed, an imported animal
weighing seventeen hundred pounds. Mr. Hark-
ness is fully convinced that it pays to market beef
of high grades. He raises about fourteen head of
horses, and seventy-five to one hundred hogs per
year.

The residence now occupied bj' the Harkness fam-
ilj', was built in 1866. It is a comfortable and suf-
ficiently commodious dwelling, and under the
charge of an efficient housekeeper and woman of
taste, presents an attractive and homelike ap|)ear-
ance. It is verj- different from the home occupied
by our subject at the time of the building of the
Chicago. Burlington & Quinc\' Railroad through
tills township. His father's family then occupied
a log house, 12x14 feet, having but two rooms, one
above and one below. lu addition to sheltering
the family, it was utilized as a boarding place for
tliirteen of the railroad men, the parents desiring
to add to tlieir income in every possible way. Be-
sides his land in this township, our subject also
owns an imitroved tract in Nebraska.

Tiie trials and successes, joys and sorrows, of Mr.
Harkness have been shared since 1871, by a lad}'
who was former!}' known as Miss Anna Kightlinger.
She is a daughter of John Kightlinger. a native of
Pennsylvania, whose father was one of the pioneers
of Elba Township, Knox County. Her mother,
Martha Jane Smith, was born in Richland Count}',
Ohio, and came to Illinois in 1837, with her father,
lehabod Smith. The parents of Mrs. Harkness

finally settled in Elmwood Township, where the
mother died January 8, 1859, and the father Au-
gust !), 1862. They had four children, two yet
living. Mrs. Harkness w.as born Februarj- 4, 1852,
receiving a common-school education, and devel-
oping a character which exerts an influence in what-
ever society she m.ay be. She and her husband are
the parents of two children, but have been bereft
of both b}' the hand of death.

Mr. Haikness has been Director in his school dis-
trict, and Trustee of Klmwood Township, in these
stations, as in a private capacity, doing all that
in him lies to advance the best interests of the peo-
ple. He is one of those who believe that the elect-
ive franchise should not be neglected by an}- loyal
citizen, and he never fails to deposit his vote,
whicii is given to the support of Republican can-
didates and principles.

^ ^HE-B-

\I/,^^ ENRY R. GERDES, senior member of the
)jl firm of Gerdes & Barton, of Bartonville,
.^y^ and also Postmaster of the village, is one of
the best educated and most upright of its
citizens. He is a son of R. H. and Trinke Gerdes,
of Limestone Township, in which he was born No-
vember 29, 1863. He received his education in
the district schools, and at the age of eighteen
years went to t.ake a position in a grocery store,
which he held about four years, during that time
attending a business college at night. His quick-
ness of apprehension and ardent desire to become
well fitted for the battle of life, had given him a
better understanding of those branches usually
found in the curriculum of the public schools than
is sometimes the case. The determination which
led him to devote his evenings to study rather than
to the sports generally indulged in by youth, has
accompanied him in his career as a business man,
and has been one of the most important factors in
his success.

After the period mentioned, Mr. Geides entered
the employ of Robert Hill, in Bartonville, and at
the death of his employer, two years later, formed

326

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALP,UM.

.1 partnership with Williaui W. Harton.- The con-
nection began March 29, 1886, since which time
the business of the firm has been steadily increas-
ing, liaving now grown to such proportions as to
require the almost constant labors of four salesmen.
Messrs. Gerdes & Barton have now a fine stock of
all the goods needed to supply the countr3- trade,
as well as to gratify the wishes of the residents in
the town. Mr. Gerdes attend.? very strictly to his
l)usincss interests, in which he displays a creditable
amount of financial ability, while the reputation of
the lirm for honorable and straightforward de.al-
ings in ever}' transaction is unimpeachable.

Under Cleveland's administration Mr. Gerdes
was appointed Postmaster, and beginning the du-
ties of the office on New Year's da}', 1886, while
still clerking for Mr. Ilill, he has continued them
since that time. He belongs to the Knights of La-
l)or, in whose workings he takes an active part. He
is the eldest of seven children, of whom the other
survivors are: Tobias, Emma, George and Benja-
min. Emma is the wife of AVill Wolfsclilag. The
brothers and sister have each received good educa-
tions in both German and English, it having been
a [iractice of their parents to send them to school
about twelve months in a year. Parents and chil-
dren belong to the Lutheran Church, and consist-
ently follow the teachings of their faith.

The father of our subject was born in Hanover,
Germany, October 23, 1836, and received his edu-
cation in the schools of his own laud. "When twentj'-
four years of age he sailed from the Fatherland to
the Inited States, his port of entr}' being Balti-
more, in which he landed just at the time the first
Northern troops reached that city on their waj- to
the seat of war. Ft. (Sumter having just been fired
upon. The emigrants were detained a day on ac-
count of the fighting in the Monumental Citj-, but
immediately thereafter Mr. Gerdes came on to Peo-
ria County, 111. He bought land where he now
lives, and has devoted his attention to horticulture,
taking his fruit to the Peoria market. He has
twelve acres of small fruits, where during the sea-
son a dozen fruit pickers find employment. He
has lield the ofifice of Road Commissioner, and like
his son, our subject, belongs to the Democratic
part}'. He and his wife are looked upon as honest,

industrious and frugal citizens, who are ever read}'
to assist those in need, and bear a part in any good
work which may be instituted in the noighbor-
liood.

^ ETER C'AHILL is one of the most agreea-
)j ble, hospitable and enterprising men of
r^ the count}', and is in cciusequence one of
its most iiopular citizens. He resides in a
pleasant and comfortable dwelling on section 30,
Jubilee Township, where he is always glad to re-
ceive old friends or make the acquaintance of new
ones. His ability and popularity is attested by the
fact that he has been chosen Chairm.an of the
County Hoard of Supervisors, and it is universall}
conceded that he is the right man in the right place.
Our subject is a native of Ireland, having been
born in that country February 12, 1843. in County
Mealh. His father was a native of County Jleatii,
Ireland, where he followed the occupation of farm-
ing until his death when our subject was a child
of four years. The mother, Catherine McDonnell,
also a native of County Meath, was a daughter of
Alex McDonnell, a son of the Emerald Isle, wliere
he engaged in agricultural pursuits until his de-
parture for the shores of America in 1847. He
accompanied his daughter, the mother of our sub-
ject, but did not long survive the change, dying the
first summer he S[)ent in this country at his new
home in Peoria Countv. Following the death of
her husband the mother of our subject emigrated
to America, bringing with her the family of three
children. The trip was made from Liverpool to
New Orleans in a sailing vessel and occupied nine
weeks, but the tedious voyage did not dampen their
ardor and they were soon on their way to Peoria
yia the Mississippi. Upon arriving in the county
she went to her brother in Millbrook Township,
where she remained until the next fall when she
bought one hundred and ten acres of land on sec-
tion 30, Jubilee Towushii), for *5 per acre, upon
which she located. As the farm was improved she
was enabled to begin farming oper.ations at once,
and by industry was able to make a success of her
life work and retire in old age from active duty to

^■

-^^■>fe

^yO?' Z^/U/yc^i^ /^.^^5^^^/i^t^

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

329

the home of her son, our subject, who was then in
fh.ar<;e of the place, wherein she finally departed
from the duties of this life and entered upon the
future one January 26, 1888, at tlie age of seventy-
seven years. She was a devout member of the
Catholic Church and was a consistent Ciiristian
who made many friends by hor kind deeds and
loving words.

EDWIN M. COLBURN, M. D. With perhaps
one exception the late Edwin M. Colburn
1 was undoubtedly better known and exerted

a more powerful influence than anj- other resident
Peoria ever had. His death, which took [)laco May
29, 1890, awoke expressions of universal sorrow,
not only .-iniong those who knowing, loved him,
but from all who beheld the influence of his spot-
less life upon the community. Few men whom the
world has known combined in so just a proportion
the qualities which we include in the word "{.'entle-
man," — in the best sense of that term — sincerity,
tenderness, courage and modesty. He was without
reproach in his personal and domestic relations;
wise and prudent in the conduct of his professional
business, just and generous in all business transac-
tions, a steadf.ast friend and a safe counselor. He
was a true lover and disciple of science, in which
his attainments were neither few nor small. That
he did not rise to more than local eminence was
owing to the circumstances of his life.

Dr. Colburn was of Puritan ancestry, former
generations having resided in Connecticut. He
was born in Rome, N. Y., September L3, 1813,
early in life showed signs of unusual brilliancj-,
and although reared as a merchant, in early man-
hood determined to devote himself to a pi'ofessional
career. Going to Buffalo, N. Y., he was graduated
from the Jledical College in 1837, and removing to
Bloomington, 111., began the practice which he con-
tinued for more than half a centurv. His talents
soon won for him a high place, not only in medical
practice, but in Ihe fields of literature and science.
He was a close and constant student, who, by a long
and careful sludv of the gieat authors, both ancient

and modern, acquired a broad literary culture, and
his 3'ears were pioliflc in scientific research. In
18.50 he removed to Peoria, continuing his practice
until disabled by a fall which developed into
progressive paraljsis and eventually caused his
decease.

Dr. Colburn was the leading siiirit of the Peoria
Scientific Association and for seven ^-ears its Presi-
dent. He gave the society the benefit of his knowl-
edge, being a constant source of information to his
co-workers. The " great object of his life was to
arrive at the real truth of things, just as God made
it, and to him all truth was sacred, whether of the
earth, of the air, or of the sky." His fame as a
scientist was such as to win for him an honorary
fellowship in the Association for the Advancement
of Science and in the American Academy of Social
and Political Science, of Philadelphia. His life
was a model for the 3'oung men, the highest honor
that can be paid to his memorj' being to emulate
his wisdom, purity and reverential faith.

At a meeting of the medical profession of Peoria,
Majr 31, 1890, the following resolutions were
adopted: "Whereas, our old friend and co-laborer,
Dr. E. M. Colburn, has departed this life, therefore.
Resolved, That in his demise the medical profession
has lost one of its oldest and most distinguished
members — one who labored faithfully and well and
was an ornament to the profession during a period
of over fifty years. Resolved, That the profession
has lost one who always had its good at heart and
maintained its dignity and honor. Resolved, That
in his demise the sick have lost one of their kindest
and truest friends — one who was ever ready to sac-
rifice his personal comfort to give them the most
alile counsel and to sympathize with them in their
afflictions. Resolved, That Peoria has lost one of its
bestcitizens,oneof its most genial and dignified gen-
tlemen — one who for forty years has been a leading
member of society, whose integrity was unimpeach-
able and whose character was unsoiled. Resolved,
That we tender to his family our heartfelt sympa-
thy in this their great bereavement."

At the regular monthly executive session of the
Scientific Association soon after the death of Dr.
Colburn, no formal program was prepared, no
stereotyped resolutions offered, but the occasion

330

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

was eonverte(i into a memorial where each of the

intelligent audience was privileged to speak freely,
and where earnest tributes to the memory of the
deceased menilier of the society found utterance.

Dr. Culburn was married November 21, 1841,
to Mrs. JNLarj' Angeline (Phelps) Parcells. the only
living reiiresentalive of their union being Walter
P. Colburn, of the firm of C'olburn, Birks & Co.,
wholesale druggists. Mi's. Colburn died in this
city October 9, 187.3.

A portrait of the late Dr. Colburn appears in
connection with this sketch.

^^REDERICK STEGENS came to this coun-
IJ^ZyCi try from Germany a quarter of a centu-
_lv "^ r_v ago, and when he landed on these shores
found himself in debt to the extent of ■^25. Now
the balance is decidedly in his favor and he is
numbered among the moneyed men of Rosefield
Tovvnshi|i, with whose farming and stock-raising
interests he is closely identified.

- Mr. Stegens was born in Oldenburg, Germany,
December 20, 18.37. His parents, Frederick and
Katie (Schultz) Stegeiis, were natives of the same
place as himself, and there they lived and died, their
occupation during life being that of farming. They
reared six children: Martin, Fred; Deitrich, and
Mattie, deceased; Katie, who died leaving one son
and one daughter; and Louisa who lives in Ger-
many.

Our subject gleaned a good education in the
excellent schools of his native land and subse-
quently learned the trade of a ship carpenter. May
1, 18G5, in the prime of a vigorous manhood he
came to this country with his brother Martin, who
ha:l been in the United States since 1858. Our sub-
ject settled in Jefferson County, Bio., whence he
came to this county in 1866, and located ndiere he
now resides. He at first worked on a farm for his
brother on shares. In 1873, he bought eighty
acres of land, then ten acres, then a one hundred
and fifty-eight acre tract, then added forty-four
more acres to his original purchase, and subse-
quently bought ten acres more land, and now h.as

in his possession two hundred and sixty-two acres
of landed property, which he has so improved and
has placed under such good till.age that it is now
one of the choicest farms in the vicinity.

Mr. Stegens hag been twice married. He was
first wedded May 15, 1862, to Ann Stalling who
was a native of the same place as himself. She
was a daughter of Barnard Stalling, she being one
of five children, two sons and three daughters.
The daughters all came to the United States and
Helena is now deceased; Christina married John
Renemann, and both are now deceased, leaving one
son and two daughters ; the wife of our subject
died March 23, 1882,Ieavingnine children, namely:
Deitrich, Maggie, wife of Commodore Snider;
Kiltie, Anna, Sallie, Ilanna, Harinena, Fred and
William. Mrs. Stegens w.as a woman of most ex-
cellent character, was a sincere Christian and a
member of the Lutheran Church, and was well
thought of by all who knew her.

The maiden name of our subject's present esti-
mable wife was Mary Slane, and she is a native of
Peoria, and a daughter of Thomas Slane, one of
its pioneers. She is well fitted to be the help-
mate of her husband, understanding thoroughly
the management of the household, and is respected
by the community.

Our subject's industi'ious habits, his push ami
enterprise have made for him a substantial place
among the farmers .and stock-raisers of the county
and he is doing well financially. His fellow-citi-
zens hold him in respect for his man^' estimable
(pialities and find in him a good and obliging neigh-

bor.

.^^g-J#^S-4e

"ifJACOB KREUTER was for many years a
prominent merchant in Peoria, and at his
death the city lost a most estimable citizen,
one who had contributed his quota to bring
about its commercial prosperity. Mr. Kreutcr was
greatly' assisted in his business by his wife, who
still survives him, making her home at No. 707
Green Street. After his death she conducted the
business alone very successfully for three years,
and then handed it over to her S(_>n Ilenrj'.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM,

srji

The Kreuters came from Germany in 1 846. They
became acquainted while on hoard the vessel on the
lono- voyage across tlie Alianlie, and their acquaint-
ance, which was continued in New York Citj' dur-
ing Ihcir short stay there, Hnally terminated in their
marriage in Columbus, Ohio, whicii was solemnized
July 14, l!SU5. Mr. Krcutcr had learned the trade
of a miller in the Fatherland, of his father Peter
Krcutcr, who had a mill in Darmst.adt, Germany,
which was the birthplace of our subject, where he
was born April G, 1819. Mrs. Krcnter's maiden
name was Theresa .Stesc, and her father was Jobann
Stese, who was a farmer. She was Ilia only one of
the family to come to America.

Mr. and INIrs. Kreutcr went to Memphis, Teun.,
in the fall of 184G, and there opened a store. In
1817, they removed to Mt. Pleasant, Miss., where
they continued in the same business. In 1853
they returned to Ohio, and after earr3'ing on a store
for a w'hile in Devertown, built a mill there which
proved a b.ad venture, and after a year of unsuc-
cessful operation, they traded it for a farm.

In 1 858, Mr. and Mrs. Kreuter came to Peoria.
H'hes' had a hard time of it here for awhile, but af-
Uv a few months their prospects brightened, as they
had an opportunity to take charge of the old tavern
three ir.iles from the city, which the3- managed ver_y
protitably for about three months. Thej^ did so
wi'U Ihat the proprietor, Mr. Clark, became jealous
as he thought thej- were making too much money,
and he worked to get rid of his tenants, and soon
succeeded. The Kreuters then came into Peoria,
and entered u|)on their successful mercantile career
in this cit3% They then opened a store, which is
still in existence. At the expiration of a year they
bought the property, and the store is still in the
hands of tiie family, Ilenry Kreuter, the son of our
sulijcct being the proi)rictor. Here by years of in-
dustry, careful attention to the business in all its
details, and by the exercise of far discerning judg-
ment and due discrimination, they i)uilt up a laro-e
and lucrative trade.

February 19, 1879, Mr. Kreuter departed this
life, leaving behind him the blessed incmorv of a
good uian, who was conscientious and honest in his
dealings, and was true in all things. In his politi-
cal views he w^as a pronounced Democrat. He was

a good citizen, and generously aided ever}^ cause
that would in any waj' promote the welfare of his
adopted city. He was happy in securing as a wife
and hel))mate one who is very capable, and is a
thorough business woman, aud,asatruc wife should,
looks upon his interests as her own. Three of
their eight children are now living, as follows:
Rosa, wife of George Schmuck, a machinist; Car-
rie, wife of Nicholas Ulrich, an attorney at law in
Peoria; Henry, now proprietor of the store. The
other children all died in cliildhooil, with the ex-
cei)tion of Louis, who was drowned in a cistern
whilst the family lived in Ohio.

<^ EREMIAH MOFFITT, deceased, was in his
day one of the foremost pioneers of Peoria
County, who was prominently identified
/ with every enterprise for the upbuilding of
the city of Chillicothc, and at his death, April 3,
1857, it lost one of its most valued citizens. He
was an early settler of this part of the county, and
was at one time one of the leading agriculturists of
Chillicothe Township, and later became interested
in its commerce as a dry-goods merchant, carrying
on business with a firm under the title of J. & J.
Moffltt. A few years after he entered into part-
nership with H. McFudden, now of Havana,
111., and they carried on an extensive lumber and
grain trade until the death of our subject one year
later. Mr. Moffltt through his business relations
was widely known, and his name was greatlj' hon-
ored in financial and social circles, as he possesseil
rare judgment and exceptional business talent, and
was honest and straightforward in his dealings.

Mr. Moffltt came to this county and State in the
earlj' '30s, and cast in his lot with the pioneers
who had preceded him, and began the upbuildino'
of a home on land that he purchased from the
Government as soon as it came into the market.
He remained a resident of this county until 1856,
when he made a tour to the Territory of Kansas,
designing to settle there if he was pleased with the
prospects. He made his way to Topeka, then a
new town, and bought properly on speculation.

332

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

but. under the regime then extant he di<l not like
the surroundings, and so returned to Illinois. In
this connection it is noteworthy that after seeing
Kansas in those troublous days before the war, he
was converted from a stanch Democrat into a solid
and unchangeable Republican, holding to that party
to the da}' of his death.

Mr. Moffitt was born in Richmond. Ross County,
Ohio, November 2, 1810. His parents. John and
Lydia (Cox) Mo/filt, were natives of North Caro-
lina, and are thought to have been of .Scotch-Irish
descent. After a few j-ears married life in their
native Slate thej^ removed to Tennessee, in early pio-
neer times, where one or two of their children were
born, and then they made another move and located
in Ross County very early in the settlement of Ohio,
going there prior to 1810, when nearly the whole
of the .State was an unbroken wilderness filled with
wild game and Indians. John Moffitt and his wife
and small familj', began their life there as pioneer
settlers, and it is also thought tliat his parents had
accompanied him there and died in Ross County
when old people. The name of his father was
either James or Hugh MofHtt, .and he and his wife
were of Quaker stock and were members of the
Society of Friends. After the birth of all their
children, and after they had mostly grown to man
and womanhood, John MoHitt and his wife came to
Illinois, about 1830, securing a Government claim
in Chillicothe Township, which became their home.
After making improvements and witnessing most
of the development of the countrj^ into pleasant
farms and thriving towns, thc}' both p.assed away
full of years, aud as they were united in life, in
death were not long divided, they dying within
a few days of each other. Though reared to the
Quaker f.aith, Mr. Moftitt had married out of the
church, and ever afterwards declined all association
with the Societj- of Friends. He was the father of
a large family of some eleven children, all of whom
are now deceased, but they have man}' representa-
tives hring in Peoria County, some of whom are
among its leading citizens.

Jeremiah Moffitt, of whom we write, was well
reared and received a ver}' good education in the
public schools during the log cabin da^s of Ross
County. He was bred to the life of a farmer, and

was nearly of age when he came to this county, a
single man. He was married near the present city
of Chillicothe to Miss F^lizabeth Jlcad, aud to her
able assistance he was great]}- indebted for the
success that he achieved. She is a very capable
woman, possessing quite a talent for business, and
is now managing with success the large property
left by her husband. Mrs. Moffitt was born in
Chillicothe, Ross County, Ohio, June 23, 1815. a
daughter of Hezekiah and Julia (Tuttle) Mead,
natives respectively of Connecticut and Massachu-
setts. Her father came of good New England
stock, and from i)cople well-to-do, and his father
was a Revolutionary soldier, and saw the burning
of the town of Danbury, Conn., by the British.
Hezekiah Mead grew to manhood in his native
State and there followed the trade of a carpenter.
He went from Connecticut to Massachusetts, where
he married his wife. She had lost her parents, who
were Massachusetts people, when a young girl, and
she was reared in that State by her maternal grand-
father, John Bull, who was a prominent man of
his town. After marriage Mrs. Moffitt's parents
removed to New York, where Mr. Mead carried on
his trade of a carpenter and builder, aud he erected
the first public hotel that was put up at Saratoga
Springs, that now famous summer resort. He sub-
sequently came with his family as far West as
Ohio, and carried on his calling in Chillicothe,
Ross County, until his death in the latter part of
1816, when in the prime of life. He was a skilled
workman, and was in every respect a good man.
His wife survived him, and w.as married a second
time in Worthington, Ohio, taking as her husband
David W. B.ates, a native of Granville, Mass., a
descentant of a good old Massachusetts family, and
a cousin of Senator Isaa<: C. Bates, of Northamp-
ton, Mass. He himself was a prominent man, was
a Major in the War of 1812. and fought at the
battle of Lundy's Lane. With his wife and step-
children he emigrated from Ohio to Illinois in
1837, and settled on a farm in Marshall County,
and there he died after some years at an advaiiced
age. His wife survived him some few years, and
died while staying with her daughter, Mrs. Rogers,
in Mason County, her death taking place in 1862,
at the age of eighty-four years. She was a good

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

333

woman, a sincere Christian, and a devoted member
of the Episcopal Church. Her second husband,
Mr. Bates, iiad been reared for tlie ministry, but
he never entered the profession, as he grew rather
free in thought, though he was always a very
strictly moral man.

Mrs. MotHtt was reared by her mother and step-
father, who brought her to Peoria County when
she was a young woman. Her marriage to our
subject was blessed by the birth of five children,
one of whom, .Jeremiah, died at the age of eighteen
years. Her daughter Maud is the wife of Joiin M.
Uhden, of Chillicothe Township. Our sul>ject's
son. Frank I?., who lives in Chillicothe, uuirried
Miss JLaria Anderson, a Scotch lady who died in
July, 1889, and left four children. Mrs. Moflitt's
daughter, Laura C. is the wife of George B. Tem-
ple, of whom see biography. Her son Eugene, who
makes iier home witii her, is the Casiiier of the
Pruitt JIathews & Co. Bunk, of Chillicothe. He is
one of the leading j'oung men of the city, and is
well-i'ducated nnd wuU-read. being very fond of
books. iMrs. MoHitt. wlio holds a high place in the
community, and is known and liked for her liberal-
ity and charitableness, is identified witli the I'ni-
vcrsalisl faitii and is a sincere Christian.

-4-

-^¥r

-^ — ■

il^^^ENRY MANSFIELD, a veteran of seventy-
tiiree years and a highly respected resident
of Peoria, is pr.aetically retired from ac-
(,5^ live business, employing his time in look-
ing after his private estate. He has been a resi-
dent here for a space of over fifty years, having
hmilcd in Peoria January 2, 1840, and here lie has
since mantained his residence. He is a New
Yorker by birlh and born in Schoharie Count}',
March 22, 1817.

The fatiier of our subject was a native of North
Haven, Conn., and followed agricultural pursuits,
spending his last days in Illinois. When about
twelve vears olil Henry went to Connecticut,
where he spent a few years and thence to Albany,
N. v., where he was emjiloyed in a tliug store for
about three years and until a joutli of eighteen.

At the expiration of this time he decided upon
seeking the western country and engaged with a
Government surveying party in the nortliL'Vn part
of Michigan, one hundred miles from a white set-
tlement and among the Chii)pewa Indians. He
was thus occupied about four years and we next
find him in Peoria, where he associated himself
in partnership with Dr. N. S. Tucker in the drug
business, their store occupying Nos. 122 and 204
Main Street. This partnership continued until Dr.
Tucker's death, in 1888, a period of forty nine
years and nine months, during which the two men
continued with the most friendly intercourse and
were uniformly successful. The}' never gave a
note or purchased any goods on credit or asked
for a discount, thus following up the true princi-
ples and the only safe course in conducting busi-
ness.

In the meantime Mr. Mansfield invested a large
amount of his capital in farm lands and city prop-
erty and still has a large amount of the latter.
Dr. Tucker at his death left $30,000 to his rela-
tives and the balance of his estate was left by will
to Mr. Mansfield. He h.as in Peoria, Tazewell,
Mason and Fulton Counties, five thousand eight
hundred and twenty acres of land, all under culti-
vation and the source of a fine income. In the
city he has stores, warehouses and residences to the
number of about fifty, located in its business part
and of great value.

Mr. Mansfield has lieeu the architect of his own
fortune, having only a small amount from his
father's estate, beginning life practically without
means. The habits of industry and economy which
were compulsorj- in his youth later laid the foun-
dations for a fortune. He is a man well informed
ui)on the general topics of the day and an active
worker in tlie Democratic party, being sent as a
delegate to the various conventions and working
in its interest as opportunity occurred. About
1842 he identified himself with the Masonic frater-
nity, .and with which lie still continues. His mar-
ried life began in 184G, tlie maiden of his choice
being Miss Harriet A. Elding, who was at that time
a resident of Peoria. Mrs. Mansfield was born at
Reil Hook, Dutchess County, N. i'., and came
i with her parents to Illinois at an early day. She

334

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

became the mother of three children and departed

this life ;it lior home in Peoria, in lb52. Of these
there is only one now living, a daughter. Fannie.
Mis. Blakesley of Chicago.

Mr. Mansfield contracted a second marriage with
Jliss Isabel F. Servos, the wedding taking place
at the bride's home in Ihecitj- of New York. Mrs.
Isabel F. Mansfield was born in New York City,
and of her union with our subject there are seven
children, all living. Louise P. is the wife of C.
W. Mosher. of Lincoln. Neb.; Henry, also a resi-
dent of that city, was educated in the military
school at Lexington. Va., and later studied law in
the Universit}' of Virginia for a term of six years.
Nathaniel T. remains at home with his parents;
Eleanor is the wife of A. Lee Newton, of this city;
!Mar<i;aret, Eliza and Belle are still at liorae.

. f-^..;;..^-, — .

, LIVER M. MILLER. A list of the good
citizens of Hallock Township would be in-
?' complete without the name which stands
above, its possessor and his estimable wife being
este<'med for sturdy viitues of character and the
displaj' of industry and zeal in the prosecution of
the labors which lie before them as owners and oc-
cupants of a good farm. Their home is located on
section 16, where one hundred and sixtj'-oue acres
of the fertile soil are devoted to the raising of di-
versified crops and tlie home comforts of a fine
famil}'.

Before outlining the career of our subject it
may be well to say something of the family which
he so worthily represents. The Millers are of Ger-
man descent, but two or three generations of the
familj' were natives of the Southern States. In
South Carolina, Jacob Miller, the father of our
subject, was born and passed his early life. In liis
young manhood he removed to Ohio, where he
began his career as a farmer. When but eighteen
years old he enlisted and under Gen. Brown's com-
mand served throughout the hostilities of the War
of 1812. He was shot in the leg and carried a Brit-
ish bill to his grave. He died in Putnam County,

Ohio, in 1 864. at the age of sixty-eight years. Po-
litically, he was first a Democrat, and subsequently
a Whig. Of excellent moral character, he yet was
not a member of any religious body or a believer
in any church creed.

The mother of our subject bore the maiden name
of JNhuy Buyher, and was united in marriage with
Jacob Miller, in Knox County, Ohio. She was a
native of Pennsylvania. of the old Dutch stock, and
when young accompanied her parents to Jefferson
Countv, Ohio. There she grew to womanhood.
After the death of her husband she came to Illi-
nois with her youngest sou, our subject, under
whose roof she breathed her last August 25, 1887.
She had reached the great age of ninety-six years
and twenty-five days. She belonged to the Metho-
dist Episcopal Church, and throughout her long
life had exemplified the virtues of a Christian char-
acter. She was the mother of four sons and six
daughters, of whom two sons and four daughters
are yet living, all married.

Oliver M. Miller, the subject of this sketch, was
born August 29, 1837, in what is now Morrow, but
was at that time Knox County, Ohio. He was
carefully reared by his worthy parents, given the
advantage of such schooling as the section afforded,
and fitted as wjell as possible for a successful and
honorable career in life. He (vas not 3'et of age
when, in 18;j7, he became a resident of the Prairie
States, spending one year in Fulton County, but the
greater part of the time since his ariival in the
county where he has now become quite well known.
Since 1858 he has improved two farms in Hallock
Township, one of which he has traded for eighty
acres in ^'ormillion County. Ind. That tract is
mostly im|)rove(l, and is capable of affording a ver3'
comfortable support to whomsoever operates it.

In the city of Peoria the rites of wedlock were
celebrated between our subject and Miss Amelia
Vautassell. The bride was born in Hallock Town-
ship, this county. April 2. 1837. belongs to a good
family, and is one of the nine children of Alonzo
and Harriet (Richmond) Vautassell. Her parents
were born in the Keystone State and accompanied
theii respective progenitors to Illinois when quite
j'oung. They were married in this county, and
always afterward lived in Hallock Township, dy-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

335

ing on the farm which Ihcy had improved from
wild praii-io. Their residence here ilated from
very early in the '30s or late in the '20s. Mr.
Vaiitassell was a soldier in the Black Hawk War.
In an early day he was a manufacturer of castor
oil in Medina Township, this county, being the
first to enter into that enterprise here. He died
when quite old, but his wife departed this life in
middle age.

Mrs. Miller was reared and educated in this
county, was left motherless when quite young, but
remained with her father until she was fully grown.
She is the mother of five sons and one daughter,
of whom the three youngest — George W., Orin
M. and Lewis O. — are still inmates of the par-
ental home. The oldest son, Augustus, mariied
Sarah Russell and occupies a farm in Vermillion
County, Ind.; Sarah J., the second child, is the wife
of John Frost, a farmer of Cass County, Mo. ; Amos
E. married Matilda Mossersmith, and is farming in
Stark County, this State.. Mr. Miller and his sons
give their earnest adherence to the principles ad-
vocated by the Republican partj-. They are classed
among the citizens who can lie relied upon for hon-
esty, good purpose and steady conduct, and are
respected by their fellow-citizens as they deserve.
Mr. Miller has for three years been President of
the Centerville Cheese Company, whose factory is
located in Ilallock Township.

•^OIIN C. ATJ.KN is quite well known in
Peoria, where he is fulfilling the duties of
United States Storekeeper in a creditable
/ manner. He was chosen to the position in
August, 188'J. His integrity is beyond question,
and no citizen is more highly respected for intelli-
gence and industiy. He was born in Jacksonville,
this State, iMarch 1 8. ISoO, reared in tl. at "Athens
of the West," enjoying its excellent educational
advantages, und conqjieting a course of study in
the Washington High School.

In 187;") Mr. Allen came to Peoria, holding the
position of Assistant Marki^t-Master for two years.
In 1878 he was appointed teacher in the Lincoln

School of Quincy, winning so good a reputation in
pedagogical labor that in 1880 he was elected
Principal of the Broadway High School at Madi-
son, Ind. The responsible position gave him abun-
dant opportunity to display his mental powers and
executive ability. Under his control the school
advanced in reputation, many pupils being there
fitted for honorable positions in life.

While performing the arduous duties of his pro-
fession, Mr. Allen made a sj'stematic disposition of
his time, b}' so doing being enabled to prepare a
seholarl}' production — "A Pedagogue's Diver-
sions" — on which the copyright has been secured
and which is now in the press. Mr. Allen finds
time while discharging the duties of his present
responsible position, to continue the reading in
which he delights and add to the extended knowl-
edge which he already possesses. He is unmarried,
and the stay of his aged parents, Lafa3'ette and
Caroline Allen, who reside at No. 117 Fifth Street,
Peoria.

- ocx> .

OCJO

LGENK GAUSS, of the firm of Gauss, Shurt-
Icff & Co., is a fine representative of the
-41 young business men, natives of Peoria, who,
within the last few years, have taken their place
among the men of great enterprise and energy,
who are pushing forward the interests of their city
in every direction. His name already stands
high in commercial circles, and he has a bright fu-
ture before him in his honorable career as a mer-
chant.

Mr. Gauss was born in Peoria, April 3, 1802, to
Julius and Pauline (Bauch) (!auss. (P\)r parental
history see sketch of William Gauss). Our subject
was reared and educated in this city, and when
quite young, was engaged in the grocery store of
AVilliam Gauss, at that time a retail grocer on
South Madison Avenue. He continued with him
for thirteen years, and became thoroughly conver-
sant with the trade in every branch. In the month
of November. 1887, he established himself in his
present business, in company with Flavell Shurtlcff
and R. A. Schimpff, opening their store where they
now are, and by their honorable dealings, and strict

336

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

attention to business, they li.ivc worked up one of
the largest and most profitable trades in town.
Their store is neatl}- fitted up, and the^- carry a
cqmplete stock of everything in their line that is
demanded by their custom, and they have an etJi-
cient corps of six clerks.

Mr. Gauss is a young man of excellent personal
habits, and bears a fine reputation. He is wide-
awake, possesses a large degree of enterprise anil
business acumen, and is already in prosperous cir-
cumstances, and bids fair to become one of the
wenlthy men of his native city. He is bright a.id
intell'gent, |)ossesses pleasant social qualities, and
is of good social standing. He is a prominent mem-
ber of tlie Knights of Pythi.as, belonging to both
branches, the lodge and the uuiformed ranks.

E^-

<fl IkILLIAM a. ARNOLD. VVc are pleased
\/\l// to transcribe to these pages a brief record
\y\V of the life of this gentleman, who is hon-
ored and revered by his fellow townsmen not only
as a pioneer settler and an industrious farmer of
Brimfleld Township, but as one of its most deserv-
ing citizens, whose life, guided as it is by purit}'
of purpose and rectitude of act, is an example
worth}' for all to follow. He has a comfortable
home <m section 16, and a good farm that compares
in point of cultivation and improvement favorably
with the best in its vicinity.

Mr, Arnold comes of fine New England stock and
Revolutionary ancestry. He was born amid the
beautiful scenery of Windham County, Vt., October
8, 1826, a son of William G. and Mary F. (Brooks)
Arnold. His paternal ancestors were English, and
his great-grandfatiier Arnold was born in England,
became a settler of New England in Colonial times,
and here his son was reared to manhood and took
an active part in the Revolution. The father of
our subject, was born in 1797, in Vermont, his
father, who was a native of Rhode Island having
been an early settler of the Green Mountain State.
When our subject was in his eighteenth year, he
came with his parents to Illinois, performing the
entire journey from his early New England home

with a wagon and two teams. They started on that
momentous trip, November 1, 1843, and arrived at
tlieir destination on the Brimfield Prairies the first
day of the following February in 1844, having
journeyed leisurely, camping by the wayside at
night. The father was killed by lightning April
22, 1844, while standing in a doorway a short dis-
tance north of P>riniHold. Tlie mother of our sub-
ject survived until March 13, 1888, when she died
at a ripe old age of ninety-two years, lacking three
months. His worthy parents had a family of nine
children of whom the following five are still living:
George B.. in Elmwood; William A.; Cyrus, in
Henry County; Marietta, wife of T. O. Owen, of
Henry County; and Ami'lia L., wife of Joseph L.
Barnes of Bushnell, HI.

The one of whom we write was reared in his
New England birthplace, and much of his time was
spent in his father's sawmill and he also performed
some labors on the farm. His education was con-
fined to his attendance in the subscription and early
public schools of Vermont, and since then by much
reading and exercise of his observing powers, he
has become very well informed.

In the fall of 1850 Mr. Arnold settled on his
present farm which was then in a state of nature,
just as its aboriginal owners had left it. In their
attempts to develop that wild tract of land he and
his wife experienced the vicissitudes and hardships
of pioneer life, but steadil}' persevered through all
and as a result have placed one hundred and twelve
and one-half acres of land, which comprises their
homestead, under substantial improvement, provid-
ing it with an excellent set of buildings, and the
soil is well tilled and yields abundantly.

June 6, 1850, was the date of the marriage of
our subject with Louisa N. Fisher, a native of Rut-
land County, Vt. She was born August 4, 1834,
to Amos and Lydia (Stoddard) Fisher, natives of
New England. Her father was of English descent
an:1 her mother was of mingled Welsh and English
origin. Her mother's grandfather was a soldier in
the Revolution and fought at Bunker Hill, where he
is supposed to have been killed as he was never
heard of after that famous conflict. In 1842, Mrs.
Arnold accompanied her parents to Illinois, they
becoming at that time pioneer settlers of Metamora,

^Ss***" ."-V^^.^

/ 4i,.^^Sr^vwi

POHTKAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

339

Wooilfonl County. Mie was then eiglit years old,
.iiul was tliere reared to a true and useful vvoman-
liooil and at the time of her mnrriaiie witii our
subject was well fitted for the duties and responsi-
bilities that fell upon her in the care of a house-
hold. She is one of a family of twelve children,
of whom seven survive, namely : Kmerald, a resi-
dent of Woodford County; Martha, wife of Elijah
Marshall, of Woodford County ; Mrs. Arnold ; Ann,
wife of L. M. Fuller, of Woodford County ; Rosina,
wife of F. D. Learned, of Woodford County; Ezra,
a i-esident of Butler County, Kan.; Cynthia, wife of
E. Palmer, of Grafton, Vt. P'rancis W. Fisher w.as
a soldier in the late Civil War and died bravely
fiijlitinn: for his country at the siege of Vicksburg.
Mr. and Mrs. Arnold have three children: Au-
gustas W., a resident of Butler County, Kan.;
Lydia L., wife of E. G. Edson,of Woodford County,
now deceased; and Mary C, wife of E. .1. Kobin-
son, of Sedgwick County, Kan.

Mr. Arnold is prudent and wise in the manage-
ment of his affairs, displaying cool, cautious judg-
ment in his transactions which are at the same time
conducted with extreme fairness and unswerving
honesty. Coming to this county before lie had at-
t'lined manhood, the better part of his life h.as been
passed in Brimfield Township and he has contrib-
uted much to elevate its citizenship, and b}' his
cordial eo-operation with his fellow-citizen,s in their
jilans for improvement has forwarded its m.aterial
welfare. He is a true Republican in politics, giving
his party substantial supi)ort. He and his wife are
among the most valued members of the Baptist
Church of Brimtield, and he is now serving it
worthily as Deacon.

-mi

v|p\,EV. ELIJAH F. HOWE resigned the pas-
|Li/ torate of the First Congregational Church
of Peoria in April, 1887, on account of
i' failing health, and entered into rest Au-
gust 1 1 following. As a pulpit orator, he was rich
and original in thought, clear and forcilile in ex-
pression, earnest in appeal and enthusiastic in the
presentation of the Gospel. So often were his

thoughts recalled during the week that '-as Mr.
Howe said," became quite a stereotv|)ed expression
with many who attended his services. Ills por-
trait, presented on another l>age, will be valued liy
his many friends.

The birthplace of Mr. Howe was Grafton, Mass.,
and his natal day September 19, 1832. He was
prepared for college at Munson, Mass. The Rev.
.lames Tufts, a professor in the academy, says of
him: '-E. Franklin Howe called at my boarding
|)lace in the spring of 1853, to see me in regard
to entering the Academy to prepare for college.
He was, I saw at once, a mature, prompt, earnest
young man, desiring if he came to teach penman-
ship in the academy- in aid of his sui)port, which
he did very successfully through his course. He
commenced his studies the spring term, and con-
tinued here the two following years, entering Yale
College well prepared in 1855.

"Mr. Howe was not a brilliant scholar, and prob-
ably did not leai'n so easily as if he had com-
menced his studies younger, but he was alw.ays
industrious and faithful, striving to get every les-
son as well as he could. Such scholars usually
irnpiove rapidly, so that Jlr. Howe stood much
higher relatively .as a writer and scholar when he
entered college than when he commenced his
preparation. Uncommonly patient and persistent,
he did all his work thoroughly as he was able,
never relaxing his efforts, no matter how great the
dilli(ndties. This was especially noticeable in his
wi'iting and his composition exercises. Though he
could debate fluently and speak accei>tably in re-
ligious meetings, yet he could not write and com-
pose easily, and had none of that felicity of diction
which he afterward developed. Still his patience
never failed. There w.as not a student in school
who showed more persistence in learning to think,
write and compose than Mr. Howe, till he really
began to excel in a cle:ir, terse, thoughtful style,
somewhat as he afterward ai)peared in his pulpit
performances."

After being graduated from Yale in the class of
1859, Mr. Howe studied theology at Y'ale and
Princeton. He began his pastoral life al South
Canaan. Conn., in 1861. His second pastorate was
at Terre Haute, Ind., where he remained eleven

3-10

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

years, from 18P5 to 187G. He then accepted a call
to Isewtoiiville, Mass., aiirl in 1882. a unanimous
call to tlie First Conjireijational Churcii of Peoria,
placed him in ciiarge of the |)iilpit in September of
that year.

The Rev. Hiram Eddy writes of him, '•! like to
write about that dear man. E. Frank Howe was
■ one of my nearest neighbors in the ministr\- here
in Connecticut, and while he and 1 remained in the
Slate we were ciuite intimate. I loved him and 1
think he loved me. 1 had great confidence in his
mental culture and in the depth of his Christ-
wanned experience. He was always ready for any
good deed, for any good work. You felt a Christ
in his sympathy and here was the charm of bis
preaching. It was luminous, warm, and coming
home to the hearts of the hearers. He was more
like the lovely and loveable John than like Peter
or Paul. He drew not in the sensational sense but
in the sense of winning. His people loved him
and they felt he was one of them. He was a
brother among their brothers, a child among their
children, a neighbor among their neighbors and
was a member of all their homes. Of course souls
were won to Christ and many will call him blessed.
Let us thank God for such a noble ministry."

A college classmate of the Rev. Mr. Howe pays
this tribute to him: "I was one of the many
class-mates of Frank Howe who knew him and
loved him well, but I also stood in a closer and
more sacred relation to him, for there were few
who knew him and loved him as I did, and fewer
still whom I loved and knew as I knew and loved
E'rank Howe. He was one of the deacons of the
College Church from our class, and, while all the
deacons, so far as I now remember, wore faithful
men and ofBcers, yet it is no disparagement to the
others to saj' that not one in all the college was
more faithful or more useful than IJeacon Howe.
During his student life his prominent characteristics
were his unl esitating adherence to the right in
everything, his burning desire to do good to all
about him and to develop the very best that there
was in himself, his cheerful spirit, his livel}' afifec-
tions, and before all, above all and throughout all,
his pronounced personal religion." Numerous
were the letters expressive of similar sentiments to

the above sent to the bereaved widow, and the
congregation for which the Rev. Mr. Howe minis-
tered until so short a time before his death.

We make the following extract from a tribute
from the First Congregational Church of Peoria,
written by Miss S. S. Lines, one of its meml)ers:
"He was pre-eminently a man who had the cour-
age of his convictions. Aggressive and strong in
his own opinions, he gave forth no uncertain
sound, yet he was tolerant of and listened with
deference to the opinions of others, and his paciHc
spirit often during heated discussions or argument
'kept the balance true and fair.' His sense of hu-
mor was keen and his scorn of meanness intense.
His sympathy with honest doubt and his clear
presentation of the truth won the confidence of
some whose only safety fi'om agnosticism had been
their belief in the fatherhood of God. He was
quick to give and respond to a sympathetic touch.
His name was known and loved among those who
were not of his own parish, and many who were
outside of any church relation will long remember
his thoughtful kindness. None looked to him in
vain for help. The handful of choice flowers, the
blooming plant, the little note, the timelj^ word,
the warm pressure of the hand, the appreciative
glance, the pra3'er which voiced the agon}' and
strong crying for help and which seemed to bring
the answer down, are all remembered and cherished
by countless hearts. Literally, he entered into
our joj'S and shared our sorrows. The little child
in its innocence; the young, looking forward with
expectant eyes; the strong man in the stir and
rush of business life, some of whom have said no
other man ever came so near to them; ihe mother
weary of her household round ; the gray haired
man and woman, sinking under the burden of help-
lessness; the joyous, the suffering and the sinning
he carried in his great, true heart, they were his
people and knit to him by tender choi'ds of love."

The maiden name of the first wife of our sub-
ject was Frances Gates, of Munson, Mass. They
had four children, two sons and two daughters, all
living. They are: Frank C, an attorney in Peo-
ria; Lewis B., a stenographer; Grace G. and
Fannie C, all of whom are at home. Mrs. Fran-
ces (Gates) Howe died in November, 1882. The

Pt)RTRAIT AND BIOGRAl'IIICAL ALBUM.

341

second wife of the Rev. Elijah F. Howe was in licr
youth .^arali Ston's, and was born December 12,
1845. Her father, Chailes Storrs, a commission
merchant of New York City, lived and died in
Brooklyn. On May 5, 18G9, Sarah Storrs was
nnited in marriage with David Proctor, tlien of
Peoria, 111., and to them were born thrte chihlien,
Charles, Julia and David. Mr. Proctor was a man
of wcallh. and died in December. 1 880. On Oc-
tober 20, 188.5, his widow became the wife of the
Rev. E. Franklin Howe, the subject of this bio-
grnphical notice. She now occupies an elegant
home on Perry Street, and enjoys the esteem of a
large circle of friends and acquaintances.

il^'^^i

^ IfclLLIAM p. HAWVER. The thriving town
\/jJ// of Monica is greatly indebted to this gen-
W^ tleman who is one of its leading business
men, and Ins been foremost in establishing it on a
sound financial basis. He was the 6rst merchant to
locate here after the village was platted, as with
his customary enterprise and forethought, he seized
the excellent opening offered to a live business man,
and his Store was the first Iniilding to be completed
here, and he was the first man to sleep in the new
town. He has since built up an extensive trade as
ilruggist and grocer, and although other stores
have been built here since, that are larger, there are
none better finished, or more complete in all their
appointments than his.

Our subject is the son of Dr. Adam Hawver, who
was born in Dutchess County, on the banks of the
Hudson River. His father was a pioneer farmer of
'hat section of the country, and there made his
home until 1856. when he came to Henry County,
and in 18C5 he moved to Mercer Countj% 111., his
death taking place at the advanced age of ninet}-
four years, he dying very suddenly.

Dr. Hfiwver was reared in his native county, and
learning the trade of a shoemaker when a boy, fol-
lowed it for soinc years, and kept a number of
bands at work under him, and built up riuite a
trade as a slioe manufacturer. In 185(j he came to
Henry County, 111., and settled on a farm. There

he entered upon the |)ractice of medicine, having
gained his medical knowledge b}' study, experience
and observation. He afterwards removed to Aledo,
in Mercer County, where he engaged in the manu-
facture of patent medicines of his own get up, and
practiced as a specialist, traveling considerabl}' in
the interests of his business. He was ver}- active in
the Jlethodist Episcopal Church, serving in vari-
ous capacities as Class-Leader, etc. He was a stronir
Republican, in his political views. He rounded
out a long and useful life of ninety-four years in
his home in Aledo, his death occurring in 1888.
His wife whose maiden name was Clarissa Dean,
and who was a native of New York State, died in
1859 of typhoid fever. They were the parents of
seven children, as follows: Betsey C, Mrs. Cass,
died in New York in 188G; .John H., who was a
soldier in the late war, gave up his life for his
country; William P., our subject; Dianna, Mrs.
Davis, died in New York; Eliza, Blrs. Hanion, died
in New York, and Andrew and George died of tv-
phoid fever in 1859.

He of whom we write, was born in Green County,
N. Y., February 1, 1830, and was brought up on a
farm, as his father carried on agricultural pursuits
in connection with the manufacture of shoes. He
learned the rudiments of farming and clearing the
soil, and in the meantime acquired the shoemaker's
trade under his father, and became a prollicient
shoemaker before he was twentj'-one years old. His
education was obtained in the common schools, and
after he attained his majority, he worked out as a
farm hand, farming, chopping, logging, etc. The
next year he took a job of peeling two hundred
cords of hemlock bark up in the Catskill Mountains.
Me then determined to go to California and seek
his fortune, and in 1852 set out on the long and
venturesome journey, going from New York City
on a ship by the way of Panama to San Francisco.
After his arrival on the Pacific Slope, he went up
into the mining regions, and, .-"s his finances were
at a low ebb, be first began clerking in a drug store
in order to get some money. After that be en-
gaged in prospecting in the Middle, Coloma, and
Northern mines for two j'ears. He w.as not overly
successful, .and he next turned his attention to farm-
ing in San Jose, and the ensuing three years was

342

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

actively engaged at tbat calling, and made a suc-
cess of that venture. With tlie money thus ac-
quired, lie returned to Xew York bj' the waj' of
Panama, and. as in the meantime his father had
come to this Slate, he followed him directly to
Henry County. He bought property in Galva, but
it proved not to be a good investment. He farmed
awhile in tiiat place, and went from there in 1862 to
Elrawood, and there he engaged in the manufac-
ture of chain water-elevating pumps, manufactur-
ing them by the hundred, and carrying on that
business for one 3'ear. From boyhood he had been
a worker in wood, and bad shown himself to pos-
sess natural talent as a mechanic, and can make
most anything of that material. In 1863 he sold
that business, and devoted himself to farming in
Princeville the ensuing year. He then located in
the village of Princeville, and carried on the manu-
f.acture of shoes about two years. He next i-e-
moved to O'Brien's corner, in West Princeville, and
opened a grocery store and also carried a stock of
boots and shoes. When the town of Mouica was
located on the Chicago, Burlington & Quincy Rail-
rciad, he at once, as soon as the town was laid out,
bought lots and began the erection of his present
itore. This is a well-litted up and convenienll}'
arranged building, and some of the fanc}' work
that adorns its interior, is his own handiwork. He
started in business here December 1, 1871. and was
the pioneer merchant of the place. He transferred
his stock of groceries from O'Brien's corner to this
store, and about a year later put in a slock of boots
and shoes, which he sold for some two years, when
he sold them out and put in a slock of drugs, and
since then has dealt solelv in groceries and drugs.
He manufactures some medicines, such asllawver's
Pile Remedy, and Hawver's Diarrhea Cure, a salve,
and several other medicaments.

Mr. Hawver has been married four timts. He
was first wedded in Cambridge, 111., in 1858 to Miss
Mar}' A. Price, a native of Pennsylvania; she died
in Galva. leaving two children, who grew to msi-
turily: Harriet C, who was a school teacher here
until her marriage with Burk DeBord, a farmer and
an ex-Supervisor of Princeville Township; and
Mary C. who married George Piukerton, and died
in 1889, of diphtheria. Mr. Hawver's second mar-

riage took place in Galva, when he was united to
Miss Lovina J. Cox, a native of Ohio. She died in
that town, leaving two children: Avis M., wife of
Leslie Hurd, a telegraph operator in Nebraska, and
George A. The latter, a bright young man, taught
school three years before he was twenty-one years
old, and is now attending the Horological or Jew-
elry College at LaPorle. Ind. The maiden name of
our subject's third wife, to whom he was married in
Wyoming, was Nancy A. Davis, a native of Peun-
sj-lvania, but a resident of Princeville, at the time
of their marriage. They had one child, Andrew,
who died when nine months old.

Mr. Hawver was married to his present wife in
Princeville, Februarj' 1, 1883. She is an estimable
ladv, and a member of the Presbj'lerian Church.
Mrs. Hawver's maiden name was Julia E. Wheeler,
and she was born in Greenfield, Huron Countj-,
Oliio, and lived there until slie was eighteen years
old. At that age she came to Illinois, and learned
the trade of dre.ss-making, and in 1876 came to
Princeville, and made her home with her sister, Mrs.
Herrick, until her marriage. Mrs. Hawver's father,
Nahum Wheeler, was born in the village of Kean,
N. H., where he was reared to the life of a farmer.
He went from there to Ohio, and settled in Huron
County, in early days, cleared a farm from the
wilderness, and was successfullj- engaged in agri-
cultural pursuits there for many 3-ears. In 1871,
he sold his property in Ohio, and came to Iroquois
County, 111., and located near Watseka, where he
now lives retired from active labor, at the advanced
age of eighty five 3'ears. A ralher peculiar cir-
cumstance led to the founding of the Wheeler fam-
ily in America. Gr.andfather Asial Wheeler, was
born in Cork, Ireland, and when a very small boy,
he wandered away from his home to the docks of
that city, his curiosity- leading him there, and wliile
there he explored a vessel lying in the dock, and
before he knew it. had started on the long ocean
vojage to America. He was too young to remem-
ber his parents' names, other than Wheeler, and so
could not be identified, and after landing in this
country, the little lad had to make his own w.ay in
the world. He finally engaged in farming in New
Hannishire, and liccamo well-to-do. Mrs. Hawver's
mother's maiden name was Maiy Andrus, and she

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

3i3

was born in Oraii^f County, N. Y., and died in Illi-
nois in 1875. Five of her children are living as fol-
lows: George, in Crawford County, Pa.; LeRoy, a
farraer in Iroquois County, this State; Mark, a car-
penter in Di" iSmet, S. Dak.; Cornelia, wife of O.F.
Herrick, a harness-maker at Princeville; and Mrs.
Hawver.

Mr. Ilawvcr possesses that sturdy self-respect and
rectitude of character that commands the confi-
dence of his fellow-citizens, and since he has been
a resident of this count)-, he has associated himself
with the element that is most forward in promoting
all that will in any way (jrove a benefit to the com-
munity, [le is inlei'ested in politics, keeping him-
self well-informed concerning the affairs of the
countrj-, and is a follower of the Republican part}'.
He is a member of the Ancient, I'"ree and Accepted
Masons, at Princeville. He has been .School Di-
rector, and in that capacity did good service in ad-
vancing educational matters in this locality.

ENRY MALLKN. Among the well-culti-
vated and attractive farms which abound in
•-^y:-^ Medina Township, one located on section 2,
is owned and occupied bj" our subject. The
three hundred broad acres which compose it are
carefully and intelligentlj' managed, producing
crops which rank with the best in quality and quan-
tity, and supplied with the various improvements
which are expected of a man of enterprise.

Mr. RLillen is of Irish ancestry and birth, being
a son of Patrick and Catherine (T.aylor) Mallen,
natives of County Mealh, who spent tiieir entire
lives there. The father died when forty-five years
old and the mother while yet in the prime of life.
They were members of the Catholic Church. They
had eight children, most of wiiom lived to mature
years and came to America; three are still living.
He of whom we write was liorn in County Meath,
in August, 1838, reaching man's estate while still
residing there.

In June, 1852. he cmbarkeil on a sailing vessel
at Liverpool aiul after a voyage of six weeks
handed in New York City. He remained in the

Empire State a year, then came to Illinois, where he
lias since been engaged in farming in the township
•where he now resides. Here he married Mary
Mooney, who was l)orn in New York City, May 18,
183.3, being a daughter of Thomas and Helena
(Stagg) Mooney, whose historj' may be found in
the sketch of James Mooney on another pMgc of
this Alhum.

Under the care of good parents Mrs. Mallen was
reared and educated, having from the time she was
three years old lived upon the farm she now owns
as a gift from lier fathei'. Slie is one, of the excel-
lent mothers of the township, devoted to her chil-
dren thougli not neglecting the duties which she
owes to society-, nor failing to surround her home
with the comforts wl'.ich her husband appreciates
when the toils of his day are done. She and her
husband, together with the members of their family,
belong to St. Joseph's Catholic Church, of Medina
Township. j\Ir. Mallen is a firm believer in the
principles of Democracy, ever read}^ to cast his vote
in their support. Their family includes nine chil-
dren, one of whom, Helene T., liied at the age of
two years. The living arc John E., Kate, Mary A..
S. Jane, Margaret, Elizabeth, Henr}- T. and Agnes.
Jane is tlie wife of Thomas Carroll, who lives on a
farm in this township; Margaret is a teacher.

-€-*-B-

<;|J0SEPH F. MURPHY. The principal part of
the population of Rosefleld Township is com-
posed of farmers and stock-raisers, and as a
worthy member of this industrious, intelli-
gent community Joseph Murphj' occuuies n<j un-
important position. He has been successful in the
prosecution of his calling, has established here a
comfortable home, and is the proprietor of as good
a farm as may be found in the whole neighborhood.
Mr. Murphy was born in County Armagh, Ire-
land, in the month of December, 1835, to Michael
and Mary (McGiven) Murphy, who were also na-
tives of that county. Paul Murphy, grandfather of
our subject, was twice married. He and the grand-
mother of our subject, who was a member of the
McDermott family, had several children, among

344

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPEIICAL ALBUM.

whom are mentioned Patrick, whom came to Amer-
ica; Barney, Micliaol; Bridget, who married P.
Larkin and Mary, the former dying and leaving a
family, a part of whom came to America. The sub-
ject's mother was the only daughter of Patrick Mc-
Given, and she had one brotlier, Peter, who came
to the United States. The father of our subject was
a farmer, and was a life-long resident of Ireland.
Of the eight or nine children boi'n to him and his
wife, but three grew to maturity: Palmer, who
died in Peoria without children; .Joseph F. ; Mar3%
who married Charles Cratz, and died leaving one
son and two daughters. After the deatii of her hus-
band Sirs. Murphy came to the United States with
the tiiree children mentioned, landing on these
shores in July, 1851. They lived in the East about
a year, and in 1852, came to Peoria. The mother
spent her remaining days in this county, and finally
died, aged seveuty-three years, in the home of our
suliject January 13, 1877, surrounded b}' all tlie
comforts that filial love could procure. The sister
of our subject died two years earlier than his
motlier in the month of August, and his brotlier
died May 1, 1870.

After coming to this count}', Mr. Murphy lived
in Peoria for about tweut}' years and then removed
to his present place of residence on section 25, in
Rose-field Township, where he is conducting his
agricultural interests very profitabl}'. lie at first
purchased one hundred and sixty acres which he
placed under excellent improvement, and has since
added to his farm by the purchase of other land,
until it now comprises two hundred acres of choice
farming land. He is also the proprietor of vfilu-
able realtj' in Peoria, comprising three lots located
in a desirable part of the cit}', one of which he
purchased when he first settled there.

September 25, 1870, our subject and Miss Mary
Martin united their lives and fortunes and have
since led a happy wedded life. Mrs. Mur|ihy was
born in County Tipperarj', Ireland ; her parents,
Patrick and Julia (Bohan) Martin, came to the
United Stales in 1852 or 1853, and first located in
Ohio. They subsequentlj' resided for a time in Peo-
ria and then removed to Johnson County, Iowa.
They had five children of whom three were reared
to malvirit}': .lames, who w.as killed in battle during

the late war; John, who was a soldier in the war and
was killed in Nevada, and Mrs. Murphy. Their fa-
ther, Patrick Martin, also served in the war and
about fifteen years later died in Iowa City. Two
of his brothers and three of his sisters came to the
United States, namely: James, a resident of Peoria;
Thomas, who died in Iowa; Mary and Margaret,
who are living in Iowa, and Ella, a resident of the
Keystone State.

Mr. Murphy has worked hard to bring his farm
to its present fine condition, and has conducted his
labors with wise prudence and frugality, though at
the same time he has spent money liberally wher-
ever it would be of the most use. lie inherited the
genial characteristics of his countrymen, is warm
hearted and hospitable, and his neighbors find in
him a good friend who.Ti they respect for his many
excellent qualities. He and his wife are worthy
Christian i»eople and are devoted members of the
Roman Catholic Church.

-i^^h

the pioneers of Illinois are now as active in
its interests as were their fathers before
^)thcm, and have taken up and are success-
fully carrj'ing forward the work so well begun by
their sires in the development of the wonderful re-
sources of this State. The subject of this sketch is
a fine type of these and alreadj' occupies a high
[losition among the farmers and stock-raisers of
this county, as the proprietor of a large and well
raunaged farm on section 9, Millbrook Township.
Mr. Biederbeck was born in Knox County, Ma}-
28, 1857, and is a son of the well-known William
Biederbeck, a pioneer of this State, whose biogra-
l)hy a|)pears on another page of this volume. When
Richard was quite young his parents removed to
this county, and he gleaned a sound education in its
pul)lic schools, and here grew to man's estate. He
had a decided taste for agriculture and adopted
that calling for his life-work, and now has in his
possession a well-improved farm of three hundred
and fort3'-three acres of land that is under admir-
aMc tillage, and is [)rovided with a good class of

rORTRATT AND BIOCxRAPHICAL ALBUM.

34,5

buildiiii^s. and with exci'lk-iU farming wuicliiiR'ty,
and is vvell-stoclvcd with cattle, horses and hogs of
good grades.

Mr. Biederheck and ^Miss P^mnia L. Aby were
united in marriage February 19, 1880, and they
have estal)lished a charming home, to which the
gracious Ivindncss of the hostess and the genial
courtesy of tlie host attracts a wide circle of friends.
Mrs. Biederbecli is a daughter of Elder Aby, a
highly res|)octed citizen of Millbrook Township,
whose biography will be found on another page of
this work. The following is the record of the four
children that have blessed the happy marriage of
our subject and his wife: Willie B.. born March 4,
1881; Nellie E., in the month of February. 1883;
Alice L.. in December. 1884; Ralph, .Tanu.ary 3,
1887.

Strong of character, keen in intellect, full of re-
source, J[r. Biederbeck is well-equipped for the
battle of life, and he is meeting with unqualitied
success in his ventures. The genuine interest that
he feels for his adopted township, and the public
spirit that he manifests are important factors in the
promotion of its welfare. He is now serving as
School Director of District No. 5, and is contribu-
ting his quota in maintaining the excellent school
system that has been established here. He is a true
Republican in his political vievvs, and advocates
with Voice and vole the policy of his party.

\Y^' OSEPH WRIOLEY is a progressive and able
farmer and stock-raiser, a prominent mem-
ber of the faiming communitj' of Trivoli
Township. He is mi old soldier, and the
privations and sufferings that he endured uncom-
plainingly in those trying times of the great Rebel-
lion, proved his devotion to his country, and his
war record reflects credit on this his native county.
Robert Wrigle\'. the father of our subject, was
born in Lancashire, England, where his father,
bearing the same name as himself, was a merchant
and an inn keeper. His grandfatlier owned a farm,
and on that the son passed his early years until
within two years of the time when he emigrated to

America, and in that period he engaged in carting.
In 1841. he came with his wife and child to this
country. He had intended to settle in Ohio, but
was advised to come to Illinois, and did so, taking
up his residence in this county. He was without
means, having but $5 left after all his expenses
were paid. He worked at farming and other em-
plo3'men1s in Peoria for one year, and then entered
forty acres of land in Rosefield Township, two
miles east of Old Trivoli, in the Texas neighbor-
hood. He improved it and added to it as he could
find the money, and became possessed of one hun-
dred and twenty acres on section 30, Rosefield
Township, of eightj^ acres on section 6, Logan
Township, of one hundred and sixty acres on sec-
tion 1, Trivoli Township, comprising in all three
hundred and sixty acres, and he also had two hun-
dred acres in Rosefield Township, outside of his
home farm. He engaged extensively in farming
and stock business, and in 1880, rented his land
and retired from active work, having become
wealthj'. He still owns two tracts of land, com-
prising one hundred and twenty acres, and one hun-
dred and sixty acres, and has built in Peoria a fine
residence. He is very prominent as a member of
the Methodist Episcopal Church, having been a lo-
cal preacher while in England, and also since com-
ing to this country. He is self-educated, having
had no schooling after he was seven 3'ears old, ex-
cepting what he learned in the Sunday-schools. lie
is a firm Prohibitionist.

The mother of our subject, whose maiden name
was Ann Fenton, was born in England, and died in
Rosefield in 187(j. In her early life she was a silk
weaver. Five children were born of her marriage:
Thomas, a resident of Farmington; Joseph; .lane,
now Mrs. Wrigley, a resident of Chicago; William
I)., who lives in Trivoli; and Eunice, Mrs. Bower,
who died in Logan Ton-nshi[), in 1H7G.

The subject of this biographical review, was born
June 14, 1841, on Jones' Prairie, Limestone Town-
ship, this county. He was reared on a farm on the
Texas Road. He obtained his education under
difHculties, as the school which he had to attend,
which was first conducted und(M' the subscription
plan, was four miles distant. He was early put to
work, and afterward attemled school only during

346

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

the winter session. He remained with liis parents
until he enlisterl in August 8. 1862, when he volun-
teered to aid the brave soldiers of our country in
the great struggle that was tbeu being carried on
between the North and South. He became a mem-
ber of Comixiny D.. Eight} -sixth Illinois lufautrj-,
was mustered in at Peoria, and was sent to Louis-
ville, Ky. He fought in tiie battles of Perryville
and Nashville, and did garrison dut}- in the latter
place. He displayed such good soldierly qualities
in obedience to his superiors, in devotion to bis du-
ties, and in braverj' in face of the enemy, that he
was promoted to the position of Corporal.

In the fall of 1863, Corporal Wrigley was taken
from garrison dut}- at Nashville, and with his com-
panj' was sent to take part in the battles of Chicka-
mauga and Missionary Ridge. The}- afterward
helped fight the battle of Knoxville. His regiment
wintered about McAflfee Church and Gordon Mills,
and were often engaged in raiding and skirmishing.
He and his fellow soldiers then marched through
Georgia with Sherman, and did noble service in
the battles of Resaca and Rome, Ga. Our subject
was wounded in the latter eng.'igement, his left arm
being broken above the elbow byarausket ball. At
the time he was lying down behind a rail fence, but
as he could not load his gun in that position, he
rair.ed himself to his knees, and while in the act of
loading, the ball struck him and broke his arm,
the musket ball being split b}' the force of the con-
cussion. It was extracted from the flesh, and he
carried it home, and still has it in his possession as
a relic of his militar}- days. After being wounded
he made his way to the rear alone until he found
an ambulance, and was carried to the field hospital,
which was in an old plantation house, where his
wounds were dressed. He desired the surgeon to
save his arm, and thence he was sent to the hospital
in Rome, wheie he was given a three months' fur-
lough. He reported at the hospital in Springfield,
with his arm in a sling, and while there gangrene
set in, and it had to be burned out by nitric acid,
which nearly killed him. He had an abcess on the
shoulder joint, and was unable to move, and for a
whole month suffered indescribable torture. He
was finall}' discharged from the Springfield hospital
in the month of March, 1866. He had desired to

leave in November, as he wished to go to school,
but it was not thought safe for him to do so on ac-
count of his condition.

On his return home Mr. Wrigley went to school
until harvest time, and then drove a reaper, al-
though his wound did not heal until October, 1865.
After that he arranged to go to farming, and in the
spring of 1866 he bought one hundred and twenty
acres of his father on section 29, Rosefleld Town-
ship, which was partly improved. He located on
il, and did well in farming and raising stock, con-
tinuing to live there until 1885, when he sold that
place aud bought his present farm, as it w.is more
convenient in its situation, and the land was much
belter than his old farm. It comprises one hun-
dred and twenty-two acres on section 13, Trivoli
Township, all of which is improved and supplied
with necessary buildings, is wall tilled, and neatly
hedged, is pleasantlj' located one half mile from
town, aud is classed among the best farms in the
count}-. Mr. Wrigley has here some high graded
Short-horn cattle, and some good horses for gen-
eral purposes, using two teams in the work on his
place, and he makes a specialty of high graded Po-
land-China hogs, having from seventy-five to one
hundred and ten head on his place all the time.

Mr. Wrigley and Miss Sarah P. Sutton weie
united in marriage in Trivoli, February 10, 1867.
She is a native of Trivoli, .ind a daughter of Will-
iam and Mary (Young) Sutton. They came from
Maine, emigrating to this county in the early days
of its settlement, where he was engaged in farm-
ing. Mrs. Wrigley has been an invalid for the last
twelve years, but bears her suffering with resigca-
tion. Her pleasant wedded life svith our subject
has been blessed to them by the birth of two chil •
jlren, Everett Y., aud Fenton E. Both are at home
and assist in the management of the farm. Ever-
ett learned telegraphy at Farmington and Dixon,
but prefers to follow agriculture.

He of whom we write is prominent in the 30cial,
political, public, and religious life of the commu-
nity. He is a member of the Daniel McCook Post,
O. A. R.. at Elmwood. He has been School Di-
rector for the past four years, and while a resident
of Rosefield, was Township Trustee. He is very
active in the Methodist Episcopal Church, of which

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

3li>

he is Steward ami Trustee, and he has been SiipiM-
intendent of the Sunday-schocl. His nllegianfc to
the Re|julilie:iii party, is as linn as in the ilays wlicn
he was fi.yliting for his country. Ho has been a
delegate to County Conventions. Me lias served
on the Petit Jury. lie is a strong advocate of tem-
perance in word and act.

■:>^^3Pr^?..

i^m^w

11^-^ ON. P. R. K. BROTHKRSON. This name
ji, will be at once recognized as that of a gen-
tleman who has been connected with the
[^1 business interests and public labors of Peo-
ria for a number of years, and one who is still
identified with tiie moral and social prosperity of
that city. Mr. Brotherson enjoys tiie distinction of
l)eing the first Republican ever elected to the lAIay-
orally of Peoria, that event having taken place in
18(J8 and he having been re-elected with a greatly
inei'eased majority in 1872. The older residents in
the citj' will recall the fact that he established the
first exclusively wholesale grocery house here,
which was conducted for some years under the
style of Brotherson & McReynolds.

Phili]) Brotherson. the father of our subject, was
born in Deniarara, South America, and was brought
by his parents to New York when twelve years old.
Settlement was made on the North River where
Philip was reared to mercantile pursuits. There he
l)ccanie an associate of Washington Irving, who
w:,s wont to frequently pass an evening with him
in order to receive his criticism on the latest pro-
(hictions of a fertile lirain. ^Ir. ili'otherson was a
hearty admirer of the genial author, from whom
ho did not withhold the ealled-for criticism, in
New York M r. Brotherson wooed and won Miss
Catherine Kissam, a native of the metropolis and
daughter of an old Knickerbocker family. They
made their home in Saratoga County, where, July
11, 1811, the sidiject of this sketch was born. He
was the third of live children and is now the sole
survivor. A se<-ond niariiagc of his father resulted
in the birth of four daughters.

'I"he gentleman of whom we write was reared to

a like pursuit with his father, serving an appren-
ticeship in New York City, where he clerked for a
dry-goods house on Broadway and for a time was
in the employ of Blatthews & Ostrander. He after-
ward removed to Elmira, N. Y., where he engaged
in the hardware business with Richard F. Seabury.
In 1833 he was united in marriage with Miss
Frances B. McReynolds, a native of Elmira, and
after his marriage entered into business relations
with his father-in-law in a general store. In 1836
the firm removed to Cadiz, Ohio, where they spent
fourteen years in general merchandising,after which,
in the spring of 1850, they established themselves
in Peoria as wholesale grocers.

Six years later Mr. Brotherson sold out and en-
gaged in the grain and pork business with Alex-
aniler G. Tyng, the firm of Tyng & Brotherson
continuing to operate until 1877, when, having met
with heavy losses, our subject retired from the
business. In addition to the service which he ren-
dered Peoria as Maj^or, he has served several terms
as Alderman. The construction of the water works
was accomplished during his incumbency of the
Mayor's chair, he having been very active in pro-
moting the good of the people in that regard.

Mr. Brotherson was at one time President of the
Adams Street Horse Railway, of which he was also a
Director. He has laid out two additions to Peoria,
embracing forty acres and bearing his name. He
and his wife were active in sanitary work during
the war. There is probably no citizen in Peoria
better informed than Mr. Brotherson regarding the
news of the day and those -topics which bear ui)on
the national and social welfare, while few indeed
can claim a better reputation than he.

Mrs. Frances B. M. Brotherson, who died De-
cember 27, 1879, was a remarkable woman. She
was possessed of rare mental endowments and a
most estimable character, the golden rule of her
life being to do good. Her soul w\as thrdlcd by
strains of poesy and her brilliant mind and vivid
imagination found expression in verses which
thrilled others in return. A volume of her poems
has been published by her daughters so that, al-
though dead, -she still lives to uplift and cheer
lonely hearts with the bcautifid anil refined sen-
timents in which her works abound. Many of

350

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

her poems, es|)ecially that written for Decoration
Da3% 1878, have attracteil much attention. She
was the mother of three chilli ren: Mrs. L. B. T^'ng,
wife of 8. G. Tyng; Mrs. M. B. Re3'nolds, wife of
William Rej-nolds; and Philip, who died in Jan-
uaiy, 1866, at the age of twent3--three years.

In connection with the personal sketch of Mr.
Brotherson. we present his lithographic portrait
on another page.

tfo^ >••

•!

jl/^^ ENRY BISHOP is an honored member of
the farming cominunitj' of Peoria County,
and is closel}- identified with its social and
J)' religions interests. He has a well-ordered
and highly-productive farm on section 10, of Kick-
apoo Township, and has greatly assisted in the de-
velopment of this rich agricultural region.

Our subject is of English antecedents and birth.
His father, Richard Bishop, and iiis mother, Eliza-
l)eth Brewer, were natives of Cornwall, England,
where they married and spent the early years of
tlieir life. In 1848 they came to America and
settled in Pennsylvania, where Mr. Bishop was
chiefly engaged as manager for different mines.
They removed from Pennsylvania to Virginia,
whore he accepted the position of manager of the
mining department of the Iron Works, having
charge of one hundred men. He removed witli
iiis family from the Old Dominion to the Lake Su-
perior countrj', and located at a place called Cape
Hope, where he engaged in a copper mine as fore-
man for a mining company. The family- subse-
q.ientlj' returned to Virginia, and after living in
dififerent places, flnjilly came to Illinois about 1856.
Mr. Bishop purchased q. coal mine about one mile
above Edwards' Station, and operated it for some
two years. He then removed to Tazewell Count3-,
and worked a mine there for Jacob Funk. His
death in that count3-, in 1858, of congestion of the
brain, was a blow to the industrial interests of the
county and a good citizen was lost to the commu-
nity. His widow continued to reside there for
about four years and tlien married John Felton. of

this county. The3' located in Radnor Townshij),
where her death occurred June 13, 1888. There
were five children born of her first marriage, one
son and four daughters.

Henry Bishop was tiie oldest of the family, and
he was born in Cornwall. England, April .30. 1846.
He was quite 3'oung when his parents brought him
to America, and he remained an inmate of their
household until the death of his father, when he
started out in life on his own account, being em-
ployed as a farm laborer the ensuing four years.
At the breaking out of the war he was in the
prime and vigor of early manhood, and with pa-
triotic interest he watched its progress, and in
June, 1862, volunteered to take a part in suppress-
ing the Rebellion. He enlisted in Company G,
Sixty-seventh Illinois Infantry, for a term of three
months, which was extended to five months. At
the expiration of that time he was mustered out
and returned to Peoria County, and the ensuing
two years followed coal mining and teaming. After
that he again enlisted in Compan3' G, beiuo- at-
tached to the Eleventh Illinois Infantry, and joined
the regiment at Memphis, Tenn. He remained with
that nine months, and was then transferred to the
Eighth Illinois Infantry, as a member of Company
I, and for three months was located in Texas. He
was in the Department of the Gulf and bore a gal-
lant part in several skirmishes, being in the charge
of the Spanish Fort, at which time he had a nar-
row escape from being wounded in the leg, a ball
passing through his pantaloons.

After his experience of military life Mr. Bishop
returned to Peoria, and for three years was act-
ively eng.aged in coal mining, operating a coal bank
in company with II. Walters, of Limestone Town-
ship. A year Liter he turned his attention to farm-
ing on his step-father's farm, in Radnor Township,
lie remained there one 3'ear, and then rented
another farm in that township, which he operated
one year, when he again went into the coal busi-
ness, though he still continued farming, beino- lo-
cated in Limestone Township. About 1873 Mr.
Bishop gave himself up wholly to farming, con-
tinuing to live in Limestone Township until 1879.
when he settled on section 10, Kickapoo Townshin,
where he owns one of the most desirable f.-irnis in

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

351

the locality. Tt comprises one iuindred and sixty
acios of very fertile land, wliieb is carefully culti-
vated and provided witli substantial improvements.

While residing in Limestone Township, Mr.
Bishop contracted a matrimonial alliance with Miss
Mai-y M. I'xmtz. who is to him one of the best of
wives, the ceremony that made them one being sol-
emnized May 10, 1871. Mrs. Bishop's parents are
Conrad and Mary M. (Bcl*elyon) Bontz. natives
of IJavuria. (;ermany. They met and married in
I'eoria County and settled in Limestone among its
pioneers, and still resiile there. He is a farmer by
occupation and has a good farm under his control.
Mrs. r.ishop was the second of nine eliildren, and
was born in Limestone Township August 26, 1818.
Tliree children have been born of her union to our
subject: Kstelia, Grace E. and (lertrude A.

Mr. r.ishop is justly held in high consideration
by the entire community, as he possesses in a full
degree those qualities th.at mark him as a loyal,
)iublies|)irited citizen, and a man of high princi-
ph' and unswerving integrity. Li his relations with
bis fellow-citizens he is always kindly and consid-
erate, and his domestic life is above reproach. He
h:is held the offices of Highway Commissioner and
School Trustee in Kickapoo Township, and in pol-
itics is a true Democrat, although in local elections
lie votes for those whom he considers best fitted
f'lr the office. He is active in religious matters,
and he and his wife are devoted members of the
Methodist Episcopal Church, in which he has held
the oflice of Steward. Mr. and Mrs. Bishop are
also zealous promoters of the Grange movement,
:uid with their two eldest daughters arc members
of Orange Grange.

^1^ ATHER PATRICK McGAIR. If thorough
L^ scholarship, cordial, kindly manners, and a
J, devotion to the work which lies before bim,

entitle a man to represeiiiation in a volume of this
nature, then is Father McGair especially deserving
of our notice. He is now in charge of the parish of
St. Mary's of the Woods, at Princeville, and also of
the Catholic Church at Dunlap. His congregation
in the former place is one of the best .ind wealthiest

in the county, being made up of the better class of
citizens and proving a most pleasant field of labor.
The church edifice is the largest in the county out-
side of Peo'-ia and was erected at a cost of over
§10.000, the magnificent structure being due largely
to the efforts of our subject. It was put ui) iu 1889.

Father McGair is still quite a young man, hav-
ing been born in Providence. R. L, February 8,
1854. He had the best of school advantages, im-
proving them so well that ho was graduated from
till! High School when bui fourteen years old. He
then entered St. Charles (,'ollege near Baltimore,
Ijrosecuting bis studies therein four years, and
thence going to La.Sump'ion, Canada. In the col-
lege at that place he still further advanced his edu-
cation, remaining there four years and being then
transferred to the tutelage of Bisho)) Spalding of
Peoria. In 1877, he joined the Peoria diocese and
entering St. Frances Theological College at Mil-
waukee, completed his studies for the priesthood
and was ordained that year.

On June 29. 1878, Father McGair was ordained
at Peoria by Bishop Spalding and sent to Wataga,
Knox Count}', where he remained one year and
three months, serving two churches. He then went
to Gilman, Iroquois County, where with one as-
sistant he served four missions. He labored ardu-
ously, building a largo parochial house and finishing
the church, also erecting a church at Ashkum, and
finishing one at Watseka ami Crescent City each.
In March, 1884, he was placed in charge of the
Princeville congregation which had been organized
by Feather Albright in 1868. The society had pur-
chased the old Presbyterian Church and used it
until recently, when they were able to take posses-
sion of their beautiful new edifice.

The family of which our subject is the fourth
member, includes Mrs. Catherine O'Neil and Mrs.
Susan McCarthy of Providence, R. L; James, of
I'rinceville, 111.; F'rank, of the Regular Army sta-
tioned at Ft. Adams, Newport; Mrs. Mary McCabe,
of Providence, R. I. ; Mrs. Sarah Byrnes, of Prince-
ville Township, this county; and Margaret, of
Providence, R. I. The mother, formerly Miss
Margaret Meenan, a native of Ireland, emigrated
to America when seventeen 3-ears old ; she is now
sixty-eight.

352

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

The father of our subject was P. McRair, horn
in County Tyrone, Ireland, and reared in Rhode
Ishxnd to which lie was brought by his parents
wiien five years old. He studied engineering, became
thoroughly practical in his business and finally rose
to the position of Su|)erintendent of tiic Pruit Works
in Pi-ovidence. Tliere he was accidentally killed,
liis clothes having caught on a siiaft and his spine
being broken, death ensuing eight daj's later, Sep-
tember 17, l.S7<S. He was then fifty-five years old.

i)EV. JACOB S. CHAMBERLAIN, A. 15., of
"Robin's Nest Farm" and Rector of Clui.st's
Ciinich, Jubilee, is an old settler of tlie
county, and is widely known and hcmored
as one of the early missionaries of the West, who
has been a ))otent infiuenee in elevating the religious
status of tliis part of the country. His life has
been a busy one, and lie has had a remarkable and
varied experience. He has ever been ready to re-
spond to an}' call for his services, and has traveled
far and wide in the interests of both religion and
education. He and his wife are looked upon with
reverence and affection, and hold important places
in this community.

Our subject was born in Buffalo, N. Y., January
16, 1820, a son of .Sylvester Cliaml)erlain, a native
of Columl)ia County, N. Y., whose father, Jonathan
Cliamlierlain, was born of English parentage near
(Springfield, ISIass., and was an early settler of Co-
lumbia County. The grandfather engaged in farm-
ing in Austerlitz, on the Green River, where he
reared his family. His ancestry were noted for their
integrity, simplicity and deep religious principles,
and these he inherited to a large degree.

The father of our subje( t was reared on a farm,
but while j'oung learned the trade of a blacksmith.
He enlisted in the militia and served in the War of
1812, on the Niagara frontier, under Gen. Scott.
He was well pleased with the country there, and
soon after liis discharge returned home and made
arrangements for moving to Western New York,
and located in Buffalo. He established himself as
a blacksmith there, and worked at the forge until

he had to retire on account of an injur}' he had
received. He then eng.aged in tlie manufacture of
wagons and carriages, was one of the first manu-
facturers of vehicles in that city, and was also
among the largest in his day. His homestead wsis
on the corner of Pearl and Mohawk Streets. He
was cpnte a local politician, was a Whig in his
views and worked towards Rei)ublicanism. The
maiden name of his wife was Hannah Miller, and
she was born in Franklin, N. Y. She was a Pres-
byterian in religion, and died in Buffalo. Her
father was a farmer. Her mother's maiden name
was Sherrill.

The parents of our subject had nine children, of
whom the following is recorded: Hunting S., a
manufacturer, died in Buffalo; Theresa died in
Chicago; William H. H., a manufacturer, died in
Milwaukee; Horace, who was Captain of a Texas
company in the Texas Rebellion, under Gen. Hous-
ton, died in Texas a few years after from the
effects of a svvord wound in the eye; Jonathan is a
retired manufacturer of Buffalo; the next in order
is our subject, Jacob Sherrill; Maria, residing in
AVashington, is the widow of Mr. Rueker; Samuel
Miller, who was an attorney and a member of the
editorial profession, was editor of the New York
Times one year, and editor of the Buffalo Morning
Expi-ess for twenty-five or thirty years, and died in
that city; Edward O., a mechanic of Buffalo, served
in the late war.

The Rev. Mr. Chamberlain, of tliis sketcii, was
reared in his native county, and received good
school advantages for that d.ay. When he was
fourteen 5'ears old he entered Fredonia Academy,
in Chautauqua County, and studied there three
years to prepare himself for college, but on account
of his father's failure in business, he had to give
up the idea of entering college, .and he then began
the study of law in Buffalo under Stevens & Wing,
and later with Judge Rodgcrs. In 1839, when
nineteen j'ears old, he went to Chicago, and in
that then small village finished his legal studies
under the tuition of Butterfleld & Collins, and was
admitted to the Illinois bar in 1 840. He first es-
tablished himself as a practitioner of the law in
Chicago in partnership with Col. Hamilton, and later
continued in practice l)y himself until 1845. In

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

353

the meantime he had united with tlie Protestant
Episcopal Church, and witli religious zeal had de-
termined to enter the ministry, and came to Jubilee
College to prepare liimself. He entered the college
and seminary in the spring of 18-15, and was grad-
uated in tlie spring of 1847 with the degree of A. 15.
He was immediately ordained and became a mission-
ary for this region, and traveled in Woodford,
Tazewell and Peoria Counties in pursuit of his call-
ing,organizing congregations and building churches.
In 1849 he located in Peoria, secured the present
site of the St. Paul's Protestant Eijiscopal Church,
and built the first St. Paul's Church, and for three
years acted in the double capacity of pastor for its
congregation and a missionary. At the expiration
of that time, after the parish had been well organized
and the church had been built, he went to Pekin
and other places in Woodford, Tazewell and other
counties, and did missionary work, \vhil<! he left
his family in Peoria. At that time he received
liule ui' UK salary and had to support himself, and
in order to do so engaged in teaching a select
school. He started at that lime a girls' school in the
old Moss nninsioii, on the bluff, under the name of
"St. Mary's School."

In 1852 our subject went to IMiiinesota, and be-
gan missionary work there. His mission was known
as '"St. Anthony's Falls Church Mission," in which
he wits actively engaged forelevcn 3'ears, and during
that time he traveled in the interests of his mission
many miles, his circuit extending over one hun-
dred miles, from Chaska, on the Minnesota, to
Sauk Rapids, on the Mississii)p!. Forsev(!ral years
he traveled on foot, and then by vehicles. He
built thirteen Episcopal Churches within the one
hundred miles, and remained in Minnesota until the
spring of 1864, when he came Iiack to .Jubilee
Township. He had then just recovered from a
siege of the smallpox. He had left his family at
the "Robin's Nest," and as soon as he was well
enough he went to Washington, D. C, where he was
employed by the Government in the Treasury De-
partment until the winter of 1864. He was ac-
quainted with Abraham Lincoln, and attended
many of his receptions, and heard him tell many of
his famous stories, which he h;is remembered and
treasured up for years.

In the winter of 1864, Mr. Chamberlain received
the appointment from President Lincoln as Chaplain
of Nelson general hospital, Camp Nelson, Ivy. He
proceeded to that place, reported for duty, received
his commission and went to work with a will. He was
.mustered out in July, 1865, at Louisville, Ky.,and
returned to Jubilee by the way of Chicago. He
resumed his old work as missionary in the Illinois
diocese, and was thus engaged in Knox, Mercer
and Rock Island Counties. He was the founder of
St. Mary's School, in Knoxville, he procuring the
site and property and securing the services of Dr.
Leffengwell as its head, going to Winconsin to per-
suade the doctor to undertake the charge, and con-
tracting with him to teach the first five j'ears. The
school progressed well, was a success from the
start, and is to-day a flue institution. In 1882
Mr. Chamberlain received a call from Wichita,
Kan., and was pastor of the church there for two
years. At the expii'ation of that time he was ap-
|x>inted Superintendent of Christ Hospital, at To-
peka, and he directed its organization anil was very
busily engaged in that fur more than three years.

In September, 1887, our subject retired from the
duties of that onerous [losition on account of ill-
health, and for a year lived retired in Jubilee. He
then accepted the position of Rector of Jubilee
Chapel, his predecessor having resigned at the
beginning of 188!), and is devoting his energies to
carrying on its work. He is also Missionary Rec-
tor of Grace Church, Mercer County, which he es-
tablished j'ears ago. He has led a very active
life, and has selilom had less than five or six con-
gregations under his charge, and lias built twenty
churches, and organized a still larger number and
has otherwise greatly advanced the cause of relig-
ion in various places. He is a member of the Free
and Accepted Masons lodge at Cambridge, and in
his political views is a stanch Rei)td)lican.

Our subject has been twice married. In 1843
he was united to Sarah E. Hyde, who was born at
Darien, Genesee County', N. Y. She died after
thirteen months of married life. Oin- subject's mar-
riage with Miss Mary Chase, only daughter of
Bishop Philander Chase, D.D., was solemnized
Atn'il 11, 1817. To them have been born six chil-
dren, of whom the following is recorded: Sherrill,

354

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

11 vvell-lo do farmer in Harper County, Kan., at-
tended Racine College two years; Philander C, who
attended Hobart College for three years, is now stnff
correspondent and distributor of the To[ieka Daily
Capital, having been engaged on that pajjer for over
eleven years, since it started, he taking the first im-
pression of the paper from the press; Ernest, who is
engaged in general farming and stock-raising on
the home farm, is the naturalist of the family, and
has the finest and largest collection of Illinois
birds' eggs in the Stale; Ruth, a graduate of St.
Mary's, of Knoxvillc. is the wife of .Toim C. Lewis,
a farmer of Warren County; Grace, who resides
with her father, was for three years ward matron
of Christ Hos|)it:il, Topeka; Mary C. is the wife of
IMr. Clark, of Champaign, III., where he is taking a
mechanical engineer's course at the State University.
Mis. Chamberlain was educated at Jubilee Col-
lege in the same classes with her husband. She has
devoted herself to teaching some in the vicinit)- and
some in Peoria, and .is a lad3' of culture and marked
ability has been a great help to her husband in his
work. Ilcr father, Bishop Chase, was one of the fore-
most educators and ministers of his day in the West.
He wag a native of Cornish, N. II., and was graduated
from Dartmouth College in the class of 171)6. He
studied theology under the Episcopal Church Rec-
tor at Albany, N. Y., and became a Doctor of
Divinity. He was a Missionary in that State until
he was chosen Rector of Christ's Church in Hurt-
ford, Conn., which position he occupied a long-
time. He then acted as Rector of Christ's Church
at New Orleans, La., for some j-uars. After that
he came North to Worthington, Ohio, where he
was elected Bishop of the Diocese of that State.
He was the founder of Kenyon College, at Gambler,
Ohio, and was at its head, until he resigned to go
to Michigan. Going to Michigan he bought a large
tract of land in Gilead, Branch County, where he
farmed and did missionarj- work. In 1835 he was
elected Bishop of the Diocese of Illinois, and in
1836 he came to Jubilee. He had received funds
from the friends of the Protestant Ei)iscopal Church
in England and America from which to found an
institution of learning, and lie selected a site on
section 25, in this township, and as soon as possible
laid the foundation of tke school, laving the corner

stone of the chapel of the institution which he
called Jubilee College (from which the township
afterward received its name) April 3, 1839. He
also selected a site for his own home and private
property, located on north-half of section 36, where
he built the "Robin's Nest," afterward erecting a
brick residence, which still bears the name. This
property now contains one hundred and ninety acres
of land, located on the Kickapoo, and is a fine farm,
containing all the necessary conveniences. It is
located in a picturesque and beautiful spot, and is
a lovely place. The Bishop in his "Reminiscences"
called it the "Robin's Nest" because it was then "a
rude dwelling built of mud and sticks and filled with
3'oung ones." This beautiful property was in-
herited by the wife of our subject, and they make
it their home. By his personal inlluence the Bishop
secured the establishment of a p(>sl-oflice here,
which was named "Robin's Nest," and retained
that name until some two years ago, when it was
changed to its present title of Jubilee, and he was
api)oinled first Postmaster.

Rj' his energy and good management Bishop
Chase established a college in the wilderness, which
was at that lime one of the foremost institutions of
learning in the West, as to the number of students
in attendance and in regard to its end<jwments and
future jn'ospects. At the time of his death the
buildings had been erecle<l, and he had secured
over twelve hundred acres of land, in Juliilec
Township, free from incumbrance and one-half
under the plow. The institution was planned to
be largely supported by llie rents of its agricult-
ural lands, occupied b^- an Ei)iscopal colony. The
trustees of Jubilee College were appointed by
Bishop Chase's will, according to the conditions of
the charter which he had procured from the Leois-
lature of the State. After the Bishop's death, the
administration fell into the hands of Dr. Samuel
Chase, great nephew of the Bishop, and Vice-
President. Dr. Chase kept the college open for a
time, but during the war, like man}- other institu-
tions of ihe kind at that time, it failed to receive
suliicient support, many of the pupils enlisting in
the armj-. and in the second year it w.as closed, as
the Vice-President was appointed Chaplain of the
Twelfth Illinois Regiment. The Bishop had estab-

PORTRAIT AND BIOItRAPIIICAL ALBUM.

355

lislieil a priiitinjj office at Jubilee, and did all the
printing in connection with the institution, and the
publishing of a nionthlj- paper, "Tiie Motto of
Jubilee College." lie had overyihing in fine order
and the institution established on a solid financial
basis, when he met his death acci*lentaily while out
driving, on September 20, 1852, in his seventy-sixth
year. Peoria County then lost one of its most
learned and most respected citizens.

Mrs. Cliamberlaiii's mother's maiden name was
8oi>hia May Ingiaham, and she was born al Ams-
terdam, Holland, where her parents were visiting.
Her mother was a Greenleaf, of Boston, a very
prominent family, and tlie Ingrahams were also of
the best people. She was a remarkable and noble
char.acter, was well educated and was of great
assistance to the Bishop in his work. "She was a
perfect woman," said one who knew her well. She
w.as loved by all, and her death in the fall of 1864 of
paralssis. at the "Robin's Nest," was greatly
mourned. The Bishop had been twice married.
But one is livitig of the tiiree children born of his
first marriage, the Rev. Dudley Chase, who is now
retired Past Chaplain of the United States Army,
living in Philadelpliia, Pa. There were three chil-
dren of the second union, namely: Henry I., a
resident of Riverside, Chicago, and inventor of the
'•Cliase Elevator;" ftlary, wife of. our subject, and
tliu Rev. Philaiuler Ciiase, Jr., who died in Stark
Count}-, this State.

rj^^ATHAN GILES is held in h(jnor .as a pio-
I 1/ "*''^' ^^ I'eoria Count}', who has taken an
l^,Mi active part in its development, and has
done good service in the past as a valu.nble pul)lic
otlicial. He is one of the ()ld settlers of North
Peoria, be having come to his present location on
Knoxville Avenue, one and one half miles north of
the court-house, in 1844.

Thomas Giles, the father of our subject, was
born in Wales, and early took up the life of a sol-
dier, and when a young man was sent to St. Hele-
na's Island b}' tiie British Government as one of
Bonaparte's guards. He there married Miss Ann

Pickin, and on that island three of their children
were born. After coming to this country, Mr.
Giles occupied himself as a stonemason in New
York, and in 1 836 emigrated from that State to
this, and bouglit the property now owned by our
subject. It comprised eight}' acres of land, whicii
he purchased of William Hale for about #8 or *10
an acre. He entered upon its imi)rovement, but
his useful career was cut sbort by his deatii in
1838. He was in every way worthy of respect,
and, of the Bajjtist faith in religion, was promi-
nient in the ciiurch. His wife survived him until"'
1855, when she too passed away. They had the
following children — Thomas, loseph, William,
Alice (wife of James Peters), Nathan, George and
Sarah. Sarah, who was the third child in order of
birth, was killed by lightning in Utica, N. Y.. in
1837.

Oui- subject w;is born while his parents were liv-
ing in Oneida County. N. Y.. November 15, 1827,
being the date of his Ijirth. Tiie family subse-
quently removed to Oswego County, N. Y., and
remained there eight years, coming to this State in
June, 1836. Nathan, however, remained at Rich
land, N. Y., until the spring of 1843, when he
turned his face Westward, and coming to Wiscon-
sin, was engaged in the lead mines near Galena for
ten months. The following spring he crossed the
State line and came to this county, where he rested
from his wanderings until the spring of 1849. At
tliat time the people hereabouts, as in all parts of
the country, were much excited over the discovery
of gold in California, and our subject, catching the
fever, determined to join the many men who were
crossing the plains and mountains in search of the
precous metal. He and his brother William, and
their friend, Paul Keim, joined a company, twelve
or fourteen trains going out from Peoria with ox-
teanis. Tlie first night out tliey found shelter in a
house, which was the last roof that covered their
licads until they left the mines in 1853. The
corai)any W(;nt by the way of St. Joseph, covering
the old route tlirough Brownsville, Ft. Kearney,
by the way of tlie North I'iattc, etc. They took a
boat and rope witli tliem, and ferried themselves
.across every stream excc|)t the INIissouri River,
finally selling their boat and rope at Green River,

356

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRArillCAL ALBUM.

Utali, fur -rJ-.'iM). They passed Ft. Hall, and went
by llie northern trail from Mary's River, [and
leaciied the Sacramento River at (ioose Lake, and
then followed tlie stream down to Lawson's Ranche,
going throngh the valley proper of the Sacrauienlo.
They first stniek the mining regions at Readding's
Springs, and after three months went to Sacramento
City to stock iqi. Tliey returned to the mines at
Rose's Bar, on the north fork of the Yuba, and
there spent the ensuing winter, finding a fair
amount of gold. They next went to Deer Creek,
and six montlis later passed over the north fcu'k of
t!ie Yulia, farther up the stream, and in the fall
William Giles returned home, coming by tiie w.ay
of ^Mexico and New Orleans. Our subject leaving
tlial part of tlu^ mines, went down into tlie valley
with a view of entering the cattle business. Not satis-
fied witli ths prospects tliere, he soon returned to
Readding's Springs, and in the following February
accompanied a party, comprising Moses Y. Duscn
berry, jNIilton Hasbrook (both known in Peoria),
John Rodham, George Wells and Henry Bowman,
to Shasta Yallo}-, which was then perfectly unknown
and had never been prospected by vvhite men, they
doing tiie first mining that was ever done on the
Shasta River, which afterward i>roved to be a very
rich mineral country. The following May i\Ir.
Giles went down the Klamouth River, and crossing
the divide to Clear Creek, discovered gold in the
extreme northwestern part of California on that
creek and its tributaries. They worked there until
leaving for home, and during the time our subject
visited Oregon three times, going to Portland and
Oregon City. After leaving Clear Creek our sub-
ject and his friends went to Crescent City, Cal., and
there took steamer for San Francisco, where the}-
stopped twenty days. Mr. Giles then started for
home via Panama and New York, arriving in Peo-
ria December 22 or 2.3, 1853, after an absence of
four and one-half years. He at once entered into
business, opening a brickj'ard on the land he now
occupies. He continued to manufacture brick for
ten years, and then turned his atteutioh to farming
in Richwood Township, and was there actively
engaged in tilling the farm and stock-raising for i
ten years. At the expiration of that time he traded
for more of the original eighty with his brother,

and now owns eighteen acres of it, having sold off
the remainder at a good price. In 188.j he erected
his present commodious and convenientl\' arranged
residence, and hero lias one of the most coz3' and
comfortable homes, in wliicli he lives retired from
active life, simply' attending to his few acres of
land.

December 18, 18.56, our subject married Cather-
ine Clausen, and in her has found all that a good
wife sliould be. To them have come five children,
all of whom were reared to maturity- — Margaret
Ann married Arthur Kerthley, of this city; Loui'se
Anna C, who married Frank Corrington, is now
deceased; Olive mairied J E. Sherwood, of Bea-
trice, Neb.; Alice is at home; Andrew, in business
in the cit3% makes his home with his parents.

Mr. Giles is widely and favorably known in this
county, whose interests he has been instrumental in
advancing during his many years residence here,
where he has won the friendship of many by his
helpfulness, constant kindness and other personal
qualities. He has mingled in the public life of the
county, and in his capacity of Supervisor of Rich-
wood Township, which iiosition he held for eleven
years, his wise counsels and zealous devotion to
the interests of the public ma<le him a valuable
official. During his incumbenc}- of that office the
county court house was erected, and he was one of
the building committee. He can say trnthfnllj',
that not another court-house can compare with it
for beauty, utility and ventilation. He h.as also
been Trustee of the village of North Peoria, but
since then has refused the office. He has taken an
active part in polities, was a Democrat until 1861,
when he joined the Republican partj-, and bas since
then seen no reason for change in his political
views.

7;RANK C. MAHLER. Few, if any, of the
ly young business men of Peoria have brighter
prospects for the future than the gentleman
above named, who as junior member of an old es-
tablished firm has already become quite promi-
nently known in business circles. The business in
which he is engaged is that of general brass foun-

iJrC ^a^l^

POUTRAIT ANM) BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

361

{living and maniifactmiiii^ of brass goods and oop-
liersniiLliintf. espfcial attcnlioii being given to ttoani
titlin^s and llu! coi)per work nscd in distilleries.
The ware rooms and otiiee are loeatc^l at No. 400
South A<lains Street with the machine shop in the
rear, and furnisii eniplojnienl to a force of forty
men. The business was establisluHl in ISoO, by S.
A. Kinsey and John C. Mahler, the latter the fa-
ther of our subject, and the first change made in
the firm was in 1882 wiien the business w.as incor-
porated, y. A. Kinsey then became President, War-
ren Kinsey Secretary, and F. C. iMaliler Treasurer,
the capital stock of the company being |i50,000.

Our subject is of (ieruian ancestry, his father
having been born in the Fatlierknd, whence he
emigrated to St. Louis, Mo., vvhen a young man.
There he married Miss Catherine Bittner, removing
to Peoria and organizing the firm which has grown
to its present proportions. He was a practical cop-
persmitii. He breathed his last iu 1873. His son,
our subject, was born in this city April 17; 1868,
and educated in its schools. During tiie last five
years, since completing his education, he has given
his time and attention to the business, altiiough his
interest extenils over a much greater period.

Mr. Mahler is a young gentleman whose informa-
tion on various toi)ics is quite extensive and whose
financial ability is commended by all with whom he
has dealings. In his own circle of acquaintances he
has many friends who speak highly of his. social
qualities and kindly nature.

^^i

ON. JOHN HAMLIN. For many years
j\l the late .loiui Hamlin was a loading spirit
in Peoria County. He was in many res-
|)ccts a remarkable man, and seemed es-
pecially qualified by nature for frontier life, having
the intrepid spirit, coolness in time of danger and
faculty of arriving quickly at a decision, which are
necessary to those who take their place in the van-
guard of civilization With these ti aits he com-
bined the keen observation, quick perceptions and
accurate judgment which made him a power in the
community as the population increased, and led to

his being selected to represent the peo|)le in the
House of Representatives and the State Senate.

Mr. Hamlin was a native of AVilbraham, Mass.,
born there October 25, 1800, and in early manhood
liecamc a trader at Ft. Clark, now Peoria, III. He
went on trading expeditions northward and west-
ward, visiting many localities which are now the
centers of advanced civilization, but which in those
early days were but rude hamlets, simple trading
posts, or a wilderness trodden only by the feet of
savages and an occasional white man. His treat-
ment of the red men uniformly secured their good-
will, and his house was always open to them, a lock
or key being unknown to his cabin. Many anight
Indians slept in the kitchen, one of the number
keeping watch while the others slumbered.

Upon one occasion while en route to Wisconsin
Mr. Hamlin was importuned, being a Justice of
the Peace, to marry a couple at Ft. Dearborn, now
Chicago. He said that he di.l not know the mar-
riage ceremony, but the prospective bridegrooni,
Dr. Wolcott, being prepared for such an emergency,
offered to teach him. This was done, and upon
his return trip Mr. Hamlin performed the rites
which m.ade Dr. Alexander Wolcott and Miss
Kinzie man and wife, this being the first marri.age
ceremony ever performed in what is now Chicago.
It occurred some time in the '20s, prior to the mar-
riage of Mr. Hamlin.

When Mr. Hamlin took a companion and lo-
cated permanently in Peoria there were but few
families here. Samuel, Josiah and Seth Fulton
and wife, John Dixon, who keiit the ferry, a lawyer
named Bogardus, Caldwell, the village blacksmith.
Dr. Longworthy and the families of Joe Smith,
and Aquillaand Alva Moffatt, were living in or near
the hamlet. The old fort was in a dilapidated
condition, but was rebuilt and strengthened during
the Black Hawk War, and became the rendezvous
of settlers during those troublous times. Mr. Ham-
lin was the first man to run a keel boat, bringing
supplies from St. Louis to this market. Subse-
quently he became part owner of a steamer which
plied the waters of the Illinois. He and a Mr.
Shari) built tiie first gristmill on the Kickapoo,
where they did grinding for all the country round
about. For many years after quitting the Indian

362

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

trade he kept a stock of diy -goods, and he is num-
bered among the first and most prominent mer-
chants of this locality.

Mr. Hamlin was a member of the House of Rep-
resentatives during the last session which was held
at Yandalia, and favored the removal of tlienapilal
to Peoria, but the "long nine" proved too much for
his party. He was also a member of the State
Senate when the first session was held in Spring-
field. His constituents found him ever alive to
their interests and tlie good of the county and
State, ever read}' to oppose fraud and corruption,
and to lift his voice and cast his ballot in favor of
the right. He was called hence March 29, 1875,
leaving behind liim in the hearts of men a record
more enduring than monumental stone or sculp-
tured bust. He left to his widow a comfortable
estate.

Among the old settlers still living, few have been
here longer or have witnessed more of the marked
growth of this beautiful city tlian Mrs. John Ham-
lin. She is now an octogenarian, having been born
in Athens County, Ohio, January 10, 1808, and
iiaving come here the bride of our subject in 1829.
Her maiden name was Cynthia A. Johnson, and at
tlie time of her marriage she was living in Spring-
field, 111. Her wedding trip was by buggy from
that village to Ft. Clark.

Mrs. Hamlin delights to relate the ex[ieriences
of the ohlen times, and when anyone suggests that
she must have undergone many hardships, She
cheerfully responds, ''No, indeed, the happiest
times of my life were when I was living in a cabin,
and my husband was engaged as a trader, largely'
with the Indians." "Why," says she, "we used to
gather great quantities of wild honey, wild fruits
abounded on every hand, and Indians brought
venison, wild turkej- and various other articles
which they gladlj' exchanged for trinkets, of which
they were very proud."

Mrs. Hamlin occupies the homestead on the cor-
ner of Pennsylvania Avenue and Knoxville Road.
Slie is a member and ardent supporter of tlie New
Jerusalem or Swedenborgian Church, as is her for-
mer ward, Mrs. Van Buskirk. with whom she makes
her liome. Mrs. Hamlin and her husband look
four children, whom the}' reared to years of ma-

turity and all of whom are married. As one who
shared in the toils and privations of pioneer life,
and who was ever ready to lend a helping hand to
those about her. as well as for the character ^hicli
is the crowning glory of womanhood, Mrs. HaTnlin
deserves and receives the hearty respect of all to
whom she is known. Her many friends will be
pleased to notice her portrait, in company with
that of her late husband, on another page of this
volume.

p' A DOCK P. STEVENS. Trivoli Township
has not within Us limits a more skillful,
enterprising or successful farmer than our
subject, who has on section 4, a model farm and
one of the pleasantest homes in this locality. He
was born on this farm April 25, 1851, being a son
of Joseph F. Stevens, a pioneer of this county, who
was born near Danbury, Conn. (For ancestry see
Onslow S. Stevens' sketch on another page of this
work.)

Our subject w.is the third child in a family of
eight children and passed his early days on tfie
old homestead. He was well-educated, attend-
ing the publrc schools, and for a year was a
student in the Farmington High School. He had
a natural aptitude for farming, and even when a
boy worked early and late and when only fifteen
years old took charge of things and successfully
engaged in raising hogs and horses, and by the
time he was twenty-one years old, he owned seven
horses. He remained at home with his father un-
til he was twenty-two years old, and then married
and establislied a home of his own. He had a one
hundred and twenty acre farm on sections 3 and
4, and he worked actively at its improvement and
in raising grain and stock. He built a house on the
ridge and put a stone wall of one hundred feet
around the yard, planted orchards and groves and
had it nicely improved. In November, 1879, his
wife died and ids home was then broken up as he
did not care to stay there amid its sad associations,
and he sold his farm and went "West.

AVe next hear of him in Pawnee County, Neb.
in a store in Pawnee City. In 1880 he pushed

POUrUAl'l' AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

363

further westward, and penetrated to Furnace
Countv, and in the town of AVilsonville made a
homestead claim of one hundn d and sixty acres
of land, and also took up a timber claim for a like
amount. lie located there on an abandoned claim
in a sod liouse. lie broke the soil and hail some
trees set out the first year and liien sold his
timber claim and six months later pre-empted a
homestead, buying it for §200. He fenced it, then
rented the one hundred and sist}' acres and en-
gaged as a carpenter with Reynold Bros., con-
tractors and builders on the Burlington, Missouri
and AVcslcrn Railroad, extending from Culbert-
son --to Denver. 'They sent hira out with three
men and be |)ul in the first four culverts that were
built on the road in the State of Colorado. He
was thus engaged until December, 1880, and then
returned to Nebraska and secured the title of bis
claim in January, 1881.

Mr. Stevens came home after that, remained
here one season and built his present barn, a suli-
stanlial building 30x56 feet in dimensions, and
well adapted to its purposes.

Ill the spi'ing of 1882, Mr. Stevens again went
West, and in Golden, Col., accepted a position as a
clerk in a grocery store, and was there for nine
months, lie then went into business as a grocer
with cx-Connty Treasurer Dollison. They bought
out a stock of goods and conducted business very
successfully under the (inn name of Dollison &
Stevens the ensuing three years. During that time
the bank in which our subject h.ad placed ^900 of
his money, iM'canie insolvent and he lost it all. lie
then sold his farm for 11,000 and continued in the
grocery and general merchandise business until
December, 1885. He also interested himself in min-
ing and prosi)ected to some extent and staked a
claim. On .account of his father's ill health, he
then sold his store for $4,000 and returning home
bought eighty acres of the old homestead, Trivoli
Township. Since then he has been actively en-
gaged in its improvement, and has it well tiled
and fenced, and has here a large and conveniently
arranged house, which he erected and moved into
in 1889. He has substantial out buildings, a wind-
mill, tank etc., and good machinery and everything
convenient for carrying on farming. He has a

tine arrangement for raising and feeding boss,
making a siiecialty of that branch and sending two
car-loads of high grade Poland-Chinas to market
every year. He has several horses for general pur-
poses, employing two teams on his farm, and he
also has some cattle. His grounds are beautifully
adorned by groves, and one elm tree set out b3' his
father in 1814, is now about twelve feet in girth.
He has considerable fruit on the place and has
set out a fine orchard.

Our subject has been twice married. He was
lirst married in this township in 1873, to Bliss
Lizzie Orton, a daughter of Dennis Orton, who
was an early settler and still resides here, having
retired from active life. C)nr subject has one
daughter, Gertrude E., by his first marriage, who
lives with him. His second marriage which took
place in January, 1887, was to Miss Hattic Rodgers,
who was born in Trivoli Township, and is a daugh-
ter of William Rodgers, who was born and reared
here and is engaged in farming and stock-raising,
having a one hundred ,acie farm in this township.
Mr. and Mrs. Stevens have two children: Millie
and Ernest.

Our subject has had a wide and varied exper-
ience in life and has profltcil by it. He is at pres-
ent serving his second term .as Township School
Trustee. He has been a membei of the Ancient
Free and Acce()led IM.asons at Farmington, since
1882. He is [irominent in political circles as one
of the most intelligent members of the Democratic
party in this vicinity, and while in Golden was a
delegate to a county convention.

^ -^-^ <^

OSEPH DOl'BET is classed among the prom-
inent members of the farming community to
whom this county owes much for its present
high position .as a wealthy and highl3' im-
proved section of the countiy. He is one of the
foremost farmers and greatest land owners of
Limestone Townshii?, where he has a well-devel-
oped farm, that is one of the best in its neighbor-
hood in all its appointments.

Our subject is a son of Joseph Doubet, who was

364

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

iu bis day one of the most prominent and active
pioneers in tliis county. He was born in France
and received a tine education in the fair land of
his nativity. He emigrated to this country in an
early day of its settlement, accompanied b}- his
family and settled in Kiekapoo Township, about
one and one-half miles north of where our subject
now Jives. A man of his force of character and
ability necessaril}- was pushed to the fiont, and we
find him taking quite a conspicuous part in the po-
litical and public life of the place. He was at one
time Mayor in Belford, France, and he was among
the leading Democrats of the vicinitv, and held
man}- offices. He was very much interested in the
politics of his adopted countrj- and at one time
swam the Kiekapoo Creek at the risk of his life that
he might cast his vote for a favorite candidate. His
death here in 1857, was a severe blow to the inter-
ests of the community.

The subject of this biography was born in France
near Belford, in 1839, and was but four years old
when his parents brought him to the wilds of Peo-
ria County, and here he was reared to manhood
in their pioneer home. At the time of his coming
here this was the home of the Kiekapoo tribe and
Indians were more frequent than whites. He re-
ceived no schooling except from au old lad^- by
the name of Pennington, who taught a school on
Sundaj' for the benefit of the children of the
settlers, who took a great interest in the work.
Besides the instruction he thus received his
school days could well be included in three
months. In 1851 he took upon himself the du-
ties and obligations of wedded life by his marriage
in that year to Mary Ann. daughter of Nicholas
and Mary Ann (Smith) Marie. Tliej' were both
of French birth and died when she was verj'
3-oung, after coming to this count}-. They had set-
tled here the j'ear after Mr. Doubet came, and
Mrs. Doubet was reared near her future husband.

Mr. Doubet bought his farm in Limestone
Township, subject to a debt of §15,000, and dur-
ing the war both he and his wife worked ver}-
hard almost day and night and ra.ade much money,
and in time had the four hundred and eighty
acres of land free from incumbrance. Mr. Doubet's
prosperity continued and he ad led to his farm

until he now possesses six hundred acres of as fine
land as any in the State, all under excellent im-
provement.

Our subject and his wife have eleven children
living: Joseph, a farmer of Limestone, who is mar-
ried and has eight children ; Mary, wife of John
Bo3-er. who lives near her father; Peter, who is
married and has five children; Maliiida. widow
of Thomas Fahey of Limestone Township, and the
mother of four children; Eliza, wife of Daniel
Hanlou. and the mother of six children; Julia, the
next in order; Cicel}', the wife of ISenjaraiu Dorn-
bus; Nicholas, at home; Henrj-, the next in order;
Ida. the wife of William Mitchell: Eddie, at heme.
The greatest grief of the wedded life of Mr. and
Mrs. Doubet has been in the death of their daugh-
ter Emma, who was next to Henry in order of
birth, and died at the age of twelve years.

-Mr. Doubet follows in his father's footsteps in
regard to his political alHliations and is a strong
Democrat. He is a member of the Catholic Church
at Kiekapoo, but takes no active part in church
matters. Having spent the most of his life in the
Lnited States and reared under the institutions of
this Government he knows no other lionie and his
patriotism recognizes no other country. He oc-
cupies a substantial place among the citizens of his
township and his sturdy enterprise, great labor
and shrewd financial tact, have been prominent
factors in its growth.

-^^^^

ACOK DAKST. There are times when to be
unsuccessful seems almost impossible, so fa-
vorable are the surroundings, and little
merit accrues to the winner in such a feeble
contest. But when reverses that seem insurmount-
able to many men, are met and surmounted, serving
but to stimulate the worker to greater efforts, a
deep interest attaches to the winner of the prize
and honor is given him b}" all men. A study of
the manners and methods by which circumstances
are bent to the ultimate rewarding of persistent
shrewdness and industry, proves both interesting
and profitable. It would be impossible in the lim-

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

365

its of a sketch like tbis to more than hint at the
means by wliich the gentleman ahove named has
reached tiie high station lie fills among the moneyed
men of Peoria. The biographical writer can only
siiy tliat ho has overcome difficnlties that would
have disli('art?ned many men and although losing
as high as 5!300,000 at " one fell swoop." he has
steadfastly persisted in the attem()t to win fortune
and now rejoices in the possession of a handsome
one reaching much above the half million.

Some two hundred 3-cavs ago the first Darst came
to America, the family having prior to that time
been known only in (Jermany. .lacob Darst, Sr.,
was horn in Virginia and in that State Elizabetli
Tarr was also born. This coniile became man and
wife and reared eight children, two of whom are
now living. They are the subject of this sketch,
and an older brother. Eli, who lives in Ouray, Col.
The father died in Ohio about 183G. In Meigs
County, of that State, Jacob Darst, Jr., was born
September 10, 1815. His early life was passed in
the manner usual to farmers' sons, his time being
alternated between attendance at the schools of the
period and the labors in which his increasing
strength would permit him to participate.

In June, 1835, he came to Peoria and entered
the general merchandise establishment of Aquilla
Ahrensas a clerk, a year later going to Galena where
he engaged in lead mining. After spending two
years in that arduous occup.ation he returned to
Peoria and began buying and selling land. On a
quarter section that he bought for $5 per acre be
opened a coal niine which proved profitable. A
short time afterward he went to boating with Mr.
Ahrens, taking flatboats down to Natchez, Miss.,
laden with the products of this region which he
exchanged for those raised along the route. On
one occasion when he had about ^4,000 worth of
produce to be marketed, a tornado struck him at
Natchez and his stock in trade was entirely de-
stroyed, lie reached lii>nie with 113.50 in his
pocket but ready for another start in life, confident
that somewhere and somehow success awaited him.
Returning to the business of coal mining, Mr.
Darst made about ij^ 1 5.000 in five years and keeping
his capital chiefiy invested in real estate which he
bought and sold, he had in a short time gained

$35,000 in such operations. .Since then he has
given his attention entirely to dealing in real estate
and while sometimes meeting reverses in the busi-
ness, he has been successful on the whole as his
financial status proves. The appreciation of his
property is rapid, daring the last year the .advance
having been fully §200,000. His ple.asant home,
on North Monroe and Fayette Streets, is furnished in
a style consonant with the wealth and taste of the
inmates, woman's refining influence being visible
in its adornments.

Mr. Darst has been twice niarried. His first wife
was Elizabeth Daughert}', with whom he was uniteil
in 1850, and lived happil}' until 18G5, when she
breathed her last. She was the mother of ten
children, three of whom survive. They are Ed-
win J., and William, both of whom live in Omaha,
Neb., and Mrs. C.asej', wife of E. A. Case3', a law-
3-er in Chicago. In 1867 Mr. Darst married Mrs.
Helen R. Leonard, who now presides over his home
and enjo^-s with him the comforts and luxuries l\v
which they are surrounded. By the last marriage
he has one child. Mrs. Lura Barnard, wife of J. C.
Barnard, a law^-er practicing in Omaha, Neb., where
the}' reside. INIr. Darst belongs to the Masonic
fraternity' in which he has progressed to the thirty-
second degree. Politically Mr. Darst is a Repub-
lican and during the war was a stanch L'nion man.

\f?OSEPII ARMSTRONG. It would be hard
to find, at least within the limits of Prince-
ville Township, a gentleman more liighl>'
respected than the one above named, who
has been prominently identified with the agricul-
tural and public labors of this vicinitj- for many
j'ears. He possesses sound judgment, ripe intelli-
gence and an accommodating spirit, which qualities
have made him useful to his fellow men and have
secured for him a comfortable fortune. His grand-
father, James Armstrong, was a teamster in the
Revolution and at its close settled in Washington
County, Pa., there operated a farm and reared his
family.

The father of our subject was born in the county

366

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

named, and wLlmi at a suitable age learned tiie
trade of a blacksmith. In 1837. lie began farming
fifteen miles from the Ohio River in his native
count3', where he continued his agricultural labors
until his death. In polities he was a Democrat and
in religion a Presbyterian. He married Mar_y,
daughter of James McCoy, who was born in Ohio
County. W. Va. Her father, a native of the North
of Ireland, died in that county. The mother of
our subject came to Illinois during her later years
and died in Brimfleld of typhoid fever.

The record of the parental family is as follows:
The first-born is the subject of this sketch ; James
died in Missouri; Margaret lives in Princeville
Township; Mrs. Eliza Whithington died in McDon-
ongh County; Mary lives in Princeville Township,
this county ; tiie home of John is in Nodaw.ay County.
Mo. ; Ebenezer, wlio now lives in Pawnee, Rock
County. Kan., joined Company K, Eighty-sixth
Illinois Infantry in August, 1862, and was mustered
out at the close of the war as surgeon's clerk; "Will-
iam and an infant unnamed are dece.ised.

The gentleman of whom we write was born in
Claysville, Washington County, Pa., April 17, 1820.
learned the rudiments of farming at his home and
acquired a common-school education under the sub-
scription method. Upon reaching his majority he
went to Tiidelphia, Ohio County, AV. A'a., where
he was eni|)loyed in his uncle's mill about three
j-ears. He became a thorough and practical miller,
and during the nine subsequent years managed a
mill for a wealthy old lady on the National road
on Big Wheeling Creek, near IIenr_v Clay's monu-
ment. There he remained until ISoS when he de-
termined to come West.

Mr. Armstrong journeyed b}* boat to Cincinnati,
Ohio, thence bj- rail to Terre Haute, Ind., and b3'
stage to Springfield, 111. Thence the railrfjad con-
ve^ed him to Naples and a boat to Peoria, in which
neighborhood he determined to remain although
it had been his original intention to~go to Iowa. '
The appearance of the country satisfied him re-
garding the value of land here and he purchased
his present home farm of one hundred and sixty
acres on section 10, Princeville Township. He
then returned to his work in the mill, making a [
permanent removal to Illinois in 1855. His goods i

wt re shipped from Wheeling, and he drove through,
his journey consuming one month of the beautiful
fall weather. Locating on the raw prairie, he broke
the soil and gradually placed bis farm under good
improvement and tillage.

Mr. Armstrong is one of the earliest settlers in
that part of the county where he resides, and many
an interesting tale he can tell of the days when
wild game was plentiful, settlers few and the fron-
tiersman had need of much persistence and hoiie-
fulne's to encourage him in his efforts. His home
farm is the best in the vicinity, being furnished
witii a fine orchard and all the improvements which
will add to the convenience and comfort of the
faraih'. He now owns over six hundred and forty
.acres in tha township and eighty acres in Sedgwick
County, Kan., for which he has paid prices ranging
from ^6.25 to §75 per acre. His land is adapted
for both grain and stock-raising and he formerly
fed large numbers of cattle and hogs. He now
rents all his land having five tenant houses upon it.

The lady who for many years shared in the jo3's
and sorrows of ^Ir. Armstrong' was a native of tlie
same count}' as himself and known in her maiden-
hooil as Miss Martha McNeal. Her father, Josejih
McXeal, was a school teacher and she was well in-
structed iu the usual branches of sludj- and in
womanly' accomplishments. She became the wife
of our subject March 10. 1810, and was removed
by death March 3, 1877. The famil}- comprises
ten children: Mai-y E., Joseph, James, Margaret L.,
Isabelle, Ellen T., William R., Rosa L.. Martha E.
and Xancy J. Mary married Allen McMillen, of
Sedgwick County, Kan.; Joseph died at his home,
June 7, 1879; Jarnes is farming iu Princeville
Township; Margaret lives in Fremont County,
Iowa, being the wife of James Parish; Isabellc,
who died in Fremont County, Iowa. August II,
1886, was the first wife of James Parish; Ellen
married Jackson Liverton, of Princeville Town-
ship; William R. is farming here; Nancj* married
Charles Blank, a farmer of this township. The
other children are still with their father.

Mr. Armstrong has served as Justice of the
Peace twenty^-five years. During that time he was
also elcctrd Supervisor, serving eighteen out of
twentj' con.secutive \"ears. He was Chairman of

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

3C7

the Board of Supervisors several years and held a
position upon it longer thai\ any previous inenni-
hent. He was i)laced upon the eommittee to ob-
tain plans for the courthouse and then upon the
Building Committee. For many years he served
as School Director. It will thus be seen that his
fellow citizens have recognized his ability and in-
tegrity of character, and tliat he has been honored
with their confidence in positions of trust. He is
a stanch Democrat, has served as delegate to State
conventions, and has likewise been juryman in
the United States and minor courts. Nine j^ears
since he resigned from the position of Supervisor,
feeling that his long years of usefulness entitle him
to rest.

NDRKW J. BENNETT, a retired farmer,
living in a very pleasant and comfortable
it home on Fourth Street, Chillicothe, has
(^J pursued his calling to a successful issue,

has .accumulated a competency, and is numbered
amongst our substantial well-to-do citizens.

He retired from active life about a 3'ear ago,
having been engaged in agricultural pursuits in
Akron Township for tliirteen 3-ears prior to that
time. Ho came to Illinois in 18.56, settling first in
this county, but after his marriage went to Saratoga
Township, iMarsiiall County, and lived there for
six years. At the expiration of that time he re-
turned and has since made his home in Peoria
County, devotiuu his time to farming and stock-
raisi'ig.

Mr. Bennett is a native of New York, the city
of Troy his birthplace and February 28, 1835, the
date of his birth. His father, Elisha Bennett, was
,ilso a native of New York, born in Ren.sselaor
County, where he was reared to the life of a farmer.
He was there married to Miss Betsey Chapman, who
was also born and reared in Rensselaer County, and
they established their home in Stephen Township,
where the^' lived until middle age, when tliPy came
as far westward as Martinsburg, Ind., and there the
wife and mother died when she was about fifty
years old. Elisha Bennett subsequently returned
to iiis native county, was there married a second

time, and died when he was fift3'-five years old.
One child was horn of this marriage. He was a
sagacious, practical farmer, and was a good, np-
riglit man.

The subject of this biographical review is the
youngest of a family of three sons and six daugh-
ters, five of whom are vet living; all are married
and settled in life and two reside in Illinois, the re-
mainder still living in New York State. Our sub-
ject grew to manhood in his native town, and was
educated in its public schools. He came from the're
to this State, and in Radnor Townshi|). tliis county,
found a wife m the person of Miss Eliza Seely.
She is a woman of fine character and possesses
tliose pleasantly womanly qualities that make her
well liked by all who come in contact with her.
She is a devoted member of the Methodist Episco-
pal Church an<l is one of its active workers. Mrs.
Bennett was born in Stark County, 111., January
25, 1840, to Samuel and Delia (Richman) Seely,
natives of New York State. When they were
j'ouug they had acconii)anicd their parents to In-
diana and had there grown to maturity and were
there married in Allensville. They continued to
live in that State some years, but after the birth
of their first child, 'when he was about three years
of age, they came to Illinois, and settled near
Mossville, this county. Later they moved to the
vicinity of Wyoming, in Stark County, and there
tliev carried on farming for some years. In 1842,
they came back to Peoria County, and purchased
a farm in Radnor Township, where the^^ spent the
rest of their lives, Mrs. Seelj' dying ,ranuar3' 25,
1863, at the age of fifty-eight years; Mr. Seely
dying February 20, 1869, at the age of sixtj^-soven
years. They were both members of the Methodist
Episcopal Church and were strong in the faith.
j\Irs. Bennett was their next youngest child, they
being the parents of eight children, seven of whom
lived to maturity, five of them still living and all
married. Mrs. Bennett was quite 3"oung when her
parents came to Peoria County, and here she w.is
reared and educated.

Mr. Bennett in his career as a farmer, displayed
an active wide-awake tem|ieraraent, forethought,
and an excellent capacity for shrewdly managing
his affairs to the best advantage, and these trails

368

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

have been the means of his secui-ino- a desirable in-
come and obtaining his cozy liorae. As a loyal
citizen should, he interests himself in national af-
airs and is identified with the Democratic party.

yV'ESTON R. GALES. This gentleman iias
/ secured a satisfactory degree of worldly
'^^ success bj' reason of his personal integrity
and the exercise of unmistakable business abilitj*.
He possesses the well-bred manners so characteristic
of those born in the Southern States, and having
excellent conversational powers is able to present
the subject which he desires to bring to one's no-
tice, with a degree of tact which makes his com-
panionshi|> agreeable and gives him a success not
met with by all who are in the same line of busi-
ness. He has been located in Peoria since 1887,
and now has charge of the National Accident As-
sociation in the State, which gives bim a wide field
of labor.

Mr. Gales is descended from the early settlers of
"North Carolina and is therefore of remote English
ancestry. His parents were Seatou and Mary
(Compton) Gales, both natives of the same State
and the father was engaged in editorial work in
Raleigh. That citv was the birthplace of our sub-
ject, who, as he grew to manhood, attended private
schools there, among them being the Male Acad-
emy. He left school when sixteen years old and
embarked in business in New York City, finding
employment with a noted firm of wholesale hard-
ware dealers. lie continued there until 1821, when
he returned to his native State and was elected to
a clerkship in the State Legislature.

Mr. Gales retained that position until elected by
the legislature to the office of Clerk of the Criminal
Court of Wake County, the duties of which posi-
tion he continued to discharge until by a change in
the judicial system the court was abolished. Re-
embarking in a business career, he was connected
with the tobacco interests for some time, then on-
gaged in the insurance work in Cincinnati, Ohio.
P^'om that city he removed to Peoria at the date
before mentioned, to take charge of the Peoiia

District of the Prudential Insurance Comi)an\',\vith
which he was engagc() in Cincinnati. From that
position he was finally called to take charge of the
State work of the Association with which he is no.w
laboring.

In 1878, Mr. Gales and Miss Anna Cowan Strong
were joined in holy wedlock. The bride is a native
of the same city in which her husband opened his
eyes to the light, is intelligent, accomplished and
well-bred, capable of gracefully filling an3' position
to which she might be called. Mr. and Mrs. Gales
have one child — Anna Cowan, a bright miss now
ten 3' ears old.

Mr. (rales is an active member of the Reformed
Episcopal Church and Superintendent of Bacon
Mission, which was established about two j-ears
ago, having for its object to reach the unsaved that
the ordinary means of Christian work aie not
adapted for. The life of the Mission and its suc-
cess, is due to the Christian energy of those who
are connected with the Bible Class of the church.
Meetings are held bi-weekly, with a Sunday-school
in connection therewith, and an industrial school in
session except during the summer months.

ARCUS WHITING, M.D. Although not
H yet thirty j'ears of age, Dr. Whiting has

an excellent standing in tlie profession
which he has chosen, and is regarded by
j his fellow-citizens as an honor to the citj' in which
he has made his home. He came to Peoria immed-
iately aftcr-his graduation and during the few 3-ears
which have elapsed since that time he has built up
a good practice 1)3' his pleasing personal traits and
his skill in his chosen work. His natural acumen
added to the tiiorough instruction which he re-
ceived, makes him judicious in the use of Thera-
peutical agents, and his desii'e to reacii tiie higliest
position possible keeps him on the alert to add to
his knowledge by observation and study.

Dr. Whiting was born in La Fa3-ette Count3',
Mo., August 22. 18G0, and being a son of a min-
ister, received his education in various schools as
his father was called from place to place. His

,ff

^^' .^^x.

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

371

father, the Rev. C'hiirles Whiting, D. D., is now in
charge of the Baptist Church in Canton wliere he
has been for tlie ptist twelve years. His instruc-
tion was more serviceable to liis son than all others
he received, as it inspired him ivith the love of
learning as well as stored his mind with facts and
principles. When eighteen years old young Whit-
ing began reading medicine with Drs. Sutton and
Fleming in Canton, and he afterward entered
Rush Medical College in Chicago, from which he
was graduated in 1 883.

The social and benevolent nature of our subject
has led him to identify himself with various or-
ganizations in the principles of which he concurs.
He is a Mason, a member of the Knight ot Pythias,
also of the Select Knights of the Associated Or-
der of United Workmen, the Knights and Ladies
of Honor, the Modern Woodmen and the Red-
Men. His political adherence is given to the
Democratic party. For three years he has held
the position of Hcaltli Officer for Peoria.

The mental ability and culture and the womanly
graces and accomplishments of Miss Mattie Gartli-
waite, daughter of Luther and Rosa Garthwaitc,
of Indianapolis, Ind., won the regard of the 3'oung
[)!iysician and his feeling being reciprocated they
were united in marriage January 24, 1888. A
daughter — Ethel Lee — adds her infantile gr.ace to
the charms of home.

ENRY II. FAHNESTOCK, of the firm of
Oakford & Fahnestock, who carrj' on a
wholesale grocery business in Peoria, was
born in this county June 14, 1838. He is
a son of Jacob and Maria (Harmon) Fahnestock,
natives of Pennsylvania, whence they came to the
Prairie State in 1834. In the Keystone State
Jacob Fahnestock had been in the mercantile bus-
iness but after coming to Peoria Count}- he fol-
lowed farming.

The subject of this brief sketch began to learn
the trade of a cooper at the age of sixteen j'ears,
and wiien twenty one years old took charge of a

small hotel and a cooper shop in Kingston. He
carried on these enterprises tlirce years, after
whicii he entered tiie em[)loy of the Kingston
Jlincs Coal Company, keeinng books and doing
other general work for them two years. He next
embarked in a hay speculation iu McLean County
which "swept the platter clean." His next vent-
ure was to embark in the hotel business with a
brother-in-law, J. W. Robbins, but he abandoned
the hotel a year later to become book-keeper for
A. & J. Schardzki.

After remaining iu their emploj' a 3'ear and a
half he began traveling for (libson & Woodbury,
some eighteen months later taking up a similar
line of work for S. H. Tiiompson & Co., continu-
ing so employed until 1871. He then entered the
establishment of Henry & Oakford, as a partner,
the firm becoming Henry, Oakford & F'ahnestock.
On New Year's Day, 1881, he bought out the in-
terest of the senior member of the firm, and the
l)usiness since tiiat time has been continued under
the style of Oakford & Fahnestock.

An important step in the life of our subject
transpired in 1859, when lie was united in mar-
riage with Miss Frances E. Hill of this city. The
wisdom of his choice has been abundantly demon-
strated b}' the happiness of the home. Tiie union
has been blessed by the birth of two children — Lil-
lie L. and Howard R., both of whom are still at
home cheering their parents by their presence.

Mr. Fahnestock is a believer in and a supporter
of the principles of the Republican party. He is a
member of the Masonic fraternity, his name being
enrolled in Eddj' Lodge, No. 357, Kingston Mines.
Mr. Fahnestock is regarded as a man of honor,
good business qualities and kindliness in social re-
lations, and .IS a representative citizen of Peoria
we present his portrait oh another page.

i^ll^i

AKFORD & FAHNESTOCK. The large
and extensive business of the mercantile es-
tablishment of OakfOid & Fahnestock, the
leading merchants of Peoria, was started January 1,
1868, by Joseph F. Henry, Aaron S. Oakford and

372

PORTRAIT AND BIOGRAPHICAL ALBUM.

George Wright, under the Ann name of J. F.
Ilenr}- & Co.. doing an extensive retail business
on North Washington Street, near Main .Street.

January 1, 1870, Messrs. Henry and Oakford
bought out Mr. Wright's interest, the firm name
being changed to Henry & Oakfo/d. The3' en-
larged the retail trade of the houfe, and with char-
.•icteristic enterprise, added a wholesale department.
From very sm.ill beginnings, the wholesale trade
steadilj- grew and constantly required an increas-
ing amount of capital to carr3' it on.

The 1st of January, 1872, Mr. H. H. Fahnestock
joined Messrs. Henry and Oakford in the business,
and once again the firm name was changed, be-
coming Henry. Oakford & Fahnestock. Thej'
moved to South AVashington Street, near Liberty-,
and from that date confined themselves exclu-
sively to the wholesale trade. In 1874 Mr. C. J.
Ofif was admitted into the firm, and retired in
1877.

More room was needed to carrj- on the exten-
sive business that the firm controlled, and in 1875,
it moved into a large store below Liberty Street,
on Washington Street. In a few years the busi-
ness had reached such enormous proportions that
the firm was again forced to move, and in 1877
Easton's Commercial Block was built expressl}'
for it.

In Januarj-, 1881, Mr. Henry's interest was pur-
chased by the present members of the firm. The
trade of this bouse advanced wonderfully under
the new management, increasing so rapidly that, in
addition to the Easton Block, thej' used a ware-
house of equal size, extending from Commercial to
Water Street. Even this amount of room did not
afford tiie facilities necessarj- for the operations of
so large a business, and in 1887 Messrs Oakford
and Fahnestock became the owners of the building
now occupied bj' them. This is a mammoth, four-
story warehouse, on the corner of Liberty and
Commercial Streets, and fronting on Washington
Street. It is handsomel}' fitted up, and well-ap-
pointed in every particular, with fine offices and
salesrooms, extending to Washington Street, and
the establishment throughout is considered one of
the finest in the State. Adjoining, on Washington
Street, are the extensive coflfee and spice mills op-

erated b}- the firm. The house employes ten trav-
eling salesmen, and a large force of clerks and
other employes, to assist in conducting their im-
mense business, which extends throughout Illinois
and Iowa, and amounts to about $1,500,000 a
year.

>jEORGE LANE. This gentleman is pleas-
antly located in Trivoli Township, owning
%~^ fifty acres on section 19, and another tract
of one hundred and sixtj^ acres on sections 19 and
30. In addition to his own property, he rents two
hundred and five acres, operating therefore four
hundred and fifteen acres. He has set out one
hundred orchard trees on his home place, has
fenced and otherwise improved it, erecting in 1888
a barn 36x48 feet, and in 1890 another 36x37 feet.
The land is ferti